Direct Threat Research Articles

The future of waste cooking oil and its carbon and economic benefits——An automotive energy perspective

As a crucial energy carrier, waste cooking oil poses a significant threat to land and water resources. Furthermore, there is a risk of its reintroduction into the restaurant system, posing a direct threat to public health. Hence, converting waste cooking oil into clean energy has emerged as a pressing concern. This study compares the CO2 emissions and economic benefits of two pathways applied to automotive energy consumption——the waste cooking oil produced biodiesel pathway and the waste cooking oil mixed with coal for power generation pathway. The results show that for both diesel and electric versions of the same brand of vehicles, the CO2 emission of an electric vehicle using waste cooking oil mixed coal produced electricity is 0.181 kg/km, which is a 26.12% reduction compared to a diesel vehicle using waste cooking oil converted to biodiesel. Consumers appreciate the low price of electricity. However, for producers, the waste cooking oil produced biodiesel pathway demonstrates superior economic benefits. At the current market price, converting waste cooking oil into biodiesel will result in a net gain of 112.89 billion Yuan for the producer, whereas the waste cooking oil mixed with coal for power generation pathway will result in only 2.08 billion Yuan in net gain. This disparity is primarily attributed to the lower electricity prices for electric vehicles. To encourage the widespread adoption of waste cooking oil energization technologies, Chinese government can raise electricity prices for electric vehicles to a minimum of 1.599 Yuan/kW·h, ensuring equal net gains in both pathways.

Identification of key habitats and conservation threats of the Ganges River dolphin (Platanista gangetica) of Bangladesh

Ganges River Dolphins (Platanista gangetica) are known to inhabit all major river systems in Bangladesh. However, comprehensive spatial records for this globally endangered aquatic mammal are notably scarce nationwide. Furthermore, their habitats are increasingly threatened due to excessive utilization of aquatic resources and their habitats by the growing human population. To allocate limited resources in safeguarding high-priority dolphin habitats, we conducted field surveys and arranged stakeholder consultations to identify key dolphin habitats and the conservation threats they face across Bangladesh. Through this process, we have identified 14 river segments as high-priority winter habitats for Ganges River Dolphins. These dolphins encounter both direct and indirect threats within their habitats. Direct threats include entanglement and occasional intentional killing for traditional medicinal purposes and as fish attractants. Indirect threats leading to habitat degradation comprise the construction of dams and barrages for upstream water extraction, increasing industrial pollution in river waters, overfishing, and alterations to river morphology caused by siltation and sedimentation. The heavy reliance of local communities on dolphin habitats, coupled with a lack of widespread awareness and insufficient conservation efforts, pose significant challenges to the future survival of Ganges River Dolphins in Bangladesh. Bangladesh J. Zool. 51(3): 253-266, 2023

Variable breeding success and its implication in the conservation of endangered yellow‐eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) at the New Zealand subantarctic Auckland Islands

Abstract Knowledge of breeding success is essential for conservation, as it is required for monitoring populations and survival trends. Seabird reproductive success can be negatively affected by prey availability, marine‐based stochasticity, extreme weather events, individual breeders' performance and direct threats such as disease, predation and fisheries interactions. The endangered yellow‐eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) is declining in mainland New Zealand, however, little is known about its breeding success in the subantarctic where the majority of the species breeds. Yellow‐eyed penguin breeding success data were collected from a total of 167 nests on subantarctic Enderby Island, Auckland Islands, New Zealand, from the 2015 to 2017 breeding seasons. This included egg and chick mortality and fledging rates, plus a wider sample of the fledgling condition of 276 chicks. Fledging success was higher than in mainland New Zealand in some years, although chicks were smaller and lighter on average, highlighting the need for more information on juvenile survival probabilities in the subantarctic. Breeding success measures were similar in 2015 and 2016, but a large egg mortality in 2017 caused a significant reduction in breeding success that year. Such variability requires more investigation into the correlates of breeding success, including possible stressors such as foraging success, adverse weather and environmental effects, and pathogens. These results demonstrate the need for ongoing monitoring of yellow‐eyed penguin breeding success across the subantarctic in order to establish baselines for normal variation and to determine whether anthropogenic (manageable) factors may be contributing to low productivity. This research highlights an important consideration for endangered species conservation; that breeding success may not be consistent over time, or across a species' entire range. Additional monitoring of all breeding populations should be carried out to ensure up‐to‐date information is available to inform conservation management decisions for the species.

