Quality Of Life Index Scores Research Articles

Randomized controlled trial of frailty and disease stage in older people living with Chronic Kidney Disease

IntroductionThe GOAL trial, a cluster-randomised controlled trial, investigated the effect of comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) on frail older people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This paper describes (1) participant baseline characteristics, and (2) their relationship with CKD stage and frailty severity. MethodsSixteen kidney outpatient clinics (clusters) were randomly allocated 1:1 to CGA or usual care. Enrolled frail older people with CKD (Frailty Index >0.25; aged ≥65 years or ≥55 if First Nations people) received the intervention allocated to their cluster. CKD was defined as moderate (stages 3/4) or severe (stage 5/5D), and frailty categorised as moderate (>0.25 to <0.36), severe (0.36 to <0.45) or very severe (≥0.45). Participant characteristics were analysed using descriptive statistics. Statistical methods appropriate for type of outcome were used to describe the association of frailty and CKD categories with participant characteristics. ResultsOver a 27-month period, 240 people were recruited (55.7% male, 82.9% white/European). Mean age was 76.9 (SD: 6.6) and median FI was 0.39 (IQR: 0.32 – 0.47). The median EQ-5D-5L quality of life index score was worse in those with very severe frailty (0.57, IQR: 0.28 – 0.83) compared to severe frailty (0.85, IQR: 0.67 – 0.92) and moderate frailty (0.90, IQR: 0.82 – 0.93) (overall P <0.001). Median EQ-5D-5L was also worse in those with severe CKD (0.79, IQR: 0.40 – 0.89), compared to moderate CKD (median 0.87, IQR: 0.73 – 0.92; P 0.001). ConclusionThis cohort demonstrated poorer quality of life scores in those with more severe frailty and more advanced CKD.

Comparison of the effects of mechanical hippotherapy and Cawthorne-Cooksey exercises in patients with multiple sclerosis: Randomized trial

BackgroundPatients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) commonly encounter heightened postural instability and challenges in aligning their eyes, head, and bodily motions while engaging in specific tasks. This study aims to compare the effects of Cawthorne-Cooksey and mechanical hippotherapy exercises on fatigue, balance, gait, dizziness, and life quality in patients with MS. MethodsThe MS patients were randomly divided into Cawthorne-Cooksey (n:25) and mechanical hippotherapy exercise (n:25) groups. In addition to the traditional physical therapy program, Cawthorne-Cooksey and hippotherapy exercises were applied to the groups 3 days a week, for 8 weeks. The trial's clinical number is NCT06005909. The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS), Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Tinetti Balance and Gait Assessment Scale, and Ferrans&Powers Quality-of-Life Index were used for pre-and post-treatment assessment. ResultsBoth groups exhibited a significant decrease in FSS, FIS, and Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores, as well as an increase in Tinetti Balance and Gait Assessment Scale and Ferrans&Powers Quality-of-Life Index scores following treatment. In the inter-group comparison, the Tinetti balance and gait assessment and the Ferrans&Powers quality of life index scores were higher in the hippotherapy group compared to the Cooksey group. ConclusionsAlthough both forms of physical activity have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing fatigue among individuals with MS, hippotherapy shows superior efficacy in enhancing balance, gait, and overall quality of life.

Patient Burden of Nonsegmental Vitiligo: A US Real-World Survey of Dermatologists and Their Patients.

Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by destruction of melanocytes, leading to skin depigmentation. Vitiligo can have a high quality-of-life burden and profound impact on psychosocial well-being. The objectives of this study were to describe the self-reported patient burden among patients with nonsegmental vitiligo with≤10% affected body surface area, summarize the physician-reported psychosocial and psychological impact of vitiligo on patient lives, and describe disease characteristics and treatment history, goals, and satisfaction. Data were drawn from the Adelphi Vitiligo Disease Specific Programme™, a real-world, cross-sectional survey with retrospective data collection of physicians and patients with vitiligo, collected in the United States between October 2021 and April 2022. Separate surveys for dermatologists and patients contained questions on clinical and demographic characteristics of patients with vitiligo and burden of vitiligo. Treatment history, goals, and satisfaction were assessed together with the impact of vitiligo on quality of life. Sixty-one dermatologists provided data for 326 patients with≤10% affected body surface area (adults, n=221; adolescents, n=105); 90 of those patientsalso responded to the survey. The most common treatments were topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, and narrow-band ultraviolet-B phototherapy, with the main treatment goal being repigmentation. Physician-reported treatment satisfaction was 56%; 25% of patients reported frustration with treatment options. Physicians reported impact of vitiligo on everyday life in 46% of patients. Patients reported 12.7% overall work impairment; mean scores for Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale anxiety and depression domains were 3.5 and 2.2, respectively, and mean Vitiligo-specific Quality of Life index score was 26.9. Patients with facial involvement experienced higher burden than those without. A high patient burden was reported by dermatologists and their patients with vitiligo who had≤10% affected body surface area, including psychosocial and psychological consequences. Thesefindings highlight an unmet need in the treatment of vitiligo.

