Experimental Group Research Articles

Alveolar Bone Graft Supplemented With Stromal Vascular Fraction in Patients With Permanent Dentition: A Randomized Study.

To evaluate bone development in patients with alveolar clefts and permanent dentition treated with alveolar bone graft supplemented with stromal vascular fraction (SVF). Clinical, prospective, randomized. Single tertiary care institution. Eighteen participants with unilateral alveolar cleft and permanent dentition were included. Patients with other comorbidities were excluded. The control group underwent alveolar bone grafting (ABG) using iliac crest bone, while the experimental group underwent the same treatment, supplemented with SVF. Adipose tissue was collected by abdominal liposuction, and the SVF was processed using mechanical methods (decantation, microfragmentation, and filtration). Bone formation and bone graft integration rate in alveolar cleft at 6 months postsurgery using 3-dimensional tomographic methods and density measurements. The amount of bone graft correlated with an improvement in the relationship between the cleft and noncleft sides (R = 0.78, P < .001) and an improvement in alveolar cleft density (R = 0.69, P = .005), but did not correlate with the graft integration rate. The experimental group showed larger cleft sizes (0.83 × 1.74 cm3, P = .021) and older patients (17.35 × 27.6 years, P = .002), and did not differ in terms of bone development variables when compared to the control group. ABG supplemented with SVF showed statistically similar bone development results, but with a better trend than conventional ABG. Additionally, the studied groups had asymmetric pre-existing characteristics, with greater severity in the experimental group. A larger study will be necessary to mitigate preoperative characteristic differences and to more accurately compare the results between the methods.

Enhancing reading comprehension in Araling Panlipunan of Grade 5 learners through differentiated instruction

The lack of instructional resources and reading comprehension skills in Araling Panlipunan education resulted in significant learning gaps among elementary-grade students. This study aimed to test the effectiveness of differentiated instruction in closing these gaps in Araling Panlipunan among fifth-grade students. The experimental sampling method research design was utilized through tutorial classes where the respondents received differentiated instruction based on multiple intelligences and learning styles. Aiken's V coefficient method and Cronbach's alpha were used to ensure the validity and reliability of the research instrument. The validation process achieved a result of 0.92, which signifies high validity. Additionally, the reliability test used Cronbach's alpha, obtaining a score of 0.60. The results indicated significant progress in the experimental group's performance in reading comprehension skills after implementing differentiated instruction. The experimental group's mean post-test score, 16.10, suggests an outstanding level of performance. This underscores the effectiveness of differentiated instruction in enhancing reading comprehension skills among Grade 5 pupils. Hence, educators are encouraged to utilize differentiated instruction to enhance the learners' reading comprehension.

Immediate Effects of the Mandibular Muscle Energy Technique in Adults with Chronic Temporomandibular Disorder

Background/Objectives: Temporomandibular disorders affect the muscles used for chewing, the temporomandibular joint, and other related tissues, resulting in pain, limited mobility, and dysfunction of the masticatory muscles. Physical therapy plays a critical role in treatment. Manual therapy can trigger neurophysiological mechanisms that contribute to pain relief and a reduction in muscle activation. Evaluations of different manual therapy techniques are needed on this topic. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a specific manual therapy technique (the mandibular muscle energy technique) in adults with temporomandibular disorders. Methods: A randomized, parallel clinical trial was conducted, and 31 participants were recruited into an experimental group and 30 were recruited into a control group in order to analyze its effects on outcomes such as pain, pain threshold to pressure, mandibular mobility, and kinesiophobia. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were performed, followed by statistical analyses to verify the intra- and intergroup changes. Results: The results showed that the mandibular muscle energy technique produced positive effects with significant differences in the intra- and intergroup comparisons for pain threshold to pressure, mandibular mobility, and kinesiophobia, demonstrating its efficacy and safety as a treatment option for adults with temporomandibular disorders, with proven effects in the short term. Conclusions: The effects obtained and the absence of side effects showed that this technique can be integrated into multimodal treatment along with other types of interventions in patients with temporomandibular disorders.

