Symptom Questionnaire Research Articles

Choosing the right treatment - combining clinicians' expert knowledge with data-driven predictions.

This study proposes a Bayesian network model to aid mental health specialists making data-driven decisions on suitable treatments. The aim is to create a probabilistic machine learning model to assist psychologists in selecting the most suitable treatment for individuals for four potential mental disorders: Depression, Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, or Specific Phobia. This study utilized a dataset from 1,094 individuals in Denmark containing socio-demographic details and mental health information. A Bayesian network was initially employed in a purely data-driven approach and was later refined with expert knowledge, referred to as a hybrid model. The model outputted probabilities for each disorder, with the highest probability indicating the most suitable disorder for treatment. By incorporating expert knowledge, the model demonstrated enhanced performance compared to a strictly data-driven approach. Specifically, it achieved an AUC score of 0.85 vs 0.80 on the test data. Furthermore, we evaluated some cases where the predictions of the model did not match the actual treatment. The symptom questionnaires indicated that these participants likely had comorbid disorders, with the actual treatment being proposed by the model with the second highest probability. In 90.1% of cases, the hybrid model ranked the actual disorder treated as either the highest (67.3%) or second-highest (22.8%) on the test data. This emphasizes that instead of suggesting a single disorder to be treated, the model can offer the probabilities for multiple disorders. This allows individuals seeking treatment or their therapists to incorporate this information as an additional data-driven factor when collectively deciding on which treatment to prioritize.

Information search under uncertainty across transdiagnostic psychopathology and healthy ageing

When making decisions in everyday life, we often rely on an internally generated sense of confidence to help us revise and direct future behaviours. For instance, confidence directly informs whether further information should be sought prior to commitment to a final decision. Many studies have shown that aging and both clinical and sub-clinical symptoms of psychopathology are associated with systematic alterations in confidence. However, it remains unknown whether these confidence distortions influence information-seeking behaviour. We investigated this question in a large general population sample (N = 908). Participants completed a battery of psychiatric symptom questionnaires and performed a perceptual decision-making task with confidence ratings in which they were offered the option to seek helpful information (at a cost) before committing to a final decision. Replicating previous findings, an ‘anxious-depression’ (AD) symptom dimension was associated with systematically low confidence, despite no detriment in objective task accuracy. Conversely, a ‘compulsive behaviour and intrusive thoughts’ (CIT) dimension was associated with impaired task accuracy but paradoxical over-confidence. However, neither symptom dimension was significantly associated with an increased or decreased tendency to seek information. Hence, participants scoring highly for AD or CIT did not use the option to information seek any more than average to either increase their confidence (AD) or improve the accuracy of their decisions (CIT). In contrast, older age was associated with impaired accuracy and decreased confidence initially, but increased information seeking behaviour mediated increases in both accuracy and confidence for final decisions. Hence, older adults used the information seeking option to overcome initial deficits in objective performance and to increase their confidence accordingly. The results show an appropriate use of information seeking to overcome perceptual deficits and low confidence in healthy aging which was not present in transdiagnostic psychopathology.

Examining the overlap between tinnitus and depression questionnaires-protocol for an ICF based content analysis.

Tinnitus is a common phenomenon with an estimated prevalence of 14.4% in the adult population. The experienced severity of tinnitus varies significantly among this population. Psychological factors have been identified as major contributors to this perceived severity, and numerous studies have demonstrated a correlation between symptoms of depression and tinnitus severity. However, the assessment of tinnitus severity and depressive symptoms often relies on self-report questionnaires, which show content overlap. This can pose challenges in distinguishing both conditions and interpreting their relationship. To address these challenges, the proposed study aims to examine the overlap between tinnitus and depressive symptom questionnaires by analyzing their content based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. Six validated, multi-item, self-report questionnaires measuring perceived tinnitus severity (THI, TQ, mTQ, THQ, TRQ, TFI) and seven validated, multi-item, self-report, depressive symptom questionnaires (BDI-II, HADS-D, SDS, PHQ-9, CES-D, SCL-90-R depression subscale, DASS-42 depression subscale) will be included in the content analysis. The content of all items of these questionnaires will be linked to ICF categories and item overlap between the tinnitus and depressive symptom questionnaires will be analyzed. By exploring the overlap between depression and tinnitus questionnaires, this study seeks to gain a better understanding of the relationship between tinnitus and depression, by distinguishing between shared content and independent constructs of symptom scores and shedding light on the factors influencing their measured severity. Ethical approval is not required for this study, due to the characteristics of the study design. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed open access publication and scientific conferences.

