PROMIS PF CAT Outperforms the ODI and SF-36 Physical Function Domain in Spine Patients.
Brodke, Darrel S; Goz, Vadim; Voss, Maren W; Lawrence, Brandon D; Spiker, William Ryan; Hung, Man
2017-06-15
The Oswestry Disability Index v2.0 (ODI), SF36 Physical Function Domain (SF-36 PFD), and PROMIS Physical Function CAT v1.2 (PF CAT) questionnaires were prospectively collected from 1607 patients complaining of back or leg pain, visiting a university-based spine clinic. All questionnaires were collected electronically, using a tablet computer. The aim of this study was to compare the psychometric properties of the PROMIS PF CAT with the ODI and SF36 Physical Function Domain in the same patient population. Evidence-based decision-making is improved by using high-quality patient-reported outcomes measures. Prior studies have revealed the shortcomings of the ODI and SF36, commonly used in spine patients. The PROMIS Network has developed measures with excellent psychometric properties. The Physical Function domain, delivered by Computerized Adaptive Testing (PF CAT), performs well in the spine patient population, though to-date direct comparisons with common measures have not been performed. Standard Rasch analysis was performed to directly compare the psychometrics of the PF CAT, ODI, and SF36 PFD. Spearman correlations were computed to examine the correlations of the three instruments. Time required for administration was also recorded. One thousand six hundred seven patients were administered all assessments. The time required to answer all items in the PF CAT, ODI, and SF-36 PFD was 44, 169, and 99 seconds. The ceiling and floor effects were excellent for the PF CAT (0.81%, 3.86%), while the ceiling effects were marginal and floor effects quite poor for the ODI (6.91% and 44.24%) and SF-36 PFD (5.97% and 23.65%). All instruments significantly correlated with each other. The PROMIS PF CAT outperforms the ODI and SF-36 PFD in the spine patient population and is highly correlated. It has better coverage, while taking less time to administer with fewer questions to answer. 2.
Lix, Lisa M; Wu, Xiuyun; Hopman, Wilma; Mayo, Nancy; Sajobi, Tolulope T; Liu, Juxin; Prior, Jerilynn C; Papaioannou, Alexandra; Josse, Robert G; Towheed, Tanveer E; Davison, K Shawn; Sawatzky, Richard
2016-01-01
Self-reported health status measures, like the Short Form 36-item Health Survey (SF-36), can provide rich information about the overall health of a population and its components, such as physical, mental, and social health. However, differential item functioning (DIF), which arises when population sub-groups with the same underlying (i.e., latent) level of health have different measured item response probabilities, may compromise the comparability of these measures. The purpose of this study was to test for DIF on the SF-36 physical functioning (PF) and mental health (MH) sub-scale items in a Canadian population-based sample. Study data were from the prospective Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study (CaMos), which collected baseline data in 1996-1997. DIF was tested using a multiple indicators multiple causes (MIMIC) method. Confirmatory factor analysis defined the latent variable measurement model for the item responses and latent variable regression with demographic and health status covariates (i.e., sex, age group, body weight, self-perceived general health) produced estimates of the magnitude of DIF effects. The CaMos cohort consisted of 9423 respondents; 69.4% were female and 51.7% were less than 65 years. Eight of 10 items on the PF sub-scale and four of five items on the MH sub-scale exhibited DIF. Large DIF effects were observed on PF sub-scale items about vigorous and moderate activities, lifting and carrying groceries, walking one block, and bathing or dressing. On the MH sub-scale items, all DIF effects were small or moderate in size. SF-36 PF and MH sub-scale scores were not comparable across population sub-groups defined by demographic and health status variables due to the effects of DIF, although the magnitude of this bias was not large for most items. We recommend testing and adjusting for DIF to ensure comparability of the SF-36 in population-based investigations.
Pan, Shin-Liang; Liang, Huey-Wen; Hou, Wen-Hsuan; Yeh, Tian-Shin
2014-11-01
To assess the responsiveness of one generic questionnaire, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36), and one region-specific outcome measure, Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), in patients with traumatic injuries of lower extremities. A prospective and observational study of patients after traumatic injuries of lower extremities. Assessments were performed at baseline and 3 months later. In-patients and out-patients in two university hospitals in Taiwan. A convenience sample of 109 subjects were evaluated and 94 (86%) were followed. Not applicable. Assessments of responsiveness with distribution-based approach (effect size, standardized response mean [SRM], minimal detectable change) and anchor-based approach (receiver's operating curve analysis, ROC analysis). LEFS and physical component score (PCS) of SF-36 were all responsive to global improvement, with fair-to-good accuracy in discriminating between participants with and without improvement. The area under curve gained by ROC analysis for LEFS and SF-36 PCS was similar (0.65 vs. 0.70, p=0.26). Our findings revealed comparable responsiveness of LEFS and PCS of SF-36 in a sample of subjects with traumatic injuries of lower limbs. Either type of functional measure would be suitable for use in clinical trials where improvement in function was an endpoint of interest. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Scott, Elizabeth; Glass, Natalie; Wolf, Brian R.; Hettrich, Carolyn M.; Bollier, Matthew
2018-01-01
Objectives: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is a commonly performed orthopaedic procedure. PROMIS (Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System) was developed by the National Institutes of Health in an effort to advance patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments by developing question banks for major health domains. Our goal was to compare the responsiveness and construct validity of the PROMIS physical function (PF) computer adaptive test (CAT) with current PRO instruments utilized in patients who undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Methods: A total of 174 patients ages 14-53 scheduled to undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were asked to complete PROMIS PF-CAT, Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF36-PF and -GH), Marx activity rating scale (Marx), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Score (KOOS-ADL, -Sport, -QOL), and the EuroQol five dimensions questionnaire (EQ5D) at their preoperative visit. These surveys were repeated at six weeks and six months after surgery. Correlations between PRO instruments was defined as excellent (>0.7), excellent-good (0.61-0.7), good (0.4-0.6), and poor (0.2-0.3) using Spearman Correlation Coefficients. The effect size (Cohen d) and standardized response mean (SRM) were used to describe the responsiveness of each PRO at the 6 week and 6 month follow-up visits and were defined as small (0.2), medium (0.5) and large (0.8). Ceiling and floor effects were defined as present if ≥15% of participants scored the highest or lowest score on a PRO, respectively. Subgroup analyses were performed comparing change in PRO scores at follow-up between participants with and without additional arthroscopic procedures (meniscal debridement and/or repair, microfracture, or OATS vs ACL reconstruction only) using linear mixed models. Results: There were excellent and excellent-good correlations between the PROMIS PF-CAT and physical function PROs including the SF36-PF (r=0.75-0.80, p<.01), KOOS-ADL (r=0.62-0.70, p
Zhao, Longchao; Liu, Zhijun; He, Yan; Li, Ningxiu; Liu, Danping
2014-05-01
To explore the psychometric performances and applicability of SF-36v2 in assessment quality of life among urban residents in Chengdu. During Oct. to Dec., 2012, 2 186 adult urban residents with clear mind and well self-express were recruited in the study by multistage stratified cluster sampling method in Chengdu urban area. The survey questionnaires included general health condition and quality of life, which was adopted the SF-36v2. Internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability and construct validity were all analyzed as indicators of the psychometric performance. The survey released 2 186 questionnaires, with 2 182 ones returned and 2 178(99.8%) met the data standard. The scores of 8 scales in SF-36v2, including physical function (PF), role-physical (RP), bodily pain (BP), general health (GH), vitality (VT), social function (SF), role-emotion (RE) and mental health (MH), were 89.15 ± 17.56, 85.18 ± 22.52, 76.64 ± 17.80, 64.13 ± 19.56, 70.39 ± 17.31, 86.43 ± 17.35, 87.79 ± 19.24 and 80.61 ± 13.49, respectively; the floor effects were 0.28%, 0.41%, 0.23%, 0.28%, 0.09%, 0.05%, 0.14% and 0.23%, respectively; and the ceiling effects were 51.38%, 60.60%, 58.08%, 0.83%, 2.94%, 50.32%, 64.00% and 3.95%, respectively. The item-convergent validities were all achieved the standard (r = 0.40) except the item MH5 (Have you been happy?), and the total scaling success rate of item-convergent validity was 97.14%. The scales' success rates of item-discriminant validities for the SF, VT and MH scales were 93.75%, 56.25% and 97.50% respectively, while the rates of others were 100.00% and the total success rate was 96.43%. The internal reliability ranged from 0.724 to 0.974 across all the scales, except for SF (r = 0.603) and VT (r = 0.697). The two-week test-retest reliability ranged from 0.610 to 0.845. Within factor analysis, two common factors were confirmed, separately representing physical health and mental health, altogether contributing 64.4% of the
HRQOL using SF36 (generic specific) in liver cirrhosis.
Janani, K; Varghese, Joy; Jain, Mayank; Harika, Kavya; Srinivasan, Vijaya; Michael, Tom; Jayanthi, Venkataraman
2017-07-01
Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is influenced by the disease state, associated complications and their management. In patients with liver cirrhosis co-morbidity, severity of liver disease and their complications are likely to affect the QOL. The aim of the study was to determine the factors that are likely to influence the domains of HRQOL using SF-36 in patients with liver cirrhosis. For the study, 149 patients with liver cirrhosis were compared with age-gender matched healthy controls for physical and mental components of SF-36 score and the effects of age, co-morbidity severity of liver disease and complications of liver cirrhosis on HRQOL were assessed using the same questionnaire. Results of the study showed that except for body pain, all the patients had a significantly low individual and composite domain score (p-value <0.0001) compared to age-gender matched controls. Patients below 45 years, Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) C, a high model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and higher rates of complication had low scores for body pain (KW p <0.005) and those above 55 years, for physical function (p <0.05). Both the physical components had a major impact on mental composite score (MCS) (KW p <0.05). Co-morbidity that included diabetes, hypertension and hypothyroid states in various combinations had no effect on SF-36 scores while co-morbid conditions like musculoskeletal pain, arthralgia etc. affected physical domains (physical function, body pain and role physical) and physical component score (PCS) (KW p <0.01 to <0.0001). By linear regression, MELD had a direct and significant association with overall PCS and mental component score (MCS).
Barile, John P; Horner-Johnson, Willi; Krahn, Gloria; Zack, Matthew; Miranda, David; DeMichele, Kimberly; Ford, Derek; Thompson, William W
2016-10-01
The Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Days items are well known measures of health-related quality of life. The validity of the SF-36 for older adults and those with disabilities has been questioned. Assess the extent to which the SF-36 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Days items measure the same aspects of health; whether the SF-36 and the CDC unhealthy days items are invariant across gender, functional status, or the presence of chronic health conditions of older adults; and whether each of the SF-36's eight subscales is independently associated with the CDC Healthy Days items. We analyzed data from 66,269 adult Medicare advantage members age 65 and older. We used confirmatory factor analyses and regression modeling to test associations between the CDC Healthy Days items and subscales of the SF-36. The CDC Healthy Days items were associated with the SF-36 global measures of physical and mental health. The CDC physically unhealthy days item was associated with the SF-36 subscales for bodily pain, physical role limitations, and general health, while the CDC mentally unhealthy days item was associated with the SF-36 subscales for mental health, emotional role limitations, vitality and social functioning. The SF-36 physical functioning subscale was not independently associated with either of the CDC Healthy Days items. The CDC Healthy Days items measure similar domains as the SF-36 but appear to assess HRQOL without regard to limitations in functioning. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Barile, John P.; Horner-Johnson, Willi; Krahn, Gloria; Zack, Matthew; Miranda, David; DeMichele, Kimberly; Ford, Derek; Thompson, William W.
2017-01-01
Background The Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Days items are well known measures of health-related quality of life. The validity of the SF-36 for older adults and those with disabilities has been questioned. Objective Assess the extent to which the SF-36 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Healthy Days items measure the same aspects of health; whether the SF-36 and the CDC unhealthy days items are invariant across gender, functional status, or the presence of chronic health conditions of older adults; and whether each of the SF-36’s eight subscales is independently associated with the CDC Healthy Days items. Methods We analyzed data from 66,269 adult Medicare advantage members age 65 and older. We used confirmatory factor analyses and regression modeling to test associations between the CDC Healthy Days items and subscales of the SF-36. Results The CDC Healthy Days items were associated with the SF-36 global measures of physical and mental health. The CDC physically unhealthy days item was associated with the SF-36 subscales for bodily pain, physical role limitations, and general health, while the CDC mentally unhealthy days item was associated with the SF-36 subscales for mental health, emotional role limitations, vitality and social functioning. The SF-36 physical functioning subscale was not independently associated with either of the CDC Healthy Days items. Conclusions The CDC Healthy Days items measure similar domains as the SF-36 but appear to assess HRQOL without regard to limitations in functioning. PMID:27259343
Bagheri, Shirin; Hansson, Emma; Manjer, Jonas; Troëng, Thomas; Brorson, Håkan
2017-01-01
Abstracts Background: Arm lymphedema after breast cancer surgery affects women both from physical and psychological points of view. Lymphedema leads to adipose tissue deposition. Liposuction and controlled compression therapy (CCT) reduces the lymphedema completely. Methods and Results: Sixty female patients with arm lymphedema were followed for a 1-year period after surgery. The 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) was used to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Patients completed the SF-36 questionnaire before liposuction, and after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Preoperative excess arm volume was 1365 ± 73 mL. Complete reduction was achieved after 3 months and was sustained during follow-up. The adipose tissue volume removed at surgery was 1373 ± 56 mL. One month after liposuction, better scores were found in mental health. After 3 months, an increase in physical functioning, bodily pain, and vitality was detected. After 1 year, an increase was also seen for social functioning. The physical component score was higher at 3 months and thereafter, while the mental component score was improved at 3 and 12 months. Compared with SF-36 norm data for the Swedish population, only physical functioning showed lower values than the norm at baseline. After liposuction, general health, bodily pain, vitality, mental health, and social functioning showed higher values at various time points. Conclusions: Liposuction of arm lymphedema in combination with CCT improves patients HRQoL as measured with SF-36. The treatment seems to target and improve both the physical and mental health domains. PMID:28135120
Hoffner, Mattias; Bagheri, Shirin; Hansson, Emma; Manjer, Jonas; Troëng, Thomas; Brorson, Håkan
2017-03-01
Abstracts Background: Arm lymphedema after breast cancer surgery affects women both from physical and psychological points of view. Lymphedema leads to adipose tissue deposition. Liposuction and controlled compression therapy (CCT) reduces the lymphedema completely. Sixty female patients with arm lymphedema were followed for a 1-year period after surgery. The 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) was used to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Patients completed the SF-36 questionnaire before liposuction, and after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Preoperative excess arm volume was 1365 ± 73 mL. Complete reduction was achieved after 3 months and was sustained during follow-up. The adipose tissue volume removed at surgery was 1373 ± 56 mL. One month after liposuction, better scores were found in mental health. After 3 months, an increase in physical functioning, bodily pain, and vitality was detected. After 1 year, an increase was also seen for social functioning. The physical component score was higher at 3 months and thereafter, while the mental component score was improved at 3 and 12 months. Compared with SF-36 norm data for the Swedish population, only physical functioning showed lower values than the norm at baseline. After liposuction, general health, bodily pain, vitality, mental health, and social functioning showed higher values at various time points. Liposuction of arm lymphedema in combination with CCT improves patients HRQoL as measured with SF-36. The treatment seems to target and improve both the physical and mental health domains.
Construct validation of SF-36 Malay version among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yap, Bee Wah; Jannoo, Zeinab; Razali, Nornadiah Mohd; Ghani, Nor Azura Md.; Lazim, Mohamad Alias
2015-02-01
The Short Form 36 (SF-36) is one of the most widely used generic health status measure. This study used the SF-36 Health Survey instrument to investigate the functional health and well-being of Malay Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients in Malaysia. The survey was carried out in three local hospitals in Selangor. The method of questionnaire administration was both self-administered and interviewer administered. A total of 354 questionnaires was returned, but only 295 questionnaires with no missing data were analyzed. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to confirm the first-order and third-order CFA models. The higher order analyses included a third-order CFA models with two second-order factors (physical and mental component) and three second-order factors (physical, general well-being and mental health) and both showed satisfactory model fit indices. This study confirmed the multidimensional factor structure of the SF-36.
Evaluating the SF-36 Health Survey (Version 2) in Older Vietnamese Americans
Ngo-Metzger, Quyen; Sorkin, Dara H.; Mangione, Carol M.; Gandek, Barbara; Hays, Ron D.
2014-01-01
Objectives The SF-36® Health Survey (Version 2; SF-36) was evaluated among older Vietnamese Americans to determine whether underlying dimensions of physical and mental health were similar to those of other groups in the United States. Method Field testing of participants from senior centers. Results The study provided support for the reliability and validity of the SF-36. Structural equation modeling provided confirmation of physical and mental health factors. However, the factor loadings for the SF-36 scales were more consistent with previous results from Asian countries than the typical pattern observed in the United States. Discussion As the older populations in the United States become more diverse, it is important to have standardized health-related quality of life measures. However, the conceptualization of physical and mental health and associations among different scales may be different for Asian immigrants than for other groups. Thus, the interpretation of the SF-36 scores needs to account for cultural differences. PMID:18381886
Harkonmäki, Karoliina; Lahelma, Eero; Martikainen, Pekka; Rahkonen, Ossi; Silventoinen, Karri
2006-01-01
To examine the associations of mental health functioning with intentions to retire early among ageing municipal employees. Cross-sectional survey data (n = 7,765) from the Helsinki Health Study in 2000, 2001, and 2002 were used. Intentions to retire early were sought with a question: "Have you considered retiring before normal retirement age?" The dependent variable was divided into three categories: 1 = no intentions to retire early; 2 = weak intentions; 3 = strong intentions. Mental health functioning was measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) mental component summary (MCS). Other variables included age, sex, physical health functioning (SF-36), limiting longstanding illness, socioeconomic status, and spouse's employment status. Multinomial regression analysis was used to examine the association of mental health functioning with intentions to retire early. Employees with the poorest mental health functioning were much more likely to report strong intentions to retire early (OR 6.09, 95% CI 4.97-7.47) than those with the best mental health functioning. Adjustments for physical health, socioeconomic status, and spouse's employment status did not substantially affect this association. The findings highlight the importance of mental health for intentions to retire early. Strategies aimed at keeping people at work for longer should emphasize the importance of mental well-being and the prevention of poor mental health. More evidence is needed on why mental problems among ageing baby-boomer employees are giving rise to increasing social consequences, although the overall prevalence of mental problems has not increased.
Relationship between Short-Form Health SF36 Questionnaire and oxygen uptake in healthy workers.
Oscar García López, Oscar; Duarte Bedoya, Álvaro; Jiménez Gutiérrez, Alfonso; Burgos Postigo, Silvia
2016-03-01
Physical activity is associated with better health levels, and cardiopulmonary fitness is recognized as one of the best indicators of physical performance, which can be related with some items of quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the QoL and cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) of healthy workers, measured with the Short-Form Health Survey SF36 and incremental cardiopulmonary Test. Sample was formed by 250 healthy workers (90 men, mean age 37.25 and 160 female, mean age 37.91). Analyzing the results, VO2's Mean values were higher in men (39.00 mL/kg/min SD 7.56) than in women (29.70 mL/kg/min SD 5.73) with significant differences (P<0.01). We found differences in all dimensions of SF36 indicating that men had higher scores than women, but significant differences between both are present only in physical functioning (PF) (P<0.01). Correlating the values obtained in the domains of Questionnaire SF36 and the Vo2 Max, correlation was significant (positive) in PF (0.276), bodily pain (0.189), general health (0.155), vitality (0.241) and mental health (0.129). Results showed that better cardiorespiratory fitness is related to higher scores in SF36. These findings suggest that if the values of oxygen uptake in healthy workers are higher, results in SF36 will be better. Therefore it can be assumed that having a good fitness means having a better QoL.
[Analysis of quality of life using the generic SF-36 questionnaire in patients with heart failure].
López Castro, J; Cid Conde, L; Fernández Rodríguez, V; Failde Garrido, J M; Almazán Ortega, R
2013-01-01
Heart failure is one of the major chronic diseases that affect health related quality of life. The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of life in patients with New York Heart Association functional class I-III using the SF-36 on a cohort of survivors of the EPICOUR Study Group and compare the quality of life with the general Spanish population of the same sex and age group. A cohort study, observational, and prospective study was conducted on survivors of the EPICOUR Study Group, on whom a clinical-progression-outcome review was performed along with the SF-36. The quality of life was studied in 50 patients (60% male). The average age of men was 64.8 years and women 68.3. When analyzing the SF-36, it was observed that the results were lower in the physical dimensions than in the mental dimensions. The quality of life worsened with increasing functional class (statistically significant differences for scales of physical functioning, social functioning and borderline significance in mental health scale). When comparing patients with the general population of the same age and sex, patients with heart failure showed lower scores on all scales (significant differences in physical functioning, body pain, vitality, and social role for men, and physical function and emotional role for women). Heart failure causes a negative impact on quality of life, physical functioning, as well as psychosocial function, with the impairment becoming worse with increased functional class. Copyright © 2013 SECA. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.
Xu, Jianglin; Lin, Shu-Fang; Dean, Sandie Guerra; Lazarus, J. Michael; Hakim, Raymond M.
2010-01-01
Background and objectives: The Short Form 12 (SF-12) has not been validated for long-term dialysis patients. The study compared physical and mental component summary (PCS/MCS) scores from the SF-36 with those from the embedded SF-12 in a national cohort of dialysis patients. Design, setting, participants, & measurements: All 44,395 patients who had scorable SF-36 and SF-12 from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2006, and were treated at Fresenius Medical Care, North America facilities were included. Death and first hospitalization were followed for up to 1 year from the date of survey. Correlation and agreement were obtained between PCS-36 and PCS-12 and MCS-36 and MCS-12; then Cox models were constructed to compare associated hazard ratios (HRs) between them. Results: Physical and mental dimensions both exhibited excellent intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.94. Each incremental point for both PCS-12 and PCS-36 was associated with a 2.4% lower adjusted HR of death and 0.4% decline in HR for first hospitalization (both P < 0.0001). Corresponding improvement in HR of death for each MCS point was 1.2% for MCS-12 and 1.3% for MCS-36, whereas both had similar 0.6% lower HR for hospitalization per point (all P < 0.0001). Conclusions: The use of the SF-12 alone or as part of a larger survey is valid in dialysis patients. Composite scores from the SF-12 and SF-36 have similar prognostic association with death and hospitalization risk. Prospective longitudinal studies of SF-12 surveys that consider responsiveness to specific clinical, situational, and interventional changes are needed in this population. PMID:20019120
Normative Data for the Singapore English and Chinese SF-36 Version 2 Health Survey.
Sow, Wei Ting; Wee, Hwee Lin; Wu, Yi; Tai, E-Shyong; Gandek, Barbara; Lee, Jeannette; Ma, Stefan; Heng, Derrick; Thumboo, Julian
2014-01-01
The aim of this study is to report normative data for the Short-Form 36 version 2 (SF-36v2) for assessing health-related quality of life, in the Singapore general population. Data for English and Chinese-speaking participants of the Singapore Prospective Study Programme were analysed. The SF-36v2 scores were norm-based with the English-speaking Singapore general population as reference and reported by age (in decades), gender and ethnicity as well as for the 5 most prevalent chronic medical conditions. Scores were reported separately for the English and Chinese language versions. A total of 6151 English-speaking (61.5% Chinese and 19.2% Malay) and 1194 Chinese-speaking participants provided complete data. Mean (SD) age of all participants was 49.6 (12.58) years with 52.4% being women. In both languages, women reported lower scores than men on all scales. Among the chronic medical conditions, stroke had the largest impact on all English SF-36v2 scales and on 3 Chinese SF-36v2 scales (role-physical, general health and social functioning). We have provided detailed normative data for the Singapore English and Chinese SF-36v2, which would be valuable in furthering HRQoL research in Singapore and possibly the region.
Angst, Felix; Verra, Martin L; Lehmann, Susanne; Gysi, Françoise; Benz, Thomas; Aeschlimann, André
2012-02-01
To determine and compare the sensitivity to change of the condition-specific cervical Northern American Spine Society (NASS) and the generic Short Form 36 (SF-36). Prospective cohort study. One hundred and seventy five patients after whiplash injury. Four-week inpatient interdisciplinary pain management programme. MAIN MEASURES, ANALYSIS: Responsiveness of the NASS and the SF-36 was quantified by effect size and standardized response mean and compared within the same construct by the modified Jacknife test. Ability to detect improvement was compared using sensitivities determined from receiver operating characteristics curves. In pain, the NASS was comparable responsive to the SF-36 at the one-month follow-up (n = 175): effect sizes: 0.62 (NASS) versus 0.61 (SF-36), P = 0.914. The NASS was less responsive than the SF-36 in function: 0.23 versus 0.63, P < 0.001 and in pain+function: 0.35 versus 0.58 (P = 0.001). These relationships remained consistent using standardized response means, at the six-month follow-up (n = 103), and in the comparison of the sensitivities. Sensitivities at one month, pain: 70% (NASS) versus 62% (SF-36), P = 0.234; function: 65% versus 80%, P = 0.002; pain+function: 68% versus 78%, P = 0.035. The six-month data were similar. The generic SF-36 was more responsive in function and equally responsive in pain when compared to the condition-specific NASS. The SF-36 can be recommended as a responsive instrument for measurement of pain and function in chronic whiplash syndrome.
Hoffman, D L; Dukes, E M
2008-01-01
Objective The current review describes how the health status profile of people with fibromyalgia (FM) compares to that of people in the general population and patients with other health conditions. Methods A review of 37 studies of FM that measured health status with the 36-item Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) or the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12). Results Studies performed worldwide showed that FM groups were significantly more impaired than people in the general population on all eight health status domains assessed. These domains include physical functioning, role functioning difficulties caused by physical problems, bodily pain, general health, vitality (energy vs. fatigue), social functioning, role functioning difficulties caused by emotional problems and mental health. FM groups had mental health summary scores that fell 1 standard deviation (SD) below the general population mean, and physical health summary scores that fell 2 SD below the general population mean. FM groups also had a poorer overall health status compared to those with other specific pain conditions. FM groups had similar or significantly lower (poorer) physical and mental health status scores compared to those with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, myofacial pain syndrome, primary Sjögren's syndrome and others. FM groups scored significantly lower than the pain condition groups mentioned above on domains of bodily pain and vitality. Health status impairments in pain and vitality are consistent with core features of FM. Conclusions People with FM had an overall health status burden that was greater in magnitude compared to people with other specific pain conditions that are widely accepted as impairing. Review Criteria Studies in this review were identified through a search of electronic databases (MEDLINE: 1990–2006; EMBASE: 1990–2006). Search terms included: ‘fibromyalgia’, ‘health status’,
Ko, Sangbong; Chae, Seungbum
2017-07-01
Cross-sectional study. To determine the correlation between SF-36 (a measure for overall health status in patients) and Oswestry-Disability Index (ODI) or Rolland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) confined to spine according to the type of pain from the spine. Data showed moderate correlation between ODI and SF-36 Physical Component Score (PCS), Physical Functioning (PF) (r=-0.46), Physical Role Functioning (RP) (r=-0.284), Bodily Pain (BP) (r=-0.327), and Mental Component Score (MCS), Emotional Role Functioning (r=-0.250), Social Role Functioning (r=0.254), Vitality (r=0.296). Between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2013, a total of 69 patients were enrolled in this study. They were diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis and underwent decompression surgery such as laminotomy in this hospital. The 3 standardized questionnaires (ODI, RMDQ, and SF-36) were given to these patients, at least 1 year after the surgery. ODI and SF-36 had a statistically significant (P=0.001) and moderate correlation. Small correlations were also seen between Physical Functioning (r=-0.46), Physical Role Functioning (r=-0.284), and Bodily Pain (r=-0.327) of SF-36 PCS and ODI, and between Emotional Role Functioning (r=-0.250), Social Role Functioning (r=-0.254), and Vitality (r=-0.296) of SF-36 Mental Component Score and ODI. Items in ODI for the level of pain while standing and traveling were mostly related to axial back pain, while item of lifting was related to referred buttock pain. Sleeping disturbance section in the ODI was mainly caused by radiated leg pain. In addition, RMDQ was also associated to the 3 types of pain. Moderate correlation was found between ODI or RMDQ as a condition-specific outcome and the SF-36, indicating overall health status. ODI was found to be a more adequate measure to evaluate axial back pain rather than referred pain or radiating pain. RMDQ was adequate to measure the health status and to evaluate the 3 types of spine pain. These 3 instruments could
Quality of Life in rural and urban populations in Lebanon using SF-36 Health Survey
Sabbah, Ibtissam; Drouby, Nabil; Sabbah, Sanaa; Retel-Rude, Nathalie; Mercier, Mariette
2003-01-01
Background Measuring health status in a population is important for the evaluation of interventions and the prediction of health and social care needs. Quality of life (QoL) studies are an essential complement to medical evaluation but most of the tools available in this area are in English. In order to evaluated QoL in rural and urban areas in Lebanon, the short form 36 health survey (SF-36) was adapted into Arabic. Methods SF-36 was administered in a cross-sectional study, to collect sociodemographic and environmental variables as well as self reported morbidity. We analysed a representative sample containing 1632 subjects, from whom we randomly picked 524 subjects aged 14 years and over. The translation, cultural adaptation and validation of the SF-36 followed the International Quality of Life Assessment methodology. Multivariate analysis (generalized linear model) was performed to test the effect of habitat (rural on urban areas) on all domains of the SF-36. Results The rate of missing data is very low (0.23% of items). Item level validation supported the assumptions underlying Likert scoring. SF-36 scale scores showed wide variability and acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha >0.70), factor analysis yielded patterns of factor correlation comparable to that found in the U.S.A and France. Patients resident in rural areas had higher vitality scores than those in urban areas. Older people reported more satisfaction with some domains of life than younger people, except for physical functioning. The QoL of women is poorer than men; certain symptoms and morbidity independently influence the domains of SF-36 in this population. Conclusion The results support the validity of the SF-36 Arabic version. Habitat has a minor influence on QoL, women had a poor QoL, and health problems had differential impact on QoL. PMID:12952543
Stansfeld, S A; Bosma, H; Hemingway, H; Marmot, M G
1998-01-01
To assess whether work characteristics and social support are predictors of physical, psychological, and social functioning. Work characteristics (Karasek and Siegrist models) and social support at baseline were used to predict health functioning measured by the SF-36 General Health Survey 5 years later in a prospective cohort study of 10,308 British male and female civil servants. Effort-reward imbalance and negative aspects of close relationships predicted poor physical, psychological, and social functioning after adjustment for the potential confounding effects of age, employment grade, baseline ill health, and negative affectivity. These psychosocial characteristics seem to act in a similar way in the healthy and those with existing illness. Psychological demands at work in women, and low confiding/emotional support in men, also predicted poor functioning. Etiologically. these effects are not mediated through health-related behaviors. Negative aspects of work (high demands and effort-reward imbalance) and negative aspects of close relationships are independent powerful predictors of poor health functioning. They may have an etiological role, which is independent of baseline illness.
Karkoulias, K; Lykouras, D; Sampsonas, F; Karaivazoglou, K; Sargianou, M; Drakatos, P; Spiropoulos, K; Assimakopoulos, K
2013-02-01
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common disorder defined by repeated episodes of airflow cessation (apneas)leading to arterial hypoxemia and sleep disruption. OSAS has been associated with increased morbidity, mortality and diminished quality of life so far. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the impact of OSAS on patients' Quality of Life, as measured by the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36). Two hundred and forty five subjects referred to the sleep laboratory and underwent full polysomnography overnight. Prior to sleep study onset, we registered height and weight, medical history, smoking habit, drug consumption. Afterwards, each patient completed the SF-36. Eighty subjects not diagnosed with sleep apnea [apnea hypopnea index (AHI < 5)] were excluded. Therefore, 165 subjects (121 male and 44 female) remained. Statistical analysis revealed that in patients with respiratory disturbance index (RDI) ≥ 15, (n = 115), RDI was independently associated with lower performance in role limitations due to physical problems (p = 0.005). Additionally, RDI was the only factor associated with decreased vitality (p = 0.014) and mental health scores (p = 0.047). In the same patient subgroup, body mass index (BMI) and age were associated with poorer scores in physical functioning (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). BMI was an independent clinical predictor of worse scores in bodily pain (p = 0.006) general health (p = 0.006), social functioning (p = 0.025) and role limitations due to emotional problems (p = 0.004).
Physical activity and physical function changes in obese individuals after gastric bypass surgery.
Josbeno, Deborah A; Jakicic, John M; Hergenroeder, Andrea; Eid, George M
2010-01-01
Little is known about the effects of gastric bypass surgery (GBS) on physical activity and physical function. We examined the physical activity, physical function, psychosocial correlates to physical activity participation, and health-related quality of life of patients before and after GBS. A total of 20 patients were assessed before and 3 months after GBS. Physical activity was assessed using the 7-day physical activity recall questionnaire and a pedometer worn for 7 days. Physical function was assessed using the 6-minute walk test, Short Physical Performance Battery, and the physical function subscale of the Medical Outcomes Short Form-36 (SF-36). The Physical Activity Self-Efficacy questionnaire, the Physical Activity Barriers and Outcome Expectations questionnaire, the SF-36, and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale were also administered. Physical activity did not significantly increase from before (191.1 +/- 228.23 min/wk) to after (231.7 +/- 230.04 min/wk) GBS (n = 18); however, the average daily steps did significantly increase (from 4621 +/- 3701 to 7370 +/- 4240 steps/d; n = 11). The scores for the 6-minute walk test (393 +/- 62.08 m to 446 +/- 41.39 m; n = 17), Short Physical Performance Battery (11.2 +/- 1.22 to 11.7 +/- .57; n = 18), physical function subscale of the SF-36 (65 +/- 18.5 to 84.1 +/- 19.9), and the total SF-36 (38.2 +/- 23.58 to 89.7 +/- 15.5; n = 17) increased significantly. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale score decreased significantly for low back (3.5 +/- 1.8 to 1.7 +/- 2.63), knee (2.4 +/- 2.51 to 1.0 +/- 1.43), and foot/ankle (2.3 +/- 2.8 to 0.9 +/- 2.05) pain. No significant changes were found in the Physical Activity Self-Efficacy questionnaire or the Physical Activity Barriers and Outcome Expectations questionnaire. GBS improves physical function, health-related quality of life, and self-reported pain and results in a modest improvement in physical activity. These are important clinical benefits of surgical weight loss. Long-term follow
Assessment of health-related quality of life in spine treatment: conversion from SF-36 to VR-12.
Gornet, Matthew F; Copay, Anne G; Sorensen, Katrine M; Schranck, Francine W
2018-07-01
Health-related quality-of-life outcomes have been collected with the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Short Form 36 (SF-36) survey. Boston University School of Public Health has developed algorithms for the conversion of SF-36 to Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12) Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the conversion of the SF-36 to VR-12 PCS and MCS scores. Preoperative and postoperative SF-36 were collected from patients who underwent lumbar or cervical surgery from a single surgeon between August 1998 and January 2013. Short Form 36 PCS and MCS scores were calculated following their original instructions. The SF-36 answers were then converted to VR-12 PCS and MCS scores following the algorithm provided by the Boston University School of Public Health. The mean score, preoperative to postoperative change, and proportions of patients who reach the minimum detectable change were compared between SF-36 and VR-12. A total of 1,968 patients (1,559 lumbar and 409 cervical) had completed preoperative and postoperative SF-36. The values of the SF-36 and VR-12 mean scores were extremely similar, with score differences ranging from 0.77 to 1.82. The preoperative to postoperative improvement was highly significant (p<.001) for both SF-36 and VR-12 scores. The mean change scores were similar, with a difference of up to 0.93 for PCS and up to 0.37 for MCS. Minimum detectable change (MDC) values were almost identical for SF-36 and VR-12, with a difference of 0.12 for PCS and up to 0.41 for MCS. The proportions of patients whose change in score reached MDC were also nearly identical for SF-36 and VR-12. About 90% of the patients above SF-36 MDC were also above VR-12 MDC. The converted VR-12 scores, similar to the SF-36 scores, detect a significant postoperative improvement in PCS and MCS scores. The calculated MDC values and the proportions of patients whose score improvement reach MDC
Telephone vs. mail survey gives different SF-36 quality-of-life scores among cancer survivors.
Buskirk, Trent D; Stein, Kevin D
2008-10-01
To assess whether SF-36 quality-of-life (QOL) subscale scores varied across two survey modes controlling for cancer type and diagnosis cohort. Stratified random samples of 720 cancer survivors from six cancer types and three time-since diagnosis cohorts were selected from two state cancer registries. Selected survivors were randomly assigned to mail, telephone, or choice of these for survey administration. This study analyzes completed questionnaires obtained from 140 and 155 survivors who were assigned to telephone and mail, respectively. A significant multivariate effect for survey mode was noted. Mean levels for each subscale controlling for age and accounting for cancer type were higher for telephone compared to mail respondents; significant differences were noted for vitality, role physical, and mental health. The impact of cancer type on QOL subscales was not significant, and the effect of mode was consistent across cancer type. Previous findings in mode effects for the SF-36 are reproduced here among cancer survivors who may feel more comfortable revealing physical and emotional deficits via mail rather than by telephone. For cancer survivors, it may be that "social desirability" favors responses implying more functioning be it perceived, mental, or physical.
Rampazo-Lacativa, Mariana Kátia; Santos, Ariene Angelini dos; Coimbra, Arlete Maria Valente; D'Elboux, Maria José
2015-01-01
Quality-of-life results have increasingly been evaluated among patients undergoing joint replacements. The objective of this study was to compare two assessment instruments for health-related quality of life (one generic and the other specific), among elderly patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. Cross-sectional descriptive study in a reference hospital in the region of Campinas. The subjects were 88 elderly outpatients aged 60 years or over who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty. Two instruments for assessing health-related quality of life were applied: the generic Medical Study 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the specific Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Cronbach's alpha and the ceiling and floor effects of the instruments were evaluated. The scores from both instruments showed that issues of a physical nature affected these elderly people's quality of life most. The pain and stiffness dimensions of WOMAC showed ceiling effects and only the functional capacity and pain dimensions of the SF-36 did not show the ceiling effect. The SF-36 presented floor effects in the dimensions of physical and emotional aspects. Cronbach's alpha was considered satisfactory in both instruments (α > 0.70). The floor and ceiling effects that were observed suggest that these instruments may present some limitations in detecting changes to the majority of the SF-36 dimensions, except for functional capacity and pain, and to the pain and stiffness dimensions of WOMAC, when applied to elderly people with total hip arthroplasty.
Zhou, Kaina; Zhuang, Guihua; Zhang, Hongmei; Liang, Peifeng; Yin, Juan; Kou, Lingling; Hao, Mengmeng; You, Lijuan
2013-01-01
To test psychometrics of the Short Form 36 Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2) and the Quality of Life Scale for Drug Addicts (QOL-DAv2.0) in Chinese mainland patients with methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). A total of 1,212 patients were recruited from two MMT clinics in Xi'an, China. Reliability was estimated with Cronbach's α and intra-class correlation (ICC). Convergent and discriminant validity was assessed using multitrait-multimethod correlation matrix. Sensitivity was measured with ANOVA and relative efficiency. Responsiveness was evaluated by pre-post paired-samples t-test and standardized response mean based on the patients' health status changes following 6-month period. Cronbach's α of the SF-36v2 physical and mental summary components were 0.80 and 0.86 (eight scales range 0.73-0.92) and the QOL-DAv2.0 was 0.96 (four scales range: 0.80-0.93). ICC of the SF-36v2 two components were 0.86 and 0.85 (eight scales range: 0.72-0.87) and the QOL-DAv2.0 was 0.94 (four scales range: 0.88-0.92). Convergent validity was lower between the two instruments (γ <0.70) while discriminant validity was acceptable within each instrument. Sensitivity was satisfied in self-evaluated health status (both instruments) and average daily methadone dose (SF-36v2 physical functioning and vitality scales; QOL-DAv2.0 except psychology scale). Responsiveness was acceptable in the improved health status change (SF-36v2 except vitality scale; QOL-DAv2.0 except psychology and symptoms scales) and deteriorated health status change (SF-36v2 except vitality, social functioning and mental health scales; QOL-DAv2.0 except society scale). The SF-36v2 and the QOL-DAv2.0 are valid tools and can be used independently or complementary according to different emphases of health-related quality of life evaluation in patients with MMT.
Zhou, Kaina; Zhuang, Guihua; Zhang, Hongmei; Liang, Peifeng; Yin, Juan; Kou, Lingling; Hao, Mengmeng; You, Lijuan
2013-01-01
Objective To test psychometrics of the Short Form 36 Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2) and the Quality of Life Scale for Drug Addicts (QOL-DAv2.0) in Chinese mainland patients with methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). Methods A total of 1,212 patients were recruited from two MMT clinics in Xi’an, China. Reliability was estimated with Cronbach’s α and intra-class correlation (ICC). Convergent and discriminant validity was assessed using multitrait-multimethod correlation matrix. Sensitivity was measured with ANOVA and relative efficiency. Responsiveness was evaluated by pre-post paired-samples t-test and standardized response mean based on the patients’ health status changes following 6-month period. Results Cronbach’s α of the SF-36v2 physical and mental summary components were 0.80 and 0.86 (eight scales range 0.73–0.92) and the QOL-DAv2.0 was 0.96 (four scales range: 0.80–0.93). ICC of the SF-36v2 two components were 0.86 and 0.85 (eight scales range: 0.72–0.87) and the QOL-DAv2.0 was 0.94 (four scales range: 0.88–0.92). Convergent validity was lower between the two instruments (γ <0.70) while discriminant validity was acceptable within each instrument. Sensitivity was satisfied in self-evaluated health status (both instruments) and average daily methadone dose (SF-36v2 physical functioning and vitality scales; QOL-DAv2.0 except psychology scale). Responsiveness was acceptable in the improved health status change (SF-36v2 except vitality scale; QOL-DAv2.0 except psychology and symptoms scales) and deteriorated health status change (SF-36v2 except vitality, social functioning and mental health scales; QOL-DAv2.0 except society scale). Conclusions The SF-36v2 and the QOL-DAv2.0 are valid tools and can be used independently or complementary according to different emphases of health-related quality of life evaluation in patients with MMT. PMID:24278188
Barcones-Molero, M F; Sánchez-Villegas, A; Martínez-González, M A; Bes-Rastrollo, M; Martínez-Urbistondo, M; Santabárbara, J; Martínez, J A
2018-06-26
The health-related quality of life is an important element for the comprehensive assessment of overweight and obesity. To assess the impact of obesity and weight gain on the health-related quality of life of the dynamic cohort of the Follow-up Program of the University of Navarra. The analysis included 10,033 participants of the prospective dynamic cohort of the Follow-up Project of the University of Navarra, with a response rate of approximately 90%. The quality of life was measured with the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) (0, worst quality of life; 100, best quality of life). The statistical analysis was performed with generalized lineal models (mean of each SF-36 domain and 95% CI). A difference of 3 points was considered clinically relevant. The SF-36 analysis showed that physical function, general health and the physical component summary were inferior in individuals with excess weight and obesity at the start of the study, compared with individuals with normal weight. The study population with unchanged excess weight or obesity after 2 years of follow-up presented lower scores on the SF-36 domains corresponding to physical function, body pain, physical component summary and general health than individuals who maintained the normal weight category according to BMI (kg/m 2 ). Obesity appears to be associated with a negative impact on health-related quality of life, affecting the physical area more significantly than the psychosocial. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna (SEMI). All rights reserved.
Harkonmäki, K; Rahkonen, O; Martikainen, P; Silventoinen, K; Lahelma, E
2006-08-01
To examine the associations of mental health functioning (SF-36) and work and family related psychosocial factors with intentions to retire early. Cross sectional survey data (n = 5037) from the Helsinki Health Study occupational cohort in 2001 and 2002 were used. Intentions to retire early were inquired with a question: "Have you considered retiring before normal retirement age?" Mental health functioning was measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) mental component summary (MCS). Work and family related psychosocial factors included job demands and job control, procedural and relational justice, conflicts between work and family, and social network size. Multinomial regression models were used to analyse the data. Poor mental health functioning, unfavourable psychosocial working conditions, and conflicts between work and family were individually related to intentions to retire early. After adjustments for all work and family related factors the odds ratio for low mental health functioning was halved (from OR = 6.05 to 3.67), but nevertheless the association between poor mental health functioning and strong intentions to retire early remained strong. These findings highlight not only the importance of low mental health and unfavourable working conditions but also the simultaneous impact of conflicts between work and family to employees' intentions to retire early.
Angst, F; Aeschlimann, A; Steiner, W; Stucki, G
2001-01-01
OBJECTIVE—To compare the responsiveness of the condition-specific Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis (OA) index (WOMAC) and the generic Short Form-36 (SF-36) in patients with OA of the legs undergoing a comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation intervention. METHODS—A prospective follow up study of consecutively referred inpatients of a rehabilitation clinic was made. The patients included fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology criteria for knee or hip OA and underwent both passive and, particularly, active physical therapy for three to four weeks. Responsiveness assessment was performed using the standardised response mean (SRM), effect size, and Guyatt's responsiveness statistic between admission and discharge (end of rehabilitation) and then again between admission and three months later. For pain and function the SRMs were stratified by sex and OA joint. Effects were tested by the t test and SRMs of different scales were compared by the jack knife test. RESULTS—At the three month follow up, complete data were obtained for 223 patients. In general, the three responsiveness statistics showed a similar order of responsiveness. For both instruments, the pain scales were more responsive than the function scales. The responsiveness of the pain scale of both instruments was comparable (SRM=0.723 for WOMAC and SRM=0.528 for SF-36 at the end of rehabilitation; SRM=0.377 for WOMAC and SRM=0.468 for SF-36 at the three month follow up). In the measurement of function, the WOMAC was significantly more responsive than the SF-36 (SRMs, end of rehabilitation: 0.628 v 0.249; three month follow up: 0.235 v −0.001). Responsiveness tended to be higher in women and in knee OA than in men and hip OA. CONCLUSIONS—Both instruments, the WOMAC and the SF-36, capture improvement in pain in patients undergoing comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation intervention. Functional improvement can be detected better by the WOMAC than by the SF-36. All
Pintea, B; Kandenwein, J A; Lorenzen, H; Boström, J P; Daher, F; Velazquez, V; Kristof, R A
2018-03-01
To describe the patient's self assessed health related quality of life (saHRQoL) based upon the medical outcome study 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) as well as the factors of influence upon the saHRQoL following surgery for petroclival (PCM) and lateral posterior surface of the pyramid (LPPM) meningiomas. In a series of 78 patients operated consecutively for PCM (n = 46) or LPPM (n = 32) the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative data were collected retrospectively. The saHRQoL was obtained by mailing the SF-36 questionnaire to the patients. The SF-36 data of the whole patients group was compared with a healthy population. The SF-36 data of the PCM- and LPPM were compared to each other. The influence of pre-, intra- and postoperative findings upon the SF-36 was assessed by uni- and multifactorial analysis. 58 (69%) out of the 78 patients answered the SF-36 questionnaire at a median postoperative follow-up of 59 months. The patients, who answered the SF-36 questionnaire, had a significant lower perioperative complication rate than those who did not (46% vs. 75%, p = 0.019). The saHRQoL of the LPPM and PCM was reduced on several sub-scales, when compared to the German reference population. The outcome of PCM is, assessed by saHRQoL as well as by conventional neurosurgical grading scales, inferior to that of LPPM. The saHRQoL of LPPM correlated in the uni- and multivariate analysis with the early postoperative KPI on the sub-scales SF1 (physical functioning) and SF5 (vitality). Accordingly, the sub-scale SF2 (role-physical) of PCM correlated with the change of the KPI from preoperative to the last follow up. The saHRQoL of the evaluable patients was lower than that of the normal population. The saHRQoL score of PCM-patients was lower than that of LPPM-patients. For the future the saHRQol should be assessed routinely; It reflects the patients' perspective upon postoperative outcome and enables the comparison with other treatment modalities
Crins, Martine H P; van der Wees, Philip J; Klausch, Thomas; van Dulmen, Simone A; Roorda, Leo D; Terwee, Caroline B
2018-01-01
The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is a universally applicable set of instruments, including item banks, short forms and computer adaptive tests (CATs), measuring patient-reported health across different patient populations. PROMIS CATs are highly efficient and the use in practice is considered feasible with little administration time, offering standardized and routine patient monitoring. Before an item bank can be used as CAT, the psychometric properties of the item bank have to be examined. Therefore, the objective was to assess the psychometric properties of the Dutch-Flemish PROMIS Physical Function item bank (DF-PROMIS-PF) in Dutch patients receiving physical therapy. Cross-sectional study. 805 patients >18 years, who received any kind of physical therapy in primary care in the past year, completed the full DF-PROMIS-PF (121 items). Unidimensionality was examined by Confirmatory Factor Analysis and local dependence and monotonicity were evaluated. A Graded Response Model was fitted. Construct validity was examined with correlations between DF-PROMIS-PF T-scores and scores on two legacy instruments (SF-36 Health Survey Physical Functioning scale [SF36-PF10] and the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability-Index [HAQ-DI]). Reliability (standard errors of theta) was assessed. The results for unidimensionality were mixed (scaled CFI = 0.924, TLI = 0.923, RMSEA = 0.045, 1th factor explained 61.5% of variance). Some local dependence was found (8.2% of item pairs). The item bank showed a broad coverage of the physical function construct (threshold-parameters range: -4.28-2.33) and good construct validity (correlation with SF36-PF10 = 0.84 and HAQ-DI = -0.85). Furthermore, the DF-PROMIS-PF showed greater reliability over a broader score-range than the SF36-PF10 and HAQ-DI. The psychometric properties of the DF-PROMIS-PF item bank are sufficient. The DF-PROMIS-PF can now be used as short forms or CAT to measure the level of physical
Mah, Jean K; Tough, Suzanne; Fung, Thomas; Douglas-England, Kathleen; Verhoef, Marja
2006-10-01
Patient satisfaction surveys are often used to measure quality of care. However, patient satisfaction may not be a reliable indicator of service quality because satisfaction can be influenced by clients' characteristics such as their health status. Parents of children attending a pediatric neurology clinic completed the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and global ratings of their physical and mental health. They also completed the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ), the Measure of Processes of Care (MPOC), and the Family-Centered Care Survey (FCCS). 104 parents completed the survey. The correlation between the global rating of physical or mental health and their corresponding SF-36 scores was high. The majority (88%) of parents were satisfied, with a median CSQ score of 28 (IQR, 24 to 31) and a FCCS score of 4.7 (IQR, 4.2 to 4.9). Logistic regression identified parents' mental health as a significant predictor of client satisfaction (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.14). Given the positive association between parents' mental health and satisfaction with care, it is important to consider mental status as a covariate in interpreting satisfaction surveys. Parents' global rating of mental health appears to be a reasonable indicator of their SF-36 mental scores.
Kwan, Yu Heng; Fong, Warren Weng Seng; Lui, Nai Lee; Yong, Si Ting; Cheung, Yin Bun; Malhotra, Rahul; Østbye, Truls; Thumboo, Julian
2016-12-01
The Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) is a popular health-related quality of life (HrQoL) tool. However, few studies have assessed its psychometric properties in patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA). We therefore aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the SF-36 in patients with SpA in Singapore. Cross-sectional data from a registry of 196 SpA patients recruited from a dedicated tertiary referral clinic in Singapore from 2011 to 2014 was used. Analyses were guided by the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments framework. Internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was assessed through 33 a priori hypotheses by correlations of the eight subscales and two summary scores of SF-36 with other health outcomes. Known-group construct validity was assessed by comparison of the means of the subscales and summary scores of the SF-36 of SpA patients and the general population of Singapore using student's t tests. Among 196 patients (155 males (79.0 %), median (range) age: 36 (17-70), 166 Chinese (84.6 %)), SF-36 scales showed high internal consistency ranging from 0.88 to 0.90. Convergent construct validity was supported as shown by fulfillment of all hypotheses. Divergent construct validity was supported, as SF-36 MCS was not associated with PGA, pain and HAQ. Known-group construct validity showed SpA patients had lower scores of 3.8-12.5 when compared to the general population at p < 0.001. This study supports the SF-36 as a valid and reliable measure of HrQoL for use in patients with SpA at a single time point.
Xenouli, Georgia; Xenoulis, Kostis; Sarafis, Pavlos; Niakas, Dimitris; Alexopoulos, Evangelos C
2016-07-01
There is controversy and ongoing interest on the measurement of functionality in the personal and social level. (1) to validate the Greek version of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHO DAS II) and (2) to determine its added value to the physical and psychological health subscales of the Short Form 36 (SF-36). In a cross-sectional design, data were collected between December 2014 and March 2015 by using three questionnaires (WHO DAS II, SF-36, PSS-14) in a sample of people with disabilities (n = 101) and without disabilities (n = 109) in Athens, Greece. WHO DAS II internal consistency, construct and criterion-related validity were assessed by Cronbach alpha, exploratory factor analysis and correlations; its added value by multivariable linear regression. Cronbach Alpha's were satisfactory for the WHO DAS II, PSS-14 and SF-36 (0.85, 0.88 and 0.96 respectively). Exploratory factor analysis confirmed the existence of one or two factors in people with or without disabilities, respectively. WHO DAS II score showed significant negative correlation with the physical and mental health scale of SF-36 score, especially strong for physical health while was positively related to PSS-14 score. In multivariate analysis mental health appraisal was related to perceived stress in both groups. This study support the validity of the Greek version of WHO DAS II and warranted its use in assessment and follow up of people with disabilities, contributing to the development of suitable policies to cover their needs and providing comparable data with other surveys using the same instrument. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
de Oliveira Ferreira, Néville; Arthuso, Michael; da Silva, Raimunda; Pedro, Adriana Orcesi; Pinto Neto, Aarão Mendes; Costa-Paiva, Lucia
2009-01-20
To evaluate quality of life (QoL) in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis, correlating the QUALEFFO 41 with the short-form health survey 36 (SF-36) and evaluated some factors that can influenced the QoL of women with osteoporosis. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 220 postmenopausal women (ages ranging from 55 to 80 years). Of the total number, 110 women had osteoporosis and 110 women did not have osteoporosis and these women were age-matched (+/-3 years). Two questionnaires were administered to all subjects for evaluation of QoL: the quality of life questionnaire of the European foundation for Osteoporosis 41 (QUALEFFO 41) and the short-form health survey 36 (SF-36). For data analysis, a significance level of 5% was set (p<0.05). Clinical characteristics between the groups were similar, with statistically significant differences only in body mass index (BMI), race, school education, age at menopause and use of hormone therapy (HT) (p<0.001). Women with osteoporosis had a worse QoL both in the QUALEFFO 41 and in the SF-36, in all domains studied. Data was adjusted for BMI, race, school education and use of HT (p<0.001). There was a significant correlation between all domains in the QUALEFFO 41 questionnaire and their corresponding domains in the SF-36 (p<0.001). The only factors related to worse QoL were BMI>25 and sedentary lifestyle. In contrast, paid work was associated with a better QoL (CI=95%). Women with osteoporosis had an impaired QoL, especially relating to the physical, psychological and social aspects. The factors associated with QoL were obesity, sedentary lifestyle and paid work.
Adorno, Marta Lúcia Guimarães Resende; Brasil-Neto, Joaquim Pereira
2013-01-01
The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of life (QL) with the use of the SF-36 Questionnaire in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP). Thirty patients with CNLBP were randomly assigned to one of three groups (Iso group (Isostretching), GPR group (Global Postural Reeducation), and the Iso+GPR group. Patients underwent physical therapy assessment with the use of the Vertebral Spine Assessment, the Visual Analog Scale of Pain (VASP), and the SF-36 life quality questionnaire before the first session (first assessment), after three months of treatment (second assessment) and reassessed two months after the final session in the follow-up (third assessment). The results indicated that both physical therapy techniques reduced pain (p<0.001); when the techniques (Iso+GPR) were combined, the reduction in pain was significantly greater; and, in the follow-up assessment, the GPR method was more efficient. As for the QL, physical therapy techniques were effective after the interventions (p<0.001), and the Iso method was more effective when patients were reassessed in the follow-up. We conclude that the physical therapy techniques used in this study were efficient to treat CNLBP in the patients since they reduced pain and increased QL according to the results of the SF-36 questionnaire. Level of Evidence II, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. PMID:24453669
Varma, G R; Kusuma, Y S; Babu, B V
2010-08-01
The present investigation aimed to assess the health-related QoL (HRQoL) of elderly people living in two settings: (i) rural community and (ii) homes for the elderly in a district of South India. The data are drawn from elderly (>60 years of age) sampled from both settings. The short form 36-item health survey (SF-36) was administered to all respondents. The average scores for several domains, including total physical health, total mental health and overall health (total SF-36 score) were around 50, which can be interpreted as a moderate level of health-related QoL. Residents living in a home for the elderly scored better in all domains except for role-physical and role-emotional. Though univariate analysis revealed some associations between characteristics of elderly SF-36 scores, the multiple regression analysis indicated that working status yields a significant but negative coefficient for total SF-36 score among community dwelling elderly. The elderly report that their lives are better when they are staying in homes for the elderly. Hence, despite the socio-economic conditions, provision of a better and conducive environment by setting up more charity-based homes for the elderly may be one of the options for relative betterment of the QoL of the elderly, particularly those who are socially and economically deprived. Finally, the study warrants the need of normative values of SF-36 for various population groups in India.
Jiao, Hua-Chen; Ju, Jian-Qing; Li, Yun-Lun; Ma, Xue-Sheng; Jiang, Hai-Qiang; Zhao, Jing; Shen, Zhen-Zhen; Yang, Wen-Qing
2015-06-01
This study aims to evaluate published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) improving health-related quality of life (HRQL) in hypertensive patients that employ the Short-Form 36-Item Health questionnaire (SF-36) as an outcome measure. Five electronic databases were searched up to October 2013 to identify RCTs of CHM for hypertension. The primary outcome was SF-36. Trial selection, data extraction, methodological quality assessment, and data analyses were conducted according to the Cochrane handbook. Eleven RCTs with total of 1043 participants were identified. The majority of the included trials were assessed to be of poor methodological quality and high clinical heterogeneity. Meta-analysis shows a significant improvement both in physical component summary (PCS) measure and mental component summary (MCS) measure of SF-36, with physical functioning (WMD=8.54[5.34, 11.74], p<0.001), role physical (WMD=13.32[7.03, 19.61], p<0.001), bodily pain (WMD=10.53[6.46, 14.60], p<0.001), general health (WMD=-5.56[2.09, 9.02], p<0.001), vitality (WMD=6.84[4.33, 9.53], p<0.001), social functioning (WMD=7.50[2.63, 12.36], p<0.001), role emotional (WMD=12.06[4.45, 19.68], p<0.001) and mental health (WMD=-5.68[2.90, 8.47], p<0.001). CHM can also decrease systolic blood pressure (WMD=-4.45 [-6.71, -2.19], p<0.001) and relieve symptoms related to hypertension. CHM appears to have beneficial effects on improvement of HRQL in hypertensive patients. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to the poor methodological quality and high clinical heterogeneity of the included trials. Further clinical trials should be carried out to provide more reliable evidence. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Dong, Aishu; Chen, Sisi; Zhu, Lianlian; Shi, Lingmin; Cai, Yueli; Zeng, Jingni; Guo, Wenjian
2017-08-01
Chronic heart failure (CHF), a major public health problem worldwide, seriously limits health-related quality of life (HRQOL). How to evaluate HRQOL in older patients with CHF remains a problem. To evaluate the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form version 2 (SF-36v2) in CHF patients. From September 2012 to June 2014, we assessed QOL using the SF-36v2 in 171 aging participants with CHF in four cardiology departments. Convergent and discriminant validity, factorial validity, sensitivity among different NYHA classes and between different age groups, and reliability were determined using standard measurement methods. A total of 150 participants completed a structured questionnaire including general information and the Chinese SF-36v2; 132 questionnaires were considered valid, while 21 patients refused to take part. 25 of the 50 participants invited to complete the 2-week test-retest questionnaires returned completed questionnaires. The internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α) of the total SF-36v2 was 0.92 (range 0.74-0.93). All hypothesized item-subscale correlations showed satisfactory convergent and discriminant validity. Sensitivity was measured in different NYHA classes and age groups. Comparison of different NYHA classes showed statistical significance, but there was no significant difference between age groups. We confirmed the SF-36v2 as a valid instrument for evaluating HRQOL Chinese CHF patients. Both reliability and validity were strongly satisfactory, but there was divergence in understanding subscales such as "social functioning" because of differing cultural background. The reliability, validity, and sensitivity of SF-36v2 in aging patients with CHF were acceptable.
Mmopelwa, Tiro; Ayhan, Selim; Yuksel, Selcen; Nabiyev, Vugar; Niyazi, Asli; Pellise, Ferran; Alanay, Ahmet; Sanchez Perez Grueso, Francisco Javier; Kleinstuck, Frank; Obeid, Ibrahim; Acaroglu, Emre
2018-03-01
To identify the factors that affect SF-36 mental component summary (MCS) in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD) at the time of presentation, and to analyse the effect of SF-36 MCS on clinical outcomes in surgically treated patients. Prospectively collected data from a multicentric ASD database was analysed for baseline parameters. Then, the same database for surgically treated patients with a minimum of 1-year follow-up was analysed to see the effect of baseline SF-36 MCS on treatment results. A clinically useful SF-36 MCS was determined by ROC Curve analysis. A total of 229 patients with the baseline parameters were analysed. A strong correlation between SF-36 MCS and SRS-22, ODI, gender, and diagnosis were found (p < 0.05). For the second part of the study, a total of 186 surgically treated patients were analysed. Only for SF-36 PCS, the un-improved cohort based on minimum clinically important differences had significantly lower mean baseline SF-36 MCS (p < 0.001). SF-36 MCS was found to have an odds ratio of 0.914 in improving SF-36 PCS score (unit by unit) (p < 0.001). A cut-off point of 43.97 for SF-36 MCS was found to be predictive of SF-36 PCS (AUC = 0.631; p < 0.001). The factors effective on the baseline SF-36 MCS in an ASD population are other HRQOL parameters such as SRS-22 and ODI as well as the baseline thoracic kyphosis and gender. This study has also demonstrated that baseline SF-36 MCS does not necessarily have any effect on the treatment results by surgery as assessed by SRS-22 or ODI. Level III, prognostic study. Copyright © 2018 Turkish Association of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Hilton, Maren E; Gioe, Terence; Noorbaloochi, Siamak; Singh, Jasvinder A
2016-10-07
Previous studies suggested that pre-operative comorbidity was a risk factor for worse outcomes after TKA. To our knowledge, studies have not examined whether postoperative changes in comorbidity impact pain and function outcomes longitudinally. Our objective was to examine if increasing comorbidity postoperatively is associated with worsening physical function and pain after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We performed a retrospective chart review of veterans who had completed Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Short Form-36 (SF36) surveys at regular intervals after primary TKA. Comorbidity was assessed using a variety of scales: validated Charlson comorbidity index score, and a novel Arthroplasty Comorbidity Severity Index score (Including medical index, local musculoskeletal index [including lower extremity and spine] and TKA-related index subscales; higher scores are worse ), at multiple time-points post-TKA. We used mixed model linear regression to examine the association of worsening comorbidity post-TKA with change in WOMAC and SF-36 scores in the subsequent follow-up periods, controlling for age, length of follow-up, and repeated observations. The study cohort consisted of 124 patients with a mean age of 71.7 years (range 58.6-89.2, standard deviation (SD) 6.9) followed for a mean of 4.9 years post-operatively (range 1.3-11.4; SD 2.8). We found that post-operative worsening of the Charlson Index score was significantly associated with worsening SF-36 Physical Function (PF) (beta coefficient (ß) = -0.07; p < 0.0001), SF-36 Bodily Pain (BP) (ß = -0.06; p = 0.002), and WOMAC PF subscale (ß = 0.08; p < 0.001; higher scores are worse) scores, in the subsequent periods. Worsening novel medical index subscale scores were significantly associated with worsening SF-36 PF scores (ß = -0.03; p = 0.002), SF-36 BP (ß = -0.04; p < 0.001) and showed a non-significant trend
SF-36 total score as a single measure of health-related quality of life: Scoping review
Lins, Liliane; Carvalho, Fernando Martins
2016-01-01
According to the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire developers, a global measure of health-related quality of life such as the “SF-36 Total/Global/Overall Score” cannot be generated from the questionnaire. However, studies keep on reporting such measure. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency and to describe some characteristics of articles reporting the SF-36 Total/Global/Overall Score in the scientific literature. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method was adapted to a scoping review. We performed searches in PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, BVS, and Cochrane Library databases for articles using such scores. We found 172 articles published between 1997 and 2015; 110 (64.0%) of them were published from 2010 onwards; 30.0% appeared in journals with Impact Factor 3.00 or greater. Overall, 129 (75.0%) out of the 172 studies did not specify the method for calculating the “SF-36 Total Score”; 13 studies did not specify their methods but referred to the SF-36 developers’ studies or others; and 30 articles used different strategies for calculating such score, the most frequent being arithmetic averaging of the eight SF-36 domains scores. We concluded that the “SF-36 Total/Global/Overall Score” has been increasingly reported in the scientific literature. Researchers should be aware of this procedure and of its possible impacts upon human health. PMID:27757230
López-Pérez, Patricia; Miranda-Novales, Guadalupe; Segura-Méndez, Nora Hilda; Del Rivero-Hernández, Leonel; Cambray-Gutiérrez, Cesar; Chávez-García, Aurora
2014-01-01
Quality of life is a multidimensional concept that includes physical, emotional and social components associated with the disease. The use of tools to assess the Quality of Life Health Related (HRQOL) has increased in recent decades. Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most commonly diagnosed primary immunodeficiency. To evaluate the quality of life in patients with CVID using the questionnaire SF -36. A descriptive cross-sectional survey included 23 patients diagnosed with CVID, belonging to the Immunodeficiency Clinic Service of Allergology and Clinical Immunology in CMN Siglo XXI, IMSS. The questionnaire SF- 36 validated in Spanish was applied. descriptive statistics with simple frequencies and percentages, inferential statistics: Fisher exact test and ANOVA to compare means. The study involved 23 patients, 14 women (60%) and 9 men (40%), mean age 38.6 ± 14.7 years. The highest score was obtained in 83% emotional role. Dimensions with further deterioration in both genders were: 54% general health, vitality 59% and physical performance 72%. No differences were found regarding gender. The only issue in which statistically significant differences were found in patients with more than 3 comorbidities was change in health status in the past year (p=0.007). Patients with severe comorbidities, such as haematologicaloncological (leukemias, lymphomas, neoplasms), and pulmonary (severe bronchiectasis) showed further deterioration in the aspects of physical performance 73% and 64% emotional role. 65% of patients reported an improvement in health status in 74% in the last year. Adult patients with CVID show deterioration in different dimensions, particularly in the areas of general health, vitality and physical performance. Patients with severe comorbidities such as leukemia, lymphomas, malignancies and severe bronchiectasis show further deterioration in some aspects of quality of life, especially in physical performance and emotional role. A higher number of
Yang, Xiao; Fan, Dazhi; Xia, Qing; Wang, Mengmeng; Zhang, Xu; Li, Xiaona; Cai, Guoqi; Wang, Li; Xin, Lihong; Xu, Shengqian; Pan, Faming
2016-11-01
The main purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the impact of ankylosing spondylitis on the health-related quality of life assessed by the Medical Outcomes Short-Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36). A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed and Web of Science until January 22, 2016 to obtain eligible studies. Random effect model was performed to summarize the scores of each domain. The radar chart was used to compare the scores of AS patients with other health conditions. Spearman's correlation analysis and meta-regression were used to explore the related factors. STATA (version 11.0) and SPSS (version 13.0) were adopted in this meta-analysis. Thirty-eight studies were included in this study, which were all reliable to summarize the scores of the SF-36. Pooled mean scores of the physical health domains ranged from 45.93 to 58.17, with the RP and PF domains being the lowest and the highest, respectively. Pooled mean scores of the mental health domains ranged from 47.49 to 62.52, with the VT and SF domains being the lowest and the highest, respectively. Besides, the physical component summary was lower than the mental component summary. BASDAI and BASFI were negatively associated with some domains of the SF-36 significantly. Patients with AS had a substantial impaired HRQoL in comparison with the general population. AS could adversely affect the HRQoL of patients. Measuring HRQoL should be considered as an essential part of the overall assessment of health status of AS patients, which would provide valuable clues for improving the management of disease and making decisions regarding treatment.
Coffey, Sean; Bano, Gul; Mason, Helen D
2006-02-01
We examined whether women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL) than women in the general population and than patients with other medical conditions. Women with PCOS were recruited from an outpatient clinic and a control group was recruited from a family planning clinic. Both groups completed the Short Form-36 (SF-36) and the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Questionnaire (PCOSQ). SF-36 data from the Oxford Health and Lifestyle Survey were used to compare PCOS with other conditions. Twenty-two women with PCOS and 96 control women took part. Women with PCOS scored lower in both summary scores of the SF-36 and in all domains of the PCOSQ. After adjusting for body mass index, the differences between the groups in the SF-36 disappeared, while those in the PCOSQ remained. When compared with asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, back pain, arthritis and coronary heart disease, our PCOS group had the same or better physical HRQoL but poorer psychological HRQoL. The PCOSQ showed good internal reliability, good concurrent validity and good discriminant validity. PCOS has a negative impact on HRQoL even when compared with other serious health conditions. The PCOSQ is reliable and valid for clinical use.
Predicting preference-based SF-6D index scores from the SF-8 health survey.
Wang, P; Fu, A Z; Wee, H L; Lee, J; Tai, E S; Thumboo, J; Luo, N
2013-09-01
To develop and test functions for predicting the preference-based SF-6D index scores from the SF-8 health survey. This study was a secondary analysis of data collected in a population health survey in which respondents (n = 7,529) completed both the SF-36 and the SF-8 questionnaires. We examined seven ordinary least-square estimators for their performance in predicting SF-6D scores from the SF-8 at both the individual and the group levels. In general, all functions performed similarly well in predicting SF-6D scores, and the predictions at the group level were better than predictions at the individual level. At the individual level, 42.5-51.5% of prediction errors were smaller than the minimally important difference (MID) of the SF-6D scores, depending on the function specifications, while almost all prediction errors of the tested functions were smaller than the MID of SF-6D at the group level. At both individual and group levels, the tested functions predicted lower than actual scores at the higher end of the SF-6D scale. Our study developed functions to generate preference-based SF-6D index scores from the SF-8 health survey, the first of its kind. Further research is needed to evaluate the performance and validity of the prediction functions.
The SF36 health survey questionnaire: an outcome measure suitable for routine use within the NHS?
Garratt, A M; Ruta, D A; Abdalla, M I; Buckingham, J K; Russell, I T
1993-01-01
OBJECTIVE--To assess the validity, reliability, and acceptability of the short form 36 (SF 36) health survey questionnaire (a shortened version of a battery of 149 health status questions) as a measure of patient outcome in a broad sample of patients suffering from four common clinical conditions. DESIGN--Postal questionnaire, followed up by two reminders at two week intervals. SETTING--Clinics and four training practices in north east Scotland. SUBJECTS--Over 1700 patients aged 16-86 with one of four conditions--low back pain, menorrhagia, suspected peptic ulcer, or varicose veins--and a comparison sample of 900 members of the general population. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES--The eight scales within the SF36 health profile. RESULTS--The response rate exceeded 75% in the patient population (1310 respondents). The SF36 satisfied rigorous psychometric criteria for validity and internal consistency. Clinical validity was shown by the distinctive profiles generated for each condition, each of which differed from that in the general population in a predictable manner. Furthermore, SF36 scores were lower in referred patients than in patients not referred and were closely related to general practitioners' perceptions of severity. CONCLUSIONS--These results provide support for the SF36 as a potential measure of patient outcome within the NHS. The SF36 seems acceptable to patients, internally consistent, and a valid measure of the health status of a wide range of patients. Before it can be used in the new health service, however, its sensitivity to changes in health status over time must also be tested. PMID:8518640
Grassi, Mario; Nucera, Andrea
2010-01-01
The objective of this study was twofold: 1) to confirm the hypothetical eight scales and two-component summaries of the questionnaire Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), and 2) to evaluate the performance of two alternative measures to the original physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS). We performed principal component analysis (PCA) based on 35 items, after optimal scaling via multiple correspondence analysis (MCA), and subsequently on eight scales, after standard summative scoring. Item-based summary measures were planned. Data from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II follow-up of 8854 subjects from 25 centers were analyzed to cross-validate the original and the novel PCS and MCS. Overall, the scale- and item-based comparison indicated that the SF-36 scales and summaries meet the supposed dimensionality. However, vitality, social functioning, and general health items did not fit data optimally. The novel measures, derived a posteriori by unit-rule from an oblique (correlated) MCA/PCA solution, are simple item sums or weighted scale sums where the weights are the raw scale ranges. These item-based scores yielded consistent scale-summary results for outliers profiles, with an expected known-group differences validity. We were able to confirm the hypothesized dimensionality of eight scales and two summaries of the SF-36. The alternative scoring reaches at least the same required standards of the original scoring. In addition, it can reduce the item-scale inconsistencies without loss of predictive validity.
Gill, Stephen D; de Morton, Natalie A; Mc Burney, Helen
2012-10-01
To assess and compare the validity of six physical function measures in people awaiting hip or knee joint replacement. Eighty-two people awaiting hip or knee replacement were assessed using six physical function measures including the WOMAC Function scale, SF-36 Physical Function scale, SF-36 Physical Component Summary scale, Patient Specific Functional Scale, 30-second chair stand test, and 50-foot timed walk. Validity was assessed using a head-to-head comparison design. Convergent validity was demonstrated with significant correlations between most measures (Spearman's rho 0.22 to 0.71). The Patient Specific Functional Scale had the lowest correlations with other measures of physical function. Discriminant validity was demonstrated with low correlations between mental health and physical function scores (Spearman's rho -0.12 to 0.33). Only the WOMAC Function scale, 30-second chair stand test, and 50-foot timed walk demonstrated known groups validity when scores for participants who walked with a gait aid were compared with those who did not. Standardized response means and Guyatt's responsiveness indexes indicated that the SF-36 was the least responsive measure. For those awaiting joint replacement surgery of the hip or knee, the current investigation found that the WOMAC Function scale, 30-second chair stand test, and 50-foot timed walk demonstrated the most evidence of validity. The Patient Specific Functional Scale might complement other measures by capturing a different aspect of physical function.
von Steinbuechel, Nicole; Covic, Amra; Polinder, Suzanne; Kohlmann, Thomas; Cepulyte, Ugne; Poinstingl, Herbert; Backhaus, Joy; Bakx, Wilbert; Bullinger, Monika; Christensen, Anne-Lise; Formisano, Rita; Gibbons, Henning; Höfer, Stefan; Koskinen, Sanna; Maas, Andrew; Neugebauer, Edmund; Powell, Jane; Sarajuuri, Jaana; Sasse, Nadine; Schmidt, Silke; Mühlan, Holger; von Wild, Klaus; Zitnay, George; Truelle, Jean-Luc
2016-01-01
Psychosocial, emotional, and physical problems can emerge after traumatic brain injury (TBI), potentially impacting health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Until now, however, neither the discriminatory power of disease-specific (QOLIBRI) and generic (SF-36) HRQoL nor their correlates have been compared in detail. These aspects as well as some psychometric item characteristics were studied in a sample of 795 TBI survivors. The Shannon H ' index absolute informativity, as an indicator of an instrument's power to differentiate between individuals within a specific group or health state, was investigated. Psychometric performance of the two instruments was predominantly good, generally higher, and more homogenous for the QOLIBRI than for the SF-36 subscales. Notably, the SF-36 “Role Physical,” “Role Emotional,” and “Social Functioning” subscales showed less satisfactory discriminatory power than all other dimensions or the sum scores of both instruments. The absolute informativity of disease-specific as well as generic HRQoL instruments concerning the different groups defined by different correlates differed significantly. When the focus is on how a certain subscale or sum score differentiates between individuals in one specific dimension/health state, the QOLIBRI can be recommended as the preferable instrument. PMID:27022207
García-Carrasco, M; Mendoza-Pinto, C; Cardiel, M H; Méndez-Martínez, S; García-Villaseñor, A; Jiménez-Hernández, C; Alonso-García, N E; Briones-Rojas, R; Ramos-Álvarez, G; López-Colombo, A
2012-10-01
The LupusQoL© questionnaire is a disease-specific health related quality of life (HRQOL) instrument for adults with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The Short Form-36 (SF-36) is a generic instrument that captures the physical, psychological, and social impact. We conducted a descriptive study of women aged ≥ 18 years attending our Lupus Clinic. HRQOL was assessed by applying the LupusQoL© and SF-36. Lupus activity was measured using the Mexican Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (Mex-SLEDAI) and chronic damage using the Systemic Lupus Collaborative Clinics Damage Index (SDI). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the chi-square test and Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient. A total of 127 patients were included with a mean age of 40.5 ± 12.6 years. The mean disease duration was 8.2 ± 5.6 years, the mean disease activity score was 2.4 ± 3.0, and the mean SDI score 0.77 ± 1.06. The mean SF-36 score was 58.1 ± 21.1 and the mean LupusQoL© score was 69 ± 22.7. The correlation between global scores of the SF-36 and LupusQoL© was rho = 0.73 (p < 0.001). The correlation between lupus disease activity and the SF-36 and the LupusQoL© was -0.26 (p = 0.003) and -0.25 (p = 0.004), respectively. The correlation between the SDI and the SF-36 and the LupusQoL© was -0.28 (p = 0.001) and -0.38 (p < 0.0001), respectively. In conclusions: both LupusQoL© and SF-36 were useful instruments in assessing HRQOL in Mexican lupus female patients. The usefulness of the LupusQoL© should be evaluated in lupus patients with moderate to severe disease activity.
Laguardia, Josué; Campos, Monica R; Travassos, Claudia M; Najar, Alberto L; Anjos, Luiz A; Vasconcellos, Miguel M
2011-08-03
In Brazil, despite the growing use of SF-36 in different research environments, most of the psychometric evaluation of the translated questionnaire was from studies with samples of patients. The purpose of this paper is to examine if the Brazilian version of SF-36 satisfies scaling assumptions, reliability and validity required for valid interpretation of the SF-36 summated ratings scales in the general population. 12,423 individuals and their spouses living in 8,048 households were selected from a stratified sample of all permanent households along the country to be interviewed using the Brazilian SF-36 (version 2). Psychometric tests were performed to evaluate the scaling assumptions based on IQOLA methodology. Data quality was satisfactory with questionnaire completion rate of 100%. The ordering of the item means within scales clustered as hypothesized. All item-scale correlations exceeded the suggested criteria for reliability with success rate of 100% and low floor and ceiling effects. All scales reached the criteria for group comparison and factor analysis identified two principal components that jointly accounted for 67.5% of the total variance. Role emotional and vitality were strongly correlated with physical and mental components, respectively, while social functioning was moderately correlated with both components. Role physical and mental health scales were, respectively, the most valid measures of the physical and mental health component. In the comparisons between groups that differed by the presence or absence of depression, subjects who reported having the disease had lower mean scores in all scales and mental health scale discriminated best between the two groups. Among those healthy and with one, two or three and more chronic illness, the average scores were inverted related to the number of diseases. Body pain, general health and vitality were the most discriminating scales between healthy and diseased groups. Higher scores were associated with
2011-01-01
Background In Brazil, despite the growing use of SF-36 in different research environments, most of the psychometric evaluation of the translated questionnaire was from studies with samples of patients. The purpose of this paper is to examine if the Brazilian version of SF-36 satisfies scaling assumptions, reliability and validity required for valid interpretation of the SF-36 summated ratings scales in the general population. Methods 12,423 individuals and their spouses living in 8,048 households were selected from a stratified sample of all permanent households along the country to be interviewed using the Brazilian SF-36 (version 2). Psychometric tests were performed to evaluate the scaling assumptions based on IQOLA methodology. Results Data quality was satisfactory with questionnaire completion rate of 100%. The ordering of the item means within scales clustered as hypothesized. All item-scale correlations exceeded the suggested criteria for reliability with success rate of 100% and low floor and ceiling effects. All scales reached the criteria for group comparison and factor analysis identified two principal components that jointly accounted for 67.5% of the total variance. Role emotional and vitality were strongly correlated with physical and mental components, respectively, while social functioning was moderately correlated with both components. Role physical and mental health scales were, respectively, the most valid measures of the physical and mental health component. In the comparisons between groups that differed by the presence or absence of depression, subjects who reported having the disease had lower mean scores in all scales and mental health scale discriminated best between the two groups. Among those healthy and with one, two or three and more chronic illness, the average scores were inverted related to the number of diseases. Body pain, general health and vitality were the most discriminating scales between healthy and diseased groups. Higher
Pua, Yong-Hao; Liang, Zhiqi; Ong, Peck-Hoon; Bryant, Adam L; Lo, Ngai-Nung; Clark, Ross A
2011-12-01
Knee extensor strength is an important correlate of physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis; however, it remains unclear whether standing balance is also a correlate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cross-sectional associations of knee extensor strength, standing balance, and their interaction with physical function. One hundred four older adults with end-stage knee osteoarthritis awaiting a total knee replacement (mean ± SD age 67 ± 8 years) participated. Isometric knee extensor strength was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Standing balance performance was measured by the center of pressure displacement during quiet standing on a balance board. Physical function was measured by the self-report Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire and by the 10-meter fast-pace gait speed test. After adjustment for demographic and knee pain variables, we detected significant knee strength by standing balance interaction terms for both SF-36 physical function and fast-pace gait speed. Interrogation of the interaction revealed that standing balance in the anteroposterior plane was positively related to physical function among patients with lower knee extensor strength. Conversely, among patients with higher knee extensor strength, the standing balance-physical function associations were, or tended to be, negative. These findings suggest that although standing balance was related to physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis, this relationship was complex and dependent on knee extensor strength level. These results are of importance in developing intervention strategies and refining theoretical models, but they call for further study. Copyright © 2011 by the American College of Rheumatology.
Convergent validity between SF-36 and WHOQOL-BREF in older adults
Castro, Paula Costa; Driusso, Patrícia; Oishi, Jorge
2014-01-01
OBJECTIVE To compare the reliability and convergent validity of instruments assessing quality of life in Brazilian older adults. METHODS Cross-sectional study of 278 literate, community-dwelling older adults attending a municipal university for the elderly in Sao Carlos, SP, Southeastern Brazil between 2006 and 2008. The Brazilian versions of the SF-36 and WHOQOL-BREF instruments to assess quality of life were compared. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to estimate reliability and Pearson’s correlation for comparison between the two scales. RESULTS Most of participants were women (87.8%) with a mean age of 63.83±7.22 years. Both scales showed an acceptable internal consistency – WHOQOL-BREF Cronbach’s alpha was 0.832 and SF-36 was 0.868. There was a weak (r ≤ 0.6) correlation between the related fields in the two questionnaires. CONCLUSIONS The SF-36 and WHOQOL-BREF are reliable instruments for clinical and research uses in Brazilian older women. To select one, researchers should consider which aspects of quality of life they aim to capture because of weak convergent validity signs. This study’s results indicate that WHOQOL-BREF may be more relevant to evaluate changes in the quality of life of older women because it prioritizes responses to the aging process and avoids focusing on impairment. PMID:24789638
Ishida, Yasushi; Honda, Misato; Kamibeppu, Kiyoko; Ozono, Shuichi; Okamura, Jun; Asami, Keiko; Maeda, Naoko; Sakamoto, Naoko; Inada, Hiroko; Iwai, Tsuyako; Kakee, Naoko; Horibe, Keizo
2011-05-01
Social outcomes and quality of life (QOL) of childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) remain unknown in Japan. We investigated these outcomes in young adult CCSs compared to those of their siblings in Japan, and analyzed the association between social outcome and SF-36 health survey subscale scores. Between 2007 and 2009, we performed a cross-sectional survey using self-rating questionnaires. We estimated social outcomes and health-related QOL by performing the SF-36 in each group: CCSs with or without stem cell transplantation (SCT)/radiotherapy (RT) and their siblings. Adjusted odds ratios for outcomes of interest were estimated using logistic regression analysis. Questionnaires from 185 CCSs and 72 CCS's siblings were analyzed. There were no differences in educational attainment or annual income. The SF-36 subscale scores of CCSs with SCT and RT were significantly lower than those of siblings in physical functioning (PF) (p < 0.001 and 0.003, respectively) and general health (GH) (both p = 0.001). Lower PF scores correlated with recurrence (p = 0.041) and late effects (p = 0.010), and poor GH scores with late effects (p = 0.006). The CCSs had made efforts to attain educational/vocational goals; however, a significant proportion of CCSs who had experienced late effects remain at increased risk of experiencing diminished QOL.
Windsor, Timothy D; Rodgers, Bryan; Butterworth, Peter; Anstey, Kaarin J; Jorm, Anthony F
2006-09-01
The effects of using different approaches to scoring the SF-12 summary scales of physical and mental health were examined with a view to informing the design and interpretation of community-based survey research. Data from a population-based study of 7485 participants in three cohorts aged 20-24, 40-44 and 60-64 years were used to examine relationships among measures of physical and mental health calculated from the same items using the SF-12 and RAND-12 approaches to scoring, and other measures of chronic physical conditions and psychological distress. A measure of physical health constructed using the RAND-12 scoring showed a monotonic negative association with psychological distress as measured by the Goldberg depression and anxiety scales. However, a non-monotonic association was evident in the relationship between SF-12 physical health scores and distress, with very high SF-12 physical health scores corresponding with high levels of distress. These relationships highlight difficulties in interpretation that can arise when using the SF-12 summary scales in some analytical contexts. It is recommended that community surveys that measure physical and mental functioning using the SF-12 items generate summary scores using the RAND-12 protocol in addition to the SF-12 approach. In general, researchers should be wary of using factor scores based on orthogonal rotation, which assumes that measures are uncorrelated, to represent constructs that have an actual association.
