Adequacy of prenatal care and associated factors in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the degree of adequacy of prenatal care (PNC) in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS) and in its 7 macro-regions considering the time of PNC initiation and the number of appointments attended. It also aims to verify the mode of delivery prevalence and the factors associated with PNC adequacy by mode of delivery. METHODS: Sub analysis from a cross-sectional study conducted among 13,432 childbearing women aged 15-49 years assisted in 66 maternity hospitals of the Unified Health System (SUS) and private associated facilities from September 2017 to October 2019. A standardized form was used to collect sociodemographic data, and information about PNC and delivery from the childbearing women's prenatal cards, hospital records, and medical reports. RESULTS: The PNC coverage was (98.4%), but only 57.5% of the participants had an adequate PNC defined as the one initiated until the 12th gestational week, with attendance of at least 6 appointments. The cesarean rate was 57.2%. Among women who performed vaginal delivery, multivariate analysis showed that for each 1-year increase in the age of the parturient, the chance of having an adequate PNC increased by 5%. White parturients with higher education and fewer deliveries residing in the macro-region of Valleys were more likely to have an adequate PNC when compared with non-white parturients, who were illiterate and/or had incomplete elementary school, with 3 or more deliveries and who resided in other macro-regions. During pregnancy, 96.0% of the women performed at least one anti-HIV test, 55.8% a rapid test for syphilis, and 75.0% a Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test (VDRL). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the almost universal PNC coverage in RS, the PNC offered by the SUS was adequate for just half of the population, therefore public health policies targeted at women receiving care in this setting shall be revisited.

A psychometric study of an executive function assessment instrument (TDI-FE).

BACKGROUND: This study aims to present and discuss the psychometric properties of executive functions, which were measured using the TDI-FE instrument. The analysis encompasses its internal structure, potential sensitivity to fatigue factors, relationships with external criteria, and diagnostic accuracy. METHODS: The study sample comprised 382 students from Brazil, aged 6-8 years. Child development variables were screened using the TDI-FE and gold standard tests (Cancellation Attention and Trail Making Tests). The proposed scale comprised four activities: a test with fruit images with three tasks, and one memory game. RESULTS: The one-factor model of EF of the TDI-FE failed to fit to the data. However, fit substantially improved once a latent fatigue factor was controlled in the model. The latent factor of EF assessed by the TDI-FE tasks was coherently associated with a series of external variables, including two popular collateral measures of EF. The diagnostic accuracy was reasonable, and a cut-off of 37 points produced 70% of sensitivity and 60% of specificity. CONCLUSION: Results indicated that the TDI-FE demonstrated sound psychometric properties and diagnostic accuracy, then consisting of an efficient alternative for the assessment of EFs in early childhood education. The study also proved the need to control for response biases such as fatigue in the latent variable models of EF. The TDI-FE is notable because of its low cost and easy application, and it might fulfill a need for instruments for individuals from different contexts at this stage of development in Brazil.

Adequacy of prenatal care and associated factors in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess the degree of adequacy of prenatal care (PNC) in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS) and in its 7 macro-regions considering the time of PNC initiation and the number of appointments attended. It also aims to verify the mode of delivery prevalence and the factors associated with PNC adequacy by mode of delivery. METHODS Sub analysis from a cross-sectional study conducted among 13,432 childbearing women aged 15-49 years assisted in 66 maternity hospitals of the Unified Health System (SUS) and private associated facilities from September 2017 to October 2019. A standardized form was used to collect sociodemographic data, and information about PNC and delivery from the childbearing women's prenatal cards, hospital records, and medical reports. RESULTS The PNC coverage was (98.4%), but only 57.5% of the participants had an adequate PNC defined as the one initiated until the 12th gestational week, with attendance of at least 6 appointments. The cesarean rate was 57.2%. Among women who performed vaginal delivery, multivariate analysis showed that for each 1-year increase in the age of the parturient, the chance of having an adequate PNC increased by 5%. White parturients with higher education and fewer deliveries residing in the macro-region of Valleys were more likely to have an adequate PNC when compared with non-white parturients, who were illiterate and/or had incomplete elementary school, with 3 or more deliveries and who resided in other macro-regions. During pregnancy, 96.0% of the women performed at least one anti-HIV test, 55.8% a rapid test for syphilis, and 75.0% a Venereal Disease Research Laboratory test (VDRL). CONCLUSIONS Despite the almost universal PNC coverage in RS, the PNC offered by the SUS was adequate for just half of the population, therefore public health policies targeted at women receiving care in this setting shall be revisited.

