Quality Of Life In Patients Research Articles

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Disease Severity and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation, Impulsivity, and Quality of Life in Untreated Patients Diagnosed With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Objective Emotion regulation is an important skill to cultivate in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) for helping with the positive prognosis of their disease. Patients with OCD exhibit higher rates of impulsivity compared to healthy volunteers. According to previous studies, there is significant impairment in the quality of life in OCD. Despite their importance, no study has yet been conducted on the interrelation of these clinical parameters in OCD patients. We investigated the relationship between disease severity, emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and quality of life in untreated OCD patients.Methods This study included 40 untreated outpatients with a diagnosis of OCD. We applied the following form and scales: Sociodemographic and clinical data form, the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale Short Form, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Short Form.Results We found a positive relationship (p<0.001) between emotional dysregulation and impulsivity in OCD patients. A positive relationship (p=0.003) was identified between disease severity and emotional dysregulation, while an inverse relationship (p<0.001) was observed between disease severity and quality of life-psychological health. Increased impulsivity and emotional dysregulation were also associated with a deterioration in quality of life.Conclusion There is a significant positive relationship between emotional dysregulation and impulsivity in OCD patients. These clinical parameters may serve as important targets for treatment approaches in OCD patients and thus should be considered in the future work.

Research progress of acupuncture for modulating the inflammatory response in treatment of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly people. Acupuncture can effectively reduce the symptoms of PD and improve the life quality of patients. In this paper, we reviewed the relevant literature on acupuncture modulation of PD inflammation in recent years from the perspective of neuroinflammation. The results showed that the mechanism of acupuncture for inflammatory responses in treatment of PD is closely related to inhibiting the glial cell activation, regulating the peripheral immune cells, suppressing the release of inflammatory factors, inducing anti-inflammatory factor expression, modulating the expression of inflammatory signaling pathways, and attenuating the intestinal inflammation. It may be effective for alleviating neuroinflammation, reducing neuronal damage, and delaying the progression of PD. This paper provides the evidences and ideas for the deepening research of the mechanism of PD treated with acupuncture and moxibustion in the future.

The impact of cognitive behavioral therapy on disease uncertainty, stressful life events, quality of life, anxiety, and depression in glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy: a quasi-experimental study

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on disease uncertainty and stressful life events in glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study enrolled 90 glioma patients from Sanmenxia Central Hospital between January and December 2021. Patients were divided into an intervention group (n = 45) or a control group (n = 45). The intervention group received cognitive behavioral therapy provided by nurses, while the control group received routine nursing care. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using the Mishel uncertainty in illness scale (MUIS), life events scale (LES), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS), and quality of life scale (WHOQOL-BREF).ResultsAfter four cycles of chemotherapy, the study group demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in MUIS and LES scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The study group showed significantly lower SAS and SDS scores than the control group (p < 0.05). Finally, the study group reported significantly higher WHOQOL-BREF scores than the control group (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe study revealed that the group that received CBT showed significant improvements in the psychological well-being of glioma patients undergoing chemotherapy. These findings suggest that incorporating CBT into standard nursing care can effectively improve the psychological well-being and quality of life of glioma patients during chemotherapy.

Therapies for Advanced Parkinson's Disease in Sweden: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Using Real-World Data.

The Swedish Parkinson's Disease (PD) Registry provides rich data on cost and quality of life for patients receiving device-aided therapies (DATs) for Parkinson's disease in Sweden. This study sought to use this real-world evidence to determine the cost-effectiveness profile of specific DATs in Sweden. We developed a state transition (Markov) model to represent disease progression over time and used published clinical data to represent short- and long-term disease outcomes. We used data from the Swedish PD Registry to assign costs and quality of life measures (utilities) to each health state and modelled total costs and outcomes over a 20-year time horizon. The four treatment groups modelled were: best medical therapy, deep brain stimulation, levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel, and continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion. We calculated results from both payer and societal perspectives. The most cost-effective intervention was deep brain stimulation (DBS), which dominated all other interventions. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the key drivers of uncertainty were the transition probabilities between successive Hoehn and Yahr stages on each treatment. Results were consistent from both payer and societal perspectives. DBS is a cost-effective use of resources in Sweden. However, uncertainty remains regarding long-term symptom control as well as quality of life within specific health states for all device-aided therapies, and further data are needed to fully validate the model projections and provide more insight into areas of future research.