The risk of bone fractures in dementia patients receiving acetylcholinesterase inhibitors: a meta-analysis.

The authors aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to determine if acetylcholinesterase inhibitors may pose a direct threat, increasing the incidence of fractures in dementia patients. PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched. Inclusion criteria were any original studies that demonstrated the link between acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and the incidence of fracture in patients with dementia. RevMan(5.4) was used. Seven observational studies were included. The total number of patients included in the acetylcholinesterase inhibitors group is 274332 and 290347 in the control group. The pooled analysis showed that the risk of bone fracture was not statistically different between dementia patients who received acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and those who did not receive them (odds ratio=1.44, CI 0.95, 2.19, P=0.09). Subgroup analysis showed no statistically significant difference between dementia patients who took acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, and those who didn't take acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in those more than or equal to 80 years old and those less than 80 years old (P=0.44) and (P=0.34) respectively. However, our results showed a statistically significant association between dementia patients who received acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and decreased fracture risk in those receiving the treatment for more than or less than 2 years (risk ratio=0.48, CI= 0.45, 0.51, P<0.00001) and (risk ratio=0.84, CI 0.70, 0.99, P=0.04), respectively. Our study revealed no role for acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in increasing the risk of fracture compared with controls. Hence, based on our analysis, they might have a protective role against fracture when used for long periods considering their positive action on bone growth and development. Therefore, Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors could be considered a safe option for improving cognitive functions in elderly demented patients without carrying any additional risks.

Nonreciprocal interactions in crowd dynamics: Investigating the impact of moving threats on pedestrian speed preferences

Nonreciprocal interaction crowd systems, such as human–human, human–vehicle, and human–robot systems, often have serious impacts on pedestrian safety and social order. A more comprehensive understanding of these systems is needed to optimize system stability and efficiency. Despite the importance of these interactions, empirical research in this area remains limited. Thus, in our study we explore this underresearched area, focusing on scenarios where nonreciprocity plays a critical role, such as mass stabbings, which pose a substantial risk to public safety. We conducted the first experiments on this system and analysed high-accuracy data obtained from these experiments. Specifically, we conduct laboratory experiments on three scenarios: single exits, dual exits, and obscured chases. Then, we introduce an equation to describe the mechanism behind a direct threat zone, which significantly affects pedestrian behaviour. The extent of the direct threat zone is determined by the speed of the moving threat and the radius of danger occurrence. The equation can provide insights for different nonreciprocal interaction crowd systems, where the subjects of the nonreciprocal interactions can be a pedestrian, an autonomous robot or a vehicle. We further categorize potential threats into direct, adjacent, and rear-view zones, quantifying the level of threat for pedestrians. Our study revealed that a pedestrian’s desired velocity correlated positively with potential threat intensity, increasing until near the direct threat zone. An emerging steady state is observed when escape routes are blocked by moving threats. This deviation affects the density–velocity relationship, making it distinct from the general relationship. This deviation signifies unique pedestrian behaviour in the presence of moving threats. Additionally, the rate of change in the angle for pedestrian motion in various desired directions is synchronized. This indicates the emergence of collective intelligence in nonreciprocal interaction crowd systems. As a result, our study may constitute a pioneering step towards understanding nonreciprocal interactions in crowd systems through laboratory experiments. These findings may enhance pedestrian safety and inform not only government crowd management strategies but also individual self-protection measures.

