Search

to investigate how the Vocal Combat Technique (VCT) may mitigate vocal symptoms in voice over actors using vocal violence. Five voice over actors (3 male, 2 females, Mean = 29.6 years) completed two study sessions of 45 minutes-to-1 hour of vocally violent voice over work held approximately 4 weeks apart. During session one, participants completed voice over work as they typically would, whereas they received 3-hours of VCT training to improve/assist in healthy vocal techniques prior to session two. Pre- and post-session measures for both sessions included self-perceptual ratings of vocal symptoms, auditory-perceptual evaluation, and traditional acoustic measures of frequency and perturbation. Participants showed substantial mitigating effects of VCT training on acoustic perturbation measures (jitter, shimmer, harmonics-to-noise ratio), and self-ratings of vocal symptoms (Vocal-Handicap Index-10, McGill Pain Scale for vocal discomfort, and Evaluation of the Ability to Sing Easily) with calculated medium to large effect sizes (d = 0.61–1.95). There were no changes in auditory perceptual ratings across sessions. Our pilot investigation yielded positive improvements in vocal symptomology in five voice over actors who were trained in VCT. Next steps should include a larger enrollment of voice actors to determine optimal preventative and recovery techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Mobile applications have the potential to enhance the effective dissemination of precise information pertaining to HIV and sexual and reproductive health. The purpose of the study is a descriptive investigation aimed at assessing the validity of video-based learning media using a procedural development model. Materials and methods: The evaluation of validity was conducted by a group of specialists in the field of material and media using a product development assessment tool in the format of video-based learning materials. Results: Based on the analysis of seventeen expert evaluations, the average score obtained for the format, language, and content components was 3.53, and for four expert media evaluations, the average score obtained for the use of learning videos was 3.42. Conclusion: The mobile health education application program for mental health, HIV voluntary counseling, and testing among the deaf community is valid and can be used in the next research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sumber belajar sangat berguna dalam membantu peserta didik memahami materi pada pembelajaran. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan untuk mengembangkan sumber belajar video pembelajaran dengan bantuan website VistaCreate. Adapun metode penelitian yang digunakan ialah R&D dengan model Allesi & Trollip. Subjek penelitian adalah peserta didik kelas XI IPS 4 SMA Srijaya Negara Palembang berjumlah 28 orang. Untuk pelaksanaan uji alpha memperoleh nilai 4,92 ahli materi, 4,5 ahli bahasa, dan 4,85 ahli media, berkategori sangat valid. Kemudian pada uji beta memperoleh nilai 4,75 dari uji coba perorangan dan 4,61 dari uji kelompok kecil, berkategori sangat efektif. Pelaksanaan penelitian di lapangan menunjukkan hasil bahwa peningkatan kemampuan peserta didik mencapai 61,43% dan memperoleh N-gain 0,82 yang berkategori tinggi. Dalam hal ini, bahwa sumber belajar video pembelajaran valid dan efektif digunakan oleh peserta didik.

BackgroundVoluntary counseling and testing for HIV has proven to be a highly effective and cost-efficient approach in many locations, yielding excellent results. It serves as a gateway to a range of HIV-related services, including the provision of antiretroviral drugs. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the willingness toward VCT and associated factors among TB infected patients at Public Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; 2023.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was undertaken at public hospitals in Addis Ababa from 1st to 30th of March 2023 with 235 participants using systematic random sampling. Trained data collectors employed a pretested data extraction tool for information gathering. Variables with p-value less than 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression were considered statistically significant.ResultsThe prevalence of willingness toward VCT among TB infected patients was (78.3, 95%CI: 72.8, 83.4). Individuals with a primary education level (AOR: 6.32; 95%CI: 1.65, 24.25), government employees (AOR: 5.85; 95%CI: 1.78, 19.22) and private employees (AOR: 3.35; 95%CI: 1.12, 10.01), good knowledge of VCT (AOR: 3.12; 95%CI: 1.36, 7.16), perceived a higher risk (AOR: 6.58; 95%CI: 2.44, 17.73) and perceived stigma (AOR: 14.95; 95%CI: 4.98, 44.91) were factors associated with willingness toward VCT.ConclusionThe proportion of Tuberculosis infected patients expressing willingness toward Voluntary Counseling and Testing in this study was higher than in previous studies, it falls below the UNAIDS target of 90% of people knowing their HIV status. Notably, factors such as level of education, occupation, knowledge, perceived risk, and perceived stigma emerged as independent factors significantly associated with the willingness of TB-infected patients to undergo VCT. These findings underscore the importance of considering socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and psychosocial factors in designing strategies to enhance VCT acceptance among TB-infected individuals.

Abstract Objectives To investigate the factors associated with voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) among young students engaging in casual sexual activity and to establish a scientific rationale for developing targeted intervention strategies for preventing HIV/AIDS in this population. Methods Stratified cluster sampling was used to conduct a survey using questionnaires to collect demographic and behavioral information for statistical analysis. Results Data from 611 young students, who reported engaging in casual sexual activity, were included in the statistical analysis. Among these, 68 (11.13%) students underwent the VCT. Among young students who engaged in casual sexual activity, those who were non-Zhejiang residents (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.11; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.17–3.80), those who had received AIDS-themed lectures or health education courses from the school in the past year (aOR = 3.96, 95% CI = 1.49–10.50), those who had received HIV risk self-assessment conducted by the school in the past year (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.17–4.59), and those who had engaged in commercial sex activity in the past year (aOR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.07–3.66) were more inclined to have undergone VCT. Male students (aOR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.18–0.77) and those who used condoms consistently during casual sexual activity (aOR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.21–0.97) were less likely to undergo VCT. Conclusion Casual sexual activity was relatively prevalent among young students, posing a potential risk for HIV transmission. These findings will be instrumental in the development more effective HIV prevention and control strategies for young students. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of promoting and popularizing VCT among young students without Zhejiang province residency, who are involved in commercial sexual activity, and/or those who lacking HIV education. Moreover, additional research and implementation of refined HIV behavioral interventions specifically tailored to young students are necessary to enhance their awareness and knowledge of HIV prevention.