Construção e validação de Bateria Multidisciplinar de Triagem do Desenvolvimento Infantil (TDI) / Construction and validation of the Multidisciplinary Battery for Child Development Screening (TDI) / Construcción y validación de Instrumento Multidisciplinar para la Selección del Desarrollo Infantil (TDI)

O estudo objetivou apresentar a construção da Bateria Multidisciplinar de Triagem do Desenvolvimento Infantil (TDI) e suas evidências de validade de conteúdo. A elaboração do TDI seguiu as recomendações internacionais com cinco etapas: definição da fundamentação teórica, construção da versão preliminar do instrumento, análise dos itens por juízes especialistas, análise semântica pela população-alvo e estudo piloto. Para o embasamento da construção dos itens, realizou-se revisão de literatura sobre o desenvolvimento infantil na fase de escolarização inicial, considerando os construtos envolvidos na prontidão escolar, incluindo artigos, instrumentos existentes, livros e manuais. As áreas selecionadas foram linguagem, funções executivas e habilidades motoras. Na versão preliminar, 110 itens foram elaborados. Após a realização das três últimas etapas, a versão final totalizou 81 itens, destinados à avaliação de crianças entre 6 e 8 anos de idade. A TDI apresentou evidências de validade de conteúdo, sendo de relevância nas áreas da saúde e educação brasileira.(AU)

This study aimed to present the development of the Multidisciplinary Battery for Child Development Screening (TDI) and its content validity evidence. The TDI construction followed international recommendations, consisting of five stages: description of the theoretical foundation; development of the preliminary version of the instrument; analysis of the items by experts; semantic analysis of the items by the target population; and a pilot study. To support the construction of the items, a literature review was conducted regarding child development in the initial education stage, considering the constructs involved in school readiness. Articles, existing instruments, books and manuals were included. The selected areas were language, executive functions and motor skills. In the preliminary version, 110 items were developed. After completing the last three stages, the final version totaled 81 items, directed toward the assessment of children between 6 and 8 years of age. The TDI presented content validity evidence, being relevant in the Brazilian health and education areas.(AU)

El estudio tuvo como objetivo presentar la construcción de la Batería Multidisciplinar para la Selección del Desarrollo Infantil (TDI) y sus evidencias de validez de contenido. La elaboración siguió las recomendaciones internacionales con cinco etapas: fundamentación teórica; desarrollo de la versión preliminar; análisis de los ítems por expertos; análisis semántico por la población-objetivo; y estudio piloto. Para apoyar la construcción se realizó una revisión de la literatura sobre el desarrollo infantil en la fase inicial de escolarización, considerando los constructos implicados en la preparación escolar, incluyendo artículos, instrumentos existentes, libros y manuales. Las áreas seleccionadas fueron lenguaje, funciones ejecutivas y habilidades motoras. La versión preliminar tuve 110 items preparados. Después de las últimas tres etapas, la versión final totalizó 81 ítems, destinados a la evaluación de niños entre 6 y 8 años, La TDI presentó evidencia de validez de contenido, siendo relevante en las áreas de salud y educación brasileñas.(AU)

Knowledge about sexually transmitted infections among young men presenting to the Brazilian Army, 2016: A STROBE-compliant national survey-based cross-sectional observational study.

ABSTRACT: Global burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remains high and has a profound impact on health and lives of children, adolescents and adults worldwide. For over a decade, the Brazilian Department of Chronic Condition Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections and the Ministry of Defense have been conducting the Conscripts Survey aiming to assess the STI prevalence and obtain data on knowledge regarding STIs and risk factors among youth.A cross-sectional study was conducted among conscripts across Brazil aged 17 to 22 years from August to December 2016. It included a self-reported questionnaire containing 74 questions, 25 questions related to awareness and knowledge of STIs and their associated symptoms, routes of transmission, complications and risk factors.A total of 37,282 young men across Brazil were considered for the analysis. The majority resided in the Northeast and Southeast regions (38.9% and 30.0%, respectively), followed by the South (13.9%), North (9.7%), and Central-west (7.5%) regions. Of the conscripts, 97.2% have the knowledge they may be at risk if they do not use condoms during sex. Conscripts with a higher level of education have almost 2 times greater chance of having knowledge of having sex without a condom (OR 3.23 CI95% 2.82-3.70 P = .000) and sharing needles and syringes (OR 2.84 CI95% 2.62-3.07 P = .000) represents a risk. Those with higher education also have an almost 50% greater chance of having knowledge regarding STI transmission from mother to child (OR 1.54 CI95% 1.44-1.64 P = .000), and knowledge of no transmission by mosquito bite (OR 1.61 CI95%1.51-1.72 P = .000), by kissing (OR 1.45 CI95% 1.36-1.55 P = .000) or by using public toilets (OR 1.51 CI95% 1.41-1.61 P = .000). Television (71.8%) and internet (69.4%) are the preferred forms to obtain STIs information regardless of the level of education.Conscripts with higher level of education have greater knowledge regarding transmission of STIs. However, there are gaps regarding their knowledge about HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and the fact that other STIs can increase the chances of acquiring HIV.

Immunohistochemical assessment of symptomatic postmenopausal endometrial polyps in tamoxifen users and nonusers: a case control study.

