1.  Title: A comparative analysis of select health facility survey methods applied in low and middle income countries. Author: Edward A; Matsubiyashi T; Fapohunda B; Becker S Source: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center, MEASURE Evaluation, 2009 Jul. 47 p. (MEASURE Evaluation Working Paper Series WP-09-111USAID Cooperative Agreement No. GHA-A-00-08-00003-00) Abstract: A majority of health systems in developing countries have severe limitations in the technical expertise and research capacity needed to perform independent assessments. Most are heavily reliant on donor support and engage other institutions and academia to undertake these surveys. Hence, it is important to examine the perspectives of the implementers to determine the management utility and plans for future sustainability. A key informant interview guide was developed for interviews with policy planners, implementing agencies, and health providers to examine their perspectives on the management utility of selected approaches. Key informants were interviewed, including policy planners, project directors, systems supervisors / coordinators, and enumerators, and the findings are presented later in this paper. A comparison of the approach to health facility assessment in the specific methods appears next. Based on the results of the review and key informant interviews, this paper discusses the comparative advantage and limitation of HF surveys and their management utility. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | TECHNICAL REPORT | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | HEALTH FACILITIES | HEALTH SERVICES EVALUATION | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | INTERVIEWS | HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION | DECISION MAKING | Studies | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Data Collection | Management | Behavior Document Number: 331840 |
2.  Peer Reviewed Title: Direct data capture using hand-held computers in rural Burkina Faso: Experiences, benefits and lessons learnt. Author: Byass P; Hounton S; Ouedraogo M; Some H; Diallo I Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health. 2008 Jul;13 Suppl 1:25-30. Abstract: The objectives were to assess our experiences of using hand-held computers (personal digital assistants, PDAs) for direct data capture in a large community-based geo-referenced survey in rural Burkina Faso, highlighting benefits and lessons learnt from their use. A population-based geo-referenced survey of over 500 000 people was undertaken using PDAs with in-built GPS receivers and the resulting database analysed in terms of successful completion, error rates and interview durations. Surveys were successfully completed for 84 861 households (98.3%) by 127 interviewers. The data input error rate was assessed at 0.24%, with more than half of the errors being made by less than 10% of the interviewers. Faster interviewers were not less accurate. Time-stamped and geo-referenced data allowed reconstruction of particular interviewer-day activities. Although the survey setting was challenging, the feasibility of using direct data capture on a large scale was well established. We learnt that, with more experience, we could have made better use of real-time entry and quality control checking procedures. The work involved in designing and setting up a complex survey on PDAs prior to data collection should not be underestimated. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BURKINA FASO | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | INTERVIEWS | DATA COLLECTION | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | COMPUTERS | SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS | CENSUS METHODS | POPULATION STATISTICS | RURAL AREAS | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Information Processing | Information | Telecommunications | Broadcast Media | Mass Media | Communication | Census | Geographic Factors | Population Document Number: 327427 |
| 3. Title: Comparing two survey methods for estimating maternal and perinatal mortality in rural Cambodia. Author: Chandy H; Heng YV; Samol H; Husum H Source: Women and Birth. 2008 Mar;21(1):9-12. Abstract: We need solid estimates of maternal mortality rates (MMR) to monitor the impact of maternal care programs. Cambodian health authorities and WHO report the MMR in Cambodia at 450 per 100,000 live births. The figure is drawn from surveys where information is obtained by interviewing respondents about the survival of all their adult sisters (sisterhood method). The estimate is statistically imprecise, 95% confidence intervals ranging from 260 to 620/100,000. The MMR estimate is also uncertain due to under-reporting; where 80-90% of women deliver at home maternal fatalities may go undetected especially where mortality is highest, in remote rural areas. The aim of this study was to attain more reliable MMR estimates by using survey methods other than the sisterhood method prior to an intervention targeting obstetric rural emergencies. The study was carried out in rural Northwestern Cambodia where access to health services is poor and poverty, endemic diseases, and land mines are endemic. Two survey methods were applied in two separate sectors: a community-based survey gathering data from public sources and a household survey gathering data direct from primary sources. There was no statistically significant difference between the two survey results for maternal deaths, both types of survey reported mortality rates around the public figure. The household survey reported a significantly higher perinatal mortality rate as compared to the community-based survey, 8.6% versus 5.0%. Also the household survey gave qualitative data important for a better understanding of the many problems faced by mothers giving birth in the remote villages. There are detection failures in both surveys; the failure rate may be as high as 30-40%. Both survey methods are inaccurate, therefore inappropriate for evaluation of short-term changes of mortality rates. Surveys based on primary informants yield qualitative information about mothers' hardships important for the design of future maternal care interventions. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CAMBODIA | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | RURAL POPULATION | MATERNAL MORTALITY | INFANT MORTALITY | DATA COLLECTION | RELIABILITY | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Measurement Document Number: 325022 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: Using personal digital assistants in post-conflict health surveys: potential and constraints. Author: d'Harcourt E; Mulumba F Source: Global Public Health. 2008 Jul;3(3):326-342. Abstract: Compared to their counterparts in wealthier nations, managers and front-line health care workers in non-industrialised countries make more limited use of information technology to assist their decision-making. This is particularly true in conflict-affected countries, which tend to be even poorer, and have a greater scarcity of infrastructure and qualified personnel, than other developing countries. At the same time, more stakeholders are recognising the potential of electronic information management in resource-poor settings, as well as the value of investing in conflict-affected countries more generally. We present here the experience of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) with the use of handheld personal digital assistants (PDAs) for health surveys in conflict-affected sub- Saharan African countries, and discuss lessons learned and potential for further development of this tool. The use of PDAs for surveys has lowered costs, made data available for analysis much faster, and reduced errors. Conflict-specific obstacles, such as insecurity, have not proven to be a significant barrier to PDA use in practice. There have also been limitations. Using PDAs requires survey managers to have some technical proficiency, and PDAs are less helpful for qualitative surveys. Overall, the experience has been positive, and we have found PDAs to be equally appropriate in conflict-affected countries as in other settings. We recommend taking several steps to prevent problems and extend benefits, including using checklists and memory cards to simplify the process, and taking advantage of the same PDAs for other purposes beyond surveys, including supervision, quality assurance, and routine data entry. Finally, it is important to note that PDA use does not dispense survey organisers from the usual principles of good survey implementation. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | HEALTH SURVEYS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | DATA COLLECTION | HEALTH PERSONNEL | WAR | COMPUTERS | APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY | QUALITY CONTROL | Health | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Delivery of Health Care | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Information Processing | Information | Technology | Economic Factors | Organization and Administration Document Number: 327759 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Differences in young people's reports of sexual behaviors according to interview methodology: a randomized trial in India. Author: Jaya; Hindin MJ; Ahmed S Source: American Journal of Public Health. 2008 Jan;98(1):169-174. Abstract: We compared reports of sexual behaviors given in standard face-to-face interviews with reports given in audio computer-assisted self-interviews (ACASIs) and culturally specific interactive interviews among adolescents in India. We sought to determine which of the interview methods leads to higher reporting of sexual behaviors among economically disadvantaged 15-19-year-olds in urban India. We conducted a randomized trial in which each participant (583 boys and 475 girls) was assigned to 2 interview methods: face-to-face interview and ACASI or interactive interview. We used matched case-control analyses to assess differences in the individual's reporting on the 2 methods. Female participants consistently reported fewer sexual behaviors in ACASIs than in face-to-face interviews, whereas male participants' reports differed according to type of sexual behavior and interview mode. Both male and female participants reported more sexual behaviors during interactive interviews than during face-to-face interviews. Twenty-eight percent of male participants reported having engaged in heterosexual intercourse in interactive interviews, as compared with 20% in face-to-face interviews (P less than .01); the corresponding percentages for female participants were 7% and 2% (P less than .01). Our results showed that young people were more likely to report sexual behaviors in culturally specific interactive interviews than in face-to-face interviews. By contrast, ACASIs did not uniformly lead to higher reporting levels than did face-to-face interviews. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | CASE CONTROL STUDIES | INTERVIEWS | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | ADOLESCENTS | SEX BEHAVIOR | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | COMPUTERS | BIAS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Data Collection | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Information Processing | Information | Error Sources | Measurement Document Number: 314038 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Two approaches to measuring women's work in developing countries: a comparison of survey data from Egypt. Author: Langsten R; Salem R Source: Population and Development Review. 2008 Jun;34(2):283-305. Abstract: The social science literature has long recognized that women's productive activities are poorly measured. Evidence indicates that women's work is underreported in official data, censuses, and labor force surveys. Two broad issues affect measures of women's work: 1) the definition or conceptual categories used; and 2) the way in which the definition is operationalized for data collection. The authors examine this second issue, data collection methods, using examples from a number of surveys recently conducted in Egypt. Their concern is with the measurement of women's contribution to production rather than their labor force participation. A review of the conceptual consensus regarding what activities constitute work and past efforts to determine how best to capture work in large-scale surveys was conducted. The analysis compares two surveys of the same population of women in Egypt that share the same definition of work but that differ in their approaches to measuring it. This article contributes tothe literature on the measurement of women's work in several ways: 1) Results support the superior effectiveness of the activities list format, but depart from previous methods tests in claiming that multiple keyword questions are largely ineffective. 2) Quantify how much hidden work is captured by activities lists and argue that this work is not inconsequential. 3) Examine systematic biases inherent in the keyword approach by looking at the types of work activities that it obscures and the profiles of the working women excluded. 4) Make practical recommendations for improved questionnaire designs that will more accurately measure women's work. The changes to surveys of women's work that recommended would probably improve estimates of the work of children and the elderly, as well as work performed in the agricultural and informal sectors. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | WOMEN | LABOR FORCE | EMPLOYMENT | MEASUREMENT | DATA REPORTING | DATA QUALITY | SURVEYS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | RECOMMENDATIONS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Demographic Factors | Population | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Data Analysis | Sampling Studies | Studies Document Number: 327374 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Impact of methodological 'shortcuts' in conducting public health surveys: Results from a vaccination coverage survey. Author: Luman ET; Sablan M; Stokley S; McCauley MM; Shaw KM Source: BMC Public Health. 2008 Mar 27;8:99. Abstract: Lack of methodological rigor can cause survey error, leading to biased results and suboptimal public health response. This study focused on the potential impact of 3 methodological "shortcuts" pertaining to field surveys: relying on a single source for critical data, failing to repeatedly visit households to improve response rates, and excluding remote areas. In a vaccination coverage survey of young children conducted in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in July 2005, 3 sources of vaccination information were used, multiple follow-up visits were made, and all inhabited areas were included in the sampling frame. Results are calculated with and without these strategies. Most children had at least 2 sources of data; vaccination coverage estimated from any single source was substantially lower than from all sources combined. Eligibility was ascertained for 79% of households after the initial visit and for 94% of households after follow-up visits; vaccination coverage rates were similarwith and without follow-up. Coverage among children on remote islands differed substantially from that of their counterparts on the main island indicating a programmatic need for locality-specific information; excluding remote islands from the survey would have had little effect on overall estimates due to small populations and divergent results. Strategies to reduce sources of survey error should be maximized in public health surveys. The impact of the 3 strategies illustrated here will vary depending on the primary outcomes of interest and local situations. Survey limitations such as potential for error should be well-documented, and the likely direction and magnitude of bias should be considered. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | SURVEY PERSONNEL | RESPONDENTS | CHILDREN | PUBLIC HEALTH | VACCINATION | REPEATED ROUNDS OF SURVEY | GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS | ERROR SOURCES | DATA SOURCES | Developing Countries | Oceania | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Immunization | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Measurement | Data Collection Document Number: 325702 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Micro-epidemiology of urinary schistosomiasis in Zanzibar: Local risk factors associated with distribution of infections among schoolchildren and relevance for control. Author: Rudge JW; Stothard JR; Basanez MG; Mgeni AF; Khamis IS Source: Acta Tropica. 2008 Jan;105(1):45-54. Abstract: Although it is well recognised that both behavioural and environmental factors play a role in determining small-scale heterogeneities in schistosomiasis transmission, empirical evidence of their relative importance is often limited. A study was conducted around Chaani, a village in northern Unguja (Zanzibar) where urinary schistosomiasis is endemic, in order to shed light upon the micro-epidemiology of Schistosoma haematobium and patterns of infection within schoolchildren and the intermediate host snail Bulinus globosus, that may help in adjusting recently implemented control programmes. Malacological surveys were conducted to identify transmission foci and questionnaires were devised to assess recalled water-contact patterns of 150 schoolchildren who had been screened for S. haematobium infection, finding an overall prevalence of 50.6%. Boys were more frequently and more heavily infected than girls and, accordingly, mean exposure scores were significantly higher for boys than girls. Univariate statistics revealed significant associations between infection and specific water-contact activities, including washing/bathing (odds ratio [OR] = 3.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36-6.67) and playing (OR = 4.03, 95% CI = 1.51-10.70) in streams/ponds. In multivariate analysis, however, the strongest predictor of infection was proximity of the child's home to a site harbouring S. haematobium-infected B. globosus (P < 0.001), suggesting that geography may be a better proxy for exposure than self-reported water contact. Surveillance programmes may therefore wish to prioritise evaluation of environmental risk to pinpoint transmission at the micro-geographical level, although water-contact questionnaires are also recommended as a complementary tool to rapidly identify the behaviour patterns of children at most risk of infection in the rural communities of Zanzibar. Such knowledge is a prerequisite for focusing and improving schistosomiasis control at the local level. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUESTIONNAIRES | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | CHILD | STUDENTS | SCHISTOSOMIASIS | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | WATER QUALITY | RISK ASSESSMENT | RISK FACTORS | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Education | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Water | Natural Resources | Environment | Evaluation | Biology Document Number: 323102 |
| 9. 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 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: The feasibility of audio computer-assisted self-interviewing in international settings. Author: NIMH Collaborative HIV / STD Prevention Trial Group Source: AIDS. 2007 Apr;21 Suppl 2:S49-S58. Abstract: The objective was to determine the feasibility of using audio computer-assisted self-interviewing (ACASI) for data collection in developing countries, and to compare responses to questions eliciting sensitive information about sexual behavior using ACASI versus computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) in five developing countries. A feasibility study determined whether ACASI could be used in populations in developing countries. A follow-up, randomized crossover study compared responses to questions eliciting sensitive information about sexual behavior using ACASI versus CAPI. The NIMH Collaborative HIV/STD Prevention Trial conducted a feasibility study of ACASI in convenience samples in China, India, Peru, and Russia, then a randomized crossover ACASI versus CAPI study among volunteers in these countries plus Zimbabwe. Approximately equal numbers of men and women completed the feasibility study; the results suggested a high comfort level among participants. Married respondents in China and India appeared to give unreliable responses on sexual activity. In the crossover study, the pattern of responses to sensitive questions showed few differences. In China, higher rates of sexual risk were reported on CAPI. In Peru and Russia, differences by mode were found in the number of partners in the past year. Despite variable computer experience and literacy, feasibility study participants reported ease in completing ACASI, and preferred a computer to an interviewer for answering sensitive questions, or had no preference. In the crossover study, most participants gave similar responses on both modes of survey administration. ACASI appears to be feasible in these settings, although low literacy may pose problems if participants cannot clarify questions. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | INDIA | PERU | RUSSIA | ZIMBABWE | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | RESPONDENTS | KAP SURVEYS | SEX BEHAVIOR | COMPUTER PROGRAMS AND PROGRAMMING | Developing Countries | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Asia, Southern | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | Asia, Northern | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Behavior | Information Processing | Information Document Number: 315483 |
| 11. Title: Letter to the editor [letter] Author: Barrett G Source: Contraception. 2007 Jan;75(1):79. Abstract: The paper by Schunmann and Glasier was interesting and informative; however, there were fundamental flaws in their use of a new measure of pregnancy intention. A modified version of the measure was used in the study, where the mode of administration was changed and a question removed, despite the fact that the original scale has proven validity, reliability and acceptability with women undergoing abortion. Interpretations of the meaning of specific points of the new 10-point scale (e.g., score = 3 = fairly unintended, score = 2 = very unintended) were also made without justification. Any changes to the item content or wording or mode of administration of an existing measure must be formally evaluated against the original measure to ensure that the revised scale has commensurate psychometric properties. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED KINGDOM | CRITIQUE | ABORTION | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | RELIABILITY | VALIDITY | Europe, Western | Europe | Developed Countries | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Measurement Document Number: 310443 Notification |
| 12. Title: Designing surveys of international migrants: The needle in the haystack, or finding the right haystack? A case study of Colombians in Ecuador. Extended abstract. Author: Bilsborrow RE Source: [Unpublished] 2007. Presented at the 2007 Annual Meeting of the Population Association of America, New York, New York, March 29-31, 2007. [8] p. Abstract: A major methodological issue is how to collect the data, since international migrants are generally a very small proportion of the population in host countries, and more so if one focuses on recent migrants rather than lifetime migrants. It is clearly the former that is of interest for formulating policies. The proposed paper is concerned with the testing of methodologies developed for designing samples to select international migrants, based on the "rare elements" problem in the sampling literature, and the results of an empirical study in one developing country, which also incorporated the use of snowball sampling to attempt to locate the international migrants. Several significant problems were encountered in the data collection, which may have useful lessons for future surveys on international migration. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: ECUADOR | COLOMBIA | SUMMARY REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | CASE STUDIES | HOUSEHOLDS | MIGRANTS | REFUGEES | INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION | REMITTANCES | Developing Countries | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | South America, Northern | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 318540 |
