1.  Title: Voluntary population planning activities -- supplemental requirements (January 2009) [letter] Author: United States. Agency for International Development [USAID]. Bureau for Management. Office of Acquisition and Assistance Source: Washington, D.C., USAID, Bureau for Management, Office of Acquisition and Assistance, 2009 Jan 26. [5] p. Abstract: The purpose of this letter is to amend the Standard provisions of all grants and cooperative agreements involving any aspect of voluntary population planning activities and which contain the provision VOLUNTARY POPULATION PLANNING ACTIVITIES - SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS (May 2006). This provision is deleted and replaced by the new provision VOLUNTARY POPULATION PLANNING ACTIVITIES - SUPPLEMENTAL REQUIREMENTS (January 2009) which removes the conditions relating to the Mexico City Policy that were set forth in the May 2006 version of the provision. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | GOVERNMENT PUBLICATION | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | POLICYMAKERS | USAID | STANDARDIZATION | GRANTS | POPULATION POLICY | FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAM EVALUATION | INCENTIVES | FAMILY PLANNING POLICY | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS | ABORTION LAW | STERILIZATION, SEXUAL | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Social Policy | Policy | Family Planning Programs | Family Planning | Contraception | Fertility Control, Postconception Document Number: 331346 Notification |
2.  Peer Reviewed Title: Low levels of antiretroviral-resistant HIV infection in a routine clinic in Cameroon that uses the World Health Organization (WHO) public health approach to monitor antiretroviral treatment and adequacy with the WHO recommendation for second-line treatment. Author: Kouanfack C; Montavon C; Laurent C; Aghokeng A; Kenfack A; Bourgeois A; Koulla-Shiro S; Mpoudi-Ngole E; Peeters M; Delaporte E Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2009 May 1;48(9):1318-22. Abstract: A cross-sectional study, performed at a routine human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS clinic in Cameroon that uses the World Health Organization public health approach, showed low rates of virological failure and drug resistance at 12 and 24 months after initiation of antiretroviral therapy. Importantly, the cross-sectional study also showed that the World Health Organization recommendation for second-line treatment would be effective in almost all patients with HIV drug resistance mutations. Language: English Keywords: CAMEROON | RESEARCH REPORT | SUMMARY REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | PREVALENCE | DRUG RESISTANCE | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | HIV INFECTIONS | WHO | MONITORING | STANDARDIZATION | CHROMOSOME ABNORMALITIES | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | HIV | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Evaluation | Data Adjustment | Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities Document Number: 341154 |
| 3. Title: The Tanzania experience: clinical laboratory testing harmonization and equipment standardization at different levels of a tiered health laboratory system. Author: Massambu C; Mwangi C Source: American Journal of Clinical Pathology. 2009 Jun;131(6):861-6. Abstract: The rapid scale-up of the care and treatment programs in Tanzania during the preceding 4 years has greatly increased the demand for quality laboratory services for diagnosis of HIV and monitoring patients during antiretroviral therapy. Laboratory services were not in a position to cope with this demand owing to poor infrastructure, lack of human resources, erratic and/or lack of reagent supply and commodities, and slow manual technologies. With the limited human resources in the laboratory and the need for scaling up the care and treatment program, it became necessary to install automated equipment and train personnel for the increased volume of testing and new tests across all laboratory levels. With the numerous partners procuring equipment, the possibility of a multitude of equipment platforms with attendant challenges for procurement of reagents, maintenance of equipment, and quality assurance arose. Tanzania, therefore, had to harmonize laboratory tests and standardize laboratory equipment at different levels of the laboratory network. The process of harmonization of tests and standardization of equipment included assessment of laboratories, review of guidelines, development of a national laboratory operational plan, and stakeholder advocacy. This document outlines this process. Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | CRITIQUE | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | LABORATORY | PROGRAM EVALUATION | PLANNING | EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | TESTING | STANDARDIZATION | LOGISTICS | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Viral Diseases | Diseases | HIV | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Examinations and Diagnoses | Measurement | Research Methodology | Data Adjustment | Management Document Number: 341767 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: Trials for development of once-a-month injectable, hormonal male contraceptive using dienogest plus testosterone undecanoate: dose standardization, efficacy and reversibility studies in rats. Author: Misro MM; Chaki SP; Kaushik MC; Nandan D Source: Contraception. 2009 Jun;79(6):488-97. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The study was conducted to test the potential of using dienogest (DNG) plus testosterone undecanoate (TU) in rats for development of a once-a-month injectable male hormonal contraceptive. STUDY DESIGN: Dose selection studies were initiated with administration of DNG in three different doses of 20, 30 and 40 mg/kg body weight (bw) per week plus TU 25 mg/kg bw once in every 6 weeks. Status of spermatogenesis and sperm count in epididymis was evaluated. The frequency of DNG intervention was later extended to every 2- and 4-week intervals. Mating studies, toxicity and reversibility of spermatogenesis following stoppage of treatment were carried out with DNG 40 mg/kg bw at 4-week intervals. RESULTS: Complete arrest of spermatogenesis was observed after 60 days of treatment at all doses of DNG (20, 30 and 40 mg/kg bw per week)+TU. However, weights of testis and accessory sex organs (epididymis, prostate and seminal vesicle) declined significantly 60 days post treatment compared to vehicle-treated controls. Epididymis in the treated animals was completely devoid of sperm. When the frequency of DNG injection (20 mg/kg bw) was extended to once every 15 days, a few immotile and decapitated sperm were observed in the epididymis. With TU treatment unchanged, animals receiving DNG (40 mg/kg bw) once either every 2- or 4-week intervals demonstrated good and uniform arrest of spermatogenesis. DNG 40 mg/kg per 4 weeks+TU also demonstrated a significant rise in germ cell apoptosis in the seminiferous epithelium. There was no significant increase in the serum high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein levels at the end of 120 days of treatment. Following withdrawal of treatment after 60 or 120 days, qualitative restoration of spermatogenesis was rapid in the former compared to the latter. CONCLUSION: Dienogest plus TU has the potential for development as a monthly injectable showing reversible hormonal male contraception with good efficacy. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | LABORATORY ANIMALS | MEN | INJECTABLES | TESTOSTERONE | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | STANDARDIZATION | REVERSIBLE STERILIZATION | MALE CONTRACEPTION | BODY WEIGHT | TIME FACTORS | SPERMICIDAL CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Androgens | Hormones | Endocrine System | Physiology | Biology | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Data Adjustment | Sterilization, Sexual | Population Dynamics | Contraceptive Agents Document Number: 341101 |
