bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interstitial lung disease in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Renzoni E.A.
Published: February 2016

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease characterised by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs, autoimmune abnormalities and widespread vasculopathy. A degree of interstitial lung involvement is present in the majority of patients, although clinically significant lung fibrosis is present in approximately a third. Autoantibodies are significant clinical markers; anti-topoisomerase is tightly linked to lung fibrosis, whereas anti-centromere antibodies are protective. Further evaluation of markers of progression of lung fibrosis, such as markers of epithelial permeability, will be crucial in clinical management. The clinical course of SSc-associated interstitial lung disease is highly variable, with stability observed in a significant proportion of patients. Therefore, the decision of whether to treat is a challenging one, and should be based on evaluation of disease severity (on the basis of CT extent and lung function) and longitudinal disease behaviour. Two recently published placebo controlled randomized trials have shown a significant, if small, effect of cyclophosphamide on preventing FVC decline. However, because of the significant toxicity of cyclophosphamide, the assessment of alternative, less toxic, immunosuppressive agents for the long term management of SSc-associated interstitial lung disease is needed.
Endoscopic removal of a chondromatous hamartoma by bronchoscopic electrosurgical snare and argon plasma coagulation
Authors: Uskul B.T. , Baran R. , Turan F.E. , Sogukpinar O. , Aksoy F. , Turker H.
Published: February 2016

A 31-year-old woman presented with a cough, pain on the left side on deep inspiration, dyspnea, and fever. A chest x-ray showed pneumonic infiltration of the left middle and lower lung and decreased left hemithorax volume. A computed tomography (CT) revealed an occlusion of the left main bronchus by an intraluminal tumour. Bronchoscopic biopsy specimens suggested an endobronchial hamartoma. Therefore, we resected the tumour endobronchially using a bronchoscopic electrosurgical snare and argon plasma coagulation.
Asthma and menopause
Authors: Bellia V. , Augugliaro G.
Published: February 2016

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Out-patient high-dose-rate endobronchial brachytherapy for palliation of lung cancer: an observational study
Authors: Scarda A. , Confalonieri M. , Baghiris C. , Binato S. , Mazzarotto R. , Palamidese A. , Zuin R. , Fantoni U.
Published: February 2016

Background and Aim. Out-patient high-dose-rate endobronchial brachytherapy (HDREB) is a possible option in the palliation of symptoms in patients with advanced lung cancer, but literature data is limited and the technique is still under development in Italy. Our aim was to evaluate safety and effectiveness of out-patient HDREB for palliation of malignant endobronchial tumours in the context of a multidisciplinary approach. Methods. Out-patient HDREB sessions were scheduled at weekly intervals (500-1000 cGy per session) with prior Diodi-laser resection in some cases. Response was assessed bronchoscopically, clinically and functionally at the end of treatment and one month after the last HDREB session. Inclusion criteria was: histological evidence of malignant tumour not susceptible to surgical treatment for extension or co-morbidity. Results. 150 outpatient HDREB sessions were carried out on consecutive 35 patients (mean age 69 yrs, M/F 29/6) with symptoms due to central airway obstruction. A shortterm endoscopic response was observed in 15/28 patients. After delivering 2000 cGy dyspnoea decreased significantly. After one month cough decreased and haemoptysis disappeared. Palliation was obtained in all patients except one during. Lung function tests did not significantly improve after HDREB. No fatal complication occurred. A temporary radiation bronchitis was observed in six patients. Conclusions. This non-comparative, prospective observational study showed a palliative response of HDREB in most of patients with advanced endoluminal lung cancer. The safety of the procedure was good and the rate of non-fatal serious complications was very low.
Home mechanical ventilation patients: a retrospective survey to identify level of burden in real life
Authors: Vitacca M. , Escarrabill J. , Galavotti G. , Vianello A. , Prats E. , Scala R. , Peratoner A. , Guffanti E. , Maggi L. , Barbano L. , Balbi B.
Published: February 2016

Background and Aim. Home care for patients under home mechanical ventilation (HMV) may cause dramatic physical and economic burden in addition to the burden of time on family/caregivers and health care service (HCS) with difficult resource allocation decision-making. Our aims were: 1. To identify conditions causing major care burden in managing HMV patients according to family and payerâ€™s perspectives related to characteristics of the disease, dependency and accessibility; and 2. To find, if any, differences among diseases. Methods. A questionnaire was sent to eight pulmonary centres to identify factors connected with the greater care burden. Retrospective data of 792 patients still alive and in HMV was reviewed. Results. Compared to neuromuscular disorders (NM) and chest wall deformities, the COPD group have presented a statistically greater number of hospitalisations/yr (1.37 Â± 0.77), greater length of stay (13 Â± 10 days), higher number of outpatient visits/yr (2.55 Â± 1.73) or emergency room accesses/ yr (0.74 Â± 1.08). Patients with NM diseases need more home care. The prevalence of one, two and three among five selected burden criteria (needs of MV > 12 hrs/day, tracheotomy, high dependency, distance from hospital, frequent hospitalisations) was respectively 19%, 30% and 33% of the cases; the NM was the group most represented. Conclusions. In HMV patients: 1. underlying disease, level of their dependency, hours spent under MV, presence of tracheotomy, home distance from hospital, hospital accesses are the causes of major care burden; and 2. as a novelty we have demonstrated that more than fifty percent of them present two or three contemporaneous criteria selected as care burden, being NM and COPD patients the most representative group necessitating of familyâ€™s and HCSâ€™s care respectively.
The patients with severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and chronic respiratory insufficiency
Authors: Ambrosino N. , Di Giorgio M. , Di Paco A.
Published: February 2016

