Index Of Life Research Articles

Strengthening oropharyngeal muscles as an approach to treat post-stroke obstructive sleep apnea: A feasibility randomised controlled trial.

This study aimed to determine the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating oropharyngeal exercise (OPE) intervention as an alternative therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). Despite the high prevalence of OSA in this population, the standard therapy, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), is often poorly tolerated. Thirty stroke/TIA patients with OSA unable to tolerate CPAP were randomly assigned to an oropharyngeal exercise or sham exercise protocol. They performed exercises for 6 weeks, 5 days per week, 30 minutes twice per day. Feasibility was ascertained by the proportion of enrolled patients who completed more than 80% of the OPE regimen. Isometric tongue pressures, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), daytime sleepiness, and quality of life (QOL) outcomes were collected at baseline, post-training (6-week follow-up), and retention (10-week follow-up) to document preliminary efficacy. Adherence to study exercises was excellent, with 83% of participants completing more than 80% of the exercises. The isometric tongue pressures were observed to improve in the oropharyngeal exercise group (compared with the sham group), along with a decrease in OSA severity (measured by the AHI and ODI), reduced daytime sleepiness, and enhanced quality of life outcomes following the exercise programme. Only the effects on posterior isometric tongue pressure and daytime sleepiness remained significantly different between groups at the retention session. In conclusion, an RCT evaluating the efficacy of oropharyngeal exercises on post-stroke/TIA OSA is feasible and our preliminary results suggest a clinically meaningful effect.

Muscle strength, not muscle mass, determines the health-related quality of life in Indonesian women with systemic lupus erythematosus

ObjectiveNo study evaluated the impact of low muscle strength and mass on the Sarcopenia-related Quality of Life (SarQoL) in women with SLE.MethodsThis cross-sectional study recruited 145 women with SLE consecutively;...

Validation of the French version of the Caregivers’ Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities questionnaire

IntroductionThe Caregivers’ Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities (CPCHILD) is a questionnaire that measures the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Though measuring HRQL is challenging in these children, it is a valuable help for medical decision-making. There is no questionnaire to assess HRQL in French-speaking children with severe CP. ObjectiveTo translate and adapt transculturally the CPCHILD questionnaire into French (CPCHILD-FV). Material and methodsThe CPCHILD was translated from English into French by forward and backward translation by independents translators. The questionnaire was then tested on 32 caregivers of patients with CP classified as GMFCS IV or V, remarks of caregivers were analyzed by an expert committee and, if necessary, modifications were performed. Internal consistency of the CPCHILD-FV was assessed using a sample of 32 parents or caregivers and test-retest reliability was assessed on a random sample of 10 patients. ResultsThe translation and transcultural process resulted in a French version of the CPCHILD. Some items of the CPCHILD required careful discussion to ensure that items had the same meaning as in the original. Internal consistencies were over 0.70 for each domain except for health, and 0.97 for the total scores. The ICC for the test-retest reliability of the CHILD-FV total score was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.93–0.99) and ranged from 0.59 to 0.99 for the domains. ConclusionThe translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the CPCHILD questionnaire provides a French version than can measure the HRQL of children with severe CP. Level of evidenceIV; prospective study without control group.

Huntington's Disease: Understanding Its Novel Drugs and Treatments.

An inherited neurodegenerative ailment called Huntington's disease (HD) of gradual physical impairment, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms. It is brought on by a mutation of the HTT gene, which causes aberrant huntingtin protein buildup in neurons. This predominantly affects the striatum and cerebral cortex, where neuronal malfunction and eventual cell death follow. The quality index of life for both patients and their families is significantly impacted when symptoms first appear in mid-adulthood. An overview of the available therapies for HD is given in this article. Although HD has no known treatment options, there are several that try to lessen symptoms and reduce the disease's development. By lowering involuntary movements, pharmaceutical treatments like tetrabenazine and deutetrabenazine focus on motor symptoms. Antidepressants and antipsychotic medicines are also used to manage the mental and cognitive symptoms of HD. The investigation of prospective gene-based medicines is a result of research into disease-modifying medications. Reduced synthesis of mutant huntingtin protein is the goal of RNA interference (RNAi) strategies, which may halt the course of illness. Additionally, continuing research into Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) and other gene editing methods shows promise for reversing the genetic mutation that causes HD. Individuals with HD can benefit from non-pharmacological therapies such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to increase their functional abilities and general well-being. Supportive treatment, psychiatric therapy, and caregiver support groups are also essential in addressing the difficult problems the illness presents. In conclusion, tremendous progress is being made in the domain of HD treatment, with an emphasis on symptom control, disease modification, and prospective gene-based therapeutics. Even though there has been significant improvement, more study is still required to provide better therapies and ultimately discover a solution for this debilitating condition.

