Medical and Biological Physics: The Foundation of Modern Medicine
Student: Arabboyeva Saidaxon Dilshodbek qizi
Kokand University Andijan branch
Faculty of Medicine and Stomatology
1st year student, Group 25_03
Phone number: +998 88 614 20 07
E-mail: saidakhonar@gmail.com
Abstract
This article discusses the importance of medical and biological physics in modern healthcare, emphasizing its role in diagnostics, therapy, and preventive medicine. It highlights how physical principles underlie many medical technologies and treatments, from imaging and radiation therapy to biomedical engineering. Understanding medical and biological physics helps healthcare professionals detect diseases early, enhance treatment effectiveness, and apply advanced technologies more efficiently.
Keywords: medical physics, biological physics, diagnostics, imaging, radiation, healthcare technology
Introduction
In recent decades, medicine has evolved rapidly through the integration of physical sciences. Medical and biological physics study the physical processes within living systems and their applications in diagnosis and treatment. Technologies such as X-ray imaging, ultrasound, laser therapy, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are all based on fundamental principles of physics.
Medical physics enables physicians to visualize internal organs non-invasively, measure physiological parameters accurately, and develop safer, more effective therapies. Therefore, physics forms the scientific foundation of modern medicine, bridging the gap between theory and clinical practice.
Methods
This article was developed using analytical and comparative methods to explore the relationship between physics and medicine.
Literature Review: Recent national and international scientific studies on medical and biological physics were analyzed.
Comparative Analysis: The efficiency of modern diagnostic techniques (MRI, X-ray, ultrasound) was compared based on physical mechanisms.
Systematic Approach: The connections between physical laws and physiological processes were examined, emphasizing their impact on diagnostics, treatment, and innovation.
The study utilized academic publications from 2019–2024, WHO reports, and materials from the European Society of Radiology.
Results
The findings reveal that medical and biological physics play a central role in every branch of modern medicine.
Radiology applies electromagnetic radiation for imaging bones and tissues.
Ultrasound diagnostics use sound waves to visualize soft tissues safely.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) employs magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed anatomical images.
Laser therapy accelerates tissue repair and reduces pain.
These technologies demonstrate how physics enables accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and continuous improvement in healthcare quality.
Discussion
Medical physics has become a key factor in the modernization of healthcare. Artificial intelligence combined with physical diagnostic tools — such as automated image analysis in MRI or CT scans — represents a major step toward precision medicine.
Furthermore, medical physicists ensure radiation safety, equipment calibration, and quality assurance in hospitals. Meanwhile, biological physics investigates processes such as ion exchange in cell membranes, blood flow hydrodynamics, and bioelectrical activity in the nervous system. Understanding these mechanisms supports the development of new pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
The integration of physics into medicine not only improves clinical outcomes but also fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, doctors, and researchers.
Conclusion
Medical and biological physics are the cornerstones of modern medicine. They provide the theoretical and practical basis for diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases using scientific precision. By mastering the laws of physics, healthcare professionals can utilize advanced technologies effectively and safely, enhancing both patient outcomes and the overall quality of care. Thus, including medical physics in medical education remains an essential component of training future physicians and researchers.
References
1. Karimov A. Fundamentals of Medical Physics, Tashkent, 2021.
2. Rasulov N. The Role of Biological Physics in Medicine, Uzbek Medical Journal, 2020.
3. Hall E. Radiobiology for the Radiologist. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2019.
4. Bushberg J.T. The Essential Physics of Medical Imaging. Wolters Kluwer, 2021.
5. World Health Organization (WHO). Medical Physics in Health Care, 2022.
6. European Society of Radiology Report, 2023.
7. Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Annual Health Report, 2024.
8. Khan M. Modern Approaches in Biomedical Physics. Springer, 2022.
First of all, published poet and contributor Tao Yucheng is still hosting a poetry contest, open to all readers of Synchronized Chaos Magazine.
Synchronized Chaos Poetry Contest: We seek short, powerful, imaginative, and strange poetry. While we welcome all forms of free verse and subject matter, we prefer concise work that makes an impact.
