scholarly journals Outcome of Tuberculosis Treatment: A Comparison between Alberta and Nicaragua

2000 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 85-88 ◽  
Author(s):  
Narmin Kassam ◽  
Anne Fanning ◽  
Jose Ramon Cruz ◽  
Alejandro Tardencilla
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
High Income ◽  
Tuberculosis Treatment ◽  
Sputum Smear ◽  
Low Income Country ◽  
National Tuberculosis Program ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
National Tuberculosis ◽  
Low Incidence ◽  
Cure Rates

OBJECTIVE: To measure the outcome of tuberculosis treatment in a low incidence, high income region, Alberta, and compare with an intermediate incidence, low income country with a model national tuberculosis program, Nicaragua.DESIGN: All 1992 sputum smear-positive pulmonary cases from both regions were included. Treatment outcome was assigned retrospectively to Alberta cases according to the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases' (IUATLD) criteria of cure, failure, transfer, absconder and death.SETTING: Alberta laboratories are required to report allMycobacterium tuberculosiscultures to Alberta provincial tuberculosis services. Nicaragua cases are reported centrally to the Programa de control de tuberculosis in Managua using the IUATLD criteria.MAIN RESULTS: In Alberta, 222 tuberculosis cases were identified, of which 61 were smear positive. Nicaragua had 1552 smear positive cases of 2885 tuberculosis cases. Alberta's outcomes were 82% cured, no failed treatment, 5% absconded, 2% transferred and 11% died; Nicaragua's outcomes were 77% cured, 2% failed, 13% absconded, 5% transferred and 4% died. There was no significant difference in cure rates between Alberta and Nicaragua, P=0.33.CONCLUSIONS: Treatment outcomes can be measured effectively and reported in high income, low incidence settings. Alberta is achieving comparable cure rates with the Nicaraguan national tuberculosis program.

Comparative Analysis of Mobile Pain Management Applications in Developed versus Developing Countries (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wilson Mupfururirwa ◽  
Victoria Nembaware ◽  
Jack Morrice ◽  
Khuthala Mnika ◽  
Gaston Kuzamunu Mazandu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pain Management ◽  
Uniform Distribution ◽  
Mobile Health ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Cochrane Review ◽  
High Income ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
App Store ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
The Impact

BACKGROUND The impact of mobile phones and their applications in healthcare (mobile health) is well established for a range of diseases and cross-cutting complications, such as pain. While numerous mobile health (mHealth) pain interventions have been established, an evaluation of their prevalence, adequacy and distribution remains limited. OBJECTIVE This study aims at reviewing and comparing current pain management mHealth tools in high- versus low-income countries. METHODS A literature and application (app) store search was conducted in May 2021 using combinations of the following keywords: “pain management”, “pain”, “mobile health”, “telemedicine”, and “app”. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Review Library, and Google scholar. App store searches were conducted in Google Play and Apple App Store. Data characteristics descriptive analysis was performed using R software to summarize different datasets and compute p-values (P) for testing the significance of different hypotheses with the significance level set to 0.05. RESULTS The search identified 40 publications (literature search) and 230 mHealth applications (app store search), revealing a non uniform distribution of search categories (χ2= 133.7, P < 0.004) with a ratio approximating 1:6 (OR = 5.730, 95%CI:3.745-8.909, P < 0.004). About 86.7% of these 270 applications (apps) are from high-income countries, showing a statistically significant non uniform distribution of country categories: high- and low-income (χ2= 145.2, P < 0.004) approximating the theoretical distribution of a 7:1 ratio (OR = 6.476, 95%CI:4.180-10.222, P < 0.004). Moreover, there is no significant difference in the proportion of search categories between country categories ( χ2= 0.113, P = 0.737) and the difference in pain app prevalence in high- versus low-income countries is not statistically significant. Finally, we have observed that pain-tracking apps are significantly more prevalent in developed countries in comparison to low-income countries. CONCLUSIONS As expected, pain management app prevalence is higher in high-income countries. However, more research is required to readily comprehend the effectiveness of these apps.

scholarly journals GLOBAL POVERTY REDUCTION AND PARETO-IMPROVING REDISTRIBUTION

2011 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 605-624 ◽  
Author(s):  
Angus C. Chu
Keyword(s):  
Open Economy ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Developed Countries ◽  
The United States ◽  
High Income ◽  
Income Country ◽  
Least Developed Countries ◽  
Low Income Country ◽  
Wealth Redistribution ◽  
Pareto Improving

