A study using mobile phone positioning data tracks population movements after disasters, providing more accurate estimates than ad hoc methods. The method can be used for close to real-time monitoring of population movements during outbreaks, leading to better allocation of relief supplies.
Researchers found that role abandonment by first responders is unlikely if organizations are proactive in protecting their employees. The study suggests that employers should reach out to families and provide support and resources for spouses to alleviate role strain. Additionally, education on disaster threats and personal protective ...
A new study found that stress experienced by young female rats can affect their future offspring, causing behavior impairments. However, providing an enriched environment can ameliorate some of the negative effects. The study also showed that offspring raised in enriched environments can offset inherited effects.
The INFORMS journal has announced a special issue on using logistics and analytics to improve responses to disasters and health crises. The studies featured include pre-positioning of emergency items, optimizing schedules for maritime humanitian cooperative engagements.
A team at Georgia Tech developed an operations research model that helped CARE International pick three locations worldwide to supply relief quickly to victims of earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters. The model considered capacity constraints and recommended a gradual roll-out plan, enabling CARE to reduce response time, pr...
A study by North Carolina State University found that organized sports can bring people together and provide hope in the wake of disasters like Hurricane Katrina. The research highlighted both the positive and negative impacts of sports on community recovery.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a system to anticipate high-risk climate tipping points, providing early warning systems for devastating consequences. By analyzing observational data, scientists can identify signs of instability in climate systems, allowing for forewarning and adaptation.
The elderly are more vulnerable to negative impacts of floods and natural disasters due to age-related disabilities and social circumstances. Research highlights the importance of considering age-related needs in emergency preparedness planning to ensure better outcomes.
A recent study reveals that households in New Orleans broke up more than double the national rate following Hurricane Katrina. The study found that extended-family households were especially vulnerable to breakups due to their composition and response to economic need.
Survivors with pre-existing mental conditions, such as schizophrenia and dementia, are vulnerable to long-term harm after disasters. Disaster-response planners must prioritize their needs alongside those of physically injured individuals.
A 440-year-old document reveals that the Andean population in Peru bounced back briefly after initial Spanish invasion but declined due to repeated disasters, rigid administration and epidemic disease. The census data challenges long-held assumptions about indigenous population decline in the Americas.
Cola detectives use protein testing to verify natural ingredients in premium soft drinks, detecting plant proteins in drinks claiming 'organic agave syrup and cola nut extracts'. Coca Cola products, without natural cola extract claims, have no detected protein, giving consumers a certificate of authenticity.
Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have launched a new online Crisis Communication Scorecard to help public authorities improve their communication before, during, and after emergencies or disasters. The free online tool assesses stakeholder expectations, media relations, and cooperation between crisis responders.
A proposed Emergency Surgery Coalition aims to prevent supply delays and duplication of services after natural disasters. The coalition, involving experienced surgical humanitarian agencies, could support improved surgical delivery.
The study found that Twitter users in disaster-stricken areas tended to tweet about their unsafe situation, while those in remote areas posted updates to let their followers know they were safe. The researchers also identified numerous unreliable retweets and low signal-to-noise ratio for messages using hashtags.
A recent review article highlights the urgent need for protocols to deal with disaster-related health effects. The study reports on the toxicologic consequences of exposures in the Gulf Oil Spill and notes the complexity of assessing full effects due to multiple sources and underlying disease burdens.
A new study suggests that the soy-based compound Natural S-equol does not increase the risk of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer. Supplements containing SE5-OH have reduced menopause symptoms in postmenopausal women, and the study's findings enhance our understanding of Natural S-equol's safety profile.
Biological invasions are becoming more frequent worldwide, causing multiple extinctions of native species and economic damage. Hazard-reduction plans could minimize these impacts at a low cost, similar to those for natural disasters.
A new study in Honduras found that climate-related weather disasters can lead to increased land wealth and earnings for the rural poor. The poorest residents of a small village were able to recoup their losses and even triple their average holdings after Hurricane Mitch devastated their village in 1998.
Researchers at Purdue University are developing a new scientific field that uses soundscapes to understand ecological characteristics and reconnect people with natural sounds. By analyzing the rhythms of natural sounds, scientists can detect early changes in climate, weather patterns, and pollution.
