This paper presents the dynamical properties of a discrete-time prey-predator model with refuge in prey under imprecise biological parameters.We consider the refuge concept of prey,which is proportional to the density...This paper presents the dynamical properties of a discrete-time prey-predator model with refuge in prey under imprecise biological parameters.We consider the refuge concept of prey,which is proportional to the density of prey species with interval parameters.The model develops with natural interval parameters since the uncertainties of parameters of any ecological system are a widespread phenomenon in nature.The equilibria of the model are obtained,and the dynamic behaviours of the proposed system are examined.Simulations of the model are performed for different parameters of the model.Numerical simulations show that the proposed discrete model exhibits rich dynamics of a chaotic and complex nature.Our study,through analytical derivation and numerical example,presents the effect of refuge on population dynamics under imprecise biological parameters.展开更多
This study explores the impact of a host community’s level of cultural diversity on the integration ability and mental health of Syrian refugees resettling into two U.S.States:California and Idaho.This paper addresse...This study explores the impact of a host community’s level of cultural diversity on the integration ability and mental health of Syrian refugees resettling into two U.S.States:California and Idaho.This paper addresses the need for effective integration strategies,mainly due to their impact on mental health,given the current pressing conflicts in the Middle East and the global refugee crisis.This paper uses a comparative analysis of existing literature to examine how refugees hosted in more culturally diverse communities,such as California,experience better means of integration and thus have improved mental health than those hosted in culturally homogenous communities,such as Idaho.Additionally,the study concluded that refugees who can assimilate into a community experience fewer mental health issues.The findings provide valuable insight and information for policymakers seeking to improve refugee integration through nuanced strategies.The study suggests further primary research to discover additional impacts of a community’s cultural diversity on refugees’integration ability.展开更多
Objective:To investigate and compare the demographic characteristics,clinical findings,and laboratory results of pulmonary tuberculosis(PTB)and extrapulmonary tuberculosis(EPTB)patients,among Turkish citizens,and fore...Objective:To investigate and compare the demographic characteristics,clinical findings,and laboratory results of pulmonary tuberculosis(PTB)and extrapulmonary tuberculosis(EPTB)patients,among Turkish citizens,and foreign nationals.Methods:This study included patients aged 18 and over,both Turkish citizens and foreign nationals,diagnosed with PTB or EPTB between 2016 and 2022.All patients were divided into PTB and EPTB group,and demographic characteristics,clinical findings,and laboratory results were compared.Patients with both PTB and EPTB were not included in the comparison.Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify potential risk factors for PTB.Results:Among the 261 TB cases included,46 patients(17.6%)had PTB,and 188(72%)had EPTB.The percentage of female patients was significantly higher(P=0.003)in EPTB compared to PTB group.While the prevalence of diabetes mellitus(P=0.002),hypertension(P=0.017),coronary obstructive pulmonary disease(P=0.001),congestive heart failure(P=0.005),coronary artery disease(P=0.001)and immunosuppressive medication use(P=0.017)were significantly higher in PTB patients than in EPTB patients.Multivariate logistical analysis reveals that male(OR 2.6,95%CI 1.3-5.5,P=0.009),diabetes mellitus(OR 2.7,95%CI 1.2-6.1,P=0.015),and asthma(OR 6.3,95%CI 1.2-33.9,P=0.032)were associated with an increased risk of PTB.Social security coverage(P<0.001)and regular employment status(P<0.001)were found to be lower and the presence of multidrug resistance(P=0.002),isoniazid resistance(P=0.012),and rifampin resistance(P=0.012)were found to be significantly higher in foreign-national TB patients comparing with Turkiye citizens.Conclusions:Patients with PTB need to be evaluated for comorbidities and PTB should be investigated in men,in patients with diabetes mellitus or asthma if there are clinical findings suspicious for TB.TB screening for foreign nationals upon entry into the country is essential for TB control and elimination.展开更多
Adequate sanitation, good hygiene, and safe water are fundamental to good health and socio-economic development. There is a close relationship between economic empowerment, livelihood factors and societal hygiene. Wor...Adequate sanitation, good hygiene, and safe water are fundamental to good health and socio-economic development. There is a close relationship between economic empowerment, livelihood factors and societal hygiene. World Health Organization (WHO) reported that each year there are 1.3 to 4.0 million cases of cholera, with deaths between 21000 to 143000. Cholera transmission is closely linked to inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Typical at-risk areas include peri-urban slums and camps for displaced persons or refugees. In April 2000, a large outbreak of cholera due to Vibrio cholera serotype Ogawa affected the Island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. In Malawi, there were many cholera deaths among refugees, with a case fatality rate of 3.5%, 68% of which mostly occurred within 24 hours of hospital admission. About 10% of the Kenyan population (4.89 million) is living in the 30-combination high-priority sub-counties according to Kenya’s new 2022-2030 Cholera Elimination Plan. In 2005, cholera outbreak struck within the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya;418 people were treated, and 4 persons died. In this Desk Review Paper, we have explored the presentation in the following sub-themes: Introduction, where we talked about sanitation and matters of Migration and Health from the global scale down to Turkana County, Kenya where Kakuma Refugee Camp is located;the influence of health education among migrants and the local communities on cholera prevention and control;the status of sanitation facilities and their use in cholera prevention and control;how the respective health systems are prepared in terms of human resource on cholera prevention and control including tackling emergencies on displaced populations;existing policies and laws governing the socio-economic space of migrants and host communities in Africa and the world. We discovered the need for health stakeholders to respond and strive to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 1, 3, 6, 10 and WHO Triple Billion Targets and, in particular, prevent fecal-oral diseases among forced populations.展开更多