BACKGROUND: Endometrial polyps are common in postmenopausal women, and the effect of tamoxifen use (a risk factor for endometrial polyps) on their pathogenesis is unclear. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the expression of hormone receptors and markers for proliferation/apoptosis (Ki-67 and Bcl-2) in endometrial polyps in postmenopausal users and nonusers of tamoxifen. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional analytical study in a tertiary-level academic hospital. METHODS: 46 women (14 tamoxifen users and 32 nonusers) with postmenopausal bleeding underwent hysteroscopic resection of endometrial polyps. Polyp samples were immunohistochemically assessed for detection of Ki-67, Bcl-2 and estrogen and progesterone receptors. RESULTS: Analysis on the glandular component of the polyps revealed progesterone receptor expression in the polyps of 96.9% of the nonusers of tamoxifen, and 92.3% of the tamoxifen users (P = 0.499). All polyps in nonusers and 92.3% of those in users were also positive for estrogen receptors (P = 0.295). Ki-67 was expressed in 75% of the polyps in the tamoxifen users and 82.8% of those in the nonusers. All endometrial polyps expressed Bcl-2. CONCLUSIONS: The immunohistochemical analysis on endometrial polyps demonstrated that, although tamoxifen is considered to be a risk factor for endometrial polyps, there were no significant differences in the expression of hormone receptors between users and nonusers of tamoxifen. There were no between-group differences in Ki-67 and Bcl-2 expression, and all patients displayed inhibition of apoptosis by Bcl-2, thus supporting the theory that polyps develop due to inhibition of apoptosis, and not through cell proliferation.

Immunohistochemical assessment of symptomatic postmenopausal endometrial polyps in tamoxifen users and nonusers: a case control study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Endometrial polyps are common in postmenopausal women, and the effect of tamoxifen use (a risk factor for endometrial polyps) on their pathogenesis is unclear. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the expression of hormone receptors and markers for proliferation/apoptosis (Ki-67 and Bcl-2) in endometrial polyps in postmenopausal users and nonusers of tamoxifen. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional analytical study in a tertiary-level academic hospital. METHODS: 46 women (14 tamoxifen users and 32 nonusers) with postmenopausal bleeding underwent hysteroscopic resection of endometrial polyps. Polyp samples were immunohistochemically assessed for detection of Ki-67, Bcl-2 and estrogen and progesterone receptors. RESULTS: Analysis on the glandular component of the polyps revealed progesterone receptor expression in the polyps of 96.9% of the nonusers of tamoxifen, and 92.3% of the tamoxifen users (P = 0.499). All polyps in nonusers and 92.3% of those in users were also positive for estrogen receptors (P = 0.295). Ki-67 was expressed in 75% of the polyps in the tamoxifen users and 82.8% of those in the nonusers. All endometrial polyps expressed Bcl-2. CONCLUSIONS: The immunohistochemical analysis on endometrial polyps demonstrated that, although tamoxifen is considered to be a risk factor for endometrial polyps, there were no significant differences in the expression of hormone receptors between users and nonusers of tamoxifen. There were no between-group differences in Ki-67 and Bcl-2 expression, and all patients displayed inhibition of apoptosis by Bcl-2, thus supporting the theory that polyps develop due to inhibition of apoptosis, and not through cell proliferation.

A portrait of risk behavior towards HIV infection among Brazilian Army conscripts by geographic regions, 2016.

INTRODUCTION: Knowledge about risky sexual behavior among young people has been widely acknowledged as a key tool to controlling the spread of HIV. This article aimed at presenting the risk behavior of Brazilian Army conscripts toward HIV infection according to the country's geographic regions. . METHOD: We collected data from 37,282 conscripts, aged 17 to 22, during enlistment in the Brazilian Army in 2016. The prevalence of HIV infection, both self-reported and measured through laboratory results, and risk behavior factors were estimated by region. RESULTS: 75% of the sample of conscripts reported to have already started sexual activity, and the average age of their sexual initiation was 15. Condom use varied according to the type of sexual relationship, being lower among steady partners and greater among less stable relationships. HIV prevalence assessed by laboratory tests was 0.12% across the country and the highest prevalence was observed in the North region (0.24%). Alcohol and illicit drug usage was higher in the South region. DISCUSSION: The study allowed the observation of risk behavior monitoring for HIV infection among young Brazilians. Lower condom usage among steady partners may be contributing to an increase in the number of HIV-infected individuals. CONCLUSION: Results suggest the need to intensify prevention campaigns to disseminate safe sex practices among young people, in addition to the expansion of testing offer to this population.

Hepatitis B and C prevalence and risk factors among young men presenting to the Brazilian Army: A STROBE-compliant national survey-based cross-sectional observational study.