The Impact of CFTR Modulating Therapy on Chronic Lung Infection in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is the most common lethal genetic disease in the white population, affecting approximately 80 000 people worldwide. It is an autosomal recessive, monogenic, and multisystemic disease, with over 2000 mutations described in the CFTR protein gene. The dysfunction of this protein leads to a decrease in the secretion of chlorine and bicarbonate, sodium hyperabsorption, and consequent water absorption, resulting in the thickening of secretions and accumulation of pathogens. These changes culminate in inflammation, chronic pulmonary infection, and recurrent exacerbations, with lung disease being the main cause of morbidity and mortality. In the early stages of the disease, Staphylococcus aureus is generally the agent responsible for chronic infection. Over time, Pseudomonas aeruginosa becomes more prevalent, being the most frequent bacteria in adults. However, in up to 70% of patients, colonization is polymicrobial, with frequent isolation of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, associated with Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae, as well as isolation of other bacterial agents, viruses, or fungi. In recent years, drugs modulating CFTR have been developed which have shown a positive effect on lung function, body mass index, exacerbation rate, chlorine concentration, and quality of life. Currently, four drugs are approved that act by improving the function or increasing the amount of protein produced and consequently the ion transport. [...].

Correlation between visual field index and quality of life in glaucoma patients: a new tool to screen quality of life perception?

To evaluate the correlation between the visual field index (VFI) and vision-related quality of life (QoL) considering several confounding variables that may have a positive or negative effect. We conducted a cross-sectional, mono-centric study on glaucoma patients. Quality of life was examined with the NEI-VFQ 25 and the Glaucoma Symptom Scale (GSS). The visual field was examined with the Humphrey Field Analyzer. The variables considered were age, gender, comorbidities, years (at diagnosis and duration of the illness), treatment and related active principles, intraocular pressure, and visual acuity. The analysis was performed on both the better and the worse eye. The linear regression univariate analysis and the multivariate analyses were performed. In total, 193 patients enrolled in the study. The mean age was 70.8 ± 10.4 years. The mean follow-up period since diagnosis 11.4 ± 9.2 years. Approximately 50% of the patients suffered from primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and 45% were on monotherapy. The mean VFI was 81.3 ± 26. Regarding QoL, the NEI-VFQ total mean was 80.4 ± 17.8 and the GSS total score was 77.2 ± 21. Regarding NEI-VFQ 25, the single linear regression analysis found the following relations: age at time of visit (r = -0.30, p = 0.016), years of illness (r = -0.32, p = 0.020), the minimum and maximal visual acuity (r = 2.04 and r = 3.96, p < 0.001), the IOP min (r = 1.13, p = 0.002) and max (r = -0.52, p = 0.017), and the number of previous surgeries (r = -3.94, p < 0.001). The multivariate analysis found the following relations: gender (r = 5.13, p = 0.019), visual acuity max (r = 3.16, p < 0.001), and previous surgeries (r = -1.80, p = 0.032). Regarding GSS, the single linear regression analysis found relations with visual acuity (r = 2.37, p < 0.001), VFI (r = 0.41, p < 0.001), previous surgeries in the eye considered (r = -7.27, p < 0.001), and number of instillations (r = -3.67, p = 0.031). Data confirmed that a higher VFI has a positive impact on the score of both the NEI-VFQ 25 (r = 0.22, p = < 0.001) and the GSS questionnaire (r = 0.36, p < 0.001). The study demonstrated a correlation between the VFI and QoL of patients and their visual and non-visual ocular symptoms and function both in the worst and in the better eye, even when accounting for several clinical and demographic confounding variables. Our data support that the visual field index is an important metric instrument in the follow up of patients with glaucoma.

Body Mass Index, Physical Activity, Cardiorespiratory Endurance and Quality of Life among Children with Physical Disabilities.

