Significant Improvement In Symptoms Research Articles

Comparable Efficacy of Repeated Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Their Combination in Improvement of Cold and Hot Cognitive Functions and Amelioration of Depressive Symptoms.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of repeated transcranial direct current stimulation (rtDCS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and their combination (rtDCS-CBT) in the treatment of cognitive dysfunction, social cognition, and depressive symptoms in women diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD). A total of 40 female participants with MDD were randomly assigned to one of four groups: rtDCS, CBT, rtDCS-CBT, and a control group. The participants' depressive symptoms, executive functions, and social cognition were assessed at baseline, preintervention, postintervention, and during a 1-month follow-up. The rtDCS group received 10 sessions of anodal dorsolateral and cathodal ventromedial prefrontal cortex (2 mA for 20 minutes). The CBT group received 10 sessions of traditional CBT, whereas the combined group received CBT after the tDCS sessions. The results of the analysis of variance indicated that all intervention groups demonstrated significant improvements in depressive symptoms, cognitive dysfunction, and social cognition compared with the control group (all p < 0.001). Furthermore, the rtDCS-CBT group exhibited significantly greater reductions in depressive symptoms when compared with each intervention alone (all p < 0.001). Notably, working memory improvements were observed only in the rtDCS group ( p < 0.001). In conclusion, this study suggests that both CBT and tDCS, either individually or in combination, have a positive therapeutic impact on enhancing executive functions, theory of mind, and depressive symptoms in women with MDD.

Web-Based Mindfulness Meditation as an Adjunct to Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Public Safety Personnel: Mixed Methods Feasibility Evaluation Study.

Public safety personnel (PSP) are individuals who work to ensure the safety and security of communities (eg, correctional workers, firefighters, paramedics, and police officers). PSP have a high risk of developing mental disorders and face unique barriers to traditional mental health treatments. The PSP Wellbeing Course is a transdiagnostic, internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) course tailored to assist PSP with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The initial course outcomes are promising, but some clients report some challenges with learning skills and recommend adding additional resources. Mindfulness meditations, which help people to experience the world and their reactions to the world in open and nonjudgmental ways, may complement the existing PSP Wellbeing Course. This study aims to examine the feasibility of mindfulness meditations in iCBT tailored for PSP. Information was gathered to evaluate engagement and client experiences with mindfulness meditations, symptom change, and the relationship between mindfulness meditation use and symptom change. A mixed methods study was conducted on PSP enrolled in the PSP Wellbeing Course who were offered 5 mindfulness meditations during the program (ie, 1/lesson). Clients completed questionnaires on depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger, insomnia, resilience, and mindfulness at pretreatment and at 8 weeks; an 8-week treatment satisfaction questionnaire; and brief weekly measures of mindfulness meditation engagement. We used paired sample t tests (2-tailed) to assess changes in outcomes over time and partial correlations to assess whether mindfulness meditation use predicted outcomes at posttreatment. A total of 12 clients were interviewed about their perceptions of the mindfulness meditations, and interviews were analyzed using directed content analysis. Among the 40 clients enrolled, 27 (68%) reported using the mindfulness meditations, practicing for an average of 4.8 (SD 8.1) minutes each week. Most interviewees described the mindfulness meditations as beneficial but also reported challenges, such as discomfort while sitting with their feelings. Clients provided suggestions for better integration of mindfulness into iCBT. Overall, clients who completed the PSP Wellbeing Course with mindfulness meditations experienced statistically significant improvements in symptoms of anxiety (P=.001), depression (P=.001), PTSD (P=.001), and anger (P=.001) but not insomnia (P=.02). Clients also experienced improvements in resilience (P=.01) and mindfulness (P=.001). Self-reported time spent meditating was not associated with changes in symptoms over time. This study provides new insight into the integration of mindfulness meditations with iCBT for PSP. It demonstrates the partial feasibility of adding mindfulness meditations to iCBT, revealing that some, but not all, PSP engaged with the meditations and reported benefits. PSP reported using the mindfulness meditations inconsistently and described challenges with the meditations. Improvements can be made to better integrate mindfulness meditation into iCBT, including offering mindfulness meditation as an optional resource, providing more psychoeducation on managing challenges, and offering shorter meditations.

