Short Form Research Articles

The impact of acupuncture on the brain function of patients with mild to moderate major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial protocol

IntroductionMajor depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental disease that significantly impact the daily lives of those affected. Acupuncture has shown promising therapeutic effects in the treatment of MDD, but its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate the influence of acupuncture on the brain function of patients with MDD and it’s therapeutic effects on MDD.MethodsThis study plans to recruit 112 participants, who will be randomly allocated to either the acupuncture group or the sham acupuncture group in a 1:1 ratio. Both groups will undergo 8 weeks of treatment, consisting of three sessions per week, with each session lasting for 30 min. A follow-up period of 3 months will be conducted after the treatment. Assessments will be conducted at weeks 0, 8, 12, 16, and 20 in this study. The primary outcome measure will be functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) brain imaging, while secondary outcome measures will include Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), 36-Item Short Form Survey Instrument (SF-36), Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome score scale, and symptom elimination rate.DiscussionWhile acupuncture has been confirmed to have a certain degree of therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of MDD, research on the mechanisms underlying acupuncture’s treatment of MDD remains limited, particularly with regards to its impact on the brain function of individuals with MDD. This study aims to explore both the clinical effectiveness and treatment mechanisms of acupuncture for MDD, with a specific focus on its influence on brain function. This research endeavors to provide new insights into the potential of acupuncture as a therapeutic approach for the treatment of MDD in the future.Trial Registrationwww.chictr.org.cn, ID: ChiCTR2300076292. Registered on 28 September 2023.

Gender features of clinical manifestations and quality of life indicators in generalized myasthenia

Objective. To study the influence of clinical indicators of myasthenia gravis severity to the quality of life of men and women with generalized myasthenia gravis.Materials and methods. The study included 41 patients aged 60.4±16.4 years with generalized myasthenia gravis: 31 (76 %) women and 10 (24 %) men. Clinical manifestations of myasthenia gravis were assessed with quantitative myasthenia gravis score, myasthenia gravis-specific activities of daily living scale and short form of specialized quality of life questionnaire. Forced vital respiratory capacity was measured in all patients with subsequent additional data calculation.Results. We revealed significant improvement of examined data during hospitalization in both males and females, but in females, significant improvement was established in all quantitative myasthenia gravis score subscales. In men worse affection of swallowing muscles and severe pain phenomena were revealed. Correlations of physical functioning parameter with total quantitative myasthenia gravis score and with score characterizing the strength of limb muscles were revealed in studying group.Conclusion. Clinical manifestations and course of myasthenia gravis have the peculiarities n men and women. Quality of life disorder in studying patients correlated with severity of clinical manifestations, mainly with limb weakness.

Patients with multiple sclerosis have higher rates of worsening following total hip arthroplasty: a propensity-matched analysis.

The progressive nature of multiple sclerosis (MS) may adversely affect outcomes following total hip arthroplasty (THA). As patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in this specific group are not well defined, this study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and the rates of achieving the minimal clinically important difference for improvement (MCID-I) and worsening (MCID-W) between patients with MS and those without MS undergoing THA. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 375 THAs, including 75 MS patients and 300 propensity-matched non-MS patients (4:1), performed between 2016 and 2022. Collected PROMs included Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global Health Mental and Physical, PROMIS Physical Function short form 10-a (PF-10a), and Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score-Physical Function Short-form (HOOS-PS). Preoperative and postoperative PROMs and MCID-I/MCID-W rates were compared. A total of 375 THAs, including 75 MS and 300 matched non-MS patients, were analysed. MS patients had higher 90-day postoperative complication rates (9.3% vs. 2.3%, p = 0.012) and infection rates (4.0% vs. 0.3%, p = 0.006). The rates of achieving MCID-I and MCID-W were similar for PROMIS Global Mental, PROMIS Global Physical, and HOOS-PS, but MS patients had a higher rate of experiencing MCID-W for PROMIS PF-10a compared to non-MS patients (16.7% vs. 6.5%, p = 0.022). Additionally, MS patients had a longer mean hospital stay (2.4 vs. 1.9 days, p = 0.005) and lower rates of being discharged home (82.7% vs. 94.3%, p < 0.001). The present study found that MS patients experience similar rates of MCID-I and MCID-W in most PROMs but have a higher rate of MCID-W for PROMIS PF-10a and increased postoperative complications. These findings highlight the need for careful consideration of postoperative risks despite potential improvements. Further research is needed to explore the impact of MS progression on PROMs and perioperative outcomes.

