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1.
New Frontiers in the Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.
Guzman-Martinez, L, Calfío, C, Farias, GA, Vilches, C, Prieto, R, Maccioni, RB
Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD. 2021;(s1):S51-S63
Abstract
One of the major puzzles in medical research and public health systems worldwide is Alzheimer's disease (AD), reaching nowadays a prevalence near 50 million people. This is a multifactorial brain disorder characterized by progressive cognitive impairment, apathy, and mood and neuropsychiatric disorders. The main risk of AD is aging; a normal biological process associated with a continuum dynamic involving a gradual loss of people's physical capacities, but with a sound experienced view of life. Studies suggest that AD is a break from normal aging with changes in the powerful functional capacities of neurons as well as in the mechanisms of neuronal protection. In this context, an important path has been opened toward AD prevention considering that there are elements of nutrition, daily exercise, avoidance of toxic substances and drugs, an active social life, meditation, and control of stress, to achieve healthy aging. Here, we analyze the involvement of such factors and how to control environmental risk factors for a better quality of life. Prevention as well as innovative screening programs for early detection of the disease using reliable biomarkers are becoming critical to control the disease. In addition, the failure of traditional pharmacological treatments and search for new drugs has stimulated the emergence of nutraceutical compounds in the context of a "multitarget" therapy, as well as mindfulness approaches shown to be effective in the aging, and applied to the control of AD. An integrated approach involving all these preventive factors combined with novel pharmacological approaches should pave the way for the future control of the disease.
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2.
Quality of life in people living with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder: A scoping review study.
Alford, K, Daley, S, Banerjee, S, Vera, JH
PloS one. 2021;(5):e0251944
Abstract
Quality of life (QoL) is recognized as an essential end point in the disease management of chronic conditions such as HIV with calls to include good QoL as a 'fourth 90' in the 90-90-90 testing and treatment targets introduced by World Health Organization in 2016. Cognitive impairments impact a broad spectrum of experiences and are a common issue effecting people living with HIV (PLWH). Despite this, few studies have examined QoL in PLWH who also have a cognitive disorder. This study aimed to synthesize and describe what is known about QoL in those living with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). A scoping review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted to identify how QoL has been investigated and measured in PLWH with HAND, and how PLWH with HAND report and describe their QoL. We searched PsychInfo, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science along with hand-searching reference lists from relevant studies found. Included studies were those published in English after 1st January 2003 which included PLWH with cognitive impairment not due to other pre-existing conditions. Fifteen articles met criteria for inclusion. Two studies measured QoL as a primary aim, with others including QoL assessment as part of a broader battery of outcomes. The MOS-HIV and SF-36 were the most commonly used measures of overall QoL, with findings generally suggestive of poorer overall QoL in PLWH with HAND, compared to PLWH without cognitive impairment. Studies which examined dimensions of QoL focused exclusively on functionality, level of independence, and psychological QoL domains. There is a considerable dearth of research examining QoL in PLWH with HAND. The initiatives which advocate for healthy aging and improved QoL in PLWH must be extended to include and understand the experiences those also living with cognitive impairment. Research is needed to understand the broad experiential impacts of living with these two complex, chronic conditions, to ensure interventions are meaningful to patients and potential benefits are not missed.
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3.
A scoping review of the caregiver burden of pediatric food allergy.
Golding, MA, Gunnarsson, NV, Middelveld, R, Ahlstedt, S, Protudjer, JLP
Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology. 2021;(5):536-547.e3
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although a number of articles have described the psychosocial impact of raising a child with a food allergy, recent attempts at synthesizing this literature have been narrow in focus or methodologically limited. Consequently, this study aimed to synthesize both the quantitative and qualitative literature to achieve a better understanding of the psychosocial and financial burdens faced by families who raise children with food allergy. DATA SOURCES Searches were performed on PubMed, Scopus, PsycInfo, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature databases for articles related to the psychosocial and financial burden experienced by individuals who care for a child with food allergy. STUDY SELECTIONS English language, original research articles were included in this review. RESULTS A total of 54 articles were deemed eligible for review. Results from the quantitative literature revealed that parents of children with food allergy (ie, food allergy and food protein-induced enterocolitis, proctocolitis, and enteropathy) consistently reported lower quality of life than their comparison groups. Within-group analyses suggest that this burden is increased for parents who manage multiple food allergies, severe food allergy, and comorbid allergic conditions. Thematic synthesis of the qualitative literature suggests that the psychosocial burden shouldered by parents of children with food allergy stems, in part, from the unpredictable threat of exposure and the practical and social burdens of managing a food allergy. In addition to psychosocial burdens, a small but growing body of literature suggests that families with food allergy also incur greater financial costs. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that pediatric food allergy imposes considerable burdens on parents both quantitatively and qualitatively.
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4.
