Biochar obtained from eucalyptus, rice hull, and native bamboo as an alternative to decrease mobility of hexazinone, metribuzin, and quinclorac in a tropical soil.

Mobile herbicides have a high potential for groundwater contamination. An alternative to decrease the mobility of herbicides is to apply materials with high sorbent capacity to the soil, such as biochars. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of eucalyptus, rice hull, and native bamboo biochar amendments on sorption and desorption of hexazinone, metribuzin, and quinclorac in a tropical soil. The sorption-desorption was evaluated using the batch equilibrium method at five concentrations of hexazinone, metribuzin, and quinclorac. Soil was amended with eucalyptus, rice hull, and native bamboo biochar at a rate of 0 (control-unamended) and 1% (w w-1), corresponding to 0 and 12 t ha-1, respectively. The amount of sorbed herbicides in the unamended soil followed the decreasing order: quinclorac (65.9%) > metribuzin (21.4%) > hexazinone (16.0%). Native bamboo biochar provided the highest sorption compared to rice hull and eucalyptus biochar-amended soils for the three herbicides. The amount of desorbed herbicides in the unamended soil followed the decreasing order: metribuzin (18.35%) > hexazinone (15.9%) > quinclorac (15.1%). Addition of native bamboo biochar provided the lowest desorption among the biochar amendments for the three herbicides. In conclusion, the biochars differently affect the sorption and desorption of hexazinone, metribuzin, and quinclorac mobile herbicides in a tropical soil. The addition of eucalyptus, rice hull, and native bamboo biochars is a good alternative to increase the sorption of hexazinone, metribuzin, and quinclorac, thus, reducing mobility and availability of these herbicides to nontarget organisms in soil.

The presence of anhedonia in individuals with subacute and chronic stroke: an exploratory cohort study.

Background: Anhedonia refers to the diminished capacity to experience pleasure. It has been described both as a symptom of depression and an enduring behavioral trait that contributes its development. Specifically, in stroke patients, anhedonia has been closely linked to depression, resulting in reduced sensitivity to everyday pleasures and intrinsic motivation to engage in rehabilitation programs and maintain a healthy active lifestyle. This condition may hinder patients' recovery, diminishing their autonomy, functioning, and quality of life. Objective: We aimed to explore the prevalence and level of anhedonia and those variables that might be associated in patients with both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke at subacute and chronic phases of the disease. Methods: We conducted an exploratory cohort study with a sample of 125 patients with subacute and chronic stroke presenting upper-limb motor deficits. We measured participants' level of anhedonia with four items from the Beck Depression Inventory-II that describe the symptoms of this condition: loss of pleasure, loss of interest, loss of energy, and loss of interest in sex. We also collected demographic and clinical information and evaluated motor and cognitive functions as well as levels of depression, apathy, and various mood states. The results were compared to a sample of 71 healthy participants of similar age, sex, and level of education. Results: Stroke patients demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence (18.5-19.7%) and level of anhedonia compared to the healthy controls (4.3%), regardless of stroke phase, level of motor impairment, and other clinical variables. Furthermore, post-stroke anhedonia was associated with lower levels of motivation and higher levels of negative mood states such as fatigue and anger in the long term. Importantly, anhedonia level was superior in stroke patients than in healthy controls while controlling for confounding effects of related emotional conditions. Conclusion: This study provides novel evidence on the prevalence, level and factors related to anhedonia post-stroke. We emphasize the importance of assessing and treating anhedonia in this population, as well as conducting large-scale cohort and longitudinal studies to test its influence on long-term functional and emotional recovery.

GAD-7 Generalised Anxiety Disorder scale in Colombian medical professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic: Construct validity and reliability.

INTRODUCTION: The detection of anxiety symptoms among health workers who care for patients infected with COVID-19 is a current priority. Fast and valid instruments are required for this population group. The objective is to establish the construct validity and reliability of the Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale in Colombian doctors during the COVID-19 lockdown. METHODS: E-health study, in which cross-sectional data were collected online (n = 1030) from 610 COVID doctors and 420 non-COVID doctors, during the Colombian lockdown, between 20 April and 10 August 2020. Each subject was contacted, and they confirmed their participation, identity and professional role. RESULTS: A single factor factorial structure was found, made up of the 7 items of the instrument, which managed to explain 70% of the variance. The goodness of fit indices (RMSEA = 0.080; CFI = 0.995; SRMR = 0.053; p < 0.001) showed an "acceptable" unidimensionality and adequate factor loadings in each item of the GAD-7, >0.070. Finally, the internal consistency of the instrument was good, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.920 (95%IC, 8.80-9.71). CONCLUSIONS: The GAD-7 is an instrument that presents adequate indicators of validity and reliability. It is an excellent tool that is reliable and easy and fast to use for the detection of generalised anxiety symptoms in medical personnel caring (or not) for patients infected with COVID-19.