Viral hepatitis is caused by different etiological agents with distinct epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory characteristics accounting for significant worldwide morbidity and mortality. Since 1996, the Brazilian Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Viral Hepatitis (DIAHV) in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense has been conducting periodic serosurveys of conscripts enlisted for the Brazilian army to assess STI prevalence and obtain data on knowledge and risk factors pertaining to STIs. This article aims to present the hepatitis B (hepatitis B surface antigen - HBsAg) and C (anti-HCV) seroprevalence estimates and risk factors as per the 8th edition of the Conscript Survey performed in 2016.This cross-sectional study was conducted among conscripts across Brazil aged 17 to 22 years from August to December 2016. It included a self-reported questionnaire and blood testing for syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis B and C.In total 38,247 conscripts were enrolled; after applying exclusion criteria, 37,282 conscripts were included. The estimated HBsAg and anti-HCV prevalence rates were 0.22% and 0.28%, respectively. Higher HBsAg and anti-HCV prevalence rates were observed in the North Region (0.49%) and in the Central-west Region (0.65%), respectively. Regarding hepatitis B vaccination, 23.5% (n = 8412) of the individuals reported being unvaccinated and 47.4% (n = 16,970) did not know if they had been vaccinated. Among the anti-HCV positive conscripts, 53% (n = 51, 0.56%, P = .049) reported that they had never had sexual intercourse. Regarding self-reported STI status, most of the positive anti-HCV (n = 100, 0.29%, P < .01) and positive HBsAg (n = 76, 0.22%, P = .205) conscripts reported not having a STI. From those who tested positive for HBsAg, 89% (n = 42, 0.28%, P = .005) reported not making consistent use of condoms with steady partners.Our data suggest a low prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections among Brazilian young men, and relatively low rates of self-reported HBV immunization. History of STIs, higher number of partners, inconsistent use of condoms, and lack of awareness of routes of transmission were significantly associated with HBV and HCV infections. To achieve the World Health Organization's goal of viral hepatitis elimination, access to hepatitis information, testing, and surveillance need to be improved.

A portrait of risk behavior towards HIV infection among Brazilian Army conscripts by geographic regions, 2016 / Retrato do comportamento de risco dos conscritos do Exército brasileiro à infecção pelo HIV por macrorregiões brasileiras, 2016

ABSTRACT Introduction: Knowledge about risky sexual behavior among young people has been widely acknowledged as a key tool to controlling the spread of HIV. This article aimed at presenting the risk behavior of Brazilian Army conscripts toward HIV infection according to the country's geographic regions. . Method: We collected data from 37,282 conscripts, aged 17 to 22, during enlistment in the Brazilian Army in 2016. The prevalence of HIV infection, both self-reported and measured through laboratory results, and risk behavior factors were estimated by region. Results: 75% of the sample of conscripts reported to have already started sexual activity, and the average age of their sexual initiation was 15. Condom use varied according to the type of sexual relationship, being lower among steady partners and greater among less stable relationships. HIV prevalence assessed by laboratory tests was 0.12% across the country and the highest prevalence was observed in the North region (0.24%). Alcohol and illicit drug usage was higher in the South region. Discussion: The study allowed the observation of risk behavior monitoring for HIV infection among young Brazilians. Lower condom usage among steady partners may be contributing to an increase in the number of HIV-infected individuals. Conclusion: Results suggest the need to intensify prevention campaigns to disseminate safe sex practices among young people, in addition to the expansion of testing offer to this population.

RESUMO Introdução: O conhecimento do comportamento sexual de risco entre jovens tem sido amplamente reconhecido como ferramenta-chave para controlar a propagação do HIV. Este artigo tem o objetivo de retratar o comportamento de risco dos conscritos do Exército brasileiro à infecção pelo HIV segundo as macrorregiões brasileiras. Métodos: Foram utilizados dados de 37.282 conscritos, entre 17 e 22 anos, durante apresentação ao Exército em 2016. Estimaram-se as prevalências de HIV autorreferida e medida por exame laboratorial, além de indicadores de comportamento de risco, por macrorregiões geográficas. Resultados: Dos conscritos que compuseram a amostra, 75% relatou já ter iniciado atividade sexual, e a média de idade de início foi de aproximadamente 15 anos. O uso do preservativo variou de acordo com o tipo de parceria sexual, sendo menor na relação com parceiros(as) fixos(as) e maior nas parcerias menos estáveis. A prevalência da infecção pelo HIV medida através do diagnóstico laboratorial foi de 0,12% no Brasil, sendo mais prevalente na região Norte (0,24%). O consumo de álcool e drogas ilícitas foi maior na região Sul. Discussão: O estudo permitiu observar o monitoramento do comportamento de risco à infecção pelo HIV entre os jovens brasileiros. O menor uso de preservativo quando a parceria sexual é considerada estável pode estar contribuindo para aumentar o número de indivíduos infectados pelo HIV. Conclusão: Os resultados sugerem a necessidade de campanhas de divulgação para os jovens sobre práticas de sexo seguro, além da ampliação da oferta de testagem nessa população.

Syphilis prevalence and risk factors among young men presenting to the Brazilian Army in 2016: Results from a national survey.

