Self-reported bruxism in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder.

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to investigate the association between self-reported awake/sleep bruxism, and orofacial pain with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS: A case-control study with a convenience sample was designed. Participants were recruited from a university-based Trauma Ambulatory. The diagnosis of PTSD was established through a clinical interview and the Structured Clinical Interview (SCID-I/P). Thirty-eight PTSD patients and 38 controls completed the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders Axis-II to categorize awake/sleep bruxism and orofacial pain. Following this, we performed a short clinical examination of the temporomandibular joint and extraoral muscles. RESULTS: Adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that awake bruxism was associated with PTSD (OR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.01-11.27, p = 0.047). Sleep bruxism was not associated with any covariate included in the model. In a Poisson regression model, PTSD (IRR = 3.01, 95% CI = 1.38-6.55, p = 0.005) and the muscle pain/discomfort (IRR = 5.12, 95% CI = 2.80-9.36, p < 0.001) were significant predictors for current orofacial pain. CONCLUSIONS: PTSD was associated with self-reported awake bruxism and low-intensity orofacial pain. These conditions were frequent outcomes in patients previously exposed to traumatic events. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: We suggest including a two-question screening for bruxism in psychiatry/psychology interviews to improve under-identification and to prevent harmful consequences at the orofacial level.

VALIDITY OF THE BRAZILIAN-PORTUGUESE VERSION OF MOOREHEAD-ARDELT QUALITY OF LIFE QUESTIONNAIRE II AMONG PATIENTS WITH SEVERE OBESITY.

BACKGROUND: Patients with obesity present multiple comorbid psychiatric conditions and experience impairments in health-related quality of life. Reliable and valid tools that evaluate health-related quality of life are essential for clinical practice. AIMS: This study aimed to investigate the reliability and validity of the six-item Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II among Brazilian patients with severe obesity. METHODS: We assessed 387 patients (mean age 43 years, 78.8% women, mean body mass index of 46.5 kg/m²) on the waiting list of a bariatric surgery center. Trained research assistants concurrently applied the Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II, the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, and the Global Assessment of Functioning for assessing health-related quality of life, comorbid depressive symptoms, and patient functioning level, respectively. RESULTS: The internal consistency of the Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II was considered acceptable. The total score was correlated with the severity of depressive symptoms and functioning level. The more body mass index increases, the more health-related quality of life worsens. The Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II presented a unidimensional structure. CONCLUSIONS: The unidimensional Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II is a reliable and valid measure for evaluating health-related quality of life in Brazilian patients with severe obesity. The questionnaire allows to quickly assess the health-related quality of life of patients in different bariatric contexts, considering depression and functional level.

Interpersonal psychotherapy for treatment of obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Social and interpersonal context are associated with the onset and persistence of psychiatric disorders. We compared the effects of short-term interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) on weight loss, binge eating behaviors, and depressive symptoms against cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), health education (HE), and behavioral weight loss (BWL). METHODS: We searched until May 28th, 2022 following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Science Direct, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Scopus. Articles on parallel randomized clinical trials were included. Outcomes were body mass index (BMI), binge days (bulimic episode), and depressive symptoms. These outcomes were self-reported or measured with specific scales (BMI) or instrument (depressive symptoms). RESULTS: The initial search retrieved 820 articles, a total of 10 studies met the eligibility criteria, and seven were included in the meta-analysis. Participants with overweight/obesity were women (62-100 %), aged between 11 and 50 years. There was a trivial to small effect on BMI favoring IPT over other interventions (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.10; 95%CI: -0.27 to 0.07, I2 = 0 %), especially when compared to health education (SMD = -0.21; 95%CI: -0.54 to 0.12, I2 = 0 %); no effect on number of binge days (SMD = -0.09; 95%CI: -0.30 to 0.11, I2 = 0 %); and a small effect on depressive symptoms (SMD = -0.25, 95%CI = -0.50 to 0.00, I2 = 0 %). LIMITATIONS: Small number of studies, the discrepancy in age cohorts, and racial diversity. Psychotherapeutic protocols and assessment tools had to be adapted across studies. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with overweight/obesity and depression had some benefit from IPT when compared with other interventions. In view of existing evidence, an IPT program adapted to obesity could help to achieve reliable and long-term effects.