| 5. Title: Burden of neonatal infections in developing countries: a review of evidence from community-based studies. Author: Thaver D; Zaidi AK Source: Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. 2009 Jan;28(1 Suppl):S3-9. Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Infections are a major contributor to newborn deaths in developing countries. Majority of these deaths occur at home without coming to medical attention. The Millennium Development Goal for child survival cannot be achieved without substantial reductions in infection-specific neonatal mortality. We describe the burden of neonatal infections in developing countries and discuss the need for community-based management approaches to improve survival from neonatal infections in these countries. METHODS: We reviewed community-based studies published since 1990 from developing countries to estimate the rates of neonatal and young infant infections and infection-specific neonatal mortality. RESULTS: Thirty-two studies reviewed suggest that infections may be responsible for 8% to 80% of all neonatal deaths and as many as 42% of deaths in the first week of life. Eleven reports provided data on incidence of infections in neonates and infants up to 60 days of life. Rates of neonatal sepsis were as high as 170/1000 live births (clinically diagnosed) and 5.5/1000 live births (blood culture-confirmed). CONCLUSIONS: Considerable heterogeneity exists among included studies, and more accurate data and standardized methodologies are required. However, data indicate that a significant proportion of neonatal deaths in developing countries are due to infections. Current recommendations of hospitalization and parenteral therapy for managing neonatal infections are inadequately followed in developing countries. Approaches for detecting and managing serious infections within the community, at home or first-level health facilities, may be more effective options in settings where delays and reluctance to seek care, health system inefficiencies, socioeconomic and cultural, as well as logistic constraints exist. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | LITERATURE REVIEW | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | STUDY DESIGN | COMMUNITY | INFANT | NEONATAL DISEASES AND ABNORMALITIES | INFECTIONS | NEONATAL MORTALITY | PREVALENCE | CAUSES OF DEATH | STANDARDIZATION | Research Methodology | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Diseases | Infant Mortality | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Measurement | Data Adjustment Document Number: 330050 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Outcome of severely malnourished children treated according to UNICEF 2004 guidelines: a one-year experience in a zone hospital in rural Ethiopia. Author: Berti A; Bregani ER; Manenti F; Pizzi C Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2008 Sep;102(9):939-44. Abstract: Malnutrition still has a dramatic impact on childhood mortality in sub-Saharan African countries. Very few studies have tried to evaluate the outcome of severely malnourished children treated according to the UNICEF 2004 guidelines and reported fatality rates are still very high. During 2006, 1635 children were admitted to the paediatric ward of St. Luke Catholic Hospital in Wolisso, South West Shewa, Ethiopia. Four hundred and ninety-three (30.15%) were severely malnourished and were enrolled in the study. We reviewed the registration books and inpatient charts to analyze their outcome. A mortality rate of 7.1% was found, which is significantly lower than reported in the literature. 28.6% of deaths occurred within 48 h of admission; the recovery rate was 88.4%; the drop-out rate was 4.5%. Early deaths were due to the poor condition of the children on admission, leading to failure of treatment. Late mortality was considered to be related to electrolyte imbalances, which we were unable to measure. The clinical skills of nursing and medical staff were considered an important factor in improving the outcome of malnourished patients. We found that proper implementation of WHO guidelines for the hospital treatment of severely malnourished children can lead to a relatively low mortality rate, especially when good clinical monitoring is assured. Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CHILDREN | RURAL POPULATION | MALNUTRITION | CHILD NUTRITION | UNICEF | NUTRITION PROGRAMS | STANDARDIZATION | DEATH RATE | TIME FACTORS | ELECTROLYTE BALANCE | CAUSES OF DEATH | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Nutrition | Health | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Data Adjustment | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Homeostasis | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 329253 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Short-term acceptability of a single-size diaphragm among couples in South Africa and Thailand. Author: Coffey PS; Kilbourne-Brook M; Beksinska M; Thongkrajai E Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2008 Oct;34(4):233-6. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The SILCS diaphragm is a new, reusable, single-size cervical barrier device that is designed to offer the same barrier protection as a standard diaphragm with improved user acceptability. METHODS: This non-randomised, non-blinded, non-significant risk, multi-site pilot study assessed the short-term acceptability of the SILCS diaphragm among women with no previous diaphragm experience. Sites in South Africa and Thailand recruited couples not at risk of pregnancy and at low risk of sexually transmitted infections. Couples used the SILCS diaphragm four times and provided feedback on the ease of handling, comfort, and sensation during sex. Data were collected via detailed product-use questionnaires, simple coital logs and gender-specific debriefing interviews. RESULTS: A total of 41 couples completed the study, providing data from 164 product uses. The SILCS device fits women representing a range of diaphragm sizes, parity and body mass index. Women from both sites reported that the SILCS diaphragm was easy to use and provided good comfort and sensation in over 80% of all product uses. Men from both sites reported good comfort and sensation in over 60% of all product uses. CONCLUSION: The SILCS diaphragm appears to be acceptable to women and men in low-resource settings. These data suggest that the SILCS design should be tested in broader populations to assess effectiveness and acceptability. Language: English Keywords: THAILAND | SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | KAP SURVEYS | PILOT PROJECTS | FORMATIVE RESEARCH | COUPLES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | VAGINAL DIAPHRAGM | STANDARDIZATION | SATISFACTION | BODY WEIGHT | SEX FACTORS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Vaginal Barrier Methods | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Data Adjustment | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Physiology | Biology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 329392 |
