Better Quality Of Life Research Articles

Transcending boundaries

This study investigated the transpersonal effects of self-initiated expatriation among retirees, a phenomenon increasingly significant in today’s globalised world. The research contextualised expatriation within a broader exploration of retirees’ pursuit of a better quality of life, cultural enrichment, and personal growth, situating these motivations within the existing literature on ageing and transpersonal psychology. Employing organic inquiry, a method that captures deeply personal and transformative experiences, and looking into the experiences of four expatriate retirees, the study revealed four key themes: the initial call to expatriation, identity reformation through cultural immersion, the challenges of cultural integration, and the psychological rebirth characterised by gerotranscendence. Findings suggest that expatriation in retirement leads to profound psychological and spiritual transformations, fostering a redefined sense of self and an expanded worldview. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the psychological and spiritual dimensions of retirement and ageing, challenging traditional narratives and offering new perspectives for scholars, policymakers, and individuals considering expatriation. The study fills a critical gap in the literature by providing a nuanced exploration of the personal and transpersonal consequences of expatriation.

Restorative Treatments for Cervical Spinal Cord Injury, a Narrative Review.

A narrative review. To summarize relevant data from representative studies investigating upper limb restorative therapies for cervical spinal cord injury. Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition resulting in tetraplegia, lifelong disability, and reduced quality of life. Given the dependence of all activities on hand function, patients with tetraplegia rank regaining hand function as one of their highest priorities. Recovery from cervical SCI is heterogeneous and often incomplete; currently, various novel therapies are under investigation to improve neurological function and eventually better quality of life in patients with tetraplegia. In this article, a narrative literature review was performed to identify treatment options targeting the restoration of function in patients with cervical SCI. Studies were included from available literature based on the availability of clinical data and whether they are applicable to restoration of arm and hand function in patients with cervical SCI. We describe relevant studies including indications and outcomes with a focus on arm and hand function. Different treatment modalities described include nerve transfers, tendon transfers, spinal cord stimulation, functional electrical stimulation, non-invasive brain stimulation, brain-machine interfaces and neuroprosthetics, stem cell therapy, and immunotherapy. As the authors' institution leads one of the largest clinical trials on nerve transfers for cervical SCI, we also describe how patients undergoing nerve transfers are managed and followed at our center. While complete recovery from cervical spinal cord injury may not be possible, novel therapies aimed at the restoration of upper limb motor function have made significant progress toward the realization of complete recovery.

The Lifestyle and Quality of Life Among Nursing Students.

Nursing students will graduate as professional nurses and serve as community health role models. They need to start living a healthy lifestyle and having a good quality of life as soon as feasible. However, their attitudes and actions often reflect the opposite, as if their learning has little bearing on their lives. This study examines nursing students' lifestyle and quality of life, as well as the relationship between lifestyle and quality of life at a private university in Tangerang, Indonesia. This study is cross-sectional. The population comprised up to 220 third-year nursing students from one of Tangerang's private universities. The sample size was 147 students, drawn from convenience sampling. Data were collected online using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire and a lifestyle questionnaire that has been validated and reliable. The findings revealed that most students had a healthy lifestyle (72.1%) but a low quality of life (62.6%). Furthermore, there was a significant association between lifestyle and quality of life in nursing students (p-value 0.003). Nursing students must maintain a healthy lifestyle to have a good quality of life. Building quality of life in nursing students is crucial since it can improve their overall well-being and future care quality.

