Quality Of Life Scores Research Articles

The effect of interferon beta on quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis study

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common progressive neurological disorders affecting young adults. This study aimed to perform a meta-analysis on the effect of interferon beta (IFN-β) on the quality of life (QOL) of patients with MS. Methods: Using valid keywords and searching through databases like Medlib, ScienceDirect, PubMed, etc., 10 articles published between 1999 and 2020 were collected. The inclusion criteria were developed based on clinical guidelines, focusing on studies involving adults with MS treated with IFN-β, with outcomes measuring QOL. The exclusion criteria included studies not in English, those involving pediatric populations, or those lacking a control group. In the reviewed studies, 14 scales of QOL were measured at the beginning and the end of treatment with IFN-β. Stata software. Publication bias was not significant. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the Q test and the I2 index. In heterogeneous studies, subgroup analysis and meta-regression were used for meta-analysis. The random-effect model was used for analyses with I2 of more than 50%. Results: A total number of 1320 people with an average age of 32.40 ± 8.77 years were included in this study. On average, there was a slight decline in energy and satisfaction with sexual function scales (SSF), while a slight improvement was seen in the other 12 scales, following the treatment with IFN-β. However, no significant changes were observed in any of the QOL scales following treatment, except for health distress (HD) (P < 0.001), role limitation due to physical problems (RLPP) (P < 0.001), and role limitation due to emotional problems (RLEP) (P = 0.037), all of which showed a slight but natable improvement. The physical and mental components, showed significant increases of 0.189 [95% Confidence interval (CI): 0.083, 0.295, I2 = 0%] and 0.221 (95% CI 0.119, 0.324, I2 = 0%) in the scores after using IFN-β, respectively. Conclusion: This study's results showed that treatment with IFN-β does not negatively affect the QOL of patients with MS. Moreover, this treatment can slightly improve most QOL scales associated with the disability observed in MS.

Effect of central sensitization on postoperative cognitive dysfunction in total knee arthroplasty patients: a retrospective study

BackgroundPostoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), impacting recovery and quality of life. This study aims to investigate central sensitization (CS) as an independent risk factor for POCD to improve preoperative screening and postoperative interventions.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 142 TKA patients from January 2020 to May 2024 across three hospitals. Data were collected at six time points: preoperatively (T0), intraoperatively (T1), and postoperatively on days 1 (T2), 3 (T3), 7 (T4), and 30 (T5). Patients were classified into CS (CSI ≥ 40) and non-CS (CSI < 40) groups according to Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) score. Cognitive function and POCD incidence were assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and knee recovery with the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Logistic regression was used to identified risk factors for POCD.ResultsThe overall incidence of POCD at T5 was 19.72%, with a significantly higher rate in CS group (30.91%) compared to non-CS group (12.64%) (p = 0.008). MMSE scores declined significantly in both groups at T2 and T3 compared to T0 (p < 0.05), with CS group showing consistently lower scores than non-CS group at T2-T5 (p < 0.05). KOOS scores revealed that CS group had worse pain and quality of life scores at T0, T4, and T5 compared with non-CS group (p < 0.05). Logistic regression revealed that CS, cerebrovascular disease, intraoperative hemorrhage, and preoperative MMSE were associated with the risk of POCD (p < 0.05).ConclusionCS is a significant risk factor for POCD following TKA, adversely affecting recovery in terms of pain and quality of life. Prospective studies are warranted to validate findings and develop targeted interventions.

