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Zimbabwe has received substantial external assistance for health since the early 2000s, including funding earmarked for, or framed as, health systems strengthening (HSS). This study sought to examine whether external assistance has strengthened the health system (i.e. enabled comprehensive changes to health system performance drivers) or has just supported the health system (by increasing inputs and improving service coverage in the short term). Between August and October 2022, we conducted in-depth key informant interviews with 18 individuals and reviewed documents to understand: (1) whether external funding has supported or strengthened Zimbabwe's health system since the 2000s; (2) whether the experience of COVID-19 fosters a re-examination of what had been considered as HSS during the pre-pandemic era; and (3) areas to be reconsidered for HSS post COVID-19. Our findings suggest that external funders have supported Zimbabwe to control major epidemics and avert health system collapse. However, the COVID-19 pandemic showed that supporting the health system is not the same as strengthening it, as it became apparent at that time that the health sector is plagued with several system-wide bottlenecks. External funding is fragile and highly unsustainable, which reinforces the oft-ignored reality that HSS is a sovereign mandate of country-level authorities, and one that falls outside the core interests of external funders. The key positive lesson from the pandemic is that Zimbabwe is capable of raising domestic resources to fund HSS. However, there is no guarantee that such funding will be maintained. There is a need, then, to reconsider government's stewardship for HSS. External funders need to re-examine whether their funding really strengthens the national health system or just supports the country to provide basic services in their areas of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HIV testing remains an entry point into HIV care and treatment services. In 2007, Nigeria adopted and implemented a two-test rapid HIV testing algorithm of three HIV rapid test kits, following the sequence: Alere Determine (first test), UnigoldTM (second test), and STAT-PAK® as the tie-breaker. Sub-analysis of the 2018 Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey data showed significant discordance between the first and second tests, necessitating an evaluation of the algorithm. This manuscript highlights lessons learnt from that evaluation. Intervention: A two-phased evaluation method was employed, including abstraction and analysis of retrospective HIV testing data from January 2017 to December 2019 from 24 selected sites supported by the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief programme. A prospective evaluation of HIV testing was done among 2895 consecutively enrolled and consented adults, aged 15–64 years, accessing HIV testing services from three selected sites per state across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria between July 2020 and September 2020. The prospective evaluation was performed both in the field and at the National Reference Laboratory under controlled laboratory conditions. Stakeholder engagements, strategic selection and training of study personnel, and integrated supportive supervision were employed to assure the quality of evaluation procedures and outcomes. Lessons learnt: The algorithm showed higher sensitivity and specificity in the National Reference Laboratory compared with the field. The approaches to quality assurance were integral to the high-quality study outcomes. Recommendations: We recommend comparison of testing algorithms under evaluation against a gold standard. What this study adds: This study provides context-specific considerations in using World Health Organization recommendations to evaluate the Nigerian national HIV rapid testing algorithm.

Abstract Background Uganda implemented its third mass campaign to distribute long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. This context necessitated modification of implementation guidelines. The mass campaign's objective was to ensure that at least 85% of the targeted population had access to LLINs. Methods Revised implementation guidelines were followed while conducting the LLIN distribution campaign. Lessons learned were captured from documented activities and reports. Results A total of 27,789,044 mosquito nets were distributed in 11,287,392 households, with an average of 5.1 persons per household. Household coverage of the LLIN distribution was 94.1%. The 2020/2021 campaign design was modified to follow COVID-19 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). These included using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), e-platforms for training and briefing meetings, electronic data management systems and door-to-door household registration and distribution of LLINs. Conclusions Campaign modifications due to the COVID-19 pandemic were effective in implementing mass distribution of LLINs despite the disruptions and restrictions. The campaign’s net coverage far exceeded its objective. Electronic data management was critical in monitoring and reporting distribution activities.

