Symptom Score Research Articles

Meta-analysis on clinical efficacy of ringheaded thumbtack needle in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ringheaded thrumbtack needle in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR). Clinical studies about treatment of AR with ringheaded thrumbtack needle were searched from databases of CNKI, Wanfang, China Science and Technology Journal, China Biology Medicine disc, PubMed, Embase and Web of Science from their inception to November 2022. Two researchers independently screened the literature and collected related information. The total effective rate, visual analogue scale (VAS) for AR, rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ), and recurrence rate were the main outcome indicators. Secondary outcome indicators included quantitative scores of symptoms and signs, 'quartering' symptom evaluation scale, etc. All the included studies were subjected to Meta-analysis using Stata software. A total of 22 clinical studies involving 1 491 participants were included. The results of Meta-analysis indicated that the total effective rate of ringheaded thrumbtack needle in the treatment of AR was higher than that of traditional Chinese and Western medicine ［RR=1.20, 95%CI (1.14, 1.26), P<0.001］, and recurrence rate is lower than conventional therapy ［OR=0.35, 95%CI (0.14, 0.89), P=0.027］. Moreover, The VAS score ［WMD=-1.30, 95%CI (-1.85, -0.75), P<0.001］ and RQLQ score ［WMD=-6.75, 95%CI (-12.74, -0.76), P=0.027］ of AR treated by ringheaded thrumbtack needle were lower than those of traditional Chinese and Western medicine. Ringheaded thrumbtack needle can improve the total effective rate, reduce the disease recurrence, and improve the symptoms of discomfort when AR outbreaks, and has no significant adverse reactions. However, the reliability is limited. Thus, it is still necessary to improve the level of evidence quality by including researches with large samples, rigorous design and international standards.

Psychiatry Resident Physicians Experience Personal and Professional Grief, Burnout and Depression: Results From a National Survey.

Resident physicians experience personal and professional stressors throughout training. These experiences may increase levels of burnout, depression, and grief. Understanding how these stressors impact trainees is essential for improving wellbeing during residency. We examined the prevalence and associations between burnout, depression, and grief among a national sample of psychiatry resident physicians. A survey including validated scales for burnout (Modified Maslach Burnout Inventory-Health Services Survey [MBI]), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]), and grief (Traumatic Grief Inventory Self Report [TGSIR]) was distributed to 296 psychiatry program directors in January 2023 for dispersal to their respective residents. Fifty-seven participants completed the survey out of 245 participants who opened and started the survey (23.3%). All participants were current psychiatry residents. MBI scores averaged 21.2 (SD 6.5, range 11-40); 11 participants reported high levels of burnout (scores >27; 19.3%). PHQ-9 scores averaged 3.42 (SD 3.0, range 0-14), with 8 responses meeting the criteria for moderate depressive symptoms (scores >10-14; 14.0%). Suicidal ideation was reported by 5 of 57 participants (8.7%). TGISR scores averaged 12.2 (SD 11, range 0-43); no participants met the criteria for pathologic grief. TGISR scores were correlated with MBI (r = .30; P = .02) and PHQ-9 scores (r = .53; P < .0001). MBI scores were also correlated with PHQ-9 scores (r = .54; P < .0001). Non-pathological grief was correlated with burnout and depression. 14% to 20% of psychiatry residents reported clinically significant levels of burnout and depression. Future studies should aim to further characterize burnout, depression, and grief in larger samples of trainees.

Health-related quality of life of adult and adolescent patients living with alopecia areata in Australia.

To understand the experiences of adolescent and adult patients living with alopecia areata (AA) in Australia regarding symptom severity and the impact on psychosocial well-being and work/classroom productivity. A cross-sectional online patient survey among adolescent and adult patients diagnosed with AA was recruited via the Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation. Patient-reported outcomes were also assessed. A total of 337 patients (49 adolescents; 288 adults), with a mean ± standard deviation age of 14.7 ± 1.55 and 38.9 ± 13.31 years for adolescents and adults, respectively, were included. In the group with extensive hair loss (Scalp Hair Assessment Patient-Reported Outcome, categories 3 + 4, n = 172), we observed higher emotional symptom and activity limitation scores (Alopecia Areata Patient Priority Outcomes, emotional symptoms: adults 2.5 ± 1.03, adolescents 2.2 ± 1.15; activity limitations: adults 1.4 ± 1.15, adolescents 1.2 ± 0.99). Additionally, in adults, the Alopecia Areata Symptom Impact Scale global score was 4.0 ± 2.10 (symptoms subscale score 4.1 ± 1.91; interference subscale scores 3.8 ± 2.73). Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores were high across participants, irrespective of hair loss extent (adults: anxiety 9.2 ± 3.85, depression 6.6 ± 3.95; adolescents: anxiety 9.7 ± 4.65, depression 5.2 ± 3.59). Work and classroom productivity were substantially impaired due to AA, with 70.5% of adults and 57.1% of adolescents reporting activity impairment, and overall work/classroom impairment reported at 39.2% and 44.9%, respectively. AA impacts the physical, emotional and psychosocial well-being of both adult and adolescent patients. More extensive hair loss more profoundly impacts those living with AA. Patients may benefit from patient-centred care approaches addressing the impact of hair loss on mental and emotional well-being, daily activities and work productivity.

