Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease affecting the central nervous system. Pediatric-onset MS, diagnosed in individuals under 18 years of age, is increasingly recognized as a distinct entity, with an annual incidence of 0.13-0.6 cases per 100,000 children. Diagnosis is challenging due to symptom overlap with other neurological conditions. This case series presents two pediatric MS cases detailing symptoms, diagnostic findings, treatments, and outcomes. Case Report: Case 1 involved a previously healthy 17-year-old male with progressive left-sided weakness and difficulty walking. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed multiple enhancing periventricular lesions, with cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealing 12 oligoclonal bands and human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) positivity. Treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone and physiotherapy led to significant improvement. Case 2 featured a 14-year-old girl with vomiting and double vision, exhibiting left internuclear ophthalmoplegia. MRI revealed juxtacortical, periventricular, and brainstem demyelinating lesions, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed oligoclonal bands, leading to a diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS, managed successfully with intravenous steroids. Conclusion: Pediatric-onset MS necessitates early recognition and comprehensive management. Prompt initiation of disease-modifying therapies and psychosocial support enhances quality of life and mitigates disease progression. Further research is essential to elucidate its etiology and risk factors.
This is a Letter to the Editor and does not have an abstract. Please download the PDF or view the article in HTML.
Introduction: Bone and lymph nodes are the usual sites of metastases for prostate cancer. Its ocular cavity metastases are still quite uncommon. Case Report: A patient with periorbital pain and right eye proptosis presented acutely, accompanied by weight loss and generalized pain. His past medical history showed signs consistent with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Nevertheless, a rectal examination revealed irregular prostate tissue, and the level of prostate-specific antigen was significantly elevated and was 1990 ng/dl. Hence, a metastatic prostate cancer was preliminary suspected. Hence, a metastatic cancer prostate was preliminary suspected. The biopsy subsequently confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic adenocarcinoma. The orbital metastases’ manifestations in prostate cancer closely resembles that of other orbital metastases. Diagnosis is straightforward in the presence of a history of a primary tumor. Proptosis, diplopia, reduced vision, and restricted eye movements are some of the symptoms that are now present. Conclusion: This case study addresses the occurrence, clinical manifestation, and investigation of common malignancies like prostatic carcinoma with an unusual presentation.
Introduction: Research projects are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI), genetic, and precision medicine. The 9th Annual Al Ain Research Conference is one of the largest gatherings in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), providing a platform for researchers across various specialties and career levels to present their work. Held on May 9, 2025, at Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohammed Medical City (STMC) in Al Ain, the conference received 182 abstracts, which were screened for oral and poster presentations based on specific selection criteria. The submissions represented a range of specialties, including internal medicine, endocrinology, cardiology, neurology, nephrology, public health, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, oncology, nursing, nutrition, pharmacy, and physiotherapy. This proceeding aims to disseminate the conference abstracts to the research community. Methods: The abstracts were peer-reviewed by the Scientific Committee of the 9th Annual Al Ain Research Conference. Each submitted abstract followed a structured format, including introduction, methods, results, discussion, and conclusion. Authors consented to the publication of their abstracts, which are organized alphabetically by title. Results: Based on predefined selection criteria, 18 abstracts (10.2%) were selected for oral presentations across three sessions, while the remaining 158 abstracts (89.7%) were designated for digital poster presentations. Notably, several abstracts focused on the use of AI, and an increased participation from Emirati researchers was observed. Of the 176 accepted abstracts, 108 (61.3%) are included in this proceedings volume with author consent, comprising seven (6.5%) oral and 101 (93.5%) poster presentations. The remaining 69 abstracts were excluded: 24 had been previously published, and 45 were not included due to the absence of author consent for publication. Conclusion: The 9th Annual Al Ain Research Conference showcased a diverse range of high-quality research across clinical and allied health fields, with notable emphasis on AI and increased participation from Emirati researchers. Of the 176 accepted abstracts, only 108 were included in the proceedings due to prior publication or lack of author consent, highlighting the need for clearer submission guidelines. Future conferences should enhance support for emerging research areas, improve compliance with publication requirements, and foster structured mentorship to sustain the growth of national research contributions.
