#Nigeria’s Center for Disease Control

[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #19

May 17-24 2024

President Biden wiped out the student loan debt of 160,000 more Americans. This debt cancellation of 7.7 billion dollars brings the total student loan debt relieved by the Biden Administration to $167 billion. The Administration has canceled student loan debt for 4.75 million Americans so far. The 160,000 borrowers forgiven this week owned an average of $35,000 each and are now debt free. The Administration announced plans last month to bring debt forgiveness to 30 million Americans with student loans coming this fall.

The Department of Justice announced it is suing Ticketmaster for being a monopoly. DoJ is suing Ticketmaster and its parent company Live Nation for monopolistic practices. Ticketmaster controls 70% of the live show ticket market leading to skyrocketing prices, hidden fees and last minute cancellation. The Justice Department is seeking to break up Live Nation and help bring competition back into the market. This is one of a number of monopoly law suits brought by the Biden administration against Apple in March and Amazon in September 2023.

The EPA announced $225 million in new funding to improve drinking and wastewater for tribal communities. The money will go to tribes in the mainland US as well as Alaska Native Villages. It'll help with testing for forever chemicals, and replacing of lead pipes as well as sustainability projects.

The EPA announced $300 million in grants to clean up former industrial sites. Known as "Brownfield" sites these former industrial sites are to be cleaned and redeveloped into community assets. The money will fund 200 projects across 178 communities. One such project will transform a former oil station in Philadelphia’s Kingsessing neighborhood, currently polluted with lead and other toxins into a waterfront bike trail.

The Department of Agriculture announced a historic expansion of its program to feed low income kids over the summer holidays. Since the 1960s the SUN Meals have served in person meals at schools and community centers during the summer holidays to low income children. This Year the Biden administration is rolling out SUN Bucks, a $120 per child grocery benefit. This benefit has been rejected by many Republican governors but in the states that will take part 21 million kids will benefit. Last year the Biden administration introduced SUN Meals To-Go, offering pick-up and delivery options expanding SUN's reach into rural communities. These expansions are part of the Biden administration's plan to end hunger and reduce diet-related disease by 2030.

Vice-President Harris builds on her work in Africa to announce a plan to give 80% of Africa internet access by 2030, up from just 40% today. This push builds off efforts Harris has spearheaded since her trip to Africa in 2023, including $7 billion in climate adaptation, resilience, and mitigation, and $1 billion to empower women. The public-private partnership between the African Development Bank Group and Mastercard plans to bring internet access to 3 million farmers in Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria, before expanding to Uganda, Ethiopia, and Ghana, and then the rest of the continent, bring internet to 100 million people and businesses over the next 10 years. This is together with the work of Partnership for Digital Access in Africa which is hoping to bring internet access to 80% of Africans by 2030, up from 40% now, and just 30% of women on the continent. The Vice-President also announced $1 billion for the Women in the Digital Economy Fund to assure women in Africa have meaningful access to the internet and its economic opportunities.

The Senate approved Seth Aframe to be a Judge on the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, it also approved Krissa Lanham, and Angela Martinez to district Judgeships in Arizona, as well as Dena Coggins to a district court seat in California. Bring the total number of judges appointed by President Biden to 201. Biden's Judges have been historically diverse. 64% of them are women and 62% of them are people of color. President Biden has appointed more black women to federal judgeships, more Hispanic judges and more Asian American judges and more LGBT judges than any other President, including Obama's full 8 years in office. President Biden has also focused on backgrounds appointing a record breaking number of former public defenders to judgeships, as well as labor and civil rights lawyers.

[mariacallous]

Russia’s Health Ministry has denied the accuracy of new data from the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) that lists Russia among the five countries in the world with the highest HIV infection rates.

According to UNAIDS and the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Russia accounted for 3.9 percent of the 1.5 million new HIV infections in the world in 2021. The only countries found to have higher rates were South Africa (14 percent of all new infections), Mozambique (6.5 percent), Nigeria (4.9 percent), and India (4.2 percent).

The Russian Health Ministry called the data “another propaganda provocation directed against our country.” The agency accused data collectors of “arbitrarily and tendentiously interpreting figures from various sources, accumulating information about the spread of the HIV/AIDS epidemic for different observation years.”

“Despite the obvious successes of Russian medicine, attempts to manipulate statistical data regarding the situation with AIDS infections in our country are becoming more and more frequent,” read the ministry’s press release.

[tallmantall]

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Suicidal ideation is terrifying and isolating: Survivor is 'living proof' recovery is possible

