Illegal Online Gambling Site Detection using Multiple Resource-Oriented Machine Learning.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to faster digitalization and illegal online gambling has become popular. As illegal online gambling brings not only financial threats but also breaches in overall cyber security, this study defines the concept of absolute illegal online gambling (AIOG) using a machine-learning-driven approach with information gathered from public webpages. By analysing 11,172 sites to detect illegal online gambling, the proposed model classifies key features such as URLs (Uniform Resource Locator), WHOIS, INDEX, and landing page information. With a combination of text and image analyses with machine learning-driven approach, the proposed model offers the ensemble combination of attributes for high detection performance with the verification of common attributes from metadata in online gambling. This study suggests a strategy for dynamic resource utilization to increase the classification accuracy of the current environment. As a result, this research expands the scope of hybrid web mining through constant updating of data to achieve content-based filtering.

The influence of personal and economic oppression on a country's corruption levels worldwide.

This empirical research study endeavors to analyze the indirect association between oppression and corruption in 147 nations around the globe to answer one question: "Why does oppression drive corruption in many nations?" The author used secondary data from two different resources. The first source is the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), created by Transparency International (TI) in 2020, and the Human Freedom Index (HFI), co-published by the Cato Institute. In addition, the second source is the Political Stability Index in 2020 to test the three research hypotheses using the R-square, and Anova shows that the model is personal and economic oppression explains 53.5 percent of the variance. In addition, the Weighted Least Squares Regression Analyses imply that there is a positive and meaningful connection between personal oppression (ß = 3.028, p < 0.000) and corruption and economic oppression and corruption (5.203, p < 0.000). This study's findings confirmed the theoretical and conceptual relationship between oppression and bribery and identified personal and economic oppression factors as the leading causes of corruption in many countries. The study findings also contribute to the literature and the industry as well. Theoretically, the study results help researchers to understand why oppression causes corruption at the country level. Practically, the study results help policymakers, educators, and international business planners to consider roots when making successful strategic decisions in the era of the globalized world. The author also discussed the research limitations and practical and theoretical implications.

Psychosocial characteristics of the general population who habitually use hypnotics: Results from a national survey on drug use among the Japanese.

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the characteristics of habitual hypnotic users in Japan. Methods: This nationwide, cross-sectional survey used self-administered questionnaires. Data were collected from four national surveys conducted every 2 years between 2015 and 2021. The participants were Japanese individuals who had taken prescription hypnotics in the past year or had never taken them. We divided 13,396 participants into three groups to compare the social background and status of taking medication and controlled drugs, drinking, and smoking among the three groups: people who use hypnotics habitually daily (habitual hypnotic users [HUs]), people who use them only occasionally (occasional hypnotic users [OUs]), and people who do not use them (hypnotic non-users [NUs]). We compared the perception of using hypnotics between the HU and OU groups. Results: HUs were more likely to be older, unemployed, and to habitually use anxiolytics and analgesics than NUs. The main reasons for taking anxiolytics in HUs were alleviating insomnia and reducing anxiety, whereas the main reason for taking analgesics was improving joint pain. Additionally, the HU group had a higher proportion of habitual smokers than the OU group. There was no difference in drinking status or taking of controlled drugs among the three groups. HUs were more likely to use hypnotics and to have concerns about their side-effects than OUs. Conclusion: HUs were more likely to be unemployed, habitually use anxiolytics and analgesics, smoke heavily, and take hypnotic drugs with concerns regarding side-effects. These results may help encourage the appropriate use of hypnotics.

Nationwide law enforcement impact on the pet bird trade in China.

Conservation enforcement is a direct strategy to combat illegal wildlife trade in open markets. Yet, its large-scale effectiveness has not been widely assessed due to the lack of extensive market data. Between August 2016 and June 2017, a national coordinated enforcement campaign led by the leading Chinese authority to combat illegal migratory bird trade coincided with the largest-ever pet bird market survey across China by voluntary birdwatchers before and after the enforcement, which served as a unique natural experiment. Across 73 markets from 22 Chinese provinces, the dataset contains 140,723 birds of 346 species from 48 families and recorded a drastic decline in bird abundance traded after enforcement. Notably, species protected under China's Wildlife Protection Law declined significantly, while commercially bred species increased, although responses to enforcement were spatially heterogeneous. Our model showed that the national protection level was the best predictor for the trend of traded species, even after accounting for confounding factors such as regional baseline enforcement pressure and wild native bird populations. However, the widely traded native songbirds were not offered adequate national protection. Future policies should consider the pet bird trade patterns, target key areas of trade, and develop a more systematic market survey design to monitor trade.

