Postgraduate Training Research Articles

Training received, knowledge, and use of Silver Diamine Fluoride among Italian dentists: a nationwide survey

ObjectiveTo investigate the education, knowledge and behaviour of Italian dentists regarding Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF).MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2022, through an online survey linked to an online continuing medical education (CME) course sent to Italian dentists. A priori power analysis estimated the necessary sample to be 1480 dentists with an anticipated frequency of 50% and a power of 99.99%. The questionnaire included 46 questions on participants ‘ demographic characteristics, training received, clinical knowledge of SDF, and attitudes and behaviours regarding its use. Descriptive statistics, bivariate, and mutlivariable regression analyses were performed to determine the association between the variables.ResultsThe response rate was 6.1% with 3876 respondents, evenly distributed geographically. Less than 10% of respondents had received training at undergraduate, postgraduate or masters level. A minority of dentists were familiar with the use of SDF for the treatment of dentine hypersensitivity (19.0%) and for the treatment of caries in children (22.2%) and adults (15.7%). The percentage of dentists who reported SDF use at least once was 20.6%. On mutlivariable analysis (χ2(11) = 995.9 p-value < 0.01), dentists who used SDF were positively associated with those who cared for patients with special needs, those who received good undergraduate or postgraduate training, and those who knew how to use SDF (p < 0.01). A second mutlivariable analysis (χ2(11) = 47.9 p-value < 0.01) revealed that younger respondents were associated with good training and knowledge of the use of SDF received during undergraduate studies, while older respondents were associated with good training received on managing hypersensitivity and caries in adults (p < 0.01).ConclusionsOverall, Italian dentists ‘ education, knowledge, and use of SDF were relatively poor. The majority of the sample ‘s responses were not consistent with scientific evidence. The use of SDF among Italian dentists is still far from being a reality. In Italy, it is necessary to increase training on SDF, primarily through the university, to hopefully increase its use, especially in non-invasive caries treatment.

Epistemic justice in teaching co-production: a perspective from clinical psychology training

Purpose Service-User and Carer (SUC) involvement in health care education is becoming the norm. Simultaneously, voices highlighting the risks of tokenism continue. The authors critique dominant frameworks for SUC involvement and present a case study of teaching collaboration between a lecturer and SUC Advisory Group in Clinical Psychology training. The authors argue that epistemic justice gives a constructive lens for making SUC participation meaningful. Design/methodology/approach Members of the University of Surrey SUC Advisory Group and a lecturer delivered a learning session, themed around barriers to accessing mental health services. In the first academic cycle, SUC members remotely facilitated group discussion around a core barrier, e.g. social class. Following feedback, the same session in the next cycle consisted of Trainee debate stimulated by SUC videos that foregrounded intersectionality in considering barriers and solutions. Findings In critically evaluating our collaboration, processes fostering epistemic justice included ring-fenced time for planning, leadership by SUC members, creating governance mechanisms on use of videos and SUC receiving payment. To deepen epistemically just practice, SUC teaching input should be invited routinely and SUC identity explicitly contrasted to academic staff. Originality/value The authors provide a framework for evaluating the richness of SUC involvement on a post-graduate training programme. This focus on epistemic justice allowed more nuanced reflections on equitability than current SUC involvement models allow for.

A contentious intervention to support the medical workforce: a case study of the policy of introducing physician associates in the United Kingdom

