Responsible Authorities Research Articles

A study on awareness regarding cigarettes and other tobacco products act (COTPA Act) among hospital staff of medical college, Kanpur: A mixed method study

ABSTRACT Context: In 2003, the government of India formulated “the cigarettes and other tobacco products Act (prohibition of advertisement and regulation of trade and commerce, production, supply, and distribution) (COTPA)”. The aim of the study is to evaluate hospital staff’s knowledge of the COTPA Act and their enablers and hurdles using qualitative analysis. Settings and Design: This study was conducted in GSVM Medical College, and this was a convergent parallel mixed-methods study, with a quantitative component (cross-sectional survey) complemented by a qualitative component (descriptive study). Methods and Material: A pre-tested, semi-structured, face-validated questionnaire was incorporated into the Epicollect5 application for data collection. The qualitative study was conducted among 11 hospital staff. Statistical Analysis Used: The collected data were imported into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and analysed with Jamovi version 2.0. To determine associations between variables, appropriate tests of significance were applied. For qualitative analysis, an interview guide was prepared. Results: On quantitative analysis, hospital personnel’s overall awareness of any tobacco control law was 59.4%, with 56.6% being tobacco abusers and 69.5% being non-abusers. On qualitative analysis by in-depth interview framework analysis, decalogues were taken from the responses provided by the participants. After that, the decalogues were divided into three keynotes which were openers, hurdles, and recommendations. Conclusions: Study demonstrates that more than half of the employees are already aware of COTPA Act but still need more coordinated effort from all responsible authorities of medical institute to increase COTPA Act awareness.

Публично-правовая ответственность: оценка современных взглядов в контексте утверждающегося в конституционной практике инновационного подхода

The postulation of the modern state as legal at the same time means the ability of a citizen to make public legal claims to the government as a whole and its power institutions. In relation to modern Russia, the problem of legally correct (responsible) behavior of the state and the entire system of public authorities in relations with citizens is fundamentally new. For a long time, the prevailing ideology of immunity of the state and other powerful public legal structures from responsibility turns out to be very «tenacious» in relation to new state-legal realities. Accordingly, the problem of responsibility of the state and public authorities for the violation of fundamental human and civil rights and freedoms in the specialized literature is considered mainly in the context of positive legal (political) responsibility outside of protective and coercive tools. It is obvious that overcoming views rooted in theory and practice predetermines the formation of a well-established mechanism of legal responsibility of public authorities in the state legal system as the most important guarantee of constitutional and legal protection (and protection) of fundamental rights and freedoms, countering corrupt behavior of public law officials, and the formation of trust in government institutions in society among the broadest segments of the population. The study of the problem of public liability in this sense is indeed one of the priorities of modern legal science, is a kind of its response to the challenges of the developing constitutional practice of modern Russia.

Use of linear transportation infrastructure rights-of-way as an ecological shelter: National asset estimate and stakeholder involvement

For a number of years, the rights-of-way (ROW) of several types of linear transportation infrastructure (LTI), such as roads, railways, waterways and power lines, have been regarded as possible shelter for biodiversity, notably local flora and entomofauna. For developing an informed general management policy of such an opportunity for species conservation and landscape connectivity, a fundamental prerequisite is to be aware of the ecological shelter potential available within LTI rights-of-way on a national scale. By considering the primary operating constraints of LTIs and their geometric characteristics, a GIS-based method was designed to approximate the linear extent and surface area of potential ecological shelter (PES), i.e. where actions could be implemented to provide sustainable shelter focused on local flora and entomofauna. At the scale of Metropolitan France, the minimum total surface area of PES amounts to 2,026 km2; and its network spans over 88,094 km (39% power lines, 34% railways, 18% roads and 9% waterways). The State is the primary landowner of PES along operated networks (particularly railways) however over half of the assets (53.8%) fall under the responsibility of local authorities, concessionary companies and private landowners (notably power lines). These findings highlight the necessary involvement of State together with LTI operators, local stakeholders and landowners through partnerships aiming to implement the ecological shelter function of rights-of-way.

