Significant Differences In Scores Research Articles

Effects of Multicomponent Exercise on Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment.

To explore the effects of a group-based multicomponent exercise program on general cognitive functioning, depression, and social functioning in community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and whether the effects can be maintained. Fifty older adults with MCI were conveniently recruited from two communities in the study area and randomly assigned to the intervention group or control group. The intervention group received three sessions of 60-minute, multicomponent exercise per week for 3 months, plus MCI-related health education. The control group only received MCI-related health education. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Beijing Version (MoCA-BJ) were used to assess general cognitive function. The Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-30) were used to evaluate participants' social function and depression, respectively. Participants' exercise intensity was assessed using the Category Ratio Scale. After the 3-month intervention, there were significant improvements in general cognitive function (p = 0.046), attention (p = 0.009), delayed recall (p = 0.015), and social function (p = 0.011) in the intervention group compared with the control group. However, after 3-month postintervention follow up, no significant differences in MMSE, MoCA-BJ, GDS-30, and FAQ scores were noted between groups. The 3-month multicomponent exercise program improved general cognitive function and social functioning in community-dwelling older adults with MCI. However, there was no evidence that these benefits lasted for another 3 months after stopping the exercise program. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, 17(2), 65-79.].

Long-term polyethylene wear rates and clinical outcomes of oxidized zirconium femoral heads on highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty.

Oxidized zirconium (OxZi) and highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) were developed to minimize wear and risk of osteolysis in total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, retrieval studies have shown that scratched femoral heads may lead to runaway wear, and few reports of long-term results have been published. The purpose of this investigation is to report minimum ten-year wear rates and clinical outcomes of THA with OxZi femoral heads on HXLPE, and to compare them with a retrospective control group of cobalt chrome (CoCr) or ceramic heads on HXLPE. From 2003 to 2006, 108 THAs were performed on 96 patients using an OxZi head with a HXLPE liner with minimum ten-year follow-up. Harris Hip Scores (HHS) were collected preoperatively and at the most recent follow-up (mean 13.3 years). Linear and volumetric liner wear was measured on radiographs of 85 hips with a minimum ten-year follow-up (mean 14.5 years). This was compared to a retrospective control group of 45 THAs using ceramic or CoCr heads from October 1999 to February 2005, with a minimum of ten years' follow-up. Average HHS improved from 50.8 to 91.9 and 51.0 to 89.8 in the OxZi group and control group, respectively (p = 0.644), with no osteolysis in either group. Linear and volumetric wear rates in the OxZi group averaged 0.03 mm/year and 3.46 mm3/year, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in HHS scores, nor in linear or volumetric wear rate between the groups, and no revision for any indication. The radiological and clinical outcomes, and survivorship of THA with OxZi femoral heads and HXLPE liners, were excellent, and comparable to CoCr or ceramic heads at minimum ten-year follow-up. Wear rates are below what would be expected for development of osteolysis. OxZi-HXLPE is a durable bearing couple with excellent long-term outcomes.

Are There Any Advantages of the Low Opioid Anaesthesia and Non-Opioid Postoperative Analgesia Protocol: A Clinical Observational Study.

The methods of perioperative analgesia and pain control have changed. The principle of opioid-based analgesia has been modified to multimodal analgesia, followed by LOA (low opioid anaesthesia) and OFA (opioid-free anaesthesia). The aim was to describe the effects of LOA on nausea, vomiting, and pain control during general anaesthesia and postoperative period after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The protocol included the study group-40 patients received low-opioid anaesthesia (LOA), and the control group-40 patients received general anaesthesia with opioid analgesia (OA). The scheme of LOA was based on ketamine, lidocaine, magnesium sulfate, paracetamol, and metamizole. The OA was based on standard opioid (fentanyl) administration in induction and maintenance phase due to clinical observation. Postoperative analgesia included 1g of paracetamol and 1g of metamizol intravenously, with a 6-hour interval between doses. Significant differences in the pain score in the periods of 2-6, 6-12, and 12-24 hours after anaesthesia between the groups were noticed (p < 0.001). Moreover, a significant difference in the frequency of nausea (p = 0.005) and vomiting (p = 0.04) between groups were presented. Nausea occurred in 54.05% of OA group, while in the LOA group, it occurred in a 23.08%. Vomiting occurred in 32.43% of control group, while in the study group, it occurred in 12.82% of patients. The LOA protocol was more beneficial in reducing nausea and vomiting than the opioid-based method of anaesthesia. The LOA protocol of general anaesthesia during laparoscopic cholecystectomy and non-opioid postoperative analgesia have better outcomes in pain control, as well as nausea and vomiting, and improve postoperative patient comfort. The LOA protocol during anaesthesia and non-opioid postoperative analgesia should be considered in routine practice.