Guided Inquiry Design (GID) as a Pedagogical Practice in Teaching Practical Research

This study determined the performance of grade 12 senior high school students in Practical Research using Guided Inquiry Design during the school year 2022-2023. The study utilized the quasi-experimental research design employing pretest and posttest in Practical Research 2 during the 4th quarter. The participants of this study were 55 Grade 12 students in HUMSS F for the experimental group and 51 students of in HUMSS G for the control group. Purposive sampling technique was utilized in determining the samples of the study. This study determined the performance of grade 12 senior high school students in Practical Research using Guided Inquiry Design during the school year 2022-2023. The study utilized the quasi-experimental research design employing pretest and posttest in Practical Research 2 during the 4th quarter. The participants of this study were 55 Grade 12 students in HUMSS F for the experimental group and 51 students of in HUMSS G for the control group. Purposive sampling technique was utilized in determining the samples of the study. This study concludes that the GID was effective in enhancing the students’ learning outcomes based on the increase of the posttest result and mean difference between the pre-test and posttest. The finding implies that the students in the experimental group who were exposed to GID performed better than the control group with no exposure to GID. It is important to apply GID in class because it develops pedagogical practices that scaffold students’ independent inquiry in learning. Since GID instruction is based on team teaching and inquiry circles, this greatly helps students collaborate with each other which is vital in producing a final output in Practical Research. The researcher will continue to apply GID in teaching to improve existing practices. The researcher recommends that the School Heads will encourage the teachers to use GID in teaching. Teachers can engage in team teaching and inquiry circles to ignite more the interest of the students. Other researchers can use the findings of this study as avenues for future research.

The promoting effect of biomechanics-based optimization strategies for preschool sports on mental health

Background: Early childhood is crucial for physical and mental development. Incorporating sports into preschool education fosters motor skills but also promotes emotional and psychological well-being. Traditional sports programs often focus on generalized physical activities, neglecting biomechanics to optimize movement efficiency and reduce injury risks. A holistic approach combining biomechanics with mental health promotion is needed. Aim: This study investigates the impact of biomechanics-based optimization strategies in preschool sports and their effects on mental health. Methods: The research involved 150 preschool children divided into two groups: One participating in a biomechanics-based sports program (experimental group) and the other in a conventional sports curriculum (control group) based on survey. The biomechanics-based program included an assessment of body biomechanics and movement efficiency, alongside pedagogical methods designed to enhance physical and mental development. SPSS software was used to analyze covariance (ANCOVA), independent samples t-tests, paired samples t-tests, chi-square tests, and regression analysis to evaluate the efficiency of the biomechanics-based program and its influence on the physical and mental health of preschool children. Results: Results showed significant physical improvements, including enhanced head angle, muscle strength, spinal flexibility, and balance control. The biomechanics-based program significantly improved children’s physical and mental health metrics, particularly motor skills, balance, and emotional regulation. These improvements contribute to better mental health outcomes by fostering a positive self-image (PSI), enhancing confidence (EC), and promoting emotional well-being (PEW). Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of integrating biomechanics-based strategies into preschool sports programs to support both physical and mental development.

Fa'āliyyatu Ṭarīqah at-Taqlīd Wa At-Taḥfīẓ Fīī Ta'allumi Mādati Tamrīn al-Lughah al-'Arabiyyah Fīīl Ma'had Al-Īmān Ponorogo

In the era of globalization, mastering Arabic has become increasingly important as an international language used in many religious, academic, and professional contexts. The background of this study centers around the growing importance of mastering Arabic in the era of globalization. There for, this study aims to enhance students' Arabic language skills at exploring the effectiveness of the mimicry and memorizing method in teaching of tamrin lughoh at the Al Iman boarding school. The problem is the low ability of students in speaking Arabic and lack of interest and motivation during the learning process in the classroom. The method used quantitative quasi-experimental method with pre-test and post-test design on two groups: experimental group and control group. The results showed a significant improvement in learning tamrin lughoh and improving students' language skills after the application of the Mim-Mem method. The mean score of the experimental group increased from 21.45 to 27.35, while the control group only increased from 21.25 to 26.45. This shows that the Mim-Mem method is effective in learning tamrin lughoh and improving students' language skills. Researchers suggest that future research places more emphasis on implementation and focuses on increasing the achievement of the values and ultimate goals of good Arabic language learning.

