Short Form Research Articles

Effect of aerobic and resistive exercise on lipid profile and quality of life in overweight breastfeeding women: A randomized controlled trial.

Breastfeeding provides benefits for both mothers and babies. However, many women experience postpartum weight gain, unfavorable lipid profiles, and other postpartum problems that can adversely impact their overall quality of life (QoL). To examine the effect of adding aerobic and resistive exercise to faradic stimulation and nutritional counseling on lipid profile and QoL in overweight breastfeeding women. Fifty-four breastfeeding women were randomly allocated into two equally sized groups. Group A underwent abdominal faradic stimulation along with nutritional counseling for 12weeks, whereas Group B received identical faradic stimulation and nutritional counseling and engaged in a combined aerobic and resistive exercise program for the same duration. Before and after treatment, the following anthropometric measurements were evaluated: body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (W/H); lipid profile analysis, such as high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides (TG); and the Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36). All outcome measures demonstrated significant improvements within the two groups (p<0.05). Group B showed more significant reductions in BMI, W/H ratio, and LDL, along with greater significant increases in the SF-36 domain scores for physical functioning, physical health problems, bodily pain, general health, energy/fatigue, social activity, mental health, and the total SF-36 score (p<0.05) compared to group A post-treatment. However, there were no significant differences in HDL, TG, and the score of the emotional wellbeing domain of the SF-36 between the groups after treatment (p>0.05). 12-week aerobic and resistive exercise is effective in reducing the BMI, W/H ratio, and LDL levels and enhancing the QoL in overweight breastfeeding women.

Complicated Pleural Infection is Associated With Prolonged Recovery and Reduced Functional Ability.

Management of complicated pleural infections (CPIs) had historically been surgical; however, following the publication of the second multicenter intrapleural sepsis trial (MIST-2), combination tissue plasminogen (tPA) and dornase (DNase) offers a less invasive and effective treatment. Our aim was to assess the quality of life (QOL) and functional ability of patients' recovery from a CPI managed with either intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy (IPFT) or surgery. We identified 565 patients managed for a CPI between January 1, 2013 and March 31, 2018. There were 460 patients eligible for contact, attempted through 2 phone calls and one mailer. Two questionnaires were administered: the Short Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36) and a functional ability questionnaire. Contact was made in 35% (159/460) of patients, and 57% (90/159) completed the survey. Patients had lower QOL scores compared to average US citizens; those managed with surgery had higher scores in physical functioning (surgery: 80, IPFT: 70, P=0.040) but lower pain scores (surgery: 58, IPFT: 68, P=0.045). Of 52 patients who returned to work, 48% (25) reported an impact on their work effectiveness during recovery, similarly between management strategies (IPFT: 50%, 13/26 vs. surgery: 46%, 12/26; P=0.781). Patients with a CPI had a lower QOL compared with average US citizens. Surgically managed patients reported improved physical functioning but worse pain compared with patients managed with IPFT. Patients returned to work within 4 weeks of discharge, and nearly half reported their ability to work effectively was impacted by their recovery. With further research into recovery timelines, patients may be appropriately counselled for expectations.

MCID achievement in staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty: Are both joints created equal?

BackgroundA notable portion of unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients undergo arthroplasty of the contralateral knee. The aims of this study were to describe the Minimal Clinically Important Difference for Improvement (MCID-I) and Worsening (MCID-W) in staged bilateral TKAs (BTKAs) and identify factors associated with these outcomes. MethodsPatients with staged BTKA were retrospectively reviewed. Demographics, surgery details, and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Physical Function Short Form 10a (PROMIS PF10a) were collected. MCID-I and MCID-W were defined for PROMIS PF10a. Patients were stratified into nine groups based on the MCID achievement of the first and second TKA: (A) MCID-I, MCID- I, (B) MCID-I, Neutral, (C) MCID-I, MCID-W, (D) Neutral, MCID-I, (E) Neutral, Neutral, (F) Neutral, MCID-W, (G) MCID- W, MCID-I, (H) MCID-W, Neutral, (I) MCID-W, MCID-W. Neutral patients did not achieve either MCID-I or MCID-W. ResultsThe final cohort consisted of 59 staged BTKA patients. In patients who achieved MCID-I in the first TKA, 39.1% achieved MCID-I again in the second TKA (A), 39.1% were neutral (B), and 21.7% achieved MCID-W (C) in the second TKA. However, 77.8% of those who achieved MCID-W in the first joint (n = 9) went on to achieve MCID-I (G) in the second TKA. Those who achieved MCID-I after both TKAs (A) had a longer staged interval than those who achieved first MCID-I, then MCID-W (C) (15 months vs 8 months, P = 0.0113). ConclusionIn staged BTKA, MCID achievement of the first TKA may not be associated with the outcome of the second TKA.

