Vulnerable Areas Research Articles

A IMPORTÂNCIA DO USG NO ÂMBITO DA SAÚDE PRISIONAL

The expressions “prisoner” and “person arrested” designate a person deprived of his personal liberty as a result of conviction for the commission of an offence. It is, therefore, the deprivation of liberty, the highest restriction of movement and inclusion. But difficulties exist and detainees and prisoners continue to constitute an important challenge for the general increase of respect for the human person. Data from the Secretariat of Human Rights. One of the most used imaging tests in medicine is ultrasonography. The procedure consists of using a machine to visualize internal organs, whose capture is made by sound waves. It is a non-invasive test that can be performed even by children and pregnant women, due to their safety. Given the above, this article aims to describe the importance of USG in the prison environment. Thus generating an economy for the state in transport, escort, safer for society, avoiding escape attempts. This is an integrative literature review, which is a method that makes it possible to synthesize previously published knowledge and draw conclusions about one of the topics of interest. The incarcerated, recurrently, come from more vulnerable areas and belong to various genders of society: young, poor, mentally ill, alcoholics and illicit drug addicts, therefore, belong to a risk group with greater probability of acquiring diseases. In prisons, such problems are high in number, due to the poor conditions of the facilities, violence and confinement. Some factors faced by detainees in prisons are overcrowding, stress, illicit activities, among others. It can be observed the importance in the prison scope of the implementation of the USG, as a routine in the unit, since it generates savings for the state, both in relation to transport, escort, thus, safer for society, avoiding escape attempts.

Inequity of Exposure to Unconventional Natural Gas Development in Northeastern British Columbia, Canada─An Environmental Justice Analysis.

In the past two decades, northeastern British Columbia, Canada, has experienced rapid growth in unconventional natural gas production and is home to Indigenous and rural communities. Living near oil and gas production can lead to deteriorated air quality that negatively impacts human health. This study explores whether three oil- and gas-related exposure metrics: modeled concentrations of 12 gases and particles; oil and gas facility-reported emissions; and active wells are disproportionately distributed in areas with higher concentrations of Indigenous people and community socioeconomic vulnerability. We calculated exposure metrics from 2018 to 2020 in geographic dissemination areas (DAs). We used a rural deprivation index that included income, education, employment, and access to amenities to identify areas of high socioeconomic vulnerability. We estimated that DAs with greater than 90% Indigenous population experience 1.2-1.8 times higher median air pollution concentrations than DAs with less than 10% Indigenous population. We estimated that DAs with high community vulnerability experience higher modeled air pollution and higher odds of exposure to facility emissions, with the most vulnerable areas experiencing 11-96 times higher median air pollution concentrations. Overall, these results suggest the presence of environmental injustice in an area that is expected to continue producing a large portion of Canadian natural gas.

Research Progress in the Intelligent Identification of Ecologically Vulnerable Areas and its Prospects in the Mongolian Plateau

Research Progress in the Intelligent Identification of Ecologically Vulnerable Areas and its Prospects in the Mongolian Plateau

Restoration of Ecological Connectivity in Zhaotong City Under the Interference of Human Activities

Plateau ecological vulnerability areas are experiencing substantial ecological challenges that threaten the integrity of ecological networks (ENs) due to irrational human activities, leading to habitat fragmentation and ecological connectivity degradation. The objectives of this study focus on understanding the structure, connectivity, and responses of ENs to construction land, crucial for maintaining ecological sustainability. Employing the circuit theory, the Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) model, and complex network analysis methods, the ENs are constructed and the evolution characteristics are analyzed. The Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model is used to explore the correlation between construction land and ecological pinch points. The number of ecological corridors increased by 42, and the total length was reduced by 432.85 km, for a reduction of 15.25%. The proportion of highest-level ecological pinch points declined from 0.95% to 0.67%, indicating enhanced overall connectivity. Complex network analysis showed declining betweenness centrality in eight ecological sources over two periods, indicating reduced connectivity in partial northern and central regions. Correlation analysis showed the interaction of regional economic development policies and regional ecological restoration measures on the ecological networks. In areas with positive correlations, six ecological conservation areas were designated to maintain existing connectivity. In regions with negative correlations, seven ecological restoration areas were planned to improve ecological connectivity through scientific ecological restoration methods. This research provides a framework for optimizing regional ecological networks and enhancing ecological connectivity in plateau ecological vulnerability areas. It offers significant insights into the optimization of the ecological security pattern and practical guidance for policymakers and planners seeking to maintain ecological sustainability and resilience.