Effect and safety of listening to music or audiobooks as a coadjuvant treatment for chronic pain patients under opioid treatment: a study protocol for an open-label, parallel-group, randomised, controlled, proof-of-concept clinical trial in a tertiary hospital in the Barcelona South Metropolitan area.

BACKGROUND: Chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) treatment's primary goal is to maintain physical and mental functioning while improving quality of life. Opioid use in CNCP patients has increased in recent years, and non-pharmacological interventions such as music listening have been proposed to counter it. Unlike other auditive stimuli, music can activate emotional-regulating and reward-regulating circuits, making it a potential tool to modulate attentional processes and regulate mood. This study's primary objective is to provide the first evidence on the distinct (separate) effects of music listening as a coadjuvant maintenance analgesic treatment in CNCP patients undergoing opioid analgesia. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This will be a single-centre, phase II, open-label, parallel-group, proof-of-concept randomised clinical trial with CNCP patients under a minimum 4-week regular opioid treatment. We plan to include 70 consecutive patients, which will be randomised (1:1) to either the experimental group (active music listening) or the control group (active audiobooks listening). During 28 days, both groups will listen daily (for at least 30 min and up to 1 hour) to preset playlists tailored to individual preferences.Pain intensity scores at each visit, the changes (differences) from baseline and the proportions of responders according to various definitions based on pain intensity differences will be described and compared between study arms. We will apply longitudinal data assessment methods (mixed generalised linear models) taking the patient as a cluster to assess and compare the endpoints' evolution. We will also use the mediation analysis framework to adjust for the effects of additional therapeutic measures and obtain estimates of effect with a causal interpretation. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The study protocol has been reviewed, and ethics approval has been obtained from the Bellvitge University Hospital Institutional Review Board, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain. The results from this study will be actively disseminated through manuscript publications and conference presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05726266.

Escala de ansiedad generalizada GAD-7 en profesionales médicos colombianos durante pandemia de COVID-19: validez de constructo y confiabilidad

Introducción: La detección de síntomas de ansiedad entre el personal sanitario que atiende a pacientes contagiados de COVID-19 es una prioridad actual. Se requieren instrumentos rápidos y válidos para esta población. El objetivo es establecer la validez de constructo y la confiabilidad de la Escala de Ansiedad Generalizada (GAD-7) en médicos colombianos durante la cuarentena por la COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio eSalud, en el que se recopilaron datos transversales en línea (n = 1.030) de 610 médicos de COVID y 420 no de COVID durante la cuarentena colombiana, entre el 20 de abril y el 10 de agosto de 2020. Se contactó con cada sujeto, que confirmó participación, identidad y función profesional. Resultados: Se encontró una estructura factorial de 1 solo factor, conformado por los 7 ítems del instrumento, que logró explicar el 70% de la varianza. Los índices de bondad de ajuste (RMSEA = 0,080; CFI = 0,995; SRMR = 0,053; p 0,07. Por último, la consistencia interna del instrumento fue buena, con alfa de Cronbach = 0,920 (IC95%,8,80-9,71). Conclusiones: El GAD-7 es un instrumento que presenta indicadores adecuados de validez y confiabilidad. Es un excelente instrumento, confiable, fácil y rápido de usar para la detección de los síntomas de ansiedad generalizada en personal médico, atienda o no a pacientes contagiados de COVID-19.

