Difficulty Relaxing Research Articles

The Influence of Occlusion Type on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Complete Dentures-Lingualized vs. Bilaterally Balanced Occlusion.

This randomized, single-blind controlled study aimed to investigate the QoL and satisfaction of patients wearing complete dentures with lingualized (LO) and bilaterally balanced occlusion (BBO). Participants were stratified based on their prior experience with complete dentures. The study involved 131 complete denture wearers who were categorized into four groups: G1-first-time prosthesis wearers treated with LO (n = 33); G2-first-time prosthesis wearers treated with BBO (n = 31); G3-participants with prior prosthesis experience treated with LO (n = 34); G4-participants with prior prosthesis experience treated with BBO (n = 33). After wearing the prosthesis for one month, all participants completed the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire. A statistical analysis was conducted using the χ2 test, Kruskal-Wallis analysis and Mann-Whitney test, with significance determined at p < 0.05. After dividing the respondents into two groups, a statistically significant difference was observed in the distribution of scores for three questions related to oral pain severity, anxiety, and difficulty relaxing. However, the distribution of scores for all other questions did not show a statistically significant difference between the groups studied (p < 0.05). The total OHIP-14 score was also not statistically different (z = 0.469; p = 0.639). However, when respondents were divided into four groups, the median score for first-time denture wearers was 3.9 points higher in respondents who received dentures with BBO compared to those with LO (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the median score for first-time denture wearers who received BBO was higher than for those in the second group who received BBO (p = 0.013). Patients wearing complete dentures for the first time demonstrated significantly higher satisfaction with the LO scheme compared to the BBO scheme. In contrast, satisfaction levels between occlusal schemes did not significantly differ among patients with prior denture-wearing experience. Novice denture wearers reported heightened sensations of oral discomfort, anxiety, and difficulty relaxing regardless of the occlusal scheme compared to experienced wearers, likely due to the unrealistic expectations that first-time wearers often have about complete dentures.

Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Performance of Undergraduate Healthcare Students During Their Internship in Saudi Arabia.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) isaninfectious disease that has rapidly spread on a global scale. The entire world has fought tirelessly to combat this disease, which has had a significant impact on humanity. This study examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the performance of undergraduate healthcare students during internship, focusing on the leadership, social, and mental aspects. A cross-sectional national survey was conducted among Saudi Arabia's undergraduate health care students. From August to December of 2021, non-probability convenient sampling was employed in the study. Online-questionnaire was used to administer the three survey dimensions-mental health, social life, and leadership-as well as the demographic profiles. Correlation coefficients were utilized to establish a meaningful connection between the independent variables and the study's domains.Moreover, the Kruskal-Wallis tests wereemployedtoefficientlycompare the mediansamong theindependent groups. Two hundred and forty-one undergraduate healthcare students from a variety of backgrounds participated in this study. Mental health issues such as difficulty relaxing and increased irritability were prominent. From a sociological perspective, the majority of participants expressed a strong desire for more social interaction. Lastly, most participants in the leadership domain revealed satisfaction with their professional relationships. However, 50.7% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their incentives. The study concludes that addressing problems in the mental, social, and leadership domains is crucial to enhancing the resilience and overall well-being of undergraduate healthcare students during their internships. Anxiety and stress emerged as the most prevalent factors affecting these students. However, the presence of a positive relationship with their supervisors, as well as the support provided by healthcare organizations, played a vital role in helping them overcome these challenges.

Subjective brain fog: a four-dimensional characterization in 25,796 participants.

