bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using mid-infrared spectroscopy as a tool to monitor responses of acidic soil properties to liming: case study from a dryland agricultural soil trial site in South Australia
Authors: Hume Ruby , Marschner Petra , Mason Sean , Schilling Rhiannon K. , Mosley Luke M.
Published: February 2024

Soil acidification is an issue for agriculture that requires effective management, typically in the form of lime (calcium carbonate, CaCO3), application. Mid infrared (MIR) spectroscopy methods offer an alternative to conventional laboratory methods, that may enable cost-effective and improved measurement of soil acidity and responses to liming, including detection of small–scale heterogeneity through the profile. Properties of an acidic soil following lime application were measured using both MIR spectroscopy with Partial Least Squares Regression (MIR-PLSR) and laboratory measurements to (a) compare the ability of each method to detect lime treatment effects on acidic soil, and (b) assess effects of the different treatments on selected soil properties. Soil properties including soil pH (in H2O and CaCl2), Aluminium (Al, exchangeable and extractable), cation exchange capacity (CEC) and organic carbon (OC) were measured at a single field trial receiving lime treatments differing in rate, source and incorporation. Model performance of MIR-PLSR prediction of the soil properties ranged from R2 = 0.582, RMSE = 2.023, RPIQ = 2.921 for Al (extractable) to R2 = 0.881, RMSE = 0.192, RPIQ = 5.729 for OC. MIR-PLSR predictions for pH (in H2O and CaCl2) were R2 = 0.739, RMSE = 0.287, RPIQ = 2.230 and R2 = 0.788, RMSE = 0.311, RPIQ = 1.897 respectively, and could detect a similar treatment effect compared to laboratory measurements. Treatment effects were not detected for MIR-PLSR-predicted values of CEC and both exchangeable and extractable Al. Findings support MIR-PLSR as a method of measuring soil pH to monitor effects of liming treatments on acidic soil to help inform precision agricultural management strategies, but suggests that some nuance and important information about treatment effects of lime on CEC and Al may be lost. Improvements to prediction model performance should be made to realise the full potential of this approach.
Ukraine, language policies and liberalism: a mixed second act
Authors: Place Joseph , Everett Judas
Published: February 2024

This article analyses Ukraine’s language policies from 2002 to 2022 within a framework of liberalism, while avoiding making normative judgements or recommendations, updating the discussion raised in Kymlicka and Opalski’s Can Liberal Pluralism be Exported? The analysis takes into consideration Ukraine’s present and historic position, including the challenge that postcolonial nation building can pose for achieving liberalism and linguistic justice. The paper focuses on three main areas of language policy: education, businesses and media, and assesses if they can be described as liberal orthodox, pluralist or illiberal. The article begins by defining liberalism and illiberalism, discussing the context of Ukraine’s linguistic diversity and postcolonial context, before outlining the language situation until EuroMaidan. Then, the main issue of language policy in the areas of education, business and media is analysed, before considering whether Ukrainian language laws might be considered liberal or illiberal. Finally, potential future trajectories are outlined.
Heat-Treated Inconel 625 by Laser Powder Bed Fusion: Microstructure, Tensile Properties, and Residual Stress Evolution
Authors: Marchese Giulio , Piscopo Gabriele , Lerda Serena , Salmi Alessandro , Atzeni Eleonora , Biamino Sara
Published: February 2024

This work investigates the impact of different heat treatments on the evolution of the microstructure, tensile properties, and residual stresses of Inconel 625 (IN625) processed by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Applying a heat treatment is an essential step to mitigate the high residual stresses in the components produced by LPBF and, simultaneously, to design the mechanical properties of the components. A high magnitude of residual stress can involve deformation and reduce the fatigue resistance of the components. In the current work, heat treatments performed at 600, 800, and 870 °C provided minimal modification on the dimensions of the grains but involved the formation of new phases, which increased the tensile strength. The results showed mitigation of the residual stresses at 800 and 870 °C correlated with the formation of Cr-rich M23C6 carbides and δ phases, respectively. Finally, the solution annealing at 1150 °C triggered recrystallization with the formation of sub-micrometric carbides, reducing the residual stresses. The solution annealing treatment involved an improvement of the ductility and a reduction in tensile strength. This work provides a guide to understanding the microstructure, residual stress, and mechanical properties evolution of the IN625 alloy under heat treatments.
Empowering Pacific Patients on the Weight Loss Surgery Pathway: A Co-designed Evaluation Study
Authors: Taylor Tamasin Ariana , Beban Grant , Yi Elaine , Veukiso Michael , Sang-Yum Genevieve , Dewes Ofa , Wrapson Wendy , Taufa Nalei , Campbell Andrew R. T. , Siegert Richard J. , Shepherd Peter
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Despite having the highest medical needs by population for weight loss treatment, Pacific patients in Aotearoa New Zealand face substantial levels of attrition in publicly funded weight loss surgery programs. In collaboration with the Auckland City Hospital bariatric surgery team, a Pacific-led preoperative weight loss surgery program was co-designed, delivered, and evaluated between 2020 and 2023.