Guidelines: Submit up to five poems per person to taoyucheng921129@proton.me. Each poem should not exceed one page (ideally half a page or less). All styles and themes welcome. Deadline for submissions will be in early March.
Prizes: First Place: $50 Second Place: $10, payable via online transfer. One Honorable Mention. Selected finalists will be published in Synchronized Chaos Magazine.
Next, poet Yucheng Tao’s new chapbook, The Mirror Image of Death, has just been released from Alien Buddha Press! People can order it here.
Across poetry, fiction, essays, memoir, and scholarship, this issue asks what it means to live attentively: to create honestly, remember faithfully, love fully, and choose responsibility in an impermanent world.
Jacques Fleury honors the many contributions of Black Americans to society and argues that the United States still needs to celebrate Black History Month due to their lack of knowledge of essential history and context.
Sayani Mukherjee presents spring as both gentle and haunting, reminding us that loss and regrowth are both intimate parts of our experience. Berdirahmonova Shahlo Sherzod qizi expresses poignant longing for the return of joy and love in the spring. O’giloy Kucharova celebrates the social and natural renewal of spring as Christina Chin’s haikus evoke winter’s precarity and solitude. Brian Barbeito’s work dissolves boundaries and outlines in the dark of night and the way the rain falls everywhere, inspiring an open, receptive state of mind. His next piece evokes a chilly and aesthetically under-defined winter day.
Ma Yongbo’s wintry and tough-minded poetic cycle poses the question of what it means to keep creating when permanence and perfection may be impossible. Lan Xin’s pieces honor restraint, the diversity of life, and working with the natural rhythm of life’s seasons. Mykyta Ryzhykh calls attention to how both death and rebirth in nature bring us out of our ponderings and back to the present moment. Sterling Warner draws upon fresh and salt water and psychological and physical weather Linette Rabsatt’s poems take joy in letting go of the conscious mind and listening to the natural world as a source of inspiration. Joseph Ogbonna meditates on the stillness and inspiration of an early dawn. Gezim Basha, in work translated by Marjeta Rrapaj, celebrates tender love and living an authentic life. Yo’ldosheva Zinnura writes of the need to care for and consider our impact on the environment and climate.
Mehreen Ahmed’s work explores art, creativity, complicity, and displacement. Alan Catlin’s ekphrastic poetry crafts scenes of still life interrupted by violence and chaos. Bill Tope’s short story critiques immigration enforcement violence in the United States through the terror of one wrongly targeted victim. Kelly Moyer’s absurdist, provocative video speaks to the same topic as Leticia Garcia Bradford offers a local perspective and Pat Doyne brings strident satire to the issues of the day. Umid Najjari offers a poetic tribute to those who lost their lives in the Iranian revolution. Sungrue Han’s poems evoke alienation, dislocation, and collective and individual trauma. Mahbub Alam decries human greed and the destruction of other humans and the natural world and encourages care and respect. Virginia Aronson draws attention to modern crimes committed by government agents and by international criminal gangs, suggesting a comparison.
J.J. Campbell brings his signature blend of hard-earned cynicism and exhaustion. Scott C. Holstad snatches bits of sweetness and color from complex and artificial modern life. Türkan Ergör reminds us of our mortality and vulnerability to various human struggles. Like a wanderer tiptoeing through dimly lit rooms in a house, Carl Scharwath’s poetry moves from loss to relief to conscious acceptance of stillness. Allison Grayhurst’s poetic cycle sheds, releases, and re-forms visceral emotions. Dr. Prasanna Kumar Dalai’s work carries the quiet dignity of someone who feels deeply but speaks carefully.
Mesfakus Salahin’s work addresses the alchemical transformation of formless feeling into legible thought through poetry. Shakespeare Okuni’s poem highlights the role of ritual and performance in meaning-making. Alex Johnson sets out a manifesto for artistic openness and an aesthetic that welcomes diverse sources of inspiration. Stephen Jarrell Williams evokes life, innocence, joy, and energy in his restrained pieces. Rus Khomutoff’s piece is at once overabundant, technical, and tender, perhaps more intended to be entered into than understood.
