In public opinion triggered by rumors, the authenticity of the information remains uncertain, and the main topic oscillates between diverse opinions. In this paper, a nonlinear oscillator model is proposed to demonstrate the public opinion triggered by rumors. Based on the model and actual data of one case, it is found that a continuous flow of new information about rumors acts as external forces on the system, probably leading to the chaotic behavior of public opinion.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAsia Pac J Public Health
March 2015
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and to identify associated risk factors among migrant workers 4 years after the 2008 snowstorm in China. A cross-sectional survey of 528 respondents was conducted to collect data in Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province. A multistage cluster sampling method was applied in selecting subjects from migrant workers' gathering areas.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjective: To determine the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and to identify the associated risk factors among elderly citizens belonging to the Qiang ethnic minority group 3 years after the Wenchuan earthquake in China.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 287 respondents aged 60 years and older was conducted to collect data in Beichuan County, a heavily damaged area. PTSD was assessed according to the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition.