Question for written answer E-002656/2025/rev.1 to the Commission Rule 144 Gerald Hauser (PfE)
The Robert Koch Institute is the central federal institute in the field of infection control in the Federal Republic of Germany. Its expertise is also in great demand at international level and it works closely with institutions worldwide, including the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Since Decision No 1082/2013/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 October 2013 on serious cross-border threats to health, it has been determined that in the event of a pandemic, the Commission shall be responsible for coordinating all measures and there is to be an unrestricted exchange of information between EU Member States and the Commission. Austria’s former Minister of Health, for example, stated that the Austrian Government has been receiving the findings of the Robert Koch Institute’s COVID-19 crisis management unit since March 2020.
1.When did the Commission start receiving the findings of the Robert Koch Institute’s COVID-19 crisis management unit?
2.Since when have other Commission bodies or advisory committees – in particular the ECDC or the EMA – also been receiving the findings of the Robert Koch Institute’s COVID-19 crisis management unit?
3.What protocols, data, recommendations or information has the Robert Koch Institute received in return from the Commission or its bodies and advisory committees since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and since when?
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — S.BIOMEDICS announced encouraging one-year post-transplant results from Phase 1/2a clinical trial evaluating A9-DPC cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease. The data demonstrate a favorable safety and efficacy profile of A9-DPC in 12 participants at 12 months compared to baseline. Participants were divided equally into a low-dose group (3.15 million cells) and a high-dose group (6.30 million cells).
A9-DPC (TED-A9) consists of high-purity ventral midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) under rigorous GMP conditions.
A total of 12 participants received bilateral putamen transplantation with either a low-dose (3.15 million cells; n = 6) or a high-dose (6.30 million cells; n = 6) of A9-DPC, with the last participant receiving treatment in February 2024.
At 12 months, the safety profile was favorable, with no tumorigenesis, overgrowth of transplanted cells, ectopic cell migration, or immune-mediated inflammation observed.
Clinical improvements were observed, along with evidence of cell survival and engraftment at the 12-month follow-up.
Increased dopamine transporter (DAT) signals in putamen, measured by [18F]FP-CIT PET, correlated with the observed improvements of motor function.
The MDS-UPDRS Part III (off) score, a standard scale for assessing motor symptom severity in Parkinson’s disease, showed a mean decrease (improvement) of 12.7 points in the low-dose group and 15.5 points in the high-dose group at 12 months compared to baseline. There were also improvements in MDS-UPDRS Part I, II and IV scores. The MDS-UPDRS Total (off) score showed mean improvements of 29.0 points and 34.7 points in the low- and high-dose groups, respectively.
Clinical improvements were further supported by changes in the Hoehn and Yahr stage, an ordinal scale categorizing disease severity based on motor function. On average, low-dose recipients improved (decreased) from stage 3.7 to 2.7, while high-dose recipients demonstrated a greater improvement from stage 3.8 to 2.2.
A9-DPC also demonstrated favorable outcomes in other assessments, including the Non-Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS), the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39) and the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living Scale (SEADL). NMSS score improved by 31.7 points in the low-dose group and by 35.8 points in the high-dose group.
[18F]FP-CIT PET imaging showed an overall increase in putamen DAT signals, with greater increases observed in the high-dose group, providing additional evidence for the underlying mechanism of action. Notably, there was a statistically significant correlation between improvements in MDS-UPDRS Part III (off) scores and increased DAT signal in the posterior dorsal putamen, supporting the hypothesis of synaptic restoration through engrafted cells.
In terms of safety, the safety profile remained favorable. No treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) related to the transplanted cells were reported. Tumorigenesis, cell overgrowth, or ectopic cell migration was not observed. Most of TEAEs were mild to moderate. One participant experienced an asymptomatic mild hemorrhage, but no neurological abnormalities or other serious side effects were observed.
“Our data show a consistent positive trend throughout the study period, demonstrating the favorable safety and efficacy profiles. Importantly, increased DAT signals on PET imaging correlated with the observed behavioral recovery, which is very promising in terms of the mechanism of A9-DPC through neuroimaging.” said Prof. Dong-Wook Kim of Yonsei University College of Medicine and CTO of S.BIOMEDICS. “We will continue to present additional data through our ongoing study.”
About A9-DPCand Phase1/2aclinical trial
A9-DPC (also called TED-A9) is an investigational cell therapy designed to replace ventral midbrain-specific dopaminergic neurons lost in patients with Parkinson’s disease. These ventral midbrain-specific dopaminergic cells are derived from hESCs (human embryonic stem cells) by exclusively utilizing small molecules under strict GMP conditions. A9-DPC represents a significant advancement in the field, offering highly purified dopaminergic cells derived from hESCs. Through a stereotactic surgical procedure, these hESC-derived dopaminergic progenitor (precursor) cells are transplanted into three segments of the putamen: the anterior, middle, and posterior sections, with three tracks per each putamen. Bilateral putamina were treated in a single surgical procedure, with cells injected at three points within each track. After transplantation, the progenitor cells are expected to mature into dopaminergic neurons, enhancing neural connectivity and restoring motor function in patients.
The Phase 1/2a clinical trial enrolled 12 participants diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease for more than 5 years who exhibited motor complications such as wearing off, freezing of gait, or dyskinesia. Participants ranged from 50 to 75 years old. An initial low-dose cohort (3.15 million cells) of three patients was first enrolled to assess initial safety including dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) over three months. After confirming safety, an additional three patients received the high dose (6.30 million cells) for similar evaluation. With continued safety confirmation, three more patients were enrolled in each dose group, totaling 12 participants. The final participant received A9-DPC in February 2024.
The primary objective of the Phase 1/2a trial is to evaluate the safety and exploratory efficacy for up to two years post-transplantation, with safety follow-up continuing for an additional three years.
About S.BIOMEDICS
Established in 2005, S.BIOMEDICS Co., Ltd. is a leading innovator in stem cell therapy, specializing in regenerative medicine powered by data-driven biology. Leveraging two core platform technologies, S.BIOMEDICS is currently advancing seven cell therapy programs targeting intractable diseases. Several of its lead candidates are now in clinical development, demonstrating the company’s leadership in advancing cell-based medicine:
A9-DPC (TED-A9): Ventral midbrain-specific dopaminergic progenitor cells derived from hESCs for Parkinson’s disease (Phase 1/2a)
TED-N: PSA-NCAM-positive neural progenitor cells derived from hESCs for spinal cord injury (Phase 1/2a)
FECS-Ad: 3D MSC spheroids for critical limb ischemia (completed Phase 1/2a)
As the foremost authority and trailblazer in Parkinson’s disease treatment in South Korea, S.BIOMEDICS is setting the national standard for cell therapy innovation.
More Information about the Phase 1/2a clinical trial for Parkinson’s disease is available at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05887466).
For more information about S.BIOMEDICS, visit https://www.sbiomedics.com/. S.BIOMEDICS is listed on the Korea Exchange and is also the founder and controller of S.THEPHARM (www.sthepharm.com), a corporation specializing in anti-aging products such as HA-Filler.
The Harris is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated reopening exhibition with a spectacular celebration of art and animation: ‘Wallace & Gromit in A Case at the Museum’.
This blockbuster exhibition will open Sunday, 28 September 2025 as the centrepiece of The Harris’ grand reopening after the completion of the Harris Your Place project.
Bringing the whimsical worlds of Aardman’s beloved creations to life, this family-friendly exhibition will showcase the creative genius behind some of the UK’s most iconic characters, including Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Feathers McGraw.
Visitors will enjoy an immersive journey through original sketches, sets, and props, alongside interactive exhibits that offer a behind-the-scenes look at Aardman’s unique stop-motion animation techniques.
Councillor Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council said:
“We couldn’t think of a better way to welcome our visitors back to The Harris than with Aardman’s magical characters. This exhibition celebrates the artistry of animation and will be an unforgettable experience for families and fans.”
Nick Park, Creator of Wallace & Gromit said:
“Growing up, I was always interested in Preston’s history and heritage, and The Harris played a big part in that. I found the museum fascinating as a child – I loved exploring the artifacts – and the Library was such a great resource. As a young inquisitive filmmaker, I spent time there, reading all about filmmaking and animation. The Harris has definitely left a lasting impression on me.”
Marking almost 50 years of animation excellence, this exhibition not only celebrates Aardman’s legacy but also reflects The Harris’ mission to inspire creativity and curiosity in visitors of all ages. As the first major exhibition following the multi-million-pound Harris Your Place renovation of The Harris, ‘Wallace & Gromit in A Case at the Museum’ represents a renewed commitment to making art and culture accessible to everyone.
Plan your visit
‘Wallace & Gromit in A Case at the Museum’ will run from Sunday 28 September 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026 at The Harris.
About The Harris
Opened in 1893, the Grade I listed building is owned and managed by Preston City Council. Based in Preston, Lancashire, The Harris is one of the leading museums, galleries and libraries in the region and an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation. Host to art collections of national significance, exciting activities and events for all ages and an award-winning contemporary art programme, The Harris is Preston’s landmark cultural hub.
Currently delivering Harris Your Place project, made possible with National Lottery Heritage Fund; UK Government Towns Fund; Preston City Council; Lancashire County Council; the Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal; DCMS; Arts Council England, public donations and a wide range of Trusts and Foundations including Garfield Weston Foundation, Wolfson Foundation, The Harris Charity, Harris Trust and Friends of the Harris.
The magnificent Grade I Listed building is poised to reopen on Sunday, 28 September 2025. To learn more, visit The Harris.
About The National Lottery Heritage Fund
Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. That’s why as the largest funder of the UK’s heritage we are dedicated to supporting projects that connect people and communities to heritage, as set out in our strategic plan, Heritage 2033. Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to future generations. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past.
Over the next 10 years, we aim to invest £3.6billion raised for good causes by National Lottery player to make a decisive difference for people, places and communities.
Preston City Council actively applies and prioritises the principles of Community Wealth Building wherever applicable and appropriate. Community Wealth Building is an approach which aims to ensure the economic system builds wealth and prosperity for everyone.
About Aardman
Aardman is an employee-owned company, based in Bristol (UK) and co-founded in 1976 by Peter Lord and David Sproxton. An independent, multi-Academy Award® and BAFTA® award winning studio, it produces feature films, series, advertising, games and interactive entertainment. Current animated productions include series 7 of Shaun the Sheep and a third series of The Very Small Creatures.
Its productions are global in appeal, novel, entertaining, brilliantly characterised and full of charm reflecting the unique talent, energy and personal commitment of the Aardman team. The studio’s work – which includes the creation of much-loved characters including Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Timmy Time and Morph- is often imitated, and yet the company continues to lead the field producing a rare brand of visually stunning, comedic content for cinema, broadcasters, digital platforms and live experiences around the world. Recent celebrated projects include the brand-new Wallace & Gromit film Vengeance Most Fowl which premiered on BBC One on Christmas Day 2024 and was released on Netflix globally on the 3rd of January 2025. The BAFTA® nominated feature film Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, Academy Award® nominated short film Robin Robin, International Emmy® award winning Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas, BAFTA® nominated preschool series The Very Small Creatures and the recent CGI comedy series for kids Lloyd of the Flies.
The studio runs the Aardman Academy, its world-class training facility delivering excellence in film and animation training and mentoring for students around the world. The Aardman Academy offers a variety of courses from intensive one-day workshops to its flagship seven-month In-Studio Stop Motion course. All courses are delivered by industry-leading tutors and mentors with decades of experience. The Aardman Academy is an integral part of the business, representing the studio’s inclusive ethos and commitment to nurturing the animation talent of the future.