In this paper, the dynamical behaviors of a modified Leslie-Gower predator-prey model incorporating fear effect and prey refuge are investigated. We delve into the construction of the model and its biological signific...In this paper, the dynamical behaviors of a modified Leslie-Gower predator-prey model incorporating fear effect and prey refuge are investigated. We delve into the construction of the model and its biological significance, with preliminary results encompassing positivity, boundedness, and persistence. The stability of the system’s boundary and positive equilibrium points is proven by calculating the real part of the eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrix. At the positive equilibrium point, we demonstrate that the system’s unique positive equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable by using the Dulac criterion. Furthermore, at this equilibrium point, we employ the Implicit Function Theorem to discuss how fear effects and prey refuges influence the population densities of both prey and predators. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to validate the above-mentioned conclusions and explored the impact of Predator-taxis sensitivity αon dynamics of the system.展开更多
Objectives:To assess the outcomes of the intensive care of Syrian refugees under temporary protection (SRUTP). Methods: The sample of the study was composed of 110 SRUTP patients who were treated at a tertiary intensi...Objectives:To assess the outcomes of the intensive care of Syrian refugees under temporary protection (SRUTP). Methods: The sample of the study was composed of 110 SRUTP patients who were treated at a tertiary intensive care unit (ICU) between 2013 and 2019 in Istanbul, Turkey. Baseline information and clinical data of the patients were collected by scanning the hospital's electronic database and clinical decision support system. Results:The mean length of ICU stay was 97.6 (36.3-187.8) h. Among the patients, 71 (64.5%) had comorbid diseases, and ICU mortality was 40%. The median cost of health care for each patient was 2144 (1060-4471) USD, and the total health care cost of all patients was 534012USD. Conclusions: Use of vasoactive drug, hemodialysis application, and low Glasgow Coma Scale scores are independent risk factors of the mortality. More researches are needed to clearly reveal the health and cost consequences of war.展开更多
The refugee determination system directly affects whether or not an asylum seeker can obtain a country’s legal protection. The rational construction of China’s refugee determination system is not only the need to co...The refugee determination system directly affects whether or not an asylum seeker can obtain a country’s legal protection. The rational construction of China’s refugee determination system is not only the need to comply with China’s obligations under the International Refugee Convention, but also the requirement for the protection of the legitimate rights of refugees in China. Under the current framework of international law and domestic law, we should gradually improve China’s legal system of refugee status determination, and we should determine refugee screening agencies and define their division of labor and powers rationally, according to the actual situation of China. In the meantime, we should attach importance to undertaking China’s international obligations and strengthening international cooperation in refugee relief.展开更多
AIM: To assess the prevalence of hepatitis B and C serological markers in a population of refugees living in Athens.METHODS: One hundred and thirty refugees (81 males and 49 females, mean age ±SD: 31.7±8 yea...AIM: To assess the prevalence of hepatitis B and C serological markers in a population of refugees living in Athens.METHODS: One hundred and thirty refugees (81 males and 49 females, mean age ±SD: 31.7±8 years) were included in the study. The hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg),the hepatitis B virus core antibody (anti-HBc) and the hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) were detected using a third-generation immunoassay.RESULTS: Twenty individuals (15.4%) were HBsAg positive and 69 (53.1%) were anti-HBc positive. The prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HBc was higher among refugees from Albania and Asia (statistical significant difference, P＜0.008 and P＜0.001 respectively). The prevalence of these markers was found irrelevant to age or sex. Anti-HCV was detected in the serum of 3 individuals (2.3 %). No differences among age, sex or ethnicity regarding anti-HCV prevalence were found.CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that refugees living in Athens are an immigrant population characterized by a high incidence of HBV infection. The prevalence of HBV markers is higher among refugees from Albania and Asia. It is therefore believed that the adherence to general precautions and the initiation of HBV vaccination programs will be necessary in the future, especially in these communities.Although the prevalence of HCV infection seems to be relatively low, extended epidemiological surveys are needed to provide valid results.展开更多
Background:The German Military Medical Service contributed to the medical screening of unaccompanied minor refugees(UMRs)coming to Germany in 2014 and 2015.In this study,a broad range of diagnostic procedures was appl...Background:The German Military Medical Service contributed to the medical screening of unaccompanied minor refugees(UMRs)coming to Germany in 2014 and 2015.In this study,a broad range of diagnostic procedures was applied to identify microorganisms with clinical or public health significance.Previously,those tests had only been used to screen soldiers returning from tropical deployments.This instance is the first time the approach has been studied in a humanitarian context.Methods:The offered screenings included blood cell counts,hepatitis B serology and microscopy of the stool to look for protozoa and worm eggs as well as PCR from stool samples targeting pathogenic bacteria,protozoa and helminths.If individuals refused certain assessments,their decision to do so was accepted.A total of 219 apparently healthy male UMRs coming from Afghanistan,Egypt,Somalia,Eritrea,Syria,Ghana,Guinea,Iran,Algeria,Iraq,Benin,Gambia,Libya,Morocco,Pakistan,and Palestine were assessed.All UMRs who were examined at the study department were included in the assessment.Results:We detected decreasing frequencies of pathogens that included diarrhoea-associated bacteria[Campylobacter(C.)jejuni,enteropathogenic Escherichia(E.)coli(EPEC),enterotoxic E.coli(ETEC),enteroaggregative E.coli(EAEC),enteroinvasive E.coli(EIEC)/Shigella spp.),Giardia(G.)duodenalis,helminths(comprising Schistosoma spp.,Hymenolepis(H.)nana,Strongyloides(S.)stercoralis]as well as hepatitis B virus.Pathogenic microorganisms dominated the samples by far.While G.duodenalis was detected in 11.4%of the assessed UMRs,the incidence of newly identified cases in the German population was 4.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.Conclusion:We conclude that the applied in-house PCR screening systems,which have proven to be useful for screening military returnees from tropical deployments,can also be used for health assessment of immigrants from the respective sites.Apparently healthy UMRs may be enterically colonized with a broad variety of pathogenic and apathogenic microorganisms.Increased colonization rates,as shown for G.duodenalis,can pose a hygiene problem in centralized homes for asylum seekers.展开更多
A stiffened cylindrical shell is normally used in refuge chambers of a coal mine. Based on the method of application and shape characteristics of a refuge chamber, we simplified its shell as an orthotropic cylinder. T...A stiffened cylindrical shell is normally used in refuge chambers of a coal mine. Based on the method of application and shape characteristics of a refuge chamber, we simplified its shell as an orthotropic cylinder. The basic buckling equation of the stiffened cylindrical shell under uniform axial compression was deduced by using a Donnell function. The factors affecting its buckling capacity were studied by theoretical analysis and numerical calculations. The results reveal that the torsional rigidity of the longitudinal stiffener had little effect on the buckling capacity of the shell and that the critical load of an externally stiffened cylindrical shell is higher than that of an internally stiffened cylindrical shell.展开更多
