Historically, the isolation and epidemiologic analyses of these viruses largely correlated with specific surveillance studies or diagnostic competencies (5 ).
Of the 80 students recruited during 2001 2007, 69 (86%) acquired seven core competencies (epidemiology, surveillance, outbreaks, research, human subjects protection, communication and management) and graduated through completion of at least six field assignments.
The World Health Organization National Influenza Center (WHO NIC) designation was conferred in the Lower Mekong region as early as 1972 when Thailand was designated a NIC, followed by Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar in 2005, 2006, and 2008, respectively; reflecting recognition of laboratory, surveillance, and outbreak investigative competencies in the region.
We are not aware of any other criterion-referenced and psychometrically validated assessments of knowledge underpinning core competencies in fetal surveillance.
A recent book chapter by Simpson [ 8] explains that core competencies in fetal surveillance could perhaps be assessed using a sample of 25 to 50 multiple-choice items.
Within the domain of factual and conceptual knowledge that underpins fetal surveillance there exists a hierarchy of competencies that can be identified by subject-matter experts.
This means that junior researchers need epidemiology training the least, except in three sub competencies; mathematical modeling, disease surveillance and subjective health measures, all of which were below 4 points (Table 4).
This data provides phylogenetic support for a recent historical connection of mosquito populations in Australia and PNG that will facilitate more rational arbovirus competency experiments and better surveillance for these mosquitoes in the future.
Both the nurses and patients perceived behaviors determining nurses' competency in professional knowledge and care surveillance or practical behaviors to be more important than psycho-social skills.
The programme had seven core competencies: (1) mastering epidemiological sciences, (2) managing surveillance, (3) investigating outbreaks, (4) operational research, (5) human subjects' protection, (6) communication and (7) programme management and evaluation.
