5-point Scale Research Articles

Successful repigmentation of hypopigmented scars with micropunch grafting with a skin-seeding technique.

Hypopigmented scars are challenging to treat, and the focus for successful treatment is to cause pigment cells to produce more melanin. In this study, we evaluated the repigmentation effects of 0.4 mm motorized-micropunch grafting with skin-seeding for hypopigmented scars. Twenty-one patients with hypopigmented scars on the face and neck that had been resistant to conventional treatment and who had finally undergone micropunch grafting with a skin-seeding technique (SST) were retrospectively reviewed. Repigmentation outcomes were evaluated with global assessment by a physician using a 4-point repigmentation scale. Adverse events were noted. The subjects were followed for a 2-year follow-up period post grafting. All 21 subjects exhibited excellent to complete repigmentation of more than 75% of the hypopigmented scars. More than 90% repigmentation was observed in 17 patients. The mean duration for repigmentation that the subjects were satisfied with was 5.5 months. No adverse effects or recurrence instances were observed. Motorized micropunch grafting is an effective and promising alternative treatment for repigmentation of hypopigmented scars.

Minimizing prostate diffusion weighted MRI examination time through deep learning reconstruction

PurposeTo study the diagnostic image quality of high b-value diffusion weighted images (DWI) derived from standard and variably reduced datasets reconstructed with a commercially available deep learning reconstruction (DLR) algorithm. Materials and methodsThis was a retrospective study of 52 patients undergoing conventional prostate MRI with raw image data reconstructed using both conventional 2D Cartesian and DLR algorithms. Simulated shortened DWI acquisition times were performed by reconstructing images using DLR datasets harboring a reduced number of excitations (NEX). Two radiologists independently evaluated the image quality using a 4-point Likert scale. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) analysis was performed for the entire cohort and a subset of patients identified as having clinically significant prostate cancer identified at MRI, and later confirmed by pathology. ResultsRadiologists perceived less image noise for both restricted and large field of view (FOV) standard NEX dataset DLR diffusion images compared to conventionally reconstructed images with good interreader agreement. Diagnostic image quality was maintained for all DLR images using variably reduced NEX compared to conventionally reconstructed images employing the standard NEX. Improved signal to noise was observed for the restricted FOV DLR images compared to conventional reconstruction using standard NEX. DLR diffusion images derived from reduced NEX datasets translated to time reductions of up to 68 % and 39 % for the restricted and large FOV series acquisitions, respectively. ConclusionDLR of diffusion weighted images can reduce image noise at standard NEX and potentially reduce prostate MRI exam time when utilizing reduced NEX datasets without sacrificing diagnostic image quality.

Self-perceived cultural competence skills among graduating dental students in Saudi Arabia

ObjectivesGraduating culturally competent dentists is crucial for providing a high standard of care for patient outcomes and satisfaction. The objectives of this study were to assess the self-perceived cultural competence (CC) among graduating dental students and to explore factors that may influence the development of these competencies. MethodsA cross-sectional survey design was employed, utilizing a self-administered electronic questionnaire. The survey was distributed to graduating dentists at the end of their internship year. The survey included demographic data, academic information, and self-rating of CC skills adapted from the Knowledge, Efficacy, and Practices Instrument rated on a 4-point Likert scale. ResultsOf 660 respondents, the majority (57.3%) were female, and most participants (87.7%) were raised in urban cities. Self-perceived CC was highest for treating patients of the same gender and lowest for patients with special needs. Bilingualism, gender, and school type were significant predictors of higher CC scores, particularly in treating patients from diverse backgrounds. Clinical rotations in varied settings were reported by 93.2% of students to improve their CC skills. ConclusionsThe findings suggest that experiential exposure to service learning and diverse patient populations has a positive impact on dental students’ CC skills. Gender and being proficient in a second language were key factors in CC development, with areas such as treating patients with special needs being highlighted for further improvement in the curriculum.

The Influence of "Labels" for Neck Pain on Recovery Expectations Following a Motor Vehicle Crash: An Online-Randomized Vignette-Based Experiment.

