National Reports Research Articles

Effects of Green Financing Drives on the Performance of DSE Listed Banks in Bangladesh

All commercial banks must take green financing drives to promote environment-friendly projects in their mainstream investment. Inherently, all commercial banks are encouraged to make a profit, but exploring the relationship between GF and bank performance is necessary. This article categorizes the data regarding different types of green financing such as renewable energy, alternative energy, energy efficiency, liquid waste management, recycling and manufacturing of recycling products, Hybrid Hoffman Kiln (HHK), environment-friendly green structures, green agriculture etc. The study feeds an inclusive overview of the GF situation with a particular emphasis on renewable energy (RE), energy efficiency (EE), liquid waste management (LWM), recycling and manufacturing of recycling goods (RRG), producing environment-friendly bricks (PEFB), and green ecology friendly establishments (GEE) and its impact on bank profitability in Bangladesh. This research collects secondary data from related published articles, Bangladesh Bank annual reports, quarterly reports, sustainability reports, other commercial banks' reports, different proceedings, ADB reports, World Bank reports, and national newspaper reports from 2014 to 2023. MS-Excell-2016, with SPSS software version 25, was applied to conduct the research. According to the results of the study, GF has a significant impact on bank profitability. Regression Model 1 indicates that energy efficiency (EE) and the recycling and manufacturing of recycling goods (RRG) have the most positive impact on bank performance (ROA and ROE). Regression Model 2 found that renewable energy (RE) impacts bank performance. However, the main challenge is creating awareness among the bankers, BB, other regulators, and the community. The possible future essence of this study is to convince bankers and policy planners that GF can be the best solution for surviving in the competitive market, maximizing wealth, and improving bank profitability.

High-risk medication errors: Insight from the UK National Reporting and learning system

BackgroundEnsuring patient safety is of paramount importance in healthcare systems. Rising concerns about medical errors in the UK have necessitated a greater focus on studying the nature of such errors, particularly those involving high-risk medications. ObjectivesTo conduct a retrospective analysis of incidents related to patient safety in the UK based on data from the National Rporting and Learning System (NRLS). MethodsThis study was conducted based on a review of the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS) patient safety reports published between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2015. NHS Improvement provides details regarding incidents following approval using a data-sharing agreement. In total, 1500 incidents were analszed and equally divided among the three categories of high-risk drugs: opioids, insulin, and anticoagulants. Excel® features and deductive reasoning (thematic analysis) were used for data analysis. ResultsThe results showed that the insulin category had both the highest risk and most errors compared with anticoagulants and opioids. These errors primarily result from issues related to administering, prescribing, and dispensing the drugs. Inadequate drug checks, communication difficulties among staff and patients, and high staff workloads are often linked to these errors. ConclusionThis study confirms that the NRLS database is a valuable source of data, and the suggestions put forth, based on these results, could contribute to the formulation of measures that diminish the occurrence of errors related to high-risk drugs in healthcare settings. Information technology should enhance medication safety by tracking the process of medication use.

Thermal Transmittance Limits Dataset for New and Existing Buildings Across EU Regulations

Building energy regulations are essential for reducing energy consumption in the European Union (EU) and achieving climate neutrality goals. This data article supplements the “Overview of EU Building Envelope Energy Requirement for Climate Neutrality” by presenting a detailed dataset on building regulations across all 27 EU member states, with a focus on building envelope efficiency. The data include thermal transmittance limits for windows, walls, floors, and roofs, offering insights into regulatory differences and potential opportunities for harmonization. Information was sourced from the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) database, national reports, and scientific literature to ensure comprehensive coverage. Key aspects of each country’s regulations are summarized in tables, covering both new constructions and renovations. The inclusion of Köppen–Geiger climate classifications allows for climate-specific analyses, providing valuable context for researchers, policymakers, and construction professionals. This dataset enables comparative studies, helping to identify best practices and inform policy interventions aimed at enhancing energy efficiency across Europe. It also supports the development of tailored strategies to improve building performance in different environmental conditions, ultimately contributing to the EU’s energy and climate targets.