Genome-wide association mapping in rice MAGIC indica panel detects QTLs and genes for broad-spectrum resistance breeding against African bacterial blight

Rice (Oryza sativa) bacterial blight (BB) is a direct threat to production in Africa. The extent of damage on the continent is not known. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to seek out Quantitative trait loci (QTL) that confer the broad-spectrum resistance (BSR) to rice Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae in the rice Multiparent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) population. The diverse genetic composition and high levels of recombination, are potential resources for the identification of QTL for BSR. Dealing with the ever-evolving Xoo requires identification of novel R gene and resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL). We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using 250 rice MAGIC indica panel to evaluate for resistance to three Xoo strains from Cote D'Ivoire, namely XooCIkor, XooCIgag and XooCIcii2 which are prevalent highly virulent pathotypes. Using the 3 K RG 4.8mio filtered SNP Dataset, a total of 3 QTL associated with BB resistance on chromosome 9, 6 and 5 were identified. The results of the GWAS identified novel loci that gives useful insight for more investigation and also validated known genes underlying resistance to virulent African strains of BB. Genetic donors identified in this will help plant breeders in improving and broadening resistance to BB.

Study on the Hydrochemical Characteristics and Evolution Law of Taiyuan Formation Limestone Water under the Influence of Grouting with Fly Ash Cement: A Case Study in Gubei Coal Mine of Huainan, China

The hydrogeological conditions of Huainan Coalfield are complex. The Taiyuan formation limestone water (Taihui water) in this area is a direct threat to the water source of the 1# coal mining floor. In order to prevent and control water disasters, Gubei Coal Mine adopted ground high-pressure grouting with fly ash cement to block the hydraulic connection between the Taiyuan formation limestone aquifer and the Ordovician limestone aquifer. However, the injected slurry will destroy the original hydrochemical balance of Taihui water and change its hydrochemical characteristics. Taking the influence area of the 2# karst collapse column in the Beiyi 1# coal mining area of Gubei Coal Mine as an example, a total of 25 Taihui water samples were collected. The hydrochemical characteristics and evolution law of Taihui water before and after grouting are studied via the multivariate statistical method. The research methods include constant index statistics, Piper diagram, correlation analysis, ion combination ratio, and saturation index analysis. The results show that after grouting, the concentrations of Na+ + K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Cl− in Taihui water decrease, while the concentrations of SO42− and HCO3− increase. The average values of PH and TDS become larger. The hydrochemical types of Taihui water are more concentrated, mainly HCO3-Na and Cl-Na. The correlations between conventional indicators decrease. According to the analysis of ion combination ratio, dissolution, cation exchange, and pyrite oxidation mainly occur in Taihui water, and these effects are enhanced after grouting. The saturation index results show that after grouting, the saturation index of dolomite, calcite, and gypsum is significantly reduced, and the saturation index of rock salt is slightly increased. The conclusion of this study is that the hydrochemical characteristics of Taihui water are greatly affected by fly ash cement. Moreover, because fly ash cement contains a lower calcium oxide content than ordinary Portland cement, the effect of fly ash cement on the ion concentration of Taihui water and the resulting hydrogeochemical effect are significantly different. Therefore, in the treatment of mine water disasters, the hydrogeochemical evolution law affected by fly ash cement grouting should be identified.

Мигрантофобский дискурс этнических виртуальных сообществ в социальной сети «ВКонтакте»

This article is dedicated to the study of migrant-phobic discourse in ethnic virtual communities. The aim of the research is to identify the characteristics of this discourse in online spaces. The scientific novelty of the research is that, for the first time, migrant-phobic discourses were identified and analyzed based on the content of two ethnic virtual communities. The study by the author identified the actors of migrant-phobic discourse, examined similarities and distinctive features of confrontational content, typified various forms of “hostile language”. Special attention was given to linguistic means and speech techniques for manipulating information, defining the key frame and script. The migrant-phobic discourse shapes the opinion that migrants pose a direct threat to the country. This article is intended for researchers studying migrant phobia, xenophobia, extremism, ethnicity, and online communities.