OBJECTIVES: To (1) investigate whether different labels for neck pain after a motor vehicle crash (MVC) influenced recovery expectations and management beliefs, (2) explore reasons for low recovery expectations and greater likelihood for lodging a claim, and (3) explore the moderating effect of neck pain history and sociodemographic characteristics. DESIGN: Online randomized experiment with nested qualitative content analysis. METHODS: We randomized 2229 participants from the general population (mean age: 46.7 ± 17.5 years; 72.4% females; 66% with previous or current neck pain; 10% with an MVC experience) to read 1 of 5 scenarios describing a patient with neck pain after an MVC, each was labeled as whiplash injury, whiplash-associated disorder, posttraumatic neck pain, neck pain, or neck strain. The primary outcome was recovery expectations, rated on a 0- to 10-point scale. RESULTS: Participants allocated to whiplash-associated disorder or neck pain had lower recovery expectations than those allocated to neck strain (adjusted mean difference [95% confidence interval]: -0.5 [-0.9 to -0.1] for both comparisons). Whiplash-associated disorder led to more recovery uncertainty, while neck pain led to greater doubt about the health care provider. Most secondary outcomes showed significant but small differences. Participants allocated to neck strain were less inclined to claim than those allocated to whiplash-associated disorder or whiplash injury due to less perceived need for financial support. Neck pain history moderated labeling effects on recovery expectations; household income moderated the claim intention. CONCLUSIONS: Labels for neck pain after an MVC influenced recovery expectations and management preferences. The clinical relevance of the small effects was unclear. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2024;54(11):1-10. Epub 5 September 2024. doi:10.2519/jospt.2024.12590.

Student Perceptions of ChatGPT in Mandatory EFL Writing Classes at a Korean University : A Case Study

This study explored to what extent students at a Korean university perceive ChatGPT as useful in mandatory university EFL writing classes. In addition, preferences regarding methods of instruction and the outlook for future classes of a similar nature in the era of ChatGPT were also examined. 239 students enrolled at a university located on the outskirts of Seoul responded to a survey questionnaire consisting of a combination of multiple choice, 10-point Likert scale, and open-ended questions, which was used as the primary data collection method. Data analysis was conducted using general qualitative analysis for open ended questions and descriptive statistics for multiple choice and 10-point Likert scale questions. In addition, if consent was given, survey participants were contacted by e-mail to discuss responses in further detail. Despite concerns relating to ownership of learning and overreliance, the findings indicate generally positive perceptions of ChatGPT in terms of assisting with grammar, vocabulary, brainstorming, and proofreading. Conventional approaches (e.g., human teacher, in person lessons, and inter student / teacher communication) are still highly desired although the increasing influence of ChatGPT cannot be ignored. There is a belief that mandatory EFL writing classes currently play a vital role at Korean universities, and there is a strong preference for them to continue. Administrational and educational implications are also discussed.

OSCE RELATED ANXIETY IN ASSOCIATION WITH PERCEIVED VS ACTUAL PERFORMANCE

Objectives: The study investigates the impact of anxiety on medical students performance in Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), focusing on the relationship between self-perceived and actual performance. Methods: Conducted among 5th-year medical students at Taif University, the study used an online questionnaire with the PHQ-4 scale to measure anxiety and depression. The aim was to correlate these levels with students self-assessment and actual performance in OSCEs. Results: The study analyzed responses from 62 students. The average self-reported anxiety level was 8.95 ± 1.348 on a 10-point scale, with 64.5% of students reporting severe anxiety and depression. No significant gender differences in anxiety and depression severity were noted (p=0.308). Higher levels of anxiety and depression were reported by students who perceived their grades as lower, although this was not statistically significant (p=0.431). There was no statistically significant correlation between anxiety/depression severity and actual grades (p=0.280). Conclusions: The study underscores the prevalent issue of anxiety among medical students and its potential influence on their self-perceived performance in critical evaluations like OSCEs. It suggests the necessity for targeted interventions to manage student anxiety, which could enhance self-assessment accuracy and overall performance.

