The Coronavirus Anxiety Scale: Cross-national measurement invariance and convergent validity evidence.

Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) is a widely used measure that captures somatic symptoms of coronavirus-related anxiety. In a large-scale collaboration spanning 60 countries (Ntotal = 21,513), we examined the CAS's measurement invariance and assessed the convergent validity of CAS scores in relation to the fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19S) and the satisfaction with life (SWLS-3) scales. We utilized both conventional exact invariance tests and alignment procedures, with results revealing that the single-factor model fit the data well in almost all countries. Partial scalar invariance was supported in a subset of 56 countries. To ensure the robustness of results, given the unbalanced samples, we employed resampling techniques both with and without replacement and found the results were more stable in larger samples. The alignment procedure demonstrated a high degree of measurement invariance with 9% of the parameters exhibiting noninvariance. We also conducted simulations of alignment using the parameters estimated in the current model. Findings demonstrated reliability of the means but indicated challenges in estimating the latent variances. Strong positive correlations between CAS and FCV-19S estimated with all three different approaches were found in most countries. Correlations of CAS and SWLS-3 were weak and negative but significantly differed from zero in several countries. Overall, the study provided support for the measurement invariance of the CAS and offered evidence of its convergent validity while also highlighting issues with variance estimation. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Fear of relapse and quality of life in multiple sclerosis: The mediating role of psychological resilience.

The goal of this study was to examine the mediating role of psychological resilience in the relationship between fear of relapse and quality of life in a sample of patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). This cross-sectional study was developed online. A total of 240 PwMS were surveyed using the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life inventory, the Fear of Relapse Scale and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. To perform the mediation analysis PROCESS macro was used. In our study, fear of relapse was a predictor of psychological resilience and quality of life, and psychological resilience was a predictor of quality of life. Finally, psychological resilience showed a mediating role in the relationship between fear of relapse and quality of life. Considering that resilience is a modifiable variable, the implementation of interventions aimed at enhancing resilience can have a favorable impact on the psychological well-being and quality of life of patients with multiple sclerosis.

Correction to: Gender and Fear of COVID-19 in a Cuban Population Sample.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00343-8.].

Conocimiento sobre factores protectores y de riesgo en las demencias

Introducción: La exploración de creencias y conocimientos sobre la demencia y su prevención permite conocer las concepciones erróneas sobre la salud cerebral y cognitiva, el conocimiento de los factores de riesgo para la demencia y las acciones implementadas por la población general para prevenir el declive cognitivo. La determinación de los factores protectores o de riesgo, permite el diseño de intervenciones encaminadas a potenciar el conocimiento sobre la prevención de las demencias. Objetivo: Explorar la evidencia disponible acerca de los factores protectores y de riesgo que tienen un impacto sobre la demencia y que incrementan o reducen el riesgo de desarrollarla; así como el nivel de conocimiento existente en el público general sobre la demencia y su prevención. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica y documental en fuentes de datos digitales. Para la búsqueda se utilizaron, en inglés y español, las siguientes palabras clave: "conocimiento público sobre demencia", "factores protectores", "factores de riesgo", "prevención de demencia". Las consultas se realizaron en Scopus, EBSCO Health, PubMed (buscador), SciELO y PsycINFO. Conclusiones: La evidencia acumulada hasta la fecha sobre algunos factores, tales como dieta, nivel de colesterol, hipertensión, obesidad, depresión, inactividad física y cognitiva, y hábito de fumar, sustentan la importancia del estilo de vida en la prevención de las demencias. Las investigaciones sugieren que el conocimiento sobre el potencial para la prevención de la demencia es pobre, por lo que se hacen necesarios programas que incrementen el conocimiento público sobre la demencia y qué hacer para prevenirla.

Introduction: The exploration of beliefs and knowledge about dementia and its prevention provides insight into misconceptions about brain and cognitive health, as well as knowledge about the risk factors for dementia and regarding actions implemented by the general population to prevent cognitive decline. The determination of protective or risk factors allows the design of interventions aimed at enhancing knowledge about dementia prevention. Objective: To explore the available evidence about the protective and risk factors that have an impact on dementia and that increase or reduce the risk of developing it; as well as the level of existing knowledge among the general public about dementia and its prevention. Methods: A literature and document review was carried out in digital data sources. The following keywords, in English and Spanish, were used for the search: conocimiento público sobre demencia [public knowledge about dementia], factores protectores [protective factors], factores de riesgo [risk factors], prevención de demencia [dementia prevention]. The consultations were performed in Scopus, EBSCO Health, PubMed (search engine), SciELO and PsycINFO. Conclusions: Up to date, the accumulated evidence about some factors, such as diet, cholesterol level, hypertension, obesity, depression, physical and cognitive inactivity, and smoking support the importance of lifestyle in dementia prevention. Research suggests that knowledge about the potential for dementia prevention is poor; therefore, programs are needed to increase public knowledge about dementia and about what to do to prevent it.