Development of a Block-Scale Spatial Flood Vulnerability Index—Case Study: Morelia, Mexico

The study of urban floods is increasingly crucial due to their growing frequency and impact on densely populated areas, often characterized by inadequate drainage and located in flood-prone zones. The consequences extend beyond physical damage, significantly affecting economies and livelihoods, necessitating substantial economic resources for recovery and infrastructure rebuilding. Urban planning now must integrate flood risk management, emphasizing not only infrastructural resilience but also comprehensive policies that address environmental and social vulnerabilities to better prepare and protect urban environments against future flood risks. This study addresses the critical issue of urban flood vulnerability through a focused analysis of Morelia, a city known for its susceptibility to flooding due to its geographical and hydrological characteristics and accelerated urban growth. Employing a multifaceted approach that integrates hydrological, socio-economic, and land use data within a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) framework, the research develops a Spatial Flood Vulnerability Index (SFVI). This index is meticulously applied at the urban block level, offering a precise mapping of flood risks across the city. By correlating the SFVI results with historical flood data, the study identifies the most vulnerable areas in Morelia, which are primarily impacted due to their proximity to water bodies, economic density, and infrastructural settings. The methodology not only highlights immediate flood risks but also aids in strategic urban planning to enhance resilience against future flooding events. This paper contributes a novel approach to flood risk assessment, providing a replicable model for similarly affected cities worldwide, aiming to balance structural measures with strategic planning tailored to local needs.

Assessing the Flood and Riverbank Erosion Impacts and Coping Strategies in Hatia Union of Ulipur, Kurigram, Bangladesh

The present paper aims to focus on the flood and riverbank erosion impacts and coping strategies in Hatia Union of Ulipur, Kurigram of Bangladesh. Due to the prevailing geographical location and topographical features, Bangladesh is considered as one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Kurigram district, located in the northern part of Bangladesh, is particularly flood and riverbank erosion prone because of its extensive river networks and its location within the Teesta-Brahmaputra River basin. Hatia Union of Ulipur Upazila was chosen as the study area due to its susceptibility to these disasters. In order to identify the flood and riverbank erosion impacts and coping strategies, field level data and information were collected through field survey and interviewing the respondents. Using ArcGIS Pro software, Sentinel-1 (SAR) and LANDSAT images with a resolution of 30 meters, the flood and riverbank erosion maps were produced. Floods and riverbank erosion both have significant impacts on local communication, food, shelter, health, employment, security, and people’s movement. Local people suffer a lot and their lives and livelihoods are affected severely by these disaster events. The affected communities undertake various coping strategies with the support of governmental and non-governmental organizations to overcome the incumbent impacts of flood and riverbank erosion. Policy level development and effective implementation of various projects and programs prioritizing the most vulnerable areas, focusing on socio-economic advancement, and resolving relevant issues can limit the sufferings of local people. J. Asiat. Soc. Bangladesh, Sci. 50(1-2): 69-88, June-December 2024

Ethnic and racial differences in children and young people withrespiratory and neurological post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2: an electronic health record-based cohort study from the RECOVER Initiative.