Evolution of dizziness-related disability in children following concussion: a group-based trajectory analysis.

This study aimed to identify Dizziness-Related Disability (DRD) recovery trajectories in pediatric concussion and assess clinical predictors of disability groups. In this prospective cohort study, 81 children (8-17 years) diagnosed with an acute concussion took part in 3 evaluation sessions (baseline, 3-month, and 6-month). All sessions included the primary disability outcome, the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) to create the DRD recovery trajectories using group-based multi-trajectory modeling analysis. Each independent variable included general patients' characteristics, premorbid conditions, function and symptoms questionnaires, and clinical physical measures; and were compared between the trajectories with logistic regression models. Low DRD (LD) trajectory (n = 64, 79%), and a High DRD (HD) trajectory (n = 17, 21%) were identified. The Predicting and Preventing Postconcussive Problems in Pediatrics (5P) total score (Odds Ratio (OR):1.50, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.01-2.22), self-reported neck pain (OR:7.25, 95%CI: 1.24-42.36), and premorbid anxiety (OR:7.25, 95%CI: 1.24-42.36) were the strongest predictors of belonging to HD group. Neck pain, premorbid anxiety, and the 5P score should be considered initially in clinical practice as to predict DRD at 3 and 6-month. Further research is needed to refine predictions and enhance personalized treatment strategies for pediatric concussion.

213. A NEW MANOMETRIC TOOL TO EVALUATE THE EFFICACY OF LAPAROSCOPIC ANTIREFLUX SURGERY

Abstract Background High resolution manometry (HRM) has been proven able to describe the pathophysiological pathway leading to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Recently, a new manometric tool, the Milan Score (MS), has been introduced and validated to evaluate the risk of pathologic GERD, defined as Acid Exposure Time (AET) >6% at pH-study. Aim of this study is to validate this score in the post-operative assessment after laparoscopic antireflux surgery (LARS). Methods All patients who underwent HRM after LARS between October 2020 and May 2023 were included. The MS was calculated assessing four manometric variables: esophagogastric junction (EGJ) type, EGJ contractile integral (EGJ-CI), ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) and response to the straight leg raise (SLR) manoeuvre. The MS was considered pathologic if ≥137 (risk of GERD ≥50%). The risk of GERD was categorized into six classes, according to the MS score. The MS was compared with validated questionnaires for reflux symptoms, including GERD Questionnaire (GERD-Q), GERD Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI), and with postoperative endoscopy findings. Results A total of 160 patients were included (63% males, age: 53 years, time from surgery: 30 months). Surgical techniques included magnetic sphincter augmentation in 54% of patients, Toupet fundoplication in 29% and Nissen or Dor fundoplication in 17%. The proportion of patients with MS ≥137 among those with pathologic questionnaires was 73% for GERD-Q (p<0.001), 75% for GERD-HRQL (p<0.001) and 78% for RSI (p<0.001). The rate of pathologic questionnaires increased for higher MSs. A MS ≥137 was related to recurrent hiatal hernia (23%, p=0.046) and esophagitis (21%, p=0.007) at endoscopy. Clinical and manometric outcomes were similar among different surgical techniques. Conclusions The MS is an efficient tool to assess the efficacy of LARS. Various surgical techniques have similar distribution in the different risk classes for GERD identified by MS, and similar clinical results. HRM with MS represent an easy and feasible assessment of surgical outcomes after LARS, providing an objective evaluation of the antireflux barrier after surgery.

