Showing papers by "Japan International Cooperation Agency published in 2006"

Control of Chagas disease.

Abstract: The Southern Cone Initiative (Iniciativa de Salud del Cono Sur, INCOSUR) to control domestic transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi is a substantial achievement based on the enthusiasm of the scientific community, effective strategies, leadership, and cost-effectiveness. INCOSUR triggered the launch of other regional initiatives in Central America and in the Andean and Amazon regions, which have all made progress. The Central American Initiative targeted the elimination of an imported triatomine bug (Rhodnius prolixus) and the control of a widespread native species (Triatoma dimidiata), and faced constraints such as a small scientific community, the difficulty in controlling a native species, and a vector control programme that had fragmented under a decentralized health system. International organizations such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have played an important role in bridging the gaps between fragmented organizational resources. Guatemala achieved virtual elimination of R. prolixus and ;reduction of Tri. Dimidiata and El Salvador and Honduras revitalized their national programmes. The programme also revealed new challenges. Tri. dimidiata control needs to cover a large geographic area efficiently with stratification, quality control, community mobilization, and information management. Stakeholders such as the National Chagas Program, the local health system and their communities, as well as local government must share responsibilities to continue comprehensive vector control.

Ecologists can enable communities to implement malaria vector control in Africa

Abstract: Integrated vector management (IVM) for malaria control requires ecological skills that are very scarce and rarely applied in Africa today. Partnerships between communities and academic ecologists can address this capacity deficit, modernize the evidence base for such approaches and enable future scale up. Community-based IVM programmes were initiated in two contrasting settings. On Rusinga Island, Western Kenya, community outreach to a marginalized rural community was achieved by University of Nairobi through a community-based organization. In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Ilala Municipality established an IVM programme at grassroots level, which was subsequently upgraded and expanded into a pilot scale Urban Malaria Control Programme with support from national academic institutes. Both programmes now access relevant expertise, funding and policy makers while the academic partners benefit from direct experience of community-based implementation and operational research opportunities. The communities now access up-to-date malaria-related knowledge and skills for translation into local action. Similarly, the academic partners have acquired better understanding of community needs and how to address them. Until sufficient evidence is provided, community-based IVM remains an operational research activity. Researchers can never directly support every community in Africa so community-based IVM strategies and tactics will need to be incorporated into undergraduate teaching programmes to generate sufficient numbers of practitioners for national scale programmes. Academic ecologists at African institutions are uniquely positioned to enable the application of practical environmental and entomological skills for malaria control by communities at grassroots level and should be supported to fulfil this neglected role.

Indonesian Lesson Study in Practice: Case Study of Indonesian Mathematics and Science Teacher Education Project.

Abstract: This paper presents a case study of the experiences under the Indonesian Mathematics and Science Teacher Education Project (IMSTEP) concerning in‐service teacher training through the practice of lesson study collaboratively conducted by schools and universities. The purpose of the case study is two‐fold: first, to examine the changes in teaching practices through the introduction of lesson study under IMSTEP; and, second, to uncover the challenges faced in implementing lesson study under IMSTEP. The results of the analysis revealed that the lessons underwent three changes: (1) a change in the academic base of the lessons, brought about by close liaison between university faculty members; (2) a change in the structure of the lesson by the introduction of experiments or manual activities and discussions; and (3) a change in the reactions of students during the lesson. However, two insights emerged during the IMSTEP case study as tasks to be addressed in order to further develop the practice of lesson study....

Risk factors for iron-deficiency anaemia among pregnant women living in rural Vietnam

Abstract: The objective was to assess the prevalence of anaemia in rural Vietnam and to determine its risk factors. Design: A cross-sectional survey. Setting: Vietnam Nghe An Province. Study population: The total number of participants was 439. Of these participants one was excluded from the study due to a mental disorder. Forty-seven did not participate in the test for parasites and 68 did not complete at least one of the questions. The prevalence of anaemia (haemoglobin (Hb) < 11.0 g dl/-1) was 43.2% and of severe anaemia (Hb < 8.0 g dl/-1) was 0.5%. Taking iron tablets the consumption of eggs and the preference for Western medicine significantly and positively correlated with Hb concentration in the pregnant women in a multiple regression analysis. Pregnancy duration and hookworm infestation significantly and negatively correlated with Hb concentration in the pregnant women. The prevalence of anaemia in rural Vietnam has remained as high as that found in the national anaemia survey in 2000. The results of the present study could aid in the development of an iron-deficiency anaemia programme among pregnant women in rural Vietnam that emphasises iron supplementation parasite control and improved diet including the consumption of eggs. The programmes focus should be on women who prefer traditional medicine to Western medicine. (authors)

