bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Animation To Improve The Students' Academic Achievement On Bipolar Junction Transistor
Authors: Zoabi W. , Sabag N. , Gero A.
Published: February 2016

Teaching abstract subjects to students studying towards a degree in electronics practical engineering (a degree between a technician and an engineer) requires didactic tools that enable understanding of issues without using advanced mathematics and physics. One basic issue is the BJT (Bipolar Junction Transistor) that requires preliminary knowledge of semiconductor basics and modern physics, which is not addressed in the curriculum. Existing teaching methods reinforce students' tendency to use familiar formulas, without discussing the BJT internal structure and without comprehending the nature of the current. Therefore, it is not surprising that students do not understand the manner in which the current flows in a device that can be described as two back-to-back diodes. This article shows preliminary results of a study in which a computer animation was developed in order to depict the dynamic processes in BJT, and compares the academic achievements of students who learned BJT via animation to those who learned via static diagrams. 41 students were randomly divided into two groups, 21 students in the experimental group and 20 students in the control group. The experimental group received explanations including animation while the control group received traditional explanations using a blackboard but no animation. A comparison was made between the students' achievements in both groups via a pretest. After learning about BJT, a posttest and new comparison was conducted. The comparison referred to two categories: A. Total score on the test; B. Score on questions that require higher level of thinking. The pretest results showed no significant difference between the groups’ achievement. In contrast the results of the posttest were significant, showing a 12-point advantage in the average total score, and about a 14-point advantage in the average on higher level thinking questions in the experimental group as opposed to control group. Thus, while the results of the study are preliminary, it is encouraging and important to present the results.
Voices From The United Arab Emirates: Engineering Graduates’ Labour Market Requisite Competencies
Authors: EL-Sakran Tharwat M. , Awad Asmaa
Published: February 2016

This study reports on engineering graduates’ labour market requisite communication competences and skills in the work environment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Its main purpose was to investigate whether internationally required engineering graduates’ communication competences were the same in third world countries or different. It used a survey to collect responses from major engineering companies operating in the seven emirates federation forming the UAE. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with some of the participants to seek clarifications on some of the survey responses. Results indicted similar market demands to those reported in international research with differences in preferences and ranking of competences. The conclusions reported are based on the responses given in the surveys. Future research may follow up some engineering graduates and find out how they perform in labor market environments. The findings show that although engineering labor market demands are in line with global market demands, they; nevertheless, indicate differences in the ranking and importance of the required competences and skills. This has significant implications for engineering course designers.
Using Instant Feedback System And Micro Exams To Enhance Active Learning
Authors: Sabag N. , Kosolapov S.
Published: February 2016

This paper presents the outcomes of the preliminary survey in which the method of IFS was used to integrate motivating questions into the lecture presentations in order to increase the students' involvement. Instant Feedback System (IFS) enables the educators to improve their own teaching by getting instant and real-time feedback about how clear the lesson for the students is; it also advances the students' participation and active involvement that improves the understanding of the learned materials. Our long term objectives are to conduct a series of studies to explore both technological and didactic aspects of integrating the IFS system into engineering education. As a first step in our long journey, we designed a new academic course of analog electronics with motivating questions embedded. A ten minute micro exam was conducted every three weeks, during the lesson. The students expressed opinions like:" my recommendation is to keep teaching this way. I believe in active learning during the lectures, it motivates me to come and participate in the lectures." And: "It drives the students to participate in all the lectures of the course. The motivating questions and the micro exams are an efficient tool to bring the students into the lectures." Half of the students chose to participate in one micro exam at least while the other half did not; the academic achievements of the motivated group showed a 26 points advantage in comparison to the other group. The lecturer's conclusions and his perceptions are described in this paper as well.
Authority In Engineering Education
Authors: Stephan Karl D.
Published: February 2016