Collagenase Chemonucleolysis for Treating Cervical Disc Herniation: An Exploratory, Single-Arm, Open-Label, Multicenter Clinical Trial.

Cervical disc herniation (CDH) is the most common cause of cervical radiculopathy and causes persistent neck pain and neurological deficits. Collagenase chemonucleolysis has been successfully applied to treat lumbar disc herniation, which has a similar pathological mechanism to CDH. However, its application for CDH remains under-researched, and there is an even greater lack of high-quality clinical evidence. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of collagenase chemonucleolysis for treating CDH. Eligible patients with CDH underwent collagenase chemonucleolysis via anterior cervical intradiscal injection or epidural injection. The primary efficacy endpoint showed an excellent and good rate regarding the Odom criteria, which was not lower than the reference value (≥ 78%) at 6 months postoperatively. The secondary efficacy endpoints were the percentage reduction in Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores from baseline, which were not lower than the reference values (≥ 40%, ≥ 30%), and improvement in the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) score compared to the preoperative value. The pre- and postoperative CDH index of patients were also compared. Safety endpoints included the incidence of adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs). An excellent and good rate regarding the Odom criteria 6 months postoperatively was 90.5% (133/147), which was significantly higher than 78% (P < 0.004, 95% confidence interval 85.7-95.2%). The reduction in NRS and NDI scores exceeded 40% (P < 0.001) and 30% (P < 0.001), respectively. The SF-36 scores at 3 months and 6 months postoperatively were significantly higher than those preoperatively (P < 0.001). A significant difference was observed in the pre- and postoperative CDH index (109.6 ± 119.1 vs. 70.8 ± 74.8, P < 0.001). The incidence of AEs was 22.5% (33/147), of which 97.8% were grade 1-2. No collagenase-related AEs and SAEs occurred. Collagenase chemonucleolysis treatment for CDH exhibited favorable efficacy and safety and may be a better choice for patients in whom conservative treatment is ineffective. The trial was registered on www.Chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2200063043).

The ability of GLIM and MNA-FF to diagnose malnutrition and predict sarcopenia and frailty in hospitalized adults over 60 years of age

IntroductionMalnutrition remains common in adults over 60 years old. Although there are screening and diagnostic tools for malnutrition, there is no globally used approach to diagnosing malnutrition in older adults admitted to the hospital. In this study, we verified the agreement between the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) and the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and the ability of the instruments to identify frailty and sarcopenia associated with malnutrition.MethodsFor adults over 60 years old, malnutrition diagnosis was performed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment Full Form (MNA-FF) tool and the GLIM criteria, which included calf circumference and fat-free mass index to assess muscle mass, with and without the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA-SF) screening. Health conditions were assessed in older adults, and the association of these conditions with malnutrition was analyzed using both tools.ResultsA total of 432 adults over 60 years old were investigated with a mean age of 71.14 ± 8 years. The GLIM criteria with the nutritional screening tool identified 61–63% of older adults as malnourished. Of these, 63–64% were severely malnourished. The MNA-FF tool classified 20% of those assessed as malnourished. The agreement between the MNA-FF and GLIM was better with the use of screening, with a kappa (K) value of −0.10 and − 0.11. Sarcopenia was associated with malnutrition as identified by the MNA-FF (OR: 3.08, 95% CI: 1.84–5.14) and only by the GLIM ANTHRO (OR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.05–2.63). Frailty was associated with the MNA-FF (OR: 15.99, 95% CI: 2.16–118.36), GLIM ANTHRO (OR: 2.21, 95% CI: 1.31–3.71), and GLIM BIA (OR: 2.45, 95% CI: 1.45–4.12).ConclusionIt is possible to verify that divergent conceptual frameworks are used to understand malnutrition by the MNA-FF and GLIM and that the GLIM obtained a greater number of malnutrition diagnoses. Both the GLIM ANTHRO and the MNA-FF associated malnutrition with frailty and sarcopenia, with higher hazard ratios for the MNA-FF.

