Manifest anxiety and quality of life in schoolchildren with ADHD during confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic generated by COVID-19 forced the governments of all countries to enter into quarantine, modifying the daily coexistence among family members.

Ansiedad manifiesta y calidad de vida en escolares con TDAH durante el confinamiento por la pandemia del COVID-19 / Manifest anxiety and quality of life in schoolchildren with adhd during covid-19 pandemic confinement

La pandemia generada por COVID-19 obligó a los gobiernos de todos los países entrar en cuarentena, modificando la convivencia diaria entre los miembros de la familia. Objetivo. Evaluar la Ansiedad manifiesta y la Calidad de vida en escolares con TDAH durante el confinamiento por la pandemia del COVID-19.Método. Estudio transversal comparativo, observacional, no experimental de 105 escolares con TDAH y 80 formado por el Grupo Control evaluados con la Escala de Ansiedad manifiesta en niños Revisada (CMAS-R). Y la calidad de vida con el cuestionario (AUQUEI).Los escolares fueron diagnosticados con TDAH en el Laboratorio de Neurociencias del Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación, y tratados con terapia Cognitivo Conductual (TCC)para control de sus síntomas conductuales, antes de la Pandemia y fueron invitados a través del consentimiento informado de sus padres a participar en esta investigación. Resultados. El cuestionario CMAS-R mostró diferencias significativas en sus cinco dimensiones entre los grupos con diferente subtipo de TDAH y el grupo control. Y el cuestionario AUQUEI mostró diferencias en 4 de sus 5 dimensiones entre escolares con y grupo control 3 de 5 factores entre los subtipos combinado e hiperactivo impulsivo y grupo control y entre el subtipo combinado y el hiperactivo Impulsivo. Hubo correlaciones entre: Ocio, Ansiedad Fisiológica, Calidad de vida total e Inquietud/Hipersensibilidad; así como entre Separación, Rendimientos y Ansiedad total en el subtipo TDAH-Combinado y Grupo Control. Conclusiones. Se observó aumento en los indicadores de ansiedad y disminución en su calidad de vida, en los escolares con TDAH. (AU)

The pandemic generated by COVID-19 forced the governments of all countries to enter into quarantine,modifying the daily coexistence among family members. Objective: To evaluate manifest anxiety and quality oflife in school children with ADHD during confinement due tothe COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. Comparative, observational, non-experimental cross-sectional study of 105 schoolchildren with ADHD and80 in the Control Group evaluated with the “Manifest Anxiety in Children Scale-Revised (CMAS-R)”. And the quality oflife with the questionnaire (AUQUEI).The school children were diagnosed with ADHD in the Neurosciences Laboratory of the National Rehabilitation Institute, and treated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)to control their behavioral symptoms, before the Pandemicand were invited through the informed consent of their parents to participate in this research. Results. The CMAS-R questionnaire showed significant differences in its five dimensions between the groups withdifferent ADHD subtypes and the control group. And the AUQUEI questionnaire showed differences in 4 of its 5 dimensions between school children with and control group 3of 5 factors between the combined and hyperactive impulsive subtypes and control group and between the combined subtype and the hyperactive impulsive subtype. There were correlations between: Leisure, Physiological Anxiety, Total Quality of Life and Restlessness/Hypersensitivity; as well as between Separation, Achievement and TotalAnxiety in the ADHD-Combined subtype and Control Group. Conclusions. An increase in anxiety indicators and a decrease in their quality of life were observed in schoolchildren with ADHD. (AU)

Formación deportiva en estudiantes con discapacidades, una experiencia en la escuela especial "28 de Enero"

El deporte adaptado, referido al término de actividad física con niños que presentan algún tipo de discapacidad, tiene una evolución histórica relevante, pues desde sus orígenes enfrenta altos retos. Es reconocido que en escuelas de nivel internacional y específicamente en Cuba, se realizan esfuerzos por potenciar la inclusión en el deporte; sin embargo, se considera que todavía son insuficientes las propuestas que, desde el punto de vista científico y metodológico, sustentan el aprovechamiento de las competencias y el desarrollo de habilidades en las personas con discapacidad. Es por ello, que se propone como objetivo de este trabajo visualizar la captación de niños con potencialidades para practicar deportes, desde la Educación Física, en la escuela especial "28 de Enero". En esta investigación, se aplicó una encuesta a los estudiantes sobre sus gustos en materia de deporte y se realizó una caracterización, a partir de aplicación de test que midió la discapacidad intelectual y la discapacidad físico-motor en ellos. Los datos, de forma general, revelaron que con dedicación, superación y trabajo en equipo se pueden obtener resultados satisfactorios no solo en el rendimiento deportivo, sino en la autoestima y calidad de vida en estos estudiantes.