Enhancing Mood, Cognition, and Quality of Life in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis.
Fernandez-Carbonell, C, Charvet, LE, Krupp, LB
Paediatric drugs. 2021;(4):317-329
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Abstract
Pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS), representing approximately 5% of all MS cases, affects the central nervous system during its ongoing development. POMS is most commonly diagnosed during adolescence but can occur in younger children as well. For pediatric patients with MS, it is critical to manage the full impact of the disease and monitor for any effects on school and social functioning. Disease management includes not only disease-modifying therapies but also strategies to optimize wellbeing. We review the interventions with the highest evidence of ability to improve the disease course and quality of life in POMS. High levels of vitamin D and a diet low in saturated fat are associated with lower relapse rates. Exercise ameliorates fatigue and sleep. Behavioral strategies for sleep hygiene and mood regulation can also improve fatigue and perceived health. POMS management should be addressed holistically, including assessing overall symptom burden as well as the psychological and functional impact of the disease.
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5.
Lifestyle (Medicine) and Healthy Aging.
Friedman, SM
Clinics in geriatric medicine. 2020;(4):645-653
Abstract
Healthy aging is a process that occurs over the life cycle. Health habits established early and practiced throughout life impact longevity, the ability to reach old age, and the health with which one experiences older adulthood. The new field of lifestyle medicine addresses root causes of disease by targeting nutrition, physical activity, well-being, stress management, substance use, connectedness, and sleep. As a result, lifestyle medicine can optimize the trajectory of aging, and promote targets that have been recognized in geriatric medicine as essential to well-being and quality of life, resulting in a compression of morbidity.
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6.
Quality of Life in Individuals with Diabetic Foot Syndrome.
Navarro-Flores, E, Cauli, O
Endocrine, metabolic & immune disorders drug targets. 2020;(9):1365-1372
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is a common long-term complication of diabetes mellitus. DFS has recently been associated with adverse effects that could further impair the quality of life of diabetic patients, and increase the social and economic burden, morbidity, and premature mortality of the disease. The main physio-pathological basis of DFS is due to diabetesinduced neuropathy and angiopathy in the lower limbs and feet. Patients diagnosed with DFS must significantly modify their daily habits in order to cope with signs and symptoms of DFS and this can alter their quality of life. The objective of this review is to summarize the evidence regarding the economic, physical and social limitations which can affect the quality of life (QoL) in patients with DFS, the effects of ulcers and amputations on QoL outcomes. RESULTS Different aspects related to DFS such as physical alterations, psychological complaints and even disorders, socio-economic difficulties can affect the quality of life of these patients. However, the QoL related to low socio-economic factors gave mixed results and physical activity, education and type of footwear can influence the outcomes. There is a general gender-dependent higher prevalence of DFS in men, although it depends on the geographical area. DFS often co-occurs with other diabetes-induced complications (retinopathy, nephropathy and cardiovascular disorders) and comorbid obesity generally worsens it. CONCLUSION Accessibility to health services aimed at reducing inequalities and constant health education and promotion and care regarding psychological and socio-economic issues should be continuously undertaken for individuals with DFS in order to improve their QoL.
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7.
Nutrition and gastroenterological support in end of life care.
Schütte, K, Middelberg-Bisping, K, Schulz, C
Best practice & research. Clinical gastroenterology. 2020;:101692
Abstract
Malnutrition and the broad spectrum of cancer cachexia frequently occur in patients with malignant disease of all tumour stages and impact on survival and quality of life of patients. Structured screening for the risk of malnutrition with validated tools and nutritional assessment are the prerequisite for adequate nutritional support in cancer patients. In patients receiving tumour directed therapy, the patients diet should meet the requirements to give optimal support, while later on comfort feeding is part of symptom focused palliation. The basis of nutritional support in a malnourished patient is nutritional counselling, and nutritional support can be offered within a step-up approach meeting the patient's needs. A combination of nutritional support with interventions targeting metabolic changes and physical exercise is suggested to treat cancer cachexia.
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8.
Body composition changes in patients with head and neck cancer under active treatment: a scoping review.