Can a transfer of wealth from the United States to the least developed countries be Pareto improving? We analyze this question in an open-economy R&D-based growth model, in which the high-income (low-income) country produces innovative (homogeneous) goods. We find that wealth redistribution to the low-income country simultaneously reduces global inequality and increases economic growth through an increase in labor supply in the high-income country. Given that the market equilibrium of R&D-based growth models is usually inefficient due to R&D externalities, the wealth redistribution may lead to a Pareto improvement, which occurs if the discount rate is sufficiently low or R&D productivity is sufficiently high.

scholarly journals Digital technology use in ELT classrooms and self-directed learning

2016 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 51 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nehir Sert ◽  
Ebru Boynueğri
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Digital Technology ◽  
Technology Use ◽  
High Income ◽  
Mixed Group ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Income Groups ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Directed Learning

The digital era is a new challenge for teachers. While children get acquainted with digital technology before the age of six, teachers, who have encountered the digital world at a later time in their lives, struggle with it. Self-directed learning, which is crucial for lifelong learning, can be enhanced by the use of technology within and beyond classroom settings. The aim of this study was to examine the difference between the perceptions of students in low- and high-income groups about their use of technology in a general sense and their teachers’ use of technology in ELT classrooms. It also tested the correlation between the perceptions of their self-directed learning behaviours and their own/their teachers’ technology use. The population of the study consisted of 75 students from high- and 70 students from low-income groups. Causal comparative and correlational research methods were adopted in the study. The surveys to measure the students’ perceptions about technology use were developed by the researchers. A scale, established by Demirtas and Sert (2010), was used to identify the level of self-directed learning views of the students. The data were collected at the beginning of the first term of the 2015-2016 school year. The results indicated that there was no significant difference between perceptions of the low- and high-income students regarding their own technology use. Likewise, perceptions of the low- and high-income students did not differ regarding their teachers’ technology use. There was no correlation between the perceptions of the low-/high-income mixed group regarding their use of technology and their teachers’ use of technology. Lastly, self-directed learning perceptions of the low-/high-income mixed group did not correlate with their perceptions on any aspects of technology use. The educational implications of these results were discussed and suggestions were put forward in order to produce more effective learning environments. Keywords: Digital technology, self-directed learning, ELT

scholarly journals Effectiveness of transverse speed reducers and exploring factors contributing to road traffic crashes on a rural two-lane highway: A mixed methods study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nigus Asefa ◽  
Hannah S Yang ◽  
Znabu H Kahsay ◽  
Abrahim Hassen ◽  
Tesfay G Gebrehiwot
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Road Traffic ◽  
High Income ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
P Value ◽  
Interrupted Time Series Analysis ◽  
Traffic Crashes ◽  
Road Traffic Crashes ◽  
Significant Difference

Abstract Background: In Ethiopia, there are an estimated 25.3 road traffic related deaths per 100,000 population, which is much higher than the global average road traffic fatality rate. Speed is the most well-known risk factor influencing both the risk as well as the severity of the resulting injuries. Although there is paucity of data from low-income countries, speed reducers have been widely approved as an effective traffic calming countermeasure in high-income countries. We aimed to (i) explore the effectiveness of transverse vertical speed reducers and, (ii) qualitatively explore stakeholders’ perceptions of the factors that affect the risk of road traffic crashes.Methods: Data on all crashes occurring from September 2010 to August 2015 were obtained. Interrupted time series analysis using Poisson regression was used to estimate the effect of speed reducers on the number of crashes per month before and after their installation in January 2012. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted with traffic police, drivers, drivers’ training center owners, and community members to describe their perceptions about the effects of the speed reducers. Quantitative and qualitative results were triangulated.Results: There were 130 crashes during the study period. Of these, 45.4% were property damage only, and 16.9% were fatal. After the speed reducers were installed, there was no statistically significant difference (incidence rate ratio, IRR =1.17, 95% CI[0.60-2.30], p-value =0.644) in the number of crashes per month, but there were changes in the distribution of crash severity (p-value <0.001). Four core themes, with subsequent sub-themes, emerged as perceived contributors to road traffic crashes. Of these core-themes, speedy and reckless driving, were perceived as the strongest force perpetuating road collisions. Qualitative respondents disagreed on whether the speed reducers were effective and expressed concerns such as the lack of signage to warn drivers.Conclusions: Although speed reducers are proven to reduce collisions in high-income settings, this study in Ethiopia was inconclusive. Inappropriate design for the roadway type, sporadic placement, lack of signage and maintenance, and poor stakeholder coordination may have hampered effectiveness. An evidence-based planning process prior to implementing road design interventions is recommended to achieve the desired results.