O esporte adaptado, referente ao termo de atividade física com crianças que apresentam algum tipo de deficiência, tem uma evolução histórica relevante, pois desde suas origens tem enfrentado grandes desafios. Reconhece-se que nas escolas, em nível internacional e especificamente em Cuba, estão sendo feitos esforços para promover a inclusão no esporte; no entanto, considera-se que as propostas que, do ponto de vista científico e metodológico, apoiam o uso de competências e o desenvolvimento de habilidades em pessoas com deficiência ainda são insuficientes. É por essa razão que o objetivo deste trabalho é visualizar o recrutamento de crianças com potencial para a prática esportiva, a partir da Educação Física, na escola especial "28 de Enero". Nessa pesquisa, foi aplicado um questionário aos alunos sobre seus gostos pelo esporte e realizada uma caracterização, a partir da aplicação de um teste que mediu a deficiência intelectual e a deficiência físico-motora neles. Os dados, em geral, revelaram que, com dedicação, autoaperfeiçoamento e trabalho em equipe, é possível obter resultados satisfatórios não só no desempenho esportivo, mas também na autoestima e na qualidade de vida desses alunos.

Adapted sport, referred to as the term physical activity with children who have some type of disability, has a relevant historical evolution, since from its origins it has faced high challenges. It is recognized that in international level schools and specifically in Cuba, efforts are made to promote inclusion in sport; however, it is considered that the proposals that, from the scientific and methodological point of view, support the use of skills and the development of skills in people with disabilities are still insufficient. For this reason, the objective of this work is to visualize the recruitment of children with the potential to practice sports, from Physical Education, in the special school "28 de Enero". In this research, a survey was applied to students about their likes in sports and a characterization was carried out, based on the application of a test that measured intellectual disability and physical-motor disability in them. The data, in general, revealed that with dedication, improvement and teamwork, satisfactory results can be obtained not only in sports performance, but also in self-esteem and quality of life in these students.

Education Level Modulates the Presence of Poststroke Depression and Anxiety, But It Depends on Age.

ABSTRACT: Depression and anxiety are common complications after stroke and little is known about the modulatory roles of education and age. Our study aimed to evaluate the modulatory effects of education level on anxiety and depression after stroke and their effect on each age group. Adults with first stroke took part in this cross-sectional observational clinical study. We used the following instruments: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Montreal Cognitive Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Barthel index, and Functional Independence Measure. There were 89 patients. The mean (SD) age was 58.01 (13) years, mean (SD) years of education was 9.91 (5.22), 55.1% presented depression symptoms and 47.2% anxiety symptoms, 56.2% were young adults and 43.8% were older adults. We identified a negative association between education and anxiety score ( r = -0. 269, p = 0.011) and depression score ( r = -0.252, p = 0.017). In the linear regression analysis, we found that education is negatively associated with HADS, but this influence was more consistent in young adults. In conclusion, a higher education level reduces the risk of depression and anxiety, but their effect is less consistent in older adults.

