bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiologi ved korsryggsmerter
Authors: Soldal Dag Magnar
Published: May 2016

Artikkelen belyser lave korsryggsmerter med eller uten utstråling. Livstidsprevalensen for lave ryggsmerter er høy, sannsynligvis opp mot 80%. På grunn av fravær fra arbeid, bruk av helsetjenester og produksjonstap fører rygglidelser til store kostnader for den enkelte og samfunnet. I 2004 var over 44000 personer uføretrygdet iNorge på grunn av rygglidelser, og rygglidelser er en av de viktigste enkeltårsaker til uføretrygd. Rygglidelser finnes i alle aldersgrupper, og er like hyppig hos unge og eldre. Vi finner spesifikke årsaker til lave ryggsmerter i mindre enn 15% av tilfellene. Hos 1-5% finner en malign sykdom, betennelsesaktig revmatisk sykdom, frakturereller skader. Hyppigste spesifikke årsak er skiveprolaps med nerverotsaffeksjon eller spinal stenose. Årsaken til uspesifikke rygglidelser mener vi i dag er multifaktorielle. Påvirkning av psykiske, sosiale og kulturelle faktorer kan føre til at tilstanden blir langvarig og tilbakevendende selv om mulige primære biologiske årsaker etter hvert har mindre betydning. En del faktorer som røyking, betydelig overvekt, mye løfting, vridning, ensformig arbeid, helkroppsvibrasjon, samt mistrivsel i jobbsituasjonen er vist å henge sammen med økt rapportering av symptomer. For samtlige av disse faktorene er assosiasjonene varierende og ikke sterke. Prognosen ved akutte ryggsmerter er vanligvis god. Studier viser at etter en måned var reduksjon i smerte og arbeidsuførhet på 58%, og at hele 82% var kommet tilbake i jobb. Etter ett år er mindre enn 5% sykmeldte. Likevel opplever opptil 20% betydelig funksjonsbegrensning pga. ryggsmerter etter ett år. Prognosen er noe dårligere hos pasienter med utstråling av smerter til beina. En rekke andre og ikke-ryggrelaterte faktorer som lav utdanning og lav sosioøkonomisk status karakteriserer personer med rygglidelser som faller ut av arbeidslivetLow back pain (LBP) is a major reason for disability in Norway, and LBP therefore has great impact on both the individual person suffering from LBP and for the society. The lifetime prevalence for LBP is high, about 80%, but the prognosis is good for individual episodes. After the first attack 50% is well in one week and 90%in 8 weeks. Only in about 15% we know the reason for LBP, with radicular pain from spinal disc herniation as the major cause. Unspecific LBP has multiple risk factors for disability such as psychological factors, low education and lifestyle factors
Osteoporose
Authors: Haugeberg Glenn
Published: May 2016

Osteoporosis and its clinical consequences the fractures are among the main contributors of increased morbidity and increased mortality among elderly people. After the age of 50 years every second female and 1 out of 5 males during the rest of their life time will have a low energy fracture. Patients with several inflammatory rheumatic joint diseases and endocrinological diseases have been shown to have an increased risk for osteoporosis and low energy fracture. The burden of the osteoporosis bone disease for both individuals (morbidity and mortality) and society (costs) is high.
The role of pharmacoepidemiological studies in the market withdrawal of carisoprodol (Somadril®) in Europe, 167-172
Authors: Bramness Jørgen G. , Buajordet Ingebjørg , Skurtveit Svetlana
Published: May 2016

Carisoprodol is a centrally acting muscle relaxant that has been marketed in Europe for more than 45 years. In November 2007 the European Medicines Association recommended suspension of all carisoprodol containing products in all EU countries. During recent years, several observational studies on carisoprodol have been published by our group, which works in the field of traffic medicine and pharmacoepidemiological research in general. In this paper, we review the role pharmacoepidemiological studies on carisoprodol played in providing evidence for the risk of psychomotor impairment and traffic accidents, intoxications and abuse. These issues have been important for decisions about the regulation of carisoprodol. Key words: pharmacoepidemiology, carisoprodol, drug abuse, impairment, intoxication
Legemiddel­interaksjoner hos sykehuspasienter – forekomst og klinisk betydning
Authors: Blix Hege Salvesen , Viktil Kirsten K. , Reikvam Åsmund
Published: May 2016