James Donaldson on Mental Health - Suicidal ideation is terrifying and isolating: Survivor is 'living proof' recovery is possible by Angela Roberts, The Baltimore Sun Credit: CC0 Public Domain Mary Lawal was 8 years old the first time she tried to take her own life. Time has blurred the details for Lawal, now a 22-year-old psychology student at Prince George's Community College. She doesn't remember the circumstances that led up to her attempt—Did she have a fight with her parents? An argument with her siblings?—or how, as a child, she even knew suicide was possible. She has only a vague memory of feeling lonely and unlovable. "I don't think I had a full understanding of what I was doing," she said. In the last two decades, overall suicide rates in the U.S. have risen by more than a third. They are also up for children ages 8 to 12—especially among young girls. Nearly 1 in 10 Maryland high school students reported having attempted suicide at least once in the year leading up to fall of 2022, according to results from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention survey. But there are reasons to be hopeful. For two years, in Maryland and across the country, the 988 suicide and crisis hotline has made it easier to ask for help. And earlier this month, U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin, a Maryland Democrat, introduced legislation that would create a federal grant program to support evidence-based models for stabilizing people with serious thoughts of suicide. Raskin lost his son to suicide in December 2020. While suicidal ideation—thinking about or formulating plans for suicide— can be terrifying and isolating, research shows it is also treatable through psychotherapy, medication, family and social support, and other treatments. Nine out of 10 people who attempt to take their own lives do not die during that acute period of crisis, and do not go on to die of suicide in the future. Research shows that most people who make one attempt do not try to end their own lives again. But Lawal did try again. After her first attempt as a child, she tried to take her own life four more times, most recently in 2021. Lawal survived. And today, after several years of intensive treatment, hospital stays, medication and therapy, she considers herself to be in recovery from suicidal ideation and self-harm. She's now an outspoken mental health advocate who shares her story with thousands of people on her Instagram, as well as with lawmakers, mental health workers and educators as a volunteer and youth adviser for the National Alliance on Mental Illness. She wants to bring people in crisis the message she so desperately needed when she was younger—that there is hope of getting better. "I'm living proof that recovery is possible," Lawal said. "Mental illness does not have to be a death sentence." Lawal remembers struggling with her mental health from the time she was little. She spent her childhood moving between Bowie and Nigeria, where her dad grew up and ran a business. She switched schools four or five times while growing up, sometimes in the middle of the school year. Ezekiel Adegbola met Lawal while they were both in high school in Nigeria. He remembers her as someone who quickly adapted to the "Nigerian way of life" and was very bright and funny. They quickly became friends, Adegbola said, and stayed close even after Mary returned to Maryland. But inside, Lawal felt like she didn't belong anywhere—like nobody truly understood her. At 13, she began to self-harm. She knew she needed help, but she didn't know how to put what she was feeling into words. Mental health wasn't something her teachers or classmates talked about at school. "I felt as though I was just in this cycle of doom," she said. When it comes to preventing suicide—and most other public health crises—it's key to implement upstream interventions, said Holly Wilcox, a professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. That means tackling the first seeds of the problem before it becomes a crisis, and teaching people about how to recognize those seeds and what to do when they spot them. Suicide may seem like too big and scary of a topic to broach with children, but there are age-appropriate—and effective—ways of doing so, Wilcox said. She and other researchers are currently testing out programs in Maryland schools, where kids are given tools for approaching sensitive situations and conversations with their friends, and taught when to involve a responsible adult. "One thing we've been noticing is that students, even as young as middle school, really like having the space and time to talk about mental health," said Wilcox, who has spent her career advancing public health approaches to suicide prevention. "By allowing them to talk about it, our hope is that it addresses mental health stigma," Wilcox said. "They can learn practical skills and learn about different mental health conditions. That should help them when they or someone else in their lives are facing any type of mental health problem or crisis; they'll have something to draw from to be able to work toward a solution." #James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy Link for 40 Habits Signupbit.ly/40HabitsofMentalHealth If you'd like to follow and receive my daily blog in to your inbox, just click on it with Follow It. Here's the link https://follow.it/james-donaldson-s-standing-above-the-crowd-s-blog-a-view-from-above-on-things-that-make-the-world-go-round?action=followPub Without a similar program in her school, Lawal turned to YouTube and social media to learn about mental health. Hearing others share experiences similar to her own was helpful, but she still wasn't sure how to get better. While living in Nigeria, she considered walking to a nearby pharmacy to ask for help. "I wanted to ask the pharmacist," she recalled, "Do you guys have something for depression or suicidal ideation? Something to help?" When she got up the nerve to tell her parents how much she was hurting, they didn't understand. They were a family of faith—Why couldn't she trust that God would take care of her? Lawal's father, Wasiu Lawal, said he initially attributed his daughter's mental health struggles to her youth. But things got worse, not better, as she got older, he said. Eventually, even though he didn't understand therapy—mental health was never something people talked about when he was growing up in Nigeria—he knew his daughter needed serious intervention. "I was willing to do anything that would help her," Lawal said. Toward the end of Lawal's high school years, her mental health got even worse. In her lowest moments, she would scream and cry to her mother, asking her why she had brought her into the world. But when Lawal was 19, after years of suicide attempts and terrifying intrusive thoughts regularly sending her to the hospital, a doctor suggested a partial hospitalization program to her family. For several weeks, Lawal spent hours each day participating in group and individual therapy. A few months later, she did the program again. This time, even though it was virtual, Lawal felt more prepared to be open with others in the program—to share her experiences and add her input during group therapy. After several years of treatment and learning about mental health, it felt like everything clicked, Lawal said. She left the program with a deeper understanding of herself that became even deeper as she explored her relationship with her faith. She came to believe that everything she had gone through had a purpose—to help her understand others who were struggling and help them feel less alone. "God, he had me then. He has me now," she said. "In my darkest moments, in my darkest times, where I felt lonely, I felt like I had no one, he was still there with me and the reason why I'm still alive today." Rolly Orebote, a preacher and spiritual mentor based in London, remembers meeting Lawal through Instagram about four years ago. She could tell how much the young girl was struggling, she said, but over the past few years, she has been amazed at the person she has become. "When I first met Sister Mary, she was a totally different person. Someone that was not understood, someone that didn't have confidence in herself," Orebote said. "I can't really say how impressed and how proud of her that I am, because she's grown so much in such a short space of time." Now, Lawal is well-practiced at sharing her story. In 2023, she addressed lawmakers in the Maryland General Assembly to ask them to fully fund the 988 hotline. She's also helped facilitate support groups for NAMI and regularly volunteers to speak with journalists about mental health issues. As a psychology student at Prince George's Community College, she's not quite sure yet whether she wants to continue her studies and become a therapist or stay in advocacy. Whatever Lawal decides to do, her father said, she is going to help many people. She's taught him a lot about mental health, he said. Now, when he meets a parent whose child is struggling with their mental health, he knows how to talk to them about it—and helps them figure out how to support their child. Read the full article

[tushar38]

Novel Antibody Therapy Market: Key Players, Challenges, and Opportunities

Introduction to Novel Antibody Therapy Market

 The Novel Antibody Therapy Market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by advancements in biotechnology and increased demand for targeted treatments across a wide range of diseases. Novel antibody therapies, such as monoclonal and bispecific antibodies, offer precision in targeting specific cells, making them highly effective in treating cancers, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. With the rise of immunotherapy, the market is set to expand, fueled by innovations in antibody design, growing patient awareness, and favorable regulatory environments. The market is projected to experience robust growth through 2030.

The Novel Antibody Therapy Market is Valued USD 2.4 billion by 2024 and projected to reach USD 12.08 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 19.7% During the Forecast period of 2024-2032.It includes monoclonal, polyclonal, and bispecific antibodies, which are utilized for precise disease targeting in conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, and viral infections. The global demand is primarily driven by the rise in chronic diseases and the push for innovative biologics that can provide targeted and more efficient therapies. Major players in the market include pharmaceutical giants and biotechnology startups focused on next-gen therapeutics. By 2030, the market is expected to see substantial growth, with key regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific leading in research and commercialization.