Comparación de los métodos de antropometría y bioimpedancia eléctrica a través de la determinación de la composición corporal en estudiantado universitario / Comparison of the Methods of Anthropometry and Electrical Bioimpedance trough the Determination of Body Composition in University Students

Resumen Objetivo: Comparar la composición corporal por antropometría clásica e impedancia bioeléctrica en estudiantado universitario de una universidad peruana. Método: Estudio correlacional, transversal, conformado por 152 estudiantes (77 varones y 75 mujeres) matriculados en el ciclo 2018-II con edad promedio de 20.45 ± 3.63 años. Se calculó para el método de antropometría el índice de masa corporal, mediciones antropométricas y se utilizó la ecuación de Yuhasz (1974) para determinar el porcentaje de grasa corporal, y para el de bioimpedancia eléctrica se utilizó el analizador tetrapolar multifrecuencia de medición segmental directa Inbody 120. Para establecer la correlación se utilizó el coeficiente de Pearson y para la concordancia se utilizó el método gráfico de Bland Altman e índice de estabilidad. Los datos fueron analizados con el programa estadístico IBM SPSS Statistics, versión 27.0. Para todos los análisis se utilizó un nivel de significancia (p<0.05). Resultados: Existe una fuerte correlación estadísticamente significativa (p<0.01y r=0.95) entre los métodos de antropometría y bioimpedancia eléctrica para la determinación del porcentaje de grasa corporal; además, una buena concordancia según el método gráfico de Bland Altman, reforzada con el índice de estabilidad para complemento de la interpretación (IE= 95 %). Conclusiones: Ambos métodos son intercambiables entre sí, por lo que pueden ser usados indistintamente en este tipo de población para determinar el porcentaje de grasa corporal expresado en porcentaje.

Abstract Objective: The aim was to compare the body composition using classical anthropometry and bioelectric impedance in university students of a Peruvian university. Method: a correlational, cross-sectional study with a research sample of 152 students (77 men and 75 women) enrolled in the 2018-II period with an average age of 20.45 ± 3.63 years. The body mass index and anthropometric measurements were calculated for the anthropometric method. The Yuhasz (1974) equation was used to determine the body fat percentage. The electrical bioimpedance method implemented the tetrapolar multi-frequency direct segmental measurement analyzer Inbody 120. Pearson coefficient was used to establish the correlation, and the Bland Altman graphical method and stability index were used for concordance. The data were analyzed using the statistical software application IBM SPSS Statistics, version 27.0. A level of significance (p <0.05) was used for all analyzes. Results: there is a strong statistically significant correlation (p<0.01 and r = 0.95) between the anthropometric and electrical bioimpedance methods to determine body fat percentage. In addition, there is a good agreement according to the Bland Altman graphical method, reinforced by the stability index to complement the interpretation (IE = 95%). Conclusions: Both methods are interchangeable with each other, so they can be used indistinctly in this type of population to determine body fat percentage.

Resumo Objetivo: comparar a composição corporal por antropometria clássica e impedância bioelétrica em estudantes universitários de uma universidade peruana. Método: estudo correlacional, transversal, compreendendo 152 estudantes (77 homens e 75 mulheres) matriculados no ciclo 2018-II, com idade média de 20,45 ± 3,63 anos. Para o método antropométrico, o índice de massa corporal, as medidas antropométricas e a equação de Yuhasz (1974) foram calculados para determinar a porcentagem de gordura corporal; e para o método de bioimpedância elétrica foi usado o analisador tetrapolar multifrequencial com medida segmentar direta Inbody 120. O coeficiente de Pearson foi usado para estabelecer a correlação; o método gráfico Bland Altman e o índice de estabilidade foram usados para a concordância. Os dados foram analisados com o IBM SPSS Statistics, versão 27.0. Um nível de significância (p<0,05) foi usado para todas as análises. Resultados: há uma forte correlação estatística significativa (p<0,01 e r=0,95) entre os métodos de antropometria e bioimpedância elétrica para a determinação da porcentagem de gordura corporal; além disso, uma boa concordância de acordo com o método gráfico Bland Altman, reforçado com o índice de estabilidade para complementar a interpretação (IE= 95%). Conclusões: Ambos os métodos são intercambiáveis entre si, portanto, podem ser utilizados indistintamente nesse tipo de população para determinar a porcentagem de gordura corporal expressa como porcentagem.

