Relief Supplies Research Articles

Unpacking “the surprise chain”: the governance of food security during the COVID-19 pandemic in Melbourne, Australia

AbstractFood systems are being affected by multiple shocks related to climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical events. Food prices and food insecurity are rising globally as a result, raising questions about the effective governance of food security during shocks. This paper critically examines the governance of food security in Melbourne, Australia during a major food system shock, the COVID-19 pandemic. It draws on document analysis and 34 stakeholder interviews with 41 participants from government, industry and civil society between May 2020 and March 2021. The paper examines the role of these actors in governance mechanisms for two important aspects of food system governance during the COVID-19 pandemic, continuity of food supply and delivery of emergency food relief. Clark et al.’s (2021) “governance engagement continuum” is used to show how civil society groups were excluded from these formal governance mechanisms, instead establishing their own spaces of “self-governance”. The resilience aims associated with these governance mechanisms are also analyzed using Zurek et al.’s (2022) “three R’s” (robustness, recovery and reorientation) framework. Our study highlights the significant role of food industry actors in the continuity of food supply and delivery of emergency food relief, and it shows the vulnerabilities of emergency food relief that depends on industry food “surpluses” as a model for addressing food insecurity during food system shocks. We conclude that greater government leadership is needed in the governance of food security during food system shocks, and in implementation of legislative and policy approaches that are grounded in the human right to food.

Maladaptive behaviors in disasters: case study evaluation of Hurricane Hugo, Hurricane Katrina and the Haiti Earthquake.

Maladaptive behaviors during a disaster refer to actions that do not benefit the individual or society. Quarantelli highlights several maladaptive behaviors myths associated with disasters: widespread antisocial behavior, passivity, role conflict or abandonment, and sudden widespread mental health breakdowns (1). Despite early work reporting these myths, the common perception is that maladaptive behaviors such as rioting, looting, panic, and criminal conduct are prevalent in the wake of disasters. This is despite research by de Ville de Goyet and Arnold which has called on public officials and the media to stop propagating false disaster myths (2, 3). The classic academic response has been that this is a misconception and that, in fact, such behaviors are a very small part of the overall disaster and are mostly non-existent. Misconceptions about the prevalence of maladaptive behaviors can lead to inappropriate resource allocation, such as allocating extra police officers to prevent looting when the overall crime rate for the most part, decreases during disasters (4). Furthermore, while there are several persistent maladaptive behaviors myths, this is confounded by the presence of actual negative behaviors post disaster: false damage claims, insurance fraud, illegally obtaining relief supplies, failure to provide contracted repair services, hoarding of essential items, psychological trauma (which can lead to intergenerational transmission of the disaster memory) and medications and price gouging (5).When reading lay-press articles about recent disasters, it appears that these behaviors are on the rise. This raises the question: Has there been a change in the basic human reaction to disasters and are maladaptive behaviors on the rise? This review article focuses on case studies from three natural disasters: Hurricanes Hugo and Katrina, and the Haiti Earthquake. The goal of this review article is to evaluate these three natural disasters for evidence of maladaptive behaviors.

A novel two-stage stochastic programming model to design an integrated disaster relief supply chain network-a case study

A novel two-stage stochastic programming model to design an integrated disaster relief supply chain network-a case study

Optimizing Reserve Decisions in Relief Supply Chains with a Blockchain-Supported Second-Hand E-Commerce Platform

Optimizing Reserve Decisions in Relief Supply Chains with a Blockchain-Supported Second-Hand E-Commerce Platform

Research on the Effective Sheltering Rates of Public Buildings in Villages in Western Sichuan, China—A Case Study of Ganbao Tibetan Village