Potential of diacerein in combination with aerobic exercise in comprehensive treatment of knee osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND: Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative disease characterized by cartilage destruction and inflammatory changes in the synovial membrane. Obesity and metabolic syndrome are significant risk factors that exacerbate inflammatory processes and contribute to the progression of osteoarthritis. Modern treatment methods include both pharmacological agents and non-pharmacological approaches such as aerobic exercise. AIM: To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of diacerein combined with aerobic physical activity (Nordic walking) in the comprehensive treatment of knee osteoarthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study involved 65 patients aged 45 to 70 years with knee osteoarthritis and metabolic syndrome. The participants were divided into three groups. The first group received diacerein (Artrocare); the second group was engaged in Nordic walking; the third group – a combination of these methods. The visual analog scale of pain, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index, quality of life (Short Form-36), glycated hemoglobin levels, and other biochemical parameters were assessed over 16 weeks of observation. RESULTS: The study demonstrated statistically significant reductions in pain levels and improvements in functional parameters in all the groups. The greatest improvements were observed in the group receiving combined therapy. The method showed a significantly positive impact on quality of life and reduced the need for analgesics in comorbid patients. Additionally, the patients with metabolic syndrome showed improved biochemical parameters with the combination of diacerein and Nordic walking. CONCLUSIONS: The combined use of diacerein and Nordic walking is an effective and safe method for treating knee osteoarthritis, particularly in patients with metabolic syndrome. This approach significantly reduces pain, improves joint function, and enhances overall quality patient’s life.

Clinical and laboratory-instrumental characteristics of patients with dyspepsia syndrome not associated with &lt;i&gt;Нelicobacter pylori&lt;/i&gt; infection

BACKGROUND: The significant prevalence of dyspepsia in patients without Нelicobacter pylori infection, difficulties in differential diagnosis necessitate the identification of the most common nosological variants, optimization of the diagnosis algorithm. AIM: To study clinical, laboratory and instrumental characteristics of patients with dyspepsia syndrome unrelated to Нelicobacter pylori infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 13C-Urea Breath test was performed to 856 patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia. According to its results, 342 patients with Нelicobacter pylori infection were excluded from the study. The remaining patients (n = 514) with negative Нelicobacter pylori status underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs. The patients with an identified organic pathology (n = 129) explaining dyspeptic complaints were excluded from the study. 208 out of the 385 patients without organic pathology agreed to undergo laboratory and instrumental examination in accordance with the study protocol. To assess dyspeptic complaints, 208 patients filled out a “Dyspepsia Questionnaire” developed by the authors. Demographic, anthropometric data, and complaints were recorded in all the study participants; experimental psychological testing was performed (Beck’s questionnaires, generalized anxiety disorder questionnaire-7, Short Form-36) and laboratory and instrumental examination (the level of pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II, immunoglobulin class G to Нelicobacter pylori and gastrin-17 in serum), esophagogastrogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy and pathomorphological assessment according to the Operative Link for Gastritis Assessment (OLGA) system, 24-hour esophageal impedance–pH monitoring, radiography of the esophagus and stomach. RESULTS: The majority of the patients with dyspepsia syndrome were not infected at the time of Нelicobacter pylori complaints — 514 (60.1%) patients. An in-depth examination of 208 people with a negative helicobacter status and the absence of an organic pathology explaining the symptoms revealed the heterogeneity of the final diagnoses. The results of the study demonstrate positive correlations between the level of depression, anxiety and the AET (acid exposure time) index, the number of acid reflux. A decrease in the level of pepsinogen I, gastrin-17, and the ratio of pepsinogen I/II was revealed with an increase in the degree and stage of atrophy according to the results of an Operative Link for Gastritis Assessment biopsy. CONCLUSIONS: The revealed variability of diagnoses and comorbidity in patients with similar complaints deepens the understanding of dyspepsia syndrome and explains the possible ineffectiveness of standard therapy regimens.