Comparing prostatic artery embolization to surgical and minimally invasive procedures for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundTo summarize current evidence to report a comparative systematic review and meta-analysis of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) with transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and open simple prostatectomy (OSP) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).MethodsA systematic literature search was performed to identify studies published from inception until August 2021. The search terms used were (prostate embolization OR prostatic embolization) AND (prostatic hyperplasia OR prostatic obstruction) as well as the abbreviations of PAE and BPH. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies—of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool for observational studies. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.4.ResultsSeven studies were included with 810 patients: five RCTs and one observational study compared PAE with TURP, and one observational study compared PAE with OSP. The included studies had considerable risk of bias concerns. TURP and OSP were associated with more statistically significant improvements in urodynamic measures and BPH symptoms compared to PAE. However, PAE seems to significantly improve erectile dysfunction compared to OSP and improve other outcome measures compared to TURP, although not significantly. PAE appeared to reduce adverse events and report more minor complications compared with TURP and OSP, but it is unclear whether PAE is more effective in the long-term.ConclusionPAE is an emerging treatment option for patients with symptomatic BPH who cannot undergo surgery or have undergone failed medical therapy. Overall, PAE groups reported fewer adverse events. Future ongoing and longer-term studies are needed to provide better insight into the benefit of PAE compared to other treatment options.

Promoting Resilience to Improve Disordered Eating (PRIDE): A case series of an eating disorder treatment for sexual minority individuals.

Despite the increased risk for eating disorders (EDs) among sexual minority (SM) individuals, no ED treatments exist specifically for this population. SM stress and appearance-based pressures may initiate and/or maintain ED symptoms in SM individuals; thus, incorporating strategies to reduce SM stressors into existing treatments may help address SM individuals' increased ED risk. This mixed-methods study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of Promoting Resilience to Improve Disordered Eating (PRIDE)-a novel ED treatment for SM individuals. N = 14 SM individuals with an ED diagnosis received 14 weekly sessions integrating Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for EDs (CBT-E) with techniques and principles of SM-affirmative CBT developed to address SM stressors. Participants completed qualitative interviews and assessments of ED symptoms and SM stress reactions at baseline (pretreatment), posttreatment, and 1-month follow-up. Supporting feasibility, 12 of the 14 (85.7%) enrolled participants completed treatment, and qualitative and quantitative data supported PRIDE's acceptability (quantitative rating = 3.73/4). By 1-month follow-up, 75% of the sample was fully remitted from an ED diagnosis. Preliminary efficacy results suggested large and significant improvements in ED symptoms, clinical impairment, and body dissatisfaction, significant medium-large improvements in internalized stigma and nonsignificant small-medium effects of sexual orientation concealment. Initial results support the feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy of PRIDE, an ED treatment developed to address SM stressors. Future research should evaluate PRIDE in a larger sample, compare it to an active control condition, and explore whether reductions in SM stress reactions explain reductions in ED symptoms. This study evaluated a treatment for SM individuals with EDs that integrated empirically supported ED treatment with SM-affirmative treatment in a case series. Results support that this treatment was well-accepted by participants and was associated with improvements in ED symptoms and minority stress outcomes.