Children with physical disabilities (PD) have reduced levels of physical activity (PA) compared to typically developing children, which increases their risk of becoming overweight and obese, which leads to numerous adverse health consequences. This study aimed to determine the differences between groups classified by body mass index (BMI) percentile in terms of PA levels, cardiorespiratory endurance and quality of life (QoL), and also to evaluate the relationship between BMI percentile and PA levels, cardiorespiratory endurance and QoL in children and adolescents with physical disabilities. A total of 172 children and adolescents with PD aged between 5 and 17 years from Hospital Tunku Azizah were included in this cross-sectional study. The BMI percentile was calculated to determine the weight status. PA levels were assessed with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C), cardiorespiratory endurance was measured by the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and QoL was measured by the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory version 2.0 (PedsQL 2.0). According to the BMI percentile, 70.3% had a healthy BMI percentile (50th to 84th percentile), 11.6% were overweight (50th to 84th percentile), 11% were underweight (0-49th percentile) and 7.0% were obese (95th percentile and above). Most children reported a healthy weight, and the rates of being overweight and obese were higher in children who could ambulate without aids (6.4% and 3.5%, respectively) compared to those who used walking aids (5.2% and 3.5%, respectively). Significant differences were found in the PAQ-C, 6MWT and PedsQL 2.0 scores between different BMI percentile groups (p < 0.05). There were also significant correlations between the BMI percentile and the PAQ-C (r = 0.209, p < 0.001), 6MWT (r = 0.217, p < 0.001) and PedsQL 2.0 (r = 0.189, p < 0.001). The rate of being overweight and obese is greater among children who ambulate without aids than among those with aids. An increase in the BMI percentile can reduce the QoL in different ways. This study suggests that children with PD who can walk without aids are at a greater risk of being overweight and obese. Hence, the engagement of this population in PA is crucial for their weight management.

The Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation and Neuromuscular Taping on Ankle Brachial Index Values and Quality of Life in People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by abnormal blood sugar levels due to pancreatic disorders. Quality of life and ankle brachial index values are an area of concern for nurses related to non-pharmacological treatments to prevent complications. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) can improve relaxation and cellular immunity, as well as Neuromuscular Taping (NMT) is a non-pharmacological intervention to prevent lower extremity peripheral blood circulation decline, so both have a potential positive impact on the patient's quality of life. The aim of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of PMR and NMT on ankle brachial index (ABI) and quality of life in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Methods: The study was a quasy-experiment with a pre post test control group design. Consecutive sampling was implemented and resulted a sample of 32 T2DM patients with certain criteria, such as patients who were treated in the internal medicine ward, age 40-70 years, suffering from T2DM for more than5 years, not suffering from diabetic ulcers, and still can do some exercise. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test with correlation test with alpha 0.05. Results: There was a significant effect of the PMR-NMT combination intervention on ABI (p= 0.034) and quality of life (p= 0.007) in the intervention group. Conversely, the control group showed no difference in ABI (p= 0.142) and quality of life (p= 0.739) before and after the study. Conclusion: PMR and NMT can improve ABI values and Quality of Life in patients with T2DM. This PMR-NMT combination can be an alternative non-pharmacological therapy in patients T2DM to help improve ankle brachial index and quality of life.

The McKenzie Method versus guideline-based advice in the treatment of sciatica: 24-month outcomes of a randomised clinical trial

Objective To compare the effectiveness of a McKenzie Method intervention in patients with sciatica with guideline-based patient education. Design Multi-centre, assessor-blinded, parallel-group, randomised trial Setting Two tertiary hospitals providing operative spinal care. Subjects Sciatica patients with magnetic resonance imaging-confirmed lumbar disc herniation compressing a nerve root. Interventions The McKenzie group received specific back exercises for seven visits combined with an educational book, and the Control group received a single session of self-management guidance according to usual practices. Main measures The primary outcome was the number of surgical operations. Secondary outcomes were pain measured using the Visual Analogue Scale, disability using the Oswestry Disability Index and health-related quality of life using a RAND-36 questionnaire at baseline and 24-month follow-up. Results Altogether 66 patients, mean age of 43 years, of which 50% were females with long-lasting sciatica, mean 16 weeks, were randomised to two groups. Nineteen patients (29%) had surgery. There was no significant difference in surgery rates between the groups. Back and leg pain decreased, and disability improved in both groups. Health-related quality of life improved in six dimensions out of eight in both groups. There were no significant between-group changes in the patient-reported outcomes at the follow-up. Conclusions Multiple sessions of McKenzie-based back exercises with a McKenzie-specific patient's educational book produced effects equal to guideline-based advice at long-term follow-up. However, the power of these results is diminished due to the small patient population and confounding factors.

