1.  Title: Does contraceptive treatment in wildlife result in side-effects? A review of quantitative and anecdotal evidence. Author: Gray M; Cameron E Source: Reproduction. 2009 Aug 5; Abstract: The efficacy of contraceptive treatments has been extensively tested, and several formulations are effective at reducing fertility in a range of species. However, these formulations should minimally impact the behaviour of individuals and populations before a contraceptive is used for population manipulation, but these effects have received less attention. Potential side effects have been identified theoretically and we reviewed published studies that have investigated side effects on behaviour and physiology of individuals or population-level effects, which provided mixed results. Physiological side effects were most prevalent. Most studies reported a lack of secondary effects, but were usually based on qualitative data or anecdotes. A meta-analysis on quantitative studies of side effects showed that secondary effects consistently occur across all categories and all contraceptive types. This contrasts with the qualitative studies, suggesting that anecdotal reports are insufficient to investigate secondary impacts of contraceptive treatment. We conclude that more research is needed to address fundamental questions about secondary effects of contraceptive treatment and experiments are fundamental to conclusions. In addition, researchers are missing a vital opportunity to use contraceptives as an experimental tool to test the influence of reproduction, sex and fertility on the behavior of wildlife species. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | LITERATURE REVIEW | ANIMALS | WILDLIFE | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS, SIDE EFFECTS | CONTRACEPTION, IMMUNOLOGICAL | PHYSIOLOGY | BEHAVIOR | ECOLOGY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Natural Resources | Environment | Contraceptive Agents | Contraception | Family Planning | Biology Document Number: 342416 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: HIV / AIDS and hope(lessness). Author: Barnett T Source: Global Public Health. 2008 Jul;3(3):233-248. Abstract: Public policy debates, about HIV and prevention policy, have tended to occupy positions at the extremes of the two camps of rational choice, theorists and structuralists. This paper argues that the concept of hope may offer a way through this policy and paradigmatic log-jam. Hope is an individually measurable concept, which serves to link the ecological concept of risk environment with that of individual choice. It may be extended into broader understandings of the social epidemiology of infectious diseases. Use of an operationalised concept of hope also offers a possible way forward for rapid community diagnosis and participation in policy development, because it is immediately and intuitively accessible at three often separated levels: the individual actor, the researcher and those acting in the policy arena. (author's) Language: English Keywords: THEORETICAL STUDIES | EVALUATION | POLICYMAKERS | HIV PREVENTION | HEALTH POLICY | ATTITUDES | ABSTINENCE, BE FAITHFUL, CONDOM USE | ECOLOGY | RISK ASSESSMENT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | SOCIOLOGY | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | HIV TESTING | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Sex Behavior | Environment | Public Health | Health | Social Sciences | Science | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine Document Number: 327756 |
| 3. Title: Undernutrition among the tribal children in India: tribes of Coastal, Himalayan and Desert ecology. Author: Kshatriya GK; Ghosh A Source: Anthropologischer Anzeiger; Bericht Uber Die Biologisch - Anthropologische Literatur. 2008 Sep;66(3):355-63. Abstract: The purpose of the present cross-sectional investigation was to assess the nutritional condition in children of three tribal communities namely Dhodia, Kinnaura and Bhil, which belong to Coastal, Himalayan and Desert ecology, respectively, in India. A total of 989 tribal children in the age group 0-1 years through 5+ years (below 6 years) was examined. There were 306 Dhodia children (164 boys and 142 girls), 327 Kinnaura children (177 boys and 150 girls) and 356 Bhil children (168 boys and 188 girls) out of 989 subjects. Crown-heel length was measured using infantometer with the child lying supine, height with Martin's anthropometer and body weight using standard weighing machine. Body mass index (BMI) was subsequently computed. 'Z' score was undertaken to obtain comprehensive pictures of undernutrition in terms of wasting, stunting and underweight in these communities. The chi2-test test was also undertaken to compare nutritional indicators by the sexes. It was observed that maximum wasting (85.3%), stunting (86.6%) and underweight (93.3%) was recorded in Kinnaura girls, who belong to Himalayan ecology. The results revealed also that so far as wasting and stunting was concerned, the situation was worst for desert dwelling Bhil, where only 7.3% wasted and 5.6% stunted pre-school children fall in between -1 SD to < or = median as compared to 11.7% wasted and 18.3% stunted pre-school children in Dhodia and 11.3% wasted and 15.3% stunted pre-school children in Kinnaura, who fall in the same category (-1 SD to < or = median). It was important to note that the prevalence of undernutrition in terms of wasting, stunting and underweight was similar in both the sexes (chi2(2) = 1.745, p > 0.05). The findings of the present study revealed the widespread prevalence of undernutrition among the children of Dhodia, Kinnaura and Bhil tribal communities and highlight a need for an integrated approach towards improving the child health as well as the nutritional status in these areas. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | TRIBES | CHILD NUTRITION | ANTHROPOMETRY | MALNUTRITION | NUTRITION INDEXES | ECOLOGY | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition | Health | Measurement | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Environment Document Number: 329098 |
| 4. Title: Land use change and population growth in the Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea between 1975 and 2000. Author: Ningal T; Hartemink AE; Bregt AK Source: Journal of Environmental Management. 2008 Apr;87(1):117-124. Abstract: The relation between human population growth and land use change is much debated. Here we present a case study from Papua New Guinea where the population has increased from 2.3 million in 1975 to 5.2 million in 2000. Since 85% of the population relies on subsistence agriculture, population growth affects agricultural land use. We assessed land use change in the Morobe province (33,933km/2) using topographic maps of 1975 and Landsat TM images of 1990 and 2000. Between 1975 and 2000, agricultural land use increased by 58% and population grew by 99%. Most new agricultural land was taken from primary forest and the forest area decreased from 9.8 ha person/-1 in 1975 to 4.4 ha person/-1 in 2000. Total population change and total land use change were strongly correlated. Most of the agricultural land use change occurred on Inceptisols in areas with high rainfall (greater than 2500mm year/-1) on moderate to very steep slopes (10-56%). Agricultural land use changes in logged-over areas were in the vicinity of populated places (villages), and in close proximity to road access. There was considerable variation between the districts but districts with higher population growth also had larger increases in agricultural areas. It is concluded that in the absence of improved farming systems the current trend of increased agriculture with rapid population growth is likely to continue. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PAPUA NEW GUINEA | ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICTS | RESEARCH REPORT | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | POPULATION | POPULATION GROWTH | LAND AND RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT | AGRICULTURE | FORESTS | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS | AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT | ECOLOGY | ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION | Developing Countries | Oceania | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Rural Development | Economic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Natural Resources | Environment | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 324752 |
