HADS Scores Research Articles

Microbiota alterations are related to migraine food triggers and inflammatory markers in chronic migraine patients with medication overuse headache

ObjectiveChronic migraine (CM) patients with medication overuse headache (MOH) were recently shown to be associated with leaky gut and inflammation. We aimed to investigate gut microbiota profiles of CM patients with MOH, and their correlations with inflammatory serum parameters, migraine food triggers, and comorbid anxiety and depression.Materials and methodsThe study included women participants (32 CM patients with NSAID overuse headache, and 16 healthy non-headache sufferers). Migraine duration, monthly migraine headache days, presence of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, and HADS-D and HADS-A scores were recorded. Serum samples were collected to measure circulating LPS, HMGB1, HIF-1α, and IL-6. The gut microbiota profiles of the patients were evaluated using fecal samples.ResultsSerum LPS, HMGB1, HIF-1α, and IL-6 levels were significantly higher in the CM + MOH group compared to the healthy controls. HADS-A and HADS-D scores were considerably higher in the CM + MOH group compared to the healthy controls. In the microbiota analysis, alpha and beta diversities were similar between the two groups. The class Clostridia, the order Eubacteriales, and the genus Ruminococcus were less abundant in the CM + NSAID overuse headache group compared to the control group. At the genus level Desulfovibrio, Gemmiger, and Dialister and at the species level, Clostridium fessum, Blautia luti, Dorea longicatena, Eubacterium coprostanoligenes, and Gemmiger formicilis were more abundant in the CM + NSAID overuse headache group compared to the control group. Desulfovibrio, Gemmiger, Dialister, Ethanoligenens harbinense, Eubacterium coprostanoligenes, Dorea longicatena, and Thermoclostridium stercorarium showed positive correlations and Clostridia bacteria showed negative correlations with migraine food triggers. Positive correlations were found between LPS and Hapalosiphonaceae, HMGB1 and Melghirimyces, HIF1-α and Rouxeilla and Blautia luti, IL-6 and Melghirimyces and Ruminococcus.ConclusionIn CM patients with MOH, we have revealed the presence of dysbiosis towards an inflammatory state, and positive correlations were shown between altered gut microbiota and inflammatory serum parameters and migraine food triggers.

Anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality in COVID-19 survivors of the first year of the pandemic

Abstract Background Psychological outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infection have been reported primarily among patients with post-COVID-19 condition followed at COVID-specific clinics who may not represent the population of COVID-19 survivors. This study compares the frequency, 2 years after infection, of symptoms of anxiety and depression and poor sleep quality between COVID-19 survivors from the first year of the pandemic and comparison groups matched for sex, age, and level of care. Methods Participants are users of the Local Health Unit of Matosinhos (comprising almost all citizens of this municipality) classified according to hospitalization and SARS-CoV-2 infection between March, 2020 and February, 2021 in 4 groups: group#1, hospitalized due to COVID-19 (n = 101); group#2, hospitalized, uninfected (n = 87); group#3, infected, non-hospitalized (n = 252); group#4, uninfected, non-hospitalized (n = 258). They were evaluated between July, 2022 and October, 2023, with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A, anxiety, and HADS-D, depression) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Logistic regression was used to compute OR and 95%CI adjusted for sex, age, education, marital status, employment, smoking, and level of care of the associations between the study group and clinically significant symptoms of anxiety (HADS-A scores>10), depression (HADS-D scores>10) and poor sleep (PSQI scores>5). Results No significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed for the prevalence of clinically significant symptoms of depression (overall 9.2%) and poor sleep quality (overall 59.8%) between SARS-COV-2 infected participants and comparison groups, but HADS-A scores>10 were more frequent in infected individuals (19.3% vs. 13.6%; OR = 1.92; 95%CI:1.21,3.05). Conclusions Healthcare services should pay special attention to COVID-19 survivors from the first year of the pandemic to identify and treat anxiety symptoms. Funding: FCT UIDB/ 04750/2020 LA/P/0064/2020 PTDC/SAU-EPI/6275/2020 Key messages • COVID-19 survivors from the 1st year of the pandemic present more frequently high levels of anxiety than the general population 2 years after COVID-19. • Specific care for anxiety symptoms are needed for COVID-19 survivors from the 1st year of the pandemic