Developing a comprehensive abortion prevention program for couples based on I-change model: study protocol for a mixed method research.

BACKGROUND: In countries where abortion laws are stringent, induced abortions are prevalent. The limited availability of abortion services within these regions amplifies the likelihood of maternal complications and mortality. Induced abortions represent a significant public health concern in Iran and are characterized by a multitude of intricate factors that remain largely unexplored. Gaps in knowledge persist pertaining to the influences driving induced abortion within the Iranian context. To adequately address the issue of induced abortion, it is imperative to discern the determinants that shape the decision-making process. The primary objective of this study was to design an intervention program focused on mitigating the occurrence of induced abortion within couples, with an emphasis on identifying the key factors that contribute to this phenomenon. METHODS: This study comprises three phases. In the first phase, a qualitative approach based on the I-change model will be employed to identify the factors influencing induced abortion. The second phase involves a systematic review to identify the determinants of induced abortion and strategies to prevent induced abortion. In the third phase, the outcomes of the qualitative approach and systematic review will be shared with experts and specialists using the Delphi method to categorize and prioritize strategies. Subsequently, based on the final consensus, a comprehensive program will be developed to prevent induced abortion. DISCUSSION: This study introduces an I-change model-based program for the prevention of induced abortion. The prevention of induced abortion holds great significance in mitigating maternal morbidity and mortality, curtailing healthcare expenses, and fostering population growth rates. The research findings will be disseminated via reputable peer-reviewed journals and communicated to the academic and medical communities. This dissemination aims to provide valuable insights that can contribute to the advancement of induced abortion and abortion prevention programs.

Induced abortion is restricted in Iran, and many married women with unintended pregnancies resort to clandestine procedures, resulting in adverse health outcomes. Induced abortion contributes to 2.3% of maternal mortality rates in the country. Understanding the factors influencing abortion is crucial for designing effective preventive interventions. Due to cultural and political sensitivities, reliable data on the determinants of induced abortion in Iran, particularly from the perspective of male partners, remain scarce. Existing research primarily focuses on women's views, neglecting the potential influence of men on abortion-related decisions. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the determinants of induced abortion in couples and developing a comprehensive couple-based abortion prevention program in Iran. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study explored the factors associated with couples' decisions regarding abortion. Subsequently, a systematic review will identify existing knowledge on abortion determinants and preventive strategies. On the basis of this comprehensive understanding, an evidence-informed abortion prevention plan will be devised. The findings of this study can inform policymakers and population/reproductive health experts, ultimately aiming to reduce the burden of negative health and social consequences associated with abortion, leading to cost reductions and improved health outcomes for women, families, and society.

An overview of waste management practices of street vendors in sub-saharan africa: A meta-analysis.

Many low-income developing countries struggle with waste collection and the development of disposal facilities, leading to issues such as illegal dumping and poor enforcement of waste management regulations. The pollution caused by street vendors' waste is particularly evident in the central business districts of cities in developing nations. The informal economy, which includes activities such as street vending has become prevalent in developing countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) nations. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing literature on street vendors' waste management practices in the region, with a focus on understanding the factors influencing waste mismanagement and identifying integrated strategies employed across SSA. In most SSA areas, research is conducted to evaluate food vendor hygienic practices (33%), however the waste management component, which is crucial to hygiene, makes up just 15%, which is twice as small as the research that focused on hygienic practices. As a result, street vendors in the majority of sub-Saharan nations have little interest in waste management procedures. Many street vendors in the region resort to informal waste disposal methods because of no access to formal waste management infrastructure since they are not recognised as formal businesses. The study acknowledges the street vendors' contribution to food security in developing Sub Saharan Africa, as well as the significance of comprehending their waste management practices. Despite their prevalence in urban areas, these informal businesses still face a lack of recognition and inclusion from governing bodies. Therefore, the study emphasises the necessity of incorporating street vendors into formal municipal waste management systems and providing them with enhanced infrastructure and services. Given that the lack of recognition subsequently make it challenging to integrate vendors into formal waste management systems. Subsequently this has a negative cumulative impact on developing and enforcing clear regulations that specify the responsibilities of street vendors in waste management. Thus, leading to the absence of comprehensive by laws regulations governing waste management for street vendors within Sub-Saharan Africa.

Safety of cannabidiol products as a social issue: A case series.

