Psychometric characteristics of a questionnaire to assess perceived disability in people with epilepsy.

It has been determined that quality of life in epilepsy is closely related to the perceived disability experienced by individuals with the diagnosis. However, this measure is seldom considered in healthcare processes. The objective of the present study is to establish the psychometric properties of the Perceived Disability Questionnaire in individuals diagnosed with epilepsy within a Latin American context. A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted involving 325 participants, aged 12 years and older (M 40.42 years), individuals diagnosed with epilepsy in Colombia. The main psychometric properties of the instrument were explored to account for its factorial validity and reliability. The Perceived Disability Questionnaire exhibits high reliability (α = 0.878) and the three subscales comprising the final version of the questionnaire (Dissatisfaction, Pessimism, and Self-Disdain) explain 45.393 % of the total variance in relation to beliefs of disability associated with the diagnosis of epilepsy; the questionnaire significantly correlates with the Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory (QOLIE-10). Adequate psychometric properties of the instrument are found, which allows for its proposal as a tool in epilepsy care processes within the Colombian context.

Building an implementation strategy for community-based rehabilitation for mental health in Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: Scientific evidence indicates that the community-based rehabilitation (CBR) model is recommended for recovery from mental disorders. However, this approach encounters barriers and often lacks implementation strategies. AIM: The aim of this study is to create a strategy for the implementation of CBR for mental health in Colombia through the identification of barriers and facilitators, together with the expected outcomes, from the perspective of mental health decision-makers in Colombia. METHODS: This study adopts a qualitative descriptive approach, using focus group data collection methods and thematic analysis to code and analyze the data. RESULTS: A total of 208 individuals participated in the study, including mental health decision-makers and health care professionals. Intersectoral collaboration, contextualization, financial resources, and community commitment and autonomy were identified as barriers and facilitators. The element that was considered a priority for successful implementation was the contextualization of strategies. CONCLUSIONS: CBR needs to be strengthened through implementation science if these strategies are to be successfully developed and implemented in various contexts. SPANISH ABSTRACT: http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A210.

[Mental Health Gap Action Programme: a theoretical model of barriers to implementation by health personnel in Chocó, ColombiaPrograma de Ação para Reduzir as Lacunas em Saúde Mental: modelo teórico das barreiras de implementação por profissionais de saúde de Chocó, Colômbia]. / Programa de acción para superar las brechas en salud mental: un modelo teórico de las barreras de implementación desde el personal de salud en Chocó, Colombia.

Objectives: Mental, neurological, and substance use (MNS) disorders have a high prevalence in Colombia and there is a treatment gap. The World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) has various components. The mhGAP 2.0 Intervention Guide, aimed at improving primary health care, is a guide for the assessment and management of MNS disorders based on clinical decision-making protocols. The objective of this study was to determine the barriers that may hinder the program implementation process. Methods: A qualitative study with content analysis was conducted in three phases: i) study preparation, organization, and presentation; ii) open coding, categorization, and abstraction of contents; and iii) information analysis. The study included semi-structured interviews with 21 people involved in the provision of mental health services in Chocó (Colombia): five medical doctors, seven nurses, and three psychologists, as well as six professionals working in the administrative area of the department's health secretariats. The perceptions of these stakeholders were explored. Open-ended questions were asked to explore experiences with the process, as well as the barriers identified in practice. Results: Four different thematic categories were identified: intersectoral action, long-standing challenges, opportunities, and suitability of tools. Conclusions: A theoretical model of barriers to implementation of the mhGAP program was constructed, based on stakeholder perceptions. Controlling barriers is perceived as a possible way to contribute significantly to population health.

Objetivo: Os transtornos mentais, neurológicos e por uso de substâncias psicoativas são muito prevalentes, e há uma lacuna na atenção a esses transtornos na Colômbia. O Programa de Ação para Reduzir as Lacunas em Saúde Mental (mhGAP, na sigla em inglês) da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) consta de vários componentes. Um deles é o Manual de Intervenções mhGAP 2.0, elaborado para aprimorar a atenção primária à saúde. O documento contém orientações para avaliação e manejo de transtornos mentais, neurológicos e por uso de substâncias psicoativas e foi elaborado com base em protocolos para a tomada de decisões clínicas. O objetivo do estudo foi determinar as barreiras que podem surgir no processo de implementação do programa. Métodos: Estudo qualitativo com enfoque de análise de conteúdo desenvolvido em três fases: i) preparação, organização e apresentação do estudo; ii) codificação aberta, categorização e abstração do conteúdo; e iii) análise das informações. O estudo incluiu entrevistas semiestruturadas com 21 pessoas envolvidas na prestação de serviços de saúde mental em Chocó (Colômbia): cinco profissionais da medicina, sete de enfermagem e três de psicologia, bem como seis profissionais que trabalham na área administrativa das secretarias de saúde do departamento. As percepções das partes interessadas, ou seja, do pessoal assistencial e administrativo do setor de saúde no departamento de Chocó, foram exploradas. Foram feitas perguntas abertas a fim de investigar suas experiências com o processo de atenção e as barreiras identificadas na prática. Resultados: Foram identificadas quatro categorias temáticas: intersetorialidade, desafios de longa data, possibilidades e adequação das ferramentas. Conclusões: Elaborou-se um modelo teórico sobre as barreiras de implementação do Programa mhGAP com base nas percepções das partes interessadas. O controle das barreiras é visto como uma possível forma de contribuir significativamente para a saúde da população.

