RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: HIV disproportionately affects sexual minority men (SMM; eg, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men) in Lima, Peru; epidemiological data estimate that 32% to 39% of new HIV infections occur among adult cisgender SMM within primary partnerships (ie, male couples). Most HIV prevention-care research in Lima, Peru, has focused on SMM as individuals and not couples. To help address this critical gap in prevention care, we developed Para Ti, Para Mí, Para Nosotros (P3): a couples-based, digital HIV serostatus-neutral intervention (DHI) for adult cisgender SMM couples in Lima, Peru. The P3 DHI is designed to facilitate couples with skill-building, communication, decision-making, and working together to form and adhere to a detailed prevention care plan that aligns with their explicit sexual agreement. The P3 DHI is theoretically informed, self-guided, directed, sequential, and fully automated. OBJECTIVE: This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to examine the preliminary effects of P3 on couples' formation and adherence to a detailed prevention care plan containing evidence-based strategies that also aligns with their explicit sexual agreement over time. In addition, the feasibility of enrollment and retention and couples' acceptability of P3 will be assessed. METHODS: The research implements a prospective, 6-month pilot RCT with a 3-month delayed control condition. After baseline, 60 enrolled SMM couples will be randomized to 1 of 2 conditions. Couples randomized to the unmatched, delayed control condition will receive access to the P3 DHI to use during the last 3 months of the trial after the 3-month assessment. Couples randomized to the immediate intervention condition will immediately receive access to the P3 DHI for 6 months. Study assessments will occur at baseline and months 3 and 6. Descriptive, comparative, qualitative, and longitudinal analyses using generalized linear mixed-effect, multilevel, and actor-partner interdependence models will be conducted to address the specific aims. RESULTS: The 6-month pilot RCT is ongoing. Recruitment, enrollment, and data collection began in January 2023 and ended in April 2024. A total of 74 adult cisgender SMM couples met all inclusion criteria, provided consent, and were enrolled in the pilot RCT. Retention was 92% (68/74) at month 6. Data are currently being analyzed to address the 3 specific aims regarding feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy. CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this research will reveal whether couples deemed the P3 DHI to be acceptable. Findings will also highlight the preliminary efficacy of the P3 DHI on couples managing their vulnerability to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) over time via alignment of their prevention-care plan and sexual agreement. Trial findings will help shape the future direction of the P3 DHI while addressing the existing gap in prevention and care services for couples in the local context. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05873855; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05873855. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/63106.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Smartphones, internet access, and social media represent a new form of problematic behavior and can affect how teens sleep. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was employed to examine the prevalence and association of problematic internet use and problematic smartphone use with sleep quality in a non-probability sample of 190 high school students in Mexico. The internet-related experiences questionnaire (IREQ), the mobile-related experiences questionnaire (MREQ), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used. RESULTS: The study revealed that 66% of participants exhibited some form of problematic internet use, primarily in the form of social media use; 68% had some form of problematic smartphone use, and 84% reported poor sleep quality. The PSQI score was most accurately predicted by problematic smartphone use (MREQ), followed by enrollment in the morning school shift, participation in sports, the father's education level, and knowledge that "smartphone use disturbs sleep", which together explained 23% of the variation in sleep quality. CONCLUSIONS: Excessive smartphone use may negatively affect sleep quality in adolescents. We recommended that interventions be implemented to educate adolescents about appropriate and healthy use of technology, in parallel with the promotion of preventive sleep habits.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: The widespread use of mobile technologies in health care (mobile health; mHealth) has facilitated disease management, especially for chronic illnesses such as diabetes. mHealth for diabetes is an attractive alternative to reduce costs and overcome geographical and temporal barriers to improve patients' conditions. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to reveal the dynamics of scientific publications on mHealth for diabetes to gain insights into who are the most prominent authors, countries, institutions, and journals and what are the most cited documents and current hot spots. METHODS: A scientometric analysis based on a competitive technology intelligence methodology was conducted. An innovative 8-step methodology supported by experts was executed considering scientific documents published between 1998 and 2021 in the Science Citation Index Expanded database. Publication language, publication output characteristics, journals, countries and institutions, authors, and most cited and most impactful articles were identified. RESULTS: The insights obtained show that a total of 1574 scientific articles were published by 7922 authors from 90 countries, with an average of 15 (SD 38) citations and 6.5 (SD 4.4) authors per article. These documents were published in 491 journals and 92 Web of Science categories. The most productive country was the United States, followed by the United Kingdom, China, Australia, and South Korea, and the top 3 most productive institutions came from the United States, whereas the top 3 most cited articles were published in 2016, 2009, and 2017 and the top 3 most impactful articles were published in 2016 and 2017. CONCLUSIONS: This approach provides a comprehensive knowledge panorama of research productivity in mHealth for diabetes, identifying new insights and opportunities for research and development and innovation, including collaboration with other entities, new areas of specialization, and human resource development. The findings obtained are useful for decision-making in policy planning, resource allocation, and identification of research opportunities, benefiting researchers, health professionals, and decision makers in their efforts to make significant contributions to the advancement of diabetes science.