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BackgroundCameroon is amongst the worst affected countries by road traffic injuries with an estimated 1443 disability-adjusted life years per 100,000 population. There have been very limited reports on the crucial prehospital response to road traffic injuries in Cameroon. This study aimed to identify prehospital factors associated with RTI mortality in Cameroon.MethodsWe included patients enrolled between June 2022 and March 2023 in the Cameroon Trauma Registry. Information about prehospital factors and demographic data was obtained from patients or their proxies. We examined the association of prehospital care factors like care at the crash scene and type of transportation during crash with final patient outcome. We used Chi-squared test to investigate the association between selected independent variables and mortality. A multivariable logistic regression model was built to identify independent predictors of dying from an RTI.ResultsRTIs constituted 69.5% (n = 3203) of all injuries in the Cameroon Trauma Registry. Only 20.7% (n = 102) of 4 + wheel vehicle occupants had seatbelts on and just 2.7% (n = 53) of motorcycle riders were wearing helmets during the collision. Only 4.9% (n = 156) of patients received any form of scene care. In-hospital mortality was 4.3% (n = 139) and was associated with male sex (AOR = 1.7, 95%CI = 1.08-2.80), crashing on a motorcycle (AOR = 2.08, 95%CI = 1.1-3.67) and scene care (AOR = 0.25, 95%CI = 0.04-0.80).ConclusionsReceiving any type of care at the scene such as bleeding control or being placed in the recovery position by bystanders is associated with improved survival. Improving on existing informal prehospital care responses should be a priority in Cameroon.

In recent years, the landscape of disasters, conflicts and terror events has become more frequent and complex. Climate change, armed conflicts, terrorism, disinformation, cyber‐attacks, inequality and pandemics now present significant challenges to humanity. Emergency physicians today are likely to encounter ideologically motivated violent extremism or terrorist actions by radicalised lone actors. Terror medicine, distinct from disaster medicine, addresses the unique and severe injuries caused by terrorist incidents, including explosions, gunshots and chemical agents. The chaotic aftermath of such attacks demands rapid triage, prioritisation and strict adherence to scene safety protocols. Moreover, terrorist events have profound psychological impacts on victims and responders alike. Understanding the broader public health implications of these attacks is crucial for emergency physicians to enhance community safety and resilience. Terror medicine also brings unique ethical and legal challenges, such as patient confidentiality, mandatory reporting and mass casualty management. Effective responses to terror incidents necessitate close collaboration between healthcare providers and law enforcement. Familiarity with terror medicine principles fosters better communication and coordination, ultimately improving response efficiency and patient outcomes. This review offers a comprehensive approach to understanding terror medicine, defining the concept of 'terror', its significance for emergency physicians, and the known health impacts on patients, healthcare workers and responders. By delving into these aspects, the review aims to equip medical professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of terror‐related emergencies effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we address the practical needs for the rapid processing and application of aerial photogrammetry remote sensing images, proposing a method based on high-performance computing technology to achieve the real-time, dynamic orthorectified visualization of aerial remote sensing images. This method differs from traditional orthorectification processing and application workflows, utilizing high-performance parallel computing capabilities to directly achieve orthorectification based on raw aerial images. In this paper, we also compare and analyze four different real-time orthorectified visualization schemes to meet various application needs, evaluating the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method. Finally, experimental results with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flight image data indicate that this method is feasible, with real-time computational results meeting practical application requirements in terms of effect and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, or wars occur, cellular communication networks often sustain significant damage or become impaired. In these critical situations, first responders must coordinate with other rescue teams to communicate essential information to central command and survivors. To address this challenge, we have developed a reliable and rapidly deployable wireless ad hoc system for post-disaster management using Data Distribution Service (DDS) middleware, specifically RTI-DDS, named R-RDSP. The R-RDSP further enhances these metrics, achieving a 14.5% improvement in end-to-end delay and a 20.24% improvement in round-trip delay over the RDSP scheme. The R-RDSP system consists of three main modules: client, relay, and server. Each module connects to others via an ad hoc network, ensuring direct device-to-device communication without relying on existing infrastructure. The client module collects and sends the victim's location and emergency messages. The relay modules forward these messages across the ad hoc networks, ensuring minimal delay and high reliability. Finally, the server module receives the messages, processes them, and coordinates the response. Leveraging RTI-DDS for reliable message distribution, the system demonstrates robust performance even under challenging network conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Basic Life Support (BLS) is an essential set of emergency procedures designed to stabilize individuals facing life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and choking. This study aims to assess the level of awareness, understanding, and practical knowledge of BLS among adults in New Delhi, identifying key gaps and proposing strategies to enhance public preparedness for emergencies. Materials & Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted over five months (January 2024 to May 2024) across various districts in New Delhi. The study targeted adults aged 18 and above who had resided in the city for at least 12 months. A sample size of 400 participants was selected using a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising 25 multiple-choice questions that assessed knowledge of CPR steps, AED usage, and scenario-based BLS interventions. Responses were gathered via both digital (Google Forms) and physical questionnaires, and the data were analyzed using Epi Info V7 software. Results: The study revealed that 76.8% of participants had heard of BLS, but only 54.8% knew the correct sequence of steps involved. Knowledge of specific CPR techniques varied, with 44.3% aware of the correct chest compression-to-breath ratio and 42.0% knowing the recommended compression depth. Only 40.3% had received training on AED usage, and scenario-specific knowledge, such as recognizing heart attack symptoms (49.5%) and performing BLS on a choking victim (45.5%), was also limited. Overall, 30.8% of participants demonstrated a "Fair" understanding of BLS, while 21.8% had "Poor" knowledge. Conclusion: The findings highlight significant gaps in the public's knowledge of BLS in New Delhi, particularly in areas critical for effective emergency response. The study underscores the need for targeted educational initiatives and practical training programs to improve BLS proficiency across the city's diverse socio-demographic groups. Enhancing BLS awareness and accessibility to training resources could substantially improve community-level preparedness and save lives in emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessibility between fire hydrants and buildings is paramount in emergency response, significantly influencing the efficiency and effectiveness of firefighting operations in the event of an incident. However, assessing this