Authority as a philosophical concept is defined both in general and as it applies to engineering education. Authority is shown to be a good and necessary part of social structures, in contrast to some cultural trends that regard it as an unnecessary and outmoded evil. Technical, educational, and organizational authority in their normal functions in engineering education are described, and challenges to these types of authority in the form of laws, accreditation changes, and the rise of the discipline of engineering education research are detailed. The principle of subsidiarity (basically, devolution of authority to the lowest feasible level) is applied to the issue of authority in engineering education organizations.
Exciting Young Students In Grades K-8 About STEM Through An Afterschool Robotics Challenge
Authors: Karp Tanja , Maloney Patricia
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we describe the successful implementation of an afterschool LEGO robotics program for elementary and middle school students that is annually offered by the Whitacre College of Engineering at Texas Tech University. Three events are held on campus: the kickoff, a trial run, and the competition, spread over a period of eight weeks. In between the events, participants design their LEGO robots at the school, mostly during afterschool clubs. Through our program, we broaden the participation in hands-on robotics tasks which apply STEM concepts to groups that otherwise might not have the opportunity. Success factors of our implementation are the flexibility of the implementation at the local level, the inclusion of engineering students as mentors and volunteers, and the low cost for organizers and participants. We provide evidence that we have reached a diverse student population in grades K-8 and positively changed their attitudes toward STEM, then we report the benefits that teachers see in regular participation in the event. Finally, we describe the benefit of involving engineering undergraduate students as mentors and volunteers.
Exposing Engineering Students To Renewable Energy Through Hands-On Experiments
Authors: Yang Yonggao , Li Lin
Published: February 2016

Renewable energy is the most rapidly growing discipline in today’s business world and is commonly viewed as the main arena for research and development in various fields. This article summarizes the work and efforts of an educational project conducted at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU). A major goal of the project was to design renewable energy laboratories and expose engineering students to clean energy technologies. Through this project, the investigators engaged students in renewable energy applications through hands-on experiments, encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration, and better prepared students to enter the energy workforce. Meanwhile, the project also benefited engineering educators by exploring effective teaching methods in energy education.
Introducing Creativity In A Design Laboratory For A Freshman Level Electrical And Computer Engineering Course
Authors: Burkett Susan L. , Kotru Sushma , Lusth John C. , McCallum Debra , Dunlap Sarah
Published: February 2016

In the electrical and computer engineering (ECE) curriculum at The University of Alabama, freshmen are introduced to fundamental electrical concepts and units, DC circuit analysis techniques, operational amplifiers, circuit simulation, design, and professional ethics. The two credit course has both lecture and laboratory components that address these topics. The laboratory has been used, in this project, to provide students an experience in design. In one of the laboratory assignments, students work in teams to design and build products giving attention to both function and aesthetics. Creativity is an important attribute for engineers practicing their profession in a global society. The creative process was exercised in the design lab by progressively engaging students through various stages including: brainstorming, formation of a construction plan, producing schematic representations, and implementing their design. In a two- year period, four laboratory exercises were developed to provide design experiences in our introductory ECE course. Assessment results show that the majority of students enjoy several aspects of the laboratory on design and creativity. At the same time, they consider this lab to be one of the most difficult ones due to its open-ended nature. Students who experienced the creative lab were somewhat more likely to state they would continue in their major. Overall, the project team concluded that the creative lab was valuable and did raise awareness of the creative process.
Alternative Pathways To Engineering Success –Using Academic And Social Integration To Understand Two-Year Engineering Student Success
Authors: Marra Rose M. , Tsai Chia-Lin , Bogue Barbara , Pytel Jean Landa
Published: February 2016

The need for educating engineers in the United States continues as the projected demand is still rising as the number of high school seniors planning to enter engineering careers has remained relatively stable (Sargent, 2014). Additionally, figures show that attrition rates in undergraduate engineering continue to be an area of concern, (Sargent, 2014; Gibbons, 2005; NSF, 2004). Given the projected increased demand for engineers, the engineering education community must explore a variety of pathways for engineering students to be successful. Organizations such as National Science Foundation (Laanan, Jackson, Darrow, 2010) have noted that beginning engineering study at a two-year campus and then transferring to an engineering bachelor’s degree-granting institution is an important path and source for additional engineering students. Although some have explored the logistical issues and curricular design components of two-year campuses that enables engineering students to complete their bachelor degrees elsewhere, there is very little that explores the non-curricular factors on these campuses that help such students successfully progress (Laanan, et al., 2010). Using Tinto’s theory of integration (1975, 1993), this study examines the relationship between student entry characteristics and measures of social and academic integration to engineering learning outcomes. Understanding how integration factors on two-year campuses impact engineering student success can be used to inform the design of curricular and campus-based experiences that support the success of engineering students on two-year campuses.  Results indicate the social and academic integration factors significantly predict engineering students’ learning outcomes, especially their commitment to engineering studies.
College Students And HIV/AIDS Awareness
Authors: Iconis Rosemary
Published: February 2016