BackgroundHealth systems across Europe are facing a workforce crisis, with some experiencing severe shortages of doctors. In response, many are exploring greater task-sharing, across established professions, such as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, with patients and carers, and with new occupational groups, in particular ones that can assist doctors and relieve their workload.Case presentationIn the early 2000s the United Kingdom created a new occupational role, that of physician assistant. They had a science degree and then underwent a 2-year postgraduate training course. The name soon changed, to physician associate, and the range of roles and responsibilities expanded greatly, although in a largely unregulated manner; by 2024, some were undertaking complex procedures or managing undifferentiated patients in primary care. Catalysed by some high-profile failings, this expansion has generated major concerns, over patient safety and consent, the scope of practice and preferential employment conditions of this group, the adverse consequences for medical training, and the additional medical workload involved in supervision. This has led to a widespread grassroots backlash by the medical profession, often challenging their leaders who had supported this idea. As a consequence, professional bodies that were initially in favour are now expressing serious concerns and it seems likely that the roles and responsibilities of physician associates (and related occupations) will be curtailed. We review published literature and official documentation about this policy to understand the drivers of its development, its benefits, and risks.ConclusionsThe experience in the UK offers cautionary lessons for other European countries contemplating similar ideas. It underscores the importance of maintaining trust with those affected by change, undertaking a detailed systems analysis with attention to risks of unintended consequences, agreeing clear role definitions, providing adequate regulatory oversight, and the need to avoid damaging training of future doctors. This case study highlights the need for a carefully thought-out approach that considers both the potential benefits and pitfalls of integrating new roles like physician associates into a healthcare system. The failure to do so has created a new occupational group with unrealistic expectations and has further demoralised an already unhappy medical profession.

Association of clinical knowledge with patient care ownership among resident physicians: a nationwide cross-sectional study in Japan

PurposeBoth clinical knowledge and patient care ownership (PCO) are crucial to the provision of quality patient care and should be acquired during training. However, the association between these two concepts is under-examined. Here, we conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study to investigate the association between clinical knowledge and PCO among resident physicians in Japan.MethodsFrom January 17 to March 31, 2024, we conducted an anonymous, online, self-administered survey for a series of PCO research projects. The survey targeted medical residents who took the General Medicine In-Training Examination (GM-ITE). The mean of the Japanese version of the PCO Scale was used as outcome variable. The primary explanatory variable was total GM-ITE score, while the secondary explanatory variables were GM-ITE category scores in medical knowledge. We conducted multivariable linear regression analysis, controlling for postgraduate years, sex, number of assigned inpatients, weekly working hours, type of hospital, and size of hospital.ResultsWe included 1836 participants in our statistical analysis. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that after adjustment for possible confounders, GM-ITE total scores showed a significantly negative association with PCO in the highest score quartile (adjusted mean difference − 0.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.33 to -0.07, compared with the lowest score quartile). Additionally, after controlling for possible confounding factors, scores for symptomatology and clinical reasoning showed a dose-dependent negative association with PCO (adjusted mean difference − 0.17, 95% CI -0.30 to -0.03 for the highest score quartile compared with the lowest score quartile). No significant dose-dependent associations were found for the other categories.ConclusionsThese findings suggest the presence of potential challenges in the simultaneous fostering of clinical knowledge and PCO during residency training. This underscores the need for educators to actively engage in the reconsideration of current postgraduate training strategies, with the aim of effectively cultivating both clinical knowledge and PCO among medical residents.

Perception of Clinical Teachers on Workplace-based Assessments in Post-graduate Training in a Tertiary Healthcare Setting: A Qualitative Study

Perception of Clinical Teachers on Workplace-based Assessments in Post-graduate Training in a Tertiary Healthcare Setting: A Qualitative Study

Comparison of opportunities and perceptions towards neurosurgery between the public and private sector in Pakistan: a national survey of medical students and recent graduates.

Public and private medical institutes must adhere to the same standards of quality set by the Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC). However, studies have noted varied learning environments. The current study aims to assess opportunities and compare the differences in perceptions between the two sectors. An online survey was conducted among medical students, interns, and medical officers across Pakistan. Respondents were divided into two groups: private and public sector and the survey responses of the two groups were compared. Descriptive statistical analyses of responses were performed, and a chi-square test was used to obtain the p-values. 2,481 responses were collected (48.6% public vs 51.3% private sector). A higher proportion of public sector respondents reported neurosurgery within their curriculum (71.2% public, 58.9% private) ( p < 0.001), while a greater proportion of private sector respondents had less exposure to neurosurgery clerkships (58.5% public, 71.9% private). A higher proportion from the private sector reported that sufficient mentorship opportunities (38.3% private, 29.5% public) (p < 0.001) were provided by their medical college. More private sector respondents reported lack of work-life balance (39.5% public, 42.4% private), competitive work environment (55.9% public, 61.3% private) (p < 0.001) and financial burden (67.3% private, 60.8% public) (p < 0.001) as major barriers towards pursuing neurosurgery. Our study outlines key areas for improvement from the perspective of the learners themselves. These include increasing exposure to neurosurgery in medical colleges and affiliated hospitals and improving post-graduate training among all sectors. Addressing these concerns of the medical students, interns, recent graduates and medical officers can foster the pursuit of neurosurgery as a career in Pakistan. It is crucial to further investigate medical education in Pakistan and study differences in the public and private education sector globally.