In November 2018 it became an Employee-Owned Organisation, to ensure Aardman remains independent and to secure the creative legacy and culture of the company for many decades to come.
About Wallace & Gromit
Wallace and Gromit, Aardman’s most loved and iconic duo have been delighting family audiences around the world for 30 years. First hitting our screens in Nick Park’s Academy Award®-winning Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out (1989) the pair went on to star in three further half hour specials (Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers (1993), Wallace & Gromit: A Close Shave (1995) and Wallace & Gromit: A Matter of Loaf or Death (2009) and a feature length film Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005) and are internationally celebrated winning over 100 awards at festivals – including 3 Academy Awards® and 7 BAFTA® Awards.
A regular highlight of the primetime BBC schedules, especially during the festive season, they have become British national treasures and pop culture icons in their own right. The duo featured in their first augmented reality story The Big Fix Up, followed by the Emmy®-nominated VR experience, The Grand Getaway. The new feature length title Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, directed by Nick Park and Merlin Crossingham, premiered on BBC One on Christmas Day 2024 – the most-watched animation on British TV since records began, with 21.6 million views in 28 days – and was released on Netflix globally on the 3rd of January 2025.
With a permanent attraction at Blackpool Pleasure Beach with over 500,000 riders every year, over 1.7 million fans on social and over 102 million views on YouTube, these perennial characters continue to grow audiences across multiple platforms.
Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity is a national charity raising funds to improve the lives of sick children in hospitals and hospices throughout the UK, raising over £70 million since 1995.
The Grand Appeal, which has Wallace & Gromit spearheading the fundraising is the official Bristol Children’s Hospital charity. It started in 1995 with the single mission of raising £10 million for a new building, and 30 years later having generated over £90 million.
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The basic model of an autonomous intelligent assistant for visually impaired and blind patients was presented to Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation — Head of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko during his visit to Novosibirsk State University. The device is being developed using large language models and artificial intelligence technologies.
The idea of the development belongs to the Novosibirsk branch of the Federal State Autonomous Institution “National Medical Research Center “Microsurgery of the Eye” named after Academician S.N. Fedorov” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, which, together with scientists Research Center in the Field of Artificial Intelligence of NSU(NSU AI Center) creates a new device designed to make it easier for visually impaired and blind people to navigate in space using modern technologies.
As noted by the director of the Novosibirsk branch of the Scientific and Technical Complex “Microsurgery of the Eye”, professor, doctor of medical sciences Valery Chernykh, today there are various approaches related to the possibility of giving a blind person a chance of functional orientation in the surrounding space, his adaptation and rehabilitation with the possibility of actively and independently living a full life.
First of all, these are social and rehabilitation-educational programs that require quite large financial investments. In addition, over the past 20 years, scientists from various countries have been attempting to implant expensive and high-tech chips either into the retina or directly into the occipital part of the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for the function of vision. These are very complex and expensive operations with a high risk of complications and, unfortunately, with a fairly low percentage of effectiveness, since the results obtained do not last long. Several such operations have also been carried out in our country, the results of which cannot yet be considered satisfactory.
— Considering the active development of technologies related to the capabilities of artificial intelligence, the idea was born to use the auditory analyzer of the brain for human orientation in space. When a person reads a book or listens to an audio recording, certain images of objects, etc. are formed in his brain. If a visually impaired or blind patient is given the opportunity to determine the distance to an object (doorway, window, vehicle), its size, etc. through the auditory analyzer, this will certainly help him in real life and adaptation in the social environment. Considering the previous successful experience of joint work, we decided to join forces with scientists from the Research Center for Artificial Intelligence of the Novosibirsk State University in order to create such a technology that should be autonomous and not use the Internet, — said Valery Chernykh.
At the first stage, the developers create a prototype of the device and train the model in accordance with the tasks set, which is actively carried out by the formed working group, which includes scientists from the NSU AI Center and the Scientific and Technical Complex “Microsurgery of the Eye”.
— We use large language models to help this category of patients analyze the surrounding space — to create a guide for them that could give a concentrated verbal description of all objects in front of the user. The principle of this system is simple: a video camera will “see” instead of a person, the information from which will be sent to a portable computer, which will convert it into text. Then the text description is converted by a voice assistant and sent directly to the patient through headphones. This message provides the basic information that the user needs to know to navigate in space, — explained Alexey Okunev, head of the project at the NSU AI Center.
The device is developed using a multimodal language model, which allows it to already provide a fairly high-quality verbal description of surrounding rooms and objects. In the future, the user will be able to ask clarifying questions about the observed scene and receive detailed answers to them. This language model also perfectly recognizes texts, reads inscriptions, signs, obstacle warnings, etc.
Currently, a basic model has been created, a prototype of the device will be ready by the end of 2025. This is a compact wearable system consisting of a single-board 16-core computer placed in a shoulder bag, a video camera (for example, GoPro) and headphones. The device will be equipped with a battery, and all elements will be connected by wireless communication channels. The user will hold the video camera in his hand and point it in the desired direction. The total weight of the device with the battery will be about 1 kg.
According to the experts of the NSU Center for Information Technologies, it will take more than one year to develop the final product ready for replication, and now they are at the very start of the project. This concerns both the technical part and the training of artificial intelligence. After the prototype is created this year, long-term work will begin on setting up the device, setting modes, collecting a database and training AI.
The developers plan to teach the AI to prioritize information delivery, highlighting from the entire video sequence the details that are most important for the visually impaired person to orient themselves in space and assess the surrounding environment depending on the situation. It is assumed that the device will have several operating modes: a movement mode for moving in space, a reading mode for working with text documents, etc.
It will also be necessary to train a blind or visually impaired patient to work with the device in various modes and adapt it to new capabilities. As noted by the Scientific and Technical Complex “Microsurgery of the Eye”, at this stage, the work of not only ophthalmologists, but also specialists in the field of neurophysiology will be required. And the third task that will need to be solved is the need to create a specialized ophthalmological rehabilitation center to prepare blind patients directly for working with the device.
“The creation of such a device is of interest in the ophthalmological community as an extremely relevant and necessary area, the implementation of which will enable blind patients to adapt to the environment, which is a socially significant project,” concluded Valery Chernykh.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
South Africa is currently experiencing significant and ongoing challenges with widespread outbreaks of Foot and Mouth disease (FMD), affecting several provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Gauteng and, most recently, the Free State.
The resurgence of the disease has resulted in livestock movement restrictions and significantly impacted the country’s red meat trade on international markets.
In response to this escalating crisis, the Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), the University of Pretoria, and Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP), is hosting a national Foot and Mouth Disease Indaba.
The two-day event, starting Monday, 21 July 2025, will take place at the ARC-VIMP Campus in Roodeplaat, northeast of Pretoria.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and Deputy Minister Nokuzola Capa will lead the Indaba, which aims to bring together top veterinary scientists, agricultural experts, and key industry stakeholders, to deliberate on and develop long-term solutions to combat FMD.
“Having already inflicted significant damage to the multibillion-rand livestock sector, the disease continues to threaten South Africa’s broader economy. Therefore, the Indaba presents a vital opportunity to unite expertise and resources to effectively eradicate this devastating disease.
“The Indaba will convene a range of multidisciplinary specialists to develop a coordinated and comprehensive approach to controlling and ultimately eradicating foot and mouth disease,” the department said in a statement.
The key areas of discussion will include strengthening biosecurity measures at farm level, enhancing vaccination programmes, and reinforcing animal movement controls.
The Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council, emphasised its committed to identifying and implementing sustainable solutions to FMD.
The department added that the Indaba signifies a crucial advancement in the ongoing efforts to combat the disease.
“By cultivating strong partnerships between government entities, academic institutions and industry leaders, the Department of Agriculture is committed to developing precise and effective measures that will eradicate the disease and safeguard the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s agricultural sector.” – SAnews.gov.za
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Monsoon Session of Parliament, calling it a “true celebration of victory” and a moment of collective national pride. Addressing the media outside Parliament, the Prime Minister highlighted recent achievements across defence, science, economy, and digital governance, urging unity among lawmakers to strengthen the nation’s resolve.
Calling the monsoon a symbol of “renewal and rejuvenation,” PM Modi pointed to favourable weather conditions and record-high water reservoir levels—three times the ten-year average—as indicators of a strong agricultural and rural economic outlook.
“This Monsoon Session is a moment of great pride for the country,” he said, referring to the recent unfurling of the Indian tricolour aboard the International Space Station. He described the milestone as a unifying moment for both Houses of Parliament and an inspiration for India’s youth in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.
PM Modi praised the success of Operation Sindoor, India’s precision strike targeting terrorist camps. “Our armed forces achieved their mission with 100 percent success, neutralizing high-value targets within 22 minutes,” he said. He attributed this precision and efficiency to India’s growing defence self-reliance, highlighting global recognition of ‘Made in India’ military technology.
The Prime Minister called on Parliament to come together in a unified tribute to the operation, stating that such solidarity would boost defence sector innovation, manufacturing, and employment for India’s youth.
On the internal security front, PM Modi spoke about the decline of terrorism, Naxalism, and Maoism. He noted that many districts once dominated by insurgency have now transformed into “Green Growth Zones,” underscoring the growing influence of constitutional order over violence.
He also highlighted India’s rise from being among the “Fragile Five” economies in 2014 to being on the cusp of becoming the world’s third-largest economy. He noted that 250 million people have risen out of poverty during the past decade, and emphasized that inflation—currently around 2 percent—has stabilized the cost of living for citizens.
Turning to digital achievements, the Prime Minister lauded the widespread adoption of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which he described as a symbol of India’s leadership in the global fintech landscape. He said UPI has now become a recognized name worldwide.
Citing data from the International Labour Organization, PM Modi noted that more than 900 million Indians are now covered under social security. He also highlighted India’s successful eradication of trachoma, as declared by the World Health Organization, describing it as a key milestone in the nation’s public health journey.
Addressing the recent Pahalgam terror attack, PM Modi credited a united response by MPs across party lines for exposing Pakistan’s role in sponsoring terrorism at the global level. “This cross-party effort strengthened our diplomatic campaign and helped the world understand India’s position,” he said.
As the session got underway, the Prime Minister made a final appeal for unity among MPs. “While political opinions may vary, our intentions in matters of national interest must remain aligned,” he said. Modi urged all Members of Parliament to carry forward the spirit of “one voice” in championing India’s sovereignty, development, and aspirations.
Coldplay, Beyoncé, Oasis and Billie Eilish among worldwide stars performing more times in London than anywhere else in the world
Capital’s major arenas and stadiums welcoming more 3.6m fans over the summer, with fans travelling from across the world
London attracts 7.5m music fans each year, bringing in £2.7bn in revenue
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today celebrated the capital’s incredible summer of gigs that show why London is the undisputed capital of music.
This Friday, Oasis will become the latest act this year to perform, with more concerts in London than anywhere else in the world. It follows:
Beyoncé performing six times at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in June;
Billie Eilish concluding a six-date run at The O2 last week;
And Usher performing a 10-night residency at The O2 earlier this year.
Next month Coldplay will also start a record run of 10 dates at Wembley Stadium.
Other headlines from the capital’s huge summer of music include Tottenham Hotspur Stadium welcoming Stray Kids and Wembley Stadium hosting BLACKPINK for their only UK performances. BST Hyde Park welcomed more than 500,000 people across its eight sold-out shows, with Noah Kahan playing his largest headline show to date and Zach Bryan and Sabrina Carpenter playing their biggest ever UK shows.