Introduction: Little is known about the occurrence of drug interactions of hospitalised patients. We aimed to identify the frequency of potential drug interactions among hospitalised patients and, furthermore, to evaluate how many of these were problematic and clinically significant. Methods: We investigated drug interactions by two methods: by applying a computerised drug-drug interaction programme and by prospective clinical evaluation. The study was carried out at departments of internal medicine and rheumatology in five Norwegian hospitals in 2002. Patient characteristics and information on drug use were recorded for 827 patients consecutively included. Medication reviews were carried out by clinical pharmacists and drug-related problems (DRPs), among which drug interactions is one category, were identified and discussed in the hospital multidisciplinary team, chaired by a physician. Retrospectively, the patients’ drug regimens were screened by using a computer programme for drug-drug interactions, DRUID. This programme is universally used in Norway and classifies DDIs into four categories according to assumed severity: A, avoid; B, avoid/take precautions; C, take precautions; D, no action needed. Results: A total of 1513 DDIs were found in 544 patients (66% of the total sample of 827 patients) by computer screening. Many of these were related to drugs started in the hospital, that is they were new drug interactions. By bedside evaluation, 99 DDIs were found in 73 patients (9%). Of these, 89 were also identified by computer screening. Thus, only 6% of the computer identified drug interactions were assessed to be clinically problematic. Interactions of all degrees of severity, according to the computer programme, were identified as problematic by bedside screening. Drugs most often causing new drug interactions were warfarin, acetylsalicylic acid, digitoxin and combinations of codeine and paracetamol. Conclusions: The majority of hospitalised patients have potential drug interactions, however, less than one in ten have interactions of clinical importance. Computer graded severity has limitations when intended to be used as an indicator for clinical importance. Another way of picking up new, possibly serious drug interactions would be to select indicator drugs, which are drugs frequently known to be involved in interactions, and then undertake the main interaction search on these drugs.
Repeated dispensing of codeine is associated with high consumption of benzodiazepines
Authors: Bachs Liliana C. , Bramness Jørgen G. , Engeland Anders , Skurtveit Svetlana
Published: May 2016

Aims: Our objective was to explore the use of codeine analgesics in individual patients in Norway, giving special attention to the 10% who consume the highest amounts. Methods: We retrieved data from the Norwegian Prescription Database on patients who were dispensed at least one codeine analgesic prescription during 2006. We looked at age and gender specific 1-year periodic prevalence. The 10% of codeine users who were prescribed the highest amounts of the drug that year were further characterized. Age and gender distribution and concurrent high consumption of other potential drugs of abuse were also considered. Results: In the year 2006, a total of 386,836 individuals filled at least one prescription for codeine analgesics from Norwegian pharmacies, excluding cancer patients. The crude prevalence for the use of codeine analgesics was 7.3% and 9.3% of the male and female Norwegian population, respectively. Twelve percent of women and 9% of men who filled a codeine prescription received 120 defined daily doses (DDD) or more of codeine analgesics in 2006 (moderate to high consumers). Fifty percent of those patients (21,759) were also dispensed large amounts of benzodiazepines or carisoprodol over the same period. In comparison, only ten percent of patients who received fewer than 120 DDD of codeine analgesics were dispensed large amounts of benzodiazepines or carisoprodol. Conclusions: A high percentage of the Norwegian population used codeine analgesics. One-year prevalence use of codeine increased with age and was higher for women at all ages. Our study showed that codeine use was mainly sporadic, but that a relatively large sub-group of users were dispensed repeated prescriptions of the drug in combination with other potential drugs of abuse. Key Words: Codeine analgesics, Norwegian Prescription Database, prevalence, dispensed quantity, concurrent use, high consumers, abuse.
The measurements of sickness absence – a theoretical perspective
Authors: Hensing Gunnel
Published: May 2016

The assessment of sickness absence is a challenge in spite of accessible numbers of spells, persons, and days of absence in public and employer registers. Concepts and their definitions are still to a small extent standardized, and clear and explicit definitions need to be provided. In epidemiological studies, the definition of the study base is important, and in sickness absence research a prerequisite is that an individual belongs to a sickness absence insurance scheme. Population at risk can be identified at three levels: the general population, the sickness insured population, and the sickness absent population. Cases in sickness absence studies can be quantified in terms of spell-, person-, or time based measurements. Each of these ways reflects different contents of sickness absence as a phenomenon, and the choice of measurement should be guided by the purpose of the study as well as the target area. Five different measurements (frequency, length, cumulative incidence, incidence rate, and duration) are suggested and their application is discussed. These five measurements can be seen as a summary of measurements used in different studies and an application of epidemiologic methods into sickness absence research. There are opportunities to increase the quality of sickness absence research, with an increased awareness of the importance of the measurements used.
Undervisningsprogram i videregående skoler om psykiske plager: Effekter på elevers hjelpsøking og psykiske helse
Authors: Andersen Bror Just , Johansen Rune , Nord Erik
Published: May 2016

