Purpose : The aim of this study was to investigate dental hygienists' awareness and practices regarding oral health care education and interdental space measurement tool (ISMT) use for interdental brush prescriptions. Methods : Thirty dental hygienists from various dental clinics and hospitals in Busan participated in the study. Initially, they completed a pre-survey assessing their existing awareness and practices related to oral health care education. Following this, they received comprehensive training on the application of the ISMT for interdental brush usage. After the training, a second survey was conducted to evaluate any changes in their awareness. The participants then provided oral health care education to patients over a two-month period, during which they executed what they had learned. Finally, they completed a third survey to assess the long-term impact of the training. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0 to gauge the general characteristics of the participants and their educational levels regarding oral health care through frequency analysis and mean difference tests. Paired-sample t-tests were utilized to evaluate their changes in awareness and practices concerning interdental brushes before and after the training and after two months of patient interaction. Results : Significant differences in the level of oral health care education were noted among the participants based on their work experience (p<.001), age (p<.05), and educational background (p<.05). Post-training, a marked increase was identified in their awareness regarding the prescription and use of interdental brushes with the ISMT (p<.05). After two months of patient interaction, their awareness of interdental brush prescriptions significantly improved, particularly in terms of patient satisfaction, changes in oral conditions, understanding brush sizes, and addressing patient inquiries (p<.05). Additionally, the frequency of weekly oral health care education and toothbrush training significantly increased (p<.05). Conclusion : The ISMT is an effective tool for enhancing oral health care education. ISMT utilization may improve dental hygienists' awareness and practices regarding oral health care education.

Purpose : This study evaluated the disability in daily living among school-age children with cerebral palsy and examined the relationship between this and the social support needs of their caregivers, namely their families. Additionally, the study was conducted to serve as reference material for planning social institutional support and policies that can enhance the capabilities required for families of school-age children with cerebral palsy to raise their children and improve satisfaction with daily living. Methods : To identify the relationship between disabilities in daily living of school-age children with cerebral palsy and the social support needs of their families, a correlational research design was employed. The degree of disability in the children's daily living was assessed using the functional independence measure, evaluating independent functional levels in the physical domain and the cognitive domain. The social support needs of the families were collected through self-reported answers using the family needs survey questionnaire developed by Bailey and Blasco. This questionnaire consists of six domains and 35 items: need for information, need for support, explaining to others, community services, financial needs, and family functioning. Results : The results of this study showed that the social support needs of families regarding the disabilities in daily living of school-age children with cerebral palsy exhibited positive and negative correlations across all six components. However, the components that were related differed according to the level of disability. Conclusion : The results of this study indicate that the social support needs required by families and caregivers raising school-age children with cerebral palsy vary according to the children's disability in daily life. Therefore, counseling social institutional support and policies strategies involving multidisciplinary experts supporting the children and their families should be appropriately established to meet these needs and applied selectively.

Purpose : Orthodontics is an essential treatment method for modern people with high aesthetic concerns, as it corrects malocclusion or uneven teeth. Orthodontic treatment changes the position of the teeth by moving them. Osteoclasts are formed on the side where the correction force is applied, and osteoblasts are formed on the other side. Plasma is the fourth substance and has been widely used in various medical fields, including bacterial killing, cell differentiation, and cancer cell death. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of no ozone cold plasma (hereafter referred to as NCP), which generates little ozone and is used in various medical fields, to induce osteoclast differentiation for proper tooth movement. Methods : This study conducted the following experiment to investigate whether the treatment of RAW 264.7 cells with no-ozone cold plasma induces differentiation into osteoclast cells. Water-soluble tetrazolium salt-1 assay was used to examine the growth of RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was used to evaluate NCP-induced osteoclast differentiation. Additionally, real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the mRNA levels of osteoclast-related factors. Results : In this study, RAW 264.7 cell growth was significantly lower in the NCP-treated group than in the untreated group at 24 and 48 h. TRAP staining revealed increased osteoclast differentiation of these cells. Moreover, real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed significantly higher mRNA levels of osteoclast-inducing factors c-FOS, cathepsin K, nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1, osteoclast-associated receptor, and TRAP in the NCP-treated group than in the untreated group. Conclusion : Overall, our results demonstrate that no ozone cold plasma successfully induced the osteoclast differentiation of RAW 264.7 cells, showing potential for use in novel tooth movement devices for orthodontic treatment.

