bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the Tsunami on hospitalzations at the tertiary care hospital in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka
Authors: Østbye, MD, PhD Truls , Ponnamperuma, MBBS Thyagi , Fernando, MBBS, MSc Nayana , Abeygunawardena, MSc Vathsala , Wijayasiri, MBBS, MSc W.A.A. , Chen, MD Jodi J. , Woods, MD, MPH Christopher W.
Published: January 2019

Objective: Sri Lanka’s human, physical, social, and economic resources suffered a massive impact after the tsunami of December 26, 2004. To assist in preparing for future disasters, the authors sought to characterize the pattern of hospitalizations from the main impact zone in the Southern Province.Design: Retrospective chart review.Setting: Patients admitted to Teaching Hospital, Karapitiya, the only tertiary care hospital in the Southern Province.Patients, Participants: All hospital admissions on the day of and week following the tsunami, and a random sample (5 percent) of admissions from the month preceding, and the 3 months following the tsunami were coded according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition, analyzed, and geomapped.Intervention: N/A.Main Outcome Measure(s): The overall daily number of hospitalizations increased by 50 percent on the day of the tsunami and decreased in the following week.Results: Before the tsunami, injuries typically accounted for 20 percent of hospital admissions. However, injuries were markedly higher (89 percent of the total) on the day of the tsunami and remained elevated (35 percent) during the following week. After the initial peak in injuries (including near drownings), there was no increase in the frequency of infectious, cardiac, or psychiatric admissions.Conclusions: Injuries (including near drownings) were the most common cause of admissions immediately after the tsunami.The distribution of specific diagnoses differed from that seen after other natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. A central aspect of disaster relief operations and planning includes a thorough understanding of the postdisaster health effects and changes in disease patterns.
The performance-level model of hospital decontamination preparedness
Authors: Phelps, JD, MPH Scot , Doering, MS Garrett
Published: January 2019

Objective: Describe a multilevel model of decontamination capacity for hospitals.Design: Descriptive model.Setting: Acute care hospitals with decontamination responsibilities.Patients, Participants: None.Interventions: None.Main Outcome Measure(s): NoneResults: This multilevel model of defining decontamination capacity would allow more realistic assessment of current capacity, allow for fluctuating service levels depending on time of day, incorporate realistic ramp-up and ramp-down of decontamination services, allow for a defined fall-back decontamination model should decontamination processes fail, allow hospitals to define long-term decontamination service level goals, and allow better understanding of when and why to focus on low-risk/low-resource patients rather than high-risk/high-resource patients.Conclusions: This multiple-level model would allow for more realistic and effective hospital-based decontamination service models and should become part of the national decontamination paradigm.
“Social Worth” will not affect allocation of scarce resources in a pandemic or disaster: Political correctness, sophistry, or reality?
Authors: Zoraster, MD, MPH Richard M.
Published: January 2019

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Humanitarian relief aid “versus” development: Should they be so far apart?
Authors: Redwood-Campbell, MD, CCFP, FCFP, DTMH, MPH Lynda
Published: January 2019

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Ethical issues in conduct of research in combat and disaster operations
Authors: McManus, MD, MCR John G. , McClinton, RN, BSN Annette , Morton, MD, MPH Melinda J.
Published: January 2019

Background: The conduct of research in the combat and disaster environments shares many of the same fundamental principles and regulations that govern civilian biomedical research. However, Department of Defense research protocols stipulate additional requirements designed to preserve servicemembers’ informed consent rights, uphold ethical standards, and protect sensitive or classified information.The authors reviewed studies that have been approved for the conduct of research in current combat operations and also discuss their applicability in disaster settings.Methods: This is a descriptive, retrospective study of protocols that have currently been approved for conduct of research in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.Results: During the period of July 2005 through October 2007, 38 retrospective chart review protocols, seven prospective studies requiring consent or an alteration of the consent document and 12 prospective observational studies were submitted through the Deployed Research Committee in Iraq for review and approval at the Brooke Army Medical Center Institutional Review Board (IRB). A total of 55 protocols were approved by the IRB for implementation in the Iraq combat theater. Most of these protocols involved trauma care treatment. One prospective study investigating the effects of blast-concussive injuries on US Soldiers in Iraq requiring informed consent was reviewed and approved.Conclusions: The conduct of military medical research has, and will make, significant and lasting contributions to the practice of both civilian and military medicine. Although policies and regulations to conduct research and release-associated findings often seem cumbersome and stringent, these added hurdles serve not only to ensure protection of the rights of human subjects during a time of potentially increased vulnerability, but also to protect the security interests of US troops. Many of these principles and practices are directly applicable in disaster research environments.
Sheltering patterns and utilization following the 2007 southern California wildfires
Authors: Kirsch, MD, MPH Thomas D. , Jenkins, MD, MPH J. Lee , Sauer, BA Lauren M. , Hsieh, PhD Yu-Hsiang , Calvello, MD, MPH Emilie , Hsu, MD, MPH Edbert
Published: January 2019