Subjective and objective comparative analysis of nasal ventilation function before and after nasal septoplasty

Objective:To investigate the changes of nasal ventilation before and after septoplasty by using NOSE scoring scale and nasal function examination, and to explore the correlation between subjective nasal obstruction and nasal function examination and its clinical application value. Methods:A total of 129 cases of nasal septum deviation from December 2021 to April 2023 in our hospital were selected for study. All patients underwent septoplasty. Nasal obstruction symptom evaluation（NOSE） was performed in all patients before surgery and 3 months after surgery. nasal minimal cross-sectional area（MCA） and nasal cavity volume（NCV） were recorded by nasal acoustic reflex, nasal resistance meter and nasal respiration apparatus, nasal resistance（NR）, distance between the nostril to minimum cross-sectional area,（the distance between the nostril to minimum cross-sectional area, MD）, nasal inspiratory volume（IV）, nasal expiratory volume（EV）, the nasal partitioning ratio, NPR includes objective indicators such as inspiratory volume difference ratio（NPRi） and expiratory volume difference ratio（NPRe）. Paired test was used to compare and analyze the changes of various indicators before and after surgery, and the difference（P<0.05） was statistically significant, and Pearson correlation linear analysis was used to analyze the correlation between subjective and objective indicators. Results:There were statistically significant differences in NOSE score, NCV, NR, MD, EV, IV, NPRe and NPRi of 129 patients before and after surgery（P<0.05）, while there was no statistically significant difference between MCA before and after surgery（P>0.05）. Preoperative NOSE score was correlated with NR, NCV, EV, IV, NPRe and NPRi（P<0.05）, but not with MD and MCA（P>0.05）. There was correlation between NOSE score and NR, MCA, NCV, EV, IV, NPRe and NPRi（P<0.05）, but no correlation between nose score and MD（P>0.05）. Conclusion:The subjective NOSE scale combined with nasal function test has certain clinical reference value in evaluating the surgical effect of patients with deviated nasal septum.

Did the COVID-19 pandemic affect levels of burnout, anxiety and depression among doctors and nurses in Bangladesh? A cross-sectional survey study

IntroductionCOVID-19 has caused severe disruption to clinical services in Bangladesh but the extent of this, and the impact on healthcare professionals is unclear. We aimed to assess the perceived levels...

Development of an Index for a Tooth to Receive a Full-Coverage Crown.

To develop a system for assessment of the status of a tooth to receive a full coverage crown and depict it on a measurable scale, and to validate its use by assessing examiner reproducibility. The index was developed based on the inputs from experts in the field with a consensus on factors (4 periodontal, 2 endodontic, and 4 prosthodontic), stages of severity (stage 1 to stage 4), assigned scores, and relative weights pertaining to varied clinical scenarios. Based on the selection of factor-stage combination, an overall tooth crownability index (TCI) score along with three-factor scores were computed. The validation study included clinical and radiological assessment of cases based on the index criteria by four independent examiners (periodontist, prosthodontist, endodontist, and general practitioner). Forty teeth were assessed. The distribution of repeated selection by the examiners was quite identical to the initial (kappa = 0.93). There was no statistically significant difference in the mean scores of examiners in TCI and factorial scores. An excellent agreement between the measurements was observed among the examiners (ICC =0.993; Crohnbach α = 0.993). A tooth crownability index has been developed for a tooth to receive a full coverage crown which has an excellent agreement and good reproducibility among the examiners. TCI will serve as a baseline tool in treatment plan decision-making based on the status of the teeth and in research for evaluating the efficacy of various treatment options available (standard criteria for outcome assessment).