| 13. Title: Is it all in a word? The effect of issue framing on public support for U.S. spending on HIV / AIDS in developing countries. Author: Bleich S Source: Harvard International Journal of Press / Politics. 2007;12(2):120-132. Abstract: The frequency of government foreign aid decisions influenced by pubic opinion has risen dramatically in the past few years. This study looks at the effect of issue framing on support for U.S. spending on HIV/AIDS in developing countries-specifically, at how support changes when the phrase foreign aid is included or omitted from a survey question. Analyses reveal a significant effect of issue framing for women and Democrats. Omitting the phrase foreign aid is associated with increased support for U.S. spending among Democrats and decreased support among women. Regardless of issue framing, blacks, Hispanics, and more educated individuals support U.S. spending on HIV/AIDS in developing countries. However, when forced to decide between funds' going overseas for HIV/AIDS in developing countries or remaining in the United States, all respondents overwhelmingly support monies' being used in the United States. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | POPULATION | PUBLIC OPINION | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | FOREIGN AID | TERMINOLOGY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Financial Activities | Economic Factors Document Number: 317574 |
| 14. Title: First feasibility and reliability test of indicators for adherence to antiretroviral medicine: national survey in Kenya, October 2-7, 2006. Author: Chalker J Source: Arlington, Virginia, Management Sciences for Health [MSH], Center for Pharmaceutical Management, Sida / INRUD Enhancing Adherence for Antiretrovirals in East Africa Project, 2007 Jan. 38 p. (USAID Cooperative Agreement No. HRN-A-00-00-00016-00USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse DocID / Order No. PN-ADI-099) Abstract: In collaboration with national AIDS control programs, International Network for Rational Use of Drugs (INRUD) groups conducted a survey to ascertain the current practices in measuring and calculating adherence and defaulting behaviors by patients receiving antiretroviral (ARV) medicines in antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs as well as to find what data are routinely recorded and where in five East African countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. Overall, interviews were conducted with 24 programs or facility grouping managers that provide ARVs in the five countries and with facility managers or clinicians in 48 facilities with 86,807 patients on ART. These facilities included a wide range of types. Definitions of both adherence and defaulters or dropouts vary considerably, if they exist at all. Fourteen different definitions of defaulting were used. Measurement at individual or facility level is haphazard, using various data sources and various methods of calculation. Nevertheless, as much information is recorded at both the clinic and pharmacy, a standardized measurement should be possible. A regional meeting was held at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, April 27-29, 2006, in which 38 participants took part. They came from Management Sciences for Health (MSH), the national AIDS control programs, and local INRUD groups who had coordinated the survey. The meeting was held to discuss findings of the ARV adherence survey and plan work to develop and validate reliable and feasible indicators of adherence. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: KENYA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | PHARMACISTS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | USER COMPLIANCE | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Health Personnel | Health | HIV | Behavior Document Number: 314777 |
| 15. Title: Second feasibility and reliability test of indicators for adherence to antiretroviral medicine: national survey in Rwanda, November 27 - December 1, 2006. Author: Chalker J Source: Arlington, Virginia, Management Sciences for Health [MSH], Center for Pharmaceutical Management, Sida / INRUD Enhancing Adherence for Antiretrovirals in East Africa Project, 2007 Jan. 44 p. (USAID Cooperative Agreement No. HRN-A-00-00-00016-00USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse DocID / Order No. PN-ADI-100) Abstract: In collaboration with national AIDS control programs, International Network for Rational Use of Drugs (INRUD) groups conducted a survey to ascertain the current practices in measuring and calculating adherence and defaulting behaviors by patients receiving antiretroviral (ARV) medicines in antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs and to find what data are routinely recorded and where in five East African countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. Overall, interviews were conducted with 24 programs or facility grouping managers that provide ARVs in the five countries and with facility managers or clinicians in 48 facilities with 86,807 patients on ART. These facilities included a wide range of types. Definitions of both adherence and defaulters or dropouts vary considerably, if they exist at all. Fourteen different definitions of defaulting were used. Measurement at individual or facility level is haphazard, using various data sources and various methods of calculation. Nevertheless, much information is recorded at both the clinic and pharmacy locations, so a standardized measurement should be possible. A regional meeting was held at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, April 27-29, 2006, in which 38 participants took part. They came from Management Sciences for Health (MSH), the national AIDS control programs, and local INRUD groups who had coordinated the survey. The main objective of the meeting was to discuss findings of the ARV adherence survey and plan work to develop and validate reliable and feasible indicators of adherence. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: RWANDA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | PHARMACISTS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | USER COMPLIANCE | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | Africa, Central | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Health Personnel | Health | HIV | Behavior Document Number: 314778 |
| 16. Title: Converging evidence suggests nonsexual HIV transmission among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. Authors' reply [letter] Author: Gavin L; St. Louis M; Galavotti C Source: Journal of Adolescent Health. 2007 Mar;40(3):291-293. Abstract: We appreciate Potterat et al's interest in our study, which described a clear association between number of sexual partners and HIV prevalence but also noted that 41% of HIV-positive females reported no history of sexual activity. They suggest that unsafe medical injections, rather than sexual transmission, are responsible for the high rate of HIV infection that we observed. We acknowledged the possibility of nonsexual transmission in our article, but the survey we analyzed was conducted prior to the debate about transmission and did not ask about injection history. Potterat et al mention a study in Zambia in which unsafe medical injections were found to be associated with HIV prevalence, but other studies, including a literature review led by the World Health Organization, have concluded that there is no compelling evidence that unsafe injections are a predominant mode of HIV transmission in sub-Saharan African. If injections were a major source of transmission, one would expect high rates during childhood, when children receive most preventive vaccinations and many health care visits. Yet a study of mother-child dyads in public health facilities in South Africa found only 1.4% of HIV-positive children aged 2-9 years had HIV-negative mothers. While this study needs to be replicated in other settings, it does not indicate that injections play a major role in transmission among children. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | ZIMBABWE | CRITIQUE | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | RESPONDENTS | HIV TRANSMISSION | VIRGINITY | MULTIPLE PARTNERS | NEEDLE PIERCING | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | SOCIAL BEHAVIOR | Developing Countries | Africa | Africa, Southern | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Sexual Partners | Risk Behavior Document Number: 312686 |