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Digital technology and gamified apps can be useful in the health care context. Gamification uses technology to influence users' actions and motivations through experiences that resemble games. Patient adherence to the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program is crucial for achieving early recovery after surgery and continuous monitoring is essential for obtaining good results. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe the development and validation of a mobile app for enhanced recovery after surgery (MobERAS), a gamified mobile health app for telemonitoring patients in the postoperative period based on the ERAS program, and to evaluate its functionality and usability and the experience of patients, health care professionals, and computer professionals with its use. METHODS: We developed MobERAS for postoperative telemonitoring, with active participation of patients in the process, and offering availability of real-time information for the health team. The app development process included idealization, interdisciplinary team formation, potential needs assessment, and product deployment. Usability tests were conducted throughout the development process with improvements, technical adjustments, and updates. After finalization, comprehensive verification tests were performed. The parameters evaluated are those that can influence the length of hospital stay, such as nausea, vomiting, pain scales, return to normal gastrointestinal function, and thromboembolic events. MobERAS was designed to be downloaded by users on their phones, tablets, or other mobile devices and to provide postoperative data. The app has a GPS that monitors the patient's walking time and distance and is connected to a virtual database that stores the collected data. RESULTS: Women undergoing medium and major gynecologic oncologic surgeries were included. We included 65 patients with an average age of 53.2 (SD 7.4, range 18-85) years. The time of use ranged from 23.4 to 70 hours (mean 45.1, SD 19.2 hours). Regarding adherence to the use of MobERAS, the mean fill rate was 56.3% (SD 12.1%, range 41.7%-100%), and ambulation data were obtained for 60 (92.3%) of the 65 patients. The researcher had access to the data filled out by the patients in real time. There was good acceptance of the use of MobERAS by the patients, with good evaluation of the app's usability. MobERAS was easy to use and considered attractive because of its gamified design. The app was rated as good or very good in all items by health care professionals (n=20) and professionals specializing in technological innovation (n=10). CONCLUSIONS: MobERAS is easy to use, safe, well accepted by patients, and well evaluated by experts. It can be of great use in clinical surgical practice and an important tool for greater engagement of patients and health care professionals with the ERAS program.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Psychological internet-based interventions have shown promise in preventing and treating perinatal depression, but their effectiveness can be hindered by low user engagement. This challenge often arises from a misalignment between technology attributes, user needs, and context. A user-centered, iterative approach involving all stakeholders is recommended. OBJECTIVE: In this paper, we aimed to develop a user-friendly psychological internet-based intervention aimed at addressing the symptoms of perinatal depression through an iterative, user-centered approach. METHODS: The development process followed the Center for eHealth Research and Disease Management Roadmap phases of contextual inquiry, value specification, and design. It involved a comprehensive literature review, 2 surveys, 10 focus groups, 5 usability interviews, and 1 technical pilot. RESULTS: The contextual inquiry revealed a demand for accessible interventions for perinatal mental health, with internet-based solutions seen as viable options. Insights from the literature influenced intervention content and features. Stakeholders' openness to the intervention became evident during this phase, along with the integration of the first set of values. Initially, we assessed the broader perinatal context to identify the optimal period for the intervention. On the basis of the findings and practical considerations, we decided to specifically target postpartum depression symptoms. The value specification phase further defined the central values and translated them into requirements. In the design phase, feedback was obtained on the user experience of an early digital prototype and on the prototype's final version. The resulting intervention, named Mamá, te entiendo ("Mom, I get you"), is a guided web app based on cognitive behavioral therapy principles, integrating elements from attachment and mentalization theories. It aims to reduce depressive symptoms in women during the first months postpartum and consists of 6 core sequential modules, along with 3 additional modules, including 5 case examples illustrating depressive symptoms and therapeutic techniques. The intervention provides homework exercises and offers users the opportunity to receive feedback from an e-coach through the web app. CONCLUSIONS: This study emphasizes the importance of a user-centered and iterative development process for psychological internet-based interventions. This process helps clarify user needs and provides valuable feedback on service design and quality, ultimately having the potential to enhance the utility and, presumably, the effectiveness of the intervention. The Discussion section shares valuable insights from the project, such as the value of the requirement sessions.