Introduction: The detection of anxiety symptoms among health workers who care for patients infected with COVID-19 is a current priority. Fast and valid instruments are required for this population group. The objective is to establish the construct validity and reliability of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale in Colombian doctors during the COVID-19 lockdown. Methods: E-health study, in which cross-sectional data were collected online (n = 1,030) from 610 COVID doctors and 420 non-COVID doctors, during the Colombian lockdown, between 20 April and 10 August 2020. Each subject was contacted, and they confirmed their participation, identity and professional role. Results: A single factor factorial structure was found, made up of the 7 items of the instrument, which managed to explain 70% of the variance. The goodness of fit indices (RMSEA = 0.080; CFI = 0.995; SRMR = 0.053; p 0.070. Finally, the internal consistency of the instrument was good, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.920 (95%IC, 8.80-9.71). Conclusions:The GAD-7 is an instrument that presents adequate indicators of validity and reliability. It is an excellent tool that is reliable and easy and fast to use for the detection of generalised anxiety symptoms in medical personnel caring (or not) for patients infected with COVID-19.

Knowledge and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in individuals practicing regular amatorial physical activity: a cross-sectional study conducted in the Metropolitan Area of Palermo, Italy.

Introduction: Mediterranean Diet (MD) is a universal model of nutrition that prevents several metabolic, cardiovascular, and oncological diseases. Main objective of the present study was to analyze adherence and knowledge regarding MD principles in a sample of individuals practicing amatorial sports from the Metropolitan Area of Palermo. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 Sports Centers, between October 2020 and September 2021, through a previously validated anonymous questionnaire structured in five sections including 74 items. Results: Overall, 337 subjects answered to the questionnaire. Based on the multivariable analysis conducted, a higher knowledge score (KS) on MD principles was observed among individuals daily consuming vegetables (OR: 3.32; CI95%: 1.82-6.02) and in the ones more adherent to MD principles (OR: 10.15; CI95%:5.47-18.85). More in depth, using MEDAS score to analyze the adherence to MD, a significant lower adherence was observed among overweight/obese (OR: 0.57; CI95%:0.33-0.99) and among employed subjects (OR: 0.52; IC95%: 0.28-0.98); while, a higher adherence was highlighted among daily consumers of vegetables (OR: 2.52; CI95%:1.52-4.17), daily consumers of fruit (OR: 1.77; CI95%:1.08-2.90), and in individuals that have daily breakfast (OR: 4.29; CI95%:1.15-15.96). Discussion: In accordance with the WHO Europe Gaining Health Campaign, Public Health Authorities should simplify accessibility to healthy food among general population, promoting principles and accessibility to MD.

[Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Health Workers During the Second Year of the Pandemic in Latin America: Cross-Sectional Survey Study]. / Impacto psicológico del COVID-19 en los trabajadores sanitarios durante el segundo año de pandemia en Latinoamérica: estudio de encuesta transversal.

Introduction: The coronavirus pandemic continues to affect the mental health of healthcare personnel in Latin America (LA). Objective: To estimate the prevalence of psychological disturbances and associated risk factors for mental health in healthcare personnel in LA during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: This multicenter cross-sectional study included a total sample of 5437 healthcare professionals from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The PHQ-9, GAD-7, and a brief demographic questionnaire were used. The prevalence of anxiety and depression was estimated based on the cut-off points of the instruments. Two multivariate logistic regressions were performed. Results: A population burden of anxiety (40.1%) and depression (62.2%) was found in healthcare personnel in LA. Among professionals in Argentina (OR = 1.374; P<.001), those working in state hospitals (OR = 1.536; P<.003), frontline healthcare workers for COVID patients (OR = 1.848; P<.001), general practitioners (OR = 1.335; P<.001), and specialists (OR = 1.298; P<.001), a higher risk of experiencing mental disorders was observed. Among women, younger personnel, and administrative staff, a higher probability of experiencing anxiety and depression was identified. Conclusions: The burden of mental disorders on healthcare personnel in Latin America is alarming. Psychological support services are necessary, aimed at providing measures for professionals to develop healthy coping mechanisms that mitigate the impact of the pandemic on their well-being and facilitate post-crisis adjustment.

Kisspeptin as a predictor of miscarriage: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: A highly accurate serum marker for predicting viable pregnancy needs to be developed. Recent studies have demonstrated that kisspeptin is a potential biomarker for this purpose. METHODS: This systematic review evaluated the available data in the literature on the role of kisspeptin as a miscarriage biomarker. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases using the following keywords: (kisspeptin) AND (miscarriage OR pregnancy loss OR spontaneous abortion OR reproductive failure). RESULTS: Seven case-control studies were selected for the systematic review. The included papers described the potential role of kisspeptin as a putative biomarker of pregnancy loss. Furthermore, two studies reported that changes in kisspeptin levels may be associated with unexplained infertility and low rates of embryo implantation in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology. CONCLUSION: Kisspeptin might be used as a potential biomarker of pregnancy viability in the near future. However, studies with better evidence are needed to establish the applicability of kisspeptin as a diagnostic and prognostic tool.

