Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Using ReAttach Therapy and an Eclectic Approach: A Case Study of a 27-Year-Old Unmarried Hindu Female Engineering Graduate

Clinical & Counseling Psychology Assam Downtown University, Panikhaiti, Guwahati, India

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2190-4327
Mohadeseh Bita

Department of Social Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.4.2.156

Abstract

Background: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex psychiatric condition characterised by persistent emotional dysregulation, a fragmented self-image, impulsive behaviors, and significant difficulties in maintaining interpersonal relationships. Managing BPD poses notable challenges, particularly when accounting for the impact of various cultural contexts on symptom expression and treatment methodologies.

Objectives: This case study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an eclectic treatment approach that integrates ReAttach Therapy with established interventions for the management of BPD. The subject of the study was a 27-year-old unmarried Hindu female engineering graduate diagnosed with BPD.

Methods: The intervention lasted 52 weeks and combined ReAttach Therapy as the primary modality with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices. Standardised psychometric tools (BSL-23, DERS, and BDI-II) were administered before and after treatment to evaluate outcomes.

Results: The results indicate significant improvements in emotional regulation, a decrease in fears of abandonment, stabilisation in relationships, and enhanced psychological resilience. These findings suggest that the combination of ReAttach Therapy with eclectic techniques presents a promising and culturally adaptable framework for managing BPD.

Conclusions: The integrative approach resulted in a considerable reduction in BPD symptoms, indicating that ReAttach Therapy, when used in conjunction with eclectic techniques, may offer an effective and culturally responsive strategy for treating BPD.

Keywords: Borderline Personality Disorder, Case Study, Eclectic Approach, ReAttach Therapy

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Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Development and validation of Thought, Language, and Communication Assessment Scale for Persons with Aphasia

Sampath Muthu Lakshmipriya

Department of Speech-Language Pathology, School of Rehabilitation and Behavioral Sciences, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (DU), Puducherry, India

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-7362-3129

Nagaraj Hema

Department of Speech-Language Sciences, All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, Mysuru, India

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4177-6839

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.4.2.165

Abstract

Introduction: Aphasia impacts language and thought organization, disrupting effective communication. Thought, Language, and Communication (TLC) are interrelated, and breakdowns in one domain often affect the others. A comprehensive assessment tool is essential to understand and address these interlinks. This study aimed to develop and validate the Thought, Language, and Communication Assessment Scale for Persons with Aphasia (TLCAS-PWA) for Persons with Aphasia (PWA) and Neurotypical Individuals (NTI).
Method: The tool was developed through literature review and expert validation, comprising 14 parameters across communication, language, and thought domains, rated on a 5-point scale. It was administered to 20 PWA and 20 NTI.
Results: Among PWA, PCS showed the highest mean scores, while Self-reference was least frequent. At the domain level, both PWA and NTI had higher scores in Communication Disorder and lower in Language Disorder. Mann-Whitney U tests revealed significant differences between groups across all the domains. Psychometric analysis showed good internal consistency (α = 0.88), excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.98), and stable test–retest reliability.
Conclusion: TLCAS-PWA is a valid tool that aids clinicians in assessing TLC in aphasia, supporting diagnosis, intervention, and progress monitoring.

Keywords: TLCAS-PWA, Language and Thought Impairment, Aphasia, TLC interrelated

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Saturday, December 27, 2025

Evaluation of horizontal fusional vergence in young children with intermittent exotropia using the synoptophore and prism bar

Rajesh Kumar

Department of Optometry, Nims College of Allied & Health care Sciences, NIMS University Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 303121 India

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6032-2437

Malhar Tushar Vyas

Department of Ophthalmology, Nims University Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2123-6634

Neebha Passi

Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, Pt. B. D. Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, Haryana, India

