A Comprehensive Study of Positive Body Image as a Predictor of Psychological Well-Being in Anorexia Nervosa.

Recent data suggest a close association between positive body image (PBI) and eating disorder recovery. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms through which PBI may facilitate recovery from anorexia nervosa (AN) remain unknown. To advance understanding of these mechanisms, this study examined core indices of PBI within AN, exploring its association with emotion regulation and well-being outcomes. Data were collected from 159 female participants, 64 with AN diagnosis and 95 healthy controls (HCs), who completed measures of PBI (body appreciation, functionality appreciation, and body responsiveness), emotion regulation, and psychological well-being (depression, anxiety, stress, and psychological quality of life). The AN group reported lower levels of PBI and psychological well-being, along with greater difficulties in regulating emotions, relative to HCs. PBI variables significantly predicted emotion regulation and psychological well-being in AN, accounting for 36% to 72% of the variance, with body appreciation emerging as the strongest predictor. These findings lend credence to the view that PBI can serve as a catalyst for psychological health. We hypothesize that enhancing PBI can improve interoceptive awareness, which is crucial for emotion regulation and reducing maladaptive food-related coping. Emphasizing a mind-body connection in lifestyle could be a relevant element to consider for both treating and preventing AN.

Predictors of Quality of Life in HIV-Infected Persons from Mozambique: The Dual Role of Schooling.

Increasing quality of life (QoL) is both an end in itself and a means to optimize the impact of treatment in HIV-infected persons. Possibly due to cultural and social influences, the predictors of QoL vary across studies, highlighting the importance of studying specific populations. In the present study, we aimed to determine the sociodemographic (age, sex and schooling, or number of years at school) and psychosocial correlates (meaning in life, social support, positive and negative affects) of QoL in HIV-infected persons living in Mozambique, a country with a high prevalence of HIV but also with well-structured strategies to fight the disease. To that end, we made correlational analyses followed by regression models and examined potential mediation processes among predictors. All correlates were relevant except for sex. Meaning in life was the strongest predictor, while social support was the weakest. Schooling was both directly and indirectly related with QoL-in the latter case, it was mediated by meaning in life, social support and positive affect. Our findings suggest that investments in education may be highly rewarding to Mozambicans, and that satisfying needs for self-actualization and purpose may be more urgent than improving social connections.

Contributos para a adaptação face ao surgimento de uma situação de perturbação neurocognitiva na família / Contributions to the family´s adaptation to the onset of a neurocognitive disorder / Contribuciones a la adaptación ante la aparición de una situación de trastorno neurocognitivo en la familia

Resumo Enquadramento: A família é o principal recurso da pessoa que adoece, assumindo-se, os seus constituintes, como cuidadores familiares. Objetivo: Identificar as variáveis que influenciam o impacto da perturbação neurocognitiva nos familiares e caracterizar os cuidadores de pessoas com PNC. Metodologia: Estudo quantitativo, descritivo e correlacional, com 262 familiares de pessoas com perturbação neurocognitiva. Resultados: Os cuidadores evidenciam uma associação entre as dimensões impacto emocional (r = 0,526; n = 102; p < 0,01), económica (r = 0,292; n = 102; p < 0,01), procura de suporte (r = 0,279; n = 102; p < 0,01), prestação de cuidados (r = 0,375; n = 102; p < 0,01) com maior sobrecarga percecionada. Entre os membros da família, quanto maior o impacto das relações familiares percebidas, maior o suporte social percebido (r = 0,219; n = 104; p < 0,05); quanto maior o impacto emocional, maior a necessidade de procura de suporte (r = 0,303; n = 104; p < 0,01); e quanto maior o impacto percebido na dimensão económica, maior a necessidade de procura de suporte (r = 0,319; n = 104; p < 0,01). Conclusão: O grau de funcionalidade da família, a dependência da pessoa cuidada, a escolaridade, o género e o grau de parentesco parecem ter influência na adaptação das famílias.