Background: Uganda implemented its third mass campaign to distribute long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. This context necessitated modification of implementation guidelines. The mass campaign's objective was to ensure that at least 85% of the targeted population had access to LLINs. Methods: Revised implementation guidelines were followed while conducting the LLIN distribution campaign. Lessons learned were captured from documented activities and reports. Results: A total of 27,789,044 mosquito nets were distributed in 11,287,392 households, with an average of 5.1 persons per household. Household coverage of the LLIN distribution was 94.1%. The 2020/2021 campaign design was modified to follow COVID-19 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). These included using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), e-platforms for training and briefing meetings, electronic data management systems and door-to-door household registration and distribution of LLINs. Conclusions: Campaign modifications due to the COVID-19 pandemic were effective in implementing mass distribution of LLINs despite the disruptions and restrictions. The campaign's net coverage far exceeded its objective. Electronic data management was critical in monitoring and reporting distribution activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, Germany, like other high-income countries, introduced mass vaccination centers for administering vaccinations. This qualitative study aimed to examine the role that these novel, temporary government healthcare structures played in a mass immunization roll-out and how they can be optimally deployed. In addition, learnings for general emergency preparedness were explored. A total of 27 high-level policymakers responsible for planning and implementing the COVID vaccination campaign at the national and state level in Germany were interviewed in May and June 2022. The semi-structured interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Interviewees indicated that mass vaccination structures played an essential role with respect to controllability, throughput, accessibility and openness in line with the key success criteria vaccination coverage, speed and accessibility. In contrast to the regular vaccination structures (private medical practices and occupational health services), public administration has direct authority over mass vaccination centers, allowing for reliable vaccine access prioritization and documentation. The deployment of vaccination centers should be guided by vaccine availability and demand, and vaccine requirements related to logistics, as well as local capacities, i.e., public-health-service strength and the physician density, to ensure effective, timely and equitable access. Improvements to the capacity use, scalability and flexibility of governmental vaccination structures are warranted for future pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breeding programs involving either centralized nucleus schemes and/or importation of exotic germplasm for crossbreeding were not successful and sustainable in most Africa countries. Community-based breeding programs (CBBPs) are now suggested as alternatives that aim to improve local breeds and concurrently conserve them. Community-based breeding program is unique in that it involves the different actors from the initial phase of design up until implementation of the programs, gives farmers the knowledge, skills and support they need to continue making improvements long into the future and is suitable for low input systems. In Ethiopia, we piloted CBBPs in sheep and goats, and the results show that they are technically feasible to implement, generate genetic gains in breeding goal traits and result in socio-economic impact. In Malawi, CBBPs were piloted in local goats, and results showed substantial gain in production traits of growth and carcass yields. CBBPs are currently being integrated into goat pass-on programs in few NGOs and is out-scaled to local pig production. Impressive results have also been generated from pilot CBBPs in Tanzania. From experiential monitoring and learning, their success depends on the following: 1) identification of the right beneficiaries; 2) clear framework for dissemination of improved genetics and an up/out scaling strategy; 3) institutional arrangements including establishment of breeders' cooperatives to support functionality and sustainability; 4) capacity development of the different actors on animal husbandry, breeding practices, breeding value estimation and sound financial management; 5) easy to use mobile applications for data collection and management; 6) long-term technical support mainly in data management, analysis and feedback of estimated breeding values from committed and accessible technical staff; 7) complementary services including disease prevention and control, proper feeding, and market linkages for improved genotypes and non-selected counterparts; 8) a system for certification of breeding rams/bucks to ensure quality control; 9) periodic program evaluation and impact assessment; and 10) flexibility in the implementation of the programs. Lessons relating to technical, institutional, community dynamics and the innovative approaches followed are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breeding programs involving either centralized nucleus schemes and/or importation of exotic germplasm for crossbreeding were not successful and sustainable in most Africa countries. Community-based breeding programs (CBBPs) are now suggested as alternatives that aim to improve local breeds and concurrently conserve them. Community-based breeding program is unique in that it involves the different actors from the initial phase of design up until implementation of the programs, gives farmers the knowledge, skills and support they need to continue making improvements long into the future and is suitable for low