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4387-3357

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.4.2.159

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to compare the synoptophore and prism bar for assessing horizontal fusional vergence (HFV) in young children with intermittent exotropia (IXT).
Methods: The research involved ninety-eight subjects with IXT, aged between six and sixteen years. The examination included vision assessment, a cover test, identification of the dominant eye, and measurement of the angle of deviation using a prism bar. The subjects' HFV (positive and negative fusional vergence) was assessed using a horizontal prism bar and synoptophore at both near and far distances. We assessed IXT's control utilizing the Newcastle score for both near and far distances.
Results: The positive fusional vergence (PFV) break points of the synoptophore above those of the prism bar at both near and distance ranges (P < 0.01). There was a statistically significant difference in PFV recovery points for both near (P < 0.01) and distance (P < 0.01). There were no statistically significant changes in the near-negative fusional vergence (NFV) blur and break points as determined by the prism bar and synoptophore. The distance, NFV blur, and break points were larger on the synoptophore compared to the prism bar (P < 0.01).The difference in NFV recovery points was statistically significant at both near (P = 0.05) and distance (P = 0.03).
Conclusion: It is essential to exercise caution when assessing the PFV and NFV in young children with IXT, as the synoptophore and prism bar are not comparable in these kinds of situations.

Keywords: Intermittent exotropia, Horizontal Fusional vergence, synoptophore, prism bar, office control score, step vergence method

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Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Functional and Anatomical Outcomes Following Intravitreal Bevacizumab in Treatment-Naïve Centre-Involving Diabetic Macular Edema: A 3-Month Prospective Evaluation

Sanjay Kumar Mishra

Nims College of Allied and Health Care Sciences, Nims University Rajasthan, Jaipur Rajasthan, India

https://orcid.org/0009-0003-0636-7727

Tejinder Singh Ahluwalia

Department of Ophthalmology, Nims University, Rajasthan, Jaipur, India

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3527-061X

Rajpal Vohra

Vitreo-Retina Services at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3308-969X

Rohan Chawla

Vitreo-Retina Services at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6791-4435

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.4.2.172

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic macular edema (DME) remains a major cause of vision impairment worldwide. Intravitreal bevacizumab, though used off-label, is an established therapy for centre-involved DME (CI-DME). This study evaluated how effectively microperimetry complements standard measures—best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT)—in assessing treatment outcomes.

Methods: In this prospective observational study, 52 eyes with treatment-naïve CI-DME received three monthly bevacizumab injections. BCVA, CMT (via OCT), and mean retinal sensitivity (by microperimetry) were recorded at baseline, one month, and three months. Statistical analyses included the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for repeated measures and Spearman’s rank correlation for structure–function relationships.

Results: After three months, mean BCVA improved from 0.50 ± 0.095 to 0.67 ± 0.088 (p < 0.001), while CMT decreased from 401.9 ± 87.6 µm to 329.5 ± 23.2 µm (p < 0.001). Mean retinal sensitivity rose from 14.96 ± 1.01 dB to 16.50 ± 1.39 dB (p < 0.001). Improvement in BCVA correlated positively with both CMT reduction (ρ = 0.340, p = 0.014) and sensitivity gain (ρ = 0.412, p = 0.004), while CMT reduction correlated inversely with sensitivity improvement (ρ = –0.367, p = 0.009).

Conclusion: Three consecutive bevacizumab injections resulted in significant anatomical and functional recovery in eyes with CI-DME. The consistent correlations between macular structure and function underscore the value of microperimetry as a sensitive, complementary tool for evaluating therapeutic response beyond standard acuity and OCT metrics.

Keywords: Diabetic Macular Edema, Bevacizumab, Central Macular Thickness, Anti-VEGF, Retinal Sensitivity, Microperimetry, OCT, Intravitreal Injection

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Saturday, December 20, 2025

The latest issue (Vol.4, No.2, 2025) has been published

Dear Colleagues and Readers,

We are pleased to announce that Volume 4, Issue 2 of the Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (JHRS) has been published online today, December 20, 2025. This issue comprises a total of seven peer-reviewed articles. The forthcoming issue, Volume 5, Issue 1 (2026), is scheduled for publication by June 30, 2026.

