Estudio del estrés, engagement y rendimiento académico en estudiantes universitarios de Ciencias de la Salud

En el estudio que hemos llevado a cabo se pretende conocer el estrés académico percibido por los estudiantes universitarios así como la implicación de éstos en sus estudios (engagement académico). De igual forma, se busca analizar la posible influencia de ambos aspectos en el rendimiento académico. Finalmente se estudiarán de forma comparada estos aspectos en las distintas modalidades de enseñanza-aprendizaje que coexisten en la actualidad (titulaciones en pilotaje de EEES, titulaciones sin pilotaje y titulaciones de Grado). La población objeto de estudio son los estudiantes universitarios de la Facultad de Enfermería, Fisioterapia, Podología y Terapia Ocupacional de la Universidad de Málaga en el curso 2009-2010. Los resultados muestran, entre otros aspectos, que los principales estresores académicos referidos son las Deficiencias metodológicas del profesorado, los Exámenes, la Sobrecarga del estudiante y las Intervenciones en público. Son los síntomas físicos los que tienen una mayor incidencia. Las puntuaciones medias indican unos niveles de estrés moderados. En relación al engagement académico, se han observado en las cuatro titulaciones unos valores muy altos principalmente en la dimensión de Dedicación. Los indicadores de resultado académico toman valores elevados en las cuatro titulaciones.Se ha observado una tendencia general de modulación/protección por parte del engagement en la percepción de los estresores académicos y más marcadamente en la aparición de síntomas propios del estrés. Los resultados de este trabajo apoyan la idea de que la percepción de las situaciones del contexto académico como estresante, así como los síntomas de estrés, ejercen muy poca influencia en los resultados académicos. Por el contrario, estos mismos hallazgos subrayan la asociación de carácter positivo entre los niveles de engagement y el rendimiento del alumno

Academic Engagement in Health Sciences students at the University of Málaga (Spain): four years follow up

Introduction. Student engagement in post-school education has been researched since the 1990s, have been considered as an important factor in determining student learning and personal development during college [1,2]. The concept of engagement in relation to the student university experience is generally acknowledged as a multidimensional phenomenon that may result from a variety of factors relating to the individual and the context in which they are learning [3]. Objectives. To know and compare the levels of engagement at university in Health Sciencies students (Nursing, Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Occupational Therapy) along the first, second and last year of their degree. Relevance. Educational institutions play an important role in encouraging student engagement. It is necessary to know how students are engaged with their studies at university. Participants. The sample consisted of 250 freshman students (28% of the total population) at the University of Málaga (Spain) who were followed-up from 2009 to 2012. Methodology. Descriptive longitudinal study. Students were asked to fill out an on-line questionnaire (UWES-S) in May 2010, 2011 and 2013. Mean and standard deviation were calculated for each engagement dimension (vigor, dedication and absorption). Anova test was used for mean comparisons. Results. Although it has been observed a slight decrease in the levels of engagement from the first year of degree, differences were no statistically significant. In general, it can be say that these students feel engaged at university along their degree. Mean scores for engagement dimensions range from 4.89 to 2.9 into a Likert scale of 6 points. 2009-10 2010-11 2012-13 Dimensions Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Vigor 3,13 1,02 2,90 1,04 3,00 1,09 Dedication 4,89 1,07 4,64 1,32 4,74 1,32 Absorption 3,15 1,28 2,93 1,23 3,15 1,32 Conclusions. In a general way, it can be said that the Health Sciencies students analyzed are engaged at university and show a high dedication to their degree. However, it is also important to highlight that engagement scores don´t rise in the last year as it would be expected taking in account that in this year students reach the most practical knowledge and start their profession in the society. Keywords: academic engagement, university, health sciences. References 1. Astin AW: What matters in college: four critical years revisited. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass; 1993. 2. Pascarella ET, Terenzini PT: How collage affects students. A third decade of research, Volume 2. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass; 2005. 3. Fredericks JA, Blumenfeld PC, Paris AH: School engagement: potential of the concept, state of the evidence. Rev Educ Res 2004, 74:59–109.Universidad de Málaga. Campus de Excelencia Internacional Andalucía Tech

