Multiple-choice Questionnaire Research Articles

Improving Medical Education in Oncology: Enhancing Students' Understanding of Cancer Treatments Through Multidisciplinary Clinical Rotations.

Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, requiring physicians to understand multidisciplinary treatments. This study assessed the impact of a clinical rotation in a cancer center on medical students' knowledge of cancer treatments from a multidisciplinary perspective. A traditional single-department rotation was compared to a multidisciplinary rotation to determine whether broader exposure enhances knowledge and prepares students for multidisciplinary care. This prospective, comparative study was conducted between April and September 2024 at Institut Godinot, a regional cancer center. Medical students were divided into two groups: Group A (traditional model), where students remained in a single department, and Group B (multidisciplinary model), where students rotated through pharmacy, medical oncology, nuclear medicine, radiology, radiotherapy, and surgery. Knowledge acquisition was assessed using a 20-item multiple-choice questionnaire before and after the rotation, with scores out of 20 representing oncology knowledge. Among the 40 students rotating during the inclusion period, 28 (70%) completed both pre- and post-rotation assessments and were included in the analysis. A total of 13 students were in Group A and 15 in Group B. Students in Group B showed greater improvement in post-rotation scores (14.4 ± 1.7 vs. 11.4 ± 4.2, p = 0.06). Group B also had a larger increase in their score (1.9 ± 1.9 points vs. - 0.9 ± 5.3 points, p = 0.07). Multidisciplinary rotations improved students' understanding of oncology, suggesting this model should be expanded and further evaluated for its long-term impact on clinical competency.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Knowledge Deficits Among Male Urology Patients.

To measure patient knowledge about Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and identify factors associated with knowledge deficiencies among those newly presenting to our urology clinic. Adult men presenting as new patients to our institution's urology clinic regardless of chief complaint were invited to complete a 26-item multiple choice questionnaire to assess basic knowledge about BPH, related symptomatology, and treatment options prior to their initial consultation. Responses were correlated to demographic variables using ANOVA and multivariable linear modeling. 206 patients completed the questionnaire and had a mean age of 60.8 years. The majority were White (85.6%) and 28.9% were Medicare/Medicaid insured. The mean correct response rate was 62% (standard deviation of 22.9%) with the worst performing domain being BPH complications. Having a graduate or professional degree (p<0.001) and self-referral were associated with significantly higher scores (p=0.027). There remain significant knowledge gaps about BPH among men seeking urologic care. Education tools for both patients and primary care physicians may help improve health literacy as well as health outcomes for patients with BPH.

I-RANT: Training session on a novel, scripted, bystander microaggression intervention tool for medical students

BackgroundMicroaggressions, subtle and often unintentional acts of hostility, have been recognized as a significant issue in healthcare, adversely affecting learners’ emotional and physical well-being. Current strategies for addressing microaggressions are broad frameworks without empirical substantiation that leave learners without a clear direction for intervention. This study introduces a novel scripted, succinct, bystander intervention tool to combat microaggressions. The intervention tool developed by the research team, named I-RANT, follows the script of introduction, role naming, affirming the target, negating the microaggression, and transitioning within patient encounters. The study goal was to assess the ability of a training session to impact learners’ recognition of microaggressions, confidence in intervening, and competency in applying the I-RANT tool.MethodsA pre-experimental study was conducted with 97 second-year medical students at a large academic center in the Southeast United States. The I-RANT tool was taught through a 90-minute training session. The session included an introduction lecture, small group discussions, and role-play scenarios. Pre- and post-intervention surveys assessed microaggression recognition via a multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ) and self-reported confidence in intervening on a Likert scale. Differences were compared via paired T-test. Role-play scenarios were observed by trained faculty and graded for competence using a rubric.ResultsParticipants showed significant improvement in microaggression identification with increase in MCQ score from 4.17 (SD 0.75) pre-intervention to 4.74 (SD 0.42) post-intervention (p < .001) and increased self-reported confidence from 3.2 (SD 1.0) to 4.2 (SD 0.63) (p < .001). Trained faculty evaluated a random sampling of students’ role-play scenarios (n = 30) revealing that 97% of sampled students demonstrated competence in utilizing the I-RANT tool.DiscussionThe I-RANT training session empowered learners to address microaggressions. Learners demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in recognition of microaggressions and confidence in intervening. The majority of learners demonstrated competency in utilizing the I-RANT tool by the end of the training session.ConclusionsThis study supports the effectiveness of our training session in enhancing medical students’ ability to recognize and address microaggressions. I-RANT empowers learners with a tool to intervene against microaggressions within patient encounters.

