Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Simultaneous anatomical sketching as learning by doing method of teaching human anatomy

. Ali Noorafshan; . Leila Hoseini; . Mitra Amini; . Mohammad‑Reza Dehghani; . Javad Kojuri; . Leila Bazrafkan

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Objective: Learning by lecture is a passive experience. Many innovative techniques have beenpresented to stimulate students to assume a more active attitude toward learning. In this ...  Read More Objective: Learning by lecture is a passive experience. Many innovative techniques have beenpresented to stimulate students to assume a more active attitude toward learning. In this study,simultaneous sketch drawing, as an interactive learning technique was applied to teach anatomyto the medical students. Materials and Methods: We reconstructed a fun interactive model ofteaching anatomy as simultaneous anatomic sketching. To test the model’s instruction effectiveness,we conducted a quasi‑ experimental study and then the students were asked to write their learningexperiences in their portfolio, also their view was evaluated by a questionnaire. Results: The resultsof portfolio evaluation revealed that students believed that this method leads to deep learning andunderstanding anatomical subjects better. Evaluation of the students’ views on this teaching approachwas showed that, more than 80% of the students were agreed or completely agreed with this statementthat leaning anatomy concepts are easier and the class is less boring with this method. More than60% of the students were agreed or completely agreed to sketch anatomical figures with professorsimultaneously. They also found the sketching make anatomy more attractive and it reduced the timefor learning anatomy. These number of students were agree or completely agree that the method helpthem learning anatomical concept in anatomy laboratory. More than 80% of the students found thesimultaneous sketching is a good method for learning anatomy overall. Conclusion: Sketch drawing,as an interactive learning technique, is an attractive for students to learn anatomy.

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A survey on rate of media literacy among Isfahan University of Medical Sciences’ students using Iranian media literacy questionnaire

. Hasan Ashrafi‑rizi; . Zahra Ghazavi Khorasgani; . Fateme Zarmehr; . Zahra Kazempour

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  Introduction: Media literacy is a 21st century approach to education. It provides a framework toaccess, analyze, evaluate, and create messages in a variety of forms ‑ from print to ...  Read More Introduction: Media literacy is a 21st century approach to education. It provides a framework toaccess, analyze, evaluate, and create messages in a variety of forms ‑ from print to video to theInternet. Also, it builds an understanding of the role of media in society as well as essential skillsof inquiry and self‑expression necessary for citizens of a democracy. The purpose of this researchwas to determine the rate of media literacy among Isfahan University of Medical Sciences’students using Iranian Media Literacy Questionnaire (IMLQ). Materials and Methods: Thisis a survey research in which the data were collected by a researcher‑made questionnaire.Its validity and reliability were confirmed by Library and Information Sciences specialists andChronbach’s alpha (r = 0.89), respectively. Statistical population consisted of all students inIsfahan University of Medical Sciences (7000 cases) and the samples were 364. Samplingmethod was random stratified sampling. Data were analyzed by descriptive (frequencydistribution, mean) and inferential (T‑test, ANOVA, and one‑sample t‑test) statistics throughSPSS16 software. Results: The findings showed that the mean level of media literacy amongIsfahan University of Medical Sciences’ students was 3.20 ± 0.558 (higher than average).The highest mean was skill in avoiding confusion and focus on activates such as watchingtelevision, listening to radio, reading newspaper, and using internet; and the lowest mean wasskill in membership and subscription in useful society networks. The mean of evaluation ofmedia messages dimension was more than others. The lowest mean of dimensions was forselective and purposeful use of media with 2.99 ± 0.761. Comparison between gender, marriedstatus, educational degree, and college type and the rate of media literacy among IsfahanUniversity of Medical Sciences’ students showed no significant difference. Conclusion: Theresults showed that the rate of media literacy among Isfahan University of Medical Sciences’students was higher than average. But students didn’t have enough skill in membership andsubscription in useful society networks and Skill in tracking news about your favorite artistsand musicians. Generally, all students and education practitioners should pay special attentionto factors affecting in improving media literacy as a basic capability in using media.

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Nutritional status and its relationship with bone mass density in postmenopausal women admitted in osteodensitometry center, Isfahan‑Iran