The Conscripts Survey has been conducted periodically by the Brazilian Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), AIDS, and Viral Hepatitis (DIAHV) in collaboration with the Brazilian Ministry of Defense for over 2 decades. It aims to assess the syphilis prevalence and obtain data on knowledge regarding STIs and their risk factors among conscripts enlisted for the Brazilian Army.This cross-sectional study was conducted among conscripts across Brazil aged 17 to 22 years from August to December 2016. It included a self-reported questionnaire and blood testing for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B and C.In total 38,247 conscripts were enrolled; after exclusion due to a lack of information, 37,282 (93.2%) conscripts were included. The estimated syphilis prevalence rates were: 1.63%, 1.09%, and 0.62% for screened, confirmed, and active syphilis, respectively. Among those with active syphilis, 81.1% reported not having syphilis infection in their lifetime. Higher confirmed syphilis prevalence rates were observed in the South region, followed by North and Southeast regions. Independent factors associated with confirmed syphilis infection were: self-reported STIs in one's lifetime (odds ratio [OR] = 7.24; P < .001), same-sex sexual relationships (OR = 3.43; P = .001), and having the 1st sexual intercourse encounter before 15 years of age (OR = 2.62; P = .04). The proportion of conscripts who reported having sex with other men (MSM) was 4.3%, and the estimated syphilis prevalence in this group was 5.23%, 4.61%, and 3.60% for screened, confirmed, and active syphilis, respectively. The sexual behaviors most frequently associated with confirmed syphilis were: sexual relationship with casual partners in the last year (P < .001), same-sex sexual relationships (P < .001), more than 10 partners (P = .006), and having sexual intercourse before 15 years of age (P = .003). Although not significant, only 25.4% of the conscripts who had a confirmed syphilis reported the use of condoms with steady partners, 32.4% with casual partner, and 24.3% with any partner.We found that syphilis is on the rise among the young Brazilian male population. The increase in its prevalence, particularly among MSM, highlights the need for urgent public health interventions, action plans, and implementation of risk reduction strategies aimed at this population.

HIV prevalence and sexual behavior among young male conscripts in the Brazilian army, 2016.

Since 1996, the Brazilian Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI), AIDS and Viral Hepatitis (Departamento de Vigilância, Prevenção e Controle das IST, do HIV, AIDS e Hepatites Virais, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde) in collaboration with the Brazilian Ministry of Defense has conducted periodic and anonymous probability sample surveys to determine the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence, the sexual and risk behaviors among conscripts of the Brazilian army. This study aimed to estimate the HIV seroprevalence of conscripts in Brazil by geographic region and to describe behavior in relation to the risk of HIV transmission by analyzing data from the Brazilian Conscripts Survey 8th edition performed in 2016.Conscripts were selected with a 2-stage sampling method stratified by geographical region. The study included a self-reported questionnaire and blood collection for HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis testing. Data from 37,282 conscripts between 17 and 22 years of age were analyzed. Of these conscripts, 73.7% stated that they were sexually active. The overall country-wide prevalence of HIV was 0.12%. The geographic prevalence rates were as follows: north (0.24%), northeast (0.15%), central-west (0.13%), southeast (0.07%), and south (0.10%). The proportion of conscripts who reported having sex with other men was 4.4%, and the estimated HIV prevalence in this group was 1.32%. Regarding prophylaxis use, 45.6% of the participants reported consistent condom use with casual partners within the last year, and 34.5% reported condom use with steady partners within the last year. The independent factors associated with HIV infection were: MSM status (odds ratio [OR] = 14.62; P = .000) and having more than 10 partners over their lifetime (OR = 3.32; P = .028).Our data suggest that the HIV prevalence among young men in Brazil remains stable except for the north region, and MSM continue to be associated with a high risk for HIV infection at a rate that is approximately 13-fold higher than the rate among men without a history of sex with another man. Our findings confirm the need to scale up combination HIV prevention for young men, including MSM, in Brazil.

Processo de construção e busca de evidências de validade de conteúdo da EQualis-OAS / The process of constructing and establishing content validity evidence for the EQualis-OAS / Proceso de construcción y búsqueda de evidencias de validez de contenido de la EQualis-OAS

É apresentado o processo de construção e busca de evidências de validade de conteúdo de uma escala para avaliar a qualidade dos objetos de aprendizagem da área da saúde, sob os preceitos da Psicometria Clássica. Considerou-se, além da fundamentação teórica coerente e análise de juízes, o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC) e a Razão de Validade de Conteúdo (RVC), práticas pouco comuns nos artigos de psicologia que relatam a avaliação de instrumentos psicológicos. Foi definido, como critério de exclusão de um item, apresentar IVC menor ou igual a 0,85 e RVC menor que 0,54. De um total de 84 itens, obteve-se a eliminação de 38. Esse resultado é considerado satisfatório como evidência para a validade de conteúdo. Contribui-se, assim, para a proposição de novos instrumentos voltados para o ensino na área da saúde, adotando-se uma abordagem contextualizada e sistêmica. (AU)

