How Does Tourism Affect Protected Areas?: A Multi-Criteria Decision Making Application in UNESCO Natural Heritage Sites

The tourism is an industry that makes extensive use of natural heritage sites. It has long been debated whether tourism is a threat to natural heritage sites. This research has been written to contribute to these discussions. In the study, the author(s) aims to determine the effects and threat levels of tourism in World Natural Heritage Sites. Within the scope of the research, the impact of tourism on 24 samples selected from UNESCO natural heritage sites was examined with multi-criteria decision-making methods. According to the results of the research, the highest endangerment level among the selected NHS are "Lake Malawi National Park", "Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary" and "Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park", while "Atlantic Forest Southeast Reserves", "Sinharaja Forest Conservation Area" and "Vredefort Dome" were found to be the least affected sites. The research results were discussed with the implications developed in accordance with the contexts of the selected NHS.

Mapping nationally and globally at-risk species to identify hotspots for (and gaps in) conservation

Protecting habitat of species-at-risk is critical to their recovery, but can be contentious. For example, protecting species that are locally imperilled but globally common (e.g. species that only occur in a jurisdiction at the edge of their geographic range) is often thought to distract from protecting globally-imperilled species. However, such perceived trade-offs are based on the assumption that threatened groups have little spatial overlap, which is rarely quantified. Here, we compile range maps of terrestrial species-at-risk in Canada to assess the geographic overlap of nationally and globally at-risk species with each other, among taxonomic groups, and with protected areas. While many nationally-at-risk taxa only occurred in Canada at their northern range edge (median=4% of range in Canada), nationally-at-risk species were not significantly more peripheral in Canada than globally-at-risk species. Further, 56% of hotspots of nationally-at-risk taxa were also hotspots of globally-at-risk taxa in Canada, undercutting the perceived trade-off in their protection. Hotspots of nationally-at-risk taxa also strongly overlapped with hotspots of individual taxonomic groups, though less so for mammals. While strong spatial overlap across threat levels and taxa should facilitate efficient habitat protection, <7% of the area in Canada's at-risk hotspots is protected, and more than 70% of nationally and globally-at-risk species in Canada have <10% of their Canadian range protected. Our results counter the perception that protecting nationally vs. globally at-risk species are at odds, and identify critical areas to target as Canada strives to increase its protected areas and promote species-at-risk recovery.

Plastering mud around the entrance hole affects the estimation of threat levels from nest predators in Eurasian Nuthatches

Background For cavity-nesting birds, the nest entrance plays an important role in preventing predators from accessing nests. Several species of nuthatches use mud to narrow the entrance of cavities. In theory, the smaller the entrance hole size, the more effective it is against predators; however, few studies have tested whether narrowing the entrance hole size can affect the estimation of threat levels from nest predators in cavity-nesting birds. Methods Using dummy experiments, we tested whether Eurasian Nuthatches (Sitta europaea, narrow the entrance hole of cavities) and Cinereous Tits (Parus cinereus, do not narrow the entrance hole, as a control) perform different nest defence behaviours against Common Chipmunks (Tamias sibiricus, small nest predator) and Red Squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris, larger nest predator). Results Both nuthatches and tits exhibited stronger response behaviours (high dummy response scores) against chipmunks than against squirrels. Compared with tits, nuthatches exhibited more aggressive behaviours to chipmunks, but their responses to squirrels were similar. Conclusions Nest defence behaviours of nuthatches to chipmunks differed from tits, and the results suggested that nuthatches might estimate threat levels of nest predators according to their narrowed entrance-hole size.