| 17. Peer Reviewed Title: HBV serological markers of vaccinated children in remote areas of Taiwan: Emphasis on factors contributing to vaccine failure. Author: Huang ML; Liao WL; Ho MS Source: Vaccine. 2007 Aug 21;25(34):6326-6333. Abstract: A serosurvey targeting Hepatitis B virus (HBV)-vaccinated children born between 1986 and 1998 was conducted in 2001 in remote Taiwanese villages where a 1993 serosurvey indicated high vaccine failure. The HBV S antigen (HBsAg) seropositive rate among vaccinees of 3-6-year-old children in 2001 was significantly lower than that of 1993 and was higher among children who had a delayed vaccination schedule and received the plasma-derived vaccine. Vaccine escape variants were more prevalent among recipients of recombinant HBV vaccine residing in Hualien. Our study highlights the importance of continued monitoring of vaccinees for incidence of HBV infection in order to refine future vaccination policy. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TAIWAN | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | CHILDREN | HEPATITIS | VACCINES | VACCINATION | INFECTION PREVENTION | MONITORING | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Immunization | Primary Health Care | Infections | Evaluation Document Number: 313731 |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: Nonconsensual sexual experiences of adolescents in urban India. Author: Jaya J; Hindin MJ Source: Journal of Adolescent Health. 2007 Jun;40(6):573.e7-573.e14. Abstract: Research from developing countries suggests that nonconsensual sexual experiences are common, yet these experiences remain understudied. We describe the prevalence and factors associated with nonconsensual sexual experiences of unmarried adolescents (583 boys and 474 girls), ages 15-19 years, from economically disadvantaged neighborhoods in Delhi, India. We also describe their reports of perpetrators. Thirty-two percent of boys and 42% of girls reported being touched against their will. After multivariate adjustment, both boys and girls who had ever worked (odds ratio [OR] = 1.76, p = .05 and OR = 1.79, p = .004, respectively) and those who had a friend of the opposite gender (OR = 3.64, p = .0001 and OR = 2.19, p = .0001, respectively) were more likely to report the experience. The most commonly reported perpetrators were female friends for boys (60%) and strangers for girls (93%). Fifteen percent of boys and 3% of girls reported that someone forcibly tried to have a physical relationship with them. Boys who had ever worked (OR = 3.73, p = .007) were more likely to report the experience. Both boys and girls who had a friend of the opposite sex were more likely to report attempted forced physical relationship (OR = 3.73, p = .0001 and OR = 3.41, p = .03, respectively). The most commonly reported perpetrators were female friends for boys (72%) and neighbors (60%) for girls. Nonconsensual sex is a common experience for these adolescents and there are important gender differences in experience and type of perpetrator. The findings underscore the need to develop programs that enable young people to prevent and cope with nonconsensual sexual experiences. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | URBAN AREAS | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | ADOLESCENTS | NEVER MARRIED | LOW INCOME POPULATION | SEXUAL HARASSMENT | SEXUAL ABUSE | RAPE | SEX FACTORS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Geographic Factors | Population | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies Document Number: 317080 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: Design of a community-based study of sexually transmitted infections / HIV and infertility in an urban area of northern Tanzania. Author: Larsen U; Mlay J; Aboud S; Ballard R; Sam NE Source: Sexually Transmitted Diseases. 2007 Jan;34(1):20-24. Abstract: The objective of this study was to describe the design of a community-based study of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)/ HIV and infertility in northern Tanzania. Households were selected using a 2-stage sampling design. Eligible women and their partners were interviewed before samples were collected for STIs/HIV detection. Posttest counseling and treatment for STIs and infertility were provided. A total of 2019 women and 794 male partners were interviewed. Over 70% of interviewed women and men provided blood and urine samples. Individuals providing blood and urine samples had high-risk profiles for STIs/HIV when compared with others who did not provide these samples. Although the study results may be affected by selection bias, risk factors for STIs/HIV were similar to those in other studies supporting the generalizability of the findings. It is feasible to conduct a community-based survey, including collection of biomarkers and measurement of infertility, in this urban setting. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | KAP SURVEYS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | CLINICAL RESEARCH | URBAN POPULATION | COMMUNITY | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SEXUAL PARTNERS | INFERTILITY | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | HIV INFECTIONS | RISK FACTORS | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Reproduction | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Viral Diseases | Biology Document Number: 310728 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: Audio computer-assisted self-interviewing in reproductive health research: reliability assessment among women in Harare, Zimbabwe. Author: Minnis AM; Muchini A; Shiboski S; Mwale M; Morrison C Source: Contraception. 2007 Jan;75(1):59-65. Abstract: Research on the measurement of HIV risk demonstrates that interview mode can affect reporting; however, few studies have applied these findings to assessments of hormonal contraceptive use. This paper examines how audio computer-assisted self-interviewing (ACASI) influenced reports of hormonal contraceptive use and pregnancy among Zimbabwean women. Using a prospective, randomized, cross-over design, we compared self-reports obtained with ACASI and face-to-face (FTF) interview among 655 women enrolled in a prospective study on hormonal contraceptive use and HIV acquisition. In addition, self-report data were compared to those collected during clinical exams. Compared to FTF interviews, reports of hormonal contraceptive use were lower in ACASI [odds ratio (OR) = 0.6; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.5-0.6], and reports of pregnancy were higher (OR = 1.5; 95% CI = 1.1-1.9). Both modes of self-report differed from records on contraceptive method disbursement. Although ACASI yielded higher reports of several reproductive health behaviors, discrepancies between self-reports and clinical data on method disbursement highlight persistent measurement challenges. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ZIMBABWE | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | WOMEN | FAMILY PLANNING ACCEPTORS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | HIV TRANSMISSION | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES | DEPO-PROVERA | RELIABILITY | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Planning Programs | Family Planning | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Health | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Medroxyprogesterone Acetate | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Measurement Document Number: 310440 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Population-based survey methods to quantify associations between human rights violations and health outcomes among internally displaced persons in eastern Burma. Author: Mullany LC; Richards AK; Lee CI; Suwanvanichkij V; Maung C Source: Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. 2007 Oct;61(10):908-914. Abstract: Case reports of human rights violations have focused on individuals' experiences. Population-based quantification of associations between rights indicators and health outcomes is rare and has not been documented in eastern Burma. We describe the association between mortality and morbidity and the household-level experience of human rights violations among internally displaced persons in eastern Burma. Mobile health workers in conflict zones of eastern Burma conducted 1834 retrospective household surveys in 2004. Workers recorded data on vital events, mid-upper arm circumference of young children, malaria parasitaemia status of respondents and household experience of various human rights violations during the previous 12 months. Under-5 mortality was 218 (95% confidence interval 135 to 301) per 1000 live births. Almost one-third of households reported forced labour (32.6%). Forced displacement (8.9% of households) was associated with increased child mortality (odds ratio = 2.80), child malnutrition(odds ratio = 3.22) and landmine injury (odds ratio = 3.89). Theft or destruction of the food supply (reported by 25.2% of households) was associated with increased crude mortality (odds ratio = 1.58), malaria parasitaemia (odds ratio = 1.82), child malnutrition (odds ratio = 1.94) and landmine injury (odds ratio = 4.55). Multiple rights violations (14.4% of households) increased the risk of child (incidence rate ratio = 2.18) and crude (incidence rate ratio = 1.75) mortality and the odds of landmine injury (odds ratio = 19.8). Child mortality risk was increased more than fivefold (incidence rate ratio = 5.23) among families reporting three or more rights violations. Widespread human rights violations in conflict zones in eastern Burma are associated with significantly increased morbidity and mortality. Population-level associations can be quantified using standard epidemiological methods. This approach requires further validation and refinement elsewhere. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MYANMAR | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | HUMAN RIGHTS | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | MORTALITY | MORBIDITY | VIOLENCE | FOOD SUPPLY | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Health | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Settlement and Resettlement | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Diseases | Behavior | Natural Resources | Environment Document Number: 320398 |
| 22. Peer Reviewed Title: Use of data from HIV counselling and testing services for HIV surveillance in Africa. Author: Mwaluko G; Wringe A; Todd J; Glynn JR; Crampin AC Source: Lancet. 2007 Feb 17;369(9561):612-613. Abstract: The rapid expansion of antiretroviral treatment for HIV-infected adults, which has been helped by WHO's "3 by 5" strategy, the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, and other international initiatives, demands a scale-up of voluntary HIV counselling and testing services in participating countries. In Tanzania, for example, the expansion aimed to have more than 600 voluntary HIV counselling and testing sites by the end of 2006, representing an increase of almost 250% since 2005. Data-collection activities in voluntary HIV counselling and testing clinics are increasingly expected to fulfill donor-driven reporting requirements that include programme monitoring and assessment. Increases in clinic coverage and recorded indicators, and the desire to measure the effect of HIV-related interventions on the evolution of the epidemic, have led to suggestions to use data from these clinics for HIV and behavioural surveillance. We believe that such use of this data is not appropriate: the data are inherently biased and the function of the clinics could be compromised. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | AFRICA, NORTH | CRITIQUE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | PROVIDERS WITH CLIENTS | HIV TESTING | COUNSELING | MONITORING | DATA COLLECTION | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | CLIENT-STAFF RELATIONS | REFERRAL AND CONSULTATION | Developing Countries | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Evaluation | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Interpersonal Relations | Behavior Document Number: 312229 |
| 23. Title: [A survey instrument for evaluating psychological variables and risky sexual behavior among young adults at two university centers in Mexico] Instrumento para la evaluación de variables psicológicas y comportamientos sexuales de riesgo en jóvenes de dos centros universitarios de México. Author: Pina Lopez JA; Robles Montijo S; Rivera Icedo BM Source: Revista Panamericana de Salud Pública / Pan American Journal of Public Health. 2007 Nov;22(5):295-303. Abstract: The objectives were to measure the psychometric attributes of a survey instrument designed to evaluate historical and context variables that lead to high-risk sexual behaviors among a sample of university students in Mexico. Cross-sectional study of a sample of 1,346 university students in Mexico: 784 from the Sonora State Center for Higher Education in Hermosillo, Sonora, or 33.2% of its total enrollment; and 562 from the National Autonomous University of Mexico, at Tlalnepantla campus in Mexico State, or 23.5% of its total enrollment. The study took place in Hermosillo during the month of October 2006 and in Tlalnepantla from January to March 2006. The survey had 11 questions on sociodemographics, 7 on risky sexual behaviors, 22 on related motives, 8 on social context, and 6 on physical status prior to sexual relations. The survey was evaluated in terms of how well the questions were understood, its conceptual validity, and reliability. The final version of the survey instrument was composed of 44 questions. The reliability analysis produced an overall Cronbach alpha value of 0.821, taking into account all the variables combined and grouped by factor. Three factors were found that together accounted for 38.36% of the total variance: reasons for not using a condom in the first sexual relationship or throughout life, reasons for inconsistent use of a condom with a casual sex partner, and willingness to become sexually active and to engage in casual sex. The psychometric attributes of this survey instrument were found to be satisfactory. Those interested in using this instrument should become familiar with the theoretical model on which it is based, since understanding the results depends on properly defining the historical and context variables, and their interaction. (author's) Spanish Abstract: Probar las propiedades psicométricas de un instrumento de encuesta destinado a evaluar algunas variables históricas y de contexto que facilitan el comportamiento sexual de riesgo en una muestra de estudiantes de dos centros universitarios de México. Estudio transversal con una muestra compuesta por 1 346 estudiantes universitarios de México: 784 del Centro de Estudios Superiores del Estado de Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, (33,2% del total de la matrícula de ese centro) y 562 