Purpose : This study was conducted to investigate the immediate effects of wall slide and scapular setting exercises on scapular upward rotator muscle activity and upper trapezius pressure pain threshold in subjects with scapular downward rotation syndrome. Methods : Thirty adult men with scapular downward rotation syndrome were randomly assigned to either a wall slide (n= 15) or a scapular setting (n= 15) exercise group. Each participant performed the wall slide exercise and scapular setting exercise for equal periods of 30 min. Scapular upward rotator muscle activity and pressure pain threshold of the upper trapezius muscle were measured using a wireless surface electromyography device and an electronic algometer, respectively. Results : Comparison within groups showed that the wall slide exercise group exhibited a significant decrease in the upper trapezius muscle activity (p<.05) but a significant increase in the serratus anterior muscle activity and upper trapezius pressure pain threshold (p<.05). The scapular setting exercise group exhibited significantly increased muscle activity of the serratus anterior (p<.05). Comparison between groups showed that the wall slide exercise group exhibited significantly decreased muscle activity of the upper trapezius compared with the scapular setting exercise group (p<.05) and significantly increased muscle activity of the serratus anterior and pressure pain threshold of the upper trapezius (p<.05). Conclusion : The wall slide exercise decreased the muscle activity of the upper trapezius and increased the muscle activity of the serratus anterior and the pressure pain threshold of the upper trapezius in subjects with scapular downward rotation syndrome. The scapular setting exercise increased the muscle activity of the serratus anterior. Both exercises were effective for subjects with scapular downward rotation syndrome, with the wall slide exercise being more effective than the scapular setting exercise.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the effects of cognitive-physical integrated training on gait function and cognitive function in elderly patients with dementia. Methods : This study evaluated gait function and cognitive function in elderly patients with dementia. Participants were randomly assigned using the random number generation (random number generator) function in microsoft excel, with odd-numbered patients allocated to the cognitive-physical integrated training group (n= 15) and even-numbered patients assigned to the conventional physical therapy group (n= 15). The experimental group received cognitive-physical integrated training in addition to conventional physical therapy, while the control group received only conventional physical therapy. Gait function was measured using the G-Walk, assessing cadence, gait speed, and step length, while cognitive function was measured using the Korean version of the Montreal cognitive assessment (K-MoCA). The intervention was conducted five times per week over six weeks. Results : After the intervention, both the cognitive-physical integrated training group and the conventional physical therapy group showed statistically significant improvements in cadence, gait speed, step length, and cognitive function (p<.05). However, between-group comparisons revealed that the experimental group experienced significantly greater improvements than the control group in cadence, gait speed, step length, and cognitive function (p<.05). Conclusion : The results of this study confirmed that both the cognitive-physical integrated training group and the conventional physical therapy group were effective in improving gait function and cognitive function in elderly patients with dementia. Notably, the cognitive-physical integrated training group showed greater improvements in cadence, gait speed, step length, and cognitive function compared to the conventional physical therapy group. These findings suggest that cognitive-physical integrated training may be an effective approach to enhancing gait and cognitive abilities in elderly patients with dementia. Future research should explore the long-term effects of this training and include a larger sample size for further investigation.