Validation of a modified-composite autonomic symptom score (COMPASS-31) as an outcome measure for persistent autonomic symptoms post-concussion: an observational pilot study

ABSTRACT Objective Persistent symptoms post-mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) includes autonomic dysregulation (AD). The composite autonomic symptoms score, (COMPASS-31), was developed to quantify AD symptom severity in the last year, which limits clinical utility. The primary aim was to determine validity of a modified-COMPASS-31 measuring symptoms in the last month compared to the original, secondarily to compare both original and modified versions to the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI), and tertiarily to detect change post-treatment of the modified-COMPASS-31 compared to NSI and headache intensity (HI). Participants Thirty-three military personnel with persistent headache post-mTBI. Main outcome measures Total and domain scores for COMPASS-31 (original vs. modified) NSI and HI at baseline. Change in modified-COMPASS-31. NSI, and HI. Results Baseline COMPASS-31 versions were comparable and highly correlated (r = 0.72, p < 0.001), they were moderately correlated at best to the NSI (r < 0.6), which may suggest differences in measurement metrics. The mean change in modified-COMPASS-31 scores (15.4/100, effect size 0.8) was mild to moderately correlated to the change in HI (r = 0.39) score, but not to NSI (r = 0.28). Conclusion The modified-COMPASS-31 appears to be valid, can measure change of AD symptom severity, and is recommended as an outcome measure.

THE ROLE OF LATE-ONSET HYPOGONADISM IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF MORPHO-FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN THE URINARY BLADDER DUE TO BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Introduction. One of the key characteristics of the lower urinary tract is its hormone dependence. Pathophysiological mechanisms of lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia include infravesical obstruction, formation of a fibrous framework in the urinary bladder, disruption of the urothelial barrier, and changes in the nervous and vascular networks of the pelvis. However, to date, there is a lack of data on the pathophysiological relationship between testosterone deficiency and morpho-functional changes of the bladder. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of age-related hypogonadism in the pathogenesis of morpho-functional changes in the urinary bladder among patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The results of the examination of 70 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, aged from 47 to 83 years (mean age 67.94 ± 7.42 years), were analyzed. The first group consisted of 20 patients, whose disease duration was 4 ± 1.8 years. They had an International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of 16 ± 4.5 points, a maximum flow rate (Qmax ) of 15.8 ± 2.4 ml/s, an average flow rate (Qave) of 12.8 ± 2.8 ml/s, and no post-void residual. The second group included 20 patients with incomplete bladder emptying, with a disease duration of 5.8 ± 3.5 years. Their IPSS was 26 ± 3.9 points, Qmax was 10.8 ± 2.5 ml/s, Qave was 4.4 ± 1.4 ml/s, and post-void residual was 150.1 ± 80.8 ml. The third group comprised 30 patients who had undergone cystostomy, with a disease duration of 10.6 ± 3.3 years. Before cystostomy, their IPSS was 33.1 ± 1.88 points, and post-void residual was 1093.3 ± 458.8 ml. During surgery, all patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia were taken a biopsy from the anterior wall of the bladder. In benign prostatic hyperplasia patients in the stage of bladder compensation, the level of testosterone was 15.39±1.44 nmol/l, the Aging Males Symptoms indicator was 24.80±5.78 points. Morphometric analysis of bladder tissue demonstrated the following: the diameter of the lumen of arterioles was 27.96±2.14 μm, the thickness of the arteriole wall was 16.03±1.83 μm, the Kernoghan index for arterioles was 1.22±0.17, the specific gravity of connective tissue made 4.48±0.82%, the diameter of SMCs was 7.46±1.66 μm. In benign prostatic hyperplasia patients in the stage of bladder subcompensation, the level of testosterone was 10.92±2.24 nmol/l, the Aging Males Symptoms index was 37.9±8.0 points. Morphometric analysis of bladder tissue revealed the following: the diameter of the arteriole lumen was 23.78±1.62 μm, the thickness of the arteriole wall was 18.30±1.32 μm, the Kernoghan index for arterioles was q1.65±0.18, the specific gravity of the connective tissue made up 11.80±1.22%, the diameter of SMCs was 7.07±1.93 μm. In benign prostatic hyperplasia patients in the stage of bladder decompensation, the level of testosterone is 9.66±2.13 nmol/l, the Aging Males Symptoms index is 55.80±6.69 points. Morphometric analysis of bladder tissue showed the following: the diameter of the arteriole lumen was 19.0±2.08 μm, the thickness of the arteriole wall – 21.01±1.57 μm, the Kernoghan index for arterioles was 2.41±0.32, the specific gravity of the connective tissue made up 29. 46±1.35%, the diameter of SMCs was 4.75±1.87 μm. The obstructive component is not the only causal factor of bladder decompensation in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. A decrease in the level of testosterone triggers a cascade of pathological processes that negatively affect the morpho-functional state of the prostate gland and worsen the results of surgical treatment of patients with benign prostatic obstruction.