Illness Perceptions, knowledge, and Quality of Life in Lichen Planopilaris patients

Introduction Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is an inflammatory disease, leading to permanent hair loss, which significantly affects the psychosocial and self-image of patients with this condition; however, the impact of this condition on patients’ quality of life (QoL), their perception of disease, and their knowledge have rarely been studied. This study aimed to investigate patients' knowledge and perspective on their disease and its association with their QoL and the extent of skin involvement. Methods Patients with confirmed LPP from 2022 to 2023 completed a questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, the Illness Perception Questionnaire, disease and therapy knowledge, and the Dermatology Life Quality Index. Additionally, a dermatologist examined the Lichen Planopilaris Activity Index (LPPAI). Results This study enrolled 42 LPP patients, with 81% being female and 73.8% under 60 years old. The LPPAI did not correlate with knowledge (r =0.04, p = 0.783), illness perception (r = 0.097, p = 0.543), or QoL scores (r = 0.119, p = 0.452). However, QoL was positively linked to knowledge (r = 0.382, p = 0.013) and illness perception scores (r = 0.398, p = 0.009). Patients with a longer disease duration had higher knowledge scores (r = 0.400, p = 0.009). Conclusion Dermatologists should educate patients about their condition and understand their perceptions to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Near-Death Quality of Life in Cancer Patients on Home Parenteral Nutrition

Background: The impact of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) on the quality of life (QoL) of cancer patients has been previously investigated. However, scarce data are available regarding near-death QoL in patients with cancer receiving HPN. This study aims to investigate the changes of QoL in these patients in the last two months before death. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a previous, prospective, longitudinal, observational study. QoL was assessed using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Results: Eighty-four adult cancer patients who died on HPN and had filled out the questionnaire between 31 and 60 days (M2) and within 30 days prior (M1) to death were included in this analysis. The questionnaires filled out at M2 and M1 were compared with those filled out by the same patients at HPN start (T0). At M2, there was a significant improvement in both the global QoL and symptoms scales (p < 0.001 and p < 0.033, respectively), while at M1, a significant improvement in the global QoL scale persisted (p < 0.035) compared with T0. Conclusions: Our study first reports that HPN, if started early and according to European guidelines, is associated with an improvement in the QoL of patients with cancer even in the last two months before death.

Achieving Depth of Response in Skin Clearance and Itch Relief With Lebrikizumab is Associated With Minimal Impact of Atopic Dermatitis on Quality of Life

In Phase 3, monotherapy trials, ADvocate1 (NCT04146363) and ADvocate2 (NCT04178967), Week 16-responders treated with lebrikizumab (LEB) every 2 weeks (Q2W) and every 4 weeks (Q4W) demonstrated extended maintenance of deep response in skin clearance and itch improvement. In this post hoc analysis of ADvocate1/-2, among LEB responders (defined by achieving Investigator’s Global Assessment [IGA] 0 or 1 with ≥2-point improvement or ≥75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index [EASI75], and not receiving rescue medication, including topicals, at Week 16), we evaluated quality of life (QOL) improvements for patients who achieved a deep response to LEB at Week 52, defined as: IGA score 0 (clear skin); ≥90% or 100% reduction in EASI (EASI90; EASI100); or Pruritus Numeric Rating Scale (PNRS; 0-10, none to worst itch imaginable) scores 0 or 1 (PNRS01) at Week 52. QOL was assessed by the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), scored 0–30, with higher scores indicating a worse effect of AD on QOL (scores ≤5: no/minimal effect; scores ≥11: very large/extremely-large effect). Descriptive analyses using as-observed data were reported at baseline (Week 0) and Week 52 for deep responders regardless of treatment arm (pooled) and by treatment arms separately. For patients with IGA0 at Week 52, mean (SD) DLQI scores decreased from 14.0 (7.5) at baseline to 1.8 (2.7) at Week 52 in the pooled dataset (Nx=73) and from 12.6 (7.9) to 1.6 (2.8) for LEBQ4W (Nx=32). For patients with EASI90 at Week 52, the scores decreased from 14.6 (7.3) to 2.6 (3.3) in the pooled dataset (Nx=151) and from 14.4 (7.5) to 2.4 (3.3) for LEBQ4W (Nx=67). For patients with EASI100 at Week 52, the scores decreased from 13.9 (7.4) to 1.9 (2.8) in the pooled dataset (Nx=68) and from 12.8 (8.2) to 1.6 (2.9) with LEBQ4W (Nx=29). For PNRS01, the scores decreased from 14.1 (6.8) to 1.4 (1.9) in the pooled dataset (Nx=80) and from 14.1 (7.5) to 1.3 (2.3) with LEBQ4W (Nx=36). Deep response in skin clearance and itch relief was achievable with LEB and was associated with substantial improvement in QOL to levels indicating minimal-to-no impact of AD on QOL.