Association of Abdominal Aortic Calcification and Clinical Outcomes in LDH Patients Treated with Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy.

To determine any significant associations between abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) and clinical manifestations of pain symptoms following endoscopic lumbar discectomy. Patients sequentially presenting with a history of unilateral radiculopathy with or without back pain, and with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-confirmed diagnosis of posterolateral disc herniation between August 2021 and December 2023 were eligible for inclusion in the study. All patients underwent endoscopic discectomy at our center during the study period. AAC stages were classified based on the Kauppila classification system using lateral lumbar radiographs. Between August 2021 and December 2023 a total of 120 patients were included in the study for analysis, of whom 82 (68.3%) exhibited mild AAC and 38 (31.7%) had moderate-severe AAC. Analyses using the multivariate linear regression model revealed a significant correlation between AAC comorbidity and postoperative clinical outcomes. At 1 year post-surgery, the mean change in leg pain following endoscopic lumbar discectomy was significantly less for patients with moderate-severe AAC (5.0 points) than for patients with mild ACC (p < 0.001). Even after adjusting for relevant confounders, this difference remained significant. Similar results were also observed in the postoperative improvement of back pain, the Oswestry Disability Index score, and the physical functioning, role physical, and bodily pain components of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire. There was no significant difference in the rate of repeat surgery or post-surgical new-onset back pain between patients with different levels of severity of AAC at 1 year post-surgery. There is a significant association between the severity of AAC and clinical outcomes among patients with lumbar disk herniation who underwent endoscopic lumbar discectomy. AAC may serve as a prognostic factor in predicting surgical outcomes and guiding management strategies for patients with lumbar disk herniation following endoscopic lumbar discectomy.

Quality of life and psychological distress in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis and transplantation

BACKGROUND Among diverse profound impacts on patients’ quality of life (QoL), end-stage renal disease (ESRD) frequently results in increased levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Renal replacement therapies such as hemodialysis (HD) and transplantation (TX) are intended to enhance QoL, although their ability to alleviate psychological distress remains uncertain. This research posits the existence of a significant correlation between negative emotional states and QoL among ESRD patients, with varying effects observed in HD and TX patients. AIM To examine the relationship between QoL and negative emotional states (depression, anxiety, and stress) and predicted QoL in various end-stage renal replacement therapy patients with ESRD. METHODS This cross-sectional study included HD or TX patients in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. The 36-item Short Form Survey and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) was used for data collection, and correlation and regression analyses were performed. RESULTS The HD and TX transplantation groups showed statistically significant inverse relationships between QoL and DASS scores. HD patients with high anxiety levels and less education scored low on the physical component summary (PCS). In addition, the results of the mental component summary (MCS) were associated with reduced depression. Compared with older transplant patients, TX patients’ PCS scores were lower, and depression, stress, and negative working conditions were highly correlated with MCS scores. CONCLUSION The findings of this study revealed notable connections between well-being and mental turmoil experienced by individuals undergoing HD and TX. The PCS of HD patients is affected by heightened levels of anxiety and lower educational attainment, while the MCS of transplant patients is influenced by advancing age and elevated stress levels. These insights will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of patient support.