relationship within a geographic information system (GIS) framework presents challenges on two fronts. Obtaining the path avoiding building and parcel obstructions to hydrants is not trivial. Further, determining the furthest extent around a building exterior from hydrants is complicated, yet it is critically important given the spatial limitations of equipment reach. To assess furthest extent, an analytical framework is introduced based on the Euclidean shortest path problem. The proposed approach offers a comprehensive, automated GIS‐based methodology tailored to evaluate the dynamic relationship between hydrants and buildings. The developed methods are able to accurately and precisely identify the furthest point around a building structure from hydrant, facilitating risk assessment as well as fire code compliance. This enables a comprehensive evaluation of potential loss and structure vulnerability at property, street, neighborhood, and regional levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the Variable Message Signs (VMS) mounted over the cab of emergency vehicles as a safety countermeasure to protect roadside incident and service personnel. The research team collaborated with the Alabama Department of Transportation's Safety Service Patrol (SSP) program, specifically the Alabama Service Assistance Patrol (ASAP) in the West Central Alabama region, to collect video data from their service vehicles. Deep learning techniques were employed to detect vehicles in the recorded videos. A total of 11,338 passing vehicles were detected in 135,946 frames of video footage, and their trajectories were extracted for analysis. The study focused on examining the behaviors and movements of passing vehicles, including their speed and lane change behaviors, and developed statistical models to systematically investigate the impact of VMS on these behaviors. Random intercept models were utilized to account for unobserved factors associated with different stop locations. The modeling results revealed significant relationships between the use of VMS and the behaviors of passing motorists. When the VMS was active, drivers were more likely to change lanes and reduce their speed compared to situations where the VMS was not active. The odds of a vehicle changing lanes were found to be 95% higher when the VMS was in use. These findings suggest that the utilization of VMS can have a positive impact on traffic, particularly for passenger vehicles. The study outcomes imply that the use of VMS could be an effective countermeasure in protecting roadside incidents and ensuring the safety of service personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Takeaways: While sample collection to monitor drinking water quality is a routine practice, water utilities must be prepared to address emergencies stemming from contamination. Having a plan for collecting and analyzing water samples during emergency response or other unusual circumstances better ensures actionable results. Guidance is available to help laboratories prepare to support a utility's emergency response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injuries from car accidents, falls, disasters, and violence cause over five million deaths annually, with millions more affected worldwide. Despite the critical role of immediate first aid in mitigating injury severity and preventing death, many individuals lack basic first aid knowledge. This paper proposes the integration of first aid courses across educational stages, from primary to high school, to address this gap. By equipping students with essential life-saving skills, this approach aims to foster a culture of health awareness and resilience. Evidence supports the effectiveness of early first aid education in enhancing confidence, improving emergency outcomes, reducing healthcare system strain, and promoting psychological preparedness. Globally endorsed by organizations such as the WHO and IFRC, integrating first aid into the educational curriculum can prepare individuals to act confidently and appropriately in emergencies, contributing to safer communities and better health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: US nursing homes were ground zero for COVID-19 and nursing home leaders faced multiple challenges to keep residents and staff safe. Understanding the leader’s role and their use of external resources to rapidly respond to the pandemic is important to better prepare for the next infectious disease outbreak emergency. The purpose of this study is to describe Missouri nursing home leaders’ use of external resources to manage challenges encountered during the pandemic. Methods: This qualitative descriptive study uses data from semi-structured interviews conducted with leaders from 24 Midwestern nursing homes between March 2022 and March 2023. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Dedoose software. Directed content analysis, guided by Donabedian’s Structure, Process, Outcome framework, was used for analysis. Interviews were conducted as part of a larger mixed-methods study focused on developing knowledge and recommendations to improve US nursing homes’ capacity to respond to infectious disease outbreaks. Results: Forty-three interviews were conducted across the 24 homes. Participants included administrators (n = 24), nurse leaders (n = 19), and infection preventionists (n = 16). Six sub-categories of external resources/support were used by leaders to manage challenges during the pandemic:1) corporate support and communications, 2) statewide resources, 3) community-based resources, 4) health care coalitions focused on emergency response planning, 5) existing affiliations with local organizations i.e., hospitals, and 6) community members and families. Corporate support was a primary resource; however, it was limited to chain-based homes. Leaders from standalone homes seemed most reliant on statewide agencies, existing affiliations, and other community-based resources due to their lack of corporate connections. Health care coalitions were few, but when available, helped nursing homes prepare for the pandemic onset. Family and community members were vital despite being off-site from nursing homes at the pandemic onset. Conclusion: Leaders played a pivotal role in accessing and using external resources to manage challenges during the pandemic. Statewide and community-based agencies and existing affiliations were particularly critical for standalone homes who otherwise had little to no means of support. Federal, state and local agencies must consider opportunities to build multi-agency regional collaborations, local health care coalitions and community-based partnerships that include nursing homes as member. Finally, community members and family were important in providing support, thus closing visitation is a double-edged sword that needs careful, future consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has increasingly impacted developing and underdeveloped nations, with Bangladesh's coastal areas experiencing significant effects such as storm surges, salinity, cyclones, and droughts. These regions, heavily reliant on agriculture, face economic challenges exacerbated by climatic events, making adaptation to climate change a critical concern for coastal inhabitants. This study aims to understand the obstacles and adaptive mechanisms employed by the Munda indigenous people in southeastern coastal Bangladesh to protect their livelihoods. Employing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including focus group discussions (FGDs) and thematic analyses, we assessed the community's challenges and adaptation strategies. FGDs revealed that public life is frequently disrupted, salinity poses a major threat to agriculture and drinking water, and the cropping pattern, fish production, livestock, infrastructure, industry, biodiversity, health, and human settlement are adversely affected. Notably, there is a significant lack of adequate healthcare. Quantitative analysis using the χ2 test showed that 33.2% of participants believe climate change affects their happiness, 85.1% stored 72 h of water and food, and 59.3% had hygiene and sanitation supplies. This research underscores the necessity of adaptive measures such as