Genotyping and Pathogenicity of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus from Free-Living Turbot (Psetta maxima) in a Turkish Coastal Area of the Black Sea

Abstract: Viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) is one of the most serious fish viral diseases for cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), although VHS virus (VHSV) seems to be ubiquitous among marine fishes. In the present study, VHSV isolation was performed with free-living and cultured turbot (Psetta maxima) in the Trabzon coastal area of the Black Sea to evaluate participation of VHSV in mass mortalities of seed-produced turbot larvae. VHSV was detected in 14 of 66 free-living spawners (positive ratio, 21.2%), 1 of 65 free-living immature fish (1.5%) and 7 of 40 cultured brood stock (17.5%), respectively. Based on a partial glycoprotein gene nucleotide sequence, Turkish VHSV isolates were classified into the class I-e of genotype I and were the most closely related to the GE-1.2 isolate (>98% identity), which was found >20 years ago in Georgia. Thus, it was revealed that Turkish VHSV isolates were not introduced from European countries, it could be an indigenous type of VHSV distributing in the Black Sea environment. In pathogenicity tests, the Turkish isolates did not induce mortality in turbot larvae and rainbow trout fingerlings. Mass mortalities at a rate of approximately 90% occurred in turbot larvae produced by experimental seeding, although VHSV was not detected in any dead fish. Thus, it was concluded that mass mortality in the seed-produced turbot larvae was not caused by VHSV infection.

Why do adult women in Vietnam take iron tablets

Abstract: Conducting iron supplementation programs has been a major strategy to reduce iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy. However, only a few countries have reported improvements in the anemia rate at a national level. The strategies used for control of nutrition problems need regular review to maintain and improve their effectiveness. The objective of this study was to analyze the factors in compliance with taking iron tablets, where daily doses of iron (60 mg) and folic acid (400 μg) were distributed in rural Vietnamese communes. A cross sectional survey was conducted in Nghe An province, Vietnam in January, 2003. The study population was adult women aged less than 35 years who delivered babies between August 1st 2001 and December 1st 2002 (n = 205), of which 159 took part in the study. Data for the study were collected from a series of workshops with community leaders, focus group discussions with community members and a questionnaire survey. Improvements in the rate of anemia was not given a high priority as one of the commune's needs, but the participants still made efforts to continue taking iron tablets. Two major factors motivated the participants to continue taking iron tablets; their experience of fewer spells of dizziness (50%), and their concern for the health of their newborn baby (54%). When examining the reasons for taking iron tablets for at least 5–9 months, the most important factor was identified as 'a frequent supply of iron tablets' (OR = 11.93, 95% CI: 4.33–32.85). The study found that multiple poor environmental risk factors discouraged women from taking iron tablets continuously. The availability (frequent supply) of iron tablets was the most effective way to help adult women to continue taking iron tablets.

Development of school-based in-service training under the Indonesian Mathematics and Science Teacher Education Project®

Abstract: This article aims to investigate how to involve the entire school in in-service training (INSET) by means of a case study It examines the cases in the Indonesian Mathematics and Science Teacher Education Project (IMSTEP) The results suggest that great emphasis be placed on various factors in order to develop INSET in the Indonesian context, particularly as a school-based training programme First, the function of key persons is important They are capable of initiating informal, yet genuine, sharing of experiences with their colleagues Thus, the principal’s commitment is essential Depending on the principal’s support and facilitation, the informal sharing of experiences can develop into a movement of professional development for teachers throughout the entire school Furthermore, the collegial interests are also important In the lesson study implemented under INSET, it is necessary for participants to cultivate the attitudes of mutual learning

Quantity and distribution of continuing professional education opportunities among healthcare workers in Ghana.

Abstract: Background Despite their importance, continuing professional education opportunities have been rarely addressed in literature. This study explains how continuing professional education opportunities among the healthcare workers in Ghana are distributed. Method A census was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire (N = 6,696). Three focus group discussions with a total of 23 healthcare workers were undertaken. Results The study found that the quantities of continuing professional education opportunities were unequally distributed. The total continuing professional education opportunities were greater than the target of the Ministry of Health but fewer than healthcare workers' demand. Type of occupational group was the major determinant of continuing professional education opportunities. Conclusion To ensure homogeneously appropriate quality of services, continuing professional education opportunities should be equally distributed.