Caring for patients with Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stages III and IV with chronic respiratory failure is difficult independent of whether the target is survival or quality of life (QOL). The role of inhaled drug therapy in this specific set of very severe COPD patients has not previously been assessed. The only drug able to prolong survival in these patients is long term oxygen therapy, whereas there is little evidence to indicate long term domiciliary mechanical ventilation in the routine management of stable hypercapnic patients. Supplemental oxygen during exercise reduces exercise breathlessness and improves exercise capacity of the hypoxaemic patient. Pulmonary rehabilitation including nutritional supplementation is a significant component of therapy, even in these severe patients. Relief of dyspnoea with drugs such as morphine should not be denied to severely disabled patients who share poor QOL with cancer patients. Non-invasive ventilation has been used as a palliative treatment to reduce dyspnoea. Lung Volume Reduction Surgery may improve mortality, exercise capacity, and QOL in selected patients, but is associated with significant morbidity and an early mortality rate in the most severe patients. Lung transplantation is a final step in end-stage patients, but short- and long-term outcomes remain significantly inferior in relation to other â€œsolidâ€ organs recipients.
World Trade Center disaster: short- and medium-term health outcome
Authors: Moscato G. , Yacoub M.R.
Published: February 2016

Several studies related to September 11 World Trade Center (WTC) terrorist attack have been conducted in order to monitor physical and mental health in the population at risk in the short and medium term. In this paper the main health consequences in the exposed subjects 6 years after the disaster, including ocular, gastrointestinal, respiratory and psychological effects are described and discussed.
Clinical use of Heliox in Asthma and COPD
Authors: Valli G. , Paoletti P. , Savi D. , Martolini D. , Palange P.
Published: February 2016

Heliox is a low density gas mixture of helium and oxygen commonly used in deep diving (> 6 ATM). This mixture has been also used for clinical purposes, particularly in the critical care setting. Due to of its physical proprieties, Heliox breathing reduces air flow resistances within the bronchial tree; in patients with obstructive lung diseases Heliox may also reduce the work of breathing and improve pulmonary gas exchange efficiency. Beneficial effects have been documented in severe asthma attacks and in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A reduction in WOB during mechanical ventilation and an increase in exercise endurance capacity have also been described in COPD. Heliox has been also used in the treatment of upper airways obstruction, bronchiolitis and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Despite the encouraging results, Heliox use in routine practice remains controversial because of technical implications and high costs.
Giant saccular distal azygos artery aneurysm: Report of a case and review of literature
Authors: Baldawa Sachin , Katikar Dattaprasanna , Marda Sushil
Published: February 2016

An azygos anterior cerebral artery (ACA) is a rare variant of normal embryogenesis in which confluence of two A1 segments results in a single A2 segment with the absence of anterior communicating artery. The occurrence of an aneurysm at the bifurcation of azygos ACA is rare with few cases reported in the literature. We report a case of a 40-year-old lady who presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage following rupture of a giant, saccular distal azygos ACA aneurysm. Bifrontal craniotomy and clipping of an aneurysm was performed. The clinical significance of azygos ACA and surgical strategies in clipping these aneurysms are discussed with a review of literature.
Endoscopic excision of intraventricular neurocysticercosis blocking foramen of Monro bilaterally
Authors: Shah Harshil , Jain Kapil , Shah Jaimin
Published: February 2016

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a parasitic infestation of the central nervous system. NCC parasitic infestation can be misdiagnosed as hydatid cyst or intraventricular epidermoid cyst that can cause a diagnostic dilemma. A 23-year-old male patient presented with headache and vomiting for 3–4 days and giddiness for 4–5 days. Magnetic resonance imaging with contrast was suggestive of a rim-enhancing lesion at the level of the foramen of Monro. Endoscopic excision of the lesion was done, and the patient had relief of a headache and vomiting immediately after the procedure. He is being followed up regularly. Intraventricular NCC occluding both foramen of Monro is a rare entity. Complete endoscopic surgical excision followed by appropriate drug therapy should be given to achieve a cure.
Radiological study of C3–C4 level surgical cases of cervical spondylosis
Authors: Tomii Masato , Mizuno Junichi , Watanabe Kazuo
Published: February 2016

