bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Risk Perception of Zika Virus Infection Among Vulnerable Women in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Miranda Elaine , Santos-Pinto Claudia , Antunes-de-Lima Clarice , Osorio-de-Castro Claudia 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:The Zika virus (ZIKV) infection outbreak in Brazil surged in late 2014, peaking in 2015. The most affected region was the northeast, but Rio de Janeiro was especially affected in poor, vulnerable, low-income communities with inadequate sanitation and water. Most cases of the ZIKV-related neurologic syndrome, microcephaly, were detected among newborns coming from this environment.Aim:To identify risk perception and consequences of ZIKV infection for pregnant women in a vulnerable community in Rio de Janeiro.Methods:Forty women who frequented a primary health care center (PHC) in a ZIKV-prone area of Rio de Janeiro were interviewed based on an open-ended questionnaire on ZIKV infection and risk. No censorship regarding age or other demographic characteristics was applied. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed according to analytical categories stemming from the literature and prior work. Preliminary analysis focused on risks for pregnant women and other groups.Results:Absolute number of responses reflect density of issues within all responses. Age range was 15-60 years. Several women identified microcephaly as a consequence of ZIKV infection for newborns, but many respondents did not cite any health problem associated with ZIKA in pregnancy. Although some cited pregnant women and children as most vulnerable, people living in or near insalubrious environments, such as the elderly, and those with low immunity were more cited. Information was mostly obtained from health professionals and television. Many confused origin and symptoms of ZIKV infection with other arbovirus infections.Discussion:This vulnerable group of women, who continuously attend a PHC in the area, have had community experience with the disease and its consequences, showed surprisingly little knowledge as to the risks of ZIKV infection for pregnant women. Results may indicate that the health system has still not achieved adequate risk communication for at-risk women for ZIKV infection in Rio de Janeiro.
Learning Lessons during Recovery from Disasters
Authors: Khan Yasmin , Tracey Shannon , Lacarte Sara , Therrien Marie-Christine , Sikora Christopher 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:The Fort McMurray Alberta wildfire was one of Canada’s largest natural disasters in history, burning 589,995 hectares of land until being controlled on July 5, 2016. In responding to the fire, Alberta Health Services (AHS) prompted a province-wide coordinated response. Through a combination of pre-emptive strategies and responsive activities, the AHS response has been considered a success. Underlying the successful response is the collective experiences and contextual knowledge of AHS staff members acquired from past events. While the frequency and severity of risks associated with extreme weather and climate change are increasing worldwide, there is a persistent knowledge gap in the evidence-base informing public health emergency preparedness. It is imperative that lessons learned from past events inform future preparedness activities. Learning lessons is a systematic implementation process that can be used to inform future responses and best practices that are transferable to similar situations.Aim:To describe strategies employed and challenges encountered during recovery after the Alberta wildfires.Methods:A single-case study approach was employed to understand the AHS method to “learning lessons,” and the process involved in translating lessons into actionable goals. Semi-structured interviews with senior leaders (n=11) were conducted and internal documents were obtained.Results:The analysis revealed a strategic learning process, including debriefs, staff surveys, interviews, and member validity checking. The implementation process used to translate the lessons identified included a project management framework, evaluation techniques, and the utilization of tacit and explicit knowledge. Key challenges for implementation involve clarification of processes, leadership commitment, resource and time constraints, staff turn-over, and measuring outcomes.Discussion:Translating the lessons from the Alberta wildfires is crucial for enhancing preparedness, and exploratory research in this area can contribute to building a program of research in evaluation during disaster recovery.
Preparedness for a Severe Rainfall: The Importance of a Timeline
Authors: Kawase Tetsunori , Nakayama Shinichi , Kai Soichiro , Kikuta Shota , Ukai Takashi 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:For recent years, we often hear the words, “never experienced before” on a weather forecast in Japan.Aim:To evaluate our response to “Heisei 30-year July heavy rain” in the Hyogo Emergency Medical Operations Center.Methods:Review our actions taken and exchanges of views with local government representatives in a time-related manner compared with public announcements of evacuation/sheltering warning.Results:A specialized warning of heavy rain was announced at 10:50 PM on Friday by the local meteorological observatory. At 11:50 PM, the emergency management headquarters of prefectural medical response was established in the hospital, but a connection could not be established to 10 regional health centers for the weekend. Water levels of some rivers were increasing nearly to flood levels, and an evacuation order was announced to hundreds of thousands of people. This situation continued for a few days throughout many regions. The information of flood or landslide probability was continuously monitored, but an attempt was made to decide the timing of cancellations of standby.Discussion:An ordinary response to disaster depends on a clear turning point, such as the occurrence time. In heavy rainfall, there are two issues. One is about actions to prevent disaster and another is a recognition of geographic points or surface. Many critiques to the response focus on the judgments and actions for prevention before a critical event. Lessons learned included the importance of preventive actions along with a timeline and the judgment of restoration.