More than half of all new HIV infections occur among individuals under 25 years of age. Though knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS, many college students still practice high-risk behaviors. Consequently, colleges and universities must be vigilant when it comes to intervention strategies.
Grade Inflation In Clinical Stage
Authors: Susmarini Dian , Sri Hayati Yati
Published: February 2016

Grade inflation is a condition when there is an increase of grade point average without the same increase in students’ ability. Grade inflation also occurs in nursing education that needs to be solved since its existence is threatening nursing professionalism. The case shows that the average grade for subjects in clinical stage is close to the maximum point, while the average grade in academic stage is in normal distribution. In this qualtitative research, six clinical facilitators from six different nursing programs were included. The participants were asked regarding the presence of grade inlfation in their institutions. Further, the gap between grade in academic and clinical stages were questioned the factor(s) that make the different, how real the given grade reflect students’ ability, the impact of it to the students and all related elements, and the action to solve this problem. The factors which cause grade inflation in universities especially in nursing are related to the whole aspect of learning and teaching. They are including the institution or nursing program, the faculty, the students and the grading system. The implication of grade inflation among nursing students can be both short and long term such as student’s disatisfaction and their career once they graduated. The process of measuring students’ clinical performance can be made such as evaluation method, number of clinical facilitator, the ability to use evaluation instrument, and the grading system.
The Financial And Cost Accounting Implications Of The Increased Role Of Advanced Nurse Practitioners In U.S. Healthcare
Authors: Carruth Paul J. , Carruth Ann K.
Published: February 2016

On March 23, 2010, the Affordable Care Act became law. The need for healthcare reform was prompted by an imperative to reduce the relentless increase in spending on medical care in the United States. One approach to examining and solving the problem of escalating costs is to focus on applying proven principles of evidence-based practice and cost-effectiveness practices to find the least-expensive way to ensure clinical services of acceptable quality without sacrificing patient satisfaction. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) have positioned themselves to serve an integral role in national health care reform. A successful transformation of the nation's health system will require utilization of all clinicians, including highly qualified APRNs, to provide cost- effective, accessible, patient-centered care. There is extensive, consistent evidence that nurse practitioners (NPs) provide care of equal or better quality at lower cost than comparable services provided by other qualified health professionals. However, current policies in many states prevent NPs from practicing within their full, legally defined scopes of practice. The Office of Technology Assessment's conclusions noted in 1981 that APRNs can be substituted for physicians in a significant portion of medical services with at least similar outcomes. Since then, numerous studies have supported that the care provided is equal to those provided by physicians for services within the overlapping scopes of licensed practice. This paper combines economic analysis with review of literature on health care reform initiatives to explore how the goals of healthcare reform can be accomplished by advanced nurse practitioners to provide their wide range of services directly to patients in a variety of clinical settings.
The Determinants Of Job Satisfaction Among Registered Nurses
Authors: Kalist David E. , Okoye Ifeakandu N.
Published: February 2016

This study empirically examines the determinants of registered nurses' job satisfaction. Our results indicate that the most satisfied nurse is a young CRNA who is female, married, and not in a union. The profile of the least satisfied nurse is a staff nurse who is male, non-married, unionized, and earns a low salary and works many hours.
Expanding Access To Rural Healthcare Services And Benefits Through Secure, Interactive Video Links: A Case Study Of Video Claims Taking Implementation In The Great Plains
Authors: Harsell Dana Michael , Harsell Christine Carlascio , Wood Robert S.
Published: February 2016

Context: Between 2003 and 2008, the University of North Dakota Center for Rural Service Delivery (RSD) increased access to a number of vital government services for citizens in rural communities and Native American reservations through the Video Claims Taking (VCT) program, which allowed claimants in rural healthcare settings to apply for benefits over secure interactive video networks to distant government offices. VCT helped increase healthcare reimbursement, social and related public service benefits to 31 underserved communities in six states and leveraged a significant increase in applications for government services and monetary benefits to these communities. Methods: A case-study examines the implementation, use and impact of the VCT technology over the RSD’s five year operation. Findings: The authors offer five principal findings which center on the relationships between government agencies and rural claimants, some cultural considerations posed by this electronic form of service delivery, the program’s potential to realize certain efficiencies, the technical challenges faced during implementation and overcoming a number of organizational and communications barriers. Conclusions: The foregoing analysis of the RSDs initiative and its VCT program contributes to a better understanding of how to leverage an interactive video platform to provide government healthcare reimbursement services to underrepresented groups in rural contexts for public agencies and private healthcare providers that are interested in adopting a similar model of service delivery to their stakeholders
Examining The Effectiveness Of Interventions Designed To Increase Mammography Adherence Among African American Women
Authors: Knowlden Adam P. , Sharma Manoj
Published: February 2016

