Search

Counterfeiting of currency notes remains a persistent global challenge with extensive economic consequences. This systematic review provides a comprehensive analysis of the detection techniques employed to combat counterfeit currency, involving various countries. The aim is to synthesize and evaluate the effectiveness of these methods, highlighting on the advancements made, and classifying areas of research with respect to its security features, conventional detection techniques, fuzzy logic and image processing techniques and other methods. One of the central themes emerging from this analysis is the importance of security features in currency design. Technological advancements have catalyzed the development of advanced detection tools and automated frameworks. Researchers have explored machine learning algorithms, image processing, and data-driven approaches to detect counterfeit notes efficiently. Additionally, this systematic review identifies the significance of cross-disciplinary collaboration. It emphasizes the need for cooperation between graphic designers, printers, papermakers, and central banks to create secure currency designs and implement effective detection mechanisms. Moreover, the geographical scope of this review extends to various countries where each region faces unique challenges and employs distinct methods to detect counterfeit notes, reflecting the global diversity in counterfeit threats. As the threat of counterfeit currency continues to evolve, this case by case analysis will serve as a valuable resource for banking and financial sectors, and researchers seeking to enhance counterfeit detection strategies and safeguard economies worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The healthcare sector witnessed the occurrences and impacts of disruptions on supply chains during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Consequently, it is essential to strengthen institutional medical supply chain systems by addressing the key attributes of strategic stockpile plan renewal: flexibility, traceability and transparency, perseverance and responsiveness, global independence, and equitable access. Aim and objective: To establish a resilient supply chain integrated into the emergency management cycle by proposing a sustainable 5P Strategic Medical Stockpile model. Settings: Online evidence, available literature, and lessons learned during the COVID-19 response in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Methods: This review employed a systematic methodology of identification, selection, assessment, synthesis, and interpretation of data from peer-reviewed articles, review reports, and response frameworks spanning the years 2012 to 2020. Additionally, media reports and announcements were analyzed to determine the implications of COVID-19 on the supply chain from 2020 to 2022. Recommendations are formulated in response to the identified shortcomings revealed during the review process, as well as considering experiences and lessons resulting from responses to address COVID-19 in the Abu Dhabi Health Sector. Results: Our analysis revealed a deficiency in effective operational protocols for building a robust supply chain. The experience gained from responding to COVID-19 has highlighted deficiencies such as unclear issues with stockpiles, inadequate resources, insufficient planning, the absence of established procedures, and a lack of performance monitoring. The pandemic had a tremendous impact on health systems and medical supply chains worldwide. Our suggested model necessitates aligning responses with national contingency protocols. Accountability may fluctuate during each phase of an emergency, depending on decision-making authority and jurisdictional capabilities. Conclusion: The proposed 5P model can support policymakers, health regulators, institutions, and professionals in formulating strategies to establish a resilient stockpile system that serves as a medical supply chain buffer when supplies are not instantly accessible. [SJEMed 2024; 5(2.000): 073-080]

The importance of studying the protection of intellectual property rights in the face of modern challenges and threats, changes in Russia’s economic paradigm, and the search for new competitive advantages in the global economy is undisputed. The article aims to analyze the selected cross-border aspects of the administrative protection of intellectual property based on a review of Russian judicial practice. In this research, the formal-legal, comparative-legal, historical methods, as well as method of system analysis of the judiciary acts are used. The analysis of judicial practice in administrative cases related to intellectual property identified by the customs authorities reveals several problem areas. These issues include the competence of customs authorities in implementing customs control of goods containing intellectual property items, the use of expert procedures, the participation of the right holder in such litigation, and the exhaustion of intellectual property rights in the context of sanctions against Russia. Regarding the competence of customs authorities in the field of administrative protection of intellectual property rights, clear limits of such competence are defined, particularly in relation to the cross-border movement of goods under customs control. It is concluded that customs protection of intellectual property is limited to part of the intellectual property during cross-border movement. The article emphasizes the significant role of expert procedures in administrative cases related to intellectual property involving customs authorities. Arguments are presented against the use of opinions issued by copyright holders, and the participation of the copyright holder in the administrative protection of exclusive rights in the cross-border movement of goods is assessed. Special attention is paid to the principle of rights exhaustion and its implementation in judicial practice, particularly in the context of strengthening the sanctions regime against Russia and the partial legalization of parallel imports. The article concludes that cross-border protection of intellectual rights is positioned as an element of the entire system of legal protection of intellectual rights.