Purpose : This study investigated the impact of a culture-based mathematics program on adolescent mental health, focusing on reducing anxiety and depression while improving attention/concentration. Methods : The study was conducted with 50 middle-school students, using two culture-based mathematics programs. Data were collected using pre- and post-intervention surveys. Results : Participants' psychological well-being improved significantly. Depression scores decreased from an average of 8.44 to 6.00, suggesting a reduction in depressive symptoms. Anxiety scores also declined from 6.68 to 4.98, reflecting reduced anxiety levels. Furthermore, attention/concentration scores improved from 31.44 to 33.32, indicating an enhanced focus. Paired t-tests confirmed the statistical significance of the observed changes. Conclusion : The results suggest that integrating cultural and creative elements into mathematics education can significantly improve adolescents' mental health. Moving beyond traditional problem-solving approaches and offering more engaging and creative experiences helps students develop positive attitudes towards mathematics. By integrating art, music, and other cultural components, participants engaged with the subject in a less anxiety-inducing manner, which alleviated academic stress and improved their mental well-being. Thus, culture-based mathematics programs serve as effective tools to reduce anxiety and depression while enhancing attention and concentration in adolescents. This approach fosters academic achievement and promotes positive psychological outcomes. Merging the creative arts with mathematics makes the subject more approachable, reducing academic stress and supporting healthy mental states. These findings encourage further exploration of creative educational strategies to enhance both academic performance and mental health outcomes. Transforming mathematics into a cultural experience can foster emotional well-being and reduce the stigma associated with learning, ultimately contributing to students' overall health.

Purpose: This study aims to test the efficacy of clove bud essential oil (CBEO) as a composition for preventing and treating oral diseases, including dental caries and periodontal inflammation by verifying its antibacterial effect, growth inhibition effect, and biofilm formation inhibitory effect against both Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Method: Clove bud essential oil (CBEO) was diluted in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and the final concentrations were 10 %, 15 %, 20 %, and 30 %. The antimicrobial activity against S. mutans and P. gingivalis for each concentration was verified by the disk diffusion method. In addition, the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) was measured at the concentrations of 0 %, 0.3 %, 0.7 %, 1.5 %, 3 %, 6.25 %, and 12.5 %. The growth inhibitory effect was estimated at the absorbance of 600 nm every 0, 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours of S. mutans and P. gingivalis. After 48 hours of treatment, biofilm formation was analyzed followed by each concentration. Results: CBEO exhibited a strong antimicrobial effect on S. mutans and P. gingivalis, especially it showed potent antimicrobial efficacy from the lowest concentration of 10% against S. mutans. The growth inhibition was also occurred by 10 % CBEO treatment against both strains, but there was no significant dose-dependency. In addition, the biofilm formation against S. mutans and P. gingivalis was inhibited by more than 40-50 % at 10 % CBEO treatment, without any significant concentration-dependent manner. Conclusion: This study showed that CBEO had more potent antimicrobial activities, such as clear zone formation, growth inhibition effect, and biofilm formation inhibitory effect against S.mutans than those of P. gingivalis. These results indicate that CBEO could be used as a compositionin of toothpaste and gargle for children who are exposed at high risk of dental caries.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the effects of shoulder stabilization exercises combined with extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) on the muscle activity around the shoulder and the shoulder pain index in patients with subdeltoid bursitis. Methods : This study measured shoulder muscle activity (upper trapezius, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior) and the shoulder pain and disability index in patients with subdeltoid bursitis. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (extracorporeal shockwave therapy group) or the control group (shoulder stretching group) using a random number table generated by a computer program. All participants performed shoulder stabilization exercises, with the experimental group additionally receiving extracorporeal shockwave therapy and the control group performing shoulder stretching exercises. Muscle activity was measured using sEMG, and shoulder pain and disability were assessed using the shoulder pain and disability index. The intervention was conducted three times per week for four weeks. Results : The intra-group comparison results showed statistically significant differences in shoulder muscle activity and shoulder pain and functional scores in both the experimental and control groups, confirming that both intervention methods were effective (p<.05). The inter-group comparison analysis revealed that the experimental group showed significantly greater improvements in muscle activity of the lower fibers of the trapezius and the serratus anterior, as well as in shoulder pain and functional scores, compared to the control group (p<.05), while no significant difference was observed in the upper fibers of the trapezius. These findings suggest that both interventions were effective, but the intervention applied to the experimental group demonstrated relatively superior effects. Conclusion : The intervention method used in this study suggests an effective rehabilitation approach for improving muscle activity and reducing pain in patients with subdeltoid bursitis.