Access Full Report :https://www.marketdigits.com/checkout/3606?lic=s

Major Classifications are as follows:

By Type

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs)

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)

Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs)

Others

By Therapeutic Area

Oncology

Autoimmune diseases

Infectious diseases

Others

By End-User

Hospitals

Specialty centers

Others

Key Region/Countries are Classified as Follows:

◘ North America (United States, Canada,) ◘ Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina,) ◘ Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia) ◘ Europe (UK,Germany,France,Italy,Spain,Russia,) ◘ The Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South

Key Players of Novel Antibody Therapy Market

Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Molecular Templates, Philogen, Roche, Seagen, Sesen bio, Telix Pharmaceuticals, Y-mAbs Therapeutics, AstraZeneca Plc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Eli Lilly and Company and Others

Market Drivers in the Novel Antibody Therapy Market

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: Rising cases of cancers, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases fuel the demand for targeted, antibody-based treatments.

Technological Advancements in Antibody Engineering: Innovations such as bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have expanded the therapeutic potential of antibody therapies.

Growth in Immuno-Oncology: The success of immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T therapies has spurred further interest and investment in antibody-based treatments.

Market Challenges in the Novel Antibody Therapy Market

High Development Costs: The complex nature of antibody therapies requires significant R&D investment, making it a costly endeavor for companies.

Manufacturing Complexities: Antibody therapies often face challenges in large-scale production due to the need for highly specialized processes and quality control.

Stringent Regulatory Pathways: Despite favorable conditions, navigating regulatory approvals for novel therapies remains a hurdle, as agencies demand robust clinical data to ensure efficacy and safety.

Market Opportunities of Novel Antibody Therapy Market

Emerging Markets: Expanding healthcare infrastructure and rising incidences of chronic diseases in developing regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America present significant growth opportunities.

Combination Therapies: The use of antibody therapies in combination with other treatments (e.g., chemotherapies, radiotherapies) offers enhanced therapeutic benefits and opens up new market avenues.

Personalized Medicine: Advances in genomics and biomarker research are paving the way for more personalized and precise antibody treatments, which could revolutionize patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The Novel Antibody Therapy Market is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements, an increasing focus on personalized medicine, and rising demand for targeted therapies. While the market faces challenges such as high development costs and regulatory hurdles, there are numerous opportunities for expansion, particularly in emerging markets and combination therapies. With continued innovation and strategic partnerships, the future of antibody-based treatments looks promising, offering hope for improved patient outcomes across a range of chronic and complex diseases.

[mynewshq]

Mpox cases in Nigeria reach 48 in at least 20 states

The number of monkeypox (mpox) cases in Nigeria has reached 48, with the virus now detected in Abuja and 20 other states, according to the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Despite the rising cases, no deaths have been reported. On August 27, Nigeria received 10,000 vaccine doses from the United States to aid in controlling the outbreak. To further prevent the virus's spread, a health declaration form for international travelers has been introduced. The African Union has declared a public health emergency due to the rapid spread of the virus across the continent. Mpox is transmitted through contact with infected rodents, individuals, or contaminated objects. Symptoms typically develop 5 to 21 days after exposure, including fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, and skin lesions. While there is no specific treatment, antiviral drugs can help manage the disease. Most cases are mild, with recovery expected within a few weeks. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is related to smallpox but usually causes milder symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches. In severe cases, painful sores and blisters can develop on the face, chest, hands, and genitals. The virus is primarily spread through close skin-to-skin contact. The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that around 230,000 vaccine doses could soon be sent to Congo and other affected areas. The WHO is also working on educational campaigns to raise awareness about preventing the spread of mpox in outbreak regions. Maria Van Kerkhove, head of WHO's epidemic and pandemic diseases department, stated that the agency is working to expedite vaccine access for affected countries, given the limited supply. Scientists have highlighted the need for a better understanding of mpox transmission in Africa to optimize vaccine use. Earlier this week, the head of Africa's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that the continent expects to receive about 380,000 mpox vaccine doses promised by donors, including the U.S. and the European Union. However, this is less than 15% of the doses required to end the mpox outbreaks in Congo, according to health authorities. Read the full article

[ellabdiagnosticcenter]

Biopsies in Nigeria: Challenges, Innovations, and Future Prospects in Cancer

Biopsies are a critical component in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions, particularly cancer. In Nigeria, the importance of biopsies cannot be overstated given the increasing incidence of cancer and other diseases requiring histological examination. Despite the significant strides made in healthcare, Nigeria still faces numerous challenges in the widespread implementation and accessibility of biopsy procedures. However, recent innovations and ongoing efforts offer a glimmer of hope for improved diagnostic capabilities and better patient outcomes.

Current State of Biopsies in Nigeria

Biopsies in Nigeria are conducted in both public and private healthcare facilities, with varying levels of sophistication and accessibility. Major urban centers like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt have more advanced medical facilities capable of performing a wide range of biopsy procedures, including needle biopsies, excisional biopsies, and endoscopic biopsies. These procedures are essential for diagnosing cancers such as breast, prostate, and cervical cancer, which are prevalent in the country.

However, in rural areas, access to biopsy services is significantly limited. The lack of well-equipped laboratories, trained personnel, and proper infrastructure poses substantial barriers. Patients often have to travel long distances to urban centers for these procedures, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, the high cost of biopsies in private hospitals is a deterrent for many Nigerians, especially those without health insurance.

Challenges in the Nigerian Healthcare System

Several factors contribute to the challenges faced in the implementation of biopsy services in Nigeria. One major issue is the shortage of pathologists and specialized healthcare professionals. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria has one of the lowest doctor-to-patient ratios globally, and the situation is even more dire when it comes to specialized fields like pathology.

Inadequate funding and poor healthcare infrastructure further exacerbate the problem. Many public hospitals struggle with outdated equipment and lack of essential supplies, making it difficult to perform biopsies accurately and efficiently. Additionally, the lack of awareness and education about the importance of early diagnosis and regular screenings means that many patients present with advanced-stage cancers, where the prognosis is poorer.

Innovations and Future Prospects

Despite these challenges, there are ongoing efforts to improve the situation. Government initiatives, such as the National Cancer Control Plan, aim to enhance cancer diagnosis and treatment capabilities. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, training programs for healthcare professionals, and public awareness campaigns are critical components of these efforts.

Technological advancements are also playing a crucial role. Mobile health units equipped with Laboratory tests in Nigeria, telemedicine, and partnerships with international organizations are helping to bridge the gap between rural and urban healthcare services. Furthermore, initiatives like the establishment of regional cancer centers are aimed at decentralizing cancer care and making it more accessible to a larger portion of the population.

Conclusion

Biopsies are indispensable for accurate cancer diagnosis and treatment, and while Nigeria faces significant challenges in providing these services, ongoing innovations and efforts offer hope for the future. Improving healthcare infrastructure, increasing funding, and enhancing training and awareness are essential steps towards ensuring that all Nigerians have access to timely and accurate Diagnostics services in Nigeria. With continued focus and investment, the landscape of biopsies in Nigeria can see substantial improvement, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for the population.