Introduction: Acute uncomplicated cystitis (AUC) is common in primary healthcare settings often treated with antibiotics. However, inappropriate antibiotic use contributes to antimicrobial resistance, costs, and adverse effects. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs aim to optimize antibiotic use. This study evaluates the impact of AMS compliance on antimicrobial prescription, resistance, and cost, particularly focusing on fluoroquinolone overuse in suspected uncomplicated cystitis patients attending primary health care centers (PHCCs) in Emirates Health Services (EHS). Methods: A cross-sectional study analyzed data from 2043 adult patients (≥18 years) attending AMS-compliant primary health care centers for suspected uncomplicated cystitis between 2019–2022. Data included demographics, diagnoses, prescribed antibiotics, and urine culture results. AMS compliance, antibiotic prescription appropriateness, and trends in antimicrobial resistance and cost were assessed. Results: AMS compliance increased significantly from 55.2% in 2019 to 64.6% in 2022 (p<0.001) and was associated with reduced inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions and increased urine testing rates. Fluoroquinolones were prescribed in 34.2% of cases overall, with Ciprofloxacin being the most common, prescribing peaked in 2021 (38.6%) before declining in 2022 (29.7%). AMS-compliant prescriptions had a significantly lower mean cost compared to non-compliant prescriptions across the study period, with the largest differences observed in 2019 (p=0.002) and 2022 (p<0.001). Escherichia coli (71.5%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (12.5%) were the predominant urine isolates. Antimicrobial resistance trends were mixed: E. coli showed decreased resistance to fluoroquinolones and several other agents, while K. pneumoniae showed increasing resistance to fluoroquinolones and co-trimoxazole. Discussion: AMS program adherence in PHCCs significantly reduced inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions and fluoroquinolone use for suspected uncomplicated cystitis which led to lower antibiotic costs especially in 2019 and 2022. Observed antimicrobial resistance trends varied with decreases for some antibiotics but increases for others which emphasized the need for continuous AMS implementation and surveillance. Conclusion: Compliance with AMS programs in suspected uncomplicated cystitis cases at PHCCs led to reduced inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions, decreased fluoroquinolone use, and lowered antibiotic costs. Additionally, AMS compliance influenced antimicrobial resistance trends, emphasizing the importance of AMS implementation to mitigate antimicrobial resistance.
Introduction: Optic disc coloboma is a rare congenital anomaly that can occur as a sporadic event or in association with chromosomal or systemic abnormalities. Cleft lip and cleft palate may arise independently or as part of a syndrome, yet their association with optic disc coloboma is extremely rare. Case Report: A premature 9-month-old dichorionic diamniotic male twin presented with right-sided optic disc coloboma and bilateral cleft lip and palate. This patient’s condition was complicated by hydrocephalus, right renal agenesis, and atrial septal defect. Discussion: The collection of findings raises the possibility of an unrecognized syndrome or association involving musculoskeletal, ocular, craniofacial, cardiac, and renal anomalies. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of comprehensive ocular and systemic screening in patients with cleft lip and cleft palate due to their potential association with a range of systemic anomalies.
