Purpose : This study aimed to analyze the knowledge structure and research trends in robot-assisted rehabilitation through a keyword co-occurrence network analysis of articles that were published between 2015 and 2025. Methods : Bibliographic data were retrieved from the PubMed database by using search terms such as "robotics," "robot-assisted," "exoskeleton," and "rehabilitation." A total of 787 articles met the inclusion criteria. Author keywords were extracted and analyzed by using VOSviewer (version 1.6.20). A co-occurrence analysis was then performed by using the full counting method with a minimum occurrence threshold of five. After data refinement and synonym unification, 45 keywords were included in the final network, and categorized into thematic clusters. Finally, publication trends, keyword frequency, total link strength, and average publication year were examined. Results : The number of publications increased steadily over the study period, and peaked at 123 articles in 2025. Based on such data, seven clusters were identified: (1) assistive technology and quality of life; (2) stroke and spinal cord injury rehabilitation with neuroplasticity and neuromodulation; (3) pediatric cerebral palsy and gait training; (4) brain-computer interface and functional recovery; (5) upper extremity function and occupational therapy; (6) virtual reality and mental health; and (7) physiological monitoring technologies, including electromyography and functional near-infrared spectroscopy. "Robot-assisted therapy" showed the highest frequency (n= 283), followed by "stroke" (n= 254) and "rehabilitation" (n= 202), occupying central positions within the network. The temporal analysis indicated a transition from conventional clinical application studies to research that integrated neurophysiological assessment and advanced technologies. Recent keywords with higher average publication years included functional near-infrared spectroscopy (2025.0) and neuroplasticity (2023.2). Conclusion : Robot-assisted rehabilitation research has expanded rapidly over the past decade, and is evolving toward technology-integrated neurorehabilitation. These findings provide a structured overview of the field, and may inform future research directions that emphasize objective physiological validation and advanced technological convergence.

Purpose : This systematic review synthesized evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the clinical utility of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching on hamstring flexibility in adults with short hamstring syndrome. Specifically, we aimed to explore potential differences in treatment efficacy and generate hypotheses regarding tailored intervention directions based on the participants' underlying pathophysiological characteristics. Methods : A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science was conducted for RCTs published between January 2016 and January 2026. Eligible studies included adults with hamstring tightness receiving PNF (hold-relax or contract-relax) compared to static stretching, the abdominal hypopressive technique (AHT), or instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM). Primary outcomes included the straight leg raise (SLR), active knee extension (AKE), and toe-floor distance (TFD). Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results : Three RCTs (n= 106) were included, suggesting different response patterns across varying participant profiles. In older adults with age-related flexibility decline, both PNF contract-relax and static stretching showed improvements in flexibility-related outcomes compared with the control group, although the superiority of PNF over static stretching should be interpreted cautiously. In adults with simple hamstring shortening, a single PNF session acutely improved SLR and TFD, but these gains were not significantly superior to AHT. In patients with knee osteoarthritis, IASTM produced statistically greater improvements in AKE, pain severity, and physical function than PNF hold-relax. Conclusion : PNF stretching may improve hamstring flexibility in adults with hamstring tightness, particularly in individuals with simple flexibility restriction or age-related decline. However, the current evidence is limited by the small number of included studies, heterogeneous participant characteristics, and variation in intervention protocols and outcome measures. In one study involving patients with knee osteoarthritis, IASTM showed greater improvements in flexibility, pain, and function than PNF hold-relax, suggesting that structural or pain-related factors may influence the relative utility of PNF. Therefore, these findings should be interpreted as hypothesis-generating rather than definitive clinical recommendations, and further high-quality RCTs are required to clarify which patient profiles may benefit most from PNF stretching.

Purpose : This study aimed to identify regional disparities in physical therapist supply and turnover rates across 17 provinces in Korea and to examine their structural determinants using national macro-level data. Methods : Public data from the Korean Statistical Information Service and related national databases were collected from 17 provinces as of 2020. The dependent variables were the number of physical therapists per 100,000 population and the turnover rate. Independent variables included the aging rate, fiscal self-reliance ratio, proportion of clinic-based physical therapists, number of physical therapy universities, and average regional wage. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve, turnover decomposition analysis, hierarchical robust regression, and bootstrapping were applied. Results : The mean number of physical therapists per 100,000 population was 82.70, with a 2.3-fold regional gap, while the mean turnover rate was 26.44 %. Although the Gini coefficient for therapist supply was relatively low at 0.12, considerable disparities in absolute supply and turnover remained. The mean pure regional effect on turnover was statistically significant at 6.75 %. In hierarchical robust regression, the proportion of clinic-based employment showed a negative association with therapist supply. After wage adjustment, the associations of aging rate and the number of physical therapy universities with therapist supply showed directional patterns based on p-values; however, their BCa 95 % confidence intervals included zero, indicating limited statistical stability. For turnover, clinic-based employment showed a bootstrap-supported negative association in the initial model, whereas the effects of fiscal self-reliance and clinic-based employment were attenuated after wage adjustment. Conclusion : Physical therapist supply appeared relatively even at the macro provincial level; but absolute regional gaps in supply and high turnover rates coexisted. The observed associations suggest that regional labor-market conditions and institutional composition may be relevant to workforce distribution and turnover, but causal interpretation is limited by the cross-sectional design and small number of regional units. Future studies using longitudinal and more granular data are needed to verify these patterns.

Purpose : To systematically review evaluated the additive effects of virtual reality (VR) integrated with robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) on gait, balance, motor function, activities of daily living, and treatment acceptability in stroke survivors. The review also examined whether VR may address key limitations of RAGT alone, particularly passive participation and reduced patient engagement. Methods : A systematic search of five electronic databases was conducted for randomized controlled trials published up to February 2026. Eligible studies compared VR-integrated RAGT with RAGT alone, conventional physical therapy, or other sensory stimulation interventions in stroke survivors. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. Cohen's d was calculated to estimate the clinical magnitude of intervention effects. Results : Five randomized controlled trials involving 236 participants were included. Compared with conventional therapies, VR-integrated RAGT produced clinically meaningful improvements in gait speed, balance, lower-extremity motor function, and activities of daily living, with large effect sizes (d≥.80). VR integration also appeared to improve treatment acceptability. Compared with RAGT alone, VR-integrated RAGT was associated with a lower dropout rate (9.10 % vs 28.60 %) and longer active walking time (28.30 vs 24.00 minutes, d= 1.19). These findings suggest that ecologically enriched VR may reduce passive reliance during RAGT by increasing intrinsic motivation, cognitive engagement, and active participation. Conclusion : VR-integrating RAGT may provide clinically relevant additive benefits in stroke rehabilitation by promoting active engagement and supporting experience-dependent neuroplasticity. This multimodal approach may help transform repetitive mechanical stepping into a goal-directed motor relearning process. However, the current evidence remains limited by the small number of trials and modest sample size. Larger, methodologically rigorous studies are needed to confirm these effects and determine whether gains translate into improved community ambulation.