The 1,000 MPa ultra-high strength hot-rolled plate steel with low-carbon bainitic microstructure was developed in the laboratory for coal mine refuge chamber. The static recrystallization behavior, microstructure evol...The 1,000 MPa ultra-high strength hot-rolled plate steel with low-carbon bainitic microstructure was developed in the laboratory for coal mine refuge chamber. The static recrystallization behavior, microstructure evolution, and mechanical properties of this hot-rolled plate steel were investigated by the hot compression, continuous cooling trans- formation, and tensile deformation test. The results show that the developed steel has excellent mechanical properties at both room and elevated temperature, and its microstructure mainly consists of lath bainite, granular bainite, and ferrite after thermal-mechanical control process （TMCP）. The ultra-high strength plate steel is obtained by the TMCP process in hot rolling, strengthened by bainitic transformation, microstructure refinement, and precipitation of alloying elements such as Nb, Ti, Mo, and Cu. The experimental steel has relatively low welding crack sensitivity index and high atmospheric corrosion resistance index. Therefore, the developed steel has a good balance of strength and ductility both at room and elevated temperature, weldability and corrosion resistance, and it can suffice for the basic demands for materials in the manufacture of coal mine refuge chamber.展开更多
Mine refuge chambers are used to shield miners who fail to escape from the mine when incidents occur. Environment maintaining system plays a key role in stabilizing thermal environment of a mine refuge chamber against...Mine refuge chambers are used to shield miners who fail to escape from the mine when incidents occur. Environment maintaining system plays a key role in stabilizing thermal environment of a mine refuge chamber against heat emitted from metabolism and transferred from outside. The safety and comfort of refugees are closely related to the environment maintaining system design. In order to improve the comfort of refugees, optimization on the environment maintaining system has been done based on the previous work. To evaluate the environment of the chamber, eight volunteers were involved into the experiment. Under close observation and safety protection, they lived in a heat-isolated test chamber for 106 hours. The volunteers were asked to maintain low level of activities to simulate refugees＇ situation. It shows that the environment maintaining system worked well and the temperature, relative humidity and emitted harmful air content such as CO2 and CO were all kept in the safety level, and no discomfort was felt by volunteers at all.展开更多
In order to preferably identify infrared image of refuge chamber, reduce image noises of refuge chamber and retain more image details, we propose the method of combining two-dimensional discrete wavelet transform and ...In order to preferably identify infrared image of refuge chamber, reduce image noises of refuge chamber and retain more image details, we propose the method of combining two-dimensional discrete wavelet transform and bilateral denoising. First, the wavelet transform is adopted to decompose the image of refuge chamber, of which low frequency component remains unchanged. Then, three high-frequency components are treated by bilateral filtering, and the image is reconstructed. The result shows that the combination of bilateral filtering and wavelet transform for image denoising can better retain the details which are included in the image, while providing better visual effect. This is superior to using either bilateral filtering or wavelet transform alone. It is useful for perfecting emergency refuge system of coal mines.展开更多
As one form of the energy resources, coal is becoming more and more important. Due to the particularity in coal mine production, mine accidents some time occur in countries all over the world, which result in large ca...As one form of the energy resources, coal is becoming more and more important. Due to the particularity in coal mine production, mine accidents some time occur in countries all over the world, which result in large casualties and economic losses. As equipment that can provides the miners with an emergency shelter when the coal mine accidents occur, the under ground coal mine refuge chamber is paid more and more attention by coal mine enterprises, and the application of the refuge chamber is increasingly widespread. The general functions, the classification, and the successful applications of the underground coal mine refuge chamber are illustrated first, and the research significance on the tmderground coal mine refuge chamber is stated. Following, the development status quo at home and abroad for the refuge chamber is introduced. Then, the implementation methods for the key functions of the underground coal mine refuge chamber are demonstrated. Finally, the prospect for the development of the underground coal mine refuge chamber is stated.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) provides primary health care services including care for diabetes and hypertension, with limited resources under diffic...OBJECTIVE: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) provides primary health care services including care for diabetes and hypertension, with limited resources under difficult circumstances in Gaza, West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. A total of 114,911 people with diabetes were registered with UNRWA health centres in 2011. The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to assess the quality of diabetes care in the UNRWA primary health care centres. METHOD: The study population consisted of 1600 people with diabetes attending the 32 largest UNRWA health centres and treated there for at least one year. Between April and Sept. 2012 data from medical records, including results of clinical examinations and laboratory tests performed during the last one year, current management including self-care education and evidence of diabetes complications were collected and recorded in a previously validated data collection form (DCF). Patients were interviewed and clinically examined on the day of the audit and blood collected for HbA1c testing which was done at a central lab using High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method (HLC®-723G8 Tosoh Corporation, Japan). Data was transferred from paper records into a computer and analysed with Epi-info 2000. RESULTS: Type 1 diabetes was present in 4.3% and type 2 diabetes in 95.7%. Co-morbid hypertension was present in 68.5%;90.3% were either obese (64.0%) or overweight (26.3%). Clinical management of diabetes was largely in line with UNRWA’s technical instructions (TI) for diabetes. Records for 2 hour postprandial glucose (2 h PPG), serum cholesterol, serum creatinine, and urine protein analysis were available in 94.7%, 96.4%, 91.4% and 87.5%, cases, respectively. Records of annual fundoscopic eye examination were available in 47.3% cases but foot examinations were less well documented. Most patients (95.6%) were on anti-diabetic drugs—68.2% oral anti diabetic drugs (OAD) only, 14.4% combination of OAD and insulin, and 12.9% insulin only. While 44.8% patients had 2 h PPG ≤ 180 mg/dl, only 28.2% had HbA1c ≤ 7%;55.5% and 28.2% had BP ≤ 140/90 and ≤130/80 mm of Hg respectively. Serum cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dl, serum creatinine ≥ 1.2 mg/dl and macro albuminuria were noted in 39.8%, 6.4% and 10.3% cases respectively. Peripheral neuropathy (52.6%), foot infections (17%), diabetic retinopathy (11%) and myocardial infarction (9.6%) were the most common long term complications. One or more episodes of hypoglycaemia were reported by 25% cases in total and in 48% of those using insulin. 