Introduction: Eco-enzyme programs offer a sustainable strategy for managing organic waste in urban Indonesia, with health cadres playing a central role in community-based implementation. Eco-enzymes, produced by fermenting organic waste with sugar and water, are eco-friendly cleaners and fertilizers. The program’s success depends on knowledge, motivation, and long-term commitment. Methods: This mixed-methods study employed a sequential explanatory design involving 30 purposively selected health cadres in Central Jakarta, ensuring demographic diversity in age, education, income, and service duration. Quantitative data were collected through pre-post-tests and Likert-scale questionnaires assessing motivation (intrinsic, extrinsic, combined) and commitment (affective, normative, continuance). The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was used to evaluate knowledge improvement. Qualitative data from interviews and field observations explored cadres’ experiences, motivations, challenges, and perceptions of program sustainability. Results: Post-test scores significantly improved (p = 0.03), confirming the effectiveness of educational interventions. Motivation and commitment levels were generally high, especially in intrinsic and normative dimensions. However, over half of the participants (56.7%) expressed pessimism about the program’s long-term sustainability due to limited visible impact and policy support. Qualitative findings revealed that cadres’ continued engagement was driven by internal values such as religious beliefs, personal responsibility, and community solidarity despite structural constraints. Conclusion: Education improves knowledge and motivation, but long-term program success requires structural and policy support. The value-based commitment of cadres highlights the importance of integrating cultural, religious, and social motivators in future interventions. With contextual adaptations, the eco-enzyme program has the potential to scale up in other urban and low-resource settings.
Introduction: For children, influenza A (H1N1)-induced fulminant myocarditis poses a major risk since it frequently results in abrupt heart failure and has a high mortality rate. To maintain circulation as the myocardium heals, early extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) deployment may be essential. However, complications, including ischemic neuropathy and vascular damage, can have a significant effect on the patient’s recovery trajectory. Case Report: A previously healthy 8-year-old child had fever, cough, and severe chest pain. Her condition quickly worsened into cardiogenic shock when investigations indicated significant biventricular dysfunction caused by an H1N1 infection. By day 12 of her hospital stay, her circulation had normalized, and her heart had recovered upon receiving immediate venoarterial ECMO treatment. Her left lower limb weakness, which was consistent with ECMO-related neuropathy, persisted even after her heart improved, requiring continued rehabilitation. Discussion: This report demonstrates the life-saving role of ECMO in pediatric influenza myocarditis when introduced at an early stage. By stabilizing cardiac function and allowing time for recovery, ECMO can shift an otherwise critical trajectory toward a more favorable outcome. Nevertheless, clinicians must remain vigilant about vascular and neurological complications, emphasizing the necessity of thorough follow-up and interdisciplinary care. Conclusion: When combined with supportive measures such as physical therapy and neurological monitoring, prompt ECMO intervention can significantly improve both survival and quality of life for affected children.
Introduction: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) is globally accountable for human infections and is prevalent in the community and in hospitals, exhibiting a highly clonal population structure. This work determined the prevalence of Panton-Valentine Leucocidin gene containing MRSA (PVL+MRSA), furthermore, characterization of them through antibiotic resistance and molecular typing. Methods: MRSA strains were isolated from different specimens in the clinical laboratory of the tertiary care hospital in Pakistan. PVL+MRSA were tested against 10 antibiotics frequently applied for their management using the disc diffusion method. Afterward, molecular typing was conducted through typing of the mec gene inserted in Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome (SCCmec) and the gene encoding Staphylococcal Protein A (spa). Results: The prevalence of PVL+MRSA was 56.4% and showed considerable resistance to antibiotics including ciprofloxacin (86.7%), erythromycin (74.6%), gentamicin (65.0%), cotrimoxazole (46.9%), clindamycin (39.7%), tetracycline (38.5%), doxycycline (37.3%), and fusidic acid (21.6%). Linezolid and quinupristin/dalfopristin showed 100% susceptibility. SCCmec typing documented the highest prevalence of SCCmec element type V (63.8%), shadowed by IV (30.1%) and III (6.0%). While spa typing deduced eight different spa types, wherein spa type t657 showed the highest prevalence (49.3%), followed by t5414 (13.2%), t008 (12.0%), and t021 (10.8%), and the remaining four spa types were sporadically present. Both typing methods revealed that the most dominant clone is the Bengal Bay clone (t657/t5414-V), followed by the USA300 clone (t008-IV), and the Southwest Pacific clone (t021-IV). Conclusion: The pandemic multidrug-resistant community-associated MRSA strains, including Bengal Bay clone and USA300 clone, are predominant in the given hospital for SSTIs.