Factors associated with cognitive impairment in Latin American older adults: A cross-sectional observational study of COVID-19 confinement.

INTRODUCTION: The effects of COVID-19 confinement have been severe, especially in older adults. Therefore, we analyzed the factors associated with cognitive impairment (CI) in Latin America (LA). METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study with a total of 5245 older adults from 10 countries in LA. Measurement: We used the Telephone Montreal Cognitive Assessment (T-MoCA) and the Eight-item Informant Interview to Differentiate Aging and Dementia (AD8) scale. RESULTS: We found that age, depressive symptomatology, bone fractures, being widowed, having a family member with dementia, and unemployment were associated with an increased risk of CI. In contrast, higher education, hypertension with continuous treatment, quarantine, and keeping stimulating cognitive and physical activities were associated with a lower probability of CI. No significant association was found between suffering from diabetes or being retired and CI. DISCUSSION: It is essential to conduct follow-up studies on these factors, considering their relationship with CI and the duration of confinement.

Deep brain stimulation may be a viable option for resistant to treatment aggression in children with intellectual disability.

INTRODUCTION: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical technique used to manage aggression in patients who do not improve despite the use of appropriate drug treatment. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to assess the impact of DBS on aggressive behavior refractory to the pharmacological and behavioral treatment of patients with Intellectual Disabilities (ID). METHODS: A follow-up was conducted on a cohort of 12 patients with severe ID, undergoing DBS in posteromedial hypothalamic nuclei; evaluated with the Overt Aggression Scale (OAS), before the intervention, at 6, 12, and 18 months of medical follow-up. RESULTS: After the surgical procedure, there was a significant reduction in the aggressiveness of patients in the follow-up medical evaluation at 6 months (t = 10.14; p < 0.01), 12 months (t = 14.06; p < 0.01), and 18 months (t = 15.34; p < 0.01), respect to the initial measurement; with a very large effect size (6 months: d = 2.71; 12 months: d = 3.75; 18 months: d = 4.10). From 12 months onward, emotional control stabilized and is sustained at 18 months (t = 1.24; p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: DBS in posteromedial hypothalamic nuclei may be an effective treatment for the management of aggression in patients with ID refractory to pharmacological treatment.

Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: Where Are We?

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal neoplasms worldwide; it is aggressive in nature and has a poor prognosis. The overall survival rate for pancreatic cancer is low. Most patients present non-specific symptoms in the advanced stages, which generally leads to late diagnosis, at which point there is no option for curative surgery. The treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer includes systemic therapy, in some cases radiotherapy, and more recently, molecular targeted therapies, which can positively impact cancer control and improve quality of life. This review provides an overview of the molecular landscape of pancreatic cancer based on the most recent literature, as well as current treatment options for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer.

A maternidade atípica: narrativas de uma mãe com três filhos com Transtorno do Espectro Autista / Atypical motherhood: narratives of a mother with three children with autism spectrum disorder / Maternidad atípica: narrativas de una madre con tres hijos con trastorno del espectro autista

Objetivo: relatar as experiências e narrativas de uma mulher enquanto mãe de três filhos com Transtorno do Espectro Autista. Método: estudo de natureza qualitativa, do tipo narrativa de vida. A pesquisa foi realizada com uma mãe de três filhos com Transtorno do Espectro Autista, em acompanhamento na Associação de Equoterapia de Alagoas. Os dados foram produzidos a partir de entrevistas narrativas com a participante da pesquisa. As entrevistas com a participante foram realizadas nos meses de junho e julho de 2022, em momento presencial e individual. Resultados: percebeu-se que as necessidades mais recorrentes em saúde do familiar da pessoa com Transtorno do Espectro Autista são a percepção da vulnerabilidade do filho, isolamento, depressão e eventos estressantes. Conclusão: portanto, com a investigação das necessidades em saúde do familiar e escuta das narrativas de uma mãe, houve o conhecimento da interação social e dinâmica de vida dessas pessoas