Correlation between Respiratory Symptoms Questionnaire and Pulmonary Function Test in Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease Patients: A Tertiary Care Hospital Study

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to investigate the correlation between respiratory symptoms assessed by the Respiratory Symptoms Questionnaire (RSQ) and pulmonary function test (PFT) results in patients diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, involving 130 COPD patients presenting with symptoms of breathlessness, chronic cough, and wheeze. Data collection instruments used were: (1) RSQ: The RSQ was utilized to assess respiratory symptoms, including breathlessness, cough, and wheeze, (2) PFT: PFT assessments, including spirometry, were performed to measure lung function impairment objectively. Participants completed the RSQ under supervision, followed by PFT assessments conducted by trained respiratory technologists using standardized procedures. Results: Descriptive statistics were computed for demographic variables and questionnaire scores. Pearson correlation analysis was employed to assess the association between respiratory symptoms measured by RSQ and PFT parameters. The Chi-square analysis determined the overall association between symptom scores and PFT results across the COPD severity groups. Significant correlations were observed between severe COPD and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire, moderate COPD and Clinical COPD Questionnaire, and moderate-to-severe COPD and COPD Assessment Test (P < 0.05). Nonsignificant correlations were found between mild COPD and symptom scores (P > 0.05). The Chi-square analysis confirmed a strong association between respiratory symptoms and PFT results (P = 0.04). Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of comprehensive symptom assessment alongside the objective measures of lung function in COPD management. Integrating tools such as RSQ with PFTs enables clinicians to obtain a holistic understanding of patients’ disease status and tailor treatment strategies accordingly.

The Utility of the Schnur Sliding Scale in Adolescent Patients.

Although the Schnur Sliding Scale (SSS) was not intended to be used by third-party payors, it has become the national standard for coverage decisions regarding macromastia treatment in patients of all ages. Adolescents were neither included in the cohort that created the SSS nor represented in subsequent validation studies. In this prospective study, health-related quality of life surveys were administered to girls and young women 12 to 21 years of age before and after reduction mammaplasty to treat macromastia. The SSS was used preoperatively to estimate the amount of tissue to be resected. Before and after surgery, participants completed the Short Form-36, version 2 (SF-36); the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES); the Breast-Related Symptoms Questionnaire (BRSQ); and the Eating Attitudes Test-26. Demographic data were compared, and linear regressions were used to evaluate the effect of resection amounts meeting the SSS value on survey scores. Resection amounts fell below the SSS for 39 patients and above the SSS for 255 patients. The 2 groups had no differences in mean age or body mass index. Both groups had significant postoperative survey score improvements on the RSES, BRSQ, and 7 of 8 SF-36 domains (all P < 0.05). The groups had comparable postoperative survey scores on the RSES, BRSQ, and 8 of 8 SF-36 domains (all P > 0.05). Adolescents undergoing reduction mammaplasty above and below the SSS experienced comparable physical and psychosocial benefits. These findings underscore the need for third-party payors to broaden coverage for adolescent reduction mammaplasty, as the common coverage cutoff has no effect on overall postoperative benefit. Risk, II.

Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Among Physicians at General Governmental Hospitals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. It significantly impacts the quality of life and imposes a financial burden on healthcare systems. Previous studies have shown varying prevalence rates of IBS among different populations. Objective This study aims to determine the prevalence of IBS among physicians working in general governmental hospitals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and to analyze the associated demographic and lifestyle factors. Methods An analytical cross-sectional study of 391 physicians from King Fahad and East Jeddah General Hospitals used an anonymous electronic survey covering demographics, health, lifestyle, and the Birmingham IBS Symptoms Questionnaire. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 29 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests, with p < 0.05 as significant. Results The prevalence of IBS among the participants was 45% (n=176). Significant associations were found between Birmingham scores and various demographic and lifestyle factors. Younger age groups (25-29 years, 51.4%, n=201) had higher mean ranks (212.98) compared to older age groups, with a p-value of .009. Males (54.5%, n=213) had a significantly higher mean rank (213.37) compared to females (45.5%, n=178; 175.22) (p<.001). Non-smokers (38.1%, n=149) had a significantly higher mean rank (214.27) compared to smokers (61.9%, n=242; 166.33) (p<.001). Physical exercise was associated with a lower prevalence of IBS symptoms, with non-exercisers (39.9%, n=156) having a higher mean rank (207.67) compared to exercisers (60.1%, n=235; 178.42) (p=.012). Additionally, 46.3% (n=181) of participants reported missing work due to IBS symptoms. Conclusion The study found a high prevalence of IBS among physicians in Jeddah, with significant associations between IBS symptoms and various demographic and lifestyle factors. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness, regular screening, and support for physicians suffering from IBS to improve their quality of life and job performance.