. Zamzam Paknahad; . Noushin Mohammadifard; . Zahra Bonakdar; . Akbar Hasanzadeh

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Introduction: Osteoporosis is a multifactorial disease and one of the most important modifiablefactors in the development and maintenance of bone mass are nutrition nutritional status ...  Read More Introduction: Osteoporosis is a multifactorial disease and one of the most important modifiablefactors in the development and maintenance of bone mass are nutrition nutritional status and itsrelationship with Bone Mass Density (BMD) in postmenopausal women admitted in osteodensitometryCenter, Isfahan, Iran. Materials and Methods: Seventy‑two postmenopausal osteoporotic womenwere studied. BMD of the lumbar spine and total hip were measured using dual‑energy X‑rayabsorptiometry. Demographic and dietary intakes were collected by interview and using a validatedfood frequency questionnaires. T‑scores, Pearson correlation and one way analysis of variancetests were conducted to analyze the data. Results: Mean of age and duration of menopause wasnearly 57.5 ± 7.2 and 10.6 ± 7.1 years, respectively. The mean t‑scores for BMD of spine and hipwere 0.877 ± 0.179 and 0.997 ± 0.21, respectively. The mean of calcium (Ca), phosphorous (P),fluoride (F), Vitamin D, K and Zn were less than DRI and Na more than it (all P value less than0.0001). BMD of hip was significantly correlated with dietary Ca, animal protein, Zn (P < 0.05), butBMD of spine did not show any significant correlation with nutrients (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Mostof the postmenopausal osteoporotic women in this study had a considerable deficiency in terms ofmicronutrients such as Ca, vitamin D and P, which can be deleterious for bone health.

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A questionnaire survey of awareness of physical activity among the faculties of medical college

. Manjunatha Goud; . Narendra Pamidi; . Oinam S. Devi; . Bhavn Nayal; . Ullas Kamath; . Raghuveer

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-3

Abstract

  Background: The physical activity in teaching faculties is an important aspect to maintaingood health. This not only prevents the various non - communicable diseases but also hasrole ...  Read More Background: The physical activity in teaching faculties is an important aspect to maintaingood health. This not only prevents the various non - communicable diseases but also hasrole in secondary prevention of diseases. It is also proven that the growing epidemic ofobesity mostly in children is linked to recent decline in physical activity levels both in home,school and working places. Social class is thought to have a bearing on physical activity. Onbasis of this, the survey was done to assess the physical activity levels in higher social classpopulation i.e. on teaching faculty of Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka,India. Materials and Methods: Questionnaire study was implemented in 2010 as the design ofthis research without any manual intervention. No experiment was conducted in the research.Questions were specific and related to the physical activities in home and also in workingenvironment. Results: The study found that in medical college the lifestyle is restricted mostlyto sedentary and moderate work. Most of faculties were using bike and cars to reach thereworking place and also we found the physical activities in the form of exercise and sports activitywere lacking. Discussion: In addition to the importance of a physical activity professional’spotential influence on others as a model, engaging in a physically active lifestyle is veryimportant for personal reasons. Achieving and maintaining a health-enhancing level of physicalfitness is one of the basic standards for good teaching and maintaining good health. Physicalactivity in professionals leads to both personal health benefits, and improve job satisfaction.Conclusion: Infrastructure improvements such as sports activity in colleges among faculties,combined with regular exercise provide additional physical activity that would help reduceobesity and non-communicable diseases.

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Making environmental health interesting for medical students‑internet assisted facilitated collaborative learning approach

. Manni Balasubramaniam Sudharsanam

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-3

Abstract

  Background: Topics on environmental health are usually neglected by students and it is necessaryfor them to learn this area with a public health perspective as environment plays a vital ...  Read More Background: Topics on environmental health are usually neglected by students and it is necessaryfor them to learn this area with a public health perspective as environment plays a vital role inmulti‑factorial causation of diseases. Hence there is a need for alternative teaching/learningmethods to facilitate students in acquiring the required knowledge. Objectives: To increase thestudent interest and enhance their participation in acquiring knowledge in public health perspectiveof environmental health. Teaching Objectives/Learning Were: At the end of the session studentsshould know the importance of air as an environmental factor in disease causation in specialreference to public health hazards, the major sources of air pollution, major pollutants causing thehealth hazards, the way to measure pollutants and control them. Materials and Methods: Thewhole class of students was divided into two batches and one session was planned for eachbatch. Each batch was divided into six small groups. The groups were given task of exploringthe internet on the different topics mentioned in the learning objectives. All the students wereasked to explore, compile information and collectively prepare a presentation and present theirfindings based on their reviews. Students’ feedback was collected at the end of each session.Results: Eighty five percent of them were clear about the learning objectives and interested aboutinternet learning. Most of them gave a positive opinion about the newer teaching learning method.Conclusions: Internet assisted group study served as a valuable alternative, innovative, andinteresting tool to teach and learn the environmental health as revealed by students’ feedback.

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Yoga therapy for promoting emotional sensitivity in University students

. Tikhe Sham Ganpat; . Sasmita Dash; . Nagendra Hongasandra Ramarao

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-3

Abstract

  Background: Students need emotional intelligence (EI) for their better academic excellence.There are three important psychological dimensions of EI: Emotional sensitivity (ES), emotionalmaturity ...  Read More Background: Students need emotional intelligence (EI) for their better academic excellence.There are three important psychological dimensions of EI: Emotional sensitivity (ES), emotionalmaturity (EM) and emotional competency (EC), which motivate students to recognize truthfully,interpret honestly and handle tactfully the dynamics of their behavioral pattern. Objective: Thestudy was designed to assess ES in the students undergoing yoga therapy program in theform of yoga instructor’s course (YIC) module. Materials and Methods: One hundred andeighty four YIC students with 25.77 ± 4.85 years of mean age participated in this study of21 days duration (a single group pre‑post design). The ES data was collected before (pre)and after (post) YIC module using Emotional Quotient test developed by Dr Dalip Singhand Dr N K Chadha. Statistical Analysis: Means, standard deviations, Kolmogorov‑Smirnovtest, and Wilcoxon signed rank test were used for analyzing the data with the help of SPSS16. Results: The data analysis showed 3.63% significant increase (P < 0.01) in ES.Conclusion: The present study suggests that YIC module can result in improvement ofES among university students, thus paving the way for their academic success. Additionalwell‑designed studies are needed before a strong recommendation can be made.