Atif, Muhammad; Sulaiman, Syed Azhar Syed; Shafie, Asrul Akmal; Asif, Muhammad; Ahmad, Nafees
2013-10-01
The aim of the study was to obtain norms of the SF-36v2 health survey and the association of summary component scores with socio-demographic variables in healthy households of tuberculosis (TB) patients. All household members (18 years and above; healthy; literate) of registered tuberculosis patients who came for contact tracing during March 2010 to February 2011 at the respiratory clinic of Penang General Hospital were invited to complete the SF-36v2 health survey using the official translation of the questionnaire in Malay, Mandarin, Tamil and English. Scoring of the questionnaire was done using Quality Metric's QM Certified Scoring Software version 4. Multivariate analysis was conducted to uncover the predictors of physical and mental health. A total of 649 eligible respondents were approached, while 525 agreed to participate in the study (response rate = 80.1 %). Out of consenting respondents, 46.5 % were male and only 5.3 % were over 75 years. Internal consistencies met the minimum criteria (α > 0.7). Reliability coefficients of the scales were always less than their own reliability coefficients. Mean physical component summary scale scores were equivalent to United States general population norms. However, there was a difference of more than three norm-based scoring points for mean mental component summary scores indicating poor mental health. A notable proportion of the respondents was at the risk of depression. Respondents aged 75 years and above (p = 0.001; OR 32.847), widow (p = 0.013; OR 2.599) and postgraduates (p < 0.001; OR 7.865) were predictors of poor physical health while unemployment (p = 0.033; OR 1.721) was the only predictor of poor mental health. The SF-36v2 is a valid instrument to assess HRQoL among the households of TB patients. Study findings indicate the existence of poor mental health and risk of depression among family caregivers of TB patients. We therefore recommend that caregivers of TB patients to be offered intensive support and
2011-01-01
Background Many patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) have overlapping gastroenterological causes of recurrent chest pain, mainly due to gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and aspirin-induced gastrointestinal tract damage. These symptoms can be alleviated by proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The study addressed whether omeprazole treatment also affects general health-related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with CAD. Study 48 patients with more than 50% narrowing of the coronary arteries on angiography without clinically overt gastrointestinal symptoms were studied. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study design, patients were randomized to take omeprazole 20 mg bid or a placebo for two weeks, and then crossed over to the other study arm. The SF-36 questionnaire was completed before treatment and again after two weeks of therapy. Results Patients treated with omeprazole in comparison to the subjects taking the placebo had significantly greater values for the SF-36 survey (which relates to both physical and mental health), as well as for bodily pain, general health perception, and physical health. In comparison to the baseline values, therapy with omeprazole led to a significant increase in the three summarized health components: total SF-36; physical and mental health; and in the following detailed health concept scores: physical functioning, limitations due to physical health problems, bodily pain and emotional well-being. Conclusions A double dose of omeprazole improved the general HRQL in patients with CAD without severe gastrointestinal symptoms more effectively than the placebo. PMID:21939510
Andersen, Daniel A; Roos, Bernard A; Stanziano, Damian C; Gonzalez, Natasha M; Signorile, Joseph F
2007-01-01
The relationship between perceived health and walker use has seldom been addressed. Concerns over falls and falls risk are precursors to walker use. We compared the SF-36 scores of 26 women and 14 men, mean age 86.8 +/- 6.0 years based on walker use and faller status. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with age as the covariate, compared groups for the SF-36 constructs and totals score. Significant differences were noted between walker users and nonusers in physical functioning, role limitations due to physical problems, general health, and the total SF-36 score. Pairwise comparisons favored nonusers, while no differences were seen due to faller status. Walker use is associated with lower self-perceptions of physical functioning, role limitations due to physical problems, and general health in assisted-living residents. Faller status is not associated with self-perceived health status. Although walker use aids mobility and lowers the probability of falls, further research is needed to determine if the prescription of assistive devices has a more negative impact on self-perceived health than does falling. This possibility could be explained, in part, by the greater activity levels of those individuals who do not depend on walkers.
Arefnasab, Zahra; Ghanei, Mostafa; Noorbala, Ahmad Ali; Alipour, Ahmad; Babamahmoodi, Farhang; Babamahmoodi, Abdolreza; Salehi, Maryam
2013-09-01
Studies have shown that Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) has positive effect on physical and psychological dimensions of chronic illnesses. In this study for the first time we examine the effect of this new technique on quality of life and pulmonary function in chemically pulmonary injured veterans who have chronic pulmonary problem, psychological problems and low quality of life. Forty male pulmonary injured veterans were randomly replaced in two groups with 20 participants (MBSR and control Wait List (WL)). Then MBSR group received 8-weekly sessions intervention. We evaluate quality of life (used SF-36 questionnaire) and Spirometry parameters two times; before and after intervention in two group. We used "mixed factorial analyses of variance" test for analyzing data in each dependent variables. Then if we have significant interactional effect, we used -paired- sample t-test" for comparing before and after intervention data of each group, and "Independent-Sample t-test" for comparing after intervention data of two groups. The MBSR compare to WL group improved SF-36 total score, (F (1, 38) =12.09, P=0.001), "Role limitations due to physical problems"(F(1,38)= 6.92, P=0.01), "Role limitations due to emotional problems"(F(1,38)= 7.75, P=0.008), "Social functioning"(F(1,38)= 9.89, P=0.003), "Mental health"(F(1,38)= 15.93, P=0), "Vitality"(F(1,38)= 40.03, P≤0.001), and "Pain"(F(1,38)= 27.60, P≤0.001). MBSR had no significant effect on "FEV1" (F (1, 38) = 0.03, P=0.85),"FVC" (F (1, 38) = 0.16, P=0.69) and "FEV1/FVC" (F (1, 38) = 2.21, P=0.14). MBSR can improve individual's quality of life but not lung function in chemically pulmonary injured veterans.
2013-01-01
Background Knee extensor strength and knee extension range of motion (ROM) are important predictors of physical function in patients with a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the relationship between the two knee measures remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine whether changes in knee extensor strength mediate the association between changes in knee extension ROM and self-report physical function. Methods Data from 441 patients with a TKA were collected preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Self-report measure of physical function was assessed by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Knee extensor strength was measured by handheld dynamometry and knee extension ROM by goniometry. A bootstrapped cross product of coefficients approach was used to evaluate mediation effects. Results Mediation analyses, adjusted for clinicodemographic measures, revealed that the association between changes in knee extension ROM and SF-36 physical function was mediated by changes in knee extensor strength. Conclusions In patients with TKA, knee extensor strength mediated the influence of knee extension ROM on physical function. These results suggest that interventions to improve the range of knee extension may be useful in improving knee extensor performance. PMID:23332039
Physical Function Does Not Predict Care Assessment Need Score in Older Veterans.
Serra, Monica C; Addison, Odessa; Giffuni, Jamie; Paden, Lydia; Morey, Miriam C; Katzel, Leslie
2017-01-01
The Veterans Health Administration's Care Assessment Need (CAN) score is a statistical model, aimed to predict high-risk patients. We were interested in determining if a relationship existed between physical function and CAN scores. Seventy-four older (71 ± 1 years) male Veterans underwent assessment of CAN score and subjective (Short Form-36 [SF-36]) and objective (self-selected walking speed, four square step test, short physical performance battery) assessment of physical function. Approximately 25% of participants self-reported limitations performing lower intensity activities, while 70% to 90% reported limitations with more strenuous activities. When compared with cut points indicative of functional limitations, 35% to 65% of participants had limitations for each of the objective measures. Any measure of subjective or objective physical function did not predict CAN score. These data indicate that the addition of a physical function assessment may complement the CAN score in the identification of high-risk patients.
Hung, Stanley H; Rankin, Anne; Virji-Babul, Naznin; Pritchard, Sheila; Fryer, Christopher; Campbell, Kristin L
2017-01-01
Purpose: This cross-sectional, observational study investigated whether physical activity (PA) levels are associated with motor performance and physical function in children after treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Method: Participants aged 8-13 years who had completed treatment for ALL (3-36 months post-treatment) were tested at their oncology long-term follow-up appointment at the British Columbia Children's Hospital. PA level was measured using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C). Motor performance was measured using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition, Short Form (BOT-2 SF), and physical function was measured using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Results: Thirteen children completed testing. PAQ-C scores were not associated with BOT-2 SF or 6MWT performance. Eleven children (85%) performed below the norm for the 6MWT. Children with elevated body mass index had poorer 6MWT but similar PAQ-C scores. Conclusion: PA was not found to be associated with motor performance and physical function. Participants who were overweight or obese had poorer 6MWT performance, which may indicate the need for closer monitoring of post-treatment weight status and physical function in the oncology follow-up setting.
Hung, Stanley H.; Rankin, Anne; Virji-Babul, Naznin; Pritchard, Sheila; Fryer, Christopher
2017-01-01
Purpose: This cross-sectional, observational study investigated whether physical activity (PA) levels are associated with motor performance and physical function in children after treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Method: Participants aged 8–13 years who had completed treatment for ALL (3–36 months post-treatment) were tested at their oncology long-term follow-up appointment at the British Columbia Children's Hospital. PA level was measured using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C). Motor performance was measured using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition, Short Form (BOT-2 SF), and physical function was measured using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Results: Thirteen children completed testing. PAQ-C scores were not associated with BOT-2 SF or 6MWT performance. Eleven children (85%) performed below the norm for the 6MWT. Children with elevated body mass index had poorer 6MWT but similar PAQ-C scores. Conclusion: PA was not found to be associated with motor performance and physical function. Participants who were overweight or obese had poorer 6MWT performance, which may indicate the need for closer monitoring of post-treatment weight status and physical function in the oncology follow-up setting. PMID:28154445
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Mendes, Salome; Severo, Milton; Lopes, Carla
2012-01-01
To compare two modes of administration (self-administered; by interviewer) and two response options format (using words; images of "facial-expressions") of the first question of SF-36 (Q1SF-36), and to test its validity. We included 825 participants (20-90 years). Q1SF-36, using words or images, was included in a global questionnaire interview and…
[Development of the Portuguese version of MOS SF-36. Part I. Cultural and linguistic adaptation].
Ferreira, P L
2000-01-01
No one aims at applying generic measures as substitutes for other more traditional clinical procedures. The whole history of the evolution of these types of measures has been based on comparisons with clinical measures, always seen by researchers as ways to validate health outcome measures and as a process to be recognized by clinicians as a way to detect changes in time not always detected by the usual measures. The measurement instrument presented in this paper is the Portuguese version of the MOS SF-36, originally a result of the Medical Outcomes Study, a study carried out by Rand Corporation researchers in the 80's. One of the objectives of these researchers was precisely to develop instruments to be used in continuous monitoring of outcomes. This paper describes the first time MOS SF-36 was culturally adapted to Portuguese, validated and implemented. The first part mentions some of the foundations and developments of the original instrument as well as some results obtained from some specific applications. The second part introduces operational definitions for each of the eight scales and describes the SF-36 measurement model as well as the factor structure with two dimensions. Next, we present the design used by us to transform the data from the time they are collected from the respondents to the time they are ready to be further used. Finally, the methodology used to culturally adapt the MOS SF-36 and create a Portuguese version which is culturally equivalent are presented.
Measuring Disparities: Bias in the SF-36v2 among Spanish-speaking Medical Patients
Sudano, Joseph J.; Perzynski, Adam; Love, Thomas E.; Lewis, Steven A.; Murray, Patrick M.; Huber, Gail; Ruo, Bernice; Baker, David W.
2011-01-01
Background Many national surveys have found substantial differences in self-reported overall health (SROH) between Spanish-speaking Hispanics and other racial/ethnic groups. However, because cultural and language differences may create measurement bias, it is unclear whether observed differences in SROH reflect true differences in health. Objectives This study uses a cross-sectional survey to investigate psychometric properties of the SF-36v2 for subjects across four racial/ethnic and language groups. Multi-group latent variable modeling was used to test increasingly stringent criteria for measurement equivalence. Subjects Our sample (N = 1281) included 383 non-Hispanic whites, 368 non-Hispanic blacks, 206 Hispanics interviewed in English and 324 Hispanics interviewed in Spanish recruited from outpatient medical clinics in two large urban areas. Results We found weak factorial invariance across the four groups. However, there was no strong factorial invariance. The overall fit of the model was substantially worse (change in CFI > .02, RMSEA change > .003) after requiring equal intercepts across all groups. Further comparisons established that the equality constraints on the intercepts for Spanish-speaking Hispanics were responsible for the decrement to model fit. Conclusions Observed differences between SF-36v2 scores for Spanish speaking Hispanics are systematically biased relative to the other three groups. The lack of strong invariance suggests the need for caution when comparing SF-36v2 mean scores of Spanish-speaking Hispanics with those of other groups. However, measurement equivalence testing for this study supports correlational or multivariate latent variable analyses of SF-36v2 responses across all four subgroups, since these analyses require only weak factorial invariance. PMID:21430580
Verdam, Mathilde G E; Oort, Frans J; Sprangers, Mirjam A G
2016-06-01
The structural equation modeling (SEM) approach for detection of response shift (Oort in Qual Life Res 14:587-598, 2005. doi: 10.1007/s11136-004-0830-y ) is especially suited for continuous data, e.g., questionnaire scales. The present objective is to explain how the SEM approach can be applied to discrete data and to illustrate response shift detection in items measuring health-related quality of life (HRQL) of cancer patients. The SEM approach for discrete data includes two stages: (1) establishing a model of underlying continuous variables that represent the observed discrete variables, (2) using these underlying continuous variables to establish a common factor model for the detection of response shift and to assess true change. The proposed SEM approach was illustrated with data of 485 cancer patients whose HRQL was measured with the SF-36, before and after start of antineoplastic treatment. Response shift effects were detected in items of the subscales mental health, physical functioning, role limitations due to physical health, and bodily pain. Recalibration response shifts indicated that patients experienced relatively fewer limitations with "bathing or dressing yourself" (effect size d = 0.51) and less "nervousness" (d = 0.30), but more "pain" (d = -0.23) and less "happiness" (d = -0.16) after antineoplastic treatment as compared to the other symptoms of the same subscale. Overall, patients' mental health improved, while their physical health, vitality, and social functioning deteriorated. No change was found for the other subscales of the SF-36. The proposed SEM approach to discrete data enables response shift detection at the item level. This will lead to a better understanding of the response shift phenomena at the item level and therefore enhances interpretation of change in the area of HRQL.
Physical activity levels early after lung transplantation.
Wickerson, Lisa; Mathur, Sunita; Singer, Lianne G; Brooks, Dina
2015-04-01
Little is known of the early changes in physical activity after lung transplantation. The purposes of this study were: (1) to describe physical activity levels in patients up to 6 months following lung transplantation and (2) to explore predictors of the change in physical activity in that population. This was a prospective cohort study. Physical activity (daily steps and time spent in moderate-intensity activity) was measured using an accelerometer before and after transplantation (at hospital discharge, 3 months, and 6 months). Additional functional measurements included submaximal exercise capacity (measured with the 6-Minute Walk Test), quadriceps muscle torque, and health-related quality of life (measured with the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey 36 [SF-36] and the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire). Thirty-six lung transplant recipients (18 men, 18 women; mean age=49 years, SD=14) completed posttransplant measurements. Before transplant, daily steps were less than a third of the general population. By 3 months posttransplant, the largest improvement in physical activity had occurred, and level of daily steps reached 55% of the general population. The change in daily steps (pretransplant to 3 months posttransplant) was inversely correlated with pretransplant 6-minute walk distance (r=-.48, P=.007), daily steps (r=-.36, P=.05), and SF-36 physical functioning (SF-36 PF) score (r=-.59, P=.0005). The SF-36 PF was a significant predictor of the change in physical activity, accounting for 35% of the variation in change in daily steps. Only individuals who were ambulatory prior to transplant and discharged from the hospital in less than 3 months were included in the study. Physical activity levels improve following lung transplantation, particularly in individuals with low self-reported physical functioning. However, the majority of lung transplant recipients remain sedentary between 3 to 6 months following transplant. The role of exercise
Progressive multiple sclerosis, cognitive function, and quality of life.
Højsgaard Chow, Helene; Schreiber, Karen; Magyari, Melinda; Ammitzbøll, Cecilie; Börnsen, Lars; Romme Christensen, Jeppe; Ratzer, Rikke; Soelberg Sørensen, Per; Sellebjerg, Finn
2018-02-01
Patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) often have cognitive impairment in addition to physical impairment. The burden of cognitive and physical impairment progresses over time, and may be major determinants of quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess to which degree quality of life correlates with physical and cognitive function in progressive MS. This is a retrospective study of 52 patients with primary progressive ( N = 18) and secondary progressive MS ( N = 34). Physical disability was assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale, Timed 25 Foot Walk (T25FW) test and 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT). Cognitive function was assessed using Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, and Trail Making Test B (TRAIL-B). In addition, quality of life was assessed by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Only measures of cognitive function correlated with the overall SF-36 quality of life score and the Mental Component Summary score from the SF-36. The only physical measure that correlated with a measure of quality of life was T25FW test, which correlated with the Physical Component Summary from the SF-36. We found no other significant correlations between the measures of cognitive function and the overall physical measures but interestingly, we found a possible relationship between the 9HPT score for the nondominant hand and the SDMT and TRAIL-B. Our findings support inclusion of measures of cognitive function in the assessment of patients with progressive MS as these correlated closer with quality of life than measures of physical impairment.
Chapple, Lee-Anne S; Deane, Adam M; Williams, Lauren T; Strickland, Richard; Schultz, Chris; Lange, Kylie; Heyland, Daren K; Chapman, Marianne J
2017-03-01
Patients admitted to the ICU with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are at risk of muscle wasting but this has not been quantified. Our aims were to describe longitudinal changes in anthropometrical data, compare the accuracy of non-invasive methodologies to the validated dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and assess the relationships between anthropometrical data and self-reported physical function. In a prospective observational study, we recruited patients admitted to the ICU with a moderate-to-severe TBI over 12 months. Anthropometric measurements included the subjective global assessment (SGA), bodyweight and ultrasoundderived quadriceps muscle layer thickness (QMLT), which we performed weekly in hospital and 3 months after admission. We assessed total body composition using DXA within 7 days of ICU discharge, and compared the total lean muscle mass with ultrasound-derived QMLT taken within 5 days of the DXA measurement. We assessed functional outcomes at 3 months using the physical component score of the Short Form-36 (SF- 36) and the Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS-E). Thirty-seven patients were included, with a mean age of 45 years (SD, 16 years), and 87% were men. Participants were admitted to the ICU for a mean of 13 days (IQR, 6-18 days) and to hospital for a mean of 38 days (IQR, 19-52 days). They had significant weight loss in hospital (mean, 4.9% [SD, 7.7%]; P = 0.001). Malnutrition, measured with the SGA, was twice as prevalent at hospital discharge than at admission (P = 0.005). A reduction in QMLT occurred in the ICU but stabilised after ICU discharge. DXA-derived total lean mass taken within 7 days of ICU discharge strongly correlated with ultrasound-derived QMLT taken within 5 days of DXA measurements (ρ = 0.74, P = 0.037). Improvements in self-reported physical function, using the SF- 36 and GOS-E at 3 months, were associated with a greater QMLT at hospital discharge (SF-36: ρ = 0.536, P = 0.010; GOS-E: ρ = 0.595, P = 0.003, n = 23) and
Hill, S; Harries, U; Popay, J
1996-01-01
STUDY OBJECTIVE: To examine the short form 36 (SF-36) health status measure when used to assess older people's views of the outcome of community based health care. DESIGN: Completion of a structured questionnaire, before and after intervention alongside in-depth interviews with a subsample of the interviewees. SETTING: Community based continence and mental health services in two health authorities in the North West Health Region. PATIENTS: Forty seven older people newly referred to mental health services or continence services between December 1992 and April 1993 participated. MAIN RESULTS: The SF-36 showed minimal change over time for both patient groups. The more detailed in-depth interviews showed that people experienced positive changes and derived value from contact with services in a number of important ways. For many reasons these benefits were not reflected in their SF-36 scores. CONCLUSIONS: The SF-36 is not likely to be the "measure of choice" for this type of evaluation, particularly where it involves older patient groups who have high levels of comorbidity. The content of the SF-36 and its lack of detail for individual assessment of change means it masks rather than illuminates patients' views of outcome. PMID:8762362
Montazeri, Ali; Vahdaninia, Mariam; Mousavi, Sayed Javad; Omidvari, Speideh
2009-09-16
The 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) as a shorter alternative of the SF-36 is largely used in health outcomes surveys. The aim of this study was to validate the SF-12 in Iran. A random sample of the general population aged 15 years and over living in Tehran, Iran completed the SF-12. Reliability was estimated using internal consistency and validity was assessed using known groups comparison and convergent validity. In addition, the factor structure of the questionnaire was extracted by performing both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). In all, 5587 individuals were studied (2721 male and 2866 female). The mean age and formal education of the respondents were 35.1 (SD = 15.4) and 10.2 (SD = 4.4) years respectively. The results showed satisfactory internal consistency for both summary measures, that are the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and the Mental Component Summary (MCS); Cronbach's alpha for PCS-12 and MCS-12 was 0.73 and 0.72, respectively. Known-groups comparison showed that the SF-12 discriminated well between men and women and those who differed in age and educational status (P < 0.001). In addition, correlations between the SF-12 scales and single items showed that the physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain and general health subscales correlated higher with the PCS-12 score, while the vitality, social functioning, role emotional and mental health subscales more correlated with the MCS-12 score lending support to its good convergent validity. Finally the principal component analysis indicated a two-factor structure (physical and mental health) that jointly accounted for 57.8% of the variance. The confirmatory factory analysis also indicated a good fit to the data for the two-latent structure (physical and mental health). In general the findings suggest that the SF-12 is a reliable and valid measure of health related quality of life among Iranian population. However, further studies are needed to
Physical Activity and Physical Function in Individuals Post-bariatric Surgery
Josbeno, Deborah A.; Kalarchian, Melissa; Sparto, Patrick J.; Otto, Amy D.; Jakicic, John M.
2016-01-01
Background A better understanding of the physical activity behavior of individuals who undergo bariatric surgery will enable the development of effective post-surgical exercise guidelines and interventions to enhance weight loss outcomes. This study characterized the physical activity profile and physical function of 40 subjects 2–5 years post-bariatric surgery and examined the association between physical activity, physical function, and weight loss after surgery. Methods Moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) was assessed with the BodyMedia SenseWear® Pro (SWPro) armband, and physical function (PF) was measured using the physical function subscale of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey instrument (SF-36PF). Height and weight were measured. Results Percent of excess weight loss (%EWL) was associated with MVPA (r = 0.44, p = 0.01) and PF (r = 0.38, p = 0.02); MVPA was not associated with PF (r = 0.24, p = 0.14). Regression analysis demonstrated that MVPA was associated with %EWL (β = 0.38, t = 2.43, p = 0.02). Subjects who participated in ≥150 min/week of MVPA had a greater %EWL (68.2 ± 19, p = 0.01) than those who participated in <150 min/week (52.5 ± 17.4). Conclusions Results suggest that subjects are capable of performing most mobility activities. However, the lack of an association between PF and MVPA suggests that a higher level of PF does not necessarily correspond to a higher level of MVPA participation. Thus, the barriers to adoption of a more physically active lifestyle may not be fully explained by the subjects’ physical limitations. Further understanding of this relationship is needed for the development of post-surgical weight loss guidelines and interventions. PMID:21153567
Benda, Nathalie M M; Seeger, Joost P H; Stevens, Guus G C F; Hijmans-Kersten, Bregina T P; van Dijk, Arie P J; Bellersen, Louise; Lamfers, Evert J P; Hopman, Maria T E; Thijssen, Dick H J
2015-01-01
Physical fitness is an important prognostic factor in heart failure (HF). To improve fitness, different types of exercise have been explored, with recent focus on high-intensity interval training (HIT). We comprehensively compared effects of HIT versus continuous training (CT) in HF patients NYHA II-III on physical fitness, cardiovascular function and structure, and quality of life, and hypothesize that HIT leads to superior improvements compared to CT. Twenty HF patients (male:female 19:1, 64±8 yrs, ejection fraction 38±6%) were allocated to 12-weeks of HIT (10*1-minute at 90% maximal workload-alternated by 2.5 minutes at 30% maximal workload) or CT (30 minutes at 60-75% of maximal workload). Before and after intervention, we examined physical fitness (incremental cycling test), cardiac function and structure (echocardiography), vascular function and structure (ultrasound) and quality of life (SF-36, Minnesota living with HF questionnaire (MLHFQ)). Training improved maximal workload, peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) related to the predicted VO2peak, oxygen uptake at the anaerobic threshold, and maximal oxygen pulse (all P<0.05), whilst no differences were present between HIT and CT (N.S.). We found no major changes in resting cardiovascular function and structure. SF-36 physical function score improved after training (P<0.05), whilst SF-36 total score and MLHFQ did not change after training (N.S.). Training induced significant improvements in parameters of physical fitness, although no evidence for superiority of HIT over CT was demonstrated. No major effect of training was found on cardiovascular structure and function or quality of life in HF patients NYHA II-III. Nederlands Trial Register NTR3671.
Hong Kong men with low incomes have worse health-related quality of life as judged by SF-36 scores.
Ko, G T C; Wai, H P S; Tsang, P C C; Chan, H C K
2006-10-01
To analyse the association between income and health-related quality of life using the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) Chinese version in Hong Kong Chinese working population. Cross-sectional observation study. A commercial company in Hong Kong. All clerical and administrative staff of a commercial company was invited to participate; 876 of the 1003 staff agreed. The subjects were categorised into three income groups according to monthly income in Hong Kong dollars (low, < or =10,000; middle, >10,000-25,000; high, >25,000). The mean age of the 288 men and 588 women was 34.9 (standard deviation, 7.9; median, 34.0; range, 18-71) years. SF-36 scores on health-related quality of life. The distribution of income was 30% in high-, 54.8% in middle-, and 15.2% in low-income groups. Women had similar SF-36 scores among different income groups. In men, for most variables there was a significant positive linear correlation between income and SF-36 scores. Low income is associated with a worse health-related quality of life in Hong Kong Chinese men.
Rosalie Driehuis, Emma; van den Akker, Lizanne Eva; de Groot, Vincent; Beckerman, Heleen
2018-02-13
To investigate whether aerobic capacity explains the level of self-reported physical activity, physical functioning, and participation and autonomy in daily living in persons with multiple sclerosis-related fatigue. A cross-sectional study. Sixty-two participants with multiple sclerosis-related fatigue. Aerobic capacity was measured with a leg ergometer and was expressed as maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max, in ml/kg/min). Physical activity was measured with the Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities (PASIPD), physical functioning with the Short Form 36 - physical functioning (SF36-pf), and participation and autonomy in daily living with the Impact on Participation and Autonomy questionnaire (IPA). Multiple regression analyses were performed, adjusted for potential confounders (gender, age, body mass index, educational level, and employment status). Mean maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was 23.9 ml/kg/min (standard deviation (SD) 6.3 ml/kg/min). There was no significant relationship between VO2max and physical activity (PASIPD): β = 0.320, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = -0.109 to 0.749, R2 = 10.8%. Higher VO2max correlated with better physical functioning (SF36-pf): β = 1.527, 95% CI = 0.820-2.234, R2 = 25.9%, and was significantly related to IPA domains "autonomy indoors" (β = -0.043, 95% CI = -0.067 to -0.020, R2 = 20.6%), "autonomy outdoors" (β = -0.037, 95% CI = -0.062 to -0.012, R2 = 18.2%) and "social life and relationships" (β=-0.033, 95% CI = -0.060 to -0.007, R2 = 21.3%). Maximum aerobic capacity was severely reduced in persons with multiple sclerosis-related fatigue. This partly explains the limited physical functioning and restrictions in participation and autonomy indoors, outdoors and in social life and relationships in these persons.
Seo, Seong-Rye; Park, Dong-Jin; Kang, Ji-Hyoun; Lee, Jeong-Won; Lee, Kyung-Eun; Wen, Lihui; Kim, Tae-Jong; Park, Yong-Wook; Lee, Shin-Seok
2016-05-01
Despite its shortcomings, the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) is widely used to assess clinical symptoms and measure therapeutic changes in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). Recently, the revised version of the FIQ (FIQR) was released. In this study, we validated the Korean version of the FIQR and evaluated whether the revised version is superior to the original version in reflecting the physical function and quality of life of these patients. Seventy-nine patients with FM were invited to complete a questionnaire that included the original FIQ, FIQR, Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ), Rheumatology Attitudes Index (RAI), and Medical Outcome Study Short-Form 36 (SF-36). The test-retest reliability was assessed in 55 patients after 1 week, and the Spearman coefficients were 0.604-0.825 and Cronbach's alpha was 0.948 (95% confidence interval 0.930-0.964). The FIQR was significantly correlated with the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), fatigue VAS, RAI, MDHAQ, and physical and mental component summary scores of the SF-36. The FIQR was more strongly associated with the MDHAQ and SF-36 scores than with the original FIQ. Our study showed that the FIQR is a reliable, valid instrument for assessing patients with FM and performs better in the prediction of physical function and health status than the original version. © 2015 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.
van Boheemen, Laurette; Tett, Susan E; Sohl, Evelien; Hugtenburg, Jacqueline G; van Schoor, Natasja M; Peeters, G M E E
2016-06-01
Statin therapy may cause myopathy, but long-term effects on physical function are unclear. We investigated whether statin use is associated with poorer physical function in two population-based cohorts of older adults. Data were from 691 men and women (aged 69-102 years in 2005/2006) in the LASA (Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam) and 5912 women (aged 79-84 years in 2005) in the ALSWH (Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health). Statin use and dose were sourced from containers (LASA) and administrative databases (ALSWH). Physical function was assessed using performance tests, questionnaires on functional limitations and the SF-12 (LASA) and SF-36 (ALSWH) questionnaires. Cross-sectional (both studies) and 3-year prospective associations (ALSWH) were analysed for different statin dosage using linear and logistic regression. In total, 25 % of participants in LASA and 61 % in ALSWH used statins. In the cross-sectional models in LASA, statin users were less likely to have functional limitations (percentage of subjects with at least 1 limitation 63.9 vs. 64.2; odds ratio [OR] 0.6; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.3-0.9) and had better SF-12 physical component scores (mean [adjusted] 47.3 vs. 44.5; beta [B] = 2.8; 95 % CI 1.1-4.5); in ALSWH, statin users had better SF-36 physical component scores (mean [adjusted] 37.4 vs. 36.5; B = 0.9; 95 % CI 0.3-1.5) and physical functioning subscale scores (mean [adjusted] 55.1 vs. 52.6; B = 2.4; 95 % CI 1.1-3.8) than non-users. Similar associations were found for low- and high-dose users and in the prospective models. In contrast, no significant associations were found with performance tests. Two databases from longitudinal population studies in older adults gave comparable results, even though different outcome measures were used. In these two large cohorts, statin use was associated with better self-perceived physical function.
Physical, social and emotional function after work accidents: a medicolegal perspective.
Holtedahl, Robin; Veiersted, Kaj Bo
2007-01-01
The aim of this study was to analyse social and functional consequences of work accidents in a group of workers' compensation claimants who had been referred from the National Insurance Administration for a medicolegal assessment. The injured workers were evaluated on average 3 years after their accidents. Their medical records were analysed, and each injury was scored according to the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS). Participants completed the Short Form Questionnaire (SF-36). Factors relating to outcome on SF-36 were analysed using univariate and multivariate methods. 191 claimants returned the SF-36 (62%), 83% of the respondents had an AIS score of less than two, 33% reported working full time. Compared to population-based norms, the respondents reported significantly reduced health on all eight scales of SF-36. Better health and function was mainly associated with a higher level of education and more serious injuries. The extent of social support in the workplace after the accident was only partly related to outcome. The importance of psychosocial factors when making injury assessments in a medicolegal setting is highlighted.
Selim, Alfredo; Rogers, William; Qian, Shirley; Rothendler, James A; Kent, Erin E; Kazis, Lewis E
2018-04-19
To develop bridging algorithms to score the Veterans Rand-12 (VR-12) scales for comparability to those of the SF-36® for facilitating multi-cohort studies using data from the National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) linked to Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (MHOS), and to provide a model for minimizing non-statistical error in pooled analyses stemming from changes to survey instruments over time. Observational study of MHOS cohorts 1-12 (1998-2011). We modeled 2-year follow-up SF-36 scale scores from cohorts 1-6 based on baseline SF-36 scores, age, and gender, yielding 100 clusters using Classification and Regression Trees. Within each cluster, we averaged follow-up SF-36 scores. Using the same cluster specifications, expected follow-up SF-36 scores, based on cohorts 1-6, were computed for cohorts 7-8 (where the VR-12 was the follow-up survey). We created a new criterion validity measure, termed "extensibility," calculated from the square root of the mean square difference between expected SF-36 scale averages and observed VR-12 item score from cohorts 7-8, weighted by cluster size. VR-12 items were rescored to minimize this quantity. Extensibility of rescored VR-12 items and scales was considerably improved from the "simple" scoring method for comparability to the SF-36 scales. The algorithms are appropriate across a wide range of potential subsamples within the MHOS and provide robust application for future studies that span the SF-36 and VR-12 eras. It is possible that these surveys in a different setting outside the MHOS, especially in younger age groups, could produce somewhat different results.
Leung, Ying Ying; Fong, Warren; Lui, Nai Lee; Thumboo, Julian
2017-01-01
Geographic differences in manifestation of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) could be related to differences in genetic or environmental factors. We aimed to compare the disease activity and functional status using validated outcome measures among patients with PsA of different ethnicities living in the same environment. We performed a cross-sectional study on consecutive patients with PsA classified by the Classification Criteria for Psoriatic Arthritis (CASPAR) criteria from a single center. Sociodemographic data, clinical variables, and patient-reported outcomes were collected using a standardized protocol. Disease activities were assessed by validated composite scores: clinical Disease Activity Index for Psoriatic Arthritis (cDAPSA), Composite Psoriatic Disease Activity Index (CPDAI), and minimal disease activity (MDA). Physical function was assessed with Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and the Medical Outcome Study Short-Form 36 (SF36) physical function subscales. Linear regression analyses were performed to identify variables associated with disease activities and physical function. Ninety-eight patients (51.5%, men) with mean (±SD) age and duration of PsA of 51.5 ± 13.8 and 5.5 ± 8.4 years were recruited. Indian was overrepresented compared with the national distribution of ethnicities. Compared to Chinese, Indian patients were more likely to be using biological therapies, have higher tender joint count, and worse enthesitis. Higher proportion of Indians had higher disease activity categories measured by cDAPSA, CPDAI, and MDA and had poorer physical function. In the multivariable analysis, ethnicity was significantly associated with HAQ and SF36-PF. Compared to Chinese, Indians with PsA living in the same environment had worse disease activity and physical function measured by validated outcomes.
SF-6D population norms for the Hong Kong Chinese general population.
Wong, Carlos K H; Mulhern, Brendan; Cheng, Garvin H L; Lam, Cindy L K
2018-05-24
To estimate population norms for the SF-6D health preference (utility) scores derived from the MOS SF-36 version 1 (SF-36v1), SF-36 version 2 (SF-36v2), and (SF-12v2) health surveys collected from a representative adult sample in Hong Kong, and to assess differences in SF-6D scores across sociodemographic subgroups. A random telephone survey of 2410 Chinese adults was conducted. All respondents completed questionnaires on sociodemographics and presence of chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, chronic rheumatism, chronic lung diseases, stroke, and mental illness), and the short-form 36-item health survey (SF-36) version 1, and selected items of the SF-36v2 that were different from those of SF-36v1. Responses of short-form 12-item health survey (SF-12) were extracted from responses of the SF-36 items. SF-6D health utility scores were derived from SF-36 version 1 (SF-6D SF-36v1 ), SF-36 version 2 (SF-6D SF-36v2 ), and SF-12 version 2 (SF-6D SF-12v2 ) using Hong Kong SF-6D value set. Population norms of SF-6D SF-36v1 , SF-6D SF-36v2 , and SF-6D SF-12v2 for the Hong Kong Chinese were 0.7947 (± 0.0048), 0.7862 (± 0.0049), and 0.8147 (± 0.0050), respectively. Three SF-6D scores were highly correlated (0.861-0.954), and had a high degree of reliability and absolute agreement. Males had higher health utility scores (SF-6D SF-36v1 : 0.0025; SF-6D SF-36v2 : 0.025; SF-6D SF-12v2 : 0.018) but reported less problems in all the dimensions than women. Respondents with a higher number of chronic diseases had lower SF-6D scores. Among all respondents with one or more chronic diseases, those with hypertension scored the highest whereby those with mental illness scored the least. The SF-6D utility scores derived from different SF-36 or SF-12 health surveys were different. The population norms based on these three health surveys enable the normative comparisons of health utility scores from specific population or patient groups, and provide estimates of age-gender adjusted
Montazeri, Ali; Vahdaninia, Mariam; Mousavi, Sayed Javad; Omidvari, Speideh
2009-01-01
Background The 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) as a shorter alternative of the SF-36 is largely used in health outcomes surveys. The aim of this study was to validate the SF-12 in Iran. Methods A random sample of the general population aged 15 years and over living in Tehran, Iran completed the SF-12. Reliability was estimated using internal consistency and validity was assessed using known groups comparison and convergent validity. In addition, the factor structure of the questionnaire was extracted by performing both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Results: In all, 5587 individuals were studied (2721 male and 2866 female). The mean age and formal education of the respondents were 35.1 (SD = 15.4) and 10.2 (SD = 4.4) years respectively. The results showed satisfactory internal consistency for both summary measures, that are the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and the Mental Component Summary (MCS); Cronbach's α for PCS-12 and MCS-12 was 0.73 and 0.72, respectively. Known-groups comparison showed that the SF-12 discriminated well between men and women and those who differed in age and educational status (P < 0.001). In addition, correlations between the SF-12 scales and single items showed that the physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain and general health subscales correlated higher with the PCS-12 score, while the vitality, social functioning, role emotional and mental health subscales more correlated with the MCS-12 score lending support to its good convergent validity. Finally the principal component analysis indicated a two-factor structure (physical and mental health) that jointly accounted for 57.8% of the variance. The confirmatory factory analysis also indicated a good fit to the data for the two-latent structure (physical and mental health). Conclusion In general the findings suggest that the SF-12 is a reliable and valid measure of health related quality of life among Iranian population
Benz, Thomas; Angst, Felix; Lehmann, Susanne; Aeschlimann, André
2013-05-04
According to Antonovsky's salutogenic concept, a strong sense of coherence is associated with physical and psychological health. The goal of this study was to analyze the association of Antonovsky's sense of coherence with physical and psychosocial health components in patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis before and after in- and outpatient rehabilitation. Prospective cohort study with 335 patients, 136 (41%) with hip and 199 (59%) with knee osteoarthritis. The outcome was measured by Short Form-36 (SF-36), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and the Sense of Coherence (SOC-13). Baseline scores of the SF-36 and WOMAC scales and the observed effect sizes after rehabilitation were correlated with the baseline SOC-13. These correlations of the SF-36 scales were compared to the Factor Score Coefficients for the Mental Component Summary of SF-36, which quantify the factor load on the psychosocial dimension. Predictive impact of the baseline SOC-13 for the SF-36 and WOMAC scales (baseline scores and effect sizes) was then determined by multivariate linear regression controlled for possible confounders. At baseline, the SOC-13 correlated with the WOMAC scores between r = 0.18 (stiffness) and r = 0.25 (pain) and with the SF-36 scores between r = 0.10 (physical functioning) and r = 0.53 (mental health). The correlation of these SF-36 correlation coefficients to the Factor Score Coefficient of the SF-36 Mental Component Summary was r = 0.95. The correlations for the effect sizes (baseline → discharge) with the baseline SOC-13 global score were all negative and varied between r = 0.00 (physical functioning) and r = -0.19 (social functioning). In the multivariate linear regression model, the explained variance of the SF-36 scores by the baseline SOC-13 increased continuously from physical to psychosocial health dimensions (from 12.9% to 29.8%). This gradient was consistently observed for both the baseline
Molsted, Stig; Eidemak, Inge; Sorensen, Helle Tauby; Kristensen, Jens Halkjaer
2004-01-01
The number of chronic renal failure patients treated by hemodialysis (HD) is continuously increasing. Most patients have reduced physical capacity and have a high risk of cardiac and vascular diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of 5 months physical exercise of HD patients' physical capacity, self-rated health and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. 33 HD patients were included in the study. HD for more than 3 months, age >18 years. Diabetes mellitus, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal limitations, severe peripheral polyneuropathy, inability to speak Danish or English, dementia or other mental disorders. The patients were randomly assigned to an exercise group (EG, n = 22) or a control group (CG, n = 11). Prior to randomization, baseline testing was performed. The effects were measured by aerobic capacity, '2-min stair climbing', 'squat test', self-rated health (SF36), blood pressure and lipids. All tests were carried out by blinded testers. The intervention consisted of 1 h of physical exercise twice a week for 5 months. 20 patients completed the intervention. Attendance was 74% of all sessions. There were no dropouts caused by complications related to the intervention. The EG had a significant increase in aerobic capacity, 'squat test' and Physical Function and Physical Component Scale (SF36). No significant changes were observed in any of the parameters in the CG. Physical exercise twice a week for 5 months increases physical function and aerobic capacity in HD patients. An exercise program with only two exercise sessions per week seems easy to implement in clinical practice with high attendance among participants. Further investigation is needed to determine the effects on blood pressure and lipids. There were no medical complications related to the exercise program. Copyright 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel
Usefulness of the SF-8 Health Survey for comparing the impact of migraine and other conditions.
Turner-Bowker, Diane M; Bayliss, Martha S; Ware, John E; Kosinski, Mark
2003-12-01
Migraine headaches have been shown to have substantial personal and societal implications. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) assessments of migraineurs have been used to monitor and evaluate patient- and population-based outcomes, and to evaluate effectiveness and responsiveness to treatment. In this paper, we test a new, even shorter generic health survey, the SF-8 Health Survey (SF-8), an alternate form that uses one question to measure each of the eight SF-36 Health Survey (SF-36) domains, in a sub-sample of migraine sufferers. Data from 7557 participants surveyed via the Internet and mail were used to document the burden of migraine on HRQOL and to compare the relative burden of migraine with other chronic conditions using the SF-8. Migraineurs' HRQOL is similar to those with congestive heart failure, hypertension and diabetes, and is better than those with depression. Migraine sufferers experience better physical health and worse mental health (MH) than those with osteoarthritis. Results support prior research indicating that the burden of migraine on functional health and well-being is considerable and comparable to other chronic conditions known to have substantial impact on HRQOL. The SF-8 may provide a more practical and efficient method to describe the burden of migraine in population studies.
Oude Voshaar, Martijn A H; Ten Klooster, Peter M; Vonkeman, Harald E; van de Laar, Mart A F J
2017-11-01
Traditional patient-reported physical function instruments often poorly differentiate patients with mild-to-moderate disability. We describe the development and psychometric evaluation of a generic item bank for measuring everyday activity limitations in outpatient populations. Seventy-two items generated from patient interviews and mapped to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domestic life chapter were administered to 1128 adults representative of the Dutch population. The partial credit model was fitted to the item responses and evaluated with respect to its assumptions, model fit, and differential item functioning (DIF). Measurement performance of a computerized adaptive testing (CAT) algorithm was compared with the SF-36 physical functioning scale (PF-10). A final bank of 41 items was developed. All items demonstrated acceptable fit to the partial credit model and measurement invariance across age, sex, and educational level. Five- and ten-item CAT simulations were shown to have high measurement precision, which exceeded that of SF-36 physical functioning scale across the physical function continuum. Floor effects were absent for a 10-item empirical CAT simulation, and ceiling effects were low (13.5%) compared with SF-36 physical functioning (38.1%). CAT also discriminated better than SF-36 physical functioning between age groups, number of chronic conditions, and respondents with or without rheumatic conditions. The Rasch assessment of everyday activity limitations (REAL) item bank will hopefully prove a useful instrument for assessing everyday activity limitations. T-scores obtained using derived measures can be used to benchmark physical function outcomes against the general Dutch adult population.
Physical health-related quality of life predicts stroke in the EPIC-Norfolk.
Myint, P K; Surtees, P G; Wainwright, N W J; Luben, R N; Welch, A A; Bingham, S A; Wareham, N J; Khaw, K-T
2007-12-11
To examine the relationship between Short Form (SF)-36 physical functional health-related quality of life and incident stroke. A total of 13,615 men and women participating in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer-Norfolk who were free of stroke, myocardial infarction, and cancer at baseline were included in the study. Participants completed a health and lifestyle questionnaire and attended a health examination during 1993 to 1997. Self-reported physical functional health was assessed using physical component summary scores of SF-36 18 months later. Stroke incidence was ascertained by death certification and hospital record linkage up to 2005. There were 244 incident strokes (total person years = 99,191). People who reported better physical functional health had significantly lower risk of incident stroke. Using Cox proportional hazard models adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, physical activity, social class, alcohol consumption, and respiratory function, men and women who were in the top quartile of SF-36 physical component summary scores had half the risk of stroke (RR = 0.50 [0.31, 0.78]) compared to the people in the bottom quartile. The relationships remained unchanged after excluding strokes occurring within the first 2 years of follow-up. Physical functional health-related quality of life measured as Short Form-36 predicts subsequent stroke risk independently of known risk factors in a general population. Poor physical functional health may indicate a high-risk population for stroke who may benefit most from targeted preventive interventions such as management of known risk factors.
Avery, A J; Betts, D S; Whittington, A; Heron, T B; Wilson, S H; Reeves, J P
1998-05-01
In the twelve months following the announcement of the UK pit closure programme in October 1992, 22,500 miners were made redundant. In 1994 we undertook a cross-sectional survey to determine whether the mental and physical health of men who had been employed in the Nottinghamshire mining industry differed from that of the general population. A postal questionnaire was designed incorporating the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and six domains from SF-36. Questionnaires were sent to 1064 miners and ex-miners and 2097 other men in Nottinghamshire. Non-responders were sent two reminders. The final response rate was 51%. The percentage of responders with GHQ-12 scores of three or more (suggesting psychological disorder) was 46% for those still employed in the mining industry, 52% for unemployed former miners and 22% for working non-miners (odds ratios: 3.0 [95% C.I. 2.2-4.1] for current miners and 3.9 [95% C.I. 2.6-5.7] for unemployed miners compared with working non-miners). The miners and ex-miners also had lower scores (suggesting greater morbidity) for each of the SF-36 domains tested. When stratifying for age in respondents of social classes IIIM-V the scores of current miners were significantly lower than those of working non-miners (P < 0.01). This study suggests that when surveyed in 1994, men who had been employed in three Nottinghamshire collieries in 1992 were psychologically and physically disadvantaged compared with working non-miners. Whether these findings are a result of pit closures is uncertain. However, significant potential health needs have been demonstrated.
Anees, Muhammad; Ibrahim, Muhammad; Imtiaz, Marium; Batool, Shazia; Elahi, Irfan; Malik, Muzammil Riaz
2016-08-01
To translate, validate and assess the reliability of kidney disease quality of life - short form (KDQOL-SF-36) in Urdu, national language of Pakistan. Amulticentric descriptive cross-sectional study. Department of Nephrology, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, from February to July 2015. Patients of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) for more than three months, were included in the study. Patients of ESRD not on dialysis, and those with acute renal failure were excluded. The English version of KDQOL-SF-36 was translated in Urdu and then translated back in English; further validation was done by a senior professor of Punjab University, Lahore. One hundred and thirty patients were included in the study. Fifty patients were from Mayo Hospital, 35 from Shalamar Hospital and 50 from Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore. The internal consistency reliability coefficient for overall scale was 0.84. Twelve sub-scales (symptoms, effect of kidney disease, burden of kidney disease, cognitive function, quality of social interaction, sexual function, social support, physical functioning, role physical, pain, emotional well-being and role emotional) had more than 0.70 internal consistency reliability coefficient. Overall mean score of the domains i.e kidney disease component score (KDCS), physical component score (PCS), and mental component score (MCS) was 60.62 ±17.61, 43.12 ±19.54, and 49.27 ±14.52, respectively. Asignificant positive relationship was observed between KDCS and MCS domains, KDCS and PCS domains, PCS, and MCS domains. The Urdu version of KDQOL-SF-36 is a reliable and valid version to measure QOLin kidney disease patients on dialysis in Pakistan.
Quality of life of living kidney donors: the short-form 36-item health questionnaire survey.
Isotani, Shuji; Fujisawa, Masato; Ichikawa, Yasuji; Ishimura, Takeshi; Matsumoto, Osamu; Hamami, Gaku; Arakawa, Soichi; Iijima, Kazumoto; Yoshikawa, Norishige; Nagano, Shunsuke; Kamidono, Sadao
2002-10-01
To determine the psychological and social effects of kidney donation on kidney donors by using the short-form 36-item health survey (SF-36) as the quality-of-life questionnaire. A total of 104 living donor nephrectomies have been performed at Kobe University Hospital and Nishinomiya Prefectural Hospital. We mailed the questionnaires to donors or handed them out directly at the outpatient clinic. The first part of the questionnaire consisted of the SF-36 (limitations on physical functioning because of health problems) and the second part consisted of 15 questions about donation-related stress, expenses incurred, physical changes, and pre-existing factors such as relationship to the recipients. The SF-36 and the questionnaire about donor satisfaction were completed by 69 donors (48 women and 21 men; mean age 52.1 +/- 8.2 years), only 6 of whom (9%) reported minor complications with the donor operation. The SF-36 scores of our donors were not significantly different from that of the general U.S. population and U.S. donors. In some categories (physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, and mental health), our donors scored slightly higher than the U.S. general population. Although 97% of the donors would make the same choice again, 3% believed that donating had had a negative impact on their health, and 16% reported negative financial consequences. The quality of life for kidney donors was not affected by donor nephrectomy. Living kidney transplantation seems to be suitable for the rescue of patients with end-stage renal disease. Better psychological and technical preparation for surgery and more consistent follow-up may reduce the negative outcomes even further.
Work Characteristics Associated with Physical Functioning in Women
Palumbo, Aimee J.; De Roos, Anneclaire J.; Cannuscio, Carolyn; Robinson, Lucy; Mossey, Jana; Weitlauf, Julie; Garcia, Lorena; Wallace, Robert; Michael, Yvonne
2017-01-01
Women make up almost half of the labor force with older women becoming a growing segment of the population. Work characteristics influence physical functioning and women are at particular risk for physical limitations. However, little research has explored the effects of work characteristics on women’s physical functioning. U.S. women between the ages of 50 and 79 were enrolled in the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study between 1993 and 1998. Women provided job titles and years worked at their three longest-held jobs (n = 79,147). Jobs were linked to characteristics in the Occupational Information Network. Three categories of job characteristics related to substantive complexity, physical demand, and social collaboration emerged. The association between job characteristics and physical limitations in later life, measured using a SF-36 Physical Functioning score <25th percentile, was examined using modified Poisson regression. After controlling for confounding variables, high physical demand was positively associated with physical limitations (RR = 1.09 CI: 1.06–1.12) and substantively complex work was negatively associated (RR = 0.94, CI: 0.91–0.96). Jobs requiring complex problem solving, active learning, and critical thinking were associated with better physical functioning. Employers should explore opportunities to reduce strain from physically demanding jobs and incorporate substantively complex tasks into women’s work to improve long-term health. PMID:28420131
Yeğin, Tuğba; Altan, Lale; Kasapoğlu Aksoy, Meliha
2017-01-01
Osteoartritis (OA) is one of the most frequent causes of pain, loss of function and disability in adults. The prevalence of OA is expected to increase substantially in the future. Knee OA is the most common subset of OA. Therapeutic ultrasound (US) is one of several physical therapy modalities suggested for the management of pain and loss of function due to OA. The purpose of our study was to investigate the efficacy of US therapy in reducing pain and functional loss and improving the quality of life in patients with knee OA in comparison to sham US therapy. The study involved 62 patients. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. The patients in group 1 (n = 30) were administered 1 W/cm 2 , 1 MHz continuous US, and the patients in group 2 (n = 32) were administered sham US. The US treatment was applied for 8 min to each knee, 16 min in total, 5 d a wk, for a total of 10 sessions during 2 wk. The patients were evaluated immediately after treatment and 1 mo after therapy according to the visual analog scale (VAS), night pain, range of motion, morning stiffness, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Lequesne and Short Form-36 (SF-36) scales and 6 min walking distance. Improvement in pain and joint functions was observed in both groups according to the evaluation immediately after treatment and at 1 mo after the therapy. According to the evaluation results immediately after treatment, there was significant improvement in all pain scales (VAS, WOMAC, Lequesne, SF-36), morning stiffness and 6 min walking distance in patients receiving real US treatment (p < 0.05), but only in some pain scales (VAS, WOMAC) and functions in the group receiving sham US (p < 0.05). Significantly better improvement was observed in some pain scales (SF-36), functions (WOMAC, SF-36) and 6 min walking distance in the real US group. At 1 mo after therapy, no significant difference was observed between groups except for improvement
Physical Activity and Function in Older, Long-term Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Johnson, Brent L.; Trentham-Dietz, Amy; Koltyn, Kelli F.; Colbert, Lisa H.
2009-01-01
Objective Increasing age and cancer history are related to impaired physical function. Since physical activity has been shown to ameliorate age-related functional declines, we evaluated the association between physical activity and function in older, long-term colorectal cancer survivors. Methods In 2006–2007, mailed surveys were sent to colorectal cancer survivors, aged ≥65 years when diagnosed during 1995 – 2000, and identified through a state cancer registry. Information on physical activity, physical function and relevant covariates was obtained and matched to registry data. Analysis of covariance and linear regression were used to compare means and trends in physical function across levels of activity in the final analytic sample of 843 cases. Results A direct, dose-dependent association between physical activity and function was observed (ptrend <.001), with higher SF-36 physical function subscores in those reporting high vs. low activity levels (65.0 ± 1.7 vs. 42.7 ± 1.7 (mean ± standard error)). Walking, gardening, housework, and exercise activities were all independently related to better physical function. Moderate-vigorous intensity activity (ptrend <.001) was associated with function, but light activity (ptrend =0.39) was not. Conclusion Results from this cross-sectional study indicate significant associations between physical activity and physical function in older, long-term colorectal cancer survivors. PMID:19123055
Early life stress and physical and psychosocial functioning in late adulthood.
Alastalo, Hanna; von Bonsdorff, Mikaela B; Räikkönen, Katri; Pesonen, Anu-Katriina; Osmond, Clive; Barker, David J P; Heinonen, Kati; Kajantie, Eero; Eriksson, Johan G
2013-01-01
Severe stress experienced in early life may have long-term effects on adult physiological and psychological health and well-being. We studied physical and psychosocial functioning in late adulthood in subjects separated temporarily from their parents in childhood during World War II. The 1803 participants belong to the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study, born 1934-44. Of them, 267 (14.8%) had been evacuated abroad in childhood during WWII and the remaining subjects served as controls. Physical and psychosocial functioning was assessed with the Short Form 36 scale (SF-36) between 2001 and 2004. A test for trends was based on linear regression. All analyses were adjusted for age at clinical examination, social class in childhood and adulthood, smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, body mass index, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Physical functioning in late adulthood was lower among the separated men compared to non-separated men (b = -0.40, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: -0.71 to -0.08). Those men separated in school age (>7 years) and who were separated for a duration over 2 years had the highest risk for lower physical functioning (b = -0.89, 95% CI: -1.58 to -0.20) and (b = -0.65, 95% CI: -1.25 to -0.05), respectively). Men separated for a duration over 2 years also had lower psychosocial functioning (b = -0.70, 95% CI: -1.35 to -0.06). These differences in physical and psychosocial functioning were not observed among women. Early life stress may increase the risk for impaired physical functioning in late adulthood among men. Timing and duration of the separation influenced the physical and psychosocial functioning in late adulthood.
Physical function impairment in survivors of critical illness in an ICU Recovery Clinic.
Bakhru, Rita N; Davidson, James F; Bookstaver, Rebecca E; Kenes, Michael T; Welborn, Kristin G; Morris, Peter E; Clark Files, D
2018-06-01
The aims were to 1) determine feasibility of measuring physical function in our ICU Recovery Clinic (RC), 2) determine if physical function was associated with 6-month re-hospitalization and 1-year mortality and 3) compare ICU survivors' physical function to other comorbid populations. We established the Wake Forest ICU RC. Patients were seen in clinic 1month following hospital discharge. Testing included the Short Form-36 questionnaire and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). We related these measures to 6month re-hospitalizations and 1year mortality, and compared patients' functional performance with other comorbid populations. Thirty-six patients were seen in clinic from July 2014 to June 2015; the median SPPB score was 5 (IQR 5). The median SF-36 physical component summary score was 21.8 (IQR 28.8). Mortality was 14% at 1year. Of those who did not die by 1year, 35% were readmitted to our hospital within 6months of hospital discharge. SPPB scores demonstrated a non-significant trend with both mortality (p=0.06) and readmissions (p=0.09). ICU survivors' SPPB scores were significantly lower than those of other chronically ill populations (p<0.001). Physical function measurement in a recovery clinic is feasible and may inform subsequent morbidity and mortality. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Claesson, Margareta; Armitage, W John; Byström, Berit; Montan, Per; Samolov, Branka; Stenvi, Ulf; Lundström, Mats
2017-09-01
Catquest-9SF is a 9-item visual disability questionnaire developed for evaluating patient-reported outcome measures after cataract surgery. The aim of this study was to use Rasch analysis to determine the responsiveness of Catquest-9SF for corneal transplant patients. Patients who underwent corneal transplantation primarily to improve vision were included. One group (n = 199) completed the Catquest-9SF questionnaire before corneal transplantation and a second independent group (n = 199) completed the questionnaire 2 years after surgery. All patients were recorded in the Swedish Cornea Registry, which provided clinical and demographic data for the study. Winsteps software v.3.91.0 (Winsteps.com, Beaverton, OR) was used to assess the fit of the Catquest-9SF data to the Rasch model. Rasch analysis showed that Catquest-9SF applied to corneal transplant patients was unidimensional (infit range, 0.73-1.32; outfit range, 0.81-1.35), and therefore, measured a single underlying construct (visual disability). The Rasch model explained 68.5% of raw variance. The response categories of the 9-item questionnaire were ordered, and the category thresholds were well defined. Item difficulty matched the level of patients' ability (0.36 logit difference between the means). Precision in terms of person separation (3.09) and person reliability (0.91) was good. Differential item functioning was notable for only 1 item (satisfaction with vision), which had a differential item functioning contrast of 1.08 logit. Rasch analysis showed that Catquest-9SF is a valid instrument for measuring visual disability in patients who have undergone corneal transplantation primarily to improve vision.
Functional domains of the human splicing factor ASF/SF2.
Zuo, P; Manley, J L
1993-01-01
The human splicing factor ASF/SF2 displays two predominant activities in in vitro splicing assays: (i) it is an essential factor apparently required for all splices and (ii) it is able to switch utilization of alternative 5' splice sites in a concentration-dependent manner. ASF/SF2 is the prototype of a family of proteins typified by the presence of one or two RNP-type RNA binding domains (RBDs) and a region highly enriched in repeating arginine-serine dipeptides (RS regions). Here we describe a functional analysis of ASF/SF2, which defines several regions essential for one, or both, of its two principal activities, and provides insights into how this type of protein functions in splicing. Two isoforms of the protein, which arise from alternative splicing, are by themselves inactive, but each can block the activity of ASF/SF2, thereby functioning as splicing repressors. Some, but not all, mutations in the RS region prevent ASF/SF2 from functioning as an essential splicing factor. However, the entire RS region can be deleted without reducing splice site switching activity, indicating that it is not absolutely required for interaction with other splicing factors. Experiments with deletion and substitution mutants reveal that the protein contains two related, but highly diverged, RBDs, and that both are essential for activity. Each RBD by itself retains the ability to bind RNA, although optimal binding requires both domains. Images PMID:8223481
Shu, Janet; Lo, Stephen; Phillips, Margot; Sun, Fangui; Seldin, David C; Berenbaum, Isidore; Berk, John L; Sanchorawala, Vaishali
2016-09-01
Our study examines depression and anxiety in patients with immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis, and determines the associations between the mental health problems and patient characteristics (age, gender, race, marital status, alcohol consumption, smoking status and cardiac involvement). Patients with AL amyloidosis who completed the 36-item Short Form General Health Survey (SF-36) during initial evaluation at a single center were studied. The SF-36 included assessments of depression, anxiety, role limitation due to emotional problems and the mental health subscale score. From 1226 patients with AL amyloidosis, 37.0% reported depression and 46.7% reported anxiety. Patients with cardiac amyloidosis reported more anxiety (odds ratio (OR) = 1.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03-1.61) and role limitation due to emotional problems (OR = 1.32, 95%CI 1.05-1.65). No significant association between cardiac involvement and depression was found (OR = 1.22, 95%CI 0.97-1.54). Men reported less anxiety (OR = 0.72, 95%CI 0.57-0.91). Patients ≥65 years experienced greater role limitation (OR = 1.36, 95%CI 1.08-1.71). Smokers (p = 0.019) and women (p = 0.006) scored lower on mental health subscales. Many patients with AL amyloidosis suffer from depression, anxiety and functional limitations. Psychiatric assessment and treatment is important, and further research is needed to clarify the long-term effects of depression and anxiety in AL amyloidosis. This current study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT00898235.
Physical Function and Physical Activity in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients.
Painter, Patricia L; Agarwal, Adhish; Drummond, Micah
2017-01-01
Physical functioning (PF) and physical activity (PA) are low in patients treated with maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). Little information exists on this topic in patients treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD). The objective of this study was to compare PF and PA in patients with Stage-5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) treated with PD and in-center MHD. Physical functioning was measured in 45 prevalent PD patients using standard physical performance measures that include gait speed, chair stand, standing balance, 6-minute-walk, incremental shuttle walk and self-reported PF using the short form (SF)-36 questionnaire. Physical activity was determined from self-report and using the Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors (CHAMPS) questionnaire. Scores for the short physical performance battery (SPPB) were calculated. In-center MHD patients were matched by age, gender, and diabetes status to the PD patients. Unadjusted comparisons showed significantly higher 6-minute-walk distance, shuttle-walk distance and hand-grip in the PD patients. Adjustment in multiple regression analysis resulted in only gait speed being significantly different between the groups. All test results in both groups were lower than reference values for age and gender in the general population, and were at the levels indicating impairment. Physical activity was not different between the 2 groups (average age 49 yrs), and both groups had weekly caloric expenditure from all exercise and from moderate-intensity exercise that was similar to older (> 70 yrs) community-dwelling adults. Adjusted association indicated that PA was significantly associated with shuttle-walk distance. Physical functioning and PA measures were low in both PD and MHD groups. Interventions to improve PA and PF should be strongly considered for both PD and MHD patients. Copyright © 2017 International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis.
Intellectual Ability in Young Adulthood as an Antecedent of Physical Functioning in Older Age
Poranen-Clark, Taina; von Bonsdorff, Mikaela B.; Törmäkangas, Timo; Lahti, Jari; Wasenius, Niko; Räikkönen, Katri; Osmond, Clive; Salonen, Minna K.; Rantanen, Taina; Kajantie, Eero; Eriksson, Johan G.
2016-01-01
Objectives Low cognitive ability is associated with subsequent functional disability. Whether this association extends across adult life has been little studied. The aim of this study was to examine the association between intellectual ability in young adulthood and physical functioning during a 10-year follow-up in older age. Methods 360 persons of the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study (HBCS) male members, born between 1934- 1944 and residing in Finland in 1971, took part in The Finnish Defence Forces Basic Intellectual Ability Test during the first two weeks of their military service training between 1952- 72. Their physical functioning was assessed twice using the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire at average ages of 61 and 71 years. A longitudinal path model linking Intellectual Ability Test score to the physical functioning assessments was used to explore the effect of intellectual ability in young adulthood on physical functioning in older age. Results After adjustments for age at measurement, childhood socioeconomic status and adult BMI (kg/m2), better intellectual ability total and arithmetic and verbal reasoning subtest scores in young adulthood predicted better physical functioning at age 61 years (P-values < 0.021). Intellectual ability total and arithmetic and verbal reasoning subtest scores in young adulthood had indirect effects on physical functioning at age 71 years (P-values < 0.022) through better physical functioning at age 61 years. Adjustment for main chronic diseases did not change the results materially. Conclusion Better early life intellectual ability helps in maintaining better physical functioning in older age. PMID:27189726
Tanaka, Kiyoshi; Fujii, Ayano; Kuwabara, Akiko
2012-02-01
Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) , abbreviated as QOL, can be evaluated by various questionnaires, which are classified as generic and disease-targeted ones. Generic questionnaires are further subdivided into profile-type and preference-based ones. SF-36 and EQ-5D are the best known examples for the former and the latter, respectively. In SF-36 and its shortened one SF-8, the subjects' QOL is expressed by several profiles or subscales. Their advantages include well-conducted validation and availability of national norms. In EQ-5D, a single value representing the subjects' QOL status (utility) is obtained through 5 questions. These generic questionnaires are applicable to patients with various diseases or even to healthy citizens. In contrast, disease-targeted questionnaires lack such features, but can include items that are specifically related to the disease but devoid of general applicability. Thus, generic and disease-targeted questionnaires have their own pros and cons. Selection of the questionnaires depends on the object of the study.
The association between mental health, physical function, and hemodialysis mortality.
Knight, Eric L; Ofsthun, Norma; Teng, Ming; Lazarus, J Michael; Curhan, Gary C
2003-05-01
Mortality rates for individuals on chronic hemodialysis remain very high; therefore, strategies are needed to identify individuals at greatest risk for mortality so preventive strategies can be implemented. One such approach is to stratify individuals by self-reported mental health and physical function. Examining these parameters at baseline, and over time, may help identify individuals at greater risk for mortality. We enrolled 14,815 individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and followed these individuals for up to 2 years. The mean age was 61.0 +/- 15.4 years (range, 20 to 96 years) and 31% were African Americans. The SF-36 Health Survey was administered 1 to 3 months after hemodialysis initiation and 6 months later. We examined the associations between the initial SF-36 Health Survey mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scores and mortality during the follow-up period, and examined the associations between 6-month decline in PCS and MCS scores and subsequent mortality. We also examined the interactions between age and MCS and PCS scores. The general population-based mean of each of these scores was 50 with a standard deviation of 10. The main outcome measurement was death. Self-reported baseline mental health (MCS score) and physical function (PCS score) were both independently associated with increased mortality, and 6-month decline in these parameters was also associated with increased mortality. The multivariate hazard ratios for 1-year mortality for MCS scores of less than 30, 30 to 39, and 40 to 49 were 1.48 (95% CI, 1.32 to 1.64), 1.23 (95% CI, 1.14 to 1.32) and 1.18 (95% CI, 1.10 to 1.26) compared with a MCS score of 50 or more. The hazard ratios for PCS scores of less than 20, 20 to 29, and 30 to 39 were 1.97 (95% CI, 1.64 to 2.36), 1.62 (95% CI, 1.36 to 1.92), and 1.32 (95% CI, 1.11 to 1.57) compared with a PCS score of 50 or more. Six-month decline in self-reported mental health (hazard ratio, 1.07; 95% CI, 1
Risk Factors for Physical Impairment after Acute Lung Injury in a National, Multicenter Study
Wozniak, Amy W.; Hough, Catherine L.; Morris, Peter E.; Dinglas, Victor D.; Jackson, James C.; Mendez-Tellez, Pedro A.; Shanholtz, Carl; Ely, E. Wesley; Colantuoni, Elizabeth
2014-01-01
Rationale: Existing studies of risk factors for physical impairments in acute lung injury (ALI) survivors were potentially limited by single-center design or relatively small sample size. Objectives: To evaluate risk factors for three measures of physical impairments commonly experienced by survivors of ALI in the first year after hospitalization. Methods: A prospective, longitudinal study of 6- and 12-month physical outcomes (muscle strength, 6-minute-walk distance, and Short Form [SF]-36 Physical Function score) for 203 survivors of ALI enrolled from 12 hospitals participating in the ARDS Network randomized trials. Multivariable regression analyses evaluated the independent association of critical illness–related variables and intensive care interventions with impairments in each physical outcome measure, after adjusting for patient demographics, comorbidities, and baseline functional status. Measurements and Main Results: At 6 and 12 months, respectively, mean (± SD) values for strength (presented as proportion of maximum strength score evaluated using manual muscle testing) was 92% (± 8%) and 93% (± 9%), 6-minute-walk distance (as percent-predicted) was 64% (± 22%) and 67% (± 26%), and SF-36 Physical Function score (as percent-predicted) was 61% (± 36%) and 67% (± 37%). After accounting for patient baseline status, there was significant association and statistical interaction of mean daily dose of corticosteroids and intensive care unit length of stay with impairments in physical outcomes. Conclusions: Patients had substantial impairments, from predicted values, for 6-minute-walk distance and SF-36 Physical Function outcome measures. Minimizing corticosteroid dose and implementing existing evidence-based methods to reduce duration of intensive care unit stay and associated patient immobilization may be important interventions for improving ALI survivors’ physical outcomes. PMID:24716641
Ericsson, Y B; Ringsberg, K; Dahlberg, L E
2011-12-01
Our purpose was to examine self-efficacy of knee function, physical activity (PA) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in post-meniscectomy patients and controls as well as to explore the impact of gender and the association between outcomes. Ninety-nine post-meniscectomy patients (27% women), mean age 44.5 years, mean (range) of follow-up time 3 (1-5) years, and 94 controls (34% women), mean age 45 years, completed the following questionnaires: the Knee Self-Efficacy Scale (K-SES(ABC) ), the Physical Activity Scale (PAS) and the Short Form-36 (SF-36). Patients scored lower than controls in K-SES(ABC) and in the SF-36 subscales Physical Functioning and Bodily Pain (P≤0.002). Forty-six percent of the patients had resumed pre-injury PA, but current PA did not differ between the groups. In the patients, K-SES(ABC) correlated strongly with four physical SF-36 subscales and one mental scale (Vitality) (r(s) =0.56-0.85, P<0.001) and moderately with three subscales: (r(s) =0.35-0.46, P<0.001) and with PAS (r(s) =0.42, P<0.001). Females scored lower than males in K-SES(ABC) (P=0.006) and in four SF-36 subscales (P<0.04), but reported similar PA as men. We conclude that meniscectomy in middle-aged individuals may lead to lower self-efficacy of knee function, a sedentary lifestyle and poorer HRQoL. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.
Kohli, Puja; Pinto-Plata, Victor; Divo, Miguel; Malhotra, Atul; Harris, Scott; Lazaar, Aili; Flynn, Aiden; Tal-Singer, Ruth; Panettieri, Reynold A.; Celli, Bartolome
2015-01-01
Purpose Prior research has shown a significant relationship between six minute walking distances (6MWD) and health related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, few have examined this relationship above and below the 350 meters (m) threshold that prognosticates survival. We further investigated whether serum biomarkers could provide insight into the causes of quality of life differences above and below this threshold. Methods Measures of lung function, 6MWD, HRQL (SGRQ and SF-36) were compared in patients with COPD. Differences in HRQL domains and serum biomarkers were compared in patients whose 6MWD were > or < 350m. Results In patients walking <350m, scores in the physical domains of the SF-36 and SGRQ were significantly different than their counterparts with greater 6MWD. However, there was no association between any biomarkers and the physical domains of the SF-36 and the SGRQ. In patients walking <350m, only the Il-8 levels were associated with lower scores in SF-36 domains of emotional role, pain, vitality and mental health (average r=−0.702, p=0.01). In contrast, in patients walking >350m, surfactant protein D (SP-D) levels were associated with higher SF-36 scores in general pain, vitality and social functioning (average r = 0.42, p=0.04). Conclusions In COPD, there is an association between 6MWD and the physical domains of the SF-36 and SGRQ in those patients walking < 350m. The physical differences between patients walking less or more than 350m are not related to systemic inflammation. The association between IL-8 with nonphysical domains in patients with 6MWD < 350m suggests that inflammation may play a larger role in the perceptive domain than previously recognized. PMID:26309192
De Pasquale, Concetta; Conti, Daniela; Pistorio, Maria Luisa; Fatuzzo, Pasquale; Veroux, Massimiliano; Di Nuovo, Santo
2017-01-01
The aim of the study was to perform an analysis of the emotional reactions, perception of stressful life and behavioural changes related to Haemodialysis (HD) in order to identify those variables that can improve lifestyle and the adherence to treatment. Some psychometric assessment, such as the Cognitive Behavioural Assessment, Hospital Form, (CBA-H) and the Health Survey (SF-36), which provides two indexes: the Physical Component Score (PCS) and the Mental Component Score (MCS), are suitable to assess a patient's psychological and behavioural style and their health-related quality of life. The study involved 37 Italian out-patients with end-stage renal disease under HD therapy. We calculated the Spearman correlation between variables of CBA-H, SF-36, age and time on HD. We also performed a multivariate linear regression using the CBA-H variables as predictors and PCS and MCS as dependent variables. From the CBA-H, 95% of participants self-reported psychological characteristics comparable to Type A personality, which identifies an anxious, hyperactive and hostile subject. Physical limitations were found to be directly proportional to the time on dialysis (rs = -0.42). The condition of perceived stress worsens the state of mental health (rs = -0.68) and general health perception (rs = -0.44). The condition of vital exhaustion correlates both the PCS and the MCS (p<0.01) with possible outcomes of physical and mental illness. The psychological wellbeing of a dialyzed patient could be due to the combination of several factors, including life parameters, the positive perception of psychosocial outcomes, and the perceived quality of life. A multidisciplinary team (neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and nurses) is essential to plan effective psychological and psychotherapeutic interventions to improve a mind-body integration.
Fujii, Tsukasa; Ogino, Satoshi; Arimoto, Hiroe; Irifune, Morihiro; Iwata, Nobuko; Ookawachi, Ichiro; Kikumori, Hiroshi; Seo, Ritsu; Takeda, Mariko; Tamaki, Akiko; Baba, Kenji; Nose, Michihiro
2006-10-01
The number of patients with Japanese cedar pollinosis (JCP) is increasing, and now, has extended up to about 15% of the Japanese. It is reported that the QOL is an important outcome in the JCP treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the QOL in patients with JCP by means of the SF-8 Health Survey (Japanese Version), a new, even shorter generic health survey. 411 patients with JCP who visited 10 ENT clinics in Osaka from March 14 to March 26 (peak pollen season) were questioned, and 204 patients without any treatments in this season were engaged in this study as subjects. In this study, the QOL scores were evaluated using the SF-8. This is an 8-item version of the SF-36 that yields a comparable 8-dimension health profile and comparable estimates of summary scores for the physical and mental components of health. The QOL score depressed in the patients with JCP compared with healthy subjects (Japanese national norms). Both Mental Component Score (MCS) and Physical Component Score (PCS) scores decreased more in females than in males. In females, MCS were significantly lower than national norms. The older the patients were, the lower PCS scores were showed. The severity of nasal symptoms influenced the PCS scores. These results showed the tendency similar to the early studies using SF-36 questionnaire. The sensitivity of SF-8 in the individual is not better than that of other specific QOL questionnaires, but SF-8 can be answered in a short time compared with other questionnaires including SF-36. We suggested that SF-8 become a useful questionnaire in the future.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wei, Linsheng; Xu, Min; Yuan, Dingkun; Zhang, Yafang; Hu, Zhaoji; Tan, Zhihong
2014-10-01
The electron drift velocity, electron energy distribution function (EEDF), density-normalized effective ionization coefficient and density-normalized longitudinal diffusion velocity are calculated in SF6-O2 and SF6-Air mixtures. The experimental results from a pulsed Townsend discharge are plotted for comparison with the numerical results. The reduced field strength varies from 40 Td to 500 Td (1 Townsend=10-17 V·cm2) and the SF6 concentration ranges from 10% to 100%. A Boltzmann equation associated with the two-term spherical harmonic expansion approximation is utilized to gain the swarm parameters in steady-state Townsend. Results show that the accuracy of the Boltzmann solution with a two-term expansion in calculating the electron drift velocity, electron energy distribution function, and density-normalized effective ionization coefficient is acceptable. The effective ionization coefficient presents a distinct relationship with the SF6 content in the mixtures. Moreover, the E/Ncr values in SF6-Air mixtures are higher than those in SF6-O2 mixtures and the calculated value E/Ncr in SF6-O2 and SF6-Air mixtures is lower than the measured value in SF6-N2. Parametric studies conducted on these parameters using the Boltzmann analysis offer substantial insight into the plasma physics, as well as a basis to explore the ozone generation process.
Bost, James E; Williams, Brian A; Bottegal, Matthew T; Dang, Qianyu; Rubio, Doris M
2007-12-01
We evaluated the validity and responsiveness of three instruments: the numeric rating scale (NRS) pain score, the 8-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-8), and the 40-item Quality of Recovery from Anesthesia (QoR) Survey in 154 outpatients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The objective was to provide a robust psychometric basis for outcome survey selection for surgical outpatients undergoing regional anesthesia without general anesthesia. Patients undergoing ACLR with a standardized spinal anesthesia plan were randomized to receive a perineural catheter with either placebo injection-infusion, or injection-infusion with levobupivacaine. Patients completed the NRS, SF-8, and QoR instruments for four postoperative days to evaluate pain, physical function, and mental function. Regarding pain, neither the NRS nor the QoR offered advantages over the SF-8. Regarding physical function, the QoR physical independence composite offered no advantage over the SF-8 physical component summary. The QoR physical comfort composite assessed short-term changes in treatment-related side effects, and thus provided information not covered by the SF-8. Regarding mental function, the SF-8 mental component summary and QoR emotional state composite showed little change over the four days, although the latter measure showed higher responsiveness to change. For ACLR outpatients receiving regional anesthesia, the SF-8 is sufficient to assess postoperative pain and physical function. Adding the QoR physical comfort composite will help assess short-term side effects.
Buttery, A K; Du, Y; Busch, M A; Fuchs, J; Gaertner, B; Knopf, H; Scheidt-Nave, C
2016-12-01
This study examines changes in physical functioning among adults aged 50-79 years in Germany based on data from two German National Health Interview and Examination Surveys conducted in 1997-1999 (GNHIES98) and 2008-2011 (DEGS1). Using cross-sectional data from the two surveys (GNHIES98, n = 2884 and DEGS1, n = 3732), we examined changes in self-reported physical functioning scores (Short Form-36 physical functioning subscale (SF-36 PF)) by sex and age groups (50-64 and 65-79 years). Covariables included educational level, living alone, nine chronic diseases, polypharmacy (≥5 prescribed medicines), body mass index, sports activity, smoking and alcohol consumption. Multimorbidity was defined as ≥2 chronic diseases. Multivariable models were fitted to examine consistency of changes in physical functioning among certain subgroups and to assess changes in mean SF-36 PF scores, adjusting for changes in covariables between surveys. Mean physical functioning increased among adults aged 50-79 years between surveys in unadjusted analyses, but this change was not as marked among men aged 65-79 years who experienced rising obesity (20.6 to 31.5%, p = 0.004) and diabetes (13.0 to 20.0%, p = 0.014). Prevalence of multimorbidity and polypharmacy use increased among men and women aged 65-79 years. In sex and age specific multivariable analyses, changes in physical functioning over time were consistent across subgroups. Gains in physical functioning were explained by improved education, lower body mass index and improved health-related behaviours (smoking, alcohol consumption, sports activity) in women, but less so among men. Physical functioning improved in Germany among adults aged 50-79 years. Improvements in the population 65-79 years were less evident among men than women, despite increases in multimorbidity prevalence among both sexes. Changes in health behaviours over time differed between sexes and help explain variations in physical functioning
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Mosewich, Amber D.; Hadd, Valerie; Crocker, Peter R. E.; Zumbo, Bruno D.
2013-01-01
Quality of life (QoL) is affected by issues specific to illness trajectory and thus, may differ, and potentially take on different meanings, at different stages in the cancer process. A widely used measure of QoL is the SF-36 Health Survey (SF-36; Ware 1993); therefore, support for its appropriateness in a given population is imperative. The…
Salguero, Alfonso; Martínez-García, Raquel; Molinero, Olga; Márquez, Sara
2011-01-01
This study was aimed to investigate in a sample of Spanish elderly whether measures of physical activity are related to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and symptoms of depression in community dwelling and institutionalized elderly. The sample was a cohort of 436 elderly (234 women and 202 men, aged 60-98 years) from the North of Spain. 58% were community-dwellers and 42% were institutionalized in senior residences. Participants completed measures of physical activity (Yale Physical Activity Survey, YPAS), HRQoL (Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey, SF-36) and symptoms of depression (Geriatric Depression Scale, GDS). All SF-36 domains, except role-emotional, were significantly correlated with the YPAS activity dimension summary index. Physical function, role-physical, general health and vitality correlated with total time activity, and correlations were observed between weekly energy expenditure and physical function, role physical, vitality and mental health. Depressive symptom scores correlated significantly with the YPAS activity dimension summary index and the weekly energy expenditure. Scores for various domains of the SF-36 and for depressive symptoms significantly differed among less and more active individuals of the same sex and institutionalization category. Differences generally reached a higher extent in institutionalized subjects in comparison to community dwellers. In conclusion, physical activity was related to different domains of both the physical and mental components of HRQoL and to decreased depressive symptoms. Results emphasize the positive effects of physical activity in both community-dwelling and institutionalized older adults. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Carreon, Leah Y; Djurasovic, Mladen; Dimar, John R; Owens, R Kirk; Crawford, Charles H; Puno, Rolando M; Bratcher, Kelly R; McGraw, Katlyn E; Glassman, Steven D
2016-09-01
OBJECTIVE Studies have shown that anxious or depressed patients may have poorer outcomes after lumbar fusion. These conclusions were drawn from questionnaires specifically designed to measure anxiety and depression. The objective of this study is to determine if responses to the EQ-5D anxiety/depression domain or the items used to calculate the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) Mental Component Summary (MCS) can predict outcomes after lumbar fusion surgery. METHODS Patients enrolled in the National Neurosurgery Quality and Outcomes Database from a single center with 1-year follow-up were identified. The outcomes collected include the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), EQ-5D, SF-36, and the back- and leg-pain numeric rating scales (range 0-10). Linear regression modeling was performed to predict the 1-year ODI scores using the EQ-5D anxiety/depression domain and the 14 items used to calculate SF-36 MCS. RESULTS Complete data were available for 312 (88%) of 353 eligible patients. The mean patient age was 58.5 years, 175 (56%) patients were women, and 52 patients were smokers. After controlling for other factors, the item in the SF-36 that asks "Have you felt downhearted and depressed?" is the strongest predictor of the 1-year ODI score (r(2) = 0.191; p = 0.000) and 1-year EQ-5D score (r(2) = 0.205; p = 0.000). Neither the EQ-5D anxiety/depression domain nor the diagnoses of anxiety or depression were predictors of 1-year outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Patient responses to SF-36 item "Have you felt downhearted and depressed?" account for 20% of the variability of the 1-year ODI and EQ-5D scores and can be used by clinicians to screen for anxiety or depression in patients prior to lumbar fusion surgery. Clinicians may offer psychological support to these patients preoperatively in order to improve treatment outcomes.
Sahin, S; Yalcin, I; Senel, S; Ataseven, H; Uslu, Au; Yildirim, O; Semiz, M
2013-04-01
Familial Mediterranean fever is an auto-inflammatory disorder. Long term complications of the disease include decreased quality of life. The measurement of quality of life in the patients with chronic disease has become an important research topic during the last years. We aimed to evaluate life quality of the FMF patients by SF-36, and examine its relationship with the disease parameters. One hundred voluntary patients (69 female, 31 male) admitted to the rheumatology clinic were included in the study. The control group consisted of 100 healthy individuals. All subjects in the study were asked to complete SF-36 questionnaire. Age of onset of FMF, age at diagnosis, age at the beginning of colchicine therapy, number of attacks per month, family history of FMF and dialysis were inquired of patients with FMF. Disease severity was determined using the FMF severity score. The mean age of the patient group was 31±12 and that of the control group was 29±9. Sixty-nine patients (69%) were female, and 31 patients were male (31%) in both groups. The mean scores of the physical function, physical role function, emotional role function, mental health, and general health parameters of the patients were statistically significantly lower than those of healthy volunteers (p < 0.05). The difference in social function and vitality between two groups was found to be insignificant (p > 0.05). We have shown that FMF had a negative impact on SF-36. FMF reduces quality of life both in physical and mental dimensions.
A New Acceptor (N-type) Polyphenylenevinylene Building Block: SF-PPV-I
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Wang, Yiqing; Fan, Zhen; Taft, Charles; Sun, Sam-Shajing
2002-01-01
A new sulfone derivatized acceptor (n-type) polyphenylenevinylene "SF-PPV" with nano meter sizes and functional terminals has been synthesized and characterized. The SF-PPV-I that contains hydrocarbon alkyl-sulfone moieties has a strong photoluminescence in both solution and in solid thin film states. In dichloromethane, the 5-10 nm sized SF-PPV has a maximum emission at about 530 nm with excitation maximum at about 490 nm. UV-VIS shows a absorption peak onsite at about 500 nm. Optical spectroscopy and electrochemical studies revealed that the SF-PPV-I has an LUMO level at about -3.6 eV (relative to vacuum), and an HOMO level at about -6.1 eV. The average size (length) of SF-PPV-I can be controlled on the nano meter scale via synthetic means. The SF-PPV has the potential in developing polymer based supramolecular opto-electronic semiconductor devices.
da Silva Ribeiro, Nildo Manoel; Ferraz, Daniel Dominguez; Pedreira, Érika; Pinheiro, Ígor; da Silva Pinto, Ana Cláudia; Neto, Mansueto Gomes; Dos Santos, Luan Rafael Aguiar; Pozzato, Michele Gea Guimarães; Pinho, Ricardo Silva; Masruha, Marcelo Rodrigues
2015-08-01
The Nintendo® Wii is a simple and affordable virtual therapy alternative. It may be used at home, and it is a motivating recreational activity that provides continuous feedback. However, studies comparing the use of the Nintendo® Wii to conventional physical therapy are needed. To compare the effect of a rehabilitation treatment using the Nintendo® Wii (NW) with conventional physical therapy (CPT) to improve the sensorimotor function and quality of life for post-stroke hemiparetic patients. The present study applied a randomized, blind, and controlled clinical trial. In total, 30 patients with post-stroke hemiparesis were evaluated. A total of 15 patients were randomly assigned to each group. The SF-36 quality of life and Fugl-Meyer scales were used to evaluate the patients. After treatment, the only variable that differed between the groups was the physical functioning domain of the SF-36 in the group that received conventional physical therapy. A significant difference was observed between both groups before and after treatment in terms of the following Fugl-Meyer scale items: passive movement and pain, motor function of the upper limbs (ULs), and balance. The CPT group also showed a significant difference with regard to their UL and lower limb (LL) coordination. The SF-36 scale analysis revealed a significant difference within both groups with regard to the following domains: physical functioning, role limitation due to physical aspects, vitality, and role limitation due to emotional aspects. The NW group also exhibited a significant difference in the mental health domain. The results indicate that both approaches improved the patients' performance in a similar manner. Virtual rehabilitation using the Nintendo Wii® and CPT both effectively treat post-stroke hemiparetic patients by improving passive movement and pain scores, motor function of the upper limb, balance, physical functioning, vitality, and the physical and emotional aspects of role functioning.
De Venter, Maud; Illegems, Jela; Van Royen, Rita; Moorkens, Greta; Sabbe, Bernard G C; Van Den Eede, Filip
2017-10-01
There is wide consensus that childhood trauma plays an important role in the aetiology of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The current study examines the differential effects of childhood trauma subtypes on fatigue and physical functioning in individuals suffering from CFS. Participants were 155 well-documented adult, predominantly female CFS patients receiving treatment at the outpatient treatment centre for CFS of the Antwerp University Hospital in Belgium. Stepwise regression analyses were conducted with outcomes of the total score of the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS) measuring fatigue and the scores on the physical functioning subscale of the Medical Outcomes Short Form 36 Health Status Survey (SF-36) as the dependent variables, and the scores on the five subscales of the Traumatic Experiences Checklist (TEC) as the independent variables. The patients' fatigue (β=1.38; p=0.025) and physical functioning scores (β=-1.79; p=0.034) were significantly predicted by childhood sexual harassment. There were no significant effects of emotional neglect, emotional abuse, bodily threat, or sexual abuse during childhood. Of the childhood trauma subtypes investigated, sexual harassment emerged as the most important predictor of fatigue and poor physical functioning in the CFS patients assessed. These findings have to be taken into account in further clinical research and in the assessment and treatment of individuals coping with chronic fatigue syndrome. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Assessment of physical activity in chronic kidney disease.