Children from racial and ethnic minority groups are at greater risk for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, but it is unclear whether they have increased risk for post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Our objectives were to assess whether the risk of respiratory and neurologic PASC differs by race/ethnicity and social drivers of health. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of individuals <21 years seeking care at 24 health systems across the U.S, using electronic health record (EHR) data. Our cohort included those with a positive SARS-CoV-2 molecular, serology or antigen test, or with a COVID-19, multisystem inflammatory disease in children, or PASC diagnosis from February 29, 2020 to August 1, 2022. We identified children/youth with at least 2 codes associated with respiratory and neurologic PASC. We measured associations between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and respiratory and neurologic PASC using odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals estimated from multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for other sociodemographic characteristics, social vulnerability index or area deprivation index, time period of cohort entry, presence and complexity of chronic respiratory (respectively, neurologic) condition and healthcare utilization. Among 771,725 children in the cohort, 203,365 (26.3%) had SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among children with documented infection, 3217 children had respiratory PASC and 2009 children/youth had neurologic PASC. In logistic regression models, children <5 years (Odds Ratio [OR] 1.78, 95% CI 1.62-1.97), and of Hispanic White descent (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.05-1.35) had higher odds of having respiratory PASC. Children/youth living in regions with higher area deprivation indices (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.10-1.420 for 60-79th percentile) and with chronic complex respiratory conditions (OR 3.28, 95% CI 2.91-3.70) also had higher odds of respiratory PASC. In contrast, older (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.40-1.77 for those aged 12-17 years), non-Hispanic White individuals and those with chronic pre-existing neurologic conditions (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.78-2.35) were more likely to have a neurologic PASC diagnosis. Racial and ethnic differences in healthcare utilization for neurologic and respiratory PASC may reflect social drivers of health and inequities in access to care. National Institutes of Health.

Spatial prediction of forest fires in India: a machine learning approach for improved risk assessment and early warning systems.

Forest fires pose a significant ecological and environmental threat globally, and India has seen a marked increase in both the frequency and severity of these events in recent years. This has led to extensive damage to natural resources, including forests and wildlife habitats. Effective management strategies are essential to mitigate these impacts, and this study aims to contribute to that effort through spatial prediction of forest fires in India using machine learning techniques. The research begins by analyzing spatial patterns and trends of forest fires and identifying key factors contributing to their occurrence. It then explores the relationships between forest fires and these factors. Using data from 2001 to 2020, the study develops a probability map of forest fire occurrences in India, leveraging data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on fire points and burned areas and the European Space Agency Climate Change Initiative (ESA-CCI) land use land cover. The analysis incorporates various fire occurrence conditioning factors, including climate variables (precipitation, air temperature, specific humidity, near-surface wind speed, net longwave radiation, and land surface temperature for both daytime and nighttime), biophysical factors (aspect, slope, elevation, soil moisture, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), and other factors such as proximity to railways, roads, and waterways. The maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) was employed to identify these factors and generate the probability map. The results indicate that forest fires are predominantly concentrated in three major regions: Northeast India, Uttarakhand-Himachal, and the Deccan Plateau. The study also highlights the link between forest fires and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 12, 13, and 15). The findings can inform the identification of vulnerable areas, enabling the implementation of preventative measures. This research is crucial as it not only pinpoints regions at risk of forest fires but also elucidates their impacts on the environment and local livelihoods, thereby enhancing risk assessment and early warning systems.

Social vulnerability and genetic service utilization among unaffected BRIDGE trial patients with inherited cancer susceptibility

BackgroundResearch on social determinants of genetic testing uptake is limited, particularly among unaffected patients with inherited cancer susceptibility.MethodsWe conducted a secondary analysis of the Broadening the Reach, Impact, and Delivery of Genetic Services (BRIDGE) trial at University of Utah Health and NYU Langone Health, involving 2,760 unaffected patients meeting genetic testing criteria for inherited cancer susceptibility and who were initially randomized to either an automated chatbot or an enhanced standard of care (SOC) genetic services delivery model. We used encounters from the electronic health record (EHR) to measure the uptake of genetic counseling and testing, including dichotomous measures of (1) whether participants initiated pre-test cancer genetic services, (2) completed pre-test cancer genetic services, (3) had genetic testing ordered, and (4) completed genetic testing. We merged zip codes from the EHR to construct census tract-weighted social measures of the Social Vulnerability Index. Multilevel models estimated associations between social vulnerability and genetic services utilization. We tested whether intervention condition (i.e., chatbot vs. SOC) moderated the association of social vulnerability with genetic service utilization. Covariates included study arm, study site, age, sex, race/ethnicity, language preference, rural residence, having a recorded primary care provider, and number of algorithm criteria met.ResultsPatients living in areas of medium socioeconomic status (SES) vulnerability had lower odds of initiating pre-test genetic services (adjusted OR [aOR] = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.67, 0.98) compared to patients living in low SES vulnerability areas. Patients in medium household vulnerability areas had a lower likelihood of completing pre-test genetic services (aOR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.66–0.97) and having genetic testing ordered (aOR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.63–0.99) relative to patients in low household vulnerability areas. We did not find that social vulnerability associations varied by intervention condition.ConclusionsThese results underscore the importance of investigating social and structural mechanisms as potential pathways to increasing genetic testing uptake among patients with increased inherited risk of cancer. Census information is publicly available but seldom used to assess social determinants of genetic testing uptake among unaffected populations. Existing and future cohort studies can incorporate census data to derive analytic insights for clinical scientists.Trial registrationBRIDGE was registered as NCT03985852 on June 6, 2019 at clinicaltrials.gov.