Respuesta al tratamiento con Interferón beta-1a en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente / Response to treatment with Interferon beta-1a in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

RESUMEN Fundamento: los fármacos modificadores, en la esclerosis múltiple, tienen la finalidad de reducir la frecuencia de recaídas, retardar la progresión de la discapacidad, así como la aparición de nuevas lesiones en el Sistema Nervioso Central. Objetivo determinar los indicadores precoces de respuesta al tratamiento con IFNb-1ª en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente. Métodos: estudio observacional, analítico de cohorte con prospectiva longitudinal en los pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis múltiple. Se conformaron dos cohortes de estudio, cada una con 39 pacientes. Resultados: la media y desviación estándar de la escala ampliada del estado de discapacidad a los 36 meses fue de 2.37 ± 1.86 en el grupo estudio y en el control de 3.15 ± 2.1. En los brotes de .13 ± .33 en el grupo estudio y en el grupo control de .41 ± .59. Las lesiones nuevas en T2 tras los 12 primeros meses de tratamiento fue de 0.90 ± 1.16 para el grupo estudio y para el control de 1 ± 1.10. La progresión por escala ampliada del estado de discapacidad, la tasa anualizada de brotes antes del tratamiento, la edad de inicio de la enfermedad, tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad y lesiones que realzan gadolinio se asociaron de forma significativa con la razón de ventaja de mayor probabilidad de no progresión para el grupo estudio con respecto al grupo control por la variable combinada progresión por escala ampliada del estado de discapacidad y brotes. Conclusiones: se identificaron indicadores precoces de respuesta al tratamiento con el interferón beta-1a, que ayudan a valorar la respuesta al tratamiento de forma precoz, lo que repercute de forma positiva en la evolución de la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Background: multiple sclerosis modifying drugs are intended to reduce the frequency of relapses, delay the progression of disability, as well as the appearance of new lesions in the Central Nervous System. Objective: to determine the early indicators of response to treatment with IFNb-1a. Methods: Observational, analytical longitudinal prospective cohort study in patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Two study cohorts were formed, each with 39 patients. Results the mean and standard deviation of the expanded disability status scale at 36 months was 2.37 ± 1.86 in the study group and 3.15 ± 2.1 in the control group. In the outbreaks of .13 ± .33 in the study group and in the control group of .41 ± .59. New lesions in T2 after the first 12 months of treatment was 0.90 ± 1.16 for the study group and 1 ± 1.10 for the control. Extended-scale progression of disability status, pretreatment annualized relapse rate, age of disease onset, time since disease progression, and gadolinium-enhancing lesions were significantly associated with the odds ratio of older Probability of non-progression for the study group with respect to the control group for the combined variable progression by extended disability status scale and relapses. Conclusions: early indicators of response to treatment with interferon beta-1a were identified; that help assess the response to treatment early, which has a positive impact on the evolution of the disease.

Neurorrestauración integral en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente: estudio piloto / Comprehensive neurorestoration in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a pilot study

Introducción: La neurorrestauración integral en la esclerosis múltiple mejora los déficits funcionales. Dentro de la atención de las personas con la enfermedad, se ha incluido la valoración de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud, que es un elemento clave para la evaluación subjetiva de las influencias del estado de salud actual. Objetivo: Determinar la influencia de la neurorrestauración integral en la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud de los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasi-experimental en 78 pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente, tratados en el Hospital Universitario Clínico-quirúrgico Arnaldo Milián Castro de Santa Clara, en el periodo comprendido entre enero de 2014 a diciembre de 2020. Los pacientes se distribuyeron aleatoriamente en un grupo estudio y un grupo control, asignados por sorteo. Resultados: En cuanto a las actividades de la vida diaria mostró una media al final de la intervención de 95,89 para el grupo estudio; y para el grupo control de 81,28. Posterior a la intervención se evidenció una mejoría del funcionamiento de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud del grupo estudio en los componentes de la escala en comparación con los controles. Conclusiones: se determinó como el desarrollo de intervenciones promueven el mayor bienestar posible de los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente a través de la neurorrestauración integral(AU)

Introduction: Comprehensive neurorestoration in Multiple Sclerosis improves functional deficits. The assessment of health-related quality of life, which is a key element for the subjective evaluation of the influences of the current state of health, has been included in the care of people with the disease. Objective: To determine the influence of comprehensive neurorestoration on the health-related quality of life of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Material and Methods: A quasi-experimental study was carried out in 78 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treated at the "Arnaldo Milián Castro" Clinical-Surgical University Hospital in Santa Clara, in the period between January 2014 and December 2020. The patients were randomly assigned to a study group and a control group. Results: Regarding activities of daily living, the study group showed a mean of 95.89 at the end of the intervention, while the control group showed a mean of 81.28. After the intervention, an improvement in the functioning of the health-related quality of life of the study group was evidenced in the components of the scale, compared with the controls. Conclusions: It was determined that the development of interventions through comprehensive neurorestoration promote the best possible well-being of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis(AU)

Validity and reliability of the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10) in a sample of Spanish-speaking patients with Multiple Sclerosis.