Confirmation of the invasive American mink (Neogale vison) as carrier of Mycobacterium bovis in southern Chile.

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a chronic infectious-contagious disease with worldwide distribution, caused by the zoonotic pathogen Mycobacterium bovis. It is believed that the existence of wild cycles may hamper the success of bTB control strategies worldwide, where wildlife species could be reservoirs of this bacterial agent across their native (e.g., European badgers, wild boars) or non-indigenous (e.g., brushtail possum in New Zealand) ranges. However, further studies are required to understand the potential risk posed by non-native wildlife in becoming carriers of M. bovis in other neglected latitudes, such as the Southern Cone of South America. In this study, we performed a specific M. bovis-RD4 real-time PCR (qPCR) assay to detect bacterial DNA in tissues from the invasive American mink (Neogale vison) in Los Ríos region, Chile. We detected M. bovis DNA in blood samples collected from 13 out of 186 (7 %) minks with known sex and age. We did not find any significant differences in bacterial DNA detection according to mink sex and age. We found that 92 % (12/13) of specimens were positive in lung, 39 % (5/13) in mediastinal lymph node, and 15 % (2/13) in mesenteric lymph node, which suggest that both respiratory and digestive pathways as possible routes of transmission between infected hosts and minks. Our study is the first report on M. bovis molecular detection in invasive minks in an area where the largest cattle population in the country is located. Furthermore, this area is characterized by a low within-herd prevalence of M. bovis infection in cattle, with a relatively low number of infected herds, and so far, no attempts at eradicating the disease have been successful.

Support Groups Versus Primary Mental Healthcare on Disability and Continuity of Care: Community Trial [Support Groups for Recovery].

Based on the need to implement strategies to reduce recovery gaps in mental health with the community as axes of recovery, the objective of the present study was to assess the impact on psychosocial disability and care continuity in individuals with suicidal behavior, of the clinical and community components of the Mental Health Gap Action Program (mhGAP), versus exclusive psychiatric care. For this, a controlled community trial carried out in 2023 was conducted, comprising intervention groups: Support Group (SG), mhGAP Group (mhGAPG) and a Control Group (CG). Self-report measurements were collected pretest and posttest, utilizing the Psychosocial Disability Scale and the Alberta Continuity of Care Scale. The study involved the participation of 94 individuals with a history of suicidal behavior, with 30 individuals in the SG, 34 in the mhGAP group, and 30 in the CG. Categorical variables were summarized using frequency distribution tables. Descriptive statistics were used to examine participants' characteristics at the study outcome and estimate treatment compliance. The Mann-Whitney U Test examined differences in sociodemographic variable frequencies. The Jarque-Bera test confirmed a normal distribution for psychological variables, warranting the use of parametric tests. Differences in mean values across groups, each with two measurements per individual, were assessed using a type II repeated measures ANOVA. There were significant differences based on the intervention, with the effect being greater in the SG across all domains. Significant improvement was observed in all domains of the disability and continuity of care scale within the intervention groups. Both groups showed improvement, with better results for the SG. In conclusion, a methodology is proposed for implementing support groups based on core components, which effectively enhances psychosocial disability and the continuity of mental health care, especially in suicidal behavior.

Human rights and support groups to improve quality of life, self-care and disability in epilepsy: [Rights and support groups for epilepsy].

