Control Group Mean Research Articles

Effect of simulation-based zoom learning on clinical decision-making among undergraduate nursing students and experiences of students and instructors: A mixed methods study

AimTo determine the effect of simulation-based Zoom learning (SBZL) on perceived capabilities and clinical decision-making skills among undergraduate nursing students and to explore experiences of the instructors and students participating in SBZL. BackgroundNursing is a practice profession and students acquire clinical decision-making skills in clinical settings. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted conventional clinical learning activities. In this study, the outcomes of implementing SBZL in an undergraduate programme to support students’ clinical learning were examined. DesignA mixed methods design was employed. MethodsThis study recruited 195 final-year students to participate in the SBZL programme, which was developed based on the NLN Jeffries Simulation Theory to guide its design, implementation and evaluation. Case scenarios were developed and simulated through Zoom. Students’ perceived capabilities, perceptions of the learning environment and clinical decision-making skills were assessed before and after SBZL. A historical control group of 226 previous final year students who had received a clinical practicum was included for comparison. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 instructors and 19 students to explore their experiences of participating in SBZL. ResultsA total of 102 students completed the post-SBZL questionnaire. An increase in perceived creative thinking (mean difference = 0.24, p < 0.001) was observed post-SBZL. After SBZL, the perceptions of the learning environment were significantly improved. However, the SBZL group demonstrated lower perceived problem-solving capability than the control group (mean difference = 0.14, p = 0.007). Clinical decision-making was significantly improved in the SBZL group than in the control group (p < 0.001). Both the instructors and students reported positive experiences with SBZL, and highlighted challenges and factors for improving its implementation. ConclusionsSBZL showed improvement in perceived creative thinking, perceptions of the learning environment and clinical decision-making. This innovative teaching and learning method can be valuable for nursing education in various regions to prepare students for real-life roles. Tweetable abstractSimulation-based Zoom learning is better than traditional teaching in improving clinical decision-making skills among undergraduate nursing students.

The effect of peer mentoring program on clinical academic progress and psychological characteristics of operating room students: a parallel randomized controlled trial

BackgroundOne of the new educational systems is the mentorship method. This study aimed to investigate the effect of peer mentoring program on clinical academic progress and psychological characteristics of operating room students.MethodsThis research was a randomized controlled trial that was conducted on undergraduate students in the operating room department of Khomein Faculty of Medical Sciences, Markazi Province in Iran. The number of operating room students were 70 that were divided into intervention and control groups by random allocation using Permuted Block Randomization. Inclusion criteria included all operating room students who were in internship, and exclusion criteria included failure to complete the questionnaires. The data collection tools were the demographic questionnaire, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Situational Motivational Scale. In the control group, clinical training was done in the traditional way. In the intervention group, training was done by peer mentoring method. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, paired t-test, chi-square test, ANCOVA, univariable and multivariable linear regression.ResultsThe study revealed significant differences between the intervention and control groups. Post-intervention, the intervention group demonstrated substantial increases in self-confidence (mean difference = 5.97, p < 0.001) and significant reductions in stress levels (mean difference = -3.22, p < 0.001). Conversely, minimal changes were noted in the control group for both self-confidence (mean difference = 0.057, p = 0.934) and stress levels (mean difference = 0.142, p = 0.656). Although both groups experienced decreases in anxiety and depression levels, these changes were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the intervention significantly enhanced academic progress in the intervention group compared to the control group (mean difference = 20.31, p < 0.001).ConclusionThe results showed that the implementation of the peer mentoring program was effective in improving academic progress, self-confidence, and reducing the stress of operating room students. Therefore, this educational method can be used in addition to the usual methods to improve the education of operating room students.