Efficacy of Treatments in Reducing Facial Erythema in Rosacea: A Systematic Review.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects over 5% of individuals worldwide. Its clinical presentation is characterized by an array of features, including erythema, papules and pustules, phymatous changes, telangiectasia, and ocular manifestations. Specifically, the multifaceted manifestation of erythema varies widely in intensity and distribution. Factors contributing to pathogenesis include neurovascular dysregulation, increased levels of pro-inflammatory mediators, and aberrant vasodilation. Erythema management plays an important role in reducing the psychosocial burden associated with rosacea and improving overall quality of life. Cochrane CENTRAL, Medline, and Embase databases were searched from inception to September 2023 and included 33 clinical trials reporting on a total of 7411 rosacea patients (74.1% female) and 21 different topical or systemic treatments. The mean age was 48.8 years (range, 18-83 years), and the mean time to outcome assessment was 8.1 weeks (standard deviation, 4.1 weeks). Treatment efficacy was assessed by outcome measures including percent improvement from baseline on 4- and 5-point scales, clinician erythema assessment (CEA) success (improvement ≥1 point), and CEA and patient self-assessment success (improvement ≥1 point). Pooled effect sizes for each treatment were calculated as a weighted average based on the number of patients in each study. The most effective topical treatments for reducing erythema include sodium sulphacetamide and sulphur, praziquantel, metronidazole, and B244 spray (Nitrosomonas eutropha). The most effective systemic treatment was paroxetine. Our findings highlight the varying efficacy of treatments in addressing the erythema in rosacea, recognizing the nuances of clinical presentations.

PERFECT: Personalized Exercise Recommendation Framework and architECTure

Background : The health benefits of regular physical activity (PA) are well-established and widely acknowledged. Through the integration of wearable trackers, the Internet of Things (IoT)—a network of interconnected devices capable of collecting and exchanging data—coupled with mobile health (mHealth), which refers to the use of mobile devices to support medical and public health practices, it is now feasible to systematically gather and present individual exercise behaviors. This advanced approach enables the precise correlation of users’ physiological data and daily activities with their specific fitness needs, offering a personalized pathway to improving health outcomes. Objective : This study aims to enhance PA levels among individuals by developing a personalized exercise recommendation system. Utilizing reinforcement learning, the system proposes tailored exercise plans based on biomarkers and the user’s specific context. Methods : In this study, we developed applications for smartphones and smartwatches designed to gather, monitor, and recommend exercise routines through the application of a contextual multi-arm bandit algorithm. To evaluate the efficacy of this mHealth exercise regimen, we enlisted the participation of twenty female college students. Results : The outcomes of our investigation revealed a significant enhancement in the average daily duration of exercise (P \({\lt}\) . 001). Participants expressed high levels of satisfaction with both the walking program and the recommendation system, achieving average ratings of 4.31 (SD \(=\) 0.60) and 3.69 (SD \(=\) 0.95), respectively, on a 5-point scale. Furthermore, the average scores for participants’ confidence in safely performing the recommended walking exercises, as well as their perception of the study’s effectiveness in meeting their PA needs, were both above 4, indicating a positive reception and confidence in the program’s design and implementation. Conclusions : The evolution of the IoT and wearable technology has marked the beginning of a new era for mHealth systems, particularly in the personalization of health interventions. Such advancements enable the precise personalization of PA recommendations, potentially enhancing user engagement and performance outcomes. This paper introduces a novel exercise recommendation system that utilizes reinforcement learning to personalize walking exercises based on the user’s biomarkers and context, aiming to improve the user’s aerobic capacity significantly.