Diagnostic value of salivary tumor markers in breast, lung and ovarian cancer

Background: Breast and ovarian cancers, the most common cancers in women are expected to rise in the next decade. Ovarian cancer is a "silent killer" because of its heterogeneity and asymptomatic early stage. It is currently the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths in women, making it the most deadly gynecological malignancy. Objective: To determine the diagnostic value of salivary tumor markers in breast, Lung and Ovarian cancer Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at General Hospital Lahore, Pakistan, which was performed between September 2023 to July 2024, The total number of patients in our study were 120. The number of female patients in our study were 120. For all patients, we did diagnostic tests, blood test and Biopsies. We also took the stages of cancer for breast, lung and ovary. We took the symptoms and causes for all patients. We excluded children and pregnant women in our study. Data was tabulated and analyzed by SPSS version 27. Result: In a current study total 120 patients were enrolled. The minimum age of patients were 47 years and the maximum age of the patients were 63 years. The mean age were 54.15±5.354 years. The minimum BMI (Kg/m2) of patients were 31 years and the maximum BMI of the patients were 39 years. The mean BMI were 34.60±2.468 (Kg/m2). The frequency of breast cancer in situ were 3 patients and nill patients were 75 and its percentage were 62%. The breast cancer stage I were present in 12 patients , stage II were 24 patients and Stage III were 6 Patients. P-value were less than 0.04. The frequency of nil patients number in lung cancer were 90 and its percentage were 75%. The frequency of stage I lung cancer were 6 , stage II were 12, stage III were 6 and stage IV were 6 and its percentage were 5%. P-value were <0.02. The frequency of metastasis PM1 in the lung were 5 and in the ovary were 2. Over all P-Value in our study were < 0.05. Conclusion: Saliva would be an excellent diagnostic tool to help cancer patients live longer and with better quality of life. Saliva-omics prove to be a good diagnostic tool for ovarian cancer at early stage. In our study Metastasis PM1 were more in lung as compared to breast and ovary

Members’ Awareness in Financial Management and Financial Performance of Tarlac College of Agriculture- Faculty Association-Multipurpose Cooperative

It is recognized that cooperatives help uplift the lives of their individual members. In a broader sense, this is one of the many ways in which people join together to create a better quality of life for themselves. The financial performance of the cooperative is essential for it measures how profitable the organization is, in a specific period. In this context, understanding the relationship between financial performance and the management skills of its leaders is important for overall success. This study was conducted to determine the financial performance and level of awareness in the financial management of the officers and management staff of Tarlac College of Agriculture Faculty Association Multipurpose Cooperative (TCA-FA MPC) at Tarlac Agricultural University. A total of eight (8) officers and staff served as respondents in this study. The study used a descriptive research method to describe the level of financial management awareness of its officers and management staff. The preliminary information was gathered using a questionnaire distributed personally to the respondents. The study divulged that the management staff and officers are aware of the financial management practices of the cooperative. Additionally, the cooperative's financial performance is contingent upon the extent of awareness with financial management practice.

Students’ Perceptions of Food Offer in Portuguese Canteens and Adherence to Mediterranean Diets

Abstract Adherence to healthy eating behaviors, as in the Mediterranean Diet, is related to a better quality of life, better educational performance, and reduced risk of physical illness among higher education students. The provision of good quality and sustainable food is imperative in university environments. Nevertheless, the availability of healthy options tends to be limited across campuses (e.g., affordable fast food; the convenience of high-sugary foods in vending machines), including university canteens. Understanding students’ views on canteens and the factors that prevent them from embracing healthy eating habits may help to improve the food supply on campuses. In the present study, we aimed to examine students’ perceptions of canteen services and its food supply and to verify students’ knowledge and promptness to comply with a Mediterranean Diet menu. A large sample of academic students from Portuguese universities answered an online survey with a mixed approach. Specifically, participants were requested to characterize their dietary practices and report their perceptions about food services and offers in campus canteens. Additionally, students were asked about their knowledge, perceptions, and adherence to Mediterranean Diet. Our findings allow us to map perceptions and attitudes regarding food offered in university canteens and to identify the potential to adhere to more sustainable and healthier food patterns according to individual. Moreover, we identified the main psychological and environmental barriers to adhering Mediterranean Diet. Correlational data indicated a relationship between health-related measures and food-related factors. Advancing data about modifiable factors associated with better adherence to healthy dietary habits in the university context informs the development of actions/interventions to prevent unhealthy food choices and overcome limited and unhealthy food offers in canteen campuses.