Objectives: To investigate the factors associated with voluntary HIV counseling and testing (VCT) among young students engaging in casual sexual activity and to establish a scientific rationale for developing targeted intervention strategies for preventing HIV/AIDS in this population. Methods: Stratified cluster sampling was used to conduct a survey using questionnaires to collect demographic and behavioral information for statistical analysis. Results: Data from 611 young students, who reported engaging in casual sexual activity, were included in the statistical analysis. Among these, 68 (11.13%) students underwent the VCT. Among young students who engaged in casual sexual activity, those who were non-Zhejiang residents (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.11; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.17–3.80), those who had received AIDS-themed lectures or health education courses from the school in the past year (aOR = 3.96, 95% CI = 1.49–10.50), those who had received HIV risk self-assessment conducted by the school in the past year (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.17–4.59), and those who had engaged in commercial sex activity in the past year (aOR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.07–3.66) were more inclined to have undergone VCT. Male students (aOR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.18–0.77) and those who used condoms consistently during casual sexual activity (aOR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.21–0.97) were less likely to undergo VCT. Conclusion: Casual sexual activity was relatively prevalent among young students, posing a potential risk for HIV transmission. These findings will be instrumental in the development more effective HIV prevention and control strategies for young students. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of promoting and popularizing VCT among young students without Zhejiang province residency, who are involved in commercial sexual activity, and/or those who lacking HIV education. Moreover, additional research and implementation of refined HIV behavioral interventions specifically tailored to young students are necessary to enhance their awareness and knowledge of HIV prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveTo investigate the late diagnosis of HIV infection and associated factors in Jiading District between 1998 and 2022， and to provide the information for the development of AIDS prevention and control strategy.MethodsInformation of newly reported HIV/AIDS cases in Jiading District between 1998 and 2022 were obtained from the National Information System for Comprehensive AIDS Prevention and Control. Logistic regression was used to explore the associated factors of late diagnosis of HIV infection.ResultsIn total， 809 HIV/AIDS cases was newly reported， 324 of which were late diagnosis with the overall rate of late diagnosis of 40.1%. Despite an increased tendency from 2016 to 2018， the rate of late diagnosis showed a downward trend from 1998 to 2015. The late diagnosis rate was 29.5% in 2015. From 2016 to 2022， the average rate was 34.9%. The average age of cases with a late diagnosis was 44.8±14.6 years old. Age groups over 50 had the highest risk，at 57.7%， accounting for 35.8% of all cases of late diagnosis. All age groups older than 30（OR=1.37‒3.50） had a higher rate of late diagnosis than the group between age 21 and 30. In comparison to patients at VCT clinic， the rate of late diagnosis among sexually transmitted disease （STD） outpatients （OR=2.23， 95%CI：1.42‒3.49） and other clinical patients （OR=2.75， 95%CI：1.88‒4.01） was higher.ConclusionThe late diagnosis rate of HIV infection is relatively high in Jiading District. AIDS education and prevention activities should be strengthened among people aged over 50 years. For early detection of HIV infection， VCT clinic platform’s function should be fully utilized. Medical institutions should pay attention to HIV testing in patients.

The fluid retention effect of the Volume Control Tank (VCT) leads to a long time delay in Reactor Coolant System (RCS) concentration during the boration process. A coupled model combining a lumped-parameter sub-model and a computational fluid dynamics sub-model is currently used to investigate the concentration dynamic characteristic of RCS during the boration process. This model is validated by comparison with experimental data, and the predicted results show excellent agreement with experimental data. We provide detailed fields in VCT and concentration variations of RCS to study the interaction between mixing in VCT and the transient responses of RCS. Moreover, the impacts of the inlet flow rate, inlet nozzle diameter, original concentration, and replenishing temperature of VCT on the RCS concentration characteristic are studied. The inlet flow rate and nozzle diameter of VCT remarkably affect the RCS concentration characteristic. Too-large or too-small inlet flow rates and nozzle diameters will lead to unacceptable long delays. In this work, the optimal inlet flow rate and nozzle diameter of VCT are 5 m3/h and 58.8 mm, respectively. Besides, the impacts of the original concentration and replenishing temperature of VCT are negligible under normal operating conditions.