Relationships between Chronic Cough and Asthma Control and Quality-of-Life in Patients with Severe Asthma: A 6-Month Longitudinal Analysis.

The prevalence and clinical implications of chronic cough (CC) in patients with severe asthma receiving asthma treatment remain relatively unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the relationships between CC and asthma control and quality-of-life (QoL) in patients with severe asthma through longitudinal analysis. Baseline and 6-month follow-up data from the Korean Severe Asthma Registry were analyzed. CC was defined as a cough visual analog scale (VAS) score of ≥40 at both baseline and 6-months. Demographic parameters and clinical outcomes were compared between patients with severe asthma and CC and those without CC. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) analysis was performed to identify associations of CC with asthma control and QoL scores. Of the total 286 participants with severe asthma, 116 (40.6%) were defined as having CC. Patients with CC had higher baseline cough and wheeze severity VAS scores (all P<0.001), poorer asthma control (P<0.001), and worse QoL (Severe Asthma Questionnaire [SAQ] and Euro-QoL 5-dimension [EQ-5D] index, all P<0.001), compared to those without CC. During follow-up, patients with CC were more frequently exposed to oral corticosteroids (58.6% vs. 38.6%, P=0.010) and experienced more frequent asthma exacerbations (48.3% vs. 28.6%, P=0.009) than those without CC. GEE analysis revealed that CC was independently associated with poor asthma control, lower SAQ scores, and lower EQ-5D index after adjusting for confounders. The presence of CC was associated with worse asthma control and QoL in patients with severe asthma. Further studies are warranted to better evaluate and manage CC in these patients.

Ultrasound-guided Transperineal Prostate Thermal Ablation (TPTA) for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Feasibility of an Outpatient Procedure using Radiofrequency Ablation.

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and short-term (3-month) results of transperineal prostate thermal ablation (TPTA) as a minimally invasive outpatient treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A prospective nonrandomized study of 25 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to BPH seeking care at 2 interventional radiology centers between March and July 2024. TPTA was performed using a 17G radiofrequency needle with a 10-mm active tip under unconscious sedation combined with bilateral perineal and periprostatic nerve blocks. The primary outcome measure was technical success, defined as successful bilateral ablation of the prostate transition zone. Secondary outcome measures included changes of international prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), prostate volume, intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), post-void residual volume (PVR), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), and need for BPH medical therapy at 3months relative to baseline. All procedures were technically successful (100%). The median patient age was 69.4years (IQR 54-74), and all were discharged within 3h of the end of the procedure. Sixteen patients (64.0%) were discharged without a urinary catheter, and 6 patients (24.0%) reported mild complications. At 3-month follow-up, there were significant reductions in IPSS (79.1%), QoL score (70.3%), prostate volume (36.9%), IPP (70.8%), PSA (54.7%), and PVR (51.1%), whereas Qmax increased significantly (102.3%). Twenty-four patients (96.0%) reported discontinuation of medical therapy after TPTA. Ultrasound-guided TPTA using radiofrequency ablation is feasible and safe in the outpatient setting, with significant clinical improvements after 3months of the procedure. Level 3 [non-randomized prospective cohort study].

Efficacy and Safety of UVA1 Phototherapy Adjunct Treatment for Acute Cutaneous Inflammations and Neuralgia of Herpes Zoster: A Prospective, Randomized, Open-Label, Blinded End-Point Study.