Postgraduate medical education in obstetrics and gynecology in Switzerland in comparison to Germany and Austria: the results of an international survey.

There is frequent academic exchange between Switzerland, Germany and Austria, facilitated by the common language. Additionally, the postgraduate training curricula in obstetrics and gynecology show some similarities. We aimed to compare self-perceived level of ability, availability of simulation training and teaching and feedback culture among residents in obstetrics and gynecology in Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. The focus was on Switzerland to gain a better understanding of strengths and room for improvement. With a cross-sectional design, a web-based survey with 30 questions was distributed to obstetrics and gynecology residents in the three countries in August and September 2020. The primary outcome was the self-perception of skills in between-country comparisons of mid-training trainees, i.e., omitting trainees in their first year as well as very advanced trainees and specialists. The secondary outcomes were reported teaching, simulation training and feedback culture. German and Austrian responses were calculated together and compared with the Swiss replies. A total of 422 participants took part in the survey, 27.5% (n = 116) of whom were from Switzerland, corresponding to a questionnaire response rate of approximately 19%. 48% of Swiss trainees were in training years 2-5. 57% of Swiss participants felt confident in obstetric procedures and 69% in gynecological procedures, compared to 52% and 68% of non-Swiss participants (p = 0.005 and p = 0.176, respectively). Swiss participants felt significantly more confident in performing gynecological than obstetric procedures (p = 0.015). A total of 63% of the Swiss participants had obstetric simulation training, and 28% had gynecological simulation training compared to 37% and 17% in Germany and Austria, respectively (p < 0.001 and p = 0.007). 56% of Swiss participants reported "sufficient structured teaching", 43% reported a "good teaching culture", 47% of Swiss participants stated that they received regular feedback. The majority of trainees in Switzerland feel confident in a range of procedures and interventions. Simulation training is relatively widespread, although in particular surgical simulation training should be expanded. Clinical teaching and feedback culture should be strengthened. "Teach the teacher" courses should be encouraged to promote a sustainable feedback culture.

Saudi dental postgraduate education (2013–2023): demographic shifts and potential employment challenges

BackgroundDentistry is essential for oral health, focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases. In recent decades, Saudi Arabia has expanded its dental education system, adding new dental schools and postgraduate programs to meet the growing demand for professionals. This study provided a detailed analysis of the trends and demographic characteristics of dental postgraduate programs in Saudi Arabia between 2013 and 2023.MethodsThis retrospective study collected data on dental postgraduate programs from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) for the period from January 2013 to December 2023. Data were gathered on program types, gender, nationality, and geographic distribution. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze trends and distributions. Key variables included the number of postgraduate dental specialty programs, enrolled students, and training levels (board, fellowship). Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was obtained, and the data was processed using Microsoft Excel 2016.ResultsThe study revealed a total of 1,520 dental postgraduates, with a near-equal gender distribution (51.4% males and 48.6% females). Saudi nationals represented 94.8% of board residency graduates, while 2.4% were non-Saudis. Riyadh had the highest concentration of postgraduates, followed by Makkah. A significant increase in postgraduate enrollment was observed, peaking at 398 in 2023.ConclusionsThe findings indicate significant growth in Saudi dental postgraduate programs, with regional disparities and increasing numbers of graduates. However, this growth raises concerns about potential unemployment among dental postgraduates, as the number of available positions may not match the surge in graduates. Policymakers must evaluate the expanding programs and their potential impact on the Saudi dental workforce.