TRATAMENTO COM METILFENIDATO E LISDEXANFETAMINA EM ADULTOS COM TDAH: UMA REVISÃO DA LITERATURA

Introduction: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that, although frequently diagnosed in childhood, can persist into adulthood. ADHD has negative impacts on the quality of life and functioning of daily activities of individuals with this pathology. Treatment aims to improve the clinical and social condition and pharmacological treatment associated with non-pharmacological measures is recommended. Among pharmacotherapy, psychostimulants are the most recommended, with the first and second drugs being methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) or lisdexamfetamine (Venvanse), respectively. However, these medications can have different effects, especially when consumed in the long term. Methodology: Articles published in journals indexed in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO), National Library of Medicine/NLM (MEDLINE), UpToDate and National Library of Medicine/NLM (PUBMED) databases and websites recognized worldwide in the period 2014 were evaluated. to 2024. Results: After completing the data collection phase, 47 relevant articles were identified to compose the analysis of the proposed topic. Discussion: Based on the articles cited, it was observed that psychostimulants have good efficacy in treating ADHD, however, few studies have evaluated their long-term effects and with a significant number of study participants. Conclusion: Adults with ADHD should receive adequate treatment, aiming for a better quality of life and both methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine are good therapeutic options, proving to be relatively effective and safe.

Effects of Dapagliflozin on myocardial performance in non-diabetic patients with Heart failure with reduced and mid-range ejection fraction (DAPA ECHO trial)

Abstract Background Sodium-glucose cotransporter type-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) showed to reduced morbidity andmortality in HF patients. The aim of this study was to assess potential effects of dapagliflozin in non-diabetic patients with heart failure (HF) with reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF and HFmrEF) on cardiac function assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE). Methods This randomized, prospective, single-center, open-label trial compared consecutive non-diabetic outpatients with HFrEF or HFmrEF receiving dapagliflozin with patients treated with optimal medical therapy (OMT) except SGLT2i (Fig.1). Primary endpoint was the modification of left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS), diastolic function (as peak atrial longitudinal strain, PALS) and right ventricular (RV) function by STE from baseline to 6 months. Cardiovascular events and parameters of congestion were assessed as safety-exploratory endpoints. Results Overall, 88 patients (38% HFmrEF) were enrolled and randomized to start dapagliflozin on top of OMT (n=44) or to continue with OMT (n=44). All STE values improved in dapagliflozin group after 6 months, while there was a non-significant improvement in OMT group (Fig.1). Moreover, when comparing the modification of STE parameters at follow up in HFrEF and HFmrEF patients, only the main treatment effect resulted statistically significant in both groups (p<0.0001), indicating a significant difference between dapagliflozin and OMT. Conclusions This study provided randomized data on the beneficial effect of dapagliflozin in non-diabetic patients with HFrEF and HFmrEF in terms of myocardial performance measured by the most sensitive echocardiographic technique i.e. STE. This suggests its usefulness for LV reverse remodeling and better quality of life in patients with HFrEF and HFmrEF.

AVALIAÇÃO DA QUALIDADE DE VIDA E APOIO FAMILIAR NO PACIENTE DIAGNOSTICADO COM CÂNCER DE MAMA

Breast cancer is the main cause of death in the female population in almost all regions of Brazil, in addition to being an important global public health problem, due to high incidence and morbidity rates. The aim of the work is to evaluate the quality of life and psychosocial support of patients diagnosed with breast cancer. It refers to an observational study, in which interviews were carried out with women diagnosed with breast cancer treated at the Hospital Regional de Presidente Prudente. It was observed that the more negative the patients' self-perception was in relation to the support they received, their ability to carry out daily activities and their post-surgical mood, the worse their self-perception of quality of life was. This study highlights the importance of adopting multidisciplinary, patient-centered approaches and promoting a support network, which are essential for women to have a better quality of life.

