In this episode of RUSI Reflects, Genevieve Kotarska, Research Fellow, Organised Crime and Policing, examines the implications of new oil and gas licences for the UK’s future energy security.
Can War Funders and Profiteers Be Responsible for Crimes in Ukraine?
The potential moral and legal responsibility of all those people for the crimes in Ukraine is a crucial, yet largely overlooked, issue. Historically, these are not altogether uncharted waters. As explored in an excellent book edited by Nina H B Jørgensen, funding international crimes, as well as providing material supplies such as weapons in support of them, can be a form of complicity under international criminal law. As some of the book’s chapters discuss, demonstrating that the funder knew their actions would assist the commission of a crime is likely to be the crucial hurdle, albeit one that can no doubt be satisfied in some circumstances. Conversely, ‘merely’ profiting from international crimes does not, in and of itself, trigger international criminal responsibility.
Way Forward
There may, therefore, be a disconnect between the moral and political assessment of war profiteers’ and, in some cases, funders’ role in Russia’s war in Ukraine and their legal responsibility. Some of them will no doubt be caught by existing rules, such as those who directly run private military companies that commit war crimes under their command. Others, such as those involved downstream in the theft and transfer of Ukrainian grain, may be left out.
For a complete legal assessment, one would need to study potential international crimes committed in Ukraine one by one – from murder to pillage, and beyond – and consider how financial involvement in them interacts with existing complicity rules. It would seem the need for such analysis is urgent, which is a task that governments and academics alike could usefully undertake.
If a bespoke Ukraine war crimes tribunal was established, particularly complex issues would arise. On the one hand, its statute could in principle provide for dedicated rules covering the funding of, or profiting from, international crimes committed in Ukraine. This would be consistent with the tribunal’s overarching objective to bring to accountability those with the greatest power over, and responsibility for, the war. On the other hand, in doing so, one would need to be careful to respect the fundamental legal principle that one cannot be liable for conduct that did not constitute a crime at the time it was committed. Overall, this is a matter that merits far greater prominence in the development of the emerging plans for bringing those responsible for Russia’s crimes to account.
The views expressed in this Commentary are the author’s, and do not represent those of RUSI or any other institution.
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Nancy Cartwright: The Voice Behind Bart Simpson
Nancy Cartwright is a renowned voice talent known for her iconic portrayal of Bart Simpson, the mischievous and lovable character from the long-running animated series “The Simpsons.” With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Cartwright has become a respected figure in the world of voice acting. In this article, we will explore Cartwright’s journey, her tips for success, and her impact on the field of voice acting.
The Beginnings of a Voiceover Artist
Her passion for voice acting began during her high school years when she was actively involved in the speech club. This early interest in performing and using her voice as a tool for expression laid the foundation for her future career. Little did she know that her talent would lead her to become one of the most recognizable voices in television history.
Cartwright’s breakthrough came when she auditioned for the role of Bart Simpson in 1987. Her unique voice and ability to capture Bart’s mischievous and rebellious nature impressed the show’s creators, and she was chosen to bring the character to life. Since then, Cartwright has been the voice of Bart Simpson, delighting audiences with her energetic and distinctive portrayal.
Tips for Success in Voice Acting
Throughout her career, Nancy Cartwright has accumulated valuable insights and tips for aspiring voice actors. Here are some of her key pieces of advice:
- Develop Your Own Unique Voice: She emphasizes the importance of finding your own voice and embracing your uniqueness. She encourages aspiring voice actors to experiment with different vocal styles and characters to discover their strengths and stand out from the crowd.
- Study and Learn from the Best: She believes in the power of continuous learning and improvement. She recommends studying the work of successful voice actors and taking inspiration from their techniques. By observing and analyzing the performances of industry veterans, aspiring voice actors can gain valuable insights and refine their craft.
- Be Professional and Prepared: Being professional is crucial in the voice acting industry. Cartwright stresses the importance of being punctual, reliable, and prepared for auditions and recording sessions. This includes doing thorough research on the character and project, practising the script, and being open to direction and feedback.
- Embrace Physicality in Character Development: Cartwright believes that physicality plays a significant role in bringing characters to life. She emphasizes the importance of using body movements and gestures to enhance vocal performances and create more dynamic and believable characters.
- Seize Opportunities: Cartwright encourages aspiring voice actors to seize every opportunity that comes their way. Whether it’s attending workshops, taking classes, or networking with industry professionals, she believes that every experience can contribute to growth and development in the field.