The current state of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender cultural competency among U.S. dermatology residents.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people interface with dermatology providers for many reasons. Implementing culturally competent LGBT dermatologic care necessitates evaluating provider competency to identify where gaps remain. Objectives: To assess the LGBT cultural competency among U.S. dermatology residents. Methods: A self-reporting, cross-sectional survey was emailed to U.S. dermatology program coordinators (N = 143). LGBT patient exposure, LGBT educational hours, and LGBT cultural competency via the LGBT-Development of Clinical Skills Scale (with the subscales Clinical Preparedness, Attitudinal Awareness, and Basic Knowledge) were measured. Results: Dermatology residents (N = 119) across the United States completed the survey. They reported caring for less than 20 LGBT patients per year and receiving less than 75 minutes of LGBT education per year. They reported significantly higher Attitudinal Awareness than both Clinical Preparedness and Basic Knowledge; they reported significantly higher Basic Knowledge than Clinical Preparedness. They reported significantly less adequate clinical training and supervision, experience, and competence to assess transgender patients compared to lesbian, gay, and bisexual patients. In general, dermatology residents who reported more LGBT patients and LGBT education also reported higher LGBT cultural competency. Limitations: A larger national sample of U.S. dermatology residents is necessary for generalizability. Conclusions: Currently, there is a lack of LGBT education in U.S. dermatology residency curricula, which may delay addressing the health disparities that exist in this patient population. Due to such dearth of standardized LGBT education, dermatology residents likely do not feel adequately knowledgeable or prepared to address LGBT needs. Both LGBT education and LGBT patient experiences may help alleviate these shortcomings and help LGBT patients feel affirmed in their dermatologic care.

Topical therapy for regression and melanoma prevention of congenital giant nevi.

Giant congenital melanocytic nevi are NRAS-driven proliferations that may cover up to 80% of the body surface. Their most dangerous consequence is progression to melanoma. This risk often triggers preemptive extensive surgical excisions in childhood, producing severe lifelong challenges. We have presented preclinical models, including multiple genetically engineered mice and xenografted human lesions, which enabled testing locally applied pharmacologic agents to avoid surgery. The murine models permitted the identification of proliferative versus senescent nevus phases and treatments targeting both. These nevi recapitulated the histologic and molecular features of human giant congenital nevi, including the risk of melanoma transformation. Cutaneously delivered MEK, PI3K, and c-KIT inhibitors or proinflammatory squaric acid dibutylester (SADBE) achieved major regressions. SADBE triggered innate immunity that ablated detectable nevocytes, fully prevented melanoma, and regressed human giant nevus xenografts. These findings reveal nevus mechanistic vulnerabilities and suggest opportunities for topical interventions that may alter the therapeutic options for children with congenital giant nevi.

Disparities in access for melanoma screening by region, specialty, and insurance: A cross-sectional audit study.

Background: Early detection of melanoma is critical for positive outcomes. However, access for the diagnosis of melanoma remains problematic for segments of the general population. Objective: To compare the rates of dermatology and family medicine practitioner acceptances for a public insurance (Medicaid) versus private insurance (Anthem Blue Cross) and clinic wait times for an appointment for a changing pigmented skin lesion concerning melanoma in rural and urban regions in California. Methods: Cross-sectional audit study between June 2017 and March 2019; scripted phone calls were made to dermatology and family medicine practices (FMPs). Results: Family medicine and dermatology practices in both regions had significantly decreased acceptance of Medicaid. Dermatology practices had 11.3% to 13.0% Medicaid acceptance rates that were less than FMP rates of 28% to 36%. In both regions, FMP wait times were 2.4- to 3.2-fold longer for public versus private insurance; there were little differences in wait times for the 2 insurance types in dermatology practices, in both regions. Limitations: Assessment of only 2 regions in the state of California. Conclusion: Delays at FMPs and insurance types limit access to melanoma screening in California for underserved segments of the general population, which has implications for melanoma outcomes and health policy.

Information and Communication Technology Access and Use Among Low-Income Latino Immigrant Parents.