Materials and Methods

This was a single-arm, prospective co-designed evaluation study that took place at Auckland City Hospital in Aotearoa New Zealand. Participants were Pacific patients (n = 14) referred to the weight loss surgery program. Survey and video diaries were analyzed to determine if the program had the potential to increase Pacific patient retention through the preoperative stage of weight loss surgery, increase surgery completion rates, and improve the quality of treatment experiences.

Results

Nine out of 14 participants attended all preoperative sessions. Six participants subsequently underwent weight loss surgery. Program components that had positive impacts on patient success and satisfaction were accessibility, information quality, having Pacific role models, cultural safety, and the group support system. The patients found the program to be culturally anchored and there was support for the implementation of the program going forward.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated how a culturally anchored intervention can increase patient retention for those patients who may not respond to mainstream treatment. Adjusting existing preoperative weight loss surgery programs to integrate Pacific-led models of healthcare has the potential to increase Pacific patient resiliency to follow through with surgery.

Graphical Abstract
Effects of Boric acid as Maternal Feed Additives on the Development and Sex Ratio of Mouse pups
Authors: Aykal M. B. , Gecin M. N. , Sogut I. , Kar F. , Taskin A. C.
Published: February 2024

Boron is primarily used in industrial applications, with recent interest revolving around its effects on metabolism. In this study, we administered boric acid (BA), which has positive effects on reproduction, in conjunction with feed supplementation to serve as a model for experimental animal development and breeding. The pregnancy performance, offspring development, and biochemical effects of mice given feed supplemented with BA at concentrations of 0 (control group), 250, and 500 ppm (BA groups) were investigated. A total of 18 female Balb-C mice were utilized for pregnancy. The mice were given the BA-supplemented feed during a period encompassing three weeks of pregnancy and three weeks of lactation. The numbers and weights of offspring born in cages on days 19–21 were determined. Blood and tissue samples were collected from the offspring during the third week postnatal, and the malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant and oxidant status (TAS, TOS, and OSI) levels were determined. A significant increase in female offspring was observed in the groups born to mice fed with BA compared to the control group. Positive development in organ weights was observed in the 250-ppm BA group. The 250-ppm group exhibited a significant increase in TAS compared to the control group, while TOS and MDA levels showed a decrease. Also, the levels of BA groups were found to decrease in both the OSI index serum and organ samples compared to the control group. Thus, the use of 250-ppm BA demonstrated positive effects on female offspring production, organ development, and antioxidant levels.
Towards stronger tobacco control policies to curb the smoking epidemic in Spain
Authors: Pérez-Ríos Mónica , Ahluwalia Jasjit , Guerra-Tort Carla , García Guadalupe , Rey-Brandariz Julia , Mourino-Castro Nerea , Teijeiro Ana , Casal-Fernández Raquel , Galán Iñaki , Varela-Lema Leonor , Ruano-Ravina Alberto
Published: February 2024

Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke pose a significant risk to the health of populations. Although this evidence is not new, the commitment of countries to implement laws aimed at controlling consumption and eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke is uneven. Thus, in North America or in Europe, locations like California or Ireland, are pioneers in establishing policies aimed at protecting the population against smoking and secondhand smoke. Identifying measures that have worked would help control this important Public Health problem in other countries that are further behind in tobacco control policies. In Spain, there has been almost 15 years of little political action in legislation oriented to control the tobacco epidemic. If we want to achieve the tobacco endgame, new legislative measures must be implemented. In this paper, we have elucidated tobacco control policies that could be implemented and show how different countries have done so.
Multijoints and Factorisation
Authors: Tang Michael Chi Yung
Published: February 2024

We solve the dual multijoint problem and prove the existence of so-called factorisations for arbitrary fields and multijoints of $$k_j$$

k
j

-planes. More generally, we deduce a discrete analogue of a theorem due in essence to Bourgain and Guth. Our result is a universal statement which describes a property of the discrete wedge product without any explicit reference to multijoints and is stated as follows: Suppose that $$k_1 + \ldots + k_d = n$$

k
1

+
…
+

k
d

=
n

. There is a constant $$C=C(n)$$

C
=
C
(
n
)

so that for any field $$\mathbb {F}$$
F
and for any finitely supported function $$S : \mathbb {F}^n \rightarrow \mathbb {R}_{\ge 0}$$

S
:

F

n

→

R

≥
0

, there are factorising functions $$s_{k_j} : \mathbb {F}^n\times {{\,\mathrm{{Gr}}\,}}(k_j, \mathbb {F}^n)\rightarrow \mathbb {R}_{\ge 0}$$

s

k
j

:

F

n

×

Gr

(

k
j

,

F

n

)

→

R

≥
0

such that $$\begin{aligned} \left( V_1 \wedge \cdots \wedge V_d\right) S\left( p\right) ^d \le \prod _{j=1}^d s_{k_j}\left( p, V_j\right) , \end{aligned}$$

