Regular Routines Research Articles

Six Weeks to Wellness: The Role of Breathing Exercises Based on Motor Development Pattern in Improving Fitness and Quality of Life in Overweight Elderly Women.

Background: Being overweight is a major global health epidemic of the 20th and 21st centuries, which can affect the movement system function of older adult women. This study evaluated the effects of a breathing exercise based on motor development patterns on functional fitness and quality of life in overweight older adult women. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 community-dwelling women aged 65-75. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group, which completed a 6-week breathing exercise program (three supervised and three home-based sessions per week), or a control group, which maintained usual routines. Outcome measures included cardiovascular fitness, upper and lower body flexibility, muscle strength, dynamic balance, and quality of life, assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in cardiovascular fitness (p < .001, ES = 0.652), upper body flexibility (p < .001, ES = 0.652), lower body flexibility (p < .001, ES = 0.538), upper body strength (p < .001, ES = 0.538), lower body strength (p < .001, ES = 0.538), and dynamic balance (p < .001, ES = 0.475) compared to the control group. Quality of life also significantly improved in the intervention group (p < .001, ES = 0.475). Conclusion: Breathing exercises based on motor development patterns significantly enhance functional fitness and quality of life in overweight older adult women. Incorporating these exercises into regular physical activity routines may promote health and independence in older adults. Further research should explore long-term benefits and optimal exercise parameters for older adults.

Toothbrushing habits are associated with self perceived stress

Abstract Background Personal self-care is one of the most important factors in maintaining and improving oral health. Public health guidelines are recommending tooth brushing at least twice daily, once before bed time and at least on one occasion. On the other hand, our regular routines and caring for our own health is influenced by different factors including stress. We wanted to research how much does daily stress influencing tooth brushing habits. Methods We analyzed data from 2020 CINDI nationwide cross-sectional survey in Slovenia. Tooth brushing once a day or less was assessed as inadequate. Stress was assessed with question &amp;gt;&amp;gt;How often in the last 14 days have you felt tense, stressed or under a lot of pressure? &amp;lt;&amp;lt; Participants who chose often or always as an answer were assessed as persons under stress. Method of binary logistic regression was used for statistical analysis of association between tooth brushing frequency and self-perceived stress, modified for some socioeconomic factors. Results Prevalence of inadequate frequency of tooth brushing was present in 31,6 % of sample, 31,5% in participants who were not feeling tense and 31,8% in participants who often felt tense or stressed. At first it seemed stress is not associated with tooth brushing habits. We adjusted this association for gender, education level and age and this association became clearer. Participants who felt stress and/or under pressure had higher odds for poor tooth brushing habits, their odds ratio was 1,283 (p &amp;lt; 0,001; 95% CI 1,124; 1,464) when adjusted for aforementioned factors. Conclusions Oral health is integral part of general health. Association between oral and mental health is often overlooked even though psycho-social aspects are part of modern oral health definition. As personal self-care is cornerstone of maintaining and improving oral health, implementation of mental health aspects should be incorporated in public health advises and programmes for promoting oral health. Key messages • Self-perceived stress is associated with toothbrushing habits. • People who are under stress less regularly brush their teeth.

No Post-Activation Performance Enhancement Following a Single Set of Plyometric or Flywheel Exercises in National Team Rugby Players

Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) is a key objective following regular warm-up routines, especially in sports that rely heavily on sprinting speed and power. Rugby is a team sport characterized by a range of repeated high-intensity efforts, irrespective of positional roles or match demands. In this study, we examined and compared the effects of two different conditioning activities (CAs) on the power- and speed-related abilities of National Team rugby players. Thirteen male rugby union players sequentially performed countermovement jump (CMJ), 30 m sprint, and change-of-direction (COD) tests (pre-testing session) 5 min before executing either one set of six repetitions of 45 cm drop jumps or one set of six repetitions of flywheel eccentric-overload squats. In addition to the sport-specific tests, the muscle mechanical properties of the athletes were also assessed through the use of tensiomyography (TMG). At post-testing sessions conducted 5 and 10 min after the PAPE protocols, no significant changes were observed in any of the assessed variables, either in positions as backs or forwards. However, some meaningful variations were detected at the individual level when using the “true-changes” analysis. Despite some positive individual changes, it can be concluded that these specific protocols did not elicit the expected responses typically observed in other team-sport athletes. Practitioners are encouraged to implement more comprehensive (but not exhaustive) and tailored PAPE interventions prior to training sessions and competitions.