INTRODUCTION: Development of mHealth interventions to address health disparities for Latino children in immigrant families requires understanding access to and use of information and communication technology. METHODS: We examined access to information and communication technology and use of common applications/programs by low-income immigrant Latino parents of infants to inform development of mHealth interventions for this population. Latino immigrant parents reported technology use and access of common applications/software via survey. RESULTS: Of the 157 participants, we found nearly all parents owned a smartphone and that 60% accessed the internet only via their smartphone. Around one-quarter of participants had access to unlimited data. Frequent use of text messaging was common, but frequent email use was less common. Less than 10% of participants frequently used health-oriented applications. DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest that mHealth interventions that use data, email, or an application interface may not have the intended reach or effectiveness among low-income immigrant Latino parents. Consideration of these findings is important in guiding the development of future mHealth programs for the low-income Latino population. This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02647814).

Características morfofuncionales de una muestra de futbolistas profesionales chilenos de primera B según posición de juego / Morfofunctional Characteristics of a Sample From First B Chilean Professional Football Players According to Playing Position

Resumen Objetivo: analizar el perfil morfofuncional de futbolistas profesionales chilenos según su posición de juego. Método: el diseño del estudio fue no experimental, con un alcance descriptivo-correlacional. Se evaluaron 29 futbolistas profesionales de la primera B. Para determinar el porcentaje graso se midieron cuatro pliegues cutáneos y se aplicó la ecuación de Durnin y Womersley; para las variables físicas se aplicó el test de 1 repetición máxima de sentadillas y se utilizó el método de Brzycki para proyectar la fuerza máxima; en fuerza explosiva se ejecutó el Test de Bosco que evalúa el salto Squat Jump (SJ); para la resistencia aeróbica se utilizó el Yoyo test nivel 1 de recuperación, con toma de frecuencia cardiaca (FC) al final y en recuperación (1 minuto). Resultados: se observan solo diferencias significativas en la talla entre arqueros y volantes (F=4.491; p=0.012), esto implica, que la edad, peso y Σ4 pliegues no inciden en la posición de juego. Conclusiones: se observa que, en cada posición de juego, los jugadores presentan una configuración morfofuncional distinta, lo cual permite inferir que el trabajo debe ser diferenciado.

Abstract Objective: to analyze the morphofunctional profile of Chilean professional soccer players according to their playing position. Method: the study design was non-experimental, with a descriptive-correlational scope. Twenty-nine professional soccer players belonging to the Valdivia Sports Club of Chile were evaluated. Fat percentage was established by measuring four skin folds and applying the Durnin and Womersley equation. For the physical variables, the maximum squat repetition test was applied, and the Brzycki method was used to project the maximum force in one repetition. In explosive force, the Bosco Test was performed; this test evaluates the squat jump (SJ). The level 1 recovery Yoyo Test was used for the aerobic resistance, with heart rate (HR) measurement at the end and in recovery (1 minute). Results: Only significant differences in height are observed between goalkeepers and midfielders (F =4.491;p= 0.012); this implies that age, weight, and Σ4 folds do not affect in the playing position. Conclusions: it is observed that, in each game position, the players present a different morphofunctional configuration, which allows inferring that the work must be differentiated.

Resumo Objetivo: analisar o perfil morfofuncional de jogadores profissionais chilenos de futebol segundo sua posição de jogo. Método: o desenho do estudo foi não experimental, de escopo descritivo-correlacional. Foram avaliados 29 jogadores de futebol profissional do primeiro B. Para determinar o percentual de gordura, foram medidas quatro dobras cutâneas e aplicada a equação de Durnin e Womersley; Para as variáveis físicas foi aplicado o teste de 1 repetição máxima de agachamento e utilizado o método de Brzycki para projetar a força máxima; Na força explosiva, foi realizado o Teste de Bosco, que avalia o Salto de Agachamento (SJ); Para a resistência aeróbia, foi utilizado o teste de recuperação Yoyo nível 1, com frequência cardíaca (FC) medida no final e na recuperação (1 minuto). Resultados: foram observadas apenas diferenças significativas na altura entre goleiros e petecas (F = 4,491; p = 0,012), isso implica que idade, peso e Σ4 dobras não interferem na posição de jogo. Conclusões: observa-se que, em cada posição de jogo, os jogadores apresentam uma configuração morfofuncional diferente, o que permite inferir que o trabalho deve ser diferenciado.

The role of technology in melanoma screening and diagnosis.