SFDR Article 9: Is it all about impact?

We investigate more than 1,000 investment funds that are classified under Article 9 of the EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). Using the G7’s new typology of sustainable investments, we show that Article 9 funds pursue varying degrees of ambition: while 60 % follow an impact-oriented strategy, we identify 40 % that instead pursue a general Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. We do not find significant differences in ESG scores between ESG-related and impact-related funds. Yet, impact-related funds have higher SDG impact scores and higher management fees. Downgraded funds that changed SFDR status, however, tend to be less focused on impact.

체육수업에 참여하는 고등학생의 신체적 자기개념 인식간 상호관계 분석

This study aims to identify the main predictors of the impacts of the application of the Physical Activity Promotion System program on the physical self-concepts of high school students in a school physical education classroom setting. The study population included 175 students from J. High School located in C. Independent samples t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze the impacts of gender and physical fitness level on physical self-concept scores of high school students, and the correspondence analysis method was used to identify the relationships among the sub-factors of the students’ perceptions of the choices and decisions of their physical self-concepts.&#x0D; The results of the study are as follows.&#x0D; First, there were no significant differences in physical self-concept scores between gender and fitness level. Second, although the perceptions of physical self-concept change according to gender and physical fitness level were generally positive, there were some areas (cardio-respiratory endurance, flexibility, strength and muscular endurance, physical activity, overall body, appearance, and body fat) that would require customized guidance activities to improve physical fitness.

Impact of Principals' Informatization Leadership Practices to Advancement in a China Vocational School

This study aims to explore teachers’ evaluations of principals’ information leadership and the relationship between evaluation factors. Through questionnaires and face-to-face interviews with teacher respondents, their views and opinions on principals’ information-based leadership practices were collected. First, principals’ information leadership practices were assessed through the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards for Educational Leaders, including Equity and Citizenship Advocate, Visionary Planner, Empowering Leader, Systems Designer, and Connected Learning or other aspects. Secondly, statistical analysis methods were used to compare whether there were significant differences in the average scores of different teacher respondents' evaluation of principals' information leadership, and to explore the relationship between evaluation factors. The results show that there are certain differences in teachers' evaluations of principals' information leadership, with factors such as leadership style and vision, IT investment and resource allocation, IT governance practices and policies receiving focus. In addition, the study found that there is a certain correlation between teachers' evaluation of their supervisor's information leadership practices and influencing factors. Finally, based on the research results, recommendations for management development plans are put forward to further improve the school's informatization level and leadership. This study can provide useful reference for school administrators and promote the development and practice of information leadership.

Analyzing the Nutritional Awareness, Dietary Practices, Attitudes, and Performance of U-17 Football Players in Ethiopia

Background. Adequate nutrition knowledge is crucial for developing proper eating habits, especially among athletes, as it has a significant impact on sports performance. This underscores the consensus in sports nutrition education among professionals working with athletes. Study purpose. The study aimed to assess the nutritional knowledge, attitudes, and dietary practices of under-17 football club players in Ethiopia. Materials and methods. A descriptive survey research method was used, and standardized questionnaires were randomly distributed to 26 footballers to assess participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and dietary practices regarding nutrition. Data were analyzed using the t-test, Pearson coefficient, and one-way ANOVA (p &lt;0.05). Reliability analysis showed a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.83 for the scales measuring attitudes towards eating habits and nutrition knowledge (0.79 and 0.78, respectively). Results. No statistically significant differences (p &gt;0.5) were observed in the data related to eating habits, age, or nutritional understanding. Significant variations in educational backgrounds were noted (p &lt;0.05). Although gender and source were not recognized as correlates of nutritional knowledge, but age and education were. Conclusions. In summary, the study revealed no significant differences (p &gt; 0.05) in nutrition knowledge scores for age, education, and source of information. However, a significant difference (p&lt;0.05) was found between male and female athletes. Gender correlated with dietary habits, while age, education, and source of information did not. The key factor is to encourage ongoing future vision within sports organizations, nutritionists, and educational institutions to continuously refine and enhance nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and practice programs for U-17 players. It is also important to ensure sustainable relevance and effectiveness in the evolving landscape of sports and nutrition.