The process of constructing and establishing content validity evidence for a scale that assesses the quality of learning objects in the health area is presented, under the assumptions of the Classical Psychometrics. In addition to theoretical and semantic analysis by judges, items were evaluated by using the Content Validity Index (CVI) and Content Validity Ratio (RVC), which are not common in psychology studies describing the evaluation of psychological instruments. Item exclusion criterion was IVC less than or equal to .85, and RVC less than .54. Thirty-eight out of a total of 84 items were eliminated. Results support the instrument's content validity. The study offers a new tool and contributes to teaching in the health area, by adopting a contextualized and systemic approach. (AU)

Es presentado el proceso de construcción y búsqueda de evidencias de validez de contenido de una escala para evaluar la calidad de los objetos de aprendizaje del área de la salud, sobre los preceptos de la Psicometría Clásica. Se consideró, además de la fundamentación teórica coherente y análisis de jueces, el Índice de Validez de Contenido (IVC) y la Razón de Validez de Contenido (RVC), prácticas poco frecuentes en los artículos de psicología que describen la evaluación de instrumentos psicológicos. Fue definido como criterio de exclusión de un ítem, aquel que presentase IVC menor o igual a 0,85 y RVC menor que 0,54. De un total de 84 ítems, se obtuvo la eliminación de 38. Este resultado es considerado satisfactorio como evidencia para la validez de contenido. Se contribuye así para la proposición de nuevos instrumentos dirigidos para la enseñanza en el área de la salud adoptándose un enfoque contextualizado y sistémico. (AU)

Escala Breve de Compaixão Santa Clara: propriedades psicométricas para o contexto brasileiro / Santa Clara Brief Compassion Scale: psychometric properties for the Brazilian context / Escala Breve de Compaixão Santa Clara: propiedades psicométricas para el contexto brasileño

O presente estudo teve como objetivo buscar evidências de validade de conteúdo e de estrutura interna e avaliar a precisão da Escala Breve de Compaixão Santa Clara para o contexto brasileiro. Os itens foram adaptados por experts e, posteriormente, foram submetidos à avaliação de juízes e amostras da população-alvo em aplicações-piloto. Os resultados dessa etapa demonstraram a equivalência semântica e logística da versão adaptada. Para avaliação de consistência interna e da validade baseada em estrutura interna, o instrumento foi preenchido por 422 indivíduos e os dados foram submetidos à análise de alfa de Cronbach e análise fatorial exploratória, respectivamente. A escala apresentou índice adequado de consistência interna (α=0,84) e a análise fatorial resultou em uma solução unifatorial, explicando 62,48% da variância. Os resultados psicométricos da escala adaptada foram próximos dos obtidos na escala original, indicando a pertinência do uso do instrumento em âmbito nacional. (AU)

The present study aimed to find content validity and internal structure evidence, and to evaluate precision of the Santa Clara Brief Compassion Scale for the Brazilian context. The items were adapted by experts and, subsequently, were submitted for the evaluation of judges and samples with the target population in pilot applications. Results of this stage demonstrated the semantic and logistic equivalence of the adapted version. To evaluate internal consistency and validity based on internal structure, 422 individuals responded to the instrument and the data were submitted to Cronbach's Alpha Analysis and Exploratory Factor Analysis, respectively. The scale presented an adequate internal consistency index (α=0.84) and the factorial analysis resulted in a one-factor solution, accounting for 62.48% of the variance. The psychometric results of the adapted scale were close to those obtained by the original scale, indicating the pertinence of the use of the instrument at the national level. (AU)

El presente estudio tiene como objetivo buscar evidencias de validez de contenido y de estructura interna y, evaluar la precisión de la Escala Breve de Compasión Santa Clara para el contexto brasileño. Para el desarrollo de la investigación los ítems fueron adaptados por expertos y posteriormente fueron sometidos a la evaluación tanto de jueces, como, por una muestra de la población objetiva en aplicaciones piloto. Los resultados de esta etapa demostraron la equivalencia semántica y logística de la versión adaptada. Para evaluación de la consistencia interna y de la validez basada en la estructura interna, el instrumento se realizó a 422 individuos y los datos fueron sometidos al Análisis de alfa de Cronbach y Análisis Factorial Exploratorio. Al final, la escala presentó un índice adecuado de consistencia interna (α=0,84) y el análisis factorial resultó en una solución unifactorial, explicando 62,48% de la varianza. En conclusión, los resultados psicométricos de la escala adaptada se acercan a los obtenidos en la escala original, indicando la pertinencia de uso del instrumento a nivel nacional. (AU)

Group B Streptococcus detection in pregnant women via culture and PCR methods.