Forest change monitoring is a fundamental and routine task for forest survey and planning departments, and the resulting forest change information acts as an underlying asset for sustainable forest management strategy development, ecological quality assessment, and carbon cycle research. The traditional ground-based manual monitoring of forest change has the disadvantages of high time and labor costs, low accessibility, and poor timeliness over wide regions. Remote sensing technology has become a popular approach for multi-scale forest change monitoring due to its multiple available spatial, spectral, temporal, and radiometric resolutions and wide coverage. Particularly, the free access policy of long time series archive data of Landsat (around 50 years) has triggered many automated analysis algorithms for landscape-scale forest change analysis, such as VCT, LandTrendr, BFAST, and CCDC. These automated algorithms differ in their principles, parameter settings, execution complexity, and disturbance types to be detected. Thus, selecting a suitable algorithm to satisfy the particular forest management demands is an urgent and challenging task for forest managers in a given forested area. In this study, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province, a typical plantation forest region in Southern China where forest disturbance widely and frequently exists, was selected as the study area. Based on the GEE platform, the algorithmic adaptability of VCT, LandTrendr, and CCDC in monitoring abrupt forest disturbance events was compared and assessed. The results showed that the kappa coefficients of the abrupt disturbance events detected by the three algorithms were at 0.704 (LandTrendr), 0.660 (VCT), and 0.727 (CCDC), and the corresponding overall accuracies were at 0.852, 0.830, and 0.862, respectively. The validated disturbance occurrence time consistency reached nearly 80% for the three algorithms. In light of the characteristics of forest disturbance occurrence in southeastern China as well as the algorithmic complexity, efficiency, and adaptability, LandTrendr was recommended as the most suitable one in this region or other similar regions. Overall, the forest change monitoring process based on GEE is becoming more simplified and easily implemented, and the comparisons and tradeoffs in this study provide a reference for the choice of long time series forest monitoring algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest fires are major disturbances in forest ecosystems. The rapid detection of the spatial and temporal characteristics of fires is essential for formulating targeted post-fire vegetation restoration measures and assessing fire-induced carbon emissions. We propose an accurate and efficient framework for extracting the spatiotemporal characteristics of fires using vegetation change tracker (VCT) products and the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. The VCT was used to extract areas of persistent forest and forest disturbance patches from Landsat images of Xichang and Muli, Liangshan prefecture, Sichuan province in southwestern China and Huma, Heilongjiang province, in northeastern China. All available Landsat images in the GEE platform in a year were normalized using the VCT-derived persisting forest mask to derive three standardized vegetation indices (normalized burn ratio (NBRr), normalized difference moisture index (NDMIr), and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVIr)). Historical forest disturbance events in Xichang were used to train two decision trees using the C4.5 data mining tool. The differenced NBRr, NDMIr, and NDVIr (dNBRr, dNDMIr, and dNDVIr) were obtained by calculating the difference in the index values between two temporally adjacent images. The occurrence time of disturbance events were extracted using the thresholds identified by decision tree 1. The use of all available images in GEE narrowed the disturbance occurrence time down to 16 days. This period was extended if images were not available or had cloud cover. Fire disturbances were distinguished from other disturbances by comparing the dNBRr, dNDMIr, and dNDVIr values with the thresholds identified by decision tree 2. The results showed that the proposed framework performed well in three study areas. The temporal accuracy for detecting disturbances in the three areas was 94.33%, 90.33%, and 89.67%, the classification accuracy of fire and non-fire disturbances was 85.33%, 89.67%, and 83.67%, and the Kappa coefficients were 0.71, 0.74, and 0.67, respectively. The proposed framework enables the efficient and rapid extraction of the spatiotemporal characteristics of forest fire disturbances using frequent Landsat time-series data, GEE, and VCT products. The results can be used in forest fire disturbance databases and to implement targeted post-disturbance vegetation restoration practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to describe how games can be used to learn value clarification techniques (VCT). Affective learning is centered on cognitive learning and so it is not often applied in class. Affective learning is usually only carried out by teachers in schools, particularly in elementary schools, if there are problems with student attitudes, and only advice and rules are given. This is based on the idea that unwanted attitudes can be prevented. Affective learning is needed in the classroom as a way to manage attitudes, and it can involve interesting games to be more embedded in student's learning. Using VCT in affective learning differs from cognitive or psychomotor learning because of its focus on values. The implementation of VCT using games is done by providing a stimulus in the form of a moral dilemma that students must solve. This approach must take into account the advantages and disadvantages of implementing games in the classroom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Civic Education is a very important subject in efforts to build the nation's character. Character building through Civics includes integrating character values in lectures. Value clarification techniques are considered superior for affective learning (learning to form attitudes/values). Through value clarification, learning activities no longer require students to memorize and understand the values that have been chosen by others but are assisted in finding, analyzing, taking responsibility, developing, choosing, taking attitudes, and practising the values in their own lives. This research is a pre-experimental research design. The method used in this research is the Intact Group Comparison design method. The research subjects were students of the Department of Early Childhood Education (PAUD) UNJA who took the general course of civic education. Subjects were divided into 2 groups, namely the control group using the conventional approach, and the experimental group using the Value clarification techniques. The instrument used in this study is a test instrument. The collected data were analyzed using the t-test. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that the integration of character education in civic education courses through Value clarification techniques is more effective than conventional ones. _________ Abstrak Pendidikan Kewarganegaraan merupakan mata kuliah yang sangat penting dalam upaya pembangunan karakter bangsa. Pembangunan karakter melalui PKn di antaranya pengintegrasian nilai-nilai karakter dalam perkuliahan. Teknik klarifikasi nilai dianggap lebih unggul untuk pembelajaran afektif (pembelajaran pembentukan sikap/nilai). Melalui pengklarifikasian nilai, kegiatan pembelajaran tidak lagi sekedar menuntut peserta didik agar hafal dan paham akan nilai-nilai yang sudah dipilihkan pihak lain, melainkan dibantu untuk mencari, menganalisa, mempertanggung jawabkan, mengembangkan, memilih, mengambil sikap, dan mengamalkan nilai-nilai dalam kehidupannya sendiri. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian Pre-Eksperimental Design. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode rancangan Intact Group Comparison. Subjek penelitian adalah mahasiswa Jurusan Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini (PAUD) UNJA yang mengikuti mata kuliah umum PKn. Subjek dibagi menjadi 2 kelompok yakni kelompok kontrol dengan menggunakan pendekatan konvensional, dan eksperimen menggunakan Teknik klarifikasi nilai. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah instrumen tes. Data yang terkumpul dianalisis dengan menggunakan uji t. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan pengintegrasian pendidikan karakter dalam mata kuliah PKn melalui Teknik klarifikasi nilai lebih efektif dibandingkan dengan konvensional.

Pada tahun 2017 LSL merupakan kelompok risiko HIV tertinggi di Kabupaten Sukoharjo. VCT merupakan salah satu upaya pencegahan dan penanggulangan HIV/AIDS. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan keyakinan perilaku, dan sikap pada pemanfaatan Klinik VCT pada LSL di Sukoharjo. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kasus. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan cara wawancara mendalam kepada lima LSL yang pernah melakukan VCT dan dua informan triangulasi terdiri dari satu PE (Peer Educator) dan satu KL (Koordinator Lapangan) yang diambil dengan purposive sampling. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa seluruh LSL sudah pernah melakukan VCT namun hanya 4 LSL yang melakukannya secara rutin. Faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi LSL dalam melakukan VCT secara rutin setiap 3 bulan adalah keyakinan perilaku dan sikap. Namun faktor yang mendasari dalam melakukan VCT adalah keyakinan perilaku bahwa VCT memiliki keuntungan yang lebih banyak jika dibandingkan dengan kerugiannya. Sehingga peneliti menyarankan kepada petugas penanggulangan HIV/AIDS untuk meningkatkan jangkauan kepada LSL yang masih hidden agar VCT secara rutin setiap 3 bulan sekali.

