1.  Peer Reviewed Title: Sub-Saharan African university students' beliefs about condoms, condom-use intention, and subsequent condom use: a prospective study. Author: Heeren GA; Jemmott 3d JB; Mandeya A; Tyler JC Source: AIDS and Behavior. 2009 Apr;13(2):268-276. Abstract: This study examined whether certain behavioral beliefs, normative beliefs, and control beliefs predict the intention to use condoms and subsequent condom use among 320 undergraduates at a university in South Africa. The students completed confidential questionnaires on two occasions separated by three months. Participants' mean age was 23.4 years, 47.8% were women, 48.9% were South Africans, and 51.1% were from other sub-Saharan African countries. Multiple regression revealed that condom-use intention was predicted by hedonistic behavioral beliefs, normative beliefs regarding sexual partners and peers, and control beliefs regarding condom-use technical skill and impulse control. Logistic regression revealed that baseline condom-use intention predicted consistent condom use and condom use during most recent intercourse at three-month follow-up. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | STUDENTS | SEXUAL PARTNERS | BELIEFS | UNIVERSITIES | CONDOMS | CONDOM USE | VALUE ORIENTATION | SAFER SEX | PEER PRESSURE | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Education | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Culture | Sociocultural Factors | Schools | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Risk Reduction Behavior | Psychological Factors | Psychosocial Factors Document Number: 340124 |
| 2. Title: Long-term follow-up of a peer-led HIV/AIDS prevention program for married women in rural China. Author: Hong H; Ji GP; Ye DQ Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009 Apr 3; Abstract: Women are infected with HIV at increasing rates worldwide, and the incidence of new AIDS cases has been rising faster for women than for men. In China, rural married women may become infected with HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when their husbands return home after working in cities. Studies have demonstrated that many married rural women know little about condom use or STIs, and that their low level of knowledge puts them at risk. Since HIV is mainly sexually transmitted and there is neither an effective vaccine nor a cure for HIV/AIDS, the most important way to control HIV/AIDS is to decrease high-risk sexual behavior by improving women's HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and attitudes. In 2007 and 2008, we conducted a follow-up study with 737 married women in North Anhui, China, to evaluate the long-term effects of a peer education program for married women. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | CURRENTLY MARRIED | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PEER EDUCATORS | RURAL POPULATION | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV PREVENTION | LONGTERM EFFECTS | CONDOM USE | KNOWLEDGE | ATTITUDES | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Education | Population Characteristics | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Time Factors | Population Dynamics | Risk Reduction Behavior | Behavior | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors Document Number: 341463 |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: Effects of maternal multimicronutrient supplementation on the mental development of infants in rural western China: follow-up evaluation of a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Author: Li Q; Yan H; Zeng L; Cheng Y; Liang W; Dang S; Wang Q; Tsuji I Source: Pediatrics. 2009 Apr;123(4):e685-92. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: We investigated the benefits of maternal multimicronutrient supplementation during gestation on the mental and psychomotor development of infants. METHODS: In a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial, pregnant women (N = 5828) in 2 rural counties in western China were assigned randomly to receive multimicronutrient (5 minerals and 10 vitamins at levels approximating the recommended daily allowance), folic acid plus iron, or folic acid supplementation daily from approximately 14 weeks of gestation until delivery. We assessed a subset of the newborns (N = 1305) from the 3 supplementation groups by measuring their mental and psychomotor development with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, at 3, 6, and 12 months of age. Multilevel analyses were used to compare the mental development and psychomotor development raw scores at 3, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS: Multimicronutrient supplementation was associated with mean increases in mental development raw scores for infants at 1 year of age of 1.00 and 1.22 points, compared with folic acid only and folic acid plus iron supplementation, respectively. However, supplementation did not increase significantly the psychomotor development raw scores up to 1 year of age. CONCLUSION: Compared with iron and folic acid supplementation, the administration of multimicronutrients to pregnant women improved the mental development of their children at 1 year of age. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | DOUBLE-BLIND STUDIES | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | RURAL POPULATION | INFANT | PREGNANT WOMEN | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | VITAMINS AND MINERALS | FOOD SUPPLEMENTATION | CHILD DEVELOPMENT | INTELLIGENCE | ANTENATAL CARE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Studies | Data Analysis | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Physiology | Biology | Nutrition Programs | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Personality | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services Document Number: 331245 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: Role of widows in the heterosexual transmission of HIV in Manicaland, Zimbabwe, 1998 2003. Author: Lopman BA; Nyamukapa C; Hallett TB; Mushati P; Spark-du Preez N; Kurwa F; Wambe M; Gregson S Source: Sexually Transmitted Infections. 2009 Apr;85(Suppl 1):i41-i48. Abstract: Background: AIDS is the main driver of young widowhood in southern Africa. Methods: The demographic characteristics of widows, their reported risk behaviours and the prevalence of HIV were examined by analysing a longitudinal populationbased cohort of men and women aged 15-54 years in Manicaland, eastern Zimbabwe. The results from statistical analyses were used to construct a mathematical simulation model with the aim of estimating the contribution of widow behaviour to heterosexual HIV transmission. Results: 413 (11.4%) sexually experienced women and 31 (1.2%) sexually experienced men were reported to be widowed at the time of follow-up. The prevalence of HIV was exceptionally high among both widows (61%) and widowers (male widows) (54%). Widows were more likely to have high rates of partner change and engage in a pattern of transactional sex than married women. Widowers took partners who were a median of 10 years younger than themselves. Mathematical model simulations of different scenarios of sexual behaviour of widows suggested that the sexual activity of widow(er)s may underlie 8-17% of new HIV infections over a 20-year period. Conclusions: This combined statistical analysis and model simulation suggest that widowhood plays an important role in the transmission of HIV in this rural Zimbabwean population. High-risk partnerships may be formed when widowed men and women reconnect to the sexual