Validity of the brazilian-portuguese version of moorehead-ardelt quality of life questionnaire ii among patients with severe obesity / Validade da versão em português-brasileiro do questionário moorehead-ardelt quality of life-ii em pacientes com obesidade grave

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Patients with obesity present multiple comorbid psychiatric conditions and experience impairments in health-related quality of life. Reliable and valid tools that evaluate health-related quality of life are essential for clinical practice. AIMS: This study aimed to investigate the reliability and validity of the six-item Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II among Brazilian patients with severe obesity. METHODS: We assessed 387 patients (mean age 43 years, 78.8% women, mean body mass index of 46.5 kg/m²) on the waiting list of a bariatric surgery center. Trained research assistants concurrently applied the Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II, the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, and the Global Assessment of Functioning for assessing health-related quality of life, comorbid depressive symptoms, and patient functioning level, respectively. RESULTS: The internal consistency of the Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II was considered acceptable. The total score was correlated with the severity of depressive symptoms and functioning level. The more body mass index increases, the more health-related quality of life worsens. The Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II presented a unidimensional structure. CONCLUSIONS: The unidimensional Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II is a reliable and valid measure for evaluating health-related quality of life in Brazilian patients with severe obesity. The questionnaire allows to quickly assess the health-related quality of life of patients in different bariatric contexts, considering depression and functional level.

RESUMO RACIONAL: Pacientes com obesidade apresentam múltiplas condições psiquiátricas comórbidas e experienciam prejuízos na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde. Ferramentas confiáveis e válidas que avaliam a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde são essenciais para a prática clínica. OBJETIVOS: Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a confiabilidade e validade do Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II de seis itens entre pacientes com obesidade grave. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 387 pacientes (idade média de 43 anos, 78,8% mulheres, índice de massa corporal (IMC) médio de 46,5 kg/m², na lista de espera de um centro cirurgia bariátrica. Assistentes de pesquisa treinados aplicaram simultaneamente o Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II, a Escala de Depressão de Montgomery-Åsberg e a Avaliação Global do Funcionamento para avaliar, respectivamente, a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde, os sintomas depressivos comórbidos e o nível funcional do paciente. RESULTADOS: A consistência interna do Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II foi considerada aceitável. A pontuação total do Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II foi correlacionada com a gravidade dos sintomas depressivos e nível funcional. Quanto maior o IMC, menor a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde. O Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II apresentou uma estrutura unidimensional. CONCLUSÕES: O questionário Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life-II unidimensional é confiável e válido na avaliação da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em pacientes brasileiros com obesidade grave. O questionário permite avaliar rapidamente a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde dos pacientes em diferentes contextos, considerando depressão e nível funcional.

Relationships between worry and depressive symptoms during two group therapies for generalized anxiety disorder / A inter-relação entre preocupações e sintomas depressivos em adultos com ansiedade generalizada

OBJECTIVE: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic and disabling disorder associated with various impairments and shows a significant prevalence in the worldwide and Brazilian populations. This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal relationship of two symptoms relevant to the disorder (worry and depressive symptoms) in the context of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) by using a cross-lagged panel model (CLPM) analysis. METHODS: A total of 92 adult patients with GAD were randomized to receive ten sessions of either acceptance­based group behavioral therapy (ABBT) or nondirective supportive group therapy (NDST). Treatment had four time-point measures. Worries were measured using the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ), and depression was measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-D). RESULTS: The NDST model revealed significant paths from worry to depression (first wave) and from depression to worry (second wave). There was no other significant cross-lagged effect. These data show that there was an influence between symptoms only during one of the treatment groups, and without a homogeneous and constant pattern in any of the cross-lagged routes. CONCLUSION: A supportive group psychotherapy potentially interferes with the pattern of the direct relationship between worries and depressive symptoms in adults with GAD.