In utero exposure to violence and child health in Iraq

This paper examines the impact of exposure to violence during pregnancy on anthropometric and cognitive outcomes of children in the medium run. I combine detailed household-level data on more than 36,000 children with geo-coded information on civilian casualties in the aftermath of the US invasion of Iraq between 2003 and 2009 and exploit within-mother differences in prenatal exposure to violence. I find that one violent incident during pregnancy decreases height- and weight-for-age z-scores by 0.13 standard deviations and lowers cognitive and behavioral skills of children. Leveraging information on the severity, type and perpetrator of violence, I isolate the effect of stress from access to prenatal care. The analysis reveals that stressful events, particularly those involving direct threats to personal safety (violence directed at the civilian population and involving execution and torture), exert an even larger negative impact on child health than those incidents that disrupt health infrastructure and access to prenatal care.

Self-Stress: A New Perspective on Stress and Moral Disorders of Civilization

This essay delves into self-stress arising from societal expectations and moral norms. It compares pre-agricultural life, focused on physical survival, with post-agricultural life, where stress is linked to productivity and social demands. Compulsory human labor is highlighted as a significant source of chronic stress, posing a direct threat by mandating individuals to "earn a living." The role of moral rules in today’s society is explored, potentially influencing the shift of stress from physical to internalized. The essay proposes critical reflection on the impact of the "civilizing moral we," where collective achievements are internalized, possibly contributing to contemporary chronic stress and impacting mental health and societal cohesion. Despite apparent civilizational evolution, the concept of private property remains invulnerable, akin to prehistory. Given this complexity, there is a need to consider reformulating current morality to better address genuine human needs.

Social Mobility through Immigrant Resentment: Explaining Latinx Support for Restrictive Immigration Policies and Anti-immigrant Candidates

Abstract Various polls suggest that Donald Trump has enjoyed the support of a sizable minority of the Latinx electorate despite his racially offensive rhetoric and support for some of the most restrictive immigration policies in recent memory. Building on Social Identity Theory and Self-Categorization Theory, we contend that some Latinxs harbor negative stereotypes about immigrants, blame them for the status devaluation of the Latinx community, and cognitively distinguish themselves from Latinx immigrants. Rather than viewing anti-immigrant policies, rhetoric, and politicians as a direct status threat, those exhibiting this “Latinx Immigrant Resentment (LIR)” may regard them as a means to enhance the status and interests of “prototypical” Latinxs by signaling their distinction from “atypical” Latinxs. To evaluate this theory, we use the 2020 American National Election Study (ANES) and 2016 Collaborative MultiRacial Post-Election Survey (CMPS) as a proof-of-concept to first confirm that negative immigrant stereotypes and cognitive intragroup distinctions are associated with increased support for Donald Trump and restrictive immigration policies. We then introduce a more refined measure of LIR by fielding online surveys of US Latinxs administered through Lucid in 2020–2021 (N = 1,164) and 2021/22 (N = 1,017). We demonstrate the validity of this measure and its predictive power for attitudes toward Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, and restrictive immigration policies after accounting for a range of rival explanations.

COUNTERING RUSSIAN DISINFORMATION AND PROPAGANDA IN THE UKRAINIAN INFORMATION SPACE (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE ELECTRONIC RESOURCE OF THE CENTRE FOR COUNTERING DISINFORMATION AT THE NSDC OF UKRAINE)

The Russian disinformation in the information space of Ukraine is analyzed in the article. Using the example of the electronic resource of the Centre for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, the author examines the legislative principles and practical tools for implementing the Information Security Strategy of Ukraine. Three areas of work of the CCD in the field of detection, analysis and disproval of disinformation and propaganda messages that pose a direct threat to the national security of Ukraine are highlighted. The information aspect of the CCD’s activity was studied It informs about events such as seminars and trainings. Particular attention is paid to the analytical direction of work, which consisted of researching various processes, phenomena and theses of Russian propaganda. The third area of work is defined as educational with explanatory and reference materials. It was concluded that the materials can`t be used to prove the existence of a comprehensive and integrated measure to combat propaganda. There are attempts to systematize and summaries anti-Ukrainian propaganda, and to spread public understanding of information risks and impacts. A strong feature of the approach taken by the CCD is a successful attempt to analyze the content of propaganda messages, develop methods for refuting them, and work to prevent disinformation. The significance of the subject and unresolved problems give an opportunity for further studies and has prospects for the future.

