Parametric Statistical Tests Research Articles

Pengaruh Model Game Based Learning Terhadap Aktivitas dan Hasil Belajar Komputer Siswa Kelas V di SD Plus Marhamah

The variation of the game-based learning model and aims to determine its influence on the activities and learning outcomes of grade V students at SD Plus Marhamah. The research method applied in this study is quantitative with a quasy experiment design. The sampling technique uses purposive sampling. The sample was represented by class V.B as the control group and class V.C as the experimental group, each totaling 25 students. Data was collected through questionnaires for learning activities and tests for learning outcomes. Data analysis included normality test, homogeneity test, and t-test at a significance level of 0.05 to see the difference between the control group and the experiment. The results of the study showed that there was a significant influence of the application of the game-based learning model on student activities and learning outcomes. Based on this parametric statistical test (one tailed test), significant differences can be seen between the experimental class and the control class, both in activities and learning outcomes. Thus, it can be concluded that the game-based learning model has a positive and significant impact on the activities and learning outcomes of grade V students at SD Plus Marhamah

Self Help Groups as a Support System: Their Influence on Stress Levels in New Nursing Students

New students must adapt to a new environment because of the differences in the nature of education in Senior High School (SMA) and college. If students are unable to meet the demands in college, it can cause stress. One of the therapeutic activities that aims to improve and maintain mental health in students is Self Help Group (SHG) therapy . The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of Self Help Group (SHG) on stress levels in new students of the Nursing Study Program at the University of Muhammadiyah Gresik. This study uses a one group pretest-posttest approach. The population is 48 new students of the Nursing Study Program, Muhammadiyah University of Gresik, class of 2023. The sampling technique uses total sampling , with the research sample being all new students of the Nursing Study Program. Data collection uses questionnaires and Self Help Group (SHG) therapy observation sheets. Data analysis uses the parametric statistical test of the paired T-test (Paired Sample T-Test). The results of the study on stress levels before being given Self Help Group (SHG) therapy were that almost half of the students experienced severe stress as many as 21 (48.8%) and after being given Self Help Group (SHG) therapy, almost half of them experienced a decrease in severe stress levels in new students as many as 16 (37.2%) students. The results of the Paired Sample T-Test statistical test obtained a ρ value of 0.038 <α 0.05. There is an influence of Self Help Group (SHG) on stress levels in new students of the Nursing Science Study Program, Muhammadiyah University of Gresik.

The relationship between cause of death and skeletal markers of physiological stress in the Hamann-Todd collection.

Socioeconomic status, past stress events, and other factors may contribute to the cumulative burden of physiological stress, which influences an individual's susceptibility to mortality and cause of death (COD). Here, we explore the association between skeletal evidence of stress and COD in the Hamann-Todd Osteological Collection (HTOC), a predominantly low socioeconomic status sample from the late 19th and early 20th century. Skeletal markers of stress including linear enamel hypoplasia (LEH), stature, and antemortem tooth loss (AMTL) were analyzed in 298 individuals in the HTOC. Recorded CODs were grouped into six broad categories and contrasted with stress indicators, ages-at-death, and demographic variables, using various parametric and non-parametric statistical tests. COD varied by socially ascribed race and sex within the sample. Overall, infectious diseases were more prevalent than degenerative diseases. Individuals that died of infectious diseases had significantly lower ages-at-death compared to degenerative diseases (p < 0.001). There was no association between LEH and COD (χ2 = 4.449, p = 0.487). Stature varied significantly across COD categories for males (F = 2.534, p = 0.032), but not females (F = 1.733, p = 0.132). Controlling for age-at-death, AMTL prevalence was associated with COD (H = 18.53, p = 0.002), with cardiovascular disease being associated with higher prevalence of AMTL. These findings show that some skeletal stress indicators are associated with COD in the HTOC, but the causal pathways of these relationships are not clear. This study adds to growing bodies of literature exploring relationships between past stress events and susceptibility to mortality and long-term consequences of poor living conditions for past individuals.