Prioritization of Evaluation Items for Industrial Accident Prevention Factors Using the Fuzzy TOPSIS Technique

With the rapid progress of industrialization, serious accidents have frequently occurred at industrial sites. Despite the existence of several laws and regulations for preventing industrial accidents, including the Occupational Safety and Health Act, social criticism has been raised regarding their inefficiency. To address this issue, the Serious Accident Punishment Act was implemented. The Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Korea Safety and Health Agency have prepared and implemented various industrial accident prevention measures and programs; however, the number of industrial accidents has not decreased. Therefore, new evaluation criteria must be introduced when establishing policies or systems to prevent industrial accidents. This study introduces evaluation items used in Europe and the United States as industrial accident prevention items for assessing industrial accident prevention projects and proposes a plan to select priorities for these items by applying the fuzzy TOPSIS technique. Prioritization was determined by calculating four evaluation criteria and ten industrial accident prevention items using a 7-point linguistic scale. Our results allow for the simultaneous consideration of several industrial accident prevention items. Thus, various aspects of industrial accident prevention activities can be comprehensively evaluated, enhancing the effectiveness and execution of safety and health management, thereby helping to reduce industrial accidents.

Linguistic correlates of second language users’ attitudes to Arabic and Chinese varieties of English: a verbal guise study

ABSTRACT Research into language attitudes suggests that L2 users often hold negative attitudes toward their own and others’ L2 accents. However, less is known about specific features that affect these attitudes. Beinhoff’s study explored consonantal variation and its impact on perceptions of L2 speakers, but this study further examines linguistic correlates of L2 users’ attitudes toward Arabic and Chinese varieties of English. Using the verbal guise method, Arabic and Chinese male and female speakers read a paragraph in English with varying L1 influences. Each sample was rated by 30 L2 listeners on a 6-point semantic differential scale assessing status, solidarity, and dynamism. Phonological and fluency analyses of the samples revealed that non-segmental features, such as prosody, play a more significant role in eliciting positive attitudes toward these English varieties than do segmental features. These findings highlight the importance of suprasegmental aspects in shaping listener perceptions of L2 English speech.

Qualitatively Assessing ChatGPT Responses to Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

ChatGPT, a large language model artificial intelligence platform that uses natural language processing, has seen its implementation across a number of sectors, notably in healthcare. However, there remains limited understanding regarding the efficacy of ChatGPT in addressing commonly asked questions on public health subjects. This study aimed to investigate whether ChatGPT could appropriately answer frequently asked questions related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Ten frequently asked questions on STDs were gathered from 25 different government agency websites. The questions were inputted into ChatGPT and subsequent responses were analyzed for accuracy, clarity, and appropriateness using an evidence-based approach on a 4-point grading scale. Of the responses provided by ChatGPT, four were determined to be excellent requiring no clarification and six requiring minimal clarification. No responses were graded as unsatisfactory. Additionally, the responses appropriately emphasized consulting a healthcare specialist. While the majority of responses required minimal clarification, ChatGPT has the potential to be an effective supplementary tool for patient education. Additional research is necessary to explore possible public health strategies that incorporate artificial intelligence to address concerns related to STDs.

Shoves, nudges and combating misinformation: evidence on a new approach

Abstract To what extent can the harms of misinformation be mitigated by relying on nudges? Prior research has demonstrated that non-intrusive ‘accuracy nudges’ can reduce the sharing of misinformation. We investigate an alternative approach. Rather than subtly reminding people about accuracy, our intervention, indebted to research on the bystander effect, explicitly appeals to individuals' capacity to help solve the misinformation challenge. Our results are mixed. On the one hand, our intervention reduces the willingness to share and believe in misinformation fact-checked as false. On the other hand, it also reduces participants' willingness to share information that has been fact-checked as true and innocuous, as well as non-fact-checked information. Experiment 1 offers proof of concept; Experiment 2 tests our intervention with a more realistic mix of true and false social media posts; Experiment 3 tests our interventions alongside an accuracy nudge. The effectiveness of our intervention at reducing willingness to share misinformation remains consistent across experiments; meta-analysis reveals that our treatment reduced willingness to share false content across experiments by 20% of a scale point on a six-point scale. We do not observe the accuracy nudge reducing willingness to share false content. Taken together, these results highlight the advantages and disadvantages of accuracy nudges and our more confrontational approach.