scholarly journals Tuberculosis Diagnosis Delaying Treatment of Cancer: Experience From a New Oncology Unit in Blantyre, Malawi

2016 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 26-29 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leo Peter Lockie Masamba ◽  
Yankho Jere ◽  
Ewan Russell Stewart Brown ◽  
Dermot Robert Gorman
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Clinical Problem ◽  
Neck Mass ◽  
Sub Saharan Africa ◽  
Tuberculosis Treatment ◽  
Central Hospital ◽  
Low Income Country ◽  
Oncology Unit ◽  
Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital

Purpose Malawi is a low-income country in sub-Saharan Africa with limited health care infrastructure and high prevalance of HIV and tuberculosis. This study aims to determine the characteristics of patients presenting to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital Oncology Unit, Blantyre, Malawi, who had been treated for tuberculosis before they were diagnosed with cancer. Methods Clinical data on all patients presenting to the oncology unit at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital from 2010 to 2014 after a prior diagnosis of tuberculosis were prospectively recorded, and a descriptive analysis was undertaken. Results Thirty-four patients who had been treated for tuberculosis before being diagnosed with cancer were identified between 2010 and 2014, which represents approximately 1% of new referrals to the oncology unit. Forty-one percent of patients were HIV positive. Mean duration of tuberculosis treatment before presentation to the oncology unit was 3.6 months. The most common clinical presentation was a neck mass or generalized lymphadenopathy. Lymphoma was the most common malignancy that was subsequently diagnosed in 23 patients. Conclusion Misdiagnosis of cancer as tuberculosis is a significant clinical problem in Malawi. This study underlines the importance of closely monitoring the response to tuberculosis treatment, being aware of the possibility of a cancer diagnosis, and seeking a biopsy early if cancer is suspected.

scholarly journals Social Inequality in Cigarette Consumption, Cigarette Dependence, and Intention to Quit among Norwegian Smokers

2015 ◽  
Vol 2015 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marianne Lund
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Group Versus ◽  
High Income ◽  
Cigarette Consumption ◽  
Intention To Quit ◽  
Relative Risk Ratio ◽  
High Educational Level ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Cigarette Dependence

Background. The study aim was to examine the influence of education and income on multiple measures of risk of smoking continuation.Methods. Three logistic regression models were run on cigarette consumption, dependence, and intention to quit based on nationally representative samples (2007–2012) of approximately 1 200 current smokers aged 30–66 years in Norway.Results. The relative risk ratio for current versus never smokers was RRR 5.37, 95% CI [4.26–6.77] among individuals with low educational level versus high and RRR 1.53, 95% CI [1.14–2.06] in the low-income group versus high (adjusted model). Low educational level was associated with high cigarette consumption, high cigarette dependence, and no intention to quit. The difference in predicted probability for having high cigarette consumption, high cigarette dependence, and no intention to quit were in the range of 10–20 percentage points between smokers with low versus those with high educational level. A significant difference between low- and high-income levels was observed for intention to quit. The effect of education on high consumption and dependence was mainly found in smokers with high income.Conclusion. Increased effort to combat social differences in smoking behaviour is needed. Implementation of smoking cessation programmes with high reach among low socioeconomic groups is recommended.

scholarly journals A study to assess the association of various factors of adherence to treatment on the tuberculosis treatment outcome among new sputum smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients under Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme in Bengaluru area

2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (10) ◽  
pp. 4344
Author(s):  
Ramya M. S. ◽  
Jyothi Jadhav ◽  
Ranganath T. S.
Keyword(s):  
Treatment Outcome ◽  
Alcohol Intake ◽  
Control Programme ◽  
Sputum Smear ◽  
Lower Socioeconomic Status ◽  
Tb Treatment ◽  
Lower Socioeconomic ◽  
Tuberculosis Control Programme ◽  
National Tuberculosis ◽  
Cure Rates