Copyright of Journal of Food Safety & Quality is the property of Journal of Food Safety & Quality Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A method for banknote identification has been developed. As a prerequisite for this process, an ATM stores records captured from accepted banknotes, including customer's information for identification. The proposed method is implemented when a counterfeit banknote is detected. The ATM identifies a record corresponding to the counterfeit banknote among the stored records, assisting in the identification of the customer who used it. This identification is carried out by exploiting characteristic differences between counterfeit and genuine banknotes. These differences are defined in terms of positions and magnitudes of variations. An experiment using simulated banknotes was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the proposed method. Additionally, another experiment involving digitally synthesized banknotes was conducted to determine the performance limits of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fintech is an industry that uses technology to enhance and automate financial services. Fintech firms use software, mobile apps, and digital technologies to provide financial services that are faster, more efficient, and more accessible than those provided by traditional banks and financial institutions. Fintech companies take care of processes such as lending, payment processing, personal finance, and insurance, among other financial services. A data breach refers to a security liability when unapproved individuals gain access to or pilfer susceptible data. Data breaches pose a significant financial, reputational, and legal liability for companies. In 2017, Equifax suffered a data breach that revealed the personal information of over 143 million customers. Combining federated learning (FL) and blockchain can provide financial institutions with additional insurance and safeguards. Blockchain technology can provide a transparent and secure platform for FL, allowing financial institutions to collaborate on machine learning (ML) models while maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of their data. Utilizing blockchain technology, FL can provide an immutable and auditable record of all transactions and data exchanges. This can ensure that all parties adhere to the protocols and standards agreed upon for data sharing and collaboration. We propose the implementation of an FL framework that uses multiple ML models to protect consumers against fraudulent transactions through blockchain. The framework is intended to preserve customer privacy because it does not mandate the exchange of private customer data between participating institutions. Each bank trains its local models using data from its consumers, which are then combined on a centralised federated server to produce a unified global model. Data is neither stored nor exchanged between institutions, while models are trained on each institution's data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Violae herba (Zihuadiding) is a common Chinese herbal medicine. The current Chinese Pharmacopeia (ChP) defines Viola yedoensis Makino as the sole plant origin and esculetin as its sole quality-marker (Q-marker). Esculetin, however, occurs in some counterfeits as well. This implies that current ChP criterion actually cannot recognize the counterfeits of V. yedoensis. The study thus created a specialized MS library using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole-orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS) analysis. Through library-comparison, 36 compounds were putatively identified from V. yedoensis; especially, four isomers were successfully distinguished, that is, vitexin vs isovitexin and schaftoside vs isoschaftoside. The subsequent UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS/MS semi-quantification suggested that the chemical contents of 36 compounds varied from 0.001 to 1.958% and the old Q-marker esculetin had high content (0.484 ± 0.028%). According to the relevant principles, flavonoid luteolin was proposed as the new and additional Q-marker. The proposal offers a preliminary evidence to recognize seven adulterations (or counterfeits) of V. yedoensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An unpublished squeeze from the collection of the École biblique, recording a dedication to the ‘Olympian Gods’ for Hadrian's sōtēria, is here presented in conversation with two closely related inscriptions, recently identified as fakes. The authenticity and provenance of the new object are carefully analysed and discussed and a conclusion cautiously in favour of its genuine antiquity is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This thesis examines the complex problem of counterfeit luxury products in Pakistan, with a specific focus on the psychological, socio-cultural, and economic elements that influence customer attitudes and intends to purchase. The increasing demand for luxury fashion is accompanied by a corresponding growth in the market for counterfeit products, creating a paradoxical situation for rising nations. The study utilizes the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) to analyze consumer motives, specifically focusing on perceived social status, value consciousness, and fashion consciousness. Using quantitative research methodology, the study uses questionnaire survey to collect data from 431 consumers. The results emphasis the interaction of cultural norms, status consumption, and price sensitivity in influencing attitudes towards counterfeit luxury items. This study highlights the economic ramifications of counterfeit markets and provides valuable information for brand managers and regulators to formulate effective ways to address this widespread problem. The study seeks to contribute to the broader discussion on luxury brand management and consumer behavior in developing nations by examining the psychological and cultural factors that drive counterfeit buying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, counterfeit, illicit, and untaxed alcoholic spirits are responsible for problems with economy, labor, and public health. Estimations of counterfeit spirits range from 25% to 40% of total alcoholic spirits consumed globally. Including knock-on effects, these products cost the EU alone 23,400 lost jobs and at least €3B in lost revenue per year. Annually there is at least €1.2B in lost government revenue. Counterfeit products decrease legitimate sales, both by replacement sales, and by the erosion of consumer product trust and satisfaction of legitimate goods and decrease legitimate manufacturing jobs. We review the worldwide problem, scope, and scale of the spirits counterfeiting problem including specific health issues, and the international plight of reduced labor available resulting directly from production and sale of counterfeited liquor. In addition, we review a wide range of methods and technologies to analytically detect chemically adulterated or substituted products that have been published and group technologies into 4 functional areas highlighting economy, generality, and utility. Approaches to prevention are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of eHumanista is the property of Professor Antonio Cortijo-Ocana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BackgroundFentanyl- and methamphetamine-based counterfeit prescription drugs have driven escalating overdose death rates in the US, however their presence in Mexico has not been assessed. Our ethnographic team has conducted longitudinal research focused on illicit drug markets in Northern Mexico since 2018. In 2021-2022, study participants described the arrival of new, unusually potent tablets sold as ostensibly controlled substances, without a prescription, directly from pharmacies that cater to US tourists.AimsTo characterize the availability of counterfeit and authentic controlled substances at pharmacies in Northern Mexico available to English-speaking tourists without a prescription.MethodsWe employed an iterative, exploratory, mixed methods design. Longitudinal ethnographic data was used to characterize tourist-oriented micro-neighborhoods and guide the selection of n=40 pharmacies in n=4 cities in Northern Mexico. In each pharmacy, samples of "oxycodone", "Xanax", and "Adderall" were sought as single pills, during English-language encounters, after which detailed ethnographic accounts were recorded. We employed immunoassay-based testing strips to check each pill for the presence of fentanyls, benzodiazepines, amphetamines, and methamphetamines. We used Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy to further characterize drug contents.ResultsOf n=40 pharmacies, one or more of the requested controlled substances could be obtained with no prescription (as single pills or in bottles) at 28 (70.0%) and as single pills at 19 (47.5%). Counterfeit pills were obtained at 11 pharmacies (27.5%). Of n=45 samples sold as one-off controlled substances, 18 were counterfeit. 7 of 11 (63.6%) samples sold as "Adderall" contained methamphetamine, 8 of 27 (29.6%) samples sold as "Oxycodone" contained fentanyl, and 3 "Oxycodone" samples contained heroin. Pharmacies providing counterfeit drugs were uniformly located in tourist-serving micro-neighborhoods, and generally featured English-language advertisements for erectile dysfunction medications and "painkillers". Pharmacy employees occasionally expressed concern about overdose risk and provided harm reduction guidance.DiscussionThe availability of fentanyl-, heroin-, and methamphetamine-based counterfeit medications in tourist-oriented independent pharmacies in Northern Mexico represents a public health risk, and occurs in the context of 1) the normalization of medical tourism as a response to rising unaffordability of healthcare in the US, 2) plummeting rates of opioid prescription in the US, affecting both chronic pain patients and the availability of legitimate pharmaceuticals on the unregulated market, 3) the rise of fentanyl-based counterfeit opioids as a key driver of the fourth, and deadliest-to-date, wave of the opioid crisis. It was not possible to distinguish counterfeit medications based on appearance of pills or geography of pharmacies, because identically-appearing authentic and counterfeit versions were often sold in close geographic proximity. Nevertheless, people who consume drugs may be more trusting of controlled substances purchased directly from pharmacies. Due to Mexico's limited opioid overdose surveillance infrastructure, the current death rate from these substances remains unknown.

