Quality Of Life Questionnaire Scores Research Articles

Evaluation of Child Oral Health Related Quality of Life in Bleeding Disorders

Abstract Background Oral bleeding is a common symptom for many inherited and acquired bleeding disorders in children. Understanding oral health and treatment needs of patients with bleeding disorders is necessary for patients' primary oral health prevention. Aim of the Work To evaluate the oral health problems in children with bleeding disorders both clinically and with child oral health related quality of life questionnaire score. To assess the effect of intervention (education and any necessary dental procedure) on the child oral health related quality of life questionnaire score. Patients and Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 70 patients aged from (2-18 years), males represent n = 47 (67.1%), females n = 23 (32.9%). Inherited bleeding disorders represent n = 37 (52.9%) and acquired bleeding disorders represent n = 33 (47.1%). ITP n = 33 (47.1%), hemophilia A n = 27 (38.6%), Von Willebrand’s disease n = 7 (10%) and Glanzmann n = 3 (4.3%) and all subjected to full history taking, examination, dental health estimation, oral health education, dental management and replacement therapy as needed at baseline and after 6 months of follow up from October 2021 to April 2022. ITP bleeding score (ISTH SSC bleeding assessment tool) used to assess severity of ITP patients. Child oral health related quality of life and child oral health impact profile questionnaires were filled by patients/parents at base line and after 6 months follow up. Results The current study revealed that (57.1%) of patients have dental caries. Regarding oral hygiene status, (10%) of patients have poor oral hygiene. Regarding gingival health, (50%) of patients have moderate gingivitis and (11.4%) have severe gingivitis. Oral symptomatology, Psychological domain for child, Psychological domain for family, Social domain for child and Total oral health score were significantly affected more with long duration of disease (p-value =0.0005, 0.0015, 0.010, 0.022 and 0.0045 respectively). There was statistically significant improvement in oral health related quality of life questionnaire score after 6 months of follow up with total oral health score (p-value = 0.000). Conclusion Oral health was significantly affected among patients with acquired and inherited bleeding disorders. Oral health education and management had significant impact on oral health related quality of life scores after 6 months of follow up.

Therapy-Related Satisfaction and Quality of Life for Japanese People with Diabetes Using Rapid-Acting Insulin Analogs: A Web-Based Survey.

People with diabetes require insulin to regulate blood glucose (BG); rapid-acting insulin analogs (RAIA) represent one approach for BG management. New fast-acting RAIA administered at the start of a meal suppress postprandial BG better than conventional RAIA. New RAIA are expected to confer higher treatment satisfaction and improved quality of life (QOL) than conventional RAIA. This cross-sectional, web-based survey in Japan (November 2022) included people with diabetes (type 1/2), aged ≥ 18years, registered in the Rakuten Insight Diabetes Panel, using new and/or conventional RAIA. RAIA-specific satisfaction was evaluated by questions on RAIA use (scores: 1 [not at all satisfied]; 7 [very satisfied]) and QOL by the Diabetes Therapy-Related (DTR)-QOL questionnaire (scores: 0-100, 100 = best) for the whole population (primary endpoint) and for new versus conventional RAIA users (secondary endpoint). Multiple regression models were used to compare new versus conventional RAIA users. The analysis population comprised 217 people with diabetes (new RAIA, n = 109; conventional RAIA, n = 108). Mean (standard deviation) RAIA-specific satisfaction scores ranged from 5.1 (1.2) to 5.4 (1.2); DTR-QOL total score was 51.6 (20.4). RAIA satisfaction scores were numerically higher for new versus conventional RAIA users; no difference in DTR-QOL total score was observed. DTR-QOL satisfaction with treatment domain score was significantly higher in new versus conventional RAIA users (least squares mean difference [standard error]: 7.3 [3.1]; 95% confidence interval: 1.2, 13.4; P = 0.0197). RAIA-specific satisfaction was higher among patients who discussed BG sufficiently with their doctor versus those who did not. New RAIA users have greater treatment satisfaction than conventional RAIA users. QOL was similar among new and conventional RAIA users, except for satisfaction with treatment, which was significantly higher among new RAIA users. Detailed explanations from the doctor to the person with diabetes about the relationship between new RAIA and BG status are essential. A graphical plain language summary is available with this article.