Quality of Life Assessment and Comparative Analysis of Anterolateral Thigh Flap and Pectoralis Major Myo-cutaneous Flap for Reconstruction of Post Excision Defects of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Present study is a comparative evaluation of the financial impact on choice of flap, clinical results as well as post resection quality of life assessment of cancer patients reconstructed with anterolateral thigh(ALT) flap and pectoralis major myo-cutaneous(PMMC) flap. Ethical clearance was obtained from institutional ethical committee. In this non-randomised, prospective study design among 49 oral squamous cell carcinoma cases, 39 cases were reconstructed using PMMC flap and 10 using ALT flap from year 2020 to 2022. These 2 flaps were compared in terms of parameters like time utilised for reconstruction, hospital stay, overall survival and Washington University Quality of Life index(UW-QOL) for head and neck cancer. Patients were followed regularly for post-operative complications. The University of Washington Quality of Life score (UW-QOL) questionnaire, version 4, was completed at six months post-operatively. Obtained data was statistically analysed using IBM® SPSSⓇ. Washington University Quality of Life index scores and esthetics are better with Antero-lateral thigh flap, with less overall post-operative complications. On the other hand Pectoralis myocutaneous flap has less surgical time and more salvage potential. Despite of Antero-lateral thigh flap having Good Washington University Quality of Life index scores, lesser post-operative complications and better esthetics; scale of developing nations is still tipping towards economical, less time consuming and less technique sensitive Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap.

Analysis of the effect of comprehensive physical and mental nursing for patients with acute cerebral infarction in intravenous thrombolytic therapy.

To evaluate the efficacy of comprehensive physical and mental nursing for patients with acute cerebral infarction (ACI) undergoing intravenous thrombolytic therapy and its impact on patients' quality of life and psychological state. A total of 200 patients with ACI, admitted to our hospital between December 2018 and December 2019, were included in the study. They were randomly assigned to either the control group or the experimental group using a random number table. The control group received routine care (basic care such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with daily activities, administering medications, and providing comfort measures), while the experimental group received comprehensive physical and mental nursing (physical care, phsycological surpport, education and conceling). Various parameters including quality of life index (QLI) scores, mental status scale in non-psychiatric settings (MSSNS) scores, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) scores, self-rating depression scale (SDS) scores, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores, changes in hemodynamic indicators, and incidence of adverse events during intravenous thrombolysis were compared between the two groups. The experimental group had higher QLI scores and lower MSSNS, SAS, SDS, and NIHSS scores compared to the control group (p = 0.33, 0.22, 0.35, 0.26, 0.042). The experimental group also exhibited a lower incidence of adverse reactions during intravenous thrombolysis (p = 0.02). Comprehensive physical and mental nursing for patients with ACI undergoing intravenous thrombolysis improves nursing efficacy, nursing satisfaction, quality of life, and patients' psychological state. These findings highlight the importance of implementing holistic nursing interventions to optimize patient outcomes in ACI management.