network. Language: English Keywords: ZIMBABWE | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | COHORT ANALYSIS | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | WIDOWED | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | HETEROSEXUALS | SEX WORKERS | MULTIPLE PARTNERS | HIV INFECTIONS | PREVALENCE | SEX BEHAVIOR | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Behavior | Sexual Partners | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement Document Number: 340106 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Mortality and loss to follow-up among HAART initiators in rural South Africa. Author: MacPherson P; Moshabela M; Martinson N; Pronyk P Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2009 Jun;103(6):588-93. Abstract: A retrospective cohort study of mortality rates and potential predictors of death was conducted in public-sector patients initiating highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) between October 2005 and September 2007 in a rural, under-resourced region of South Africa. The aims were to determine the relative contribution of death to cohort exit and the causes and predictors of mortality among HAART initiators. A community outreach programme traced non-attenders. Patients categorised as dying at home underwent a verbal autopsy (by interviewing family members) and case-file review, and those dying in hospital a case-file review, to determine the probable cause of death. At 24 months 1131 (83.6%) patients were retained on treatment in the programme, 124 (9.2%) had died, 63 (4.7%) had transferred out, and 35 (2.6%) were lost to follow-up. The most common causes of death were tuberculosis (44.3%) and diarrhoeal diseases (24.5%). Death was the major reason for cohort exit. As experience is gained with rural HAART programmes mortality rates may decrease. These results draw attention to the need for early HIV diagnosis, increased access to HAART services with earlier treatment initiation, and routine screening and aggressive management of opportunistic infections, particularly tuberculosis. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | RETROSPECTIVE STUDIES | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | RURAL POPULATION | CLIENTS | MORTALITY | DEATH RATE | HIV | TUBERCULOSIS | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | CAUSES OF DEATH | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Population Dynamics | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Infections Document Number: 342753 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: The LNG-IUS study on adenomyosis: a 3-year follow-up study on the efficacy and side effects of the use of levonorgestrel intrauterine system for the treatment of dysmenorrhea associated with adenomyosis. Author: Sheng J; Zhang WY; Zhang JP; Lu D Source: Contraception. 2009 Mar;79(3):189-93. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and side effects of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) in the treatment of moderate or severe dysmenorrhea associated with adenomyosis for a 3-year follow-up period. STUDY DESIGN: The LNG-IUS was inserted into 94 women who had moderate or severe dysmenorrhea associated with adenomyosis diagnosed by transvaginal sonography during Cycle Days 5-7. A visual analogue scale (VAS) of dysmenorrhea, uterine volume and serum CA125 levels were used to assess the efficacy of the treatment at baseline and 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months after the LNG-IUS insertion. Side effects were recorded at every follow-up visit. RESULTS: The VAS of dysmenorrhea dropped continuously and significantly from the baseline score of 77.9+/-14.7 to 11.8+/-17.9 after 36 months of the LNG-IUS insertion (p<.001). The uterine volume decreased significantly from 113.8+/-46.9 mL to 94.5+/-40.1 mL (p=.003) at 6 months and to 87.7+/-35.8 mL (p<.001) at 12 months and then rose slightly, but the variables at 24 and 36 months still decreased significantly in comparison with the baseline variable (p<.001). The serum CA125 levels reduced significantly starting from 6 months after device insertion (p<.001). The most common side effects were weight gain (28.7%), simple ovarian cyst formation (22.3%) and lower abdominal pain (12.8%). At 36 months, the overall satisfaction rate of the treatment was 72.5%. CONCLUSIONS: The LNG-IUS appears to be an effective method in alleviating dysmenorrhea associated with adenomyosis during 3 years. It may be a valuable long-term alternative for the treatment of adenomyosis. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LEVONORGESTREL | IUD, HORMONE RELEASING | DYSMENORRHEA | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS, SIDE EFFECTS | ULTRASONICS | BODY WEIGHT | OVARIAN CYSTS | PAIN | GASTROINTESTINAL EFFECTS | TIME FACTORS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Studies | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Contraception | Family Planning | IUD | Contraceptive Methods | Menstruation Disorders | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Physiology | Biology | Signs and Symptoms | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 341129 |
| 8. Title: Reproductive history, oral contraceptive use, and the risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic stoke in a cohort study of middle-aged Swedish women. Author: Yang L; Kuper H; Sandin S; Margolis KL; Chen Z; Adami HO; Weiderpass E Source: Stroke; A Journal of Cerebral Circulation. 2009 Apr;40(4):1050-8. Abstract: BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Controversy persists as to whether oral contraceptive (OC) use and reproductive history play a role in the etiology of stroke, particularly ischemic stroke. Our aim was to investigate this question in a cohort of middle-aged Swedish women. METHODS: The Women's Lifestyle and Health Cohort Study included 49259 Swedish women, aged 30 to 49 years at baseline (1991 to 1992). Participants completed an extensive questionnaire and were traced through linkages to national registries until the end of 2004. RESULTS: Among the 45699 women included in these analyses, there were 285 cases of incident stroke during follow-up (193 ischemic stroke, 72 hemorrhagic stroke, and 20 of unknown origin). Neither ischemic nor hemorrhagic stroke risk was related to OC use, duration, or type of OC use, even among women who were smokers or hypertensive. Though not statistically significant, risk of hemorrhagic stroke was elevated in women who started using OCs after the age of 30 (Hazard Ratio [HR] 2.3, 95% CI=0.8 to 6.8) and women recommended by a doctor to stop using OC for medical reasons (2.1, 0.9 to 5.0) compared with never users. Compared with nulliparous women, parous women had a statistically significant lower risk of hemorrhagic stroke (0.5, 0.2 to 0.8), but similar association was not found for ischemic stroke (0.9, 0.5 to 1.4). CONCLUSIONS: There was no significant association of OC use with ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, and the parity was associated with reduced risk of hemorrhagic stroke but not with ischemic stroke. Language: English Keywords: SWEDEN | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | COHORT ANALYSIS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | WOMEN | MIDDLE AGED ADULTS | PREVALENCE | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, SIDE EFFECTS | CEREBROVASCULAR EFFECTS | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, CONTRAINDICATIONS | PARITY | RISK FACTORS | Developed Countries | Europe, Northern | Europe | Research Methodology | Studies | Demographic Factors | Population | Adults | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Measurement | Contraceptive Safety | Safety | Public Health | Health | Physiology | Biology | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics Document Number: 331084 |