The design and evaluation of a bone health teaching module for secondary school students in NSW, Australia.

The growing prevalence of osteoporosis requires preventative management starting from an early age as peak bone mass is typically reached by age 30. However, current Australian adolescents are not adequately addressing key osteoprotective factors. Alarmingly, around 17% have insufficient vitamin D levels, 55% consume insufficient dietary calcium, and 79% are insufficiently active. Addressing these insufficiencies via bone health education and promoting healthier lifestyle choices are crucial to mitigate the risk of osteoporosis later in life. A mixed methods study was undertaken to assess the design and effectiveness of four bone health education modules implemented in PDHPE lessons across NSW secondary schools. Pre- and post-module assessments included a multiple-choice questionnaire on osteoporosis knowledge, and a survey based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour domains to examine influences on healthy bone behaviour. Statistical analysis, qualitative interviews, and focus groups were used to evaluate changes in knowledge and behaviour resulting from the modules. Participation in bone health teaching modules improved students' knowledge and behaviours related to bone health. Subjective norms had the largest influence regarding behaviour changes. Both students and teachers engaged positively with the bone health modules, which were designed by clinicians and delivered by teachers. SO WHAT?: The modules address knowledge gaps and provide strategies from an early age, empowering students and potentially contribute to improving long term bone health. There is a need to focus on promoting positive peer influence and facilitating easy access to bone-healthy behaviours in secondary education settings.

A Survey Among General Practitioners and Periodontal Specialists in Norway Documenting a Positive Attitude Towards Guideline-Based Referral Practise.

The objective of this cross-sectional survey was to assess the attitude among general practitioners (GPs) and periodontal specialists (PSs) in Norway towards developing and implementing guideline-based periodontal referral practise. A multiple-choice questionnaire was distributed online to a sample of professionally active GPs and PSs. The survey included questions on demographics, practise profile, proficiency and insight among oral healthcare providers, periodontal referral patterns, and attitude on establishing guideline-based referral practise. Logistic regression analyses were employed to estimate associations between dependent and selected independent variables. Inverse probability weights (IPW) were applied to adjust for non-response in the logistic regression models. Analyses were based on answers from 353 GPs and 49 PSs. The majority of GPs (77.9%) considered periodontal referral guidelines as a useful tool if they were available, and 59.2% of PSs expressed a positive attitude for implementing guideline-based referral practise to prevent premature or delayed referrals. In total, 93.9% of PSs reported that patients with periodontitis were being referred from GPs too late either frequently or sometimes. Females tended to be more interested in utilising referral guidelines than males (odds ratio, OR = 2.89, p < 0.001). Older GPs and those with increasing years of practising, were less interested in using referral guidelines than younger and more inexperienced GPs (both p < 0.05). The findings document a positive attitude and significant need for developing and implementing periodontal referral guidelines among GPs and PSs, ensuring timely identification and referral of patients with periodontitis.