Access to JHRS

The current issue and all published articles are available online via the journal platform. Readers, researchers, and students may access full-text PDF, HTML and XML versions of all articles without restriction. Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences is an open-access, international, peer-reviewed, and non-profit journal, ensuring free and unlimited access to its scholarly content.
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When citing articles published in JHRS, authors are strongly encouraged to include the Digital Object Identifier (DOI) alongside standard bibliographic information. The DOI represents an international standard for persistent identification of digital content and ensures long-term accessibility, even if the article’s web location changes. Accordingly, the DOI should be used preferentially over direct URLs when referencing JHRS articles.
Online Features for Authors

By registering on the JHRS online submission system
(https://jhrs.almamater.si/index.php/jhrs/user/register), authors gain continuous access to information related to manuscript submission, review processes, and publication updates. We encourage authors and readers to disseminate JHRS publications within their academic networks and through social media platforms, thereby enhancing the visibility and impact of published research.

We warmly invite you to explore the content of Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and to consider JHRS as a venue for disseminating your scholarly work.

Call for Papers

The Call for Papers for Volume 5, Issue 1 is open until January 31, 2026.
Suggested thematic areas include:

Rehabilitation Research
Health Research
Special Education Research
Psychological Research
Neuropsychological Research
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Disability Research
Medical Aspects of Disability
Social Aspects of Disability
Master’s and Doctoral (PhD) Theses in the Field
Book Reviews relevant to the scope of the journal

If you have any questions or you face problems with paper submission, please feel free to contact us: editorjhrs@almamater.si. We look forward to your valuable contributions and continued engagement with JHRS.

With kind regards,
Editorial Team
Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Monday, September 8, 2025

Assessing Health-Related Quality of Life Outcomes Through Sensory Modulation Profiles in Adults with Atypical Sensory Processing: A Cross-Sectional Study

Patricija Goubar
Alma Mater Europaea University, Maribor, Slovenia
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7420-9460

Tomaž Velnar
Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6283-4348

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.4.1.153

Abstract

Background: Sensory integration dysfunction (SID) often involves sensory modulation difficulties that can significantly impair daily functioning and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adults. Despite its prevalence, the relationship between sensory modulation profiles and HRQoL in adults with SID remains underexplored. Understanding this link is essential for developing targeted interventions to address diverse symptom profiles.

Objectives: This study examined the association between sensory modulation difficulties and multiple HRQoL dimensions in adults with SID.

Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study included 86 adults aged 23–54 years, divided into two groups: adults with SID and healthy controls. Sensory modulation was assessed using the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile Questionnaire, and HRQoL was measured with the SF-36 instrument. Statistical analyses included the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Pearson’s correlation. The null hypothesis tested for no differences in HRQoL scores between groups.

Results: Significant differences were found between groups across all eight SF-36 domains and the overall HRQoL score (p < 0.001), with controls consistently scoring higher in each domain. Correlation analyses showed no significant associations between HRQoL outcomes and demographic variables (age, gender).

Conclusion: These findings confirm a strong association between SID and reduced HRQoL in adults, affecting both physical and mental health. The consistent impact across age and gender groups highlights the importance of personalized therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: Sensory Modulation Disorder, Sensory Integration Dysfunction, Sensory Processing Disorder, Health-Related Quality of Life, Health Status Indicators, Adults, SF-36 Questionnaire, Cross-Sectional Study

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Friday, August 29, 2025

Residential care staff working knowledge of reporting restrictive practices within Intellectual Disability and Older Persons care settings: A scoping review

Veronica Mukwashi

HSE, Waterford Residential Care Centre, Waterford, Ireland

https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6200-3495

Brian Sharvin

Department of Nursing and Health Care, School of Health Sciences, Cork Road, South East Technological University (SETU), Ireland