RESUMEN

INTRODUCTION: Common side effects after stem cell transplantation (SCT), such as anorexia, nausea, and vomiting, can disrupt the quality of life of patients. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of self-care education with smart phone applications on the severity of nausea and vomiting after SCT in leukemia patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this clinical trial study, using the blocked randomization method 104 leukemia patients undergoing SCT were assigned to two groups, intervention and control. The patients of the Control Group received routine care, and the Intervention Group received self-care education with a smart mobile phone application, in addition to routine care. Two weeks, one month, and three months after the start of the intervention, the severity of nausea and vomiting was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Khavar Oncology scale, both of which were completed by both Control and Intervention Groups. Data were analyzed using chi-square, Fisher's exact, Mann-Whitney, and Friedman tests using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 software. RESULTS: The severity of nausea and vomiting in leukemia patients undergoing SCT was significantly different in the two groups at all three timepoints (two weeks, one month, and three months) after transplantation (p-value = 0.000). CONCLUSION: The severity of nausea and vomiting after SCT in leukemia patients was improved by self-care education with a smart phone application. Therefore, this method is recommended to reduce the severity of nausea and vomiting in leukemia patients who undergo transplantation.

RESUMEN

En la relación de pareja, el empleo del celular puede llegar a ocasionar conflictos, lo que afectaría la valoración de la unión conyugal. Objetivo: Determinar la asociación entre la satisfacción con la relación de pareja y los conflictos por el uso del celular en adultos peruanos. Materiales y Métodos. Estudio cuantitativo, de tipo no experimental, transversal y correlacional. La muestra fue constituida por 325 adultos peruanos mediante un muestreo no probabilístico. La información se recolectó mediante la técnica de la encuesta y como instrumento dos cuestionarios, la Escala de Valoración de la Relación propuesto por Hendrick y la Escala de Conflictos Relacionados al uso del celular de Roberts y David. Resultados. La satisfacción con la relación de pareja fue mayormente moderada para el 43,5%. Entre tanto, indicaron algún nivel de conflicto por el uso del celular el 72,9%. Además, no se encontró diferencias significativas en la satisfacción con la relación de pareja según el sexo. Conclusiones. Existe relación negativa moderada y significativa entre la satisfacción con la relación de pareja y los conflictos por el uso del celular en adultos peruanos (rs= -0.456), donde se alcanzó una p=0,000 (<0.05). De esta manera se sostiene que a mayor satisfacción, menores serán los conflictos percibidos por el uso del celular.

In the couple relationship, the use of cell phones can lead to conflicts, which would affect the assessment of the marital union. Objective: To determine the association between satisfaction with the couple relationship and conflicts due to cell phone use in Peruvian adults. Materials and Methods. Quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional and correlational study. The sample consisted of 325 Peruvian adults through non-probabilistic sampling. The information was collected using the survey technique and two questionnaires as instruments, the Relationship Assessment Scale proposed by Hendrick and the Conflicts Related to Cell Phone Use Scale by Roberts and David. Results. Satisfaction with the couple relationship was mostly moderate at 43.5%. Meanwhile, 72.9% indicated some level of conflict due to cell phone use. Furthermore, no significant differences were found in satisfaction with the couple relationship according to sex. Conclusions. There is a moderate and significant negative relationship between satisfaction with the couple relationship and conflicts due to cell phone use in Peruvian adults (rs= -0.456), where p=0.000 (<0.05) was reached. In this way, it is argued that the greater the satisfaction, the fewer the perceived conflicts due to cell phone use.

No relacionamento conjugal, o uso de celulares pode levar a conflitos, o que afetaria a avaliação da união conjugal. Objetivo: Determinar a associação entre a satisfação com o relacionamento conjugal e os conflitos devido ao uso de celular em adultos peruanos. Materiais e Métodos. Estudo quantitativo, não experimental, transversal e correlacional. A amostra foi constituída por 325 adultos peruanos através de amostragem não probabilística. As informações foram coletadas utilizando a técnica de survey e dois questionários como instrumentos, a Escala de Avaliação de Relacionamento proposta por Hendrick e a Escala de Conflitos Relacionados ao Uso de Celular de Roberts e David. Resultados. A satisfação com o relacionamento conjugal foi predominantemente moderada em 43,5%. Enquanto isso, 72,9% indicaram algum nível de conflito devido ao uso de celular. Além disso, não foram encontradas diferenças significativas na satisfação com o relacionamento conjugal de acordo com o sexo. Conclusões. Existe uma relação negativa moderada e significativa entre a satisfação com o relacionamento conjugal e os conflitos devido ao uso de celular em adultos peruanos (rs= -0,456), onde foi atingido p=0,000 (<0,05). Dessa forma, argumenta-se que quanto maior a satisfação, menores serão os conflitos percebidos devido ao uso de celular.