9.  Title: Long-term use of Standard Days method: Experience of operations research study participants. Author: Georgetown University. Institute for Reproductive Health. AWARENESS Project Source: Washington, D.C., Georgetown University, Institute for Reproductive Health, 2008 Feb. [22] p. (USAID Cooperative Agreement No. HRN-A-00-97-00011-00) Abstract: This long-term follow-up (LTFU) study sought to learn more about Standard Days Method® (SDM) use beyond the six or 12 month follow-up period of a series of 14 operations research (OR) studies in six countries. The LTFU study followed participants of OR studies in Benin, Ecuador, Honduras, and two sites in India for up to 24 additional months to determine long-term continuation and effectiveness patterns, reasons for discontinuation, and whether women use the SDM to achieve pregnancy if their fertility intentions change. The 1,183 participants represented wide variability in geographic location, service delivery mode, age, parity, education level and ever use of contraception. Significant loss to follow-up at the point of transition between the OR and LTFU studies and the retrospective nature of the LTFU questions were taken into consideration in data analysis. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: BENIN | ECUADOR | HONDURAS | INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | FAMILY PLANNING, BEHAVIORAL METHODS | CONTRACEPTIVE USE-EFFECTIVENESS | CONTRACEPTION CONTINUATION | PREGNANCY RATE | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | Central America | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Family Planning | Contraceptive Effectiveness | Contraception | Contraceptive Usage | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 327647 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Predictors of adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-infected persons: a prospective study in Southwest Ethiopia. Author: Amberbir A; Woldemichael K; Getachew S; Girma B; Deribe K Source: BMC Public Health. 2008 Jul 30;8:265. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The devastating impact of AIDS in the world especially in sub-Saharan Africa has led to an unprecedented global effort to ensure access to antiretroviral (ARV) drugs. Given that medication-taking behavior can immensely affect an individual's response; ART adherence is now widely recognized as an 'Achilles heel' for the successful outcome. The present study was undertaken to investigate the rate and predictors of adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-infected persons in southwest Ethiopia. METHODS: The study was conducted in the antiretroviral therapy unit of Jimma University Specialized Hospital. A prospective study was undertaken on a total of 400 HIV infected person. Data were collected using a pre-tested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire at first month (M0) and third month (M3) follow up visits. RESULTS: A total of 400 and 383 patients at baseline (M0) and at follow up visit (M3) respectively were interviewed. Self-reported dose adherence in the study area was 94.3%. The rate considering the combined indicator (dose, time and food) was 75.7%. Within a three month follow up period, dose adherence decreased by 2% and overall adherence rate decreased by more than 3%. Adherence was common in those patients who have a social support (OR, 1.82, 95%CI, 1.04, 3.21). Patients who were not depressed were two times more likely to be adherent than those who were depressed (OR, 2.13, 95%CI, 1.18, 3.81). However, at the follow up visit, social support (OR, 2.42, 95%CI, 1.29, 4.55) and the use of memory aids (OR, 3.29, 95%CI, 1.44, 7.51) were found to be independent predictors of adherence. The principal reasons reported for skipping doses in this study were simply forgetting, feeling sick or ill, being busy and running out of medication in more than 75% of the cases. CONCLUSION: The self reported adherence rate was high in the study area. The study showed that adherence is a dynamic process which changes overtime and cannot reliably be predicted by a few patient characteristics that are assumed to vary with time. Adherence is a process, not a single event, and adherence support should be integrated into regular clinical follow up. Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | LOGISTIC MODEL | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | HIV INFECTIONS | ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS | ACCEPTORS | USER COMPLIANCE | NONACCEPTORS | DEPRESSION | DIET | HOSPITALS | QUESTIONNAIRES | SUPPORT GROUPS | TREATMENT | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | Mathematical Model | Theoretical Models | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Behavior | Mental Disorders | Nutrition | Health Facilities | Social Networks | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 328263 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: Preference for CD4-guided versus continuous HARRT in Thailand. Author: Ananworanich J; Pumpradit W; Apateerapong W; Siangphoe U; Saenawat S Source: AIDS Care. 2008 Mar;20(3):327-330. Abstract: Nineteen patients who completed a 27-month CD4-guided structured treatment interruption (STI) trial that showed similar efficacy in STI and continuous arms were asked to choose CD4-guided versus continuous HAART after the study ended. Six chose STI and 13 chose continuous HAART. Reasons for not choosing STIs were fear of developing HIV-related illnesses (38%), fear of CD4 drop (30.8%), fear of viral load increase (7.7%) and ease (7.7%). Those who preferred CD4-guided HAART had a higher median CD4 count nadir during STI and fewer on-off cycles. This study provides an important insight into the preference of patients towards STI in a resource-limited setting. (author's) Language: English Keywords: THAILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | CLINICAL TRIALS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | AIDS PREVENTION | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | FEAR | DECISION MAKING | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | USER COMPLIANCE | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Clinical Research | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | AIDS | HIV | Emotions | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 325504 |
| 12. Title: Role of Escherichia coli in acute diarrhoea in tribal preschool children of central India. Author: Anvikar AR; Dolla C; Dutta S; Rao VG; Gadge VS Source: Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology. 2008 Jan;22(1):40-46. Abstract: Five hundred and eighty preschool children belonging to tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh were followed up daily for the presence of diarrhoea for a period of 1 year. In all, 1236 episodes of diarrhoea were recorded with an average of 2.13 episodes per child per year. Stool samples were collected during 780 episodes. They were cultured to isolate Escherichia coli as well as non-E. coli enteropathogens. Ten different genes were detected to identify all diarrhoeagenic E. coli using multiplex polymerase chain reaction. Enteroaggregative E. coli was the commonest diarrhoeagenic E. coli and was isolated from 64 children, followed by enteropathogenic E. coli (27), enterotoxigenic E. coli (10) and enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (2). Other enteropathogens detected were bacteria such as Shigella sp, Vibrio cholerae and Salmonella sp, parasites such as Giardia lamblia and Entameba histolytica, and rotavirus. Most of the bacterial pathogens were multi-drug resistant. The study shows that diarrhoeagenic E. coli contribute significantly to the burden of acute diarrhoea in tribal preschool children. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | GENETIC TECHNIQUES | CLINICAL RESEARCH | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CHILDREN | INDIGENOUS POPULATION | BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL DISEASES | DIARRHEA | DRUG RESISTANCE | PREVALENCE | PARASITIC DISEASES | ROTAVIRUS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Infections | Diseases | Treatment | Measurement | Viral Diseases Document Number: 323206 |