Tracking over 30 years of coral reef infrastructure degradation in Barbados

Coral reefs face escalating threats from global and local stressors, and these challenges are exacerbated in the Caribbean. This study focuses on coral reef structure in Barbados, where a previous study documented reef degradation in the 1990s. As 30 years have passed, we examined the rate of change of reef structure and quantified associated substrate presence along the western reefs of Barbados. Using satellite and geotagged imagery, we analyzed 19 reef structures over the interval 2013 to 2023 along the west coast of Barbados, comparing them to the previous study’s findings in 1950 and 1991. We ground-truthed five sites previously categorized as highly degraded reefs to confirm their structural integrity and substrate-type. Results confirmed ongoing reef structural loss, averaging ~ 137.68 m1 annually across all sites. We identified four primary substrate types: coral, algae-covered substrate, rubble, and sand, with algae-covered substrate predominating and projected to persist. Our results underscore the urgency of monitoring reef health and highlight the potential limitations of satellite assessment. This research enhances understanding of reef dynamics and offers a framework for identifying vulnerable areas, which are crucial for effective conservation efforts.

OS IMPACTOS PSICOLÓGICOS DA VIOLÊNCIA: O EFEITO DURADOURO DO ABUSO E TRAUMA NA SAÚDE MENTAL DAS VÍTIMAS

The analysis of the psychological impacts of violence, as presented in the selected studies, reveals the complexity and longevity of the effects of abuse and trauma on the mental health of victims. Psychological disorders such as PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression were commonly associated with various forms of violence, including physical, sexual, and psychological abuse, and proved to be long-lasting, affecting victims' quality of life for years after the traumatic event. Furthermore, the effects of trauma are not limited to immediate impacts but manifest over time, being particularly devastating for children and adolescents, who often lack the necessary skills to cope with emotional distress. Psychological resilience plays a fundamental role in the recovery process, but it does not occur automatically, depending on several factors such as social support and access to therapeutic resources. Psychological and sexual violence, often underestimated, also demonstrated a profound impact on victims' mental health, altering their self-perception and hindering the development of healthy relationships. The effectiveness of psychotherapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, has been proven, but it is essential that these approaches are tailored to the cultural and contextual specificities of the victims to ensure their efficacy. Finally, the studies indicate that violence prevention and public awareness are crucial tools to mitigate the psychological effects of abuse. However, despite advances in the treatment and understanding of the psychological consequences of violence, significant gaps remain in the implementation of public policies and access to mental health services, especially in vulnerable areas and among marginalized populations. It is imperative to establish effective integration between mental health and public policies, focusing on the training of qualified professionals and the creation of support networks that provide a safe and welcoming environment for victims, ensuring they receive the necessary support for their recovery.