Abstract Background: The family is the main resource of patients, and family members take on the role of family caregivers. Objective: To identify the variables influencing the impact of a neurocognitive disorder (NCD) on family members and characterize the caregivers of people living with a NCD. Methodology: Quantitative, descriptive, and correlational study with a sample of 262 family members of people living with a NCD. Results: Caregivers revealed an association between the emotional dimension (r = 0.526; n = 102; p < 0.01), economic dimension (r = 0.292; n = 102; p < 0.01), support-seeking (r = 0.279; n = 102; p < 0.01), the healthcare-seeking dimension (r = 0.375; n = 102; p < 0.01) and a higher perceived burden. Among family members, the greater the impact of perceived family relations, the greater the perceived social support (r = 0.219; n = 104; p < 0.05); the greater the emotional impact, the greater the need to seek support (r = 0.303; n = 104; p < 0.01); and the greater the perceived impact on the economic dimension, the greater the need to seek support (r = 0.319; n = 104; p < 0.01). Conclusion: The family's functioning, the patient's level of dependence, the education level, the gender, and the degree of kinship seem to influence family adaptation.

Resumen Marco contextual: La familia es el principal recurso de la persona que cae enferma y sus miembros se consideran cuidadores familiares. Objetivo: Identificar las variables que influyen en el impacto del trastorno neurocognitivo en los familiares y caracterizar a los cuidadores de personas con PNC. Metodología: Estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo y correlacional, con 262 familiares de personas con trastorno neurocognitivo. Resultados: Los cuidadores observan una asociación entre las dimensiones impacto emocional (r = 0,526, n = 102, p < 0,01), económica (r = 0,292, n = 102, p < 0,01), búsqueda de apoyo (r = 0,279, n = 102, p < 0,01), prestación de cuidados (r = 0,375, n = 102, p < 0,01) con una mayor carga percibida. Entre los miembros de la familia, cuanto mayor es el impacto de las relaciones familiares percibidas, mayor es el apoyo social percibido (r = 0,219, n = 104, p < 0,05); cuanto mayor es el impacto emocional, mayor es la necesidad de buscar apoyo (r = 0,303, n = 104, p < 0,01), y cuanto mayor es el impacto percibido en la dimensión económica, mayor es la necesidad de buscar apoyo (r = 0,319, n = 104, p < 0,01). Conclusión: El grado de funcionalidad de la familia, la dependencia de la persona cuidada, la educación, el género y el grado de parentesco parecen influir en la adaptación de las familias.

Predictive Model of the Psychological Well-Being of Nursing Students During the COVID-19 Lockdown.

Introduction: Lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic radically changed nursing education. Along with social isolation, the transition to distance education affected the well-being of students in several countries, particularly Portugal and Spain. Objectives: To identify which variables are predictors of psychological well-being for Portuguese and Spanish nursing students during mandatory lockdowns. Methods: A multicenter, cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational study involving a sample of 1075 students (944 women, mean age 22.46 + /-4.95 years). Data were collected from an online questionnaire which applied the following scales: Perceived Stress Scale (α = .820); Brief COPE-14 Subscales (α = .430 < 0.930); Well-being Manifestations Measure Scale (α = .940); Herth Hope Index (α = .850). A multiple regression model was created to predict the psychological well-being of nursing students. Results: The following predictor variables were identified in the model of the psychological well-being of students during the COVID-19 pandemic: perceived stress (ß = .405; p ≤ .001); hope (ß = .404; p ≤ .001); and the mechanisms of active coping (ß = .405; p ≤ .001), planning (ß = .097; p ≤ .001), and positive reinterpretation (ß = .053; p = .12). These five variables predicted 62.0% of the nursing students' psychological well-being (R 2 = .620; F = 350.82; p ≤ .001). Conclusion: Promoting students' mental health is essential, especially in periods of great adversity, such as a pandemic. Our results lead the way for the design and validation of an intervention program that addresses the five variables identified as predictors of students' psychological well-being.

Validation of Questionnaire to Assess the Impact of Dementia on the Family.

OBJECTIVE: To validate a questionnaire to assess the impact of dementia on one of the household members. METHODS: Methodological study. The instrument was designed based on literature review, expert opinion, and researchers' experience and then applied to a non-probability convenience sample consisting of 262 family members who live daily with a person with dementia. The construct validity was studied by exploratory factor analysis, principal components method, with varimax rotation of the items. RESULTS: An instrument with 30 items was obtained, distributed in four dimensions: "Emotional dimension," "Economic dimension," "Family relations dimension," and "Support-seeking dimension." Factor analysis revealed a total explained variance of 54.96% and a total Cronbach's alpha of .899. CONCLUSIONS: The instrument presents high internal consistency, grouped into four dimensions, all closely related to the family's adaptation to the onset of dementia in one of its members.