Acceptability and utility of a broad test battery to evaluate physical functioning and frailty in community-based settings for people experiencing homelessness and addiction–Findings from the LEAP trials

BackgroundPhysical function deficits and frailty are commonly reported in people experiencing homelessness and addiction. Typically, geriatric, or general physical performance measures are employed to evaluate these constructs. Objectives and settingWe aimed to investigate the feasibility of a broad test battery to evaluate physical functioning and frailty in a non-geriatric community-based population of people experiencing homelessness and addiction. Design and methodsPhysical function and the presence of frailty was evaluated using combined data from two linked low-threshold exercise pre-post intervention studies (LEAP I and II). ParticipantsSeventy-four participants attending an open-access day-service centre (18 to 65 years) were evaluated. Participants with acute confusion or behavioural issues, or major medical condition precluding safe participation were excluded. InterventionA broad test battery was performed which evaluated physical functioning and frailty. Main outcome measuresOutcome measures included were the Short Physical Performance Battery, Single Leg Stance, Chair Stand Test, 10 m and 2 minute Walk Tests, limb circumference, dynamometry, Clinical Frailty Scale, SHARE-Frailty Instrument, numerical pain rating and Short Form-12. ResultsTest completion was 100% for all outcomes except pain rating (81% and 79% for LEAPI and II, respectively), and balance and walking tests (95% and 93% in LEAP II). A ceiling effect was detected for the Short Physical Performance Battery. ConclusionHigh feasibility of the test batteries was demonstrated. An optimised test battery was proposed based on findings. This has important implications for clinicians working in inclusion health settings. Clinical Trial Registration NumberClinical Trials.gov: NCT05700305. Contribution of the Paper•This paper proposes a suitable test battery to enable clinicians to evaluate physical functioning and frailty in people experiencing homelessness and addiction challenges in community settings.•There is a paucity of research evaluating outcome measures for this population and no core outcome set has been reported.•This test battery would allow the effect of treatment and targeted interventions to be evaluated in this marginalised population.

Effect of additional free sustentaculum tali screw fixation through modified sinus tarsi approach on intra-articular calcaneal fractures

BackgroundCalcaneal fractures are the most common type of tarsal fractures. The sustentaculum tali (ST) offers anatomical stability in calcaneal fractures, and recently, ST screws have been widely used in their treatment. This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy and value of ST screw fixation via a modified sinus tarsi approach (MSTA) for treating displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs).MethodsThis study enrolled 64 patients (64 feet): 32 patients in the calcaneal locking plate combined with the ST screw group (CLP-STS Group) and 32 patients in the simple calcaneal locking plate internal fixation group (CLP Group). The minimum follow-up duration was 18 months. Ankle function was evaluated using VAS, AOFAS, and Short Form-36 scores. Imaging evaluation included the Böhler angle, Gissane angle, length, height, and width of the calcaneus, and the Böhler angle in both groups 1 year after surgery.ResultsFunctional evaluation revealed that postoperative AOFAS and VAS scores in the CLP-STS Group were significantly better than those in the CLP Group. After surgery, the Böhler angle, Gissane angle, and length, height, and width of the calcaneus were significantly corrected compared to the preoperative values; however, the difference in these indicators between the two groups was not significant. Nevertheless, at the 1-year postoperative follow-up, the calcaneal Böhler angle loss in the CLP-STS Group was significantly better than that in the CLP Group.ConclusionCompared to simple calcaneal locking plate internal fixation, combining the plate with the additionally free ST screw can resolve the limited intraoperative exposure of MSTA, reduce postoperative foot pain in patients, and improve clinical efficacy.

Exploring the links between sensory sensitivity, autistic traits and autism-related eating behaviours in a sample of adult women with eating disorders