Optimized drug-coated balloon angioplasty of the superficial femoral and proximal popliteal arteries using the Tack Endovascular System: Tack Optimized Balloon Angioplasty (TOBA) III 24-month results in standard and long lesions.

The Tack Endovascular System is a minimal-metal dissection repair device that is purpose-built to treat post-percutaneous angioplasty (PTA) arterial dissections in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The Tack Optimized Balloon Angioplasty (TOBA) III trial evaluated the safety and effectiveness of the Tack Endovascular System in patients with superficial femoral artery (SFA) and/or proximal popliteal artery (PPA) dissection after PTA with a drug-coated balloon (DCB). The objective of this study is to report the results in the standard- (SL) and long-lesion (LL) cohorts through 24 months. The TOBA III study was a prospective, multicenter, single-arm study including patients suffering from Rutherford category 2-4 PAD. Outcomes were assessed according to pre-specified lesion length in SL ( ≥ 20 mm and ≤150 mm) and LL ( > 150 mm and ≤250 mm) cohorts. Follow-up was through 24 months. TOBA III enrolled 201 patients, 169 patients in the SL cohort and 32 in the LL cohort. At 24 months, the Kaplan-Meier estimates of freedom from major adverse events were 91.7% and 82.6% for the SL cohort and LL cohort, respectively. Kaplan-Meier estimates of freedom from clinically driven-target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR) were 92.3% in the SL cohort and 82.6% in the LL cohort. At 24 months, 78.8% of SL patients and 69.2% of LL patients experienced an improvement of >2 Rutherford categories (both cohorts p < 0.001). The baseline ankle-brachial index improved from 0.68 ± 0.18 to 0.93 ± 0.16 in the SL (p < 0.001) and from 0.62 ± 0.23 to 0.87 ± 0.15 in the LL cohort (p < 0.001) at 24 months. The 24-month results of the TOBA III trial support the safety and effectiveness of the Tack Endovascular System in patients who required post-PTA dissection repair in the SFA and PPA following DCB angioplasty for claudication and rest pain. In both the SL and LL cohorts, Tack placement was associated with sustained freedom from CD-TLR through 24 months as well as sustained improvements in Rutherford categories, ankle-brachial index, and quality of life.