The COVID-19 Pandemic and Professional Nursing Practice in the Context of Hospitals.

The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed challenges to health systems and institutions, which had to quickly create conditions to meet the growing health needs of the population. Thus, this study aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 on professional nursing practice environments and to identify the variables that affected their quality. Quantitative, observational study, conducted in 16 Portuguese hospitals, with 1575 nurses. Data were collected using a questionnaire and participants responded to two different moments in time: the pre-pandemic period and after the fourth critical period of COVID-19. The pandemic had a positive impact on the Structure and Outcome components, and a negative trend in the Process component. The variables associated with the qualification of the components and their dimensions were predominantly: work context, the exercise of functions in areas of assistance to COVID-19 patients, length of professional experience and length of experience in the service. The investment in professional practice environments impacted the improvement of organizational factors, supporting the development of nurses' work towards the quality of care. However, it is necessary to invest in nurses' participation, involvement and professional qualifications, which are aspects strongly dependent on the institutions' management strategies.

Ambientes de trabalho de enfermagem durante a covid-19: contribuições para desenvolver uma ferramenta tecnológica / Ambientes de trabajo de enfermería durante covid-19: contribuciones para desarrollar una herramienta tecnológica / Nursing work environments during covid-19: contributions to develop a technological tool

Objetivo: avaliar o impacto da COVID-19 nos ambientes de trabalho de enfermagem e desenvolver uma ferramenta tecnológica para avaliar sistematicamente a qualificação desses contextos. Método: pesquisa de método misto realizada em seis hospitais portugueses, com participação de 442 enfermeiros. Utilizou-se um questionário com caracterização sociodemográfica e profissional, a Scale for the Environments Evaluation of Professional Nursing Practice e questões abertas. Resultados: a COVID-19 teve impacto negativo nos componentes Estrutura (ƿ<0,001), Processo (ƿ<0,001) e Resultado (ƿ=0,009) dos ambientes de trabalho de enfermagem. A monitorização da qualidade dos ambientes de trabalho foi apontada como uma estratégia de melhoria. A ferramenta tecnológica desenvolvida permite identificar precocemente as dimensões mais fragilizadas e priorizar melhorias. Conclusão: a COVID-19 repercutiu negativamente nos ambientes de trabalho. A ferramenta tecnológica construída, que tornou mais dinâmica a avaliação dos ambientes de trabalho, além de garantir o envolvimento dos enfermeiros, constitui uma importante ferramenta de gestão.

Objetivo: evaluar el impacto de COVID-19 en los entornos de trabajo de enfermería y desarrollar una herramienta tecnológica para evaluar sistemáticamente la calificación de estos contextos. Método: investigación de método mixto realizada en seis hospitales portugueses, con participación de 442 enfermeros. Se utilizó un cuestionario con caracterización sociodemográfica y profesional, la Scale for the Environments Evaluation of Professional Nursing Practice y cuestiones abiertas. Resultados: La COVID-19 tuvo impacto negativo en los componentes Estructura (ƿ<0,001), Proceso (ƿ<0,001) y Resultado (ƿ=0,009) de los ambientes de trabajo de enfermería. La monitorización de la calidad de los entornos de trabajo fue apuntada como una estrategia de mejora. La herramienta tecnológica desarrollada permite identificar precozmente las dimensiones más fragilizadas y priorizar mejoras. Conclusión: COVID-19 tuvo un impacto negativo en los entornos de trabajo. La herramienta tecnológica construida, que hizo más dinámica la evaluación de los ambientes de trabajo, además de garantizar la participación de los enfermeros, constituye una importante herramienta de gestión.

Objective: to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on nursing work environments and to develop a technological tool to assess systematically the qualification of these contexts. Method: mixed method research conducted in six Portuguese hospitals, with the participation of 442 nurses. The questionnaire used contained sociodemographic and professional characterization, which was the Scale for the Environments Evaluation of Professional Nursing Practice and open questions. Results: COVID-19 had a negative impact on the components Structure (ƿ<0,001), Process (ƿ<0,001) and Result (ƿ=0,009) of nursing work environments. The monitoring of the quality of the work environments was pointed out as an improvement strategy. The technological tool developed allows identifying the most fragile dimensions early and prioritizing improvements. Final considerations: COVID-19 had a negative impact on work environments. The technological tool built, which made the evaluation of work environments more dynamic, in addition to ensuring the involvement of nurses, is an important management tool.

Validation of Questionnaire to Assess the Impact of Dementia on the Family / Validación de encuesta de evaluación del impacto de la demencia en la familia / Validação do questionário de avaliação do impacto da demência na família

ABSTRACT Objective: To validate a questionnaire to assess the impact of dementia on one of the household members. Methods: Methodological study. The instrument was designed based on literature review, expert opinion, and researchers' experience and then applied to a non-probability convenience sample consisting of 262 family members who live daily with a person with dementia. The construct validity was studied by exploratory factor analysis, principal components method, with varimax rotation of the items. Results: An instrument with 30 items was obtained, distributed in four dimensions: "Emotional dimension," "Economic dimension," "Family relations dimension," and "Support-seeking dimension." Factor analysis revealed a total explained variance of 54.96% and a total Cronbach's alpha of .899. Conclusions: The instrument presents high internal consistency, grouped into four dimensions, all closely related to the family's adaptation to the onset of dementia in one of its members.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Validar encuesta de evaluación del impacto de la demencia en uno de los miembros del agregado familiar. Métodos: Estudio metodológico. El instrumento fue construido basado en la revisión de la literatura, opinión de peritos y experiencia de los investigadores y, en seguida, aplicado a una muestra no probabilística de conveniencia constituida por 262 familiares que cohabitan diariamente con una persona con demencia. La validez de constructo fue estudiada por análisis factorial exploratorio, método de los componentes principales, con rotación varimax de los ítems. Resultados: Obtuvo un instrumento con 30 ítems, distribuidos en cuatro dimensiones: "Emocional", "Económica", "Relaciones familiares" y "Búsqueda de soporte". El análisis factorial reveló variancia explicada total de 54.96% y alfa de Cronbach total de .899. Conclusiones: El instrumento presenta consistencia interna elevada agrupándose en cuatro dimensiones, todas íntimamente relacionadas a la adaptación de la familia delante el aparecimiento de la demencia en uno de sus miembros.

RESUMO Objetivo: Validar um questionário de avaliação do impacto da demência num dos membros do agregado familiar. Métodos: Estudo metodológico. O instrumento foi construído, com base na revisão da literatura, na opinião de peritos e na experiência dos investigadores. Foi aplicado a uma amostra não probabilística de conveniência constituída por 262 familiares de pessoas que coabitam diariamente com a pessoa com demência. A validade de constructo foi estudada pela análise fatorial exploratória, método dos componentes principais, com rotação varimax dos itens. Resultados: Obteve-se um instrumento com 30 itens distribuídos por quatro dimensões "Dimensão emocional", "Dimensão económica", "Dimensão relações familiares" e "Dimensão procura de suporte". A análise fatorial revelou uma variância explicada total de 54,96% e um alfa de Cronbach total de ,899. Conclusões: O instrumento apresenta uma consistência interna elevada agrupando-se em quatro dimensões, todas elas intimamente ligadas à adaptação da família ao aparecimento da demência num dos seus membros.

Bem-estar psicológico e coping em estudantes de enfermagem durante a quarentena pela COVID-19 / Nursing students' psychological well-being and coping during the COVID-19 quarantine / Bienestar psicológico y afrontamiento (coping) en estudiantes de enfermería durante la cuarentena por la COVID-19

Resumo Enquadramento: A crise pandémica da COVID-19 acarretou mudanças na vida académica dos estudantes do ensino superior, o que poderá afetar o seu bem-estar psicológico. Objetivo: Analisar a relação entre estratégias de coping utilizadas e o bem-estar psicológico em estudantes de enfermagem durante a quarentena pela COVID-19. Metodologia: Estudo transversal, descritivo-correlacional, utilizando uma amostra de 136 estudantes. Colheita de dados online, com recurso à Escala de Medida de Manifestação de Bem-estar Psicológico e à Brief COPE. Resultados: Os estudantes dos últimos anos de curso utilizam mais frequentemente a estratégia de coping suporte instrumental (p = 0,015) e emocional (p = 0,009), apresentam ainda, maiores níveis de bem-estar psicológico (p = 0,012). As alterações no rendimento familiar estão associadas ao bem-estar psicológico (p = 0,024), assim como as estratégias de coping religião (r = 0,36; p ≤ 0,01), reinterpretação positiva (r = 0,47; p ≤ 0,01) e humor (r = 0,37; p ≤ 0,01). Conclusão: As estratégias de coping adotadas pelos estudantes parecem estar relacionadas com o bem-estar psicológico durante a quarentena.

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic crisis has brought about changes in the lives of higher education students that may influence their psychological well-being. Objective: To analyze the association between nursing students' coping strategies and their psychological well-being during the COVID-19 quarantine. Methodology: Cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational study using a convenience sample of 136 students. Data were collected online using the Portuguese version of the Échelle de Mesure des Manifestations du Bien-être Psychologique and the Brief COPE. Results: Students in the last years of their undergraduate studies used the instrumental support (p = 0.015) and emotional support (p = 0.009) coping strategies more often and had higher levels of psychological well-being (p = 0.012). Psychological well-being is associated with household income changes (p = 0.024), as well as with religion (r = 0.36; p ≤ 0.01), positive reframing (r = 0.47; p ≤ 0.01), and humor (r = 0.37; p ≤ 0.01) coping strategies. Conclusion: Students' coping strategies seem to be associated with their psychological well-being during the COVID-19 quarantine.

Resumen Marco contextual: La crisis provocada por la pandemia de la COVID-19 produjo cambios en la vida académica de los estudiantes de educación superior, que pueden afectar su bienestar psicológico. Objetivo: Analizar la relación entre las estrategias de afrontamiento utilizadas y el bienestar psicológico en estudiantes de enfermería durante la cuarentena por la COVID-19. Metodología: Estudio transversal, descriptivo-correlacional, con una muestra de 136 estudiantes. La recopilación de datos se realizó en línea mediante la Escala de Medición de la Manifestación del Bienestar Psicológico y el Brief COPE. Resultados: Los estudiantes de los últimos cursos utilizan con más frecuencia la estrategia de afrontamiento apoyo instrumental (p = 0,015) y emocional (p = 0,009), y también tienen mayores niveles de bienestar psicológico (p = 0,012). Los cambios en los ingresos familiares se asocian con el bienestar psicológico (p = 0,024), así como con las estrategias de afrontamiento religión (r = 0,36; p ≤ 0,01), reinterpretación positiva (r = 0,47; p ≤ 0,01) y estado de ánimo (r = 0,37; p ≤ 0,01). Conclusión: Las estrategias de afrontamiento adoptadas por los estudiantes parecen estar relacionadas con el bienestar psicológico durante la cuarentena.

Quantification and gene expression of Lactobacillus casei group species associated with dentinal lesions in early childhood caries.

BACKGROUND: Considering that the Lactobacillus casei group is strongly associated with caries progression, the use of lactobacilli as probiotics must be balanced due to their possible involvement in dental caries. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to detect and quantify L. paracasei, L. rhamnosus, and L. casei group species in the active and arrested dentinal lesions of preschoolers. It also aimed to determine the expression profiles of lactobacilli genes related to adhesion, extracellular polymeric substance regulation, and pyruvate oxidation. METHODS: Total ribonucleic acid (RNA) was extracted from dentinal lesion samples (25 active, 13 arrested) of children between 2 and 5 years of age. The samples were converted to complementary deoxyribonucleic acid (cDNA), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses were performed to quantify and determine the relative abundance (measured by percentage of total bacteria) of L. paracasei, L. rhamnosus, and L. casei group species. The expression profiles of L. paracasei/casei genes (spaC and spxB) and L. rhamnosus genes (spaE and wzb) were assessed. The Student t-test and the Mann-Whitney U test were used for comparisons. RESULTS: The L. casei group species were found to be part of the viable microbial community in dentinal caries. L. paracasei (p = 0.001), L. rhamnosus (p = 0.022), and L. casei (p = 0.004) group species were abundant in the active dentinal lesions compared to the arrested dentinal lesions. Only the wzb gene (p = 0.006) exhibited a statistically significant difference between the active and arrested lesions in terms of its expression profile; it was expressed to a higher extent in the active dentinal lesions. CONCLUSIONS: The L. casei group species presented in large numbers in the active dentinal caries lesions, indicating that these microorganisms are related to caries activity, and the wzb gene may play an important role in caries progression.

ADHERENCE TO THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN (1ST CYCLE).

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) in students from elementary schools in Porto and Maia and analyze its association with sleep hygiene, physical activity, cardiometabolic risk, and school performance. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with 891 Portuguese students: 455 boys (51%) and 436 girls (49%), aged between 9 and 11 years old (mean [M]=9.2, standard deviation [SD]=0.4), with an average weight of 35.9 kg (SD=8.1), average height of 1.4 m (SD=0.1), average body mass index (standardized BMI Z score for the pediatric age group) of 0.76 (SD=1.21); 59.5% of them had normal weight and 15.9% were obese. The students filled a questionnaire on the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (Mediterranean Diet Quality Index in Children and Adolescents [KIDMED]), participated in a socio-demographic interview, and had their anthropometric data collected after their parents signed the informed consent form. RESULTS: The results suggest high levels of adherence to the MD (77.6%) both in males and females. Using Pearson's correlation coefficient, we found that the Z score was positively associated to cardiometabolic risk and the starting age of an extracurricular physical activity, and negatively associated to the average hours of sleep on a typical day both in males and females. We also identified a negative relation between KIDMED and the starting age of physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: This study has contributed to the knowledge of adherence to the MD among Portuguese elementary students and correlations with variables associated to a healthier lifestyle (MD, hours of sleep, and physical activity). Future studies should focus their attention on other countries and more heterogeneous samples.

Adherence to the mediterranean diet in elementary school children (1st cycle) / Adesão à dieta mediterrânica em crianças do 1º ciclo de escolaridade

ABSTRACT Objective: To characterize the adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) in students from elementary schools in Porto and Maia and analyze its association with sleep hygiene, physical activity, cardiometabolic risk, and school performance. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 891 Portuguese students: 455 boys (51%) and 436 girls (49%), aged between 9 and 11 years old (mean [M]=9.2, standard deviation [SD]=0.4), with an average weight of 35.9 kg (SD=8.1), average height of 1.4 m (SD=0.1), average body mass index (standardized BMI Z score for the pediatric age group) of 0.76 (SD=1.21); 59.5% of them had normal weight and 15.9% were obese. The students filled a questionnaire on the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (Mediterranean Diet Quality Index in Children and Adolescents [KIDMED]), participated in a socio-demographic interview, and had their anthropometric data collected after their parents signed the informed consent form. Results: The results suggest high levels of adherence to the MD (77.6%) both in males and females. Using Pearson's correlation coefficient, we found that the Z score was positively associated to cardiometabolic risk and the starting age of an extracurricular physical activity, and negatively associated to the average hours of sleep on a typical day both in males and females. We also identified a negative relation between KIDMED and the starting age of physical activity. Conclusions: This study has contributed to the knowledge of adherence to the MD among Portuguese elementary students and correlations with variables associated to a healthier lifestyle (MD, hours of sleep, and physical activity). Future studies should focus their attention on other countries and more heterogeneous samples.

RESUMO Objetivo: Caracterizar a adesão à dieta mediterrânica de alunos de escolas primárias do Porto e Maia e analisar a sua associação com a higiene do sono, a atividade física, o risco cardiometabólico e o desempenho escolar. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 891 alunos portugueses: 455 meninos (51%) e 436 meninas (49%), entre 9 e 11 anos (média [M]= 9,2; desvio padrão [DP]= 0,4), peso médio 35,9 kg (DP= 8,1), estatura média 1,4 cm (DP= 0,1), índice de massa corporal médio (IMC padronizado por escore Z para a faixa etária pediátrica) 0,76 (DP= 1,2), 59,5% de pessoas com peso adequado e 15,9% de obesos. Os alunos completaram o Índice de Qualidade de Adesão à Dieta Mediterrânica em Crianças e Adolescentes (Mediterranean Diet Quality Index in Children and Adolescents [KIDMED]) e uma entrevista sociodemográfica e dados antropométricos, após obtenção do consentimento informado dos pais. Resultados: Os resultados sugerem altos níveis de adesão ao padrão alimentar mediterrânico (77,6%), tanto nos meninos como nas meninas. Recorrendo ao coeficiente de correlação de Pearson, encontramos associação positiva entre o escore Z e o risco cardiometabólico, associação negativa entre o escore Z e a média de horas de sono em um dia típico nos meninos e nas meninas, associação positiva entre o escore Z e a idade de início de uma atividade física extracurricular e associação negativa entre o KIDMED e a idade de início da atividade física. Conclusões: Este estudo contribuiu para o conhecimento da adesão ao padrão alimentar mediterrânico de alunos do 1º ciclo de escolaridade do Porto e da Maia e correlações com variáveis associadas a um estilo de vida mais saudável (adesão à dieta mediterrânica, horas de sono e atividade física). Estudos futuros deverão focar a sua atenção em outros países e com amostras mais heterogêneas.