rainwater harvesting, organic fertilizer usage, community disaster preparedness education, effective communication systems, and social security implementation to mitigate climate change's adverse effects. The findings offer valuable insights for the government, nongovermental organizations (NGOs), policymakers, civil society, and stakeholders in developing suitable climate adaptation strategies to ensure sustainable livelihoods in coastal Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a crucial life-saving procedure for managing cardiac arrest, involving chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain circulatory flow and oxygenation. Despite its importance, public awareness and proficiency in CPR are alarmingly low globally, including in Jammu & Kashmir. This study aims to evaluate CPR awareness and preparedness among the general public in Jammu & Kashmir, identifying gaps and informing targeted educational interventions. Material & Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted from January 2024 to March 2024 in Jammu & Kashmir. The study targeted adults aged 18 and above who had been residents for at least 12 months. A sample size of 400 adults was determined using a 95% confidence level and a 5% error margin. Data were collected using a pre-tested Google Form questionnaire that included socio-demographic information and 20 structured questions on CPR knowledge. The data were analyzed using Epi Info V7 Software, with results presented in frequencies and percentages. Results: The study revealed a balanced age distribution among participants, with a slight male predominance (55.3%). Educationally, 39.8% were graduates, and 15.3% had postgraduate or higher qualifications. Only 10.3% of respondents achieved a 'Very Good' CPR knowledge score, while 39.8% had 'Fair' knowledge, and 24.8% were classified as 'Poor.' Younger participants (18-30 years) and those with higher education levels had significantly better CPR knowledge. Gender, marital status and employment status also influenced CPR knowledge levels. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant gap in CPR awareness and proficiency among the residents of Jammu & Kashmir. Socio-demographic factors play a critical role in influencing CPR knowledge levels. There is an urgent need for targeted, culturally sensitive educational interventions, including community-based training programs, leveraging digital platforms, and incorporating CPR education into school and workplace curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban waterlogging is one of the major "diseases" faced by cities, posing a great challenge to the healthy and sustainable development of cities. The traditional geographic knowledge graph struggles to capture dynamic changes in urban waterlogging over time. Therefore, the objective of this study is to analyze the time, events, properties, geographic objects, and activities associated with urban waterlogging emergency responses from the geographic spatial and temporal processes perspective and to construct an urban waterlogging emergency knowledge graph by combining top-down and bottom-up approaches. We propose a conceptual model of urban waterlogging emergency response ontology based on spatiotemporal processes by analyzing the basic laws and influencing factors of urban waterlogging occurrence and development. Secondly, we describe the construction process of the urban waterlogging emergency response knowledge graph from knowledge extraction, knowledge fusion, and knowledge storage. Finally, the knowledge graph was visualized using 159 urban waterlogging events in China from 2020–2022, with a quality assessment indicating 81% correctness, 65.5% completeness, and 95% data conciseness. The results show that this method can effectively express the spatiotemporal process of an urban waterlogging emergency response and can provide a reference for the spatiotemporal modeling of the knowledge graph. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To map the commonly used quantitative blood loss measurement methods in clinical practice and provide a solid foundation for future studies. Design and Method: This study adhered to the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses extension for scoping reviews. We conducted a literature search using five databases to retrieve articles published between January 2012 and September 2022. The search was repeated on 29 February 2024. Data extraction and verification were carried out by two independent researchers using a self‐designed data extraction form. Results: Ultimately, 26 studies published between 2012 and 2024 were considered eligible for inclusion. Six categories of methods were identified from the 26 articles. Among the included studies, only two involved randomized controlled trials, with the majority being observational studies. The World Health Organization (2012) version of the postpartum haemorrhage diagnostic criteria was predominantly used in most studies. Gravimetric and volumetric methods emerged as the most commonly used methods for quantifying postpartum haemorrhages. The timing of blood collection was inconsistent among the included studies. Only 12 studies mentioned measures for the management of amniotic fluid. Conclusions: This scoping review supports the replacement of the visual estimation of blood loss with quantitative assessment methods. Supporting a specific assessment approach is not feasible due to the variability of the study. Future research should focus on establishing the best practices for specific quantitative methods to standardize the management of postpartum haemorrhage and reduce the incidence of postpartum haemorrhage‐related adverse outcomes. Relevance to Clinical Practice: Healthcare professionals need to acknowledge the low accuracy of visual estimation methods and implement quantitative methods to assess postpartum blood loss. Given the limitations inherent in each assessment method, quantification of blood loss should be combined with assessment of maternal vital signs, physiologic indicators and other factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the receiving terminal of liquefied natural gas (LNG), the efficient emergency response of the floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) is crucial to ensure the safety of LNG transportation at sea. However, few existing literature study the risk issues of FSRUs during emergency operations. In order to improve the emergency response capability of FSRU, this study proposes an innovative assessment method to identify hazards, quantify and rank the risks associated with emergency response and disposal operations of FSRU accidents. Firstly, a comprehensive index hierarchy system applicable to human, equipment, environment, and management aspects of emergency response and disposal operations of FSRU accident is established through an extensive literature review, analysis of accident reports, and expert judgments. Secondly, based on the concept of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Numbers, the Intuitionistic Fuzzy Hybrid Weighted Euclidean Distance (IFHWED) operator is used to enhance the conventional FMEA approach. This method considers the varying levels of expert confidence and integrates subjective and objective weights of risk influential factors (RIFs), and the efficacy is validated through sensitivity analysis. Finally, a comprehensive evaluation model employing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation algorithms is used to aggregate the risk values of RIFs. The findings of this study offer decision-makers insights into risks during emergency operation, provide valuable guiding strategies for FSRU accident management, and improve the capability for emergencies at sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current literature mainly uses hub capacity or transport route selection to manage the congestion of emergency multimodal transport and pays less attention to transshipment scheduling. This paper proposes an integrated optimization problem of transport routes and transshipment sequences (ITRTSP) and constructs a hybrid flow shop scheduling model to describe it. Based on this model, a recursive method is proposed to calculate the minimum waiting