The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Using Cognitive Restructuring Techniques in Group Settings to Reduce Smoking Behavior in Adolescents

There are numerous factors that drive adolescents to smoke, one of which is the presence of negative or irrational thoughts related to smoking behavior itself. Such thoughts include beliefs that smoking makes them appear more masculine, more accepted within their social circles, among other irrational perceptions. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) using cognitive restructuring techniques in a group setting to reduce smoking frequency in adolescents by addressing their irrational thought patterns. A quantitative experimental method was employed, using a pretest-posttest control group design. A total of 8 students were randomly assigned to two groups. Data analysis was conducted using parametric statistical tests, specifically the independent sample t-test and the correlated/paired sample t-test. The results indicate that cognitive restructuring techniques applied in group setting significantly reduce smoking behavior among adolescents.

A Comparative Study of the Morals of PAI IAIN Kerinci Students Who Participate in the Ma'had Al-Jamiah Program with Non-Participants

This research was conducted to determine the difference in moral levels between Islamic Education (PAI) students who participated in the Ma'had al-Jamiah program at IAIN Kerinci and those who did not participate (non-participants). The method used was a quantitative research method with a survey approach. The questionnaire consisted of 10 items containing indicators of morality towards Allah SWT, morality towards fellow human beings, and morality towards the environment. The total sample size was 70 PAI students, comprising 35 students who participated in the Ma'had al-Jamiah program and 35 non-participants. This study conducted normality tests and statistical tests using SPSS. Based on the normality test, the morality of PAI students who participated in the program was normally distributed (significance value 0.071 &gt; 0.05), while PAI students who did not participate in the program were not normally distributed (significance value 0.00 &lt; 0.05). Therefore, data analysis was conducted using parametric statistical tests with Mann Whitney U. The results of the statistical tests showed that the significance value for morality (0.682) was greater than 0.05. Thus, it can be concluded that there is no significant difference between PAI students who participated in the Ma'had al-Jamiah program at IAIN Kerinci and PAI students who did not participate in the program. However, based on the interval questionnaire scores, the moral level of PAI students who participated in the program was categorized as Good (3.07), while students who did not participate were categorized as Fairly Good (2.82). Therefore, it can be said that both groups of PAI students have good moral levels.

Remineralizing capacity of zinc oxide eugenol sealer following the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid: An in vivo animal study

ObjectiveAlthough several sealers have been developed, the zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) sealer is still used in many private dental clinics. This study aimed to compare the biocompatibility and remineralizing capacity οf ZOE sealer with the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid. MethodsThis study was conducted on Twenty rabbits. The rabbits were divided into four groups based on the test observation period (3, 7, 21, and 28 days) following surgical implantation. General anesthesia was administered to each rabbit, and a subcutaneous incision of approximately 1±0.5 cm was made along the symphyseal area of the mandible of each rabbit. Four bone cavities were generated in the interdental space of the lower jaw between the central and molar teeth of each rabbit, with one longitudinal subcutaneous incision. The ZOE sealers were mixed according to the manufacturer's guidelines and directly inserted within the cavities generated at the end of each test period. The animals were sacrificed, and bone biopsy was carried out at the site of testing. The biopsy samples were obtained and subjected to histological analysis using a low-power light microscope (Olympus C ⅹ 21, Japan) and immunohistochemistry using Ki67 antibody. ResultsThe collected information was examined by parametric statistical tests using SPSS software version ‘‘22.” One-way ANOVA and post-hoc Duncan’s tests were used to measure the significance among various groups, with statistical significance set, when “P≤0.01”. ConclusionThe 20% mixed endodontic sealer displayed excellent outcomes compared to other experimental groups, as identified by higher new bone formation at every evaluation period.