OBJETIVO: O transtorno de ansiedade generalizada (TAG) é um diagnóstico crônico e incapacitante, associado a diversos prejuízos e com relevante prevalência na população mundial e na brasileira. Este estudo tem por objetivo investigar a relação longitudinal de duas manifestações relevantes para o transtorno (preocupação e sintomas depressivos), utilizando uma análise cross-lagged panel model (CLPM) por meio de dados de um ensaio clínico randomizado (ECR). MÉTODOS: Um total de 92 pacientes adultos com TAG foi randomizado para duas psicoterapias em grupo: terapia comportamental baseada em aceitação (TCBA) ou terapia de apoio não diretiva (TAND). Cada grupo teve duração de 10 sessões, distribuídas em 14 semanas. O tratamento teve quatro tempos de medida: linha de base, meio do tratamento, pós-tratamento e seguimento de três meses. As variáveis investigadas foram: preocupações, medidas pelo Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ), e sintomas depressivos, medidos pela Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-D). Os modelos CLMP foram gerados pelo programa Mplus. RESULTADOS: O modelo do grupo TAND revelou duas rotas significativas: preocupação para sintomas depressivos (primeira onda) e sintomas depressivos para preocupação (segunda onda). Não houve outro efeito cross-lagged que obteve significância estatística. Esses dados mostram que houve influência alternada entre os sintomas somente durante o período de um dos dois tratamentos testados, configurando um padrão heterogêneo das rotas cross-lagged. CONCLUSÃO: A psicoterapia suportiva em grupo potencialmente interfere no padrão da relação direta entre preocupação e sintomas depressivos em adultos com TAG.

Longitudinal patterns of comorbidity between anxiety, depression and binge eating symptoms among patients with obesity: A path analysis.

BACKGROUND: Depression, anxiety, and binge eating are common psychiatric symptoms among people with obesity. Although many studies seek to understand the mechanisms of association between these psychiatric symptoms, there is no still consensus about the longitudinal association. METHODS: 155 patients (124 women) were recruited from a university-based bariatric center and evaluated over three waves (T0-T1-T2). In the last period the sample comprised 126 (104 women) participants. Trained clinicians assessed psychiatric symptoms by telephone interview using measurement scales. Partial Least Squares (PLS) was applied to investigate the path effects between anxiety, depression and binge eating symptoms over time. RESULTS: The results of path coefficients (ß) showed that the effect of anxiety on depression was constantly significant in all periods T0 (ß = 0.74), T1 (ß = 0.71), and T2 (ß = 0.67). Anxiety had an effect on binge eating in T0 (ß = 0.39) and T2 (ß = 0.26) but not in T1. Binge eating affected depressive symptoms only in T2 (ß = 0.22). Two carry-over-effects were significant binge eating in T0-T1 (ß = 0.41) and T1-T2 (ß = 0.19). LIMITATIONS: Telephone interviews, social isolation due to the pandemic and the social desirability may have contributed to collection and information biases. CONCLUSION: Anxiety has significant path effects on depression and binge eating. Binge eating was shown to be the most unstable symptom over time. The time factor seems to contribute to path effects between the psychiatric symptoms. The results draw attention to the fact that psychiatric symptoms must be evaluated and treated in association with each other, and investigated over time.

Perspectives on a psychiatric outpatient service for immigrants and refugees in São Paulo, Brazil over a 15-year period.

BACKGROUND: Immigrants and refugees have specific mental health needs. Studies of immigrant/refugee psychiatric patients in Latin America are scarce. AIMS: Present the profile of patients from an outpatient psychiatric service in Sao Paulo (Brazil) to better inform mental health service planning for immigrants and refugees in the Global South. METHODS: Exploratory study to characterize the sociodemographic and mental health profile of refugees and immigrants attending outpatient psychiatric service from 2003 to 2018. Chi-square tests and logistic regressions were used to examine the association of demographic variables, exposure to violence, and immigrant status with psychiatric diagnosis. Cluster analysis was used to identify subgroups within the sample. RESULTS: A total of 162 immigrants and refugees referred to the service obtained treatment. Of these patients, 57.4% were men, 59.8% were refugees/asylum seekers, 51.9% were Black, 48.8% were single, 64.2% had 10 years of education, and 57.4% were unemployed; the mean age of the sample was 35.9. Half of the sample (52.5%) was exposed to violence. The most common diagnosis was depression (54.2%), followed by PTSD (16.6%). Approximately 34% of the participants sought psychiatric care within 6 months of arrival. Logistic regressions showed that men had lower odds of presenting with depression (OR = 0.34). Patients with PTSD were more likely to be refugees (OR = 3.9) and not have a university degree (OR = 3.1).In the cluster analysis, a cluster of patients with PTSD included almost all Black refugee men exposed to violence. Most patients diagnosed with psychotic disorders were also Black refugee men. CONCLUSION: Immigrants and refugees represent a vulnerable group. The majority of the sample was Black, refugee men, who were also more likely to present with PTSD. Future studies are needed to better understand issues in treatment adherence in relation to socioeconomic characteristics.