The Onset or Worsening of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Patients Infected with COVID-19

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) manifestations are highly diverse, potentially affecting nearly all organ systems during or after infection. Given the importance of a thorough assessment of COVID-19. Objectives: Our study aimed to investigate any new onset or worsening lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients infected with COVID-19. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 88 COVID-19 patients completed the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Overactive Bladder and the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score Questionnaires (OABSS). The patients assessed stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and difficulty voiding. Results: Our study revealed that urinary symptoms were the only initial symptom for 28 (31.8%) of the patients or part of the initial symptoms. Furthermore, new onset of OAB symptoms was noted in 35 (39.8%) patients; worsening of pre-diagnosed OAB symptoms was noted in 4 (4.5%) patients; new onset SUI was reported in 17 (32.7%) women, and voiding dysfunction was reported in one woman and two men. There was no significant difference in demographic characteristics, laboratory tests, and lung involvement between patients with and without LUTS (P &gt; 0.05). However, new onset or worsening LUTS significantly (P &lt; 0.001) affected the quality of life. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that LUTS could be the only symptom or one of the initial symptoms of COVID-19. Therefore, physicians should consider COVID-19 as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with these symptoms.

Semaglutide in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: Exploring Recent Evidence in Therapeutic Potential for the Obese Population.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is an increasingly prevalent condition, particularly among the aging population in the United States, and is associated with significant challenges due to its complex pathophysiology and limited therapeutic options. Historically, few pharmacological therapies have successfully mitigated HFpEF, making the emergence of effective treatments particularly significant. This review evaluates recent evidence on the therapeutic potential of semaglutide for managing HFpEF, especially in the obese population. Results from the STEP-HFpEF and STEP-HFpEF DM trials demonstrate that semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist originally developed for type 2 diabetes but now also approved for obesity treatment, significantly improves clinical outcomes such as symptom scores, body weight, exercise capacity, and inflammation markers in the obese population suffering from HFpEF. These improvements are attributed to both the weight loss induced by semaglutide and its direct effects on the congestive pathophysiology of HFpEF. The efficacy of semaglutide offers new hope for addressing a condition that has long lacked effective pharmacological interventions.

Reliability and validity analysis of Turkish version of the Symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network Symptom Index-10 (LURN SI-10) questionnaire.

To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Symptoms of Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Research Network Symptom Index-10 (LURN SI-10). In this, single-centre study, patients between 18 and 65 years old, who were suffering from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) without any known urinary tract disease and on no medication, were enrolled. The control group consisted of participants, who were admitted to our clinic suffering from any complaint except LUTS and met all of the other inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants' demographics such as age, sex, and level of education were recorded. The Turkish version of the LURN SI-10, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB-V8) were administered to all participants. Construct validity was evaluated by confirmatory factor analysis and concurrent validity was evaluated with correlations to similar measures. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was used to establish the scale's internal consistency reliability. A total of 164 participants were included in the final analysis. Of those, 57% were male. The individuals were identified as being in the "patient group" (n = 86) and a "control group" (n = 78). The mean age was 48.24 ± 14.30 years. The median total LURN SI-10 scores of patient group and control group were 12.0 (9-18.25) and 4.0 (2.75-6), respectively. The LURN SI-10 questionnaire showed a high correlation with the IPSS and the OAB-V8 questionnaires (r: 0.761; p: 0.001; r: 0.737; p: 0.001, respectively) in concurrent validity analysis. Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the LURN SI-10 was 0.850. This promising measurement tool can be used to evaluate LUTS in Turkish women and men. Further studies should be conducted to assess the clinical usefulness of this questionnaire.

Efficacy of Chinese Medicine Treatment Based on Syndrome Differentiation for Primary Insomnia: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Triple-Blinded Trial.