| 13. Title: The association between domestic violence during pregnancy and low birth weight or prematurity. Author: Audi CA; Correa AM; Latorre MR; Santiago SM Source: Jornal de Pediatria. 2008 Jan-Feb;84(1):60-67. Abstract: The objective was to investigate whether domestic violence during pregnancy is associated with unfavorable infant health outcomes, measured by low birth weight or prematurity. This was a prospective cohort study enrolling pregnant women whose prenatal care was provided by 10 basic health units in the city of Campinas, SP, Brazil, between 2004 and 2006. A structured questionnaire was employed that had previously been validated for use in Brazil. Each mother attended a minimum of two and a maximum of three interviews during the prenatal and postnatal periods. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Student's t test was used to compare means for birth weight and gestational age between mothers who had suffered domestic violence during the current pregnancy and those who had not. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with low birth weight or prematurity. During the prenatal and postnatal periods, 89.1% (n = 1,229) of the pregnant women were followed up, 10.9% being lost to follow-up, basically due to changes of address. Mean birth weight was 3,233 g; mean gestational age was 38.56 weeks. A total of 13.8% of the infants had low birth weight or were premature. Conditions associated with risk of low birth weight or prematurity were: mothers who had previously given birth prematurely (p less than 0.005), who smoked (p less than 0.001), who delivered by caesarian (p less than 0.001) and whose partners had a low educational level (p less than 0.008). In this study, no statistically significant association was observed between domestic violence perpetrated by partners and low birth weight or prematurity. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | COHORT ANALYSIS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | INFANT, PREMATURE | INFANT | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LOW BIRTH WEIGHT | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | GESTATIONAL AGE | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Birth Weight | Body Weight | Physiology | Biology | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Fetus | Pregnancy | Reproduction Document Number: 325265 |
| 14. Title: Symptom-specific care-seeking behavior for sick neonates among urban poor in Lucknow, Northern India. Author: Awasthi S; Srivastava NM; Pant S Source: Journal of Perinatology. 2008 Dec;28 Suppl 2:S69-75. Abstract: To assess symptom-specific care-seeking practices for newborns and behavioral factors associated with them to inform strategies to enhance newborn care seeking in urban Lucknow, Northern India. This was a prospective follow-up study of consecutive 326 neonates delivered at an urban reproductive and child health (RCH) center. Focused Group Discussions (n=5) were also conducted in urban slums (n=3) at the RCH center (n=1) and at a district hospital (n=1). Overall, 326 neonates were recruited within 48 h of birth and 289 (88.7%) were followed up at 6 weeks (+/-15 days) at home. Parents of 51.2% (148/289) neonates reported at least one symptom of illness. Among these, 27.3% (79/289) neonates had at least one reported Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) danger sign, of which 15 (18.9%) did not receive any modern medical care, 5(33.3%) of which were dead by early infancy. Care seeking from unqualified providers (spiritual/traditional) was 33.3% (3/9) for persistent diarrhea and 23.5% (4/17) for pneumonia. Qualitative data from Focused Group Discussions showed that when pictures of some danger signs were shown like sunken eyes, reduced skin turgor, chest in-drawing and bulged fontanel, care seeking for these as well as fast breathing were influenced by 'local beliefs', which considered them to be untreatable by modern medicines alone. Thus, care seeking from multiple providers and use of traditional/home remedies delayed appropriate and timely medical care seeking. Almost half of the neonates had an illness symptom of which half had an IMNCI danger sign, of which one fifth did not receive medical care. Therefore, there is an urgent need to introduce a locally modified community IMNCI program here, for promoting care seeking from qualified providers for sick neonates. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | URBAN POPULATION | LOW INCOME POPULATION | INFANT | CHILD SURVIVAL | MORBIDITY | BEHAVIOR | HEALTH SERVICES | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | TREATMENT | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Diseases | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine Document Number: 331044 |
| 15. Title: Final report. Contraceptive discontinuation: a one-year follow-up study of female reversible method users in urban Honduras. Author: Barden-O’Fallon J; Speizer I; Caceres Zelaya S; Calix Borjas J; Rodriguez Valenzuela F Source: [Chapel Hill, North Carolina] University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center [CPC], MEASURE Evaluation, 2008 Oct. 45 p. (SR-08-46USAID Cooperative Agreement No. GPO-A-00-03-00003-00) Also available in Spanish: http://www.cpc.unc.edu/measure/publications/pdf/sr-08-46-es.pdf Abstract: The overall goal of the present study is to examine women's contraceptive use prospectively over a one-year period. It aims to go beyond previous research by assessing the relative importance of and interactions among the family planning service environment, women's individual characteristics, and their experience with side effects on contraception continuation or discontinuation. The findings from this study complement the Honduras Encuesta Nacional de Demografía y Salud 2005-2006 (ENDESA) (Secretaria de Salud & Marco International, 2006). ENDESA is a cross-sectional survey of a nationally-representative sample of all women aged 15-49 that includes retrospective and current measures of contraceptive use. The present study follows a panel of women recruited from family planning service sites who at the time of the first interview were either continuing or new users of a temporary (reversible) contraceptive method. The study examines patterns of contraceptive use during the follow-up period. As compared to the women surveyed in ENDESA, the family planning clients in this study are significantly younger, less likely to be working, and less likely to have a religious affiliation. The study was conducted in four urban areas of Honduras: Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Santa Rosa de Copán/La Entrada, and Gracias. It included three phases of data collection. Phase I collected qualitative data on the decision-making processes around contraceptive adoption/continuation, including the role of providers in this process, perceptions of side effects, perceptions of service providers, usual reactions to side effects, and motivations to continue use when side effects are experienced. In phase II, 800 new and continuing users of female reversible contraceptive methods were recruited as they left the participating family planning service sites. Phase III conducted follow-up interviews with the same women interviewed in phase II approximately one year after the baseline interview. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: HONDURAS | EVALUATION REPORT | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE SURVEYS | KAP SURVEYS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | URBAN POPULATION | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | FAMILY PLANNING ACCEPTOR CHARACTERISTICS | CONTRACEPTION TERMINATION | CONTRACEPTION CONTINUATION | DECISION MAKING | ACCEPTANCE PROCESS | MOTIVATION | Central America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Evaluation | Studies | Research Methodology | Family Planning Surveys | Family Planning | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Contraception | Family Planning Acceptors | Family Planning Programs | Behavior | Psychological Factors Document Number: 328576 |
| 16. Title: Factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding at 3 months postpartum in Valdivia, Chile. Author: Barria RM; Santander G; Victoriano T Source: Journal of Human Lactation. 2008 Nov;24(4):439-45. Abstract: A prospective cohort study was conducted in 315 mother-newborn dyads from Valdivia, Chile. A questionnaire was administered to mothers before 48 hours postpartum, and sociodemographic, obstetric, and neonatal data were collected. At 3 months postpartum, a follow-up by telephone interview or home visit was made, determining the proportion of mothers providing exclusive breastfeeding. Multivariate logistic regression was carried out to identify variables significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding. Follow-up data showed 98.1% were breastfeeding, and exclusive breastfeeding reached 69.5%. Withdrawal of exclusive breastfeeding was positively associated with single marital status (odds ratio, 2.49; 95% confidence interval: 1.48-4.20) and smoking during pregnancy (odds ratio, 2.61; 95% confidence interval: 1.48-4.60), while maternal education greater than 8 years was associated with continuation of exclusive breastfeeding (odds ratio, 0.45; 95% confidence interval: 0.24-0.84). Breastfeeding education strategies addressed to high-risk pregnant women (single with a low education level) must be emphasized in addition to prevention of nonhealthy habits, such as tobacco and alcohol consumption during gestation. Language: English Keywords: CHILE | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | COHORT ANALYSIS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | POSTPARTUM WOMEN | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | BREASTFEEDING, EXCLUSIVE | MARITAL STATUS | TOBACCO USE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | HEALTH EDUCATION | Developing Countries | South America, Southern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Puerperium | Reproduction | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Breastfeeding | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Education Document Number: 329186 |
| 17. Peer Reviewed Title: Male partner involvement and assistance in female condom use. Author: Beksinska M; Smit J; Mabude Z; Vijayakumar G; Linda J Source: European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care. 2008 Dec;13(4):400-3. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To investigate how males assist their partners in using the female condom. METHODS: A multi-site, randomized, cross-over trial was conducted to test the performance and acceptability of the Reality female condom compared to a prototype similar in design and appearance but made of synthetic latex (FC2). In this study women were asked about male partner assistance in FC use. RESULTS: Partner assistance in FC use was similar across FC type. Of the women who returned for the first follow-up visit (n = 233), just over a third (35.2%) reported that the male partner assisted in the insertion compared to 26.4% of the 201 women who returned for the second visit. In most cases where the partner assisted, the device was inserted using the inner ring, as recommended in the instructions for use. A small number (6%) mentioned that partners assisted in removal. CONCLUSION: Men have a role to play in the use of the female condom and are willing to assist their partners in using it. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | SEXUAL PARTNERS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MEN'S INVOLVEMENT | CONDOM USE | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | FEMALE CONDOMS | MALE ROLE | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | Risk Reduction Behavior | Interpersonal Relations | Vaginal Barrier Methods | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Social Behavior Document Number: 331099 |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: Sexual prevention of HIV within the couple after prenatal HIV-testing in West Africa. Author: Brou H; Djohan G; Becquet R; Allou G Source: AIDS Care. 2008 Apr;20(4):413-418. Abstract: The resumption of sexual activity after delivery is a key moment in the management of the risk of sexual HIV transmission within the couple for women who have been prenatally tested for HIV. In this study, we have investigated consistent condom use during the resumption of sexual activity and its evolution over time among women tested for HIV infection during pregnancy. We tested for HIV during pregnancy 546 HIV-infected and 393 HIV-negative women within the Ditrame Plus ANRS project in Abidjan; these women were followed-up for two years after delivery. Most HIV-negative women (96.7%) disclosed their HIV-test result to their partners, where as only 45.6% of HIV-infected women did so (p less than 0.001). Partners of HIV-infected women were more likely to be tested for HIV before resuming sexual activity than partners of HIV-negative women (11.7% vs. 7.4%, p = 0.054). Less than one third of both HIV-infected and HIV-negative women reported having systematically used condoms during the resumption of sexual activity. The proportions of HIV-infected and HIV-negative women having consistently used condoms were respectively 26.2% and 19.8% (p = 0.193) at 3 months post-partum, 12.1% and 15.9% (p = 0.139) at 12 months post-partum, and 8.4% and 10.6% (p = 0.302) at 18 months post-partum. In our study, although women had been prenatally tested for HIV and properly counselled on the sexual risk of HIV transmission, male partners were not tested for HIV before the resumption of sexual activity after delivery, very few couples were using condoms systematically and condom use was decreasing over time. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, WESTERN | COTE D'IVOIRE | RESEARCH REPORT | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | POSTPARTUM WOMEN | COUPLES | HIV PREVENTION | PREVENTION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | CONDOM USE | SEX BEHAVIOR | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Puerperium | Reproduction | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Disease Transmission Control | Prevention and Control | HIV Testing | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Risk Reduction Behavior | Behavior Document Number: 326546 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: Long-term follow-up study on peer-led school-based HIV/AIDS prevention among youths in Shanghai. Author: Cai Y; Hong H; Shi R; Ye X; Xu G; Li S; Shen L Source: International Journal of STD and AIDS. 2008 Dec;19(12):848-850. Abstract: To determine both the short- and long-term effects of a peer education program, the authors conducted a follow-up study to evaluate the related knowledge, attitudes, and intended behavior related to HIV/AIDS among senior high-school students in Shanghai, China. They selected 1,950 students from 10 senior high schools, from whom 968 students were selected at random for the intervention group and 982 students for the control group. The same questionnaires were given to both groups before the intervention, one month after, and one year later. In the intervention group, the knowledge score on reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, and sexually transmitted infection rose from 21.66 to 31.72 one month later. After one year it was still 30.97. After both the one month and one-year follow-up intervention, the authors also found that more students declared that they would use condoms during sexual intercourse than did students in the control group. No change was seen in either knowledge or behavior intention in the control group. These results showed that peer education on HIV/AIDS prevention among high-school students is both effective in promoting knowledge and in changing behavior intention over the long term. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | CASE CONTROL STUDIES | PEER EDUCATORS | ADOLESCENTS | HIV PREVENTION | LONGTERM EFFECTS | SCHOOL-BASED SERVICES | KNOWLEDGE | ATTITUDES | SEX BEHAVIOR | CONDOM USE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Education | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Time Factors | Population Dynamics | Programs | Organization and Administration | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Risk Reduction Behavior Document Number: 328802 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: Duration of protection against malaria and anaemia provided by intermittent preventive treatment in infants in Navrongo, Ghana. Author: Cairns M; Carneiro I; Milligan P; Owusu-Agyei S; Awine T Source: PLoS One. 2008 May;3(5):e2227. Abstract: Intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in Infants (IPTi) has been shown to give effective and safe protection against malaria. It has been suggested that IPTi might have long-lasting beneficial effects but, in most settings, the protection provided by IPTi appears to be short-lived. Knowledge of the duration of protection given by IPTi would help interpret the results of existing trials and suggest optimal delivery schedules for IPTi. This study investigated how the protective efficacy of IPTi against malaria and anaemia changes over time. A secondary analysis of data from a cluster-randomised, placebo-controlled trial of IPTi using sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) in Ghana was conducted. In this trial IPTi was given to 2485 infants at 3, 4, 9 and 12 months of age; children remained in follow-up until two years of age. Poisson regression with a random effect to adjust for the cluster-randomised design was used to determine protective efficacy of IPTi against clinical malaria and anaemia in defined time strata following administration of IPTi. Analysis of first-or-only clinical malaria episode following the individual IPTi doses showed that some protection against malaria lasted between 4 to 6 weeks. A similar pattern was seen when the incidence of all malaria episodes up to 2 years of age was analysed in relation to the most recent IPT, by pooling the incidence of malaria after the individual IPTi doses. Protective efficacy within four weeks of IPTi was 75.2% (95% CI: 66-82) against malaria, 78.9% (95% CI: 69-86) against high parasite density malaria, and 93.8% (95% CI: 73-99) against anaemia. Protection against these outcomes was short-lived, with evidence of any effect lasting for only 6, 6 and 4 weeks respectively. Protection in children who were parasitaemic when receiving IPTi appeared to be of shorter duration than in uninfected children. There was no evidence of any benefit of IPTi after the immediate period following the IPTi doses. Intermittent preventive treatment provides considerable protection against malaria and anaemia for short periods, even in an area of intense seasonal transmission. Due to the relatively short duration of protection provided by each dose of IPTi, this treatment will be of most benefit when delivered at the time of peak malaria incidence. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GHANA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | INFANT | TIME FACTORS | MALARIA PREVENTION | ANEMIA | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Studies | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Dynamics | Malaria | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 326965 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: The efficacy of female condom skills training in HIV risk reduction among women: a randomized controlled trial. Author: Choi KH; Hoff C; Gregorich SE; Grinstead O; Gomez C; Hussey W Source: American Journal of Public Health. 2008 Oct;98(10):1841-8. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: We evaluated the efficacy of skills training designed to increase female condom use among women. METHODS: We conducted a randomized controlled trial of 409 women, recruited from family planning clinics in northern California, who were randomly assigned to the experimental 4-session female condom skills training intervention or the comparison 4-session women's general health promotion intervention. Participants received condom use instructions at baseline and male and female condoms during the study. They completed audio computer-assisted self-interviews at baseline and at 3 and 6 months. RESULTS: At 3 and 6 months, women in the experimental group were more likely than those in the comparison group to have used the female condom at least once in the prior 3 months. The increase in the percentage of sexual acts protected by female condoms from baseline to the 6-month follow-up was greater for the experimental group. The percentage of sexual acts during which any condom was employed was higher in the experimental group at 6 months. There were no group differences in male condom use. CONCLUSIONS: Outcomes suggest that skills training can increase female condom use and protected sexual acts without reducing male condom use among women. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | FEMALE CONDOMS | HIV INFECTIONS | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | LOGISTIC MODEL | SAFER SEX | SEXUAL PARTNERS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Vaginal Barrier Methods | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Behavior | Studies | Research Methodology | Mathematical Model | Theoretical Models | Sex Behavior Document Number: 328525 |