Acceptance and commitment therapy-based behavioral intervention for insomnia: a pilot randomized controlled trial

Objective: To evaluate a protocol for acceptance and commitment therapy-based behavioral intervention for insomnia (ACT-BBI-I) in adults compared to cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). Methods: Forty-five adults with chronic insomnia were randomized to ACT-BBI-I or CBT-I. Both interventions were performed in six weekly group sessions. The common treatment elements in both protocols included stimulus control and sleep restriction. CBT-I is focused on the cognitive restructuring of maladaptive beliefs about sleep and the daytime effects of insomnia. ACT-BBI-I focuses on therapeutic processes of acceptance, availability, values, defusion, and commitment. The results were evaluated through the following instruments: a sleep diary, the Insomnia Severity Index, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II, and the Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep scale. Results: Both interventions had a significant positive impact on sleep patterns, insomnia, anxiety, beliefs about sleep, and psychological flexibility. All improvement was maintained at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: The results suggest that integrating principles of ACT with behavioral techniques may be useful for treating insomnia. Further research should identify whether the principles of ACT result in added effectiveness compared to behavioral components alone. Clinical trial registration: RBR-7nc5wq

Exploratory study on the psychological impact of COVID-19 on the general Brazilian population.

The COVID-19 pandemic has become one of the main international concerns regarding its impact on mental health. The present study aims to investigate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, and behavioral aspects amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in a Brazilian population. An online survey was administered from May 22 to June 5, 2020 using a questionnaire comprising of sociodemographic information, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Coping Strategies Inventory. Participants comprised 3,000 people from Brazil's 26 states and the Federal District, with an average age of 39.8 years, women (83%), married (50.6%), graduates (70.1%) and employees (46.7%). Some contracted the virus (6.4%) and had dead friends or relatives (22.7%). There was more consumption of drugs, tobacco, medication, and food (40.8%). Almost half of participants expressed symptoms of depression (46.4%), anxiety (39.7%), and stress (42.2%). These were higher in women, people without children, students, patients with chronic diseases, and people who had contact with others diagnosed with COVID-19. The existence of a group more vulnerable to situations with a high stress burden requires greater attention regarding mental health during and after the pandemic. That said, it should be emphasized that these findings are preliminary and portray a moment still being faced by many people amid the pandemic and quarantine measures. Therefore, we understand that the magnitude of the impacts on mental health will only be more specific with continuous studies after total relaxation of the quarantine.

Acceptance and commitment therapy-based behavioral intervention for insomnia: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a protocol for acceptance and commitment therapy-based behavioral intervention for insomnia (ACT-BBI-I) in adults compared to cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). METHODS: Forty-five adults with chronic insomnia were randomized to ACT-BBI-I or CBT-I. Both interventions were performed in six weekly group sessions. The common treatment elements in both protocols included stimulus control and sleep restriction. CBT-I is focused on the cognitive restructuring of maladaptive beliefs about sleep and the daytime effects of insomnia. ACT-BBI-I focuses on therapeutic processes of acceptance, availability, values, defusion, and commitment. The results were evaluated through the following instruments: a sleep diary, the Insomnia Severity Index, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II, and the Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep scale. RESULTS: Both interventions had a significant positive impact on sleep patterns, insomnia, anxiety, beliefs about sleep, and psychological flexibility. All improvement was maintained at the 6-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that integrating principles of ACT with behavioral techniques may be useful for treating insomnia. Further research should identify whether the principles of ACT result in added effectiveness compared to behavioral components alone. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR-7nc5wq.

Substance Use Portrayal in Oscar-nominated Movies.