Background: Previous case reports hint ultraviolet A1 (UVA1) phototherapy as a novel adjunct treatment for acute cutaneous inflammations and neuralgia of herpes zoster, but its clinical effectiveness and safety in this condition are not yet proven by clinical trials. Objectives: To determine the efficacy and safety of UVA1 phototherapy as an adjunct treatment for acute inflammation and neuralgia in herpes zoster. Methods: A total of 60 patients with moderate-to-severe acute herpes zoster were randomly divided into two parallel groups. Group I received regular treatment and UVA1, and Group II received regular treatment alone. Time of blister crusting and acute erythema subside, assessment of pain, sleep, anxiety, and quality of life were recorded accordingly. Results: In Groups I and II, 28 and 29 patients completed the treatment and follow-up, respectively, with no significant demographic or baseline differences. UVA1 therapy notably reduced blister crusting time and acute erythema subside time and achieved more rapid pain relief within the first 2 weeks. However, it did not significantly alter the rate of postherpetic neuralgia occurrence. Additionally, UVA1 therapy significantly improved anxiety and quality of life scores at the 2-week mark. The primary adverse effects were mild burning and hyperpigmentation at the treatment site. Conclusions: UVA1 phototherapy as an adjunct treatment can expedite the resolution of acute inflammatory cutaneous lesions and neuralgia associated with herpes zoster, providing swifter relief from anxiety and enhancing patient quality of life during the acute phase, with demonstrated good tolerability and safety.

Leg Ulcer and Venous Symptoms Related to Lower Extremity Arteriovenous Access for Hemodialysis: A Retrospective Review with Emphasis on Wound Complications.

Lower extremity arteriovenous (AV) access serves as a crucial alternative for hemodialysis when upper extremity options are no longer viable. While there are numerous reports on functional patency, limited information exists regarding complications related to venous insufficiency and postoperative quality of life. This study aims to assess the actual incidence of such complications and provide evidence-based insights for clinical decision-making. We retrospectively analyzed 121 end-stage renal disease patients who underwent lower extremity AV access at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital from 2006 to 2023. Among them, 105 patients (86.8%) had lower extremity AV grafts, while 16 patients (13.2%) had lower extremity AVF. Primary and secondary patency rate were 69.4% and 81.8% at one year, respectively. The mortality probability was 50.4% with a mean follow-up of 58 months. Mortality predictors included age (P = .001), aspirin use (P = .022) and statin use (P = .005). Primary failure occurred in 8 patients (6.6%) and vascular graft infection is the primary cause. There were no occurrences of venous leg ulcers developed, suggesting that the risk of this complication may be lower than previously thought in the short to medium term. However, 13.3% of patients experienced leg swelling and 21.7% had hyperpigmentation. The mean revised venous clinical severity score was 1.22 and the average EQ-5D-5L quality of life score was 0.99. Our findings suggest that the risk of venous leg ulcers in patients with lower extremity AV access may be lower than previously thought, at least in the short to medium term. This should encourage surgeons to consider this technique when upper extremity options are exhausted, while maintaining vigilance for early signs of venous insufficiency. Continued research into the detrimental effects of the hyper-dynamic blood flow rate on AV access and preventive strategies will enhance the benefit of lower extremity AV access in the future.

The relationship between frailty syndrome and quality of life in patients with hypertension: a multidimensional analysis

BackgroundHypertension is a common condition among the elderly and is frequently accompanied by frailty syndrome (FS). The coexistence of hypertension and FS poses significant challenges in patient management and negatively impacts the quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to analyze the relationship between FS and QoL in elderly patients with suspected hypertension.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted involving 201 patients aged 65 years or older, referred to a Hypertension Clinic for diagnostic evaluation. Frailty was assessed using the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI), and QoL was evaluated with the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument (WHOQOL-BREF). Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, and statistical analyses were performed to identify correlations between FS and QoL.ResultsThe study found that 79.60% of the patients were identified as frail (TFI ≥ 5). FS was significantly negatively correlated with all domains of QoL, including physical health (r = -0.634, p < 0.001), psychological health (r = -0.675, p < 0.001), social relationships (r = -0.528, p < 0.001), and environmental factors (r = -0.626, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that physical (β = -0.091, p < 0.001) and psychological components of FS (β = -0.128, p = 0.016), as well as age (β = -0.022, p = 0.004), were significant predictors of lower QoL scores. Loneliness (β = -0.235, p = 0.049) was also a significant predictor of lower QoL.ConclusionsThe study demonstrated a strong association between FS and reduced QoL in elderly hypertensive patients, emphasizing the need for comprehensive assessments and personalized management strategies. Routine evaluation of frailty and the implementation of targeted interventions aimed at improving physical, psychological, and social well-being could substantially enhance QoL in this vulnerable population.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.