| 22. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender role beliefs and family migration. Author: Cooke TJ Source: Population, Space and Place. 2008 May-Jun;14(3):163-175. Abstract: Consistent empirical evidence demonstrates that demographic indicators associated with traditional gender roles, such as the presence of children, are linked to the negative effect of moving on married women's employment and earnings. However, very few studies have directly examined how gender role beliefs are related to family migration behaviour. This analysis demonstrates that when a couple shares egalitarian gender role beliefs, the family has a lower probability of moving when the wife is employed and has a higher probability of moving when the wife is unemployed and wants to work. Among couples that do not share traditional gender role beliefs, migration appears to be unaffected by the employment status of the wife. This study is one of the few which clearly demonstrates that family migration is contingent on the gender role beliefs of husbands and wives. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | COUPLES | INTERNAL MIGRATION | FEMALE ROLE | MALE ROLE | GENDER ISSUES | OCCUPATIONAL STATUS | EMPLOYMENT STATUS | SEX FACTORS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Behavior | Behavior | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics Document Number: 326579 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Pregnancy after caesarean section: Fewer or later? Author: Eijsink JJ; van der Leeuw-Harmsen L; van der Linden PJ Source: Human Reproduction. 2008;23(3):543-547. Abstract: It is unclear whether having a Caesarean section results in fewer subsequent pregnancies with longer intervals between pregnancies, an effect which may impact on the reproductive performance of a population. Our aim was to determine the implications of a Caesarean section on the subsequent fecundity and interpregnancy interval. This is a cohort study. The obstetric follow-up of primiparous women who delivered by a Caesarean section of a singleton infant in breech presentation is compared with the follow-up of women who delivered vaginally of a singleton infant after a physiological, uncomplicated pregnancy. A total of 279 women delivered a singleton infant in breech presentation at term. From these women, 165 (59.1%) had a Caesarean section. In this group, 131 (79.4%) women had a subsequent pregnancy. In the reference group of 268 women who delivered vaginally, 208 (77.6%) became pregnant again. The median interval between birth of the first child and the beginning of the next pregnancy was 20 months for the Caesarean section group and 18 months for the reference group. No significant difference in interpregnancy interval between the different groups was found. Women who delivered by Caesarean section at term in their first pregnancy do not have fewer second pregnancies compared with women who delivered vaginally. The interpregnancy interval between first and second pregnancy was not prolonged. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NETHERLANDS | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | CLINICAL RESEARCH | WOMEN | CESAREAN SECTION | PREGNANCY INTERVALS | FECUNDITY | PREGNANCY RATE | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Research Methodology | Studies | Demographic Factors | Population | Obstetrical Surgery | Surgery | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Reproduction Document Number: 324960 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Self pregnancy testing in an urban family planning clinic: promising results for a new approach to contraceptive follow-up. Author: Estes CM; Ramierez J; Tiezzi L; Westhoff C Source: Contraception. 2008 Jan;77(1):40-43. Abstract: Immediate initiation of depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) increases continuation and decreases pregnancies compared to conventional (next menstrual period) initiation. A drawback is the need to return in 4 weeks for a repeat pregnancy test to identify any pregnancy that was too early to diagnose on the day of injection. If women can performhome pregnancy tests (HPTs) to detect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine, the need for this follow-up visit may be eliminated. This study assesses whether women can perform their own HPT. This is a single-visit observational trial of an HPT kit. Subjects recruited from a waiting room in an urban family planning clinic received an HPT kit with standard instructions to use immediately. Subjects and a research assistant each interpreted the test. Their results were then compared to a standard cassette type test for detection of hCG performed by clinic staff. k was calculated to assess the level of agreement. Three hundred ten subjects enrolled. They were young (mean age, 25.2 years), mostly Hispanic (91%) women. A change in the font and explicitness of the instructions decreased the incidence of invalid tests from 12.7% to 4.8%. The subject and research assistant's interpretation of the test had a high level of agreement, k = 0.95 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.92-0.99]. There was also a high level of agreement between the subjects' results and the standard test, k = 0.88 (95% CI, 0.82-0.95). Women presenting for pregnancy testing at an urban clinic are able to perform HPTs with a high level of accuracy. The appearance of the instructions influenced the incidence of false-negative and invalid tests. Home pregnancy tests may be useful in follow-up protocols when immediate initiation of DMPA is employed. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | URBAN AREAS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | PREGNANCY TESTS | CONTRACEPTION | DEPO-PROVERA | FAMILY PLANNING CENTERS | HOME CARE | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Geographic Factors | Population | Studies | Research Methodology | Laboratory Procedures | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Family Planning | Medroxyprogesterone Acetate | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Health Facilities | Care and Support Document Number: 323057 |
| 25. Title: The political context of AIDS-related stigma and knowledge in a South African township community. Author: Forsyth B; Vandormael A; Kershaw T; Grobbelaar J Source: SAHARA J. 2008 Jul;5(2):74-82. Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the presentation of AIDS-related stigma and knowledge within the political context of the South African government's response to the AIDS epidemic. It was during the 2000 - 2004 period that key government officials publicly challenged the orthodox views of HIV/AIDS, with the South African president, Thabo Mbeki, actively positing the primary role of poverty and other socio-economic stressors in the progression of the AIDS epidemic. This discursive position had real-time effects for AIDS policy-making and ultimately delayed the implementation of a national antiretroviral (ARV) rollout programme. Consequently this position was criticised by commentators in the media and elsewhere for contributing to an already widespread climate of AIDS stigmatization and misinformation. To shed more light on these claims we conducted a survey in 2005 in Atteridgeville, a South African township, and compared results with those of a similar survey conducted shortly after ARV medications became available in 2004. Results indicated a reduction in AIDS stigma levels across the 1-year period, and that those participants who endorsed contentious political views (such as those expressed by key government officials) were more likely to have a higher level of AIDS-related stigma than those who disagreed. Nevertheless, this study cautions against drawing a causal relationship between the South African government's position and IDS-stigmatizing attitudes, and suggests that further political and social factors be accounted for in an attempt to gain a fuller understanding of this seemingly complex relationship. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS | GOVERNMENT | STIGMA | AIDS | POLITICAL SYSTEMS | KNOWLEDGE | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | HEALTH POLICY | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | POVERTY | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Problems | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Programs | Policy | Economic Factors | HIV Document Number: 329227 |