| 8. Title: Infant feeding and HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: what lies beneath the dilemma? Author: Fletcher FE; Ndebele P; Kelley MC Source: Theoretical Medicine and Bioethics. 2008;29(5):307-30. Abstract: The debate over how to best guide HIV-infected mothers in resource-poor settings on infant feeding is more than two decades old. Globally, breastfeeding is responsible for approximately 300,000 HIV infections per year, while at the same time, UNICEF estimates that not breastfeeding (formula feeding with contaminated water) is responsible for 1.5 million child deaths per year. The largest burden of these infections and deaths occur in Sub-Saharan Africa. Using this region as an example of the burden faced more generally in other resource-poor settings, we contrast the evolution of the clinical standard of care for infant feeding with HIV-infected mothers in high-income countries to the current international clinical guidelines for HIV-infected mothers and infant feeding in resource-poor settings. While the international guidelines of exclusive breastfeeding for a 6-month period seem to offer the least-worst strategy for reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV during infancy while conferring some immunity through breastfeeding post-6 months, we argue that the impact of the policy on mothers and healthcare workers on the ground is not well understood. The harm reduction approach on the level of health policy translates into a complicated, painful moral dilemma for HIV-positive mothers and those offering them guidance on infant feeding. We argue that the underlying socio-economic disparities that continue to fuel the need for a harm reduction policy on infant feeding and the harm to women and children justify: (1) that higher priority be given to solving the infant feeding dilemma with improved data on safe feeding alternatives, and (2) support of innovative, community-driven solutions that address the particular economic and cultural challenges that continue to result in HIV-transmission to children within these communities. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | INFANT | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | MOTHERS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | BREASTFEEDING | INFANT NUTRITION | HIV PREVENTION | PREVENTION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | STANDARDIZATION | HEALTH POLICY | TIME FACTORS | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Nutrition | Health | Disease Transmission Control | Prevention and Control | Data Adjustment | Policy | Political Factors | Population Dynamics Document Number: 331108 |
| 9. Peer Reviewed Title: Adapting the DOTS framework for tuberculosis control to the management of non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. Author: Harries AD; Jahn A; Zachariah R; Enarson D Source: PLoS Medicine. 2008 Jun;5(6):e124. Abstract: In sub-Saharan Africa, management standards for NCDs in public health services are poor. With the growing burden of NCDs, now is the time to develop and implement standardised NCD management protocols and systems for diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and reporting. DOTS has been the framework for tuberculosis control for over a decade, allowing structured and well monitored services to be delivered to millions of tuberculosis patients in some of the poorest countries of the world. The DOTS model has been successfully adapted for the scale-up of ART in Malawi, allowing long-term, structured treatment to be given to thousands of patients. This paper discusses why the DOTS paradigm should be adapted for NCDs, and, with the "DOTS five-point policy package" as a template, shows how this could be implemented and rolled out in resource-poor countries, with special reference to sub-Saharan Africa. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | TARGET POPULATION | TUBERCULOSIS | COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL | ANTIBIOTICS | STANDARDIZATION | TREATMENT | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | PUBLIC HEALTH | HEALTH POLICY | DISEASE TRANSMISSION CONTROL | Developing Countries | Africa | Program Design | Programs | Organization and Administration | Infections | Diseases | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Drugs | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | HIV | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Prevention and Control Document Number: 327410 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Criteria for clinical audit of women friendly care and providers' perception in Malawi. Author: Kongnyuy EJ; van den Broek N Source: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 2008 Jul 22;8(28):[15] p. Abstract: There are two dimensions of quality of maternity care, namely quality of health outcomes and quality as perceived by clients. The feasibility of using clinical audit to assess and improve the quality of maternity care as perceived by women was studied in Malawi. We sought to (a) establish standards for women friendly care and (b) explore attitudinal barriers which could impede the proper implementation of clinical audit. We used evidence from Malawi national guidelines and World Health Organisation manuals to establish local standards for women friendly care in three districts. We equally conducted a survey of health care providers to explore their attitudes towards criterion based audit. The standards addressed different aspects of care given to women in maternity units, namely (i) reception, (ii) attitudes towards women, (iii) respect for culture, (iv) respect for women, (v) waiting time, (vi) enabling environment, (vii) provision of information, (viii) individualised care, (ix) provision of skilled attendance at birth and emergency obstetric care, (x) confidentiality, and (xi) proper management of patient information. The health providers in Malawi generally held a favourable attitude towards clinical audit: 100.0% (54/54) agreed that criterion based audit will improve the quality of care and 92.6% believed that clinical audit is a good educational tool. However, there are concerns that criterion based audit would create a feeling of blame among providers (35.2%), and that manager would use clinical audit to identify and punish providers who fail to meet standards (27.8%). Developing standards of maternity care that are acceptable to, and valued by, women requires consideration of both the research evidence and cultural values. Clinical audit is acceptable to health professionals in Malawi although there are concerns about its negative implications to the providers. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MALAWI | RESEARCH REPORT | MATERNAL HEALTH SERVICES | MATERNAL HEALTH | WOMEN'S HEALTH | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | STANDARDIZATION | HEALTH PERSONNEL | ATTITUDES | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | QUALITY CONTROL | BEST PRACTICES | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Health | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 327822 |
| 11. Title: Utility of Indian adaptation of Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) algorithm. Author: Kundra S; Singh T; Chhatwal J Source: Indian Journal of Pediatrics. 2008 Aug;75(8):781-5. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the utility of Indian adaptation of IMCI algorithm. METHODS: Children presenting to outpatient department (n=169) or casualty (n=140) among 309 cases were assessed and classified as per IMCI algorithm, the final diagnosis made after detailed evaluation and relevant investigations, served as the gold standard. The diagnostic and therapeutic agreements between the gold standard, IMCI and vertical (on the basis of primary presenting complaint) algorithms were computed. RESULTS: Coexistence of illness was observed in 75% of children as per IMCI algorithm. The mean (SD) number of morbidities as per the Gold standard and IMCI were 1.75 +/- 0.75 and 2.19 +/- 0.96 respectively. The referral criteria proved useful in predicting hospitalisation with high sensitivity and specificity (99.3% & 97.3%). IMCI algorithm covered majority of recorded illnesses. A total agreement with IMCI was found in 88.4% cases, while total disagreement was seen in 34.5% cases. Corresponding figures for vertical program were 88% and 18.6%. The difference was primarily due to underdiagnosis. The diagnostic discordance of IMCI and gold standard was evident for the cough category due to underdiagnosis of bronchial asthma and bronchiolitis and an overdiagnosis of pneumonia. The IMCI algorithm had a provision for preventive services of immunization (24.5% possibility of availing missed opportunity) and feeding advice. CONCLUSIONS: There is a sound scientific basis for adopting the IMCI approach since: (1) Co-existence of morbidities is a rule rather than exception for sick under-five children. (2) The algorithm provides good sensitivity and specificity for assessing severe illness and (3) IMCI algorithm is superior to vertical disease specific programs. It is, however, important to carefully adapt the generic IMCI algorithm to reflect the local morbidity profile. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | THEORETICAL MODELS | CHILDREN | EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | STANDARDIZATION | COMPLICATIONS | VALIDITY | RELIABILITY | STANDARDS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Data Adjustment | Diseases | Measurement Document Number: 329258 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: "I didn't write the questions!" Negotiating telephone-survey questions on birth timing. Author: May M Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jun 17;18(18):499-530. Abstract: This paper examines interviewer-respondent interaction in the collection of demographic data where interviewer and respondents speak the same first language. Conversation analysis (CA), or the analysis of talk in interaction, makes transparent the interaction between an interviewer and 25 respondents on a question about pregnancy and birth timing in an Australian telephone survey, Negotiating the Life Course. The analysis focuses on the troubles that occur and the work that interviewers do to fit respondents' answers to the survey researcher's categories. Interviewers are shown to act as mediators in difficult interaction, with responses often distorted by question format, the imperative of achieving an allowed response, and the need to keep the respondent in the survey. The analysis suggests that conversational resources could be used constructively to ensure a better fit between questions and responses. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AUSTRALIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA COLLECTION | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | QUESTIONNAIRES | INTERVIEWS | RESPONDENTS | PREGNANCY | TIME FACTORS | STANDARDIZATION | Developed Countries | Oceania | Research Methodology | Studies | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Reproduction | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Data Adjustment Document Number: 327325 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: Proposal for the development of a standardized protocol for assessing the economic costs of HIV prevention interventions. Author: Pinkerton SD; Pearson CR; Eachus SR; Berg KM; Grimes RM Source: JAIDS. Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2008 Mar;47 Suppl 1:s10-s14. Abstract: Maximizing our economic investment in HIV prevention requires balancing the costs of candidate interventions against their effects and selecting the most cost-effective interventions for implementation. However, many HIV prevention intervention trials do not collect cost information, and those that do use a variety of cost data collection methods and analysis techniques. Standardized cost data collection procedures, instrumentation, and analysis techniques are needed to facilitate the task of assessing intervention costs and to ensure comparability across intervention trials. This article describes the basic elements of a standardized cost data collection and analysis protocol and outlines a computer-based approach to implementing this protocol. Ultimately, the development of such a protocol would require contributions and "buy-in" from a diverse range of stakeholders, including HIV prevention researchers, cost-effectiveness analysts, community collaborators, public health decision makers, and funding agencies. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | HIV PREVENTION | INTERVENTIONS | COST EFFECTIVENESS | COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS | ECONOMIC FACTORS | STANDARDIZATION | COMPUTER PROGRAMS AND PROGRAMMING | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration | Evaluation Indexes | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Information Processing | Information Document Number: 324172 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: Laboratory reference values for healthy adults from southern Tanzania. Author: Saathoff E; Schneider P; Kleinfeldt V; Geis S; Haule D Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health. 2008 May;13(5):612-625. Abstract: The objectives were to define and discuss reference ranges for commonly determined laboratory parameters in healthy adults from southern Tanzania. A population-based sample of adult volunteers from Mbeya, Tanzania, who were not HIV positive or showing signs and symptoms of other diseases, participated in this study. We enrolled 145 women and 156 men between 19 and 48 years of age to determine clinical chemistry (CC), haematology and lymphocyte immunophenotyping (LIP) parameters using standard laboratory methods. Medians and nonparametric 95% reference ranges for each parameter were determined and compared with reference ranges from the USA, Europe and from other African countries. Agreement with ranges from developed countries was poor: for CC values the average concordance was 80.9% and 86.7% with values from two developed countries. Haematology ranges from the USA classified 86.3% of values correctly, whereas ranges from three different sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) sites classified between 82.5% and94.5% of values correctly. The agreement of LIP reference ranges was 87.5% with values determined in Germany but between 91.7% and 95.8% compared with values determined at other sites in SSA. Clinical reference ranges determined in developed countries are inadequate for use in SSA. Laboratories in this region should either define their own or use values determined under similar conditions. The ranges reported here are more appropriate for use in SSA than ranges determined in developed countries. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SAMPLING STUDIES | ADULTS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | MEASUREMENT | STANDARDIZATION | CLINICAL RESEARCH | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Data Adjustment Document Number: 325234 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: Methodological considerations in implementing the WHO Global Survey for Monitoring Maternal and Perinatal Health. Author: Shah A; Faundes A; Machoki M; Bataglia V; Amokrane F Source: Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2008 Feb;86(2):126-131. Abstract: The objective was to set up a global system for monitoring maternal and perinatal health in 54 countries worldwide. The WHO Global Survey for Monitoring Maternal and Perinatal Health was implemented through a network of health institutions, selected using a stratified multistage cluster sampling design. Focused information on maternal and perinatal health was abstracted from hospital records and entered in a specially developed online data management system. Data were collected over a two- to three-month period in each institution. The project was coordinated by WHO and supported by WHO regional offices and country coordinators in Africa and the Americas. The initial survey was implemented between September 2004 and March 2005 in the African and American regions. A total of 125 institutions in seven African countries and 119 institutions in eight Latin American countries participated. This project has created a technologically simple and scientifically sound system for large-scale data management,which can facilitate programme monitoring in countries. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | PROGRESS REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | WHO | MATERNAL HEALTH | INFANT HEALTH | MONITORING | DATA COLLECTION | STANDARDIZATION | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Child Health | Evaluation | Data Adjustment Document Number: 324331 |