Scientific evidence in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy: An alternative approach for reducing cariogenic bacteria.

Several studies of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) have been performed to verify the efficiency of this treatment against caries-related microorganisms. Thus, the aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of aPDT and to review the literature regarding its effects on cariogenic microorganisms organized in biofilms and/or caries lesions. The literature was searched for reviews and original papers about aPDT and its outcomes against Streptococcus mutans as well as other caries-associated microorganisms or caries lesions. Moreover, research on photosensitizers and light sources are also reviewed. The publications were selected using PubMed, Web of Science, and manual search of references cited in key papers. The descriptors used were "dental caries" and "photodynamic therapy". The relative efficacy of aPDT to reduce the population of cariogenic bacteria in in vitro biofilms is demonstrated by large number of laboratory studies. Preclinical (in situ models) and clinical studies show a less pronounced bacterial reduction for aPDT than for in vitro models, especially in dentin carious lesions, since the bacteria in dentin caries may be less susceptible to this therapy due to the limited photosensitizer penetration as well as reduced diffusion of light along dentin structures. Although aPDT may be an efficient and less invasive complementary approach to disinfect deep caries lesions, there is insufficient scientific evidence of its efficacy to warrant a clinical recommendation for its use.

Virulence factors and biofilm production by isolates of Bacteroides fragilis recovered from dog intestinal tracts.

Bacteroides fragilis colonizes dog guts both as a commensal and as an opportunistic pathogen. This study aims to evaluate virulence factors of 13 B. fragilis strains isolated from dog intestinal tracts and their ability for biofilm formation. Capsules were detected in all the evaluated strains. A total of 61.5% of all strains were biofilm producers. These attributes most likely play an important role in B. fragilis persistent colonization in the gut.

Virulence factors and biofilm production by isolates of Bacteroides fragilis recovered from dog intestinal tracts

Bacteroides fragilis colonizes dog guts both as a commensal and as an opportunistic pathogen. This study aims to evaluate virulence factors of 13 B. fragilis strains isolated from dog intestinal tracts and their ability for biofilm formation. Capsules were detected in all the evaluated strains. A total of 61.5% of all strains were biofilm producers. These attributes most likely play an important role in B. fragilis persistent colonization in the gut.

In vitro effect of antibiotics on biofilm formation by Bacteroides fragilis group strains isolated from intestinal microbiota of dogs and their antimicrobial susceptibility.

The Bacteroides fragilis group strains colonize the intestinal tract of dogs as commensal bacteria. Nevertheless, they can be opportunistic pathogens responsible for significant morbidity and mortality rates in dogs, like in oral infections, abscesses and wound infections. The purpose of this study was to evaluate antimicrobial susceptibility in B. fragilis strains isolated from dogs intestinal microbiota and to evaluate the effect of subinhibitory concentrations of some antimicrobials on biofilm formation. A total of 30 B. fragilis group strains were tested for susceptibility to ten antimicrobial agents by broth microdilution method. Thirteen B. fragilis strains were tested for biofilm formation and the biofilm producer strains were chosen to evaluate the effect of subinhibitory concentrations of six antimicrobials on biofilm formation. The isolates were susceptible to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, metronidazole, imipenem and chloramphenicol. Tetracycline and clindamycin were active against 50% and 33% of the strains, respectively. When biofilm-forming strains were grown in the presence of sub-MICs of imipenem and metronidazole, the inhibition of biofilm formation was observed. In contrast, enrofloxacin at ½ MIC caused a significant increase in biofilm formation in two of four strains examined. In conclusion, the B. fragilis group strains isolated were susceptible to most of the antimicrobials tested and the sub-MIC concentrations of imipenem, metronidazole and clindamycin were able to inhibit the biofilm formation.

Treatment adherence and subjective well-being in HIV/AIDS infection.

