Regions Of Country Research Articles

Knowledge about metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease among the medical professionals from countries in the MENA region

Introduction and ObjectivesGiven the substantial burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), there is an urgent need to assess knowledge and awareness levels among physicians. We assessed MASLD knowledge among healthcare providers from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Türkiye. Materials and MethodsTwo global surveys containing 54–59 items assessed awareness and knowledge of MASLD/NAFLD- one was for hepatologists and gastroenterologists, and the second was for non-specialists (e.g. endocrinologists, primary care providers [PCPs], and other healthcare professionals). Data were collected using an electronic data collection form. Knowledge scores and variables associated with higher knowledge scores were compared across all specialties. ResultsA total of 584 physicians completed the survey (126 hepatologists, 178 gastroenterologists (GEs), 38 endocrinologists, 242 PCPs/others). Practice guidelines were the primary source for knowledge across all specialties (43–51%), then conferences (24–31%) except PCPs/others who selected the internet as the second common source (25%). Adherence to societal guidelines varied by specialty (81–84% of specialists vs 38–51% of non-specialists). Hepatologists and GEs showed similar mean knowledge scores (51–72% correct answers across three knowledge domains, p > 0.05); endocrinologists outperformed PCPs/others in knowledge scores in all knowledge domains, including Epidemiology/Pathogenesis (72% vs. 60%), Diagnostics (73% vs. 67%), and Treatment (78% vs. 67%) (all p < 0.01). Hospital-based practice and seeing a greater number of patients with MASLD/NAFLD were identified as independent predictors of higher knowledge scores among specialists (both p < 0.05). ConclusionsA knowledge gap in the identification, diagnosis, and management of MASLD/NAFLD was found despite the growing burden of MASLD/NAFLD in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Türkiye. Education to increase awareness is needed.

Optimising HIV spending in 12 eastern European and central Asian countries: a modelling study

The eastern European and central Asian (EECA) region has the fastest growing HIV epidemic globally. We aimed to identify how HIV resources could be allocated for maximum health impact. Between Aug 1 and Dec 23, 2022, allocative efficiency analyses were undertaken for 12 countries in the EECA region (Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Serbia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan) using HIV epidemic models developed with Optima HIV. Country models were calibrated to demographic, epidemiological, and programmatic data and validated by national teams. Three scenarios were projected from 2023 to 2030: status quo (continued 2021 spending on HIV programmes); optimised allocation of different spending envelopes to minimise HIV infections and deaths; and achieving 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets by 2030. Aggregated across the 12 models, HIV infections attributable to sexual transmission were estimated to surpass those attributable to transmission through injecting drugs in 2018, with male-to-male sexual transmission accounting for a continuously increasing share. In the status quo scenario, there were an estimated 111 520 (95% CI 28 960-208 270) new HIV infections and 34 530 (17 280-57 410) HIV-related deaths between 2023 and 2030. Aggregated optimisation results suggest that 35 860 (32%) of 111 520 new HIV infections and 9170 (27%) of 34 530 HIV-related deaths could be averted from 2023 to 2030 compared with the status quo, by prioritising antiretroviral therapy and targeted key population programmes. For ten countries, achieving 95% diagnosis was projected to not be possible with the current budget envelope, and for seven countries, this target could require more than three times the current spending. Compared with the status quo, achieving 95-95-95, or as close as possible, could avert 70 880 (64%) of 111 520 new HIV infections and 18 890 (55%) of 34 530 HIV-related deaths from 2023 to 2030. Targeted key population programmes should remain high priorities in the EECA region. Achieving 95-95-95 will require more emphasis on implementing appropriate modes of service delivery that reduce the gap in diagnosis and treatment coverage for people living with HIV. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. For the Russian translation of the summary see Supplementary Materials section.