Brain fog is associated with significant morbidity and reduced productivity and gained increasing attention after COVID-19. However, this subjective state has not been systematically characterised. To characterise self-reported brain fog. We systematically studied the cross-sectional associations between 29 a priori variables with the presence of "brain fog." The variables were grouped into four categories: demographics, symptoms and functional impairments, comorbidities and potential risk factors (including lifestyle factors), and cognitive score. Univariate methods determined the correlates of brain fog, with long-COVID and non-long-COVID subgroups. XGBoost machine learning model retrospectively characterised subjective brain fog. Bonferroni-corrected statistical significance was set at 5%. Digital application for remote data collection. 25,796 individuals over the age of 18 who downloaded and completed the application. 7,280 of 25,796 individuals (28.2%) reported experiencing brain fog, who were generally older (mean brain fog 35.7 ± 11.9 years vs. 32.8 ± 11.6 years, p < 0.0001) and more likely to be female (OR = 1.2, p < 0.001). Associated symptoms and functional impairments included difficulty focusing or concentrating (OR = 3.3), feeling irritable (OR = 1.6), difficulty relaxing (OR = 1.2, all p < 0.0001), difficulty following conversations (OR = 2.2), remembering appointments (OR = 1.9), completing paperwork and performing mental arithmetic (ORs = 1.8, all p < 0.0001). Comorbidities included long-COVID-19 (OR = 3.8, p < 0.0001), concussions (OR = 2.4, p < 0.0001), and higher migraine disability assessment scores (MIDAS) (+34.1%, all p < 0.0001). Cognitive scores were marginally lower with brain fog (-0.1 std., p < 0.001). XGBoost achieved a training accuracy of 85% with cross-validated accuracy of 74%, and the features most predictive of brain fog in the model were difficulty focusing and following conversations, long-COVID, and severity of migraines. This is the largest study characterising subjective brain fog as an impairment of concentration associated with functional impairments in activities of daily living. Brain fog was particularly associated with a history of long-COVID-19, migraines, concussion, and with 0.1 standard deviations lower cognitive scores, especially on modified Stroop testing, suggesting impairments in the ability to inhibit cognitive interference. Further prospective studies in unselected brain fog sufferers should explore the full spectrum of brain fog symptoms to differentiate it from its associated conditions.

Sexual function in women with endometriosis and pelvic floor myofascial pain syndrome.

To evaluate and compare the sexual function and pelvic floor muscles (PFM) function of women with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain (CPP) with and without Myofascial Pelvic Pain Syndrome (MPPS). Cross-sectional study conducted between January 2018 and December 2020. Women with deep endometriosis underwent assessments for trigger points (TP) and PFM function using the PERFECT scale. Electromyographic activity (EMG) and sexual function through Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were assessed. Statistical analyses included chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests. There were 46 women. 47% had increased muscle tone and 67% related TP in levator ani muscle (LAM). Weakness in PFM, with P≤2 was noted in 82% and P≥3 in only 17%. Incomplete relaxation of PFM presented in 30%. EMG results were resting 6.0, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) 61.9 and Endurance 14.2; FSFI mean total score 24.7. We observed an association between increased muscle tone (P<.001), difficulty in relaxation (P=.019), and lower Endurance on EMG (P=.04) in women with TP in LAM. Participants with TP presented lower total FSFI score (P=.02). TP in the right OIM presented increased muscle tone (P=.01). TP in the left OIM presented lower values to function of PFM by PERFECT (P=.005), and in MVIC (P=.03) on EMG. Trigger points (TP) in pelvic floor muscles (PFM) and obturator internus muscle (OIM) correlates with poorer PFM and sexual function, particularly in left OIM TP cases. Endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain raise muscle tone, weaken muscles, hinder relaxation, elevate resting electrical activity, lower maximum voluntary isometric contraction, and reduce PFM endurance.

The comorbid network characteristics of anxiety and depressive symptoms among Chinese college freshmen.