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to conduct a detailed geospatial analysis of mobile phone signal coverage in the northwest macro-region of Paraná State, Brazil, seeking to identify areas where limitations in coverage may be related to lengthy travel times of the helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) for the assistance of victims of road traffic injuries (RTIs). METHODS: An observational study was conducted to examine mobile phone signal coverage and HEMS travel times from 2017 to 2021. HEMS travel times were categorized into four groups: T1 (0-15 min), T2 (16-30 min), T3 (31-45 min), and T4 (over 45 min). Empirical Bayesian Kriging was used to map areas with low mobile signal coverage. The Kruskal-Wallis test and Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner comparative analyses were performed to explore how mobile signal coverage relates to HEMS travel times to RTI locations. RESULTS: There were 470 occurrences of RTIs attended by HEMS, of which 108 (23%) resulted in on-site fatalities. Among these deaths, 47 (26.85%) occurred in areas with low mobile phone signal coverage ("shadow areas"). Low mobile phone signal coverage identified at 175 (37.24%) RTIs locations, was unevenly distributed across the macro-region. The lowest medians of mobile signal quality were predominantly found in areas with HEMS travel times exceeding 30 min, corresponding to signal strength values of -98.44 (T3) and -100.75 (T4) dBm. This scenario represents a challenge for effective communication to activate HEMS. In the multiple comparison analysis among travel time groups, significant differences were observed between T1 and T2 (p < 0.001), T1 and T3 (p < 0.001), T1 and T4 (p < 0.001), and T2 and T3 (p < 0.001), indicating a potential association between lower mobile phone signal coverage and longer HEMS travel times. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that poor mobile phone signals in remote areas can hinder HEMS activation, potentially delaying the start of treatment for RTIs. Identification of the shadow areas can help communication and health managers in designing and implementing the necessary changes to improve mobile phone signal coverage and consequently reduce delays in the initial response to RTIs.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Arboviral diseases remain a significant health concern worldwide, with over half the world's population at risk for dengue alone. Without a vaccine or targeted treatment, the most effective strategy of prevention is vector management with community involvement. mHealth interventions, like WhatsApp, offer promising results for engaging communities and promoting healthier behaviors. This study explores the feasibility of integrating WhatsApp in vector control activities to improve arbovirus prevention in Colombia. A mixed-methods approach was employed to assess the WhatsApp-based intervention. WhatsApp messages were sent to 45 community women for 5 weeks to increase their knowledge and practices about dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. Pre-and-post surveys and focus group discussions were conducted in community settings to measure the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention. Chat reviews were done to assess the usability of users. A total of 1566 messages were exchanged in 45 WhatsApp chats. High acceptance and good usability (82% of users used the app for replying) were reported in this study. WhatsApp messages were perceived as short, clear, and enjoyable. Users liked the frequency, and design of messages. Pre- and post-surveys demonstrated improvements in the knowledge and practices of arboviral diseases. The intention to apply this knowledge in practice was reflected in a significant improvement, particularly in cleaning the laundry tank once a week (pre 62.1% to post 89.6%, p < 0.008). This study suggests that using WhatsApp as an additional tool could be a feasible, acceptable, and affordable strategy for improving the adoption of better practices in the prevention of arboviral diseases.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Introducción: El síndrome visual informático o fatiga visual digital es una enfermedad causada por el cansancio ocular que provoca el pasar mucho tiempo frente a una pantalla. Objetivo: Diagnosticar el síndrome visual informático en pacientes menores de 35 años atendidos en la consulta de refracción. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo prospectivo y transversal de pacientes atendidos en la consulta de refracción del Policlínico Especialidades del Hospital Provincial Docente Clínicoquirúrgico Saturnino Lora, durante el periodo de abril a junio de 2022. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes en las edades comprendidas entre 26 y 35 años y del sexo femenino; los síntomas más frecuentes fueron el cansancio visual, ardor ocular, sensación de ojo seco, visión borrosa de cerca, ojo rojo y el dolor de cabeza después del esfuerzo visual. Los dispositivos digitales más usados fueron el celular y la computadora con un tiempo de uso de una a tres horas, destacándose este último con un tiempo superior a 4 horas. Los defectos refractivos constituyeron la principal causa de limitaciones visuales. Los pacientes con síndrome visual informático y alguna ametropía sin corrección fueron los que mayor cantidad de síntomas tuvieron, seguidos de los pacientes corregidos inadecuadamente. Conclusiones: Este síndrome afecta en gran medida a la población más joven. El adecuado interrogatorio y la incorporación de los procedimientos correctos en el estudio optométrico diario permitió el diagnóstico de tal síndrome en los pacientes atendidos y la corrección óptica pertinente.

Introduction: Digital visual syndrome or digital visual fatigue is a disease caused by the ocular fatigue provoked by spending much time in front of a screen. Objective: To diagnose the digital visual syndrome in patients under 35 years assisted in the refraction service. Methods: A prospective descriptive and cross-sectional study of patients assisted in the refraction service of the Specialties Polyclinic in Saturnino Lora Teaching Clinical Surgical Provincial Hospital, was carried out from April to June, 2022. Results: There was a prevalence of patients aged 26 and 35 and female sex; the most frequent symptoms were visual fatigue, ocular burning, dry eye sensation, closely blurred vision, red eye and headache after visual effort. The most used digital devices were the cellphone and the computer with a time of use from one to three hours, with emphasis in the last one with more than 4 hours. The refractive defects constituted the main cause of visual limitations. The patients with digital visual syndrome and some type of ametropia without correction were those with more symptoms, followed by the patients inadequately corrected. Conclusions: This syndrome affects the youngest population to a great extent. The appropriate interrogation and the incorporation of correct procedures in the daily optometric study allowed the diagnosis of such a syndrome in the assisted patients and the pertinent optic correction.