Efficacy and safety of anti-androgens in the management of polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Anti-androgens and combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs) may mitigate hyperandrogenism-related symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, their efficacy and safety in PCOS remain unclear as previous reviews have focused on non-PCOS populations. To inform the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline in PCOS, we conducted the first systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the efficacy and safety of anti-androgens in the management of hormonal and clinical features of PCOS. We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo, All EBM reviews, and CINAHL up to 28th June 2023 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) examining oral anti-androgen use, alone or in combination with metformin, COCPs, lifestyle, or other interventions, in women of any age, with PCOS diagnosed by Rotterdam, National Institutes of Health or Androgen Excess & PCOS Society criteria, and using a form of contraception. Non-English studies and studies of less than 6 months duration or which used the same anti-androgen regimen in both/all groups were excluded in order to establish efficacy for the clinical outcomes of interest. Three authors screened articles against selection criteria and assessed risk of bias and quality using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) framework. Critical outcomes (prioritised during guideline development for GRADE purposes) included weight, body mass index (BMI), irregular cycles, hirsutism, liver function, and quality of life. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted where appropriate. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022345640. From 1660 studies identified in the search, 27 articles comprising 20 unique studies were included. Of these, 13 studies (n=961) were pooled in meta-analysis. Seven studies had a high risk of bias, nine moderate and four low. Anti-androgens included finasteride, flutamide, spironolactone, or bicalutamide. In meta-analysis, anti-androgens+lifestyle were superior to metformin+lifestyle for hirsutism (weighted mean difference [WMD] [95% CI]:-1.59 [-3.06,-0.12], p=0.03; I2=74%), SHBG (7.70nmol/l [0.75, 14.66], p=0.03; I2=0%), fasting insulin and fasting insulin: glucose ratio (-2.11 μU/ml [-3.97,-0.26], p=0.03; I2=0% and-1.12 [-1.44,-0.79], p<0.0001, I2=0%, respectively), but were not superior to placebo+lifestyle for hirsutism (-0.93, [-3.37, 1.51], p=0.45; I2=76%) or SHBG (9.72nmol/l [-0.71, 20.14], p=0.07; I2=31%). Daily use was more effective for hirsutism than use every three days (-3.48 [-4.58,-2.39], p<0.0001, I2=1%), and resulted in lower androstenedione levels (-0.30ng/ml [-0.50,-0.10], p=0.004; I2=0%). Combination treatment with anti-androgens+metformin+lifestyle resulted in lower testosterone compared with metformin+lifestyle (-0.29nmol/l [-0.52,-0.06], p=0.01; I2=61%), but there were no differences in hirsutism when anti-androgens+metformin+lifestyle were compared with either anti-androgens+lifestyle or metformin+lifestyle. In limited meta-analyses (n=2 trials), combining anti-androgens with COCP resulted in poorer lipid profiles compared with COCP±placebo, with no differences in other outcomes. Current evidence does not support the use of anti-androgens preferentially to COCPs to treat hyperandrogenism in PCOS. Anti-androgens could be considered to treat hirsutism in PCOS, where COCPs are contraindicated, poorly tolerated, or present a sub-optimal response after a minimum 6-month period, with consideration of clinical context and individual risk factors and characteristics. National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia Monash University.

Quality of life of critical care nurses and impact on anxiety, depression, stress, burnout and sleep quality: A cross-sectional study

ObjectivesTo investigate how anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and sleep quality impact on Quality of life of critical care nurses. BackgroundSeveral studies reported that critical care nurses are exposed to a high risk of anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, and sleep quality, but we do not know the impact of critical care nurses. DesignA cross-sectional study. MethodsWe have included all critical care nurses working in the intensive care unit for at least six months. Data were collected from December 1, 2021, to March 18, 2022. We evaluated the critical care nurses using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), Maslach Burnout Inventory scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Nurse Quality of Life. The primary endpoint is Quality of Life. Associations were tested using multivariate modelling. ResultsA total of 140 critical care nurses were included. Multivariate regression showed the relation between emotional QoL and emotional exhaustion and DASS total score [OR = 0.14; 95% CI (0.03–0.73); p = 0.019 and OR = 3.64; 95% CI (1.07–12.32); p = 0.038, respectively]. Personal accomplishment and DASS total score have a direct relationship on quality of work-life [OR = 0.21; 95% CI (0.05–0.82); p = 0.024 and OR = 4.18; 95% CI (1.01–17.33); p = 0.049, respectively]. ConclusionsThe physical quality of life is not optimal in critical care nurses, while burnout and the DASS score directly impact the emotional and work-life quality of life. Implications for clinical practiceOur research has highlighted the importance of detecting the quality of life of critical care nurses. The nurses should take proper care of their health by adopting the right health behaviours to create correct work conditions and increase the quality of care for critically ill patients.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection in cardiac rehab: an exploration of lived experiences of patients and the knowledge, understanding, and perceptions of healthcare professionals