Mid- to long-term outcome of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty as revision procedure for failed hemiarthroplasty after proximal humerus fracture

BackgroundInsufficient tuberosity healing is the most common reason for poor outcome after treatment of proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) using hemiarthroplasty (HA). In these cases, revision to reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) can improve function and reduce pain in the short term, however, long-term results remain scarce. Aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological mid- to long-term results in patients with a revision RTSA after failed HA for PHF.MethodsIn this retrospective study all patients that received a revision to RTSA after failed fracture HA between 2006 and 2018 were included. A total of 49 shoulders in 48 patients (38 female, 10 male; mean age 82 ± 9 years) were identified in our database. A total of 20 patients (17 female, 3 male; mean age was 79 ± 9 years) were available for follow-up examination after a mean time period of approximately eight years (3–14 years) after revision surgery. At final follow-up, patients were assessed using a subjective shoulder value (SSV), range of motion (ROM), visual analogue score (VAS), the Constant Score (CS) and the 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12).ResultsAt final follow-up, mean CS was 55 ± 19 (19–91), VAS averaged 3 ± 3 (0–8) and mean SSV was 61 ± 18% (18–90%). Mean SF-12 was 44 (28–57) with a mean physical component summary (PCS) of 38 (21–56) and a mean mental component summary (MCS) of 51 (29–67). On average active forward flexion (FF) was 104° (10–170°), active abduction (ABD) was 101° (50–170°), active external rotation (ER) was 19° (10–30°) and active internal rotation (IR) of the lumbosacral transition was reached. Three patients presented with a periprosthetic humeral fracture after RTSA implantation and underwent a reoperation (15%) during follow-up period.ConclusionsRevision RTSA results in promising clinical results in patients after initial failed HA after PHF. A complication and reoperation rate of 15% is tolerable in consideration of satisfactory functional and psychological outcome.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered.

Correlates of the Short Form Love Attitudes Scale among Portuguese People

Correlates of the Short Form Love Attitudes Scale among Portuguese People

Factors Associated with Advance Care Planning Engagement Among Community‐Dwelling Older Adults: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACTAimTo explore the associations between depression, anxiety, decisional conflict and advance care planning engagement and the potential mediating role of decisional conflict in the associations between depression, anxiety and advance care planning among community‐dwelling older adults.DesignA cross‐sectional study was conducted with 262 community‐dwelling older Australians across metropolitan, regional and rural communities between August and October 2022.MethodsValidated self‐reported questions were used to collect data on anxiety, depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), decisional conflict (Decisional Conflict Scale), advance care planning engagement (Advance Care Planning Engagement Survey) and covariates (demographic characteristics, health literacy [Health Literacy Screening Questions]), overall health status (Short form 36). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate association analysis, general linear modelling and path analysis.ResultsAnxiety and decisional conflict were directly associated with advance care planning engagement even after controlling for potential effects of demographic characteristics, health literacy and overall health status. The model, including age, gender, country of birth, language spoken at home, education, overall health status, anxiety, depression, decisional conflict and interaction between anxiety and decisional conflict, explained 24.3% of the variance in their advance care planning engagement. Decisional conflict mediated the association between anxiety and advance care planning engagement.ConclusionIncreased anxiety and decisional conflict were associated with reduced advance care planning engagement directly, even among community‐dwelling older adults with higher levels of education and health literacy. Increased anxiety was associated with reduced advance care planning engagement indirectly via increased decisional conflict. Healthcare professionals should assess community‐dwelling older adults' anxiety and implement interventions to manage their anxiety and decisional conflict, as these may facilitate their engagement in advance care planning.ImpactUnderstanding factors associated with advance care planning engagement among community‐dwelling older adults may inform strategies facilitating their future engagement in advance care planning. Findings from this study may be used as evidence for future implementation to facilitate the engagement of community‐dwelling older adults in advance care planning.Reporting MethodThe STROBE statement checklist was used as a guide to writing the manuscript.Patient or Public ContributionThe study was advertised publicly through social media (e.g. Twitter and Facebook) and newsletters (e.g. Advance Care Planning Australia, Centre for Volunteering, Palliative Care Australia and a large home care service provider with approximately 7000 older clients receiving support or services) to recruit participants. People aged 65 years and older living independently in the Australian community who could communicate in English were invited to participate and answer the questionnaire.