Effects of Co-Curricular Activities on Academic Performance of Elementary School Students

Background: Co-curricular activities (CCAs) have been increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in enhancing both academic performance and overall student development. These activities complement traditional learning by fostering a range of skills crucial for personal and academic growth. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effects of co-curricular activities on the academic performance of sixth-grade students at Government Girls High School Bharth, Sialkot, providing insights into how these activities influence educational outcomes. Methods: A quantitative, experimental design was employed involving 98 sixth-grade students who were randomly assigned to either the experimental (n=36) or control group (n=36). The intervention included various CCAs such as drama, quiz, painting, and sports over two months. Data were collected using pre- and post-tests from the Urdu textbooks, with the results analyzed using SPSS version 25 to conduct t-tests and calculate means and standard deviations. Results: The pre-test results showed no significant difference between the groups (experimental group mean=14.97, SD=2.560; control group mean=14.03, SD=2.667; p=.131). Post-intervention, the experimental group exhibited a significant improvement in scores (mean=16.69, SD=2.806) compared to the control group (mean=12.69, SD=3.206), with p&lt;.0001 indicating a substantial impact of CCAs on student performance. Conclusion: The study confirms that engagement in co-curricular activities significantly boosts academic performance among students, suggesting that such activities should be integral to educational curricula to promote comprehensive student development.

Interleukin 1 Alpha Gene Polymorphism in Breast Cancer After Chemotherapy Treatment

Abstract Background: The interleukin 1 (IL-1) family of cytokines is essential for triggering and controlling immunological and inflammatory responses. We believe the levels of these cytokines in breast tumor homogenates relate to other known prognosticators of patient survival. Objectives: The association between the risk of breast tumors and the IL-1 alpha −889 C&gt;T Promoter Primer polymorphism has been established. Interleukin 1 alpha −889 C&gt;T Promoter Primer has been proven to influence breast tumor susceptibility. Our research aimed to determine whether the IL-1 alpha −889 C&gt;T Promoter Primer gene polymorphism and susceptibility to Breast cancers (BCs) are related. Materials and Methods: The genotype frequencies of the IL-1 alpha −889 C&gt;T Promoter Primer polymorphism were compared between 100 BC cases and 50 controls with the assistance of polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism techniques. Additional multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were carried out to determine the level of IL-1 in patients’ blood and to examine the association between the IL-1 alpha −889 C&gt;T Promoter Primer polymorphism and BC risk utilizing the ELISA technique after therapy. Results: The concentration of CA 15-3 in patients with BC was 101.107 increase significantly compare with mean of control group was 62.802, in chemotherapy patients genotype frequencies of TT, CT, CC of IL-1 alpha −889 C&gt;T gene polymorphism where it patients with genotype TT were affected by breast tumors approximately one time comparison with patients having genotype CT (odd ratio = 1.50 and 0.91). Conclusion: Concentration of CA 15-3 increase in patients after chemotherapy compared with healthy, The IL-1 alpha −889 C&gt;T polymorphism affects breast tumors in women.

Cytotoxic effect of dental luting cement on human gingival mesenchymal stem cell and evaluation of cytokines and growth factor release - An in vitro study.

In routine dental care, various dental luting cements are utilized to cement the dental prosthesis. Thus, the aim of the current study was to assess the Cytotoxic effect of three different dental luting cements on human gingival mesenchymal stem cell and evaluation of cytokines and growth factors release. Cytotoxicity of glass ionomer cement (GIC), resin modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) and resin cement (RC) on the human gingival mesenchymal stem cells (HGMSCs) was evaluated. Amongst the cements tested, least cytotoxic cement was further tested for the release of cytokines and growth factors. MTT test was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the dental luting cements at 1 h, 24 h, and 48 h on HGMSCs. Cytokines such as interleukin (IL) 1α & IL 8 and growth factors such as platelet derived growth factor & transforming growth factor beta release from the least cytotoxic RC was evaluated using flow cytometry analysis. The mean absorbance values by MTT assay and cell viability at various time intervals between four groups were compared using a one way analysis of variance test and Tukey's post hoc test. The least cytotoxic RC group and the control group's mean levels of cytokines and growth factors were compared using the Mann-Whitney test. As exposure time increased, the dental luting cement examined in this study were cytotoxic. RC was the least cytotoxic, RMGIC was moderate and glass ionomer cement showed the highest cytotoxic effect. Concomitantly, a significant positive biological response of gingival mesenchymal stem cells with the release of ILs when exposed to the RC was observed. For a fixed dental prosthesis to be clinically successful over the long term, it is imperative that the biocompatibility of the luting cement be taken into account in order to maintain a healthy periodontium surrounding the restoration.