Visualizing the terror threat

Terrorism represents one of the most pressing contemporary security threats. As a consequence, governments provide information to the public on threat levels and on how to respond to terror incidents. To effectively reassure the public, and to increase their vigilance, it is essential that the information communicated is accessible, clear, actionable and engaging. This is the first empirical study in the world to explore the impact of information design principles and visualization of information on the communication of security information related to terrorism. Two different but complementary strands were devised: Strand 1 - compared whether more visualized information was more effective than text dense information at communicating to the public; Strand 2 - compared whether a motion graphics was more effective than an infographic at communicating to the public. An initial usability test was conducted to identify existing problems and needs. Several other usability tests and iterations were then conducted to develop new design solutions. Empirical testing was then conducted for final evaluation and validation, collecting quantitative and qualitative data. Results show significant differences between pre- and post-knowledge of the Terror Threat Levels. Results also show significant differences between text dense information and more visualized information. Results further show no significant difference between communicating information via an infographic or motion graphics in situations where information needs to be assimilated as a crescendo (i.e. levels of severity) or as a series of steps to be followed (action in an emergency). This study provides important guidelines on how to effectively communicate security information to the public, with practical implications for security agencies.

Threat patterns and conservation status of endemic vascular flora in Argentina: a quantitative perspective

Global warming, coupled with habitat destruction and human activity, are accelerating the rates of species extinction worldwide. Species-extinction risk assessment, using the IUCN Red List categories, together with the study of the spatial patterns of biodiversity, are fundamental approaches to identify conservation priorities and targeting government decisions to mitigate impacts on biodiversity. Here, we analyzed threat levels of endemic species for the entire Argentinean vascular flora. Accordingly, we classified species following the IUCN threat categories and analyze threat levels on the different families, plant life-forms, and biogeographic regions of the country. We also analyzed spatial patterns of threat by means of macroecological modeling techniques, and explored the effectiveness of current protected areas in relation to the threatened endemics they actually included. The results showed that of the 1683 Argentinean endemic taxa, 800 species were here categorized under threat (VU, EN, or CR) (~47%). Families with the highest number of threatened species were also those with the highest number of endemics; herbs and climbing plants presented significantly higher threat levels, and among biogeographic provinces, the most affected in terms of threat proportion were the Altoandina, Yungas, and Paranaense. In addition, different hotspots of threatened endemism were detected, mainly associated with mountainous areas with high altitudinal heterogeneity; of these, only nearly half are included, at least partially, within a protected area. An up-to-date species list of Argentinean endemics, including their proposed conservation status, is also provided. This work seeks to contribute to the knowledge on geographical patterns of the Argentinean flora and its conservation, complementing the information published in the Flora of Argentina.

Tracking the rising extinction risk of sharks and rays in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea

The loss of biodiversity is increasingly well understood on land, but trajectories of extinction risk remain largely unknown in the ocean. We present regional Red List Indices (RLIs) to track the extinction risk of 119 Northeast Atlantic and 72 Mediterranean shark and ray species primarily threatened by overfishing. We combine two IUCN workshop assessments from 2003/2005 and 2015 with a retrospective backcast assessment for 1980. We incorporate predicted categorisations for Data Deficient species from our previously published research. The percentage of threatened species rose from 1980 to 2015 from 29 to 41% (Northeast Atlantic) and 47 to 65% (Mediterranean Sea). There are as many threatened sharks and rays in Europe as there are threatened birds, but the threat level is nearly six times greater by percentage (41%, n = 56 of 136 vs. 7%, n = 56 of 792). The Northeast Atlantic RLI declined by 8% from 1980 to 2015, while the higher-risk Mediterranean RLI declined by 13%. Larger-bodied, shallow-distributed, slow-growing species and those with range boundaries within the region are more likely to have worsening status in the Northeast Atlantic. Conversely, long-established, severe threat levels obscure any potential relationships between species’ traits and the likelihood of worsening IUCN status in the Mediterranean Sea. These regional RLIs provide the first widespread evidence for increasing trends in regional shark and ray extinction risk and underscore that effective fisheries management is necessary to recover the ecosystem function of these predators.