The Effect of Natural Disasters on Cancer Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Man Ralph Xiu-gee , Lack David , Wyatt Charlotte , Murray Virginia 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:As the incidence of cancer and the frequency of extreme weather events rise, disaster mitigation is becoming increasingly relevant to oncology care.Aim:To investigate the effect of natural disasters on cancer care and the associated health effects on patients with cancer through the means of a systematic review.Methods:Between database inception and November 12, 2016, Embase, ScienceDirect, MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CINAHL were searched for articles. Those identifying the effect of natural disasters on oncology services, or the associated health implications for patients with cancer, were included. Only articles published in English were included. Data extraction was done by two authors independently and then verified by all authors. The effects of disaster events on oncology services, survival outcomes, and psychological issues were assessed.Results:Natural disasters cause substantial interruption to the provision of oncology care. Of the 4,593 studies identified, only 85 articles met all the eligibility criteria. Damage to infrastructure, communication systems, medication, and medical record losses substantially disrupt oncology care. The effect of extreme weather events on survival outcomes is limited to only a small number of studies, often with inadequate follow-up periods.Discussion:To the best the authors’ knowledge, this is the first systematic review to assess the existing evidence base on the health effects of natural disaster events on cancer care. Disaster planning must begin to take into consideration patients with cancer.
Effect of Tornado Outbreaks on Morbidity and Mortality in Texas
Authors: Swienton A. , Goldberg Daniel , Hammond Tracy , Klein Andrew , Horney Jennifer 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:In the United States, tornadoes are the third leading cause of fatalities from natural disasters1. To aid prevention and mitigation of tornado-related morbidity and mortality, improvement in standardizing tornado specific threat analysis terminology was assessed. The largest number of tornado-related fatalities has occurred in the state of Texas for over a hundred years. The occurrence of tornadic clusters or “outbreaks” has not been formally standardized. The concept of “tornado outbreaks” is better defined and its role in fatality mitigation is addressed in this Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved study.Aim:To understand the role of “tornado outbreaks” related clusters in Texas in relationship to morbidity and mortality.Methods:This IRB approved (IRB2017- 0507) research study utilized GIS tools and statistical analysis of historical data to examine the relationship between tornado severity (based on the Fujita Scale), the number of tornadoes, and the trends in morbidity and mortality. This study was funded in part from The National Science Foundation grant (NSF Grant #1560106) in support of the CyberHealthGIS Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU).Results:A statistically significant difference was demonstrated between the severity of a tornado and related morbidity and mortality during “tornado outbreaks” in Texas during a defined 30-year period.Discussion:Understanding the role and discerning the impacts of “tornado outbreaks” as related to tornado severity has critical implications to disaster preparedness. Applications of this conclusion may improve shelter planning/preparation, timely warning, and educating the at-risk public. Subsequently, examining the likelihood and improved descriptions of “tornado outbreaks” may aid in reducing the number of tornado-related injuries and fatalities nationally.
The Pediatric Disaster Mental Health Intervention: Meeting the Primary Care Special Needs of Children in the Aftermath of Disasters
Authors: Cooper Arthur , Frogel Michael , Foltin George 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:Effects of a disaster on a community’s mental health can persist after the physical effects of the event have passed. The pediatric population is often overrepresented in disasters and prone to serious mental health disorders based on their age and parental/community response. Pediatric primary healthcare providers require the psychosocial skills necessary to work in disaster zones and to care for children in disasters.Aim:Pediatric Disaster Mental Health Intervention (PDMHI) was initially developed in response to Superstorm Sandy’s impact on children and their families in New York City. The objective was to develop training for primary care providers in pediatric disaster mental healthcare and to study its impact on the trainees.Methods:A faculty of experts in pediatric mental health, psychiatry, psychology, and disaster preparedness was convened to develop curriculum. The faculty developed a four-hour intervention to equip healthcare providers with the skills and knowledge necessary to care for pediatric patients with mental health problems stemming from a disaster via evaluation, triage, intervention, and referral.Results:Three PDMHI training sessions were held. A total of 67 providers were trained. Of these, there were 31 pediatricians, 18 nurses, 8 social workers, 4 psychologists, 2 psychiatrists, and 4 others. Pre- and post-tests measured knowledge before and impact 3 months post-intervention. 62.5% of responding primary care providers made changes to their practice. 92% felt better equipped to identify, treat, and refer patients. 81% would be willing to work in a disaster zone and felt prepared to treat patients with disaster mental health issues.Discussion:PDMHI covers psychosocial responses to disasters from normal to mental health disorders. Participants gained tools for managing pediatric mental health issues in primary care. Study data showed an increase in the participants perceived knowledge and skills about pediatric disaster mental health, and willingness to participate in future disasters.