times that cargoes consume in queues at hubs, given the transport routes and transshipment sequences. Furthermore, a memetic algorithm is designed with route selection as the outer layer and transshipment sequence selection as the inner layer for solving ITRTSP. Compared with existing achievements, the model and algorithms can quantify the dependency between transshipment sequence selection and emergency transport time in multimodal transport network settings. The model and algorithms are applied to solve some real-scale examples and compared with the first-come-first-served (FCFS) rule commonly used in the current literature. The results indicate that the makespan is reduced by up to approximately 4.2%, saving 33.68 h. These findings demonstrate that even with given hub capacities and transport routes, congestion can still be managed and the schedule optimized through transshipment scheduling, further improving emergency transport efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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As society becomes more complex, the importance of quick and effective emergency response systems gets more emphasized. This paper introduces a way to reduce the time it takes for emergency staff assembly to be handled during radioactive accidents, which is one of significant factors to manage early stage situations. Using a type of computer modeling called agent-based modeling (ABM) on the NetLogo software, we examine how emergency responses are carried out, focusing on how emergency staff assembly workers are sent out and how they work together in a simulated setting. By integrating traffic and path-finding models, along with real-world GIS (Geographic Information System) data, our methodology allows for more realistic evaluation of response times under various scenarios, including harsh weather conditions (e.g., Heavy snow) and infrastructural disruptions (e.g., Earthquake). The findings reveal significant variability in emergency staff assembly times, underscored by the impact of environmental factors. This research not only contributes to the understanding of emergency response mechanisms but also provides a practical framework for improving the efficacy of disaster management systems, thereby enhancing public safety and resilience against future radiological events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many school nurses experienced increased work burden and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis examined data from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cross-sectional, nationwide survey of school nurses in March 2022 to examine associations between school nurses' ability to conduct their core responsibilities and selected nurse and school factors among school nurses during the 2021–2022 school year and COVID-19 pandemic. Perceived adequate staffing and financial compensation reduced the odds of reported difficulties across all core school nursing tasks. Nurses without a registered nurse license and with higher caseloads were more likely to report difficulty in implementing specific tasks. The impact of these factors varied, with inadequate financial compensation having the largest association with school nurses' difficulty implementing all the core responsibilities. The study results improve our understanding of school nurses' challenges in implementing core school nursing responsibilities during the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2021–2022 school year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the background of Jiaxing City’s preliminary completion of institutional reform and revision of earthquake emergency plans, this paper deeply analyzes the current situation of earthquake emergency work faced by Jiaxing City. It proposes a strategic path for building and improving the earthquake emergency system in Jiaxing City from eight aspects, including reconstructing and strengthening collaborative emergency systems, improving emergency plans, and guiding social participation. The goal is to enhance the emergency response capacity of Jiaxing City in response to sudden earthquake events, while also hoping to provide valuable reference and inspiration for other cities in the Yangtze River Delta region with similar geographical and socio-economic characteristics in the construction of earthquake emergency systems.

Background: The healthcare sector witnessed the occurrences and impacts of disruptions on supply chains during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Consequently, it is essential to strengthen institutional medical supply chain systems by addressing the key attributes of strategic stockpile plan renewal: flexibility, traceability and transparency, perseverance and responsiveness, global independence, and equitable access. Aim and objective: To establish a resilient supply chain integrated into the emergency management cycle by proposing a sustainable 5P Strategic Medical Stockpile model. Settings: Online evidence, available literature, and lessons learned during the COVID-19 response in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Methods: This review employed a systematic methodology of identification, selection, assessment, synthesis, and interpretation of data from peer-reviewed articles, review reports, and response frameworks spanning the years 2012 to 2020. Additionally, media reports and announcements were analyzed to determine the implications of COVID-19 on the supply chain from 2020 to 2022. Recommendations are formulated in response to the identified shortcomings revealed during the review process, as well as considering experiences and lessons resulting from responses to address COVID-19 in the Abu Dhabi Health Sector. Results: Our analysis revealed a deficiency in effective operational protocols for building a robust supply chain. The experience gained from responding to COVID-19 has highlighted deficiencies such as unclear issues with stockpiles, inadequate resources, insufficient planning, the absence of established procedures, and a lack of performance monitoring. The pandemic had a tremendous impact on health systems and medical supply chains worldwide. Our suggested model necessitates aligning responses with national contingency protocols. Accountability may fluctuate during each phase of an emergency, depending on decision-making authority and jurisdictional capabilities. Conclusion: The proposed 5P model can support policymakers, health regulators, institutions, and professionals in formulating strategies to establish a resilient stockpile system that serves as a medical supply chain buffer when supplies are not instantly accessible. [SJEMed 2024; 5(2.000): 073-080]

Abstract The application of multimodal deep learning for emergency response and recovery, specifically in disaster social media analysis, is of utmost importance. It is worth noting that in real-world scenarios, sudden disaster events may differ from the training data, which may require the multimodal network to predict them as unknown classes instead of misclassifying them to known ones. Previous studies have primarily focused on model accuracy in a closed environment and may not be able to directly detect unknown classes. Thus, we propose a novel multimodal model for categorizing social media related to disasters in an open-world environment. Our methodology entails utilizing pre-trained unimodal models as encoders for each modality and performing information fusion with a cross-attention module to obtain the joint representation. For open-world detection, we use a multitask classifier that encompasses both a closed-world and an open-world classifier. The closed-world classifier is trained on the original data to classify known classes, whereas the open-world classifier is used to determine whether the input belongs to a known class. Furthermore, we propose a sample generation strategy that models the distribution of unknown samples using known data, which allows the open-world classifier to identify unknown samples. Our experiments were conducted on two public datasets, namely CrisisMMD and MHII. According to the experimental results, the proposed method outperforms other baselines and approaches in crisis information classification.