Objectives: to report the experiences and narratives of a woman as a mother of three children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Method: study of a qualitative nature, of the life narrative type. The research was carried out with a mother of three children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, who was being followed up at the Riding Therapy Association of Alagoas. Data were produced from narrative interviews with a research participant. Interviews with one participant were carried out in June and July 2022, in person and individually. Results: it was noticed that the most recurrent health needs of the family member of the person with Autistic Spectrum Disorder are the perception of the child's vulnerability, isolation, depression and stressful events. Conclusion: therefore, with the investigation of the health needs of the family member and listening to the narratives of a mother, there was knowledge of the social interaction and dynamics of these people's lives

Objetivos: relatar y discutir las vivencias y narrativas de una mujer como madre de tres hijos con Trastorno del Espectro Autista. Método: se trata de un estudio cualitativo, narrativo de vida, descriptivo. La investigación fue realizada con una madre de tres niños con Trastorno del Espectro Autista, en seguimiento en la Asociación de Equitación Terapeutica de Alagoas. Los datos se produjeron a partir de entrevistas narrativas con el participante de la investigación. Las entrevistas a la madre participante se realizaron en junio y julio de 2022, de forma presencial e individual. Resultados: se percibió que las necesidades de salud más recurrentes del familiar de la persona con Trastorno del Espectro Autista son la percepción de vulnerabilidad del niño, aislamiento, agotamiento, impotencia, depresión, eventos estresantes, entre otros. Ser familiar de una persona con Trastorno del Espectro Autista es un reto y tiene un impacto significativo en la vida, trayendo consigo una gran carga de trabajo. Conclusión: por lo tanto, con la investigación de las necesidades de salud de la familia y la escucha de las narrativas de una madre, se tuvo conocimiento de la interacción social y dinámica de vida de estas personas, sobre sus vivencias y cómo cada evento en su existencia se refleja directamente en el curso de sus vidas, tu vida hasta ahora

Telehealth for Parkinson disease patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: the TeleParkinson study.

BACKGROUND: Telemedicine allows Parkinson disease (PD) patients to overcome physical barriers to access health care services and increases accessibility for people with mobility impairments. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility indicators of a telehealth intervention for PD patients, including patient recruitment, attendance, technical issues, satisfaction, and benefits on levels of physical activity and sleep. METHODS: We conducted a single-center, single-arm study of telehealth video consultations using WhatsApp (Meta Platforms, Inc., Menlo Park, CA, USA). Also, we collected the feasibility indicators as the primary endpoints. All the patients in the study were previously evaluated in person by the same team. RESULTS: Patient recruitment, attendance, and technical issues rates were 61.3%, 90.5%, and 13.3%, respectively, with good scores of patient acceptance and satisfaction with the study intervention. The telehealth intervention improved physical activity, including the number of walks for at least 10 continuous minutes (p = 0.009) and the number of moderate-intensity activities lasting at least 10 continuous minutes (p = 0.001). The Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) scores also improved for one of its components: perceived sleep duration (p < 0.001) and for total Pittsburgh score (p < 0,001). The average travel time saving was 289.6 minutes, and money-saving was R$106.67 (around USD 18; almost 10% of the current minimum wage in Brazil). CONCLUSIONS: Direct-to-patient telehealth video consultations proved to be feasible and effective and had a positive impact on physical activity levels and sleep in PD patients.

ANTECEDENTES: A telemedicina permite que pacientes com doença de Parkinson (DP) superem barreiras físicas para acessar serviços de saúde e aumenta a acessibilidade para pessoas com mobilidade reduzida. OBJETIVO: Investigar indicadores de viabilidade de uma intervenção em telessaúde para pacientes com DP, incluindo recrutamento, atendimento, aderência, problemas técnicos, satisfação e benefícios nos níveis de atividade física e sono. MéTODOS: Foi conduzido um estudo de centro e braço únicos baseado em consultas por telessaúde com utilização do WhatsApp (Meta Platforms, Inc., Menlo Park, CA, EUA). Foram calculados indicadores de viabilidade como desfechos primários. RESULTADOS: As taxas de recrutamento, atendimento e problemas técnicos foram 61,3%, 90,5% e 13,3%, respectivamente, com bons escores de aceitação e satisfação com a intervenção. A intervenção melhorou os níveis de atividade física, incluindo o número de passos por pelo menos 10 minutos contínuos (p = 0,009) e o número de atividades intensas e moderadas com duração de pelo menos 10 minutos contínuos (p = 0,001). O Índice de Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburgh melhorou nos seguintes componentes: duração percebida do sono (p < 0,001) e escore total (p < 0,001). A média do tempo de viagem médio poupado foi de 289,6 minutos, e a economia financeira foi de R$ 106,67 reais (por volta de USD 18; quase 10% do salário mínimo atual do Brasil). CONCLUSõES: As consultas por vídeo provaram ser viáveis e efetivas, com impacto positivo nos níveis de atividade física e sono de pacientes com DP.

