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Background: The Eatwell Plate (FSA, 2007) is the current national food guide model recommended for use in Scotland. The model is essentially qualitative and introduces the five main food groups used in nutritional planning, illustrates the types of foods and drinks contained within each group and indicates the recommended ÔbalanceÕ between these groups for a healthy diet. However, it is recognised that a useful practical addition to the model may be the inclusion of quantitative guidance on portion sizes of commonly consumed foods. The current work is part of a programme which aims to ascertain the perceived utility of portion size tools in the general public and health professionals. Methods: Six single gender focus group discussions, quota sampled by age, gender and socio-economic status were undertaken in urban areas of central Scotland. Flexible and open-ended questioning procedures were used to stimulate discussion followed by the use of prompt materials to encourage active reflection. Discussions focussed on the issues of identifying and attaining appropriate portion sizes and on what type of tools might be helpful in identifying them (e.g. household measures plus/minus specific written and numerical information). The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed for content analysis on perceived need for guidance and practical ideas for assistance. Results: Overall, participants understood that the general concept of Ôportion weight guidanceÕ might be a helpful guide towards selecting appropriate quantities of foods. However, it was clear that several individuals thought that although guidance for the public in general was acceptable it was unnecessary for them personally. The main reasons given for not personally wishing quantitative guidance were perceptions of already ÔknowingÕ appropriate amounts to serve, inability to identify credible and consistent guidance which can be applied to meet the requirements of individuals, and a perception that the breadth of food guidance may be very large to be comprehensible. With respect to the design of the tool, participants stated a preference for simple messages (avoiding technical terminology) with clear, consistent and memorable statements. In addition, it was felt that portions should be depicted in context of overall daily intake (as opposed to per meal) using visually attractive material (e.g. use of colour/pictures/minimal use of words). Communications should also take account of individual differences in daily requirements. Discussion on routes for

PURPOSE The burden of cancer in Africa is growing rapidly, and increased cancer research on the continent is a critical component of an effective response. In 2010, the US National Cancer Institute, in partnership with the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer, launched the Beginning Investigator Grant for Catalytic Research (BIG Cat) initiative to support cancer research projects conducted by early-career African investigators. METHODS To date, BIG Cat has provided 18 awards of up to $50,000 to support 2-year cancer research projects. In 2017, the National Cancer Institute evaluated BIG Cat’s early outcomes for cancer research and impacts on career development and local cancer research capacity. Data collection consisted of a review of project documentation and a survey fielded to the 12 investigators who had completed their BIG Cat awards. RESULTS BIG Cat–supported research projects have generated locally relevant findings that address a range of cancer sites and multiple areas of scientific interest. The 11 survey respondents produced 43 scholarly products (e.g., publications, presentations) about findings from their BIG Cat research. They reported increases in cancer research funding applications and awards after receipt of the BIG Cat award compared with before the award. They also reported increased resources for cancer research, participation in teaching and mentoring on cancer research, and supervision of cancer research staff. Investigators identified scientific mentoring as a key facilitator of the success of their BIG Cat projects and limited time and funding as key challenges. CONCLUSION Findings provide early evidence that BIG Cat advanced locally relevant cancer research and facilitated career advancement and development of local cancer research capacity. Findings have implications for the design of future related efforts.

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