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SRA743 - Trans-National Mega Projects
Unit details
|2015 unit information
|Enrolment modes:
|Trimester 2: Waterfront (Geelong)
|Credit point(s):
|EFTSL value:
|Unit chair:
Mirjana Lozanovska
|Incompatible with:
|Contact hours:
4 x 3 hour class per trimester, 3 x 2 hour class per trimester, 1 x 1 hour class per trimester. 3 x 3 hour seminars per trimester, 1 x 2 hour seminar per trimester, 3 x 1 hour seminars per trimester. Students are expected to attend 3 hours per week.
Architects engage in projects outside their national and cultural boundaries. While this is not new, and while some of the most exciting urban and architectural designs have resulted from these exchanges, the current practices present some crucial differences to precedents. This unit seeks to firstly investigate what constitutes trans-national mega projects, and secondly to identify and examine their scope, premise, objective and effects. The unit has a focus on the analysis of projects in three categories: accelerated urbanism - large projects which radically alter a place (examples in India, Vietnam, China, Thailand, Ukraine, Poland, Slovenia, Croatia, Emirates); quintessential global cities - extensive urbanisation in Dubai, Bombay, Shanghai, Tokyo; and reconstruction in disaster sites (Sri Lanka, Phuket, Turkey, Beirut, Baghdad, Sarajevo). Classes will provide the basis for potential theoretical frameworks. Presentations and seminars will provide the forum for the development of intellectual and analytical debate and contribution to this discourse. The unit aims to gain understanding and develop critical positions in relation to this crucial global urbanism in order to develop a platform for design evaluation.
Seminars and exercises 60%, group research project 40%
Unit Fee Information
|Student Contribution Rate*
|Student Contribution Rate**
|Fee rate - Domestic Students
|Fee rate - International students
* Rate for all CSP students, except for those who commenced Education and Nursing units pre 2010
** Rate for CSP students who commenced Education and Nursing units pre 2010
Please note: Unit fees listed do not apply to Deakin Prime students.


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These are the bookings for the Doris C. Gravat Detention Center for Oct. 8 Some of the people listed may not have actually spent time in jail if they posted bond and were released. Although those listed have been arrested and charged, that does not mean they have been found guilty. Bookings may be viewed at www.aikenstandard.com.
Timothy Ray — driving under the influence, unsafe tire (slick), open container of beer/wine, minor purchase/possession of beer wine
Jamarion Bell — criminal domestic violence first offense, disorderly conduct
Jacky Blackwood — criminal domestic violence
Stephanie Morales — assault and battery third degree
Elton Williams — unlawfully carrying of a pistol
Jimmie Johnson — disorderly conduct/gross intoxication
Brandon Williams — unlawful carrying of a pistol
Steven Scott — simple possession of marijuana
Samuel Booher — simple possession of marijuana
April Padgett — failure to pay child support
Gregory Pou Jr. — parole violation
Jacob Swartzlander — driving under suspension second offense, possession of other controlled substance in schedule I to V first offense three counts, trafficking in methamphetamine or cocaine base first offense
Matthew Williams Jr. — open container of beer/wine sentence
Virginia Grant — no South Carolina driver's license bench warrant
Keith Gaines — driving under suspension sentence
Gary Means Jr. — hold for general sessions court
Brittney Mineau — violation of probation
Andy Thomas — driving under suspension second offense
Dennis Murphy Jr. — criminal domestic violence first, second and third offense
Monty Boatwright III — driving under suspension first offense commitment
Douglas Stroman — driving under suspension third offense
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subset: commoncrawl


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Weidman won't entertain Johny Hendricks super fight, Jon Jones on the other hand...
His words on The MMA Hour:
"If I was at the top and he's (Jones) at the top, then that's the guy I'd want to fight, but who knows where we will be at that point. I think he'll be at the top for a while and I think I will too, so, you know. But if I had to say right now, then yeah that's the fight I want. I want to fight the best guys in the world. It's not like I'm calling out Jon Jones, but I want the toughest competition and I'd want to fight the people that other people think I can't beat. So he'd definitely be an awesome test for me, so who knows. I don't even think that I'd entertain that (Johny Hendricks fight). Not that he's not good or anything like that, but it just doesn't make any sense to talk about it now. Hendricks hasn't defended his belt yet, and I have more people to fight in my weight class. Nothing to talk about right now. On top of that, I would never call out a guy who's smaller than me. I'm a lot bigger than him, I think. I know he walks around heavy, but I'd feel like I'd have a huge advantage in that fight, so I'm not calling him out. Jon Jones is different. He's taller than me, he's bigger than me, so that's a different story. That would be more of a test for me than Johny Hendricks."


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05 December, 2011 | (01 hr)
Sign In to access this Webcast
While most organizations today would argue that Diversity and Inclusion are core components of their human resources or human capital strategy, how many have actually engaged in what it takes to drive a truly sustainable D&I focused environment? How many have truly approached the from an organizational change perspective? If organizations are to deliver on the promise of enhanced innovation and having a superior employment brand it is critical that they approach D&I from a culture change perspective; and that means applying and/or fully integrating the D&I agenda into core organization development tools and processes.
The purpose of this webcast is to explore the basic premise behind the concept of "inclusive organization development" and to demonstrate though applied examples (from PepsiCo and other companies) ways in which D&I related content can be embedded in the DNA of an organization's people agenda. The data for this presentation will be based in part on a recent benchmark study conducted with a number of Fortune 100 companies (including member companies from the Council of Talent Management I and II) as well as the presenter's experience with others. Following the presentation of results and some case applications there will be a Q&A session.
Specific topics include:
• Definition of Inclusive OD and the link between OD and D&I Core
• Development processes where D&I can play a key role
• Key findings regarding the importance and impact of having a laser focus on participation in D&I related efforts
• Background on the benchmark study
• Findings from the study with specific examples
• Quick wins and implementation challenges to integrating D&I in each area
• Implications for change
This session will be of significant interest to those in organizations charged with either directly owning the strategy and execution of their specific D&I agenda and/or those owners of other internal development processes (e.g., such as surveys, feedback, performance management, talent management, and even capability and training) where D&I is or needs to become an integral part going forward. Those organizations with advanced D&I related programs already in place should find the data and case examples useful as well in further reinforcing their efforts internally, particularly given cost cutting pressures in the current challenging economic environment.
Jean McNulty
For the past 20 years, Jean McNulty has played a leading role in The Conference Board's councils, conferences and research, particularly in the Learning, Leadership Development and Talent Management areas. In addition, Jean's been a key resource for The Conference Board in developing our work on ...Full Bio
Allan Church, Ph.D.
Dr. Church is responsible for leading the enterprise wide talent management and people development agenda for PepsiCo. This includes responsibility for the People Planning process, high-potential identification programs, the Performance Management process, Organizational Health Surveys, and the 3...Full Bio


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Topic: England - Brazil
Friendly match at the new Wembley tonight. Beckham is back for England, but the hosts are missing a couple defenders. Owen is back from the injury that has seen him missing most of last season.
Dunga will use this match to test players etc. for the Copa America. Most of his best players are in this match but Ronaldinho is one of the players missing.
I believe a good bet for this match is draw. And at betsafe you can get 3.25 for a draw in this match, which is pretty good. But its a friendly match, so pretty open.
Please tell me your views on this match.
I will go for a draw, but maybee try a small stake on more than 2.5 goals as well.


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KSU degrees at the Holden Center
At the new Holden University Center at Lakeland Community College you can earn a bachelor's degree in one of the following programs:
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education focuses on professional preparation and application of current theory, methods and practices for future teachers of pre-K-3 classrooms. The program provides early childhood associate degree graduates the 53 remaining hours of coursework to earn their bachelor's degree. The 79-83 hours students earn in their Lakeland associate degree comprise the first 5 semesters, with the remaining 3 semesters offered at the Holden Center by Kent State University. Students are eligible to apply for advanced study in this selective admission program upon completion of pre-requisite coursework and achievement of passing scores on the Praxis I exam and 2.75 grade point average.
Bachelor of Technical & Applied Studies: Computer Technology is an adult-completion degree with optional concentrations in Internet/Multimedia, Networking and Application Development. KSU's BTAS degree applies all of the courses included in students' Associate of Applied Business Degree in Information Technology & Computer Science earned at Lakeland Community College, totaling 74-75 credit hours. The coursework remaining, 53 credit hours, to earn the BTAS degree will be taken with Kent State through a combination of courses offered at HUC and on-line.
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Students learn about the public health care system in the U.S. and abroad and emerging public health concerns. The Kent State University BSPH degree applies a minimum of 64 hours of coursework for Lakeland graduates. Approved as a totally on-line program by the Ohio Board of Regents, students will complete their public health courses, Health Promotion and Education Concentration Courses and remaining degree requirements with Kent State University on-line or at the Holden Center. Students are encouraged to work closely with a KSU Public Health advisor when choosing coursework for their associate degree at Lakeland to maximize applicability toward the degree.