Purpose : This study investigated changes in extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle thickness and muscle activation during Eccenfit-based eccentric wrist extension according to grip type. Eccentric exercise is widely used in rehabilitation because of its effectiveness in improving muscle function and tendon adaptation. The ECRB is a key wrist extensor frequently involved in lateral epicondylitis; however, limited information is available regarding its morphological and neuromuscular responses during device-based eccentric exercise. Methods : This randomized crossover study included 30 healthy adults (15 males and 15 females). Participants performed eccentric wrist extension using straight and ball grips on the Eccenfit device. ECRB muscle thickness was assessed using ultrasonography, and muscle activation was measured using surface electromyography (%MVIC). Furthermore, wrist range of motion (ROM) was recorded. Repeated-measures ANOVA and paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis. Results : ECRB muscle thickness significantly decreased over time during eccentric contraction under both grip conditions (p<.05). Muscle activation (%MVIC) also significantly decreased from the initial to the final phase of contraction under both grip conditions (p<.001). However, no significant differences were observed between grip types in muscle thickness, muscle activation, or wrist ROM (p>.05). Comparable wrist ROM values were maintained throughout the eccentric task in both conditions. Conclusion : Eccenfit-based eccentric wrist extension induced significant decreases in ECRB muscle thickness and muscle activation over time under both grip conditions. Although no significant differences were observed between grip types, the findings suggest that the Eccenfit device may provide a consistent eccentric load regardless of grip configuration. These results may serve as foundational data for the standardization of eccentric rehabilitation and exercise programs for the wrist extensors, and they support future investigations of clinical populations with wrist extensor dysfunction, including individuals with lateral epicondylitis and related disorders.

Purpose : External trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS) has primarily targeted the ophthalmic branch (V1) and has demonstrated therapeutic potential in neurological and psychiatric conditions, including sleep-related disorders. However, stimulation of mandibular-branch-associated facial regions (V3), which may engage distinct peripheral sensory pathways and autonomic regulatory mechanisms, remains relatively underexplored. Furthermore, the immediate effects of V3-associated facial stimulation on subjective sleepiness and physiological responses have not been sufficiently investigated. Therefore, this exploratory pilot study examined the immediate effects of electrical stimulation of V3-associated facial regions on subjective sleepiness and selected physiological indices in healthy young adults. Methods : Thirty-six healthy adults in their 20s without insomnia were assigned to a non-equivalent sham control group (n= 18) or a stimulation group targeting V3-associated facial regions (n= 18). Subjective sleepiness, assessed using the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS), was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included heart rate variability indices (HRV: LF, HF, RMSSD, and TP) and electroencephalographic activity(EEG: alpha, beta, theta, and delta bands). Outcomes were measured before and after a 20-min intervention. Two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to assess group, time, and group×time effects. Results : KSS scores showed a significant group × time interaction (p= .010, partial 𝜂²= 0.17), indicating a greater increase in subjective sleepiness in the stimulation group than in the sham control group. RMSSD showed a significant main effect of time (p= .001, partial 𝜂²= 0.26), indicating an overall post-intervention change across both groups. No significant group-specific changes were observed in EEG parameters or other HRV indices. Conclusion : Electrical stimulation of V3-associated facial regions may influence subjective sleepiness in healthy young adults and suggests that this stimulation site could represent a potential target for modulating sleep-related states. However, the absence of consistent objective physiological changes indicates that the mechanisms underlying the observed subjective effects remain unclear. These findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the exploratory pilot design, small sample size, non-equivalent sham control condition, and the potentially sleep-promoting experimental environment. Future larger controlled studies incorporating rigorous sham procedures, improved blinding, and extended physiological monitoring are warranted to confirm these findings, clarify the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms, and determine the potential clinical relevance of V3-targeted eTNS for sleep modulation.

Purpose : Prior studies of hip extension exercises have primarily focused on the gluteus maximus and hamstrings, whereas the contribution of the adductor magnus and the co-activation patterns of hip flexor muscles remain less clearly understood. This study compared the activation of agonist muscles (gluteus maximus [Gmax], biceps femoris [BF], and adductor magnus [AM]) and antagonist muscles (rectus femoris [RF], sartorius [SAR], and tensor fasciae latae [TFL]) across three hip extension exercises with distinct biomechanical demands: prone hip extension (PHE), forward lunge (FL), and hip thrust (HT). Methods : Twenty-four healthy university students, 12 males and 12 females without musculoskeletal disorders, participated in the study. Each participant performed PHE, defined as 15° hip extension in the prone position; FL, defined as a forward step with 90° knee flexion; and HT, defined as hip extension from a supine bridge position until the trunk and thighs were horizontally aligned. All exercises were performed using body weight only. Surface electromyography was recorded from the six target muscles during a 5-second isometric hold at the end-range of each exercise, and signals were normalized to maximal voluntary isometric contraction values. A two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance, followed by Bonferroni-corrected post hoc comparisons, was used to examine differences in muscle activation across exercises. Results : A significant exercise by muscle interaction was observed, indicating that muscle activation patterns differed according to the biomechanical demands of each exercise. Among the agonist muscles, Gmax and AM activation were significantly greater during PHE and HT than during FL, whereas BF activation was markedly greater during PHE than during both FL and HT. Among the antagonist muscles, RF, SAR, and TFL activation were significantly greater during FL than during PHE and HT. Conclusion : Agonist and antagonist muscles demonstrated distinct, exercise-specific activation profiles that varied according to the biomechanical demands of each hip extension exercise. These findings suggest that hip extension exercises should be selected according to the intended target muscle group rather than regarded as functionally interchangeable.