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Study skills and habits in Shiraz dental students; strengths and weaknesses

. Ladan Zarshenas; . Shahla Momeni Danaei; . Elham Mazarei; . Hooman Zarif Najafi; . Mahsa Shakour

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Introduction: The dental students, the same as other students, during their academiccourses are required to learn a wide range of scientific subjects. Obviously, choosingthe inappropriate ...  Read More Introduction: The dental students, the same as other students, during their academiccourses are required to learn a wide range of scientific subjects. Obviously, choosingthe inappropriate method of study leads to confuse and disenchantment of students andit causes wasting of their energy. The purpose of this study was to assess the existingstrengths and weaknesses of the skills and study habits in Dental Students of ShirazUniversity of Medical Sciences in 2009‑10. Materials and Methods: In this cross‑sectionalstudy, all of the dental students (n = 274), who studied at the time of study at all levels inthe academic year of 2009‑10, were selected by the census. Data were collected by usingthe Huston University questionnaire consisted of two parts of demographic questionsand 64 specific areas of study skills in eight domains of time management, concentration/memory, study aids/note taking, test strategies, information processing, motivation,self‑assessment/reading, and writing skills. Following the retranslation of the questionnaire,the validity was confirmed by using the content validity method. The reliability was obtainedby using the Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.92. The data were analyzed with SPSS softwareversion 17 and using analytical statistic tests. Results: Students who have previouslyparticipated in the study skills workshops had stronger skills in comparison with thestudents who had not participated in these workshops. Time management skills (P = 0.04),motivation (P = 0.0001) and information processing (P = 0.03) in students with professionalstatus were in a more favorable position and showed significant differences in terms ofeducational levels. The study skills mean score of the students living in student housingsin comparison with the other students were significantly higher (P = 0.04). Marital statusshowed no significant differences in reading skills. Conclusion and Recommendations:The review of study skills in the undergraduate and post‑graduate dental students indicatedthat the residents had higher reading skills.By recognizing the existing strengths andweaknesses and holding programs throughcounseling centers can develop the studyskills in the students.

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The effects of breast cancer educational intervention on knowledge and health beliefs of women 40 years and older, Isfahan, Iran

. Mohsen Rezaeian; . Gholamreza Sharifirad; . Firoozeh Mostafavi; . Mitra Moodi; . Mohammad Hadi Abbasi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: Breast cancer is an international health problem in the world over.Mammography screening behavior has critical role in early detection and decreasing ofits mortality. ...  Read More Introduction: Breast cancer is an international health problem in the world over.Mammography screening behavior has critical role in early detection and decreasing ofits mortality. Educational programs play an important role in promoting breast cancerscreening behaviors and women health. Health belief models (HBM) is the most commonmodels that have been applied in Mammography screening behaviors. The aim of thisstudy was to determine the effect of breast cancer screening education using HBM onknowledge and health beliefs in 40 years women and older. Materials and Methods: In thisPopulation‑based controlled trial, 290 women of 40 years and older were divided randomlyinto experimental and control groups. Health beliefs determined using the Persian versionof Champion’s health belief model scale (CHBMS). Questionnaires were completed beforeand 4 weeks after intervention. Four educational sessions were conducted each sessionlasting 90 min by lecturing, group discussion, showing slide and educational film basedon HBM constructs. The obtained data were analyzed by SPSS (version 18) and statisticaltest at the significant level of a = 0.05. Results: Mean scores of perceived susceptibility,perceived severity, perceived benefits, barriers and self‑efficacy of mammography andhealth motivation in the experimental group had significant differences in comparisonwith the control group after educational intervention (P ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: The resultsof this study have confirmed the efficiency of educational intervention based on HBMin increasing of knowledge and health beliefs about breast cancer and mammographyscreening behavior. Hence, implementing appropriate educational programs with focuson benefits of Mammography in early detection of breast cancer and creating positivemotivation for health among women, can increase their practice of having mammographyscreening.