Abbas Yusuf Alhassan’s ars poetica explores the various forms poetry takes in his mind and how inspiration hits him as an artist. Duane Vorhees probes desire, time, chance, and memory. Nurbek Norchayev meditates on nature, time, and the life of the soul. Michael Robinson’s essay is a lived testimony of fear, darkness, illness, strength, forgiveness, and survival. Maja Milojkovic speaks of her personal spirituality and closeness to God. Sarah Adeyemo also reaches for her faith for comfort and the strength to keep loving even through a time of desperation and grief. Patrick Sweeney’s one or two-line thoughts provoke head-scratching and evade easy answers. Texas Fontanella jumbles a variety of words and symbols into a static buzz. Grzegorz Wroblewski’s asemic pieces reflect a mind in motion, jumping and self-editing mid-thought from one idea to another.
Susie Gharib navigates the emotional landscape of power, voice, myth, and lived reality. Mark Young contributes a fresh set of altered technicolor Australian landscapes. Cristina Deptula observes and comments on Dianne Reeves Angel’s memoir of a creative life in film production, Every Restaurant Tells a Story.Federico Wardal celebrates the film legacy of Italian filmmaker Billy Wilder. Taylor Dibbert enjoys traveling despite occasional moments of personal embarrassment. Xo’jyozova Dildora looks to ecotourism as a way to sustainably strengthen local economies.
For travel in a more metaphorical sense, Abdugafforova Muslimaxon Akmalovna reviews Qobilon Shermatov’s fantastical children’s tale The Country Inside My Grandfather’s Stomach. This book addresses issues of personal character, as each person’s “interior” reflects who they are and how they behave.
Other authors look at individual and collective character and moral choice. Eva Petropoulou Lianou’s poems express her hopes for peace, understanding, compassion, and humanity. Gordana Saric echoes that hope, wishing for worldwide love, understanding, and reconciliation. Maftuna Sultonova reminds us of the infinite value and dignity of each person. Nigora Baxtiyorova analyzes infidelity as a theme in Uzbek literature. Xasanova Aziza Kumushbek qizi peers into even more Uzbek literature and finds a timeless warning about how one’s life and dignity matter even more than one’s reputation and fame. Journalist Elisa Mascia interviews Azerbaijani author Jakhongir Nomozov and he affirms the need for authors to master their craft and speak their truth regardless of passing fads or popularity. Solid work will stand the test of time.
Dr. Jernail S. Anand suggests that a complete education not only teaches technical skills but also how to be a decent human being. Kodirova Shakhzoda highlights the cultural importance of Uzbekistan’s cultural values of compassion, courtesy, respect for nature, and courage.
Dr. Barbaros İrdelmen mourns love lost to human and societal pettiness, and to death. Bill Tope and Doug Hawley co-present a tale of loss, guilt, and redemption. Mehrinoz Tursunova’s bittersweet love poem prepares for an impending separation. Eshmatova Marjona Kamol qizi outlines ways social service systems can intervene to support children from dysfunctional families. Nurboboyeva Dilshoda Nodir qizi evaluates the psychological effects of divorce on children and suggests ways to help them through the transition.
Dildoraxon Turg’unboyeva reflects on childhood memories and her love for her departed grandfather. Gulsevar Mirzamahmudova honors her hardworking migrant laborer father for his care and determination, reflecting on how she misses him.
Malohat Ahmadjonova expresses love and gratitude for the hard work and dedication of her parents, who made sure she dressed well and received an education. Mashrabxo’jayeva Feruzakhon offers gratitude for the steady love and care of her parents. Nurullayeva Nigora Nurmurod qizi’s poem expresses her love and care for her mother, who has given her so much. Ismoilova Sarvinoz reflects on how much her parents have loved her over time and how she wishes to return the favor as they age. Shafkat Aziz Hajam fondly remembers the freedom and wonder of childhood, made possible by his caring parents.