Abstract Background Cameroon is amongst the worst affected countries by road traffic injuries with an estimated 1443 disability-adjusted life years per 100,000 population. There have been very limited reports on the crucial prehospital response to road traffic injuries in Cameroon. This study aimed to identify prehospital factors associated with RTI mortality in Cameroon. Methods We included patients enrolled between June 2022 and March 2023 in the Cameroon Trauma Registry. Information about prehospital factors and demographic data was obtained from patients or their proxies. We examined the association of prehospital care factors like care at the crash scene and type of transportation during crash with final patient outcome. We used Chi-squared test to investigate the association between selected independent variables and mortality. A multivariable logistic regression model was built to identify independent predictors of dying from an RTI. Results RTIs constituted 69.5% (n = 3203) of all injuries in the Cameroon Trauma Registry. Only 20.7% (n = 102) of 4 + wheel vehicle occupants had seatbelts on and just 2.7% (n = 53) of motorcycle riders were wearing helmets during the collision. Only 4.9% (n = 156) of patients received any form of scene care. In-hospital mortality was 4.3% (n = 139) and was associated with male sex (AOR = 1.7, 95%CI = 1.08–2.80), crashing on a motorcycle (AOR = 2.08, 95%CI = 1.1–3.67) and scene care (AOR = 0.25, 95%CI = 0.04–0.80). Conclusions Receiving any type of care at the scene such as bleeding control or being placed in the recovery position by bystanders is associated with improved survival. Improving on existing informal prehospital care responses should be a priority in Cameroon.

The application of multimodal deep learning for emergency response and recovery, specifically in disaster social media analysis, is of utmost importance. It is worth noting that in real-world scenarios, sudden disaster events may differ from the training data, which may require the multimodal network to predict them as unknown classes instead of misclassifying them to known ones. Previous studies have primarily focused on model accuracy in a closed environment and may not be able to directly detect unknown classes. Thus, we propose a novel multimodal model for categorizing social media related to disasters in an open-world environment. Our methodology entails utilizing pre-trained unimodal models as encoders for each modality and performing information fusion with a cross-attention module to obtain the joint representation. For open-world detection, we use a multitask classifier that encompasses both a closed-world and an open-world classifier. The closed-world classifier is trained on the original data to classify known classes, whereas the open-world classifier is used to determine whether the input belongs to a known class. Furthermore, we propose a sample generation strategy that models the distribution of unknown samples using known data, which allows the open-world classifier to identify unknown samples. Our experiments were conducted on two public datasets, namely CrisisMMD and MHII. According to the experimental results, the proposed method outperforms other baselines and approaches in crisis information classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review explores the impact of telemedicine, mobile health (mHealth) applications, and point-of-care ultrasound in disaster scenarios. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar to identify relevant studies on technology in disaster medicine. The findings indicate that telemedicine significantly enhances communication and coordination among emergency teams, mHealth applications improve patient tracking and triage, and point-of-care ultrasound provides rapid and accurate diagnostics in disaster settings. These technological advancements have contributed to efficient and effective disaster response efforts, highlighting the critical role of technology in modern disaster medicine.

ObjectiveTo identify the key issues in emergency response to public health emergencies in the Yangtze River Delta region, and to provide a basis for the formulation of relevant policies.MethodLiterature on emergency response to public health emergencies in the Yangtze River Delta region was systematically reviewed and collected, and 18 main problems were identified after collecting and organizing the problems. A questionnaire survey and cluster analysis were used to identify the key issues.ResultsThe study of 18 major problems revealed that "insufficient reserve of emergency medical supplies", "insufficient financial investment to meet the needs of emergency response", "lack of a sound mechanism for the deployment of supplies, resulting in the untimely deployment of materials", were the key issues of emergency response to public health emergencies in the Yangtze River Delta region.ConclusionFuture development of the emergency response system in the Yangtze River Delta region should focus on accelerating the integration process of the Yangtze River Delta, establishing and improving information systems, optimizing the material storage and deployment network, prioritizing the fund investment and utilization mechanism, and improving the effectiveness of public health emergency response.