V
1

∧
⋯
∧

V
d

S

p

d

≤

∏

j
=
1

d

s

k
j

p
,

V
j

,

for every $$p\in \mathbb {F}^n$$

p
∈

F

n

and every tuple of planes $$V_j\in {{\,\mathrm{{Gr}}\,}}(k_j, \mathbb {F}^n)$$

V
j

∈

Gr

(

k
j

,

F

n

)

, and $$\begin{aligned} \sum _{p\in \pi _j} s(p, e(\pi _j)) =C \left| \left| S\right| \right| _d, \end{aligned}$$

∑

p
∈

π
j

s

(
p
,
e

(

π
j

)

)

=
C

S

d

,

for every $$k_j$$

k
j

-plane $$\pi _j\subset \mathbb {F}^n$$

π
j

⊂

F

n

, where $$e(\pi _j)\in {{\,\mathrm{{Gr}}\,}}(k_j,\mathbb {F}^n)$$

e

(

π
j

)

∈

Gr

(

k
j

,

F

n

)

, is the translate of $$\pi _j$$

π
j

that contains the origin and $$\wedge $$
∧
denotes the discrete wedge product.
Deep Multi-task Learning for Animal Chest Circumference Estimation from Monocular Images
Authors: Zhang Hongtao , Gu Dongbing
Published: February 2024

The applications of deep learning algorithms with images to various scenarios have attracted significant research attention. However, application scenarios in animal breeding managements are still limited. In this paper we propose a new deep learning framework to estimate the chest circumference of domestic animals from images. This parameter is a key metric for breeding and monitoring the quality of animal in animal husbandry. We design a set of feature extraction methods based on a multi-task learning framework to address the challenging issues in the main estimation task. The multiple tasks in our proposed framework include object segmentation, keypoint estimation, and depth estimation of cow from monocular images. The domain-specific features extracted from these tasks improve upon our main estimation task. In addition, we also attempt to reduce unnecessary computations during the framework design to reduce the cost of subsequent practical implementation of the developed system. Our proposed framework is tested on our own collected dataset to evaluate its performance.
Muscle Oximetry in Sports Science: An Updated Systematic Review
Authors: Perrey Stephane , Quaresima Valentina , Ferrari Marco
Published: February 2024

Background

In the last 5 years since our last systematic review, a significant number of articles have been published on the technical aspects of muscle near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), the interpretation of the signals and the benefits of using the NIRS technique to measure the physiological status of muscles and to determine the workload of working muscles.

Objectives

Considering the consistent number of studies on the application of muscle oximetry in sports science published over the last 5 years, the objectives of this updated systematic review were to highlight the applications of muscle oximetry in the assessment of skeletal muscle oxidative performance in sports activities and to emphasize how this technology has been applied to exercise and training over the last 5 years. In addition, some recent instrumental developments will be briefly summarized.

Methods

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews guidelines were followed in a systematic fashion to search, appraise and synthesize existing literature on this topic. Electronic databases such as Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed and SPORTDiscus were searched from March 2017 up to March 2023. Potential inclusions were screened against eligibility criteria relating to recreationally trained to elite athletes, with or without training programmes, who must have assessed physiological variables monitored by commercial oximeters or NIRS instrumentation.

Results

Of the identified records, 191 studies regrouping 3435 participants, met the eligibility criteria. This systematic review highlighted a number of key findings in 37 domains of sport activities. Overall, NIRS information can be used as a meaningful marker of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity and can become one of the primary monitoring tools in practice in conjunction with, or in comparison with, heart rate or mechanical power indices in diverse exercise contexts and across different types of training and interventions.

Conclusions

Although the feasibility and success of the use of muscle oximetry in sports science is well documented, there is still a need for further instrumental development to overcome current instrumental limitations. Longitudinal studies are urgently needed to strengthen the benefits of using muscle oximetry in sports science.
The implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating disorder features and comorbid psychopathology among adolescents with anorexia nervosa and matched controls: a comparative cohort design study
Authors: Bracké Katrien , Steegers Cathelijne , van der Harst Tess , Pons Rozemarijn , Legerstee Jeroen , Dierckx Bram , de Nijs Pieter , Bax-van Berkel Marieke , van Elburg Annemarie , Hekkelaan Marion , Hokke Joke , de Jong-Zuidema Hetty , Korthals Altes Lucas , Lengton-van der Spil Farida , Luijkx Judith , Schuurmans Femke , Smeets Carien , van Wijk Lia , Woltering Claire , Vernooij Meike , Hillegers Manon , White Tonya , Dieleman Gwen
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To examine implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating disorder (ED) features and psychopathology in female adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN).

Method

In total 79 females with first-onset AN (aged 12–22 years) were included and were followed up across a period of 1 year. We assessed AN participants recruited pre-pandemic (n = 49) to those recruited peri-pandemic (n = 30). Pre- (n = 37) and peri-pandemic (n = 38) age-, and education-matched typically developing (TD) girls (n = 75) were used as a reference cohort. ED features and psychopathology were assessed at baseline. After 1 year of follow-up the association between pandemic timing and clinical course was assessed. Analyses of covariance were used to examine differences in ED features and psychopathology.