BACKGROUND: It is urgent to increase studies aimed at exploring and understanding the role that psychological resilience plays in PwMS. To achieve this objective, an important requirement is to have properly validated instruments that allow exploring psychological resilience in MS patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the 10-item CD-RISC in a sample of Spanish-speaking patients with MS (PwMS). METHODS: An online multicenter study was conducted on 214 MS patients from 11 Spanish-speaking countries (Argentina, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Chile, Spain, Cuba, Colombia, Uruguay, Paraguay, Peru, and El Salvador). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to assess the factor structure of the 10-item CD-RISC. Model fits were assessed through the χ2/df value, comparative fit index (CFI), and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA). RESULTS: The 10-item CD-RISC showed good psychometric characteristics in our sample of PwMS. The single-factor model in the CFA yielded a good model fit (χ2=99.380(35), p<.001; χ2/df = 2.83; RMSEA=.090; CFI=.92). Cronbach's alpha of the CD-RISC-10 items version (Spanish version) was .88. The CD-RISC-10 was significantly correlated with quality of life scale (r = .420, p < .001), fear of relapse scale (r = -.327, p < .001), and fatigue scale (r = -.367, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The CD-RISC-10 has satisfactory psychometric properties and is a suitable tool for measuring resilience in Spanish-speaking patients with multiple sclerosis.

Efectividad del tratamiento neurorrehabilitador integral en la función cognitiva de los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente recurrente

RESUMEN Fundamento: las alternativas terapéuticas en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple no deben centrar sus esfuerzos en la rehabilitación de dominios cognitivos específicos, sino valorar el empleo de estrategias de intervención multimodal, con el propósito de minimizar los factores negativos que intervienen en la salud cognitiva de estos. Objetivo: determinar la efectividad del tratamiento neurorrehabilitador integral en la función cognitiva de los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente recurrente. Métodos: se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental con dos grupos (un grupo estudio y un grupo control) en pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis múltiple remitente recurrente. Cada grupo quedó conformado por 39 pacientes. Los métodos estadísticos exigieron la utilización de un estudio de pruebas repetidas, variante de ANOVA. Para las pruebas de dos momentos se utilizó el concepto de ANOVA de un factor. Resultados: después de la intervención se obtuvo en el grupo de estudio, un aumento de las puntuaciones en las pruebas de velocidad de procesamiento, memoria de trabajo-flexibilidad cognitiva, fluidez verbal y el control inhibitorio; así como disminución en los niveles de fatiga. Se comprobó una mejoría significativa en el estado emocional del grupo de estudio, pues hubo disminución del estado de ansiedad y depresión. Conclusiones: el proceso de neurorrehabilitación integral resultó efectivo al disminuir en los pacientes los niveles de depresión y ansiedad, además de mejorar el funcionamiento cognitivo en el grupo de pacientes que completó el proceso, lo que muestra la viabilidad de un enfoque de neurorrehabilitación integral y su utilidad para mejorar la calidad de vida en adultos con esclerosis múltiple.

ABSTRACT Background: Therapeutic alternatives should not focus their efforts on the rehabilitation of specific cognitive domains, but value the use of multimodal intervention strategies, with the purpose of minimizing the negative factors that intervene in the cognitive health of patients with multiple sclerosis. Objective: to determine the effectiveness of comprehensive neurorehabilitation treatment on the cognitive function of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Methods: a quasi-experimental study was carried out with two groups (a study group and a control group) in patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Each group was made up of 39 patients. Statistical methods required the use of a repeated test study, variant of ANOVA. For the two-moment tests, the one-way ANOVA concept was used. Results: after the intervention, in the study group, an increase in the scores in the tests of processing speed, working memory-cognitive flexibility, verbal fluency and inhibitory control was obtained; as well as decreased levels of fatigue. A significant improvement in the emotional state of the study group was verified, showing a decrease in the state of anxiety and depression. Conclusions: the comprehensive neurorehabilitation process was effective in reducing depression and anxiety levels in patients, in addition to improving cognitive functioning in the group of patients who completed the process, which shows the viability of a comprehensive neurorehabilitation approach and its effectiveness utility to improve quality of life in adults with multiple sclerosis.

Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple

RESUMEN Fundamento: la esclerosis múltiple es una enfermedad que se caracteriza por brotes de discapacidad en cualquier sistema funcional que son producidos por inflamación y desmielinización del sistema nervioso central. Objetivo: determinar la calidad de vida relacionada con salud en pacientes con esclerosis múltiple. Métodos: estudio cuasi-experimental, prospectivo longitudinal con todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis múltiple con seguimiento en Villa Clara durante el periodo del 2017 al 2019. La población de estudio quedó constituida por 86 pacientes que formaron parte de una estrategia para el seguimiento multidisciplinario de estos. Resultados: en cuanto a las modificaciones del componente mental y físico del estado de salud se observó que la media de la puntuación fue 30,4 ± 9,7 y 39,9 ± 10,2 respectivamente antes de la estrategia y 38,8 ± 9,3 y 51,5 ± 9,3 después respectivamente; por lo que se movieron hacia niveles superiores. En la escala de impacto del deterioro visual la media fue 10,8 ± 2,2 antes y 7,1 ± 2,8 después. En cuanto a las modificaciones en el inventario de salud mental fue 58,1 ± 14,8 antes y 47,2 ± 15,1 después. Hubo mejoría en impacto de la fatiga; efecto del dolor; satisfacción sexual; control vesical; control intestinal; impacto del deterioro visual; déficit cognitivo percibido; salud mental y apoyo social. Conclusiones: se lograron modificaciones satisfactorias en la escala calidad de vida percibida, en los componentes estado mental y físico de salud, por lo que hubo mejoría de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud.

ABSTRACT Background: multiple sclerosis is a disease characterized by outbreaks of disability in any functional system that are produced by inflammation and demyelination of the central nervous system. Objective: to determine the health-related quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis. Methods: a quasi-experimental, prospective longitudinal study with all patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis with follow-up in Villa Clara during the period from 2017 to 2019. The study population consisted of 86 patients who were part of a multidisciplinary follow-up strategy. Results: regarding the modifications of the mental and physical component of the health state, it was observed that the mean score was 30.4 ± 9.7 and 39.9 ± 10.2 respectively before the strategy and 38.8 ± 9.3 and 51.5 ± 9.3 later respectively; so they moved to higher levels. On the visual impairment impact scale, the mean was 10.8 ± 2.2 before and 7.1 ± 2.8 after. Regarding the modifications in the mental health inventory, it was 58.1 ± 14.8 before and 47.2 ± 15.1 after. There was improvement in the impact of fatigue; pain effect; sexual satisfaction; bladder control; bowel control; impact of visual impairment; perceived cognitive deficit; mental health and social support. Conclusions: satisfactory modifications were achieved in the perceived quality of life scale, in the mental and physical health components, for which there was an improvement in health-related quality of life.

Gender and Fear of COVID-19 in a Cuban Population Sample.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health emergency that could potentially have a serious impact on public health. Fear has been one of the most frequent psychological reaction in the population during the current pandemic. The aim of this study was to compare fear of COVID-19 between genders and to examine whether the differences between genders may be predictors of fear of COVID-19 scores. A cross-sectional web-based survey design was adopted. The sample comprised 772 Cuban participants. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale was used to explore fear reactions in the sample. An independent-samples t test was conducted to compare the fear of COVID-19 scores between genders, and multinomial logistic regression was modeling to identify variables independently associated with fear of coronavirus. In our sample, on average, female participants experienced significantly greater fear of COVID-19 than men. The gender of participants significantly predicted the level of fear of COVID-19. Being female was a predictor of medium and high levels of fear of COVID-19. The odds of a female with middle fear levels compared to low fear was 3.13 times more than for a male, and the odds of a female with high fear levels compared to low fear was 3.45 times more than for a male. Our results corroborate international research that indicate a greater psychological vulnerability in women during the COVID-19 pandemic. This result points to the need to design interventions that reduce the negative impact of the current outbreak on women's mental health.

Adaptation of the Cuban version of the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale.

This study explores the psychometric properties of the Cuban version of Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS). The sample comprised 376 Cuban participants. Concurrent validity and reliability were examined. A confirmatory factor analysis was performed. The CAS showed excellent psychometric characteristics. The internal consistency was very good (α = 0.88). There was a positive correlation between the CAS and the FCV-19S and an inverse association between anxiety and self-perceived quality of health. The results confirmed the presence of a single factor. The CAS is a valid and reliable instrument to explore the experience of anxiety in the Cuban population.

Evolución clínica de pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente- recurrente tratados con interferón beta-1a / Clinical evolution of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treated with interferon beta-1a