Impact of HADS Anxiety and Depression Scores on the Efficacy of Dietary Interventions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Anxiety and depression are associated strongly with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Dietary therapies are used increasingly in the management of IBS, but the impact of common mental disorders on response to these has not been well studied. To examine whether symptoms compatible with common mental disorders influence response to dietary interventions. Prospective cohort study of adults, with either diarrhoea-predominant or mixed bowel habits, IBS Severity Scoring System [IBS-SSS] score ≥ 75 points. Participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression score (HADS) and attended initially for British Dietary Association advice for IBS. IBS-SSS was re-checked 3 months later to assess response. If primary endpoint (≥ 50 point decrease in IBS-SSS) was not achieved, patients were offered low fermentable oligo-, di- and monosaccharides and polyol diet and repeated IBS-SSS after another 3 months. Secondary endpoints included of change in IBS-SSS and effect of symptom severity on response. In total, 448 patients took part, average age of 42 years and 79.0% were female. 69.9% of participants had HADS-A scores ≥ 8 and 39.3% with HADS-D scores ≥ 8. Average IBS-SSS score at baseline was 290 (SD 86). No significant difference was noted in achievement of the primary endpoint according to HADS-A scores (53.4% vs. 62.2% by ITT in those with HADS-A ≥ 8 vs. HADS-A < 8, p = 0.09). Patients with HADS-D ≥ 8 were significantly less likely to achieve the primary endpoint compared with those with HADS-D < 8 (43.8% vs. 64.0% by ITT, p < 0.01). Understanding psychological profile of patients can help predicting their response to IBS dietary interventions.

Music therapy with adult burn patients in the intensive care unit: short-term analysis of electrophysiological signals during music-assisted relaxation

Burn patients often face elevated pain, anxiety, and depression levels. Music therapy adds to integrative care in burn patients, but research including electrophysiological measures is limited. This study reports electrophysiological signals analysis during Music-Assisted Relaxation (MAR) with burn patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This study is a sub-analysis of an ongoing trial of music therapy with burn patients in the ICU. Electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocardiogram (ECG), and electromyogram (EMG) were recorded during MAR with nine burn patients. Additionally, background pain levels (VAS) and anxiety and depression levels (HADS) were assessed. EEG oscillation power showed statistically significant changes in the delta (p < 0.05), theta (p = 0.01), beta (p < 0.05), and alpha (p = 0.05) bands during music therapy. Heart rate variability tachograms high-frequencies increased (p = 0.014), and low-frequencies decreased (p = 0.046). Facial EMG mean frequency decreased (p = 0.01). VAS and HADS scores decreased − 0.76 (p = 0.4) and − 3.375 points (p = 0.37) respectively. Our results indicate parasympathetic system activity, attention shifts, reduced muscle tone, and a relaxed state of mind during MAR. This hints at potential mechanisms of music therapy but needs to be confirmed in larger studies. Electrophysiological changes during music therapy highlight its clinical relevance as a complementary treatment for ICU burn patients.Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04571255). Registered September 24th, 2020. https//classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04571255.

Leptin, ghrelin and high-molecular-weight adiponectin in relation to anxiety in older adults

BackgroundLeptin and ghrelin have been linked to depressive symptoms in older adults. There is a large overlap between depression and anxiety in this group. It is unclear whether the same associations exist with anxiety. Adiponectin has an inverse association with anxiety in older adults. However, the association between the most biologically active isoform - high-molecular-weight (HMW) adiponectin - and anxiety has not been previously reported. MethodsWe analyzed the association between leptin, ghrelin and HMW adiponectin and general symptoms of anxiety (HADS-A score ≥ 7) at baseline and after three years of follow-up in a population based cohort of older adults in the Netherlands (n = 898) using multivariable logistic regression analyses. ResultsFor leptin there was significant effect modification by sex. We found a positive association between leptin and general symptoms of anxiety in men at baseline and after three years of follow-up after adjusting for depressive symptoms, when comparing the third to the first leptin tertile (T3 vs T1 OR 3.40, 95 % CI 1.08 – 10.78).We found no significant associations for ghrelin.HMW adiponectin was associated with general symptoms of anxiety at follow up. We found a positive association both before and after adjustment for depressive symptoms (T3 vs T1 OR 3.26, 95 % CI 1.36 – 7.83). ConclusionsOur results showed significant associations in men only between leptin and HMW adiponectin and general symptoms of anxiety after three years of follow up. Our findings contribute to further insight into the pathophysiology of anxiety in older adults. However, further research is necessary as we show associations.