Purpose: Research on the combined application of ankle stabilization exercise programs and kinesio taping for amateur judoka with chronic ankle instability (CAI) is rare. This study aims to identify the specific and positive effects of performing dynamic stretching and a progressive ankle stabilization exercise program after applying kinesio taping on ankle instability, functional pain, and dynamic balance ability in amateur judoka with CAI and propose an effective field-based intervention for sports injury prevention and rehabilitation. Methods: This study included 40 amateur judoka with CAI who were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n= 20) or a control group (n= 20). The participants performed a common dynamic stretching program and a 3-phase progressive ankle stabilization exercise tailored to judo characteristics for 30 minutes daily, 5 times weekly, for 4 weeks. The participants in the experimental group self-applied kinesio taping following the standardized instructions and supervision of a physical therapist with over 4 years of clinical experience, whereas those in the control group exercised without taping. Measurements were performed before and after the 4-week intervention using the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) for instability, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) during lunges for dynamic pain, and the Y-Balance Test (YBT) for dynamic balance. Results: Participants in both groups exhibited statistically significant improvements in CAIT scores and significant reduction in dynamic VAS scores (p<.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups (p>.05). Regarding YBT, the participants in both groups showed significant improvements in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions (p<.05). Furthermore, intergroup comparisons of the change scores revealed that participants in the experimental group achieved significantly greater and more meaningful improvements than those in the control group in the anterior (p= .001), posteromedial (p= .021), and posterolateral (p= .005) directions (p<.05). Conclusion: Systematic dynamic stretching and progressive ankle stabilization exercises are highly effective primary interventions for improving ankle instability and functional pain in amateur judoka with CAI. Kinesio taping combined with these exercises is a critical mechanism to maximize dynamic balance by effectively supplementing proprioceptive sensory feedback, which is often deficient due to judo-specific demands. Therefore, kinesio taping combined with stabilization exercises may serve as a highly practical and effective intervention to enhance field-based rehabilitation and athletic performance for amateur judoka.

Purpose : This study examined the effects of foot angle and support surface stability on the hamstring-to-quadriceps activation ratio (H/Q ratio) during squats in adults with genu valgum and healthy controls. Because altered lower-extremity alignment may affect neuromuscular coordination and functional knee stability, identifying optimal squat conditions may provide evidence to guide effective rehabilitation and exercise interventions for individuals with genu valgum. Methods : Thirty adults were assigned to a genu valgum group (n= 15) or a control group (n= 15). The participants performed squats under four conditions combining two foot angles (0 ° and 15 ° of external rotation) and two support surfaces (a stable surface and a BOSU). Surface electromyography measured the activity of the rectus femoris and biceps femoris, and the H/Q ratio was calculated. A three-way mixed analysis of variance was conducted to assess the main effects of group, foot angle, and support surface and their interactions on the H/Q ratio. Results : The H/Q ratio was significantly higher on the BOSU than on the stable surface (p= .004) and higher with a 15 ° foot position than with a 0 ° foot angle (p= .029). The main effect of group was not significant (p= .082), but the group × surface (p= .035) and foot angle x surface (p= .049) interactions were significant. The highest H/Q ratio occurred with a 15 ° foot position on the BOSU, reflecting greater hamstring activation relative to quadriceps activation. Conclusion : Performing squats with a 15 ° externally rotated foot position on an unstable surface effectively increased the H/Q ratio, indicating improved neuromuscular coordination and knee stability. These findings suggest that adjusting foot angle and surface stability may improve lower-extremity muscle coordination during squats in adults with genu valgum and may inform the developing of rehabilitation programs for this population.

Purpose : This study examined the effects of 9-point sensory discrimination training on the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), 9-point tactile localization error rate, and pressure pain threshold (PPT) in individuals with chronic nonspecific neck pain. Methods : Twenty participants were randomly assigned to experimental (n= 10) and control (n= 10) groups. Both groups received 45 tactile stimuli per session over a 3×3 grid on the posterior neck, three times weekly for 4 weeks. The experimental group identified stimulus locations and received immediate feedback, whereas the control group received stimulation without localization responses or feedback. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention and presented as medians and interquartile ranges. Within-group changes were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and between-group differences in change scores using the Mann-Whitney U test. Holm adjustment was applied separately to the three non-PPT outcomes and five PPT sites. Between-group effect sizes were estimated using Cliff's 𝛿 with bootstrapped 95 % confidence intervals. Results : After Holm adjustment, NDI decreased significantly in both groups (experimental, p= .015; control, p= .022), with a greater reduction in the experimental group (p= .016; Cliff's 𝛿= -0.73, 95 % CI= -0.98~-0.36). NPRS and tactile localization error rate decreased numerically in the experimental group, but neither within-group change remained significant (both p= .057). Between-group differences in change scores were not significant for NPRS (p= .179) or tactile localization error rate (p= .074). No PPT site showed significant within-group changes or between-group differences in change scores. Conclusion : Compared with tactile stimulation alone, 4 weeks of 9-point sensory discrimination training was associated with a greater reduction in neck disability. However, improvements in pain intensity, tactile localization ability, and mechanical pain sensitivity were not confirmed after adjustment for multiple comparisons. These findings warrant verification in adequately powered randomized controlled trials with allocation concealment, assessor blinding, and long-term follow-up.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) applied to the thoracolumbar fascia and hamstring fascia in individuals with nonspecific low back pain, and to examine its effects on fascial thickness, functional disability, and pain reduction. Methods : A total of 43 participants with nonspecific low back pain were enrolled in this study. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization was applied for approximately 5 minutes per session, three times per week for four weeks. Fascial thickness was measured using an ultrasound imaging device (Veneu 50, GE Healthcare, UK) at three time points: before the intervention, after 2 weeks, and after 4 weeks of intervention. Functional disability and pain were assessed before and after the intervention. Paired t-tests were used to analyze changes in functional disability and pain, and repeated measurements of fascial thickness were compared across time points. Result : Comparisons of measurements obtained before the intervention, after 2 weeks, and after 4 weeks revealed significant decreases in the thickness of both the thoracolumbar fascia and hamstring fascia over time (p<.05). In addition, lumbar functional disability and pain scores significantly decreased after the intervention (p<.05). The main effect of the instrument surface was not significant (p>.05). Although a possible interaction between intervention period and instrument surface was observed in some analyses, the results were insufficient to conclude the clear superiority of a specific instrument surface. Conclusion : The results of this study demonstrated that instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization produced positive changes in fascial thickness, lumbar functional disability, and pain in individuals with nonspecific low back pain. However, no clear superiority was confirmed according to the instrument surface or application site. Therefore, the findings should be interpreted as supporting the clinical applicability of IASTM rather than demonstrating the superiority of a specific instrument surface or application site. Future studies should include a control group and assessor blinding to further clarify the effects and mechanisms of IASTM.