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) products have increased in popularity in Japan in recent years, particularly among young people. Some CBD products contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main ingredient of cannabis, and its analogs, which are illegal in Japan and have become a social issue. This report discusses the safety of CBD products. Case Presentation: Five patients with symptoms of CBD ingestion, including nausea, presented to our hospital. Three of the products these patients ingested contained THC. Metabolites of THC were detected in the blood and urine of all three patients, although there were some discrepancies in the urine drug screening test (DS10®). These examination results differed even when the same product was consumed. Conclusion: CBD products are unsafe and may unintentionally contain THC. It is also important to understand that CBD can turn into THC, and the effective time needed to conduct urine drug screening.

Determination of fifteen illegal colorants in traditional Chinese medicines by two hydrophobic DES-based microextraction methods coupled with an HPLC-DAD.

The dyeing and adulteration of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) are continuously updated. Valuable analytical methods for the daily inspection of illegal colorant additives in TCMs and the preparations are in demand. Two deep eutectic solvent (DES)-based vortex-assisted liquid-liquid microextraction (VA-LLME) and ultrasonic-assisted solid-liquid microextraction (UA-SLME) were developed for the sample pretreatment of ten water-soluble colorants and five water-insoluble colorants, respectively, followed by an HPLC-DAD detection. Fifteen colorants were analyzed at four detection wavelengths within 40 min of gradient elution. The optimal DES of VA-LLME and UA-SLME were screened from 23 homemade DESs. The factors affecting the extraction efficiency of VA-LLME and UA-SLME were optimized systematically. Under the optimal conditions, ten water-soluble colorants analyzed by DES-based VA-LLME-HPLC-DAD showed good linearity (R ≥ 0.9995) within the optimal linear range. The LODs and LOQs were 0.2-1.0 µg g-1 and 0. 5-5.0 µg g-1, respectively. The recoveries of spiked samples were 80.2%-104.7 %, with RSDs ≤ 4.39 %. Five water-insoluble colorants of Sudan I‒IV and Sudan 7B analyzed by DES-based UA-SLME-HPLC-DAD showed good linearity (R ≥ 0.9995) within the optimal linear range. The LODs and LOQs were 0.8-8.0 µg g-1 and 4.0-40.0 µg g-1, respectively. The recoveries of spiked samples were 94.2%-103.1 %, with RSDs ≤ 4.81 %. The proposed DES-based VA-LLME-HPLC-DAD was successfully applied to analyze six water-soluble yellow colorants in Cuscutae Semen, salted Cuscutae Semen, and four water-soluble red colorants in Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus. The proposed DES-based UA-SLME-HPLC-DAD was successfully applied to analyze five water-insoluble red colorants in Dieda pills. The study provides analytical method options for routine tests of water-soluble, water-insoluble, or both water-soluble/-insoluble illegal colorant additives in herbal medical materials and preparations by the relevant proposed DES-based sample pretreatment method or a combination of the two proposed DES-based methods.

Hepatitis B virus infection among illegal drug users in Enugu State, Nigeria: prevalence, immune status, and related risk factors.

INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis B virus infection poses a global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income African countries. Illicit drug use exacerbates the problem, with drug users having a higher HBV infection risk and maintaining a quiet transmission pool. This study aimed to determine HBV infection prevalence, immune status, and risk factors among illegal drug users in Enugu State, Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Enugu State, using privileged access interviewer methods to enroll drug users. Pre-tested structured questionnaires were administered after informed consent was obtained. Blood samples were tested for HBsAg, HBsAb, HBeAg, HBeAb, and HBcAb using immunochromatographic rapid test kits. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. RESULTS: One hundred drug users were recruited into the study. Overall, 7% of the drug users had HBV infection. 61% were found to be susceptible to HBV infection, 15% showed serological evidence of immunity from HBV vaccination and 1% developed natural immunity from HBV exposure. Significant risk factors for HBV infection were age less than 20 years, young age (≤ 20 years) at drug initiation, being single, injecting drugs more than or equal to 20 times per month and injecting with used syringes. CONCLUSION: This study shows high intermediate endemicity of HBV infection among drug users, low vaccination uptake, and high susceptibility to HBV infection. This calls for the urgent inclusion of drug users in national HBV vaccination campaigns and the adoption of the World Health Organization's recommendations on the prevention of viral hepatitis among people who inject drugs.

Do Australians use the prescription pathway when using nicotine vaping products to quit smoking?