input systems. In Ethiopia, we piloted CBBPs in sheep and goats, and the results show that they are technically feasible to implement, generate genetic gains in breeding goal traits and result in socio-economic impact. In Malawi, CBBPs were piloted in local goats, and results showed substantial gain in production traits of growth and carcass yields. CBBPs are currently being integrated into goat pass-on programs in few NGOs and is out-scaled to local pig production. Impressive results have also been generated from pilot CBBPs in Tanzania. From experiential monitoring and learning, their success depends on the following: 1) identification of the right beneficiaries; 2) clear framework for dissemination of improved genetics and an up/out scaling strategy; 3) institutional arrangements including establishment of breeders’ cooperatives to support functionality and sustainability; 4) capacity development of the different actors on animal husbandry, breeding practices, breeding value estimation and sound financial management; 5) easy to use mobile applications for data collection and management; 6) long-term technical support mainly in data management, analysis and feedback of estimated breeding values from committed and accessible technical staff; 7) complementary services including disease prevention and control, proper feeding, and market linkages for improved genotypes and non-selected counterparts; 8) a system for certification of breeding rams/bucks to ensure quality control; 9) periodic program evaluation and impact assessment; and 10) flexibility in the implementation of the programs. Lessons relating to technical, institutional, community dynamics and the innovative approaches followed are discussed.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become an accepted modality of treatment in intermediate and high surgical risk patients of symptomatic severe calcific aortic stenosis (AS). We herein report Indian data of 84 intermediate and high-risk patients who underwent TAVR at two Armed Forces cardiac centres. Most of the patients underwent TAVR in cardiac catheterization lab by percutaneous transfemoral approach, under conscious sedation. Patients were followed up and echocardiographic parameters were assessed after six months of procedure. Total of 84 intermediate and high-risk patients underwent TAVR between Jan 2017 and June 2021. Mean age of population was 71.5 ± 8.4 years; 28.5% of patients had bicuspid aortic valve and Mean STS score was 6.34 ± 2.08. Majority (92.8%) patients underwent the procedure under conscious sedation. Self-expanding valves were used in 72.6% and balloon expandable in 27.4% of patients. Predilatation was done in 64% patients while 13% cases underwent post dilatation. Procedural mortality was 2.3%. Rate of permanent pacemaker implantation was 4.9%. Ischemic stroke occurred in 1.1% of patents. There was no case of severe paravalvular leak. Emergency surgical aortic valve replacement was done in 2.4% patients. Procedural success in this study was 97.6%. All-cause mortality was 9.5% at 6 months. TAVR is an effective treatment modality in intermediate and high-risk Indian patients with severe aortic stenosis. Patients with bicuspid or previous bio prosthetic aortic valves also have a good outcome post TAVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HIV testing remains an entry point into HIV care and treatment services. In 2007, Nigeria adopted and implemented a two-test rapid HIV testing algorithm of three HIV rapid test kits, following the sequence: Alere Determine (first test), Unigold TM (second test), and STAT-PAK ® as the tie-breaker. Sub-analysis of the 2018 Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey data showed significant discordance between the first and second tests, necessitating an evaluation of the algorithm. This manuscript highlights lessons learnt from that evaluation., Intervention: A two-phased evaluation method was employed, including abstraction and analysis of retrospective HIV testing data from January 2017 to December 2019 from 24 selected sites supported by the United States President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief programme. A prospective evaluation of HIV testing was done among 2895 consecutively enrolled and consented adults, aged 15-64 years, accessing HIV testing services from three selected sites per state across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria between July 2020 and September 2020. The prospective evaluation was performed both in the field and at the National Reference Laboratory under controlled laboratory conditions. Stakeholder engagements, strategic selection and training of study personnel, and integrated supportive supervision were employed to assure the quality of evaluation procedures and outcomes., Lessons Learnt: The algorithm showed higher sensitivity and specificity in the National Reference Laboratory compared with the field. The approaches to quality assurance were integral to the high-quality study outcomes., Recommendations: We recommend comparison of testing algorithms under evaluation against a gold standard., What This Study Adds: This study provides context-specific considerations in using World Health Organization recommendations to evaluate the Nigerian national HIV rapid testing algorithm., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no financial or personal relationships that may have inappropriately influenced them in writing this article., (© 2024. The Authors.)

This article is dedicated to doing a detailed review of the aforementioned book entitled Life Under Lockdown: Lived Experiences and Lessons Learnt by Professor Sanjai Bhatt, Department of Social Work, University of Delhi,3, University Road, Delhi 110007, India; Immediate Past President, National Association of Professional Social Workers in India; Immediate Past President,(South Asia), International Council on Social Welfare, Alliance Ambassador, GSSWA.