Academic Achievement and Challenges of Students in Learning Christian Living Education 8 in a Philippine Catholic High School

This paper determined the academic achievement of students in Christian Living Education (CLE) 8 in terms of gospels, acts of the apostles, epistles, and sacraments in a Philippine Catholic High school. Likewise, it identified the challenges in learning CLE 8 relative to teachers, students, learners' environment, facilities and resources, and subject. Also, it investigated the difference in their academic achievement when grouped according to sex and religion. Using a quantitative research design, this study was responded to by 127 stratified sampled students through a validated and reliability-tested researcher-made multiple-choice test-type questionnaire and checklist. In data analysis, frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Mann-Whitney U test were employed. Generally, the student’s academic achievement is satisfactory. In terms of demographics, sex and religion were rated as satisfactory. Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in their academic achievement when grouped according to demographics. The top issues faced by the students in learning the subject are the use of traditional strategies by the teachers, difficulty in understanding the lesson, lack of encouragement for library use, and the perceived insufficient time in the subject. Hence, the study emphasizes the value of continuously improving teaching strategies, methods, pedagogy, and assessments to achieve optimal academic achievement in Christian Living Education 8. Also, the findings imply the need to address the challenges and continuously improve the learning of Christian living education.

Measurement of the Degree of Environmental Awareness of the Population of Parauapebas Based on Multivariate Analyses

Objective: The study aims to investigate the level of sustainable practices adopted by the population of Parauapebas to generate concrete data and information on the environmental awareness of its residents. Theoretical Framework: In recent years, debates about environmental issues have become frequent in various conferences, governmental institutions, and society as a whole. The adoption of ecological habits is a direct response to this crisis, not only reducing our environmental impact but also paving the way for a more sustainable future. Method: The study was conducted through a survey using a multiple-choice questionnaire addressing daily sustainable practices, knowledge about environmental responsibility, environmental education, and other elements of environmental awareness. Data was processed and tabulated using Microsoft Office Excel (2019), and the IBM SPSS 27 software was used to develop the Environmental Awareness Index of Parauapebas (ICAP), using the principal component analysis method. Results and Discussion: The results showed that approximately 67% of Parauapebas' population has a low level of environmental awareness. Among the 7 explanatory factors, only the “awareness of waste disposal” factor showed a positive result, while the others confirmed a low awareness index. Despite the results, nearly 55% believe that adopting sustainable measures is very important, indicating that residents understand the importance of environmental routines but do not put them into practice. Research Implications: The research highlights the need to strengthen environmental education campaigns to turn theoretical awareness into practical actions. The results can influence public policies aimed at the efficient use of resources, such as water and energy, and improve waste management in Parauapebas. Furthermore, the study can guide interventions to promote urban sustainability and encourage initiatives in the educational and environmental sectors by creating programs that foster ecological habits. Originality/Value: It was possible to develop a quantitative indicator with good statistical quality, allowing us to affirm that 67% of Parauapebas' population has low environmental awareness. Notably, 92% of the population wastes water during routine activities, and 83% do not take action to save energy or reuse discarded materials. The proper disposal of furniture and debris was the only factor with a positive result, where 65% of the population avoids dumping waste on city streets. Although the population understands the importance of sustainable measures, little is done in practice to preserve the city's environment.

Evaluation of a new out-of-hospital newborn life support (OH-NLS) course in the UK South West region: a mixed-methods survey study

Introduction: Unplanned out-of-hospital births (UOHBs) are associated with poorer outcomes for babies, especially those born prematurely. The current Newborn Life Support (NLS) course offered by Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) is not designed to address the challenges associated with birth out of hospital. A new course was developed to address these challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of this course on attendees’ knowledge and confidence in supporting transition, resuscitation, stabilisation and onward transfer of newborns in an out-of-hospital setting.Methods: A convergent mixed-methods approach was used consisting of pre-, post- and follow-up surveys and a post-course multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ). The surveys asked participants to rate their confidence, on a five-point Likert scale (from ‘Underconfident/fearful’ to ‘Very confident’) across seven domains of NLS, as well as making an individual assessment of provider confidence before and after the course. Free-text comments were collected and analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Attendees comprised multidisciplinary staff from the South West of England. The pre-course survey was completed by 32 of the 33 participants, the post-course survey by 31 and the MCQ by all 33. A total of 18 participants completed the follow-up survey. Analysis showed a significant, positive change in confidence across NLS domains between the pre- and post-course surveys (p &lt;0.0001).The follow-up survey data showed self-reported increases in knowledge and largely sustained confidence. The qualitative analysis revealed themes relating to the participants’ feelings about managing babies born out of hospital.Conclusion: The proof-of-concept OH-NLS course appears to address the learning needs of the target professional group, and the results suggest improved knowledge and confidence in the immediate management of babies born out of hospital. Further evaluation is required to determine whether such training has a long-term impact and translates into improved outcomes across a larger group of participants.