[thoughtlessarse]

With a severe version of mpox breaking out in the Democratic Republic of Congo, officials with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are warning that it could spread and that people at risk should be vaccinated as soon as possible. High-risk populations include men who have sex with men, although anyone can contract the disease, which is largely spread by skin-to-skin contact — sexual relations, for instance, but also in crowds at outdoor festivals. Thousands of gay and bisexual men developed mpox in a 2022 outbreak. People with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV, are at high risk for serious cases and death. “There are two main types of mpox: Clade I, the type that is dominant in Congo, and Clade II, a version of which caused the 2022 global outbreak,” The New York Times reports. Clade I is deadlier than Clade II, the Times notes, explaining that “a clade is a genetically and clinically distinct group of viruses.” No Clade I cases have been documented outside of Congo yet, but a global spread is possible, as the 2022 outbreak that affected Europe and North America originated in Nigeria. “This is a very important example of how an infection anywhere is potentially an infection everywhere, and why we need to continue to improve disease surveillance globally,” Anne Rimoin, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, told the Times.

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[lboogie1906]

Ambassador Johnnie Carson (born April 7, 1943, in Chicago) is a diplomat who has served as Ambassador to several African nations. In 2009 he was nominated to become Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs by President Barack Obama. He resigned in 2013. He is a Senior Advisor at Albright Stonebridge Group and the US Institute of Peace.

He graduated from Drake University with a BA in History and Political Science and obtained an MA in International Relations from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He was a Peace Corps volunteer in Tanzania.

He joined the US National Intelligence Council as a National Intelligence Officer for Africa. He served as the Senior VP of the National Defense University. His Foreign Service career includes ambassadorships to Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Uganda, and as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of African Affairs.

He had assignments in Portugal, Botswana, Mozambique, and Nigeria. He has served as a desk officer in the Africa section at the State’s Bureau of Intelligence and Research; Staff Officer for the Secretary of State, and Staff Director for the Africa Subcommittee of the House of Representatives.

He is the recipient of several Superior Honor Awards from the Department of State and a Meritorious Service Award. The Centers for Disease Control presented him with its highest award, the “Champion of Prevention Award”, for his leadership in directing the US Government’s HIV/AIDS prevention efforts in Kenya. He was given accolades from the ambassadors of the ECOWAS countries, who together praised him for extraordinary efforts to bind the US together with their countries.

He serves on the Board of Directors of the National Democratic Institute.

He urged increased engagement with Nigeria for both the US and European partners, to assist in maintaining stability in the light of the upcoming 2015 Nigerian general election, security problems in Northeastern Nigeria, and economic concerns regarding rising oil prices. He is married and has three children. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[hardynwa]

NSSF makes case for use of technology, AI, to drive vaccine uptake in Africa

Speakers at the Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF) fire chat on vaccine uptake have canvased for the use of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive vaccine uptake in Africa. The speakers drawn from different walks of life spoke on Thursday during the NSSF fire chat webinar with the theme: "Innovating for Healthcare in Africa: Using AI and Tech to Drive Vaccine Uptake. The General Manager/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) NSSF, Dr. Fejiro Chinye- Nwoko, in her remarks, said that as the world advances in an Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution, the advantages of these innovations must reach every part of the globe, especially Africa. Chinye- Nwoko said that vaccination is one of the most impactful and cost-efficient public health interventions known to prevent mortality and reduce morbidity. According to her, despite increased global vaccination coverage, Africa is still lagging. "This is due in part to the low vaccine production rate on the continent itself," Chinye-Nwoko said. The CEO said that there was an urgent need for African countries to develop strategies that effectively address these limitations in vaccination uptake and coverage to achieve a reduction of vaccine preventable diseases. She noted that AI could help in the conversation on vaccine production in the African continent. Also speaking, Cyril Seck, Strategy Advisor, Africa Center for Disease Control (CDC), said that digitising healthcare in Africa would require focus on the patients. Seck said that one of the roles of the Africa CDC was to strengthen member states workforce development and innovation. According to him, it is important to encourage the emergence of the adoption of digital innovations aimed at improving health systems and outcomes. He explained that to digitise key elements of health systems would require the enablement of a more interconnected, data driven approach. He noted that the digitisation of the Primary Health Care centers was critical, adding that the diversity of apps and programmes need to be more coordinated. He said that there was the need to align the many stakeholders available in the healthcare space in Africa to leapfrog digital innovations to meet the healthcare needs of Africa. In his intervention, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, noted that aggressive work has been done by the state in fighting vaccine hesitancy. Filani said that vaccine hesitancy is made worse by what he described as the dark side of social media. He said that to tackle misinformation of vaccine uptake in the state, the ministry introduced media monitoring outreach to scout for misleading information on vaccine in Ekiti. He added that religious and traditional leaders were admonished to speak to their subjects on the importance of vaccine. He advised healthcare workers not to refuse anyone vaccine on the guise that they came on a date that is not meant for vaccination. He said that there was the need to improve the attitude of healthcare workers in the state that were in charge of delivering vaccines. Also speaking, Dr Lawal Bakare, CEO, Epid Alert, said that Epid Alert is big in using easy to adapt technologies, adding that sometimes they deploy offline systems, guided by GPS. In her contributions, Ana Fernandes del Rio, Principal Data Scientist, Causal Foundry, said that her organisation builds data centric digital solutions. Rio said that digital tools need to be used for the end users, adding that the digital tools have regular information on what is going on. Also Dr. Chioma Nwakanma Akanno, Founder, Medically Speaking Services/ Executive Director, SMILE WITH ME Foundation, said that one of the beautiful things in data is that it helps you have tailored made strategies that also applies to health outcomes. Akanno said that every other vaccinations that we have had and still having in Nigeria is not been made easy by the information and dissemination we have been seeing. According to her, people have general distrusts for the system. She said that the speed of social media can be a blessing and a curse , adding that it's impact could be felt not just in vaccines, but in every other aspects of health. With regards to health messaging, Akanno said that all hands must be on deck with the proper constitution of stakeholders engagement. "We need to empower every stakeholder, collaborate with key influencers. "If we must combat vaccine hesitancy ànd increase vaccine uptake; we need to be very strategic in our messaging. "And you cannot be strategic if you have no data, no messaging. " Our messaging needs to be very tailored: strategic content dissemination is very key as regards vaccination. " First go to the people, find out and feel their pulses, and that is through research, and data is going to be very important," Akanno said. The webinar was well attended by numerous persons who agreed that technology and AI, indeed can be of imense help in upscalling vaccine uptake in the country. Read the full article

[lalsingh228-blog]

Airway Clearance Systems Market Set For More Growth

Advance Market Analytics published a new research publication on "Airway Clearance Systems Market Insights, to 2028" with 232 pages and enriched with self-explained Tables and charts in presentable format. In the Study you will find new evolving Trends, Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities generated by targeting market associated stakeholders. The growth of the Airway Clearance Systems market was mainly driven by the increasing R&D spending across the world.