5.  Title: [Old indicators for new problems: the relationship between sanitation and health] Velhos indicadores para novos problemas: a relacao entre saneamento e saude. Author: Andreazzi MA; Barcellos C; Hacon S Source: Revista Panamericana de Salud Pública / Pan American Journal of Public Health. 2007 Sep;22(3):211-217. Abstract: Objective. To review the literature published from 1995-2004 on the relationship between sanitation and health and to identify the main variables analyzed and the diseases or injuries used as markers of effect or environmental health. Method. A search of Medline, SciELO, and LILACS on "sanitation" and "health" and "indicator" and "water" produced 103 articles, 17 of which were considered relevant for the analysis. We identified the study design and the sanitation and health variables analyzed in each of the 17 studies. Results. The most common study design was ecological and was employed in seven of the 17 studies. In most (10 studies), the health variable was diarrhea and sanitation variable was water quality. Fifteen studies reported a positive association between the health and sanitation variables. Conclusions. There are still many gaps in our understanding of sanitation and its role, especially in large urban centers that are dependent on water and sewerage systems and often lack alternative water sources. Ecological studies based on secondary data and specific surveys have been shown to be a good option for analyses correlating sanitation and health. Language: Portuguese Keywords: LITERATURE REVIEW | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | EVALUATION INDEXES | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | POPULATION | SANITATION | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION | WATER SUPPLY | ECOLOGY | ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION | PUBLIC HEALTH | DIARRHEA | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Health | Environment | Natural Resources | Diseases Document Number: 324581 |
| 6. Title: Demography of the tribal groups of Rajasthan: 1. Population structure. Author: Bhasin MK; Nag S Source: Anthropologist. 2007 Jan;9(1):1-37. Abstract: This paper presents the population composition and details of the economic, socio-cultural, physical environmental attributes of the households of the major Scheduled Tribes of Rajasthan, namely, Sahariya, Mina, Bhil, Kathodi, Damor and Garasia belonging to five districts, namely, Baran, Sawai Madhopur, Udaipur, Dungarpur and Sirohi in Rajasthan. All the measures of population composition indicate the demographic backwardness of the Scheduled Tribes, in general. Individually speaking, however, the position of Minas, a land owning economically well-off Scheduled Tribe, appears relatively better. The paper also includes some comparisons of the findings with the estimates of the 1991 census. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | CENSUS | TRIBES | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | POPULATION DYNAMICS | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | ECOLOGY | BIOLOGY | POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Statistics | Cultural Background | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Factors | Environment Document Number: 320530 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Spatial epidemiology of human schistosomiasis in Africa: risk models, transmission dynamics and control. Author: Brooker S Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2007 Jan;101(1):1-8. Abstract: This paper reviews recent studies on the spatial epidemiology of human schistosomiasis in Africa. The integrated use of geographical information systems, remote sensing and geostatistics has provided new insights into the ecology and epidemiology of schistosomiasis at a variety of spatial scales. Because large-scale patterns of transmission are influenced by climatic conditions, an increasing number of studies have used remotely sensed environmental data to predict spatial distributions, most recently using Bayesian methods of inference. Such data-driven approaches allow for a more rational implementation of intervention strategies across the continent. It is suggested that improved incorporation of transmission dynamics into spatial models and assessment of uncertainties inherent in data and modelling approaches represent important future research directions. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | AFRICA, NORTH | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | TARGET POPULATION | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | EPIDEMIOLOGY | SCHISTOSOMIASIS | ECOLOGY | INTERVENTIONS | INFECTION TRANSMISSION | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Program Design | Programs | Organization and Administration | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Public Health | Health | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Environment | Infections Document Number: 309568 |
| 8. Title: Health problems of elderly population in Assam and their correlates. Author: Nath DC; Deka AK; Leonetti DL Source: Demography India. 2007 Jan-Jun;36(1):99-120. Abstract: With the increase of elderly population, concern with their health is also increasing. Most demographers interested in the study of elderly population think that health is an appropriate segment of demographic study and surely there are some interrelation between health of older people and demographic changes (Seigal, 1980). The assessment of physical health plays a prominent role in all the phases of medical care, and planning. Good health facility, not only checks the pre-mature ageing but also keep individual in fit and active position that provide them strength to face the vicissitudes of old age (Nath and Deka, 2005). When number of aged are in good health and also economically productive, the aged with problem will be narrowed down to a few (Gurumurthy, 1998). Also Kinsella and Philip (2005) remarked that a successful life is absolutely dependent on healthy ageing (ability to remain physically and mentally fit). This paper aims to study the health status of Indian elderly in the following two ways. Firstly, on the basis of data, descriptive statistics of physical health conditions have been presented and applying the logistic regression model depicting the reported health status and its relations with a few physical problems has been analyzed. Secondly, this study identifies a few socio-demographic and ecological factors, which play an active role in elderly person's health in Assam with an attempt to analyze the degree of influence of selected correlates. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION INDEXES | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | DEMOGRAPHIC SURVEYS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | OLDER ADULTS | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | PREVALENCE | DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS | ECOLOGY | EYESIGHT | RESPIRATORY INSUFFICIENCY | PAIN | SKELETAL EFFECTS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Research Methodology | Population Dynamics | Population | Data Analysis | Adults | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Health | Measurement | Environment | Physiology | Biology | Pulmonary Effects | Signs and Symptoms | Diseases Document Number: 324146 |