Background: Substandard, falsified, unlicensed, and unregistered medicines pose significant risks to public health in developed and developing countries. This systematic review provides an overview of the prevalence of substandard, falsified, unlicensed, and unregistered medicine and its associated factors in Africa.Methods: Articles published from April 2014 to March 2024 were searched in Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase. The search strategy focused on open-access articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and studies exclusively conducted in African countries. The quality of the studies was assessed according to the Medicine Quality Assessment Reporting Guidelines (MEDQUARG). This systematic review was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA).Results: Of the 27 studies, 26 had good methodological quality after a quality assessment. Of the 7508 medicine samples, 1639 failed at least one quality test and were confirmed to be substandard/falsified medicines. The overall estimated prevalence of substandard/falsified medicines in Africa was 22.6% (1718/7592). The average prevalence of unregistered medicines was 34.6% (108/312). Antibiotics, antimalarial, and antihypertensive medicines accounted for 44.6% (712/1596), 15.6% (530/3530), 16.3% (249/1530), and 16.3% (249/1530), respectively. Approximately 60.7% (91/150) were antihelmintic and antiprotozoal medicines. Poor market regulatory permission, Free trade zones, poor registration, high demand, and poor importation standards contribute to the prevalence of these problems.Conclusion/Recommendations: Substandard, falsified, and unregistered medicines are highly prevalent in Africa, and attention has not been paid to the problem. Antibiotics, antimalarial, anthelmintic, and antiprotozoal are the most commonly reported substandard, falsified, and unregistered medicines. A consistent supply of high-quality products, enhancement of registration, market regulatory permission, and importation standards are essential to counter the problems in Africa. Preventing these problems is the primary duty of every responsible nation to save lives.

A case study was conducted to examine Malaysian perceptions of product origin in connection to counterfeit components of Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Sdn Bhd (PROTON). Some consumers regard the price of spare parts at service centres as costly, while others find it affordable. This view is formed based on individuals' prior experience with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components and the imitation parts found at non-certified service centres. The study evaluates the customers’ perception levels and the correlations of customer choice characteristics (CCC) with country of origin (COO) image towards countries that produce counterfeit spare parts, such as China, Taiwan, and Thailand. This paper adopts a phenomenological perspective and measures how customers perceive the value of their choice towards the selected country of origin. We conducted a survey among 201 PROTON customers. The findings of the study revealed that PROTON customers are more favourable towards accepting counterfeit automotive spare parts from Taiwan compared to China and Thailand in both categories, CCC and COO. The correlation evaluation was done according to Pearson’s Coefficient, which affirmed that Taiwan earns a moderate positive correlation coefficient between +0.5 and +0.7 of all 6 variable components of both CCC and COO, namely willingness to buy, attitude towards products, product evaluation, country belief, people's affect, and desired interaction. While correlation for both China and Thailand indicated a weak relationship between CCC and COO of coefficient less than 0.5 for similar variable components, all components of the CCC have a positive relationship with the COO, with all variables moving in the same direction for all three countries. Also, Taiwan’s counterfeit spare parts scored high positive perceptions among the respondents on the level of agreement and satisfaction attributes. On the contrary, this customer acceptance grants Taiwan’s spare parts manufacturers the opportunity to consider investing in the Malaysian market.

The article is dedicated to the handwritten legacy of Isaac Babel and examines the writer’s letters, inscriptions, and drawings introduced into scientific circulation in the last decade. Based on the analysis of these findings, the article concludes that all these “autographs of Isaac Babel” are hoaxes of varying degrees of persuasiveness. These results confirm the effectiveness of philological methods for recognizing falsified manuscripts of the classics of literature. The article pays special attention to the analysis of Isaac Babel’s gift inscription to Solomon Mikhoels, written partly in Yiddish. The research establishes that the text of the inscription testifies to the writer’s poor command of Yiddish, which in turn refutes the possibility of the authenticity of such an inscription as a whole. The issues considered in the article correlate with the general problems of modern textual criticism.

Abstract Background Smuggling health goods given the importance and critical nature of health services should be undeniably addressed and controlled by all countries. This issue is especially more widespread in developing countries with more damaging consequences. This paper therefore aims to identify and analyze the challenges of preventing smuggling of health goods in Iran. Method Within this qualitative study, we conducted face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with 30 purposefully recruited key informants and stakeholders in the detection, prevention, and combating of health goods smuggling. Each interview was analyzed thematically, using an inductive approach to generate codes, then categorized and presented in the form of main themes and sub-themes. Maxqda 11 assisted in coding, analysis, and data management. Results Three main themes emerged representing the challenges of prevention of smuggling in Iran in the areas of anti-smuggling policy development, including categories of inefficient policy and plan, and failure to reach agenda; policy implementation; categorized into actors, resources and instruments, and implementation guarantee; and finally monitoring and evaluation; including, procedures and practices, and the role of surveyors. Conclusion Prevention of smuggling health goods proves to be a highly complex, challenging, and multi-faceted practice. Therefore, strengthening policy-making, regulatory frameworks, and facilitation functions about smuggling, counterfeiting, and corruption should be promoted in parallel.

Background: The healthcare sector witnessed the occurrences and impacts of disruptions on supply chains during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Consequently, it is essential to strengthen institutional medical supply chain systems by addressing the key attributes of strategic stockpile plan renewal: flexibility, traceability and transparency, perseverance and responsiveness, global independence, and equitable access. Aim and objective: To establish a resilient supply chain integrated into the emergency management cycle by proposing a sustainable 5P strategic medical stockpile model. Settings: Online evidence, available literature, and lessons learned during the COVID-19 response in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Methods: This review employed a systematic methodology of identification, selection, assessment, synthesis, and interpretation of data from peer-reviewed articles, review reports, and response frameworks spanning the years 2012–2020. In addition, media reports and announcements were analyzed to determine the implications of COVID-19 on the supply chain from 2020 to 2022. Recommendations are formulated in response to the identified shortcomings revealed during the review process, as well as considering experiences and lessons resulting from responses to address COVID-19 in the Abu Dhabi Health Sector. Results: Our analysis revealed a deficiency in effective operational protocols for building a robust supply chain. The experience gained from responding to COVID-19 has highlighted deficiencies such as unclear issues with stockpiles, inadequate resources, insufficient planning, the absence of established procedures, and a lack of performance monitoring. The pandemic had a tremendous impact on health systems and medical supply chains worldwide. Our suggested model necessitates aligning responses with national contingency protocols. Accountability may fluctuate during each phase of an emergency, depending on decision-making authority and jurisdictional capabilities. Conclusion: The proposed 5P model can support policymakers, health regulators, institutions, and professionals in formulating strategies to establish a resilient stockpile system that serves as a medical supply chain buffer when supplies are not instantly accessible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing literature has examined the influence of a counterfeit on the original brand in the prior or middle purchase phases. Our work aims to expand the literature by analyzing the post‐purchase phase of counterfeit consumption. In four studies, we examine the effects of product message appeal (symbolic vs. utilitarian) and self‐construal (interdependent vs. independent) on preference changes and purchase intentions of consumers toward original products when they are caught using counterfeits. Individuals with interdependent (vs. independent) self‐construal are more likely to increase their preference and purchase intention for original products after being caught using symbolic rather than utilitarian counterfeits. Moreover, face restoration mediates the interaction effect between product message appeal and self‐construal on the purchase intent of consumers in procuring original products. The patterns are consistent in both hypothetical scenarios and counterfeit consumption experience. Our work suggests that companies or brand, whose products are often copied or imitated should pay more attention to establishing their unique characteristics and the primary value of their product delivered to the consumers through product design and marketing mix strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author comments on a study by C. Copeland and colleagues on evidence of xylaxine in the United Kingdom illicit drug market beyond heroine supplies. Topics discussed include lessons from other heroin supply disruptions including a prior Taliban opium ban in 2000 to 2001, examples that may represent evidence of a broader shift toward synthetic drugs replacing agricultural products in Europe, and observation on the widespread barriers to accessing social and health services in North America.