Purpose : This study aimed to compare the effects of Kinesio taping combined with treadmill training (KTT) and Mulligan taping combined with treadmill training (MTT) on static and dynamic balance, ankle function, and fall efficacy in patients with chronic stroke. Methods : In this randomized controlled trial, twenty-two patients with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to either the KTT group (n= 11) or the MTT group (n= 11). Both groups received treadmill training combined with the assigned ankle taping intervention for 30 minutes per session, five sessions per week, over a six-week period. Static balance under eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions, dynamic balance using the Timed Up and Go test, ankle function using the Foot and Ankle Disability Index, and fall efficacy using the Falls Efficacy Scale-International were evaluated at baseline and immediately after the intervention. Results : Both groups showed significant improvements in static balance under eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions (p<.05). The MTT group demonstrated greater improvement in static balance with eyes open compared to the KTT group (p<.05), while no significant between-group difference was found in the eyes-closed condition. Dynamic balance significantly improved in both groups (p<.05), with greater improvement observed in the KTT group (p<.05). Ankle function significantly improved only in the KTT group (p<.05), and between-group comparison revealed greater improvement in the KTT group (p<.05). Fall efficacy significantly improved in both groups (p<.05), with greater improvement in the KTT group (p<.05). Conclusion : Both interventions were effective in improving balance in patients with chronic stroke. Mulligan taping was more effective for static balance, whereas Kinesio taping showed greater benefits for dynamic balance, ankle function, and fall efficacy. These findings highlight the importance of selecting taping methods based on rehabilitation goals.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the effects of unstable surface-based dual-task training on ankle function, dynamic postural control, and lower extremity function in adults with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Methods : Twenty-four adults with chronic ankle instability participated in this study. All participants performed unstable surface-based dual-task training three times per week for four weeks. The training included lunge, wall toss, and step-up and down exercises performed on a BOSU ball while completing an additional motor task. Lunge and step-up and down exercises were performed for one minute for three sets, whereas the wall toss exercise consisted of three sets of 10 repetitions each. Ankle function was assessed using the Cumberland ankle instability tool (CAIT) and the weight-bearing lunge test (WBLT). Dynamic postural control was evaluated using the Y-balance test (YBT), and lower extremity function was assessed using the single-hop test (SHT). All outcome measures were evaluated before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using a paired t-test, with α= 0.05. Results : After the four-week intervention, significant improvements were observed in all measured variables. CAIT scores increased from 17.12±5.52 to 20.58±5.53 points, and WBLT values increased from 9.97±3.08 to 10.67±3.15 cm. SHT values increased from 75.33±35.33 to 97.63±39.37 cm, while the YBT composite score increased from 78.49±10.82 to 85.42±10.36 %. Additionally, anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral reach distances in the YBT increased after the intervention. All pre- and post-intervention differences were statistically significant (p<.05). Conclusion : These findings suggest that unstable surface-based dual-task training may be associated with improvements in self-reported ankle function, weight-bearing ankle dorsiflexion, dynamic postural control, and lower extremity functional performance in adults with chronic ankle instability. Therefore, these findings indicate the potential clinical applicability of unstable surface-based dual-task training as a rehabilitation intervention for adults with chronic ankle instability; however, further randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Purpose : This study aimed to verify the effects on grip strength, concentration, agility, and quality of life of community-dwelling elderly individuals by designing and applying a hand-based exercise program that takes into account their physical characteristics. Methods : A total of 12 male and female elderly participants aged 75 years or older took part in the study. The study period was 8 weeks, with sessions held 3 times a week for 50 minutes each, consisting of 15 repetitions and 3 sets per session. Dumbbells, hand grippers, and resistance bands were used as measurement tools. For evaluation, a grip strength analyzer and FITTO were used to measure grip strength; the Trail Making Test (T.M.T) was used for concentration, and the Box and Block Test (B.B.T) was used for agility. Quality of life was measured using K-CASP-16. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 23, and frequency analysis was conducted. Cronbach's α coefficient was calculated to assess the reliability of the measurement tools, and Spearman correlation analysis was performed to examine the correlations between grip strength, concentration, agility, and quality of life. Finally, to examine the change between pre- and post-test, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was performed, with a significance level of p<.05. Results : Through exercise using small equipment, grip strength (muscle strength and quality) increased among community-dwelling older adults, and concentration and agility improved. Additionally, the quality of life sub-variables of control, autonomy, and self-actualization improved. There was a partial correlation between grip strength, muscle quality, and the quality of life sub-variables of autonomy and self-actualization. Conclusion : Through this study, it was confirmed that an exercise program utilizing small equipment was effective for the health of older adults in the community, improving grip strength, concentration, agility, and quality of life.

Purpose : This study compared temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function-specifically range of motion (ROM) and muscle strength-between individuals with forward head posture (FHP) and those with normal posture, given that cervical alignment may influence craniofacial biomechanics. Methods : Forty-six adults aged 20~30 years were recruited from a university setting and classified into a normal posture group (n= 23) and an FHP group (n= 23) based on craniovertebral angle (CVA), with FHP defined as a CVA <50 ° and normal posture as CVA≥50 °. TMJ ROM (opening, left excursion, right excursion, and protraction) was quantified using a 3D motion analysis system during active maximal movements in a standardized seated posture. TMJ muscle strength (opening, closing, left excursion, right excursion, and protraction) was assessed using a digital dynamometer during maximal voluntary contractions held for 3s, with three trials averaged per direction. Between-group differences were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test (α= .05). Results : The mean CVA was 54.03±4.86 ° in the normal posture group and 33.88±6.38 ° in the FHP group. TMJ ROM was lower in the FHP group than in the normal group across all tested directions, with significant between-group differences for opening, right excursion, and protraction (p<.01) as well as for left excursion (p<.03). TMJ muscle strength was also lower in the FHP group than in the normal group in all directions, and these between-group differences were statistically significant for opening, closing, left excursion, right excursion, and protraction (p<.01). Conclusion : Individuals with forward head posture demonstrate significantly reduced TMJ ROM and isometric muscle strength compared with those with normal posture. These findings indicate that assessment and management of TMJ dysfunction should consider cervical and craniofacial postural alignment, including forward head posture, as part of an integrated clinical approach.

