College Of Medicine Research Articles

486 Responsive Neurostimulation of the Centromedian Nucleus of the Thalamus in Adult Epilepsy: Multi-center Case Series

INTRODUCTION: Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) is an FDA-approved therapy for focal drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Emerging evidence supports a role for RNS in DRE with regional, multifocal, or non-resectable seizure onset zones. The centromedian nucleus of the thalamus (CMT) is a promising target, although descriptions of predictors of longer-term response are lacking. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent RNS implantation with at least one CMT electrode at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) and the University of Utah (UoU) from 2019-2023. Patients with = 6 months of follow-up were assessed for changes in clinical seizure frequency following surgery, as well as changes in seizure severity and subjective quality-of-life (QoL). RESULTS: Sixteen patients underwent CMT RNS (n = 12 BCM, n = 4 UoU) at a median age of 30 years [range 20-51] with a median 19-year history of epilepsy. All patients were evaluated by a multidisciplinary team that recommended thalamic RNS. Thirteen underwent bilateral CMT implantation and 7 had a documented lesional effect (>50% reduction in seizures in the months following implantation). Thirteen patients had = 6-month follow-up with which to do subsequent seizure outcome analysis. In these patients, with a median follow-up of 18 months [6-40], median clinical seizure reduction was 80% [0-100%], 2 patients were seizure free for 6 months, and 1 was seizure free for 40 months. Patients with a lesional effect had a median 87% seizure reduction at last follow-up while those without a lesional effect had a 51% seizure reduction (two-tailed, two-sample t-test, p = 0.04). Subjective reduced seizure severity and increased QoL was documented in 92% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: RNS of the CMT can result in robust seizure frequency, severity, and QoL improvements in patients with DRE. Post-implantation lesional effect may be associated with longer-term improved response.

Euroson POCUS School Vienna University of Medicine, Austria and also online, on 6–7 September 2024, chaired by Dr. Mihai Iacob, EUVEKUS President.

Euroson POCUS School Vienna University of Medicine, Austria and also online, on 6–7 September 2024, chaired by Dr. Mihai Iacob, EUVEKUS President.

FITNESS AND WELLNESS ACCORDING TO COACHING DIRECTION CONCEPTUAL APPROACH

In the last decade, in the world health maintenance and fitness of the field development along with, various reasons according to physical exercise with depends individuals to the concept of " coaching ". interest increased. Indeed, American Sports medicine college information according to fitness according to coaching and health according to coaching is also in the world fitness trends according to the first to ten enters This of research purpose health storage and fitness institutions and managers and their employees for fitness and wellness concepts clarification through their differences open is to give.

The clinical significance of monitoring serum levels of glutathione peroxidase and selenium in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

[Objective] This study aims to analyze the levels of the trace element selenium (Se), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the serum of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared to women with normal menstrual cycles. By examining the relationship between Se levels, oxidative stress (OS), and PCOS, the study provides a theoretical basis for the supplementation of the potent antioxidant Se in women with PCOS, aiming to improve the prevention and management of PCOS and reduce its complications.[Methods] Sixty-six females diagnosed with PCOS for the first time from June 2022 to June 2023 at the Shenzhen Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine (Futian) were selected as the observation group. Sixty-eight healthy volunteers with regular menstrual cycles were randomly selected as the control group. Serum levels of GSH-Px, TAC, and Se were measured and statistically analyzed for both groups.[Results] Serum levels of Se, TAC, and GSH-Px were significantly lower in the observation group compared to the control group (P<0.05), indicating a statistically significant difference.[Conclusion] The deficiency of the trace element Se leads to a reduction in OS indicators, including levels of GSH-Px and TAC. It is inferred that Se deficiency may be associated with the pathogenesis of PCOS to a certain extent.