The Prevention of Maternal Phenylketonuria (PKU) Syndrome: The Development and Evaluation of a Specific Training Program.

Maternal phenylketonuria (PKU) syndrome, leading to severe psychomotor retardation, microcephaly, cardiac defects and undergrowth, affects the unborn children of mothers with PKU with insufficient metabolic control during pregnancy. To improve long-term outcomes, a specific prevention program was developed. We designed a group training program for young women with PKU (>14 years) and their partners. Knowledge regarding PKU therapy and pregnancy was evaluated by a specifically developed multiple-choice questionnaire. In addition, scores of anxiety and depression were evaluated. Patients (n = 20) and their partners (n = 13) significantly improved their knowledge after participation (correct answers: patients-86% vs. 90%, p = 0.003; partners-78% vs. 89%, p = 0.012). Females significantly improved their knowledge about diet (90% vs. 100%, p = 0.035) and metabolism (91% vs. 100%, p = 0.016), but not concerning gynecological topics. Patients' median depression scores were within the normative range, with a slight decrease over time (6 points vs. 4 points, p = 0.836). Patients' anxiety score remained stable over time (5.5 vs. 5, p = 0.247). Of trained mothers with PKU, four pregnancies with ideal metabolic control and healthy offspring could be observed. We suggest the inclusion of specific training programs in the standard care of female young adults with PKU, including for their partners.

Virtual Reality in Clinical Teaching and Diagnostics for Liver Surgery: Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract Background Learning and applying anatomy are essential but are studied and done through 2D tools and imaging techniques. This study aims to verify the usefulness of an additional 3D technique and ensure an improvement in the visualization of anatomical structures and pathological findings. Objective The study aims to examine the usefulness of virtual reality (VR) technology as an additional tool in medical diagnostics. Groups of students, residents, and specialists in surgery, radiology, and internal medicine evaluated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) by answering a multiple-choice questionnaire. Subsequently, a virtual 3D display was used for processing. The questionnaire focused on topographical conditions and the transfer of academic knowledge into clinical application. The main objective was to determine anatomical understanding in a comparison between sectional image (2D) presentation and additional VR (3D) presentation, measured through correctly answered questions and processing time. The system usability scale (SUS) was integrated as another criterion for VR usability. Methods The cross-over study assessed 63 participants regarding their knowledge of liver anatomy and pathologies based on an interindividual comparison. Group formation according to the respective level of medical training was as follows: students (n=35), residents (n=15), and specialists (n=13). Participants answered 25 multiple-choice questions first using sectional imaging (MRI) in a 2D environment (computer screen) and afterward with the respective segmented 3D model visualized in a VR simulation. The main criteria for the analyses were the number of correctly answered questions and processing time. A customized SUS was used to analyze VR usability. Missing data analysis showed that there were no accounted missing data. Results The rate of correct answers improved significantly with the additional use of VR (F1,59=314.376; P&lt;.001). Using MRI, a significant difference was observed between students and residents (P=.04) and between students and specialists (P&lt;.001). In the VR condition, no significant differences between groups were found. In the MRI condition, significant differences in processing time were observed between students and specialists (P=.02) and between residents and specialists (P=.04). No differences existed between students and residents. With VR, processing time decreased significantly in all groups (F1,59=280.700; P&lt;.001). Significant differences between students and specialists (P=.02) and between students and residents (P=.004) remained. No notable differences between residents and specialists (P=.72) were found. The SUS showed a subjectively simplified answerability of the questions with additional use of VR. The usefulness and benefits for an additional use of VR were stated. Conclusions The additional use of VR suggests statistically significant improvements across all groups. VR seems to enable students and residents to participate in diagnostics and create treatment plans at an early stage. Transferred to clinical practice, this may lead to improvement in diagnostics and interventions. The lack of randomization and a potential learning effect are the main limitations to be addressed in future studies.