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Description:HP ProCurve 2510G-24 Switch 20 10/100/100 portsManufacturer Part# J9279A
Overview:Designed to provide essential solutions to small and medium businesses the HP ProCurve Switch 2510 Series consists of four Layer 2 managed switches that provide reliable 10/100 and 10/100/1000 connectivity. Building off of the popularity of the HP ProCurve Switch 2510-24 a 24-port 10/100 switch with two dual-personality ports the 2510 series has expanded to include a higher-density HP ProCurve Switch 2510-48 with 48 10/100 ports and four Gigabit uplinks. Additionally the 2510G switches add Gigabit to the 2510 series with the 2510G-24 and 2510G-48 24- and 48-port 10/100/1000 switches each with four dual-personality ports--ideal for businesses that are ready to upgrade to increased network performance.
CategoryNetwork Switch
Part NumberJ9279A
Products ID457459
ManufacturerProCurve Networking
Application/UsageData Networking
Interface Ports20 x 10/100/1000Base-T
Connectivity MediaAuto-MDIX
Data Transfer Rate10/100 Mbps Ethernet Half/Full-duplex
.1000 Mbps Ethernet Full-duplex only
ModelE2510-24G Switch
Dimensions (WxHxD)17.4" x 1.7" x 12.7"
Processor64 MB SDRAM
Switching Capacity48 Gbps
Operating Temperature32°F to 113°F
Rack MountableYes


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Lawrence County Judge-Executive John Osborne told WYMT-TV in Hazard this week that Kentucky Power's decision to shut down its plant in Louisa by 2015 would be a detriment to the area. Considering the number of jobs and tax dollars the plant represents, Judge Osborne's lamentations are certainly understandable.
Lawrence County will be facing the same issues many counties in the southeastern part of the state are already facing, namely a bump in unemployment and reduction in local tax dollars.
"Coal is Kentucky. Coal is West Virginia. I mean that's just what we live off around these parts," Judge Osborne told the TV station, and in reality, therein lies the problem. Our local economy is a single-minded one.
The thousands of jobs the coal industry represents in Eastern Kentucky are good-paying jobs worth saving that have essentially kept this region afloat. But as a region we have utterly failed to build our economy any further in the past century, and now we're seeing the results. Perry County's unemployment rate is bumping against 14 percent, Knott County's is closer to 16 percent, while Harlan and Leslie County are more than 16 percent. That's compared to a state average of less than 8 percent.
That's not to say there hasn't been an effort to attract jobs. Here in Perry County hundreds were brought here by virtue of the Coalfields Industrial Park. But by and large, our efforts to diversify the wider economy of Eastern Kentucky have failed, and were exacerbated by the economic crisis and a federal policy pushing us away from fossil fuels.
In Western Kentucky, according to our own reporting, there was a concerted effort to attract more jobs to the coal counties there. As of February 2013, of the counties in the Western Coalfields, only Muhlenberg recorded an unemployment rate of higher than 10 percent. The Western Coalfields' average rate is 8 percent. And while their coal industry is doing better than ours, they don't rely solely on coal to prop up their economy.
And neither should we.
We believe Eastern Kentucky has a lot to offer, and there are options for diversification ranging from agriculture to tourism to manufacturing. In addition to a focus on the coal industry, there needs to be a focus in other areas. Our one-note economy can't stand much more job loss.
— The Hazard Herald


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Best Semitic Museum Restaurants
Filter by Award
or Gift Card
- Editors' Pick's
- Best Of Category Winners
- Accept LocalEats Gift Card
Filter by Average
Entrée Price
- $ $10 or less
- $$ $11 to $25
- $$$ $26 to $40
- $$$$ $41 to $70
- $$$$$ Over $70
Filter by Cuisine
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Dali Restaurant & Tapas Bar
Somerville, MA 02143
Editors' Pick
Somerville, MA 02143
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Mr Bartley's Gourmet Burgers
Cambridge, MA 02138
Best Burgers
Editors' Pick
Cambridge 1
Harvard Square
Cambridge, MA 02138
Temple Bar
Cambridge, MA 02138
Cafe Pamplona
Harvard Square
Cambridge, MA 02138
LocalEats Gift Cards Accepted (learn more)
Cambridge, MA 02138
Best Brunch
Editors' Pick
Cambridge, MA 02138
Orinoco: A Latin Kitchen
Cambridge, MA 02138
Best Venezuelan
Editors' Pick
Henrietta's Table
Charles Hotel
Cambridge, MA 02138
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Charles Hotel
Cambridge, MA 02138
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Trina's Starlite Lounge
Somerville, MA 02143
Ten Tables
Harvard Square
Cambridge, MA 02138
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Punjabi Dhaba
Inman Square
Cambridge, MA 02139
Anna's Taqueria
Porter Square Galleria
Cambridge, MA 02140
Best Burritos
Ole Mexican Grill
Inman Square
Cambridge, MA 02139
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Cambridge, MA 02140
East Coast Grill
Inman Square
Cambridge, MA 02139
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Highland Kitchen
Somerville, MA 02143
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Cambridge, MA 02139
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Puritan & Company
Cambridge, MA 02139
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Inman Square
Cambridge, MA 02139
Best Mediterranean
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LocalEats Gift Cards Accepted (learn more)
River Gods
Cambridge, MA 02139
Somerville, MA 02143
Editors' Pick
Food Festival & Events Calendar
- August 1International Food & Culture FestivalBoise, Idaho
- August 1Artisan Bread FairSkowhegan, Maine
- August 1-2Big Bite Bacon FestLong Beach, California
- August 1-219th Annual Bluegrass and Beer FestivalKeystone, Colorado
- August 1-3Owensville Watermelon Festival & ParadeOwensville, Indiana
- August 1-31August is Maine Lobster MonthStatewide, Maine
- August 2-5ANFP National Leadership ConferenceOrlando, Florida
- August 3-5Global Summit and Expo on Food & BeveragesOrlando, Florida
- August 5-9Steamboat Wine FestivalSteamboat Springs, Colorado
- August 5-16Ventura County FairVentura, California
- August 6An Evening on the BeachSanta Monica, California
- August 6Best of Philly SoireePhiladelphia, Pennsylvania
- August 6-8Raspberry Days Festival 2015Garden City, Utah
- August 6-9Potato and Corn FestivalNorth Branford, Connecticut
- August 6-952nd Annual Eden Corn FestivalEden, New York
- August 6-16164th Wisconsin State FairWest Allis, Wisconsin
- August 74th Annual Salmon Daze FestivalAnchorage, Alaska
- August 7-8Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival 2015Omaha, Nebraska
- August 7-9626 Night MarketArcadia, California
- August 8Share Our Strength's Taste of the NationOrlando, Florida
- August 836th Annual Sweet Corn FestivalAdel, Iowa
- August 8Blueberry DayEast Sandwich, Massachusetts
- August 8Ciderfeast & Hot Dog ChampionshipNew York, New York
- August 8Charles County Food & Wine FestivalWaldorf, Maryland
- August 8Peach FestivalMedia, Pennsylvania
- August 8Bacon and Beer ClassicPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania
- August 8Bluegrass & BBQ FestPurcellville, Virginia
- August 827th Annual Burger FestSeymour, Wisconsin
- August 8-9Putnam County Wine & Food FestPatterson, New York
- August 8-9Peach Festival & Sidewalk SaleLahaska, Pennsylvania
- August 93rd Annual Taste of Linganore Food & Wine FestivalMt. Airy, Maryland
- August 9The Farmers Dinner with LaBelle WineryAmherst, New Hampshire
- August 9Vineland's Jersey Fresh FestivalVineland, New Jersey
- August 9Long Island Potato FestivalCalverton, New York
- August 9Carytown Watermelon FestivalRichmond, Virginia
- August 11-13Empire Farm Days 2015Seneca Falls, New York
- August 13-1611th North American Organic Brewers FestivalPortland, Oregon
- August 14-16Mammoth Wine WeekendMammoth Lakes, California
- August 14-16Sumner County FairCaldwell, Kansas
- August 14-17Latin Food FestSan Diego, California
- August 14-17Sta. Rita Hills Winegrowers Alliance Celebrates Wine and FireLompoc Valley, California
- August 15The California Fig Fest 2015Fresno, California
- August 15Crane Creek Vineyard's 8th Annual Tomato FestivalYoung Harris, Georgia
- August 15Marlborough Food Truck FestivalMarlborough
- August 15Helena Summer Brewers FestivalHelena, Montana
- August 15SF Street Food FestivalSan Francisco, California
- August 15Everett Craft Beer FestivalEverett, Washington
- August 15-1621st Harvest Grape StompClermont, Florida
- August 15-1617th Annual Rhubarb Frenzy!Chisago City, Minnesota
- August 15-16Wine Tasting in the Hampton'sNew Oxford, Pennsylvania
- August 17East Concord Pork FestivalEast Concord Pork Festival Concord, New Hampshire
- August 18-20Ag Progress Days 2015University Park, Pennsylvania
- August 18-22Alcona County FairMikado, Michigan
- August 205th Noe Valley Wine WalkSan Francisco, California
- August 21Truckeroo Food Truck FestivalWashington D.C.
- August 21-22The National Lentil Festival 2015Pullman, Washington
- August 21-2330th Annual National Championship Musky OpenEagle River, Wisconsin
- August 22Taste of BrewsLong Beach, California
- August 225th Annual Pacific Islander FestivalRohnert Park, California
- August 22Boulder Craft Beer FestivalBoulder, Colorado
- August 226th Annual Rhythm & Ribs BBQ CompetitionAlbion, Nebraska
- August 22Gettysburg Brew FestGettysburg, Pennsylvania
- August 227th Annual Wine & Vine, Etc.St. Francis, Wisconsin
- August 22-23San Diego Spirits FestivalSan Diego, California
- August 22-236th Annual Blackberry FestivalSherman, Connecticut
- August 23Taste of Fond du Lac in the ParkFond du Lac, Wisconsin
- August 23-25Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo 2015Los Angeles, California
- August 24-27Klamath County Fair 2015Klamath Falls, Oregon
- August 25Taste of OakdaleOakdale, California
- August 26-27World of the Latino CuisineSecaucus, New Jersey
- August 27Corks & CanvasBoca Raton, Florida
- August 282nd Annual Farm FreshHillsboro, Oregon
- August 28-298th Annual Big Island Bar-B-QueAlbert Lea, Minnesota
- August 28-29Burning River FestCleveland, Ohio
- August 28-30AquaCureanSavannah, Georgia
- August 29Colorado Cider & Beer CircusCopper Mountain, Colorado
- August 29Breckenridge Summer Beer FestivalBreckenridge, Colorado
- August 293rd Annual Cape Cod Food Truck FestivalFalmouth, Massachusetts
- August 29Taste of the ComstockVirginia City, Nevada
- August 29AleFest DaytonDayton, Ohio
- August 29Tomato & Pear FestivalMedia, Pennsylvania
- August 29Beer & Bacon FestWoodbridge, Virginia
- August 29South Sound Craft Beer FestivalTacoma, Washington
- August 29-30Great Dakota Wine FestivalVermillion, San Diego
- August 30Farm-to-Fork DinnerMilford, New Jersey