The Psychometric Performance of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-12 in Symptomatic Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

A primary goal of treating patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (oHCM) is to improve their symptoms, function, and quality of life. While the psychometric properties of the 23-item Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ-23) have been described in oHCM, they have not been assessed for the shorter 12-item version (KCCQ-12), which is increasingly used in clinical practice. Using data from the EXPLORER-HCM trial, the psychometric properties of the KCCQ-12 were evaluated. The KCCQ-12 domain and summary scores had moderate correlations with the most relevant clinical (New York Heart Association class, exercise duration, peak oxygen consumption) and patient-reported measures (EQ-5D-5L visual analog scale, Work Productivity and Activity Impairment [WPAI] questionnaire, and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Symptom Questionnaire [HCMSQ]). KCCQ-12 domain scores had strong internal consistency and test-retest reliability, demonstrated significant and proportional changes with different magnitudes of clinical change (assessed with the patient global impression of change and patient impression of severity), and demonstrated close equivalence to the KCCQ-23 scores. The KCCQ-12 demonstrated good psychometric performance for patients with oHCM, comparable to that of the KCCQ-23, supporting its use in clinical practice to care for patients with oHCM.

578. DUPILUMAB EFFICACY IN EOSINOPHILIC OESOPHAGITIS PATIENTS TREATED WITH PRIOR THERAPY AND INADEQUATE RESPONSE, INTOLERANCE, OR CONTRAINDICATION TO SWALLOWED TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROIDS

Abstract Background Improvements in histologic, symptomatic, and endoscopic aspects of eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) were observed in patients treated with dupilumab weekly (qw) enrolled in the 3-part, phase 3 LIBERTY EoE TREET study (NCT03633617), regardless of prior inadequate response, intolerance, and/or contraindication to swallowed topical corticosteroids (STC). Here we assess the efficacy of dupilumab qw versus placebo in this STC non-responsive/intolerant subgroup, stratifying further by those with/without history of food elimination diets, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use at randomisation, or history of oesophageal dilation. Methods This analysis includes patients who received dupilumab 300 mg qw or placebo for 24 weeks in Part B and an additional 28 weeks dupilumab in Part C. Co-primary endpoints (Weeks 24 and 52) include: proportions of patients achieving peak eosinophil count (PEC) ≤6 eosinophils/high-power field (eos/hpf) and absolute change in Dysphagia Symptom Questionnaire (DSQ) score. Secondary endpoints assessed included proportions of patients achieving PEC ≤1 eos/hpf, &amp;lt;15 eos/hpf, % change in PEC, and absolute change in Endoscopic Reference Score, and EoE-Histologic Scoring System grade/stage scores. Results Dupilumab 300 mg qw improved proportions of patients achieving co-primary endpoints, ≤6 eos/hpf and absolute change in DSQ score, and secondary endpoints, ≤1 eos/hpf and &amp;lt;15 eos/hpf at Week 24 versus placebo, regardless of history of food elimination diets, PPI use at randomisation, or history of dilation (Table). Improvements were maintained or continued to improve at Week 52. A similar trend was observed for other secondary endpoints assessed. Placebo-treated patients who switched to dupilumab in Part C demonstrated similar efficacy to patients treated with dupilumab in Part B. Dupilumab safety was consistent with the known dupilumab safety profile. Conclusion Dupilumab qw demonstrated sustained improvements in histologic and symptomatic aspects of EoE up to 52 weeks in adults and adolescents with an inadequate response, intolerance, and/or contraindication to STC, regardless of history of food elimination diets, PPI use, or history of oesophageal dilation. Improvements in endoscopic aspects of EoE up to 52 weeks were also observed.