Current Status and Development of Economic Analysis in Corporate Law and Securities Regulations in Taiwan

Abstract The article presents a survey on the adoption and evolution of economic analysis of law in Taiwan’s legal studies. Tracing its earlier introduction into Taiwan during the 1990s, returning scholars with post-graduate training in the United States drove the movement of law and economics literature during the pioneer period before peaking in the mid-2000s. However, there seems to be a gradual decline subsequent since 2006. Despite reduced explicit publications, this article argues that economic concepts continue to influence legal research implicitly with certain core economic concepts often cited in research papers. The article provides an overview of academic literature, examines corporate and financial law fields, judicial incorporation of economic analysis, and university courses, concluding that economic analysis has become an integral component of Taiwan’s legal scholarship.

Development of competency framework for postgraduate anesthesia training in China: a Delphi study

BackgroundStandardized postgraduate medical education (PGME) in anesthesiology is not well-defined in China. Establishing a competency framework for postgraduate anesthesia training (PGAT) is essential for standardizing and enhancing the quality of training and patient care.ObjectivesThis study aimed to develop a competency framework for PGAT in China.MethodsThis study employed a multi-step approach, including a literature review, semi-structured interviews, to formulate a list of preliminary competencies. This initial list included seven roles, 26 enabling competencies, and 162 competency items. A modified Delphi method was utilized to achieve consensus involving three rounds. Experts were recruited from the Chinese Society of Anesthesiology (CSA) across various regions of the country. Consensus was determined using a 5-point Likert scale, with a mean score of ≥ 4 and a consensus rate of ≥ 80% serving as criteria for agreement.ResultsForty-seven experts accepted the invitation to participate, with 46 returning scores for round 1 (90.2% response rate) and 45 returning scores for rounds 2 and 3 (88.2% response rate). The final competency framework includes 140 competency items within 23 enabling competencies, categorized into seven roles: medical expert, communicator, collaborator, professional leader, health advocate, academic scholar, and specialized professional.ConclusionsThis study represents an initial step towards establishing a contemporary competency-based medical education and training (CBMET) program for PGAT in China.

Enhancing Clinical Confidence: Effects of Medical Screening and Differential Diagnosis Training for Low Back Pain.

Direct access to physical therapy (PT) requires PTs to act as primary care providers, making differential diagnosis a critical component of patient assessment. We investigated how participation in postgraduate training in differential diagnosis and medical screening influences PTs' confidence, self-efficacy, attitudes and beliefs about treating patients with low back pain (LBP). This prospective, two-arm study involved 49 PTs in an intervention group and 70 in a control group. The intervention included 40-hours of training on medical screening and differential diagnosis, focusing on red flags, clinical reasoning and referral pathways, while the control group received no intervention. Clinical confidence, self-efficacy, attitudes and beliefs were measured before, immediately after, and 6-months after training. Outcomes included the Primary Care Confidence Scale (PCCS), which assesses confidence in primary care practice, detection of serious pathology, and medical screening; the Physiotherapy Self-Efficacy (PSE) questionnaire, evaluating clinical self-efficacy in assessing and treating patients with LBP; and the Attitudes to Back Pain Scale for Musculoskeletal Practitioners (ABS-mp), which measures clinicians' attitudes and beliefs about LBP. The intervention group showed significant immediate improvements in PCCS scores (40.26 ± 5.23 to 45.24 ± 4.20, Cohen's d = 1.08, p < 0.001) and PSE scores (51.06 ± 6.46 to 54.65 ± 5.78, Cohen's d = 0.6, p < 0.001). At six-month, significant interaction effects were observed for PCCS (F = 17.49, Partial η² = 0.131, p < 0.001) and PSE scores (F = 5.87, Partial η² = 0.06, p < 0.05) and PSE scores (55.32 ± 6.09, p < 0.05), with the intervention group maintaining improvements while the control group showed no significant changes. No significant changes were observed in ABS-mp scores. This study highlights the positive impact of training in medical screening and differential diagnosis on reducing concerns and increasing clinical confidence and self-efficacy.