Get Free Exclusive PDF Sample Copy of This Research @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/43703-global-airway-clearance-systems-market Some of the key players profiled in the study are: Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. (United States), Thayer Medical (United States), Monaghan Medical Corporation, Inc. (United States), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Electromed Inc., Ltd. (United States), PARI GmbH (Germany), International Biophysics Corporation (United States), Dymedso Inc. (Canada), General Physiotherapy Inc. (United States), Allergan plc (Ireland), Vortran Medical Technology, Inc. (United States). Scope of the Report of Airway Clearance Systems There are a number of airway clearance systems that can be used to remove excess sputum. They take various forms, such as a mouthpiece, mask, vest, etc., and use air pressure, vibration, or high-frequency sound waves to get the job done. Airway release systems provide long-term benefits to patients with excessive mucus build-up in the lungs by allowing lung expansion and facilitating lung mucus clearance. These devices are indicated for lung expansion therapy, mobilization of pulmonary secretions, and the prevention and treatment of pulmonary atelectasis. Airway Clearance Techniques (ACTs) are treatments that help people with conditions like cystic fibrosis achieve healthier lifestyles. ACTs are physical or mechanical means of facilitating the elimination of tracheobronchial mucus through external or internal control of airflow and removal of mucus through coughing. These products loosen thick, sticky pulmonary mucus so that coughing can clear it. Removing the mucus from the airways helps reduce lung infections and improve lung function. These airway clearance devices find their use in the treatment of various diseases including emphysema, cystic fibrosis, neuromuscular, bronchiectasis, and others. The titled segments and sub-section of the market are illuminated below: by Type (Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP), Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP), High Frequency ChestWall Compression, Intrapulmonary Percussive Ventilation, Mechanical Cough Assist), Application (Hospitals & Clinics, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Homecare Settings), Sales Channel (Online, Offline), End-Use (Cystic Fibrosis, Chronic Bronchitis, Bronchiectasis, Immotile Cilia Syndrome, Neuromuscular, Others) Market Trends: The Rise in Per Capita Income Is Influencing Individuals to Spend More on Health Care

Increasing Product Upgrades by Prominent Medical Device Companies

Rising Prevalence Coupled With Awareness Regarding Early Diagnosis

Increasing Air Pollution and Expo

Opportunities: Growth in the Use of Automation in the Healthcare Industry

Continuous Technological Innovations Coupled With a Rising Market Penetration of Key Players

Market Drivers: The Burgeoning Ageing Population

Rising Adoption of Airway Clearance Systems for the Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Cystic Fibrosis, and Chronic Bronchitis

Favorable Insurance Coverage Offered By the Governments and Private Companies

Rising Patient Awareness for Creating a Common Platform for COPD Patients Region Included are: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Oceania, South America, Middle East & Africa Country Level Break-Up: United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, South Africa, Nigeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Germany, United Kingdom (UK), the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, Turkey, Russia, France, Poland, Israel, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, India, Australia and New Zealand etc. Have Any Questions Regarding Global Airway Clearance Systems Market Report, Ask Our Experts@ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/43703-global-airway-clearance-systems-market Strategic Points Covered in Table of Content of Global Airway Clearance Systems Market:

Chapter 1: Introduction, market driving force product Objective of Study and Research Scope the Airway Clearance Systems market

Chapter 2: Exclusive Summary – the basic information of the Airway Clearance Systems Market.

Chapter 3: Displayingthe Market Dynamics- Drivers, Trends and Challenges & Opportunities of the Airway Clearance Systems

Chapter 4: Presenting the Airway Clearance Systems Market Factor Analysis, Porters Five Forces, Supply/Value Chain, PESTEL analysis, Market Entropy, Patent/Trademark Analysis.

Chapter 5: Displaying the by Type, End User and Region/Country 2015-2020

Chapter 6: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the Airway Clearance Systems market which consists of its Competitive Landscape, Peer Group Analysis, BCG Matrix & Company Profile

Chapter 7: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by Manufacturers/Company with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions (2023-2028)

Chapter 8 & 9: Displaying the Appendix, Methodology and Data Source finally, Airway Clearance Systems Market is a valuable source of guidance for individuals and companies. Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/43703-global-airway-clearance-systems-market Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Middle East, Africa, Europe or LATAM, Southeast Asia. Contact US : Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager) AMA Research & Media LLP Unit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJ New Jersey USA – 08837 Phone: +1 201 565 3262, +44 161 818 8166 sales@advancemarketanalytics.com

[indiamedicaltourism]

Hip Replacement Surgery in India

Hip replacement surgery, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at replacing a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial one. Hi replacement procedure has revolutionized the field of orthopedic medicine, providing relief to people suffering from chronic hip pain and mobility issues. India is a leading destination for hip replacement surgeries, offering world-class healthcare infrastructure, skilled orthopedic surgeons, and cost-effective treatment.

India has robust healthcare system with state-of-the-art infrastructure and modern surgical facilities. The country is home to numerous renowned hospitals and specialized orthopedic centers that cater to both domestic and international patients. These facilities are equipped with advanced technology, including computer-assisted navigation systems and robotic surgical techniques, ensuring precise and successful hip replacement surgeries.

Indian orthopedic surgeons are globally recognized for their expertise and proficiency in performing complex hip replacement surgeries. Many hip replacement surgeons have received training and gained experience in reputed medical institutions around the world. Their knowledge, skill, and dedication contribute to excellent surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

India has several best hospitals and medical institutions that have received accreditation from international bodies like the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH). These accreditations ensure that the hospitals maintain high standards of healthcare delivery, patient safety, and infection control protocols. Patients can have confidence in the quality of care they receive during their hip replacement surgery  in India.

In many countries, patients often face long waiting times for hip replacement surgery due to high demand and limited resources in that country. Waiting times are comparatively shorter in India, allowing patients to get timely treatment and relief from their hip pain as soon as possible. This is mainly beneficial for people experiencing severe pain and mobility issues that significantly impact their daily lives.