EXPLORING THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF CELIBACY SYNDROME: SOCIETAL TRENDS AND THEIR IMPACT IN JAPAN

This study investigates the complex impact of celibacy syndrome on social and economic aspects in Japan, where there has been a noticeable reduction in interest and engagement in romantic relationships and sexual activities, particularly among the younger generation. To meet the objective of this study, descriptive research design has been used. The data has been collected from secondary sources like national reports on fertility survey of Japan, news articles, and statista database, published research articles and research papers. In conclusion, the impact of celibacy syndrome in Japan extends across individuals, society, business, and the economy, showcasing a nuanced interplay of both positive and challenging consequences. While financial autonomy, personal transformation, and a focus on learning emerge as positive individual outcomes, there are concerns regarding social withdrawal, loneliness, and potential mental health challenges. Societal impacts include shifts in cultural norms and challenges to social cohesion. In the business realm, a highly dedicated workforce may be a positive outcome, but demographic challenges and changes in consumer behavior pose economic risks. This study can be further extended by collecting first hand data and experience from the individuals to support with empirical evidences.

A scoping review on sociodemographic inequalities in breast cancer screening attendance in Germany

Abstract Background Organized breast cancer screening (BCS) programs are effective measures among women aged 50-69 for preventing the fifth cause of death in Germany. However, still participation rates have not yet reached EU standards. It is unclear which and how sociodemographic factors are related to BCS attendance. This scoping review aims to identify sociodemographic inequalities in BCS attendance among 50-69-year-old women following implementing the Organized Screening Program in Germany. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched the Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. We included primary studies with a quantitative study design and reviews examining BCS attendance among women aged 50-69 with data from 2005 onwards in Germany. Harvest plots depicting effect size direction for the different identified sociodemographic inequalities were developed. Results We screened 476 titles and abstracts and 33 full texts. In total, 27 records were analysed, 14 were national reports, and 13 peer-reviewed articles. Eight sociodemographic variables were identified and summarised in the harvest plots: age, education, income, migration status, type of district, employment status, partnership cohabitation and health insurance. Older women, women with lower incomes and migration backgrounds who live in rural areas and lack private insurance, respond more favourably to BCS invitations. However, from a lifetime perspective, these associations only hold for migration background, are reversed for income and urban residency, and are complemented by partner cohabitation. Finally, women living in the federal states of Lower Saxony, Saxony, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia showed higher attendance rates in the last two years. Conclusions High-quality research is needed to identify women at higher risk of not attending BCS in Germany, particularly as the overall attendance rate still falls below European standards. Key messages • High-quality research is needed to identify women at higher risk of not attending BCS in Germany, particularly as the overall attendance rate still falls below European standards. • Women without migration background, high income, living in rural areas, and not cohabitating with their partners are at higher risk of never attending BCS in Germany.

Ensuring sustainable impact of the national report on climate change and health in Germany 2023

Abstract Issue/problem The Robert Koch Institute recently coordinated a status report on climate change and health for Germany, detailing the current and future impact of climate change on health through 14 chapters. Description of the problem A central aim was to ensure the report’s long-term impact and public health value. Essential areas of focus have therefore been stakeholder-specific communication and establishing a network of experts for continued scientific exchange. Results The publication of the report as peer-reviewed articles has served to reach the scientific community. Another target group are public health practitioners and decision makers at subnational levels, who can contribute towards climate change mitigation and adaptation measures relevant to health, as recommended in the report. This latter group was reached through various methods and formats of science communication, including conferences aimed at the public health sector, through target-group oriented podcasts, social media engagement and digital town hall discussions. Following publication, the experts involved in writing, reviewing and using the report were invited to establish a network in order to support long-term scientific exchange and collaborations and in turn ensure the report’s sustainable impact and value. Lessons Through follow-up evaluations, the reception of the report and the further communication needs of this target group were analysed. A major lesson was to include the insights of public health practitioners more systematically and at an earlier stage in any future reports. As for the establishment of a network, a survey amongst the authors and other experts showed what this group considers the goals of this network: creating synergies and connections with existing initiatives and providing a platform for further exchange, especially amongst researchers addressing similar questions, such as the efficacy of mitigation and adaptation measures, from different angles. Key messages • Local public health practitioners are important stakeholders for climate change and health for ensuring public health impact. • The expertise in the network will support continued scientific exchange on climate change and health and thus ensure the national report’s sustainability.