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Comparison of national and personal identity between person with internet addiction disorder and normal internet users

. Seyyed Salman Alavi; . Fereshte Jannatifard; . Mohammad R. Maracy; . Hamed Alaghemandan; . Mehrdad Setare

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-7

Abstract

  Backgrounds: The present study was carried out in order to compare national and personalidentity and their subscales in internet addicts and nonaddicts. Materials and Methods: This ...  Read More Backgrounds: The present study was carried out in order to compare national and personalidentity and their subscales in internet addicts and nonaddicts. Materials and Methods: This studywas a descriptive-analytical research, and was carried out on 384 student internet users indifferent universities in the city of Isfahan who were selected using quota sampling. Subjectscompleted the questionnaires, then, subscales of personal and national identity questionnairesin internet addict and nonaddict were analyzed via SPSS16 software. Results: Results indicateda significant difference between the scores of national identity and personal identity as well asall subscales in internet addicts and nonaddicts, except for national heritage and homelanddefence factors. In addition, there was a negative and significant relationship between addictionto internet and personal and national identity, except for the fourth and fifth factors of nationalidentity (viewpoints of others considering the national group and homeland defence). Moreover,after controlling for the sex variable, internet addiction had an effect on personal and nationalidentity. Conclusion: The findings of this research indicate that an excess of internet use andoverinvolvement in cyberspace and the addiction to them, could be associated with defectsin some aspects of national and personal identity.

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Investigation of the age trends in patients with breast cancer and different sizes of tumors in Breast Cancer Research Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2001‑2010

. Mehdi Tazhibi; . Zahra Fazeli Dehkordi; . Shadi Babazadeh; . Maryam Tabatabaeian; . Parisa Rezaei; . Mehri Faghihi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Background: Breast cancer is the most common cause of death in women in the age rangeof 35‑55 years. Each year, one or two cases of breast cancer per 1000 women are diagnosedas new ...  Read More Background: Breast cancer is the most common cause of death in women in the age rangeof 35‑55 years. Each year, one or two cases of breast cancer per 1000 women are diagnosedas new cases. Despite the serious prognosis and high rate of morbidity, mortality, andpathogenicity, in the case of early diagnoses, the prognosis will be better. The aim of thisstudy was to investigate the age trends in breast cancer patients with different sizes of tumorsin Breast Cancer Research Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2001‑2010.Materials and Methods: The information in radiotherapy and oncology of Isfahan University ofMedical Sciences and Milad Hospital from 2001 to 2010 were coded and analyzed. Frequencyof patients’ age groups, tumor sizes and the year of cancer diagnosis were calculated.Correlation test was used for data analysis in statistical analysis in social science (SPSS)software version 18. Findings: Among the 3722 patients with breast cancer, the highestrelative frequency distribution, respectively was observed in the age of 40‑49 years (34.4%),50‑59 years (26.6%), 30‑39 years (17.7%), 60‑69 years (13.2%), 20‑29 years (2.5%), 70 yearsand older (5.2%) and less than 20 years. Relative frequency distribution of tumor sizes in avariety of 5 cm (T2) was with the frequency of 59.8%, and then 26% at 5 cm (T3), 10.5% at2 cm (T1), 3.1% at T4 and 0.6 at In‑situ, respectively. Conclusion: The investigation of agetrends showed that diagnosis rate of breast cancer increased from 2001 to 2004. It reached itshighest value in 2006 at the age range of 30‑39 years. Then, the trend has been downward, andit has continued to decline until 2010, whichcould be the result of the equipping screeningsystem and recording the malignant cases.85.8% of the examined tumors in T2 and T3group were visible and may be disturbing.Comparing the frequency distribution of theinfected population showed that the highestincidence of breast cancer diagnosis were inthe age range of 40‑49 years. It seems that aslong as the mass has not reached an obviouspalpable state, it has not been diagnosed.

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Influencing factors on health promoting behavior among the elderly living in the community

. Javad Harooni; . Akbar Hassanzadeh; . Firoozeh Mostafavi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: Health promotion behavior is one of the main criteria for determining health thatis recognized as the basic factor in catching numerous diseases. Observing such behaviors ...  Read More Introduction: Health promotion behavior is one of the main criteria for determining health thatis recognized as the basic factor in catching numerous diseases. Observing such behaviors bythe elderly prevents affliction to various diseases and has potential effect in promoting healthand increasing the elderly quality of life. This research was done for the aim of determiningeffective factors on health promotion behaviors and health status in the elderly of the Denaprovince. Materials and Methods: One hundred twenty elderly of over 65 years of agewere selected randomly to do this descriptive‑analytical study (cross‑sectional type). Thequestionnaire regarding health promoting lifestyle profile 2 (HPLP2) was used for measuringthe rate of health promotion behaviors. The data was collected by personal interviews andface to face method for completing the relevant questionnaire and was analyzed by SPSSsoftware version 20 and also proper tests. Results: The average score of the elderly healthpromotion behaviors in the Dena province (143.8) indicated the acceptable level of performinghealth promoting behaviors in this group, such that 85% of the elderly had intermediatehealth promoting behaviors and 15% had proper behaviors. Also, the results showed that theaverage score of the physical activity and nutrition sub‑measuring conditions was lower thanthe average score of other sub measures of prevention had the highest average. Moreover,comparison of the correlation of health promotion behaviors with the sub‑measures showedthat apart from the healthy nutrition sub‑measure, all the other sub‑measures have significantcorrelation with health promotion behaviors. Conclusion: From the findings of this study,the authors recommend health providers to promote elderly health promotion behaviors inall communities by identifying health promotion behaviors in other parts of the country, andalso designing suitable intervention programs based on effective factors on health promotionbehaviors of the elderly people.