A Pilot Study of the Effectiveness of a Short Course of Rifaximin 2200 mg/day on Abdominal Symptoms and its Effects on Quality of Life in Patients with Moderate to Severe Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Rifaximin is used to treat diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). However, determining the most effective regimen remains a challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a 10-day high-dose course of rifaximin (2200 mg/day) and its effects on both abdominal symptoms and quality of life (QOL) in patients with IBS-D. Adult patients with moderate to severe IBS-D (Rome IV) and fecal urgency and bloating were prescribed rifaximin 1100 mg twice daily for 10 days. Demographic information, the IBS Symptom Severity Index (IBS-SSI) score (using a 7-point Likert scale), and Bristol Stool Scale (BSS) score were recorded at baseline, day 10, and 4 weeks after treatment cessation. IBS Symptom Severity Score (IBS-SSS) and IBS-QOL scores were recorded at baseline and day 10. Any drug adverse effects were recorded. In total, 39 patients completed the study. Average scores for all abdominal symptoms and BSS showed significant improvement at day 10 and 4 weeks after treatment cessation (all p < 0.001). A significant improvement was seen in IBS-SSS and overall IBS-QOL score at day 10 (p < 0.001), with the highest improvement (31%) in interference with activity. Moreover, composite improvement rates were 38.64% for all abdominal symptoms, together with BSS < 5, bi-composite (66.67% for abdominal pain + bloating; 61.54% for abdominal pain + urgency), and 56.41% for tri-composite (abdominal pain + bloating + urgency) symptoms. Notably, no serious adverse effects were reported, and the adherence rate was 94.9%. Abdominal symptoms and overall QOL, especially in social and work dimensions, significantly improved in patients with moderate to severe IBS-D following a regimen of rifaximin 2200 mg/day, which was well tolerated.

Factors influencing self-regulated learning ability among Medical undergraduates in China: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundSelf-regulated learning (SRL) is the core purpose of lifelong learning and the precondition for medical staff to continuously adapt to and excel in their current and future positions. Good SRL abilities positively impact the academic performance and clinical skills of medical students. Despite its importance, the factors influencing SRL among medical students in China remain under-explored. This study investigates these factors among Chinese medical undergraduates.MethodsThis cross-sectional survey was conducted among a convenience sample of undergraduate students at all four medical universities in Guangxi, using a questionnaire developed and tailored by Zude Zhu. Responses from 2,179 Chinese medical undergraduate students were included in the analyses. The data were collected using the College Student SRL Questionnaire which consisted of 69 items rated on a 6-point Likert scale, ranging from 1 (very inconsistent) to 6 (very consistent), and scored by calculating the mean and standard deviation. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 22.0 (IBM SPSS Corp).ResultsUnivariate analysis showed that registered residence, specialty, educational system, parental educational background, parenting style, annual household income, parental occupation, grade point average (GPA), engagement in SRL activities, and participation in SRL training were significantly associated with SRL scores (p < 0.05 for all). The results of the multiple linear regression analysis revealed that educational system (“5 + 3”-year) (p < 0.001; 95% Confidence Interval (CI), 9.842 to 15.686), mother’s occupation (staff of government agency/institution) (p < 0.001; 95% CI, − 3.798 to − 2.081), GPA (p < 0.001; 95% CI, − 10.009 to − 5.712), engagement in SRL activities (p = 0.001; 95% CI, − 11.903 to − 3.162), and participation in SRL training (p < 0.001; 95% CI, − 15.966 to − 9.972) were positively related to SRL abilities in medical students.ConclusionsFurther studies are necessary to identify additional external (e.g., academic environment, parents’ expectations for their children) and internal factors (e.g., student cadres or not, interest in medicine or not, whether there is a clear career planning) affecting SRL abilities. Initiating relevant training early in the college career could enhance SRL capabilities in medical students.