Inhaled Reliever Therapies for Asthma

The optimal inhaled reliever therapy for asthma remains unclear. To compare short-acting β agonists (SABA) alone with SABA combined with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and with the fast-onset, long-acting β agonist formoterol combined with ICS for asthma. The MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases were searched from January 1, 2020, to September 27, 2024, without language restrictions. Pairs of reviewers independently selected randomized clinical trials evaluating (1) SABA alone, (2) ICS with formoterol, and (3) ICS with SABA (combined or separate inhalers). Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Random-effects meta-analyses synthesized outcomes. GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) was used to evaluate the certainty of evidence. Asthma symptom control (5-item Asthma Control Questionnaire; range, 0-6, lower scores indicate better asthma control; minimum important difference [MID], 0.5 points), asthma-related quality of life (Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire; range, 1-7, higher scores indicate better quality of life; MID, 0.5 points), risk of severe exacerbations, and risk of serious adverse events. A total of 27 randomized clinical trials (N = 50 496 adult and pediatric patients; mean age, 41.0 years; 20 288 male [40%]) were included. Compared with SABA alone, both ICS-containing relievers were associated with fewer severe exacerbations (ICS-formoterol risk ratio [RR], 0.65 [95% CI, 0.60-0.72]; risk difference [RD], -10.3% [95% CI, -11.8% to -8.3%]; ICS-SABA RR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.73-0.95]; RD, -4.7% [95% CI, -8.0% to -1.5%]) with high certainty. Compared with SABA alone, both ICS-containing relievers were associated with improved asthma control (ICS-formoterol RR improvement [MID] in total score, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.04-1.10]; RD, 4.1% [95% CI, 2.3%-5.9%]; ICS-SABA RR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.03-1.15]; RD, 5.4% [95% CI, 1.8%-8.5%]) with high certainty. In an indirect comparison with ICS-SABA, ICS-formoterol was associated with fewer severe exacerbations (RR, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.66-0.92]; RD, -5.5% [95% CI, -8.4% to -2.0%]) with moderate certainty. Compared with SABA alone, ICS-formoterol (RD, -0.6% [95% CI, -1.3% to 0%]) was not associated with increased risk of serious adverse events (high certainty) and ICS-SABA (RD, 0% [95% CI, -1.1% to 1.2%]) was not associated with increased risk of serious adverse events (moderate certainty). In this network meta-analysis of patients with asthma, ICS combined with formoterol and ICS combined with SABA were each associated with reduced asthma exacerbations and improved asthma control compared with SABA alone.

Does perceived usability of a multi-component mobile device intervention improve health-related quality of life?

Abstract Background Good health-related quality of life (HRQL) is essential to healthy aging. Prior studies have demonstrated that mobile device technologies can promote HRQL in older adults. However, evidence of technology acceptance in older adults is often inconsistent and poorly understood. Purpose This study aims to 1) describe technology acceptance using efficiency, learnability, user experience (i.e., acceptability), and perceived control from the USABILITY survey of a multi-component mobile device intervention consisting of a wearable activity tracker (Fitbit Versa), access to Lose It app, and text messages (for experimental group only) in older adults at risk for cardiovascular disease, and 2) examine the correlation between technology acceptance and changes in HRQL before and after using each component of the digital intervention. Methods Data were collected using a purpose-built technology usability survey, and HRQL was assessed using the 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12), which measured perceived physical and mental health. Correlations were used to identify associations between technology acceptance and HRQL. Results The mean age of participants (n=54) was 65.4 ± 6.0 years; a majority were females (60%), married (53%), Hispanic (66%), and had a high school education or higher (76%). Table 1 shows that the experimental group had considerably higher HRQL at three months, but no differences in technology acceptance were noted. Fitbit technology adoption was found to be correlated with physical HRQL (r=304, p=0.027). The Lose It app showed no correlation with HRQL. Despite receiving higher usability ratings, SMS messages were not correlated with physical or mental HRQL. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that older persons at risk for cardiovascular disease find mobile device intervention components acceptable. However, each component affected physical and mental health differently. These findings inform more complete technology acceptance models for older individuals' technology design, education, and deployment. Older persons prefer personalized communication, such as customized text messages, as the most favored aspect of the multi-component mobile device intervention. It warrants a larger clinical trial to determine its efficacy on HRQL.