Introduction: This study aimed to assess the knowledge of dental practitioners in Dubai regarding concepts in restoring endodontically treated teeth (ETT). Materials and Methods: Registered dentists in the Emirates Medical Association (EMADubai) were sent an online questionnaire of 17 questions about their experience in restoring ETT from January 10 to June 10, 2020. Results: A total of 928 questionnaires were sent. Of these, 468 were completed (50.4% response rate), and 266 were included in the final analysis. Most respondents (77%) placed posts depending on the remaining tooth structure, 14% believed that post placement does not reinforce tooth structure, and 48% replied that reinforcement depends on the remaining structure. The fiber post was preferred both anteriorly (85%) and posteriorly (59%), and composite was the favorite core material both anteriorly (78%) and posteriorly (59%). Resin cement was the most commonly used material for post cementation (49%). Most participants (85%) were familiar with the endocrown and 74% of them used it to restore ETT. Conclusion: Many concepts related to restoring ETT were correctly held by the included sample of dentists. However, the function of the ferrule effect and post placements were often misperceived. This sample of dentists had varying levels of knowledge on the restoration of ETT and this study highlighted the importance of continuing dental education.
Introduction: The increasing prevalence of pediatric white spot lesions (WSLs) necessitates the development of more effective, personalized treatment approaches. Traditional treatment methods are often ineffective due to the variability in patient responses and the lack of a standardized, evidence-based approach. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers significant potential to address these challenges, enabling the creation of sophisticated decision-support tools that can guide clinical practice with data-driven, personalized treatment recommendations. Objectives: This study aims to develop an AI-based framework for pediatric WSL management, integrating patient-specific factors, treatment efficacy data, and emerging scientific evidence. Methods: The computational framework utilizes advanced bibliometric coupling techniques with Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science application programming interfaces (APIs) to synthesize 1470 relevant articles. A modular algorithm applies multivariate regression and machine learning models to predict treatment outcomes based on various patient-specific factors such as age, cooperation, and lesion severity. The algorithm also integrates phytochemical research to evaluate the therapeutic potential of botanical agents, using molecular docking and structural similarity analysis to identify compounds with dental applications. Results: The AI-driven algorithm successfully filters treatment options based on patient-specific criteria, such as lesion severity, cooperation, and material properties. Phytochemical compounds like triterpenes and phenolic derivatives from medicinal plants show promise in enhancing remineralization. Material efficacy ratings, derived from literature, allow the algorithm to recommend optimal treatments, such as nanofluoride with moringa extract for severe lesions. Conclusion: This AI-based framework significantly advances pediatric dental care, enabling personalized, evidence-based decision-making. By integrating scientific research, patient-specific factors, and emerging therapies, this tool enhances treatment precision and clinical outcomes for pediatric WSL management. Future developments should focus on expanding data sources and refining predictive models to further improve clinical adoption and patient care.
Recent national data reveal a significant opportunity to strengthen research collaboration within the UAE. According to “The Landscape of Health Research in the United Arab Emirates (2017-2022)” by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, international collaboration accounts for 81.6% of national research output, whereas national collaboration constitutes only 5.3%, far below global averages. This special issue, developed collaboratively by the International Association for Dental Research - UAE Section and the Dubai Medical Journal, was designed to support national scientific connectivity by providing a platform for UAE-based investigators from multiple dental institutions to present their work, discover one another’s research, and initiate potential collaborations. The issue features studies spanning artificial intelligence (AI), biomaterials, preventive dentistry, and educational innovation, reflecting the dynamic evolution of oral health research across the UAE. Together, these contributions illustrate how emerging technologies, evidence-based practice, and professional development can converge to advance clinical care and dental education. Conclusion: This Special Issue highlights both the scientific momentum within UAE dental institutions and the national opportunity to build stronger research networks. By promoting visibility, dialogue, and collaboration, this initiative aims to support a more interconnected oral health research ecosystem and set the stage for future joint investigations across the country.
