Latest news with #PID
Express Tribune
7 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
PM wants IT training programmes for youth
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addresses a ceremony organized on the eve of 249th anniversary of Independence Day of United States of America on June 4, 2025. Photo: PID Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday announced plans to develop a sustainable and modern Information and Communication System in Pakistan, aimed at positioning the country as a regional hub for the information technology (IT) sector. Chairing a review meeting on the development of the IT training ecosystem in Pakistan, the prime minister emphasized the importance of equipping youth with modern, market-driven skills to support local transformation. He stressed that training programmes must be designed to ensure employment opportunities for participants. Shehbaz also underscored the need to provide competent IT professionals to local companies, enabling them to meet international standards and contribute to foreign exchange earnings. He directed that clear terms of reference be drafted for consultancy services related to the training system. He directed the Federal Education Ministry, Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Neotech to work together with the IT Ministry to impart trainings in schools, colleges and universities level. The IT training should be ensured in summer camps during the current summer vacations, he said. The meeting was informed that recently the trained Pakistani students made the country proud by winning the first three positions, not only in China, but other competitions also, which was contested by 200,000 students from across the world. The prime minister was briefed that a target had been set to give training to 50,000 trainers in Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Islamabad, keeping in view modern technology and contemporary requirements. Separately, the prime minister met with a United Arab Emirates (UAE) delegation, led by Deputy Minister Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange Abdulla Nasser Lootah, and expressed his desire to benefit from the UAE's experiences of its modern management system. Shehbaz said that Pakistan had taken steps such as digitisation and paperless economy to improve its administrative structure. In addition, a faceless customs system has also been implemented, said a separate press release issued by the PMO Media Wing. On the occasion, Lootah said that the UAE was happy to exchange experiences and information with Pakistan. Later, Prime Minister Shehbaz and Minister Lootah witnessed the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two countries. Under this MoU, the two countries will cooperate in improving government performance by exchanging knowledge and mutual experience, guidance and development models in the fields of development planning, public sector reforms, human resource, urban planning, and science and technology. (WITH INPUT FROM NEWS DESK)
Los Angeles Times
12-06-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a sneaky infection that affects the upper female reproductive tract – uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries – and is classified as an upper genital tract infection. Often linked to untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), most cases of PID are caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. PID can have serious reproductive consequences such as chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy and infertility. If left untreated PID can cause permanent damage to reproductive organs which can impact fertility and overall reproductive health. The challenge for clinicians is not only the subtle or non specific symptoms but also the expanding list of causative pathogens and shifting resistance patterns. Risk factors for PID are unprotected sex and having multiple partners which increases the risk of PID especially in young women. Fortunately recent research is changing how we approach diagnosis, treatment and prevention – offering hope for better outcomes with early comprehensive care. Diagnosing a PID isn't as simple as ordering one test. Most clinicians rely on a combination of clinical signs: lower abdominal pain, cervical motion tenderness and uterine or adnexal tenderness. Clinical diagnosis is key with pelvic examination playing a big role in evaluating cervical discharge, uterine tenderness and lower genital tract inflammation. The classic 2008 study on PID management advises to have a 'low threshold' for diagnosis especially since delayed treatment can cause permanent reproductive damage [1]. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent complications and long term sequelae. But the microbial picture is more complicated than that. While Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are still the well known culprits, they're not the only ones. A 2021 review in The Journal of Infectious Diseases points to pathogens like Mycoplasma genitalium as emerging players in PID [7]. These atypical bacteria often evade traditional STI tests making diagnosis harder and highlighting the need for broader microbial screening. Subclinical PID often resulting from less symptomatic infections like chlamydia can still cause long term consequences even in the absence of symptoms. Another 2021 study 'Etiology and Diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease' goes even further by suggesting diagnostic strategies that go beyond gonorrhea and chlamydia [8]. This broader approach reduces misdiagnosis and ensures treatment addresses the full range of potential infections – a key to better long term outcomes. When evaluating severe pain in the pelvic region or lower abdomen, clinicians must consider alternative diagnoses like ovarian torsion and tubo ovarian abscess. Diagnostic tools may include pelvic ultrasound and in uncertain cases endometrial biopsy to clarify the diagnosis. Comprehensive evaluation is key and clinicians must diagnose PID accurately to avoid missing cases with atypical presentations. When PID is suspected the standard advice is to treat immediately before test results confirm a specific pathogen. That's because empiric therapy which uses broad spectrum antibiotics covers