BACKGROUND: People with epilepsy have multiple barriers to recovering their quality of life. The objective of the present study was to determine the impact of a community group intervention focused on the components of mutual aid and human rights, to improve the quality of life in people with epilepsy. METHODS: Prospective quasi-experimental study, incorporating pre- and post-intervention evaluations. There were 102 people who underwent an intervention focused on the central components of mutual aid groups (Active agency, Coping strategies, Emotion recognition and management, Problem solving, Supportive interaction, Identity construction, Trust, and Social networks) and in the QualityRights strategy. As evaluation instruments, scales were used to determine quality of life (QOLIE-10), treatment adherence (Morisky Test), self-care behaviors, perception of disability and quality in the provision of health services. RESULTS: Correlations were shown between the variables proposed for quality of life. The intervention showed an improvement in all variables and a moderate to large effect in the self-care domain. There was a significant effect size in the self-care and quality of life variables with the intervention. Pharmacological adherence showed a moderate effect size in young people, adults and older adults. Regarding the perception of disability, the effect size was found only in adults. The pharmacological adherence variable also had a moderate effect size. This does specify the age groups, but not in the general sample. CONCLUSION: Seizure-free time constitutes a fundamental element in recovery. However, psychosocial conditions constitute key elements to achieve a better quality of life in people with epilepsy.

Acro-Ischemia Associated With SARS-CoV-2: A Case Report.

COVID-19 is known to cause various cutaneous lesions, including acro-ischemic lesions (AIL), which are associated with poor prognosis. Anticoagulant therapy has shown positive responses in AIL patients. However, in this case study, we present a fatal AIL case despite anticoagulant therapy. We propose different treatment approaches based on the limited current data on acro-ischemia pathogenesis related to SARS-CoV-2. The clinical case involved a 59-year-old male with severe COVID-19 symptoms, including acrocyanosis and right hemiparesis. Despite receiving anticoagulant therapy, the patient's condition worsened, leading to necrosis in the left foot. The discussion focuses on the high-risk nature of AIL, the potential link between angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors and vasculitis or thromboembolic manifestations, and the role of immune clots in AIL pathogenesis. Behçet syndrome is referenced as a model of inflammation-induced thrombosis, guiding the suggestion for immunosuppressant-based treatment in addition to anticoagulants. Additionally, three substances, N-acetyl cysteine, sulodexide, and hydroxychloroquine, are proposed.

Prolonged, Atypical, and Fulminant Mpox in a HIV/HBV-Coinfected Patient: A Case Report.

Mpox (monkeypox) is a zoonotic disease that has been endemic in African countries for decades, with a recent global outbreak in countries around the world. A 39-year-old male with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-hepatitis B virus (HBV) coinfection and poor adherence to antiretroviral treatment, who was severely immunocompromised and had a concurrent diagnosis of Mpox, presented to our hospital with disseminated skin lesions (over 350 lesions), perianal ulcers, odynophagia, oral intolerance, diarrhea, and soft-tissue bacterial superinfection of the lower extremities. Laboratory results were consistent with HBV infection, with an absolute CD4 cell count of 40 cells/uL and a positive PCR result for monkeypox virus. An abdominopelvic CT scan showed evidence of severe proctitis and perineal soft-tissue infection. Sixty-five days after a positive monkeypox virus PCR, new lesions in the vesicular stage continued to appear, eventually developing hemodynamic instability and sepsis, resulting in a fatal outcome. Our case highlights the importance of intentionally looking for risk factors such as HIV/HBV coinfection and evaluating immune status (CD4 cell count) in patients with severe Mpox because it could be related to higher mortality.

Validation of an instrument to guide the implementation of strategies for mental health care in Colombia / Validación de un instrumento para orientar la implementación de las estrategias de atención de salud mental en Colombia / Validação de um instrumento para orientar a implementação de estratégias de atenção à saúde mental na Colômbia