These world-leading runs from global stars show why London welcomes millions of music fans from across the world. UK Music estimates that 7.5m music tourists attended concerts and festivals in London last year, accounting for £2.7bn of the country’s total £10bn revenue.
Recent analysis of concert ticket sales by Live Nation has revealed that 61 per of fans have travelled from across the UK to come to London for gigs so far this summer, with 16 per cent from abroad. Figures from AEG Europe show that the O2 – the world’s busiest live entertainment arena – is on track for its biggest year yet, with 1.4m tickets sold already this year.
London’s 179 grassroots music venues are also hosting a huge range of performances this summer, providing a stage for the next generation of talent and boosting the capital’s economy and nightlife. In the last year, grassroots venues welcomed more than 4.2m audience members, hosted performances by more than 328,000 artists, employed nearly 7,000 people and contributed £313m to the economy.
In May, London united to champion the incredible impact of the capital’s grassroots music scene with the first ever special Grassroots Music Tube Map, which celebrates all aspects of the capital’s music scene and connects Londoners and visitors with grassroots gigs. The Mayor also continues to encourage councils and businesses to offer more al fresco dining and late-night openings this summer to boost our economy and tourism and offer even more hospitality options for those enjoying the fantastic gigs in our capital.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This summer, some of the world’s biggest music stars are performing more times in London than anywhere else – showing why we are the undisputed capital of music. Our world-renowned venues are drawing more than 3.6m people to enjoy unforgettable experiences and boost our hospitality industry, from Beyoncé’s exclusive performances at the Tottenham Stadium and Billie Eilish’s six-night run at the O2 to Coldplay’s upcoming dates at Wembley Stadium. At the same time, our incredible grassroots venues continue to provide a wide range of performances every night of the week for music fans to enjoy. From the very best stadium and festival headliners to upcoming stars at grassroots venues, I’m proud that London’s music scene is leading the way as we continue to build a better London for everyone.”
Justine Simons OBE, London’s Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries, said: “From tens of thousands singing along to their favourite chorus to intimate crowds discovering a new act for the very first time, music has incredible power to bring people together. Nowhere else is that shown more clearly than in London where this summer music-fans can unite to enjoy so many genres of music across a huge variety of venues. There really is something for everyone!”
Tom Kiehl, Chief Executive of UK Music, said: “London is a global superpower when it comes to the strength and incredibly diversity of our music industry which attracts talent from across the world and draws millions of visitors to the capital. Our latest UK Music figures show that a total of 7.5 million domestic and overseas music tourists came to London in 2024 and spent £2.7 billion enjoying stadium-filling acts like Taylor Swift, festivals like All Points East and British Summer Time and our iconic grassroots venues. The Oasis reunion and Beyoncé tour means that London has another spectacular summer lined up for music fans who deliver a tremendous boost for the capital’s economy by spending in the city’s restaurants, bars and shops to make the most of all that London has to offer. It’s vital that we all continue to celebrate and support the ecosystem that makes up the city’s music scene to deliver jobs, growth and unforgettable experiences for millions of people.”
John Langford, Chief Operating Officer of AEG Europe, said: “We’re experiencing another phenomenal year of success across our portfolio of iconic venues and festivals. In just the first half of this year alone, The O2 arena has sold over 1.4 million tickets and hosted 115 performances — testament to London’s status as the global capital of live music. From legendary, sold-out headliners like Billie Eilish to emerging voices taking the stage for the first time – 25 debut artists in total already – our line-up has celebrated the full spectrum of talent and genres, from rock and pop to metal and beyond. The energy, diversity, and creativity on display truly reflect the spirit of London. As we celebrate The O2’s 18th anniversary and top the Billboard mid-year charts for both shows and attendance, it’s clear: London is not just participating in the global music scene — it’s leading it.”
Denis Desmond, Chairman of Live Nation UK & Ireland, said: “This year marks Live Nation’s busiest summer season ever in the UK with over two million attendees in London alone. The growing demand for events is evident with fans continuing to value live experiences – that feeling of seeing your favourite artist in a crowd alongside 90,000 people is unlike anything else. This summer we’re particularly pleased to see artists that we’ve worked with since the beginning of their careers, like Beyonce, Dua Lipa, Imagine Dragons, Kendrick Lamar, Lana Del Rey, Post Malone, Guns N Roses, and Coldplay all performing at stadium level.”
James Barton, co-founder of Superstruct – the London-based live entertainment group behind events including Field Day, Mighty Hoopla and Cross The Tracks – said: “London remains the most significant and influential music city in Europe with its diversity giving rise to an unprecedented range of festivals catering to different musical tastes. That gives incredible opportunities for artists and music fans and has led to the development of a rich ecosystem of suppliers and technical expertise, supporting thousands of jobs.”
Kate Nicholls, Chair of UK Hospitality, said: “This year’s summer of music shows that London is the best place in the world to see your favourite musicians and bands, with millions flocking to shows across the capital. The additional visits to pubs, bars and restaurants from show-goers will deliver a huge boost to hospitality businesses and shows the impact live music can have on the wider economy.”
Porirua City Council is set to create a memorial for more than 1800 former patients of the local hospital buried in unmarked graves. But Pacific leaders are asking to be “meaningfully involved” in the process, including incorporating prayer, language, and ceremonial practices.
More than 50 people gathered at Porirua Cemetery last month after the council’s plans became public, many of whom are descendants of those buried without headstones.
Cemeteries Manager Daniel Chrisp said it was encouraging to see families engaging with the project.
Chrisp’s team has placed 99 pegs to mark the graves of families who have come forward so far. One attendee told him that it was deeply moving to photograph the site where two relatives were buried.
“It’s fantastic that we’ve got to this point, having the descendants of those in unmarked graves encouraged to be involved,” he said.
“These plots represent mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children and other relatives, so it’s important to a lot of people.”
The Porirua Lunatic Asylum, which later became Porirua Hospital, operated from 1887 until the 1990s. At its peak in the 1960s, it was one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest hospitals, housing more than 2000 patients and staff.
As part of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, the government has established a national fund for headstones for unmarked graves.
Porirua City Council has applied for $200,000 to install a memorial that will list every known name.
Some pegs that mark the resting places of former patients buried in unmarked graves at Porirua Cemetery. Image: Porirua Council/RNZ/LDR
Criticism over lack of Pacific consultation Some Pacific community leaders say they were never consulted, despite Pacific people among the deceased.
Porirua Cook Islands Association chairperson Teurukura Tia Kekena said this was the first she had heard of the project, and she was concerned Pacific communities had not been included in conversations so far.
“If there was any unmarked grave and the Porirua City Council is aware of the names, I would have thought they would have contacted the ethnic groups these people belonged to,” she said.
“From a Cook Islands point of view, we need to acknowledge these people. They need to be fully acknowledged.”
Kekena learned about the project only after being contacted by a reporter, despite the council’s ongoing efforts to identify names and place markers for families who have come forward.
The council’s application for funding is part of its response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry.
A photograph shows Porirua Hospital in the early 1900s. Image: Porirua City Council/LDR
Kekena said it was important how the council managed the memorial, adding that it mattered deeply for Cook Islands families and the wider Pacific community, especially those with relatives buried at the site.
Reflect Pacific values She believed that a proper memorial should reflect Pacific values, particularly the importance of faith, family, and cultural protocol.
“It’s huge. It’s connecting us to these people,” she said. “Just thinking about it is getting me emotional.
“Like I said, the Pākehā way of acknowledging is totally different from our way. When we acknowledge, when we go for an unveiling, it’s about family. It’s about family. It’s about family honouring the person that had passed.
“And we do it in a way that we have a service at the graveside with the orometua [minister] present. Yeah, unveil the stone by the family, by the immediate family, if there were any here at that time.”
She also underscored the connection between remembering the deceased and healing intergenerational trauma, particularly given the site’s history with mental health.
Healing the trauma “It helps a lot. It’s a way of healing the trauma. I don’t know how these people came to be buried in an unmarked grave, but to me, it’s like they were just put there and forgotten about.
“I wouldn’t like to have my family buried in a place and be forgotten.”
Kekena urged the council to work closely with the Cook Islands community moving forward and said she would bring the matter back to her association to raise awareness and check possible connections between local families and the names identified.
Yvonne Underhill‑Sem, a Cook Islands community leader and professor of Pacific Studies at the University of Auckland, said the memorial had emotional significance, noting her personal connection to Whenua Tapu as a Porirua native.
“In terms of our Pacific understandings of ancestry, everybody who passes away is still part of our whānau. The fact that we don’t know who they are is unsettling,” she said.
“It would be a real relief to the families involved and to the generations that follow to have those graves named.”
Council reponse A Porirua City Council spokesperson said they had been actively sharing the list of names with the public and encouraged all communities — including Pacific groups, genealogists, and local iwi — to help spread the word.
So far, 99 families have come forward.
“We would encourage any networks such as Pacific, genealogists and local iwi to share the list around for members of the public to get in touch,” the spokesperson said.
Porirua councillors Izzy Ford and Moze Galo say the memorial must reflect Pacific values. Image: Porirua Council/RNZ/LDR
Porirua councillors Izzy Ford and Moze Galo, two of the three Pacific members on the council, said Pacific families must be central to the memorial process. Ford said burial sites carried deep cultural weight for Pacific communities.
“We know that burial sites are more than just places of rest, they are sacred spaces that hold our stories, our ancestry and dignity — they are our connection to those who came before us.”
She said public notices and websites were not enough.
“If we are serious about finding the families of those buried in unmarked graves here in Porirua, we have to go beyond public notices and websites.”
Funding limited Ford said government funding would be limited, and the council must work with trusted Pacific networks to reach families.
“It means partnering with groups who carry trust in our community . . . Pacific churches, elders, and organisations, communicating in our languages through Pacific radio, social media, community events, churches, and health providers.”
Galo agreed and said the memorial must reflect Pacific values in both design and feeling.
“It should feel warm, colourful, spiritual, and welcoming. Include Pacific designs, carvings, and symbols . . . there should be room for prayer, music, and quiet reflection,” he said.
“Being seen and heard brings healing, honour, and helps restore our connection to our ancestors. It reminds our families that we belong, that our history matters, and that our voice is valued in this space.”
Galo said the work must continue beyond the unveiling.
“Community involvement shouldn’t stop after the memorial is built, we should have a role in how it’s maintained and used in the future.
“These were real people, with families, love, and lives that mattered. Some were buried without names, without ceremony, and that left a deep pain. Honouring them now is a step toward healing, and a way of saying, you were never forgotten.”
Members of the public who recognise a family name on the list are encouraged to get in touch by emailing cemeteries@poriruacity.govt.nz.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air. Asia Pacific Report is a partner in the project.
The Love Your Community roadshow will be visiting Pendeford Dovecotes TMO, Ryefield, on Wednesday 30 July, the Cannock Road Gurdwara on Thursday 7 August, Lanesfield Church on Wednesday 13 August, and St Joseph’s Church, Coalway Road, on Wednesday 20 August. Each fun day will run from 11am to 3pm and everyone is welcome.
Partners including the City of Wolverhampton Council, community organisations and charities, the police and other service providers will be on hand to provide a day of fun activities, wellbeing and practical support for people of all ages across 4 distinct zones.
The Kids and Family Zone will include a bouncy castle and physical play, face painting, henna art and craft activities, while the Wellbeing Zone will offer a calm and supportive environment providing information and advice from partners like Rethink and the NHS as well as mindfulness sessions and journalling activities designed to promote self care and reflection.