Attitudes of Dental Students Towards E-learning

Objective: In this digital technology era, we want to see the attitudes of dental students toward E-learning, what sort of resources are they using and their preference for e-learning. Study Design: Descriptive Cross-sectional study. Settings: University College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Lahore, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: 17-09-22 to 15-12-22. Methods: This was a descriptive Cross-sectional study conducted at the University College of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Lahore, Lahore Pakistan. A pre-validated questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25. Results: Most of the participants agreed that e-learning helped them complete the learning activities more quickly. Almost 62.90% of participants agreed that e-learning enhanced their studies. 54.70% agreed that e-learning is a useful tool for distance education and 63.50% agreed that e-learning encourages them to search for extra material and resources. 40.90% of participants agreed that e-learning improves their learning efficiency. 49.70% agreed that the e-learning content is informative. Conclusion: E-learning has revolutionized dental education by providing greater accessibility, convenience, engagement, cost-effectiveness, and continuing education opportunities. It has made learning more inclusive and has expanded the reach of dental education beyond traditional boundaries. E-learning is no doubt the future of dental education.

Stuydy on hospital meal service satisfaction and associated factors among inpatients of internal departments at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy hospital in 2022

Aims: This study aims to determine patient satisfaction with hospital meal service and find out some related factors among inpatients of Internal Departments at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital in 2022. Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study, using questionnaires survey, was conducted on 255 inpatients in Internal Departments at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy hospital. Results: 67.1% of inpatients were satisfied with hospital meal service in our study. Some factors related to hospital meal service satisfaction included education level, length of stay in hospi- tal, appetite, quantity and quality of food, taste, cooking method, food hygiene, eating utensils cleanliness, food delivery time, service attitude, food deliverer’s uniform, comfort when enjoying a meal, meal price, and service fee payment method. Conclusion: Patient satisfaction with the hospital's meals is low among those receiving inpatient treatment in Internal departments. Keywords: satisfaction, hospital meal service, inpatient treatment

PARTICULARITIES OF PLACING THE CERVICAL LIMITS OF PROSTHETIC CROWNS WITH IMPLANT SUPPORT – CASE SERIES

In implant-prosthetics, individualized implant abutments have become a popular subject of interest. Their position, height and shape can be individualized. Abutments can be made of materials such as zirconium oxide, lithium disilicate or hybrid materials. The purpose of this research was to exemplify, through a series of cases, various particularities of the placement of the cervical limits of prosthetic restorations with implant support. Materials and method This study is retrospective and was carried out by analyzing the images belonging to the cases from the archive of the Faculty of Dental Medicine of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Craiova. The selected cases belonged to partially edentulous patients who benefited from fixed implant-prosthetic treatment performed through the digital protocol. Results After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 23 cases were selected. For this article, images belonging to several cases were used to exemplify the particularities of the cervical limits of prosthetic crowns with implant support. Conclusions If in the lateral area or on the oral surfaces it is recommended to place the cervical limit as close as possible to the gingival margin or even supragingival to favor the maintenance of peri-implant health, in the frontal area the aesthetic requirements demand a deeper subgingival placement of the cervical limit of the implant abutment.

Morphological Evaluation and Immunohistochemical Analysis of the Reparative Potential of the Buccal Fat Pad.

Background and Objectives: There are many surgical techniques for oroantral communication treatment, one of which is the buccal fat pad. Of particular interest is the high reparative potential of the buccal fat pad, which may be contributed to by the presence of mesenchymal stem cells. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the reparative potential of BFP cells using morphological and immunohistochemical examination. Materials and Methods: 30 BFP samples were provided by the Clinic of Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery of the Russian University of Medicine (Moscow, Russia) from 28 patients. Morphological examination of 30 BFP samples was performed at the Institute of Clinical Morphology and Digital Pathology of Sechenov University. Hematoxylin-eosin, Masson trichrome staining and immunohistochemical examination were performed to detect MSCs using primary antibodies CD133, CD44 and CD10. Results: During staining with hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome, we detected adipocytes of white adipose tissue united into lobules separated by connective tissue layers, a large number of vessels of different calibers, as well as the general capsule of BFP. The thin connective tissue layers contained neurovascular bundles. Statistical processing of the results of the IHC examination of the samples using the Mann-Whitney criterion revealed that the total number of samples in which the expression of CD44, CD10 and CD133 antigens was confirmed was statistically significantly higher than the number of samples where the expression was not detected (p < 0.05). Conclusions: During the morphological study of the BFP samples, we revealed statistically significant signs of MSCs presence (p < 0.05), including in the brown fat tissue, which proves the high reparative potential of this type of tissue and can make the BFP a choice option among other autogenous donor materials when eliminating OAC and other surgical interventions in the maxillofacial region.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE TOTAL EDENTULOUS PROSTHETIC FIELD MORPHOLOGY IN THE DESIGN OF CONVENTIONAL COMPLETE DENTURES