Abstract 3027: Home-based, High-pressure Intermittent Limb Compression Following Lower Extremity Revascularization In Patients With Severe Peripheral Artery Disease: A Pilot Trial

Objective: Many patients who undergo lower extremity revascularization (LER) for peripheral artery disease (PAD) continue to experience mobility impairment despite adequate revascularization. High-pressure intermittent limb compression (HPILC) has been shown to augment leg blood flow and improve walking endurance in symptomatic PAD patients. This pilot trial aimed to examine the feasibility of home-based HPILC for 2 hours daily over 3 consecutive months in patients who underwent LER for PAD. The primary outcome was the change in 6-minute walk distance from baseline to 3-month follow-up. Methods: Three months following LER, 9 participants were randomly assigned to either HPILC (n=5) or a sham (n=4) group. Participants were provided with a portable pneumatic air pump and inflatable cuffs that were wrapped around the feet, ankles, and calves (ArtAssist, ACI Medical). The inflation pressures were 120 mmHg and 30 mmHg in the HPILC and sham devices, respectively. A built-in timer, inaccessible to participants, provided one estimate of treatment compliance. Outcomes were assessed before and after the completion of the 3-month interventions. Results: Among the 9 randomized participants, one individual required reintervention and was withdrawn from the study. Adherence to treatment was 74% for HPILC and 92% for sham. As shown in Figure 1, the change in 6-minute walk distance from baseline tended to be higher in the HPILC group compared to the sham-treated group (HPILC: 35.2±38.7 m vs. Sham: -14.7±25 m, p=0.07). There were no group differences in the secondary outcomes, including the changes in the ankle-brachial index, the toe-brachial index, and the Vascular Quality of Life questionnaire scores. Conclusions: Home-based HPILC following LER for PAD is feasible, well-tolerated, and appears to improve walking performance. These preliminary findings indicate that HPILC may be a useful adjunct therapy to enhance lower extremity functioning in patients recovering from LER.

The Burden of Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis: Quality of Life of Patients and Their Families.

(1) Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common inflammatory skin conditions, thus having a significant impact on the quality of life (QoL) of patients and their families. We performed a survey to gather more data to help describe the burden of AD in Lithuania and to help expand the treatment plan to this important aspect of the disease. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving healthy and AD pediatric patients. The assessment instruments used were the Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), QoL, and original questionnaires (the original questionnaire was designed by the authors to determine the demographics, medical history, and treatment methods of the respondents). (3) Results: This study included 302 participants in total: 247 AD patients (51% boys) and 55 non-AD patients (51% boys). The mean age for AD patients was 6.8 ± 4.4. years, and this was 10.5 ± 3.1 years for the control patients. A significant difference was found between the QoL questionnaire scores and the Family Dermatology Life Quality Index (FDLQI) score for the atopic dermatitis group (QoL: 6.3 ± 5.6; FDLQI: 7.1 ± 6.9) and controls (QoL 0.5 ± 1.1; FDLQI 2.1 ± 5.9) (p = 0.000). The mean QoL questionnaire score for severe AD was 14.3 ± 6.2 (very large effect), that for moderate AD was 6.9 ± 4.4 (moderate effect), and that for mild AD was 4.4 ± 4.2 (small effect) (p = 0.000). (4) Conclusions: Our study revealed a moderate effect of AD on dermatology-related QoL in patients and their families. It has been shown that increased disease severity was associated with a greater impairment of QoL in both patients and patient's parents. The burden of AD in children and their parents is considerable and should be taken into account in the management of atopic dermatitis.