The 2007 southern California wildfires resulted in over 500,000 residents being displaced. A team from Johns Hopkins University and the American Red Cross surveyed 163 families at shelters and local assistance centers during the disaster. The responses were used to evaluate the needs and movement patterns of a displaced population.The data were also used to determine the risk factors associated with needing sheltering. There is a lower than expected reliance on public shelters, and displaced persons move frequently.
Remembering Chris Rowland, Physician, Friend, Extraordinary Editor, International Scholar and Leader
Authors: DeVito, Jr., Publisher Richard A.
Published: January 2019

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Pediatric disaster preparedness in the medical setting: Integrating mental health
Authors: Gold, PhD Jeffrey I. , Montano, BA Zorash , Shields, LMFT, ATR-BC, CTS Sandra , Mahrer, BA Nicole E. , Vibhakar, LCSW, LMSW Viktoria , Ybarra, MS, CCLS Tanya , Yee, BA Nancy , Upperman, MD, FAAP, FACS Jeffrey , Blake, RN, MN, CCRN, NEA-BC Nancy , Stevenson, RN, BSN Kathleen , Nager, MD, MHA Alan L.
Published: January 2019

Introduction: The increasing prevalence of disasters worldwide highlights the need for established and universal disaster preparedness plans.The devastating events of September 11 and Hurricane Katrina have spurred the development of some disaster response systems. These systems, however, are predominantly focused on medical needs and largely overlook mental health considerations. Negative outcomes of disasters include physical damage as well as psychological harm. Mental health needs should be considered throughout the entire disaster response process, especially when caring for children, adolescents, and their families.Objective: To provide an overview and recommendations for the integration of mental health considerations into pediatric disaster preparedness and response in the medical setting.Methods: Recommendations were developed by a panel of disaster preparedness and mental health experts during the Childrens Hospital Los Angeles Pediatric Disaster Resource and Training Center: Workshop on Family Reunification in Los Angeles, California, March 31-April 1, 2008. Experts discussed the inclusion of mental health-specific considerations and services at all stages of disaster preparedness and response. Recommendations involve the integration of mental health into triage and tracking, the adoption of a child ambassador model, environment, and developmentally appropriate interventions, education, communication, death notification, and family reunification.Conclusions: The inclusion of mental health concerns into pediatric disaster preparedness may help prevent further and unnecessary psychological harm to children and adolescent survivors following a disaster.
Web-based training on weapons of mass destruction response for emergency medical services personnel
Authors: Gershon, MHS, DrPH Robyn R. M. , Canton, BA Allison N. , Magda, MA Lori A. , DiMaggio, PhD Charles , Gonzalez, MD, FACEP Dario , Dul, OD, MS Mitchell W.
Published: January 2019

Objective: To develop, implement, and assess a web-based simulation training program for emergency medical services (EMS) personnel on recognition and treatment of ocular injuries resulting from weapons of mass destruction (WMD) attacks.Design: The training program consisted of six modules: WMD knowledge and event detection, ocular anatomy, ocular first aid (ie, flushing, cupping, and patching), and three WMD simulations (ie, sarin gas release, anthrax release, and radioactive dispersal device). Pretest, post-test, and 1-month follow-up test and a program evaluation were used to measure knowledge gain and retention and to assess the effectiveness of the program.Setting: New York State EMS.Participants: Four hundred and sixty-four individuals participated in the training program and all waves of the testing (86 percent retention rate).Main Outcome Variables: The effectiveness of the training intervention was measured using pretest and post-test questionnaires and analyzed using dependent t-tests.Results: Assessment scores for overall knowledge increased from the pretest (mean 15.7, standard deviation [SD] = 2.1) to the post-test (mean = 17.8, SD = 1.3), p = 0.001, and from pretest (mean = 15.7, SD = 2.1) to 1-month follow-up test (mean = 16.6, SD = 2.0), p 0.001. Ninety-two percent of respondents indicated that the program reinforced understanding of WMDs.Conclusions: This training method provides an effective and low-cost approach to educate and evaluate EMS personnel on emergency treatment of eye trauma associated with the use of WMD. Online training should also be supplemented with hands-on practice and refresher trainings.
Disaster planning: Potential effects of an influenza pandemic on community healthcare resources
Authors: Mareiniss, MD, JD, MBe Darren P. , Hirshon, MD, MPH Jon Mark , Thibodeau, MD Bryan C.
Published: January 2019

The federal government states that local communities are primarily responsible for public health planning and implementation during a severe pandemic. Accordingly, an assessment of the current healthcare capabilities in these communities and planning for deficiencies is required. This article assesses the impact and healthcare capabilities of a specific model local community in a mid-Atlantic state. Two statistical models demonstrate the likely impact of both mild and severe pandemics on local healthcare resources. Both models reveal significant deficiencies that local communities may face. In the event of a severe 1918- type pandemic influenza or a mild influenza pandemic, many local community healthcare systems will likely have inadequate resources to respond to the crisis; such a healthcare emergency would likely overwhelm local community resources and current public health practices. Proper planning at the community level is critical for being truly prepared for such a public health emergency.
May/June 2009
Authors: DeVito, Jr. Richard A.
Published: January 2019