Sarah Al-Shammari,1 Ahmed M Al-Wathinani,2 Mohammed A Abahussain,2 Nawaf A Albaqami,1 Mohammad A Alhallaf,2 Hassan Farhat,3,4 Krzysztof Goniewicz5 1Day Surgery Unit, Royal Commission Hospital, Jubail Industrial City, Al Jubail 31961, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Emergency Medical Services, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz College for Emergency Medical Services, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 3Ambulance Service, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; 4Faculty of Medicine Ibn El Jazzar, University of Sousse, 4000, Sousse, Tunisia & Faculty of Sciences, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia; 5Department of Security, Polish Air Force University, 08-521 D&eogon;blin, PolandCorrespondence: Ahmed M Al-Wathinani, Email ahmalotaibi@ksu.edu.saIntroduction: This study aimed to evaluate disaster preparedness and management among an inter-professional team at the Royal Commission Hospital (RCH) in Jubail, Saudi Arabia.Methods: Conducted between May and July 2023, this cross-sectional study involved healthcare providers in both patient-facing and non-patient-facing roles. Participants responded to a comprehensive online questionnaire comprising 22 questions across seven sections covering aspects of emergency response, disaster management, and infection control. The study targeted a minimum sample size of 500 participants, successfully garnering responses from 512 individuals.Results: Of the 512 participants, 59.9% (n=312) were healthcare providers in patient-facing roles, and 40.1% (n=209) were in non-patient-facing roles. The results revealed notable disparities in awareness and preparedness between these two groups. Healthcare providers demonstrated higher awareness levels compared to their non-patient-facing counterparts. For instance, 76.9% of healthcare providers were aware of the hospital’s emergency response plan compared to 56.2% of non-healthcare providers (χ² = 52.165, p < 0.001). Similar disparities were observed in understanding the term “disaster” (86.5% vs 54.1%, χ² = 27.931, p < 0.001), and awareness of a command center (73.4% vs 45.2%, χ² = 42.934, p < 0.001).Discussion: These findings underscore the critical need for enhancing awareness, education, and preparedness within healthcare facilities, emphasizing an integrated approach that includes both healthcare and non-healthcare staff. By addressing these gaps, healthcare facilities can significantly improve their emergency response efficiency, disaster management capabilities, and infection control measures, thereby enhancing the overall safety and quality of patient care.Keywords: disaster preparedness, emergency response, inter-professional collaboration, healthcare management, infection control, emergency medicine training, patient safety, cross-sectional analysis

IT has made significant progress in various fields over the past few years, with many industries transitioning from paper-based to electronic media. However, sharing electronic medical records remains a long-term challenge, particularly when patients are in emergency situations, making it difficult to access and control their medical information. Previous studies have proposed permissioned blockchains with limited participants or mechanisms that allow emergency medical information sharing to pre-designated participants. However, permissioned blockchains require prior participation by medical institutions, and limiting sharing entities restricts the number of potential partners. This means that sharing medical information with local emergency doctors becomes impossible if a patient is unconscious and far away from home, such as when traveling abroad. To tackle this challenge, we propose an emergency access control system for a global electronic medical information system that can be shared using a public blockchain, allowing anyone to participate. Our proposed system assumes that the patient wears a pendant with tamper-proof and biometric authentication capabilities. In the event of unconsciousness, emergency doctors can perform biometrics on behalf of the patient, allowing the family doctor to share health records with the emergency doctor through a secure channel that uses the Diffie-Hellman (DH) key exchange protocol. The pendant's biometric authentication function prevents unauthorized use if it is stolen, and we have tested the blockchain's fee for using the public blockchain, demonstrating that the proposed system is practical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underground gas storage is an important facility for regulating the supply and demand of natural gas, optimising the allocation of gas sources and ensuring the safety of gas supply. The traditional emergency response mechanism for gas storage often relies on emergency response agents’ experience and judgement, while there is a lack of a systematic and scientific decision support method to ensure the efficient transfer of information in the emergency response process and maximize the benefits of emergency response scheme. A gas storage reservoir emergency response optimization method was proposed, which constructs a gas storage reservoir emergency response model using the intelligent body cooperative response modeling language. Besides, a method of calculating the disposal benefit of emergency response scheme based on the depth-first search strategy was presented, which determines the optimal cooperative response scheme by using the benefit rate as a robustness indicator of the emergency response cooperative scheme. Finally, taking the emergency response process of Chongqing Xiangguosi Gas Storage Reservoir as an example, a case study was conducted. The results show that compared with the original emergency response scheme, the optimal cooperative response scheme reduces the end-of-response elapsed time by 38. 4% and improves the rate of return by 26. 61% . The coordinated response scheme combined with the optimisation algorithm is effective in reducing time consumption and increasing disposal yield [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the rapid advancement of technology has paved the way for innovative solutions aimed at enhancing personal safety and security. Among these, wearable Internet of Things (IoT) devices have emerged as a significant development, particularly in safeguarding vulnerable groups such as women and children. This paper introduces a smart security solution that leverages wearable IoT systems to provide real-time monitoring and protection. The increasing incidence of crimes against women and children highlights the urgent need for effective safety measures. Traditional security approaches often fall short in offering immediate assistance or preventive measures. However, wearable IoT devices, equipped with sensors and connectivity features, offer a proactive approach to security. These devices can monitor various physiological and environmental parameters, detect potential threats, and trigger timely alerts to guardians or authorities Our proposed smart security solution integrates advanced IoT technologies with user-friendly wearable devices designed specifically for women and children. This system encompasses several critical components, including GPS tracking, real-time communication, health monitoring, and emergency alert mechanisms. By harnessing the power of IoT, this solution aims to provide continuous protection, enhance situational awareness, and facilitate rapid response in case of emergencies. In this paper, we will explore the design, functionality, and potential impact of wearable IoT devices in improving the safety and security of women and children. We will also discuss the challenges and considerations in implementing such systems, including privacy concerns, data security, and the need for reliable connectivity. Through this comprehensive examination, we aim to demonstrate the viability and importance of IoT-based wearable technology in fostering a safer environment for vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the potential role of the private sector, particularly the crop protection industry, in enhancing emergency pest prevention, preparedness and response (EPPPR) in relation to invasive pests. By leveraging their position and knowledge, private companies can contribute significantly to mitigating pest-related risks, enabling sustainable responses. We outline a comprehensive framework for EPPPR, covering prevention, preparedness, early detection, emergency response and integrated