Abstract Background Following the West Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak (2013–2016), WHO developed a preparedness checklist for its member states. This checklist is currently being applied for the first time on a large and systematic scale to prepare for the cross border importation of the ongoing EVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo hence the need to document the lessons learnt from this experience. This is more pertinent considering the complex humanitarian context and weak health system under which some of the countries such as the Republic of South Sudan are implementing their EVD preparedness interventions. Main text We identified four main lessons from the ongoing EVD preparedness efforts in the Republic South Sudan. First, EVD preparedness is possible in complex humanitarian settings such as the Republic of South Sudan by using a longer-term health system strengthening approach. Second, the Republic of South Sudan is at risk of both domestic and cross border transmission of EVD and several other infectious disease outbreaks hence the need for an integrated and sustainable approach to outbreak preparedness in the country. Third, a phased and well-prioritized approach is required for EVD preparedness in complex humanitarian settings given the costs associated with preparedness and the difficulties in the accurate prediction of outbreaks in such settings. Fourth, EVD preparedness in complex humanitarian settings is a massive undertaking that requires effective and decentralized coordination. Conclusion Despite a very challenging context, the Republic of South Sudan made significant progress in its EVD preparedness drive demonstrating that it is possible to rapidly scale up preparedness efforts in complex humanitarian contexts if appropriate and context-specific approaches are used. Further research, systematic reviews and evaluation of the ongoing preparedness efforts are required to ensure comprehensive documentation and application of the lessons learnt for future EVD outbreak preparedness and response efforts.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been persistent with a huge demand for human health resources which is a vital component of its preparedness and response. Globally, the public health workforce through field epidemiology and laboratory training programme (FELTP) has been instrumental to global health security. We determined the status of FELTP in the region and its contributions to the COVID-19 pandemic response in the ECOWAS region. We conducted a desk review, shared a questionnaire among member states and organized a two-day online regional consultative meeting on field epidemiology training on 30 th -31 st March 2022 during which there were presentations, group discussions and deliberations on the status and contribution of FETP during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data collected were analyzed in themes. All countries in the ECOWAS region had established at least one tier of FELTP, 11 (73.3%) had established two tiers of FELTP and only 3 (20.0%) had established all three tiers of the program. Despite the pandemic, the cumulative number of graduates increased from 2996 to 4271 frontline, 41 to 380 intermediate, and 409 to 802 for advanced FELTP between 2019 and 2022. However, the progress has been disproportionate across countries. The key activities supported through FELTP graduates included pandemic response coordination, surveillance, data collection/management, laboratory support, case management, risk communication, infection prevention and control, COVID-19 vaccination, and research. Despite improvements in the FELTP in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region, there is a need for continuous stakeholder engagement for its implementation, resource mobilization for sustainability, and leveraging critical partnerships., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright: Virgil Kuassi Lokossou et al.)

Background: Following the West Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak (2013–2016), WHO developed a preparedness checklist for its member states. This checklist is currently being applied for the first time on a large and systematic scale to prepare for the cross border importation of the ongoing EVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo hence the need to document the lessons learnt from this experience. This is more pertinent considering the complex humanitarian context and weak health system under which some of the countries such as the Republic of South Sudan are implementing their EVD preparedness interventions. Main text: We identified four main lessons from the ongoing EVD preparedness efforts in the Republic South Sudan. First, EVD preparedness is possible in complex humanitarian settings such as the Republic of South Sudan by using a longer-term health system strengthening approach. Second, the Republic of South Sudan is at risk of both domestic and cross border transmission of EVD and several other infectious disease outbreaks hence the need for an integrated and sustainable approach to outbreak preparedness in the country. Third, a phased and well-prioritized approach is required for EVD preparedness in complex humanitarian settings given the costs associated with preparedness and the difficulties in the accurate prediction of outbreaks in such settings. Fourth, EVD preparedness in complex humanitarian settings is a massive undertaking that requires effective and decentralized coordination. Conclusion: Despite a very challenging context, the Republic of South Sudan made significant progress in its EVD preparedness drive demonstrating that it is possible to rapidly scale up preparedness efforts in complex humanitarian contexts if appropriate and context-specific approaches are used. Further research, systematic reviews and evaluation of the ongoing preparedness efforts are required to ensure comprehensive documentation and application of the lessons learnt for future EVD outbreak preparedness and response efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of mobile phone technology for reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in pharmacovigilance is relatively new.The objective of the study was to explore challenges and facilitators for the use of the Med Safety App for reporting ADRs in Ghana. A comparative evaluation of ADR reports received through the app and the standard paper-based form was also conducted., Methods: This was a cross-sectional study with a purposive sampling technique. The study population was persons who had downloaded the Med Safety App launched in Ghana 18 months before the study., Results: Of the 350 participants, 121 provided answers to the questionnaire sent as a Google form, representing a response rate of 34.6%.Ninety-five (78.5%) of the participants were healthcare professionals, and the remaining were patients. Seventy-five (64.7%) of the participants were using the app after initial installation because they thought it had helpful features. However, only 33 (27.3%) participants used the app to report ADRs, and of these, seven (21.2%) participants indicated that they would continue to use the app because it was easier than the other means of reporting ADRs. Most of the respondents, 109 (94%), indicated that they would recommend the app to someone else. There were some differences between the reports received through the app and between the paper-based Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences (CIOMS) 1 form and the app, which warrant further exploration., Conclusion: Most participants indicated that the app is a useful tool and easy to use, and they were satisfied with the features of the app. Given that only just under one-third of participants had used the app to report ADRs, more time and training may be required to fully evaluate the feasibility of the use of the app going forward. The findings will help improve introduction of the app in other countries., Competing Interests: The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2023.)