Prevalence of Persistent Post-Concussion Syndrome in Adults After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Background: The incidence of post-concussion syndrome (PCS) in post-traumatic brain injury patients continues to increase every year. Although mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) is one of the primary causes of death and disability worldwide, research on the prevalence of PCS after mTBI is still extremely limited. Previous studies have shown that approximately 10-15% of mTBI patients experience PCS, but these studies often have different methodologies and sample sizes.Purpose: This study aimed to determine and compare the prevalence of persistent post-concussion syndrome (PCS; &gt;1 month post-injury) in patients with mTBI and those without PCS.Methods: This study employed a retrospective cohort design and analyzed patient data from hospital records between July and December 2022, yielding a sample of 112 participants with persistent post-concussion syndrome (PCS) following mTBI and 204 participants without PCS. Patients with complete medical record data and active health checks for one month after being treated were taken as research subjects. PCS measurement was conducted using the Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ).Results: The total number of mTBI patients was 112 patients with PCS (35.4%) with p&lt;0.000. The occurrence of PCS was found to be most prevalent in the second month, with 49 patients (43.7%). Problems concentrating (37.5%), headache (30.3%), and memory problems (16.9%).Conclusions: The study found that 35.4% of patients with mTBI experienced persistent post-concussion syndrome (PCS) after one month. The occurrence of PCS was most prevalent in the second month, with 43.7% of patients experiencing it. The symptoms most commonly indicating PCS were problems concentrating, headache, and memory problems. These findings warrant better screening guidelines, and practices that patients adopt after mTBI.

Linguistic and cultural validation of symptom questionnaire for visual dysfunctions (SQVD) for psychometric analysis in the Chinese context.

The Spanish scale symptom questionnaire for visual dysfunctions (SQVD) was sinicized and tested for reliability and validity in the Chinese context, employing both classical measurement theory and item response theory. A meticulous translation was conducted using the modified Brislin translation model, with input from experts for cross-cultural debugging and in-depth review. Following a pre-survey study, the Chinese version of the SQVD was finalized. A convenience sampling method was used to select 270 patients from the target group and 252 valid questionnaires were successfully collected. The Rasch model was employed to assess response category functionality, fit statistics, unidimensionality, person and item reliability, separation, targeting, and differential item functioning. Classical test theory was applied to evaluate internal consistency and retest reliability, supplemented by correlation analysis. Job characteristic curves were also plotted to assess diagnostic accuracy. The Chinese SQVD conformed to a unidimensional structure with excellent reliability and validity. Person and item reliabilities were 0.85 and 0.99, respectively, indicating, high stability. Person and item separation indices were 2.37 and 11.54, respectively, signifying strong differentiation ability. Retest reliability was 0.917, further emphasizing the stability of the scale. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.908 (95% CI: 0.854, 0.962), with a cutoff value of 7.5 and Youden index of 0.733, highlighting the scale's high diagnostic accuracy. The translated and culturally adapted Chinese SQVD demonstrated excellent psychometric properties. With streamlined items, short assessment time, and high efficiency, the scale is a stable and reliable clinical tool for detecting a variety of conditions related to refractive, regulatory, and binocular vision dysfunction.

Association of gastroesophageal junction laxity and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a prevalent condition with significant clinical variability, complicating its evaluation and treatment. The gastroesophageal flap valve is a fundamental evaluation method, but have shown limitations in specificity and reliance on subjective endoscopists' experience. Recent insights suggest that gastroesophageal junction laxity may offer an objective and quantifiable measurement for the presence of gastroesophageal reflux disease. This retrospective study analyzed data from 401 patients who underwent comprehensive evaluations, including a symptom questionnaire, endoscopy, pH-impedance monitoring, high-resolution manometry, and treatment directions, between January 1, 2022 and October 31, 2023. Gastroesophageal junction laxity was assessed using a modified approach based on endoscopic image analysis, with the diameter of endoscope as reference to estimate the long diameter of the laxity ring. The independent association of gastroesophageal junction laxity with pathologic acid exposure, esophagitis, and hiatal hernia were assessed by adjusting with age and sex. The mean age was 44.5 ± 5.5years old, and 49.9% (200/401) were male. The most common symptoms (≥ 1 point) were acid regurgitation (333/401, 83.0%), heartburn (315/401, 78.6%), belching (278/401, 69.3%), bloating (241/401, 60.1%), and globus sensation (241/401, 60.1%). The gastroesophageal junction laxity was significantly associated with pathologic acid exposure, esophagitis, hiatal hernia, and lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure. Notably, with the increase in gastroesophageal junction laxity, the rates of pathologic acid exposure, esophagitis, and hiatal hernia increased gradually, the lower esophageal sphincter resting pressure decreased gradually. The gastroesophageal junction laxity was independent associated with pathologic acid exposure (OR = 2.33, 95%CI 1.77-3.07, p < 0.001), esophagitis (OR = 2.10, 95%CI 1.62-2.73, p < 0.001), and hiatal hernia (high-resolution manometry: OR = 3.39, 95%CI: 2.46-4.67, p < 0.001) (endoscopy: OR = 21.65, 95%CI 11.70-40.06, p < 0.001). The gastroesophageal junction laxity was significantly associated with the indicators of pathophysiology in gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Long-Term Outcomes of Recurrent Bulbar Urethral Stricture Treatment With the Optilume Drug-Coated Balloon: Five-Year Results From the ROBUST I Study.