de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, campus Tlalnepantla, Estado de México (23,5% del total de estudiantes de ese centro). El trabajo se realizó en octubre de 2006 en Hermosillo y entre los meses de enero y marzo de 2006 en Tlalnepantla. La encuesta contenía 11 preguntas sobre datos sociodemográficos, 7 sobre comportamientos sexuales de riesgo, 22 sobre motivos subyacentes, 8 sobre las situaciones sociales y 6 sobre el estado biológico previo a la relación. Se evaluó la capacidad de comprensión de las preguntas, la validez conceptual y la confiabilidad del instrumento. La versión definitiva del instrumento quedó constituida por 44 preguntas. En el análisis de confiabilidad se obtuvo un valor alpha de Cronbach global de 0,821, considerando todas las variables en su conjunto y agrupadas por factores. Se encontraron tres factores (motivos para no usar preservativos en la primera relación sexual y a lo largo de la vida, motivos del uso inconsistente de preservativos con parejas ocasionales y disposición hacia la primera relación sexual y hacia la relación con parejas ocasionales) que en su conjunto explicaron 38,36% de la varianza total. Las propiedades psicométricas del instrumento de encuesta evaluado fueron satisfactorias. Los interesados en aplicar este instrumento deben familiarizarse con el modelo teórico que lo sustenta, ya que la interpretación de los resultados se basa en las definiciones de las diferentes variables históricas y de contexto contempladas y en su interacción. (del autor) Language: Spanish Keywords: MEXICO | UNIVERSITIES | STUDENTS | SURVEYS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | SEX BEHAVIOR | RISK BEHAVIOR | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Schools | Education | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Behavior Document Number: 323882 |
| 24. Title: Accessing married adolescent women: the realities of ethnographic research in an urban slum environment in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Author: Rashid SF Source: Field Methods. 2007 Nov;19(4):369-383. Abstract: This article reports on the problem of obtaining reproductive histories from women in the slums of Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Access to women in these slums is controlled by several gatekeepers. The gatekeeper problem is common in all field research, but is particularly difficult when the research involves interviewing young Muslim women on the sensitive issue of reproductive health and family planning. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | SLUMS | FIELD REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | CURRENTLY MARRIED | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | INTERVIEWS | OBSTACLES | DRUG USE AND ABUSE | VIOLENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Urbanization | Urban Population Distribution | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Health | Data Collection | Organization and Administration | Behavior Document Number: 308876 |
| 25. Title: Response to letter to editor [letter] Author: Schunmann C Source: Contraception. 2007 Jan;75(1):79. Abstract: We thank Dr. Barrett for her comments regarding our recent published manuscript and are in agreement that it would have been better to use the whole instrument. We also acknowledge that a validated instrument cannot necessarily be held valid if it has been changed without revalidation in its new format. We can only say that where reservations existed about the possibility of upsetting subjects, we felt it better to proceed with a part of the measure than not using it at all whilst accepting that the data and our conclusions should be viewed with a degree of caution. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED KINGDOM | CRITIQUE | ABORTION | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | RELIABILITY | VALIDITY | Europe, Western | Europe | Developed Countries | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Measurement Document Number: 310444 Notification |
| 26. Peer Reviewed Title: Generations and Gender Survey (GGS): Towards a better understanding of relationships and processes in the life course. Author: Vikat A; Speder Z; Beets G; Billari FC; Buhler C Source: Demographic Research. 2007 Nov 30;17(14):389-440. Abstract: The Generations and Gender Survey (GGS) is one of the two pillars of the Generations and Gender Programme designed to improve understanding of demographic and social development and of the factors that influence these developments. This article describes how the theoretical perspectives applied in the survey, the survey design and the questionnaire are related to this objective. The key features of the survey include panel design, multidisciplinarity, comparability, context-sensitivity, inter-generational and gender relationships. The survey applies the life course approach, focussing on the processes of childbearing, partnership dynamics, home leaving, and retiring. The selection of topics for data collection mainly follows the criterion of theoretically grounded relevance to explaining one or more of the mentioned processes. A large portion of the survey deals with economic aspects of life, such as economic activity, income, and economic well-being; a comparably large section is devoted to values and attitudes. Other domains covered by the survey include gender relationships, household composition and housing, residential mobility, social networks and private transfers, education, health, and public transfers. The third chapter of the article describes the motivations for their inclusion. The GGS questionnaire is designed for a face-to-face interview. It includes the core that each participating country needs to implement in full, and four optional submodules on nationality and ethnicity, on previous partners, on intentions of breaking up, and on housing, respectively. The participating countries are encouraged to include also the optional sub-modules to facilitate comparative research on these topics. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | SURVEYS | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | VALUE ORIENTATION | ATTITUDES | GENDER RELATIONS | FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN | UN | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Gender Issues | Sociocultural Factors | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors Document Number: 313995 |
| 27. Title: Symptom burden of fatigue in men and women living with HIV / AIDS in Southern Africa. Author: Voss JG; Sukati NA; Seboni NM; Makoae LN; Moleko M Source: Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care. 2007 Jul-Aug;18(4):22-31. Abstract: HIV-related fatigue is a debilitating and disabling symptom that persists for months and years. In 743 HIV/AIDS patients from Southern Africa, the authors found ratings of HIV-related fatigue to be highly prevalent. The authors conducted a secondary data analysis within the theoretical context of the University of California, San Francisco Symptom Management Model. The analysis focused on 538 patients who reported fatigue to investigate correlates and predictors of fatigue severity in relationship to demographic and HIV/AIDS illness indicators, as well as HIV-specific physical and psychological symptoms. A hierarchical regression model explored the contributions of those five blocks on fatigue severity. Of the 47% of the total variance in fatigue severity, a combination of variables within the health and illness block (6%), the physical symptoms block (7%) and the psychological symptom block (2%) contributed significantly to the increase in fatigue severity scores. Fatigue severity in Southern Africa was moderate, and the factors contributing to the perceived fatigue were most likely related to symptoms of acute HIV disease (such as fever and gastrointestinal problems). In conclusion, fatigue severity is less impacted by demographic or environmental variables but much more by co-occurring symptoms and HIV disease severity. The results of this study imply the need for more research to understand if improvements in water quality and access to food would prevent infection and diarrhea and whether sufficient access to antiretroviral treatments to manage the HIV infection would improve fatigue and co-occurring symptom profiles. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SOUTHERN | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | FATIGUE | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | Developing Countries | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 313732 |