This paper is a comparative analysis of Baluchistan Child Protection Act, 2016 with child protection legislation enactment and implementation in three other jurisdictions of Pakistan, namely; Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Sindh. Each province has enacted a child protection specific law followed by establishment of a formal institutional arrangement for the implementation of the law. In Punjab, the Punjab Destitute and Neglected Children Act promulgated in 2004, and revised in 2007, and Child Protection and Welfare Bureau was established in the provincial Home department to implement this law. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), KP Child Protection and Welfare Act 2010 followed KP Child Protection and Welfare Rules 2013 while the implementation was assigned to a Child Protection and Welfare Commission within the provincial Social Welfare department. In Baluchistan, Child Welfare and Protection Act was enacted in 2016, a Child Protection Commission has been notified in 2018 within the provincial Social Welfare department which would be responsible for the implementation of the aforementioned law. The analysis reveals that despite a fairly long gap between enactment and implementation of previous three laws and the recent one there are legislative and institutional gaps which were not addressed in this new legislation, e.g, too much left to bylaws/secondary legislation which take years to follow, too narrow or too broad scope of the laws not matching with the capacity and mandate of the implementing bodies. Above all, each law acknowledges child protection to be a multidimensional and cross disciplinary endeavor, however, none chalks out clear collaboration mechanisms with other departments and organizations. It is concluded that those involved in child protection legislation and its implementation have a lot to learn from each other's experiences, especially from mistakes if we are to protect our children from violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The recurrence of similar problems caused by human errors in urbanization process is common throughout the world. However, the knowledge learnt from these problems should become lessons and important references for decision-making to avoid the recurrence of these problems, thus urban development can be sustainable. It is considered of imperative importance to incorporate the lessons experienced into the decision-making process in a way that can help foresee the potential problems and take proper measures for addressing the problems. There are few studies that have been conducted to investigate the similarity between the current scenario of urbanization practice and the previous context of lesson cases. The ignorance of this similarity presents a significant barrier for decision makers to learn from the existing lessons effectively thus to have references of how to make better decisions for future urbanization practices. This paper presents a Lessons Mining System (LMS) to assist in mining lessons experienced from previous practices. The establishment of LMS is based on Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) theory and the similarity matching principles. The system includes five components, namely, Lessons-case Representation, Lessons-case Store, Lessons-case Retrieval, Lessons-case Application, and Lessons-case Update. LMS can facilitate decision makers to understand what potential problems might occur from their current actions by referring to the lessons experienced previously in similar circumstances. This understanding can help decision makers take preventive measures against the potential problems. The use of LMS can send alarming messages to decision makers about what possible problematic consequence may occur, thus they can modify their actions before too late. A demonstration of Yangwu Town is presented to show the application of LMS, and the result shows that the lessons mined can provide valuable references for the government of Yangwu Town to improve their decision-making quality. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • A Lessons Mining System (LMS) is proposed. • LMS is a new method of mining lessons learnt from urbanization problems. • LMS can facilitate decision-makers to foresee potential problems. • LMS can facilitate decision-makers to improve decision-making quality. • A demonstration of Yangwu Town is used to show the application of LMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities constitute three quarters of global energy consumption and the built environment is responsible for significant use of final energy (62%) and greenhouse gas emissions (55%). Energy has now become a strategic issue for local authorities (LAs) and can offer savings when budget cuts have threatened the provision of core services. Progressive LAs are exploring energy savings and carbon reduction opportunities as part of the sustainable and smart city agenda. This paper explores the role of citizens in smart city development as “buildings don’t use energy: people do”. Citizens have the potential to shape transitions towards smart and sustainable futures. This paper contributes to the growing evidence base of citizen engagement in low carbon smart cities by presenting novel insights and practical lessons on how citizen engagement can help in smart city development through co-creation with a focus on energy in the built environment. A case study of Nottingham in the UK, a leading smart city, is analysed using Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation. Nottingham City Council (NCC) has pledged to keep “citizens at the heart” of its plans. This paper discusses learnings from two EU funded Horizon 2020 projects, REMOURBAN (REgeneration MOdel for accelerating the