Lithuanian Intelligence Services’ Strategic Communication: 2012–2022 National Threat Assessments, Activity Reports and Recruitment Videos

This study examines the communication of the State Security Department of the Republic of Lithuania and the Second Investigation Department under the Ministry of National Defence in 2012–2022. It identifies the aspects relevant to the strategic communication of the intelligence services, analyses specifics of the texts and tendencies in national threat assessments and activity reports, and examines how these institutions present themselves. The study applies the theory of securitisation and critical discourse analysis. It includes other research related to the topic, practices of foreign intelligence services in publishing annual reports and using the YouTube social media platform, media publications and other sources. The study concludes that strategic communication for intelligence agencies is essential for the long-term success of their operations. By focusing on strategic objectives, they inform and educate the public about themselves and national security and develop a cooperative relationship, contributing to deterrence. Both institutions examined in this study are becoming not only formally more open to the public, but also aim to build and maintain a high institutional reputation, connect with their audience and create an image of professionalism, modern accountability and openness to the public.

6.F. Scientific session: Understanding the impact of climate change on health: the latest reports from EEA and NPHIs

Abstract Climate change poses a significant threat to human life and wellbeing worldwide. Extreme weather events like heatwaves, storms or floods can have adverse impacts on health, as can many other factors influenced by climate change, such as allergens, UV radiation and vector-borne diseases. In order to support the action needed to protect and promote health and wellbeing, many National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) aim to keep relevant stakeholders informed on the scientific evidence of the impacts of climate change on health. Reports that synthesise the evidence can help in the development of suitable and health-relevant climate change adaptation and mitigation measures. In this workshop, European Environment Agency assessments on climate and health are presented, including the European Climate Risk Assessment Report and recent outputs of the European Climate and Health Observatory. Next, three NPHIs introduce their recent national reports on the impact of climate change on health, sharing lessons learned and valuable insights into their content, process and reception, highlighting similarities and differences. The workshop will feature presentations by NPHIs from the United Kingdom (UK Health Security Agency), Germany (Robert Koch Institute), and the Netherlands (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) as well as the European Climate and Health Observatory. The perspective of the European Climate and Health Observatory offers Europe-wide insights as a provider of tools and knowledge that support actions from NPHIs and other health actors. Our aim is to highlight the value of such reports, and inform and inspire NPHIs and other stakeholders that may be considering the publication of similar reports. The format of the workshop will be informative and interactive, with opportunity for Q&A, discussion, and engagement with the audience. By showcasing the recent reports, the workshop aims to increase awareness of climate change as a public health issue and establish NPHIs as key climate actors. Furthermore, it aims to highlight the importance of having a national, up-to-date evidence base to drive climate measures and enhance resilience. Key messages • National evidence-based reports on climate change and health are a useful tool for informing health-relevant climate change adaptation and mitigation measures. • Through the public health functions of surveillance, monitoring, responding and evaluating, NPHIs play a crucial role in collating and assessing the evidence on the health effects of climate change.