Erratum: Pervasive role of pruritus in impaired quality of life in patients with primary biliary cholangitis: Data from the GLIMMER study

Erratum: Pervasive role of pruritus in impaired quality of life in patients with primary biliary cholangitis: Data from the GLIMMER study

Cost-Effectiveness of Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators in Surgically Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are increasingly used in patients with congenital heart disease, most commonly in surgically repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF). Studies have examined patient outcomes after ICD implantation; however, the cost-effectiveness of ICDs in rTOF is unknown. We sought to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of typical medical management plus ICD (TMM + ICD) for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) compared to typical management alone (TMM) in high-risk patients with rTOF. We created a Markov model to compare costs and quality of life (QOL) of TMM + ICD vs TMM for a hypothetical adolescent with rTOF and higher than average risk of SCD over 20years. Model parameters were derived from the literature and institutional data. We assumed that SCD risk increased from 0.4%/year to 1.2%/year over 20years, that the ICD was 99% effective in preventing SCD, and a frequency of ICD replacement of 11years. We used sensitivity analyses to explore uncertainty around model assumptions. Costs were $62,895 for TMM + ICD and $19,004 for TMM. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for TMM + ICD was $53,386/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) which is below threshold of $100,000/QALY that is usually considered cost-effective. The model was sensitive to SCD risk, costs of ICD implantation and management, cost of ICD replacement, and utilities of living with rTOF and of ICD implantation. Based on risk of SCD, cost of device implantation and management including complications, and our current understanding of the impact of ICD implantation on patient QOL, ICD therapy for primary prevention of SCD in rTOF can constitute a cost-effective strategy.

Nano and liposome cancer chemotherapy: A review of advances in drug delivery with applications.

The high incidence of malignant tumors continues to pose a significant threat to public health. In recent years, there have been notable advancements in tumor treatment methods, leading to substantial changes in the concepts and clinical approaches to treatment. The primary clinical methods for treating malignant tumors currently include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Among these, chemotherapy is one of the most crucial and comprehensive treatment strategies. The rapid progress in nanoscience has fostered the development of nanocarrier compounds and their clinical applications in disease treatment. Notably, nanomedicines, including goserelin sustained-release implants, doxorubicin liposomes, albumin-bound paclitaxel, and paclitaxel liposomes, have been effectively utilized in tumor treatment in China [1]. The article presents a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in utilizing various nanocarriers for combination therapy in tumors. It also examines the clinical application and efficacy of drug delivery carriers. The development of efficient and safe co-delivery systems that facilitate the effective transport and precise release of drugs within the cancerous tissues while also elucidating the internalization of nanoparticles into tumor cells and their functional mechanisms represents critical areas for future research. Concurrently, advancements in nanocarriers and tumor treatment are anticipated to yield superior therapeutic outcomes and improved quality of life for cancer patients.

A Survey of People Living with Narcolepsy in the USA: Path to Diagnosis, Quality of Life, and Treatment Landscape from the Patient's Perspective.

Narcolepsy is a chronic, burdensome neurologic disorder that significantly impacts the daily life of people with narcolepsy (PWN). Real-world perspectives from PWN can help address their unique experiences and treatment needs. PWN were surveyed to examine the path to a narcolepsy diagnosis, the breadth of symptom burden experienced by PWN, and current trends in treatment. A 15-min online survey was sent by email to 3959 US members of MyNarcolepsyTeam (February 2022). The survey was divided into three sections (screening [patient characteristics], diagnosis/symptoms, and patient quality of life) for a total of 27 questions. In total, 110 members completed the survey. Of these, most were female (84%) and nearly half (48%) were diagnosed with narcolepsy type 1 (with cataplexy). Approximately one-third (31%) of members reported receiving a definitive diagnosis ≥ 10 years after first speaking with a clinician; most were previously diagnosed with depression (73%). Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS, 93%) and fatigue (84%) were the most frequently reported symptoms that prompted respondents to seek a diagnosis or feel that something was wrong. Additionally, EDS was reported as the most troubling symptom (92%). Respondents' most desired treatment outcome was to stop sleeping during the day (77%). Most (76%) indicated an extremely or very severe impact on daily life. One in eight respondents were not taking any medication for their narcolepsy. Of those taking medication, 58% received polypharmacy to address narcolepsy symptoms. These survey findings further characterize the diagnostic delay, symptom burden, and treatment needs of PWN. Understanding the breadth of impact of narcolepsy from the patients' perspective could improve shared decision-making between PWN and their treating clinicians.

