Overall Quality Of Life Research Articles

Post COVID-19 infection and quality of life of healthcare workers at Sahloul University Hospital of Sousse in Tunisia.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, health care workers (HCWs) faced an enormous physical and mental burden, sometimes altering their quality of life due mainly to persistent challenges stemming from their frontline position. Todetermine the prevalence of post-COVID-19 syndrome, and its impact on the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) among HCWs. This is an exhaustive cross-sectional study with analytical scope, conducted among all HCWs of the University Hospital Sahloul of Sousse, Tunisia, who have contracted COVID-19 between September 2020 and 30 March 2021 (N=529 cases).The post-covid medical check-up was carried out three months after the acute phase of the COVID-19 infection (December 2020 to June 2021). HRQoL was assessed using the SF-12 (12-item Short Form Health Survey) questionnaire. Bivariate study and multiple linear regressions were performed to identify the different factors influencing the quality of life of HCWs. During the study period, 529 HCWs were diagnosed with SARS CoV-2 infection, out of them 249 participants were included (47% participation rate). Post covid-19 syndrome was reported in 65% of cases. A low overall quality of life (QoL) score was reported in 28.6% of cases. Low physical and mental composite scores were reported in 34.3% and 29.4% of cases respectively. In the multiple linear regression analysis, gender, post COVID-19 syndrome and time off work were significantly associated with SF12 scores. In our study, HCWs experienced a significant deterioration in HRQoL after COVID-19 with a high incidence of post-COVID-19 syndrome. The need of long-term follow-up after SARS-CoV-2 infection remains essential to support HCWs and mitigate long-term impacts.

Lived experiences of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) management: a qualitative phenomenological study in Southwest China

ObjectivesTo explore the lived experiences of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer enrolled in a patient-reported outcomes (PROs) management programme and to preliminarily understand how PROs management influences various aspects of...

P-53 PITUITARY STALK INTERRUPTION SYNDROME: A CASE REPORT

Abstract Introduction Pituitary stalk interruption syndrome (PSIS) is a congenital abnormality of the pituitary gland responsible for GH deficiency or global pituitary insufficiency and is usually characterized by the triad of a very thin or interrupted pituitary stalk, an ectopic (or absent) posterior pituitary (EPP), and hypoplasia or aplasia of the anterior pituitary visible on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The etiology of this syndrome is not fully understood, and many theories, like perinatal injuries or defective organogenesis due to genetic or environmental factors during pregnancy, are proposed. In family cases of PSIS, rare mutations of HESX1, LH4, OTX3, SOX3 and PROKR2 may be the cause. In the majority of cases, no genetic cause is found. The symptoms and signs of this syndrome typically become apparent in the neonatal period and childhood. Sometimes symptoms can be overlooked, and diagnosis can be delayed. Clinical Case A 22-year-old male presented in our clinic with hypothyroidism and growth hormone deficiency. He had previously received growth hormone (GH) treatment for 6 years until he was 15 years old. He was receiving levothyroxine therapy for hypothyroidism. Complete blood count, serum electrolytes, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, urinalysis, and thyroid function tests were normal. Hormonal analysis showed FSH: 11.9 U/L (N = 1.4-18.1 U/L), LH: 4.1 U/L (N = 1.5-9.3 U/L), prolactin: 9.1 μg/L (N = 5.4-15.4 μg/L), ACTH: 24.5 pg/mL (N = <46), fasting morning cortisol: 17.2 μg/dL (N = 5.2-22.4 μg/dL), total testosterone: 4.03 μg/L (N = 1.64-7.53 μg/L), free testosterone: 6.39 pg/mL (N = 5.4-40 pg/mL), IGF-1: 114 μg/dL (N = 161-384 μg/dL). Brain MRI revealed slightly hypoplastic sella turcica and adenohypophysis measuring 4.2 mm in height, thin infundibulum, and ectopic posterior pituitary located posterior to the infundibulum in the suprasellar cistern. The diagnosis of pituitary stalk interruption syndrome is mainly based on its clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, and imaging examinations. Conclusion PSIS is a rare congenital malformation that presents with significant growth and developmental challenges in children. The symptoms can be disregarded, and the diagnosis will therefore be delayed. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving growth outcomes and overall quality of life. It must be considered in the presence of combined or isolated hypopituitarism. MRI is the imaging modality of choice for the diagnosis of this condition. Regular monitoring and supportive care are essential components of effective management for these patients.