BACKGROUND: As one of the forms of media and art most consumed in the world, Oscar- nominated movies should have their drug use representation monitored because of possibly influencing but also reflecting society's behavior. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to investigate drug use representation in scenes from movies nominated for the Academy Awards (Oscar) from 2008-2011 through media content analysis. METHODS: 437 scenes from Oscar-nominated movies (best film, best actor and best actress categories) showing drug consumption and/or its effects were assessed. Each drug represented and identified in a given scene (i.e., drug use incident) was counted as a unit for the present study (n = 515). Survey settings were used to control for over- or under-estimation of the prevalence of a variable in a given year or movie. RESULTS: All the Oscar-nominated movies portrayed at least one scene of drug use. There was a massive predominance of alcohol and tobacco in movies, with a high use among men who also use drugs, habitually or occasionally, but related to stress/tension, predominantly at home. However, there was a significant progressive increase in the use of drugs other than alcohol and tobacco, multiple drugs, and by women. CONCLUSION: These findings echo epidemiological studies on substance use in western countries, an overall trend towards greater home drug use representation and gender convergence since 1970, which increased since 2000. Monitoring drug use representation in Oscar-nominated movies may represent an important public health tool.

Personality Impairment in Children and Adolescents with ADHD / Comprometimento da Personalidade em Crianças e Adolescentes com TDAH / Deterioro de la Personalidad en Niños y Adolescentes con TDAH

Abstract Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents manifests itself in a heterogeneous manner as regards personality aspects. This study aimed to evaluate, by using the Ego Impairment Index, the personality functioning characteristics of children and adolescents between 9 and 15 years old (to be completed), diagnosed with the disorder (clinical group) and compare them with a non-clinical group. The groups included 42 participants each. The Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children - Present and Lifetime version was used for diagnosis, and the Rorschach Performance Assessment System (R-PAS) was utilized for personality traits. When compared to their peers, the participants in the clinical group showed ability to discern adaptive behaviors through proper judgment, difficulty in keeping thinking and reasoning processes stable, a negative view of themselves and others, in addition to difficulty in establishing cooperative relationships.

Resumo O transtorno da falta de atenção com hiperatividade em crianças e adolescentes manifesta-se de forma heterogênea com relação aos aspectos de personalidade. O presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar, por meio do Índice de Enfraquecimento do Ego, características do funcionamento da personalidade de crianças e adolescentes, entre 9 e 15 anos incompletos, com o diagnóstico do transtorno (grupo clínico) e compará-las com um grupo não-clínico. Os grupos contemplaram 42 participantes cada. Utilizou-se para o diagnóstico a entrevista Kiddie-Sads Referente ao Momento Presente e ao Longo da Vida, e o Sistema de Avaliação por Performance no Rorschach (R-PAS) para as características de personalidade. Os participantes do grupo clínico, quando comparados com seus pares, mostraram capacidade de discernir comportamentos adaptativos por meio de julgamento adequado, dificuldade em manter estáveis os processos de pensamento e raciocínio, visão negativa de si próprios e dos demais, dificuldade para estabelecer relacionamentos cooperativos.

Resumen El trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad es uno de los más encontrados entre las patologías infantiles y se manifiesta de forma no homogénea con relación a los aspectos de personalidad. Este estudio comparó a través de lo Índice de Enflaquecimiento del Ego características de personalidad de niños y adolescentes entre 9 y 15 años incompletos con diagnóstico con un grupo de mismo sexo y edad sin diagnóstico. Cada grupo estaba compuesto por 42 participantes. Se utilizó la entrevista Kiddie-Sads sobre el momento presente y al largo de la vida para el diagnóstico y el Sistema de Evaluación por Performance en el Rorschach (R-PAS), para las características de personalidad. El grupo clínico mostró capacidad para discernir conductas adaptativas a través del juicio adecuado, dificultad para mantener estables los procesos de pensamiento y razonamiento, visión negativa de sí mismos y de los demás, dificultad para establecer relaciones de cooperación.