UPADACITINIB RESOLVES DIARRHEA AND FECAL CALPROTECTIN ABNORMALITIES IN BUDESONIDE-DEPENDENT MICROSCOPIC COLITIS

Abstract BACKGROUND Current American Gastroenterological Association guidelines are devoid of recommendations for steroid and biologic refractory microscopic colitis (MC). Upadacitinib (UPA) is a small molecule that selectively inhibits janus kinase-1 (JAK1). Evidence pertaining to its utility in the management of steroid and biologic refractory MC remains limited. Herein, we report efficacy and safety of UPA in medically refractory MC. METHODS Three patients presenting with severe MC refractory to budesonide and biologic therapy (vedolizumab, Table 1) were treated with standard UPA therapy. UPA was initiated at standard induction of 45 mg/day for 8 weeks. All patients had their UPA reduced to 30 mg/d for maintenance. Therapeutic response was assessed using Hjortswang’s criteria (HC), and serial fecal calprotectin measurements. HC defines clinical remission as &amp;lt; 3 bowel movements (BM)/day and &amp;lt; 1 watery stools/day. Active disease was defined as ≥ 3 BM/day or ≥1 watery stool/day. FC &amp;lt; 150 ug/g was deemed normal. RESULTS Three patients (Table 1) were included in this study. Overall, our cohort had 2 cases of collagenous colitis and 1 case of lymphocytic colitis. Two patients had an association with diagnosis of celiac disease. All patients failed steroid and biologic therapy (Table 1) with an average of 5 failed medications. At the end of UPA induction, all patients attained &amp;lt; 3 BM/day (% reduction: -79%±6). Resolution of abdominal pain, nocturnal stooling, fatigue and fecal urgency were observed. As per HC, 1 patient displayed clinical remission and two achieved significant symptomatic improvement (Table 2). All patients displayed significant reductions in FC (-71%±1.5). At 16 weeks, none of the patients experienced LBM (-100%±0) and all resolved abdominal pain, nocturnal stooling, fatigue and fecal urgency (Table 2). FC normalized (-93%±6.4) in all three patients (Table 3). No serious infections, cardiovascular events or thromboembolic events occurred. One patient experienced gout and required further UPA dose reduction to 15 mg/day. This patient continues to maintain remission at 15 mg/day. DISCUSSION UPA is a novel JAK1 inhibitor with a favorable pharmacokinetic profile. It’s rapid onset of action and relative safe profile compared to chronic steroid use makes it an ideal treatment for refractory MC. The pathophysiology of MC remains poorly elucidated. It is postulated that JAK1 is involved in IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-15 and IFN signaling. UPA-inhibited JAK-STAT ameliorates IFN-γ and IL-6, implicated in MC pathogenesis. Data here supports UPA use in steroid and biologic refractory MC. Further large-scale studies are warranted to delineate long term efficacy and safety of UPA in MC. Table 1 Demographics and Baseline Disease Characteristics. Table 2 Trends in clinical parameters at baseline versus Weeks 8 and 16 Table 3 Percentage reduction in loose bowel movements (LBM) and fecal calprotectin (FC)

Effect of chitosan/dioleyl phosphatidyl ethanolamine - Baicalein nanohydrogel in the treatment of rat with periodontitis

Objectivethis work aimed to investigate the effectiveness of chitosan (CS)/dioleyl phosphatidyl ethanolamine (DOPE) - baicalein (CS/DOPE-BAE) nanohydrogel as a novel drug delivery system for the treatment of periodontitis in rats. Materials and methodsthe CS/DOPE-BAE nanohydrogel was synthesized and characterized for its morphology, particle size (PS), drug loading, and release properties. A rat periodontitis model was established, and the rats were randomly assigned to four groups, receiving treatment of normal saline, CS/DOPE blank nanohydrogel, baicalein solution, and CS/DOPE-BAE nanohydrogel through local injection, respectively. Clinical symptoms, periodontal tissue morphology, and the levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-10 in the periodontal tissue were observed and compared. Resultsthe CS/DOPE-BAE nanohydrogel exhibited a spherical shape with a PS of approximately 200 nm and a drug loading of 8.6 %. It demonstrated excellent sustained-release properties. The group treated with CS/DOPE-BAE nanohydrogel showed significant improvement in clinical symptoms, such as reduced gingival redness and bleeding in rats, decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, and weakened fibroblast proliferation in the periodontal tissue. Additionally, IL-1β and TNF-α levels were downregulated, while IL-10 level was elevated. Conclusionthe CS/DOPE-BAE nanohydrogel was an effective baicalein delivery system that can inhibit the progression of periodontitis, improve the inflammatory response in periodontal tissue, and deliver promising therapeutic effects.

P904 Appendectomy for refractory ulcerative colitis: results of prospective observational study

Abstract Background Appendectomy is suggested to improve the course of the disease in many patients with refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). The present prospective observational study demonstrates middle-term outcomes after an appendectomy in 26 patients with refractory UC. Methods Between 5/2022 and 2/2023, 26 selected patients underwent appendectomy for refractory UC. Refractory UC was defined as a failure of at least one biologic therapy. Patients with Dysplasia or Cancer were excluded. The appendectomy was performed without the removal of the cecal base. Primary Endpoint of the study was the Mayo clinical score (MCS) at 6 months after the appendectomy. Secondary Endpoint was the “Treatment failure” which was defined as occurrence of one of the following events during the first 6 months after appendectomy: 1) high-dosed steroid treatment, 2) change of biologic treatment, 3) colectomy. Results Mean age was 35 years (18 to 59 years) and there were 11 female patients. 15 had a pancolitis (58%). Twelve were taking steroids (46%). Median number of biologic therapies taken by patients prior to surgery was 3 (range, 1-5). One patient underwent surgery for sever acute UC. The appendix appeared to be inflamed histologically in 16 patients (62%). Hospital stay was median 2 days, there was one wound infection at the port site and one postoperative hematoma. A significant improvement of disease symptoms was reported by 21 patients during the first 4 weeks (81%). At 6 months, MCS improved from mean 6.4 to 4.5 (p=0.057). Therapy failure was observed in 15 patients (58%) – two underwent colectomy, 11 needed at least one high-dose steroid treatment and biologic therapy was changed due to refractory symptoms in 9 patients. Intake of JAK-inhibitors at the time of appendectomy was the only factor to be associated with lower probability of treatment failure (30% vs. 75%, p=0.043). The only patient undergoing appendectomy for severe acute UC was free of symptoms 14 months after surgery. Conclusion The majority of patients with refractory UC demonstrated rapid clinical response to the appendectomy. After 6 months, more than 40% of patients did not experience disease flares necessitating intensification of treatment.