Elsewhere, the Advice and Support Zone will offer residents financial tips, energy efficiency guidance and support with managing household budgets along with gardening workshops to encourage sustainable living and community greening, and the Sports and Physical Activity Zone will feature kickabouts with Wolves Foundation, calisthenics demonstrations, interactive sessions led by WV Active and appearances by Wolves mascots Wolfie and Wendy.
Visitors will also be encouraged to contribute to the Love Your Community Wall, sharing what they value about their neighbourhood, contributing ideas for local improvements, and making a pledge to support positive change in their community.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “These Love Your Community events will bring residents together for fun, connection, and support. They are a great chance for people to find out more about what is going on locally, discover services that can make their lives easier, and share their ideas to improve their neighbourhood.
“The Love Your Community initiative is designed to empower and encourage people to take pride in their local area through community events, shared spaces, support networks and inclusive activities.
“This is important because we know that, when residents feel seen, heard, and included, their neighbourhoods flourish – and so does our city. So please come along, join the fun, and help shape the future of your community.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
NT Police have arrested a 42-year-old male following a siege on Friday afternoon in Moulden.
Around 6:10pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a 72-year-old male had allegedly been assaulted with a machete at a unit complex on Moulden Terrace.
It is alleged that the victim approached his neighbour’s unit to complain about loud music and a confrontation ensued, during which the male assaulted the victim whilst armed with a machete.
Police attended, and the victim was conveyed to Palmerston Regional Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries to his hands and shoulder.
The alleged offender retreated into his unit and Police negotiators and Territory Response Group were deployed to the scene. The male later surrendered without incident.
He has since been charged with Recklessly endangering serious harm and Unlawfully causing serious harm and has been remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court 22 July 2025.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500072953. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
GAZA, July 21 (Xinhua) — At least 14 Palestinians, including a civil defense worker, were killed Sunday in an Israeli airstrike on a college building west of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Palestinian sources said.
Israeli warplanes fired at least one missile at a building housing displaced people in the al-Mawasi area west of Khan Younis, witnesses said.
Doctors told Xinhua that all the bodies found, as well as the wounded, were taken to hospitals.
The airstrike killed civil defense officer Hani al-Dabour and wounded several members of his team, according to a local government statement. The government called on the international community to fulfill its obligations to “stop Israel’s crimes and ensure full protection for the work crews.”
In a statement on Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the paratroopers’ brigade, under the command of the 36th Division, had completed its mission in the Khan Yunis area of the Gaza Strip.
“During the operation, the troops eliminated the terrorists in hand-to-hand combat and in cooperation with the Israeli Air Force. They destroyed the terrorists’ infrastructure, including military installations, weapons and explosives depots,” the statement said.
Israel resumed military operations in the Gaza Strip on March 18. Since then, at least 8,066 Palestinians have been killed and 28,939 wounded. The total number of deaths since October 2023 has reached 58,895, with 140,980 injured, the enclave’s health authorities said on Sunday. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
On July 21, Mikhail Mishustin will inspect the new airport terminal complex under construction at the international airport in Blagoveshchensk, the automobile checkpoint across the state border in Kani-Kurgan, and the customs and logistics terminal “Kani-Kurgan”. The Prime Minister’s program also includes a visit to a social and cultural facility.
Mikhail Mishustin will meet with the Governor of the Amur Region Vasily Orlov.
The Minister of Transport Andrei Nikitin and the Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Aleksei Chekunkov will take part in the events of the trip.
On July 22, the Prime Minister will hold a meeting in Chita on the issue of “Development of grain exports”. Mikhail Mishustin will also visit the Zabaikalsky Krai Perinatal Center.
The Prime Minister’s schedule includes a meeting with the Governor of the Zabaikalsky Krai, Alexander Osipov.
The events of the trip will be attended by the Minister of Agriculture Oksana Lut, the Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko, the Minister of Transport Andrei Nikitin, and the Minister for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic Alexei Chekunkov.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
A new medical school will be established at the University of Waikato as part of the Government’s plan to build a stronger health workforce, Health Minister Simeon Brown and Universities Minister Dr Shane Reti say.
“Cabinet has approved the business case for the new school, which will have a strong focus on primary care and rural health,” Mr Brown says.
“With $82.85 million in Government funding and over $150 million from the University, supported by philanthropic investment, this is a substantial commitment to education and regional development in the Waikato.
“Today’s decision will enable the University of Waikato to begin construction on new teaching facilities later this year and start planning for clinical placements, while giving more students the opportunity to study medicine in New Zealand.”
The school will offer a graduate-entry programme, providing a flexible new pathway into medicine that helps attract a broader range of students and build a stronger, more diverse workforce.
“It’s an innovative model that supports our focus on strengthening primary care, making it easier for people to see their doctor – helping Kiwis stay well and out of hospital.
“It also builds on the University’s recent additions of nursing, pharmacy, and midwifery programmes, demonstrating a strong and growing commitment to developing New Zealand’s health workforce.”
A full cost-benefit analysis was presented to Cabinet before any proposal was finalised, as part of the National – ACT coalition agreement.
Mr Brown says the school builds on the Government’s record investment in the health system and workforce.
“Today’s announcement adds 120 doctor training places each year, starting in 2028 – a significant boost to our long-term pipeline of homegrown medical workforce.
“This is on top of the 100 additional medical training places that are being added over the term of this Government across the University of Auckland and University of Otago.”
Dr Reti says the decision represents a significant step forward for both the University of Waikato and the wider region.
“This is a major milestone for the University and a real boost for tertiary education in the Waikato.
“It strengthens the University’s position as a leader in education, training, and research, and creates new academic and economic opportunities for Hamilton, the Waikato, and rural communities.
“By expanding access to medical training, we’re creating new opportunities for students from across the region and beyond, while also helping to future-proof the local workforce.
“This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking initiative this Government wants to see from our universities – investing in regional growth, building local capability, and delivering on the needs of rural communities.”
Associate Health Minister David Seymour has today announced more clear expectations for Pharmac to innovate and optimise to further build on expectations set last year; to deliver the medicines and medical technology that Kiwis need.
“Increasing medicines access is one of my greatest priorities. For many New Zealanders, funding for pharmaceuticals is life or death, or the difference between a life of pain and suffering or living freely,” Mr Seymour says.
Since my last letter of expectations Pharmac has:
Improved overall consultation
Added additional consultation to the annual tender process
Changed funding criteria based on public feedback, such as the decision to fund two types of oestradiol patches
Appointed Natalie McMurtry as the incoming Chief Executive to cement positive change, and continue to move towards a more transparent, inclusive, and people-focused organisation
Conducted, and published a report on, the Consumer Engagement Workshop to help reset the Patient-Pharmac relationship
Appointed a Consumer Working Group to help reset the Patient-Pharmac relationship
Funded access to 66 additional medicines using the Government’s $604 million budget boost over four years which will benefit over 200,000 New Zealanders
“This is a good start. My letter of expectations for this year makes it very clear that there is still more work to be done. I expect this positive culture shift to continue,” Mr Seymour says.
“Pharmac must modernise, or it will fall behind. It needs to adopt faster, smarter processes and explore the use of AI to lift performance.”
My expectations for this year are that Pharmac should:
Explore how it can optimise medicines assessment and procurement processes to make them more efficient
Explore ways to utilise AI to make their processes more efficient
Consider the fiscal impacts to the government of funding medicines and medical devices, including costs of societal impacts of funding or not funding a medicine or medical device
Be more proactive in engaging with stakeholders
Look for new and additional funding opportunities for medicines and medical devices
Publish measurable performance metrics and timely decisions to increase transparency
Continue to involve patients early in the process and engage with them meaningfully
“We’re committed to ensuring that the regulatory system for pharmaceuticals is not unreasonably holding back access. It will lead to more Kiwis being able to access the medicines they need to live a fulfilling life,” Mr Seymour says.
“I am looking forward to continuing to work with Pharmac as we continue to ensure Kiwis get timely access to medicines and medical devices.”
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Police in northwestern China have arrested six suspects after more than 200 children were found to have high levels of lead in their blood at a privately run kindergarten, authorities said.
Seventeen officials have also been placed under disciplinary investigation, and 10 others, including senior health and education officials in Tianshui city and its Maiji district, Gansu province, face formal accountability procedures, according to a report released on Sunday.
Investigators found the lead exposure came from food prepared at the Peixin Kindergarten, not from environmental contamination. Tests of air, water and soil in the area found no lead pollution.
The arrests come after eight people were initially held for questioning earlier this month while investigations were ongoing. Among those detained were cooks, management and an investor at the kindergarten.
On Sunday, officials revealed in a report that six had been arrested on suspicion of producing toxic and harmful food.
The case came to light on July 1, when market regulators and police in Maiji district received reports of abnormal blood lead levels among children at Peixin. All 251 children enrolled were examined, and 233 were found to have elevated lead levels. At least 201 children were hospitalized for treatment.
The incident has sparked widespread concern due to the harmful effects of long-term lead exposure on children. The World Health Organization lists lead among the top 10 toxic substances of public health concern.
A joint investigation team tested 232 samples, including raw materials, cooked food and water from Peixin. Authorities found that the kindergarten’s management had instructed staff to add brightly colored but inedible industrial pigments to foods such as corn rolls and jujube cakes (steamed buns), to make them look more appealing to children and parents.
Two samples from Peixin — a tricolor red date sponge cake served at breakfast and a corn roll with sausage served at dinner — failed to meet food safety standards. The samples contained lead levels of 1,052 milligrams per kilogram and 1,340 milligrams per kilogram, respectively, far above the national limit of 0.5 milligram per kilogram.
Authorities said the kindergarten was operating without a license and that local education and market supervision departments failed to carry out oversight. Some officials are suspected of accepting bribes and favors from the kindergarten’s investor. Disciplinary and criminal investigations have been launched against officials, including the head of the provincial health commission and the mayor of Tianshui.
Health authorities said all affected children received treatment, with nearly all now discharged after their blood lead levels dropped by around 40 percent on average. The government is covering medical costs and has set up a monitoring program to track the children’s recovery.
The Gansu provincial government issued a public apology, pledging “zero tolerance” for regulatory failures and promising to strengthen food safety and health oversight in schools across the province.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Global pharma giants underscore local partnerships, R&D at China supply chain expo
From showcasing their latest products to forging local partnerships, global pharmaceutical companies have emphasized local research and development (R&D) and partnerships at the third China International Supply Chain Expo as they seek to strengthen their presence in one of their largest markets.
The five-day expo highlights China’s importance to multinational firms as both a major market and a hub for global innovation, advanced manufacturing and resilient supply chains.
“China is going to be the world’s largest healthcare market and a crucial source of innovation,” said Alex Gu, president of Medtronic Greater China, adding that China is playing an increasingly important role in the global healthcare industrial chain.
In 2024, an electric surgical stapler developed by the U.S. company transitioned from research and development to mass production in China and is now used at over 500 hospitals nationwide. It has also been exported to other markets.
Deep supply chain collaboration with local partners is vital and Medtronic now has nearly 7,000 suppliers in China.
During the expo, the company launched a new partnership to build an AI-powered diagnostic and treatment system for aortic disease and structural heart disease. This is part of a broader trend in the pharmaceutical industry to use AI to drive R&D and improve disease diagnosis and treatment.
At the expo, French drugmaker Sanofi exhibited its ecosystem, as well as its latest products for conditions such as immunological, cardiovascular, metabolic and other diseases.