 Al Afiya Medi Tour is a leading medical tourism company in India. We offer medical tourism services such as finding the right doctor, the right hospital, and cost estimation for medical treatment in India for foreign patients. Some of the main countries are Bangladesh, South Africa, Egypt, Uganda, Zambia, Sudan, Dubai, Namibia, Iraq, Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and so on. We provide free medical assistance for TURP surgery cost, lung cancer treatment, breast cancer treatment, stomach cancer treatment, ovarian cancer treatment, liver transplant cost, blood cancer treatment, the best hospital for heart valve replacement, liver cancer treatment, bone marrow transplant cost,spine tumor surgery,knee replacement surgery, shoulder replacement surgery, hip replacement surgery, best bone marrow hospital, etc.  If you are searching for free medical and healthcare consulting to find the best hospitals and top doctors and surgeons in India for any treatment then contact us- Alafiyameditour.com.

Source:https://bestmedicaltourismcompanyinindia.blogspot.com/2023/07/hip-replacement-surgery-in-india.html

[tushar38]

Novel Antibody Therapy Market Analysis: Key Players and Competitive Landscape

Introduction to Novel Antibody Therapy Market

 The Novel Antibody Therapy Market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by advancements in biotechnology and increased demand for targeted treatments across a wide range of diseases. Novel antibody therapies, such as monoclonal and bispecific antibodies, offer precision in targeting specific cells, making them highly effective in treating cancers, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. With the rise of immunotherapy, the market is set to expand, fueled by innovations in antibody design, growing patient awareness, and favorable regulatory environments. The market is projected to experience robust growth through 2030.

The Novel Antibody Therapy Market is Valued USD 2.4 billion by 2024 and projected to reach USD 12.08 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 19.7% During the Forecast period of 2024-2032.It includes monoclonal, polyclonal, and bispecific antibodies, which are utilized for precise disease targeting in conditions like cancer, autoimmune diseases, and viral infections. The global demand is primarily driven by the rise in chronic diseases and the push for innovative biologics that can provide targeted and more efficient therapies. Major players in the market include pharmaceutical giants and biotechnology startups focused on next-gen therapeutics. By 2030, the market is expected to see substantial growth, with key regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific leading in research and commercialization.

Access Full Report :https://www.marketdigits.com/checkout/3606?lic=s

Major Classifications are as follows:

By Type

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs)

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs)

Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs)

Others

By Therapeutic Area

Oncology

Autoimmune diseases

Infectious diseases

Others

By End-User

Hospitals

Specialty centers

Others

Key Region/Countries are Classified as Follows:

◘ North America (United States, Canada,) ◘ Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina,) ◘ Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia) ◘ Europe (UK,Germany,France,Italy,Spain,Russia,) ◘ The Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South

Key Players of Novel Antibody Therapy Market

Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Molecular Templates, Philogen, Roche, Seagen, Sesen bio, Telix Pharmaceuticals, Y-mAbs Therapeutics, AstraZeneca Plc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Eli Lilly and Company and Others

Market Drivers in the Novel Antibody Therapy Market

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: Rising cases of cancers, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases fuel the demand for targeted, antibody-based treatments.

Technological Advancements in Antibody Engineering: Innovations such as bispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have expanded the therapeutic potential of antibody therapies.

Growth in Immuno-Oncology: The success of immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T therapies has spurred further interest and investment in antibody-based treatments.

Market Challenges in the Novel Antibody Therapy Market

High Development Costs: The complex nature of antibody therapies requires significant R&D investment, making it a costly endeavor for companies.

Manufacturing Complexities: Antibody therapies often face challenges in large-scale production due to the need for highly specialized processes and quality control.

Stringent Regulatory Pathways: Despite favorable conditions, navigating regulatory approvals for novel therapies remains a hurdle, as agencies demand robust clinical data to ensure efficacy and safety.

Market Opportunities of Novel Antibody Therapy Market

Emerging Markets: Expanding healthcare infrastructure and rising incidences of chronic diseases in developing regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America present significant growth opportunities.

Combination Therapies: The use of antibody therapies in combination with other treatments (e.g., chemotherapies, radiotherapies) offers enhanced therapeutic benefits and opens up new market avenues.

Personalized Medicine: Advances in genomics and biomarker research are paving the way for more personalized and precise antibody treatments, which could revolutionize patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The Novel Antibody Therapy Market is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements, an increasing focus on personalized medicine, and rising demand for targeted therapies. While the market faces challenges such as high development costs and regulatory hurdles, there are numerous opportunities for expansion, particularly in emerging markets and combination therapies. With continued innovation and strategic partnerships, the future of antibody-based treatments looks promising, offering hope for improved patient outcomes across a range of chronic and complex diseases.

[worldofwardcraft]

Doctor Do Little.

December 21, 2023

All is not well in the fascist paradise of Florida. This is true in general, but most especially in the health arena. Take COVID, for instance. The Sunshine State remains one of the nation's leaders in deaths from that disease, despite ongoing attempts to hide state health statistics from the public.

Which brings us to the man responsible for that: Governor Ron DeSantis's handpicked Surgeon General, Joseph Ladapo (pictured above telling reporters he don't need no stinking science). An immigrant from Nigeria and a graduate of Harvard Medical School (which should be mortified), Ladapo was appointed to the position in September 2021 and was finally confirmed the following February after senate Democrats walked out in disgust when he declined to answer their questions. Recounted CNN, "Five times state Sen. Lauren Book asked Ladapo if vaccines worked against the coronavirus. Ladapo refused to say."

And no wonder. He has repeatedly insisted the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are dangerous for healthy young men and children and has warned people under the age of 65 against getting booster shots. Florida's top medical officer also told attendees at a press conference that masks "are not saving lives" and denounced doctors and health organizations like the CDC and AMA that still advocate for masking as a way to stop the spread of COVID.

Ladapo, we repeat, is a trained physician. But The Tampa Bay Times has its doubts.

Ladapo hailed ivermectin as a COVID-19 treatment. Its misuse led to a spike in calls to Florida poison control centers. He's also argued for hydroxychloroquine like DeSantis and former President Trump. Others in the medical community aren't as enthusiastic about that treatment.

And it gets worse. Thanks to his pal DeSantis, Ladapo was fast-tracked for a tenured professorship at the University of Florida, where he doesn't teach and does no research or any other kind of work. However, he does receive a $262,000 salary to go along with his $250,000 Surgeon General's pay. One professor at UF's College of Medicine declared,

We keep getting all of these emails about doing more to help the [university budget's] $42 million shortfall, and then you have this guy who’s not doing anything.