Daytime sleepiness and health-related quality of life in patients with childhood-onset craniopharyngioma

Overall survival rates after craniopharyngioma (CP) are high (92%), but frequently quality of life (QoL) is impaired in patients with CP involving hypothalamic structures. Tumour- and/or treatment-related hypothalamic lesions may result in disturbances of circadian rhythms including increased daytime sleepiness. We investigated the relationship between health-related QoL and daytime sleepiness in patients with childhood-onset CP. After a median follow-up of 10 years (range: 1–39), 119 CP patients (63 female), who were recruited 2000–2022 in the KRANIOPHARYNGEOM 2000/2007 and KRANIOPHARYNGEOM Registry 2019 trials, were assessed for daytime sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and for QoL by EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. CP patients with increased daytime sleepiness (ESS score > 10, n = 34) had worse self-assessment of QoL (p = 0.003), when compared to CP patients with normal ESS scores (n = 85). Increased daytime sleepiness was negatively correlated with QoL (r=-0.395; p < 0.001). Surgical hypothalamic lesions, detectable after surgical intervention in 92.9% of the reference-assessed patients, were associated with significantly higher ESS scores, whereas such impact could not be observed for presurgical hypothalamic involvement of the CP (72.4% of the reference-assessed patients). Compared to patients with an ESS score in the normal range, patients with increased daytime sleepiness suffered from impaired QoL in all functional scales and the global QoL scale of the EORTC QLQ-C30. As increased daytime sleepiness plays an important role for QoL in survivors of CP, hypothalamus-sparing surgical treatment strategies should be considered as state of the art in patients with CP for prevention of increased daytime sleepiness.Clinical trial registration NCT01272622; NCT04158284, NCT00258453.

Relationship between core symptoms, function, and quality of life in colorectal cancer patients: a network analysis.

To identify core symptoms in patients with colorectal cancer and investigate how these symptoms correlate with functional status and quality of life (QoL). This study included patients over 18 years of age who underwent therapeutic surgery for colorectal cancer with or without a stoma. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer - Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC-QLQ C30) and Colorectal Cancer Module (EORTC-QLQ CR29) were used. Data analysis involved constructing networks using the qgraph package in R, identifying core symptoms based on strength centrality, and assessing centrality stability using the bootnet package. The study included 511 patients: 321 without a stoma and 190 with a stoma. The QoL score for both groups were 55.06 and 55.09, showing no significant difference (p= 0.991). Fatigue and pain are common core symptoms in colorectal cancer surgery patients, whereas appetite loss (rs = 0.37) is specific to those without a stoma and body image concerns (rs = 1.06) are central issues for stoma patients. Notably, despite its prevalence and severity, anxiety was not a core symptom in either group of patients. In the QoL network, emotional functioning served as an intermediary link between QoL and core symptoms in patients without a stoma, whereas QoL was directly associated with core symptoms in patients with a stoma. Improving quality of life requires distinct clinical pathways depending on whether the patient has a stoma, necessitating individualized symptom management strategies in the early postoperative period.

Combined microscopic and neuroendoscopic treatment effects on psychological and cognitive outcomes in ruptured intracranial aneurysms.