Dialysis in Critically Ill Patients with Hypokalemia: A Challenge to Beat by Adjusting Potassium Bath in Dialysate

Acute renal injury (ARI) is common in critically ill patients and frequently makes renal replacement therapy necessary. Low serum potassium level is associated with arrhythmias and mortality in critically ill patients. Adjusting dialysate fluid potassium to higher level helps preventing post hemodialysis hypokalemia. Objective: To establish role of high potassium dialysate in management of hypokalemia in critically ill patients undergoing renal replacement therapy for ARI. Methods: We did a pilot study and performed a cohort on critically ill patients who developed acute renal injury and required renal replacement therapy for acute indications. We designed two groups each consisting 50 patients. Control group underwent hemodialysis with conventional dialysate. For interventional group, we added potassium bath of 3.0meq/l. Pre and post hemodialysis serum potassium levels were measured results mentioned in the form of bar chart. Results: For intervention group mean pre and post hemodialysis serum potassium levels were 3.43±0.36mg/dl and 4.45±5.00mg/dl respectively with no statistically significant difference in pre and post hemodialysis potassium (p=0.156). While, for control group mean pre and post hemodialysis serum potassium levels were 3.69±0.38mg/dl and 2.97±0.29mg/dl respectively. Difference in pre-post mean serum potassium in control group was statistically significant (p&lt;0.001). Furthermore, three patients in control group developed atrial fibrillation in which hypokalemia was confirmed by laboratory testing. Conclusions: Acute dialysis in critical care on hypokalemic patients can be performed safely by adjusting potassium bath in dialysate.

Prophylaxis of microvascular thrombosis using direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in microvascular free tissue transplantation – a pilot study

IntroductionWe conducted this pilot study to assess direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in the prevention of microvascular thrombosis. Materials and methodsFive patients undergoing microvascular free tissue transplantation received rivaroxaban or apixaban (depending on their home medication). We compared this group to 19 patients who received enoxaparin subcutaneously. We evaluated the rate of graft loss due to microvascular thrombosis and the number of transfusions administered intra- and postoperatively. ResultsThere was no graft loss due to microvascular thrombosis in either of the groups. There was no significant difference in the number of intraoperative (study group mean 1.00 (SE 0.32) vs. control group mean 1.11 (SE 0.59); p = 0.876) and postoperative (study group mean 1.2 (SE 0.37) vs. control group mean 1.74 (SE 0.34); p = 0.310) red blood cell transfusions. ConclusionBased on our results in this pilot study, DOACs can be used with microvascular flaps. Further studies with larger sample sizes should be performed to find an optimal medication regimen both for patients already taking DOACs and perhaps even for those not taking DOACs.

Effects of a Problem-Based Learning Education Program for Occupational Health Nursing Using Smart Learning on Occupational Health Knowledge and Nursing Professionalism.

This study aimed to develop a problem-based learning program for occupational health nursing using smart learning, and to report the program's effects on occupational health knowledge and nursing professionalism. A quasi-experimental study was performed using a non-equivalent control group pre-test-post-test design. An occupational health nursing problem-based learning program using smart learning was developed, and students produced videos containing problem-solving strategies in groups. The experimental and control groups consisted of 34 and 29 participants, respectively. To collect data, an online survey was conducted before and immediately after the intervention. The experimental and control group's mean scores for occupational health knowledge before the intervention were 5.74 and 7.41, respectively. Additionally, the mean scores for nursing professionalism were 3.45 and 3.66. After the intervention, both the knowledge on occupational health and nursing professionalism score improved to 8.26 and 3.64 in the experimental group. This study reported significant improvements after conducting the occupational health nursing education program. These results demonstrate the need to develop a nursing education program for problem-based learning utilizing smart learning. Moreover, filming videos in cooperation with students can improve the effectiveness of education by improving knowledge.

Music during cataract surgery: effect on anxiety.