Introduction: Oral cancer remains a primary global health concern, often diagnosed at advanced stages due to delayed detection. Early identification of malignant changes within oral lesions is critical to improving prognosis and survival rates. Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning, has emerged as a promising tool for image-based diagnostics, offering rapid, non-invasive screening support to clinicians. Aims and Objectives: This study seeks to build a deep learning model that accurately distinguishes between benign and malignant oral lesions by analyzing intraoral images. This approach aims to improve early detection rates, minimize the need for invasive procedures, and enhance accessibility to screening in clinical and remote settings. Methods: InceptionV3, a pre-trained deep learning algorithm, was retrained using a diverse dataset of intraoral images, each labeled based on histopathological findings. The model was optimized to recognize lesion features such as shape, color, texture, size, and location within the oral cavity. The study meets the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies requirements. Results: Performance was evaluated using key metrics: sensitivity (85%), specificity (70%), negative predictive value (NPV) (82.35%), positive predictive value (PPV) (73.9%), false negative rate (FNR) (15%), false positive rate (FPR) (30%), F1-score (79%), and overall accuracy (77.5%). The AI model effectively detected malignant lesions while maintaining moderate-to-high specificity for benign cases. The elevated F1-score reflects a balanced performance between precision and recall, while the overall accuracy supports the model’s viability as a diagnostic tool. Importantly, this model is intended as an adjunct to screening, assisting clinicians, rather than a replacement for histopathological diagnosis, which remains the gold standard. Conclusion: Deep learning-based image analysis offers a non-invasive and efficient adjunct to early screening of oral cancer diagnostics. It enables early detection, reduces the need for biopsies, and enhances screening accessibility. However, it cannot replace histological confirmation. Further clinical validation and optimization are necessary for real-world implementation.
Introduction: This preliminary investigation examined how the dental community views the incorporation of ChatGPT into the dental education curriculum and research. This research seeks to investigate how participants perceive, feel about, and prefer the potential use of ChatGPT to enhance teaching, learning, and research activities in dental education. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire was administered to 148 participants (37 staff and 111 students). The survey gathered data on the participants’ knowledge of ChatGPT, their views on its potential educational impact, and their preferences for integrating ChatGPT into the dental curriculum. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate differences based on demographic and academic factors. Results: The study found that 47.3% of the participants demonstrated a good understanding of ChatGPT basics, with 52.7% recognizing its limitations in terms of education and research. The majority (66%) believed that ChatGPT would significantly influence dental education within two years. Despite positive attitudes towards its potential, 80.4% of the participants emphasized the need for careful management and control of ChatGPT. Less than 40% preferred personalized feedback from ChatGPT, with many participants highlighting the necessity for additional guidance and skill development to use the tool efficiently. Conclusion: The findings suggest that ChatGPT holds considerable promise in enhancing dental education. However, apprehensions regarding excessive dependence on the tool and a potential decline in analytical thinking abilities remain. This study highlights the need for additional training and careful integration of the tool into the curriculum to maximize its benefits while minimizing risks. Expanding future research to include multiple institutions and larger sample sizes will provide a deeper understanding of the role of ChatGPT in clinical decision-making and case-based learning in dental education.