Abstract Background HIV testing is an integral component of HIV prevention, treatment and care and, therefore, is crucial in achieving UNAIDS 90–90-90 targets. HIV testing in Kenya follows both the voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) and provider initiated testing and counselling (PITC) models. However, little is known about the individual experiences of undergoing an HIV test in the two testing models. This study provides experiential evidence of undergoing an HIV test in a resource poor urban slum setting. Methods The study explored testing experiences and challenges faced in respect to ensuring the 3 Cs (consent, counselling and confidentiality), using in-depth interviews (N = 41) with HIV-infected men and women in two slum settlements of Nairobi City. The in-depth interview respondents were aged above 18 years with 56% being females. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and then translated into English. The transcribed data were analysed using thematic analysis method. Results The respondent HIV-testing experiences were varied and greatly shaped by circumstances and motivation for HIV testing. The findings show both positive and negative experiences, with sporadic adherence to the 3Cs principle in both HIV testing models. Although some respondents were satisfied with the HIV testing process, a number of them raised a number of concerns, with instances of coercion and testing without consent being reported. Conclusion The 3Cs (consent, counselling and confidentiality) principle must underlie HIV testing and counselling practices in order to achieve positive testing outcomes. The study concludes that adherence to the 3Cs during HIV testing contributes to both the individual and public health good – irrespective of whether testing is initiated by the individual or by the health provider.

Abstract Objective Although incredible progress has been made in treatment and prevention of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections, the epidemic continues to spread in developing nations. The information on the prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections among voluntary counseling and testing clients in Ethiopia is limited. Hence, the study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections among voluntary counseling and testing clients attending private health facilities in Bahir Dar city. Result A total of 382 study participants with the mean age of 25.43 years (SD = ± 6.87) were enrolled. Overall, 14 (3.7%) and 8 (2.1%) voluntary counseling and testing clients were positive for human immunodeficiency virus and Hepatitis C virus respectively. All Hepatitis C virus antibody positive individuals were males (3.8%). The sero-prevalence of Hepatitis C virus was significantly associated with the age group 41–50 years old (AOR = 65.65; 95% CI 4.57–943). Married study participants were also significantly associated with HIV infection (AOR = 7.92, 95% CI 1.32–47.31).

Introduction: Health sciences university students (HSUS) are susceptible to HIV infection due to frequent contact with patients whose HIV status is unknown. This study aimed to compare the HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and the willingness to participate in VCT among HSUS, analyzing the differences between groups, and correlation and effect between variables. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 357 HSUS from the faculty of nursing, pharmacy, psychology and medicine at an accredited university. Samples were selected using simple random sampling. Data analysis used descriptive statistic, Pearson correlation, one-way ANOVA test, and linear regression test (α

Background: Despite the successes of testing campaigns in South Africa, many people still do not know their human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, and the number of new infections remains high. Delayed access to testing is a contributing factor in this regard. Utilising less conventional health settings to test for HIV, such as optometry practices, could help increase the opportunities to test for HIV. Aim: To investigate the potential of the optometry environment as a possible contributor to capacity building for HIV testing and counselling services. Setting: Three optometry practices in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. Methods: A survey design approach was used with participants (n = 30) completing a researcher-designed 16-item questionnaire. Results: The results showed that the optometry environment was generally perceived as conducive for possible HIV testing, as the majority of participants felt that testing for HIV at an optometry practice would be more convenient (90%; n = 27), compared to testing at a clinic, with a clear preference for testing for HIV at an optometry practice as opposed to a clinic (93%; n = 27). Conclusion: The results of this study seem to illustrate a willingness within the optometry patient population to be receptive to the possibility of screening for HIV. However, while optometry falls within the ambit of primary health services for vision and eye health, the profession is yet to produce a guideline document detailing the exact scope of practitioners with regard to systemic health screenings. As such, HIV screening is not specified at present.

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) has been a global problem nowadays. To reduce its spread, Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) and Provider-Initiated Testing and Counseling (PITC) have been provided. However, these interventions remain ineffective to discover new cases, as the stigma among health officers may exist. Objective: To compare the stigma towards people living with HIV/AIDS between VCT and PITC officers. Methods: This was a descriptive comparative conducted in Makassar City, Parepare City and Sidenreng Rappang Regency, South Sulawesi Province Indonesia. There were 139 samples were selected using convenience sampling technique, which consisted of 66 VCT counseling officers and 73 PITC officers. The questionnaire from Health Policy Project in Thailand was used to measure the HIV/AIDS related-stigma. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and Mann Whitney test. Results: Findings show that there was a statistically significant difference in stigma between the group of VCT and PITC on people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), which the mean of stigma in the PITC group (73.07) was higher than the mean value in the VCT group (66.61). Conclusion: There is a significant difference in stigma between VCT and PITC officers towards PLWHA. It is suggested that PITC curriculum should be evaluated and supervision and monitoring in both VCT and PITC groups should be implemented regularly to reduce the stigma towards PLWHA.

The efficacy of Safety Counts, a CDC-diffused intervention, was reanalyzed. In a quasi experimental, cross-over design, injection drug users (IDU) and crack users in two neighborhoods were assigned by neighborhood to receive individual Voluntary HIV Counseling and Testing or Safety Counts and 78% were reassessed at 5–9 months. Drug users in the Safety Counts program reported significantly greater reductions in risky sex, crack and hard drug use, and risky drug injection. The more sessions of Safety Counts attended, the greater were the reductions in risky acts. Different analytic decisions result in very different findings for the same intervention. Safety Counts is an effective intervention for IDU and crack users. Analytic decision of intervention outcomes is highly related to evaluations of an intervention’s efficacy.