Relationship between changes in lifestyle and sleep duration due to the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in older adults: A cross-sectional study

Objectives In response to the spread of COVID-19, a state of emergency was declared on April 7, 2020. People were asked to stay at home unless necessary, and studies conducted in Japan and other countries have investigated the impact of these restrictions on the lives and health of older adults. While some studies have focused on sleep, a crucial aspect of the health of older adults, little is known about the relationship between sleep and various lifestyle changes experienced by older adults in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Herein, we aimed to investigate the factors associated with changes in sleep duration among older adults before and after the spread of COVID-19.Methods A random sample of 1,808 men and women aged 65-84 years who lived in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan was selected. A self-administered anonymous survey was mailed to the participants. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with decreased sleep duration compared to the COVID-19 pre-pandemic. Factors such as basic attributes, lifestyle changes compared with that during pre-pandemic period, stress levels, and involvement with the community were considered in the analysis.Results Of the 1,808 distributed surveys, 1,305 were returned (response rate: 72.2%). After excluding participants with missing data (n＝108), 1,197 responses were included in the final analysis (valid response rate: 66.2%). Among these, 155 participants (12.9%) reported decreased sleep duration. Decreased "social activities/connectedness" (odds ratio [OR]: 2.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54-4.22), reduced "average duration of exercise on exercise days" (OR: 2.69, 95% CI: 1.38-5.24), and self-reported "stress in the past month" (OR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.43-4.06) were significantly associated with decreased sleep duration.Conclusion The spread of COVID-19 was associated with decreased sleep duration among older adults. This decrease was linked to reduced social activity and participation, decreased exercise, and increased stress. To mitigate these effects, maintaining social participation and activities, scheduling regular and manageable exercise routines, and implementing effective stress management strategies while adhering to infection control practices are important.

Optimizing Beneficial Oral Hygiene Care: Transitioning from Manual Brushing and Utilizing Powered Toothbrushes to Improve Plaque Control and Prevent Gingival Inflammation

Objective: The main purpose of this research is to compare the effectiveness of powered and manual toothbrushes in controlling plaque and gingival inflammation. Background: Dental health and maintaining effective oral hygiene practices are crucial. The advantages and disadvantages of using manual or powered toothbrushes in removing gingivitis and plaque are discussed. Methodology: The paper provides an in-depth literature analysis and review of previous articles that investigated the effectiveness of manual and powered toothbrushes. Terms like gingivitis, host factors, manual dexterity, effectiveness of toothbrush types, and safety were analyzed from 2000 to 2024. Results: The research concludes that powered toothbrushes achieve a moderate reduction in plaque and gingival bleeding scores compared to manual toothbrushes, which require more brushing force. Individuals needed to maintain regular oral routines and brush for at least two minutes to achieve desired results. Conclusion: Both toothbrush types are vital for dental health. Powered brushes are considered safe and more effective in plaque and gingivitis removal, especially for individuals with dexterity issues. However, manual brushes remain a choice for many people globally. A person's preference plays a role in choosing between the two types. Update Dent. Coll. j: 2024; 14(2): 38-44