Objective: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the pathological characteristics of C3-C4 cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) from the radiological study. Materials and Methods: A total of 31 patients with single level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) at C3-C4 and 46 patients with single level ACDF at C5-C6 were included in this study. We selected C5-C6 level as a representative of the lower cervical level. The C3-C4 and C5-C6 levels were routinely examined to investigate the areas of the vertebral canal, subarachnoid space, and spinal cord in the cervical canal. Results: The clinical study of C3-C4 ACDF patients showed that as for the C3-C4 area, the area of the cervical vertebral canal, the area of the subarachnoid space, and he transverse surface area of the spinal cord were all significantly smaller in C3-C4 ACDF patients than in C5-C6 ACDF patients. Moreover, as for the C5-C6 area, only the area of the subarachnoid space was significantly smaller in C5-C6 ACDF patients than in C3-C4 ACDF patients. Spondylotic changes predominated at both the C3-C4 and C5-C6 levels. However, in the C5-C6 ACDF patients, spondylotic changes tended to predominate only at the operation level at C5-C6. Conclusions: Aging process develops from lower cervical to upper cervical level. Moreover, this static factor in conjunction with dynamic factor (instability) was the causative factors for the CSM in C3-C4 ACDF patients.
Indocyanine green as an adjunct for resection of insular gliomas
Authors: Shah Abhidha , Rangarajan Vithal , Kaswa Amol , Jain Sonal , Goel Atul
Published: February 2016

Objective: Many controversies exist regarding the extent of resection for insular gliomas and the timing of resection. Several techniques and adjuncts are used to maximize safety during resection of these tumors. We describe the use of indocyanine green (ICG) to identify the branches of the middle cerebral artery and discuss its utility to increase safety for resection for insular gliomas. Materials and Methods: Five patients with insular gliomas were surgically treated by the authors from June 2013 to June 2014. The patients presented with complaints of either a headache or recurring episodes of convulsions. All the patients were operated with the aid of neuronavigation and tractography. The long perforating branches of the middle cerebral artery course through the insula and pass onward to supply the corona radiata. It is essential to preserve these vessels to prevent postoperative neurological deficits. ICG (Aurogreen) was used to identify and preserve the long perforating arteries of the middle cerebral artery. Results: ICG dye correctly identified the long perforating branches of the middle cerebral artery and easily distinguished these vessels from the short perforating branches. All the branches of the middle cerebral artery that coursed through the tumor and had an onward course were preserved in all the patients. Only one patient developed a transient right sided hemiparesis that had improved at follow-up. Conclusions: Surgery for insular gliomas is challenging due to its location adjacent to eloquent areas, important white fiber tracts and the course of the middle cerebral artery within it. ICG is useful to identify and preserve the long perforating branches of the middle cerebral artery that course through the tumor and traverse onward to supply the corona radiata.
Single stage complete removal of dumbbell trigeminal schwannoma in a child by skull base approach
Authors: Doddamani Ramesh , Meena Rajesh , Mohan Selvam , Venkatramanaa Neelam
Published: February 2016

Trigeminal schwannomas (TSs) are extremely rare tumors in childhood, particularly in the absence of neurofibromatosis. Although multi-staged surgical strategies have been reported in the literature, safe and single stage microsurgical removal is possible. We report a rare case of dumbbell TS, in a 9-year-old girl in whom single stage complete removal was done using fronto-temporo-orbito-zygomatic craniotomy and sub temporal approach.
Harm Experienced from the Heavy Drinking of Family and Friends in the General Population: A Comparative Study of Six Northern European Countries
Authors: Ramstedt Mats , Sundin Erica , Moan Inger Synnøve , Storvoll Elisabet E. , Lund Ingunn Olea , Bloomfield Kim , Hope Ann , Kristjánsson Sveinbjörn , Tigerstedt Christoffer
Published: February 2016

Background

Epidemiological research on alcohol-related harm has long given priority to studies on harm to the drinker. A limitation with this perspective is that it neglects the harm drinking causes to people around the drinker, and thus, it fails to give a full picture of alcohol-related harm in society.

Aim

The aim was to compare the prevalence and correlates of experiencing harm from the heavy drinking by family and friends across the Nordic countries and Scotland and to discuss whether potential differences match levels of drinking, prevalence of binge drinking, and alcohol-related mortality.

Data and Method

Data from recent national general population surveys with similar questions on experiences of harms from the drinking of family and friends were collected from Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and Scotland.

Results

National estimates of the overall population prevalence of harm from the drinking of family and friends ranged from 14% to 28% across these countries, with the highest prevalence in Finland, Iceland, and Norway and lower estimates for Denmark, Sweden, and Scotland. Across all countries, the prevalence of harm from heavy drinking by family and friends was significantly higher among women and young respondents.