Purpose : This study aimed to review and synthesize randomized controlled trials examining the effects of goal-directed training and functional training on gross motor function and activities of daily living in children with cerebral palsy. Methods : This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the PRISMA 2020 statement and the Cochrane Handbook guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PEDro were searched through March 2025 without language or date restrictions. Randomized controlled trials comparing goal-directed or functional training with conventional or child-centered interventions were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Random-effects models were used to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Results : Five randomized controlled trials involving 301 children with cerebral palsy were included. The mean PEDro score was 7.60±0.55, indicating good methodological quality, although performance bias was present in all studies. Goal-directed and functional training produced large but statistically nonsignificant pooled effects on gross motor function (SMD= 1.27, 95 % CI= -0.51~3.05, p= .163; three studies) and activities of daily living (SMD= 0.99, 95 % CI= -0.18~2.16, p= .096; four studies). Heterogeneity was very high for both outcomes, largely because comparison interventions included active, goal-oriented, or family-centered components. Certainty of evidence for both outcomes was very low. Conclusion : Goal-directed and functional training produced large effect sizes favoring improvements in gross motor function and activities of daily living. However, the effects were not statistically significant, and certainty of evidence was very low. This lack of significance may reflect the active nature of comparison interventions rather than an absence of effect. Clinicians may consider incorporating these approaches into rehabilitation, but high-quality trials using no-treatment or purely conventional control groups are needed.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate factors associated with social networking service (SNS) addiction tendency among physical therapy students in the Gwangju area, focusing on their general characteristics and physical activity levels. Methods : A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 497 physical therapy students enrolled at four universities in Gwangju, Korea. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. General characteristics, including sex, academic year, residence type, data collection method, SNS use, sleep duration, and regular exercise, were assessed. SNS addiction tendency and physical activity levels were assessed using the Social Networking Service Addiction Proneness Scale and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form, respectively. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA with Scheffé's post-hoc tests, Spearman's rank correlation analysis, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Statistical significance was set at .05. Results : SNS addiction tendency differed significantly by sex, academic year, residence type, data collection method, regular exercise, SNS type, daily SNS usage time, and physical activity levels. SNS addiction tendency was positively correlated with daily SNS usage time and negatively correlated with age and physical activity levels. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that daily SNS usage time was the strongest correlation to SNS addiction tendency. Female sex, first-year academic status, and commuting status were also significant association with SNS addiction tendency. In the univariate analysis, physical activity levels were significantly associated with SNS addiction tendency but were not independently associated after controlling for other variables. Conclusion : The findings suggest that SNS addiction tendency among physical therapy students is more closely related to SNS use behavior than with physical activity levels. Therefore, strategies aimed at promoting healthy SNS use should focus on improving self-regulation of SNS usage and implementing targeted interventions tailored to student's characteristics.

Purpose : This study investigated the effects of a 12-week elastic band exercise program on grip strength, metabolic syndrome risk factors, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in adolescents with sarcopenic obesity. Methods : Twenty male middle school students with sarcopenic obesity were randomly assigned to an exercise group (EG; n= 10) or a control group (CG; n= 10). Sarcopenic obesity was defined as a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 85th percentile for age and sex and grip strength below 70 % of the age-specific mean or at or below the 25th percentile. The EG participated in a supervised elastic band exercise program for 30 minutes per session, five times per week for 12 weeks, while the CG maintained their usual lifestyle without structured exercise. Grip strength, waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), glucose, insulin, and IGF-1 were measured before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA and paired t-tests. Results : Significant time×group interactions were observed for waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and glucose (p<.05). The EG showed significant reductions in waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and triglycerides, as well as a significant increase in grip strength (p<.05). Diastolic blood pressure showed only a significant time effect without a significant interaction. In contrast, the CG exhibited significant increases in triglycerides and glucose (p<.05). No significant interaction effect was found for IGF-1, although a slight increase was observed in the EG and a decrease in the CG. Conclusion : A 12-week elastic band exercise program effectively improved grip strength and several metabolic syndrome risk factors in adolescents with sarcopenic obesity. However, its effect on IGF-1 remains inconclusive. These findings suggest that elastic band exercise may be a practical and beneficial intervention for this population.

Purpose : Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are multifactorial conditions characterized by masticatory muscle asymmetry and restricted maximum mouth opening (MMO). Given the biomechanical integration of the craniocervical-mandibular system, this study compared the clinical effects of direct temporomandibular joint (TMJ) range of motion (ROM) exercises versus indirect McKenzie and cervical isometric exercises on masseter muscle thickness asymmetry, MMO, and muscle tone in patients with TMD. Methods : Thirty adults diagnosed with TMD were randomly assigned to three groups (n= 10 each): a TMJ ROM exercise group, a McKenzie and cervical isometric exercise group, and a control group. The experimental groups received physical therapy interventions three times per week for four weeks. Measurements were evaluated at baseline, mid-intervention (2 weeks), and post-intervention (4 weeks). MMO was assessed using a digital vernier caliper. Masseter muscle thickness asymmetry was quantified via ultrasonography, and muscle tone was measured using a MyotonPRO device. Data were analyzed using one-way and repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. Results : Following the 4-week intervention, both experimental groups demonstrated a statistically significant increase in MMO and a substantial reduction in masseter muscle thickness asymmetry compared to baseline values (p<.05), while the control group showed no significant changes. At 4 weeks, both experimental groups exhibited significantly reduced asymmetry compared to the control group (p<.05), with no significant difference between the two interventions. No significant intra- or inter-group differences were observed in masseter muscle tone across the measured periods (p>.05). Conclusion : Both direct TMJ ROM exercises and indirect craniocervical stabilization (McKenzie and cervical isometric exercises) are clinically effective interventions for restoring masticatory muscle symmetry and improving MMO in patients with TMD. Cervical-targeted stabilization training serves as a safe and viable alternative therapeutic strategy, particularly for patients sensitive to direct TMJ manipulation or experiencing severe local pain.