17.7% and 22.6% cases received no or ≥4 self-care education sessions respectively. CONCLUSION: The study confirmed that UNRWA doctors and nurses follow TI for diabetes and hypertension fairly well. Financial constraints and the consequent effects on UNRWA TI and policies related to diabetes care were important constraints. Key challenges identified were: reliance on 2 h PPG to measure control;non-availability of routine HbA1c testing, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and statins within the UNRWA system;and high levels of obesity in the community. Addressing these will further strengthen UNRWA health system’s efforts of providing services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level. Given that most developing countries either have no or only rudimentary services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level, UNRWA’s efforts can serve as an inspiration to others.展开更多
The personnel in refuge chamber absorb O_2 and exhale CO_2 all the time. Supplying O_2 and removing CO_2 are the basic function of refuge chamber. After disaster occurs, the supply of the compressed air or oxygen for ...The personnel in refuge chamber absorb O_2 and exhale CO_2 all the time. Supplying O_2 and removing CO_2 are the basic function of refuge chamber. After disaster occurs, the supply of the compressed air or oxygen for personnel in refuge chamber is limited. Thus, how to effectively use the compressed air and oxygen and try to improve the time of supply has a great significance. Supplying more oxygen will result in waste, while supplying less oxygen will cause its concentration to be lower, and harm life safety. This research uses the theoretical calculation and numerical simulation, finds critical gas supply for refuge chamber, and illuminates the change law of gas concentration with critical gas supply in refuge chamber,which provides theoretical guidance for effective use of compressed air and oxygen in refuge chamber.展开更多
Since 2009,the Mine Safety and Health Administration(MSHA)has required mines to install refuge alternatives(RAs)in underground coal mines.One of the biggest concerns with occupied RAs is the possible severity of the r...Since 2009,the Mine Safety and Health Administration(MSHA)has required mines to install refuge alternatives(RAs)in underground coal mines.One of the biggest concerns with occupied RAs is the possible severity of the resulting thermal environment.In 30 CFR 7.504,the maximum allowable apparent temperature(AT)for an occupied RA is specified as 35℃(95°F).Manufacturers must conduct heat/humidity tests to demonstrate that their RAs meet the 35℃(95°F)AT limit.For these tests,heat input devices are used to input the metabolic heat of actual miners.A wide variety of test methods,sensors,and heat input devices could be used when conducting such tests.Since 2012,the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health(NIOSH)has conducted over thirty 96-hour heat/humidity tests on four different RAs.This paper discusses the test equipment and procedures used during these investigations.This information is useful for RA manufacturers conducting RA heat/humidity tests,for other researchers investigating RA heat/humidity buildup,and for those who need to assess the thermal environment of any confined space where people may be trapped or are seeking refuge.展开更多
Objective:To determine the prevalence of blinding trachoma among refugees in South Western Ethiopia.Methods:A cross-sectional outreach clinic based descriptive study was conducted on 1054 refugees in Southwest Ethiopi...Objective:To determine the prevalence of blinding trachoma among refugees in South Western Ethiopia.Methods:A cross-sectional outreach clinic based descriptive study was conducted on 1054 refugees in Southwest Ethiopia.A basic eyelid and cornea examination for signs of trachoma was done by using 2.5× binocular magnifying loupe.The findings were classified by using the World Health Digitization simplified trachoma grading system and data were analyzed by using SPSS version 16.0.Results:A total of 1054 refugee patients were examined for trachoma.179(16.98%) of them had clinical signs of trachoma.About 6(3.35%) patients had active trachoma with trachomatous trichiasis(TT),47(26.26%) patients had TT only and the rest 126(70.39%)patients had TT with trachomatous corneal opacity.All of the trachoma patients had blinding trachoma(TT with or without trachomatous corneal opacity),and about 60.89% of them had visual impairment.Blinding trachoma was significantly more common among females.patients in age group of 16-59 years,married patients,illiterates and Fugnido camp settlers(P<0.05).Conclusions:There is a very high burden of blinding trachoma among refugees.Urgent surgical intervention is needed to prevent blindness and low vision in the study subjects,and targeted regular outreach-based eye care service should be commenced.展开更多
Background: Research indicates that Posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD) has an extensive impact on family relationships. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of empirically supported interventions addressing family functio...Background: Research indicates that Posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD) has an extensive impact on family relationships. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of empirically supported interventions addressing family functioning and PTSD. In the Netherlands, it is considered good clinical practice to offer multi-family therapy(MFT) to veteran and refugee families. MFT for traumatized families aims to address the dysfunctional family patterns that have evolved to address the consequences with trauma.Methods: The aim of this study is to generate a common framework for the practical impact and active ingredients of MFT in families confronted with trauma. The Delphi method was used to study the expert opinion of 11 therapists in Dutch expert trauma institutes.Results: The results indicate that MFT is a promising treatment for families dealing with the consequences of trauma. According to experts, positive outcomes include an increased understanding between family members,particularly visible in the de-escalation of conflicts within the family, and improved parenting. One explanation for the effectiveness of MFT with these target groups is its defining feature of therapy with several families.Conclusions: The findings support the importance of considering family relationships and the family context in interventions for traumatized individuals.展开更多