Det primærforebyggende programmet ”VIP” – Veiledning og Informasjon om Psykisk helse – gjennomføres overfor elever i første klasse i videregående skoler. VIPs mål er å fremme psykisk helse ved å øke elevenes kunnskapsgrunnlag om psykiske helse, å forbedre de unges evne til gjenkjennelse av signaler på psykiske lidelser og å senke terskelen for å søke hjelp. Vi evaluerer VIP ved å sammenlikne elever i et utvalg av skoler i Akershus der intervensjonen ble gjennomført (intervensjonsgruppe), med elever i et utvalg av skoler i Vestfold som ikke fikk intervensjonen (kontrollgruppe). Vi har tidligere funnet at programmet på helt kort sikt har effekter både på generelle kunnskaper om psykisk helse og på kunnskaper om hjelpeapparatet. I denne artikkelen har vi vist at det etter 6 og 12 måneder synes å være en liten effekt på hjelpsøking. Innvirkningen på dagliglivet blant de som faktisk har problemer er positiv (12% bedre utvikling etter 12 måneder) men ikke statistisk signifikant. Derimot har vi funnet statistisk signifikante effekter på totalskåren i SDQ-Nor (Cohens d = 0,15), problemnivå med jevnaldrende (d = 0,31) og angst etter 12 måneder (d = 0,37). Vi finner dette bemerkelsesverdig gitt VIP-intervensjonens moderate omfang og den store sammenhengen som VIP-programmet forekommer i. Effektene er ikke veldig store, men selv moderate eller små bidrag til økt kunnskap og bedre mestring gjennom VIP-programmet vil være forsvarlig hvis det oppnås med tilsvarende lave kostnader. En nærmere analyse av programmets kostnader vil således være av interesse.
Effect of interventions to improve health care services for ethnic minority populations
Authors: Forsetlund Louise , Eike Morten Christoph , Vist Gunn E.
Published: May 2016

Objectives: Since the early 1990s there has been an increasing awareness of social and ethnic inequity in health and for the last few years there has also been an increasing focus on disparities in the quality of health services to ethnic minority groups. The aim of this review was to collect and summarise in a systematic and transparent manner the effect of interventions to improve health care services for ethnic minorities.Methods: We searched several medical databases for systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials. Two researchers independently screened for and selected studies, assessed risk of bias, extracted data and graded the quality of the evidence for each outcome in the included studies. The analysis was done qualitatively by describing studies and presenting them in tables.Results: We included 19 primary studies. The interventions were targeted at reducing clinical, structural and organisational barriers against good quality health care services. Eight studies examined the effect of educational interventions in improving outcomes within cross-cultural communication, smoking cessation, asthma care, cancer screening and mental health care. In six comparisons the effect of reminders for improving health care services and patient outcomes within cancer screening and diabetes care was examined. Two studies compared professional remote interpretation services to traditional interpretation services, two studies compared ethnic matching of client and therapist and two studies examined the effect of providing additional support in the form of more personnel in the treatment of diabetes and kidney transplant patients. Most patients were African-Americans and Latin-Americans and all ages were represented.Conclusions: Educational interventions and electronic reminders to physicians may in some contexts improve health care and health outcomes for minority patients. The quality of the evidence varied from low to very low. The quality of available evidence for the other interventions was too low to draw reliable conclusions. We found no studies that only included young patients, but we suggest that interventions targeted at health personnel or health organisations may be applicable regardless of the age of the patient population. This review reveals that the evidence for interventions to improve health care for minorities is sparse and generally of low quality.
Omfanget av seksuelle krenkelser og overgrep i en norsk ungdomsbefolkning
Authors: Mossige Svein , Huang Lihong
Published: May 2016

The prevalence of sexual offences and abuse within a Norwegian youth population. The aim of this cross-sectional school-based study is to present and discuss the prevalence of sexual abuse within a Norwegian population of young people at the age of 18. Contrary to some earlier Norwegian studies the response rate is fairly high and sexually abuse is more clearly defined. The results are compared with an earlier Norwegian study. A clear gendered pattern can be seen in the data: about a quarter of the young correspondents have experienced sexual offenses, among them 77 percent are girls while 90 per cent of the offenders are males. The same pattern appears in other Nordic studies. Most of the reported sexual offenses towards girls take place when they are in their early teens and the offender is usually a boy some years older, in his teens or early twenties. A sexually offended girl reports more often the use of force or physical violence during the event than an offended boy does. The family is an arena with relatively fewer reported cases of sexually abuse or offences in this study than those of earlier research. We cannot say if this implies a decrease of sexual abuse within the family in Norway but international studies indicate such a tendency in some western countries. To be able to see how the picture of sexual abuse develops in society across time, for instance in a youth population, well prepared prevalence studies should be done within regular time-intervals
Socioeconomic status, achieving occupational aspirations and sickness absence: A population based longitudinal study of Norwegian youths
Authors: Gjerustad Cay , Von Soest Tilmann
Published: May 2016