| 9. Title: Ecology of increasing diseases: Population growth and environmental degradation. Author: Pimentel D; Cooperstein S; Randell H; Filiberto D; Sorrentino S Source: Human Ecology. 2007 Dec;35(6):653-668. Abstract: The World Health Organization (WHO) and other organizations report that the prevalence of human diseases during the past decade is rapidly increasing. Population growth and the pollution of water, air, and soil are contributing to the increasing number of human diseases worldwide. Currently an estimated 40% of world deaths are due to environmental degradation. The ecology of increasing diseases has complex factors of environmental degradation, population growth, and the current malnutrition of about 3.7 billion people in the world. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CHINA | UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | POPULATION GROWTH | POPULATION PRESSURE | ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION | ECOLOGY | DISEASES | MALNUTRITION | ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION | WATER QUALITY | TOXICITY | SOIL DEGRADATION | DRUG RESISTANCE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Carrying Capacity | Natural Resources | Environment | Nutrition Disorders | Water | Physiology | Biology | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 322436 |
| 10. Title: Recent and historic population trends in Bering Sea and Aleutian Island fishing communities: hubs and spokes, booms and busts. Author: Poole A; Sepez J Source: [Unpublished] 2007. Presented at the Population Association of America 2007 Annual Meeting, New York, New York, March 29-31, 2007. 22 p. Abstract: This report examines demographic change in Bering Sea and Aleutian Island (BSAI) fishing communities since 1920. We undertook this research in an attempt to begin introducing human population dynamics as an indicator for regional ecosystem analyses. As ocean temperatures rise in response to global climate change, ecosystems at the higher latitudes are expected to see the most dramatic effects. Since all of the communities in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands are highly resource dependent, we expect to see effects on local populations. By examining past population trends in relation to ecosystem factors, we are laying the groundwork for tying population to ecosystem in a manner that can be used to predict the demographic effects of global climate change in the region. We focus here on human inhabitants of the Bering Sea coast, using total population by community and by Census area as the primary indicator, with some analysis of other population characteristics such as ethnicity. This approach is concordant with research on arctic communities that uses crude population growth or loss as a general measure to determine community viability, as this indicator is easy to understand, locally meaningful, and points to the capacity of people in these places to "dwell and prosper for some period, finding sources of income and meaningful lives". (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: ALASKA | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | CENSUS METHODS | COMMUNITY | POPULATION | FISHING | POPULATION DYNAMICS | ISLANDS | ECOLOGY | CLIMATE | DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS | POPULATION GROWTH | United States of America | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Census | Population Statistics | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Occupations | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Environment Document Number: 317826 |
| 11. Title: The fight against extreme poverty: an intersectoral challenge. Author: UNESCO Source: SHS Views. 2006;(14):8-12. Abstract: Poverty is not an inevitability. In its effort to fight poverty, UNESCO has mobilized all programme Sectors to work towards the first of the Millennium Development Goals as defined by the United Nations: the eradication of extreme poverty. While the Organization's Member States have yet to decide how this cross-cutting programme should continue, SHS Views takes stock of the programme's first five years. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | LOW INCOME POPULATION | POVERTY | UN | GOALS | MALNUTRITION | MIGRATION POLICY | SEXUAL TRAFFICKING | EMPLOYMENT | SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT | ECOLOGY | TRAVEL AND TOURISM | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | CULTURE | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Planning | Organization and Administration | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Crime | Social Problems | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Development | Environment | Behavior | Programs Document Number: 312181 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: Phlebotomus (Paraphlebotomus) alexandri: a probable vector of Leishmania infantum in Iran. Author: Azizi K; Rassi Y; Javadian E; Motazedian MH; Rafizadeh S Source: Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology. 2006;100(1):63-68. Abstract: The incidence of human visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania infantum, which is endemic in several parts of Iran, has recently increased in the Nourabad-Mamassani district of Fars province, in the south of the country. Between 2003 and 2005, 12,688 sandflies were caught in this focus, using CDC miniature light traps, sticky traps and aspirators, in an attempt to identify the main vector of L. infantum. When 120 of the parous, female Phlebotomus (Paraphlebotomus) alexandri caught were individually checked for Leishmania infection, in an assay based on PCR and kinetoplast minicircle primers (LINR4 and LIN17), five (4.2%) of the flies were found to be infected with L. infantum. Thirty-nine (32.5%) of the 120 blood-fed Ph. alexandri checked in an ELISA were found positive for human blood. Since Ph. alexandri was the third-most common species caught (representing over 17% of the total catch), was clearly anthropophilic, and was not infrequently infected with L. infantum, it is probably an important vector in the Nourabad-Mamassani focus. Although other sandfly species have been found naturally infected with promastigotes in Iran, Ph. alexandri is the first that has been proven to harbour L. infantum in the country. (author's) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | RESEARCH REPORT | ANIMALS | LEISHMANIASIS | PARASITIC DISEASES | TRANSMISSION | PARASITES | ECOLOGY | EPIDEMIOLOGY | Developing Countries | Middle East | Natural Resources | Environment | Diseases | Infections | Biology | Public Health | Health Document Number: 296867 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: Fertility control in wildlife: humans as a model. Author: Barfield JP; Nieschlag E; Cooper TG Source: Contraception. 2006;73:6-22. Abstract: In a time of accelerated extinction rates and biodiversity loss, it may seem illogical to be concerned with methods limiting the reproduction of wild populations; however, there is an urgent need to inhibit the proliferation of a wide variety of species. The range of animals for which fertility control is desired makes the development of a single method impossible. The various reproductive strategies used by individual species, the desired outcome of contraceptive programs (reversible or irreversible; male or female directed) and our ignorance of the reproductive biology of many endangered species necessitate thorough species-specific investigations. As fertility control in humans is a reality and research into methods of fertility control is more advanced, humans serve as a model for developing contraceptive approaches for wild species. Population control by traditional methods (indirect or direct intervention by culling, poisoning, translocation, etc.) is increasingly unacceptable to the public, making human studies even more valuable for finding solutions to overabundant wild populations. This review compares and contrasts the range of contraceptive methods used in both wildlife and humans. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RECOMMENDATIONS | LITERATURE REVIEW | THEORETICAL MODELS | ANIMALS | WILDLIFE | ECOLOGY | POPULATION CONTROL | FERTILITY | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS | Research Methodology | Natural Resources | Environment | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraception | Family Planning Document Number: 293354 |