Purpose : This study aimed to compare the effects of myofascial release and self-stretching on balance ability in adults with forward head posture (FHP) and to investigate the clinical applicability of myofascial release as a conservative intervention. Methods : Twenty-four adults with forward head posture participated in this randomized controlled study. Participants were randomly assigned to either the myofascial release group (n= 12) or the self-stretching group (n= 12). Both groups received interventions for 4 weeks, and measurements were performed before intervention, at 2 weeks, and at 4 weeks. The outcome measures included the visual analog scale (VAS), craniovertebral angle (CVA), limits of stability (LOS), static balance test (SBT) sway distance and sway area, and Y-balance test (YBT) composite reach distance. A two-way repeated measures analysis of variance was performed to examine the effects of time, group, and time-by-group interactions. Bonferroni post-hoc tests were conducted for variables showing significant interaction effects. Results : The myofascial release group demonstrated significant improvements in LOS in all directions (forward, backward, left, and right), with significant time-by-group interaction effects (p<.001). In the static balance test, sway distance and sway area significantly decreased in the myofascial release group, indicating improved postural stability. The time-by-group interaction effect was significant for sway area (p= .001). In the Y-balance test, both groups showed improvements in composite reach distance; however, the pattern of change over time was greater in the myofascial release group (p<.001). Conclusion : Both myofascial release and self-stretching had positive effects on postural control and balance function in adults with forward head posture. In particular, myofascial release showed significant improvements in limits of stability and static balance ability, indicating its potential as a conservative intervention for enhancing postural control and balance function in individuals with forward head posture.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 4-week thoracic mobility exercise program-performed under bodyweight, resistance, and unstable surface conditions-on functional movement of novice golfers across three measurement time points (baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks). Methods : Thirty-nine young adult novice golfers without prior regular golf experience were randomly assigned to a bodyweight exercise group (n= 13), a resistance exercise group (n= 13), or an unstable-surface exercise group (n= 13). All participants underwent a 4-week intervention consisting of thoracic mobility exercises performed three times per week (30 minutes per session). Functional movement was evaluated using three screening tests: seated thoracic rotation, latissimus dorsi flexibility, and overhead deep squat, each scored dichotomously (0 or 1 point). Measurements were taken at baseline (0 weeks), 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) (α= .05). Results : The repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of time for seated thoracic rotation (F= 16.28, p<.001, η p²= 0.48) and overhead deep squat (F= 9.35, p<.001, η p²= 0.20), indicating marked improvements across all groups over the 4-week period. However, no significant time effect was found for latissimus dorsi flexibility (F= 2.16, p>.05, η p²= 0.05). For all measured variables, main group effects and time-by-group interaction effects were not statistically significant (p>.05). Conclusion : The 4-week thoracic mobility exercise intervention significantly improved seated thoracic rotation and overhead deep squat performance of novice golfers. However, the mechanical conditions (bodyweight, resistance, or unstable surface) did not produce significantly different outcomes. Thus, consistent, repetitive practice of thoracic mobility movements plays a primary role in enhancing functional movement compared to specific exercise surface or external load conditions.

Purpose : To examine the association between employment type (regular vs. non-regular) and unmet dental care among Korean adults, and to explore whether differences in utilization of dental care reflect structural labor conditions such as employment instability, limited access to leave, and inadequate welfare benefits. Methods : Data from 47,693 Koreans ≧19 years from eight years of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Unmet dental care was defined as the need for dental treatment but not receiving it within the past year. Employment type was classified as regular or non-regular. Socio-demographic variables (age, education, income, and marital status) and health-related factors (consumption of alcohol, smoking, tooth brushing, and systemic disease) were included as covariates. All the analyses were performed using a complex sample design. Complex sample cross-tabulation and logistic regression analyses were performed, and the results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Results : The prevalence of unmet dental care was significantly higher among non-regular workers (35.8 %) compared to regular workers (30.3 %). In the unadjusted model, non-regular workers were more likely to have unmet dental care (OR, 1.281; 95 % CI, 1.182~1.389; p<.001). After adjusting for covariates, the association remained significant (OR, 1.167; 95 % CI, 1.046~1.302; p= .006). Conclusion : Non-regular employment was significantly associated with a higher likelihood of unmet dental care. This finding suggests that disparities in the utilization of dental are not solely explained by economic factors, but they are also closely related to structural labor conditions, including unstable working hours, limited leave, and insufficient institutional protection. Therefore, policy efforts should address these structural barriers to improve access to dental care and reduce inequalities in oral health.

Purpose : This study investigated the effects of systemic diseases and health management behaviors on the experience of periodontal disease treatment among Korean adults and identified factors associated with receiving periodontal treatment. Methods : Data from the 8th and 9th Korea national health and nutrition examination survey (KNHANES, 2019~2023) were combined for analysis. A total of 17,292 adults were included in the study. General characteristics, health management behaviors, systemic diseases, and oral health-related factors were examined as independent variables, while experience of periodontal disease treatment was used as the dependent variable. Complex sample cross-tabulations and logistic regression analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics version 21.0, and statistical significance was set at p<.05. Results : Significant differences in periodontal disease treatment experience were observed according to age, sex, household income, health insurance type, private insurance status, smoking, and alcohol consumption. In addition, participants with systemic diseases, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes, showed higher rates of periodontal treatment experience than those without these conditions. Oral health-related symptoms such as chewing discomfort, toothache, and difficulties in chewing and speaking were also significantly associated with periodontal disease treatment experience. Logistic regression analysis indicated that both systemic health conditions and health management behaviors were significant predictors of receiving periodontal treatment after controlling for potential confounding variables. Conclusion : Systemic diseases and health management behaviors were identified as important factors influencing periodontal disease treatment experience among Korean adults. These findings suggest that integrated approaches addressing both systemic health and oral health behaviors are necessary to improve periodontal health outcomes. Furthermore, continuous oral health education, preventive interventions, and regular dental checkups should be promoted, particularly for individuals with chronic diseases, to facilitate early detection and timely treatment of periodontal disease.