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Weidman says he got UFC 162 title fight with Silva only because Evans lost | News
Weidman on Friday, at a UFC Fight Club Q&A session prior to the UFC 159 weigh-ins at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., revealed that he might have been fighting someone else this summer and not going after Silva's belt.
That's because Silva's next challenger was between Evans and Weidman, and all it would have taken for Evans to get the shot which would have required a drop to middleweight from light heavyweight, which he had been teasing as possible for weeks prior was a win over "Little Nog." Instead, Nogueira pulled the upset, and the stars aligned for Weidman.
"It's crazy how this fight ended up," Weidman said. "I had shoulder surgery, and there were a couple of other contenders that were going to (possibly) have the shot Michael Bisping, if he won (against Vitor Belfort in January), would've had the shot instead of me. ... There were a couple guys like Bisping and maybe (Alan) Belcher that were ahead of me. And then it got actually down to me and Rashad. I was with Dana White and Lorenzo (Fertitta) and they said, 'Listen, it's going to be between you and Rashad.' And Rashad ended up losing."
Weidman still remembers how he officially found out he was getting the next shot because it certainly wasn't as simple as Evans being upset, and Weidman knowing for sure he'd be training for a title fight.
The Silva camp didn't just immediately sign on the dotted line. There was a little back and forth that took place first, which White said at the time he's come to expect from the pound-for-pound king.
But then Weidman got the call he'd been dreaming about his entire career.
"I was doing an appearance in New Jersey and was like, 'It's me. I got it,' (when Evans lost)," Weidman said. "But they still weren't saying they were going to fight me, so I just relaxed. And all of a sudden I was in New York and Lorenzo said, 'By the way, I spoke to Anderson. You're going to fight him July 6.'"
Weidman initially had hoped that a win over Tim Boetsch at UFC 155 would get him a crack at Silva. But he was taken out of that fight with an injury. Instead, he didn't have to go through anymore battles and still gets the title shot he had been hoping for.
"It really is crazy how it ended up working out," he said. "Obviously, I'm very grateful for the opportunity. When I got injured I felt like something good was going to come from this."


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So long buddy . . . Who will be here every minute of the day, watching over us while we post?
So long buddy . . . Who will be here every minute of the day, watching over us while we post?
I'd love to see that guy come back and see all the fun his online status garnered.
Darth Vader is becoming the Mickey Mouse of Star Wars.
"In Brooklyn, a castle, is where dwell I"
The use of a lightsaber does not make one a Jedi, it is the ability to not use it.
Would he be able to live up to the legend ? ? ?
I shed a tear for his passing. Gone but not forgotten. Goodbye DeckardSmith.
Who are you?
Why are you?
What do you want?
Geez,Its sad to lose someone
''You fool, my reach is far greater than the Jedi.Only a Sith can wield the force over such a great distance.'' - Darth Sidious
See? I told you the glitch would be fixed when he no longer appeared!
I shed a tear at his passing, and offer a moment of silence, to the man, the myth, the legend, Deckard Smith.
"Roger Nasty Butler!"
Just a "little" note to our True Moderator, Deckard Smith.
"Moisture Farmer? MOISTURE FARMER??
Meesa back!
Just wanted to let everyone know ol' Deckard's still logged in under the old forums.
And does anyone have a tome to explain the new posting method?


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Featured Programs for Kids & Families
Story Time Schedule Fall 2012
Please contact the Youth Services Desk at 973-226-5441 to register for story time programs. Programs start Monday, September 10th and end Wednsday, November 28th.
There will be NO programs the week of Thanksgiving.
Fun Time, Story Time
For children ages 3 - 5
Wednesdays @ 1:30PM
Thursdays @ 10:30AM
Rhyme Time Story Time
For children ages birth - 3 with a caregiver
Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday 10:30AM
Library Stars
For children grades K - 2
Select Mondays at 4:00 PM
September 10th & 24th
October 8th, & 22nd
November 5th & 26th
Tumble books is an online collection or animated talking books for you and your child to enjoy, many of which are read by the author.


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Sharing Your Life Story: From the Page to the Stage Weekend of October 3-5 , 2014
$405.00 – $1,750.00 (based on accommodation type)This workshop's start date has passed.
Workshop Details
As we write, we are both describing and deciding the direction that our life is taking.
-Julia Cameron
Everything in your life, from the mundane to the extraordinary, is a story waiting to be told. This workshop is an invitation to discover your own unique and powerful story. Michel de Montaigne, the great personal essayist, said, "Every man has within himself the entire human condition." The intention of this workshop is for you to delve deep into your own personal narrative.
Writing from your deepest source, gain insight and self-understanding that can bring peace and healing. You will then make your words leap from the page to the stage, sharing them orally to uncover the power of story to transform your life and your listeners.
Through improvisation, writing exercises, and group discussion, you will find your authentic voice, along with an honest, organic way to express your truth. Ann Randolph creates a supportive, fun, and dynamic space in which to create. All levels are welcome. This is a workshop for those seeking to explore personal essay, memoir, solo performance, or the sacred practice of journaling. Topics include:
• Writing exercises to stimulate memory
• Learning to structure the narrative in a compelling way
• Discovering ways to create spontaneously
• Overcoming performance anxiety
• Tools to release yourself from the inner critic
• Transforming your ideas/stories into performance
Recommended reading: Pressfield, War of Art.


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Last night there was a meeting for all parents of 4-year-old soon-to-be-going-to-school children at our local Primary school.
My husband was stuck in London (harumph) so I went alone and paid a babysitter. I was greeted with a cup of tea from the PTA and a sticky name badge with my son's name on it. I took this as an indication of the importance and significance our tots would soon hold in this new environment, a damping down of parental personality so that our kids might take pride of place in the pecking order. All good.
There was a mother crying – well, trying hard not to cry at least. Wow, this is going to be another emotional rollercoaster, I thought. Here we go again.
We met the teachers, toured the classrooms and felt a warm fuzzy glow. I am sure that this would feel just the same whether he were my 2nd child or my 12th. Baby is born. Baby starts walking. Baby grows up. It is unstoppable.
It strikes me that the first day of school is a far more significant event in the life of a mother than it is for the father or even the child themselves. How many of us still remember our own first day at school? I certainly don't. But I'll never forget my children's. Motherhood is a powerful force. A chemical, physical thread which is omnipresent and sends volts of electricity coursing through you when you least expect it.
I remembered back to the day my eldest, now 11, started school (that's him in the photo above). He was such a tiny little man with legs all straight-up-and-down and knees like 'knots in cotton' sticking out from his grey shorts. I remember watching these little people, who had only yesterday been gnawing at our maternal bosoms, taking their first steps into the vacuous classroom and sitting down on the tiny carpet wide-eyed and insecure. I did not cry until I walked away. Wow, my baby is gong to be a man one day!
We have taken to the habit of photographing the children on the very first day of every school term each year in September. They grow before your eyes, but when you put each year side by side this way, it's a fabulous chronological journal of their development. From cute and giggly, to scruffy and cheeky.
His birth seemed like yesterday when I stood in that playground with the other blubbing mums. Now, his first day of school seems like yesterday. My own school days seem so recent that I can hardly believe where the time has gone. I wonder does my father, 76, still feel the same way he did at 20 or 30? He certainly remembers school. He grew up in wartime Britain – here's what he told me about it…..
"The teachers we had, I guess, were there because they were too old to go to War. The women were nearly all unmarried – probably following WWI and the lack of marriageable aged men.
I went to the Grammar school but have no idea how I got in. We couldn't afford a proper uniform so I had a cap and an old jacket with the school badge sewn on it, and cut down men's trousers. I was bullied once that I can remember. They called us the 'New bugs' and I was taunted because I had a scruffy non-standard uniform."
And yet he describes it as the time of his life. No worries, just freedom to play and wander at will. Funny how our memories of our childhood can be selective isn't it? This was the early 1940s. His city was being bombed, his father was dead and his eldest brother was flying in Lancaster Bombers over Nazi Germany. But there in the familiar bosom of his mother, all was fine. He could still skim stones and go to school and learn so much exciting new stuff.
And so I look back to my own early school years with fondness. How the then-vast rooms now seem so tiny. The walk around my son's new school last night included a tour. I was struck by the elf-like toilets and the Hobbit-sized chairs! I have memories of PE in vest and knickers, making tie-dye, playing kiss-chase in the playground and assemblies in the hall. I don't remember my mum taking me on the first day, or leaving me, or any kind of trauma whatever. So, like my dad before me, time must have evaporated the bad memories and left me only with the sweetest smell of nostalgia.
Perhaps it was more than just time. Perhaps the love and attention of my parents placed a blanket of security around me. Perhaps it is not the place, or the time, or the fabric of the school building which makes these memories so sweet. Perhaps it is more the collective memories of the people in an idyllic childhood and the warmth of a loving family which endures?
I endeavour to repeat this process for my own children, so that they will look back upon their time as children with the same warm, fuzzy feelings of nostalgia which I feel writing this today.
Me, Infant School aged approx 6, 1973/4 – front and centre!


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I was pleasantly pleased with this book. At first I was a little apprehensive about the story line. I finally gave in, because I wanted a long story to indulge in and the reviews were amazing. I wish I could thank Stephen King personally for a great story. I also appreciated all the Maine references - and yes I am from Maine. I am recommending this book to all my friends.
I am a fourty-something woman. I met Stephen King when I was about 10 years old and I did not know who he was. My mom made me go to a book signing at a local hardware store, sometime in the mid/late 70's. I still remember the visit - there wasn't a line, but I go his autograph and he listed the novels he had written - only 3 at the time. The reason why I remember the visit, is because my mom made me go and I think she wanted to meet him herself. Anyway, years later, I came across my autograph book, with his signature. Of course at the time I found it, I now knew who I met back then.
Bravo on a great book. I would have liked Jake to go back and marry Sadie, but the ending is fit - great job on the idea to Stephen's son for coming up with the idea for the ending.
Now, what to read next????