The objective of this paper was to assess and synthesize the key findings, conclusions, and recommendations of mammography interventions targeting African American women conducted between 1999 and 2010. Collection of materials for this study included searches of academic databases using the following inclusion criteria: 1) publication in the English language, 2) between 1999 and 2010, 3) conducted in the United States, 4) targeting African American women. Titles and abstracts of identified studies were evaluated independently by two researchers. A total of 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. Interventions were categorized as either practice-based or community-based. Classifications were then sub-categorized based on the employment of targeted or tailored strategies. Culturally-appropriate tailored and targeted messages are an effective approach to increase screening mammography adherence. Community-wide interventions that employ lay health advisors were found to assist in offsetting issues related to trust and access. Interventions delivered in faith-based settings were effective mediums for increasing adherence to screening guidelines. Stepped-care interventions were an efficient, cost-effective method for increasing adherence among non-compliant populations. The majority of the identified studies relied upon theoretical frameworks to guide the intervention. Community-based interventions should progress from atheoretical to theory-based intervention frameworks.
Interprofessional Education In Healthcare: Establishing A Successful Dialogue For Students And Faculty
Authors: Goldberg Lynette R. , Mosack Victoria , Brickell Jean
Published: February 2016

Effective healthcare today is built on interprofessional, population- and evidence-based approaches to provide care that is safe, timely, equitable, patient-centered, and efficient. As a result, there is increasing recognition by faculty, administrators, and community professionals of the importance of providing students with ongoing opportunities to problem-solve and learn together in interprofessional teams. In order to document baseline data on the interprofessional activities underway in a College of Health Professions, faculty and staff in each of the College’s departments completed a published survey, Interprofessional Education Assessment and Planning Instrument for Academic Institutions. Faculty comments showed they viewed interprofessional education and collaborative clinical practice as important. However, survey data showed interprofessional education generally was limited to discipline-specific activities. Data were important in encouraging faculty to begin a productive dialogue as to how interprofessional education opportunities could be implemented more effectively for students.
Health Care Reform: Why Not Best Practices?
Authors: Matthews Robert B. , Jenkins G. Keith , Robertson Joey
Published: February 2016

The passage of the Affordable Care Act (“ACA” or “Obamacare”) in 2010 promises to bring about significant changes in the way that health care is provided and paid for in the United States of America (USA). Supporters of ACA point to a 2000 WHO study of worldwide health care systems in which the USA ranked 37th as justification for proposed changes, and many of them have expressed a preference for ultimately implementing a single-payer or single-provider system (such as currently exists in Canada or the United Kingdom). Detractors, who generally label the act Obamacare, have expressed concerns about whether the act can achieve its stated objectives, whether it represents a negative step instead of a positive one, and whether the ultimate goal of a single-payer or single-provider system is desirable one or even an achievable one. In the context of the ongoing debate over health care in the USA, this paper reviews the WHO study and subsequent comparative analyses of world health care systems to address the following questions:Does the USA really have the 37th best health care system in the world?Does either a “single-payer” health care system or a “single-provider” health care system offer prospects for significant improvement?What model or models for delivery of health care services represent “best practices” and how can and should they be emulated?
Risk Management For Health Information Security And Privacy
Authors: Murtaza Mirza B.
Published: February 2016

The challenge of securing large amounts of electronic medical records stored in a variety of forms and in many locations, while still making it available to authorized users, is huge. Pressure to maintain privacy and protection of personal information is a strong motivating force in the development of security policies. It is essential for health care organizations to analyze, assess and ensure security policies to meet these challenges and to develop the necessary policies to ensure the security of medical information.
Millennial Graduate Students’ Use Of Technology And Problem-Based Learning To Enhance Higher-Level Cognition In Health Promotion Program Planning
Authors: Matthews June , Dworatzek Paula
Published: February 2016