Exhaled breath analyses for bronchial thermoplasty in severe asthma patients

BackgroundBronchial thermoplasty (BT) is a bronchoscopic treatment for severe asthma. Although multiple trials have demonstrated clinical improvement after BT, optimal patient selection remains a challenge and the mechanism of action is incompletely understood.The aim of this study was to examine whether exhaled breath analysis can contribute to discriminate between BT-responders and non-responders at baseline and to explore pathophysiological insights of BT. MethodsExhaled breath was collected from patients at baseline and six months post-BT. Patients were defined as responders or non-responders based on a half point increase in asthma quality of life questionnaire scores. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) detection and analyses. Analytical workflow consisted of: 1) detection of VOCs that differentiate between responders and non-responders and those that differ between baseline and six months post-BT, 2) identification of VOCs of interest and 3) explore correlations between clinical biomarkers and VOCs. ResultsData was available from 14 patients. Nonanal, 2-ethylhexanol and 3-thujol showed a significant difference in intensity between responders and non-responders at baseline (p = 0.04, p = 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively). After BT, no difference was found in the compound intensity of these VOCs. A negative correlation was observed between nonanal and IgE and BALF eosinophils (r = −0.68, p < 0.01 and r = −0.61, p = 0.02 respectively) and 3-thujol with BALF neutrophils (r = −0.54, p = 0.04). ConclusionsThis explorative study identified discriminative VOCs in exhaled breath between BT responders and non-responders at baseline. Additionally, correlations were found between VOC's and inflammatory BALF cells. Once validated, these findings encourage research in breath analysis as a non-invasive easy to apply technique for identifying airway inflammatory profiles and eligibility for BT or immunotherapies in severe asthma.

Contribution of caregiver and child anxiety and depressive symptoms to child asthma-related quality of life

BackgroundDepression and anxiety negatively affect asthma-related quality of life (QoL). Yet, little is known regarding mood and asthma-related factors that best uniquely explain asthma-related QoL in children. ObjectiveThis cross-sectional study evaluated the unique variance explained by caregiver and child depressive and anxiety symptom severity in child asthma-related QoL, apart from that explained by demographics and asthma control. MethodsChildren aged 7 to 17 years with asthma (n = 205) and their caregivers with major depressive disorder were included. A 3-stage hierarchical linear regression analysis was conducted with the Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire total scores considered as the outcome. Predictors included demographic characteristics (stage 1); asthma control assessed by the Asthma Control Test (stage 2); and caregiver depression and anxiety (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and the Spielberger State/Trait Anxiety Scale) and child depression and anxiety (Children's Depression Inventory and the Screen for Child Anxiety-Related Disorders) (stage 3). ResultsDemographic characteristics accounted for only 5.5% of the Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire scores. Asthma control significantly increased variance explained in QoL to 32.6%, whereas caregiver and child depression and anxiety symptoms significantly increased variance explained to 42.6%. Child anxiety was found to uniquely explain the largest proportion of variance in QoL (rs2 = 0.584). ConclusionAfter adjusting variance in QoL for demographic characteristics and asthma control, caregiver and child depression and anxiety measures significantly increased the proportion of variance explained in a child's asthma-related QoL. In addition to better asthma control, child and caregiver depression and anxiety should be addressed to increase child asthma-related QoL. Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02809677.

Combined Korean medicine therapies in children with allergic rhinitis: A prospective, multicenter, observational registry study at primary-care network clinics

IntroductionAllergic rhinitis (AR) causes symptoms such as hyper-rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and pain by triggering inflammation in the nasal mucosa and an immune response caused by antigen-specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE). This prospective multicenter observational study aimed to evaluate the symptoms change and safety of combined Korean medicine (KM) therapy in patients with AR. MethodsThis study was conducted in HAMSOA Korean Medicine Clinics, a network specializing in treating pediatric patients in Korea, and 15 centers participated. The patients were divided into three groups (mild, moderate, and severe) according to their baseline total nasal symptom score. The patients were treated with herbal medicine, acupuncture, cupping therapy, and moxibustion therapy. ResultsThe study involved 72 subjects aged 6.47 ± 2.37 years. The average Numeric Rating Scale for allergic rhinitis symptoms at the baseline and final follow-up were 4.39 ± 2.14 to 3.47 ± 2.51, respectively, indicating a significant improvement over an average of 4 weeks. The Pediatric Allergic Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire scores at the final screening improved in all three groups. The mean difference was -10.44, with a 95 % confidence interval of -15.35 to -5.54 (p < 0.01.). Furthermore, no adverse events were reported in any patient in this study. ConclusionThe results provide preliminary evidence suggesting that KM treatment may be a safe and effective option for reducing symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis in children. Additional prospective studies are required to confirm the results of the present study.

Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Impact on Patients' Perceived Quality of Life: A Longitudinal Study.

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the quality of life of adult patients with onco-hematological disease treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation up to two years post-transplantation. A quantitative, observational, longitudinal, and analytical study was conducted with 121 participants diagnosed with onco-hematological cancer who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation between October 2017 and September 2019, with a 2-year post-transplantation follow-up, of whom only 39 completed the study. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Bone Marrow Transplantation (FACT-BMT) questionnaire and its subscales, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-BMT) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Trial Outcome Index (FACT-TOI), developed by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) and validated for Spain, were used to assess quality of life. The average age for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was 54 years, with a majority of male participants. The evaluation of quality of life showed a decrease at the time of hospital discharge, followed by a progressive improvement up to one year after the transplantation. There was a significant difference in the quality of life questionnaire scores between both sexes during all stages of the research, with higher scores in male participants. The length of hospital stay significantly affected patients' physical and functional well-being, and marital status was related to differences in the perception of quality of life. Despite the initial decrease in quality of life for patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, levels of quality of life similar to baseline are regained one year after the transplantation. Sociodemographic variables are related to how these patients perceive their quality of life. However, further studies with a larger sample size are needed for more precise results.

Improving Liver Cancer Care: The Effects of Perma-Based Psychological and Nutritional Interventions

This study aimed to explore the effect of combined psychological and nutritional interventions on anxiety, depression, nutritional status, and quality of life among liver cancer patients implanted with iodine-125 seeds under the PERMA model. A total of 82 liver cancer patients admitted to our hospital were randomly allocated into two groups: a control group receiving routine care and an observation group receiving the aforementioned combined intervention under the PERMA model. The study duration spanned three months, after which the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire scores were compared between the groups. Post-intervention findings revealed that the observation group exhibited significantly higher scores in hospital anxiety and depression assessments compared to the control group. Additionally, the observation group demonstrated a significantly higher proportion of patients with good nutritional status, as per the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form. Furthermore, improvements were observed across all dimensions of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire, with the observation group showing significantly higher scores in comparison to the control group. These findings highlight the substantial value of integrating psychological intervention with nutritional support within the PERMA model as a means to enhance clinical nursing practices.

Real-World Safety and Effectiveness of Benralizumab in Japanese Patients with Severe Asthma: A Multicenter Prospective Observational Study.

This study aimed to demonstrate whether benralizumab maintained the safety and effectiveness profiles established in randomized controlled trials among all patients with severe uncontrolled asthma initially prescribed benralizumab in the real-world setting in Japan. This was a prospective, observational, multicenter post-marketing study (ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT03588546). The safety and tolerability of benralizumab over 1 year were assessed by the incidence of adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and serious ADRs. Patient background characteristics indicating a more frequent onset of ADRs with benralizumab were explored. The main effectiveness assessment was the change in Asthma Control Questionnaire-5 (ACQ-5) score from baseline. Patients with baseline ACQ-5 scores ≥1.5 were defined as having severe uncontrolled asthma. In total, 632 patients were evaluated for safety and 274 for effectiveness; 139 patients were included in the severe uncontrolled asthma subgroup. ADRs were reported in 12.7% and serious AEs in 13.0% of patients. Serious infections occurred in 3.8%, serious hypersensitivity in 0.3%, and malignancy in 0.3% of patients. No helminthic infections occurred. In the effectiveness population, benralizumab improved the mean (standard deviation [95% confidence interval]) ACQ-5 score by -1.16 (1.40 [-1.36, -0.96]) from baseline; forced expiratory volume in 1 second by 0.151 (0.440 [0.09, 0.21]) L; and Mini-Asthma Quality of Life questionnaire score by 1.16 (1.29 [0.94, 1.38]) at the last observation. The annual asthma exacerbation rate was 0.42. A greater ACQ-5 score improvement was observed among patients with eosinophilic asthma characteristics. No new safety concerns were raised, and patients experienced benefits consistent with previous studies of benralizumab, thus supporting the use of benralizumab for the add-on maintenance treatment of patients with eosinophilic severe uncontrolled asthma.

