Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades (SDQ): predição do TDAH e TEA em crianças / Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ): prediction of ADHD and ASD in children / Cuestionario de Capacidades y Dificultades (SDQ): predicción de TDAH y TEA en niños

Este estudo investigou o poder de predição das subescalas do Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades (SDQ) para o diagnóstico de transtorno de déficit de atenção e hiperatividade (TDAH) e transtorno do espectro autista (TEA) na avaliação de pais e professores. Participaram 108 crianças entre 4 e 12 anos (controles n=72) sendo o grupo clínico composto por crianças com diagnóstico psiquiátrico. Análises multivariadas de variância verificaram as similaridades e diferenças entre os grupos nas subescalas e modelos de regressão logística foram testados para analisar o poder de predição. Os grupos clínicos apresentaram dificuldades em todas as subescalas e as crianças com TEA diferiram-se das com TDAH apenas em sintomas emocionais. O comportamento pró-social foi preditivo para os dois transtornos. Especificidades e divergências foram encontradas no poder preditivo das demais subescalas para ambos os grupos e avaliações. Discute-se o potencial do SDQ para auxílio diagnóstico do TDAH e TEA em diferentes contextos.(AU)

This study investigated the predictive power of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) subscales for the diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) in the evaluation of parents and teachers. Participants were 108 children between 4 and 12 years (controls n = 72) and clinical group presented psychiatric diagnosis. Multivariate analysis of variance verified the similarities and differences between the groups in the subscales, and logistic regression models to analyze the predictive power. Clinical groups presented difficulties in all subscales, and the children with ASD differed from those with ADHD only in emotional problems. Pro-social behavior was predictive for both disorders. Specificities and divergences were found in the predictive power of the other subscales for both groups and evaluators. We discuss the relevance of SDQ to aid diagnosis of ADHD and ASD in different contexts. (AU)

Este estudio investigó el poder predictivo de las subescalas del Cuestionario de Capacidades y Dificultades (SDQ) para el diagnóstico de trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad (TDAH) y trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) en la evaluación de padres y profesores. Participaron 108 niños entre 4 y 12 años (controles n = 72), estando el grupo clínico compuesto por niños con diagnóstico psiquiátrico. Los análisis multivariados de varianza verificaron las similitudes y diferencias entre grupos en las subescalas y se generaron modelos de regresión logística para analizar el poder predictivo. Los grupos clínicos tenían dificultades en todas las subescalas y los niños con TEA se diferenciaban de los que tenían TDAH solo en los síntomas emocionales. Se encontraron especificidades y divergencias en el poder predictivo de las otras subescalas tanto para grupos como para evaluaciones. Este estudio indicó el potencial de SDQ para ayudar al diagnóstico de TDAH y TEA en diferentes contextos. (AU)

Reflexões sobre o trabalho on-line da neuropsicologia infantil numa visão histórico-cultural / Reflections on the online work of child neuropsychology from a cultural-historical perspective / Reflexiones sobre el trabajo online de la neuropsicología infantil desde una perspectiva histórico-cultural

O isolamento social provocado pela pandemia de covid-19 exigiu uma intensificação no estabelecimento de parâmetros para o trabalho do neuropsicólogo com suas especificidades. Assim, o objetivo deste artigo é levantar reflexões sobre a prática neuropsicológica infantil via internet baseada na nossa experiência prática vivenciada no período, relacionando com as referências teóricas da abordagem histórico-cutural e outros trabalhos que discorrem sobre as particularidades dessa modalidade de atendimento. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica em fontes reconhecidas, como SciELO e Google Acadêmico, utilizando-se marcadores como "neuropsicologia on-line" e "teleneuropsicologia", entre outros, em português, inglês e espanhol. Os trabalhos encontrados foram utilizados como fundamento para discutir as ideias aqui apresentadas, a partir da experiência dos autores durante esse período. Considera-se que os neuropsicólogos precisam enfrentar a possível necessidade do trabalho on-line, considerando que as situações vividas durante a pandemia tendem a aumentar a necessidade de avaliações e intervenções neuropsicológicas. Ao mesmo tempo, se prevê que essa via de trabalho deve se intensificar após o isolamento, dentro do que se tem denominado como "o novo normal". Para isso, é essencial que haja esforço por parte da comunidade neuropsicológica para mostrar como essa área de trabalho pode ser útil para crianças, seus pais e professores. Conclui-se que é preciso ter a noção de que nenhuma via ou metodologia de trabalho é absolutamente completa, sendo essencial a instrumentalização das vantagens e desvantagens de todas elas.(AU)

The social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic demanded intensification in the establishment of parameters for the neuropsychologist's work with its specificities. Thus, the aim of this article is to raise reflections on child neuropsychological practice via the internet, based on our practical experience in this period, relating to the theoretical references of the cultural-historical approach and other works that discuss the particularities of this type of care. For this, a bibliographic research was carried out in recognized sources such as SciELO and Google Scholar, using markers such as "online neuropsychology" and teleneuropsychology, among others, in Portuguese, English and Spanish. The works found were used as a basis for discussing the ideas presented here which are based on the authors' experience during this period. It is considered that neuropsychologists need to face the possible need for online work, considering that situations experienced during the pandemic tend to increase the need for neuropsychological assessments and interventions. At the same time, it is expected that this work path should intensify after isolation, within of what has been called "the new normal". For this, an effort by the neuropsychological community is essential to show how this area of work can be useful for children, their parents and teachers. It is concluded that it is necessary to have the notion that no way or work methodology is absolutely complete, being essential the instrumentalization of the advantages and disadvantages of all of them.(AU)

