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The literature emphasizes that motivations for having a child are an important factor in mother-child adaptation post-adoption. Unfortunately, there are no instruments on motivations to have a child adapted to this population that can contribute to new evidence with quantitative research. Therefore, this paper aimed to adapt and investigate evidence of validity and reliability of the MCS scale (Brenning et al., 2015) within a sample of expectant adoptive mothers. The transcultural adaptation followed eight rigorous steps, including experts, focus groups, back-translation, and a pilot study conducted with biological mothers and soon-to-be adoptive mothers. For evidence of reliability, the scale was applied to a sample of 267 women waiting to adopt a child, with an average age of 38.7 years. The five-factor structure was confirmed, and the factors correlated as in a continuum, supporting the Self-Determination Theory. The MCS is valid and reliable for assessing the quality and intensity of the motivation to have a child in Brazil and in the context of adoptive motherhood, and it is suitable for future empirical research and practical application. Highlights: This study validated the MCS scale to the context of adoptive motherhood and, by doing so, provided an efficient tool for future empirical research. The MCS scale has good psychometric properties for use in Brazil in the context of soon-to-be adoptive mothers. The five-factor structure was confirmed, supporting the Self Determination Theory in this sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Management & Health / Revista Gestão & Saúde is the property of Revista Gestao e Saude and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

There are only a small number of reported intervention studies to improve health literacy among older populations. This paper reports on a study designed to investigate the feasibility and potential impact on health literacy and health practices of embedding an intervention programme to improve health literacy with older people through established primary health care units (PHCUs) in a disadvantaged urban community in Brazil. This investigation utilized a quasi-experimental design, with 42 participants recruited for the intervention group and comparison group. The Alfa-Health Program was offered by a nurse in a PHCU as part of the public universal health system over a period of 5 months, and was compared for its impact on a range of health literacy and self-reported health outcomes with routine health care available for older people. The intervention achieved relatively high levels of participation, and positive feedback from participants. Some improvements in vaccination rates, health literacy and reported health behaviours related to food choices and physical activity were observed. The intervention made good use of existing facilities; the content and methods were well received by the participants. However, there were some difficulties in recruitment and in retention of participants. The study has demonstrated the practical feasibility of delivering a comprehensive health education programme designed to improve health literacy in a PHCU in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although it has been show that early detection through mammograms is the most effective way to reduce breast cancer mortality, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide with survival rates being even lower in low- and middle-income countries as compared to high-income countries. Despite the availability of breast cancer screening programs in Brazil through the public health system, some women do not participate in these programs due to structural and/or inter/intrapersonal barriers. The Community Health Worker (CHW) model is a promising approach to reach these women who have not been reached through other efforts. This paper describes a participatory approach for capacity building of CHWs to promote breast cancer screening among low-income women 50 years of age and older in a southern city in Brazil as a combined effort between two academic institutions, the municipal health care system, and a local non-profit organization. The capacity building program consisted of an 8-hour training focusing on knowledge (e.g. breast cancer and screening) and skills (e.g. communication skills, basic principles of behavior change) to promote breast cancer screening among community members. Pre- and post-test questionnaires assessed changes in breast cancer knowledge and self-perceived knowledge and confidence (N =44). There was a significant increase in objective knowledge regarding breast cancer overall, risk factors, and behavior change strategies between pre- and post-test. There was also a significant increase in self-perceived knowledge and confidence, items related to knowledge about breast cancer, breast cancer early detection methods, and the ability to solve problems between pre- and post-test as well as a significant increase in their confidence to motivate women to get a mammogram. Overall, this study demonstrates the importance of welldeveloped capacity building programs to promote breast cancer screening among health care professionals, especially those with limited educational attainment, such as CHWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to develop a Digital Speech Assessment Instrument to evaluate the phonological and motor speech skills of Brazilian Portuguese–speaking children and adolescents through six tasks: (a) word naming, (b) word imitation, (c) pseudoword imitation, (d) word repetition, (e) pseudoword repetition, and (f) diadochokinesis. Method: The assessment instrument was developed and validated in a seven-step process, beginning with stimulus selection and