HHS Office for Civil Rights opens investigation into UnitedHealthcareGroup cyberattack

Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a “Dear Colleague” letter addressing the cybersecurity incident impacting Change Healthcare, a unit of UnitedHealthcare Group (UHG), and many other health care entities. The cyberattack is disrupting health care and billing information operations nationwide and poses a direct threat to critically needed patient care and essential operations of the health care industry. OCR enforces the HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules, which require that HIPAA covered entities – virtually all health care providers, clearinghouses, and insurance companies – protect the privacy and security of protected health information. The likelihood that substance use disorder (SUD) treatment information was included in the breach is very likely. However, OCR does not mention 42 CFR Part 2, just HIPAA. HHS views ransomware and hacking as the “primary cyber threats in health care.” There has been a 256% increase in large breaches involving hacking, and a 264% increase in ransomware, over the last 5 years, and this only includes those breaches OCR was notified of. $22 million was reportedly paid to the Change Healthcare hackers, in the form of bitcoin, likely from UHG, according to news reports. HHS OCR says: “If you believe that your or another person's health information privacy or civil rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with OCR at https://www.hhs.gov/ocr/complaints/index.html.” The one bright side of the new Part 2 rules are that OCR now enforces the regulation.

«IT WILL BE USEFUL FOR YOU TO TAKE US TO YOUR ALLIANCE»: ABOUT AVAR-BYZANTINE DIPLOMATIC RELATIONSHIPS IN 557–565 A.D.

Nomad Avar horde, which migrated to the Balkan region from Asia, soonly was included in the diplomatic system under the supremacy of Constantinople. After using territorial claims nomads on Romei lands, a short form of the institution of the supreme ruler and a small number of Avars, Roman Emperor Justinian I (527-565) signed the federative agreement with nomads. During the alliance, Avars tried to develop their independent political course. Such circumstance contradicted Eastern Rome’s interests and, in perspective, created a direct threat to the Empire. Using centuries of weakening the Byzantium on the Danube border, nomads started a series of raids against Empire allies and broke the deal with Constantinople. The diplomatic corps of nomads focused on disinforming the autocrat. As a result, it caused deterioration in relations between sides in the last years of rule of Justinian I and finally to a protracted military confrontation after the death of the Emperor, which lasted with breaks to the first third of VII cent. The main thesis of the article is the Avar-Romei political relations, which topic is considered primarily in the context of the wars. At the same time, the only basileus who succeeded in managing the long-term alliance with the future enemy of the Empire was Justinian the Great. In our opinion, the consideration of Avar-Romei political relations in this period illustrates, on the one hand, the specifics of the attitude of ‘Latin’ Byzantium to folks whose military potential it wanted to use. On the other hand, the peculiarities of the formation of another ‘steppe empire’, which by the way, turned out to be more stable in ethnic and political aspects than the Huns. Based on the messages of Romei historians in the second half of VI cent., the article recreates the terms and the precedents of concluding and further observance by the parties of the Avar-Byzantium alliance during the final period of Justinian the Great rule. The author tried to chronologically recreate the picture of the initial step of Avar-Romei relations that primarily evolved in mutually beneficial coexistence. This was primarily caused both by low numbers of Avars and insufficient formation nomads’ elites, as well as the political experience of Justinian the First. The focus is on the relations between nomad folks and Empire federates, such as Alans, Antes, and Gepids. Against the background of military-political connections of Avars with their neighbors, their first initial steps are noticeable. Analyzed factors that promoted Avars’ initial transition under Rome’s supremacy and the slow creation of their own policy course by Avar Khagan Bayan.