Integrated Sequence Stratigraphic and Seismic Facies Analysis for Hydrocarbon Prospectivity of the Taranaki Basin, New Zealand

This study analyses the hydrocarbon potential and basin characteristics of the Taranaki Basin in New Zealand, the country's primary petroleum-producing region. The research, which uses a robust methodology involving 2D seismic data, well logs, and other geological information, examines the basin's stratigraphy, structural features, and petroleum systems. Key findings include the identification of two genetic sequences with associated system tracts, multiple reservoir and source rock units, and both structural and stratigraphic trapping mechanisms. Seismic facies analysis revealed eight distinct facies types which characterize the depositional environments. Play fairway mapping identified sweet spots where all petroleum system elements overlap. Risk assessment highlighted factors like gas chimneys and fault-compromised seals. The study concludes by presenting the geologic chance of success for three identified plays and one prospect in different stratigraphic intervals. This comprehensive analysis provides new insights into the under-explored portions of the Taranaki Basin and its hydrocarbon potential. By enhancing the understanding of the basin's stratigraphic architecture and depositional history, this study aims to improve reservoir distribution and quality predictability. Moreover, integrating seismic facies analysis with sequence stratigraphy offers a robust tool for delineating potential hydrocarbon-bearing zones, thereby reducing exploration risk and aiding the efficient reassessment of existing prospective zones and future exploration efforts.

Effect of smart city construction on an urban transition to a low-carbon economy: evidence from China.

China is currently in a new era of an urban transition to a low-carbon economy and digital economic development. Smart cities, as an advanced form of information-based urban development, may be the key to the urban transition to low-carbon emissions. This paper examined the effect of smart city construction (SCC) on urban low-carbon transitions and its transmission mechanisms in China from the dual perspectives of reducing urban total carbon emissions (TCE) and improving urban total-factor carbon emission efficiency (TFCEE). Utilizing a multi-period difference in differences (DID) method, this study was conducted based on panel data of 245 Chinese prefecture-level cities from 2003 to 2021. The results demonstrated that SCC both reduced TCE and enhanced TFCEE. The effects of SCC were stronger in cities with more stringent environmental regulations. SCC achieved the dual effect of reducing TCE and enhancing urban TFCEE by promoting green technological progress and a low-carbon transformation of city residents' lifestyles. Moreover, optimization of the industrial structure was also a transmission mechanism for SCC to improve TFCEE. These conclusions provide an empirical basis for the SCC to empower low-carbon transitions of cities and help countries in different regions to transform the extensive urban development mode and promote urban low-carbon economic development.

Prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Its Associated Risk Factors among Medical Students in Two Countries.

PCOS, a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, affects fertility and increases the risks of other diseases. Early detection, risk factor assessment, and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term complications. This study was conducted using a pre-validated questionnaire at two medical colleges in the UAE and Oman. The first study (UAE) results are already published. Here, we present the findings of the second study (Oman) and compare them. The prevalence of PCOS was 4.6% (n = 7) in Oman and 27.6% (n = 69) in the UAE using the NIH criteria. The most common symptoms were irregular periods, acne, and thinning of hair. Students showed acne as the most prevalent symptom of clinical hyperandrogenism. Omani students showed significantly more acne [70.1% (n = 108) vs. 41.6% (n = 104)], while Emirati students showed a higher prevalence of hirsutism [32% (n = 80) vs. 23.3% (n = 36)]. A higher number of students had irregular periods 30.8% (77/150) in the UAE, although the difference was not statistically significant. The prevalence of PCOS was significantly higher in Emirati medical students than in Omani students (p < 0.05). The prevalence was also lower among medical students in Oman compared to an unselected population, reported by a study that included all consecutive women between 12 and 45 years of age attending a hospital. An increased trend in unhealthy lifestyle practices was observed in the recent study. Obesity was a strong predictor of PCOS symptoms across the populations in both countries (p < 0.05). The prevalence of PCOS and clinical signs of hyperandrogenism vary significantly between countries in the MENA region. There is a need to identify specific risk factors associated with PCOS in different populations, explore the genetic basis, and undertake collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals from various disciplines to raise awareness about PCOS and its associated risks.