This paper examines whether the degree of convergence between occupational aspirations and actual occupational achievement can elucidate the relationship between socioeconomic status and sickness absence. The analyses draw on survey data from a longitudinal study following 1,552 respondents from adolescence through young adulthood linked to register data on sickness absence. Occupational aspirations in adolescence were contrasted with actual occupational achievement in young adulthood and used to predict sickness absence. In accordance with existing research, socioeconomic status significantly predicted sickness absence, even after controlling for several relevant variables. Including aspiration achievement in the analysis reduced the relationship between socioeconomic status and sickness absence, while aspiration achievement was significantly related to sickness absence. The findings indicate that aspiration achievement mediates the relationship between socioeconomic status and sickness absence
Lost in transition? Substance abuse and risk of labour market exclusion from youth to adulthood
Authors: Hammer Torild , Hyggen Christer
Published: May 2016

Despite low levels of youth unemployment in Norway, concerns have been raised about the high numbers of youth in inactivity, receiving health related social security benefits. It is argued that parts of the system of social security may work as welfare traps. OECD recommends welfare policies with the overall aim of fostering youth employability, not benefit dependency. In this article we use a unique combination of register data and survey data from the panel survey “work, lifestyle and health”. This survey follows a representative sample of the cohorts born between 1965 and 1968 from 1985 through follow-ups in 1987, 1989, 1993 and 2003. This allows us to follow individual life trajectories from ages 17-20 to 35-39. The aim of the article is first to study the impact of substance abuse upon risk of receiving social assistance, since previous research has found that receiving social assistance increases the probability of labour market exclusion in adulthood. Second, we analyse the impact of receiving social assistance, to have mental health problems and substance abuse in youth and consequences for labour market integration in adulthood. Analyses reveal that neither cannabis use nor alcohol consumption in youth have a direct effect on the risk of labour market exclusion in adulthood. However, cannabis use increases the probability of receiving social assistance, which in turn increases risk of labour market exclusion in adulthood. Mental health problems in youth increase risk for later labour market exclusion, but these effects are mediated through factors like problem behaviour related to alcohol abuse and the use of illegal drugs other than cannabis. Receiving social assistance in youth has long time effects on the risk of labour market exclusion, especially for individuals from the lower socioeconomic groups.
Tobacco consumption in adolescence: Age and regional trends - The Young HUNT Study, Norway (1995-2008)
Authors: Thoen Håvard , Holmen Turid Lingaas
Published: May 2016

Background: The aim of this study was to describe the trends of smoking and snuff consumption in adolescents in Nord-Trøndelag, Norway, in the period from 1995/97 to 2006/08, with special emphasize on regional and gender differences.Method: We used data from all three waves of the Young-HUNT study, the youth part (ages 13-19 yrs) of the HUNT study, Nord- Trøndelag County, Norway. Young-HUNT 1 was conducted in 1995-97 (N=9131, 90% response rate), Young-HUNT 2 in 1999-2000 (N=2808, 80% response rate) and Young-HUNT 3 in 2006-08 (N=8601).Results: Fewer adolescents had tried smoking in Young-HUNT 3 (40.6%) compared to Young-HUNT 1 (56.5%), while the prevalence of adolescents who had tried snuff increased in the same period from 17.4% to 23.5%. The prevalence of adolescents who smoked daily or occasionally decreased between Young- HUNT 1 (girls 23.8%, boys 19.8%) and Young-HUNT 3 (girls: 14.6%, boys: 12.1%), while the prevalence of daily or occasionally snuffing increased (girls: 3.4% to 13.0% and boys: 20.2% to 23.1%). This constitutes a fourfold increase of the number of young female snuff users in little more than a decade. Occasional snuff use increased most in girls while daily snuff use increased most in boys. The same tendency was seen inn all regions, but the prevalence of tobacco use varied.Conclusion: The results demonstrate a shift from cigarette smoking to snuff use in the adolescent population between 1995 and 2008. Although a decrease in cigarette smoking occurred, the increasing snuff use makes the total tobacco consumption nearly constant
Nytt Norsk pasientregister gir nye forskningsmuligheter
Authors: Bakken Inger Johanne , Estenstad Monica Grøtte , Gystad Stein Olav , Németh Julia , Huse Unn Elisabeth
Published: May 2016

Epidemiologisk forskning, eller forskning som kan gi ny viten om sykdommers årsaker, utbredelse og forløp, er et av formålene for Norsk pasientregister. Norsk pasientregister inneholder informasjon om aktivitet i spesialisthelsetjenesten og omfatter data fra somatiske sykehus, psykisk helsevern for barn og unge, psykisk helsevern for voksne, tverrfaglig spesialisert rusbehandling, og privatpraktiserende avtalespesialister. Norsk pasientregister fikk hjemmel til innhenting av direkte personidentifiserbare data (fødselsnummer) gjennom en endring i helseregisterloven vedtatt av Stortinget i februar 2007. Data i Norsk pasientregister omfatter derfor nå også fødselsnummer i kryptert form. Det krypterte fødselsnummeret kan dekrypteres ved behov, for eksempel for sammenstilling med andre registerdata, data fra befolkningsundersøkelser eller kliniske data. I denne artikkelen beskriver vi Norsk pasientregister som personidentifiserbart register, informerer om nye muligheter og viser eksempler på ny statistikk fra registeret. Vi beskriver også hvordan forskningsmiljøene kan få tilgang til data fra registeret.
Epidemiology of chronic diseases / Kroniske nevrologiske sykdommers epidemiologi
Authors: Bjertness Espen
Published: May 2016