pest management, and we discuss how the private sector can contribute to this framework. We highlight the value that greater private sector involvement could bring to emergency pest prevention, preparedness and early pest detection through its on-the-ground networks and data-sharing capabilities with national plant protection organisations. Additionally, we stress the importance of robust and agile regulatory frameworks and policies for creating an enabling environment for the effective management of emergency pest outbreaks. We also emphasise the potential opportunities provided by private sector investment in research and development in driving innovation in pest management technologies. By fostering partnerships with governments, international organisations, local communities and other stakeholders, the private sector can play a vital role in building a resilient agricultural system capable of withstanding pest challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergency response decision making is crucial in managing critical incidents; however, several studies have demonstrated the negative effects of decision inertia. Understanding the manifestation and impact of decision inertia, as well as utilising extended reality (XR) technology with 360-degree immersion, should enhance decision making in high-stress environments and improve emergency response efforts. This study investigated decision inertia, using 109 participants, in an XR 360-degree environment and its impact on decision-making outcomes. The findings revealed that participants often opted for a sub-optimal outcome, and decision inertia scores varied across these outcomes. Linear regression analysis demonstrated that decision inertia scores significantly predicted decision outcomes, with higher decision inertia scores associated with sub-optimal decision-making. Participants prior moral decision-making did influence subsequent immersive reality decision outcomes and demonstrated a Bayesian updating effect. The Structured Tabular Thematic Analysis highlighted the importance of information validity, decision confidence, and scenario fidelity in decision-making within the immersive environment. The study provides insights into decision inertia in immersive virtual reality critical incidents and offers practical solutions for improving decision-making processes in emergency response contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a nuclear emergency, consequence assessment based on the plant conditions using a simple method is important for a prompt response. Response Technical Manual (RTM-96) is a manual calculation method for prompt dose projection at arbitrary distances by converting pre-calculated doses with the conversion factor based on distance and weather. However, the 'conversion factor' in RTM-96 does not consider accident scenarios with filtered containment venting system (FCVS). Therefore, in this study, we defined the ratio of effective dose between 1 km and an arbitrary distance as the 'Distance Conversion Factor (DCF)' and aimed to clarify the difference between DCFs by accident scenarios, focusing on the presence or absence of FCVS. The results showed that the differences in DCFs for different accident scenarios were minor in the case of no rainfall. In contrast, in the case of rainfall, DCF differed significantly with scenarios with FCVS and those with containment failure. Therefore, the authors propose that DCFs with rainfall should be calculated separately for several representative accident scenarios rather than uniformly for all accident scenarios, as in the conventional method. The results can contribute to developing a new prompt consequence assessment method, such as RTM-96, which considers FCVS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban communities have long been pivotal in wealth creation and technological innovation. In the contemporary context, their modus operandi is intricately tied to a diverse array of critical infrastructure systems (CISs). These systems—encompassing utilities, transportation, communication, and more—are indispensable for daily life; however, historical lessons underscore that the ever-growing interdependence among modern CISs has sapped their robustness. Furthermore, this vulnerability is compounded by the intensifying natural hazards catalysed by climate change, leaving urban communities with eroded resilience. Against this backdrop, pilot studies have harnessed breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) to chart a new course toward resilient urban communities. This paper illuminates AI-driven resilience by reviewing the latest research in key aspects including (1) the limitation of state-of-the-art resilience assessment frameworks; (2) emergency response as a novel blueprint featuring swift response following catastrophes; (3) efficient loss assessment of CISs using AI algorithms; and (4) machine-learning-enabled autonomous emergency response planning. The remaining challenges and hardships faced on the journey toward resilient urban communities are also discussed. The findings could contribute to the ongoing discourse on enhancing urban resilience in the face of increasingly frequent and destructive climate hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many cities across the United States (U.S.) face threats from natural hazards, and as climate change continues to worsen, cities will face increased risks. Emergency management helps cities to mitigate these risks and adapt to shifting threats. Based on the Rockefeller City Resilience Framework and City Resilience Index Driver 3, Indicator 3.4, the scope of this research was to develop an emergency management maturity model and explore emergency management capacity for future disasters based on an assessment of five cities across the U.S. With the resulting data, a city's score would serve as an evaluation of the emergency response indicator (Indicator 3.4) in order to eventually enter the City Resilience Index. The cities selected were Buffalo, New York; Honolulu, Hawaii; Memphis, Tennessee; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Saint Paul, Minnesota, based on their hazard/risk factors. It should be noted that these scores were intended to compare resilience in a city over time and identify unique areas in which the cities could improve emergency management and were not meant to rank the cities against each other. An interesting find was the overlap between the counties and cities regarding policy data, creating a new avenue for research in local level emergency management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Wildland Fire Science is the property of Journal of Wildland Fire Science Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Coal Geology & Exploration is the property of Xian Research Institute of China Coal Research Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The frequency of natural disasters has increased recently, posing a huge threat to human society. Rapid, accurate, authentic, and comprehensive acquisition and transmission of disaster information are crucial in emergency response. In this paper, we propose a design scheme for an aerial remote sensing platform based on real-time satellite communication. This platform mainly includes a civilian heavy-duty unmanned aerial vehicle, ground observation system with the self-developed orthographic image stabilization device, wireless communication system with an airborne mobile communication device using Ku band, ground satellite information receiving station, and data processing and application analysis system. The image stabilization capability of the ground observation system and the communication capability of the wireless communication system were verified through ground and flight tests respectively. The results showed that the stability accuracy of the platform was better than the theoretical threshold, the system transmission rate was not less than 2 M bandwidth, the data packet loss rate was low, and the time delay was not more than 2 s. The images captured in the experiment were clear, with a resolution of less than 1cm and an overlap rate of more than 70%. These all results meet the emergency observation requirement, which indicates that the aerial remote sensing platform based on real-time satellite communication has great potential for application in natural disaster emergency response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) play a pivotal role in disaster management and emergency response for ensuring safety