The complete denture has the role of reproducing the missing dental and maxillary structures: teeth, gums and facial contours, ensuring a harmonious integration with the patient’s remaining features. The main objective of this study aims to evaluate the knowledge of dental students and dentists regarding complete denture. Material and method. The evaluation of the knowledge among students and dentists regarding the prosthetics of the complete edentulism was carried out by the questionnaire method. The study was attended by students of the Faculty of Dental Medicine of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Craiova and dentists, from the urban environment. Results. Regarding the sources of information, 26% of the participants mentioned that the main source of information was represented by specialized books, 86% of the participants believed that the patient’s general state of health influences the morphology of the total edentulous prosthetic field. 74 of the participants stated that the installation of the “suction cup” phenomenon between the mucosal face of the prosthesis and the fully edentulous prosthetic field is the main factor for achieving the suction of the complete denture. 44% of the respondents considered that the main factor contributing to the stability of a complete denture is the anatomical retentiveness Conclusions. The complete denture plays an essential role in the restoration of the dento-maxillary system by ensuring the morphological and functional rehabilitation of totally edentulous arches.

The Effects of Traditional Chinese Herbal Dietary Formula on the Ability of Daily Life and Physical Function in Elderly Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment.

We aimed to examine the association of traditional Chinese herbal dietary formulas with ability of daily life and physical function in elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment. The current study included 60 cases of elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment from Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Hongkou District, Shanghai. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: group A (herbal dietary formula group, consisting of Alpiniae Oxyphyllae Fructus, Nelumbinis plumula, Chinese Yam, Poria cocos, and Jineijin), 30 cases, and group B (vitamin E), 30 cases, treatment for 3 months. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE); body function was measured using the Chinese Simplified Physical Performance Test (CMPPT), including stand static balance, sitting-up timing, squat timing, and six-meter walk timing. Daily life based on ability was measured by grip strength and the Activity of Daily Living Scale (ADL). The lower the scores of the above items, the poorer the disease degree, except for ADL: the lower the score, the higher the self-care ability. After 3 months of treatment, the two-handed grip strength of both the herbal dietary formula group and vitamin E group increased; the ADL, sitting-up timing, squatting timing, and six-meter walking timing decreased after medication, being statistically significantly different (p < 0.05). The two-handed grip strength of group A increased significantly, and the ADL, sitting-up timing, squatting timing, and six-meter walking timing decreased distinctly compared with the vitamin E group. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). The scores of MMSE, MOCA, total CMPPT, and standing static balance of the herbal dietary formula group increased after medication. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The vitamin E group's MMSE and MOCA scores, CMPPT total scores, and standing resting balance scores did not change significantly after medication (p > 0.05). In summary, a traditional Chinese herbal dietary formula can improve body and cognitive function in patients with MCI, and the curative effect is better than that of vitamin E. Traditional Chinese herbal dietary formulas can improve the daily life quality of MCI patients, which has clinical application value.