The impact of an interactive online informational and peer support application (app) for patients with low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) on quality of life: a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS) describes bowel dysfunction post-restorative proctectomy (RP) and is associated with poor quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to assess the impact of an interactive online informational and peer support App on participants' QoL (primary outcome), LARS, and emotional distress (secondary outcomes). A multicentre, randomized, parallel-group trial was conducted across five Canadian colorectal surgery practices. Adult patients who: (1) underwent RP for rectal cancer and completed all treatment and (2) had major/minor LARS were included. Participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to treatment or comparison group, stratified by hospital site and years post-RP. The treatment group had access to the App for a period of 6months, and the comparison group received a booklet containing the same educational material as the App. The primary outcome was change in global QoL (EORTC-QLQ-C30) from baseline to 6months post-intervention. Per-protocol and intention to treat analysis were performed, controlling for a priori selected variables (sex, time from end of treatment). Of the 101 enrolled participants, 10 individuals were lost to follow-up and 91 completed the study. Participants were well-balanced in terms of baseline characteristics, QoL and bowel dysfunction. Among the 45 App users, median log-in per person was 21, with 30 (66.7%) participants meeting criteria for adequate app usage. On intention to treat analysis, there was no statistically significant difference in QoL in the App group. On the per-protocol analysis, where only participants who met adequate App usage criteria were included in the treatment group, the group reported statistically significant improvement in QoL (β 9.5, 95% CI 4.6,14.6) and LARS (β -2.7, 95%CI -5.1,-0.2) scores following App usage. This multicenter randomized controlled trial support that, when adequately used, an interactive online informational and peer support App has the potential to improve QoL of rectal cancer survivors living with LARS post-RP.

The role of clinical pharmacist in the management of resistant hypertension.

Hypertension is a major contributor to global cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Treatment-resistant hypertension (TRH) presents a significant management challenge, requiring a pharmacist-physician collaborative model to achieve sustained blood pressure (BP) control. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a clinical pharmacy interventions on BP control, medication adherence, and patient outcomes in patients with TRH in a primary care setting. A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 142 patients with TRH at two primary care clinics. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group, receiving clinical pharmacy services including medication reviews and personalized counseling, or the control group, receiving standard care. Medication adherence was assessed using the Medication Adherence Rating Scale, and patient outcomes, including BP control and quality of life (QoL), were measured over a 6-month period. The intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in medication adherence compared to the control group (p < 0.001), with an effect size of - 1.75. Clinical parameters, such as BP (mean reduction in BP: 27.9/13.4mmHg), showed more favorable outcomes in the intervention group (p = 0.003). Furthermore, patients receiving clinical pharmacy services reported higher QoL scores (p < 0.001) and expressed higher satisfaction with medication management. Clinical pharmacy interventions significantly enhance medication adherence and improve patient achievement of target BP goals in TRH patients. Incorporating clinical pharmacy services into routine care can lead to better health management and increased patient QoL. Further research is needed to explore long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness.