P-1409. Differential Impact of a Penicillin Allergy Assessment Tool on Orthopedic Surgical Patients from Areas of High Social Vulnerability

Abstract Background Penicillin allergy labels (PAL) have been associated with increased risk of surgical site infections. Many penicillin allergy assessment tools are being trialed to improve perioperative β-lactam utilization. We report on the sociodemographic characteristics associated with receipt of β-lactam antibiotics (BLA) in orthopedic surgical patients with a PAL after implementation of a penicillin allergy assessment tool built into the electronic health record (EHR).Table 1:Clinical and Sociodemographic Characteristics of Penicillin Allergy Label Patients by Preoperative β-Lactam Antibiotic (BLA) Administration Following Implementation of Penicillin Allergy Assessment Tool in the Electronic Health Record Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent hip (HPRO) and knee arthroplasty (KPRO) procedures in a large health system between August 2022 and December 2023. Patients with a PAL were identified and demographic, clinical and antibiotic administration data were obtained from the EHR. Clinical data was merged with Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) census-track data comprising 4 subthemes (socioeconomic status, household characteristics, racial/ethnic minority status and housing type/transportation). Higher SVI indicates higher vulnerability. Patients with a PAL who did and did not receive a BLA post protocol implementation were compared.Figure 1:Impact of a Penicillin Allergy Assessment Tool on Beta Lactam Utilization in Patients who Live in High vs Low Social Vulnerability Index Census Tracks*Statistically significant p&amp;lt;0.05 Results 1851 patients with a PAL who had undergone a HPRO and/or KPRO were identified. After implementation of the penicillin allergy assessment tool, 443 (24%) did not receive a BLA preoperatively. PAL Patients that did not receive a BLA after implementation of the tool were more likely to be female and less likely to have an admit status at the time of surgery. Other clinical characteristics including surgical site infection rates were similar between the groups. (Table 1) PAL patients who did not receive BLA were more likely to live in areas with higher socioeconomic status SVI (26% vs 20%), higher household characteristics SVI (27% &amp;gt; vs 22%), and higher housing type SVI (20% vs 15%) than those who did receive BLA. (Figure 1) Conclusion Following implementation of an electronic penicillin assessment tool, most patients with a PAL were able to receive BLA safely. The subset of PAL patients who still did not receive BLA more frequently lived in areas with increased social vulnerability. Additional efforts may be needed to ensure the full benefit of tools is achieved in operative patients from areas with high SVI. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

P-1425. Paxlovid Utilization and Social Vulnerability: Trends in Connecticut from 2022-2023

Abstract Background The COVID-19 burden disproportionately affects communities with lower socioeconomic status and high social vulnerability, as well as minority racial groups. Disparities have also been described in nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) prescription rates across socioeconomic strata. Differences in nirmatrelvir-ritonavir dispensing rates between SVI quartile groups from March 2022 – February 2023 Methods We performed an ecological analysis of associations between CDC social vulnerability index (SVI) and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir dispensing rates in Connecticut census tracts. SVI was categorized in four quartiles (low, low-medium, medium-high, and high). Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir dispensing locations were geocoded and dispensing rates per 1,000 population were calculated as the sum of courses dispensed per census tract during March 2022–February 2023. Independent-T tests were used to compare SVI in census tracts with and without medication dispensing sites. ANOVA with Tukey’s test was used to identify differences in dispensing rates by SVI quartile with paired t-test to identify significant differences before and after availability of the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine (March–August 2022 vs. September 2022–February 2023). Demographic and COVID-19 characteristics of census tracts with and without a nirmatrelvir/ritonavir dispensing site Results Mean SVI was higher in 367 census tracts with a dispensing site (mean 0.56) compared to 506 census tracts without a dispensing site (mean 0.45) (p &amp;lt; 0.01). Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir dispensing rates were lower in census tracts with high SVI (55.9 courses per 1000 people) compared to census tracts with low-medium SVI (93.1; difference -37.2 95% confidence interval (CI) [-68.5, -5.9]) and census tracts with medium-high SVI (96.6; difference -40.7, 95% CI [-69.9, -11.5]). Dispensing rates were higher after availability of the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine compared to before (p &amp;lt; 0.05), except in census tracts with high SVI where there was no statistically significant difference. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir dispensing rates per 1,000 population by census tract SVI quartile before and after availability of the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine Conclusion Census tracts with high social vulnerability were less likely to have a dispensing site and had lower nirmatrelvir/ritonavir dispensing rates per 1,000 population. Observed differences in dispensing might signify inequities in healthcare access or medication prescribing. Findings highlight the importance of understanding and addressing barriers to accessing therapeutics in high vulnerability areas during public health emergencies. Disclosures Meghan Maloney, MPH, Pfizer Global R&amp;D: Former employee, separated in 2009. I do have a retirement entitlement which I do not actively manage/no stock options. PGRD offers periodic buy outs