of our society. In this respect, lightweight deep learning models are necessary for video and image processing onboard of UAVs for real-time applications. In this study, a useful feature extraction module known as "multi-block" is designed to effectively capture information across multiple imagery scales for facilitate lightweight deep learning models. The multi-block module incorporates depthwise convolution layers with diverse kernel sizes to ensure robust feature extraction. Then, pointwise convolution is leveraged to capture the correlation between different spatial locations and channels. Evaluated with the Aerial Image Database for Emergency Response (AIDER), the proposed multi-block module demonstrates a reliable performance pertaining to its feature extraction capabilities for undertaking aerial image classification tasks in disaster management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The benefits of pharmacists' involvement in medical emergencies are well established, but optimal methods of training pharmacists for emergency response are unknown. The primary objective of this report is to describe the design and evaluation of a pharmacy resident medical emergency response training (PR-MERT) program for preparing trainees to respond to hospital medical emergencies, including cardiac arrest and rapid sequence intubation (RSI). Summary The PR-MERT program was a year-long longitudinal experience designed to prepare postgraduate year 1 pharmacy residents for medical emergency response. During the first month, the residents completed an orientation session that encompassed several lectures, certification by the American Heart Association in basic life support and advanced cardiovascular life support, standardized simulation scenarios, and mock medical emergencies. The trainees continued to utilize these skills and clinical knowledge through a longitudinal didactic lecture series, resident case conferences, and practice-based application by responding to real-life medical emergencies. Residents were assessed and coached throughout the program by clinical pharmacy preceptors and a "code coach" with extensive medical emergency response experience. After the year-long training, residents completed an anonymous survey assessing self-confidence and the structure of the program. The results showed improved confidence in medication selection and dosing, as well as anticipating the needs of the team and speaking up in cardiac arrest and RSI situations. Residents were satisfied with the training offered and structure of the program. Conclusion The development of a PR-MERT program at an academic medical center was successful in achieving longitudinal learning objectives and improving residents' confidence in responding to medical emergencies. The implementation of a similar medical emergency training curriculum in inpatient pharmacy residency programs may be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In urban areas exposed to high-magnitude earthquakes, the drinking water supply would be severely damaged, and domestic services would be disrupted for a large part of the population in the event of an earthquake. The Lima-Callao metropolitan area in Peru, South America, is expected to experience an 8.8 Mw earthquake, and it is estimated that approximately 90% of the population would not have immediate access to emergency water in the case of such an event. The main objective of this paper is to define criteria for a spatial analysis method to guide the design criteria for an Emergency Water Supply System (EWaSS). Methods: This paper combines territorial, urban resilience and participatory approaches and presents the results of an interdisciplinary research with social impact. Thus, it examines the urban territory at macro-, meso- and micro scales; physical-spatial variables indicating risk levels and possible public spaces to implement the system; and socio-spatial variables regarding the population, risk perception and participation in management to strengthen urban resilience. Normative tools and the Geographic Information System are used to spatialize and systematize quantitative and qualitative information. Results and discussion: The EWaSS is an alternative for safe water supply in a post-disaster situation that would provide immediate and autonomous operation during the first 72 h of the emergency. The results show the physical-spatial and social viability of urbanized areas and the system design criteria that guide local actors in making decisions at the three levels of emergency management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial fires at facilities including waste management sites, warehouses, factories, chemical works, and fuel storage depots are relatively frequent occurrences. Often, these fires occur adjacent to urban communities and result in ground-level airborne pollutant concentrations that are well above guideline values. Land, water, livestock, and crops may also be contaminated by the emissions and by firefighting activities. Moreover, impacted communities tend to have a higher proportion of minority ethnic populations as well as individuals with underlying health vulnerabilities and those of lower socio-economic status. Nevertheless, this is an aspect of air quality that is under-researched, and so this review aims to highlight the public health hazards associated with industrial fires and the need for an effective, coordinated, public health response. We also review the range of monitoring techniques that have been utilised in such fires and highlight the role of dispersion modelling in predicting plume trajectories and in estimating population exposure. We recommend establishing 1 h guideline values for particulate matter to facilitate timely public health interventions, and we highlight the need to review regulatory and technical controls for sites prone to fires, particularly in the waste sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explosion in the military zone emergency response plan includes the process of preparedness, risk reduction, and normalization of the emergency. A bomb blast causes human and financial losses to people. Therefore, to prepare and reduce the risk, it is necessary to simulate a bomb blast in a military zone. For this purpose, in this study, the risk of a bomb blast containing ethane, methane, and propane fuel was simulated by the Baker-Strehlow-Tang explosion method in the form of 3 scenarios. According to this method, at a distance of 6, 4.5, and 5 km from the place of ethane, methane, and propane bombs explosion, respectively, the amount of impulse caused by the explosion is reduced by 50%. According to these results, it is clear that the overpressure explosion of ethane, methane, and propane bombs in the military zone is not directly related to the distance from the site of the explosion. The pulse from the explosion of ethane, methane, and propane bombs occurs in one second and will be the same at all distances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Remote Sensing is the property of Editorial Office of Journal of Remote Sensing & Science Publishing Co. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Summary: Drones, unmanned aerial systems, are of growing interest to organizations involved in disaster risk reduction, particularly in post-disaster emergency response. Despite the potential benefits of drones, their use is not well established and practical challenges need to be understood. This study examines the role of drones in disaster management by analyzing various applications of drones in response to the Noto Peninsula earthquake in January 2024. Drones were used on the ground in a variety of new ways, including transport of emergency supplies, restore of cellphone communications, and inspect on damaged facilities. Several issues were identified, including the need to incorporate drone capabilities into disaster management plans, develop appropriate laws and regulations, establish public-private coordination mechanisms, address technological limitations due to advances in technology, and implement training programs specifically for drone operators. Collaboration among government agencies, private organizations, and industry associations in disaster response highlighted the importance of fostering partnerships and mobilizing collective expertise in disaster management. The study concludes by highlighting the important role that drones can play in enhancing emergency response efforts and mitigating the impact of future disasters.