El aislamiento social provocado por la pandemia de Covid-19 exigió una intensificación en el establecimiento de parámetros para el trabajo del neuropsicólogo con sus especificidades. Así, el objetivo de este artículo es plantear reflexiones sobre la práctica neuropsicológica infantil a través de internet, a partir de nuestra experiencia práctica en este período, en relación con los referentes teóricos del enfoque histórico-cultural y otros trabajos que discuten las particularidades de este tipo de cuidado. Para esto, se realizó una investigación bibliográfica en fuentes reconocidas como SciELO y Google Académico, utilizando marcadores como "neuropsicología en línea" y teleneuropsicología, entre otros, en portugués, inglés y español. Los trabajos encontrados sirvieron de base para discutir las ideas aquí presentadas a partir de la experiencia de los autores durante este período. Se considera que los neuropsicólogos necesitan enfrentar la posible necesidad de trabajo en línea, considerando que las situaciones vividas durante la pandemia tienden a incrementar la necesidad de evaluaciones e intervenciones neuropsicológicas. Al mismo tiempo, se espera que esta vía de trabajo se intensifique después del aislamiento, dentro de lo que se ha denominado "la nueva normalidad". Para esto, un esfuerzo de la comunidad neuropsicológica es fundamental para mostrar cómo esta área de trabajo puede ser útil para los niños, sus padres y profesores. Se concluye que es necesario tener la noción de que ninguna vía o metodología de trabajo es absolutamente completa, siendo imprescindible la instrumentalización de las ventajas y desventajas de todas ellas.(AU)

Sistema de avaliação de testes psicológicos: histórias contadas e não contadas / Psychological test evaluation system: stories told and untold / Sistema de evaluación de tests psicológicos: historias contadas y no contadas

O Sistema de Avaliação de Testes Psicológicos (SATEPSI) recebeu notoriedade entre brasileiros e estrangeiros por oferecer um complexo sistema de qualificação dos testes psicológicos, pouco visto em âmbito mundial. Sua elaboração dependeu de uma autarquia, que o financiou, normatizou e o mantém, mas também de pesquisadores docentes de avaliação psicológica, que trouxeram a expertise da área para que houvesse o pleno estabelecimento de seus parâmetros. Passadas duas décadas de seu lançamento, o SATEPSI foi tema de artigos, capítulos, lives e diálogos digitais, nos quais foram destaque, de modo geral, as Resoluções do Conselho Federal de Psicologia, que o normatiza, e seus impactos para a área de avaliação psicológica - como, por exemplo, o aumento do número de pesquisas e de testes brasileiros qualificados. O que se pretende neste artigo é mencionar sua construção, à luz dos autores que vivenciaram o SATEPSI em funções e tempos distintos. Atenção especial será dada aos Métodos Projetivos, cuja história ainda é pouco revelada.(AU)

The system to evaluate psychological tests (Satepsi) received notoriety among Brazilians and foreigners for offering a complex system of qualification of psychological tests, which is rarely seen worldwide. Its development depended on an autarchy (which financed, standardized, and maintains it) and on researchers teaching psychological assessment, who brought their expertise to the area so its parameters could be fully established. After two decades of its launch, Satepsi was the subject of articles, chapters, lives, and digital dialogues, which usually highlighted the Resolutions of the Federal Council of Psychology that normatize psychological evaluation and their impacts, such as the increase in the number of qualified Brazilian tests. This study aims to mention its construction in the light of the authors who experienced Satepsi in different functions and times, giving special attention to Projective Methods, whose history remains to be shown.(AU)

El Sistema de Evaluación de Tests Psicológicos (SATEPSI) ganó notoriedad entre los brasileños y los extranjeros por ofrecer un complejo sistema de calificación de los tests psicológicos, poco frecuente a nivel mundial. Su elaboración dependió de una autarquía, que lo financió, lo estandarizó y lo mantiene, pero también de investigadores docentes de evaluación psicológica, que trajeron la experiencia del área para que hubiera el pleno establecimiento de sus parámetros. Tras dos décadas de su lanzamiento, SATEPSI fue tema de artículos, capítulos, en directo y diálogos digitales, en los cuales destacaron, de modo general, las Resoluciones del Consejo Federal de Psicología que lo normatiza y sus impactos para el área de evaluación psicológica, como el aumento del número de investigaciones y de pruebas brasileñas calificadas. Lo que se pretende en este artículo es mencionar su construcción, a la luz de los autores que vivieron el SATEPSI en funciones y tiempos distintos. Se prestará especial atención a los métodos proyectivos cuya historia aún no se ha revelado.(AU)

Atualidades e perspectivas futuras da comissão consultiva em avaliação psicológica / Current affairs and future perspectives of the consultative commission on psychological assessment (CCAP) / Actualidades y perspectivas de futuro de la comisión consultiva en evaluación psicológica

A Comissão Consultiva em Avaliação Psicológica (CCAP), atrelada ao Sistema de Avaliação de Testes Psicológicos (SATEPSI) do Conselho Federal de Psicologia (CFP), tem como objetivos emitir pareceres acerca de solicitações advindas da avaliação psicológica(AP), elaborar e propor atualizações de documentos técnicos e normativos do CFP relativos à AP, elaborar e propor diretrizes para o ensino e formação continuada em AP, conduzir o processo de avaliação dos instrumentos submetidos ao SATEPSI e discutir temas e propor ações no âmbito da AP. Nos últimos 20 anos, a CCAP vem buscando atender a esses objetivos, indicando novos caminhos para a área. Nesse sentido, este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar as principais atualidades e movimentos da CCAP, indicando caminhos possíveis e perspectivas futuras para a área de AP. São discutidas as ações atuais que vêm sendo desenvolvidas pela CCAP, bem como as ações futuras delineadas que buscam promover uma AP cada vez mais democrática. Concluímos que a AP é uma prática do(a) psicólogo(a) que deve ser operacionalizada com compromisso ético, atrelada aos direitos humanos e à justiça, com embasamento científico e alinhada às mudanças sociais.(AU)

