The paper introduces the concept of B-Almost distributive fuzzy lattice in terms of its principal ideal fuzzy lattice. Necessary and sufficient conditions for an ADFL to become a B-ADFL are investigated. We also prove the equivalency of B-algebra and B-fuzzy algebra. In addition, we extend PSADL to PSADFL and prove that B-ADFL implies PSADFL.

This study was conducted from May to June 2005 to describe the demographic characteristics and factors that affect the VCT acceptance as well as the HIV prevalence among youth VCT acceptors in Addis Ababa. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were employed. The quantitative data was generated from a two years (October 2002 to December 2004) VCT service utilization data obtained from four youth centers located in Addis Ababa. The data was analysed using univariate and multivariate analysis and (...) results were presented in the form of text, table and figures. The significance and level of associations between independent and dependant variables was computed using X2 tests and odds ratios with 95% confidence interval. The qualitative data was presented in a form of narrations using excerpts. During the period a total of 3220, youth age 15 - 24 years have sought VCT service from the four youth centres VCT service outlets. Higher proportions of females (60.2%) and youth in the age category of 20 – 24 years (58.0%) have accessed the service. The major reasons given for seeking VCT were found to be similar for male and female acceptors. About 71.2% said that they sought for VCT service because they wanted to know their HIV status, 9.5% reported because they were suspicious of being infected with HIV and 5.0% tested because they wanted to go aboard. The HIV prevalence rate is found to be significantly higher, (p = 0.00), among females 9.2 % than in males 1.7 %. Gender segregated multivariate analysis of risk factors indicated significant association of HIV infection with lack of formal education for both males and female: for males P= 0.045, OR = 18.3, 95% CI: 1.1 – 317.7 and for females P=0.00, OR=19.4, 95 % CI: 5.1 – 73.8. Additionally for females HIV infection is markedly associated with being widowed and commercial sex worker. The most common barrier for youth in Addis from accessing VCT were found to be: fear of being emotionally affected if found out HIV positive, stigma and discrimination, lack of money to pay for VCT service, absence of care and support services for people who are already infected. The challenges encountered by youth VCT counsellors were stress, absence of medical care for PLWHA, inadequacy of budget, lack of counsellors and supportive supervision. This study showed high burden of HIV infection among female youth and the risk factors associated with it. Formal education for both females and males is strongly recommended. Female focused HIV prevention interventions are indicated. Additional recommendations are also made in relation to barriers to access youth VCT and for the challenges encountered by youth VCT service providers. (shrink)

Background Informed consent is a universally accepted precondition for scientific researches involving human participants. However, various factors influence the process of obtaining authentic informed consent, and researchers particularly working in resource-poor countries often face considerable difficulties in implementing the universally recommended procedures for obtaining informed consent. We have conducted this Rapid Ethical Assessment to accommodate the local cultural norms and to understand the relevant ethical issues in the Silti community before the conduct of a cluster-randomized controlled trial. Methods This REA (...) was conducted in two purposively selected Woredas/Districts and Worabe Town administration of Silti Zone. Data were collected using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Purposive and convenient sampling techniques were used to select respondents. Five in-depth interviews and 15 Focus Group Discussions were conducted in the Amharic language. The collected data was transcribed, translated, and analyzed using a thematic approach. Result Most of the community members never heard about research and therapeutic misconception was common. In the area, the permission of people working in the formal and informal community administration is essential before approaching individuals. The male head of the household should also be involved in the decision before individual household members participate in research. Furthermore, sensitizing the community using public and religious gatherings was suggested before individual recruitment. In the consent process, delivering selected information particularly the purpose and benefits of the research was emphasized and the tendency of preferring verbal consent was documented despite the willingness of the individuals to sign on the consent form. Local health workers were identified as appropriate personnel to communicate information and the procedures of the research were found to be acceptable. However, the value of small incentives was suggested to motivate potential participants. Finally, involving all concerned stakeholders and respecting the cultural norm of the community was emphasized. Conclusion Through REA, we understand the research awareness of the community, their expectation, and the cultural norms relevant to the ethical conduct of research. It enabled us to devise culturally sensitive and scientifically sound strategies to secure authentic informed consent. The process of conducting REA was found to be feasible, quick, and efficient. (shrink)