A healthcare workforce assessment model using reimbursement data in Luxembourg

Abstract Background The assessment of the healthcare professional (HCP) headcount and level of activity is a real challenge for policy makers. In Luxembourg, there is no uniform definition of practicing HCP. This work focused on identifying a method to assess HCP headcount and their level of activity in Luxembourg, while finding national consensus. Methods A thorough literature review was conducted to find methods that assess practicing HCP and identify their level of activity. Eligible were scientific papers or national reports discussing methods on employed and self-employed HCP. National reimbursement data were used for preliminary data explorations conducted alongside the ‘General Inspectorate of Social Security’ in Luxembourg and discussed with the ‘Institut national d’assurance maladie-invalidité (INAMI)’ in Belgium. Two working groups were planned with national stakeholders to discuss HCP assessment methodologies. Both the collaborations and the working groups led to a preliminary validated HCP assessment method. To reach national consensus, a Delphi study is planned in June 2024, using the eDelphi.org platform. Invited panelists include researchers, professionals, healthcare practitioners, decision makers and policy makers, patient representatives, and insurers. Results The literature review found 16 eligible papers on HCP headcount and HCP’ level of activity. Finally, the Belgian method, developed by experts from INAMI, using reimbursement data and establishing a median reimbursement for each medical specialty was retained for Luxembourg. The results of the Delphi study will inform on the level of agreement on relevance, clarity and completeness of the proposed methodology for Luxembourg. Discussion Finding national consensus represents a strong foundation for efforts to advance the use of the proposed methodology in healthcare workforce assessment and planning. Key messages • Counting something as simple as healthcare professionals requires a strong methodology that held the buy-in of all major stakeholder. • As working behavior of HCP evolves over time, it is crucial to not only count professionals but also full-time equivalents for policy makers to plan ahead in an accurate manner.

A Case for a Maternal Culturally Tailored Smoking Cessation Research Agenda

Background/Objectives: Despite national efforts, smoking rates during pregnancy remain high among certain demographics, particularly American Indian/Alaska Native and younger women. This study examines the causal link between maternal smoking, maternal and fetal mortality, and social determinants of health, highlighting disparities faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and American Indian/Alaskan Native (AIAN) pregnant persons. Methods: Data from various sources, including national reports and committee findings, were analyzed to assess trends in maternal smoking, mortality rates, and associated factors. While smoking rates among all groups have declined, disparities persist. Young women, BIPOC, and American Indian/Alaska Native women, and those with lower educational attainment, have higher smoking rates. Black women exhibit significantly higher maternal mortality rates, often linked to cardiac/coronary conditions. Stress, exacerbated by social determinants of health like poverty and housing insecurity, emerges as a key factor driving smoking behavior, particularly among African Americans. The leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths vary by race and ethnicity, with preventability noted in 80% of cases. Perinatal exposure to cigarette smoking is also identified as a leading cause of poor infant health outcomes, emphasizing the importance of addressing smoking behavior during and after pregnancy. Results: This report advocates for a comprehensive approach to reducing maternal and fetal mortality rates, with a focus on adapting existing smoking cessation programs to adopt culturally tailored agendas in order to address social and political determinants of health as well as behavioral drivers of tobacco use among pregnant persons.

Difference between real world practice and clinical research: A comparison of oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal sampling data in influenza

Oropharyngeal (OP) sampling is one of the most commonly used methods for respiratory sampling, but its positivity rate in real practice compared with that of nasopharyngeal (NP) sampling is not fully known. The differences between OP and NP in practice and between practice and the literature were compared. In total, 2323 positive results from 6708 patients were recorded in the laboratory test system, and 15,021 positive results from 31,333 patients were recorded in the national report. The positivity rate changed from 2.3 % to 38.11 % after the sampling method was changed from OP to NP in the same setting. The difference between OP and NP (calculated as (NP-OP)/NP) varies from −7.73–28.57 % in the literature and from 61.35–94.59 % in practice. Real-world practice is complicated and thus different from strictly quality-controlled studies.

Multiple points of system failure underpin continuous subcutaneous infusion safety incidents in palliative care: A mixed methods analysis.

About 25% of palliative medication incidents involve continuous subcutaneous infusions. Complex structural and human factor issues make these risk-prone interventions. Detailed analysis of how this safety-critical care can be improved has not been undertaken. Understanding context, contributory factors and events leading to incidents is essential. (1) Understand continuous subcutaneous infusion safety incidents and their impact on patients and families; (2) Identify targets for system improvements by learning from recurrent events and contributory factors. Following systematic identification and stratification by degree of harm, a mixed methods analysis of palliative medication incidents involving continuous subcutaneous infusions comprising quantitative descriptive analysis using the PatIent SAfety (PISA) classification system and qualitative narrative analysis of free-text reports. Palliative medication incidents (n = 7506) reported to the National Reporting and Learning System, England and Wales (2016-2021). About 1317/7506 incidents involved continuous subcutaneous infusions with 943 (72%) detailing harms. Primary incidents (most proximal to patient outcomes) leading to inappropriate medication use (including not using medication when it was needed) were underpinned by breakdowns in three major medication processes: monitoring and supply (405, 31%), administration (383, 29%) and prescribing (268, 20%). Recurring contributory factors included discontinuity of care within and between settings, inadequate time, inadequate staffing and unfamiliarity with protocols. Psychological harms for patients and families were identified. System infrastructure is needed to enable timely supply of medication and equipment, effective coordinated use of continuous subcutaneous infusions, communication and continuity of care. Training is needed to improve incident descriptions so these pinpoint precise targets for safer care.