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Lanterns Court Serviced Apartments are conveniently located in the Docklands area, just minutes from Canary Wharf and the O2 Arena offering the ideal accommodation for both leisure and business guests.
There are 15 spacious apartments on offer at Lanterns Court Serviced Apartments, featuring innovative fluid designs and classy décor.
These serviced apartments in London's Docklands area enjoy a location in one of the most prestigious developments that form an integral part of the Dockland's skyline.


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To separate the search and the non-search properties, Google added two dividing lines in the More menu. Another change is that the services are no longer sorted alphabetically, but probably by usage. The order for non-search services is: YouTube, Google Calendar, Picasa Web, Google Docs and Google Reader, while in the search area: Google Video, Google Groups, Book Search, Google Scholar, Google Finance, Blog Search.
It's still difficult to understand why Google doesn't let you customize the navigation bar, the same way you can customize it in the new iPhone interface. This will probably encourage more people to use the menu and to go to their favorite services more often.
{ Thanks, Kevin. }
January 22, 2008
Dividing Lines in Google's Navigation Menu
This blog is not affiliated with Google.


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August 5, 2015
WASHINGTON - - A nonprofit group is reporting that the number of law enforcement officers who died while performing their duties declined this year compared to 2011.
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund says 127 federal, state and local officers have died so far this year on the job. There were 165 deaths last year and 154 in 2010.
The organization says the majority of officers who died were either shot or were victims of traffic accidents. The number of firearms-related officer deaths also dropped, as did the number of traffic fatalities.
Texas had the highest number of deaths at 10, followed by Georgia with 8 deaths, and Colorado and Maryland with 6 each.
The memorial fund tallies deaths of officers and maintains a memorial wall in Washington honoring the fallen.
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There is much more than can be done with Endomondo that isn't talked about. I think one thing that sets it apart and should have been out in the social part is "Peptalks". I have a few friends that use Endomondo and getting a Peptalk during a workout is always interesting. Whether it is encouraging or trash taking, it's motivating to know someone is acknowledging your working out.
Along with social... (On the website) You can set up competitions amongst friends. Creates some motivation amongst each other.
In the news feed, with the recent update, you can now see your friends workouts without having to go to the website.
If you go to the website and if your friends are working out, you can track their progress with a live feed on the map. Also,anyone that has a public profile will be displayed as well so you can see other users of Endomondo in your area.
Just a few things I can think of right now.


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Shade grown, certified organic, and Fair Trade. The cooperative of small farmers who grow this coffee are passionate about what they do, and it really shows in the finished product. Attention to details including hand picking the smaller or mis-formed cherries and keeping a clean facility to reduce contaminants and pests are just a few of the things they do to ensure a top quality coffee. The El Salto Cooperative has really benefited from the higher prices Fair Trade affiliation gives them, and many of the extra funds are reinvested to improve the facilities and plantation to ensure continued high quality in years to come. For El Salvador growers who made it through the civil war, this is especially important as many plantations saw a decline during those years when money was very tight. The coffee is rich with malty caramel sweetness, touched with herbal and earthy flavors, and has a delicious bittersweet chocolate lingering finish. We recommend a medium to full city roast.
Related Products
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Academic Resources
Inquiries: Leslie Heaphy, Ph.D.
firstname.lastname@example.com | 330-244-3304
Additional Resources:
History at Kent State StarkStudents who earn a degree in history gain the ability to think critically, read analytically, and research and write effectively. History majors are flexible, able to turn their talents to a variety of different careers. Undergraduates who major in history pursue careers in business, government, public service, the nonprofit sector, law and education. In the last decade, the Department of History has experienced a tremendous increase in the number of students who choose to major or minor in the discipline.
Courses offered range widely across the chronologic and geographic sweep of humankind's existence. Introductory lecture courses prepare students for the challenges of living and working in the global community of the twenty-first century. Upper-division courses provide students challenging perspectives on a variety of topics, providing them with the means to sharpen their reading, research and writing skills. "Special Topics" courses offer unique opportunities to study a subject linked with a faculty member's research expertise or interests.
History Major at Kent State Stark
Students can complete all requirements for the B.A. in history at Kent State Stark.
History Minor at Kent State Stark
Students can complete the history minor in its entirety at Kent State Stark.
History provides a foundation for a number of careers and post-graduate programs. Traditionally, a large number of pre-law students major in history in order to benefit from the critical thinking and writing skills necessary to analyze and process evidence; then learning to make a strong case using evidence. Many teachers and librarians also major in history before attending an M.A. or M.LIS. (MLA) program.
Career Opportunities
Professions within history itself have grown over the years and as states such as Ohio invest more in tourism, park systems and heritage sties these public history fields continue to grow. Likewise, many of our students go on to national and international careers in public history.


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Find the perfect hotel in Marlin using our hotel guide provided below. Find cheap and/or discounted hotel rates in or near Marlin, TX for your upcoming personal or group travel. Explore the most favored Marlin, Texas motel and hotel rooms. Browse the Marlin area hotels to find the perfect lodging! Please use the provided map of the Marlin hotels.
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Phoenix Suns
Suns' Gentry on latest lineup changes: It's worked for us
December 16, 2012: Gentry likes Dudley at small forward, Beasley at power forward
Head coach Alvin Gentry through the first eight weeks of the season has moved his players around as if they were pieces of a puzzle: What combination would fit together the best?
He appears to have settled on one as the Suns have victories in back-to-back games for the first time since late November.
"I'm comfortable right now and this is what we're going to do for awhile because I think it's worked for us," he said of playing Jared Dudley at small forward and bringing Michael Beasley off the bench as a power forward. "We've had some success so we've got to play that way and we'll see where it takes us."
Gentry has made three changes to his starting lineup since opening night. (A fourth was necessitated by an illness to Goran Dragic.)
"I like it because I think it's really helped JD," Gentry explained in moving Dudley from shooting guard where he started the season. "That's where he had his most success last year and the last couple of years here as a 3-man. To have him be able play there and play for extended minutes, I think it's helped him."
The numbers would suggest that's true.
Dudley is averaging 15 points while shooting 58 percent (25-of-43), including 40 percent (6-of-15) from three-point range in four games since returning to the starting lineup. He's scored 60 points, including a season-high 22 against Utah, over what is his best stretch of the season.
"You usually when you're playing the two (guard) you're one of the quicker guys and you're exerting more energy so the three-position is more natural (for me)," Dudley said.
The decision by Gentry to play Beasley at power forward has netted more subtle results.
"I think Michael has played pretty good at 4. He's done some things," Gentry said. "We've been able to put him in situations where I think he can be successful."
Beasley appears more comfortable and more engaged as a 4, where he's able to take advantage of his athleticism against bigger guys.
"I just feel good because I told myself to play good, whether I'm playing the 3 or the 4," he said. "It doesn't really matter to me. I just enjoy playing the game."
His opportunities have also increased according to Beasley. He just has not been able to take advantage of those opportunities.
Beasley admitted his shooting is at an "all-time low," which is accurate. His 37 percent field goal percentage is the worst of his five NBA seasons. He made three of his first four shots against Utah but then missed his last five attempts.
"My (left pinkie) finger is still kind of messed up but I'm tired of using that as an excuse," he said. "I'm going to just keep shooting. They're going to drop eventually."
Beasley's shooting, or lack thereof, is limiting his court time (three straight games playing fewer than 20 minutes) for the moment.
"He's smarter than us all," he said of Gentry. "Whoever he plays is definitely the right choice, for however long and at whatever position. All I can say is just be ready. When your name is called, be ready. Even if you only play five, ten games, just be ready because he's definitely got a plan.
"As long as it equals a �W'," Beasley added, "I'm definitely fine with it."
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Topic: Oil Film Bearing Design/Applications
Presenters: Matt Marchione, Kingsbury, Inc.
Meeting Location
The Scottish Rite
4 Queen Street South
Hamilton, Ontario L8P 3R3
Phone: (905) 522-1622
5:15-6:15 p.m. Hospitality Hour
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$35.00 for members
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Payment is accepted at the meeting. Registration can be done through Membership Chair, Chris Webb. You can contact him at (905) 536-4402 or via email at email@example.com.
See our Yearly Program below to view all our upcoming events.


