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Ageing Research Reviews Dec 2023Chronic exercise intervention is a non-pharmacological therapy suggested to improve cognitive function in various populations. However, few meta-analyses have assessed... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Chronic exercise intervention is a non-pharmacological therapy suggested to improve cognitive function in various populations. However, few meta-analyses have assessed the cognitive benefits associated with all FITT-VP variables (exercise frequency, intensity, bout duration time, type, volume or total intervention length, and progression) in healthy populations by age. Thus, this meta-analysis assessed the effects of each FITT-VP variable on cognitive function in healthy children, adults, and older adults. This study followed PRISMA guidelines. After searching PubMed and the Web of Science, we included 54 randomized controlled trials to examined the effects of FITT-VP variables on five cognitive domains: global cognition, executive function, memory, attention, and information processing. Moderation analyses assessed the effects by age and by each exercise variables. Exercise benefitted overall cognition and all subcognitive domains. Aerobic and resistance exercise showed the greatest benefits on global cognition and executive function respectively, whereas mind-body exercise benefitted memory. Among all populations, older adults showed the greatest benefits of exercise on global cognition, executive function, and memory compared with controls. Additional studies are needed to assess the effects of exercise on attention and information processing. This meta-analysis offers new insights on the relationships between cognition and FITT-VP exercise variables in healthy populations.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Cognition; Executive Function; Exercise; Exercise Therapy; Health Status; Cognitive Dysfunction
PubMed: 37924980
DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102116 -
Circulation Jan 2024Patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and obesity experience a high burden of symptoms and functional impairment, and a poor quality...
Effects of Semaglutide on Symptoms, Function, and Quality of Life in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction and Obesity: A Prespecified Analysis of the STEP-HFpEF Trial.
BACKGROUND
Patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and obesity experience a high burden of symptoms and functional impairment, and a poor quality of life. In the STEP-HFpEF trial (Research Study to Investigate How Well Semaglutide Works in People Living With Heart Failure and Obesity), once-weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg improved symptoms, physical limitations, and exercise function, and reduced inflammation and body weight. This prespecified analysis investigated the effects of semaglutide on the primary and confirmatory secondary end points across the range of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) scores at baseline and on all key summary and individual KCCQ domains.
METHODS
STEP-HFpEF randomly assigned 529 participants with symptomatic HF, an ejection fraction of ≥45%, and a body mass index of ≥30 kg/m to once-weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg or placebo for 52 weeks. Dual primary end points change in KCCQ-Clinical Summary Score (CSS) and body weight. Confirmatory secondary end points included change in 6-minute walk distance, a hierarchical composite end point (death, HF events, and change in KCCQ-CSS and 6-minute walk distance) and change in C-reactive protein. Patients were stratified by KCCQ-CSS tertiles at baseline. Semaglutide effects on the primary, confirmatory secondary, and select exploratory end points (N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide) were examined across these subgroups. Semaglutide effects on additional KCCQ domains (Total Symptom Score [including symptom burden and frequency], Physical Limitations Score, Social Limitations Score, Quality of Life Score, and Overall Summary Score) were also evaluated.
RESULTS
Baseline median KCCQ-CSS across tertiles was 37, 59, and 77 points, respectively. Semaglutide consistently improved primary end points across KCCQ tertiles 1 to 3 (estimated treatment differences [95% CI]: for KCCQ-CSS, 10.7 [5.4 to 16.1], 8.1 [2.7 to 13.4], and 4.6 [-0.6 to 9.9] points; for body weight, -11 [-13.2 to -8.8], -9.4 [-11.5 to -7.2], and -11.8 [-14.0 to -9.6], respectively; =0.28 and 0.29, respectively); the same was observed for confirmatory secondary and exploratory end points (>0.1 for all). Semaglutide-treated patients experienced improvements in all key KCCQ domains (estimated treatment differences, 6.7-9.6 points across domains; ≤0.001 for all). Greater proportion of semaglutide-treated versus placebo-treated patients experienced at least 5-, 10-, 15-, and 20-point improvements in all KCCQ domains (odds ratios, 1.6-2.9 across domains; <0.05 for all).
CONCLUSIONS
In patients with HFpEF and obesity, semaglutide produced large improvements in HF-related symptoms, physical limitations, exercise function, inflammation, body weight, and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, regardless of baseline health status. The benefits of semaglutide extended to all key KCCQ domains.