Local R&D plays a key role in Sanofi’s development. Sanofi now operates R&D centers in cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, and its Chinese research staff have been deeply involved in over 90 percent of its global co-development projects, including 12 potential blockbuster drugs.
For Sanofi, the supply chain expo serves as a platform not only to showcase its products but also to build collaborations.
“Here, we explore innovative collaborations with our global partners, from R&D to production and patient accessibility enhancement, and share the latest results of localized practices,” said Wayne Shi, president of Sanofi Greater China. Sanofi will continue to support the Healthy China initiative with innovative drugs and vaccines, Shi said.
Meanwhile, Novo Nordisk announced new partnerships with local manufacturing, logistics and tech firms at the expo, as part of its latest efforts to deepen local industrial chain cooperation.
Novo Nordisk has continued to increase its investment in China, enhancing its presence throughout the industry chain to better serve patients in China. To date, the company has introduced 22 innovative drugs and 11 innovative injection devices in China for the treatment of diabetes, obesity and rare diseases.
As a participant in all three editions of the supply chain expo, Novo Nordisk is joining more industrial chain partners this year to build a comprehensive health management ecosystem that drives chronic disease management, said Christine Zhou, president of Novo Nordisk Region China.
Running from Wednesday to Sunday, the supply chain expo served as a key platform for multinational firms to strengthen collaboration with Chinese partners amid global economic uncertainties.
The event has attracted 651 companies and institutions from 75 countries and regions. Overseas exhibitors account for 35 percent, a three-percentage-point increase from last year.
Patient advocate, Dr Malcolm Mulholland, has been appointed Chair of the new Consumer and Patient Working Group that will help Pharmac reset how it works with consumers.
Pharmac has committed to a 12-month reset programme to become a more outward-focussed and transparent organisation. This is in response to multiple external reviews over the last few years which sought transformational change in Pharmac.
The new working group, made up of the consumer and patient community, will decide what Pharmac focuses on for the reset programme, taking a hands-on role in the delivery of the work to ensure it reflects consumers’ needs, values, and perspectives.
Acting Pharmac Chief Executive, Brendan Boyle, said Dr Mulholland was selected by the patient advocacy community to lead the group, and brings a lot of mana to the role.
“We are grateful that Malcolm, and the other nine members of the working group, have offered to partner with us to help us get the Pharmac reset work right.”
Dr Mulholland said, “We’ve waited a long time for this opportunity. The work that Pharmac does is vitally important for the health of patients and their families, and this is why getting Pharmac to work as well as it can, will be the focus of the working group.”
The working group had their first meeting on Monday 21 July at the Pharmac offices in Wellington. They finalised the group’s terms of reference, confirmed the approach for the reset programme, and agreed the first set of actions to focus on.
The consumer and patient working group members are:
Dr Malcolm Mulholland MNZM – Patient Voice Aotearoa
Libby Burgess MNZM – Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
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NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga (June 24, 2025) U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Sean Foley, center, Critical Care Physician with Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25), and U.S. Navy Lt. Brittany Debow, left, Critical Care Nurse with PP-25, assist Dr. Richard Taumoepeau, a local physician, right, during an ultrasound-guided thoracentesis on a local patient at Vaiola Hospital as part of PP-25 in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, June 24, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Courtesy Asset/Released)
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Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
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NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga (June 24, 2025) U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Sean Foley, right, Critical Care Physician with Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25), and U.S. Navy Lt. Brittany Debow, left, Critical Care Nurse with PP-25, assist Dr. Richard Taumoepeau, a local physician, center, during an ultrasound-guided thoracentesis on a local patient at Vaiola Hospital as part of PP-25 in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, June 24, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Courtesy Asset/Released)
Date Taken:
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Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga — During their stop in the Kingdom of Tonga, the Pacific Partnership 2025 (PP-25) medical team, consisting of U.S. Navy, Army, Public Health Service and Tongan Ministry of Health personnel, conducted over 30 community health engagements in the fields of One Health, cardiology, critical care medicine, endocrinology, optometry, clinical pharmacy, veterinary medicine, public health, nursing, prenatal care and nutrition between June 18 and June 28, 2025.
The PP-25 medical team also featured several professors, students, and alumni from the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences (USUHS), located in Bethesda, Maryland, who worked together to engage in multiple health engagements and training workshops as part of the PP-25 mission.
USUHS Graduate School of Nursing (GSN) Professor and Alumni U.S. Navy Cmdr. Samantha Jennings, stationed at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Bremerton, utilized her skills as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) to support the PP-25 Tonga mission stop to train and assist local health care workers at Vaiola Hospital and Mu’a Health Centre in delivering health consultations to numerous patients from across the island. Jennings also served as faculty supervisor to Army Maj. Tiffany Wilson, a dual track nursing student.
While deployed in support of the PP-25 Tonga mission as a dual track USUHS FNP/WHNP student, Wilson worked as part of a team with U.S. Navy Cmdr. Cheryl Castro, midwife with PP-25, and Hospitalman Nicole Abreu, to deliver prenatal health care to local patients at the Vaiola Hospital and alongside Jennings at Mu’a Health Centre to issue several health consultations to local patients with diverse needs. While garnering experience in delivering health care to patients in resource limited environments, Wilson’s efforts also alleviated the operational strain of sourcing a FNP at the Military Treatment Facility level.
Additionally, Lt. Cmdr. Sean Foley, USUHS School of Medicine assistant professor applied his knowledge and teaching expertise as a deployed critical care physician with PP-25, to assist and guide multiple Tongan registrar physicians at Vaiola Hospital on medical procedures. Foley worked closely with Dr. Richard Taumoepeau, a Tongan physician, in performing ultrasound-guided thoracenteses, a procedure designed to remove fluid buildup in the lungs to restore their normal function, on six local patients.
Lt. William Douthitt, a USUHS dual master’s degree holder in School of Medicine and Public Health, applied his expertise and skills as a preventive medicine physician to lead a multidisciplinary foodborne illness tabletop exercise at Vaiola Hospital. Douthitt’s tabletop exercise trained eight local health care officials in strengthening and building upon current public health & communicable disease infrastructure to better respond to disease outbreaks.
USUHS alumnus, Lt. Louis Pingotti, Doctor of Nursing Practice, medical lead for the PP-25 Tonga mission, oversaw the planning and execution of all medical operations. It was through Pingotti’s consolidated efforts that his fellow USUHS alumni and peers were able to administer a successful conclusion to the PP-25 Tonga mission stop.
Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 21, 2025.
What’s the difference between sperm and semen? And can pre-ejaculate get you pregnant? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Theresa Larkin, Associate Professor of Medical Sciences, University of Wollongong priya kunkayan/Getty Semen, sperm, spunk, cum, ejaculate, pre-cum, seminal fluid. These are just some of the many words we use to describe what comes out of an erect penis. Some of these terms can be used interchangeably,
What happens if I go over or under on my NDIS plan? And what do shorter funding periods mean for me? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Helen Dickinson, Professor, Public Service Research, UNSW Sydney The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is undergoing another round of major reforms. One key change relates to the funding periods in which participants are allowed to spend their budgets. While these aim to improve the scheme’s sustainability, they
Opera Australia gives us a rocking Carmen for the post-#metoo era Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ruben Perez-Hidalgo, Lecturer in Spanish Studies, University of Sydney Keith Saunders/Opera Australia The story of Carmen, in the 19th century opera by French composer George Bizet, is, at its simplest, the story of a developing tension between Carmen, a stereotypically racialised woman attempting to break free from
New study peers beneath the skin of iconic lizards to find ‘chainmail’ bone plates – and lots of them Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Roy Ebel, PhD Candidate in Evolutionary Biology, Museums Victoria Research Institute Radiodensity heatmap of emerald tree monitors. Roy Ebel Monitor lizards, also known in Australia as goannas, are some of the most iconic reptiles on the continent. Their lineage not only survived the mass extinction that ended
Cook Islanders flock from outer islands for 60th anniversary celebrations By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist The Cook Islands’ outer islands, or Pa Enua, are emptying as people make the pilgrimage to Rarotonga for constitution celebrations. This year is particularly significant, August 4 marks 60 years of the Cook Islands being in free association with New Zealand. Cook Islands Secretary of Culture Emile Kairua said
Why has a bill to relax foreign investment rules had so little scrutiny? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane Kelsey, Emeritus Professor of Law, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images While public attention has been focused on the domestic fast-track consenting process for infrastructure and mining, Associate Minister of Finance David Seymour has been pushing through another fast-track process – this time for
Federal election feel like ages ago? Parliament is now back. Here’s your political refresher Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jill Sheppard, Senior Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University Tracey Nearmy/Getty Despite many pre-election predictions, the 48th Australian parliament looks quite similar to the 47th. The Labor Party has greater representation than before: 94 Members of the House of Representatives (up from 77)
Federal election feel like ages ago? Parliament is now back. Here’s your political refresher Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jill Sheppard, Senior Lecturer, School of Politics and International Relations, Australian National University Tracey Nearmy/Getty Despite many pre-election predictions, the 48th Australian parliament looks quite similar to the 47th. The Labor Party has greater representation than before: 94 Members of the House of Representatives (up from 77)
Is spinal cord stimulation safe? Does it work? Here’s what you need to know if you have back pain Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Caitlin Jones, Postdoctoral Research Associate in Musculoskeletal Health, University of Sydney AsiaVision/Getty Spinal cord stimulators are electrical devices that are surgically implanted in the body to treat long-term pain. They have a battery pack and leads that deliver electrical impulses directly to the spinal cord. The devices
Is spinal cord stimulation safe? Does it work? Here’s what you need to know if you have back pain Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Caitlin Jones, Postdoctoral Research Associate in Musculoskeletal Health, University of Sydney AsiaVision/Getty Spinal cord stimulators are electrical devices that are surgically implanted in the body to treat long-term pain. They have a battery pack and leads that deliver electrical impulses directly to the spinal cord. The devices
Hold up, humans. Ants figured out medicine, farming and engineering long before we did Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tanya Latty, Associate Professor in Entomology, University of Sydney Tambon Nong Chaeng/Pexels Think back to a time you helped someone move a heavy object, such as a couch. While at first the task may have appeared simple, it actually required a suite of advanced behaviours. The job
Hold up, humans. Ants figured out medicine, farming and engineering long before we did Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tanya Latty, Associate Professor in Entomology, University of Sydney Tambon Nong Chaeng/Pexels Think back to a time you helped someone move a heavy object, such as a couch. While at first the task may have appeared simple, it actually required a suite of advanced behaviours. The job
Does play belong in primary school? New research suggests teachers are not sure Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katy Meeuwissen, Lecturer in Early Childhood and Primary Education, University of Canberra Jon Challicom/ Getty Images Play is one of the most important parts of early childhood education in Australia. We know children learn about the world through play and it helps them build creativity and independence.
Does play belong in primary school? New research suggests teachers are not sure Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katy Meeuwissen, Lecturer in Early Childhood and Primary Education, University of Canberra Jon Challicom/ Getty Images Play is one of the most important parts of early childhood education in Australia. We know children learn about the world through play and it helps them build creativity and independence.