Intracranial aneurysms, characterized by focal arterial wall dilation, pose significant neurosurgical challenges due to their potential for rupture and hemorrhage, leading to severe clinical outcomes, including fatality. Patients often experience profound psychological and social impacts, such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment, affecting their quality of life. Rapid progression and high mortality necessitate timely intervention. Advances in neurosurgical techniques, including microscopic surgery and neuroendoscopy, offer distinct advantages. Microscopic surgery provides precision and direct visualization, while neuroendoscopy ensures minimally invasive access and reduced tissue trauma. Integrating these methods optimizes treatment efficacy and clinical outcomes. To evaluate the impact of combined microscopic and neuroendoscopic techniques on psychological, cognitive outcomes, and quality of life in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms. The study focused on 189 patients with intracranial aneurysm rupture and hemorrhage from January 2020 to May 2024 as the objects of observation and analysis. They were randomly divided into a control group (treated with simple microscope surgery, n = 94) and an observation group (treated with microscope combined with neuroendoscopy, n = 95). The treatment effects of the two groups were observed, mainly including depression and anxiety scale scores, cognitive function assessment results and quality of life assessment data. Before treatment, the depression and anxiety scale scores, cognitive function assessment results and quality of life assessment data of the two groups of patients at different time points were compared, and there was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). After microscope combined with neuroendoscopy treatment, the study revealed that the observation group surpassed the control group in alleviating depression and anxiety, accelerating cognitive function recovery, and enhancing quality of life, with these differences being statistically significant (P < 0.05). Surgical treatment combined with microscopy and neuroendoscopy has a significant positive effect on the mental health, cognitive function and overall quality of life of patients with intracranial aneurysm rupture and bleeding, can shorten the operation time and treatment time, and provides a new strategic reference for clinical treatment.

Effects of aerobic cycling training in patients with gynaecologic cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema: A randomised comparative study.

Lower extremity lymphedema (LEL) after gynaecological cancer is a chronic disease that affects quality of life and functionality negatively. Exercise therapies help to volume reduction and improved lower extremity functionality and quality of life in patients with lymphedema. However, studies on this subject were mostly focused on upper extremity lymphedema. In this study, we aimed to compare complete decongestive therapy (CDT) and CDT + cycle ergometry in terms of quality of life, lower extremity functionality and volume measurement in patients with gynaecological cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema. This study included 63 patients who gave written and verbal informed consent. The participants were randomly divided into two groups as cycling (32 patients) and non-cycling group (31 patients). Demographic and clinical data of patients were recorded. While patients in non-cycling group were treated with only CDT for 3weeks, patients in cycling group were treated with CDT + cycle ergometry for 3weeks. Cycle ergometry treatment was performed with Voit AT-200 Black Collection horizontal bike for 20min. Exercise intensity was adjusted to 40-59% of heart rate reserve (HRR). Volume measurement was evaluated by circumference measurement method, quality of life was evaluated by Lymphedema Quality of Life Questionnaire (LYMQOL) and lower extremity functionality was evaluated by Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) in all participants. Both cycling group and non-cycling group benefited from treatments in terms of volume reduction, LEFS and LYMQOL (function, appearance, symptom, mood and overall quality of life) values (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). In comparison of cycling and non-cycling groups, significant differences were found in favor of cycling group in terms of delta (Δ) extremity volume values (ml), Δ LEFS, Δ LYMQOL (function, appearance, symptom, mood and overall quality of life) (p = 0.04, p = 0.03, p < 0.001, p = 0.04, p = 0.002, p = 0.002, p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). In other words; both groups benefited from treatments in terms of volume reduction, functionality and quality of life. However, benefit of cycling group is greater than benefit of non-cycling group. Aerobic exercise added to CDT in gynaecological cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema is effective in terms of volume reduction, improved lower extremity functionality and quality of life. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06200948 .

Correlation of inflammatory markers with depression and sleep disorders accompanying the prodromal stage of Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with increasing incidence and disability rates globally, placing a heavy burden on patients and their families. In the prodromal phase of PD, nonmotor symptoms, particularly depression and sleep disorders, are frequent, with profound effects on disease progression and patient quality of life. Emerging research highlights the critical role of inflammatory markers-including interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-in the pathogenesis of prodromal PD. These inflammatory mediators participate in neurodegenerative processes and may induce or exacerbate depressive symptoms and sleep disorders by disrupting the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and affecting neurotransmitter, including serotonin, metabolism. Understanding their correlations with nonmotor symptoms in prodromal PD remains incomplete, limiting our ability to develop targeted interventions. This comprehensive review aims to investigate the specific correlations between inflammatory markers and nonmotor symptoms-particularly depression and sleep disorders-in prodromal PD. The findings could have important practical applications, potentially leading to the development of new diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for managing PD. By identifying and understanding these correlations, healthcare providers may better predict disease progression and implement more effective treatments for nonmotor symptoms in PD.