Vol. 4, No. 3
A state survey of emergency department preparedness for the care of children in a mass casualty event
Authors: Thompson, MD Tonya , Lyle, MD Kristen , Mullins, MPH S. Hope , Dick, MD Rhonda , Graham, MD James
Published: January 2019

Objective: The Institute of Medicine has issued two reports over the past 10 years raising concerns about the care of children in the emergency medical care system of the United States. Given that children are involved in most mass casualty events and there are deficiencies in the day-to-day emergency care of children, this project was undertaken to document the preparedness of hospitals in AR for the care of children in mass casualty or disaster situations.Design: Mailed survey to all emergency department medical directors in AR. Nonresponders received a second mailed survey and an attempt at survey via phone.Participants: Medical directors of the emergency departments of the 80 acute care hospitals in AR.Results: Seventy-two of 80 directors responded (90 percent response rate). Only 13 percent of hospitals reported they have pediatric mass casualty protocols and in only 28 percent of hospitals the disaster plan includes pediatric-specific issues such as parental reunification. Most hospitals hold mass casualty training events (94 percent), at least annually, but only 64 percent report including pediatric patients in their disaster drills. Most hospitals include local fire (90 percent), police (82 percent), and emergency medical services (77 percent) in their drills, but only 23 percent report involving local schools in the disaster planning process. Eighty-three percent of hospitals responding reported their staff is trained in decontamination procedures.Thirty-five percent reported having warm water showers available for infant/children decontamination. Ninety-four percent of hospitals have a plan for calling in extra staff in a disaster situation, which most commonly involves a phone tree (43 percent). Ninety-three percent reported the availability of Ham Radios, walkie-talkie, or Arkansas Wireless Information Network (AWIN) units for communication in case of land line loss, but only 16 percent reported satellite phone or Tandberg units. Twelve percent reported reliance on cell phones in this situation.Conclusions: This survey demonstrated important deficiencies in the preparedness of hospitals in AR for the care of children in disaster. Although many hospitals are relatively well prepared for the care of adults in disaster situations, the needs of children are different and hospitals in AR are not as well prepared for pediatric disaster care.
Hospital preparedness in Nebraska: A pandemic influenza survey
Authors: Smith, BA Matthew , Smith, MD Philip W.
Published: January 2019

Because hospital response to pandemic influenza is a critical component of preparedness, the authors performed a survey of hospitals in Nebraska to assess pandemic influenza preparedness. An anonymous 15- question survey was sent electronically to all 85 hospitals in Nebraska in November 2008 and 48 hospitals (56.5 percent) responded. A large majority of Nebraska hospitals have a pandemic influenza plan (n  = 41/48, 85.4 percent), and have begun stockpiling materials (n  = 44/47, 93.6 percent). Most have established contact with local public health (n  = 42/47, 89.4 percent), and in fact reported that their communication with public health has improved as a result of pandemic influenza planning (n  = 39/46, 84.8 percent). This survey illuminates current progress and areas for potential improvement in pandemic influenza planning by Nebraska hospitals.
Design and evaluation of a disaster preparedness logistics tool
Authors: Neches, PhD Robert , Ryutov, PhD Tatyana , Kichkaylo, PhD Tatiana , Burke, PhD, MPH Rita V. , Claudius, MD Ilene A. , Upperman, MD, FAAP, FACS Jeffrey S.
Published: January 2019

Objective: The purpose of this article is to describe the development and testing of the Pediatric Emergency Decision Support System (PEDSS), a dynamic tool for pediatric victim disaster planning.Design: This is a descriptive article outlining an innovative automated approach to pediatric decision support and disaster planning.Settings: Disaster Resource Centers and umbrella hospitals in Los Angeles County.Patients: The authors use a model set of hypothetical patients for our pediatric disaster planning approach.Results: The authors developed the PEDSS software to accomplish two goals: (a) core that supports user interaction and data management requirements (eg, accessing demographic information about a healthcare facility’s catchment area) and (b) set of modules each addressing a critical disaster preparation issue.Conclusions: The authors believe the PEDSS tool will help hospital disaster response personnel produce and maintain disaster response plans that apply best practice pediatric recommendations to their particular local conditions and requirements.
Longitudinal expandable shelter for medical response during disasters
Authors: Miniati, MS Roberto , Dori, MS Fabrizio , Iadanza, MS Ernesto , Lo Sardo, BSEE Marco , Boncinelli, MD Sergio
Published: January 2019

