SEM evaluation of root canal dentin morphology after Ni-Ti instrumentation.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare, through scanning electron microscope (SEM), the ability of four Ni-Ti rotary instrument systems in shaping root canal walls and their ability in removing smear layer and dentin debris.

Methods: Forty-six extracted single-rooted human teeth were divided into four groups and prepared to size 35 (Alpha System, FlexMaster, MFile) or 30 (NRT files). Irrigation was carried out with NaOCl and EDTA.

Ensuring quality nursing education in community-based settings.

With the shift to more nursing practice occurring in community settings, nurse educators are seeking ways to guarantee a quality education in community settings. The authors describe one nursing student's activities at a community health center, reflecting the movement toward a community-based curriculum at the University of Hawaii School of Nursing.

Comparison of performance of final-year students from three Australian medical schools.

Between 1984 and 1986, 888 final-year medical students from The Universities of Sydney, Western Australia and Newcastle took part in trial examinations that comprised multiple-choice questions, modified essay questions and a patient management problem. Differences in student performance among the schools were small. In 1984 and 1985, Newcastle students performed less well than did Sydney students on multiple-choice questions that were prepared by The University of Sydney, but there was no difference between the schools in 1986.

Patient satisfaction with primary-care consultations.

This study examines patients' perceptions of their latest consultation with a primary-care physician. A new questionnaire measured patients' views on their "ideal" physician prior to the visit and their satisfaction on similar dimensions immediately afterward. Ratings by the 503 eligible patients (87% response rate) showed that all 43 items were relevant and that a shortened version could also be used successfully.

Modified essay questions: are they worth the effort?

The method chosen for important examinations strongly influences the nature of student learning. The Newcastle Medical School in Australia developed a 5-year problem-based curriculum and adopted the Modified Essay Question (MEQ) as the main written instrument for assessing students' problem-solving skills. Even with the best of intentions the MEQ has been abused by its over-use, as shown in this review of annual assessment for years 1, 3 and 5 of the course.