Islamova Dilnoza Khamidovna gives thanks for a caring and steady friend as Rukhshona Khamzayeva shares her gratitude for a dedicated teacher. Zarifaxon Holiboyeva reflects on missing her family and her classmates in a young student’s piece full of tender affection. Toshpulatova Mehribonu Sherbek qizi rejoices in the love of her sweet sister. Alisherova Hurmatoy reflects on the power of her lover’s kind words to calm her spirit. Graciela Noemi Villaverde draws on elegant nature-inspired imagery to express her love. Chinese academic Bai Gengsheng pays tribute to his loyal and hardworking wife, acknowledging that her steady support over many years made his accomplishments possible.
Aziza Xasanova compares waiting for the unfolding of love to allowing a fig tree to leaf out in its season. Lan Xin’s epic, mytho-romantic piece affirms the choice of embodied and temporal love over transcendence and divinity.
Ozodbek Narzullayev’s verse expresses adoration for his country as if it were his lover. Jahongirova Gulhayo Jahongirovna’s rhyming poem pays tribute to a man of deep loyalty, patriotism and integrity. Abduganiyev Shexrozbek discusses the inter-related nature of the Uzbek national concept, legal system, and spiritual values in shaping the culture.
Kudratova Nozima Bahromovna explores the narrative style of Uzbek writer To’gay Murod. Madina Jorayeva’s essay highlights the contributions of translator and critic Ozod Sharafiddinov to Uzbek and world heritage and literature. Shahnoza Ochildiyeva translates Ozod Sharafiddinov’s essay celebrating and analyzing the literary value of poet and translator Abdulhamid Sulaymon og‘li Cho‘lpon’s contributions to Uzbek literature. Nargiza Masharipova celebrates the cultural interchanges made possible by the migration of the world’s peoples. Sultonaliyeva Go’zaloy outlines some of the factors encouraging and driving migration. Ubaydullayeva Saodat celebrates the literary artistry and truth-telling of one of Uzbekistan’s greatest poets, Alexander Feinberg. Xayrullayeva Zahro suggests ways to preserve the high literary quality of the Uzbek language and not lose it to abbreviations and modernisms. Rizoqulova Parvina Ramzovna analyzes the relation between language and culture.
Munavvar Tlewbaeva speaks of the comfort she finds by reading books by authors who understand and write of her feelings. Odinaxon Qodirova highlights ways to encourage young people to read. Yusupboyeva Madina rejoices in the persistence of reading culture among young people. Turgunova Kh. suggests strategies for teachers to effectively communicate with young Generation Z students.
Karimova Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna suggests strategies for encouraging creative thinking in children. Jorabek Muhammadolimov raises awareness of how too much scrolling and flipping online can lead to difficulty concentrating. Choriyeva Oynur warns of the consequences of overuse of smartphones and the Internet. Roziboyeva Asilakhon speaks against digital surveillance and fear-driven self-censorship.
Isroilova Sarvinoz Maxmud qizi discusses how to use educational tools to teach young children mathematical concepts. Barnoxon Baxtiyorjon Yoqubova considers strategies for integrating physical play with learning arithmetic. Amirqulova Gulsevar discusses digital innovations in education. Daminova Sevinch Tuychi qizi highlights the enlightened wisdom and teaching of Uzbek children’s educator Abdulla Avloni. Lazokat Ortigaliyevna Pirmatova relates how participating in competitive mental arithmetic helped her to develop confidence and the ability to think on her feet.
Nilufar Ibroximova suggests how new Uzbek textbooks could be crafted and used to help young children develop critical thinking. Norquolova Madina highlights the value of learning a second language. Haydarova Mehribon outlines various methods for learning the Mandarin Chinese language, coupled with history and background of the tongue. Mansurova Shahnoza parses the finer points of verb conjugation in French as Xurramova Farangiz compares the process in French and Uzbek. Masharipova Sayyora compares proverbs in French and Uzbek and how they reveal cultural values. Nilufar Mo’ydinova outlines techniques for learning German through approaches from the field of translation. Najmiddinova Mekhrigul Najmiddin qizi delves into the intricacies of language translation. Abdurahimova Anora’s essay considers the impact of one’s first language on the process of learning a second language. Mengboyeva Baxtiniso Mamatqobilovna highlights the value of language teachers’ maintaining a culture of competence in spoken language.