The impact of integrated health Qigong and dance exercise on cardiovascular function in middle-aged and elderly women.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of health Qigong on vascular elasticity, blood lipid levels, and cardiac function in middle-aged and elderly women. By comparing various indicators preintervention and postintervention, the research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of health Qigong in enhancing cardiovascular health within this demographic. A total of 40 middle-aged and elderly women were randomly assigned to 2 groups. The experimental group, consisting of 20 women, practiced health Qigong combined with Tibetan dance for 12 weeks, 3 times per week, with each session lasting 60 minutes. The control group, also consisting of 20 women, continued their regular routines without any exercise intervention. Cardiovascular function metrics were subsequently compared between the 2 groups. (1) Pulse wave velocity: in the experimental group, significant improvements were observed, particularly in the right ankle (P =.02 for left ankle, P =.00 for right ankle). The control group showed no significant differences (P =.08 for both ankles); (2) blood lipid levels: the experimental group demonstrated significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels (P =.00 for both), while the control group showed no significant changes (P =.59 for total cholesterol, P =.71 for triglycerides). There were significant differences in high-density lipoprotein levels between the experimental and control groups (P =.00 and .01, respectively); (3) cardiac function: significant improvements were noted in cardiac output (Teich) and stroke volume (Teich) in the experimental group (P =.00 for both), while the control group showed no significant differences (P =.71 for cardiac output, P =.06 for stroke volume). Health Qigong, integrated with dance exercise effectively enhances pulse wave velocity, blood lipid levels, and cardiac function in middle-aged and elderly women. These findings suggest that incorporating such exercises may contribute to the prevention or delay of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease in this population.

Impact of Digital Marketing Strategies on Marketing Performance: Role of Social Media Performance and E-commerce

E-commerce utilization has turned into a part of our regular routines. Ease of access and wide range of audience has made social media an effective medium to increase the marketing performance of firms. Due to its importance, the Fast moving consumer goods and retail businesses in Pakistan have employed social/ digital media managers to manage their social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, etc. The social media managers have designed digital marketing to increase their social media performance. This is shown by the number of followers, likes, and sharing by the target audience and prospective customers. The job and abilities of Web based business assumed a significant part in our research. At the culmination, 232 respondents’ outcomes were taken into contemplation for our data analysis by using SPSS and Hayes Process Macro. The direct relationships have significant values and all hypotheses are accepted. The research attempted to help brands, and social media managers devise better strategies to increase their market share and social media ratings. It also tried to contribute to literature for firms who are left far behind in employing the E-commerce and social media strategies framework to enhance their market performance and online transactions abilities. Additionally, our research examination adds to the current writing by offering bits of knowledge for firms that still can't seem to completely use internet business and entertainment procedures. By taking on these structures, organizations can further develop their market execution and online exchange abilities. Our review highlights the groundbreaking effect of advanced advertising on business development and client commitment.

Current trends in hair care in men

Hair care is essential for men for a variety of reasons, spanning from esthetics to overall health. A clean scalp reduces the risk of hair concerns in men such as seborrheic dermatitis and bacterial infections. Engaging in regular hair care routines can be a form of self-care, contributing to a sense of well-being and personal satisfaction. Proper hair care can also help reduce the risk of damage and hair loss. Avoiding harsh treatments and using appropriate products can preserve hair health and prevent excessive shedding. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports healthy hair growth. This review discusses hair cosmetics and its importance in men.

Effects of shuttle balance exercises on gait speed, postural control, and quality of life in older males: A randomized controlled trial.

Enhancing physical function and quality of life in older adults at higher risk of falls is challenging because of the lack of established interventions. This study examines the impact of a 6-week balance training program using the shuttle balance device on gait speed, postural control, and quality of life in older men. This single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted in a research laboratory. Thirty-two participants aged ≥60years were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (EG; n=16) or a control group (CG; n=14). The EG participated in a 6-week shuttle balance exercise program, while the CG maintained regular physical activity routines. The main outcome measures included gait speed (assessed via the timed up and go test), postural control (assessed via center of pressure data on a force plate), and quality of life (evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire). Post-intervention, the EG showed significant improvements compared with the CG (p<0.05). The 95% confidence intervals for the differences between groups were as follows: closed eyes (CE) mean velocity (-39.07, -0.13), CE sway area (-48.86, -0.18), SF-36 total score (9.01, 16.81), SF-36 physical functioning (7.00, 24.81), SF-36 physical role functioning (1.80, 27.57), SF-36 pain (15.01, 36.82), SF-36 general health state (7.48, 26.08), SF-36 vitality (5.60, 28.35), and SF-36 mental health (0.21, 21.12). A 6-week shuttle balance training program significantly improves postural control and quality of life in older males. These findings suggest the potential effectiveness of shuttle balance exercises in enhancing physical function and well-being in this population. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the long-term effects with larger sample sizes.