the wide range of bacteria associated with PID. Empiric treatment and prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications like chronic pelvic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. The 2019 American Family Physician review outlines best practices for outpatient and inpatient settings and emphasizes early treatment especially in high risk women [2]. Outpatient treatment is an option for most patients with mild to moderate symptoms and allows them to manage the infection without hospitalization. Emergency medicine literature reinforces this point. Studies in Emergency Medicine Practice (2016 and 2022) stress the importance of prompt intervention especially in emergency departments where many PID cases present first [5] [6]. These papers also emphasize clear discharge instructions and the need for close follow up especially for women whose symptoms don't resolve fully within the first few days. It's essential to treat PID promptly and make sure patients receive treatment to avoid long term complications from pelvic infection. Choosing the right antibiotic combination matters too. A 2013 BMJ review using GRADE scoring to assess evidence strength suggests regimens with doxycycline, cefoxitin or ceftriaxone and metronidazole are most effective [9]. The same review also highlights the benefit of prophylactic antibiotics before IUD insertion especially in high risk patients. Birth control methods like IUDs can increase the risk of pelvic infection especially in the presence of bacterial vaginosis which disrupts the vaginal flora and may contribute to ascending infections. While most PID can be managed with outpatient antibiotics some scenarios require more intensive management. Hospitalization is recommended for patients who are pregnant, have severe symptoms, have an abscess or aren't responding to oral medications. Infections of the upper female genital tract and pelvic organs can cause long term complications including damage to the reproductive organs like the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. A 2023 article in Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management advises clinicians to stratify care based on illness severity and risk factors [3]. This includes considering polymicrobial infections and resistance trends when choosing treatment regimens. Presence of anaerobes or treatment resistant bacteria may require intravenous antibiotics or surgical intervention. There is also potential for scar tissue formation in the fallopian tube and other reproductive organs which can cause chronic pain and infertility. A 2010 review in Obstetrics and Gynecology echoes this message. It states most women recover well with outpatient care but clinicians must be aware of microbial diversity especially in populations where STI prevalence is high or access to care is limited [4]. As our understanding of PID evolves so do the tools to diagnose and treat it. Traditional STI panels may miss important pathogens which is why there's growing interest in non-invasive tests and molecular diagnostics. These technologies including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) can detect low abundance microbes like Mycoplasma genitalium that traditional methods miss [3] [7]. Looking ahead experts recommend a multipronged approach: Some public health campaigns are already incorporating these principles. For example the CDC's updated STI guidelines now include emerging pathogens and detailed follow up protocols. Planned Parenthood's PID awareness campaign stresses education, partner treatment and timely care – all key to stopping the cycle of reinfection. Comprehensive testing for other STIs like HIV and syphilis is also recommended for sexually active individuals. When discussing partner notification and public health education all sexual partners should be treated and advised to abstain from sexual intercourse or sexual contact until treatment is complete to prevent reinfection and further spread among sexually active individuals. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is one of the most common and most misunderstood gynecological emergencies. The infection's polymicrobial nature, subtle presentation and potential for long term harm make it a unique challenge in women's health. But the tide is turning. With growing awareness, better diagnostic tools and research based treatment strategies there is a clear path forward. Clinicians must stay up to date with evolving recommendations especially as we discover new pathogens and confront antibiotic resistance. The goal is no longer just treatment – it's prevention, precision and protecting reproductive futures. [1] Haggerty, C. L., & Ness, R. B. (2008). Diagnosis and treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease. Women's health (London, England), 4(4), 383–397. [2] Curry, A., Williams, T., & Penny, M. L. (2019). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention. American family physician, 100(6), 357–364. [3] Yusuf, H., & Trent, M. (2023). Management of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease in Clinical Practice. Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 19, 183–192. [4] Soper D. E. (2010). Pelvic inflammatory disease. Obstetrics and gynecology, 116(2 Pt 1), 419–428. [5] Bugg, C. W., & Taira, T. (2016). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Diagnosis And Treatment In The Emergency Department. Emergency medicine practice, 18(12), 1–24. [6] Taira, T., Broussard, N., & Bugg, C. (2022). Pelvic inflammatory disease: diagnosis and treatment in the emergency department. Emergency medicine practice, 24(12), 1–24. [7] Hillier, S. L., Bernstein, K. T., & Aral, S. (2021). A Review of the Challenges and Complexities in the Diagnosis, Etiology, Epidemiology, and Pathogenesis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. The Journal of infectious diseases, 224(12 Suppl 2), S23–S28. [8] Mitchell, C. M., Anyalechi, G. E., Cohen, C. R., Haggerty, C. L., Manhart, L. E., & Hillier, S. L. (2021). Etiology and Diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Looking Beyond Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. The Journal of infectious diseases, 224(12 Suppl 2), S29–S35. [9] Ross J. D. (2013). Pelvic inflammatory disease. BMJ clinical evidence, 2013, 1606.