The Consultative Commission on Psychological Assessment (CCAP), affiliated with the Psychological Test Evaluation System under the Federal Council of Psychology (CFP), has the following objectives: to provide expert opinions on requests stemming from psychological assessments (PA), to draft and propose updates to the CFP technical and normative documents pertaining to PA, to formulate and recommend guidelines for education and ongoing professional development in PA, to oversee the evaluation process of instruments submitted to SATEPSI, and to engage in discussions and propose initiatives within the PA. Over the past two decades, CCAP has diligently worked to achieve these goals, charting new avenues in the field. In this context, this study aims to describe the most current developments and initiatives of CCAP and outline prospective directions and future outlooks for the PA. This study delves into the current initiatives undertaken by CCAP and the prospective actions delineated to foster a progressively more inclusive PA. Thus, we claim that PA is a practice inherent to psychologists that demands ethical commitment, alignment with human rights and justice, a solid scientific foundation, and adaptation to evolving social dynamics.(AU)

La Comisión Consultiva en Evaluación Psicológica (CCAP), vinculada al Sistema de Evaluación de Pruebas Psicológicas (SATEPSI) del Consejo Federal de Psicología (CFP), tiene como objetivo emitir opinión técnica sobre solicitudes derivadas de la evaluación psicológica (EP), elaborar y proponer actualizaciones de documentos técnicos y normativos del CFP relacionados con EP, desarrollar y proponer lineamientos para la enseñanza y la formación continua en EP, conducir el proceso de evaluación de los instrumentos presentados al SATEPSI y discutir temas y proponer acciones en el ámbito de EP. Durante los últimos veinte años, la CCAP ha buscado alcanzar estos objetivos indicando nuevos caminos para el área. En este sentido, este artículo tiene como objetivo presentar las principales actualidades y movimientos de la CCAP indicando posibles caminos y perspectivas de futuro para el área de EP. Se discuten las acciones actuales que ha desarrollado la CCAP, así como las acciones futuras perfiladas que buscan promover una EP cada vez más democrática. Se concluye que la EP es una práctica del psicólogo que debe ponerse en práctica con compromiso ético, vinculada a los derechos humanos y la justicia, con base científica y alineada con los cambios sociales.(AU)

Internal consistency of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire in Amazonian children / Consistência interna do Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades em crianças amazônicas

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To describe the frequency of behavioral problems and the internal consistency of the parent version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ-P) in Amazonian preschool children during the covid-19 pandemic. METHODS: Data from the Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition in Acre (MINA-Brazil) study, a population-based birth cohort in the Western Brazilian Amazon, were used. The SDQ-P was applied in 2021 at the five-year follow-up visit to parents or caregivers of 695 children (49.4% of which were girls). This instrument is a short behavioral screening questionnaire composed of 25 items reorganized into five subscales: emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity/inattention, peer relationship problems, and prosocial behavior. Cases of behavioral problems were defined according to the original SDQ cut-offs based on United Kingdom norms. Moreover, cut off points were estimated based on the SDQ-P percentile results of our study sample. Internal consistency was assessed by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient and McDonald's omega for each scale. RESULTS: According to the cut-offs based on our studied population distribution, 10% of all children had high or very high total difficulty scores, whereas it was almost twice when the original SDQ cut-offs based on United Kingdom norms, were applied (18%). Differences were also observed in the other scales. Compared to girls, boys showed higher means of externalizing problem and lower means of prosocial behavior. The five-factor model showed a moderate internal consistency of the items for all scales (0.60 ≤ α ≤ 0.40), except for total difficulty scores, which it considered substantial (α > 0.61). CONCLUSIONS: Our results support the usefulness of SDQ in our study population and reinforce the need for strategies and policy development for mental health care in early life in the Amazon.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Descrever a frequência de problemas de comportamento e a consistência interna da versão para os pais do Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades (SDQ-P) em crianças pré-escolares da Amazônia durante a pandemia de covid-19. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados dados do estudo de saúde e nutrição Materno-Infantil no Acre (MINA-Brasil), uma coorte de nascimentos de base populacional na Amazônia Ocidental Brasileira. O SDQ-P foi aplicado aos pais e cuidadores em 2021 na visita de acompanhamento de cinco anos de 695 crianças (49,4% das quais eram meninas). Esse instrumento é um breve questionário de rastreamento comportamental composto por 25 itens reorganizados em cinco subescalas: sintomas emocionais, problemas de conduta, hiperatividade/desatenção, problemas de relacionamento com colegas e comportamento pró-social. Os casos de problemas de comportamento foram definidos de acordo com os pontos de corte originais do SDQ, baseados nas normas do Reino Unido. Além disso, os pontos de corte foram estimados com base nos percentis dos resultados do SDQ-P da amostra do nosso estudo. A consistência interna foi avaliada pelo cálculo do coeficiente alfa de Cronbach e ômega de McDonald para cada escala. RESULTADOS: De acordo com os pontos de corte baseados na distribuição da população estudada, 10% de todas as crianças apresentaram escores totais de dificuldade elevados ou muito elevados, o que quase dobrou quando os pontos de corte originais do SDQ, baseados nas normas do Reino Unido, foram utilizados (18%). Este estudo também encontrou diferenças nas demais escalas. Comparados às meninas, os meninos apresentaram maiores médias de problemas de externalização e menores médias de comportamento pró-social. O modelo de cinco fatores apresentou consistência interna dos itens moderada para todas as escalas (0,60 ≤ α ≤ 0,40), exceto para a escala de pontuação total de dificuldades, a qual foi considerada substancial (α > 0,61). CONCLUSÕES: Nossos resultados apoiam a utilidade do SDQ em nossa população de estudo e reforçam a necessidade de estratégias e desenvolvimento de políticas para o cuidado em saúde mental no início da vida na Amazônia.