Results

Peri-pandemic AN participants experienced less ED symptoms at baseline compared to pre-pandemic AN participants. In particular, they were less dissatisfied with their body shape, and experienced less interpersonal insecurity. In addition, the peri-pandemic AN group met fewer DSM-IV criteria for comorbid disorders, especially anxiety disorders. In contrast, peri-pandemic AN participants had a smaller BMI increase over time. In TD girls, there were no differences at baseline in ED features and psychopathology between the pre- and peri-pandemic group.

Conclusion

Overall, peri-pandemic AN participants were less severely ill, compared to pre-pandemic AN participants, which may be explained by less social pressure and peer contact, and a more protective parenting style during the pandemic. Conversely, peri-pandemic AN participants had a less favorable clinical course, which may be explained by reduced access to health care facilities during the pandemic.

Level of evidence

Level III: Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies.
Cloud-to-Ground Lightning in Cities: Seasonal Variability and Influential Factors
Authors: Dewan Ashraf , Islam K. M. Ashraful , Enan Muhammad Esmat , Fariha Tanzim Rahman , Rafiuddin M. , Adnan Mohammed Sarfaraz Gani
Published: February 2024

Urban-induced land use changes have a significant impact on local weather patterns, leading to increased hydro-meteorological hazards in cities. Despite substantial threats posed to humans, understanding atmospheric hazards related to urbanisation, such as thunderstorms, lightning, and convective precipitation, remains unclear. This study aims to analyse seasonal variability of cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning in the five large metropolitans in Bangladesh utilising six years (2015–2020) of Global Lightning Detection Network (popularly known as GLD360) data. It also investigates factors influencing CG strokes. The analysis revealed substantial seasonal fluctuations in CG strokes, with a noticeable increase in lightning activity during the pre-monsoon months from upwind to metropolitan areas across the five cities. Both season and location appear to impact the diurnal variability of CG strokes in these urban centres. Bivariate regression analysis indicated that precipitation and particulate matter (PM) significantly influence lightning generation, whilst population density, urban size, and mean surface temperature have negligible effects. A sensitivity test employing a random forest (RF) model underscored the pivotal role of PM in CG strokes in four of the five cities assessed, highlighting the enduring impact of extreme pollution on lightning activity. Despite low causalities from CG lightning, the risk of property damage remains high in urban environments. This study provides valuable insights for shaping public policies in Bangladesh, a globally recognised climate hotspot.
Targeting Anhedonia in Adolescents: A Single Case Series of a Positive Imagery-Based Early Intervention
Authors: Hutchinson Taryn , Lau Jennifer Y. F. , Smith Patrick , Pile Victoria
Published: February 2024

Interventions targeting anhedonia in depression demonstrate encouraging results in adults but are lacking for adolescents. Here, we have adapted a brief imagery-based intervention (IMAGINE), which has shown promising results in reducing symptoms of depression in young people, to focus specifically on reducing symptoms of anhedonia (IMAGINE-Positive). We augment positive mental imagery generation with techniques to upregulate positive affect. Eight participants completed the four-session intervention. Data on feasibility and acceptability were collected. Questionnaires of symptomology and cognitive mechanisms (e.g. depression, anhedonia and future imagery vividness) were administered at pre-intervention, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up. The intervention was feasible to deliver and acceptable to participants. There was a large reduction in depression symptom scores from pre- to post-intervention (d = 1.12) and 63% of participants showed reliable improvement (RI), which was maintained at follow-up (d = 2.51, RI = 86%). Although there were only small reductions in anhedonia from pre to post (d = 0.38, RI = 0), there was a large reduction from pre to follow-up (d = 1.28, RI = 29%). There were also large increases in positive future imagery vividness (post, d =  − 1.08, RI = 50%; follow-up, d =  − 2.02, RI = 29%). Initial evidence suggests that IMAGINE-Positive is feasible and acceptable and may have clinical utility, but future randomised controlled trials are needed to further evaluate efficacy.
Unsupervised Machining Recognition from a Vibration Signal
Authors: Kristóf Lajber , Mátyás Dr Andó
Published: February 2024

Objectives

In unattended machining, monitoring the cutting processes holds significant importance. A crucial aspect to consider is whether chip formation occurs at a specific moment or not. Acquiring this knowledge can enhance production reliability and minimize losses.

Methods

To address this, an algorithm is proposed for detecting chip formation using vibration signals obtained from a CNC machine. The algorithm relies on the spindle RPM and vibration signal to identify the occurrence of machining cycles (chip formations). The evaluation process involved comparing the results of the algorithm to those obtained by a human manually selecting the machining parts from the same signal.

Results

Its effectiveness was evaluated across various feedrates, demonstrating its applicability under different conditions.