The first video of Earth’s surface lurching sideways in an earthquake offers new insights into this force of nature Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jesse Kearse, Postdoctoral Researcher, Geophysics, Kyoto University Sai Aung MAIN/AFP via Getty Images During the devastating magnitude 7.7 Myanmar earthquake on March 28 this year, a CCTV camera captured the moment the plate boundary moved, providing the first direct visual evidence of plate tectonics in action. Tectonic
After yet another election, Tasmanians are left wondering what the point of it was Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robert Hortle, Deputy Director, Tasmanian Policy Exchange, University of Tasmania When the results firmed up a few hours after polling closed on Saturday, many Tasmanians would have been wondering, “what was the point of all that?”. A state election only 16 months after the last one looks
While these aim to improve the scheme’s sustainability, they risk making an already complex system even harder to navigate.
A common question participants ask is: what happens if they overspend or underspend on their NDIS budgets?
There isn’t a simple answer. But let’s unpack the components of budgets and set out some practical tips for NDIS participants.
What is driving this round of NDIS reforms?
Concerns about the growing NDIS budget prompted the government to limit annual growth to a target of 8% a year by mid-2026.
One cost pressure the government has identified is intra-plan inflation. This happens when NDIS participants spend their budget before the end of their plan, meaning they need to ask for extra funding within their plan timeframe.
In the 12 months to February 2024, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) – the body responsible for the NDIS – estimated intra-plan inflation costs more than A$3.3 billion. Around 15% of participants spend their budget before the end of their plan.
Several changes are now in place to address this.
What causes plans to be overspent (or underspent)?
Overspending occurs when a participant runs out of funding before the end of their plan period.
This can happen when a participant receives a plan that is insufficient to meet their needs, which is more common with first plans.
It can also occur when a participant has a change in circumstances which means their support needs change, so they increase their spending before their plan can be reviewed.
In both circumstances, participants must request additional funding so they can keep receiving supports.
This can occur because of confusion over what is funded and how funds can be spent.
But it can also be because of a lack of appropriate services near where the participant lives.
Research shows Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with psychosocial disability (from mental health issues such as schizophrenia or post-traumatic stress disorder) and people living in rural and remote areas are more likely to underspend.
What an NDIS plan includes
Each NDIS plan includes a total budget amount, which is the amount of funding allocated for all supports expected to last for the full duration of their plan.
But this doesn’t mean participants can use this budget in whatever way they want.
Participant spending needs to meet a set of criteria and can only be spent in the way the NDIA describes.
NDIS supports are provided in plans using four support categories:
core supports – help with everyday activities such as personal care, household tasks and support to join in community activities
capacity-building supports – help to build or maintain skills and independence such as behaviour support, employment-related support and therapies
capital supports – high-cost assistive technologies, home modifications and specialist disability accommodation
recurring supports – regularly paid directly to a participant’s account and typically include costs for transport.
In each category, supports are labelled either flexible or stated. Flexible supports allow for some discretion in how funds are used.
“Assistance with daily life” can cover a range of tasks including household cleaning or meal preparation. These core support funds tend to be the most flexible.
Stated supports, on the other hand, must be used exactly as the plan describes.
Not all plans have funds in every category.
Importantly, funds can’t be shifted from one category to another. You can’t, for example, use core funding for capacity building supports.
New funding periods introduced
In May, changes were introduced for new plans, meaning funds are released over set time periods.
While the total value of the plan remains the same, there are now limits on when funds can be accessed and how long they need to last.
Funding can be allocated over different periods:
quarterly – released in three-month blocks so spending is spread over the full length of the plan
monthly – for high-cost ongoing supports such as supported independent living
up-front – funding for one-off supports such as assistive technology can be released in full at the start of a plan.
Participants may have different funding periods for different parts of their plan, although most funds will likely be released quarterly.
If funds aren’t used in an allocated period they roll over into the next time block in the same plan.
However, any funds left unused at the end of the full plan duration are returned to the NDIS funding pool.
What’s the government trying to do?
The change means participants can’t draw on future allocations if funds for a current period run out. Nor can funds be shifted between categories.
If a plan is exhausted, participants may be left without support or face out-of-pocket costs, particularly if plans are self-managed.
Service-providers may stop delivering support if they’re notified that a participant’s budget has run out.
In some cases, the NDIS may consider persistent overspending as a sign the participant cannot effectively manage their plan. This could result in the NDIA taking over management of their plan.
If a participant consistently finds their funds run out early, or if they need more funds because their circumstances change and they need more support, they can request a review of their plan to seek more funding.
However, requesting a plan review can sometimes affect other areas of a participant’s plan. So some people may be reluctant to ask for a review and instead try to manage with less supports than they need.
A number of disability rights organisations have spoken out against these changes, stating they have the potential to impact NDIS participants’ autonomy, safety and wellbeing.
Tips for NDIS participants to manage their plans
Ensure you understand your plan and how the funds are split between support categories and funding periods. It might be helpful to discuss this with a family member, friend or support coordinator.
Remember, not everyone gets everything they ask for in their plan, so make sure you’re clear on the funding you received.
If your plan seems insufficient for your needs, consider asking for a review.
A good way to ensure your spending stays on track is to set budget goals for a plan. There are several different apps and software programs that can help with this.
Finally, a range of websites offer advice and resources to help NDIS participants understand their budgets and spending. You can sometimes claim for these resources within your NDIS funding.
Helen Dickinson receives funding from Australian Research Council., National Health and Medical Research Council. Medical Research Future Fund and Australian governments.
Glenda Bishop receives funding from the Medical Research Future Fund.
Semen, sperm, spunk, cum, ejaculate, pre-cum, seminal fluid. These are just some of the many words we use to describe what comes out of an erect penis.
Some of these terms can be used interchangeably, but they’re not all the same. Do you know the difference?
What is sperm?
Sperm are male reproductive (sex) cells. The word “sperm” can refer to spermatozoon (singular) or spermatozoa (plural).
Sperm are tiny cells with an oval-shaped body and a long tail. They measure just 1/20th of a millimetre in length and can only be seen with a microscope.
Sperm are produced in the two testes (testicles). The testes are glands located inside the scrotum (the skin sac underneath where the penis is attached to the body).
The testes begin producing sperm at puberty. Sperm production then continues throughout adult life, beginning to decline around age 40. The testes make about 200 million sperm every day.
To develop, sperm need a temperature range of 34–35°C, which is lower than core body temperature (usually between 36 and 37°C). This is why the testes are located in the cooler scrotum and not in the abdomen or pelvis.
Each sperm carries chromosomes, which are made up of DNA and genes. When a sperm cell fertilises a female reproductive cell (an ovum or egg), the genetic information of the sperm and ovum combines to form an embryo.
What is semen?
Ejaculated sperm has to reach the uterine (fallopian) tubes to fertilise an egg. This is a long journey, so sperm are carried in a fluid that nourishes and protects it (seminal fluid).
Semen is the mix of sperm and seminal fluid together. It is Latin for “seed” from serere, “to sow”. Semen only exists outside the body, because sperm and seminal fluid only combine at the point of ejaculation.
Seminal fluid is made in the sex glands. These are the seminal vesicles and prostate, which sit just behind and below the bladder, respectively.
The seminal vesicles produce a thick, gel-like substance. It clumps the sperm together immediately after ejaculation and provides the sperm with energy (fructose) to survive their journey.
This fluid is alkaline – the opposite to acidic – which protects sperm in the more acidic vagina.
The prostate secretes a thinner, milky fluid with acids that liquefy the semen. This helps the sperm to separate from the initial clump so they can travel through the cervix and uterus to the uterine tubes.
The prostate also provides zinc, which is essential for sperm survival.
Ejaculating secretes these fluids and sperm into the urethra, the narrow tube that runs through the penis and also transports urine. At this point, they combine as semen.
Semen is about 10% sperm and 90% fluid from the seminal vesicles and prostate.
If semen is ejaculated into a vagina, sperm have to travel around 15 centimetres to reach the uterine tubes, which is the most common site for fertilisation.
The fastest and healthiest sperm travel this distance – about 3,000 times their body length – in only 30 minutes.
For a human of average height, this equates to swimming about 5 kilometres in half an hour. That means sperm can swim twice as fast as the current world record for a 5km open water swim.
Does ‘pre-cum’ have sperm in it?
An aroused and erect penis can secrete up to 4mL of pre-ejaculate (pre-cum), which is completely different to semen.
Pre-ejaculate is produced by different sex glands – the small bulbourethral glands that sit just under the prostate. It is a mucus fluid that lubricates and flushes out the urethra in the penis.
Theoretically, pre-ejaculate doesn’t contain sperm. However, one small study found the pre-ejaculate of about 40% of men they studied contained sperm, though in very low numbers.
A vasectomy is a form of male contraceptive. This involves cutting the two vas deferens – the tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra. After a vasectomy, ejaculating will produce slightly less semen and it won’t contain sperm.
The World Health Organization has published a range of values for semen volume and sperm number, concentration, movement and structure among fertile males. However, low sperm count does not always mean lower fertility.
To keep sperm healthy, it’s recommended to eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and not smoke, use recreational drugs or drink a lot of alcohol.
Theresa Larkin does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
An AI-powered orthopedic surgical robot is seen in the Healthy Life Chain area of the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, capital of China, July 17, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
From showcasing their latest products to forging local partnerships, global pharmaceutical companies have emphasized local research and development (R&D) and partnerships at the third China International Supply Chain Expo as they seek to strengthen their presence in one of their largest markets.
The five-day expo highlights China’s importance to multinational firms as both a major market and a hub for global innovation, advanced manufacturing and resilient supply chains.
“China is going to be the world’s largest healthcare market and a crucial source of innovation,” said Alex Gu, president of Medtronic Greater China, adding that China is playing an increasingly important role in the global healthcare industrial chain.
In 2024, an electric surgical stapler developed by the U.S. company transitioned from research and development to mass production in China and is now used at over 500 hospitals nationwide. It has also been exported to other markets.
Deep supply chain collaboration with local partners is vital and Medtronic now has nearly 7,000 suppliers in China.
During the expo, the company launched a new partnership to build an AI-powered diagnostic and treatment system for aortic disease and structural heart disease. This is part of a broader trend in the pharmaceutical industry to use AI to drive R&D and improve disease diagnosis and treatment.
At the expo, French drugmaker Sanofi exhibited its ecosystem, as well as its latest products for conditions such as immunological, cardiovascular, metabolic and other diseases.
Local R&D plays a key role in Sanofi’s development. Sanofi now operates R&D centers in cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, and its Chinese research staff have been deeply involved in over 90 percent of its global co-development projects, including 12 potential blockbuster drugs.
For Sanofi, the supply chain expo serves as a platform not only to showcase its products but also to build collaborations.
“Here, we explore innovative collaborations with our global partners, from R&D to production and patient accessibility enhancement, and share the latest results of localized practices,” said Wayne Shi, president of Sanofi Greater China. Sanofi will continue to support the Healthy China initiative with innovative drugs and vaccines, Shi said.
Meanwhile, Novo Nordisk announced new partnerships with local manufacturing, logistics and tech firms at the expo, as part of its latest efforts to deepen local industrial chain cooperation.
Novo Nordisk has continued to increase its investment in China, enhancing its presence throughout the industry chain to better serve patients in China. To date, the company has introduced 22 innovative drugs and 11 innovative injection devices in China for the treatment of diabetes, obesity and rare diseases.
As a participant in all three editions of the supply chain expo, Novo Nordisk is joining more industrial chain partners this year to build a comprehensive health management ecosystem that drives chronic disease management, said Christine Zhou, president of Novo Nordisk Region China.
Running from Wednesday to Sunday, the supply chain expo served as a key platform for multinational firms to strengthen collaboration with Chinese partners amid global economic uncertainties.
The event has attracted 651 companies and institutions from 75 countries and regions. Overseas exhibitors account for 35 percent, a three-percentage-point increase from last year.