Two-Center Comparison of Viral Hepatitis A, B, C Seroprevalence among the 18-25 Age Group

Objective: Viral hepatitis is inflammation of the liver due to a viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide, causing thousands of deaths due to acute-chronic infection, liver cancer and cirrhosis. This study is aimed to compare datas of the seroprevalence of markers for viral hepatitis A, B, C among 18-25 age group outpatient clinic patients and healthcare workers between the two University Hospitals from east and west zone of Turkey. Material and Methods: The data of a total of 562 patients and healthcare workers, aged between 18 and 25, who applied to the outpatient clinic at Sütçü İmam University Faculty of Medicine and Onsekiz Mart University Faculty of Medicine Hospital between 01.01.2022 and 01.07.2022, were retrospectively examined. The presence of serological markers against HAV, HBV, HCV and HIV was tested with the ELISA method. Results: Anti-HAV IgG positivity was 25.5% and 40.3% for Çanakkale and Kahramanmaraş, respectively. Anti-HAV seropositivity rate in Kahramanmaraş was statistically significantly higher than in Çanakkale (P&amp;lt;0.001). Anti-HBs positivity was found to be 74.5% and 75.4% for Çanakkale and Kahramanmaraş, which were similar to each other bulundu (P=0.458). HBsAg positivity was detected as 1.5% in Çanakkale and 0.8% in Kahramanmaraş. There was no significant difference between the two cities (P = 0.810). Anti-HCV was found to be positive in one (0.5%) patient in Çanakkale and in four (1.1%) patients in Kahramanmaraş. Anti-HCV positivity was higher in Kahramanmaraş and anti-HIV positivity was higher in Çanakkale (P=.03, P&amp;lt;0.001). It was detected that anti-HBs positivity (80.7%) was higher in HCWs and anti-HAV IgG positivity was higher in non-HCWs (38.4%) (P=.042, P=0.013). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of anti-HCV and anti-HIV positivity. Conclusion: Due to the low anti-HAV seropositivity rates in the 18-25 age group, this makes this group more risky in terms of HAV infection. Especially due to the anti-HAV positivity in Çanakkale is low compared to Kahramanmaraş, it is recommended to support vaccination in this region. Since health care workers are at risk of having and transmitting hepatitis, it was found to be appropriate getting prevention measures by screening against vaccine-preventable diseases.

A Benchmark Survey of the Delivery of Clinical Education in Small-Animal Primary-Care Clinical Programs Among Member Institutions of the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges

While primary-care clinical rotations are well established and have been incorporated into veterinary colleges over the past 50 years, standardization of teaching small-animal primary care across veterinary colleges is unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore and document variations and similarities in the delivery of small-animal primary-care clinical education curricula among member programs of the American Association of Veterinary Medicine Colleges (AAVMC). A comprehensive, 114-question online survey was conducted, comprised of seven sections, including Rotation Logistics; House Officers; Procedures performed; Rounds; Spectrum of Care; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Assessment; Leadership roles; and Research. Of the 52 AAVMC institutions worldwide at the time of the survey, 69% (36/52) of programs responded, of which 86% (31/36) met inclusion criteria and were retained for analysis. Results revealed primary-care services report seeing a mean of 75.84 cases per week (median 70, range 20–180, SD 37.34, n = 29), which serve as educational experiences for veterinary students rotating through the service, including the practice of hands-on clinical skills (including surgical procedures), discussing “flexible treatment care options” with clients, and actively leading cases. Length and size of a primary-care rotation varied with a mean duration of 3 weeks (median 2, range 2–12, SD 2.02, n = 29) and mean of 10 students (median 8.5, range 5–36, SD 5.87, n = 28) per rotation. This study highlights the current state of primary-care veterinary clinical education and provides descriptive data that might serve as a basis to guide future development of primary-care curricula across clinical programs.

Prevalence of Imposter Syndrome and Its Risk Factors Among University of Sharjah Medical Students.