This study aimed to investigate the interplay between anxiety and depressive symptoms in Chinese college freshmen using the causal system perspective (CSP), which differs from the traditional common cause perspective (CCP) by providing an alternative explanation by attributing comorbidity to direct interactions among symptoms. A convenience sample of 2,082 Chinese college freshmen (39.51% male, Mage = 18.61) from a normal university completed the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Network analysis was conducted and evaluated as to centrality, stability, node predictability, and bridging features. Moreover, the moderated network model (MNM) was utilized to detect the moderation effects of gender in the comorbidity network. The network of anxiety and depressive symptoms exhibited stability, characterized by the core symptoms of "restlessness", "lack of energy", and "excessive worry about control", as well as the bridging symptoms of "fearfulness", "sad mood", and "irritability". Notably, the nodes representing "uncontrollable worry" and "difficulty in relaxation" demonstrated the highest predictive power. Gender did not exert any moderating effects on the anxiety and depressive symptom network. These results reinforce that certain anxiety or depressive symptoms are more central than others, and thus play a more vital role in the comorbid network. These findings highlight underlying potential targeting symptoms to consider in future interventions.

Concentric needle jitter analysis of the genioglossus muscle in patients with motor neuron disease

ABSTRACT Objectives Difficulty relaxing the genioglossus muscle makes the evaluation of spontaneous activity problematic in patients with motor neuron disease (MND). We performed jitter analysis using conventional disposable concentric needle electrodes (CNEs) of the voluntarily activated genioglossus muscle in patients with and without MND to detect the denervation-reinnervation process. Methods CNE jitter analysis was performed at the genioglossus muscle in 21 MND(+) patients and 22 MND(–) subjects. The jitter analysis was considered abnormal if the jitter values exceeded these limits for the mean consecutive difference (MCD) or the individual MCD in more than 10% of readings. Results Seventeen MND(+) patients (81%) had at least three abnormal individual jitter values whereas denervation findings were obtained in eleven of them during the needle electromyographic examination at genioglossus muscle. None of the MND(–) subjects showed CNE jitter abnormality. Conclusion CNE jitter analysis of genioglossus muscle may provide an useful information that may be suggestive of a diagnosis of MND/ALS.

The impact of a graphic novel on anxiety and stress in patients undergoing endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle biopsy for pancreatic lesions: a pilot study protocol

The utilization of graphic novels in the realm of clinical medicine is an infrequent occurrence. However, there is a burgeoning interest in their application across a spectrum of pathological conditions with the ultimate aim of enhancing patient care. This study is a prospective pilot designed to assess the influence of graphic novels on the stress levels and behavioral responses of patients diagnosed with pancreatic lesions and who are to undergo endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB). Patients exhibiting radiological and clinical pancreatic lesions needing biopsy will be evaluated consecutively. The inclusion criteria encompass the presence of a solid pancreatic mass or a partially solid mass in the event of a cystic component. The exclusion criteria include patients with cognitive impairments, those currently on benzodiazepines or other psychotropic medications, and those with a prior diagnosis of cancer. The authors have developed a comic panel comprising a sequence of six vibrant vignettes, which delineate the standard procedure of EUS-FNB to the patient. Following hospital admission, patients who meet the enrolment criteria and consent to participate in the study will be randomly assigned to either the test or the control group. A graphic novel will be distributed to all patients in the test group, who will have the opportunity to peruse it while awaiting the procedure. Subsequent to the EUS-FNB, all enrolled patients will complete the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and a modified version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (termed mDASS-21 or mASS-14). The BAI, a 21-item self-report inventory, is employed to gauge the severity of anxiety in adults. The other questionnaire is a modified rendition of the DASS-21, which originally comprised 21 items segregated into three subscales (anxiety, stress, and depression) with seven items each. The anxiety subscale measures physiological arousal, situational anxiety, and the subjective experience of the effects of anxiety, while the stress subscale assesses chronic non-specific arousal, difficulty relaxing, nervous tension, irritability, agitation, and impatience.

Longitudinal Relationships Between Depressive Symptoms and Generalized Anxiety Symptoms in Adolescents: A Cross-Lagged Network Analysis.