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AS A BASIS FOR THE FORMATION OF HUMAN CAPITAL IN RURAL AREAS

The article is dedicated to the analysis of economic, social, and environmental problems that intensified at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century, stimulating the development of the concept of sustainable development. The authors examine contemporary challenges related to inequality between rich and poor countries, rising greenhouse gas emissions, and the consequences for the environment and society. The aim of the study is to systematize and generalize the existing theoretical and methodological foundations of sustainable development and to clarify them in the context of human capital formation in rural areas. The historical development of the concept of sustainable development, which was established at the UN conference in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, is considered, and three main components of this concept are presented: economic, social, and environmental. The study addresses the classical concept of sustainable development based on the Venn diagram, illustrating the harmonious combination of these components. Special attention is given to the analysis of indicators used for assessing sustainable development in rural areas. Specifically, both domestic and foreign methodological approaches to measuring the effectiveness and inclusiveness of the development of these areas are studied. The article examines various methodological approaches to assessing sustainable development, particularly in rural areas, with a focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN. The study presents an analysis of 17 Global Goals adopted for the period until 2030, aimed at achieving peace, prosperity, and sustainable development in all countries. It is revealed that Ukraine, as a UN member, has actively participated in the implementation of the SDGs, particularly through the national report “Sustainable Development Goals: Ukraine” in 2017. The study substantiates the importance of adapting global goals to the national characteristics of Ukraine, taking into account the specifics of the socio-economic and ecological system. A list of key goals for sustainable development in rural areas of Ukraine is provided, including poverty eradication, agricultural development, ensuring quality education, clean water, decent work, innovation, and infrastructure. The research identifies the importance of indicators for monitoring the achievement of goals and comparing them with the target values planned for 2030. However, considering the current situation with Russian aggression, the achievement of these goals is only possible in the long-term perspective.

Polygyny, Infant, and Child Mortality in Pakistan: Moderating Effect of Household Wealth Status.

The United Nations report in 2021 ranks Pakistan 21st among countries with the highest infant and child mortality rate in the world. It is the fifth most populous country in the world with a growth rate of 2% annually. Therefore, understanding child mortality is crucial to reducing the child mortality burden. The research utilized two waves of the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS), 2012-13 and 2017-18. The data are analyzed using logistic regression with interaction effects of household wealth status and propensity score matching techniques. The study reveals a positive link between polygyny and infant and child mortality. The odd ratios higher than "1" indicate increased mortality risk for infants and children belonging to polygynous families taking monogamous families as a reference category. Mortality risk is higher among children (OR 1.50 CI 0.18-12.63) as compared with infants (OR 1.28 CI 0.37-4.45). The main effect of household shows a negative association with infant and child mortality while after interacting with polygyny it turns out to be positive. The mortality risks increase with increasing wealth status. It can be translated as a positive link between household wealth status, and infant and child mortality in the context of polygyny. Infants and children belonging to polygynous families experience increased mortality risk as compared with monogamous families. The household wealth status may not help improve child mortality.

Study protocol of the safe driving program for the prevention of car accidents: A randomized controlled trial protocol.