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Anatomic Tunnel Placement in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Dhawan Aman , Gallo Robert A. , Lynch Scott A.
Published: May 2016

The anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction concept has developed in part from renewed interest in the insertional anatomy of the ACL, using surgical techniques that can reproduce this anatomy reliably and accurately during surgical reconstruction. Several technical tools are available to help identify and place the tibial and femoral grafts anatomically, including arthroscopic anatomic landmarks, a malleable ruler device, and intraoperative fluoroscopy. The changes in technique for anatomic tunnel placement in ACL reconstruction follow recent biomechanical and kinematic data that demonstrate improved time zero characteristics. A better re-creation of native ACL kinematics and biomechanics is achieved with independent femoral drilling techniques that re-create a central footprint single-bundle ACL reconstruction or double-bundle reconstruction. However, to date, limited short-term and long-term clinical outcome data have been reported that support using either of these techniques rather than a transtibial drilling technique. This lack of clear clinical advantage for femoral independent and/or double-bundle techniques may arise because of the potentially offsetting biologic incorporation challenges of these grafts when placed using these techniques or could result from modifications made in traditional endoscopic transtibial techniques that allow improved femoral and tibial footprint restoration.
Task Based Language Teaching: Development of CALL
Authors: Anwar Khoirul , Arifani Yudhi
Published: May 2016

The dominant complexities of English teaching in Indonesia are about limited development of teaching methods and materials which still cannot optimally reflect students’ needs (in particular of how to acquire knowledge and select the most effective learning models). This research is to develop materials with complete task-based activities by using CALL at junior high school in Indonesia. In order to entirely develop comprehensive materials, the first step is to do need analysis especially identifying task based learning model which fulfils students’ expectation, creates and develops pre task and task cycle (consisting of task, planning, and reporting) into CALL integration of learning module. The results of the students’ needs show that they like to have appropriate materials for their level, related to real life, variety of media and sources of learning chiefly incorporated to computer which optimizes interactive, contextual, and authentic materials. Therefore, the design of its prototype consists of three main steps. First, pre-task activity, it is designed in observing and questioning stage which is done by providing English comics with thematic situations. Second, main task activities, it is designed in exploring and associating stage which are done by presenting real life situations by utilizing videos, songs, and stories which elaborate exercises, role play, and discussion sections. Finally, post task activity, it is designed in communicating stage and it is intended to provide follow-up activities in wider contexts. The evaluation of the final product is done by validating the materials by means of a group discussion with English teachers.
Educational Values in Different Social-Economic Status—A Study Case of Six Families in Maros Regency
Authors: Jabaruddin Jabaruddin , Alimuddin Alimuddin , Manda Darman
Published: May 2016

This research aims at determining educational values in families by describing the priority of the values selected in the educational value, the role of parents, and the socialization of values that were used by parents in educational values. This research is a case study with a qualitative approach. The subjects of the research were selected purposively. The data were collected by observation, interview, and documentation. The results showed that families in different socioeconomic status choose religious values as the most important priority value to be implanted in children, followed by academic value, economic value and social value. Parents in low and medium socioeconomic status have different roles, father as a breadwinner and the mother served as a teacher of children at home who prepares internal needs of the family. Family in higher socioeconomic status does not have a clear division of roles, because the parents educate children at home and make a living for the family's economic needs together. The method of value socialization that parents used is advice, storytelling, dialogue, exemplary, punishment, and awards. Exemplary method is considered as the most effective method of social values in educational value. Punishment is the ultimate alternative punishment, is only done if the children are lazy to worship or severe violations such as stealing or violating immoral.
International Humanitarian Law: Attack of the Binary Bullet?
Authors: Wilson Helen , Esch Patrick van
Published: May 2016

Cyberspace has emerged as the 5th domain combat zone from which large scale cyber-attacks are launched at an adversary anonymously in milliseconds, by a single stroke on a computer keyboard or mobile device. Such cyber-warfare operations deliberately seek to deceive, degrade, destroy or disrupt computer systems and networks in a battle-space that transcends borders, under the shroud of secrecy to the attacker’s identity or source (Herbert, 2012). Unlike past armed conflicts between nations, conventional weaponry, warring combatants and military objectives were readily identifiable features of the conflict. Cyber-warfare, is asymmetric and can be deceptively and expeditiously instigated by States, Non-State actors, organised groups or sole operators targeting computer networks (e.g. Estonian attack in 2007, Stuxnet attack in 2010).
Retirement Planning Behaviour of Working Individuals and Legal Proposition for New Pension System in Malaysia
Authors: Hassan Kamal Halili , Rahim Rohani Abdul , Ahmad Fariza , Tengku Zainuddin Tengku Noor Azira , Merican Rooshida Rahim , Bahari Siti Kholijah
Published: May 2016