Exploration of radical chemistry, precursor sensitivity and O3 control strategies in a provincial capital city, northwestern China

As the core city in northwestern China, Xi'an has suffered from serious O3 pollution in recent years. An observational model, coupled with the Master Chemical Mechanism (V3.3.1) and comprehensive data, analyzed atmospheric oxidation capacity (AOC), O3 formation mechanism, precursor sensitivity and control strategies in Xi'an. The study examined two periods (period I and II), with notable temperature and humidity differences. Despite lower precursor levels in period I, an O3 episode (peak value: 102.68 ppb) occurred only in period I, highlighting the crucial influence of meteorological conditions. Higher removal rate of primary pollutants occurs in period I, but meteorological conditions may not alter the dominant factor of AOC. Period I exhibited markedly high OH reactivity, with aromatics, alkenes, and NOx being the main contributors. HONO photolysis (50.78%) in the morning and O3 photolysis (34.13%) in the afternoon were the main HOx sources in period I, while HONO photolysis (62.86–80.68%) was significant at daytime for period II. Higher temperatures in period I accelerated all reaction rates involved in radical cycling, especially emphasizing RO2 + NO → RO + NO2. The results of sensitivity analysis showed that O3 sensitivity regime is VOC-limited in Xi'an, but the specific reactive species target VOC reductions emissions exhibited discrepancies for two distinct periods. A 20% decrease in VOCs and a 50% decrease in NOx (VOCs/NOx = 0.4) was proposed to be the optimal solution to achieve the O3 control target in period I. This study enhances our understanding of O3 formation under different meteorological conditions and provides scientific evidence for O3 pollution abatement policies in northwestern China, with potential applicability to other cities in this region and similar countries.

CEO political connections and OFDI of Chinese firms under the Belt and Road Initiative

Since the Chinese government proposed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2013, Chinese firms have been actively investing in countries participating in BRI. What kinds of firms are willing to respond to this geopolitical policy? According to resource dependence theory and resource-based view, this study examines the impact of CEO political connections on outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) in the context of BRI and its boundary conditions. The results show that CEO political connections can promote firm OFDI under BRI. However, a good institutional environment in the home region and host country weakens the positive impact of CEO political connections. Furthermore, central state ownership has a substitute role for CEO political connections.

Region Wise Relationship Between Population Density, Urbanization, And Growth Between Countries And Economic Systems Of The World

Countries across the world have different histories, cultural and social ethos and of course, different economic systems. Some countries are prosperous while many others are not. People in developed countries have a much better standard of living compared to those countries which are developing or are yet to reach even that stage. However, some countrieshave witnessed tremendous growth and development over the last few decades. The time period considered for this study is from 1960 to 2020 – for sixty years. The purpose of this study is to first understand whether certain parameters like density of population, degree of urbanization etc. has any correlation with the prosperity of the countries as measured by GDP per capita. Then representative countries from different regions of the world were chosen, totally numbering around fifty. These countries were then, as a region, studied further with the help of regression analysis and ANOVA. The data for the entire work was obtained from World Bank and similar other sources. Analysis showed that there is indeed a correlation between population density, level of urbanization etc. with the dependent variable, GDP per capita growth percentages. The status of the individual countries was studied, and it was also found that there is no significant difference in terms of GDP per capita growth percentages between the countries in the same region. There are, however, differences between countries in the same region in terms of GDP per capita and other parameters

US–Afghanistan Relations Post-withdrawal: Is There a Future?

Since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, no country, including the United States (US), has yet recognised the former. The US has consistently urged the regime to comply with the Doha agreement that emphasised an inclusive government. Moreover, the Biden administration has repeatedly asked the regime to respect human rights and allow girls education and employment, but in vain. What explains the divergences in US–Afghanistan relations post-withdrawal? What is the trajectory of the US–Taliban ties in the current context? Above all, is there any possibility of the US recognition of the Taliban regime in the foreseeable future? Based on primary data, it is posited that the relations between the US and the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan are divergent and currently antagonistic due to the Taliban’s non-compliance with the Doha agreement. Futuristically, the study explores three scenarios to predict US–Afghanistan relations. First, there is a likelihood of US–Afghanistan rapprochement if the Taliban do the US bidding. Second, in cases of non-compliance, the US would get tough on the regime in terms of further sanctions. However, the Taliban would consolidate (informal) ties with China, Russia and other regional countries, including Pakistan. Third, the US has the military capabilities to do regime change in Afghanistan in case of another 9/11-type incident in the US.