Conclusion

This study revealed large differences in the prevalence of harm across the study countries, as well as by gender and age, but the differences do not match the variation in population drinking and other indicators of harm. The implications of the findings for future research are discussed.
Generation of a severe convective ionospheric storm under stable Rayleigh–Taylor conditions: triggering by meteors?
Authors: Kelley M. C. , Ilma R. R.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Here we report on four events detected using the Jicamarca Radio Observatory (JRO) over an 18-year period, in which huge convective ionospheric storms (CISs) occur in a stable ionosphere. We argue that these rare events could be initiated by meteor-induced electric fields. The meteor-induced electric fields map to the bottomside of the F region, causing radar echoes and a localized CIS. If and when a localized disturbance reaches 500 km, we argue that it becomes two-dimensionally turbulent and cascades structure to both large and small scales. This leads to long-lasting structure and, almost certainly, to scintillations over a huge range of latitudes some ±15° wide and to 3 m irregularities, which backscatter the VHF radar waves. These structures located at high altitudes are supported by vortices shed by the upwelling bubble in a vortex street.
Modeling of ion dynamics in the inner geospace during enhanced magnetospheric activity
Authors: Tsironis C. , Anastasiadis A. , Katsavrias C. , Daglis I. A.
Published: February 2016

Abstract. We investigate the effect of magnetic disturbances on the ring current buildup and the dynamics of the current systems in the inner geospace by means of numerical simulations of ion orbits during enhanced magnetospheric activity. For this purpose, we developed a particle-tracing model that solves for the ion motion in a dynamic geomagnetic field and an electric field due to convection, corotation and Faraday induction and which mimics reconfigurations typical to such events. The kinematic data of the test particles is used for analyzing the dependence of the system on the initial conditions, as well as for mapping the different ion species to the magnetospheric currents. Furthermore, an estimation of Dst is given in terms of the ensemble-averaged ring and tail currents. The presented model may serve as a tool in a Sun-to-Earth modeling chain of major solar eruptions, providing an estimation of the inner geospace response.
Performance and applicability of a 2.5D ice-flow model in the vicinity of a dome
Authors: Passalacqua Olivier , Gagliardini Olivier , Parrenin Frédéric , Todd Joe , Gillet-Chaulet Fabien , Ritz Catherine
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Three-dimensional ice flow modelling requires a lot of computing resources and observation data, such that 2D simulations are often preferable, at least when the stream lines are parallel; otherwise the lateral divergence of the flow should be accounted for (2.5D models). Assuming that the stream lines follow the steepest slope of the surface, the width variations of a flow tube are computed thanks to the surface curvature. The ability of the 2.5D models to account properly for a 3D state of strain and stress has not clearly been established, especially their sensitivity on how the ice surface curvature is determined (scanning window on a DEM), and on the geometry of the ice surface. In particular, these models might fail for divergent flows, and need to be more clearly defined. A twin experiment is here carried out, comparing 3D and 2.5D computed velocities, on three dome geometries, for several scanning windows and thermal conditions. The chosen scanning window used to evaluate the ice surface curvature should be comparable to the typical size of the measured ice relief. For isothermal ice, the error made by the 2.5D model is in the range 0–10 % but for highly diverging flows the errors are 2 or 3 times higher and could lead to a non-physical reversed surface convexity at the dome. For non-isothermal ice, assuming a realistic temperature profile, the presence of a sharp ridge leads to a partly reversed velocity profile. The warmer bottom ice is more deformed than the upper ice, and this results in the non-verticality of the walls of the flow tube, violating the 2.5D assumptions.
A new X-ray transparent flow-through reaction cell for a μ-CT-based concomitant surveillance of the reaction progress of hydrothermal mineral-fluid interactions
Authors: Kahl Wolf-Achim , Hansen Christian , Bach Wolfgang
Published: February 2016

Abstract. A new flow-through reaction cell consisting of an X-ray transparent semicrystalline thermoplastic has been developed for percolation experiments. Core holder, tubing and all confining parts are designed of PEEK (polyetheretherketone) to allow concomitant surveillance of the reaction progress by X-ray microtomography (μ-CT). With this cell setup, corrosive or oversaturated fluids can be forced through rock cores (up to ∅ 19 mm) or powders at pressures up to 100 bars and temperatures up to 200 °C. The reaction progress of the experiment can be monitored without dismantling the sample from the core holder. The combination of this flow-through reaction cell setup with a laboratory X-ray μ-CT system facilitates on-demand monitoring of the reaction progress of (long-term) hydrothermal experiments in the own laboratory, keeping interruption times as short as possible. To demonstrate both the suitability of the cell construction material for X-ray imaging purposes and the experimental performance of the flow-through system, we report the virtually non-existent bias of the PEEK cell setup with distinctive X-ray observations (e. g., differing states of pore fillings: air vs. fluid; detection of delicate fabric elements: filigree zeolitic crystals overgrowing weathered muscovite), and the monitoring of the gypsum/anhydrite transition as a case study of a 4D fabric evolution.
Teaching Human Rights: Confronting the Contradictions
Authors: Hammond John L.
Published: February 2016

Teaching human rights means taking on a series of controversies over what human rights are, how they are determined, and how they are (or are not) upheld.  The "possession paradox" is that often human rights are declared but many, or even most, people do not actually enjoy them.  In teaching human rights we must convey both the promise of human rights and the discrepancy between that promise and their fulfillment.  I review a number of controversies in the current application of human rights, many of which arise from that discrepancy.  I then suggest the use of literary works and simulation games that can sometimes convey meanings more effectively than expository material.
Introduction: Radical Teaching About Human Rights Part II
Authors: Bennett Michael , O'Malley Susan
Published: February 2016