Derailing of Fourth Pillar of the Democracy and Future of Accountable, Transparent Democratic System

The fourth pillar of democracy, often referred to as the "Press" or "Media," plays a crucial role in upholding the principles of accountability and transparency within democratic societies. This paper explores the challenges faced by the media in contemporary times, leading to the potential derailment of its vital role. In the age of rapidly evolving technology and information dissemination, traditional journalism faces numerous threats, including misinformation, political interference, and economic pressures. The first section of the paper delves into the historical significance of the fourth pillar and its evolution over time. It highlights the essential role of a free and independent media in fostering an informed citizenry, holding the government accountable, and acting as a watchdog against corruption and abuse of power. The second section examines the contemporary challenges that threaten the integrity of the fourth pillar. The rise of digital platforms, social media, and the proliferation of fake news have significantly impacted the credibility of traditional journalism. Political interference, censorship, and attacks on journalists further exacerbate the erosion of media independence. The third section explores the consequences of a weakened fourth pillar on the democratic system. Diminished media freedom can lead to reduced government accountability, increased corruption, and a decline in public trust. The paper argues that the erosion of the fourth pillar poses a direct threat to the foundations of democracy itself. The final section outlines potential strategies and prospects for revitalizing and safeguarding the fourth pillar. This includes the promotion of media literacy, regulatory frameworks to counter misinformation, and international collaboration to protect journalists and media freedom. Additionally, fostering a diversified and sustainable media landscape is crucial for ensuring the continued vibrancy of the fourth pillar. In conclusion, this paper emphasizes the critical importance of a robust fourth pillar in sustaining a healthy democratic system. It calls for collective efforts from governments, civil society, and the media industry to address the challenges and preserve the essential role of the media in promoting accountability, transparency, and a well-informed electorate. Only through concerted action can we hope to secure the future of a democratic system built on the principles of an independent and responsible press.

Coagulation Tests and Volume of Blood Loss in Patients with Premature Placental Abruption

Introduction. Placental abruption continues to be one of the leading causes of bleeding during pregnancy and delivery, posing a direct threat to the health and life of both mother and fetus, making a significant contribution to the structure of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The study of predictors and prediction of the severity of the consequences of this complication is one of the areas of scientific research.The purpose of the study is to expand the possibilities of predicting massive bleeding, which is a consequence of premature placental abruption, based on the analysis of prenatal laboratory parameters of the hemostasis system as a universal tool for optimizing the choice of treatment tactics.Material and methods. A retrospective assessment of the relationship between the volume of bleeding and prenatal laboratory parameters of the hemostasis system was carried out in 46 patients with premature detachment of the placenta delivered by caesarean section in Sverdlovsk Regional Children Clinical Hospital, Ekaterinburg in 2020 using the methods of statistical analysis of quantitative indicators.Results and discussion. When comparing the volume of blood loss with prenatal indicators of hemostasis, prognostic significance was revealed and paired linear regression equations were constructed for the following parameters: platelet level, plateletcrit, prothrombin time, Quick prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time. And no relationship was found between the volume of blood loss and MPV (p = 0.231), PDW (p = 0.121), P-LCR (p = 0.205), thrombin time (p = 0.79), fibrinogen value (p = 0.07).Conclusion. The results of the study can be used in building a decision-making algorithm and medical tactics of a multidisciplinary team during care for a patient with premature placental abruption, however, further research is required in this direction to build a universal formula for predicting bleeding volume in placental abruption.

The Discussion of the Tendences and Evolution of the European Security Issues in the British Parliament (1990-2010)

The article is devoted to the discussion of European security issues in the British Parliament in the post-bipolar period. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the British establishment had to revise the foreign policy doctrine of the United Kingdom to adapt it to the demands of the post-bipolar age. During this period, parliamentarians discussed the future role of NATO after the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact. The political establishment has continued to define NATO as the foundation of the Euroatlantic system of collective security. After the direct military threat from the USSR vanished, the British elites had difficulties formulating the strategic goal of the North Atlantic alliance's existence. Another important topic was the creation of the European Union, its future enlargement in Central-Eastern Europe, and the search for the best approach to British European policy under new circumstances. There was an agreement that the idea of the “Europe of Nations” was best suited to British national interests. The British government also deterred attempts by France and Germany to transform the European Union into a federal superstate. The Balkan crisis also became a central topic that caused heated debates in Parliament in an attempt to find a path to a peaceful settlement. In the case of military interventions in local conflicts, the British establishment tried to evade direct intervention in the Balkan crisis but was forced to reconsider its position under growing pressure from allies, who began to experience economic and reputational damage. The humanitarian intervention in Kosovo created a precedent that was used to justify interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Additionally, the conflicts in Nagorno-Karabakh and Georgia were also discussed.