Formulation and Evaluation of Cinnamon and Walnut Foot Scrub

Foot care is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, as our feet endure daily stressors and are often neglected until problems arise. This study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a cinnamon and walnut foot scrub designed to address common foot issues such as dryness, cracked skin, and fungal infections. Cinnamon is incorporated for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, offering a soothing effect while stimulating circulation. Walnut shells serve as an effective natural exfoliant, gently removing dead skin cells and revealing smoother skin underneath. The scrub not only exfoliates but also hydrates, thanks to the nourishing properties of walnut oil, making it particularly beneficial for dry, cracked heels. The prepared formulation was evaluated for various parameters, including color, appearance, consistency, pH, and viscosity. By integrating this scrub into regular foot care routines, individuals can experience improved skin texture and overall foot health. The future of cinnamon walnut foot scrubs looks promising, with potential advancements in formulations tailored to various skin types and conditions, ensuring a natural and effective approach to foot care.

Postural Risks in Dental Practice: An Assessment of Musculoskeletal Health.

In recent years, Romania's stomatology private practice sector has seen substantial growth, with many dentists fully committing to building and expanding their own practices, often funded by their personal income. This study aimed to explore how various postures affect the muscle groups of dentists (380), particularly focusing on identifying positions that may jeopardize their musculoskeletal health. A group of dentists effectively participated in this study (10), adhering to their regular work routines while wearing wearable sensors on their backs to monitor posture and activity. The data gathered from these sensors were analyzed using the RULA (rapid upper-limb assessment) and REBA (rapid entire-body assessment) tools. The findings indicated that the head and shoulder movements during dental procedures involved considerable and repetitive angular shifts, which could strain the neck and back muscles and heighten the risk of musculoskeletal problems. Additionally, the standing postures adopted by the dentists were associated with an increased risk of postural issues and greater overall fatigue. Extended periods of trunk and head tilting were also identified as contributing factors to posture-related challenges.

Impact of parent-delivered traditional Thai massage on children with autism spectrum disorder and parenting stress: a randomized controlled trial

Objectives To evaluate the effects of parent-delivered traditional Thai massage (TTM) on children with autism and its potential influence on parenting stress. Methods Forty-eight children with autism (aged 10.32 ± 1.35 years) were enrolled from Haikou Special Education School (Haikou Province, China) and randomly assigned to either the TTM group or control group in a 1:1 ratio. Alongside their regular school routines, the TTM group underwent 16 sessions of 50-min TTM, twice weekly for 8 weeks. The control group continued their usual daily school routines. Intervention effects and parenting stress were measured using the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist and Parenting Stress Index, Fourth Edition Short Form. Results The TTM intervention had a significant positive impact on sociability (p = 0.001, partial ŋ2=0.168) and total scores (p = 0.009, partial ŋ2=0.103). Additionally, the TTM group had significantly reduced parental distress (p = 0.016, partial ŋ2=0.179), parent − child dysfunctional interaction scores (p = 0.008, partial ŋ2=0.206), and total scores (p = 0.001, partial ŋ2=0.179) post-intervention, with a significant rebound observed during the follow-up period. Conclusions Our findings indicate that parent-delivered TTM can effectively improve certain autism symptoms and reduce parenting stress in the short-term. Incorporating parent-delivered massage into family-based interventions offers a convenient, effective, and personalized treatment option for families with limited access to alternative treatment resources. Trial registration Clinical Trials Registry Identifier: ChiCTR2100051355, 2021-09-21

A Comparative Study on the Safety and Efficacy of Erbium Laser Therapy Versus Traditional Treatments in Managing Dentin Hypersensitivity: An Observational Study.