This article analyses several promising policies in the electronic parts industry for disrupting the flow of counterfeit electronic parts. A socio-technical electronic part supply-chain network model has been developed to facilitate policy analysis. The model is used to understand the technical and social dynamics associated with the insertion of counterfeit electronic components into critical systems (e.g., aerospace, transportation, defense, and infrastructure) and to analyze the impact of various anti-counterfeiting policies and practices. This network model is used to assess the effectiveness of mandatory original component manufacturer buyback programs and the debarment of distributors found to provide counterfeit components. In this agent-based model, each participant in the supply chain is modeled as an independent entity governed by its own motivations and constraints. The entities in the model include the original component manufacturers, distributors, system integrators, operators, and counterfeiters. Each of these entities has dynamic behaviors and connections to the other agents. Since time is an integral factor (lead times and inventory levels can be drivers behind the appearance of counterfeits), the simulation is dynamic. The model allows the prediction of the risk of counterfeits making it into an operator's system and the length of time between relevant supply-chain events/disruptions and the appearance of counterfeits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Detection of cross-border series of fraudulent identity documents. • Realistic operating conditions for cross-border comparisons. • Concrete examples highlight the investigative and crime intelligence interest. The serial character of document fraud and its connection to organised crime groups who produce, sell and/or use fraudulent documents is a challenge for security and crime fighting. As a response, the added value of forensic intelligence is increasingly recognised. Using a forensic profiling method and a dedicated system deployed in Switzerland, document examiners can detect series (i.e., documents that share a common source) of fraudulent documents conveniently and efficiently. This detection can trigger or orientate investigations, supports crime intelligence efforts, and facilitates cross-jurisdictional cooperation. This study aims to assess the suitability of the forensic profiling system for international purpose and the efficiency of the method to detect cross-border series. The forensic profiling system has been deployed in France in the framework of a cross-border pilot project conducted by the School of Criminal Justice from the University of Lausanne and the French National Police (Division Nationale de Lutte contre la Fraude Documentaire et à l'Identité) over the period July 2019–May 2020. Data from the Swiss and French forensic profiling systems were compared to each other to detect cross-border series. The study sought to create operating conditions as close as possible to the real-life conditions of the profiling systems. The results are extremely positive both quantitatively and qualitatively. They demonstrate the benefit of setting up a systematic exchange of forensic data issued from profiling systems for fraudulent identity documents between France and Switzerland, let alone between any other countries. The results open up a very promising prospect for a sustained operational implementation by the police services of both countries and the extension of the exchanges internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research aimed to pinpoint the factors shaping attitudes towards counterfeiting and how these attitudes influence the intention to purchase counterfeit products. The work tries also to take a step back from previous research contributions, to develop a model for understanding attitudes towards counterfeit products. To achieve this aim, a quantitative study was undertaken using a questionnaire survey was administered to a sample of 250 women in Algeria. To assess our hypotheses, a structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed. Findings showed that factors such as insensitivity to counterfeiting, economic considerations as well as perceived risk directly impact the attitude towards counterfeiting

Tobacco and tobacco products are in demand in Russian domestic market, which is characterized by shadow segment growth in recent years. Main share in Russian shadow tobacco market structure is represented by imported and counterfeit products. The article assesses the scale of illegal importation of tobacco and tobacco products into Russia from the Eurasian Economic Union countries (hereinafter – EAEU) in 2018–2022. The authors consider the factors contributing to illegal imports of tobacco products growth from the territories of the EAEU member states. The urgent problems of counteracting violation of the order of tobacco and tobacco products importation from the union states have been identified. Measures aimed at ensuring legality of mutual trade in the goods under consideration within the EAEU and reducing the volume of their illegal import into Russia from the territories of the Union member states have been proposed.

Abstract The present paper presents the analytical study of an unusual Peruvian 1899 dinero coin whose authenticity has been questioned since the 1970’s. This coin, which is present in some numismatic collections although there is no record of having been minted officially, has been characterized using non-destructive techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results are consistent with a cast counterfeit coin made at the turn of the 19th and 20th using a copper base alloy that was silver-platted to pass unnoticed among the public. The alloy used, generally known as german silver, was common for counterfeits in North America and Europe in that period. The historical reasons for the appearance of this unexpected coin in Peru during a time of economic difficulties, where the public experienced a shortage of small-change coins, are briefly outlined.