Impact and Legacy
Nancy Cartwright’s portrayal of Bart Simpson has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Her unique voice and memorable catchphrases have become synonymous with the character, making Bart an iconic figure in television history. Cartwright’s dedication to her craft and her ability to bring characters to life have earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base.
Beyond her work on “The Simpsons,” Cartwright has also lent her voice to various other animated projects, showcasing her versatility as a voice actor. Her contributions to the industry have inspired aspiring voice actors and left a lasting impact on the field.
Cartwright is not only known for her achievements as a voice actor but also for her participation and contributions to humanitarian activities such as human rights, drug prevention, alphabetization, and her association with the Church of Scientology. Her contributions to the world of voice acting are highly acknowledged, and her connection to Scientology continues to generate curiosity.
In conclusion, Nancy Cartwright’s talent and dedication have made her one of the most respected and influential voice actors in the industry. Her portrayal of Bart Simpson has become legendary, and her tips for success provide valuable insights for aspiring voice actors. Through her work, Cartwright has left an enduring legacy and continues to inspire future generations of voice talent.
The Evolution of Sound: Exploring the Latest Trends in Music
Music is an art form that has evolved significantly over the years. From classical compositions to modern-day genres, every generation brings forth new trends and styles. The evolution of sound is an ongoing process, influenced by technological advancements, cultural shifts, and the creativity of musicians. In this article, we will delve into the latest trends in music and how they have shaped the industry.
The Rise of Electronic Music
Electronic music has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity in recent years. What started as a niche subgenre has now become a dominant force in the music industry. The combination of synthesizers, computer-generated sounds, and intricate production techniques has revolutionized the way we consume music. Genres like techno, house, dubstep, and EDM (Electronic Dance Music) have gained mass appeal, dominating airwaves, festivals, and even mainstream pop charts.
The accessibility of technology has played a significant role in the rise of electronic music. With the advent of home studios and software programs, budding musicians can now create intricate beats and melodies from the comfort of their homes. This democratization of music production has empowered artists from diverse backgrounds to experiment and bring new sounds to the forefront.
Furthermore, the rise of electronic music has led to the blurring of genre boundaries. Artists are now more willing to fuse different styles and experiment with unconventional sounds, resulting in a melting pot of influences. This blending of genres has given rise to subgenres like trap, future bass, and tropical house, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of sound.
The Power of Streaming and Digital Platforms
Another significant trend in music is the dominance of streaming and digital platforms. The advent of platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube has not only changed the way we consume music but also how artists create and promote their work. This shift from physical to digital formats has had a profound impact on the industry.
Streaming platforms have given artists a wider audience reach, enabling them to connect with fans globally. It has also provided a space for unknown or independent artists to share their music without relying solely on record labels. The focus has shifted towards creating catchy singles and engaging with fans through social media rather than relying solely on album sales.
Furthermore, streaming platforms have altered the way artists earn revenue from their music. With the decline in physical album sales, artists now rely on streaming platforms for income. However, the economics of streaming are still a topic of debate, as artists earn a fraction of a cent per stream.
According to a study, on Spotify for a monthly subscription paid for 9.99 euros: 6.54 euros would be donated to intermediaries (70% to producers, 30% to the music platform), 1.99 euros for the State (VAT), 1 euro for royalties, finally the artists listened to would share 0.46 euro57.
The ranking of streaming platforms according to the number of listens necessary for an artist to obtain one euro:
- Napster : 59.
- Tidal : 89.
- Apple Music : 151.
- Deezer : 174.
- Spotify : 254.
- Amazon Music : 277.
- YouTube Music : 1612.
This has led to discussions about fair compensation for artists and the need for industry reform.
The evolution of sound in music is a dynamic process driven by technology, culture, and the creative instincts of musicians. From the rise of electronic music to the dominance of streaming platforms, the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. As new technologies emerge and global influences intertwine, it is exciting to think about the future trends that will shape the music we hear tomorrow. Artists are pushing boundaries, collaborating across genres, and constantly redefining our auditory experiences. Undoubtedly, the evolution of sound is an ever-unfolding narrative that keeps music vibrant and alive.
New research reveals the benefits of napping during the day
Scientists analysed data from studies involving nearly 380,000 individuals aged 40 to 69.