Conclusions

This method is able to detect the real machining more accurate than the use of G-code-based method.
Mortality from extreme meteorological and hydrogeological events in Italy: a rising health threat connected to climate change
Authors: Dalmastri Claudia , Uccelli Raffaella
Published: February 2024

The aim of the present work is to assess mortality associated to extreme meteorological and hydrological events (storms, floods, landslides, avalanches) for the period 2003–2020 in Italy. These extreme events are particularly worrying phenomena due to their increasing frequency and intensity connected to climate change. The considerable rise of extreme meteorological events in Italy has been having a dramatic impact on the environment and territories, particularly on intrinsically fragile ones, and on resident populations. More than 90% of Italian municipalities are at risk for extreme events, with more than 8 million inhabitants exposed. Number of deaths and SMRates due to such extreme events (X International Classification of Diseases: X36, X37 and X38) in Italy were calculated from regional to municipal level by ENEA mortality database (data source ISTAT). Geographic maps were elaborated by QGIS software (QGIS, RRID:SCR_018507) version 3.28. In the selected period, 378 overall deaths were detected: 321 deaths due to landslides and avalanches, 28 to cataclysmic storm, and 29 to floods. The regions with the highest mortality levels and/or number of municipalities involved and the municipalities at highest risk were identified. In consideration of the forecasted increase of such extreme events in Italy, the knowledge of Italian areas at highest risk can be used in the decision-making processes to assess priorities, allocate financial resources, define warning measures, and undertake preventive or mitigation actions. Moreover, the attributable mortality levels can be a useful basis for further risk assessment research aimed at estimating the cost in terms of human lives’ loss associated to such events in future climatic scenarios.
Young people’s experiences of being involved in quality improvement of youth mental health services
Authors: Bjønness Stig , Leidland Charlotte , Ellis Louise A. , Ree Eline
Published: February 2024

Background

There is a worldwide concern regarding young people’s mental health and the complexities of designing mental health services to meet these challenges. By integrating user knowledge in the design of mental health services, the services will be better suited to meet the distinctive requirements of youth, as well as uphold their entitlement to participate and influence. This study delves into the viewpoints of young people with experience from mental health services, exploring their perceived advantages and challenges related to their involvement in the enhancement of mental health services’ quality.

Methods

A qualitative study with in-depth interviews and thematic analysis were conducted. Ten young, experienced users participated in the study.

Results

Youth user involvement in quality improvement of mental health services yielded notable benefits experienced as fostering personal recovery. Simultaneously, this involvement entailed challenging responsibilities. The participants experienced challenges associated with navigating their memories and expressing concern for their peers. The success of user involvement was closely associated with open-minded cooperative healthcare professionals, facilitation within the services, and provision of support for the young participants.

Conclusions

This study elucidates perceived benefits and challenges related to user involvement at an organizational level. It identifies pivotal conditions to success and underscores the value of incorporating user experience in the improvement of services, not only to create services tailored to the needs of youth but also to instill a positive self-identity and empower those participating. Recognizing the value of experienced users in quality improvement of the services will promote development of youth-friendly services.
Climate change and human security in coastal regions
Authors: Petzold Jan , Scheffran Jürgen
Published: February 2024

Climate change has been recognised as a major concern in coastal hotspots exposed to multiple climate hazards under regionally specific characteristics of vulnerability. We review the emerging research and current trends in the academic literature on coastal climate risk and adaptation from a human security perspective. The ecological and socioeconomic developments are analysed for key risk areas, including coastal infrastructure; water, food and fisheries; health; human mobility; and conflict, taking the different geographical contexts of coastal areas in islands, megacities and deltas into consideration. Compounding and cascading interactions require integrative research and policy approaches to address the growing complexity. Governance mechanisms focus on coastal management and adaptation, nature-based solutions and community-based adaptation, considering their synergies and trade-offs. This perspective allows for a holistic view on climate risks to human security and vicious circles of societal instability in coastal systems and the interconnectedness of different risk dimensions and systems necessary for sustainable and transformative adaptation solutions for the most affected coastal hotspots.
On the use of smart hybrid contracts to provide flexibility in algorithmic governance
Authors: Molina-Jimenez Carlos , Felizia Sandra Milena
Published: February 2024

The use of computer technology to automate the enforcement of law is a promising alternative to simplify bureaucratic procedures. However, careless automation might result in an inflexible and dehumanized law enforcement system driven by algorithms that do not account for the particularities of individuals or minorities. In this article, we argue that hybrid smart contracts deployed to monitor rather than blindly enforce regulations can be used to add flexibility. Enforcement is a suitable alternative only when prevention is strictly necessary; however, we argue that in many situations a corrective approach based on monitoring is more flexible and suitable. To add more flexibility, the hybrid smart contract can be programmed to stop to request the intervention of a human or of a group of them when human judgment is needed.
Assessment of Nutritional Composition of Turkish Red Crescent Menus After the M7.8 and M7.6 Earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye
Authors: Günalan Elif , Yoldaş Tuba , Turgut Rana , Yenigün Ayça , Yıldırım Çavak Betül , Parmaksız Ayhan
Published: February 2024

Objective:

This study aims to evaluate the nutritional content and quality of the Turkish Red Crescent (TRC) menus delivered to earthquake victims after the 2023 earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye.