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Focus Area:Prevention
- HIV Prevention Knowledge Base
- See All Topics
- Topics by Alphabetical Order
- See All Topics
- Combination Approaches
- Biomedical Interventions
- Antiretroviral Therapy as an HIV Prevention Strategy
- Blood Safety and Availability
- Contraception to Prevent Unplanned Pregnancies among Women with HIV
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections
- HIV Testing and Counseling as Prevention
- Infant Feeding for Mothers Living with HIV
- Injection Safety
- Microbicides
- Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)
- Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV Prevention
- Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV
- Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision
- Behavioral Interventions
- Structural Interventions
- Multimedia Resources
- Podcast: Reaching Transgender and MSM Populations through Social Media
- Video on Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC)
- Prevention Update
- HIV Prevention Update: Latest Must-Read Literature
- Subscribe to the Prevention Update
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- Promising Practices (G3Ps)
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- Technical Briefs
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Sign up to receive current HIV technical resources delivered to your inbox. Customize your updates based on your areas of interest.
What can AIDSTAR-One do for you?
From short-term technical assistance to long-term program implementation support and more, AIDSTAR-One provides rapid, evidence-based services to PEPFAR country teams in generalized, mixed and concentrated HIV epidemic settings.
Biomedical Interventions: Microbicides
I. Definition of the Prevention Area
Microbicides are products formulated for individuals to apply topically (vaginally or rectally) to reduce their risk of HIV and possibly other sexually transmitted infections. At present, this approach is experimental, although several broad-spectrum microbicides have been clinically evaluated. Microbicides comprise a subset of approaches to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP); oral approaches to PrEP are addressed in a separate entry.
II. Epidemiological Justification for the Prevention Area
In generalized epidemics, women are at a disproportionate risk of HIV infection for biological as well as social reasons. Although condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV transmission, it can be difficult for women to negotiate safer sex because the male partner often controls whether a condom is used. Microbicides were initially proposed as a woman-controlled or -initiated prevention method for vaginal application, something a woman could use to protect herself.
The first microbicides studied were broad-spectrum compounds that were expected to inactivate HIV and other microbes by enhancing vaginal pH or by coating cell surfaces, preventing the binding of viruses or the entry of microbes into tissue. None of these approaches proved effective.
However, clinical trial results released in 2010 by the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) provided the first proof of concept for microbicide efficacy. This study, CAPRISA 004, found that a topical gel formulation of the antiretroviral drug tenofovir significantly reduced the risk of acquiring HIV and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) in women who use it regularly around the time of sex. However, in late 2011, the gel arms of another clinical trial evaluating daily use of one percent tenofovir gel were stopped early by the trial's data safety and monitoring board because there was no evidence that the gel was effective in reducing the risk of HIV acquisition. (This trial was also evaluating oral tenofovir and oral Truvada). Further analysis of data from this trial, known as VOICE (Vaginal and Oral Interventions to Control the Epidemic), is needed to explain the discrepancy between the two trial results.
Another trial evaluating vaginal use of one percent tenofovir gel is underway using the same dosing schedule as in CAPRISA 004. This trial, FACTS 001, is being conducted by the Follow-on African Consortium for Tenofovir Studies (FACTS) which expects to have data available in 2014. If FACTS confirms effectiveness of one percent tenofovir gel, additional steps will be needed before it can be licensed and marketed. Two safety and effectiveness trials of a vaginal ring containing dapivirine are scheduled to start in 2012.
Researchers are also evaluating whether these products could be safe and effective when applied rectally, given that anal sex carries an even higher risk of HIV transmission for heterosexuals and men who have sex with men. Developing a rectal microbicide is more challenging because the rectal mucosa is highly susceptible to HIV infection. Also, the colorectal tract has a greater surface area than the vagina, requiring a rectal microbicide to have greater coverage. Trials of a rectal formulation of tenofovir gel are moving forward.
III. Core Programmatic Components
Further studies are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of tenofovir gel and other products being developed; it will be several years before this or any other microbicide is marketed. In the meantime, policymakers and program directors need to work closely with the community to put this potential prevention tool to best use. The following key activities will be necessary:
- Support of research to assess how the microbicide might be accepted and used in the local setting. What impact will it have on sexual risk-taking?
- Development of educational materials and campaigns to promote adherence and correct use while helping people understand the potential limitations of products that are only partially effective.
- Buildup of a stable supply chain and strategic distribution plan to ensure access to those who need the microbicide.
- Ensuring access to regular and routine HIV testing, especially rapid point-of-care HIV tests, to reduce the risk that people who are HIV-positive and are unaware of their HIV status will use the product.
- Performing surveillance for adverse events and for detection of any increase in HIV transmission or the possibility of individuals not yet on antiretroviral therapy developing drug resistance.
IV. Current Status of Implementation Experience
While an approved microbicide is not yet available, the clinical trials in Africa and India provide insights into how best to introduce microbicides into communities and fuel hope that women-driven prevention technology might further women's empowerment. For instance, one group in Pune, India, has explored how discussion of microbicides among couples could enhance partner communication about sex.
While the success of the CAPRISA trial is promising, additional work will be necessary to complete the critical next phases of research that could lay the groundwork for large-scale rollout. A number of additional trials over the coming years should deliver further results.
Microbicide Trials Network Statement on Decision to Discontinue Use of Tenofovir Gel in VOICE, a Major HIV Prevention Study in Women
Microbicide Trials Network, November 25, 2011.
The Microbicide Trials Network dropped tenofovir gel from its Vaginal and Oral Interventions to Control the Epidemic (VOICE) trial following a routine Data Safety and Monitoring Board review that concluded that tenofovir gel was not effective in preventing HIV in the women enrolled in the trial. VOICE, an HIV prevention trial, has been evaluating two antiretroviral approaches for preventing the sexual transmission of HIV in women—daily use of one of two different antiretroviral tablets (tenofovir or tenofovir emtricitabine) or of a vaginal gel. The trial has enrolled 5,029 women at 15 sites in Uganda, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, and had earlier discontinued the oral tenofovir. The study found no safety concerns with any of the study products. It is not clear why tenofovir gel did not reduce the risk of HIV acquisition among women in this trial when an earlier trial (CAPRISA 004, which followed a different dosing schedule) showed a reduction in risk. Complete analysis of the trial data will take place after the trial is completed and all of the data are analyzed. The trial team expects results to be available in late 2012 or early 2013.
Effectiveness and Safety of Tenofovir Gel, an Antiretroviral Microbicide, for the Prevention of HIV Infection in Women
Abdool Karim, Q., Abdool Karim, S. S., Frolich, J. A., et al. Science (2010), Vol. 329 No. 5996, pp. 1168–1174.
This is the first clinical trial indicating the effectiveness of a vaginal microbicide in reducing HIV infection in women. Nearly 900 sexually active women aged 18 to 40 in Durban and Vulindlela, South Africa, were randomized to receive tenofovir or placebo within 12 hours before having sex and as soon as possible within 12 hours after having sex. Monthly support meetings with participants highlighted the importance of consistent and correct microbicide use, identified ways to overcome obstacles to use, and set goals for perfect adherence for each month. Despite this, 40 percent of the study participants used the gel for less than 50 percent of sex acts. After 12 and 24 months of follow-up, HIV incidence in the tenofovir arm was 50 percent and 40 percent lower than the placebo arm, respectively. HIV incidence among women with the best adherence was 54 percent lower than placebo, indicating that effectiveness was linked to adherence. Furthermore, the study found tenofovir safe. Despite the small sample size, this study provided "proof of concept" for tenofovir microbicide prophylaxis. More studies are needed to corroborate these findings.
Intravaginal Insertion in Kwazulu-Natal: Sexual Practices and Preferences in the Context of Microbicide Gel Use
Gafos, M., Mzimela, M., Sukazi, S., et al. Culture, Health, and Sexuality (2010), Vol. 12 No. 8, pp. 929–942.
Cited preferences for "dry" sex among certain populations in sub-Saharan Africa raise concerns about the acceptability of vaginal gel microbicides. To identify whether such use would be problematic, 118 in-depth interviews and 15 focus group discussions with women participating in a microbicide gel trial in Kwazulu-Natal and their partners collected detailed information on intravaginal insertions. Unexpectedly, 49 of 63 interviewed women and 4 of 8 men said the microbicide enhanced their sexual pleasure; the remainder reported no effect of the microbicide on their sexual experience. Participants stated that the gel increased sexual pleasure by making sex "hot," "tight," "smooth," and "dry." Women also reported enjoying the lubricating effect of the gel. According to this research, the notion of "dry" sex is not one of complete dryness, just lack of excessive wetness in the vagina. Furthermore, as intravaginal "potions" were commonly used to improve sexual pleasure among this population, a microbicide may be more easily understood in a local context using local terms. The authors conclude that microbicides may be more acceptable for HIV prevention than expected, as previous associations between intravaginal insertions and dry sex were "overstated."
International Microbicides Conference 2010: Program & Abstracts
Microbicides Trial Network. (2010).
This document contains the abstracts of all oral presentations and poster sessions given at the 2010 International Microbicides Conference. Organized by conference days, readers can browse through the content, search the document for authors or keywords, or scroll to the author index at the back of the document. The theme of this conference was "Building Bridges to HIV Prevention," which is reflected in the abstracts.
An Acceptability and Safety Study of the Duet® Cervical Barrier and Gel Delivery System in Zimbabwe
Montgomery, E. T., Woodsong, C., Musara, P., et al. Journal of the International AIDS Society (2010), Vol. 13, p. 30.
This study assessed the acceptability of the Duet® cervical barrier together with a gel in 103 primarily married women in peri-urban Zimbabwe. Women were randomized to use the Duet continuously for 14 days, then only use it before having sex; another arm was randomized to the same regimen in reverse sequence. Approximately 90 percent of the women reported adhering to their assigned regimen 80 percent of the time. Overall, acceptability was high. Half of the participants preferred using the barrier during sex, 39 percent preferred continuous use, and the remainder reported no preference. The most positive attribute women assigned Duet was "normal/natural sex." No serious adverse events were found among the study participants. Of note, 5 percent of women in both arms reported unspecified "fear" related to use. This study was small and only followed women for one month. Longer-term use may affect acceptability; adverse events may also differ with long-term use.
Microbicides in the Prevention of HIV Infection: Current Status and Future Directions
Nuttall, J. Drugs (2010), Vol. 70 No. 10, pp. 1231–1243.