Melanoma presents challenges for timely and accurate diagnosis. Expert panels have issued risk-based screening guidelines, with recommended screening by visual inspection. To assess how recent technology can impact the risk/benefit considerations for melanoma screening, we comprehensively reviewed non-invasive visual-based technologies. Dermoscopy increases lesional diagnostic accuracy for both dermatologists and primary care providers; total body photography and sequential digital dermoscopic imaging also increase diagnostic accuracy, are supported by automated lesion detection and tracking, and may be best suited to use by dermatologists for longitudinal follow-up. Specialized imaging modalities using non-visible light technology have unproven benefit over dermoscopy and can be limited by cost, access, and training requirements. Mobile apps facilitate image capture and lesion tracking. Teledermatology has good concordance with face-to-face consultation and increases access, with increased accuracy using dermoscopy. Deep learning models can surpass dermatologist accuracy, but their clinical utility has yet to be demonstrated. Technology-aided diagnosis may change the calculus of screening; however, well-designed prospective trials are needed to assess the efficacy of these different technologies, alone and in combination to support refinement of guidelines for melanoma screening.

The impact of demographics, socioeconomics, and health care access on melanoma outcomes.

Disparities in melanoma care exist in the United States. Disparities in provider type, patient demographics, place of residence, insurance status, socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, and age impact melanoma outcomes. Melanomas detected by dermatologists are thinner, at an earlier stage, and have better survival outcomes compared with detection by primary care providers or patients. Lower socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, and place of residence are associated with decreased access to or use of dermatologists, or both, and more advanced melanomas at diagnosis. Additionally, uninsured and publicly insured individuals are more likely to present with late-stage melanomas, resulting in worse outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of how structural and patient-level characteristics influence melanoma outcomes in order to inform clinical care and health care policy as it relates to addressing gaps in melanoma care.

Leaving Paper Behind: Improving Healthcare Navigation by Latino Immigrant Parents Through Video-Based Education.

System barriers to effective healthcare engagement and navigation contribute to healthcare disparities among Latino children with immigrant parents in the US. We evaluated a nine-minute educational video supporting healthcare navigation and engagement skills of Spanish-speaking Latino parents of infants. Participants viewed the video at their child's 2-month well-visit, completed a pre-and post-video knowledge evaluation, and answered open-ended questions on video style. A paired t test was used to examine differences in knowledge and open-ended responses were coded using an iterative, consensus-based process. Of the 79 participants, 63.3% had an education level below high school diploma/GED and 84.8% were at risk for limited health literacy. There was a significant gain in healthcare navigation and engagement knowledge after watching the video (p < 0.001). Parents expressed that the video was interesting and provided useful information. Parents valued the knowledge gained and preferred videos over written materials for receiving culturally and linguistically tailored health education.

Immigrant Latino parents demonstrated high interactivity with pediatric primary care text messaging intervention.

BACKGROUND: The majority of Latino immigrants have been shown to have a mobile phone. Cellular phones offer a low-cost method of reaching larger populations and have the potential for increased tailoring and interactivity. This supports the development of mHealth interventions to address healthcare disparities in this population. In this study we sought to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of interactive Spanish-language text messages sent throughout a child's first year of life in a low-income, limited-English proficient (LEP) Latino population to support families in accessing and using pediatric primary care more effectively. METHODS: Participants (n=79) received interactive text messages over a period of 12 months as a part of a multi-modal mHealth intervention conducted at an urban academic pediatric primary care practice. Inclusion criteria were: singleton infant <2 months of age, enrollment in public health insurance, parent age >18, parent preferred healthcare language of Spanish, and at least one household cellular phone. Interactive text messages were designed to promote increased healthcare engagement and prompted participant responses through preprogramed algorithms. Text message sequences included clinic appointment reminders, support for obtaining medicine and completing referral appointments, monitoring of illness care needs and use, and parent support program reminders. Descriptive analyses were used to examine text message volume, usability, and participant response to text sequences. RESULTS: Among participants, mean parent age was 30.1 years (SD: 6.1 years); mean years in the US was 7.5 years (SD: 5.1 years). 63.3% of parents had less than a high school education and 84.8% of parents had possible/high likelihood of limited health literacy. Participants completed the majority of sequences with appointment reminder sequences having the quickest response time. The top quartile of responders completed 88.3% of sequences; lower educational attainment was associated with lower text message sequence completion. Participants rated the program positively, especially the appointment reminders. CONCLUSIONS: LEP Latino parents successfully engaged with interactive Spanish-language text sequences and parent acceptability was high. This study demonstrates feasibility for interventions employing this technology. Text message interventions may be a feasible approach to reduce healthcare disparities and costs for vulnerable populations.