Effect of Climate Change on Wetland Areas in West Iraq Using Satellite Data and GIS Techniques

Iraq is considered to amongst those countries in the Middle Eastern region that are most exposed to the effects of climate change, which will have notable effects on wet areas and lakes. Natural or industrial water resources must be paid particular attention due to their importance in preserving environmental and biological systems, in addition to their economic and social importance. As a result of the effects of climatic change, water resources in Iraq have seen a multitude of changes. The aim of this study is to determine changes in the wetland area around AL-Razzaza Lake, Karbala province, Iraq, during the years 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2023. Landsat 5 satellite data from 2000, 2005, and 2010, and Landsat 8 and 9 data for 2015 and 2023, respectively, were used in this analysis, which was conducted using NDWI as a free, open-source program (ArcMap 10.8) to detect these changes; NDWI is a natural water anisotropy index used to detect the surface area of bodies of water in satellite images. The results revealed a clear decrease throughout the study period, as the wetland area of the lake in 2000 was 1189.7 km2, which represents a decrease of 34.3% compared to the total area of the lake (1810 km2); it decreased by 52.7% in 2005 (855.5 km2) and continued to decrease for 2010, 2015, and 2023, by 79.2%, 80%, and 85%, (376.5 km2, 362.9 km2, and 270.4 km2, respectively). The wetland area of Al-Razzaza Lake decreased between 2000 and 2023 by 919.3 km2, that is, an average of 40 km2per year. It was found that the lake wetland area sharply declined over the study period due to a lack of water surface resources via the Euphrates River, as well as climatic changes and poor water resource management. It is anticipated that the lake will lose more than half its current wetland area by 2040 if the current decline continues. These results are considered important in terms of preparing a strategic plan to preserve water bodies and wet areas in Iraq, including Al-Razzaza Lake. Remote sensing and GIS technologies have played a major and essential role in detecting such changes. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-09-013 Full Text: PDF

Analysis of the provisions of the legislation of Georgia and Ukraine related to mobilization

Russian military aggression against Ukraine continues for the eleventh year. Terrorist in methods and neo-colonial in essence – now it has acquired an existential character. Russia considers regaining its influence on the post-Soviet territories, among which Ukraine occupies a special place, as one of the priorities of its foreign policy. The first phase of the war, which began in 2014, did not stop the integration of Ukraine into the Euro-Atlantic space, so the full-scale aggression, which began on February 24, 2022, was supposed to finally resolve the issue of the existence of an independent Ukraine. The political goals of the so-called «special military operation» were to change the political system and the Euro-Atlantic course of Ukraine. In the third year of the full-scale invasion, according to the determination of the top military leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (hereinafter referred to as the Armed Forces of Ukraine), the war has reached the level of a protracted positional war, and in order to confront the enemy, Ukraine needs international assistance and the mobilization of all available resources: military, economic, and the most valuable – human. The analysis of the defense legislation of Georgia is of interest in view of the common colonial past of Ukraine and Georgia, the identical starting principles of the construction of the Armed Forces, the practical experience of armed aggression by the Russian Federation (hereinafter – the Russian Federation), access to the Black Sea, the occupation of part of the sovereign territories and the legally defined Euro-Atlantic course of development. Ukraine and Georgia are also members of the subregional association of 12 countries of the Black Sea region – the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC), which increases their status in the negotiations on possible future accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (hereinafter – NATO) and the European Union (hereinafter – the EU). Ukrainian legislation in the field of defense requires normalization of issues of military service, mobilization, creation of a mobilization reserve, and reformation through codification. The updated legislation in the field of mobilization and management of mobilization resources should form the basis of the future consolidated codified act – the Defense Code of Ukraine.