Probiotic Supplementation With Saccharomyces boulardii and Enterococcus faecium Improves Gastric Pain and Bloating in Airline Pilots With Chronic Non-atrophic Gastritis: An Open-Label Study.

Background Commercial airline pilots (APs) are prone to upper gastrointestinal symptoms, such as epigastric pain and bloating. These issues are often linked to occupational risk factors like irregular diet, sleep disruption, and circadian rhythm disturbance. The use of probiotics to enhance intestinal health is well established, but their efficacy in treating upper gastrointestinal diseases is still debated. This is primarily due to the stomach's small resident microbiota and its low pH, which is inhospitable to most microbes. However, emerging research suggests that specific probiotic strains, such as Enterococcus faecium, can withstand acidic environments. Moreover, certain yeast species, including Saccharomyces boulardii, can survive at a low pH. Consequently, we conducted a preliminary, three-arm, randomized, open-label, dose-finding, four-week study to compare the effects of watchful waiting (WW) with the administration of an oral probiotic supplement containing S. boulardii and E. faecium in APs diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori-negative chronic non-atrophic gastritis (CNG). Methods The study included 39 APs with CNG who were randomized into three groups with a 1:1:1 ratio. The low-dose group (n = 13) received one capsule of the probiotic supplement twice daily, before meals, for four weeks. The high-dose group (n = 13) was administered two capsules of the supplement on the same schedule. The third group (n = 13) underwent WW and served as the control arm. Blinding was maintained for the examining physicians and laboratory staff, but not for the patients. All participants self-rated their experiences of gastric pain and bloating at the beginning and conclusion of the four-week treatment period. Additionally, serum levels of pepsinogen I (PGI) and pepsinogen II (PGII) were measured at these time points. Results Supplementation with probiotics significantly outperformed WW in reducing subjective gastric pain and bloating. This effect was consistent across both tested dosages, with no significant differences observed. However, only high-dose probiotics led to a statistically significant decrease in PGII levels and an increase in the PGI/PGII ratio after the four-week study period, a result not observed with low-dose probiotics. Conclusions Oral administration of S. boulardii and E. faecium demonstrated potential efficacy in reducing gastric pain and bloating symptoms in APs with CNG, as evidenced by statistically significant symptom improvement compared to the control group that did not receive the probiotic supplementation. Notably, high-dose probiotics resulted in a significant increase in the PGI/PGII ratio, indicating potential long-term cytoprotective effects on the gastric mucosa.

Efficacy and safety of Lianhua Qingwen granule in the treatment of non-influenza viral pneumonia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical study.

To observe the effectiveness and safety of Lianhua Qingwen granule in the treatment of non-influenza viral pneumonia. This study was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Subjects who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were clinically diagnosed with viral pneumonia (negative for influenza virus) were randomly divided into the Lianhua Qingwen granule trial group and placebo control group. Patients in the trial group was given Lianhua Qingwen granule, 2 bags at a time, 3 times a day, and the controls were given placebo, with a treatment course of 7 days. Patients' clinical symptoms and signs, and treatment-associated adverse events were observed. Subjects should be included in the full analysis set (FAS) as long as they were all given the medication and had an effectiveness test performed after randomization. Subjects should be included in the Per Protocol Set (PPS),a subset of the total analysis set, which should contain those with strong compliance, no protocol violations, and complete baseline values for the primary indicators. A total of 169 subjects were enrolled in 12 subcenters, including 151 (76 in the trial group and 75 in the control group) in the FAS and 140 (68 in the trial group and 72 in the control group) in the PPS. After 7 days of treatment, the clinical symptom relief rates were 82.98% (FAS) and 87.12% (PPS) in the trial group, and 75.11% (FAS) and 76.02% (PPS) in the control group, respectively. The clinical symptom relief rates in the trial group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.001). Significant improvements in single symptoms of cough and expectoration in the trial group were observed compared with the control group (p < 0.05). There were no statistical differences in fever, sputum color change, chest pain, muscle pain, dyspnea, chills, and thirst between the two groups (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences in body weight, vital signs, blood routine, urine routine, stool routine, and blood biochemical indicators (CK, AST, ALT, Cr, and Bun) between the two groups before and after treatment (p > 0.05). During treatment, there were no significant differences in the incidence of adverse events and serious adverse events between the two groups (p > 0.05). Lianhua Qingwen granules improved the clinical symptoms of patients with non-influenza virus pneumonia, especially ameliorating cough and expectoration. Lianhua Qingwen granules were associated with good safety.