The comorbidity of depression and generalized anxiety have raised questions about the existing classification system. Based on the perspective of network analysis, the developmental relationship between psychological symptoms can be explored more clearly. The current study aimed to explore the longitudinal network association of depressive symptoms and generalized anxiety symptoms in non-clinical adolescents. The sample contained 1,947 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 13.93, SD = 1.71; 48.5% girls). Their depression (PHQ-9) and generalized anxiety (GAD-7) symptoms were assessed at baseline (T1) and 6-month follow-up (T2). Data was analyzed using a cross-lagged network analysis. Depressive symptoms and generalized anxiety symptoms were closely related and did not appear to be distinct categories in adolescence. More generalized anxiety symptoms predicted depressive symptoms rather than vice versa. After controlling for gender, and age, "Difficulty relaxing" presented the highest out-expected influence (out-EI) in the network, while "trouble concentrating", and "suicidal ideation" showed the lowest in expected influence (in-EI). Findings suggested that interventions for generalized anxiety symptoms may help reduce depressive symptoms among Chinese adolescents. Specifically, alleviating "difficulty relaxing" may improve overall mental health.

Are We Measuring ADHD or Anxiety? Examining the Factor Structure and Discriminant Validity of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale in an Adult Anxiety Disorder Population.

Adults with clinical anxiety have significant symptom overlap and above average rates of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Despite this, ADHD remains a vastly under-detected disorder among this population, indicating the need for a screener with well-understood symptom dimensions and good discriminant validity. The current study compared competing models of ADHD as well as discriminant properties of self-reported ADHD symptoms as measured by the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) in 618 adults with clinical anxiety. A three-factor correlated model of Inattention, Impulsivity, and Hyperactivity, with the movement of one item, talks excessively, to a factor of Impulsivity from Hyperactivity fit better than the one-factor, two-factor, and traditional three-factor models of ADHD. Discriminant properties of the screener were fair to good against measures of clinical anxiety and distress; however, some items within the Hyperactivity factor (e.g., difficulty relaxing; feeling driven by a motor) loaded more strongly onto factors of clinical anxiety than ADHD when measures were pooled together. These results suggest that clinicians making differential diagnoses between adult ADHD and anxiety or related disorders should look for evidence of ADHD beyond the overlapping symptoms, particularly for those within the Hyperactivity factor.

Analysis of Resilience to Stress in Adolescents Student during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Stress is a condition of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation, often referred to as pressure. Meanwhile, resilience comprises active and distinct biological processes that protect organisms from the effects of stress. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health, specifically among adolescents navigating a transitional period. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between stress and resilience among adolescents student during the COVID-19 pandemic. An analytic cross-sectional design was used and the study was conducted between February to July 2021. The subjects comprised 238 people from 22 MAN in the Jabodetabek area, selected through Cluster Random Sampling. Primary data were obtained by filling out the 42-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-42) and Miller Smith Rating Scale for Stress Tolerance (MSRS-ST) online questionnaires through the Google form application. Furthermore, data were analyzed using Chi-square and Multiple logistics regression tests. The results showed that the majority of respondents totaling 185 (77.7%) had high stress levels with 202 (84.9%) having low resilience. There was a significant relationship between stress levels and resilience as demonstrated by p-value = 0.0002. The variable “difficulty in relaxing” had a 0.13 times potential impact as a factor associated with stress levels. On the other hand, the variable “not drinking alcohol” was found to have a 16.77 times higher potential to be a factor associated with resilience.

Effects of Biofeedback on Muscle Effort Reduction when Holding Positions with a Powered Upper Limb Exoskeleton

Exoskeletons have the potential to support daily activities by assisting the movement performance. Previous studies have shown that powered elbow exoskeletons can reduce muscle effort during continuous cyclic movement. However, natural movements have embedded stationary hold periods as well as transitions between postures. The human performance when using exoskeletons for more natural movements should be evaluated. In this study, we implemented visual and haptic electromyography (EMG) biofeedback to help people use an upper limb exoskeleton to perform a target position matching task. Participants (n=36) did not significantly reduce their muscle effort during hold periods when provided with biofeedback. Participants had difficulty relaxing their muscles at more flexed postures during hold periods, suggesting that they continued to provide effort instead of taking advantage of the device. To fully benefit from robotic exoskeletons, additional training and more advanced controllers might be needed.