Raman Spectroscopy Monitoring of Duck Egg Brining Process

Salted duck eggs are a popular food in China and a key ingredient in pastries such as mooncakes, valued for their unique flavors. In this study, we examined the influence of brining processes on duck eggs, focusing on salt concentration and the effect of added wine. Four experimental groups were established: 18% salt, 25% salt, and 18% or 25% salt with added wine. The results from egg yolks suggest that increasing the salt concentration or adding 10% wine (53% alcohol) accelerates the brining process, while the Raman spectra of egg whites remain remarkably stable throughout brining. Our findings suggest that the traditional 30-day brining period can be reduced to 20–25 days with a higher salt concentration or the addition of wine, after which the egg yolk structure becomes largely stable.

Effects of Facial Recognition and Text Semantic Recognition on Affective Tutoring System

Facial recognition is the fastest method to detect emotions, and it can be combined with text semantic recognition to increase the accuracy of emotion detection. Emotions and creativity have often been discussed in recent years. A student will be interested in learning as long as he or she enjoys learning. Mind mapping is an active and simultaneous use of the left and right brains to stimulate the creativity and imagination of the learner, which is complementary to positive emotion. This study constructed an affective adaptive learning system that combines text emotions and facial clues in chatbot conversations to understand the emotional responses of learners during the learning process. The system is tailored to accommodate diverse learners through modules of varying difficulty scales, the incorporation of mind maps to support teaching and learning, and the implementation of asynchronous online discussion forums for discourse and feedback on course-related topics. The results revealed significant differences in critical thinking, reflective thinking, and problem-solving skills between the experimental and control groups, and students in the experimental group outperformed those in the control group on the creation of mind maps.

Preoperative Physiotherapy Effects on Hand Function and Quality of Life in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: 3 – & 6 – month randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Introduction Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent upper limb mononeuropathy that often leads to delayed surgical intervention, resulting in prolonged symptoms and reduced quality of life; Aim To describe the effect of a three-session treatment involving nerve mechanical interface mobilization and self-mobilization combined with education in hand function, symptoms, and quality of life of pre-surgical CTS patients at 3 and 6-months follow-ups; 3) A randomized clinical trial was performed in 42 preoperative CTS patients. Patients were randomized into an experimental group, receiving a three-session intervention of education, diacutaneous fibrolysis, and self-mobilization, or a control group receiving standard care. Primary outcomes included the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, while secondary outcomes assessed paresthesia, mechanosensitivity of the median nerve, mechanical threshold with the Semmes Weinstein monofilament, pinch strength, and quality of life, with the short-form-36 & EuroQol-5D; Results The cohort were predominantly severe CTS patients with associated comorbidities. Statistical improvements were shown for experimental group compared to control group in DASH at 6-month follow-up (p = 0.035; η2 = 0.12). Paraesthesia intensity, mechanosensitivity, and quality of life were also significantly improved in the experimental group compared to control group at both 3- and 6-months (p < 0.05). The same occurred for pinch strength at 6 months (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in mechanical threshold (p > 0.05); 5) The treatment effectively improved hand function, symptoms, and quality of life in preoperative CTS patients, offering a viable alternative during delays in surgical procedures. Nerve mechanical interface treatment could not only help mild to severe CTS patients but might be relevant for severe CTS patients with associated comorbidities.