ending with Pilot Study 1 (involving children and adolescents with typical speech development) and Pilot Study 2 (involving children and adolescents with speech sound disorders [SSDs]). Participants of the study included expert and nonexpert judges, children, and adolescents. Results: The Digital Speech Assessment Instrument contains 91 real words (61 in the naming task, 51 in the imitation task, and five in the repetition task), 26 pseudowords (26 in the imitation task and four in the repetition task), and six stimuli for diadochokinesis. The test contains stimuli in the form of images as well as audio and video recordings and allows for the analysis and storage of participant data in a virtual database. Conclusions: This study described the development of the Digital Speech Assessment Instrument, available in Brazilian Portuguese for the evaluation of several aspects of speech production (including word and pseudoword naming, imitation, and repetition and diadochokinesis). The test was developed for children aged 2;0 (years;months) to 17;11 and is administered fully online. In the future, the instrument can be used to provide a timely and accurate diagnosis of SSDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial investigating the effectiveness of a multimodal program (PAT-Back) compared to best practice advice on pain and disability in older adults with chronic low back pain (LBP) in primary care. Methods This feasibility study took place in Fortaleza, Northeast Brazil. The PAT-Back intervention consisted of a program including exercises, pain education, and motivational text messages for the in-home component. The control group received an evidence-based educational booklet. Feasibility outcomes were recruitment, adherence and retention rates, level of difficulty of the education and intervention content, perception of utility of mobile technology, and adverse events. The feasibility criteria were previously defined. Results A total of 248 people were screened, of which 46 older adults were eligible. The retention rate was high (100% in the PAT-Back group and 95% in the control group). The adherence rate to intervention was partially met (60%), whereas the adherence rate to unsupervised exercises was adequate (75%), and perception about safety to perform home exercise was partially acceptable (70%) in the PAT-Back group. In addition, 100% of older adults reported which text messages motivated them to perform the exercises in the PAT-Back group. Difficulty reported by participants in understanding and performing the intervention was small in both groups. Six participants reported transient adverse events in both groups. Conclusion Older adults accepted both interventions. Results demonstrated that the program is feasible, although minor changes targeting adherence and safety in home exercise are needed. Impact This feasibility study supports progression to a full trial investigating the effectiveness of a multimodal program (PAT-Back) on pain and disability in older adults with chronic LBP within a primary health care setting in low to middle income countries where such data from the older population are scarce and the burden of LBP is increasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to present the construction process of the Coping Inventory for Paralympic Athletes in Competition Situations (ICAP) and, as well, evidence of its content validity. The ICAP was developed to evaluate coping strategies in Paralympic athletes aged 18 years and older, possessing physical and/or visual impairment. The instrument is self-reported and includes the dimensions of Self-Reliance, Support-Seeking, Problem-Solving, Information-Seeking, Accommodation, Negotiation, Delegation, Social Isolation, Helplessness, Escape, Submission, and Opposition. Development of the instrument involved: (1) theoretical foundation based on the motivational theory of coping; (2) construction of the preliminary version of the instrument; (3) items analysis by expert judges; (4) semantic analysis of the items; and (5) pilot study. These procedures enabled the creation and refinement of the instrument. Some items were deleted and modified, reaching a final version of 91 items. This exhaustive process is considered to have ensured the content validity of the instrument. It is hoped that the ICAP can contribute in the future to the areas of sports psychology and Paralympic sport, both in the context of research and in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Brazilian long-term care (LTC) sector faced many challenges, which accentuated other common issues experienced by persons living with dementia (PLWD). The current pilot study evaluated staff perspectives regarding the care of institutionalized PLWD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using an online survey, we collected the perspectives of 24 workers from seven long-term care facilities (LTCFs) located in São Paulo State, Brazil, about the impact of COVID-19 in caring for PLWD. Results highlight concerns about challenges related to following precautionary measures and the negative effects of social distancing on PLWD. Aspects related to workforce and staffing and person-centered care approaches were recognized by staff as important to provide good care for PLWD. Future research is needed to consider how to support LTCFs in achieving a balance between the protection and well-being of PLWD. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(5), 45–52.