Development of Augmented Reality Learning Media to Introduce Musical Instruments for Deaf Elementary School Student

This research aims to develop Augmented Reality learning media for deaf children at the elementary school level in recognizing musical instruments and measuring their effectiveness on learning outcomes. The research method used is research and development (R&amp;D) and uses the Multimedia Development Life Cycle development method. The effectiveness of the media was tested using pretest-posttest. Data analysis techniques use the parametric statistical test. The results of testing by media and content experts concluded that the application was declared suitable for use as a learning medium. From the beta test, it was discovered by 33 deaf students that Augmented Reality learning media was well received. The t-test comparison test shows that there is a difference, which means that the use of Augmented Reality learning media as a medium for introducing musical instruments to deaf students has a positive impact on learning outcomes.

Safety, Efficacy, and Feasibility of Nebulized Long-Acting Bronchodilators vs Short-Acting Bronchodilators in Hospitalized Patients With Acute Exacerbations of COPD: A Phase IV, Randomized, Parallel-Group Clinical Trial

BackgroundLong-acting bronchodilators are preferred over short-acting bronchodilators in patients with stable COPD, but prospective studies are needed to determine the safety and efficacy of nebulized long-acting bronchodilators in hospitalized patients with exacerbations of COPD (ECOPD). MethodsWe conducted a prospective, randomized, parallel-group study comparing a nebulized formoterol/revefenacin combination with an albuterol/ipratropium combination among n = 60 hospitalized patients (n = 30 in each group) with ECOPD who tested negative for COVID-19. Treatments were administered q12 to 24 hrs (formoterol/revefenacin), or q6 hrs (albuterol/ipratropium) by jet nebulizers for up to 7 days. Safety and efficacy assessments were recorded on days 1, 3, and 7, or at hospital discharge. Assessment of dyspnea by the Modified Borg dyspnea scale was the primary outcome. Data were analyzed with parametric or non-parametric statistical tests, and generalized estimating equations with an identity link function were used to analyze differences in the two groups. Statistical significance was assumed at an unadjusted two-sided alpha value of 0.05. ResultsParticipants’ mean age was 63.2 (SD 9.30) years, and 39 (65.0%) were current smokers. Patients' age, sex, race, smoking history, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, supplemental oxygen requirements, and length of hospital stay were similar in the two groups (p>0.05 for all). Patients receiving formoterol/revefenacin had similar Modified Borg dyspnea scores (p = 0.95) and required fewer total drug doses (P<0.001), but there was a non-significant trend for more frequent rescue treatments (p=0.08) compared to those receiving albuterol/ipratropium. There were no serious adverse events or treatment failures in either group. ConclusionIn non-ventilated hospitalized patients with ECOPD, the institution of nebulized formoterol/revefenacin in combination within 24 to 36 hours of hospital admission provided convenient dosing and required fewer drug doses to achieve comparable efficacy and safety with the standard short-acting nebulized albuterol/ipratropium combination.

Exploring the Evolution of Research Connectivity and Funding in Global Neurosurgical Publications

There are critical disparities in the neurosurgical care provided around the globe due to challenges in resource allocation, training, and infrastructure. Global neurosurgical collaborations have replaced classical mission trips to address these disparities. However, the development of these collaborations and the impact of research funding on their growth has not yet been systematically studied. In this article, we use a graph theoretical approach to investigate trends in funding and co-authorship between and among authors from high-income countries (HICs) and authors from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A bibliometric search of the global neurosurgical literature returned 307 articles between 1985 and 2020. A connectivity analysis was conducted to compute the number of co-authorships between HIC-HIC, LMIC-HIC, and LMIC-LMIC authors. The number of connections, summarized as either a global sum of connections or an average number of connections per manuscript, were analyzed in the context of time and funding through parametric statistical tests. An exponential increase in co-authorship collaboration was observed over time, especially after 2015. Notably, LMIC-LMIC collaborations appear to be rising at over twice the rate of other collaboration types. The presence of funding, in general, was associated with increased co-authorship of manuscripts by LMIC and HIC authors together (p = 0.033). A significant majority of the funding associated with LMIC-HIC co-authorships was supplied through charitable organizations and government grants (p = 0.034, p = 0.009, respectively). Most LMIC-LMIC co-authorships had no funding. This work shows significant and rapid growth in international neurosurgical partnerships, especially in HIC-LMIC and LMIC-LMIC collaborations. Also, a significant positive relationship exists between research funding and LMIC-HIC co-authorship trends. This work encourages us as a community to continue to expand our translational collaborations with LMIC neurosurgeons and establish funding mechanisms independent of HIC authors.