Serum Kynurenines Correlate With Depressive Symptoms and Disability in Poststroke Patients: A Cross-sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Poststroke depression (PSD) is related to adverse functional and cognitive prognosis in stroke patients. The participation of kynurenine pathway metabolites in depression has been previously proposed; however, there are few studies on its role in PSD and disability in stroke. OBJECTIVE: To investigate if there is a correlation between serum kynurenines levels with poststroke anxiety and depression symptoms and disability scales. METHODS: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted in patients with first stroke, of >1 month and <1 year of evolution, with no history of previous psychiatric or neurological disorders; the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), functional evaluations (Barthel index, Functional Independence Measure [FIM]) were applied and serum kynurenines (Kyns) were determined. RESULTS: Sixty patients were included; significant depressive symptoms were found in 63% of the cases; a significant and positive correlation was obtained between levels of 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) with HADS-T (r = 0.30, P = .025) and HADS-D (r = 0.28, P = .039). Depressed patients showed significantly higher levels of 3HK (P = .048) and KYNA (P = .0271) than nondepressed patients; the 3HK levels were inversely correlated with functional scales: Barthel index (r = -0.31, P = .02), FIM (r = -0.40, P = .01); in addition, serum 3HK levels were significantly higher in patients with poor sleep quality (P = .0190). CONCLUSIONS: Serum Kyns show correlation with the presence and severity of depressive symptoms and with the disability and sleep quality. Kyns may be a potential marker of depression risk and disability in stroke in future.

Screening for Anemia and Iron Deficiency in the Adult Portuguese Population.

Anemia and iron deficiency (ID) can impair quality of life and socioeconomic development. We evaluated the prevalence of anemia and ID in the adult Portuguese population in real-life contexts by gender, age, and pregnancy status. We performed a cross-sectional screening in adult individuals in mainland Portugal from 2013 to 2017. Participants completed a survey about demographics and signs or symptoms compatible with anemia, and ID and hemoglobin and ferritin concentrations were determined by point-of-care tests. We estimated and compared prevalence ratios (PR) of anemia and ID using Poisson regression with robust variance and the Wald chi-square test. We collected data from 11,030 individuals (26% men, 64% nonpregnant women, and 10% pregnant women). We found anemia in 51.8% (95% CI 50.1-53.4%) of nonpregnant women in fertile age, 46.6% (95% CI 44.7-48.6%) of nonpregnant women >51 years, 38.2% (95% CI 35.4-41.1%) of pregnant women, and 33.3% (95% CI 31.6-35.1%) of men. The prevalence of ID was 72.9% (95% CI 71.4-74.4%) in nonpregnant women in fertile age, 50.5% (95% CI 48.5-52.4%) in nonpregnant women >51 years, 94.8% (95% CI 93.3-96.0%) in pregnant women, and 28.9% (95% CI 27.3-30.6%) in men. We found significant associations between the prevalence of anemia or ID and nonpregnant women (PR: 1.50, 95% CI 1.42-1.59 or PR: 2.21, 95% CI 2.09-2.35, respectively), manifestation of signs or symptoms (PR: 1.19, 95% CI 1.53-1.23 or PR: 1.22, 95% CI 1.18-1.26), pregnant women (PR: 0.74, 95% CI 0.68-0.80 or PR: 1.30, 95% CI 1.27-1.33), and nonpregnant women ≤51 years (PR: 1.11, 95% CI 1.06-1.17 or PR: 1.42, 95% CI 1.36-1.48). In conclusion, anemia and ID represent moderate to severe public health problems, particularly among women in fertile age and in 3rd trimester, of pregnancy emphasizing the need to raise the public and health professionals' awareness of these problems and their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.