INTRODUCTION:: Group B Streptococcus (GBS), a source of neonatal infection, colonizes the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of pregnant women. Routine screening for maternal GBS in late pregnancy and consequent intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis have reduced the incidence of early-onset GBS neonatal infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of PCR, compared to culture (gold standard), in GBS colonization screening of pregnant women, and to establish the prevalence of GBS colonization among this population. METHODS:: Vaginal introitus and perianal samples were collected from 204 pregnant women, between the 35th and 37th weeks of pregnancy, at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit of the University of Caxias do Sul General Hospital between June 2008 and September 2009. All samples were cultured after enrichment in a selective medium and then assayed by culture and PCR methods. RESULTS:: The culture and PCR methods yielded detection rates of vaginal/perianal GBS colonization of 22.5% and 26%, respectively (sensitivity 100%; specificity 95.6%; positive and negative predictive values 86.8% and 100%, respectively). A higher prevalence of GBS colonization was detected in the combined vaginal and perianal samples by both culture and PCR assay analyses. CONCLUSIONS:: PCR is a faster and more efficient method for GBS screening, allowing for optimal identification of women who should receive intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent newborn infection.

Group B Streptococcus detection in pregnant women via culture and PCR methods

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Group B Streptococcus (GBS), a source of neonatal infection, colonizes the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of pregnant women. Routine screening for maternal GBS in late pregnancy and consequent intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis have reduced the incidence of early-onset GBS neonatal infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of PCR, compared to culture (gold standard), in GBS colonization screening of pregnant women, and to establish the prevalence of GBS colonization among this population. METHODS: Vaginal introitus and perianal samples were collected from 204 pregnant women, between the 35th and 37th weeks of pregnancy, at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit of the University of Caxias do Sul General Hospital between June 2008 and September 2009. All samples were cultured after enrichment in a selective medium and then assayed by culture and PCR methods. RESULTS: The culture and PCR methods yielded detection rates of vaginal/perianal GBS colonization of 22.5% and 26%, respectively (sensitivity 100%; specificity 95.6%; positive and negative predictive values 86.8% and 100%, respectively). A higher prevalence of GBS colonization was detected in the combined vaginal and perianal samples by both culture and PCR assay analyses. CONCLUSIONS: PCR is a faster and more efficient method for GBS screening, allowing for optimal identification of women who should receive intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent newborn infection.

Efficient Identification of HIV Serodiscordant Couples by Existing HIV Testing Programs in South Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the feasibility of identifying HIV negative at risk individuals in HIV serodiscordant couples, during voluntary HIV testing in South Brazil. METHODS: We surveyed HIV testers at 4 public testing sites in Rio Grande do Sul. We obtained information on risk behaviors and sexual partnerships. HIV testing and testing for recent infection were performed; HIV prevalence and risk behaviors were assessed among subjects who reported having a steady partner who was HIV positive (serodiscordant group) and compared with the general testing population. RESULTS: Among 3100 patients, 490 (15.8%) reported being in a steady relationship with an HIV positive partner. New HIV infections were diagnosed in 23% of the serodiscordant group (vs. 13% in the general population, p = 0.01); among newly positive subjects, recent HIV infections were more frequent (23/86, 26.7%) among testers with positive partners than among the general testing group (52/334; 15.6%; p = 0.016). Less than half of the serodiscordant testers reported having used a condom during the last sexual intercourse with their HIV-positive partner. Participants with inconsistent condom use with steady partner were four times more likely to test positive for HIV compared to those who reported always using condoms with the steady partner (OR: 4.2; 95% CI: 2.3 to 7.5). CONCLUSION: It is highly feasible to identify large numbers of HIV susceptible individuals who are in HIV serodiscordant relationships in South Brazil testing sites. Condom use within HIV serodiscordant couples is low in this setting, suggesting urgent need for biomedical prevention strategies to reduce HIV transmission.

Association between low bone mass and calcium and caffeine intake among perimenopausal women in Southern Brazil: cross-sectional study.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Osteoporosis is a skeletal abnormality characterized by reduction and alteration of bone microarchitecture that results in increased fragility and greater predisposition to fractures. Age and low bone mass are the main non-modifiable risk factors for osteoporotic fractures. The modifiable factors include sedentary lifestyle, inadequate calcium intake, excessive alcohol and/or caffeine consumption, smoking and low body weight. The aim here was to evaluate the association between low bone mass and calcium and caffeine intake among perimenopausal women in Southern Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted in Porto Alegre and Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. METHODS: Women (n = 155) of mean age 53.6 ± 9.5 years were evaluated through a cross-sectional study in Southern Brazil. Food frequency questionnaires, bone mass evaluation using calcaneal ultrasound and anthropometric assessment were used. RESULTS: The prevalence of overweight was 67.7%. In the bone mass screening, 30.3% had low bone mass and 4.5% had osteoporosis. The median calcium intake was 574.94 mg/day and the caffeine intake was 108.11 mg/day. No association was found between bone mass and anthropometric parameters, calcium intake or caffeine intake. It was found that 38.4% of the women had low bone mass. CONCLUSIONS: No association was found between calcium and caffeine intake and bone mass. High prevalence of low bone mass was observed.

Evaluation of five simple rapid HIV assays for potential use in the Brazilian national HIV testing algorithm.