To determine the effect of playing patient-selected music intraoperatively on patient self-reported anxiety and the amount of sedative administered during cataract surgery. Yale New Haven Hospital health system, New Haven, Connecticut. Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Patients were randomized to either a music group or a control group, which had no music played. Patients were blinded to the purpose of the study. On postoperative day 1, patients were consented to participate in the study and asked to complete a 6-question Likert-style survey (modified from the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) assessing anxiety at baseline and during surgery. Patients' intraoperative and postoperative vitals were recorded. The medication, dosage, and number of sedative injections given were also recorded. Paired t tests were used to assess for significant differences between the 2 groups. 107 patients (mean age 71.2 years) were enrolled in the study. There was no significant difference in baseline anxiety between the 2 groups. Patients randomized to the music group had significantly lower total self-reported anxiety (mean 5.98) than the control group (mean 7.13, P = .006). Moreover, patients exposed to music felt significantly less frightened, nervous, and confused during surgery ( P = .002, .007, and 0.017, respectively). There was no significant difference between the groups in number and dosage of sedatives given. Playing patient-selected music during cataract surgery is an effective way to decrease anxiety. Music directly affects patient experience and is an inexpensive, low-risk method of reducing patient anxiety during surgery.

Volumetric and Asymmetric Index Analysis of Subcortical Structures in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Retrospective Study Using volBrain Software.

Introduction Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and autoimmune disease that has a significant influence on the central nervous system, such as the brain and spinal cord, affecting millions of individuals globally. Understanding the connection between subcortical brain regions and MS is crucial for effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for treating this disabling disease. This study explores the relationship between volume and contours of asymmetry index of subcortical brain regions in individuals with MS using volBrain software (https://www.volbrain.net; developed by José V.Manjón (Valencia Polytechnic University, Valencia, Spain) and Pierrick Coupé (University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France)). Methods In our retrospective investigation, we admitted 100 Turkish individuals, comprising 50 patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) (24 (48%) males and 26 (52%) females) and 50 healthy controls (23 (46%) males and 27 (54%) females), registered between October 2017 and February 2022 for five years and underwent assessment in the radiology department at the Teaching and Research Hospital of Kocaeli University; 1,150 Turkish patients were excluded from our study based on our exclusion criteria. We used magnetic resonance imaging with a 3-Tesla (3T) scanner and volBrain software to assess volumes (cm3) and asymmetry indexes due to asymmetry for different levels of atrophy of total intracranial, total brain, gray matter, white matter, and subcortical regions, the most affected regions in MS patients for both patient and control cohorts. Results Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between patient and control groups (p < 0.001), with patient group mean age at 38.32 years and control group mean age at 32.88 years. Patient group exhibited lower values for total intracranial, total brain, gray matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid volume compared to control group (p < 0.05). The results indicated a statistically significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the values for total intracranial and total brain volume, whereas all other values remained unchanged. We compared volumes of subcortical structures on the right and left sides and found that the putamen, thalamus, and globus pallidus had statistically lower values in the patient group than in the control group (p < 0.001), apart from the lateral ventricle. Furthermore, our retrospective investigation demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the globus pallidus asymmetry index, indicating a preference for the patient group (p < 0.05). A lower asymmetry index value signifies a larger volume for the right side of the subcortical regions of the brain when compared to the left side. Conclusion Brain atrophy, although characterized by irreversible tissue damage, is targeted by therapeutic interventions to prevent progression. It is, therefore, imperative to develop a universally accepted measurement standard for subcortical structures that also considers the inherent variability present within each structure. Our findings serve as an important basis and indicator for the determination of subcortical atrophy and asymmetry in MS, the prognosis of the disease, and the etiology of clinical symptoms. Subsequent research may benefit by adopting the novel approach of considering brain atrophy as an outcome rather than a predictor, thereby facilitating the elucidation of the intricate biological mechanisms that give rise to volume loss.