The Patients’ Long-Term Insight into Day-to-Day Functioning After Establishing the Functional Seizures Diagnosis

Background/Objectives: Functional seizures (FSs) are paroxysmal, time-limited events with motor, sensory, autonomic, or cognitive manifestations related to pathophysiological processes other than abnormal electric discharges in the brain. However, these seizures are often followed by different psychiatric comorbidities. Their impact on the overall quality of life and the cofounding factors, especially the ones that can be treated, were the main investigation aims of this study. Methods: This study comprised 76 patients who were diagnosed with FSs. This study included patients who were diagnosed with FSs via video-EEG telemetry. We used the “Likert scale” from the QOLIE 31 questionnaire to evaluate patients’ subjective perception of their quality of life. We researched the association of various clinical factors with the subjective QoL score. Results: A statistically significant marginal association was shown for seven variables, four of them with a positive association (subjective perception of disease severity, belief in treatments’ positive effects, functional seizure cessation, and not being afraid of next seizure) and three of them with a negative association (age at FS onset, depression symptoms, and current age of life). After Bonferroni correction for multiple testing only symptoms of depression stayed statistically significantly associated with outcome. Multivariable logistic regression following variable selection identified that six variables (age at FS onset, absence of psychiatric testing, perceiving oneself as mentally changed due to the disease, seizure severity, depressive symptoms, and fear of therapy side effects) were statistically significantly negatively associated with the outcome. Conclusions: It seems that patients who have FSs coexisting with depressive symptoms and also those with worse disease perception have less chances to be satisfied with their overall quality of life.

Trailblazer Tepezza for thyroid

Dear Editor, Teprotumumab is a human monoclonal antibody that blocks the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF- 1R). Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on January 21st, 2020, under the brand name Tepezza, to be used as the treatment for Graves eye disease in adults based on its landmark success in the randomised double-blind clinical trials named OPTIC study. [1] A meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice in 2023 stated that at week 24 of treatment, Teprotumumab had been shown to significantly improve proptosis in 71.86% participants, diplopia in 73.65% of participants and decrease tissue inflammation, as measured by the clinical activity score to zero or one, thus improving the overall quality of life. [2] Even though the drug has adverse effects namely alopecia, fatigue and headache, the risk of these occurring was the same as the placebo group. Other potential side effects included nausea, dry skin and muscle spasms which were deemed mild.[3] One manageable side effect reported was hypoglycaemia, especially in individuals already diagnosed with diabetes, which could be corrected by adjusting their anti-diabetic medication. Importantly, this drug should be avoided in pregnancy due to its prospective teratogenic effects [2]. The promising statistics outweigh the risks associated with the drug and make teprotumumab a game-changer for thyroid eye disease patients. Pakistan has a 2% prevalence of hyperthyroidism, with a major (90%) contribution from Graves’ disease. [4] Although this 2% seems insignificant, yet it amounts up to 4.2 million people. Unfortunately, this drug has not reached Pakistan yet and we still resort to using conventional treatments namely lubricants and steroids despite their worrying side effects and contraindications in patients having other comorbid conditions which majority of the people of Pakistan suffer from such as diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis and hepatic dysfunction. [5] The government should subsidize the use of this novel drug in TED patients by incentivizing its availability and training physicians to monitor the patients taking the infusions. The patients will need to be educated about the adverse profile and danger signs when to report their symptoms to the doctor. Teprotumumab is not just a treatment, it is a cure for most patients. Should we not switch from using the current harmful conventional drugs to the more contemporary ones with better outcomes?

The correlations between demographic factors, self-efficacy, and quality of life among Indonesian patients with ischemic stroke: A cross-sectional study.