| 16. Title: Improving access to safe abortion care and services in northern Karnataka, India. Author: Pathfinder International Source: Watertown, Massachusetts, Pathfinder International, 2007 Aug. [3] p. Abstract: Pathfinder commissioned a baseline study prior to the implementation of project activities and a midterm assessment after about a year of implementation. The study sought to: Understand the extent to which public- and private-sector medical providers offer abortion services and follow National Government of India standard protocols for abortion services; Understand the extent of community awareness regarding the prevalence of abortion, the importance of seeking an abortion early in pregnancy, methods of abortion, and location of and access to abortion services; and Ascertain the timing and cost of abortion, use of postabortion contraception, and complications due to abortion experienced by women who had recently undergone abortion. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | PROGRESS REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PREGNANT WOMEN | ABORTION | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | STANDARDIZATION | PREVALENCE | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | GESTATIONAL AGE | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Health | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Management | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Measurement | Fetus | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception Document Number: 321286 Notification |
| 17. Peer Reviewed Title: Improving case definitions for severe malaria. Author: Anstey NM; Price RN Source: PLoS Medicine. 2007 Aug;4(8):e267. Abstract: The lack of a "gold standard" definition for severe malaria has been a longstanding problem for both clinicians and researchers. The definitions currently used comprise a set of clinical and laboratory parameters associated with an increased risk of death, combined with the presence of Plasmodium falciparum parasitemia. In young children, these criteria are predominantly altered consciousness, severe anemia, and respiratory distress; a broader range of criteria is applicable to adolescents and adults. While these criteria are sensitive in diagnosing severe malaria, they are also present in other serious illnesses. Since asymptomatic parasitemia is common in malaria-endemic areas, patients fulfilling current World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for severe malaria often have disease attributable to another cause, such as bacterial sepsis with incidental parasitemia, thereby limiting the specificity of this definition. For a treating clinician, a sensitive but less specific definition of severe malaria is entirely appropriate. However, for research purposes, a sensitive clinical definition may not necessarily be appropriate, and the case definition should depend on the research question. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: KENYA | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | CLASSIFICATION | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | CHILDREN | MALARIA | STANDARDIZATION | EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Data Adjustment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 319487 |
| 18. Title: Consensus of the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases on the management and treatment of hepatitis C. Author: Araujo ES; Mendonca JS; Barone AA; Goncales Junior FL; Ferreira MS Source: Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2007 Oct;11(5):446-450. Abstract: Each year, and every day, the results of clinical trials and basic research provide us with a great deal of new information regarding viral hepatitis. We on the Viral Hepatitis Committee of the Sociedade Brasileira de Infectologia have been working to standardize the major issues surrounding day-to-day practice in treating patients infected with the hepatitis B or C virus (HBV or HCV). We have decided to address, in alternate years, HBV, together with hepatitis delta (HDV), and HCV, in our annual 'Consensus' on clinical management. Last year, we published the first HBV Consensus. This year, we submit our HCV Consensus, which primarily serves to update the 2002 and 2004 SPI Consensuses. We distributed the principal topics among the Committee members, revised their work and compiled it into a Proceedings Supplement, which elucidates the highlights of the Consensus. A deeper review was written and referenced (it is our advice to the reader to read the Proceedings as well). A meeting was then held in Mogi das Cruzes in order to discuss, in a very practical and directed way, the issues most relevant to the Consensus, from public policies to the most complex therapeutic points. The results are summarized in a question/ answer, topic/statement format in this issue of the BJID. The main message of our statement was that we need to have the courage to act in favor of life. Many of us have adopted certain practices based on very new knowledge despite a lack of formal or official policies to support such practices. Some of us have been awaiting new compounds while patients are dying of chronic liver diseases. Unfortunately, the news from the battlefield is not so good. New compounds have been very disappointing (low potency, viral resistance, ineffective without interferon and various side effects, some serious). It is also difficult to incorporate new policies into everyday practice. However, strategies such as optimizing the use of pegylated interferon/ribavirin and encouraging treatment compliance, as well asfinding new ways to monitor and slow liver disease progression, are effective and should be put into practice. Most importantly, the low-dose maintenance of pegylated interferon seems to be very promising, and the use of interferon alpha has saved lives. That is why we choose to expound upon what we believe to be the current standard of care and the gold standard for dealing with this hard to treat virus, as well as with the chronic complications of HCV infection. Our position will be reevaluated over the next two years. Until then, we are confident that our guide will be of great value to the readers. Finally, we would like to thank Roche and Schering Plough for the educational grants provided to the SBI. However, we must stress that neither company attempted to influence any of the decisions made by our consensus group. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | STANDARDIZATION | CLINICAL TRIALS | CLIENTS | WOMEN | PREGNANCY | HEPATITIS | HIV INFECTIONS | INFECTIONS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | TREATMENT | HEALTH POLICY | DECISION MAKING | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Clinical Research | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproduction | Viral Diseases | Diseases | HIV | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses Document Number: 322782 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: Day-care management of children with severe malnutrition in an urban health clinic in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Author: Ashraf H; Ahmed T; Hossain MI; Alam NH; Mahmud R Source: Journal of Tropical Pediatrics. 