The effectiveness of the psychosocial empowerment program in early adjustment among adult burn survivors

BackgroundBurns constitute a major global health challenge, causing not only physical trauma, but also significant psychosocial and emotional disturbances. The complexity of these injuries requires comprehensive rehabilitation programs that address both the physical and psychosocial aspects of recovery. Despite advances in medical care, there is a lack of standardized, accessible, and sustainable psychosocial interventions for burn survivors, particularly in the transition from hospital to home. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a nurse-led psychosocial empowerment intervention for early adjustment among burn survivors after hospital discharge.MethodsThe study adopted a quasi-experimental framework. A convenient sample of 80 adult burn survivors was randomly divided into an intervention group, receiving the psychosocial empowerment program, and a control group, continuing standard care from November 2022 to May 2023. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated using various tools that measure satisfaction with appearance, coping abilities, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The intervention focused on enhancing resilience, self-efficacy, and adaptive coping, through targeted skill building in stress management, adaptability to coping, social reintegration, emotion regulation, and problem-solving.ResultsParticipants in the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in body image satisfaction, coping abilities, and symptoms of PTSD compared to the control group.ConclusionsThe psychosocial empowerment program effectively addressed the psychosocial needs of burn survivors and enhanced their early adjustment after hospital discharge. The findings highlight the critical role of psychosocial support in the rehabilitation of burn survivors and underscore the need to integrate such interventions into standard post-discharge care. Future research should focus on the long-term effects of these interventions and their applicability in diverse settings.

Is Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Nephrostomy Efficacious and Safe in Pregnant Patients?: A Single Center Experience

Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) placement in pregnancy. Method: Medical records of 26 pregnant patients who were inserted with a total of 27 PCN catheters between June 2020 to June 2023 were retrospectively analyzed to assess imaging findings, procedural parameters, technical success, delivery outcomes, and procedural complications. Results: At the time of placement of the PCN, the mean gestational age was 29.04±7.01 weeks (range 7 - 36 weeks). The indications for insertion of the PCN catheter included: 1) obstructing calculi (46.2%), 2) pyelonephritis (34.6%), and 3) symptomatic hydronephrosis without calculi (19.2%). Successful catheter placement was achieved in 25/27 procedures, yielding a success rate of 92.59%, and no major complications. Minor instances of transient hematuria were encountered in three cases. The mean duration of catheter retention was 72.58 days. All patients exhibited significant clinical and symptomatic improvement. Among these patients, 22 patients (84.6%) delivered their babies at full-term, 3 patients (11.5%) delivered prematurely, and 1 patient (3.8%) experienced a miscarriage. Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided PCN placement is a reliable method with high success and efficacy that can be applied during pregnancy. This procedure avoids the use of ionizing radiation, ensuring safety for both the fetus and the mother.

Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 6475 for the treatment of moderate to severe irritable bowel syndrome in adults: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder in adults. Systematic reviews with meta-analyses have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of probiotics in improving symptoms of IBS.AimThe aim of the study was to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) DSM 17938 combined with L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 regarding improving the symptoms associated with IBS in adults.MethodsA randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 140 adults aged 18 years to 65 years with a diagnosis of IBS (based on the Rome IV criteria). After 2 weeks of washout, subjects were randomized to receive either 2 × 108 colony-forming units (CFUs) of L. reuteri DSM 17938 combined with L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 plus standard of care or placebo plus standard of care for 14 weeks, followed by a post-intervention period of 2 additional weeks. Changes in gastrointestinal symptoms (as measured with the GSRS-IBS), stool pattern (as measured with the Bristol scale), quality of life, depression and anxiety, frequency of adverse events, and fecal calprotectin concentrations were evaluated.ResultsIn total, 70 subjects were allocated to receive L. reuteri and 70 were allocated to receive placebo. During the pre-randomization phase, no differences were observed between the groups in terms of IBS-associated symptoms and stool consistency. Starting at week 6 of the intervention, subjects in group L. reuteri showed a significant improvement in IBS-associated symptoms (p &amp;lt; 0.01). A significant improvement was also observed in fecal calprotectin concentration in the L. reuteri group at the end of interventions (30.2 ± 11.8 mg/g of stool in the L. reuteri group and 41.6 mg/g ± 10.7 mg/g in the placebo group; p = 0.019). The frequency of adverse events was similar between groups.ConclusionsA twice-a-day intervention for 14 weeks is safe and effective, reduces the symptoms associated with IBS in adults aged 18 years to 65 years, improves stool consistency, and reduces symptoms associated with anxiety after 6 weeks.