Ferrão, B, Neves, PM, Santos, T, Capelas, ML, Mäkitie, A, Ravasco, P
Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer. 2020;(10):4613-4625
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head and neck cancer patients have the second highest malnutrition prevalence, when compared with other oncological patients. They experience significant weight loss before diagnosis, during and after treatment, and even during the first year of follow-up. However, the prognostic value of weight loss depends on body mass index, and this may be associated with low skeletal muscle mass, masking its loss. Thus, weight loss itself poorly predicts outcome in head and neck cancer patients when compared with depleted skeletal muscle mass, illustrating the inadequacy of body mass index as an accurate method to reflect nutritional status. A synthesis is needed of the body composition changes occurring in head and neck cancer patients during treatment, as well as of the methods to assess it. OBJECTIVE The aim of this scoping review is to examine and map the body composition changes in head and neck cancer patients under oncological treatment with curative intent. A further objective is to determine which methods are used to assess body composition in these patients. INCLUSION CRITERIA Types of participants: The current review considered head and neck cancer patients, aged 18 years or older. CONCEPT This scoping review considered all studies that focused on the body composition changes. CONTEXT This scoping review considered the studies that evaluated the body composition changes in the context of treatment with curative intent. Surgical treatment approach was excluded to avoid excess heterogeneity in the data. Types of sources: This scoping review considered only published studies, with abstract available. SEARCH STRATEGY A three-step search strategy was undertaken. This review was limited to studies published in English, Spanish, and Portuguese during 2000-2019. DATA EXTRACTION The data extracted included author(s)/year of publication, aims and purpose of the study, sample size, study design, type of treatment, measurement points and component(s) of body composition evaluated, body composition assessment methods, and main results/findings. PRESENTATION OF RESULTS Head and neck cancer patients suffer from serious loss of lean body mass, skeletal muscle, or free fat mass, after treatment compared with baseline. Further, nutritional deterioration is evident and occurs up to 8-12 months after treatment. Bioelectrical impedance analysis is one of the body composition assessment tools that has the great advantage for being available on a regular basis for assessment of body composition in head and neck cancer patients. However, it cannot be recommended for clinical decision making until further validation. CONCLUSION Head and neck cancer patients experience a significant depletion of lean body mass, fat-free mass, and skeletal muscle, accompanied by body fat mass, while undergoing (chemo)radiotherapy. This can be demonstrated either by triceps skinfold thickness, bioelectrical impedance analysis, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, or computed tomography. This loss has a remarkable impact on their survival, on their quality of life, and on the risk for post-operative complications and may result in a reduced response to cancer treatment. Thus, body composition assessment should become an integral component of the care of head and neck cancer patients, beyond weight and body mass index, and should be carried out at different times throughout treatment.
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9.
Sexual dysfunction after stroke-A biopsychosocial perspective.
Na, Y, Htwe, M, Rehman, CA, Palmer, T, Munshi, S
International journal of clinical practice. 2020;(7):e13496
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Poststroke sexual dysfunction (PSSD) is widespread and underrecognised, affecting over half of stroke patients with significant effects on a patients' quality of life. We reviewed the postulated factors contributing to PSSD and explore the underrecognition by presenting a questionnaire study as well as examining existing literature. METHODS A literature search between January 1980 and December 2019 in electronic databases such as EMBASE, MEDLINE and PubMed was conducted. The questionnaire study involved all adult stroke patients attending the outpatient clinic over a 6-month period, containing multiple choice and open questions relating to prevalence, impact and provision provided for patients with PSSD. FINDINGS Poststroke sexual dysfunction is unlikely attributed solely to the physical effects of stroke. We present a biopsychosocial model summarising the wide range of factors which can contribute to PSSD. Less than 10% of patients receive any advice despite 90% of patients hoping for advice relating to sexual dysfunction in stroke. INTERPRETATION AND IMPLICATIONS A multidisciplinary, proactive involvement in screening and managing PSSD is required to successfully manage a commonly forgotten complication of stroke. As part of the wider theme of managing lifestyle factors poststroke (eg, smoking, driving advice, dietary advice, alcohol), the 'sexual function aspect' of patients' lives must not be ignored.
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10.
A Review of Literature on Health-Related Quality of Life of Retinoblastoma Survivors.
Belson, PJ, Eastwood, JA, Brecht, ML, Hays, RD, Pike, NA
Journal of pediatric oncology nursing : official journal of the Association of Pediatric Oncology Nurses. 2020;(2):116-127
Abstract
Background: Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumor of the eye that typically presents in early childhood and occurs in approximately 1 in 20,000 births. While active treatment of the tumor is typically completed in childhood, survivors often suffer from long-term effects from treatment including visual impairment, facial deformities, and fear of recurrence or secondary cancer. However, little is known how these long-term effects affect their health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Purpose: To review the literature on HRQOL in retinoblastoma survivors. Method: We searched three electronic databases from January 2005 to December 2018 for original research articles reporting on HRQOL or individual domains such as function, cognition, and psychosocial outcomes in retinoblastoma survivors. Results: A total of 59 articles were reviewed and 15 were identified as eligible. Five of the studies reported worse HRQOL in retinoblastoma survivors than controls or general population norms. Parent-proxy ratings were worse than survivors' self-reports. Conclusion: Our findings confirm the need for further HRQOL research to assess the factors influencing long-term outcomes associated with treatment in adolescent and young adult retinoblastoma survivors. By identifying any potential deficits in specific domains of HRQOL, early interventions might be developed to improve HRQOL in retinoblastoma survivors.