Long-Term Treatment for Unspecified Anxiety Disorders with Cannabidiol: A Retrospective Case Series from Real-World Evidence in Colombia

Introduction: Preclinical and clinical evidence has elucidated that cannabis-based medical formulations (CBMFs) may display anxiolytic, antidepressive, and neuroprotective properties. CBMFs are often considered as novel therapeutic anxiolytic agents that can be prescribed as pharmacotherapy for symptomatic domains in anxiety disorders (ADs). Our aim was to explore effectiveness and tolerability of enriched cannabidiol (CBD) oil extract formulations in adults with anxiety symptoms in an outpatient mental health program in Colombia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We conducted an observational, retrospective, real-world evidence case series from electronic health records at Zerenia Clinic in Bogotá, Colombia between June 2021 and December 2022. Our convenience sample consisted of people searching for CBMFs for the treatment of anxiety symptoms. A cohort of 24 adults was prescribed with enriched CBD in the form of non-sterile oral liquids suspended in sesame seed oil extracts for DSM-5 unspecified anxiety disorder and followed throughout the first year of treatment. CBMFs were prepared by dissolving full-spectrum cannabis extracts in sesame seed oil to a standardized concentration of active ingredients which is CBD-enriched. The oil extract contained 100 mg/mL of CBD and less than 1.9 mg/mL of THC. Primary outcome measures established were the anxiety subscale in the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A), and the clinical global impression scale with regard to severity (CGI-S) and improvement (CGI-I) at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months during follow-up. Secondary outcome measures established were HADS depression subscale (HADS-D) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), respectively. Participants also completed the patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) during each visit throughout the 12-month follow-up. PROMs documented both participantʼs subjective improvement experience and progressive adverse effects. Results: After 6 months of treatment with sublingually administered enriched CBD oil extracts in a median dosage of 100 mg, more than half (54.17%) of the sample continued to report significant anxiety symptoms. After 12 months, only 37.50% persisted with significant anxiety symptoms with a median dose of 120 mg of enriched CBD oil extracts. Similar subjective improvements were reported with regard to sleep disturbances (SDs) as a secondary outcome. At baseline, less than half (46.83%) of the sample reported significant daytime sleepiness. After 6 months of enriched CBD oil extract treatment, less than one third (29.17%) continued to report SDs. At end point, a high proportion of the sample (87.50%) were considered to have normal daytime sleepiness. The cohort showed no clinically relevant depressive symptoms at baseline based on HADS-D scores; therefore, no improvement could be reported throughout the 12-month follow-up. Minimal gender differences with regard to HADS-D scores may be attributed to modifying effects of menopause-related symptoms. No significant adverse drug reactions or deaths were reported during the 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: Further research should determine the long-term efficacy, safety, and appropriate dosages of enriched CBD oil extracts in treating specific ADs rather than broad and unspecified anxiety symptoms. The state of the art of CBMFs for ADs should be warranted by future randomized controlled trials. The next stage for cannabis research should be focused in performing head-to-head trials comparing enriched CBD extracts or capsules versus first-line treatments proven to be effective in ADs.

Comparative analysis of Health-Related Quality of Life, anxiety and depression in patients with alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis and with association of these diseases

Introduction. Alopecia areata (AA) and atopic dermatitis (AtD) are associated with significant psychosocial burden, emphasizing the importance of quality of life (QoL) assessment due to potential psychological distress and treatment hindrance.Aim. To conduct a comparative analysis of QoL, anxiety and depression in patients with AA, AtD and their combination, according to diseases severity.Materials and methods. The study included 91 patients of both sexes (18–52 years old). All patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1 – 25% patients with AA, group 2 – 28% with AtD, group 3 – 47% patients with both diseases; the groups were subdivided by dermatoses severity. The DLQI, Skindex-29 and HADS questionnaires were used. Mann-Whitney U-test was conducted to compare the mean values of quantitative data (М ± n) (p &lt; 0.05).Results. Group 1 had moderately decreased QoL according to DLQI (6.5 ± 0.67); total Skindex-29 score was 23.55 ± 2.46 (low impact) with the highest value in the emotion domain. In group 2 DLQI score was 12.5 ± 1.51, total Skindex-29 score was48.41 ± 3.76; in group 3 DLQI was 11.5 ± 0.58, Skindex-29 – 50.46 ± 2.14. These values corresponded to very negative impact on QoL, increasing with diseases severity. There was a reliable difference in DLQI and Skindex-29 values between groups 1 and 2 and groups 1 and 3. Mean HADS scores in all groups were generally comparable and correlated with AtD and AA severity.Conclusion. Compared to AA, AtD has a greater impact on QoL, involving all areas of social health; AA predominantly affects emotional sphere. The presence of both diseases worsens QoL as well as AtD alone, especially in aspects “emotions” and “functions”.

Endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy: impact of long-standing disease on surgical outcomes.

To assess whether the duration of disease may influence the surgical success of Endonasal Endoscopic DCR (EE-DCR) in patients affected by nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). Single-center observational retrospective analysis on EE-DCR via posterior trans-ethmoidal approach. Consecutive patients were enrolled in 2021-2024 and evaluated with proper questionnaires; resolution of epiphora and dacryocystitis were analyzed after 1 (T1) and 6-months (T2) from surgery. Surgical success was defined as anatomical (patency at irrigation, no recurring dacryocystitis) or complete (zeroing of Munk score). Also, patients were asked to complete the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at each timepoint. The sample was divided based on the duration of disease (group A: ≤ 24 months, group B: > 24 months). Ninety-one patients were included. At baseline no differences were observed between the two groups. At both timepoints, Munk score was significantly lower in Group A compared to Group B, while a difference in dacryocystitis rate was observed only at T2. Anxiety scores differed significantly at T2, although no differences were observed for depression. At paired analysis, all groups improved significantly at T1 compared to baseline, whereas no further improvement was observed between T2 and T1. A significantly higher improvement was observed in group A for the Munk and HADS-A scores over timepoints, whereas there was no significance for dacryocystitis rate and HADS-D. Also, group A showed a higher complete success rate compared to group B (p = 0.041). Finally, linear regression confirmed a positive relationship between Munk and anxiety scores and the duration of disease at T2. Our findings showed that long-lasting NLDO symptoms may be associated with worse EE-DCR surgical outcomes.

Effects of pain, hospitalization, and medication on depressive symptom in Syrian patients with chronic diseases

Chronic diseases and pain exacerbate depressive symptom in Syria. Limited research on hospital-induced depressive symptom among Syrian patients with chronic diseases warrants further study. A cross-sectional study in four Damascus hospitals revealed high rates of pain and depressive symptom. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and severity of chronic pain and hospital-induced depressive symptom in Syrian patients, as well as the relationship between pain, depressive symptom, and medication behavior. This study analyzes the impact of pain, hospitalization, and medication on patients with chronic diseases. The four Damascus hospitals included 453 patients from various departments. Data were collected through structured interviews and internationally recognized scales such as the PSEQ, HADS, and MMAS. These findings offer insights into pain management and psychological well-being, with implications for patient care and support strategies. The study involved 453 patients with chronic diseases, with gender distribution showing 46.6% females and 53.4% males. The age range was from 7 to 87 years, with an average of 46.87 years. Chi-square tests revealed a significant connection between gender and HADS-A scores, where 48.3% of females had abnormalities (χ2 (1, N = 453) = 7.125, p = 0.028). Marital status was significantly associated with anxiety and depressive symptom levels, particularly among widowed and divorced patients. Employment status, education, and comorbidity were linked to abnormal HADS-A scores, while education level showed a positive correlation with HADS-D scores. ANOVA tests showed significant differences in MMAS scores across income groups (F (3, 449) = 3.167, p = 0.024), with a notable difference between low-income and lower-middle-income groups (mean difference = 0.389, p = 0.031. Chronic pain and HID are prevalent among Syrian patients with chronic diseases and influenced by socio-demographic factors. Personalized interventions are needed to address psychological symptoms and medication behavior.