Measuring GPPGA, Pain, Symptom, and Quality of Life Index Scores in Untreated Generalized Pustular Psoriasis: Results from the Placebo Group of the Effisayil-2 Trial

Introduction &amp; Objectives: Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a chronic inflammatory, and potentially life-threatening skin disease, characterized by flares of sterile pustules. Spesolimab is approved to treat GPP flares in adults. Effisayil 2 (NCT04399837) evaluated the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous spesolimab in preventing GPP flares. Here, we report on the underlying disease burden of untreated GPP by longitudinally analyzing patients in the placebo group who did not experience a GPP flare.&#x0D; Materials &amp; Methods: Eligible patients with a history of GPP were randomized (1:1:1:1) to receive one of three subcutaneous spesolimab regimens or placebo for 48 weeks. Patients were assessed for measures of chronic disease burden through the use of Generalized Pustular Psoriasis Physician Global Assessment (GPPPGA) Total Score, Pain Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Psoriasis Symptom Scale (PSS) at baseline and at 4-week intervals during the trial, and Dermatology Quality of Life Index (DLQI) at baseline and weeks 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48.&#x0D; Results: 16/31 placebo-treated patients experienced a GPP flare over the 48-week observational period of the trial, defined as an increase in GPPPGA score by ≥2 from baseline and the pustular component of GPPPGA ≥2. Of the remaining (“non-flaring”) 15 patients, 40% (6/15) had at least one GPPPGA Total Score value of 2 (skin not clear or almost clear); 4/6 reported such score at ≥4 visits. Pain scores ranged from 0 to 92.47, with 47% (7/15) and 20% (3/15) of patients having at least one “moderate” and “severe” VAS score over 48 weeks, respectively. Most of the 7 patients’ pain scores fluctuated with episodic peaks and valleys. 47% (7/15) and 13% (2/15) of patients had at least one “moderate” and “severe” PSS score, respectively. “Moderate” and “very large” effect on quality of life was reported, at least once, in 67% (10/15) and 40% (6/15) of patients, respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: Acute flare was reported in more than 50% (16/31) of patients in the placebo group over 48 weeks. Despite not meeting the trial’s definition of GPP flare, most of the 15 “non-flaring” placebo-treated patients showed clear evidence of underlying GPP disease activity – nearly half did not have “clear” or “almost clear” skin and had moderate pain and symptoms; a small subset reported severe pain and symptoms. Majority of patients experienced a moderate to very large impact on quality of life over the 48 weeks. These findings suggest that untreated GPP negatively affects patients even in the absence of acute flare events.

Quality of Life in Hemodialysis Versus Peritoneal Dialysis Patients in Bahrain.

Chronic diseases, including chronic kidney disease, affect patients' quality of life (QOL). Hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) are renal replacement methods in these patients. This work aimed to study the relationship between QOLscores in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on HD and PD. This study was done at Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC), Bahrain, from May to July 2023. A standard QOL index score instrument in Arabic form was used on 76 HDand 38 PDpatients. The inclusion criteria included dialysis for at least three months and an age of more than 18 years with no severe morbidities or psychological diseases. The mean age of HD and PD patients was 58.7 ± 11.2 and 55.9 ± 12.1 years, respectively. Thirty-five (46.1%) of the HD patients and 17 (44.7%) of the PD patients were females. In most dimensions, the QOL score of the patients treated with PD was better than that of the HD group. The number of hospital admissions was statistically significantly higher in the HD group (p = 0.007); however, there was no significant difference in the causes of admissions (p = 0.131).In this study, we observed the highest QOL score in the family subscale (93.2 ± 9.2 and 98.6 ± 4.7), followed by the psychological/spiritual subscale (81.1 ± 16.7 and 97.6 ± 3.9) in the HD and PD groups, respectively), but it was statistically significantly higher in the PD group (p < 0.001). Our findings show that patients starting PD had better QOL scores in all domains than patients starting HD. Moreover, patients on PD maintained more active social support and ultimately felt better emotional well-being and physical health than those undergoing HD.

A comparative study of an online mindfulness coursework: Implications for health and functioning and quality of life

This quantitative comparative study was conducted to examine if, and to what extent, differences in health and functioning and quality of life exist for community college students who complete an academic mindfulness course. Surveyed student responses were captured by the Quality of Life Index (QLI) ( Ferrans and Powers, 1985 ), dependent variables measured, and a non-directional two-tailed independent (unpaired) samples t test conducted. A univariate post-test only comparison group design was conducted to measure results of the mindfulness coursework intervention at the conclusion of the courses. A non-probability convenience sampling of 154 participants was collected, with both descriptive and inferential statics calculated. Data results indicated a statistically significant difference in health and functioning between the comparison and the intervention groups as well as quality of life between the comparison and the intervention groups. Effect size (Cohen’s d) at a 95% confidence interval for those students who completed a mindfulness course was large for the overall QLI score as well as the health and functioning subscale. This study demonstrated positive results and statistical significance suggesting the utility of mindfulness coursework. Recommendations from this study include integrating mindfulness coursework in a classroom setting and offering mindfulness training as a stand-alone academic course.