A strong reminder has been sent to a stevedoring company and others in the industry after a stevedore was badly injured while unloading cargo.
Qube Ports NZ Limited was recently sentenced in the Tauranga District Court in relation to a 2022 incident onboard the bulk carrier, Daiwan Hero. It had previously pleaded guilty to breaching its duty as a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), by exposing an individual to a risk of death or serious injury under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
The incident resulted in a stevedore falling about six metres while removing cardboard and debris in the hold. They suffered numerous injuries to their legs, requiring surgery.
When the incident occurred, large tissue pulp reels were being unloaded from the vessel. These were stacked up to nine metres on top of each other.
Maritime NZ Investigations Manager, John Maxwell, says while there were safety processes in place to reduce the potential for a fall from height, the operator did not meet all the safety standards required to protect its workers on this occasion.
“Despite the relevant safety documentation being in place, Qube failed to implement the identified safety measures within its operating procedures,” Mr Maxwell says.
Working from heights is a known critical risk. The outcome is an important message for operators to properly ensure critical risks are appropriately controlled in order to keep people safe.
In sentencing Judge Mason made orders totalling just over $300,000 against Qube Ports NZ Limited.
Spinal cord stimulators are electrical devices that are surgically implanted in the body to treat long-term pain. They have a battery pack and leads that deliver electrical impulses directly to the spinal cord. The devices are thought to work by providing electrical impulses that interfere with how the brain senses pain.
Spinal cord stimulators are mainly used to treat chronic back pain, especially when other less invasive treatments have not worked. They also aim to reduce people’s reliance on risky pain medicines. These include opioids, which research shows are ineffective and harmful for low-back pain.
But research, including our own, shows spinal cord stimulators work no better than a placebo. And they can also carry risks.
Do they work?
In a 2023 Cochrane review, researchers reviewed data from 13 randomised controlled trials on low-back pain and found no benefits in the short and medium term. These international reviews draw together the most robust evidence to provide a detailed summary of what we know on a particular topic.
Only one of the trials in the review tested efficacy in the longer term (six months). That trial found no benefits of spinal cord stimulation.
An earlier Cochrane review looked at the evidence of spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain in general, including for neck pain. Reviewers looked at 15 randomised controlled trials and couldn’t be certain about its benefits, largely due to the quality and reliability of the available trials.
Are there side effects?
Aside from disappointing results for pain relief, there are risks and side effects to consider.
We co-authored an analysis of 520 adverse events reported to Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). We found 79% of reported events were rated as severe, with 13% life-threatening. The same research found 80% of events required surgery to correct.
Our recent analysis in the Medical Journal of Australia looked at data from private health insurers. These cover 90% of spinal cord stimulation implants in Australia. Five major insurers, which covered 76% of privately insured people, contributed de-identified data.
We found about one-quarter of people who had a spinal cord stimulator implanted needed corrective surgery afterwards. These surgeries occurred within a median of about 17 months. This indicates these surgeries are not routine or expected interventions, such as to replace batteries, which are meant to last five to ten years.
Our previous research shows the sorts of reasons for corrective surgery. These include to replace a malfunctioning device, or the person was in more pain, had an infection, or a puncture of the delicate tissues covering the spinal cord.
However, even our latest findings are likely to underestimate the risk of these devices.
Sometimes the lead delivering the electrical current moves away from the spinal cord to elsewhere in the body. This requires surgery to reposition the lead, but does not necessarily require new hardware, such as a brand new lead. So this type of corrective surgery is not counted in the data from the private health insurance companies.
How much does it cost?
We found spinal cord stimulators cost about A$55,000 per patient, including the device, its insertion, and managing any associated additional surgeries.
For people who only had a “trial” – where the leads are implanted temporarily but the battery pack remains outside the body – this cost was about $14,000 per patient.
These figures do not include any out-of-pocket costs.
What do regulators say about the devices?
In 2022 the TGA began a review of spinal cord stimulators on the market because of safety and performance concerns.
The rest of the devices had conditions imposed, such as the manufacturers being required to collect and report safety data to the TGA at regular time points.
Should I do my own online research?
Yes, but be careful. Unfortunately not all online information about spinal cord stimulators is correct.
Look for sites independent of those who manufacture or implant these devices.
Government agencies, health departments and universities that have no financial interests in this area may be a better option.
The Cochrane Library is also a reliable and independent source for trustworthy health information.
What shall I ask my doctor?
The Australian health department provides useful advice for consumers about medical implants.
It says medical implants “are considered higher-risk therapeutic goods, and the decision to get one should not be taken lightly”. It recommends asking your health professional these questions:
do I really need this medical implant?
what are the risks/benefits?
is the medical implant approved?
where can I get more information?
what happens if I experience an adverse event?
What else could I do for my back pain?
There are other treatment options that are effective and have fewer risks than spinal cord stimulation.
For example, education about how to manage your pain yourself, exercise, cognitive behavioural therapy (a type of psychological therapy), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (such as ibuprofen) all have solid evidence to back them. All offer benefits that are not outweighed by their potential risks.
Australian research has shown other types of therapy – such as sensorimotor retraining and cognitive functional therapy – are also effective. You can discuss these and other options with your health professional.
Spinal cord stimulation is a good example of a treatment that got ahead of the evidence. Although the devices have been around since the 1960s, we’ve only had reliable trials to test whether they work in recent years.
Everyone wants to find ways to help people with chronic pain, but we must ensure medical care is grounded in reliable science.
Christopher Maher holds a research fellowship funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
Caitlin Jones does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Spinal cord stimulators are electrical devices that are surgically implanted in the body to treat long-term pain. They have a battery pack and leads that deliver electrical impulses directly to the spinal cord. The devices are thought to work by providing electrical impulses that interfere with how the brain senses pain.
Spinal cord stimulators are mainly used to treat chronic back pain, especially when other less invasive treatments have not worked. They also aim to reduce people’s reliance on risky pain medicines. These include opioids, which research shows are ineffective and harmful for low-back pain.
But research, including our own, shows spinal cord stimulators work no better than a placebo. And they can also carry risks.
Do they work?
In a 2023 Cochrane review, researchers reviewed data from 13 randomised controlled trials on low-back pain and found no benefits in the short and medium term. These international reviews draw together the most robust evidence to provide a detailed summary of what we know on a particular topic.
Only one of the trials in the review tested efficacy in the longer term (six months). That trial found no benefits of spinal cord stimulation.
An earlier Cochrane review looked at the evidence of spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain in general, including for neck pain. Reviewers looked at 15 randomised controlled trials and couldn’t be certain about its benefits, largely due to the quality and reliability of the available trials.
Are there side effects?
Aside from disappointing results for pain relief, there are risks and side effects to consider.
We co-authored an analysis of 520 adverse events reported to Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). We found 79% of reported events were rated as severe, with 13% life-threatening. The same research found 80% of events required surgery to correct.
Our recent analysis in the Medical Journal of Australia looked at data from private health insurers. These cover 90% of spinal cord stimulation implants in Australia. Five major insurers, which covered 76% of privately insured people, contributed de-identified data.
We found about one-quarter of people who had a spinal cord stimulator implanted needed corrective surgery afterwards. These surgeries occurred within a median of about 17 months. This indicates these surgeries are not routine or expected interventions, such as to replace batteries, which are meant to last five to ten years.
Our previous research shows the sorts of reasons for corrective surgery. These include to replace a malfunctioning device, or the person was in more pain, had an infection, or a puncture of the delicate tissues covering the spinal cord.
However, even our latest findings are likely to underestimate the risk of these devices.
Sometimes the lead delivering the electrical current moves away from the spinal cord to elsewhere in the body. This requires surgery to reposition the lead, but does not necessarily require new hardware, such as a brand new lead. So this type of corrective surgery is not counted in the data from the private health insurance companies.
How much does it cost?
We found spinal cord stimulators cost about A$55,000 per patient, including the device, its insertion, and managing any associated additional surgeries.
For people who only had a “trial” – where the leads are implanted temporarily but the battery pack remains outside the body – this cost was about $14,000 per patient.
These figures do not include any out-of-pocket costs.
What do regulators say about the devices?
In 2022 the TGA began a review of spinal cord stimulators on the market because of safety and performance concerns.
The rest of the devices had conditions imposed, such as the manufacturers being required to collect and report safety data to the TGA at regular time points.
Should I do my own online research?
Yes, but be careful. Unfortunately not all online information about spinal cord stimulators is correct.
Look for sites independent of those who manufacture or implant these devices.
Government agencies, health departments and universities that have no financial interests in this area may be a better option.
The Cochrane Library is also a reliable and independent source for trustworthy health information.
What shall I ask my doctor?
The Australian health department provides useful advice for consumers about medical implants.
It says medical implants “are considered higher-risk therapeutic goods, and the decision to get one should not be taken lightly”. It recommends asking your health professional these questions:
do I really need this medical implant?
what are the risks/benefits?
is the medical implant approved?
where can I get more information?
what happens if I experience an adverse event?
What else could I do for my back pain?
There are other treatment options that are effective and have fewer risks than spinal cord stimulation.
For example, education about how to manage your pain yourself, exercise, cognitive behavioural therapy (a type of psychological therapy), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (such as ibuprofen) all have solid evidence to back them. All offer benefits that are not outweighed by their potential risks.
Australian research has shown other types of therapy – such as sensorimotor retraining and cognitive functional therapy – are also effective. You can discuss these and other options with your health professional.
Spinal cord stimulation is a good example of a treatment that got ahead of the evidence. Although the devices have been around since the 1960s, we’ve only had reliable trials to test whether they work in recent years.
Everyone wants to find ways to help people with chronic pain, but we must ensure medical care is grounded in reliable science.
Christopher Maher holds a research fellowship funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
Caitlin Jones does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Today, President Donald J. Trump celebrates the most successful first six months in office for any President in modern American history.
Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill, thereby delivering the largest tax cut in American history, increasing Americans’ take-home pay by as much as $13,300, and terminating benefits for at least 1.4 million illegal immigrants who were gaming the system.
Congress passed President Trump’s historic rescissions package, which will save taxpayers $9 billion in wasteful, politically-motivated funding for leftwing foreign aid scams and biased NPR and PBS.
The wholesale price of a dozen eggs is down 53%, or $3.09, since the inauguration and is down 62%, or $5.08, from its March peak.
The U.S. economy has now added a net of 671,000 jobs since January 2025, with jobs numbers beating expectations four months in a row. Native-born workers have accounted for all job gains, with native-born employment increasing 2,079,000 while foreign-born employment has fallen 543,000.
U.S. Customs and Border Patrol encountered just 6,070 illegal immigrants at the southern border in June — setting a new record low (15% lower than the previous record set in March). Additionally, zero illegal immigrants were released into the U.S. on parole in June, compared to 27,766 a year prior.
The administration has ramped up deportations, breaking a record for the number of deportation flights in a month in June. President Trump’s self-deportation push has also been a massive success. Additionally, over 600 known and suspected terrorists have been removed from the United States.
At President Trump’s direction, U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement has arrested over 100,000 illegal alien criminals, including over 2,700 members of the vicious Tren de Aragua gang.
Following President Trump’s declaration of an energy emergency, the U.S. has reached its fastest rate of new oil and gas drilling permits in years, exceeding the Biden administration by 44%.
Since President Trump took office, core inflation has tracked at just 2.1% — levels not seen since the first Trump Administration, when prices were low and stable — and has come in below or at economists’ expectations every single month. Meanwhile, wholesale inflation remained flat in June, while import prices came in far below expectations.