P-1294. Examining the Utility of Education Alongside Low-Barrier Community Vaccination Clinics in Increasing Influenza Immunization Uptake Within Vulnerable Black Communities

Abstract Background Amidst the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, vaccination rates for other preventable diseases, including influenza, have drastically declined across the US non-Hispanic Black population. Systemic injustice and decades of medical mistreatment have been cited as critical factors. Addressing gaps in health literacy and accessibility has been shown to promote trust and improve vaccine uptake. In this study, we aimed to utilize a multifaceted approach to investigate barriers to influenza vaccination and to promote equitable influenza immunization uptake across San Bernardino County, CA (SBC) Black communities. Methods The intervention commenced from August to December 2023 and included a 45-minute vaccine education session followed by a community vaccination clinic. The intervention occurred one weekend per month at a pre-identified church location within SBC. Participants 18 years and older were invited to take two optional surveys before and after the education session to assess the impact of knowledge on health behaviors. Demographic data, including social vulnerability, were collected for all survey participants and those immunized in the clinic. Results 127 individuals completed the pre-survey, and 109 individuals completed the post-survey. Survey data revealed that 86% of the participants identified as Black, 75% were age 55 or older, and 98% resided in a highly vulnerable area. We identified significant positive knowledge changes when comparing baseline vaccine literacy to the knowledge gained following the presentation, particularly in areas surrounding vaccine recommendations for adults 65 years or older. Notably, 47.2% of the participants stated they were “extremely likely” to be vaccinated against influenza before receiving education. Following education, 75.4% of participants noted they were “extremely likely” to be vaccinated and 78.5% were “extremely likely” to recommend the vaccine. 96 vaccine doses (40 influenza and 56 COVID-19) were given, and 33% were co-administered. Conclusion Our results indicate that providing education alongside vaccination can impact vaccine uptake in Black communities. Further research is needed to determine best practices for addressing limitations in vaccine uptake within minoritized populations. Disclosures Jacinda Abdul-Mutakabbir, PharmD,MPH, CSL Sequiris: Advisor/Consultant|CSL Sequiris: Honoraria|GSK: Advisor/Consultant|GSK: Honoraria|Novavax: Advisor/Consultant|Novavax: Honoraria|Shionogi: Advisor/Consultant|Shionogi: Honoraria

Interplay Among Recent Trends in Climate Extremes, Vegetation Phenology, and Crop Production in the Southern Mediterranean Region

ABSTRACTThe southern Mediterranean region is among the most vulnerable areas to climate change globally. However, in this region, there is a need to further understand the complex interactions between climate, vegetation, and crops to fully assess the combined impacts of extreme climate events on the agricultural sector. Using daily Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data, we evaluated trends across 15 vegetation phenology indicators between 1982 and 2019 and analysed their links to land‐use land‐cover changes. We found significant increases in the maximum value of NDVI (MaxV), length of growing seasons (LengthGS), and duration from crop emergence to anthesis (BMaxT), particularly within croplands. These changes positively correlated with regional crop production, especially in coastal and interior plains where croplands and forests are expanding. Conversely, southern areas bordering the Sahara showed declining MaxV and an expansion of sparsely vegetated areas. We then conducted a comprehensive seasonal trend analysis of climatic stresses and discussed how they align with recent trends in key phenological indicators. Coastal and interior plains experienced wetter conditions throughout the year, ensuring sufficient water during the growing season. Meanwhile, areas bordering the Sahara had wetter autumns and winters but drier springs and summers. Additionally, the region experienced warmer conditions from spring to autumn, with fewer cold wave events. Analysing the frequency and duration of compound extreme events, we observed a trend toward more light to moderate dry/hot days in spring and autumn and light to extreme wet/hot days from summer to autumn. These conditions are significantly correlated with increased MaxV, improved crop productivity, and extended LengthGS and BMaxT. These findings may serve as early indicators of how future climate changes could impact crop production, highlighting regional risks and opportunities to guide informed decision‐making and development of adaptive strategies in the southern Mediterranean region.