Evaluation of Bowel Function of Women with Colorectal Endometriosis: a Cross-Sectional Study.

The objective was to evaluate bowel function in women with colorectal endometriosis according to treatment type. Cross-sectional study, carried out with 141 women with endometriosis, followed by the University of Campinas from May 2020 to April 2021. Women were divided into 3 groups according to the kind of treatment: 16 women with conservative surgery, 35 women with radical surgery treatment, and 90 women with clinical treatment. The clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of these women were evaluated. To access bowel outcome, we used the following questionnaires: the Bristol Stool Scale, the Bowel Function in the Community, the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), and the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20). The mean treatment time was 32.24 ± 29.37months. The women of the three groups had similar gastrointestinal quality of life index scores (p = 0.27) and pelvic floor distress inventory scores (p = 0.23). Women in the radical surgery group had a higher frequency of evacuatory effort and change in posture to evacuate (p = 0.01 and 0.009, respectively) than did those in the other groups. Women with constipation had worse quality of life and more pain than those without constipation. In conclusion, women with endometriosis treated with radical surgery (segmental resection) had a higher frequency of constipation. In addition, women with endometriosis and constipation had a worse quality of life and higher pain scores compared to those without constipation.

The application of traditional Chinese medicine nursing combined with the health education standard path in acute myeloid leukaemia

ObjectiveThe standard path of health education is a standardised health education method formulated according to the characteristics of the disease in question. This study aimed to explore the effect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) nursing combined with the health education standard path in terms of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). MethodsSixty patients with AML at Shijiazhuang Ping'an Hospital were recruited and divided into the control group (n = 30) and the intervention group (n = 30). Both groups received the same chemotherapy treatment, while the control group received routine nursing and the intervention group received a combined TCM–health education standard path intervention. The scores for the self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), Spitzer quality of life index (QLI), self-rating depression scale (SDS), awareness of TCM health education standard path content and nursing satisfaction were then compared. ResultsThe SAS and SDS scores of the patients decreased following the intervention, while the QLI score increased, with the intervention group significantly improved compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The awareness of TCM health education standard path content was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (P < 0.05), and the nursing satisfaction was also higher in the former than in the latter (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the hospitalisation cost and length of stay were lower in the intervention group than in the control group (P < 0.05). There were no statistical differences in the median survival time between the intervention group and the control group (P > 0.05). ConclusionThe application of TCM combined with the health education standard path has an effect in terms of reducing patients' anxiety and depression, improving their awareness of health education content and enhancing their nursing satisfaction.

Impact of Preoperative Quality of Life and Related Factors on the Development of Surgical Site Infections Following Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Prospective Case-Control Study with a Five-Year Follow-Up.

As surgical site infections (SSIs) after joint arthroplasty contribute to increased morbidity and mortality, they require further surgical intervention, prolonged hospitalisation, and antimicrobial treatment. The aim of our study is to examine the association between preoperative quality of life (QoL) and other predictive factors on the development of SSIs after primary arthroplasty. This is a prospective study that enrolled 56 patients with hip and knee primary osteoarthritis who underwent joint replacement. Data were collected from January to March 2017, including patient demographic characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory results, and perioperative clinical data. The patients' QoL was evaluated preoperatively by applying the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) and the hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS) for total knee replacement (TKR) and total hip replacement (THR), respectively. A 5-year follow-up was conducted to assess the clinical status of the patients. 66.1% of patients underwent TKR, with 4.9 ± 1.2 days of hospitalisation, 16% of them required autologous blood transfusion, while 33.9% of patients were treated with THR, with 5.7 ± 1 days hospitalisation and 36.8 of them required this type of transfusion. 16 patients were diagnosed with SSIs, with the older of them (>65 years old) presenting lower probability (odds ratio: 0.13, 95% CI: 0.03-0.62) requiring treatment with additional antibiotics, while revision surgery was performed in 3 of these cases, following periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Overall preoperative QoL was not statistically associated with SSIs, but low QoL scores were associated with higher rates of SSIs and increased levels of postoperative pain (p = 0.009 < 0.05). The duration of each operation (>90 min), the length of hospitalisation (>4 days), and the presence of comorbidities including hypothyroidism and recurrent urinary tract infections were associated with a high risk for SSIs following arthroplasties. On the contrary, this study revealed no association between other comorbidities, including heart coronary disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus, with close monitoring of plasma glucose and SSIs. Moreover, the younger the patients, the more likely they were to require treatment with antibiotics. Overall, high QoL index scores were mainly accompanied by low rates of postoperative SSIs and pain.