Quality of Life Assessment in Romanian Patients with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Undergoing Nusinersen Treatment.

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), identified over a century ago, is characterized by severe muscle wasting and early mortality. Despite its rarity, the high carrier frequency of the responsible genetic mutations and the variability in its manifestations make it a significant research focus. This prospective cross-sectional descriptive study evaluated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) across eight health domains in 43 Romanian SMA patients treated with nusinersen, using the SF-36 questionnaire to analyze influencing factors. The survey was conducted online with informed consent, and the data were analyzed using MedCalc software, employing both parametric and non-parametric statistical tests for accurate interpretation. The results revealed significant variations in HRQoL. Most patients were non-ambulatory (74.4%), reflecting SMA's impact on mobility. Urban residents reported better outcomes, particularly in physical functioning (p = 0.014), which may be attributed to improved access to healthcare services. Younger participants (under 14), represented by proxy responses, noted better general health (p = 0.0072) and emotional well-being (p = 0.0217) compared to older participants. These findings suggest that younger patients or their proxies perceive a better health status, highlighting the need for age-specific approaches in SMA management and the potential optimistic bias associated with proxy reporting on perceived health outcomes.

Exploring Teacher Awareness of Artificial Intelligence in Education: A Case Study from Northern Cyprus.

This study investigates the level of awareness among teachers regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, focusing on whether this awareness varies according to socio-demographic characteristics, access to technology, and specific knowledge and beliefs about AI. Conducted in Northern Cyprus during the 2023-2024 academic year, this study employed a survey model with purposive and snowball sampling methods, involving 164 teachers. Teachers at different levels, namely, primary school, secondary school, high school, and university, were included in this study. The "Artificial Intelligence Awareness Scale", developed by Ferikoğlu and Akgün (2022), was used to measure AI awareness. Data normality was verified through skewness and kurtosis values, allowing for parametric statistical tests such as t-tests, one-way ANOVA, logistic regression, and chi-square analysis. This study explored the distribution of AI use across different school types and educational levels and assessed the impact of sub-dimensions of AI awareness on its application in teaching. Findings revealed no significant influence of teacher demographics (age, gender, education level, type of school, institution level, and monthly income) on AI awareness. However, usage patterns indicated that university lecturers were more likely to incorporate AI in their teaching, followed by primary and high school teachers, with secondary school teachers using it the least. A Multilayer Neural Network Analysis identified practical knowledge as the most critical factor influencing the use of AI in teaching (importance weight of 0.450), followed by beliefs and attitudes (0.298), relatability (0.148), and theoretical knowledge (0.104). These results highlight the importance of practical knowledge for fostering AI integration in educational practices, underscoring significant implications for teacher training and professional development programs.