Case report: Significant response of alpha-fetoprotein-producing gastric cancer from combined chemotherapy and immunotherapy

BackgroundAlpha-fetoprotein-producing gastric cancer (AFPGC) represents a particularly aggressive subtype of gastric carcinoma characterized by elevated rates of vascular invasion, lymphatic dissemination, hepatic metastasis, and an unfavorable clinical outcome. Treatment strategies for AFPGC have historically lacked specificity. Herein, a case is presented involving AFPGC in which the patient exhibited a notable response to combined anti-PD-1 antibody immunotherapy and SOX chemotherapy, potentially achieving a cure. This report marks the first application of this regimen in neoadjuvant therapy for AFP gastric cancer, followed by radical resection and postoperative adjuvant therapy.Case summaryA 62-year-old male patient presented with persistent upper abdominal distension and discomfort lasting over 2 months. Initial investigations revealed markedly elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, and subsequent pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of AFPGC via gastroscopy. Due to the patient’s condition, surgical resection was initially deemed unfeasible. Therefore, a chemo-immunotherapy regimen consisting of SOX chemotherapy and the PD-1 inhibitor tislelizumab was administered for 3 cycles. Following this, successful laparoscopic radical gastrectomy was performed. The treatment protocol was continued with an additional 3 cycles postoperatively. At the time of this case report, the patient maintained a good quality of life with no evidence of disease recurrence or adverse events.ConclusionThe present report highlights a case of AFPGC where significant therapeutic success was achieved through a combined regimen of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, both before and after surgery. The use of anti-PD-1 antibody (tislelizumab) in combination with SOX regimen (S-1 and oxaliplatin) demonstrated effective treatment of AFPGC, potentially offering a curative approach. This approach represents a promising targeted therapy option for patients with AFPGC.

Health behaviour and well-being in the Faroe Islands prior to and during the first COVID-19 lockdown

Abstract Detrimental effects on health and well-being were reported during the COVID-19-induced lockdown periods in several countries, but these associations have not been studied in small-scale island societies. This study aimed to examine the lockdown period’s impact on health behaviour, social media use and measures of well-being in the Faroe Islands. We used cross-sectional data from two extensive population-based surveys of public health conducted in November 2019, the pre-COVID survey (n = 2906), and 4-6 weeks into the first national lockdown, the lockdown survey (n = 1204). A larger proportion of participants in the lockdown vs. pre-COVID survey people reported high physical activity levels (42.1 vs 30.7% p < 0.001), while nutritional habits were rated worse and social media usage increased. Furthermore, the proportion displaying excellent/very good self-rated health was larger in the lockdown vs. pre-COVID survey (68.1 vs 62.0% p < 0.001), and the same pattern was observed for reporting good quality of life (85.7 vs 82.7% p < 0.05). These associations remained statistically significant in a logistic regression model after adjusting for characteristics for which varying impact of the pandemic has been shown. Indicators of health behaviour showed that larger proportions of participants kept active during the lockdown vs pre-COVID survey, and these differences were statistically significant for physical, mental, and spiritual activities (p < 0.001). On the other hand, similar stress levels in the pre-COVID/lockdown periods were observed, but stratified analysis showed that participants with a high-stress level displayed better self-rated health in the lockdown period compared to the pre-COVID period (p = 0.001). Conclusions Findings indicate that self-reported health and quality of life improved during the early phase of the COVID lockdown, and individuals reported higher activity levels associated with good mental health during the COVID-19-induced lockdown period. Key messages • Physical activity improved, but dietary habits worsened during initial COVID-19 lockdown in the Faroe Islands. • Measures of wellbeing and quality of life improved during initial COVID-19 lockdown in the Faroe Islands, while there was no overall difference regarding stress levels.

Associated factors and outcomes for quality of life in children receiving cochlear implantation before seven years of age.

To evaluate the relationship of cochlear implant-related factors with quality of life (QOL) outcomes in pediatric cochlear implantation (CI) recipients. In this cross-sectional study, data from 146 children who received CI before 7 years of age were collected. QOL was measured using the Children using Hearing Implants Quality of Life (CuHI-QoL) questionnaire. Auditory and language abilities were measured using categories of auditory performance II(CAP-II) scale and speech intelligibility rating (SIR) scale. The reliability and validity of the CuHI-QOL scale were tested using internal consistency tests and correlation analysis, respectively. Bivariate correlations were used to compare CuHI-QOL scores and educational placements to cochlear implant-related factors. QOL scores were further compared using ANOVA in different groups based on age at CI with different durations of implant use. The mean total CuHI-QOL scores was 60.13 (SD 8.97). The Cronbach's alpha of overall CuHI-QOL scale was 0.820. The CuHI-QOL total score was strongly to moderately correlated with CAP score (r = 0.542), SIR score (r = 0.545), duration of implant use (r = 0.403), and educational placement (r = 0.478). ANOVA showed the CuHI-QOL scores after 5 years post-CI were higher than those less than 2 years post-CI in children implanted ≤ 3 years of age. Good QOL could be obtained for children with CI and were significantly associated with young age at implantation, good auditory and speech abilities, speech rehabilitation training pre-CI, long duration of cochlear implant use, and mainstream educational placement.