An in-depth review of the history of microbicide development for HIV prevention, this article also presents new microbicides under development. These include antiretroviral drugs and drug combinations that can be administered in different ways, including daily delivery and sustained delivery mechanisms. In addition to specifically targeted HIV replication, new product options related to timing of use can potentially improve product effectiveness. Potential new microbicides, however, come with concerns about toxicity and resistance. Additional challenges to microbicide development, such as need to remain stable in a tropical environment, are also addressed in the article. The author details concerns and further challenges to introducing a microbicide widely in a population, including knowing its safety profile among pregnant women or women who want to become pregnant. Despite recent encouraging news about microbicides, the road to their widespread and effective use for HIV prevention remains long.
In Vitro and Ex Vivo Testing of Tenofovir Shows It Is Effective As an HIV-1 Microbicide
Rohan, L. C., Moncla, B. J., Kunjara Na Ayudhya, R. P., et al. PLoS ONE (2010), Vol. 5 No. 2, p. e9310.
Describing their in vitro and ex vivo testing of tenofovir, the authors make the case that preclinical testing of microbicide products has advanced tremendously over the last decade. Previous microbicides shown to cause cell irritation were not tested so extensively prior to their use in phase II and phase III trials. This study used human ectocervical and colorectal tissue to understand the effects of tenofovir gel on such tissue. In vitro tests found viscosity similar to other commonly-used vaginal and rectal lubricants, constant tenofovir release rates in the gel, and penetration of the drug into mucosal tissue, albeit at varying rates. The gel had no negative effect on vaginal flora, even in the presence of four different bacteria, including gonorrhea. Furthermore, tenofovir reduced the presence of HIV in the tests. Thus the authors conclude that tenofovir is effective and may be a viable candidate for pre-exposure prophylaxis in humans.
HIV "Prevention" Gel PRO 2000 Proven Ineffective
Microbicides Development Programme. (2009).
This press release from the Microbicides Development Program (MDP) summarizes the outcome of the MDP 301 trial that tested the effectiveness of PRO 2000 vaginal microbicide gel against placebo for HIV prevention. Disappointingly, data from over 9,000 women in four countries in Africa over 12 months (24 months in Uganda) found no difference in HIV acquisition rates between microbicide and placebo users. HIV incidence was 4.5 per 100 women years in the PRO 2000 group and 4.3 per 100 in the placebo group. Readers can find links to PDF files after the press release with additional information, including questions and answers about the trial, the results, quick facts, a technical fact sheet, and "Women's Voices," a sheet with study participants' perspectives of the trial.
Complete Protection from Repeated Vaginal Simian-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Exposures in Macaques by a Topical Gel Containing Tenofovir Alone or with Emtricitabine
Parikh, U. M., Dobard, C., Sharma, S., et al. Journal of Virology (2009), Vol. 83 No. 20, pp. 10358–10365.
Safety and efficacy studies are needed before microbicides can be tested in humans. This trial assessed how well tenofovir (TVF) vaginal gel or TVF with emtricitabine (FTC) protected 17 macaques from simian HIV (SIV) infection over a period of 20 weeks. The gel was administered twice weekly; simian-human immunodeficiency virus was administered 30 minutes after the gel. Five of six macaques in the placebo arm and both in the control arm (no intervention) became infected with SIV in an average of 2.5 weeks. None of the six macaques assigned active gel (TVF alone or TVF+FTC) became infected over 20 weeks (40 total SIV exposures). Furthermore, there was no evidence of damage to vaginal mucosa with use of either active microbicide. Despite study limitations, the authors conclude that this study suggests TFV gel can be used before intercourse to protect women from SIV without the need for daily use.
Predictors of Adherent Use of Diaphragms and Microbicide Gel in a Four-Arm, Randomized Pilot Study Among Female Sex Workers in Madagascar
Turner, A. N., Van Damme, K., Jamieson, D. J., et al. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (2009), Vol. 36 No. 4, pp. 249–257.
Researchers undertook this pilot study to identify ways to maximize adherence to diaphragms and microbicide gel ahead of a future study on microbicide effectiveness. Nearly 200 female sex workers (FSWs) in four cities in Madagascar were randomized into four groups: the gel microbicide Acidform plus diaphragm; placebo gel plus diaphragm; placebo gel; and Acidform gel. These were collapsed into two arms for data analysis: diaphragm plus gel or gel alone. Weekly follow-up meetings over one month collected information on product use and sexual practices with clients and regular partners. A statistically significant difference was found in adherence among women randomized to diaphragms (43 percent at first follow-up and 67 percent at last follow-up) compared to gel-only users (28 percent at first follow-up and 45 percent at last follow-up). Compliance improved over time in both groups. The authors believe this was due to the product protocol: diaphragm insertion was a daily event independent of sex, while the gel was to be used prior to coitus. Study findings will help develop counseling messages for future microbicides studies, helping women understand that discreet use is possible, but also indicating that some women choose to disclose product use to their partners.
Prevention of SIV Rectal Transmission and Priming of T Cell Responses in Macaques after Local Pre-exposure Application of Tenofovir Gel
Cranage, M., Sharpe, S., Herrera, C., et al. PLoS Med (2008), Vol. 5 No. 8, p. e157.
HIV transmission during anal sex is higher than with vaginal sex due to physiologic factors. As such, a microbicide that can be safely used with anal intercourse could benefit heterosexual and homosexual couples alike. This study in 16 macaques assessed the effectiveness of a rectal tenofovir microbicide gel in preventing simian HIV (SIV) when administered up to two hours before and 15 minutes after rectal exposure to SIV. All placebo-arm macaques and two of the three receiving tenofovir after HIV exposure became infected with SIV. Eight of nine macaques assigned tenofovir before HIV exposure were completely or partially protected from SIV. The higher the tenofovir concentration in the blood 15 minutes after its administration, the greater the protection against SIV. Activated T-cells were found in the blood of the macaques protected from SIV, indicating that such exposure may be able to "prime and/or boost immune responses elicited with experimental vaccines." This study's results suggest that tenofovir rectal microbicide gel may have promise in humans.
Vaginal Microbicides and the Prevention of HIV Transmission
Cutler, B., & Justman, J. The Lancet Infectious Diseases (2008), Vol. 8 No. 11, pp. 685–697.
This review of 118 studies—45 clinical and 73 preclinical—from a biomedical perspective assesses the state of microbicide development for HIV prevention. The authors first discuss the sexual HIV transmission pathways and how microbicides are being developed to address them. The different types of microbicides (e.g., viral entry inhibitors) are described, along with the current state of research for each type. The authors also discuss epidemiological and biological issues that make microbicide research challenging. Epidemiologic issues include HIV incidence, study populations, and discreet use of microbicides. Among biologic challenges are developing combination microbicides when each component must be first tested individually. The authors conclude that while the development of effective microbicides is difficult, the potential benefits are so great that they greatly outweigh any known risks—and possibly unforeseen risks as well.
SAVVY Vaginal Gel (C31G) for Prevention of HIV Infection: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Nigeria
Feldblum, P. J., Adeiga, A., Bakare, R., et al. PLoS ONE (2008), Vol. 3 No. 1, p. e1474.
Over 2,100 women in Lagos and Ibadan, Nigeria participated in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of SAVVY vaginal microbicide gel in preventing HIV transmission. Participants filled out monthly questionnaires on sexual behavior, condom use, gel use, and any medical problems and were given 60 condoms and 60 vials of gel every month. Condom and gel use decreased over the 12-month study period over time, but was generally high. Adverse event rates were the same in both study arms, with no significant difference in chlamydia, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, or trichomoniasis rates between arms at the six-month follow-up visit. The study ended early due to lack of power to detect a statistically significant difference in HIV rates between study arms. While the ratio of HIV infections was higher in the SAVVY arm than placebo, the difference was not statistically significant. However, because of the study's low power, the results cannot conclusively support that SAVVY does not increase risk of HIV infection. This study highlights research challenges in measuring microbicide effectiveness.
Rectal Microbicide Development
McGowan, I. Current Opinion in HIV and AIDS (November 2012), Vol. 7 No. 6, pp. 526-33.
This article describes the progress made in recent years to develop microbicides—gels, suppositories, or other topical formulations that prevent HIV—for rectal use. The design and results of early vaginal microbicide trials informed the research direction for evaluating potential rectal microbicide candidates, as did early acceptability studies among men who have sex with men, who are highly vulnerable to HIV because of the common practice of unprotected receptive anal intercourse. Most rectal microbicides in the pipeline have reached only the preclinical study stage. Only two products—UC781, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, and tenofovir, a nucleotide inhibitor—have reached the clinical study stage, although L'644, a promising fusion inhibitor, is now also being evaluated. Qualitative and clinical studies of acceptability for different rectal microbicide formulations have found gels to be most acceptable. Rectal safety became the focus of research soon after researchers found that vaginal microbicide candidates were not optimal for rectal use, causing mucosal damage in the rectum; recent research findings show that reducing the glycerin in the formulation may be less harmful. The author describes the preclinical evaluation of four rectal microbicide candidates that have undergone Phase I trials: HIVNET-008 (N9 gel), RMP-01 (UC781 gel), RMP-02/MTN-006 (tenofovir gel), and MTN-007 (tenofovir gel with reduced glycerin). In his conclusion, the author suggests that Phase I studies on rectal microbicides will continue to produce important data on safety, acceptability, and pharmacokinetics that will contribute to early product development.
Topical Microbicides for Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections
Obiero, J., Mwethera, P.G., & Wiysone, C.S. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (June 2012), Vol. 6 No. CD007961.
The authors of this systematic review found that by the end of 2011, nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) enrolling 31,941 sexually active women in 11 countries, with HIV incidence as the primary outcome, had demonstrated limited evidence that vaginal microbicides reduce acquisition of HIV and herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) infection in women. As a result, the authors do not recommend topical microbicides for HIV or STI prevention, but do suggest that development of new microbicides continue. Of the nine RCTs, the authors found that CAPRISA 004, a small proof-of-concept RCT enrolling 889 women, demonstrated that tenofovir—a nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor—may reduce the risk of acquiring HIV and HSV-2. The authors are currently awaiting data from a second tenofovir trial enrolling 5,000 women, which was stopped early due to futility of results demonstrating a protective effect. According to the authors, other types of topical microbicides did not demonstrate a reduction in the risk of acquiring HIV or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and none of the trials demonstrated that microbicides reduce the acquisition of other STIs, including gonorrhea, syphilis, genital warts, trichomoniasis, or human papillomavirus infection. The authors stress that if further studies demonstrate the effectiveness of tenofovir-based microbicides, efforts must be made to achieve rapid regulatory approval and create appropriate mechanisms for distribution.
Next Steps 1% Tenofovir Gel: Meeting Report
World Health Organization. (2011).