2287 Residents with dementia had an increase in BMI after the introduction of an extra meal in nursing homes in Norway

Abstract Introduction The past decade, many nursing homes in Norway have introduced an extra meal daily, with a hot lunch, and pushing dinner to later in the day. This initiative aims to reduce the long-time interval between breakfast and supper. This study examines how an extra meal affects the residents’ body mass index (BMI) at nursing homes in Norway. Research questions include how an extra meal affects BMI among residents in the dementia unit. Method We used a cross-sectional design to analyse data from residents over 65 years old in dementia care units. Both parametric and non-parametric statistical tests were used to evaluate changes in BMI. Results The results of the study show that the dementia unit experienced an increase in BMI following the introduction of an extra meal. At most, we saw a weight gain of up to 7 kg over two years among residents. Our study reveals that the introduction of an extra meal resulted in a slight increase in BMI among the residents with dementia, which does not correspond with previous studies indicating malnutrition among these residents. The dementia disease reduces functional abilities, and challenges related to mealtime behaviour, restlessness, and depression can lead to weight loss. The fact that our results show a slight increase in BMI at the dementia units may be related to these residents often being troubled with restlessness and not finding the peace to consume a full meal. By introducing an extra meal, the total food intake increases since residents still eat a little at each meal, and focusing more on accommodating each resident might have influenced the increase in BMI values. Conclusion The study indicates that the introduction of an extra meal has a positive effect on the BMI value of residents with dementia in nursing homes.

Effectiveness of Tendo-Muscular Massage for Pain Reduction and ROM Improvement Post-Injury Knee Joint

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of tendo-muscular massage. The method used in the research is descriptive quantitative. The sample in this study amounted to 30 people who had mild to moderate knee injuries during sports and other physical activities. The order of data collection, namely starting with the pretest measurement, then given a one-time tendo-muscullar massage treatment which is carried out for 8 minutes and ends with a posttest measurement. The research data that has been obtained is then analysed with descriptive quantitative. Interval and ratio scale data that met the normality test were analysed using the paired sample t-test parametric statistical test, while data that did not meet the normality test using the wilcoxon non-parametric statistical tests. The results of measurements with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) experienced an average pain reduction of 2.5 and a significance of 0.000 &lt;0.05, while the range of motion measured with a goniometer experienced an average increase of 6 degrees, T count of 6,819 and Significance 0.000 in flexion movements and an average increase of 0.88 degrees, T count of 7,848 and Significance 0.000 in extension movements, as well as an increase in joint motion function of 28.83%. So it can be concluded that Tendo-muscular massage has a significant effect on reducing pain and increasing the range of motion (ROM) of the knee joint. Keyword. Effectiveness, Tendo-Muscular Massage, Pain Reduction, ROM Improvement, Knee

Keefektifan Konseling Kelompok Teknik Self-Instructional untuk Meningkatkan Efikasi Diri Akademik Menghadapi Penilaian Akhir Semester

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of group counseling with self-instructional techniques in increasing academic self-efficacy in facing the Final Semester Assessment. The research method used is a quantitative experiment with a one-group pretest-posttest research design. The sample consisted of six students from class X at SMKN 5 Madiun who were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The instrument used is an academic self-efficacy scale with a Likert scale model. Data analysis used descriptive analysis and parametric statistical tests, namely the paired sample t-test. The results of this study indicate that there is a difference between the pretest and posttest scores. The level of academic self-efficacy from the pretest average score of 66.50 increased to 90.00 on the results of the posttest average score. Based on the paired sample t-test, a significance value (sig.2-tailed) of 0.000 is obtained, which results indicate less than a probability of 0.05. So it can be concluded that group counseling with self-instructional techniques is effective in increasing academic self-efficacy in dealing with the Final Semester Assessment in class X students of SMKN 5 Madiun.