[ABSTRACT]. Objectives. To validate the implementation drivers scale among first-level mental health care professionals in Colombia. The scale is designed as a tool to guide the implementation of strategies that effectively reduce gaps in mental health care. Methods. The Active Implementation Framework was adopted, which is a widely used model for measuring implementation. The participants included 380 individuals (55.56% men) – 349 health personnel trained in the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) and 31 territorial personnel in charge of planning mental health strategies at the territorial level in Colombia. To assess the critical dimensions of mhGAP implementa- tion, we developed a scale of 18 items based on the active implementation framework. We conducted content validity assessments and exploratory factor analysis to evaluate the scale. We used the Organizational Read- iness for Knowledge Translation scale as a comparative standard. Results. The implementation drivers scale identified four dimensions: system enablers for implementation, accessibility of the strategy, adaptability and acceptability, and strategy training and supervision. These dimensions had Cronbach alpha values of 0.914, 0.868, 0.927, and 0.725, respectively, indicating high internal consistency. In addition, all dimensions demonstrated adequate correlation with the Organizational Readiness for Knowledge Translation scale. Conclusion. The implementation drivers scale effectively determines the adaptability and implementation of various components of mental health programs, particularly those focusing on community-based approaches and primary care settings. As such, this scale can contribute to the more effective implementation of strategies outlined by global and local political frameworks, thus improving mental health care.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivos. Validar la escala de impulsores de implementación en profesionales de la salud mental del nivel de atención primaria en Colombia. La escala está diseñada como una herramienta para orientar la implementación de estrategias que permitan reducir de manera efectiva las desigualdades existentes en la atención de salud mental. Métodos. Se adoptó el marco de implementación activa, que es un modelo ampliamente utilizado para medir este tipo de implementaciones. Los participantes fueron 380 personas (55,56% hombres), de las cuales 349 eran profesionales de la salud capacitados mediante el Programa de acción mundial para superar las brechas en salud mental (mhGAP, por su sigla en inglés) y 31 formaban parte del personal territorial encargado de planificar estrategias de atención de salud mental a nivel territorial en Colombia. Para evaluar los dominios cruciales de la implementación del mhGAP, elaboramos una escala de 18 puntos basada en el marco de implementación activa. Para evaluar la escala se realizaron determinaciones de la validez de contenido y un análisis factorial exploratorio. Como patrón de referencia se utilizó la escala Predisposición Organizacional a la Transferencia del Conocimiento para el Cambio de Práctica Clínica. Resultados. La escala de impulsores de la implementación determinó cuatro dominios: facilitadores del sistema para la implementación, accesibilidad de la estrategia, adaptabilidad y aceptabilidad, y capacitación en la estrategia y supervisión. Estos dominios presentaron valores de alfa de Cronbach de 0,914, 0,868, 0,927 y 0,725, respectivamente, lo que indica una coherencia interna elevada. Además, todos los dominios mostraron una correlación adecuada con la escala Predisposición Organizacional a la Transferencia del Conocimiento para el Cambio de Práctica Clínica. Conclusión. La escala de impulsores de la implementación permite determinar de manera efectiva la adaptabilidad y la implementación de diversos componentes de los programas de salud mental, en particular de los que se centran en enfoques basados en la comunidad y en entornos de atención primaria. En este sentido, esta escala puede contribuir a una implementación más eficaz de las estrategias esbozadas en los marcos políticos locales y mundiales, con la consiguiente mejora de la atención de salud mental.

[RESUMO]. Objetivos. Validar a escala de determinantes da implementação entre profissionais do primeiro nível de atenção à saúde mental na Colômbia. A escala foi concebida como uma ferramenta para orientar a implementação de estratégias que reduzam efetivamente as lacunas na atenção à saúde mental. Métodos. Foi adotada a Estrutura de Implementação Ativa, um modelo amplamente utilizado para medir a implementação. O estudo incluiu 380 indivíduos (55,56% homens): 349 profissionais de saúde treinados no Programa de Ação para Reduzir as Lacunas em Saúde Mental (mhGAP, na sigla em inglês) e 31 profissionais dos territórios encarregados de planejar estratégias de saúde mental em nível territorial na Colômbia. Para avaliar as dimensões essenciais da implementação do mhGAP, criou-se uma escala de 18 itens com base na Estrutura de Implementação Ativa. Foram realizadas avaliações da validade do conteúdo e uma análise fato- rial exploratória para avaliar a escala. A escala de prontidão organizacional para tradução de conhecimentos (OR4KT, na sigla em inglês) foi utilizada como padrão de comparação. Resultados. A escala de determinantes da implementação identificou quatro dimensões: facilitadores sistêmicos de implementação; acessibilidade da estratégia; adaptabilidade e aceitabilidade; e capacitação e monitoramento da estratégia. Essas dimensões tiveram valores de alfa de Cronbach de 0,914, 0,868, 0,927 e 0,725, respectivamente, indicando alta consistência interna. Além disso, todas as dimensões demonstraram correlações adequadas com a escala OR4KT. Conclusão. A escala de determinantes da implementação avalia efetivamente a adaptabilidade e a imple- mentação de vários componentes dos programas de saúde mental, especialmente componentes que se concentram em abordagens baseadas na comunidade e ambientes de atenção primária. Dessa forma, essa escala pode contribuir para uma implementação mais efetiva de estratégias delineadas por estruturas políticas mundiais e locais, melhorando assim a atenção à saúde mental.

Validation of an instrument to guide the implementation of strategies for mental health care in Colombia.