Ischemic stroke is the primary cause of neurological disability and can lead to psychological issues that affect self-efficacy. Changes in self-efficacy, in turn, influence the overall quality of life. Although many studies have examined factors that affect self-efficacy, quality of life, or both, few have specifically explored the role of demographic factors in shaping the quality of life in patients with ischemic stroke. This study aimed to identify the correlations between demographic factors, self-efficacy, and quality of life Indonesian in patients with ischemic stroke. This study employed a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. A total of 143 participants were recruited between February and April 2024 based on defined inclusion criteria. The research instruments included a demographic questionnaire, the Stroke Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, and the Specific Stroke Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and Spearman rank test. The findings revealed that females were 2.213 times more likely (95% CI = 1.128-4.341; p = 0.031) to achieve high self-efficacy compared to males. Occupational status significantly influenced self-efficacy, with employed individuals being 6.333 times more likely (95% CI = 3.134-16.599; p <0.001) to achieve high self-efficacy. The duration of stroke experienced by respondents also had a significant impact, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.908 (95% CI = 0.980-3.715; p = 0.025). Additionally, occupational status significantly affected the quality of life, as employed respondents were 7.213 times more likely to achieve a good quality of life (OR = 7.213; 95% CI = 3.134-16.599; p <0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between self-efficacy and quality of life (r = 0.898, p <0.001). The results of this study provide valuable insights for nursing practice, emphasizing the importance of interventions to enhance patients' self-efficacy. By increasing patients' confidence in managing their condition, such interventions can lead to improved quality of life and better recovery outcomes. Strategies including health education, psychological support, and patient empowerment during rehabilitation are essential for strengthening self-efficacy and improving overall care outcomes. These findings highlight the need for healthcare professionals and families to address the psychological aspects of care in patients with stroke. Enhancing self-efficacy is critical in helping patients achieve a better quality of life and more successful recovery.

Fatigue in Hemodialysis Patients: A Comparative Analysis with Healthy Controls

This study investigates fatigue and quality of life in hemodialysis patients, examining the influence of demographic and clinical factors on these outcomes. A cohort of 115 hemodialysis patients and 112 healthy controls completed the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS), the shorter MFIS-5, and the WHOQOL-BREF quality of life assessment. The findings indicate that hemodialysis patients experience significantly higher levels of fatigue, which correspond with lower quality of life, particularly in the physical and psychological domains, compared to healthy controls. Male patients reported significantly higher levels of fatigue and lower quality of life scores, whereas younger patients demonstrated relatively better outcomes. Extended dialysis sessions exceeding four hours were associated with poorer social well-being, and educational attainment was positively linked with physical and environmental quality of life domains. However, marital status did not show a significant effect. The study validates the consistency between MFIS and MFIS-5 scores, recommending MFIS-5 for time-sensitive clinical use without compromising accuracy. These results underscore the need for individualized, multi-dimensional approaches to fatigue management in hemodialysis patients, emphasizing interventions that address physical, psychological, and social well-being to enhance overall quality of life. The findings highlight specific factors that may guide tailored support strategies to improve patient outcomes in this population.

Abstract A001: A prospective study of anemia in cancer patients undergoing chemoradiation using serial hemoglobin measurement in North Central region, Nigeria

Abstract Background: Multiple Studies have suggested that aside from its important role in quality of life (QOL) issues, anemia constitutes an independent prognostic factor of survival, response to treatment, loco-regional control and recurrence in patients with cancer concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy (i.e. Chemoradiation). This treatment modality is for selected cancer types and patients but may be complicated, especially in low and middle income countries where nutritional anemia is already prevalent. Aim: A prospective study of anemia in cancer patients undergoing chemoradiation using serial hemoglobin measurement. Materials and Method: The study consists of 38 patients with solid cancers who meet inclusion criteria. The baseline hemoglobin (Hb) level was taken and recorded on first day of consultation. Their Hb level was measured every 2 weeks during concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The blood film pictures at pre-treatment and ongoing treatment were examined and analyzed by a team of Ha Hematologists. The whole process was terminated after 3 consecutive Hb measurement or after week 6. Anemia was classified for this study as follows: Less than10g/dl– Severe Anemia 10–10.9g/dl–Moderate Anemia 11–11.9g/dl–Mild Anemia 12–12.9g/dl–No Anemia. Results: 38 out of 72 cancer patients recruited for this study met inclusion criteria. Age range was 25–75 years with median age of 50years. 27/38 (71/1%) of patients were female while 11/38 (28.9%) were male with ratio of 2:1. 61.2% had Pelvic and 38.8% had head and neck regions as cancer sites that received chemoradiation. More than 75% of patients presented with stage III diseases which was evident of advanced stage and a strong indication for chemoradiation. At week 6, 39.6% cancer patients undergoing chemoradiation had mean haemoglobin value of 10-10.9g/dl. At p value &amp;gt;0.05 there was no statistical significance in distribution of mean Hb, standard deviation based on sex for cancer patients on chemoradiation. Conclusion: The prevalence of anaemia in 38 cancer patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiation was 73.6%. With adequate Hb monitoring during therapy, chemoradiation has no significant effect on Hb level. At 95% confidence interval, the impact of chemoradiation on Hb level during therapy i.e. week 6 was 10.98-11.3g/dl. Despite this result, anemia remains a big challenge to overall quality of life and survival in cancer patients especially in resource constrained environment like Nigeria where nutritional anemia is common and blood transfusion services may be in adequate in certain areas with attendant out of pocket health care cost of blood transfusion. Recommendation: This paves way for more questions and need for further research on our patient population on the relationship between anemia, hypoxia, use of hyperbaric oxygen, radiosensitizers, antihelminthics etc. as anemia remains independent prognostic factor in patients with cancer in our environment. Citation Format: Simeom Chinedu Aruah. A prospective study of anemia in cancer patients undergoing chemoradiation using serial hemoglobin measurement in North Central region, Nigeria. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Translating Targeted Therapies in Combination with Radiotherapy; 2025 Jan 26-29; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2025;31(2_Suppl):Abstract nr A001.