678 Investigating the Fidelity and Usability of Virtual Reality Surgical Training Platforms

Abstract Introduction Virtual Reality (VR) technology has existed for decades; however, the fidelity of current applications has resulted in limited adoption in surgical training and no framework exists to assess usability of VR in surgery. This study aimed to define immersion quality and identify which metrics surgical trainees and trainers prioritise when utilising VR. Method Surgical trainees and trainers were eligible for inclusion. Participants were purposively sampled from delegates at the RCS England Future Surgery Show 2023. A 14-point questionnaire generated through steering-group expert consensus was utilised. Immersion was measured using the NASA Fidelity Rating Scale (1;excellent–6;very bad) and a usability importance metric (1;extremely important–5;not important). Parametric statistical tests were used following test of normality (µ=0.05). Results 34(23M:10F) responses were analysed. 50%(n=17) were completing or had completed surgical training with experience across 8 different VR systems. 18%(n=6) had experienced side-effects. Mean immersion across the systems was 2.7±0.8(Good/Fair). ‘Ease of Use’(1.4±0.6) and ‘Translatable Training’(1.4±0.5) were the highest priority usability metrics with ‘Access’(1.9±0.8), ‘User Comfort’(1.6±0.6) and improvement in ‘Economy of Movement’(1.9±0.7) also regarded as Extremely important or Important. There was an observed difference in ‘User Comfort’ importance between Male(1.6±0.4) and Female(1.1±0.2) participants which approached significance(p=0.07). Conclusions Immersion of available VR surgical training platforms requires improvement. Side-effects remain common. Ease of use and translatable training are the highest priority metrics for end-users and should be central to any framework. Gender differences in VR usability requires further investigation.

Efektivitas Penggunaan Video Animasi Powtoon pada Materi Jamur terhadap Hasil Belajar Siswa Kelas X

The aim of this research is to determine the effectiveness of using powtoon animation videos on mushroom material on the learning outcomes of class X students at SMA Negeri 1 Pemangkat. The form of research used is Quasy Experimental Design with a Non-Equivalent Control Group Design research design. The samples for this research were classes X C (control class) and X D (experimental class). Intact Group sampling technique. The instrument used is a multiple choice test with a total of 20 questions. The average value of learning outcomes for experimental class students was 15.22, while the average value of learning outcomes for control class was 14.28. Based on the results of parametric statistical tests (t-test), the results obtained are tcount 3.13 &gt; ttable 2.03 so it can be concluded that H0 is rejected and Ha is accepted, where there are differences in the learning outcomes of students who are taught using Powtoon animation video media and students who are taught using charta media. . Based on the results of the effect size of learning using powtoon animation video media, it obtained a value of 0.78 in the medium category, meaning that the effectiveness of learning using powtoon animation video media on mushroom material was classified as moderate in improving the learning outcomes of class X students at SMA Negeri 1 Pemangkat by 28.23%.

Application of Chemistry E-Magazine Media to Students' Interest in Learning in Public Senior High School

This study aims to test the effect of e-magazine chemistry media on students' interest in learning buffer solution material. This research uses a quasi-experimental design. The data collection technique used was an interest questionnaire in the form of 20 statements that were tested for the validity of the items, with the results of all statements being valid and a reliability of 0.811, so the questionnaire has a very high level of reliability. The data analysis was done using a t-test at a sig value. (2-tailed) 0.05 parametric statistical test analysis through SPSS software version 25. The experimental class was given treatment using e-magazine chemistry media, and the control class used textbooks. The experimental class's average pre-test and post test scores were 56.18 and increased to 82, while the control class's scores were 55.26 and increased to 65.26. Based on the results of the study, it was shown that the use of e-magazine chemistry was influenced in learning buffer solution material in terms of the data analysis of 0.000. This study implies that e-magazine chemistry can improve students' interest.

Exploring the content of epilepsy fellowship program websites: an analysis of information available to applicants