This study examined the presence of autistic traits in a sample of adult women diagnosed with different Eating Disorders (ED), and explored the concurrent role of autistic traits and sensory sensitivity in influencing both their eating disorder symptomatology and their autism-related eating behaviours. Seventy-five women with different ED (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge-Eating Disorder, Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder) completed the Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26), the Autism Quotient (AQ), the Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R), the Sensory Perception Quotient - Short Form 35 item (SPQ-SF35) and the Swedish Eating Assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorders (SWEAA). Twelve percent of participants scored above the cut-off on both the AQ and the RAADS-R, while 68% scored above the cut-off on the RAADS-R only. A mediation analysis revealed that the association between sensory sensitivity (SPQ-SFR35) and scores on both the EAT-26 and the SWEAA was significantly mediated by the presence of autistic traits (RAADS-R). These findings, first, confirm the presence of autistic traits in individuals with ED; second, they show that a lower sensory threshold (i.e., a higher sensory sensitivity) is associated with a higher presence of autistic traits which were, in turn, positively associated with dysfunctional eating behaviours typical of ED and ASD. This study ultimately highlights the importance of further research on autistic traits across all diagnostic categories of ED.

Standardizing Nutritional Care for Cancer Patients: Implementation and Evaluation of a Malnutrition Risk Screening.

Introduction Cancer-related malnutrition is a highly prevalent, yet often overlooked concern in clinical practice. Although cancer-related management guidelines recommend standardized nutritional care, its implementation is scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of malnutrition and the medical need for nutrition counseling in cancer patients employing a novel standardized nutritional management program (containing malnutrition risk screening, nutritional assessment and counseling). Furthermore, differences of malnutrition parameters in different cancer patient cohorts were examined. Methods Cancer patients were screened for malnutrition using the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form (PG-SGA SF) on the first day of their inpatient admission to the internal oncology or hematology wards. PG-SGA total score and classification into the three PG-SGA nutrition stages (A, B, C) were used to determine nutritional status. In case of a positive screening, nutritional assessment and individualized counseling by a nutritionist followed. For group comparisons, patients were divided into different groups (e.g., age, gender, tumor entity) and were evaluated accordingly. Results A total of 1,100 inpatients were included. 56.8 % of the patients had suspected or already existing malnutrition. The most common nutrition impact symptom was loss of appetite (26.7 %), followed by fatigue (16.5 %) and pain (16.0 %). Female (p < 0.001), elderly (p < 0.001) and patients with upper gastrointestinal tract tumors (p < 0.001) showed an unfavorable nutritional status and higher need for counseling. Despite suffering from malnutrition, patients had Body Mass Indices within the upper end of the normal range. Conclusion This study shows a high prevalence of malnutrition in hospitalized cancer patients and highlights the need for a standardized nutritional management in the clinical setting. Therefore, it is recommended to provide a malnutrition risk screening for all cancer patients and a following adequate assessment and personalized nutritional care if needed.

Anxiety and Depression Are Associated with Poor Long-term Quality of Life in Moderate-to-Severe Ulcerative Colitis: Results of a 3-Year Longitudinal Study of the MOSAIK Cohort.

We previously reported that patients with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC) often experience common mental disorders (CMDs) such as anxiety and depression, necessitating immediate psychological interventions within the first 4 weeks of diagnosis. In this 3-year follow-up study of the MOSAIK cohort in Korea, we examined the effects of CMDs at initial diagnosis on clinical outcomes and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We examined differences in clinical outcomes (evaluated based on clinical response, relapse, hospitalization, and medication use) and HRQoL (assessed using the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire [IBDQ] and Short Form 12 [SF-12]) according to Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores at diagnosis. In a study involving 199 UC patients, 47.7% exhibited significant psychological distress (anxiety and/or depression) at diagnosis. Clinical follow-up showed no major differences in outcomes, including remission rates, response rates, or hospitalization rates, between patients with anxiety or depression at diagnosis and patients without anxiety or depression at diagnosis. The HRQoL at the end of follow-up was notably lower in those with baseline CMDs, particularly anxiety, across all domains of the IBDQ and SF-12. Linear mixed-effect models revealed that higher HADS scores, as well as higher Mayo scores, were independently associated with lower IBDQ scores and both summary domains of the SF-12. Additionally, regular attendance at follow-up visits during the study period was also related to improvements in HRQoL (all p<0.05). While CMDs present at the time of UC diagnosis did not influence long-term clinical outcomes, they persistently impaired HRQoL. Our findings support the routine incorporation of psychological interventions into the long-term management of moderate-to-severe UC.