The western region of Sichuan Province, located in the Hengduan Mountains, is one of China’s most seismically active zones. Due to limited land resources, many villages in western Sichuan Province are situated in mountainous and valley areas, facing harsh climatic conditions, lagging economic development, and insufficient infrastructure. After experiencing seismic disasters, these villages often encounter challenges, such as cut-off mountain roads, difficulties in delivering relief supplies, and sharply a significant drop in nighttime temperatures due to the high-altitude climate. Consequently, in the case of the economic underdevelopment and limited resources, how to repurpose existing buildings for disaster relief has become a crucial issue for disaster prevention and mitigation in these villages. This paper takes Ganbao Tibetan Village, located in the alpine gorge regions of western Sichuan Province, as a case study. It evaluates the interior space utilization status of different types of existing public buildings during disasters, calculates the effective utilization rate of interior space disaster reduction conversion based on the spatial layout model, and extracts the typical interior space dimensions that are conducive to disaster relief and conversion of public buildings based on the interior space utilization characteristics of disaster relief. This study provides a reference for the design of public service buildings considering the requirements of disaster resilience transformation.

A viable relief supply chain network design by considering risk and robustness for disaster and crisis management

A viable relief supply chain network design by considering risk and robustness for disaster and crisis management

On the Rule of Law of the State's Obligation to Supply for the Basic Medical Security Right in China

The implementation of the “Healthy China Strategy” is an important part of the current national basic strategy. Health is also related to the basic survival and development of citizens. The right to health is an important fundamental right of citizens, and the basic medical security right is an important part of it. The basic medical security right is the right to guarantee citizens' basic access to medical care and the right to basic medical services, and is closely related to the right to life, the right to health and the right to social security. The State's obligation to supply for the basic medical security right mainly consists of the material supply obligation and the procedural supply obligation: the material supply obligation may be specific to the supply of medical insurance, medical assistance and medical facilities; and the procedural supply obligation consists of the supply of medical service and medical relief. The State's obligation to supply for the basic medical security right in practice in China mainly faces such practical problems as inadequate legal norms and low hierarchy of legislation, large differences in supply among regions, and low level of supply. In this context, the State's obligation to supply for the basic medical security right should be further improved by, among other things, establishing the legal system of supply governed by the Constitution, formulating scientific supply standards, and developing diversified relief channels. At the same time, in terms of the leading and consistent internal logic, change the logic of legislative thinking from emphasizing the medical security administration in “drafts for comments” to the structured and typified basic medical insurance legal relations, establishing the system of medical security law, and thus promote the rule of law of the basic medical security right.

Null Phase Assumption-Based Technique for Constructing the Target Model of Seismic Irregularity on High-Speed Railways

High-speed railways are “lifeline projects” that shoulder the heavy responsibility of transporting relief supplies and medical forces for the first time after earthquakes. To ensure the train’s safety after earthquakes, it is of great urgency to ascertain a post-earthquake speed threshold. To that end, a target model for seismic irregularity emerges as a key parameter. In this paper, a null phase assumption-based technique for the mutual conversion between evolutionary power spectral density and non-stationary signal was proposed. Taking a high-speed railway track-bridge system as the research object, the target model of seismic irregularities was constructed based on the proposed technique. The rationality of the target model of seismic irregularities was verified, and the construction parameter settings were discussed. Moreover, a simplified frequency-domain fitting method for the target model of seismic irregularities was proposed based on the spectral decomposition theory. According to the research findings, the null phase assumption-based technique is capable of performing interconversion between seismic irregularity and its evolutionary power spectral density with satisfactory accuracy. It is recommended to set the minimum number of seismic irregularities, spatial sampling interval, hop size, and length of window function as 50, 0.25[Formula: see text]m, 1, and 40 to 100, respectively.