RESUMEN

The COVID-19 pandemic presented numerous challenges that required immediate attention to mitigate its devastating consequences on a local and global scale. In March 2020, the Chilean government, along with health and science authorities, implemented a strategy aimed at generating relevant evidence to inform effective public health decisions. One of the key strengths of this strategy was the active involvement of the scientific community, employing transdisciplinary approaches to address critical questions and support political decision-making. The strategy promoted collaborations between the government, public and private institutions, and transdisciplinary academic groups throughout each phase of the pandemic. By focusing on pressing problems and questions, this approach formed the foundation of this report which reflects the collaborative effort throughout the pandemic of individuals from the Instituto de Sistemas Complejos de Ingeniería (ISCI), the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Chile, government authorities and industry. Early in the pandemic, it became crucial to gather evidence on how to minimize the impact of infection and disease while awaiting the availability of vaccines. This included studying the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, assessing the impact of quarantines on people's mobility, implementing strategies for widespread SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and exploring pool testing for large populations. The urgent need to reduce disease severity and transmission posed a significant challenge, as it was essential to prevent overwhelming healthcare systems. Studies were conducted to predict ICU bed requirements at the local level using mathematical models. Additionally, novel approaches, such as using cellphone mobility-based technology to actively identify infected individuals, and to optimize population sampling, were explored following the first wave of the pandemic. Chile took early action in addressing vaccination through a high-level scientific board, before vaccines became available. Studies conducted during this period included population-based immunologic evaluations of different vaccines, which helped build confidence in the population and supported the need for booster doses and potential vaccination of children. These studies and collaborations, which will be discussed here, have provided valuable insights and will inform future approaches in a post-pandemic world. Importantly, highly conservative estimates indicate that 3,000 lives and more than 300 million USD were saved by this academic-public-private collaborative effort.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Although comprehensive lifestyle habits are crucial for healthy aging, their adherence tends to decline as individuals grow older. Sustaining a healthy life over time poses a motivational challenge. Some digital tools, such as smartphone apps aimed at promoting healthy habits, have been used to counteract this decline. However, a more profound investigation is necessary into the diverse experiences of users, particularly when it concerns older adults or those who are unfamiliar with information and communications technologies. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to develop a mobile app focused on promoting the health of older adults based on the principles of software engineering and a user-centered design. The project respected all ethical guidelines and involved the participation of older adults at various stages of the development of the app. METHODS: This study used a mixed methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methodologies for data collection. The study was conducted in Ribeirão Prêto, São Paulo, Brazil, and involved 20 older adults of both genders who were aged ≥60 years and enrolled in the Physical Education Program for the Elderly at the University of São Paulo. The research unfolded in multiple phases, encompassing the development and refinement of the app with active engagement from the participants. RESULTS: A total of 20 participants used a mobile health app with an average age of 64.8 (SD 2.7) years. Most participants had a high school education, middle-class status, and varying health literacy (mean score 73.55, SD 26.70). Overall, 90% (18/20) of the participants owned smartphones. However, 20% (4/20) of the participants faced installation challenges and 30% (6/20) struggled with web-based searches. The focus groups assessed app usability and satisfaction. Adjustments increased satisfaction scores significantly (Suitability Assessment of Materials: 34.89% to 70.65%; System Usability Scale: 71.23 to 87.14). Participant feedback emphasized font size, navigation, visual feedback, and personalization, and suggestions included health device integration, social interaction, and in-app communication support. CONCLUSIONS: This study contributes to the development of health care technologies tailored to the older adult population, considering their specific needs. It is anticipated that the resulting app will serve as a valuable tool for promoting healthy habits and enhancing the quality of life for older adults.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: In nursing education, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills is crucial for developing competence in clinical practice. Nursing students encounter challenges in acquiring these essential skills, making self-efficacy a critical component in their professional development. Self-efficacy pertains to individual's belief in their ability to perform tasks and overcome challenges, with significant implications for clinical skills acquisition and academic success. Previous research has underscored the strong link between nursing students' self-efficacy and their clinical competence. Technology has emerged as a promising tool to enhance self-efficacy by enabling personalized learning experiences and in-depth discussions. However, there is a need for a comprehensive literature review to assess the existing body of knowledge and identify research gaps. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to systematically map and identify gaps in published studies on the use of technology-supported guidance models to stimulate nursing students' self-efficacy in clinical practice. METHODS: This scoping review followed the framework of Arksey and O'Malley and was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A systematic, comprehensive literature search was conducted in ERIC, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science for studies published between January 2011 and April 2023. The reference lists of the included papers were manually searched to identify additional studies. Pairs of authors screened the papers, assessed eligibility, and extracted the data. The data were thematically organized. RESULTS: A total of 8 studies were included and four thematic groups were identified: (1) technological solutions for learning support, (2) learning focus in clinical practice, (3) teaching strategies and theoretical approaches for self-efficacy, and (4) assessment of self-efficacy and complementary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Various technological solutions were adopted in the guidance models to stimulate the self-efficacy of nursing students in clinical practice, leading to positive findings. A total of 7 out of 8 studies presented results that were not statistically significant, highlighting the need for further refinement of the applied interventions. Nurse educators play a pivotal role in applying learning strategies and theoretical approaches to enhance nursing students' self-efficacy, but the contributions of nurse preceptors and peers should not be overlooked. Future studies should consider involving users in the intervention process and using validated instruments tailored to the studies' intervention objectives, ensuring relevance and enabling comparisons across studies.