BACKGROUND: In Australia, nicotine vaping products (NVPs) are only legally available to those with a prescription from a doctor. We investigated the proportion of people using NVPs to quit smoking who had a prescription, and whether this increased following regulatory changes in 2021 that strengthened the prescription requirement. METHODS: Australian data from the 2018, 2020 and 2022 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Project Survey were analysed using GEE models with Poisson regressions to analyze differences between years. Data from participants who reported making a quit attempt in the previous two years and reported use of NVPs on their last quit attempt were included (480 observations across 418 individuals). Participants reported whether they had a prescription for NVPs on their last quit attempt. In 2022, they were also asked whether they sourced their prescription from their usual medical practice. RESULTS: Among those using NVPs for a quit attempt, use with a prescription increased significantly from 2020 to 2022 (IRR = 0.35 (0.17-0.73), p = .005) but was still low at 16.5 % (95 % CI 11.4-23.1). In 2022, among the small number who reported getting a prescription for NVPs, 27 % reported getting it from their regular practice; the remainder from a specialist online doctor service. CONCLUSION: There was a modest increase in obtaining a prescription among those who used NVPs for their last quit attempt after regulations were strengthened, however most NVP use for quitting was without a prescription.

Issues of risky behaviours in university students.

AIM: Risk behaviour is typical of adolescence and young adulthood, but the consequences can persist for the rest of life - in all domains - physical, psychological, and social. Challenging situations, stress, as well as feelings of a lack of stimulation in an individual's life are considered to be triggers for risky behaviours. Prevention therefore plays a crucial role. The aim of the study was to analyse the current situation in addictive and risky sexual behaviours in a group of university students. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 2019 and 2022, students of universities in East Bohemia - University of Hradec Králové (UHK), Charles University (UK), University of Defence (UNOB), and University of Pardubice (UPCE) - were approached and asked to complete a questionnaire survey focused on addictive and risky sexual behaviours. Based on the search strategy, research hypotheses were constructed, which were subsequently developed into interview questions. The research hypotheses were tested using Pearson's test. The questionnaire return rate was 84%. After eliminating invalid responses, 157 participants were included in the survey - 64% female, 36% male, age range 19-32 years. RESULTS: In the area of addictive behaviours, the focus was on substance and non-substance addictions. In terms of addictive substances, a question addressed cigarette smoking, which was reported by 14.6% of the survey participants. This is 50% less than what we see in the general population of the same age (by general population we mean the group of people approached for the surveys conducted, chosen by stratified random sampling based on age). In contrast, significantly higher rates of university students reported the use of illicit substances - marijuana, sedatives/tranquilizers without a doctor's prescription, cocaine, or hallucinogens compared to the age-matched general population. In the area of risky sexual behaviours, a question was included       about sexual intercourse with casual acquaintances. It was experienced by one in four respondents. In 83.3%, this behaviour was influenced by the use of an addictive substance. The survey pointed to the high rates of salutoprotective factors (e.g. interest in sports was reported by 87.9% of respondents). Perceived social support from friends (reported by 74.5% of respondents) or family (reported by 72.6% of respondents) is a preventive factor for risky behaviours. CONCLUSIONS: The aim of the survey was to determine the prevalence of high-risk addictive and sexual behaviours among university students and possible prevention measures. Salutoprotective factors during increased stress or awareness of social support seem to be of benefit. We assumed a protective effect of higher education, but this survey did not show it. On the contrary, the stress induced by university studies and the pressure on academic performance appeared to be a risk factor. The results of the survey provide insights into new approaches to the prevention to improve its effectiveness and point to major problems to be addressed in Czech university students.

Isolation, characterization, identification and quantification of 6-F oxyphenisatin dipropionate, a novel illegal additive, from a fruit-flavored jelly.