Objectives: To validate the implementation drivers scale among first-level mental health care professionals in Colombia. The scale is designed as a tool to guide the implementation of strategies that effectively reduce gaps in mental health care. Methods: The Active Implementation Framework was adopted, which is a widely used model for measuring implementation. The participants included 380 individuals (55.56% men) - 349 health personnel trained in the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) and 31 territorial personnel in charge of planning mental health strategies at the territorial level in Colombia. To assess the critical dimensions of mhGAP implementation, we developed a scale of 18 items based on the active implementation framework. We conducted content validity assessments and exploratory factor analysis to evaluate the scale. We used the Organizational Readiness for Knowledge Translation scale as a comparative standard. Results: The implementation drivers scale identified four dimensions: system enablers for implementation, accessibility of the strategy, adaptability and acceptability, and strategy training and supervision. These dimensions had Cronbach alpha values of 0.914, 0.868, 0.927, and 0.725, respectively, indicating high internal consistency. In addition, all dimensions demonstrated adequate correlation with the Organizational Readiness for Knowledge Translation scale. Conclusion: The implementation drivers scale effectively determines the adaptability and implementation of various components of mental health programs, particularly those focusing on community-based approaches and primary care settings. As such, this scale can contribute to the more effective implementation of strategies outlined by global and local political frameworks, thus improving mental health care.

"Here, I am More than Just Symptoms Combined": Mental Health Services from the Perspective of Community Rehabilitation Groups.

In response to the rise in mental disorders, psychosocial and community approaches have been proposed, complementing traditional clinical services. The present research aimed to understand the perception of individuals attending community-based strategies regarding mental health services as part of the approach to mental disorders in Colombia. Two workshops were conducted with 30 individuals with mental disorders (depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder), who were members of community strategies. A thematic analysis was conducted. The theme resulting from the analysis shows Community mental health within the healthcare system, which consisted of categories such as Group Amplifying Actions for Health and Groups as Complementary to Other Forms of Care. It is emphasized that the healthcare system should establish bridges with community mental health strategies and actively engage in their strengthening processes to enhance the outcomes of pharmacological interventions and even psychotherapeutic interventions. Bidirectional learning approach is proposed between community-based mental health services and clinical settings within the healthcare system. Community strategies can make an important contribution to complex processes in the health system.

Neurocognitive correlates of semantic memory navigation in Parkinson's disease.

Cognitive studies on Parkinson's disease (PD) reveal abnormal semantic processing. Most research, however, fails to indicate which conceptual properties are most affected and capture patients' neurocognitive profiles. Here, we asked persons with PD, healthy controls, and individuals with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD, as a disease control group) to read concepts (e.g., 'sun') and list their features (e.g., hot). Responses were analyzed in terms of ten word properties (including concreteness, imageability, and semantic variability), used for group-level comparisons, subject-level classification, and brain-behavior correlations. PD (but not bvFTD) patients produced more concrete and imageable words than controls, both patterns being associated with overall cognitive status. PD and bvFTD patients showed reduced semantic variability, an anomaly which predicted semantic inhibition outcomes. Word-property patterns robustly classified PD (but not bvFTD) patients and correlated with disease-specific hypoconnectivity along the sensorimotor and salience networks. Fine-grained semantic assessments, then, can reveal distinct neurocognitive signatures of PD.

Mutual Aid Groups for Loneliness, Psychosocial Disability, and Continuity of Care.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of mutual help groups in continuity of care, loneliness and psychosocial disability in a Colombian context. For this, a quasi-experimental design is used, with pre- and post-intervention assessments due to non-randomized participant allocation. The study involved 131 individuals with mental disorders. The Psychosocial Disability Scale, The Alberta Scale of Continuity of Services in Mental Health, the UCLA Scale and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale were employed. The intervention was based on the core components of mutual aid groups. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed for the study variables, particularly in Loneliness, Continuity of Care, and various domains of psychosocial disability. A large effect size was found for these variables after the intervention. Most variables exhibited a moderate to large effect. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of mutual groups facilitated by mental health personnel at the primary care level.

Design and validation of a scale of core components of community interventions in mental health.

AIMS: To develop and validate an instrument to identify the core components of community strategies for mental health, especially mutual aid groups: The Mutual Aid Scale . METHODS: 135 community strategies leaders participated in the study. The core components are active agency, coping strategies, recognition, and management of emotions, problem-solving strategies, supportive interaction, trust, self-identity construction, and strengthening of social networks. With these components a scale was designed. Content validity was carried out in addition to an exploratory factor analysis. RESULTS: Two dimensions resulted, strengthening of agency capacity and Coping strategies, and the internal consistency of both factors was acceptable, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.722 and 0.727, respectively. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) statistic was used with a score of 0.831 and the Barlett Sphericity Test, with a significant value of 265.175. CONCLUSION: This scale identifies the components of community interventions for mental health and can contribute to a better implementation of these strategies. It also articulates autonomous community processes with strategies developed in health services.