(079) Perception of Signals of Sexual Interest in Patients with Schizophrenia

Abstract Introduction Patients with schizophrenia (SCH) face many difficulties in forming and maintaining sexual relationships and often have unmet needs around intimacy. Low satisfaction with sexual relationships has been linked to a decrease in overall quality of life. Single relationship status also correlates with a poorer prognosis. However, the exploration of sources of sexual and relationship deficits in patients is an area that is habitually neglected, and there is little research addressing this phenomenon. Objective Our study aims to identify whether difficulties in forming sexual relationships reported by patients with SCH could be connected to: a) a compromised ability to interpret, recognize and respond to signals of sexual interest b) decreased salience of sexual intimacy. Methods Sample: Twenty male and female patients with schizophrenia and a control group of the same size, matched for demographic parameters, will be recruited from the Study of first episodes of schizophrenia (ESO). ESO is a large prospective database dedicated to the longitudinal follow-up of first-episode patients with SCH which contains a wealth of information on bio-psycho-social markers. Procedure: The variables of interest will be tested by two experiments developed in our laboratory. The first experiment depicts male and female actors showing behavioral displays conveying signals of a) sexual interest, b) neutral but friendly attitude and c) rejection, towards the observer. The second experiment is a simple viewing task designed to assess the salience of erotic stimuli compared to neutral ones. In addition, eye movements and pupil dilation will be measured using the eye-tracking device Eyelink 1000plus. Statistical analysis: A repeated-measures t-test will be used to assess the change in a continuous outcome. Results Preliminary results show that the patients (N=10) spent more time on erotic images (mean time= 884.69 ms) than the control group (N=9) (mean time= 772.14 ms). This difference is not statistically significant (p = 0.21). Currently, more data are being collected. Conclusions The preliminary results demonstrate that there is no difference in the interest in explicit sexual stimuli between patients with SCH and healthy controls. Explicit erotic signals seem to be sexually salient to them, which indicates their interest in sexual intimacy. Our research will further determine whether individuals with SCH have impaired ability to perceive, interpret, and react to signals of sexual interest. The implications of our findings could lead to a formulation of sexual remediation strategies. The study was supported by the Czech Health Research Council, no. NU21J-04-00024 and the Charles University, Fac Med1, GAUK no. 56123. Disclosure No.

Evaluation of Glutathione Peroxidase and Glutathione Reductase Enzymes in Iraqi Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase Enzymes have a significant role in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. The objective of this article is to measure glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase enzymes in colorectal cancer patients and compare them with healthy subjects. Seventy newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients were enrolled in the present study and divided as follows; Group A: (n=32) with an age range (of 20-40 years); Group B: (n=38) with age range (41-60 years). For comparison, total of (30) healthy subjects were also inserted in the current study divided into patients in the same manner. Serum levels of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase enzymes were measured for patients and controlled by the ELISA technique. The current study shows that serum glutathioneperoxidase levels varied significantly in (the 20-40 years) group when comparing the patient and control group (395.5 ng/ml vs. 71.61 ng/ml, p-value less than 0.0001) and also in (41-60 years) group with mean (469.4 ng/ml vs. 106.3 ng/ml, p-value less than 0.0001) for patients and control groups respectively. Antioxidant enzymes including glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were increased in colorectal cancer patients compared to healthy subjects, significantly. According to the current study, the evolution of these enzymes can be used to understand the pathophysiology of disease and also to diagnosethe colorectal cancer.

Effectiveness of Conventional Periodontal Treatment With Tetracycline Fiber Versus Minocycline Gel Application Subgingivally in Periodontitis Patients.

Locally delivered antibiotics are adjunctive therapies for the selective removal or inhibition of pathogenic microbes in combination with scaling and root planing (SRP) for the management of periodontitis. The primary objective of this study was to evaluatethe effectiveness of tetracycline fibers against minocycline gel when used as local drug delivery in conjunction with SRP for treating periodontitis. This is a pilot randomized open single, blinded trial study comparing three treatment modalities: SRP with topical tetracycline fibers (SRP+T), SRP with topical minocycline HCL 2% gel (SRP+M), and SRP only as a control group. Probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BOP) percentages were recorded at baseline, one month, and at the end of three months. The data were subjected to analysis using IBM Corp. Released 2019. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the clinical outcomes between the three treatment groups, accounting for the repeated measurements at baseline, one month, and three months. A p-value less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval was deemed statistically significant. There were statistically significant changes within the groups in all the clinical parameters, including pocket depth, clinical attachment loss, and bleeding on probing score, at different time intervals, with the greatest mean pocket depth changes seen in the tetracycline group after one month (mean changes = 1.4 mm, P< 0.001) and over three months (mean changes = 1.79 mm, p< 0.001). For clinical attachment loss, after one month, the highest improvement in clinical level was seen in the minocycline group (mean changes = 0.7mm,p < 0.05), and the overall improvement was seen in the control group (mean changes = 1.1mm,p< 0.05). The minocycline group showed greater mean changes in bleeding on probing percentage, with the greatest changes after one month (mean changes = 19.34%, p < 0.001) and over three months (mean changes = 26.42%, p <0.001). However, there was no significant difference between the groups. Locally delivered tetracycline and minocycline gelare effectiveas adjuncts to SRP and may improve the healing outcome in the management of periodontitis.