Review of Disaster and Emergency Preparedness Among Summer Camps in the United States: Updates and Challenges
Authors: Hashikawa Andrew , Bradin Stuart , Ambrose Michael 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:More than 14 million children in the United States attend summer camps yearly, including many special medical needs children. Summer camps are at risk for multiple pediatric casualties during a disaster. The American Camp Association, in the 2017 critical issues report, identified emergency preparedness as the top critical health and safety issue. Camps, compared to school-based settings, face unique challenges when planning for disasters, but research has been challenging because of the lack of access to camp leadership and data.Aim:Provide a targeted up-to-date synopsis on the current state of disaster preparedness and ongoing collaborative research and technology interventions for improving preparedness among summer camps.Methods:Researchers partnered with a national health records system (CampDoc.com) and American Academy of Pediatrics disaster experts to review results from a national camp survey. Main themes were identified to assess gaps and develop strategies for improving disaster preparedness.Results:169 camps responses were received from national camp leadership. A substantial proportion of camps were missing 4 critical areas of disaster planning: 1) Most lacked online emergency plans (53%), methods to communicate information to parents (25%), or strategies to identify children for evacuation/reunification (40%); 2) Disaster plans failed to account for special/medical needs children (38%); 3) Staff training rates were low for weather (58%), evacuation (46%), and lockdown (36%); 4) Most camps (75%) did not plan with disaster organizations.Discussion:Collaboration with industry and disaster experts will be key to address the gaps identified. Current research and interventions include the recent release of a communication alert tool allowing camps to send mass text emergency notifications. Additionally, a recent pilot to incorporate disaster plans into the electronic health records platform emphasizing communication, evacuation, and identification of local experts has begun. Efforts to develop a unified disaster tool kit for summer camps remains a challenge.
Impact of Road Safety Laws in Colombia on Road Traffic Collision Fatalities and Injuries
Authors: Argote Killiam A. , Molloy Michael S , Hart Alexander , Voskanyan Amalia , Sarin Ritu R , Ciottone Gregory R 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:Road traffic collisions (RTC) are the leading cause of preventable death among those aged 15–29 years worldwide. More than 1.2 million lives are lost each year on roads. Ninety percent of these deaths take place in low- and middle-income countries. The General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) proclaimed the period from 2011-2020 the “Decade of Action for Road Safety,” with the objective of stabilizing and reducing the number of deaths by 50% worldwide. In this context, the government of Colombia established the National Road Safety Plan (PNSV) for the period 2011–2021 with the objective of reducing the number of fatalities by 26%. However, the effectiveness of road safety policies in Colombia is still unknown.Aim:To evaluate the effect of road safety laws on the incidence of RTC, deaths, and injuries in Colombia.Methods:RTC data and fatality numbers for the time period of January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2017, were collated from official Colombian governmental publications and analyzed for reductions and trends related to the introduction of new road safety legislation.Results:Data analysis are expected to be completed by January 2019.Discussion:RTC remains the leading preventable cause of death in Colombia despite the PNSV. Data is being mined to determine the trends of these rates of crashes and fatalities, and their relation to the introduction of national traffic laws. Overall, while the absolute numbers of RTC and deaths have been increasing, the rate of RTC per 10,000 cars has been decreasing. This suggests that although the goals of the PNSV may not be realized, some of the laws emanating from it may be beneficial, but warrant further detailed analysis.