Expanding Treatment, Recovery, and Reentry Services for Female Offenders: Improving Outcomes through Client-Centered Interventions.

This study investigated the impact of a specialized program aimed at improving substance use disorder and trauma treatment, recovery, and reentry services for adult female offenders. Trained recovery coaches delivered pretreatment interventions such as prescreening, motivational interviewing, and support-building to facilitate treatment entry and improve outcomes. Of 113 participants, 40% identified as racial/ethnic minorities, and 72% fell within the 25-45 age range. A notable 44.5% reduction in self-reported psychiatric symptoms was observed, alongside significant improvements in abstinence and trauma symptoms. Recovery capital and psychosocial functioning showed marked improvement including significant changes in employment status and housing stability and a decrease in criminal justice involvement. The results suggest that targeted, client-centered approaches can effectively improve recovery and psychosocial functioning among female offenders while reducing re-incarceration rates. These findings underscore the importance of addressing the unique needs of this population in both pre-and post-release settings to ensure equitable access to reentry services.

Ayurvedic Management of Vicharchika vis-à-vis Atopic Dermatitis: A Case Report

In this fast-paced developing world, regular day-to-day activities like diet and sleep are neglected, leading to various skin disorders (Kushtha). Kushtha is a generalised term used for all skin diseases in Ayurveda. It is mainly divided into two types: Maha kushtha and Kshudra kushtha. Vicharchika is a type of Kshudra kushtha characterised by symptoms like blackish discolouration (Shyava varnata), vesicles (Pidika), discharge (Strava), and itching (Kandu), which can be correlated to atopic dermatitis/eczema. There is no adequate treatment to cure the root cause in contemporary medicine other than topical steroids and antihistaminic agents. The main treatment protocol according to Ayurveda involves the use of both purification (Shodhana) and palliative treatment (Shaman chikitsa). A 21-year-old female patient presented with small blackish papules on both upper limbs, oosing, and itching on the lesions. She was given medication for both internal use and external application, resulting in significant improvement in symptoms. The patches resolved, and the discharge, itching, and vesicles disappeared.

Assessment of Oncosurgical and Functional Outcomes in Patients undergoing Glossectomy for Advanced Carcinoma Tongue: A Cross-sectional Study at a Tertiary Cancer Care Centre in Northern India

Introduction: Tongue carcinoma presents a global oncological challenge due to its aggressive nature and late-stage diagnosis. Glossectomy, a key surgical procedure for advanced cases, significantly affects both cancer control and essential functions such as speech and swallowing. Aim: To analyse the impact of different glossectomy types on oncological and functional outcomes in patients with advanced carcinoma of the tongue. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Research Institute, Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Uttarakhand, India over a one-year period from September 1, 2022, to August 31, 2023. The study included 47 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral and posterior tongue who underwent glossectomy. Oncological outcomes (mortality and hospital stay) and functional outcomes (swallowing, speech, dysphagia, and Quality of Life (QoL)) were assessed. The questionnaires used were the EORTC Core Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), EORTC questionnaire for the assessment of QoL in head and neck cancer patients (EORTC QLQ-H&amp;N35), M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI), and Speech Handicap Index (SHI). Follow-up was conducted at the 6th week to assess changes in the functional aspects compared to the baseline scores. Data were entered into Microsoft Excel, and the analysis was performed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25.0. The data were analysed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. A p-value of &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The study comprised 37 (78.72%) males and 10 (21.28%) females, with a mean age of 47.77±12.6 years. Preoperative staging indicated that 22 (46.81%) patients had T2N0 stage, 16 (34.04%) patients had T3, and 9 (19.15%) patients had T4a disease. Among the patients, 14 (29.79%) underwent partial glossectomy, 27 (57.45%) underwent hemiglossectomy, and 3 (6.38%) underwent subtotal glossectomy, and 3 (6.38%) underwent total glossectomy. The mean duration of hospital stay was 10.09±2.87 days. There were no instances of mortality or tumour recurrence at the 6th week. Regarding the functional outcomes, compared to baseline, at the 6th week, there was a significant decrease in EORTC QLQ-H&amp;N35 median scores from 6.94 to 1.73 (p=0.005), but no significant change in the mean EORTC QLQ-C30 (90±8.22 versus (vs) 89.72±8.52, p=0.368), mean MDADI (4.51±1.2 vs 4.43±1.19, p=0.585), and mean SHI (15.81±25.76 vs 13.43±26.19, p=0.052). Conclusion: It can be inferred that glossectomy for advanced carcinoma of the tongue leads to a significant improvement in symptoms; however, the overall Quality of Life (QoL) and functions of the tongue such as swallowing and speech remain comparable to pre-surgery levels.