Purpose : This study aimed to determine the correlations between perceived stress, self-compassion, and psychosocial maturity among female physical therapy students who are exposed to stressful situations due to the large amount of major study. Methods : Ninety-six female students voluntarily participated in the study through open recruitment at the department of physical therapy of K university in Gwangju metropolitan city. Measurement tools included the perceived stress, Korean version of self-compassion, and psychosocial maturity scales, which measured perceived stress, self-compassion, and psychosocial maturity, respectively. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis (r), and the significance level (α) was set at .05. Results : Correlating the total score of each dependent variable, perceived stress significantly negatively correlated with self-compassion (r= -0.65) and psychosocial maturity (r= -0.47). The correlation coefficient between self-compassion and psychosocial maturity was 0.41, indicating a significant positive correlation. Regarding the correlation by sub-item, the total score of perceived stress showed significant negative or positive correlations with sub-items of self-compassion (self-kindness, r= -0.36; self-judgment, r= 0.60; isolation, r= 0.47; mindfulness, r= -0.28; over-identified, r= 0.57) and psychosocial maturity (personal maturity, r= -0.46; interpersonal compatibility, r= -0.30; social openness, r= -0.38). Importantly, mindfulness (a sub-item of self-compassion) positively correlated with all psychosocial maturity sub-items (personal maturity, r= 0.22; interpersonal compatibility, r= 0.30; social openness, r= 0.36) and negatively correlated with the negative item of perceived stress (r= -0.27). Conclusion : Higher levels of perceived stress were related to lower self-compassion and psychosocial maturity, whereas higher levels of mindfulness were associated with higher psychosocial maturity and lower perceived stress. Therefore, we suggest incorporating a mindfulness-based education program into university curricula to enhance stress management abilities, self-compassion, and psychosocial maturity in undergraduate physical therapy students.

Purpose : To evaluate clinical effectiveness of the CAMBRA-students mobile application specifically designed for elementary school students in managing dental caries risk and propose a novel approach to improve oral health through targeted interventions tailored to caries risk levels. Methods : Subjects of this study were 51 elementary school children (22 in an intervention group and 29 in a control group) whose parents consented to the purpose of this study. Parents downloaded the app and entered their children's caries protective and risk factors and the clinician entered risk factors and disease indicators from students' oral examinations to determine their caries risk. Both the intervention and control groups received the same oral health education once. The intervention group implemented appropriate preventive measures and interventions according to caries risk level in accordance with a caries management protocol. Clinical indicators such as Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index, simple plaque score (SPS), and stimulated salivary flow rate (SSFR) were evaluated before and after the intervention. Data collected in this study were analyzed at the 95 % significance level using SPSS version 23.0 program. Results : The DMFT index increased statistically significantly after the intervention in both intervention and control groups. The intervention group showed a significant (p<.05) reduction in SPS, while the DMFT index and salivary flow rate showed no significant changes compared to the control group. In addition, the control group showed an increase in the group with extreme high-risk of caries at one year. Conclusion : The CAMBRA-students mobile application effectively reduced plaque levels, highlighting its potential for caries prevention in elementary school students. This suggests that a tailored intervention using the CAMBRA-students mobile application might be effective in managing dental caries in primary school children.

Purpose : The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the health information-seeking process on e-health literacy in middle-aged adults. Methods : A secondary data analysis was conducted of publicly available data collected in 2021. A total of 752 adults aged 40 to 64 who had used healthcare services were included. Data on demographic characteristics, health information sources, methods for verifying the reliability of information, and e-health literacy were collected through an online survey. Demographic characteristics included sex, age, marital status, highest education level, subjective health status, and the number of chronic diseases. Health information sources and reliability-checking methods were assessed by having participants select the corresponding responses. e-Health literacy was measured using the 8-item ehealth literacy scale (eHEALS). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the independent t-test, analysis of variance, and multiple regression analyses. Results : Among the 752 participants, 49.9 % were women, and the mean age was 51.46 years. Approximately 75.9 % were married, and 75.1 % held a bachelor's degree or higher. The average subjective health status was 3.17 out of 5, while the mean e-health literacy score was 29.01 out of 40. The primary sources of health information were credible media and unofficial internet media. The most common method for verifying information reliability was cross-checking multiple news sources and media outlets. Factors that positively influenced e-health literacy included higher subjective health status, the use of unofficial internet media for health information, and verifying information by cross-checking multiple news sources or confirming scientific evidence. Conclusion : The findings indicate a need to manage and monitor the quality of health information on unofficial internet media to enhance e-health literacy among middle-aged adults. They also underscore the importance of promoting reliable methods for assessing the accuracy of health information.