Several contributors work and research in the language of other academic and professional disciplines. Lutfullayeva Shaxrizoda Faruxjon qizi outlines the current state of pneumonia diagnosis and treatment in young children. Mansurov Abdulaziz Abdullox ugli highlights the importance of preventive dental care in children. Fahriddin Akramov’s essay describes treatment for a variety of neurological conditions. Mamatqulova Mukarram Nuriddin qizi speaks to the life and academic stresses students endure and how to protect their mental health. Nasulloyeva Feruzabonu Akmalovna discusses the nature of scientific innovation and how to encourage it in Central Asia. Durdona Sharifovna Roziboyeva discusses the effects of the Herbst dental appliance on the upper airway.
Eshmurodova Sevinch explicates methods of improving deposit mobilization policies in commercial banks. Iroda Sobirova outlines basic principles of supply and demand in a market economy. Sobirova Iroda Abdulaziz qizi highlights strategies to foster innovative entrepreneurship. Mamadaliyeva O’giloy asserts her power and determination to become successful in academics and business.
Baxshilloyeva Nigina Bahodir qizi offers inspiration to young women seeking to live their dreams. Axmetova Dilnura Po’lat qizi outlines the historical and contemporary role of women in Central Asian societies. Sevinch Farxodova highlights the importance of gender equality and initiatives to that extent in Uzbekistan.
Shahnoza Pulatova Makhmudjanovna outlines and describes how Uzbek society is modernizing politically, economically, and socially. Dilafruz Muhammadjonova expresses fervent pride in and hope for Uzbekistan and the desire for the nation’s youth to rise up and take their place. Priyanka Neogi outlines ways to overcome depression and apathy and keep working towards one’s goals. Ziyoda Murodilova highlights the importance of internal motivation and determination for students to achieve their goals. https://synchchaos.com/essay-from-orzigul-sherova-4/Orzigul Sherova presents, in a similar vein, her secrets to success through passion and hard work.
We hope that this issue inspires you to create your place in the world with intention and joy.
What does it mean? Then. At night. Suddenly. Upon. Upon what? The boulevards and asphalt and holiday lights blue green, yellow, red, and the coyote den somewhere impossibly distant and camouflaged by the wondrous and strange woodlands. On rooftops that are hats for houses and on the good drivers and the bad ones, on the snow laden meadow where the fox goes by and I have memories of summer days when the praying mantis flew, and the birds crooned and the azure sky hovered like an angel itself.
Rain. Rainy. Rains. Nocturnal storms. Winds. I must have once looked out my window decades ago by hardwood floors with that oval carpet and my toys and books and posters, yes looked out at the winter ravine. Orphan psychically gifted, double crown and crown chakra open. In the house alone, guided by soft yellow lights and night light and spirit singing rueful songs. Evergreens across the way atop the hill. Knowing myself I would have stood and watched the drops against the glass, drops like tears upon the windows and sills. Nobody is listening but I am. Always. All this by paving stones and kidney shaped pool with black cover and blue water bags with red openings where you put the water after summer, all long gone. And the hills where the deer travel past sometimes at dawn.
Brian Michael Barbeito is a Canadian poet and photographer. His most recent work, Book of Love and Mourning is the third compilation of prose poems and landscape pictures.
Educational Institution: Tashkent State Dental Institute
Annotatsiya: Ushbu maqolada Herbst apparatidan yuklash yuqori nafas yo’llari funktsional holatiga ko’rsatgan ta’siri ilmiy tibbiy tahlil. Tekshiruv maqsadi ortodontik davolash jarayonida qo’shimcha tekshiruvgan Herbst nafas yo’llarining o’ apparati, havo o’tish dinamikasi hamda bemorlarga yordam bergan funktsional o’zgarishlarga qanday ta’sir ko’rsatishini aniqlashdan iborat. Olinganst yordam ko’rsatish, Herb apparati vositalari jag’ning oldinga surilishi orqali orofaringeal bo’shliqni davolashi, xavo ta’minotini yaxshilash va ayrim obstruktiv nafas yo’llari torayishini yordamga yordam berishi aniqlangan. Xulosalarning, Herbst apparati nafas yo’l funktsional holatini yaxshilashda muhim vosita bo’lishi mumkinligi ko’rsatib berilgan.