In our introduction to the first of these two issues of Radical Teacher devoted to “Radical Teaching About Human Rights,” we cautioned that all forms of Human Rights Education (HRE) are not radical.  The problem, we pointed out, with rights discourse is that it can mask the politics of how rights are defined, whose rights are recognized, and how they are enforced.  This problem becomes evident when HRE is bound up with a neoliberal, or worse than neoliberal, perspective that points fingers at others and rallies troops for supposedly humanitarian interventions while eliding the role of the United States as an imperializing settler colonial state.  Fortunately, we have once again received several essays that seem to us to be aware of this danger and provide admirable examples of radical teaching about human rights.
A Night For Human Rights
Authors: Lourie Julia
Published: February 2016

A review of "A Night For Human Rights", a contemporary art auction curated by Marc Mayer and Julia Lourie to call attention to urgent human rights violations including America's mass incarceration epidemic and the current Syrian refugee crisis.
Western Faculty Profile: Dr. Patrick O'Donoghue
Authors: Liang Emerald
Published: February 2016

Dr. Patrick O’Donoghue is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Biochemistry at the University of Western Ontario who currently holds the Canada Research Chair in Chemical Biology. His research is focused on non-canonical amino acids, more specifically on the synthesis of abnormal enzymes for industrial and medical applications. WURJHNS First Year Representative, Emerald Liang, had the pleasure of interviewing him to learn more about his research and career.
Taller de Escritura Creativa para el desarrollo de la Competencia Literaria en Brasil
Authors: Haba Osca Julia , Alcantud Díaz María , Peredo Hernández Joan
Published: February 2016

Este artículo describe una propuesta de innovación docente basada en la corriente educativa de la Educación para el Desarrollo, así como la mejora de Competencia Comunicativa en L2 y de las Competencias Literarias e Interculturales por medio de un taller diseñado para tal fin. El propósito de este artículo es doble: por un lado mostrar las posibilidades que ofrece el Taller de Escritura e Ilustración Creativa para el desarrollo de las Competencias Literaria, Intercultural y Comunicativa en L2. Se muestra cómo el taller cumple con las directrices marcadas por la Educación para el Desarrollo que se describe en el marco teórico. El segundo objetivo es narrar cómo se han organizado, coordinado e implementado el Taller de Escritura e Ilustración Creativa en la Universidade Federal do Amazonas en Manaos (Brasil), basándose en la metodología del aprendizaje basado en tareas, y cómo se ha conseguido (i) promover la creación de puentes para la consolidación de las relaciones bilaterales entre universidades; (ii) motivar la colaboración científica con los centros brasileños que cuentan con un departamento de español, y (iii) emplear y crear herramientas que permitan incluir la Educación para el Desarrollo.
La escritura de los jóvenes en los chats en el siglo XXI
Authors: Sánchez Martínez Sonia
Published: February 2016

El presente ensayo versa sobre la conversación escrita que mantienen los jóvenes hoy en sus chats. Se tratan las diferentes variedades lingüísticas. La escritura de los chats equivale a una conversación: los textos escritos se convierten en textos orales, las conversaciones se transcriben y las normas lingüísticas se rompen. Esto no significa que los jóvenes no sepan cuáles son, pero en los chats, no les interesan.
Política de assistência social e trabalho social com família: autonomia ou maternagem?
Authors: Cardoso Julietty Nunes , Teixeira Solange Maria
Published: February 2016

Com a intervenção do Estado Social as funções de proteção social passam a ser públicas. Todavia, os países diferem nas características de seus sistemas de proteção social, conforme se dê a relação entre mercado, Estado e família, nessa proteção, e outras características políticas, econômicas e culturais. No atual contexto, a família constitui foco das políticas públicas, em especial da Política de Assistência Social e se renovam as demandas pelo trabalho social com a família. O objetivo deste artigo é problematizar, definir e analisar o trabalho social com famílias no âmbito do Serviço de Proteção e Atendimento Integral à Família – PAIF, através de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental.
Positivismo e marxismo: o debate sobre a neutralidade científica e a construção do projeto profissional do Serviço Social brasileiro
Authors: Chagas Bárbara Da Rocha Figueiredo
Published: February 2016

O presente artigo apresenta a sistematização de reflexões teóricas acerca do debate da neutralidade nas ciências sociais e sua influência no Serviço Social brasileiro. A partir da apresentação da concepção de neutralidade científica defendida pela perspectiva positivista e sua contraposição a partir da teoria social marxista, faz-se uma reflexão acerca relação deste debate e sua histórica influência nas ciências sociais e no Serviço Social brasileiro. Retoma-se o movimento de rupturas e continuidades na trajetória de construção de um projeto profissional crítico para o Serviço Social, problematizando a existência de diferentes opções teórico-políticas que o corpo profissional pode adotar, individual e/ou coletivamente.
Direitos humanos e violência contra as mulheres: uma luta contra a sociedade patriarcal-racista-capitalista
Authors: Cisne Mirla
Published: February 2016