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Evaluation of pharmacy information system in teaching, private and social services Hospitals in 2011

. Sakineh Saghaeiannejad-Isfahani; . Razieh Mirzaeian; . Hasan Jannesari; . Asghar Ehteshami; . Awat Feizi; . Ahmadreza Raeisi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Objective: Supporting a therapeutic approach and medication therapy management, thepharmacy information system (PIS) acts as one of the pillars of hospital information system.This ensures ...  Read More Objective: Supporting a therapeutic approach and medication therapy management, thepharmacy information system (PIS) acts as one of the pillars of hospital information system.This ensures that medication therapy is being supported with an optimal level of safety andquality similar to other treatments and services. Materials and Methods: The present studyis an applied, cross‑sectional study conducted on the PIS in use in selected hospitals. Theresearch population included all users of PIS. The research sample is the same as the researchpopulation. The data collection instrument was the self‑designed checklist developed from theguidelines of the American Society of Health System Pharmacists, Australia pharmaceuticalSociety and Therapeutic guidelines of the Drug Commission of the German Medical Association.The checklist validity was assessed by research supervisors and PIS users and pharmacists.Findings: The findings of this study were revealed that regarding the degree of meeting thestandards given in the guidelines issued by the Society of Pharmacists, the highest rank inobserving input standards belonged to Social Services hospitals with a mean score of 32.75.Although teaching hospitals gained the highest score both in process standards with a meanscore of 29.15 and output standards with a mean score of 43.95, the private hospitals had thelowest mean score of 23.32, 17.78, 24.25 in input, process and output standards, respectively.Conclusion: Based on the findings, it can be claimed that the studied hospitals had a minimalcompliance with the input, output and processing standards related to the PIS.

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Correlation of transrectal ultrasonographic findings with histo pathology in prostatic cancer

. Farooq Ahmad Ganie; . Mohd Saleem Wanie; . Shabir Ahmad Ganie; . Masaratul Gani; . Mohd Farooq Mir; . Naseer Ahmad Khan

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-3

Abstract

  Objective: To estimate the incidence of hyperechoic, hypoechoic, isoechoic, prostatic cancer inTRUS (transrectal ultrasound guided) guided prostatic specimens. Materials and Methods: ...  Read More Objective: To estimate the incidence of hyperechoic, hypoechoic, isoechoic, prostatic cancer inTRUS (transrectal ultrasound guided) guided prostatic specimens. Materials and Methods: Fourhundred and ninety three patients with raised serum prostatic specific antigen (PSA) andabnormal DRE findings were subjected to TRUS‑Guided prostate biopsy. Lateralized sextantbiopsy plus prostatic cores from suspicious areas were obtained. Results: Out of 493 patientswho were enrolled in the study, 65 (13.18) patients showed hyperechoic lesions on TRUS and211 (42.79) patients had hypoechoic lesions on TRUS. Conclusion: Our study has revealedthat hyperechoic lesions on transrectal ultrasonography have more chances of prostaticcancer as reported in previous literature, so we suggest that we should take additional biopsyof hyperechoic lesions and perhaps it should be part of the standard protocol in patientssuspected cancer prostate.

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Analyzing the level of knowledge and attitude of the mothers referring the urban health centers of Birjand about nutritional behaviors

. Omolbanin Motamed Rezaei; . Mitra Moodi; . Nahid Moazam

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Background: Achieving a balanced and proper nutrition is one of the most important healthobjectives in the early years of the child’s life. The aim of this study is to determine ...  Read More Background: Achieving a balanced and proper nutrition is one of the most important healthobjectives in the early years of the child’s life. The aim of this study is to determine the level ofknowledge and attitude of the mothers covered by the urban health centers of Birjand aboutnutritional behaviors. Materials and Methods: This descriptive‑analytical study was conductedon the mothers with children less than five years referring the health centers of Birjand, in 1387.A questionnaire was prepared for data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS software,Chi square, ANOVA, Tukey’s post hoc and Pearson correlation coefficient statistical tests with aaccuracy level of P < 0.05. Results: Two hundred ninety four patients were studied. A meaningfuldifference was observed between the knowledge and attitude scores in terms of the mothers’education stand (P = 0.002). Eighty three point seven percent, 65.6%, 82.7% and 64.6% ofmothers were aware about the importance of iron absorption, the onset of iron supplement drop,the minerals and vitamins in the body, and the effects of vitamin A deficiency, respectively. Themothers’ knowledge and attitude about the nutritional behavior was evaluated at the average andgood level, respectively. Conclusions: Considering the average level of the mothers’ knowledgeand attitude about children’s nutritional behaviors, the retraining of family physicians and healthcenters staff about the importance of nutritional behaviors is recommended.