Validation of an instrument to guide the implementation of strategies for mental health care in Colombia / Validación de un instrumento para orientar la implementación de las estrategias de atención de salud mental en Colombia / Validação de um instrumento para orientar a implementação de estratégias de atenção à saúde mental na Colômbia

ABSTRACT Objectives. To validate the implementation drivers scale among first-level mental health care professionals in Colombia. The scale is designed as a tool to guide the implementation of strategies that effectively reduce gaps in mental health care. Methods. The Active Implementation Framework was adopted, which is a widely used model for measuring implementation. The participants included 380 individuals (55.56% men) - 349 health personnel trained in the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) and 31 territorial personnel in charge of planning mental health strategies at the territorial level in Colombia. To assess the critical dimensions of mhGAP implementation, we developed a scale of 18 items based on the active implementation framework. We conducted content validity assessments and exploratory factor analysis to evaluate the scale. We used the Organizational Readiness for Knowledge Translation scale as a comparative standard. Results. The implementation drivers scale identified four dimensions: system enablers for implementation, accessibility of the strategy, adaptability and acceptability, and strategy training and supervision. These dimensions had Cronbach alpha values of 0.914, 0.868, 0.927, and 0.725, respectively, indicating high internal consistency. In addition, all dimensions demonstrated adequate correlation with the Organizational Readiness for Knowledge Translation scale. Conclusion. The implementation drivers scale effectively determines the adaptability and implementation of various components of mental health programs, particularly those focusing on community-based approaches and primary care settings. As such, this scale can contribute to the more effective implementation of strategies outlined by global and local political frameworks, thus improving mental health care.

RESUMO Objetivos. Validar a escala de determinantes da implementação entre profissionais do primeiro nível de atenção à saúde mental na Colômbia. A escala foi concebida como uma ferramenta para orientar a implementação de estratégias que reduzam efetivamente as lacunas na atenção à saúde mental. Métodos. Foi adotada a Estrutura de Implementação Ativa, um modelo amplamente utilizado para medir a implementação. O estudo incluiu 380 indivíduos (55,56% homens): 349 profissionais de saúde treinados no Programa de Ação para Reduzir as Lacunas em Saúde Mental (mhGAP, na sigla em inglês) e 31 profissionais dos territórios encarregados de planejar estratégias de saúde mental em nível territorial na Colômbia. Para avaliar as dimensões essenciais da implementação do mhGAP, criou-se uma escala de 18 itens com base na Estrutura de Implementação Ativa. Foram realizadas avaliações da validade do conteúdo e uma análise fatorial exploratória para avaliar a escala. A escala de prontidão organizacional para tradução de conhecimentos (OR4KT, na sigla em inglês) foi utilizada como padrão de comparação. Resultados. A escala de determinantes da implementação identificou quatro dimensões: facilitadores sistêmicos de implementação; acessibilidade da estratégia; adaptabilidade e aceitabilidade; e capacitação e monitoramento da estratégia. Essas dimensões tiveram valores de alfa de Cronbach de 0,914, 0,868, 0,927 e 0,725, respectivamente, indicando alta consistência interna. Além disso, todas as dimensões demonstraram correlações adequadas com a escala OR4KT. Conclusão. A escala de determinantes da implementação avalia efetivamente a adaptabilidade e a implementação de vários componentes dos programas de saúde mental, especialmente componentes que se concentram em abordagens baseadas na comunidade e ambientes de atenção primária. Dessa forma, essa escala pode contribuir para uma implementação mais efetiva de estratégias delineadas por estruturas políticas mundiais e locais, melhorando assim a atenção à saúde mental.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Validar la escala de impulsores de implementación en profesionales de la salud mental del nivel de atención primaria en Colombia. La escala está diseñada como una herramienta para orientar la implementación de estrategias que permitan reducir de manera efectiva las desigualdades existentes en la atención de salud mental. Métodos. Se adoptó el marco de implementación activa, que es un modelo ampliamente utilizado para medir este tipo de implementaciones. Los participantes fueron 380 personas (55,56% hombres), de las cuales 349 eran profesionales de la salud capacitados mediante el Programa de acción mundial para superar las brechas en salud mental (mhGAP, por su sigla en inglés) y 31 formaban parte del personal territorial encargado de planificar estrategias de atención de salud mental a nivel territorial en Colombia. Para evaluar los dominios cruciales de la implementación del mhGAP, elaboramos una escala de 18 puntos basada en el marco de implementación activa. Para evaluar la escala se realizaron determinaciones de la validez de contenido y un análisis factorial exploratorio. Como patrón de referencia se utilizó la escala Predisposición Organizacional a la Transferencia del Conocimiento para el Cambio de Práctica Clínica. Resultados. La escala de impulsores de la implementación determinó cuatro dominios: facilitadores del sistema para la implementación, accesibilidad de la estrategia, adaptabilidad y aceptabilidad, y capacitación en la estrategia y supervisión. Estos dominios presentaron valores de alfa de Cronbach de 0,914, 0,868, 0,927 y 0,725, respectivamente, lo que indica una coherencia interna elevada. Además, todos los dominios mostraron una correlación adecuada con la escala Predisposición Organizacional a la Transferencia del Conocimiento para el Cambio de Práctica Clínica. Conclusión. La escala de impulsores de la implementación permite determinar de manera efectiva la adaptabilidad y la implementación de diversos componentes de los programas de salud mental, en particular de los que se centran en enfoques basados en la comunidad y en entornos de atención primaria. En este sentido, esta escala puede contribuir a una implementación más eficaz de las estrategias esbozadas en los marcos políticos locales y mundiales, con la consiguiente mejora de la atención de salud mental.