Examining the Role of AI-Augmented HRM for Sustainable Performance: Key Determinants for Digital Culture and Organizational Strategy

In the wave of digitalization, organizations are increasingly focused on whether to prioritize digital culture or organizational strategy for the use of artificial intelligence (AI); there are mixed opinions, particularly when AI-augmented HRM draws attention as a tool for achieving sustainable organizational performance (SOP) in developing countries. This study aims to explore the influence of digital culture and organizational strategy on AI-augmented HRM and SOP, focusing on the mediating role of AI-augmented HRM in these relationships. To investigate the hypothesized relationships, 219 sample data were gathered from employees associated with HRM-oriented activities in Bangladesh, and SPSS 23 and AMOS software were used to test the SEM model. The results proved that digital culture has an insignificant effect and organizational strategy has a significant effect on AI-augmented HRM, and AI-augmented HRM has a substantial effect on SOP and partially mediates the relationship between organizational strategy and SOP. Based on the results, we infer that the successful implementation of AI-augmented HRM can lead to organizational sustainability in developing countries, where organizational strategy plays a pivotal role rather than digital culture. This research incorporates the resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capabilities theories, which are crucial for the groundbreaking development of the research model. The results suggest that managers and responsible authorities should prioritize organizational strategy over digital culture when implementing AI-augmented HRM systems to ensure sustainability in developing countries. However, in the long run, organizations also need to concentrate on generating digitally favorable environments.

Sexual corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Prevalence and legal norms

Sexual corruption is a socially unacceptable behavior that is extremely widespread in society, while at the same time not recognized as such, nor is it directly treated by the positive legislation. The reason for such an attitude can be found in the "normalization" of these behaviors, and consequently their toleration and non-reporting to the responsible authorities. This is a global phenomenon that has a pronounced impact on women and other vulnerable groups, and as such is also present in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). The first question that arises is how widespread this phenomenon is and the ways in which it can be determined. The second question concerns the legal regulation of sexual corruption in the positive legislation, more precisely looking at provisions that already exist in the laws in BiH. In addition, the objective of this analysis is to examine the possibility of integrating the concept of sexual corruption into relevant laws and policies, while establishing a clear distinction compared to other forms of sexual violence. In this way, the awareness of the harmfulness of the mentioned behavior would be raised and the attitude adopted that no one is obliged to suffer sexual corruption and "exercise their rights" or "avoid harmful consequences" in that way.

Food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices among food handlers in collective catering in central Morocco

Food safety is a significant challenge for countries worldwide due to the growing number of food poisoning outbreaks, particularly in the catering sector, which impacts consumer health and imposes additional economic costs on countries. The role of food handlers in restaurants is crucial for guaranteeing this safety and protecting the health of citizens. This pioneering study in central Morocco aimed to assess food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) among food handlers and to identify key factors influencing adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and effective practices. A cross-sectional study was conducted among food handlers in restaurants in Fez prefecture in central Morocco between July 2021 and January 2022 using a questionnaire survey. The results revealed that the 282 food handlers included in this study exhibited moderate levels of knowledge (65.31 %) and practices (62.91 %), and a high level of attitudes (75.61 %) towards food safety. A moderate positive correlation was observed between knowledge and practices (r = 0.291, p < 0.05), as well as between attitudes and practices (r = 0.327, p < 0.05). The most significant positive correlation was between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.907, p < 0.05). Moreover, professional experience and age significantly influenced the level of knowledge; the nature of job and work experience influenced attitudes; gender, education level, nature of work, and marital status influenced the level of practices; and training impacted them all. Nevertheless, those surveyed have knowledge gaps, particularly about cross-contamination, personal hygiene, time and temperature control, especially the temperature danger zone (between 40 °F and 140 °F), and thawing. Training programmes that emphasize these dimensions of food safety need to be implemented. The findings of this study, carried out for the first time in Fez, will provide a solid basis for further research. They will also assist responsible authorities in better understanding food safety in Morocco by selectively planning food safety training based on KAPs to prevent food poisoning and protect consumer health.