Objective: This study is aimed to screen, identify and detect illegal additives from healthcare products which claim or imply to have weight-loss effects. Method: Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadruple-time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) was employed to perform non-targeted screening of illegal additives from a total of 26 batches of healthcare products with weight-loss effects. A novel oxyphenisatin dipropionate analog was discovered in a fruit-flavored jelly that was not clearly labeled as containing added drugs. After being separated and purified by silica gel column chromatography, the analog was unambiguously characterized by one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies. The molecular structure of the analog was finally identified by comparing the spectra of the analog with those of suspected candidates prepared by de novo synthesis strategy. Thereafter, a sensitive and precise reversed phase ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array (UPLC-PDA) detection method was developed and verified for the determination of the analog in 15 batches of real samples. Results: In the MS/MS spectra, the signal intensity of mass/charge ratios (m/z, 242 and 214) of the novel analog fragments was highly similar to that of mass/charge ratios (m/z, 224 and 196) of oxyphenisatin dipropionate fragments. Additionally, the 1D NMR spectrum of the analog was completely consistent with that of one of the suspected candidates prepared by the de novo synthesis strategy. Based on the above analysis, the structure of the analog was determined as 3,3-bis[4'-(propionyloxy)phenyl]-6-fluoro-2-oxoindoline, which was briefly named 6-F oxyphenisatin dipropionate. A developed quantitative method showed good linearity (R2 > 0.999) in a concentration range of 1.0-100 µg/mL. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) for the analog was 3 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg, respectively. The average recoveries of the analog from spiked three different matrix samples in low (1 time of LOQ), medium (2 times of LOQ), and high (10 times of LOQ) concentrations were varied from 93.9 % to 107.8 % with a precision of 0.03-1.56 %. Results of quantitative analysis in 15 batches of healthcare products revealed that the content of 6-F oxyphenisatin dipropionate in a fruit-flavored jelly and a solid beverage was 118 mg/kg and 330 mg/kg, respectively. Conclusion: In terms of its structure, 6-F oxyphenisatin dipropionate replaces hydrogen atom by the fluorine atom at position 6 on the indolinone fragment in oxyphenisatin dipropionate. To our best knowledge, 6-F oxyphenisatin dipropionate has never been detected as an illegal additive in foods. Such illegal addition of the analog to foods is more concealing, thus the supervision and testing departments should attach great importance to its application in food markets.

Development of a two-layer machine learning model for the forensic application of legal and illegal poppy classification based on sequence data.

Poppies are beneficial plants with a variety of applications, including medicinal, edible, ornamental, and industrial purposes. Some Papaver species are forensically significant plants because they contain opium, a narcotic substance. Internationally trafficked species of illegal poppies are being identified by DNA barcoding employing multiple markers in response to their forensic value. However, effective markers for precise species identification of legal and illegal poppies are still under discussion, with research on illegal poppies focusing on Papaver somniferum L., and species identification studies of Papaver bracteatum and Papaver setigerum DC. still lacking. As a result, in order to evaluate the performance of genetic markers and classify their DNA sequences in the genus Papaver, this study developed the first machine learning-based two-layer model, in which the first layer classifies legal and illegal poppies from the given sequence and the second layer identifies species of illegal poppies using their sequences. We constructed the dataset and investigated biological features from four markers, internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1), internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2), transfer RNA Leucine (trnL), transfer RNA Leucine - transfer RNA Phenylalanine intergenic spacer (trnL-trnF intergenic spacer) and their combination, using four machine learning algorithms, K-nearest neighbor (KNN), Naïve Bayes (NB), extreme gradient boost (XGBoost) and Random Forest (RF). According to our findings, for Layer 1 to classify legal and illegal poppies, KNN-based models using combined ITS region achieved the greatest performance of accuracy 0.846 and 0.889 using training and test sets, respectively. Additionally, for Layer 2 to identify illegal poppy species, KNN-based models using combined ITS region achieved the best performance of 0.833 and 1.000 for using training and test sets, respectively. To validate the model, the combined ITS region, which includes ITS 1 and 2 sequences, from blind poppy samples were used as a case study, with the Layer 1 correctly classifying legal and illegal poppies with over 0.830 accuracy. Layer 2 correctly identified P. setigerum DC., however, only one of the three P. somniferum L. species was accurately identified. Nevertheless, our research shows that machine learning can be used to classify and identify legal and illegal poppy species using DNA barcodes which can then be used as an efficient and effective forensic tool for improved law enforcement and a safer society.

A case study on blast fishing in illegal small scale fisheries in the Aegean Sea: Catch composition and observed external and internal abnormalities for 18 Osteichthyes fish species.

Blast fishing is an illegal, ecologically destructive fishing method, fatal for many fish species at large scales. Blast fishing using dynamite is preferred by the fishers, especially small scale fisheries in Turkey, as it requires minimal effort but still results in higher catches. In the current study, demonstration of 20 controlled real-time blasting results involves species composition, size of fish, catch rates, catch composition, commercial/discard ratios, CPUE estimates and clinical observations of external and internal abnormality symptoms of fish species. Blasting trials were carried out with special permission in limited numbers because of its harmful effect. The collected data was tested using PRIMER v6 and diversity indices were also analysed. For the similarity between collected species cluster analysis was used to examine the stability of the results. Multidimensional scaling (MDS) was also applied for the assessment of fish species in the catch. A total of 1014 individuals (63.8 kg) were collected and 18 fish species belonging to seven families were examined. According to laboratory examinations, it was found that blasting caused different external and internal abnormality symptoms in the sampled fish species during the study.