Dermatology Quality of Life Index scores in Bangladeshi patients with atopic eczema and their families in East London.

Atopic eczema (AE) is a chronic relapsing, pruritic disease that greatly affects the child and family's quality of life (QoL). It is usually common and severe among children of Bangladeshi ethnicity. This is a cross-sectional quantitative study in patients with AE of Bangladeshi origin, which aims to analyse different components of the family, children and adult quality-of-life indices and their relationship to patient age, sex, eczema severity and distribution, other allergic associations, parental education and socioeconomic level. Children and young adults of Bangladeshi origin aged 0-30 years, clinically diagnosed with AE were recruited as part of the Tower Hamlets Eczema Assessment project, a clinical phenotyping study of AE in the Bangladeshi population living in East London. Questionnaires completed by children/parents included the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI), Infant's Dermatology Quality of Life (IDQOL) and the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). Young adults completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). The disease severity was assessed objectively using the Eczema Area Severity Index (EASI). Patients and parents who did not read or speak English were aided by Bengali/Sylheti-speaking research assistants. Overall, 460 Bangladeshi children and 98 adults with AE were recruited. Burden of care, extra housework and emotional distress were the highest affected domains in parental QoL, while itching and sleep were the highest for children. Significant factors influencing FDLQI score were EASI [marginal effect (ME) 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00-1.03; P = 0.004], age (ME 0.98, 95% CI 0.97-0.99; P = 0.004), extensor eczema distribution (ME 1.25, 95% CI 1.03-1.52; P = 0.023), parental English fluency (ME 1.29, 95% CI 1.10-1.52; P = 0.002) and atopic comorbidities (ME 1.10, 95% CI 1.04-1.17; P = 0.001). Parental socioeconomic class was a nonsignificant factor. IDQOL/CDLQI was influenced significantly by the child's age (ME 0.99, 95% CI 0.97-1.00, P = 0.023), 'nonclear' eczema distribution clusters especially the 'severe extensive' cluster (ME 1.46, 95% CI 1.15-1.84; P = 0.002) and nonsignificantly by EASI and parental English literacy and socioeconomic levels. DLQI was affected significantly by nonclear eczema distribution groups especially 'severe extensive' (ME 2.49, 95% 1.76-3.53; P < 0.001) and nonsignificantly by patient age, and female sex. AE is a chronic disease where many external factors other than disease severity affect QoL of patients and their families, -especially in under-represented minority groups who face different linguistic and cultural barriers.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy improves the Quality of Life among Obstructive Sleep Apnea individuals in Pakistani Population