Clinical efficacy of unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression in the treatment of adjacent segment disease after lumbar fusion

ObjectiveTo assess the clinical impact of unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (ULBD) in managing patients with adjacent vertebrae following lumbar fusion.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 21 patients, with a mean age of 67.4 years, who underwent ULBD for adjacent vertebra disease at our department from January 2021 to November 2023. We reviewed demographic data, surgical techniques, imaging studies, and patient-reported outcomes. The study compared Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores, Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores, Short Form-36 (SF-36) scores, and imaging outcomes before surgery, immediately post-surgery, and at 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months post-surgery.ResultsEvaluation of 21 patients with adjacent segment disease (ASD) (13 males, 8 females; mean age 67.42 years) was performed with follow-ups at various intervals post-surgery. Postoperative VAS, NRS, JOA, and SF-36 scores showed significant improvements compared to preoperative scores. Immediately after surgery, there were significant improvements in NRS score (2.76 ± 0.70 vs. 3.71 ± 0.85, P &amp;lt; 0.05) and JOA score (15.38 ± 1.02 vs. 9.29 ± 1.01, P &amp;lt; 0.05) compared to preoperative scores. Similarly, at 12 months post-surgery, significant improvements were observed in NRS score (1.52 ± 0.51 vs. 3.71 ± 0.85, P &amp;lt; 0.05) and JOA score (25.0 ± 1.10 vs. 9.29 ± 1.01, P &amp;lt; 0.05) compared to preoperative scores. The clinical satisfaction rate was 95.0% among all patients, with postoperative imaging examinations revealing a significant decompression effect. No complications were reported among the surgical patients.ConclusionsThis study suggests that endoscopic ULBD can be a safe and effective technique for managing symptomatic ASD, providing satisfactory clinical outcomes for patients with ASD. Endoscopic ULBD may serve as an alternative treatment option for ASD with lumbar stenosis.

Breastfeeding mothers' self-confidence: A mixed-method study

Objective: To establish the association of the mother's breastfeeding self-efficacy with infant feeding in the first six months of the child's life and identify the mothers’ perception of their confidence to breastfeed. Background: Breastfeeding is a multi-determined process. Many factors contribute to a mother’s ability to exclusively breastfeed until a child reaches six months of age. Among these factors is a mother’s confidence in her abilities to breastfeed her baby, referred to as breastfeeding self-efficacy. Thus, self-efficacy for breastfeeding could be an essential predictor of reducing the risk of early weaning. Study design and methods: This is a mixed-method sequential explanatory study. The short form of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale was used to determine the level of the mothers' confidence. 158 mothers were surveyed during their postpartum hospital stay, and 128 were included in a follow-up six months after delivery. Additionally, 22 participants were randomly selected for an in-depth interview (qualitative stage). Data were analysed using inferential statistics and thematic content analysis. Results: High levels of breastfeeding efficacy were identified during the hospitalisation and after discharge among all participants. Exclusive breastfeeding was practised among 45.31% of mothers six months after delivery. Return to work was a key factor contributing to early weaning. Family and health professional support during the breastfeeding process were associated as crucial for the duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Discussion: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after delivery involves various factors, such as the mother’s confidence in her breastfeeding skills and the specific circumstances she faces while breastfeeding. Thus, through the mixed qualitative and quantitative approaches, it was possible to identify the convergence of self-efficacy scores and the breastfeeding mothers' perception of their confidence and intention to maintain exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusion: High self-efficacy to breastfeed alone was not enough to maintain exclusive breastfeeding. It is necessary to combine self-efficacy and family or health service support and guidance to clarify the mother's doubts about potential difficulties that may appear throughout the breastfeeding process, the maintenance of lactation when she plans to return to work, and the breastfeeding technique. Implication for practice: Applying the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale associated with the breastfeeding mothers' interview during the prenatal and perinatal period facilitates early identification of mothers at risk for early weaning and helps nurses in planning interventions to support the breastfeeding mother and her child in favour of exclusive breastfeeding duration. What is already known about the topic? Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is recommended for the first six months of a child's life; however, many mothers do not follow this recommendation due to multiple barriers such as mental health issues (i.e., postpartum depression or anxiety), educational gaps, physical discomfort like sore nipples, engorgement, return to work, and lack of support. Breastfeeding self-efficacy has been associated with the duration of breastfeeding. What this paper adds Breastfeeding mothers' self-efficacy is essential for stimulating maintenance. Questions 3 (I always feed my baby without using powdered milk as a supplement) and 11 (I always breastfeed my baby on one breast and then switch to the other) of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (short form) predicted early weaning risk. Planning nursing care intervention for breastfeeding mothers in their follow-up after birth should include assessing their breastfeeding self-efficacy and factors that could contribute to early weaning, such as returning to work and the lack of a support network.