smart URBAN transformation) and eTEACHER, both of which aimed to empower citizens to reduce energy consumption and co-create smart solutions. Although these two projects are diverse in approaches and contexts, what unites them is a focus on citizen engagement, both face to face and digital. REMOURBAN has seen a “whole house” approach to retrofit in vulnerable communities to improve liveability through energy efficiency. User interaction and co-creation in eTEACHER has provided specifications for technical design of an energy saving App for buildings. eTEACHER findings reflect users’ energy needs, understanding of control interfaces, motivations for change and own creative ideas. Citizens were made co-creators in eTEACHER from the beginning through regular communication. In REMOURBAN, citizens had a role in the procurement and bidding process to influence retrofit project proposals. Findings can help LAs to engage demographically diverse citizens across a variety of buildings and communities for low carbon smart city development.

The work reported here was aimed at improving the practical efficiency of the model-based development and integration of electromechanical actuators. Models are proposed to serve as preliminary design, virtual prototyping, and validation. The first part focuses on the early phases of a project in order to facilitate the identification of modelling needs and constraints, and to build a top-level electromechanical actuator model for preliminary studies and sub-specification. Detailed modelling and simulation are then addressed with a mixed view on the control, power capability, and thermal balance. Models for the power chain are firstly considered by focusing on the key practical issues in modelling the electric motor, power electronics, and mechanical power transmission. The same logic is applied to the signal and control chain with practical considerations concerning the parameters of the controller, its digital implementation, the sensors, and their signal conditioning. Numerous orders of magnitude are provided to justify the choices made and to facilitate decision-making for and through simulation activities.

This study piloted an event-based surveillance system at the health centre (HC) level in Ethiopia. The system collects rumours in the community and registers them in rumour logbooks to record events of disease outbreaks and public health emergencies. Descriptive analysis was conducted on the events captured at the 59 study HCs in the Amhara Region in north-western Ethiopia between October 2013 and November 2014. A total of 126 rumours were registered at two thirds of the HCs during the study period. The average event reporting time was 3.8 days; response time of the HCs was 0.6 days, resulting in a total response time of 4.4 days. The most commonly reported rumours were measles-related (n = 90, 71%). These rumours followed a similar pattern of measles cases reported in the routine surveillance system. The largest proportion of rumours were reported by community members (n = 38, 36%) followed by health post workers (n = 36, 29%) who were normally informed by the community members about the rumours. This surveillance system was established along with an existing indicator-based surveillance system and was simple to implement. The implementation cost was minimal, requiring only printing and distribution of rumour logbooks to the HCs and brief orientations to focal persons. In countries where routine surveillance is still weak, an event-based surveillance system similar to this should be considered as a supplementary tool for disease monitoring.

During the past few decades, Thai women have learned how to extent their roles from a care taker of children and a household to natural resources and environmental protection and management in local and inter-regional communities. Due to the application of National Economic and Social Development Plans, rapid resource exploitation has brought in natural resource and environmental degradation all over the country threatening communal security. For this reason, there have been a number of emerging environmental leaders who want to correct directions of national development, especially Thai woman environmental leaders who are taking a successful role of environmental guardian in their communities. This research attempts to explore why they took leadership role in environment, how they work so successful as an environmental guardian, and what their next move is. During early 2013 till mid-2014, there are 28 Thai woman leaders who received the award of Thai Environmental Conservation Mother from the Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University between 2004 and 2012. They were in-depth interviewed and collected data were preceded by content analysis. Their lessons learnt show that most leaders saved their communities' environment and natural resources from the intervention of new development activities. Most of them had their parents as a good role model in environmental management who provide knowledge of morals and environmental ethics as a good basic of leadership while some shared their husband's responsibility in the same matter. Significantly, teamwork is their working style with the assistance of public participation to hold teamwork and collaboration of the community. Almost all leaders had systematic working with talents of patience, gentleness and sensitivity. The working network also broadens their new information and knowledge between practitioners. In the same time, more than half of the leaders can prepare their successors from the younger generation who can continue environmental conservation of the community, while the rest cannot do it. This situation pushes some leaders find alternative succession process.