RESUMEN

Introduction: Technological advancements have the potential to enhance people's quality of life, but their misuse can have a detrimental impact on safety. A notable example is the escalating issue of distracted driving resulting from the use of mobile phones behind the wheel, leading to severe crashes and injuries. Despite these concerns, both drivers' usage patterns and their risk-related associations remain scarcely documented in Mexico. Therefore, this descriptive study aimed to examine the mobile phone usage of Mexican drivers, its relationships to risk awareness and near-miss/crash involvement, and the self-reported underlying reasons for this behavior. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized a sample of 1,353 licensed Mexican drivers who took part in a nationwide series of interviews regarding their onboard phone use settings. Results: A significant percentage of drivers (96.8%) recognize using a mobile phone while driving as high-risk behavior. However, only 7.4% reported completely avoiding its use while driving, with 22.4% identified as high-frequency users. Frequency was also found positively associated with the self-reported rate of near-misses and crashes. Furthermore, qualitative data analysis highlights the emergence of a 'sense of urgency' to attend to phone-related tasks in response to daily demands and life dynamics, offering a potential explanation for this behavior. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest common patterns of onboard mobile use among Mexican drivers concerning driving situations and associated risks. This underscores the need for increased efforts to discourage onboard phone use in the country.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Uptake of mobile phone surveys (MPS) is increasing in many low- and middle-income countries, particularly within the context of data collection on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) behavioural risk factors. One barrier to collecting representative data through MPS is capturing data from older participants.Respondent driven sampling (RDS) consists of chain-referral strategies where existing study subjects recruit follow-up participants purposively based on predefined eligibility criteria. Adapting RDS strategies to MPS efforts could, theoretically, yield higher rates of participation for that age group. OBJECTIVE: To investigate factors that influence the perceived acceptability of a RDS recruitment method for MPS involving people over 45 years of age living in Colombia. METHODS: An MPS recruitment strategy deploying RDS techniques was piloted to increase participation of older populations. We conducted a qualitative study that drew from surveys with open and closed-ended items, semi-structured interviews for feedback, and focus group discussions to explore perceptions of the strategy and barriers to its application amongst MPS participants. RESULTS: The strategy's success is affected by factors such as cultural adaptation, institutional credibility and public trust, data protection, and challenges with mobile phone technology. These factors are relevant to individuals' willingness to facilitate RDS efforts targeting hard-to-reach people. Recruitment strategies are valuable in part because hard-to-reach populations are often most accessible through their contacts within their social network who can serve as trust liaisons and drive engagement. CONCLUSIONS: These findings may inform future studies where similar interventions are being considered to improve access to mobile phone-based data collection amongst hard-to-reach groups.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Resumo Objetivo Descrever o processo de construção e avaliação de um protótipo de aplicativo de telefonia móvel que promova acessibilidade em chamada de socorro pré-hospitalar por pessoas com necessidades comunicativas especiais. Métodos Estudo metodológico, realizado em três etapas: definição de requisitos funcionais da população alvo; construção e disponibilização do protótipo de aplicativo para celulares touchscreen para solicitação de atendimento pré-hospitalar; avaliação das heurísticas de usabilidade por peritos, por meio de checklist, e pela população-alvo, pessoas com necessidades comunicativas especiais, utilizando a System Usability Scale. Foi realizada análise estatística descritiva e calculadas as pontuações e escores de avaliação do aplicativo. Resultados O aplicativo apresentou alta usabilidade (média de 58,75 pontos) e 21 sujeitos da população-alvo indicaram um excelente índice de satisfação do usuário (média de 89,5 pontos), oportunizando o registro e patente do protótipo. Conclusão O protótipo construído, demonstrou capacidade para promover acessibilidade comunicativa de convocação de socorro pré-hospitalar para pessoas com necessidades comunicativas especiais.

Resumen Objetivo Describir el proceso de elaboración y evaluación de un modelo de aplicación de telefonía móvil que promueva la accesibilidad en llamadas de asistencia prehospitalaria para personas con necesidades comunicativas especiales. Métodos Estudio metodológico realizado en tres etapas: definir los requisitos funcionales del público destinatario; elaborar y poner a disposición el modelo de la aplicación para celulares touchscreen para la solicitación de asistencia prehospitalaria, y evaluar las heurísticas de usabilidad por peritos, mediante checklist, y por el público destinatario, personas con necesidades comunicativas especiales, utilizando la System Usability Scale. Se realizó el análisis estadístico descriptivo y se calcularon los puntajes de evaluación de la aplicación. Resultados La aplicación presentó una alta usabilidad (promedio de 58,75 puntos) y 21 personas del público destinatario indicaron un excelente índice de satisfacción del usuario (promedio de 89,5 puntos), lo que permite el registro y patente del modelo. Conclusión El modelo elaborado demostró tener capacidad para promover la accesibilidad comunicativa de pedido de asistencia prehospitalaria para personas con necesidades comunicativas especiales.