Regulation Roles of Juvenile Hormone Epoxide Hydrolase Gene 2 in the Female River Prawn Macrobrachium nipponense Reproductive Process

In this study, we investigated the regulatory roles of the juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase (JHEH) gene in the reproductive process of female Macrobrachium nipponense. Its total cDNA length was 1848 bp, encoding for 460 amino acids. It contained conserved domains typical of epoxide hydrolases, such as the Abhydrolase family domain, the EHN epoxide hydrolase superfamily domain, and the “WWG” and “HGWP” motifs. The qPCR results showed that the expression of Mn-JHEH was the highest in hepatopancreas. Mn-JHEH was expressed at all stages of the embryonic and larval stages. The expression of Mn-JHEH at different developmental periods of the ovary was positively correlated with ovarian maturation. In situ hybridization showed that it was mainly located in the cytoplasmic membrane and nucleus of oocytes. The RNA interference technique was used to study the role of Mn-JHEH in the process of ovarian maturation. The knockdown of Mn-JHEH with dsRNA in the experimental group resulted in a significant decrease in the percentage of ovaries exceeding stage O-III and the gonadal index compared with the control group. On day 14 (the second molt), the molt frequency was significantly higher in the control group than in the experimental group. The results showed that Mn-JHEH played an important role in ovarian maturation and molting.

Study Skills in Graduate Students in An Lms-Supported Learning Environment

Objective: This study examines the efficacy of learning management system (LMS) support in enhancing graduate students; study skills, with a particular focus on the impact of Moodle utilization on academic performance. Theoretical Framework: In the field of education, information and communication technologies (ICT) have played a pivotal role in transforming teaching practices. Moodle has emerged as a prominent electronic learning platform, integrating learning resources into a digital environment. Previous studies have demonstrated that using LMS platforms like Moodle can improve certain study skills in students. Method: The research employed a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design. Two groups of 47 students each were formed: an experimental group (using Moodle) and a control group (using traditional methods). The efficacy of the intervention was evaluated by measuring nine dimensions of study skills using a 60-item questionnaire administered before and after the intervention. Results and Discussion: The experimental group exhibited notable advancement in six of the nine assessed areas in the posttest, outperforming the control group in aspects such as motivation for learning, organization and planning, and resource utilization. However, no significant improvements were observed in essay writing and effective listening skills. Research Implications: Findings suggest that using Moodle can enhance various study skills; however, it is essential to adapt LMS platforms to meet the specific needs of students and educational contexts. Originality/Value: This study makes a significant contribution to the field of educational technology by demonstrating Moodles potential to enhance study skills in graduate students. It also highlights the need for further research on its implementation across different educational contexts in order to gain a deeper understanding and optimize learning management system (LMS) platforms.

Potential Probiotic Bacillus Strains with Antioxidant and Antimutagenic Activity Increased Weight Gain and Altered hsp70, cxc, tnfα, il1β, and lysC Gene Expression in Clarias gariepinus

The potential probiotic properties of three Bacillus strains were studied. A probiotic supplement for the African catfish Clarias gariepinus was produced via the solid-state fermentation protocol and incorporated into the fish feed for a period of seven weeks. Since the 36th day of the experiment, all experimental groups had a statistically significant increase in their weight gain than the control group. The maximum weight gain observed in fish fed the probiotic-supplemented feed was 29.16% higher than that of the control group, and the maximum feed conversion rate improvement was 24%. Cell-free extracts from these strains showed antioxidant (11.55–27.40%) and DNA-protective (45.33–61.83%) activity in a series of in vitro biosensor tests. Further investigation into the antimutagenic activity of the strains revealed that two of them reduced the level of induced mutagenesis in an Escherichia coli model (by 33.58% and 54.35%, respectively). We also assessed the impact of probiotic strains on the expression of several key genes in the host (C. gariepinus), including hsp70, cxc, tnfα, il1β, and lysC. More than a 10-fold increase in expression rates was observed for hsp70 in gonads and liver; for cxc in muscles and gonads; for tnfα in brain, gills, and liver; for il1β in the brain, gills, gonads, and liver; and for lysC in gills, gonads, liver, and muscles. This study provides evidence that probiotics exhibiting antioxidant and antimutagenic properties can provide significant benefits in vivo within aquaculture systems. The molecular effects of these probiotics appear to be complex and tissue-specific, with both upregulation and downregulation of immune system genes observed. Nevertheless, at the organismal level, the impact was unequivocally positive in terms of aquaculture objectives, manifested as enhanced body weight gain in the fish. Consequently, these Bacillus strains warrant serious consideration as potential probiotics for this species.