User-Generated Contents and Brand Loyalty of Skinscare Products in Port Harcourt

This paper empirically investigated the relationship between User-Generated Contents and Brand Loyalty of Skincare Products in Port Harcourt. Specifically, the objectives of the study were to determine how user authenticity and user engagement rate relate with customer satisfaction and repeat patronage of skincare products in Port Harcourt. The correlational research design was adopted and the population of the study was infinite. Topman’s formula was used to generate a sample size of 384 customers. However, only 262 respondents provided data for the study through questionnaire that was designed in the Likert 5-point scale of strongly disagree to strongly agree. Spearman Correlation (rho) was used to four hypotheses. From results of the analysis it was revealed that user authenticity and user engagement rate which are the proxies of user-generated contents positively and significantly relate with customer satisfaction and repeat patronage (i.e. measures of brand loyalty) of skincare products in Port Harcourt. Based on these findings, it was concluded that both factors have a very strong and positive impact on customer loyalty, with authenticity playing a particularly crucial role in shaping customer perceptions and trust. The strong relationship between user engagement and repeat patronage further highlights the importance of fostering active and meaningful interactions with customers. Therefore, the study recommended amongst others that skincare brands should encourage genuine customer reviews and testimonials by creating platforms where customers feel comfortable sharing their honest experiences. Authentic content resonates more with potential buyers, fostering trust and leading to higher customer satisfaction and repeat purchases.

Evaluation of a Vendor-Agnostic Deep Learning Model for Noise Reduction and Image Quality Improvement in Dental CBCT

Background/Objectives: To assess the impact of a vendor-agnostic deep learning model (DLM) on image quality parameters and noise reduction in dental cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) reconstructions. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on CBCT scans of 93 patients (41 males and 52 females, mean age 41.2 years, SD 15.8 years) from a single center using the inclusion criteria of standard radiation dose protocol images. Objective and subjective image quality was assessed in three predefined landmarks through contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) measurements and visual assessment using a 5-point scale by three experienced readers. The inter-reader reliability and repeatability were calculated. Results: Eighty patients (30 males and 50 females; mean age 41.5 years, SD 15.94 years) were included in this study. The CNR in DLM reconstructions was significantly greater than in native reconstructions, and the mean CNR in regions of interest 1-3 (ROI1-3) in DLM images was 11.12 ± 9.29, while in the case of native reconstructions, it was 7.64 ± 4.33 (p &lt; 0.001). The noise level in native reconstructions was significantly higher than in the DLM reconstructions, and the mean noise level in ROI1-3 in native images was 45.83 ± 25.89, while in the case of DLM reconstructions, it was 35.61 ± 24.28 (p &lt; 0.05). Subjective image quality assessment revealed no statistically significant differences between native and DLM reconstructions. Conclusions: The use of deep learning-based image reconstruction algorithms for CBCT imaging of the oral cavity can improve image quality by enhancing the CNR and lowering the noise.

Improving Pelvic Floor Muscle Training with AI: A Novel Quality Assessment System for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

The first line of treatment for urinary incontinence is pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training, aimed at reducing leakage episodes by strengthening these muscles. However, many women struggle with performing correct PFM contractions or have misconceptions about their contractions. To address this issue, we present a novel PFM contraction quality assessment system. This system combines a PFM contraction detector with a maximal PFM contraction performance classifier. The contraction detector first identifies whether or not a PFM contraction was performed. Then, the contraction classifier autonomously quantifies the quality of maximal PFM contractions across different features, which are also combined into an overall rating. Both algorithms are based on artificial intelligence (AI) methods. The detector relies on a convolutional neural network, while the contraction classifier uses a custom feature extractor followed by a random forest classifier to predict the strength rating based on the modified Oxford scale. The AI algorithms were trained and tested using datasets measured by vaginal dynamometry, combined in some cases with digital assessment results from expert physiotherapists. The contraction detector was trained on one dataset and then tested on two datasets measured with different dynamometers, achieving 97% accuracy on the first dataset and 100% accuracy on the second. For the contraction performance classifier, the results demonstrate that important clinical features can be extracted automatically with an acceptable error. Furthermore, the contraction classifier is able to predict the strength rating within a ±1 scale point with 97% accuracy. These results demonstrate the system’s potential to enhance PFM training and rehabilitation by enabling women to monitor and improve their PFM contractions autonomously.