Kelompok usia reproduktif tersebut menyumbang lebih dari 70% kasus AIDS, namun dalam SDKI 2012 pada wanita 15-49 tahun dan pria kawin umur 15-54 tahun yang pernah mendengar tentang HIV/AIDS, tidak sesuai dengan tingkat pengetahuan tentang cara mengurangi risiko tertular HIV/AIDS. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui hubungan antara pengetahuan tentang HIV/AIDS dengan pemanfaatan layanan VCT. Desain penelitian ini adalah penelitian survei analitik, pendekatan yang digunakan adalah cross sectional. Teknik sampel yang digunakan accidental sampling sebanyak 30 responden datang ke layanan VCT Puskesmas Gedongtengen. Teknik analisa data menggunakan uji chi square. Penelitian ini menunjukkan berdasarkan hasil Uji chi square didapatkan hasil bahwa terdapat hubungan antara pengetahuan dan pemanfaatan pelayanan VCT di Puskesmas Gedongtengen. Berdasarkan hasil dapat diambil kesimpulan yaitu terdapat hubungan antara pengetahuan dan pemanfaatan pelayanan VCT di Puskesmas Gedongtengen. Deteksi dini diri sendiri terhadap infeksi HIV dianjurkan demi terciptanya masyarakat sehat. Terutama saat akan menikah dan merencanakan kehamilan dengan mendatangi puskesmas yang menyediakan pelayanan VCT.

Introduction: For patients bitten by a Green Pit Viper (GPV), the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) guideline suggests a physician order blood tests immediately after the ED arrival and repeat them 2 h later, if initial results are normal. If repeat tests remain normal, the patient can be discharged and scheduled for outpatient-follow-up at 24, 48 and 72 h. Objectives: To determine the probability of abnormal blood tests at the second draw (2 h after the first draw), and to determine the probability of adverse events within 24+/−12 h among those discharged home for outpatient-follow-up. Methods: This retrospective study included patients with a history of GPV (Trimeresurus albolabris or Trimeresurus macrops) bite who were 15 years or older presenting to our ED from 2008 to 2015. We excluded those with other types of animal bites or those with missing medical records. Results: 320 cases were included. The majority were male (56.3%) and median age was 44 years old. There were only 4 cases (1.3%) with abnormal venous clotting time (VCT) or platelet count (PC) at the second blood draws when the first test results were normal. Of those discharged after the second blood draws came back normal, and who had outpatient follow-up at 24+/−12 h, 3 had minor adverse events and none received antivenom. Conclusions: This study showed a very low probability of abnormal test results 2 h after initial tests. However, they were still needed if the first tests were done too early. This study also confirms the safety of the guideline's recommendation for outpatient follow-up, especially within the first 24 h, with a very low rate of minor adverse events, and instruction to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual clinical trials (VCT) are technology driven new approach to conduct the trials in a digital platform. Conducting clinical trials virtually is an option to avoid the problems faced by the researchers in the traditional method, such as delay in recruitment, delay in site start up activities, problems in distribution of study materials, delay in ethical committee review process, suspension of hospital activities and lack of clarity on regional restrictions of movement. Despite the benefits, VCTs has limitation such as unclear regulatory framework, problems in data protection, and biased recruitment of study population as VCTs enroll study participants with some technical knowledge. Research that needs continuous medical intervention by the health care team also cannot be performed virtually. To avoid unethical practices in virtual conduct of clinical trials, ethical guidelines on VCTs also needs to developed and implemented for the same. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem that the global illumination rendering of large scale scene can't meet the real-time requirement, this paper proposed a VCT global illumination algorithm. The algorithm included: a) In the phase of voxelization, this paper proposed a novel scene illumination information representation structure called cascade voxel textures, which could not only greatly reduce the memory consumption of the storage scenes, but also had anisotropy; b) In the phase of illumination calculation, this paper proposed an improved cone tracing filter based on the cascade texture structure, this filter improved the efficiency of illumination injection and reflected light calculation; c) The voxel updating strategy of the scene improved the runtime frame rate of the algorithm. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm is much better than the original VCT algorithm in reducing the memory and improving the speed. The algorithm meets the real-time requirement of global illumination calculation in large-scale scene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The quality of life (QoL) construct has also contributed to understanding the comprehension of factors involved in the existence of people infected by the HIV/AIDS. The objective of this study is to assess the quality of life (QoL) of people with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Wonogiri District, Indonesia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2017. Convenience sampling method was employed to recruit 39 people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) at Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) of Wonogiri, Indonesia. Research data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire of WHOQOL-HIV BREF. The data were further analysed using a ttest and a Chi-square test, while linear regression was used to evaluate factors that correlate with the PLWHAs' quality of life. RESULTS: The results showed that the gross mean score of social relationships domain is 13.59; psychological domain is 13.31; environment domain is 13.28; spiritual/personal beliefs domainis 13.15; physical domain is 13.10; and level of independence domain is 13.77. The symptom of HIV is associated with quality of life (B = 7.611, β = 0.362, t = 2,046, p value = 0.049). CONCLUSION: Healthcare provider should increase providerinitiated testing and counselling (PITC) to contracting group, high risk group, susceptible group, and the community. The PLWHA are recommended to actively participate in peer support groups (PSGs) so that they can improve their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Serum fibrinogen of less than 100 mg/dL is recommended for predicting systemic bleeding risk in hematotoxic snake bite patients, but it is not widely available. Data on using venous clotting time (VCT), 20-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT), platelets, prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), and partial thromboplastin time (PTT) to predict systemic bleeding in hematotoxic snake bite patients are limited. Objective: To determine association between clotting tests (VCT, 20WBCT, platelets, PT, PTT, and INR) and 1) serum fibrinogen of less than 100 mg/dL, and 2) systemic bleeding in patients bitten by green pit viper (GPV) or Russell's viper (RV). Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study included patients bitten by GPV or RV at Sawanpracharak Hospital, Nakhon Sawan, Thailand, between October 2016 and December 2017. Patient's blood specimens were collected for fibrinogen, PT, INR, PTT, platelet count, VCT, and 20WBCT at initial presentation and every six hours until 24 hours of admission, or patients' recovery. The association were determined by using Fisher's exact test. Results: There were 30 patients, 21 were bitten by GPV, and nine were bitten by RV. One hundred sixty-one sets of blood specimens were collected. There were four cases with systemic bleeding. Factors associated with fibrinogen of less than 100 mg/dL were VCT of 20 minutes or more (p=0.01), unclotted 20WBCT (p=0.01), PT of more than 13 seconds (p=0.04), and INR of 1.2 or more (p<0.01). Factors that associated with systemic bleeding were VCT of 20 minutes or more (p<0.01), unclotted 20WBCT (p<0.01), INR of 1.2 or more (p=0.04), and fibrinogen of less than 100 mg/dL (p=0.01). Conclusion: VCT of 20 minutes or more, unclotted 20WBCT, and INR of 1.2 or more are associated with serum fibrinogen less than 100 mg/dL and systemic bleeding in GPV and RV envenomation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although incredible progress has been made in treatment and prevention of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections, the epidemic continues to spread in developing nations. The information on the prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections among voluntary counseling and testing clients in Ethiopia is limited. Hence, the study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of Hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections among voluntary counseling and testing clients attending private health facilities in Bahir Dar city. Result: A total of 382 study participants with the mean age of 25.43 years (SD = ± 6.87) were enrolled. Overall, 14 (3.7%) and 8 (2.1%) voluntary counseling and testing clients were positive for human immunodeficiency virus and Hepatitis C virus respectively. All Hepatitis C virus antibody positive individuals were males (3.8%). The sero-prevalence of Hepatitis C virus was significantly associated with the age group 41–50 years old (AOR = 65.65; 95% CI 4.57–943). Married study participants were also significantly associated with HIV infection (AOR = 7.92, 95% CI 1.32–47.31). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many post-fire on-site factors, including fire severity, management strategies, topography, and local climate, are concerns for forest managers and recovery ecologists to formulate forest vegetation recovery plans in response to climate change. We used the Vegetation Change Tracker (VCT) algorithm to map forest disturbance in the Daxing’anling area, Northeastern China, from 1987 to 2016. A support vector machine (SVM) classifier and historical fire records were used to separate burned patches from disturbance patches obtained from VCT. Afterward, stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR), SVM, and random forest (RF) were applied to assess the statistical relationships between vegetation recovery characteristics and various influential factors. The results indicated that the forest disturbance events obtained from VCT had high spatial accuracy, ranging from 70% to 86% for most years. The overall accuracy of the annual fire patches extracted from the proposed VCT-SVM algorithm was over 92%. The modeling accuracy of post-fire vegetation recovery was excellent, and the validation results confirmed that the RF algorithm provided better prediction accuracy than SVM and SMLR. In conclusion, topographic variables (e.g., elevation) and meteorological variables (e.g., the post-fire annual precipitation in the second year, the post-fire average relative humidity in the fifth year, and the post-fire extreme maximum temperature in the third year) jointly affect vegetation recovery in this cold temperate continental monsoon climate region.