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between treatment adherence and subjective well-being (positive and negative affects and satisfaction with life) in HIV/AIDS infection. The empirical study was conducted at two Portuguese hospitals (Porto and Lisbon) with a sample of 197 outpatients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS attending the Infectology service and on antiretroviral medication, during a 6-month period (February-July 2009). All patients were asked for voluntary fulfillment of the questionnaire which recorded information on different socio-demographic variables. Clinical records were inspected in order to collect additional clinical information from the patients. The "Questionnaire to Assess Adherence to Antiretroviral Treatment-HIV" was used in order to assess the adherence degree in Portuguese version of Reis et al. The Portuguese versions of "Positive and Negative Affect Schedule" (PANAS) and the "Satisfaction with Life Scale" were used to measure subjective well-being. The study collected evidence on the positive correlation between therapeutic adherence (assessed by CEAT-VIH) and positive affect, as well as between adherence and satisfaction with life. Differences in therapeutic adherence and positive affect according to some clinical variables were also found. The multiplicity and the interaction of several determinants are being considered in the adjustment process during treatment for HIV/AIDS. The results may have implications for the psychological intervention directed at improving adherence to antiretroviral therapy.

Relação entre sintomatologia psicopatológica, adesão ao tratamento e qualidade de vida na infecção HIV e AIDS / Relationship among psychopathological symptoms, treatment adherence and quality of life in HIV/AIDS infection

O presente estudo observou a existência de relações significativas entre sintomatologia psicopatológica (BSI), adesão ao tratamento (CEAT-VIH) e qualidade de vida (WHOQOL-Bref) em 125 pessoas HIV-positivo/AIDS em tratamento antirretroviral, atendidos em um hospital do Porto (Portugal). A sintomatologia psicopatológica correlacionou-se negativamente com adesão ao tratamento e qualidade de vida, e a adesão ao tratamento associou-se positivamente com a qualidade de vida. O modelo preditor de adesão ao tratamento, mediante análise de regressão múltipla, incluiu a ausência de sintomatologia psicopatológica, o comportamento de retirada dos medicamentos na farmácia hospitalar e a presença de efeitos colaterais do tratamento (R² =0,30). Ademais, observou-se um efeito mediador de sintomatologia psicopatológica entre a adesão ao tratamento e a qualidade de vida das pessoas com HIV/AIDS.

The study shows evidence of statistical association among psychopathological symptoms (BSI), treatment adherence (CEAT-VIH) and quality of life (WHOQOL-Bref) in 125 HIV-positive/AIDS patients followed at Porto Hospital (Portugal). The psychopathological symptoms present a negative correlation with treatment adherence and quality of life. On the other hand, adherence was positively correlated with quality of life. The model of adherence to the antiretroviral treatment using multiple regression analysis includes absence of psychopathological symptoms, an adherence behavior (i.e. to get the medication at the hospital's pharmacy) and the experience of side effects because of medication (R² = 0.30). Besides, psychopathological symptoms have a mediation effect between adherence and quality of life in people with HIV/AIDS.

Relação entre sintomatologia psicopatológica, adesão ao tratamento e qualidade de vida na infecção HIV e AIDS / Relationship among psychopathological symptoms, treatment adherence and quality of life in HIV/AIDS infection

O presente estudo observou a existência de relações significativas entre sintomatologia psicopatológica (BSI), adesão ao tratamento (CEAT-VIH) e qualidade de vida (WHOQOL-Bref) em 125 pessoas HIV-positivo/AIDS em tratamento antirretroviral, atendidos em um hospital do Porto (Portugal). A sintomatologia psicopatológica correlacionou-se negativamente com adesão ao tratamento e qualidade de vida, e a adesão ao tratamento associou-se positivamente com a qualidade de vida. O modelo preditor de adesão ao tratamento, mediante análise de regressão múltipla, incluiu a ausência de sintomatologia psicopatológica, o comportamento de retirada dos medicamentos na farmácia hospitalar e a presença de efeitos colaterais do tratamento (R² =0,30). Ademais, observou-se um efeito mediador de sintomatologia psicopatológica entre a adesão ao tratamento e a qualidade de vida das pessoas com HIV/AIDS.(AU)

The study shows evidence of statistical association among psychopathological symptoms (BSI), treatment adherence (CEAT-VIH) and quality of life (WHOQOL-Bref) in 125 HIV-positive/AIDS patients followed at Porto Hospital (Portugal). The psychopathological symptoms present a negative correlation with treatment adherence and quality of life. On the other hand, adherence was positively correlated with quality of life. The model of adherence to the antiretroviral treatment using multiple regression analysis includes absence of psychopathological symptoms, an adherence behavior (i.e. to get the medication at the hospital's pharmacy) and the experience of side effects because of medication (R² = 0.30). Besides, psychopathological symptoms have a mediation effect between adherence and quality of life in people with HIV/AIDS.(AU)