Abstract Selection Criteria

All abstracts must be received by March 3, 2017


We encourage you to submit early to ensure prompt processing


Abstracts will be selected on the basis of the scientific quality of the work as judged from the abstract. Original work is required, such as systematic reviews, professional innovations or new research. The ADHA Abstract Review Committee will evaluate the content of each abstract and make a final decision. Each abstract must contain the following elements from its respective category:


PROFESSIONAL INNOVATIONS

This would encompass innovations in practice, education, public health, etc. that will support the integration of dental hygienists into the health care delivery system as essential care providers to expand access to oral health care. 

1. Purpose and goals are clearly defined.
2. The significance is clearly stated.
3. Key features are clearly described.
4. The evaluation plan is well developed or the results demonstrate effectiveness. 


NEW RESEARCH

1. Study purposes are clearly defined.
2. Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval is required for all studies involving human subjects or animals. provide the name of the entity approving this research and the approval number.
3. Clearly state the problem and significance of the study.
4. Methodology (design, sampling, and intervention) is outlined and appropriate for the study.
5. Results, including specific data analysis, are included. 
6. Conclusions are supported by the results and stated clearly. The research should be completed. 
7. Studies-in-progress at the time of submission must include a detailed plan for statistical analysis and preliminary findings. Final results should be available by the final revision due date. 


SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

1. A clearly formulated question.
2. Uses systematic and explicit methods to identify, select, and critically appraise relevant research, and to collect and analyze data from the studies that are included in the review. 
3. Statistical methods (meta-analysis) may or may not be used to analyze and summarize the results of the included studies. 
4. The review process is comprehensive and unbiased. 

COMMON REASONS FOR AN ABSTRACT TO BE REJECTED OR REVISED: 

1. Abstract does not follow the guidelines for the preparation of abstracts.
2. Abstract content does not comply with stated criteria.
3. No data or appropriate statistics are given.
4. Conclusion is not supported by results.
5. Over-generalized statements, such as "Results will be discussed and data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical tests". 
6. Please note that abstracts in the evaluation phase will be accepted provisionally until final data are submitted no later than the revision due date.