Abstract Objective To describe the process of developing and evaluating a mobile application prototype to enable people with complex communication needs to call pre-hospital emergency services. Methods This methodological study was conducted in three stages: determining the target population's functional requirements; developing and making available a prototype application for touchscreen mobile phones to request pre-hospital services; experts assessed the usability heuristics using a checklist, while the target population (people with complex communication needs) used the System Usability Scale. Descriptive statistics were performed, and the scores assigned to the application were analyzed. Results The application obtained high usability scores (mean=58.75) and 21 individuals from the target population reported an excellent user satisfaction index (mean=89.5), which allowed registering and applying for the prototype's patent. Conclusion The prototype showed the ability to enable individuals with complex communication needs to access and request pre-hospital emergency services.

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Embodied conversational agents (ECAs) are advanced human-like interfaces that engage users in natural face-to-face conversations and interactions. These traits position ECAs as innovative tools for delivering interventions for promoting health-related behavior adoption. This includes motivational interviewing (MI), a therapeutic approach that combines brief interventions with motivational techniques to encourage the adoption of healthier behaviors. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to identify the health issues addressed by ECAs delivering MI interventions, explore the key characteristics of these ECAs (eg, appearance, dialogue mechanism, emotional model), analyze the implementation of MI principles and techniques within ECAs, and examine the evaluation methods and primary outcomes of studies that use ECAs providing MI interventions. METHODS: We conducted a scoping review following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) methodology. Our systematic search covered the PubMed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital, and PsycINFO databases for papers published between January 2008 and December 2022. We included papers describing ECAs developed for delivering MI interventions targeting health-related behaviors and excluded articles that did not describe ECAs with human appearances and without the necessary evaluation or MI explanation. In a multistage process, 3 independent reviewers performed screening and data extraction, and the collected data were synthesized using a narrative approach. RESULTS: The initial search identified 404 articles, of which 3.5% (n=14) were included in the review. ECAs primarily focused on reducing alcohol use (n=5, 36%), took on female representations (n=9, 64%), and gave limited consideration to user ethnicity (n=9, 64%). Most of them used rules-driven dialogue mechanisms (n=13, 93%), include emotional behavior to convey empathy (n=8, 57%) but without an automatic recognition of user emotions (n=12, 86%). Regarding MI implementation, of 14 studies, 3 (21%) covered all MI principles, 4 (29%) included all processes, and none covered all techniques. Most studies (8/14, 57%) conducted acceptability, usability, and user experience assessments, whereas a smaller proportion (4/14, 29%) used randomized controlled trials to evaluate behavior changes. Overall, the studies reported positive results regarding acceptability, usability, and user experience and showed promising outcomes in changes in attitudes, beliefs, motivation, and behavior. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed significant advancements in the use of ECAs for delivering MI interventions aimed at promoting healthier behaviors over the past 15 years. However, this review emphasizes the need for a more in-depth exploration of ECA characteristics. In addition, there is a need for the enhanced integration of MI principles, processes, and techniques into ECAs. Although acceptability and usability have received considerable attention, there is a compelling argument for placing a stronger emphasis on assessing changes in attitudes, beliefs, motivation, and behavior. Consequently, inclusion of more randomized controlled trials is essential for comprehensive intervention evaluations.

Asunto(s)

RESUMEN

Resumen La investigación tuvo el objetivo de determinar la relación entre la procrastinación académica y la dependencia al dispositivo móvil en estudiantes universitarios de la carrera de Turismo de la Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Ecuador, durante el período académico abril-septiembre 2022. Esta tuvo un enfoque cuantitativo, diseño no experimental-transversal y de alcance correlacional. Los datos se obtuvieron a partir de 167 fichas psicoeducativas de los integrantes de la población, quienes habían completado los instrumentos: Escala de Procrastinación Académica y Test de Dependencia al Dispositivo Móvil. La mayoría de los participantes pertenecieron al sexo femenino (66,5%). La categoría alto sobresalió en cuanto a la postergación de actividades (31,1% en mujeres y 15% en hombres); mientras que, el nivel moderado (59,3%) los hizo en cuanto a la dependencia al dispositivo móvil (37,1% en mujeres y 20,4% en hombres). Existió una correlación directa con una intensidad de moderada a fuerte entre la postergación de actividades y la dependencia al dispositivo móvil (p<0,05; r=0,485). El nivel bajo predominó en la autorregulación académica en los géneros estudiados; mientras que, el alto sobresalió en lo relativo a la postergación de actividades y el moderado en la dependencia al dispositivo móvil. Los valores de coeficiente de Spearman permitieron establecer la presencia de correlación estadísticamente significativa.

Abstract This research aimed to determine the relationship between academic procrastination and dependence on mobile devices in university students of the Tourism major at the Higher Polytechnic School of Chimborazo (ESPOCH), Ecuador, during the academic period April-September 2022. This study had quantitative scope, non-experimental-cross-sectional design, and correlational scope. The data were obtained from 167 psychoeducational records of the population members who had completed the instruments: Academic Procrastination Scale and Mobile Device Dependence Test. The majority of participants were female (66.5%). The high category stood out in terms of postponing activities (31.1% in women and 15% in men), while the moderate level (59.3%) did in terms of dependence on the mobile device (37.1% in women and 20.4% in men). There was a direct correlation with a moderate to strong intensity between the postponement of activities and dependence on the mobile device (.<0.05; r=0.485). The low level predominated academic self-regulation in the genres studied; the high one stood out concerning the postponement of activities, and the moderate one in dependence on the mobile device. The Spearman coefficient values allowed us to establish the presence of a statistically significant correlation.