RESUMEN Introducción: El inicio de la terapia con interferón ha sido y es el primer paso en el tratamiento de muchos pacientes con esclerosis múltiple, con el propósito de retrasar la progresión de la enfermedad. Objetivo: Identificar los marcadores clínicos de respuesta al tratamiento con interferón beta-1a de pacientes con esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, longitudinal, prospectivo, de una serie de casos de pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente, que recibían tratamiento con interferón beta-1a, en el periodo comprendido entre enero del 2014 a diciembre del 2020. Se incluyeron los 39 pacientes. Resultados: La media de edad fue de 34,54 años. La media del nivel de discapacidad en la línea base, 12, 24 y a los 36 meses fue de 1,76; 1,91; 2,1 y 2,37 respectivamente. La media de los brotes en la línea base, 12, 24 y a los 36 meses fue de 1,13; 0,26; 0,38 y 0,13 respectivamente. Se muestra la cifra de progresiones inferior en un 51 % a los 36 meses. La razón de ventajas (odds ratio) para la no presencia de brotes se muestra entre 2 y 4 veces en estos pacientes. Conclusiones: Se identifican marcadores clínicos de respuesta al tratamiento con interferón beta-1a que ayudan a valorar la respuesta al tratamiento, lo cual repercute de forma positiva en la evolución de la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The initiation of interferon therapy has been and is the first step in the treatment of many patients with multiple sclerosis, with the aim of delaying the progression of the disease. Objective: To identify the clinical markers of response to treatment with Interferon beta-1a in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Methods: An observational, descriptive, longitudinal, prospective study was carried out of a series of cases of patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, who received treatment with interferon beta-1a, in the period between January 2014 and December 2020. All 39 patients were included. Results: The mean age was 34.54 years. The mean disability level at baseline, 12, 24, and 36 months was 1.76; 1.91; 2.1 and 2.37 respectively. The mean number of flares at baseline, 12, 24, and 36 months was 1.13; 0.26; 0.38 and 0.13 respectively. The number of progressions lower by 51% at 36 months is shown. The odds ratio for the absence of relapses is between 2 and 4 times in these patients. Conclusions: Clinical markers of response to treatment with Interferon beta-1a are identified that help assess the response to treatment, which has a positive impact on the evolution of the disease.

Esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente en el contexto de la salud pública de Villa Clara / Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in the context of public health in Villa Clara

RESUMEN Fundamento: no se dispone de una información científica con representatividad nacional sobre la esclerosis múltiple, aspecto importante no solo para el control epidemiológico, sino también para la superación actualizada en términos de educación médica y en relación con proyectos gerenciales, por el alto costo que genera el tratamiento de la enfermedad. Objetivo: caracterizar desde el punto de vista epidemiológico, clínico e imagenológico los pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis múltiple remitente-recurrente en Villa Clara durante el periodo enero 2014 a diciembre 2020. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal, con enfoque cuantitativo en pacientes atendidos en la consulta multidisciplinaria de esclerosis múltiple del Hospital Universitario Clínico-Quirúrgico "Arnaldo Milián Castro" de Villa Clara. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos, empíricos y matemático-estadísticos. Resultados: se apreció que 57 pacientes fueron mujeres y 66 caucásicos. La edad de debut de la enfermedad para ambos grupos es 39,71 ± 9,86 años. Los años de evolución de la enfermedad muestran una media con desviación estándar de 9,77 ± 5,36 años. Las manifestaciones clínicas iniciales fueron: motor, sensitivo y neuritis óptica. En cuanto al número de lesiones detectadas por neuroimágenes fue de 11.58 ± 1.59. Presentaron presencia de bandas oligoclonales y síntesis de IgG para un 57.7 % y 83.3 % en toda la muestra de estudio respectivamente. Conclusiones: se caracterizó multidisciplinariamente a los pacientes lo que posiciona los resultados como novedosos en el entorno nacional e internacional; se aportan datos relevantes en aras de incrementar los conocimientos e información actualizada acerca de la enfermedad referida en Villa Clara.

ABSTRACT Background: there is no nationally representative scientific information on multiple sclerosis, an important aspect not only for epidemiological control, but also updating improvement in terms of medical education and in relation to management projects, due to the high cost the treatment of the disease generates. Objective: to characterize from the epidemiological, clinical and imaging point of view the patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in Villa Clara from January 2014 to December 2020. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was carried out in patients treated at the multidisciplinary consultation for multiple sclerosis of the "Arnaldo Milián Castro" Clinical-Surgical University Hospital in Villa Clara. Theoretical, empirical and mathematical-statistical methods were used. Results: it was observed that 57 patients were women and 66 Caucasian. The age of onset of the disease for both groups is 39.71 ± 9.86 years. The years of evolution of the disease show a mean standard deviation of 9.77 ± 5.36 years. The initial clinical manifestations were: motor, sensory and optic neuritis. Regarding the number of lesions detected by neuroimaging, it was 11.58 ± 1.59. They presented the presence of oligoclonal bands and IgG synthesis for 57.7% and 83.3% in the entire study sample, respectively. Conclusions: the patients were characterized in a multidisciplinary way, which positions the results as novel in the national and international environment; relevant data is provided in order to increase knowledge and updated information about the disease referred to in Villa Clara.