Problems have been identified pertaining to retirement scheme of the private sector employees in Malaysia where there is no legislated pension system in force. As a result of that, pension scheme and savings are more of a voluntary basis; although the principle is good but in practice many retirees suffer financially during their retirement. The objectives of this study are to examine factors contributing to individual’s retirement planning behavior and the private pension system in the private sector in Malaysia. Retirement planning behaviour in this study was measured with series of questions on behaviour about retirement planning. A total of 500 working individuals from private sectors in the age group of 40 years and above had participated in this study. The results identified several significant variables in the prediction of retirement planning among working individuals in Malaysia, including individual who had higher levels of education, higher levels of income, financial literacy, retirement goal clarity and attitude towards retirement. There is a correlation between retirement planning behavior and saving for old aged. As a response to the result collected from the survey, a legal proposition is put forward to address issues of pension during retirement among private sector’s employees.
Value Migration, Status and Functions: A New Classification in Shiite Political Culture
Authors: Ghaffari Hashjin Zahed , Aghaei Mohammad , Fathimehr Mohammadreza
Published: May 2016

Human civilization has always generated by great migrations and exactly that is why research on migration one of the basic components of political science neglected unfortunately. In Islamic culture, especially in Shiite political culture, migration is valuable. The value of migration in the Shiite political culture is due to migration of the Prophet of Islam. Therefore, the main question is what is the roles and functions of migration in the Shiite political culture? To answer this question, were referred to first-hand and old sources of Shiite Islam. Providing a new classification, we concluded that it has important status and has five functions in Islam, including political, security, educational, social, and Preaching functions.
Investigating the Policy of International Trading Companies of Iran in Using Letters of Credit
Authors: Ghasemi Atefe , Mallahi Azita , Sadeghi Hadiseh , Hatamiasdabadi Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2016

Letters of credit play a crucial role in international trade. In this study, we investigate the most preferable characteristics of letters of credit for the international trading companies in Iran. We seek to investigate which kind of guarantee (commercial L/C or standby L/C) they prefer to secure the performance of their client's obligations. Studied companies were 20 international trading companies in Tehran, from which 50 experts were participated in our survey study. For measuring the participants and their policy in using letters of credit, a questionnaire in Persian was designed. For analyzing data we used statistical tests (One-sample t-test). Data showed that being a guarantee, integration, documentary conditions, and secondary payment mechanism are four important reasons for international trading companies in Iran to use letters of credit in their contracts. Statistical results showed that “being a guaranteed credit” is the most important factor with a mean of 3.660 ± 1.135.Also, we found significant relationship between these four factors and the L/C usage policy (p <0.01, and p< 0.05). We concluded that they mostly prefer standby letters of credit for securing their transactions.
Abortion in the Views of Different Religions and Laws
Authors: Ardestani Abass Shafei , Esfahani Mahdi Khaghani , Hussieni Seyed Mohamamd
Published: May 2016

More than ever, abortion is paid attention today by public especially in cases that keeping on the pregnancy has problems for mother or there is a fault or keeping the dignity of mother and her family depending on abortion and realizing from its consequences. Therefore, it is too important to obtain abortion verdict. Basically, abortion in all steps of growth evolution from the conclusion of zygote to birth is a decisive prohibition in Islam. The present paper studies abortion and religious verdicts and its effects based on different motivations in the view of religion and law. Further, different forms of abortion and its punishment in Iranian criminal laws are clarified here. Finally, different forms of abortion and their reasons in the views of religion and law are discussed in the present study.
Analysis of Prospects and Challenges of Sub-District Structures under Ghana’s Local Governance System
Authors: Forkuor David , Wusu Adjei Prince Osei
Published: May 2016

The research investigated into the operations and activities of the sub-district structures of local government in Ghana. Three districts in the Asante Region were studied using a cross-sectional study design. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. In addition to literature review, a sample size of 79 was used and responses from mainly the Chairmen of the sub-district structures represented the primary data. Data were analysed using both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Results from the analysis indicated that sub-district structures are confronted with a number of constraints that militate against the realization of their potential  for inducing grassroots development. The constraints include: poor or no office accommodation, lack of commitment from district assemblies and sub-metropolitan units to provide the needed assistance to the sub-district structures. However, the Unit Committees representing the last tier of the local government structure are more effective and efficient in keeping touch with the grassroots than the Town, Area, Zonal and Urban councils. Recommendations are made to the Local Government Ministry but worthy of note among the recommendations are the urgent need to officially inaugurate all sub-district structures that have not been inaugurated and initiate a process to review the Legislative Instrument establishing Sub-district structures in Ghana.
Strategies for Mainstreaming Education for Sustainability into the Nigerian Social Studies Teacher Education Programme
Authors: Elijah Ojedokun Olalekan
Published: May 2016