As Millennials, current graduate students are very familiar with technology. To engage these students in their learning, we incorporated higher-level cognitive processes and knowledge dimensions into our course objectives. We also asked students to use a novel on-line tool to complete their major assignment. Using problem-based learning and a population health approach, students collaboratively developed a multi-strategy university peer nutrition education program. Over a three-year period, each class used the Online Health Program Planner, a freely-available, web-based, interactive collection of health promotion planning tools. This practical application of course content enabled students to develop and practice core competencies in public health. Students’ anonymous evaluations revealed that working with their colleagues on projects that would be used in a real-life setting “gave meaning to their work and motivated them to do their best”. They believed that they learned more from this assignment than traditional class projects. They were surprised by the complexity involved in developing a comprehensive program, and learned to think critically about outcomes. Some students wanted more guidance throughout the project, reflecting challenges students often face during problem- based learning; however, this also facilitated their learning at a higher level. These field experiences pushed students outside their comfort zones and promoted deeper learning than is possible through lectures alone. Other educators may find this type of project, in which experiential and problem-based learning were enhanced by comprehensive learning objectives and the use of a novel on-line tool, to be an appropriate transition from graduate school to professional practice.
Emotional Intelligence As A Potential Underlying Mechanism For Physical Activity Among Malaysian Adults
Authors: Omar Dev Roxana Dev , Ismail Ismi Arif , Omar-Fauzee Mohd. Sofian , Abdullah Maria Chong , Geok Soh Kim
Published: February 2016

As we all know the benefits of physical activity (PA) on physical and mental health are well established. However, inactivity among adults in Malaysia is still prevalent. This study examined whether emotional intelligence (EI) was one of the possible underlying psychological mechanisms that may be associated with the current low levels of PA adherence. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to examine whether EI plays a role as the potential underlying mechanism of PA behaviour among Malaysian adults. A total of 172 supporting staffs were recruited at a local Malaysian university. It was found that supporting staffs with higher physical activity in a week had better total EI scores and composite subscale scores. The findings of this study provide further support on the claims that there is a positive relationship between increased levels of EI and physical activity. Thus, the importance of higher emotional intelligence is critical in helping to bombard the sedentary lifestyle and inactivity among Malaysian adults. Therefore, training programs for university staffs in emotional intelligence skills is seen to be one of the upmost important agenda that should be looked at in the public sectors to help in promoting exercise and physical activity participation. It is highly recommended that the programs should be targeted at the maximum level towards individual who were sedentary and low active.
Improving The Slovenian Healthcare System By Examining Other European Healthcare Systems
Authors: Cankar Stanka Setnikar , Petkovsek Veronika
Published: February 2016

This paper focuses improving the Slovenian healthcare system by comparing it with the systems in place in the UK, Denmark, and France. The aim of the paper is to find and present the solutions required if the healthcare system in Slovenia is to be improved. Changes need to be made to the organisation, management, and financing of the Slovenian healthcare system in response to demographic changes and changes to the age structure of the population, the rapid development of new medical technologies, drugs, treatments, and globalisation. The paper outlines the main features of the Slovenian healthcare system and compares the structure of public and private expenditure and resources with the structures in place in the UK, Denmark, and France. Public and private healthcare providers and public-private partnerships in Slovenian healthcare are also presented and compared. An insight is given at the end of the paper into the current state of the Slovenian healthcare system and the required changes, with solutions proposed for improvements and reform. The proposed solutions include redefinition of an insured person’s status, changes to the insurance basis and rates, a redefinition of the basic basket of healthcare rights, the integration and networking of public healthcare institutions, and the separation of public and private healthcare providers.
Increasing Competency In Health Science Education: Introspection
Authors: Ghosh Sushmita
Published: February 2016

Before health science can play its expected role, health science education needs to be looked at critically and revamped. This area of education needs immediate attention for positive and effective change. This paper is based on observations, deliberations, and supportive findings across the US system of science education. However, with globalization, a lot of it is applicable to other countries. Health science education has been categorized into three categories: Health Science Education in School; in College; And, Beyond College. The paper raises more questions that we need to find workable answers to. It does not, in anyway, claim to provide the best solution, the only answer, or the end to all discussion and development for improvement.
Linking Theory To Practice: Experiential Learning In An Employee Wellness Practicum
Authors: Scovill Sallie M. , Waite Matthew D.
Published: February 2016

Engaging students in a process that connects real world experience with their course of study is well documented in the literature as a pedagogy linked with experiential learning. This paper is a case study of an experiential learning (EL) process in a practicum course in Employee Wellness. This case study describes how this unique program follows an EL model where students work together to manage an on-campus wellness programs for employees at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point.
Family Member Needs Of Autistic Children
Authors: Obaid Majeda Al Sayyed , Al-Kadoumi Khawla
Published: February 2016