RESUMEN

Resumen El teléfono inteligente es una herramienta útil para la comunicación, búsqueda de información y socialización; sin embargo, su uso excesivo podría generar conductas adictivas, generando problemas psicológicos, académicos y laborales. Se realizó una investigación con el objetivo de validar la Escala Riesgo de Adicción al Móvil (RAM) en estudiantes universitarios de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Peruana Unión, durante el ciclo 2022 - II. El diseño del estudio fue no experimental, corte transversal e instrumental. Participaron 658 alumnos (50,8% hombres). El instrumento presentó una adecuada validez del contenido, estructura interna unidimensional (CFI = 0,99; RMSEA = 0,05 [IC del 90%: 0,04-0,07]; SRMR= 0,04) y adecuada confiabilidad establecidas mediante los coeficientes: omega = 0,89 [IC del 95%: 0,86-0,91] y H = 0,91. El instrumento presenta una adecuada confiabilidad y es recomendable para evaluar el riesgo de adicción al móvil mediante la inferencia e interpretación de sus puntuaciones en estudiantes universitarios de ciencias de la salud, siendo útil como diagnóstico durante el diseño de medidas preventivas con respecto a esa problemática y como fuente de datos acerca de los efectos en el rendimiento y compromiso académico..

Abstract A smartphone is a helpful tool for communication, information seeking, and socialization; However, its excessive use could generate addictive behaviors, generating psychological, academic, and work problems. An investigation was carried out to validate the Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS) in university students of the Faculty of Health Sciences of the Universidad Peruana Unión during the 2022 cycle - II. The study design was non-experimental, cross-sectional, and instrumental. Six hundred fifty-eight students participated (50.8% men). The instrument presented adequate content validity, unidimensional internal structure (CFI = 0.99; RMSEA = 0.05 [90% CI: 0.04-0.07]; SRMR = 0.04), and adequate reliability established through the coefficients: omega = 0.89 [95% CI: 0.86-0.91] and H = 0.91. The instrument had adequate reliability and was recommended for evaluating the risk of mobile addiction through the inference and interpretation of its scores in university students of health sciences, being useful as a diagnosis during the design of preventive measures concerning this problem and as a source of data about the effects on academic performance and engagement.

RESUMEN

Introducción: La pandemia por la COVID-19 trajo consigo cambios en el comportamiento humano y afecciones psíquicas que afectan la salud mental. Objetivo: Estimar la adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes en adolescentes mujeres tras la pandemia por la COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio transversal realizado en noviembre y diciembre del 2022, en una institución educativa pública de Ica, Perú. Participaron 581 adolescentes que respondieron a un cuestionario con variables generales y la Escala de Adicción a los Teléfonos Inteligentes. Se aplicó un análisis estadístico descriptivo y multivariado mediante modelos lineales generalizados de la familia Poisson para evaluar la asociación entre las variables. Resultados: De las participantes, el 21,7 por ciento reveló adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes y el 48,7 por ciento se encuentra en riesgo alto de dependencia. Los conflictos familiares en el hogar (razón de prevalencia ajustada - RPa= 1,41; intervalo de confianza -IC 95 por ciento: 1,00-1,99) y los sentimientos de vergüenza (RPa= 1,44; IC 95 por ciento: 1,01-2,03), se asociaron a mayor adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes. No obstante, el sentimiento de tristeza, ansiedad o depresión y el hecho de sentirse rechazado por la sociedad presentaron asociación, no ajustada. Conclusiones: La adición a los teléfonos inteligentes y el riesgo de padecer este trastorno es alto en las adolescentes; existen variables generales susceptibles de ser modificadas que podrían mermar dicha afección comportamental inducida o potenciada por la pandemia de la COVID-19(AU)

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it changes in human behavior and psychic conditions that affect mental health. Objective: Estimate smartphone addiction in female adolescents after COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Cross-sectional study, conducted during November to December 2022, in a public educational institution in Ica, Peru. A total of 581 adolescents participated and answered a questionnaire with general variables and the Smartphone Addiction Scale. A descriptive and multivariate statistical analysis was applied using Poisson family generalized linear models to evaluate the association between variables. Results: Of the participants, 21.7 percent revealed addiction to smartphones and 48.7 percent were at high risk of dependence on these devices. Family conflicts at home (adjusted prevalence ratio-RPa = 1.41; 95 percent confidence interval-CI: 1.00-1.99) and feelings of shame (RPa = 1.44; 95 percent CI: 1.01-2.03), were associated with higher smartphone addiction. However, feelings of sadness, anxiety or depression and feeling rejected by society showed an unadjusted association. Conclusions: Smartphone addiction and risk for this disorder is high in adolescent girls; there are general variables amenable to modification that could diminish such a behavioral condition induced or potentiated by the COVID-19 pandemic(AU)

Asunto(s)