This paper supports the advocacy for a sustainable future and discusses the strategies that could be adopted in order to make Social Studies, an integrated social science subject in the Nigerian school curricula which is saddled with the responsibility of promoting informed citizenry to educate for sustainability. Issues surrounding the prospect of using Social Studies to teach the rudiments of Education for Sustainability are discussed after having examined the strength, weakness, opportunities and strength of Social Studies, especially at the level of teacher education. The study concluded that the threat to Social Studies which are enormous may need to be quickly addressed so that teacher education institutions may have clear-cut directions on how to mainstream the learning content of Education for Sustainability into the subject and consequently prepare preservice teachers that are critical and holistic in their thinking to handle a more robust holistic Social Studies in the primary and secondary schools in Nigeria.
Are Australian Aboriginal Communities Adapting to a Warmer Climate? A Study of Communities Living in Semi-Arid Australia
Authors: Race Digby , Mathew Supriya , Campbell Matthew , Hampton Karl
Published: May 2016

Communities around the world adapt to warming climates in a number of ways. Adaptations can often be energy intensive or dependent on expensive infrastructure to cope with harsh weather, so the use of renewable energy and energy efficient housing is becoming an increasing feature in conversations about climate change adaptation. The cost of energy for households continues to increase, with this cost adding considerable financial pressure on low-income households in both developed and developing countries. The concept of ‘energy poverty’ is gaining utility around the world to highlight the prevalent dilemma faced by low-income households that they cannot afford the level of energy use to maintain their desired livelihood. In regions of the world with extended periods of extreme weather, households can allocate as much as 20 per cent of their budget on energy consumption to maintain comfortable housing. Research by the authors indicates that effective adaptation must not add to the financial burden on low-income households, if the liveability of Australia’s semi-arid region is to be sustained.
Earning Capacity of Sustainable Education - A Review of Current Perceptions Regarding the Salaries, Under-employment and Over-education of Higher-Education Graduates and their Potential Application in Sustainability Assessments
Authors: Maragakis Antonios , Dobbelsteen Andy van den , Maragakis Alexandros
Published: May 2016

There is a growing need to understand the economic returns of degrees as a function of a sustainable institution. The empirical data presented in this paper suggests that there is a difference between the economic perception of higher education stakeholders and reality. The data showed that the most important economic metric for a graduate is full-time employment. This metric, although important, is incomplete and does not address other important factors such as starting salaries and under-employment. This indicates a gap between reality and perception considering stakeholders expectation that education should not cost more than of 15% of future salaries and that the debt be repaid in less than ten years. Student’s focusing on full-time employment rather than the holistic economic realities of their educational choices may lead to an unsustainable future which is currently not captured in higher education sustainability assessments.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Sustainable Development, Vol. 9, No. 3
Authors: Sun Sherry
Published: May 2016

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Sustainable Development, Vol. 9, No. 3, 2016
Green Economy and Renewable Energy Focusing on the Biomass Energy Source
Authors: Hussien Mohammed Ebrahim , Siwar Chamhuri , Alam Rashidah Zainal , Jafar Abdul Hamid , Ludin Norasikin Ahmad
Published: May 2016

Since conventional energy resources are major source of CO2 emission, over reliance on fossil fuels has raised questions on environmental sustainability. On way to address these multi-faceted issues of conventional energy sources, the sustainability of energy and environment is through the green economy approach. As such, this paper aims to discuss the concept of green economy in relation with renewable energy. The interdependence of green economy and environmental quality as well as the compatibility of green economy approach with the notion of sustainable development are demonstrated in the paper. Green economy approach fulfils the methodological gaps that exist in the growth models. It is believed that the best economic tool to attain sustainable development goals is by integrating social, economic and environmental elements. Furthermore, energy is believed to be a significant player in determining the greenness of the economy and sustainability as it has economic and environmental value. In addition, this study illustrates the significance of biomass energy resource and CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion. The illustration framework justifies that biomass is the determinant renewable energy source to be a proxy for renewable energy resources. Similarly, it justifies that CO2 emission of energy sector is considerably significant to represent the CO2 emissions of the atmosphere.
Global Organisations and SME in India: A Comparative Study of Sustainability Initiatives
Authors: Kaur Amrinder , Sharma Puja Chhabra
Published: May 2016