Clinical Correlates of Non-Motor Symptoms and Quality of Life in Parkinson's Disease Patients: Analysis of Motor and Non-Motor Features

Clinical Correlates of Non-Motor Symptoms and Quality of Life in Parkinson's Disease Patients: Analysis of Motor and Non-Motor Features

Comparing Five Major Knee Osteoarthritis Cohort Studies: Similarities, Differences, and Unique Aspects of CHECK, OAI, FNIH, IMI-APPROACH, and MOST.

ObjectiveTo analyze and synthesize the information available from five pivotal, large-scale, multicenter, observational studies (CHECK, OAI, FNIH Biomarkers Consortium, IMI-APPROACH, and MOST) focusing on knee osteoarthritis (OA), which can be used to elucidate disease progression, risk factors, and the effectiveness of potential interventions.DesignFor this narrative review, a comprehensive literature search and data extraction from official web pages and scientific databases were conducted to compare methodologies, in- and exclusion criteria, outcomes, and cohort characteristics across the studies. Thematic, comparative, and qualitative analyses were employed to identify trends, commonalities, and disparities among the findings.ResultsThe studies collectively enhanced understanding of the onset and progression of knee OA, and in several of the studies, hip OA, emphasizing the importance of both systemic and local risk factors. Advanced imaging and biomarkers are important components in all the cohorts, with the goal of aiding early diagnosis and tracking disease progression. All cohorts evaluated unique markers generally not available in the other cohorts, while other factors overlap, suggesting possibilities for combining or cross-validating between cohorts.ConclusionsThe collaborative efforts of major OA research significantly advance our understanding of knee OA. These studies highlight the importance of a multifaceted approach, integrating advanced imaging, biomarkers, and longitudinal data to tackle the complexities of OA. By synthesizing findings and addressing knowledge gaps such as heterogeneity of patients and used measurements, and use of novel pain measures, future research can develop more effective diagnostic tools and treatments, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for OA patients.

Impact of Surgical and Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy on Quality of Life in Case of Periodontitis.

This study aims to evaluate the status of periodontitis patients and changes in their quality of life (QoL) after non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatment using OHIP-14, OHRQoL-UK questionnaires, and VAS. Of the 50 periodontitis patients included in the study, 27 received only non-surgical treatment. The remaining 23 individuals received additional surgical treatment because full recovery was not achieved with non-surgical periodontal treatment. OHIP-14, OHRQoL-UK questionnaires, and VAS were administered to these patients before periodontal treatment and after (4th and 12th weeks) to assess QoL measurements. OHRQoL-UK results found that there was a statistically significant increase in the 3rd month (T2) values after the flap operation compared to the initial session (T0) (p < 0.05). Compared to non-surgical periodontal treatment (T1) with T2, the difference was not statistically significant except in the pain/discomfort category (p > 0.05). Although the results of the OHIP-14 questionnaire at T1 and T2 showed a significant difference compared to T0 values (p < 0.05), no significant difference was found between T1 and T2 (p > 0.05). An increase in some values was observed in VAS results compared to T0, but it was not significant (p > 0.05). VAS, OHIP-14, and OHRQoL-UK questionnaires have shown that periodontal treatment improves the QoL of patients with periodontitis. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06539364.

Data acquisition and processing for IoT-based intelligent medical monitoring: Applications in biomechanics

With the rapid development of Internet of Things (IoT) technology, its integration into intelligent medical monitoring devices has significantly transformed the healthcare landscape. This integration not only enhances the functionality of medical monitoring equipment but also improves the real-time accuracy of data collection. This review comprehensively discusses the data acquisition and processing methods of intelligent medical monitoring devices based on IoT, with a particular focus on their applications in molecular and cellular biomechanics. In the context of biomechanics, IoT technology offers new perspectives and tools for biomechanics research. By accurately monitoring mechanical changes at the cellular and molecular levels, IoT technology enhances our understanding of biological systems, thereby providing a scientific foundation for the early diagnosis and treatment of diseases. For instance, by observing the mechanical responses of cells, we can gain insights into how cells sense and react to changes in their external environment. We summarize the current research progress related to IoT data acquisition and processing methods for these devices, analyze the advantages and limitations of existing technologies, and explore future development trends. The review seeks to foster technological innovation and practical applications within this field, ultimately enhancing the quality of medical care and improving the overall quality of life for patients.