| 14. Title: Violence against women: theoretical reflections. Author: Casique LC; Furegato AR Source: Revista Latino-Americana de Enfermagem. 2006 Nov-Dec;14(6):950-956. Abstract: Violence appears in different forms and circumstances and involves distinct kinds of violent acts against children, women, elderly and other defenseless persons. This serious problem, which degrades women's integrity, is denoted by terms like domestic violence, gender violence and violence against women. Gender violence can appear as physical, psychological, sexual, economic violence, as well as violence at work. Violence against women committed by their intimate partners can be analyzed through the Ecological Model, which explains the close relation between individuals and their environment. Factors influencing people's behavior towards this violence should be analyzed with a view to establishing help programs. (author's) Spanish Abstract: La violencia se manifiesta de diferentes formas, en distintas circunstancias y con diversos tipos de actos dirigidos a niños, mujeres, ancianos y otras personas indefensas. Violencia domestica, violencia de genero y violencia contra mujeres son términos utilizados para denominar este grave problema que degrada la integridad de la mujer. La violencia de género puede manifestarse a través de violencia física, violencia psicológica, violencia sexual, violencia económica y violencia en el trabajo. La violencia sufrida por la mujer por parte de su compañero íntimo puede ser analizada a través del Modelo Ecológico que explica la estrecha relación entre el individuo y su entorno. Se concluyo que es importante analizar los factores que influyen en el comportamiento de las personas frente a la violencia para establecer programas de ayuda. (del autor) Language: English Keywords: LATIN AMERICA | THEORETICAL STUDIES | THEORETICAL MODELS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SEXUAL PARTNERS | VIOLENCE | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | GENDER RELATIONS | ECOLOGY | MENTAL HEALTH | Developing Countries | Americas | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Gender Issues | Environment | Health Document Number: 314383 |
| 15. Title: Exploring the links between conservation and health. Author: Goodall J Source: Washington, D.C., Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Environmental Change and Security Program, 2006 Apr. 7 p. (Focus on Population, Environment, and Security No. 11) Also available in French. Abstract: Hooo-he-hoo-he-hoo-he-hoo-he-hooo-he-HOOOO-he-HOOOOO-he-HOOO-he-hoo. I like to start with this chimpanzee call-which I've taken literally all over the world, from cathedrals and temples, to the United Nations and the European Parliament, from rural village communities to Ivy League universities-because so often we forget that we are part of the animal kingdom. Looking back over the 45 years of my chimpanzee study in Tanzania, I find it most fascinating to see how the line between human beings and the rest of the animal kingdom, which was once thought so sharp, has become increasingly blurred. Chimpanzees have been wonderful ambassadors from the animal kingdom because they are clearly so like us-and we like them-starting with the striking biological fact that we share about 99 percent of the structure of our DNA with chimpanzees. You could get a blood transfusion from a chimpanzee if you matched the blood type. How sad, then, to find that these chimpanzee beings are, as we speak, vanishing rapidly from Africa along with gorillas, bonobos, and many other amazing animals of the African forests. What is causing this? Ever-growing human populations and their increasing demands on the natural habitat: people need more land to grow their crops, graze their cattle, or build their houses, so wildlife is being pushed back. In many places, animals have become locally or totally extinct. When you cut down a forest with endemic species, many of them are gone before we even know what they are, or what disease they might cure, or what part they play in the whole interconnected network of life. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION | WILDLIFE | FOOD SUPPLY | MICROECONOMIC FACTORS | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | USAID | PUBLIC HEALTH | FORESTS | ECOLOGY | Developing Countries | Africa | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Natural Resources | Environment | Economic Factors | Government Agencies | Health Document Number: 324689 |
| 16. Title: Habitat targeting for controlling aquatic stages of malaria vectors in Africa [letter] Author: Killeen GF; Tanner M; Mukabana WR; Kalongolela MS; Kannady K Source: American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2006 Apr;74(4):517-518. Abstract: Gu and Novak have recently highlighted the potential for improving the cost-effectiveness of mosquito larval control as a malaria prevention measure in Africa, if the most productive habitats could be identified and targeted. We agree that this is, in principle, a valid hypothesis that probably holds true to some extent in real African field situations. However, we do have three major reservations that have substantial implications for the development of operational mosquito control programs in the poorest nations of tropical Africa. In the absence of a contemporary evidence base for the application of source reduction in Africa, we suggest the following caveats should be considered as the operational research community strives to translate the recent wave of historical review, theoretical elucidation, and supporting field ecology studies into sustainable, cost-effective programs that kill mosquitoes and prevent malaria. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | CRITIQUE | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | ANIMALS | MALARIA | ECOLOGY | Developing Countries | Africa | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Natural Resources | Environment | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 298714 |