Illicit Trade of Prescription Medications Through X (Formerly Twitter) in Japan: Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Nonmedical use of prescription drugs can cause overdose; this represents a serious public health crisis globally. In this digital era, social networking services serve as viable platforms for illegal acquisition of excessive amounts of medications, including prescription medications. In Japan, such illegal drug transactions have been conducted through popular flea market applications, social media, and auction websites, with most of the trades being over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Recently, an emerging unique black market, where individuals trade prescription medications-predominantly nervous system drugs-using a specific keyword ("Okusuri Mogu Mogu"), has emerged on X (formerly Twitter). Hence, these dynamic methods of illicit trading should routinely be monitored to encourage the appropriate use of medications. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to specify the characteristics of medications traded on X using the search term "Okusuri Mogu Mogu" and analyze individual behaviors associated with X posts, including the types of medications traded and hashtag usage. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study with publicly available posts on X between September 18 and October 1, 2022. Posts that included the term "Okusuri Mogu Mogu" during this period were scrutinized. Posts were categorized on the basis of their contents: buying, selling, self-administration, heads-up, and others. Among posts categorized as buying, selling, and self-administration, medication names were systematically enumerated and categorized using the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification. Additionally, hashtags in all the analyzed posts were counted and classified into 6 categories: medication name, mental disorder, self-harm, buying and selling, community formation, and others. RESULTS: Out of 961 identified posts, 549 were included for analysis. Of these posts, 119 (21.7%) referenced self-administration, and 237 (43.2%; buying: n=67, 12.2%; selling: n=170, 31.0%) referenced transactions. Among these 237 posts, 1041 medication names were mentioned, exhibiting a >5-fold increase from the study in March 2021. Categorization based on the ATC classification predominantly revealed nervous system drugs, representing 82.1% (n=855) of the mentioned medications, consistent with the previous survey. Of note, the diversity of medications has expanded to include medications that have not been approved by the Japanese government. Interestingly, OTC medications were frequently mentioned in self-administration posts (odds ratio 23.6, 95% CI 6.93-80.15). Analysis of hashtags (n=866) revealed efforts to foster community connections among users. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted the escalating complexity of trading of illegal prescription medication facilitated by X posts. Regulatory measures to enhance public awareness should be considered to prevent illegal transactions, which may ultimately lead to misuse or abuse such as overdose. Along with such pharmacovigilance measures, social approaches that could direct individuals to appropriate medical or psychiatric resources would also be beneficial as our hashtag analysis shed light on the formation of a cohesive or closed community among users.

A threat to the natural World Heritage site rarely happens alone.

This study contributes an empirical investigation of the likelihood that different external threats to a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site occur in combination with each other when site characteristics and location are controlled for. For the purpose of the analysis, the World Heritage database and the UNESCO State of Conservation Reports are used and the nine most frequently appearing external threats are identified. These databases include 6852 site-year observations and 3316 threats over the period 1979-2023. The most commonly identified external threats are illegal activities, with eleven percent of all observations and mining with six percent. Transport infrastructure, tourism and visitor pressure are also common threats. Estimation results based on the multivariate Probit (equation system) model demonstrate that there are strong positive correlations between many pairs of the nine external threats. Most apparent are the links between illegal activities and loss of identity, social cohesion, changes in local population and community, water infrastructure (dams) and farming, as well as illegal activities and land conversion. There are also clear links between tourism and infrastructure. This emphasises that the various threats seldom appear in isolation from each other. Results also highlight that the threats have different drivers. Among the determinants, site characteristics and location are the most important ones. The likelihood of threats is highest for Natural Heritage Sites covered by forests or those in marine and coastal areas, Africa as well as the Arab region. It is also possible to identify a general increase in threats over time, although with a diminishing rate of growth towards the period 2015-2019. Contrary to this development and the general downturn in threats during the Covid-19 pandemic period of 2020-2023, pressure from tourism continues to grow. Methodologically, the results emphasize the need for multivariate Probit models when research goes beyond analyses of descriptive statistics and single equation approaches.