Supporting and Accompanying Young People After the Lac-Mégantic Train Derailment (Quebec, Canada)
Authors: Généreux Mélissa , Maillet Marie-Claude , Nault-Horvath Elise , Stewart Cindy 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:In July 2013, a train transporting oil derailed and exploded in Lac-Mégantic, causing major human, environmental, and economic impacts. A community-based survey of people aged 10-25, conducted in 2017, revealed that many young people suffer in silence and report feeling isolated. These observations led to the conclusion that we must make room for young people, and that opportunities for engagement and participation must be provided within the community.Aim:The Public Health Direction of Estrie aimed to identify strategies to promote health and wellbeing for young people living in and around Lac-Mégantic.Methods:A collective reflection half-day was hosted with sixty key stakeholders (school board, other education institutions, health and social services, community sector, municipal/political sector, parents, youth). Throughout the event, participants were invited to build on and learn from accomplishments and experiential knowledge, and develop a common vision of the solutions to be pursued or implemented. All qualitative data sources (verbal and written data from large- and sub-group activities) were analyzed through a content analysis.Results:Several themes (i.e. potential solutions) emerged from the analysis: common venue, diversified activities, communication, collaboration, involvement, support for at-risk youth, intergenerational component, etc. Participants agreed on four priorities for action: 1) creating a gathering place, 2) establishing a Youth Committee, 3) supporting adults working with youth, and 4) fostering a better flow of information.Discussion:Several positive outcomes of the collective reflection half-day were observed, including the mobilization of the participants who greatly appreciated the event, and many promising ideas launched by stakeholders. A social worker is now fully dedicated to supporting youth wellbeing and engagement in Lac-Mégantic. A Youth Committee has been established and projects by and for youth are being implemented. Bottom-up approaches to identify solutions to complex situations are not only effective but also respectful of the local culture.
Towards Practical Guidelines for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support after Emergencies in the Western Pacific Region
Authors: Te Brake Hans , Reiffers Relinde , Steen Charlie , Dückers Michel 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:The Western Pacific Region, comprised of 37 diverse countries and areas, is one of the world’s areas most prone to be affected by disaster. Seven of the top ten countries most at risk of a natural disaster are in this region. The Regional Agenda for Implementing the Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020 in the Western Pacific identifies mental health in disasters and emergencies as a priority area and calls for a social movement for action on mental health and well-being. To increase understanding of and need for mental health and psychosocial support in emergency situations, regional guidelines are necessary. It is unclear to what degree international guidelines are applicable in this region.Aim:To synthesize the contents of available evidence-based guidelines and assess their potential to address the mental health and psychosocial needs of people in emergency settings in the Western Pacific Region.Methods:A systematic literature review of existing guidelines for mental health and psychosocial support in disasters and emergencies was conducted. Using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument, the quality of each guideline was determined covering the following: (1.) scope and purpose, (2.) stakeholder involvement, (3.) rigor of development, (4.) clarity of presentation, (5.) applicability, and (6.) editorial independence.Results:The results provide an overview of the quality, number, and specificity of available guidelines. A framework was developed to categorize these guidelines on each stage of the disaster management cycle (prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery) while considering their guidance regarding coordination, monitoring, communication, human resources, and connection with regular health services.Discussion:The framework and its implications for further research and development are presented at the conference. We will specifically focus on the question, “What is needed to move from a reactive to a more proactive stance in policy and practice?”
Public Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) of Health: Active Participation of Health Practitioners in Urban Radio in a Low Resource Setting
Authors: Bonney Joseph , Osei-Tutu Lawrence , Selormey Richard , Hammond Bernard , Bonsu Patricia 
Published: May 2019

Introduction:Over the last two decades, Frequency Modulation (FM) radio has been established as the only form of sound broadcasting in Ghana. Radio is the most accessible of mass media. There are more than 40 operational radio stations in the Ashanti region of Ghana. Most stations are commercial, broadcasting in the local language (Asante-Twi). Many urban radio health slots discuss various diseases and their treatments mainly for the benefit of patients. Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) practitioners who are able to pay for airtime dominate as ‘experts’ in most of these shows.Methods:We identified an IEC gap regarding policies governing healthcare delivery, healthcare financing, training, ethics and research, and environmental issues. In June 2015, orthodox medical practitioners collaborated with a private, local, English-speaking radio station to produce and host a weekly health show whose content was aimed at holistically discussing health from the viewpoint of practitioners, clients, policy makers, administrators, and financiers in a simplified language for the general public, including healthcare trainees.Discussion:The show dubbed “Staying Alive” first aired on Tuesday, July 7, 2015, at 20:00 GMT and continues to air to date, appealing to a wide range of active listeners. “Staying Alive” to the best of our knowledge remains the only show with a holistic approach to health. Over the last 23 months, we have experienced challenges in sustaining sponsorship to fund the cost of production and airtime for the show, and the cost of effectively assessing the public health impact of the show. Orthodox medical practitioners can employ mass radio as an effective tool for advocacy, information dissemination, and education of clients or health trainees in low or middle-income urban settings through effective collaboration with media stations.