O objetivo deste artigo é  problematizar a importância da luta por direitos humanos no combate às violências contras as mulheres, inserindo essa luta nos limites e contradições de uma sociedade que têm a desigualdade e a exploração de classe, raça/etnia e sexo como elementos constituintes. Nesse entendimento, as múltiplas formas de violência contra a mulher, seja ela física, psicológica, sexual, obstétrica, patrimonial ou social, não resultam das relações individuais isoladamente, mas, sobretudo, são estruturadas pelas relações sociais de sexo, classe, raça/etnia que consubstanciam a sociedade patriarcal-racista-capitalista. São essas relações sociais que dão base à ideologia que naturaliza situações de violências às mulheres. É essa sociedade permeada por relações de opressão, exploração e também apropriação sobre as mulheres que promove cotidianamente situações de violência permeadas e potencializadas pela desigualdade de classe, pelo sexismo e pelo racismo, o que não apenas provoca a demanda pela luta por direitos humanos, mas a exige.  Falar em direitos humanos para as mulheres é falar na necessidade de lutar por uma sociedade sem violência e sem as apropriações, explorações e opressões que dão corpo as múltiplas violências contra as mulheres.
A Case Study on Improving Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Services Reliability: By Using Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA)
Authors: Yousefinezhadi Taraneh , Jannesar Nobari Farnaz Attar , Behzadi Goodari Faranak , Arab Mohammad
Published: February 2016

INTRODUCTION: In any complex human system, human error is inevitable and shows that can’t be eliminated by blaming wrong doers. So with the aim of improving Intensive Care Units (ICU) reliability in hospitals, this research tries to identify and analyze ICU’s process failure modes at the point of systematic approach to errors.

METHODS: In this descriptive research, data was gathered qualitatively by observations, document reviews, and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with the process owners in two selected ICUs in Tehran in 2014. But, data analysis was quantitative, based on failures’ Risk Priority Number (RPN) at the base of Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) method used. Besides, some causes of failures were analyzed by qualitative Eindhoven Classification Model (ECM).

RESULTS: Through FMEA methodology, 378 potential failure modes from 180 ICU activities in hospital A and 184 potential failures from 99 ICU activities in hospital B were identified and evaluated. Then with 90% reliability (RPN≥100), totally 18 failures in hospital A and 42 ones in hospital B were identified as non-acceptable risks and then their causes were analyzed by ECM.

CONCLUSIONS: Applying of modified PFMEA for improving two selected ICUs’ processes reliability in two different kinds of hospitals shows that this method empowers staff to identify, evaluate, prioritize and analyze all potential failure modes and also make them eager to identify their causes, recommend corrective actions and even participate in improving process without feeling blamed by top management. Moreover, by combining FMEA and ECM, team members can easily identify failure causes at the point of health care perspectives.
Health Impact Assessment of Urban Development Project
Authors: Shojaei Parisa , Karimlou Masoud , Mohammadi Farahnaz , Malekafzali Hosein
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND: Health impact assessment (HIA) has emerged to identify those activities and policies likely to have major impacts on the health of a population.

METHOD: In this research, qualitative method was applied to identifying health determinants that urban man made lake affect on them, formatting and weighing the hierarchy of the factors, calculating AHP, and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method for decide and ranking alternatives.

RESULTS: According to the results of the study, from the structural determinants point of view, the most positive effect of man-made lake was on Recreational services by 89.5% and the most negative one was on housing. According to intermediary determinants and general average, the most positive effect of lake was on physical activity and quality of air by 88.9% and the most negative one was on noise pollution by 46.7%. Ultimately, considering the positive and negative effects of lake between constructing and not constructing the lake option, the construction option was selected.

CONCLUSION: There is substantial potential to improve public health by bringing decision makers’ attention to the health consequences of their actions; city councilpersons, zoning commissioners, and other decision makers typically have little background in health.
Comparing the Effect of Metformin and Acarbose Accompanying Clomiphene on the Successful Ovulation Induction in Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Rezai Masomeh , Jamshidi Mohmmad , Mohammadbeigi Robabeh , Seyedoshohadaei Fariba , Mohammadipour Somaye , Moradi Ghobad
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of Metformin and Acarbose accompanying Clomiphene on the successful ovulation induction in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.This randomized double blind clinical trial study was performed on 60 women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Women were selected and randomly divided in two control and intervention groups. Intervention group received Acarbose 100 mg/day for 3 months. In the first, second, and third weeks, they received 1 tablet, 2 tablets, and 3 tablets per day respectively. In addition, they received 100 mg Clomiphene from third to seventh day of menstruation, during the 3 month treatment period. The control group received Metformin 500 mg/day for 3 months. In the first, second, and third weeks, they received 1 tablet, 2 tablets, and 3 tablets per day respectively. In addition, they received 100 mg Clomiphene from third to seventh day of menstruation, during the 3 month treatment period. All the subjects in both groups before and after the treatment were examined for hirsutism, acne, oral glucose tolerance test, serum triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL, HDL. Also, induction of ovulation was assessed by vaginal ultrasound. The Mean of BMI and fasting glucose tolerance test in Acarbose group was less than Metformin group (P = 0.05). The mean of triglycerides, LDL and HDL levels did not differ between the two groups after the intervention (P > 0.05). The mean of cholesterol levels were different in the two groups after the intervention (P = 0.04). Frequency of ovulation induction in those who received Acarbose (78.5%) was more than those who received Metformin (46.6) (P = 0.012). Comparing with Metformin, Acarbose accompanying Clomiphene was more effective in ovulation induction and decreasing body mass index in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
A Study to Determine the Frequency Rate of Scoliosis Disorder and Compare the Anthropometric Characteristics of Normal versus the Scoliosis Diagnosed Students
Authors: Khosravi Gholamreza , Sharif Mohammad Reza , Khosravi Erfan , Kardan Fatemeh , Kashani Hamed Haddad , Sayyah Mansour
Published: February 2016