Pemetaan Daerah Potensi Rawan Longsor Kota Padang Panjang Berbasis Data Analisis Sistem Informasi Geografi (SIG)

This study aims to determine the level of potential landslide vulnerability and the suitability of residential land in spatial patterns for landslide vulnerability in Padang Panjang City. This study uses a quantitative descriptive method. The data analysis techniques used are scoring and overlay. The results of the study show, 1) Landslide potential areas in Padang Panjang City are dominated by high vulnerability with an area of 954.39 ha, then landslide vulnerability with a medium class of 671.16 ha, low landslide vulnerability class of 402.37 ha, and very high landslide vulnerability areas of 68.85 ha. Then seen from the residential land that is at a low vulnerability level of 390.55 ha, residential land that is at a medium vulnerability level of 52.97 ha, and residential land that is at a high vulnerability level of 0.99 ha. 2) Residential land in the spatial pattern at a low level of vulnerability is 295.47 ha, residential land in the spatial pattern at a medium level of vulnerability is 190.66 ha, residential land in the spatial pattern at a high level of vulnerability is 278.37 ha, and residential land in the spatial pattern at a very high level of vulnerability is 14.24 ha. Based on these data, it can be concluded that most of Padang Panjang City is dominated by areas with high and medium landslide potential.

Developing the Recovery Gap Index: A Comprehensive Tool for Assessing National Disaster Recovery Capacities

The increasing frequency and severity of extreme natural events, along with their escalating impacts, highlight the urgent need for robust tools to assess and strengthen national capacities for disaster preparedness and recovery. In this context, this paper introduces one of these tools, called the Recovery Gap Index (RGI), a comprehensive composite index designed to quantify and evaluate the post-extreme natural event response and recovery capabilities at the country level. The tool addresses the need for a systematic approach to quantify resilience and evaluate the impacts of consecutive events on vulnerable areas. The RGI synthesizes data from three well-established indices: the World Risk Index, INFORM, and Global Infrastructure Risk Model and Index (GIRI), covering critical dimensions related to sociodemographic factors, infrastructure, governance, technology, and economic resilience. By extracting key parameters from these diverse indices and aggregating them, the RGI provides a detailed assessment of each nation’s ability to manage the aftermath of extreme natural events. The index findings reveal significant regional disparities in recovery capacities, with European countries exhibiting stronger resilience, whereas many African and Asian nations face substantial challenges. Furthermore, this study proposes several potential future enhancements, such as the incorporation of early warning systems and insurance coverage metrics, aimed at improving its accuracy and practical application. The RGI aims to be a valuable tool for policymakers, disaster management professionals, and stakeholders, enabling them to make informed decisions and implement targeted interventions to further enhance global disaster resilience.

Unveiling the seismic sensitivity of the Himalayan tunnels: a comprehensive assessment through analytical and numerical exploration of P-wave dynamics

This study investigated the seismic sensitivity of tunnels in the Jammu Region (JR) of the northwestern Himalayas, a region characterized by significant seismic activity and complex geological conditions. The research combined both analytical and numerical approaches to assess the influence of site conditions, tunnel lining, and reinforcement properties on tunnel resilience. A key objective is to develop a more reliable seismic assessment method by adopting a P-wave-based approach, which is particularly suitable for mountainous tunnels prone to landslides. The study identified three seismic hazard zones, with peak ground accelerations (PGA) ranging from less than 0.3 g to greater than 0.5 g, providing vulnerability aspects. The major outcomes of this study include guidelines for the design and retrofitting of sustainable and resilient underground structures in the Himalayas, with broader implications for global projects in seismically active and geologically complex regions. The methodologies and insights can be applied to infrastructure projects worldwide, enhancing the safety of communities living in vulnerable areas. This work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting resilient infrastructure and sustainable development, contributing to both structural resilience and the geological safety of the Himalayan region.