An assessment survey of anti-tuberculosis drug management in Cambodia.

Abstract: CONTEXTE : Il s'agit de 107 services de sante publique comportant un service TB et de 66 pharmacies privees dans 14 provinces. OBJECTIFS: Evaluer les connaissances, las attitudes et les pratiques (KAP) des pourvoyeurs de service TB, des nouveaux patients externes atteints de TB pulmonaire a bacilloscopie positive (SS+) et des vendeurs de medicaments ; documenter les pratiques existant dans le systeme d'approvisionnement en medicaments TB du secteur public ; mesurer la disponibilite des medicaments TB dans les pharmacies privees ; et comparer les prix des medicaments TB des secteurs public et prive avec les prix internationaux. SCHEMA: Revision de documents et de dossiers de traitement, controles d'inventaire et interviews structurees. RESULTATS: Les pratiques des pourvoyeurs de services TB en matiere de prescription sont acceptables. Les nouveaux patients TB externes a bacilloscopie positive ont un niveau de connaissance elevee au sujet du traitement de la TB. Les pratiques d'inventaires des vendeurs de medicaments pour les medicaments TB suggerent la necessite d'une amelioration. Divers medicaments TB sont disponibles dans les pharmacies privees. Dans le secteur public, les prix des medicaments TB sont similaires a ceux de la reference internationale bien qu'ils soient plus eleves que les prix du Dispositif Mondial pour l'Approvisionnement en Medicaments. CONCLUSIONS: Une enquete d'evaluation de la prise en charge des medicaments basee sur un indicateur peut mesurer la situation actuelle et la qualite du DOTS en identifiant les faiblesses ou les ecarts par rapport a la norme et en servant en meme temps de base pour la formation des pourvoyeurs de services TB et les vendeurs de medicaments.

Altitudinal zonation of vegetation in the Padang region, West Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract: The altitudinal gradient of vegetation of the Barisan range in a coastal region near Padang, West Sumatra, was studied in 10 plots (0.1-6.55 ha) distributed from 600 to 1780 m. Trees with a diameter at breast height of more than 10 cm were employed for classification of the vegetation. Four vegetation zones, two types of montane and two types of lowland vegetation, were recognized based on cluster analysis, floristic information, and the physiognomy of these forest stands. An upper zone of montane vegetation (Lower montane Fago-Myrtaceous forest) was distinguishable from a lower zone (Sub-montane Fago-Myrtaceous forest) due to the remarkable dominance of several species of Fagaceae and Myrtaceae, and its lower canopy height. The two zones of lowland vegetation (Upper hill dipterocarp forest and Mid-hill dipterocarp forest) were distinguishable by their species composition of Dipterocarpaceae and stratification of the stand. The altitudinal zonation corresponded well with classic zonation patterns previously reported for West Malesia, but the critical threshold altitudes were lower in comparison with those in other regions. The borderline between the lowland and montane vegetation, corresponding to a Kira’s warmth index of WI = 180 °C · month, was around 200 m lower in Padang than in other regions of West Malesia, and the critical altitude between the two zones of lowland vegetation was also around 300 m lower in Padang than on Mt. Kinabalu. The characteristics of altitudinal zonation in Padang were discussed with reference to the climatic features of this region, namely, the low temperature and hyperhumidity.

Immunity against tetanus and effect of vaccination in Turkey

Abstract: The immune status against tetanus in relation to vaccination was investigated among healthy populations in 3 selected provinces in Turkey (n=2094). In-house ELISA supplemented with the particle agglutination test was performed for this purpose. An exact correlation was found between vaccination status and immunity against tetanus. The immunity was high among children and sharply decreased with age among adults. The primary vaccination for children increased the immunity, reaching a geometric mean titer (GMT) of 6.2 IU/ml at the fourth dose. There was a reduction of immunity during the next y, followed by an increase with a booster injection at primary school age. Among adolescents and adults, the GMTs after the last vaccination fell off exponentially with a slope of -0.068 log10 IU/ml per y. Extrapolation of the regression line predicted that the minimum protective level (> or =0.01 IU/ml) would be maintained for approximately 30 y on average after the last vaccination. Diyarbakir, 1 of the selected provinces, had lower immunity than the other 2 provinces with poor immunization. Adult females tended to show slightly higher GMTs than males, probably due to the neonatal tetanus elimination program. Reinforcement of immunization against tetanus for adults is recommended.