Perfil epidemiológico, clínico e imagenológico de la esclerosis múltiple

RESUMEN Fundamento: la esclerosis múltiple es una enfermedad desmielinizante neurológica, autoinmune, degenerativa, crónica y progresiva, asociada a diferentes factores genéticos y medioambientales. Objetivo: caracterizar epidemiológica, clínica e imagenológicamente a los pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis múltiple. Métodos: estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal sobre todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de esclerosis múltiple con seguimiento en el Hospital Provincial Clínico-Quirúrgico Universitario Arnaldo Milián Castro, de Villa Clara durante el periodo de enero del 2014 a diciembre del 2019. Se analizaron las variables epidemiológicas: sexo, edad de comienzo de la enfermedad, color de piel, lugar de procedencia; variables clínicas: síntomas al inicio y en la actualidad; número de brotes; años de evolución, formas clínicas; variables imagenológicas: número de lesiones, localización, atrofia o cambio de intensidad de señal del cuerpo calloso y criterio de McDonald cumplido. Resultados: hubo mayor incidencia del sexo femenino con 80 pacientes. Se constató que 59 pacientes presentaban forma clínica recidivante-remitente, 21 pacientes forma secundaria progresiva, 4 pacientes primaria progresiva y 2 pacientes progresiva recidivante. Los síntomas: déficit motor, déficit sensitivo y las alteraciones del cerebelo fueron los más frecuentes al inicio y en la actualidad. La discapacidad evaluada como mínima se constató en 50 pacientes y 31 pacientes presentaron de 2 a 4 lesiones en resonancia magnética nuclear. Conclusiones: se obtuvo, de forma satisfactoria, una adecuada información epidemiológica de los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple en Villa Clara. Es importante considerar el presente reporte, como una base para la toma de decisiones en temas de proyección de tratamiento y atención, aspectos de gran importancia en enfermedades de alto costo, como la esclerosis múltiple.

ABSTRACT Background multiple sclerosis is a neurological, autoimmune, degenerative, chronic and progressive demyelinating disease associated with different genetic and environmental factors. Objective: to characterize epidemiologically, clinically and imaging patients with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis Methods: observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study on all patients with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis with follow-up at the Arnaldo Milián Castro Provincial University Clinical-Surgical Hospital, in Villa Clara during the period from January 2014 to December 2019. The epidemiological variables analyzed: sex, age of disease onset, skin color, place of origin; clinical variables: symptoms at the beginning and at present; number of shoots; years of evolution, clinical forms; Imaging variables: number of lesions, location, atrophy or change in signal intensity of the corpus callosum and McDonald's criterion fulfilled. Results there was a higher incidence of females with 80 patients. It was found that 59 patients had a relapsing-remitting clinical form, 21 patients had a secondary progressive form, 4 patients had a primary progressive and 2 patients had a relapsing progressive one. Symptoms: motor deficit, sensory deficit and cerebellar alterations were the most frequent at the beginning and at present. Disability evaluated as minimal was found in 50 patients and 31 patients had 2 to 4 lesions on nuclear magnetic resonance. Conclusions: Adequate epidemiological information on patients with multiple sclerosis in Villa Clara was obtained satisfactorily. It is important to consider this report as a basis for decision-making on issues of projection of treatment and care, aspects of great importance in high-cost diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.

Efectividad de una estrategia para el seguimiento multidisciplinario de pacientes con esclerosis múltiple / Effectiveness of a strategy for the multidisciplinary follow-up to patients with multiple sclerosis

RESUMEN Fundamento: la promoción de salud es una vía para alcanzar niveles de salud deseables para toda la humanidad. La esclerosis múltiple es una enfermedad inflamatoria desmielinizante crónica del sistema nervioso central de carácter autoinmune. Objetivo: determinar la efectividad de una estrategia para el seguimiento multidisciplinario de pacientes con esclerosis múltiple dirigida a incrementar la calidad de vida percibida en ellos. Métodos: se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental con un diseño antes-después con un solo grupo en el Servicio de Neurología del Hospital Universitario Clínico- Quirúrgico "Arnaldo Milián Castro" de Santa Clara, en la provincia de Villa Clara, en el período comprendido de mayo 2017 a mayo 2019. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos: análisis-síntesis, inducción-deducción e histórico-lógico; empíricos: la aplicación individual del cuestionario de la Escala de Calidad de vida percibida y matemático-estadísticos para el análisis de los datos encontrados. Resultados: todos los pacientes modificaron su estado de calidad de vida percibida en los componentes: escala de satisfacción sexual, escala visual, control intestinal, impacto del dolor y estado físico hacia puntuaciones mejores después de aplicada la estrategia. La mayoría de los indicadores evaluados por el equipo de trabajo ofrecieron resultados de evaluación muy adecuados sobre el proceso interventivo. Conclusiones: la estrategia de seguimiento para los pacientes con esclerosis múltiple posibilitó una mayor calidad de vida percibida en ellos; es efectiva dado el logro de modificaciones satisfactorias en la puntuación de la escala calidad de vida percibida en todos sus componentes; los indicadores evaluados por el equipo de trabajo ofrecen resultados de evaluación muy adecuados.