Relationship of myofascial trigger points with related disability, anxiety, and depression in patients with migraine headaches

BackgroundMigraine affects one in ten individuals worldwide and is the second leading cause of disability. Studies have shown an association between migraine and the musculoskeletal system, and myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) play an essential role. Additionally, those with myofascial pain have been proven to experience higher levels of depression and anxiety. Understanding the association between MTrPs and migraine is crucial for developing targeted treatment strategies. Additionally, recognizing the link between MTrPs and migraine-related depression and anxiety underscores the importance of a holistic approach to migraine management. By addressing both musculoskeletal and neurological factors, healthcare providers can provide more effective and personalized care for migraine patients. This study aims to determine the association between MTrPs with migraine-related disability, anxiety, depression, and migraine characteristics.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 68 migraine patients from an outpatient neurology clinic. The number of MTrPs was determined through examination by an experienced neurologist during a migraine-free period using the recommended international criteria. We evaluated anxiety and depression with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and disability with the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS).ResultsWe enrolled 68 patients (22 males) with a mean age of 36.23 ± 9.63 years. The mean number of MTrPs was 2.75 ± 2.934. MTrPs were positively correlated with severity (CC: 0.576, P-value < 0.001). There was no association between MTrPs and HADS-D or MIDAS, but migraine patients with abnormal HADS-A scores had more MTrPs than patients with normal HADS-A scores (0.6 ± 0.84 vs 3.56 ± 3.11, P-value:0.013).ConclusionsThe number of MTrPs is associated with higher anxiety levels and headache intensity. Further research could investigate the impact of MTrP-based therapies on anxiety among individuals suffering from migraines.

The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to Improve Anxiety Symptoms and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients.

Breast cancer patients often experience anxiety, impacting their Quality of Life (QOL) . Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a 3rd generation psychotherapy from CBT combined with MBSR where mindfulness methods are carried out in a structured and scheduled manner, able to provide a pause between the stressor and the automatic response it causes. This study aimed to assess MBCT's effectiveness in alleviating anxiety and enhancing QOL in Stage III breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, with mild-moderate anxiety disorders. The experimental research, conducted at Moewardi General Hospital Surakarta from March to June 2023, employed a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design. Thirty subjects were divided into intervention (MBCT) and control (psychoeducation) groups. Participants completed demographic forms, disease history, and assessments using the Hospital Anxiety & Depression Scale (HADS-A) and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30). There was a significant improvement in HADS-A scores in both groups (P <0.001) where the difference in the median HADS score in intervention group was higher compared to the control group. The effect of MBCT to the score improvement of HADS-A showed statistically significant results P=0.003 with HR 1.288. In the EORTC QLQ C30 Global score, the intervention group experienced a significant increase P<0.001, and in the control group, it did not significantly increase p=0.087 although multivariate analysis showed that MBCT was not significant in improving the global EORTC score. From the continued multivariate analysis of the EORTC QLQ C30 function, score improvement was significantly influenced by MBCT with P=0.035 and HR 3.086. Meanwhile, for the EORTC symptoms, score improvement was influenced by MBCT with P=0.005 and HR3.401. There is a score improvement in HADS-A and EORTC with the provision of MBCT psychotherapy and with the provision of psychotherapy. However, the HADS and EORTC improvement scores were significantly higher with MBCT compared to psychotherapy alone.

The Treatment Expectation Questionnaire Tool: A Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Evaluation in Turkey.

Patients' general treatment expectations are an important indicator of the outcomes of the various treatments they will receive. There is a need for valid and reliable assessment tools that measure the expectations of patients receiving rehabilitation services. This study aimed to translate and validate the Treatment Expectations Questionnaire (TR.TEX-Q) in Turkish patients to assess their treatment-specific expectations. 150 physiotherapy patients were enrolled in the study. The original version of the Treatment Expectation Questionnaire was translated into Turkish. Cronbach's α was used to investigate internal consistency. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to assess test-retest reliability. Pearsons's correlation was used to calculate convergent and divergent validity. Principal component analysis produced a 15-items scale which had a 6-factors structure. Cronbach's α values ranged from .649 to .879. Test-retest reliability was high for total score and for all subscales. The ICC was between .622 and .852, p < .001. TR.TEX-Q showed good convergent validity, a moderate correlation was found between the Positivity Scale (rho = .45, p < .001). For divergent validity, low to moderate correlation was found between the TR.TEX-Q and the HADS scores. The Turkish version of Treatment Expectation Questionnaire has good reliability and validity data in terms of evaluating the treatment expectations of patients who will receive physiotherapy.

Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression, and Body Dysmorphic Disorders Among Dermatology Outpatients With Acne Vulgaris at a Public Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, affecting a person's physical appearance. Anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) are the three primary psychological conditions seen in dermatological patients. This study aimed to assess how prevalent anxiety, depression, and BDD in acne patients and the negative effect of acne on quality of life and self-esteem in dermatology patients. This cross-sectional study was done at the dermatology clinic in East Jeddah Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Data was collected using two pre-designed questionnaires. Part 1 contained demographic information and part 2 included four sets of questionnaires including the dermatology life quality index (DLQI), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ). Post-acne hyperpigmentation index (PAHPI), globalscale for acne scar severity (SCAR-S), and LEEDS were used by the dermatologist to assess the patients' acne severity, post-acne scars, and pigmentation conditions. Data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26 (Released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). The majority of the participants were females (76%), Saudi Arabians (95%), students (58%), single (82%), and attended university (66%). The mean acne duration was 5.75 ± 4.58 years and 44% of the participants used social media for more than five hours per day. The participants scored high on the RSES (27.54 ± 3.05), indicating normal self-esteem. The HADS-A score was 11.14 ± 2.74, whereas the HADS-D score was 11.46 ± 1.78, indicating anxiety and depression symptoms. Their mean SCAR-S score is 4.38 ± 2.89. DLQI scores (6.04 ± 6.05) indicate that acne had a moderate effect on patients' quality of life. The percentage of positive BDD patients is significantly higher than those with negative BDD (p = 0.022). Furthermore, a significant association between PAHPI total score and SCAR-S (r = 0.48, p ≤ 0.001) and HADS-D (r = 0.39, p = 0.005) total scores. The study focuses on how acne vulgaris affects patients' quality of life. The findings suggest that acne-related quality of life is positively associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms. This study provides clinicians with practical advice for implementing a more thorough management strategy for acne vulgaris.

Trait emotional intelligence and its impact on quality of life, anxiety, and depression in patients with gastric cancer

Aims/Background Trait emotional intelligence is associated with anxiety and depression symptoms and quality of life in cancer patients. However, studies on the relationship of trait emotional intelligence with anxiety, depression, and quality of life in gastric cancer patients are limited. This study investigates the relationship of trait emotional intelligence with depression and quality of life in gastric cancer patients to provide a theoretical basis for clinical management. Methods A total of 270 patients with gastric cancer treated in our hospital from July 2020 to July 2023 were selected, of which 31 patients with missing questionnaire entries and missed visits were screened out, resulting in the enrolment of 239 gastric cancer patients in this study. In this survey, self-administered general information questionnaires, namely Trait Emotional Intelligence Short Form (TEIQue-SF), European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were used. Results TEIQue-SF total scores were positively correlated with QLQ-C30 scores (p &lt; ..001) and negatively correlated with HADS-A and HADS-D scores (p &lt; ..001). TEIQue-SF total score was a superior positive predictor of the QLQ-C30 score (β = 0.412, p &lt; ..001) and a superior negative predictor of the HADS score (β = –0.740, p &lt; ..001). TEIQue-SF total score (β = 0.141, p = 0.006) and HADS score (β = –0.665, p &lt; ..001) were good predictors of QLQ-C30 score. The direct effect of TEIQue-SF total score on QLQ-C30 score was 0.141, while HADS score between TEIQue-SF total score and QLQ-C30 score had a mediated effect value of 0.492. Conclusion Trait emotional intelligence not only directly affects the quality of life, but also indirectly affects the quality of life through anxiety and depression. Clinicians should pay attention to the anxiety, depression, and emotional intelligence of patients with gastric cancer to help them improve their quality of life.

Comparison of Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression – Depression subscale scores by administration mode: An individual participant data differential item functioning meta-analysis

Administration mode of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) may influence responses. We assessed if Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale – Depression subscale (HADS-D) item responses and scores were associated with administration mode. We compared (1) self-administration versus interview-administration; within self-administration (2) research or medical setting versus private; and (3) pen-and-paper versus electronic; and within interview-administration (4) in-person versus phone. We analysed individual participant data meta-analysis datasets with item-level data for the PHQ-9 (N = 34,529), EPDS (N = 16,813), and HADS-D (N = 16,768). We used multiple indicator multiple cause models to assess differential item functioning (DIF) by administration mode. We found statistically significant DIF for most items on all measures due to large samples, but influence on total scores was negligible. In 10 comparisons conducted across the PHQ-9, EPDS, and HADS-D, Pearson's correlations and intraclass correlation coefficients between latent depression symptom scores from models that did or did not account for DIF were between 0.995 and 1.000. Total PHQ-9, EPDS, and HADS-D scores did not differ materially across administration modes. Researcher and clinicians who evaluate depression symptoms with these questionnaires can select administration methods based on patient preferences, feasibility, or cost.