Assessing the efficacy of psychological interventions in enhancing the quality of life of patients diagnosed with cancer and psychiatric disorders: An umbrella analysis.

Psychosocial interventions encompass psychotherapy and psychological education that explicitly target psychosocial adaptation. These interventions have been shown to have a substantial positive effect on reducing anxiety and depression, as well as improving overall quality of life (QoL). Nevertheless, there is still no consensus concerning the therapeutic effectiveness of these interventions. An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses was conducted to determine the efficacy of psychological interventions in improving the QoL and psychological wellbeing of patients with cancer and mental illness. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, namely PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2) was used to evaluate research methodological rigor. The 12 papers analyzed in this umbrella review explored psychological therapy for cancer and psychiatric patients. The included reviews covered in total 8,198 studies. The AMSTAR-2 rated 8 of 12 studies as high-quality and 4 as intermediate. A total of 369 studies examined cancer, 166 schizophrenia and 165 psychoses. Psychological therapy improved the QoL for cancer, schizophrenia and psychosis by 1.87, 1.48 and 1.61, respectively. Psychiatric and cancer patients have anxiety, sleep issues and a lower QoL. This umbrella study showed that psychological interventions improved QoL in both groups of patients. Psychological therapy appears to improve cancer and mental illness patients' QoL and wellbeing. Most evidence is from highand middle-income nations. Therefore, further high-quality research that covers a larger geographical area and rigorous systematic reviews with complete meta-analyses is needed to gain useful insights in this field.

Gluteus medius contracture: A case report and review of the literature.

Bilateral gluteus medius contractures in adults are rare in clinical practice, with only a few cases reported. These contractures may result from repeated intramuscular injections during childhood. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic process, treatment, and outcomes can provide insights into effective management strategies. A 28-year-old female presented with an abnormal walking posture characterized by an out-toeing gait. She reported long-standing difficulties in walking and sought medical attention to improve her mobility and quality of life. The patient was diagnosed with bilateral gluteus medius contractures. The patient underwent open surgical release of the contractures on both sides, followed by a structured rehabilitation program to restore muscle function and improve gait. Postoperative exercise guidance was provided to ensure optimal recovery. At the 1-year follow-up, the patient demonstrated significant improvement in gait, functional abilities, and overall quality of life. She expressed high satisfaction with the surgical and rehabilitative outcomes. Once diagnosed with gluteus medius contracture, early surgical intervention is recommended. Through case reports and literature review, we have summarized the etiology, diagnostic methods, clinical characteristics, and existing treatment options for this condition.