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a top infectious disease killer worldwide. In India although Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) has seen significant success in TB treatment, patient non-adherence or lost to follow up continue to persist and are influenced by various factors. The present study aims to know the influence of adherence factors on TB treatment outcome among new sputum smear positive (NSSP) pulmonary TB patients under RNTCP. The objectives of the present study were to describe the distribution of socio-demographic factors, outcome patterns among NSSP patients and to assess the association of various adherence factors on TB-treatment outcome among NSSP patients.Methods: A prospective longitudinal study among 149 NSSP patients from selected TU’s of Bengaluru.Results: Among the 149 NSSP patients 107 (72%) were males and 42 (28%) were females. Treatment outcome is categorized as cured (120) and other treatment outcomes (defaulted-17 or treatment failure-3 or died-9). Among the various socio-demographic and adherence-factors: age >50years, illiteracy, male-gender, Hindu-religion, lower socioeconomic-status, poor-patient knowledge about TB, disbelief in TB-treatment, unwillingness to continue treatment with subsiding symptoms, smoking, alcohol intake, presence of diabetes or hypertension or COPD or HIV, patient’s un-satisfaction with treatment-availability or accessibility or contact-timings, no-encouragement from family members, other marital status and absence of stigma showed lower cure rates. Of these factors illiteracy, lower socioeconomic-status, poor patient’s knowledge on tuberculosis, smoking, alcohol intake, HIV positive status, un-satisfaction with TB-treatment availability and other marital-status showed statistical significance on the TB treatment outcome.Conclusions: With the observed associations of the above factors on TB-treatment outcome, Further measures like improving patient’s knowledge on tuberculosis, health-services and patient-provider relationship; appropriate TB-HIV care and encouragement to quit smoking or alcohol intake, could improve TB-treatment cure rates. 

Mismatched expectations? Experiences of nurses in a low-income country working with visiting nurses from high-income countries

2017 ◽  
Vol 26 (11-12) ◽  
pp. 1535-1544
Author(s):  
Ingrid Tjoflåt ◽  
Theodotha John Melissa ◽  
Estomih Mduma ◽  
Britt Saetre Hansen ◽  
Eldar Søreide
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
High Income ◽  
Income Country ◽  
Low Income Country ◽  
Visiting Nurses

SATUAN TIMBULAN DAN KOMPOSISI SAMPAH DOMESTIK KABUPATEN TANAH DATAR

Jurnal Dampak ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 28 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yommi Dewilda ◽  
Yeggi Darnas
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
High Income ◽  
Income Data

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendapatkan data timbulan dan komposisi sampah domestik di Kabupaten Tanah Datar serta dapat membandingkan perbedaan timbulan dan komposisi sampah yang dihasilkan berdasarkan tingkat pendapatan masyarakat (High income, Medium income dan Low income). Data timbulan dan komposisi sampah diperlukan dalam perencanaan dan pengembangan sistem pengelolaan sampah. Sampling timbulan dan jumlah sampling dilakukan berdasarkan SNI 19-3964-1994. Hasil penelitian timbulan sampah domestik dalam satuan berat 0,232 kg/o/h dan dalam satuan volume 3,646 l/o/h. Berdasarkan tingkat pendapatan dalam satuan berat High Income (HI) 0,308 kg/o/h, Medium Income (MI) 0,198 kg/o/h dan Low Income (LI) 0,190 kg/o/h dalam satuan volume HI 4,269 l/o/h, MI 3,835 l/o/h dan LI 2,835 l/o/h. Timbulan sampah yang dihasilkan penduduk dengan High Incame lebih besar dibandingkan dengan penduduk dengan pendapatan Medium Income dan Low Income. Komposisi sampah domestik untuk sampah basah 75,5%; sampah plastik 16,6%; sampah kertas 5,3%; sampah tekstil 0,8%; sampah kayu 0,3%; sampah kaca 0,7%; sampah logam ferrous 0,2%; sampah logam non ferrous 0,1%; dan sampah lain-lain 0,5%.Kata kunci: sampah domestik, komposisi sampah, timbulan Sampah

Households Discrimination in School Enrolment in Pakistan: Does gender matter?

2018 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 29-36
Author(s):  
Ali Muhammad ◽  
Zahoor Ul Haq ◽  
Imad Khan
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Gender Discrimination ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Gender Disparity ◽  
School Enrollment ◽  
Female Education ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Socio Economic Factors

This study uses Pakistan Social and Living Measurement Survey 2016 to study gender discrimination in school enrollment across the four provinces of Pakistan using bi-variate analysis. Results show that there is highly significant difference between male and female education in rural areas (x^2=4940.50 and p<0.05). Analysis indicate that gender disparity in enrollment is significantly higher in low income households (x^2=115.468 and P<0.05). The study also showed that as compared to male, fewer female are enrolled in both public and private sectors. Hence, socio-economic factors play important role in making decision about children enrollment in different types of school. The study recommends that government to take appropriate steps to reduce gender discrimination in school enrollment by offering subsidy on female education in the country.

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