Development of a prediction model for suicidal ideation in patients with advanced cancer: A multicenter, real-world, pan-cancer study in China.

Patients diagnosed with advanced stage cancer face an elevated risk of suicide. We aimed to develop a suicidal ideation (SI) risk prediction model in patients with advanced cancer for early warning of their SI and facilitate suicide prevention in this population. We consecutively enrolled patients with multiple types of advanced cancers from 10 cancer institutes in China from August 2019 to December 2020. Demographic characteristics, clinicopathological data, and clinical treatment history were extracted from medical records. Symptom burden, psychological status, and SI were assessed using the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), respectively. A multivariable logistic regression model was employed to establish the model structure. In total, 2814 participants were included in the final analysis. Nine predictors including age, sex, number of household members, history of previous chemotherapy, history of previous surgery, MDASI score, HADS-A score, HADS-D score, and life satisfaction were retained in the final SI prediction model. The model achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.85 (95% confidential interval: 0.82-0.87), with AUCs ranging from 0.75 to 0.95 across 10 hospitals and higher than 0.83 for all cancer types. This study built an easy-to-use, good-performance predictive model for SI. Implementation of this model could facilitate the incorporation of psychosocial support for suicide prevention into the standard care of patients with advanced cancer.

Dog-assisted physiotherapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a randomized controlled pilot study.

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is an intervention in which the animal acts as a co-therapist. It has been mainly used in the context of patients with dementia, showing positive effects on psychological symptoms, but its potential as a physiotherapy treatment for patients with neuromuscular disorders, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in particular, has not yet been investigated. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of AAT, specifically of dog-assisted therapy, on motor functions and psychological status in patients with ALS. This study was a randomized controlled pilot study. The study was carried out at the Rehabilitation Unit NEuroMuscular Omnicenter (NEMO) of Arenzano, Genoa. Sixty hospitalized ALS patients were enrolled. All patients ran a regular two-weeks neurorehabilitation program twice a day. For three days a week, in place of the morning traditional treatment, the AAT group performed a rehabilitation session with a simultaneous interaction with the therapy-dog, while the control group performed a traditional rehabilitation session. The outcome measures were the Timed Up and Go Test, the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), the Six Minutes Walk Test, the Ten Meters walking Test and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Both groups showed an amelioration in motor scales. However, SPPB subscales as well as HADS scores showed a statistically significant improvement only in the AAT group (P values from <0.0001 to 0.0004). Additionally, across almost all motor and psychological measures, post-treatments values were significantly better for the AAT group (P values from <0.0001 to 0.01). The obtained results not only suggest that AAT is comparable to traditional physiotherapy treatments, but also evidence that this type of treatment has greater beneficial effects on motor and psychological symptoms in patients with ALS. This study provides first evidence that AAT is a powerful rehabilitation strategy in patients with ALS, improving both motor and psychological symptoms, and therefore possibly ameliorating quality of life.

Written narratives to understand the experience of individuals living with fibromyalgia.

To explore the experiences of individuals with fibromyalgia (FM) through written narratives (WN) and to preliminarily investigate the potential value of these narratives for healthcare professionals in assessing the overall perceived severity and disability experienced by individuals with FM. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 46 participants with a FM diagnosis. They were asked to complete a WN task that aimed to capture their personal experiences. The degree of severity and disability expressed in their texts was assessed by researchers, and participants were also asked to complete the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), and the Tampa Scale for Kinesophobia. Eight main themes were identified after qualitatively analysing the narratives provided by participants: story of their illness, FM characteristics, other illnesses, impact, coping strategies, social support, pain triggers and treatments. Pain emerges as a profound symptom affecting mental, physical, and social well-being, with diverse triggers and coping mechanisms. Participants highlighted difficulties in the diagnostic process, used multiple treatment strategies, and expressed a lack of understanding from healthcare professionals and society. There were significant correlations between researchers' assessments of severity and disability of the writings and FIQR and HAD scores. This study emphasises the value of narratives in capturing the multifaceted nature of FM experiences and hints at their potential for clinical understanding and management.