The prolonged health sequelae “of the COVID-19 pandemic” in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundSurvivors of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) often face persistent and significant challenges that affect their physical, mental, and financial wellbeing, which can significantly diminish their overall quality of life. The emergence of new symptoms or the persistence of existing ones after a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) diagnosis has given rise to a complex clinical issue known as “long COVID-19” (LC). This situation has placed additional strain on global healthcare systems, underscoring the urgent need for ongoing clinical management of these patients. While numerous studies have been conducted on the long-term effects of COVID-19, our systematic review, and meta-analysis, is the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, providing a comprehensive understanding of the situation in the region and highlighting the necessity for continuous clinical management.ObjectiveThis study aimed to systematically synthesize evidence on the persistent sequelae of COVID-19 and their predictors in sub-Saharan Africa.MethodsA thorough search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google/Google Scholar, African online journals, and selected reference lists, from the inception of these databases until January 12, 2024. A meta-analysis of proportions was conducted using the random-effects restricted maximum-likelihood model. The association between various factors was also analyzed to determine the pooled factors that influence long COVID-19 outcomes.ResultsOur comprehensive analysis of 16 research articles, involving a total of 18,104 participants revealed a pooled prevalence of COVID-19 sequelae at 42.1% (95% CI: 29.9–55.4). The long-term health sequelae identified in this review included persistent pulmonary sequelae (27.5%), sleep disturbance (22.5%), brain fog (27.4%), fatigue (17.4%), anxiety (22.3%), and chest pain (13.2%). We also found a significant association was observed between comorbidities and long COVID-19 sequelae [POR = 4.34 (95% CI: 1.28–14.72)], providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing long COVID-19 outcomes.ConclusionCOVID-19 can have long-lasting effects on various organ systems, even after a person has recovered from the infection. These effects can include brain fog, pulmonary symptoms, sleep disturbances, anxiety, fatigue, and other neurological, psychiatric, respiratory, cardiovascular, and general symptoms. It is crucial for individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 to receive careful follow-up care to assess and reduce any potential organ damage and maintain their quality of life.Systematic review registrationClinicaltrial.gov, identifier CRD42024501158.

Impact of vitamin D supplementation on symptom severity and quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A meta-analysis.

Vitamin D supplementation could offer irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients significant improvements in terms of symptom severity and overall quality of life (QoL). Yet, the potential benefits and risks associated with vitamin D supplementation still require additional investigation. We aimed to evaluate the impact of vitamin D supplementation on IBS using a systematic review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive search was carried out utilizing 4 electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library) to identify articles published in English-language peer-reviewed journals. The odds ratios (ORs), risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences (MDs), along with their respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), were computed. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the appropriate p-value and Cochrane Q and I2 statistics. For the analysis, RevMan 5.3 was utilized. Nine randomized controlled trials involving a total of 780 participants were included in this study. Vitamin D supplementation, in adolescents and young adults with IBS, improves the IBS symptoms severity score, QoL and serum 25(OH)D levels compared to controls. We obtained an OR of 2.34 (95% CI: 1.56-3.50) for change in the IBS severity scoring system (IBS-SSS), OR = 2.51 (95% CI: 1.71-3.70) for change in QoL, low risk of any adverse events (RR 0.49 (95% CI: 0.35-0.69)), and substantial changes in serum 25(OH)D level (MD = 11.29 (95% CI: 7.13-15.45)). Results were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Vitamin D supplementation could lead to better IBS management with a low risk of adverse events.

AI and VR-Powered Interventions for Social Anxiety

This study aims to investigate the potential benefits and efficacy of incorporating Artificial Intelligence into mental health interventions for individuals battling social anxiety. The objective is to evaluate how different AI interventions influence the reduction of symptoms, social functioning, and overall quality of life. The research will examine the feasibility of AI as a means of delivering Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and compare its effectiveness with established therapeutic approaches. The methodology involves a systematic literature review and comprehensive database searches. The findings suggest that AI therapy chatbots, which use machine learning to deliver individualized interventions, present an accessible and scalable alternative for mental health assistance, with the potential to relieve anxiety and depression symptoms. Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) efficiently tackles social anxiety, although further study on AI's effectiveness in this setting is needed.

Exploring the tipping point: a qualitative study of labour marked experiences among young people with first episode of schizophrenia.