Background This study aimed to explore the potential efficacy and safety of laser therapy compared with traditional desensitizing treatments in the management of dentin hypersensitivity. Methodology A comprehensive observational study was conducted on 138 adult individuals aged 18-65 diagnosed with dentin hypersensitivity. Participants were allocated to either the laser therapy or traditional treatment group. The laser therapy group received treatment using the Fotona LightWalker® Erbium laser at 2,940 nm. The energy density was set at 20 J/cm² using continuous and contact modes, with the laser tip held perpendicularly to the irradiated site. Each session lasted five minutes, conducted bi-weekly for three months. Traditional treatment included the in-office application of 5% sodium fluoride varnish application once every 15 days for three months and the use of desensitizing toothpaste as part of regular oral hygiene routines. Follow-up assessments were conducted 6 and 12 months post-treatment to evaluate the longevity and stability of the treatment effects. Primary outcomes were assessed by dentin hypersensitivity reduction measured using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores and tactile hypersensitivity assessments. Results Laser therapy consistently surpassed traditional treatment in reducing dentin hypersensitivity, as reflected by the significantly lower VAS scores. Notably, at 3, 6, and 12 months, laser therapy demonstrated mean VAS scores of 2.5 (±1.5), 1.2 (±0.9), and 0.6 (±0.5), respectively, while the traditional treatment group exhibited higher scores (3.8 ± 1.2, 4.5 ± 1.0, and 4.0 ± 0.7, respectively). Statistical analysis revealed that these differences were highly significant (p < 0.001). Tactile hypersensitivity assessments echoed these findings, with laser therapy consistently maintaining lower scores (0.8 ± 0.7 at 6 months, 0.4 ± 0.3 at 12 months) compared to traditional treatment (3.5 ± 1.0 at 6 months, 4.0 ± 0.7 at 12 months) with statistical significance at all time points (p < 0.001). Conclusions Although this study lacks a randomized controlled design, the observed substantial reduction in VAS scores and tactile hypersensitivity assessments, along with the favorable safety profile of laser therapy, suggest its potential as an effective alternative for managing dentin hypersensitivity.

Analyzing the Impact of VMBR Training on Table Tennis Players’ Competence in Performing Alternate Counter and Forehand Drive Shots With Precision

Objectives. The study aimed to examine the impact of VMBR training on performing certain table tennis skills. Materials and methods. A total of 50 male state table tennis players, aged between 17 and 23, were selected at the Inspire Table-Tennis Academy in Secunderabad, Telangana. These players were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group, each comprising 25 participants. The experimental group underwent a 12-week VMBR training regimen three times a week, while the control group simply continued with their regular daily practice routines. Prior to the study and after the 12-week period, assessments were conducted using Pushpendra Purashwani’s table tennis skill tests, specifically the alternate counter test and the forehand drive techniques on target test, developed in 2011. Statistical analyses involved the application of dependent t-tests and descriptive statistics to evaluate the outcomes. Results. The experimental group’s results indicated that both the alternate counter test and the forehand drive on target test had a marked positive effect on players of table tennis at the 0.01 significance level. The study contributes to our understanding of psychological elements’ crucial role in influencing skill performance. Conclusions. The research delves into how various psychological factors affect performance. Previous studies have demonstrated that visualization and images can significantly enhance performance. Table tennis players can overcome mental hurdles through a systematic psychological technique called rehearsal. This process involves mentally replaying an event in a step-by-step manner. The phases of Visual Motor Behavior Rehearsal (VMBR) that lead to better performance include technique refinement, error analysis and correction, preparation for competition, and enhancement of psychological aspects. Future studies could investigate VMBR’s impact on specific table tennis skills or other sports in order to assist athletes in improving their psychological parameters and performance.

The Impact of Core Stability Exercises on Weight Loss and Body Composition among Obese Patients

Background: While the advantages of core stability exercises for overall fitness and injury prevention are well-established, further research is needed to understand their impact on weight reduction and body composition in the obese population. Hence, the present study aims to determine the effects of core stability exercises on weight loss, BMI and body composition measures among obese individuals. Methods: This pre-post intervention design involved adults aged 18-40 years with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² engaged in a supervised core stability exercise program for 12 weeks. The exercise sessions occurred thrice weekly, each lasting approximately 40 minutes. Results: After 12 weeks of intervention, a pre-post comparison was performed which revealed a significant mean difference (p&lt;0.05) in all the outcome measures. The value of BMI was reduced to 27.53±2.56, weight to 75.25±3.34, BF% to 30.14±1.56 and WHR to 0.85±0.56. Conclusion: The study found that 12-week core stability exercises significantly decreased weight, BMI, BF%, and WHR in an obese group. The planned and focused nature of the exercises resulted in improved body composition and weight loss. Thus, these exercises in regular fitness routines can be an effective strategy for reducing obesity and enhancing overall health. Keywords: Body Fat, Body Mass Index, Exercises, Obesity.