Perceptions of radiographers on reporting chest images at Public Hospitals in Malawi

IntroductionMalawi health facilities' major challenge is inequalities in access to reporting services due to a shortage of radiologists to report on radiographic images. Radiographers in the developed world acquire formal training in image reporting, however, there is no postgraduate training programme in Malawi. Thus, there is a need to explore radiographers' perceptions of reporting chest images in Malawi's hospitals. The study aims to explore radiographers’ perceptions of being tasked with the responsibility of reporting on chest images at public hospitals in Malawi. MethodThe study was conducted through a quantitative cross-sectional design. Data was collected using a self-developed questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed with the assistance of a statistician using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 29. The measurement scales and questions included quantitative 10-point Likert. Statistical analysis used the Mann -Whitney U test. ResultsSeventy-one (71) radiographers representing 81 % of the total population from five public hospitals participated in the study. The results from this study found that most radiographers (97.2 %) agreed that radiographers needed to report on chest images in the department. Findings demonstrated that the majority of radiographers (80.3 %) supported ongoing professional development, and of the radiographers (78.9 %) also agreed that reporting on chest images required post-graduate training. Overall confidence in reporting chest images was 81.6 % with no difference by years worked as a qualified radiographer (p=0.196) with the less than 10 years were as confident to report chest images as 10 years or more . Confidence in detecting abnormality on chest images (78.8 %) demonstrated no variation by years worked as qualified radiographer (p=0. 196) or level in department (junior of senior radiographer (p =0.323). Perceived impact of radiographer's involvement in chest image reporting to improved cost effective service delivery, work efficiently, and potential impact on patient care and safety. ConclusionBased on the findings of this study, there were positive perceptions among the majority of radiographers about the reporting of chest images in Malawi. It was recommended that policymakers change Malawi's health care policy, especially the radiological sector to allow radiographers to report on chest images.

Effectiveness of a Calgary-Cambridge model-based communication skills training for paediatric trainees in Sri Lanka: A nationwide pre-post intervention study using observed practices.

To evaluate the effectiveness of a Calgary-Cambridge model-based communication skills training program for postgraduate paediatric trainees in Sri Lanka. A pre-post intervention study was conducted among 133 paediatric trainees across Sri Lanka. The training program focused on relationship-building, information gathering, and information giving. Communication skills were assessed using an OSCE with simulated patients and a 12-item checklist. Paired t-tests were used to analyze score differences. Significant improvements were observed across all domains. Relationship-building scores increased from 13.5 to 23, information gathering from 12.6 to 20.2, and information giving from 13.3 to 24.8 (p < 0.01 for all). Relationship-building correlated positively with information gathering (r = 0.626) and giving (r = 0.600, p < 0.01). Trainees with prior communication training scored higher post-intervention (mean difference = 10.5, p = 0.019). No gender differences were observed. The Calgary-Cambridge model-based training program effectively enhanced communication skills among Sri Lankan paediatric trainees. Incorporating structured communication skills training into postgraduate curricula is essential, particularly in culturally diverse medical settings.

Developing and Implementing a Milestone System: Experience of the Taiwan Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology

&lt;p&gt;台灣婦產科醫學會於1961年成立，1987年度辦理第一屆專科醫師考試，建立四年專科訓練規範。由於畢業後一般醫學訓練亦可抵扣專科醫師訓練資格，加上住院醫師工時規範，恐影響住院醫師訓練，故自2017年底開始規劃里程碑制度。參考美國畢業後醫學教育評鑑委員會(Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, ACGME)及美國婦產科醫學會(americancollege of obstetricians and gynecologists, ACOG)聯合修訂、發表訓練內容，完成台灣婦產科醫學會住院醫師訓練里程碑初版，內容依照六大核心能力建立28項勝任能力5個層級。然而2023年透過線性回歸統計方式分析專科醫師考試成績與里程碑分數，發現兩者無顯著相關性。未來將透過即時分析，回饋各醫院，盼透過同儕比較，改善跨院際評核不一致現象，在執行面上，希望導入電子化表單，建立學生的學習歷程及分析。&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;The Taiwan Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology(TAOG)was established in 1961 and conducted its first board certification examination in 1987, formally establishing a structured 4-year training program for Taiwanese specialists.To provide postgraduate general medical training, which could be credited toward specialist training qualifications, and address challenges introduced by resident work-hour regulations, the TAOG subsequently developed a milestone-based evaluation system for residents. On the basis of training content collaboratively revised and published by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the TAOG produced the first version of its residency milestone framework in late 2017. This framework comprised6 core competencies segmented into 28 key competencies across five proficiency levels. Nevertheless, the results of a linear regression conducted in 2023 revealed no significant correlation between milestone scores and specialist examination results. In response, the TAOG will provide feedback to training hospitals,using peer comparisons to address discrepancies in interhospital evaluations. Additionally, the TAOG will implement electronic forms to streamline the documentation and analysis of residents’ learning progress.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

AdaEcoFusion: Adaptive Ecological Feature Fusion for Enhancing Postgraduate Training Work in the Context of “Ecological Civilization”

AdaEcoFusion: Adaptive Ecological Feature Fusion for Enhancing Postgraduate Training Work in the Context of “Ecological Civilization”

Optimizing Clinical Postgraduate Training: Perspectives of Postgraduate Alumni Regarding Their Residency Training at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda

Optimizing Clinical Postgraduate Training: Perspectives of Postgraduate Alumni Regarding Their Residency Training at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda

The Importance Of The Virtual Learning Environment In Uniandes Postgraduates

This study focused on analyzing the influence of virtual learning environments (VLE) in postgraduate programs, specifically in the fields of Law with a Major in Criminal Procedure Practice and Oral Litigation, and Citizen Security, at the Regional Autonomous University of the Andes. – UNIANDES, in Ecuador. The background revealed a growing interest in the integration of EVA in higher education. The objectives of the research focused on understanding the impact of VLEs on the quality of teaching and the learning process. Regarding the methodology, a descriptive and exploratory qualitative approach was used, observing the interaction of students on the Moodle platform. Synchronous and asynchronous workshops were carried out in the "Research Methodology" and "Graduation Work" modules. The results reflected a high level of success, with 96.15% of students passing their "Scientific Papers." These findings suggest the effectiveness of VLEs in postgraduate academic training. Additionally, variability between cohorts in a program will be observed, highlighting the need for future research on factors that influence student achievement. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of VLEs in graduate programs, supporting their contribution to effective teaching and learning. The results highlight the need to maintain high quality standards and the relevance of originality in academic works. These findings provide a basis for future research aimed at optimizing the implementation of VLE in postgraduate courses

Evaluation of dentists’ clinical practices and antibiotic use in managing endodontic emergencies in Karachi, Pakistan: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundEndodontic emergencies, often presented as acute pain or swelling, constitute a substantial challenge in dental practice. While effective management emphasizes prompt intervention, antibiotics are typically indicated only when systemic signs and symptoms are present. There is limited research exists on evaluating the knowledge and clinical approach of dental practitioners in managing endodontic emergencies from our region of the world. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate dentists' knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding clinical management and the prescription of antibiotics in endodontic emergency cases.Materials and methodsA web-based questionnaire was distributed to working dentists in secondary and tertiary care hospitals and clinics. Eligible participants included dental practitioners, postgraduate trainees, and consultants. The questionnaire included demographic information and inquiries about endodontic emergency treatment approaches, antibiotic prescribing habits, and awareness of guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed Stata software version 17 (StataCorp, College Station, Texas, USA), employing a χ2 test.ResultsOf the 527 dentists approached, 409 completed the survey (response rate: 77.6%). The majority of respondents were female (68%) and general dental practitioners (60.32%) with up to 5 years of experience (80.93%). Survey findings highlighted varied treatment approaches, favoring root canal treatment in multiple visits for cases of both irreversible pulpitis (73.59%) as well as with necrotic pulps/periapical lesions (79.95%). Similarly, 45.48% and 37.9% of the respondents favored pulpectomy combined with analgesics and antibiotics in managing irreversible pulpitis and acute apical periodontitis respectively. Moreover, antibiotics were frequently prescribed for acute apical abscess, with amoxicillin-clavulanate being the most common choice (83.6%). Most practitioners (69%) recommended a minimum of 5-day antibiotic course.ConclusionsThis study highlights Pakistani dentists' preferences in managing endodontic emergencies and prescribing antibiotics. Despite awareness of guidelines and the consequences of overuse, there's a tendency towards antibiotic overprescription, indicating a need for educational interventions to promote rational antibiotic use and mitigate antibiotic resistance.