Express Tribune
11-06-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
PM Shehbaz to visit UAE for high-level talks on June 12
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Istanbul airport on Sunday, May 25, 2025. Photo: PID Listen to article Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will undertake an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday, 12 June 2025. The visit highlights the deep-rooted fraternal relations between Pakistan and the UAE, built on mutual trust, shared values, and close cooperation in multiple sectors. The prime minister will be accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, and other senior officials. Read: PM Shehbaz 'ready for talks' with India on water, trade During the visit, Shehbaz will hold high-level engagements with the UAE leadership, including a bilateral meeting with the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. According to the Foreign Office, a wide range of bilateral, regional, and global issues of mutual interest and concern will be discussed during the interactions. Read More: Pakistan, Azerbaijan reaffirm commitment to strategic partnership The visit aims to further deepen economic cooperation, strengthen political understanding, and foster multifaceted collaboration across sectors including trade, investment, energy, and labour. In a statement, the Foreign Office said the visit is a manifestation of Pakistan's and the UAE's shared commitment to enhancing their strategic partnership. Both sides are expected to explore new avenues for collaboration, while reinforcing their long-standing cordial ties. Shehbaz also held telephone conversations with several world leaders on the occasion of Eidul Azha. He reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to regional peace, unity within the Muslim Ummah, and stronger bilateral cooperation. The discussions served to extend festive greetings and promote shared values of solidarity and mutual respect among nations. Read More: Islamabad, Riyadh to further elevate strategic ties Earlier, Shehbaz undertook a two-day official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The visit coincided with Eidul Azha and aimed to express Pakistan's appreciation for the Kingdom's constructive role in easing tensions between Pakistan and India during their recent conflict. The prime minister was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including senior ministers and officials, reflecting the importance Islamabad placed on the visit. In May, Shehbaz Sharif concluded a six-day tour of Turkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan. That tour was undertaken to consolidate regional ties and personally thank the leadership of those nations for their support during the crisis with India. Read More: Shehbaz, Erdogan vow to elevate 'strategic' ties The trip concluded in Tajikistan, where the prime minister participated in the International Conference on Glaciers in Dushanbe, reiterating Pakistan's commitment to regional cooperation on climate issues. Both diplomatic engagements were described by the Foreign Office as part of Pakistan's broader effort to bolster strategic partnerships, strengthen economic relations, and reinforce solidarity within the region.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Yahoo
Spartanburg Police Department prepares officers with annual training exercise
SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) — Police officers in Spartanburg have asked residents not to be alarmed if they see police activity or hear gunfire near the Temple B'nai Israel — it's all a part of training exercise. In moments of high pressure, officers have only seconds to make a serious and potentially consequential decision. There is no telling what any given call may bring, but officers said it is their job to be prepared for the worst of situations. That's where the training comes in. Sgt. Dylan Davis with Spartanburg Police said 100 to 150 officers are working through incident command response plans and practicing active shooter response. 'We test that decision making ability like you saw in the PID drill again, again and again,' davis said. 'We ramp it up and we ramp it down because you never know what you're walking into. So as instructors, if we can train, if our training is harder than anything you'll ever encounter — that's good.' Officers are given complex scenarios to navigate through and are tested on how they react. 'Is the officer able to make a clear decision under stressful circumstances? Because that's the nature of law enforcement,' Davis added. 'So that probably above all else, is what we're looking at now.' Police are also receiving assistance from role players; many of whom are family of officers. 'I come here every year with my dad, I like to be a hostage with a couple of my friends, so we come in and put fake wounds on,' said Warren, a 13-year-old family member of a participating officer. Dashanti Tillotson said she enjoyed helping officers practice. 'We did drills and stuff for like shootouts to help police officers get more experience and prepared for stuff like that,' Tillotson added. 'I had to stand in the front, say 'Help' and stuff and wait for them to come and get me.' Police will train inside the Heywood Avenue-based temple through Thursday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Reuters
10-06-2025
- Business
- Reuters
UK lawyer loses bid to overturn misconduct findings over $3 bln windfall
LONDON, June 10 (Reuters) - A British lawyer who stood to receive up to $3 billion from Nigeria over a collapsed gas project on Tuesday lost a bid to overturn court findings that he acted corruptly out of greed. Seamus Andrew had represented Process & Industrial Developments (P&ID), a little-known British Virgin Islands-based company, in a long-running legal battle with Nigeria that ended in a court victory for Africa's most populous country. Nigeria had been facing a bill for $11 billion, representing around a third of its foreign exchange reserves, after P&ID won an arbitration case over the collapse of a 2010 gas supply deal. But London's High Court in 2023 overturned the damages bill after finding that P&ID had paid bribes in connection with the underlying contract and the resulting arbitration. P&ID had denied paying bribes and accused Nigeria of institutional incompetence. Its application to appeal against the High Court's decision was refused. The court had also found that P&ID's lawyers, including Andrew, received confidential Nigerian documents during the arbitration, which they knew they were not entitled to see, with a judge describing Andrew's conduct as "indefensible." Andrew could have received 20% of all proceeds recovered from Nigeria, up to $3 billion of the $11 billion award, after becoming a director of P&ID and acquiring a stake in the company in 2017 following the end of the arbitration. Andrew applied to the Court of Appeal to overturn the findings against him, arguing that inadequate reasons were given for the criticism and that he was not given proper notice that findings would be made against him. But his application for permission to appeal was refused, with Judge Julian Flaux ruling on Tuesday that Andrew had brought his application too late and that, in any event, the criticism was adequately reasoned, foreseeable and justified. "Overall, the finding that Mr Andrew's conduct was indefensible was plainly correct," Flaux added. Andrew said in a statement: "Although I am disappointed by the outcome of my appeal, I believe that I acted in accordance with my professional duties and I am confident that my position will be vindicated in due course."