The development of flood zones

As cities develop, more and more areas are occupied by buildings and transportation infrastructure. It is only natural that urban development requires the creation of recreational infrastructure for city residents. Recreational infrastructure is essential for the proper functioning of city dwellers. Providing land for such infrastructure falls under the responsibility of local authorities. However, acquiring such land in large cities is very expensive. Therefore, areas with development restrictions become a natural space for recreational facilities. For this reason, the use of river valleys has been studied. These areas are currently used as floodplains in case of floods. The presented analyses were carried out for the city of Sandomierz. It is one of the oldest cities in Poland. The unique character of this city attracts many tourists each year. Most tourist attractions are located near the Old Town. The Old Town of Sandomierz is situated on the banks of the Vistula River. The Vistula River is the largest river in Poland. During floods it swells and the water overflows its bed. in order to protect residents from flooding, flood zones are designated, and flood embankments are constructed. Floodplains in this area occupy a significant part of the city. The research involved both geospatial and legal documentation analyses of this area. The paper proposes alternative ways of using these areas, taking into account the interests of city residents, municipal authorities, the natural environment, and institutions dealing with flood protection.

Guarantee of rights for victims in the family context within the competencies of Family Commissariats. Law 2126 of 2021

Families are the central nucleus of society; however, they face internal challenges that affect their functioning and stability, often manifesting in incidents of domestic and gender-based violence. The World Health Organization has classified this violence as a severe public health problem and a violation of human rights. To address this issue, the Congress of the Republic of Colombia enacted Law 2126 of 2021, introducing significant changes to the responsibilities of authorities in preventing, restoring, protecting, and repairing the rights of victims. This law provided a three-year implementation period for territorial entities, which concluded on 4 August 2023. In 2023, 119,483 cases were reported, and by June 2024, the number had reached 63,528—the highest recorded to date. This situation continued to escalate uncontrollably throughout 2024, overwhelming functional capacity and resulting in a crisis. Therefore, the objective of this study is to analyze the guarantee of rights for victims of violence in the family context, within the competencies of Family Commissariats, as outlined in Law 2126 of 2021. The methodology focuses on analyzing academic and scientific databases, including studies and articles published in indexed journals, to evaluate government measures and describe the challenges in service provision by Family Commissariats to propose conclusions. The approach is qualitative, with a hermeneutic, documentary, legal-dogmatic orientation and anthropological contributions. The results reveal that the law’s implementation has been gradual, surpassing the established deadline. Administrative, political, and financial factors identified over the three years remain unresolved in 2024. The situation for victims of physical, psychological, economic, and sexual violence within the family context has worsened due to multicausal obstacles to accessing justice in a timely, efficient, and effective manner. Consequently, there is evidence of an exponential increase in violence, underreporting, impunity, setbacks, procedural delays, normalization of violence, and re-victimization, among other issues.

Government crisis communication tools in the light of the extreme drought of 2022

Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the communication of the drought (water crisis) of 2022. As water is a vital element, the alpha and omega of survival, the authors should expect the emergence of existential anxieties during related crises that may result in messages being ignored. This makes the communication of the responsible public authority even more difficult. The authors’ aim to make forward-looking recommendations for water professionals in the face of future water crises. Methodology: In order to help develop more effective crisis communication the authors analysed the National Directorate General for Water Management’s communications before, during and after the crisis (using the method of media monitoring and analysis) and carried out the evaluation based on their own criteria, which were compiled on the basis of the literature. They conclude their summary findings by making recommendations. Findings: In their opinion, although the communication of the OVF has been characterised by a rapid and accurate flow of information, the role of social responsibility should be strengthened in the future. The proportion of textual and visual content and the choice of publication channels should be reconsidered. Value: Due to the acceleration of the hydrological cycle, it is likely that in the future humanity will have to prepare for more intense periods of extreme water scarcity. According to satellite gravimetric measurements, the water security of the Carpathian Basin is changing in a negative direction. The authors’ results underline that the emerging climate crisis opens up new dimensions in governmental/authority crisis communication, both in terms of preparedness and response.