Driving cessation is strongly associated with adverse health outcomes in older adults. Although numerous studies have focused on driving skill interventions for safe driving, the effects of interventions on car accidents remain unclear. We designed a randomized controlled trial to examine the effects of driving skill training on the prevention of car accidents among community-dwelling older adults using on-road training. A total of 1408 community-dwelling older drivers aged ≥65 years participated in the randomized controlled trial with blinded endpoint assessment. Participants randomized to the intervention group (n = 697) underwent four sessions, with 200 min re-training focused on the problem of driving in the older people. Controls (n = 697) received one classroom education session. On-road driving performance was assessed by certified driving school instructors in a driving school. The primary endpoint is an incident car accident, which will be detected based on the Japanese national car accident report data, after 24 months. This study has the potential to provide the first evidence of the effectiveness of on-road driving skill training regarding the prevention of car accidents. If our trial results show a lower number of car accidents due to driving skill training, this kind of intervention will provide an effective method for maintaining safe driving. These results will be disseminated to the appropriate national transportation agencies to improve or modify safe driving policies and possibly extend the validity of driver's licenses for older adults. UMIN-CTR (identification number: UMIN000034709). Registered 31 October 2018. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••-••.

Physics teachers’ views of inquiry and classroom practices

Inquiry-based instruction has been suggested and practiced in national and international reports on science education. Scientific inquiry aims to enhance learners’ engagement in doing science through exploration including asking questions, data collection and analysis, and constructing explanations in an iterative process. One of the crucial problems in science education is whether science teachers integrate their views about inquiry into teaching practices. This study examines 30 experienced high school physics teachers’ views about inquiry and their classroom practices. The mixed methods design explored physics teachers’ views through semi-structured interviews and classroom practices through classroom observations conducted by observation protocols. The results showed less agreement between teachers’ views and practices; teachers tended to teach in traditional ways through lecturing although they possessed transitional or constructivist views of inquiry. The results offer science educators further insight into the relationship between views and practices to design and conduct professional development programs.

Business continuity, bureaucratic resilience and the limitations of neoliberal survival logics in international organisations

Abstract This article contends that investigating relationalities between business continuity management (BCM), staff behaviours, and bureaucratic resilience advances understandings of the survival of international organisations (IOs). Drawing on in-depth interviews, a global staff survey, and a discourse analysis of United Nations (UN) reports and applying a post-colonial feminist theoretical approach foregrounding care ethics to the study of IOs, the article examines how the UN Secretary-General’s Alternative Working Arrangements directive to close physical offices and open ‘virtual offices’ was implemented in the first 18 months of the Covid-19 pandemic. It is contended that BCM is necessary for IO survival, since if the IO bureaucracy is unable to be productive and maintain its spheres of influence during a crisis, it risks losing power and authority. Between March 2020 and August 2021, staff facilitated IO survival organically, from the bottom up, in four ways: demonstrating good performance and productivity; being adaptable and resilient; maintaining personal spheres of influence; and building communities of care within the UN. However, the UN’s neoliberal, technocratic approach to business continuity and bureaucratic resilience-building neglected staff care needs. Consequently, IO survival is predicated on staff performing as exploited gendered and racialised ‘neoliberal subjects’, revealing a chronic structural crisis rooted in the UN bureaucracy’s hierarchical composition and unequal employment regime.

Global radiotherapy demands and corresponding radiotherapy-professional workforce requirements in 2022 and predicted to 2050: a population-based study.