Purpose : Korea's female labor force participation rate and the proportion of dual-income households are steadily increasing. In 2023, dual-income households with children aged 6 or younger exceeded 50 % for the first time, highlighting the growing childcare burden. Among dual-income couples, wives often experience high levels of fatigue from household chores and childcare, placing working mothers under the dual burden of workplace and parenting stress. This study examines how married working mothers' perceptions of marriage values and satisfaction with their spouse's childcare sharing affect parenting stress, particularly for mothers with infants and toddlers. Methods : Using raw data from the 2021 National Family and Fertility Survey, this study focused on a sample of 374 women from dual-income households with infant and toddler-aged children. Descriptive statistical analysis, reliability analysis, Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis, and hierarchical regression analysis were conducted using the SPSS Statistics 29.0 program. Results : The main research results are as follows : First, the satisfaction with spousal sharing of childcare was 2.68 points, marital values were 2.61 points, and parenting stress was 3.41 points. Second, the correlation between the main variables showed that parenting stress had a negative correlation with satisfaction with spousal sharing of childcare and marital values. Third, it was found that satisfaction with spousal sharing of childcare (β= -0.353) and marriage values (β= -0.134) had a negative effect on parenting stress, in that order. Conclusion : This study confirmed that satisfaction with a spouse's childcare sharing and marriage values are factors influencing parenting stress among working mothers with infants and toddlers. Reflecting these findings, a multifaceted and integrated approach is necessary to establish gender-equal parenting roles and foster positive marriage values. To achieve this, individuals, families, communities, the government, and workplaces must collaborate in a coordinated and organic manner.

Purpose : This study aims to develop a game-based exercise content that integrates a convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm with artificial intelligence (AI), and evaluate its performance. Methods : Thirty healthy adults were assigned to either the experimental group (AI convergence exercise; EG) or the control group (CG). The AI convergence exercise, based on the CNN algorithm, not only analyzes the movements of a user in real time, but also enables immediate integration with the game program. The participants are tasked with controlling an avatar, whose movements are instantly synchronized with their own, to perform activities such as evading by moving their entire body in all directions (forward, backward, left, and right). The outcome of the intervention was assessed using proprioceptive sensory measure and the limits of stability in left, right, forward, backward, and total directions. Results : The results showed significant improvements on the proprioceptive sensory measure and the limits of stability in the left, right, forward, backward, and total directions in the EG post-intervention. Specifically, there were notable changes in the limit of stability in all directions. In the CG, no significant change was observed in proprioceptive sensory of dorsi, plantar, and knee flexions; however, significant changes were observed in limits of stability in the left, right, forward, backward, and total directions. There was no significant difference between the groups in proprioceptive sensory measures; however, significant differences were observed between the groups in limits of stability in the left, right, forward, backward, and total directions. Conclusion : This study demonstrates that AI convergence exercise positively affects the proprioceptive sensory and balance ability of healthy adults. These results suggest that the AI convergence exercise is beneficial for balance and proprioceptive sensory improvements.