La dinámica del comercio ilegal de armas de fuego en Lima, Perú / The dynamics of the illegal firearms trade in Lima, Peru / A dinâmica do comércio ilegal de armas de fogo em Lima, Peru

El comercio ilegal de armas de fuego representa un problema significativo para mantener el orden y la seguridad del país, pues conlleva la adquisición de armas y municiones sin cumplir la normatividad y las regulaciones proporcionadas por el Estado, desviando la utilización de dichos equipos hacia la delincuencia. La investigación tiene como propósito analizar la dinámica del comercio ilegal de armas de fuego en Lima, Perú, mediante una metodología cualitativa y de diseño fenomenológico hermenéutico. La muestra incluye veinte funcionarios de la Policía Nacional del Perú (PNP) y la Superintendencia Nacional de Control de Servicios de Seguridad, Armas, Municiones y Explosivos de Uso Civil (Sucamec). La información se recolectó por medio de entrevistas semiestructuradas. El estudio concluye que el comercio ilegal de armas de fuego se estructura en tres fases clave: la primera fase determinada por la filtración o desvío de armas del mercado legal al ilegal, debido a la falta de control y fiscalización por las autoridades pertinentes. La segunda fase implica la creación de un mercado ilegal en espacios itinerantes, donde participan diversos actores, como intermediarios y compradores. La tercera y última fase comprende la consumación del delito, incluye la entrega del arma y el pago bajo estrictas medidas de seguridad para asegurar la impunidad de los involucrados.

The illegal trade in firearms represents a significant problem for the maintenance of order and security in the country, as it leads to the acquisition of arms and ammunition without complying with the norms and regulations provided by the State, diverting the use of such equipment towards crime. The purpose of this research is to analyse the dynamics of the illegal firearms trade in Lima, Peru, using a qualitative methodology and a hermeneutic phenomenological design. The sample includes twenty officers from the Peruvian National Police (PNP) and the National Superintendence for the Control of Security Services, firearms, Ammunition and Explosives for Civilian Use (Sucamec). The information was collected through semi-structured interviews. The study concludes that the illegal firearms trade is structured in three key phases: the first phase determined by the leakage or diversion of arms from the legal to the illegal market, due to the lack of control and oversight by the relevant authorities. The second phase involves the creation of an illegal market in itinerant spaces, where various actors, such as intermediaries and buyers, participate. The third and final phase involves the consummation of the crime, including the delivery of the weapon and payment under strict security measures to ensure the impunity of those involved.

O comércio ilegal de armas de fogo representa um problema significativo para a manutenção da ordem e da segurança no país, pois leva à aquisição de armas e munições sem o cumprimento das normas e regulamentos fornecidos pelo Estado, desviando o uso desses equipamentos para o crime. O objetivo desta pesquisa é analisar a dinâmica do comércio ilegal de armas de fogo em Lima, Peru, usando uma metodologia qualitativa e um desenho fenomenológico hermenêutico. A amostra inclui vinte policiais da Polícia Nacional do Peru (PNP) e da Superintendência Nacional de Controle de Serviços de Segurança, Armas, Munições e Explosivos para Uso Civil (Sucamec). As informações foram coletadas por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. O estudo conclui que o comércio ilegal de armas de fogo está estruturado em três fases principais: a primeira fase é determinada pelo vazamento ou desvio de armas do mercado legal para o ilegal, devido à falta de controle e fiscalização por parte das autoridades competentes. A segunda fase envolve a criação de um mercado ilegal em espaços itinerantes, onde vários atores, como intermediários e compradores, participam. A terceira e última fase envolve a consumação do crime, incluindo a entrega da arma e o pagamento sob rigorosas medidas de segurança para garantir a impunidade dos envolvidos.

Immigrant background, incarceration history and recidivism among adults assessed for illicit substance use severity: Findings from a Swedish registry study.