Sex Differences in Anxiety and Depression Conditions among Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

(1) Background: Evidence suggested inconsistent results in anxiety and depression scores among female and male cancer patients. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess how anxiety and depression conditions among cancer patients vary according to sex. (2) Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). The protocol was registered in PROSPERO with id no. CRD42024512553. The search strategy involved combining keywords using Boolean operators, including "Anxiety", "Cancer", and "Depression", across several databases: Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The outcomes were evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). (3) Results: Data were collected from five studies, enrolling a total of 6317 cancer patients, of whom 2961 were females and 3356 males. For each study, HADS-A and HADS-D scores were considered, also differentiating HADS scores according to cancer typology, and then three different meta-analyses were performed. Generally, females reported significantly higher levels of depression scores than males and, conversely, males reported significantly greater levels of anxiety than females. (4) Conclusions: Previous studies suggested higher rates of depression and anxiety conditions in females than in males, but the present data highlighted controversial findings, since males reported significantly higher levels of anxiety than females. In this scenario, the theoretical approach justified females being more open than males to expressing anxiety or depression conditions. It would be necessary for healthcare professionals to improve effective measures purposed at assessing and mitigating depressive symptoms in cases of advanced cancer, thereby improving their mental health, given the high rates of depression in advanced cancer patients, due to the difficulty level of performing their daily living activities, which deteriorate further over time.

Self-reported cognitive function mediates the relationship between employment status and cognitive functioning in persons with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundCognitive impairment (CI) is common in people with MS (PwMS). Evidence is lacking for the self-reported CI's mediation effect on employment status and objective cognitive performance. Self-reported CI was found to be unreliable and seemed to be more associated with depression rather than formal cognitive performance. We hypothesized that the link between subjective and objective assessments of cognitive functions, mood, and employment status may be more complex in PwMS than previously reported. ObjectiveThe aims of this study are the following: (Romero-Pinel et al., 2022) to determine whether employment status could affect performance in cognitive function testing and (Rao et al., 1991) whether their relationship may be mediated by self-reported CI; and (Deluca et al., 2013) to determine whether self-reported depression interacts with self-reported CI in influencing performance in various cognitive domains in PwMS. MethodologyA retrospective study was performed involving PwMS who completed the self-report Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Questionnaire (MSNQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-depression scale (HADS-D), Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Function in MS (MACFIMS) and had data regarding employment status. Included PwMS were classified as employed or unemployed. A structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was taken due to the advantage of examining multiple cognitive outcomes simultaneously while accounting for shared associations. First, a latent factor of memory and executive functioning modeled the error-free associations between both factors and a processing speed task (SDMT). Next, the model tested for the indirect effect of self-reported cognition (MSNQ) on employment status differences in each outcome (memory, speed, and executive functioning). Finally, we tested interactions between MSNQ and HADS-D on each of the outcomes. ResultsWe included 590 PwMS: 72.5% female, mean age 44.2 years (SD = 10.5), mean disease duration 8.6 years (SD 9.0). The majority (n = 455, 77.1%) had relapsing MS; 357 (60.5%) were employed. About half (n = 301, 51%) did not report CI on the MSNQ; of those, 213 (70.8%) were employed. The mean MSNQ for employed PwMS was 24.5 (SD = 10.7) and 29.8 (SD = 11.2) for unemployed PwMS. Employed PwMS had significantly better memory (β = .16, p < .05), executive functioning (β = .25, p < .05), and processing speed (β = .22, p < .05). MSNQ partially indirectly mediated the effect of employment status on memory (Δβ = .03, p < .05) and executive functioning (Δβ = .03, p < .05) and processing speed (Δβ = .04, p < .05), indicating that self-report CI partially explains the influence of employment status on these cognitive domains. The association between MSNQ with both memory and executive functioning was moderated by depression, meaning that in PwMS with high HADS-D scores, MSNQ was more strongly related to worse memory and executive functioning. The final model was an acceptable fit to the data (χ2(87) = 465.07, p < .05; CFI = .90, RMSEA = .08, 90% CI [.06, .09], SRMR = .05) explaining 41.20%, 38.50% and 33.40% of the variability in memory, executive functioning, and processing speed, respectively. ConclusionSelf-reported CI partially explains the associations between employment status and objective cognitive assessment in PwMS. Depression may moderate the relationship between self-reported cognitive assessment and objective cognitive performance. Thus, employment status and mood may guide the interpretation of self-reported CI.