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Abstract Under-5 mortality remains a significant challenge in resource-limited settings like urban Pakistan. Accurate data on mortality determinants are crucial for effective interventions. This study outlines a mixed-methods approach to refine the CHERG VASA tool for investigating under-5 mortality in Karachi's slums. Objectives: 1) Further validate the CHERG VASA tool quantitatively on a large, representative sample. 2) Gather qualitative feedback from users to assess user experience and identify areas for improvement. 3) Refine the tool based on combined quantitative and qualitative findings. Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design will be implemented across 7 Karachi districts. The quantitative arm will employ stratified random sampling to recruit participants who experienced an under-5 death within the past 6 months. The CHERG VASA tool will be administered, followed by validation analyses including criterion validity against hospital records, content validity, construct validity, and reliability analysis. The qualitative arm will involve cognitive interviews and focus group discussions with participants to explore user experiences and gather feedback. Framework analysis will be used to analyze qualitative data. Tool refinement will be guided by both quantitative and qualitative findings. Discussion: This mixed-methods approach integrates robust quantitative validation with in-depth qualitative insights, leading to a refined and context-specific CHERG VASA tool. This enhanced tool will provide reliable data on determinants of under-5 mortality in Karachi slums, informing targeted interventions and ultimately improving child health outcomes. Keywords: verbal autopsy, social autopsy, validity, reliability, scale validation, mixed-methods .

Abstract Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is an important public health problem that affects both men and women, especially women globally. This study brings to bear, the prevalence and predictors of IPV among women of reproductive age in Plateau state, Nigeria. Materials and methods: An analysis of secondary data from the 2018 NDHS dataset was done. The survey collected data on a sample of women within the reproductive age group 15-49 years in Plateau State. The data set was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Results: A total of 139 responded to the questions on IPV in Plateau state, more of whom are within the age range of 25-39 years (67.6%) and resided in rural areas (77%). The overall prevalence of IPV was 62.6%, that of more severe physical violence was 7.9%, 15.8% for less severe physical violence, emotional violence was 58.3% and 12.2% for sexual violence. Living in rural a rural area (OR=4.28; 95% CI=1.72-10.93), belonging to the middle/rich/richer wealth quintile (OR=0.25; 95% CI=0.11-0.59), and having a partner who has control issues (OR=2.67; 95% CI=1.32-5.38) were significant predictors of IPV. Having a non-professional job also showed higher odds of IPV but it was not statistically significant (OR=1.67; 95% CI=0.56-4.97). Conclusion: The prevalence of IPV among women in Plateau state was found to be high, with socio-economic status significantly predicting its occurrence. Opportunities for improving the socioeconomic status of women in the state, especially those in rural areas should be encouraged by providing better jobs and creating public awareness that would discourage IPV.Keywords: Intimate Partner Violence, women, Plateau state.

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