Addressing the challenge of cancer control requires a comprehensive, integrated, and global health-system response. We aimed to estimate global radiotherapy demands and requirements for radiotherapy professionals from 2022 to 2050. We conducted a population-based study using data from the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022 and predicted global radiotherapy demands and workforce requirements in 2050. We obtained incidence figures for 29 types of cancer across 183 countries and derived the cancer-specific radiotherapy use rate using the 2013 Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation model. We delineated the proportion of people with cancer who require radiotherapy and can be accommodated within the existing installed capacity, assuming an optimal use rate of 50% or 64%, in both 2022 and 2050. A use rate of 50% corresponds to the global average and a use rate of 64% considers potential re-treatment scenarios, as indicated by the 2013 Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CCORE) radiotherapy use rate model. We established specified requirements for teletherapy units at a ratio of 1:450 patients, for radiation oncologists at a ratio of 1:250 patients, for medical physicists at a ratio of 1:450 patients, and for radiation therapists at a ratio of 1:150 patients in all countries and consistently using these ratios. We collected current country-level data on the radiotherapy-professional workforce from national health reports, oncology societies, or other authorities from 32 countries. In 2022, there were an estimated 20·0 million new cancer diagnoses, with approximately 10·0 million new patients needing radiotherapy at an estimated use rate of 50% and 12·8 million at an estimated use rate of 64%. In 2050, GLOBOCAN 2022 data indicated 33·1 million new cancer diagnoses, with 16·5 million new patients needing radiotherapy at an estimated use rate of 50% and 21·2 million at an estimated use rate of 64%. These findings indicate an absolute increase of 8·4 million individuals requiring radiotherapy from 2022 to 2050 at an estimated use rate of 64%; at an estimated use rate of 50%, the absolute increase would be 6·5 million individuals. Asia was estimated to have the highest radiotherapy demand in 2050 (11 119 478 [52·6%] of 21 161 603 people with cancer), followed by Europe (3 564 316 [16·8%]), North America (2 546 826 [12·0%]), Latin America and the Caribbean (1 837 608 [8·7%]), Africa (1 799 348 [8·5%]), and Oceania (294 026 [1·4%]). We estimated that the global radiotherapy workforce in 2022 needed 51 111 radiation oncologists, 28 395 medical physicists, and 85 184 radiation therapists and 84 646 radiation oncologists, 47 026 medical physicists, and 141 077 radiation therapists in 2050. We estimated that the largest proportion of the radiotherapy workforce in 2050 would be in upper-middle-income countries (101 912 [38·8%] of 262 624 global radiotherapy professionals). Urgent strategies are required to empower the global health-care workforce and facilitate the fundamental human right of access to suitable health care. A collective effort with innovative and cost-contained health-care strategies from all stakeholders is warranted to enhance global accessibility to radiotherapy and address challenges in cancer care. China Medical Board Global Health Leadership Development Program, Shanghai Science and Technology Committee Fund, China Ministry of Science and Technology Department of International Cooperation High Level Cooperation and Exchange Projects, and Fudan University Office of Global Partnerships Key Projects Development Fund. For the Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish translations of the summary see Supplementary Materials section.

Emergence of the B.1.214.2 SARS-CoV-2 lineage with an Omicron-like spike insertion and a unique upper airway immune signature

We investigate the emergence, mutation profile, and dissemination of SARS-CoV-2 lineage B.1.214.2, first identified in Belgium in January 2021. This variant, featuring a 3-amino acid insertion in the spike protein similar to the Omicron variant, was speculated to enhance transmissibility or immune evasion. Initially detected in international travelers, it substantially transmitted in Central Africa, Belgium, Switzerland, and France, peaking in April 2021. Our travel-aware phylogeographic analysis, incorporating travel history, estimated the origin to the Republic of the Congo, with primary European entry through France and Belgium, and multiple smaller introductions during the epidemic. We correlate its spread with human travel patterns and air passenger data. Further, upon reviewing national reports of SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks in Belgian nursing homes, we found this strain caused moderately severe outcomes (8.7% case fatality ratio). A distinct nasopharyngeal immune response was observed in elderly patients, characterized by 80% unique signatures, higher B- and T-cell activation, increased type I IFN signaling, and reduced NK, Th17, and complement system activation, compared to similar outbreaks. This unique immune response may explain the variant's epidemiological behavior and underscores the need for nasal vaccine strategies against emerging variants.

THE RISE OF ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IN 2023: A GLOBAL AND INDIAN HEALTHCARE PERSPECTIVE"- A SHORT COMMUNICATION

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has reached alarming levels globally, and India is at the forefront of this crisis. In 2023, Indian hospitals are witnessing an increase in multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. This short communication highlights key examples of AMR from Indian hospitals, exploring common resistant bacterial strains, underlying causes, and strategies for mitigation. Data from tertiary care hospitals, national reports, and the Indian Network for Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance (INSAR) are reviewed to understand the depth of the issue and potential solutions.