Melatonin and vitamin D as potential synergistic adjuvants for cancer therapy (Review).

Significant advancements have been made in cancer therapy; however, limitations remain with some conventional approaches. Adjuvants are agents used alongside primary treatments to enhance their efficacy and the treatment outcomes of patients. Modern lifestyles contribute to deficiencies in melatonin and vitamin D. Limited sun exposure affects vitamin D synthesis, and artificial light at night suppresses melatonin production. Both melatonin and vitamin D possess anti‑inflammatory, immune‑boosting and anticancer properties, rendering them potential adjuvants of interest. Studies suggest melatonin and vitamin D supplementation may address antioxidant imbalances in lip, oral and pharyngeal cancers. Moreover, promising results from breast, head and neck, brain, and osteosarcoma research indicate potential for tumor growth inhibition, improved survival, and a better quality of life of patients with cancer. The radioprotective properties of melatonin and vitamin D are another exciting area of exploration, potentially enhancing radiotherapy effectiveness while reducing side effects. For its part, the sleep‑promoting effects of melatonin may indirectly benefit patients with cancer by influencing the immune system. Thus, the prevalence of vitamin D and melatonin deficiencies highlights the importance of supplementation, as lower levels can worsen side‑effects from cancer treatments. The present review explores the potential of combining melatonin and vitamin D as synergistic adjuvants for cancer therapy. These agents have shown promise individually in cancer prevention and treatment, and their combined effects warrant investigation. Therefore, large‑scale controlled trials are crucial to definitively determine the optimal dosage, safety and efficacy of this combination in improving the lives of patients with cancer.

DENTAL MANAGEMENT IN PATIENTS WITH SYNDROMIC CRANIOSYNOSTOSIS; CASE REPORT

Introduction: Apert syndrome is a challenging syndromic condition for health care specialists because it affects the patient's overall physical, oral and behavioral health. Knowledge of the protocols to be followed and dental management by the operator of patients with AS are of great importance in the dental field, allowing for adequate and guided craniofacial and behavioral control of the patient. Objective: The objective of this article is to present a clinical case that shows an adequate treatment plan for a patient with Apert syndrome. Methodology: an objective description of the clinical case is made with analysis of a total of articles, including review and original articles, as well as clinical cases, of which 12 bibliographies were used because the other articles were not relevant for this study. The sources of information were indexed journals, as well as search engines such as PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane; the terms used for the information search were: Apert syndrome, acrocephalosyndactyly, craniosynostosis, dental care. Results: We report a 15-year-old female patient who presented the characteristic triad of Apert syndrome: craniosynostosis, facial malformations and symmetrical syndactyly. Conclusions: Knowledge of the disease by health professionals will be of vital importance in order to develop appropriate strategies and efficient care protocols for patients with Apert syndrome, resulting in a better quality of life for the patient in the short and long term. KEY WORDS: acrocephalosyndactyly, craniosynostosis, dental care.

Hubungan Kepatuhan Minum Obat dengan Kualitas Hidup Pasien TB Paru di Puskesmas Mustika Jaya Tahun 2023

Pulmonary tuberculosis is caused by a Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, which attacks the lungs and causes respiratory issues such as chronic cough and shortness of breath. This study aims to analyze the relationship between medication adherence and the quality of life of pulmonary TB patients at Mustika Jaya Public Health Center in 2023. The research design is observational analytic with a cross-sectional approach, using a sample of 78 TB patients selected through purposive sampling. The instruments used include the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) for medication adherence and the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire for quality of life assessment. Chi-square test results showed a significant relationship between medication adherence and quality of life, with a p-value of 0.00. A total of 51.7% of patients who adhered to their medication had a good quality of life. In conclusion, there is a significant positive relationship between medication adherence and quality of life in pulmonary TB patients at Mustika Jaya Health Center in 2023.