For the families in this study, the problems of parenting a child with autism, and their means of coping with it, have changed over time. The total number of coping strategies reported by parents declined and there was a general shift away from problem-focused towards emotion-focused means of coping. In particular, the reliance on service providers has declined and the relative importance of religion and other coping strategies such as an appreciation of their child’s good qualities have increased. The reasons for these changes may reflect both the changing problems of the children and the services currently available for their treatment. In fact, most of the children have improved over time as they have become less disrupted and more orderly in their habits.
The Impact Of Transformational Leadership In Burnout Of Nurses And Doctors In A Public Hospital Of Mexico
Authors: Garcia-Rivera Blanca Rosa , Alejandro Mendoza-Martinez Ignacio Alejandro , Ramirez-Baron Maria Concepcion
Published: February 2016

This study analyzes the relationship between supervisors’ leadership styles and subordinates’ experience of burnout. We tested relationships between transformational, transactional and non leadership styles and facets of burnout (i.e., emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment), using the Bass and Avolio and Maslach Models, while controlling for subordinates’ demographics and hierarchical level. We applied the MLQ and MBI questionnaires to a sample of 102 employees in a Mexican Public Hospital to Doctors and Nurses. Our Structural Equations Models determined that inverse significant correlations were found between the different leadership subscales and burnout, excepting with those of the Laissez Faire, being positive. The theoretical and empirical findings of previous studies of the Model of Bass and Avolio, as well as of the Model of Maslach were reaffirmed; the subscale of depersonalization was eliminated. The reliability coefficients Alpha of Cronbach were higher than, 70 in all the variables.
Dual MBA/Medical Degrees For Doctors
Authors: Tansey Michael M. , El-Sawi Nehad I.
Published: February 2016

With the dramatic changes ushered in by managed care with the promise of even more change with new policies and medical budget pressures, medical schools face the challenge of adapting curricula to prepare physicians for the new demands of health care delivery. Medical students have different tolerances for learning management skills, but medical schools are finding persistent demand for dual degree programs which deliver such skills from a core of students - in some schools amounting to as much as 10% of the medical school students. Over the last two decades, the number of medical schools offering a dual medical/MBA program has expanded from less than 10% to nearly 50% of U.S. medical schools, both for Allopathic and Osteopathic medicine. Schools which had already offered dual medical/MPH programs were particularly likely to add the dual medical/MBA degrees. While schools are learning how to realize the advantages for the few students who undertake dual degrees, they still face a monumental task to reach the rest of the students.
Mobile Marketing: Applications And Implications For Physicians In Private Practice
Authors: Resch Peter M. , Tena Marta
Published: February 2016

The rapid proliferation of mobile technologies and mobile devices has resulted in an increase in the importance of mobile marketing and has captured the interest of academic researchers from a wide variety of disciplines. Due to its unique characteristics, mobile marketing is playing an increasingly significant role in marketing communication and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) efforts of organizations in various industries and professions. As mobile technologies and applications continue to evolve, the resulting opportunities for their increased use in the health care sector at large, and within specific sectors in the industry, are poised to increase significantly in coming years. Specifically, this paper explores the primary applications and implications of mobile marketing for physicians in private practice. Some of the key questions and challenges associated with the integration of mobile technologies by physicians in private practice are investigated and suggestions are made for future research directions.
The Partnership Model For Service-Learning Programs: A Step-By-Step Approach
Authors: Flinders Brooke A. , Nicholson Louis , Carlascio Allison , Gilb Katelyn
Published: February 2016

Service-Learning is a hot topic in higher education today, but the importance of streamlining processes for community service will never go out of style. Generally, universities, faculty, communities, and students value the concept of civic engagement. However, it is challenging for educators to provide meaningful service, which offers valuable learning opportunities, while trying to meet academic expectations of rigor and research. The Partnership Model for Service- Learning provides a visual framework for organizing sustainable programs and leads to collective impact. It is a model that “ties it all together”, seamlessly connecting teaching, scholarship, and service. In addition to a step-by-step framework for constructing a service-learning program, this article presents case examples to illustrate the differences between “project-based” and “program-based” pedagogical approaches. Finally, student-perceived impacts of service-learning are quantified, via Likert scale, in the associated areas (Callister and Hobbins-Garbett, 2000), of personal satisfaction, impact on professional development, critical thinking, awareness of unmet community needs, and feelings of preparedness for practice, for both the project-based and program-based case examples.
Stress, Anxiety, Depression And Psychological Responses Among African Americans: Empirical Investigation And Coping Strategies
Authors: Gilmore Adrienne D. , Osho G. Solomon , Heads Angela B.
Published: February 2016