Programa de acción para superar las brechas en salud mental: un modelo teórico de las barreras de implementación desde el personal de salud en Chocó, Colombia / Mental Health Gap Action Programme: a theoretical model of barriers to implementation by health personnel in Chocó, Colombia / Programa de Ação para Reduzir as Lacunas em Saúde Mental: modelo teórico das barreiras de implementação por profissionais de saúde de Chocó, Colômbia

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Los trastornos mentales, neurológicos y por consumo de sustancias psicoactivas (MNS) tienen una prevalencia alta y existe una brecha para su atención en Colombia. El Programa de acción para superar las brechas en salud mental (mhGAP, por su sigla en inglés) de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) tiene varios componentes. Uno de ellos es la Guía de intervención mhGAP 2.0, orientada a la mejora de la atención primaria en salud; se trata de una guía para la evaluación y el manejo de trastornos MNS a partir de protocolos de toma de decisiones clínicas. Se planteó como objetivo determinar las barreras que se pueden presentar en el proceso de implementación del programa. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo con enfoque de análisis de contenido que se desarrolló en tres fases: i) preparación, organización y presentación del estudio; ii) codificación abierta, categorización y abs- tracción de los contenidos; y iii) análisis de información. El estudio incluyó la entrevista semiestructurada a 21 personas involucradas en la prestación de servicios en salud mental en Chocó (Colombia): cinco profesionales de medicina, siete de enfermería y tres de psicología, además seis profesionales que trabajaban en el área administrativa de las secretarías de salud del departamento. Se exploraron las percepciones de las partes interesadas, que eran el personal asistencial y el personal administrativo del sector salud en el departamento del Chocó. Se realizaron preguntas abiertas para explorar las experiencias con el proceso y las barreras identificadas en la práctica. Resultados. Se identificaron cuatro categorías temáticas diferentes: intersectorialidad, viejos desafíos, posibilidades e idoneidad de herramientas. Conclusiones. Se construyó un modelo teórico sobre las barreras de implementación para el Programa de mhGAP desde las percepciones de las partes interesadas. El control de las barreras se percibe como un camino posible para generar un aporte significativo para la salud poblacional.