Robinson-Cohen, Cassianne; Littman, Alyson J; Duncan, Glen E; Roshanravan, Baback; Ikizler, T Alp; Himmelfarb, Jonathan; Kestenbaum, Bryan R
2013-03-01
Physical inactivity plays an important role in the development of kidney disease and its complications; however, the validity of standard tools for measuring physical activity (PA) is not well understood. We investigated the performance of several readily available and widely used PA and physical function questionnaires, individually and in combination, against accelerometry among a cohort of chronic kidney disease (CKD) participants. Forty-six participants from the Seattle Kidney Study, an observational cohort study of persons with CKD, completed the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly, Human Activity Profile (HAP), Medical Outcomes Study SF-36 questionnaire, and the Four-week Physical Activity History questionnaires. We simultaneously measured PA using an Actigraph GT3X accelerometer during a 14-day period. We estimated the validity of each instrument by testing its associations with log-transformed accelerometry counts. We used the Akaike information criterion to investigate the performance of combinations of questionnaires. All questionnaire scores were significantly associated with log-transformed accelerometry counts. The HAP correlated best with accelerometry counts (r(2) = 0.32) followed by SF-36 (r(2) = 0.23). Forty-three percent of the variability in accelerometry counts data was explained by a model that combined the HAP, SF-36, and Four-week Physical Activity History questionnaires. A combination of measurement tools can account for a modest component of PA in patients with CKD; however, a substantial proportion of PA is not captured by standard assessments. Copyright © 2013 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved.
2010-01-01
Background Participation in daily physical activity (PA) post-stroke has not previously been investigated as a possible explanatory variable of health-related quality of life (HRQL). The aims were 1) to determine the contribution of daily PA to the HRQL of individuals with chronic stroke and 2) to assess the relationship between the functional ability of these individuals to the amount of daily PA. Methods The amount of daily PA of forty adults with chronic stroke (mean age 66.5 ± 9.6 years) was monitored using two measures. Accelerometers (Actical) were worn on the hip for three consecutive days in conjunction with a self-report questionnaire [the PA Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities (PASIPD)]. The daily physical activity was measured as the mean total accelerometer activity counts/day and the PASIPD scores as the metabolic equivalent (MET) hr/day. HRQL was assessed by the Physical and Mental composite scores of the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 (SF-36) in addition to the functional ability of the participants. Correlation and regression analyses were performed. Results After controlling for the severity of the motor impairment, the amount of daily PA, as assessed by the PASIPD and accelerometers, was found to independently contribute to 10-12% of the variance of the Physical Composite Score of the SF-36. No significant relationship was found between PA and the Mental Composite Score of the SF-36.The functional ability of the participants was found to be correlated to the amount of daily PA (r = 0.33 - 0.67, p < 0.01). Conclusion The results suggest that daily PA is associated with better HRQL (as assessed by the Physical composite score of the SF-36) for people living with stroke. Daily PA should be encouraged to potentially increase HRQL. Accelerometers in conjunction with a self-report questionnaire may provide important measures of PA which can be monitored and modified, and potentially influence HRQL. PMID:20682071
Rand, Debbie; Eng, Janice J; Tang, Pei-Fang; Hung, Chihya; Jeng, Jiann-Shing
2010-08-03
Participation in daily physical activity (PA) post-stroke has not previously been investigated as a possible explanatory variable of health-related quality of life (HRQL). The aims were 1) to determine the contribution of daily PA to the HRQL of individuals with chronic stroke and 2) to assess the relationship between the functional ability of these individuals to the amount of daily PA. The amount of daily PA of forty adults with chronic stroke (mean age 66.5 +/- 9.6 years) was monitored using two measures. Accelerometers (Actical) were worn on the hip for three consecutive days in conjunction with a self-report questionnaire [the PA Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities (PASIPD)]. The daily physical activity was measured as the mean total accelerometer activity counts/day and the PASIPD scores as the metabolic equivalent (MET) hr/day. HRQL was assessed by the Physical and Mental composite scores of the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 (SF-36) in addition to the functional ability of the participants. Correlation and regression analyses were performed. After controlling for the severity of the motor impairment, the amount of daily PA, as assessed by the PASIPD and accelerometers, was found to independently contribute to 10-12% of the variance of the Physical Composite Score of the SF-36. No significant relationship was found between PA and the Mental Composite Score of the SF-36.The functional ability of the participants was found to be correlated to the amount of daily PA (r = 0.33 - 0.67, p < 0.01). The results suggest that daily PA is associated with better HRQL (as assessed by the Physical composite score of the SF-36) for people living with stroke. Daily PA should be encouraged to potentially increase HRQL. Accelerometers in conjunction with a self-report questionnaire may provide important measures of PA which can be monitored and modified, and potentially influence HRQL.
Is the standard SF-12 health survey valid and equivalent for a Chinese population?
Lam, Cindy L K; Tse, Eileen Y Y; Gandek, Barbara
2005-03-01
Chinese is the world's largest ethnic group but few health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures have been tested on them. The aim of this study was to determine if the standard SF-12 was valid and equivalent for a Chinese population. The SF-36 data of 2410 Chinese adults randomly selected from the general population of Hong Kong (HK) were analysed. The Chinese (HK) specific SF-12 items and scoring algorithm were derived from the HK Chinese population data by multiple regressions. The SF-36 PCS and MCS scores were used as criteria to assess the content and criterion validity of the SF-12. The standard and Chinese (HK) specific SF-12 PCS and MCS scores were compared for equivalence. The standard SF-12 explained 82% and 89% of the variance of the SF-36 PCS and MCS scores, respectively, and the effect size differences between the standard SF-36 and SF-12 scores were less than 0.3. Six of the Chinese (HK) specific SF-12 items were different from those of the standard SF-12, but the effect size differences between the Chinese (HK) specific and standard SF-12 scores were mostly less than 0.3. The standard SF-12 was valid and equivalent for the Chinese, which would enable more Chinese to be included in clinical trials that measure HRQoL.
Rääsk, Triin; Mäestu, Jarek; Lätt, Evelin; Jürimäe, Jaak; Jürimäe, Toivo; Vainik, Uku; Konstabel, Kenn
2017-01-01
Self-report measures of physical activity (PA) are easy to use and popular but their reliability is often questioned. Therefore, the general aim of the present study was to investigate the association of PA questionnaires with accelerometer derived PA, in a sample of adolescent boys. In total, 191 pubertal boys (mean age 14.0 years) completed three self-report questionnaires and wore an accelerometer (ActiGraph GT1M) for 7 consecutive days. The PA questionnaires were: International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), Tartu Physical Activity Questionnaire (TPAQ), and the Inactivity subscale from Domain-Specific Impulsivity (DSI) scale. All three questionnaires were significantly correlated with accelerometer derived MVPA: the correlations were 0.31 for the IPAQ-SF MVPA, 0.34 for the TPAQ MVPA and -0.29 for the DSI Inactivity scale. Nevertheless, none of the questionnaires can be used as a reliable individual-level estimate of MVPA in male adolescents. The boys underreported their MVPA in IPAQ-SF as compared to accelerometer-derived MVPA (respective averages 43 and 56 minutes); underreporting was more marked in active boys with average daily MVPA at least 60 minutes, and was not significant in less active boys. Conversely, MVPA index from TPAQ overestimated the MVPA in less active boys but underestimated it in more active boys. The sedentary time reported in IPAQ-SF was an underestimate as compared to accelerometer-derived sedentary time (averages 519 and 545 minutes, respectively).
Functional Ankle Instability and Health-Related Quality of Life
Arnold, Brent L.; Wright, Cynthia J.; Ross, Scott E.
2011-01-01
Context: To our knowledge, no authors have assessed health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) in participants with functional ankle instability (FAI). Furthermore, the relationships between measures of ankle functional limitation and HR-QOL are unknown. Objective: To use the Short Form–36v2 Health Survey (SF-36) to compare HR-QOL in participants with or without FAI and to determine whether HR-QOL was related to functional limitation. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Sports medicine research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Sixty-eight participants with FAI (defined as at least 1 lateral ankle sprain and 1 episode of giveway per month) or without FAI were recruited (FAI group: n = 34, age = 25 ± 5 years, height = 1.71 ± 0.08 m, mass = 74.39 ± 12.78 kg, Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool score = 19.3 ± 4; uninjured [UI] group: n = 34, age = 23 ± 4 years, height = 1.69 ± 0.08 m, mass = 67.94 ± 11.27 kg, Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool score = 29.4 ± 1). Main Outcome Measure(s): All participants completed the SF-36 as a measure of HR-QOL and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and the FAAM Sport version (FAAMS) as assessments of functional limitation. To compare the FAI and UI groups, we calculated multiple analyses of variance followed by univariate tests. Additionally, we correlated the SF-36 summary component scale and domain scales with the FAAM and FAAMS scores. Results: Participants with FAI had lower scores on the SF-36 physical component summary (FAI = 54.4 ± 5.1, UI = 57.8 ± 3.7, P = .005), physical function domain scale (FAI = 54.5 ± 3.8, UI = 56.6 ± 1.2, P = .004), and bodily pain domain scale (FAI = 52.0 ± 6.7, UI = 58.5 ± 5.3, P < .005). Similarly, participants with FAI had lower scores on the FAAM (FAI = 93.7 ± 8.4, UI = 99.5 ± 1.4, P < .005) and FAAMS (FAI = 84.5 ± 8.4, UI = 99.8 ± 0.72, P < .005) than did the UI group. The FAAM score was correlated with the physical component summary scale (r = 0.42, P = .001
2012-01-01
Background Economic viability of treatments for primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) should be assessed objectively to prioritise health care interventions. This study aims to identify the methods for eliciting utility values (UVs) most sensitive to differences in visual field and visual functioning in patients with POAG. As a secondary objective, the dimensions of generic health-related and vision-related quality of life most affected by progressive vision loss will be identified. Methods A total of 132 POAG patients were recruited. Three sets of utility values (EuroQoL EQ-5D, Short Form SF-6D, Time Trade Off) and a measure of perceived visual functioning from the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) were elicited during face-to-face interviews. The sensitivity of UVs to differences in the binocular visual field, visual acuity and visual functioning measures was analysed using non-parametric statistical methods. Results Median utilities were similar across Integrated Visual Field score quartiles for EQ-5D (P = 0.08) whereas SF-6D and Time-Trade-Off UVs significantly decreased (p = 0.01 and p = 0.001, respectively). The VFQ-25 score varied across Integrated Visual Field and binocular visual acuity groups and was associated with all three UVs (P ≤ 0.001); most of its vision-specific sub-scales were associated with the vision markers. The most affected dimension was driving. A relationship with vision markers was found for the physical component of SF-36 and not for any dimension of EQ-5D. Conclusions The Time-Trade-Off was more sensitive than EQ-5D and SF-6D to changes in vision and visual functioning associated with glaucoma progression but could not measure quality of life changes in the mildest disease stages. PMID:22909264
2013-01-01
Background Underwater divers are more likely to complain of musculoskeletal symptoms than a control population. Accordingly, we conducted a study to determine whether musculoskeletal symptoms reflected observable physical disorder, to ascertain the relationship between symptoms and measures of mood, memory and executive function and to assess any need for future screening. Methods A 10% random sample of responders to a prior postal health questionnaire was examined (151 divers, 120 non-diving offshore workers). Participants underwent physical examination and a neuropsychological test battery for memory and executive function. Participants also completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for anxiety (HADSa) and depression (HADSd), and questionnaires for physical health-related quality of life (SF36 PCS), mental health-related quality of life (SF36 MCS), memory (Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ), Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire (PRMQ)), executive function (dysexecutive syndrome questionnaire (DEX)), musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) and general unrelated symptom reporting. Results Of participants with moderate/severe musculoskeletal symptoms, 52% had physical signs, and of participants with no symptoms, 73% had no physical signs. There was no difference in the prevalence of signs or symptoms between groups. Musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with lower SF36 PCS for both groups. In divers, musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with higher general unrelated symptom reporting and poorer scoring for HADSa, PRMQ, CFQ and DEX with scores remaining within the normative range. A positive physical examination was associated with general unrelated symptom reporting in divers. There were no differences in neuropsychological test scores attributable to either group or musculoskeletal symptoms. Conclusions Musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with physical signs, but this was not a strong effect. Reporting of musculoskeletal symptoms by
Kaleth, Anthony S; Slaven, James E; Ang, Dennis C
2014-12-01
To examine the concurrent and predictive associations between the number of steps taken per day and clinical outcomes in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). A total of 199 adults with FM (mean age 46.1 years, 95% women) who were enrolled in a randomized clinical trial wore a hip-mounted accelerometer for 1 week and completed self-report measures of physical function (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire-Physical Impairment [FIQ-PI], Short Form 36 [SF-36] health survey physical component score [PCS], pain intensity and interference (Brief Pain Inventory [BPI]), and depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-8 [PHQ-8]) as part of their baseline and followup assessments. Associations of steps per day with self-report clinical measures were evaluated from baseline to week 12 using multivariate regression models adjusted for demographic and baseline covariates. Study participants were primarily sedentary, averaging 4,019 ± 1,530 steps per day. Our findings demonstrate a linear relationship between the change in steps per day and improvement in health outcomes for FM. Incremental increases on the order of 1,000 steps per day were significantly associated with (and predictive of) improvements in FIQ-PI, SF-36 PCS, BPI pain interference, and PHQ-8 (all P < 0.05). Although higher step counts were associated with lower FIQ and BPI pain intensity scores, these were not statistically significant. Step count is an easily obtained and understood objective measure of daily physical activity. An exercise prescription that includes recommendations to gradually accumulate at least 5,000 additional steps per day may result in clinically significant improvements in outcomes relevant to patients with FM. Future studies are needed to elucidate the dose-response relationship between steps per day and patient outcomes in FM. Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Rheumatology.
Tierney, M; Fraser, A; Kennedy, N
2015-06-01
The International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF) is a self-report questionnaire commonly used in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to measure physical activity. However, despite its frequent use in patients with RA, its validity has not been ascertained in this population. The aim of this study was to examine the criterion validity of energy expenditure from physical activity recorded with the IPAQ-SF in patients with RA compared with the objective criterion measure, the SenseWear Armband (SWA) which has been validated previously in this population. Cross-sectional criterion validation study. Regional hospital outpatient setting. Twenty-two patients with RA attending outpatient rheumatology clinics. Subjects wore an SWA for 7 full consecutive days and completed the IPAQ-SF. Energy expenditure from physical activity recorded by the SWA and the IPAQ-SF. Energy expenditure from physical activity recorded by the IPAQ-SF and the SWA showed a small, non-significant correlation (r=0.407, P=0.60). The IPAQ-SF underestimated energy expenditure from physical activity by 41% compared with the SWA. This was corroborated using Bland and Altman plots, as the IPAQ-SF was found to overestimate energy expenditure from physical activity in nine of the 22 individuals, and underestimate energy expenditure from physical activity in the remaining 13 individuals. The IPAQ-SF has limited use as an accurate and absolute measure for estimating energy expenditure from physical activity in patients with RA. Copyright © 2014 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Svärd, Anna; Lahti, Jouni; Roos, Eira; Rahkonen, Ossi; Lahelma, Eero; Lallukka, Tea; Mänty, Minna
2017-09-26
Studies suggest an association between weight change and subsequent poor physical health functioning, whereas the association with mental health functioning is inconsistent. We aimed to examine whether obesity and change of body mass index among normal weight, overweight and obese women and men associate with changes in physical and mental health functioning. The Helsinki Health Study cohort includes Finnish municipal employees aged 40 to 60 in 2000-02 (phase 1, response rate 67%). Phase 2 mail survey (response rate 82%) took place in 2007 and phase 3 in 2012 (response rate 76%). This study included 5668 participants (82% women). Seven weight change categories were formed based on body mass index (BMI) (phase 1) and weight change (BMI change ≥5%) (phase 1-2). The Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) measured physical and mental health functioning. The change in health functioning (phase 1-3) score was examined with repeated measures analyses. Covariates were age, sociodemographic factors, health behaviours, and somatic ill-health. Weight gain was common among women (34%) and men (25%). Weight-gaining normal weight (-1.3 points), overweight (-1.3 points) and obese (-3.6 points) women showed a greater decline in physical component summary scores than weight-maintaining normal weight women. Among weight-maintainers, only obese (-1.8 points) women showed a greater decline than weight-maintaining normal weight women. The associations were similar, but statistically non-significant for obese men. No statistically significant differences in the change in mental health functioning occurred. Preventing weight gain likely helps maintaining good physical health functioning and work ability.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Jordan-Marsh, Maryalice; Cody, Michael; Silverstein, Merril; Chin, Soo-Young; Garcia, Ruth
2008-01-01
Objective: Approved versions of the SF-36 Version 1.0 are used for limited-English-speaking individuals whose primary languages are Korean, Chinese, and Spanish to test the respective translations for use among immigrants to the United States. Method: Surveys are completed by an older adult and a nominated adult family caregiver (N = 132).…
Neuland, Claudia; Bitter, Thomas; Marschner, Heike; Gudziol, Hilmar; Guntinas-Lichius, Orlando
2011-04-01
To measure health-related and olfaction-related quality of life (QoL) in patients with permanent, severe hyposmia or functional anosmia. A case study in a university ENT department of patients with severe olfactory dysfunction defined by Sniffin' Sticks olfactory test kit with a score for odor threshold, discrimination, and identification (TDI) < 20 and a dysfunction lasting longer than 6 months. Assessment of QoL by using the SF-36 Health Survey questionnaire and the Questionnaire for Olfactory Dysfunction (QOD). A total of 958 patients were tested for smell disturbances from 1999 to 2009. Surveys were mailed to 527 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria; 280 (53%) returned completed surveys. All SF-36 domains in severely hyposmic and anosmic patients were lower than in the German normal population. Lower SF-36 QoL was found for some domains in female patients, older patients, and hyposmic patients (P < .05 for all groups). Based on the QOD, women showed more parosmia, and anosmic patients had more olfactory-related impairment (P < .05 for both); in general, higher olfactory impairment and higher parosmia score measured by QOD correlated with lower TDI values (all P < .05). Multivariate analysis revealed, for SF-36 domains, the following independent risk factors: female sex was a risk factor for bodily pain; higher age was a risk factor for physical functioning and role, bodily pain, and general health; hyposmia was a risk factor for bodily pain and mental health; QOD QoL was a risk factor for all SF-36 scales; and QOD parosmia was a risk factor for physical role (all P < .05). QoL is severely impaired in patients with chronic severe hyposmia or anosmia. The QOD allows a more olfaction-specific assessment of QoL than the SF-36 instrument. Copyright © 2011 The American Laryngological, Rhinological, and Otological Society, Inc.
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Lederer, S. M.; Domingue, D. L.; Vilas, F.; Abe, M.; Farnham, T. L.; Jarvis, K. S.; Lowry, S. C.; Ohba, Y.; Weissman, P. R.; French, L. M.
2004-01-01
Several spacecraft missions have recently targeted asteroids to study their morphologies and physical properties (e.g. Galileo, NEAR Shoemaker), and more are planned. MUSES-C is a Japanese mission designed to rendezvous with a near-Earth asteroid (NEA). The MUSES-C spacecraft, Hayabusa, was launched successfully in May 2003. It will rendezvous with its target asteroid in 2005, and return samples to the Earth in 2007. Its target, 25143 Itokawa (1998 SF36), made a close approach to the Earth in 2001. We collected an extensive ground-based database of broadband photometry obtained during this time, which maximized the phase angle coverage, to characterize this target in preparation for the mission. Our project was designed to capitalize on the broadband UBVRI photometric observations taken with a series of telescopes, instrumentation, and observers. Photometry and spectrophotometry of Itokawa were acquired at Lowell, McDonald, Steward, Palomar, Table Mountain and Kiso Observatories. The photometric data sets were combined to calculate Hapke model parameters of the surface material of Itokawa, and examine the solar-corrected broadband color characteristics of the asteroid. Broadband photometry of an object can be used to: (1) determine its colors and thereby contribute to the understanding of its surface composition and taxonomic class, and (2) infer global physical surface properties of the target body. We present both colors from UBVRI observations of the MUSES-C target Itokawa, and physical properties derived by applying a Hapke model to the broadband BVRI photometry.
Fu, Yuejun; Wang, Ruisheng; Liang, Aihua
2018-06-01
The baculovirus Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) possesses a gene, ac-pcna or ac49, which encodes a protein with similarity to proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Homologs of this gene code for DNA polymerase processivity factors and are essential in the DNA replication systems. But the function of ac-pcna still remains unclear. To define the function of Ac-pcna in AcMNPV and Sf-pcna in host Sf9 cells, Bac-to-Bac baculovirus expression system was used to generate two recombinant baculoviruses: AcMNPV-Ac-pcna-EGFP and AcMNPV-Sf-pcna-EGFP. Results indicated that AcMNPV-mediated overexpression of Ac-PCNA and Sf-PCNA could stimulate replication of AcMNPV genome in the host Sf9 cells. Meanwhile, either AcMNPV-Ac-pcna-EGFP or AcMNPV-Sf-pcna-EGFP had a significant stimulating effect on Sf9 genome replication during infection. We also found that Ac-PCNA and Sf-PCNA could promote the production of budded virus. Ac-PCNA could improve the transcription level of ie2 gene dramatically and further improved the transcription of late gene, for example 38 K and vp39, at 12 h p.i.. Moreover, insecticidal potency test showed that the larvae of Beet armyworm in the AcMNPV-Ac-pcna-EGFP and AcMNPV-Sf-pcna-EGFP groups had a higher mortality rate (83.33 and 91.67%), a lower pupation rate (16.67 and 8.33%), and a lower emergence rate (6.67 and 3.33%), compared with those in AcMNPV-EGFP group. The function of Ac-PCNA and Sf-PCNA was confirmed in this study, which provided the theoretical foundation for using and modifying AcMNPV.
Effects of an adapted physical activity program on psychophysical health in elderly women.
Battaglia, Giuseppe; Bellafiore, Marianna; Alesi, Marianna; Paoli, Antonio; Bianco, Antonino; Palma, Antonio
2016-01-01
Several studies have shown the positive effects of adapted physical activity (APA) on physical and mental health (MH) during the lifetime. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a specific APA intervention program in the improvement of the health-related quality of life (QOL) and functional condition of spine in elderly women. Thirty women were recruited from a senior center and randomly assigned to two groups: control group (CG; age: 69.69±7.94 years, height: 1.57±0.06 m, weight: 68.42±8.18 kg, body mass index [BMI]: 27.88±2.81) and trained group (TG; age: 68.35±6.04 years, height: 1.55±0.05 m, weight: 64.78±10.16 kg, BMI: 26.98±3.07). The APA program was conducted for 8 weeks, with two training sessions/week. CG did not perform any physical activity during the study. Spinal angles were evaluated by SpinalMouse(®) (Idiag, Volkerswill, Switzerland); health-related QOL was evaluated by SF-36 Health Survey, which assesses physical component summary (PCS-36), mental component summary (MCS-36), and eight subscales: physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health perception, role-emotional, social functioning, vitality, and MH. All measures were recorded before and after the experimental period. In TG, compared to CG, the two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures with Bonferroni post hoc test showed a relevant improvement in lumbar spinal angle (°) and in SF-36 outcomes after the intervention period. We showed a significant increase in physical functioning, bodily pain, and MH subscales and in PCS-36 and MCS-36 scores in TG compared to CG. In particular, from baseline to posttest, we found that in TG, the PCS-36 and MCS-36 scores increased by 13.20% and 11.64%, respectively. We believe that an 8-week APA intervention program is able to improve psychophysical heath in elderly people. During the aging process, a dynamic lifestyle, including regular physical activity, is a crucial factor for public and health care
Assessment of Physical Activity in Chronic Kidney Disease
Robinson-Cohen, Cassianne; Littman, Alyson J; Duncan, Glen E; Roshanravan, Baback; Ikizler, T. Alp; Himmelfarb, Jonathan; Kestenbaum, Bryan R
2012-01-01
Background Physical activity (PA) plays important roles in the development of kidney disease and its complications; however, the validity of standard tools for measuring PA is not well understood. Study Design We investigated the performance of several readily-available and widely-used PA and physical function questionnaires, individually and in combination, against accelerometry among a cohort of CKD participants. Setting and Participants Forty-six participants from the Seattle Kidney Study, an observational cohort study of persons with CKD, completed the PA Scale for the Elderly, Human Activity Profile (HAP), Medical Outcomes Study SF-36 questionnaire, and the Four Week PA History Questionnaire (FWH). We simultaneously measured PA using an Actigraph GT3X accelerometer over a 14-day period. We estimated the validity of each instrument by testing its associations with log-transformed accelerometry counts. We used the Akaike information criterion to investigate the performance of combinations of questionnaires. Results All questionnaire scores were significantly associated with log-transformed accelerometry counts. The HAP correlated best with accelerometry counts (r2=0.32) followed by the SF-36 (r2=0.23). Forty-three percent of the variability in accelerometry counts data was explained by a model that combined the HAP, SF-36 and FWH. Conclusion A combination of measurement tools can account for a modest component of PA in patients with CKD; however, a substantial proportion of physical activity is not captured by standard assessments. PMID:22739659
Walters, Stephen J
2004-05-25
We describe and compare four different methods for estimating sample size and power, when the primary outcome of the study is a Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) measure. These methods are: 1. assuming a Normal distribution and comparing two means; 2. using a non-parametric method; 3. Whitehead's method based on the proportional odds model; 4. the bootstrap. We illustrate the various methods, using data from the SF-36. For simplicity this paper deals with studies designed to compare the effectiveness (or superiority) of a new treatment compared to a standard treatment at a single point in time. The results show that if the HRQoL outcome has a limited number of discrete values (< 7) and/or the expected proportion of cases at the boundaries is high (scoring 0 or 100), then we would recommend using Whitehead's method (Method 3). Alternatively, if the HRQoL outcome has a large number of distinct values and the proportion at the boundaries is low, then we would recommend using Method 1. If a pilot or historical dataset is readily available (to estimate the shape of the distribution) then bootstrap simulation (Method 4) based on this data will provide a more accurate and reliable sample size estimate than conventional methods (Methods 1, 2, or 3). In the absence of a reliable pilot set, bootstrapping is not appropriate and conventional methods of sample size estimation or simulation will need to be used. Fortunately, with the increasing use of HRQoL outcomes in research, historical datasets are becoming more readily available. Strictly speaking, our results and conclusions only apply to the SF-36 outcome measure. Further empirical work is required to see whether these results hold true for other HRQoL outcomes. However, the SF-36 has many features in common with other HRQoL outcomes: multi-dimensional, ordinal or discrete response categories with upper and lower bounds, and skewed distributions, so therefore, we believe these results and conclusions using the SF-36
A Portuguese value set for the SF-6D.
Ferreira, Lara N; Ferreira, Pedro L; Pereira, Luis N; Brazier, John; Rowen, Donna
2010-08-01
The SF-6D is a preference-based measure of health derived from the SF-36 that can be used for cost-effectiveness analysis using cost-per-quality adjusted life-year analysis. This study seeks to estimate a system weight for the SF-6D for Portugal and to compare the results with the UK system weights. A sample of 55 health states defined by the SF-6D has been valued by a representative random sample of the Portuguese population, stratified by sex and age (n = 140), using the Standard Gamble (SG). Several models are estimated at both the individual and aggregate levels for predicting health-state valuations. Models with main effects, with interaction effects and with the constant forced to unity are presented. Random effects (RE) models are estimated using generalized least squares (GLS) regressions. Generalized estimation equations (GEE) are used to estimate RE models with the constant forced to unity. Estimations at the individual level were performed using 630 health-state valuations. Alternative functional forms are considered to account for the skewed distribution of health-state valuations. The models are analyzed in terms of their coefficients, overall fit, and the ability for predicting the SG-values. The RE models estimated using GLS and through GEE produce significant coefficients, which are robust across model specification. However, there are concerns regarding some inconsistent estimates, and so parsimonious consistent models were estimated. There is evidence of under prediction in some states assigned to poor health. The results are consistent with the UK results. The models estimated provide preference-based quality of life weights for the Portuguese population when health status data have been collected using the SF-36. Although the sample was randomly drowned findings should be treated with caution, given the small sample size, even knowing that they have been estimated at the individual level.
Arranz, Laura; Canela, Miguel Angel; Rafecas, Magda
2012-11-01
Patients suffering from fibromyalgia (FM) had widespread musculoskeletal pain and stiffness, fatigue, sleep disorders, cognitive impairment and other symptoms, which seriously affects their quality of life (QoL), making it difficult to perform normal activities. Moreover, FM has been associated with a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity than in the general population. Weight reduction has been beneficial in both FM and other rheumatic patients. Obesity and overweight have been pointed as playing a relevant role in FM symptoms; however, it is necessary to find out more about this relationship. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between body mass index (BMI), fat mass (fM) and lean mass (lM) with quality of life in a group of FM patients. 103 women, with a mean age of 53.74 ± 7.81, and members of different FM patient associations from Spain participated in our study. Some anthropometric measures were taken like weight, height, BMI, body fat mass and lean mass. FM patients QoL was assessed by the Short-Form Health Survey, SF-36 questionnaire. Statistical reports were based on mean, standard deviation and correlation, but significance was tested by nonparametric methods. BMI, fM and lM correlated differently with the specific SF-36 scores. BMI had a high negative correlation with emotional role, fM with bodily pain and lM almost with all scores but specially with emotional role, vitality and physical role. The outcome of this study reveals some interesting relationships, which need to be further investigated to improve the management of FM patients.
Rossi, Gina; Debast, Inge; van Alphen, S P J
2017-07-01
The dimensional personality disorders model in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)-5 section III conceptually differentiates impaired personality functioning (criterion A) from the presence of pathological traits (criterion B). This study is the first to specifically address the measurement of criterion A in older adults. Moreover, the convergent/divergent validity of criterion A and criterion B will be compared in younger and older age groups. The Severity Indices of Personality Functioning - Short Form (SIPP-SF) was administered in older (N = 171) and younger adults (N = 210). The factorial structure was analyzed with exploratory structural equation modeling. Differences in convergent/divergent validity between personality functioning (SIPP-SF) and pathological traits (Personality Inventory for DSM-5; Dimensional Assessment of Personality Pathology-Basic Questionnaire) were examined across age groups. Identity Integration, Relational Capacities, Responsibility, Self-Control, and Social Concordance were corroborated as higher order domains. Although the SIPP-SF domains measured unique variation, some high correlations with pathological traits referred to overlapping constructs. Moreover, in older adults, personality functioning was more strongly related to Psychoticism, Disinhibition, Antagonism and Dissocial Behavior compared to younger adults. The SIPP-SF construct validity was demonstrated in terms of a structure of five higher order domains of personality functioning. The instrument is promising as a possible measure of impaired personality functioning in older adults. As such, it is a useful clinical tool to follow up effects of therapy on levels of personality functioning. Moreover, traits were associated with different degrees of personality functioning across age groups.
Wassel, Christina L; Allison, Matthew A; Ix, Joachim H; Rifkin, Dena E; Forbang, Nketi I; Denenberg, Julie O; Criqui, Michael H
2016-09-01
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects millions of people, both in the U.S. and worldwide. Even when asymptomatic, PAD and the ankle-brachial index (ABI), the major clinical diagnostic criterion for PAD, are associated with decreased functional status and quality of life, as well as mobility impairment. Whether the ABI or change in the ABI predicts decline in functional status over time has not been previously assessed in a population-based setting. Participants were 812 non-Hispanic white, African American, Hispanic, and Asian men and women from the San Diego Population Study (SDPS) who attended a baseline examination (1994-1998), and follow-up clinic examination approximately 11 years later. The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form (SF-36) was obtained at both the baseline and follow-up examinations, and the summary performance score (SPS) at the follow-up examination. Associations of the baseline ABI and clinically relevant change in the ABI (<-0.15 vs ≥-0.15) with change in SF-36 scores over time were assessed using growth curve models, a type of mixed model that accounts for within participant correlation of measurements over time, and using linear regression for SPS. Models were adjusted for baseline age, sex, race/ethnicity, body mass index, ever smoking, physical activity, hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) for the baseline ABI was 1.11 ± 0.10, and 50.8 ± 9.0 for the baseline Physical Component Score (PCS), 50.1 ± 9.5 for the baseline Mental Component Score (MCS), and 11.2 ± 1.9 for the SPS at the follow-up examination. In fully adjusted models, each SD lower of the baseline ABI was significantly associated with an average decrease over time of 0.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], -1.1 to -0.1; P = .02) units on SF-36 PCS. Each SD lower of the baseline ABI was also significantly associated with an average decrease over time of 1.2 units (95% CI, -2.3 to -0.2; P = .02) on the SF-36 physical
Kristofferzon, Marja-Leena; Ternesten-Hasséus, Ewa
2013-10-29
Sensory hyperreactivity (SHR) is one explanation for airway symptoms induced by chemicals and scents. Little is known about health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and coping, in this group of patients. A study was done in patients with SHR to (1) compare the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) and the Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) in regard to their suitability, validity, reliability, and acceptability; (2) evaluate how the patients cope with the illness; (3) assess whether there are differences between women and men with respect to HRQOL and coping; and (4) assess whether there are differences between patients and normative data with respect to HRQOL and coping. A total of 115 patients (91 women) with SHR were asked to answer five questionnaires: a study-specific questionnaire, the Chemical Sensitivity Scale for Sensory Hyperreactivity (CSS-SHR), the NHP, the SF-36, and the Jalowiec Coping Scale-60. Eighty-three patients (72%; 70 women) completed all questionnaires. The SF-36 scores were less skewed and more homogeneously distributed and showed fewer floor and ceiling effects than the NHP scores. The SF-36 was also discriminated better between patients with high and low CSS-SHR scores. The reliability standard for both questionnaires was satisfactory. There were no gender differences in HRQOL. Patients with SHR had significantly lower HRQOL scores than the normative data in comparable domains of the NHP and the SF-36: emotional reactions/mental health, energy/vitality, physical mobility/functioning, and pain/bodily pain. In social isolation/functioning, the results were different; the NHP scores were similar to the normative data and the SF-36 scores were lower. The most commonly used coping styles were optimistic, self-reliant, and confrontational. Women used optimistic coping more than men. Compared with the normative group, patients with SHR used confrontational and optimistic coping more and emotive coping less. The current findings showed that both the NHP
Influence of condensed species on thermo-physical properties of LTE and non-LTE SF6-Cu mixture
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chen, Zhexin; Wu, Yi; Yang, Fei; Sun, Hao; Rong, Mingzhe; Wang, Chunlin
2017-10-01
SF6-Cu mixture is frequently formed in high-voltage circuit breakers due to the electrode erosion and metal vapor diffusion. During the interruption process, the multiphase effect and deviation from local thermal equilibrium (non-LTE assumption) can both affect the thermo-physical of the arc plasma and further influence the performance of circuit breaker. In this paper, thermo-physical properties, namely composition, thermodynamic properties and transport coefficients are calculated for multiphase SF6-Cu mixture with and without LTE assumption. The composition is confirmed by combining classical two-temperature mass action law with phase equilibrium condition deduced from second law of thermodynamics. The thermodynamic properties and transport coefficients are calculated using the multiphase composition result. The influence of condensed species on thermo-physical properties is discussed at different temperature, pressure (0.1-10 atm), non-equilibrium degrees (1-10), and copper molar proportions (0-50%). It is found that the multiphase effect has significant influence on specific enthalpy, specific heat and heavy species thermal conductivity in both LTE and non-LTE SF6-Cu system. This paper provides a more accurate database for computational fluid dynamic calculation.
Sahin, Nilay; Atik, Aziz; Dogan, Erdal
2014-01-01
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical and demographic characteristics and functional status of the patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). METHODS: Ninety-four patients with the diagnosis of FMS were included in the study. All patients were evaluated with short form 36 for quality of life (SF-36), pain, depression, benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS), myofacial pain syndrome (MPS), and demogrophic characteristics. End-point measurements were SF-36 for quality of life, visual analogue scale, Beck Depression Index, anamnesis, and physical examination. RESULTS: The majority of the patients were women who were suffering from generalised pain with a median age of 40.4. Mostly depression and sleep disorders were accompanying the syndrome. Physical examination revealed MPS and BJHS in most of the patients. CONCLUSION: BJHS and MPS must also be investigated in patients with the diagnosis of FMS. PMID:28058309
Wee, H-L; Wu, Y; Thumboo, J; Lee, J; Tai, E S
2010-06-01
To investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and physical and mental health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a multiethnic Asian population in Singapore, and explore whether there were gender and ethnic differences in this association. We conducted cross-sectional analyses using data from 5027 Chinese, Malay and Indian participants (2403 men and 2624 women) aged 24-95 years. These subjects were from four previous cross-sectional surveys carried out in Singapore (from 1982 to 1998) who attended a follow-up examination (including both a questionnaire and a clinic examination) between 2004 and 2007, during which HRQoL was assessed. Participants were classified as underweight (<18.5 kg m(-2)), normal weight (18.5 to <23 kg m(-2)), overweight (23 to <25 kg m(-2)), moderate obese (25 to <30 kg m(-2)) and severe obese (>or=30 kg m(-2)). HRQoL was measured using the Short-Form 36-item questionnaire (SF-36) physical component summary score (PCS) and mental component summary score (MCS). Linear regressions with and without adjusting for other covariates were used to evaluate the association between BMI and SF-36 PCS and MCS. Compared with participants with normal weight, moderate or severe obesity was associated with 0.8 points (95% confidence interval (CI): -1.5 to -0.1, P=0.03) and 2.1 points lower PCS (95% CI: -3.1 to -0.1, P<0.001), respectively, after adjustment for sociodemographic variables, family functioning measure scores and the presence of chronic diseases. These associations were greater in women than in men. In contrast, being underweight was associated with 1.3 points lower MCS (95% CI: -2.3 to -0.3, P=0.014). In this study (one of few studies in the Asia-Pacific region), obesity was associated with lower PCS and the effect was modified by gender but not ethnicity, such that the association was greater in women than in men. However, obesity was not associated with MCS. Underweight was associated with reduced MCS but not PCS.
Marchese, Victoria G; Spearing, Elena; Callaway, Lulie; Rai, Shesh N; Zhang, Lijun; Hinds, Pamela S; Carlson, Claire A; Neel, Michael D; Rao, Bhaskar N; Ginsberg, Jill
2006-01-01
The study was designed to examine relationships between range of motion (ROM), functional mobility, and quality of life (QL) in patients with lower-extremity sarcoma (LES) after limb-sparing surgery Sixty-eight patients with LES (age, 10-26 years) participated. The patients performed hip flexion, hip extension, knee flexion, and knee extension, Timed Up and Down Stairs (TUDS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), nine-minute run-walk (9-min), and completed the QL measure, Short-Form-36 version two (SF-36v2). Significant correlations (p < 0.01) were found between hip extension and SF-36v2 physical component scale (PCS; r = 0.33), TUDS (r = -0.32), TUG (r = -0.33); hip flexion and TUDS (r = -0.31), TUG (r = -0.39), 9-min (r = 0.44); knee flexion and TUDS (r = -0.52), TUG (r = -0.40), 9-min (r = 0.37); SF-36v2 PCS and TUDS (r = -0.56), TUG (r = -0.51), 9-min (r = 0.60). ROM correlates with functional mobility and QL in patients with LES after limb-sparing surgery. ROM exercises are important component of a physical therapy program for children and adolescents with LES.
Ginsberg, Jill P; Rai, Shesh N; Carlson, Claire A; Meadows, Anna T; Hinds, Pamela S; Spearing, Elena M; Zhang, Lijun; Callaway, Lulie; Neel, Michael D; Rao, Bhaskar N; Marchese, Victoria G
2007-12-01
Comparison of functional mobility and quality of life is performed in patients with lower-extremity bone sarcoma following either amputation, limb-sparing surgery, or rotationplasty with four different types of outcome measures: (1) an objective functional mobility measure that requires patients to physically perform specific tasks, functional mobility assessment (FMA); (2) a clinician administered tool, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Scale (MSTS); (3) a patient questionnaire, Toronto Extremity Salvage Scale (TESS); and (4) a health-related quality of life (HRQL) measure, Short Form-36 version 2 (SF-36v.2). This is a prospective multi-site study including 91 patients with lower-extremity bone sarcoma following amputation, limb-sparing surgery, or rotationplasty. One of three physical therapists administered the quality of life measure (SF-36v.2) as well as a battery of functional measures (FMA, MSTS, and TESS). Differences between patients who had amputation, limb-sparing surgery, or rotationplasty were consistently demonstrated by the FMA. Patients with limb sparing femur surgery performed better than those patients with an above the knee amputation but similarly to a small number of rotationplasty patients. Several of the more conventional self-report measures were shown to not have the discriminative capabilities of the FMA in these cohorts. In adolescents with lower-extremity bone sarcoma, it may be advantageous to consider the use of a combination of outcome measures, including the FMA, for objective functional mobility assessment along with the TESS for a subjective measure of disability and the SF-36v.2 for a quality-of-life measure. 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc
Eyigor, Sibel; Karapolat, Hale; Durmaz, Berrin; Ibisoglu, Ugur; Cakir, Serap
2009-01-01
The present study has been carried out to investigate the effects of group-based Turkish folkloric dances on physical performance, balance, depression and quality of life (QoL) in 40 healthy adult elderly females over the age of 65 years. Subjects were randomly allocated into Group 1 (folkloric dance-based exercise) and Group 2 (control). A 8-week dance-based exercise program was performed. Outcome measures included a 20-m walk test, a 6-min walk test, stair climbing and chair rise time, Berg balance scale (BBS), the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) 36-item short form health survey (SF-36), and geriatric depression scale (GDS) questionnaires. In Group 1 statistically significant improvements were found in most of the physical performance tests, BBS and some SF-36 subscales after the exercise (p<0.05). In the Group 2 there was no clinically significant change in the variables. Comparing the groups, significant improvements in favor of Group 1 have emerged in most of the functional performance tests, in some of the SF-36 subscales and BBS score (p<0.05). We achieved improvements in physical performance, balance and QoL in elderly females. Application of folkloric dance specific to countries as an exercise program for elderly people may be helpful.
Enthalpies of melting of LnSF compounds (Ln = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Andreev, P. O.; Mikhalkina, O. G.; Andreev, O. V.; Elyshev, A. V.
2015-05-01
The melting temperatures and enthalpies of such congruently melting compounds as LaSF ( T m = 1713 ± 7 K, Δ H = 45.7 ± 4.6 kJ/mol), CeSF ( T m = 1683 ± 7 K, Δ H = 40.7 ± 4.1 kJ/mol), PrSF ( T m = 1661 ± 7 K, Δ H = 39.7 ± 4.0 kJ/mol), NdSF ( T m = 1654 ± 7 K, Δ H = 40.2 ± 4.0 kJ/mol), and SmSF ( T m = 1587 ± 7 K, Δ H = 36.1 ± 3.6 kJ/mol) are determined via synchronous thermal analysis. The tetrad effect is evident in the change of the melting temperatures and enthalpies of LnSF compounds (Ln = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm) depending on r(Ln3+).
Lahti, Jouni; Sabia, Séverine; Singh-Manoux, Archana; Kivimäki, Mika; Tatsuse, Takashi; Yamada, Masaaki; Sekine, Michikazu; Lallukka, Tea
2016-01-06
The aim of this study was to examine whether leisure time physical activity contributes to subsequent physical and mental health functioning among midlife employees. The associations were tested in three occupational cohorts from Finland, Britain and Japan. Cohort study. Finland, Britain and Japan. Prospective employee cohorts from the Finnish Helsinki Health Study (2000-2002 and 2007, n=5958), British Whitehall II study (1997-1999 and 2003-2004, n=4142) and Japanese Civil Servants Study (1998-1999 and 2003, n=1768) were used. Leisure time physical activity was classified into three groups: inactive, moderately active and vigorously active. Mean scores of physical and mental health functioning (SF-36) at follow-up were examined. Physical activity was associated with better subsequent physical health functioning in all three cohorts, however, with varying magnitude and some gender differences. Differences were the clearest among Finnish women (inactive: 46.0, vigorously active: 49.5) and men (inactive: 47.8, active vigorous: 51.1) and British women (inactive: 47.3, active vigorous: 50.4). In mental health functioning, the differences were generally smaller and not that clearly related to the intensity of physical activity. Emerging differences in health functioning were relatively small. Vigorous physical activity was associated with better subsequent physical health functioning in all three cohorts with varying magnitude. For mental health functioning, the intensity of physical activity was less important. Promoting leisure time physical activity may prove useful for the maintenance of health functioning among midlife employees. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/
Ruiz-Casado, A; Alejo, L B; Santos-Lozano, A; Soria, A; Ortega, M J; Pagola, I; Fiuza-Luces, C; Palomo, I; Garatachea, N; Cebolla, H; Lucia, A
2016-11-01
Regular physical activity (PA) decreases mortality risk in survivors of breast and colorectal cancer. Such impacts of exercise have prompted initiatives designed both to promote and adequately monitor PA in cancer survivors. This study examines the validity of 2 widely used self-report methods for PA determination, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short version (IPAQ-SF) and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). Both instruments were compared with the triaxial accelerometry (Actigraph) method as an objective reference standard. Study participants were 204 cancer survivors (both sexes, aged 18-79 years). Compared with accelerometry, both questionnaires significantly overestimated PA levels (across all intensities) and underestimated physical inactivity levels. No differences were detected between the 2 questionnaires except for a shorter inactivity time estimated by GPAQ ( p =0.001). The Bland and Altman method confirmed that both questionnaires overestimated all PA levels. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis classified IPAQ and GPAQ as fair and poor predictors, respectively, of the proportions of survivors fulfilling international PA recommendations (≥150 min·week -1 of moderate-vigorous PA). IPAQ-SF showed a higher sensitivity but lower specificity than GPAQ. Our data do not support the use of IPAQ-SF or GPAQ to determine PA or inactivity levels in cancer survivors. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.
Busse, Jason W.; Bhandari, Mohit; Guyatt, Gordon H.; Heels-Ansdell, Diane; Kulkarni, Abhaya V.; Mandel, Scott; Sanders, David; Schemitsch, Emil; Swiontkowski, Marc; Tornetta, Paul; Wai, Eugene; Walter, Stephen D.
2011-01-01
Objective To explore the role of patients’ beliefs in their likelihood of recovery from severe physical trauma. Methods We developed and validated an instrument designed to capture the impact of patients’ beliefs on functional recovery from injury; the Somatic Pre-occupation and Coping (SPOC) questionnaire. At 6-weeks post-surgical fixation, we administered the SPOC questionnaire to 359 consecutive patients with operatively managed tibial shaft fractures. We constructed multivariable regression models to explore the association between SPOC scores and functional outcome at 1-year, as measured by return to work and short form-36 (SF-36) physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores. Results In our adjusted multivariable regression models that included pre-injury SF-36 scores, SPOC scores at 6-weeks post-surgery accounted for 18% of the variation in SF-36 PCS scores and 18% of SF-36 MCS scores at 1-year. In both models, 6-week SPOC scores were a far more powerful predictor of functional recovery than age, gender, fracture type, smoking status, or the presence of multi-trauma. Our adjusted analysis found that for each 14 point increment in SPOC score at 6-weeks (14 chosen on the basis of half a standard deviation of the mean SPOC score) the odds of returning to work at 1-year decreased by 40% (odds ratio = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.50 to 0.73). Conclusion The SPOC questionnaire is a valid measurement of illness beliefs in tibial fracture patients and is highly predictive of their long-term functional recovery. Future research should explore if these results extend to other trauma populations and if modification of unhelpful illness beliefs is feasible and would result in improved functional outcomes. PMID:22011635
48 CFR 36.504 - Physical data.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR
2014-10-01
... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Physical data. 36.504... CONTRACTING CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS Contract Clauses 36.504 Physical data. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.236-4, Physical Data, in solicitations and contracts when a...
48 CFR 36.504 - Physical data.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-10-01
... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Physical data. 36.504... CONTRACTING CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS Contract Clauses 36.504 Physical data. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.236-4, Physical Data, in solicitations and contracts when a...
48 CFR 36.504 - Physical data.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR
2011-10-01
... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Physical data. 36.504... CONTRACTING CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS Contract Clauses 36.504 Physical data. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.236-4, Physical Data, in solicitations and contracts when a...
48 CFR 36.504 - Physical data.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR
2013-10-01
... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Physical data. 36.504... CONTRACTING CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS Contract Clauses 36.504 Physical data. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.236-4, Physical Data, in solicitations and contracts when a...
48 CFR 36.504 - Physical data.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR
2012-10-01
... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Physical data. 36.504... CONTRACTING CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS Contract Clauses 36.504 Physical data. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.236-4, Physical Data, in solicitations and contracts when a...
Latorre, Pedro Ángel; Santos, María Aparecida; Heredia-Jiménez, Jose Maria; Delgado-Fernández, Manuel; Soto, Víctor Manuel; Mañas, Alfonso; Carbonell-Baeza, Ana
2013-01-01
To analyse the effect of a 24-week physical training programme in water and on land on women with fibromyalgia. A controlled study was conducted from December 2009 to May 2010. Seventy-two women with fibromyalgia (age: 51.79±7.87 years) were assigned to an exercise group (3 sessions/week, 2 sessions in water, 1 session on land) (n=42) and to a control group (n=30). The variables analysed were: number of tender points, visual analogue scale (VAS) of pain, algometer score, functional capacity (leg strength, hand-grip dynamometry, flexibility, agility, balance, aerobic endurance, heart response), body composition (body mass index, fat mass index, skeletal muscle mass index and percentage of body fat) and psychological variables (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire [FIQ] and Short Form Health Survey 36 [SF-36]). The exercise group improved in the algometer score (p<0.001), positive tender points (p=0.005), VAS (p<0.001) and FIQ (p<0.001). Improvements were also detected in functional capacity (leg strength, p=0.001; hand-grip dynamometry, p=0.001; flexibility, p<0.001; balance, p=0.006; 6-minute walk test, p<0.001; mean heart rate, p=0.031; maximum heart rate, p<0.001 and VO2 max, p<0.001). There was a decrease in the percentage of body fat (p=0.040). There was also an improvement in the subscales of the SF-36; vitality (p=0.004), mental health (p=0.001) social role functioning (p=0.020) and general health functioning (p=0.002). The findings of this study show that a 24-week physical training programme (3 sessions/week, of which 2 sessions are in water and 1 session is on land) reduces pain and disease impact and improves functional capacity in women with fibromyalgia.
KIRIHARA, RICARDO AKIHIRO; CATELAN, FELLIPE BRAVIM; FARIAS, FABIANE ELIZE SABINO DE; SILVA, CLEIDNÉIA APARECIDA CLEMENTE DA; CERNIGOY, CLAUDIA HELENA DE AZEVEDO; REZENDE, MÁRCIA UCHOA DE
2017-01-01
ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effects of physical activity intensity, type and duration in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods: A retrospective study of 195 KOA patients who were followed for two years after receiving educational material about KOA with or without attending classes. The patients were evaluated at baseline and 24 months. At the evaluations, the patients answered questionnaires pertaining to pain and function (WOMAC, Lequesne, VAS and SF-36); reported the intensity, duration and type of exercise performed per week; and performed the Timed Up & Go (TUG) and Five Times Sit-to-Stand (FTSST) tests. Results: Increased age affected improvements in the TUG results (p=0.017). The type, intensity and duration of physical activity did not correlate with pain, function or quality of life improvements (p>0.05), but the TUG results were on average 4 seconds faster among the patients who practiced intense physical activity and/or exercised for more than 180 minutes per week and/or performed isolated weight training or swam compared with those who remained sedentary after 2 years (p=0.01; p<0.001; p=0.01; p=0.04, respectively). Conclusions: Patients with KOA should aim for intense physical activity and/or more than 180 minutes of exercise per week and/or weight training (bodybuilding) for relevant pain reduction and functional improvement.Level of Evidence II, Retrospective Study. PMID:28642646
Long-term assessment of the physical, mental, and sexual health among transsexual women.
Weyers, Steven; Elaut, Els; De Sutter, Petra; Gerris, Jan; T'Sjoen, Guy; Heylens, Gunter; De Cuypere, Griet; Verstraelen, Hans
2009-03-01
Transsexualism is the most extreme form of gender identity disorder and most transsexuals eventually pursue sex reassignment surgery (SRS). In transsexual women, this comprises removal of the male reproductive organs, creation of a neovagina and clitoris, and often implantation of breast prostheses. Studies have shown good sexual satisfaction after transition. However, long-term follow-up data on physical, mental and sexual functioning are lacking. To gather information on physical, mental, and sexual well-being, health-promoting behavior and satisfaction with gender-related body features of transsexual women who had undergone SRS. Fifty transsexual women who had undergone SRS >or=6 months earlier were recruited. Self-reported physical and mental health using the Dutch version of the Short-Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey; sexual functioning using the Dutch version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Satisfaction with gender-related bodily features as well as with perceived female appearance; importance of sex, relationship quality, necessity and advisability of gynecological exams, as well as health concerns and feelings of regret concerning transition were scored. Compared with reference populations, transsexual women scored good on physical and mental level (SF-36). Gender-related bodily features were shown to be of high value. Appreciation of their appearance as perceived by others, as well as their own satisfaction with their self-image as women obtained a good score (8 and 9, respectively). However, sexual functioning as assessed through FSFI was suboptimal when compared with biological women, especially the sublevels concerning arousal, lubrication, and pain. Superior scores concerning sexual function were obtained in those transsexual women who were in a relationship and in heterosexuals. Transsexual women function well on a physical, emotional, psychological and social level. With respect to sexuality, they suffer from specific difficulties
Jadczak, A D; Mahajan, N; Visvanathan, R
2017-01-01
Geriatric assessment tools are applicable to the general geriatric population; however, their feasibility in frail older adults is yet to be determined. The study aimed to determine the feasibility of standardised geriatric assessment tools and physical exercises in hospitalised frail older adults. Various assessment tools including the FRAIL Screen, the Charlson Comorbidity Index, the SF-36, the Trail Making Test (TMT), the Rapid Cognitive Screen, the Self Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA-SF) and the Lawton iADL as well as standard physical exercises were assessed using observational protocols. The FRAIL Screen, MNA-SF, Rapid Cognitive Screen, Lawton iADL and the physical exercises were deemed to be feasible with only minor comprehension, execution and safety issues. The TMT was not considered to be feasible and the SF-36 should be replaced by its shorter form, the SF-12. In order to ensure the validity of these findings a study with a larger sample size should be undertaken.
Clarke, Clare L; Sniehotta, Falko F; Vadiveloo, Thenmalar; Argo, Ishbel S; Donnan, Peter T; McMurdo, Marion E T; Witham, Miles D
2017-08-14
Cross-sectional relationships between physical activity and health have been explored extensively, but less is known about how physical activity changes with time in older people. The aim of this study was to assess baseline predictors of how objectively measured physical activity changes with time in older people. Longitudinal cohort study using data from the Physical Activity Cohort Scotland. A sample of community-dwelling older people aged 65 and over were recruited in 2009-2011, then followed up 2-3 years later. Physical activity was measured using Stayhealthy RT3 accelerometers over 7 days. Other data collected included baseline comorbidity, health-related quality of life (SF-36), extended Theory of Planned Behaviour Questionnaire and Social Capital Module of the General Household Survey. Associations between follow-up accelerometer counts and baseline predictors were analysed using a series of linear regression models, adjusting for baseline activity levels and follow-up time. Follow up data were available for 339 of the original 584 participants. The mean age was 77 years, 185 (55%) were female and mean follow up time was 26 months. Mean activity counts fell by between 2% per year (age < =80, deprivation decile 5-10) and 12% per year (age > 80, deprivation decile 5-10) from baseline values. In univariate analysis age, sex, deprivation decile, most SF-36 domains, most measures of social connectedness, most measures from the extended Theory of Planned Behaviour, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic pain and depression score were significantly associated with adjusted activity counts at follow-up. In multivariate regression age, satisfactory friend network, SF-36 physical function score, and the presence of diabetes mellitus were independent predictors of activity counts at follow up after adjustment for baseline count and duration of follow up. Health status and social connectedness, but not extended Theory of Planned Behaviour measures
Sekine, Michikazu; Chandola, Tarani; Martikainen, Pekka; Marmot, Michael; Kagamimori, Sadanobu
2006-07-01
Poor physical and mental functioning is more common among people of low socioeconomic status (SES) and those with disadvantaged work and family characteristics. This study aims to clarify whether the SES inequalities in functioning can be explained by the SES differences in work and family characteristics. The subjects were 3787 male and female civil servants, aged 20-65, working in a local government on the west coast of Japan. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine (1) whether there were employment-grade (SES) differences in poor physical and mental functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) and (2) whether these SES differences were explained by work and family characteristics. In general, low control at work, high demands, low social support, short and long work hours, shift work, being unmarried, high family-to-work conflict and high work-to-family conflict were independently associated with poor physical and mental functioning in both men and women. In men, the age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of low-grade employees for poor physical functioning was 1.93 (95% confidence interval: 1.38-2.69) in comparison to high-grade employees. The grade difference was mildly attenuated, when adjusted for work and family characteristics (OR = 1.72)(1.20-2.47). The age-adjusted OR of the low-grade employees for poor mental functioning was 1.88 (1.29-2.74). The grade difference was attenuated and no longer significant when adjusted for work and family characteristics (OR = 1.51)(0.99-2.31). Among women, there were no significant grade-differences in poor physical and mental functioning. Although longitudinal research is necessary to clarify the causal nature of these associations, improvements in SES differences in work and family characteristics may be important for reducing SES inequalities in physical and mental functioning among Japanese men. The different patterns of SES inequalities in health between men and women deserve further research.
McDowell, Kathryn; O'Neill, Brenda; Blackwood, Bronagh; Clarke, Chris; Gardner, Evie; Johnston, Paul; Kelly, Michaeline; McCaffrey, John; Mullan, Brian; Murphy, Sally; Trinder, T John; Lavery, Gavin; McAuley, Daniel F; Bradley, Judy M
2017-07-01
To investigate the effectiveness of a 6-week exercise programme in patients discharged home following critical illness compared with standard care. Multicentre prospective phase II randomised controlled trial, with blinded outcome assessment after hospital discharge, following the 6-week intervention and at 6 months. 60 patients (30 per group) aged ≥18 years, mechanically ventilated >96 hours, and not in other rehabilitation, that is, cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation programmes. Participants in the intervention group completed an individually tailored (personalised) exercise programme. Primary outcome measure was SF-36 physical functioning following the intervention. Secondary outcomes included a range of performance-based and patient-reported measures. Improvements in the primary outcome did not differ significantly between groups (mean difference (95% CI) 3.0 (-2.2 to 8.2), p=0.26). The intervention group showed significant improvement compared with the control group (mean difference (95% CI)) in SF-36 role physical (6.6 (0.73 to 12.5), p=0.03); incremental shuttle walk test (83.1 m (8.3 to 157.9), p=0.03); functional limitations profile (-4.8 (-8.7 to -0.9), p=0.02); self-efficacy to exercise (2.2 (0.8 to 3.7), p=0.01) and readiness to exercise (1.3 (0.8 to 1.9), p<0.001). These improvements were not sustained at 6 months except readiness to exercise. Improvements in all other secondary outcome measures were not significant. There was no statistically significant difference in the primary outcome measure of self-reported physical function following this 6-week exercise programme. Secondary outcome results will help inform future studies. NCT01463579. (results), https://clinicaltrials.gov/. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.
2011-01-01
Background Objectively assessed physical performance is a strong predictor for morbidity and premature death and there is an increasing interest in the role of sarcopenia in many chronic diseases. There is a need for robust and valid functional tests in clinical practice. Therefore, the repeatability and validity of a newly developed maximal step up test (MST) was assessed. Methods The MST, assessing maximal step-up height (MSH) in 3-cm increments, was evaluated in 60 healthy middle-aged subjects, 30 women and 30 men. The repeatability of MSH and the correlation between MSH and isokinetic knee extension peak torque (IKEPT), self-reported physical function (SF-36, PF), patient demographics and self-reported physical activity were investigated. Results The repeatability between occasions and between testers was 6 cm. MSH (range 12-45 cm) was significantly correlated to IKEPT, (r = 0.68, P < 0.001), SF-36 PF score, (r = 0.29, P = 0.03), sex, age, weight and BMI. The results also show that MSH above 32 cm discriminates subjects in our study with no limitation in self-reported physical function. Conclusions The standardised MST is considered a reliable leg function test for clinical practice. The MSH was related to knee extension strength and self-reported physical function. The precision of the MST for identification of limitations in physical function needs further investigation. PMID:21854575
Abd El-Kader, Shehab M; Al-Jiffri, Osama H
2016-12-01
Alzheimer's disease has a destructive drawbacks on the patient and his/her entire family as this disease badly af fects the behavior, cognition and abilities to do activities of daily living (ADL). The physical and mental benefits of exercise are widely known but seldom available to persons suffering from Alzheimer's disease. The aim of this study was to measure quality of life, systemic inflammation and psychological well-being response to aerobic exercises in Alzheimer's. Forty Alzheimer elderly subjects were enrolled in two groups; the first group received treadmill aerobic exercise, while the second group was considered as a control group and received no training intervention for two months. Assessment of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES),Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Profile of Mood States(POMS) and SF-36 health quality of life (SF-36 HRQL) were taken before and at the end of the study. There was a 25.2%, 19.4%, 23.5%, 21.3%, 17.7% , 11.7%, 12.5% and 10.1 % reduction in mean values of TNF-α, IL-6, BDI, POMS, health transition SF-36 subscale, bodily pain SF-36 subscale, role functioning: emotional SF-36 subscale and mental health SF-36 subscale respectively in addition to 15.7%, 13.1%, 12.6%, 11.1%, 13.2% and 11.2 % increase in mean values of RSES, physical functioning SF-36 subscale, role functioning:physical SF-36 subscale, general health SF-36 subscale, Vitality SF-36 subscale and Social functioning SF-36 subscale respectively in group (A) received aerobic exercise training, so that there was a significant reduction in the mean values of TNF-α, IL-6, BDI & POMS and increase in the mean values of SF-36 HRQL subscale scores, RSES in group (A) as a result of aerobic exercise training, while the results of group (B) who received no training intervention were not significant. Also, there were significant differences between mean levels of the investigated parameters in group (A) and group (B) at
Formal Physical Therapy After Total Hip Arthroplasty Is Not Required: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Austin, Matthew S; Urbani, Brian T; Fleischman, Andrew N; Fernando, Navin D; Purtill, James J; Hozack, William J; Parvizi, Javad; Rothman, Richard H
2017-04-19
The value of formal physical therapy after total hip arthroplasty is unknown. With substantial changes that have occurred in surgical and anesthesia techniques, self-directed therapy may be efficacious in restoring function to patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. We conducted a single-center, randomized trial of 120 patients undergoing primary, unilateral total hip arthroplasty who were eligible for direct home discharge. The experimental group followed a self-directed home exercise program for 10 weeks. The control group received the standard protocol for physical therapy that included in-home visits with a physical therapist for the first 2 weeks followed by formal outpatient physical therapy for 8 weeks. Functional outcomes were measured using validated instruments including the Harris hip score (HHS), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) preoperatively, at 1 month postoperatively, and at 6 to 12 months postoperatively. Of 120 randomized patients, 108 were included in the final analysis. Ten patients (19%) were randomized to unsupervised home exercise and 20 patients (37%) were randomized to formal outpatient therapy crossed over between groups. There was no significant difference in any of the measured functional outcomes between patients receiving formal therapy (n = 54) and those participating in unsupervised home exercise (n = 54) at any time point (HHS, p = 0.82; WOMAC, p = 0.80; and SF-36 physical health, p = 0.90). This randomized trial suggests that unsupervised home exercise is both safe and efficacious for a majority of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty, and formal physical therapy may not be required. Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Lee, M-S; Chen, R C-Y; Chang, Y-H; Huang, Y-C; Wahlqvist, M L
2012-01-01
To examine the significance of underweight and physical function as well as their interaction on mortality in the aged. Prospective cohort. The Elderly Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan during 1999-2000. Total of 1435 representative free-living elders (739 men and 696 women). Body composition was assessed by various anthropometrics. Physical function score (PF, ranged 0-100) was derived from the SF-36(®). Death by December 31, 2006 was the outcome measure. After 7.9 (median: 7.0) years follow-up, 381 (223 men, 158 women) of 1435 eligible participants had died. Those with the lowest PF (<45) had 3.43 (hazards ratio (HR), 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.20-5.36) times the all-cause mortality risk of the highest PF (≥58). Interactions for PF and BMI (P =0.02) and for PF and wrist circumference (P =0.09) on death were found after controlling for potential confounders. Jointly, compared to normal-BMI-highest-PF, the greatest HR for death occurred where BMI <18.5 kg/m2 was combined with the lowest-PF after covariate adjustments (HR = 8.67, 95% CI = 3.77-20.0). Similarly, the lowest arm muscle circumference (MAMC)-PF had a HR of 5.22 compared to mid-MAMC-highest-PF. However, percent and absolute body fat, estimated by bioelectrical impedance, was comparable to non-sarcopenic individuals. Thin elderly Taiwanese with sarcopenia, and less skeleton, are at the most risk of death, especially if physical function is limited.
Jung, Kyoung-Sim; Jung, Jin-Hwa; In, Tae-Sung; Cho, Hwi-Young
2016-09-01
[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to establish the reliability and validity of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire, which was translated into Korean, for patients with musculoskeletal disorder. [Subjects and Methods] Fifty-five subjects (26 males and 29 females) with musculoskeletal diseases participated in the study. The Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire focuses on a limited range of physical functions and includes a dysfunction index and a bother index. Reliability was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient, and validity was examined by correlating short musculoskeletal function assessment scores with the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) score. [Results] The reliability was 0.97 for the dysfunction index and 0.94 for the bother index. Validity was established by comparison with Korean version of the SF-36. [Conclusion] This study demonstrated that the Korean version of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire is a reliable and valid instrument for the assessment of musculoskeletal disorders.
Kim, Chul-Hyun; Luedtke, Connie A; Vincent, Ann; Thompson, Jeffrey M; Oh, Terry H
2012-07-01
The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between baseline body mass index (BMI) and treatment outcome after a brief interdisciplinary fibromyalgia treatment program. Subjects (n = 477) with fibromyalgia participated in the fibromyalgia treatment program. They completed the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and the Short Form-36 Health Status Questionnaire (SF-36) at baseline and 6 to 12 mos after the fibromyalgia treatment program. Posttreatment changes in FIQ and SF-36 scores were compared after stratifying participants into four BMI groups: nonobese, overweight, moderately obese, and severely obese. All BMI groups achieved significant improvement in the FIQ total score; the FIQ subscales feel good, pain, fatigue, and morning tiredness; and the SF-36 subscales pain index, vitality, social functioning, and mental health index. Posttreatment changes in mean scores for each subscale generally did not differ significantly across BMI groups after adjusting for age and baseline scores. However, the SF-36 subscale scores of physical functioning and role-emotional were significantly less improved in the severely obese compared with the nonobese. Baseline BMI did not affect response to the fibromyalgia treatment program, as measured by the FIQ total score or SF-36 physical and mental component summary scores. However, the severely obese group showed less improvement compared with the nonobese group in the SF-36 physical functioning and role-emotional subscales.
Boehm, Amnon; Eisenberg, Elon; Lampel, Shirly
2011-01-01
The study aimed to determine the degree to which social capital (a combination of social resources that can be beneficial to a person's physical health and well-being), personal coping strategies, and additional personal and disease-related factors, contribute to the functioning and quality of life (QoL) of fibromyalgia (FM) patients. In the assessment of their functioning and QoL, 175 Israeli FM patients completed the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) (dependent variables). In addition, they completed a modified Social Capital Questionnaires (which tests 3 subtypes of social capital: bonding, bridging, and linking), COPE-Multidimensional Coping Inventory (measures the use of problem vs. emotional-focused coping strategies), and a personal demographic questionnaire (independent variables). A multivariate regression analysis was used to assess the relative contribution of each independent variable to functioning and QoL of these patients. The regression analysis showed that: (1) Bonding social capital and particularly the friend-connections component of bonding social capital contributed to the FIQ score and to the SF-36 parameters of social function, mental health, and bodily pain. (2) Problem-focused coping strategy contributed to the mental health parameter of the SF-36, whereas emotional-focused coping strategy contributed negatively to the FIQ score and to the mental health, general health, and bodily pain parameters of the SF-36. (3) In addition, duration of FM symptoms contributed to the SF-36 parameters of general health, social function, mental health, and bodily pain but not to the FIQ score; whereas, work status contributed significantly to the variance of FIQ. Bonding social capital, problem-solving coping strategies, and the duration of FM contribute positively to functioning and QoL of FM patients; whereas, emotional-focused coping strategies do the opposite. Further research to test the effects of
Catquest-9SF questionnaire: validation of Malay and Chinese-language versions using Rasch analysis.
Adnan, Tassha Hilda; Mohamed Apandi, Mokhlisoh; Kamaruddin, Haireen; Salowi, Mohamad Aziz; Law, Kian Boon; Haniff, Jamaiyah; Goh, Pik Pin
2018-01-05
Catquest questionnaire was originally developed in Swedish to measure patients' self-assessed visual function to evaluate the benefit of cataract surgery. The result of the Rasch analysis leading to the creation of the nine-item short form of Catquest, (Catquest-9SF), and it had been translated and validated in English. The aim is therefore to evaluate the translated Catquest-9SF questionnaire in Malay and Chinese (Mandarin) language version for measuring patient-reported visual function among cataract population in Malaysia. The English version of Catquest-9SF questionnaire was translated and back translated into Malay and Chinese languages. The Malay and Chinese translated versions were self-administered by 236 and 202 pre-operative patients drawn from a cataract surgery waiting list, respectively. The translated Catquest-9SF data and its four response options were assessed for fit to the Rasch model. The Catquest-9SF performed well in the Malay and Chinese translated versions fulfilling all criteria for valid measurement, as demonstrated by Rasch analysis. Both versions of questionnaire had ordered response thresholds, with a good person separation (Malay 2.84; and Chinese 2.59) and patient separation reliability (Malay 0.89; Chinese 0.87). Targeting was 0.30 and -0.11 logits in Malay and Chinese versions respectively, indicating that the item difficulty was well suited to the visual abilities of the patients. All items fit a single overall construct (Malay infit range 0.85-1.26, outfit range 0.73-1.13; Chinese infit range 0.80-1.51, outfit range 0.71-1.36), unidimensional by principal components analysis, and was free of Differential Item Functioning (DIF). These results support the good overall functioning of the Catquest-9SF in patients with cataract. The translated questionnaire to Malay and Chinese-language versions are reliable and valid in measuring visual disability outcomes in the Malaysian cataract population.
Konzelmann, M; Burrus, C; Hilfiker, R; Rivier, G; Deriaz, O; Luthi, F
2015-03-01
Functional evaluation of upper limb is not only based on clinical findings but requires self-administered questionnaires to address patients' perspective. The Hand Function Sort (HFS©) was only validated in English. The aim of this study was the French cross cultural adaptation and validation of the HFS© (HFS-F). 150 patients with various upper limbs impairments were recruited in a rehabilitation center. Translation and cross-cultural adaptation were made according to international guidelines. Construct validity was estimated through correlations with Disabilities Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, SF-36 mental component summary (MCS),SF-36 physical component summary (PCS) and pain intensity. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach's α and test-retest reliability by intraclass correlation. Cronbach's α was 0.98, test-retest reliability was excellent at 0.921 (95 % CI 0.871-0.971) same as original HFS©. Correlations with DASH were-0.779 (95 % CI -0.847 to -0.685); with SF 36 PCS 0.452 (95 % CI 0.276-0.599); with pain -0.247 (95 % CI -0.429 to -0.041); with SF 36 MCS 0.242 (95 % CI 0.042-0.422). There were no floor or ceiling effects. The HFS-F has the same good psychometric properties as the original HFS© (internal consistency, test retest reliability, convergent validity with DASH, divergent validity with SF-36 MCS, and no floor or ceiling effects). The convergent validity with SF-36 PCS was poor; we found no correlation with pain. The HFS-F could be used with confidence in a population of working patients. Other studies are necessary to study its psychometric properties in other populations.
Bogan, Richard K; Black, Jed; Swick, Todd; Mamelak, Mortimer; Kovacevic-Ristanovic, Ruzica; Villa, Kathleen F; Mori, Fannie; Montplaisir, Jacques
2017-12-01
Narcolepsy patients report lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) than the general population, as measured by the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36). This analysis evaluated whether changes in SF-36 correlated with physician-rated Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGI-C). Data were from 209 of 228 narcolepsy patients participating in an 8-week clinical trial of sodium oxybate. Changes from baseline for SF-36 subscales (Physical Functioning, Role Physical, Bodily Pain, General Health, Vitality, Social Functioning, Role Emotional, and Mental Health) and the summary scores were evaluated for correlation with CGI-C overall and by treatment group. Correlations were calculated using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient (r). Correlations described an inverse relationship in scores, but a direct relationship in improvement; lower CGI-C scores (i.e., better) were associated with higher SF-36 subscale scores (i.e., improved HRQoL). Moderate and significant correlations were observed for Vitality (r = -0.464; P < 0.0001) and Role Physical (r = -0.310; P < 0.0001) subscales, but weak correlations were observed with other subscales including summary scores. Correlations were stronger at higher sodium oxybate doses for most SF-36 subscales. Some aspects of HRQoL, measured by the SF-36, may be associated with narcolepsy. In particular, Vitality (indicative of energy and tiredness) and Role Physical (impact of physical function on daily roles) moderately correlated with overall change in status observed by clinicians. However, lack of strong correlations between SF-36 and CGI-C indicates differences in patient and clinician perspectives of disease, and suggest a need for broader assessment of the impact of narcolepsy and its treatment on patients. Jazz Pharmaceuticals.
Mulasso, Anna; Roppolo, Mattia; Rabaglietti, Emanuela
2014-01-01
The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between individual characteristics and HRQOL, and to identify which components of physical frailty measured according to Fried's criteria provided a better explanation of HRQOL. Two hundred and fifty-nine older adults (age 74±6 years; 69% were women) living in Piemonte Region were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Socio-demographic and medical characteristics were captured by self-reported questionnaires. Physical frailty was assessed using the five criteria of Fried: shrinking, weakness, poor endurance and energy, slowness, and low physical activity level. HRQOL was measured with the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), using both the mental (MCS) and the Physical Component Summary (PCS). Among individual characteristics, gender was the best predictor for SF-36, the MCS, and the PCS, with values of R(2) of 12.7%, 12.1%, and 8.8%, respectively. Among the five Fried's criteria, poor endurance and energy had the largest effect on HRQOL with values of ΔR(2) of 13.9% for SF-36, 13.4% for the MCS, and 9.4% for the PCS. Results highlighted the role of the individual characteristics and the single weight of the five components of physical frailty on HRQOL. This knowledge may give new insights about the relations between individual functioning and self-rated health, allowing the development of individualized and more effective preventive interventions for a healthy aging. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Povsic, Thomas J; Sloane, Richard; Pieper, Carl F; Pearson, Megan P; Peterson, Eric D; Cohen, Harvey J; Morey, Miriam C
2016-03-01
Levels of circulating progenitor cells (CPCs) are depleted with aging and chronic injury and are associated with level of physical functioning; however, little is known about the correlation of CPCs with longer-term measures of physical capabilities. We sought to determine the association of CPCs with future levels of physical function and with changes in physical function over time. CPCs were measured in 117 participants with impaired glucose tolerance in the Enhanced Fitness clinical trial based on the cell surface markers CD34 and CD133 and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity at baseline, 3 months, and 12 months. Physical function was assessed using usual and rapid gait speed, 6-minute walk distance, chair stand time, and SF-36 physical functioning score and reassessed at 3 and 12 months after clinical intervention. Higher baseline levels of CD133(+), CD34(+), CD133(+)CD34(+), and ALDH(br) were each highly predictive of faster gait speed and longer distance walked in 6 minutes at both 3 and 12 months. These associations remained robust after adjustment for age, body mass index, baseline covariates, and inflammation and were independent of interventions to improve physical fitness. Further, higher CPC levels predicted greater improvements in usual and rapid gait speed over 1 year. Baseline CPC levels are associated not only with baseline mobility but also with future physical function, including changes in gait speed. These findings suggest that CPC measurement may be useful as a marker of both current and future physiologic aging and functional decline. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Martini, Adriana; Ammirati, Adriano; Garcia, Carlos; Andrade, Carolina; Portela, Odete; Cendoroglo, Maysa S; Sesso, Ricardo
2018-04-01
The diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in elderly individuals has been increasing. The objective of this study was to evaluate physical, mental and social aspects in longevous elderly patients with CKD. Eighty patients with CKD (stage 4 and 5, not on dialysis) and 60 longevous elderly (≥ 80 years) paired by gender and age living in the community were evaluated. Physical, cognitive, social and quality of life aspects were analyzed according to the following scales: Charlson comorbidity index, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36-Item (SF-36), Medical Outcomes Study, Boston Naming Test, verbal fluency test (animal naming), sit-to-stand test, gait speed, and the Mini-Mental state examination. Compared to the control group, the CKD group had a higher mean in the comorbidities index (3.5 ± 1.2 vs. 1.0 ± 1, respectively, p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the CKD group presented worse performance in the SF-36 dimensions: 'physical functioning,' 'general health,' 'emotional functioning,' 'vitality,' and physical component summary. On the other hand, they presented better results for the 'mental health' dimension, in addition to lower social support, worse verbal fluency and worse results on the sit-to-stand test. Longevous patients with stage 4 or 5 CKD presented worse evaluation in several domains of physical and emotional functioning, lower social support and evidence of worse cognitive performance. These aspects should be taken into account in order to improve the care provided to these patients, improve their quality of life and prevent their morbidity.
Quality of Life and Functional Health Status of Long-Term Meditators
Manocha, Ramesh; Black, Deborah; Wilson, Leigh
2012-01-01
Background. There is very little data describing the long-term health impacts of meditation. Aim. To compare the quality of life and functional health of long-term meditators to that of the normative population in Australia. Method. Using the SF-36 questionnaire and a Meditation Lifestyle Survey, we sampled 343 long-term Australian Sahaja Yoga meditation practitioners and compared their scores to those of the normative Australian population. Results. Six SF-36 subscales (bodily pain, general health, mental health, role limitation—emotional, social functioning, and vitality) were significantly better in meditators compared to the national norms whereas two of the subscales (role limitation—physical, physical functioning) were not significantly different. A substantial correlation between frequency of mental silence experience and the vitality, general health, and especially mental health subscales (P < 0.005) was found. Conclusion. Long-term practitioners of Sahaja yoga meditation experience better functional health, especially mental health, compared to the general population. A relationship between functional health, especially mental health, and the frequency of meditative experience (mental silence) exists that may be causal. Evidence for the potential role of this definition of meditation in enhancing quality of life, functional health and wellbeing is growing. Implications for primary mental health prevention are discussed. PMID:22611427
2014-01-01
Background Fractures lead to reduced physical function and quality of life (QOL), but little is known about postmenopausal women with osteopenia and a healed wrist fracture. The purpose was to evaluate physical function in terms of quadriceps strength, dynamic balance, physical capacity and QOL in postmenopausal women with osteopenia and a healed wrist fracture compared to a matched, healthy control group with no previous fracture. Methods Eighteen postmenopausal women with osteopenia (patients) (mean age 59.1 years, range 54 – 65) and a healed wrist fracture were matched to 18 healthy control subjects on age (mean age 58.5 years, range 51 – 65), height, weight and body mass index (BMI). We measured quadriceps strength at 60°/sec and at 180°/sec with Biodex 6000, dynamic balance with the Four Square Step Test (FSST), physical capacity with the six-minute walk test (6MWT) followed by the Borg’s scale (BS), and QOL with the Short Form 36 (SF-36), bone mineral density (BMD) with dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and physical activity level with the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. Results The patients had 17.6% lower quadriceps strength at 60°/sec (p = 0.025) at left limb and 18.5% at 180°/sec (p = 0.016) at right limb, and 21% lower at 180°/sec (p = 0.010) at left limb compared to the controls. Impaired performance for the patients was found with 2.4 seconds (p = 0.002) on the FSST, 74 metres (p < 0.001) on the 6MWT, and 1.4 points (p = 0.003) on the BS compared to the controls. The patients scored lower on the sub-scales on the SF-36 role limitations-physical (p = 0.014), bodily pain (p = 0.025) and vitality (p = 0.015) compared to the controls. Conclusions The patients with osteopenia and a healed wrist fracture scored significantly lower on quadriceps strength, dynamic balance, physical capacity and QOL compared to the matched controls. Greater focus should be put on this patient group in terms of
Chen, Chia-Hsin; Chen, Yi-Jen; Tu, Hung-Pin; Huang, Mao-Hsiung; Jhong, Jing-Hui; Lin, Ko-Long
2014-10-01
Cardiopulmonary exercise training is beneficial to people with coronary artery disease (CAD). Nevertheless, the correlation between aerobic capacity, and functional mobility and quality of life in elderly CAD patients is less addressed. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the beneficial effects of exercise training in elderly people with CAD, integrating exercise stress testing, functional mobility, handgrip strength, and health-related quality of life. Elderly people with CAD were enrolled from the outpatient clinic of a cardiac rehabilitation unit in a medical center. Participants were assigned to the exercise training group (N = 21) or the usual care group (N = 15). A total of 36 sessions of exercise training, completed in 12 weeks, was prescribed. Echocardiography, exercise stress testing, the 6-minute walking test, Timed Up and Go test, and handgrip strength testing were performed, and the Short-Form 36 questionnaire (SF-36) was administered at baseline and at 12-week follow-up. Peak oxygen consumption improved significantly after training. The heart rate recovery improved from 13.90/minute to 16.62/minute after exercise training. Functional mobility and handgrip strength also improved after training. Significant improvements were found in SF-36 physical function, social function, role limitation due to emotional problems, and mental health domains. A significant correlation between dynamic cardiopulmonary exercise testing parameters, the 6-minute walking test, Timed Up and Go test, handgrip strength, and SF-36 physical function and general health domains was also detected. Twelve-week, 36-session exercise training, including moderate-intensity cardiopulmonary exercise training, strengthening exercise, and balance training, is beneficial to elderly patients with CAD, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing parameters correlate well with balance and quality of life. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Taiwan.
Oude Voshaar, Martijn A H; Ten Klooster, Peter M; Glas, Cees A W; Vonkeman, Harald E; Taal, Erik; Krishnan, Eswar; Bernelot Moens, Hein J; Boers, Maarten; Terwee, Caroline B; van Riel, Piet L C M; van de Laar, Mart A F J
2015-12-01
To evaluate the content validity and measurement properties of the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) physical function item bank and a 20-item short form in patients with RA in comparison with the HAQ disability index (HAQ-DI) and 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) physical functioning scale (PF-10). The content validity of the instruments was evaluated by linking their items to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) core set for RA. The measures were administered to 690 RA patients enrolled in the Dutch Rheumatoid Arthritis Monitoring registry. Measurement precision was evaluated using item response theory methods and construct validity was evaluated by correlating physical function scores with other clinical and patient-reported outcome measures. All 207 health concepts identified in the physical function measures referred to activities that are featured in the ICF. Twenty-three of 26 ICF RA core set domains are featured in the full PROMIS physical function item bank compared with 13 and 8 for the HAQ-DI and PF-10, respectively. As hypothesized, all three physical function instruments were highly intercorrelated (r 0.74-0.84), moderately correlated with disease activity measures (r 0.44-0.63) and weakly correlated with age (rs 0.07-0.14). Item response theory-based analysis revealed that a 20-item PROMIS physical function short form covered a wider range of physical function levels than the HAQ-DI or PF-10. The PROMIS physical function item bank demonstrated excellent measurement properties in RA. A content-driven 20-item short form may be a useful tool for assessing physical function in RA. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Sirola, J; Pitkala, K H; Tilvis, R S; Miettinen, T A; Strandberg, T E
2011-11-01
To explore the association of frailty according to questionnaire data (modified Fried criteria) with important endpoints in older men. Prospective cohort study (the Helsinki Businessmen Study) in Finland. In 1974, clinically healthy men (born 1919-1934, n=1815) of similar socioeconomic status were identified. After a 26-year follow-up in 2000 (mean age 73 years), disease prevalence, mobility-disability, and frailty status (80.9% of survivors, n=1125) were appraised using a postal questionnaire including RAND-36. Four criteria were used for definition: 1) >5% weight loss from midlife, or body mass index (BMI) <21 kg/m2; 2) reported physical inactivity; 3) low vitality (RAND-36); 4) physical weakness (RAND-36). Responders with 3-4, 1-2, and zero criteria were classified as frail (n=108), prefrail (n=567), and nonfrail (n=450), respectively. Eight-year mortality was assessed from registers, and in 2007, survivors were re-assessed with questionnaires. Nonfrail as referent and adjusted for age, BMI and smoking, both prefrail (HR 2.26; 95% CI, 1.57-3.26), and frail status (4.09; 95% CI, 2.60-6.44) were significant predictors of mortality. Nonfrailty predicted better survival independently of the frailty components, diseases, and disability, and also predicted faster walking speed and less disability 7 years later. Frailty, and also prefrailty, as defined using questionnaire data (RAND-36) independently predicted important endpoints in older men.
Thumboo, Julian; Wu, Yi; Tai, E-Shyong; Gandek, Barbara; Lee, Jeannette; Ma, Stefan; Heng, Derrick; Wee, Hwee-Lin
2013-11-01
We aimed to evaluate the measurement properties of the Singapore English and Chinese versions of the Short-Form 36 version 2 (SF-36v2) Questionnaire, an improved version of the widely used SF-36, for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a multi-ethnic urban Asian population in Singapore. SF-36v2 scores and data on medical history, demographic and lifestyle factors from the Singapore Prospective Study Programme were analyzed. Convergent and divergent validity, internal consistency, floor and ceiling effects, known group validity and factor structure of the SF-36v2 were assessed for the English and Chinese versions, respectively. Complete data for 4,917 participants (45.8 %) out of 10,747 eligible individuals were analyzed (survey language: 4,115 English and 802 Chinese). Item-scale correlations exceeded 0.4 for all items of the English SF-36v2 and for all except one item of the Chinese SF-36v2 (bathe and dress: item-scale correlation: 0.36). In the English SF-36v2, Cronbach's alpha exceeded 0.70 for all scales. In the Chinese SF-36v2, Cronbach's alpha exceeded 0.7 on all scales except social functioning (Cronbach's alpha: 0.68). For known groups validity, respondents with chronic medical conditions expectedly reported lower SF-36v2 score on most English and Chinese SF-36v2 scales. In confirmatory factor analysis, the Singapore three-component model was favored over the United States two-component and Japan three-component models. The English and Chinese SF-36v2 are valid and reliable for assessing HRQoL among English and Chinese-speaking Singaporeans. Test-retest reliability and responsiveness of the English and Chinese SF-36v2 in Singapore remain to be evaluated.