The effects of the variability of individual prey locomotory performance on the vulnerability to predation are poorly understood,partly because individual performance is difficult to determine in natural habitats.To g...The effects of the variability of individual prey locomotory performance on the vulnerability to predation are poorly understood,partly because individual performance is difficult to determine in natural habitats.To gain insights into the role(s)of individual variation in predatory relationships,we study a convenient model system,the neotropical sandy beach gastropod Olivella semistriata and its main predator,the carnivorous snail Agaronia propatula.The largest size class of O.semistriata is known to be missing from A.propatula's spectrum of subdued prey,although the predator regularly captures much larger individuals of other taxa.To resolve this conundrum,we analyzed predation attempts in the wild.While A.propatula attacked O.semistriata of all sizes,large prey specimens usually escaped by'sculling',an accelerated,stepping mode of locomotion.Olivella semistriata performed sculling locomotion regardless of size,but sculling velocities determined in the natural environment increased strongly with size.Thus,growth in size as such does not establish a prey size refuge in which O.semistriata is safe from predation.Rather,a behaviorally mediated size refuge is created through the size-dependence of sculling performance.Taken together,this work presents a rare quantitative characterization in the natural habitat of the causal sequence from the size-dependence of individual performance,to the prey size-dependent outcome of predation attempts,to the size bias in the predator's prey spectrum.展开更多
文摘This paper presents the dynamical properties of a discrete-time prey-predator model with refuge in prey under imprecise biological parameters.We consider the refuge concept of prey,which is proportional to the density of prey species with interval parameters.The model develops with natural interval parameters since the uncertainties of parameters of any ecological system are a widespread phenomenon in nature.The equilibria of the model are obtained,and the dynamic behaviours of the proposed system are examined.Simulations of the model are performed for different parameters of the model.Numerical simulations show that the proposed discrete model exhibits rich dynamics of a chaotic and complex nature.Our study,through analytical derivation and numerical example,presents the effect of refuge on population dynamics under imprecise biological parameters.
文摘This study explores the impact of a host community’s level of cultural diversity on the integration ability and mental health of Syrian refugees resettling into two U.S.States:California and Idaho.This paper addresses the need for effective integration strategies,mainly due to their impact on mental health,given the current pressing conflicts in the Middle East and the global refugee crisis.This paper uses a comparative analysis of existing literature to examine how refugees hosted in more culturally diverse communities,such as California,experience better means of integration and thus have improved mental health than those hosted in culturally homogenous communities,such as Idaho.Additionally,the study concluded that refugees who can assimilate into a community experience fewer mental health issues.The findings provide valuable insight and information for policymakers seeking to improve refugee integration through nuanced strategies.The study suggests further primary research to discover additional impacts of a community’s cultural diversity on refugees’integration ability.
文摘Objective:To investigate and compare the demographic characteristics,clinical findings,and laboratory results of pulmonary tuberculosis(PTB)and extrapulmonary tuberculosis(EPTB)patients,among Turkish citizens,and foreign nationals.Methods:This study included patients aged 18 and over,both Turkish citizens and foreign nationals,diagnosed with PTB or EPTB between 2016 and 2022.All patients were divided into PTB and EPTB group,and demographic characteristics,clinical findings,and laboratory results were compared.Patients with both PTB and EPTB were not included in the comparison.Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify potential risk factors for PTB.Results:Among the 261 TB cases included,46 patients(17.6%)had PTB,and 188(72%)had EPTB.The percentage of female patients was significantly higher(P=0.003)in EPTB compared to PTB group.While the prevalence of diabetes mellitus(P=0.002),hypertension(P=0.017),coronary obstructive pulmonary disease(P=0.001),congestive heart failure(P=0.005),coronary artery disease(P=0.001)and immunosuppressive medication use(P=0.017)were significantly higher in PTB patients than in EPTB patients.Multivariate logistical analysis reveals that male(OR 2.6,95%CI 1.3-5.5,P=0.009),diabetes mellitus(OR 2.7,95%CI 1.2-6.1,P=0.015),and asthma(OR 6.3,95%CI 1.2-33.9,P=0.032)were associated with an increased risk of PTB.Social security coverage(P<0.001)and regular employment status(P<0.001)were found to be lower and the presence of multidrug resistance(P=0.002),isoniazid resistance(P=0.012),and rifampin resistance(P=0.012)were found to be significantly higher in foreign-national TB patients comparing with Turkiye citizens.Conclusions:Patients with PTB need to be evaluated for comorbidities and PTB should be investigated in men,in patients with diabetes mellitus or asthma if there are clinical findings suspicious for TB.TB screening for foreign nationals upon entry into the country is essential for TB control and elimination.
文摘Adequate sanitation, good hygiene, and safe water are fundamental to good health and socio-economic development. There is a close relationship between economic empowerment, livelihood factors and societal hygiene. World Health Organization (WHO) reported that each year there are 1.3 to 4.0 million cases of cholera, with deaths between 21000 to 143000. Cholera transmission is closely linked to inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Typical at-risk areas include peri-urban slums and camps for displaced persons or refugees. In April 2000, a large outbreak of cholera due to Vibrio cholera serotype Ogawa affected the Island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. In Malawi, there were many cholera deaths among refugees, with a case fatality rate of 3.5%, 68% of which mostly occurred within 24 hours of hospital admission. About 10% of the Kenyan population (4.89 million) is living in the 30-combination high-priority sub-counties according to Kenya’s new 2022-2030 Cholera Elimination Plan. In 2005, cholera outbreak struck within the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya;418 people were treated, and 4 persons died. In this Desk Review Paper, we have explored the presentation in the following sub-themes: Introduction, where we talked about sanitation and matters of Migration and Health from the global scale down to Turkana County, Kenya where Kakuma Refugee Camp is located;the influence of health education among migrants and the local communities on cholera prevention and control;the status of sanitation facilities and their use in cholera prevention and control;how the respective health systems are prepared in terms of human resource on cholera prevention and control including tackling emergencies on displaced populations;existing policies and laws governing the socio-economic space of migrants and host communities in Africa and the world. We discovered the need for health stakeholders to respond and strive to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 1, 3, 6, 10 and WHO Triple Billion Targets and, in particular, prevent fecal-oral diseases among forced populations.