Оценка эффективности бромфенака натрия в лечении синдрома «сухого глаза»

Background: to date, the efficacy of anti-inflammatory treatment in dry eye disease (DED) is still relevant. Aim: to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bromfenac sodium 0.09% ophthalmic solution plus artificial tears in patients with DED. Patients and Methods: 175 patients (350 eyes) with DED receiving artificial tears were enrolled. Subjective and objective assessment of symptom severity was performed and DED stage was determined before and 4 weeks after treatment with bromfenac sodium 0.09% ophthalmic solution based on the results of the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, Schirmer's test and Norn's test. Adverse events were registered to assess the safety of bromfenac sodium 0.09%. Results: complex treatment of DED resulted in a 1.4-fold increase in Schirmer's test and Norn's test score and a significant improvement in typical symptoms based on the OSDI score. The average OSDI score decreased by 56% compared to baseline. The number of patients with moderate to severe DED decreased by 7% and 55% respectively. The number of patients with mild DED increased by 21%. After 4 weeks of treatment, 41% of patients were symptom free. All changes during the study were significant (p&lt;0.05). No adverse events were reported with the use of bromfenac sodium 0.09%. Conclusion: bromfenac sodium 0.09% ophthalmic solution is clinically effective in DED. This medication increases total tear production, reduces the severity of symptoms and decreases the number of patients with severe and moderate disease, thereby improving the quality of life of these patients. KEYWORDS: bromfenac sodium, OSDI, dry eye disease, Schirmer's test, treatment efficacy. FOR CITATION: Loskutov I.A., Semashko E.F., Khomyakova E.N., Makukha E.I., Kostina N.E. Evaluation of the efficacy of bromfenac sodium in the treatment of dry eye disease. Russian Journal of Clinical Ophthalmology. 2024;24(1):7–13 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2311-7729-2024- 24-1-2.

Therapeutic efficacy of probiotics for symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: meta-analysis.

The efficacy of probiotics as a therapeutic alternative for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remain unclear. To investigate the effectiveness of probiotics for symptoms of ADHD and identify possible factors affecting their efficacy. Randomised placebo-controlled trials were identified through searching major databases from inception to April 2023, using the main keywords 'probiotics' and 'ADHD' without limitation on languages or geographic locations. The outcome of interest included improvement in total symptoms of ADHD, symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity, and drop-out rate. Continuous and categorical data were expressed as effect sizes based on standardised mean differences (SMDs) and odds ratios, respectively, with 95% confidence intervals. Meta-analysis of seven trials involving 379 participants (mean age 10.37 years, range 4-18 years) showed no significant improvement in total symptoms of ADHD (SMD = 0.25; P = 0.12), symptoms of inattention (SMD = 0.14; P = 0.3) or hyperactivity/impulsivity (SMD = 0.08; P = 0.54) between the probiotic and placebo groups. Despite non-significance on subgroup analyses, there was a large difference in effect size between studies using probiotics as an adjunct to methylphenidate and those using probiotics as supplementation (SMD = 0.84 v. 0.07; P = 0.16), and a moderate difference in effect size between studies using multiple strains of probiotics and those using single-strain regimens (SMD = 0.45 v. 0.03; P = 0.19). Current evidence shows no significant difference in therapeutic efficacy between probiotics and placebos for treatment of ADHD symptoms. However, albeit statistically non-significant, higher therapeutic efficacies associated with multiple-strain probiotics or combining probiotics with methylphenidate may provide direction for further research.

