Journal of Translational Medical Research

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Background and Aim: Cephalometery is a branch of anthropometry science. This research was conducted in view of the importance of anthropometric indices in forensic medicine, plastic surgery, anatomy and orthodoncy with regard to face shapes of young males in the ethnic groups of Gorgan. Materials and Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was done on the face shapes in Fars and Turkman ethnic groups of 398 normal 17-20 year old males using cephalometric measures. The length and width of faces were determined by using classic cephalometery technique Martin Saler Cephalometer having the accuracy of 0.5 mm and T ruler and the shape of faces were classified according to 5 international types. Then, mean and percent of face shapes in the ethnic groups of Fars and Turkman males were compared. To determine morphological indices in the ethnic groups chi-square test was used and for comparison of the means of the anthropometric findings Student’s t (=0.05) was applied. Results: The dominant type of face shape in the native Fars and Turkman males was mesoprosopic 44 % and 38.4%, respectively. The rare type of face shape in native Fars and Turkman males was hyperleptoprosopic 4% and 8.6 %, respectively. Mean of prosopic index in the two ethnic groups was not significant. Conclusion: This study, in addition to determining face shapes in the area, indicated that diversity of face shapes in the ethnic groups is due to genetic factors.

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Background and Aim: Congenital anomalies of spine especially in the lumbosacral region represent an extensive spectrum from simple asymptomatic defect (spina bifida occulta) to complicated myelomeningocele with profound neurogenic deficits. The goal of the present study was to determine neural tube defects (NTDs) frequency in asymptomatic in apparently healthy adults in Birjand. Materials and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional descriptive one on 925 seemingly healthy individuals applying for employment in IRI police force in Birjand city in 2007. Radiographs of lumbosacral region were obtained in the anterior-posterior and lateral projections. Additional views were also acquired if indicated. All radiographs were examined by an experienced radiologist to detect any lumbosacral anomalies. Statistical analysis was well done by SPSS (version 12) at the significant level P<0.05. Results: Mean age of the subjects was 23.6±5.5 years. 76% of the population were single and 68% of them had been born in South Khorasan province. 21.6% of the subjects had one of NTDs. The most prevalent anomaly was spina bifida (14.7%). The most common involved vertebra was S1 (11.7%) and the second most common anomaly was bilateral or unilateral sacralization of L5 (6%). Conclusion:According to the findings of the study asymptomatic lumbosacral disraphisms in the region are relatively common(21.6%) the most prevalent of which is spina bifida occulta involving S1 vertebra. Regarding the role of nutrition (folic acid) and genetics in the occurrence of these complications, more research on and attention to the diet of pregnant mothers are recommended. Although there are reasons supporting the occurrence of late appearing complications such as chronic and hernidiscal backaches, this congenital complications association requires more research.

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Background and Aim: Cephalometery, as one of the most significant section of anthropometry examines the facial and cephalic indeces. Since the measurements are affected by geographical factors, gender, age, and race, the obtained results are based on the community under study. Regarding lack of investigations on cephalometry in Birjand, the present study aimed at determining cephalic indexes and standard classification of neurocranium in 15-17 year old female students in the city in 2013. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 437 healthy female 15-17 year old students in Birjand during 2013, who were selected through cluster sampling. Then, cephalic indices of the subjects were determined using standard Martin Scale Cephalometer, according to Gray's Anatomy Cephalometric Method. The obtained data were collected according were analyzed using SPSS soft ware (V:13). Results: Mean maximum head length and breadth in the subjects were found to be 177.6±7.54mm and 141.6±5.84mm, respectively. Total neurocranium index was determined 79.88±4.64 mm. The head shape of 43% of the individuals was mesocephalic, %33/4 brachycephalic, %12/12 hyperbrachycephalic and %11/44 dolichocephalic. Conclusion: The present study on cephalometry revealed that adult female students in Birjand city mostly have a mesocephalic phenotype.