Cinema brasileiro e o ensino dos transtornos da personalidade / Brazilian cinema and the teaching of personality disorders

Resumo: Introdução: O uso de filmes comerciais em sala de aula é uma prática comum e acessível. A prática de exibição de filmes para o ensino é definida pelo termo cinemeducation. Objetivo: O presente estudo partiu da hipótese de que o cinemeducation, como metodologia ativa, poderia contribuir para o aprendizado dos transtornos da personalidade (TP) na graduação. Foram ministradas aulas presenciais para 213 estudantes de Medicina, Enfermagem, Psicologia, Fisioterapia e Fonoaudiologia, para avaliar o conhecimento desenvolvido sobre TP. Método: O estudo é transversal e quantitativo, composto por amostras pareadas e dependentes (antes e depois). As etapas foram: 1. aplicação de instrumento avaliativo em forma de questionário (antes); 2. aula composta por exibição de cenas de filmes brasileiros e reflexão e discussão sobre elas; 3. aplicação do mesmo questionário (depois); e 4. análise estatística comparativa entre os resultados. Resultados: O método se mostrou efetivo para o processo ensino-aprendizagem, havendo melhora autorreferida no conhecimento dos estudantes após a aula (questão 1) e melhora observável ao identificarem e conceituarem os TP (questão 3). Além disso, os estudantes referiram, em média, que a estratégia contribuía para a aprendizagem, antes da aula, e mantiveram em média essa opinião, depois (questão 2). Conclusões: Alcançou-se o objetivo proposto porque se utilizou amostra estatisticamente significativa de estudantes, e os resultados confirmaram que o método é efetivo para o ensino. Além disso, a discussão evidenciou que o uso dos filmes pode contribuir para o o aprendizado, condizendo com as características de estudantes da geração atual, uma vez que valoriza o uso de tecnologias em sala de aula e permite o aprendizado crítico-reflexivo e a participação ativa dos sujeitos. As limitações do estudo se referem à escassez de filmes brasileiros contemporâneos que exemplifiquem todos os TP, não havendo cenas representativas para TP esquizotípica, dependente e esquiva. Além disso, considera-se necessário estudo comparativo entre o método tradicional de ensino dos TP e o cinemeducation, de forma a investigar a eficácia deste quando comparado às aulas tradicionais.

Abstract: Introduction: The use of commercial films in the classroom is a common and accessible practice. The practice of showing films for teaching is defined by the term cinemeducation. Objective: The present study was based on the hypothesis that cinemeducation, as an active methodology, could contribute to the learning of Personality Disorders (PD) during undergraduate training. Face-to-face classes were given to 213 students of medicine, nursing, psychology, physiotherapy and speech therapy, to assess the knowledge developed about PD. Method: The study is cross-sectional and quantitative, composed of paired and dependent samples (before and after). The steps were: a) application of an assessment tool in the form of a questionnaire (before); b) class, consisting of exhibition, reflection and discussion of scenes from Brazilian films, c) application of the same questionnaire (after), and d) comparative statistical analysis between the results. Results: The results showed that the method is effective for the teaching-learning process, with self-reported improvement in students' knowledge after class (question 1), and an observable improvement when identifying and conceptualizing PD (question 3). Furthermore, students reported, on average, that the strategy contributed to learning, before class, and they maintained that opinion, on average, afterwards (question 2). Conclusions: The proposed objective was achieved by using a statistically significant sample of students and the results confirmed that the method is effective for teaching. The discussion showed that the use of films can improve learning, and it is consistent with the characteristics of students of the actual generation, since it values the use of technologies in the classroom, allowing critical-reflective teaching and the active student participation. The limitations of the study include the scarcity of contemporary Brazilian films that exemplify all PDs, with no representative scenes for schizotypical, dependent and avoidant PD. Furthermore, a comparative study between the traditional method of teaching PD and cinemeducation is considered necessary in order to investigate its effectiveness when compared to traditional classes.