Purpose : This study aimed to apply a blended learning-based convergence teaching model combining 'Discovery Learning' and 'Peer Instruction' to adult learners in an occupational therapy department and to empirically verify its educational effects on self-directed learning ability and the structural relationship among its sub-factors. Methods : A one-group pretest-posttest design was employed with 13 first-year adult learners enrolled in the occupational therapy department of a junior college in 'B' metropolitan city. The convergence teaching method consisted of three stages: LMS pre-learning, face-to-face pair discussion, and field-connected discovery learning over 15 weeks. A paired t-test was used to analyze the changes in self-directed learning ability (learning planning, learning execution, and learning evaluation) before and after the intervention, and Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to identify the relationship among sub-factors. Results : After applying the teaching model, the total score of self-directed learning ability increased (146.62→157.38), but the difference was not statistically significant. In the sub-domain analysis, positive increases in average scores were observed in 7 sub-factors, excluding a slight decrease in 'basic self-management'. In addition, strong positive correlations were found among all three sub-domains of self-directed learning ability: learning planning, learning execution, and learning evaluation. Conclusion : Although limited in statistical significance, the convergence teaching model demonstrated its potential as a practical andragogy model that stimulates metacognition and self-directedness by utilizing adult learners' life experiences and actively reconstructing knowledge within clinical contexts. However, considering the multiple roles adult learners perform, future instructional designs must be accompanied by support systems to alleviate the burden of self-management. This study is significant in establishing an empirical foundation for teaching and learning models tailored to strengthen the clinical competencies of adult learners in undergraduate healthcare programs.

Purpose : This integrative review aimed to examine the characteristics and effectiveness of aromatherapy interventions for community-dwelling older adults in South Korea. It also explored the potential application of evidence-based aromatherapy interventions to promote older adults' health and provide foundational evidence for community nursing practice and health promotion programs. Methods : This review followed Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) five-stage framework. Studies published between January 2010 and December 2024 were identified by searching three Korean databases (RISS, KISS, and DBpia) using combinations of the keywords " community-dwelling older "adults", "aroma", "aromatherapy", "intervention", and "program". The methodological quality was independently assessed by two reviewers using the MMAT 2018. Studies were categorized by design and intervention type (massage, inhalation, or combined), and data on intervention characteristics, essential oils, frequency, duration, and outcomes were extracted and synthesized. Results : The studies comprised two randomized controlled trials, seven quasiexperimental studies, and two one-group pre-post studies. Massage and combined interventions were the most common intervention types across the studies(36.36 % each), followed by inhalation (27.27 %). Aromatherapy demonstrated positive effects across multiple domains. Physical outcomes included improved sleep quality, reduced pain, enhanced physical function, and reduced nocturia. Physiological outcomes, including blood pressure, heart rate, and quantitative electroencephalography, were assessed in a limited number of studies, with improvements reported inconsistently; for example, one study found no significant between-group difference in blood pressure. Psychological outcomes included reduced stress, depression, and anxiety, as well as improved coping ability. Lavender, marjoram, bergamot, and sweet orange were the most frequently used essential oils. Conclusion : Aromatherapy may be a feasible complementary intervention for improving specific physical and psychological outcomes among communitydwelling older adults. However, the evidence remains limited by heterogeneous intervention protocols, small sample sizes, and a predominance of nonrandomized designs. Future research should employ standardized protocols, rigorous randomized controlled designs, and objective outcome measures.

Purpose : This study examined the short-term effects of an inquiry-based, arts-integrated mathematics culture program on mathematics-related attitudes and psychosocial health indicators among upper elementary school students. It also identified factors associated with post-intervention mathematics confidence, mathematics anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Methods : A one-group pretest-posttest design was used. Participants were 182 fifth- and sixth-grade students from fourteen elementary schools. The program integrated mathematics with music and visual arts and emphasized exploration, artistic expression, creativity, and sensory-cultural engagement. Participants completed measures of mathematics confidence, mathematics anxiety, negative automatic thoughts, depression, and self-esteem before and after the program. Paired t-tests and Cohen's d were used to examine pre-post changes. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with post-test mathematics confidence, mathematics anxiety, depression, and self-esteem after accounting for baseline scores and selected participant characteristics. Results : Mathematics confidence increased significantly after the program, particularly performance- and attitude-related confidence. Negative automatic thoughts and their subdomains, including depressive cognition, social anxiety cognition, and physical threat cognition, decreased significantly. Depression also decreased significantly, whereas self-esteem increased significantly. Overall mathematics anxiety and its subdomains showed no significant changes. In the regression analyses, the corresponding pre-test score was the strongest predictor of each post-test outcome. In addition, pre-test mathematics anxiety, mathematics confidence, negative automatic thoughts, and depression were significantly associated with selected post-test outcomes, although the patterns varied across models. Conclusions : The findings suggest that the program may support mathematics confidence and psychosocial health among upper elementary school students. However, because of the one-group design and short follow-up period, causal interpretations should be made with caution. Controlled longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the program's effectiveness and determine whether the observed changes are sustained over time among students.