Sustainability has become a mandatory strategy for survival on the planet. Sustainable development is an imperative for survival and growth for nations, peoples and the organisations. The study embraces the sustainability initiatives of Global and Small/Medium enterprises (SME) working in India. Data was collected for the study using a questionnaire. Mid-senior level executives were contacted for their take on sustainability initiatives by their organisations in India. The responses were collected both from globally operating organisations and SME in India. The summarised data was analysed to arrive at the conclusions. The study indicates that global organisations are operating at global scale in corporate sustainability programs for competitive advantage, to mitigate risk, for building a brand, and to regulate the complexity of global supply chains for business growth to ensure an enhanced market share/customer growth. The SMEs in India are found at a nascent stage with respect to sustainability and are only involved in activities necessary for their survival. Incorporating sustainability initiatives in the business practices of SME will need awareness and policy frame. On the other hand, the global organisations have a long way to go to create appreciable impact on the planet via their sustainability efforts. However, changes of responsible product, processes and global supply chain designs are being incorporated in their culture. These initiatives will need further push through governance and policy announcements at a regional and country level for far reaching impact. And for emerging countries like India they can be leaders in sustainability efforts for other Indian organisations particularly SME to follow sustainability based practices.
The Clinical Differences of Asthma in Patients with Molds Allergy
Authors: Kołodziejczyk Krzysztof , Bożek Andrzej , Jarząb Jerzy , Gawlik Radosław
Published: May 2016

Introduction: Bronchial asthma is an increasing problem worldwide. The course of bronchial asthma is dependent on the type of inducing allergens. The differences between the clinical features of asthma in patients with monovalent allergies to molds and with other allergies were explored. Material and methods: Randomly selected 1910 patients (924 women and 986 men) between 18−86 years in age were analyzed according to type of allergy and asthma. The diagnosis of asthma was confirmed on the basis of GINA criteria, physical examination and spirometry. Allergy diagnosis was confirmed on the basis of medical history, a positive skin prick test and the measurement of serum-specific IgE to inhalant allergens, using an extended profile of mold allergens. Results: Patients with monovalent allergies to molds (4% of analyzed group) had significantly more frequent diagnoses of asthma than patients in the other group (53% vs. 27.1−32.4%, p < 0.05). Patients with allergies to Alternaria alternata had an odds ratio of 2.11 (95%CI: 1.86−2.32) for receiving a diagnosis of bronchial asthma. They had less control over their asthma, which was more severe compared to patients with other allergies. Patients with asthma and allergies to mold had significantly more frequent exacerbation of asthma requiring systemic corticosteroids and/or hospitalization. They used a significantly greater mean daily dose of inhaled steroids compared to other patients. Conclusions: Patients with monovalent IgE allergies to molds are at a higher risk for asthma than patients with other allergies. Their asthma is often more intense and less controlled compared to that of patients with other types of allergies.
Low DLCO in Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension—Clinical Correlates and Prognostic Significance
Authors: Szturmowicz Monika , Kacprzak Aneta , Franczuk Monika , Burakowska Barbara , Kurzyna Marcin , Fijałkowska Anna , Skoczylas Agnieszka , Wesołowski Stefan , Kuś Jan , Torbicki Adam
Published: May 2016

Introduction: Decreased diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is observed in some idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) patients, but its clinical significance is uncertain. We aimed to assess clinical correlates and prognostic significance of low DLCO in IPAH patients. Material and methods: In the group of 65 IPAH patients the cut off value for low DLCO was set up based on histogram as < 55% of predicted value. Demographic data, exercise capacity, lung function tests, hemodynamic parameters and survival of the patients were compared depending on DLCO value. Results: Low DLCO was found in 18% of the patients, and it was associated with male sex, older age, worse functional status and exercise capacity, and higher prevalence of coronary artery disease. Low DLCO carried a 4-fold increase of death risk in 5-year perspective. Conclusions: Low DLCO was a marker of worse functional capacity and increased risk of death in studied IPAH patients.
Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) and Non Small Cell Lung Cancer: Case Presentation and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tomos Ioannis , Vlami Aikaterini , Karakatsani Anna , Korbila Ioanna , Manali Effrosyni , Papiris Spyros
Published: May 2016

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), also known as Forestier’s disease, is a systemic non inflammatory disease of unknown cause. It is characterized by the presence of osteophytes due to calcification and ossification of spinal ligaments and entheses. Moreover, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis has been associated with a variety of metabolic disorders. However, to the best of our knowledge no association with non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been reported so far. In the present study we report a case of a patient with NSCLC and DISH.
Cough-Induced Lung Intercostal Hernia
Authors: Kosałka Joanna , Wawrzycka-Adamczyk Katarzyna , Jurkiewicz Paweł , Pawlik Wiesław , Milewski Mamert , Musiał Jacek
Published: May 2016

A 73-year-old male with marked emphysema was admitted to the 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital in Krakow because of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation. His medical history was significant for total laryngectomy due to laryngeal cancer in 2010.