| 28. Title: Conducting in-depth interviews: a guide for designing and conducting in-depth interviews for evaluation input. Author: Boyce C; Neale P Source: Watertown, Massachusetts, Pathfinder International, 2006 May. 12 p. (Pathfinder International Tool Series. Monitoring and Evaluation No. 2) Abstract: In-depth interviewing is a qualitative research technique that involves conducting intensive individual interviews with a small number of respondents to explore their perspectives on a particular idea, program, or situation. For example, we might ask participants, staff, and others associated with a program about their experiences and expectations related to the program, the thoughts they have concerning program operations, processes, and outcomes, and about any changes they perceive in themselves as a result of their involvement in the program. In-depth interviews are useful when you want detailed information about a person's thoughts and behaviors or want to explore new issues in depth. Interviews are often used to provide context to other data (such as outcome data), offering a more complete picture of what happened in the program and why. For example, you may have measured an increase in youth visits to a clinic, and through in-depth interviews you find out that a youth noted that she went to the clinic because she saw a new sign outside of the clinic advertising youth hours. You might also interview a clinic staff member to find out their perspective on the clinic's "youth friendliness." In-depth interviews should be used in place of focus groups if the potential participants may not be included or comfortable talking openly in a group, or when you want to distinguish individual (as opposed to group) opinions about the program. They are often used to refine questions for future surveys of a particular group. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | TEACHING MATERIALS | STUDY DESIGN | INTERVIEWERS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | PROGRAM EVALUATION | INTERVIEWS | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Survey Personnel | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Programs | Organization and Administration | Data Collection Document Number: 309440 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Using standarized methods for research on HIV and injecting drug use in developing / transitional countries: case study from the WHO Drug Injection Study. Author: Des Jarlais DD; Perlis TE; Stimson GV; Poznyak V Source: BMC Public Health. 2006 Mar 2;6(1):54. Abstract: Successful cross-national research requires methods that are both standardized across sites and adaptable to local conditions. We report on the development and implementation of the methodology underlying the survey component of the WHO Drug Injection Study Phase II - a multi-site study of risk behavior and HIV seroprevalence among Injecting Drug Users (IDUs). Standardized operational guidelines were developed by the Survey Coordinating Center in collaboration with the WHO Project Officer and participating site Investigators. Throughout the duration of the study, survey implementation at the local level was monitored by the Coordinating Center. Surveys were conducted in 12 different cities. Prior rapid assessment conducted in 10 cities provided insight into local context and guided survey implementation. Where possible, subjects were recruited both from drug abuse treatment centers and via street outreach. While emphasis was on IDUs, non-injectors were also recruited in cities with substantial non-injecting use of injectable drugs. A structured interview and HIV counseling/testing were administered. Over 5,000 subjects were recruited. Subjects were recruited from both drug treatment and street outreach in 10 cities. Non-injectors were recruited in nine cities. Prior rapid assessment identified suitable recruitment areas, reduced drug users' distrust of survey staff, and revealed site-specific risk behaviors. Centralized survey coordination facilitated local questionnaire modification within a core structure, standardized data collection protocols, uniform database structure, and cross-site analyses. Major site-specific problems included: questionnaire translation difficulties; locating affordable HIV-testing facilities; recruitment from drug treatment due to limited/selective treatment infrastructure; access to specific sub-groups of drug users in the community, particularly females or higher income groups; security problems for users and interviewers, hostility from local drug dealers; and interference by local service providers. Rapid assessment proved invaluable in paving the way for the survey. Central coordination of data collection is crucial. While fully standardized methods may be a research ideal, local circumstances may require substantial adaptation of the methods to achieve meaningful local representation. Allowance for understanding of local context may increase rather than decrease the generalizability of the data. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | IV DRUG USERS | WHO | Studies | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Drug Use and Abuse | Behavior | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 297381 |
| 30. Title: Using STI biomarkers to validate the reporting of sexual behavior within an experimental evaluation of interviewing methods. Author: Hewett PC; Mensch BS; Ribeiro MC; Jones H; Lippman S Source: [Unpublished] 2006. Presented at the 2006 Annual Meeting of the Population Association of America, Los Angeles, California, March 30 - April 1, 2006. 15 p. Abstract: This paper will examine data from an experimental study evaluating home versus clinic based screening and diagnosis for STIs among women visiting a primary care clinic in São Paulo, Brazil. In addition to evaluating diagnostic technologies for STI, the study included an experimental evaluation of the use of computerized interviewing for obtaining more accurate reporting of sexual and other risk behaviors. In addition to random assignment to home or clinic based screening for STIs, women were randomized to be interviewed at enrollment in either a face-to-face (FTF) interviewer-administered survey or an audio-computer assisted self-interview (ACASI). Along with background demographic characteristics, the enrollment interview included questions about recent sexual activity and condom use, as well as specific information about each participants last three sexual partners. Biological specimens were obtained for gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis. The objectives of this paper are to evaluate differentials in reporting of sensitive behaviors by interview mode (FTF and ACASI), and to discern whether the STI biomarkers can provide additional leverage in evaluating the validity of behavioral reporting. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | INTERVIEWS | SEX BEHAVIOR | RISK BEHAVIOR | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | HIV TRANSMISSION | PREVALENCE | DATA REPORTING | DATA QUALITY | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | COMPUTER PROGRAMS AND PROGRAMMING | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Behavior | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Measurement | Data Analysis | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Information Processing | Information Document Number: 318895 |
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