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Texto & Contexto Enfermagem is the property of Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Programa de Pos-Graduacao de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Texto & Contexto Enfermagem is the property of Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Programa de Pos-Graduacao de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Texto & Contexto Enfermagem is the property of Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Programa de Pos-Graduacao de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Geographic Tongue (GT) is a benign inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology, which is characterized by the loss of epithelium due to the atrophy of filiform papillae. It usually occurs on the dorsum of the tongue and may extend to its lateral edges. It appears as an erythematous area surrounded by whitish and slightly elevated margins. In most cases, the condition is asymptomatic, although some individuals may report symptoms that include a burning sensation of the tongue. Objective: Assess whether there was a change in the clinical aspect of Geographic Tongue (GT) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Thirty-two participants were recruited from Dentistry School Universidade Federal Fluminense. Anamnesis and oral examination were performed to collect medical history. The participants were split into two groups: control group (no GT) n = 20 and test group (with GT) n = 12. In the second step, nine participants from a 12 (75%) of the test group were contacted by phone and answered a questionnaire about changes in the signs and symptoms of GT during the pandemic. The subjects were subdivided into two groups: GT with and without signs and symptoms exacerbation. Results: In the first phase of the research, no statistical difference between control and test groups was observed regarding clinical criteria such as age (p + 0.72), gender (p = 0.24), and systemic diseases (p = 0.58). In the second phase, there was a statistical difference between GT groups with or without symptom exacerbation in terms of age and stress as a factor of the oral symptoms (p = 0.3 and 0.2), respectively. Younger patients showed a worsening of the oral lesions related to GT (p = 0.3) and reported stress during the pandemic (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Younger patients were more susceptible to stress and presented more exacerbation of the oral lesions related to GT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aim to evaluate the feasibility, based on six feasibility study criteria, of using a one-week intervention of interpersonal theory of nursing for anxiety management in people who are taking part in a substance use disorders (ITASUD). The study adopted a feasibility mixed methods approach. The ITASUD was implemented with 39 male users of cocaine/crack as their principal drug with high levels of anxiety. The outcome (anxiety) was assessed by the Beck anxiety inventory. To address the feasibility criteria, data were gathered during appointments. Additionally, qualitative open-ended interviews were conducted in the final appointment. The assessment of the six feasibility criteria indicated the following: (1) demand: there was high demand among eligible participants; (2) acceptability: the ITASUD had better acceptability until the 3rd appointment; (3) implementation: the ITASUD's complexity and design was acceptable for participants; (4) practicality: 61.54% of participants used strategies from the ITASUD to manage their anxiety; (5) adaptation: there was no contamination and cointervention; and (6) safety: the ITASUD was safe. The exploratory analysis showed a relation between the level of anxiety and ITASUD (p < 0.0001). The ITASUD appears to be feasible. The participants reported positive experiences with the implementation of the ITASUD. The findings support the design of a powered larger trial to evaluate the effectiveness of the ITASUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of AIDS & Behavior is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Texto & Contexto Enfermagem is the property of Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Programa de Pos-Graduacao de Enfermagem and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: Child participation in type 1 diabetes (T1D) self‐care is needed in developing countries due to a lack of resources, especially during the school day. This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of a therapeutic play intervention (ITP) versus standard education (SE) on the ability of children with T1D to correctly perform insulin injection technique. Design and Methods: Children with T1D (7–12 years) were recruited at two diabetes clinics in Brazil and randomized to ITP or SE. Registered nurses received protocol training to deliver the intervention and perform data collection. ITP group received an education that included a story about a child with T1D who self‐injects insulin at school; SE group received routine clinic‐based education. Preintervention, children were video‐recorded giving insulin injections to a doll; postintervention, children were rerecorded giving the doll an injection. The research team reviewed the videos and assessed the injection technique using validated checklists. Parents reported children's self‐injection practices at baseline and 30 days. Results: Children (N = 20, 40% male) were 9.6 ± 1.3 years old and had T1D for 3.6 ± 2.3 years; HbA1c was 9.1 ± 2.0%; 20% of ITP and 50% of SE children used syringes (vs. pens) for injections. At baseline, 80% of both groups knew how to self‐inject; most were taught by a parent/relative. Injection technique scores were low in both groups; ITP group increased their scores significantly postintervention. Practices of self‐injection did not change in either group after 30 days. Practice Implications: The play‐based intervention appeared to improve the injection technique in the short‐term. Pilot findings support the development of a larger trial to evaluate the effectiveness of ITP on educating children on insulin