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The rate commitment to ISO 214 standard among the persian abstracts of approved research projects at school of health management and medical informatics, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

. Ahmad Papi; . Davoud Khalaji; . Hasan Ashrafi Rizi; . Ahmad Shabani; . Akbar Hassanzadeh

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: Commitment to abstracting standards has a very significant role in informationretrieval. The present research aimed to evaluate the rate of Commitment to ISO 214Standard ...  Read More Introduction: Commitment to abstracting standards has a very significant role in informationretrieval. The present research aimed to evaluate the rate of Commitment to ISO 214Standard among the Persian abstracts of approved research projects at School of HealthManagement and Medical Informatics, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.Materials and Methods: This descriptive study used a researcher‑made checklist to collect data,which was then analyzed through content analysis. The studied population consisted of 227approved research projects in the School of Health Management and Medical Informatics, IsfahanUniversity of Medical Sciences during 2001‑2010. The validity of the checklist was measured byface and content validity. Data was collected through direct observations. Statistical analyzesincluding descriptive (frequency distribution and percent) and inferential statistics (Chi‑squaretest) were performed in SPSS‑16. Results: The highest and lowest commitment rates to ISO 214standard were in using third person pronouns (100%) and using active verbs (34/4%), respectively.In addition, the highest commitment rates to ISO 214 standard (100%) related to mentioning thirdperson pronouns, starting the abstract with a sentence to explain the subject of the research,abstract placement, and including keyword in 2009. On the other hand, during 2001‑2003, thelowest commitment rate was observed in reporting research findings (16/7%). Moreover, variouseducational groups differed significantly only in commitment to study goals, providing researchfindings, and abstaining from using abbreviations, signs, and acronyms. Furthermore, educationallevel of the corresponding author was significantly related with extracting the keywords from thetext. Other factors of ISO 214 standard did not have significant relations with the educational levelof the corresponding author. Conclusions: Ingeneral, a desirable rate of commitment to ISO214 standard was observed among the Persianabstracts of approved research projects at theSchool of Health Management and MedicalInformatics of Isfahan University of MedicalSciences. However, commitment rates differedbetween years. In addition, commitment to ISO214 standard was not significantly related witheducational group and level.

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Job satisfaction survey among health centers staff

. Hossein Shahnazi; . Seyede Shahrbanoo Daniali; . Gholamreza Sharifirad

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Background: Due to the importance of health care organizations with significantresponsibility for prevention and care, assessment of job satisfaction among health carestaff is essential. ...  Read More Background: Due to the importance of health care organizations with significantresponsibility for prevention and care, assessment of job satisfaction among health carestaff is essential. Quality of health services will be decreased provided they are not satisfied.Materials and Methods: This study was a cross‑sectional analysis of health care staff inKhomeinishahr (centers, buildings, and networks) If they had at least 6 months work experience,they could enter the study. Data included a two‑part questionnaire with a standardizedquestionnaire, demographic variables, and Smith job descriptive index, which is a questionnairewith six domains. Reliability was obtained for each domain and its validity was reported 0.93.Findings: The results showed an overall satisfaction score averages 43.55 ± 12.8 (from 100). Jobsatisfaction score was not significantly different between the sexes. However, within the currentattitude toward job satisfaction, men scores was better than women (P = 0.001). Highest scorein job satisfaction was related to relationships with colleagues and lowest score was related tothe income, benefits, and job promotion.The more the years of work, the less the job satisfactionwas. The attitude toward the current job had a direct relationship with income (P = 0.01). Therewas a significant inverse relationship between educational level and job satisfaction in domainspromotion, income, and benefits (P = 0.01). The staff with higher education levels was lesssatisfied with income and job promotion qualification. Conclusion: Managers should focus onjob qualification to increase job satisfaction and improve the quality of work.

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Comparison between student rating, faculty self‑rating and evaluation of faculty members by heads of respective academic departments in the school of medicine in Birjand University of Medical Sciences in Iran

. Mohammad Mehdi Hassanzadeh Taheri; . Hamid Reza Ryasi; . Mohammad Afshar; . Mohammad Reza Mofatteh