Bauer, J; Beck, B; Wandl, U
2013-06-01
Even though 85 percent of those who have been severely injured in an accident in Germany survive, complex and serious long-term consequences are still a major problem not only for health and care insurance providers but also for the accident victims themselves because their quality of life is affected permanently. Therefore the aim of the current study is to identify factors that significantly improve the quality of life after a severe traumatic injury and to investigate whether the support by a reintegration service has a positive effect on the victims' quality of life. The sample consisted of severely injured accident victims who were supported by a reintegration service. The data collection comprised three data points. At every data point the SF-36 questionnaire was used to assess the participants' quality of life. The results indicate that an individual medical-vocational support by a reintegration service has the potential to significantly and stably improve the physical aspects of quality of life, even if the accident dates back several years. Furthermore it appears to be important to support the independence of the accident victims because assistance by a third person correlates with a lower degree of physical quality of life, regardless of severity or type of injury. Moreover it becomes clear that it is important to pay more attention to the treatment of psychological consequences of severe accidents.
Ko, Gary T C
2006-01-01
To investigate the relationships among obesity, physical activity and quality of life (QOL) in Hong Kong Chinese adults. A cross-sectional study involving 876 subjects (32.9% men and 67.1% women, mean age: 34.8 +/- 7.9 years) from a nonmanual working population. The Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 (SF-36, Chinese version) was used for health-related QOL. Level of physical activity was assessed with self-reported questionnaire. Obesity was defined as body mass index > or = 25 kg/m2. 31% of men and 9% of women were obese (overall 16.0%). Obese subjects had lower scores on some of the SF-36 subscales. As the level of physical activity decreased, mean scores on most SF-36 subscales also progressively decreased. Obese women who had no regular physical activity had lower scores on some QOL subscales than obese women who had some regular physical activity. Among this Hong Kong Chinese sample, both obesity and lack of physical activity are associated with lower scores on QOL.
Underwood, J; De Francesco, D; Post, F A; Vera, J H; Williams, I; Boffito, M; Mallon, P W; Anderson, J; Sachikonye, M; Sabin, C; Winston, A
2017-05-01
While cognitive impairment is frequently reported in HIV-positive individuals and has historically been associated with poorer functional outcomes, the associations between cognitive impairment and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in contemporary cohorts are unclear. We tested cognitive function using a computerized battery (CogState ™ ) in 290 HIV-positive and 97 HIV-negative individuals aged ≥ 50 years participating in the Pharmacokinetic and Clinical Observations in People Over Fifty (POPPY) study. Participants completed questionnaires detailing physical and mental health [Short Form Health Survey (SF-36)], cognitive function [European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS) questions], activities of daily living [Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL)], depression [Patient Depression Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Centres for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D)], falls and sexual desire. Cognitive impairment was defined using the Frascati criteria, global deficit score (GDS) and multivariate normative comparison (MNC). In the HIV-positive group, the classification performances of the different definitions of cognitive impairment and dichotomized questionnaire results were calculated. The prevalence of cognitive impairment in the HIV-positive group was 34.5% (GDS), 30.0% (Frascati) and 22.1% (MNC), with only 2% diagnosed with HIV-associated dementia. In general, the associations between cognitive impairment and PROMs were weak regardless of the definition used: mean c-statistics were 0.543 (GDS), 0.530 (MNC) and 0.519 (Frascati). Associations were similar using the global T-score to define cognitive impairment. Summary health scores (SF-36) were lower, but only significantly so for those with cognitive impairment identified using MNC, for both mental health (61.4 vs. 75.8; P = 0.03) and physical health (60.9 vs. 75.0; P = 0.03). The associations between cognitive impairment and PROMs were weak, possibly because impairment was mild and
Bunevicius, Adomas; Tamasauskas, Sarunas; Deltuva, Vytenis; Tamasauskas, Arimantas; Radziunas, Andrius; Bunevicius, Robertas
2014-02-01
In brain tumor (BT) patients, the association between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and psychological characteristics remains largely unknown. We evaluated the association of personality traits, clinical factors, psychological distress symptoms, and cognitive state with HRQoL in BT patients. On admission for BT surgery, 200 patients (69 % women; age 55.8 ± 14.5 years) were evaluated for HRQoL (SF-36 scale), Big-Five personality traits (Ten-Item Personality Inventory), psychological distress symptoms (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale or HADS), cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination or MMSE) and clinical characteristics, including functional status (Barthel index or BI). The most common BT diagnoses were meningioma (39 %) and high-grade glioma (18 %). Only factors significantly associated with SF-36 domains in univariable regression analyses were included in their respective multivariable models and predicted from 6 %-49 % of the total variance of SF-36 scores. Greater TIPI emotional stability score was independently associated with greater SF-36 emotional well-being (β = 0.23, p < 0.001) and general health (β = 0.18, p = 0.01) scores, and greater TIPI consciousness score, with greater SF-36 emotional well-being score (β = 0.13, p = 0.02). HADS-anxiety and HADS-depression scores were the strongest independent determinants of all, except physical functioning, SF-36 scores (β-values range from 0.14 to 0.56; p values ≤ 0.03). BI score was the strongest independent determinant of SF-36 physical functioning score (β = 0.36, p < 0.001). MMSE score was associated with all but emotional well-being and social functioning SF-36 scores. Consciousness and emotional stability should be considered important personality-related determinants of HRQoL in BT patients. Psychological distress, functional disability, and cognitive impairment are also important predictors of HRQoL.
Rosa-Gonçalves, Diana; Bernardes, Miguel; Costa, Lúcia
2017-04-08
To analyze the Health related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and physical function in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and compare it with the general population. We also intended to analyze about disease activity influence in HRQoL and functional capacity, as well as determine potential determinants for these outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted in RA patients from a university hospital of Portugal. We obtained Short Form 36, EuroQoL 5D, health assessment questionnaire, visual analog scale for pain and patient's assessment of disease activity. Comparisons between SF-36 and EQ-5D values with our population reference values were conducted using the Mann-Whitney test. Data were compared in different levels of disease activity, using Kruskal Wallis test and Fisher's exact test. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to identify the potential determinants of outcomes. RA sample showed significantly lower values than the portuguese general population on physical summary measure of SF-36 (median=32 vs. 50, p<0.001) and EQ-5D (median=0.620 vs. 0.758 respectively; p<0.001). Lower disease activity levels had better PROs and this was true even when compared patients achieving remission with those in low disease activity. The HAQ (r 2 =67%), VAS-P (r 2 =62%) and VAS-DA (r 2 =58%) were the variables that strongly related to SF-36. Considering HAQ, the strongest relation was found with VAS-P, VAS-DA and age (r 2 =60%, 61% and 33%, respectively). Multiple regression analysis identified HAQ, VAS-P and educational status as determinants of the HRQoL; age, female gender, employment, VAS-P and VAS-DA as determinants of physical function. Impairment of HRQoL in RA patients is enormous. We found significant differences between different levels of disease activity, showing higher HRQoL and functional capacity at lower disease activity levels. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights
Expectations Regarding Aging, Physical Activity, and Physical Function in Older Adults
Breda, Aili I.; Watts, Amber S.
2017-01-01
Objective: The present study examined how expectations regarding aging (ERA) influence physical activity participation and physical function. Method: We surveyed 148 older adults about their ERA (ERA-38), health-promoting lifestyles (HPLP-II), and self-rated health (RAND-36). We tested the mediating effect of physical activity on the relationships between ERA and physical function. Results: Positive expectations were associated with more engagement in physical activity (B = 0.016, p < .05) and better physical function (B = 0.521, p < .01). Physical activity mediated the relationship between ERA and physical function (B = 5.890, p < .01, indirect effect 0.092, CI = [0.015, 0.239]). Discussion: ERA play an important role in adoption of physically active lifestyles in older adults and may influence health outcomes, such as physical function. Future research should evaluate whether attempts to increase physical activity are more successful when modifications to ERA are also targeted. PMID:28491915
Tsyben, Anastasia; Guilfoyle, Mathew; Timofeev, Ivan; Anwar, Fahim; Allanson, Judith; Outtrim, Joanne; Menon, David; Hutchinson, Peter; Helmy, Adel
2018-01-01
The outcome following traumatic brain injury (TBI) is heterogeneous and poorly defined and physical disability scales like the extended Glasgow Outcome Score (GOSE) while providing valuation information in terms of broad categorisation of outcome are unlikely to capture the full spectrum of deficits. Quality of life questionnaires such as SF-36 are emerging as potential tools to help characterise factors important to patients' recovery. This study assessed the association between physical disability and subjective health rating. The relationship is of value as it may help evaluate the impact of TBI on patients' lives and facilitate the delivery of appropriate neuro-rehabilitation services. A single-centre retrospective study was undertaken to assess the relationship between physical outcome as measured by GOSE and quality of life captured by the SF-36 questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha was calculated for each of the eight SF-36 domains to measure internal consistency of the test. Multivariate analysis of variance was conducted to look at the association between GOSE and the physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component scores on the SF-36. Finally, we performed a generalised linear mixed model (GLMM) to assess the relative contribution of GOSE score, age at the time of trauma, sex and TBI duration towards MCS and PCS rating. There is a statistically significant difference in the MCS and PCS scores based on patients' GOSE scores. The mean scores of the eight SF-36 domains showed significant association with GOSE. GLMM demonstrated that GOSE was the strongest predictor of PCS and MCS. Age was an important variable in the PCS score while time following trauma was a significant predictor of MCS rating. This study highlights that patients' physical outcome following TBI is a strong predictor of the subjective mental and physical health. Nevertheless, there remains tremendous variability in individual SF-36 scores for each GOSE category, highlighting that additional factors
Tsonga, Th; Kapetanakis, S; Papadopoulos, C; Papathanasiou, J; Mourgias, N; Georgiou, N; Fiska, A; Kazakos, K
2011-01-01
Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in quality of life of patients after total knee arthroplasty and to assess the changes in physical activity by using a self-reported questionnaire and by counting the number of steps 3-6 months after post-operatively. Methods: Included were fifty two elderly women (age 72.6±65.9 years, mean±SD) with knee osteoarthritis undergoing primary knee arthroplasty. Health-related quality of life, physical activity, pain and function and the number of steps were assessed before, 3 and 6 months post-operatively. We used the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form (SF-36), the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) and the pedometer SW200 Digiwalker of Yamax. Results: Patients showed a significant improvement (p< 0.01, η2 =0.22) in health–related quality of life, particularly in physical function, (p<0 .001) body pain (p< 0.001) and vitality scale (p< 0.001) of SF-36 at 3 and 6 months after the procedure. Physical activity (PASE score) increased at 3 and 6 months after arthroplasty (p< 0.001, η2 =0.74), and the number of steps increased 6 months after, compared to the assessment that took place 3 months after operation (p< 0.001). Conclusions: Our results suggest that total knee arthroplasty leads to a gradual improvement in quality of life of elderly patients over the first 6 post-operative months. PMID:21966339
Tsonga, Th; Kapetanakis, S; Papadopoulos, C; Papathanasiou, J; Mourgias, N; Georgiou, N; Fiska, A; Kazakos, K
2011-01-01
The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in quality of life of patients after total knee arthroplasty and to assess the changes in physical activity by using a self-reported questionnaire and by counting the number of steps 3-6 months after post-operatively. Included were fifty two elderly women (age 72.6±65.9 years, mean±SD) with knee osteoarthritis undergoing primary knee arthroplasty. Health-related quality of life, physical activity, pain and function and the number of steps were assessed before, 3 and 6 months post-operatively. We used the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form (SF-36), the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) and the pedometer SW200 Digiwalker of Yamax. Patients showed a significant improvement (p< 0.01, η2 =0.22) in health-related quality of life, particularly in physical function, (p<0 .001) body pain (p< 0.001) and vitality scale (p< 0.001) of SF-36 at 3 and 6 months after the procedure. Physical activity (PASE score) increased at 3 and 6 months after arthroplasty (p< 0.001, η2 =0.74), and the number of steps increased 6 months after, compared to the assessment that took place 3 months after operation (p< 0.001). Our results suggest that total knee arthroplasty leads to a gradual improvement in quality of life of elderly patients over the first 6 post-operative months.
Neary, W J; Hillier, V F; Flute, T; Stephens, S D G; Ramsden, R T; Evans, D G R
2010-08-01
To investigate the relationship between those issues concerning quality of life in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) as identified by the closed set NF2 questionnaire and the eight norm-based measures and the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores of the Short Form-36 (SF-36) Questionnaire. Postal questionnaire study. Questionnaires sent to subjects' home addresses. Eighty-seven adult subjects under the care of the Manchester Multidisciplinary NF2 Clinic were invited to participate. Sixty-two (71%) completed sets of closed set NF2 questionnaires and SF-36 questionnaires were returned. Subjects with NF2 scored less than the norm of 50 on both the physical component summary and mental component summary scores and the eight individual norm-based measures of the Short Form-36 questionnaire. Correlations (using Kendall's tau) were examined between patients' perceptions of their severity of difficulty with the following activities and the eight norm-based measures and the physical component summary and mental component summary scores of the Short Form-36 questionnaire: Communicating with spouse/significant other (N = 61). The correlation coefficients were significant at the 0.01 level for the mental component summary score, together with three of the norm-based scores [vitality (VT), social functioning and role emotional]. Social communication (N = 62). All 10 correlations were significant at the 0.01 or 0.001 level. Balance (N = 59). All 10 correlations were highly significant at the P < 0.001 level. Hearing difficulties (N = 61). All correlations were significant at either the 0.01 level or less apart from the mental component summary score and three of the norm-based scores (role physical, VT and mental health). Mood change (N = 61). All correlations were significant at the 0.01 level or less, apart from one norm-based score (role physical). The Short Form-36 questionnaire has allowed us to relate patients' perceptions of
Psychiatric Symptoms and Quality of Life in Military Personnel Deployed Abroad.
Oznur, Taner; Akarsu, Suleyman; Erdem, Murat; Durusu, Murat; Toygar, Mehmet; Poyrazoglu, Yavuz; Kaldirim, Umit; Eryilmaz, Mehmet; Ozmenler, Kamil Nahit
2015-01-01
Military personnel deployed abroad could be exposed to more risk factors that adversely affect quality of life. In this study, we examined psychiatric symptoms and quality of life in Turkish Armed Forces deployed to Afghanistan. A total of 289 Turkish military personnel working in Afghanistan enrolled in this study. They completed two surveys containing questions about socio-demographic characteristics. Data were collected and analyzed from 258 of the participants. The general symptom scores (GSI) were above 1 in 20.8 Percent (n=54) of the participants. The lowest SF-36 scores by the sub-groups were mental health (59.14 ± 18.56) and vitality (59.25 ± 21.17). The highest score was in the physical function subscale (84.42 ± 19.53). All Quality of Life Questionnaire Short Form (SF-36)subscale scores were lower in the GSI above 1 group than the GSI below 1 group. In the GSI above 1 group: education level and depression affected SF-36 physical functioning; paranoid ideation and somatization affected SF-36 role limitations due to physical health; age and somatization affected SF-36 pain; age affected SF-36 general health; phobic anxiety affected SF-36 vitality; age, tenure of occupation, tenure abroad; and phobic anxiety affected SF-36 mental health. The negative effects of psychiatric symptoms on the quality of life were similar to those in the general population and in specific disease groups. These results should be considered when evaluating the mental health of military personnel deployed abroad.
Validity and reliability of the Self-Reported Physical Fitness (SRFit) survey.
Keith, NiCole R; Clark, Daniel O; Stump, Timothy E; Miller, Douglas K; Callahan, Christopher M
2014-05-01
An accurate physical fitness survey could be useful in research and clinical care. To estimate the validity and reliability of a Self-Reported Fitness (SRFit) survey; an instrument that estimates muscular fitness, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, BMI, and body composition (BC) in adults ≥ 40 years of age. 201 participants completed the SF-36 Physical Function Subscale, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Older Adults' Desire for Physical Competence Scale (Rejeski), the SRFit survey, and the Rikli and Jones Senior Fitness Test. BC, height and weight were measured. SRFit survey items described BC, BMI, and Senior Fitness Test movements. Correlations between the Senior Fitness Test and the SRFit survey assessed concurrent validity. Cronbach's Alpha measured internal consistency within each SRFit domain. SRFit domain scores were compared with SF-36, IPAQ, and Rejeski survey scores to assess construct validity. Intraclass correlations evaluated test-retest reliability. Correlations between SRFit and the Senior Fitness Test domains ranged from 0.35 to 0.79. Cronbach's Alpha scores were .75 to .85. Correlations between SRFit and other survey scores were -0.23 to 0.72 and in the expected direction. Intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.79 to 0.93. All P-values were 0.001. Initial evaluation supports the SRFit survey's validity and reliability.
Grozdev, Ivan; Kast, Douglas; Cao, Lauren; Carlson, Diana; Pujari, Prasad; Schmotzer, Brian; Babineau, Denise; Kern, Elizabeth; McCormick, Thomas; Cooper, Kevin D.; Korman, Neil J.
2012-01-01
The Short Form-12 Health Survey (SF-12) is used to assess the patient’s quality of life (QoL) using the physical component score (PCS) and the mental component score (MCS). The purpose of this study was to determine whether the SF-12 PCS and MCS are associated with psoriasis severity and to compare QoL between Murdough Family Center for Psoriasis (MFCP) patients and patients with other major chronic diseases included in the National Survey of Functional Health Status data. We used data from 429 adult patients enrolled in MFCP. Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) was used to assess psoriasis severity at the time of completion of the SF-12 questionnaire. Other variables included age, sex, body mass index, psoriatic arthritis, psychiatric disorders, and comorbidities. Linear regression models were used to estimate effect sizes ±95% confidence intervals. For every 10-point increase in PASI, there was a 1.1±1.3 unit decrease in MCS (P = 0.100) and a 2.4±1.3 unit decrease in PCS (P<0.001). Psoriasis severity was associated with PCS and MCS after adjusting for variables, although the strength of the relationship was attenuated in some models. Psoriasis severity is associated with decreased QoL. SF-12 may be a useful tool for assessing QoL among psoriasis patients. PMID:22205305
Sekine, Michikazu; Chandola, Tarani; Martikainen, Pekka; Marmot, Michael; Kagamimori, Sadanobu
2009-11-01
This study aims to evaluate whether the pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in physical and mental functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) differs among employees in Britain, Finland, and Japan and whether work characteristics contribute to some of the health inequalities. The participants were 7340 (5122 men and 2218 women) British employees, 2297 (1638 men and 659 women) Japanese employees, and 8164 (1649 men and 6515 women) Finnish employees. All the participants were civil servants aged 40-60 years. Both male and female low grade employees had poor physical functioning in all cohorts. British and Japanese male low grade employees tended to have poor mental functioning but the associations were significant only for Japanese men. No consistent employment-grade differences in mental functioning were observed among British and Japanese women. Among Finnish men and women, high grade employees had poor mental functioning. In all cohorts, high grade employees had high control, high demands and long work hours. The grade differences in poor physical functioning and disadvantaged work characteristics among non-manual workers were somewhat smaller in the Finnish cohort than in the British and Japanese cohorts. Low control, high demands, and both short and long work hours were associated with poor functioning. When work characteristics were adjusted for, the socioeconomic differences in poor functioning were mildly attenuated in men, but the differences increased slightly in women. This study reconfirms the generally observed pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in health for physical functioning but not for mental functioning. The role of work characteristics in the relationship between socioeconomic status and health differed between men and women but was modest overall. We suggest that these differences in the pattern and magnitude of grade differences in work characteristics and health among the 3 cohorts may be attributable to the different welfare
Chandola, Tarani; Martikainen, Pekka; Marmot, Michael; Kagamimori, Sadanobu
2009-01-01
This study aims to evaluate whether the pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in physical and mental functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) differs among employees in Britain, Finland, and Japan and whether work characteristics contribute to some of the health inequalities. The participants were 7340 (5122 men and 2218 women) British employees, 2297 (1638 men and 659 women) Japanese employees, and 8164 (1649 men and 6515 women) Finnish employees. All the participants were civil servants aged 40–60 years. Both male and female low grade employees had poor physical functioning in all cohorts. British and Japanese male low grade employees tended to have poor mental functioning but the associations were significant only for Japanese men. No consistent employment-grade differences in mental functioning were observed among British and Japanese women. Among Finnish men and women, high grade employees had poor mental functioning. In all cohorts, high grade employees had high control, high demands and long work hours. The grade differences in poor physical functioning and disadvantaged work characteristics among non-manual workers were somewhat smaller in the Finnish cohort than in the British and Japanese cohorts. Low control, high demands, and both short and long work hours were associated with poor functioning. When work characteristics were adjusted for, the socioeconomic differences in poor functioning were mildly attenuated in men, but the differences increased slightly in women. This study reconfirms the generally observed pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in health for physical functioning but not for mental functioning. The role of work characteristics in the relationship between socioeconomic status and health differed between men and women but was modest overall. We suggest that these differences in the pattern and magnitude of grade differences in work characteristics and health among the 3 cohorts may be attributable to the different welfare
Thimm, Jens C
2017-12-01
The Computerized Adaptive Test of Personality Disorder-Static Form (CAT-PD-SF) is a self-report inventory developed to assess pathological personality traits. The current study explored the reliability and higher order factor structure of the Norwegian version of the CAT-PD-SF and the relationships between the CAT-PD traits and domains of personality functioning in an undergraduate student sample ( N = 375). In addition to the CAT-PD-SF, the short form of the Severity Indices of Personality Problems and the Brief Symptom Inventory were administered. The results showed that the Norwegian CAT-PD-SF has good score reliability. Factor analysis of the CAT-PD-SF scales indicated five superordinate factors that correspond to the trait domains of the alternative DSM-5 model for personality disorders. The CAT-PD traits were highly predictive of impaired personality functioning after controlling for psychological distress. It is concluded that the CAT-PD-SF is a promising tool for the assessment of personality disorder traits.
Better assessment of physical function: item improvement is neglected but essential
2009-01-01
Introduction Physical function is a key component of patient-reported outcome (PRO) assessment in rheumatology. Modern psychometric methods, such as Item Response Theory (IRT) and Computerized Adaptive Testing, can materially improve measurement precision at the item level. We present the qualitative and quantitative item-evaluation process for developing the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function item bank. Methods The process was stepwise: we searched extensively to identify extant Physical Function items and then classified and selectively reduced the item pool. We evaluated retained items for content, clarity, relevance and comprehension, reading level, and translation ease by experts and patient surveys, focus groups, and cognitive interviews. We then assessed items by using classic test theory and IRT, used confirmatory factor analyses to estimate item parameters, and graded response modeling for parameter estimation. We retained the 20 Legacy (original) Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and the 10 SF-36's PF-10 items for comparison. Subjects were from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and healthy aging cohorts (n = 1,100) and a national Internet sample of 21,133 subjects. Results We identified 1,860 items. After qualitative and quantitative evaluation, 124 newly developed PROMIS items composed the PROMIS item bank, which included revised Legacy items with good fit that met IRT model assumptions. Results showed that the clearest and best-understood items were simple, in the present tense, and straightforward. Basic tasks (like dressing) were more relevant and important versus complex ones (like dancing). Revised HAQ-DI and PF-10 items with five response options had higher item-information content than did comparable original Legacy items with fewer response options. IRT analyses showed that the Physical Function domain satisfied general criteria for unidimensionality with one-, two
Better assessment of physical function: item improvement is neglected but essential.
Bruce, Bonnie; Fries, James F; Ambrosini, Debbie; Lingala, Bharathi; Gandek, Barbara; Rose, Matthias; Ware, John E
2009-01-01
Physical function is a key component of patient-reported outcome (PRO) assessment in rheumatology. Modern psychometric methods, such as Item Response Theory (IRT) and Computerized Adaptive Testing, can materially improve measurement precision at the item level. We present the qualitative and quantitative item-evaluation process for developing the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function item bank. The process was stepwise: we searched extensively to identify extant Physical Function items and then classified and selectively reduced the item pool. We evaluated retained items for content, clarity, relevance and comprehension, reading level, and translation ease by experts and patient surveys, focus groups, and cognitive interviews. We then assessed items by using classic test theory and IRT, used confirmatory factor analyses to estimate item parameters, and graded response modeling for parameter estimation. We retained the 20 Legacy (original) Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and the 10 SF-36's PF-10 items for comparison. Subjects were from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and healthy aging cohorts (n = 1,100) and a national Internet sample of 21,133 subjects. We identified 1,860 items. After qualitative and quantitative evaluation, 124 newly developed PROMIS items composed the PROMIS item bank, which included revised Legacy items with good fit that met IRT model assumptions. Results showed that the clearest and best-understood items were simple, in the present tense, and straightforward. Basic tasks (like dressing) were more relevant and important versus complex ones (like dancing). Revised HAQ-DI and PF-10 items with five response options had higher item-information content than did comparable original Legacy items with fewer response options. IRT analyses showed that the Physical Function domain satisfied general criteria for unidimensionality with one-, two-, three-, and four-factor models
Influence of cognitive function on quality of life in anorexia nervosa patients.
Hamatani, Sayo; Tomotake, Masahito; Takeda, Tomoya; Kameoka, Naomi; Kawabata, Masashi; Kubo, Hiroko; Tada, Yukio; Tomioka, Yukiko; Watanabe, Shinya; Inoshita, Masatoshi; Kinoshita, Makoto; Ohta, Masashi; Ohmori, Tetsuro
2017-05-01
The purpose of this study was to elucidate determinants of quality of life (QOL) in anorexia nervosa (AN) patients. Twenty-one female patients with AN participated in the study. QOL was assessed with the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and cognitive function was evaluated using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test Keio version, the Rey Complex Figure Test, and the Social Cognition Screening Questionnaire. Clinical symptoms were evaluated with the Beck Depression Inventory-II, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Form JYZ (STAI-JYZ), and the Maudsley Obsessive Compulsive Inventory. The Difficulty Maintaining Set score of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test Keio version was negatively correlated to the SF-36 Physical Component Summary. Scores of the Beck Depression Inventory-II and the STAI-JYZ State and Trait were negatively correlated to the SF-36 Mental Component Summary (MCS), and the Central Coherence Index 30-min Delayed Recall score of the Rey Complex Figure Test was positively correlated with the MCS. Stepwise regression analysis showed that the Difficulty Maintaining Set score was an independent predictor of the Physical Component Summary and scores for Central Coherence Index 30-min Delayed Recall and the STAI-JYZ Trait-predicted MCS. These results suggest that not only trait anxiety but also poor central coherence and impaired ability to maintain new rule worsen AN patients' QOL. © 2016 The Authors. Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences © 2016 Japanese Society of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Patterns of functional improvement after revision knee arthroplasty.
Ghomrawi, Hassan M K; Kane, Robert L; Eberly, Lynn E; Bershadsky, Boris; Saleh, Khaled J
2009-12-01
Despite the increase in the number of total knee arthroplasty revisions, outcomes of such surgery and their correlates are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to characterize patterns of functional improvement after revision total knee arthroplasty over a two-year period and to investigate factors that affect such improvement patterns. Three hundred and eight patients in need of revision surgery were enrolled into the study, conducted at seventeen centers, and 221 (71.8%) were followed for two years. Short Form-36 (SF-36), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Lower-Extremity Activity Scale (LEAS) scores were collected at baseline and every six months for two years postoperatively. A piecewise general linear mixed model, which models correlation between repeated measures and estimates separate slopes for different follow-up time periods, was employed to examine functional improvement patterns. Separate regression slopes were estimated for the zero to twelve-month and the twelve to twenty-four-month periods. The slopes for zero to twelve months showed significant improvement in all measures in the first year. The slopes for twelve to twenty-four months showed deterioration in the scores of the WOMAC pain subscale (slope = 0.67 +/- 0.21, p < 0.01) and function subscale (slope = 1.66 +/- 0.63, p < 0.05), whereas the slopes of the other measures had plateaued. A higher number of comorbidities was consistently the strongest deterrent of functional improvement across measures. The modes of failure of the primary total knee arthroplasty were instrument-specific predictors of outcome (for example, tibial bone lysis affected only the SF-36 physical component score [coefficient = -5.46 +/- 1.91, p < 0.01], while malalignment affected both the SF-36 physical component score [coefficient = 5.41 +/- 2.35, p < 0.05] and the LEAS score [coefficient = 1.42 +/- 0.69, p < 0.05]). Factors related to the surgical technique did not predict
Ros, Cristina; Alobid, Isam; Balasch, Juan; Mullol, Joaquim; Castelo-Branco, Camil
2013-06-01
We sought to assess the burden of Turner's syndrome (TS) and other congenital hypogonadisms (OCH) on quality of life (QOL) and sexual function. An observational study was undertaken in a gynecological endocrinology unit of a teaching hospital. Three cohorts of women aged 20-50 years were compared: 26 TS patients, 21 women with OCH and wild-type karyotype, and 41 healthy age-matched women who were included as controls. All subjects filled out the Medical Outcome Study Short Form (SF-36) and the Female Sexual Function Index. TS subjects had significantly worse QOL scores in physical functioning (P = .026) and role physical functioning (P = .032) whereas OCH showed significantly worse scores in physical functioning (P = .027) and bodily pain (P = .025) compared to controls. In all, 80% of OCH and 50% of TS patients declared sexual activity. Sexually active TS patients had poorer arousal outcomes (P = .009) and OCH women showed significantly worse scores in arousal (P = .002), orgasm (P = .007), pain (P = .001), and Female Sexual Function Index total score (P = .004) compared with healthy controls. No differences between sexually active and inactive TS women were found in SF-36 scores, clinical characteristics, or anthropomorphic characteristics. TS and OCH subjects presented impaired physical domains in QOL. Women with TS are less likely to be involved in sexual activity, arousal dysfunctions being their main symptom. Conversely, arousal, orgasm, pain, and total score were significantly affected in OCH subjects. Copyright © 2013 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.
Mbada, Chidozie Emmanuel; Adeogun, Gafar Atanda; Ogunlana, Michael Opeoluwa; Adedoyin, Rufus Adesoji; Akinsulore, Adesanmi; Awotidebe, Taofeek Oluwole; Idowu, Opeyemi Ayodiipo; Olaoye, Olumide Ayoola
2015-09-14
The Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) is a valid quality of life tool often employed to determine the impact of medical intervention and the outcome of health care services. However, the SF-36 is culturally sensitive which necessitates its adaptation and translation into different languages. This study was conducted to cross-culturally adapt the SF-36 into Yoruba language and determine its reliability and validity. Based on the International Quality of Life Assessment project guidelines, a sequence of translation, test of item-scale correlation, and validation was implemented for the translation of the Yoruba version of the SF-36. Following pilot testing, the English and the Yoruba versions of the SF-36 were administered to a random sample of 1087 apparently healthy individuals to test validity and 249 respondents completed the Yoruba SF-36 again after two weeks to test reliability. Data was analyzed using Pearson's product moment correlation analysis, independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, multi trait scaling analysis and Intra-Class Correlation (ICC) at p < 0.05. The concurrent validity scores for scales and domains ranges between 0.749 and 0.902 with the highest and lowest scores in the General Health (0.902) and Bodily Pain (0.749) scale. Scale-level descriptive result showed that all scale and domain scores had negative skewness ranging from -2.08 to -0.98. The mean scores for each scales ranges between 83.2 and 88.8. The domain scores for Physical Health Component and Mental Health Component were 85.6 ± 13.7 and 85.9 ± 15.4 respectively. The convergent validity was satisfactory, ranging from 0.421 to 0.907. Discriminant validity was also satisfactory except for item '1'. The ICC for the test-retest reliability of the Yoruba SF-36 ranges between 0.636 and 0.843 for scales; and 0.783 and 0.851 for domains. The data quality, concurrent and discriminant validity, reliability and internal consistency of the Yoruba version of the SF-36 are adequate and
Elboim-Gabyzon, Michal; Agmon, Maayan; Azaiza, Faisal; Laufer, Yocheved
2015-04-24
The Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument (LLFDI) provides a comprehensive, reliable, and valid assessment of physical function and disability in community-dwelling adults. There does not appear to be a validated, comprehensive instrument for assessing function and disability in Arabic. The objective of the present study was to translate and culturally adapt the LLFDI to Arabic, and to determine its test-retest reliability and validity. The LLFDI was translated to Arabic through a forward and backward translation process, and approved by a bilingual committee of experts. Sixty-one (26 male and 35 female) Arabic speaking, healthy, older adults, ages 65-88, living in northern Israel participated in the study. To determine test-retest reliability, the questionnaire was administered twice to 41 subjects with a 6 to 8day interval. Construct validity was examined by correlating the LLFDI responses with the 10-item physical function (PF-10) subscales of the General Health Survey (SF-36), with the physical component of SF-36 (SF-36 PCS), and with two performance measures, the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Time Up and Go (TUG) test. Additionally, gender and fall related differences in the LLFDI were also examined. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was good to excellent (0.77 to 0.97). Test-retest agreement was good to very good (function component: 0.86-0.93, disability component: 0.77-0.93). Correlation with the SF-36 PCS and PF-10 was moderate to strong for both LLFDI components (function, r = 0.53-0.65 and r = 0.57-0.63, and LLFDI disability, r = 0.57-0.76 and 0.53-0.73, respectively). Significant, moderate-to-strong correlations between the LLFDI and BBS (r = 0.73-0.87) and a significant, moderate, negative correlation between LLFDI and TUG test (r = -0.59- -0.68) were noted. The standard error of measure was 6-12%, and the smallest real difference was 18-33%. Discriminative validity for both gender and fall status were also demonstrated. The Arabic version
Sidorov, Jaan; Shull, Robert D; Girolami, Sabrina; Mensch, Debra
2003-01-01
While disease management has been described as an important strategy for the care of patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) in the managed care setting, little is known about the impact of this approach on overall health-related quality of life. In this study the Short Form 36 (SF-36) was administered to all patients entering CHF disease management at the time of program entry and at 1 year following entry. Scores on the eight subscales and the two composite scales were calculated and compared before and after. Patients were enrolled from a mixed-model health maintenance organization (HMO) with 34,740 Medicare + Choice enrollees residing in 38 counties in central and northeastern Pennsylvania. Two hundred sixty-eight continuously enrolled patients in an HMO-sponsored CHF disease state management program with completed baseline and follow-up SF-36 surveys were sampled. All patients entered into disease management received primary care based, nurse-directed education about CHF self-management including instruction on etiology of CHF, the importance of medication compliance, home care services if indicated, monitoring weight gain, increased understanding of the warning signs of worsening CHF, and coaching on strategies to contact a physician in a timely manner when CHF worsens. Nurses also facilitated for CHF guidelines among primary care physicians, including the need to obtain a baseline assessment of cardiac function, prescribe angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and beta blockers when appropriate, and initiated appropriate specialist referral. Compared with enrollees who did not complete a pair of SF-36 surveys, the 268 respondents were younger and had a significantly higher rate of cardiac imaging as well as use of ACE inhibitors and beta blocker medications. Analysis of the SF-36 data revealed that three of the eight (Role Physical, General Health Perceptions, and Role Emotional) subscales increased in a statistically significant manner, as
Sanchez, M L; McGwin, G; Durán, S; Fernández, M; Reveille, J D; Vilá, L M; Alarcón, G S
2009-01-01
Health related quality of life (HRQOL) over course of the disease was ascertained in SLE patients from LUMINA, a multiethnic US cohort, using the SF-36-derived utility measure, the SF-6D. All available visits were examined to predict HRQOL using either variables from the baseline or enrollment visits or from the preceding visits. The physical and mental component summary (PCS and MCS, respectively) measures of the SF-36 were also examined. A total of 2662 visits from 588 SLE patients were included; 90% of the patients were women, 19% Hispanic-Texans, 17% Hispanic-Puerto Ricans, 35% African Americans and 29% Caucasians. The patients' mean (SD) SF-6D was 0.6 (0.1). In multivariable analyses, Hispanic-Texan ethnicity and higher levels of social support were predictors of HRQOL whereas older age, poverty, greater disease activity and damage and higher levels of fatigue, helplessness and abnormal illness-related behaviors were negative predictors. Prior SF-6D was the strongest variable predictive of subsequent HRQOL, when included. The analyses in which the PCS and MCS were examined as end-points were, overall, consistent with the SF-6D results. We conclude that the SF-6D index provides an adequate measure of self-perceived HRQOL and that patients' self-perception of HRQOL is influenced by disease and non-disease related factors.
Davenport, Todd E; Stevens, Staci R; Baroni, Katie; Van Ness, J Mark; Snell, Christopher R
2011-01-01
To determine the validity and reliability of Short Form 36 Version 2 (SF36v2) in sub-groups of individuals with fatigue. Thirty subjects participated in this study, including n = 16 subjects who met case definition criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and n = 14 non-disabled sedentary matched control subjects. SF36v2 and Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20) were administered before two maximal cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPETs) administered 24 h apart and an open-ended recovery questionnaire was administered 7 days after CPET challenge. The main outcome measures were self-reported time to recover to pre-challenge functional and symptom status, frequency of post-exertional symptoms and SF36v2 sub-scale scores. Individuals with CFS demonstrated significantly lower SF36v2 and MFI-20 sub-scale scores prior to CPET. Between-group differences remained significant post-CPET, however, there were no significant group by test interaction effects. Subjects with CFS reported significantly more total symptoms (p < 0.001), as well as reports of fatigue (p < 0.001), neuroendocrine (p < 0.001), immune (p < 0.01), pain (p < 0.01) and sleep disturbance (p < 0.01) symptoms than control subjects as a result of CPET. Many symptom counts demonstrated significant relationships with SF36v2 sub-scale scores (p < 0.05). SF36v2 and MFI-20 sub-scale scores demonstrated significant correlations (p < 0.05). Various SF36v2 sub-scale scores demonstrated significant predictive validity to identify subjects who recovered from CPET challenge within 1 day and 7 days (p < 0.05). Potential floor effects were observed for both questionnaires for individuals with CFS. Various sub-scales of SF36v2 demonstrated adequate reliability and validity for clinical and research applications. Adequacy of sensitivity to change of SF36v2 as a result of a fatiguing stressor should be the subject of additional study.
Correlation between sexual function and postrenal transplant quality of life: does gender matter?
Tavallaii, Seyed Abbas; Fathi-Ashtiani, Ali; Nasiri, Mahmoud; Assari, Shervin; Maleki, Pouria; Einollahi, Behzad
2007-11-01
Subjective health perceptions affect sexual function differently in males and females; such differences, however, have not hitherto been studied comprehensively in kidney-transplant recipients. This study sought to investigate gender effect on the correlation between sexual function and quality-of-life (QOL) subdomains in kidney-transplant recipients by evaluating intercourse frequency (IF) and intercourse satisfaction (IS). In a cross-sectional study, 124 married kidney-transplant recipients, who were randomly selected, were interviewed. The bivariate correlations between QOL subdomains, and IF and IS were analyzed with the Pearson test in the males and females, separately. The IF and IS using the relationship and sexuality scale, and also the QOL using Short Form 36 (SF-36) were assessed. Sixty-seven subjects (54%) reported having no intercourse within the preceding months. Fifty subjects (40%) reported having no intercourse satisfaction. While IF and IS correlated with the total SF-36 score in the males (r = 0.252 and 0.263, P < 0.05), there was no such correlation in the females. In the males, IS correlated with physical health (r = 0.281, P < 0.05) and physical function (r = 0.274, P < 0.05), and there was a correlation between IF and role limitation due to emotional problems (r = 0.250, P < 0.05). In the females, whereas IF correlated with general health (r = 0.372, P < 0.05) and mental health (r = 0.305, P < 0.05), there was no correlation between IS and QOL subdomains (P > 0.05). Sexual function and satisfaction seem to be correlated with mental and physical health in female and male kidney-transplant recipients, respectively. Although in the two genders, both physical and mental health should be equally evaluated; improving of the sexual function may be better achieved through different approaches.
Borloz, S; Trippolini, M A; Ballabeni, P; Luthi, F; Deriaz, O
2012-09-01
Functional subjective evaluation through questionnaire is fundamental, but not often realized in patients with back complaints, lacking validated tools. The Spinal Function Sort (SFS) was only validated in English. We aimed to translate, adapt and validate the French (SFS-F) and German (SFS-G) versions of the SFS. Three hundred and forty-four patients, experiencing various back complaints, were recruited in a French (n = 87) and a German-speaking (n = 257) center. Construct validity was estimated via correlations with SF-36 physical and mental scales, pain intensity and hospital anxiety and depression scales (HADS). Scale homogeneities were assessed by Cronbach's α. Test-retest reliability was assessed on 65 additional patients using intraclass correlation (IC). For the French and German translations, respectively, α were 0.98 and 0.98; IC 0.98 (95% CI: [0.97; 1.00]) and 0.94 (0.90; 0.98). Correlations with physical functioning were 0.63 (0.48; 0.74) and 0.67 (0.59; 0.73); with physical summary 0.60 (0.44; 0.72) and 0.52 (0.43; 0.61); with pain -0.33 (-0.51; -0.13) and -0.51 (-0.60; -0.42); with mental health -0.08 (-0.29; 0.14) and 0.25 (0.13; 0.36); with mental summary 0.01 (-0.21; 0.23) and 0.28 (0.16; 0.39); with depression -0.26 (-0.45; -0.05) and -0.42 (-0.52; -0.32); with anxiety -0.17 (-0.37; -0.04) and -0.45 (-0.54; -0.35). Reliability was excellent for both languages. Convergent validity was good with SF-36 physical scales, moderate with VAS pain. Divergent validity was low with SF-36 mental scales in both translated versions and with HADS for the SFS-F (moderate in SFS-G). Both versions seem to be valid and reliable for evaluating perceived functional capacity in patients with back complaints.
Leng, Xiaoyan; La Monte, Michael J.; Tindle, Hilary A.; Cochrane, Barbara B.; Shumaker, Sally A.
2016-01-01
Abstract Background. We examined physical functioning (PF) trajectories (maintaining, slowly declining, and rapidly declining) spanning 15 years in older women aged 65–80 and protective factors that predicted better current levels and less decline in functional independence outcomes after age 80. Methods. Women’s Health Initiative extension participants who met criteria (enrolled in either the clinical trial or observational study cohort, >80 years at the data release cutoff, PF survey data from initial enrollment to age 80, and functional independence survey data after age 80) were included in these analyses (mean [ SD ] age = 84.0 [1.4] years; N = 10,478). PF was measured with the SF-36 (mean = 4.9 occasions). Functional independence was measured by self-reported level of dependence in basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADLs and IADLs) (mean = 3.4 and 3.3 occasions). Results. Maintaining consistent PF in older adulthood extends functional independence in ADL and IADL in late-life. Protective factors shared by ADL and IADL include maintaining PF over time, self-reported excellent or very good health, no history of hip fracture after age 55, and no history of cardiovascular disease. Better IADL function is uniquely predicted by a body mass index less than 25 and no depression. Less ADL and IADL decline is predicted by better self-reported health, and less IADL decline is uniquely predicted by having no history of hip fracture after age 55. Conclusions. Maintaining or improving PF and preventing injury and disease in older adulthood (ages 65–80) has far-reaching implications for improving late-life (after age 80) functional independence. PMID:26858328
Racial differences in health-related quality of life and functional ability in patients with gout
Bharat, Aseem; Khanna, Dinesh; Aquino-Beaton, Cleopatra; Persselin, Jay E.; Duffy, Erin; Elashoff, David; Khanna, Puja P.
2017-01-01
Objective. To compare the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and the functional ability by race in patients with gout. Methods. In a 9-month prospective cohort multicentre study, patients with gout self-reported race, dichotomized as Caucasian or African American (others excluded). We calculated HRQOL/function scores adjusted for age, study site and college education for Short Form-36 (SF-36; generic HRQOL), Gout Impact Scale (GIS; disease-specific HRQOL) and HAQ-disability index (HAQ-DI; functional ability). Longitudinally adjusted scores were computed using multivariable mixed-effect regression models with a random patient effect and fixed sequential visit effect (3-monthly visits). Results. Compared with Caucasians (n = 107), African Americans (n = 60) with gout were younger (61.1 vs 67.3 years) and had higher median baseline serum urate (9.0 vs 7.9 mg/dl) (P < 0.01). African Americans with gout had worse HRQOL scores on three SF-36 domains, the mental component summary (MCS) and two of the five GIS scales than Caucasians [mean (s.e.); P ⩽ 0.02 for all]: SF-36 mental health, 39.7 (1.1) vs 45.2 (0.9); SF-36 role emotional, 42.1 (4.2) vs 51.4 (4.2); SF-36 social functioning, 36.0 (1.1) vs 40.0 (0.9) (P = 0.04); SF-36 MCS, 43.2 (3.1) vs 50.0 (3.2); GIS unmet treatment need, 37.6 (1.6) vs 31.5 (1.4); and GIS concern during attacks, 53.3 (3.7) vs 47.4 (3.7). Differences between the respective HAQ-DI total scores were not statistically significant; 0.98 (0.1) vs 0.80 (1.0) (P = 0.11). Racial differences in SF-36 mental health, role emotional and MCS scales exceeded, and for HAQ-DI approached, the minimal clinically important difference thresholds. Conclusions. African Americans with gout have significantly worse HRQOL compared with Caucasians. Further research is necessary in the form of studies targeted at African Americans on how best to improve these outcomes. PMID:28028159
Younsi, Moheddine; Chakroun, Mohamed
2014-09-01
The 12-item short-form health survey (SF-12) was developed as a shorter alternative to the SF-36 for use in large-scale studies as an applicable instrument for measuring health-related quality of life. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Tunisian version of the SF-12. A stratified representative sample (N = 3,582) of the general Tunisian population aged 18 years and over was interviewed. SF-12 summary scores were derived using the standard US algorithm. Factor analysis was used to confirm the hypothesized component structure of the SF-12 items. Reliability was estimated using internal consistency, and construct validity was investigated with "known groups" validity testing and via convergent and divergent validity. SF-12 summary scores distinguished well, and in the expected manner, between groups of respondents on the basis of gender, age, education and socioeconomic status, thus providing evidence of construct validity. Mean scores in the total sample were 50.11 (SD 8.53) for the physical component summary (PCS) score and 47.96 (SD 9.82) for the mental component summary (MCS) score. The results showed satisfactory internal consistency and acceptable convergent validity for both summary scores. Cronbach's α coefficient for PCS-12 and MCS-12 was 0.73 and 0.72, respectively. Known groups comparison showed that the SF-12 discriminated well between groups of respondents on the basis of gender, age, education and socioeconomic status. In addition, no floor or ceiling effects at baseline were observed. The PCA confirmed the two-factor structure of the SF-12 items. Items belonging to the physical component correlated more strongly with the PCS-12 than those with the MCS-12. Similarly, items belonging to the mental component correlated more strongly with the MCS-12 than those with the PCS-12. The findings suggest that the SF-12 appears to be a valid and reliable measure that can be used for measuring of population health
ARCPHdb: A comprehensive protein database for SF1 and SF2 helicase from archaea.
Moukhtar, Mirna; Chaar, Wafi; Abdel-Razzak, Ziad; Khalil, Mohamad; Taha, Samir; Chamieh, Hala
2017-01-01
Superfamily 1 and Superfamily 2 helicases, two of the largest helicase protein families, play vital roles in many biological processes including replication, transcription and translation. Study of helicase proteins in the model microorganisms of archaea have largely contributed to the understanding of their function, architecture and assembly. Based on a large phylogenomics approach, we have identified and classified all SF1 and SF2 protein families in ninety five sequenced archaea genomes. Here we developed an online webserver linked to a specialized protein database named ARCPHdb to provide access for SF1 and SF2 helicase families from archaea. ARCPHdb was implemented using MySQL relational database. Web interfaces were developed using Netbeans. Data were stored according to UniProt accession numbers, NCBI Ref Seq ID, PDB IDs and Entrez Databases. A user-friendly interactive web interface has been developed to browse, search and download archaeal helicase protein sequences, their available 3D structure models, and related documentation available in the literature provided by ARCPHdb. The database provides direct links to matching external databases. The ARCPHdb is the first online database to compile all protein information on SF1 and SF2 helicase from archaea in one platform. This database provides essential resource information for all researchers interested in the field. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Crystal structure and functional characterization of SF216 from Shigella flexneri.
Kim, Ha-Neul; Seok, Seung-Hyeon; Lee, Yoo-Sup; Won, Hyung-Sik; Seo, Min-Duk
2017-11-01
Shigella flexneri is a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium that causes highly infectious bacterial dysentery in humans. Here, we solved the crystal structure of SF216, a hypothetical protein from the S. flexneri 5a strain M90T, at 1.7 Å resolution. The crystal structure of SF216 represents a homotrimer stabilized by intersubunit interactions and ion-mediated electrostatic interactions. Each subunit consists of three β-strands and five α-helices with the β-β-β-α-α-α-α-α topology. Based on the structural information, we also demonstrate that SF216 shows weak ribonuclease activity by a fluorescence quenching assay. Furthermore, we identify potential druggable pockets (putative hot spots) on the surface of the SF216 structure by computational mapping. © 2017 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.
Kordi Yoosefinejad, Amin; Motealleh, Alireza; Babakhani, Mohammad
2017-05-01
The Functional index of hand osteoarthritis (FIHOA) is a commonly used patient-reported outcome questionnaire designed to measure function in patients with hand osteoarthritis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the FIHOA. The Persian-translated version of FIHOA was administered to 72 native Persian-speaking patients in Iran with hand osteoarthritis. Thirty-six of the patients completed the questionnaire on two occasions 1 week apart. The physical component of the SF-36 and a numerical rating scale were used to evaluate the construct validity of the Persian version of FIHOA. Internal consistency was high (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89). Test-retest reliability for the total score was excellent (weighted kappa = 0.89, 95% CI 0.79-0.94). A significant positive correlation between total FIHOA score and numerical rating scale (r = 0.70) and a significant negative correlation between total FIHOA score and the physical component scale of the SF-36 (r = -0.76) were observed. The Persian version of the FIHOA showed adequate validity and reliability to evaluate functional disability in Persian-speaking patients with hand osteoarthritis.
Romero-Zurita, Alejandro; Carbonell-Baeza, Ana; Aparicio, Virginia A; Ruiz, Jonatan R; Tercedor, Pablo; Delgado-Fernández, Manuel
2012-01-01
Background. The purpose was to analyze the effects of Tai-Chi training in women with fibromyalgia (FM). Methods. Thirty-two women with FM (mean age, 51.4 ± 6.8 years) attended to Tai-Chi intervention 3 sessions weekly for 28 weeks. The outcome measures were: tenderness, body composition, functional capacity and psychological outcomes (Fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ), Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36)). Results. Patients showed improvements on pain threshold, total number of tender points and algometer score (all P < 0.001). The intervention was effective on 6-min walk (P = 0.006), back scratch (P = 0.002), handgrip strength (P = 0.006), chair stand, chair sit & reach, 8 feet up & go and blind flamingo tests (all P < 0.001). Tai-Chi group improved the FIQ total score (P < 0.001) and six subscales: stiffness (P = 0.005), pain, fatigue, morning tiredness, anxiety, and depression (all P < 0.001). The intervention was also effective in six SF-36 subscales: bodily pain (P = 0.003), vitality (P = 0.018), physical functioning, physical role, general health, and mental health (all P < 0.001). Conclusions. A 28-week Tai-Chi intervention showed improvements on pain, functional capacity, symptomatology and psychological outcomes in female FM patients.
Romero-Zurita, Alejandro; Carbonell-Baeza, Ana; Aparicio, Virginia A.; Ruiz, Jonatan R.; Tercedor, Pablo; Delgado-Fernández, Manuel
2012-01-01
Background. The purpose was to analyze the effects of Tai-Chi training in women with fibromyalgia (FM). Methods. Thirty-two women with FM (mean age, 51.4 ± 6.8 years) attended to Tai-Chi intervention 3 sessions weekly for 28 weeks. The outcome measures were: tenderness, body composition, functional capacity and psychological outcomes (Fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ), Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36)). Results. Patients showed improvements on pain threshold, total number of tender points and algometer score (all P < 0.001). The intervention was effective on 6-min walk (P = 0.006), back scratch (P = 0.002), handgrip strength (P = 0.006), chair stand, chair sit & reach, 8 feet up & go and blind flamingo tests (all P < 0.001). Tai-Chi group improved the FIQ total score (P < 0.001) and six subscales: stiffness (P = 0.005), pain, fatigue, morning tiredness, anxiety, and depression (all P < 0.001). The intervention was also effective in six SF-36 subscales: bodily pain (P = 0.003), vitality (P = 0.018), physical functioning, physical role, general health, and mental health (all P < 0.001). Conclusions. A 28-week Tai-Chi intervention showed improvements on pain, functional capacity, symptomatology and psychological outcomes in female FM patients. PMID:22649476
Dawes, Piers; Cruickshanks, Karen J; Fischer, Mary E; Klein, Barbara E K; Klein, Ronald; Nondahl, David M
2015-01-01
To clarify the impact of hearing aids on mental health, social engagement, cognitive function, and physical health outcomes in older adults with hearing impairment. We assessed hearing handicap (hearing handicap inventory for the elderly; HHIE-S), cognition (mini mental state exam, trail making, auditory verbal learning, digit-symbol substitution, verbal fluency, incidence of cognitive impairment), physical health (SF-12 physical component, basic and instrumental activities of daily living, mortality), social engagement (hours per week spent in solitary activities), and mental health (SF-12 mental component) at baseline, five years prior to baseline, and five and 11 years after baseline. Community-dwelling older adults with hearing impairment (N = 666) from the epidemiology of hearing loss study cohort. There were no significant differences between hearing-aid users and non-users in cognitive, social engagement, or mental health outcomes at any time point. Aided HHIE-S was significantly better than unaided HHIE-S. At 11 years hearing-aid users had significantly better SF-12 physical health scores (46.2 versus 41.2; p = 0.03). There was no difference in incidence of cognitive impairment or mortality. There was no evidence that hearing aids promote cognitive function, mental health, or social engagement. Hearing aids may reduce hearing handicap and promote better physical health.
[Measuring health-related quality of life with the SF-8. Normal sample of the German population].
Ellert, U; Lampert, T; Ravens-Sieberer, U
2005-12-01
The SF-8, a relatively new instrument for measuring health-related quality of life, was used in the German National Telephone Health Survey 2003. The SF-8 provides results which are comparable to those of the SF-36, the instrument most commonly used internationally. The German National Telephone Health Survey provides nationally representative data for the residential population in Germany aged 18 and older. In addition to the measurement of health-related quality of life, comprehensive information on chronic illnesses and complaints, health care needs, utilisation of health care, risk factors, risk behaviour and social status is also collected, making differentiated analyses possible. According to the data collected, men rate their quality of life in all dimensions higher than women. With increasing age, quality of life for both men and women decreases in the physical dimensions, while increasing in the mental health dimensions. Apart from chronic disease and pain having a negative impact on health-related quality of life, social differences are also observable, in that worse health-related quality of life is reported by respondents with lower socioeconomic status.
Yan, Dong; Perriman, Rhonda; Igel, Haller; Howe, Kenneth J.; Neville, Megan; Ares, Manuel
1998-01-01
A screen for suppressors of a U2 snRNA mutation identified CUS2, an atypical member of the RNA recognition motif (RRM) family of RNA binding proteins. CUS2 protein is associated with U2 RNA in splicing extracts and interacts with PRP11, a subunit of the conserved splicing factor SF3a. Absence of CUS2 renders certain U2 RNA folding mutants lethal, arguing that a normal activity of CUS2 is to help refold U2 into a structure favorable for its binding to SF3b and SF3a prior to spliceosome assembly. Both CUS2 function in vivo and the in vitro RNA binding activity of CUS2 are disrupted by mutation of the first RRM, suggesting that rescue of misfolded U2 involves the direct binding of CUS2. Human Tat-SF1, reported to stimulate Tat-specific, transactivating region-dependent human immunodeficiency virus transcription in vitro, is structurally similar to CUS2. Anti-Tat-SF1 antibodies coimmunoprecipitate SF3a66 (SAP62), the human homolog of PRP11, suggesting that Tat-SF1 has a parallel function in splicing in human cells. PMID:9710584
Shou, Juan; Ren, Limin; Wang, Haitang; Yan, Fei; Cao, Xiaoyun; Wang, Hui; Wang, Zhiliang; Zhu, Shanzhu; Liu, Yao
2016-04-01
The 12-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) is the abridged practical version of SF-36. This cross-sectional study was aimed to assess the reliability and validity of SF-12 for the health status of Chinese community elderly population. The Chinese community elderly people in Xujiahui district of Shanghai were investigated. The internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and split-half reliability coefficients. Construct validity was analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Spearman's correlation coefficient (ρ) was used for the evaluation of criterion, convergent, and discriminant validity with Spearman's ρ ≥ 0.4 as satisfactory. Comparisons of the SF-12 summary scores among populations that differed in demographics were performed for discriminant validity. Total 1343 individuals aged ≥60 and <85 years old (response rate: 91.3 %) were analyzed. The Cronbach's α value (0.910) and the split-half reliability coefficient (0.812) reflected satisfactory internal consistency reliability of SF-12. EFA extracted a two-factor model (physical and mental health). About 60.7 % of the total variance was explained by the two factors. CFA showed that the two-factor solution provided a good fit to the data. Good convergent validity and discriminant validity of SF-12 were proved by the correction analyses (Spearman's ρ > 0.4) and the comparisons of the SF-12 summary scores among populations (P < 0.05). SF-12 summary scores were significantly correlated with the SF-36 summary scores (Spearman's ρ > 0.4, P < 0.05). In conclusion, SF-12 had satisfactory reliability and validity in measuring health status of Chinese community elderly population in Xujiahui district of Shanghai.
Hagan, Kaitlin A; Chiuve, Stephanie E; Stampfer, Meir J; Katz, Jeffrey N; Grodstein, Francine
2016-07-01
Physical function is integral to healthy aging, in particular as a core component of mobility and independent living in older adults, and is a strong predictor of mortality. Limited research has examined the role of diet, which may be an important strategy to prevent or delay a decline in physical function with aging. We prospectively examined the association between the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI-2010), a measure of diet quality, with incident impairment in physical function among 54,762 women from the Nurses' Health Study. Physical function was measured by the Medical Outcomes Short Form-36 (SF-36) physical function scale and was administered every 4 y from 1992 to 2008. Cumulative average diet was assessed using food frequency questionnaires, administered approximately every 4 y. We used multivariable Cox proportional hazards models to estimate the HRs of incident impairment of physical function. Participants in higher quintiles of the AHEI-2010, indicating a healthier diet, were less likely to have incident physical impairment than were participants in lower quintiles (P-trend < 0.001). The multivariable-adjusted HR of physical impairment for those in the top compared with those in the bottom quintile of the AHEI-2010 was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.84, 0.90). For individual AHEI-2010 components, higher intake of vegetables (P-trend = 0.003) and fruits (P-trend = 0.02); lower intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (P-trend < 0.001), trans fats (P-trend = 0.03), and sodium (P-trend < 0.001); and moderate alcohol intake (P-trend < 0.001) were each significantly associated with reduced rates of incident physical impairment. Among top contributors to the food components of the AHEI-2010, the strongest relations were found for increased intake of oranges, orange juice, apples and pears, romaine or leaf lettuce, and walnuts. However, associations with each component and with specific foods were generally weaker than the overall score, indicating that overall diet
Hodkinson, B; Musenge, E; Ally, M; Meyer, P W A; Anderson, R; Tikly, M
2012-10-01
The severity and predictors of functional disability and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a cohort of South Africans with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were investigated. Changes in the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) following 12 months of traditional disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) were studied in previously DMARD-naïve adults with disease duration ≤ 2 years. The majority of the 171 patients were female (82%), Black Africans (89%) with a mean (SD) symptom duration of 11.6 (7.0) months. In the 134 patients seen at 12 months, there were significant improvements in the HAQ and all domains of the SF-36 but 92 (69%) still had substantial functional disability (HAQ > 0.5) and 89 (66%) had suboptimal mental health [SF-36 mental composite score (MCS) < 66.6]. Multivariate analysis showed that female sex (p = 0.05) and high baseline HAQ score (p < 0.01) predicted substantial functional disability at 12 months. Unemployment (p = 0.03), high baseline pain (p = 0.02), and HAQ score (p = 0.04) predicted suboptimal mental health, with a trend towards a low level of schooling being significant (p = 0.08). Early RA has a broad impact on HRQoL in indigent South Africans, with a large proportion of patients still showing substantial functional disability and suboptimal mental health despite 12 months of DMARD therapy. Further research is needed to establish the role of interventions including psychosocial support, rehabilitation programmes, and biological therapy to improve physical function and HRQoL in this population.
Chum, Antony; Skosireva, Anna; Tobon, Juliana; Hwang, Stephen
2016-01-01
Background Self-reported health measures are important indicators used by clinicians and researchers for the evaluation of health interventions, outcome assessment of clinical studies, and identification of health needs to improve resource allocation. However, the application of self-reported health measures relies on developing reliable and valid instruments that are suitable across diverse populations. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the construct validity of the SF-12v.2, an instrument for measuring self-rated physical and mental health, for homeless adults with mental illness. Various interventions have been aimed at improving the health of homeless people with mental illness, and the development of valid instruments to evaluate these interventions is imperative. Study Design We measured self-rated mental and physical health from a quota sample of 575 homeless people with mental illness using the SF-12v2, EQ-5D, Colorado Symptoms Index, and physical/mental health visual analogue scales. We examined the construct validity of the SF-12v2 through confirmatory factor analyses (CFA), and using ANOVA/correlation analyses to compare the SF-12v2 to the other instruments to ascertain discriminant/convergent validity. Results Our CFA showed that the measurement properties of the original SF-12v2 model had a mediocre fit with our empirical data (χ2 = 193.6, df = 43, p < .0001, CFI = 0.85, NFI = 0.83, RMSEA = 0.08). We demonstrate that changes based on theoretical rationale and previous studies can significantly improve the model, achieving an excellent fit in our final model (χ2 = 160.6, df = 48, p < .0001, CFI = 0.95, NFI = 0.95, RMSEA = 0.06). Our CFA results suggest that an alternative scoring method based on the new model may optimize health status measurement of a homeless population. Despite these issues, convergent and discriminant validity of the SF-12v2 (scored based on the original model) was supported through multiple comparisons with other
Chum, Antony; Skosireva, Anna; Tobon, Juliana; Hwang, Stephen
2016-01-01
Self-reported health measures are important indicators used by clinicians and researchers for the evaluation of health interventions, outcome assessment of clinical studies, and identification of health needs to improve resource allocation. However, the application of self-reported health measures relies on developing reliable and valid instruments that are suitable across diverse populations. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the construct validity of the SF-12v.2, an instrument for measuring self-rated physical and mental health, for homeless adults with mental illness. Various interventions have been aimed at improving the health of homeless people with mental illness, and the development of valid instruments to evaluate these interventions is imperative. We measured self-rated mental and physical health from a quota sample of 575 homeless people with mental illness using the SF-12v2, EQ-5D, Colorado Symptoms Index, and physical/mental health visual analogue scales. We examined the construct validity of the SF-12v2 through confirmatory factor analyses (CFA), and using ANOVA/correlation analyses to compare the SF-12v2 to the other instruments to ascertain discriminant/convergent validity. Our CFA showed that the measurement properties of the original SF-12v2 model had a mediocre fit with our empirical data (χ2 = 193.6, df = 43, p < .0001, CFI = 0.85, NFI = 0.83, RMSEA = 0.08). We demonstrate that changes based on theoretical rationale and previous studies can significantly improve the model, achieving an excellent fit in our final model (χ2 = 160.6, df = 48, p < .0001, CFI = 0.95, NFI = 0.95, RMSEA = 0.06). Our CFA results suggest that an alternative scoring method based on the new model may optimize health status measurement of a homeless population. Despite these issues, convergent and discriminant validity of the SF-12v2 (scored based on the original model) was supported through multiple comparisons with other instruments. Our study
Quality of life of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: from adolescence to young men.
Lue, Yi-Jing; Chen, Shun-Sheng; Lu, Yen-Mou
2017-07-01
This study investigated quality of life (QOL) in adolescent and young men with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Health-related QOL and global QOL were assessed with the Short Form 36 (SF-36) and World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF). Associations between functional status and QOL were assessed. All domains of the SF-36 were below Taiwan norms (effect size: -14.2 to -0.5), especially Physical Function, Role Physical, and Social Function. Three of the four domains of the WHOQOL-BREF were below Taiwan norms (effect size: -2.0 to -0.7). The Physical Function of the SF-36 was moderately correlated with functional status (mobility, basic activities of daily living, and arm function). The Social Function of the SF-36 and Social Relationships of the WHOQOL-BREF were also moderately correlated with functional status (impairment, basic activities of daily living, and arm function). The adolescent and young men with DMD had poor health-related and global QOL. Poor QOL was related to both physical condition and social health. We suggest that rehabilitation programs focus on using assistive devices to facilitate arm function and encouraging participation in social activities to improve the QOL of patients with DMD. Implications for rehabilitation Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive muscle weakness disease that not only impacts physical health but also leads to poor quality of life in many domains. A valuable rehabilitation goal for patients with DMD is to encourage participation in social activities. Medical care and educational programs should plan a formal transition processes for patients with DMD from pediatric to adult care to maximum their quality of life. Arm function is associated with many domains of global quality of life, so a key element in improving quality of life may be to improve arm function.
Determining the Minimal Clinically Important Difference for 6-Minute Walk Distance in Fibromyalgia.
Kaleth, Anthony S; Slaven, James E; Ang, Dennis C
2016-10-01
The aim of this study was to estimate the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for 6-min walk distance (6MWD) in patients with fibromyalgia. Data from a recently completed trial that included 187 patients who completed the 6-min walk test, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), and Short-Form 36 (SF36) at 12 and 36 wks were used to examine longitudinal changes in 6MWD. An anchor-based approach that used linear regression analyses was used to determine the MCID for 6MWD, using the total FIQ score (FIQ-Total) and SF36-physical function domain as clinical anchors. The mean (SD) change in 6MWD from baseline to week 36 was 34.4 (65.2) m (P < 0.001). The anchor-based MCIDs for the 6MWD were 156 and 167 m for the FIQ and SF36-physical function domain, respectively. These MCIDs correspond with clinically meaningful improvements in FIQ (14% reduction) and SF36-physical function domain (10-point increase). The MCID for 6MWD in patients with fibromyalgia was 156 to 167 m. These findings provide the first evidence of the change in 6MWD that is perceived by patients to be clinically meaningful. Further research using other MCID calculation methods is needed to refine estimates of the MCID for 6MWD in patients with fibromyalgia.
Rasmussen, Marianne Uggen; Amris, Kirstine; Rydahl-Hansen, Susan; Danneskiold-Samsoe, Bente; Mortensen, Erik Lykke; Christensen, Robin; H Sjölund, Bengt
2017-08-01
To examine the hypothesis that change in pain self-efficacy is associated with observed and self-reported activity, pain intensity, catastrophizing, and quality of life after multi-disciplinary rehabilitation of fibromyalgia patients. In-depth analyses of secondary outcomes of a randomized-controlled trial. Women (N = 187) with fibromyalgia. Outcomes were Pain Self-Efficacy, Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS), SF-36 Physical Function (SF-36-PF), pain intensity, and SF-36 Mental Composite Score (SF-36-MCS) to assess quality of life and pain catastrophizing. Individual and group associations between outcomes were examined. Individual changes in pain self-efficacy were not associated with changes in observed activity: AMPS motor (r s = 0.08, p = 0.27) and process (r s = 0.12, p = 0.11), not even in those patients with a clinically relevant improvement in observed functioning (38.5%), and only weakly or moderatly with changes in SF-36-PF; (r s = 0.31, p < 0.0001), SF-36-MSC; (r s = 0.41, p < 0.0001), and pain catastrophizing (r s = -0.31, p < 0.0001). No differences in pain self-efficacy were observed between the rehabilitated group and controls (difference: 1.61; 95% CI: -0.84 to 4.06; p = 0.24). However, a subgroup (34%) had a clinically relevant improvement in pain self-efficacy. This group was younger (mean age 41.4 vs. 45.8, p = 0.01), more recently diagnosed (1.8 vs. 2.8 years, p = 0.003), but had an unresolved welfare situation (59% vs. 40%, p = 0.02). The main hypothesis was falsified, as there was no association between pain self-efficacy and actual performance of activity. The relation to functioning may be limited to perceived, cognitive-emotional aspects, as indicated by the weak to moderate correlations to the self-reported measures. Implications for Rehabilitation Improvement in observed activity post multi-disciplinary rehabilitation was not associated with change in pain self
The Short Form 36 English and Chinese versions were equivalent in a multiethnic Asian population.
Tan, Maudrene L S; Wee, Hwee-Lin; Lee, Jeannette; Ma, Stefan; Heng, Derrick; Tai, E-Shyong; Thumboo, Julian
2013-07-01
The primary aim of this article was to evaluate measurement equivalence of the English and Chinese versions of the Short Form 36 version 2 (SF-36v2) and Short Form 6D (SF-6D). In this cross-sectional study, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was measured from 4,973 ethnic Chinese subjects using the SF-36v2 questionnaire. Measurement equivalence of domain and utility scores for the English- and Chinese-language SF-36v2 and SF-6D were assessed by examining the score differences between the two languages using linear regression models, with and without adjustment for known determinants of HRQoL. Equivalence was achieved if the 90% confidence interval (CI) of the differences in scores, due to language, fell within a predefined equivalence margin. Compared with English-speaking Chinese, Chinese-speaking Chinese were significantly older (47.6 vs. 55.5 years). All SF-36v2 domains were equivalent after adjusting for known HRQoL. SF-6D utility/items had the 90% CI either fully or partially overlap their predefined equivalence margin. The English- and Chinese-language versions of the SF-36v2 and SF-6D demonstrated equivalence. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Vaughan, Leslie; Leng, Xiaoyan; La Monte, Michael J; Tindle, Hilary A; Cochrane, Barbara B; Shumaker, Sally A
2016-03-01
We examined physical functioning (PF) trajectories (maintaining, slowly declining, and rapidly declining) spanning 15 years in older women aged 65-80 and protective factors that predicted better current levels and less decline in functional independence outcomes after age 80. Women's Health Initiative extension participants who met criteria (enrolled in either the clinical trial or observational study cohort, >80 years at the data release cutoff, PF survey data from initial enrollment to age 80, and functional independence survey data after age 80) were included in these analyses (mean [SD] age = 84.0 [1.4] years; N = 10,478). PF was measured with the SF-36 (mean = 4.9 occasions). Functional independence was measured by self-reported level of dependence in basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADLs and IADLs) (mean = 3.4 and 3.3 occasions). Maintaining consistent PF in older adulthood extends functional independence in ADL and IADL in late-life. Protective factors shared by ADL and IADL include maintaining PF over time, self-reported excellent or very good health, no history of hip fracture after age 55, and no history of cardiovascular disease. Better IADL function is uniquely predicted by a body mass index less than 25 and no depression. Less ADL and IADL decline is predicted by better self-reported health, and less IADL decline is uniquely predicted by having no history of hip fracture after age 55. Maintaining or improving PF and preventing injury and disease in older adulthood (ages 65-80) has far-reaching implications for improving late-life (after age 80) functional independence. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Roelen, Corné; van Rhenen, Willem; Schaufeli, Wilmar; van der Klink, Jac; Magerøy, Nils; Moen, Bente; Bjorvatn, Bjørn; Pallesen, Ståle
2014-08-01
To investigate whether health-related functioning mediates the effect of psychological job demands on sickness absence in nurses. Nurses face high job demands that can have adverse health effects resulting in sickness absence. Prospective cohort study with 1-year follow-up. Data for 2964 Norwegian nurses were collected in the period 2008-2010. At baseline, psychological job demands were measured with the Demand-Control-Support Questionnaire. Health-related functioning was assessed by the Mental Composite Score and the Physical Composite Score of the SF-12 Health Survey (2nd version). Sickness absence (no = 0, yes = 1) was self-reported at 1-year follow-up. Interaction and mediation analyses were conducted stratified by tenure (<1-year, 1-2 years, 3-6 years, >6 years) as a registered nurse. A total of 2180 nurses (74%) with complete data were eligible for analysis. A significant three-way interaction between job demands, control and support was found in newly licensed nurses (tenure <1-year). Baseline psychological job demands were positively associated with sickness absence at 1-year follow-up. This association was substantially weakened when Mental Composite Score and Physical Composite Score were introduced as mediator variables, indicating a partial mediation effect that was particularly pronounced in newly licensed nurses. Psychological job demands did not modify the effect of health-related functioning on sickness absence. Both mental and physical health-related functioning mediated between psychological job demands and sickness absence. Nurse managers should pay attention to health-related functioning, because poor health-related functioning may predict sickness absence, especially in newly licensed nurses. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Hu, Bo; Skou, Søren Thorgaard; Wise, Barton L; Williams, Glenn N; Nevitt, Michael C; Segal, Neil A
2018-01-31
To determine the association between quadriceps rate of force development (RFD) and decline in self-reported physical function and objective measures of physical performance. Longitudinal cohort study. Community-based sample from 4 urban areas. Osteoarthritis Initiative participants with or at risk for knee osteoarthritis, who had no history of knee/hip replacement, knee injury, or rheumatoid arthritis (N=2630). Not applicable. Quadriceps RFD (N/s) was measured during isometric strength testing. Worsening physical function was defined as the minimal clinically important difference for worsening self-reported Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) physical function subscale score, 20-m walk time, and repeated chair stand time over 36 months. Compared with the slowest tertile of RFD, the fastest tertile had a lower risk for worsening of WOMAC physical function subscale score at 36-month follow-up, with an odds ratio (OR) of .68 (95% confidence interval [CI], .51-.92) after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, depression, history of chronic diseases, and knee pain. In women, in comparison with the slowest tertile of RFD, the fastest tertile had a lower risk for worsening of WOMAC physical function subscale score at 36-month follow-up, with an adjusted OR of .57 (95% CI, .38-.86). This decreased risk did not reach statistical significance in men (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.52-1.27). No statistically significant associations were detected between baseline RFD and walk or chair stand times. Our results indicate that higher RFD is associated with decreased risk for worsening self-reported physical function but not with decreased risk for worsening of physical performance. Copyright © 2018 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Neumann, Lily; Lerner, Ella; Glazer, Yael; Bolotin, Arkady; Shefer, Alexander; Buskila, Dan
2008-12-01
We examined the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and measures of tenderness, quality of life, and physical functioning in female fibromyalgia (FMS) patients. A random sample of 100 female FMS patients from a database of 550 FMS individuals was interviewed and assessed according to a structured questionnaire that included FMS-related symptoms, measures of tenderness (point count and dolorimetry), quality of life (SF-36), physical functioning, and BMI. Weight was defined as normal, overweight, and obesity according to BMI. Twenty-seven percent of the FMS patients had normal BMI, 28% were overweight, and 45% were obese. BMI was negatively correlated with quality of life (r = -0.205, P = 0.044) and tenderness threshold (r = -0.238, P = 0.021) and positively correlated with physical dysfunctioning (r = 0.202, P = 0.047) and point count (r = 0.261, P = 0.011). Obese FMS patients display higher pain sensitivity and lower levels of quality of life. In designing studies that explore factors affecting tenderness, BMI should be included in addition to sex, age, etc.
Dawes, Piers; Cruickshanks, Karen J.; Fischer, Mary E.; Klein, Barbara E.K.; Klein, Ronald; Nondahl, David M.
2016-01-01
Objective To clarify the impact of hearing aids on mental health, social engagement, cognitive function, and physical health outcomes in older adults with hearing impairment. Design We assessed hearing handicap (Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly; HHIE-S), cognition (Mini Mental State Exam, Trail Making, Auditory Verbal Learning, Digit-Symbol Substitution, Verbal Fluency, incidence of cognitive impairment), physical health (SF-12 physical component, basic and instrumental activities of daily living, mortality), social engagement (hours per week spent in solitary activities) and mental health (SF-12 mental component) at baseline, 5 years prior to baseline, and 5 and 11 years after baseline. Study sample Community-dwelling older adults with hearing impairment (N=666) from the Epidemiology of Hearing Loss Study cohort. Results There were no significant differences between hearing aid users and non-users in cognitive, social engagement or mental health outcomes at any time point. Aided HHIE-S was significantly better than unaided HHIE-S. At 11 years hearing aid users had significantly better SF-12 physical health scores (46.2 versus 41.2; p=0.03). There was no difference in incidence of cognitive impairment or mortality. Conclusion There was no evidence that hearing aids promote cognitive function, mental health, or social engagement. Hearing aids may reduce hearing handicap and promote better physical health. PMID:26140300
Abizanda, Pedro; López, Mateo Díez; García, Victoria Pérez; Estrella, Juan de Dios; da Silva González, Álvaro; Vilardell, Núria Barcons; Torres, Krysmarú Araujo
2015-05-01
The objective of this study was to assess the effects of a hyperproteic, hypercaloric oral nutritional supplement with prebiotic fiber, vitamin D, and calcium, plus a standardized physical intervention, in the functional status, strength, nutritional status, and quality of life of frail institutionalized older adults. Multicentric prospective observational study under usual clinical practice conditions. Four nursing homes from Burgos (2), Albacete, and Madrid, Spain. Participants included 91 institutionalized older adults (age ≥70), able to walk 50 m, and meeting at least 3 of the Fried frailty phenotype criteria. Daily intake of two 200-mL bottles of an oral nutritional supplement, each bottle containing 300 kcal, 20 g protein, 3 g fiber, 500 IU vitamin D, and 480 mg calcium, plus a standardized physical exercise training consisting of flexibility, balance, and strengthening exercises for arms and legs, 5 days per week. Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Short-Form-Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument (SF-LLFDI) function subscale, handgrip strength, EuroQoL-5 Dimensions visual analogic scale (EQ5DVAS), weight, body mass index (BMI), and Short-Form Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA-SF) at baseline and 6 and 12 weeks. Forty-eight participants (52.7%) improved at least 1 point in the SPPB at week 6, and 44 (48.4%) did so at week 12; 39 participants (42.9%) improved at least 2 points in the SF-LLFDI at week 6, and 46 (50.5%) at week 12. Participants improved their quality of life measured with the EQ5DVAS by 6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3%-10%) at week 6, and by 5% (95% CI 0%-10%) at week 12. They also improved their nutritional status (weight gain, BMI increase, and higher MNA-SF scores at 6- and 12-week follow-up). This improvement was higher in participants with more frailty criteria, lower functional level, lower vitamin D levels, and poorer nutritional status. A 12-week intervention with oral nutritional supplementation plus physical
Racial differences in health-related quality of life and functional ability in patients with gout.
Singh, Jasvinder A; Bharat, Aseem; Khanna, Dinesh; Aquino-Beaton, Cleopatra; Persselin, Jay E; Duffy, Erin; Elashoff, David; Khanna, Puja P
2017-01-01
To compare the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and the functional ability by race in patients with gout. In a 9-month prospective cohort multicentre study, patients with gout self-reported race, dichotomized as Caucasian or African American (others excluded). We calculated HRQOL/function scores adjusted for age, study site and college education for Short Form-36 (SF-36; generic HRQOL), Gout Impact Scale (GIS; disease-specific HRQOL) and HAQ-disability index (HAQ-DI; functional ability). Longitudinally adjusted scores were computed using multivariable mixed-effect regression models with a random patient effect and fixed sequential visit effect (3-monthly visits). Compared with Caucasians (n = 107), African Americans (n = 60) with gout were younger (61.1 vs 67.3 years) and had higher median baseline serum urate (9.0 vs 7.9 mg/dl) (P < 0.01). African Americans with gout had worse HRQOL scores on three SF-36 domains, the mental component summary (MCS) and two of the five GIS scales than Caucasians [mean (se); P ⩽ 0.02 for all]: SF-36 mental health, 39.7 (1.1) vs 45.2 (0.9); SF-36 role emotional, 42.1 (4.2) vs 51.4 (4.2); SF-36 social functioning, 36.0 (1.1) vs 40.0 (0.9) (P = 0.04); SF-36 MCS, 43.2 (3.1) vs 50.0 (3.2); GIS unmet treatment need, 37.6 (1.6) vs 31.5 (1.4); and GIS concern during attacks, 53.3 (3.7) vs 47.4 (3.7). Differences between the respective HAQ-DI total scores were not statistically significant; 0.98 (0.1) vs 0.80 (1.0) (P = 0.11). Racial differences in SF-36 mental health, role emotional and MCS scales exceeded, and for HAQ-DI approached, the minimal clinically important difference thresholds. African Americans with gout have significantly worse HRQOL compared with Caucasians. Further research is necessary in the form of studies targeted at African Americans on how best to improve these outcomes. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Rheumatology 2016. This work is written by US Government employees and
Sturges, W. T. [School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom; Wallington, T. J. [Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan; Hurley, M. D. [Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan; Shine, K. P. [Department of Meteorology, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom; Sihra, K. [Department of Meteorology, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom; Engel, A. [Institute for Meteorology and Geophysics, Johann Wolfgang Goethe University of Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; Oram, D. E. [School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom; Penkett, S. A. [School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom; Mulvaney, R. [British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environmental Research Council, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Brenninkmeijer, C A. M. [Atmospheric Chemistry Division, Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Mainz, Germany
2000-10-01
The sampling and analytical methods are described more fully in Sturges et al. (2000). In summary, air samples were pumped from consolidated deep snow (firn) at Dome Concordia (eastern Antarctica) in December 1998 and January 1999, from the surface to a depth of approximately 100 m. Air samples were analyzed with a gas chromatograph - mass spectrometer, with a detection limit of about 0.001 parts per trillion (ppt). A diffusive transport model was used to calculate the age of samples as a function of depth. Measurements of SF6 were used to determine the mean age of the firn air by comparison with extrapolated measurements from Cape Grim, Tasmania combined with estimates from industrial emissions (Maiss and Brenninkmeijer 1998, adapted by Sturges et al. 2000). Dates for SF5CF3 are different than for SF6 due to the lower diffusivity of SF5CF3: the SF6 ages were multiplied by the ratio of the free-air diffusion coefficient of SF5CF3 to that of SF6 (1.18). Free-air diffusion coefficients were determined by a semi-empirical formula based on molecular volumes (Fuller et al. 1966). Note that mean ages represent a very wide distribution of probable ages spanning many years, with an increasing spread of ages at increasing depth
Puhan, Milo A; Gaspoz, Jean-Michel; Bridevaux, Pierre-Olivier; Schindler, Christian; Ackermann-Liebrich, Ursula; Rochat, Thierry; Gerbase, Margaret W
2008-02-15
Few epidemiologic studies have assessed health-related quality of life (HRQL) of asthma patients from a general population and it is unclear which instrument is best suitable for this purpose. We investigated the validity of the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) and the SF-36 completed by individuals with asthma from the population-based SAPALDIA (Swiss study on air pollution and lung diseases in adults) cohort. The study included 258 participants with a physician-diagnosed asthma who had completed the AQLQ and SF-36. We assessed floor and ceiling effects, internal consistency reliability and cross-sectional validity with a priori hypotheses that correlations between the specific HRQL domains (e.g. "symptoms" or "physical functioning") and the corresponding external validation measures (respiratory symptoms, need for doctor visits, limitation in activities due to asthma and lung function) would capture similar aspects and be correlated moderately (> or = 0.3) to strongly (> or = 0.5), whereas non-corresponding domains be correlated weakly with each other (<0.3). The AQLQ showed pronounced ceiling effects with all median domain scores above 6 (scores varied from 1-7). For the SF-36, ceiling effects were present in 5 out of 8 domains. Cronbach's alpha was >0.7 for all AQLQ and SF-36 domains. Correlations between the AQLQ domains "respiratory symptoms", "activity limitation" and "environmental exposure", and the validation measures ranged from 0.29-0.57. Correlations between the "emotional function" domain and the validation measures were also in this range (0.31-0.55) and not as low as we hypothesized. For the SF-36, correlations between "physical functioning" and "role physical", and the validation measures ranged from 0.25-0.56, whereas "role emotional" and "mental health" correlated with these measures from 0.01-0.23. The AQLQ and the SF-36 showed fairly good internal consistency. Both instruments are limited by ceiling effects, but they appear less
Nichols, Thom R
The purpose of this study was to assess the Mental Health Component of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in community-dwelling persons with ostomies residing in the United States. Cross-sectional descriptive study. Two thousand three hundred twenty-nine participants completed the survey for a response rate of 14.9% and a margin of error of 2.03%. Study respondents were geographically distributed throughout the United States, representing all 50 states. Fifty-three percent of study respondents were male. Respondents had a median age of 65 years. Forty percent have colostomies, 44% are living with ileostomies, and 13% have urostomies. The remaining 3% are living with multiple stomas or they indicated that they were uncertain as to the type of stoma. The SF36v2 was used to assess HRQOL. This instrument was selected because it has the ability to measure HRQOL in a target population and it allows comparison with the general population. Potential participants were randomly selected from an electronic database of 15,591 persons with ostomies. They were contacted by e-mails and provided with an electronic nontransferable link to the survey. This is a secondary analysis of findings from the Mental Component Summary (MCS) of the SF36v2. Persons who have undergone ostomy surgery did not score as well as the general population when components of the MCS were compared. While overall differences were identified, they differed based on age and cumulative MCS score levels. Analysis of individuals found to have significant impairment in MCS scores (cumulative soccer <40) tended to report less negative response than persons with comparable scores in the general population. Analysis also revealed that respondents aged 55 years or older had mental component domain scores that remained with the normal range of the general population. In contrast, participants who were younger than 55 years had lower scores that the general population. The overall MCS score of community
Patient-based health status assessments in an outpatient psychiatry setting.
Adler, D A; Bungay, K M; Cynn, D J; Kosinski, M
2000-03-01
The reliability, validity, and feasibility of the routine use of a generic health status instrument, the Short-Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36), were examined in a psychiatric outpatient clinic of a general hospital. The sample comprised 411 patients referred to an outpatient psychiatry department between April 1994 and March 1995. They filled out the SF-36 along with their admission forms. Scores and reports were generated, and the results were returned to the charts and used at weekly clinical conference discussions. Feasibility was evaluated using subjective and objective data on administration of the instrument, its psychometric properties, and costs. Results from the outpatient psychiatry patients were compared with those from patients scheduled for elective surgery and a healthy normative sample. Routine administration of the SF-36 was successfully achieved with minimal resistance from staff and patients. The SF-36 provided reliable and valid data. As predicted, patients with emotional disorders scored lower, indicating more impairment, on scales measuring mental health than did the elective surgery patients and the normative sample. However, the psychiatric patients' scores on the physical health scale were lower than clinicians expected. Compared with the elective surgery patients, the psychiatric patients were less impaired on only the physical functioning and bodily pain scales; no difference was found between the two groups in role functioning due to physical problems. Routine use of the SF-36 in a general hospital psychiatric outpatient clinic was feasible, and the results were reliable, valid, and helpful to clinicians. Psychiatric patients' significantly lower scores in physical health and social and role functioning provided additional information about their difficulties.
Feys, Peter; Tytgat, Katrien; Gijbels, Domien; De Groote, Luc; Baert, Ilse; Van Asch, Paul
2013-01-01
Persons with MS (pwMS) in the community show reduced physical activity while studies demonstrated beneficial effects of exercise therapy in supervised settings. This study investigated, in pwMS living in the community, the effects of a 1-day education program about exercises and sports, on physical activity behavior and related outcome measures as self-efficacy, perceived walking ability, fatigue, perceived impact of MS and quality of life. PwMS attended an education day with theoretical and practical sessions that was organized by the Flemish MS Society and professional exercise experts. Forty-two participants immediately completed questionnaires as well as after three and six months. Overall disability and physical activity level were measured using PDSS (patient determined disease steps) and PASIPD (Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities) respectively. Other outcomes were the ESES, MSWS-12, MFIS, MSIS-29 and SF-36. Analyses of variance were performed in groups distinguished by self-reported disability level (PDDS ≤1; n = 24 and PDSS >1; n = 18). Groups differed significantly for perceived walking ability (PDDS,MSWS-12) and physical related-domains of MSIS-29 and SF-36, but not PASIPD. A trend towards significant group*time interaction effect was found for the PASIPD indicating, at 3 and 6 months, increased physical activity in the subgroup PDDS ≤1. For the MSIS-29, a significant time effect was found with reduced impact being largest for the more disabled group at 6 months. No changes were found in other outcome measures. An one-day education program had, depending on perceived disability level, some long-standing effects on physical activity and perceived impact of MS.