Safety and efficacy of bronchial thermoplasty in refractory asthma with severe obstructive respiratory dysfunction.

Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) is a recently developed non-pharmacological therapy for refractory bronchial asthma. Although increasing evidence has suggested that BT is effective for various phenotypes of severe asthma, its safety and efficacy in patients with severe irreversible impaired lung function are unclear. To assess the efficacy and safety of BT in patients with refractory asthma, including patients with a severely impaired forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1). This was a single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 15 patients with refractory asthma (Global Initiative for Asthma step 4 or 5), including patients with severely impaired airflow limitation (% predicted pre-bronchodilator FEV1 <60%), who had undergone BT between June 2016 and January 2022. We analyzed the efficacy (change in asthma symptoms, exacerbation rate, pulmonary function, asthma medication, and serum inflammatory chemokine/cytokines before and after BT) and complications in all patients. We compared these data between patients with severe obstructive lung dysfunction [group 1(G1)] and patients with FEV1 ⩾ 60% [group 2 (G2)]. Six patients were in G1 and nine were in G2. Clinical characteristics, T2 inflammation, and concurrent treatment were equivalent in both groups. BT significantly improved asthma-related symptoms (measured using the Asthma Control Test and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire scores) in both groups. FEV1 was significantly improved in G1 but not in G2. Four patients in G2, but none in G1, experienced asthma exacerbation requiring additional systemic corticosteroids (including two requiring prolonged hospitalization) after BT. Long-term responders (patients who reduced systemic or inhaled corticosteroid without newly adding biologics in a follow-up > 2 years) of BT were identified in G1 and G2 (n = 2, 33.3% and n = 4, 44.4%, respectively). BT in patients with refractory asthma and severe airflow limitation is equally safe and efficacious as that in patients with moderate airflow limitation.

Sexual quality of life between healthy women and women with gynecological cancer: Results of a hospital-based case-control study in Türkiye.

Gynecological cancers among women were both chronic and vitally health problems. The increasing prevalence of women with surviving gynecological cancers and the receiving treatments of cancer negatively affected the sexual quality of life. The study was conducted to determine the sexual quality of life of healthy women and women with gynecological cancer and to determine the predictors of sexual quality of life in women with gynecological cancer. The research is a hospital-based case-control study was conducted. The study was carried out with 65 patients with histologically confirmed gynecological cancer were compared with 75 controls, who were admitted to the different departments of the same hospital in the Izmir, in western Türkiye. The Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire score (SQOL) of cases was 60.12 ± 9.01 and controls was 78.92 ± 7.08. SQOL scores of cases were significantly lower than controls (p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis results showed that age (B = -0.295, p = 0.072), working (B = 4.981, p = 0.016), smoking (B = -4.590, p = 0.035), diagnosed with cervical cancer (B = -4.214, p = 0.045), and receiving chemotherapy (B = -4.722, p = 0.028) were associated with sexual quality of life in women with gynecological cancer (p < 0.05, R2 : 0.40). Women with gynecological cancer had lower quality of sex life compared with healthy women. Gynecological cancers negatively affect women's sexual quality of life. Health professionals (especially nurses) should be aware of the potential problems that women with gynecological cancer may experience with their sexual lives. They should develop coping strategies and offer solutions for the problems experienced by women with gynecological cancer.

Abstract 13703: Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy in “Cold and Dry” Patients