Robust optimization model for relief supplies distribution considering fairness

AbstractThe emergency management agency (EMA) needs to distribute limited relief supplies efficiently. However, it is difficult to develop a reliable system for relief supplies distribution owing to the uncertainties in emergencies. This paper investigates a robust multiperiod relief supplies distribution problem that considers the uncertainties of transportation time, the amount of donation amount, and the secondary disasters. First, a satisfaction model is constructed by considering the relief supplies and the transportation time. The negative effect of the delay in transportation time is considered in the satisfaction model. Second, based on the satisfaction model, a comprehensive fairness strategy is constructed that considers both vertical fairness and horizontal fairness. Finally, a relief supplies distribution model is built for the EMA that considers the actions of the non‐governmental organization (NGO) and donors. Both the utility and the fairness are considered in the objective of the proposed model. In numerical experiments, the Wenchuan earthquake is conducted to illustrate the applicability of the model and provide implications for decision‐makers. The results show the benefits of considering both vertical fairness and horizontal fairness. Then the suitable threshold is given by the analysis of the time delay. Finally, managerial insights and recommendations for the EMA and the NGO derived from the numerical experiments are presented. The findings in this paper help improve the reliability of the relief supplies distribution system.

Preparing Vulnerable Communities: Disaster Mitigation Strategies for Economically Depressed Areas in Oklahoma

When disasters strike, vulnerable areas that are economically disadvantaged are adversely affected economically, culturally, and healthily, as the lack of resources and vulnerabilities amplify their problems. This research focuses on the population specifics of disaster vulnerabilities and targeted policies for economically depressed neighborhoods in Oklahoma. Relative to less susceptible entities, poor people are likelier to take damage from tornados, winter storms, wildland fires, and flooding because they lack the resources required for preparation, response, and recovery. Through an equity-focused lens, the study examines four key factors amplifying disaster risk: those due to aging critical infrastructure, lack of insurance and savings, health disparities, or the failure to plan adequately. Collapsed stormwater drainage systems, roads, bridges, and water pipes in financially deprived communities experience cracks in a hurry during duresses. With little or no funds, families earning every paycheck cannot afford to purchase rescue insurance or, in the case of names, save money to build an emergency fund, including money to cover repair costs, temporary housing, and other costs. This is, of course, made even worse by any previously existing medical, disability, or mental health issues as well, with poorer health outcomes than might usually be expected since access to healthcare services, treatments, and medications is also disrupted. Lastly, language and education barriers lead to the lower development of disaster plans; the delays include access to early warning systems and a need for more awareness of risks among vulnerable groups. Given these weaknesses, the study offers policymakers, funders, and resilience practitioner’s implementable policy, investment, and community-oriented intervention recommendations. The hazards can be lessened by prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, insurance reduction, and commitment to spread-out shelters and relief supplies. Long-term recovery programs financed specifically by equal aid promote program equity of rebuilding. Regarding inclusive messaging on public preparation and early warnings, local trusted institutions should be appropriated to reach a diverse population. Collaborative networks among government agencies, relief organizations, businesses, and grassroots associations can bolster response capacity. Their unified efforts on localized resilience initiatives advance strategic plans for the state's most economically fragile neighborhoods. Implementation should focus on those with the highest vulnerability markers and the least ability to prepare, respond, and recover independently— metrics assessing community functionality, equity factors, and recovering spending offer evidence-based progress milestones. With climate change projected to increase disaster severity in Oklahoma, research-driven and equitable resilience policies for marginalized communities can reduce prolonged suffering. Tailored preparation, outreach, critical system backups, and financial support lessen acute shocks and accelerate recovery. However, sustainable policy change relies on addressing root socioeconomic inequalities through systemic interventions beyond immediate disaster management.

A Framework of Grasp Detection and Operation for Quadruped Robot with a Manipulator