Item analysis of the Teacher's Gifted Rating Screening Scale / Análise dos itens da Triagem de Indicadores de Altas Habilidades / Superdotação

Objective: The present study aimed to add new evidence of construct validity of the Teacher's Rating Giftedness Screening Scale. The analysis of its items, in relation to the adjustment indices to the Graduated Response Model, as well as to interpret the sense of the scales formed by the items. Method: The sample was composed of 666 students (64.7% males). The instrument consisted of 42 items that assess five areas (general intellectual abilities, leadership, creativity, specific academic abilities, and artistic talent), being answered by 224 teachers. Results: The results indicated that all items had infit/outfit adjustment indexes within the expected value, between 0.5 and 1.5. The factor accuracy, estimated by the graduated response model, varied between 0.74 to 0.85. Conclusion: The results allowed the elaboration of an interpretation proposal referenced in the item, as well as the identification of the most effective items in discriminating individuals with above average ability level.

Objetivo: O presente estudo visou ampliar as evidências de validade de construto do instrumento Triagem de Indicadores de Altas Habilidades/Superdotação, por meio da análise dos seus itens, em relação aos índices de ajuste ao Modelo de Resposta Graduada, bem como interpretar o sentido das escalas formadas pelos itens. Método: A amostra foi composta por 666 estudantes (64,7% meninos). O instrumento, composto por 42 itens que avaliam cinco dimensões (capacidade intelectual geral, liderança, criatividade, habilidades acadêmicas especificas e talento artístico), foi respondido por 224 professores. Resultados: Os resultados indicaram que todos os itens apresentaram índices de ajuste infit/outfit dentro do valor esperado, entre 0,5 e 1,5. A precisão dos fatores, estimada pelo modelo de resposta graduada, variou entre 0,74 e 0,85. Conclusão: Os resultados permitiram a elaboração de uma proposta de interpretação referenciada no item, bem como a identificação dos itens que se mostram mais eficazes em discriminar indivíduos com habilidade acima da média.

Construção, evidências de validade e normatização de uma escala de competências socioemocionais / Construction, evidence of validity and standardization of a scale of socio-emotional competences

As competências socioemocionais têm despertado a atenção de pesquisadores pela sua relevância teórica e aplicabilidade. O objetivo principal desta pesquisa foi a construção, busca de evidências de validade eprodução de normas para uma escala de competências socioemocionais. Foram realizados dois estudos com um total de 696 participantes. O primeiro estudo consistiu na elaboração de itens, análise de juízes e análise fatorial exploratória do instrumento. O segundo estudo consistiu na realização da análise fatorial confirmatória e produção de normas para fins de diagnóstico. Os resultados exploratórios apresentaram um instrumento inicial com 28 itens. Esta análise revelou cinco fatores que apresentaram agrupamentos de itens teoricamente consistentes com as definições do modelo hipotético utilizado. A análise fatorial confirmatória apresentou um modelo com bons índices de ajustes e com os mesmos fatorese itens encontrados na análise exploratória. Concluiu-se que a escala apresentou boas propriedades psicométricas(AU)

The socio-emotional competencies have attracted the attention of researchers due to their theoretical relevance and applicability. The main objective of this research was to build, search for evidence of validity and production of norms for a scale of socio-emotional competencies. Foram carried out two studies with atotal of 696 subjects. The first study consisted of the elaboration of items, analysis by judges and exploratory factor analysis of the instrument. The second study consisted of carrying out confirmatory factor analysis and producing norms for diagnostic purposes. The exploratory results presented an initial instrument with 28 items. This analysis revealed five factors that presented clusters of items theoretically consistent with the definitions of the hypothetical model used. A confirmatory factor analysis revealed a model with good fit indices and the same factors and items found in the exploratory analysis. It was concluded that the scale presented good psychometric properties(AU)

Integrated assessment of children's cognitive and creative abilities: psychometric studies / Avaliação integrada das habilidades cognitivas e criativas de crianças: estudos psicométricos / Evaluación integrada de las habilidades cognitivas y creativas de los niños

It is essential that intelligence assessment be integrated with creativity, although no instruments in Brazil do so. This research investigated the item difficulty and validity and reliability of the Bateria de Avaliação Intelectual e Criativa Infantil (BAICI) to address this gap. The first sample consisted of 612 children (54% M) aged 7 to 12 years, and the second sample consisted of 377 students (56% M), some of whom (N = 164) were already identified as exhibiting high skills/giftedness. Item analysis indicated the need to adjust the BAICI items. The results of a MANCOVA indicated that the BAICI exhibits evidence of validity with external variables because the group of gifted children was significantly distinguished from the group of students attending regular schools on tests of vocabulary, speed, logical thinking, and creativity. The study concludes that the BAICI has psychometric qualities that can be used in the psychological assessment of children. (AU)

É essencial que a avaliação da inteligência seja integrada com a criatividade embora não existam instrumentos no país para essa finalidade. Esta pesquisa investigou a dificuldade dos itens e as evidências de validade e precisão da Bateria de Avaliação Intelectual e Criativa Infantil (BAICI) para oferecer uma avaliação mais completa do potencial infantil. A primeira amostra foi composta por 612 crianças (54% M), idade sete a 12 anos e a segunda de 377 estudantes (56% M), uma parte (N = 164) já identificadas com altas habilidades/superdotação. A análise pela TRI indicou a necessidade de ajuste de itens da BAICI. Os resultados pela MANCOVA indicaram que a BAICI possui evidências de validade com variáveis externas, pois o grupo de crianças superdotadas se distinguiu significativamente de estudantes de escolas regulares nos testes de vocabulário, rapidez, pensamento lógico e criatividade. Conclui-se que a BAICI possui qualidades psicométricas para ser utilizada na avaliação psicológica infantil. (AU)

Es fundamental que la evaluación de la inteligencia se integre con la creatividad, aunque en el país no existen instrumentos para este fin. Esta investigación analizó las evidencias de validez y precisión de la Batería de Evaluación Intelectual y Creativa Infantil (BAICI) para proporcionar una evaluación más completa del potencial de los niños. La primera muestra estuvo compuesta por 612 niños (54% M), de 7 a 12 años, a su vez, la segunda por 377 estudiantes (56% M), una parte (N = 164) ya identificada con altas habilidades/superdotación. El análisis de la TRI indicó la necesidad de ajustar los ítems de la BAICI. Los resultados de MANCOVA indicaron que BAICI tiene evidencias de validez con variables externas, ya que el grupo de niños superdotados se distinguió significativamente de niños de escuelas regulares en las pruebas de vocabulario, velocidad, pensamiento lógico y creatividad. Se concluye que la BAICI tiene cualidades psicométricas para ser utilizada en la evaluación psicológica infantil. (AU)

Timing and frequency of screening in schools: A latent variable analysis of behavioral stability over time.

The growth of school-based initiatives incorporating multitiered systems of support (MTSS) for social, emotional, and behavioral domains has fueled interest in behavioral assessment. These assessments are foundational to determining risk for behavioral difficulties, yet research to date has been limited with regard to when and how often to administer them. The present study evaluated these questions within the framework of behavioral stability and examined the extent to which behavior is stable when measured by two school-based behavioral assessments: the Direct Behavior Rating-Single-Item Scales (DBR-SIS), and the Behavioral and Emotional Screening System (BESS). Participants included 451 students rated three times per year across 4 years, with the primary teacher from each year providing the within-year ratings. Latent variable models were employed to measure the constructs underlying the observed assessment scores. Models demonstrated that the DBR-SIS best captured changes within the year, whereas the BESS scores remained stable across time points within a year. Across years, scores from both assessments captured changes. The unique contributions of each assessment in the data-based decision-making process are discussed, and recommendations are given for their combined use within and across school years. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

Steady-state visual evoked potentials in children with neurofibromatosis type 1: associations with behavioral rating scales and impact of psychostimulant medication.

BACKGROUND: Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder often associated with cognitive dysfunctions, including a high occurrence of deficits in visuoperceptual skills. The neural underpinnings of these visuoperceptual deficits are not fully understood. We used steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) to investigate possible alterations in the synchronization of neural activity in the occipital cortex of children with NF1. METHODS: SSVEPs were measured using electroencephalography and compared between children with NF1 (n = 28) and neurotypical controls (n = 28) aged between 4 and 13 years old. SSVEPs were recorded during visual stimulation with coloured icons flickering at three different frequencies (6 Hz, 10 Hz, and 15 Hz) and analyzed in terms of signal-to-noise ratios. A mixed design ANCOVA was performed to compare SSVEP responses between groups at the three stimulation frequencies. Pearson's correlations with levels of intellectual functioning as well as with symptoms of ADHD, ASD and emotional/behavioral problems were performed. The impact of psychostimulant medication on the SSVEP responses was analyzed in a subset of the NF1 group (n = 8) with paired t-tests. RESULTS: We observed reduced signal-to-noise ratios of the SSVEP responses in children with NF1. The SSVEP responses were negatively correlated with symptoms of inattention and with symptoms of emotional/behavioral problems in the NF1 group. The SSVEP response generated by the lowest stimulation frequency (i.e., 6 Hz) was rescued with the intake of psychostimulant medication. CONCLUSIONS: Impaired processing of rhythmic visual stimulation was evidenced in children with NF1 through measures of SSVEP responses. Those responses seem to be more reduced in children with NF1 who exhibit more symptoms of inattention and emotional/behavioral problems in their daily life. SSVEPs are potentially sensitive electrophysiological markers that could be included in future studies investigating the impact of medication on brain activity and cognitive functioning in children with NF1.

Effect of prematurity and temperament on the mother-infant interaction / Efeito da prematuridade e temperamento na interação mãe-bebê / Efecto de la prematurez y el temperamento en la interacción madre-bebé

Abstract We evaluated the effect of prematurity and the infant's temperament on the mother-infant behaviors in the Face-to-Face Still-Face Paradigm (FFSF). The study included 75 mothers and their infants (37 preterm and 38 term) between three and four months of age (corrected age for preterm infants). The mothers responded to a perception scale of the infants' temperament and the dyads were observed in a structured condition (FFSF). The FFSF Paradigm, divided into three episodes, made it possible to analyze the behaviors of: Positive Social Orientation, Negative Social Orientation and Self-comfort. The averages recorded for these categories were analyzed in a Multivariate ANOVA (factors: prematurity and temperament). Temperament had more effect on maternal and infant behaviors, suggesting that this factor may influence mother-infant interaction. The results can guide possible interventions with families. (AU)

Resumo Buscou-se avaliar o efeito da prematuridade e do tipo de temperamento do bebê sobre a interação mãe-bebê por meio do Paradigma do Face-to-Face Still-Face (FFSF). Participaram do estudo 75 mães e seus bebês (37 pré-termo e 38 a termo), entre três a quatro meses de vida (idade corrigida para bebês pré-termo). As mães responderam a uma escala de percepção do temperamento dos bebês e as díades foram filmadas em condição estruturada (FFSF). A filmagem, dividida em três episódios, possibilitou a análise de comportamentos de: Orientação Social Positiva, Orientação Social Negativa e Autoconforto. As médias registradas para essas categorias foram submetidas à Anova Multivariada (fatores: prematuridade e temperamento). O temperamento apresentou mais efeito sobre os comportamentos maternos e dos bebês, sugerindo que esse fator pode influenciar a interação diádica. Os resultados podem nortear possíveis intervenções junto às famílias.(AU)

Resumen Se buscó evaluar el efecto de la prematuridad y el tipo de temperamento del bebé en la interacción madre-bebé a través del Paradigma Face-to-Face Still-Face (FFSF). En el estudio participaron 75 madres y sus bebés (37 prematuros y 38 a término), con edades comprendidas entre los tres y los cuatro meses (edad corregida para bebés prematuros). Las madres respondieron a una escala de percepción del temperamento de los bebés y las díadas fueron filmadas en una condición estructurada (FFSF). El rodaje, dividido en tres episodios, permitió analizar los comportamientos de: Orientación Social Positiva, Orientación Social Negativa y Autoconfort. Los promedios registrados para estas categorías fueron sometidos al ANOVA Multivariado (factores: prematuridad y temperamento). El temperamento tuvo más efecto en los comportamientos maternos e infantiles, lo que sugiere que este factor puede influir en la interacción diádica. Los resultados pueden orientar posibles intervenciones con las familias. (AU)

Therapeutic effect of finasteride through its antiandrogenic and antioxidant role in a propionic acid-induced autism model: Demonstrated by behavioral tests, histological findings and MR spectroscopy.

BACKGROUND: Autism is a clinically defined neurodevelopmental disorder with unknown origin characterized by significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Although it can be a lifelong condition, treatments can help alleviate symptoms and enhance a patient's quality of life. PURPOSE: We aimed to assess the therapeutic potential of finasteride in autism with biochemical markers, histopathological evaluation, behavioral tests and radiological imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Propionic acid (PPA) was injected intraperitoneally into 20 out of 30 rats for 5 days to establish an autism model. Rats were randomly assigned into four groups: control group (no procedure was applied, n = 10), placebo group (intraperitoneal PPA + 1 ml/kg/day % 0.9 NaCl saline was given via oral gavage for 15 days, n = 10) and treated group (intraperitoneal PPA + 5 mg/kg/day of finasteride was given via oral gavage for 15 days, n = 10). After 4 days of behavioral tests, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was performed for measuring creatine and lactate levels. All animals were sacrificed for histopathological examination and biochemical analysis of brain tissue. RESULTS: MDA, NFκB, TNF-α, IL-2, IL-17A and lactate levels in brain homogenates were significantly increased in the placebo group compared to the control group, while Nfr2 levels were decreased; and the levels of all biochemical markers were reversed by finasteride treatment. A significant improvement was observed in autism-like behaviors in rats treated with finasteride compared to the placebo group. Further, the creatine and lactate levels in corpus striatum in MRS, the neuronal counts and glial activity of the hippocampus and cerebellum were closer to the control group in the finasteride-treated group compared to the placebo group. CONCLUSION: Finasteride led significant improvement in autism-like symptoms with its antioxidant effect through Nrf2 modulation in addition to its anti androgen effect.

Lateralized deficits after unilateral AAV-vector based overexpression of alpha-synuclein in the midbrain of rats on drug-free behavioral tests.

BACKGROUND: Preclinical rodent models of Parkinson's aim to recapitulate some of the hallmarks of the disease as it presents in humans, including the progressive neuronal loss of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain as well as the development of a behavioral phenotype. AAV vector-based models of alpha-synuclein overexpression are a promising tool to achieve such animal models with high face and predictive validity. OBJECTIVE: We have developed a preclinical rodent model of Parkinson's disease using an AAV-vector based overexpression of human alpha-synuclein. In the present work we characterize this model on a behavioral and histopathological level. METHODS: We use a AAV9 vector for transgene delivery to overexpress human alpha-synuclein under a CBA promoter. We compare the behavioral and histopathological changes to a AAV vector control group where the transgene was omitted and to that of a 6-OHDA lesion control. We assessed the behavioral performance of these three groups on a series of tests (Cylinder, Stepping, Corridor) at baseline and up to 22 weeks post-injection at which point we performed electrochemical recordings of dopamine kinetics. RESULTS: The overexpression of human alpha-synuclein led to the progressive manifestation of behavioral deficits on all three behavioral tests. This was accompanied with impaired dopamine release and reuptake kinetics as demonstrated by electrochemical detection methods. Histopathological quantifications corroborated the findings that we induced a moderate cell loss with remaining cells displaying pathological markers which are abundant in the brains of human PD patients. CONCLUSIONS: In the present work we developed a characterized a rat model of PD that closely mimics human disease development and pathology. Such model will be of great use for investigation of disease mechanisms and early therapeutic interventions.

Psychological adjustment of children with cancer: relapse and survival perspectives / Ajustamento psicológico de crianças com câncer: perspectivas da recidiva e da remissão / Ajuste psicológico de niños con cáncer: perspectivas de recaída y supervivencia

In Brazil, few studies have investigated the psychological aspects of childhood cancer. The aim of this article was to compare the psychological adjustment of children with cancer from different survival perspectives with that of children without cancer, besides examining potential risk factors. The sample consisted of 179 participants (6-14 years-old) recruited in two Brazilian public hospitals and three schools, and divided in three groups (relapsed, survivors and control). Children answered orally the self-reported Behavior Assessment Scale for Children, the Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale and Piers-Harris' Self-Concept Scale. No differences were found between groups regarding school and clinical maladjustment, personal adjustment, emotional symptoms and self-concept. Findings also showed positive associations between psychological maladjustment and gender, younger age, lower household income, single parenthood and lower levels of parental education. Conclusions indicate that children with cancer adapt well to the disease and do not present more psychological problems than controls (AU).

No Brasil, poucos estudos investigaram os aspectos psicológicos do câncer infantil. O objetivo deste artigo foi comparar o ajustamento psicológico de crianças com câncer com diferentes perspectivas de sobrevivência com o de crianças sem câncer, além de examinar potenciais fatores de risco. A amostra consistiu em 179 participantes (6-14 anos de idade) recrutados em dois hospitais públicos e três escolas brasileiras. As crianças responderam oralmente à Escala de Avaliação Comportamental para Crianças, à Escala de Ansiedade Manifesta para Crianças Revisada e à Escala de Autoconceito Piers-Harris. Não foram constatadas diferenças entre os grupos com relação ao desajustamento clínico e escolar, ajustamento pessoal, sintomas emocionais e autoconceito. Os resultados também mostraram associações positivas entre o desajustamento psicológico e gênero, menor idade, menor renda, famílias monoparentais e menor nível educacional parental. As conclusões indicam que crianças com câncer se adaptam bem à doença e não apresentam mais problemas psicológicos que as do grupo controle (AU).

Na Brasil, pocos estudios han investigado los aspectos psicológicos del cáncer infantil. El objetivo de este artículo fue comparar el ajuste psicológico de niños na cáncer na diferentes perspectivas de supervivencia na el de niños sin cáncer, además de examinar los posibles factores de riesgo. La muestra consistió en 179 participantes (6-14 años de edad) reclutados en dos hospitales públicos y tres escuelas brasileñas. Los niños contestaron oralmente a la Escala de Evaluación del Comportamiento del Niño, la Escala Revisada de Ansiedad Manifiesta en Niños y la Escala de Autoconcepto de Piers-Harris. No se constataron diferencias entre los grupos con respeto al desajuste clínico y escolar, el ajuste personal, los síntomas emocionales y el autoconcepto. Los resultados también mostraron asociaciones positivas entre el desajuste psicológico y el género, la menor edad, la menor renta, las familias monoparentales y el nivel educativo parental más bajo. Las conclusiones señalan que niños con cáncer se adaptan bien a la enfermedad y no presentan más problemas psicológicos que los del grupo de control (AU).

Oral health literacy and socio-demographics as determinants of oral health status and preventive behavior measures in participants of a pre-marriage counseling program.

This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to assess the correlation of oral health literacy (OHL) and oral health status and behavior in participants of a pre-marriage counseling program. Also, it aimed to determine the target population's OHL needs to design necessary interventions. A total of 828 couples with a mean age of 24.22 years participating in a pre-marriage counseling program were evaluated. Data were collected using the oral health literacy-adult questionnaire (OHL-AQ). Clinical oral examinations were performed to measure the gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), and DMFT. The mean OHL score of the couples was 7.86±3.83 out of 17; while, the mean DMFT score was 6.30±5.73. After controlling for the confounders, OHL had a significant correlation with the frequency of dental visits, and smoking status, and inverse correlation with the number of decayed teeth and missing teeth, and PI, and GI (p<0.05). The current results highlight the necessity of OHL interventions to fill the existing gaps. This is an unmet need of the couples, and such interventions are required to promote their own oral health as well as the oral health of their future children.

Serotonin/HTR1E signaling blocks chronic stress-promoted progression of ovarian cancer.

Rationale: Psychological stress has been linked to cancer development and resistance to therapy by many epidemiological and clinical studies. Stress-induced immunosuppressive microenvironment by stress hormones, in particular glucocorticoids, has been extensively studied. However, the impacts of other stress-related neurotransmitters, such as serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), on cancer development just start to be revealed. Here, we aimed to identify novel neurotransmitters involved in stress-induced growth and dissemination of ovarian cancer (OC) and reveal the major underlying signaling pathway and the therapeutic significance. Methods: Through a genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screen in the murine orthotopic model of ovarian carcinoma (OC), we identified candidate genes regulating the peritoneal dissemination of OC. Among them, we picked out HTR1E, one member of 5-HT receptor family specifically expressed in the ovary and endometrium in addition to brain. The correlation of HTR1E expression with OC progression was analyzed in OC patient specimen by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Gain-of-function and loss-of-function analyses were performed to explore the functions of 5-HT/HTR1E signaling in OC growth and dissemination in vitro and in vivo. In addition, we investigated the therapeutic values of HTR1E specific agonist and small molecular inhibitors against HTR1E downstream factor SRC in a stressed murine OC xenograft model. Results: In OC patients, the HTR1E expression is dramatically decreased in peritoneal disseminated OC cells, which correlates with poor clinical outcome. Silence of HTR1E in OC cells greatly promotes cell proliferation and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) by the activation of SRC-mediated downstream signaling pathways. Furthermore, chronic stress results in significantly decreased serotonin in the ovary and the enhanced OC growth and peritoneal dissemination in mice, which can be strongly inhibited by specific HTR1E agonist or the SRC inhibitor. Conclusions: We discovered the essential role of serotonin/HTR1E signaling in preventing the chronic psychological stress-promoted progression of OC, suggesting the potential therapeutic value of the HTR1E specific agonist and the SRC inhibitor for OC patients who are suffering from psychological stress.

A hypothalamic-thalamostriatal circuit that controls approach-avoidance conflict in rats.