Health-related quality of life and survival of older adults in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil: A retrospective analysis from 2008 to 2018

As the average life expectancy continues to rise, the prevalence of multimorbidity is also expected to increase, potentially leading to outcomes such as functional decline, a higher risk of premature death, and adverse effects on overall health and well-being. This study aimed to estimate the survival rates of older adults with varying levels of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and to assess the association between the domains and components of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey and all-cause mortality over a 10-year period in Brazil. We conducted a retrospective longitudinal study using baseline data from 1,520 elders (aged 60 years and older) who participated in the Health Care Survey of the Municipality of Campinas, S&amp;atilde;o Paulo, Brazil (ISACamp 2008/2009). A linkage was established between the ISACamp databases and the Mortality Information System. An active search was performed for individuals whose data could not be paired to confirm the death status. Survival functions were calculated using the Kaplan&amp;ndash;Meier method, while hazard ratios (with 95% confidence intervals) were determined using Cox regression analysis. All HRQoL domains showed proportional hazards and statistically significant differences (p &lt; 0.05) between survival curves, except for the bodily pain domain. In the multivariate analysis, lower scores in physical functioning and role-physical were associated with a 74% and 42% increased risk of death, respectively. In addition, impairments in role-emotional, mental health, and general health heightened the risk of mortality by approximately 36%. Notably, the lowest score in the physical component emerged as a significant predictor of mortality, increasing the probability of death by 47%, while the mental component showed no significant association. Our findings provide compelling evidence of the predictive capacity of HRQoL in evaluating mortality risk among older people in low- and middle-income countries.

Evaluating the Diagnosis of Malnutrition Based on Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) Criteria in Community-Dwelling Older Adults (Singapore Longitudinal Aging Study)

Background: A minority of studies using the GLIM criteria for malnutrition diagnosis have performed formal empirical validation. Objectives: To evaluate the concurrent and predictive validity of GLIM criteria with and without prior screening among community-dwelling older adults in Singapore. Method: In the Singapore Longitudinal Aging Study (SLAS-2, n = 2477), malnutrition was diagnosed using single-step and two-step GLIM procedures using the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA-SF) and Elderly Nutritional Index for Geriatric Malnutrition Assessment (ENIGMA) for initial screening. Criterion validity was evaluated using MNA-Full Form (MNA-FF) as reference malnutrition diagnosis. Prognostic validity was evaluated using logistic and Cox regression analyses with respect to impaired quality of life (QoL) and 10-year mortality. Results: GLIM malnutrition with and without MNA-SF or ENIGMA screening showed significant associations with known clinical correlates; single-step GLIM malnutrition: sensitivity = 80%, specificity = 83%; two-step MNA-SF-GLIM malnutrition: sensitivity = 80%, specificity = 85%; two-step ENIGMA-GLIM malnutrition: sensitivity = 74%, specificity = 88%; positive predictive values of around 20% and negative predictive values above 98%. Cohen’s kappa values of agreement were uniformly low (0.26 to 0.32). All showed significant associations with about 50% increased odds of impaired QoL and 10-year mortality, adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, education levels, and housing type, with the ENIGMA-GLIM malnutrition showing the highest risk estimates. Compared to MNA-FF malnutrition prevalence of 4.1%, GLIM-based malnutrition increased prevalence (14.6% to 19.7%) estimates. Conclusions: The GLIM criteria showed good construct and criterion validity. It increased the number of individuals diagnosed with malnutrition. The agreement between diagnoses of malnutrition was low. Diagnostic and prognostic accuracy vary with the screening instrument used. Early identification of malnutrition using appropriate tools can provide opportunities to delay or prevent the risk of important adverse outcomes such as impaired QoL and mortality.