injections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the association between dental pain and both child irritability and family distress. Subject and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 833 children aged 3 to 5 years from preschools in the city of Campina Grande, Brazil. The parents answered questionnaires addressing socio-demographic data and history of dental pain. Child irritability and family distress were evaluated using questions from the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). The children were submitted to clinical examinations by dentists who had undergone training and calibration exercises. All children were diagnosed with regard to dental caries, caries activity, traumatic dental injury, and malocclusion. Descriptive analysis was performed, followed by Poisson regression analysis (α = 5%). Results: The prevalence of child irritability due to oral problems was 16.1%. The prevalence of family distress was 19.1%. After the data analysis, only a history of dental pain remained associated in the final model for child irritability [prevalence ratio (PR) = 9.77; 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.22–15.33] and family distress due to oral problems (PR = 3.18; 95% CI: 2.34–4.31). Conclusion: Dental pain can make a child irritable and cause family distress. Socio-economic factors do not exert an influence on the emergence of these feelings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Critically ill patients are susceptible to the development of dry eye. Few studies have been conducted on how to best prevent and treat this condition. Objective To compare the effectiveness of 2 nursing interventions in preventing dry eye in adult intensive care unit patients: liquid artificial tears (Lacribell; Latinofarma) and artificial tears gel (Vidisic Gel; Bausch and Lomb). Methods In this randomized controlled trial, 140 participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatment groups: a liquid artificial tears group (n = 70) and an artificial tears gel group (n = 70). The study inclusion criteria were as follows: admission to the intensive care unit, age of 18 years or older, no diagnosis of dry eye at admission, receipt of mechanical ventilation, blink rate of less than 5 times per minute, and a score of 7 or less on the Glasgow Coma Scale. On 5 consecutive days, a single researcher who was unaware of the treatment assignment assessed the participants' eyes using the fluorescein eye stain test and the Schirmer test for dry eye. Results Dry eye developed in 21% of participants who received liquid artificial tears versus 9% of participants who received artificial tears gel (P =.04). Conclusions In this study, artificial tears gel was superior to liquid artificial tears in preventing the development of dry eye. These results may help nurses deliver evidence-based eye care aimed at reducing the risk of dry eye in critically ill patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the sensitivity and responsiveness to change for the Brazilian version of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ8–10) after dental caries treatment.Subject and methods: Thirty children aged 8 to 10 years old with untreated dental caries were randomly selected from public schools. They responded to the CPQ8–10 before and 1 month after finishing treatment for dental caries. Sensitivity was assessed by determining distribution changes using paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Responsiveness to change was evaluated by effect size (ES) and standardized response mean (SRM). Minimally important differences (MIDs) were also evaluated.Results: Mean/median pre-treatment values for the total CPQ8–10 score and subscales were significantly higher than the post-treatment values (p < 0.05). ES was large (effect size ≥ 0.8) for the total CPQ8–10 score and oral symptoms (OS), functional limitations (FL) and emotional wellbeing (EW) subscales and moderate (effect size 0.3–0.7) for the social wellbeing (SW) subscale. SRM values were moderate (0.3–0.7) for the total CPQ8–10 score and FL, EW and SW subscales and high (≥ 0.8) for the OS subscale. MID values for the total CPQ8–10 score and all subscales were lower than the mean score change.Conclusion: The Brazilian version of the CPQ8–10 is sensitive and responsive enough to detect changes brought about by dental caries treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gathering clinical evidence data on patients’ palliative care needs is paramount to identify changes in outcomes over time and maintaining on-going quality improvement. Implementation of patient-centred outcome measures has been widely recommended. The routine use of these instruments in daily practice is challenging and not widespread. Aim: To implement a patient-centred outcome measure in daily practice and fulfil one quality indicator: improve pain during the 72 h after admission, in at least 75% of patients. Design: An observational prospective study. The Palliative care Outcome Scale was used at admission (T0), third day (T1) and weekly. Setting/participants: Hospital palliative care unit with 17 individual rooms. All patients admitted to the unit were included in the study. Results: Preliminary results (N = 84) revealed inconsistent and missing data (14%). Symptoms were sub-optimally controlled by T1. Processes changed, and only a team member could apply Palliative care Outcome Scale. Doctors were encouraged to grasp the meaning of Palliative care Outcome Scale results for each patient. The post-pilot included 317 patients. No missing data occurred. There was an improvement in most items between T0 and T1: ‘pain’ and ‘other symptoms’ presented statistical significant differences (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Implementing a