The nuclear medicine (NM) growth has gone through both evolutionary and revolutionary changes over decades, mostly attributable to the dynamic and responsive trends in the global development and deployment of radiopharmaceuticals (RPh), as well as the advent of superior technology imaging systems (single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography [CT], positron emission tomography [PET]/CT, PET/magnetic resonance) with quantification capability. There are naturally many crucial lessons learnt along the way of NM-RPh progress achieved. It is felt imperative for the NM-RPh community to have consensus-based list(s) of indications for NM, classified on the value-level basis, at NM gross-level and specific medical specialty-wise, and the corresponding RPh needed, to ensure harmonious communication with the referral medical fraternity and health-care policymakers. For this purpose, a "NM value-matrix" is proposed in terms of "NM utility grading" (unique value, significant value, useful value, and others) versus "patient volume" (i.e., large, medium, low, and rare cases), covering the established and emerging indications for NM procedure, and the corresponding RPh product(s) in use. A consensus-based NM Value-Matrix will portray in an unequivocal manner, the merits of NM-RPh options (also limitations, if any) for serving needy patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there have been positive changes to the health research landscape, with increasing interest amongst community organisations and university investigators in establishing research partnerships and with more funding opportunities for community-engaged work. However, creating a community-university partnership requires new skills, new types of knowledge, and new ways of creating and maintaining relationships. On both sides of the research equation, people are looking for guidance. The discussion here uses our experience to offer concrete tips in plain language for strategies that can be used to build capacity for community-university partnerships for organisations and researchers in pre-partnership and early partnership stages. We comment on debates about epistemology and knowledge production in research and how anthropologists are well positioned to contribute to this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercial-scale demonstration of carbon capture and storage (CCS) is required to advance wide-spread implementation of CCS technology across a range of carbon-intensive industries, in order to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions to atmosphere. Capturing the learnings from leading demonstration projects is key for design optimisation, technology development and in turn, cost reduction. The importance of knowledge sharing and dissemination of learnings is of particular importance for CCS in order to maximise the cost-competitiveness of the technology across industry and energy markets and help reduce the overall costs to society for decarbonisation. Shell led the development of the Peterhead CCS (PCCS) project in the UK, from which the learnings from the completed front end engineering design (FEED) phase of the project have been identified and captured. In line with the agreement with the UK government, who sponsored part of the FEED phase, the learnings have been shared publically for the benefit of future follow on projects. The project completed FEED in 2015, the same year in which the project was cancelled due to UK Government withdrawal of funding for the UK CCS Commercialisation Competition. The Peterhead CCS project FEED phase comprised design work for CO 2 capture from the Peterhead gas fired power station using Shell Cansolv technology. The project design also encompassed pipeline transport of the CO 2 through an existing pipeline to the CO 2 subsurface storage site in the North Sea Goldeneye reservoir, utilising the existing offshore platform. This paper provides an overview of learnings from across both the technical and non-technical spectrums, including key technical CCS specific topics, as well as learnings from engagement with stakeholders, and development of regulatory frameworks. The learnings shared can be applied to the design of future CCS projects to reduce costs, optimise the technology, and realise public and regulatory support. The development of the FEED provided confidence that the construction and operation of the PCCS project was feasible and that the project was in a position to advance to the next stage of the development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The livestock sector contributes 4.11% in overall GDP, however, its full potential has not been utilized, necessitating need of innovations and the use of best practices for sustainable and profitable production. Farmers are a rich source of indigenous knowledge and they innovate, experiment and adapt continuously. Documentation of these success stories may serve as a lightening conductor for other farmers. The study was carried out with 35 progressive farmers from 10 agro-climatic regions of Karnataka. The study found that stall feeding for sheep, silage preparation and storage in bunkers, low cost dairy shed and locally made milking machine were innovations made by farmers. New technology adopted by the farmers included improved crossbreeds of sheep, emu farming, high tech dairy unit and fast growing breeds of pig. Farmers frequently used literature and KVK personnel as a source of information. Development of marketing linkages, direct marketing and contract farming were important aspects in post production operations. Farmers used some of the best practices like integrated farming system; clean and hygienic methods of milking, regular vaccinations, daily chart of feed, silage and bunker storage, rotation period, use of high jet water spray for washing of animal etc. Study concluded that qualities and traits like ability to select and integrate enterprise wisely; knowing and judging market demand correctly; developing market linkages; constant seeking of information and practical intelligence to use locally available resources were the key to success of dairy farmers. Dairy extension should play a pivotal role in imparting training to farmers about these aspects and spreading the success of these innovative farmers through literature in other parts of the country for its replication on large scale.