Kalit so‘zlar: Herbst apparati; ortodontik davolash; yuqori nafas yo‘llari; orofaringeal bo‘shliq; havo oqimi dinamikasi; obstruktiv nafas yo‘llari; sefalometrik tahlil; jag‘ning oldinga surilishi; ventilyatsiya ko‘rsatkichlari; nafas olish funksiyasi.
Abstract: This article presents a medical-scientific analysis of the impact of applying the Herbst appliance on the functional state of the upper airway. The aim of the study is to determine how the Herbst appliance, used as an additional tool in orthodontic treatment, affects airway dimensions, airflow dynamics, and functional changes that benefit patients. The results indicate that the Herbst appliance, through anterior repositioning of the mandible, can improve the condition of the oropharyngeal airway, enhance airflow, and in some cases help reduce obstructive airway narrowing. The conclusions demonstrate that the Herbst appliance may serve as an important tool in improving the functional state of the airway.
Аннотация : В данной статье представлен медико-научный анализ влияния применения аппарата Гербста на функциональное состояние верхних дыхательных путей. Цель исследования — определить, как аппарат Гербста, используемый в качестве дополнительного средства в ортодонтическом лечении, влияет на размеры дыхательных путей, динамику воздушного потока и функциональные изменения, приносящие пользу пациентам.Полученные результаты показывают, что аппарат Гербста за счёт выдвижения нижней челюсти вперёд может улучшить состояние орофарингеального пространства, повысить воздушный поток и в отдельных случаях помочь уменьшить обструктивное сужение дыхательных путей. В заключении отмечается, что аппарат Гербста может являться важным средством для улучшения функционального состояния дыхательных путей.
Ключевые слова : Аппарат Гербста; ортодонтическое лечение; верхние дыхательные пути; орофарингеальное пространство; динамика воздушного потока; обструктивное сужение дыхательных путей; цефалометрический анализ; выдвижение нижней челюсти; показатели вентиляции; дыхательная функция.
INTRODUCTION
The anatomical and functional condition of the respiratory tract is directly related to a person’s overall health, sleep quality, and daily activity. In particular, the narrowing or obstruction of the upper airway appears as a significant issue in many clinical situations, including sleep apnea, breathing difficulties, and patients with orthodontic abnormalities. In recent years, scientific interest has increased regarding the influence of functional orthodontic appliances not only on the dentoalveolar and skeletal structures but also on the dimensions and patency of the airway.
One such appliance is the Herbst appliance, which advances the mandible forward to correct the maxillomandibular relationship and may simultaneously enlarge the oropharyngeal space.
Evaluating the effect of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway is of high scientific and clinical importance, as it can help improve orthodontic treatment outcomes, enhance respiratory function, and reduce obstructive complications. However, the appliance’s impact on the airway—particularly airflow dynamics, ventilation parameters, and subjective breathing comfort—has not been sufficiently studied. Therefore, a thorough analysis of the functional mechanisms of the Herbst appliance remains a relevant research goal.
The primary aim of this study is to determine the effects of Herbst appliance therapy on anatomical and functional parameters of the upper airway, evaluate dynamic changes in airflow, and justify the additional clinical advantages of using this appliance during orthodontic treatment.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Studies investigating the effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway combine clinical, anatomical, and functional aspects. The main sources used in this article played a crucial role in shaping the research methodology, analyzing the results, and placing the findings into a broader scientific context.
Harvold demonstrated, through clinical and cephalometric analyses, that Herbst and other functional appliances can enlarge the oropharyngeal space by advancing the mandible, thereby improving airflow. Their work served as an essential reference when interpreting the results of our study.
Kiliaridis and Björk evaluated the effects of the Herbst appliance in growing patients, showing that mandibular advancement expands the oropharyngeal space and reduces obstructive conditions. Their findings were used to compare age groups and treatment effects in our study.
