ABSTRACT
Swallowing problems can complicate the course of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, no validated questionnaire for the assessment of dysphagia in MS is currently available. We previously developed a 10-item DYsphagia in Multiple Sclerosis questionnaire (DYMUS). In the present study, this questionnaire was submitted to a validation process. Thirteen Italian MS centres took part in this research in which DYMUS was administered to 1734 consecutive MS patients during routine checkups outside relapse. The questionnaire showed very good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.914). It was then subdivided into two subscales, both of which also showed very good internal consistency: Cronbach's alpha was 0.885 for the 'dysphagia for solids' subscale and 0.864 for the 'dysphagia for liquids' subscale. The DYMUS questionnaire was found to be an easy and reliable tool for detecting dysphagia and also for the preliminary selection of patients requiring more specific instrumental analyses, and those suitable for aspiration prevention programmes.
Subject(s)
Deglutition Disorders/diagnosis , Disability Evaluation , Multiple Sclerosis/complications , Surveys and Questionnaires , Adolescent , Adult , Aged , Child , Deglutition Disorders/complications , Factor Analysis, Statistical , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Multiple Sclerosis/classification , Reproducibility of Results , Severity of Illness Index , Young AdultABSTRACT
BACKGROUND, AIMS: Toothbrush filaments with rounded ends allow for efficient removal of bacterial plaque and are less harmful to periodontal tissues than non-rounded bristles. The aim of this research was to evaluate the % of rounded filaments considered to be of acceptable quality in different toothbrush brands and to determine whether there is a standardization of quality, as manufacturers claim. METHOD: Brushes tested included 2 samples of medium-hard nylon or tynex toothbrushes from 31 various types found on the retail market in Italy. Tufts from the same position on the toothbrush head were removed and examined under a stereomicroscope, utilizing methods which did not alter the physical properties of the filaments. In 4 of the 31 toothbrush brands tested, more than 50% of the filaments appeared rounded, in 19 of them, between 11.9% and 40.5% and in 8 brands between 0% and 7%. RESULTS: Differences were found in the number and disposition of filaments among different brands and even within the same toothbrush brand. CONCLUSION: The results appear to indicate that a large % of toothbrushes on the retail market do not meet acceptable quality criteria.
Subject(s)
Toothbrushing/instrumentation , Dental Plaque/therapy , Equipment Design , Humans , Microscopy , Nylons , Quality Control , Surface Properties , Toothbrushing/standardsABSTRACT
Personal experience with 75 consecutive cases of terminolaterale oesophagojejunal anastomosis by EEA Stapler is reported. A total of 6 intraoperative technical problems were encountered (8%) and consisted either of incomplete suturing of the anastomosis or stapling of the jejunal wall. Postoperative radiology revealed 5 dehiscences (6.6%) and 1 stenosis (1.33%). One patient with dehiscence died (1.33%) of septic complications. One dehiscence of the afferent jejunal stump and minor pleuropulmonary complications were observed in 3 cases. After a brief review of the literature, it is concluded that oesophagojejunal anastomosis by EEA Stapler produces a low incidence of postoperative complications such as the dehiscence, stenosis or bleeding.