Says state representative Anna Eskamani, “I really look at Dr. Ladapo as more being a political figure than a Surgeon General at this point.” Boca Raton's state senator Tina Polsky echoes those sentiments: “This guy is a charlatan, he’s not looking out for anyone’s health.” But, then, taking money for doing nothing useful seems to be Dr. Ladapo's medical specialty.

[crimechannels]

By ��� Olalekan Fagbade Stakeholders, Media meet on Diphtheria Outbreak, spread and Response in Nigeria The Coordinating Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), convened a Media Orientation Meeting on Diphtheria Outbreak Response in the country. The one-day workshop, supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and held on Friday in Abuja, drew journalists and communication personnel from across the country. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was aimed at improving the media’s knowledge of Diphtheria, helping them understand their roles and responsibilities, and identifying key areas to support the ongoing Outbreak Response in the country. In his opening remarks, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, of the NPHCDA, commended and appreciated the efforts of both National and State Media Stations in promoting health programmes, especially the ongoing Diphtheria Outbreak Response in their respective states. Shuaib, who was represented by the Acting Director of Advocacy and Communication at the Agency, Mrs. Aisha Tukur, emphasized that the Federal Government and Development Partners recognized the media’s vital role in nation-building. He underscored government’s reliance on the media to create awareness and sensitize Nigerians on Diphtheria and other Primary Health Care services in the country. Shuaib also commended NCDC and Development Partners for co-facilitating the Media Orientation Meeting with NPHCDA and expressed the hope that the partnership would continue beyond the Diphtheria Outbreak Response. In her goodwill message, Margaret Soyemi, Head of Social and Behavioral Change Communication at UNICEF, who spoke on behalf of partners, praised the efforts of NPHCDA and NCDC for facilitating the workshop. Soyemi thanked the media stakeholders for their continuous support and commitment to creating awareness and sensitizing the public on health programmes, especially Diphtheria, at national and subnational levels. NAN recalled that participants from NPHCDA, NCDC, FMoH, Federal Ministry of Information (FMol), National Orientation Agency (NOA), and NAN attended the meeting. Additionally, representatives from national and state media (broadcast and print) from the seven priority states (Bauchi, Borno, Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Jigawa, and Yobe) were present, as were Development Partners, including UNICEF, BA-N, Red Cross, WHO, ICAP, and others. (NAN) #StakeholdersmeetonOutbreakspreadandResponseofDiphtheriainNigeria

[newstfionline]

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Coastal Cities Priced Out Low-Wage Workers. Now College Graduates Are Leaving, Too. (NYT) Major coastal metros have been hubs of the kind of educated workers coveted most by high-powered employers and economic development officials. These urban centers have become a class of their own—“superstar cities”—with outsize impact on the American economy fueled by the clustering of workers with degrees. But it appears in domestic migration data that, years after lower-wage residents have been priced out of expensive coastal metros, higher-paid workers are now turning away from them, too. Boston’s pull with college graduates has weakened. Seattle’s edge vanished during the pandemic. And the analysis shows San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles and Washington all crossing a significant threshold: More college-educated workers left than moved in. The college-educated workers who’ve turned away from them are increasingly migrating toward major metros that are still prosperous but not quite so expensive. Remote work has altered the bargain that educated workers must swallow high living costs to access the highest wages.

3 People Killed and 6 Injured in New Mexico Shooting (NYT) An 18-year-old gunman fired indiscriminately while roaming a residential street in Farmington, N.M., on Monday morning, killing three people before the police arrived and killed the suspect, the authorities said. Six other people, including two officers, were injured. Chief Steve Hebbe of the Farmington Police Department said that the gunman, whom he did not name, had used at least three different weapons, including an “AR-style rifle,” a gun commonly used in mass shootings, as he roamed through the neighborhood, randomly firing “at whatever entered his head to shoot at” including at least six houses and three cars. The shooting sent shock waves through the city of about 46,000 people, which is about 140 miles northwest of Albuquerque near the Navajo Nation reservation. The city serves as a commercial hub for nearby oil-producing areas as well as much of northwestern New Mexico.

Chief Standing Bear (NPR) Chief Standing Bear, whose landmark lawsuit in 1879 established that a Native American is a person under the law, is on a new postage stamp. The stamp’s release comes 146 years after the U.S. Army forcibly removed Chief Standing Bear and some 700 other members of the tribe from their homeland in northeast Nebraska. Standing Bear’s son was among those who died of hunger and disease after the tribe’s 600-mile journey on foot to the Indian Territory in Oklahoma. When Standing Bear made the perilous trip back to Nebraska to honor his son with a burial in the tribe’s homeland in 1879, he was arrested and imprisoned at Fort Omaha. His arrest was the catalyst for a lawsuit that led to an 1879 ruling that determined a Native American was a person under the law with an inherent right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

One Secret to a Latin American Party’s Dominance: Buying Votes (NYT) Democracy is being tested across the planet. In some countries, leaders have attacked democratic institutions, including in the United States, Turkey, Brazil and Mexico, while in other places they have upended the democratic process altogether, as in Russia, Venezuela and Nicaragua. But in many nations, a less visible, but just as pervasive threat continues to afflict free and fair elections: buying votes. Political parties in Mexico have handed out gift cards, groceries and even washing machines. Election observers said last year’s vote in the Philippines was plagued by “blatant vote buying.” In February, a politician in Nigeria was caught with $500,000 and a list of possible recipients the day before national elections. Last month in Paraguay, a nation of 7.4 million in the center of South America, The Times witnessed a different, but well-established practice: Political operatives rounded up Indigenous people in Paraguay’s remote north and tried to control or purchase their votes. In one case, a Colorado candidate for governor personally handed out 200,000 guaraníes, or nearly $30 each, to more than 100 Indigenous voters outside a polling station. That amount is equivalent to several weeks’ earnings for Paraguay’s poorest. The Colorado Party has held power for seven decades.

Chile’s firefighting goats (Reuters) In the southern Chilean city of Santa Juana, hit hard by wildfires earlier this year, locals have a special taskforce helping fight blazes: a herd of 150 goats. The goats have already saved the native forest of the Bosques de Chacay once, preventing the park from being consumed by February forest fires—fueled by heatwaves and a punishing drought—that left dozens dead, thousands injured and almost 440,000 hectares destroyed in south-central Chile. The technique, also used in Portugal and Spain, relies on grazing goats to control dry pastures and other vegetation that fuel forest fires in the summer. Goat droppings also help enrich the soil and prevent further erosion. The technique is known as “strategic grazing.”