Burning Season: Challenges to Conserve Biodiversity and the Critical Points of a Planet Threatened by the Danger Called Global Warming

Aim: Due to their biological richness and threat levels, the Cerrado and the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, along with other regions located in different parts of the planet, are identified a global hotspots and need greater attention due to the problems generated by global warming. Objective: This article addresses general aspects of the planet's biodiversity, the improvement of ecosystem conservation in Brazil and in the world. Methodology: We carried out an approach on the environmental situation in relation to global warming, the problems generated to the fauna and flora and the conditions in which the biomes of the Midwest region of Brazil are found. Results: The State of Mato Grosso, located in the heart of South America, Brazil, encompasses in its territory the biodiversity of three large biomes: the Amazon, the Cerrado and the Pantanal. The cerrado, a savanna mosaic biome with 38.9% of the state's territory, is home to 30% of Brazilian biodiversity and 5% of the planet's species. In Mato Grosso Amazonia, the main anthropic pressure is caused by exploration, deforestation, crops and livestock. In the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, one of the largest continuous wetlands on the planet, it is marked by peculiarities, such as dry and flood seasons, low fertility soils, difficult access, among others, which restricted its occupation and human interference. Conclusion: Finally, these biomes are areas of relevant interest for conservation and for environmental and ecosystem services, these biomes in the state are under threat and need attention from civil society and government in different spheres. General aspects of the biodiversity of biomes distributed in the territory of Mato Grosso/Brazil, socio-environmental challenges, conservation units and public and private policy initiatives that affect conservation, require active conservation intervention measures to harmonize investment activities with the priorities of biodiversity conservation.

Update on Distribution and Conservation Status of Amphibians in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea: Conclusions Based on Field Surveys, Environmental Modelling, Molecular Analyses and Call Properties

Determining the range, status, ecology and behaviour of species from areas where surveys and samplings are uncommon or difficult to conduct is a challenge, such as in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea). Here, we used genetic samples, field surveys, call recordings, photographic identification and a literature review to estimate the presence, range and status of amphibians in the DPR Korea. From our combined results and based on the IUCN Red List categories and criteria, we were able to estimate the national threat levels for most species. Our results demonstrated the presence of 18 native species and the suspected presence of Karsenia koreana and two Onychodactylus species. We reported the first record for Rana uenoi in the vicinity of Pyongyang using molecular tools and similarly confirmed the presence of Dryophytes japonicus at the same location. Based on distribution and modelling, we can expect the contact zone between species within the Rana and Onychodactylus genera to be located along the Changbai Massif, a mountain range that marks a shift in ecoregions and acts as a barrier to dispersion. The species richness was higher in the lowlands and at lower latitudes, with such areas populated by up to 11 species, while more northern regions were characterised by species richness of about half of that value. The combination of ecological models and known threats resulted in the recommendation of ten species as threatened at the national level following the IUCN Red List categories and criteria. This high number of threatened species was anticipated based on the high threat level to amphibians in bordering nations and globally. While the ecology of species in the DPR Korea is still understudied, we argue that species relying on agricultural wetlands such as rice paddies are not under imminent threat due to the enduring presence of extensive agricultural landscapes with low rates of chemical use and mechanisation. The maintenance of such landscapes is a clear benefit to amphibian species, in contrast to more industrialised agricultural landscapes in neighbouring nations. In comparison, the status of species dependent on forested habitats is unclear and threat levels are likely to be higher because of deforestation, as in neighbouring nations.

African corporates face rising cybercrime risks

Significance The cost, frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks is increasing worldwide, widening the gap between cyber preparedness and threat levels. Yet the continued lack of investment by African corporates in cybersecurity and a limited number of qualified technicians mean that key institutions are failing to strengthen their security in line with rising risk. Impacts Costly cyberattacks threaten the sustainability of weaker financial institutions, especially poorly performing, under-capitalised banks. Phishing, hacking and ransomware attacks erode public confidence in online services, constraining the expansion of online banking. Poor IT infrastructure and technical education will impede the creation of a local cybersecurity talent pool.