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a non-atherosclerotic type of cardiovascular disease (CVD) that affects young and middle-aged women more than men. Many aspects of SCAD, however, remain unclear, including the outcomes of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and the lived experiences of people with this condition in the programme. Furthermore, the awareness and knowledge of healthcare professionals (HCPs) regarding SCAD may be an important factor in determining patient engagement with rehabilitation services. A longitudinal study examining changes in physical and mental health outcomes of patients with SCAD is yet to be performed. Similarly, an in-depth exploration of HCPs' perspectives on SCAD is also needed. Objectives The objectives of this project are to understand the lived experiences of patients with SCAD, examine the knowledge of HCPs about the management of SCAD, and analyse the outcomes of CR on physical activity, diet, body mass index, waist circumference, stress, anxiety, depression and health-related quality of life upon completion of phase III and phase IV CR, and a year post-event. Methods A mixed-methods longitudinal observational study will be performed with four time points (pre-phase III CR, post-phase III CR, post-phase IV CR, and a year follow-up after SCAD event). Lived experiences of both male and female patients with SCAD, their pathways of care and barriers to engagement to CR will be explored through semi-structured interviews. Physical activity (short-form IPAQ questionnaire), dietary intake, anthropometric measures (waist circumference and body mass index), stress (PSS-10 questionnaire), anxiety (GAD-7 questionnaire), depression (PHQ-9 questionnaire) and health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L questionnaire) will be assessed at each timepoint. Patients with SCAD who are not engaged with CR will be used as a control group. Outcome measures will be compared between two groups using a mixed model ANOVA (time x intervention). A qualitative cross-sectional study using semi-structured interviews with HCPs will explore their understanding and management of SCAD. Discussion: The findings of this project will indicate weather current CR needs are met in this patient group and what changes need to be made to existing CR services to improve uptake in patients with SCAD. This could lead to a larger clinical trial that examines the effectiveness of tailored CR for this group of patients. Additionally, the information received from HCPs will indicate if there is an unmet educational need regarding SCAD, which may ultimately lead to better recognition, medical and lifestyle management for this patient group.

Topical Formulation Based on Arnebia euchroma as a Novel Possible Efficient Treatment on Epidermolysis Bullosa Lesions: A Case Series of Fourteen Patients

BACKGROUND: Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a skin fragility disorder that results in the disruption of the dermo-epidermal junction and painful blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. Currently, there is almost no definite treatment for EB patients. AIM: This study aims to assess the effect of topical formulation based on Arnebia euchroma (AE) on lesions induced by EB. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients with EB diseases treated with Hochobeh ointment (AE+Beewax+Olive oil) in 2022 at our dermatological clinic were included in the study. EB diseases were diagnosed based on the following criteria: (1) clinical features (2) histopathological findings (3) Linear depositions of IgG, IgA, IgM 4. salt-split skin (SSS) or other immune serological tests compatible with the diagnosis of EB disease. Hochobeh ointment and lotion treatment were initiated. Clinical evaluations were repeated 3 and 7 days after the treatment began, and photographs were taken to document the changes in clinical severity. EB Disease Activity and Scarring Index (EBDASI) and EB Quality of Life (EB-QoL) questionnaires were used to assess the severity of EB and the quality of life, respectively. All statistical analyses were performed using statistical package for the social sciences version 16. RESULTS: Overall, fourteen patients were included. Improvement in clinical features, including reduction of infection and inflammation and improvement of wound healing, was observed. EBDASI and EB-QoL scores decreased significantly after treatment (91.5 ± 45.7 vs. 68.9 ± 43, p = 0.001; 24.6 ± 6.7 vs. 18 ± 5.2, p = 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Hochobeh ointment may be effective in treating EB skin and mucosal lesions.

Associations between overweight, obesity, and mental health: a retrospective study among European adults aged 50.

The comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity have been well researched and scientifically proven while their relationship to mental health is still not verified. This study is aimed at investigating reciprocal associations between obesity and mental health, and is intended to further analyze possible long-term effects using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). In order to do that, waves 4 and 8, conducted in 2010 and 2019/20 of this survey, were analyzed in a cross-lagged panel approach including 16,184 adult Europeans (50+) using multiple linear regression analysis focusing on the Body Mass Index (BMI), depression status and quality of life (QoL). Findings yield significant cross-lagged effects in one direction regarding BMI predicting QoL and depression state, whereas depression state and QoL do not significantly predict BMI. Findings include people living with obesity, overweight, and underweight showing significantly decreased levels of QoL as well as increased depression scores compared to people of normal weight over a lag time of 10 years, where people living with obesity indicate the strongest effect. However, results do not confirm reciprocal associations in the long term. Hence, there is a strong need to carry out further research on this issue.