Work holds significant value in the lives of most individuals, impacting various aspects such as identity, health, and the economy. However, young individuals with schizophrenia often encounter challenges in accessing and maintaining employment. Despite this, knowledge regarding their experiences with labor market is sparse. The study aimed to explore perspectives on labor market affiliation and vocational intervention in relation to quality of life and health among young people with schizophrenia. A qualitative approach was employed, applying individual interviews as data collection method. Twelve patients with first episode of schizophrenia were recruited from two outpatient clinics. Thematic analysis was used, following an inductive process. A user panel was established to ensure quality and relevance of the study. Three key themes were identified from the analysis: 1. "Work is simultaneously rewarding and demanding", highlighting the struggle to balance the benefits of employment with the difficulties of meeting labor market requirements; 2. "Mental health, stigma and work: A complex interplay", which concerned how work simultaneously contributes to stress and reduces psychiatric symptoms; 3. "Supported employment: Facilitating work-life balance", concerning how supported employment intervention facilitated a better work-life balance, enhancing overall quality of life, under specific conditions. Young individuals with schizophrenia are highly motivated to work, yet encounter significant barriers to labour market participation, related both to their mental health condition and societal stigma. Supported employment programmes emerge as crucial in empowering individuals with schizophrenia to navigate the complexities of the labour market while managing their mental health effectively.

Three-Plane Calcaneal Osteotomy With Joint Preservation vs Subtalar Arthrodesis to Treat Painful Calcaneal Fracture Malunions.

Calcaneal fracture malunion (CFM) commonly occurs with multiple pathologic changes and progressive pain and difficulty walking. The purpose of this study was to propose a modified 3-plane joint-preserving osteotomy for the treatment of CFM with subtalar joint incongruence, and to compare its efficacy to subtalar arthrodesis. A retrospective comparative analysis of the data of 56 patients with CFM admitted from January 2017 to December 2022 was performed. Twenty-six patients were in the osteotomy group and 30 in the arthrodesis group. Computed tomographic (CT) scans were used for measurement of the intraarticular steps. Radiologic parameters, visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scores were compared between the 2 groups of patients to assess the outcome preoperatively and at last follow-up, which averaged 22.6 ± 3.6 months and 27.6 ± 3.6 months for the osteotomy and arthrodesis groups, respectively. Improvements in pain, function, and overall quality of life were obtained in both groups compared with the preoperative values at last follow-up. The VAS and SF-12 scores were similar between the groups at the last follow-up. In the osteotomy group, the average CT scan-measured intraarticular step-offs were significantly reduced from 3.7 ± 1.2 mm to 0.9 ± 0.3 mm. The osteotomy group showed improvement in pronation and supination range of motion (ROM) of the feet (P < .01). The correction of the ankle height and Meary angle were slightly better in the osteotomy group. In this short-term follow-up study, good results were achieved in both joint-preserving osteotomy and subtalar arthrodesis groups for the treatment of CFM with subtalar joint incongruence. The osteotomy group preserved the subtalar joint and achieved improvements in pronation and supination ROM.

Actual Roles of Occupational Therapists in Palliative and Hospice Care: A Scoping Review.

This study reviewed the role of occupational therapist's in palliative and hospice care over the past 20years. A scoping review following Arksey and O'Malley's five stages was undertaken using PubMed, OTseeker, Scopus, Elsevier, Cochrane Library-Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo, Web of Science and Google Scholar. A total of 41 articles were reviewed. The most publications occurred in 2010, 2011, 2015, and 2023. The majority of the studies (48.7%) were of qualitative design. Various roles of occupational therapists have been defined in palliative care: discovering occupational meaning in the last periods of life and supporting occupational participation, management of persistent physical and psychological symptoms, especially pain and fatigue, improving or supporting the quality of life for individuals under palliative care, supporting mental well-being, supporting social participation, use of adaptive technologies, providing individuals with confidence and comfort. Occupational therapists also have various duties in maintaining palliative-hospice care at home include evaluating the individual at home and supporting home care and rehabilitation after discharge. Interventions for caregivers or supporting caregivers who have lost their roles, occupations or jobs in the care process are also among the roles of occupational therapists. Occupational therapy within the context of palliative care aims to assist individuals in attaining their highest level of independence in important occupations. Occupational therapists play a crucial role in coordinating and facilitating safe transitions from the hospital to home, aiming to improve the overall quality of life and reduce hospital stays.