| 17. Title: HIV infection and malaria - understanding the interactions [editorial] Author: Kublin JG; Steketee RW Source: Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2006;193:1-3. Abstract: The natural history of interactions between infectious diseases can be challenging to accurately describe. These interactions can be somewhat straightforward, as is the case with HIV and mycobacterial infections, or circuitous at best, as is the case with HIV infection and malaria. In this issue of the Journal of Infectious Diseases, Kamya et al. present additional evidence for a synergistic relationship between HIV infection and malaria. Despite the complexity of the pathogens involved and the challenges of conducting studies in areas where they are coendemic, Kamya et al. have succeeded in collecting data from sufficient numbers of coinfected persons to gain additional insights into this unfortunate synergistic relationship. In their analysis of data from clinical trials evaluating combination therapy for uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Uganda, HIV infection was associated with a 16-fold increased risk of new malarial infections but was not associated with antimalarial treatment failure. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | CLINICAL RESEARCH | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | MALARIA | COMPLICATIONS | ECOLOGY | HIV TESTING | COUNSELING | Research Methodology | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Parasitic Diseases | Environment | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 295428 |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: [Physical growth and nutritional profile of the Xavante indigenous population in Sangradouro-Volta Grande, Mato Grosso, Brazil] Crescimento fisico e perfil nutricional da populacao indigena Xavante de Sangradouro-Volta Grande, Mato Grosso, Brasil. Author: Leite MS; Santos RV; Gugelmin SA; Coimbra Junior CE Source: Cadernos de Saude Publica. 2006 Feb;22(2):265-276. Abstract: This study describes the physical growth and employs anthropometry to assess the nutritional status of a Xavánte indigenous community in central Brazil. Weight, stature, arm circumference, and triceps skinfold were measured in 549 individuals 0 to 90 years of age. Compared to the NCHS reference population, the children presented low height and weight for age, although maintaining body proportionality. Based on WHO criteria, 31.7% of children less than five years presented stunting, while 69.9% of adults presented some degree of overweight. Body composition measures in both genders were situated between the 25th and 50th percentiles of the NCHS reference population until adolescence, when they surpassed the medians. However the mean arm muscle area was consistently above the 50th percentile. The authors call attention to the complexity of the Xavánte epidemiological and nutritional profile, arguing that the study's findings have significant implications for the healthcare system serving this population, in addition to highlighting relevant ecological and socioeconomic issues, particularly in relation to food sustainability and nutritional transition. (author's) Language: Portuguese Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | NATIVE AMERICANS | GROWTH | ANTHROPOMETRY | NUTRITION | AGE FACTORS | CHILD NUTRITION | ECOLOGY | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Ethnic Groups | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Child Development | Biology | Measurement | Health | Environment | Economic Factors Document Number: 316706 |
| 19. Title: Building a Better Future for Youth: Learning from Experience and Evidence. Africa Regional Forum on Youth Reproductive Health and HIV, June 6-9, 2006, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania. Author: Malarcher S Source: Geneva, Switzerland, World Health Organization [WHO], Department of Reproductive Health and Research, 2006. 24 p. Abstract: On June 6-9, 2006 the World Health Organization's Department of Reproductive Health and Research (RHR), the Frontiers in Reproductive Health (FRONTIERS) Program of the Population Council, and the YouthNet Program (YouthNet) of Family Health International (FHI) sponsored a regional forum on critical issues in youth reproductive health and HIV programs in sub-Saharan Africa. These three organizations work at the forefront of youth reproductive health and HIV research; their combined contributions represent one of the largest and most up-to-date bodies of research and program evidence on youth. The objectives of the Africa Regional Forum on Youth Reproductive Health and HIV were to: share the latest research results and program evidence; share findings and methodologies of promising interventions for youth and identify new programs and techniques; identify gaps in existing research, programs, and policies in youth reproductive health and HIV prevention; and explore monitoring and evaluation methodologies and desired outcomes for youth programs. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | CONFERENCES AND CONGRESSES | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | YOUTH | PEER EDUCATORS | MONITORING | PROGRAM EVALUATION | CURRICULUM | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | HIV PREVENTION | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PREVENTION | RISK BEHAVIOR | SEX BEHAVIOR | ECOLOGY | Developing Countries | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Education | Programs | Organization and Administration | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Behavior | Environment Document Number: 327122 |
| 20. Title: What happens to traditional knowledge and use of natural resources when people migrate? [¿Qué sucede con los conocimientos tradicionales y el uso de los recursos naturales cuando las personas emigran?] Author: Nesheim I; Dhillion SS; Stolen KA Source: Human Ecology. 2006 Feb;34(1):99-131. Abstract: The study investigates traditional knowledge of forest plants in a community (La Quetzal) inhabited by people who returned to Guatemala at the end of the civil war, after 10--12 years in exile in Southern Mexico, and now are in the process of constructing a new community in the Lacandon jungle in the Peten, Guatemala. We ask if the basis of knowledge and the use of natural resources change when people migrate. The relevance of vascular plant diversity for consumption and other daily needs of the population is explored. Relatively few species are presently used, with the exception of timber species, where knowledge seems to be increasing. Traditional knowledge has been maintained in certain areas such as medicine. Nature as such is regarded as important primarily as potential monetary capital and not for its subsistence capital. We find that the refugee situation has led to the introduction of global consumption patterns. Still there continues to be a dynamic local intuitive knowledge arising directly from practical experiences. Two interlinked factors have been the driving forces altering the knowledge and the use of natural resources by the people in La Quetzal: Change in the natural environment and change in the social and economic environment. (author's) Spanish Abstract: Este estudio investiga los conocimientos tradicionales de las plantas silvestres en una comunidad (La Quetzal) habitada por personas que regresaron a Guatemala cuando finalizó la guerra civil, después de permanecer en el exilio en el sur de México durante 10 a 12 años y que, en la actualidad, están en proceso de erigir una nueva comunidad en la selva Lacandon en el Petén de Guatemala. El objetivo es averiguar si las bases de los conocimientos y el uso de los recursos naturales cambian cuando las personas emigran. Se investiga la importancia de la diversidad de plantas vasculares para el consumo y otras necesidades diarias de la población. En la actualidad se utilizan relativamente pocas especies, con la excepción de los árboles madereros sobre los que parece haber una expansión de conocimientos. Los conocimientos tradicionales se han mantenido en ciertas áreas como la medicina. La naturaleza como tal se considera importante básicamente como capital monetario potencial y no como capital de subsistencia. Se observó que la situación de refugiados ha derivado en la introducción de patrones mundiales de consumo. No obstante, se mantienen los conocimientos locales dinámicos intuitivos que se desprenden directamente de la experiencia concreta. Dos factores interrelacionados han sido las fuerzas impulsoras que alteran los conocimientos y el uso de los recursos naturales de la población de La Quetzal: los cambios en el medio ambiente natural y los cambios en la esfera social y económica. (del autor) Language: English Keywords: GUATEMALA | RESEARCH REPORT | KNOWLEDGE | ECOLOGY | NATURAL RESOURCES | PLANTS | RETURN MIGRATION | CHANGES | FORESTS | MEDICINAL PLANTS | FOOD AND BEVERAGE | KNOWLEDGE SOURCES | Developing Countries | Central America | Latin America | Americas | Sociocultural Factors | Environment | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Change | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Nutrition | Communication Document Number: 302557 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Culturally compelling strategies for behaviour change: A social ecology model and case study in malaria prevention. Author: Panter-Brick C; Clarke SE; Lomas H; Pinder M; Lindsay SW Source: Social Science and Medicine. 