Effect of Polydextrose on the Growth of Pediococcus pentosaceus as Well as Lactic Acid and Bacteriocin-like Inhibitory Substances (BLIS) Production.

Pediococcus pentosaceus was cultivated in MRS medium supplemented or not with polydextrose under different conditions in order to evaluate its effect on cell growth, lactic acid and bacteriocin-like inhibitory substance (BLIS) production. Independent variables were pH (4.0, 5.0, 6.0), rotational speed (50, 100, 150 rpm), polydextrose concentration (0.5, 1.0, 1.5%) and temperature (25, 30, 35 °C), while cell concentration and productivity after 24 h, maximum specific growth rate, specific rate of substrate (glucose) consumption, volumetric and specific lactic acid productivities, yields of biomass and lactic acid on consumed substrate were the dependent. The maximum cell concentration (10.24 ± 0.16 gX L-1) and productivity (0.42 ± 0.01 gX L-1 h-1) were achieved at pH 6.0, 35 °C, 150 rpm using 1.5% polydextrose, while the maximum specific growth rate (0.99 ± 0.01 h-1) and yield of biomass (2.96 ± 0.34 gX gS-1) were achieved at the same pH and polydextrose concentration, but at 25 °C and 50 rpm. The specific substrate consumption rate (0.09 ± 0.02 gS gX-1 h-1) and the volumetric lactic acid productivity (0.44 ± 0.02 gP L-1 h-1) were maximized at pH 6.0, 35 °C, 50 rpm and 0.5% polydextrose. BLIS produced in this last run displayed the highest antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, while the same activity was displayed against Enterococcus faecium using 1.5% polydextrose. These results appear to be quite promising in view of possible production of this BLIS as an antibacterial agent in the food industry.

Fertility preservation: knowledge, awareness, and attitude of university students and professors.

BACKGROUND: Delayed pregnancy is a worldwide trend, especially in Western countries. University students and professors are at high risk of presenting age-related reproductive difficulties due to this new reproductive profile. Thus, through this study, we aimed at exploring the knowledge, awareness, and attitude of university students and professors related to fertility and fertility preservation (FP). METHODS: We adopted a prospective cross-sectional study design and included students and professors from private university located in the Northeast of Brazil. Eligible participants (male and female) were invited through an online message. The participants accessed the online questionnaire through a link. RESULTS: We performed 256 surveys (100 students and 156 professors). The overall mean age of participants was 35.8 ± 13.1 years (from 18 to 67 years). Fertility was considered relevant by all participants, being very important among a greater number of students compared to professors, 61% versus 30.1%, p < 0.001, respectively. The main reasons why participants could have postponed parenthood were reach financial stability (62.1%), career building (51.2%), health issues (37.9%), and not having a partner (33.9%). Students demonstrated a better understanding of FP and highlighted the importance of the age of females at the time of the oocyte cryopreservation. Very few students and professors already discussed reproductive planning with a health professional. CONCLUSIONS: We observed a deficiency in the knowledge of Brazilian university students and professors about female fertility and FP options. Thus, exposing the population to information related to FP should be hyped in the university environment.

Telehealth for Parkinson disease patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: the TeleParkinson study / Telesaúde para pacientes com doença de Parkinson durante a pandemia de COVID-19: o estudo TeleParkinson

Abstract Background Telemedicine allows Parkinson disease (PD) patients to overcome physical barriers to access health care services and increases accessibility for people with mobility impairments. Objective To investigate the feasibility indicators of a telehealth intervention for PD patients, including patient recruitment, attendance, technical issues, satisfaction, and benefits on levels of physical activity and sleep. Methods We conducted a single-center, single-arm study of telehealth video consultations using WhatsApp (Meta Platforms, Inc., Menlo Park, CA, USA). Also, we collected the feasibility indicators as the primary endpoints. All the patients in the study were previously evaluated in person by the same team. Results Patient recruitment, attendance, and technical issues rates were 61.3%, 90.5%, and 13.3%, respectively, with good scores of patient acceptance and satisfaction with the study intervention. The telehealth intervention improved physical activity, including the number of walks for at least 10 continuous minutes (p = 0.009) and the number of moderate-intensity activities lasting at least 10 continuous minutes (p = 0.001). The Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) scores also improved for one of its components: perceived sleep duration (p < 0.001) and for total Pittsburgh score (p < 0,001). The average travel time saving was 289.6 minutes, and money-saving was R$106.67 (around USD 18; almost 10% of the current minimum wage in Brazil). Conclusions Direct-to-patient telehealth video consultations proved to be feasible and effective and had a positive impact on physical activity levels and sleep in PD patients.