Preliminary Study on the Effect of an Early Physical Therapy Intervention after Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: A Multicenter Non-Randomized Controlled Trial

Selective sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) represents a minimally invasive surgery in patients with breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to explore the possible effect of an early physiotherapy intervention for the recovery of the upper limb and the surgical scars after SLNB in comparison with usual care. A total of 40 patients were enrolled in either the control group (n = 20) or the experimental group (n = 20). The intervention group performed an early physiotherapy program based on functional exercises, scar manual therapy, and educational tips. The control group received usual care. Shoulder range of motion (ROM), grip strength, upper limb pain and disability (SPADI), scar recovery (POSAS), myofascial adhesions (MAP-BC), quality of life (EORTCQLA-BR-23) and the presence of axillary web syndrome (AWS) and lymphoedema were assessed at baseline and immediately after intervention. A follow-up period of 6 months was performed for lymphoedema surveillance. Between groups significant differences in favor of the intervention were found for ROM (r = 0.43), grip strength (r = 0.32), SPADI (d = 0.45), POSAS (d = 1.28), MAP-BC (d = 1.82) and EORTCQLQ-BR 23 general function subscale (d = 0.37) (p < 0.05 for all variables). Our results suggest that an early physical therapy program seems to be more effective than usual care in women after SLNB. However, results should be interpreted with caution and future randomized trial with a larger sample size is neededThis research was partially supported by ICPFA. Grant number 04722/19P/MA. The funder had no role in the design of the study and collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, and in writing the manuscript. Partial funding for open access charge: Universidad de Málag

Percutaneous versus Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation of the Posterior Tibial Nerve in Idiopathic Overactive Bladder Syndrome with Urinary Incontinence in Adults: A Systematic Review

Background: Percutaneous electrical stimulation and transcutaneous electrical stimulation (PTNS and TTNS) of the posterior tibial nerve are internationally recognized treatment methods that offer advantages in terms of treating patients with overactive bladder (OAB) who present with urinary incontinence (UI). This article aims to analyze the scientific evidence for the treatment of OAB with UI in adults using PTNS versus TTNS procedures in the posterior tibial nerve. Methods: A systematic review was conducted, between February and May 2021 in the Web of Science and Scopus databases, in accordance with the PRISMA recommendations. Results: The research identified 259 studies, 130 of which were selected and analyzed, with only 19 used according to the inclusion requirements established. The greatest effectiveness, in reducing UI and in other parameters of daily voiding and quality of life, was obtained by combining both techniques with other treatments, pharmacological treatments, or exercise. Conclusions: TTNS has advantages over PTNS as it is more comfortable for the patient even though there is equality of both therapies in the outcome variables. More research studies are necessary in order to obtain clear scientific evidenc

Effectiveness of vestibular training for balance and dizziness rehabilitation in people with multiple sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Postural instability and dizziness are commonly observed in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence for the use of vestibular rehabilitation, in comparison with other exercise interventions or no intervention, to treat balance impairments and dizziness in PwMS. An electronic search was conducted by two independent reviewers in the following databases: MEDLINE (Pubmed), Scopus, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Web of Science (WOS), Lilacs, CINHAL and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR). A quality assessment was performed using the PEDro scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. When possible, the data were pooled in a meta-analysis (95%CI). This systematic review followed the PRISMA guideline statement and was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42019134230). Seven studies were included, with a total of 321 participants analysed. Compared with no intervention, vestibular rehabilitation was more effective for balance development (SMD = 2.12; 95% CI = 0.49, 3.75; p = 0.01; I2 = 89%) and dizziness symptoms improvement (SMD = −17.43; 95% CI = −29.99, −4.87; p= 0.007; I2= 66%). Compared with other exercise interventions, improvements in favour of the experimental group were observed, but statistical significance for the differences between groups was not reached