Introduction: During medical emergencies, hospitals represent the final point of the whole rescue process. Therefore, effective health mobile structures have to be inserted between hospitals and the place of the event with the aim of giving the best of cures (using appropriate and easy to use equipment) for a safer and faster evacuation to hospitals.Methods: Literature review and national and international disaster medicine standards were the basis for this study to provide clinical, hygienical, and organizational needs to satisfy for the medical structure design. Project requirements have been obtained by analyzing structural, organizational, and clinical process necessities. Structural requirements respond to the possibility of installation on every ground type, resistance to every weather condition, and necessity of easy and fast transportation. Technological equipment is obtained from clinical evaluation for patient stabilization.Results: The designed structure results to be a longitudinal expandable shelter (LES) for medical emergencies response organized in three internal functional areas. Possibility of automatic expandability allows rapid transportation and easy deployment. The functional internal organization provides three areas: “Diagnostic,” “Therapeutic,” and “Pre-evacuation monitoring.” Further, longitudinal expandability supports the basic hygienical rules in healthcare processes allowing the unidirectional flow of casualties from dirtier to cleaner areas of the structure.Conclusions: LES represents the answer to expressed requisites by disaster medicine standards and guidelines. It aims to provide an efficient and effective support for sanitary aid in response to disasters or emergencies, by improving aspects related to effectiveness, hygiene, and quality of clinical performances especially for highest critical cases.
Disaster preparedness among medical students: A survey assessment
Authors: Sauser, MD Kori , Burke, PhD, MPH Rita V. , Ferrer, PhD Rizaldy R. , Goodhue, CPNP Catherine J. , Chokshi, MD Nikunj C. , Upperman, MD, FACS, FAAP Jeffrey S.
Published: January 2019

Objective: To describe the level of preparedness in performing medical procedures of medical students at one allopathic medical school and to determine the level of willingness to perform these procedures in the event of a disaster.Design: Cross-sectional survey.Setting: US allopathic medical school associated with a county hospital.Participants: All third- and fourth-year medical students (344) in the 2007-2008 academic year were invited to participate. One hundred ninety-five students participated in this study (response rate _ 57.6 percent).Main outcome measures: Information on demographic characteristics, personal disaster experience, personal disaster preparedness, and overall preparedness level and willingness to perform various medical procedures was collected. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify the factors predicting procedural willingness during a disaster.Results: Demographics and personal disaster preparedness were not statistically significant between third-year medical students (M3) and fourth-year medical students (M4). Although procedural preparedness was significantly higher in M4 than M3, willingness to perform these procedures in a disaster was not different. Fourth-year students, first receivers (students’ anticipated field is in emergency medicine or surgery), not having had a personal disaster experience, and increased procedural preparedness independently impact procedural willingness in a disaster. However, when controlled for the covariate effects in the regression model, only first receivers, no past personal disaster experience, and increased procedural preparedness predicted willingness to perform medical procedures during a disaster.Conclusions: Third- and fourth-year students possess skills that may prove useful in a disaster response. Further investigations are necessary to determine how medical students may be utilized during these events.
Hospital-based special needs patient decontamination: Lessons from the shower
Authors: Bulson, MPA, BSN, RN Julie , Bulson, MS Timothy C. , Vande Guchte, FRO-T, HERT-T Kathi S.
Published: January 2019

Objectives: A hospital-based decontamination team tested whether it could (1) perform effective technical decontamination while maintaining safety of staff and patients; (2) safely accommodate unique needs in the showers, including guide dogs and motorized wheelchairs; (3) identify needs of special needs populations by patient type, including blindness, hearing loss, and cognitive learning disabilities; (4) outline effective use of federal preparedness funds to support planning and execution of tabletop and mock victim drills; and (5) demonstrate the ability of a community hospital to act as a catalyst for community-wide disaster response improvements.Design: A series of five disaster exercises were used to test hypotheses and to generate quality improvement results.Setting: Fixed emergency department decontamination facilities.Patients/participants: A total of 39 hospitalbased decontamination team members, 40 other drill staff, and 35 mock victims were included.Main outcome measures: Three priority decontamination operations changes resulted from each of the five completed drills.Results: Formulated prioritized list of decontamination team procedural changes to improve patient safety and technical decontamination and to generate a table of best practices to share.Conclusions: With enhanced training, disaster drills participation of community response agencies and special needs patients, community hospitals can improve safety while accommodating unique patient needs.
Dilemmas and controversies within civilian and military organizations in the execution of humanitarian aid in Iraq: A review
Authors: Morton, MD, MPH Melinda J. , Burnham, MD, PhD Gilbert M.
Published: January 2019

Civilian humanitarian assistance organizations and military forces are working in a similar direction in many humanitarian operations around the world. However, tensions exist over the role of the military in such operations. The purpose of this article is to review cultural perspectives of civilian and military actors and to discuss recent developments in civil-military humanitarian collaboration in the provision of health services in Iraq for guiding such collaborative efforts in postconflict and other settings in future. Optimal collaborative efforts are most likely to be achieved through the following tenets: defining appropriate roles for military forces at the beginning of humanitarian operations (optimally the provision of transportation, logistical coordination, and security), promoting development of ongoing relationships between civilian and military agencies, establishment of humanitarian aid training programs for Department of Defense personnel, and the need for the military to develop and use quantitative aid impact indicators for assuring quality and effectiveness of humanitarian aid.
November/December 2010
Authors: DeVito, Jr. Richard A.
Published: January 2019