Abstract Background The commercial sector plays a vital role in mosquito net ownership and access in Tanzania. The National Malaria Strategic Plan (NMSP) includes long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) delivery through the commercial sector as a complementary mechanism. The NMSP aims to increase LLIN sales while decreasing untreated mosquito net sales. This survey aimed to track quantities, market share of different net categories, prices, and origins of mosquito nets in retail markets and to engage stakeholders to analyse market trends. Methods This mixed-method mosquito net retail outlet survey was conducted in mid-2021 in six and in mid-2022 in eight regions. Field teams identified net-selling outlets in major urban and peri-urban markets and used snowball sampling to identify additional outlets. A structured questionnaire was used, and photos of available mosquito net products were taken. Key informant interviews were conducted with wholesalers and retailers. The relative market share of a product was calculated by using the mean of each sales category as frequency weights. Qualitative data analysis was undertaken by summarizing common themes and observations based on the research question. Results A total of 394 and 1139 outlets were surveyed in 2021 and 2022, respectively. More than 96% of distributed brands in both years were untreated nets. The market share for untreated mosquito nets was 99.2% in 2021 and 88.3% in 2022. Bed net sales were seasonal, peaking in the rainy season and at the start of the school year. Leaked LLINs from the public sector comprised 0.3% of the market share in 2021 and 8.3% in 2022. Kigoma markets had the most significant frequency of leaked LLIN products. Legitimate LLINs were rare in 2021 (n = 2) and not found in 2022, despite the presence of a local LLIN manufacturer. A small number (n = 3) of untreated nets fabricated in China claiming to be LLINs were observed in 2022. Conclusions Despite NMCP’s strategic approach to increasing retail market share for legitimate LLINs, significant challenges remain. Efforts are needed to change the current situation given the context of large-scale public sector distributions of LLINs, the higher consumer cost of LLINs, the lack of bed net varieties. Improvement of registration process is recommended.

In recent decades, the scientific and medical literature has routinely argued that ‘fake’ drugs present a pressing threat to global health. However, this article steps back from the chorus surrounding fake drugs to ask what wider issues have been at stake in efforts to control and combat them over the last seventy years. Focusing on the World Health Organization, I present a genealogy of its engagement with fake drugs as part of its work on pharmaceutical quality, from 1948 until 2017 when the latest nomenclature of ‘sub-standard and falsified medical products’ was adopted. From 2008, the seizure by EU customs authorities of shipments of Indian generic drugs on the basis that they infringed local patents and hence were ‘counterfeit’, underlines the view that the specific terms used to describe fake drugs in global health are not neutral technical objects, but highly-charged political devices that serve the interests of particular actors.

Abstract Background This present study assesses changes in the pH as well as the metal ions that fake braces release into artificial saliva (AS) using a pH meter and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), respectively. Methods Three sets of fake archwires (AWs) and brackets (Bs) as well as a set of controls were immersed in AS and placed in an incubator shaker at 50 rpm and 37°C. At Days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28, the pH of the AS medium was measured and 3.0 ml of AS was collected and stored at -20°C for elemental analysis. Results Significant changes in pH were observed on Days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 in the AS of the AW group. However, these changes were only observed in the B group on Days 0 and 7. The fake samples released a large quantity of sodium (Na), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) ions, at concentrations exceeding 100 mg/L, post-28 days of immersion. The control and fake braces samples released other ions; such as lithium (Li), magnesium (Mg), barium (Ba), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and aluminium (Al); at concentrations that did not exceed 10 mg/L. Conclusions The pH of the AS of all the samples increased post-incubation. Only 10 ions; namely, Na, Li, K, Mg, Ca, Ba, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Al; were detected in the AS.

The article assesses the share of counterfeit products on the Russian domestic market highlighting the most counterfeited product categories. On the basis of the analysis of key indicators of the automotive parts market, preconditions for the presence of large volumes of counterfeit products in the segment have been identified. Correlation of parallel imports and the counterfeit auto parts number increase has been established. The paper presents recommendations for combating the importation of counterfeit products in the context of parallel imports. The most significant of them are the extension of digital labeling to a wide category of automotive components, establishment of domestic production of spare parts and components, stimulation of Russian manufacturers by providing targeted loans and tax incentives.

The use of archeometrical tools has shed light on the true history of the so-called “Ruckers-Taskin” harpsichord (Musical Instruments Museum, Brussels, inv. 3848), an instrument that is neither a Ruckers nor a Taskin but a French instrument from c. 1695, falsified around 1750 by Antoine Vater and ravalé by Pascal Taskin in 1774.