Workplace Ambiance: Crucial for Mental Well-being

This article delves into how the workplace affects one's mental health. Through a case study of a Chinese telecommunications customer service agent, it illustrates how job stress, career confusion, and emotional/social distress can impact employees' psyche. The article suggests multiple intervention strategies, such as psychological counseling, behavioral intervention, mindset adjustment, self-confidence building, interpersonal relationship improvement, and social skill enhancement. The aim is to assist employees in effectively addressing workplace challenges and fostering professional development. The results of the interviews indicate that individuals can effectively reduce psychological stress, restore work motivation, and significantly improve their overall quality of life after receiving psychological counseling and behavioral interventions. These interventions do not only help individuals better adapt to the work environment, but also help them find more satisfaction and accomplishment in their careers. Through this comprehensive intervention approach, individuals can better manage their emotions and establish a healthier work-life balance, thus maintaining a positive attitude in the workplace and achieving mutual growth for both the individual and the organization.

IMPACT OF PHYSICAL THERAPY ON PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION AND SEXUAL HEALTH IN POSTPARTUM WOMEN

This study aims to investigate the impact of physical therapy on pelvic floor dysfunction and its subsequent effects on sexual function, incontinence, pelvic floor distress, and quality of life in postpartum women. A total of 100 postpartum women with diagnosed pelvic floor dysfunction participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics, including age, parity, time postpartum, and baseline measures of pelvic floor dysfunction. Pre- and post-therapy assessments were conducted using standardized measures, including the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ7), Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI20), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ12), and the Short Form 36 (SF36) for quality of life. Pelvic floor strength was assessed through physical examination. The results revealed significant improvements in sexual function (p = 0.023), with a moderate to strong positive correlation between sexual function and quality of life (r = 0.72, p = 0.001). Incontinence impact and pelvic floor distress showed trends of improvement but did not reach statistical significance. Pelvic floor strength showed no significant change post-therapy (p = 0.782). The study also observed a significant negative relationship between pelvic floor distress and sexual function (r = -0.32, p = 0.012). These findings suggest that while physical therapy can significantly improve sexual function and overall quality of life, its impact on incontinence and pelvic floor strength may require further attention. The study highlights the importance of addressing sexual health in pelvic floor dysfunction management, suggesting potential areas for refining physical therapy protocols for postpartum women.

Catechin-Based Polyphenol Nanoparticles Ameliorated Ferroptosis to Alleviate Brain Injury after Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhagic stroke (ICH) is a highly aggressive disease, with a high incidence and mortality rate. Iron deposition following ICH leads to oxidative damage and motor dysfunction, significantly impacting the overall quality of life for those affected. Here, a polyphenolic nanomedicine, catechin-based polyphenol nanoparticles surface-modified by thiol-terminated poly(ethylene glycol) (CNPs@PEG), was developed through the oxidative polymerization and self-assembly of catechin, a natural compound in tea. Due to its potent antioxidant and metal-chelating properties, CNPs@PEG effectively maintained blood-brain barrier integrity, reduced brain edema, significantly increased the survival rate of mice with cerebral hemorrhage and markedly improved neurological deficits after ICH. Mechanistically, CNPs@PEG accomplishes this by chelating iron, enhancing tissue antioxidant capacity, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting iron deposition. This approach holds promise as a targeted therapeutic strategy for addressing cerebral hemorrhage and other conditions associated with iron overload.

OBSERVATION ON THE CLINICAL VALUE OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE NURSING INTERVENTION ON PATIENTS WITH GYNECOLOGICAL IRREGULAR MENSTRUATION

The study rigorously investigates the clinical utility and efficacy of nursing interventions based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in treating patients suffering from gynecological irregular menstruation. The primary objective is to assess not only the impact on menstrual regularity but also the overall psychological well-being and quality of life of the affected individuals. Conducted at the Pingxiang Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Jiangxi, China, the research employs a multifaceted, comprehensive approach. It combines traditional TCM therapies—herbal remedies, acupuncture—with modern medical assessments to offer a holistic treatment plan. Participants, after a thorough diagnostic evaluation, received individually tailored care plans that included dietary guidance and lifestyle recommendations. The study yielded encouraging results, with significant improvements in menstrual regularity and a reduction in associated symptoms among the participants. Moreover, the study found that the holistic care model of TCM contributed to enhanced psychological well-being and overall quality of life for the patients. Furthermore, the TCM-based nursing interventions resulted in higher patient compliance, greater satisfaction, and fewer instances of recurring illness. The compelling findings support the integration of TCM-based nursing interventions into contemporary healthcare practices, especially for gynecological issues. The study not only suggests the potential for improved patient outcomes but also emphasizes the need for future research to further validate these promising results. The study thus lays the groundwork for further research and potential healthcare policy changes.