Feasibility and safety of an immersive virtual reality-based vestibular rehabilitation programme in people with multiple sclerosis experiencing vestibular impairment: a protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial

Introduction: Vestibular system damage in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) may have a central and/or peripheral origin. Subsequent vestibular impairments may contribute to dizziness, balance disorders and fatigue in this population. Vestibular rehabilitation targeting vestibular impairments may improve these symptoms. Furthermore, as a successful tool in neurological rehabilitation, immersive virtual reality (VRi) could also be implemented within a vestibular rehabilitation intervention. Methods and analysis: This protocol describes a parallel-arm, pilot randomised controlled trial, with blinded assessments, in 30 patients with MS with vestibular impairment (Dizziness Handicap Inventory ≥16). The experimental group will receive a VRi vestibular rehabilitation intervention based on the conventional Cawthorne-Cooksey protocol; the control group will perform the conventional protocol. The duration of the intervention in both groups will be 7 weeks (20 sessions, 3 sessions/week). The primary outcomes are the feasibility and safety of the vestibular VRi intervention in patients with MS. Secondary outcome measures are dizziness symptoms, balance performance, fatigue and quality of life. Quantitative assessment will be carried out at baseline (T0), immediately after intervention (T1), and after a follow-up period of 3 and 6 months (T2 and T3). Additionally, in order to further examine the feasibility of the intervention, a qualitative assessment will be performed at T1. Ethics and dissemination: The study was approved by the Andalusian Review Board and Ethics Committee, Virgen Macarena-Virgen del Rocio Hospitals (ID 2148-N-19, 25 March 2020). Informed consent will be collected from participants who wish to participate in the research. The results of this research will be disseminated by publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals

The Usefulness of a Massive Open Online Course about Postural and Technological Adaptations to Enhance Academic Performance and Empathy in Health Sciences Undergraduates

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) provide accessible and engaging information for Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy students. The objective of this research was to determine the usefulness in improving academic performance and empathy in health sciences undergraduates, and to test a hypothetical model through structural equation analysis. This research was carried out using a descriptive and quasi-experimental design. It was conducted in a sample of 381 participants: 176 used a MOOC and 205 did not. The results of the Student’s t-test showed statistically significant differences in academic performance between the groups in favor of those students who had realized the MOOC. Participants carried out an evaluation rubric after taking MOOC. Statistically significant differences in empathy were also obtained between the pre (X = 62.06; SD = 4.41) and post (X = 73.77; SD = 9.93) tests. The hypothetical model tested via structural equation modeling was supported by the results. Motivation for the MOOC explained 50% of the variance. The MOOC (participation and realization) explained 58% of academic performance, 35% of cognitive empathy and 48% of affective empathy. The results suggest an association between higher realization and participation in a MOOC and higher levels of academic performance, and cognitive and affective empathy.University of Malaga (UMA) for the Call for Educational Innovation Projects (PIE19-148), to the Call 2019-2021Initiation Grant for Research from the UMA's Own Plan, in Modality A (Grade

Effects of Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Triathletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Triathlon is an aerobic sport, which is commonly measured by maximal aerobic consumption (VO2max). Objective: to analyze the changes produced in cardiorespiratory and physiological measurements during practice, which determine triathletes’ performance level. A systematic review and a meta-analysis based on PRISMA protocol and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020189076) was conducted. The research was performed using PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Embase, Dialnet, Web of Science (WOS) and MEDLINE databases during February and March 2020. Studies that measured cardiorespiratory variables in triathletes published in the last 10 years were included. Results: 713 articles were identified, with 25 studies selected for the systematic review and five articles for the meta-analysis. These articles concluded that the main cardiorespiratory variables that determine triathletes’ performance were modified depending on the triathlon segment performed and the athletes’ sex and age. The meta-analysis showed no conclusive results related to the effects of changes in VO2max in triathletes’ performance [SMD = −0.21; 95%CI: (−0.84 to 0.43)]. Conclusions: cardiorespiratory fitness, in terms of VO2max and ventilatory thresholds, is the strongest predictor of performance in triathlon. This response may be affected depending on the triathlon segment performed and the athlete’s age or sex, leading to both physiological and biomechanical alterations that affect competition performance.This research received partial funding by the University of Malaga and the Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy (University of Cadiz). Partial funding for open access charge: Universidad de Málaga

Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy student's motivation. A Comparative study in the University of Malaga, Spain

Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to know and compare motivational facts and vocational behaviour among students of physical therapy and occupational therapy. Other secondary objectives are: • To know the satisfaction these students report with their university studies • To analyze the level of academic decision about their professional future. • To know if these students have an effective academic behavior. Participants. Participants were 141 Spanish collegue students who volunteered for the study. They were students of second and third year of Physical therapy (69) and Occupational therapy (72) in the University of Malaga. Methods: Cross-sectional design. Paticipants completed in one setting the “Cuestionario de Biodatos Universitarios - CBU- The CBU is a 9 item scale that offers information about student academic motivation, academic decisions, satisfaction or future professional purpose. Each questionnaire response is assigned a value with a maximum possible total score of 26. Results: Regarding student satisfaction, 68.1% of physical therapy (PT) student are very satisfied with the career choices they made in thei day, like the 56.95% of students in occupational therapy (OT). Regarding the degree of academic decision on the professional expertise they would like to pursue in the future, 44,9% doe not have anything decided in PT, similar to the 36,1% found in OT. After completing his studies, 48,62% of OT students planning to do a Master or postgraduate course compared with the 81.1% referring this intention in PT. In relation to the exercise of the profession immediately obtained similar results in both degrees, 56.95% in OT and 66.2% in PT. Only 6.95% of repondents in OT and 14.49% in PT have not decided yet. Among the difficulties or problems for a decision by a specialty or area of works, 57.9% highlights the lack of information on the characteristics of that product in PT and 31.95% at OT, whereas only 2.9% and 5.56% refer to that no option would fully satisfied respectively. Comprehensively analyzed, and pre-vocational behaviour of respondents was fully efficient, so that in all cases there is an effective career development, slightly better in pupils PT. Conclusions: The descriptive analysis of a sample CBU draws us highly satisfied with their university studies, with an efficient vocational behaviour, who knows the need for specialization through graduate school, but lacks sufficient information in making their decisions.Universidad de Málaga. Campus de Excelencia Internacional Andalucía Tech

Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Myofascial Adhesions for Patients after Breast Cancer (MAP-BC) Evaluation Tool: Spanish Version

(1) Background: The Myofascial Adhesions for Patients after Breast Cancer (MAP-BC) evaluation tool is a quantitative measure for the evaluation of tissue adhesions in breast cancer patients. The aims of this study were to create a Spanish version of the MAP-BC and to test its convergent validity and responsiveness. (2) Methods: Translation and cross-cultural adaptation were performed in five phases according to international guidelines. For the analysis of the convergent validity and responsiveness, a sample of 77 patients after breast cancer surgery were analysed at two timepoints (T1: immediately after the stitches were taken out; T2: one month after surgery). The COSMIN (Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement Instru ments) guidelines and checklist were used to verify the whole adaptation and validation process. (3) Results: Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the original English version resulted in an easily understandable Spanish version of the tool. A moderate convergent validity (r = 0.438) with the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment (POSAS) at T1 and a strong correlation at T2 (r = 0.816) were observed. A moderate standardised response mean (0.45) and effect size (0.63) were also observed. (4) Conclusions: The MAP-BC Spanish version is a useful tool that could be incorporated into the evaluation of scars and surrounding tissues in breast cancer patients. It has shown a moderate convergent validity and responsiveness