Hall, S E; Criddle, R A; Comito, T L; Prince, R L
1999-01-01
There have been several studies of the impact of vertebral osteoporotic fracture on the quality of life and functionality of individual subjects. To date, however, no direct comparisons with age-matched normal subjects without vertebral fracture have been made. The radiographs of 145 female clinic patients with vertebral fractures were reviewed by the study physicians. The controls were recruited from the electoral role and by media appeal. One hundred and sixty-seven women had radiographs taken to determine those without vertebral fracture. Fracture subjects and controls had to be ambulant and were excluded if they had significant radiologic evidence of degenerative disk or joint disease of the spine. One hundred cases and one hundred controls were matched by 5-year age groups. The number, position and severity of the vertebral fracture on the lateral radiographs of the cases was recorded. Quality of life was measured using the Short Form-36 (SF-36) (maximum score 100) and a utility score calculated from these results (maximum score 1). Two measurements of functionality were employed: the Modified Barthel Index (MBI) to assess the activities of daily living (maximum score 100) and the Timed 'Up & Go' (TUG) that measured the time taken for the subject to rise from sitting in a chair, walk 3 m along a line, return to the chair and sit down. The fracture subjects had 2.9 +/- 1.6 (mean +/- SD) vertebral fractures and the time since last fracture was 5.1 +/- 4.8 years. The SF-36 physical function component summary index results were: fracture subjects 36 +/- 11, controls 48 +/- 9 (p < 0.001). The SF-36 mental health component summary index results were: fracture subjects 50 +/- 11, controls 54 +/- 8 (p < 0.05). The utility scores were: fracture subjects 0.64 +/- 0.08, controls 0.72 +/- 0.07 (p < 0.001). The MBI results were: fracture subjects 97 +/- 5, controls 99 +/- 1 (p < 0.01). The TUG results were: fracture subjects 13.8 +/- 7.3 s, controls 10.1 +/- 4.1 s (p < 0
Batsis, J A; Zbehlik, A J; Barre, L K; Bynum, J P W; Pidgeon, D; Bartels, S J
2015-01-01
Older adults with obesity are at risk for osteoarthritis (OA) and are predisposed to functional decline and disability. We examined the association between obesity and disability, physical activity, and quality of life at 6 years. Using data from the longitudinal Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI), we analysed older adults (age ≥ 60 years) with a body mass index (BMI) at baseline ≥ 18.5 kg/m(2) (n = 2378) using standard BMI categories. Outcomes were assessed at the 6-year follow-up and included: the Late-Life Function and Disability Index (LLDI), the 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), and the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Linear regression predicted outcomes based on BMI category, adjusting for age, sex, race, education, smoking, cohort status, radiographic knee OA, co-morbidity scores, and baseline scores when available. Follow-up data were available for 1727 (71.9%) participants (mean age 67.9 ± 5.3 years; 61.6% female). At baseline, obese subjects compared to overweight and normal were on a greater number of medications (4.28 vs. 3.63 vs. 3.32), had lower gait speeds (1.22 vs. 1.32 vs. 1.36 m/s), higher Charlson scores (0.59 vs. 0.37 vs. 0.30), and higher Western Ontario and McMaster University OA Index (WOMAC) scores (right: 14.8 vs. 10.3 vs. 7.5; left: 14.4 vs. 9.9 vs. 7.5). SF-12 scores at 6 years were lower in obese patients than in overweight or normal [99.5 (95% CI 98.7-100.4) vs. 101.1 (95% CI 100.4-101.8) vs. 102.8 (95% CI 101.8-103.8)], as were PASE scores [115.1 (95% CI 110.3-119.8) vs. 126.2 (95% CI 122.2-130.2) vs. 131.4 (95% CI 125.8-137.0)]. The LLDI limitation component demonstrated differences in obese compared to overweight or normal [78.6 (95% CI 77.4-79.9) vs. 81.2 (95% CI 80.2-82.3) vs. 82.5 (95% CI 81.1-84.0)]. Obesity was associated with worse physical activity scores, lower quality of life, and higher risk of 6-year disability.
Change in Pain and Physical Function Following Bariatric Surgery for Severe Obesity
King, Wendy C.; Chen, Jia-Yuh; Belle, Steven H.; Courcoulas, Anita P.; Dakin, Gregory F.; Elder, Katherine A.; Flum, David R.; Hinojosa, Marcelo W.; Mitchell, James E.; Pories, Walter J.; Wolfe, Bruce M.; Yanovski, Susan Z.
2016-01-01
IMPORTANCE The variability and durability of improvements in pain and physical function following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) are not well described. OBJECTIVES To report changes in pain and physical function in the first 3 years following bariatric surgery, and to identify factors associated with improvement. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery-2 is an observational cohort study at 10 US hospitals. Adults with severe obesity undergoing bariatric surgery were recruited between February 2005 and February 2009. Research assessments were conducted prior to surgery and annually thereafter. Three-year follow-up through October 2012 is reported. EXPOSURES Bariatric surgery as clinical care. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Primary outcomes were clinically meaningful presurgery to postsurgery improvements in pain and function using scores from the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) (ie, improvement of ≥5 points on the norm-based score [range, 0–100]) and 400-meter walk time (ie, improvement of ≥24 seconds) using established thresholds. The secondary outcome was clinically meaningful improvement using the Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (ie, improvement of ≥9.7 pain points and ≥9.3 function points on the transformed score [range, 0–100]). RESULTS Of 2458 participants, 2221 completed baseline and follow-up assessments (1743 [78.5%] were women; median age was 47 years; median body mass index [BMI] was 45.9; 70.4% underwent RYGB; 25.0% underwent LAGB). At year 1, clinically meaningful improvements were shown in 57.6% (95% CI, 55.3%-59.9%) of participants for bodily pain, 76.5% (95% CI, 74.6%-78.5%) for physical function, and 59.5% (95% CI, 56.4%-62.7%) for walk time. Additionally, among participants with severe knee or disability (633), or hip pain or disability (500) at baseline, approximately three-fourths experienced joint
Mesquita, R; Gonçalves, C G; Hayashi, D; Costa, V de S P; Teixeira, D de C; de Freitas, E R F S; Felcar, J M; Pitta, F; Molari, M; Probst, V S
2015-03-01
To investigate the relationship between smoking status and exercise capacity, physical activity in daily life and health-related quality of life in physically independent, elderly (≥60 years) individuals. Cross-sectional, observational study. Community-dwelling, elderly individuals. One hundred and fifty-four elderly individuals were categorised into four groups according to their smoking status: never smokers (n=57), passive smokers (n=30), ex-smokers (n=45) and current smokers (n=22). Exercise capacity [6-minute walk test (6MWT)], physical activity in daily life (step counting) and health-related quality of life [36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire] were assessed. Current and ex-smokers had lower mean exercise capacity compared with never smokers: 90 [standard deviation (SD) 10] % predicted, 91 (SD 12) % predicted and 100 (SD 13) % predicted distance on 6MWT, respectively [mean differences -9.8%, 95% confidence intervals (CI) -17.8 to -1.8 and -9.1%, 95% CI -15.4 to -2.7, respectively; P<0.05 for both]. The level of physical activity did not differ between the groups, but was found to correlate negatively with the level of nicotine dependence in current smokers (r=-0.47, P=0.03). The median score for the mental health dimension of SF-36 was worse in passive {72 [interquartile range (IQR) 56 to 96] points} and current [76 (IQR 55 to 80) points] smokers compared with ex-smokers [88 (IQR 70 to 100) points] (median differences -16 points, 95% CI -22.2 to -3.0 and -12 points, 95% CI -22.8 to -2.4, respectively; P<0.05 for both). Among elderly individuals, current smokers had lower exercise capacity than never smokers. Although the level of physical activity did not differ between the groups, an association was found with smoking. Tobacco exposure was associated with worse scores for the mental health dimension of SF-36 in physically independent, elderly individuals. Copyright © 2014 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd
Functional recovery patterns in seriously injured automotive crash victims.
McMurry, Timothy L; Poplin, Gerald S; Crandall, Jeff
2016-09-01
The functional capacity index (FCI) is designed to predict functional loss 12 months post-injury for each injury in the 2008 Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) manual on a scale from 0 (death) to 100 (full recovery), but FCI has never been validated. This study compared FCI predicted loss with patient-reported 12-month outcomes as measured through the Short Form 36 (SF-36) health assessment survey. Using follow-up data collected on 2,858 adult car crash occupants in the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) database, we compared FCI predicted outcomes to occupants' Physical Component Summary (PCS) scores, which are weighted averages of the SF-36 items addressing physical function. Our analyses included descriptive statistics, plots of typical recovery patterns, and a mixed effects regression model that describes PCS as a function of FCI, demographics, comorbidities, and injury pattern while also adjusting for the occupants' pre-crash physical capabilities. We further examined injuries in patients who report a significant drop in PCS 12 months post-crash despite being predicted to fully recover. At baseline, the CIREN population exhibited PCS scores similar to the overall population (mean = 51.1, SD = 10.3). Twelve months post-crash, occupants with predicted impairment (FCI < 100) report a substantial decrease in physical function, and those who were predicted to fully recover still report some, albeit less, impairment. In the multivariate mixed-effects regression model, FCI is a strongly significant (P-value <.0001) predictor of PCS, with each 1-point drop in FCI predicting a 0.27-point drop in PCS. Maximum AIS severities in the head, spine, and lower extremity body regions were also significantly associated with PCS (P-values <.05). Among occupants who were expected to fully recover but who report a significant drop in PCS at 12 months, spinal fractures without cord involvement account for 5 of the 10 most common AIS 2+ injuries. FCI was associated
Mustafa, Sally Sabry; Looper, Karl Julian; Zelkowitz, Phyllis; Purden, Margaret; Baron, Murray
2012-05-03
Inflammatory arthritis impairs participation in societal roles. Role overload arises when the demands by a given role set exceed the resources; time and energy, to carry out the required tasks. The present study examines the association between role overload and disease outcomes in early inflammatory arthritis (EIA). Patients (n = 104) of 7.61 months mean duration of inflammatory arthritis completed self-report questionnaires on sociodemographics, disease characteristics and role overload. Pain was assessed using the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and physical functioning was measured with the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) physical functioning score. Role overload was measured by the Role Overload Scale. Patients indicated the number of social roles they occupied from a total of the three typical roles; marital, parental and paid work. Participants' mean age was 56 years and 70.2% were female. Role overload was not correlated to the number of social roles, however, it was positively associated with pain (p = 0.004) and negatively associated with physical functioning (p = 0.001). On multivariate analysis, role overload was negatively associated with physical functioning after controlling for the relevant sociodemographic variables. This study identifies a possible reciprocal relationship between role overload and physical functioning in patients with EIA.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Özkuk, Kağan; Gürdal, Hatice; Karagülle, Mine; Barut, Yasemin; Eröksüz, Rıza; Karagülle, Müfit Zeki
2017-04-01
This study aims to compare the effects of balneological treatments applied at consecutive and intermittent sessions without interfering with their daily routine in patients with knee osteoarthritis. This is a randomized, controlled, single-blind clinical trial. Fifty patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis were included. The patients were divided into two groups. All patients were given a total of ten sessions of balneological treatment consisting of hydrotherapy and mud pack therapy. Group 1 received consecutive treatment for 2 weeks, while group 2 received intermittent treatment for 5 weeks. Local peloid packs at 45 °C were applied for 20 min, after a tap water (38 °C) bath. Evaluations were conducted before, after treatment, and at 12th week of post-treatment by Pain (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Short Form-36 (SF-36). Both balneological treatment regimens of knee osteoarthritis had statistically significant clinical effects as well as effects on the quality of life. Patients' well-being continued at 3 months, except for joint stiffness (WOMAC), role-emotional (SF-36), and vitality (SF-36) in group 1 and for mental health (SF-36) in both groups. Both patient groups had improved compared to baseline. However, at 3 months after the treatment, the well-being of group 2 was unable to be maintained in terms of role-physical (SF-36) parameter, while the well-being of group 1 was unable to be maintained in terms of pain, WOMAC (pain, physical functions, total), and SF-36 (physical functioning, role-physical, pain, role-emotional, and mental health) variables, compared to data obtained immediately after treatment. Our study suggests that traditional and intermittent balneological therapies have similar efficacy in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
The two-minute walk test as a measure of functional capacity in cardiac surgery patients.
Brooks, Dina; Parsons, Janet; Tran, Diem; Jeng, Bonnie; Gorczyca, Barbara; Newton, Janet; Lo, Vincent; Dear, Cheryl; Silaj, Ellen; Hawn, Therese
2004-09-01
To examine construct validity and sensitivity of the two-minute walk test (2MWT) in cardiac surgery patients. Measurements were made in patients preoperatively, during the postoperative in-hospital stay, and 6 to 8 weeks after discharge from hospital. Ambulatory and hospitalized care. Patients (N=122; mean age +/- standard deviation, 63+/-9 y) undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Not applicable. The 2MWT, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification for cardiac disease, the Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living scale, and the Medical Outcomes Survey 36-Item Short-Form Health Questionnaire (SF-36). Distance walked in 2 minutes decreased significantly postoperatively (from 138+/-26 m to 84+/-33 m, P<.001), but increased again at follow-up (151+/-31 m, P<.0001). Distance walked on the 2MWT correlated significantly to SF-36 (physical function subscale) preoperatively (r=.44) and at follow-up (r=.48) (P<.001). There was a significant difference in distance walked between those with NYHA class I and II compared with those classified as III or IV (P=.04). However, there was no significant difference in distance walked in 2 minutes between those who developed cardiac or pulmonary complications postoperatively (P> or =0.2). The 2MWT was sensitive to change after cardiac surgery and showed moderate correlation with measures of physical functioning in this population. However, the 2MWT could not identify those who developed complications in the postoperative period.
Gonçalves, Rui Soles; Pinheiro, João Páscoa; Cabri, Jan
2012-08-01
The purpose of this cross sectional study was to estimate the contributions of potentially modifiable physical factors to variations in perceived health status in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients referred for physical therapy. Health status was measured by three questionnaires: Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS); Knee Outcome Survey - Activities of Daily Living Scale (KOS-ADLS); and Medical Outcomes Study - 36 item Short Form (SF-36). Physical factors were measured by a battery of tests: body mass index (BMI); visual analog scale (VAS) of pain intensity; isometric dynamometry; universal goniometry; step test (ST); timed "up and go" test (TUGT); 20-meter walk test (20MWT); and 6-minute walk test (6MWT). All tests were administered to 136 subjects with symptomatic knee OA (94 females, 42 males; age: 67.2 ± 7.1 years). Multiple stepwise regression analyses revealed that knee muscle strength, VAS of pain intensity, 6MWT, degree of knee flexion and BMI were moderate predictors of health status. In the final models, selected combinations of these potentially modifiable physical factors explained 22% to 37% of the variance in KOOS subscale scores, 40% of the variance in the KOS-ADLS scale score, and 21% to 34% of the variance in physical health SF-36 subscale scores. More research is required in order to evaluate whether therapeutic interventions targeting these potentially modifiable physical factors would improve health status in knee OA patients. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Witham, Miles D.; Donnan, Peter T.; Vadiveloo, Thenmalar; Sniehotta, Falko F.; Crombie, Iain K.; Feng, Zhiqiang; McMurdo, Marion E. T.
2014-01-01
Background Weather is a potentially important determinant of physical activity. Little work has been done examining the relationship between weather and physical activity, and potential modifiers of any relationship in older people. We therefore examined the relationship between weather and physical activity in a cohort of older community-dwelling people. Methods We analysed prospectively collected cross-sectional activity data from community-dwelling people aged 65 and over in the Physical Activity Cohort Scotland. We correlated seven day triaxial accelerometry data with daily weather data (temperature, day length, sunshine, snow, rain), and a series of potential effect modifiers were tested in mixed models: environmental variables (urban vs rural dwelling, percentage of green space), psychological variables (anxiety, depression, perceived behavioural control), social variables (number of close contacts) and health status measured using the SF-36 questionnaire. Results 547 participants, mean age 78.5 years, were included in this analysis. Higher minimum daily temperature and longer day length were associated with higher activity levels; these associations remained robust to adjustment for other significant associates of activity: age, perceived behavioural control, number of social contacts and physical function. Of the potential effect modifier variables, only urban vs rural dwelling and the SF-36 measure of social functioning enhanced the association between day length and activity; no variable modified the association between minimum temperature and activity. Conclusions In older community dwelling people, minimum temperature and day length were associated with objectively measured activity. There was little evidence for moderation of these associations through potentially modifiable health, environmental, social or psychological variables. PMID:24497925
Witham, Miles D; Donnan, Peter T; Vadiveloo, Thenmalar; Sniehotta, Falko F; Crombie, Iain K; Feng, Zhiqiang; McMurdo, Marion E T
2014-01-01
Weather is a potentially important determinant of physical activity. Little work has been done examining the relationship between weather and physical activity, and potential modifiers of any relationship in older people. We therefore examined the relationship between weather and physical activity in a cohort of older community-dwelling people. We analysed prospectively collected cross-sectional activity data from community-dwelling people aged 65 and over in the Physical Activity Cohort Scotland. We correlated seven day triaxial accelerometry data with daily weather data (temperature, day length, sunshine, snow, rain), and a series of potential effect modifiers were tested in mixed models: environmental variables (urban vs rural dwelling, percentage of green space), psychological variables (anxiety, depression, perceived behavioural control), social variables (number of close contacts) and health status measured using the SF-36 questionnaire. 547 participants, mean age 78.5 years, were included in this analysis. Higher minimum daily temperature and longer day length were associated with higher activity levels; these associations remained robust to adjustment for other significant associates of activity: age, perceived behavioural control, number of social contacts and physical function. Of the potential effect modifier variables, only urban vs rural dwelling and the SF-36 measure of social functioning enhanced the association between day length and activity; no variable modified the association between minimum temperature and activity. In older community dwelling people, minimum temperature and day length were associated with objectively measured activity. There was little evidence for moderation of these associations through potentially modifiable health, environmental, social or psychological variables.
Williams, Brian A.; Dang, Qainyu; Bost, James E.; Irrgang, James J.; Orebaugh, Steven L.; Bottegal, Matthew T.; Kentor, Michael L.
2010-01-01
Background We previously reported that continuous perineural femoral analgesia reduces pain with movement during the first 2 days after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR, n=270), when compared with multimodal analgesia and placebo perineural femoral infusion. We now report the prospectively collected general health and knee function outcomes in the 7 days to 12 weeks after surgery in these same patients. Methods At 3 points during 12 weeks after ACLR surgery, patients completed the SF-36 General Health Survey, and the Knee Outcome Survey (KOS). Generalized Estimating Equations were implemented to evaluate the association between patient-reported survey outcomes and (i) preoperative baseline survey scores, (ii) time after surgery, and (iii) 3 nerve block treatment groups. Results Two-hundred-seventeen patients’ data were complete for analysis. In univariate and multiple regression Generalized Estimating Equations models, nerve block treatment group was not associated with SF-36 and KOS scores after surgery (all with P≥0.05). The models showed that the physical component summary of the SF-36 (P < 0.0001) and the KOS total score (P < 0.0001) increased (improved) over time after surgery and were also influenced by baseline scores. Conclusions After spinal anesthesia and multimodal analgesia for ACLR, the nerve block treatment group did not predict SF-36 or knee function outcomes from 7 days to 12 weeks after surgery. Further research is needed to determine whether these conclusions also apply to a nonstandardized anesthetic, or one that includes general anesthesia and/or high-dose opioid analgesia. PMID:19299803
Beperet, Inés; Simón, Oihane; Williams, Trevor; López-Ferber, Miguel; Caballero, Primitivo
2015-05-01
The "11K" gene family is notable for having homologs in both baculoviruses and entomopoxviruses and is classified as either type 145 or type 150, according to their similarity with the ac145 or ac150 genes of Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV). One homolog of ac145 (sf138) and two homologs of ac150 (sf68 and sf95) are present in Spodoptera frugiperda multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (SfMNPV). Recombinant bacmids lacking sf68, sf95 or sf138 (Sf68null, Sf95null and Sf138null, respectively) and the respective repair bacmids were generated from a bacmid comprising the complete virus genome. Occlusion bodies (OBs) of the Sf138null virus were ∼15-fold less orally infective to insects, which was attributed to a 100-fold reduction in ODV infectious titer. Inoculation of insects with Sf138null OBs in mixtures with an optical brightener failed to restore the pathogenicity of Sf138null OBs to that of the parental virus, indicating that the effects of sf138 deletion on OB pathogenicity were unlikely to involve an interaction with the gut peritrophic matrix. In contrast, deletion of sf68 and sf95 resulted in a slower speed-of-kill by 9h, and a concurrent increase in the yield of OBs. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that sf68 and sf95 were not generated after a duplication event of an ancestral gene homologous to the ac150 gene. We conclude that type 145 genes modulate the primary infection process of the virus, whereas type 150 genes appear to have a role in spreading systemic infection within the insect. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Association between physical activity and quality of life in adults.
Pucci, Gabrielle Cristine Moura Fernandes; Rech, Cassiano Ricardo; Fermino, Rogério César; Reis, Rodrigo Siqueira
2012-02-01
To summarize and analyze evidences of the association between physical activity and quality of life. Systematic literature review in three electronic databases -PubMed, Lilacs and SciELO- using the following descriptors: "physical activity," "motor activity," "exercise," "walking," "running," "physical fitness," "sport," "life style," "quality of life," "WHOQOL" and "SF." There were selected 38 studies published between 1980 and 2010 that used any instrument to measure physical activity and any version of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey or the World Health Organization Quality of Life to assess quality of life. Most studies reviewed were cross-sectional (68%), 18% experimental, 8% prospective follow-up cohort and 5% mixed-design (cross-sectional and longitudinal). The most widely used questionnaire to assess quality of life was SF-36 (71%), and physical activity was self-reported in 82% of the studies reviewed. Higher level of physical activity was associated with better perception of quality of life in the elderly, apparently healthy adults and individuals with different clinical conditions. There is a positive association between physical activity and quality of life that varies according to the domain analyzed.
Van Dyck, Delfien; Cardon, Greet; Deforche, Benedicte; De Bourdeaudhuij, Ilse
2015-01-01
The transition to retirement introduces a decline in total physical activity and an increase in TV viewing time. Nonetheless, as more time becomes available, early retirement is an ideal stage to implement health interventions. Therefore, knowledge on specific determinants of physical activity and sedentary time is needed. Former work-related physical activity has been proposed as a potential determinant, but concrete evidence is lacking. The aim of this study was to examine if former work-related sitting, standing, walking or vigorous activities predict physical activity and sedentary time during early retirement. Additionally, moderating effects of educational level and physical functioning were examined. In total, 392 recently retired Belgian adults (>6 months, <5 years) completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the SF-36 Health Survey and a questionnaire on sociodemographics and former work-related activities. Generalized linear regression analyses were conducted in R. Moderating effects were examined by adding cross-products to the models. More former work-related sitting was predictive of more screen time during retirement. Lower levels of former work-related vigorous activities and higher levels of former work-related walking were associated with respectively more cycling for transport and more walking for transport during retirement. None of the predictors significantly explained passive transportation, cycling and walking for recreation, and leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity during retirement. Several moderating effects were found, but the direction of the interactions was not univocal. Former-work related behaviors are of limited importance to explain physical activity during early retirement, so future studies should focus on other individual, social and environmental determinants. Nonetheless, adults who previously had a sedentary job had higher levels of screen time during retirement, so this is an important
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...; Special Conditions No. 23-248-SC] Special Conditions: Cirrus Design Corporation Model SF50 Airplane... granting special conditions for the Cirrus Design Corporation model SF50 airplane. We are withdrawing... Special Condition No. 23-248- SC for the Cirrus Design Corporation new model SF50 ``Vision'' Jet. The SF50...
List, Thomas; John, Mike T.; Ohrbach, Richard; Schiffman, Eric L.; Truelove, Edmond L.; Anderson, Gary C.
2015-01-01
Aims To investigate the relationship of headache frequency with patient-reported physical functioning and emotional functioning in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) subjects with concurrent temple headache. Methods The Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (RDC/TMD) Validation Project identified, as a subset of 614 TMD cases and 91 controls (n = 705), 309 subjects with concurrent TMD pain diagnoses (RDC/TMD) and temple headache. The temple headaches were subdivided into infrequent, frequent, and chronic headache according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, second edition (ICHD–II). Study variables included self-report measures of physical functioning (Jaw Function Limitation Scale [JFLS], Graded Chronic Pain Scale [GCPS], Short Form–12 [SF–12]) and emotional functioning (depression and anxiety as measured by the Symptom Checklist–90R/SCL–90R). Differences among the three headache subgroups were characterized by increasing headache frequency. The relationship between ordered headache frequency and physical as well as emotional functioning was analyzed using linear regression and trend tests for proportions. Results Physical functioning, as assessed with the JFLS (P < .001), SF-12 (P < .001), and GCPS (P < .001), was significantly associated with increased headache frequency. Emotional functioning, reflected in depression and anxiety, was also associated with increased frequency of headache (both P < .001). Conclusion Headache frequency was substantially correlated with reduced physical functioning and emotional functioning in subjects with TMD and concurrent temple headaches. A secondary finding was that headache was precipitated by jaw activities more often in subjects with more frequent temple headaches. PMID:22558607
Leidy, Nancy Kline; Hamilton, Alan; Becker, Karin
2012-01-01
The performance of daily activities is a major challenge for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Functional Performance Inventory (FPI) was developed based on an analytical framework of functional status and qualitative interviews with COPD patients describing these difficulties. The 65-item FPI was reduced to a 32-item short form (SF) through a systematic process of qualitative and quantitative item reduction and formatted for greater clarity and ease of use. This study examined the content validity of the reduced, reformatted form of the instrument, the FPI-SF. Qualitative cognitive interviews were conducted with COPD patients recruited from three geographically diverse pulmonary clinics in the United States. Interviews were designed to assess respondent interpretation of the instrument, evaluate clarity and ease of completion, and identify any new activities participants found important and difficult to perform that were not represented by the existing items. Twenty subjects comprised the sample; 12 (60%) were male, 14 (70%) were Caucasian, the mean age was 63.0 ± 11.3 years, 12 (60%) were retired, the mean forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV(1)) was 1.5 ± 0.5 L, and the mean percent predicted FEV(1) was 48.4% ± 13.1%. Participants understood the FPI-SF as intended, including instructions, items, and response options. Two minor formatting changes were suggested to improve clarity of presentation. Participants found the content of the FPI-SF to be comprehensive, with items covering activities they felt were important and often difficult to perform. These results, together with its development history and previously tested quantitative properties, suggest that the FPI-SF is content valid for use in clinical studies of COPD.
Nguyen, Christelle; Ranque, Brigitte; Baubet, Thierry; Bérezné, Alice; Mestre-Stanislas, Caroline; Rannou, François; Papelard, Agathe; Morell-Dubois, Sandrine; Revel, Michel; Moro, Marie-Rose; Guillevin, Loïc; Poiraudeau, Serge; Mouthon, Luc
2014-01-01
Objectives To identify clinical, functional and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) correlates of clinically significant symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods Three-hundred-and-eighty-one patients fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology and/or the Leroy and Medsger criteria for SSc were assessed for visceral involvement, disability and HRQoL (assessed by SF-36). Clinically significant symptoms of anxiety and depression were evaluated with the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HAD) (defined cut-off≥8). Results 9.2% the patients had limited SSc, 50.5% limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc), and 40.3% diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc). Overall, 40.4% and 58.8% of the patients had clinically significant symptoms of depression and anxiety, respectively. Compared to patients without clinically significant symptoms of depression, patients with clinically significant symptoms of depression had poorer health status, HRQoL mental and physical component, and greater global disability, hand disability and aesthetic impairment. Compared to patients without clinically significant symptoms of anxiety, patients with clinically significant symptoms of anxiety had poorer SF-36 mental and physical component scores. On multivariable analysis, excluding mental component score of SF-36, variables independently associated with clinically significant symptoms of depression and anxiety were global disability and physical component of SF-36, plus female gender for clinically significant symptoms of anxiety only. Remarkably, patients with and without clinically significant psychiatric symptoms were comparable for all disease-related clinical features assessed. Conclusion High levels of clinically significant symptoms of anxiety and depression are observed among SSc patients. Clinically significant psychiatric symptoms are rather associated with increased disability and altered HRQoL, than with disease-specific organ manifestations. PMID
Predictors of health-related quality of life in patients with chronic liver disease.
Afendy, A; Kallman, J B; Stepanova, M; Younoszai, Z; Aquino, R D; Bianchi, G; Marchesini, G; Younossi, Z M
2009-09-01
Patient-reported outcomes like health-related quality of life (HRQL) have become increasingly important for full assessment of patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD). To explore the relative impact of different types of liver disease on HRQL as well as predictors of HRQL domains in CLD. Our HRQL databases with Short-Form 36 (SF-36) data were used. Scores for each of SF-36 scales (PF - physical functioning, RP - role functioning, BP - bodily pain, GH - general health, VT - vitality, SF - social functioning, RE - role emotional and MH - mental health, MCS - mental component score, PCS - physical component score) were compared between different types of CLD as well as other variables. Complete data were available for 1103 CLD patients. Demographic and clinical data included: age 54.2 +/- 12.0 years, 40% female, 761 (69%) with cirrhosis. Analysis revealed that age correlated significantly (P < 0.05) with worsening HRQL on every scale of the SF-36. Female patients had more HRQL impairments in PF, RP, BP, GH, VT and MH scales of SF-36 (Delta scale score: 6.6-10.7, P < 0.05). Furthermore, cirrhotic patients had more impairment of HRQL in every scale of SF-36 (Delta scale score: 6.6-43.0, P < 0.05). In terms of diagnostic groups, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients showed more impairment of HRQL. Analysis of this large CLD cohort suggests that a number of important clinicodemographic factors are associated with HRQL impairment. These findings contribute to the full understanding of the total impact of CLD on patients' health.
Loh, Siew Yim; Abdullah, Amalina; Abu Bakar, Abdul Kadir; Thambu, Maniam; Nik Jaafar, Nik Ruzyanei
2015-05-21
Lifestyle moderate-intensity physical activity can lower the risk of over twenty chronic health conditions, whilst inactivity reduces daily functioning and physical health of individuals living with schizophrenia. This study conducted in 2014 examines the effect of structured walking participation on QOL, psychosocial functioning and symptoms in Hospital Permai, one of the largest psychiatry institution in Asia Chronic patients with schizophrenia (n=104) who met inclusion criteria were randomised to either a 3-month structured walking intervention or a treatment-as-usual arm. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), global functioning (PSP) and QOL (SF-36) were measured at baseline and after the 3-month interval. At 3 month follow-up, there were significant within group differences in QOL (SF-36), psychiatric symptoms (PANSS), and personal and social performance (PSP). There were statistically significant increase in the median SF-36 scores, with increases shown in physical functioning (p<.001), physical role limitations (p<.05), social functioning (p<.01) in the intervention group compared to treatment-as-usual group. Statistically significant reduction of median PANSS score of the intervention group were noted in positive (p<0.001) and negative (p<0.01) symptom, and general psychopathology (p<0.01) scales. Statistically significant increase in the median PSP score (p<0.01) was found in the intervention group compared with the treatment-as-usual group. Between-group differences at post intervention (favouring Intervention) were significant for PANSS positive and SF36 Physical In long stayed chronic inmates, a simple but consistent, organized walking intervention has the potential to bring improvement in functioning, reduction in psychiatric symptoms and quality of Life. The emphasis of rehabilitation should target at lifestyle redesign intervention.
Bell, Jill A; daCosta DiBonaventura, Marco; Witt, Edward A; Ben-Joseph, Rami; Reeve, Bryce B
2017-02-01
To assess the feasibility of using the SF-36v2 mental health (MH) and mental component summary (MCS) scores for classification of risk for major depressive disorder (MDD), and to determine cut-off scores based on the sensitivity and specificity in a general US representative sample, and a chronic pain subpopulation. Data were analyzed from the 2013 US National Health and Wellness Survey (adults 18 y old and above; N=75,000), and among a chronic pain subpopulation (n=6679). Risk of MDD was a score ≥10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Logistic regression modeling was used to predict at risk for MDD and receiver operating characteristic curves were produced. The total sample had MH scores of 48.8 and MCS scores of 48.9, similar to the normative US population mean. Percent of respondents with a PHQ-9≥10 were 15.0% and 29.1% for the total sample and chronic pain subpopulation, respectively. Cut-off scores (PHQ-9≥10) in the total sample for the MH and MCS were 43.0 and 46.0, respectively. Specificities for the MH and MCS were 77.8% and 76.1%; sensitivities were 84.9% and 88.1%, respectively. Among the subpopulation with chronic pain, cut-off scores for the MH and MCS were 40.4 and 43.1, respectively. Corresponding specificities for the MH and MCS were 77.9% and 73.9%; sensitivities were 78.3% and 83.4%, respectively. The SF-36v2 was found to have sufficient specificity and sensitivity to categorize participants at risk for MDD. If no depression questionnaire is available, it is feasible to use the SF-36v2 to characterize the MH of populations.
Associations of Eye Diseases and Symptoms with Self-Reported Physical and Mental Health
Lee, Paul P.; Cunningham, William E.; Nakazono, Terry T.; Hays, Ron D.
2009-01-01
Purpose To study the associations of eye diseases and visual symptoms with the most widely used health-related quality of life (HRQOL) generic profile measure. Design HRQOL was assessed using the SF-36® version 1 survey administered to a sample of patients receiving care provided by a physician group practice association. Methods Eye dieases, ocular symptoms, and general health was assessed in a sample of patients from 48 physician groups. A total of 18,480 surveys were mailed out and 7,093 returned; 5,021of these had complete data. Multiple linear regression models were used to examine the decrements in self-reported physical and mental health associated with eye diseases and symptoms, including trouble seeing and blurred vision. Results Nine percent of the respondents had cataracts, 2% had age-related macular degeneration, 2% glaucoma, 8% blurred vision, and 13% trouble seeing. Trouble seeing and blurred vision both had statistically unique associations with worse scores on the SF-36 mental health summary score. Only trouble seeing had a significant association with the SF-36 physical health summary score. While these ocular symptoms were significantly associated with SF-36® scores, having an eye disease (cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration) was not, after adjusting for other variables in the model. Conclusions Our results suggest an important link between visual symptoms and general HRQOL. The study extends the findings of prior research to show that both trouble seeing and blurred vision have independent, measurable associations with HRQOL, while the presence of specific eye diseases may not. PMID:19712923
Raszeja-Wyszomirska, Joanna; Wunsch, Ewa; Krawczyk, Marek; Rigopoulou, Eirini I; Bogdanos, Dimitrios; Milkiewicz, Piotr
2015-06-01
Primary biliary cirrhosis and Primary sclerosing cholangitis are autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases sharing a lot in common, including a significant impairment of patients' health-related quality of life HRQoL HRQoL in PBC is assessed with disease-specific PBC-40 and PBC-27 questionnaires. A PSC-specific questionnaire has not been developed. Neither PBC-40 nor PBC-27s applicability for PSC has been evaluated. We applied these three questionnaires for HRQoL assessment in a large homogenous cohort of PSC patients. This cross-sectional study enrolled 102 Caucasian PSCs and 53 matched healthy controls and measured HRQoL using generic SF-36, and disease-specific (PBC-40/PBC-27) questionnaires. (i) SF-36. Most SF-36 domains were significantly lower in PSCs than controls. Physical Functioning and Mental Component Summary scores were significantly lower in female patients and correlated negatively with age but not with concurrent inflammatory bowel disease. Cirrhosis was associated with lower Physical Functioning, Role Physical, General Health, Vitality and Physical Component Summary. (ii) PBC-40 and PBC-27. Both tools showed similar HRQoL impairment scoring. Fatigue and Cognitive were impaired in female patients. Several correlations existed between HRQoL and laboratory parameters, including cholestatic tests and Itch. Cirrhosis correlated with Other symptoms and Fatigue PBC-40. (iii) PBC-40 vs PBC-27. Strong correlations among most domains of both questionnaires were seen, as well as between (iv) SF-36 vs PBC-40 or SF-36 vs PBC-27. This is the first study directly comparing PBC-40, PBC-27 and SF-36 in PSC. PSC patients, especially females, show HRQoL impairment. PBC-40 and PBC-27 questionnaires could be of potential use for HRQoL assessment in PSC. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Rhebergen, Didi; Beekman, Aartjan T F; de Graaf, Ron; Nolen, Willem A; Spijker, Jan; Hoogendijk, Witte J; Penninx, Brenda W J H
2010-07-01
Depressive disorders have a large impact on psychosocial functioning. Since lower functioning predicts recurrence of a depressive episode, insight into the post-morbid course of psychosocial functioning of persons with different depressive disorders may facilitate recurrence prevention. Data were derived from NEMESIS, an epidemiologic survey in the adult population in the Netherlands. Respondents, who met the CIDI criteria of major depression (MDD; n=102), dysthymic disorder (Dysth; n=66) or double depression (DD; n=73) at baseline, and recovered during three year follow-up, were included; as was a control group without any diagnosis (NoDiag, n=4140). Functioning was assessed using the Groningen Social Disability Schedule (GSDS) and the SF-36 physical health summary-scale. Linear Mixed Models were conducted to compare 3-year trajectories of functioning across depressive groups and with NoDiag group. Compared to NoDiag, all depressed groups were significantly impaired on social and physical functioning. Dysth and DD had a lower level of post-morbid physical functioning compared to MDD (after 1 and 3 years respectively: Dysth: B=-13.8, p=.002 and B=-8.11, p=.09; DD: B=-8.9, p=.03 and B=-9.1, p=.05). Determinants for impaired social functioning (neuroticism) and for impaired physical functioning (age, comorbid somatic disorders and neuroticism) were identified. Attrition was higher among persons with a depression. Inclusion of the drop-outs would most likely have resulted in stronger associations, since we expect lower functioning among the drop-outs. This study indicates the long-term debilitating effects of psychopathology, even after recovery of depressive disorders. Duration of the index symptoms appears to be associated with impaired functioning, since especially those with Dysthymia (either with or without a MDD) showed slower and less recovery of functioning.
Blum, Steven I; Tourkodimitris, Stavros; Ruth, Adam
2015-01-01
Levomilnacipran extended-release (ER) is an FDA-approved serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) for treating major depressive disorder (MDD). SF-36v2 Health Survey outcomes from a Phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (NCT00969709) were evaluated. Prospective and post hoc analyses of SF-36 Mental and Physical Component Summaries (MCS, PCS), and individual domains compared pooled levomilnacipran ER doses (40, 80, 120 mg/day) with placebo. Patients (18-65 years) had MDD, depressive episode ≥ 8 weeks, and Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale total score ≥ 30. SF-36 score changes from baseline to Week 8 were analyzed using ANCOVA and the observed cases approach (Intent-to-Treat [ITT] Population). Minimally important differences (MID) evaluated clinical relevance. Baseline MCS scores reflected marked mental deficits in the ITT Population (levomilnacipran ER = 529; placebo = 175). MCS change at Week 8 was significantly greater for levomilnacipran ER than placebo (LSMD [SE] = 4.8 [1.5]; P = 0.0011); MID exceeded the 3-point threshold. Baseline PCS scores suggested minimal physical deficits; no between-group difference at Week 8 was noted. LSMD was nominally statistically significant (P < 0.05) for levomilnacipran ER versus placebo in 5 domains (General Health [2.44; P = 0.0010], Vitality [2.48; P = 0.0307], Social Functioning [3.25; P = 0.0097], Role-Emotional [3.38; P = 0.0078], Mental Health [4.34; P = 0.0005]); changes in Vitality, Social Functioning, and Mental Health exceeded MID. The trial was limited by short duration; analyses were post hoc and adjustments were not made for multiplicity. Statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement on the MCS and several individual domains suggest overall and dimensional improvement in health-related functioning for patients with MDD treated with levomilnacipran ER versus placebo. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Leidy, Nancy Kline; Hamilton, Alan; Becker, Karin
2012-01-01
Purpose The performance of daily activities is a major challenge for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Functional Performance Inventory (FPI) was developed based on an analytical framework of functional status and qualitative interviews with COPD patients describing these difficulties. The 65-item FPI was reduced to a 32-item short form (SF) through a systematic process of qualitative and quantitative item reduction and formatted for greater clarity and ease of use. This study examined the content validity of the reduced, reformatted form of the instrument, the FPI-SF. Patients and methods Qualitative cognitive interviews were conducted with COPD patients recruited from three geographically diverse pulmonary clinics in the United States. Interviews were designed to assess respondent interpretation of the instrument, evaluate clarity and ease of completion, and identify any new activities participants found important and difficult to perform that were not represented by the existing items. Results Twenty subjects comprised the sample; 12 (60%) were male, 14 (70%) were Caucasian, the mean age was 63.0 ± 11.3 years, 12 (60%) were retired, the mean forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) was 1.5 ± 0.5 L, and the mean percent predicted FEV1 was 48.4% ± 13.1%. Participants understood the FPI-SF as intended, including instructions, items, and response options. Two minor formatting changes were suggested to improve clarity of presentation. Participants found the content of the FPI-SF to be comprehensive, with items covering activities they felt were important and often difficult to perform. Conclusion These results, together with its development history and previously tested quantitative properties, suggest that the FPI-SF is content valid for use in clinical studies of COPD. PMID:22969295
Responsiveness of pain and disability measures for chronic whiplash.
Stewart, Mark; Maher, Christopher G; Refshauge, Kathryn M; Bogduk, Nikolai; Nicholas, Michael
2007-03-01
Cohort study. To evaluate the responsiveness of common pain and disability measures in a cohort of patients with chronic whiplash. Pain and disability are routinely measured in clinical practice and clinical research. However, to date, a head-to-head comparison of competing measures for whiplash patients has not been performed. Pain (pain intensity, bothersomeness, and SF-36 bodily pain score) and disability (Patient Specific Functional Scale, Neck Disability Index, Functional Rating Index, Copenhagen Scale, and SF-36 physical summary) measures were completed by 132 patients with chronic whiplash at baseline and then again after 6 weeks together with an 11-point global perceived effect scale. Internal responsiveness was evaluated by calculating effect sizes and standardized response means, and external responsiveness by correlating change scores with global perceived effect scores and by ROC curves. The ranking of responsiveness was consistent across the different analyses. Pain bothersomeness was more responsive than pain intensity, which was more responsive than the SF-36 pain measure. The Patient Specific Functional Scale was the most responsive disability measure, followed by the spine-specific measures, with the SF-36 physical summary measure the least responsive. Pain bothersomeness and the Patient Specific Functional Scale provide the most responsive measures of pain and disability, respectively, in patients with chronic whiplash.
Uemura, Shinichi; Machida, Kazuhiki
2003-09-01
In order to evaluate the relationship of quality of life (QOL) with physical fitness, competence and stress response in the elderly population in Japan, a cross sectional field survey of elderly subjects was conducted. This survey was taken in Naguri village, Saitama. The data collected included physical fitness, competence, stress response and QOL in addition to demographic variables. As for physical fitness indexes, grip strength (GS), single leg balance with eyes closed (SLB), bar grip ping reaction time (RT), trunk flexion (RF), ten-meter walking time (WT) and vital capacity (VC) were measured. The SF-36 was used for QOL assessment. A total of 120 elderly subjected participated to the survey. There were 42 males (73.5 +/- 5.74 years) and 78 females (74.2 +/- 6.17 years). The associations between physical health parameters in SF-36 and WT were highly significant: physical functioning (beta = -2.96, p < 0.001), role physical (beta = -3.64, p < 0.001), bodily pain (beta = -3.27, p < 0.001) and general health (beta = -3.14, p = 0.001). Psychological stress response had a negative correlation with social functioning (beta = -0.74, p = 0.024), role-emotional (beta = -2.34, p < 0.007) and mental health (beta = -0.97, p = 0.024) as determined by multiple regression analysis. The goodness-of-fit indexes of the structural equation model describing the relationships among physical fitness, competence, stress response and QOL indicated excellent fit to the data with GFI = 0.95 and AGFI = 0.88. Stress response showed relatively stronger influence on QOL than physical fitness or competence. Although there were slight differences in degree of influence, physical fitness, stress response and competence were found to be clearly related to QOL in elderly subjects. To keep good QOL status, it is important to maintain good physical fitness and level of competence and to reduce stress response.
2011-01-01
Background The SF-12v2 is the improved version of the SF-12v1. This study aimed to validate the SF-12v2 in Iran. Methods A random sample of the general population aged 18 years and over living in Tehran, Iran completed the instrument. Reliability was estimated using internal consistency and validity was assessed using known-groups comparison and convergent validity. In addition the factor structure of the questionnaire was extracted by performing both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA). Results In all, 3685 individuals were studied (1887male and 1798 female). Internal consistency for both summary measures was satisfactory. Cronbach's α for the Physical Component Summary (PCS-12) was 0.87 and for the Mental Component Summary (MCS-12) it was 0.82. Known-groups comparison showed that the SF-12v2 discriminated well between men and women and those who differed in age and educational status (P < 0.05). Furthermore, as hypothesized the physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain and general health subscales correlated higher with the PCS-12, while the vitality, social functioning, role emotional and mental health subscales correlated higher with the MCS-12. Finally the exploratory factor analysis indicated a two-factor structure (physical and mental health) that jointly accounted for 59.9% of the variance. The confirmatory factory analysis also indicated a good fit to the data for the two-latent structure (physical and mental health). Conclusion Although the findings could not be generalized to the Iranian population, overall the findings suggest that the SF-12v2 is a reliable and valid measure of health related quality of life among Iranians and now could be used in future health outcome studies. However, further studies are recommended to establish its stability, responsiveness to change, and concurrent validity for this health survey in Iran. PMID:21385359
Montazeri, Ali; Vahdaninia, Mariam; Mousavi, Sayed Javad; Asadi-Lari, Mohsen; Omidvari, Sepideh; Tavousi, Mahmoud
2011-03-07
The SF-12v2 is the improved version of the SF-12v1. This study aimed to validate the SF-12v2 in Iran. A random sample of the general population aged 18 years and over living in Tehran, Iran completed the instrument. Reliability was estimated using internal consistency and validity was assessed using known-groups comparison and convergent validity. In addition the factor structure of the questionnaire was extracted by performing both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA). In all, 3685 individuals were studied (1887 male and 1798 female). Internal consistency for both summary measures was satisfactory. Cronbach's α for the Physical Component Summary (PCS-12) was 0.87 and for the Mental Component Summary (MCS-12) it was 0.82. Known-groups comparison showed that the SF-12v2 discriminated well between men and women and those who differed in age and educational status (P < 0.05). Furthermore, as hypothesized the physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain and general health subscales correlated higher with the PCS-12, while the vitality, social functioning, role emotional and mental health subscales correlated higher with the MCS-12. Finally the exploratory factor analysis indicated a two-factor structure (physical and mental health) that jointly accounted for 59.9% of the variance. The confirmatory factory analysis also indicated a good fit to the data for the two-latent structure (physical and mental health). Although the findings could not be generalized to the Iranian population, overall the findings suggest that the SF-12v2 is a reliable and valid measure of health related quality of life among Iranians and now could be used in future health outcome studies. However, further studies are recommended to establish its stability, responsiveness to change, and concurrent validity for this health survey in Iran.
1998-06-19
Morgan M. The SF-36 health survey questionnaire: Is it suitable for use with older adults ? Age and Ageing 24:120-125, 1995 35. Weinberger M, Nagle B...importance in older adults of Western societies. Over the age of 60, AF has a prevalence of 2-4%.L AF may affect as many as 16% of men and 12.2% of women...physical activity in older adult populations. TABLE 3 SHORT FORM HEALTH SURVEY (SF-3 6) INTERPRETATION 41 Low score High score 3 Physical
Knowles, Rachel; Veldtman, Gruschen; Hickey, Edward J; Bradley, Timothy; Gengsakul, Aungkana; Webb, Gary D; Williams, William G; McCrindle, Brian W
2012-07-01
Survival prospects for adults with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) are now excellent. Attention should therefore shift to assessing and improving functional health status and quality of life. We aimed to assess late functional health status of adults surviving TOF repair by matched comparison to their healthy siblings. All 1,693 TOF repairs performed at our institution between 1946 and 1990 were reviewed. A matched comparison was undertaken whereby presumed survivors and their healthy sibling were contacted and asked to complete the Ontario Health Survey 1990 and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire. Both questionnaires were completed by 224 adult survivors and their sibling closest in age. Adults with repaired TOF had lower scores for self-perceived general health status (p < 0.001), were less likely to rate their health as good or excellent (p < 0.001), and had lower SF-36 scores for physical functioning and general health (p = 0.001) than their siblings. However, patients reported similar satisfaction with their lives, similar levels of social participation and support, and were as likely to be in long-term partnerships. Worse physical and mental health scores were associated with older age at surgery and at time of questionnaire completion and recent requirement for noncardiac medication. Although reporting lower functional health status then their siblings, quality of life and life satisfaction for adults who underwent surgery for TOF during childhood is comparable to that of their siblings without heart defects. Follow-up of younger adults is required to understand current health outcomes attributable to improvements in the management of TOF. Copyright © 2012 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Steiner, Jennifer L; Bigatti, Silvia M; Ang, Dennis C
2015-07-01
Fibromyalgia is associated with widespread pain, depression, and declines in physical functioning. The purpose of this study was to examine the trajectory of these symptoms over time related to physical activity adoption and maintenance via motivational interviewing versus education, to increase physical activity. There were no treatment group differences; we divided the sample (n = 184) based on changes in physical activity. Repeated measures analyses demonstrated differential patterns in depression, pain, and physical functioning at 24 and 36 weeks. Findings suggest increased physical activity may serve as a multiple-target intervention that provides moderate to large, long-lasting benefits for individuals with fibromyalgia. © The Author(s) 2013.
2012-01-01
Background Inflammatory arthritis impairs participation in societal roles. Role overload arises when the demands by a given role set exceed the resources; time and energy, to carry out the required tasks. The present study examines the association between role overload and disease outcomes in early inflammatory arthritis (EIA). Methods Patients (n = 104) of 7.61 months mean duration of inflammatory arthritis completed self-report questionnaires on sociodemographics, disease characteristics and role overload. Pain was assessed using the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and physical functioning was measured with the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) physical functioning score. Role overload was measured by the Role Overload Scale. Patients indicated the number of social roles they occupied from a total of the three typical roles; marital, parental and paid work. Results Participants’ mean age was 56 years and 70.2% were female. Role overload was not correlated to the number of social roles, however, it was positively associated with pain (p = 0.004) and negatively associated with physical functioning (p = 0.001). On multivariate analysis, role overload was negatively associated with physical functioning after controlling for the relevant sociodemographic variables. Conclusion This study identifies a possible reciprocal relationship between role overload and physical functioning in patients with EIA. PMID:22554167
Boesmueller, Sandra; Tiefenboeck, Thomas M; Hofbauer, Marcus; Bukaty, Adam; Oberleitner, Gerhard; Huf, Wolfgang; Fialka, Christian
2017-06-13
One of the currently used surgical techniques in isolated type II SLAP lesions is arthroscopic SLAP repair. Postoperatively, patients tend to suffer from a prolonged period of pain and are restricted in their sports activities for at least 6 months. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the clinical outcome as well as the postoperative course of pain after arthroscopic type II SLAP repair. Outcome measures were assessed using the Individual Relative Constant Score (CS indiv ), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Score, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the Short Form 36 (SF-36). Data were collected preoperatively, as well as at 3, 6, 12 and >24 months postoperatively. Eleven patients with an average age of 31.8 years (range: 22.8-49.8 years) underwent arthroscopic repair of isolated type II SLAP lesions. Mean follow-up time was 41.9 months (range: 36.1-48.4 months). 6 months after surgery, there was a statistically significant improvement of function according to the CS indiv (p = 0.004), the ASES Score (p = 0.006), and the SF-36 subscale "physical functioning" (p = 0.014) and a statistically significant decrease of pain according to the VAS (p = 0.007) and the SF-36 subscale "bodily pain" (p = 0.022) compared to preoperative levels. Arthroscopic repair of isolated type II SLAP lesions with suture anchors leads to a satisfactory functional outcome and return to pre-injury sports levels, with delayed, but significant pain relief observed 6 months after surgery. Thus, a return to sports should not be allowed earlier than 6 months after surgery, when patients have reached pain-free function and recovered strength. Researchregistry1761 (UIN).
Tokuda, Yasuharu; Okubo, Tomoya; Ohde, Sachiko; Jacobs, Joshua; Takahashi, Osamu; Omata, Fumio; Yanai, Haruo; Hinohara, Shigeaki; Fukui, Tsuguya
2009-06-01
The Short Form-8 (SF-8) questionnaire is a commonly used 8-item instrument of health-related quality of life (QOL) and provides a health profile of eight subdimensions. Our aim was to examine the psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the SF-8 instrument using methodology based on nominal categories model. Using data from an adjusted random sample from a nationally representative panel, the nominal categories modeling was applied to SF-8 items to characterize coverage of the latent trait (theta). Probabilities for response choices were described as functions on the latent trait. Information functions were generated based on the estimated item parameters. A total of 3344 participants (53%, women; median age, 35 years) provided responses. One factor was retained (eigenvalue, 4.65; variance proportion of 0.58) and used as theta. All item response category characteristic curves satisfied the monotonicity assumption in accurate order with corresponding ordinal responses. Four items (general health, bodily pain, vitality, and mental health) cover most of the spectrum of theta, while the other four items (physical function, role physical [role limitations because of physical health], social functioning, and role emotional [role limitations because of emotional problems] ) cover most of the negative range of theta. Information function for all items combined peaked at -0.7 of theta (information = 18.5) and decreased with increasing theta. The SF-8 instrument performs well among those with poor QOL across the continuum of the latent trait and thus can recognize more effectively persons with relatively poorer QOL than those with relatively better QOL.
Liegl, Gregor; Rose, Matthias; Correia, Helena; Fischer, H Felix; Kanlidere, Sibel; Mierke, Annett; Obbarius, Alexander; Nolte, Sandra
2018-01-01
To translate the PROMIS Physical Function (PF) item bank version 1.2 into German and to investigate psychometric properties of resulting full bank and seven derived short forms. Cross-sectional psychometric study. Inpatient and outpatient clinics of the Department of Psychosomatic Medicine at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. A total of 10 adult patients with various chronic diseases participated in cognitive debriefing interviews. The final item bank was administered to n = 266 adult patients with a broad range of medical conditions. Patient-reported outcome assessment as part of routine care. PROMIS v1.2 PF bank; MOS SF-36 PF scale (PF-10). Cross-cultural adaptation of the item bank followed established guidelines. For the final German translation, the corrected item-total correlations ranged from 0.44 to 0.84. Cronbach's alpha was high for each PROMIS PF short form ( α = 0.88-0.96). The full PROMIS PF bank and most short forms correlated highly with the SF-36 PF-10 ( r = 0.85-0.90), with the exception of PROMIS Upper Extremity ( r = 0.64). PROMIS Upper Extremity showed ceiling effects and lower agreement with the full bank than other short forms. Unidimensionality was supported for all PROMIS PF measures using traditional factor analysis and nonparametric item response theory. The German PROMIS PF bank was found to be conceptually equivalent to the English version and fulfilled the psychometric requirements for use of short forms in clinical practice. Future studies should pay particular attention to samples with upper extremity functional limitations to further investigate the dimensional structure of PF as conceptualized according to PROMIS.
Assumpção, Ana; Matsutani, Luciana A; Yuan, Susan L; Santo, Adriana S; Sauer, Juliana; Mango, Pamela; Marques, Amelia P
2017-11-29
Exercise therapy is an effective component of fibromyalgia (FM) treatment. However, it is important to know the effects and specificities of the different types of exercise: muscle stretching and resistance training. To verify and compare the effectiveness of muscle stretching exercise and resistance training for symptoms and quality of life in FM patients. Randomized controlled trial. Physical therapy service, FM outpatient clinic. Forty-four women with FM (79 screened). Patients were randomly allocated into a stretching group (n=14), resistance group (n=16), and control group (n=14). Pain was assessed using the visual analog scale, pain threshold using a Fischer dolorimeter, FM symptoms using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), and quality of life using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short- Form Health Survey (SF-36). The three intervention groups continued with usual medical treatment. In addition, the stretching and resistance groups performed two different exercise programs twice a week for 12 weeks. After treatment, the stretching group showed the highest SF-36 physical functioning score (p=0.01) and the lowest bodily pain score (p=0.01). The resistance group had the lowest FIQ depression score (p=0.02). The control group had the highest score for FIQ morning tiredness and stiffness, and the lowest score for SF-36 vitality. In clinical analyses, the stretching group had significant improvement in quality of life for all SF-36 domains, and the resistance group had significant improvement in FM symptoms and in quality of life for SF-36 domains of physical functioning, vitality, social function, emotional role, and mental health. Muscle stretching exercise was the most effective modality in improving quality of life, especially with regard to physical functioning and pain, and resistance training was the most effective modality in reducing depression. The trial included a control group and two intervention groups, both of which received exercise
Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
2010-05-28
... SF50 airplanes. 1. Function and Reliability Testing Flight tests: In place of 14 CFR part 21.35(b)(2... Reliability Testing AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed special..., 1951, and deleted the service test requirements in Section 3.19 for airplanes of 6,000 pounds maximum...
Engbert, Kai; Weber, Michaela
2011-05-15
A randomized controlled study investigated the effects of therapeutic climbing in patients with chronic low back pain. Before and after 4 weeks of training, physical and mental well-being were measured by two questionnaires (36-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-36]; Hannover Functional Ability Questionnaire for measuring back pain-related disability [FFbH-R]). Therapeutic climbing has been suggested to increase muscular strength and perceived physical and mental well-being. This study focused on the psychological effects of therapeutic climbing and compared it with standard exercise therapy. Therapeutic climbing has become increasingly popular in rehabilitation and its effects on muscular strengthening have been shown. Therapeutic climbing has also been suggested to yield psychological effects such as changes in attentional focus from pain to physical capabilities. To date, no controlled clinical trial has investigated these psychological effects and it is unclear whether therapeutic climbing is comparable or superior to other forms of exercise. Twenty-eight patients with chronic low back pain conducted either a therapeutic climbing or a standard exercise regime. Each program took 4 weeks, including four guided training sessions per week. Before and after the program, patients answered two questionnaires assessing their physical and mental well-being. For the Hannover Functional Ability Questionnaire for measuring back pain-related disability, there was no difference before versus after or between the treatments. For the SF-36, both treatments showed significant improvements in 3/8 subscales of the SF-36. In 2/8 subscales, only the participants of the therapeutic climbing improved and in 1/8 subscales the converse was true. Comparing both groups, significantly larger improvements were found after therapeutic climbing in two subscales of the SF-36: physical functioning and general health perception. The benefits of therapeutic climbing were comparable with those of
Hartman, Esther; Smith, Joanne; Houwen, Suzanne; Visscher, Chris
2017-05-01
Children with intellectual disabilities (ID) or borderline intellectual disabilities (BIF) often demonstrate impairments in executive functioning (EF). Studies in typically developing children show that aerobic fitness (AF) is positively related with EF. Skill-related physical fitness (SF) might, however, be a stronger predictor of EF than AF, as cognitive challenges are inherent in application of these skills. In this study, AF and SF were examined simultaneously in relationship with domains of EF in children with ID or BIF. Seventy-three children (age range 8-11; 51 boys) with ID (IQ range 56-79) or BIF (IQ range 71-79) were measured annually over a period of 4 years on AF (20-m endurance shuttle run test) and SF (plate tapping and 10×5m run). EF was measured with the Stroop Color-Word test (inhibition), Trailmaking and Fluency test (cognitive flexibility), Self-ordered pointing task (working memory) and the Tower of London (planning). Multilevel models showed that SF was significantly associated with inhibition and both measures of cognitive flexibility, but in the same models no significant associations between AF and EF were found. In addition, age was significantly related to working memory and cognitive flexibility, favouring the older children. In children with ID or BIF, SF is of greater importance than AF in relationship with core domains of EF. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Prévost, Alain; Lafitte, Marianne; Pucheu, Yann; Couffinhal, Thierry
2015-03-01
Supervised exercise programs increase physical performance in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). However, there are a limited number of programs, and to date they have failed to provide evidence of long-term adherence to exercise or any meaningful effect on Quality of Life (QoL). We created a program of therapeutic education and a personalized program of reconditioning exercise for patients with PAD. Patients with an ankle-brachial index (ABI) below 0.9 in at least one limb, and an absolute claudication distance (ACD) ≤500 meters, were included in the study. Quality of Life (QoL) as measured by SF-36, cardiovascular risk factors and functional parameters were evaluated at 0, 3, 6 and 12 months. Forty-six patients completed the program. Cardiovascular risks were controlled and stabilized over time. SF-36 scores improved significantly and remained stable. Initial and absolute claudication distance (ICD and ACD) as well as other functional parameters improved significantly (6 months: +138 m or +203% ICD and +139 m or +84% ACD). Ten patients (22%) did not show improvement in ICD or ACD within the first 3 months, but their SF-36 score did increase at subsequent visits. Interestingly, these patients had a significantly lower ACD at baseline. This study measured beneficial effects of an educational therapeutic program for patients with PAD. The results demonstrate a significant improvement in functional and QoL parameters during the first 3 months of coaching, and long-term persistence of the results even when patients were no longer coached. © The European Society of Cardiology 2013 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.
Relationship of weight status with mental and physical health in female fibromyalgia patients.
Aparicio, Virginia A; Ortega, Francisco B; Carbonell-Baeza, Ana; Camiletti, Daniel; Ruiz, Jonatan R; Delgado-Fernández, Manuel
2011-01-01
To analyze the association of weight status with anxiety, depression, quality of life and physical fitness in fibromyalgia (FM) patients. The sample comprised 175 Spanish female FM patients (51.2 ± 7 years). We assessed quality of life by means of the Short-Form-36 Health Survey (SF36) and anxiety and depression by means of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). We used standardized fieldbased fitness tests to assess cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, agility, and static and dynamic balance. BMI was calculated and categorized using the international criteria. 33% of the sample was normal-weight, 35% overweight and 33% obese. HADS-anxiety and HADS-depression levels increased across the weight status categories. Obese patients had higher anxiety and depression levels compared to normal-weight patients (p < 0.05) whereas no differences were observed between overweight and obese patients. Physical functioning, bodily pain, general health (all p < 0.01) and mental health (p < 0.05) subscales from the SF36 were worse across the weight status categories. Likewise, levels of cardiorespiratory fitness, dynamic balance/motor agility (both p < 0.05) and upper-body flexibility (p < 0.001) decreased as the weight status increased. Pairwise comparisons showed significant differences mainly between the normal-weight versus obese groups. Obese female FM patients displayed higher levels of anxiety and depression and worse quality of life, cardiorespiratory fitness, dynamic balance/motor agility and upper-body flexibility than their normal-weight peers. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.
Association between Physical Fitness and Successful Aging in Taiwanese Older Adults.
Lin, Pay-Shin; Hsieh, Chih-Chin; Cheng, Huey-Shinn; Tseng, Tsai-Jou; Su, Shin-Chang
2016-01-01
Population aging is escalating in numerous countries worldwide; among them is Taiwan, which will soon become an aged society. Thus, aging successfully is an increasing concern. One of the factors for achieving successful aging (SA) is maintaining high physical function. The purpose of this study was to determine the physical fitness factors associated with SA in Taiwanese older adults (OAs), because these factors are intervenable. Community-dwelling OAs aged more than 65 years and residing in Northern Taiwan were recruited in this study. They received a comprehensive geriatric assessment, which includes sociodemographic data, health conditions and behaviors, activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental ADL (IADL) function, cognitive and depressive status, and quality of life. Physical fitness tests included the grip strength (GS), 30-second sit-to-stand (30s STS), timed up-and-go (TUG), functional reach (FR), one-leg standing, chair sit-and-reach, and reaction time (drop ruler) tests as well as the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). SA status was defined as follows: complete independence in performing ADL and IADL, satisfactory cognitive status (Mini-Mental State Examination ≥ 24), no depression (Geriatric Depression Scale < 5), and favorable social function (SF subscale ≥ 80 in SF-36). Adjusted multiple logistic regression analyses were performed. Among the total recruited OAs (n = 378), 100 (26.5%) met the aforementioned SA criteria. After adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics and health condition and behaviors, some physical fitness tests, namely GS, 30s STS, 6MWT, TUG, and FR tests, were significantly associated with SA individually, but not in the multivariate model. Among the physical fitness variables tested, cardiopulmonary endurance, mobility, muscle strength, and balance were significantly associated with SA in Taiwanese OAs. Early detection of deterioration in the identified functions and corresponding intervention is essential to ensuring SA.
Association between Physical Fitness and Successful Aging in Taiwanese Older Adults
Cheng, Huey-Shinn; Tseng, Tsai-Jou; Su, Shin-Chang
2016-01-01
Population aging is escalating in numerous countries worldwide; among them is Taiwan, which will soon become an aged society. Thus, aging successfully is an increasing concern. One of the factors for achieving successful aging (SA) is maintaining high physical function. The purpose of this study was to determine the physical fitness factors associated with SA in Taiwanese older adults (OAs), because these factors are intervenable. Community-dwelling OAs aged more than 65 years and residing in Northern Taiwan were recruited in this study. They received a comprehensive geriatric assessment, which includes sociodemographic data, health conditions and behaviors, activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental ADL (IADL) function, cognitive and depressive status, and quality of life. Physical fitness tests included the grip strength (GS), 30-second sit-to-stand (30s STS), timed up-and-go (TUG), functional reach (FR), one-leg standing, chair sit-and-reach, and reaction time (drop ruler) tests as well as the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). SA status was defined as follows: complete independence in performing ADL and IADL, satisfactory cognitive status (Mini-Mental State Examination ≥ 24), no depression (Geriatric Depression Scale < 5), and favorable social function (SF subscale ≥ 80 in SF-36). Adjusted multiple logistic regression analyses were performed. Among the total recruited OAs (n = 378), 100 (26.5%) met the aforementioned SA criteria. After adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics and health condition and behaviors, some physical fitness tests, namely GS, 30s STS, 6MWT, TUG, and FR tests, were significantly associated with SA individually, but not in the multivariate model. Among the physical fitness variables tested, cardiopulmonary endurance, mobility, muscle strength, and balance were significantly associated with SA in Taiwanese OAs. Early detection of deterioration in the identified functions and corresponding intervention is essential to ensuring SA
Scholten, A C; Haagsma, J A; Andriessen, T M J C; Vos, P E; Steyerberg, E W; van Beeck, E F; Polinder, S
2015-04-01
The Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) is the established functional outcome scale to assess disability following traumatic brain injury (TBI), however does not capture the patient's subjective perspective. Health-related quality of life (HRQL) does capture the individual's perception of disability after TBI, and has therefore been recognized as an important outcome in TBI. In contrast to GOSE, HRQL enables comparison of health outcome across various disease states and with healthy individuals. We aimed to assess functional outcome, HRQL, recovery, and predictors of 6 and 12-month outcome in a comprehensive sample of patients with mild, moderate or severe TBI, and to examine the relationship between functional impairment (GOSE) and HRQL. A prospective cohort study was conducted among a sample of 2066 adult TBI patients who attended the emergency department (ED). GOSE was determined through questionnaires or structured interviews. Questionnaires 6 and 12 months after ED treatment included socio-demographic information and HRQL measured with Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36; reflecting physical, mental and social functioning) and Perceived Quality of Life Scale (PQoL; measuring degree of satisfaction with functioning). 996 TBI survivors with mild, moderate or severe TBI completed the 6-month questionnaire. Functional outcome and HRQL after moderate or severe TBI was significantly lower than after mild TBI. Patients with moderate TBI showed greatest improvement. After one year, the mild TBI group reached outcomes comparable to population norms. TBI of all severities highly affected SF-36 domains physical and social functioning, and physical and emotional role functioning. GOSE scores were highly related to all SF-36 domains and PQoL scores. Female gender, older age, co-morbidity and high ISS were strongest independent predictors of decreased HRQL at 6 and 12 months after TBI. HRQL and recovery patterns differ for mild, moderate and severe TBI. This study indicates
36 CFR 1210.52 - Financial reporting.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-07-01
... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Financial reporting. 1210.52....52 Financial reporting. (a) The following forms or such other forms as may be approved by OMB are authorized for obtaining financial information from recipients. (1) SF-269 or SF-269A, Financial Status...
36 CFR 1210.52 - Financial reporting.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR
2011-07-01
... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Financial reporting. 1210.52....52 Financial reporting. (a) The following forms or such other forms as may be approved by OMB are authorized for obtaining financial information from recipients. (1) SF-269 or SF-269A, Financial Status...
Karahan, Ali Yavuz; Tok, Fatih; Taşkın, Halil; Kuçuksaraç, Seher; Başaran, Aynur; Yıldırım, Pelin
2015-11-01
To compare the effects of exergames (EGs) using the Xbox Kinect™ device and home exercise (HE) on balance, functional mobility, and quality of life of individuals aged 65 years or older. One hundred participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomized to the EG or HE group. The EG group took part in a 6-week programme using the Xbox360Kinect™ device, and the HE group took part in a 6-week balance exercise programme at home 5 days a week. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) was used to assess balance, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was used to evaluate functional walking, and the Short Form 36 (SF-36) was used to assess quality of life. Forty-eight participants in the EG group and 42 participants in the HE group completed the study. The groups were similar in terms of age, sex, and pretreatment values of BBS, TUG, and SF-36. Although the BBS scores of both groups improved significantly (all p<0.05), the post-treatment scores of the EG group were better than those of the HE group. The TUG scores improved only in the EG group (p<0.05). The increase in the BBS scores and decrease in the TUG test scores were significant only in the EG group (all p<0.05). A significant improvement was also observed in the quality of life parameters of physical functioning, social role functioning, physical role restriction, general health perceptions, and physical component scores in the post-exercise evaluations of the EG group. The participants commented that they found the EG programme very entertaining. The EG can be considered a safe, entertaining and sustainable alternative to HE programmes, and it may have positive effects on balance, functional walking and quality of life in geriatric subjects. Copyright© by the National Institute of Public Health, Prague 2015.
Physical Properties of AZ91D Measured Using the Draining Crucible Method: Effect of SF6
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Roach, Steven J.; Henein, Hani
2012-03-01
The draining crucible (DC) technique was used for measurements on AZ91D under Ar and SF6. The DC technique is a new method developed to simultaneously measure the physical properties of fluids, the density, surface tension, and viscosity. Based on the relationship between the height of a metal in a crucible and the outgoing flow rate, a multi-variable regression is used to calculate the values of these fluid properties. Experiments performed with AZ91D at temperatures from 923 K to 1173 K indicate that under argon, the surface tension (N · m-1) and density (kg · m-3) are [0.63 - 2.13 × 10-4 ( T - T L)] and [1656 - 0.158 ( T - T L)], respectively. The viscosity (Pa · s) has been determined to be [1.455 × 10-3 - 1.209 × 10-5 ( T - T L)] over the temperature range from 921 K to 967 K superheat. Above 967 K, the viscosity of the alloy under argon seems to be constant at (2.66 × 10-4 ± 8.67 × 10-5) Pa · s. SF6 reduces the surface tension of AZ91D.
Wee, Christina C; Davis, Roger B; Huskey, Karen W; Jones, Daniel B; Hamel, Mary B
2013-02-01
Obesity is a stigmatizing condition associated with adverse psychosocial consequences. The relative importance of weight stigma in reducing health utility or the value a person places on their current health state is unknown. We conducted a telephone survey of patients with obesity. All were seeking weight loss surgery at two bariatric centers (70 % response rate). We assessed patients' health utility (preference-based quality life measure) via a series of standard gamble scenarios assessing patients' willingness to risk death to lose various amounts of weight or achieve perfect health (range 0 to 1; 0 = death and 1 = most valued health/weight state). Multivariable models assessed associations among quality of life domains from the Short-form 36 (SF-36) and Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-lite (IWQOL-lite) and patients' health utility. Our study sample (n = 574) had a mean body mass index of 46.5 kg/m(2) and a mean health utility of 0.87, reflecting the group's average willingness to accept a 13 % risk of death to achieve their most desired health/weight state; utilities were highly variable, however, with 10 % reporting a utility of 1.00 and 27 % reporting a utility lower than 0.90. Among the IWQOL-lite subscales, Public Distress and Work Life were the only two subscales significantly associated with patients' utility after adjustment for sociodemographic factors. Among the SF-36 subscales, Role Physical, Physical Functioning, and Role Emotional were significantly associated with patients' utility. When the leading subscales on both IWQOL-lite and SF-36 were considered together, Role Physical, Public Distress, and to a lesser degree Role Emotional remained independently associated with patients' health utility. Patients seeking weight loss surgery report health utilities similar to those reported for people living with diabetes or with laryngeal cancer; however, utility values varied widely with more than a quarter of patients willing to accept more than a
Associations of Mental Health and Physical Function with Colonoscopy-related Pain
Yamada, Eiji; Watanabe, Seitaro; Nakajima, Atsushi
2017-01-01
Objective To clarify the effects of mental health and physical function in association with colonoscopy-related pain. Methods The mental health and physical function were evaluated using the Japanese version of the SF-8 Health Survey questionnaire. Poor physical status was defined as a physical component summary (PCS) <40 and poor mental status as a mental component summary (MCS) <40. Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS), with significant pain defined as VAS ≥70 mm and insignificant pain as VAS <70 mm. The background and colonoscopic findings were compared in patients with significant and insignificant pain. Patients This study evaluated consecutive Japanese patients who were positive on fecal occult blood tests and underwent total colonoscopy. Results Of the 100 patients, 23 had significant and 77 had insignificant colonoscopy-related pain. A multiple logistic regression analysis showed that MCS <40 [odds ratio (OR) 6.03; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41-25.9, p=0.0156], PCS <40 (OR 5.96; 95% CI 1.45-24.5, p=0.0133), and ≥300 seconds to reach the cecum (OR 4.13; 95% CI 1.16-14.7, p=0.0281) were independent risk factors for colonoscopy-related pain. Conclusion The mental health and physical function are important determinants of colonoscopy-related pain. Evaluating the mental health and physical function of patients prior to colonoscopy may effectively predict the degree of colonoscopy-related pain. PMID:28202858
Associations of Mental Health and Physical Function with Colonoscopy-related Pain.
Yamada, Eiji; Watanabe, Seitaro; Nakajima, Atsushi
2017-01-01
Objective To clarify the effects of mental health and physical function in association with colonoscopy-related pain. Methods The mental health and physical function were evaluated using the Japanese version of the SF-8 Health Survey questionnaire. Poor physical status was defined as a physical component summary (PCS) <40 and poor mental status as a mental component summary (MCS) <40. Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS), with significant pain defined as VAS ≥70 mm and insignificant pain as VAS <70 mm. The background and colonoscopic findings were compared in patients with significant and insignificant pain. Patients This study evaluated consecutive Japanese patients who were positive on fecal occult blood tests and underwent total colonoscopy. Results Of the 100 patients, 23 had significant and 77 had insignificant colonoscopy-related pain. A multiple logistic regression analysis showed that MCS <40 [odds ratio (OR) 6.03; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41-25.9, p=0.0156], PCS <40 (OR 5.96; 95% CI 1.45-24.5, p=0.0133), and ≥300 seconds to reach the cecum (OR 4.13; 95% CI 1.16-14.7, p=0.0281) were independent risk factors for colonoscopy-related pain. Conclusion The mental health and physical function are important determinants of colonoscopy-related pain. Evaluating the mental health and physical function of patients prior to colonoscopy may effectively predict the degree of colonoscopy-related pain.
Donini, Lorenzo M.; Merola, Gianluca; Poggiogalle, Eleonora; Lubrano, Carla; Gnessi, Lucio; Mariani, Stefania; Migliaccio, Silvia; Lenzi, Andrea
2016-01-01
Background: Obesity represents a major health hazard, affecting morbidity, psychological status, physical functionality, quality of life, and mortality. The aim of the present study was to explore the differences between metabolically healthy (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy (MUO) obese subjects with regard to physical activity, disability, and health-related quality of life (HR-QoL). Methods: All subjects underwent a multidimensional evaluation, encompassing the assessment of body composition, metabolic biomarkers and inflammation, physical activity level (IPAQ questionnaire), disability (TSD-OC test), and HR-QoL (SF-36 questionnaire). MHO and MUO were defined based on the absence or the presence of the metabolic syndrome, respectively. Results: 253 subjects were included (54 men and 199 women; age: 51.7 ± 12.8 vs. 50.3 ± 11.7 years, p = 0.46; BMI: 38.1 ± 5.7 vs. 38.9 ± 6.7 kg/m2, p = 0.37). No significant difference was observed in body composition. There was no difference between MHO and MUO considering inflammation (hs-CRP: 6517.1 ± 11,409.9 vs. 5294.1 ± 5612.2 g/L; p = 0.37), physical inactivity (IPAQ score below 3000 METs-min/week in 77.6% of MHO vs. 80% of MUO subjects; p = 0.36), obesity-related disability (TSD-OC score > 33%, indicating a high level of obesity-related disability, in 20.2% of MHO vs. 26.5% of MUO subjects; p = 0.28), and the HR-QoL (SF-36 total score: 60 ± 20.8 vs. 62.8 ± 18.2, p = 0.27). Discussion and Conclusion: The metabolic comorbidity and the impairment of functional ability and psycho-social functioning may have a different timing in the natural history of obesity. Alterations in the physical activity level and mobility disabilities may precede the onset of metabolic abnormalities. (Trial registration 2369 prot 166/12—registered 23 February 2012; Amendment 223/14—registered 13 February 2014). PMID:27897994
Donini, Lorenzo M; Merola, Gianluca; Poggiogalle, Eleonora; Lubrano, Carla; Gnessi, Lucio; Mariani, Stefania; Migliaccio, Silvia; Lenzi, Andrea
2016-11-25
Obesity represents a major health hazard, affecting morbidity, psychological status, physical functionality, quality of life, and mortality. The aim of the present study was to explore the differences between metabolically healthy (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy (MUO) obese subjects with regard to physical activity, disability, and health-related quality of life (HR-QoL). All subjects underwent a multidimensional evaluation, encompassing the assessment of body composition, metabolic biomarkers and inflammation, physical activity level (IPAQ questionnaire), disability (TSD-OC test), and HR-QoL (SF-36 questionnaire). MHO and MUO were defined based on the absence or the presence of the metabolic syndrome, respectively. 253 subjects were included (54 men and 199 women; age: 51.7 ± 12.8 vs. 50.3 ± 11.7 years, p = 0.46; BMI: 38.1 ± 5.7 vs. 38.9 ± 6.7 kg/m², p = 0.37). No significant difference was observed in body composition. There was no difference between MHO and MUO considering inflammation (hs-CRP: 6517.1 ± 11,409.9 vs. 5294.1 ± 5612.2 g/L; p = 0.37), physical inactivity (IPAQ score below 3000 METs-min/week in 77.6% of MHO vs. 80% of MUO subjects; p = 0.36), obesity-related disability (TSD-OC score > 33%, indicating a high level of obesity-related disability, in 20.2% of MHO vs. 26.5% of MUO subjects; p = 0.28), and the HR-QoL (SF-36 total score: 60 ± 20.8 vs. 62.8 ± 18.2, p = 0.27). The metabolic comorbidity and the impairment of functional ability and psycho-social functioning may have a different timing in the natural history of obesity. Alterations in the physical activity level and mobility disabilities may precede the onset of metabolic abnormalities. (Trial registration 2369 prot 166/12-registered 23 February 2012; Amendment 223/14-registered 13 February 2014).
Bode, Rita K; Lai, Jin-shei; Dineen, Kelly; Heinemann, Allen W; Shevrin, Daniel; Von Roenn, Jamie; Cella, David
2006-01-01
We expanded an existing 33-item physical function (PF) item bank with a sufficient number of items to enable computerized adaptive testing (CAT). Ten items were written to expand the bank and the new item pool was administered to 295 people with cancer. For this analysis of the new pool, seven poorly performing items were identified for further examination. This resulted in a bank with items that define an essentially unidimensional PF construct, cover a wide range of that construct, reliably measure the PF of persons with cancer, and distinguish differences in self-reported functional performance levels. We also developed a 5-item (static) assessment form ("BriefPF") that can be used in clinical research to express scores on the same metric as the overall bank. The BriefPF was compared to the PF-10 from the Medical Outcomes Study SF-36. Both short forms significantly differentiated persons across functional performance levels. While the entire bank was more precise across the PF continuum than either short form, there were differences in the area of the continuum in which each short form was more precise: the BriefPF was more precise than the PF-10 at the lower functional levels and the PF-10 was more precise than the BriefPF at the higher levels. Future research on this bank will include the development of a CAT version, the PF-CAT.
Serum Vitamin E Concentrations and Recovery of Physical Function During the Year After Hip Fracture
Miller, Ram R.; Hicks, Gregory E.; Orwig, Denise L.; Hochberg, Marc C.; Semba, Richard D.; Yu-Yahiro, Janet A.; Ferrucci, Luigi; Magaziner, Jay; Shardell, Michelle D.
2011-01-01
Background. Poor nutritional status after hip fracture is common and may contribute to physical function decline. Low serum concentrations of vitamin E have been associated with decline in physical function among older adults, but the role of vitamin E in physical recovery from hip fracture has never been explored. Methods. Serum concentrations of α- and γ-tocopherol, the two major forms of vitamin E, were measured in female hip fracture patients from the Baltimore Hip Studies cohort 4 at baseline and at 2-, 6-, and 12-month postfracture follow-up visits. Four physical function measures—Six-Minute Walk Distance, Lower Extremity Gain Scale, Short Form-36 Physical Functioning Domain, and Yale Physical Activity Survey—were assessed at 2, 6, and 12 months postfracture. Generalized estimating equations modeled the relationship between baseline and time-varying serum tocopherol concentrations and physical function after hip fracture. Results. A total of 148 women aged 65 years and older were studied. After adjusting for covariates, baseline vitamin E concentrations were positively associated with Six-Minute Walk Distance, Lower Extremity Gain Scale, and Yale Physical Activity Survey scores (p < .1) and faster improvement in Lower Extremity Gain Scale and Yale Physical Activity Survey scores (p < .008). Time-varying vitamin E was also positively associated with Six-Minute Walk Distance, Lower Extremity Gain Scale, Yale Physical Activity Survey, and Short Form-36 Physical Functioning Domain (p < .03) and faster improvement in Six-Minute Walk Distance and Short Form-36 Physical Functioning Domain (p < .07). Conclusions. Serum concentrations of both α- and γ-tocopherol were associated with better physical function after hip fracture. Vitamin E may represent a potentially modifiable factor related to recovery of postfracture physical function. PMID:21486921
Martikainen, Pekka; Lahelma, Eero; Marmot, Michael; Sekine, Michikazu; Nishi, Nobuo; Kagamimori, Sadanobu
2004-09-01
We compared the pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in physical functioning and perceived health among male and female employees in Britain, Finland and Japan. Participants were male and female public sector employees in Britain, Finland and Japan, who were economically active and 40-60 year-olds at the time of data collection. We measured perceived health and physical functioning (SF-36 physical component summary) with standardized health questionnaires. The results obtained here reconfirm the similarity of the patterns of ill-health of those with lower socioeconomic status among non-manual men and women in Britain and Finland. These data also provide good evidence for a socioeconomic gradient in ill-health among Japanese non-manual men, although this gradient was less systematic. For Japanese men poorer health of manual workers as compared to non-manual workers was well demonstrated. However, among Japanese women socioeconomic differences in health were small and inconsistent. In conclusion, Britain, Finland and Japan--representing 'liberal', 'Nordic' and 'conservative' welfare state regimes--produce broadly similar patterns of socioeconomic differences in health among men. However, different patterns of labour force participation and welfare provision in different welfare regimes may bring about different patterns of socioeconomic differences in health for working women. This is exemplified by the lack of health inequalities among employed Japanese women. Copyright 2004 Elseiver Ltd.
Han, Fucai; Banerjee, Anirban; Shen, Liang; Krishna, Lingaraj
2015-01-01
the noncompliant group. Moderately compliant patients had significantly greater scores on the Lysholm (P = .004), KOOS Sports and Recreation (P = .026), KOOS Symptoms (P = .041), KOOS Quality of Life (P = .022), and SF-36 PCS (P = .004) as compared with noncompliant patients. Conclusion: In recreational athletes, moderate to full compliance with a supervised physical therapy program predicts improved knee function and a greater chance of returning to sport 1 year after ACL reconstruction. PMID:26740958
Brazilian normative data for the Short Form 36 questionnaire, version 2.
Laguardia, Josue; Campos, Monica Rodrigues; Travassos, Claudia; Najar, Alberto Lopes; Anjos, Luiz Antonio dos; Vasconcellos, Miguel Murat
2013-12-01
The study Pesquisa Dimensões Sociais das Desigualdades (PDSD) (Social Dimensions of Inequalities) involves 12,423 randomly selected Brazilian men and women aged 18 years old or more from urban and rural areas of the five Brazilian regions, and the information collected included the SF-36 as a measure of health-related quality of life. This provided a unique opportunity to develop age and gender-adjusted normative data for the Brazilian population. Brazilian men scored substantially higher than women on all eight domains and the two summary component scales of the SF-36. Brazilians scored less than their international counterparts on almost all of SF-36 domains and both summary component scales, except on general health status (US), pain (UK) and vitality (Australia, US and Canada). The differences in the SF-36 scores between age groups, genders and countries confirm that these Brazilian norms are necessary for comparative purposes. The data will be useful for assessing the health status of the general population and of patient populations, and the effect of interventions on health-related quality of life.