Background: The number of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases is high and is constantly increasing. Homosexual men as a transmission niche is not only significant in terms of numbers, but also in natural aspects of anal sex, tropism of HIV-1, and high-risk behavior. Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) is important for accelerating diagnosis and management plan; yet the uptake on high-risk population in Indonesia is low. A behavior-reasoning theory, Health Belief Model (HBM), attempts to explain whether or not individuals engage in certain health behavior. This study tries to assess participation rate of VCT, to portray HBM variables perception, and to depict significance of HBM variables towards VCT uptake or VCT intention. Methods: This study was conducted in October-November 2014 using cross-sectional design; 127 respondents were gathered according to Respondent Driven Snowball Sampling. This study used an internet-based questionnaire derived from Champion’s 1984 mammogram HBM questionnaire. Privacy and compensation were obtained. The Chi square test and logistic regression of HBM variables were done. Results: The VCT uptake was low (15.7%). Certain sexual experience and commitment were significant (Commitment to Men p=0.027, Oral Sex experience with men p=0.001, Anal Sex Experience with men p=0.038). Chi Square test revealed significance on Perceived Susceptibility, Perceived Benefit, and Cues to Action. Conclusions: Uptake of VCT is considerably low compared with total high risk population and other similar studies. Personal Susceptibility to HIV/AIDS is recommended to be emphasized; while VCT Benefit and Cues to Action in young homosexual men communities are better encouraged.

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) clinics play a critical role in identifying and diagnosing HIV cases. This study aimed to describe the trend of HIV positivity rate (HPR) among Chinese VCT clinics between 2015 and 2022., Methods: This study utilized data from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention to analyze the trend in the HPR for VCT clinics from 2015 to 2022. The HPR was calculated by dividing the number of newly-reported HIV cases by the number of HIV tests, multiplied by 100%. To identify temporal and spatial trends in the HPR, we employed joinpoint regression analysis and the Getis-Ord hotspot analysis., Results: From 2015 to 2022, VCT clinics in China performed a total of 22,075,386 HIV tests, leading to the identification of 260,353 HIV cases, resulting in a HPR of 1.18%. The HPR consistently declined over the study period, with an average annual percent change (AAPC) of -7.5% (95% confidence interval: -12.6%, -2.2%, P <0.05). The number of HPR hotspots also decreased from 41 in 2015 to 23 in 2022. These HPR hotspots were primarily located in Yunnan, Sichuan, Guangdong, and Guangxi provincial-level administrative divisions (PLADs). Among the 31 PLADs, 16 showed a significant decrease in HPR during the study period (AAPC<0, P AAPC <0.05)., Conclusions: VCT clinics in China have played a significant role in identifying HIV cases. The declining HPR observed in these clinics may indicates the progress has been made in some degree in mitigating HIV among high-risk populations. Therefore, it is crucial to further improving the utilization of VCT clinics for HIV testing., Competing Interests: No conflicts of interest., (Copyright and License information: Editorial Office of CCDCW, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention 2024.)