文摘In this paper, the dynamical behaviors of a modified Leslie-Gower predator-prey model incorporating fear effect and prey refuge are investigated. We delve into the construction of the model and its biological significance, with preliminary results encompassing positivity, boundedness, and persistence. The stability of the system’s boundary and positive equilibrium points is proven by calculating the real part of the eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrix. At the positive equilibrium point, we demonstrate that the system’s unique positive equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable by using the Dulac criterion. Furthermore, at this equilibrium point, we employ the Implicit Function Theorem to discuss how fear effects and prey refuges influence the population densities of both prey and predators. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to validate the above-mentioned conclusions and explored the impact of Predator-taxis sensitivity αon dynamics of the system.
文摘Objectives:To assess the outcomes of the intensive care of Syrian refugees under temporary protection (SRUTP). Methods: The sample of the study was composed of 110 SRUTP patients who were treated at a tertiary intensive care unit (ICU) between 2013 and 2019 in Istanbul, Turkey. Baseline information and clinical data of the patients were collected by scanning the hospital's electronic database and clinical decision support system. Results:The mean length of ICU stay was 97.6 (36.3-187.8) h. Among the patients, 71 (64.5%) had comorbid diseases, and ICU mortality was 40%. The median cost of health care for each patient was 2144 (1060-4471) USD, and the total health care cost of all patients was 534012USD. Conclusions: Use of vasoactive drug, hemodialysis application, and low Glasgow Coma Scale scores are independent risk factors of the mortality. More researches are needed to clearly reveal the health and cost consequences of war.
文摘The refugee determination system directly affects whether or not an asylum seeker can obtain a country’s legal protection. The rational construction of China’s refugee determination system is not only the need to comply with China’s obligations under the International Refugee Convention, but also the requirement for the protection of the legitimate rights of refugees in China. Under the current framework of international law and domestic law, we should gradually improve China’s legal system of refugee status determination, and we should determine refugee screening agencies and define their division of labor and powers rationally, according to the actual situation of China. In the meantime, we should attach importance to undertaking China’s international obligations and strengthening international cooperation in refugee relief.
文摘AIM: To assess the prevalence of hepatitis B and C serological markers in a population of refugees living in Athens.METHODS: One hundred and thirty refugees (81 males and 49 females, mean age ±SD: 31.7±8 years) were included in the study. The hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg),the hepatitis B virus core antibody (anti-HBc) and the hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) were detected using a third-generation immunoassay.RESULTS: Twenty individuals (15.4%) were HBsAg positive and 69 (53.1%) were anti-HBc positive. The prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HBc was higher among refugees from Albania and Asia (statistical significant difference, P＜0.008 and P＜0.001 respectively). The prevalence of these markers was found irrelevant to age or sex. Anti-HCV was detected in the serum of 3 individuals (2.3 %). No differences among age, sex or ethnicity regarding anti-HCV prevalence were found.CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that refugees living in Athens are an immigrant population characterized by a high incidence of HBV infection. The prevalence of HBV markers is higher among refugees from Albania and Asia. It is therefore believed that the adherence to general precautions and the initiation of HBV vaccination programs will be necessary in the future, especially in these communities.Although the prevalence of HCV infection seems to be relatively low, extended epidemiological surveys are needed to provide valid results.
文摘Background:The German Military Medical Service contributed to the medical screening of unaccompanied minor refugees(UMRs)coming to Germany in 2014 and 2015.In this study,a broad range of diagnostic procedures was applied to identify microorganisms with clinical or public health significance.Previously,those tests had only been used to screen soldiers returning from tropical deployments.This instance is the first time the approach has been studied in a humanitarian context.Methods:The offered screenings included blood cell counts,hepatitis B serology and microscopy of the stool to look for protozoa and worm eggs as well as PCR from stool samples targeting pathogenic bacteria,protozoa and helminths.If individuals refused certain assessments,their decision to do so was accepted.A total of 219 apparently healthy male UMRs coming from Afghanistan,Egypt,Somalia,Eritrea,Syria,Ghana,Guinea,Iran,Algeria,Iraq,Benin,Gambia,Libya,Morocco,Pakistan,and Palestine were assessed.All UMRs who were examined at the study department were included in the assessment.Results:We detected decreasing frequencies of pathogens that included diarrhoea-associated bacteria[Campylobacter(C.)jejuni,enteropathogenic Escherichia(E.)coli(EPEC),enterotoxic E.coli(ETEC),enteroaggregative E.coli(EAEC),enteroinvasive E.coli(EIEC)/Shigella spp.),Giardia(G.)duodenalis,helminths(comprising Schistosoma spp.,Hymenolepis(H.)nana,Strongyloides(S.)stercoralis]as well as hepatitis B virus.Pathogenic microorganisms dominated the samples by far.While G.duodenalis was detected in 11.4%of the assessed UMRs,the incidence of newly identified cases in the German population was 4.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.Conclusion:We conclude that the applied in-house PCR screening systems,which have proven to be useful for screening military returnees from tropical deployments,can also be used for health assessment of immigrants from the respective sites.Apparently healthy UMRs may be enterically colonized with a broad variety of pathogenic and apathogenic microorganisms.Increased colonization rates,as shown for G.duodenalis,can pose a hygiene problem in centralized homes for asylum seekers.