McNamara developed a detailed method for lateral cephalometric evaluation, providing a reliable tool for analyzing airway anatomy. His methodology formed the basis for assessing oropharyngeal dimensions and mandibular displacement in our research.
Ferguson reviewed upper airway changes associated with orthodontic treatment, including functional appliances. This source supported the scientific rationale for evaluating airway enlargement and sleep-related outcomes in patients using the Herbst appliance.
Bakke analyzed respiratory function changes in adolescents treated with functional appliances, specifically examining FVC, FEV1, and PEF parameters. This reference provided methodological guidance for interpreting spirometry results in our study.
These sources helped analyze the findings of our study and contextualize the biomechanical and clinical effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway. They also served as a scientific foundation for confirming the positive airway-related benefits of the appliance.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The study was conducted using an observational-analytical design aimed at comprehensively evaluating the effects of the Herbst appliance on the upper airway. The methodology included the following stages:
1. Clinical Observation:
Patients’ general somatic condition, craniofacial structure, subjective breathing changes, and adaptation to the Herbst appliance were monitored. An individual clinical chart was prepared for each patient.
2. Lateral Cephalometric Radiographic Analysis:
Cephalograms were obtained before and after treatment to measure anatomical airway parameters. The following measurements were recorded:
Oropharyngeal space width
Anteroposterior and vertical airway dimensions
Degree of mandibular advancement
Functional skeletal changes
3. Spirometry and Ventilation Assessment:
Pulmonary function was evaluated with a spirometric device measuring:
FVC (Forced Vital Capacity)
FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second)
PEF (Peak Expiratory Flow)
Airflow resistance index
Results were compared before treatment and after 6–10 months of Herbst appliance therapy.
4. Subjective Breathing Comfort Questionnaire:
Patients answered a Likert-scale questionnaire regarding breathing comfort, nasal airflow, sensation of shortness of breath, obstruction episodes, and sleep quality.
5. Duration of Herbst Appliance Therapy and Biomechanical Parameters:
Each patient used the appliance for 6–10 months. The degree of mandibular advancement, joint loading, and adaptation characteristics were documented.
6. Statistical Analysis:
Paired t-test was used to compare pre- and post-treatment values.
Correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the relationship between airway enlargement and spirometric outcomes.
RESULTS
The findings of the study were based on clinical observation, cephalometric analysis, spirometry, and patient-reported outcomes.
1. Increase in Oropharyngeal Space:
Lateral cephalometric analysis revealed that mandibular advancement with the Herbst appliance significantly expanded the oropharyngeal space. The average increase was 2.3 mm, with the most notable changes seen in the lower airway segment.
2. Airflow and Ventilation Improvements:
Spirometry showed enhanced pulmonary function following treatment:
FVC increased by an average of 7%
FEV1 increased by an average of 6%
PEF increased by an average of 5.5%
These findings indicate improved airflow dynamics and ventilation efficiency.
3. Subjective Breathing Comfort:
72% of patients reported easier breathing
65% reported improved sleep quality
58% experienced reduced sensations of obstruction or choking
4. Mandibular Advancement:
Cephalometric analysis showed an average mandibular advancement of 2–4 mm during treatment, directly contributing to airway enlargement and improved airflow.
5. Statistical Findings:
All parameters showed statistically significant differences between pre- and post-treatment measurements (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was found between mandibular advancement, oropharyngeal space enlargement, and FEV1 (r = 0.68, p < 0.01).
CONCLUSION
The results demonstrate that during orthodontic treatment, the Herbst appliance is effective not only in correcting dentoskeletal discrepancies but also in improving upper airway function. Mandibular advancement expands the oropharyngeal space, enhances airflow dynamics, and increases patients’ subjective breathing comfort. The appliance provides notable benefits for individuals at risk of upper airway obstruction, emphasizing its clinical relevance for reducing secondary respiratory issues.
The study concludes that the Herbst appliance contributes to both skeletal correction and improved respiratory function. Future research should include larger sample sizes and long-term assessment of treatment outcomes.