This study examined the impact of stress by exploring the relationship between coping strategies and psychological responses such as stress, anxiety and depression among African American women in the academic setting. Research suggests African American women’s coping strategies have an impact on their academic performance. Findings in this study were consistent with previous research that supports a complex coping strategy. Examination of emotion-oriented, task-oriented, and avoidance coping strategies provided insight into the various coping strategies. Avoidance coping strategies were further divided into social diversion and distraction. African- American women who reportedly experienced high levels of stress and low levels of anxiety and depression used a combination of coping strategies. Emotional-oriented coping was found positively correlated with anxiety and depression. Task-oriented and avoidance coping were also correlated with lower levels of anxiety and depression.
Household Electrosmog
Authors: Abdul-Razzaq Wathiq , Bushey Ryan K.
Published: February 2016

Electromagnetic wave energy is prevalent in the environment and is generated by numerous sources. This invisible electromagnetic wave/radiation pollution is termed Electrosmog. When exposed to this electromagnetic energy, health effects in humans have been observed and subsequent standards for emission have been set. A common household appliance that generates this energy is the microwave oven. This study evaluates the intensity of electromagnetic radiation leakage from microwave ovens subject to standard exposure levels and the possibility of biological effects at levels below the standards. We have taken the exposure levels into account in an effort to generate comparisons between microwave ovens according to their age. These comparisons have allowed us to create awareness of the possibility of harmful levels of electromagnetic radiation in our homes.
From The Editor-In-Chief
Authors: McSweeney-Feld Mary Helen
Published: February 2016

The American Journal of Health Sciences (AJHS) welcomes articles in the field of health sciences and related fields. This journal publishes papers that significantly contribute to the understanding of the health sciences. Using a wide range of research methods including statistical analysis, analytical work, case studies, field research and historical analysis, articles examine significant research questions from a broad range of perspectives. The goal of AJHS is to publish papers devoted to the dissemination of health science practice, research, and education knowledge. AJHS is a widely cited, completely open access journal that is an essential for health sciences education professionals and practitioners. Article topics may include but are not limited to all aspects of health services research, nursing education, management of health services, sports education, allocation of healthcare resources, evaluation of different health markets and health services organizations, international comparative analysis of health systems, health economics, and health policies and regulations.
Emerging Technologies: Public Health Educators’ Knowledge And Attitudes Toward Global Sensor Networks
Authors: Ajani Taiwo , Stork Elizabeth
Published: February 2016

The world-wide networking of sensing devices planned by some computer corporations will have major implications for socio-political systems including national security, public health, and environmental monitoring. The early acceptance or failure of these deployments will depend on first users’ knowledge and attitudes about it. Public health educators are on the forefront of environmental and global health research and policy and, as such, their involvement in development and implementation are critical to the public’s acceptance of this technology. This correlation study used two adapted instruments - one on knowledge of technology and one on attitudes - and captured demographic information on 155 public health faculty. The authors found that Public Health university educators were not very knowledgeable about sensor systems in general (76% with little to no knowledge); their highest level of knowledge was on benefits and uses of global sensor networks (22% had some or more knowledge), and lowest was on plans to deploy them. The sample had moderately positive attitudes (range 1-7) about the idea of global sensor deployment (M = 4.57, N = 155) and a slight positive correlation between knowledge and attitudes on global sensor networks.
When Spreading HIV May Matter Most: The Unclassifiable Sexual Non-Identity Of Adolescent African American MSMW On Their Journey To Testing
Authors: Fleming Deymon X. , Johnson James A. , Reese Le’Roy , Walker Daniel E.
Published: February 2016

Recent studies have found that many young African American men who have sex with men and women (MSMW) do not identify as bisexual or non-heterosexual. The present study explored the mental journeys of twenty African American MSMW as they decided to undergo HIV testing. The rejection of sexual identity labels may contribute to the rising annual HIV infection rate among African American men who have sex with men (MSM) and MSMW. Furthermore, sexual identity ambivalence may lead to secretive sexual behavior and failure to disclose homosexual relations to female partners, behavior colloquially referred to as “down-low.” Greater understanding of the nuanced distinctions between sexual identity and behavior may help public health researchers address the needs of this racial and sexual minority that remains especially vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.
Effect Of The Big Five Personality Traits On Job Satisfaction And Organizational Commitment In The Healthcare Industry: The Case Of Kenya
Authors: Ganu Daniel , Kogutu Caleb Nyaranga
Published: February 2016