The Association of Cognitive Impairment and Depression with Malnutrition among Vulnerable, Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Large Cross-Sectional Study

(1) Background: Mental health issues in older adults, particularly cognitive impairment and depression, can affect nutritional status. This study investigates the prevalence of malnutrition among community-dwelling older adults at risk of social exclusion and dependency in Lebanon and its association with cognitive impairment and depression. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study used secondary data from the TEC-MED project, involving 1410 older adults aged 60 and above in Beirut. Nutritional status was assessed with the Mini Nutritional Assessment _Short Form (MNA_SF), cognitive impairment with the AD8 Dementia Screening Interview, and depression with the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). (3) Results: 87.2% of participants were at risk of malnutrition, and 2.5% were malnourished. Cognitive impairment was present in 82.2% of the sample and 45% experienced moderate to severe depression. Malnourished individuals had significantly higher rates of cognitive impairment (96.7% vs. 57.8%) and depression (85.7% vs. 23.2%). Significant associations were found between the risk of malnutrition, decreased food intake, cognitive impairment, and depression; however, no significant association was found with BMI. Logistic regression analysis indicated that older age, cognitive impairment, and depression were significant predictors of malnutrition, while having a caregiver was protective. (4) Conclusions: The high prevalence of risk of malnutrition among vulnerable older adults with cognitive impairment and depression underscores the need for policies integrating nutritional screening into routine health check-ups for older adults.

Patient-reported outcomes in total hip arthroplasty for patients with anatomically contoured femoral heads

Introduction: Iliopsoas tendinitis after total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become more prevalent with the increased use of large-diameter femoral heads impinging on native surrounding tissues. Anatomically contoured heads (ACH) are soft-tissue-friendly femoral heads created to minimise this issue. This retrospective study assesses iliopsoas tendinitis prevalence and re-operations in primary THAs with ACH, while determining the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) achievement and improvement with 5 patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 53 ACHs from January 2020 to July 2023. Patients who completed Hip Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score–Physical Function Short Form (HOOS-PS), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function Short Form 10a (PF SF-10a), PROMIS Global Health (GH)-Mental, or PROMIS GH-Physical, and pain score questionnaires were identified. PROM scores were collected preoperatively and at 3-month and 1-year postoperative intervals. Comparisons using chi-square and ANOVA tests were applied. Results: The rates of achieving MCID and improvement within the first year were (69.2 vs. 76.9%) for PROMIS GH-Physical, (38.5 vs. 46.2%) for PROMIS GH-Mental, (71.4 vs. 92.9%) for HOOS-PS, (80.0 vs. 80.0%) for PROMIS PF SF-10a, and (74.0 vs. 91.7%) for pain scores. PROM scores at 3 months and 1 year significantly varied across all categories, except for PROMIS GH-Mental. No patients had iliopsoas tendinitis, dislocations, or re-operations. Discussion: ACH implants may alleviate anterior hip pain, while maintaining comparable strength and bio-compatibility to conventional femoral heads. This study underscores the early safety and potential of ACH implants in reducing iliopsoas tendinitis and impingement.