Physical activities, sedentary behavior, sleep quality, and quality of life among female medical versus nonmedical college students: A cross-sectional study

Despite the numerous health benefits of physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB) and physical inactivity remain major public health concerns. A lack of PA increases the chance of developing some noncommunicable diseases that are on the rise worldwide. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the level of PA, SB, sleep quality (SQ), and quality of life (QOL) among Saudi female college students. A cross-sectional study was carried out among female students enrolled in various colleges, both medical and nonmedical, at King Saud University in Riyadh during the academic year 2018 to 2019. Participation posters were sent to colleges’ departments, and survey links were shared through university social media channels. The study utilized the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to evaluate PA and SQ and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment Instrument to evaluate QOL. In order to conduct statistical analyses, frequency counts, means, and standard deviations were calculated for PA, SQ, and QOL scores. In this study, 131 Saudi female college students were conveniently recruited from 223 who met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 20.4 ± 1.4. Most participants were from medical colleges (n = 86, 6, 5.6%) and the minority were nonmedical (n = 45, 34.4%). We have found that International Physical Activity Questionnaire indicated that most students had low PA (52% of the participants), about 35% had a moderate PA, and only 17% had high PA. SB was present among 22.9% of participants. Nearly 68.7% of the students scored poorly on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index for SQ. The students had high QOL, with a mean WHOQOL-BREF total score of 90.76 ± 12.77. Medical and nonmedical students showed no significant differences in PA, SB, or QOL. No apparent relationship was found between PA and SQ or QOL. This study shows that a significant proportion of female college students maintain an unfavorable lifestyle characterized by insufficient PA and subpar SQ. Implementing programs that encourage students to be more physically active, reduce sedentary time, and integrate sleep education programs to improve their sleep habits are necessary.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Add-On Therapy of Palmitoylethanolamide to Standard Therapy in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Background: Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is a common yet challenging complication of diabetes, particularly in managing neuropathic pain. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a naturally occurring nutraceutical from the ALIAmides group, has demonstrated potential for pain modulation, inflammation reduction, and improving quality of life. Method: A 9-month prospective observational study at PSG Hospital evaluated the impact of adding oral capsule PEA (708 mg in two divided doses) to standard therapy for DPN patients unresponsive to maximum tolerated dosages of Gabapentin, Pregabalin, amitriptyline, or duloxetine. The outcomes were the pain severity and quality of life. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), sensitivity was evaluated via monofilament testing, and quality of life was measured using the American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA) Quality of Life Scale (QOLS). Results: Sixty patients with DPN were treated with adjunctive PEA and monitored for 8 weeks. Pain scores decreased significantly (6.05±1.096 to 4.15±1.233 at 4 weeks and 3.57±1.155 at 8 weeks, p˂0.05). Sensitivity improved via monofilament testing (7.12±1.58 to 9.43±0.78). Quality of life scores rose from 7.67 to 9.41 at 4 weeks and 9.68 at 8 weeks, indicating notable benefits. Conclusion: PEA proved effective as a supplemental treatment for nonresponsive DPN patients, yielding significant reductions in pain, enhanced sensitivity, and better quality of life. Importantly, no side effects were reported, affirming its tolerability and safety.

Quality of Life in People With HIV at the End of Life: Preliminary Results From the Last Gift Observational Cohort Study.

As people living with HIV (PWH) age, they face new challenges that can have a negative impact on their quality of life (QOL) and mental health. This study enrolled PWH at the end of life (EOL) who were actively engaged in cure-related research in Southern California, United States. EOL was defined as having a prognosis of 6 months or less to live. We examined the relationship between QOL, mental health, and research participation. Structured assessments were used to collect comprehensive data on QOL and mental health. From 2017 to 2023, 35 PWH in their final stages of life who were actively engaged in cure-related research were enrolled. Their median age was 62.7 years, and most were White or otherwise non-Hispanic/non-Latino (90.6%), and male (86.7%). Changes in QOL and the presence of neurologic and psychiatric conditions, with a focus on depression and anxiety, were the primary outcomes assessed in this study. Participants had stable QOL scores throughout the study. There was an inverse relationship between QOL and Beck Depression Inventory scores, with higher mean QOL scores being associated with lower mean Beck Depression Inventory scores ( P < 0.001). QOL remained stable among PWH who participate in cure-related research at EOL. The inverse relationship between QOL and depressive symptoms suggests that participation in cure-related research may improve QOL or reduce depressive symptoms in this population. Future interventions should look into ways to improve the well-being of PWH at EOL through research and customized mental health interventions.