Introduction: Restoring endodontically treated teeth requires materials that balance mechanical strength and tooth preservation. Endocrowns provide a conservative approach compared to conventional post-and-core restorations. While monolithic zirconia is widely used for its superior fracture resistance, novel 3D-printed materials like VarseoSmile TriniQ offer potential advantages in digital workflows and restorability. This study compares the fracture resistance and failure patterns of monolithic zirconia and VarseoSmile TriniQ endocrowns to evaluate their suitability for clinical application. Methods: Eighteen extracted human molars were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 9 per group). Standardized endodontic treatment was performed, followed by endocrown preparation. Monolithic zirconia endocrowns were milled using CAD/CAM technology, while VarseoSmile TriniQ endocrowns were fabricated using highprecision 3D printing. All restorations were cemented with dual-cure resin cement. Fracture resistance was tested using a universal testing machine, applying a compressive load until failure. Failure patterns were classified as favorable, unfavorable simple, or unfavorable complex based on whether fractures were confined to the restoration, extended into the tooth structure, or severely compromised both. Data were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U test to determine statistical significance. Results: Zirconia endocrowns exhibited significantly higher fracture resistance (median = 3746.70 N, IQR = 1362.32 N) compared to VarseoSmile TriniQ (median = 1114.73 N, IQR = 180.66 N) (P < 0.001). Fracture patterns varied: 67% of zirconia failures were complex or destructive, compromising the natural tooth structure, whereas 60% of VarseoSmile TriniQ fractures remained confined to the restoration, sparing the tooth structure. Conclusion: Monolithic zirconia endocrowns demonstrate superior fracture resistance, making them ideal for high-load-bearing applications. However, VarseoSmile TriniQ offers a more favorable failure pattern, reducing the risk of catastrophic tooth damage. These findings suggest that while zirconia remains the preferred choice for durability, 3D-printed materials like VarseoSmile TriniQ could serve as viable alternatives in cases, prioritizing tooth preservation and digital efficiency.
Introduction: To establish a novel artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) segmentation method to investigate asymmetry in the maxilla in unilateral palatal canine impactions. Methods: Craniofacial CBCT datasets of subjects (n = 11) with unilateral palatal canine impactions were processed with a combination of AI-assisted automatic and user-guided segmentation techniques. Post-segmentation, three investigators independently measured the voxel-based volumes of specific maxillary structures, including the impacted and non-impacted maxillary sides and the maxillary canines. Results: High inter- and intra-investigator reliability in the volumetric measurements was seen. No significant right-left differences in the volumetric measurements of the skeletal maxillary halves (P = 0.3) or maxillary canines (P = 0.8) was observed in subjects with unilateral palatal canine impactions. Conclusions: This pilot feasibility study establishes a reliable method for future AI-assisted investigations of canine impactions using CBCT datasets. Within study limitations, right-left maxillary volumetric symmetry is observed in subjects with unilateral palatal canine impactions.
Introduction: Academic integrity is fundamental in higher education, particularly in medical and dental training, where professionalism and ethical behavior are critical. However, students often face challenges in mastering proper referencing, citation practices, and academic writing. Objectives: This study evaluates the impact of an academic integrity workshop titled “Referencing Excellence: Navigating Sources and Upholding Academic Integrity in Assignment Writing” on the performance and feedback of dental students. Methods: A case study design was employed over 2 months, incorporating quantitative analyses. The study population consisted of second-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students. Inclusion criteria required students to have attended the workshop and submitted assignments before and after the session. A total of 30 students met these criteria. Data collection involved pre- and post-training performance assessments using a rubric-based scoring system evaluating six key variables: content, literature, knowledge, reference, evidence, and illustration. Additionally, structured surveys captured students’ feedback on the workshop’s clarity, relevance, interactivity, and applicability. Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in all six performance variables, with the most substantial gains observed in evidence-based referencing (p < 0.001). Strong correlations were identified between students’ performance outcomes and feedback regarding the workshop’s clarity, relevance, and applicability (ρ = 0.50-0.62, p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that structured academic integrity workshops significantly improve students’ referencing skills and overall academic writing. The findings advocate for integrating similar educational interventions into higher education curricula to promote ethical scholarship and professional development. Future research should explore larger, multi-institutional studies and the incorporation of digital tools to further support students in mastering academic integrity practices.