Klinik Anatomi Eğitimi Verilen Anesteziyoloji ve Reanimasyon Anabilim Dalı Araştırma Görevlilerinin Eğitim Hakkındaki Görüşlerinin Değerlendirilmesi: Bir Üniversite Örneği

Introduction: Anatomy is considered one of the cornerstones of medical education. In-depth understanding of anatomy is essential, especially for safe clinical practice in surgical disciplines. This study aimed to evaluate the feedback of research assistants in the department of anesthesiology and reanimation, who received clinical anatomy education.&#x0D; Methods: Clinical anatomy education was provided for research assistants at different levels in the department of anesthesiology and reanimation, with two hours per week, and the education was completed within one month. The 5-point Likert scale questionnaire consisting of 18 questions was administered to research assistants to gather their opinions about education. Participants were asked to rate the questions on a scale from 1 to 5. Additionally, data such as age, gender, duration of clinical experience, experience with neuroaxial or peripheral nerve blocks, and participation in regional anesthesia courses were recorded.&#x0D; Results: A total of 40 participants, including 15 (37.5%) males and 25 (62.5%) females, with an average age of 29.67 ± 3.94 years, were included in the study. Nearly all participants in our study reported that integrated clinical anatomy education is necessary. The majority mentioned that anatomy education would contribute to airway management and regional anesthesia applications. The participation rate in regional anesthesia courses before education was 17.5%. There was no significant difference in average questionnaire scores between those who participated in regional anesthesia courses and those who did not (p=0.06).&#x0D; Conclusion: In the process of anesthesiology and reanimation specialization training, we believe that incorporating clinical anatomy education would enhance the quality of specialization education, thereby improving safety and effectiveness in clinical applications.

Psychometrics of the breastfeeding self-efficacy scale and short form: a systematic review

BackgroundThe Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale and its short-form were developed in Canada and have been used internationally among numerous maternal populations. However, the psychometric properties of the scales have not been reviewed to confirm their appropriateness in measuring breastfeeding self-efficacy in culturally diverse populations. The purpose of this research was to critically appraise and synthesize the psychometric properties of the scales via systematic review.MethodsThe Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. Three databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO) were searched from 1999 (original publication of the Scale) until April 27, 2022. The search was updated on April 1, 2023. Studies that assessed the psychometric properties of the BSES or BSES-SF were included. Two researchers independently extracted data and completed the quality appraisals.ResultsForty-one studies evaluated the psychometrics of the BSES (n = 5 studies) or BSES-SF (n = 36 studies) among demographically or culturally diverse populations. All versions of the instrument demonstrated good reliability, with Cronbach's alphas ranging from .72 to .97. Construct validity was supported by statistically significant differences in mean scores among women with and without previous breastfeeding experience and by correlations between the scales and theoretically related constructs. Predictive validity was demonstrated by statistically significant lower scores among women who ultimately discontinued breastfeeding compared to those who did not.ConclusionThe BSES and BSES-SF appear to be valid and reliable measures of breastfeeding self-efficacy that may be used globally to (1) assess women who may be at risk of negative breastfeeding outcomes (e.g., initiation, duration and exclusivity), (2) individualize breastfeeding support, and (3) evaluate the effectiveness of breastfeeding interventions.