This study aimed to identify factors that influenced the intention of men who have sex with men (MSM) to participate in voluntary counseling and HIV testing (VCT) and in accessing free condoms. A qualitative inquiry using one-on-one in-depth interviews was conducted with MSM participants who were recruited using a purposive sampling technique. Data analysis was guided by a framework analysis for qualitative data by Ritchie and Spencer, and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework was used to analyze the data. The findings were grouped into three themes—namely, (a) attitude encompassing knowledge about HIV/AIDS and HIV/AIDS services and the belief about the positive outcomes of the services; (b) subjective norms including support from MSM peers and family members and motivation to comply with the support; and (c) perceived behavioral control, which is associated with resource availability and having confidence and positive intention to participate in VCT and willingness to access free condoms. Findings indicated that personal, community, and structural factors were predictors to intention to accessing services. Interventions targeting large numbers of MSM population and further studies to understand what needs to be done by nongovernmental organizations and governmental institutions to halt the spread of HIV infections among MSM populations and increase their intention to use HIV/AIDS services are also recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HIV-AIDS epidemic remains a serious public health problem in the world, including Indonesia. Voluntary counseling & testing (VCT) is one of HIV prevention strategies. Ciputat Health Center is the first health center in South Tangerang which already have VCT services. However, there are still low interest in using the service. This study aims to descibe the problem using social marketing (SM) perspective. This was a qualitative research with a descriptive approach. Informants were selected using purposive sampling, Seven 7 informants were interviewed, namely Responsible Person of VCT program, head of the health center, health promotion staff, South Tangerang Health Department, NGO partner, VCT patients, and non-VCT patients. The results showed that Ciputat Health Center had made SM, based on four principles: to promote (with leaflet, diary of ODHA, posters, brochures, flipchart, a banner in front of health center, mouth to mouth by cadre, provision of condoms), the product (VCT), while considering the price (freecost for Tangsel supported by Global Fund, other Tangsel should pay, perception of barrier because of stigma and discrimination), and place (health care's office integrated with TB Program, mobile VCT). Beside of this, VCT informan said, they don't know VCT information well, they just suggested by midwife in antenatal care to take a blood test, never promoted by cadre. Health promotion staff said, she never joined SM planning. NGO just facilitated high risk community not to public. The goals of SM just showed the number of VCT target, but it did'nt reach. SM missed in positioning statement. The recomendation is developing the strategy of VCT involved by all staff to promote and giving information, devide the strategy by specific population like mother to-child transmission and public, minimize stigma by using a campaign, good positioning statement and situation analysis to reach goals of SM VCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Phase III of the North American Forest Dynamics (NAFD) study an automatic workflow has been developed for evaluating forest disturbance history using Landsat observations. It has four major components: an automated approach for image selection and preprocessing, the vegetation change tracker (VCT) forest disturbance analysis, postprocessing, and validation. This approach has been applied to the conterminous US (CONUS) to produce a comprehensive analysis of US forest disturbance history using the NASA Earth Exchange (NEX) cloud computing system. The resultant NAFD-NEX product includes 25 annual forest disturbance maps for 1986–2010 and two time-integrated maps to provide spatial-temporal synoptic view of disturbances over this time period. These maps were derived based on 24,000+ scenes selected from 350,000+ available Landsat images at 30-m resolution, and were validated using a visual assessment of Landsat time-series images in combination with high-resolution and other ancillary data sources over samples selected using a probability based sampling method. The validation revealed no major biases in the NAFD-NEX maps for disturbance events that resulted in at least 20% canopy cover loss. The average user's and producer's accuracies for the disturbance class were 53.6% and 53.3%, respectively, with the individual year's user's accuracy varying from 42.8% to 73.6% and producer's accuracy from 39.0% to 84.8% over the 25-year period. The NAFD-NEX disturbance maps are available from a web portal of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory Distributed Active Archive Center (ORNL-DAAC) at https://doi.org/10.3334/ORNLDAAC/1290 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epidemic of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in Indonesia has entered the stage of the concentrated epidemic. We need to assess factors that are associated to the efforts to prevent transmission of HIV/AIDS from mother to baby by midwives in the public health centers and in the private practices in City of Denpasar using SWOT analysis. This research was a qualitative study by involving eight midwives coordinator and staffs in the public health center in the City of Denpasar, ten private practice midwives and two head of health care centers. Data were collected using in-depth interview guidance and observation sheets, and the study was conducted from June to September 2015. Data were analyzed using content analysis. The policy of the officer about screening and early detecting from the central level to the district was a major strength should be in point of view of midwives. The main weakness was the lack of awareness of the private practices of midwives to support the success of voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) and provider-initiated testing and counseling (PITC) programs and the cost of laboratory test before having an antiretroviral therapy was expensive. Midwives showed a big responsibility to prevent transmission of HIV to the fetus through early screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess reproductive health service utilization and associated factors among adolescents in Anchar District, West Hararghe Zone, Oromia Region, East Ethiopia. Materials and methods: A community based cross-sectional study using quantitative and qualitative method of data collection was applied from March 1to 30, 2013. Simple random sampling method was used for quantitative and Purposive sampling technique used for qualitative method. Four hundred two adolescents were interviewed for quantitative study. Four focus groups and ten in-depth interviews were conducted for qualitative study. Binary and Multiple logistic regressions were used for association at p < 0.05 using SPSS Version 16.0 software. Qualitative data was transcribed, and result was presented by narration. Results: Forty two (39.3%) female adolescents have ever used family planning. One hundred eight four (45.8%) adolescents have ever used VCT services. Males were 5.25 times more likely to use VCT than females (AOR = 5.25,C.I = 1.07, 25.87) and those perceived themselves as high risk for HIV were 8.22 times more likely to use VCT than their counterparts (AOR = 8.22, C.I = 1.065, 35.49). Lack of adolescent reproductive health services, Harmful Traditional Practices, lack of privacy and inconvenient service hour were reasons for not utilizing the service. Conclusion: More than half of adolescents were not utilizing family planning, and VCT services. Therefore, intensified effort is needed to increase utilization of these services for adolescents.