Ambulatory Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: Initial Series in Iran

Background: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) procedures in the United States typically cost between 9000 to 16000 USD. In developing countries like Iran, healthcare performance is hindered by issues such as high bed occupancy rates. Therefore, performing PCNL in an outpatient setting could significantly reduce surgical costs and improve healthcare outcomes by reducing bed occupancy and associated complications. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the feasibility of same-day discharge for selected PCNL patients. Methods: Out of 142 patients, 32 were discharged within 12 hours post-operation (Study Group), while 32 randomly selected patients from the remaining 110 served as the control group. Same-day discharge criteria included stable vital signs, tolerance to oral intake, appropriate mobility, and normal laboratory results. Exclusion criteria encompassed the need for red blood cell transfusion, hemoglobin drops exceeding 2 mg/dL, and abnormal post-operative laboratory findings. Results: Patient characteristics and medical histories did not significantly differ between the study and control groups. Additionally, stone laterality (P-value = 0.606), location (P-value = 0.731), size (P-value = 0.334), and density (P-value = 0.065) showed no significant differences between the two groups. The post-surgical observation period in the study group (mean: 7.88 hours) was significantly shorter than that in the control group (mean: 62 hours) (P-value &lt; 0.001). The mean hemoglobin level change was 1.48 mg/dL (SD: ± 1.02) in the study group and 1.31 mg/dL (SD: ± 0.91) in the control group. Similarly, the change in creatinine levels was 0.13 ± 0.04 in the study group and 0.23 ± 0.03 in the control group. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that outpatient PCNL procedures are feasible without increasing perioperative complications. However, careful patient selection based on strict criteria is crucial for successful implementation.

Interactive Video Aided Interactional on Students’ Listening Skill

This research aimed to investigate the effect of interactive video on students' listening skills of the seventh grade at SMPN 1 Gedung Surian and to know where the better media used interactive or Powerpoint media in teaching listening skills. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test post-test control group. The sample of this research consisted of 60 seventh-grade students who were cluster random sampling selected and divided into two groups: experimental group and control group. The experimental group was taught using interactive video, while the control group was taught using conventional methods. Data were collected through a listening test before and after the treatment. The data were analyzed using independent samples t-test. The results showed that the experimental group's mean score (73.67) was significantly higher than the control group's mean score (47.23) with a p-value of 0.000. The findings indicated that the use of interactive video had a positive effect on students' listening skills, and as the result of the mean score of both classes the interactive video was more significant than PowerPoint media. Therefore, it is recommended that English teachers use interactive videos as a teaching method to improve students' listening skills.

Role of Topical Estrogen in Outcomes of Myringoplasty: Does it Really Affect the Results of Graft Success and Hearing Thresholds?