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: University teachers are one of the main pillars of university and the quality of theirperformance must continuously and systematically be evaluated. This evaluation can ...  Read More Introduction: University teachers are one of the main pillars of university and the quality of theirperformance must continuously and systematically be evaluated. This evaluation can be carriedout in various ways. The aim of the present study was to survey and to compare the evaluationof faculty members in the medical school in Birjand University of Medical Sciences by threedifferent sources: Student rating, self‑assessment, and evaluation by head of related department.Materials and Methods: This descriptive analytical cross‑sectional study was conducted in theacademic year 2009‑2010. Sampling was drawn from all students studying basic science andclinical training in the first and the second semesters. All heads of departments in basic scienceand clinical training and their faculty members took part in this study. Means of data collectionwere four different questionnaires designed in the education development center (EDC) and theirvalidity and reliability had been verified by the center. These questionnaires were based on studentrating, self‑assessment, and evaluation of faculty members by heads of clinical and basic sciencesacademic departments. After the questionnaires were filled out, the obtained data was analyzedby Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 13), independent t‑test,and Pearson’s correlation coefficient at the significant level of  = 0.05. Results: In the presentstudy, 2417 students completed the questionnaires regarding 63 faculty members, 87 facultymembers completed the self‑assessment form, and for 60 faculty members, 48 members in clinicaland 12 members in basic science, the questionnaires were completed by heads of respectivedepartments. Mean and standard deviation of student evaluation, self‑assessment, and teachersevaluation by heads of departments were 3.23 ± 0.38, 3.51 ± 0.33, and 3.60 ± 0.32, respectively,and the difference between student rating andself‑assessment was significant (P = 0.02). Incomparing between managers scores withstudents evaluation, no significant differencewas observed (P = 0.68). Comparisonbetween self‑assessment and teachersscores by managers showed a significantdifference (P = 0.04). Mean scores of facultymembers in clinical training and in basicscience were 3.23 ± 0.73 and 3.31 ± 0.69on the part of students, respectively; thus,the difference was significant (P = 0.004).Conclusion: Since, the present study wasinconsistent with similar previously carried out investigations, the observed difference amongthe three procedures was statically significant; hence, it can be suggested that student’s scoresof teachers evaluation, previously used as the only one of evaluation source is not enough andother sources such as assessment by the respective department heads, dean of faculty, andself‑assessment must also be taken into consideration. This collection can definitely yield a morefavorable evaluation of faculty members and feedback can be more acceptable to them and itwill be more effective in improving their education.

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The relationship between residents’ interest to their specialty field and their level of anxiety

. Fariborz Khorvash; . Sahar Vesal; . Nikoo Yamani; . Arash Hadadgar; . Nooshin Mehrbod

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: Studies showed that lack of interest in the field of study in the 1st year of residencycould create stress and then causing psychological problems like anxiety. The purpose ...  Read More Introduction: Studies showed that lack of interest in the field of study in the 1st year of residencycould create stress and then causing psychological problems like anxiety. The purpose of this studywas the evaluation of relationship between interest to the specialized field of study and the level ofmedical residents’ anxiety in 2010. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross‑sectional study.The statistical population of this study was the medical residents (1st‑4th year) from the Universitiesof Medical Sciences of Isfahan, Gilan, Sanandaj and Kashan (370 residents). They were selected bystratified sampling method proportional to size and were included in this study. Data was collectedby using the researcher‑made questionnaire of demographic characteristics, the questionnaireabout the field of study selection and Zung anxiety self‑assessment standard questionnaire. Thefindings were analyzed by using the SPSS statistical software version 16, descriptive and analyticaltests (t‑test, one‑way ANOVA and Pearson). The significance level was considered as P ≤ 0.05.Results: The results showed that more than 92% of the surveyed residents did not have anxietyand were in the normal group. There was a significant correlation between the specialized field ofinterest and anxiety scores of the residents (P < 0.05). In particular, the following cases had a directeffect on interest rates and anxiety in residents: the amount of time for visiting and patient care, jobstress, time for personal affairs, the ability to predict the agenda and job security. Conclusions: Therelationship between various factors and anxiety level was corroborated that the residents’ interestand success in studying was the result of their choices and management plans to eliminate barriersfor the selection of the field and the favorite city by the officials and planners.

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Do Iranian tobacco growers support the World Health Organization framework convention on tobacco control?

. Nizal Sarrafzadegan; . Katayoun Rabiei; . Khadijeh Fereydoun Mohaseli; . Leila Manzouri; . Hamidreza Roohafza; . Roya Kelishadi; . Heidarali Abedi; . Hasan Azaripour Masooleh; . Mousa Alavi; . Gholamreza Heidari