Vol. 5, No. 6
Emergent use of social media: A new age of opportunity for disaster resilience
Authors: Keim, MD Mark K. , Noji, MD Eric
Published: January 2019

Social media are forms of information and communication technology disseminated through social interaction. Social media rely on peer-to-peer (P2P) networks that are collaborative, decentralized, and community driven. They transform people from content consumers into content producers. Popular networking sites such as MySpace™,Facebook™,Twitter™, and Google™are versions of social media that are most commonly used for connecting with friends, relatives, and employees. The role of social media in disaster management became galvanized during the world response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake. During the immediate aftermath, much of what people around the world were learning about the earthquake originated from social media sources. Social media became the new forum for collective intelligence, social convergence, and community activism. During the first 2 days following the earthquake, “texting” mobile phone users donated more than $5 million to the American Red Cross. Both public and private response agencies used Google Maps™. Millions joined MySpace™ and Facebook™ discussion groups to share information, donate money, and offer comfort and support. Social media has also been described as “remarkably well organized, self correcting, accurate, and concentrated,” calling into question the ingrained view of unidirectional, official-to-public information broadcasts. Social media may also offer potential psychological benefit for vulnerable populations gained through participation as stakeholders in the response. Disaster victims report a psychological need to contribute, and by doing so, they are better able to cope with their situation. Affected populations may gain resilience by replacing their helplessness with dignity, control, as well as personal and collective responsibility. However, widespread use of social media also involves several important challenges for disaster management. Although social media is growing rapidly, it remains less widespread and accessible than traditional media. Also, public officials often view P2P communications as “backchannels” with potential to spread misinformation and rumor. In addition, in absence of the normal checks and balances that regulate traditional media, privacy rights violations can occur as people use social media to describe personal events and circumstances.
January/February 2011
Authors: DeVito, Jr. Richard A.
Published: January 2019

Vol. 6, No. 1
May/June 2011
Authors: DeVito, Jr. Richard A.
Published: January 2019

Vol. 6, No. 3
Clinical Research and Practical Application of Mass Casualty Medicine
Authors: DeVito, Jr. Richard A.
Published: January 2019

Vol. 9, No. 1–Winter 2014
Planning considerations for persons with access and functional needs in a disaster—Part 1: Overview and legal
Authors: Mace, MD Sharon E. , Doyle, MD Constance J. , Askew, MD Kim , Bradin, DO Stuart , Baker, MD Mark , Joseph, MD Madeline M. , Sorrentino, MD Annalise
Published: January 2019

Although disasters can affect anyone in a given community or region, those with access and functional needs have the highest rates of morbidity and mortality during an emergency or disaster. There are many unique and complex issues that should be considered when planning and caring for these individuals in a disaster situation. Who are these individuals, what specific issues should be addressed when considering these members of the population, and what recommendations can be made to address their unique needs? How can we include them as part of the all-hazard, comprehensive approach to disaster management? The first part of this three-part series identifies who is included in this population and what are the legal considerations that arise in caring for, not only this unique group but also all the members of the community in a disaster. The second part considers evacuation, sheltering, sheltering in place, communication, medical needs, independence, supervision, and transportation (CMIST) with a focus on mental health. The third part deals with the medical aspect of CMIST and with recommendations that may aid disaster responders and planners in caring for these high-risk individuals in a disaster.
National survey of institutional pediatric disaster preparedness
Authors: Ketterhagen, MD Timothy M. , Dahl-Grove, MD Deanna L. , McKee, MD Michele R.
Published: January 2019

Objective: Describe institutional disaster preparations focusing upon the strategies to address pediatric patients in disaster preparedness.Design: Descriptive study using survey methodology.Setting: Hospitals that provide emergency care to pediatric patients throughout the United States.Participants: Survey responses were solicited from hospital personnel that are familiar with the disaster preparedness plan at their institution.Interventions: None.Main outcome measures: Describe how pediatric patients are included in institutional disaster preparedness plans. The presence of a pediatric-specific lead, policies and procedures, and geographic/demographic patterns are also a focus.Results: The survey was distributed to 120 hospitals throughout the United States and responses were received from 29 states. Overall response rate was 58 percent, with 53 percent of the surveys fully completed. Sixty-three percent of hospitals had an individual responsible for pediatric-specific disaster planning and 78 percent specifically addressed the care of pediatric patients (<16 yo) in their disaster plan. The hospitals with an individual designated for pediatric disaster planning were more likely to have a disaster plan that specifically addresses the care of pediatric patients (90 percent vs 56 percent; p = 0.015), to represent children with special healthcare needs as simulated patients in disaster exercises (73 percent vs 22 percent; p = 0.003), and to include pediatric decontamination procedures in disaster exercises (78 percent vs 35 percent; p = 0.008) than hospitals without a designated pediatric disaster planner.Conclusion: The majority of hospitals surveyed incorporate pediatric patients into their disaster preparedness plan. Those hospitals with an individual designated for pediatric disaster planning were more likely to specifically address the care of pediatric patients in their institutional disaster plan.
Planning considerations for persons with access and functional needs in a disaster—Part 3: Medical CMIST and recommendations
Authors: Mace, MD Sharon E. , Doyle, MD Constance J. , Askew, MD Kim , Bradin, DO Stuart , Baker, MD Mark , Joseph, MD Madeline M. , Sorrentino, MD Annalise
Published: January 2019