Mediating effect of coping strategy and psychological status between illness perception and quality of life among patients with atrial fibrillation: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThis study investigated the mediating effects of coping strategies and psychological status on the relationship between illness perception and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).MethodsThis cross-sectional study enrolled 178 patients with AF who were admitted to a tertiary hospital in Beijing City in mainland from March 2020 and June 2022. Assessments were made for HRQoL using the Short Form Health Survey depressive symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, anxiety using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), illness perception using the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ), AF symptoms using the Atrial Fibrillation Severity Scale (AFSS), and coping strategies using the Brief-COPE Scale.ResultsSignificant correlations were observed between illness perception, emotional variables, coping strategies, and HRQoL scores. The regression analysis found that BIPQ, GAD, Maladaptive coping and Problem-focused coping are significant predictors of PCS (F = 20.906, R2 = 0.326, p < 0.01) and MCS (F = 31.24, R2 = 0.419, p < 0.01). Bootstrap samples were used to conduct mediation analysis. The indirect effects of GAD-7 and Problem-focused coping (PC) on the impact of BIPQ on QoL were significant. GAD accounted for 13.2–19.3% of the variance in the total effect across different models, while PC accounted for 22.1–25.8%. The results also indicated a significant chain effect in the illness percepitong-anxiety-coping style-QoL model, which can explain 4.3–10.2% of the total effect, respectively.ConclusionsThe perception of illness significantly influenced HRQoL in patients with AF, as mediated by emotional symptoms and coping strategies. This highlights the importance of anxiety and problem-focused coping mechanisms. These findings underscore the need for a holistic, patient-centered approach to AF management that incorporates emotional well-being and coping strategies.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05974098). The date of registration: 1 August 2023.

Comparison of ustekinumab, infliximab and combination therapy in moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis – a study protocol of a randomized, multicenter, head-to-head COMBO-UC trial

BackgroundUlcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with a complex etiology that affects the large intestine. Characterized by chronic, bloody diarrhea, UC can lead to severe complications, including an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Despite advancements in conservative treatment, including biologics like anti-TNF agents and ustekinumab (UST), many patients do not achieve full remission. Dual targeted therapy (DTT) combining infliximab (IFX) and UST is a promising approach to improve treatment outcomes.MethodsThis prospective, randomized, multicenter, head-to-head controlled trial will evaluate the efficacy and safety of UST, IFX, and combination therapy (UST + IFX) in 172 patients with moderate to severe active UC across eight gastroenterology centers in Poland. The study includes a 14–16 week remission induction period followed by a 52-week maintenance phase. Patients will be randomly assigned to one of three treatment arms: IFX monotherapy, UST monotherapy, or IFX + UST combination therapy. Primary endpoint is clinical and endoscopic remission post-induction. Secondary endpoints include clinical response, biochemical remission, histological remission, and quality of life assessments using the Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Questionnaire and 36-Item Short Form Survey. Safety will be monitored through adverse event and serious adverse event reporting.DiscussionThis trial aims to determine whether combining IFX and UST can achieve higher remission rates and better long-term outcomes compared to monotherapy. The results could provide crucial insights into the optimal use of biologic agents in UC treatment, potentially establishing DTT as a standard therapy. The study’s design, including extensive follow-up and robust endpoint measures, will contribute to understanding the therapeutic potential and safety profile of this combination therapy.

Social cognition and healthy aging: Cross-sectional associations of emotion perception, theory of mind, and emotional empathy

Abstract Objective: Older adults are identified to have reduced social cognitive performance compared to younger adults. However, few studies have examined age-associations throughout later life to determine whether these reductions continue with advancing age. Method: This study assesses cross-sectional associations of emotion perception, cognitive and affective theory of mind (ToM), and emotional empathy in a healthy sample of 157 adults aged 50–89 years (M = 65.31, SD = 9.00, 68% female sex). Emotion perception, cognitive ToM, and affective ToM were measured using The Awareness of Social Inference Test Short Form (TASIT-S), while affective ToM was also measured using Reading the Mind in the Eyes Revised (RME-R). Emotional empathy was measured using the Empathy Quotient. Results: Multiple regression analyses, adjusting for multiple comparisons, revealed a moderate negative association between age and emotion perception for all emotions combined, as well as for sad and revolted expressions, but not happy, neutral, anxious, or angry expressions. Age had a negative, moderate association with first-order cognitive, second-order cognitive, and affective ToM measured using TASIT-S, but not RME-R. Age was not significantly associated with emotional empathy. Conclusions: This study contributes to the limited understanding of age-related associations of social cognitive performance throughout later life. This knowledge can inform future research examining the clinical utility of including social cognitive measures in neuropsychological screening and diagnostic tools for later-life neurological disorders.