Methods:

The menus of general, search-rescue, diabetes, and celiac were obtained from the TRC following the magnitudes of 7.8 and 7.6 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. The nutrient content of the menus was evaluated with the Nutrient Rich Food (NRF20.3) score. In addition, the menus’ energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient contents were compared with the dietary reference intake values of the Türkiye Dietary Guideline—2022, European Food Safety Authority, and Food and Drug Administration.

Results:

The general menu was insufficient to meet the daily requirements of vitamin D, vitamin K, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium for earthquake victims. The sodium, phosphorous, and omega-6/omega-3 ratios were much higher than the recommended intakes. The NRF20.3 score of the diabetes menu was significantly higher than the search-rescue and celiac menus (P < 0.05). The energy content of the search-rescue menu was significantly higher than that of other menus (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The several nutritional risks were determined in TRC menus for earthquake victims who suffered from the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Several supplementation programs can be applied to the earthquake regions to obtain strength immunity and effectively challenge posttraumatic stress symptoms.
Understanding precipitation changes through unsupervised machine learning
Authors: Mooers Griffin , Beucler Tom , Pritchard Mike , Mandt Stephan
Published: February 2024

Despite the importance of quantifying how the spatial patterns of heavy precipitation will change with warming, we lack tools to objectively analyze the storm-scale outputs of modern climate models. To address this gap, we develop an unsupervised, spatial machine-learning framework to quantify how storm dynamics affect changes in heavy precipitation. We find that changes in heavy precipitation (above the 80th percentile) are predominantly explained by changes in the frequency of these events, rather than by changes in how these storm regimes produce precipitation. Our study shows how unsupervised machine learning, paired with domain knowledge, may allow us to better understand the physics of the atmosphere and anticipate the changes associated with a warming world.
Determinants of substance use among young people attending primary health centers in India
Authors: Venkatesh U. , Aparnavi P. , Mogan K.A. , Durga R. , Pearson Jennifer , Kishore Surekha , Joshi Hari Shanker , Nair Naveen Sukumaran , Nisha B. , Agrawal Renu , Vidusha Karavadi , Chenkual C. Vankhuma , Nath Bhola , Epari Venkata Rao , Kumari Ranjeeta , Goyal Pooja , Ahamed Farhad , Baruah Madhurjya , Anil R. , Swami Amrut Arun , Kamble Bhushan Dattatray , Sharma Gopal Ashish , Sharma Akash , Bera Om Prakash , Grover Ashoo , Verma Shikhar Kishore ,   FASAI Study Group
Published: February 2024

Background

Substance use is a complex condition with multidimensional determinants. The present study aims to find the prevalence and determinants of substance use among young people attending primary healthcare centers in India.

Methods

A multicentric cross-sectional study was conducted across 15 states in India on 1,630 young people (10–24 years) attending primary health centers. The Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) was used to capture data on substance use. The degree of substance involvement was assessed and multivariate regression analysis was conducted to determine the risk factors of substance use.

Results

The prevalence of substance use was 32.8%, with a median substance initiation age of 18 years. Among the substance users, 75.5% began before completing adolescence. Tobacco (26.4%), alcohol (26.1%) and cannabis (9.5%) were commonly consumed. Sociodemographic determinants included higher age, male gender, urban residence, positive family history, northeastern state residence and lower socioeconomic class. Over 80% of users had moderate or high involvement.

Conclusions

High substance use prevalence among young people in Indian healthcare centers underscores the urgency of targeted intervention. Insights on determinants guide effective prevention strategies for this complex public health issue.
Boundary layer transition of hypersonic flow over a delta wing
Authors: Qiu Hongtian , Shi Mingtao , Zhu Yiding , Lee Cunbiao
Published: February 2024

Cross-flow transition over a delta wing is systematically studied in a Mach 6.5 hypersonic wind tunnel, employing the Rayleigh scattering flow visualisation, high-speed schlieren and fast-response pressure sensors. Direct numerical simulations and analysis based on linear stability theory under the same flow conditions are applied to analyse the transition mechanism. Three unstable modes are identified: the travelling cross-flow instabilities, the second mode and the low-frequency waves. It is shown that the travelling cross-flow vortices first appear in the cross-flow region near the leading edge of the model. These vortices can modulate the mean profile of the flow, which benefits the growth of second mode. A phase-locked interaction mechanism transfers energy from the cross-flow instabilities to the high-frequency second mode, leading to amplification at the expense of the cross-flow instability. As the second mode grows to a critical amplitude, it triggers a

$z$

-type secondary instability within a similar frequency range, which introduces secondary finger-like structures connecting to the cross-flow vortex. It is further found that the generation of these finger-like structures is related to the expansion and compression of the second mode. These finger vortices further evolve along the streamwise direction into low-frequency waves and corresponding hairpin-like structures that finally trigger turbulence. An interaction mechanism likely exists between the secondary instability and the low-frequency waves, since their phase speeds are approaching each other. These observations of the interaction mechanism are consistent with those of previous studies on hypersonic boundary layers (Zhang et al., Phys. Fluids, vol. 32 (7), 2020, 071702; Li et al., Phys. Fluids, vol. 32 (5), 2020, 051701).
EDGE WEIGHTING FUNCTIONS ON THE SEMITOTAL DOMINATING SET OF CLAW-FREE GRAPHS
Authors: CHEN JIE , CHEN HONGZHANG , XU SHOU-JUN
Published: February 2024