The excitement among the international microbicide development community resulting from the positive one-percent tenofovir trial results has given way to a sense of urgency—urgency to rapidly make available an approved, affordable, and easily obtainable microbicide to the world's women. This meeting brought together researchers, advocates, program implementers, funders, and regulatory agencies to identify concrete actions these actors can take to bring the one-percent tenofovir microbicide to women as quickly as possible. The report reviews discussions taking place during the meeting and presents the decisions made on what confirmatory studies should move forward, who will lead licensure efforts, and other necessary steps. Appendix 2 includes a summary of completed, ongoing, and planned microbicide clinical studies of one-percent tenofovir gel.
Sexual Communication Among Married Couples in the Context of a Microbicide Clinical Trial and Acceptability Study in Pune, India
Marlow, H. M., Tolley, E. E., Kohli, R., et al. Culture, Health and Sexuality (2010), Vol. 12 No. 8, pp. 899–912.
Ten married couples in Pune, India, participating in a microbicide clinical trial formed the basis for separate in-depth interviews on spousal communication about sex and sexual matters. Most couples reported nonverbal communication or using code words about sex because they often lived with extended families and usually did not sleep alone. Lack of knowledge about sex and sexuality as well as a lack of privacy limited couple communication. Five couples reported communicating about sex as a "side effect" of being in the clinical trial, despite this not being a part of the intervention. In addition to initiating discussions about HIV, these couples also reported appreciating having a space to talk about sex openly in the interviews. Many couples reported that their improved communication had a positive effect on their overall relationship. While this sample is not representative of Indian couples at large, it does indicate starting a dialogue about sex and sexuality encourages more communication about sex among the couple. Such communication is the crucial first step to reducing one's risk of HIV.
Standards of Prevention in HIV Prevention Trials: Consultation Report and Recommendation
McGrory, E., Philpott, S., Hankins, C., et al. (2010).
This report of a consultation attempts to clarify 2007 Joint U.N. Programme on HIV/AIDS and World Health Organization guidance on prevention standards in HIV prevention trials. As new research and evidence emerge about what is effective in preventing HIV, studies and trials will have to include these new technologies as standards of care in their work. Thus this report tries to translate ethical guidance into day-to-day research practice, taking into account that the guidelines were intentionally written to be flexible, given vastly differing circumstances, epidemics, and access to care. This report reviews the evidence on "what works," realities of implementing prevention trials, and the current standard of care for HIV prevention trials. It also presents points of agreement and disagreement among the participants of the consultation, and identifies needs for additional guidelines and criteria for those undertaking HIV prevention research.
Women's Empowerment? Contradictory Reports of Female Autonomy towards Female-Initiated HIV Prevention Methods in Zimbabwe
Montgomery, E., Cheng, H., Woodsong, C., et al. 18th International HIV/AIDS Conference, July 18-23,(2010, Vienna, Austria).
This poster presentation explores women's attitudes to discreet use (use without their partner's knowledge) of a cervical barrier together with a microbicide. Among 83 married women in the trial, all had told their primary male partners about their use of the method by the end of the four-week trial. Focus group discussions among 41 women, however, indicated that they would use the barrier/microbicide without telling their primary partner if necessary. The rationale for telling their partners was to facilitate communication between the couple and avoid any problems should the use be found out. When probed about the reasons for discreet use, however, the women stated that they would indeed use a method that would protect them from HIV, given that most men are likely to have partners on the side. They felt it was important to safeguard their health, and therefore, that of their family. Telling partners about microbicide use may be a way to enlist male support for women's protection from HIV. Furthermore, the trial demonstrated to women that the method can indeed be used without their partners knowing about it.
Towards Microbicide Rollout in Sub-Saharan Africa: Ensuring Microbicides are an Effective Tool for HIV Prevention and Women's Empowerment
Kunda, R., & Gibbs, A. Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division, University of KwaZulu-Natal, (2010).
This brief focuses on the potential of microbicides to integrate HIV prevention and the empowerment of sub-Saharan African women. The authors argue that empowering women can help offset the social, cultural, and economic factors that place women at disproportionate risk of acquiring HIV. Microbicides, they posit, can help become tools of women's empowerment if women's rights are at the forefront of microbicide development, strategy, and roll-out. The authors present four issues that must be addressed if microbicides are to become a tool for both HIV prevention and women's empowerment: effectiveness, availability, stigma, and partner communication.
The First 55 Steps: A Report of the Microbicide Development Strategy's Civil Society Working Group
Forbes, A., Sylla, L., & Yassky, R. Global Campaign for Microbicides, (2008).
Full and active engagement of the civil society in microbicide development can benefit everyone from researchers to the women who stand to benefit from microbicide use. A small working group identified seven priority gaps in microbicide research and development that civil society organizations could fill. The gaps were then broken down into concrete, actionable steps, resulting in 55 action steps for civil society, government/policymakers, researchers, and funders/sponsors. These "interlocking" steps show how each group's work complements and enhances the other groups' efforts. The report also highlights the importance of having an enabling environment to advance microbicide research, and what can be done to create such an environment.
Identifying Optimal Strategies for Microbicide Distribution in India and South Africa: Modelling and Cost-Effectiveness Analyses
Watts, C., Foss, A., Kumaranayake, L., et al. International Partnership for Microbicides and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, (2008).
Developing an effective microbicide is only the first step in saving women's lives. To truly be effective for HIV prevention, microbicides must be made widely available—entailing licensing, regulatory, and service delivery considerations—and be affordable and acceptable to all potential users. Researchers considered these factors when modeling how long it would take to see widespread microbicide use in southern India and South Africa. Stakeholder meetings reviewed women's reproductive health product introduction experiences and identified other key inputs for the models such as approval time and target audience penetration. Fully 120 scenarios were modeled and considered for India, while 156 were considered for South Africa. This paper describes the process and scenarios and juxtaposes the 10 most effective scenarios with the cost-effectiveness of each. While potential exists for microbicides to become another tool for HIV prevention, their widespread use can take significant time and resources.
Awareness and Attitudes Regarding Microbicides and Nonoxynol-9 Use in a Probability Sample of Gay Men
Carballo-Diéguez, A., O'Sullivan, L. F., Lin, P., et al. AIDS and Behavior (2007), Vol. 11 No. 2, pp. 271–276.
Nearly 900 men who have sex with men in San Francisco participated in this random-digit dialing telephone survey about microbicides and Nonoxynol-9 (N-9). Nearly 4 of every 10 respondents sexually active in the last year reported unprotected receptive anal intercourse, while 45 percent reported unprotected insertive anal intercourse. Only 39 percent of the sample knew that N-9 could injure rectal tissue, thus potentially creating an entryway for HIV. N-9 use among these men in the last year was 26 percent. Men reporting recent unprotected anal intercourse were more likely to use N-9, which may indicate risk compensation or that these men are seeking alternatives to condom use for HIV prevention. Only 7 percent believed that N-9 could prevent HIV transmission. Although an effective microbicide was not on the market, 59 percent of the sample understood that a microbicide could reduce the risk of HIV. Interestingly, compared to uninfected men, those with HIV were more willing to use a microbicide that was less effective at preventing HIV than condoms.
Risk Compensation in HIV Prevention: Implications for Vaccines, Microbicides, and other Biomedical HIV Prevention Technologies
Eaton, L. A., & Kalichman, S. Current HIV/AIDS Report (2007), Vol. 4 No. 4, pp. 165–172.
Risk compensation theory posits that individuals will maintain a constant level of risk over time. As risk reduction behaviors are implemented (e.g., condom use), people will adjust other risky behaviors upward to compensate for the safety behaviors (e.g., have more sex partners), thus maintaining the same level of risk as before. This literature review examined whether study participants reported risk compensation behaviors when participating in trials of HIV vaccines, microbicides, male circumcision, and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Evidence was available for ART, HIV vaccines, and circumcision. Although limited, the few studies focusing on risk compensation among HIV vaccine trial participants found evidence of increased risky behaviors. A meta-analysis of highly active ART (HAART) also found more unprotected sex among HAART users who thought that HAART reduced the likelihood of HIV transmission. Similarly, circumcised men had riskier sexual behaviors (more partners and less condom use) compared to men who were not circumcised. The authors conclude that HIV prevention interventions must include risk compensation considerations into their programs.
Hope Against HIV: Microbicide Trials in Your Community
International Partnership for Microbicides. (n.d.).
This video was developed to help with microbicide advocacy efforts, particularly in countries and communities where such research is taking place. It answers basic questions about microbicides (what they are, how they work, how effective they are) as well as addresses HIV prevention and transmission. It also covers essential information about clinical trials. The video is available as a 100-second summary or as the full 20-minute version in English, French, kiSwahili, isiXhosa, and isiZulu.
Microbicide Projects
Population Council. (n.d.).
This webpage contains brief descriptions of the Population Council's microbicide research projects taking place worldwide, with links to more in-depth information about each study. Older trials also have links to documents containing results, while ongoing trials provide descriptions of the work done to date. The research portfolio includes studies that assess ways to improve adherence to product use, different modes of microbicide delivery such as vaginal rings, and user acceptability research. Some novel approaches include computer-assisted self interviews being used in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, the United States, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This technique provides interviewees more privacy and confidentiality than answering aloud in face-to-face interviews.
High Acceptability of a Vaginal Ring Intended as a Microbicide Delivery Method for HIV Prevention in African Women
van der Straten, A., E.T. Montgomery, H. Cheng, H., et al. 2012. AIDS Behavior May 27 [Epub ahead of print].
The study sought to quantitatively and qualitatively explore the acceptability of a vaginal ring (VR) among sexually active women in Tanzania and South Africa. The ring could be used for the delivery of microbicides for HIV prevention if acceptability was high. The VR was provided to 158 women in the randomized trial. The ring had no active ingredient and was, therefore, a placebo. Participants were taught how to insert and remove the VR in the clinic. The women visited the clinic four times throughout the twelve-week trial for an exam and were asked about their comfort levels and experiences with the VR using a questionnaire. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted with the women and their male partners, if the women gave the researchers permission. It was found that the majority of the women were able to successfully insert the VR (81 percent), and that retention over the twelve-week study period was high (97 percent). The women reported few concerns or problems about the VR during the study. The most frequently reported concern (20 percent at week 4) was that it would get lost in their body. The three most favorable characteristics of the VR at the 12-week point for the women was that it may be used someday to prevent HIV, does not interfere with sex, and that you can still use a condom with the VR. The three least liked characteristics of the VR were that it may get lost in the body, may come out during sex, and may change the feeling of sex for the partner. The VR was found to be highly acceptable for both the women and their partners in this study.