Rehan, Shahid; Jaakola, Veli-Pekka
2015-10-01
Human equilibrative nucleoside transporter-1 (hENT1) is the major plasma membrane transporter involved in transportation of natural nucleosides as well as nucleoside analog drugs, used in anti-cancer and anti-viral therapies. Despite extensive biochemical and pharmacological studies, little is known about the structure-function relationship of this protein. The major obstacles to purification include a low endogenous expression level, the lack of an efficient expression and purification protocol, and the hydrophobic nature of the protein. Here, we report protein expression, purification and functional characterization of hENT1 from Sf9 insect cells. hENT1 expressed by Sf9 cells is functionally active as demonstrated by saturation binding with a Kd of 1.2±0.2nM and Bmax of 110±5pmol/mg for [(3)H]nitrobenzylmercaptopurine ribonucleoside ([(3)H]NBMPR). We also demonstrate purification of hENT1 using FLAG antibody affinity resin in lauryl maltose neopentyl glycol detergent with a Kd of 4.3±0.7nM. The yield of hENT1 from Sf9 cells was ∼0.5mg active transporter per liter of culture. The purified protein is functionally active, stable, homogenous and appropriate for further biophysical and structural studies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Liu, Hao; Wu, Andong; Mei, Long; Liu, Qingzhen
2016-01-01
Sf9, a cell line derived from Spodoptera frugiperda, is an ideal model organism for studying insect apoptosis. The first notable study that attempted to identify the apoptotic pathway in Sf9 was performed in 1997 and included the discovery of Sf-caspase-1, an effector caspase of Sf9. However, it was not until 2013 that the first initiator caspase in Sf9, SfDronc, was discovered, and the apoptotic pathway in Sf9 became clearer. In this study, we report another caspase of Sf9, SfDredd. SfDredd is highly similar to insect initiator caspase Dredd homologs. Experimentally, recombinant SfDredd underwent autocleavage and exhibited different efficiencies in cleavage of synthetic caspase substrates. This was attributed to its caspase activity for the predicted active site mutation blocked the above autocleavage and synthetic caspase substrates cleavage activity. SfDredd was capable of not only cleaving Sf-caspase-1 in vitro but also cleaving Sf-caspase-1 and inducing apoptosis when it was co-expressed with Sf-caspase-1 in Sf9 cells. The protein level of SfDredd was increased when Sf9 cells were treated by Actinomycin D, whereas silencing of SfDredd reduced apoptosis and Sf-caspase-1 cleavage induced by Actinomycin D treatment. These results clearly indicate that SfDredd functioned as an apoptotic initiator caspase. Apoptosis induced in Sf9 cells by overexpression of SfDredd alone was not as obvious as that induced by SfDronc alone, and the cleavage sites of Sf-caspase-1 for SfDredd and SfDronc are different. In addition, despite sharing a sequence homology with initiator caspases and possessing weak activity on initiator caspase substrates, SfDredd showed strong activity on effector caspase substrates, making it the only insect caspase reported so far functioning similar to human caspase-2 in this aspect. We believe that the discovery of SfDredd, and its different properties from SfDronc, will improve the understanding of apoptosis pathway in Sf9 cells. PMID:26977926
Yang, Zhouning; Zhou, Ke; Liu, Hao; Wu, Andong; Mei, Long; Liu, Qingzhen
2016-01-01
Sf9, a cell line derived from Spodoptera frugiperda, is an ideal model organism for studying insect apoptosis. The first notable study that attempted to identify the apoptotic pathway in Sf9 was performed in 1997 and included the discovery of Sf-caspase-1, an effector caspase of Sf9. However, it was not until 2013 that the first initiator caspase in Sf9, SfDronc, was discovered, and the apoptotic pathway in Sf9 became clearer. In this study, we report another caspase of Sf9, SfDredd. SfDredd is highly similar to insect initiator caspase Dredd homologs. Experimentally, recombinant SfDredd underwent autocleavage and exhibited different efficiencies in cleavage of synthetic caspase substrates. This was attributed to its caspase activity for the predicted active site mutation blocked the above autocleavage and synthetic caspase substrates cleavage activity. SfDredd was capable of not only cleaving Sf-caspase-1 in vitro but also cleaving Sf-caspase-1 and inducing apoptosis when it was co-expressed with Sf-caspase-1 in Sf9 cells. The protein level of SfDredd was increased when Sf9 cells were treated by Actinomycin D, whereas silencing of SfDredd reduced apoptosis and Sf-caspase-1 cleavage induced by Actinomycin D treatment. These results clearly indicate that SfDredd functioned as an apoptotic initiator caspase. Apoptosis induced in Sf9 cells by overexpression of SfDredd alone was not as obvious as that induced by SfDronc alone, and the cleavage sites of Sf-caspase-1 for SfDredd and SfDronc are different. In addition, despite sharing a sequence homology with initiator caspases and possessing weak activity on initiator caspase substrates, SfDredd showed strong activity on effector caspase substrates, making it the only insect caspase reported so far functioning similar to human caspase-2 in this aspect. We believe that the discovery of SfDredd, and its different properties from SfDronc, will improve the understanding of apoptosis pathway in Sf9 cells.
43 CFR 36.5 - Application review.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-10-01
... 43 Public Lands: Interior 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Application review. 36.5 Section 36.5... ACROSS, AND ACCESS INTO, CONSERVATION SYSTEM UNITS IN ALASKA § 36.5 Application review. (a) When there is... the purpose of coordinating appropriate Federal agency actions in the review and processing of the SF...
Fujii, Tsukasa; Ogino, Satoshi; Arimoto, Hiroe; Irifune, Morihiro; Iwata, Nobuko; Ookawachi, Ichiro; Kikumori, Hiroshi; Seo, Ritsu; Takeda, Mariko; Tamaki, Akiko; Baba, Kenji; Nose, Michihiro
2007-02-01
It is reported that the health-related quality of life (HRQL) is an important outcome in the Japanese Cedar Pollinosis (JCP) treatment. In Japan, the disease-specific Japan Rhino-conjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (JRQLQ) and the generic SF-36 Health Survey (SF-36) has been used. The aim of this study is to investigate more profitable QOL by using both the disease-specific questionnaire and the non-disease-specific questionnaire together. 411 patients with JCP who visited 10 ENT clinics in Osaka from March 14 to March 26 (peak pollen season) in 2005 were questioned, and 240 patients were engaged in this study as subjects. In this study, the QOL scores were evaluated using the JRQLQ and SF-8 Health Survey (Japanese Version), a new, even shorter generic health survey. Using factor analysis and the correlation matrix, we showed that the disease-specific and the general health instrument covered a different half the total measurable HRQL. There was some correlation between the SF-8 items with the JRQLQ domains. There was little correlation between the SF-8 items and symptom scores, while, there was high correlation between the JRQLQ and symptom scores. The "Usual daily activities" domain in the JRQLQ correlated with any rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms. Both JRQLQ and SF-8 can be used to assess the quality of life of patients with JCP. Each instrument measures the aspects of the HRQL that hardly overlaps. For an assessment of the HRQL in JCP that is complete and responsive both instruments should be employed together.
Di Carlo, Costantino; Sansone, Anna; De Rosa, Nicoletta; Gargano, Virginia; Tommaselli, Giovanni Antonio; Nappi, Carmine; Bifulco, Giuseppe
2014-01-01
The aim of the study was to determine the impact of etonogestrel (ENG)-implant used for contraceptive purpose on Quality of life (QoL) and on sexual function (FSF) of healthy Italian women. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) validated questionnaire were administered at baseline, 3 and 6 months after insertion of Nexplanon. The implant seems to have a positive impact on QoL after the first three months of therapy. Users showed an improved general health status and physical role status. The implant did not show negative effects on libido and on sexual function. In the first three months of treatment, users experienced a temporary reduction of vitality, mental health, social functioning and emotional role functioning, which seem to disappear after six months of therapy.
Van Dyck, Delfien; Cardon, Greet; Deforche, Benedicte; De Bourdeaudhuij, Ilse
2015-01-01
Background The transition to retirement introduces a decline in total physical activity and an increase in TV viewing time. Nonetheless, as more time becomes available, early retirement is an ideal stage to implement health interventions. Therefore, knowledge on specific determinants of physical activity and sedentary time is needed. Former work-related physical activity has been proposed as a potential determinant, but concrete evidence is lacking. The aim of this study was to examine if former work-related sitting, standing, walking or vigorous activities predict physical activity and sedentary time during early retirement. Additionally, moderating effects of educational level and physical functioning were examined. Methods In total, 392 recently retired Belgian adults (>6 months, <5 years) completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the SF-36 Health Survey and a questionnaire on sociodemographics and former work-related activities. Generalized linear regression analyses were conducted in R. Moderating effects were examined by adding cross-products to the models. Results More former work-related sitting was predictive of more screen time during retirement. Lower levels of former work-related vigorous activities and higher levels of former work-related walking were associated with respectively more cycling for transport and more walking for transport during retirement. None of the predictors significantly explained passive transportation, cycling and walking for recreation, and leisure-time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity during retirement. Several moderating effects were found, but the direction of the interactions was not univocal. Conclusions Former-work related behaviors are of limited importance to explain physical activity during early retirement, so future studies should focus on other individual, social and environmental determinants. Nonetheless, adults who previously had a sedentary job had higher levels of screen time during
Baradaran, Aslan; Ebrahimzadeh, Mohammad H; Birjandinejad, Ali; Kachooei, Amir Reza
2016-04-01
Prospective study. We aimed to validate the Persian version of the modified Oswestry disability questionnaire (MODQ) in patients with low back pain. Modified Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire is a well-known condition-specific outcome measure that helps quantify disability in patients with lumbar syndromes. To test the validity in a pilot study, the Persian MODQ was administered to 25 individuals with low back pain. We then enrolled 200 consecutive patients with low back pain to fill the Persian MODQ as well as the short form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Convergent validity of the MODQ was tested using the Spearman's correlation coefficient between the MODQ and SF-36 subscales. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach's α coefficient were measured to test the reliability between test and retest and internal consistency of all items, respectively. ICC for individual items ranged from 0.43 to 0.80 showing good reliability and reproducibility of each individual item. Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.69 showing good internal consistency across all 10 items of the Persian MODQ. Total MODQ score showed moderate to strong correlation with the eight subscales and the two domains of the SF-36. The highest correlation was between the MODQ and the physical functioning subscale of the SF-36 (r=-0.54, p<0.001) and the physical component domain of the SF-36 (r=-0.55, p<0.001) showing that MODQ is measuring what it is supposed to measure in terms of disability and physical function. Persian version of the MODQ is a valid and reliable tool for the assessment of the disability following low back pain.
Kharroubi, Samer A; Brazier, John E; McGhee, Sarah
2014-06-01
There is interest in the extent to which valuations of health may differ between different countries and cultures, but few studies have compared preference values of health states obtained in different countries. The present study applies a nonparametric model to estimate and compare two HK and UK standard gamble values for six-dimensional health state short form (derived from short-form 36 health survey) (SF-6D) health states using Bayesian methods. The data set is the HK and UK SF-6D valuation studies in which two samples of 197 and 249 states defined by the SF-6D were valued by representative samples of the HK and UK general populations, respectively, both using the standard gamble technique. We estimated a function applicable across both countries that explicitly accounts for the differences between them, and is estimated using the data from both countries. The results suggest that differences in SF-6D health state valuations between the UK and HK general populations are potentially important. In particular, the valuations of Hong Kong were meaningfully higher than those of the United Kingdom for most of the selected SF-6D health states. The magnitude of these country-specific differences in health state valuation depended, however, in a complex way on the levels of individual dimensions. The new Bayesian nonparametric method is a powerful approach for analyzing data from multiple nationalities or ethnic groups to understand the differences between them and potentially to estimate the underlying utility functions more efficiently. Copyright © 2014 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
TM4SF5-Mediated Roles in the Development of Fibrotic Phenotypes
Ryu, Jihye
2017-01-01
Transmembrane 4 L six family member 5 (TM4SF5) can form tetraspanin-enriched microdomains (TERMs) on the cell's surface. TERMs contain protein-protein complexes comprised of tetraspanins, growth factor receptors, and integrins. These complexes regulate communication between extracellular and intracellular spaces to control diverse cellular functions. TM4SF5 influences the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), aberrant multilayer cellular growth, drug resistance, enhanced migration and invasion, circulation through the bloodstream, tumor-initiation property, metastasis, and muscle development in zebrafish. Here, current data on TM4SF5's roles in the development of fibrotic phenotypes are reviewed. TM4SF5 is induced by transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) signaling via a collaboration with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation. TM4SF5, by itself or in concert with other receptors, transduces signals intracellularly. In hepatocytes, TM4SF5 expression regulates cell cycle progression, migration, and expression of extracellular matrix components. In CCl4-treated mice, TM4SF5, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and collagen I expression are observed together along the fibrotic septa regions of the liver. These fibrotic phenotypes are diminished by anti-TM4SF5 reagents, such as a specific small compound [TSAHC, 4′-(p-toluenesulfonylamido)-4-hydroxychalcone] or a chimeric antibody. This review discusses the antifibrotic strategies that target TM4SF5 and its associated protein networks that regulate the intracellular signaling necessary for fibrotic functions of hepatocytes. PMID:28458469
Narumi, S; Umehara, M; Toyoki, Y; Ishido, K; Kudo, D; Kimura, N; Kobayashi, T; Sugai, M; Hakamada, K
2012-03-01
Transplantation in Japan still depends on living donors even after the new revised law. We must pay attention to protect living donors. Perioperative qualities of life after living donation for liver transplantation were assessed with questionnaires including the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey version 2 (SF36-v2). Nonparametric Mann-Whitney tests were used to determine statistical significance. P values<.05 were considered significant. Thirty-one among 33 donors answered questionnaires (93.9%). The 15 men and 16 women of average age of 39.7 years had a median hospital stay of 16 days and median duration after surgery of 78 months. Ten of 33 (35.7%) donors considered themselves to be the only possibility. The decision to a donor was established prior to informed consent in 23 donors (74.1%). Six months were required for them to experience a full recovery after donor surgery. Hamilton depression/anxiety score was significantly increased among donors who considered themselves to be the only possibility or those who had decided prior to informed consent. SF36-v2 revealed a significant decrease in social functioning among donors who did not have sufficient time to decide before surgery. General health was significantly decreased among donors who required more than 6 months for full recovery. Perioperative management of pain influenced general health, physical role, bodily pain, and physical functioning. We must pay attention to depression and anxiety among living donors. More care should be focused on pain control and sharing of information of postoperative courses. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Afsar, Baris; Kirkpantur, Alper
2013-01-01
Cognitive impairment, depression, sleep disorders and impaired quality of life are very common in hemodialysis (HD) patients. However, whether there are any seasonal changes of cognitive impairment, depression, sleep disorders and quality of life in HD patients is not known. The laboratory parameters, depressive symptoms, health-related quality of life, sleep quality (SQ) and cognitive function, were measured twice. A total of 66 HD patients were enrolled. Pre-dialysis systolic blood pressure (BP) and pre-dialysis diastolic BP were higher, whereas predialysis creatinine and sodium were lower in January compared to July. Among domains of Short Form 36 (SF-36), physical functioning, role-physical limitation, general health perception, vitality, role emotional, Physical Component Summary Score (PCS) were higher, whereas Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score was lower in July compared to January. Stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that only change in albumin and smoking status were related with seasonal change of BDI scores. Additionally only change in Mental Component Summary score of SF-36 were related with change in PCS score of SF-36 scores. Depressive symptoms and quality of life but not SQ and cognitive function showed seasonal variability in HD patients. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Caram, Laura Miranda de Oliveira; Ferrari, Renata; Bertani, André Luís; Garcia, Thaís; Mesquita, Carolina Bonfanti; Knaut, Caroline; Tanni, Suzana Erico; Godoy, Irma
2016-01-01
The effects of tobacco smoke, mild/moderate COPD disease and their combined effect on health status (HS), body composition (BC), and exercise capacity (EC) impairment are still unclear. We hypothesized that smoking and early COPD have a joint negative influence on these outcomes. We evaluated 32 smokers (smoking history >10 pack/years), 32 mild/moderate COPD (current smokers or former smokers), and 32 never smokers. All individuals underwent medical and smoking status evaluations, pre and post-bronchodilator spirometry, BC [fat-free mass (FFM) and FFM index (FFMI)], EC [six-minute walk distance (6MWD)] and HS [Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36)]. FFM (p = 0.02) and FFMI (p = 0.008) were lower in COPD than never smokers. 6MWT, as a percentage of reference values for the Brazilian population, was lower in COPD and smokers than never smokers (p = 0.01). Smokers showed worse SF-36 score for functional capacity than never smokers (p<0.001). SF-36 score for physical functioning (p<0.001) and role-emotional (p<0.001) were impaired in COPD patients than smokers. SF-36 scores for physical functioning (p<0.001), role-physical (p = 0.01), bodily pain (p = 0.01), vitality (p = 0.04) and role-emotional (p<0.001) were lower in COPD than never smokers. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that both COPD diagnosis and smoking were inversely associated with FFMI, 6MWD and HS. Smoking and early COPD have a joint negative influence on body composition, exercise capacity and health status.
Pulewka, Kristin; Wolff, Daniel; Herzberg, Philipp Y; Greinix, Hildegard; Heussner, Pia; Mumm, Friederike H A; von Harsdorf, Stephanie; Rieger, Kathrin; Hemmati, Philipp; Hochhaus, Andreas; Hilgendorf, Inken
2017-08-01
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (alloHSCT) is physically and psychosocially demanding. Among transplant recipients, adolescent and young adults (AYA) represent a special group, as disease occurs early in life, resulting in the prospect of long survival time and high burden of alloHSCT sequelae. However, data focusing on AYA undergoing alloHSCT are rare. Data resulting from a prospective multicenter trial initially focusing on graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) after alloHSCT were reused to analyse the differences between AYA and elderly patients. In total, data of 205 alloHSCT recipients were evaluated. Patients completed the FACT-BMT, HAP, SF-36, 24-AM, LOT-R, BSSS, HADS, and GvHD questionnaires. Median age of AYA and non-AYA patients was 29 and 52 years. Using 24-AM-Test, evaluating personality traits, non-AYA reported to be more conscientious (p = 0.033). However, AYA described higher quality of life regarding physical role functioning (p = 0.001), physical functioning (p = 0.002), bodily pain (p = 0.023), and emotional role function (p = 0.027) in the SF-36. General health perception, vitality, social role functioning, and mental health were comparable among both groups. On HAP scale, AYA reported higher maximum (p = 0.003) and adjusted activity scores (p = 0.002), but showed similar restrictions regarding activity, self-supply, and self-determination. AYA represent a particular group characterized by higher physical well-being and activity scores, and significantly vary from non-AYA patients in psychosocial aspects. Studies covering distinctive features of AYA undergoing alloHSCT are warranted to improve awareness of the special needs of this group.
Greenhouse Gas Reductions: SF6
Anderson, Diana
2018-05-18
Argonne National Laboratory is leading the way in greenhouse gas reductions, particularly with the recapture and recycling of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). SF6 is a gas used in industry as an anti-arcing agent. It is an extremely potent greenhouse gas â one pound of SF6 is equivalent to 12 tons of carbon dioxide. While the U.S. does not currently regulate SF6 emissions, Argonne is proactively and voluntarily recovering and recycling to reduce SF6 emissions. Argonne saves over 16,000 tons of SF6 from being emitted into the atmosphere each year, and by recycling the gas rather than purchasing it new, we save taxpayers over $208,000 each year.
Calatayud, Joaquin; Casaña, Jose; Ezzatvar, Yasmin; Jakobsen, Markus D; Sundstrup, Emil; Andersen, Lars L
2017-09-01
The benefits of preoperative training programmes compared with alternative treatment are unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a high-intensity preoperative resistance training programme in patients waiting for total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Forty-four subjects (7 men, 37 women) scheduled for unilateral TKA for osteoarthritis (OA) during 2014 participated in this randomized controlled trial. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the Physical Functioning Scale of the Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36), a 10-cm visual analogue scale (VAS), isometric knee flexion, isometric knee extension, isometric hip abduction, active knee range of motion and functional tasks (Timed Up and Go test and Stair ascent-descent test) were assessed at 8 weeks before surgery (T1), after 8 weeks of training (T2), 1 month after TKA (T3) and finally 3 months after TKA (T4). The intervention group completed an 8-week training programme 3 days per week prior to surgery. Isometric knee flexion, isometric hip abduction, VAS, WOMAC, ROM extension and flexion and all the functional assessments were greater for the intervention group at T2, T3 and T4, whereas isometric knee extension was greater for this group at T2 and T4 compared with control. The present study supports the use of preoperative training in end-stage OA patients to improve early postoperative outcomes. High-intensity strength training during the preoperative period reduces pain and improves lower limb muscle strength, ROM and functional task performance before surgery, resulting in a reduced length of stay at the hospital and a faster physical and functional recovery after TKA. The present training programme can be used by specialists to speed up recovery after TKA. I.
Vasconcelos, Karina S S; Dias, João M D; Araújo, Marília C; Pinheiro, Ana C; Moreira, Bruno S; Dias, Rosângela C
2016-07-11
Sarcopenic obesity is associated with disability in older people, especially in women. Resistance exercises are recommended for this population, but their efficacy is not clear. To evaluate the effects of a progressive resistance exercise program with high-speed component on the physical function of older women with sarcopenic obesity. Twenty-eight women 65 to 80 years old, with a body mass index ≥30kg/m2 and handgrip strength ≤21kg were randomly allocated to two groups. The experimental group underwent a 10-week resistance exercise program designed to improve strength, power, and endurance of lower-limb muscles, with open chain and closed chain exercises. The control group had their health status monitored through telephone calls. The primary outcomes were lower limb muscle performance measured by knee extensor strength, power and fatigue by isokinetic dynamometry, and mobility measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery and by gait velocity. The secondary outcome was health-related quality of life assessed by the SF-36 Questionnaire. The average rate of adherence was 85%, with few mild adverse effects. There were no significant between-group differences for any of the outcomes. In this study, a progressive resistance exercise program with high-speed component was not effective for improving the physical function of older women with sarcopenic obesity.
Perceived quality of life in obsessive-compulsive disorder: related factors
Rodriguez-Salgado, Beatriz; Dolengevich-Segal, Helen; Arrojo-Romero, Manuel; Castelli-Candia, Paola; Navio-Acosta, Mercedes; Perez-Rodriguez, Maria M; Saiz-Ruiz, Jeronimo; Baca-Garcia, Enrique
2006-01-01
Background Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects young adults and has great impact on the social, emotional and work spheres. Methods We measured perceived quality of life (QOL) in OCD patients, in order to analyse socio-demographic and clinical factors that may be associated with QOL perception. 64 OCD outpatients were assessed with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for DSM-IV, the Yale-Brown Obsessions and Compulsions scale (Y-BOCS), Hamilton's depression scale and the SF-36 self-administered global QOL perception scale. Results We found a correlation among Hamilton's scale scores and all SF-36 subscales. The severity of the obsessive-compulsive disorder was correlated with all SF-36 subscales and with the highest scores in Hamilton's scale. The obsessions subscale was correlated to all SF-36 subscales, while the compulsions subscale was correlated only to social functioning, emotional role, mental health and vitality. Compulsions were not related to general health perception. There were significant differences between OCD patients and the Spanish general population in all SF-36 subscales except those related to physical health and pain. Gender, age, age of onset of the disorder, years of evolution and marital status of the patients did not significantly affect quality of life perception. Being employed was related to better scores in the subscale of physical role. Patients with medical comorbidity scored lower in the subscales of general health, social functioning and mental health. Patients with comorbid psychiatric disorders had worse scores in the subscales of pain, general health, social functioning and mental health. Conclusion Quality of life perception was different in OCD patients and the general population. Quality of life perception was related to severity of the disorder, physical and psychiatric comorbidity and employment status. PMID:16684346
Greenhouse Gas Reductions: SF6
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Anderson, Diana
2012-04-20
Argonne National Laboratory is leading the way in greenhouse gas reductions, particularly with the recapture and recycling of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). SF6 is a gas used in industry as an anti-arcing agent. It is an extremely potent greenhouse gas — one pound of SF6 is equivalent to 12 tons of carbon dioxide. While the U.S. does not currently regulate SF6 emissions, Argonne is proactively and voluntarily recovering and recycling to reduce SF6 emissions. Argonne saves over 16,000 tons of SF6 from being emitted into the atmosphere each year, and by recycling the gas rather than purchasing it new, we savemore » taxpayers over $208,000 each year.« less
Complications among colorectal cancer survivors: SF-6D preference-weighted quality of life scores.
Hornbrook, Mark C; Wendel, Christopher S; Coons, Stephen Joel; Grant, Marcia; Herrinton, Lisa J; Mohler, M Jane; Baldwin, Carol M; McMullen, Carmit K; Green, Sylvan B; Altschuler, Andrea; Rawl, Susan M; Krouse, Robert S
2011-03-01
Societal preference-weighted health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores enable comparing multidimensional health states across diseases and treatments for research and policy. To assess the effects of living with a permanent intestinal stoma, compared with a major bowel resection, among colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors. Cross-sectional multivariate linear regression analysis to explain preference-weighted HRQOL scores. In all, 640 CRC survivors (≥ 5 years) from 3 group model health maintenance organizations; ostomates and nonostomates with colorectal resections for CRC were matched on gender, age (± 5 years), time since diagnosis, and tumor site (rectum vs. colon). SF-6D scoring system was applied to Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 version 2 (SF-36v2); City of Hope Quality of Life-Ostomy; and Charlson-Deyo comorbidity index. Survey of CRC survivors linked to respondents' clinical data extracted from health maintenance organization files. Response rate was 52%. Ostomates and nonostomates had similar sociodemographic characteristics. Mean SF-6D score was 0.69 for ostomates, compared with 0.73 for nonostomates (P < 0.001), but other factors explained this difference. Complications of initial cancer surgery, and previous year comorbidity burden, and hospital use were negatively associated with SF-6D scores, whereas household income was positively associated. CRC survivors' SF-6D scores were not associated with living with a permanent ostomy after other factors were taken into account. Surgical complications, comorbidities, and metastatic disease lowered the preference-weighted HRQOL of CRC survivors with and without ostomies. Further research to understand and reduce late complications from CRC surgeries as well as associated depression is warranted.
COMPLICATIONS AMONG COLORECTAL CANCER SURVIVORS: SF-6D PREFERENCE-WEIGHTED QUALITY OF LIFE SCORES
Hornbrook, Mark C.; Wendel, Christopher S.; Coons, Stephen Joel; Grant, Marcia; Herrinton, Lisa J.; Mohler, M. Jane; Baldwin, Carol M.; McMullen, Carmit K.; Green, Sylvan B.; Alschuler, Andrea; Rawl, Susan M.; Krouse, Robert S.
2012-01-01
Background Societal preference-weighted health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores enable comparing multi-dimensional health states across diseases and treatments for research and policy. Objective To assess the effects of living with a permanent intestinal stoma, compared to a major bowel resection, among colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors. Research Design Cross-sectional multivariate linear regression analysis to explain preference-weighted HRQOL scores. Subjects Six-hundred-forty CRC survivors (≥5 years) from three group-model HMOs; ostomates and non-ostomates with colorectal resections for CRC were matched on gender, age (±5 years), time since diagnosis, and tumor site (rectum vs. colon). Measures SF-6D scoring system applied to Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 version 2 (SF-36v2); City of Hope Quality of Life-Ostomy (mCOH-QOL-O); Charlson-Deyo comorbidity index. Methods Survey of CRC survivors linked to respondents’ clinical data extracted from HMO files. Results Response rate was 52%. Ostomates and non-ostomates had similar sociodemographic characteristics. Mean SF-6D score was 0.69 for ostomates, compared to 0.73 for non-ostomates (p <.001), but other factors explained this difference. Complications of initial cancer surgery, and prior-year comorbidity burden and hospital use were negatively associated with SF-6D scores, while household income was positively associated. Conclusions CRC survivors’ SF-6D scores were not associated with living with a permanent ostomy after other factors were taken into account. Surgical complications, comorbidities, and metastatic disease lowered the preference-weighted HRQOL of CRC survivors with and without ostomies. Further research to understand and reduce late complications from CRC surgeries as well as associated depression is warranted. PMID:21224741
Fukuroku, Keiko; Nagano, Takuzou; Ogino, Satoshi
2002-12-01
Atopic dermatitis is a common skin disorder with an age onset mainly from infancy to adolescence. Patients with this disorder usually have a long history of repeated relief and relapse. The aim of the present studies is to quantify the relationship between the QOL score of patients and symptomatic characteristics (including severity measured by SF-36). From November 2000 to February 2001, the study recruited 281 patients with atopic dermatitis who had been treated at the Nagano dermatology and allergology clinic. The results of this study demonstrated that the symptoms severity and pruritus grade had strong influences on QOL score, and the location of pruritic lesion on the neck had the strongest influence on their self-perceived health status. The patients group with moderate atopic dermatitis who showed pruritus lesion in face, neck, and or knee, and female had consistently lower scores than male on all of the subscales. In conclusion, it is critically important to control of pruritus, and to develop an appropriate management.
Gonçalves, Rui Soles; Cabri, Jan; Pinheiro, J P
2011-01-01
The purpose of this cross sectional study was to estimate the contributions of patient characteristics to variation in joint-specific and generic health status in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients referred for physical therapy. The Portuguese Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Medical Outcomes Study - 36 item Short Form (SF-36) questionnaires, and a form for the patient characteristics (gender, age, body mass index, profession, professional situation, educational level, marital status, duration of knee OA, involved knee and walking aids) were self-administered to 377 subjects with symptomatic knee OA (282 females, 95 males; age: 67.8 ± 8.2 years). Multiple stepwise regression analyses revealed that patient characteristics explained only 9.4% to 19.7% of the variance in KOOS subscales scores, and only 1.0% to 17.2% of the variance in SF-36 subscales scores. Therefore, it can be concluded that the patient characteristics studied were limited predictors of joint-specific and generic health status in knee OA patients referred for physical therapy.
Lu, Yanxia; Nyunt, Ma Shwe Zin; Gwee, Xinyi; Feng, Liang; Feng, Lei; Kua, Ee Heok; Kumar, Rajeev; Ng, Tze Pin
2012-01-01
Objectives To investigate whether life event stress was associated with greater psychological distress and poorer quality of life in older individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), in comparison with their counterparts without COPD. Design Cross-sectional study. Participants A population-based sample (N=497) of individuals aged 65 and above with COPD (postbronchodilatation FEV1/FVC<0.70, N=136) and without COPD (N=277). Measurements We measured life event stress, depressive symptoms (GDS, Geriatric Depression Scale), cognitive symptoms and function (CFQ, Cognitive Failures Questionnaire and MMSE, Mini-Mental State Examination), and physical and mental health functional status (SF36-PCS, Physical Health Component Summary and SF36-MCS, Mental Health Component Summary) in participants with and without COPD. Results In two-way analysis of variance controlling for potential confounders, life event stress was associated with significant main effects of worse GDS (p<0.001), SF36-PCS (p=0.008) and SF36-MCS scores (p<0.001), and with significant interaction effects on GDS score (p<0.001), SF36-PCS (p=0.045) and SF36-MCS (p=0.034) in participants with COPD, more than in non-COPD participants. The main effect of COPD was found for postbronchodilator FEV1 (p<0.001) and cognitive symptoms (p=0.02). Conclusions Our findings indicate that life event stress was associated with more depressive symptoms and worse quality of life in individuals with COPD, much more than in those without COPD. Further studies should explore the role of cognitive appraisal of stress, coping resources and psycho-social support in this relationship. PMID:23166130
11. Historic American Buildings Survey S.F. Chronicle Library Collection, S.F. ...
11. Historic American Buildings Survey S.F. Chronicle Library Collection, S.F. WALLS AND TOWER AFTER DISASTER OF 1906 - St. Mary's Church, 660 California Street, San Francisco, San Francisco County, CA
Seidel, Ulla K; Gronewold, Janine; Volsek, Michaela; Todica, Olga; Kribben, Andreas; Bruck, Heike; Hermann, Dirk M
2014-01-01
Quality of life (QoL) impairment is a well-known consequence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The factors influencing QoL and late life functional health are poorly examined. Using questionnaires combined with neuropsychological examinations, we prospectively evaluated physical, cognitive, and emotional factors influencing QoL, functional health and participation in community dwelling in 119 patients with CKD stages 3-5 including hemodialysis (61.5±15.7years; 63% men) and 54 control patients of the same age without CKD but with similar cardiovascular risk profile. Compared with control patients, CKD patients showed impairment of the physical component of QoL and overall function, assessed by the SF-36 and LLFDI, whereas disability, assessed by LLFDI, was selectively impaired in CKD patients on hemodialysis. Multivariable linear regressions (forced entry) confirmed earlier findings that CKD stage (β = -0.24; p = 0.012) and depression (β = -0.30; p = 0.009) predicted the QoL physical component. Hitherto unknown, CKD stage (β = -0.23; p = 0.007), cognition (β = 0.20; p = 0.018), and depression (β = -0.51; <0.001) predicted disability assessed by the LLFDI, while age (β = -0.20; p = 0.023), male gender (B = 5.01; p = 0.004), CKD stage (β = -0.23; p = 0.005), stroke history (B = -9.00; p = 0.034), and depression (β = -0.41; p<0.001) predicted overall function. Interestingly, functional health deficits, cognitive disturbances, depression, and anxiety were evident almost only in CKD patients with coronary heart disease (found in 34.2% of CKD patients). The physical component of QoL and functional health decreased with age and depressive symptoms, and increased with cognitive abilities. In CKD, QoL, functional health, and participation in community dwelling are influenced by physical, cognitive, and emotional factors, most prominently in coronary heart disease patients.
Chenivesse, Cécile; Similowski, Thomas; Bautin, Nathalie; Fournier, Clément; Robin, Sophie; Wallaert, Benoît; Perez, Thierry
2014-03-01
Patients with hyperventilation syndrome (HVS) report severe symptom-related suffering and often complain from insufficient medical attention. However, quality of life data in this context are scarce. We aimed at assessing the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of HVS patients. Twenty-one HVS patients with extensive cardiorespiratory workup including cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) filled in the generic SF-36 questionnaire and the results were compared to French normal values. Correlations between SF36 dimensions and clinical and functional data were established. All SF-36 scores were markedly decreased in HVS patients compared to healthy subjects: Physical Functioning: 44 ± 24, Social Functioning: 57 ± 27, Role Physical: 21 ± 32, Role Emotional: 48 ± 42, Mental Health: 51 ± 27, Vitality: 34 ± 20, Body Pain: 41 ± 21, General Health: 42 ± 21. These figures were all significantly lower in the HVS patients respective to the normal reference population. They were also lower than corresponding values published in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). "Vitality" and "Physical Functioning" scores were correlated with Nijmegen score (r = -0.594, p = 0.047) and peak respiratory frequency during CPET (r = -0.644, p = 0.019). The SF-36 Social Functioning score was correlated with the ventilatory threshold (r = 0.629, p = 0.034), peak V'E/V'CO2 (ventilation/CO2 production) (r = 0.650, p = 0.016) and peak PaCO2 (r = -0.664, p = 0.027). In conclusion, this study shows that HRQoL can be severely impaired in patients with HVS, which is one more reason to take this condition seriously. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
de Luis, D A; Izaola, O; García Alonso, M; Aller, R; Cabezas, G; de la Fuente, B
2012-01-01
The aim of our study was to evaluate in patients with obesity and chronic osteoarthritis the impact on quality of life and metabolic control of a dietary intervention with a hypocaloric commercial formula. A sample of 55 obese patients with chronic osteoarthritis was enrolled. The study consisted of a 12-week weight reduction program where the participants received an oral diet replaced with 2 bricks of Optisource Plus®. In order to assess the effect of weight loss on different parameters, patients were divided in two groups by the median of weight loss percentage (9%); group 1 (< 9%) and group 2 (> 9%). In group 2, patients showed an improvement in total SF-36 score (4.0 ± 6.1 points), physical function domain of SF 36 (1.8 ± 3.4 points), role physical domain of SF 36 (0.6 ± 1.6 points) and vitality domain of SF 36 (2.7 ± 4.6 points) improved. Total score of WOMAC test (- 8.2 ± 15.0 points), function domain of WOMAC test (- 6.5 ± 10.6 points) and stiffness domain of WOMAC test (-0.7 ± 2.1 points) improved, too. The effect on metabolic response, functionality and quality of life was better in patients with a percentage of weight loss > 9% than patients with a lower weight loss.
Valuing SF-6D Health States Using a Discrete Choice Experiment.
Norman, Richard; Viney, Rosalie; Brazier, John; Burgess, Leonie; Cronin, Paula; King, Madeleine; Ratcliffe, Julie; Street, Deborah
2014-08-01
SF-6D utility weights are conventionally produced using a standard gamble (SG). SG-derived weights consistently demonstrate a floor effect not observed with other elicitation techniques. Recent advances in discrete choice methods have allowed estimation of utility weights. The objective was to produce Australian utility weights for the SF-6D and to explore the application of discrete choice experiment (DCE) methods in this context. We hypothesized that weights derived using this method would reflect the largely monotonic construction of the SF-6D. We designed an online DCE and administered it to an Australia-representative online panel (n = 1017). A range of specifications investigating nonlinear preferences with respect to additional life expectancy were estimated using a random-effects probit model. The preferred model was then used to estimate a preference index such that full health and death were valued at 1 and 0, respectively, to provide an algorithm for Australian cost-utility analyses. Physical functioning, pain, mental health, and vitality were the largest drivers of utility weights. Combining levels to remove illogical orderings did not lead to a poorer model fit. Relative to international SG-derived weights, the range of utility weights was larger with 5% of health states valued below zero. s. DCEs can be used to investigate preferences for health profiles and to estimate utility weights for multi-attribute utility instruments. Australian cost-utility analyses can now use domestic SF-6D weights. The comparability of DCE results to those using other elicitation methods for estimating utility weights for quality-adjusted life-year calculations should be further investigated. © The Author(s) 2013.
Castillo-Carandang, Nina T; Sison, Olivia T; Grefal, Mary Lenore; Sy, Rody G; Alix, Oliver C; Llanes, Elmer Jasper B; Reganit, Paul Ferdinand M; Gumatay, Allan Wilbert G; Punzalan, Felix Eduardo R; Velandria, Felicidad V; Tai, E Shyong; Wee, Hwee-Lin
2013-01-01
To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Philippines (Tagalog) Short Form 36 Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2(®)) standard questionnaire among Filipinos residing in two cities. The official Philippines (Tagalog) SF-36v2 standard (4-week recall) version was pretested on 30 participants followed by formal and informal cognitive debriefing. To obtain the feedback on translation by bilingual respondents, each SF-36v2 question was stated first in English followed by Tagalog. No revisions to the original questionnaire were needed except that participants thought it was appropriate to incorporate "po" in the instructions to make it more polite. Face-to-face interviews of 562 participants aged 20-50 years living in two barangays (villages) in the highly urbanized city of Makati City (Metro Manila) and in urban and rural barangays in Tanauan City (province of Batangas) were subsequently conducted. Content validity, item level validity, reliability and factor structure of the SF-36v2 (Tagalog) were examined. Content validity of the SF-36v2 was assessed to be adequate for assessing health status among Filipinos. Item means of Philippines (Tagalog) SF-36v2 were similar with comparable scales in the US English, Singapore (English and Chinese) and Thai SF-36 version 1. Item-scale correlation exceeded 0.4 for all items except the bathing item in PF (correlation: 0.31). In exploratory factor analysis, the US two-component model was supported. However, in confirmatory factor analysis, the Japanese three-component model fit the Tagalog data better than the US two-component model. The Philippines (Tagalog) SF-36v2 is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring health status among residents of Makati City (Metro Manila) and Tanauan City (Province of Batangas).
Castillo-Carandang, Nina T.; Sison, Olivia T.; Grefal, Mary Lenore; Sy, Rody G.; Alix, Oliver C.; Llanes, Elmer Jasper B.; Reganit, Paul Ferdinand M.; Gumatay, Allan Wilbert G.; Punzalan, Felix Eduardo R.; Velandria, Felicidad V.; Tai, E. Shyong; Wee, Hwee-Lin
2013-01-01
Objective To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Philippines (Tagalog) Short Form 36 Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2®) standard questionnaire among Filipinos residing in two cities. Study Design and Setting The official Philippines (Tagalog) SF-36v2 standard (4-week recall) version was pretested on 30 participants followed by formal and informal cognitive debriefing. To obtain the feedback on translation by bilingual respondents, each SF-36v2 question was stated first in English followed by Tagalog. No revisions to the original questionnaire were needed except that participants thought it was appropriate to incorporate "po" in the instructions to make it more polite. Face-to-face interviews of 562 participants aged 20-50 years living in two barangays (villages) in the highly urbanized city of Makati City (Metro Manila) and in urban and rural barangays in Tanauan City (province of Batangas) were subsequently conducted. Content validity, item level validity, reliability and factor structure of the SF-36v2 (Tagalog) were examined. Results Content validity of the SF-36v2 was assessed to be adequate for assessing health status among Filipinos. Item means of Philippines (Tagalog) SF-36v2 were similar with comparable scales in the US English, Singapore (English and Chinese) and Thai SF-36 version 1. Item-scale correlation exceeded 0.4 for all items except the bathing item in PF (correlation: 0.31). In exploratory factor analysis, the US two-component model was supported. However, in confirmatory factor analysis, the Japanese three-component model fit the Tagalog data better than the US two-component model. Conclusions The Philippines (Tagalog) SF-36v2 is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring health status among residents of Makati City (Metro Manila) and Tanauan City (Province of Batangas). PMID:24386281
Fjermestad, Krister W; Stokke, Simen
2018-01-01
More knowledge is needed about men with sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCA). We present self-reported data from 53 men with SCA (M age = 36.8 years, SD = 12.3, range 19-67). The Health Survey-Short Form (SF-36) measured eight health domains (physical functioning, role-physical, role-emotional, vitality, emotional health, social functioning, pain, general health). The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index measured sleep problems. The Personal Wellbeing Index measured satisfaction with eight life domains. Compared to norms, SCA reported poorer health (mean d = -0.80) and more sleep problems (mean d = -0.85). Differences between SCA and norms on personal well-being were small, except lower health satisfaction in SCA (d = -1.06). Seven of eight regression models predicting the SF-36 domains from life satisfaction and sleep problems were significant (explained variance 12.2% to 46.2%), except physical functioning (ns). Clinical assessment/intervention for a broad range of health and sleep problems is indicated for men with SCA.
Smart SfM: Salinas Archaeological Museum
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Inzerillo, L.
2017-08-01
In these last years, there has been an increasing use of the Structure from Motion (SfM) techniques applied to Cultural Heritage. The accessibility of SfM software can be especially advantageous to users in non-technical fields or to those with limited resources. Thanks to SfM using, everyone can make with a digital camera a 3D model applied to an object of both Cultural Heritage, and physically Environment, and work arts, etc. One very interesting and useful application can be envisioned into museum collection digitalization. In the last years, a social experiment has been conducted involving young generation to live a social museum using their own camera to take pictures and videos. Students of university of Catania and Palermo were involved into a national event #digitalinvasion (2015-2016 editions) offering their personal contribution: they realized 3D models of the museums collection through the SfM techniques. In particular at the National Archaeological Museum Salinas in Palermo, it has been conducted an organized survey to recognize the most important part of the archaeological collection. It was a success: in both #digitalinvasion National Event 2015 and 2016 the young students of Engineering classes carried out, with Photoscan Agisoft, more than one hundred 3D models some of which realized by phone camera and some other by reflex camera and some other with compact camera too. The director of the museum has been very impressed from these results and now we are going to collaborate at a National project to use the young generation crowdsourcing to realize a semi-automated monitoring system at Salinas Archaeological Museum.
2014-10-01
physical functioning, role- physical, role- emotional , bodily pain, pretreatment vitality, mental health, social functioning and general Downloaded from...SF-36 Scores:1 Physical functioning 55.2 ± 31 Role-physical 35.5 ± 44 Role- emotional 57.4 ±46 Bodily pain...on dual processing theory, which takes into account analytical as well as emotional , intuitive processes (see Appendix). Palliative Care versus
Vilagut, Gemma; Ferrer, Montse; Rajmil, Luis; Rebollo, Pablo; Permanyer-Miralda, Gaietà; Quintana, José M; Santed, Rosalía; Valderas, José M; Ribera, Aida; Domingo-Salvany, Antonia; Alonso, Jordi
2005-01-01
The Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) is one of the most widely used and evaluated generic health-related quality of life (HRQL) questionnaires. After almost a decade of use in Spain, the present article critically reviews the content and metric properties of the Spanish version, as well as its new developments. A review of indexed articles that used the Spanish version of the SF-36 was performed in Medline (PubMed), the Spanish bibliographic databases IBECS and IME. Articles that provided information on the measurement model, reliability, validity, and responsiveness to change of the instrument were selected. Seventy-nine articles were found, of which 17 evaluated the metric characteristics of the questionnaire. The reliability of the SF-36 scales was higher than the suggested standard (Cronbach's alpha) of 0.7 in 96% of the evaluations. Grouped evaluations obtained by meta-analysis were higher than 0.7 in all cases. The SF-36 showed good discrimination among severity groups, moderate correlations with clinical indicators, and high correlations with other HRQL instruments. Moreover, questionnaire scores predicted mortality and were able to detect improvement due to therapeutic interventions such as coronary angioplasty, benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery, and non-invasive positive pressure home ventilation. The new developments (norm-based scoring, version 2, the SF-12 and SF-8) improved both the metric properties and interpretation of the questionnaire. The Spanish version of the SF-36 and its recently developed versions is a suitable instrument for use in medical research, as well as in clinical practice.
Marchese, Victoria G; Rai, Shesh N; Carlson, Claire A; Hinds, Pamela S; Spearing, Elena M; Zhang, Lijun; Callaway, Lulie; Neel, Michael D; Rao, Bhaskar N; Ginsberg, Jill P
2007-08-01
Reliability and validity of a new tool, Functional Mobility Assessment (FMA), were examined in patients with lower-extremity sarcoma. FMA requires the patients to physically perform the functional mobility measures, unlike patient self-report or clinician administered measures. A sample of 114 subjects participated, 20 healthy volunteers and 94 patients with lower-extremity sarcoma after amputation, limb-sparing, or rotationplasty surgery. Reliability of the FMA was examined by three raters testing 20 healthy volunteers and 23 subjects with lower-extremity sarcoma. Concurrent validity was examined using data from 94 subjects with lower-extremity sarcoma who completed the FMA, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS), Short-Form 36 (SF-36v2), and Toronto Extremity Salvage Scale (TESS) scores. Construct validity was measured by the ability of the FMA to discriminate between subjects with and without functional mobility deficits. FMA demonstrated excellent reliability (ICC [2,1] >or=0.97). Moderate correlations were found between FMA and SF-36v2 (r = 0.60, P < 0.01), FMA and MSTS (r = 0.68, P < 0.01), and FMA and TESS (r = 0.62, P < 0.01). The patients with lower-extremity sarcoma scored lower on the FMA as compared to healthy controls (P < 0.01). The FMA is a reliable and valid functional outcome measure for patients with lower-extremity sarcoma. This study supports the ability of the FMA to discriminate between patients with varying functional abilities and supports the need to include measures of objective functional mobility in examination of patients with lower-extremity sarcoma.
Australian health-related quality of life population norms derived from the SF-6D.
Norman, Richard; Church, Jody; van den Berg, Bernard; Goodall, Stephen
2013-02-01
To investigate population health-related quality of life norms in an Australian general sample by age, gender, BMI, education and socioeconomic status. The SF-36 was included in the 2009/10 wave of the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey (n=17,630 individuals across 7,234 households), and converted into SF-6D utility scores. Trends across the various population subgroups were investigated employing population weights to ensure a balanced panel, and were all sub-stratified by gender. SF-6D scores decline with age beyond 40 years, with decreasing education and by higher levels of socioeconomic disadvantage. Scores were also lower at very low and very high BMI levels. Males reported higher SF-6D scores than females across most analyses. This study reports Australian population utility data measured using the SF-6D, based on a national representative sample. These results can be used in a range of policy settings such as cost-utility analysis or exploration of health-related inequality. In general, the patterns are similar to those reported using other multi-attribute utility instruments and in different countries. © 2013 The Authors. ANZJPH © 2013 Public Health Association of Australia.
Simon, J; Longis, P-M; Passuti, N
2017-04-01
Adult scoliosis is a condition in which the spinal deformity occurs because of degeneration. Although various studies have agreed on the importance of restoring the sagittal balance, few have evaluated the relationship between functional scores and radiological parameters. The primary objective of this retrospective study was to demonstrate the correlation between radiographic parameters and functional outcomes in adult patients with lumbar or thoracolumbar degenerative scoliosis. The secondary objective was to assess the long-term effects of posterolateral fusion for treating this deformity. This single-centre retrospective study included 47 patients over 50years of age who had degenerative lumbar scoliosis treated with an instrumented posterolateral fusion; the mean follow-up was 6.4years (range 2 to 20). Radiographic analysis of A/P and lateral full spine standing radiographs was carried out with the KEOPS software. Three pelvic parameters (pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, sacral slope), two spinal parameters (lumbar lordosis and thoracic kyphosis) and three sagittal balance parameters (C7 sagittal tilt, C7 Barrey's ratio and spinosacral angle) were calculated. The functional outcomes were evaluated through three self-assessment questionnaires: Oswestry Disability Index, SRS-30 and SF-36. The correlation between clinical and radiographic parameters was calculated with Spearman's correlation test. There was a significant correlation between the SF-36 (PCS) and the following three sagittal parameters: sacral slope (r=-0.31453; P=0.04), lumbar lordosis (r=-0.30198; P=0.0491) and spinosacral angle (r=-0.311967; P=0.0366). The mean ODI score was 33.61, which corresponds to minimal to moderate disability. The mean physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summary scores of the SF-36 were 37.70 and 38.40, respectively. The mean SRS-30 score was 3.07. It is essential that the sagittal balance be restored when treating degenerative lumbar scoliosis to generate better
Voorn, Veronique M A; Vermeulen, Henricus M; Nelissen, Rob G H H; Kloppenburg, Margreet; Huizinga, Tom W J; Leijerzapf, Nicolette A C; Kroon, Herman M; Vliet Vlieland, Thea P M; van der Linden, Henrica M J
2013-07-01
The subject of the study is to investigate whether health-related quality of life (HRQoL), pain and function of patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA) improves after a specialist care intervention coordinated by a physical therapist and a nurse practitioner (NP) and to assess satisfaction with this care at 12 weeks. This observational study included all consecutive patients with hip or knee OA referred to an outpatient orthopaedics clinic. The intervention consisted of a single, standardized visit (assessment and individually tailored management advice, to be executed in primary care) and a telephone follow-up, coordinated by a physical therapist and a NP, in cooperation with an orthopaedic surgeon. Assessments at baseline and 10 weeks thereafter included the short form-36 (SF-36), EuroQol 5D (EQ-5D), hip or knee disability and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS or KOOS), the intermittent and constant osteoarthritis pain questionnaire (ICOAP) for hip or knee and a multidimensional satisfaction questionnaire (23 items; 4 point scale). Eighty-seven patients (57 female), mean age 68 years (SD 10.9) were included, with follow-up data available in 63 patients (72 %). Statistically significant improvements were seen regarding the SF-36 physical summary component score, the EQ-5D, the ICOAP scores for hip and knee, the HOOS subscale sports and the KOOS subscales pain, symptoms and activities of daily living. The proportions of patients reporting to be satisfied ranged from 79 to 98 % per item. In patients with hip and knee OA pain, function and HRQoL improved significantly after a single-visit multidisciplinary OA management intervention in specialist care, with high patient satisfaction.
SF-FDTD analysis of a predictive physical model for parallel aligned liquid crystal devices
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Márquez, Andrés.; Francés, Jorge; Martínez, Francisco J.; Gallego, Sergi; Alvarez, Mariela L.; Calzado, Eva M.; Pascual, Inmaculada; Beléndez, Augusto
2017-08-01
Recently we demonstrated a novel and simplified model enabling to calculate the voltage dependent retardance provided by parallel aligned liquid crystal devices (PA-LCoS) for a very wide range of incidence angles and any wavelength in the visible. To our knowledge it represents the most simplified approach still showing predictive capability. Deeper insight into the physics behind the simplified model is necessary to understand if the parameters in the model are physically meaningful. Since the PA-LCoS is a black-box where we do not have information about the physical parameters of the device, we cannot perform this kind of analysis using the experimental retardance measurements. In this work we develop realistic simulations for the non-linear tilt of the liquid crystal director across the thickness of the liquid crystal layer in the PA devices. We consider these profiles to have a sine-like shape, which is a good approximation for typical ranges of applied voltage in commercial PA-LCoS microdisplays. For these simulations we develop a rigorous method based on the split-field finite difference time domain (SF-FDTD) technique which provides realistic retardance values. These values are used as the experimental measurements to which the simplified model is fitted. From this analysis we learn that the simplified model is very robust, providing unambiguous solutions when fitting its parameters. We also learn that two of the parameters in the model are physically meaningful, proving a useful reverse-engineering approach, with predictive capability, to probe into internal characteristics of the PA-LCoS device.
[Assessing quality of life in an urban population in Chengdu using the SF-12].
Li, Ning-xiu; Liu, Dan-ping; Liu, Chao-jie; Ren, Xiao-hui; Gao, Bo
2010-11-01
To assess the health-related quality of life in an urban population in Chengdu China using the SF-12. A random sampling strategy stratified by age and sex was adopted to select the participants in Chengdu. A total of 1365 respondents with an age of older than 18 years completed the interviewer-administered SF-12 survey. The physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summary measures of the SF-12 were calculated using the standard US scoring method and compared to the urban population norms of Hong Kong and Australia. Similar PCS and MCS scores were obtained for the urban Chengdu population compared to the Hong Kong and Australian population norms, albeit a closer similarity between the Chengdu and Hong Kong populations. The PCS and MCS scores of the SF-12 changed with sex and age. The age- and sex-adjusted PCS and MCS scores of the SF-12 in the urban Chengdu population can serve as a reference for future studies using the SF-12 in China.
Fransen, Marlene; Nairn, Lillias; Winstanley, Julie; Lam, Paul; Edmonds, John
2007-04-15
To determine whether Tai Chi or hydrotherapy classes for individuals with chronic symptomatic hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA) result in measurable clinical benefits. A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 152 older persons with chronic symptomatic hip or knee OA. Participants were randomly allocated for 12 weeks to hydrotherapy classes (n = 55), Tai Chi classes (n = 56), or a waiting list control group (n = 41). Outcomes were assessed 12 and 24 weeks after randomization and included pain and physical function (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index), general health status (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 12 Health Survey [SF-12], version 2), psychological well-being, and physical performance (Up and Go test, 50-foot walk time, timed stair climb). At 12 weeks, compared with controls, participants allocated to hydrotherapy classes demonstrated mean improvements (95% confidence interval) of 6.5 (0.4, 12.7) and 10.5 (3.6, 14.5) for pain and physical function scores (range 0-100), respectively, whereas participants allocated to Tai Chi classes demonstrated improvements of 5.2 (-0.8, 11.1) and 9.7 (2.8, 16.7), respectively. Both class allocations achieved significant improvements in the SF-12 physical component summary score, but only allocation to hydrotherapy achieved significant improvements in the physical performance measures. All significant improvements were sustained at 24 weeks. In this almost exclusively white sample, class attendance was higher for hydrotherapy, with 81% attending at least half of the available 24 classes, compared with 61% for Tai Chi. Access to either hydrotherapy or Tai Chi classes can provide large and sustained improvements in physical function for many older, sedentary individuals with chronic hip or knee OA.
Busenberg, E.; Plummer, Niel
2008-01-01
[1] A new groundwater dating procedure using the transient atmospheric signal of the environmental tracers SF5CF3, CFC-13, SF6, and CFC-12 was developed. The analytical procedure determines concentrations of the four tracers in air and water samples. SF 5CF3 and CFC-13 can be used to date groundwaters in some environments where the CFCs and SF6 have previously failed because these new tracers have increasing atmospheric input functions, no known terrigenic source, and are believed to be stable under reducing conditions. SF5CF3 has a dating range from 1970 to modern; the mixing ratio (mole fraction) in North American air has increased from the detection limit of 0.005 parts per trillion (ppt) to the 2006 mole fraction of about 0.16 ppt. No evidence was found for degradation of SF5CF3 in laboratory anaerobic systems. The solubility of SF5CF3 was measured in water from 1 to 35??C. Groundwater samples that contained large amounts of terrigenic SF6 did not contain terrigenic SF 5CF3. CFC-13 is a trace atmospheric gas with a dating range in groundwater of about 1965 to modem. CFC-13 has been used primarily in very low-temperature refrigeration; thus groundwater environments are less likely to be contaminated with nonatmospheric sources as compared to other widely used CFCs. Because of the low solubility of SF5CF3 and CFC-13 in water, an excess air correction must be applied to the apparent ages. The new dating procedure was tested in water samples from wells and springs from Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Ceschin, Rafael; Panigrahy, Ashok; Gopalakrishnan, Vanathi
2015-01-01
A major challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors is tissue heterogeneity leading to mixed treatment response. Additionally, they are often difficult or at very high risk for biopsy, further hindering the clinical management process. To overcome this, novel advanced imaging methods are increasingly being adapted clinically to identify useful noninvasive biomarkers capable of disease stage characterization and treatment response prediction. One promising technique is called functional diffusion mapping (fDM), which uses diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) to generate parametric maps between two imaging time points in order to identify significant voxel-wise changes in water diffusion within the tumor tissue. Here we introduce serial functional diffusion mapping (sfDM), an extension of existing fDM methods, to analyze the entire tumor diffusion profile along the temporal course of the disease. sfDM provides the tools necessary to analyze a tumor data set in the context of spatiotemporal parametric mapping: the image registration pipeline, biomarker extraction, and visualization tools. We present the general workflow of the pipeline, along with a typical use case for the software. sfDM is written in Python and is freely available as an open-source package under the Berkley Software Distribution (BSD) license to promote transparency and reproducibility.
Dimensions of emotional intelligence related to physical and mental health and to health behaviors
Fernández-Abascal, Enrique G.; Martín-Díaz, María Dolores
2015-01-01
In this paper the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and health is examined. The current work investigated the dimensions of EI are sufficient to explain various components of physical and mental health, and various categories of health-related behaviors. A sample of 855 participants completed two measures of EI, the Trait Meta-Mood Scale and trait emotional intelligence questionnaire, a measure of health, the Health Survey SF-36 Questionnaire (SF-36); and a measure of health-related behaviors, the health behavior checklist. The results show that the EI dimensions analyzed are better predictors of mental health than of physical health. The EI dimensions that positively explain the Mental Health Component are Well-Being, Self-Control and Sociability, and negatively, Attention. Well-Being, Self-Control and Sociability positively explain the Physical Health Component. EI dimensions predict a lower percentage of health-related behaviors than they do health components. Emotionality and Repair predict the Preventive Health Behavior category, and only one dimension, Self-Control, predicts the Risk Taking Behavior category. Older people carry out more preventive behaviors for health. PMID:25859229
Cao, Fen; Zhang, Baojian; Li, Xinyi; Duan, Shu
2018-05-28
To explore the effect and difference of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and medical therapy on quality of life and cognitive function in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), and to investigate the relationship between quality of life and cognitive function. Methods: A total of 320 patients with CHD, who underwent coronary angiography and PCI (PCI group, n=160), or underwent coronary angiography and medical therapy (drug therapy group, n=160), were selected. The quality of life was assessed by using the Health Survey Form SF-36 (SF-36) and the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ), and the cognitive function was assessed by using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). General data of patients were collected on the day of coronary angiography. Telephone follow-up was conducted in 1 month after treatment, and the outpatient review was carried out in 3 and 6 months after treatment. Results: A total of 309 valid questionnaires were collected. The scores of quality of life in the PCI group and the drug therapy group after treatment were both increased compared with those before treatment (both P<0.05). The SF-36 scores of four dimensions (role physical, bodily pain, vitality and mental health) in the PCI group were all significantly greater than those in the drug therapy group (all P<0.05). The SAQ scores of two dimensions (angina stability and angina frequency) were both higher in the PCI group than those in the drug therapy group in 6 months of post-operation (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference in cognitive function before and after the treatment in the 2 groups (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in cognitive function between the PCI group and the drug therapy group (P>0.05). In the PCI group, physical function, role physical, bodily pain, and role emotional were positively correlated with cognitive function (r=0.207, 0.182, 0.184, 0.176 respectively, all P<0.05). In the drug therapy group, there was no correlation between
SF6-alternative gases for application in gas-insulated switchgear
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, Xingwen; Zhao, Hu; Murphy, Anthony B.
2018-04-01
The environmental problems caused by greenhouse gases have received unprecedented attention. Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), which is the preferred gas for use in gas-insulated switchgear (circuit breakers, disconnect switches, etc. for high-voltage electrical circuits), has a very high global warming potential, and there is a large international effort to find alternative gases. Recently, this effort has made important progress, with promising alternative gases being identified and tested. An overview, in particular the current state of the art, of the study of SF6-alternative gases is presented in the paper. The review focuses on the application of the SF6-alternative gases in gas-insulated switchgear, with detailed analysis of calculations and measurements of their basic physical properties, dielectric strengths, and arc-quenching capabilities. Finally, a discussion of and perspectives on current research and future research directions are presented.
Trombetti, A; Reid, K F; Hars, M; Herrmann, F R; Pasha, E; Phillips, E M; Fielding, R A
2016-02-01
This 3-year longitudinal study among older adults showed that declining muscle mass, strength, power, and physical performance are independent contributing factors to increased fear of falling, while declines of muscle mass and physical performance contribute to deterioration of quality of life. Our findings reinforce the importance of preserving muscle health with advancing age. The age-associated loss of skeletal muscle quantity and function are critical determinants of independent physical functioning in later life. Longitudinal studies investigating how decrements in muscle components of sarcopenia impact fear of falling (FoF) and quality of life (QoL) in older adults are lacking. Twenty-six healthy older subjects (age, 74.1 ± 3.7; Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score ≥10) and 22 mobility-limited older subjects (age, 77.2 ± 4.4; SPPB score ≤9) underwent evaluations of lower extremity muscle size and composition by computed tomography, strength and power, and physical performance at baseline and after 3-year follow-up. The Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) and Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36) were also administered at both timepoints to assess FoF and QoL, respectively. At 3-year follow-up, muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) (p < 0.013) and power decreased (p < 0.001), while intermuscular fat infiltration increased (p < 0.001). These decrements were accompanied with a longer time to complete 400 m by 22 ± 46 s (p < 0.002). Using linear mixed-effects regression models, declines of muscle CSA, strength and power, and SPPB score were associated with increased FES score (p < 0.05 for each model). Reduced physical component summary score of SF-36 over follow-up was independently associated with decreased SPPB score (p < 0.020), muscle CSA (p < 0.046), and increased 400 m walk time (p < 0.003). In older adults with and without mobility limitations, declining muscle mass, strength, power, and physical
Pompili, Cecilia; Brunelli, Alessandro; Xiumé, Francesco; Refai, Majed; Salati, Michele; Socci, Laura; Di Nunzio, Luca; Sabbatini, Armando
2011-07-01
The interpretation of studies on quality of life (QoL) after lung surgery is often difficult owing to the use of multiple instruments with inconsistent scales and metrics. Although a more standardized approach would be desirable, the most appropriate instrument to be used in this setting is still largely undefined. The aim of the study was to assess the respective ability of two validated QoL instruments (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30/L13 and Short Form (36) Health Survey (SF-36)) to detect perioperative changes in QoL of patients submitted to pulmonary resection for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A prospective study on 33 consecutive patients (May 2009-December 2009) was submitted to pulmonary resection. All patients completed both EORTC QLQ-C30 with lung module 13 and SF-36 pre- and postoperatively (3 months). Preoperative changes of all SF-36 and EORTC scales were assessed by using the Cohen's effect-size method. External convergence between different instruments (SF-36 vs EORTC) was assessed by measuring the correlation of scales evaluating the same concepts (physical, psychosocial, and emotional). The correlation coefficients between standardized perioperative changes (effect sizes) of objective functional parameters (forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1) and diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO)) and SF-36 or EORTC scales were also investigated. A poor correlation (r < 0.5) was detected between most of the scales of the two instruments measuring the same QoL concepts, indicating that they may be complementary in investigating different aspects of QoL. Only the SF-36 and EORTC social functioning scales and the SF-36 mental health and EORTC emotional functioning scales had a correlation coefficient >0.5. In general, EORTC was more sensitive in detecting physical or emotional declines but was more conservative in detecting improvements. Both SF-36 and EORTC showed poor correlations (r < 0.5) between
Resić, Halima; Vavra-Hadžiahmetović, Narcisa; Čelik, Damir; Kablar, Amra; Kukavica, Nihad; Mašnić, Fahrudin; Ajanović, Selma; Bećiragić, Amela; Ćorić, Aida
2014-04-01
To determine the effect of a 16-week intradialytic exercise program consisting of 30 minutes of exercise during the first two hours of dialysis with three times a week frequency, on the quality of life (QoL), level of depression/anxiety and physical perfor- mance in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The clinical, longitudinal, prospective study with one-group repeated measures design was conducted during a 16-week period. A convenience sample of 52 HD patients, who had been on HD for a minimum of 6 months, were included. QoL, level of depression and anxiety (questionnaires: SF-36, Back Depression Inventory (BDI) and Back Anxiety Inventory (BAI)) and physical performance (modifying Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Manual Muscle Testing (MMT)) were assessed at baseline and after 4-month exercise program. The following scales of SF-36 questionnaire were improved after 16-week exercise program: role functioning/emotional (P=0.01 8), energy/fatigue (P = 0.002) and social functi- oning (P = 0.030). Level of depression and anxiety were significantly decreased in males (P = 0.007 and P = 0.022, respectively) and females (P = 0.001 and P = 0.000, respectively). VAS scale and MMT were significantly increased in males (P = 0.000 and P = 0.001, respectively) and females (P = 0.01 9 and P = 0.001, respectively) after 16-week exercise program. Exercise program improves some aspects of QoL and physical performance, and decreases the level of depression and anxiety in HD patients.
SF Box--a tool for evaluating the effects on soil functions in remediation projects.
Volchko, Yevheniya; Norrman, Jenny; Rosén, Lars; Norberg, Tommy
2014-10-01
Although remediation is usually aimed at reducing the risks posed by contaminants to human health and the environment, it is also desirable that the remediated soil within future green spaces is capable of providing relevant ecological functions, e.g., basis for primary production. Yet while addressing a contamination problem by reducing contaminant concentration and/or amounts in the soil, the remedial action itself can lead to soil structure disturbances, decline in organic matter and nutrient deficiencies, and in turn affect a soil's capacity to carry out its ecological soil functions. This article presents the Soil Function Box (SF Box) tool that is aimed to facilitate integration of information from suggested soil quality indicators (SQIs) into a management process in remediation using a scoring method. The scored SQIs are integrated into a soil quality index corresponding to 1 of 5 classes. SF Box is applied to 2 cases from Sweden (Kvillebäcken and Hexion), explicitly taking into consideration uncertainties in the results by means of Monte Carlo simulations. At both sites the generated soil quality indices corresponded to a medium soil performance (soil class 3) with a high certainty. The main soil constraints at both Kvillebäcken and Hexion were associated with biological activity in the soil, as soil organisms were unable to supply plant-available N. At the Kvillebäcken site the top layer had a content of coarse fragment (ø > 2 mm) higher than 35%, indicating plant rooting limitations. At the Hexion site, the soil had limited amount of organic matter, thus poor aggregate stability and nutrient cycling potential. In contrast, the soil at Kvillebäcken was rich in organic matter. The soils at both sites were capable of storing a sufficient amount of water for soil organisms between precipitation events. © 2014 SETAC.
Arslan, M; Soylu, M; Kaner, G; İnanç, N; Başmısırlı, E
2016-01-01
Patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have impaired quality of life, but the relationship between their nutritional status and quality of life has not been established. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between quality of life and nutritional status in hospitalized COPD patients. Demographic data, quality of life and nutritional status of 90 inpatients with a mean age of 68.76 ± 10.85 years were enrolled in the study. The Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS-2002) tool was used to evaluate their nutritional status. The quality of life was assessed using the Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire. The correlation analysis was used for the relationship between SF-36 subscales and nutritional status variables. Of the 90 COPD patients included in the study, 54.4 % were men, and 45.6 % were women. Moderate, severe, and very severe COPD were detected in 37.8 %, 38.9 %, and 23.3 % of the patients, respectively. At risk of malnutrition were 55.6 % of the 90 COPD patients, whereas 44.4 % were not. The scores for physical function, physical role functioning, pain, general health, emotional role functioning, vitality, social function, and mental function subscales were lower in the patients at risk of malnutrition (p <0.001). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between malnutrition score and the subscores of SF-36 related to physical function, physical role functioning, pain, general health, emotional role functioning, vitality, social function, and mental function (p <0.001). COPD patients were found to have a high risk of malnutrition that adversely affects their quality of life. Therefore, the evaluation of the nutritional status of COPD patients should be an integral part of their clinical treatment plans aiming towards improving their quality of life. Hippokratia 2016, 20(2):147-152.
Refining a health-related quality of life assessment strategy for solid organ transplant patients.
Feurer, Irene D; Moore, Derek E; Speroff, Theodore; Liu, Hongxia; Payne, Jerita; Harrison, Connie; Pinson, C Wright
2004-01-01
The psychometric properties of generic health-related quality of life (HRQOL) assessment instruments were evaluated to identify a reliable, valid, and non-redundant battery to measure longitudinal outcomes in organ transplant patients. Objective functional performance and subjective HRQOL were assessed in 371 solid organ (liver, heart, kidney, lung) transplant patients using the Karnofsky scale, the SF-36 Health Survey (SF-36), and Psychosocial Adjustment to Illness Scale (PAIS). The surveys' internal-consistency reliability, criterion-related validity, and redundancy were tested. The SF-36 mental (MCS) and physical components (PCS), and PAIS summary scales were internally consistent (all alpha > or = 0.83). Four out of seven PAIS scales (vocational, domestic, sexual, social) were collectively associated with the PCS (R = 0.65, P < 0.001), as was functional performance (r = 0.52, P < 0.001). Three PAIS scales (family, social, psychological distress) were associated with the MCS (R = 0.72, P < 0.001). Only the PAIS healthcare orientation (satisfaction) scale was not associated with the SF-36((R)). The relationship between functional performance and the PCS is stronger (r = 0.52, P < 0.001) than with the MCS (r = 0.25, P < 0.001) and the PAIS global score (r = 0.37, P < 0.001). The SF-36 and PAIS are internally consistent and exhibit divergent criterion-related validity but, with the exception of the PAIS healthcare orientation scale, are statistically redundant. The advantages of the SF-36 include wider use, more norms, and a lesser response burden. A transplant-specific patient satisfaction inventory was indicated and was developed.
Kovács, E; Prókai, L; Mészáros, L; Gondos, T
2013-06-01
Exercise programmes have important role in prevention of falls, but to date, we have little knowledge about the effects of Adapted Physical Activity programme on balance of older women. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an Adapted Physical Activity programme on balance, risk of falls and quality of life in community-dwelling older women. This was a randomized controlled study. Community, in a local sport centre. Older women aged over 60 years. Seventy-six women were randomised to an exercise group providing Adapted Physical Activity programme for 25 weeks or a control group (in which they did not participate in any exercise programme). The one-leg stance test, Timed Up and Go test, incidence of fall and the quality of life (SF-36V2) were measured at baseline and after 25 weeks. The one-leg stance test and the Timed Up and Go test in the exercise group was significantly better than in the control group after the intervention period (P=0.005; P=0.001, respectively). The Physical Functioning, Vitality and General Health subdomains of quality of life were also significantly better in the exercise group compared to the control group (P=0.004; P=0.005; P=0.038, respectively). Relative risk was 0.40 (90% CI 0.174 to 0.920) and the number needed to treat was 5 (95% CI 2.3 to 23.3). This 25-week Adapted Physical Activity programme improves static balance, functional mobility, as well as Physical Functioning, Vitality and General Health subdomains of quality of life. Based on our results, the Adapted Physical Activity programme may be a promising fall prevention exercise programme improving static balance and functional mobility for community-dwelling older women.
Pulles, Wiesje L J A; Oosterman, Joukje M
2011-12-01
In this study, the relationship between pain intensity, neuropsychological, and physical function in adult chronic pain patients was examined. Thirty participants with chronic pain completed neuropsychological tests tapping mental processing speed, memory, and executive function. Pain intensity was measured with three visual analog scales and the Pain Rating Index of the McGill Pain Questionnaire. A grip strength test, the 6-minute walk test, the Unipedal Stance Test and the Lifting Low Test were administered in order to obtain a performance-based measure of physical capacity. Self-reported physical ability was assessed with the Disability Rating Index and the Short Form-36 Physical Functioning, and Role Physical scales. Psychosocial function was examined using the Mental Health and Role Emotional subscales of the Short Form-36. The study was set in two outpatient physical therapy clinics in The Netherlands. The analysis showed that a lower mental processing speed was related to a higher level of pain, as well as to a lower performance-based and self-reported physical functioning. In addition, both performance-based and self-reported physical function revealed an inverse correlation with pain intensity. Psychosocial function turned out to be an important mediator of the relationship between pain and self-reported, but not performance-based, physical function. Mental processing speed, on the other hand, was found to mediate the relationship between pain and performance-based physical functioning. The results suggest that in chronic pain patients, mental processing speed mediates the relationship between pain and physical function. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long-Term Effects of AposTherapy in Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Two-Year Followup
Bar-Ziv, Yaron; Debbi, Eytan M.; Ran, Yuval; Benedict, Shaike; Halperin, Nahum; Beer, Yiftah
2013-01-01
Several biomechanics treatments for knee osteoarthritis (OA) have emerged with the goal of reducing pain and improving function. Through this, researchers have hoped to achieve a transition from the pathological gait patterns to coordinated motor responses. The purpose of the study was to determine the long-term effects of a therapy using a biomechanical device in patients with knee OA. Patients with knee OA were enrolled to active and control groups. The biomechanical device used in therapy (AposTherapy) was individually calibrated to each patient in the active group. Patients in the control group received standard treatment. Outcomes were the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Aggregated Locomotor Function (ALF), Short Form 36 (SF-36), and Knee Society Score assessments. The active and control groups were similar at the baseline (group difference in all scores P > 0.05). The active group showed a larger improvement over time between groups in all three WOMAC categories (F = 16.8, 21.7, and 18.1 for pain, stiffness, and function; all P < 0.001), SF-36 Physical Scale (F = 5.8; P = 0.02), Knee Society Knee Score (F = 4.3; P = 0.044 ), and Knee Society Function Score (F = 6.5; P = 0.014 ). At the two-year endpoint, the active group showed significantly better results (all P ≤ 0.001). The groups showed a difference of 4.9, 5.6, and 4.7 for the WOMAC pain, stiffness, and function scores, respectively, 10.8 s in ALF score, 30.5 in SF-36 Physical Scale, 16.9 in SF-36 Mental Scale, 17.8 in Knee Society Knee Score, and 25.2 in Knee Society Function Score. The biomechanical therapy examined was shown to significantly reduce pain and improve function and quality of life of patients with knee OA over the long term. PMID:23533753
Sekine, Michikazu; Tatsuse, Takashi; Kagamimori, Sadanobu; Chandola, Tarani; Cable, Noriko; Marmot, Michael; Martikainen, Pekka; Lallukka, Tea; Rahkonen, Ossi; Lahelma, Eero
2011-08-01
In general, women report more physical and mental symptoms than men. International comparisons of countries with different welfare state regimes may provide further understanding of the social determinants of sex inequalities in health. This study aims to evaluate (1) whether there are sex inequalities in health functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36), and (2) whether work characteristics contribute to the sex inequalities in health among employees from Britain, Finland, and Japan, representing liberal, social democratic, and conservative welfare state regimes, respectively. The participants were 7340 (5122 men and 2218 women) British employees, 2297 (1638 men and 659 women) Japanese employees, and 8164 (1649 men and 6515 women) Finnish employees. All the participants were civil servants aged 40-60 years. We found that more women than men tended to have disadvantaged work characteristics (i.e. low employment grade, low job control, high job demands, and long work hours) but such sex differences were relatively smaller among employees from Finland, where more gender equal policies exist than Britain and Japan. The age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of women for poor physical functioning was the largest for British women (OR = 2.08), followed by for Japanese women (OR = 1.72), and then for Finnish women (OR = 1.51). The age-adjusted OR of women for poor mental functioning was the largest for Japanese women (OR = 1.91), followed by for British women (OR = 1.45), and then for Finnish women (OR = 1.07). Thus, sex differences in physical and mental health was the smallest in the Finnish population. The larger the sex differences in work characteristics, the larger the sex differences in health and the reduction in the sex differences in health after adjustment for work characteristics. These results suggest that egalitarian and gender equal policies may contribute to smaller sex differences in health, through smaller differences in disadvantaged work
Sekine, Michikazu; Tatsuse, Takashi; Kagamimori, Sadanobu; Chandola, Tarani; Cable, Noriko; Marmot, Michael; Martikainen, Pekka; Lallukka, Tea; Rahkonen, Ossi; Lahelma, Eero
2011-01-01
In general, women report more physical and mental symptoms than men. International comparisons of countries with different welfare state regimes may provide further understanding of the social determinants of sex inequalities in health. This study aims to evaluate (1) whether there are sex inequalities in health functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36), and (2) whether work characteristics contribute to the sex inequalities in health among employees from Britain, Finland, and Japan, representing liberal, social democratic, and conservative welfare state regimes, respectively. The participants were 7340 (5122 men and 2218 women) British employees, 2297 (1638 men and 659 women) Japanese employees, and 8164 (1649 men and 6515 women) Finnish employees. All the participants were civil servants aged 40-60 years. We found that more women than men tended to have disadvantaged work characteristics (i.e. low employment grade, low job control, high job demands, and long work hours) but such sex differences were relatively smaller among employees from Finland, where more gender equal policies exist than Britain and Japan. The age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of women for poor physical functioning was the largest for British women (OR=2.08), followed by for Japanese women (OR=1.72), and then for Finnish women (OR=1.51). The age-adjusted OR of women for poor mental functioning was the largest for Japanese women (OR=1.91), followed by for British women (OR=1.45), and then for Finnish women (OR=1.07). Thus, sex differences in physical and mental health was the smallest in the Finnish population. The larger the sex differences in work characteristics, the larger the sex differences in health and the reduction in the sex differences in health after adjustment for work characteristics. These results suggest that egalitarian and gender equal policies may contribute to smaller sex differences in health, through smaller differences in disadvantaged work characteristics between
Steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1, NR5A1) and human disease
Ferraz-de-Souza, Bruno; Lin, Lin; Achermann, John C.
2011-01-01
Steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1, Ad4BP, encoded by NR5A1) is a key regulator of adrenal and reproductive development and function. Based upon the features found in Nr5a1 null mice, initial attempts to identify SF-1 changes in humans focused on those rare individuals with primary adrenal failure, a 46,XY karyotype, complete gonadal dysgenesis and Müllerian structures. Although alterations affecting DNA-binding of SF-1 were found in two such cases, disruption of SF-1 is not commonly found in patients with adrenal failure. In contrast, it is emerging that variations in SF-1 can be found in association with a range of human reproductive phenotypes such as 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD), hypospadias, anorchia, male factor infertility, or primary ovarian insufficiency in women. Overexpression or overactivity of SF-1 is also reported in some adrenal tumors or endometriosis. Therefore, the clinical spectrum of phenotypes associated with variations in SF-1 is expanding and the importance of this nuclear receptor in human endocrine disease is now firmly established. PMID:21078366
Eckert, Katharina
2012-01-01
Increasing obesity prevalence rates in the general population are reflected in patients with type 2 diabetes. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is negatively affected in patients who are overweight or have diabetes, but physical activity (PA) is proven to have positive side effects on the perceived quality of life. Little is known about the relationship of PA with obesity, diabetes, and HRQoL. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to examine the relationship between HRQoL and PA in type 2 diabetics in association with the severity of overweight. This was a cross-sectional multicenter cohort study involving 370 outpatients with type 2 diabetes. Participants completed the SF-36 Health Survey (SF-36(®)) and the Freiburger Questionnaire for Physical Activity (FFkA). Endurance capacity was tested with a 2 km walking test. t-tests, analysis of variance, Pearson's correlation test, and multiple regression analyses were performed. HRQoL is negatively affected by body mass index (BMI). The results show that patients with type 2 diabetes and grade II obesity (BMI > 35) have a lower HRQoL than overweight patients (BMI 25-29.99) and patients with grade I obesity (BMI 30-35). HRQoL decreases with decreasing PA in all dimensions of the SF-36. PA remains a significant predictor of physical composite summary (B = 0.09; β = 0.11; P < 0.05), physical function (B = 0.10; β = 0.13; P < 0.01), mental composite summary (B = 0.13; β = 0.20; P < 0.001), vitality (B = 0.15; β = 0.24; P < 0.001), and psychological well-being (B = 0.11; β = 0.18; P < 0.01) when controlling for age, sex, and BMI. Because of the strong association between being overweight/obese and several risk factors for morbidity and mortality, reversing the obesity epidemic is an urgent priority. Based upon the results of this study and the available evidence of the efficacy of PA for preventing and treating those who are overweight or obese, health care professionals should continue to stress the
Saglam, Yavuz; Gulenc, Baris; Birisik, Fevzi; Ersen, Ali; Yilmaz Yalcinkaya, Ebru; Yazicioglu, Onder
2017-12-01
The aim of this study was to analyze the patient demographics, etiology of limb loss as well as reporting SF-36 scores for microprocessor prosthesis users in Turkish population. We reviewed 72 patients (61 male and 11 female; mean age: 37.7 ± 10.7) with uni-lateral, above knee amputation and a history of regular and microprocessor prosthesis use. All patients were called back for a last follow-up and they were asked to fill a self-administered general health status questionnaire (SF-36). According to the SF-36 results; physical component score (PCS) score was 46 ± 7.3 and mental components summary (MCS) score was 46.5 ± 9.1. These scores have statistical similarity with Turkish healthy controls, except SF (social functioning) sub-dimension. PCS score for women microprocessor users were significantly lower than men (43.3 vs. 48.7, p = 0.03), but MCS scores were similar in between genders (46 vs. 48.2, p = 0.13). Conventional prostheses usage time was positively correlated with physical function (PF) scores (r = 0.322, p = 0.010). Microprocessor prosthesis usage time was negatively correlated with role limitations due to emotional problem (RE) scores (r = -0,313, p = 0.009). The quality of life surveys were showed that the loss of an extremity have higher physical and psychological impact on women's physical scores. Overall, SF-36 results were similar in microprocessor using amputee's and Turkish normal controls. Level IV, therapeutic study. Copyright © 2017 Turkish Association of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Vasconcelos, Karina S. S.; Dias, João M. D.; Araújo, Marília C.; Pinheiro, Ana C.; Moreira, Bruno S.; Dias, Rosângela C.