BackgroundProgram websites are essential resources in the process of residency and fellowship application. We evaluated the information furnished on these resources by Epilepsy fellowship programs. The extent of information provided was compared across geographic zones, academic affiliation, and national ranking.MethodsA list of Epilepsy fellowship programs was derived from the Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database (FREIDA). Links to program websites were obtained directly from FREIDA or using Google’s search engine. Online data was categorized to reflect program information, education, recruitment, compensation, epilepsy center-specific information, and social media presence. Data points under each category were collected to develop a standardized scoring system. The frequency of criterion present was compared across geographic zones, academic affiliation, and national ranking using parametric and non-parametric statistical tests. Significance was determined at a p-value ≤ 0.05 for all cases. The study utilized IBM SPSS version 28 and Python 3.11.3.ResultsWe analyzed 80 Epilepsy fellowship programs. The most reported feature was the program director’s name and email (100.0%). The least reported features included board pass rates (1.3%), preparatory boot camp (8.8%), and post-fellowship placements (11.3%). Programs were found to be well-represented on X (88.8%), Facebook (81.3%), and Instagram (71.3%). Most (85.0%) of the programs were searchable through Google. The scores for program information, education, recruitment, compensation, epilepsy center-specific information, and social media visibility did not significantly vary based on location, academic affiliation, or rank status.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate that despite an online presence, there is much room for improvement in the content available to the applicant. To improve the Match process and attract a roster of well-informed fellows, Epilepsy fellowship programs should furnish program websites with up-to-date information relevant to program information, education, recruitment, compensation, and epilepsy center-specific information.

Diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tractography of the normal epididymis.

To evaluate the feasibility of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and fiber tractography (FT) of the normal epididymis and to determine normative apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) values. Twenty-eight healthy volunteers underwent MRI of the scrotum, including DTI on a 3.0T system. For each anatomic part of the epididymis (head, body and tail) free-hand regions of interest were drawn and the mean ADC and FA were measured by two radiologists in consensus. Parametric statistical tests were used to determine intersubject differences in ADC and FA between the anatomic parts of each normal epididymis and between bilateral epididymides. Fiber tracts of the epididymis were reconstructed using the MR Diffusion tool. The mean ADC and FA of the normal epididymis was 1.31 × 10-3 mm2/s and 0.20, respectively. No differences in ADC (p = 0.736) and FA (p = 0.628) between the anatomic parts of each normal epididymis were found. Differences (p = 0.020) were observed in FA of the body between the right and the left epididymis. FT showed the fiber tracts of the normal epididymis. Main study's limitations include the following: small number of participants with narrow age range, absence of histologic confirmation and lack of quantitative assessment of the FT reconstructions. DTI and FT of the normal epididymis is feasible and allow the noninvasive assessment of the structural and geometric organization of the organ.

Histological Evaluation of Alveolar Ridge Preservation Using Different Bone Grafts: Clinical Study Analysis Part II.

To compare histologically the percentage of bone formation 12-20 weeks after ridge augmentation using 2 different techniques. Tooth loss is associated with 3-dimensional bone remodeling and ridge atrophy. Ridge preservation procedures can prevent alveolar bone volume loss. Different techniques and materials are used to preserve the alveolar ridge. Computer-generated randomization software was used to assign 2 ridge preservation techniques for 11 extraction sites. In group I, type I bovine Achilles tendon collagen plugs with bioactive resorbable calcium apatite crystals (CPCAC) were placed, and in group II, cortico-cancellous bone chips (CCBC) mix and an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) barrier membrane were placed. The histomorphometric studies were performed using a computer-based image analysis system (ImageJ 1.4, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Md) to calculate the pixel area of bone tissue and the remaining bone graft material. The histomorphometric data were analyzed using a Student t test to compare the measurements between the 2 experimental groups. This parametric statistical test was employed to determine if there were any statistically significant differences in the quantitative histological parameters between the groups. The sockets that received CPCAC showed a lower (31.89%) percentage of native bone surface area compared with the CCBC group (43.87%). However, the difference was not statistically significant (P < .05). In addition, the CPCAC group showed evidence of foreign-body reaction. The CCBC graft covered with an ePTFE barrier may induce more bone formation with minimal inflammation in an extraction socket compared with a collagen plug with calcium apatite crystals. In addition, histological analysis of the CPCAC graft showed evidence of foreign-body reaction, which indicates a negative clinical impact.