Microbicides Essentials Online Course
Global Campaign for Microbicides. (2011).
This informative and engaging online course uses various media to teach people about microbicides, including readings, video clips, animated anatomical and biological graphics, and interactive quizzes. Eight modules cover what microbicides are, how they work, how they are developed, issues related to access and use, and how clinical trials test microbicide effectiveness. Users can take quizzes and tests to assess their knowledge and view videos of advocates answering common microbicide questions. The last module provides an overview of the current microbicide landscape, including mobilizing funding and community support for this method of HIV prevention. (Readers must register to access the full course; registration is free.)
Safety and Effectiveness Study of a Candidate Vaginal Microbicide for Prevention of HIV
Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Family Health International, United States Agency for International Development, & CONRAD. (2010).
This webpage contains the full study protocol for a clinical trial of tenofovir gel as a vaginal microbicide for preventing HIV. In addition to a detailed description of the study design, population, objectives, and regimens, information on eligibility, principal investigators, study sites, and collaborating institutions is available, including contact information. The page also provides links to publications related to this research and additional information on the study.
Microbicides Messaging: Themes to Emphasise and Avoid
Global Campaign for Microbicides. (2010).
As advocates who have been working with members of civil society throughout the world on microbicides, the Global Campaign for Microbicides has extensive experience in communicating about microbicides to multiple audiences. This short brief clearly states seven talking points the organization follows and urges partners to follow. Among the points are the fact that microbicides are not a "magic bullet" and acknowledging that technological tools cannot replace the need for women's empowerment.
Ten Steps to Organising a Community Forum on Microbicides
Global Campaign for Microbicides. (2009).
This short brief provides useful and practical information on how to organize a successful community forum on microbicides. Broken down into 10 steps, the following are included: consideration of partners to co-host, deciding on an agenda that the community would find interesting and engaging, logistics, budget, and spreading the word about the event. Readers can find excellent tips on engaging the media and following actionable steps to ensure ample participation from the local community and members of the media alike.
Preparing for Microbicide Access and Use
McGrory, E., & Gupta, G. R. for the Access Working Group, Microbicide Initiative, (n.d.).
This document argues that in addition to the scientific research taking place on microbicide effectiveness, a parallel path must also take place among the international microbicide community: developing plans for microbicide access and use. Focusing on the five primary dimensions of access—acceptability and use; a supportive policy and social environment; availability; affordability; regulatory approval and licensing—each chapter lays out goals, objectives, and proposed activities that can help ensure that once an appropriate microbicide has been identified, structures are in place to rapidly make it affordable, accessible, and useable.
Communications Handbook for Clinical Trials: Strategies, Tips, and Tools to Manage Controversy, Convey Your Message, and Disseminate Results
Robinson, E. T., Baron, D., Heise, L. et al. Family Health International, (2010).
There is much potential for misunderstanding and controversy surrounding clinical trials. This handbook helps researchers, program managers, and others understand these communication challenges and guides readers on how to best share information with local communities and partners. It includes general communication guidelines, lessons learned from other country experiences, and multiple tools, such as risk assessment tools and sample templates that can sharpen staff skills in accurately answering questions about the research taking place. Sample communication plans as well as tips and techniques on communicating effectively in various fora are also included in the handbook.
AVAC, Global Advocacy for HIV Prevention
AVAC, n.d.
The website offers the latest news on the past, present, or ongoing status of biomedical HIV prevention research studies. Readers can review summary tables from various HIV prevention clinical trials, search information on prevention trials, see what is new on the site each month, and review the user's guide for help in using the site. The site offers information about the following biomedical prevention trials: microbicides, pre-exposure prophylaxis, treatment as prevention, and vaccines.
HIV/AIDS: Microbicides
United States Agency for International Development. (2011).
This webpage provides information on U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) activities related to microbicides, including the agenda, presentations, and meeting report of the high-level Microbicides Stakeholders Meeting in late 2010. Readers can find information on the agency's financial support for microbicides development, their stance on the results of the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa 004 trial, partnerships for microbicide support and development, as well as current USAID activities on microbicides research and development.
Regulatory Issues in Microbicide Development
Stone, A. (2009).
Because microbicides are a relatively new product, little guidance exists on the regulatory requirements needed at different stages of product testing and data necessary for licensure. To address this gap, the World Health Organization held six consultations in Europe, Africa, and Asia from 2002 to 2008. The first consultation drafted the minimal regulatory requirements for microbicide trials and eventual product licensing. Subsequent consultations opened a dialogue among in-country researchers, policymakers, and regulators about microbicide regulatory issues, with an aim to alleviate constraints to microbicide development. This report discusses the role of regulatory authorities in non-clinical and clinical microbicide studies, including safety, effectiveness, epidemiological principals, and pharmacology, as well as issues specific to microbicide use.
View Report (PDF, 578 KB)
Microbicide Research
CONRAD. (n.d.).
This webpage provides an overview of CONRAD's microbicide research activities, starting from some of the first microbicides developed in the 1990s to today's formulations that contain antiretroviral drugs. Readers can click on links to obtain more information on the development process for microbicides, as well as CONRAD's preclinical and clinical microbicide activities. In addition, information is available about their dual-protection microbicides that protect women from pregnancy in addition to sexually transmitted infections and/or HIV.
Global Advocacy for HIV Prevention. (n.d.).
This webpage provides readers with links to microbicide information, including introductory information to those that may not be familiar with the topic. A microbicide fact sheet is available in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Thai for readers to download and disseminate. Readers can also follow a link to a collection of microbicide resources, including question and answer sheets and summaries of ongoing microbicide clinical trials. Readers can also link to a page that provides breakdown of clinical trials: ongoing trials, trial results, and planned trials.
Global Campaign for Microbicides
Global Campaign for Microbicides. (n.d.).
The Global Campaign for Microbicides promotes the rapid yet ethical development of and widespread access to HIV prevention options, especially for women. The organization collaborates with all sectors, from civil society to industry, and does not support any one product. This website includes information on microbicides, clinical trials, other prevention options such as female condoms and male circumcision, and more. Resources are available in English, French, Spanish, and Russian.
View Global Campaign for Microbicides Website
How Does It Work? Microbicides
Global Health Council. (n.d.).
This brief fact sheet clearly explains the biology of microbicides and how microbicides may work to help protect users from HIV, complete with references to selected research articles providing more detailed information. A useful graphic shows how a virus enters by disrupting the vaginal skin cell layers and also depicts how microbicides may be able to stop such disruption, and thus, viral entry.
International Partnership for Microbicides
International Partnership for Microbicides. (n.d.).
The International Partnership for Microbicides (IPM) is an organization founded as a product development partnership. Its mission is to speed the development of microbicides and other HIV prevention mechanisms for women in developing countries. Working with partners from academia to biotechnology companies to civil society organizations, IPM has several compounds in development and in various stages of clinical trials. Their website offers information on their work, different HIV prevention products for women, media resources, scientific articles, and other publications about microbicides.
International Rectal Microbicides Advocates
International Rectal Microbicides Advocates. (n.d.).
International Rectal Microbicides Advocates is an organization of individuals worldwide working to advance research and development of safe, effective rectal microbicides for men, women, and transgender individuals to use for HIV prevention. Materials that can be accessed on their website include information on the safety of lubricants for anal use, scientific articles, media stories, fact sheets, and more. This highly interactive site includes blogs and subscription to a moderated listserv. Links are available to sister websites for Nigeria and for Latin America and South America.
View International Rectal Microbicides Advocates Website
The Medium Matters: Applicators are Crucial to Success of Microbicides
PATH. (n.d.).
Something as simple as what kind of applicator is used in microbicides can have a significant impact on the product—for example, its cost, usability, and safety. PATH provides an interesting perspective on product development by describing the considerations behind applicator design, their choices between using single-use applicators and multiple-use applicators, and user-testing. Through this description, readers can see the balancing act required to be able to meet women's needs while also making a product safe and affordable. PATH is now working to obtain regulatory approval for microbicide applicators so that they can quickly be made available once a microbicide becomes available.
International Microbicide Conference
Sydney, Australia, 15-18 April 2012.
The biennial International Microbicides Conference, held in April 2012 in Sydney, Australia, focused on HIV prevention technologies, including the use of antiretroviral-based microbicides and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP); adherence in clinical trials; innovative financing; dual prevention technologies; and new methods of preventing rectal transmission of HIV. In the keynote address, Dr. Salim Abdool Karim, co-principal investigator of the CAPRISA 004 trial, discussed implications and lessons learned nearly two years after the trial provided proof of concept for antiretroviral-based microbicides. In the opening plenary, Dr. Connie Celum of the University of Washington discussed the emerging evidence from recent oral and topical tenofovir-based PrEP trials that have demonstrated efficacy ranging from 39 to 75 percent. She emphasized the ongoing challenges of adherence, risk perception, and delivery of PrEP to most-at-risk populations. She urged researchers to continue to explore longer-acting products that are less adherence-dependent. To address the need for rectal microbicides, International Rectal Microbicide Advocates (IRMA) released a strategy document entitled The Map: Ensuring Africa's Place in Rectal Microbicide Research and Advocacy. Other presenters focused on a variety of topics, including multi-prevention technologies, access to microbicides, and recent findings from PrEP trials. The conference closed with a presentation from Gina Brown, U.S. National Institutes of Health, and Stephen Becker, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, who announced that the biennial microbicide conference will be replaced with a biennial global HIV prevention conference focusing on vaccines, microbicides, and oral PrEP.
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