In recent years, several studies have been published on the impact of daytime sleep on health. For instance, it is suggested to be linked with a heightened likelihood of stroke among older individuals. If daytime sleep exceeds 8 hours, there is a risk of reduced life expectancy. However, researchers from the USA and Uruguay hold contrasting viewpoints. In the journal Sleep Health, they present arguments advocating the advantages of daytime sleep.
These scientists examined data from studies encompassing nearly 380,000 individuals aged 40 to 69. The primary objective was to establish the correlation between daytime sleep and brain health. The researchers observed that individuals who tend to nap during the day possess a greater total brain volume.
Especially in the elderly, this serves as an indicator of good health, as a decrease in brain volume is typically associated with dementia and other cognitive disorders. With age, the organ diminishes in size, leading to a decline in cognitive functions. The findings revealed that the brains of individuals who nap were 2.6 to 6.5 years “younger.”
In conclusion, a definite connection indeed exists between daytime sleep and larger brain volume. The practice of taking a 10-15 minute nap during the day, according to scientists, enhances cognitive abilities, slows down the aging process, and improves memory.
This isn’t the first instance of disparate scientific opinions regarding the same phenomenon. Such contradictions and disparities are intrinsic to the development of science. But what is an ordinary person to do? The simplest advice, perhaps, is to avoid extremes and prioritize one’s own intuition.
By the way, the afternoon nap is a centuries-old tradition in many Mediterranean countries.
Nonetheless, sleep quality holds greater significance for one’s overall quality of life than sleep duration. This was established by a study conducted by Czech researchers and reported by Neuroscience News in the open-access journal PLOS ONE.
While numerous studies have connected sleep quality to an individual’s overall quality of life,
there is limited research on the relative influence of changes in sleep duration, quality, and timing on long-term quality of life.
To delve into this query, Michaela Kudrnachova from the Faculty of Social Sciences at Charles University in Prague and Aleš Kudrnach of the Institute of Sociology of the Czech Academy of Sciences employed data from the annual Czech household survey spanning from 2018 to 2020. Diverse adults within the same household participated in the survey; a total of 5,132 Czech adults responded in 2018, 2,046 in 2019, and 2,161 in 2020.
The authors analysed responses to queries related to life satisfaction, well-being, happiness, subjective health, and workplace stress, alongside self-reported responses concerning sleep duration, sleep quality, and instances where socially determined sleep patterns conflicted with innate biological rhythms (e.g., starting a new job with different working hours).
At the individual level, reported sleep quality displayed significant associations with all five quality-of-life measures, excluding workplace stress. Furthermore, sleep quality exhibited a significantly positive relationship with all measures of quality of life.
The study revealed that sleep duration was significantly linked to subjective health and happiness, while the misalignment between the biological sleep rhythm and the rhythm dictated by social obligations was notably associated with life satisfaction and workplace stress.
Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/apartment-bed-carpet-chair-269141/
Extreme Summer Scorching Heat and Wildfires
In a summer marked by extremes, dangerous weather events have wreaked havoc across the Northern Hemisphere, inflicting severe damage on both human health and the environment. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), this summer has witnessed a series of alarming occurrences, including intense heatwaves, record-breaking rainfall, wildfires, and marine heatwaves. Let us delve into the WMO’s report, featuring expert voices and quotes from their study, to gain deeper insights into the implications of these extreme events.
“The extreme weather – an increasingly frequent occurrence in our warming climate – is having a major impact on human health, ecosystems, economies, agriculture, energy, and water supplies. This underlines the increasing urgency of cutting greenhouse gas emissions as quickly and as deeply as possible.” – WMO Secretary-General Prof. Petteri Taalas.
“In addition, we have to step up efforts to help society adapt to what is, unfortunately, becoming the new normal. The WMO community is providing forecasts and warnings to protect lives and livelihoods as we strive to achieve our goal of Early Warnings for All.” – Prof. Petteri Taalas.
The Heatwaves: Setting New Records
China experienced a new national daily temperature record in July, with the Sanbao weather station in Turpan City in China’s Xinjiang province registering a temperature of 52.2°C on 16 July, setting a new national temperature record according to a report by the China Meteorological Administration.
Europe and North Africa reported new maximum temperature records. In Catalonia, Figueres recorded a new temperature record of 45.4 °C on 18 July (provisional all-time maximum). Similarly, a station on the Italian island of Sardinia recorded a scorching 48.2°C on 24 July.