Purpose : This study aims to transcend the conventional applications of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation by exploring its potential to enhance muscle strength. The objective of this research is to systematically review the parameters of TENS electrical stimulation and apply them to propose innovative approaches for improving muscle strength. Methods : Seventy-four healthy adult participants underwent TENS intervention targeting the quadriceps muscle three times a week for one week. The TENS electrical stimulation parameters employed in the experiment were as follows: frequency of 60 Hz pulse width of 150 ㎲, duty cycle of 50 %, and stimulation intensity adjusted to achieve a knee flexion angle of 0~15°. The intervention protocol included one set of 15 repetitions of quadriceps femoris muscle contraction and relaxation over 5 minutes, with a total of 3 sets performed in each session for a duration of 15 minutes, allowing for 30 seconds of rest between sets. Muscle strength was assessed by measuring the maximum isometric contraction strength of the quadriceps femoris using a digital muscle strength measurement device. Additionally, a visual analog scale (VAS) was employed to evaluate the subjective perception of electrical stimulation required to activate motor nerves. We also examined the occurrence of delayed onset muscle pain (DOMS) experienced during the experimental period. Results : Muscle strength prior to the TENS intervention was 63.34±30.16 lbs, while post-intervention muscle strength increased to 74.39±31.84 lbs, reflecting a strength improvement of 16.98±17.05 % over one week. These changes were statistically significant (p<.000). The average intensity of the TENS electrical stimulation was 17.78±1.92 mA and the subjective discomfort level from the electrical stimulation, measured at the end of the experiment, was 3.59±1.40 points. Additionally, 33 participants experienced delayed onset muscle soreness. Conclusion : This study statistically validated the muscle strength-enhancing effects of TENS. Future research should focus on identifying more appropriate and personalized electrical stimulation parameters.

Purpose : Insoles are generally thought of as a part of a walking shoe. Functional insoles can effectively distribute the load on the soles of the feet when walking and even play a role in improving proper walking habits by inducing changes in foot pressure. In this respect, the difference between regular insoles and functional insoles is significant. Stability of the foot is when the first metatarsal (hallux point), fifth toe, and heel are in contact with the floor. Therefore, this study was to determine the effects of experimental (functional) insole application using a hallux point on gait pattern. Methods : The experimental investigated changes in gait pattern with the use of experimental (functional) insole that emphasized the hallux point. After explaining the experiment to the subjects, the GAITRite was conducted to measure gait pattern before the insole was applied. The study subjects performed the first walk wearing the shoes they regular insole, and then had them remove the regular insole and perform the second walk while wearing the experimental (functional) insole. The test was then repeated after the functional insole with the hallux point. Twenty-nine participated in this study. The level for verifying statistical significance was set at 𝛼= .005. Results : The experimental (functional) insole that emphasizes the hallux point significantly increased the step length (p<.005), stride length (p<.005), velocity (p<.005) measured by the GAITRite compared to before the insole application. Cadence was no significant difference. Conclusion : This study examined changes in gait pattern using experimental (functional) insoles and regular insoles. Significant differences were found in step length, stride length, and velocity. However, there was no difference in cadence. The use of experimental (functional) insole that emphasizes the hallux point can help improving gait pattern through the regular insole.

Purpose : This study tried to analyze the functionalities of seaweed complex extract as functional cosmetics including four kinds of brown algae which are known for their skin whitening and skim moisturizing activities. Methods : Then, they were evaluated as the source of functional cosmetics. The bioavailability of seaweed complex extracts was evaluated by cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative activities. Based on these results, the prototype of the face sheet mask was prepared and the safety was verified by a certified accreditation institute. After IRB approval (DIRB-202109-HR-R-16) at University D, a clinical trial was conducted on 60 participants and the results of 57 people were analyzed after excluding dropouts. Before and after participation, the skin was measured using a professional skin measuring instrument SDM, and the personal hydrometer was used to measure the center of the cheeks twice a week. Results : Participants in the clinical trial tended to prefer moisture cosmetics over others, purchase skin whitening cosmetics mainly in summer. After the clinical trial, the skin moisture was increased to 9.8 in the experimental group. In addition, the degree of oiliness and pore change was also the most potently regulated in the experimental group. Otherwise, the elasticity was strongly regulated in the control group C. In the results of the personal hydrometer, the degree of skin moisture was the highest in the experimental group, and the degree of oiliness was significantly modulated in both experimental and control group C. Conclusion : The prototype of a face sheet mask using seaweed complex extracts showed the most potent change in skin moisture, improved pores, and elasticity, as well as improved skin brightness, blemishes, and dryness. Consequently, these results show the potential of seaweed complex extract to be used as an ingredient in functional cosmetics.