[ABSTRACT]. Objectives. Mental, neurological, and substance use (MNS) disorders have a high prevalence in Colombia and there is a treatment gap. The World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) has various components. The mhGAP 2.0 Intervention Guide, aimed at improving primary health care, is a guide for the assessment and management of MNS disorders based on clinical decision-making protocols. The objective of this study was to determine the barriers that may hinder the program implementation process. Methods. A qualitative study with content analysis was conducted in three phases: i) study preparation, organization, and presentation; ii) open coding, categorization, and abstraction of contents; and iii) information analysis. The study included semi-structured interviews with 21 people involved in the provision of mental health services in Chocó (Colombia): five medical doctors, seven nurses, and three psychologists, as well as six professionals working in the administrative area of the department's health secretariats. The perceptions of these stakeholders were explored. Open-ended questions were asked to explore experiences with the process, as well as the barriers identified in practice. Results. Four different thematic categories were identified: intersectoral action, long-standing challenges, opportunities, and suitability of tools. Conclusions. A theoretical model of barriers to implementation of the mhGAP program was constructed, based on stakeholder perceptions. Controlling barriers is perceived as a possible way to contribute significantly to population health.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Os transtornos mentais, neurológicos e por uso de substâncias psicoativas são muito prevalentes, e há uma lacuna na atenção a esses transtornos na Colômbia. O Programa de Ação para Reduzir as Lacunas em Saúde Mental (mhGAP, na sigla em inglês) da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) consta de vários componentes. Um deles é o Manual de Intervenções mhGAP 2.0, elaborado para aprimorar a atenção primária à saúde. O documento contém orientações para avaliação e manejo de transtornos mentais, neurológicos e por uso de substâncias psicoativas e foi elaborado com base em protocolos para a tomada de decisões clínicas. O objetivo do estudo foi determinar as barreiras que podem surgir no processo de imple- mentação do programa. Métodos. Estudo qualitativo com enfoque de análise de conteúdo desenvolvido em três fases: i) preparação, organização e apresentação do estudo; ii) codificação aberta, categorização e abstração do conteúdo; e iii) análise das informações. O estudo incluiu entrevistas semiestruturadas com 21 pessoas envolvidas na prestação de serviços de saúde mental em Chocó (Colômbia): cinco profissionais da medicina, sete de enfermagem e três de psicologia, bem como seis profissionais que trabalham na área administrativa das secretarias de saúde do departamento. As percepções das partes interessadas, ou seja, do pessoal assisten- cial e administrativo do setor de saúde no departamento de Chocó, foram exploradas. Foram feitas perguntas abertas a fim de investigar suas experiências com o processo de atenção e as barreiras identificadas na prática. Resultados. Foram identificadas quatro categorias temáticas: intersetorialidade, desafios de longa data, possibilidades e adequação das ferramentas. Conclusões. Elaborou-se um modelo teórico sobre as barreiras de implementação do Programa mhGAP com base nas percepções das partes interessadas. O controle das barreiras é visto como uma possível forma de contribuir significativamente para a saúde da população.

Sebaceous Adenoma: A Dermoscopic Case Perspective.

This report focuses on sebaceous skin tumors, specifically sebaceous adenoma, sebaceoma, and sebaceous carcinoma, along with their association with Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS). A clinical case of a 25-year-old male with a suspected sebaceous neoplasm based on dermoscopy appearance is presented. The histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis and surgical management resulted in successful treatment. The report highlights the importance of considering differential diagnoses and utilizing dermoscopy for accurate evaluation of these rare skin tumors.

Abundance and associated factors of Amblyomma tigrinum (Acari: Ixodidae) infesting wild foxes in north-central Chile.

The tick Amblyomma tigrinum inhabits areas with diverse climatic conditions, with adult stages parasitizing wild canids, such as chilla (Lycalopex griseus) and culpeo (Lycalopex culpaeus) foxes. We described the infestation loads in wild foxes captured at three sites (periurban, rural and wild) through an anthropization gradient in north-central Chile. We tested whether local-scale environmental and/or individual host factors can predict tick abundance by using negative binomial models. During 2018-2020 (spring and summer), we captured 116 foxes (44 chillas and 72 culpeos), and 102 of them were infested with ticks (87.9%, CI=80.6-93.2%). We collected 996 A. tigrinum adult ticks, estimating a total mean abundance of 8.6±0.8 ticks/host. Periurban and rural foxes harbored greater tick loads than foxes from the wild site (2.34 and 1.71 greater, respectively) while tick abundance in summer decreased by up to 57% compared to spring. Tempered, more humid climate conditions of the periurban site could favor the development and survival of adults A. tigrinum; and ticks may have adopted a quiescent stage or similar survival mechanisms to cope with summer temperature increases related to the ongoing megadrought. Further studies are warranted to understand the underlying factors determining the life cycle of A. tigrinum at larger spatiotemporal scales.

Poetry in youth mutual aid groups for recovery in rural and semi-urban environments.

BACKGROUND: For mental disorders Mutual Aid Groups (MAG) have been proposed, however, these have lack of methodologies that approach the needs of young people. The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of MAG in rural and semi-urban environments, developed through poetry, on the improvement of mental health. METHODS: A quasi-experimental study was carried out in Caldas, Colombia. 171 adolescents participated, divided into 10 MAG. Child Behavior Checklist 4-18 (CBCL/4-18) was used and the nuclear components of the MAG were applied, adding elements of introduction to poetry, creation and group rituals. RESULTS: Statistically significant associations (P < .001) were found between the number of sessions and the reduction of symptoms, as well as a decrease in Internalizing Problems and Social problems, after participating in the groups. CONCLUSION: Poetry applied to the core components of the MAG can improve psychiatric symptoms in adolescents.