Tuberculosis or Sarcoidosis or the Both? A Case Report of Concomitant Tuberculosis and Sarcoidosis

Tuberculosis and sarcoidosis are two chronic granulomatous diseases that are similar in many aspects, although different. We report a case of 38-year-old female patient who presented a progressive shortness of breath and recurrent epistaxis associated to a night sweats and fatigue with a deterioration of general condition, in which a CT-scan showed a multiple voluminous lymphadenopathy involving all the mediastinum territories, without parenchymal abnormalities. During investigations bronchoscopy showed mucosal hypertrophy and granulations located on the nasopharyngeal walls. The biopsy of the lip and nasal’s lesion showed a non-caseating granuloma and ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) was high, which considered sufficient to retain the diagnosis of sarcoidosis, but the blood Quantiferon-TB Gold in Tube test was positive and the excision biopsy of cervical lymphadenopathy, revealed a necrotizing granulomatous inflammation suggestive of tuberculosis. The association between sarcoidosis and tuberculosis was discussed. the patient was treated with antituberculosis drugs during six months. The evolution was marked by a progressive regression of lymph nodes. There was no significant improvement of rhinological symptoms with local corticoids. Consequently, the corticosertoide treatement in form oral was introduced during 1 month. The prednisolone was gradually tapered off after 1 month due to the complete disappearance of lesions. The case described is suggestive of a coexistent systemic sarcoid manifestation and tuberculosis, which is an underrecognized entity in the medical literature.

INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: Sarecycline Improves Acne Severity, Symptoms, and Psychosocial Burden in Non-nodular Acne Vulgaris: PROSES Study.

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are emerging as a fundamental component of disease impact assessment in acne vulgaris (AV), complementing clinician-reported outcomes. No data is available on PROs for patients with AV using sarecycline in real-world settings. A single-arm, prospective cohort study that included patients &ge;9 years old diagnosed with moderate or severe non-nodular AV was implemented as part of routine care in clinical practices (N=30). Patients received oral sarecycline (60 mg, 100 mg, or 150 mg) for 12 weeks, as part of usual care. The primary endpoint was Acne Symptom and Impact Scale (ASIS) responses from patients (&ge;12 years) and caregivers (for patients 9-11 years) at week 12 and change from baseline (CFB). Investigator&rsquo;s Global Assessment (IGA) of AV severity and adverse events (AEs) were also recorded. A total of 253 patients with AV completed the study (adults: 60.1%, females: 77.6%). ASIS mean scores significantly decreased (P &lt;.0001) at week 12 for: signs (mean CFB &plusmn; standard deviation [SD]: &ndash;0.8 &plusmn; 0.7), impact (&ndash;1.0 &plusmn; 1.0), emotional impact (&ndash;1.2 &plusmn; 1.1), and social impact (0.6 &plusmn; 1.1). Significant reductions in AV severity (P &lt;.0001) were reported by patients and caregivers. The IGA success rate was 58.9% and physician satisfaction with treatment outcomes was 88.1%. A total of 31 (10.3%) patients reported &ge;1 AE during the study. Patients with moderate-to-severe AV receiving acne management with an oral antibiotic for 12 weeks experienced a significant improvement in AV-related symptoms and psychosocial burden. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23:1(Suppl 1):s12-18.

Mobile app for pelvic floor muscle training for urinary incontinence during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: clinical trial.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of home-based pelvic floor muscle training in women with urinary incontinence, addressing the difficulties arising from social isolation due to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic by utilizing a specialized mobile app. This randomized, single-group clinical trial aimed to assess the efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training guided by a mobile app (Diario Saúde) in women with stress urinary incontinence. Participants were instructed via telephone to engage in pelvic floor muscle training exercises twice a day for 30 days. Pre- and post-treatment, participants completed validated questionnaires regarding urinary symptoms and quality of life through telephone interviews. Additionally, treatment adherence was evaluated. A total of 156 women were enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 49.3±14.2 years. Significant improvements in urinary incontinence symptoms and quality of life were observed following pelvic floor muscle training guided by the mobile app (p<0.001). Notably, 74.3% of the participants reported performing the exercises with appropriate frequency. Of the participants, 62% reported either complete or substantial improvement in urinary symptoms post-treatment. This study revealed notable enhancements in stress urinary incontinence, urinary storage, and overall quality of life subsequent to pelvic floor muscle training guided by a mobile app, particularly during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The mobile app demonstrated robust acceptance and adherence among women experiencing urinary incontinence.