Expert opinion on factors associated with severe laryngeal injury after intubation in the pediatric population: a worldwide survey study.

To minimize post-intubation laryngeal injury it is important to identify the factors that contribute to the development of these lesions. Previous literature has been inconsistent. This survey aims to investigate experts' opinions on the various factors associated with severe laryngeal injury following intubation in the pediatric population and to determine whether these opinions influence the treatment of patients with one or more of these factors. A multiple-choice questionnaire with the possibility to provide open text answers was developed and sent by email, WhatsApp and Siilo to members of the scientific societies of anesthesiology, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine and ear nose throat surgeons worldwide. Responses were analyzed thematically. A total of 363 physicians worldwide responded to the survey, mainly anesthesiologists (31%), intensivists (35%) and ENT surgeons (29%). The majority of the respondents (69%) had over 10years of experience in pediatric airway management. Overall, factors with the highest agreement (> 80% of respondents) were 'traumatic intubation', 'multiple intubation attempts', 'the use of oversized tubes', 'skill level of the intubator', 'repeated intubations' and 'period of intubation', specifically in small (weight < 2kg, age < 1year) children. The factors 'use of muscle relaxants' and 'biological sex' were not considered relevant. In accordance with their daily practice, physicians from different specialties reported varying factors as being relevant. These assumptions influence their routine decisions regarding intubation and extubation procedures. Although not extensively supported by literature, the majority of the experts indicate that factors such as 'traumatic intubation', 'multiple intubation attempts', 'oversized tubes', 'skill level of the intubator', 'repeated intubations' and 'period of intubation' are the most relevant factors in the development of post-intubation severe laryngeal injury in the pediatric population. Physicians from different specialisms also highlight specialism specific factors they consider most significant which influence their day-to-day clinical practice.

The doctor’s presence created a safe space - a mixed methods study of students’ learning outcomes from an elective course in palliative medicine

BackgroundCompetence in palliative medicine is required in clinical practice. Based on a literature review, we developed a two-week elective course in palliative medicine for 5th and 6th year medical students. We wanted to study learning outcomes from the course, especially related to knowledge, confidence, and reflections on the doctor’s role in palliative care.MethodsA multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ) assessed knowledge in palliative care pre and post course. The Thanatophobia Scale (TS) and the Self-efficacy in Palliative Care Scale (SEPC) measured confidence in communication with patients close to death and in providing palliative care, respectively. Reflection notes were analysed using Systematic Text Condensation, a cross-case thematic analysis. Lave & Wenger’s theory about situated learning was used to support interpretations.ResultsFrom 2018 to 2022 we ran four courses for a total of 48 students. Test results improved over the course in all four groups. On average, MCQ scores increased by 22% (range 13–33), TS scores were reduced by 28% (24–32), and SEPC scores increased by 50% (42–64), reflecting increased confidence in dealing with seriously ill and dying patients and their relatives. The participants prepared reflection notes describing their main impressions and take-home messages from the course, focusing specifically on the role of the doctor. They described the doctor’s role linked to an overarching task of creating a sense of security for patients and relatives. Through the course, and especially through talking to patients and relatives and being part of the interprofessional team, the participants learned how this sense of security was built by gaining competence in the following domains: 1) Patient-centred communication about the disease, expected trajectory, and needs, establishing common ground and support; 2) Being the medical expert in symptom relief and decision-making, providing guidance and reassurance in difficult situations; 3) Professionalism rooted in a holistic and relational approach; and 4) Being a good team player, aware of their function and limitations.ConclusionsA two-week student-selected course in palliative medicine improved knowledge and skills and increased confidence in providing palliative care. The comprehensive understanding of the doctor’s role obtained in this course may also be relevant to other clinical specialties.Trial registrationNot applicable (no clinical trial).