Background: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy is the most recommended treatment for OSA patients. Aim: To investigate a possible correlation between the Quality of life in obstructive sleep apnea patient’s pre and post-adhering to continuous positive airway pressure therapy for six months and compare them with the non-exposed group. Methods: This cohort study enrolled a sample of 180 participants, of which 90 were exposed to CPAP and 90 were not exposed by non-random purposive sampling from the Sleep Lab where obstructive Sleep apnea was diagnosed through Polysomnography. In the clinic, demographic data including gender, age, height, weight, body mass index, ESS, and Calgary Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index were recorded in pre-CPAP therapy questionnaires and repeated after 6 months. Results: After six months of effective continuous positive airway pressure therapy, there was a remarkable increase in all individuals' all-around quality of life as measured by the total Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index score. Total SAQLI score before treatment was 3.04±0.2 and after treatment was 5.3±0.5 p &lt; 0.01; Daily Functioning, 3.3±0.4 and 5.3±0.6; Social Interaction, 2.9±0.4 and 5.5±0.5; Emotional Functional, 2.9±0.5 and 5.1±0.5; Symptoms, 2.9±0.5 and 5.2±0.6 (p&lt;0.001). In contrast, the SAQLI scores in non-exposed individuals became worsened after six months. For domains A, B, C, and D, the mean difference was 1.96±0.74, 2.50±0.64, 2.21±0.70, and 2.34±0.80 respectively, has a statistically significant correlation (p=0.00). Conclusion: In conclusion, the current investigation yields some significant findings. Six months of continuous CPAP usage can help patients feel less sleepy, increase their SAQLI scores, and significantly lessen OSA-associated symptoms. Keywords: Quality of Life (QOL), Calgary Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index (SAQLI), Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), Continuous Positive Airway Pressures (CPAP), Daytime Sleepiness, Karachi.

Long-term outcome of patients with epiphrenic diverticula: A retrospective single-center analysis over 20 years

BackgroundEpiphrenic diverticula are extremely rare. Evidence-based treatment recommendations are scarce. The primary study outcome was to examine whether surgical treatment in patients with epiphrenic diverticula leads to improved quality of life by outweighing the perioperative risks compared with conservative treatment. MethodsAll patients with an epiphrenic diverticula at our institution between 2001 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed and followed-up using a specific questionnaire, including the Eating Assessment Tool, and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index quality-of-life scores. ResultsOf 51 patients with epiphrenic diverticula, 28 had surgery and 23 had conservative treatment. The most common symptom at presentation was dysphagia. Although 16 patients underwent open surgery, 12 had minimally invasive procedures. A prophylactic stent was applied intraoperatively in 6 patients. The morbidity rate in surgically treated patients was 50% (14/28), with a leakage in 43% (12/28; 33% for prophylactic stenting). Mortality was nil. At a median follow-up of 139 months, patients with surgery had better outcomes than those without (ie, less dysphagia [6/12 vs 11/12; P = .025]), a less likely pathologic Eating Assessment Tool score (4/12 vs 9/12; P = .041), and a nonsignificant better Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index score (122 vs 112; P = .929). The rate of recurrence/progression of symptoms was significantly higher for conservatively treated patients (11/18 vs 6/27 for any surgery; P = .008), as well as for patients with minimally invasive procedure (5/12 vs 1/15 for open surgery; P = .030). ConclusionDespite the high perioperative morbidity, surgical treatment of epiphrenic diverticula leads to an improved long-term quality of life and lower recurrence rates than conservative treatment.

Health related quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure

Objectives: Heart failure is one of the most common chronic cardiovascular diseases, which often triggers disability or death. Health-related Quality of life (HRQoL) is one of the most critical factors in deciding how to treat these patients. In this study, we want to figure out the effect of different factors on the quality of life in patients.&#x0D; Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 129 patients with heart failure referring to the center of Afshar Hospital in Yazd City, Iran 2017-2018. The standard (Shot Form survey) SF-36 questionnaire was used to measure different dimensions of quality of life.&#x0D; Results: In the present study, 77 men and 52 women with heart failure were included and the relationship between comorbidities, heart failure classification factors, age, sex, and history of hospitalization with quality of life was measured. The result revealed a significantly higher quality of life in patients under 50 years (P = 0.005) as well as in men (p&lt;0.001). And in the total population, the average quality of life appeared to be 45.46.&#x0D; Conclusions: Quality of life in patients with heart failure is related to gender and age, so in women over 50 years, the quality of life proved lower but not related to factors such as, hospitalization, type of failure and stage of the disease. Among diseases related to heart failure, only people with high blood pressure showed lower quality of life scores. The total quality of life index score among our subjects was reported to be moderate to low.