Physiological Effects of Zumba Exercise on Male College Students: An Intervention Study

Objectives. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Zumba exercise in improving physiological parameters among male students enrolled in an aerobic exercise program in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. Materials and methods. A one-group pre-post-test design was used, involving fifteen male students aged betweennineteen and twenty-four years old. The participants engaged in Zumba sessions supervised by health professionals three times per week for eight weeks. A series of measurements, including VO₂max, agility, and muscle strength, was evaluated at pretest and posttest stages using various equipment and methods. Results. Statistical analysis using SPSS version 26 software included normality testing with the Shapiro-Wilk test and a significance level set at p ≥ 0.05. A paired sample t-test was performed to compare pretest and posttest measurements of VO₂max, agility, and muscle strength. The results are presented as Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD). The findings reveal significant improvements in all parameters assessed post-intervention. VO₂max increased from 26.5 ± 4.5 to 30.8 ± 4.2 mL/kg/min, agility improved from 15.8 ± 1.2 to 14.6 ± 1.3 seconds, limb muscle strength increased from 394.2 ± 66.4 to 411.1 ± 67.5 joules, and arm muscle strength increased from 123.5 ± 17.1 to 138.2 ± 13.9 joules (all p ≤ 0.001). These results demonstrate the effectiveness of Zumba exercise in enhancing physical fitness among male college students. Conclusions. The findings suggest that Zumba exercise is an effective non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing cardiovascular fitness, agility, and muscular strength among male students. Integrating Zumba exercise into regular physical activity routines may contribute to stimulating an active lifestyle and improving overall health outcomes.

Assessment of Oral Health Problems: A Questionnaire-Based Study in a Clinic Setting

This research endeavors to explore and assess prevalent oral health problems within a clinic setting through a comprehensive questionnaire-based study. Oral health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, and this study aims to shed light on the various oral health issues affecting patients attending at Bloo Dental Solutions, at Rourkela. The research focuses on understanding patient awareness, dental hygiene practices, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to the prevalence of oral health problems. By utilizing a structured questionnaire, the study collects and analyzes data to provide valuable insights into the oral health status of clinic attendees. The study engaged a diverse group of participants, comprising 32 individuals, who voluntarily participated in the research during their clinic visits. The questionnaire was meticulously designed to cover a spectrum of topics, including dental hygiene practices, oral or dental problems, type of medicine taken, and lifestyle factors influencing oral health. The findings of the study reveal a 100% prevalence of oral health problems among the participants. Common issues identified include dental caries, irreversible pulpitis, and chronic gum gingivitis. This prevalence underscores the need for a more in-depth understanding of the factors contributing to these issues and the development of targeted interventions. Analysis of dental hygiene practices among participants indicates that 6.25% reported brushing their teeth twice daily, while 93.75% admitted brushing their teeth once in morning daily. The study highlights a correlation between consistent dental hygiene practices and reduced instances of oral health problems. However, the presence of a significant proportion with irregular habits suggests a need for targeted education on the importance of regular and thorough oral care routines. The study delves into the awareness levels of participants regarding common oral health problems and preventive measures. Surprisingly, 31.25% of participants demonstrated a lack of awareness regarding the importance of flossing and regular dental check-ups. This lack of awareness underscores the necessity for oral health education programs to bridge the knowledge gap and empower individuals to take proactive measures in maintaining their oral health. In discussing the results, the research advocates for the implementation of comprehensive oral health education and awareness campaigns within the clinic setting. In conclusion, this questionnaire-based study contributes valuable insights into the oral health status of clinic attendees. The results underscore the need for proactive measures, including targeted education programs and awareness campaigns, to address the identified gaps in knowledge and practices. By fostering a culture of preventive oral care, this research aims to pave the way for improved oral health outcomes within the clinic population.