The tympanic membrane forms a barrier between the external auditory canal and the middle ear. In the inactive mucosal type of chronic otitis media, there is a perforation in the tympanic membrane which is surgically managed by Myringoplasty. Estrogen as a growth factor has been shown to have a mitogenic effect on keratinocytes thus hastening the rate of epithelialization following injury. This property of estrogen is being studied in this study for its role in the outcomes of myringoplasty. This study was carried out from January 2021 to December 2022 in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, of a tertiary teaching hospital in North India. Patients were assessed by history, examination, otoscopy, Audiometry, and oto-endoscopy. A total of 88 patients were taken out of which 44 patients underwent myringoplasty in which topical estrogen (estradiol valerate solution) was used, and the remaining 44 patients were taken as controls. Patients were then assessed post-operatively based on Audiometry results and graft uptake status. In the estrogen group successful Graft uptake was in seen 40 (90.9%) patients and failed in 4 (9.1%), while in the control group, it was successful in 37 (84.1%) patients and failed in 7 (15.9%), statistically there was no significant difference between two groups in terms of graft uptake (p value = 0.334). Post-operatively, in the estrogen group, the mean change in Air Conduction (AC) was 15.5dB, the change in the air-bone gap (ABG) was 11.5dB and for Bone Conduction (BC) it was 3.2dB. However, in the control group mean post-operative changes in Air Conduction, Air-Bone Gap, and Bone Conduction were 12dB, 10.7dB, and 0.8dBrespectively. Statistically, there was a significant difference in postoperative changes in AC (p value = 0.011) and BC (p value = 0.009) between the two groups. There was no significant difference in post-operative changes in Air-Bone Gap (p value = 0.571). Topical Estrogen (Estradiol valerate) solution is cost-effective, with enriched growth factors that accelerate tympanic membrane perforation closure following myringoplasty and resulted in significant improvement in hearing thresholds both for Air Conduction and Bone Conduction.

EFFECTIVENESS OF AN ONLINE WELLBEING PROGRAM FOR UST CRS STUDENTS: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY

Introduction: The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the 6-week online wellbeing program in improving the physical and mental wellbeing of University of Santo Tomas College of Rehabilitation Sciences (UST-CRS) students. Methods: This two-arm randomized trial involved 24 UST-CRS students randomly allocated into intervention and waitlist control groups. Participants were selected through purposive sampling and screened with the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire and Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms. The program covered psychological and physical activities, delivered through the Wix website for six weeks. Pre- and post-assessments included the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index (WHO-5). Jamovie was used for descriptive and inferential statistics. Alpha level was set at 0.05. Results: Within-group analysis revealed METS total scores increased for both intervention (mean difference: 597.00) and control groups (mean difference: 275.75). Similarly, an increase in WHO-5 percentage scores (mean difference of 6.00) and control groups (difference of 6.00) was observed. Between-group analysis showed no statistically significant difference in post-test METS total scores between the intervention and control groups (p-value 0.648) and WHO-5 percentage scores (p-value 0.696). Discussion: Initial results demonstrated no significant improvements in UST CRS students' physical and mental wellbeing in the 6-week program. The small sample size may have hindered the inability to detect significant changes in the measured outcomes. However, considering the mean difference, the study suggests regular physical activity, healthy habits, and routine building may still benefit students. Research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention durations could provide more conclusive evidence of the program's impact on UST-CRS students’ well-being.

Effect of Vitamin D3 on Caspase-3 Expression of Retinal Ganglion Cell Wistar Rats with N-Methyl-D-Aspartate-induced Model of Glaucoma

Introduction &amp; ObjectivesIntroduction: Vitamin D is a neuroprotective neurosteroid hormone with antioxidant, antiinflammatoryand anti-ischemic properties that can reduce the entry of intracellular calcium,thereby reducing cytochrome-c, modulating inflammation, increasing Nitric Oxide production bysuppressing oxidative stress and activating caspase-3 activation. Excitotoxicity due to N-Methyl-DAspartatecauses caspase-3 activation due to increased calcium in cells and describes thepathogenesis of vascular factor glaucoma due to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage in the absenceof an increase in intraocular pressure. RGC damage can be assessed by the expression of caspase-3which is a proapoptotic agent that acts as the main effector caspase in the mechanism of apoptosis.Objective: Proving the effect of vitamin D3 on caspase-3 expression of retinal ganglion cells wistarrats in NMDA-induced glaucoma models.&#x0D; MethodsAn experimental study, using post-test only randomized controlled group design, was done on 14male NMDA-induced glaucoma wistar rats, divided into 2 groups. The treatment group was givenoral vitamin D3 500 IU/kgBW every 24 hours for 10 weeks, while the control group was givenaquadest. Immunohistochemistry was used to measured caspase-3 expression. Mann-Whitneyanalized non-parametric difference test (Significant p&lt;0.05).&#x0D; ResultsCaspase-3 expression of retinal ganglion cell was significantly lower (p=0.004) in treatment group(mean=5,29 ± 0,76) compared to control group (mean=6,71 ± 0,49).&#x0D; ConclusionOral vitamin D3 has an effect on caspase-3 expression of retinal ganglion cells wistar rats in NMDAinducedglaucoma models. Further research is needed to investigate the protective role of vitaminD3 on glaucoma patients.