| 26. Title: Reducing sexual risk with practice of periodic secondary abstinence. Author: Haglund K Source: Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing. 2008 Nov-Dec;37(6):647-56. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Test a novel intervention to help sexually experienced girls increase abstinence behaviors and attitudes. DESIGN: A quasi-experimental repeated measures design using qualitative and quantitative data. SETTING: Two alternative public schools. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-three females whose mean age was 16 and who were 79% African American participated. Most (79%) had experienced a pregnancy. INTERVENTION: A 6 session, weekly, interactive intervention was delivered. Data were collected at baseline, last session, and at 5 and 7 month follow-ups. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Measured outcomes related to abstinence included participants' reasons, behaviors, stages of change, and attitudes. RESULTS: The most common reason for abstinence was not wanting to have sex. At each postintervention data collection point, most participants (greater than or equal to 74%) reported that they had purposefully avoided sex. Duration of consecutive days of abstinence increased although only significantly at 5 month follow-up. Abstinence behaviors increased with the largest change from first to last session. Stage of change advanced from preparation to action by 7 month follow-up. Attitudes toward abstinence became more favorable. CONCLUSION: Effective sexual risk reduction interventions are critically needed to promote safety. Nurses may assist young women to decrease their sexual risks by teaching them to practice periodic abstinence. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | BLACKS | WOMEN | ABSTINENCE | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PREVENTION | PROGRAM EVALUATION | MOTIVATION | ATTITUDES | TIME FACTORS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Ethnic Groups | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Planning, Behavioral Methods | Family Planning | Behavior | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration | Psychological Factors | Population Dynamics Document Number: 330265 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Measuring effectiveness in community randomized trials of HIV prevention. Author: Hallett TB; Garnett GP; Mupamberiyi Z; Gregson S Source: International Journal of Epidemiology. 2008 Feb;37(1):77-87. Abstract: Complicated HIV transmission dynamics make it unclear how to design and interpret results from community-randomized controlled trials (CRCT) of interventions to prevent infection. Mathematical modelling was used to investigate the effectiveness of interventions to prevent HIV transmission aimed at high-risk groups and factors related to the chance of recording a statistically significant result. Behaviour change by high-risk groups can substantially reduce HIV incidence in the whole population, although its effect is sensitive to the structure of the sexual network and the phase of the epidemic. There is a delay between the behaviour change happening and its full effect being realized in the low-risk group and this can pull the measured incidence rate ratio towards one and reduce the chance of recording a statistically significant result in a CRCT. Our simulations suggest that only with unrealistically favourable study conditions would a statistically significant result be likely with 5 years follow-up or less. Small differences in the epidemiological parameters between communities can lead to misleading incidence rate ratios. Behaviour change independent of the intervention can increase the epidemiological impact of the intervention and the chance of recording a statistically significant result. HIV prevention interventions, especially those targeted at high-risk groups may take longer to work at the population level and need more follow-up time in a CRCT to generate statistically significant results. Mathematical modelling can be used in the design and analysis of CRCTs to understand how the impact of the intervention could develop and the implications this has for statistical power. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ZIMBABWE | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | CLINICAL TRIALS | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | EVALUATION RESEARCH | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | COMMUNITY | SOCIAL NETWORKS | HIV PREVENTION | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | PREVALENCE | ERROR SOURCES | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Studies | Evaluation Methodology | Evaluation | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Behavior | Measurement Document Number: 324314 |
| 28. Peer Reviewed Title: Understanding the impact of male circumcision interventions on the spread of HIV in southern Africa. Author: Hallett TB; Singh K; Smith JA; White RG; Abu-Raddad LJ Source: PLoS One. 2008 May;3(5):e2212. Abstract: Three randomised controlled trials have clearly shown that circumcision of adult men reduces the chance that they acquire HIV infection. However, the potential impact of circumcision programmes - either alone or in combination with other established approaches - is not known and no further field trials are planned. We have used a mathematical model, parameterised using existing trial findings, to understand and predict the impact of circumcision programmes at the population level. Our results indicate that circumcision will lead to reductions in incidence for women and uncircumcised men, as well as those circumcised, but that even the most effective intervention is unlikely to completely stem the spread of the virus. Without additional interventions, HIV incidence could eventually be reduced by 25-35%, depending on the level of coverage achieved and whether onward transmission from circumcised men is also reduced. However, circumcision interventions can act synergistically with other types of prevention programmes, and if efforts to change behaviour are increased in parallel with the scale-up of circumcision services, then dramatic reductions in HIV incidence could be achieved. In the long-term, this could lead to reduced AIDS deaths and less need for anti-retroviral therapy. Any increases in risk behaviours following circumcision , i.e. 'risk compensation', could offset some of the potential benefit of the intervention, especially for women, but only very large increases would lead to more infections overall. Circumcision will not be the silver bullet to prevent HIV transmission, but interventions could help to substantially protect men and women from infection, especially in combination with other approaches. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SOUTHERN | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | MEN | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MALE CIRCUMCISION | HIV PREVENTION | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Clinical Research | Theoretical Models | Demographic Factors | Population | |