Non-invasive system delivering microwaves energy for localized adiposity reduction, skin laxity, and cellulite: Clinical evidence

Localized adiposities are the accumulation of subcutaneous adipose tissue resulting in an alteration of the body silhouette. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of a non-invasive microwaves (MWs) device for the treatment of localized adiposities of the thighs and abdomen. Sixteen women enrolled underwent four sessions with the study device at intervals of 30 days. Clinical evaluation, anthropometric evaluation, ultrasound evaluations, and 3D photographs were performed. Cellulite and skin laxity were evaluated. Patients filled 4-points Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and 10-points Visual Analog Scale. The mean abdominal circumference significantly (P &lt;0.05) decreased 4 weeks after the last treatment, and the mean culotte/thighs circumference significantly (P &lt; 0.05) decreased 4 weeks after the last treatment. Both cellulite and skin laxity were improved. The GAIS scores showed satisfactory results. No adverse effects were observed. This MWs system has been found to be safe and effective in the reduction of body circumferences.

Patient Information Leaflet Feedback on Delusional Infestation.

Delusional parasitosis, also known as Ekbom syndrome, is a poorly understood condition often surrounded by misinformation. Patients and their families frequently encounter skepticism regarding their experiences. This research aimed to create a patient information leaflet (PIL) with a patient centred approach and to gather feedback on its usefulness for sharing information and validating their experiences. To evaluate patient feedback on a newly developed PIL designed for individuals with delusional parasitosis, assessing its perceived usefulness and impact. A survey was administered to 18 patients before their appointments, incorporating the new PIL. The survey included questions on the leaflet's clarity, usefulness, ability to validate patient experiences and other pointers, measured on a 10-point Likert scale (0 = No answer, 1 = Strongly Disagree, 10 = Strongly Agree). Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. Additionally, the final question allowed for written feedback, which was examined through thematic analysis. The survey results revealed that the majority of patients were satisfied with the new PIL. Specifically, 94% agreed or strongly agreed that the leaflet was logical and easy to follow, 72% found it useful for understanding their condition, and 89% felt it validated their experiences. Mean scores for these concepts were 8.83, 7.61, and 7.78, respectively. Thematic analysis of written feedback highlighted themes of improved understanding but uncertainty around acknowledgement of experiences. This new patient-centered PIL for delusional parasitosis was well-received, indicating its potential as a valuable tool for patients and their support networks. By addressing the specific needs and experiences of patients, the leaflet can improve communication and reduce the stigma associated with the condition. Future research should explore long-term impacts and the effectiveness of similar resources in other patient populations.

Development of a core predictor set of weaning in critically ill patients: a Delphi-based study protocol

IntroductionProlonged mechanical ventilation in intensive care units (ICUs) leads to increased morbidity, higher mortality rates, and elevated healthcare costs. Predicting successful weaning from mechanical ventilation with accuracy is essential for optimizing resource use and improving patient outcomes. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework offers a holistic perspective on health conditions and can be adapted to identify key predictors of weaning readiness. This study aims to develop a Delphi-based core predictor set for weaning in critically ill patients, utilizing the ICF model.Methods and analysisThe core predictor set development comprises three steps: (1) Literature review and expert consultation to gather weaning predictors, (2) Predictor alignment with ICF categories per established rules, and (3) Three-round Delphi survey with a multidisciplinary team. A systematic review across major databases will be conducted to identify predictors related to weaning predictors in critically ill adults from cohort studies, trials, and reviews. Predictors will then be categorized within ICF domains. A multidisciplinary expert panel will evaluate the relevance of each predictor using a 9-point Likert scale to achieve consensus.DiscussionThis study will contribute to the development of a standardized, evidence-based predictor set for weaning readiness in critically ill patients. Using the ICF framework, this study aims to encompass the complex factors that influence weaning, thereby enabling personalized care plans and improving weaning outcomes. The Delphi methodology guarantees a thorough, iterative process for building consensus by integrating diverse clinical perspectives.ConclusionThe proposed Delphi-based study protocol aims to establish a core set of predictors for weaning in the ICU setting, guided by the ICF model. Successful implementation of this predictor set could enhance decision-making around weaning trials, reduce unnecessary ventilation days, and ultimately improve patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. Future validation and implementation studies will be essential to confirm the utility and generalizability of this predictor set in clinical practice.