Quadruped robots equipped with manipulators need fast and precise grasping and detection algorithms for the transportation of disaster relief supplies. To address this, we developed a framework for these robots, comprising a Grasp Detection Controller (GDC), a Joint Trajectory Planner (JTP), a Leg Joint Controller (LJC), and a Manipulator Joint Controller (MJC). In the GDC, we proposed a lightweight grasp detection CNN based on DenseBlock called DES-LGCNN, which reduced algorithm complexity while maintaining accuracy by incorporating UP and DOWN modules with DenseBlock. For JTP, we optimized the model based on quadruped robot kinematics to enhance wrist camera visibility in dynamic environments. We integrated the network and model into our homemade robot control system and verified our framework through multiple experiments. First, we evaluated the accuracy of the grasp detection algorithm using the Cornell and Jacquard datasets. On the Jacquard dataset, we achieved a detection accuracy of 92.49% for grasp points within 6 ms. Second, we verified its visibility through simulation. Finally, we conducted dynamic scene experiments which consisted of a dynamic target scenario (DTS), a dynamic base scenario (DBS), and a dynamic target and base scenario (DTBS) using an SDU-150 physical robot. In all three scenarios, the object was successfully grasped. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our framework in managing dynamic environments throughout task execution.

Toward a More Diverse and Equitable Food Distribution System: Amplifying Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Food Bank Operations

This article provides an evidence-based discussion of an ongoing effort within the operations of hunger relief organizations to address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by sourcing and distributing more culturally relevant food. Through nearly 100 interviews with food bank personnel in diverse roles (from partner agency relations to executives) representing various regions of the United States, we explore the challenges faced by different functional units within the organization. These interviews indicate a shift to more inclusive language, more personalized metrics, and more inclusive operations. We critically analyze the related literature and identify opportunities for infusing DEI practices in the study of hunger relief supply chains.

A data-driven robust decision-making model for configuring a resilient and responsive relief supply chain under mixed uncertainty

A data-driven robust decision-making model for configuring a resilient and responsive relief supply chain under mixed uncertainty

Design and experimental study of a 300 We class combustion-driven high frequency free-piston Stirling electric generator

Portable electric power generator with a power level of several hundred Watts plays an important role in outdoor activities, emergency relief and tactical power supply. As an external-combustion heat engine with outstanding heat source adaptability, free-piston Stirling generator (FPSG) owns attractive advantages of quietness, high thermal efficiency, and high reliability. This paper proposes a novel ultra-high frequency (UHF) FPSG-based portable power supply system driven by a diesel porous media evaporative combustor (PMEC). An experimental setup was designed and built based on the quasi-one-dimension thermoacoustic impedance matching of the FPSG and three-dimension thermal coupling of steady combustion and alternating flow between FPSG and combustor. The fundamental operating characteristics of the system were investigated in terms of combustion powers and electric loads. Preliminary experimental results show that a maximum output electric power of 350 We at a heating temperature of 875 K and a maximum fuel-to-electric efficiency of 11.98 % were obtained. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were employed to delve into the intricate combustion and heat transfer processes, unveiling the formation of carbon deposits and confirming the efficacy of cyclone holes in reducing carbon deposition. This pioneering exploration of 130 Hz UHF and evaporative-combustion coupled heat transfer successfully showcases the feasibility of constructing a high-specific-power FPSG-based portable power system.

Multi-objective optimization for low hydrogen consumption and long useful life in fuel cell emergency power supply systems

The power system using hydrogen fuel cells (FCs) as the primary energy source holds significant potential for applications in emergency fields such as post-disaster relief and outdoor power supply. The operational environment of the FC emergency power supply system (FCEPSS) is challenging, with long continuous operation time, difficulties in hydrogen supply, high maintenance costs, and, accordingly, requirements for hydrogen consumption and useful life of FCs are heightened. Hence, this paper proposes a multi-objective energy management strategy (EMS) for FCEPSS. First, the structure of FCEPSS is designed based on the demand analysis in emergency scenarios. Then, the hydrogen consumption and life degradation models of FCEPSS are established. Aiming at the multi-objective optimization problem of minimizing hydrogen consumption and life degradation value in the FCEPSS, an improved multi-objective optimization algorithm is proposed. This paper converts complex constraints into the penalty term and incorporates it as one of the objectives, constructing a three-objective optimization model. To enhance the solution of multi-objective optimization problems, an improved strategy based on relaxation-tightening and three-objective sorting is proposed. Combining the fast non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II and the above improved strategy, an improved multi-objective optimization algorithm (IMOOA) is constructed. In the simulation, the advantages of the proposed IMOOA algorithm are verified. In the experimental part, compared with the logical threshold strategy, the proposed strategy saves 0.60% of hydrogen consumption and reduces 5.65% of life degradation within 24 h, respectively. Finally, the superiority of the multi-objective EMS utilizing the IMOOA is demonstrated.