A kormányzati kríziskommunikáció eszközei a 2022. évi rendkívüli aszály tükrében

Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the communication of the drought (water crisis) of 2022. As water is a vital element, the alpha and omega of survival, the authors should expect the emergence of existential anxieties during related crises that may result in messages being ignored. This makes the communication of the responsible public authority even more difficult. The authors’ aim to make forward-looking recommendations for water professionals in the face of future water crises. Methodology: In order to help develop more effective crisis communication the authors analysed the National Directorate General for Water Management’s communications before, during and after the crisis (using the method of media monitoring and analysis) and carried out the evaluation based on their own criteria, which were compiled on the basis of the literature. They conclude their summary findings by making recommendations. Findings: In their opinion, although the communication of the OVF has been characterised by a rapid and accurate flow of information, the role of social responsibility should be strengthened in the future. The proportion of textual and visual content and the choice of publication channels should be reconsidered. Value: Due to the acceleration of the hydrological cycle, it is likely that in the future humanity will have to prepare for more intense periods of extreme water scarcity. According to satellite gravimetric measurements, the water security of the Carpathian Basin is changing in a negative direction. The authors’ results underline that the emerging climate crisis opens up new dimensions in governmental/authority crisis communication, both in terms of preparedness and response.

Reviewing the Efficiency and Reality of Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, No.34 of 2005 through the Lens of Feminist Perspectives

Domestic violence is a timeless topic which has been even in the legislative discourse. This paper analyses the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, No.34 of 2005 in light of two feminist theories, namely, liberal feminism and third world feminism. Even though one may celebrate the incorporation of the above Act, it is problematic to what extent the Act satisfies its objective of prevention of domestic violence. By utilizing the Black Letter Methodology, the author finds that regardless of the Act being a gender-neutral law on its surface, in its practical application it intersects with many gendered aspects which ultimately discriminates women. Thus, the responsible authorities have not been successful in effectively addressing such inherent issues of the Act. The purpose of this study is to suggest solutions while highlighting theoretical underpinning a d justifying in reference to selected international conventions. As per the knowledge of the author this is the only Sri Lankan paper which analyses the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, No.34 of 2005 in light from feminist legal perspectives.

Management of zoonoses in research institutions - lessons learned from a Coxiella burnetii outbreak case.

When biomedical research investigates the human surgical situation in the need of a chronic course, it is more often possible to do so using large animal models. The use of farm animals always poses special challenges for the institution conducting the research in terms of infection prevention and occupational safety. Especially for the zoonotic disease coxiellosis it is important to be aware of the constant risk of pathogen introduction by small ruminants and to take appropriate precautions. In this way, personal injury should be avoided or at least be kept to a minimum in the event of infection since then sustainable zoonosis control can be immediately initiated. Using the example of a Q fever outbreak at a research facility, we want to share with this extended case report the importance of central emergency structures, provisions and the inclusion of relevant experts and disciplines in a crisis team. Its primary purpose is to support the affected facility and coordinate the implementation of necessary cleaning, disinfection and decontamination measures in close contact with the responsible local authorities. The aim is to inactivate the pathogen in a systematic and controlled manner in few steps of action only and to keep the interruption of the facility's operations as short as possible.

