Background and Objectives: Exposure-based interventions (EBIs) are the first-line treatment for anxiety disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder. Although common, the association between EBIs and benzodiazepines is controversial. Therefore, we systematically reviewed the literature to evaluate if benzodiazepines could undermine the efficacy of EBIs in treating these disorders. Methods: We conducted a systematic review aiming for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in ISI Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, and PsycINFO databases. We scrutinized the reference list of selected papers and other systematic reviews. Finally, we evaluated the methodological quality and the scientific evidence of the studies. Results: We screened 1,529 studies and included 12 RCTs in this review (all showing some concerns or high risk of bias). Benzodiazepines did not impact the efficacy of EBIs in nine studies at posttreatment, improved efficacy in two, and reduced it in one. In the follow-up, benzodiazepines (after its discontinuation) did not impact the efficacy in six studies and reduced it in five. The scientific level of evidence achieved was B for both phases. Conclusions: Until now there is no definitive evidence that benzodiazepines could hinder the EBIs' efficacy for treating posttraumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorders.

Objective Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly prevalent and disabling disorder. Even when treated with the first-line intervention, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), 45% of the patients continue suffering from this disorder. Therefore, knowing the factors that could foresee who will respond to CBT would be of great value to the treatment of these patients. Thus, we have systematically reviewed the literature to identify the variables that could predict response to CBT in patients suffering from PTSD. Methods Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we searched the electronic databases ISI Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and PTSDpubs until November 2021. Two authors have independently conducted study selection and data extraction. Studies that examined possible predictors of response to therapy on a sample of adults (18-65 years), both genders, with and without comorbidities were considered eligible. The characteristics of the studies were synthesized in a table. The risk of bias was assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias quality assessment tool. Results Twenty-eight studies comprising 15 variables were selected. Among those, eight showed a low risk of bias, 19 showed some concerns, and one showed a high potential risk of bias. The therapeutic relationship was the only variable considered to be a predictor of a good response to therapy. All other variables showed conflicting results. Conclusions The most promising variable, although scientifically weak, is the therapeutic relationship. Additional randomized clinical trials should be conducted to clarify the role of this variable as a predictor of response to CBT in patients with PTSD.

design de superfície, estampa, identidade de marca, comunicação Várias marcas de design autoral encontraram nas estampas exclusivas um caminho para construção de sua identidade. Adotando a estamparia como assinatura e como elemento tátil de significação e posicionamento, elas reúnem um universo simbólico em volta de si e parecem ampliar os canais de comunicação que estabelecem com o público. Este artigo se debruça sobre a dimensão visual do design de superfície com o intuito de relacionar as escolhas criativas desse campo com aspectos de identidade de marca trazidos pelo branding. Nesse sentido, foram postos em confronto dois canais de comunicação de uma mesma marca: o seu discurso nas redes sociais e os aspectos plásticos, semânticos e simbólicos presentes em suas estampas. Para viabilizar uma análise visual da estampa, a metodologia de Joly (2007) foi adaptada. surface design, pattern, branding, communication Some brands have been using exclusive patterns as a way to build their authorial identities. Using patterns as a signature, as a meaningful element for positioning, they put together a whole symbolic universe around them. This way, these brands seems to expand their communication channels with the public. Therefore, this article lays on the visual dimension of the surface design with the intent to connect the creative choices of this area with branding concepts and strategies. To accomplish that, a comparison was drawn between two channels of the same brand: its speech on the social networks and the meaningful aspects of its patterns. To endorse the pattern's visual analysis, Joly(2007)'s methodology was adapted.