patient-centred outcome measure in a hospital palliative care service is feasible and improves quality of care. Controlling high pain at T0 improved (>80%) by T1. Results became more consistent and symptom control was improved overall. Patients are evaluated based on holistic domains by an interdisciplinary team and we have added a much needed measure to help guide improvement of the quality of care provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to assess oral health literacy (OHL) in pregnant women and its association with social determinants and knowledge regarding eating habits and oral hygiene in infants. This cross-sectional study assessed 175 pregnant women in a hospital in southern Brazil. Socioeconomic and demographic data were obtained using a questionnaire, and OHL was determined by the Brazilian Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Dentistry (BREALD-30). Eating habits and oral hygiene knowledge were assessed by statements on a 3-point Likert scale. The data were analyzed using Spearman correlations and the Mann-Whitney U test (α = 0.05). The mean (SD) age was 26.2 (6.17) years. Most of the participants had up to 8 years of education (60.0 %) and belonged to socioeconomic class 'C' or lower (56.0 %). The mean (SD) score on the BREALD-30 was 22.4 (4.66). A positive correlation was found between BREALD-30 scores and knowledge (r = 0.370, p < 0.001), income (r = 0.374, p < 0.001), and the age at which infants first consumed sugar in their diets (r = 0.370, p < 0.001). A negative correlation was found between BREALD-30 scores and domicile agglomeration (r = −0.237, p = 0.020). BREALD-30 scores were higher among pregnant women who had more than 8 years of education ( p < 0.001), who belonged to higher socioeconomic classes ( p < 0.001), and who were employed ( p = 0.025). A significant correlation was found between OHL and knowledge. Lower social determinants were associated with lower OHL. Oral health literacy should be considered in health education practices to facilitate adherence to health recommendations in pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study regarding the technical skills acquisition among General Surgery (GS) of residents in Brazil. It mentions the risk of receiving inadequate training due to low number of operations performed by General Surgery (GS) in Brazil. It also mentions that current formatting of regular GS residency programs in Brazil are insufficient to train experts in general surgery.

Background There is a need for investigations into the impact of oral problems on OHRQoL with study designs that offer greater strength of evidence. Aim To evaluate the impact of dental caries and traumatic dental injury ( TDI) on the OHRQoL of Brazilian preschool children. Design A population-based, matched, case-control study was conducted involving 415 children aged 3-5 years enrolled at public and private preschools. The case group (impact on OHRQoL) and control group (no impact on OHRQoL) were matched for age, sex, and monthly household income at a 1 : 4 ratio (83 cases and 332 controls). Impact on OHRQoL was assessed using the B- ECOHIS. Dental caries and TDI were determined through clinical oral examinations. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and conditional logistic regression analysis ( P ≤ 0.05; 95% CI). Results The most frequent responses on the B- ECOHIS were 'felt pain' (79.7%) and 'difficulty in eating' (35.0%). The following variables were significantly associated with impact on OHRQoL: caries severity ( OR = 12.58; 95% CI: 5.31-29.79) and TDI ( OR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.23-3.62). Conclusions Caries severity and TDI impacted the OHRQoL of preschool children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Oral diseases can negatively influence the quality of life causing harm in the development of routine activities, child development and their well-being. Aim To investigate the impact of dental caries, malocclusion and developmental defects of enamel ( DDE) on the oral health-related quality of life of preschool children and their parents. Design A cross-sectional study was carried out with 646 children aged 2-6 years in Diamantina, Brazil. Calibrated dental examiners performed the oral examinations. Parents answered the Brazilian version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale ( B- ECOHIS) and a questionnaire on socio-economic indicators. Statistical analyses involved the chi-square test and Poisson regression. Results Malocclusion and DDE did not cause a negative impact on the children's quality of life. Children with dental caries ( PR: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.56-2.35) and those aged 5 ( PR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.13-2.02) and 6 years ( PR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.02-2.23) were more likely to have a negative quality of life impact on the total B- ECOHIS. Conclusions Dental caries was associated with a negative impact on the quality of life of children. Malocclusion and DDE did not cause a negative impact on the children's quality of life. Older children had higher frequency of negative impact on OHRQo L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective The evidence of effectiveness of metronidazole ( Mtz) as an adjunct therapy to periodontal procedure in the treatment of patients with chronic periodontitis is not conclusive. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of Mtz (delivered locally as a gel or systemically as a tablet) as an adjunctive therapy with full mouth periodontal debridement (1 h of ultrasonic calculus/plaque removal) in smokers with chronic periodontitis. Material and Methods This pilot study involved 30 smokers with at least six teeth with a clinical attachment loss of ≥ 5 mm and probing pocket depth ( PPD) of ≥ 5 mm. They were randomly assigned into one of three groups ( n = 10): (i) 3 g daily of placebo gel applied topically (using a dental tray with the gel overnight) + periodontal debridement; (ii) 3 g daily of a 15% Mtz benzoate gel applied topically (using a dental tray with the gel overnight) + periodontal debridement; and (iii) a daily single dose of 750 mg Mtz (Flagyl®) + periodontal debridement. Clinical parameters (visible plaque index, gingival bleeding index [ GBI], relative attachment level and PPD) and quantitative analysis (by real-time polymerase chain reaction) of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia were assessed at baseline and at 1, 3 and 6 mo after periodontal debridement. Results There was no statistically significant difference in the average GBI and visible plaque index values at baseline between the groups ( p ≥ 0.05). There was no significant difference between groups in all parameters evaluated ( p ≥ 0.05). Significant reductions in GBI at 3 and 6 mo were observed in all groups ( p < 0.05). Significant reductions in both PPD and relative attachment level at 1, 3 and 6 mo were observed in all groups ( p < 0.05). Significant reductions in bacterial levels at 7 and 30 d were observed in all groups ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Adjunctive use of Mtz (gel or tablet) to periodontal debridement had similar clinical and microbiological improvement compared to treatment with placebo + periodontal debridement in smokers with chronic periodontitis up to 6 mo post-treatment. Further studies are necessary to confirm the clinical relevance of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited English proficient (LEP) individuals face disparities in accessing substance abuse treatment, but little is known on how to reach this population. This study aimed to test online recruitment methods for tobacco and alcohol screening among LEP Portuguese speakers. The study was advertised in Portuguese using Facebook, Google, online newsletters and E-mail. Participants clicked ads to consent and access a screening for tobacco and alcohol dependence. Ads yielded 690 screening responses in 90 days. Respondents had a mean age of 42.7 (SD 12), with a higher proportion of women than men, 95 % born in Brazil with high levels of LEP and low levels of acculturation. Facebook ads yielded 41.4 % of responses, and were the lowest cost recruitment channel ($8.9, $31.10 and $20.40 per respondent, hazardous drinker and smoker, respectively). Online recruitment of LEP populations is feasible. Future studies should test similar strategies in other LEP groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale, aims and objectives Assessing public health interventions is crucial for the development of public policies. Currently, there is no instrument to assess the inputs, activities and short-term outcomes of the smoking cessation programme in the Brazilian public health system. This study reports the development of a questionnaire for that purpose and assesses its suitability. Methods A multidimensional self-administered questionnaire was constructed. Questions were compiled from three Brazilian governmental acts that define the standards and requirements for smoking cessation services. A panel of experts familiar with tobacco control programmes reviewed the instrument. A pre-test was conducted to assess its suitability, with 18 health professionals working in eight different multidisciplinary teams, which treat smokers in two different Brazilian cities. Descriptive statistics were computed. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences ( SPSS 21; IBM, São Paulo, Brazil). This study was approved by the Committee on Ethics and Research of the Brazilian National Cancer Institute. Results A self-administered multidimensional questionnaire comprising 30 questions was developed in Portuguese. The instrument had a high level of acceptance, and was considered clear and covering all parameters necessary to assess the treatment for smoking cessation by 100% of the pre-test participants. The mean time spent to complete the questionnaire varied between 15 and 30 minutes. Conclusion An understandable and easy-to-use questionnaire was developed with suitable content and it was well accepted by health professionals. Pre-testing provided a substantial enhancement of the questionnaire, minimizing difficulties in understanding the questions and perfecting the response options. This instrument will contribute to the process of assessing smoking cessation services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to recognize the body parts blindfolded is called body schema. Chronic pain disrupts cognitive function and could lead to an altered body schema. Commonly competitive athletes have chronic pain, but still train and compete. The goal of this study was to assess the body schema of competitive athletes with chronic pain. Pain was measured with the McGill Pain Questionnaire. To assess the body schema, the Image Marking Procedure was used to assess the capacity of the participants to project their bodies in space. Neuropsychological performance was assessed with the Grooved Pegboard Test. There was no difference in body schema between groups; neuropsychological performance indicated better scores in the athlete group. This study showed that despite chronic pain, the athlete group presented unaltered body schema and better neuropsychological performance, perhaps explained by self-selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We took advantage of a large population study in order to measure child behavior, as captured by the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) as a function of headache status in the children and their mothers. Of the