Purpose : This study aimed to compare the effects of dynamic neuromuscular stabilization and power breathing exercises on improving lung function for healthy male and female students in their 20s. Methods : In this study, 30 participants (10 men and 20 women) in their 20s were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a dynamic neuromuscular stabilization breathing exercise group (experimental 1) and a power breathing exercise group (experimental 2). The experimental 1 group performed exercises lying down with flexed hip and knee joints, focusing on abdominal expansion during breathing, while the experimental 2 group performed seated power breathing exercises. Both groups exercised three times a week for four weeks, with the experimental 1 group completing five sets and the experimental 2 group two sets. FVC, FEV₁, and FEV₁/FVC were measured at baseline and at two weeks and four weeks post-intervention. Results : As a result of analyzing the variables before the experiment to verify homogeneity, there was no significant difference in the preliminary mean values between the two groups for all variables, so the two groups could be considered the same group (p>.05). Initial analysis showed no significant differences in baseline measurements between the two groups for all variables, confirming homogeneity. Analysis of experimental results revealed significant improvements in FVC, FEV₁, and FEV₁/FVC overtime (p<.05). No significant differences were observed between the two groups interms of changes in the sevariables (p>.05). Conclusion: Both dynamic neuromuscular stabilization breathing and power breathing exercises significantly affected the changes in FVC, FEV₁, and FEV₁/FVC, underscoring their substantial impact on improving pulmonary function. These findings suggest that both approaches may serve as valuable interventions for pulmonary function enhancement. Further research is necessary to explore these effects in greater depth.

Purpose : The purpose of this study is to serve as a valuable resource for guiding the digitization of dental hygiene curricula and improving educational quality. Methods : A self-administered survey was conducted among a random sample of dental hygiene students who had undergone clinical practicums at universities in Busan and Ulsan. The sample consisted of 270 subjects, accounting for the dropout rate. The data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics 27.0 with a statistical significance level set at α = .05. Descriptive statistics were used to assess demographic characteristics, awareness of digital oral scanners, prior traininged experience, and willingness to, and whether or not they wanted to be undergo training. Cross tabulation and independent samples t-tests were employed to compare the improvement of dental care following the introduction of digital oral scanners based on general characteristics, prior training experience, and willingness to attend training. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to analyze the multivariate differences in the improvement of dental care when introducing digital oral scanners according to the experience of digital oral scanner training, and Duncan-s post hoc test was performed. Results : Among the perceptions of an improved dental treatment environment, digital oral scanners are more likely to be seen as improving dental diagnosis, increasing practice efficiency, and improving the image of the clinic when training experience is lacking. In addition, perceptions of digital dentistry, adapting well to the digital operating system, and needing ongoing continuous training in on digital procedures procedures wereare more likely to be used when training experience was lacking. The main effect of educational experience was found to be higher among those with no educational experience, meaning that students without such experience tended to have higher positive expectations of digital intraoral scanners. This indicates that perceptions may differ based on technology experience. Conclusions : By analyzing the impact of digital oral scanner training on students' expectations and actual perceptions, this study suggests directions for digital technology education in dental hygiene. In particular, a balanced approach that harmonizes theory and practice is needed to reduce the gap between students expectations and experiences. This approach is expected to establish a standard of practice utilizing digital technology and to provide an educational foundation that helps students become highly adaptable in clinical practice.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to systematically and in-depth analyze the experiences of university professors participating in a sabbatical year through a qualitative case study from the perspective of the participants. By exploring the participation experiences based on the authentic internal voices of professors, this study aims to establish a more valid theoretical foundation for sabbatical programs. Methods: The participants were eight professors who were dispatched to the University of Hawaii in the United States from August 1, 2023, to July 2024. Their academic specialties included nursing, medicine, and education. The researcher collected data through field notes, field journals, and reflective journals from participant observation, a representative data collection method in qualitative case studies. Primary or initial coding was conducted through structural analysis. Results: The specific research results are as follows. First, the professors participating in the sabbatical year had various motivations and purposes for applying depending on their personal situations. However, the professors participating in the sabbatical year gradually clarified their motivations and purposes for applying and prepared and implemented accordingly. Second, the professors participating in the sabbatical year went through a process of challenge and adaptation depending on their personal situations in the actual sabbatical year adaptation process. Third, the professors on the sabbatical year naturally developed a sense of camaraderie and formed mutual exchanges and a professional community. Fourth, professors who were on sabbatical were able to help each other achieve their goals while working to achieve the results they needed to achieve during the sabbatical. Conclusion: This study provides foundational data for understanding the experiences and significance of professors participating in sabbatical programs. It also offers insights into potential improvement measures to enhance the effectiveness of sabbatical years for future participants.