During the past 60 years, a number of infectious diseases have been targeted for eradication or elimination, with mixed results. While smallpox is the only one successfully eradicated so far, campaigns on yaws and malaria brought about a dramatic reduction in the incidence in the beginning of the campaign but ultimately could not achieve the desired goal. There is again a renewed interest in disease eradication. The World Health assembly in May 2010 passed a resolution calling for eradication of measles by 2015; the target of polio eradication still remains elusive. In view of these developments, it is appropriate time to revisit the concept of disease eradication and elimination, the achievements and failures of past eradication programmes and reasons thereof, and possibly apply these lessons while planning for the future activities. This paper based on the Dr. A.L.Saha Memorial Oration describes various infectious diseases that have been targeted for eradication or elimination since 1950s, the potential direct and indirect benefits from disease eradication, and the issues and opportunities for the future.

The livestock sector contributes 4.11% in overall GDP, however, its full potential has not been utilized, necessitating need of innovations and the use of best practices for sustainable and profitable production. Farmers are a rich source of indigenous knowledge and they innovate, experiment and adapt continuously. Documentation of these success stories may serve as a lightening conductor for other farmers. The study was carried out with 35 progressive farmers from 10 agro-climatic regions of Karnataka. The study found that stall feeding for sheep, silage preparation and storage in bunkers, low cost dairy shed and locally made milking machine were innovations made by farmers. New technology adopted by the farmers included improved crossbreeds of sheep, emu farming, high tech dairy unit and fast growing breeds of pig. Farmers frequently used literature and KVK personnel as a source of information. Development of marketing linkages, direct marketing and contract farming were important aspects in post production operations. Farmers used some of the best practices like integrated farming system; clean and hygienic methods of milking, regular vaccinations, daily chart of feed, silage and bunker storage, rotation period, use of high jet water spray for washing of animal etc. Study concluded that qualities and traits like ability to select and integrate enterprise wisely; knowing and judging market demand correctly; developing market linkages; constant seeking of information and practical intelligence to use locally available resources were the key to success of dairy farmers. Dairy extension should play a pivotal role in imparting training to farmers about these aspects and spreading the success of these innovative farmers through literature in other parts of the country for its replication on large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The year 2014 was an historic and challenging time for the Rosetta mission. On 20 January the spacecraft awoke from a 957-day hibernation; by August, it had arrived at Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko; and in November, the lander Philae was deployed to the comet's surface. These milestones were communicated by traditional outreach channels--on websites and via press events--as well as through the extensive use of social media. To provide an opportunity for the public to participate actively in these milestones, the European Space Agency and its partners ran three competitions. In this article we outline how these competitions provided a means for the public to engage with what was to become one of the most exciting space science missions in decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriate data generation methods are key to a successful research project to attain rich and relevant data. When doing research with children, the methods selected should be age appropriate and enable them to contribute their ideas in the research process. However, data generation with children is not "child's play"-it is a challenging task that requires careful design on the part of the researcher. We conducted a study in South Africa with children between the ages of 9 and 14 who were orphaned and rendered vulnerable by HIV and AIDS in order to explore if, and how, the use of participatory visual methods might enhance resilience. In this article, we provide a reflective account of the research process and discuss lessons learnt from our experiences of using drawings and collage as data generation methods when doing research with children. This article contributes to the literature on the use of participatory visual methods as data generation strategies with children highlighting some caveats and offering insight into how challenges could be circumvented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]