Effects of resistance training on sarcopenia in patients with intestinal failure: A randomized controlled trial

The potential effects of resistance training on sarcopenia in patients with intestinal failure (IF) are not fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of a resistance training program on appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI), physical performance, body composition, biochemical parameters, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with IF exhibiting sarcopenia. A single-center randomized controlled trial was conducted in a Chinese tertiary teaching hospital. Patients with IF exhibiting sarcopenia were randomly assigned to the exercise group or control group. Participants in the exercise group incorporated four sets of resistance training involving the limbs and abdominal and lower back muscles, six times weekly for 4 weeks. The control group received no specific intervention. The primary outcome was the between-group difference in ASMI 4 weeks after intervention. Secondary outcomes included handgrip strength, 6-m gait speed, body composition, biochemical parameters, and HRQOL. A total of 60 participants (control group 30, age 51.2±12.9 years, women 43.3%; exercise group 30, age 53.9±14.5 years, women 56.7%) completed the 4-week intervention trial. For the primary outcome, significant intervention effects were found in ASMI between the exercise group and the control group (mean difference 0.72, 95% CI, 0.56-0.89, P<0.001). There were notable differences in handgrip strength (mean difference 2.7, 95% CI, 1.7-3.6, P<0.001), 6-m gait speed (mean difference 0.08, 95% CI, 0.01-0.35, P=0.034), body composition (including total cell mass, bone mineral content, skeletal muscle mass, lean mass, visceral fat area, total body water, intracellular water, extracellular water, and segmental water-legs), and biochemical parameters (including IGF-1, prealbumin, and hemoglobin) between the two groups (P<0.05). No significant intervention benefits were observed for other secondary outcomes, including biochemical parameters (including albumin, total bilirubin, etc.) and HRQOL (P>0.05). In this randomized clinical trial, we observed that 4 weeks of resistance training was associated with improved ASMI, physical performance, biochemical parameters (including IGF-1, prealbumin, and hemoglobin), and body composition in IF patients with sarcopenia. Resistance training can be recommended as a simple and effective method to improve sarcopenia in patients with IF. www.chictr.org.cn, identifier: ChiCTR2100051727.

Feasibility of exercise therapy for children with asthma: a meta-analysis.

Background: Although numerous studies have demonstrated the clear benefits of exercise for people with asthma, controversy remains. This study evaluated the effects of sustained exercise types on lung function and quality of life in patients with asthma. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang database since January 2000 to August 2022 .included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of asthmatic children intervened with exercise. The outcomes were lung function and asthma-related quality of life. Fixed-effects model (I2≤50%) or random-effects model (I2>50%) was applied to calculate the pooled effects. Funnel plots were quantified to present publication bias, and a P value <0.05 was statistically significant. Results: Eventually, 15 trials conformed to the selection criteria. The exercise group significantly improved lung function (FEV1 and FVC) in asthmatic children compared with the control group. Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (MD = 2.12, 95%CI = 0.70, 3.53; p = 0.003; I2 = 15%); Forced Vital Capacity (MD = 2.78, 95%CI = 1.26, 4.31; p = 0.0004; I2 = 56%). The immune system markers IL-6 and TNF-α, were significantly reduced in the exercise group. Interleukin-6 (MD = -0.49, 95%CI = -0.81, -0.17; p = 0.003; I2=0%); tumor necrosis factor-α (MD = -0.54, 95%CI = -0.92, -0.15; p = 0.006; I2 = 0%). That quality of life (PAQLQ) was significantly improved in children with asthma in the exercise group. PAQLQ-Total score (MD = 1.06, 95%CI = 0.46, 1.66; p = 0.006; I2 = 94%); PAQLQ-Emotional (MD = 0.91, 95%CI = 0.76, 1.06; p<0.00001; I2 = 90%); PAQLQ-symptoms (MD = 0.87, 95%CI = 0.71, 1.02; p<0.00001; I2 = 95%); PAQLQ-activities (MD = 1.20, 95%CI = 0.58, 1.82; p = 0.00001; I2 = 93%). Meta-analysis showed significant improvements in body composition in the exercise group. BMI (MD = -2.42, 95%CI = -4.40, 0.44; p = 0.02; I2 = 85%). Conclusions: This meta-analysis demonstrated the effectiveness of exercise in improving pulmonary function index (FEV1, FVC), immune system (IL-6, TNF-α, Feno), exercise ability (6MWT), body composition (BMI), and quality of life (PAQLQ) in asthmatic children. Asthmatic children should regularly participate in physical exercise.