Iran faced a staggering 50°C in early August, topping the list of extreme temperatures.
North America’s Battle with Heatwaves
Parts of the USA endured extensive heatwaves, and Phoenix, Arizona, suffered through the hottest July on record, with an average temperature of 102.7°F (39.3°C). According to the US National Weather Service, Phoenix recorded 31 days, as of 30 July, of daytime temperatures above 110 °F (43.3 °C). The overnight low temperatures were repeatedly more than 90°F (32.2°C).
Health experts have emphasized the importance of considering minimum temperatures in addressing the impact of heat waves on human health and infrastructure. “We need to broaden the focus beyond maximum temperatures because the minimum temperature is most important for health and critical infrastructure,” said WMO’s extreme heat senior advisor John Nairn.
Wildfires: A Trail of Destruction
Canada faced its worst wildfire season in history, with over 650 wildfires raging and more than 11 million hectares already burnt in 2023 – compared to the 10-year average of about 800,000 hectares. The resultant emissions significantly impacted air quality, affecting millions of people across North America.
“The total estimated wildfire carbon emissions for the year to date reached double the previous Canadian annual total,” reported the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) as of the end of July.
Marine Heatwaves: Oceans in Crisis
Rising sea surface temperatures have led to severe marine heatwaves, with the Mediterranean Sea experiencing exceptionally high temperatures, exceeding 30 °C in some parts, and more than 4 °C above average in a large part of the western Mediterranean.
“The impacts of marine heatwaves include migration of species and extinctions, arrival of invasive species with consequences for fisheries and aquaculture,” stated the WMO.
Heavy Rains and Floods: Asia’s Ordeal
China’s capital, Beijing, and the province of Hebei experienced record-breaking rainfall induced by tropical cyclones, leading to significant casualties and prompting major relief and rescue operations.
“As the planet warms, the expectation is that we will see more and more intense, more frequent, more severe rainfall events, leading also to more severe flooding,” said Stefan Uhlenbrook, Director of hydrology, water, and cryosphere at WMO.
In northern India, heavy monsoonal rainfall and flooding caused dozens of fatalities, with the mountainous state of Himachal Pradesh being badly hit, along with the regions of Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. New Delhi reportedly marked its wettest July day in 40 years, with 153 millimetres (6 inches) of rain falling in one day.
Urgent Action Needed
The WMO’s report sheds light on the severity of extreme weather events and underlines the necessity for global efforts to combat climate change, adapt to these new challenges, and protect lives and livelihoods. As we strive to achieve the goal of early warnings for all, our ability to mitigate the impact of such events will depend on immediate and collective action on a global scale. The summer of [current year] has served as a stark reminder of the urgent action needed to address climate change and its far-reaching consequences.
Lalish, The Heart of the Yazidi Faith
Lalish, a tiny mountain village in Kurdistan with a population of just 25, is the holiest place on earth for the Yazidi people. It is to the Yazidis what Mecca is to Muslims. The Yazidi religion is known to be secretive, and Lalish is a place of pilgrimage for Yazidis from all over the world.
Who are the Yazidis?
The Yazidis are an ancient Kurdish minority faith whose members have been in flight since early August, scattered by the tempestuous advance of Islamic State (IS) insurgents into Sinjar, a majority Yazidi town in northwestern Iraq, and its surroundings. Yazidis are branded by many Christians and Muslims as devil worshipers and have often been persecuted. The sect follows the teachings of Sheik Adi, a holy man who died in 1162, and whose crypt lies in the shrine in the Lalish Valley, about 15 miles east of Mosul. The shrine’s graceful, fluted spires poke above the trees and dominate the fertile valley. Yazidis are not allowed to harm plants or animals in the valley, and pilgrims reverently wash themselves in the streams in purification rites before visiting the shrine.
The Yazidi faith is a syncretic religion that combines elements of Zoroastrianism, Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Yazidis believe in one God who created the world and entrusted it to seven angels, the most important of whom is Melek Taus, the Peacock Angel. The Yazidis believe that Melek Taus refused to bow down to Adam, the first human, and was cast out of heaven by God. Yazidis believe that Melek Taus repented and was forgiven by God, and that he is now the intermediary between God and humanity.