REGISTRATION
URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04788511.
Topics: Humans; Quality of Life; Heart Failure; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Stroke Volume; Obesity; Inflammation; Glucagon-Like Peptides
PubMed: 37952180
DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.123.067505 -
Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark... Feb 2024Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a recurrent, chronic, inflammatory, itchy skin disorder that affects up to 20% of the pediatric population and 10% of the adult population... (Review)
Review
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a recurrent, chronic, inflammatory, itchy skin disorder that affects up to 20% of the pediatric population and 10% of the adult population worldwide. Onset typically occurs early in life, and although cardinal disease features are similar across all ages, different age groups and ethnicities present distinct clinical characteristics. The disease imposes a significant burden in all health-related quality of life domains, both in children and adults, and a substantial economic cost both at individual and national levels. The pathophysiology of AD includes a complex and multifaceted interplay between the impaired dysfunctional epidermal barrier, genetic predisposition, and environmental contributors, such as chemical and/or biological pollutants and allergens, in the context of dysregulated TH2 and TH17 skewed immune response. Regarding the genetic component, the loss of function mutations encoding structural proteins such as filaggrin, a fundamental epidermal protein, and the more recently identified variations in the epidermal differentiation complex are well-established determinants resulting in an impaired skin barrier in AD. More recently, epigenetic factors have facilitated AD development, including the dysbiotic skin microbiome and the effect of the external exposome, combined with dietary disorders. Notably, the interleukin (IL)-31 network, comprising several cell types, including macrophages, basophils, and the generated cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of itch in AD, has recently been explored. Unraveling the specific AD endotypes, highlighting the implicated molecular pathogenetic mechanisms of clinically relevant AD phenotypes, has emerged as a crucial step toward targeted therapies for personalized treatment in AD patients. This review aims to present state-of-the-art knowledge regarding the multifactorial and interactive pathophysiological mechanisms in AD.
Topics: Child; Adult; Humans; Dermatitis, Atopic; Quality of Life; Skin; Cytokines; Genetic Predisposition to Disease
PubMed: 38420827
DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2902084 -
BMC Geriatrics Nov 2023Individuals 65 years or older are presumably more susceptible to becoming frail, which increases their risk of multiple adverse health outcomes. Reversing frailty has... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Individuals 65 years or older are presumably more susceptible to becoming frail, which increases their risk of multiple adverse health outcomes. Reversing frailty has received recent attention; however, little is understood about what it means and how to achieve it. Thus, the purpose of this scoping review is to synthesize the evidence regarding the impact of frail-related interventions on older adults living with frailty, identify what interventions resulted in frailty reversal and clarify the concept of reverse frailty.
METHODS
We followed Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage scoping review approach and conducted searches in CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science. We hand-searched the reference list of included studies and conducted a grey literature search. Two independent reviewers completed the title, abstract screenings, and full-text review using the eligibility criteria, and independently extracted approximately 10% of the studies. We critically appraised studies using Joanna Briggs critical appraisal checklist/tool, and we used a descriptive and narrative method to synthesize and analyze data.
RESULTS
Of 7499 articles, thirty met the criteria and three studies were identified in the references of included studies. Seventeen studies (56.7%) framed frailty as a reversible condition, with 11 studies (36.7%) selecting it as their primary outcome. Reversing frailty varied from either frail to pre-frail, frail to non-frail, and severe to mild frailty. We identified different types of single and multi-component interventions each targeting various domains of frailty. The physical domain was most frequently targeted (n = 32, 97%). Interventions also varied in their frequencies of delivery, intensities, and durations, and targeted participants from different settings, most commonly from community dwellings (n = 23; 69.7%).
CONCLUSION
Some studies indicated that it is possible to reverse frailty. However, this depended on how the researchers assessed or measured frailty. The current understanding of reverse frailty is a shift from a frail or severely frail state to at least a pre-frail or mildly frail state. To gain further insight into reversing frailty, we recommend a concept analysis. Furthermore, we recommend more primary studies considering the participant's lived experiences to guide intervention delivery.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Frailty; Independent Living; Frail Elderly
PubMed: 37978444
DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04309-y -
Experimental Gerontology Aug 2023We aimed to examine the association between intrinsic capacity (IC) and adverse outcomes of hospitalization. (Observational Study)
Observational Study
OBJECTIVES
We aimed to examine the association between intrinsic capacity (IC) and adverse outcomes of hospitalization.