Background Imposter syndrome describes an internal experience of intellectual fraud, where individuals attribute their academic or occupational endeavors and achievements primarily to luck rather than to their diligent efforts. Additionally, the stringent standards and prerequisites set by medical institutions create an environment conducive to impostorism among medical students. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and severity of imposter syndrome among medical students at the University of Sharjah. Methodology This research was designed as a descriptive cross-sectional study. A total of 400 participants enrolled in the study using non-probability convenience sampling, but 399 participants, 49.4% (197) from colleges of medicine and 50.6% (202) from dentistry, successfully completed the questionnaire. Participants completed a questionnaire containing the Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale. Statistical associations between variables were tested using the chi-square test. Individuals with chronic medical conditions or those using medications with known psychiatric side effects were excluded. Results The analyzed sample comprised 399 students, with 64.7% females and 35.3% males. Most respondents were from year 2 (21.3%, 85), while the fewest were from year 5 (18.3%, 73). The majority of students fell into the categories of moderate (46.4%, 185) and frequent (35.8%, 143) imposter experiences. Among all investigated characteristics, pure academic factors such as field of study (p = 0.001), study phases (p = 0.032), advisor's attitude (p = 0.029), and comparison with peers' performance and grades (p = 0.024 and <0.001, respectively) exhibited the highest significant association with the severity of imposter syndrome. Conclusions This study revealed a high prevalence of imposter syndrome among medical students, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies and interventions targeting academically associated risk factors to alleviate the burden of imposter syndrome.

Comparison of the effects of using feedback devices for training or simulated cardiopulmonary arrest

BackgroundHigh-quality chest compression is essential for successful cardiac arrest resuscitation. High-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can effectively improve the survival rate of patients with cardiopulmonary arrest. However, bystanders untrained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation may provide inadequate chest compressions. Previous studies have shown that the use of feedback devices in training alone or in simulated cardiopulmonary arrest alone can improve cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This study aims to determine whether using an audiovisual feedback (AVF) device during CPR training or a simulated cardiopulmonary arrest (CA) scenario would be more effective in improving the quality of chest compressions (CC).MethodsWe use a prospective, randomized, 2 × 2 factorial design trial. A total of 160 participants from Wuhan University and senior clinical medicine undergraduates who had not participated in any CPR training before and had no actual CPR experience are recruited. Each participant is randomized to 1 of 4 permutations, including AVF device vs. no AVF device during CPR training and AVF device vs. no AVF device during simulated CA. Main outcomes and measures are the depth, the percentage of CCs with correct depth (5–6 cm), the rate of CCs, and the percentage of CCs with the correct rate (100–120 cpm).ResultsThe use of the AVF device during simulated CA resulted in improved CC quality. In CA without AVF device, the average compression depth and the percentage of adequate depth with AVF device are 5.1 cm, 5.0 cm and 55.5%, 56.3%, respectively, which are higher than those without AVF device (4.5 cm, 4.7 cm and 32.8%, 33.6%). (p = 0.011, p = 0.000, both < 0.05).Compared with CA without AVF device, the average compression rate and the percentage of adequate rate with AVF device are 112.3 cpm, 111.2 cpm and 79.4%, 83.1%, respectively. The average compression rate and the percentage of adequate rate without using the AVF device are 112.4 cpm, 110.3 cpm and 71.5%, 68.5%, respectively. (p = 0.567 > 0.05, p = 0.017 < 0.05)Although the average compression rate in group D is slightly lower than that in group C, the percentage of suitable frequency with the feedback device is still higher than that without AVF device.ConclusionUsing a feedback device during simulated cardiopulmonary arrest is more effective in improving cardiopulmonary resuscitation than during training.

Anatomical Exploration of the KI1 Acupoint: Implications for Medial and Lateral Plantar Nerve Stimulation.

Background and Objectives: This study aims to identify the precise anatomical location and therapeutic mechanisms of the KI1 acupoint (Yongquan) in relation to foot muscles and nerves, known for treating neurological disorders and pain. Materials and Methods: Dissection of six cadavers at Chungnam National University College of Medicine examined KI1's relation to the foot's four-layer structure. Results: The KI1 acupoint was located in the superficial and deep layers of the plantar foot, adjacent to significant nerves like the medial and lateral plantar nerves. Differences in the acupoint's exact location between genders were noted, reflecting variances in foot morphology. KI1 acupuncture was found to stimulate the muscle spindles and nerve fibers essential for balance and bipedal locomotion. This stimulation may enhance sensory feedback, potentially improving cognitive functions and balance control. Conclusions: This anatomical insight into KI1 acupuncture underpins its potential in neurological therapies and pain management.