College Students’ Preference and Information Comprehension of Different Forms of Diabetes Education Materials Under Different Reading Scenarios

ABSTRACT Background There is a lack of research on diabetes education for healthy college students. Purpose To examine the effect of three different forms of diabetes education materials on college students’ information comprehension under focused and fragmented reading scenarios. Methods A total of 300 college students divided into six groups were enrolled in this study with a response rate of 91.45%, with each group representing different reading scenarios with different forms of education materials (text, icon, and illustration). A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the understanding (information perception and memory retention) of participants. Results There was similar influence of different forms of education materials on college students’ perception and memory retention in the context of focused reading. In contrast, under the fragmented reading scenario, materials with illustrations were the most effective. Discussion The form of education materials is crucial for information comprehension of college students in the scenario of fragmented reading rather than focused reading. Translation to Health Education Practice It is necessary to design visually appealing health education materials to promote diabetes education among college students.

Medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy is a viable option in young patients with advanced arthritis in a long-term follow-up.

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) as a treatment option for advanced medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (OA) Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) III and IV. Patients with severe medial compartment arthritis, who underwent MOWHTO with locking plate between 2003 and 2015, were retrospectively reviewed. A locking plate for the osteotomy was utilized. Preoperative and postoperative patients' evaluation was performed using the International Knee Documentation Committee Score (IKDC), the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), the Knee Injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Short Form-12 Score (SF-12). Standardized standing whole-limb X-rays were taken to evaluate the mechanical tibiofemoral angle (mTFA) and proximal medial tibial angle (PMTA), and the severity of OA. A total of 32 patients, 35 knees (27 males, five females) of which 21 were classified as K-L Grade III and 14 as K-L Grade IV, and mean age 47.1 ± 9.17 years old, who were followed for 13.6 years (range 7-20 years), were included in the study. During the follow-up period, three knees required conversion to total knee replacement (91.5% survival rate). All clinical outcome scores (KOOS, OKS, IKDC and SF-12) showed a significant improvement compared to preoperative status (p < 0.05). Preoperative mTFA and PMTA were significantly corrected immediately after surgery and retained this improvement at the last follow-up. MOWHTO with a locking plate is an effective method to treat severe medial compartments. Clinical and radiological results are satisfactory and the survival rate is 91.5%, at a mean follow-up of 13.6 years after the procedure. Level IV.

How do emotional intelligence, resilience, and parental employment affect anxiety and depression levels among Sudanese adolescents?

BackgroundAdolescents are often sensitive to emotions and vulnerable to psychiatric issues, including suicidal tendencies. Emotional intelligence is believed to play a significant role in resilience, which acts as a protective factor for mental well-being. The study investigated the level of emotional intelligence, resilience, depression, and anxiety in Sudanese adolescents and the relationship between these factors.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among four high schools and included a total of 392 adolescents who completed a self-administered questionnaire consisting of the 30-item trait; Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire- short form (TEQ-SF), Brief Resilience Scale-6 (BRS-6) and Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4).ResultsEmotional intelligence levels were moderate to high (M = 131.53 ± SD 22.16). While resilience levels were low to normal (M = 3.20 ± SD 0.51). Levels of anxiety were present in 89% of students while levels of depression were present in 78% of students and both were positively correlated (r = 0.540). Emotional intelligence and resilience were positively correlated (r = 0.272, p < 0.0005). Also, Resilience was positively correlated with levels of anxiety (r = 0.105) and the latter had a significant negative association with academic performance (r = − 0.102). Parents' status significantly contributed to predicting resilience levels (p-value = 0.011), with an unstandardized beta coefficient of 0.368. The mothers’ unemployment (r = − 0.100) and the father’s employment (r = 0.105) were significantly linked to lower anxiety levels.ConclusionThe high prevalence of anxiety and depression levels among Sudanese adolescents is influenced by parental separation and employment. Improving students' mental health is crucial as it is linked to enhancing their academic performance. This underscores the importance of addressing mental well-being alongside educational outcomes.