In an isolate-free graph G, a subset S of vertices is a semitotal dominating set of G if it is a dominating set of G and every vertex in S is within distance 2 of another vertex of S. The semitotal domination number of G, denoted by
$\gamma _{t2}(G)$
, is the minimum cardinality of a semitotal dominating set in G. Using edge weighting functions on semitotal dominating sets, we prove that if
$G\neq N_2$
is a connected claw-free graph of order
$n\geq 6$
with minimum degree
$\delta (G)\geq 3$
, then
$\gamma _{t2}(G)\leq \frac{4}{11}n$
and this bound is sharp, disproving the conjecture proposed by Zhu et al. [‘Semitotal domination in claw-free cubic graphs’, Graphs Combin.33(5) (2017), 1119–1130].
Faith and the Absurd: Kierkegaard, Camus and Job’s Religious Protest
Authors: Verbin N.
Published: February 2024

Religious protest, such as the protest that Job expresses, reveals the manners in which believers experience the absurd while hanging on to God. The purpose of this article is to explore the “grammar” of this paradoxical faith stance by bringing Kierkegaard and Camus to bear upon it, and thereby to show the “family resemblance” between Job, Camus’s “absurd man,” and the Kierkegaardian believer. I begin with a discussion of experiences of the absurd that give rise to religious protest. I then turn to Kierkegaard to explore the manners in which “faith’s thought” renders the “experience of the absurd” a religious one, while pushing the believer further into the absurd. I end with a discussion of Job as an absurd rebel in Camus’s sense.
Shift is derived
Authors: LAMONT ANDREW
Published: February 2024

Shift is an input–output mapping where a feature or autosegment loses its underlying associations and surfaces with different associations. In Harmonic Serialism, shift can either be analyzed as a multi-step process or a single-step process. While Gietz et al. (2023) argue for the latter, this paper refutes their arguments and provides evidence supporting a multi-step analysis of shift. Specifically, it demonstrates that shift in Kibondei and Halkomelem, the languages analyzed by Gietz et al. (2023), does not require a single-step shift operation and that the analyses they present are empirically inadequate. Typological modeling not only reinforces the result that a single-step shift operation is superfluous but demonstrates that grammars with such an operation undergenerate with respect to the attested typology.
An overview of nutritional factors in the aetiopathogenesis of myocardial fibrosis in great apes
Authors: Van Mulders Laurens , Locquet Laurent , Kaandorp Christine , Janssens Geert P. J.
Published: February 2024

The main cause of mortality in great apes in zoological settings is cardiovascular disease (CVD), affecting all four taxa: chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), bonobo (Pan paniscus), gorilla (Gorilla spp.) and orangutan (Pongo spp.). Myocardial fibrosis, the most typical histological characterisation of CVD in great apes, is non-specific, making it challenging to understand the aetiopathogenesis. A multifactorial origin of disease is assumed whereby many potential causative factors are directly or indirectly related to the diet, which in wild-living great apes mainly consists of high-fibre, low-carbohydrate and very low-sodium components. Diets of great apes housed in zoological settings are often different compared with the situation in the wild. Moreover, low circulating vitamin D levels have recently been recognised in great apes housed in more northern regions. Evaluation of current supplementation guidelines shows that, despite implementation of different dietary strategies, animals stay vitamin D insufficient. Therefore, recent hypotheses designate vitamin D deficiency as a potential underlying factor in the pathogenesis of myocardial fibrosis. The aim of this literature review is to: (i) examine important differences in nutritional factors between zoological and wild great ape populations; (ii) explain the potential detrimental effects of the highlighted dietary discrepancies on cardiovascular function in great apes; and (iii) elucidate specific nutrition-related pathophysiological mechanisms that may underlie the development of myocardial fibrosis. This information may contribute to understanding the aetiopathogenesis of myocardial fibrosis in great apes and pave the way for future clinical studies and a more preventive approach to great ape CVD management.
Associations between food insecurity and diabetes risk factors in US adolescents in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2016
Authors: Fulay Aarohee P , Lee Joyce M , Baylin Ana , Wolfson Julia A , Leung Cindy W
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the associations between household food insecurity and diabetes risk factors among lower-income US adolescents.

Design:

Cross-sectional analysis. Household food security status was measured using the 18-item Food Security Survey Module. Simple and multivariable linear and logistic regressions were used to assess the association between food security status and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), HbA1C and homoeostatic model assessment – insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The analyses were adjusted for household and adolescent demographic and health characteristics.

Setting:

USA.

Participants:

3412 US adolescents aged 12–19 years with household incomes ≤300 % of the federal poverty line from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles 2007–2016.