Social Pain Minimization Mediates Discrimination’s Effect on Sleep Health

ABSTRACT Objective Discrimination disrupts sleep and contributes to race-based health inequities for Black Americans, but less is known about the psychological mechanisms underlying this relation. The current work tests whether emotion invalidation, termed Social Pain Minimization (SPM), mediates discrimination’s negative effects on sleep quality. We focus on the experiences of Black Americans because of racism’s disproportionate effect on the health outcomes of Black individuals in the U.S. Methods Four studies with cross-sectional (Studies 1a-1b) and cross-lagged panel designs (Studies 2–3; N total = 1,176) were used. Discrimination and SPM were assessed with established measures and self-reported sleep quality was assessed with three different operationalizations including the short form Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Sleep-Related Impairment (SRI) subscale and composites of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Results Cross-sectional (Studies 1a-1b) and longitudinal mediation analyses (Studies 2–3) indicated discrimination’s negative effect on sleep quality partially operated through SPM (Study 1a, 95% CI = [−.24, −.016]); Study 1b, 95% CI = [−.22, −.03]; Study 2, 95% CI = [−.268, −.007]]; Study 3, 95% CI = [−0.043, −.002]). Conclusion Beyond its direct negative effect on sleep, discrimination also operates through SPM to reduce sleep quality. Emotion invalidation stemming from discrimination damages sleep.

The role of mindfulness and cognitive fusion in predicting self-compassion among patients with schizophrenia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe exact connection between mindfulness, psychological flexibility, and severity of symptoms within schizophrenia spectrum disorders is mostly undefined and requires additional exploration. This study aimed to determine whether mindfulness, cognitive fusion, and symptom severity predict self-compassion among patients with schizophrenia.MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive research design was undertaken within the psychiatric in-patient department of Mansoura University Hospitals, situated in El-Mansoura, the administrative centre of Dakahlia governorate in the Delta area, Egypt. A total of 100 patients with schizophrenia participated in the study. Data were collected from October 2023 to January 2024 by using various tools: A socio-demographic questionnaire and clinical data sheet, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), The Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (CFQ), and The Self-Compassion Scale – Short Form (SCS-SF).ResultsThe findings show that mindfulness significantly impacts self-compassion among patients with schizophrenia. The results show that mindfulness significantly and positively impacts self-compassion, and cognitive fusion significantly and negatively impacts self-compassion. However, symptom severity did not significantly impact self-compassion (B = -0.02, t = -0.56, p = 0.57).ConclusionThe study concluded that people with schizophrenia need to be aware of their inner experience of negative feelings and thoughts at the moment and accept them. Thus, ACT, mindfulness-based, and compassion-based interventions may improve patients’ cognitive fusion, mindfulness, psychological flexibility, and self-compassion.

Uncovering the alterations in extrinsic foot muscle mechanical properties and foot posture in fibromyalgia: a case-control study.

The aim of the study was to evaluate foot posture and the mechanical properties of extrinsic foot muscles in fibromyalgia. Patients with fibromyalgia (n = 86) and age- and gender-matched controls (n = 41) were included in the study. Foot Posture Index (FPI), Beighton and Brighton criteria were used to evaluate static foot posture, joint hypermobility, and benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS), respectively. Tonus, elasticity, and stiffness of the extrinsic foot muscles including gastrocnemius medialis, tibialis anterior, and peroneus longus were measured by the MyotonPRO® device. Foot function, quality of life, and physical activity level were assessed by the Foot Function Index (FFI), Short Form-36 (SF-36), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), respectively. The frequency of abnormal foot posture in the fibromyalgia and control groups was 68.6% versus 39%, respectively; and neutral foot posture was approximately twice as prevalent in the control group compared to the fibromyalgia group (p = 0.006). Pronated foot posture was the most common abnormality in fibromyalgia (61.6%) and observed in 85.5% of the patients with joint hypermobility and in 87.1% of those meeting BJHS criteria. The elasticity of peroneus longus at rest and the elasticity of tibialis anterior in the standing position were significantly different between the fibromyalgia group and the control group [1.08 (0.22) vs. 1.02 (0.25), p = 0.037 and 0.92 (0.29) vs. 0.87 (0.24), p = 0.011, respectively]. Regarding the fibromyalgia group, no difference was detected among foot posture groups in terms of myotonometric data. Pronation foot posture is common in fibromyalgia with a much higher frequency in fibromyalgia patients with hypermobility. In daily clinical practice for fibromyalgia, particular attention should be given to foot alignment.