2007 Jun;53(3):171-178. Abstract: Management of severely malnourished children with associated complications relies on hospital-based treatment. Implementation of a standardized protocol at the Dhaka Hospital, ICDDR,B reduced case fatality approximately 50%. We developed and prospectively evaluated a day-care clinic approach that provided antibiotics, micronutrients and feeding during the day with continued care by parents at home at night as an alternative to hospitalization. Severely malnourished children aged 6-23 months denied admission to hospital were enrolled at Radda Clinic, Dhaka and received protocolized management with antibiotics, micronutrients and milk-based diet from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm each day, while mothers were educated on continuation of care at home. They were transitioned to the day-care nutrition rehabilitation (NR) unit of Radda Clinic following resolution of acute illness, received NR diet (Khichuri, halwa and milk-based) daily until children attained 80% weight-for-length. From February 2001 to November 2003, 264 children were enrolled; 52% were boys and 78%, 21% and 1% had marasmus, marasmus-kwashiorkor and kwashiorkor, respectively. Only 13% had severe malnutrition alone while 35% had pneumonia, 35% had diarrhea and 17% had both pneumonia and diarrhea. The mean (SD) duration of acute and NR phases were 8 (4) and 14 (13) days, respectively. Children gained weight [mean (SD) g/kg day] more rapidly during acute 10 (7) than NR phase 6 (5). Successful management was possible in 82% (95% CI 77-86%) children, 12% discontinued treatment and 6% referred to hospitals. Only one child died during NR phase. Severely malnourished children can be successfully managed at existing day-care clinics using a protocolized approach. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CHILDREN | CHILD CARE | MALNUTRITION | CHILD NUTRITION | COMPLICATIONS | STANDARDIZATION | NUTRITION PROGRAMS | KWASHIORKOR | PREVALENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Child Rearing | Behavior | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Nutrition | Health | Data Adjustment | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Deficiency Diseases | Measurement Document Number: 313544 |
| 20. Title: Regulatory harmonization in Central America. How harmonization can impact regional contraceptive procurement. Author: Beith A; Olson N; Abramson W Source: Arlington, Virginia, JSI, DELIVER, 2007 Jun. [40] p. (USAID Contract No. GPO-I-00-06-00007-00) Abstract: Despite recent efforts to coordinate and standardize laws across countries in Central America, there continue to be a range of prices paid for contraceptives as well as varying procurement options available to public sector entities throughout the subregion. This paper discusses how, in practice, the harmonization of regulatory and procurement functions can facilitate pooled procurement as well as expand the number of contraceptive procurement options available to these countries. The paper concludes with an overview of the current status of harmonization efforts throughout Central America with the objective of providing information regarding the feasibility of a set of options within the current regulatory and legal framework. In addition, the paper presents initial ideas on how potential future changes in regulations could facilitate a broader range of efficient procurement options to public sector health authorities throughout the subregion. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CENTRAL AMERICA | SUMMARY REPORT | STANDARDIZATION | LOGISTICS | DRUGS | PHARMACY DISTRIBUTION | EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE SECURITY | CONDOMS | FUNDS | POLICY | HEALTH SERVICES | USAID | Developing Countries | Latin America | Americas | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Management | Organization and Administration | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Nonclinical Distribution | Distributional Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Family Planning | Contraceptive Availability | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Government Agencies | Organizations Document Number: 324271 |
| 21. Title: A guide for monitoring and evaluating population-health-environment programs. Author: Finn T Source: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center [CPC], MEASURE Evaluation, 2007 Oct. 162 p. (MS-07-25USAID Cooperative Agreement No. GPO-A-00-03-00003-00) Abstract: This guide is organized into three parts. The first part provides an overview of the guide, including its organization, development and purpose. The second part consists of technical information, including a brief process by which integrated PHE program managers can develop an M&E plan, types of evaluations, a list of generic monitoring and evaluation terminology, and the major data sources from which the indicators in this guide are drawn. This section also includes guidance on the importance of assessing data quality. The section on data sources should serve as a reference point for implementation of the indicators. The third part contains the indicators themselves, which are divided by technical area: population, health, environment, and indicators of integration, and value-added. Each indicator description contains the definition, disaggregates (if appropriate), a time frame, data sources and collection considerations, as well as strengths and weaknesses. Programs should define and measure indicators in the same way. This allows for comparison across countries and programs. The use of comparable measures can also provide international programs with valuable measures of the same indicator in different populations and habitats, enabling triangulation of findings and regional or local differences to be addressed. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | MANUAL | MONITORING | EVALUATION | DATA COLLECTION | DATA QUALITY | POPULATION | HEALTH | CONTRACEPTION | CHILD SURVIVAL | IMMUNIZATION | ENVIRONMENT | STANDARDIZATION | GOALS | RELIABILITY | IMPLEMENTATION | MAPS | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Family Planning | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Data Adjustment | Planning | Organization and Administration | Measurement | Programs Document Number: 322547 |
| 22. Title: Using health facility profiles as a monitoring tool: an example based on data from three African countries. Author: Fronczak N; Fapohunda B; Buckner B; Schenck-Yglesias C Source: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center, MEASURE Evaluation, 2007 Dec. 38 p. (MEASURE Evaluation Working Paper Series WP-07-101USAID Cooperative Agreement No. GPO-A-00-03-00003-00) Abstract: The objective of this document is to illustrate and compare the current status of facilities in three countries for which data are available, using information derived from the core indicators to create a set of facility profiles. Also illustrated is the calculation of a composite index that combines results obtained from the individual indicators into an overall summary measure of facility-based service conditions in a given country. It is hoped that this application of core indicators results in the form of facility profiles will stimulate further discussion and refinement of the core indicators and the summary indices. The ultimate aim is to facilitate the adoption of standard procedures that can produce consistent and internationally comparable information to inform the planning of health system investments and health programs, and to assess their impact. We believe that the use of standardized and internationally comparable information to produce facility profiles will allow donors and countries to understand better how conditions for facility-based services differ among countries, and can provide a context for interpreting status and needs. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | EVALUATION REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | EVALUATION INDEXES | EVALUATION RESEARCH | OPERATIONS RESEARCH | POLICYMAKERS | MONITORING | HEALTH FACILITIES | HEALTH FACILITY PLANNING | RESOURCE ALLOCATION | HEALTH SERVICES EVALUATION | STANDARDIZATION | BEST PRACTICES | NEEDS ASSESSMENT | Developing Countries | Africa | Evaluation | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation Methodology | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Research Methodology | Administrative Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Health Services Administration | Management | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Data Adjustment Document Number: 325670 |