Relief supply prepositioning strategies via option contract reserve fleet vehicles

In preparing for disasters, relief supplies can be prepositioned as tangible forms in warehouses or as intangible forms, such as production capacity. However, the prepositioning of relief supplies in the absence of a sufficient number of vehicles may delay the delivery time and reduce relief operation performance. Budget pressure may prevent local disaster relief authorities from maintaining a large fleet; thus, they may opt for fleet vehicle reserves through an option contract as an alternative. We propose a model for coordinating prepositioned tangible and intangible relief supplies, considering fleet vehicle reserves through an option contract. The objective function includes the reduction of deprivation cost, which considers the suffering of beneficiaries. We obtain the optimal quantity of the prepositioned tangible and intangible supplies and the fleet vehicles. Furthermore, we propose benchmark relief supply prepositioning models without fleet vehicle reserves and compare the performance of the three models. We prove that reserving fleet vehicles can reduce social costs, alleviate the suffering of beneficiaries and increase the profit of the supplier. We examine the applicability of the proposed model through numerical examples.

Correction: coordination mechanism of integrative humanitarian-business partnership for relief supplies with the consideration of public engagement amidst the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic

Correction: coordination mechanism of integrative humanitarian-business partnership for relief supplies with the consideration of public engagement amidst the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic

Disaster relief supply chain network planning under uncertainty

Disaster relief supply chain network planning under uncertainty

Comparative study of robust optimization model of multimaterial emergency logistics in an uncertain environment

AbstractGiven the significance of objective functions in alleviating human suffering within the humanitarian relief supply chain, it is imperative to consider both logistics costs and the cost of deprivation as ideal targets. This study investigates a multimaterial single‐cycle stochastic mixed integer model, integrating uncertainties about post‐disaster demand, supply survival, and road networks. An innovative heuristic approach is used to solve the stochastic facility location problem, which minimizes unfulfilled requests and response times in lexicographic order. This research also compares the cost‐minimization model of the pre‐positioning problem to an alternative model that maximizes demand satisfaction under resource constraints. Empirical validation through numerous case studies and solutions confirms the effectiveness and feasibility of the alternative model. The results of our experiments consistently demonstrate that the best solution provided by the alternative model not only satisfies the minimum cost model but also surpasses the conventional problem, without compromising performance. Consequently, it is crucial to avoid the cost‐minimization approach at the expense of human suffering.

Measuring the shortage cost through deprivation and envy in collaborating contract between the local authority and the enterprise

Collaboration between the local authority and the enterprise is important when facing more frequent disasters and pandemics, and contract design is a key step. However, most designed contracts in relevant studies fail to precisely measure the shortage cost of relief supplies as they ignore the perceptions of victims, i.e., deprivation due to lacking relief supplies and envy due to unequal allocation. To fill the research gap, in this paper, we use the sum of deprivation (measured by deprivation cost, Holguin-Veras et al., 2012) and envy (measured by negative inequity aversion, Fehr and Schmidt, 1999) to calculate the shortage cost in contract design between the local authority and the enterprise. We then analyze three different contexts (i.e., low-risk, high-risk, mixed) based on the background of Covid-19 lock-down in China and conduct a corresponding numerical experiment. The result shows that through a Stackelberg game the local authority and the enterprise can reach an agreement. Furthermore, deprivation and envy have the same effect on the contract design, based on which the local authority will decrease the relief items shortage to mitigate the suffering of victims, thus represents a ‘people-centered’ idea.