The Effect of Translanguaging on Student’s Self Efficacy in Speaking English

The aim of this study was to identify the effect of translanguaging on students’ self-efficacy in speaking. This research used procedure text of personal money management. Translanguaging is a process of creating meaning, shaping experience, acquiring understanding and knowledge by using two languages (Baker, 2011). Recently, it is a suitable strategy for teaching and learning language, especially to gain self-efficacy in speaking English because it gives students freedom to dynamically use their L1 and L2 repertoire which can create safe environment and reducing anxiety in speaking by implementing translanguaging concepts; stance, design, and shift (Carstens, 2016; Vogel &amp; García, 2017; D. Wang, 2019). Then, the subjects were students at SMA Negeri 1 Dukun Mentaras, Dukun, Gresik. This research consists of around 72 eleventh graders students as samples and used quasi-experimental which had an experimental class and control class. Pre-intervention test, treatment, and post-intervention test are the tools used in this research to gather data. Based on the data analysis by comparing the result of pre and post test data of experimental group in Wilcoxon signed-rank (p-value 0.135) and the post test data of control and experimental group in Mann-Whitney U (p-value 0.386), there is no significant improvement on self-efficacy in students speaking English of the experimental group after treatment. It is due to the complication in implementation of translanguaging concepts that are explained in discussion.

Influence of different kinematics on shaping ability and accumulated hard tissue debris: an ex vivo study.

To determine the shaping ability, the amount of accumulated hard tissue debris (AHTD) and untouched area is generated by different kinematics through micro-CT. Thirty-two mesial roots of mandibular molars with Vertucci type IV were pre-scanned through micro-CT evaluation and randomized to one of the four experimental groups according to the kinematics tested: Continuous Rotation (CR), Reciprocation (REC), Optimum Torque Reverse (OTR) and Jeni motion. The root canal preparation was performed with HyFlex EDM (Coltène/Whaledent AG) up to OneFile. After each file used, irrigation was performed with 2mL 5.25% NaOCl for 1min. The final rinse was performed with 1ml of 5.25% NaOCl followed by a 1ml of 17% EDTA and, 1ml of distilled water. Then, the samples were scanned and the images, before and after preparation, were superimposed and analyzed to determine the AHTD, untouched areas, canal transportation, centering ability, and shaping time. Data were statistically analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn post hoc with p < 0.05. No significant differences were detected among the tested kinematics in terms of untouched areas, AHTD, canal transportation and shaping time (p > 0.05). Significantly more untouched areas were detected in the coronal third compared to the middle (p = 0.0301) and apical ones (p = 0.0399) under continuous rotation. Moreover, a significantly higher centering ratio in the middle third compared to the apical was observed for Jeni motion (p = 0.0207). The tested kinematics showed similar untouched areas, AHTD, shaping ability and shaping time. All motions determined an appropriate mechanical preparation; yet, none of them was able to prepare all canal walls and keep the root canals completely free from hard tissue debris.

Experimental Study of Products Based on Biocompatible Polymer Material from Methacrylic Oligomers as a Potential Barrier for Preventing Adhesions in Cardiac Surgery.

The effectiveness and safety of two types of samples based on a biocompatible polymer material made of methacrylic oligomers (Reperen) as a potential antiadhesion pericardial barrier were evaluated in in vitro and in vivo experiments. Two kinds of samples, reinforced with a polyamide mesh and without reinforcement, were used. In in vitro experiments, no adhesion and aggregation of human fibroblasts to the test samples were detected. In in vivo experiments, the samples implanted to rats into the thigh muscles were easily separated from the surrounding tissues 1, 2, and 3 weeks after implantation, being weakly fixed only in the area of the edges. Histological examination at week 2 after implantation revealed no differences between the experimental and control groups. At week 1 and 3, fibrosis and inflammation were more pronounced in animals of the control group (with simulated implantation). The properties demonstrated by both samples of Reperen barriers (with and without polyamide mesh reinforcement) in vivo and in vitro allow considering them as a potential antiadhesion pericardial barrier for clinical use.