BACKGROUND: In Sweden, as in other countries, individuals with immigrant backgrounds are disproportionately represented within the incarcerated population. This study examined the association between immigrant background and future incarceration for individuals assessed for illicit substance use severity, while considering their prior incarceration history. METHODS: Using data from Swedish Addiction Severity Index (ASI) assessments linked to register data from Statistics Sweden, we employed Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) regression models to analyse differences in incarceration histories within five years before and after ASI assessments based on immigrant backgrounds. Additionally, Cox proportional-hazard models were used to assess the likelihood of post-assessment incarceration among these groups. RESULTS: Immigrant background was positively associated with pre- and post-assessment incarceration. First- and second-generation immigrants from the Global South had longer periods of incarceration in the five years before assessments compared to native Swedes. Post-assessment, first-generation immigrants showed longer periods of incarceration. Survival analyses supported these findings, indicating a higher risk of prolonged post-assessment incarceration among all immigrant groups, particularly first-generation immigrants from the Global South. CONCLUSION: Among individuals assessed for illicit drug use within Swedish municipalities, those with immigrant backgrounds faced higher incarceration risks, even after controlling for substance use severity and prior incarceration. Tailored interventions and support systems are vital to prevent re-entry into the criminal justice system. Timely actions can break re-offending cycles, redirecting paths away from reoffending and towards legal reintegration, thereby reducing incarceration and recidivism rates.

Illegal products containing selective androgen receptor modulators purchased online from Italy: health risks for consumers.

Background: Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are small synthetic drug molecules that are still not approved as medicine in Europe or the United States but are sold on illegal websites to improve sport performance, particularly bodybuilding. Aim: To address the quality issues of illegal SARM products and their increasing diffusion in Italy with their potential health risks for consumers. Methods: Web-based tools were used to investigate retail websites, trending searches, and information exchange via social media. Thirteen SARM products, purchased on retail websites accessible from Italy, were subject to visual inspection and chemical analysis by mass spectrometry and quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance. Outcomes: The primary outcome was demonstration of additional health risks due to the illicit presence of other active ingredients, contamination, and misdosage in SARM products sold on the internet. The secondary outcome was to show the increasing trend of interest in Italy for these products. Results: Most websites reported misleading information; specifically, the statement "for research only" was reported notwithstanding indications on dosage and training phases. The trending search showed that interest toward SARMs increased in Italy in the last years. The use of these products is clearly encouraged by the emerging phenomenon of "broscience" as revealed in socials. Visual inspection evidenced nonconform labeling. Qualitative analysis confirmed the presence of the stated SARM in about 70% of samples. In 23% of samples, the expected SARM was not detected but a different one instead, and in 1 sample, no SARMs were detected. Other undeclared pharmaceutical substances (tamoxifen, clomifene, testosterone, epimethandienone, tadalafil) were measured in 30% of samples. The copresence of >1 active substance was observed in >60% of samples. Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance data showed nonuniform content ranging from 30% to 90% of the label claim. Clinical Implications: The use of SARMs, in the presence of unexpected life-threatening reactions in persons using the products to increase sport performance, should be assessed. Strengths and Limitations: This investigation involved an integrated approach to study SARM products and related sociologic aspects. The main shortcomings are the limited number of samples and retail websites in the clear web investigated. Conclusion: SARMs sold online as food supplement-like products represent a health hazard due to the presence of unapproved and undeclared active substances. The presence of contaminants clearly indicates the absence of good manufacturing practices in the production, which increases the health risks.

Health in Persons Deprived of Their Liberty in South America: A Painful Reflection of Our Public Health.

Objectives: To describe sociodemographic characteristics and health-related data in persons deprived of liberty (PDL) from South America in the last five years. Methods: Documentary descriptive study. Results: There are 1.5 million PDL in Latin America and the Caribbean; the average overcrowding is 64%; 58% do not sleep in beds, 20% do not have access to clean water and 29% do not receive medical care. In Peru, during 2021, there were 87,245 PDL and 69 penal institutions. The national average overcrowding is 120%, the second-highest in South America. In South America, the prevalence of tuberculosis is 2.0% SD = 0.64 and the median of illegal substances prevalence is 34.6 (IQR = 7.5-41.4). In Peru, the prevalence of tuberculosis has decreased since 2016 (4.3%), 2018(3.5%), and 2021(2.5%). Among the health problems by country, there were more data on substance use: 8/10, and tuberculosis, 7/10 countries. Cardiovascular diseases had the least available data. Regarding COVID-19, during the first wave in Peru, 54% of the total PPL were infected, and by the end of the wave, 446 PDL and 46 members of the prison staff had died. In Colombia, between April and October 2020, there were 16,804 cases (80 in ICU) and 136 deaths. In Brazil, up to March 2021, 340 people had died, and there were over 67,000 infections. Conclusions: Overcrowding is an unresolved problem; tuberculosis and substance use are the most frequent issues. Data are limited in quality, homogeneity and availability. Greater effort is needed from health authorities to improve health management and information systematization. Source: MesH.