Purpose : This study aims to examine the roles and responsibilities related to sarcopenia, including its diagnosis, screening, intervention, as well as the barriers to clinical practice, awareness, and educational support among physical therapists working in medical institutions. Methods : A survey was conducted with 151 physical therapists working at medical institutions in Busan from October 1 to October 31, 2024. The study analyzed the physical therapists' awareness of sarcopenia using descriptive statistics. Results : Physical therapists demonstrated a proper understanding of the concept and definition of sarcopenia, the typical age of onset, and showed a positive perception of the importance of regular examinations and management of sarcopenia, as well as the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving rehabilitation and nutritional intervention. They had a relatively clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of doctors, physical therapists, and other professionals in diagnosing, screening, and intervening in sarcopenia. Despite this understanding, many physical therapists were unfamiliar with specific diagnostic guidelines for sarcopenia but were well-informed about the tools and methods used for diagnosis, screening, and intervention. Limited direct clinical experience with sarcopenia patients was reported, along with significant barriers such as a lack of resources, time constraints, and insufficient educational support to effectively diagnose, screen, and manage sarcopenia in clinical settings. Conclusion : Physical therapists demonstrated a high level of awareness regarding sarcopenia and recognized its importance in elderly rehabilitation. However, challenges in accurate diagnosis, screening, and practical interventions were evident. Furthermore, limited access to clinical practice opportunities and resources highlights the urgent need for enhanced knowledge, targeted education, and improved access to practical tools and institutional support for diagnosing and managing sarcopenia in Korea. Therefore, it is necessary to develop and implement comprehensive measures for sarcopenia education and the preparation of clinical practice.

Purpose : This study aimed to analyze leg muscle activation under different stepping conditions while performing a recumbent ergometer at saddle distances to knee flexion angles of 15 °, 25 °, and 35 ° in healthy adults. Based on the findings, the study sought to provide evidence for optimal stepping conditions in recumbent ergometer to maximize selective muscle strengthening and exercise performance in clinical settings. Methods : The study was conducted with 22 healthy adult males, adjusting the saddle distance at three knee flexion angles during recumbent ergometer. All participants performed five minutes of stretching and warm-up before the study, exercised for 30 seconds at a fraction of 60 rpm, and recorded electromyographic signals for five seconds. Surface electromyography was used to measure the activation of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius. Results : The muscle activation of the rectus femoris and biceps femoris showed no significant difference between knee flexion angles of 15 ° and 25 °. There was significant difference between the stepping conditions at saddle distances to knee flexion angles of 15 ° and 35 °, as well as 25 ° and 35 °. While the tibialis anterior muscle activation showed no significant differences, the gastrocnemius muscle activation exhibited significant differences across all stepping conditions, including knee flexion angles of 15 ° and 25 °, 15 ° and 35 °, and 25 ° and 35 °. Conclusion : During recumbent ergometer, in the stepping condition to knee flexion of 15 °, where the saddle distance was longer, the muscle activation of the biceps femoris and gastrocnemius significantly increased. In contrast, in the stepping condition to knee flexion of 35 °, where the saddle distance was shorter, the activation of the rectus femoris significantly increased. Future recumbent ergometer should be performed with stepping conditions set according to knee flexion angles that align with an individual's anthropometric characteristics and exercise goals.