INTRODUCTION: Postural deformities are commonly acquired disorders that occur throughout the life. The purpose of this research was to determine and compare the frequency of scoliosis disorder and anthropometric characteristics of normal versus the disordered Students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study that was performed on 1416 girls and boys of elementary school students in the city of Kashan in education year 2010-2011. Adams bending test was employed to examine 1416 students to identify the disorder. Seca scale was employed to measure weight and inflexible tape was used to measure the height of students. SPSS software was employed to analyze the data. 

RESULTS: The result of analysis showed that 63.8 percent of students were boys and 36.2 percent were girls. The frequency of scoliosis in boys and girls was 29.8 and 24.2 percent, respectively. Independent t-test result showed that there was a significant difference between the height and weight of normal versus the scoliosis identified boys and girls student (P=0.004, 0.031; 0.0001, 0.041).

CONCLUSION: These types of studies are conducted regularly to identify poor postural cases at an early stage. The identification of acquired deformities at an early stage is important since it provides the opportunity to take the appropriate measures to correct them.  Early identification of scoliosis is vital to maximize effectiveness of treatment.
The Health Tourists' Satisfaction Level of Services Provided: A Cross-Sectional Study in Iran
Authors: Varzi Ali Mohammad , Saki Koroush , Momeni Khalil , Rajabi Vasokolaei Ghasem , Khodakaramifard Zahra , Arab Zouzani Morteza , Jalilian Habib
Published: February 2016

INTRODUCTION: Patient satisfaction with provided services is used as an indicator of health care quality. Patient satisfaction is defined as patient perception of provided care compared to expected care. This study was administered to evaluate the health tourists' satisfaction of provided services in Lorestan University of Medical Sciences affiliated hospitals in 2015. 

METHOD: In this descriptive case study, 1800 (696 (54.4 %) men and 812 (45.6 % ) women, 74.5 province native) patients were selected by random sampling from among the patients of Lorestan University of Medical Sciences affiliated hospitals in 2015 spring. The data collection instrument is a semi-structured questionnaire in this study. The questionnaire has 62 general and specific items. Each of the specific items is scaled on four points; satisfied, fairly satisfied, dissatisfied and O.K.. In order to analyze the data both descriptive and inferential statistics were used.

RESULTS: Poldokhtar Imam Khomeini Hospital had the highest Level of satisfaction of 68 percent in all aspects (hoteling, discharge, paramedical, nurses, medical and admission) among the studied hospitals. Kuhdasht Imam Khomeini hospital had the lowest level of satisfaction of 53 percent. The overall satisfaction level in all hospitals was 61%.

DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: Despite the shortcomings observed in different areas, the results of the present study are in an intermediate status compared to other studies. While treating patients, patient-centered issue and patients ‘need and preferences should be focused on to enhance health care quality. Considering Patients preferences not only are morally good but also lead to improved care and access to sustainable care practices. Therefore it is needed to drive organizational management approach toward the customer preferences management and needs.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Mathematics Research, Vol. 8, No. 1
Authors: Wang Sophia
Published: February 2016

Journal of Mathematics Research wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal is greatly appreciated.

Many authors, regardless of whether Journal of Mathematics Research publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers.

Reviewers for Volume 8, Number 1

 

Alberto Simoes

Antonio Boccuto

Arman Aghili

Chung-Chuan Chen

Enrico Jabara

Kuldeep Narain Mathur

Luca Di Persio

Marek Brabec

Maria Alessandra Ragusa

Olivier Heubo-Kwegna

Ömür DEVECİ

Peng Zhang

Philip Philipoff

Prof. Sanjib Kumar Datta

R. Roopkumar

Rosalio G. Artes

Rovshan Bandaliyev

Saima Anis

Selcuk Koyuncu

Sergiy Koshkin

Vishnu Narayan Mishra

Waleed Al-Rawashdeh

Youssef El-Khatib

Zhongming Wang

 

Sophia Wang

On behalf of,

The Editorial Board of Journal of Mathematics Research

Canadian Center of Science and Education
Exercise and Mindfulness-Based-Stress-Reduction: A Multidimensional Approach Towards Cancer Survivorship Care
Authors: Timothy F. Marshall
Published: February 2016