Introduction: Patients who suffer from end-stage HF and have low PCWP are referred to as “cold and dry” patients and are an understudied minority, where the benefit derived from LVAD therapy is unclear. We therefore conducted a retrospective analysis to evaluate functional outcomes and quality of life after LVAD in patients with low versus high PCWP on pre-LVAD hemodynamics. Methods: Adults receiving LVADs between 2006 and 2017 were identified from the INTERMACS database. Outcomes include assessment of functional status with 6-minute walk test (6MWT) distance and quality of life measures, with KCCQ and EuroQol questionnaire scores pre- and post-LVAD, stratified by pre-LVAD PCWP. Median follow up was 364±41 days. Results: Study sample comprised 10310 patients who received LVAD from 2006 to 2017. Mean age was 57 ± 13, 8113 (79%) were male, and the mean PCWP prior to LVAD implantation was 25 ± 9.19 mmHg. The patients were separated into a high (PCWP &gt;15 mmHg) and a low (PCWP&lt;15 mmHg) group based on pre-LVAD hemodynamics. For patients with PCWP &lt;15 mmHg, mean age was 58.1±12.4, 1191 (74%) were males, LVEDD was 6.7±1 cm, and mean PCWP was 11±3.2 mmHg (Table 1). When compared to patients with high PWCP, those with a PCWP &lt;15 mmHg showed less improvement in quality of life questionnaire scores, including EuroQol (+0.11 vs +0.17, p=0.001) and KCCQ (+26 vs +31, p=0.03), and functional capacity with 6MWT distance (+194 feet vs +340 feet, p=0.02) after LVAD (Figure 1). Conclusions: In patients with end-stage HF and low PCWP, LVADs are associated with less improvement in functional capacity and quality of life when compared to patients with high PCWP.

Application of Omalizumab Combined with Enteral Nutrition in Treating Severe Allergic Asthma

To investigate the influence of omalizumab combined with enteral nutrition in treating severe allergic asthma, 102 patients in our hospital from May 2020 to May 2023 were retrospectively included, followed by dividing into a control group and a study group. The control group received only budesonide formoterol, and the study group accepted budesonide formoterol, omazumab, and an oral enteral hypernutrient polymer. After therapy, the asthma control test score, mini-asthma quality of life questionnaire score, hemoglobin level, serum total protein level, serum total immunoglobulin E level, forced expiratory volume in one second, forced expiratory volume in one second predicted, CD3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8+ in the study group presented higher than the control group, while CD8+, fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide level, and percentage of eosinophils in blood were lower. No difference was observed in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P = 0.34). To sum up, enteral nutrition combined with omalizumab can effectively inhibit airway inflammation, improve lung function, and promote the quality of life of severe allergic asthma patients with high safety, which opens a new way of biologically targeting therapy for asthma.

Benralizumab in severe eosinophilic asthma in real life: confirmed effectiveness and contrasted effect on sputum eosinophilia versus exhaled nitric oxide fraction - PROMISE.

Randomised controlled trials have shown that benralizumab, an anti-interleukin-5 receptor monoclonal antibody, reduces exacerbations and oral corticosteroid dose and improves asthma control and lung function in severe eosinophilic asthma. The aim of this study was to confirm results of randomised controlled trials in real life in a population of 73 patients with severe eosinophilic asthma treated with benralizumab for at least 12 months. Patients underwent careful monitoring of asthma exacerbations, exhaled nitric oxide fraction, lung function, asthma control and quality of life questionnaire responses and sputum induction, and gave a blood sample at baseline, after 6 months and then every year. We found significant reductions in exacerbations (by 92%, p<0.0001) and oral corticosteroid dose (by 83%, p<0.001) after 6 months that were maintained over time, with 78% of patients able to stop oral corticosteroid therapy. Patients improved their Asthma Control Test (ACT) score (from 11.7±5.1 to 16.9±5.35, p<0.0001), Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score (from 2.88±1.26 to 1.77±1.32, p<0.0001) and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire score (+1.04, p<0.0001) at 6 months and this was maintained during follow-up. Only 35% and 43% of patients reached asthma control according to an ACT score ≥20 and ACQ score <1.5, respectively. We observed stable post-bronchodilation lung function over time and a significant reduction in sputum eosinophil count, with 85% of patients exhibiting sputum eosinophil counts <3% after 6 months (p<0.01) with no effect on exhaled nitric oxide fraction. In our real-life study, we confirm the results published in randomised controlled trials showing a sharp reduction in exacerbations and oral corticosteroid therapy, an improvement in asthma control and quality of life, and a dramatic reduction in sputum eosinophil count.