The Study of Septic Tank Proximity on Coliform, E. Coli, and Organic Contamination in Shallow Groundwater: a Case Study of DKI Jakarta

Groundwater in DKI Jakarta is subject to microbiological contamination. Approximately 32% of the population in DKI Jakarta relies on groundwater as an alternative source of clean water, highlighting the urgent need to address and prevent contamination. This study aims to investigate the effect of the separation distance between septic tanks and wells on the levels of Total coliform (TC), Escherichia coli (EC), and organic parameter contamination in shallow groundwater. Groundwater quality data, including TC, EC, and organic parameters from 265 monitoring points in DKI Jakarta, was obtained from the Jakarta Environment Agency in 2022. A quantitative descriptive approach, incorporating spatial mapping of bacterial and organic contamination using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, was employed. MANOVA analysis using SPSS 26 was conducted to determine the relationship between septic tank distances and shallow water contamination levels. Results indicate that the separation distance between septic tanks and wells significantly influences TC and EC contamination in Jakarta Pusat, Jakarta Timur, and Jakarta Barat. Organic contamination, however, is significantly affected only in Jakarta Pusat and Jakarta Timur. In contrast, Jakarta Utara was identified as the most contaminated region, with 84% of groundwater samples showing TC contamination, 55% exhibiting Escherichia coli (EC) contamination, and 69% affected by organic pollution. However, these contaminations were not proven to be influenced by the proximity of septic tanks. This is likely due to the area's coastal location, where hydrogeological conditions and diverse pollution sources play a more significant role in groundwater contamination. Improvements in sanitation infrastructure could significantly enhance groundwater quality, particularly in highly vulnerable areas such as Jakarta Utara.

Modeling the advective supply of Calanus finmarchicus to Stellwagen Bank as an indicator of sand lance foraging habitat, and the climate vulnerability of a National Marine Sanctuary

The northern sand lance (Ammodytes dubius), a key species in the food web supporting the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS), feeds primarily on the lipid-rich copepod Calanus finmarchicus. Climate change poses a significant threat to this dynamic, as C. finmarchicus populations are at the southern edge of their subarctic distribution and are vulnerable to warming waters and changing oceanographic conditions. Declines in the advective supply of C. finmarchicus to Stellwagen Bank could adversely affect sand lance populations and, consequently, the ecological and economic resources that depend on them. To quantify the connectivity between SBNMS and potential sources of C. finmarchicus, we used the Finite-Volume Community Ocean Model (FVCOM) coupled with Lagrangian particle tracking over the years 1978 to 2016. Numerical experiments revealed that Stellwagen Bank is highly connected to upstream areas in the Maine Coastal Current (MCC), where existing time series monitoring stations observe C. finmarchicus populations. The connectivity exhibited strong seasonal patterns, with peak connectivity occurring during spring and early summer, aligning with the sand lance feeding period on C. finmarchicus. We found significant interannual variability, influenced by changes in the strength of the MCC and circulation patterns in the western Gulf of Maine. Years with stronger MCC flow showed higher connectivity and a greater potential supply of C. finmarchicus particles to Stellwagen Bank. Conversely, periods of reduced flow corresponded with decreased connectivity, potentially limiting the availability of C. finmarchicus to sand lance populations. Meanwhile, observations from drifters and buoys since 2001 have documented decreases in MCC current speed which has been linked to a climate driven strengthening of southwesterly winds. These findings underscore the importance of pelagic habitat connectivity in assessing the climate vulnerability of marine protected areas (MPAs) like SBNMS. Furthermore, monitoring C. finmarchicus populations at upstream time series stations can provide information on downstream foraging habitat in MPAs, and potentially in other vulnerable areas of ecological and socioeconomic interest. By incorporating these indicators of connectivity and upstream C. finmarchicus population abundance into decision support tools, Sanctuary managers and stakeholders can make informed decisions to mitigate potential climate impacts.