Sleep and discrimination among undergraduate students: A descriptive study

ABSTRACT Although racial and ethnic health disparities are recognized social and health issues, few studies have explored associations between sleep problems and everyday discrimination. Additionally, to date, there is little, if any, social work literature on associations of sleep and discrimination. Thus, this study explored sleep and discrimination among behavioral and health sciences students at a southeastern, public university. Students (N = 519) completed the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Sleep Scale and Everyday Discrimination Scale. A bivariate correlation analysis revealed a moderate relationship between experiences of discrimination and sleep as reported in the MOS-Sleep Problems Index II (r = .27, p < .001). Further, social work majors (n = 126) had a statistically significant difference in mean scores for sleep outcomes (M = 50.06, SD = 1.62) compared to other College of Behavioral and Health Sciences (CBHS) majors. More than 25% of Social Work majors reported MOS Sleep Problems Index II scores >60 and in general had more sleep issues than other CBHS majors. This result indicated that social worker majors had more reported sleep problems. The present study highlighted a need to address sleep as an integral part of professional self-care. Adequate sleep can contribute to health, academic performance, and effective social work practice.

Efficacy of fresh frozen plasma transfusion in decompensated cirrhosis patients with coagulopathy admitted to ICU: a retrospective cohort study from MIMIC-IV database

We aimed to explore the association between FFP transfusion and outcomes of DC patients with significant coagulopathy. A total of 693 DC patients with significant coagulopathy were analyzed with 233 patients per group after propensity score matching (PSM). Patients who received FFP transfusion were matched with those receiving conventional therapy via PSM. Regression analysis showed FFP transfusion had no benefit in 30-day (HR: 1.08, 95% CI 0.83–1.4), 90-day (HR: 1.03, 95% CI 0.80–1.31) and in-hospital(HR: 1.30, 95% CI 0.90–1.89) mortality, associated with increased risk of liver failure (OR: 3.00, 95% CI 1.78–5.07), kidney failure (OR: 1.90, 95% CI 1.13–3.18), coagulation failure (OR: 2.55, 95% CI 1.52–4.27), respiratory failure (OR: 1.76, 95% CI 1.15–2.69), and circulatory failure (OR: 2.15, 95% CI 1.27–3.64), and even associated with prolonged the LOS ICU (β: 2.61, 95% CI 1.59–3.62) and LOS hospital (β: 6.59, 95% CI 2.62–10.57). In sensitivity analysis, multivariate analysis (HR: 1.09, 95%CI 0.86, 1.38), IPTW (HR: 1.11, 95%CI 0.95–1.29) and CAPS (HR: 1.09, 95% CI 0.86–1.38) showed FFP transfusion had no beneficial effect on the 30-day mortality. Smooth curve fitting demonstrated the risk of liver failure, kidney failure and circulatory failure increased by 3%, 2% and 2% respectively, for each 1 ml/kg increase in FFP transfusion. We found there was no significant difference of CLIF-SOFA and MELD score between the two group on day 0, 3, 7, 14. Compared with the conventional group, INR, APTT, and TBIL in the FFP transfusion group significantly increased, while PaO2/FiO2 significantly decreased within 14 days. In conclusion, FFP transfusion had no beneficial effect on the 30-day, 90-day, in-hospital mortality, was associated with prolonged the LOS ICU and LOS hospital, and the increased risk of liver failure, kidney failure, coagulation failure, respiratory failure and circulatory failure events. However, large, multi-center, randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies and external validation are still needed to verify the efficacy of FFP transfusion in the future.

Sociodemographic and Clinical Profile of Suicide Attempters: A Tertiary Care Center Study

Background: Suicide is a primary health concern worldwide, and has a negative impact on the individual, family, and society. The literature suggests that females are more prone to attempt suicide and have more suicidal inclinations; however, males are more serious suicide attempters compared to females. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the sociodemographic and clinical profile of patients admitted to acute care with the current suicide attempt. Materials and Methods: One hundred consecutive patients, aged between 18 and 60 years, who were medically stable and presented to the emergency or medical wards at the hospital with suicidal attempt, were included in this study. Beck’s Suicide Intent Scale (SIS), Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, Beck Hopelessness Scale, and Beck Depression Inventory–II were administered to assess the current suicidal intent and ideation, depression, and hopelessness. Results: The diagnostic breakup was – 69% mood (affective) disorders, 21% adjustment disorders, 4% schizophrenia, and 6% other disorders. Most suicide attempters were female (66% vs. 34%) and belonged to a younger age group (28.30 ± 10.08 years vs. 34.73 ± 13.97 years) compared to males (P &lt; 0.05). Although both genders displayed high suicide intent, a significant difference in the SIS score was noted between females and males (36.53 ± 7.68 vs. 41.47 ± 8.82; P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: There is a difference in the clinical and demographic profile among male and female suicide attempters. Hence, appropriate interventions can be devised to prevent the future suicide attempts as per the demographic and clinical characteristics specific to the study population.