Fraudulent Food Products Outbreak in South Africa: a Conundrum for Food Control Authorities

The concept of food fraud or food adulteration has become increasingly important in recent years, as it not only serves as a means for perpetrators to make quick money but also poses significant risks to consumer health. This threat is often fuelled by the use of unmonitored or unregulated ingredients. The rise in food fraud can be attributed to various factors, including the demand for specific food products, inadequate monitoring of food production, poor border management for food control, and the opportunities presented by free trade and entrepreneurship. To gain insights into the extent of food fraud, a review of reported cases from 2015 to 2024 was conducted, focusing on well-known cases in South Africa during this period. The review also examined the products typically implicated in food fraud, and identified the responsible authorities tasked with regulating the manufacturing, handling, and distribution of these products in South Africa. The findings indicate that food fraud is on the rise, with fraudsters becoming increasingly adept at concealing the illegitimacy of their products. While food adulteration may involve the use of uncertified ingredients, the most fraudulent activities occur in uncertified facilities and during processing steps. One of the challenges in controlling food fraud is the fragmentation of regulations and responsible authorities for enforcing these regulations. Over 94% of regulatory requirements identified in six regulatory authorities were found to be duplicated in some way, resulting in an unclear mandate for the industry. To address this issue, a new approach is needed to centralize food control plans in South Africa. This approach should facilitate proper recording, investigation, and resolution of complaints. Additionally, unified regulations, capacity building for authorities, and consumer awareness plans are necessary. A similar approach to the blitz inspection by bringing together food authorities, consumers, and the industry in a single forum to conduct inspection and enforcement and act against food fraud. While this is a good proactive response, however, keeping its momentum could not always be available. Key words: Foods fraud, regulations, illegal, adulteration, food, facilities, food control, fragmentation

Sustainable Projects by Local Governments in Turkey for Street Animals: An Evaluation and Forward- Looking Recommendations

In Turkey, local governments provide services for the protection of stray animals through many different practices. The research analyses the sustainable practices and projects of local governments, which are legally considered to be the main responsible authorities, for stray animals and develops concrete policy recommendations for the future. In this context, the activities of the three largest local governments in Turkey, namely Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir, where a large part of Turkey's population lives, were analysed in detail. By applying to three major local governments from official sources, their activities for the protection of stray animals have been reached. In light of these data, very different practices and projects were encountered. Although the names of the practices and projects are different, it has been seen that the view of the problem of stray animals is the same. The research proposes an alternative application to the struggle of animals for life on the streets and the practices that support this struggle. This solution proposal is both more humane than existing projects and saves animals from the dangers on the streets. In addition, the suggestions are more sustainable than the existing projects.

Preferences and valuation of small-scale wastewater treatment system maintenance using discrete choice method: Case of community-managed system in Jakarta, Indonesia

The focus of public service delivery on sustainability and universal access has enabled the enactment of many community-based programs in Indonesia. However, relevant studies that examine the willingness to pay among households that utilize community-managed facilities are lacking, despite it being one of the most important factors for maintenance and a strong indicator of commitment. In the present study, we aimed to estimate household users' preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) to understand their demand for related services. It estimates household user preferences and willingness to pay to understand the demand for related services through a choice experiment. By comparing all service attributes, the results highlight that users derive the highest utility if they updated reactors and pipelines, and, conversely, if the responsible authority is changed. The desire for quality improvement and service expansion were confirmed using this model. The mixed model estimated a willingness to pay of 0.03–3.13 USD for average users, depending on the attributes. Our findings confirm that families who belong to a community that operates a decentralized system derive greater benefits from improved maintenance; thus, they are willing to pay more to enjoy the service. Notably, at its core, a community-managed system, such as the Sanimas Program, is a co-production initiative between multiple levels of government institutions and local residents. Therefore, maintenance actions should involve resource- and payment-intensive efforts, such as half-year sanitary desludging and system replacement owing to deterioration and hazards. Policy regulations that correct the distribution of roles among partners for maintaining the system should be initiated. These findings provide evidence for the government's commitment to the community and could help convince other stakeholders to redirect their attention to supporting sustainable system performance.