The association of serum irisin with anthropometric, metabolic, and bone parameters in obese children and adolescents.

Irisin is an adipomyokine secreted by muscle and adipose cells, and it plays a role in glucose, fat, and bone metabolism. This study aimed to determine the correlation of serum irisin levels with anthropometric, metabolic, and bone parameters in obese children and adolescents. This single-center study included 103 Korean children and adolescents: 54 (52.4%) obese participants with a body mass index (BMI) ≥95th percentile and 49 (47.6%) healthy controls with BMI within the 15th to 85th percentile. Various parameters were measured, including fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglyceride and glucose (TyG) index, lipid profile, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin, and 25(OH)-Vitamin D levels. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in 33 healthy subjects. Serum irisin was significantly higher in the obese group than in the control group (mean 18.1 ± 3.5 vs. 16.2 ± 2.0 ng/mL; p = 0.001). Serum irisin level was positively correlated with chronological age (r = 0.28; p = 0.004), height SDS (r = 0.24; p = 0.02), BMI SDS (r = 0.37; p < 0. 001), fasting glucose (r = 0.27; p = 0.007), fasting insulin (r = 0.23; p = 0.03), HOMA-IR (r = 0.21; p = 0.04), osteocalcin (r = 0.27; p = 0.006) and negatively correlated with HDL cholesterol (r = -0.29; p = 0.005). All these correlations were evident in obese subjects but not in healthy subjects. ALP and 25(OH)-Vitamin D were unrelated to irisin levels. Among 33 healthy subjects, total body-less head (TBLH) BMD Z-score was positively correlated with serum irisin (r = 0.39; p = 0.03), osteocalcin (r = 0.40; p = 0.02), fasting insulin (r = 0.39; p = 0.04), and HOMA-IR (r = 0.38; p = 0.047). This study demonstrated an association between irisin levels and glucose, lipid, and bone parameters in children and adolescents. Our findings suggest that irisin has a potential role in metabolic disorders and bone health in obese children and adolescents.

Comparative evaluation of efficacy of 2% lidocaine containing adrenaline with and without hyaluronidase in inferior alveolar nerve blocks for patients requiring bilateral mandibular extractions

AbstractPurposeTo evaluate and compare the efficacy of 2% lidocaine containing adrenaline with and without hyaluronidase in inferior alveolar nerve blocks for patients requiring bilateral mandibular extractions.Patients and MethodsThis was the split‐mouth study conducted on 26 patients requiring bilateral mandibular teeth extraction. All the patients were assigned randomly to one of the two groups: (i) 2% lignocaine HCl + 1:2,00,000 adrenaline + hyaluronidase (75 IU) solution will be administered on one side which is the experimental side and (ii) 2% lignocaine HCl + 1:2,00,000 adrenaline solution on the other side is control side. In the first session, the patients randomly received the inferior alveolar nerve block with or without hyaluronidase in one side of the oral cavity. One week later, the same patient received the other technique which was not received in the first session. We also evaluated the onset, duration and need of any supplementary anaesthesia in both the groups.ResultsComparison of VAS score in the control group (2.73 ± 0.724) and experimental group (3 ± 0.693) showed statistically insignificant results (p = 0.177). Whereas the onset of local anaesthesia showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p &lt; 0.001) mean of control group (2.73 ± 0.47) and experimental group (1.15 ± 0.23). Comparison of duration of anaesthesia showed a statistically significant difference (p &lt; 0.001) with the mean duration of the experimental group being higher (106 ± 7.94) than the control group (86.27 ± 3.90). Comparison for the need for supplementary anaesthesia showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups.ConclusionWe conclude that if hyaluronidase is used, better blocks with smaller volumes are produced. LAs with hyaluronidase have been shown to improve the quality and effectiveness of anaesthetic blocks and shorten the time it takes for anaesthesia to begin, accelerate the onset of akinesia and lessen the need for additional anaesthesia. It also increases the duration of anaesthesia.