2006 Jun;62(11):2810-2825. Abstract: Behaviour change is notoriously difficult to initiate and sustain, and the reasons why efforts to promote healthy behaviours fail are coming under increasing scrutiny. To be successful, health interventions should build on existing practices, skills and priorities, recognise the constraints on human behaviour, and either feature community mobilisation or target those most receptive to change. Furthermore, interventions should strive to be culturally compelling, not merely culturally appropriate: they must engage local communities and nestle within social and ecological landscapes. In this paper, we propose a social ecology perspective to make explicit the links between intention to change, actual behaviour change, and subsequent health impact, as relating to both theory-based models and practical strategies for triggering behaviour change. A social ecology model focuses attention on the contexts of behaviour when designing, implementing or critically evaluating interventions. As a case study, we reflect on a community-directed intervention in rural Gambia designed to reduce malaria by promoting a relatively simple and low-cost behaviour: repairing holes in mosquito bednets. In phase 1, contextual information on bednet usage, transactions and repairs (the 'social lives' of nets) was documented. In phase 2 (intervention), songs were composed and posters displayed by community members to encourage repairs, creating a sense of ownership and a compelling medium for the transmission of health messages. In phase 3 (evaluation), qualitative and quantitative data showed that household responses were particularly rapid and extensive, with significant increase in bednet repairs (p < 0:001), despite considerable constraints on human agency. We highlight a promising approach--using songs--as a vehicle for change, and present a framework to embed the design, implementation and critical evaluation of interventions within the larger context--or social ecology--of behaviour practices that are the bedrock of health interventions. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GAMBIA | THEORETICAL STUDIES | RESEARCH REPORT | THEORETICAL MODELS | CASE STUDIES | RURAL POPULATION | CULTURE | ECOLOGY | MALARIA PREVENTION | SOCIAL MOBILIZATION | BED NETS | COST EFFECTIVENESS | MUSIC | MASS MEDIA | BEHAVIOR CHANGE COMMUNICATION | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Studies | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Environment | Malaria | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Social Change | Parasite Control | Public Health | Health | Evaluation Indexes | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Communication | Communication Programs | Behavior Change | Behavior Document Number: 299627 |
| 22. Peer Reviewed Title: Ecology of the Leishmania species in the Guianan ecoregion complex. [Ecología de las especies de Leishmania en el complejo ecorregional guyanés] Author: Rotureau B Source: American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2006 Jan;74(1):81-96. Abstract: In the Guianan ecoregion complex, at least seven Leishmania species belonging to both the L. (Leishmania) Saf' janova, 1982 and L. (Viannia) Lainson and Shaw, 1987 sub-genera are causative agents of American visceral leishmaniasis, mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, and cutaneous leishmaniases, including localized and diffuse forms. They are mostly sylvatic species subjugated to their own specific Lutzomyia sand fly vectors and to particular wild mammalian reservoir hosts of the dense rain forest. Originally implicated strictly in wild zoonoses and developing in forested ecotopes, Leishmania show a particular adaptive plasticity to face environmental modifications following deforestation and anthropization. This review presents the different pathogenic complexes of these parasites, emphasizes their implication in human diseases, and considers the influence of humans on their ecology. (author's) Spanish Abstract: En el complejo ecorregional guyanés, la leishmaniasis visceral americana y la leishmaniasis cutánea y mucocutánea, incluidas sus formas localizadas y difusas, son causadas al menos por siete especies de Leishmania pertenecientes a los subgéneros L. (Leishmania) Saf'janova (1982) y L. (Viannia) Lainson y Shaw (1987). Se trata, en gran medida, de especies selváticas supeditadas a vectores específicos como la mosca de la arena denominada Lutzomyia, y a huéspedes reservorios particulares (mamíferos salvajes de la densa selva tropical). Implicada, en principio, estrictamente en zoonosis silvestres y desarrollada en ecotopos forestados, la Leishmania muestra una especial plasticidad adaptativa para hacer frente a modificaciones ambientales como la deforestación o la antropización. Esta reseña presenta los diferentes complejos patogénicos de estos parásitos, enfatiza su implicancia en enfermedades humanas y analiza la influencia de los seres humanos en su ecología. (del autor) Language: English Keywords: FRENCH GUIANA | RESEARCH REPORT | LEISHMANIASIS | TRANSMISSION | ANIMALS | PARASITES | ECOLOGY | GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS | Developing Countries | South America, Northern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Infections | Natural Resources | Environment | Biology | Population Document Number: 296699 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Getting serious about cholera. Author: Sack DA; Sack RB; Chaignat CL Source: New England Journal of Medicine. 2006 Aug 17;355(7):649-651. Abstract: Deaths from cholera are again making news, this time in Angola. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Angola had reported 46,758 cases of cholera, including 1893 deaths, as of June 19, 2006. The outbreak has affected 14 of 18 provinces, but nearly half the cases were reported in the coastal capital, Luanda, and another 17 percent in Benguela provinces. The overall case fatality rate is about 4 percent, although in some provinces, it has reached 30 percent. This outbreak represents another in a series of cholera epidemics in this country, which is among the poorest in the world and is still recovering from years of armed conflict. Several other African countries have also had recent outbreaks (see map), in the seventh pandemic of cholera caused by Vibrio cholerae O1 El Tor, which reached Africa in 1970. In addition to the reported cases, many are either not reported or are labeled as "acute watery diarrhea." Although 94 percent of the 101,383 cholera cases and 99 percent of the 2345 related deaths registered with the WHO in 2004 occurred in sub-Saharan Africa, these numbers present a misleading picture of the global cholera burden. V. cholerae infects persons in many developing countries, with the highest rates in Asia, but many Asian countries do not report their cases because of the effects on trade and travel, however unwarranted. The true burden is probably several million cases in Asia and Africa, with fewer cases in Latin America. Assuming a case fatality rate of 4 percent (on the basis of treated cases), annual mortality of at least 40,000 to 100,000 is probable, and even this may be an underestimation: since many patients die before reaching a health care facility, the true number of deaths may be much higher. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | CRITIQUE | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | TARGET POPULATION | CHOLERA | EPIDEMICS | DIARRHEA | INFECTION PREVENTION | DEHYDRATION | SANITATION | ECOLOGY | ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Program Design | Programs | Organization and Administration | Bacterial and Fungal Diseases | Infections | Diseases | Metabolic Effects | Physiology | Biology | Public Health | Health | Environment | Natural Resources Document Number: 306605 |