Results:

The weighted prevalence of marginal food security was 15·4 % and of food insecurity was 32·9 %. After multivariate adjustment, adolescents with food insecurity had a 0·04 % higher HbA1C (95 % CI 0·00, 0·09, P-value = 0·04) than adolescents with food security. There was also a significant overall trend between severity of food insecurity and higher HbA1C (Ptrend = 0·045). There were no significant mean differences in adolescents’ FPG, OGTT or HOMA-IR by household food security.

Conclusions:

Food insecurity was associated with slightly higher HbA1c in a 10-year sample of lower-income US adolescents aged 12–19 years; however, other associations with diabetes risk factors were not significant. Overall, this suggests slight evidence for an association between food insecurity and diabetes risk in US adolescents. Further investigation is warranted to examine this association over time.
Exploring public health nurses’ acceptability of clinical assessment tools in a Norwegian child health centre
Authors: Barrett Elisabeth Ovanger , Laholt Hilde , Lorem Geir Fagerjord , Wang Catharina Elisabeth Arfwedson
Published: February 2024

Background:

Infants’ symptoms of mental struggle are often diffuse and undifferentiated, and health services do not identify many infants at risk of poor development. However, primary health care is advantageous for early identification, given there are frequent consultations during the infant’s first two years. Health policy encourages using evidence-based screening but use varies in primary health care. The Alarm Distress Baby Scale (ADBB) is an assessment tool targeting social withdrawal in infants 2-24 months of age.

Aim:

To explore contextual factors related to public health nurses’ (PHNs) acceptability of clinical assessment tools in a Norwegian child health centre.

Methods:

Prior to an upcoming ADBB training, we used focus group discussions with PHNs to explore their views on their professional role and practice and how this concurs with using assessment tools.

Findings:

Thematic analysis resulted in the following themes: (1) A Role requiring Supporting the Parents and Safeguarding the Infant; (2) The Challenge of Interpreting Infant Expressions; and (3) Organisational Preconditions for Accepting New Methods.

Conclusion:

Our findings show that PHNs regard assessment tools as an aid to detect infants at risk, but that systematic use of such tools can hinder their ability to be flexible, egalitarian, and resource-focused. We also find that acceptability of assessment tools requires a system for continuous training and a well-established referral routine.
Ottoman subjects and prisoners of war in the Semirechye Oblast during the First World War
Authors: Abdukadyrov Nurzhigit , Mukhazhanova Tolkyn , Sabdenova Gulmira
Published: February 2024

Amidst the upheavals of the First World War, a considerable number of prisoners of war from the Ottoman Empire found themselves in Russia, resettled primarily in the central regions of the Russian Empire. The regions of Volga, Siberia, Ural, and Western Siberia played host to Ottoman prisoners, who were accommodated in camps and barracks across cities and rural areas. Over time, a noteworthy migration led some prisoners to the territory of modern Kazakhstan, with cities like Samara, Orenburg, and Omsk serving as pivotal points before further dispersion into the central regions of Kazakhstan. As a result, Ottoman citizens found themselves under suspicion and were dispersed akin to prisoners. The Semirechye Oblast (Zhetisu region) emerged as a focal point where both Ottoman subjects and prisoners of war were dispersed during this tumultuous period. This article investigates the political and social dynamics, as well as the fate, of Turkish prisoners of war and citizens within the Semirechye Oblast during the war. The analysis delves into the status of Ottoman Empire subjects who acquiesced to the authority of the Russian Empire, offering insights into the lives of prisoners of war in this specific region.
Responses of soil seedbank and aboveground weed communities to globe artichoke–cropping systems: an on-farm analysis
Authors: Scavo Aurelio , Restuccia Alessia , Di Martino Alessandro , Mauromicale Giovanni
Published: February 2024

Globe artichoke [Cynara cardunculus L. var. scolymus (L.) Fiori] is one of the most important crops across the Mediterranean basin, where weeds are an important biotic constraint limiting crop yields. However, the effects of globe artichoke–cropping systems on weeds have been rarely tested. Following the demand for eco-friendly weed management practices, a multi-location trial (13 farms) was carried out, measuring weed seedbanks and aboveground communities within four globe artichoke–cropping systems: globe artichoke monoculture (ART), past cultivation of globe artichoke (8 to 10 yr ago) (past-ART), a globe artichoke–durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) rotation (ART-WHEAT), and a control where globe artichoke was never grown. Both below- and aboveground weed communities were dominated by annual therophytes, but a low correspondence was found between both types of communities. Averaged over farms, ART highly reduced both the weed soil seedbank (1,600 seeds m−2 on average) and the aboveground weed biomass (only 3.4 g dry weight m−2) compared with the control, with a decrease of 72% in the soil seedbank and 99% in the aboveground flora. Moreover, on the farms where globe artichoke was previously grown, a very low aboveground weed biomass (77% less than control) was found. In addition, ART contributed to the preservation of high levels of weed diversity (except for aboveground communities) and therefore avoided the creation of a specialized weed flora. In conclusion, we suggest the inclusion of globe artichoke into crop rotation schemes in Mediterranean agroecosystems as a sustainable tool for reducing both the soil weed seedbank and aboveground weeds, thus reducing the requirement of direct weed control methods and preserving the environment.