Researchers found that whole blood retains its clotting properties at least 11 days under standard refrigeration, potentially improving survival in war injuries and disasters. This discovery could lead to a change in clinical practice and improve the availability of whole blood for specific situations.
Researchers study island settlements to understand human resilience and capacity for colonization. Mobility, social networks, and knowledge of the local environment helped indigenous people survive in the face of natural disasters and climate change. The findings inform how we adapt to vulnerabilities and rebound from catastrophes.
Biologists in the Gulf of Mexico are urging the need for strategic research plans to understand and restore marine ecosystems after environmental disasters. The team identified seven key elements needed for these plans, including population trends and demographic processes.
A computer model predicts the environmental fate and impact of oil and chemical dispersant in deepwater spills like the Gulf of Mexico incident. The tool will aid risk assessment and decision-making for scientists managing such disasters.
Researchers propose a new cross-disciplinary approach to analyze and prevent systemic failures in complex systems. Such catastrophes, including power blackouts and disasters, are often caused by fragility in complex systems due to nonlinear interactions among components.
A new report reviews the psychological effects of disasters, finding that less than 30% of adults experience severe, lasting problems, while most people recover from passing distress. Factors influencing recovery include age, socioeconomic status, and economic resources.
A Baylor University study reveals that different households in coastal communities in Belize adapt and cope with climate-related events through various behaviors and strategies. The results highlight the importance of empowerment, access to resources, and collective thinking in enhancing resilience.
A lack of safety procedures was identified as a factor behind the Deepwater Horizon disaster. Norwegian regulation, which relies on internal control and trust between companies and unions, is more robust than the US model, with fewer near-accidents resulting in disasters.
A team of researchers has made significant strides in understanding the long-term history of El Niño, a global climate phenomenon that impacts much of the world. By reconstructing sea surface temperatures over the past 14,000 years, the study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of this complex system.
Elsevier will donate 10% of its revenue to MSF for all subscriptions to MD Consult, purchased between Nov. 15 and Dec. 31, 2010. This campaign aims to provide medical assistance and support to people around the world affected by war, natural disasters, and other crises.
Conservation programs in China's Wenchuan County preserved forest cover after the 2008 earthquake, protecting endangered species like the giant panda. The research found that expansive national conservation efforts reduced natural disaster damage and human impacts.
A study by Prof. David Eilam and his team found that group members display the same level of anxiety when exposed to a common threat, regardless of individual differences. This result has implications for helping clinicians better treat victims of trauma or terror, such as in the case of the 9/11 attacks.
Research suggests that while some survivors of disasters experience severe psychological trauma, others may recover within a few months or years. Effective psychological first aid and community-centered interventions have been shown to be beneficial in supporting survivors' recovery.
A new nutritional supplement containing S-equol has been shown to reduce moderate to severe hot flashes, muscle and joint pain, and improve bone density in postmenopausal women. The supplement also lowers 'bad' LDL-cholesterol levels and is considered safe for long-term use.
A new soy-based natural S-equol supplement reduced the frequency of moderate to severe hot flashes and muscle and joint pain in postmenopausal U.S. women. The study found that lower doses of Natural S-equol significantly improved symptoms, with no clinically significant adverse effects.
Researchers have developed a model that simulates how disasters affect critical infrastructure, including bridges, roads, water treatment services, and vital economic components. The model aims to identify vulnerable elements to take proactive measures or find alternatives.
Yang Hong's project aims to increase Pakistan's capacity to reduce natural disaster risks through training, research, and early warning systems. The goal is to strengthen the country's flood risk assessment and management system, supporting vulnerable communities.
A Virginia Tech researcher is developing a massive data collection system that relies on information captured by 'citizen scientists' to aid in disaster response. The system uses smartphones to collect photographic and sensor data from affected areas, which can be quickly sifted through by responders.
Researchers investigate impact of Deepwater Horizon spill on minute ocean organisms, which play key roles in nutrient cycling and food chains. The study aims to establish baseline information on pre-spill biodiversity to inform future research.
A new national study confirms that children who have experienced both disaster exposure and victimization are at a higher risk of developing anxiety, depression, and aggression. The study highlights the need for community organizations and first-responders to provide support to children in need.
A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that disasters disproportionately affect individuals with disabilities and mental disorders, with significant barriers to housing, transportation, and disaster services still present two years after Hurricane Katrina. Researchers recommend case managers knowledgeable about ...