O lugar dos ensaios clínicos aleatorizados na pesquisa em psicoterapia: uma crítica epistemológica / The place of Randomized Clinical Trials in psychotherapy research: an epistemological critique / La place des essais cliniques randomisé dans la recherche en psychothérapie: une critique épistémologique / El lugar de los Ensayos Clínicos Aleatorizados en la investigación en psicoterapia: una crítica epistemológica

Resumo O Ensaio Clínico Aleatorizado (ECA) é considerado o tipo de desenho metodológico com maior poder de verificação da eficácia das psicoterapias. Entretanto, especialmente a partir da segunda metade do século XX, muitas críticas direcionadas às concepções epistemológicas subjacentes às ditas "ciências duras" atingiram também, no âmbito das ciências da saúde, os estudos que adotavam esse desenho. Este artigo é uma reflexão crítica sobre algumas das objeções feitas aos ECAs, avaliando de que maneira e até que ponto estes poderiam se configurar como estratégia válida de investigação científica no contexto crítico apontado. Conclui-se que o ECA pode e deve ser utilizado - desde que em contexto crítico - por seu valor pragmático, enquanto produtor de predições e intervenções capazes de solucionar problemas clínicos, inevitavelmente definidos e estabelecidos a partir do ponto de vista particular de uma comunidade.

Abstract The randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) is considered the type of methodological design with the greatest power to verify the efficacy of psychotherapies. However, especially from the second half of the twentieth century, many criticisms directed at the epistemological conceptions underlying the so-called "hard sciences" have also affected the studies that adopted this design. This article is a critical reflection on some of the objections made to randomized clinical trials, evaluating how and to what extent these trials could be configured as a valid scientific research strategy in this critical context. We concluded that the RCT should be used - as long as it is performed in a critical context - due to its pragmatic value, as a producer of predictions and interventions capable of solving clinical problems, inevitably defined and established from the particular point of view of a community.

Résumé L'essai clinique randomisé est considéré comme le type de conception méthodologique ayant le plus puissant pour vérifier l'efficacité des psychothérapies. Cependant, surtout depuis la seconde moitié du XXe siècle, de nombreuses critiques adressées aux conceptions épistémologiques qui sous-tendent les sciences dites « dures ¼ ont également affecté, dans le cadre des sciences de la santé, les études qui ont adopté cette conception. Cet article est une réflexion critique sur certaines des objections faites aux essais cliniques randomisés, évaluant comment et dans quelle mesure ceux-ci pourraient être configurés comme une stratégie valide de recherche scientifique dans le contexte critique signalé. On en conclu que l'ECA peut et doit être utilisé - à condition que ce soit dans un contexte critique - pour sa valeur pragmatique, en tant que producteur de prédictions et d'interventions capables de résoudre des problèmes cliniques, inévitablement définies et établies du point de vue particulier d'une communauté.

Resumen El ensayo clínico aleatorizado (ECA) se considera el tipo de diseño metodológico con mayor poder para verificar la eficacia de las psicoterapias. Sin embargo, especialmente desde la segunda mitad del siglo XX, muchas críticas dirigidas a las concepciones epistemológicas subyacentes a las llamadas "ciencias duras" también han afectado, dentro del alcance de las ciencias de la salud, los estudios que adoptan este diseño. Este artículo es una reflexión crítica sobre algunas de las objeciones hechas a los ECA, evaluando cómo y en qué medida podrían configurarse como una estrategia de investigación científica válida en este contexto crítico. Se concluye que el ECA puede y debe usarse, siempre y cuando se encuentre en un contexto crítico, por su valor pragmático como productor de predicciones e intervenciones capaces de resolver los problemas clínicos inevitablemente definidos y establecidos desde el punto de vista particular de una comunidade.

Perfil de pacientes com diagnóstico de transtorno de estresse pós-traumático atendidos em um ambulatório de ansiedade e trauma / Profile of patients diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder treated at an anxiety and trauma outpatient clinic

Introdução: o transtorno de estresse pós-traumático se caracteriza pela ação de ansiedade extrema a um evento externo, o que coloca a vida da pessoa em risco, sob a forma de ameaça direta ou testemunho do evento traumático. Objetivo: descrever o perfil sociodemográfico e clínico de pacientes com transtorno de estresse pós-traumático, atendidos em um ensaio clínico no Programa de Ansiedade, da Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade de São Paulo. Metodologia: noventa e cinco pacientes com idade entre 18 e 65 anos, que apresentavam o diagnóstico desse transtorno, foram avaliados individualmente por psiquiatras, no período de janeiro de 2014 a março de 2015. As variáveis estudadas foram: sexo, idade, nível educacional, religião, tempo com o transtorno, uso de medicação, comorbidades psiquiátricas e tipo de evento traumático. Resultados ­ A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 41,7 anos, sendo 80% do sexo feminino, 53,7% solteiros ou divorciados, 43% católicos e 87,4% usavam algum tipo de medicação antes do diagnóstico. Conclusão: destaca-se que o transtorno de estresse pós-traumático é mais comum no sexo feminino e que a presença de comorbidades é frequente, sendo recorrente o transtorno de ansiedade generalizada, o transtorno depressivo maior e a agorafobia, o que piora o prognóstico. Dados relevantes da literatura foram discutidos.