target sample, consents and analyzable data were obtained from 1,856 families (85.4 %). Headache diagnoses were defined according to the second edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders, and behavioral and emotional symptoms were assessed by the validated Brazilian version of the CBCL. We calculated the relative risk of abnormalities in the CBCL domains as a function of headache status in the children, after adjusting by a series of main effect models. Children with migraine were more likely to present abnormal scores in several of the CBCL scales, relative to children without migraine, and maternal migraine status contributed little to the model. However, when the mother had daily headaches, both children with and without migraine had similar CBCL scores. In multivariate analyses, migraine status in the children predicted CBCL scores ( p < 0.01). Headache status and headache frequency in the mother did not predict CBCL scores in children with migraine but predicted in children without migraine ( p < 0.01). The burden of migraine to the family is complex. Children with migraine are more likely to have behavioral and emotional symptoms than children without migraine. Children without migraine may be affected, in turn, by frequent headaches experienced by their mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2012; 22: 286-291 Background. In dentistry, clinical practice is directed towards attitudes that promote oral health and the paediatricians occupy a privileged position in this process. Aim. To assess the knowledge and attitudes of paediatricians in relation to the oral health of their patients. Design. A cross-sectional study was carried out at the Institute of Integrative Medicine Professor Fernando Figueira, Recife, Brazil. A total of 182 paediatricians participated by filling out a questionnaire. Results. A total of 63.9% believed the first visit to the dentist should occur before the child completes 1 year of life. Moreover, 67.8% considered their knowledge on oral health to be insufficient. Approximately 78% of the paediatricians diagnosed caries through an analysis of cavities. Only 29.9% always recommended fluoride dentifrice. The term 'fluorosis' was unknown by 48.3% of the respondents. Concerning pacifiers, 32.6% did not allow it and 66.9% did not either recommend it or restrict it. A total of 83.4% classified the oral health content in their medical education as either nonexistent or deficient; this figure remained high (72.4%) in relation to residency. Conclusions. It is important to develop oral health information programmes to paediatricians. Information on oral health should be included in medical curricula and residency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effects of electroacupuncture on stress-related symptoms.sleep disorders, anxiety, depression and burnout.in medical students, and provide data to inform a power analysis to determinate numbers for future trials. Methods: Twenty-five students were randomly assigned to an electroacupuncture (n=12) group or control group (n=13) that did not receive treatment. Electroacupuncture was applied at a continuous frequency 2 Hz for 20 min once a week for 8 weeks at sites on the extremities, face, ear and scalp. The outcomes of the students treated with electroacupuncture were compared with those of the control group at the endpoint, controlling the influence of baseline scores. The instruments used were self-administered questionnaires that comprised the validated Portuguese version of the mini-sleep questionnaire (MSQ), the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), the Beck depression inventory (BDI), the Beck anxiety inventory, the Maslach burnout inventory-student survey (MBI-SS), and World Health Organization quality of life assessment -- abbreviated version (WHOQOL-bref). Results: The medical students treated with electroacupuncture showed a significant decrease compared with the control group for MSQ scores (p=0.04) and PSQI (p=0.006). After treatment, 75% students in the electroacupuncture group presented a good sleep quality, compared with 23.1% of the students in the control group. No significant difference on daytime sleepiness was shown by the ESS. The electroacupuncture group showed significant improvement on depressive symptoms (BDI), the emotional exhaustion and cynicism dimensions of burnout (MBI-SS) and physical health (WHOQOL-bref). Conclusions: Electroacupuncture was associated with a significant reduction of stress-related symptoms, but because of the study design the authors cannot say what proportion of the reduction was due to needle stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazilian immigration to Massachusetts and other states in the US grew significantly in the last two decades. There is a lack of data about the working conditions and health and safety hazards faced by Brazilian immigrant workers. We surveyed over 500 workers in Eastern Massachusetts through a community-based participatory research project to explore occupational and immigration factors that may represent a risk to the health of Brazilian immigrant workers, who mostly work in the construction, housecleaning, and food services segments of the state labor force. Our pilot study suggests that Brazilian immigrant workers are exposed to chemical, ergonomic, physical, and psychosocial job hazards and have experienced a variety of health symptoms that may be associated with these work environment exposures. Since most Brazilian workers have not received proper training to recognize the hazards, there is an urgent need for the implementation of culturally adequate training programs and enforcement of safety and health regulations to prevent occupational injuries and fatalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]