A 10-week multicomponent outdoor exercise program improves hemodynamic parameters and physical fitness in cardiovascular disease adult and elderly patients

AbstractThis study aimed to assess the effects of a 10-week multicomponent outdoor exercise program on hemodynamic, physical fitness and psychological variables in subjects with CVDs. Twenty participants (12 M and 8 F; age 68.5 ± 8.6 years; BMI 28.49 ± 4.98 kg/m2) suffering from CVDs participated in this randomized controlled study and were allocated into two groups: an experimental group (EG; 6 M, 5 F) who underwent a multicomponent training (i.e., cardiorespiratory, resistance, mobility and breathing exercises; 60’, 2d·wk-1), or a wait-list control group (CG; 6 M, 3 F) who did not engage in any PA. Hemodynamic parameters were assessed through resting heart rate (RHR) and peripheral blood pressure (P-SBP/P-DBP). Physical fitness was assessed via a 30″ chair stand test (30CST), timed up and go (TUG) test, handgrip strength (HGS) test, and 2’ step test (TMST). The health status and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated with short form-12 (SF-12) and World Health Organization QoL (WHOQoL-bref), respectively. After the intervention, EG showed significant reduction in hemodynamic parameters (RHR p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.98; P-SBP p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.53; P-DBP: p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.78), physical fitness (30CST p &lt; 0.001, ES = 0.92; TUG p = 0.001, ES = 0.67; TMST p &lt; 0.05, ES = 0.79) and physical component of SF-12 (PSC-12 p &lt; 0.05, ES = 0.42) compared to CG; no significant changes were observed in HGS, QoL and mental health component of the SF-12 (p &gt; 0.05). The findings showed significant improvements in hemodynamic parameters and physical fitness suggesting the effectiveness of the multicomponent outdoor exercise program in adults and elderly with stabilized CVDs.

The association between osteoporosis and quality of life among older adults in Southern Iran: findings from the Bushehr Elderly Health Program

Background & objectiveOsteoporosis is a growing public health concern, particularly among the aging population. This study aimed to evaluate the association between osteoporosis and quality of life (QoL) in a sample of older adults.MethodsThis cross-sectional study utilized data from all the participants of Bushehr Elderly Health program (BEHP), phase 2. QoL was assessed using the 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12 Questionnaire), and participants were classified as having osteoporosis or not based on the WHO diagnostic criteria. The physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summaries of QoL were estimated. The association between osteoporosis and QoL was evaluated separately for men and women, considering various health and lifestyle factors using linear regression analysis.ResultsThe study included 2,399 participants (average age 71.27 ± 7.36 years). 1,246 were women and 1,153 were men. Osteoporosis was present in 59% of women and 23% of men. Participants with osteoporosis had significantly lower PCS scores compared to those without osteoporosis (women: 38.1 vs. 40.2, p < 0.001; men: 44.3 vs. 45.8, p: 0.002). However, there was no statistically significant difference in MCS scores. Stratified by sex, osteoporosis was significantly associated with PCS in women [β = -2.14 (-3.13, -1.15)] and men [β = -1.53 (-2.52, -0.54)]. After accounting for relevant variables, the association remained significant in women [β=-0.95 (-1.87, -0.03)], but not in men [β=-0.63 (-1.55,0.28)].ConclusionThis study highlights the significant association between osteoporosis and the physical component of QoL in both older men and women, particularly among women. Further research and interventions focusing on enhancing physical QoL in individuals with osteoporosis are warranted to promote healthier aging.