Combination of Minimally Invasive Methods for the Treatment of Varicose Veins.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combination of minimally invasive methods for the treatment of incompetent great saphenous vein and perforating veins. Between December 2019 and October 2020, F-care radiofrequency ablation combined with ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy and residual perforator ligation and concomitant microphlebectomy were adopted for all eligible patients. The clinical symptoms scores, complications, and quality of life were recorded. 49 patients (64 limbs) with a mean age of 63.29 ± 10.14years, and 60.9%4 were male. The 1-year truncal closure rate was 63/64 (98.4%).1 A significant improvement in the Venous Disability Score, the Venous Segmental Disease Score, the Venous Clinical Severity Score and Chronic Venous Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire Score, at 12months after the combination of minimally invasive treatment, were observed in the study. One patient developed intermuscular vein thrombosis that was successfully managed with rivaroxaban. The combination of minimally invasive methods is a safe and effective method for the treatment of lower extremity varicose veins. Further large-scale, prospective, multi-center studies are needed to further verify the findings of this study.

Effectiveness and safety of lubiprostone after switching from stimulant laxatives in elderly patients with chronic constipation.

Stimulant laxatives may cause electrolyte abnormalities, dehydration, and abdominal pain; their long-term use can lead to tolerance and subsequent refractory constipation. We investigated the effectiveness, safety, and quality of life after switching from stimulant laxatives to lubiprostone in elderly patients with chronic constipation (CC). This multicenter, interventional, open-label, single-arm, before-and-after comparison study enrolled 99 Japanese patients aged 65-90 years with CC who took stimulant laxatives for ≥2 weeks prior to switching to lubiprostone monotherapy. The mean ± SD spontaneous defecations at Week 1 of 7.8 ± 6.2 times/week was not significantly different from that at baseline (8.3 ± 4.7). Spontaneous defecations were significantly reduced at Weeks 2 (-1.5 ± 4.0, P < 0.001) and 4 (-1.5 ± 3.7, P < 0.001). The Bristol Stool Form Scale score did not change from baseline (4.7 ± 0.9) at Weeks 1 (4.5 ± 1.3) or 4 (4.3 ± 1.3), but it did at Week 2 (4.3 ± 1.5, P < 0.05). The Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire score increased (0.36 ± 0.07, P < 0.001) after 28 days. Nausea was the only symptom that worsened from baseline and was the most frequently reported adverse drug reaction (15.2%). Switching to lubiprostone monotherapy for CC was not associated with significant concerns in short-term spontaneous defecation frequency and safety, but it might affect the efficacy and patient quality of life over 2 weeks. Careful treatment strategies facilitating gradual switching to lubiprostone monotherapy may be needed in patients using stimulant laxatives.

Clinical and prognostic characteristics of REM sleep related obstructive sleep apnea in children

Objective: To analyze the clinical and prognostic characteristics of rapid eye movement sleep related obstructive sleep apnea (REM-OSA) in children. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 62 children aged from 2 to 14 years who were admitted to Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University from December 2017 to April 2021, diagnosed with moderate to severe OSA by polysomnography monitoring (PSG), underwent adenoid tonsillectomy, and completed follow-up 6 months after surgery. There were 45 males (72.6%) and 17 females (27.4%). The age range was 2.0-12.3 years. All children completed the clinical data collection, PSG, OSA-18 quality of life questionnaire and Children's Sleep questionnaire-sleep related breathing disorder subscale at baseline. PSG and OSA-18 quality of life questionnaire were reexamined at 6 months after surgery. Children were divided into REM-OSA group (33 cases) and non-REM-OSA group (29 cases) according to whether the obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (OAHI) during rapid eye movement sleep and OAHI during non-rapid eye movement sleep ratio was≥2. Baseline PSG parameters and scale scores, 6-month postoperative cure rate and OSA-18 quality of life questionnaire scores of the 2 groups were compared, and statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 23.0 software. Results: There were no significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, neck circumference/height ratio, overweight or obesity, history of disease, tonsil and adenoid size between the two groups (all P>0.05). Compared with non-REM-OSA group, REM-OSA group had higher oxygen desaturation index and proportion of SpO2<90% of total sleep time (Z=-2.723, P=0.006;Z=-3.414; P=0.001 respectively), and lower SpO2 nadir (Z=-3.957, P<0.001). The proportion of obstructive apnea in total respiratory events (related to anatomical factors) in REM-OSA group was higher than that in non-REM-OSA group (t=2.840, P=0.006). However, the proportion of central apnea in total respiratory events and arousal index (related to functional factors) in REM-OSA group was lower than that in non-REM-OSA group (t=-2.597, P=0.012;Z=-2.956, P=0.003), and there were no significant differences in other PSG parameters between the two groups (all P>0.05). There was an interaction effect between the two groups in the change trend of OSA cure rate at 6 months after surgery under different baseline OAHI (χ2=4.282, P=0.039). Conclusions: The weight of anatomic factors and functional factors in the etiology of children with REM-OSA and non-REM OSA was different, and the postoperative OSA cure rate of children with different baseline OAHI changed in reverse trend.