DESIGN
A prospective observational cohort study.
SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS
We recruited patients aged 65 years or older who were admitted to the geriatric ward of an acute hospital between Oct 2019 and Sep 2022.
MEASUREMENTS
Each of the five IC domains (locomotion, cognition, vitality, sensory, and psychological capacity) was graded into three levels, and the composite IC score was calculated (0, lowest; 10, highest). Hospital-related outcomes were defined as in-hospital death, hospital-associated complications (HACs), length of hospital stay, and frequency of discharge to home.
RESULTS
In total, 296 individuals (mean age 84.7 ± 5.4 years, 42.7 % males) were analyzed. Mean composite IC score was 6.5 ± 1.8, and 95.6 % of participants had impairment in at least one IC domain. A higher composite IC score was independently associated with lower frequency of in-hospital death (odds ratio [OR] 0.59) and HACs (OR 0.71), higher frequency of discharge to home (OR 1.50), and shorter length of hospital stay (β = -0.24, p < 0.01). The locomotion, cognition, and psychological domains were independently associated with the occurrence of HACs, discharge destination, and length of hospital stay.
CONCLUSION
Evaluating IC was feasible in the hospital setting and was associated with outcomes of hospitalization. For older inpatients with decreased IC, integrated management may be required to achieve functional independence.
Topics: Male; Humans; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Female; Prospective Studies; Hospital Mortality; Hospitalization; Length of Stay; Patient Discharge
PubMed: 37380006
DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112247 -
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis &... Feb 2024While motor symptoms are well-known in ALS, non-motor symptoms are often under-reported and may have a significant impact on quality of life. In this study, we aimed to...
OBJECTIVE
While motor symptoms are well-known in ALS, non-motor symptoms are often under-reported and may have a significant impact on quality of life. In this study, we aimed to examine the nature and extent of non-motor symptoms in ALS.
METHODS
A 20-item questionnaire was developed covering the domains of autonomic function, sleep, pain, gastrointestinal disturbance, and emotional lability, posted online and shared on social media platforms to target people with ALS and controls.
RESULTS
A total of 1018 responses were received, of which 927 were complete from 506 people with ALS and 421 unaffected individuals. Cold limbs (p 1.66 × 10, painful limbs (p 6.14 × 10), and urinary urgency (p 4.70 × 10) were associated with ALS. People with ALS were more likely to report autonomic symptoms, pain, and psychiatric symptoms than controls (autonomic symptoms = 0.043, p 6.10 × 10, pain domain B = 0.18, p 3.72 × 10 and psychiatric domain = 0.173, p 1.32 × 10).
CONCLUSIONS
Non-motor symptoms in ALS are common. The identification and management of non-motor symptoms should be integrated into routine clinical care for people with ALS. Further research is warranted to investigate the relationship between non-motor symptoms and disease progression, as well as to develop targeted interventions to improve the quality of life for people with ALS.
Topics: Humans; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis; Quality of Life; Pain; Disease Progression
PubMed: 37798838
DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2023.2263868 -
Nutrients Oct 2023Public health nutrition occupies a paramount position in the overarching domains of health promotion and disease prevention, setting itself apart from nutritional...
Public health nutrition occupies a paramount position in the overarching domains of health promotion and disease prevention, setting itself apart from nutritional investigations concentrated at the individual level [...].
Topics: Public Health; Artificial Intelligence; Nutritional Status; Health Promotion; Nutrition Therapy
PubMed: 37836569
DOI: 10.3390/nu15194285 -
Open Heart Aug 2023Two interlinked surveys were organised by the British Heart Foundation Data Science Centre, which aimed to establish national priorities for cardiovascular imaging...
OBJECTIVES
Two interlinked surveys were organised by the British Heart Foundation Data Science Centre, which aimed to establish national priorities for cardiovascular imaging research.
METHODS
First a single time point public survey explored their views of cardiovascular imaging research. Subsequently, a three-phase modified Delphi prioritisation exercise was performed by researchers and healthcare professionals. Research questions were submitted by a diverse range of stakeholders to the question 'What are the most important research questions that cardiovascular imaging should be used to address?'. Of these, 100 research questions were prioritised based on their positive impact for patients. The 32 highest rated questions were further prioritised based on three domains: positive impact for patients, potential to reduce inequalities in healthcare and ability to be implemented into UK healthcare practice in a timely manner.