Lalish: The Sacred Site
Lalish and its temples are about 4,000 years old. Its main temple was built by ancient Sumerian and other early Mesopotamian civilizations. In 1162, the temple became the tomb for Sheikh Adi Ibn Musafir, considered by Yazidis to be a “peacock angel” – one of seven holy beings to whom God entrusted the world after creation. The temple complex is the holiest place on earth for Yazidis.
When visiting Lalish, one can feel the sense of cheer and happiness in the air. Children’s laughter floats through the trees, families picnic on hilltops, and people stroll without urgency. The Yazidis believe that Lalish is where Noah’s Ark first hit dry land after the flood and that it sits in the region they believe was the garden of Eden.
The Current Situation
In 2011, the mountain shrine of Lalish was an idyllic place, with old men sitting in the sunshine in prayer and conversation, women and children using their bare feet to crush olives for oil in ancient stone troughs, and the ancient temple that sits atop the holy site surrounded by shaded courtyards. However, the situation has changed drastically since then. The Yazidis are in exile from their spiritual homeland in Iraq, which dilutes their ancient culture. The situation is very bad, and people are very afraid about Lalish. Many of the families currently sheltering there are in immediate danger and might try to flee further from the ISIS advances.
The Persecution of Yazidis
The Yazidis have been persecuted for centuries, and their religion has been misunderstood and misrepresented by many. In August 2014, the Islamic State (IS) attacked the Yazidi community in Sinjar, killing and enslaving thousands of people. The Yazidis were targeted because they were seen as infidels and devil worshipers by the IS militants. The IS militants also destroyed Yazidi shrines and temples, including the Lalish temple complex.
The persecution of the Yazidis has been condemned by the international community, and efforts have been made to provide aid and support to the Yazidi refugees. However, the situation remains dire for many Yazidis, who have been displaced from their homes and forced to live in refugee camps.
The Future of Lalish
Despite the destruction of the Lalish temple complex by the IS militants, the Yazidi people remain committed to their faith and to their sacred site. Efforts are underway to rebuild the temple complex and to restore the shrines and temples that were destroyed. The Yazidis are also working to preserve their ancient culture and traditions, which have been threatened by the violence and persecution they have faced.
The future of Lalish and the Yazidi people remains uncertain, but the resilience and determination of the Yazidis give hope that they will be able to overcome the challenges they face. Lalish will always be the heart of the Yazidi faith, a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of hope and resilience for the Yazidi people.
Conclusion I would finish by summarizing that Lalish is a sacred site for the Yazidi people, and it is a place of pilgrimage for Yazidis from all over the world. The situation in Iraq has made it difficult for Yazidis to visit Lalish, and many are in exile from their spiritual homeland. Despite this, Lalish remains a symbol of hope and faith for the Yazidi people. The persecution of the Yazidis has been condemned by the international community, and efforts have been made to provide aid and support to the Yazidi refugees. The future of Lalish and the Yazidi people remains uncertain, but the resilience and determination of the Yazidis give hope that they will be able to overcome the challenges they face.
In China, some are using ancient technology to cool homes
The sky wells, also known as “air shafts,” serve as a means of ventilation and provide shade from the sun!
The sight of the massive residential complexes, which accommodate a significant portion of China’s population, is astonishing.
Just by looking at the enormous concrete buildings and imagining thousands of people living in confined spaces, one can feel overheated and claustrophobic.
This is the contemporary appearance of the country’s vast megacities. However, centuries ago, when life was quite different, the Chinese had their own method of constructing buildings that were environmentally friendly.
One aspect of this approach was the incorporation of sky wells in houses, similar to patios or atriums found in the southern regions of Spain. These are small courtyards, sometimes featuring water, designed to provide a cooling effect.
The traditional houses in southern and eastern China often feature a characteristic known as the “heavenly well.” Unlike the courtyard architecture seen in other parts of the country, this design is small, narrow, and less exposed to the elements. The upper part of the house is composed of elongated roofs, and this style of construction was common during the Ming and Qing dynasties from the 14th to the 20th century. The main feature of these houses is a small rectangular courtyard in the centre, with rooms surrounding it on all sides. The roofs of the building form the boundaries of this courtyard.
One of the main purposes of this architectural design was to maintain lower temperatures. When the wind blew over the building, it would enter through the opening of the courtyard and create an airflow that displaced the heated air. This airflow would then exit through the well. Additionally, the design allowed for better ventilation and the collection of rainwater. The well also served as a transitional space between the indoors and outdoors and acted as a heat buffer. It was most effective when filled with water, as the evaporation of the water would cool the air. Rainwater was collected in the well through gutters installed on the roofs.