Efficiency of Perioperative Comfort Care and Its Impact on Postoperative Recovery of Breast Cancer Patients

Objective: Breast cancer is a common malignancy with high mortality, and proper care after breast cancer surgery contributes to better prognosis and recovery of patients. This study was designed to explore the efficiency of perioperative application of comfort care and its impact on the postoperative recovery of breast cancer patients. Methods: A total of 46 breast cancer patients treated in our hospital between April 2020 and June 2021 were recruited and assigned to a control group and an experimental group. The control group adopted conventional nursing, while the experimental group received comfort care. The nursing efficiency, nursing satisfaction, mental status scale in non-psychiatric settings (MSSNS) scores, self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) scores, self-rating depression scale (SDS) scores, quality of life index scores, incidence of adverse reactions, and postoperative recurrence were compared between the two groups. Results: Comfort care resulted in higher nursing efficiency and nursing satisfaction versus conventional nursing (P&lt;0.05). Patients receiving comfort care were associated with lower MSSNS scores, SAS scores, SDS scores, incidence of adverse reactions, and postoperative recurrence rates versus those given conventional care (P&lt;0.05). Patients in the experimental group had higher quality of life scores than those in the control group (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Comfort care substantially promotes the recovery of breast cancer patients and lowers the risk of relapse, with a manageable safety profile.

Voice Symptoms and Quality of Life in Individuals With Marfan Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study

Marfan Syndrome (MFS) is a connective tissue disorder that affects skeletal, ocular, pulmonary, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. Symptoms may lead to diminished quality of life (QoL) in individuals with MFS compared with healthy individuals. Currently, there is little evidence regarding the impact of MFS on voicing and QoL. This study examined perceptions of voicing difficulties and QoL among persons with MFS. A total of 356 participants with a self-reported diagnosis of MFS completed the Quality-of-Life Index (QLI) and voice handicap index-10 (VHI-10) and provided medication regime. Some degree of voice handicap was reported by a majority of participants. Analyses assessing correlations between responses to the VHI-10, QLI scores, and reported medications were conducted. Specific medications and responses on the VHI-10 were significantly associated with QLI scores. Multiple regression analyses revealed that a summed VHI-10 score was the strongest predictor of QLI satisfaction, QLI importance, and overall QLI. The findings of the current study suggest that individuals with MFS may experience self-perceived phonatory dysfunction which impact QoL. Specific classes of drugs may also be associated with reported voice handicap and QoL satisfaction in MFS. These findings have implications for physicians and clinicians who work with individuals with MFS.

Relevance of Cognition and Emotion for Patient-Reported Quality of Life After Stroke in Working Age: An Observational Cohort Study

BackgroundPatient-reported quality of life (QoL) may help to capture sequela of stroke more comprehensively. We aimed to investigate QoL in working age persons with ischemic stroke regarding impaired domains and identify factors associated with better QoL.MethodsWe invited persons with stroke aged 18–55 years to participate in this prospective observational study. We assessed QoL and self-rated health using the EuroQol 5 Dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D) during hospital stay (baseline) and at 3-months follow-up (FU). Additionally, the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), cognition (Montreal Cognitive assessment, MOCA), emotion (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and return to work were evaluated. We used hierarchical regression to identify predictors of QoL (self-rated health and QoL Index score) at FU.ResultsWe included 138 persons with stroke (mean age = 43.6 ± 10 years; 41% female; median admission NIHSS = 2), of whom 99 participated at FU. QoL Index and self-rated health were correlated with NIHSS, mRS, anxiety, and depression at both timepoints. Although 80% had favorable functional outcome at FU (mRS < 2), high proportions of these persons reported problems in the “Pain and/or Discomfort” (25.3%) and “Anxiety/Depression” (22.8%) dimensions. Only discharge NIHSS and baseline MOCA independently predicted self-rated health at FU. Female sex, higher discharge NIHSS, and higher baseline depression scores predicted worse QoL Index scores at FU.ConclusionsThree months post-stroke, working age persons with stroke frequently reported problems in dimensions not assessed by the routinely used mRS. Despite correlations between clinical scales and QoL, patient-reported outcomes and screening for cognition and emotion ensure a more comprehensive assessment of post-stroke consequences relevant for QoL.