REFERENCES
Bakke, M., Espeland, L., & Krogstad, O. (1995). Functional appliances and respiratory function in adolescents. European Journal of Orthodontics, 17(1), 45–53. Https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/17.1.45
Ferguson, K. A., Carskadon, M. A., & Millman, R. P. (2006). Upper airway changes with orthodontic treatment: A review. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 10(2), 107–123. Https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2005.08.003
Harvold, E. P., Tomer, B. S., & Vargervik, K. (2000). Functional appliances and airway changes in orthodontics. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 118(2), 152–159. Https://doi.org/10.1016/S0889-5406(00)70391-8
Kiliaridis, S., & Björk, A. (1986). The effects of mandibular advancement on airway space in growing children. European Journal of Orthodontics, 8(2), 95–104. Https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/8.2.95
Valiathan, M., & Bock, N. (2010). Airway effects of mandibular advancement devices: Clinical implications. Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 44(5), 295–302.
Effective Methods for Developing Critical Thinking in New Generation Textbooks
Abstract: This article analyzes effective ways to develop students’ critical thinking using new generation textbooks as an example. The study examines the role of tasks and exercises presented in textbooks in fostering students’ skills of independent thinking, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions. Additionally, the importance of interactive methods, communicative approaches, and creative assignments in the development of critical thinking is highlighted.
In today’s world, reforms are being implemented in every sphere of human life. Likewise, as a result of recent reforms in the education system, new generation textbooks are being developed for school students. Unlike traditional textbooks of previous years, these modern textbooks are designed not only to provide knowledge but also to develop critical thinking skills in students, such as independent thinking, analysis, and problem-solving.
In the modern era, the diversity of information is rapidly increasing. In such circumstances, it is crucial not to passively accept information but to reflect on it, assess it critically, and form a correct understanding of reality. Developing these skills should ideally begin in the early stages of higher grades in schools. It is encouraging that the current scope of new textbooks, particularly in the subject of the native language, meets these requirements.
Taking the 5th-grade native language textbook as an example, it is important to note the use of colorful designs and illustrations selected according to the age characteristics of students. For children who have just completed primary education and are moving to higher grades, capturing their attention is essential. The colorful design helps increase their interest in the textbook. In terms of content, the topics are designed according to modern educational principles to develop critical thinking, communication skills, and text-related competencies. The exercises and assignments encourage student engagement, analysis, comparison, and drawing conclusions.
It should also be emphasized that the audio texts included in the textbook directly help develop students’ listening comprehension skills. Students first listen to the text and then answer questions based on its content, expressing their opinions and drawing conclusions.
For example, in Exercise 36 (page 115) of the 5th-grade native language textbook, the audio text “If You Want to Win” is provided. After listening attentively, students are required to answer the following questions:
What were the conditions of the competition organized by the frogs?
Why did the audience begin to doubt that the frogs could win?
How did the audience’s attitude affect the participants?
How might the winning frog have responded to the questions from the participants and the audience?
These questions encourage students not just to retell the text but to understand the reasons behind events, analyze the actions of characters, think critically, and draw conclusions. The fourth question, in particular, requires students to demonstrate creative thinking and oral expression skills. Through such tasks, students develop a deeper understanding of the text, identify cause-and-effect relationships, and learn to justify their opinions. Additionally, students gradually develop the ability to make independent decisions without being influenced by others’ opinions.
Another type of task in new generation textbooks that contributes to the development of critical thinking is distinguishing between correct and incorrect statements. Such tasks activate students’ thinking processes and encourage them to check, evaluate, justify, and draw conclusions based on information. For instance, in the 5th-grade native language textbook, students are asked to carefully read a short text and identify which statements are supported by evidence and which are not.
The use of audio texts, related exercises, logical questions, and practical assignments in modern textbooks is an effective tool for developing critical thinking. Ultimately, this approach serves the main goal of the educational process — to nurture creative, independent, and critically thinking individuals.
Nilufar Ibroximova was born in 2002 in Norin district, Namangan region. She graduated from the Faculty of Philology at Namangan State University in 2024. Currently, she is a second-year master’s student at Namangan State Pedagogical Institute.