Impact of the colour perception of graphic design on promoting tourist destinations of Southeast Europe

Graphic design plays a crucial role in branding and marketing in the current digital era. Digital marketing impacts the promotion of tourist destinations. Tourism has become an important and growing sector that has influenced the development of a country's economy. Colour as an element of graphic design evokes emotions and sets a certain mood for an image or graphic. The purpose of this study is to determine the role of colour perception in graphic design in promoting tourist destinations of Southeast Europe (SEE). We aim to explore the relationship between graphic design and the tourism industry in SEE countries, focusing on their tourism logos and slogans for advertising their tourist destinations. The analysis of the main characteristics of logos and slogans shows that they can be effective tools for promoting and supporting tourism in countries in the SEE region. It was observed that there is compatibility between the colours used in the logo and the country flag in 64% of the tourism logos of SEE countries. The colour green is the most commonly used colour in logo design.

Genetic diversity and epidemiological insights into cutaneous leishmaniasis in Pakistan: a comprehensive study on clinical manifestations and molecular characterization of Leishmania species.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) stands out as a significant vector-borne endemic in Pakistan. Despite the rising incidence of CL, the genetic diversity of Leishmania species in the country's endemic regions remains insufficiently explored. This study aims to uncover the genetic diversity and molecular characteristics of Leishmania species in CL-endemic areas of Baluchistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), and Punjab in Pakistan. Clinical samples from 300 CL patients were put to microscopic examination, real-time ITS-1 PCR, and sequencing. Predominantly affecting males between 16 to 30years of age, with lesions primarily on hands and faces, the majority presented with nodular and plaque types. Microscopic analysis revealed a positivity rate of 67.8%, while real-time PCR identified 60.98% positive cases, mainly L. tropica, followed by L. infantum and L. major. Leishmania major (p = 0.009) showed substantially greater variation in nucleotide sequences than L. tropica (p = 0.07) and L. infantum (p = 0.03). Nucleotide diversity analysis indicated higher diversity in L. major and L. infantum compared to L. tropica. This study enhances our understanding of CL epidemiology in Pakistan, stressing the crucial role of molecular techniques in accurate species identification. The foundational data provided here emphasizes the necessity for future research to investigate deeper into genetic diversity and its implications for CL control at both individual and community levels.

Progress in programmatic management of drug-resistant TB, WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region, 2018-2023

&lt;sec&gt;&lt;title&gt;BACKGROUND&lt;/title&gt;Since 2012, WHO has supported countries in scaling up programmatic management of drug-resistant tuberculosis (PMDT). We assessed progress and challenges to formulate recommendations for improvement.&lt;/sec&gt;&lt;sec&gt;&lt;title&gt;METHODS&lt;/title&gt;We reviewed the regional Green Light Committee (rGLC)mission reports and analysed data to describe the progression of programme indicators.&lt;/sec&gt;&lt;sec&gt;&lt;title&gt;RESULTS&lt;/title&gt;The proportion of TB patients initially tested using Xpert MTB/RIF rose from 5% in 2017 to 54% in 2022. Testing for rifampicin-resistant TB (RR-TB) increased from 4% in 2015 to 68% in 2022 among new patients and from 17% in 2015 to 94% in 2022 among those previously treated. Consequently, in 2021–2022, the number of multidrug-resistant (MDR)/RR-TB patients diagnosed increased by 29% and 84% of them were treated, accounting for 22% of estimated cases. By 2023, fourteen countries had implemented all-oral regimens, with three initiating the 6-month bedaquiline, pretomanid, linezolid, and moxifloxacin regimen (BPaL(M)). MDR/RR-TB treatment success increased from 64% in 2017 to 73% in 2020.&lt;/sec&gt;&lt;sec&gt;&lt;title&gt;CONCLUSIONS&lt;/title&gt;Eastern Mediterranean Region countries progressed in PMDT using Xpert MTB/RIF, increased diagnosis and treatment of MDR/RR-TB patients using all-oral regimens, and improved treatment success. They must now enhance diagnostic capacity using WHO-recommended diagnostics, decentralise services while integrating them into primary health care, and prioritise the BPaL(M) regimen.&lt;/sec&gt;