The Associations of Mindfulness and Self-Compassion on Quality of Life for Patients with Multiple Sclerosis, a Cross-Sectional Study from Turkey

Objective The aim of this study is to investigate the associations between self-compassion, mindfulness, emotional factors and multiple sclerosis (MS) related quality of life among the individuals with MS in Istanbul, Turkey. Results One hundred and thirteen MS patients participated in this cross-sectional study. In the linear regression model, older age, higher levels of disability, and higher anxiety levels significantly predicted lower MS related quality of life (p = .045, p = .023, p ≤ .001, respectively). Mindfulness component of the self-compassion scale significantly predicted better MS related quality of life (p = .007). The self-kindness and mindfulness subscale scores of the Self-Compassion Scale were positively and significantly correlated with the total scores of the Multiple Sclerosis International Quality of Life Questionnaire (r = .324, p = .003; r = .314, p = .003, respectively) Discussion These findings indicate that a high level of self-compassion and mindfulness has a positive impact on the quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis. Considering these effects within social dimensions, such as family and friendship, may contribute to improving patients’ overall quality of life.

Measurement properties of the Polish version of the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire Revised 14+ in the adult population

Measuring the quality of life in patients with cystic fibrosis is an important element of the patient care process. Many tools have been created for this measurement among adults. One of them is the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised 14+ (CFQ-R 14+). Its measurement properties have not been comprehensively assessed in the population of Polish adults. The aim of the study is to verify the construct validity, including structural and criterion validity, as well as internal consistency, of the Polish version of the CFQ-R 14+ in the population of adults with cystic fibrosis. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among adults with cystic fibrosis. After preparing the database, we performed a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) followed by exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using the parallel analysis method principal axis factoring with Oblimin rotation. Intercorrelations of questionnaire factors and the occurrence of relationships among items for the general scale results was checked. We also presented basic descriptive statistics (mean, median, standard deviation, skewness, kurtosis, minimum and maximum values). The analyses included responses from 220 adult patients. CFA results did not show adequate goodness of fit (χ2(1025) = 2112.35, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.831; TLI = 0.814; RMSEA = 0.069; SRMR = 0.074). After EFA, 6 factors were extracted, considering 40 out of 50 questions of the CFQ-R 14+. CFQ-R 14+ may be useful in assessing the quality of life of Polish adult patients with cystic fibrosis. Our analysis demonstrates that the optimal factor structure of the tool in this population includes 6 scales.

Pueraria Radix and Its Major Constituents Against Metabolic Diseases: Pharmacological Mechanisms and Potential Applications.

Metabolic diseases (MD), a series of chronic disorders, severely decrease the quality of life for patients but also cause a heavy economic burden. The ancient Chinese herb Pueraria Radix (PR) plays an important role in curing MD. Up to now, the bioactive compounds found in PR demonstrate effective actions in treating various metabolic disorders. This paper systematically summarizes the recent research advances on the pharmacological activities of PR and its constituents, explains the underlying mechanisms of preventing and treating MD. Besides, phytochemicals, drug delivery systems, clinical application, and safety of PR have been researched, hoping to provide valuable information for the future application, development, and improvement of PR as well as MD treatment. The information about PR was collected from various sources including classic books about Chinese herbal medicine and scientific databases including Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, ACS, SCOPUS, CNKI, Google Scholar, X-MOL, and WANFANG using keywords given and terms like pharmacological and phytochemical details of this plant. The chemical constituents isolated and identified from PR, such as isoflavones including puerarin, formononetin, daidzin, daidzein, genistein, and so forth, polysaccharides, alkaloids, starch, and other components have been proved to have the effect of anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-osteoporotic, anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) through PI3K/Akt, Nrf2/HO-1, LOX-1/ROS/Akt/eNOS, ERK1/2-Nrf2, GLP-1R, Caspase, MAPK, NF-κB, and other anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant signaling pathways. Also, the active contents of PR have been designed as drug delivery systems to improve the therapeutic effects of MD. It provides a preclinical basis for the efficacy of PR as an effective therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of MD. Even so, further studies are still needed to enhance bioavailability and expand clinical application.