Resumo Antecedentes A telemedicina permite que pacientes com doença de Parkinson (DP) superem barreiras físicas para acessar serviços de saúde e aumenta a acessibilidade para pessoas com mobilidade reduzida. Objetivo Investigar indicadores de viabilidade de uma intervenção em telessaúde para pacientes com DP, incluindo recrutamento, atendimento, aderência, problemas técnicos, satisfação e benefícios nos níveis de atividade física e sono. Métodos Foi conduzido um estudo de centro e braço únicos baseado em consultas por telessaúde com utilização do WhatsApp (Meta Platforms, Inc., Menlo Park, CA, EUA). Foram calculados indicadores de viabilidade como desfechos primários. Resultados As taxas de recrutamento, atendimento e problemas técnicos foram 61,3%, 90,5% e 13,3%, respectivamente, com bons escores de aceitação e satisfação com a intervenção. A intervenção melhorou os níveis de atividade física, incluindo o número de passos por pelo menos 10 minutos contínuos (p = 0,009) e o número de atividades intensas e moderadas com duração de pelo menos 10 minutos contínuos (p = 0,001). O Índice de Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburgh melhorou nos seguintes componentes: duração percebida do sono (p < 0,001) e escore total (p < 0,001). A média do tempo de viagem médio poupado foi de 289,6 minutos, e a economia financeira foi de R$ 106,67 reais (por volta de USD 18; quase 10% do salário mínimo atual do Brasil). Conclusões As consultas por vídeo provaram ser viáveis e efetivas, com impacto positivo nos níveis de atividade física e sono de pacientes com DP.

[Prevalence and factors associated with subjective cognitive complaints in Latin American health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic]. / Prevalencia y factores asociados con las quejas cognitivas subjetivas del personal sanitario latinoamericano durante la pandemia de COVID-19.

Background and objectives: An increase in emotional disturbances and complaints about cognitive performance has been observed in Latin American healthcare workers during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, which can affect attention capacity and increase the levels of stress and burnout of these professionals. The objective was to analyse subjective cognitive complaints (SCC) and associated factors in health personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic in five Latin American countries.Methods: Multicentre cross-sectional study, which included 3,738 professionals from Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to assess depression, and the Mini-Z to assess Burnout. For the SCC, an item on cognitive concerns in attention and memory was used.Results: The prevalence of cognitive complaints was 69.2%. The factors associated with a higher risk of SCC were the scores in the GAD-7, PHQ and Mini-Z, in addition to being part of the Ecuadorian health personnel.Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of SCC in health personnel, which is modulated by emotional states and stress.

Clinical utility of Phototest via teleneuropsychology in Chilean rural older adults / Utilidade clínica do phototest via teleneuropsicologia em idosos rurais chilenos

ABSTRACT. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the need for neuropsychological care for older adults with memory complaints in different contexts, including rural areas or areas with difficult access. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the clinical utility of the Phototest, through telemedicine, to identify mild cognitive impairment in rural older adults with memory complaints, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional, case-control, and clinical utility comparison of brief cognitive tests (BCTs). The sample included 111 rural elderly people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 130 healthy controls from the Los Lagos region, Chile. The instruments adopted were modified Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSEm) and adapted version of the Phototest (PT) for Chile. Results: To identify mild cognitive impairment, using a cutoff score of 27-28 points, the Phototest showed a sensitivity of 96.6% and a specificity of 81.8%; indicators superior to those of the MMSEm. Conclusions: The Phototest is more accurate than the MMSEm in identifying cognitive alterations in rural older adults with cognitive memory complaints through telemedicine. Therefore, its use in primary care is recommended in order to perform early detection of preclinical cognitive alterations in mild cognitive impairment or neurodegenerative diseases.