Since 2005, the Department of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Viral Hepatitis under the Health Surveillance Secretariat in Brazil's Ministry of Health has approved a testing algorithm for using rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) tests in the country. Given the constant emergence of new rapid HIV tests in the market, it is necessary to maintain an evaluation program for them. Conscious of this need, this multicenter study was conducted to evaluate five commercially available rapid HIV tests used to detect anti-HIV antibodies in Brazil. The five commercial rapid tests under assessment were the VIKIA HIV-1/2 (bioMérieux, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), the Rapid Check HIV 1 & 2 (Center of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil), the HIV-1/2 3.0 Strip Test Bioeasy (S.D., Kyonggi-do, South Korea), the Labtest HIV (Labtest Diagnóstica, Lagoa Santa, Brazil) and the HIV-1/2 Rapid Test Bio-Manguinhos (Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). A total of 972 whole-blood samples were collected from HIV-infected patients, pregnant women and individuals seeking voluntary counselling and testing who were recruited from five centers in different regions of the country. Informed consent was obtained from the study participants. The results were compared with those obtained using the HIV algorithm used currently in Brazil, which includes two enzyme immunoassays and one Western blot test. The operational performance of each assay was also compared to the defined criteria. A total of 972 samples were tested using reference assays, and the results indicated 143 (14.7%) reactive samples and 829 (85.3%) nonreactive samples. Sensitivity values ranged from 99.3 to 100%, and specificity was 100% for all five rapid tests. All of the rapid tests performed well, were easy to perform and yielded high scores in the operational performance analysis. Three tests, however, fulfilled all of the prerequisites established previously by the Department of STDs, AIDS and Viral Hepatitis: the HIV-1/2 3.0 Strip Test Bioeasy, the Rapid Check HIV 1 & 2 and the VIKIA HIV-1/2. Three of the five tests evaluated (the HIV-1/2 3.0 Strip Test Bioeasy, the Rapid Check HIV 1 and 2 and the VIKIA HIV-1/2) performed as well as the reference assays and fulfilled the requirements for use in the Brazilian national algorithm.

Association between low bone mass and calcium and caffeine intake among perimenopausal women in Southern Brazil: cross-sectional study / Associacao entre baixa massa ossea e ingestao de calcio e cafeina em mulheres climatericas na regiao Sul do Brasil: estudo transversal

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Osteoporosis is a skeletal abnormality characterized by reduction and alteration of bone microarchitecture that results in increased fragility and greater predisposition to fractures. Age and low bone mass are the main non-modifiable risk factors for osteoporotic fractures. The modifiable factors include sedentary lifestyle, inadequate calcium intake, excessive alcohol and/or caffeine consumption, smoking and low body weight. The aim here was to evaluate the association between low bone mass and calcium and caffeine intake among perimenopausal women in Southern Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted in Porto Alegre and Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. METHODS: Women (n = 155) of mean age 53.6 ± 9.5 years were evaluated through a cross-sectional study in Southern Brazil. Food frequency questionnaires, bone mass evaluation using calcaneal ultrasound and anthropometric assessment were used. RESULTS: The prevalence of overweight was 67.7%. In the bone mass screening, 30.3% had low bone mass and 4.5% had osteoporosis. The median calcium intake was 574.94 mg/day and the caffeine intake was 108.11 mg/day. No association was found between bone mass and anthropometric parameters, calcium intake or caffeine intake. It was found that 38.4% of the women had low bone mass. CONCLUSIONS: No association was found between calcium and caffeine intake and bone mass. High prevalence of low bone mass was observed. .

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: A osteoporose é uma alteração esquelética caracterizada pela redução e pela alteração da microarquitetura óssea, que resultam em aumento da fragilidade e maior predisposição a fraturas. A idade e a baixa massa óssea são os principais fatores de risco não modificáveis para fraturas osteoporóticas. Os fatores modificáveis incluem sedentarismo, inadequada ingestão de cálcio, excessivo consumo de álcool e/ou cafeína, tabagismo e baixo peso corporal. O objetivo foi avaliar associação entre baixa massa óssea e ingestão de cálcio e cafeína por mulheres climatéricas no Sul do Brasil. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal realizado em Porto Alegre e Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. MÉTODOS: Mulheres (n = 155) com idade média de 53,6 ± 9,5 anos foram avaliadas em um estudo transversal na região Sul do Brasil. Foram utilizados questionários de frequência alimentar, avaliação da massa óssea por ultrassonometria de calcâneo e avaliação antropométrica. RESULTADOS: A preval ência de sobrepeso foi de 67,7%. No rastreamento de massa óssea, 30,3% apresentou baixa massa óssea e 4,5%, osteoporose. A ingestão mediana de cálcio foi de 574,94 mg/dia e de cafeína foi de 108,11 mg/dia. Não foi encontrada associação entre massa óssea e os parâmetros antropométricos, ingestão de cálcio ou de cafeína. Verificou-se que 38,4% das mulheres apresentaram perda de massa óssea. CONCLUSÕES: Não foi encontrada associação entre a ingestão de cálcio e cafeína com a massa óssea. Foi observada alta prevalência de baixa massa óssea. .