A review of antibiotic misuse and bacterial resistance in Iraq

Background: Antimicrobial resistance poses a serious threat to healthcare globally. Reviewing current practice regarding antibiotic prescription and use is crucial to understanding antimicrobial resistance issues in Iraq and how to tackle them. Aim: To review and analyse studies addressing antimicrobial resistance as well as antibiotic prescription, dispensing and use in Iraq. Methods: In June 2023, we searched Google Scholar for, and reviewed, empirical studies related to antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance in Iraq. Results: Thirty-seven eligible studies published between 2012 and 2023 were included in the review. Multi-drug-resistant bacteria, such as E. coli and P. aeruginosa, were commonly reported by the studies. Most physicians in public hospitals prescribed antibiotics frequently and empirically without relying on culture and sensitivity tests, and community pharmacists often dispensed antibiotics to patients without prescriptions, indicating self-medication and misuse of antibiotics in Iraq. Antibiotic residuals were found in raw meat and drinking water. Although there were antimicrobial resistance control regulations and plans, they were not fully implemented. Conclusion: This review shows that antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic misuse are serious problems in Iraq. The responsible authorities should work together to implement and enforce compliance to the antimicrobial resistance control plans using the One Health approach.

A review of antibiotic misuse and bacterial resistance in Iraq.

Antimicrobial resistance poses a serious threat to healthcare globally. Reviewing current practice regarding antibiotic prescription and use is crucial to understanding antimicrobial resistance issues in Iraq and how to tackle them. To review and analyse studies addressing antimicrobial resistance as well as antibiotic prescription, dispensing and use in Iraq. In June 2023, we searched Google Scholar for, and reviewed, empirical studies related to antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance in Iraq. Thirty-seven eligible studies published between 2012 and 2023 were included in the review. Multi-drug-resistant bacteria, such as E. coli and P. aeruginosa, were commonly reported by the studies. Most physicians in public hospitals prescribed antibiotics frequently and empirically without relying on culture and sensitivity tests, and community pharmacists often dispensed antibiotics to patients without prescriptions, indicating self-medication and misuse of antibiotics in Iraq. Antibiotic residuals were found in raw meat and drinking water. Although there were antimicrobial resistance control regulations and plans, they were not fully implemented. This review shows that antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic misuse are serious problems in Iraq. The responsible authorities should work together to implement and enforce compliance to the antimicrobial resistance control plans using the One Health approach.

Strategic Directions for Strengthening Sustainability of Forestry Workforce

Today in many countries and regions, forestry sector deals with a considerable shortage of forestry workers and faces the serious challenge of ensuring a qualified and sustainable workforce. Current global processes and structural changes, such as emigration from rural areas, aging of the population, unfavorable age structure of existing employees, negative demographic trends (migrations, decline in birth rate, negative natural increase, etc.), lack of interest in the so-called 3D (dirty, dangerous and demeaning) jobs, low cost of labor and others, significantly contribute to such an adverse situation. Additionally, forestry work, especially wood harvesting, represents a very risky, professionally highly demanding and physically extremely intensive activity, which is regularly classified as one of the most dangerous occupations with a high proportion of serious injuries, fatalities and occupational diseases. For these reasons, the forestry profession is considered unattractive, and the job of a forestry worker undesirable. All of this makes finding the people interested in these jobs very difficult, and the task of ensuring the necessary workforce for all regular activities in sustainable forest management becomes very hard. In this paper, based on the surveys carried out in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FB&amp;amp;H), i.e. evaluation of forestry workforce sustainability factors, and on the study of available strategic documents, policies and case studies, strategic directions aimed at strengthening the sustainability of forestry workforce were elaborated. The sustainability factors were observed in three categories related to: a) stronger recruiting in forestry, b) more successful retention of forestry workers, and c) higher work commitment of forestry workers. Established rankings, together with other findings, were used to define four separate strategic directions: (1) Direct financial strategy, which emphasizes direct monetary payments to workers and is oriented towards labor productivity, (2) Indirect financial strategy, which focuses more on providing indirect material gains to workers and the quality of performed work, (3) Educational strategy, aimed at the education and training of workers, and (4) Technical-technological strategy, aimed at increasing the mechanization in forest operations thus reducing the demand for labor. The paper elaborates the basic starting points and main characteristics (priorities, measures and activities, stakeholders, responsible authorities, etc.) of each strategic direction considering the possibility and conditions of their implementation in national forestry sector. The objective of the paper is to raise the required awareness of the forestry workforce issues, its position and status, and also to provide foundations for enhancing the attractiveness of forestry work and improving the overall sustainability of the forestry workforce. The results of the study point out the critical issues and provide valuable insights that can help in formulating effective policies and strategies for the future.