Legal Regulation Experience of Individual Countries of The European Region Regarding Implementation of International Standards for Ensuring Criminological and Criminal-Legal Protection of Justice

Legal Regulation Experience of Individual Countries of The European Region Regarding Implementation of International Standards for Ensuring Criminological and Criminal-Legal Protection of Justice

Navigating the impact of remittances on environmental quality in Africa: The crucial role of institutional quality

The Sub-Saharan African (SSA) region remains the world's largest recipient of remittances. Due to growing concerns over climate change issues, recent studies have examined how these financial flows have affected environmental quality. Sundry variables were controlled in such studies concerning the remittances-environment nexus, including institutional quality. Notwithstanding that remittance and institutional quality are imperative, their combined effect on environmental quality has been overlooked. The present study has inspected how remittances and institutional quality have jointly influenced environmental quality in 44 economies in the SSA region between 2000 and 2022. Using PMG-ARDL analysis, the findings revealed that remittances had a negative long-term impact on environmental quality. Conversely, the study found that institutional quality positively affected the per capita ecological footprints, as measured by the six indicators' average. Furthermore, the results indicated that improvements in institutional quality over time mitigated the adverse impact of remittances on the environment in the sampled SSA countries. Additionally, a threshold level of institutional quality effectively moderates remittances' detrimental effects on environmental quality were identified. Therefore, most regional countries must enhance their institutional quality to mitigate the negative environmental impact of remittances.

International disputes over joint oil and gas fields in the Arab East Region

The international dispute over shared oil and gas reserves is a complex global matter with political, legal, and economic implications. Oil and gas are national assets that must be carefully managed. This study has addressed an essential issue commonly arising in conflicts among the countries in the Arab East region. Multiple oil contracts have been concluded, but these are critical for establishing the necessary groundwork for exploring and investing in shared oil and gas reserves. However, the exploitation and development of these common or trans-regional fields sometimes give rise to legal and political complications, adversely affecting the equitable development and investment of these shared, cross-border resources. This study examines the primary sources of dispute in the Arab East region and the absence of peaceful and suitable resolutions for the parties involved. A comprehensive analysis using a historical, descriptive, and analytical approach revealed multiple conflicts among the Arab Mashreq region states around shared oil and gas reserves, including conflicts among Arab nations and disputes involving Iran. The intensity of these confrontations has hindered the utilization, advancement, and investment in shared resources, resulting in substantial losses for all countries involved.

The health behaviors differences among male and female school-age adolescents in the Middle East and North Africa region countries: a meta-analysis of the Global School-based Student Health Survey data.

Understanding gender disparities in adolescent health behaviors is crucial for developing targeted health promotion strategies. This study uses data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) across 17 MENA countries to analyze gender differences in adolescent health behaviors, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for both boys and girls. This meta-analysis incorporates data from recent years of the GSHS, covering 17 MENA countries. The objective was to assess and compare health behaviors between adolescent girls and boys. A random-effects model was employed to calculate odds ratios for gender comparisons in these behaviors. Statistical analyses and modeling were performed using JAMOVI software. In most MENA countries, boys consumed more vegetables compared to girls. Girls were less likely to frequent fast food establishments (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69-0.98) and generally exhibited better self-care behaviors. Boys reported a higher prevalence of physical altercations (OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.88-2.51) and were more involved in fights (OR = 3.00, 95% CI: 2.46-3.67). Girls were more likely to miss school without permission and were consistently described as kinder and more helpful across various income levels. However, in some countries such as Oman and Tunisia, boys missed school more frequently. There were no significant gender differences in parental oversight of homework or knowledge of students' activities, but girls were reported to have stronger parental relationships and better parental understanding of their problems and free time, with exceptions in Morocco and the Palestinian Territory-Gaza. Boys were more likely to engage in smoking (OR = 3.57, 95% CI: 2.69-4.76) and other substance use. Conversely, girls reported higher levels of physical inactivity and loneliness, but also demonstrated greater kindness and helpfulness in school settings and stronger parental relationships. Policymakers in the MENA region should develop and implement gender-specific interventions targeting key areas such as hygiene practices, physical activity, and substance use. By focusing on these targeted strategies, they can address the distinct health behaviors and needs of both boys and girls. Effective interventions in these areas are crucial for improving overall health outcomes and promoting healthier lifestyles, thereby enhancing adolescent health and well-being across the region.