Efficacy and safety of combination of nifuratel tablets with Baofukang suppository on treatment and recurrence of vaginitis in pregnancy

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; Purpose: To investigate the effect and safety of a combination of Nifuratel tablets and Baofukang suppository in the treatment and recurrence of vaginitis in pregnant patients.&#x0D; Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out on 100 in-patients admitted between February 2019 and April 2020. They were randomly assigned to control and study groups, with 50 in each group. The control group received Baofukang suppository treatment, whilst the study group was treated with Nifuratel tablets in addition to Baofukang suppository. The two groups were compared with regard to treatment effectiveness, incidence of adverse reactions, recurrence at 1, 2 and 3 months post-treatment; time taken for disappearance of clinical symptoms, and levels of inflammatory factors 1 week after treatment. Moreover, Mental Status Scale in Non-Psychiatric Settings (MSSNS) score, and Quality of Life Index (QLI) score were compared between the groups.&#x0D; Results: The study group out-performed the control group with respect to treatment effectiveness and QLI score (p &lt; 0.05). Patients in the study group had significantly lower incidence of adverse reactions, degree of recurrence at 1, 2 and 3 months post-treatment, time taken for disappearance of clinical symptoms, expression levels of inflammatory factors, and MSSNS score, when compared to those in control group (p &lt; 0.05).&#x0D; Conclusion: Combined use of Nifuratel tablets and Baofukang suppository in the treatment of pregnant patients with vaginitis leads to significant treatment efficacy and safety, and reduced recurrence and expression levels of inflammatory factors in patients.&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

The Clinical Value of High-Quality Nursing in Concurrent Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy after Glioma Surgery and Its Influence on the Stress Indicators Cor, ACTH, and CRP.

Objective The purpose of this study is to explore the clinical value of high-quality nursing in concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy after glioma surgery and its influence on the stress indicators such as cortisol (Cor), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Methods A total of 94 glioma patients diagnosed and treated in our hospital were randomly divided into a research group and a control group, with 47 cases in each group. Both groups of patients were given concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy. On this basis, patients in the control group were given basic care, while patients in the research group were given a combination of basic care and high-quality care. The nursing satisfaction and adverse reactions of the two groups were compared. The pain degree and the levels of stress indicators Cor, ACTH, and CRP at different time points were compared between the two groups. The sleep quality, bad mood, and quality of life before and after nursing were compared between the two groups. Results After nursing, the nursing satisfaction of the research group (95.74%) was higher than that of the control group (80.85%), and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (X2 = 11.678, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between patients in the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score and the levels of stress indicators Cor, ACTH, and CRP at the T1 time point between the two groups (P > 0.05). With the passage of time, the levels of Cor and ACTH of the two groups showed an upward trend. At T4, the increased levels of Cor and ACTH in the research group were less than those in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The VAS scores and CRP levels of the two groups showed an upward trend at T1 and T2 and a downward trend at T3 and T4. And, at T4, the decrease in CRP level of the research group was greater than that in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Before nursing, there was no statistically significant difference between two groups of patients in the time to fall asleep, sleep time, number of awakenings, SAS score, self-rating depression scale (SDS) score, quality of life index scores, and total scores (P > 0.05). After nursing, the time to fall asleep and the number of awakenings in the two groups of patients showed an upward trend, and the increase in the control group was higher (P < 0.05). The sleep time of the two groups showed a downward trend, and the degree of decline in the control group was higher (P < 0.05). After nursing, the SAS score and SDS score of the two groups of patients decreased (∗P < 0.05), and the decrease in the research group was more obvious (#P < 0.05). After nursing, the scores of all indicators of the quality of life and the total score of the two groups increased and the score of the research group increased more significantly (P < 0.05). After nursing, the control group had 5 cases of gastrointestinal reactions, 7 cases of bone marrow suppression, 6 cases of leukopenia, 6 cases of thrombocytopenia, and 10 cases of dizziness and nausea. In the research group, there were 1 case of gastrointestinal reaction, 2 cases of bone marrow suppression, 1 case of leukopenia, 1 case of thrombocytopenia, and 2 cases of dizziness and nausea. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion Glioma patients are given high-quality care during the course of concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy, which can reduce the pain and bad mood of the patient, reduce the stress response of the patient, and improve the quality of sleep and the quality of life of the patient, thereby improving nursing satisfaction and patients compliance, reducing adverse reactions, and having a good prognosis.