GLA-loaded Liposome Albumin Particles-mediated p53 Targets Cervical Cancer Cell Transplant Tumors

Background p53 is a phosphorylated glycoprotein whose expression is abnormally elevated in various human tumors. p53 also regulates a variety of tumor cells, but research on cervical cancer has not yet been reported. Purpose This study intends to investigate the role of targeting p53 in cervical cancer. Methods Electron microscopy was used to assess the size of protein particles, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2 H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) was used to detect the OD value of nanocomposites at different concentrations using a UV spectrophotometer, MTT and cell cloning were used to detect cell proliferation expression ability, and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect p53 expression. Immunofluorescence measured nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) expression in cells, and western blotting assessed the relative expression of p53 and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) proteins. The detection mechanism was further explored through in vivo studies. Results Glutaraldehyde (GLA)-loaded liposomal albumin particles showed a positive zeta value, indicating that the CS coating process of GLA was successful. Our data show that the experimental group showed a concentration-dose-dependent growth relationship, indicating that GLA-loaded liposome albumin particles have better antitumor activity in cervical cancer cell lines. Compared with most GLA-loaded liposomal albumin particle groups, P53 expression was inhibited, and the expression of P53 was downregulated in GLA-loaded liposomal albumin particle cervical cancer. In vivo results showed that the measured tumor volume decreased after treatment with GLA-loaded liposomal albumin particles, and mice treated with GLA-loaded liposomal albumin particles had longer survival times. Induction of NF-κB in tumors may be a powerful strategy allowing GLA-loaded liposomal albumin particles to avoid apoptosis and possibly after cytotoxic chemotherapy. Conclusion This study demonstrates that GLA-loaded liposomal albumin particles may participate in the development and progression of human cervical cancer cells by targeted regulation of NF-κB activity.

Expression of GnRH, Kisspeptin, and Their Specific Receptors in the Ovary and Uterus in Deslorelin-Treated Late-Prepubertal Bitches

In this study, the expression and localization of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH1) and kisspeptin (KISS1) and their specific receptors in canine ovarian and uterine tissues were investigated after the application of deslorelin acetate (Suprelorin®, 4.7 mg, Virbac, France) in the late prepubertal period. We hypothesized that prolonged treatment of prepubertal dogs with deslorelin would alter the expression of GnRH and kisspeptin genes in the uterus and ovaries. Ovarian and uterine samples of 25 dogs with an average age of 7.8 ± 0.2 months and from mixed breeds were used. Following implant insertion, dogs entered estrus (EST; n = 6); dogs without estrus (N-EST; n = 10) comprised the experimental groups. Nine dogs with placebo implants served as a control (CONT). Ovarian and uterine tissues were investigated for expression of GnRH1, GnRHR, KISS1, and KISS1R/GPR54 mRNA and protein by using IHC and RT-qPCR. In the uterus, expression of GnRH1 significantly decreased in response to deslorelin treatment in the N-EST, compared with the control group. Compared with CONT, KISS1R expression in ovarian samples was significantly lower in the EST group. Uterine protein expression of GnRH1 appeared weaker in N-EST than in CONT. While GnRH1-system members and KISS1 protein were localized in the follicles at various stages and stroma, no or only weak signals were detected for KISS1R in the ovarian samples. Deslorelin-mediated induction of puberty by changing the expression of some of the GnRH and KISS1-system members seems to have an effect on ovarian and uterine functionality. Deslorelin implants can, therefore, not be considered a valuable alternative to induce fertile estrus in late-prepubertal bitches. However, further studies with a larger number of animals are needed to clarify the effect of deslorelin-mediated induction of puberty.