Although disasters can affect anyone in a given community or region, those with access and functional needs have the highest rates of morbidity and mortality during an emergency or disaster. There are many unique and complex issues that should be considered when dealing with these individuals in a disaster situation. Who are these individuals, what specific issues should be addressed when considering these members of the population, and what recommendations can be made in order to address their unique needs? How can we include them as part of the all-hazard, comprehensive approach to disaster management? The first part of this three-part series identifies who is included in this population and what are the legal considerations that arise in caring for not only this unique group but also all of the members of the community in a disaster. The second part considers evacuation, sheltering, sheltering in place, communication, medical needs, independence, supervision, and transportation (CMIST) with a focus on mental health. The third part deals with the medical aspect of CMIST and with recommendations that may aid disaster responders and planners in caring for these high-risk individuals in a disaster.
Non-invasive diagnosis of steatosis, inflammatory changes and liver fibrosis in patients with
non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. Pilot study
Authors: Ciećko-Michalska Irena , Szczepanek Małgorzata , Wierzbicka-Tutka Iga , Zahradnik-Bilska Janina , Mach Tomasz
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common causes of abnormal liver enzymes in adult patients consulted by hepatologists. Due to the high prevalence of this disease, most often associated with obesity, it is necessary to assess the risk of NAFLD, monitoring the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.

Material and methods

We evaluated the intensity of steatosis, inflammatory activity and fibrosis in 36 patients with NAFLD (fatty liver in abdominal ultrasound examination), using non-invasive tests: SteatoTest, ActiTest and FibroTest. We compared the prevalence of metabolic disorders and hypertension between women and men.

Results

There were no significant differences in analysed parameters of metabolic disorders between women and men. In both studied groups, the intensity of steatosis and inflammatory changes was similar. However, in the male group, the intensity of liver fibrosis was higher.

Conclusions

The tests helped to detect advanced liver fibrosis in patients who were diagnosed with liver steatosis in ultrasound examination. Non-invasive diagnostics of liver injury may be useful in screening to select groups of patients requiring liver biopsy, as well as in monitoring the course of the disease and assessment of the treatment effectiveness. Early detection of liver disease may improve the prognosis of these patients.
Cross-verification of simulated GEMS tropospheric ozone retrievals and ozonesonde measurements over Northeast Asia
Authors: Bak Juseon , Baek Kang-Hyeon , Kim Jae-Hwan , Liu Xiong , Kim Jhoon , Chance Kelly
Published: January 2019

Abstract. The Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer (GEMS) is scheduled to be launched in 2019 on board the GEO-KOMPSAT (GEOstationary KOrea Multi-Purpose SATellite)-2B, contributing as the Asian partner of the global geostationary constellation of air quality monitoring. To support this air quality satellite mission, we perform the cross-verification of simulated GEMS ozone profile retrievals based on the Optimal Estimation and ozonesonde measurements within the GEMS domain, covering from 5° S (Indonesia) to 45° N (south of the Russian border) and from 75° E to 145° E. The comparison between ozonesonde and GEMS shows a significant dependence on ozonesonde types. Ozonesonde data measured by Modified Brewer-Master (MB-M) at Trivandrum and New Delhi show inconsistent seasonal-variabilities in the tropospheric ozone, compared to latitudinally adjacent stations with Carbon Iodine (CI) and Electrochemical Condensation Cell (ECC). CI ozonesonde measurements are biased relative to ECC measurements by 2–4 DU; a better agreement with GEMS simulations is achieved with ECC measurements. ECC ozone data at Hanoi, Kuala Lump, and Singapore show abnormally worse agreements with simulated GEMS retrievals among ECC measurements. Therefore, ECC ozonesonde measurements at Hong Kong, Pohang, Naha, Sapporo, and Tsukuba are finally identified as an optimal reference. The accuracy of simulated GEMS retrievals is estimated to be ~ 5.0 % for both tropospheric and stratospheric column ozone with the precision of 15 % and 5 %, which meet the GEMS ozone requirements.
Zero to moderate methane emissions in a densely rooted, pristine Patagonian bog – biogeochemical controls as revealed from isotopic evidence
Authors: Münchberger Wiebke , Knorr Klaus-Holger , Blodau Christian , Pancotto Verónica A. , Kleinebecker Till
Published: January 2019