Robot therapy aids mental health in patients with hematological malignancy during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in a protective isolation unit

Patients with hematological malignancy experience physical and psychological pain, such as a sense of isolation and confinement due to intensive chemotherapy in a protective isolation unit (PIU). We examined whether the intervention of a robotic puppy, aibo (manufactured by Sony), could improve patients' mental health as an alternative therapy for pet therapy, which is not feasible in PIU. This study included 21 patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) (n = 16) or autologous HSCT (n = 5). The patients were randomly divided into the aibo and control groups. Psychological effects were regularly assessed by measuring the levels of salivary stress hormone chromogranin A (CgA), serum oxytocin, and serum cortisol and the quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (QIDS-SR) scores. The aibo group demonstrated a significant decrease in CgA level, while the control group showed the opposite trend. In addition, changes in serum oxytocin and cortisol levels indicated that aibo helped reduce stress. There was no significant difference in the QIDS-SR scores between the two groups; however, the psychomotor activity in the aibo group improved significantly. These findings suggest that aibo intervention during a stay in a PIU can improve the mental health of patients with hematological malignancies who have undergone HSCT.

Novel 532-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser for the treatment of melasma and rejuvenation: a prospective, randomized controlled comparison with 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser.

Melasma is a common pigmentary and photoaging disorder. Although various treatments, including 1,064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (QS-Nd: YAG) laser toning, are available for melasma, results are often unsatisfactory. We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser (shortwave toning) in patients with melasma and facial rejuvenation. Fifty-two patients were recruited to receive either 1,064-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser or 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser every 2 weeks for 8 sessions and a 2-month follow-up visit in a randomized controlled double-blinded study. The primary outcome measure was the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score. Dermoscope and high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) were used to assess the improvement of melasma and photoaging. 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser achieved significantly higher improvement in the MASI score (P = 0.000). The Dermoscopic melasma score (DMS) displayed significant change and confirmed the improvement. HFUS showed a significant decrease in the thickness of the subepidermal low-echogenic band (SLEB) and increases in dermal thickness and dermal density in both groups (P = 0.000 for all). The rate of very satisfied responses was significantly higher in the 532-nm laser group (P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the visual analog scale pain assessment score (P = 0.248) and recurrence rate (P = 0.734) between the two groups. 532-nm QS-Nd: YAG laser (shortwave toning) proved to be an effective and safe treatment for melasma and rejuvenation. Shortwave toning was significantly better for pigmentation clearance, while 1,064-nm laser showed better improvement in skin rejuvenation.

Application of the combination of CBL teaching method and SEGUE framework to improve the doctor-patient communication skills of resident physicians in otolaryngology department

BackgroundTo explore the feasibility and effectiveness of applying CBL teaching method and SEGUE Framework in the doctor-patient communication skills of resident physicians in the department of otolaryngology.MethodsThis is an observational study to compare the score changes in doctor-patient communication skills of 120 resident physicians, before and after using CBL combined SEGUE Framework teaching method. The effects of gender, age, grade, educational background and marital status on SEGUE score were analyzed.ResultsThrough the combined application of CBL teaching method and SEGUE Framework, the SEGUE score of 120 resident physicians was significantly improved. There was no significant difference in SEGUE score among different sex and marital status of resident physicians. SEGUE score is positively correlated with age; Different grades and educational backgrounds have significant effects on SEGUE score.ConclusionThe combination of CBL teaching method and SEGUE Framework is feasible and effective in the education program of doctor-patient communication skills for resident physicians in the department of otolaryngology, and worthy of popularization and application in other medical specialties.