Examination-Related Stress Leads to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Medical and Dental Students - An Institutional-Based Study

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/strong&gt; Stress-related behaviors such as challenging academic atmosphere and rigorous examinations exert a negative impact on the normal function of temporomandibular joint. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) and their association with examination-related stress among medical (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) and dental (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) students.&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This cross-sectional survey was conducted at Fatima Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan, from June 2022 to November 2022 using the Fonseca&amp;rsquo;s Questionnaire. A total of 198 medical and dental students were included as study participants. They were required to select just 1 response for each of the 10 items mentioned in the adopted but customized and validated questionnaire. TMD was categorized as mild, moderate, severe, or no TMD based on the sum of these responses. The data were analysed using statistical software and a p-value less than or equal to 0.05 was set as significant.&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; There were 52 (26.2%) males and 146 (73.7%) females with a mean age of 24.2 +1.22 years. Among 198 students, 104 were dental students while 94 were medical students. The prevalence of TMD was found to be 63.6% among all students. There was no TMD in 36.4% of students while 42.9% of students had mild TMD, and moderate and severe TMD was found in 14.1% and 6.6% of students, respectively. Mild (74%) and severe (6.7%) TMD were more prevalent in dental students than in medical students while moderate TMD was found more in medical students (16%). However, these differences were statistically not significant between dental and medical students (p &amp;gt; 0.005).&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/strong&gt; TMD was found in both medical and dental students with no significant difference in severity between them. The study indicates the need to take on certain preventive and therapeutic strategies to address this disorder among anxiety-prone medical and dental students.&lt;/p&gt;

Диагностика и лечение синдрома болезненного мочевого пузыря: результаты опроса врачей урологов РФ.

Introduction. Interstitial cystitis (IC) remains one of the causes of chronic pelvic pain. Current treatment methods do not allow complete control of the patient's symptoms. The lack of uniform diagnostic and treatment algorithms motivates specialists to use the recommendations of communities, which may differ from each other. The purpose of the study is to study the approaches of Russian doctors to the diagnosis and treatment of IC. Material and methods. The Department of Urology of the Russian University of Medicine conducted an observational analytical study from 2022 to 2023: a survey of urologists in order to study the issue of diagnosis and treatment of IC in the Russian Federation. Respondents were asked 25 questions. 86 urologists took part in the survey, 57 of them fully answered all the questions asked. The survey was possible through the online platform SurveyMonkey based on the urological portal Uroweb.ru. Statistical analysis. Methods of descriptive statistics were used for the purpose of data analysis. Results. Specialists from more than 5 regions of the Russian Federation participated in the survey. 33% (19) of the respondents would prefer to use options not recommended by large communities to treat IC. 68% (39) of the respondents reported urinary tract infection in patients with IC. 54% (31) of the respondents would prefer to use cystoscopy under local anesthesia for initial diagnosis. Cystoscopy under general anesthesia is more informative in 81% (46), biopsy is taken by 75% (43) of specialists. The most popular treatments are behavioral and non-pharmacological therapies in 74% (42), therapies aimed at repairing the bladder mucosa in 79% (45), and intravesical pharmacotherapy in 77% (44). Botulinum therapy is used by 66% (38) of specialists. Repeat surgical treatment is suggested after an average of 6-12 months, but there are no minimal intervals. Conclusion. The problem of IC continues to remain relevant and requires not only a revision of the definition, but also improvement of approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

“Examining the link between tooth agenesis and papillary thyroid cancer: is there a risk factor?” Observational study