We report the 5-year study closeout results for the ROBUST I trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of the Optilume drug-coated balloon (DCB) for men with short, recurrent bulbar urethral strictures. Adult men with recurrent bulbar urethral strictures ≤ 2 cm long and lumen < 12F were included in the study and treated with the Optilume DCB. Outcome measures included symptom questionnaires, maximum urinary flow rate, postvoid residual, and freedom from repeat intervention. Functional success was defined as improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score ≥ 50% without re-treatment. Fifty-three men were enrolled and treated, and 31 subjects completed all follow-up. Functional success was achieved in 58% (25/43) patients at 5 years. Average International Prostate Symptom Score improved from a mean of 25.2 at baseline to 7.2 at 5 years (P < .001). Freedom from repeat intervention was maintained through 5 years at 71.7% estimated by Kaplan-Meier. Maximum urinary flow rate improved from 5.0 mL/s at baseline to 19.9 (P < .01), and average postvoid residual was reduced from 141.4 mL to 59.5 mL (P < .01) at 5 years of follow-up. Erectile function remained unaffected. There were no serious treatment-related adverse events. In this challenging cohort of men with failed prior endoscopic treatment, the Optilume DCB shows sustained improvement in subjective and objective voiding parameters at 5 years. Optilume is a safe and effective treatment option for appropriately selected men with recurrent bulbar urethral stricture who wish to avoid urethroplasty. Results are in line with the ROBUST III randomized controlled trial that will continue follow-up through 5 years. : NCT03014726.

Non-linear associations between night shifts and adverse events in nursing staff: a restricted cubic spline analysis

IntroductionExisting studies suggest that the number of night shifts may impact the occurrence of adverse events. However, while this relationship is well-documented, previous research has not thoroughly examined the non-linear associations between night shifts and adverse events among nursing staff, which remains a gap in our understanding.MethodsParticipants were 1,774 Chinese nurse staff. Psychosocial characteristics were screened by The Chinese version of the multidimensional scale of perceived social support (MSPSS) for social support, the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depressive symptoms, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) for anxiety symptoms. Binary logistic regression and restricted cubic splines were applied to analyze the data. The statistical software used were R version 3.6.2 and SPSS version 22.0.ResultsOver the past year, 325 cases (18.3%) were classified as adverse events. Logistic regression unveiled that social support played a protective role against adverse events, with an OR of 0.991 (95% CI: 0.983, 0.999). Furthermore, night shifts continued to surface as a substantial risk factor for adverse events, with an OR to 1.300 (95% CI: 1.181, 1.431). The restricted cubic spline regression model highlights a nonlinear relationship between night shifts and adverse events (P for non-liner < 0.001). The probability of adverse events increases with the number of night shifts, but compared to individuals working 3–4 night shifts per month, those working 5–6 night shifts per month have a lower probability of adverse events.ConclusionOur findings indicate a non-linear relationship between the frequency of night shifts and adverse events, suggesting a complex interplay of factors. This highlights the need for nursing practice and policy to consider the intricacies of night shift scheduling and explore more reasonable rostering strategies to mitigate the probability of adverse events.