2016-01-01
ABSTRACT Background Sarcopenic obesity is associated with disability in older people, especially in women. Resistance exercises are recommended for this population, but their efficacy is not clear. Objective To evaluate the effects of a progressive resistance exercise program with high-speed component on the physical function of older women with sarcopenic obesity. Method Twenty-eight women 65 to 80 years old, with a body mass index ≥30kg/m2 and handgrip strength ≤21kg were randomly allocated to two groups. The experimental group underwent a 10-week resistance exercise program designed to improve strength, power, and endurance of lower-limb muscles, with open chain and closed chain exercises. The control group had their health status monitored through telephone calls. The primary outcomes were lower limb muscle performance measured by knee extensor strength, power and fatigue by isokinetic dynamometry, and mobility measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery and by gait velocity. The secondary outcome was health-related quality of life assessed by the SF-36 Questionnaire. Results The average rate of adherence was 85%, with few mild adverse effects. There were no significant between-group differences for any of the outcomes. Conclusion In this study, a progressive resistance exercise program with high-speed component was not effective for improving the physical function of older women with sarcopenic obesity. PMID:27410162
Hicks, Gregory E; Sions, J Megan; Velasco, Teonette O
2017-10-27
To determine (1) whether there are differences in the prevalence of clinical hip symptoms between older adults with and without chronic low back pain (CLBP); and (2) whether coexisting hip symptoms are associated with worse physical performance and poorer health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Case-control study. Individuals participated in a standardized evaluation in a clinical laboratory. Clinical hip symptoms, which are proposed predictors of radiographic hip osteoarthritis according to American College of Rheumatology guidelines, were evaluated in a volunteer sample of community-dwelling older adults with CLBP (n=54; aged 60-85y) and in age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n=54). Not applicable. Physical performance was measured by the repeated chair rise test and stair-climbing test. HRQOL was measured by the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Hip joint pain, morning stiffness, and pain with hip internal rotation were more common among older adults with CLBP (P<.05). Participants with CLBP and coexisting hip symptoms had worse physical performance than individuals without CLBP or hip symptoms (P<.0001). Additionally, the presence of coexisting hip symptoms was associated with worse HRQOL, particularly in the domains of social functioning, mental health, and role limitations attributable to emotional problems as measured by the SF-36 (P<.01). Given our limited understanding of CLBP among older adults, there is a definitive need to systematically explore coexisting pain conditions that may contribute to worse outcomes. Based on these data, future longitudinal studies should explore whether coexisting hip symptoms are associated with a worse prognosis in older adults with CLBP. Copyright © 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Bechman, Katie; Sin, Fang En; Ibrahim, Fowzia; Norton, Sam; Matcham, Faith; Scott, David Lloyd; Cope, Andrew; Galloway, James
2018-01-01
Tapering of anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy appears feasible, safe and effective in selected patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Depression is highly prevalent in RA and may impact on flare incidence through various mechanisms. This study aims to investigate if psychological states predict flare in patients' dose tapering their anti-TNF therapy. This study is a post-hoc analysis of the Optimizing TNF Tapering in RA trial, a multicentre, randomised, open-label study investigating anti-TNF tapering in RA patients with sustained low disease activity. Patient-reported outcomes (Health Assessment Questionnaire, EuroQol 5-dimension scale, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy fatigue scale (FACIT-F), 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36)) were collected at baseline. The primary outcome was flare, defined as an increase in 28-joint count Disease Activity Score (DAS28) ≥0.6 and ≥1 swollen joint. Discrete-time survival models were used to identify patient-reported outcomes that predict flare. Ninety-seven patients were randomised to taper their anti-TNF dose by either 33% or 66%. Forty-one patients flared. Higher baseline DAS28 score was associated with flare (adjusted HR 1.96 (95% CI 1.18 to 3.24), p=0.01). Disability (SF-36 physical component score), fatigue (FACIT-F) and mental health (SF-36 mental health subscale (MH)) predicted flare in unadjusted models. In multivariate analyses, only SF-36 MH remained a statistically significant predictor of flare (adjusted HR per 10 units 0.74 (95% CI 0.60 to 0.93), p=0.01). Baseline DAS28 and mental health status are independently associated with flare in patients who taper their anti-TNF therapy. Fatigue and function also associate with flare but the effect disappears when adjusting for confounders. Given these findings, mental health and functional status should be considered in anti-TNF tapering decisions in order to optimise the likelihood of success. EudraCT Number: 2010-020738-24; ISRCTN: 28955701
Bechman, Katie; Sin, Fang En; Ibrahim, Fowzia; Norton, Sam; Matcham, Faith; Scott, David Lloyd; Cope, Andrew; Galloway, James
2018-01-01
Background Tapering of anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy appears feasible, safe and effective in selected patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Depression is highly prevalent in RA and may impact on flare incidence through various mechanisms. This study aims to investigate if psychological states predict flare in patients’ dose tapering their anti-TNF therapy. Methods This study is a post-hoc analysis of the Optimizing TNF Tapering in RA trial, a multicentre, randomised, open-label study investigating anti-TNF tapering in RA patients with sustained low disease activity. Patient-reported outcomes (Health Assessment Questionnaire, EuroQol 5-dimension scale, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy fatigue scale (FACIT-F), 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36)) were collected at baseline. The primary outcome was flare, defined as an increase in 28-joint count Disease Activity Score (DAS28) ≥0.6 and ≥1 swollen joint. Discrete-time survival models were used to identify patient-reported outcomes that predict flare. Results Ninety-seven patients were randomised to taper their anti-TNF dose by either 33% or 66%. Forty-one patients flared. Higher baseline DAS28 score was associated with flare (adjusted HR 1.96 (95% CI 1.18 to 3.24), p=0.01). Disability (SF-36 physical component score), fatigue (FACIT-F) and mental health (SF-36 mental health subscale (MH)) predicted flare in unadjusted models. In multivariate analyses, only SF-36 MH remained a statistically significant predictor of flare (adjusted HR per 10 units 0.74 (95% CI 0.60 to 0.93), p=0.01). Conclusions Baseline DAS28 and mental health status are independently associated with flare in patients who taper their anti-TNF therapy. Fatigue and function also associate with flare but the effect disappears when adjusting for confounders. Given these findings, mental health and functional status should be considered in anti-TNF tapering decisions in order to optimise the likelihood of success. Trial
Elmallah, Randa K; Chughtai, Morad; Adib, Farshad; Bozic, Kevin J; Kurtz, Steven M; Mont, Michael A
2017-03-15
Following total hip arthroplasty, patients' perception of their postoperative improvement and health plays a large role in satisfaction with and success of the surgical procedure. The Short Form-6D (SF-6D) is a health-related quality-of-life measure that assigns numerical value to the perception of patients' own health. The purpose was to determine SF-6D values of patients after total hip arthroplasty, to determine whether score changes were clinically relevant, and to compare these with postoperative functional improvements. We evaluated 188 patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty at 7 institutions and who had a mean age of 69 years (range, 47 to 88 years) and a mean body mass index of 28.8 kg/m (range, 19.8 to 38.9 kg/m). The SF-6D values were obtained from patients' SF-36 scores, and clinical relevance of value changes was determined using effect size. Using previous research, effect sizes were considered small between 0.2 and 0.5, moderate between 0.6 to 0.8, and large at >0.8. Clinical correlation was assessed using the Lower-Extremity Activity Scale and Harris hip scores. Patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 6 months and 1, 2, 3, and 5 years. The SF-6D scores improved from preoperatively and achieved significance (p < 0.05) at all points. The effect size demonstrated good clinical relevance up to the latest follow-up: 1.27 at 6 months, 1.30 at 1 year, 1.07 at 2 years, 1.08 at 3 years, and 1.05 at 5 years. The Lower-Extremity Activity Scale improved at all follow-up points from preoperatively to 1.8 at 6 months, 2.0 at 1 year, 1.8 at 2 years, 1.5 at 3 years, and 1.6 points at 5 years. The Harris hip score improved to 38 points at 6 months, 40 points at 1 year, 38 points at 2 years, 39 points at 3 years, and 41 points at 5 years postoperatively. The improvements in the Lower-Extremity Activity Scale and the Harris hip score significantly positively correlated (p < 0.01) with the SF-6D scores at all time points. SF-6D scores
Flat Foot in a Random Population and its Impact on Quality of Life and Functionality
Gonzalez-Martin, Cristina; Alonso-Tajes, Francisco; Seoane-Pillado, Teresa; Pertega-Diaz, Sonia; Perez-Garcia, Sergio; Seijo-Bestilleiro, Rocio; Balboa-Barreiro, Vanesa
2017-01-01
Introduction Flat foot is a common deformity in adults. It is characterized by medial rotation and plantar flexion of the talus, eversion of the calcaneus, collapsed medial arch and abduction of the forefoot. Aim The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of flat foot and its impact on quality of life, dependence, foot pain, disability and functional limitation among random population of 40-year-old and above. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study in a random population sample from Cambre (A Coruña-Spain) (n=835) was performed (α =0.05; Precision=±3.4%). The diagnosis of flat foot was stablished by the study of the footprint obtained with a pedograph. Anthropometric variables were studied, Charlson’s Comorbidity Index, function and state of foot (Foot Function Index (FFI), Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ)), quality of life (SF-36), and dependence for activities of daily living (Barthel and Lawton index). A logistic and linear multiple regression analysis was performed. Results The prevalence of flat foot was 26.62%. Patients with flat foot were significantly older (65.73±11.04 vs 61.03±11.45-year-old), showed a higher comorbidity index (0.92±1.49 vs 0.50±0.98), had a greater BMI (31.45±5.55 vs 28.40±4.17) and greater foot size (25.16±1.66 vs 24.82±1.65). The presence of flat foot diminishes the quality of life, as measured by the FHSQ, and foot function, measured by the FFI. The presence of flat foot does not alter the physical and mental dimension of the SF-36 or the degree of dependence. Conclusion Flat foot was associated with age, Charlson’s Comorbidity Index, BMI and foot size. The SF-36, Barthel and Lawton questionnaires remained unaltered by the presence of flat foot. The FHSQ and FFI questionnaires did prove to be sensitive to the presence of flat foot in a significant manner. PMID:28571173
Kolotkin, Ronette L.; Natvig, Gerd Karin
2015-01-01
It is unknown how changes in physical activity may affect changes in quality of life (QoL) outcomes during lifestyle interventions for severely obese adults. The purpose of this study was to examine associations in the patterns of change between objectively assessed physical activity as the independent variable and physical, mental, and obesity-specific QoL and life satisfaction as the dependent variables during a two-year lifestyle intervention. Forty-nine severely obese adults (37 women; 43.6 ± 9.4 years; body mass index 42.1 ± 6.0 kg/m2) participated in the study. Assessments were conducted four times using Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), Obesity-Related Problems (OP) scale, a single item on life satisfaction, and accelerometers. The physical component summary (PCS) score and the mental component summary (MCS) score were used as SF-36 outcomes. Associations were determined using linear regression analyses and reported as standardized coefficients (stand. coeff.). Change in physical activity was independently associated with change in PCS (stand. coeff. = 0.35, P = .033), MCS (stand. coeff. = 0.51, P = .001), OP (stand. coeff. = −0.31, P = .018), and life satisfaction (stand. coeff. = 0.39, P = .004) after adjustment for gender, age, and change in body mass index. PMID:25653871
Xie, Bing; Xiao, Shi-chu; Zhu, Shi-hui; Xia, Zhao-fan
2012-05-01
We sought to evaluate the long term health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients survived severely extensive burn and identify their clinical predicting factors correlated with HRQOL. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 20 patients survived more than 2 years with extensive burn involving ≥70% total body surface area (TBSA) between 1997 and 2009 in a burn center in Shanghai. Short Form-36 Medical Outcomes Survey (SF-36), Brief Version of Burn Specific Health Scale (BSHS-B) and Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ) were used for the present evaluation. SF-36 scores were compared with a healthy Chinese population, and linear correlation analysis was performed to screen the clinical relating factors predicting physical and mental component summary (PCS and MCS) scores from SF-36. HRQOL scores from SF-36 were significantly lower in the domains of physical functioning, role limitations due to physical problems, pain, social functioning and role limitations due to emotional problems compared with population norms. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that only return to work (RTW) predicted improved PCS. While age at injury, facial burns, skin grafting and length of hospital stay were correlated with MCS. Work, body image and heat sensitivity obtained the lowest BSHS-B scores in all 9 domains. Improvements of HRQOL could still be seen in BSHS-B scores in domains of simple abilities, hand function, work and affect even after a quite long interval between burns and testing. Hand function of extensive burn patients obtained relatively poor MHQ scores, especially in those without RTW. Patients with extensive burns have a poorer quality of life compared with that of general population. Relatively poor physical and psychological problems still exist even after a long period. Meanwhile, a trend of gradual improvements was noted. This information will aid clinicians in decision-making of comprehensive systematic regimens for long term rehabilitation
Riley, B S; Cox, D L
1988-01-01
In vitro propagation of Treponema pallidum can be achieved by cocultivation with Sf1Ep cells. This study had two objectives: (i) to achieve suspension cultivation of Sf1Ep cells and (ii) to develop procedures for achieving the replication of T. pallidum in those cell cultures. Seven suspension cultures of Sf1Ep cells yielded an average of 7.2 x 10(8) T. pallidum (36-fold increase) after 12 days. Images PMID:3063209
Kaholokula, Joseph Keawe'aimoku; Haynes, Stephen N; Grandinetti, Andrew; Chang, Healani K
2006-02-01
To examine ethnic differences in the relationship between depressive symptoms and specific aspects of heath-related quality of life in people with type 2 diabetes. Cross-sectional data from 190 people with type 2 diabetes of Native Hawaiian (50%), Filipino (16%), Japanese (18%), and mixed-ethnic (16%) ancestries from the rural community of North Kōhala, Hawai'i were examined in this study. Depressive symptoms were measured with the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale. Health-related quality of life was measured with the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36). Eight health-related quality of life constructs were examined: Physical Functioning, Role-Physical Functioning, Role-Emotional Functioning, Social Functioning, Bodily Pain, Vitality, General Health, and Health Transition. Hierarchical regression analyses of the interaction between ethnicity and the SF-36 subscales of Physical Functioning, Role-Emotional Functioning, Bodily Pain, Vitality, and General Health indicated statistically significant associations with CES-D scores after controlling for sociodemographic factors, glycemic status, and social support. Ethnicity moderated the relationship between depressive symptoms and the health-related quality of life aspects of physical and role-emotional functioning, bodily pain, vitality, and general health perception in people with type 2 diabetes. This relationship was strongest for Filipinos followed by Native Hawaiians and people of mixed-ethnic ancestries.
Alishiri, Gholam Hossein; Bayat, Noushin; Fathi Ashtiani, Ali; Tavallaii, Seyed Abbas; Assari, Shervin; Moharamzad, Yashar
2008-01-01
The aim of this work was to develop two logistic regression models capable of predicting physical and mental health related quality of life (HRQOL) among rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. In this cross-sectional study which was conducted during 2006 in the outpatient rheumatology clinic of our university hospital, Short Form 36 (SF-36) was used for HRQOL measurements in 411 RA patients. A cutoff point to define poor versus good HRQOL was calculated using the first quartiles of SF-36 physical and mental component scores (33.4 and 36.8, respectively). Two distinct logistic regression models were used to derive predictive variables including demographic, clinical, and psychological factors. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of each model were calculated. Poor physical HRQOL was positively associated with pain score, disease duration, monthly family income below 300 US$, comorbidity, patient global assessment of disease activity or PGA, and depression (odds ratios: 1.1; 1.004; 15.5; 1.1; 1.02; 2.08, respectively). The variables that entered into the poor mental HRQOL prediction model were monthly family income below 300 US$, comorbidity, PGA, and bodily pain (odds ratios: 6.7; 1.1; 1.01; 1.01, respectively). Optimal sensitivity and specificity were achieved at a cutoff point of 0.39 for the estimated probability of poor physical HRQOL and 0.18 for mental HRQOL. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the physical and mental models were 73.8, 87, 83.7% and 90.38, 70.36, 75.43%, respectively. The results show that the suggested models can be used to predict poor physical and mental HRQOL separately among RA patients using simple variables with acceptable accuracy. These models can be of use in the clinical decision-making of RA patients and to recognize patients with poor physical or mental HRQOL in advance, for better management.
The validity of the SF-12 and SF-6D instruments in people living with HIV/AIDS in Kenya.
Patel, Anik R; Lester, Richard T; Marra, Carlo A; van der Kop, Mia L; Ritvo, Paul; Engel, Lidia; Karanja, Sarah; Lynd, Larry D
2017-07-17
Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and health state utility value (HSUV) measurements are vital components of healthcare clinical and economic evaluations. Accurate measurement of HSUV and HRQoL require validated instruments. The 12-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) is one of few instruments that can evaluate both HRQoL and HSUV, but its validity has not been assessed in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in east Africa, where the burden of HIV is high. This cross-sectional study used baseline data from a randomized trial involving PLWHA in Kenya. Data included responses from a translated and adapted SF-12 survey as well as key demographic and clinical data. Construct validity of the survey was examined by testing the SF-12's ability to distinguish between groups known in advance to have differences in their health based on their disease severity. We classified disease severity based on established definitions from the US Center for Disease Control (CDC) and WHO, as well as a previously studied viral load threshold. T-tests and ANOVA were used to test for differences in HRQoL and HSUV scores. Area under the receive operator curve (AUC) was used to test the discriminative ability of the HRQoL and HSUV instruments. Differences in physical component scores met the minimum clinically important difference among participants with more advanced HIV when defined by CD4 count (4.3 units) and WHO criteria (compared to stage 1, stages 2, 3 and 4 were 2.0, 7.2 and 9.8 units lower respectively). Mental score differences met the minimum clinically important difference between WHO stage 1 and stage 4 patients (4.4). Differences in the HSUV were statistically lower in more advanced HIV by all three definitions of severity. The AUC showed poor to weak discriminatory ability in most analyses, but had fair discriminatory ability between WHO clinical stage 1 and clinical stage 4 individuals (AUC = 0.71). Our findings suggest that the Kiswahili translated and adapted
The reliability and validity of the SF-8 with a conflict-affected population in northern Uganda.
Roberts, Bayard; Browne, John; Ocaka, Kaducu Felix; Oyok, Thomas; Sondorp, Egbert
2008-12-02
The SF-8 is a health-related quality of life instrument that could provide a useful means of assessing general physical and mental health amongst populations affected by conflict. The purpose of this study was to test the validity and reliability of the SF-8 with a conflict-affected population in northern Uganda. A cross-sectional multi-staged, random cluster survey was conducted with 1206 adults in camps for internally displaced persons in Gulu and Amuru districts of northern Uganda. Data quality was assessed by analysing the number of incomplete responses to SF-8 items. Response distribution was analysed using aggregate endorsement frequency. Test-retest reliability was assessed in a separate smaller survey using the intraclass correlation test. Construct validity was measured using principal component analysis, and the Pearson Correlation test for item-summary score correlation and inter-instrument correlations. Known groups validity was assessed using a two sample t-test to evaluates the ability of the SF-8 to discriminate between groups known to have, and not have, physical and mental health problems. The SF-8 showed excellent data quality. It showed acceptable item response distribution based upon analysis of aggregate endorsement frequencies. Test-retest showed a good intraclass correlation of 0.61 for PCS and 0.68 for MCS. The principal component analysis indicated strong construct validity and concurred with the results of the validity tests by the SF-8 developers. The SF-8 also showed strong construct validity between the 8 items and PCS and MCS summary score, moderate inter-instrument validity, and strong known groups validity. This study provides evidence on the reliability and validity of the SF-8 amongst IDPs in northern Uganda.
Bataclan, Rommel P; Dial, Ma Antonietta D
2009-10-01
Chronic kidney disease is the 10th leading cause of death among Filipinos. Those with chronic kidney disease are exposed to stressors which effect their daily lives. Therefore, assessment of health-related quality of life is important in these patients. The objective of the present study was to translate the Kidney Disease Quality of Life--Short Form version 1.3 (KDQOL-SF ver. 1.3) into Filipino and measure its validity and reliability. Translation and cultural adaptation began with two translations into Filipino, with reconciliation of the forward translators. Pretesting with 10 renal patients, review by experts (nephrologist, translator and dialysis nurse) and back-translation was also done. The final questionnaire was administered to 80 patients with chronic renal disease undergoing haemodialysis for at least 3 months, who could understand Filipino, and were without life-threatening or terminal conditions at the time of the test. A convenience sample of 30 patients from the group had a repeat test 10-14 days after to determine test-retest reliability. Test-retest reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient and internal consistency reliability was measured by determining the Cronbach's alpha value. Validity was measured using Pearson's correlation between the overall health rating scale and the items from the questionnaire. All of the items showed good test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.40), ranging from 0.58 (social interaction) to 0.98 (role--emotional). Internal consistency reliability values were acceptable, with Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.60 (cognitive function) to 0.80 (physical functioning and role--physical). Regarding construct validity, overall health rating in kidney disease-targeted scales was significantly correlated with symptoms/problems, effects of kidney disease and burden of kidney disease. All items in the SF 36 scales had significant correlation with overall health rating (P < 0.05) except
M4SF-17LL010302072: The Roles of Diffusion and Corrosion in Radionuclide Retardation
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Zavarin, Mavrik; Balboni, E.; Atkins-Duffin, Cindy
This progress report (Level 4 Milestone Number M4SF-17LL010302072) summarizes research conducted at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) within the Crystalline Disposal R&D Activity Number M4SF-17LL01030207 and Crystalline International Collaborations Activity Number M4SF-17LL01030208. The focus of this research is the interaction of radionuclides with Engineered Barrier System (EBS) and host rock materials at various physicochemical conditions relevant to subsurface repository environments. They include both chemical and physical processes such as solubility, sorption, and diffusion.
Prediction on dielectric strength and boiling point of gaseous molecules for replacement of SF6.
Yu, Xiaojuan; Hou, Hua; Wang, Baoshan
2017-04-15
Developing the environment-friendly insulation gases to replace sulfur hexafluoride (SF 6 ) has attracted considerable experimental and theoretical attentions but without success. A computational methodology was presented herein for prediction on dielectric strength and boiling point of arbitrary gaseous molecules in the purpose of molecular design and screening. New structure-activity relationship (SAR) models have been established by combining the density-dependent properties of the electrostatic potential surface, including surface area and the statistical variance of the surface potentials, with the molecular properties including polarizability, electronegativity, and hardness. All the descriptors in the SAR models were calculated using density functional theory. The substitution effect of SF 6 by various functional groups was studied systematically. It was found that CF 3 is the most effective functional group to improve the dielectric strength due to the large surface area and polarizability. However, all the substitutes exhibit higher boiling points than SF 6 because the molecular hardness decreases. The balance between E r and T b could be achieved by minimizing the local polarity of the molecules. SF 5 CN and SF 5 CFO were found to be the potent candidates to replace SF 6 in view of their large dielectric strengths and low boiling points. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cucciare, Michael A; Gray, Heather; Azar, Armin; Jimenez, Daniel; Gallagher-Thompson, Dolores
2010-04-01
The present study examined the relationship between self-reported physical health, depressive symptoms, and the occurrence of depression diagnosis in Hispanic female dementia caregivers. Participants were 89 Hispanic female dementia caregivers. This study used a cross-sectional design. Baseline depression and physical health data were collected from participants enrolled in the 'Reducing Stress in Hispanic Anglo Dementia Caregivers' study sponsored by the National Institute on Aging. Physical health was assessed using the Medical Outcome Study Short Form-36 (SF-36), a one-item self-report health rating, body mass index, and the presence or history of self-reported physical illness. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D). The occurrence of depression diagnosis was assessed using the Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID). Multiple linear and logistic regression analysis was used to examine the extent to which indices of physical health and depressive symptoms accounted for variance in participants' depressive symptoms and depressive diagnoses. Self-reported indices of health (e.g., SF-36) accounted for a significant portion of variance in both CES-D scores and SCID diagnoses. Caregivers who reported worsened health tended to report increased symptoms of depression on the CES-D and increased likelihood of an SCID diagnosis of a depressive disorder. Self-reported health indices are helpful in identifying Hispanic dementia caregivers at risk for clinical levels of depression.
Cnossen, Maryse C; Polinder, Suzanne; Vos, Pieter E; Lingsma, Hester F; Steyerberg, Ewout W; Sun, Yanming; Ye, Pengpeng; Duan, Leilei; Haagsma, Juanita A
2017-04-14
There is growing interest in health related quality of life (HRQoL) as an outcome measure in international trials. However, there might be differences in the conceptualization of HRQoL across different socio-cultural groups. The objectives of current study were: (I) to compare HRQoL, measured with the short form (SF)-36 of Dutch and Chinese traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients 1 year after injury and; (II) to assess whether differences in SF-36 profiles could be explained by cultural differences in HRQoL conceptualization. TBI patients are of particular interest because this is an important cause of diverse impairments and disabilities in functional, physical, emotional, cognitive, and social domains that may drastically reduce HRQoL. A prospective cohort study on adult TBI patients in the Netherlands (RUBICS) and a retrospective cohort study in China were used to compare HRQoL 1 year post-injury. Differences on subscales were assessed with the Mann-Whitney U-test. The internal consistency, interscale correlations, item-internal consistency and item-discriminate validity of Dutch and Chinese SF-36 profiles were examined. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to assess whether Dutch and Chinese data fitted the SF-36 two factor-model (physical and mental construct). Four hundred forty seven Dutch and 173 Chinese TBI patients were included. Dutch patients obtained significantly higher scores on role limitations due to emotional problems (p < .001) and general health (p < .001), while Chinese patients obtained significantly higher scores on physical functioning (p < .001) and bodily pain (p = .001). Scores on these subscales were not explained by cultural differences in conceptualization, since item- and scale statistics were all sufficient. However, differences among Dutch and Chinese patients were found in the conceptualization of the domains vitality, mental health and social functioning. One year after TBI, Dutch and Chinese patients
Is constipation associated with decreased physical activity in normally active subjects?
Tuteja, Ashok K; Talley, Nicholas J; Joos, Sandra K; Woehl, James V; Hickam, David H
2005-01-01
The effectiveness of physical activity in the management of constipation remains controversial. We examined the associations among physical activity, constipation, and quality of life (QoL) in a population of employed adults to determine whether the risk of constipation is related to physical activity. A total of 1,069 employees (age range 24-77) of the Veterans Affairs (VA) Black Hills Health Care System were mailed validated questionnaires (response rate 72%), inquiring about bowel habits, QoL (SF 36), and physical activity (modified Baecke questionnaire). Constipation was defined using the Rome I criteria. One hundred and forty (19.4%, 95% CI 16.2-22.4) employees reported constipation. The average total physical activity and all subscales of physical activity were not significantly different in subjects with and without constipation (all p > or = 0.2). Subjects with constipation had lower QoL scores than subjects without constipation, and physical activity was positively correlated with physical functioning and health perception. Physical activity appears to be unrelated to the risk of constipation in employed adults, but higher physical activity was associated with improved QoL. Recommendations to increase physical activity may not alter symptoms of constipation but may improve overall well-being.
Lee, Jung Weon
2015-01-01
The membrane protein TM4SF5, a member of the transmembrane 4L six family, forms a tetraspanin-enriched microdomain (TEM) on the cell surface, where many different membrane proteins and receptors form a massive protein-protein complex to regulate cellular functions including transdifferentiation, migration, and invasion. We recently reported that TM4SF5 causes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), eventually contributing to aberrant multilayer cellular growth, drug resistance, enhanced migration, invasion, its circulation in the blood, tumor initiation for successful metastasis, and muscle development in zebrafish. In this review, I summarize the information on the role of TM4SF5 in EMT-related functions at TM4SF5-enriched microdomain (T5EM) on cell surface, where proteins such as TM4SF5, CD151, CD44, integrins, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) can form numerous protein complexes. TM4SF5-mediated EMT contributes to diverse cellular functions, leading to fibrotic phenotypes and initiating and maintaining tumors in primary and/or metastatic regions, in addition to its role in muscle development in zebrafish. Anti-TM4SF5 strategies for addressing the protein networks can lead to regulation of the fibrotic, tumorigenic, and tumor-maintaining functions of TM4SF5-positive hepatic cells. This review is for us to (re)consider the antifibrotic or antitumorigenic (i.e., anti-EMT-related diseases) strategies of dealing with protein networks that would be involved in cross-talks to regulate various cellular functions during TM4SF5-dependent progression from fibrotic to cancerous hepatic cells. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Miyashita, Mitsunori; Narita, Yugo; Sakamoto, Aki; Kawada, Norikazu; Akiyama, Miki; Kayama, Mami; Suzukamo, Yoshimi; Fukuhara, Shunichi
2011-02-01
The aims of this study were: (i) to clarify the general quality of life (QOL) of patients with intractable neurological disease; (ii) to clarify the general QOL of the caregivers of these patients; and (iii) to explore the association of QOL in patient-caregiver pairs. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 2003 and May 2004 among community-dwelling patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD), spinocerebellar degeneration (SCD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and their caregivers using a mailed, self-administered questionnaire. To measure QOL, we used the Medical Outcome Study 36-Item Short Form (SF-36) for patients and the short form of the health-related QOL scale SF-36 (SF-8) for caregivers. A total of 418 questionnaires were analyzed. For the patients, all of the general QOL domains of the SF-36 were significantly lower than the national standard value for all of the diagnoses. Physical function, role physical, and role emotional domains were also low. For caregivers, all of the QOL summary scores of the SF-8 for all diagnoses were significantly lower than the national standard value. Although there were several significant correlations of QOL between patients and caregivers, overall the correlations were low. Support for patients with neurological diseases and their caregivers is needed in order to maintain physical and mental QOL. © 2010 The Authors. Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences © 2010 Japanese Society of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Crystal, S; Fleishman, J A; Hays, R D; Shapiro, M F; Bozzette, S A
2000-12-01
Functional limitations of persons living with HIV affect their care needs and ability to perform social roles such as employment. Earlier estimates are outdated, and nationally representative estimates of prevalence and distribution of these limitations have not previously been available. The objectives of this study were to characterize physical and role limitations experienced by adults in care for HIV disease in the United States and to analyze variations by demographic and health characteristics in a multivariate framework. Among 2,836 respondents in the HIV Cost and Services Utilization Survey, we assessed physical functioning with a 9-item scale designed to span a broad continuum of tasks and administered the 2-item ACTG SF-21 role functioning scale. Linearization methods were used to account for the multistage survey design. Limitation in complex roles-working at a job, working around the house, or going to school-was more prevalent than limitation in most specific physical tasks. Among physical tasks, limitation was more prevalent in energy-demanding activities such as climbing stairs (43%) or walking >1 block (26%) than in self-care tasks such as bathing and dressing (14%). Greater limitation was associated with older age, lower educational attainment, more advanced disease, and higher symptom burden. Protease inhibitor treatment was associated with somewhat less physical limitation but no difference in role limitation. Functional status varied widely, suggesting the need for flexible, individualized care system responses. Results identified subgroups whose needs warrant special attention. Symptom intensity, pain, and fatigue were strongly associated with limitation; improved management of these disease manifestations might improve physical and social functioning.
Voice symptoms and voice-related quality of life in college students.
Merrill, Ray M; Tanner, Kristine; Merrill, Joseph G; McCord, Matthew D; Beardsley, Melissa M; Steele, Brittanie A
2013-08-01
The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of voice disorders in college students and their effect on the students as shown by quality-of-life indicators. A cross-sectional survey was completed by 545 college students in 2012. The survey included 10 questions from the Voice-Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL), selected voice symptoms, and quality-of-life indicators of functional health and well-being based on the Short Form 36-item Health Survey (SF-36). Twenty-nine percent of the college students (mean age, 22.7 years) reported a history of a voice disorder. Hoarseness was the most prevalent voice symptom, but was not correlated with V-RQOL scores. A wobbly or shaky voice, throat dryness, vocal fatigue, and vocal effort explained a significant amount of variance on the social-emotional and physical domains of the V-RQOL index (p < 0.05). Voice symptoms limited emotional and physical functioning as indicated by SF-36 scores. Voice disorders significantly influence psychosocial and physical functioning in college students. These findings have important implications for voice-care services in this population.
Gadermann, Anne M; Sawatzky, Richard; Palepu, Anita; Hubley, Anita M; Zumbo, Bruno D; Aubry, Tim; Farrell, Susan; Hwang, Stephen W
2017-06-01
The purpose of this study was to examine whether homeless or vulnerably housed individuals experienced response shift over a 12-month time period in their self-reported physical and mental health status. Data were obtained from the Health and Housing in Transition study, a longitudinal multi-site cohort study in Canada (N = 1190 at baseline). Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis (MG-CFA) and methods for response shift detection at the item level, based on the approach by Oort, were used to test for reconceptualization, reprioritization, and recalibration response shift on the SF-12 in four groups of individuals who were homeless (n = 170), housed (n = 437), or who reported a change in their housing status [from homeless to housed (n = 285) or housed to homeless (n = 73)] over a 12-month time period. Mean and variance adjusted weighted-least squares estimation was used to accommodate the ordinal and binary distributions of the SF-12 items. Using MG-CFA, a strict invariance model showed that the measurement model was equivalent for the four groups at baseline. Although we found small but statistically significant response shift for several measurement model parameters, the impact on the predicted average mental and physical health scores within each of the groups was small. Response shift does not appear to be a significant concern when using the SF-12 to obtain change scores over a 12-month period in this population.
SF-1 a key player in the development and differentiation of steroidogenic tissues
Val, Pierre; Lefrançois-Martinez, Anne-Marie; Veyssière, Georges; Martinez, Antoine
2003-01-01
Since its discovery in the early 1990s, the orphan nuclear receptor SF-1 has been attributed a central role in the development and differentiation of steroidogenic tissues. SF-1 controls the expression of all the steroidogenic enzymes and cholesterol transporters required for steroidogenesis as well as the expression of steroidogenesis-stimulating hormones and their cognate receptors. SF-1 is also an essential regulator of genes involved in the sex determination cascade. The study of SF-1 null mice and of human mutants has been of great value to demonstrate the essential role of this factor in vivo, although the complete adrenal and gonadal agenesis in knock-out animals has impeded studies of its function as a transcriptional regulator. In particular, the role of SF-1 in the hormonal responsiveness of steroidogenic genes promoters is still a subject of debate. This extensive review takes into account recent data obtained from SF-1 haploinsufficient mice, pituitary-specific knock-outs and from transgenic mice experiments carried out with SF-1 target gene promoters. It also summarizes the pros and cons regarding the presumed role of SF-1 in cAMP signalling. PMID:14594453
Martin, H C; Sethi, J; Lang, D; Neil-Dwyer, G; Lutman, M E; Yardley, L
2001-02-01
The aim of this study was to assess whether outcomes from excision of acoustic neuroma vary among patients and have a material impact on their quality of life (QOL). A questionnaire concerning postoperative symptoms and the Short Form 36 (SF-36) QOL instrument were mailed to 97 consecutive patients who had undergone acoustic neuroma surgery via the translabyrinthine approach. The survey response rate was 78% and the symptomatology was consistent with other reports, supporting the representativeness of the sample. The respondents' QOL was rated significantly below published norms and their work capacity was reportedly reduced. Specifically, the following SF-36 dimensions were reduced: physical functioning and role-physical, together with vitality, general health, and social functioning. Greater numbers of postoperative symptoms and larger tumors were associated with a worse rating of physical functioning. More severe balance problems were associated with lower ratings of social functioning. The disparity between the patient's self-estimate and self-measurement and the clinician's assessment of the patient's facial functioning raises doubts about the validity of subjective reports and assessment. The present study supports the use of generic QOL measures to assess outcome and to draw comparisons between different populations.
Quality of Life in Patients with Gluten Neuropathy: A Case-Controlled Study.
Zis, Panagiotis; Sarrigiannis, Ptolemaios Georgios; Rao, Dasappaiah Ganesh; Hadjivassiliou, Marios
2018-05-23
Gluten neuropathy (GN) is defined as an otherwise idiopathic peripheral neuropathy in the presence of serological evidence of gluten sensitivity (positive native gliadin antibodies and/or transglutaminase or endomysium antibodies). We aimed to compare the quality of life (QoL) of GN patients with that of control subjects and to investigate the effects of a gluten-free diet (GFD) on the QoL. All consecutive patients with GN attending a specialist neuropathy clinic were invited to participate. The Overall Neuropathy Limitations Scale (ONLS) was used to assess the severity of the neuropathy. The 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) questionnaire was used to measure participants’ QoL. A strict GFD was defined as effectively being able to eliminate all circulating gluten sensitivity-related antibodies. Fifty-three patients with GN and 53 age- and gender-matched controls were recruited. Compared to controls, GN patients showed significantly worse scores in the physical functioning, role limitations due to physical health, energy/fatigue, and general health subdomains of the SF-36. After adjusting for age, gender, and disease severity, being on a strict GFD correlated with better SF-36 scores in the pain domain of the SF-36 (beta 0.317, p = 0.019) and in the overall health change domain of the SF-36 (beta 0.306, p = 0.017). In GN patients, physical dysfunctioning is the major determinant of poor QoL compared to controls. Routine checking of the elimination of gluten sensitivity-related antibodies that results from a strict GFD should be encouraged, as such elimination ameliorates the overall pain and health scores, indicating a better QoL.
Lana, Alberto; Struijk, Ellen; Guallar-Castillón, Pilar; Martín-Moreno, Jose María; Rodríguez Artalejo, Fernando; Lopez-Garcia, Esther
2016-11-01
leptin resistance, which may develop during the ageing process, stimulates the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and insulin resistance that could impair the muscle function. However, the role of leptin on physical functioning among older adults has not yet been elucidated. to examine the association between serum leptin levels and physical function impairment in older adults. prospective study of 1,556 individuals 60 years and older from the Seniors-ENRICA cohort, who were free of physical function limitation at baseline. serum leptin was measured in 2008-10, and incident functional limitation was assessed through 2012. Self-reported limitations in agility and mobility were assessed with the Rosow and Breslau scale, limitation in the lower extremity function was measured with the Short Physical Performance Battery, and impairment in the overall physical performance with the physical component summary of the SF-12. after adjustment for potential confounders and compared to individuals in the lowest quartile of leptin concentration, those in the highest quartile showed increased risk of impaired physical function; the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) and P-trend was: 1.95 (1.11-3.43), P = 0.006 for self-reported impaired mobility; 1.76 (1.08-2.87), P = 0.02 for self-reported impaired agility; 1.48 (1.02-2.15), P = 0.04 for limitation in the lower extremity function; and 1.97 (1.20-3.22), P = 0.01, for decreased overall physical performance. These associations were only modestly explained by C-reactive protein and insulin resistance. Moreover, the associations held across groups with varying health status and were independent of estimated total body fat. higher leptin concentration was associated with increased risk of impaired physical function. Preserving metabolic function during the old age could help delaying physical function decline. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Geriatrics Society. All
The reliability and validity of the SF-8 with a conflict-affected population in northern Uganda
Roberts, Bayard; Browne, John; Ocaka, Kaducu Felix; Oyok, Thomas; Sondorp, Egbert
2008-01-01
Background The SF-8 is a health-related quality of life instrument that could provide a useful means of assessing general physical and mental health amongst populations affected by conflict. The purpose of this study was to test the validity and reliability of the SF-8 with a conflict-affected population in northern Uganda. Methods A cross-sectional multi-staged, random cluster survey was conducted with 1206 adults in camps for internally displaced persons in Gulu and Amuru districts of northern Uganda. Data quality was assessed by analysing the number of incomplete responses to SF-8 items. Response distribution was analysed using aggregate endorsement frequency. Test-retest reliability was assessed in a separate smaller survey using the intraclass correlation test. Construct validity was measured using principal component analysis, and the Pearson Correlation test for item-summary score correlation and inter-instrument correlations. Known groups validity was assessed using a two sample t-test to evaluates the ability of the SF-8 to discriminate between groups known to have, and not have, physical and mental health problems. Results The SF-8 showed excellent data quality. It showed acceptable item response distribution based upon analysis of aggregate endorsement frequencies. Test-retest showed a good intraclass correlation of 0.61 for PCS and 0.68 for MCS. The principal component analysis indicated strong construct validity and concurred with the results of the validity tests by the SF-8 developers. The SF-8 also showed strong construct validity between the 8 items and PCS and MCS summary score, moderate inter-instrument validity, and strong known groups validity. Conclusion This study provides evidence on the reliability and validity of the SF-8 amongst IDPs in northern Uganda. PMID:19055716
Carreon, Leah Y.; Anderson, Paul A.; McDonough, Christine M.; Djurasovic, Mladen; Glassman, Steven D.
2010-01-01
Study Design Cross-sectional cohort Objective This study aims to provide an algorithm estimate SF-6D utilities using data from the NDI, neck pain and arm pain scores. Summary of Background Data Although cost-utility analysis is increasingly used to provide information about the relative value of alternative interventions, health state values or utilities are rarely available from clinical trial data. The Neck Disability Index (NDI) and numeric rating scales for neck and arm pain, are widely used disease-specific measures of symptoms, function and disability in patients with cervical degenerative disorders. The purpose of this study is to provide an algorithm to allow estimation of SF-6D utilities using data from the NDI, and numeric rating scales for neck and arm pain. Methods SF-36, NDI, neck and arm pain rating scale scores were prospectively collected pre-operatively, at 12 and 24 months post-operatively in 2080 patients undergoing cervical fusion for degenerative disorders. SF-6D utilities were computed and Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated for paired observations from multiple time points between NDI, neck and arm pain scores and SF-6D utility scores. SF-6D scores were estimated from the NDI, neck and arm pain scores using a linear regression model. Using a separate, independent dataset of 396 patients in which and NDI scores were available SF-6D was estimated for each subject and compared to their actual SF-6D. Results The mean age for those in the development sample, was 50.4 ± 11.0 years and 33% were male. In the validation sample the mean age was 53.1 ± 9.9 years and 35% were male. Correlations between the SF-6D and the NDI, neck and arm pain scores were statistically significant (p<0.0001) with correlation coefficients of 0.82, 0.62, and 0.50 respectively. The regression equation using NDI alone to predict SF-6D had an R2 of 0.66 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.056. In the validation analysis, there was no statistically
Determinants of quality of life in stroke survivors and their informal caregivers.
Jönsson, Ann-Cathrin; Lindgren, Ingrid; Hallström, Björn; Norrving, Bo; Lindgren, Arne
2005-04-01
We examined longitudinal changes of quality of life (QOL) covering physical and mental factors in an unselected group of stroke patients and their informal caregivers. Our hypothesis was that informal caregivers would have better QOL than patients at both follow-ups, and that changes, if any, would be related to the patients' status. QOL of 304 consecutive stroke patients and their 234 informal caregivers from the population-based Lund Stroke Register was assessed 4 months after stroke onset with the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. SF-36 was repeated for both groups after 16 months together with Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-20) for patients. The patients' mean QOL scores improved between 4 and 16 months after stroke in the socio-emotional and mental SF-36 domains and decreased in the domain physical function. Multivariate analyses showed that the patients' most important determinants of QOL after 16 months were GDS-20 score, functional status, age, and gender. Informal caregivers had better QOL than patients except for the domain role emotional and the mental component summary. The caregivers' most important determinants of QOL were their own age and the patients' functional status. Our study highlights depressive symptoms in determining QOL of stroke patients. Despite self-perceived deterioration in physical function over time, several other components of QOL improved, suggesting internal adaptation to changes in their life situations. Informal caregivers of stroke patients may be under considerable strain as suggested by their lower emotional-mental scores.
Visual impairment, visual functioning, and quality of life assessments in patients with glaucoma.
Parrish, R K
1996-01-01
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: To determine the relation between visual impairment, visual functioning, and the global quality of life in patients with glaucoma. METHODS: Visual impairment, defined with the American Medical Association Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment; visual functioning, measured with the VF-14 and the Field Test Version of the National Eye Institute-Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ); and the global quality of life, assessed with the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), were determined in 147 consecutive patients with glaucoma. RESULTS: None of the SF-36 domains demonstrated more than a weak correlation with visual impairment. The VF-14 scores were moderately correlated with visual impairment. Of the twelve NEI-VFQ scales, distance activities and vision specific dependency were moderately correlated with visual impairment. Of the twelve NEI-VFQ scales, distance activities and vision specific dependency were moderately correlated with visual field impairment; vision specific social functioning, near activities, vision specific role difficulties, general vision, vision specific mental health, color vision, and driving were modestly correlated; visual pain was weakly correlated; and two were not significantly correlated. Correcting for visual actuity weakened the strength of the correlation coefficients. CONCLUSIONS: The SF-36 is unlikely to be useful in determining visual impairment in patients with glaucoma. Based on the moderate correlation between visual field impairment and the VF-14 score, this questionnaire may be generalizable to patients with glaucoma. Several of the NEI-VFQ scales correlate with visual field impairment scores in patients with a wide range of glaucomatous damage. PMID:8981717
Gonzalez, Brian D; Jim, Heather S L; Small, Brent J; Sutton, Steven K; Fishman, Mayer N; Zachariah, Babu; Heysek, Randy V; Jacobsen, Paul B
2016-05-01
The purpose of the study is to examine changes in muscle strength and self-reported physical functioning in men receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer compared to matched controls. Prostate cancer patients scheduled to begin ADT (n = 62) were assessed within 20 days of starting ADT and 6 and 12 months later. Age and geographically matched prostate cancer controls treated with prostatectomy only (n = 86) were assessed at similar time intervals. Grip strength measured upper body strength, the Chair Rise Test measured lower body strength, and the SF-12 Physical Functioning scale measured self-reported physical functioning. As expected, self-reported physical functioning and upper body muscle strength declined in ADT recipients but remained stable in prostate cancer controls. Contrary to expectations, lower body muscle strength remained stable in ADT recipients but improved in prostate cancer controls. Higher Gleason scores, more medical comorbidities, and less exercise at baseline predicted greater declines in physical functioning in ADT recipients. ADT is associated with declines in self-reported physical functioning and upper body muscle strength as well as worse lower body muscle strength relative to prostate cancer controls. These findings should be included in patient education regarding the risks and benefits of ADT. Findings also underscore the importance of conducting research on ways to prevent or reverse declines in physical functioning in this patient population.
Cruz, Luciane Nascimento; Camey, Suzi Alves; Fleck, Marcelo Pio; Polanczyk, Carisi Anne
2009-10-01
This study aimed to assess the validity and reliability of World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument (WHOQOL)-brief and SF-36 in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Considering that depression is known to be associated with bad outcomes in CAD and it is highly associated with poor Quality of Life (QOL), we tested the correlation between WHOQOL and SF-36 and an instrument to screen depressive symptoms. It is a cross-sectional survey conducted in 103 patients with documented CAD. QOL was measured through WHOQOL-brief and SF-36 and depressive symptoms were assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). To evaluate convergent validity, the correlations between both QOL assessment instruments were examined; discriminant validity was assessed through BDI and QOL instruments correlations. Coefficient Cronbach's alpha was used to test reliability. Percentages of floor and ceiling effects were higher in SF-36 scores than the WHOQOL-brief ones. Although WHOQOL-brief showed a maximum of 1% of floor effect and 9% of ceiling effect, SF-36 presented 40 and 32%, respectively. Internal consistency reliability ranged from 0.65 to 0.85 for the WHOQOL-brief and 0.57 to 0.89 for the SF-36. Correlations between subscales of WHOQOL-brief and BDI ranged from -0.74 to -0.61 and correlations between subscales of SF-36 and BDI ranged from -0.68 to -0.26. SF-36 and WHOQOL-brief seem to be valid and consistent QOL measures in patients with CAD. Researchers should define the aims of their studies before choosing which instrument to use, because they appear to measure different constructs of QOL.
Lyupina, Yulia V; Erokhov, Pavel A; Kravchuk, Oksana I; Finoshin, Alexander D; Abaturova, Svetlana B; Orlova, Olga V; Beljelarskaya, Svetlana N; Kostyuchenko, Margarita V; Mikhailov, Victor S
2018-06-08
The protein VCP/p97 (also named CDC48 and TER94) belongs to a type II subfamily of the AAA+ATPases and controls cellular proteostasis by acting upstream of proteasomes in the ubiquitin-proteasome protein degradation pathway. The function of VCP/p97 in the baculovirus infection cycle in insect cells remains unknown. Here, we identified VCP/p97 in the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells and analyzed the replication of the Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus, AcMNPV, in Sf9 cells in which the VCP/p97 function was inhibited. The specific allosteric inhibitor of the VCP/p97 ATPase activity, NMS-873, did not deplete VCP/p97 in infected cells but caused a dose-dependent inhibition of viral DNA synthesis and efficiently suppressed expression of viral proteins and production of budded virions. NMS-873 caused accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins in a manner similar to the inhibitor of proteasome activity, Bortezomib. This suggests the essential function of VCP/p97 in the baculovirus infection cycle might be associated, at least in part, with the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Hu, Yaoyue; Pikhart, Hynek; Pająk, Andrzej; Kubínová, Růžena; Malyutina, Sofia; Besala, Agnieszka; Peasey, Anne; Marmot, Michael; Bobak, Martin
2016-11-01
Two competing hypotheses, cumulative advantage/disadvantage and age-as-leveller, have been proposed to explain the contradictory findings on socioeconomic differences in health over the lifespan. To test these hypotheses, this investigation examined the influence of educational attainment and material condition on individual trajectories of physical functioning (PF) in unexplored ageing populations in Central and Eastern Europe. 28 783 men and women aged 45-69 years selected from populations in seven Czech towns, Krakow (Poland) and Novosibirsk (Russia). PF was measured by the Physical Functioning Subscale (PF-10) of the Short-Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36) at baseline and three subsequent occasions. The highest educational attainment was self-reported at baseline, and material condition was captured by the sum score of 12 household amenities and assets. In all cohorts, participants with a university degree had the highest PF-10 score at baseline and slowest rate of decline in the score during follow-up, while the lowest baseline scores and fastest decline rate were found in participants with less than secondary education in all cohorts and in Russians with secondary education. Similar disparities in the baseline PF-10 score and decline rate were observed across tertiles of material condition, but differences in decline rates across the three tertiles among Czechs or between the lower two tertiles among Russians were not statistically significant. Disparities in PF by educational attainment and material condition among middle-aged and older adults in Central and Eastern Europe existed at baseline and widened during ∼10 years of follow-up, supporting the cumulative advantage/disadvantage hypothesis. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.
Del Vecchio, F B; Corrente, J E; Gonçalves, A; Faria, M M; Padovani, C R; Vilarta, R
2007-01-01
One important aggression to human biology is constituted by metallic mercury intoxication, mainly expressed by neuropsychiatric disorders. To explore interaction between the domains of Quality of Life (QoL.) and neuro-muscular evidences in intoxicated people by the metal within an urban-industrial environment. 47 patients have been assessed, through SF36 application and semiological tests. Multiple regression was performed and, to test parameters estimated in adjustments, Student t test was used. Although there are low scores present in the instrument, there have been noticed good results in physical capacities. Muscular strength seems to be an influencing variable on physical and social functioning and mental health (p<0.05). Motor coordination influence on Vitality (p <0.05) was also remarked. As to equilibrium, it presents a negative interaction (p <0.03) with social functioning. Neuropsychiatric disorders influence negatively QoL perception, making people to subestime their motor performances. Complementarily, it is distinguished strength as physical capacity that presents positive interaction with the subjective perception of QV.
Yin, Mianmian; Wang, Xiaorong; Yao, Guidong; Lü, Mingrong; Liang, Meng; Sun, Yingpu; Sun, Fei
2014-06-27
Our previous studies have shown that microRNA-320 (miR-320) is one of the most down-regulated microRNAs (miRNA) in mouse ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) after TGF-β1 treatment. However, the underlying mechanisms of miR-320 involved in GC function during follicular development remain unknown. In this study, we found that pregnant mare serum gonadotropin treatment resulted in the suppression of miR-320 expression in a time-dependent manner. miR-320 was mainly expressed in GCs and oocytes of mouse ovarian follicles in follicular development. Overexpression of miR-320 inhibited estradiol synthesis and proliferation of GCs through targeting E2F1 and SF-1. E2F1/SF-1 mediated miR-320-induced suppression of GC proliferation and of GC steroidogenesis. FSH down-regulated the expression of miR-320 and regulated the function of miR-320 in mouse GCs. miR-383 promoted the expression of miR-320 and enhanced miR-320-mediated suppression of GC proliferation. Injection of miR-320 into the ovaries of mice partially promoted the production of testosterone and progesterone but inhibited estradiol release in vivo. Moreover, the expression of miR-320 and miR-383 was up-regulated in the follicular fluid of polycystic ovarian syndrome patients, although the expression of E2F1 and SF-1 was down-regulated in GCs. These data demonstrated that miR-320 regulates the proliferation and steroid production by targeting E2F1 and SF-1 in the follicular development. Understanding the regulation of miRNA biogenesis and function in the follicular development will potentiate the usefulness of miRNA in the treatment of reproduction and some steroid-related disorders. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Brown, Linda F; Kroenke, Kurt; Theobald, Dale E; Wu, Jingwei
2011-08-01
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is an important symptom in clinical practice and research. The best way to measure it, however, remains unsettled. The SF-36 vitality scale, a general measure of energy/fatigue, is a frequently cited measure. With only four items, however, its ability to adequately represent multiple CRF facets has been questioned. The 13-item Fatigue Symptom Inventory (FSI) was developed to assess multidimensional aspects of CRF. Our objectives were to assess the convergent validity and to compare the sensitivity to change of the two scales. We administered both scales at 1 month (n = 68) and 6 months (n = 96) to a subset of heterogeneous patients receiving treatment in 16 cancer centers who were enrolled in a clinical trial of pain and depression. Distributions of standardized response means (SRMs) were compared to assess sensitivity to change. Results of both scales were compared to scores on a single fatigue item from the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ). Mean scores for both the FSI and the vitality scale demonstrated clinically significant fatigue in the sample. The vitality scale was strongly correlated with all three FSI scales (r = -0.68 to -0.77). The vitality and FSI scales also correlated strongly with the PHQ fatigue item. Moreover, distributions of SRMs for both scales were approximately normal. Both the FSI and the vitality scale are supported as valid measures of CRF. Both demonstrated sensitivity to change across a range of effect sizes. The vitality scale may be an excellent choice when brevity is paramount; the FSI may be more appropriate when tapping specific dimensions is warranted.
Biochemical analysis of the biosynthetic pathway of an anticancer tetracycline SF2575.
Pickens, Lauren B; Kim, Woncheol; Wang, Peng; Zhou, Hui; Watanabe, Kenji; Gomi, Shuichi; Tang, Yi
2009-12-09
SF2575 1 is a tetracycline polyketide produced by Streptomyces sp. SF2575 and displays exceptionally potent anticancer activity toward a broad range of cancer cell lines. The structure of SF2575 is characterized by a highly substituted tetracycline aglycon. The modifications include methylation of the C-6 and C-12a hydroxyl groups, acylation of the 4-(S)-hydroxyl with salicylic acid, C-glycosylation of the C-9 of the D-ring with D-olivose and further acylation of the C4'-hydroxyl of D-olivose with the unusual angelic acid. Understanding the biosynthesis of SF2575 can therefore expand the repertoire of enzymes that can modify tetracyclines, and facilitate engineered biosynthesis of SF2575 analogues. In this study, we identified, sequenced, and functionally analyzed the ssf biosynthetic gene cluster which contains 40 putative open reading frames. Genes encoding enzymes that can assemble the tetracycline aglycon, as well as installing these unique structural features, are found in the gene cluster. Biosynthetic intermediates were isolated from the SF2575 culture extract to suggest the order of pendant-group addition is C-9 glycosylation, C-4 salicylation, and O-4' angelylcylation. Using in vitro assays, two enzymes that are responsible for C-4 acylation of salicylic acid were identified. These enzymes include an ATP-dependent salicylyl-CoA ligase SsfL1 and a putative GDSL family acyltransferase SsfX3, both of which were shown to have relaxed substrate specificity toward substituted benzoic acids. Since the salicylic acid moiety is critically important for the anticancer properties of SF2575, verification of the activities of SsfL1 and SsfX3 sets the stage for biosynthetic modification of the C-4 group toward structure-activity relationship studies of SF2575. Using heterologous biosynthesis in Streptomyces lividans, we also determined that biosynthesis of the SF2575 tetracycline aglycon 8 parallels that of oxytetracycline 4 and diverges after the assembly of 4-keto
Fritz, Julie M.; Lurie, Jon D.; Zhao, Wenyan; Whitman, Julie M.; Delitto, Anthony; Brennan, Gerard P.; Weinstein, James N.
2013-01-01
Background/Context A period of non-surgical management is advocated prior to surgical treatment for most patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. Currently, little evidence is available to define optimal non-surgical management. Physical therapy is often used, however its use and effectiveness relative to other non-surgical strategies has not been adequately explored. Purpose Describe the utilization of physical therapy and other non-surgical interventions by patients with lumbar spinal stenosis and examine the relationship between physical therapy and long-term prognosis. Study Design Secondary analysis of the Spine Patient Outcomes Research Trial (SPORT) combining data from randomized and observational studies. Setting 13 spine clinics in 11 states in the United States. Patient Sample Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis receiving non-surgical management including those who did or did not receive physical therapy within 6 weeks of enrollment. Outcome Measures Primary outcome measures included cross-over to surgery, the bodily pain and physical function scales changes from the Survey Short Form 36 (SF-36), and the modified Oswestry Disability Index. Secondary outcome measures were patient satisfaction and the Sciatica Bothersomeness Index. Methods Baseline characteristics and rates of cross-over to surgery were compared between patients who did or did not receive physical therapy. Baseline factors predictive of receiving physical therapy were examined with logistic regression. Mixed effects models were used to compare outcomes between groups at 3 and 6 months, and 1 year after enrollment adjusted for baseline severity and patient characteristics. Results Physical therapy was used in the first 6 weeks by 90 of 244 patients (37%) and was predicted by the absence of radiating pain and being single instead of married. Physical therapy was associated with a reduced likelihood of cross-over to surgery after 1 year (21% vs 33%, p=0.045), and greater reductions on the SF-36
Two-year outcomes of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.
Poh, Seng Yew; Yue, Wai Mun; Chen, Li-Tat John; Guo, Chang-Ming; Yeo, William; Tan, Seang-Beng
2011-08-01
To evaluate the outcomes, fusion rates, complications, and adjacent segment degeneration associated with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). 32 men and 80 women aged 15 to 85 (mean, 57) years underwent 141 fusions (84 one-level, 27 2-level, and one 3-level) and were followed up for 24 to 76 (mean, 33) months. 92% of the patients had degenerative lumbar disease, 15 of whom had had previous lumbar surgery. Radiographic and clinical outcomes were assessed at 2 years. The short-form 36 (SF-36) health survey, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and the modified North American Spine Society (NASS) Low Back Pain Outcome Instrument were used. Of the 141 levels fused, 110 (78%) were fused with remodelling and trabeculae (grade I), and 31 (22%) had intact grafts but were not fully incorporated (grade II). No patient had pseudoarthroses (grade III or IV). For one-level fusions, poorer radiological fusion grades correlated with higher VAS scores for pain (p<0.01). All components of the SF-36, the VAS scores for pain, and the NASS scores improved significantly after TLIF (p<0.01), except for general health in the SF-36 (p=0.59). Improvement from postoperative 6 months to 2 years was not significant, except for physical function (p<0.01) and role function (physical) [p=0.01] in the SF-36. Two years after TLIF, 50% of the patients reported returning to full function, whereas 72% were satisfied. 26 (23%) of the patients had adjacent segment degeneration, but only 4 of them were symptomatic. TLIF is a safe and effective treatment for degenerative lumbar diseases.
Kim, Hye-Jin; Kwon, Sojung; Nam, Seo Hee; Jung, Jae Woo; Kang, Minkyung; Ryu, Jihye; Kim, Ji Eon; Cheong, Jin-Gyu; Cho, Chang Yun; Kim, Somi; Song, Dae-Geun; Kim, Yong-Nyun; Kim, Tai Young; Jung, Min-Kyo; Lee, Kyung-Min; Pack, Chan-Gi; Lee, Jung Weon
2017-04-01
Membrane proteins sense extracellular cues and transduce intracellular signaling to coordinate directionality and speed during cellular migration. They are often localized to specific regions, as with lipid rafts or tetraspanin-enriched microdomains; however, the dynamic interactions of tetraspanins with diverse receptors within tetraspanin-enriched microdomains on cellular surfaces remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated effects of tetraspan(in) TM4SF5 (transmembrane 4 L6 family member 5)-enriched microdomains (T 5 ERMs) on the directionality of cell migration. Physical association of TM4SF5 with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and integrin α5 was visualized by live fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy and higher-resolution microscopy at the leading edge of migratory cells, presumably forming TM4SF5-enriched microdomains. Whereas TM4SF5 and EGFR colocalized at the migrating leading region more than at the rear, TM4SF5 and integrin α5 colocalized evenly throughout cells. Cholesterol depletion and disruption in TM4SF5 post-translational modifications, including N -glycosylation and palmitoylation, altered TM4SF5 interactions and cellular localization, which led to less cellular migration speed and directionality in 2- or 3-dimensional conditions. TM4SF5 controlled directional cell migration and invasion, and importantly, these TM4SF5 functions were dependent on cholesterol, TM4SF5 post-translational modifications, and EGFR and integrin α5 activity. Altogether, we showed that TM4SF5 dynamically interacted with EGFR and integrin α5 in migratory cells to control directionality and invasion.-Kim, H.-J., Kwon, S., Nam, S. H., Jung, J. W., Kang, M., Ryu, J., Kim, J. E., Cheong, J.-G., Cho, C. Y., Kim, S., Song, D.-G., Kim, Y.-N., Kim, T. Y., Jung, M.-K., Lee, K.-M., Pack, C.-G., Lee, J. W. Dynamic and coordinated single-molecular interactions at TM4SF5-enriched microdomains guide invasive behaviors in 2- and 3-dimensional environments. © FASEB.
Huppertz-Hauss, Gert; Aas, Eline; Lie Høivik, Marte; Langholz, Ebbe; Odes, Selwyn; Småstuen, Milada; Stockbrugger, Reinhold; Hoff, Geir; Moum, Bjørn; Bernklev, Tomm
2016-01-01
Background. The treatment of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is costly, and limited resources call for analyses of the cost effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. The present study evaluated the equivalency of the Short Form 6D (SF-6D) and the Euro QoL (EQ-5D), two preference-based HRQoL instruments that are broadly used in cost-effectiveness analyses, in an unselected IBD patient population. Methods. IBD patients from seven European countries were invited to a follow-up visit ten years after their initial diagnosis. Clinical and demographic data were assessed, and the Short Form 36 (SF-36) was employed. Utility scores were obtained by calculating the SF-6D index values from the SF-36 data for comparison with the scores obtained with the EQ-5D questionnaire. Results. The SF-6D and EQ-5D provided good sensitivities for detecting disease activity-dependent utility differences. However, the single-measure intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.58, and the Bland-Altman plot indicated numerous values beyond the limits of agreement. Conclusions. There was poor agreement between the measures retrieved from the EQ-5D and the SF-6D utility instruments. Although both instruments may provide good sensitivity for the detection of disease activity-dependent utility differences, the instruments cannot be used interchangeably. Cost-utility analyses performed with only one utility instrument must be interpreted with caution.
Tomás, José M; Galiana, Laura; Fernández, Irene
2018-03-22
The aim of current research is to analyze the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the SF-8, overcoming previous shortcomings. A double line of analyses was used: competitive structural equations models to establish factorial validity, and Item Response theory to analyze item psychometric characteristics and information. 593 people aged 60 years or older, attending long life learning programs at the University were surveyed. Their age ranged from 60 to 92 years old. 67.6% were women. The survey included scales on personality dimensions, attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors related to aging. Competitive confirmatory models pointed out two-factors (physical and mental health) as the best representation of the data: χ2(13) = 72.37 (p < .01); CFI = .99; TLI = .98; RMSEA = .08 (.06, .10). Item 5 was removed because of unreliability and cross-loading. Graded response models showed appropriate fit for two-parameter logistic model both the physical and the mental dimensions. Item Information Curves and Test Information Functions pointed out that the SF-8 was more informative for low levels of health. The Spanish SF-8 has adequate psychometric properties, being better represented by two dimensions, once Item 5 is removed. Gathering evidence on patient-reported outcome measures is of crucial importance, as this type of measurement instruments are increasingly used in clinical arena.
Relation of age with symptom severity and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia.
Jiao, Juan; Vincent, Ann; Cha, Stephen S; Luedtke, Connie A; Oh, Terry H
2014-02-01
To examine the relation of age with symptom severity and quality of life (QOL) in patients with fibromyalgia, and to compare physical and mental health of our female patients with those of the US female general population. We studied 978 patients with fibromyalgia from May 1, 2001 through April 30, 2004, and divided them into age groups of young (≤39 years), middle-aged (40-59 years), and older (≥60 years). They completed the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and the Short Form-36 Health Status Questionnaire (SF-36). Standardized SF-36 physical and mental health summary scores were compared with those of the US female general population of similar age. One-way analysis of variance and post hoc paired t test analyses were performed to detect differences across age groups. Pairwise comparison found young and middle-aged patients having worse fibromyalgia symptoms in all subscales except the anxiety subscale compared with older patients (P≤.01). Similarly, these young and middle-aged patients had worse QOL in the SF-36 mental component summary, as well as SF-36 general health perceptions, vitality, social functioning, and mental health index, compared with older patients (all P<.001). When the QOL of our female patients was compared with that of the US female general population of similar age with standardized SF-36 scores, all age groups had lower QOL in physical, as well as mental, health, with more reduction in physical health, particularly in young patients. Our study shows that symptom severity and QOL differ across age groups in patients with fibromyalgia, with young and middle-aged patients having poorer QOL and worse fibromyalgia symptoms than do older patients. QOL in physical health was reduced more than in mental health, particularly in young patients, compared with the general population. Copyright © 2014 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Aydemir, Koray; Tok, Fatih; Peker, Fatma; Safaz, Ismail; Taskaynatan, Mehmet Ali; Ozgul, Ahmet
2010-01-01
This study aimed to determine the effects of balneotherapy on disease activity, functional status, metrology index, pulmonary function and quality of life in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The study included 28 patients (27 male and 1 female) diagnosed with AS according to modified New York criteria. The patients were treated with balneotherapy for 3 weeks (30 min/day, 5 days/week). The patients were evaluated using the global index, Bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index (BASDAI), disease functional index (BASFI), metrology index (BASMI), chest expansion measures, pulmonary function testing, and the medical outcomes study-short form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) (measure of quality of life) before balneotherapy and 1 month after treatment. Post balneotherapy BASDAI and global index decreased, BASMI parameters improved, chest expansion increased, and some SF-36 parameters improved; however, none of these changes were statistically significant (P > 0.05), except for the decrease in BASMI total score (P < 0.05). Before balneotherapy 6 patients had restrictive pulmonary disorder, according to pulmonary function test results. Pulmonary function test results in 3 (50%) patients were normalized following balneotherapy; however, as for the other index, balneotherapy did not significantly affect pulmonary function test results. The AS patients' symptoms, clinical findings, pulmonary function test results, and quality of life showed a trend to improve following balneotherapy, although without reaching significant differences. Comprehensive randomized controlled spa intervention studies with longer follow-up periods may be helpful in further delineating the therapeutic efficacy of balneotherapy in AS patients.
Coleman, Sophie; Briffa, N Kathryn; Carroll, Graeme; Inderjeeth, Charles; Cook, Nicola; McQuade, Jean
2012-01-27
Our aim in the present study was to determine whether a disease-specific self-management program for primary care patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee (the Osteoarthritis of the Knee Self-Management Program (OAK)) implemented by health care professionals would achieve and maintain clinically meaningful improvements in health-related outcomes compared with a control group. Medical practitioners referred 146 primary care patients with OA of the knee. Volunteers with coexistent inflammatory joint disease or serious comorbidities were excluded. Randomisation was to either a control group or the OAK group. The OAK group completed a 6-week self-management program. The control group had a 6-month waiting period before entering the OAK program. Assessments were taken at baseline, 8 weeks and 6 months. The primary outcomes were the results measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) Pain and Function subscales on the Short Form 36 version 1 questionnaire (SF-36) Secondary outcomes were Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain, Timed Up & Go Test (TUG), knee range of motion and quadriceps and hamstring strength-isometric contraction. Responses to treatment (responders) and minimal clinically important improvements (MCIIs) were determined. In the OAK group, VAS pain improved from baseline to week 8 from mean (SEM) 5.21 (0.30) to 3.65 (0.29) (P ≤ 0.001). During this period, improvements in the OAK group compared with the control group and responses to treatment were demonstrated according to the following outcomes: WOMAC Pain, Physical Function and Total dimensions, as well as SF-36 Physical Function, Role Physical, Body Pain, Vitality and Social Functioning domains. In addition, from baseline to week 8, the proportion of MCIIs was greater among the OAK group than the control group for all outcomes. For the period between baseline and month 6, WOMAC Pain, Physical Function and Total dimensions significantly improved in the OAK group
Park, Ki Byung; Shin, Joon-Shik; Lee, Jinho; Lee, Yoon Jae; Kim, Me-Riong; Lee, Jun-Hwan; Shin, Kyung-Min; Shin, Byung-Cheul; Cho, Jae-Heung; Ha, In-Hyuk
2017-04-15
.: Prospective observational 1-year study. .: To determine minimum clinically important difference (MCID) and substantial clinical benefit (SCB) of outcome measures in failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) patients, as these metrics enable assessment of whether and when an intervention produces clinically meaningful effects in a patient. .: Several methods have been devised to quantify clinically important difference, but MCID and SCB for FBSS patients has yet to be determined. .: Patients with persisting/recurrent low back pain (LBP) and/or leg pain after lumbar surgery who completed 16 weeks of treatment (n = 105) at two hospitals in Korea from November 2011 to September 2014 were analyzed. Global perceived effect was used to determine receiver operating characteristic curves in visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and short form-36 (SF-36) in an anchor-based approach. .: MCIDs for ODI, LBP and leg pain VAS, physical component summary, mental health component summary (MCS), and overall health scores of SF-36 were 9.0, 22.5, 27.5, 10.2, 4.0, and 8.9, and SCBs were 15.0, 32.5, 37.0, 19.7, 19.3, and 21.1, respectively. MCID and SCB area under the curve was ≥0.8, and ≥0.7, respectively. .: LBP and leg pain VAS, ODI, and physical component summary of SF-36 may be used to measure responsiveness in FBSS patients. 3.
Harris, Jocelyn E; MacDermid, Joy C; Roth, James
2005-01-01
Background Distal radius fractures are common injuries that have an increasing impact on health across the lifespan. The purpose of this study was to identify health impacts in body structure/function, activity, and participation at baseline and follow-up, to determine whether they support the ICF model of health. Methods This is a prospective cohort study of 790 individuals who were assessed at 1 week, 3 months, and 1 year post injury. The Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), The Wrist Outcome Measure (WOM), and the Medical Outcome Survey Short-Form (SF-36) were used to measure impairment, activity, participation, and health. Multiple regression was used to develop explanatory models of health outcome. Results Regression analysis showed that the PRWE explained between 13% (one week) and 33% (three months) of the SF-36 Physical Component Summary Scores with pain, activities and participation subscales showing dominant effects at different stages of recovery. PRWE scores were less related to Mental Component Summary Scores, 10% (three months) and 8% (one year). Wrist impairment scores were less powerful predictors of health status than the PRWE. Conclusion The ICF is an informative model for examining distal radius fracture. Difficulty in the domains of activity and participation were able to explain a significant portion of physical health. Post-fracture rehabilitation and outcome assessments should extend beyond physical impairment to insure comprehensive treatment to individuals with distal radius fracture. PMID:16288664
Vitorino, Luciano Magalhães; Soares, Renata de Castro E Santos; Santos, Ana Eliza Oliveira; Lucchetti, Alessandra Lamas Granero; Cruz, Jonas Preposi; Cortez, Paulo José Oliveira; Lucchetti, Giancarlo
2017-08-01
Studies have shown that spiritual/religious beliefs are associated with mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, few studies evaluated how spiritual/religious coping (SRC) could affect hemodialysis patients. The present study investigated the role of SRC behaviors on HRQoL and depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients. This was cross-sectional study with 184 patients. Patients completed the Beck Depression Inventory, Brief SRC Scale, Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), and a Sociodemographic and Health Characterization Questionnaire. From 218 patients, 184 (84.4%) were included (53.8% male with a median age of 55.9 years). Negative SRC, but not positive SRC, was associated with depressive symptoms. Positive SRC presented significant effects in SF-36 pain and physical and social functioning. On the other hand, negative SRC exhibited significant effects in SF-36 role emotional, energy/fatigue, pain, and physical functioning. SRC influences the mental health and HRQoL in Brazilian hemodialysis patients in two distinct ways. If used positively, it may have positive outcomes. However, if used negatively, it may lead to dysfunctional consequences such as greater depressive symptomatology and affect HRQoL. Health professionals must be aware of these "two sides of the same coin."
Cheawthamai, Kornkamon; Vongsirinavarat, Mantana; Hiengkaew, Vimonwan; Saengrueangrob, Sasithorn
2014-07-01
The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the treatment programs of home-based exercise with and without self-manual therapy in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (knee OA) in community. Forty-three participants with knee OA were randomly assigned in groups. All participants received the same home-based exercise program with or without self-manual therapy over 12 weeks. Outcome measures were pain intensity, range of motions, six-minute walk test distance, the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS), short-form 36 (SF-36) and satisfaction. The results showed that the self-manual therapy program significantly decreased pain at 4 weeks, increased flexion and extension at 4 and 12 weeks, and improved the KOOS in pain item and SF-36 in physical function and mental health items. The home-based exercise group showed significant increase of the six-minute walk distance at 4 and 12 weeks, improvements in the KOOS in pain and symptom items and SF-36 in the physical function and role-emotional items. Overall, the results favored a combination of self-manual therapy and home-based exercise for patients with knee OA, which apparently showed superior benefits in decreasing pain and improving active knee range of motions.
Klasnja, A; Grujic, N; Popadic Gacesa, J; Barak, O; Tomic, S; Brkic, S
2014-04-01
The purpose of the present study was twofold: 1) to determine to what extent graded exercise therapy (GET) improves health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and anxiety levels in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS); and 2) to correlate scores of HRQOL and anxiety levels in CFS patients. Anxiety and HRQOL were assessed in 26 CFS patients before and after 12 weeks of GET. Anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaire (STAI) and HRQOL using the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form questionnaire (SF-36). GET significantly decreased trait anxiety (STAI-T) levels in patients with CFS. Patients' scores on SF-36 following GET showed higher levels of functioning, but only the "vitality" subscale scores showed a statistically significant difference. A negative correlation was present between all eight subscales of SF-36 and anxiety levels. The strongest negative correlation for both state and trait anxiety scores (STAI-S and STAI-T) was found with the scores on the "Limitations due to emotional problems" subscale of SF-36 (r=-0.69 and r=-0.55, respectively), while the weakest negative correlation was with the "Physical functioning" subscale scores (r=-0.30 and r=-0.31, respectively). Graded exercise therapy has a positive effect on both physical and psychological state of CFS patients. GET can decrease anxiety and improve quality of life of CFS patients. CFS patients with higher state and trait anxiety levels have lower quality of life, and vice versa.
Malikova, Jana; Camats, Núria; Fernández-Cancio, Mónica; Heath, Karen; González, Isabel; Caimarí, María; del Campo, Miguel; Albisu, Marian; Kolouskova, Stanislava; Audí, Laura; Flück, Christa E.
2014-01-01
Context Human NR5A1/SF-1 mutations cause 46,XY disorder of sex development (DSD) with broad phenotypic variability, and rarely cause adrenal insufficiency although SF-1 is an important transcription factor for many genes involved in steroidogenesis. In addition, the Sf-1 knockout mouse develops obesity with age. Obesity might be mediated through Sf-1 regulating activity of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), an important regulator of energy balance in the ventromedial hypothalamus. Objective To characterize novel SF-1 gene variants in 4 families, clinical, genetic and functional studies were performed with respect to steroidogenesis and energy balance. Patients 5 patients with 46,XY DSD were found to harbor NR5A1/SF-1 mutations including 2 novel variations. One patient harboring a novel mutation also suffered from adrenal insufficiency. Methods SF-1 mutations were studied in cell systems (HEK293, JEG3) for impact on transcription of genes involved in steroidogenesis (CYP11A1, CYP17A1, HSD3B2) and in energy balance (BDNF). BDNF regulation by SF-1 was studied by promoter assays (JEG3). Results Two novel NR5A1/SF-1 mutations (Glu7Stop, His408Profs*159) were confirmed. Glu7Stop is the 4th reported SF-1 mutation causing DSD and adrenal insufficiency. In vitro studies revealed that transcription of the BDNF gene is regulated by SF-1, and that mutant SF-1 decreased BDNF promoter activation (similar to steroid enzyme promoters). However, clinical data from 16 subjects carrying SF-1 mutations showed normal birth weight and BMI. Conclusions Glu7Stop and His408Profs*159 are novel SF-1 mutations identified in patients with 46,XY DSD and adrenal insufficiency (Glu7Stop). In vitro, SF-1 mutations affect not only steroidogenesis but also transcription of BDNF which is involved in energy balance. However, in contrast to mice, consequences on weight were not found in humans with SF-1 mutations. PMID:25122490
Malikova, Jana; Camats, Núria; Fernández-Cancio, Mónica; Heath, Karen; González, Isabel; Caimarí, María; del Campo, Miguel; Albisu, Marian; Kolouskova, Stanislava; Audí, Laura; Flück, Christa E
2014-01-01
Human NR5A1/SF-1 mutations cause 46,XY disorder of sex development (DSD) with broad phenotypic variability, and rarely cause adrenal insufficiency although SF-1 is an important transcription factor for many genes involved in steroidogenesis. In addition, the Sf-1 knockout mouse develops obesity with age. Obesity might be mediated through Sf-1 regulating activity of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), an important regulator of energy balance in the ventromedial hypothalamus. To characterize novel SF-1 gene variants in 4 families, clinical, genetic and functional studies were performed with respect to steroidogenesis and energy balance. 5 patients with 46,XY DSD were found to harbor NR5A1/SF-1 mutations including 2 novel variations. One patient harboring a novel mutation also suffered from adrenal insufficiency. SF-1 mutations were studied in cell systems (HEK293, JEG3) for impact on transcription of genes involved in steroidogenesis (CYP11A1, CYP17A1, HSD3B2) and in energy balance (BDNF). BDNF regulation by SF-1 was studied by promoter assays (JEG3). Two novel NR5A1/SF-1 mutations (Glu7Stop, His408Profs*159) were confirmed. Glu7Stop is the 4th reported SF-1 mutation causing DSD and adrenal insufficiency. In vitro studies revealed that transcription of the BDNF gene is regulated by SF-1, and that mutant SF-1 decreased BDNF promoter activation (similar to steroid enzyme promoters). However, clinical data from 16 subjects carrying SF-1 mutations showed normal birth weight and BMI. Glu7Stop and His408Profs*159 are novel SF-1 mutations identified in patients with 46,XY DSD and adrenal insufficiency (Glu7Stop). In vitro, SF-1 mutations affect not only steroidogenesis but also transcription of BDNF which is involved in energy balance. However, in contrast to mice, consequences on weight were not found in humans with SF-1 mutations.
Otero, Jesse E; Graves, Christopher M; Gao, Yubo; Olson, Tyler S; Dickinson, Christopher C; Chalus, Rhonda J; Vittetoe, David A; Goetz, Devon D; Callaghan, John J
2016-12-01
Retrospective analyses have demonstrated correlation between patient-reported allergies and negative outcomes after total joint arthroplasty. We sought to validate these observations in a prospective cohort. One hundred forty-four patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty and 302 patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty were prospectively enrolled. Preoperatively, patients listed their allergies and completed the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) Questionnaire. At a mean of 17 months (range 12-25 months) postoperatively, SF-36, CCI, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) were obtained by telephone survey. Regression analysis was used to determine the strength of correlation between patient age, comorbidity burden, and number of allergies and outcome measurements. In 446 patients, 273 reported at least 1 allergy. The number of allergies reported ranged from 0 to 33. Penicillin or its derivative was the most frequently reported allergy followed by sulfa, environmental allergen, and narcotic pain medication. Patients reporting at least 1 allergy had a significantly lower postoperative SF-36 Physical Component Score compared to those reporting no allergies (51.3 vs 49.4, P = .01). The SF-36 postoperative Mental Component Score was no different between groups. Multivariate regression analysis showed that age and patient reported allergies, but not comorbidities, were independently associated with worse postoperative SF-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS) and WOMAC score. Patients with allergies experienced the same improvement in SF-36 PCS as those without an allergy. Comorbidities did not correlate with patient-reported function postoperatively. Patients who report allergies have lower postoperative outcome scores but may experience the same increment in improvement after total joint arthroplasty. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
2013-01-01
Background The purpose of the present study was to compare dynamic muscle strength, functional performance, fatigue, and quality of life in premenopausal systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with low disease activity versus matched-healthy controls and to determine the association of dynamic muscle strength with fatigue, functional performance, and quality of life in SLE patients. Methods We evaluated premenopausal (18–45 years) SLE patients with low disease activity (Systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index [SLEDAI]: mean 1.5 ± 1.2). The control (n = 25) and patient (n = 25) groups were matched by age, physical characteristics, and the level of physical activities in daily life (International Physical Activity Questionnaire IPAQ). Both groups had not participated in regular exercise programs for at least six months prior to the study. Dynamic muscle strength was assessed by one-repetition maximum (1-RM) tests. Functional performance was assessed by the Timed Up and Go (TUG), in 30-s test a chair stand and arm curl using a 2-kg dumbbell and balance test, handgrip strength and a sit-and-reach flexibility test. Quality of life (SF-36) and fatigue were also measured. Results The SLE patients showed significantly lower dynamic muscle strength in all exercises (leg press 25.63%, leg extension 11.19%, leg curl 15.71%, chest press 18.33%, lat pulldown 13.56%, 1-RM total load 18.12%, P < 0.001-0.02) compared to the controls. The SLE patients also had lower functional performance, greater fatigue and poorer quality of life. In addition, fatigue, SF-36 and functional performance accounted for 52% of the variance in dynamic muscle strength in the SLE patients. Conclusions Premenopausal SLE patients with low disease activity showed lower dynamic muscle strength, along with increased fatigue, reduced functional performance, and poorer quality of life when compared to matched controls. PMID:24011222
Determining the Minimal Clinically Important Difference for Six-Minute Walk Distance in Fibromyalgia
Kaleth, Anthony S.; Slaven, James E.; Ang, Dennis C.
2016-01-01
Objective To estimate the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). Design Data from a recently completed trial that included 187 patients who completed the 6-minute walk test, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), and Short-Form 36 (SF36) at 12 and 36 weeks were used to examine longitudinal changes in 6MWD. An anchor-based approach that used linear regression analyses was used to determine the MCID for 6MWD, using the total FIQ score (FIQ-Total) and SF36-physical function domain (SF36-PF) as clinical anchors. Results The mean (SD) change in 6MWD from baseline to week 36 was 34.4 (65.2) m (p<0.001). The anchor-based MCID’s for the 6MWD were 156 m and 167 m for the FIQ and SF36-PF, respectively. These MCID’s correspond with clinically meaningful improvements in FIQ (14% reduction) and SF36-PF (10 point increase). Conclusion The MCID for 6MWD in patients with FM was 156 to 167 m. These findings provide the first evidence of the change in 6MWD that is perceived by patients to be clinically meaningful. Further research using other MCID calculation methods is needed to refine estimates of the MCID for 6MWD in patients with FM. PMID:27003201
The MAT-sf: identifying risk for major mobility disability.
Rejeski, W Jack; Rushing, Julia; Guralnik, Jack M; Ip, Edward H; King, Abby C; Manini, Todd M; Marsh, Anthony P; McDermott, Mary M; Fielding, Roger A; Newman, Anne B; Tudor-Locke, Catrine; Gill, Thomas M
2015-05-01
The assessment of mobility is essential to both aging research and clinical geriatric practice. A newly developed self-report measure of mobility, the mobility assessment tool-short form (MAT-sf), uses video animations as an innovative method to improve measurement accuracy/precision. The primary aim of the current study was to evaluate whether MAT-sf scores can be used to identify risk for major mobility disability (MMD). This article is based on data collected from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders study and involved 1,574 older adults between the ages of 70-89. The MAT-sf was administered at baseline; MMD, operationalized as failure to complete the 400-m walk ≤ 15 minutes, was evaluated at 6-month intervals across a period of 42 months. The outcome of interest was the first occurrence of MMD or incident MMD. After controlling for age, sex, clinic site, and treatment arm, baseline MAT-sf scores were found to be effective in identifying risk for MMD (p < .0001). Partitioning the MAT-sf into four groups revealed that persons with scores <40, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+ had failure rates across 42 months of follow-up of 66%, 52%, 35%, and 22%, respectively. The MAT-sf is a quick and efficient way of identifying older adults at risk for MMD. It could be used to clinically identify older adults that are in need of intervention for MMD and provides a simple means for monitoring the status of patients' mobility, an important dimension of functional health. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Egorov, V N; Razumnikova, O M; Perfil'ev, A M; Stupak, V V
2015-01-01
To compare parameters of attention in healthy people and patients with neoplasms in different regions of the cerebral cortex and to evaluate quality of life (QoL) indices with regard to impairment of different attention systems. Twenty patients with oncological lesions of the brain (mean age 56.5±8.8 years) who did not undergo surgery were studied. Tumor localization was confirmed using contrast-enhanced computed tomography, the tumor type was histologically verified. A control group included 18 healthy people matched for age, sex and education level. To determine attention system functions, we developed a computed version of the Attention Network Test. Error rate and reaction time for correct responses to the target stimulus, displayed along with neutral, congruent and incongruent signals, were the indicators of the efficacy of selective processes. QoL indices were assessed using SF-36 health survey questionnaire. The readiness to respond to incoming stimuli was mostly impaired in patients with brain tumors. Efficacy of executive attention, assessed as the increase in the number of errors in selection of visual stimuli, was decreased while temporary parameters of the functions of this system were not changed in patients compared to controls. The SF-36 total score was stable in patients with marked reduction in scores on the Role and Emotional Functioning scales. The most severe health impairment measured on the SF-36 scales of role/social emotional functioning and viability was recorded in patients with the lesions of frontal cortical areas compared to temporal/parietal areas. The relationship between SF-36 Health self-rating and attention systems was found. This finding puts the question of the importance of attention characteristics and QoL for survival prognosis of patients with brain tumors.
Yildirim, Yücel; Ergin, Gülbin
2013-01-01
Fatigue is primarily a subjective experience and self-report is the most common approach used to measure fatigue. Numerous self-report instruments have been developed to measure fatigue. Unfortunately, each of these measures was tailored for the situation in which fatigue was studied. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of the Turkish language version of the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue Scale (MAF-T) in chronic musculoskeletal physical therapy patients. The MAF-T was supplied by the MAPI Research Institute, and 69 chronic musculoskeletal physical therapy patients were evaluated. To validate MAF-T, all participants completed the MAF-T and Short Form-36 (SF-36). The MAF was administered again one week later to assess test-retest reliability. Using Cronbach α, the internal consistency reliability of the MAF-T was 0.90, the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) reliability was 0.96. Item-discriminant validity was calculated between r=0.14 and r=0.82. The correlations between the total scores of the MAF-T scale and the subscale scores of SF-36 were negative and significant (p< 0.01). The MAF-T is a valid and reliable scale for assessing fatigue in chronic musculoskeletal physical therapy patients.
An application of the SF-6D to create heath values in Portuguese working age adults.
Ferreira, Lara Noronha; Ferreira, Pedro Lopes; Pereira, Luís Nobre; Brazier, John
2008-01-01
This study describes the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of the Portuguese working age population and investigates sociodemographic differences. Subjects randomly selected from the working age population (n=2,459) were assessed using the SF-36v2 and converted into the preference-based SF-6D. The mean SF-6D utility value was 0.70 (range 0.63-0.73). The mean utility value was lower for the lower educational level than for the highest. Women, people living in rural areas and older adults reported lower levels of utility values. Non-parametric tests showed that health utility values were significantly related to employment; unskilled manual workers reported utility values lower than non-manual workers. For different diseases, mean utility values ranged from 0.58 (sexual diseases) to 0.66 (hepatic conditions). Cluster analysis was adopted to classify individuals into three groups according to their answers to the SF-6D dimensions. Multinomial logit regression was used to detect sociodemographic characteristics affecting the probability of following each cluster pattern. This study yielded normative data by age and gender for the SF-6D. The authors conclude that SF-6D is an effective tool for measuring HRQOL in the community so that different population groups can be compared. The preference-based measure used seems to discriminate adequately across sociodemographic differences. These results allow a better understanding of the impact of sociodemographic variables on the burden of illness perception.
Social Frailty and Functional Disability: Findings From the Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Studies.
Teo, Nigel; Gao, Qi; Nyunt, Ma Shwe Zin; Wee, Shiou Liang; Ng, Tze-Pin
2017-07-01
To examine the association between the social frailty (SF) phenotype and functional disability, independently of the physical frailty (PF) phenotype, and compare the abilities of the PF, SF, and combined social and physical (PSF) indexes for predicting functional disability. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses of a population-based cohort (Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study, SLAS-1) of 2406 community-dwelling older adults with 3 years of follow-up (N = 1254 and N = 1557 for instrumental activity of daily living (IADL) disability and severe disability (≥3 basic ADL) respectively). Seven-item social frailty index (living arrangements, education, socioeconomic status, and social network and support, 0 = nil SF, 1 = low, 2-7 = high), PF phenotype (Fried criteria), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) disability and severe disability (≥3 basic ADLs). Compared to nil SF, low and high SF were significantly associated with 1.3 to 2.4 fold increased prevalence and incidence of IADL disability, and 6.3 fold increase in severe disability. Frail individuals with and without SF stood out with 5-11 fold increased prevalence and incidence of IADL disability and 21-25 fold increased prevalence and incidence of severe disability, compared to robust individuals without SF. A combined PSF index more accurately identified individuals with increased risk of functional disability (ROC = 64%) and severe disability (ROC = 81%) than either the SF or the PF indexes alone (55% to 68%). The SF index alone or in combination with the PF index has clinical relevance and utility for identifying and stratifying older people at risk of disability. The mental frailty construct is closely related to SF and should be further investigated in future studies. Copyright © 2017 AMDA – The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Functional outcomes after operatively treated patella fractures.
LeBrun, Christopher T; Langford, Joshua R; Sagi, H Claude
2012-07-01
To evaluate the midterm functional outcomes of patients with isolated operatively treated patella fractures. Prospective cohort and retrospective clinical and radiographic assessment. A Level I and Level II trauma center. Two hundred forty-one patients underwent operative intervention for a displaced patella fracture between 1991 and 2007. After appropriate exclusions, 110 patients met criteria. A total of 40 (36%) patients with isolated, unilateral, operatively treated patella fractures with minimum 1-year follow-up agreed to participate in this study and return for functional testing. Mean follow-up was 6.5 years (range, 1.25-17 years). Enrolled patients were treated with one of the following methods: standard tension band with Kirschner wires, tension band through 2 cannulated screws, longitudinal anterior banding with cerclage, or partial patellectomy. All enrolled patients were evaluated with the SF-36 and an injury-specific questionnaire (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores) and asked to self-report symptomatic hardware. Patients were also evaluated by physical examination assessing range of motion and Biodex bilateral quadriceps isometric and isokinetic comparisons. The mean normalized SF-36 physical composite score and the mean normalized Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores subscale scores (pain, 71.7; symptoms, 66.3; activities of daily living, 75.1; sport/recreation, 45.2; quality of life, 49.6) were statistically different (P < 0.05) from reference population norms. Removal of symptomatic fixation was required in 52% of the patients treated with osteosynthesis, whereas 38% of those with retained fixation self-reported implant-related pain at least some of the time. Eight patients (20%) had an extensor lag greater than 5°. A restricted range of flexion of greater than 5° was noted in 15 patients (38%) and restricted range of extension of greater than 5° was noted in 6 patients (15%). Biodex dynamometric testing revealed a mean
Corner, E J; Wood, H; Englebretsen, C; Thomas, A; Grant, R L; Nikoletou, D; Soni, N
2013-03-01
To develop a scoring system to measure physical morbidity in critical care - the Chelsea Critical Care Physical Assessment Tool (CPAx). The development process was iterative involving content validity indices (CVI), a focus group and an observational study of 33 patients to test construct validity against the Medical Research Council score for muscle strength, peak cough flow, Australian Therapy Outcome Measures score, Glasgow Coma Scale score, Bloomsbury sedation score, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, Short Form 36 (SF-36) score, days of mechanical ventilation and inter-rater reliability. Trauma and general critical care patients from two London teaching hospitals. Users of the CPAx felt that it possessed content validity, giving a final CVI of 1.00 (P<0.05). Construct validation data showed moderate to strong significant correlations between the CPAx score and all secondary measures, apart from the mental component of the SF-36 which demonstrated weak correlation with the CPAx score (r=0.024, P=0.720). Reliability testing showed internal consistency of α=0.798 and inter-rater reliability of κ=0.988 (95% confidence interval 0.791 to 1.000) between five raters. This pilot work supports proof of concept of the CPAx as a measure of physical morbidity in the critical care population, and is a cogent argument for further investigation of the scoring system. Copyright © 2012 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Gill, Diane L.; Reifsteck, Erin J.; Adams, Melanie M.; Shang, Ya-Ting
2015-01-01
Despite the clear relationship between physical activity and quality of life, few sound, relevant quality of life measures exist. Gill and colleagues developed a 32-item quality of life survey, and provided initial psychometric evidence. This study further examined that quality of life survey in comparison with the widely used short form (SF-36)…
Work instability and financial loss in early inflammatory arthritis.