To assess efficacy of Chinese medicine (CM) on insomnia considering characteristics of treatment based on syndrome differentiation. A total of 116 participants aged 18 to 65 years with moderate and severe primary insomnia were randomized to the placebo (n=20) or the CM group (n=96) for a 4-week treatment and a 4-week follow-up. Three CM clinicians independently prescribed treatments for each patient based on syndromes differentiation. The primary outcome was change in total sleep time (TST) from baseline. Secondary endpoints included sleep onset latency (SOL), wake time after sleep onset (WASO), sleep efficiency, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and CM symptoms. The CM group had an average 0.6 h more (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.3-0.9, P<0.001) TST and 34.1% (10.3%-58.0%, P=0.005) more patients beyond 0.5 h TST increment than that of the placebo group. PSQI was changed -3.3 (-3.8 to -2.7) in the CM group, a -2.0 (-3.2 to -0.8, P<0.001) difference from the placebo group. The CM symptom score in the CM group decreased -2.0 (-3.3 to -0.7, P=0.003) more than the placebo group. SOL and WASO changes were not significantly different between groups. The analysis of prescriptions by these clinicians revealed blood deficiency and Liver stagnation as the most common syndromes. Prescriptions for these clinicians displayed relative stability, while the herbs varied. All adverse events were mild and were not related to study treatment. CM treatment based on syndrome differentiation can increase TST and improve sleep quality of primary insomnia. It is effective and safe for primary insomnia. In future studies, the long-term efficacy validation and the exploratory of eutherapeutic clinicians' fixed herb formulas should be addressed (Registration No. NCT01613183).

Longitudinal invariance of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 among patients receiving pharmacotherapy for major depressive disorder: A secondary analysis of clinical trial data.

Comparing self-reported symptom scores across time requires longitudinal measurement invariance (LMI), a psychometric property that means the measure is functioning identically across all time points. Despite its prominence as a measure of depression symptom severity in both research and health care, LMI has yet to be firmly established for the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 depression module (PHQ-9), particularly over the course of antidepressant pharmacotherapy. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to assess for LMI of the PHQ-9 during pharmacotherapy for major depressive disorder. This was a secondary analysis of data collected during a randomized controlled trial. A total of 1,944 veterans began antidepressant monotherapy and completed the PHQ-9 six times over 24 weeks of treatment. LMI was assessed using a series of four confirmatory factor analysis models that included all six time points, with estimated parameters increasingly constrained across models to test for different aspects of invariance. Root-mean-square error of approximation of the chi-square difference test values below 0.06 indicated the presence of LMI. Exploratory LMI analyses were also performed for separate sex, age, and race subgroups. Root-mean-square error of approximation of the chi-square difference test showed minimal change in model fits during invariance testing (≤ 0.06 for all steps), supporting full LMI for the PHQ-9. LMI was also supported for all tested veteran subgroups. As such, PHQ-9 sum scores can be compared across extended pharmacotherapy treatment durations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Novel composite BPH3 trifecta for robotic assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) versus BPH6: A multicenter outcomes comparison.

To assess disobstructive proficiency of BPH3 trifecta in RASP according to different techniques. Baseline prostate volume (PV), uroflowmetry parameters and Validated questionnaires: IIEF, Incontinence severity index score (ISI), International prostatic symptoms score (IPSS), MSHQ, Quality of recovery (QOR), were recorded preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively. RASP was conducted using both the urethra-sparing (Madigan) technique and a non-urethral-sparing transvesical (Freyer) approach. Two groups were evaluated for achievement rates in terms of BPH-3 and BPH-6. BPH-3 was defined by a combination of: a reduction of ⩾30% in IPSS compared to baseline, ISI score ⩽ 4, and absence of complications beyond Clavien grade 1. About 158 patients underwent RASP, with 93 undergoing the Madigan procedure and 65 the Freyer approach. Patients in the Madigan group were younger, with lower PV, baseline IPSS score, overactive symptoms (ISI score), but higher MSHQ and IIEF score, when compared to the Freyer population (all p < 0.02). At 12-month follow-up, patients who underwent the Madigan procedure reported shorter bladder irrigation time and time to catheter removal (both p < 0.001). As expected, Madigan patients also demonstrated superior postoperative IIEF and MSHQ scores (all p < 0.001). Postoperative complication incidence was higher in the Madigan cohort, mainly due to UTI (p < 0.001). Although there were no differences in postoperative IPSS and Q-max between groups, the Madigan cohort presented with higher post void residue (p < 0.001). BPH6 achievement was higher in the Madigan cohort (48% vs 28%) (p < 0.001), while no difference was observed in BPH3 achievement rate. The BPH3 composite trifecta appears to be more suitable than BPH6 in assessing the proficiency in disobstructive symptoms relief after RASP.