Network analysis of anxiety and depressive symptoms one year after traumatic brain injury

We used network analysis to explore interrelationships between anxiety and depressive symptoms after traumatic brain injury (TBI). At one year post-injury, 882 adult civilians who received inpatient rehabilitation for moderate-severe TBI self-reported anxiety and depressive symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). The severity of TBI was characterized acutely by the duration of post-traumatic amnesia (PTA), and TBI-related functional disability was rated by an examiner at one year post-injury using a structured interview (Glasgow Outcome Scale – Extended). We estimated two cross-sectional, partial correlation networks. In the first network, anxiety and depressive symptoms were densely interconnected yet formed three distinct, data-driven communities: Hyperarousal, Depression, and General Distress. Worrying thoughts and having difficulty relaxing were amongst the most central symptoms, showing strong connections with other symptoms within and between communities. In the second network, TBI severity was directly negatively associated with hyperarousal symptoms but indirectly positively associated with depressive symptoms via greater functional disability. The results highlight the potential utility of simultaneous, transdiagnostic assessment and treatment of anxiety and depressive symptoms after moderate-severe TBI. Worrying thoughts, having difficulty relaxing, and the experience of disability may be important targets for treatment, although future studies examining symptom dynamics within individuals and over time are required.

Brody myopathy associated with novel compound heterozygous ATP2A1 mutations (P6-8.015)

<h3>Objective:</h3> To describe a case of presumed Brody myopathy associated with novel compound heterozygous ATP2A1 mutations. <h3>Background:</h3> Brody myopathy is a rare autosomal recessive skeletal muscle disease characterized by exertional muscle cramps, weakness, and/or rhabdomyolysis associated with clinical myotonia. <h3>Design/Methods:</h3> N/A <h3>Results:</h3> A 19-year-old man with normal development and motor milestones presented to neuromuscular clinic after two episodes of exercise-induced muscle weakness and rhabdomyolysis in the past 6-months. Peak creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) was &gt;63,000 units/L and he quickly returned to baseline after each episode with intravenous fluids and supportive care. Remaining initial testing including serum total carnitine and acylcarnitine levels, and urine organic acid levels, were normal. He provided additional history of progressive difficulty relaxing leg and handgrip muscles after exertion since childhood, and multiple episodes of asymptomatic dark-colored urine provoked by strenuous exercise over the past two years. Physical examination showed bilateral grip and percussion myotonia with otherwise normal muscle bulk, strength, and remaining neurologic examination. Electromyography was normal. Genetic testing including myotonic dystrophy types 1 and 2, Pompe disease, and non-dystrophic myotonic disorders was notable for compound heterozygous ATP2A1 gene c.2032C&gt;T (p.Arg678Cys) and c.2176G&gt;A (p.Val726Met) variants of uncertain significance. Separate pathogenic mutations in this gene cause Brody myopathy, a non-dystrophic myotonic disorder characterized by exertional rhabdomyolysis. The patient is presumed to have Brody myopathy due to novel compound heterozygous ATP2A1 mutations. <h3>Conclusions:</h3> Brody myopathy should be considered in individuals presenting with muscle cramps, clinical myotonia, and exertional rhabdomyolysis. Clinical features and electromyographic findings are milder than myotonic dystrophies, Pompe disease, and typical non-dystrophic myotonic disorders. Genetic testing including ATP2A1 gene sequencing aids diagnosis. Management is supportive, although individuals should be aware of a 5% association with malignant hyperthermia-like episodes after exposure to volatile anesthetics. <b>Disclosure:</b> Dr. Walia has nothing to disclose. Dr. Su has nothing to disclose.

Psychological impact of COVID-19: A cross-lagged network analysis from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging COVID-19 database.

The COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent health restrictions had an unprecedented impact on mental health, contributing to the emergence and reinforcement of various psychopathological symptoms. This complex interaction needs to be examined especially in a vulnerable population such as older adults. In the present study we analyzed network structures of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and loneliness from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging COVID-19 Substudy over two waves (Months of June-July and November-December 2020). For this purpose, we use measures of centrality (expected and bridge-expected influence) in addition to the Clique Percolation method to identify overlapping symptoms between communities. We also use directed networks to identify direct effects between variables at the longitudinal level. UK adults aged >50 participated, Wave 1: 5,797 (54% female) and Wave 2: 6,512 (56% female). Cross-sectional findings indicated that difficulty relaxing, anxious mood, and excessive worry symptoms were the strongest and similar measures of centrality (Expected Influence) in both waves, while depressive mood was the one that allowed interconnection between all networks (bridge expected influence). On the other hand, sadness and difficulty sleeping were symptoms that reflected the highest comorbidity among all variables during the first and second waves, respectively. Finally, at the longitudinal level, we found a clear predictive effect in the direction of the nervousness symptom, which was reinforced by depressive symptoms (difficulties in enjoying life) and loneliness (feeling of being excluded or cut off from others). Our findings suggest that depressive, anxious, and loneliness symptoms were dynamically reinforced as a function of pandemic context in older adults in the UK.

High tilted antiferroelectric liquid crystals: Polymer-based approach for phase stabilisation and device development

On doping orthoconic antiferroelectric liquid crystal (OAFLC) mixtures with a small concentration of reactive mesogens, new liquid crystalline material was engineered with improved opto-electronic performance. In-situ photo polymerisation of the mixtures resulted in the creation of a polymer network that helped removal of the metastability bought on by F-states (Synclinic Ferroelectric State) in tristate switching devices. These metastable states causes the switching timings of the device to be asymmetrical, with the fall time being significantly longer than the rise time due to the difficulty in relaxing from the Ferroelectric-synclinic to the Antiferroelectric-anticlinic state. The opto-electronic parameters of the device cells were measured before and after the mixtures were stabilised by Ultraviolet light (UV) polymerisation. Polymer stabilisation of the orthoconic state yielded symmetric optical rise and fall times, accompanied by a reduction in the electrical response times. Spontaneous polarisation in the OAFLC mixtures were found to decrease after UV polymerisation; however, this is an important trade-off vis-à-vis symmetric optical response times, considering the overall performance of the material from an application standpoint.

Real-time wavefront aberrometry in subjects with accommodative excess

The purpose of this study was to use real-time wavefront aberrometry to detect accommodative excess (AE) and to analyse the optical quality of the eye in subjects with this dysfunction. AE was detected from the accommodative response obtained by real-time wavefront aberrometry. These subjects had a significant accommodative lead to all stimuli and had difficulty relaxing accommodation. The root mean square (RMS) of high order aberrations (HOA) was higher in subjects with AE for lower stimulus and for disaccommodation than in the control group. However, the subjects with AE showed a decrease in the RMS of HOA with an increase in accommodative response. Primary spherical aberration tended to become more negative with accommodation in both subjects and there was no difference between the groups. Real-time wavefront aberrometry can be used as an objective method to detect accommodative excess.

Stress among Students and Difficulty with Time Management: A Study at the University of Galați in Romania