Once Europe’s Headache, Greece Finds Its Feet (WSJ) Greece’s economy nearly broke the euro last decade. Now it is one of the fastest-growing in Europe’s common-currency zone. Greece still has a long way to go to heal from the deepest slump suffered by any developed economy since the 1930s. Nonetheless, the Greek economy grew by nearly 6% last year.

Zelenskyy’s European tour (AP) Volodymyr Zelenskyy set off across Europe with a long shopping list. Ukraine’s president will head home with much of what he wanted—though not the Western fighter jets he seeks to defend against Russian air attacks. European leaders promised Zelenskyy an arsenal of missiles, tanks and drones during a whirlwind three-day visit to Italy, the Vatican, Germany, France and the U.K. that sought to replenish Ukraine’s depleted weapons supplies ahead of a long-anticipated spring offensive aimed at turning the tide of the war. The trip was also about shoring up European political and military support for the longer term, to ensure Ukraine can hold any ground it takes back and press for a favorable peace.

Ukraine authorities expose piles of cash in Supreme Court corruption probe (Reuters) Ukrainian anti-graft authorities said on Monday they were investigating large-scale corruption in the country’s Supreme Court system and shared a photograph of piles of dollars neatly lined up on a sofa. The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) did not name anyone accused of corruption, but two local media organizations reported Supreme Court Chief Justice Vsevolod Kniaziev had been detained on suspicion of receiving a $3 million bribe. Brussels has made fighting corruption a precondition for Kyiv to join the 27-member European Union. Despite progress in recent years, Ukraine ranks 116th out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

Rupees and Russia (DW) Russia has become a global pariah economically, as many governments allied or sympathetic to Ukraine are cutting Russia out of global financial networks. One country that’s still buying Russian oil and gas is India, and even that’s causing problems for Russia. India’s imports of Russian crude are up from practically nothing in March of 2022 to over 1.5 billion barrels per day, with India spending $41.5 billion on Russian imports in total in the first 11 months of the 2022-23 fiscal year. There’s a problem for Russia, though, in that India exported just $2.8 billion worth of goods to them, which means that Russian entities have a gigantic pile of Indian rupees in their bank accounts and cannot actually find a way to spend them.

Move over, U.S. dollar. China wants to make the yuan the global currency. (Washington Post) Newsan, one of Argentina’s biggest home appliance retailers, imports most of its products from China. Until now, it was paying for fridges, TVs and parts in U.S. dollars, the currency of international trade. But last month, as part of a bid to relieve pressure on Argentina’s dollar-strapped economy, Newsan started doing something new: settling deals in Chinese yuan. “The yuan is becoming increasingly relevant as currency for international trade,” said Luis Galli, chief executive of Newsan. “But beggars don’t get to choose. This deal was born out of necessity.” The deal was welcome news for Beijing, which has long wanted its currency in wider use and to enjoy some of the power and prestige that the United States enjoys thanks to the dollar’s global domination. It wasn’t having much luck—until recently. Suddenly more customers are willing to settle their bills in Chinese yuan, thanks variously to domestic economic crises, Western sanctions against Russia, China’s position as a major lender and growing concerns about being beholden to Washington’s policies. The dollar’s widespread use makes it difficult to displace. Because it is widely used, it is easy to exchange, creating more incentive for countries to use it. This network effect encapsulates part of the challenge to adoption of the yuan, which is more expensive and inconvenient partly because there is less of it circulating outside China.

With eye on Ukraine, top Chinese general calls for unconventional warfare capabilities (Reuters) Drawing lessons from the Ukraine crisis, a top Chinese general urged greater integration of novel capabilities, including artificial intelligence, with conventional warfare tactics ahead of any confrontation with the West. A new genre of hybrid warfare has emerged from the Ukraine conflict, with the intertwining of “political warfare, financial warfare, technological warfare, cyber warfare, and cognitive warfare,” General Wang Haijiang, commander of the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) Western Theatre Command, wrote in a front-page article in an official newspaper on Monday. “At present and in the future, local conflicts and turmoil are frequent, global problems are intensifying, and the world has entered a new period of turmoil and change,” Wang wrote in Study Times. The PLA’s combat-readiness in a hypothetical war has become a focus in recent months as China flexes its military muscle over Taiwan, putting itself in potential conflict with the United States.

Fire at New Zealand hostel kills at least 6 people, officials say (AP) A fire ripped through a hostel in New Zealand’s capital overnight, killing at least six people and forcing others to flee the four-story building in their pajamas in what a fire chief on Tuesday called his “worst nightmare.” Officials said 52 people had made it out of the building alive but they were still trying to account for 11 others. Police said the cause of the fire was not known yet but they didn’t believe it had been deliberately lit. Residents told reporters that fire alarms would regularly sound in the building, possibly from people smoking or overly sensitive smoke monitors, so many had initially thought it was another false alarm.

Air strikes, artillery fire escalate as factions battle in Sudan capital (Reuters) Air strikes and artillery fire intensified sharply across Sudan’s capital early on Tuesday, residents said, as the army sought to defend key bases from paramilitary rivals it has been fighting for more than a month. The air strikes, explosions and clashes could be heard in the south of Khartoum, and there was heavy shelling across the River Nile in parts of the adjoining cities of Bahri and Omdurman, witnesses said. The fighting between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has caused a humanitarian crisis that threatens to destabilise the region, displacing more than 700,000 people inside Sudan and forcing about 200,000 to flee into neighbouring countries. Those who have remained in the capital are struggling to survive as food supplies dwindle, health services collapse and lawlessness spreads.

Michigan boy, 13, saves sister by hitting potential kidnapper with slingshot (Guardian) A 13-year-old boy in Michigan saved his younger sister from a potential kidnapper by shooting the attacker with a slingshot, according to authorities. Police called the boy’s actions “extraordinary” and said he deserved to be commended after defending his sister with a weapon many associate with the biblical hero David. The boy’s eight-year-old sister was hunting for mushrooms in her back yard in a rural area of Alpena township on Wednesday when a 17-year-old boy emerged from the woods, according to Michigan state police. “The suspect had come through the woods on to the property and came from behind her, grabbed her like you’d see in the movies—hand over the mouth, arm around the waist—and was attempting to pull her into the woods,” the state police lieutenant John Grimshaw told the local news outlet WGTU. The girl’s older brother saw the apparent abduction attempt from his bedroom window and proceeded to shoot the assailant in the head and chest with his slingshot, police said. Police arrested the 17-year-old (who had slingshot injuries) after they found him hiding at a nearby gas station.