Analysis of High School Students' Mathematical Literacy Skills in Solving Contextual Problems on SPtDV Material

Mathematical literacy is one of the abilities that must be possessed in today's 21st-century education. This study aims to describe the mathematical literacy skills of grade X students at one of the Yogyakarta high schools in Bantul Regency in solving contextual problems on SPtDV (System of Inequality of Two Variables) material. The method used was descriptive qualitative. Data were collected through multiple-choice tests, descriptions, and questionnaires using SPtDV material. Data analysis was done by reducing and presenting data, and drawing conclusions based on indicators of students' mathematical literacy (mathematical process). Sampling of the population was carried out using a non-purposive sampling technique. To determine the number of samples to be taken, researchers used a saturated sampling technique. The research subjects were students of class X of Yogyakarta Private Senior High School in Bantul Regency in the first semester of the 2023/2024 academic year, with a total of 20 students. The results showed that students with high ability were able to fulfill all three aspects of the indicators in mathematical literacy skills, namely formulating, using, and interpreting. While students with moderate ability were able to fulfill two aspects of the indicator, namely formulating and using. And students with low ability were only able to fulfill one aspect of the indicator, namely formulating. The percentage of results obtained is based on the Mathematical Literacy Profile Criteria, namely: 10% proficient, 60% proficient, 15% basic, and 15% need special intervention. This study implies that it is important for other researchers to explore the factors that influence the mathematical literacy skills of low-ability students, especially in high school students or equivalent.

5147 Use of hypertonic saline in severe symptomatic hyponatraemia; results from a national survey from United Kingdom

Abstract Disclosure: M. Arshad: None. A. Iqbal: None. Background: Acute severe symptomatic hyponatraemia is potentially life-threatening. Irrespective of the underlying aetiology, hypertonic saline (HTS) is effective at rapidly correcting serum sodium. Several clinical treatment guidelines have aimed to standardise the administration of HTS. The European Society of Endocrinology (ESE) guidelines (2014) recommend two boluses of 150 mL 3% HTS with an aim to raise serum sodium concentration by 5 mmol/L([1]). It is important to note that the evidence supporting this approach is limited, and concerns have been raised regarding the potential for overcorrection using this protocol(2). Aim: To assess the practices and perceptions surrounding hypertonic saline (HTS) use in severe symptomatic hyponatraemia among United Kingdom (UK) endocrinologists and specialty trainees (fellows). Methods: An anonymous online survey was disseminated to all clinical members of the Society for Endocrinology (UK) between 24/10/2023 and 30/11/2023 using Survey Monkey ®, a web-based multiple-choice questionnaire. Results: Of 133 respondents (60.1% consultants, 33.1% specialty trainees, 6.8% other), 85% employed bolus treatment with HTS only, with 9.8% using both bolus and continuous infusions. Most (50.4%) preferred 150 mL boluses, followed by 100 mL boluses (18.8%). Commonly used HTS strengths were 2.7% (45.1%), followed by 1.8% (31.6%), while the 3% HTS strength recommended by ESE guidance was used by 21.8%. Only 7 (5.3%) respondents used weight-based HTS dosage. Contrary to guidelines, 74.4% did not administer a second bolus without waiting for sodium result from the first bolus. Also, 86% have experience using venous blood gas sodium readings for monitoring, even though this has not been mentioned or recommended in the guidelines. HTS was always administered in high-dependency settings by 16.5% and mostly administered in this setting by 49.6%. Overcorrection targets defined by 10 and 8 mmol/24 hours cut-offs were used by 48.9% and 39.9%, respectively. For definite or expected overcorrection, 75.9% preferred 5% dextrose, while 40.6% had experience with desmopressin (DDAVP). Conclusion: Significant variation exists in HTS use for severe symptomatic hyponatraemia in the UK, deviating from guidelines, especially regarding a second bolus without assessing the first bolus's biochemical impact. European guidelines warrant an evidence-based revision to harmonize clinical practice.