RESUMO. A pandemia de COVID-19 mostrou a necessidade de cuidados neuropsicológicos para adultos idosos com queixas de memória em diferentes contextos, incluindo áreas rurais ou áreas de difícil acesso. Objetivo: Analisar a utilidade clínica do Phototest, por meio da telemedicina, para identificar uma leve deficiência cognitiva em adultos idosos rurais com queixas de memória, durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: Realizamos uma comparação transversal, caso-controle e utilidade clínica dos testes cognitivos breves. Amostra: Cento e onze idosos rurais com deficiência cognitiva leve (DCL) e 130 controles saudáveis da região de Los Lagos, Chile. Instrumentos: Minimental modificado (MMSEm) e versão do teste fotográfico (PT) adaptada para o Chile. Resultados: Para identificar a DCL, usando pontuação de corte de 27-28 pontos, o Phototest mostrou sensibilidade de 96,6% e especificidade de 81,8%; indicadores superiores aos do MMSEm. Conclusões: O Phototest é mais preciso que o MMSEm para identificar, por meio da telemedicina, alterações cognitivas em adultos idosos rurais com queixas de memória cognitiva. Sendo assim, seu uso na atenção primária é recomendado para realizar a detecção precoce de alterações cognitivas pré-clínicas em DCL ou doenças neurodegenerativas.

Validez del cuestionario PHQ-2 para la detección de depresión en personal sanitario colombiano durante Covid-19 / Validity of the PHQ-2 questionnaire for the detection of depression in Colombian health personnel during Covid-19

RESUMEN: Introducción: La sintomatologia depresiva en profesionales de la salud asociado a crisis virales es de alta prevalencia a nivel global, siendo su detección una prioridad por lo cual, el objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar la validez convergente y consistencia interna del cuestionario de salud del paciente-2 (PHQ-2) en profesionales sanitarios. Método: Estudio eSalud donde se recopilaron datos transversales en línea (n=725), de 281 médicos generales, 237 médicos especialistas y 207 enfermeras durante la cuarentena colombiana, entre el 20 de abril y el 10 de agosto de 2020. Edad promedio 41,3 años (± 8,76). El 38,4% eran hombres (278) y el 61.6% mujeres (447). El 66.1% del personal sanitario atendió pacientes contagiados por coronavirus y el 33,9% no prestó estos servicios. Se administró la versión de 9 ítems del PHQ, validada en población colombiana junto a la versión de 2 ítems del PHQ. Resultados: Se encontró una alta correlación entre las escalas (r=.860, P<0.001), demostrando la validez convergente del PHQ-2 para medir la sintomatología depresiva. La consistencia interna del PHQ-2 fue adecuada, con un Alpha de Cronbach de 0.80 (I.C.= 0.76 - 0.83). Conclusiones: El PHQ-2 presenta adecuados estándares psicométricos de confiabilidad y validez, por lo que su rápida administración, fácil calificación e interpretación, lo convierte en un instrumento confiable y valido para la detección rápida, sin sobrecargas laborales, de los síntomas depresivos en médicos y enfermeras que atiendan o no pacientes en condiciones de brotes virales.

ABSTRACT Background: Depressive symptomatology in health professionals associated with viral crises is highly prevalent globally, being its detection a priority. Therefore, the objective of this research was to analyze the convergent validity and internal consistency of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2) in healthcare professionals. Method: E-Health study where cross-sectional data was collected online (n = 725), from 281 general practitioners, 237 specialist doctors and 207 nurses during the Colombian quarantine, between April 20 and August 10, 2020. Average age 41.3 years (± 8.76). 38.4% were men (278) and 61.6% women (447). 66.1% of health personnel treated patients infected with coronavirus and 33.9% did not provide these services. The 9-item version of the PHQ was administered, validated in the Colombian population together with the 2-item version of the PHQ. Results: A high correlation was found between the scales (r = .860, P <0.001), demonstrating the convergent validity of the PHQ-2 to measure depressive symptomatology. The internal consistency of the PHQ-2 was adequate, with a Cronbach's Alpha of 0.80 (I.C. = 0.76 - 0.83). Conclusions: The PHQ-2 has adequate psychometric standards of reliability and validity, so its rapid administration, easy qualification and interpretation, makes it a reliable and valid instrument for the rapid detection, without work overload, of depressive symptoms in doctors and nurses whether or not they care for patients with viral outbreaks.