Introduction: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is characterized by the reaction of extreme anxiety to an external event that puts the person's life at risk in the form of a direct threat or testimony to the traumatic event. Objective: describing the socio-demographic and clinical profile of patients with PTSD treated in a clinical trial in the Anxiety Program of the Medical School of the University of São Paulo. Methodology: ninety-five patients aged between 18 and 65 years, who had a diagnosis of PTSD assessed individually by psychiatrists, from January 2014 to March 2015. The variables studied were: sex, age, educational level and religion, time with the disorder, medication use, psychiatric comorbidities and type of traumatic event. Results: mean age was 41.7 years, 80% female, 53.7% were single or divorced, 43% Catholic and 87.4% of patients used some type of medication prior to diagnosis. Conclusion: it is noteworthy that PTSD is more common in females and that the presence of comorbidities is frequent, with generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder and agoraphobia being common, which worsens the prognosis. Relevant data from the literature were discussed.

Efficacy of an acceptance-based group behavioral therapy for generalized anxiety disorder.

BACKGROUND: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) shows the weakest treatment response among anxiety disorders. This study aimed at examining whether an acceptance-based group behavioral therapy (ABBT) for patients in a Brazilian anxiety disorders program, combining mindfulness and exposure strategies, can improve clinical outcome when compared with a standard nondirective supportive group therapy (NDST). METHODS: Ninety-two individuals diagnosed with GAD were randomized to receive 10 sessions of either ABBT or NDST. Assessments at pretreatment, midtreatment, posttreatment, and 3-month follow-up comprised the following outcome measures: Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ), Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), and the Clinical Global Impressions (CGI). The World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) was administered at pretreatment and posttreatment. RESULTS: The mixed-effects regression models for DASS-stress, Hamilton Anxiety Interview, and CGI showed a significant effect for Time and the Time × Treatment effect, but not for the Treatment main effect. Similarly, there was a significant Time × Treatment effect for the PSWQ, but not main effects of Time or Treatment. Altogether, these data indicate that symptoms decreased in both conditions across treatment and follow-up, and that the rate of change was more rapid for those participants in the ABBT condition. We found no differences between groups from pretreatment to posttreatment in DASS-anxiety or any secondary outcome measure, but for the physical health domain of WHOQOL, which was faster in ABBT. CONCLUSIONS: Both groups showed good clinical outcomes, but in general, participants of the ABBT group improved faster than those in the NDST group.

Predictors of quality of life in Brazilian medical students: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To examine predictors associated with quality of life (QoL) in Brazilian medical students. Methods: PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, LILACS, and Google Scholar were searched for research articles in English or Portuguese published through August 2018. Observational studies that measured QoL with standard instruments were selected. Three instruments were used to evaluate QoL: the World Health Organization QoL questionnaires (WHOQOL-Bref and WHOQOL-100) and 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Hedges' g was used to calculate effect sizes. A random-effects model was used in meta-analyses. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Results: The initial search retrieved 8,504 articles; 24 met the eligibility criteria for systematic review, and seven for meta-analyses of gender (n=3,402 students). Predictors of QoL such as gender, years of medical school(years of study), economic class, educational environment, academic efficacy, depression, burnout, resilience, empathic concern, sleep difficulties, chronic illness, body mass index, and leisure-time physical activity were identified in the systematic review. The most frequent predictors of QoL detected in Brazilian medical students were associated with gender and years of study. Conclusions: Female medical students had lower QoL scores in the physical health and psychological domains of WHOQOL-Bref compared to male students. Specific interventions should be designed for this group as appropriate. Systematic review registry number: PROSPERO CRD-42018102259.