Effect of Laughter Yoga on Sleep and Quality of Life in Individuals With Fecal Ostomies: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of laughter yoga on the quality of life and sleep quality in individuals with fecal ostomies. This was randomized controlled trial. The sample comprised 55 individuals with an ostomy who received care at Ankara University's I˙bni Sina Hospital Stoma Therapy Unit in Ankara, Turkey. Data were collected over a 2-month period (January and February 2020). Participants were allocated into an intervention group (n = 27) who received a yoga therapy intervention and a control group (n = 28) who received no intervention via simple randomization. Demographic and pertinent clinical variables were obtained during a baseline visit in both groups, along with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Stoma-Quality of Life (Stoma-QOL) instruments. The intervention group received laughter yoga weekly over a period of 8 weeks. Mean scores on the PSQI and the Stoma-QOL at baseline were compared. Participants in the intervention had a significant decline in mean PSQI scores (6.85 vs 5.48, P = .044) indicating improvement in sleep quality following the intervention. Analysis revealed no significant difference in mean Stoma-QOL scores (P = .077). Control group participants had no significant difference in either mean PSQI or Stoma-QOL scores following data collection at the end of 8 weeks. Laughter yoga had a positive effect on the sleep quality in individuals with fecal ostomies. Further research is recommended to evaluate the effect of the number of laughter yoga sessions on the sleep quality and quality of life in individuals with ostomies.

Five-year outcomes for patients with a displaced fracture of the distal tibia.

To report the outcomes of patients with a fracture of the distal tibia who were treated with intramedullary nail versus locking plate in the five years after participating in the Fixation of Distal Tibia fracture (FixDT) trial. The FixDT trial reported the results for 321 patients randomized to nail or locking plate fixation in the first 12 months after their injury. In this follow-up study, we report the results of 170 of the original participants who agreed to be followed up until five years. Participants reported their Disability Rating Index (DRI) and health-related quality of life (EuroQol five-dimension three-level questionnaire) annually by self-reported questionnaire. Further surgical interventions related to the fracture were also recorded. There was no evidence of a difference in patient-reported disability, health-related quality of life, or the need for further surgery between participants treated with either type of fixation at five years. Considering the combined results for all participants, there was no significant change in DRI scores after the first 12 months of follow-up (difference between 12 and 24 months, 3.3 (95% confidence interval -1.8 to 8.5); p = 0.203), with patients reporting around 20% disability at five years. This study shows that the moderate levels of disability and reduced quality of life reported by participants 12 months after a fracture of the distal tibia persist in the medium term, with little evidence of improvement after the first year.

Comparison of predictive effect of the dietary inflammatory index and empirically derived food-based dietary inflammatory index on the menopause-specific quality of life and its complications

IntroductionMenopause, defined as the cessation of menstruation for at least 12 months, is one of the important stages of a woman's life cycle. Some hormonal variations occur during the transition to menopause, which affects women’s quality of life. Recently, the role of dietary factors in alleviating symptoms has been investigated.Aim of this studyWe tried to investigate the relationship between dietary inflammatory index (DII), food-based dietary inflammatory index (FDII) and quality of life, and menopausal symptoms, comparing their predictive power and suggesting the best cut-off point.MethodologyOne hundred forty-nine postmenopausal women were included in the cross-sectional study. After collecting data by interview, the desired variables were calculated. Logistic regression and ROC curves were used to investigate the relationship and predictive power of DII and FDII with menopausal symptoms.FindingsWe observed that both DII and FDII were significantly associated with the severity of sexual symptoms. The first tertile of DII (OR = 0.252, P-value = 0.002) and FDII (OR = 0.316, P-value = 0.014) had a significantly lower odds ratio for severe to moderate symptoms compared to the third tertile. Both inflammatory indices had significant predictive power in predicting the probability of having severe to moderate poor quality of life (FDII (p-value = 0.004) > DII (p-value = 0.006)) and sexual symptoms (DII (p-value = 0.002) > FDII (p-value = 0.003)). Also, regarding the physical subtype, only FDII (p-value = 0.002) results were significant.ConclusionBoth dietary inflammatory indices appear to be suitable for predicting quality of life, but FDII had slightly more predictive power. It seems that the quality of life and severity of menopausal symptoms may be improved, particularly with regard to sexual symptoms, by following an anti-inflammatory diet.