This article aims to help the specialists and the experts in the field of document examination, with the presentation of some cases of counterfeit/forgery travel documents for the achievement of which were used some advanced methods and techniques. So, the counterfeits become more and more advanced, trying to imitate as good as it can be, graphic elements and security features, being in trend with the latest printing techniques implemented to the genuine travel documents. Regarding forgeries, there is an increased attention given to the area of the owner's photo, which is most often subjected to the process of alteration through various procedures. In this article were used techniques, instruments and research methods such as observation, examination and comparison of documents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper presents the analytical study of an unusual Peruvian 1899 dinero coin whose authenticity has been questioned since the 1970's. This coin, which is present in some numismatic collections although there is no record of having been minted officially, has been characterized using non-destructive techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results are consistent with a cast counterfeit coin made at the turn of the 19th and 20th using a copper base alloy that was silver-platted to pass unnoticed among the public. The alloy used, generally known as german silver, was common for counterfeits in North America and Europe in that period. The historical reasons for the appearance of this unexpected coin in Peru during a time of economic difficulties, where the public experienced a shortage of small-change coins, are briefly outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of microelectronics has experienced extensive integration into various aspects of our everyday lives, evident via its utilization across a wide range of devices such as cellphones, airplanes, computers, wristwatches, and other similar technologies. Microelectronics are vital to the healthcare and defense industries, making them vulnerable to counterfeit products. Currently, the complicated global microelectronics supply chain involves the production of varied components in multiple places, resulting in tremendous risk. In this scenario, it is possible for hostile or adversarial actors to exploit the situation by intentionally introducing counterfeit components. This hostile behavior could steal data or use these components as remote kill switches. To address these problems, enormous resources are being committed to research, innovation, and development to build trust in microelectronics. This research study provides a thorough analysis of the taxonomy associated with prominent attack, detection, and avoidance models in the realm of counterfeit microelectronics. This research aims to improve our understanding of dependable microelectronics. Prevention strategies like Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) and machine learning (ML), and detection methods like aging-based fingerprints are reviewed in this study. Finally, we underscore the significance of interdisciplinary cooperation, commitment to norms, and proactive methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Preventing, detecting, and responding to substandard and falsified vaccines is of critical importance for ensuring the safety, efficacy, and public trust in vaccines. This is of heightened importance in context of public health crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, in which extreme world-wide shortages of vaccines provided a fertile ground for exploitation by falsifiers. Here, a proof-of-concept study explored the feasibility of using a handheld Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) device to authenticate COVID-19 vaccines through rapid analysis of unopened vaccine vials. The results show that SORS can verify the chemical identity of dominant excipients non-invasively through vaccine vial walls. The ability of SORS to identify potentially falsified COVID-19 vaccines was demonstrated by measurement of surrogates for falsified vaccines contained in vaccine vials. In all cases studied, the SORS technique was able to differentiate between surrogate samples from the genuine COVISHIELD™ vaccine. The genuine vaccines tested included samples from six batches across two manufacturing sites to account for any potential variations between batches or manufacturing sites. Batch and manufacturing site variations were insignificant. In conjunction with existing security features, for example on labels and packaging, SORS provided an intrinsic molecular fingerprint of the dominant excipients of the vaccines. The technique could be extended to other COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 vaccines, as well as other liquid medicines. As handheld and portable SORS devices are commercially available and widely used for other purposes, such as airport security, they are rapidly deployable non-invasive screening tools for vaccine authentication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Pandectele Române is the property of Wolters Kluwer Romania and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The commercial sector plays a vital role in mosquito net ownership and access in Tanzania. The National Malaria Strategic Plan (NMSP) includes long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) delivery through the commercial sector as a complementary mechanism. The NMSP aims to increase LLIN sales while decreasing untreated mosquito net sales. This survey aimed to track quantities, market share of different net categories, prices, and origins of mosquito nets in retail markets and to engage stakeholders to analyse market trends. Methods: This mixed-method mosquito net retail outlet survey was conducted in mid-2021 in six and in mid-2022 in eight regions. Field teams identified net-selling outlets in major urban and peri-urban markets and used snowball sampling to identify additional outlets. A structured questionnaire was used, and photos of available mosquito net products were taken. Key informant interviews were conducted with wholesalers and retailers. The relative market share of a product was calculated by using the mean of each sales category as frequency weights. Qualitative data analysis was undertaken by summarizing common themes and observations based on the research question. Results: A total of 394 and 1139 outlets were surveyed in 2021 and 2022, respectively. More than 96% of distributed brands in both years were untreated nets. The market share for untreated mosquito nets was 99.2% in 2021 and 88.3% in 2022. Bed net sales were seasonal, peaking in the rainy season and at the start of the school year. Leaked LLINs from the public sector comprised 0.3% of the market share in 2021 and 8.3% in 2022. Kigoma markets had the most significant frequency of leaked LLIN products. Legitimate LLINs were rare in 2021 (n = 2) and not found in 2022, despite the presence of a local LLIN manufacturer. A small number (n = 3) of untreated nets fabricated in China claiming to be LLINs were observed in 2022. Conclusions: Despite NMCP's strategic approach to increasing retail market share for legitimate LLINs, significant challenges remain. Efforts are needed to change the current situation given the context of large-scale public sector distributions of LLINs, the higher consumer cost of LLINs, the lack of bed net varieties. Improvement of registration process is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of the digital society, forensic analysis of signatures, in addition to the traditional analysis of signatures written with a writing medium on a common writing base, has also expanded to the analysis of signatures that are digitally scanned or digitally captured. Digitally scanned signatures represent some authentic signatures that have been scanned and implemented in the disputed document using computer technology and can in no way be considered authentic, especially if the scanning was performed by a person whose name is not signed in the disputed signature. Digitally captured signatures are gradually replacing the traditional way of signing, especially in banking transactions both within the Republic of Croatia and internationally. They become part of the modern forensic analysis of signatures and represent the authentic signatures of a person who made the writing with his own handwriting with a pen on the signature plate. The paper aims to present the latest trends in the development of technologies used for signing and also to present the latest trends in signature forgery. Additionally, in this paper, we present the possibilities of analysing such signatures in potential real situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legal protection for Nike trademark holders in the Klithikan Pakuncen market in Yogyakarta is still not effective because there is no special regulation to protect Nike trademark holders. Law Number 20 of 2016 concerning Marks and Geographical Indications only concerns the protection of counterfeit goods. This research aims to determine the legal protection for the holder of the Nike trademark on counterfeit shoes in the Klithikan Pakuncen market in Yogyakarta. This study uses a type of combined legal research (normative-empirical) with a legal approach to examine the laws and regulations governing the legal protection of Nike trademark holders on counterfeit shoes circulating in the Klithikan Pakuncen Market, Yogyakarta. The study results concluded that legal protection for holders of counterfeit shoes at the Klithikan Pakuncen Market in Yogyakarta was not effective because the Ministry of Law and Human Rights and the Department of Industry and Commerce had not fully supervised, fostered, nor taken action. Brand infringement which is a complaint offense means that there is not yet complete extra supervision from brand owners to file complaints to parties such as the Ministry of Law and Human Rights and the Department of Industry and Commerce, which should enforce the law instead of doing it passively.