Summer gas prices reached their lowest point since 2021, and, inflation-adjusted, are near a 20-year low.
President Trump’s deregulatory efforts have already saved Americans over $180 billion, or $2,100 per family of four, with the rollback of automobile-related rules alone expected to save consumers more than $1.1 trillion.
President Trump secured a historic agreement for NATO members to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP – a foreign policy feat long thought impossible.
Under President Trump’s strong and decisive leadership, the U.S. obliterated Iran’s nuclear program.
As a result of his historic peacemaking efforts, President Trump has alreadyreceivedthree Nobel Peace Prize nominations since returning to office.
In May, blue-collar wage growth saw its largest increase in nearly 60 years since President Trump’s return to office.
Companies and foreign governments have pledged over $7.6 trillion in investments into the U.S.
The U.S. Treasury has taken in nearly $90 billion in tariff duties since January 2025, with the agency posting a record $27.2 billion surplus in June – the first June surplus since 2005.
President Trump has once again proved to be the Dealmaker-in-Chief, inking a minerals deal with Ukraine, a $14 billion “perpetual Golden Share” sale of U.S. Steel, and trade deals with the United Kingdom, China, and Indonesia.
President Trump has signed over 170 executive orders, delivering on key campaign promises such as closing the border, protecting children from chemical and surgical mutilation, removing men from women’s sports, unleashing American energy, ending federal censorship, ending the radical indoctrination in K-12 schooling, and ending radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing.
The S&P 500 and Nasdaq market indices have reached multiple record highs.
The Supreme Court consistently bolstered the Trump administration’s agenda, blocking activist judges from issuing nationwide injunctions, permitting “third-country deportations,” greenlighting the revocation of temporary protected status (TPS) from more than 500,000 migrants and approving efforts to shrink the federal bureaucracy.
The Trump administration has made incredible strides in its effort to Make America Healthy Again, with roughly 35% of the American food industry making a commitment to eliminate the use of artificial dyes, including Hershey, Consumer Brands and dozens of ice cream companies representing more than 90% of the ice cream volume sold in the U.S.
President Trump has ensured U.S. benefit programs serve U.S. citizens, with the administration now having protected more than $40 billion in benefit programs from illegal aliens since POTUS signed an Executive Order in February “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders.”
President Trump inked an agreement to provide billions of dollars of military equipment to Ukraine, with NATO footing the bill.
President Trump has cracked down on international cartels, designating eight Latin American cartels as terrorist groups, including Tren de Aragua, MS-13 and the Sinaloa Cartel.
President Trump has solidified the U.S.’s position as the world leader in artificial intelligence, attracting north of $1 trillion in AI investment, including $90 billion in groundbreaking AI and energy investments in Pennsylvania.
The U.S. is on track for its lowest murder rate on record following President Trump’s reinstatement of law and order.
Hospitals and hospital systems across the country have halted so-called “gender-affirming care” for minors following President Trump’s executive order “protecting children from chemical and surgical mutilation.”
In his first six months, President Trump has met with 23 foreign leaders, including three visits from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as two visits from the NATO Secretary General — compared to thirteen foreign leaders and the UN Secretary General, the NATO Secretary General, and the Chinese Foreign Minister for Obama and just five in-person visits for Biden.
Jersey City, NJ, July 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Maintaining blood sugar levels is more important these days than ever before. Whether you are experiencing prediabetes, diabetes, or simply want to manage a healthier lifestyle, monitoring glucose levels continuously is very important for making wise decisions. That’s why we are excited to introduce the Blood Vitals, which helps to monitor glucose levels. It is a user-friendly and innovative device formulated to provide you with real-time and accurate insights into the body’s blood sugar status. You May Click Here to Visit The Official Website.
Official Announcement for Launching
We are happy to announce the official launch of Blood Vitals, which is now available to the public for the very first time.
After several months of research, rigorous testing, and development, we are bringing such a cutting-edge glucose tracking system to market to assist users and families in taking charge of their health like never before.
The Blood Vitals Glucose Monitor can be obtained through the official website for purchase via authorized platforms as well as partner stores. Additionally, this launch marks a significant milestone in affordable, accessible, and genuine health tech for glucose monitoring.
The Blood Vitals Glucose Monitor is a digital, compact glucose tracking system formulated for users who want an easy, fast, and reliable way to track their blood sugar levels. Designed with cutting-edge biosensor technology and modern design, this device is perfect for both home and healthcare professionals.
It offers genuine readings within a few seconds, integrates seamlessly with the latest health apps, and stores a history of glucose for a proper overview of metabolic health.
What Are The Features of Blood Vitals Glucose Monitor?
Let’s have a deep look at what makes this gadget stand out:
1. Accurate and Fast Readings
You can get outcomes within 5 seconds, and the Blood Vitals Glucose Monitor ensures that each test is convenient, quick, and provides accurate outcomes.
2. Advanced Technology of Sensors
This gadget utilizes next-generation biosensors that measure glucose levels with complete and high precision. Additionally, the sensors are formulated for minimal discomfort but maximum accuracy.
3. No coding needed
Unlike other devices, the Blood Vitals device does not need manual coding. You only have to insert a trip, and it is good to go, discarding the risk of incorrect calibration.
4. Portable and Compact
Lightweight, travel-friendly, and slim, this gadget can be fitted simply into your bag or pocket. Perfect for individuals with busy lifestyles who need to detect their blood sugar levels from time to time.
5. Storage of Memory
The device may store test results up to 500, enabling users to monitor and compare the readings over time without requiring them to write anything on paper.
6. Easy to Read with Large Display
Because of the digital screen features, it becomes easy to bold numbers with backlighting, making it simple to read outcomes in lighting conditions.
Well, blood sugar tracking is a very important tool for everyone seeking to maintain health. Here are the reasons:
Treatment Adjustment – Assists your healthcare professional in evaluating whether your dietary plans or medication are working properly.
Fast Detection – Tracking always enables you to detect sudden drops or spikes in glucose, which may be dangerous if left without diagnosis or resolution.
Awareness of Lifestyle – It also promotes better eating, sleep patterns, and exercise by showing real-time reviews on how your body reacts.
Provide Long-Term Health – Complete glycemic control always helps to decrease the risk of issues like nerve damage, heart disease, vision issues, and kidney problems.
Who Should Go With a Blood Vitals Glucose Monitor?
This device is perfect for:
Those with prediabetes
Individuals with diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
Users following a ketogenic, fasting, or low-carb lifestyle
Health-conscious users who want better awareness of metabolism
Healthcare providers and caregivers maintain the glucose levels of others
How Can You Use The Blood Vitals Glucose Monitor?
Well, utilizing this gadget is intuitive and simple. Here is the step-by-step breakdown:
Add a Test Strip – If you want to get accurate outcomes, then you have to use only Blood Vitals approved strips.
Apply a Sample of Blood – A tiny finger-prick sample is enough.
Get Outcomes Within Seconds – Wait for approx. 5 seconds for complete reading.
Log automatically – Your outcomes are stored in the gadget and may sync with the application.
Review The Trends – Check the application dashboard to analyze averages, patterns, and fluctuations over months, weeks, or days.
Blood Vitals is a reliable and perfect choice for users because:
1. One-Touch Operation – It makes the testing procedure efficient and simple.
2. Sampling is painless – It generally uses ultra-thin lancets, especially for minimal discomfort.
3. Backup in Cloud – You will never lose the data, whether you switch phones.
4. Alerts and Reminders – You should stay consistent with routine checks.
5. Support Multi-users – Perfect for caregivers or families.
Blood Vitals Reviews – Smarter and Innovative Health Management
The Blood Vitals track pairs easily with the companion mobile application, available for both Android and iOS. The app contains:
Custom notification for low or high glucose.
Monthly, weekly, or daily trend charts.
Data sharing alternatives for dieticians, doctors, and family.
Integration with Google Fit and Apple Health.
Whether you are monitoring after or before meals, maintaining fasting periods, or keeping an eye on glucose for the entire day, the app converts raw data into actionable insights.
Why Should You Select Blood Vitals Over Others?
Accuracy is Trusted – It is a lab-tested product with field validation.
Components are FDA-registered – Designed with compliant technology.
Test Strips are Affordable – It is a cost-effective product compared to other premium brands.
Customer Support – Yes, it is completely backed by knowledgeable customer service support.
The introduction of Blood Vitals Glucose Monitor marks a new era, especially in health tracking. This product is officially released and can now be purchased. This state-of-the-art gadget is formulated to empower individuals to take control of their health as intelligently and efficiently as possible. These days, monitoring blood sugar levels is crucial for everyone, and that’s why Blood Vitals has been designed to track blood sugar levels.
In a continued effort to reduce the burden of cervical cancer, the Ministry of Health, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other key partners has launched a national training initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of both doctors and nurses in the screening and treatment of pre-cancerous cervical lesions.
The two-week training brought together healthcare workers from various districts, including Good Hope, Mochudi, and Palapye. The programme focused on equipping six doctors and a group of nurses with advanced clinical skills, particularly in managing cases that require more than basic procedures such as thermal ablation or cryotherapy. “Our goal is to ensure that both doctors and nurses are adequately trained to identify and manage cervical pre-cancer,” said Ms Thomamo Pheto, National Coordinator for the Cervical Cancer Prevention Programme at the Ministry of Health. “Many districts in Botswana still lack skilled personnel, and this training is designed to close that gap.”
Since the inception of the programme in 2015, more than 283 healthcare professionals have been trained in cervical cancer screening and treatment, an achievement made possible through ongoing collaboration with WHO and other development partners. Ms Pheto noted that the training has sparked a growing interest in women’s health among healthcare workers and has significantly strengthened capacity at the district level. “This time around, we are building a team of professionals who will return to their districts better prepared to screen more women and manage cases early, before they progress to full-blown cancer,” she added.
Despite the availability of services, Botswana continues to record low cervical cancer screening rates. Ms Pheto attributes this to the asymptomatic nature of pre-cancer and the resulting lack of urgency.
“When you have a pre-cancer, you don’t feel sick. There’s no pain, no discharge, so many women assume they’re fine,” she said. “This false sense of security is one of the reasons women don’t come forward for screening.” She emphasized the importance of reaching women who have never screened. “Those who have never screened are the ones we are most concerned about. Their health status is unknown, and they may already be at risk.”
In his remarks, WHO Botswana’s focal person for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs), Dr Tebogo Madidimalo, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat. “Botswana is committed towards eliminating cervical cancer by 2030, and we all, particularly us health care workers, have a responsibility to ensure that women coming through our facilities are offered cervical cancer screening and timely follow-up care,” said Dr Madidimalo. He further highlighted the nation’s strong record in addressing major health challenges: “We have proven before that elimination of communicable diseases is possible in Botswana, and likewise, elimination of cervical cancer is within reach for us. It will, however, take all hands-on deck to achieve the WHO targets for elimination.”
Ms Pheto echoed this call to action, encouraging communities to support eligible women, especially those aged 25 and above, to come forward for screening. “Cervical cancer is a silent killer. By the time symptoms appear, it may already be too late. But with early detection, it is both preventable and treatable.”
With continued support from WHO and other partners, the Ministry of Health remains committed to scaling up prevention efforts, enhancing healthcare worker capacity, and expanding community outreach. “With the right skills, tools, and community support, we can save lives and move closer to eliminating cervical cancer as a public health threat in Botswana,” Ms Pheto concluded.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO), Botswana.