ABSTRACT Background: health promotion is recognized as a way to achieve desirable levels of health for all humanity. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic demyelinating inflammatory disease of the central nervous system of an autoimmune nature. Objective: to determine the effectiveness of a strategy for the multidisciplinary follow-up to patients with multiple sclerosis aimed at increasing their quality of life. Methods: a quasi-experimental study with a before-after design was carried out with a single group in the Neurology Service of the "Arnaldo Milián Castro" Clinical-Surgical University Hospital of Santa Clara, in the province of Villa Clara, in the period from May 2017 to May 2019. Theoretical methods were used: analysis-synthesis, induction-deduction and historical-logical; empirical ones: the individual application of the questionnaire of the Perceived Quality of Life Scale and mathematical-statistical for the analysis of the data found. Results: all patients modified their perceived quality of life status in the components: sexual satisfaction scale, visual scale, bowel control, impact of pain and physical state towards better scores after applying the strategy. Most of the indicators evaluated by the team work offered very adequate evaluation results on the interventional process. Conclusions: the follow-up strategy for patients with multiple sclerosis enabled a higher perceived quality of life in them; its effectiveness is given by the achievement of satisfactory modifications in the score of the perceived quality of life scale in all its components; as well as the indicators evaluated by the team work offer very adequate evaluation results.

Sociodemographic factors associated with public knowledge of dementia in a Cuban population / Fatores sociodemográficos associados ao conhecimento público sobre demência em uma população cubana

ABSTRACT International organizations estimate that a new dementia is diagnosed every 3 s. Objectives: To explore the knowledge and beliefs among a cross-section of the adult population of Cuba with regard to dementia risk factors and to determine the demographic variables related with it. A cross-sectional survey was carried out on 1,004 Cubans. Methods: The survey measured the importance placed on dementia, risk reduction knowledge, and the actions to prevent it. Logistic regression was undertaken to identify variables associated with knowledge. Results: Many respondents (47.5%) believe that dementia risk reduction should start before the age of 40. Cognitive stimulation and physical activities were selected with major frequency. Being older than 48 years, having previous contact with dementia, and university education increases the probability of having healthy lifestyles. Conclusions: The exploration of demographic variables allows the prediction of likelihood to know about or have positive beliefs in relation to dementia. They should be contemplated into strategies for dementia prevention in Cuban population.

RESUMO Organizações internacionais estimam que um novo diagnóstico de demência seja feito a cada três segundos. Objetivos: Explorar o conhecimento e as crenças da população adulta cubana com relação aos fatores de risco de demência e determinar as variáveis demográficas a eles relacionados mediante um estudo de seção transversal. Um levantamento transversal foi realizado com 1.004 cubanos. Métodos: A pesquisa mediu a importância atribuída à demência, o conhecimento sobre redução de risco e as ações para preveni-la. Regressão logística foi realizada para identificar variáveis associadas ao conhecimento. Resultados: Muitos entrevistados (47,5%) acreditam que a redução do risco de demência deve começar antes dos 40 anos. A estimulação cognitiva e as atividades físicas foram selecionadas com maior frequência. Ter mais de 48 anos, contato prévio com demência e formação universitária aumentaram a probabilidade de ter estilos de vida saudáveis. Conclusões: A exploração de variáveis demográficas permite predizer a probabilidade de conhecer ou ter crenças positivas em relação à demência. Variáveis demográficas devem ser contempladas nas estratégias de prevenção de demência na população cubana.

The Risk Perception COVID-19 Scale (RP-COVID19-S): Initial Validation and Its Relationship with Gender and Age in a Cuban Population Sample.

BACKGROUND: Risk perception about COVID-19 constitutes an important variable contributing to promotion of personal protection practices. The aims of this study were to exploring the factorial structure of the risk perception COVID-19 scale (RP-COVID19-S) in a sample of Cuban adults and to identify its relationship with variables such as gender and age. METHODS: A cross-sectional web-based survey design was conducted. The sample comprised 394 Cuban participants. Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CATPCA) was used to explore internal factorial structure of the scale. Logistic regression was modeling to identify variables independently associated with RP about COVID-19. RESULTS: CATPCA allowed identifying a three-dimensional factorial structure into the scale: knowledge and beliefs, emotional reactions and behavioral dissonance, and motivations for change. The odds of a woman with middle RP compared to low RP was 2.17 times more than for a man. Also, the odds of a woman with high knowledge and beliefs compared to low knowledge and beliefs were 1.96 times more than for a man. The odds of a person in older group, with middle risk perception compared with low level, was 5.0 (global risk perception), 3.33 (knowledge and beliefs), and 3.13 (emotional reactions and behavioral dissonance) times more than for a person in younger group, respectively. CONCLUSION: The Risk Perception to COVD-19 Scale (RP-COVID-19-S) showed satisfactory psychometric properties to evaluated risk perception related to COVID-19 in Cuban population sample. Middle level of global risk perception was found in the sample. High level of risk perception about COVID-19 was found on participants older than 42 years old and in woman.