RESULTS
The public survey was completed by 354 individuals, with the highest rated areas relating to improving treatment, quality of life and diagnosis. In the second survey, 506 research questions were submitted by diverse stakeholders. Prioritisation was performed by 90 researchers or healthcare professionals in the first round and 64 in the second round. The highest rated questions were 'How do we ensure patients have equal access to cardiovascular imaging when it is needed?' and 'How can we use cardiovascular imaging to avoid invasive procedures'. There was general agreement between healthcare professionals and researchers regarding priorities for the positive impact for patients and least agreement for their ability to be implemented into UK healthcare practice in a timely manner. There was broad overlap between the prioritised research questions and the results of the public survey.
CONCLUSIONS
We have identified priorities for cardiovascular imaging research, incorporating the views of diverse stakeholders. These priorities will be useful for researchers, funders and other organisations planning future research.
Topics: Humans; Quality of Life; Research; Exercise; Health Personnel; Heart
PubMed: 37586846
DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2023-002378 -
The Lancet. Diabetes & Endocrinology Jul 2023Type 2 diabetes disparities in the USA persist in both the prevalence of disease and diabetes-related complications. We conducted a literature review related to diabetes... (Review)
Review
Type 2 diabetes disparities in the USA persist in both the prevalence of disease and diabetes-related complications. We conducted a literature review related to diabetes prevention, management, and complications across racial and ethnic groups in the USA. The objective of this review is to summarise the current understanding of diabetes disparities by examining differences between and within racial and ethnic groups and among young people (aged <18 years). We also examine the pathophysiology of diabetes as it relates to race and ethnic differences. We use a conceptual framework built on the socioecological model to categorise the causes of diabetes disparities across the lifespan looking at factors in five domains of health behaviours and social norms, public awareness, structural racism, economic development, and access to high-quality care. The range of disparities in diabetes prevalence and management in the USA calls for a community-engaged and multidisciplinary approach that must involve community partners, researchers, practitioners, health system administrators, and policy makers. We offer recommendations for each of these groups to help to promote equity in diabetes prevention and care in the USA.
Topics: Humans; United States; Adolescent; Ethnicity; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Prevalence; Healthcare Disparities; Quality of Health Care
PubMed: 37356445
DOI: 10.1016/S2213-8587(23)00129-8 -
International Journal of Nursing Studies Oct 2023Pressure ulcers are a major health concern. They have a significant impact on the healthcare system and individuals, reducing quality of life across several domains. In... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Pressure ulcers are a major health concern. They have a significant impact on the healthcare system and individuals, reducing quality of life across several domains. In community settings, self-management behaviours are central to their prevention. However, adherence with pressure ulcer prevention guidelines remains low, with little evidence guiding the relationship between patients and healthcare professionals to establish a concordant partnership.
OBJECTIVE
To synthesise evidence on factors contributing to community-based pressure ulcer prevention using the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour (COM-B) model of behaviour.
DESIGN
Mixed methods systematic review and narrative synthesis.
METHOD
Systematic searches were conducted in the CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases on 14th December 2022. Studies were eligible if they contained data on the factors associated with adherence and concordance with pressure ulcer prevention guidelines in the community for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Methodological quality was assessed using the Hawker tool. Findings were synthesised using the Theoretical Domains Framework. The resulting themes were mapped onto the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour (COM-B) model.
RESULTS
Thirty studies were included in the review, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research. The synthesis identified 12 of the 14 Theoretical Domains Framework domains, with knowledge, social influences, beliefs about consequences, and beliefs about capabilities the most prevalent. Although knowledge appears to be an important contributor to adherence with prevention guidelines, knowledge alone does not appear sufficient to achieve concordance. A concordant relationship was facilitated by healthcare professionals' knowledge, motivation to work alongside patients and their priorities, and interpersonal skills to build rapport and trust, whilst barriers included lack of healthcare professional skills to navigate sensitive issues, paternalistic views of patient compliance and organisational processes that impact building rapport.
CONCLUSIONS
Several psychosocial factors may affect the ability to achieve concordance between individuals, caregivers and healthcare professionals with pressure ulcer prevention guidelines in the community. However, data regarding the efficacy of behaviour change interventions targeting these constructs is limited, with further research required to guide intervention development in this area.
Topics: Humans; Pressure Ulcer; Quality of Life; Motivation; Health Personnel; Patient Compliance; Qualitative Research
PubMed: 37542960
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2023.104561