Efficacy and Safety of Short Intravenous Hydration for Preventing Nephrotoxicity From High-Dose Cisplatin: A Randomized, Open-Label, Phase II Trial

PURPOSE The use of short hydration (SH) to prevent cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity lacks substantive prospective evaluation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of SH, including those with head and neck cancer (HNC) who are at higher risks of mucositis that causes diminished oral intake. METHODS This phase II randomized noncomparative trial included patients with cancer who were scheduled to receive high-dose cisplatin (≥60 mg/m 2 ) in combination with another chemotherapy or concurrently with radiotherapy. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either the SH or conventional hydration (CH) protocol. The primary end point was the proportion of patients with increased serum creatinine (SCr) after undergoing SH. Secondary end points included the severity of SCr elevation, adverse events, cisplatin modification as a result of nephrotoxicity, duration of hospital stay, quality of life (QoL), and cost. RESULTS Among 100 enrolled patients, 64 and 36 patients underwent the SH and CH protocols, respectively. The median duration of chemotherapy infusion and intravenous hydration were 5.79 and 27.58 hours with SH and CH, respectively. A total of 32.8% and 33.3% of the SH and CH groups, respectively, experienced SCr elevation. Grade 2 SCr elevations were rarely observed in both groups (1.6% in SH, 2.8% in CH). Rate of cisplatin modification was similar between the two groups. Out of 82 patients with HNC, the rate of SCr elevation was comparable for both hydration protocols. The QoL scores were meaningfully higher in the SH group during the second cycle of cisplatin, although the overall direct medical costs were similar. CONCLUSION The SH protocol is feasible and safe, with a remarkably reduced duration of administration. Thus, SH can be an alternative to CH in the prevention of cisplatin-related nephrotoxicity.

Brazilian children's quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic: analysis of contextual factors and dimensions.

The aim of this study was to investigate the contextual factors associated with the quality of life (QOL) of Brazilian children aged 0-12 years during the strict period of social isolation. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted between July and September 2020 using an online questionnaire on QOL-related family factors and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL™). Results were analyzed by multinomial logistic regression analysis. The sample had 849 children, mostly from the South Region of Brazil (75%), white (83%), with typical development (79%), sedentary (68%), using screen (85%) for >3 h/day (44%). Their mothers were their main caregivers (90%). The following variables were significantly associated with high scores of QOL: typical health status (OR 2.38; 95%CI 1.60-3.55; screen time ≤2 h/day (OR 1.62; 95%CI 1.17-2.24); social distancing considered as "easy" (OR 1.67; 95%CI 1.20-2.32), and stimulation of the child by the family (OR 1.93; 95%CI 1.08-3.45). This study indicates that the family context can influence children's QOL, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and home environment reorganization.

Efficacy and safety evaluation of Boswellia serrata and Curcuma longa extract combination in the management of chronic lower back pain: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.