Purpose: To investigate the confidence levels of optometry students in performing lensometry and to identify factors influencing it. Methods: This cross-sectional research was carried out on 51 undergraduate optometry students (26 fourth-term and 25 sixth-term) at Zahedan City, Iran, in 2024. Each participant provided feedback on the impact of the lensometry training on their confidence levels via a four-section structured questionnaire using a census sampling method. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multiple regression model were employed to analyze information. The significance level was set at 0.05. All analyses were performed using SPSS ver. 26.0. Results: Fourth-term students had a significantly higher mean confidence score (55.19) than sixth term students (55.19 vs. 49.72; p = 0.03). The mean lensometry experience score was also notably higher for fourth-term than sixth-term students (11.88 vs. 10.40; p = 0.03). A significant positive association was detected between lensometry experience and student confidence (r = 0.69, p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a moderate direct association between adherence to basic principles and confidence (r = 0.53, p < 0.001). Confidence in performing lensometry for bifocal lenses (74.50%) was significantly higher compared to progressive lenses (31.37%), which correlated with more experience in bifocal lensometry (70.59% vs. 25.49%). Notably, 89.54% of students lacked experience in reading prism, resulting in lower confidence (21.85%). Conclusion: Sixth-term students exhibited lower confidence and less lensometry experience than fourth-term students. All students reported lower confidence in performing lensometry on complex lenses. Continuous evaluation of students, giving them appropriate feedback, providing basic training with computer simulators, and doing more exercises with these tools can be useful in solving this problem.
Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) poses a significant challenge in contemporary medicine, with its prevalence on the rise despite limited understanding and awareness. Objectives: This study seeks to assess undergraduate medical students’ awareness of PCOS and investigate lifestyle behaviors among female students that may be linked to the condition. Methods: A 5-month cross-sectional survey study was carried out with undergraduate medical students at Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Science University. Participants completed an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire covering demographics, PCOS awareness, and lifestyle factors. Results: The findings indicate that 66.0% of medical students had a low-to-moderate level of awareness about PCOS, with a mean score of 16±7.8 out of 30. Female participants showed significantly higher mean scores of awareness in all categories (P<001). Less than one-third (30.1%) of students were unaware of menstrual cycle irregularities, while 32.2% did not recognize hormonal imbalance as a risk factor. More than half (55.4%) were unaware of endometrial cancer as a potential complication, and 51.5% did not recognize the psychological ramifications of binge eating disorder. Almost one-third (33.5%) of students were unaware of the role of regular exercise in PCOS prevention. Regarding lifestyle behaviors, 70.7% of females reported regular consumption of junk food, while 56.1% engaged in regular exercise. There was no association between lifestyle behaviors and level of awareness (P>0.05). Conclusion: The study identified gaps in knowledge regarding PCOS among undergraduate medical students, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and education. Lifestyle behavior modifications, including dietary habits and stress management, are essential for enhancing understanding and promoting preventive strategies among medical students.
Introduction: The United Arab Emirates has proven its lead position in modern healthcare delivery and is considered an important medical tourism destination in the region. Government and public institutions have the opportunity to distinguish themselves in a competitive industry by providing outstanding and superior healthcare services. Enhancing patient care has become a paramount focus for all healthcare service providers, aiming to achieve high levels of patient satisfaction as their ultimate goal. Aim: The study aimed to determine the level of satisfaction, happiness, and loyalty among patients attending primary healthcare centers (PHCCs) and finding the factors that lead to improved patient satisfaction. Method: A self-administered survey was used to conduct this cross-sectional study in six main PHCCs that covers different Emirates in the United Arab Emirates and included 350 participants. Results: The study revealed that 82% of patients reported feeling happy after receiving care at the center, while 86% expressed high satisfaction with the primary healthcare (PHC) services. Additionally, 81% of patients demonstrated loyalty by maintaining trust in the PHC staff and returning to the center for future medical care. A strong correlation was observed between patient satisfaction and their level of happiness with the healthcare services provided, which, in turn, was significantly linked to loyalty, reinforcing trust and preference for future care. Conclusion: Using data from this study as a baseline to improve services in future is crucial since the patient’s perspectives and their voices are increasingly influential in enhancing health care delivery system.