基金Financial support from the National Hi-tech Research and Development Program of China is much appreciated
文摘A stiffened cylindrical shell is normally used in refuge chambers of a coal mine. Based on the method of application and shape characteristics of a refuge chamber, we simplified its shell as an orthotropic cylinder. The basic buckling equation of the stiffened cylindrical shell under uniform axial compression was deduced by using a Donnell function. The factors affecting its buckling capacity were studied by theoretical analysis and numerical calculations. The results reveal that the torsional rigidity of the longitudinal stiffener had little effect on the buckling capacity of the shell and that the critical load of an externally stiffened cylindrical shell is higher than that of an internally stiffened cylindrical shell.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 51174057 and 51274062)the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China (No. 2012AA03A503)Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of China (No. 20130042110040)
文摘The 1,000 MPa ultra-high strength hot-rolled plate steel with low-carbon bainitic microstructure was developed in the laboratory for coal mine refuge chamber. The static recrystallization behavior, microstructure evolution, and mechanical properties of this hot-rolled plate steel were investigated by the hot compression, continuous cooling trans- formation, and tensile deformation test. The results show that the developed steel has excellent mechanical properties at both room and elevated temperature, and its microstructure mainly consists of lath bainite, granular bainite, and ferrite after thermal-mechanical control process （TMCP）. The ultra-high strength plate steel is obtained by the TMCP process in hot rolling, strengthened by bainitic transformation, microstructure refinement, and precipitation of alloying elements such as Nb, Ti, Mo, and Cu. The experimental steel has relatively low welding crack sensitivity index and high atmospheric corrosion resistance index. Therefore, the developed steel has a good balance of strength and ductility both at room and elevated temperature, weldability and corrosion resistance, and it can suffice for the basic demands for materials in the manufacture of coal mine refuge chamber.
文摘Mine refuge chambers are used to shield miners who fail to escape from the mine when incidents occur. Environment maintaining system plays a key role in stabilizing thermal environment of a mine refuge chamber against heat emitted from metabolism and transferred from outside. The safety and comfort of refugees are closely related to the environment maintaining system design. In order to improve the comfort of refugees, optimization on the environment maintaining system has been done based on the previous work. To evaluate the environment of the chamber, eight volunteers were involved into the experiment. Under close observation and safety protection, they lived in a heat-isolated test chamber for 106 hours. The volunteers were asked to maintain low level of activities to simulate refugees＇ situation. It shows that the environment maintaining system worked well and the temperature, relative humidity and emitted harmful air content such as CO2 and CO were all kept in the safety level, and no discomfort was felt by volunteers at all.
基金the Scientific Research Project of Zhejiang Education Department of China (No. Y20108569)the Soft Science Project of Ningbo of China (No. 2011A1058)the Soft Science of Zhejiang Association for Science and Technology of China (No. KX12E-10)
文摘In order to preferably identify infrared image of refuge chamber, reduce image noises of refuge chamber and retain more image details, we propose the method of combining two-dimensional discrete wavelet transform and bilateral denoising. First, the wavelet transform is adopted to decompose the image of refuge chamber, of which low frequency component remains unchanged. Then, three high-frequency components are treated by bilateral filtering, and the image is reconstructed. The result shows that the combination of bilateral filtering and wavelet transform for image denoising can better retain the details which are included in the image, while providing better visual effect. This is superior to using either bilateral filtering or wavelet transform alone. It is useful for perfecting emergency refuge system of coal mines.
文摘As one form of the energy resources, coal is becoming more and more important. Due to the particularity in coal mine production, mine accidents some time occur in countries all over the world, which result in large casualties and economic losses. As equipment that can provides the miners with an emergency shelter when the coal mine accidents occur, the under ground coal mine refuge chamber is paid more and more attention by coal mine enterprises, and the application of the refuge chamber is increasingly widespread. The general functions, the classification, and the successful applications of the underground coal mine refuge chamber are illustrated first, and the research significance on the tmderground coal mine refuge chamber is stated. Following, the development status quo at home and abroad for the refuge chamber is introduced. Then, the implementation methods for the key functions of the underground coal mine refuge chamber are demonstrated. Finally, the prospect for the development of the underground coal mine refuge chamber is stated.
文摘OBJECTIVE: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) provides primary health care services including care for diabetes and hypertension, with limited resources under difficult circumstances in Gaza, West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. A total of 114,911 people with diabetes were registered with UNRWA health centres in 2011. The aim of this cross-sectional observational study was to assess the quality of diabetes care in the UNRWA primary health care centres. METHOD: The study population consisted of 1600 people with diabetes attending the 32 largest UNRWA health centres and treated there for at least one year. Between April and Sept. 2012 data from medical records, including results of clinical examinations and laboratory tests performed during the last one year, current management including self-care education and evidence of diabetes complications were collected and recorded in a previously validated data collection form (DCF). Patients were interviewed and clinically examined on the day of the audit and blood collected for HbA1c testing which was done at a central lab using High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method (HLC®-723G8 Tosoh Corporation, Japan). Data was transferred from paper records into a computer and analysed with Epi-info 2000. RESULTS: Type 1 diabetes was present in 4.3% and type 2 diabetes in 95.7%. Co-morbid hypertension was present in 68.5%;90.3% were either obese (64.0%) or overweight (26.3%). Clinical management of diabetes was largely in line with UNRWA’s technical instructions (TI) for diabetes. Records for 2 hour postprandial glucose (2 h PPG), serum cholesterol, serum creatinine, and urine protein analysis were available in 94.7%, 96.4%, 91.4% and 87.5%, cases, respectively. Records of annual fundoscopic eye examination were available in 47.3% cases but foot examinations were less well documented. Most patients (95.6%) were on anti-diabetic drugs—68.2% oral anti diabetic drugs (OAD) only, 14.4% combination of OAD and insulin, and 12.9% insulin only. While 44.8% patients had 2 h PPG ≤ 180 mg/dl, only 28.2% had HbA1c ≤ 7%;55.5% and 28.2% had BP ≤ 140/90 and ≤130/80 mm of Hg respectively. Serum cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dl, serum creatinine ≥ 1.2 mg/dl and macro albuminuria were noted in 39.8%, 6.4% and 10.3% cases respectively. Peripheral neuropathy (52.6%), foot infections (17%), diabetic retinopathy (11%) and myocardial infarction (9.6%) were the most common long term complications. One or more episodes of hypoglycaemia were reported by 25% cases in total and in 48% of those using insulin. 17.7% and 22.6% cases received no or ≥4 self-care education sessions respectively. CONCLUSION: The study confirmed that UNRWA doctors and nurses follow TI for diabetes and hypertension fairly well. Financial constraints and the consequent effects on UNRWA TI and policies related to diabetes care were important constraints. Key challenges identified were: reliance on 2 h PPG to measure control;non-availability of routine HbA1c testing, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and statins within the UNRWA system;and high levels of obesity in the community. Addressing these will further strengthen UNRWA health system’s efforts of providing services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level. Given that most developing countries either have no or only rudimentary services for diabetes and hypertension at the primary care level, UNRWA’s efforts can serve as an inspiration to others.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.51504251,51404263)the National Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu of China(Nos.BK20140187,BK20130203)+4 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(2015QNB01)the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions(PAPD)the Central Universities Special Funds for Fundamental Research Funds of the China University of Mining and Technology(No.2014ZDPY04)the Innovation Team of CUMT(2014QN001)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK2012571)
文摘The personnel in refuge chamber absorb O_2 and exhale CO_2 all the time. Supplying O_2 and removing CO_2 are the basic function of refuge chamber. After disaster occurs, the supply of the compressed air or oxygen for personnel in refuge chamber is limited. Thus, how to effectively use the compressed air and oxygen and try to improve the time of supply has a great significance. Supplying more oxygen will result in waste, while supplying less oxygen will cause its concentration to be lower, and harm life safety. This research uses the theoretical calculation and numerical simulation, finds critical gas supply for refuge chamber, and illuminates the change law of gas concentration with critical gas supply in refuge chamber,which provides theoretical guidance for effective use of compressed air and oxygen in refuge chamber.