Evaluating the influence of dental aesthetics on psychosocial well-being and self-esteem among students of the University of Novi Sad, Serbia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundA person’s smile has been identified as one of the first observed facial characteristics. Even minor deviations from societal beauty standards, especially among younger individuals, can have a negative effect on their self-esteem. The aim of this research is to evaluate the self-perceived psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics and self-esteem among respondents and their association, as well as to determine the main factors contributing to dissatisfaction with dental appearance.MethodsThis research was conducted as a cross-sectional study that surveyed students of the University of Novi Sad. Other Universities and private faculties were excluded from participation. Data collection used standardized questionnaires measuring the Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics (PIDAQ) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). Questionnaire (an online GoogleForms) was sent to the students via official Facebook groups of the faculties, student’s e-mails and Instagram profiles. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Students T-test, ANOVA, multiple linear regression analysis and Spearman coefficient. To test internal consistency, Cronbach’s alpha(α) was calculated for the questionnaire as a whole (0,761) and each used questionnaire (PIDAQ – 0.766; RSES – 0.765). Cronbach’s alpha(α) was also calculated for each domain from PIDAQ (DSC-0.946; SI-0.882; PI–0.953; AC-0.916).ResultsThe study involved 410 participants, predominantly female (80%), aged between 21 and 23 (45.4%), primarily in ther first academic year (21.5%), and with a grade point average between 8.01 and 9.00 (42.4%). Data analysis has shown a statistically significant difference in the total PIDAQ score and SI subdomain in relation to the academic year (total PIDAQ p = 0.025; SI p = 0.000). In terms of self-esteem, results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that the academic year (95%CI: 0.410–1.837; p = 0.002) and the average point grade (95%CI: -0.025-1.600; p = 0.047) were significant predictors of greater self-esteem. The Spearman coefficient value (r=-0.316, p < 0.001) confirmed a statistically significant negative correlation between PIDAQ and self-esteem. Only 34% of respondents expressed satisfaction with their teeth. Dissatisfaction about the smile was primarily attributed to the arrangement and positioning of their teeth (32.2%). Financial constraints were identified as the main barrier for seeking interventions to improve smile satisfaction (39.5%).ConclusionStudents experiencing a greater psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics tended to exhibit lower self-esteem.

Virtual preoperative planning and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates in treatment of acetabular posterior wall fractures

To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of virtual preoperative planning and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates for the treatment of posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum. A retrospective analysis of 29 patients with posterior acetabular wall fractures treated between August 2017 and March 2021 were divided into 2 groups based on whether to use preoperative virtual planning and 3D printed template. In 3D-printing group, there were 14 patients, including 10 males and 4 females； aged from 21 to 53 years old；CT-based virtual surgical planning was done using Mimics and 3-Matic software and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates were adopted. In conventional group, there were 15 patients, including 10 males and 5 females；aged from 19 to 55 years old；conventional method of intra-operative contouring to adapt the plate to the fracture region was adopted. Blood loss, surgical time, radiographic quality of reduction, and hip function were compared between groups. The difference in operation time and intraoperative blood loss was significant（P<0.05）. Twenty-three patients were followed up from 12 to 30 months, and the fractures in both groups healed with a healing time of 3 to 6 months. At the last follow-up, the Merle d'Aubign-Postel score of the 3D printed group was lower than that of the conventional group（P<0.05）, with no significant differences in walking ability, hip mobility and total score（P>0.05）. In 3D printing group, 6 cases were excellent, 5 cases were good, 3 cases were fair；in conventional group, 5 cases were excellent, 5 cases were good, 4 cases were fair, 1 case was worse；no significant difference between two groups（P>0.05）. Virtual preoperative planning and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates can reduce operative time and the blood loss of surgery, improve the quality of reduction. This method is efficient, accurate and reliable to treat acetabular posterior wall fractures.