Looper, Karl J; Mustafa, Sally S; Zelkowitz, Phyllis; Purden, Margaret; Baron, Murray
2012-12-01
Inflammatory arthritis is associated with a high degree of work instability and financial burden. In this study, we examine the extent of work instability and financial loss as well as their association with disease characteristics during the first 18 months of inflammatory arthritis. One hundred and four patients in the early phase (more than 6 weeks, < 18 months) of inflammatory arthritis were recruited from a larger early inflammatory arthritis registry. Questionnaires recorded sociodemographic data and disease characteristics, including pain assessed using the Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and physical functioning measured with the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) physical functioning score. The Rheumatoid Arthritis Work Instability Scale (RA-WIS) was used to measure patient-perceived functioning in the workplace and the Financial Loss Questionnaire (FLQ) measured the impact on family finances. Participants' mean age was 56 years, 70.2% were female and 49.0% were working. Average yearly household income was < 60 000 Canadian dollars (CAD) for 38.5% of the sample. Of our working patients, 43% had a medium or high risk of work loss as measured by the RA-WIS and 35% reported a financial loss. On multivariate analysis, MPQ and SF-36 contributed to the dependent variable work instability, while age and SF-36 contributed to financial loss. This study identifies pain and physical dysfunction as potential modifiable risk factors for negative socioeconomic repercussions of illness in early inflammatory arthritis. © 2012 The Authors International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases © 2012 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.
Aas, Eline; Odes, Selwyn; Småstuen, Milada; Stockbrugger, Reinhold; Hoff, Geir; Moum, Bjørn; Bernklev, Tomm
2016-01-01
Background. The treatment of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is costly, and limited resources call for analyses of the cost effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. The present study evaluated the equivalency of the Short Form 6D (SF-6D) and the Euro QoL (EQ-5D), two preference-based HRQoL instruments that are broadly used in cost-effectiveness analyses, in an unselected IBD patient population. Methods. IBD patients from seven European countries were invited to a follow-up visit ten years after their initial diagnosis. Clinical and demographic data were assessed, and the Short Form 36 (SF-36) was employed. Utility scores were obtained by calculating the SF-6D index values from the SF-36 data for comparison with the scores obtained with the EQ-5D questionnaire. Results. The SF-6D and EQ-5D provided good sensitivities for detecting disease activity-dependent utility differences. However, the single-measure intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.58, and the Bland-Altman plot indicated numerous values beyond the limits of agreement. Conclusions. There was poor agreement between the measures retrieved from the EQ-5D and the SF-6D utility instruments. Although both instruments may provide good sensitivity for the detection of disease activity-dependent utility differences, the instruments cannot be used interchangeably. Cost-utility analyses performed with only one utility instrument must be interpreted with caution. PMID:27630711
Burker, Eileen J; Madan, Alok; Evon, Donna; Finkel, Jerry B; Mill, Michael R
2009-01-01
To determine whether demographic factors and coping strategies are related to quality of life in heart transplant candidates. Participants were 50 inpatients being evaluated for heart transplant. Coping was measured using the COPE Inventory (1) (J Pers Soc Psychol, 56, 1989, 267). Quality of life was assessed using the SF-36 (2) (Health Survey: Manual and Interpretation Guide, Quality Metric Inc, Lincoln, RI, 2000). Higher education and less seeking of social support were independently associated with better physical functioning. Higher use of denial was associated with poorer mental health functioning. In patients with significant physical limitations, years of education appears to be protective. Less seeking of social support was associated with better physical functioning perhaps because individuals who feel better physically do not feel the need to elicit support. Alternatively, the tendency to not seek assistance could stem from personality characteristics such as avoidance or optimism. Denial was associated with worse mental health functioning. Denying the existence of a stressor may be a high risk coping strategy for patients who are pre-transplant and even more dangerous for those who are post-transplant given the need to be alert to symptoms. Proactive identification of patients at risk for poorer quality of life will allow for more timely psychosocial interventions, which could impact post-transplant outcomes.
Abdin, Edimansyah; Subramaniam, Mythily; Picco, Louisa; Pang, Shirlene; Vaingankar, Janhavi Ajit; Shahwan, Shazana; Sagayadevan, Vathsala; Zhang, Yunjue; Chong, Siow Ann
2017-04-01
The present study aims to examine the impact of chronic conditions after adjusting for differential item functioning (DIF) on the various aspects of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a multi-ethnic Asian population in Singapore. Data on 3006 participants from a nation-wide cross-sectional survey of mental health literacy conducted in Singapore were used. Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes model was used to investigate the effects of chronic medical conditions on various HRQoL dimensions assessed with the 36-item Medical Outcomes Study Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) after adjusting for DIF. Twenty out of 36 items were detected with DIF for chronic conditions including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, cancer, neurological disorders and ulcer as well as for a few demographic factors such age, gender and marital status. Twenty significant associations between chronic conditions and SF-36 domains were observed. After controlling for all chronic conditions, socio-demographic and DIF items, a significant association emerged between cardiovascular disorders and physical functioning, while the association between diabetes and ulcer and general health became nonsignificant. All other associations remained statistically significant. Our findings provide useful information and important implications of DIF on the impact of chronic conditions on HRQoL. We found the impact of DIF with respect to the impact of chronic conditions on HRQoL to be minimal after accounting for measurement bias in this multiracial Asian population.
Validation and reliability of the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly in Chinese population.
Ngai, Shirley P C; Cheung, Roy T H; Lam, Priscillia L; Chiu, Joseph K W; Fung, Eric Y H
2012-05-01
Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) is a widely used questionnaire in epidemiological studies for assessing the physical activity level of elderly. This study aims to translate and validate PASE in Chinese population. Cross-sectional study. Chinese elderly aged 65 or above. The original English version of PASE was translated into Chinese (PASE-C) following standardized translation procedures. Ninety Chinese elderly aged 65 or above were recruited in the community. Test-retest reliability was determined by comparing the scores obtained from two separate administrations by the intraclass correlation coefficient. Validity was evaluated by Spearman's rank correlation coefficients between PASE and Medical Outcome Survey 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), grip strength, single-leg-stance, 5 times sit-to-stand and 10-m walk. PASE-C demonstrated good test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.81). Fair to moderate association were found between PASE-C and most of the subscales of SF-36 (rs = 0.285 to 0.578, p < 0.01), grip strength (rs = 0.405 to 0.426, p < 0.001), single-leg-stance (rs = 0.470 to 0.548, p < 0.001), 5 times sit-to-stand (rs = -0.33, p = 0.001) and 10-m walk (rs = -0.281, p = 0.007). PASE-C is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing the physical activity level of elderly in Chinese population.
Functional outcomes and life satisfaction in long-term survivors of pediatric sarcomas.
Gerber, Lynn H; Hoffman, Karen; Chaudhry, Usha; Augustine, Elizabeth; Parks, Rebecca; Bernad, Martha; Mackall, Crystal; Steinberg, Seth; Mansky, Patrick
2006-12-01
To describe the inter-relationships among impairments, performance, and disabilities in survivors of pediatric sarcoma and to identify measurements that profile survivors at risk for functional loss. Prospective, cross-sectional. Research facility. Thirty-two participants in National Cancer Institute clinical trials. Not applicable. Range of motion (ROM), strength, limb volume, grip strength, walk velocity, Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS); Human Activity Profile (HAP), Sickness Impact Profile (SIP), standard form of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36); and vocational attitudes and leisure satisfaction. Twenty of 30 survivors tested had moderate or severe loss of ROM; 13 of 31 tested had 90% or less of predicted walk velocity; all of whom had trunk or lower-extremity lesions. Women with decreased ROM (r=.50, P=.06) or strength (r=.74, P=.002) had slow gait velocity. Sixteen of 31 tested were more than 1 standard deviation below normal grip strength. Eighteen had increased limb volume. These 18 had low physical competence (SF-36) (r=-.70, P=.001) and high SIP scores (r=.73, P=.005). AMPS scores were lower than those of the matched normed sample (P<.001). HAP identified 15 of 30 who had moderately or severely reduced activity. Leisure satisfaction was higher in the subjects (P<.001). Eight reported cancer had negatively impacted work and 17 reported that it negatively impacted vocational plans. Survivors with lower-extremity or truncal lesions and women with decreased ROM and strength likely have slow walk velocity, low exercise tolerance, and high risk for functional loss. They should be identified using ROM, strength, limb volume, and walk time measures.
Complete study demonstrating the absence of rhabdovirus in a distinct Sf9 cell line.
Hashimoto, Yoshifumi; Macri, Daniel; Srivastava, Indresh; McPherson, Clifton; Felberbaum, Rachael; Post, Penny; Cox, Manon
2017-01-01
A putative novel rhabdovirus (SfRV) was previously identified in a Spodoptera frugiperda cell line (Sf9 cells [ATCC CRL-1711 lot 58078522]) by next generation sequencing and extensive bioinformatic analysis. We performed an extensive analysis of our Sf9 cell bank (ATCC CRL-1711 lot 5814 [Sf9L5814]) to determine whether this virus was already present in cells obtained from ATCC in 1987. Inverse PCR of DNA isolated from Sf9 L5814 cellular DNA revealed integration of SfRV sequences in the cellular genome. RT-PCR of total RNA showed a deletion of 320 nucleotides in the SfRV RNA that includes the transcriptional motifs for genes X and L. Concentrated cell culture supernatant was analyzed by sucrose density gradient centrifugation and revealed a single band at a density of 1.14 g/ml. This fraction was further analysed by electron microscopy and showed amorphous and particulate debris that did not resemble a rhabdovirus in morphology or size. SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed that the protein composition did not contain the typical five rhabdovirus structural proteins and LC-MS/MS analysis revealed primarily of exosomal marker proteins, the SfRV N protein, and truncated forms of SfRV N, P, and G proteins. The SfRV L gene fragment RNA sequence was recovered from the supernatant after ultracentrifugation of the 1.14 g/ml fraction treated with diethyl ether suggesting that the SfRV L gene fragment sequence is not associated with a diethyl ether resistant nucleocapsid. Interestingly, the 1.14 g/ml fraction was able to transfer baculovirus DNA into Sf9L5814 cells, consistent with the presence of functional exosomes. Our results demonstrate the absence of viral particles in ATCC CRL-1711 lot 5814 Sf9 cells in contrast to a previous study that suggested the presence of infectious rhabdoviral particles in Sf9 cells from a different lot. This study highlights how cell lines with different lineages may present different virosomes and therefore no general conclusions can be drawn across
Terreehorst, I; Duivenvoorden, H J; Tempels-Pavlica, Z; Oosting, A J; de Monchy, J G R; Bruijnzeel-Koomen, C A F M; Post, M W M; Gerth van Wijk, R
2002-10-01
Allergic rhinitis, asthma or the atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome (AEDS) may independently impair quality of life in patients. However, although many allergic patients may suffer from more than one disorder, the effect of concomitant disease -- in particular, the impact of AEDS -- is largely unknown. As part of a large multicenter clinical trial on the efficacy of mattress casings in house-dust mite (HDM) allergy, generic quality of life in a mixed population of 224 subjects with rhinitis (n = 198) and/or asthma (n = 111) and/or AEDS (n = 64) was studied. The study aimed to estimate quality of life impairment in these atopic patients and to address the question/issue of whether one atopic disorder goes beyond other existing allergic diseases, thereby causing further impairment to quality of life. Generic quality of life was assessed by SF-36. Quality of life in the atopic group was compared with a Dutch norm population. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the effects of disease (i.e. the presence of allergic rhinitis, asthma or AEDS) or disease severity, as assessed by visual analog scores (VAS) for asthma, rhinitis, VAS sleeplessness and VAS itching being considered as major symptoms in AEDS on SF-36 domains. Compared to the norm group, atopic patients were impaired in: physical functioning; role physical functioning; general health; vitality; and social functioning. The diagnosis of asthma was negatively associated with the SF-36 subscales for physical functioning (P = 0.02), and general health (P < 0.01). In line with these findings, asthma severity (VAS asthma) was negatively associated with physical functioning (P < 0.01), role physical functioning (P < 0.01), general health (P < 0.0.1), social functioning (P = 0.01), emotional functioning (P = 0.01), and vitality (P = 0.01). VAS sleeplessness had significant negative effect on role physical functioning (P < 0.01), bodily pain (P < 0.01), General health (P = 0.01), mental health (P < 0
Wu, Eline; Mårtensson, Jan; Broström, Anders
2013-10-01
Refractory angina pectoris (AP) is a persistent, painful condition characterized by angina caused by coronary insufficiency in the presence of coronary artery disease. It has been emphasized that there are possible underlying neuropathophysiological mechanisms for refractory AP but chronic ischemia is still considered to be the main problem. These patients suffer from severe AP and cannot be controlled by a combination of pharmacological therapies, angioplasty or coronary bypass surgery. AP has a negative impact on quality of life and daily life. Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) is a therapeutic option for these patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate EECP after six months regarding physical capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with refractory AP. This was a study with single case research experimental design involving 34 patients treated with EECP. Six minute walk test (6MWT), functional class with Canadian Cardiological Society (CCS) classification and self-reported HRQoL questionnaires as Short Form 36 (SF-36) were collected at baseline and after treatment. CCS class and SF-36 were repeated at six months follow-up. Patients enhanced walk distance on average by 29 m after EECP (p<0.01). CCS class also improved (p<0.001) and persisted at six months follow-up (p<0.001). HRQoL improved significantly and the effects were maintained at follow-up after the treatment. Patients with refractory AP receive beneficial effects from EECP both in physical capacity and HRQoL. As other treatment options for this patient group are scarce, EECP should be offered to improve physical health and HRQoL in these patients.
Sener, Umit; Ucok, Kagan; Ulasli, Alper M; Genc, Abdurrahman; Karabacak, Hatice; Coban, Necip F; Simsek, Hasan; Cevik, Halime
2016-08-01
The purpose of this study was to investigate the physical fitness parameters (maximal aerobic capacity, muscle strength and flexibility), daily physical activity, resting metabolic rate (RMR), pulmonary function tests (PFTs), body composition, depression, anxiety and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) changes as well as the associations among these parameters in patients with fibromyalgia and to compare them with healthy controls. Thirty-nine women with fibromyalgia and 40 controls were included in this study. Physical measurements, HRQoL questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) score were applied to all participants. Maximal aerobic capacity, trunk flexibility, daily step numbers, total energy expenditure, RMR and PFT values were not significantly different between the patients and the controls. Fibromyalgia patients had higher daily moderate activity times, active energy expenditure values, and BDI and BAI scores, while their lower handgrip strength and back-leg strength values and Short-form health survey (SF)-36 scores were comparable to controls. Handgrip strength and back-leg strength values showed moderately positive correlations with SF-36 scores (total, physical health, mental health) and moderately negative correlations with BDI and BAI scores in patients with fibromyalgia. Our results suggested that muscle strength, HRQoL, depression and anxiety symptomatology were impaired in fibromyalgia patients compared to healthy controls. Low muscle strength is related to reduced HRQoL and increased depression and anxiety symptomatology in patients with fibromyalgia. Also we suggest that performing daily exercises, including aerobic and strength training, as part of one's lifestyle may have beneficial effects in fibromyalgia patients. © 2013 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.
Negahban, Hossein; Hessam, Masumeh; Tabatabaei, Saeid; Salehi, Reza; Sohani, Soheil Mansour; Mehravar, Mohammad
2014-01-01
The aim was to culturally translate and validate the Persian lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) in a heterogeneous sample of outpatients with lower extremity musculoskeletal disorders (n = 304). This is a prospective methodological study. After a standard forward-backward translation, psychometric properties were assessed in terms of test-retest reliability, internal consistency, construct validity, dimensionality, and ceiling or floor effects. The acceptable level of intraclass correlation coefficient >0.70 and Cronbach's alpha coefficient >0.70 was obtained for the Persian LEFS. Correlations between Persian LEFS and Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) subscales of Physical Health component (rs range = 0.38-0.78) were higher than correlations between Persian LEFS and SF-36 subscales of Mental Health component (rs range = 0.15-0.39). A corrected item--total correlation of >0.40 (Spearman's rho) was obtained for all items of the Persian LEFS. Horn's parallel analysis detected a total of two factors. No ceiling or floor effects were detected for the Persian LEFS. The Persian version of the LEFS is a reliable and valid instrument that can be used to measure functional status in Persian-speaking patients with different musculoskeletal disorders of the lower extremity. Implications for Rehabilitation The Persian lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) is a reliable, internally consistent and valid instrument, with no ceiling or floor effects, to determine functional status of heterogeneous patients with musculoskeletal disorders of the lower extremity. The Persian version of the LEFS can be used in clinical and research settings to measure function in Iranian patients with different musculoskeletal disorders of the lower extremity.
36 CFR 910.34 - Accommodations for the physically handicapped.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR
2011-07-01
... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Accommodations for the physically handicapped. 910.34 Section 910.34 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION GENERAL GUIDELINES AND UNIFORM STANDARDS FOR URBAN PLANNING AND DESIGN OF DEVELOPMENT...
36 CFR 910.34 - Accommodations for the physically handicapped.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-07-01
... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Accommodations for the physically handicapped. 910.34 Section 910.34 Parks, Forests, and Public Property PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION GENERAL GUIDELINES AND UNIFORM STANDARDS FOR URBAN PLANNING AND DESIGN OF DEVELOPMENT...
Salaffi, F; Leardini, G; Canesi, B; Mannoni, A; Fioravanti, A; Caporali, R; Lapadula, G; Punzi, L
2003-08-01
The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis (OA) Index is a tested questionnaire to assess symptoms and physical functional disability in patients with OA of the knee and the hip. We adapted the WOMAC for the Italian language and tested its metric properties in 304 patients with symptomatic OA of the knee. Three hundred and four consecutive patients, attending 29 rheumatologic outpatient clinic in northern, central, and southern Italy, were asked to answer two disease-specific questionnaires (WOMAC and Lequesne algofunctional index) and one generic instrument (Medical Outcomes Study SF-36 Health Survey-MOS SF-36). A sample of 258 patients was readministered the WOMAC 7-10 days after the first visit and the structured interview, which also assessed demographic and other characteristics. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and construct and discriminant validity using Spearman's correlations, Wilcoxon rank sum test, and Kruskal-Wallis test. All WOMAC subscales (pain, stiffness, and physical function) were internally consistent with Cronbach's coefficient alpha of 0.91, 0.81, and 0.84, respectively. Test-retest reliability was satisfactory with ICCs of 0.86, 0.68, and 0.89, respectively. In comparison with the SF-36, the expected correlations were found when comparing items measuring similar constructs, supporting the concepts of convergent construct validity. Very high correlations were also obtained between WOMAC scores and Lequesne OA algofunctional index. WOMAC physical function, but not WOMAC stiffness and pain subscales, was weakly associated with radiological OA severity (P=0.03). Also, WOMAC pain score was inversely correlated (P=0.01) with years of formal education. Examination of discriminant validity showed that the scores on the WOMAC and SF-36 followed hypothesized patterns: the WOMAC discriminated better among subjects with varying severity of
Evaluation of a role functioning computer adaptive test (RF-CAT).
Anatchkova, M; Rose, M; Ware, J; Bjorner, J B
2013-06-01
To evaluate the validity and participants' acceptance of an online assessment of role function using computer adaptive test (RF-CAT). The RF-CAT and a set of established quality of life instruments were administered in a cross-sectional study in a panel sample (n = 444) recruited from the general population with over-selection of participants with selected self-report chronic conditions (n = 225). The efficiency, score accuracy, validity, and acceptability of the RF-CAT were evaluated and compared to existing measures. The RF-CAT with a stopping rule of six items with content balancing used 25 of the available bank items and was completed on average in 66 s. RF-CAT and the legacy tools scores were highly correlated (.64-.84) and successfully discriminated across known groups. The RF-CAT produced a more precise assessment over a wider range than the SF-36 Role Physical scale. Patients' evaluations of the RF-CAT system were positive overall, with no differences in ratings observed between the CAT and static assessments. The RF-CAT was feasible, more precise than the static SF-36 RP and equally acceptable to participants as legacy measures. In empirical tests of validity, the better performance of the CAT was not uniformly statistically significant. Further research exploring the relationship between gained precision and discriminant power of the CAT assessment is needed.
Tountas, Yannis; Manios, Yannis; Dimitrakaki, Christine; Tzavara, Chara
2007-01-01
The study aimed to explore the association between the presence of several protective health behaviors and physical and mental wellbeing/functioning among healthy hospital employees in Greece. A randomly selected representative sample of 395 employees working in seven hospitals, both public and private, within the wider region of Athens participated in the study. Participants were assigned to the following professional categories: administrative, auxiliary and technical personnel, medical doctors and nurses. Four basic protective health behaviors were examined: following the Mediterranean diet, exercising, no smoking and moderate alcohol drinking. Employees' health related quality of life was assessed with the self-administered SF-36 generic health status measure. Technical and administrative hospital personnel reported more healthy behaviors than medical and auxiliary personnel. There was an increased likelihood of scoring higher in almost all SF-36 Physical health subscales in the accumulation of the above four protective heath behaviors. In terms of mental health, even the presence of two or more protective health behaviors significantly increase the score on most SF-36 Mental health subscales. Results indicate that the protective role of basic health behaviors extends beyond physical health to mental wellbeing.
Effect of urinary incontinence on the quality of life of asthmatic women.
Paes, Florenir Glória da Silva; Salgado Filho, Natalino; Neto da Silva, Marcos Antonio Custódio; Lima, Hugo César Martins; Ferreira, Denicy Alves Pereira; Brandão Nascimento, Maria do Desterro Soares; Costa, Maria do Rosário da Silva Ramos
2016-06-01
Urinary incontinence (UI) has been associated with chronic respiratory symptoms, and it affects quality of life. This study evaluated the quality of life of asthmatic patients from the Assistance Program for Asthmatic Patients (PAPA) with and without UI. This is an analytical descriptive cross-sectional study using a sample of 358 women with asthma. Data were collected via the International Consultation Incontinence Questionnaire-Simplified Form (ICIQ-SF), Quality of Life in Asthma Questionnaire (QLAQ-ASTHMA) and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36). We found a general prevalence of UI of 55.3%. Overall quality of life scores in the SF-36 and QLAQ-ASTHMA were not related to the presence of UI. However, the amount of urine lost was significantly correlated with the subdomains physical aspects, general health, social functioning and mental health of the SF-36 and with socioeconomic and psychosocial domains of the QLAQ-ASTHMA. Urinary incontinence may affect a large proportion of older women with asthma. This study demonstrates the importance of routinely evaluating the occurrence of UI in order to improve the quality of life of asthmatic patients.
Andersen, Daniel; Ryb, Gabriel; Dischinger, Patricia; Kufera, Joseph; Read, Kathleen
2010-01-01
Motor vehicle crash injuries among the elderly are an important public health problem. We sought to determine if older individuals (65 years and older) had worse self-reported physical functioning and mental health status than younger adults (18-64 years) at 6 and 12 months post-injury, while controlling for pre-injury functional status, comorbidity, and injury severity. We used data from two sites of the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) study. After exclusion based on missing Short Form-36 (SF-36) values, the final sample consisted of 579 CIREN cases; there were 500 individuals age 18-64 and 79 individuals (13.6%) age 65 or older. The outcome measures included the physical functioning scale (PFS), vitality scale (VS), and mental health scale (MHS) of the SF-36. The proportion of younger and older adults that had comorbidity was 17.6% and 54.4%, respectively. Multivariate linear regression models indicated that comorbidity, baseline PFS, and severe injury (Injury Severity Score [ISS] 25+ vs. ISS ≤ 8) were significantly associated with PFS scores at 6 months, but only comorbidity and baseline PFS were associated with PFS at 12 months. Multivariate models indicated that only pre-injury VS (p < .001) was associated with the VS at 6 months, but that both comorbidity (p < .01) and pre-injury VS (p < .001) were associated with VS at 12 months. MHS at 6 months was significantly associated with only the baseline MHS score, but both comorbidity and pre-injury MHS were associated with MHS at 12 months. There was no significant difference in the change in any of the SF-36 domains during the study year. Advanced age was not associated with lower self-reported health in any of the three SF-36 domains compared to younger age when pre-injury ISS and comorbidity were included in the model.
Galioto Wiedemann, R; Calvo, D; Meister, J; Spitznagel, M B
2014-12-01
Convergent evidence demonstrates that greater physical activity is associated with better cognitive functioning across many patient and healthy samples. However, this relationship has not been well examined among obese individuals and remains unclear. The present study examined the relationship between performance-based measures of attention/executive function and self-reported physical activity, as measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, among lean (n = 36) and obese (n = 36) college students. Lean individuals performed better than obese individuals on measures of attention/executive function. No significant differences in self-reported physical activity emerged between weight groups. Higher self-reported physical activity was related to faster reaction time in lean individuals but slower reaction time in obese individuals. Additionally, in lean individuals, higher levels of self-reported physical activity were related to more errors on a task of speeded inhibitory control. The results are consistent with previous research demonstrating that greater physical activity is associated with faster attention and executive function abilities in healthy samples and highlight the importance of examining reaction time and accuracy indices separately on these measures. The lack of association among obese individuals may be due in part to inaccurate self-report in the current study. Additionally, the cognitive consequences of obesity may outweigh the benefits of physical activity in this group. Future work should investigate these associations in obese individuals using physical activity interventions, as well as a combination of self-report and objective measures to investigate discrepancies in reporting. © 2014 The Authors. Clinical Obesity © 2014 World Obesity.
Effect of Fibromyalgia Symptoms on Outcome of Spinal Surgery.
Ablin, Jacob N; Berman, Mark; Aloush, Valerie; Regev, Gilad; Salame, Khalil; Buskila, Dan; Lidar, Zvi
2017-04-01
To evaluate the effect of presurgical symptoms characteristic of fibromyalgia on the postsurgical outcome of patients undergoing spinal surgery. In this observational cohort study, participants were patients scheduled for spinal surgery, including cervical or lumbar laminectomy and foraminectomy. Presurgical evaluation included physical examination and manual dolorimetry. Questionnaires included the widespread pain index (WPI), symptom severity scale (SSS), and SF-36. Postsurgical evaluation performed at 10-12 weeks included questionnaires, physical examination, and dolorimetry. Forty patients (21 male, 19 female) were recruited. Four patients (10%) fulfilled American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 1990 fibromyalgia; nine patients fulfilled 2010 criteria (22.5%). Overall, a significant 34% reduction in WPI was observed postsurgically ( P < 0.01), but no significant change was observed in SSS. Comparing outcomes for patients fulfilling and not fulfilling fibromyalgia criteria, fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS)-negative patients experienced highly significant reductions of both SSS and WPI (-50.1% and -42.9%, respectively, P < 0.01), while FMS-positive patients experienced no reduction of SSS symptoms and only a marginally significant reduction in WPI (-20.3%, P = 0.04). A significant negative correlation was observed between results of presurgical WPI and change in physical role functioning SF-36 component postsurgically. A significant negative correlation was observed between presurgical SSS and change in composite physical functioning SF-36 component. Regression analysis demonstrated a difference in trend between FMS-positive and FMS-negative patients regarding postop changes in SSS, as well as a difference in trend regarding the general health role limitation due to emotional problems and pain components of the SF-36. Fibromyalgia symptoms were highly prevalent among patients scheduled for spinal surgery. A negative correlation was observed between
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Berretta, Marcelo F.; Deshpande, Mandar; Crouch, Erin A.
2006-04-25
We compared the abilities of late gene transcription and DNA replication machineries of the baculoviruses Autographa californica nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) and Bombyx mori NPV (BmNPV) in SF-21 cells, an insect-derived cell line permissive for AcMNPV infection. It has been well established that 19 AcMNPV late expression factors (lefs) stimulate substantial levels of late gene promoter activity in SF-21 cells. Thus, we constructed a set of clones containing the BmNPV homologs of the AcMNPV lefs under control of the constitutive Drosophila heat shock 70 protein promoter and tested their ability to activate an AcMNPV late promoter-reporter gene cassette in SF-21 cells. Wemore » tested the potential of individual or predicted functional groups of BmNPV lefs to successfully replace the corresponding AcMNPV gene(s) in transient late gene expression assays. We found that most, but not all, BmNPV lefs were able to either fully or partially substitute for the corresponding AcMNPV homolog in the context of the remaining AcMNPV lefs with the exception of BmNPV p143, ie-2, and p35. BmNPV p143 was unable to support late gene expression or be imported into the nucleus of cells in the presence of the AcMNPV or the BmNPV LEF-3, a P143 nuclear shuttling factor. Our results suggest that host-specific factors may affect the function of homologous proteins.« less
Davis, A M; Devlin, M; Griffin, A M; Wunder, J S; Bell, R S
1999-06-01
To quantify the differences in physical disability and handicap experienced by patients with lower extremity sarcoma who required amputation for their primary tumor as compared with those treated by limb-sparing surgery. Matched case-control study. Twelve patients with amputation were matched with 24 patients treated by limb-sparing surgery on the following variables: age, gender, length of follow-up, bone versus soft-tissue tumor, anatomic site, and treatment with adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients who underwent above-knee amputation (AKA) or below-knee amputation (BKA) for primary soft-tissue or bone sarcoma, who had not developed local or systemic recurrence, and who had been followed up for at least 1 year since surgery. The Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS), a measure of physical disability; the Shortform-36 (SF-36), a generic health status measure; and the Reintegration to Normal Living (RNL), a measure of handicap. Mean TESS score for the patients with amputations was 74.5 versus 85.1 for the limb-sparing patients. (p = .15). Only the physical function subscale of the SF-36 showed statistically significant differences, with means of 45 and 71.1 for the amputation versus limb-sparing groups, respectively (p = .03). The RNL for the amputation group was 84.4 versus 97 for the limb-sparing group (p = .05). Seven of the 12 patients with amputations experienced ongoing difficulty with the soft tissues overlying their stumps. There was a trend toward increased disability for those in the amputation group versus those in the limb-sparing group, with the amputation group showing significantly higher levels of handicap. These data suggest that the differences in disability between amputation and limb-sparing patients are smaller than anticipated. The differences may be more notable in measuring handicap.
Patient reported allergies are a risk factor for poor outcomes in total hip and knee arthroplasty.
Graves, Christopher M; Otero, Jesse E; Gao, Yubo; Goetz, Devon D; Willenborg, Melissa D; Callaghan, John J
2014-09-01
We evaluated 459 patients undergoing THA or TKA who completed preoperative and postoperative WOMAC and/or SF36 surveys. Medical comorbidities and reported allergies were also recorded. Evaluation of surveys was compared for patients with or without 4 or more reported allergies using statistical methods. Patients with 4 or more reported allergies had less improvement on SF36 Physical Component Score (∆PCS=4.2) than those with 0-3 allergies (∆PCS=10.0, P=0.0002). Regression analysis showed that this change was independent of self-reported comorbidities. Patients reporting 4 or more allergies also had less improvement in WOMAC function (∆F=21.4) than those with 0-3 allergies (∆F = 27.2, P=0.036). Similar nonsignificant trends occurred in SF36 mental and WOMAC pain and stiffness scores. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
36 CFR 1194.31 - Functional performance criteria.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-07-01
... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Functional performance... Performance Criteria § 1194.31 Functional performance criteria. (a) At least one mode of operation and... audio and enlarged print output working together or independently, or support for assistive technology...
Wang-Saegusa, Ana; Cugat, Ramón; Ares, Oscar; Seijas, Roberto; Cuscó, Xavier; Garcia-Balletbó, Montserrat
2011-03-01
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent, chronic, degenerative condition that generates a high expense. Alternative and co-adjuvant therapies to improve the quality of life and physical function of affected patients are currently being sought. A total of 808 patients with knee pathology were treated with PRGF (plasma rich in growth factors), 312 of them with OA of the knee (Outerbridge grades I-IV) and symptoms of >3 months duration met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated to obtain a sample of 261 patients, 109 women and 152 men, with an average age of 48.39. Three intra-articular injections of autologous PRGF were administered at 2-week intervals in outpatient surgery. The process of obtaining PRGF was carried out following the Anitua Technique. Participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire with personal data and the following assessment instruments: VAS, SF-36, WOMAC Index and Lequesne Index before the first infiltration of PRGF and 6 months after the last infiltration. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.0001) between pre-treatment and follow-up values were found for pain, stiffness and functional capacity in the WOMAC Index; pain and total score, distance and daily life activities in the Lequesne Index; the VAS pain score; and the SF-36 physical health domain. There were no adverse effects related to PRGF infiltration. At 6 months following intra-articular infiltration of PRGF in patients with OA of the knee, improvements in function and quality of life were documented by OA-specific and general clinical assessment instruments. These favourable findings point to consider PRGF as a therapy for OA.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Sciuto, Tracey E.; Merley, Anne; Lin, Chi-Iou
2015-09-25
Transmembrane-4 L-six family member-1 (TM4SF1) is a small plasma membrane-associated glycoprotein that is highly and selectively expressed on the plasma membranes of tumor cells, cultured endothelial cells, and, in vivo, on tumor-associated endothelium. Immunofluorescence microscopy also demonstrated TM4SF1 in cytoplasm and, tentatively, within nuclei. With monoclonal antibody 8G4, and the finer resolution afforded by immuno-nanogold transmission electron microscopy, we now demonstrate TM4SF1 in uncoated cytoplasmic vesicles, nuclear pores and nucleoplasm. Because of its prominent surface location on tumor cells and tumor-associated endothelium, TM4SF1 has potential as a dual therapeutic target using an antibody drug conjugate (ADC) approach. For ADC to bemore » successful, antibodies reacting with cell surface antigens must be internalized for delivery of associated toxins to intracellular targets. We now report that 8G4 is efficiently taken up into cultured endothelial cells by uncoated vesicles in a dynamin-dependent, clathrin-independent manner. It is then transported along microtubules through the cytoplasm and passes through nuclear pores into the nucleus. These findings validate TM4SF1 as an attractive candidate for cancer therapy with antibody-bound toxins that have the capacity to react with either cytoplasmic or nuclear targets in tumor cells or tumor-associated vascular endothelium. - Highlights: • Anti-TM4SF1 antibody 8G4 was efficiently taken up by cultured endothelial cells. • TM4SF1–8G4 internalization is dynamin-dependent but clathrin-independent. • TM4SF1–8G4 complexes internalize along microtubules to reach the perinuclear region. • Internalized TM4SF1–8G4 complexes pass through nuclear pores into the nucleus. • TM4SF1 is an attractive candidate for ADC cancer therapy.« less
Quality-of-life impairment in neurofibromatosis type 1: a cross-sectional study of 128 cases.
Wolkenstein, P; Zeller, J; Revuz, J; Ecosse, E; Leplège, A
2001-11-01
Neurofibromatosis type 1 affects quality of life (QoL) through association with severe complications, impact on cosmetic features, and uncertainty of the effects of the disorder. To evaluate the impact of the severity and visibility of neurofibromatosis type 1 on QoL. Monocenter, cross-sectional study. One French academic dermatological and neurofibromatoses clinic. A total of 128 adult patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. Evaluation of severity and visibility using, respectively, the Riccardi and Ablon scales. Evaluation of skin disease-specific and general QoL using, respectively, Skindex-France and SF-36 (Short Form 36 health survey) profiles controlled for sex, age, severity, and visibility. In a multiple regression model controlling for sex, age, and visibility, visibility remained independently associated with the alteration of 3 aspects of the skin disease-specific QoL (Skindex-France): emotions, physical symptoms, and functioning (P =.03, P =.009, and P =.002, respectively). Patients with more severe neurofibromatosis reported more effects on the following domains of their general health QoL (SF-36): physical function, bodily pain, general health perception, and vitality (P =.006, P =.03, P =.01, and P =.04, respectively). Neurofibromatosis type 1 has a significant impact on QoL through alteration of health and appearance. The consequences of visibility and severity from the viewpoint of patients can be evaluated using Skindex and the SF-36, respectively.
Zhang, Xiaoxing; Chen, Qinchuan; Tang, Ju; Hu, Weihua; Zhang, Jinbin
2014-01-01
The detection of partial discharge by analyzing the components of SF6 gas in gas-insulated switchgears is important to the diagnosis and assessment of the operational state of power equipment. A gas sensor based on anatase TiO2 is used to detect decomposed gases in SF6. In this paper, first-principle density functional theory calculations are adopted to analyze the adsorption of SO2, SOF2, and SO2F2, the primary decomposition by-products of SF6 under partial discharge, on anatase (101) and (001) surfaces. Simulation results show that the perfect anatase (001) surface has a stronger interaction with the three gases than that of anatase (101), and both surfaces are more sensitive and selective to SO2 than to SOF2 and SO2F2. The selection of a defect surface to SO2, SOF2, and SO2F2 differs from that of a perfect surface. This theoretical result is corroborated by the sensing experiment using a TiO2 nanotube array (TNTA) gas sensor. The calculated values are analyzed to explain the results of the Pt-doped TNTA gas sensor sensing experiment. The results imply that the deposited Pt nanoparticles on the surface increase the active sites of the surface and the gas molecules may decompose upon adsorption on the active sites. PMID:24755845
Konaka, Hiroyuki; Sugimoto, Kazuhiro; Orikasa, Hideki; Iwamoto, Teruaki; Takamura, Toshinari; Takeda, Yoshiyu; Shigehara, Kazuyoshi; Iijima, Masashi; Koh, Eitetsu; Namiki, Mikio
2016-01-01
Androgen replacement therapy (ART) efficacy on late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) has been widely investigated in Western countries; however, it remains controversial whether ART can improve health and prolong active lifestyles. We prospectively assessed long-term ART effects on the physical and mental statuses of aging men with LOH in Japan. The primary endpoint was health-related quality of life assessed by questionnaires. Secondary endpoints included glycemic control, lipid parameters, blood pressure, waist circumference, body composition, muscular strength, International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS), International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) scores, and serum prostate-specific antigen levels. Of the 1637 eligible volunteers, 334 patients > 40 years with LOH were randomly assigned to either the ART (n = 169) or control groups (n = 165). Fifty-two weeks after the initial treatment, ART significantly affected the role physical subdomain of the short form-36 health survey (SF-36) scale (P = 0.0318). ART was also associated with significant decreases in waist circumstance (P = 0.002) and serum triglyceride (TG) (P = 0.013) and with significant increases in whole-body and leg muscle mass volumes (P = 0.071 and 0.0108, respectively), serum hemoglobin (P < 0.001), IPSS voiding subscore (P = 0.0418), and the second question on IIEF-5 (P = 0.0049). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of severe adverse events. In conclusion, in patients with LOH, long-term ART exerted beneficial effects on Role Physical subdomain of the SF-36 scale, serum TG, waist circumstance, muscle mass volume, voiding subscore of IPSS, and the second question of IIEF-5. We hope our study will contribute to the future development of this area. PMID:25761833
Leavitt, Justin C.; Gilcrease, Eddie B.; Wilson, Kassandra; Casjens, Sherwood R.
2013-01-01
Bacteriophage Sf6 DNA packaging series initiate at many locations across a 2 kbp region. Our in vivo studies that show that Sf6 small terminase subunit (TerS) protein recognizes a specific packaging (pac) site near the center of this region, that this site lies within the portion of the Sf6 gene that encodes the DNA-binding domain of TerS protein, that this domain of the TerS protein is responsible for the imprecision in Sf6 packaging initiation, and that the DNA-binding domain of TerS must be covalently attached to the domain that interacts with the rest of the packaging motor. The TerS DNA-binding domain is self-contained in that it apparently does not interact closely with the rest of the motor and it binds to a recognition site that lies within the DNA that encodes the domain. This arrangement has allowed the horizontal exchange of terS genes among phages to be very successful. PMID:23562538
High-energy fractures of the tibial plateau. Knee function after longer follow-up.
Weigel, Dennis P; Marsh, J Lawrence
2002-09-01
Studies of the long-term outcomes of treatment of fractures of the tibial plateau have included wide mixtures of fracture types and mostly low-energy split and split-depression fractures. The long-term results of treatment of high-energy intra-articular proximal tibial fractures are unknown. The purpose of this study was to assess the function of the knee and the development of arthrosis at a minimum of five years after injury in a consecutive series of patients in whom a high-energy fracture of the tibial plateau had been treated with a uniform technique of external fixation. Between July 1988 and December 1994, thirty patients with a total of thirty-one fractures of the tibial plateau were treated with a monolateral external fixator and limited internal fixation of the articular surface. Follow-up data on twenty-four knees in twenty-three patients were obtained at a mean of ninety-eight months. Twenty patients (twenty knees) returned specifically for the study, at which time they completed an Iowa Knee Score questionnaire and a Short Form-36 (SF-36) general health survey, a physical examination was performed, and weight-bearing radiographs were made. The results of the SF-36 evaluations for fourteen patients and the Knee Scores for twelve were compared with those obtained five years previously, at two to four years after the injury. After healing, no patient required a secondary reconstructive procedure. The range of motion of the knee averaged 3 degrees of extension to 120 degrees flexion, which was an average of 87% of the total arc of the contralateral knee. The average Iowa Knee Score was 90 points (range, 72 to 100 points). For twelve patients, the Iowa Knee Score previously recorded at two to four years averaged 92 points, as did the score at the time of the latest follow-up. Thirteen patients rated their outcome as excellent; six, as good; and three, as fair. Fifteen patients were working, and ten of them were performing strenuous labor. Radiographs showed
Peyre, Hugo; Leplège, Alain; Coste, Joël
2011-03-01
Missing items are common in quality of life (QoL) questionnaires and present a challenge for research in this field. It remains unclear which of the various methods proposed to deal with missing data performs best in this context. We compared personal mean score, full information maximum likelihood, multiple imputation, and hot deck techniques using various realistic simulation scenarios of item missingness in QoL questionnaires constructed within the framework of classical test theory. Samples of 300 and 1,000 subjects were randomly drawn from the 2003 INSEE Decennial Health Survey (of 23,018 subjects representative of the French population and having completed the SF-36) and various patterns of missing data were generated according to three different item non-response rates (3, 6, and 9%) and three types of missing data (Little and Rubin's "missing completely at random," "missing at random," and "missing not at random"). The missing data methods were evaluated in terms of accuracy and precision for the analysis of one descriptive and one association parameter for three different scales of the SF-36. For all item non-response rates and types of missing data, multiple imputation and full information maximum likelihood appeared superior to the personal mean score and especially to hot deck in terms of accuracy and precision; however, the use of personal mean score was associated with insignificant bias (relative bias <2%) in all studied situations. Whereas multiple imputation and full information maximum likelihood are confirmed as reference methods, the personal mean score appears nonetheless appropriate for dealing with items missing from completed SF-36 questionnaires in most situations of routine use. These results can reasonably be extended to other questionnaires constructed according to classical test theory.
SF Bay Delta TMDL Progress Assessment
EPA assessed the progress 14 TMDLs in the SF Bay Delta Estuary (SF Bay Delta) to determine if the actions called for in the TMDL were being accomplished and water quality was improving. Status and water quality reports can be found here.
Johansen, Heidi; Østlie, Kristin; Andersen, Liv Øinæs; Rand-Hendriksen, Svend
2016-11-01
To examine subjective health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adults with congenital unilateral upper limb deficiency (UULD) in Norway and to explore the associations between demographic and clinical factors and HRQoL. Cross-sectional study comparing HRQoL, measured by SF-36, among adults with UULD and an age- and gender-matched control group from the Norwegian general population (NGP). Seventy-seven respondents, median age 42 years (range: 20-82); 71% were women. Most had left-sided (61%), below elbow (53%), transverse (73%) deficiency. Compared to the NGP, the UULD group reported reduced HRQoL on all SF-36 subscales except for the role emotional (RE) scale (p=0.321), mental health (MH) (p=0.055) and mental component summary (MCS) (p=0.064). The greatest difference was on the bodily pain (BP) scale (point difference of 20.0). Multiple linear regression models showed significant association between several physical- and mental SF-36 subscales and occupational status, occurrence of comorbidity and chronic pain. Persons with UULD reported reduced HRQoL on most SF-36 subscales, mostly in the physical health domain. Employment status, occurrence of comorbidity and chronic pain seem to have a negative impact on the HRQoL. Measures that can reduce pain and loss of function should be given particular attention in UULD rehabilitation. Implications for Rehabilitation Persons with congenital unilateral upper limb deficiency (UULD) who experience pain and discomfort should seek professional help for evaluating their everyday coping strategies. Professionals who meet persons with UULD should examine anomalies, comorbidity, pain and employment status before choosing advices and actions. Individually adapted grip-improving devices, environments, physical exercise and pain management programs should be implemented early to reduce pain, loss of function and decreased HRQoL. A multidisciplinary approach is often necessary when counseling persons with UULD.
Kulasekaran, Anuradha; Proctor, Christopher; Papadopoulou, Ermioni; Shepperd, Christopher J; Guyer, Rick; Gandek, Barbara; Ware, John E
2015-12-01
Assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is well established in clinical research, but ceiling effects in validated tools might prevent detection of changes in well respondents. Tobacco Quality of Life Impact Tool (TQOLITv1) uses conceptual and psychometric advances to enhance detection of HRQoL changes. In a 6-month, forced-switch study, the German TQOLITv1 was assessed in healthy adult (age 23-55 years) current and matched former-smokers. At baseline, smokers were switched to reduced toxicant prototype (RTP) or conventional cigarette for 6 months. TQOLITv1 responses were collected at baseline, 3 and 6 months from current smokers whilst former smokers completed it at the latter two time points. TQOLITv1 includes SF-36v2 and new smoking-specific, physical and general-health measures. Reliability at baseline was good (Cronbach's coefficient alpha > 0.70) for all measures. The baseline percentage with the best possible score (ceiling effect) for former and current smokers was substantially better for the new physical function than SF-36 physical function measure (35% vs. 59% at ceiling, respectively). New smoking-specific measures discriminated current from former smokers better than general health measures. Smoking-specific symptoms (r = 0.73) were more stable from baseline to 6 months than other measures (r = 0.38-0.54) particularly more than the SF-36 mental component score (r = 0.24). Although both product smoking groups worsened in most HRQoL measures, changes in general and smoking-specific HRQoL impact measures favored RTP smokers. The German TQOLITv1 is sufficiently reliable and valid to assess HRQoL and may be more useful than SF-36v2 in evaluation of interventions in well smoking populations including those consuming RTPs. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco.
Zhong, Tao; Chung, Pak-Kwong; Liu, Jing Dong
2018-02-01
Independent from noise exposure, noise sensitivity plays a pivotal role in people's noise annoyance perception and concomitant health deteriorations. The present study empirically investigated the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Weinstein Noise Sensitivity Scale-Short Form (CNSS-SF), the widely used inventory measuring individual differences in noise perception. In total, 373 Chinese participants (age = 21.41 ± 3.36) completed the online, anonymous questionnaire package. Examination of the CNSS-SF's reliability (internal consistency), factorial validity through validation and cross-validation, nomological validity and measurement invariance across gender groups were undertaken. The Cronbach alpha coefficients and composite reliabilities indicated sufficient reliability of the CNSS-SF. Two confirmatory factor analyses (CFA), in two randomly partitioned groups of participants, substantiated the factorial validity of the scale. The nomological validity of the scale was also corroborated by the significant positive association of its score with the trait anxiety score. Measurement invariance of the CNSS-SF was also found across genders via multi-group CFA. Though not without limitations, findings from the present research provide promising evidence for the utility of the scale in measuring noise sensitivity among the Chinese population. The availability of the CNSS-SF can promote research related to environmental noise and health in China, as well as facilitate cross-cultural comparisons. Copyright © 2018 The Editorial Board of Biomedical and Environmental Sciences. Published by China CDC. All rights reserved.
Miao, Yudong; Zhang, Liang; Sparring, Vibeke; Sandeep, Sandeep; Tang, Wenxi; Sun, Xiaowei; Feng, Da; Ye, Ting
2016-08-23
Integrative strategy of health services delivery has been proven to be effective in economically developed countries, where the healthcare systems have enough qualified primary care providers. However rural China lacks such providers to act as gatekeeper, besides, Chinese rural hypertensive patients are usually of old age, more likely to be exposed to health risk factors and they experience a greater socio-economic burden. All these Chinese rural setting specific features make the effectiveness of integrative strategy of health services in improving health related quality of life among Chinese rural hypertensive patients uncertain. In order to assess the impact of integrative strategy of health services delivery on health related quality of life among Chinese rural hypertensive patients, a two-year quasi-experimental trial was conducted in Chongqing, China. At baseline the sample enrolled 1006 hypertensive patients into intervention group and 420 hypertensive patients into control group. Physicians from village clinics, town hospitals and county hospitals worked collaboratively to deliver multidisciplinary health services for the intervention group, while physicians in the control group provided services without cooperation. The quality of life was studied by SF-36 Scale. Blood pressures were reported by town hospitals. The Difference-in-Differences model was used to estimate the differences in SF-36 score and blood pressure of both groups to assess the impact. The study showed that at baseline there was no statistical difference in SF-36 scores between both groups. While at follow-up the intervention group scored higher in overall SF-36, Role Physical, Body Pain, Social Functioning and Role Emotional than the control group. The Difference-in-Differences result demonstrated that there were statistical differences in SF-36 total score (p = 0.011), Role Physical (p = 0.027), Social Functioning (p = 0.000), Role Emotional (p = 0.002) between both
Cai, Tommaso; Morgia, Giuseppe; Carrieri, Giuseppe; Terrone, Carlo; Imbimbo, Ciro; Verze, Paolo; Mirone, Vincenzo
2013-12-31
The relationship between lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile dysfunction (ED) has recently received increased attention. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the Alfa-5® association of Serenoa repens, Pinus massoniana Bark Extract (PMBE) and Crocus sativus (IDIProst® Gold) in improvement of patient's quality of life, when compared with Serenoa repens alone. All patients with clinical and instrumental diagnosis of LUTS due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and ED, attending 5 Italians Urological Institutions from May to December 2012 were enrolled in this prospective, multicentre, phase 3 study. Participants were assigned to receive oral capsules of IDIProst® Gold (one capsule q24 h) or Serenoa repens 320 mg (one capsule q24h) for 3 months. Clinical and instrumental analyses were carried out at the enrollment and at the end of therapy. IPSS, IIEF-5 and SF-36 questionnaires have been used. The main outcome measure was the improvement of quality of life at the end of the whole study period. 129 (mean age 45-71 ± 4.36) men were randomly allocated to IDIProst® Gold (n = 83) or Serenoa repens (n = 46). The baseline questionnaire mean scores were 17.1 ± 6.4, 14.9 ± 3.7, 96.3 ± 1.2 for IPSS, IIEF-5 and SF-36, respectively. At the follow-up examination, statistically significant differences have been reported in terms of IPSS (11.9 vs 13.8; p < 0.001), IIEF-5 and SF-36 mean scores (19.3 vs 16.1; 99.7 vs 96.3; p < 0.003; p < 0.001). Moreover, statistically significant differences were then reported between the two visits, in terms of IPSS, IIEF-5 and SF-36 scores (p < 0.003; p < 0.001; p < 0.001), only in the IDIProst® Gold group. In conclusions, we found that IDIProst® Gold significantly improve the quality of life of patients affected by LUTS due to BPH and ED, specifically in terms of sexual function, highlighting that a better sexual quality of life is correlated with an higher overall quality of life regardless of the urinary
Effects of Personality Disorders on Functioning and Well-Being in Major Depressive Disorder
SKODOL, ANDREW E.; GRILO, CARLOS M.; PAGANO, MARIA E.; BENDER, DONNA S.; GUNDERSON, JOHN G.; SHEA, M. TRACIE; YEN, SHIRLEY; ZANARINI, MARY C.; MCGLASHAN, THOMAS H.
2008-01-01
Background Patients with depressive disorders have limitations in physical and emotional functioning comparable to patients with chronic medical conditions. Personality disorders (PDs) are also known to be associated with functional impairment. Aims To determine the effects of PDs on the functioning and well-being of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Method In the Collaborative Longitudinal Personality Disorders Study, 668 patients who met criteria for schizotypal, borderline, avoidant, or obsessive-compulsive PDs or for MDD and no PD were assessed with semi-structured interviews at baseline, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. In this study, 151 patients who met criteria for current MDD at the 36-month follow-up were compared on the basis of the presence (n = 118) or absence (n = 33) of persistent PD. Physical and social/emotional functioning and well-being were assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). These results were compared with those of a sample of patients with MDD seen in the mental health specialty sector who were followed in the Medical Outcomes Study. Results Patients with MDD and co-occurring PD had significantly more impairment on scales measuring role limitations due to emotional problems, social functioning, and general health perceptions than patients with MDD and no PD. Although patients with MDD and no PD were found to have levels of functioning and well-being that were lower in several domains than those previously reported in depressed patients recruited from mental health settings, patients with MDD and co-occurring PD were found to have much lower levels of functioning in all areas than reported samples. Conclusions Co-occurring PDs contribute significantly to impairment in social and emotional functioning and reduced well-being in patients with MDD. PMID:16304504
Determinants of functional recovery in older adults surgically treated for cancer.
Hodgson, Nancy A; Given, Charles W
2004-01-01
The purpose of this study was to examine the psychosocial and disease-specific factors that influence functional recovery in older adults newly diagnosed with cancer. Multivariate logistic regression models were estimated using panel data from a sample of community-residing adults older than 65 years surgically treated for lung, prostate, breast, or colorectal cancer (N = 172). Data were obtained between 1993 and 1997 during interviews 4 to 6 weeks after cancer surgery for Wave 1 and 14 to 16 weeks after hospital discharge for Wave 2. The outcome measure, functional recovery, was determined by comparing the physical function and physical role subscales of Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) SF-36 over time. Findings showed that prostatectomy patients were more likely to recover by Wave 2 when compared to individuals with lung, colon, or breast resections. Comorbidities and symptom severity were each significantly associated with a decreased probability of recovery. Pain and fatigue were the most common and most severe symptoms reported, regardless of primary site. Psychological well-being was a significant factor influencing functional recovery when age, comorbidities, site of disease, and symptom severity were controlled. The results clearly point to the need for psychological support following cancer surgery.
Lee, Doohyung; Lee, Jung Weon
2015-01-01
Tumor metastasis involves circulating and tumor-initiating capacities of metastatic cancer cells. Hepatic TM4SF5 promotes EMT for malignant growth and migration. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) biomarkers remain unexplored for metastatic potential throughout metastasis. Here, novel TM4SF5/CD44 interaction-mediated self-renewal and circulating tumor cell (CTC) capacities were mechanistically explored. TM4SF5-dependent sphere growth was correlated with CD133+, CD24-, ALDH activity, and a physical association between CD44 and TM4SF5. The TM4SF5/CD44 interaction activated c-Src/STAT3/ Twist1/ B mi1 signaling for spheroid formation, while disturbing the interaction, expression, or activity of any component in this signaling pathway inhibited spheroid formation. In serial xenografts of less than 5,000 cells/injection, TM4SF5-positive tumors exhibited locally-increased CD44 expression, suggesting tumor cell differentiation. TM4SF5-positive cells were identified circulating in blood 4 to 6 weeks after orthotopic liver-injection. Anti-TM4SF reagents blocked their metastasis to distal intestinal organs. Altogether, our results provide evidence that TM4SF5 promotes self-renewal and CTC properties supported by CD133+/TM4SF5+/CD44+(TM4SF5-bound)/ALDH+/ CD24- markers during HCC metastasis. [BMB Reports 2015; 48(3): 127-128] PMID:25772760
Lee, Minyoung; Lee, Sang Heon; Kim, TaeYeong; Yoo, Hyun-Joon; Kim, Sung Hoon; Suh, Dong-Won; Son, Jaebum; Yoon, BumChul
2017-01-01
To explore the feasibility of a newly developed smartphone-based exercise program with an embedded self-classification algorithm for office workers with neck pain, by examining its effect on the pain intensity, functional disability, quality of life, fear avoidance, and cervical range of motion (ROM). Single-group, repeated-measures design. The laboratory and participants' home and work environments. Offices workers with neck pain (N=23; mean age ± SD, 28.13±2.97y; 13 men). Participants were classified as having 1 of 4 types of neck pain through a self-classification algorithm implemented as a smartphone application, and conducted corresponding exercise programs for 10 to 12min/d, 3d/wk, for 8 weeks. The visual analog scale (VAS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ), and cervical ROM were measured at baseline and postintervention. The VAS (P<.001) and NDI score (P<.001) indicated significant improvements in pain intensity and functional disability. Quality of life showed significant improvements in the physical functioning (P=.007), bodily pain (P=.018), general health (P=.022), vitality (P=.046), and physical component scores (P=.002) of the SF-36. The FABQ, cervical ROM, and mental component score of the SF-36 showed no significant improvements. The smartphone-based exercise program with an embedded self-classification algorithm improves the pain intensity and perceived physical health of office workers with neck pain, although not enough to affect their mental and emotional states. Copyright © 2016 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Physical activity and physical activity adherence in the elderly based on smoking status.
Cooper, Theodore V; Resor, Michelle R; Stoever, Colby J; Dubbert, Patricia M
2007-10-01
This study assessed the impact of current smoking status and lifetime smoking status on physical fitness and physical activity regimen adherence as part of a larger study on walking for exercise in elderly primary care patients at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center. At baseline, 218 participants self-reported smoking status which was verified by carbon monoxide expiration. Former and current smokers responded to questions about length of time quit, average daily cigarette intake, and years a smoker. Smoking measures were re-collected at 6- and 12-month follow-ups if the participants indicated a change in smoking status. Veterans completed multiple measures of physical activity (e.g., 6-min walk, 7-day Physical Activity Recall), and adherence to a physical activity goal was assessed. The Physical Component Summary (PCS) subscale of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (MOS SF-36) was used to assess health-related quality of life. Hierarchical regression models indicated smoking status was a predictor of the baseline 6-min walk such that smokers walked significantly shorter distances than nonsmokers. In addition, smoking status was found to be a significant predictor of adherence; however, the overall model that included smoking status as a predictor did not demonstrate a significant effect on adherence. Neither smoking status nor pack years were predictors of baseline self-reported physical activity or changes in physical activity post intervention. Results are consistent with recommendations to use physical exercise as an aid to tobacco cessation, even in aging men with extensive smoking histories.
Aoki, Kana; Sakuma, Mayumi; Ogisho, Noriyuki; Nakamura, Kozo; Chosa, Etsuo; Endo, Naoto
2015-01-01
Exercise is essential for maintaining quality of life (QOL) in elderly individuals. However, adherence to exercise programs is low. Here, we assessed the effectiveness of a self-directed home exercise program with serial telephone contacts to encourage exercise adherence among elderly individuals at high risk of locomotor dysfunction. We recruited community-dwelling adults (ァ65 years) in Niigata, Japan, who were targets of the long-term care prevention project for locomotor dysfunction but did not participate in the government-sponsored prevention programs. The study was conducted from November 2011 to October 2012. Participants received exercise instruction and performed exercises independently for 3 months with serial telephone contacts. The single-leg stance and five-times sit-to-stand tests were used to assess physical function. The SF-8 was used to measure health-related QOL. Ninety-seven participants were enrolled in the study, representing 2.5% of eligible people;87 completed the intervention. Scores from physical function tests were significantly improved by the intervention, as were 7 of eight SF-8 subscales. Adherence was 85.4% for the single-leg standing exercise and 82.1% for squatting. Thus, self-directed home exercise with serial telephone contacts improved physical function and health-related QOL, representing a promising model for preventing the need for long-term care due to locomotor dysfunction.
Physical Activity in Hemodialysis Patients Measured by Triaxial Accelerometer
Gomes, Edimar Pedrosa; Reboredo, Maycon Moura; Carvalho, Erich Vidal; Teixeira, Daniel Rodrigues; Carvalho, Laís Fernanda Caldi d'Ornellas; Filho, Gilberto Francisco Ferreira; de Oliveira, Julio César Abreu; Sanders-Pinheiro, Helady; Chebli, Júlio Maria Fonseca; de Paula, Rogério Baumgratz; Pinheiro, Bruno do Valle
2015-01-01
Different factors can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle among hemodialysis (HD) patients, including the period they spend on dialysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate characteristics of physical activities in daily life in this population by using an accurate triaxial accelerometer and to correlate these characteristics with physiological variables. Nineteen HD patients were evaluated using the DynaPort accelerometer and compared to nineteen control individuals, regarding the time spent in different activities and positions of daily life and the number of steps taken. HD patients were more sedentary than control individuals, spending less time walking or standing and spending more time lying down. The sedentary behavior was more pronounced on dialysis days. According to the number of steps taken per day, 47.4% of hemodialysis patients were classified as sedentary against 10.5% in control group. Hemoglobin level, lower extremity muscle strength, and physical functioning of SF-36 questionnaire correlated significantly with the walking time and active time. Looking accurately at the patterns of activity in daily life, HDs patients are more sedentary, especially on dialysis days. These patients should be motivated to enhance the physical activity. PMID:26090432
Changes in working conditions and physical health functioning among midlife and ageing employees.
Mänty, Minna; Kouvonen, Anne; Lallukka, Tea; Lahti, Jouni; Lahelma, Eero; Rahkonen, Ossi
2015-11-01
The aim this study was to examine the effect of changes in physical and psychosocial working conditions on physical health functioning among ageing municipal employees. Follow-up survey data were collected from midlife employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland, at three time points: wave 1 (2000-2002), wave 2 (2007), and wave 3 (2012). Changes in physical and psychosocial working conditions were assessed between waves 1 and 2. Physical health functioning was measured by the physical component summary (PCS) of the Short-Form 36 questionnaire at each of the three waves. In total, 2784 respondents (83% women) who remained employed over the follow-up were available for the analyses. Linear mixed-effect models were used to assess the associations and adjust for key covariates (age, gender, obesity, chronic diseases, and health behaviors). Repeated and increased exposure to adverse physical working conditions was associated with greater decline in physical health functioning over time. In contrast, decrease in exposures reduced the decline. Of the psychosocial working conditions, changes in job demands had no effects on physical health functioning. However, decreased job control was associated with greater decline and repeated high or increased job control reduced the decline in physical health functioning over time. Adverse changes in physical working conditions and job control were associated with greater decline in physical health functioning over time, whereas favorable changes in these exposures reduced the decline. Preventing deterioration and promoting improvement of working conditions are likely to help maintain better physical health functioning among ageing employees.
Cokorilo, Nebojsa; Mikalacki, Milena; Satara, Goran; Cvetkovic, Milan; Marinkovic, Dragan; Zvekic-Svorcan, Jelena; Obradovic, Borislav
2018-03-30
Aerobic exercises to music can have a positive effect on functional and motor skills of an exerciser, their health, as well as an aesthetic and socio-psychological component. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of reactive exercising in a group on functional capabilities in physically active and physically inactive women. A prospective study included 64 healthy women aged 40-60 years. The sample was divided into the experimental group (n= 36), i.e. physically active women who have been engaged in recreational group exercises at the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Novi Sad, Serbia, and the control group (n= 28), which consisted of physically inactive women. All the participants were monitored using the same protocol before and after the implementation of the research. All women had their height, weight, body mass index measured as well as spiroergometric parameters determined according to the Bruce protocol. A univariate analysis of variance has shown that there is a statistically significant difference between the experimental group and the control group in maximum speed, the total duration of the test, relative oxygen consumption, absolute oxygen consumption and ventilation during the final measurement. After the training intervention, the experimental group showed improvements in all the parameters analyzed compared with pretest values. The recreational group exercise model significantly improves aerobic capacity and functioning of the cardiovascular system. Therefore, it is essential for women to be involved more in any form of recreational group exercising in order to improve functional capacity and health.
48 CFR 53.232 - Contract financing (SF 1443).
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-10-01
... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Contract financing (SF 1443). 53.232 Section 53.232 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (CONTINUED) CLAUSES AND FORMS FORMS Prescription of Forms 53.232 Contract financing (SF 1443). SF 1443 (JUL...
Mahdessian, Hovsep; Taxiarchis, Apostolos; Popov, Sergej; Silveira, Angela; Franco-Cereceda, Anders; Hamsten, Anders; Eriksson, Per; van't Hooft, Ferdinand
2014-01-01
Genome-wide association studies have identified a locus on chromosome 19 associated with plasma triglyceride (TG) concentration and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. However, the identity and functional role of the gene(s) responsible for these associations remain unknown. Of 19 expressed genes contained in this locus, none has previously been implicated in lipid metabolism. We performed gene expression studies and expression quantitative trait locus analysis in 206 human liver samples to identify the putative causal gene. Transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2), a gene with hitherto unknown function, expressed predominantly in liver and intestine, was identified as the putative causal gene. TM6SF2 encodes a protein of 351 amino acids with 7–10 predicted transmembrane domains. Otherwise, no other protein features were identified which could help to elucidate the function of TM6SF2. Protein subcellular localization studies with confocal microscopy demonstrated that TM6SF2 is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum and the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment of human liver cells. Functional studies for secretion of TG-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) and lipid droplet content were performed in human hepatoma Huh7 and HepG2 cells using confocal microscopy and siRNA inhibition and overexpression techniques. In agreement with the genome-wide association data, it was found that TM6SF2 siRNA inhibition was associated with reduced secretion of TRLs and increased cellular TG concentration and lipid droplet content, whereas TM6SF2 overexpression reduced liver cell steatosis. We conclude that TM6SF2 is a regulator of liver fat metabolism with opposing effects on the secretion of TRLs and hepatic lipid droplet content. PMID:24927523
Needham, Dale M; Dinglas, Victor D; Bienvenu, O Joseph; Colantuoni, Elizabeth; Wozniak, Amy W; Rice, Todd W; Hopkins, Ramona O
2013-03-19
To evaluate the effect of initial low energy permissive underfeeding ("trophic feeding") versus full energy enteral feeding ("full feeding") on physical function and secondary outcomes in patients with acute lung injury. Prospective longitudinal follow-up evaluation of the NHLBI ARDS Clinical Trials Network's EDEN trial 41hospitals in the United States. 525 patients with acute lung injury. Randomised assignment to trophic or full feeding for up to six days; thereafter, all patients still receiving mechanical ventilation received full feeding. Blinded assessment of the age and sex adjusted physical function domain of the SF-36 instrument at 12 months after acute lung injury. Secondary outcome measures included survival; physical, psychological, and cognitive functioning; quality of life; and employment status at six and 12 months. After acute lung injury, patients had substantial physical, psychological, and cognitive impairments, reduced quality of life, and impaired return to work. Initial trophic versus full feeding did not affect mean SF-36 physical function at 12 months (55 (SD 33) v 55 (31), P=0.54), survival to 12 months (65% v 63%, P=0.63), or nearly all of the secondary outcomes. In survivors of acute lung injury, there was no difference in physical function, survival, or multiple secondary outcomes at 6 and 12 month follow-up after initial trophic or full enteral feeding. NCT No 00719446.
48 CFR 36.602-3 - Evaluation board functions.
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-10-01
... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Evaluation board functions... Services 36.602-3 Evaluation board functions. Under the general direction of the head of the contracting activity, an evaluation board shall perform the following functions: (a) Review the current data files on...
Nichols, Thom R; Inglese, Gary W
2018-01-01
Body-altering surgery may affect perceptions of one's self. For those with abdominal stoma surgeries, altered perceptions amplified by peristomal skin condition can increase health burdens. To assess health utility and health-related quality of life in an adult US ostomy sample in the presence of three levels of peristomal skin condition: intact, moderately compromised, and severely compromised. The short form 36 health survey version 2, a generic health survey incorporating the six-dimensional health state short form preference-based utility index, was chosen to assess the sample. Analysis of covariance adjusted for age and time from surgery was used. The six-dimensional health state short form utilities for those with intact skin and physical component summary (PCS) levels indicating no physical limitations varied significantly from those with severely compromised skin and indicating the greatest degree of physical limitation (0.833 vs. 0.527). Peristomal skin condition decreases were associated with health utility decreases across all levels of the PCS. Because peristomal skin conditions are intermittent, the analysis presents quality-adjusted life-days (QALDs) per month. Ostomates with intact skin and PCS levels indicating no physical limitations demonstrated significant differences from those with severe skin condition and indicating the greatest degree of physical limitations (26.5 d/mo vs. 15.8 d/mo). As peristomal skin condition worsened, QALDs decreased across all levels of the PCS. A minimally important expected value of health was estimated to be an increase of 2.18 QALDs/mo. Successful treatment from a clinical perspective is more than the elimination of conditions-it is also a return of quality time to an individual. Copyright © 2018 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Huo, Tianyao; Guo, Yi; Shenkman, Elizabeth; Muller, Keith
2018-02-13
Although Short Form (SF)-12 × 2® has been extensively studied and used as a valid measure of health-related quality of life in a variety of population groups, no systematic studies have described the reliability of the measure in patients with behavioral conditions or serious mental illness (SMI). We assessed the internal consistency, split-half reliability and annual test-retest correlations in a sample of 1587 participants with either a combination of physical and behavioral conditions or SMI. The Mosier's alpha was 0.70 for the Physical Composite Scale (PCS) and 0.69 for the Mental Health Composite Scale (MCS), indicating good internal consistency. We observed strong correlations between physical functioning, physical role and body pain scales (r = 0.55-0.56), and between social functioning, emotional role, and mental health (r = 0.53-0.58). We calculated split-half reliabilities to be 0.74 for physical functioning, 0.75 for physical role, 0.73 for emotional role and 0.65 for mental health respectively. We assessed the annual test-retest correlation using intraclass correlation (ICC) and found an ICC of 0.61 for PCS and 0.57 for MCS composite scores, adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and CRG. We found no decline in the correlations between baseline and the following study years until year 3. Our results encourage using SF-12v2® to assess health-related quality of life in the Medicaid population with combined physical and behavioral conditions or similar cohorts. The WIN study was registered with clinicaltrials.gov on April 22, 2015. NCT02440906 . Retrospectively registered.
Saab, Sammy; Bownik, Hillary; Ayoub, Noel; Younossi, Zobair; Durazo, Francisco; Han, Steven; Hong, Johnny C; Farmer, Douglas; Busuttil, Ronald W
2011-05-01
One of the current ultimate goals of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is the improvement of patients' health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The purpose of this study was to look at the effects of socioeconomic and demographic differences on the short-term and long-term HRQOL outcomes of OLT recipients. Three hundred three adult OLT recipients who were seen at the University of California Los Angeles were administered the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36), the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ), and a demographic survey. A parsimonious model of 12 socioeconomic and demographic predictors was identified. Their simultaneous influence on each SF-36 and CLDQ HRQOL domain score was evaluated with multivariate linear regression and backward selection. Hepatitis C virus impaired HRQOL; this was shown in the SF-36 Vitality and Bodily Pain domains and in most CLDQ domains. Females experienced more HRQOL impairment only within the CLDQ Abdominal Symptoms domain. OLT recipients who were married had better SF-36 Role-Emotion domain scores. OLT recipients with more than 12 years of education had better SF-36 Physical Functioning scores. Employed OLT recipients had less HRQOL impairment; this was evidenced by better scores in multiple domains of the SF-36 and the CLDQ. OLT patients with health maintenance organization or preferred provider organization insurance had higher HRQOL scores within almost all SF-36 and CLDQ domains. Patients with a mix of public and private insurance had significantly higher HRQOL scores in comparison with those with only public insurance. Identifying patients at higher risk for worse HRQOL scores, less satisfaction with OLT results, and greater problems with fatigue or mental health stressors will assist transplant centers in using their medical teams to develop early interventions and multidisciplinary approaches to improve HRQOL outcomes after OLT. Copyright © 2011 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.
Chiba, Toshimi; Tokunaga, Yumi; Ikeda, Keisei; Takagi, Ryo; Chishima, Raita; Terui, Torahiko; Kudara, Norihiko; Endo, Masaki; Inomata, Masaaki; Orii, Seishi; Suzuki, Kazuyuki
2007-09-01
The effect of itopride hydrochloride or ranitidine on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of functional dyspepsia is not well known. Our aim was to assess the HRQoL before and after administration of itopride hydrochloride or ranitidine in patients with functional dyspepsia. A total of 18 functional dyspepsia patients (12 women, 6 men; mean age 52.5 y.o.) were enrolled. We determined the HRQoL using two different inquiry systems: the 36 item short form of the Medical Outcome Study Questionnaire (SF-36) and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS). The HRQoL was determined before administration of drug, and two, four, and eight weeks after administration of drug. After administration of itopride hydrochloride, the SF-36 mental health scale and GSRS indigestion syndrome score and constipation syndrome score were significantly improved compared to before administration (p < 0.05). After the administration of ranitidine, the GSRS reflux syndrome score was significantly improved compared to before administration (p < 0.05). Itopride hydrochloride would be useful for the treatment of dysmotility-type functional dyspepsia, whereas ranitidine would be beneficial for ulcer-type functional dyspepsia.
Assessing physical function and physical activity in patients with CKD.
Painter, Patricia; Marcus, Robin L
2013-05-01
Patients with CKD are characterized by low levels of physical functioning, which, along with low physical activity, predict poor outcomes in those treated with dialysis. The hallmark of clinical care in geriatric practice and geriatric research is the orientation to and assessment of physical function and functional limitations. Although there is increasing interest in physical function and physical activity in patients with CKD, the nephrology field has not focused on this aspect of care. This paper provides an in-depth review of the measurement of physical function and physical activity. It focuses on physiologic impairments and physical performance limitations (impaired mobility and functional limitations). The review is based on established frameworks of physical impairment and functional limitations that have guided research in physical function in the aging population. Definitions and measures for physiologic impairments, physical performance limitations, self-reported function, and physical activity are presented. On the basis of the information presented, recommendations for incorporating routine assessment of physical function and encouragement for physical activity in clinical care are provided.
Haugland, Trude; Vatn, Morten H; Veenstra, Marijke; Wahl, Astrid Klopstad; Natvig, Gerd Karin
2009-08-01
Health related quality of life (HRQoL) was characterized among patients with neuroendocrine tumor (NET) and compared with the general Norwegian population. A cross sectional, comparative design was chosen, and the samples comprised 196 NET patients and 5,258 individuals from the general Norwegian population. We used Chi-square cross tab calculations to evaluate sociodemographic characteristics, T-tests for independent samples and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in order to compare HRQoL (SF-36) scores across a range of background variables. Furthermore, T-tests were used to analyze differences in HRQoL scores between the samples. NET patients demonstrated significantly lower on all HRQoL subscales when compared with the general population with the lowest values on general health, physical limitation and vitality. Individuals above 70 years reported lower scores on physical functioning and physical limitations compared with those who were younger. Individuals with higher levels of education reported increased physical functioning compared with those with less education and full-time or part-time workers described higher physical functioning and less physical limitations compared with those who were retired. All SF-36 HRQoL scores were significantly lower among the NET patients when compared with the general population. Assistance from health personnel to NET patients should focus on those domains.
Infectivity of Sf-rhabdovirus variants in insect and mammalian cell lines.
Maghodia, Ajay B; Jarvis, Donald L
2017-12-01
Sf-rhabdovirus was only recently identified as an adventitious agent of Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf) cell lines used as hosts for baculovirus vectors. As such, we still know little about its genetic variation, infectivity, and the potential impact of variation on the Sf-rhabdovirus-host interaction. Here, we characterized Sf-rhabdoviruses from two widely used Sf cell lines to confirm and extend information on Sf-rhabdovirus variation. We then used our novel Sf-rhabdovirus-negative (Sf-RVN) Sf cell line to assess the infectivity of variants with and without a 320bp X/L deletion and found both established productive persistent infections in Sf-RVN cells. We also assessed their infectivity using heterologous insect and mammalian cell lines and found neither established productive persistent infections in these cells. These results are the first to directly demonstrate Sf-rhabdoviruses are infectious for Sf cells, irrespective of the X/L deletion. They also confirm and extend previous results indicating Sf-rhabdoviruses have a narrow host range. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Zhang, Xiaona; Chen, Gang; Xu, Feng; Zhou, Kaina; Zhuang, Guihua
2016-01-01
After validation of the widely used health-related quality of life (HRQOL) generic measure, the Short Form 36 version 2 (SF-36v2), we investigated the HRQOL and associated factors of frontline railway workers in China. Ground workers, conductors, and train drivers were selected from Ankang Precinct by using a stratified cluster sampling technique. A total of 784 frontline railway workers participated in the survey. The reliability and validity of SF-36v2 was satisfactory. The physical component summary (PCS) scores of three subgroups attained the average range for the USA general population, whereas the mental component summary (MCS) scores were well below the range. Most domains scored below the norm, except for the physical functioning (PF) domain. Among three subgroups, train drivers reported significantly lower scores on MCS and six health domains (excluding PF and bodily pain (BP)). After controlled confounders, conductors had significantly higher PCS and MCS scores than ground workers. There is heterogeneity on risk factors among three subgroups, but having long or irregular working schedules was negatively associated with HRQOL in all subgroups. SF-36v2 is a reliable and valid HRQOL measurement in railway workers in China. The frontline railway workers’ physical health was comparative to American norms, whilst mental health was relatively worse. Long or irregular working schedules were the most important factors. PMID:27916919
Verrill, David; Barton, Cole; Beasley, Will; Lippard, W Michael
2005-08-01
The purposes of this study were as follows: (1) to determine whether physical performance, quality of life, and dyspnea with activities of daily living improved following both short-term and long-term pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) across multiple hospital outpatient programs; (2) to examine the differences in these parameters between men and women; and (3) to determine what relationships existed between the psychosocial parameters and the results of the 6-min walk (6MW) test performance across programs. Non-experimental, prospective, and comparative. Seven outpatient hospital PR programs from urban and rural settings across North Carolina. Three hundred nine women and 281 men who were 20 to 93 years of age (mean [+/- SD] age, 66.7 +/- 11.1 years) with chronic lung disease. All 6MW tests and health surveys were administered prior to and immediately following 12 and 24 weeks of supervised PR participation. Scores from the 6MW tests, the Ferrans and Powers quality of life index-pulmonary version III (QLI), the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item short form (SF-36), and the University of California at San Diego shortness of breath questionnaire (SOBQ) were compared at PR entry, at 12 weeks, and at 24 weeks for differences by gender with repeated-measures analysis of variance. The study entry and follow-up SF-36 physical and mental component summary scores, the QLI health/function and overall scores, and the SOBQ scores were also compared to the 6MW test scores with Pearson correlation coefficient analysis. The mean summary scores on the SF-36 and the QLI increased after 12 weeks of PR (p < 0.05), and improvements were maintained by 24 weeks of PR participation (p < 0.05). Scores on the SOBQ improved after 12 weeks (p < 0.001) among the short-term participants, but not until after 24 weeks among the long-term participants (p = 0.009). The 6MW test performance improved after 12 weeks (p < 0.001) and again from 12 to 24 weeks (p = 0.002) in the long-term participants. No
Multidisciplinary and biodanza intervention for the management of fibromyalgia.
Carbonell-Baeza, Ana; Ruiz, Jonatan R; Aparicio, Virginia A; Martins-Pereira, Clelia M; Gatto-Cardia, M Claudia; Martinez, Jose M; Ortega, Francisco B; Delgado-Fernandez, Manuel
2012-01-01
To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of a 16-week multidisciplinary (exercise plus psychological therapy) and biodanza intervention in women with fibromyalgia. Thirty-eight women with fibromyalgia were distributed to a 16-week multidisciplinary (3-times/week) intervention (n=21) or Biodanza (1-time/week) intervention (n=17). We assessed tender point, body composition, physical fitness and psychological outcomes (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, the Short-Form Health Survey 36 questionnaire (SF-36), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Vanderbilt Pain Management Inventory (VPMI), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and General Self-Efficacy Scale). We observed a significant group*time interaction effect for the scales of SF-36 physical role (P=0.038) and social functioning (P=0.030) and for the passive coping scale in VPMI (P=0.043). Post hoc analysis revealed a significant improvement on social functioning (P=0.030) in the multidisciplinary group whereas it did not change in the Biodanza group. Post hoc analysis revealed a reduction in the use of passive coping (positive) (P less than 0.001) in the multidisciplinary group. There was no significant interaction or time effect in body composition and physical fitness. 16 weeks of multidisciplinary intervention induced greater benefits than a Biodanza intervention for social functioning and the use of passive coping strategies in women with fibromyalgia.
Nawrocka, Agnieszka; Mynarski, Władysław; Cholewa, Jarosław
2017-12-23
Physical activity is an important factor in maintaining the health and functional fitness of elderly people. The aim of the study was to determine the number of senior women meeting the physical activity guidelines, and their level of functional fitness in comparison to women who are not sufficiently physically active. The study involved 61 women, aged 60-75. Physical activity was monitored on seven consecutive days of the week, using a triaxial accelerometer ActiGraph GT3X. Results of the assessment of physical activity were verified against the Global Recommendations of Physical Activity for Health. The Senior Fitness Test (Fullerton Test) was used to evaluate functional fitness. In the studied group, 36.1% achieved the recommended level of physical activity. All those examined mainly undertook physical activity of low intensity. Vigorous physical activity during the week was noted in only 6 seniors. Women who met the recommendations of physical activity achieved significantly better results in test trials, e.g. Chair Stands, Up and Go, Six Minute Step Test. Adherence to physical activity guidelines was associated with better functional fitness of older women. However, less than half of the examined seniors met the Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health.
Klebanoff, L. E.; Pratt, J. W.; LaFleur, C. B.
2016-11-25
Here, we review liquid hydrogen (LH 2) as a maritime vessel fuel, from descriptions of its fundamental properties to its practical application and safety aspects, in the context of the San Francisco Bay Renewable Energy Electric Vessel with Zero Emissions (SF-BREEZE) high-speed fuel-cell ferry. Since marine regulations have been formulated to cover liquid natural gas (LNG) as a primary propulsion fuel, we frame our examination of LH 2 as a comparison to LNG, for both maritime use in general, and the SF-BREEZE in particular. Due to weaker attractions between molecules, LH 2 is colder than LNG, and evaporates more easily.more » We describe the consequences of these physical differences for the size and duration of spills of the two cryogenic fuels. The classical flammability ranges are reviewed, with a focus on how fuel buoyancy modifies these combustion limits. We examine the conditions for direct fuel explosion (detonation) and contrast them with initiation of normal (laminar) combustion. Direct fuel detonation is not a credible accident scenario for the SF-BREEZE. For both fuels, we review experiments and theory elucidating the deflagration to detonation transition (DDT). LH 2 fires have a shorter duration than energy-equivalent LNG fires, and produce significantly less thermal radiation. The thermal (infrared) radiation from hydrogen fires is also strongly absorbed by humidity in the air. Hydrogen permeability is not a leak issue for practical hydrogen plumbing. We describe the chemistry of hydrogen and methane at iron surfaces, clarifying their impact on steel-based hydrogen storage and transport materials. These physical, chemical and combustion properties are pulled together in a comparison of how a LH 2 or LNG pool fire on the Top Deck of the SF-BREEZE might influence the structural integrity of the aluminum deck. Neither pool fire scenario leads to net heating of the aluminum decking. Overall, LH 2 and LNG are very similar in their physical and combustion
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Klebanoff, L. E.; Pratt, J. W.; LaFleur, C. B.
Here, we review liquid hydrogen (LH 2) as a maritime vessel fuel, from descriptions of its fundamental properties to its practical application and safety aspects, in the context of the San Francisco Bay Renewable Energy Electric Vessel with Zero Emissions (SF-BREEZE) high-speed fuel-cell ferry. Since marine regulations have been formulated to cover liquid natural gas (LNG) as a primary propulsion fuel, we frame our examination of LH 2 as a comparison to LNG, for both maritime use in general, and the SF-BREEZE in particular. Due to weaker attractions between molecules, LH 2 is colder than LNG, and evaporates more easily.more » We describe the consequences of these physical differences for the size and duration of spills of the two cryogenic fuels. The classical flammability ranges are reviewed, with a focus on how fuel buoyancy modifies these combustion limits. We examine the conditions for direct fuel explosion (detonation) and contrast them with initiation of normal (laminar) combustion. Direct fuel detonation is not a credible accident scenario for the SF-BREEZE. For both fuels, we review experiments and theory elucidating the deflagration to detonation transition (DDT). LH 2 fires have a shorter duration than energy-equivalent LNG fires, and produce significantly less thermal radiation. The thermal (infrared) radiation from hydrogen fires is also strongly absorbed by humidity in the air. Hydrogen permeability is not a leak issue for practical hydrogen plumbing. We describe the chemistry of hydrogen and methane at iron surfaces, clarifying their impact on steel-based hydrogen storage and transport materials. These physical, chemical and combustion properties are pulled together in a comparison of how a LH 2 or LNG pool fire on the Top Deck of the SF-BREEZE might influence the structural integrity of the aluminum deck. Neither pool fire scenario leads to net heating of the aluminum decking. Overall, LH 2 and LNG are very similar in their physical and combustion
Jeffery, Diana D.; Barbera, Lisa; Andersen, Barbara L.; Siston, Amy K.; Jhingran, Anuja; Baron, Shirley R.; Reese, Jennifer Barsky; Coady, Deborah J.; Carter, Jeanne; Flynn, Kathryn E.
2016-01-01
Background A systematic review was conducted to identify and characterize self-reported sexual function (SF) measures administered to women with a history of cancer. Methods Using 2009 PRISMA guidelines, we searched electronic bibliographic databases for quantitative studies published January 2008–September 2014 that used a self-reported measure of SF, or a quality of life (QOL) measure that contained at least one item pertaining to SF. Results Of 1,487 articles initially identified, 171 were retained. The studies originated in 36 different countries with 23% from U.S.-based authors. Most studies focused on women treated for breast, gynecologic, or colorectal cancer. About 70% of the articles examined SF as the primary focus; the remaining examined QOL, menopausal symptoms, or compared treatment modalities. We identified 37 measures that assessed at least one domain of SF, eight of which were dedicated SF measures developed with cancer patients. Almost one-third of the studies used EORTC QLQ modules to assess SF, and another third used the Female Sexual Function Inventory. There were few commonalities among studies, though nearly all demonstrated worse SF after cancer treatment or compared to healthy controls. Conclusions QOL measures are better suited to screening while dedicated SF questionnaires provide data for more in depth assessment. This systematic review will assist oncology clinicians and researchers in their selection of measures of SF and encourage integration of this quality of life domain in patient care. PMID:25997102