Survival depends on a balance between seeking rewards and avoiding potential threats, but the neural circuits that regulate this motivational conflict remain largely unknown. Using an approach-food vs. avoid-predator threat conflict test in rats, we identified a subpopulation of neurons in the anterior portion of the paraventricular thalamic nucleus (aPVT) which express corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) and are preferentially recruited during conflict. Inactivation of aPVTCRF neurons during conflict biases animal's response toward food, whereas activation of these cells recapitulates the food-seeking suppression observed during conflict. aPVTCRF neurons project densely to the nucleus accumbens (NAc), and activity in this pathway reduces food seeking and increases avoidance. In addition, we identified the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) as a critical input to aPVTCRF neurons, and demonstrated that VMH-aPVT neurons mediate defensive behaviors exclusively during conflict. Together, our findings describe a hypothalamic-thalamostriatal circuit that suppresses reward-seeking behavior under the competing demands of avoiding threats.

Protocol for behavioral tests using chemogenetically manipulated mice.

Behavioral analyses using mice chemogenetically manipulated by designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) are powerful tools to elucidate neural functions. Here, we describe the detailed protocols for stereotaxic surgery, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated introduction to Gq-DREADDs in mice, and for behavioral testing and analyses related to anxiety, risk assessment, and burying behaviors. A series of these tests are useful in evaluating animal anxiety and their defensive response patterns to potential threats. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Horii-Hayashi et al. (2021).

Development and Validation of the General Dietary Behavior Inventory (GDBI) in Scope of International Nutrition Guidelines.

Unhealthy eating is associated with various diseases, such as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, or oncological. There are neither economical nor behavior-related questionnaires available in the German language to assess general dietary behavior. Therefore, the aim of this validation study was to develop an instrument considering these aspects and verifying its construct and criterion validity. The new questionnaire is based on the general nutrition recommendations of the World Health Organization and the German Nutrition Society. It consists of 16 items that contrast dietary behaviors on a semantic differential scale. Our German-speaking convenience sample consisted of 428 participants. The construct validity of the General Dietary Behavior Inventory (GDBI) could be confirmed by examining convergent and discriminant validity. Furthermore, criterion validity was confirmed (significant negative correlations with body weight, Body Mass Index, and positive correlations with physical/mental health as well as life satisfaction). A cluster analysis revealed two different dietary behavior clusters representing a rather healthy and a rather unhealthy dietary behavior cluster. The results indicate that the GDBI is a validated and economical instrument to assess general dietary behavior. In practical research, this questionnaire helps to assess dietary behavior and to derive interventions for a healthy dietary behavior in concordance with international nutrition recommendations.

Construct validity of the Individual Lifestyle Profile scale in times of social distancing / Validade de constructo da escala Perfil do Estilo de Vida Individual em tempos de distanciamento social

The aims of the study were to estimate the level of reliability and factorial validity of the "Individual Lifestyle Profile" scale in times of social distancing, through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Therefore, the "Individual Lifestyle Profile" scale in times of social distancing was used in a study carried out with samples of students and employees of higher education institutions from different Brazilian regions. The final sample consisted of 4,694 adults who have answered the online form. For construct evaluation, internal consistency analysis was performed using Cronbach's Alpha (a) and Spearman's correlation. The CFA was used to test the hypothetical factor structure of the scale. Overall internal consistency was a = 0.778 and there were significant correlations, however, less than ± 0.799 for items from the same constructs and ± 0.499 among items from different constructs. In the CFA, after adjustments to the model structure, all indicators were adequate (Goodness-of-fit Index: 0.976; Comparative Fit Index: 0.937; Normalized Fit Indices: 0.932; Tucker-Lewis Indi-ces: 0.914; Root Mean Square Error of Approximation: 0.047; Root Mean-Square Residual: 0.031; Standardized Root Mean-Square Residual: 0.0337), with the exception for chi-square p values and the ratio between chi-square and degrees of freedom. It is concluded that the "Individual Lifestyle Profile" scale in times of social distancing has shown satisfactory internal consistency and factor structure to guide the assessment of lifestyle (individual or groups) and interventions to promote healthy lifestyles

Os objetivos do estudo foram estimar o nível de confiabilidade e validade fatorial da escala "Perfil do Estilo de Vida Individual " em tempos de distanciamento social, por meio da análise fatorial confirmatória (AFC). Para tanto, a escala "Perfil do Estilo de Vida Individual " em tempos de distanciamento social foi empregada em um estudo realizado com amostras de estudantes e servidores de instituições de ensino superior de diferen-tes regiões brasileiras. A amostra final correspondeu a 4.694 adultos que responderam o formulário on-line. Para a avaliação de constructo foi realizada a análise de consistência interna via Alfa de Cronbach's (a) e correlação de Spearman. Empregou-se a AFC para testar a estrutura fatorial hipotética da escala. A con-sistência interna geral foi de a de 0,778 e houve correlações significativas, porém, inferiores a ± 0,799 para os itens dos mesmos constructos e ± 0,499 entre os itens de constructos diferentes. Na AFC, após ajustes na estrutura do modelo, ocorreu a adequação para todos os indicadores (Goodness-of-fit Index: 0,976; Compa-rative Fit Index: 0,937; Normalized Fit Indices: 0,932; Tucker-Lewis Indices: 0,914; Root Mean Square Error of Approximation: 0,047; Root Mean-Square Residual: 0,031; Standardized Root Mean-Square Residual: 0,0337), com a exceção para os valores de p do Qui-quadrado e razão entre Qui-quadrado e graus de liberdade. Conclui-se que a escala "Perfil do Estilo de Vida Individual " em tempos de distanciamento social, mostrou consistência interna e estrutura fatorial satisfatórias para orientar a avaliação do estilo de vida (individual ou de grupos) e as intervenções para promover estilos de vida saudáveis