Effectiveness and tolerability of rectal ointment and suppositories containing sucralfate for hemorrhoidal symptoms: a prospective, observational study

Background and aimsA high number of topical products are available for the treatment of hemorrhoidal symptoms. Sucralfate-based topical products constitute a new treatment alternative that act as a mechanical barrier to facilitate healing. The aim of this prospective, observational study was to determine patient- and physician-assessed effectiveness and tolerability of rectal ointment and suppositories containing sucralfate for the treatment of hemorrhoidal symptoms in routine clinical practice.MethodsAdult patients with diagnosed, mild-to-moderate, symptomatic non-bleeding hemorrhoids treated with rectal ointment or suppositories containing sucralfate were enrolled. Patients were administered treatment twice per day for at least 1 week until symptom resolution and/or for a maximum of 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was patient-assessed effectiveness on a modified Symptom Severity Score (mSSS, range 0 to 14). Physician-assessed effectiveness (9 symptoms, 0 to 5 Likert scale), hemorrhoid grade, and patient satisfaction were also determined.ResultsFive investigators enrolled 60 patients; mean age was 48.4 ± 16.6 years and 72.4% were female. Pain or pressure sensitivity was reported as the most severe symptom by patients, and pressure sensitivity, discharge, soiling, and prolapse by physicians. Mean patient-assessed mSSS at baseline was 6.6 ± 1.9 and was significantly improved overall and in the ointment and suppository groups individually by −4.6 ± 2.0, −4.4 ± 1.8, and −4.8 ± 2.2, respectively (p < 0.0001). Investigator-assessed mean baseline symptom score was 18.1 ± 3.9 and improved by −7.1 ± 4.5, −6.9 ± 5.4, and −7.3 ± 3.5, respectively (p < 0.0001). Investigator-assessed symptoms of pressure sensitivity, swelling, and discharge were improved to the greatest extent. Hemorrhoid grade was improved in 38% of patients at the end of treatment. Compliance with treatment was 97.4% and patient satisfaction with application and onset of action was high (81.3% and 76.2%, respectively). Both the ointment and suppository were well tolerated.ConclusionsThe effectiveness of topical ointment or suppository containing sucralfate on patient- and investigator-assessed hemorrhoidal symptoms in real-life clinical practice was demonstrated. Patient satisfaction was high and treatments were well tolerated. Larger controlled trials are warranted to confirm the results.

Validation of Medicinal Plant Use Needs More Support

The COVID-19 pandemic was both a curse and a gift. As a curse, it brought immense suffering and death. All aspects of our daily lives were affected, including healthcare, the economy, and social interactions.1 It was a gift because of the enormity of the problem, the same pandemic has fueled national and international initiatives to produce anti-COVID vaccines and therapies in record time.2 In the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology was at the forefront of providing technical and financial support for local research on COVID-19, specifically for three plant-based therapies or supplements.3 Our paper was one of the research studies that the DOST supported. It was a two-stage multicenter parallel, randomized clinical trial using the NIRPROMP-IHM formulation of Lagundi (Vitex negundo) for patients with mild COVID-19.4 Stage 1 compared high and regular Lagundi doses. Stage 2 was an efficacy trial comparing the best dose found in Stage 1 to placebo. Compared to the placebo, the Lagundi group had statistically significantly lower total symptom and anosmia scores, indicating beneficial effects. There was a trend for lower symptom scores (cough, colds, fever, fatigue, body malaise, ageusia) in the Lagundi group but not statistically significant. Physician and patient-rated global evaluation ratings were higher for Lagundi than placebo, suggesting better alleviation, but were not statistically significant. Recovery times were similar for both groups, with few adverse events overall. The second study, published in this issue, is on using virgin coconut oil (VCO) as an adjunctive treatment for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 (pages 31 to 41). Further reading of the paper also showed similar recovery times and duration of hospital stay for both VCO and placebo groups. A positive outcome was that the inflammatory marker CRP was seen to normalize in more patients in the VCO group compared to the placebo. Other positive outcomes for the VCO group included a trend for lower mortality rate and lower ICU admission. The third study involving Tawa tawa (Euphorbia hirta) for COVID-19 patients has yet to be published. Positive effects were seen for both Lagundi and VCO, as stated above. In a review article by Dayrit, he recommended studies on several Philippine medicinal plants with immunomodulatory activity, including VCO and lagundi.5 More extensive trials may further elucidate their full potential. I would also suggest exploring their use in long COVID. It is only appropriate to endorse using Philippine medicinal plants for therapeutic purposes after conducting adequate human studies to establish their efficacy and safety profile. Randomized clinical trials are the gold standard; the study should have internal and external validity. More funding should be invested in such studies so that we can fully and correctly utilize our bountiful natural resources. Herbal medicines can potentially address issues in our healthcare system, such as the need for economical, effective, and safe treatments for many primary care illnesses. These were seen with the development of the NIRPROMP-IHM formulations of Lagundi and Sambong (Blumea balsamifera), which are being prescribed by Filipino physicians and included in the Philippine National Formulary.6 Developing more herbal medicines will benefit the patients, the farmers who plant these crops, the local pharmaceutical industry, and the Philippine economy. This would further lead to increased self-sufficiency for the nation as a whole. There are many more medicinal plants to explore and use for various acute and chronic diseases. Sadly, many entrepreneurs peddle their so-called wonder drugs (herbal or otherwise) on the internet or other channels as safe and effective just because they are natural and with minimal studies claiming to cure everything under the sun. Social media should not be our sole source of information, but looking into the evidence, such as those reported by the article on VCO, can help us understand their actual place in therapy.

Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation: a comprehensive evaluation across diseases in randomized controlled trials

BackgroundCurrent literature extensively covers the use of sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation (SPGs) in treating a broad spectrum of medical conditions, such as allergic rhinitis, cluster headaches, and strokes. Nevertheless, a discernible gap in the systematic organization and analysis of these studies is evident. This paper aims to bridge this gap by conducting a comprehensive review and analysis of existing literature on SPGs across various medical conditions.MethodsThis study meticulously constructed a comprehensive database through systematic computerized searches conducted on PubMed, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and CBM up to May 2022. The inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in either Chinese or English, focusing on the therapeutic applications of SPGs for various medical conditions. Both qualitative and quantitative outcome indicators were considered eligible for inclusion.ResultsThis comprehensive study reviewed 36 publications, comprising 10 high-quality, 23 medium-quality, and three low-quality articles. The study investigated various diseases, including allergic rhinitis (AR), ischemic strokes (IS), cluster headache (CH), primary trigeminal neuralgia (PTN), pediatric chronic secretory otitis (PCSO), refractory facial paralysis (RFP), chronic tension-type headache (CTTH), as well as the analysis of low-frequency sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation (LF-SPGs) in chronic cluster headache (CCH) and the impact of SPGs on Normal nasal cavity function (NNCF). SPGs demonstrate efficacy in the treatment of AR. Regarding the improvement of rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ) scores, SPGs are considered the optimal intervention according to the SUCRA ranking. Concerning the improvement in Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS), Conventional Acupuncture Combined with Tradiational Chinese Medicine (CA-TCM) holds a significant advantage in the SUCRA ranking and is deemed the best intervention. In terms of increasing Effective Rate (ER), SPGs outperformed both conventional acupuncture (CA) and Western Medicine (WM; P &amp;lt; 0.05). In the context of SPGs treatment for IS, the results indicate a significant improvement in the 3-month outcomes, as evaluated by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) in the context of Cerebral Cortical Infarction (CCI; P &amp;lt; 0.05). In the treatment of CH with SPGs, the treatment has been shown to have a statistically significant effect on the relief and disappearance of headaches (P &amp;lt; 0.05). The impact of SPGs on NNCF reveals statistically significant improvements (P &amp;lt; 0.05) in nasal airway resistance (NAR), nasal cavity volume (NCV), exhaled nitric oxide (eNO), substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY). SPGs treatments for PCSO, RFP, and CTTH, when compared to control groups, yielded statistically significant results (P &amp;lt; 0.05).ConclusionSPGs demonstrate significant effectiveness in the treatment of AR, IS, and CH. Effective management of CCH may require addressing both autonomic dysregulation and deeper neural pathways. However, additional high-quality research is essential to clarify its effects on NNCF, PTN, PCSO, RFP, and CTTH.Systematic Review RegistrationPROSPERO, identifier CRD42021252073, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=312429.

Healing of Haemorrhoidal Disease with Homoeopathy – A Case Series

AbstractHaemorrhoidal disease is recognised as one of the most common proctologic medical conditions in general population. This is a case series of five patients suffering from haemorrhoidal disease having intense pain while defecation, swelling around anus, bleeding per rectum, itching in anus and prolapsed internal haemorrhoids which were healed completely by the individualised homoeopathy without any surgical intervention. Haemorrhoidal disease symptom score and a disease-specific short health score were used to assess the symptom severity and improvement in quality of life of the patients, measured at baseline, third and at sixth month of the treatment. The possible causal attribution of the changes was assessed. The cases were reported according to the HOM-CASE guidelines. Homoeopathic medicines such as Acidum nitricum, Aesculus hippocastanum, Lycopodium clavatum, Nux vomica and Thuja occidentalis were found useful.