Development and Validation of the Short Form (JAEN-10) of the Joint Assessment of Equilibrium and Neuromotor Status Scale (JAEN-20)

Objectives: The objective of this study was to develop and validate the short version of The Joint Assessment of Equilibrium and Neuromotor Status Scale (JAEN scale) for use in women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) to make the balance disorder measurement process more efficient. Methods: A cross-sectional observational validation study was conducted. Fifty-six women with FMS and forty-four healthy controls were included. Certain items from the original tool were selected with the aim of (1) improving internal consistency by reducing item redundancy and (2) obtaining a diagnostic capacity with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) greater than 0.70 for discriminating FMS patients and fallers. The internal consistency, factorial validity, concurrent validity and diagnostic capacity of the new tool were analyzed. Results: Factorial analysis showed a two-factor structure that explained 72% of the variance. Cronbach alpha coefficients of 0.904 were obtained for the total score of the JAEN-10 items. Concurrent validity analysis showed strong correlations of the JAEN-10 with other instruments that measured quality of life, postural balance or disability related to dizziness. The score of the JAEN-10 items showed an AUC of 0.858 with a sensitivity of 64.29 and a specificity of 95.45 for discriminating between FMS and healthy controls, and an AUC of 0.835 with a sensitivity of 90.48 and a specificity of 67.24 for discriminating between fallers and non-fallers. Conclusions: The 10-item JAEN scale is a valid instrument for discriminating between subjects with or without FMS and between fallers and non-fallers. Its psychometric properties are good and are similar to those of the original 20-item scale. Moreover, it is quicker to complete, which may be relevant for subjects with a tendency to experience fatigue.

Comparison between patients rehabilitated with full-arch fixed implant-supported prostheses and complete denture regarding well-being, self-esteem and quality of life

Objective: To evaluate and compare satisfaction and OHRQoL in patients using complete dentures or full-arch fixed implant-supported prostheses. Material and Methods: 200 patients were divided into two groups: 1) Test group (TG): patients rehabilitated with lower full-arch fixed implant-supported prosthesis; and 2) Control group - (CG): patients using complete dentures. Patients had Oral Health-related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) assessed through 4 validated questionnaires: 1) Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14); 2) Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSS); 3) Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (OQLQ); and 4) Short Form Health Survey (SF-8). Statistical analysis was done by using the Wilcoxon test, considering a level of significance of 5%. Results: The results demonstrated that the TG presented better results (p&lt;0.001) than the CG in relation to OHIP-14 (9.0±2.36 and 21.0+3.17, respectively), including functional limitation, physical pain, physical and psychological disability, and social and physical disability. Moreover, TG presents better outcomes than CG for RSS (35.0+2.31 and 31.0+2.31, respectively) and OQLQ (16.0+3.19 and 27.5+3.22, respectively), but without difference (p = 0.79) for SF-8 (83.1+6.64 and 83.1+8.16, respectively). Conclusion: Patients with lower full-arch fixed implant-supported prostheses, compared to patients using complete dentures, present a better perception regarding their general well-being, higher self-esteem and quality of life.

Study of the Psychological Condition of Students Living in Border Conflict Regions

Since the 1990s, the conflicts and destructive processes that began in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have remained a major crisis for the population of Georgia. For nearly 30 years, the populations of both regions, governed by powerful Russian influence and de facto authorities, have been isolated from the rest of Georgia. The lack of social and intensive interactions, limited communication, and ideological confrontations have further distanced Georgians, Abkhazians, and Ossetians from one another. Under conditions of constant fear, socio-economic hardship, and restricted mobility, protecting the rights of students living in border and conflict regions, ensuring access to essential services, and addressing their mental health remain significant challenges for Georgian society. Students are a crucial part of society who can not only participate in processes of change and development but also become initiators of transformative processes. Given that mental health is linked to an individual’s psychosocial and physical well-being, studying students' mental health is important not only in terms of their knowledge and skills but also in terms of assessing their psychological condition and providing appropriate responses. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the psychological condition of students living in border conflict regions. To achieve this goal, the research utilized instruments adapted for the Georgian population, including the Death Anxiety Scale (DAS), Life Orientation Test–Revised (LOT-R), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and PROMIS Emotional Distress—Anxiety—Short Form. By employing these tools, it became possible to analyze the mental health challenges faced by students in border conflict regions and identify differences in their psychological conditions based on specific characteristics.