Study on the Mechanism of miR-124-3p Regulating Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Objective: To investigate the role of miR-124-3p in ischemia-reperfusion injury following ischemic stroke and to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of miR-124-3p inhibition on neurological outcomes, infarct size, and apoptosis. Methods: A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was used to induce ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. Experimental groups included a sham surgery group, an MCAO group, an MCAO + miR-124-3p NC group, and an MCAO + miR-124-3p antagomir group. Neurological deficits were assessed at 2, 8, and 24 hours post-ischemia. Infarct size and apoptosis levels were measured using brain tissue weight analysis and TUNEL assay, respectively, to evaluate the extent of ischemic damage and cell death. Results: The MCAO group showed progressively worsening neurological deficits, increased infarct size, and extensive apoptosis. In contrast, miR-124-3p inhibition significantly reduced neurological deficits, with lower scores at all time points. The MCAO + miR-124-3p inhibitor group demonstrated a significant reduction in infarct size compared to the MCAO group and the NC group, suggesting tissue preservation. Additionally, the miR-124-3p inhibitor group showed markedly reduced apoptosis, as evidenced by decreased TUNEL-positive signals, indicating a reduction in cell death following ischemia-reperfusion injury. Conclusion: Inhibition of miR-124-3p plays a neuroprotective role in ischemia-reperfusion injury by mitigating neurological deficits, reducing infarct size, and lowering apoptosis levels. These findings suggest that miR-124-3p inhibition could be a promising therapeutic target for minimizing brain damage and improving recovery in ischemic stroke patients.

The impact of reflective teaching on EFL learners through implicit and explicit pragmatic competence instructions

ABSTRACT Although reflective teaching and pragmatic competence have been studied, their intersection in an EFL context remains underexplored. This study examines the impact of reflective teaching on Iranian EFL learners through implicit and explicit pragmatic competence instructions. One hundred and twenty Iranian EFL learners participated in this quasi-experimental study, facilitated by experienced English teachers familiar with reflective teaching and pragmatic instruction techniques. The Nelson proficiency test, a pragmatic test, and reflective diaries were employed to assess learners’ homogeneity, pragmatic competence, and teaching practices. Participants were divided into two experimental groups and two control groups. Experimental groups received reflective teaching alongside explicit or implicit pragmatic instructions, while control groups received only pragmatic instructions. Data were analyzed using paired and independent sample t-tests. Results revealed that reflective teaching, especially when combined with explicit instruction, significantly enhanced learners’ pragmatic competence compared to non-reflective teaching. This study has significant practical implications for educators, including teachers, curriculum developers, instructional coordinators, policymakers, and language practitioners, in overcoming teaching challenges effectively. By aligning reflective teaching with pragmatic instruction, educators can address teaching challenges more effectively, potentially reducing the need for extensive modifications to teaching materials and methods..

The Effect of Exercise on Improving Respiratory Function and Physical Activity in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19

Background: The outbreak of COVID-19 has been associated with various physical and psychological effects. The role of exercise in strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation has already been proven. Moderate levels of exercise can enhance overall immunity. Exercise can improve intracellular metabolism and increase cell defense activity by improving inflammatory cytokines, immature B cells, and cytotoxic T cells. Therefore, exercise is known as a defense strategy against respiratory infections. Here the role of exercise in improving respiratory function and physical activity in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 was evaluated. Methods: The present study was performed as a randomized clinical trial on 90 hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Both groups received all routine treatments (medication, invasive or non-invasive ventilation, physiotherapy). Then, in the experimental group, standard exercises were provided to improve the patients’ physical condition and exercise capacity. After two weeks and one month later, all indices were measured again in two groups. Results: The results of the present study showed that exercise causes significant changes in indicators such as 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) (p=0.001), balance score (p=0.02), and Sf1 score (p=0.05) in two time periods before and after rehabilitation in two groups. Conclusion: Performing standard and defined exercise exercises for patients with the new coronavirus improves the physical activity and respiratory function of patients.