Modelling The Role of Institutional Change In A Tourism Growth Model: A Dynamic Analysis

This study aims to investigate the dynamic relationships among foreign direct investment (FDI), financial development, tourism development, and institutional quality in selected MENA countries. The research focuses on assessing the significance of institutional quality within these interlinked dynamics and its impact on the variables under consideration. The study's objective aligns with UNSDG Goal 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies with strong institutions that support economic growth and development. The study employs a novel panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) estimation approach to analyze empirical data from 2002 to 2018. This method allows for a comprehensive examination of both short-run and long-run interactions among FDI inflows, financial development, tourism development, and institutional quality across multiple countries in the MENA region. The empirical results indicate that, in the long run, institutional quality negatively influences FDI inflows, financial development, and international tourist arrivals, while it positively impacts real GDP. In the short run, financial development was found to negatively affect real GDP, and international tourist arrivals were observed to negatively impact financial development. Additionally, institutional quality exhibited a negative effect on international tourist arrivals in the short run. Country-wise regression results showed that institutional quality positively influenced international tourist arrivals, FDI inflows, real GDP, and financial development. Furthermore, the study identifies significant unidirectional causal relationships, highlighting the pivotal role of institutional quality in economic growth and development. The study concludes that institutional quality plays a critical role in shaping the dynamics of FDI, financial development, and tourism growth. While institutional quality has a positive impact on long-term economic growth, its negative effects on FDI, financial development, and tourism in the short run suggest the need for improved governance and policy interventions.

Tracking Measles and Rubella Elimination Progress-World Health Organization African Region, 2022-2023.

Measles or rubella elimination is verified when endemic transmission of the corresponding virus has been absent for over 36 months in a defined area, in the presence of a well-performing surveillance system. This report updates the progress by 47 countries in the WHO African Region towards the goal of attaining verification of measles and rubella elimination in at least 80% of the countries of the region by 2030. We reviewed the WHO-UNICEF vaccination coverage estimates for the first and second doses of measles- and measles-rubella-containing vaccines, as well as the available coverage data for measles supplementary immunization activities, during 2022-2023. We also reviewed the measles-surveillance performance and analyzed the epidemiological trends of measles and rubella as reported in the case-based surveillance database. The WHO-UNICEF estimates of first measles vaccine dose (MCV1) and second measles vaccine dose (MCV2) coverage for the African Region for 2022 were 69% and 45%, respectively. Rubella-containing vaccines have been introduced in the routine immunization program in 32 of 47 (68%) countries as of the end of 2022, with no introductions during 2023. In 2022 and 2023, a total of 144,767,764 children were vaccinated in the region with measles or MR vaccines in 24 countries through 32 mass vaccination campaigns. The administrative coverage target of 95% was reached in only 15 (49%) of the 32 vaccination campaigns. In 2023, a total of 125,957 suspected cases of measles were reported through the case-based surveillance system, and 73,625 cases (58%) were confirmed to be measles, either by laboratory testing, by epidemiological linkage, or based on clinical compatibility. A total of 4805 confirmed rubella cases were reported, though this total represents substantial under-ascertainment. The regional incidence of measles was 60.3 cases per million population. Twenty-six countries (55%) met the targets for the two principal surveillance system performance-monitoring indicators. No country in the region has attained the verification of measles or rubella elimination as of the end of 2023. Addressing systemic problems with routine immunization and using tailored approaches to reach unvaccinated children can contribute to progress towards measles and rubella elimination. In addition, periodic and timely high-quality preventive SIAs remain a critical programmatic strategy to reach unvaccinated children.