Chronic lower back pain (CLBP) is a major condition that leads to disability and reduced quality of life (QoL). This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel Boswellia serrata and Curcuma longa combination (CL20192) for the treatment of CLBP. Participants with CLBP were randomised to receive either a 300 mg CL20192 capsule (n = 45) or placebo capsule (n = 45) once daily for 90 days. Efficacy was evaluated using the Descriptor Differential Scale and Oswestry Disability Index scores for pain, unpleasantness, and disability. Additionally, the 36-item short form questionnaire was used for QoL evaluation. Frequency of painkiller use, serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers (tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), and phytoconstituents (total boswellic acids and curcuminoids) were determined. Therapy satisfaction was assessed using the Physician and Patient Global Assessment Scales. All randomised participants completed the study. CL20192 supplementation significantly reduced Descriptor Differential Scale pain, unpleasantness, and Oswestry Disability Index scores compared with the placebo group (p < 0.001 for all parameters). Critical QoL scores greatly improved in the CL20192 group. Serum phytoconstituent levels were elevated in the CL20192-treated group. This group demonstrated a significant reduction in inflammatory biomarker levels (tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), confirming efficacy in abating CLBP compared with the placebo. Moreover, therapy satisfaction scores were significantly high in the CL20192-treated group, and intervention with CL20192 was well tolerated. Intervention with 300 mg CL20192 capsules, containing a novel combination of Boswellia serrata and Curcuma longa extracts, effectively alleviated pain, unpleasantness, and disability in patients with CLBP compared with the placebo. This outcome was consistent with a decrease in serum inflammatory markers and improved therapy assessment scores.

A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing the Clinical Outcomes of the Hydrosurgery System and Traditional Single-Incision Surgery for Axillary Osmidrosis.

To compare the postoperative scarring, complication rates, and efficacy between the hydrosurgery system and traditional single-incision surgical techniques for treating axillary osmidrosis. A retrospective collection was conducted of all patients who underwent radical surgery for axillary osmidrosis at the Day Surgery Unit of the Department of Plastic Surgery at the First Affiliated Hospital of the Army Medical University from January 2023 to January 2024. Patients were screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and divided into the hydrosurgery group and the traditional surgery group. The evaluation was done through medical records, follow-up records, electronic questionnaires, and photographs. Assessments included 6-month postoperative scarring conditions, comprehensive effectiveness scores, postoperative odor/hair/sweating scores, postoperative dermatological life quality scores, and complication rates. A total of 73 patients completed this study: 34 in the hydrosurgery group and 39 in the traditional surgery group. 6 months postoperatively, the hydrosurgery group had significantly lower scores of the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), 0.5 (range 0.0-2.0) compared with 1.5 (range 0.5-3.0) in the traditional surgery group (p = 0.018). The incidence of complications such as subcutaneous hematoma, epidermal necrosis, and wound dissidence was also lower (26.5% vs. 51.3%, p = 0.031). Additionally, the surgical incision length in the hydrosurgery group was significantly smaller than in the traditional surgery group (1.200 cm (1.000, 1.275) vs. 2.500 cm (2.500, 3.000), p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding comprehensive effectiveness scores, postoperative odor/hair/sweating scores, postoperative dermatological life quality index, and surgical duration. Compared with traditional single-incision surgical techniques, patients in the hydrosurgery group exhibited lower scar scores 6 months postsurgery, required smaller surgical incisions, and had lower rates of surgical complications. Thus, the hydrosurgery is suitable for the minimally invasive surgical treatment of axillary osmidrosis, offering a safe, effective, and aesthetically superior treatment method.

Effects of Face and Body Acupuncture on Glabellar Frown Lines in Women Aged 30-59: a Study Protocol for a Double-Arm Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial.

As average life expectancy increases, the role of beauty in quality of life (QOL) becomes more important. Invasive rejuvenation methods, such as cosmetic surgery and botulinum toxin injections, do not address the underlying causes of facial aging, are expensive, and carry inherent risks. Acupuncture, as a holistic alternative, may offer a safer method for facial rejuvenation by addressing the overall health of the body. This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of facial and body acupuncture in reducing frown lines in women aged 30-59 in Mashhad, Iran. A total of 72 participants will be randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. The intervention group will receive 12 sessions of face and body acupuncture over six weeks, while the control group will receive no treatment. The primary outcome will be the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) assessed using standardized photographs. Secondary outcomes include the Subject Satisfaction Scale (SSS) and the QOL scores. Outcomes will be measured at three time points: baseline (week 0), posttreatment (week 7), and follow-up (week 12). The results of this trial will provide robust evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in reducing frown lines.