Pharmacy Undergraduates’ Epistemic Cognition and Medication Beliefs as Predictors of Conceptual Learning and Academic Progress

The importance of studies showing the impact of students' epistemic beliefs on their conceptual learning and academic progress is increasing. This study investigated pharmacy students’ domain-specific epistemic cognition and topic-specific beliefs related to their level of conceptual prior knowledge, learning and study progress during the first academic year. Data were collected from 125 students using a pre-test/post-test design with a multiple-choice questionnaire, an open-ended case task and a measure of domain-specific epistemic cognition and topic-specific beliefs concerning medication. The results showed that students’ prior knowledge predicted their academic performance and more sophisticated epistemic cognition was related to better conceptual understanding, faster study progress, and fewer anti-medication beliefs. Anti-medication beliefs hindered participants’ success in the case task and were related to weaker study progress. Our study shows that epistemic cognition and topic-specific beliefs play a role in students’ performance, learning, and study progress

EFFECTIVENESS OF IEC PACKAGE ON KNOWLEDGE REGARDING CHILD MOLESTATION AMONG SCHOOL CHILDREN (6 TO 12 YEARS) IN SELECTED SCHOOL AT VILLUPURAM

Aim: to assess the effectiveness of IEC package on knowledge regarding child molestation among school children (6 to 12 years) in selected school at Villupuram. Objectives: (i) to assess pre test and post test level of knowledge regarding child molestation among school children (6 - 12 years).(ii) to identify the effectiveness of IEC package on knowledge regarding child molestation among school children( 6 - 12 years).(iii) to associate the post test level of knowledge regarding child molestation among school children with their selected demographic variables. Methodology: The quantitative approach and pre-experimental one group pre test and post test research design adopted for this study. The study was conducted at Government High School, V.Salai, Villupuram. 50 samples were selected for the study by using non probability convenience sampling technique. Data collected by using investigators prepared structured multiple choice questionnaires. Results: The finding shows that the pre test mean value was 5.14 with the standard deviation of 2.73 and the post test mean value was 17.86 with a standard deviation of 1.19. The t test value is 29.58 this showed a significant difference between pre and post level of knowledge and there was no significant association between post test level of knowledge regarding child molestation among school children with their selected socio-demographic variables. Conclusion: The study finding concluded that level of knowledge regarding child molestation among school children was improved after IEC package administration. Hence it was proved that the IEC package was effective in improving the level of knowledge.

Toward an innovative function-oriented assessment methodology (FOAM) for evaluating the functional condition of buildings during the operation and maintenance phase

This paper introduces a foundational approach toward defining a Function-Oriented Assessment Methodology (FOAM) for evaluating the functional condition of buildings during the operation and maintenance phase. Although various national classification systems exist, a unified international system for organizing construction elements has not been widely adopted. To bridge this gap, the paper proposes adopting an international standard-based classification system for identifying objects within a function-oriented structure. Traditional inspections often focus on damage, overlooking the functional condition of construction elements. This research addresses these limitations with a comprehensive methodological approach tailored to assess functional condition. It employs a multiple-choice questionnaire adapted from international rating scales to ensure consistency and minimize subjectivity among inspectors. A case study validates the effectiveness of this strategic framework, demonstrating high consistency and accuracy in evaluating functional conditions. Overall, this research lays the groundwork for FOAM, offering a clear path for its broader application in the built environment.

Barriers in Accessing Orthodontic Care for Patients with Orofacial Clefts: Insights from a Florida-Based Survey and National Database Analysis.