In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in traditional Chinese architecture, including houses with sky wells. People are recognizing the benefits of these designs, and some buildings are being restored or newly constructed to incorporate sky wells. The return to these old methods is also in line with the government’s policy of promoting greener construction and energy efficiency. Architects are now incorporating the principles of sky wells into new buildings to improve ventilation and reduce electricity usage.
While the use of sky wells in modern architecture can be seen in buildings like the National Heavy Vehicle Engineering Technology Center, reviving these techniques is not without its challenges. The shape and size of traditional wells vary depending on the specific location and climate, so research and a tailored approach are necessary for their successful implementation today. However, apart from their practical benefits, the nostalgia associated with these courtyards also stems from the sense of togetherness and communication they fostered among families.
Illustrative Photo by Maria Orlova: https://www.pexels.com/photo/tropical-resort-spa-with-moroccan-bath-pool-4916534/
Do we know how many calories we consume with alcohol?
As of December 2019, all alcohol bottles have energy content information on their labels
Manufacturers in Europe must declare the calories in alcohol on bottle labels. This comes after Brussels called on the industry to introduce its own rules to improve healthy habits.
If we have to give, as an example, the calories in a bottle of wine, which is equivalent to a few donuts or two greasy burgers, and a large whiskey – to two slices of cake.
They say that people who drink a lot of beer get fat. And there’s a good reason for that. Have you ever wondered how many calories are in a beer? Of all the alcoholic drinks on the market, we have compiled a table of the most suitable so that you can see the number of calories in different alcoholic drinks. Explore how calorie counts vary (mainly due to sugar content) in different types of beer and liquor, and decide how alcohol might affect your diet this year.
Although drinking alcoholic beverages has long been a human ritual, it is difficult to recommend it because of its nutritional value. Moreover, alcohol depletes the most important vitamins and minerals in the body: vitamins of group B, C, K and minerals – zinc, magnesium and potassium.
How many calories are in alcoholic beverages?
Pure alcohol is called ethanol. Its content in alcoholic beverages varies greatly, starting at 4.5% (beer), going through 13.5% (wine) and reaching up to 90% (absinthe). Not to mention that there are also drinks whose alcohol content is 96% (Polish Spiritus vodka), but this is pure alcohol for us.
The calorie content of ethanol is as many as 7 calories per gram. This is almost double the caloric content of proteins and carbohydrates, which contain only 4 calories per gram. Of course, this does not mean that 100 grams of vodka contains 700 calories. However, for the most part (at least most), alcoholic beverages are made up of water, which has zero energy value. To calculate the exact calorie content of a given drink, we need to do a few simple calculations.
Let’s take beer for example. The alcohol content in the beer is 4.5%. This means that there are 4.5 grams of ethanol in 100 grams (or milliliters). Since we already know that 1 gram of ethanol contains 7 calories, we can easily calculate that the calorie content of 100 milliliters of beer is 31.5 calories (7 x 4.5). This means that one beer (0.5 l) contains nearly 160 calories, and that’s just from ethanol (some drinks have some sugar and other nutrients that add to the caloric content).
Table of calories of alcoholic beverages
Product/Quantity -Energy value (kcal) -Proteins (g)- Lipids (g) -Carbohydrates (g):
Light beer/100 ml – 42 – 0.3 – 0.0 – 4.6
Brown beer/100 ml – 48 – 0.3 – 0.0 – 5.7
Beer without alcohol/100 ml – 27 – 0.2 – 0.0 – 5.2
Brandy 40%/100 ml – 225 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 0.5
Cognac 40%/100 ml – 239 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 0.1
Gin 40%/100 ml – 220 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 0.0
Liqueur 24%/100 ml – 345 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 53.0
Fruit liqueur/100 ml – 215 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 28.0
Ponch 26%/100 ml – 260 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 30.0
Rum 40%/100 ml – 220 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 0.0
Semi-sweet champagne/100 ml – 97 – 0.2 – 0.0 – 7.0
Semi-dry champagne/100 ml – 83 – 0.1 – 0.0 – 3.4
Sweet champagne/100 ml – 117 – 0.2 – 0.0 – 12.0
Sherry 20%/100 ml – 152 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 10.0
Vermouth 13%/100 ml – 158 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 15.9
Semi-sweet white wine/100 ml – 92 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 4.4
Dry white wine/100 ml – 73 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 2.4
Port wine 20%/100 ml – 167 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 13.7
Semi-dry wine/100 ml – 78 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 3.7
Madeira wine 18%/100 ml – 139 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 10.0
Semi-sweet red wine/100 ml – 96 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 5.5
Sweet red wine/100 ml – 106 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 8.2
Dry red wine/100 ml – 75 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 3.0
Vodka 40%/100 ml – 235 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 0.1
Whiskey 40%/100 ml – 220 – 0.0 – 0.0 – 0.0
How do alcohol and alcohol calories affect human health?