Cancer survivors often experience a variety of physiological deficits resulting from cancer treatment such as reduced muscle strength, decreased range of motion and poor balance. Cancer survivors also commonly experience psychosocial side effects, such as anxiety, depression and fear of recurrence. Overall, it is common for cancer survivors to report a decrease in physical and emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life. Research suggests that improvements in physical health can be achieved through moderate intensity exercise such as light resistance training and moderate aerobic exercise in this population. Mindfulness-Based-Stress-Reduction (MBSR) programming utilizes various mind/body techniques that can reduce state anxiety levels, distress and depression. While cancer survivors face numerous physiological and psychological challenges, exercise interventions focus on physical health, while MBSR interventions focus on psychosocial health. The American Medical Association (AMA) recommends a patient’s care should include psychological, physiological, psychosocial and educational components, emphasizing the need for an integrated approach to cancer survivorship. Integrating exercise and MBSR interventions may serve to optimize the overall health and quality of life of a cancer survivor.
Effects of Bikram Yoga on Body Composition, Blood Pressure, and Sleep Patterns in Adult Practitioners
Authors: Charleston F. Marger  , Lori K. Hicklin  , Dena P. Garner
Published: February 2016

Studies have demonstrated positive results for people who practice traditional yoga, specifically in body mass index, depression, cancer, sleeping patterns, and diabetes. Most forms of traditional yoga are held in a temperate climate between 293 Kelvin (K) to 295 K; a temperature that is calming and places little stress on the body. Bikram yoga, however, is a more intense form of yoga performed in a hotter climate, typically at 314 K with 40% humidity. The purpose of this study was to determine how Bikram yoga affected blood pressure, body composition, and sleep patterns in beginner and intermediate/experienced practitioners. Participants (N=16) completed 8 weeks of sessions, ranging between 2 to 7 classes per week in a local Bikram yoga program conducted by certified instructors. All participants were assessed prior to the study and again at the end of the eight weeks. A BOD POD (an air displacement plethysmography) was used for body composition assessments, while a digital blood pressure cuff was used to assess blood pressure. In addition, participants were also surveyed on sleep parameters pre and post yoga participation. In combining all subjects, results showed there was a significant improvement (p=0.054) in faster time to fall asleep (27.66 min pre and 23.967 min post), and a trend (p=0.057) towards improved mean arterial pressure (92.20 mmHg pre and 88.33 mm Hg post). There were no differences in weight loss or percent body fat in subjects. This study indicates that there is a trend towards improved blood pressure and significant improvement in sleep parameters after 8 weeks of Bikram yoga for both intermediate/experienced and beginners, but no differences in body composition.
Mindfulness for Addiction Recovery: A Cognitive Disciplinary Preventive Approach to Avoid Relapse into Substance Abuse
Authors: Swarna Weerasinghe  , Shaun Bartone
Published: February 2016

The present paper is based on a literature review and a pilot study that observed a small group of participants in a bi-weekly substance abuse treatment program that employs mindfulness training to help subjects avoid relapse into substance abuse. “Mindfulness” is defined as a state of non-judgemental self-awareness. The program that we propose combines three treatment modalities: 1) yoga practice, 2) silent meditation practice, and 3) self-reflection, a peer-led discussion on issues affecting recovery from substance abuse. Discussion of issues affecting substance abuse employs “cognitive disciplines” derived from the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and Buddhist teachings on “mindfulness” and “relief from suffering”. The pilot study examines the effect of combining stress reduction and mindfulness of the body, induced by yoga practice; mindfulness of mental processes, aided by silent meditation, and self-awareness of one’s emotional and behavioural responses to stress, learned using the “cognitive disciplines”. This multi-disciplinary process is applied to influence one’s experience of stress and addictive patterns of behaviour. The present case study examines whether the combination of the three treatment modalities improves the participants’ ability to avoid relapse into substance abuse. This study follows an approach similar to the one used by Bryan and Zipp (2014) in their research involving the effects of mindfulness meditation during yoga and cycling from a physical-behavioural perspective and Groves’ (2014) approach to mental wellness. Our preliminary findings of the participants’ observations resulting from the pilot study and our literature review were combined into a theoretical framework which is comprised of a Three Pronged Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TPCBT) for addiction recovery.
Pensar y hacer cine hoy
Authors: Tomás Samit Adrián
Published: February 2016

Entender el cine como un medio de comunicación cultural me ha llevado a abordarlo en todo momento desde una perspectiva teórica y práctica en la que se combina la creación y edición del blog Anuncios para coches. Blog de cine dedicado al cine de autor, con la realización de cortometrajes documentales. En el texto se aborda principalmente la experiencia blogger a la hora de sacar adelante un espacio dedicado al descubrimiento y análisis fílmico de filmografías alejadas de la corriente dominante en la Web 2.0, es decir el cine mainstream, y del estilo habitual de un blog de cine, obteniendo unos resultados poco esperanzadores. Una línea similar afecta a la producción de un tipo de cine que comercialmente hoy no tiene su hueco, especialmente en nuestro país, como intentamos describir en el segundo bloque del texto dedicado a la experiencia como cineasta documental.
Los nexos entre discurso, guerra y poder a través de la retórica de los presidentes norteamericanos
Authors: Casero Ripollés Andreu
Published: February 2016

Reseña para la sección Tribuna.