Vulnerability of terrestrial vertebrate food webs to anthropogenic threats in Europe.

Vertebrate species worldwide are currently facing significant declines in many populations. Although we have gained substantial knowledge about the direct threats that affect individual species, these threats only represent a fraction of the broader vertebrate threat profile, which is also shaped by species interactions. For example, threats faced by prey species can jeopardize the survival of their predators due to food resource scarcity. Yet, indirect threats arising from species interactions have received limited investigation thus far. In this study, we investigate the indirect consequences of anthropogenic threats on biodiversity in the context of European vertebrate food webs. We integrated data on trophic interactions among over 800 terrestrial vertebrates, along with their associated human-induced threats. We quantified and mapped the vulnerability of various components of the food web, including species, interactions, and trophic groups to six major threats: pollution, agricultural intensification, climate change, direct exploitation, urbanization, and invasive alien species and diseases. Direct exploitation and agricultural intensification were two major threats for terrestrial vertebrate food webs: affecting 34% and 31% of species, respectively, they threaten 85% and 69% of interactions in Europe. By integrating network ecology with threat impact assessments, our study contributes to a better understanding of the magnitude of anthropogenic impacts on biodiversity.

Changes in pharmaceutical prescription authorizations and their impact on the number of prescriptions issued by pharmacists in Poland

Abstract The Pharmaceutical Law Act of September 6, 2001 (PLA) initially granted pharmacists the authority to issue pharmaceutical prescriptions upon its enactment. However, the legislation regulating this matter changed significantly in 2015. Article 96, section 4 of the PLA defined that, in the front of a direct health threat to a patient, a pharmacist could dispense a medication classified under the availability categories Rp or Rpz. In April 2020, the imprecise term “sudden” in relation to health threats was clarified and removed. Concurrently, all active pharmacists were granted the authority to issue prescriptions, commonly known as pro auctore and pro familiae. The aim of the study was to illustrate the influence of legislative processes on the number of prescriptions issued by practicing pharmacists. To conduct the study, we employed a legal and comparative analysis of relevant legal provisions, followed by a statistical analysis of data obtained from the E-Health Center about the number of prescriptions issued. The results indicated that since the extension of pharmacists’ rights (after April 2020), the average number of pharmaceutical prescriptions issued per month was 151,082. Between May 2020, when pharmacists were granted the authority to issue pro auctore and pro familiae prescriptions, and October 2023, 1,460,385 such prescriptions were dispensed. As a result, a significant relationship between the form of the legislative norms empowering pharmacists to independently prescribe Rx status medicines and the effectiveness of these amendments as measured by the number of prescriptions issued was demonstrated.

Molecular variability among the isolates of seed-borne Macrophomina phaseolina infecting sesame seeds

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an earliest oilseed crop originating from India, widely cultivated across different climates worldwide known as the ?Queen of the Oilseeds?. Seeds are the economically significant part of the crop and it contains high oil and protein concentrations, making it highly valued for its nutritional content and delightful flavour. Sesame cultivation faces challenges particularly concerning biotic agents with diseases caused by Macrophomina phaseolina being a major threat. Moreover, this pathogen's seed-borne nature possesses a direct threat to human health when infected seeds are consumed. Twelve M. phaseolina isolates from different genotypes/cultivars showed distinct cultural, morphological and molecular variability. The RAPD study using 40 primers revealed cent per cent polymorphism with OPA 2, OPE 1 and OPE 3, while OPA 3 and OPA 18 exhibited the lowest polymorphism (85.71% and 83.33%). Most isolates belonged to cluster B, indicating genetic similarity, while cluster A included only four isolates. Molecular variability amongst the isolates of M. phaseolina infecting sesame seeds were analyzed using molecular marker RAPD.. KEYWORDS :Macrophomina phaseolina, molecular variability, seeds, sesame, RAPD