Predictors of Swallowing-Related Quality of Life in United States Veterans with Dysphagia.

While both dysphagia and poor health-related quality of life frequently occur in United States (US) Veterans, swallowing-related quality of life in this population has not been systematically examined. This retrospective clinical observation study aimed to determine the independent predictors of swallowing-related quality of life for a sample of US Veterans. We examined the following variables in a multivariate analysis to determine the predictors of Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire scores: demographic information, Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP) scores, Penetration-Aspiration Scale scores, anterior lingual pressures, and Functional Oral Intake Scale scores. MBSImP oral phase score was the only variable that reached statistical significance (p ≤ 0.01), demonstrating that a more severe physiologic impairment in the oral phase of swallowing was independently predictive of worse swallowing-related quality of life. These findings highlight the need for clinicians to consider how impairments in swallowing physiology may impact the quality of life more broadly for patients with dysphagia.

The effect of cannabidiol on seizure features and quality of life in drug-resistant frontal lobe epilepsy patients: a triple-blind controlled trial.

Treatment-resistant epileptic seizures are associated with reduced quality of life (QoL). As polypharmacy with routine antiseizure medications has many side effects, novel add-on treatments are necessary. Recent research showed the efficacy of add-on therapy by cannabidiol (CBD) on refractory epilepsy. We attempted to extend data on the efficacy and safety profile of CBD in patients with frontal lobe treatment-resistant epilepsy. A total of 27 patients were recruited into two CBD (n = 12) and placebo (n = 15) groups. The CBD group received a highly purified liposomal preparation of the drug in addition to routine antiseizure medications. The placebo group only received antiseizure medications. This experiment followed a triple-blinding protocol. Outcome measures were seizure frequency, the Chalfont seizure severity scale (CSSS), and the quality of life questionnaire score (QOLIE-31) assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. At 4 weeks, results indicated that a higher fraction of patients in the CBD group (66.67%) showed improvement in seizure, compared to the placebo group (20.00%). Before-after comparison revealed that CBD, unlike routine ADEs, was effective in reducing the occurrence of seizures at the study's final timepoint [mean difference 45.58, 95% CI (8.987 to 82.18), p = 0.009]. Seizure severity was not affected by study groups or time intervals (repeated-measures ANOVA p > 0.05). Post-hoc tests found that the QoLI-31 score was improved at 8 weeks compared to baseline [mean diff. -5.031, 95% CI (-9.729 to -0.3328), p = 0.032]. The difference in cases who experienced enhanced QoL was meaningful between the CBD and placebo groups at 8 weeks [RR: 2.160, 95% CI (1.148 to 4.741), p = 0.018] but not at 4 weeks (p = 0.653). A positive finding for QoL improvement was associated with a positive finding for seizure frequency reduction [r = 0.638, 95% CI (0.296 to 0.835), p = 0.001]. Interestingly, limiting the correlation analysis to cases receiving CBD indicated that QoL improvement was not linked with seizure parameters such as severity and frequency (p > 0.05). The present study suggests the benefit of a purified and highly efficient preparation of CBD for seizure frequency reduction and improvement of QoL in refractory frontal lobe epilepsy. Further study with longer follow-ups and larger sample size is advised. https://www.irct.ir/trial/56790, identifier: IRCT20210608051515N1.