Alcohol has an adverse effect on health, which is why it is prohibited for pregnant and lactating women. Even moderate alcohol consumption reduces the liver’s ability to metabolize glucose and remove toxic metabolic products. Heavy drinking leads to damage to the liver and brain, blood vessels, has a negative effect on blood clotting processes, leads to varicose veins, hemorrhoids, blood clots, prostate diseases and infertility. It increases energy intake through its high caloric content and helps to accumulate extra pounds.
Alcohol also accelerates the development of age-related diseases and conditions such as heart rhythm disorders or cataracts, as well as wrinkling of the skin. It promotes mental illnesses such as phobias, depression, emotional and intellectual disorders. It leads to disorders in the functioning of nerve cells and the brain, impairs memory, makes it difficult to remember and store new memories, disrupts balance, weakens reflexes, makes it difficult to concentrate and make decisions. It dulls the senses: sight, hearing, smell, taste and feel, and can even lead to hallucinations. Last but not least, it seriously affects sleep health by reducing its positive effects.
Drinking wine and beer in moderation, which is typical of French cuisine, especially in social situations, can be enjoyable and help reduce stress. Alcohol, consumed in accordance with the principles of table service, in small quantities (500 ml of beer or 200 ml of wine for men and 330 ml and 150 ml for women, respectively), increases blood pressure. When the amounts exceed the limits recommended above, alcohol acts as a vasodilator – it lowers blood pressure and the full spectrum of negative effects occurs. Alcohol leads to addiction.
However, the effect becomes negative (and quite a bit) when we start to overdo it with alcohol intake. High blood pressure, impaired liver function, increased risk of developing heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes are just some of the pathological conditions associated with excessive alcohol consumption. This is well known and proven by numerous scientific studies.
But there’s something else that’s less well-known about alcoholic beverages. Are you ready? They can be more caloric even than food. Yes, that’s right – alcoholic beverages can significantly increase your daily calorie intake, contributing to weight gain and obesity.
What is the permissible daily intake of alcohol?
The World Health Organization recommends that the daily intake of alcohol should not exceed 1-2 alcoholic units for women and 2-3 alcoholic units for men. It is also advisable to give yourself at least 2 days off during the week ie. minimum 2 alcohol-free days per week.
1 alcohol unit equals 10 ml. or 8 g of ethanol. In 50 milliliters of vodka, which contains 40% pure alcohol, there are 20 milliliters of ethanol, which means that small vodka is equal to 2 alcohol units. A large glass of wine or a pint of beer of 0.5 liters equals about 3 alcohol units.
Photo by Magda Ehlers: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-poring-cocktail-on-clear-drinking-glass-1189257/
Serbian miners discovered a valuable archaeological find on the banks of the Danube
A valuable archaeological find on the banks of the Danube, not far from Bulgaria – Serbian miners discovered an ancient Roman ship with a 13-meter hull in a mine.
An excavator in the Dramno mine near the town of Kostolats unearthed a fully preserved ancient ship. According to experts, it dates back to Roman times.
“I have to admit that this was a surprise because it shows that the Romans were already stationed here in the early years of our era. This suggests that they were apparently already present at the time of the Caesars or shortly before,” says Miomir Korac, who is the chief archaeologist of Viminacium Park.
Not far from the find is the archaeological park Viminacium – remains of an ancient Roman city, which probably had a population of 45,000 people, as well as a hippodrome, a palace, an amphitheater, a forum. According to historians, the discovered vessel was probably part of the city’s river flotilla.
“Every discovery we make here – and we make discoveries every day – teaches us something about life in the past,” says Miomir Korac.
Discoveries in the archaeological park so far include gold tiles, sculptures, mosaics, weapons and the remains of three mammoths.
Photo: http://viminacium.org.rs/
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