The study examined the effect of the big five personality traits on job satisfaction and organizational commitment among healthcare workers in Kenya. The study utilized a correlational descriptive study design and collected data using a self-administered questionnaire. In all, 252 healthcare workers comprising Medical doctors, Nurses, Pharmacists, and Lab Technologist participated in the study. Using descriptive statistics and multi-linear regression analysis, the study showed significant relations between the Big Five personality traits with job satisfaction and organizational commitment. Openness, Conscientiousness, and Neuroticism have a positive relation with organizational commitment while extraversion and Neuroticism also have a positive relation with job satisfaction. More so, a positive relationship was found between job satisfaction and organizational commitment. This finding suggests that employees who exhibit the traits of openness, neuroticism, extraversion and conscientiousness turn to find a greater sense of commitment and job satisfaction to the Healthcare organizations. The implication of the results will be useful to hospital administrators and the healthcare industry in general.
Teenage Pregnancy And Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention: A Pilot Study Exploring Knowledge And Reported Behaviors
Authors: Flinders Brooke A. , Gilb Katelyn , Neu Tricia
Published: February 2016

The Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program (TPP) is administered by the Office of Adolescent Health, with a goal of addressing the rising teen pregnancy rates in the United States. One TPP initiative includes the replication of evidence-based program models that seek to prevent teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (Department of Health and Human Services, 2014). FOCUS Butler County, in Southwestern Ohio, is one such women’s health program. In a pilot study, conducted between March and August 2011, 96 female participants between the ages of 16 and 23 were surveyed to capture a “snapshot” of their baseline knowledge and behaviors. Following their completion of the questionnaire, respondents participated in eight hours of evidenced-based, comprehensive sexual education. Four months post-intervention (n=49) and 12 months post-intervention (n=28), participants were re-surveyed to assess knowledge and behaviors. This longitudinal, observational study explored the frequency and means of reported responses. For further analysis, questions were assigned to one of ten categories: 1) demographics/history, 2) knowledge-based, 3) reported behaviors, 4) opinions, 5) perceived opinions of friends, 6) intentions for future practice, 7) perception of risk, 8) attitudes regarding condom use, 9) attitudes related to alcohol use, and 10) perception of comfort related to health seeking behaviors. Significant findings were noted in the category of knowledge-based questions.
The Development Of The Electronic Nursing Record System (ENRS) In The Hospital Setting: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Rachmawaty Rini
Published: February 2016

In Indonesian hospitals, particularly in South Sulawesi Province, one of the activities that needs improvement by design is that of nursing records. This vital task is not completed due mainly to the fact that, incredibly, no model has been implemented to date mainly because of financial constraints and the overall lack of nurses’ computer literacy within the health services area in Indonesia. Although copious nursing recordkeeping is standard practice abroad, this vital task is not the norm in our area. Thus, the aim of this integrative literature review was to investigate the development of the electronic nursing record system (ENRS) in hospital settings across different countries and its effects on the care process and care outcomes. The results of this review showed that ENRS has been used widely in other developed countries and has benefited nurses and other healthcare providers. Hence, the findings of this review can be used by hospital policymakers in other developing countries, where the ENRS have not been implemented yet, as the evidence to consider the use of the ENRS.
Medical Errors In U.S. Healthcare Organizations: Have We Made Any Progress?
Authors: Ghormley Yvette
Published: February 2016

Since the Institute of Medicine’s landmark 1999 report on medical errors, mandates, legislation, and recommendations have been forced on the U.S. healthcare industry. However, only limited progress has been made. Part of the difficulty is identifying the scope of the problem, which has been far larger than thought since the advent of new reporting tools. The major causes of medical errors lie in the lack of a (a) pervasive safety culture, (b) commitment by top healthcare organization management to reduce medical errors, and (c) integrated IT systems, including electronic health records. Compared to other “high reliability” organizations that have achieved excellent results in regard to safety, healthcare is perceived as lagging far behind. Healthcare is not the sole industry needing a safety culture. However, many healthcare leaders perceive existing industry tools that high reliability organizations routinely use as irrelevant. Positive change will come when attitudes change and healthcare organizations embrace the solutions that other industrial organizations have utilized to produce satisfactory safety outcomes.