| 24. Title: Spatial analysis of child mortality in Nigeria. Author: Salau S; Galpin J; Odimegwu C Source: [Unpublished] 2006. Presented at the Population Association of America, 2006 Annual Meeting, Los Angeles, California, March 30 - April 1, 2006. [3] p. Abstract: One of the Millennium Development Goals is the reduction of under 5 mortality by two-thirds between 1990 and 2015. Although there has been a substantial reduction in infant and child mortality rates in most developing countries in the recent past, child mortality remains a major public health issue in developing countries where it is estimated that over 10 million preventable child deaths occur yearly. Progress in child mortality reduction remain unacceptable in Sub-Saharan Africa. With special reference to Nigeria, the giant of Africa, available statistics suggest that child mortality levels continue to be high and exhibit wide geographic disparities. Previous studies in Nigeria have mainly focused on the contribution of individual and household factors in explaining child mortality differences in the country. Such studies have also found child mortality differentials at aggregated levels of region while neglecting the critical influence of community-level variables and small area variations. Studying the spatial patterns of child mortality and their determining factors (particularly the community level variables) will help improve our understanding of the mortality situation in the country and subsequently in the design and implementation of policies and interventions to lower disparities and achieve uniform decline nationwide. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | CHILDREN | COMMUNITY | HOUSEHOLDS | CHILD MORTALITY | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | RISK FACTORS | POPULATION DENSITY | URBAN AREAS | DISTANCE | SEASONAL VARIATION | ECOLOGY | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Mortality | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Biology | Environment Document Number: 317432 |
| 25. Title: The impact of pesticide exposure on breast cancer incidence: evidence from Costa Rica, 1996-2000. Author: Santamaria C Source: [Unpublished] 2006. Presented at the Population Association of America, 2006 Annual Meeting, Los Angeles, California, March 30 - April 1, 2006. 33 p. Abstract: The low percentage of breast cancer cases related to reproductive history risk factors and to genetics suggests that the environment may play a role in breast cancer etiology. Pesticide exposure has been hypothesized to have an important effect. This ecological study tests whether breast cancer incidence in Costa Rica is related to pesticide exposure, after controlling for parity, socioeconomic status, age at first full-term pregnancy, and access to health care. Spatial analysis techniques were used to test for spatial autocorrelation and to rule out the heterogeneity of a possible relationship between breast cancer and pesticides. Because of the time-lag between exposure and incidence, migration bias was also mitigated. Results suggest that there is a heterogeneous association between pesticides and breast cancer, which is significant only in some rural agricultural areas of the country. Conclusions about causality can not be drawn from an ecologic approach, like the one taken in this study. (author's) Language: English Keywords: COSTA RICA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | RURAL POPULATION | BREAST CANCER | PESTICIDES | TOXICITY | ECOLOGY | RISK FACTORS | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | Central America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Cancer | Neoplasms | Diseases | Ingredients and Chemicals | Physiology | Biology | Environment | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 317436 |
| 26. Peer Reviewed Title: Environmental degradation and human well-being: report of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. Source: Population and Development Review. 2005 Jun;31(2):389-398. Abstract: The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, an elaborate international project set up in 2001 under UN auspices, aims “to assess the consequences of ecosystem change for human wellbeing and to establish the scientific basis for actions needed to enhance the conservation and sustainable use of ecosystems and their contributions to human well-being.” It involves over 1,000 experts as panel and working group members, authors, and reviewers. Numerous reports are planned, covering the global and regional situations, scenarios of the future, and options for sustainable management. The first of these, the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Synthesis Report, was issued in March 2005. The Report is organized around four main findings. The first two concern the past: what has happened and what it has meant for human welfare. The other two concern the future: what may happen and what might be done to improve matters. The time frame is the last 50 years and the next 50. Ecological change is assessed in terms of ecosystem services— the benefits humans receive from ecosystems. These include: provisioning services (supplying food, fresh water, timber, etc.); regulating services (climate regulation, erosion control, pollination); cultural services (recreation, aesthetic enjoyment); and supporting services (soil formation, photosynthesis, nutrient cycling). Of 24 services examined in the assessment, 15 are determined to be in decline or are being drawn on at an unsustainable rate. The welfare costs of these changes are disproportionately borne by the poor. Four world scenarios are developed to explore plausible ecological futures, varying in degrees of regionalism and economic liberalization and in approaches to ecosystem management. Under all of them the outlook is for continued pressure on consumption of ecosystem services and continued loss of biodiversity. In particular, ecosystem degradation “is already a significant barrier to achieving the Millennium Development Goals agreed to by the international community in September 2000 and the harmful consequences of this degradation could grow significantly worse in the next 50 years.” Remedy will be demanding: “An effective set of responses to ensure the sustainable management of ecosystems requires substantial changes in institutions and governance, economic policies and incentives, social and behavior factors, technology, and knowledge.” Such changes “are not currently under way.” The excerpt below, covering Findings #1 and #2 of the Assessment, is taken from the section of the report titled Summary for Decision-makers. Most of the charts are omitted. Parenthetical levels of certainty correspond to the following probabilities: very certain, = 98%; high certainty, 85–98%; medium, 65–85%; low, 52–65%. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | GOVERNMENT PUBLICATION | HISTORICAL REVIEW | POLICYMAKERS | ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | UN | ECOLOGY | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | POVERTY | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Environment | International Agencies | Organizations | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 292312 |
| 27. Title: Ecology and health: a study among tribals of Ladakh. Author: Bhasin V Source: Studies of Tribes and Tribals. 2005;3(1):1-13. Abstract: In most parts of India, Multiple therapy systems and a diversity of health behaviour patterns co-exist and Ladakh is no exception. The status, growth and evaluation of co-existing therapy systems have been influenced by cultural ideology, ecology, political patronage, changing social institutions, disenchantment with and romanticization of values represented by therapy systems (or their supporters). In the present paper an attempt has been made to describe the ways in which a common Ladakhi thinks about medicine and how these perceptions effect the utilization of alternative therapy systems. This paper examines the alternative resources and treatments utilized by various population groups in Ladakh. The study reveals a multiple therapy systems. The multiple dimensions of health care are described in terms of medical behaviour of health sector and the practioners, and health care strategies employed by the patient. Medical pluralism may be defined as the synchronic existence in a society of more than one medicine system grounded in different principles or based on different world views. In the Indian context the important components of medical pluralism are allopathy, ayurvada, homeopathy, and unani. In the Ladakhi context components of medical pluralism are allopathy or bio-medicine, shamanism (Locally known as Lhawaism), lamaism, and scholarly amchi medicine. Among Ladakhis, choice of therapy depends on illness specific patterns of resort. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | INDIGENOUS POPULATION | TRADITIONAL HEALERS | TRADITIONAL HEALTH PRACTICES | PERCEPTION | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | INDIGENOUS HEALTH SERVICES | TRADITIONAL MEDICINE | CULTURE | BUDDHISM | ISLAM | ECOLOGY | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Religion | Environment Document Number: 305580 |
| 28. Title: Multiple methods in the study of driving forces of land use and land cover change: a case study of SE Kajiado District, Kenya. Author: Campbell DJ; Lusch DP; Smucker TA; Wangui EE Source: Human Ecology. 2005 Dec;33(6):763-794. Abstract: This landscape-scale study combines analysis of multitemporal satellite imagery spanning 30 years and information from field studies extending over 25 years to assess the extent and causes of land use and land cover change in the Loitokitok area, southeast Kajiado District, Kenya. Rain fed and irrigated agriculture, livestock herding, and wildlife and tourism have all experienced rapid change in their structure, extent, and interactions over the past 30 years in response to a variety of economic, cultural, political, institutional, and demographic processes. Land use patterns and processes are explored through a complementary application of interpretation of satellite imagery and case study analysis that explicitly addresses the local-national spatial scale over a time frame appropriate to the identification of fundamental causal processes. The results illustrate that this combination provides an effective basis for describing and explaining patterns of land use and land cover change and their root causes. (author's) Language: English Keywords: KENYA | ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICTS | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | CASE STUDIES | COMMUNITY | LAND AND RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT | ECOLOGY | AGRICULTURE | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS | SATELLITE CENTERS | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Population | Studies | Research Methodology | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Rural Development | Economic Factors | Environment | Macroeconomic Factors | Geography | Social Sciences | Health Facilities | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 294196 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Prevention and control of sexually transmitted infections among adolescents: the importance of a socio-ecological perspective -- a commentary. Author: DiClemente RJ; Salazar LF; Crosby RA; Rosenthal SL Source: Public Health. 2005 Sep;119(9):825-836. Abstract: The sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemic among adolescents in the USA is inextricably tied to individual, psychosocial and cultural phenomena. Reconceptualizing the epidemic within an expanded socio-ecological framework may provide an opportunity to better confront its challenges. In this article, we use a socio-ecological framework to identify determinants of adolescents’ sexual risk and protective behaviours as well as antecedents of their STI acquisition. The goal is to provide a synthesis of several discrete categories of research. Subsequently, we propose an integrated strategy that addresses the STI epidemic among adolescents by promoting a socio-ecological perspective in both basic research and intervention design. This approach may expand the knowledge base and facilitate the development of a broader array of intervention strategies, such as community level interventions, policy initiatives, institutionally based programmes, and macro-level societal changes. Although there are inherent challenges associated with such an approach, the end result may have reciprocal and re-inforcing effects designed to enhance the adoption and maintenance of STI-preventive practices among adolescents, and further reduce the rate of STIs. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | ADOLESCENTS | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PREVENTION | ECOLOGY | SOCIAL NETWORKS | RISK ASSESSMENT | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Environment | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Behavior Document Number: 289455 |
| 30. Title: Rethinking clinical models and coping with disaster: an ecological point of view. Author: Gregory RJ Source: Journal of Human Ecology. 2005;18(3):221-224. Abstract: Clinical models, as in medicine and psychology, assume that the majority of people in a given setting are performing well, and that only a few are having trouble, due to personal deficits that can be alleviated by expert diagnosis and treatment. In parallel, on a larger scale for our communities and nations, coping with disaster assumes that a community is, on the whole, basically fine, although an occasional temporary disaster may occur. Such disasters can be alleviated by interventions, such as help from neighboring communities, particularly those with expertise and ample resources. In times of prosperity and general good-will, and in times of rapid growth and development, this situation may be so. However, a broader point of view, i.e., that inspired by ecology and general systems theory, might find a different situation. In at least some situations, individuals, groups, communities, states, and even the globe itself, may not be performing well, particularly during natural disasters, physical changes, resource losses, and economic, social, and/or political declines. The faults, deficits, or disasters may lie not in individuals or component parts, but in the whole, that is, the larger "system" itself. The conceptual models, such as the "clinical model", depend upon economic good times, ample resources and good will and when those assumptions change, the model may no longer hold up. Interventions for individuals and disasters then, may require rethinking assumptions, as well as devising alternative approaches and revitalizing systems as on-going requirements. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NEW ZEALAND | RESEARCH REPORT | THEORETICAL MODELS | COMMUNITY | NATURAL DISASTERS | PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS | ECOLOGY | Developed Countries | Oceania | Research Methodology | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Environment | Behavior Document Number: 304690 |
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