Ruth Maher

Department of Nursing and Health Care, School of Health Sciences, Cork Road, South East Technological University (SETU), Ireland

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9556-3142

Michelle Davitt

HSE, Wexford Residential Intellectual Disability Services, St. John’s Hospital, Munster Hill, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Ireland

https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9383-2846

Louise Bennett

Department of Nursing and Health Care, School of Health Sciences, Cork Road, South East Technological University (SETU), Ireland

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0311-2959

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.4.1.143

Abstract

Introduction: This Restrictive practice is an intentional restriction of an individual’s voluntary movement or behaviour. Given the impingement of human rights associated with restrictive practice, many jurisdictions all over the world have advocated for a reduction in their use, highlighting the importance of reporting restrictive practice. However, a paucity of literature exists examining the knowledge of residential care staff regarding reporting restrictive practice.

Aim: To examine the knowledge of residential care staff regarding the reporting of restrictive practices in intellectual disability and older persons care settings.

Methods: A scoping review referenced to JBI and PRISMA guidelines was used. The studies were retrieved from a library multi-search function of various databases. Sixteen studies were included in the final analysis.

Findings: Findings demonstrate that residential staff lack knowledge of what defines a restrictive practice and find the reporting system as unnecessary, time consuming and burdensome. The identified barriers to reporting restrictive practice included: fear, lack of clear guidelines and awareness of the reporting system, lack of time, and staff shortages. While the facilitators included awareness campaigns, availability of appropriate reporting structures, and managerial support.

Conclusion: This review suggests that improvements in terms of residential staff understanding of and reporting of restrictive practice is required. Moreover, this review has the potential to assist policymakers to understand the individual, organisational and regulatory barriers and facilitators to reporting restrictive practice within intellectual disability and older persons care settings.

Keywords: residential care staff, residential care, reporting, incidents, restrictive practices, older persons, intellectual disability, knowledge

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Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Clinical Application of the Bulgarian Version of the SCCAN: Pilot Data From Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease and Ischemic Stroke

Kostadin Chompalov
Department of Neurology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4636-1384

Penka Atanassova

1. Department of Neurology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria 2. Research Institute at Medical Univeristy of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-2410-4114

Dobrinka Georgieva

1. Department of Neurology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria 2. Research Institute at Medical Univeristy of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5029-9723

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.4.1.149

Abstract

Aim: This study evaluated the clinical utility of the Scales of Cognitive and Communicative Ability for Neurorehabilitation (SCCAN) upon assessing Bulgarian in-patients who present with either ischemic stroke or Alzheimer's disease (AD). The aim was to determine whether this tool could detect cognitive-communicative problems that may be missed by customary screening tools.

Methods: We conducted two independent pilot studies: one with 14 AD patients, and a second with 19 stroke patients and 31 healthy controls. All participants completed the Bulgarian SCCAN, which assesses eight domains including oral expression, orientation, memory, auditory and reading comprehension, writing, attention, and problem-solving. Stroke and control participants also underwent the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Descriptive statistics were used so group performance and correlations could be examined. Tests that are non-parametric were also used.

Results: SCCAN revealed domain-specific deficits in clinical cohorts. In the AD group, memory and orientation were the most impaired domains. Stroke patients, on the other hand, showed significant impairments, particularly in memory, oral expression, and auditory comprehension, while orientation and attention were relatively preserved. Overall, stroke patients performed significantly better on the SCCAN than the AD group. These findings reveal distinct cognitive–communicative profiles in AD versus stroke populations.

Conclusion: SCCAN's Bulgarian version identified cognitive-communicative deficits with clinical sensitivity in patients with AD as well as with those with ischemic stroke. The tool may guide individualized neurorehabilitation and complement standard screening methods. Additional verification is advised.

Keywords: SCCAN, cognitive-communicative disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, ischemic stroke, neurorehabilitation, screening

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