Researchers found established populations of genetically modified canola plants outside agricultural fields in North Dakota, reproducing and adapting to local environments. This discovery highlights concerns about the spread of biotech products and their impact on native species.
Researchers are collecting high-tech sensing data from various sources to create a reliable early-warning system for train operators. The goal is to predict natural disasters and possible terror attacks on rail lines.
Two studies on Sri Lankan youths who survived the 2004 tsunami and civil war found that traumatic events and daily stressors like domestic violence have a significant impact on their psychological health. Researchers highlight the need for holistic policies and programs to reduce ongoing stressors.
A team of researchers from North Carolina State University has developed a new method for determining the sex of skeletal human remains with high accuracy. The technique uses three-dimensional imaging technology to analyze the shape and size of the pelvis, identifying over 20 key anatomical landmarks that can help determine a body's sex.
The article proposes three rules for physician-journalists covering disasters, including prioritizing medical emergencies over reporting duties and seeking parental consent before featuring children on news reports. These guidelines aim to balance the dual responsibilities of physician-reporters and protect their patients from exploita...
The GEO-PICTURES project combines state-of-the-art satellite communication, navigation, and earth observation to provide accurate optical field observations and tagged position, transferred via satellite-optimized protocols. The platform will be developed in Oslo with several partners and hosted on the CERN campus in Geneva.
SE5-OH containing natural S-equol significantly reduced frequency of hot flushes in postmenopausal women. The compound had no effect on reproductive hormones E2 and FSH, suggesting its potential as a critical component in reducing menopausal symptoms.
Two clinical trials found SE5-OH with Natural S-equol to be safe and well-tolerated in both pre- and post-menopausal women, with no significant impact on reproductive hormones or menstrual cycle length. The supplement showed promise in reducing hot flashes in post-menopausal women.
Dr. Graciela Chichilnisky's research provides solid foundations for better preparing the public and experts for catastrophic events like hurricanes, tsunamis, and floods. Her team has developed new tools in probability and statistics to rank risks, prioritize decisions, and evaluate economic after-effects of disasters.
A global database is necessary to guarantee accurate identification of victims in mass disasters, according to a new study. Radiological techniques are crucial in this process, providing documentation and useful information on skeletal trauma and tooth location.
Research highlights the need for emergency online communities to address the psychological and social needs of people with disabilities during disasters. The study proposes three main objectives: developing coordinated online social networks, establishing adequate infrastructure, and conducting emergency training and simulation.
A research team at Virginia Tech is perfecting an autonomous helicopter designed to assist in investigating nuclear disasters. The helicopter will carry various payloads to detect radiation levels and map damage, while also having a miniature robot to collect evidence. Plans call for the helicopters to be mission-ready in three years.
Health care volunteers can make a disaster situation worse if they are not prepared. To optimize their response, they should seek formal training in disaster medicine and register with existing volunteer organizations. They should also consider the physical and emotional challenges of working in disaster areas and be mindful of the nee...
A team of mathematicians from Complutense University of Madrid develops a computer application to estimate the magnitude of natural disasters, providing useful information for NGOs. They also present an on-site humanitarian aid distribution model that could have been applied in the recent Haiti earthquake.
Research suggests that online social networking sites can facilitate faster information dissemination, provide timely information sources, and re-connect people affected by disasters. However, concerns about technology failure, credibility, and usability issues need to be addressed in developing emergency online networks.
A team of scientists from the University of Granada compared the Aznalcóllar spillage to the Cretaceous mass extinction event, finding similarities in sudden impact and high levels of toxic compounds. The study suggests that ecosystems can recover rapidly following such disasters, with evidence of life re-emerging within years.
A CU-Boulder expert emphasizes that disasters are preventable and that societies can take proactive measures to minimize devastation. The expert argues that the international community should prioritize preventive measures in disaster assistance, such as rebuilding infrastructure to withstand future disasters.
Researchers at UC San Diego are launching a project to improve communication and data-sharing among emergency officials during disasters. The new system aims to overcome obstacles such as unreliable wireless networks, staggering arrival times of responders, and rapidly changing infrastructure capabilities.
Researchers used pláticas to encourage participants to stockpile water and food, resulting in a 93.3% increase in having water compared to 66.7% with mailers. A family communication plan was also more effective with pláticas, at 70.4%, compared to 42.3%.