Abstract. Peatlands are significant global methane (CH4) sources, but processes
governing CH4 dynamics have been predominantly studied in the Northern
Hemisphere. Southern hemispheric and tropical bogs can be dominated by
cushion-forming vascular plants (e.g. Astelia pumila,
Donatia fascicularis). These cushion bogs are found in many (mostly
southern) parts of the world but could also serve as extreme examples for
densely rooted northern hemispheric bogs dominated by rushes and sedges. We
report highly variable summer CH4 emissions from different microforms in
a Patagonian cushion bog as determined by chamber measurements. Driving
biogeochemical processes were identified from pore water profiles and carbon
isotopic signatures. Intensive root activity throughout a rhizosphere
stretching over 2 m in depth accompanied by molecular oxygen release created
aerobic microsites in water-saturated peat, leading to a thorough CH4
oxidation (< 0.003 mmol L−1 pore water CH4, enriched
in
δ13C-CH4 by up to 10 ‰) and negligible
emissions (0.09±0.16 mmol CH4 m−2 d−1) from
Astelia lawns. In sparsely or even non-rooted peat below adjacent
pools pore water profile patterns similar to those obtained under Astelia
lawns, which emitted very small amounts of CH4 (0.23±0.25 mmol m−2 d−1), were found. Below the A. pumila rhizosphere pore
water concentrations increased sharply to 0.40±0.25 mmol CH4 L−1 and CH4 was predominantly produced by hydrogenotrophic
methanogenesis. A few Sphagnum lawns and – surprisingly – one lawn
dominated by cushion-forming D. fascicularis were found to be local
CH4 emission hotspots with up to 1.52±1.10 mmol CH4 m−2 d−1 presumably as root density and molecular oxygen release
dropped below a certain threshold. The spatial distribution of root
characteristics supposedly causing such a pronounced CH4 emission pattern
was evaluated on a conceptual level aiming to exemplify scenarios in densely
rooted bogs. We conclude that presence of cushion vegetation as a proxy for
negligible CH4 emissions from cushion bogs needs to be interpreted with
caution. Nevertheless, overall ecosystem CH4 emissions at our study site
were probably minute compared to bog ecosystems worldwide and widely
decoupled from environmental controls due to intensive root activity of
A. pumila, for example.
INTERACTIVE ONLINE VISUALIZATION OF COMPLEX 3D GEOMETRIES
Authors: Boutsi A.-M. , Ioannidis C. , Soile S.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. In the last decade 3D datasets of the Cultural Heritage field have become extremely rich and high detailed due to the evolution of the technologies they derive from. However, their online deployment, both for scientific and general public purposes is usually deficient in user interaction and multimedia integration. A single solution that efficiently addresses these issues is presented in this paper. The developed framework provides an interactive and lightweight visualization of high-resolution 3D models in a web browser. It is based on 3D Heritage Online Presenter (3DHOP) and Three.js library, implemented on top of WebGL API. 3DHOP capabilities are fully exploited and enhanced with new, high level functionalities. The approach is especially suited to complex geometry and it is adapted to archaeological and architectural environments. Thus, the multi-dimensional documentation of the archaeological site of Meteora, in central Greece is chosen as the case study. Various navigation paradigms are implemented and the data structure is enriched with the incorporation of multiple 3D model viewers. Furthermore, a metadata repository, comprises ortho-images, photographic documentation, video and text, is accessed straight forward through the inspection of the main 3D scene of Meteora by a system of interconnections.
REVERSE MODELING OF CULTURAL HERITAGE: PIPELINE AND BOTTLENECKS
Authors: Camagni F. , Colaceci S. , Russo M.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. The present work is suggested as a contribution to the debate on Reverse Modeling (RM) topic in the Cultural Heritage field. It wants to test the methodology, the limits and the bottlenecks of the RM pipeline in the architectural field, with particular attention to the geometric shapes reading and interpretation. The mathematical reconstruction of architectural models represents an overlaid result of anthropic and natural transformations framed inside a complex process of shape simplification and surface generation. This pipeline must be supported by a careful Heritage reading by means of architecture rules, both preserving the actual shape and the original intent of the building designer. The integration of these last two aspects make the process of RM applied to CH extremely complex. It involves a cognitive activity aimed at choosing on the one hand the best 3D survey technique to obtain reliable 3D data, on the other hand reaching a suitable architectural knowledge for achieving a plausible modeling result. The research presented describes a RM process applied to an ecclesiastical architecture, highlighting some key passages: an integrated survey approach to extract geometrical information, data analysis and generation of a mathematical 3D model, reliable from both a formal and cultural point of view.
FORENSIC ENGINEERING SURVEYS WITH UAV PHOTOGRAMMETRY AND LASER SCANNING TECHNIQUES
Authors: Cappelletti C. , Boniardi M. , Casaroli A. , De Gaetani C. I. , Passoni D. , Pinto L.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. This work aims at presenting the use of new technologies in the field of forensic engineering. In particular, the use of UAV photogrammetry and laser scanning is compared with the traditional methods of surveying an accident site. In this framework, surveys must be carried out promptly, executed in a short time and performed so that the greatest possible amount of information is collected with sufficient accuracy to avoid the possibility of neglecting details once that the scene is no longer preserved. The combination of modern surveying techniques such UAV photogrammetry and laser scanning can properly fulfill these requirements. An experimental test has been arranged and instruments, procedures, settings, practical limits and results have been evaluated and compared with respect to the usual way of performing the survey for forensic purposes. In particular, both qualitative and quantitative considerations are given, assessing the completeness of the reconstructed model, the statistical evaluation of the errors and the accuracy achieved.