Purpose : Despite growing clinical use of music in Korea, no study has systematically mapped its application across medical professions. This study aimed to analyze how music-based interventions, including music listening and music therapy, have been conceptualized and applied by Korean medical professionals, using a legally defined scope and a reproducible text-mining procedure. Methods : "Medical professionals" were operationally defined as the seven professions legally recognized under the medical service act and the medical technologists act: physicians, dentists, Korean medicine doctors, midwives, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. Korean-language journal articles published between January 2016 and June 2026 were retrieved from the Korea citation index using 13 music-related terms. A multi-stage bibliographic filtering procedure combining journal names, author affiliations, and official subject classifications yielded a final corpus of 40 articles, verified through full-text review. Term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) weighting and Ward's hierarchical clustering identified thematic clusters, which were qualitatively synthesized through a full review of all abstracts. Results : Nursing accounted for the largest share of the corpus (40.00 %). Five thematic clusters emerged: stress and anxiety relief in acute medical situations (37.50 %), occupational stress and integrative or complementary approaches (15.00 %), neurological disease and exercise rehabilitation (20.00 %), programs for community-dwelling older adults (7.50 %), and non-pharmacological interventions for dementia (20.00 %). Interventions meeting the criteria for relationship-based music therapy were rarely identified; most reflected passive listening consistent with music medicine. A quality assessment of domestic dementia-related meta-analyses reported a mean AMSTAR 1 (a measurement tool to assess systematic reviews) score of 6.16 out of 11, with none rated as high quality. Conclusion : Music-based interventions among Korean medical professionals are concentrated in acute, procedure-related contexts and largely take the form of music medicine rather than music therapy. Current evidence supports low-risk applications but remains insufficient for deeper psychological or rehabilitative goals, for which institutional referral protocols and staff education are recommended.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the influence of knowledge about older adults, attitudes toward aging, and human rights awareness on ageism among nursing students, and to identify factors influencing ageism toward older adults in the context of a rapidly aging society. Methods : This study used a cross-sectional descriptive design. A total of 193 nursing students from a university in South Korea participated in this study. Knowledge about older adults was measured using the Facts on Aging Quiz I; attitudes were assessed using the Aging Semantic Differential Scale; human rights awareness was evaluated using the modified Human Rights Awareness Scale; and ageism was measured using the Korean Ageism Scale. Data were analyzed in SPSS 22.0, using descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression. Results : The mean scores were 12.13±3.36 for knowledge, 80.84±13.28 for attitudes, 92.35±15.32 for human rights awareness, and 72.33±11.28 for ageism. The ageism score, with higher scores indicating lower ageism, showed significant positive correlations with knowledge (r= 0.15, p= .037), attitudes (r= 0.15, p= .033), and human rights awareness (r= 0.49, p<.001). Hierarchical regression analysis, after controlling for marital status and cohabitation experience with older adults, revealed that human rights awareness was the strongest predictor of anti-ageistic tendency (𝛽= 0.48, p<.001). Knowledge and attitudes were not significant predictors in the final model. The final model (Model 2) explained 35.0 % of the variance in ageism toward older adults (Adj. R² = 0.30). Conclusion : These findings suggest that human rights awareness is closely associated with lower ageism among nursing students and is a more influential related factor than knowledge or general attitudes. Therefore, nursing education should incorporate human rights-based and dignity-centered approaches to promote age-friendly and non-discriminatory nursing practices.

Purpose : This study aimed to identify the levels of communication skills, nurse-physician collaboration, nursing work environment, and patient safety nursing activities among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses. It comprehensively examined correlations among these key variables and identified major factors influencing patient safety nursing activities to provide empirical evidence for improving ICU patient safety. Methods : This descriptive survey study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. Participants were 138 clinical ICU nurses who had worked in their current ICU for at least nine months at one tertiary general hospital and one general hospital located in B metropolitan city. Collected data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, Scheffé test, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis with SPSS 27.0 software. Results : The mean scores were 3.84±0.59 for communication skills, 3.63±0.46 for nurse-physician collaboration, 3.67±0.57 for nursing work environment, and 4.52±0.35 for patient safety nursing activities. Patient safety nursing activities differed significantly according to working unit (F= 5.60, p= .005). They were positively correlated with nurse-physician collaboration (r= 0.53, p<.001) and nursing work environment (r= 0.48, p<.001), but not with communication skills. The regression model was statistically significant (F= 29.50, p<.001). The significant influencing factor was nurse-physician collaboration (β= 0.39, p<.001). These variables explained 29.0 % of the variance in patient safety nursing activities. Conclusion : This study confirmed that nurse-physician collaboration is a key factor influencing ICU nurses' patient safety nursing activities. Therefore, institutional strategies reflecting ICU-specific characteristics are strongly required. Systematic educational support and safety management programs should be developed to strengthen healthcare professional collaboration, support nursing safety practices, and enhance patient safety in high-risk clinical settings. These findings provide basic evidence for designing tailored interventions. Further research across diverse hospitals is recommended to expand applicability.

Purpose : To systematically review the literature on the association of oral frailty and hypofunction with social isolation, loneliness, and social support in older adults and to provide evidence for future dental hygiene practice and community-based oral health promotion programs. Methods : DBPIA, RISS, KISS, and PubMed were systematically reviewed for studies published from January 2014 to March 2026. A total of 638 records were identified, and 10 studies met the predefined inclusion criteria after screening. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool, and studies were analyzed using the PEO framework, with older adults as the population, oral frailty and oral hypofunction as exposures, and social isolation, loneliness, and social support as outcomes. Results : All studies were observational, mostly cross-sectional. Oral frailty and hypofunction were generally associated with greater social isolation and loneliness, whereas social support was linked to better oral health and oral health behaviors. Poorer oral health and oral functional decline were also associated with reduced social participation and weaker social relationships. Overall, the findings suggest that oral health vulnerability in later life is associated with functional decline and poorer psychosocial well-being. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously because most studies were cross-sectional, and age criteria and measurement tools varied across studies. Conclusions : Oral frailty and hypofunction in older adults were associated with greater social isolation and loneliness, whereas social support appeared protective. These findings reveal that oral health in later life should be considered not only from a functional but also from social and emotional perspectives. Future oral health promotion strategies for older adults should incorporate interventions that address social isolation, loneliness, and support systems.

Purpose : This study aims to analyze the correlations among major satisfaction, job preparation stress, and depression in university students. It seeks to understand the impact of major satisfaction on job preparation stress and mental health, and to provide foundational data for effective career guidance and mental health promotion for university students. Methods : A survey was conducted from November 2025 to April 2026 with 233 university students from the Busan and Gyeongnam regions. The questionnaires included measures of major satisfaction, job preparation stress, and the Korean version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (K-CES-D). Collected data were analyzed statistically. Results : First, significant gender differences were found in the personal dimension of major satisfaction (p<.05). Second, analysis by academic year showed statistically significant differences in major satisfaction (p<.05) and depression (p<.05), with third-year students reporting the highest levels in both. Third, by division, significant differences were observed in major satisfaction (highest in Mechanical Engineering division), job preparation stress, and depression (both highest in Automotive Engineering division) (p<.05). Fourth, correlation analysis showed significant relationships between overall college life satisfaction and major satisfaction (r= -.502), major satisfaction and job preparation stress (r= -0.155), job preparation stress and depression (r= .190), and college life satisfaction and depression (r= 0.206). Conclusion : Major satisfaction plays a key role in alleviating the negative impacts of job preparation stress and depression among university students. Its effects vary depending on academic year, division, and overall college life satisfaction. Therefore, universities should strengthen psychological and emotional support programs and career counseling systems to enhance major satisfaction and reduce job preparation anxiety. The results of this study can serve as foundational data for developing effective intervention programs.