BackgroundMutations in one or multiple genes can lead to hypodontia and its characteristic features. Numerous studies have shown a strong genetic influence on the occurrence of hypodontia, and identified several genes, including AXIN2, EDA, FGF3, FGFR2, FGFR10, WNT10A, MSX1, and PAX9, that are directly associated with dental agenesis and carcinogenesis. The objective of this study was to investigate the occurrence and pattern of tooth agenesis, microdontia, and palatally displaced canine (PDC) in women diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), compared to a control group of women without any malignancy or thyroid disease.Materials and methodsThis case–control study was carried at the Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine University of Zagreb, and Department of Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Sestre Milosrdnice University Hospital Centre. The study involved a clinical examination and evaluation of dental status, panoramic X-ray analysis, and assessment of medical and family history of 116 female patients aged 20–40 with PTC, as well as 424 females in the control group who were of similar age.ResultsThe prevalence of hypodontia, microdontia, and PDC was statistically higher in women with PTC than in the control group. The prevalence rate of hypodontia was 11.3% in the experimental group and 3.5% in the control group. The experimental group showed a higher occurrence of missing upper lateral incisors, lower left central incisors, and all the third molars (except the upper left) compared to the control group. Women with PTC showed the prevalence of PDC significantly higher than the control group (3.5%, 0.7%, p = 0.002). The probability of hypodontia as a clinical finding increases 2.6 times, and microdontia occurs 7.7 times more frequently in women with PTC.ConclusionOur study suggests a possible link between odontogenesis and PTC. The absence of permanent teeth may increase the likelihood of PTC in women. Leveraging the age-7 orthopantomogram to identify women at high risk for PTC within a critical early detection window could significantly improve oral health outcomes and PTC prognosis through proactive interventions.

World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies (WFAS) Technical Benchmark of Acupuncture and Moxibustion: Electroacupuncture: 世界针灸学会联合会标准《针灸技术操作规范:电针》

World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies (WFAS) Technical Benchmark of Acupuncture and Moxibustion: Electroacupuncture, developed under the leadership of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, was approved by WFAS. This technical benchmark was issued on October 9, 2023, and implemented on December 31, 2023. The main contents include the scope, normative references, terms and definitions, acupuncture and moxibustion procedures and rules, and safety. This article focuses on the above contents. An outlook on the application, popularization, and update plan of this technical benchmark is proposed.

The Influence of Lifestyle on Academic Performance Among Health Profession Students at Umm Al-Qura University.

Background and aim A healthy lifestyle is defined as a way of living that reduces the likelihood of severe illness or early death. Factors required for a healthy lifestyle, such as regular physical activity, better sleep patterns, improved dietary habits, probable caffeine consumption, and decreased feelings of anxiety, are generally assumed to be important for high academic performance. This study aims to investigate the correlation between a healthy lifestyle and academic success among health profession students at Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia. By doing so, we could potentially lead to the implementation of targeted interventions to support students in achieving their best academic potential. Methods This is an observational cross-sectional study conducted among health profession students at Umm Al-Qura University. An online questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic information and the impact of lifestyle characteristics on academic performance from October to November 2023. Data were analyzed using RStudio (R version 4.3.1). Results A total of 652 students participated in the study. The majority were between the ages of 18 and 25 years (97.2%, n=634). Females constituted the majority of the participants (69.9%, n=456). Regarding the field of study, the College of Medicine had the highest representation (52.9%, n=345). Regarding body mass index, the normal weight category was the most prevalent, encompassing 59.8% (n=390) of the participants. The results show that the participants generally had a good grade point average (GPA) in the range of 3.50 to 4.00. Also, the time spent on social media applications was not correlated with academic performance (P=0.575). Importantly, the majority of participants perceived that lifestyle habits impacted their academic performance. Conclusion This study found that unhealthy lifestyle factors, such as lack of physical activity, inadequate sleep, poor dietary choices, smoking, and mental health issues such as anxiety, have a negative impact on academic performance. Therefore, the dissemination of relevant knowledge is needed to promote the importance of a healthy lifestyle and raise students' awareness.