Intratree Variability of Wood Density and Main Wood Mechanical Properties in Chinese Fir and Poplar Plantation

Abstract: Chinese Fir and poplar are very popular plantation species in China. Better understanding of the variability of mechanical properties within a tree will result in economic and effective utilization of these two species. The MOR(modulus of rupture), MOE(modulus of elasticity), compression strength parallel to grain, shear strength parallel to grain and wood density were studied. The results showed: The MOR, compression strength parallel to grain and wood density of Chinese Fir increased wavelike from butt to top while MOE decreased contrarily. They had no statistically significant difference (at 5% level) between heights. Outer wood had higher properties than core wood, and all physic-mechanical properties had a statistically significant (at 1% level) different between core wood and outer wood. Only the MOE of I-214 poplar wood increased steadily from pith to bark, and the MOR in north direction had the same trend. As to other physic-mechanical properties, the lowest value appeared in the transition section while the highest value appeared near the bark. All the physic-mechanical properties had a statistically significant (at 1% level) different between position from pith to bark. Shear strength of core wood was lower than outer wood in radial section, and there was a statistically significant (at 1% level) difference between core wood and outer wood, not only Chinese Fir but also I-214 poplar. On the other hand, the shear strength of core wood was a little higher than outer wood in tangential section, but they had no statistically significant difference. Wood density had positive linear relationship with other mechanical properties, so wood density proved to be a good predictor for wood quality.

Temporal dynamics of dairy health and production in rural smallholder communities in Northern Vietnam.

Abstract: The objective of this field study was to describe the temporal pattern of dairy cattle health and production and associated risk factors in rural smallholder communities in northern Vietnam, one of the target areas of the government's dairy development programme. A total of 99 dairy farms (11 per commune) were recruited from 9 of 32 communes in Ba Vi District, Ha Tay Province, using random two-stage cluster sampling. All dairy cattle present on the selected farms were included. After the initial questionnaire survey was conducted, farms were visited to collect follow-up information at 3-monthly intervals over a period of one year. The results suggest that offtake as well as mortality are important productivity indices because farmers sell or slaughter dairy cattle that are in poor health at low prices during summer months. Changes in relation to the farming operation suggest that for the farmers adopting dairy production it has become one of the main agricultural activities.

Preliminary survey and diet analysis of seagrass bed fishes at Mauritius, western Indian Ocean

Abstract: Fish faunas and diets were examined in Halodule uninervis- and Syringodium isoetifolium-dominated seagrass beds at Mauritius, western Indian Ocean, in March 2002. A total of 37 fish species (representing 16 families) were collected, 26 (14 families) of them occurring in the H. uninervis-bed and 26 (13 families) in the S. isoetifolium-bed, with 15 (10 families) common to both beds. Fishes were mainly juveniles, dominant families with regard to both species and individual numbers being Apogonidae, Mullidae, Labridae, Scaridae and Gobiidae. Zoobenthivores comprised the most dominant feeding type in both seagrass beds, harpacticoid copepods and gammaridean amphipods being the most important food resources for those fishes.

Sediment and water contamination with mercury caused by industrial waste and waste water in Oued El Harrach, Alger

Abstract: Mitsuo Yoshida; Senior Advisor, Institute for International Cooperation, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), 10-5, Ichigaya Honmuracho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8433, JAPAN Tel:03-3269-3851 FAX:03-3269-6992 e-mail:Yoshida.Mitsuo.2@jica.go.jp

Understanding Perceptions Regarding Availability, Quality, Status and Methods Used in Storing Fruits and Vegetables in Pakistan′s Dera Ismail Khan District

Abstract: This paper presents the results of a survey on the situation of farmers, their problems and feasibility of heat stress techniques during storage of fruits and vegetables in Pakistan. In addition, consumer perception was also surveyed regarding availability and quality of stored fruits and vegetables. The survey, which was conducted at Dera Ismail Khan District of Pakistan's North West Frontier Province during 2004, revealed that most of the farmers sell all their produce in the market just after harvest. This might be either due to the unavailability of storage facilities or the high cost to store low and medium value fruits/vegetables. High electricity costs and frequent power cuts further raised the storage prices. However, among different methods practiced locally, sun drying was the most popular method. Regarding consumer perception, the majority were not satisfied about availability of fruits and vegetables in the market all the year round. Lack of storage facilities, damages that occurred during transportation, improper packaging, the role of middlemen, and huge influx of produce in a short time were the major reasons given for reducing availability of fruits and vegetables to consumers on the one hand and lowering returns to growers on the other. The growers demanded subsidized governmental storage facilities to store their agricultural commodities.