PHOTOGRAMMETRIC SURVEY WITH FISHEYE LENS FOR THE CHARACTERIZATION OF THE LA SASSA CAVE
Authors: Alessandri L. , Baiocchi V. , Del Pizzo S. , Rolfo M. F. , Troisi S.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. The survey of ancient cave can generally be performed by traditional topographic methods that allow also its georeferencing in a global reference frame; some difficulties may arise when there are narrow tunnels that do not consent the use of a total station or a terrestrial laser scanner. In such cases a visual-based approach can be used to produce, both the followed path and the 3D model of the hypogeal environment. A prompt photogrammetric survey has been used to reconstruct the morphology of the La Sassa Cave, situated in the municipality of Sonnino (Latina), in the lower Lazio region. In this cave, a very large quantity of Pleistocene animal bones was found, together with several fragments of Copper Age human bones and Bronze Age impasto potsherds. The survey was carried out using a DSLR full frame camera Nikon D800E with a Nikkor 16 mm fisheye lens pre-calibrated. During the acquisition, several targets were measured in order to contain the deformations model. The photogrammetric model has been georeferenced using 3 GCPs positioned outside the cave entrance where a double frequency GNSS receiver has acquired data in static session mode.
THE INTEGRATED SURVEY OF NARROW SPACES AND UNDERGROUND ARCHITECTURE: THE CASE STUDY OF CAMPANA CAVES BAS-RELIEFS
Authors: Clini P. , Nespeca R. , Angeloni R. , Mammoli R.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. Italian Cultural Heritage is rich in fascinating Underground Heritage (UH) to be protected and preserved because of its fragility and historical importance. An accurate and high-resolution 3D model is essential to reach an appropriate level of knowledge to safeguard caves but there are several obstacles to face. Underground data acquisition and following elaborations are problematic due to environmental conditions such as lack of homogeneous light sources, highly absorbing and unstable surfaces, narrow spaces and complex geometry. For these reasons, the integration of different techniques is mandatory to achieve a valid final product that could be an important basis for consolidation, preservation and valorization of the UH. In this paper, an integrated survey method is tested for a realistic digital reconstruction of hypogeal spaces. In addition to outputs for experts of conservation, the creation of multimedia products for a wider audience of non-professionals users is investigated as a way to preserve UH from decay. Thanks to VR, visitors virtually walk through the underground galleries observing and interacting, making accessible also fragile environments with forbidden access due to preservation policies.
AS-BUILT RELIABILITY IN ARCHITECTURAL HBIM MODELING
Authors: Maiezza P.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. The As-Built Model cannot be considered as a simple three-dimensional mould of the studied reality but as a process of analysis, synthesis and communication of architectural complexity including, in addition to geometric-dimensional aspects, also the historical, aesthetic and architectural features of the building. Consequently, the transparency and reliability issues of the digital visualization constitutes, as well as for the field of archaeology, a matter of primary importance in the modelling of cultural heritage. The increasing interest of scholars in the application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to historical buildings has renewed the problems related to the reliability of the As-built, related not only to the relationship between the model and the measure, but also to the other information, for example the constructive technologies. Based on the survey and modelling of some case studies, the paper's aim is to define a reference standard for the reliability declaration of the As-Built HBIM models, which considers both the geometric and information aspects.
POINT CLOUD SEGMENTATION AND SEMANTIC ANNOTATION AIDED BY GIS DATA FOR HERITAGE COMPLEXES
Authors: Murtiyoso A. , Grussenmeyer P.
Published: January 2019

Abstract. Point cloud segmentation is an important first step in categorising a raw point cloud data. This step is necessary in order to better manage the data and generate other derivative products, e.g. 3D GIS or HBIM. The idea presented in this paper involves the use of 2D GIS to help in the segmentation, classification, as well as (early) semantic annotation of the point cloud. This derives from the fact that in the case of heritage complex sites, often times the site has been previously documented in a 2D GIS often with attributes and entities. We used this 2D data to help in the segmentation of a 3D point cloud, with the added benefit of automatic extraction and annotation of the related semantic information directly to the segmented clusters. Results show that the developed algorithm performs well with TLS data of spread out heritage sites, with a median success rate of 93% and an average rate of 86%. While manual intervention is still inevitable in some parts of the workflow (e.g. creation of the base shapefiles and choice of object segmentation order), the developed algorithm has shown to significantly reduce overall processing time and resources required in terms of segmentation and semantic annotation of a point cloud in the case of heritage complexes.