P–479 Are FET and IUI cycles less emotionally difficult for patients than IVF? Evidence from smartphone app based emotional tracking data

Study question Is the emotional experience different in FET and stimulated IUI cycles compared to IVF cycles? Summary answer Emotional tracking data demonstrated cautious optimism and lower harm emotions in IUI, but FET cycles are associated with higher harm emotions than fresh IVF. What is known already It is sometimes claimed on clinic websites and by advocates for elective freeze all that FET cycles are inherently less stressful. However, little research evaluates the emotional difference between fresh and frozen cycles and the assumed emotional ease of FET may reflect clinician interpretation/bias rather than patient’s lived experiences. Many undertaking FET will have experienced disappointment in a fresh cycle and with increasing cycles comes increased cost. IUI treatment is perceived as less physically and emotionally intense, but studies have shown increased depression levels after a failed IUI cycle and high drop-out. Study design, size, duration Retrospective single-centre analysis of anonymised emotional tracking data entered by 707 patients using MediEmo app alongside IVF, 104 during stimulated IUI and 65 during medicated FET from May 2017-September 2020. MediEmo includes medication timeline/ notifications, coping tools and emotional tracking. Patients rate 2 questions daily in each emotion domain (challenge, threat, harm, e.g. ‘I am feeling tense’) on a 0–3 scale and indicate coping ability (‘I am unable to cope with the stress I’m experiencing’). Participants/materials, setting, methods Egg donor, recipient and fertility preservation cycles were excluded. Mean and standard deviation of scores in each mood domain entered per cycle day were calculated, centred on luteal day 0/ egg collection, from cycle day +/–14. Between group analysis performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) is presented here. Time series analysis, graphical presentation of emotions by cycle day and analysis of cycles resulting in live birth or return for further treatment will be presented. Main results and the role of chance Analysis of emotional tracking data demonstrated patients experience higher levels of positive challenge emotions (confident/encouraged/hopeful/positive) during FET and IUI cycles than fresh IVF: mean(s.d) score FET 1.64(1.1), IUI 1.74(0.89), IVF 1.48(1.06) (ANOVA p &lt; 0.00001). The difference between FET and IUI challenge levels was not significant (p = 0.07). Threat emotions (worried/nervous/anxious/tense) are significantly lower in FET compared to IVF and IUI cycles: FET mean 0.67(0.91), IUI 0.97(0.90), IVF 0.87(0.91), (ANOVA p &lt; 0.00001). The difference between IVF and IUI threat levels was not significant (p = 0.06). However, the harm emotions (sad/discouraged/disappointed) experienced by patients are significantly higher in FET, mean 0.62(0.89) compared to IVF 0.50(0.81), which are higher than IUI cycles, 0.36(0.68), (ANOVA p &lt; 0.00001). There were no significant differences in numbers recording intolerable stress between the three groups (FET mean scores 0.24(0.66), IUI 0.21(0.58), IVF 0.21(0.59), (ANOVA p = 0.67). As this is retrospective observational data, there are differences between groups in addition to treatment modality, e.g. mean patient ages in the FET and IUI groups were older than those entering data during IVF; FET 34.2(4.09), IUI 33.9(5.2), IVF 32.6(4.47). However, age was not correlated with levels of challenge emotions, suggesting assumptions that patient emotions, e.g. hopefulness, are closely linked to objective prognosis may be flawed. Limitations, reasons for caution Emotional data was only available for those who chose to use MediEmo, entered emotional tracking data and who gave consent for use of data in research. As such, this analysis may not fully reflect all patients’ experiences. However, these limitations apply to all groups and should not prevent useful comparison. Wider implications of the findings: Patients have less contact with clinic staff during FET or IUI than fresh IVF cycles. Fertility staff need to ensure availability of support during all treatment cycles and be empathic, particularly for those embarking on FET, who may still be coming to terms with a failed fresh transfer cycle. Trial registration number Not applicable