Prediction of Aphasia Outcome Using Low Frequency Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Post-Stroke Non-Fluent Aphasia

Background: Stroke, a global health concern, often leads to language impairment (aphasia). In Egypt, with a high stroke prevalence, aphasia affects a significant number of survivors. Noninvasive techniques like repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) show promise in rehabilitation. Cultural variations in test results emphasize the need for region-specific considerations in standardized assessments for post-stroke care. Aim of the work: To evaluate the role of low frequency rTMS to speed up the recovery of post-stroke aphasia for a better quality of life. Patients and Methods: This randomized clinical trial investigates the effects of (rTMS) on post-stroke aphasia. Patients with post-stroke non-fluent aphasia were divided into two groups, with one receiving inhibitory rTMS and the other sham sessions. Inclusion criteria involve adults with a single left hemisphere stroke, while exclusion criteria include prior strokes. The study includes comprehensive assessments for aphasia, and depression. The stimulation protocol involves 20 minutes of daily rTMS for ten days, targeting the right inferior frontal gyrus. The study aims to evaluate the rTMS impact on language recovery. Results: The study evaluated low-frequency rTMS for post-stroke aphasia recovery in 30 patients, comparing TMS and sham groups. No significant demographic or cerebrovascular risk factor differences were found. While rTMS group showed improvement in depression, there were no significant differences between TMS and sham groups in aphasia improvement. Conclusion: Low-frequency rTMS demonstrated no significant superiority over sham stimulation in post-stroke aphasia recovery. Both groups exhibited improved depression without notable distinctions.

Acne-Related Quality of Life and Mental Health Among Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide among adolescents. Beyond its physical manifestations, acne can leave invisible psychological scars. We aimed to examine the protective and risk factors of acne-related quality of life, and its association with mental health outcomes. The analysis included data collected in 2023 from adolescents enrolled in the SEROCoV-KIDS population-based cohort. By combining the Acne Severity and Acne-Quality of Life (Acne-QoL) scales, three groups were established: Acne-LowAQoL (adolescents with acne and low Acne-related Quality of Life), Acne-HighAQoL, and NoAcne-HighAQoL. We used multinomial and logistic regression to assess the association between health behaviours, these groups, and mental health outcomes. Among 335 adolescents (mean age 16.1 years [SD 1.8], 56% female), 65 (19.4%) reported experiencing acne while maintaining a high Acne-QoL, 26 (7.7%) reported having acne and a low Acne-QoL and 244 (72.9%) reported having nearly no acne. Low engagement in physical activity (aOR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.12-0.77), addictive use of social media (aOR: 3.78, 95%CI: 1.60-8.96), and prolonged screen time (aOR: 2.99, 95%CI: 1.26-7.08) were independently associated with Acne-LowAQoL. Conversely, those from the group Acne-HighAQoL reported higher social support (aOR: 1.95, 95%CI: 1.07-3.54). Adolescents with Acne-LowAQoL showed lower levels of self-esteem, resilience, and increased psychological distress. Among adolescents with acne, physical activity and social support were positively associated with good acne-related quality of life, which translated into better mental health. In contrast, screen time and social media use notably reduced it. Dermatologists should incorporate these considerations into clinical practice to ensure effective patient care.

Remoção de fragmento metálico intracanal: relato de caso

The purpose of endodontics is to promote the elimination of bacteria and their by-products from inside the root canal so that the infection is stopped and the functions of the dental elements are maintained. Endodontic treatment has a high success rate and, therefore, protocols must be followed. However, during the stages of the endodontic procedure, the professional is subject to errors, either due to instrument failures and/or root anatomy of the tooth, or due to the dentist's lack of skill/knowledge. The present study aims to present, report and discuss a clinical case of a 62-year-old patient, of fracture of an endodontic instrument, more precisely of a metal tip or an irrigation syringe, in element 23, attended at the IAES Dental Clinic, which After carrying out clinical and radiographic examinations, the recommended protocol was endodontic treatment of the root canal. The result of the treatment was satisfactory, as it maintained the integrity of the dental element, promoting oral health and a better quality of life for the patient