| 23. Title: End-of-life care in children: The Brazilian and the international perspectives. Author: Lago PM; Devictor D; Piva JP; Bergounioux J Source: Jornal de Pediatria. 2007 May;83 Suppl 2:S109-S116. Abstract: The objective was to analyze the medical practices and the end-of-life care provided to children admitted to pediatric intensive care units in different parts of the globe. Articles on end-of-life care published during the last 20 years were selected from the PubMed, MEDLINE and LILACS databases, with emphasis on studies of death in pediatric intensive care units in Brazil, Latin America, Europe and North America, using the following keywords: death, bioethics, pediatric intensive care, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and life support limitation. Publications on life support limitation (LSL) are concentrated in North America and Europe. In North American pediatric intensive care units there is a greater incidence of LSL (~ 60%) than in Europe or Latin America (30-40%). These differences appear to be related to cultural, religious, legal and economic factors. Over the last decade, LSL in Brazilian pediatric intensive care units has increased from 6 to 40%, with do not resuscitate orders as the most common method. Also of note is the low level of family participation in the decision-making process. A recent resolution adopted by the Federal Medical Council (Conselho Federal de Medicina) regulated LSL in our country, demystifying a certain apprehension of a legal nature. The authors present a proposal for a protocol to be followed in these cases. The adoption of LSL with children in the final phases of irreversible diseases has ethical, moral and legal support. In Brazil, these measures are still being adopted in a timid manner, demanding a change in behavior, especially in the involvement of families in the decision-making process. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | BRAZIL | LITERATURE REVIEW | CHILDREN | MORTALITY | CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | CARE AND SUPPORT | EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES | DECISION MAKING | CULTURAL BACKGROUND | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | STANDARDIZATION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Dynamics | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Behavior | Religion | Sociocultural Factors | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology Document Number: 319430 |
| 24. Title: Global Fund grants for malaria: Lessons learned in the implementation of ACT policies in Guinea-Bissau. Author: Shretta R; Thumm M Source: Arlington, Virginia, Management Sciences for Health, Center for Pharmaceutical Management, Rational Pharmaceutical Management Plus, 2007 Jun. [28] p. (USAID Cooperative Agreement No. HRN-A-00-00-00016-00USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse Doc ID / Order No. PN-ADK-605) Abstract: The purpose of this study was to describe the implementation of the Global Fund malaria grants in Guinea-Bissau; to identify the bottlenecks that the countries faced at each step of the implementation process, and draw key lessons learned. The case study is intended to be descriptive and focused on the procurement, supply, and distribution aspects of implementing ACTs as the new first-line treatment for malaria in the country. The PRs can use the lessons learned to take remedial action to ensure that future procurement and distribution of ACTs will go more smoothly. In addition, PRs from other countries in the region can use these lessons learned to identify barriers to effective implementation, adapt the recommendations and strategies to tackle similar challenges, and facilitate the implementation of their own grants. The specific objectives of the study were to: trace the progress and document the key events of implementing the Global Fund grant related to ACTs-from developing the proposal and the Procurement, Supply, and Management (PSM) plans to distributing ACTs to health facilities; identify bottlenecks in the process that contributed to delays; describe the steps taken to address these bottlenecks; draw lessons learned. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GUINEA-BISSAU | PROGRESS REPORT | CASE STUDIES | ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL | USAID | MALARIA PREVENTION | GRANTS | ANTIBIOTICS | LOGISTICS | COORDINATION | DISTRIBUTIONAL ACTIVITIES | STANDARDIZATION | TREATMENT | HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Organization and Administration | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Malaria | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Drugs | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Management | Program Activities | Programs | Data Adjustment Document Number: 325475 |
| 25. Title: Past and present midwifery education in Turkey. Author: Sogukpinar N; Saydam BK; Bozkurt OD; Ozturk H; Pelik A Source: Midwifery. 2007 Dec;23(4):433-442. Abstract: Among criteria relating to the level of development in a country are health indicators such as total fertility, maternal mortality, infant mortality, and rates of life expectancy at birth. These have a close relationship with the quality of health-care services, especially those provided by midwives. An improvement in midwifery services can be achieved to a great extent by standardised and high-quality midwifery education. Until recently, midwifery education has not been standardised in Turkey. Although improvements have been made, more needs to be accomplished. In this paper, we report the development of midwifery education in Turkey from a historical perspective, dealing with past and present applications, and make recommendations to overcome existing problems. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | HISTORICAL REVIEW | RECOMMENDATIONS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | MIDWIVES AND MIDWIFERY | TRAINING PROGRAMS | STANDARDIZATION | EDUCATION | CLINIC ACTIVITIES | ACADEMIC TRAINING | CURRICULUM | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Developing Countries | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 322731 |
| 26. Peer Reviewed Title: Nxwisen, ntzarrin or ntzo'lin? Mapping children's respiratory symptoms among indigenous populations in Guatemala. Author: Thompson L; Diaz J; Jenny A; Diaz A; Bruce N Source: Social Science and Medicine. 2007 Oct;65(7):1337-1350. Abstract: Estimating the prevalence of asthma is an epidemiologic challenge, particularly in rural areas of lesser-developed countries characterized by low literacy and poor access to health care. To avoid under or over reporting of symptoms, questionnaires must use terminology familiar to participants and that accurately describes the triad of cough, wheeze and breathlessness characteristic of asthma. In preparation for a large longitudinal cohort study entitled Chronic Respiratory Effects of Early Childhood Exposure to Respirable Particulate Matter (CRECER) that will examine the effects of variable early lifetime woodsmoke exposure on the respiratory health of Mam-speaking children residing in communities in the western highlands of Guatemala, we conducted individual interviews (n = 18) and five focus groups (n = 46) with indigenous women from 17 of these communities to elicit and define local Mam and Spanish terms for common respiratory symptoms used to describe their own and their children's respiratorysymptoms. Focus group participants were also shown an International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) video of wheezing children and adults. We developed a conceptual framework that can be used as an efficient model for future studies investigating health and/or disease terminology in isolated communities, an integral step in the development of standardized questionnaires. Among this Mam-speaking population, wheeze was best described as nxwisen or ntzarrin, "breathing sounds that are heard in the neck but come from the chest." The variation in understanding of terms between women with and without children with a history of wheeze (such that for those without wheezing children some terms were virtually unrecognized), has important implications for large-scale population surveys within countries and comparative surveys such as ISAAC. It is important to use linguistically and culturally appropriate terminology to describe wheeze in prevalence studies of asthmatic symptoms among relatively isolated communities in lesser-developed countries. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GUATEMALA | RESEARCH REPORT | PILOT PROJECTS | FOCUS GROUPS | INTERVIEWS | CHILDREN | RURAL POPULATION | INDIGENOUS POPULATION | ASTHMA | ALLERGIC REACTION | PREVALENCE | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN | LANGUAGE | STANDARDIZATION | Central America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Pulmonary Effects | Physiology | Biology | Diseases | Measurement | Survey Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Communication | Data Adjustment Document Number: 313842 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Variations in policies for management of the third stage of labour and the immediate management of postpartum haemorrhage in Europe. Author: Winter C; Macfarlane A; Deneux-Tharaux C; Zhang WH; Alexander S Source: BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 2007 Jul;114(7):845-854. Abstract: The European Project on obstetric Haemorrhage Reduction: Attitudes, Trial, and Early warning System (EUPHRATES) is a set of five linked projects, the first component of which was a survey of policies for management of the third stage of labour and immediate management of postpartum haemorrhage following vaginal birth in Europe. The objectives were to ascertain and compare policies for management of the third stage of labour and immediate management of postpartum haemorrhage in maternity units in Europe following vaginal birth. The design used was a survey of policies. The project was a European collaboration, with participants in 14 European countries. The sample used for the study was all maternity units in 12 countries and in selected regions of two countries in Europe. A postal questionnaire was sent to all or a defined sample of maternity units in each participating country. Main outcome measures stated policies for management of the third stage of labour and the immediate management of postpartum haemorrhage. Policies of using uterotonics for the management of the third stage were widespread, but policies about agents, timing, clamping and cutting the umbilical cord and the use of controlled cord traction differed widely. For immediate management of postpartum haemorrhage, policies of massaging the uterus were widespread. Policies of catheterising the bladder, bimanual compression and in the choice of drugs administered were much more variable. Considerable variations were observed between and within countries in policies for management of the third stage of labour. Variations were observed, but to a lesser extent, in policies for the immediate management of postpartum haemorrhage after vaginal birth. In both cases, policies about the pharmacological agents to be used varied widely. (author's) Language: English Keywords: EUROPE | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | PREGNANT WOMEN | POSTPARTUM WOMEN | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | CHILDBIRTH | POSTPARTUM | BLEEDING | OBSTETRICS | HEALTH POLICY | EMERGENCY SERVICES | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | STANDARDIZATION | Developed Countries | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Puerperium | Reproduction | Diseases | Pregnancy Outcomes | Pregnancy | Signs and Symptoms | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Data Adjustment Document Number: 313620 |
| 28. Title: Disparities in health among men: Toward a global perspective [editorial] Author: Young AM Source: Journal of Men's Health and Gender. 2007 Sep;4(3):222-225. Abstract: It is well documented that under-served health needs among men result in avoidable mortality and morbidity, increase medical costs for health systems, and ultimately pose significant public policy challenges in nearly all nations. Strong evidence also indicates that disparities in health outcomes among men occur along the social fault lines of our various nation-states. Race, ethnicity, and language group; income; immigration status; sexual orientation; and other phenomena are rather consistent categories of social marginality. These categories often reverberate in health as markers of vulnerability. By focusing in a globally coordinated fashion on the social determinants of health and the health disparities among men that correlate with marginality, the field of men's health can contribute directly to policy agendas for structural reform, global co-operation, and social justice. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | MEN | LOW INCOME POPULATION | HEALTH POLICY | STANDARDIZATION | ADVOCACY | POVERTY | MEN'S HEALTH | MEN'S INVOLVEMENT | CAPACITY BUILDING | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Data Adjustment | Communication | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Program Sustainability Document Number: 321322 |
| 29. Title: Environmental influences on children's health [editorial] Source: Lancet. 2006 Feb 4;367(9508):369. Abstract: Consistent reductions in child mortality have been achieved in most regions of the world during the past three decades--Afghanistan and several African nations are among the unfortunate exceptions. As communicable diseases and common neonatal risk factors become more effectively controlled, experts concerned with further improving the health of children are turning their attentions to the environment. However, a disappointing report released last week, which describes the first efforts to establish measurements to inform environmental health policymaking for North America, reveals just how little is known about the link between environmental pollutants and childhood disease. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: NORTH AMERICA, NORTHERN | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | CHILDREN | ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION | CHILD HEALTH | ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY | STANDARDIZATION | LEAD | TOXICITY | ASTHMA | RESPIRATORY INSUFFICIENCY | Americas | Developed Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Environment | Health | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Data Adjustment | Research Methodology | Metals | Vitamins and Minerals | Physiology | Biology | Pulmonary Effects Document Number: 296766 |
| 30. Title: Strategic approach for the strengthening of laboratory services for tuberculosis control, 2006-2009. Author: Abdel Aziz M; Ryszewska K; Laszlo A; Blanc L Source: Geneva, Switzerland, World Health Organization [WHO], 2006. [21] p. (WHO/HTM/TB/2006.364) Abstract: Bacteriology is one of the fundamental aspects of national tuberculosis (TB) control programmes (NTPs) and a key component of the DOTS strategy. However, TB laboratory services are often neglected components of these programmes. Given existing constraints, it will be difficult for many countries to achieve the global targets of 70% detection of infectious cases and 85% cure of these incidents by the year 2005. Although the global success rate under DOTS has reached 82%, the detection rate of the estimated prevalence has increased at a far slower rate (53% in 2004). In order to improve the case-detection rate, a global strategy for the development and strengthening of TB laboratory networks needs to be implemented urgently. In addition to improving sputum smear microscopy, the strategy recognizes the need to upgrade existing laboratory services and to strengthen/build capacity to perform culture and drug susceptibility testing (DST) in areas experiencing a high burden of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear-negative TB associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and to support DOTS-Plus projects. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | MANUAL | EVALUATION | POLICYMAKERS | TUBERCULOSIS | |