Assessing availability and trainees’ perceptions of simulation and augmented reality in prosthodontics postgraduate education in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundSimulation-based learning (SBL) and augmented reality (AR) /virtual reality (VR) are increasingly adapted and investigated globally to aid traditional teaching methods of clinical skills in several fields of clinical dentistry. This cross-sectional study was, therefore, aimed to assess the availability of such technology to Prosthodontics postgraduate trainees in Pakistan, as well as their introspective views regarding the effectiveness of adapting to simulation-based learning methods.MethodTotal population sampling yielded a sample of 200 participants. Weblink of a pre-validated questionnaire designed using REDCap 0.001 version 11.0.3 software was disseminated to Prosthodontics postgraduate trainees across Pakistan with the ethical review board’s approval. Trainees were inquired regarding the availability of simulation-based learning and augmented/virtual reality technology in their centres and whether they receive regular training. The authors further explored trainees’ perceptions regarding the utility and effectiveness of adopting simulation-based training in the postgraduate education system. Frequencies of categorical responses were reported. Differences in data from all provinces of Pakistan were studied with Fisher’s exact.ResultsNinety completed responses were analysed with SPSS 23.0. A few trainees (n = 18, 20%) were familiar with Augmented Reality. No participant reported having Augmented Reality in their centre. Though simulation-based learning was available to 38 (42.2%) of participants across Pakistan, with differences in distribution among provinces (p = 0.001), only 24% of them received regular simulator training. Participants believe that SBL can reduce procedure-related risks (72.2%). Combining simulation-based learning with traditional teaching was favoured by 81.1% of participants.ConclusionA varied availability of SBL was observed across provinces, whereas AR was unavailable to Prosthodontics postgraduate trainees in Pakistan. Stakeholders and regulatory bodies should continually strive to incorporate technological advancements of simulation-based learning and Augmented/Virtual Reality in teaching strategies to improve Prosthodontics postgraduate students’ academic and clinical training quality.Clinical trial numberNot applicable due to the cross-sectional nature of the study.

Challenges of Relationship with Supervisor: Perspective of PhD Students

Background. The study investigates PhD student-supervisor relationship as a key element of postgraduate training of scientific workforce. Both sides of academic process should efficiently cooperate in order to successfully complete dissertation, develop research skills and professional competences in PhD students. Despite its great importance, in practice the relationship often faces various barriers significantly complicating scientific activity and affecting emotional component.Objective. To analyze the key factors determining the efficiency of PhD student-supervisor relationship.Materials and methods. The authors used the results of pilot studies conducted in 2024: “Challenges of relationship between PhD students (individual PhD students) and supervisors” (questionnaire survey, sample of 244 people) and “Neural network in science. For or against” (questionnaire survey, sample of 228 people).Results. The main barriers in relationship were identified: irregular communication, lack of clear expectations, disagreements in research approaches, overburdened supervisors and lack of research training among PhD students. These factors not only slow down the performance of scientific tasks, but also reduce the likelihood of a successful dissertation defense. Recommendations were given to improve PhD studentsupervisor relationship. Most attention is paid to the need for regular and constructive communication, a clear coordination of expectations and tasks, an individual approach and improvement of digital literacy among the participants of academic process. The authors emphasize that an integrated approach of eliminating barriers and effectively using modern technologies improves the quality of scientific personnel training and strengthens scientific potential.