Anxiety, Health Self-Perception, and Worry About the Resurgence of COVID-19 Predict Fear Reactions Among Genders in the Cuban Population.

The resurgence of COVID-19 could deepen the psychological impacts of the pandemic which poses new challenges for mental health professionals. Among the actions that should be prioritized is the monitoring of the groups that have shown greater psychological vulnerability during the first stage of the pandemic. The first aim of our study is to explore the fear reactions to COVID-19 between genders during the second wave of the outbreak in Cuba. Second, establish possible predictors of fear of COVID-19 in relation to gender. Specifically, we will evaluate how anxiety related to COVID-19, health self-perception, and worry about the resurgence of COVID-19 predict fear reactions among women and men in the Cuban population. A cross-sectional online study was designed. The research was conducted between August 16 and October 18, 2020. A total of 373 people completed the online survey. A socio-demographic questionnaire, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale were used. An independent-samples t-test was conducted to compare the fear, worry, anxiety and self-perceived health scores, between genders. The relationship between those variables and fear of COVID-19, was investigated using Pearson correlation coefficient. Finally, multiple linear regression was used to evaluate the possible associations (predictors) related to fear of COVID-19. In our study, women, compared to men, presented greater fear reactions, greater concern about resurgence of COVID-19 and poorer self-perceived health. Anxiety reactions in our sample showed no differences between genders. In women, anxiety of COVID-19, worry about resurgence of COVID-19, and self-perceived health are associated with fear reactions to COVID-19. In the case of men, the self-perceived health showed no associations with fear reactions. Our results confirm the results of several related investigations during the first wave of the pandemic where women have shown greater psychological vulnerability compared to men. However, we cannot rule out that the real impact of the pandemic on mental health in men is much greater than that described by the studies conducted to date. Additional studies are needed on the psychological impact of COVID-19 on men.

Efectos de la intervención neurocognitiva en adultos mayores. Una revision sistemática / Effects of neurocognitive intervention in older adults. A systematic review

RESUMEN Fundamento La necesidad de la intervención neurocognitiva en adultos mayores, así como las diversas posturas en cuanto a sus beneficios, justifican la pertinencia de sistematizar las disímiles propuestas de intervención neurocognitiva en personas con y sin déficits cognitivos. Reviste vital importancia el conocimiento del impacto de dichas intervenciones en la salud cognitiva de estas personas. Objetivo describir, mediante una revisión sistemática de la literatura científica, los efectos de la intervención neurocognitiva sobre la salud cognitiva en adultos mayores sanos, y en adultos mayores con deterioro cognitivo leve o demencia. Métodos se realizó estudio descriptivo, que consistió en una revisión sistemática de la literatura científica sobre el tema; y partió de la búsqueda en las bases de datos: PubMed, PsycInfo, Scielo, Cochrane y EBSCO, de agosto a diciembre de 2018. Se empleó la Declaración PRISMA. Fueron encontrados 426 artículos. Tras aplicar los criterios de inclusión, exclusión y salida, y analizar el efecto de solapamiento, conformaron la muestra seis artículos. Resultados las principales formas de intervención neurocognitiva fueron la estimulación y el entrenamiento. La modalidad empleada con mayor frecuencia fue la estimulación neurocognitiva. Se reportaron efectos de mejora en la velocidad de procesamiento, en la atención selectiva, planeación, tiempo de reacción, categorización, fluidez verbal, comprensión, reconocimiento visual y orientación. Conclusión La evidencia empírica existente sobre la puesta en práctica de programas de intervención neurocognitiva durante los últimos diez años señala caminos hacia la intervención efectiva y la mejora de la calidad de vida de los adultos.

ABSTRACT Background The need for neurocognitive intervention in older adults, as well as the various positions regarding its benefits, justify the relevance of systematizing the dissimilar proposals for neurocognitive intervention in people with and without cognitive deficits. Knowledge of the impact of these interventions on the cognitive health of these people is vitally important. Objective to describe, through a systematic review of the scientific literature, the effects of neurocognitive intervention on cognitive health in healthy older adults, and in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Methods a descriptive study was carried out, which consisted of a systematic review of the scientific literature on the subject; and started from the search in the databases: PubMed, PsycInfo, Scielo, Cochrane and EBSCO, from August to December 2018. The PRISMA Declaration was used. 426 articles were found. After applying the inclusion, exclusion and exit criteria, and analyzing the overlap effect, six articles made up the sample. Results the main forms of neurocognitive intervention were stimulation and training. The most frequently used modality was neurocognitive stimulation. Effects of improvement in processing speed, selective attention, planning, reaction time, categorization, verbal fluency, comprehension, visual recognition and orientation were reported. Conclusion The existing empirical evidence on the implementation of neurocognitive intervention programs during the last ten years points to paths towards effective intervention and improvement of the quality of life of adults.