Comparative efficacy and safety of alpha-blockers as monotherapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Despite the availability of various drugs for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), alpha(α)-blockers are the preferred first-line treatment. However, there remains a scarcity of direct comparisons among various α-blockers. Therefore, this network meta-analysis (NMA) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of α-blockers in the management of BPH. A comprehensive electronic search covered PubMed, Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library until August 2023. The primary endpoints comprised international prostate symptom score (IPSS), maximum flow rate (Qmax), quality of life (QoL), and post-void residual volume (PVR), while treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were considered as secondary endpoints. This NMA synthesized evidence from 22 studies covering 3371 patients with six kinds of α-blockers with 12 dose categories. IPSS has been considerably improved by tamsulosin 0.4 mg, naftopidil 50 mg and silodosin 8 mg as compared to the placebo. Based on the p-score, tamsulosin 0.4 mg had the highest probability of ranking for IPSS, PVR, and Qmax, whereas doxazosin 8 mg had the highest probability of improving QoL. A total of 297 adverse events were reported among all the α-blockers, silodosin has reported a notable number of TEAEs. Current evidence supports α-blockers are effective in IPSS reduction and are considered safer. Larger sample size with long-term studies are needed to refine estimates of IPSS, QoL, PVR, and Qmax outcomes in α-blocker users.

Comparative analysis of symptom burdens and influential factors among diverse terminally-ill patients.

The suffering experienced by terminally-ill patients encompasses physiological, psychosocial and spiritual dimensions. While previous studies have investigated symptom burden intensity for specific disease groups, such as cancer or heart failure patients, a research gap exists in understanding major distressing symptoms among diverse terminally-ill patients. This study assessed symptom burden intensity and explored its influential factors among diverse patient disease groups. This cross-sectional study utilized the baseline Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale (IPOS) assessment data. The study participants were terminally-ill patients enrolled in an end-of-life care (EoLC) intervention in Hong Kong. Statistical methods including relative importance index (RII), one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and generalized linear regression (GLR) were employed. Final sample consisted of 1,549 terminally-ill patients (mean age =77.4 years, SD =11.6). The five top-rated distressing symptoms among these patients, revealed by the RII analysis, were poor mobility (RII =64.4%), family anxiety (RII =63.5%), sharing feelings with family/friends (RII =61.4%), weakness/ lack of energy (RII =58.1%), and hardly feeling at peace (RII =50.7%). One-way ANOVA showed significant differences among the eight disease groups in perceived physical and emotional symptom burden intensity (P<0.05). Analysis of RII symptom scores for each disease group revealed that poor mobility was rated as the most distressing symptom (RII =85.1-62.9%) by patients with motor neurone disease, Parkinson's disease, heart failure, dementia, end-stage renal disease and other serious diseases (including stroke, hematological disease, multiple sclerosis and liver diseases). Perceived family anxiety (RII =66.1%) and shortness of breath (RII =63.8%) were the most distressing symptoms for cancer patients and those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, respectively. GLR analysis showed that illness type is the most significant factor influencing the perceived burden intensity in terms of the IPOS total and subscale scores of physical symptoms, emotional symptoms and communication/practical issues. Demographic characteristics such as age, gender, marital status and co-residing status were also identified as influential factors of various symptom categories. However, patients' educational level and relationship with primary caregiver did not significantly influence any perceived symptom burden. This study provides valuable insights into the symptom burdens experienced by diverse patient disease groups at end-stage of life. The findings highlight the major distressing symptoms of poor mobility, family anxiety, and shortness of breath. Addressing these symptoms is crucial in improving the quality of care for terminally-ill patients. Furthermore, the study identifies influential factors that can affect the perceived intensity of symptom burden, primarily the main type of terminal illness and patient's age. Tailored care support and improved clinical care should be implemented, particularly for high-risk groups such as patients with non-cancer terminal illnesses and older aged patients. These findings contribute to existing literature and emphasize the need for comprehensive and individualized care in EoLC.

Classifying Self-Reported Rheumatoid Arthritis Flares Using Daily Patient-Generated Data From a Smartphone App: Exploratory Analysis Applying Machine Learning Approaches.