The use of global standards, and the placement of barcodes and data matrix codes on vaccine labels and other levels of packaging are crucial elements for the traceability of finished vaccine products. Vaccine manufacturers are committed to improving health through their products, as vaccine production offers opportunities that can be leveraged to benefit immunization systems. In 2019 the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers Network (DCVMN) created the Supply Chain Initiative aimed at prioritize and explore traceability opportunities; concomitantly procurement agencies announced traceability requirements for vaccine global supply. Vaccine traceability brings benefits including supply chain reliability and safety through enhanced product movement visibility, and a reduction of falsified and expired vaccines circulating in the supply chain. DCVMN has coordinated the development and implementation of global traceability standards, at both primary and secondary vaccine packaging levels, to encourage and enable sharing these experiences. Six pilot studies in four different countries showed successful implementation, and constituted part of larger vaccine traceability work within the respective organizations. The main findings from these pilot studies indicated that stepwise approaches to the adoption of traceability standards allowed vaccine manufacturers to learn by doing, initially with lower risk, and to spread their investments over time. Because the value of traceability is in its scale of adoption and the use of the data, it remains important for all stakeholders to engage in and prioritize the journey of vaccine traceability, but also to suitably manage the financial risks. The DCVMN Supply Chain Initiative has demonstrated that its members are committed to driving supply system changes that benefit immunization, while recognizing that supply chain traceability is part of a larger healthcare ecosystem and should be adopted by countries and immunization programmes as well.

Background: This present study assesses changes in the pH as well as the metal ions that fake braces release into artificial saliva (AS) using a pH meter and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), respectively. Methods: Three sets of fake archwires (AWs) and brackets (Bs) as well as a set of controls were immersed in AS and placed in an incubator shaker at 50 rpm and 37°C. At Days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28, the pH of the AS medium was measured and 3.0 ml of AS was collected and stored at -20°C for elemental analysis. Results: Significant changes in pH were observed on Days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 in the AS of the AW group. However, these changes were only observed in the B group on Days 0 and 7. The fake samples released a large quantity of sodium (Na), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) ions, at concentrations exceeding 100 mg/L, post-28 days of immersion. The control and fake braces samples released other ions; such as lithium (Li), magnesium (Mg), barium (Ba), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and aluminium (Al); at concentrations that did not exceed 10 mg/L. Conclusions: The pH of the AS of all the samples increased post-incubation. Only 10 ions; namely, Na, Li, K, Mg, Ca, Ba, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Al; were detected in the AS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The supply chain is a complex network in healthcare that crosses organizational and geographical borders. The inherent complexity of such structures can introduce impurities inclusive of erroneous facts, lack of transparency, and restricted records provenance. In the healthcare business, counterfeit pills are one of the major reasons for the harmful impact on human health and also for financial losses. Thus, pharmaceutical supply chains and end-to-end tracking systems are the recent research in healthcare. In this paper, we propose blockchain based traceability of counterfeited drugs (BBTCD) that implements tracking of counterfeited drugs using smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. We propose a solution to fully decentralize the tracking in healthcare by storing BBTCD on IPFS (Inter Planetary File System) to provide transparency, cost-effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]