Characteristics and Impact of Long COVID at a Neurology Clinic

Introduction: Long COVID can also lead to neurological sequelae that affect existing diseases. This study explored how COVID-19 infection affects neurological patients and the relationship between long COVID and exacerbating factors. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 85 patients with neurological diseases after COVID-19 at the Neurology Department, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Korea. The data were collected between August and October 2022. The patients had a medical history, including COVID-19 infection, and completed symptom questionnaires. A long COVID questionnaire consisting of 35 inquiries in 10 categories was completed. Anxiety, depression, fatigue, functional difficulties, QOL, and health status changes were assessed. Results: The analysis comprised 85 participants (age: 56.4 ± 15.2 years; 63.5% women). Of the categories, neurological symptoms (68.2%) were the most prevalent, followed by systemic symptoms (64.7%) and cardiopulmonary symptoms (56.5%). Anxiety, depression, and fatigue symptoms were reported by 36.5%, 34.1%, and 42.4% of the participants. Subjective neurological deterioration after COVID-19 was reported in 28 participants (28/81, 34.6%). Anxiety, depression, and fatigue were influenced by long COVID symptoms and the subjective deterioration of neurological conditions. Conclusion: This study analyzed the long COVID symptoms in patients with preexisting neurological conditions and their impact on mental health and quality of life. One-third of the participants reported a subjective worsening of their preexisting neurological conditions. This study highlights the need for comprehensive follow-ups and a multidisciplinary approach for patients with neurological conditions and prolonged COVID-19 symptoms.

The role of attentional control in moderating attentional bias towards game-related stimuli in individuals with a high tendency for internet gaming addiction.

The aim of this study was to elucidate individual difference factors that modulate the attentional processing of game stimuli to explain the heterogeneity of extant findings. The current study examined whether individual differences in components of attentional control (AC-shifting and AC-focusing) moderated the link between internet gaming addiction symptom and attentional engagement to and disengagement biases from game-relevant cues. A total of 75 male undergraduate students who have played League of Legend (LOL) for more than 2 years completed well-established self-report questionnaires of internet gaming disorder symptoms and attentional control. The attentional bias toward game stimuli was measured for attentional engagement and disengagement using the attentional response to the distal vs. proximal emotional information (ARDPEI) task. The results revealed that attentional control was a significant moderator of the relationship between internet game addiction symptoms and attentional disengagement bias. Further analyses revealed a positive relationship between internet game addiction symptoms and attentional disengagement bias only among those with low levels of AC-shifting ability. Contrary to our expectations, AC-shifting also moderated the relationship between internet gaming disorder and attentional engagement bias. The positive relationship between internet game addiction symptoms and attentional engagement bias only appeared among those with low levels of AC-shifting ability. Individual differences in AC-focusing did not moderate the relationship between internet gaming disorder and any attentional bias. This study confirmed that the greater the symptoms of game addiction, the stronger the attentional bias, especially in individuals with low AC-shifting ability. Therefore, it is necessary to examine sub-factors of AC in understanding the nature of attentional bias mechanisms in the development of internet game addiction and consider it as a psychological intervention to improve attentional bias.

Association Between Frailty and Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Elderly Women: A Retrospective Study

Introduction and HypothesisThis study evaluated the association between pelvic organ prolapse (POP), frailty, and sarcopenia to explore how POP treatment can extend healthy life expectancy in elderly women.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of prospectively collected data, comparing women with mild POP (stages 0–II) with those with advanced POP (stages III and IV). The inclusion criteria for this study were women who visited the clinic with at least one symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction and underwent imaging studies between April 2020 and November 2022. Initially, 119 patients met these inclusion criteria. Patients were excluded if they had a history of previous POP treatment, did not respond to the study survey, or were lost to follow-up. After applying these exclusion criteria, 82 patients were included in the final analysis, of whom 65 underwent surgery (laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy, colpocleisis, tension-free vaginal tape, and native tissue repair). Assessments included POP Quantification, Kihon Checklist, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quality of Life (P-QOL) questionnaire, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), and Incontinence Symptom Questionnaire (ICIQ-SF). Pelvic muscles were measured using MRI or CT. Immunohistochemical analysis of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), estrogen receptor beta , and androgen receptor was performed on surgical specimens from 43 patients.ResultsThe median age of participants was 75 years. Of the 82 patients, 48 (58.5%) were classified as frail or pre-frail, and 22 (26.8%) exhibited motor impairment. Advanced POP (stages 3 and 4) was seen in 41 patients. These patients had more motor function impairments (advanced, 16; mild, 6; p = 0.01). Patients with advanced POP had poorer P-QOL, ICIQ-SF (median: 9.5 vs 4, p = 0.006) and OABSS (7 vs 4, p = 0.008) scores, and smaller pubococcygeus muscle diameter (2.5 vs 3 cm, p = 0.017). Postoperatively, significant improvements were seen in P-QOL (all domains except personal relationships: p < 0.001), total IPSS (11 vs 4, p < 0.001), OABSS (6 vs 5, p = 0.033), and ICIQ-SF scores (6 vs 2, p < 0.001). ERα expression was associated with preoperative frailty (r = −0.37, p = 0.014).ConclusionsAdvanced POP correlates with poorer QOL, worse urinary symptoms, and reduced pubococcygeus muscle diameter, consistent with sarcopenia, compared with mild POP.

Efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for menopausal symptoms and quality of life in Korean perimenopausal women: A pilot randomized controlled trial

ObjectivesTherapeutic interventions are crucial for perimenopausal women, given the challenging physical and psychological symptoms they face. This study focused on the development and verification of the efficacy of a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) protocol designed specifically for Korean perimenopausal women. Study designA CBT protocol for perimenopausal women was newly developed based on theory and evidence. Forty menopausal women were randomly assigned to either the CBT group (n = 19) or treatment-as-usual (TAU) group (n = 21). Participants in the CBT group underwent 60-min weekly sessions for eight weeks. The TAU group received standard care from gynecologists. Main outcome measuresAt baseline and follow-up, participants completed the Menopausal Rating Scale (MRS), World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF), Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15), Menopause Emotional Symptom Questionnaire (MESQ), and Subjective Memory Complaints Questionnaire. ResultsThe CBT group showed significant changes in their MRS (F = 4.18, p = .048), WHOQOL-BREF (7.60, 0.009), GAD-7 (4.61, 0.038), PHQ-15 (5.49, 0.025), and MESQ scores (7.19, 0.011) compared to the TAU group. In the CBT group, changes in GAD-7 scores were correlated with PHQ-15 (ρ = 0.57, p < .05), MESQ (0.57, < 0.05), and WHOQOL-BREF scores (−0.53, < 0.05). ConclusionCBT prevents the worsening of menopausal and emotional symptoms, anxiety, and quality of life. CBT may have had a therapeutic effect through the following mechanisms: managing anxiety by changing perceptions of menopause through education and training for coping with various menopausal symptoms and improving self-efficacy in symptom management. Clinical trial registration numberKCT0007517.

Optimizing the outcome of non-pre-stented flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy regarding the quality of life, when to remove the stent?

ObjectivesTo investigate the safety of short-term stenting following flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (fURL) for patients without preoperative stents. Retaining double-J stent for 1–2 weeks after fURL is a common practice. At present, data on short-term stenting after non-pre-stented fURL is still lacking.Methods182 patients who met inclusion criteria were retrospectively divided into the 2-days group (2-day removal, 76 cases) and the 1-week group (1-week removal, 106 cases). The study endpoint was stent-associated adverse symptoms assessed by follow-up and completed validated questionnaires on postoperative days (POD) 7 and 12. A postoperative imaging review was performed 1 month after the surgery.ResultsNo statistical differences were found in the patients’ demographic and stone-related characteristics. The 2-days group showed fewer urinary tract symptoms and lower scores on the ureteral stent symptom questionnaire on POD 7: less backache during urination (p = 0.004), less hematuria (p = 0.031), less frequent urination (p = 0.004), lower urinary symptoms index (p < 0.001), lower general health index (p < 0.001), and lower performance index (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in fever (p = 0.372), visual analogue scale score (p = 0.760), and painkiller requirements (p = 0.160) on POD 7. The average general health score and work performance score remained significantly higher in the 1-week group patients at 5 days after removal compared to the 2-days group patients at 5 days after removal. (p < 0.001, p = 0.005). Five patients in the 2-days group and 15 patients in the 1-week group returned to the emergency department for additional treatments. No patient required rehospitalization. Stone-free rates were 85.5% in the 2-days group and 80.2% in the 1-week group (p = 0.499), respectively, and none of the patients got aggravating hydronephrosis.ConclusionsCompared to the common 1-week stent removal option, short-term stenting after non-pre-stented fURL is safe, which can enhance the patient’s quality of life.