Pathogenicity of Newcastle Disease Virus Isolated from Ethiopia

Newcastle disease represents an enormous problem for African breeders, and country-specific fears and economic exchanges complicate its elimination and control. Slow laboratory diagnosis creates additional delays during initial epidemic discovery. To address these concerns, researchers undertook a study in Ethiopia to examine the impact of the circulating Newcastle disease virus on chicken farms. The aim of the study is to identify the virus from likely outbreak cases, confirm its pathogenicity, and evaluate its effects on vaccinated and uninfected chicks Forty chicks were separated into 02 groups and exposed to 02 virus samples at the National Veterinary Institute in Bishoftu, Ethiopia. The isolated viruses were classified as velogenic, with the BOG strains scoring 1.67 and the HAR strains rating 1.55. Immunized chicks demonstrated high herd immunity, while single immunization failure was observed. In the challenged group, the death rate was 55%, with all 20 unvaccinated chicks dying from the sickness, whereas just 2 out of 20 vaccinated chicks were afflicted. Statistical analysis showed that the virus produced general inflammation, which was more common in the BOG group (87.50%) than in the HAR group (12.50%). Vaccination significantly reduced clinical signs and gross lesions, such as irritation in multiple organs. The study showed the persistence of velogenic Newcastle disease virus strains in Ethiopia and the importance of vaccination. The findings have improved our understanding of the disease's physiopathology and provided vital information for responsible authorities to implement early intervention techniques.

Multi-layered factors contribute to irrational use of antibiotics among pediatric patients in Tanzania: ADDO dispensers perspective

BackgroundAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health problem affecting both current and future generations. Development of resistance to the commonly available antibiotics has been directly linked to their irrational use. The World Health Organization (WHO) has clearly stated on the Global Strategy on AMR, judicious antibiotic use as well as adequate knowledge and awareness about AMR, as important tools in curbing the existing problem. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the level of knowledge among accredited drug dispensing outlet (ADDO) dispensers on factors contributing to irrational use of antibiotics among Tanzanian pediatric patients.MethodsA qualitative study employing focused group discussions was conducted among 6–10 ADDO dispensers with at least 6 months dispensing experience in 14 regions between July and August 2020. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.ResultsFindings from this study indicate that the ADDO dispensers have adequate knowledge on antimicrobial resistance. Participants were aware of the general meaning and the use of antimicrobials. They were aware that antimicrobials are used for treating infections caused by microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Participants knew AMR increases health related costs and that the increasing burden of AMR is not an outcome of a specific group of people such as health care providers or patients, rather a contribution of many factors that bring change in microorganism behavior. Despite this knowledge, participants felt that most of the private health care facilities are profit-oriented; they practice polypharmacy to maximize profit rather than focusing on providing quality health services. Participants revealed that dose shortage after symptomatic relief strongly contributes to AMR. Lastly, the ADDO dispensers expressed that continuous medical education and community education to patients is necessary in the efforts to fight against AMR.ConclusionsTo mitigate the increasing AMR burden in our society, integrated interventions must include both communities, ADDOs as first point of contact and other healthcare providers. Periodic refresher training with an emphasis on proper practices is crucial to help the dispensers transform their knowledge into action. Responsible authorities should ensure that ADDOs and other private health care facilities adhere to regulations.