Effects of 12-week Circuit Exercise Intervention on Blood Pressure, Vascular Function, and Inflammatory Cytokines in Obese Older Women with Sarcopenia.

This study investigates the effects of a 12-week circuit exercise program on blood pressure, vascular function, and inflammatory cytokines in older obese women with sarcopenia. Twenty-eight older obese women with sarcopenia (mean age: 78.2 3.7 years) were randomly divided into an exercise group (EG, n = 14) and a control group (CG, n = 14). The EG participated in a 12-week circuit exercise training regimen, conducted three times weekly, with each session lasting between 45 to 75 minutes (progressively increased over time). The CG was advised to maintain their regular daily routines throughout the intervention period. All dependent variables, including blood pressure, vascular function, and inflammation cytokines, were evaluated pre- and post-intervention. Positive changes were observed in the EG in body composition (body fat mass; p 0.001, body fat percentage; p 0.01, free-fat mass; p 0.01), blood pressure (heart rate; p 0.05, rate pressure product; p 0.01), vascular function (brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity; p 0.05, flow-mediated dilation; p 0.001), and inflammation cytokines (interleukin-6; p 0.05). In the CG, there was an increase in body fat mass (p 0.05) and body fat percentage (p 0.05), while no changes were observed in other variables. The 12-week circuit exercise program significantly reduced blood pressure, improved vascular function, and decreased inflammatory cytokines in obese older women with sarcopenia. However, individual variations in response highlight the need for personalized exercise regimens.

Factors affecting success and failure in higher education mathematics: Students' and teachers’ perspectives

BackgroundStudents from Bangladesh pursuing STEM education often encounter obstacles when tackling diverse mathematical problems within various educational settings. Frequently, they find themselves lacking the essential prerequisite knowledge and strong foundational skills necessary to engage with the teaching and learning resources utilized at the undergraduate level, resulting in a significant number of students needing to seek readmission annually. ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to explore the determinants of academic achievement among university undergraduates majoring in mathematics in Bangladesh. Employing a mixed-method research approach, the study combines quantitative and qualitative data analysis to examine the viewpoints of both students and educators concerning these factors. The authors primarily emphasize classifying the factors that impact the efficacy of mathematics pedagogical methods. MethodologyThe study is structured into three phases: i. An initial exploratory qualitative survey. ii. A quantitative triangulation survey. iii. Followed by explanatory semi-structured interviews. FindingsTo begin, the initial qualitative survey identified significant factors that contribute to students' achievements and setbacks in mathematics. Subsequently, the quantitative analysis verified both similarities and distinctions in the perspectives of students and educators. Furthermore, the correlation coefficient analysis revealed that male students frequently exhibit inconsistency and a lack of enthusiasm for studying, resulting in subpar performance. Conversely, female students frequently cited challenges like the difficulty of connecting mathematical theories to real-world applications, heavy course loads, and limited resources as reasons for their academic difficulties. Lastly, insights from interviews with students highlighted their acknowledgment of inadequate study practices, excessive reliance on memorization, suboptimal teaching methods, low motivation, and external distractions as key factors leading to their struggles. They also recognized the importance of consistent practice, a solid comprehension of concepts, regular study routines, and effective learning strategies for successful mathematics education. In contrast, educators emphasized the significance of students having clear concepts, natural aptitude, motivation, and a sense of curiosity as pivotal elements for successful learning in mathematics. ConclusionThis conclusion suggests a new beginning in the realm of local mathematics pedagogy, achieved by scrutinizing teacher-student feedback about the factors influencing success and failure, considering the diverse individual and contextual variables at play. To foster mutual trust and understanding between students and teachers, it may be beneficial to engage in open discussions and interactions.

Digital Close Reading for Lower Primary Students

AbstractHow can primary literacy teachers effectively identify, adapt, and incorporate developmentally appropriate technologies to support their students' reading development? This article reports results from a case study attempting to digitize a classroom literacy practice—close reading—for Year 2 students. It suggests that digital tools can effectively support close reading practices and students' literacy learning. Results also identify some unique affordances that digitization offers. The author provides suggestions and tips for practitioners interested in incorporating technology into their regular close reading routines.