To assess the barriers to obtaining care for patients with orofacial clefts through a survey of Florida-based orthodontists and families and an analysis of the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database. A cross-sectional study utilizing multiple-choice questionnaires completed by Florida orthodontists and caregivers of patients who attended a Florida-based cleft and craniofacial clinic. Additionally, data from the PHIS database were analyzed to investigate national factors affecting the age of alveolar bone grafting (ABG). Craniofacial team in Florida. The survey included 39 orthodontists (7.1% response rate) and 48 caregivers (41% response rate) The PHIS study included 1182 patients. Barrier to orthodontic care and age of ABG. Orthodontic Survey: Among the surveyed orthodontists, 71% treated cleft/craniofacial patients, 37% accepted Medicaid, and 55% provided pro-bono care. Poor reimbursement was identified as the most common barrier (58%). Caregiver Survey: Most patients were insured by Medicaid (67%), with 55% incurring out-of-pocket expenses. PHIS Database: The average age of ABG was 10.3 years (SD = 3.2). Government funding was associated with a 6.0-month delay in ABG (p = 0.047) and residing in non-Medicaid expanded states was linked to a 6.0-month delay (p = 0.023). Post-Medicaid expansion status was also associated with a delay (p = 0.004). Access to oral care is difficult for patients with OFC. Despite both federal and state mandates, many financial and non-financial barriers still exist in accessing orthodontic care and a majority of patients experience significant out-of-pocket expenses despite statutorily mandated insurance coverage.

Evaluation of the Turkish Population's Knowledge about Dental Implants

Aim: Dental implants have become the most preferred treatment method for tooth loss. The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge and preferences of individuals living in Turkey regarding dental implants. Material and Method: In this research, a multiple-choice questionnaire was administered to assess individuals' knowledge levels and reasons for preference concerning dental implants. The survey was conducted online among men and women aged 18-79 who had never undergone implant treatment, residing in various provinces of Turkey. The statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed using the SPSS program and the chi-square test. Results: A total of 429 individuals participated in the study, including 196 men (45.7%) and 233 women (54.3%). Of the participants, 47.9% learned about the concept of dental implants from dentists, and 57.6% reported having partial knowledge. A majority of 67.7% preferred to have implant treatment performed by a specialist dentist. 87.8% believed that dental implants are not harmful to health after treatment. Most participants indicated that the most crucial factor in the preference for implants is the dentist's recommendation (54.2%). Conclusion: This study provides significant data for understanding the knowledge levels and factors influencing the preferences of individuals regarding dental implants. While highlighting the critical role of dentists in providing information and guidance, it also underscores the need to increase awareness about dental implants among the general population. Accordingly, broader informational and educational efforts are necessary to promote more widespread and correct application of dental implant treatments.

Metabolic Surgery and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: Perceptions of Former NFL Players.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) has been diagnosed in 91.7% of retired United States National Football League (NFL) players at postmortem. There is no treatment or cure for CTE. Most living former NFL athletes with probable CTE suffer from obesity and its comorbidities. Our previous reviews document the improvement in cognition following metabolic/bariatric surgery (MBS) (e.g., gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy). These operations might reduce microglial maladaptive states, thereby attenuating neurodegeneration and CTE-like neurocognitive impairment. The study evaluated former NFL players' views on metabolic surgery in relation to reduction of obesity and CTE risk. An online multiple-choice questionnaire (30 items, 125 response options, 10-min completion) developed in the Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) system was sent to 1,014 athletes screened in 2017-2022 by the Living Heart Foundation. From 2/2022 to 7/2023, of 700 surveys opened, 72 (10.3%) of the retired players responded. Mean age was 61.6 ± 12.6years; 45.0% had the disease of obesity with a mean BMI 35.5 ± 4.6kg/m2. Thirty-three percent reported ≥ 2 obesity-related comorbidities; 40.3% memory-related TBI symptoms; 66.7% ≥ 1 cognitive symptom; 85.0% believed MBS was safe and effective but were unlikely to elect MBS for weight management. Yet, 57.0% of the entire cohort, and 68.8% of players with obesity were more likely to elect MBS if it could also reduce CTE risk. Results of the study bode well for future research recruitment. Most surveyed retired NFL players with obesity believed MBS to be effective and would be more likely to undergo MBS if it also reduced CTE risk.