Stress is a defining trait of our modern societies. The correlations between economic and social developments and the state of ill-being of populations have long been demonstrated. Today, negative environmental factors such as climate change, war and health crises have consequences on populations. Regardless of gender or age, more and more people are suffering from stress, of which there are many effects. According to studies, stress is an emotional response resulting from human–environmental interaction. They define stress as a state of discomfort and tension caused by external factors. This author believes that stress has a negative impact, which leads to frustration and increased difficulty in addressing issues. Authors describes stress as a physical and psychological state experienced by someone facing a real or potential. For students, stress can be caused by a number of factors. Some of these may include how the university functions, exam periods, relationships with teachers, the pressure that parents put on academic achievement, competition with other students, financial problems, uncertainty about the future, and lack of self-confidence. Symptoms of stress are now well identified. Students suffering from stress report feeling unhappy, having stomach pains, difficulty relaxing and sleeping, mental health problems, and even depression. When it comes to stress, Romanian students are no exception, especially because of the particularly volatile situation faced by the nation. The country has high immigration of skilled and qualified labour, inflation, and depreciation of the national currency. Students also claim to be stressed by the challenges of student life and the demands of the working world. They have a constant fear of failure and doubt themselves, their academic skills, and success in their careers after graduating. Our sociological study aims to deepen our knowledge in this field in Romania. In an already anxious context, it successively examines stress factors, symptoms experienced by students, conditions for organising studies, and ways to improve students’ quality of life. To conduct our study, we sampled students at the Dunărea de Jos University of Galați. We analysed 151 questionnaires sent to a sample of students listed in various first-year university courses. The results of this survey ultimately allow us to better identify the time-related, financial, and social factors of stress and the resulting symptoms. It is very clear that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a detrimental effect on this already fragile young population. Our study is also an opportunity to discuss ways to better manage student stress.

Assessing The Quality of Life Among Older Adults Having Oral Health Problems

Oral health refers to the health of the oral cavity of an individual. Oral health is the most important part of general healthcare. The oral cavity or mouth make a major part of human body and considered to be the beginning of gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. The concept of Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHQoL) is focused on the idea that oral health issues can harm a person's self-esteem and self-image, create other health problems, hinder social contact, and cause pain, stress, and sadness. Objective: To assess the Quality of Life (QoL) among older adults having oral health problems. Methods: A Cross-sectional study was carried out from ‘Heaven Old-Age home’, Ferozepur Road, Lahore. Middle age to older adults aged between 45 to 80 years suffering from oral health problems were selected through a non-probability convenient sampling technique, and the sample size of 100 was enrolled. Participants were assessed through a self-constructed questionnaire. The data was analyzed by SPSS version 21.0. Results: Out of 100 participants, 45 were males while 55 were females while 96 participants were married. Socioeconomically, 72 participants belonged to the middle class in which 67 participants were educated, while 33 were uneducated. Result showed that 39 felt almost inability of chewing, 51 felt uncomfortable eating, 61 were feeling difficulty in biting hard food, and 54 were feeling difficulty while taking a big bite. Moreover, 77 were feeling difficult or restricted smiling, 74 were feeling difficulty in relaxing while 71 were feeling tense, and 83 were feeling irritable. 75 were embarrassed because of oral issues. However, 65 had pain in the mouth while 35 did not. 68 individuals had history of toothache in the previous 12 months, while 32 had not. Conclusion: It was concluded that there is an association between quality of life and oral health. Older adults face problems in chewing and swallowing food, feel pain while chewing or biting the food, and face nutritional deficiencies affecting their quality of life.

The Influence of Pharyngeal Strength on the Outcome of Botulinum Toxin Treatment for Difficulty in Relaxation of the Upper Esophageal Sphincter

The Influence of Pharyngeal Strength on the Outcome of Botulinum Toxin Treatment for Difficulty in Relaxation of the Upper Esophageal Sphincter

University Student Sleep Quality: Some Health Insights regarding Light Exposure

Young adult sleep quality is reported to be compromised in the literature with shortened sleep intervals, daytime napping, excessive daytime sleepiness and excessive wakeups. The description of young adult sleep quality commonly includes the rationale that the independent schedule of the young adults coupled with their preferred social schedule, work and academic schedules leaves the planning for sleep to last place. Despite mentation and memory reductions with sleep deprivation secondary to poor sleep quality documented in young adults, the poor sleep quality prevails. This study is focused on the elements of arousal during a young adult’s day that may predispose them to elevated activation and difficulty relaxing sufficiently to fall asleep. It was hypothesized that light exposure was elevated in young adults with poor sleep quality. Light exposure in terms of overhead bright lights in classrooms and laboratories of the academic environment, bright light in terms of video monitors/TVs/tablets/phone exposure is sufficiently stimulating to cause cognitive activation was light exposure.