The ability to predict rheumatoid arthritis (RA) flares between clinic visits based on real-time, longitudinal patient-generated data could potentially allow for timely interventions to avoid disease worsening. This exploratory study aims to investigate the feasibility of using machine learning methods to classify self-reported RA flares based on a small data set of daily symptom data collected on a smartphone app. Daily symptoms and weekly flares reported on the Remote Monitoring of Rheumatoid Arthritis (REMORA) smartphone app from 20 patients with RA over 3 months were used. Predictors were several summary features of the daily symptom scores (eg, pain and fatigue) collected in the week leading up to the flare question. We fitted 3 binary classifiers: logistic regression with and without elastic net regularization, a random forest, and naive Bayes. Performance was evaluated according to the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve. For the best-performing model, we considered sensitivity and specificity for different thresholds in order to illustrate different ways in which the predictive model could behave in a clinical setting. The data comprised an average of 60.6 daily reports and 10.5 weekly reports per participant. Participants reported a median of 2 (IQR 0.75-4.25) flares each over a median follow-up time of 81 (IQR 79-82) days. AUCs were broadly similar between models, but logistic regression with elastic net regularization had the highest AUC of 0.82. At a cutoff requiring specificity to be 0.80, the corresponding sensitivity to detect flares was 0.60 for this model. The positive predictive value (PPV) in this population was 53%, and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 85%. Given the prevalence of flares, the best PPV achieved meant only around 2 of every 3 positive predictions were correct (PPV 0.65). By prioritizing a higher NPV, the model correctly predicted over 9 in every 10 non-flare weeks, but the accuracy of predicted flares fell to only 1 in 2 being correct (NPV and PPV of 0.92 and 0.51, respectively). Predicting self-reported flares based on daily symptom scorings in the preceding week using machine learning methods was feasible. The observed predictive accuracy might improve as we obtain more data, and these exploratory results need to be validated in an external cohort. In the future, analysis of frequently collected patient-generated data may allow us to predict flares before they unfold, opening opportunities for just-in-time adaptative interventions. Depending on the nature and implication of an intervention, different cutoff values for an intervention decision need to be considered, as well as the level of predictive certainty required.

Correlating Reiff scores with clinical, functional, and prognostic factors: characterizing noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis severity: validation from a nationwide multicenter study in Taiwan

BackgroundOur study aimed to confirm a simplified radiological scoring system, derived from a modified Reiff score, to evaluate its relationship with clinical symptoms and predictive outcomes in Taiwanese patients with noncystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB).MethodsThis extensive multicenter retrospective study, performed in Taiwan, concentrated on patients diagnosed with NCFB verified through high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans. We not only compared the clinical features of various types of bronchiectasis (cylindrical, varicose, and cystic). Furthermore, we established relationships between the severity of clinical factors, including symptom scores, pulmonary function, pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization, exacerbation and admission rates, and HRCT parameters using modified Reiff scores.ResultsData from 2,753 patients were classified based on HRCT patterns (cylindrical, varicose, and cystic) and severity, assessed by modified Reiff scores (mild, moderate, and severe). With increasing HRCT severity, a significant correlation was found with decreased forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (p < 0.001), heightened clinical symptoms (p < 0.001), elevated pathogen colonization (pseudomonas aeruginosa) (p < 0.001), and an increased annual hospitalization rate (p < 0.001). In the following multivariate analysis, elderly age, pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia, and hospitalizations per year emerged as the only independent predictors of mortality.ConclusionBased on our large cohort study, the simplified CT scoring system (Reiff score) can serve as a useful adjunct to clinical factors in predicting disease severity and prognosis among Taiwanese patients with NCFB.

Sex differences in neuronal activation in the cortex and midbrain during quinine-adulterated alcohol intake.

Continued alcohol consumption despite negative consequences is a core symptom of alcohol use disorder. This is modeled in mice by pairing negative stimuli with alcohol, such as adulterating alcohol solution with quinine. Mice consuming alcohol under these conditions are considered to be engaging in aversion-resistant intake. Previously, we have observed sex differences in this behavior, with females more readily expressing aversion-resistant consumption. We also identified three brain regions that exhibited sex differences in neuronal activation during quinine-alcohol drinking: ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), posterior insular cortex (PIC), and ventral tegmental area (VTA). Specifically, male mice showed increased activation in vmPFC and PIC, while females exhibited increased activation in VTA. In this study, we aimed to identify what specific type of neurons are activated in these regions during quinine-alcohol drinking. We assessed quinine-adulterated alcohol intake using the two-bottle choice procedure. We also utilized RNAscope in situ hybridization in the three brain regions that previously exhibited a sex difference to examine colocalization of Fos, glutamate, GABA, and dopamine. Females showed increased aversion-resistant alcohol consumption compared to males. We also found that males had higher colocalization of glutamate and Fos in vmPFC and PIC, while females had greater dopamine and Fos colocalization in the VTA. Collectively, these experiments suggest that glutamatergic output from the vmPFC and PIC may have a role in suppressing, and dopaminergic activity in the VTA may promote, aversion-resistant alcohol consumption. Future experiments will examine neuronal circuits that contribute to sex differences in aversion resistant consumption.