文摘Since 2009,the Mine Safety and Health Administration(MSHA)has required mines to install refuge alternatives(RAs)in underground coal mines.One of the biggest concerns with occupied RAs is the possible severity of the resulting thermal environment.In 30 CFR 7.504,the maximum allowable apparent temperature(AT)for an occupied RA is specified as 35℃(95°F).Manufacturers must conduct heat/humidity tests to demonstrate that their RAs meet the 35℃(95°F)AT limit.For these tests,heat input devices are used to input the metabolic heat of actual miners.A wide variety of test methods,sensors,and heat input devices could be used when conducting such tests.Since 2012,the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health(NIOSH)has conducted over thirty 96-hour heat/humidity tests on four different RAs.This paper discusses the test equipment and procedures used during these investigations.This information is useful for RA manufacturers conducting RA heat/humidity tests,for other researchers investigating RA heat/humidity buildup,and for those who need to assess the thermal environment of any confined space where people may be trapped or are seeking refuge.
文摘Objective:To determine the prevalence of blinding trachoma among refugees in South Western Ethiopia.Methods:A cross-sectional outreach clinic based descriptive study was conducted on 1054 refugees in Southwest Ethiopia.A basic eyelid and cornea examination for signs of trachoma was done by using 2.5× binocular magnifying loupe.The findings were classified by using the World Health Digitization simplified trachoma grading system and data were analyzed by using SPSS version 16.0.Results:A total of 1054 refugee patients were examined for trachoma.179(16.98%) of them had clinical signs of trachoma.About 6(3.35%) patients had active trachoma with trachomatous trichiasis(TT),47(26.26%) patients had TT only and the rest 126(70.39%)patients had TT with trachomatous corneal opacity.All of the trachoma patients had blinding trachoma(TT with or without trachomatous corneal opacity),and about 60.89% of them had visual impairment.Blinding trachoma was significantly more common among females.patients in age group of 16-59 years,married patients,illiterates and Fugnido camp settlers(P<0.05).Conclusions:There is a very high burden of blinding trachoma among refugees.Urgent surgical intervention is needed to prevent blindness and low vision in the study subjects,and targeted regular outreach-based eye care service should be commenced.
基金supported in part by a grant from de Bond van Nederlands Militaire Oorlogs-en dienstslachtoffers(BNMO)
文摘Background: Research indicates that Posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD) has an extensive impact on family relationships. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of empirically supported interventions addressing family functioning and PTSD. In the Netherlands, it is considered good clinical practice to offer multi-family therapy(MFT) to veteran and refugee families. MFT for traumatized families aims to address the dysfunctional family patterns that have evolved to address the consequences with trauma.Methods: The aim of this study is to generate a common framework for the practical impact and active ingredients of MFT in families confronted with trauma. The Delphi method was used to study the expert opinion of 11 therapists in Dutch expert trauma institutes.Results: The results indicate that MFT is a promising treatment for families dealing with the consequences of trauma. According to experts, positive outcomes include an increased understanding between family members,particularly visible in the de-escalation of conflicts within the family, and improved parenting. One explanation for the effectiveness of MFT with these target groups is its defining feature of therapy with several families.Conclusions: The findings support the importance of considering family relationships and the family context in interventions for traumatized individuals.
文摘The effects of the variability of individual prey locomotory performance on the vulnerability to predation are poorly understood,partly because individual performance is difficult to determine in natural habitats.To gain insights into the role(s)of individual variation in predatory relationships,we study a convenient model system,the neotropical sandy beach gastropod Olivella semistriata and its main predator,the carnivorous snail Agaronia propatula.The largest size class of O.semistriata is known to be missing from A.propatula's spectrum of subdued prey,although the predator regularly captures much larger individuals of other taxa.To resolve this conundrum,we analyzed predation attempts in the wild.While A.propatula attacked O.semistriata of all sizes,large prey specimens usually escaped by'sculling',an accelerated,stepping mode of locomotion.Olivella semistriata performed sculling locomotion regardless of size,but sculling velocities determined in the natural environment increased strongly with size.Thus,growth in size as such does not establish a prey size refuge in which O.semistriata is safe from predation.Rather,a behaviorally mediated size refuge is created through the size-dependence of sculling performance.Taken together,this work presents a rare quantitative characterization in the natural habitat of the causal sequence from the size-dependence of individual performance,to the prey size-dependent outcome of predation attempts,to the size bias in the predator's prey spectrum.