Introduction: Simultaneous lymphocyte CD4+ and HIV testing has been proposed as a method for shortening the time between human immunodeficency syndrome (HIV) diagnosis and combined anti retroviral therapy (cART) initiation, thus improving clinical outcomes. Here, we investigate its impact on the linkage to care in voluntary counselling and testing centers (VCT) in Warsaw. Material and methods: All clients, who presented at the two VCTs in Warsaw and had positive ELISA tests, were offered the lymphocyte CD4+ test simultaneously with the WB test. All tests were anonymous. Data collected between 2012-2013 from the VCTs were linked with HIV clinic records using the WB test numbers as unique identifiers. Persons registered in HIV clinics were considered linked to care. Results: In total, during 2012-2013, one hundred and twenty-three clients were tested as HIV-positive in the VCTs. Of these, 30 had their lymphocyte CD4+ count tested, while 42 (65.8%) clients were linked to HIV care. The linkage rate did not differ between the lymphocyte CD4+ test groups (66.7% of tested vs. 65.6% of non-tested for the lymphocyte CD4+; p = 0.91). There was also no significant difference in time to linkage, p = 0.52. In total, 66 (65.8%) clients started cART - 19 (28.8%) in the lymphocyte CD4+ group, and 47 (71.2%) in other (p = 0.07). However, there was a significant difference in the time for starting cART, p = 0.005. Conclussion: In Poland, a resource-rich country, simultaneous lymphocyte CD4+ and HIV testing at counselling and testing centers had no effect on linkage to care, but did have a positive impact on time to starting cART. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of AIDS & Behavior is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: To assess reproductive health service utilization and associated factors among adolescents in Anchar District, West Hararghe Zone, Oromia Region, East Ethiopia. Materials and methods: A community based cross-sectional study using quantitative and qualitative method of data collection was applied from March 1to 30, 2013. Simple random sampling method was used for quantitative and Purposive sampling technique used for qualitative method. Four hundred two adolescents were interviewed for quantitative study. Four focus groups and ten in-depth interviews were conducted for qualitative study. Binary and Multiple logistic regressions were used for association at p < 0.05 using SPSS Version 16.0 software. Qualitative data was transcribed, and result was presented by narration. Results: Forty two (39.3%) female adolescents have ever used family planning. One hundred eight four (45.8%) adolescents have ever used VCT services. Males were 5.25 times more likely to use VCT than females (AOR = 5.25, C.I = 1.07, 25.87) and those perceived themselves as high risk for HIV were 8.22 times more likely to use VCT than their counterparts (AOR = 8.22, C.I = 1.065, 35.49). Lack of adolescent reproductive health services, Harmful Traditional Practices, lack of privacy and inconvenient service hour were reasons for not utilizing the service. Conclusion: More than half of adolescents were not utilizing family planning, and VCT services. Therefore, intensified effort is needed to increase utilization of these services for adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates the importance of utilising official statistics from the voluntary counselling and testing centres (VCT) to determine the association between gender and HIV infection rates in Kenya. The study design adopted was a record based survey of data collected from VCT sites in Kenya between the second quarter of 2001 and the second quarter of 2004. Of those who were tested, significantly more females tested positive (P

With increased coverage of voluntary HIV counselling and testing (VCT) in Rwanda and a greater focus on repeat testing of key populations, it is important to understand whether the right clients are returning for repeat testing and if repeat testing is effective at reducing risk. We assessed the association between repeat testing and recent sexual risk behaviours among 1852 first time or repeat HIV testing clients in Kigali who had had sex, using data from a cross-sectional survey. Repeat testing was associated with being female, older and type of occupation. Multivariable analyses indicate that individuals who tested for HIV 1-2 times (aOR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.08, 2.15) and 3+ times (aOR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.06, 2.17) previously were more likely to report recent unprotected sex. Those with 3+ previous tests were more likely to have recently had multiple sexual partners (aOR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.22, 3.92). However, a significant decrease in HIV prevalence is shown as individuals receive more HIV tests in their lifetime (p < 0.001). These findings show that individuals who report high-risk behaviours are returning for repeat tests. However, VCT may not be successful at addressing certain sexual risk behaviours. Therefore more intensive counselling or additional HIV prevention services may be needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite substantial progress in implementing HIV testing, challenges remain in achieving widespread uptake particularly in rural resource-limited settings. We sought to understand motivations for HIV testing in a community-based HIV testing programme in rural South Africa. We conducted a questionnaire survey in participants undergoing voluntary HIV testing within an ongoing community-based integrated HIV/tuberculosis intensive case finding programme at congregate rural settings. Participants responded to a six-item non-mutually exclusive motivations survey which included the topics of feeling ill, recent HIV exposure, risky lifestyle, illness in a family member, and pregnancy. Among 2068 respondents completing the survey, 1393 (67.4%) were women, median age was 40 years (IQR 19-56), and 1235 (59.7%) were first-time testers. Among all testers, 142 (6.9%) were HIV-positive with median CD4 count was 346 cells/mm(3) (IQR 218-542). Community-based testing for HIV is acceptable and meets the needs of community members in rural South Africa. Motivations for HIV testing at the community level are complex and differ according to gender, age, site of community testing, and HIV status. These differences can be utilised to improve the focus and yield of community-based HIV screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]