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-5

Abstract

  Context:Studies on the World Health Organization Frame‑work Convention on Tobacco Control(FCTC)are scarce in Iran and the Eastern Mediterranean region (EMR). Aim: This study was conducted ...  Read More Context:Studies on the World Health Organization Frame‑work Convention on Tobacco Control(FCTC)are scarce in Iran and the Eastern Mediterranean region (EMR). Aim: This study was conducted in2007‑2008 in Iran to design a practical evaluation model of the implementation of FCTC with thepotential to be adopted in the EMR. Given that, the findings of this evaluation can be useful in increasingpolitical and public support for enforcing the implementation of legislations, testing their feasibility, andmaintaining sustainability. The viewpoints of tobacco growers as part of stakeholders in this regardwouldhave an influential role. Settings and Design:This study was a qualitative one to investigate the tobaccogrowers viewpoints about thestrengths/weaknesses of FCTC implementation in Iran. Materials andMethods: In this study, we conducted semi‑structured in‑depth individual interviews with 5 tobaccogrowers. All interviews were carried out with their permissionwere recorded and were assured thattheir interviews will be kept confidential. All questions were related to different FCTC articles, thenwritten transcripts were prepared and the basic concepts were extrapolated. Statistical Analysis:Aftertranscribing the recorded interviews, we extracted first level codes and main concepts from them.Results: The findings suggested that although tobacco growers agreed with FCTC implementation,however, subjects like the necessity to support tobacco growers and obtaining insurance from thegovernment, the necessity of the enforcement of national tobacco control law and planning to decreaseaccess to tobacco by policy makers were the most key points that tobacco growers pointed to them.Conclusion: Our results showed that tobacco growers agreed with the implementation of FCTC butthey worried about their job and the expenses of their daily life. Therefore, it seems that policy makershave to design a plan to support tobacco growers for changing tobacco with a safe cultivate.

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Study the drug adherence and possible factor influencing drug adherence in HIV/AIDS patients in north eastern part of India

. Lalit Prashant Meena; . Shant Kumar Pandey; . Madhukar Rai; . Anju Bharti; . Jaya Chakravarty; . Shyam Sundar

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Background: Majority of HIV/AIDS patients who are on Highly Active Anti Retroviral Therapy(HAART), are not aware about drug adherence and its importance which is the most importantfactor ...  Read More Background: Majority of HIV/AIDS patients who are on Highly Active Anti Retroviral Therapy(HAART), are not aware about drug adherence and its importance which is the most importantfactor for drug adherence. Objectives: To study the level of drug adherence in patients accessingantiretroviral therapy (ART) through the National program and factor influencing drug adherence.Materials and Methods: In present study, we enrolled 102 newly diagnosed patients, amongthem in 79 patients, ART was started. To study the drug adherence a pretested, semistructuredquestionnaire was formed and patients were followed up for 6 months of the study. Pretest andposttest counseling was done to all such patients. Results: A total of 28 patients missed thedose in 1st follow-up, nine patients missed in 2nd follow-up, eight patients missed in 3rd follow-up.Three patients lost follow-up in 2nd follow-up, three patients further lost follow-up in 3rd follow-up.Running out of pills (40.0%), side effect (15.5%), and family problem (13.3%), poor transportfacility for taking drug (8.9%) and forgetfulness (11.1%) are five major causes related to missdose. In females patients, drug adherence (69%) was initially less than male patients (76%) butlatter on female patients (96.3%) had better adherence than males (95.2%). Conclusion: Thisstudy suggest that drug adherence can be increased by proper counseling and close monitoringof the patients which may have a great role in preventing the drug resistance and ART response.

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Is there a digital divide among school students? an exploratory study from Puducherry

. Archana Ramalingam; . Sitanshu Sekhar Kar

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Background: The advent of internet has triggered a growth in provision of more interactivehealth promotion messages, which are likely to enhance the potential for behavior changeespecially ...  Read More Background: The advent of internet has triggered a growth in provision of more interactivehealth promotion messages, which are likely to enhance the potential for behavior changeespecially among children. We intended to find out the determinants and prevalence of useof internet among school students of Puducherry. Materials and Methods: An exploratorystudy was carried out among all the students belonging to the standards VI to IX (n = 421) inthree schools from urban areas and two schools from rural areas of Puducherry. A pretested,self-administered questionnaire which sought information on sociodemographic details (age,gender, standard of education, occupation of father, and type of school), use of internet, andplace of accessing internet, hours of use, and reasons for use was utilized. The statisticalsignificance between the categorical variables was done using chi-square test. All significancetests were two-tailed and statistical significance was defined as a value of P < 0.05. Results:Majority (72.2%) were boys. Less than one-third (23.8%) of the students used internet. Theuse of internet was found to be significantly higher in mid-adolescents (Adjusted OR: 2.205);among boys (Adjusted OR: 3.835) and students from urban areas (Adjusted OR: 4.694).Conclusion: There is a geographical and gender divide observed among the school childrenin the use of internet. Taking the steps to bridging the digital divide will help utilize internet asa media for health promotion.

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Assessment of educational criteria in academic promotion: Perspectives of faculty members of medical sciences universities in Iran

. Mina Tootoonchi; . Nikoo Yamani; . Tahereh Changiz; . Fariba Taleghani; . Zahra Mohammadzadeh

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-6

Abstract

  Introduction: One of the important criteria in the promotion of faculty members is in the scope oftheir educational roles and duties. The purpose of this study was the assessment of ...  Read More Introduction: One of the important criteria in the promotion of faculty members is in the scope oftheir educational roles and duties. The purpose of this study was the assessment of reasonabilityand attainability of educational criteria for scientific rank promotion from the perspective ofthe faculty members of Medical Sciences Universities in Iran. Materials and Methods: Thisdescriptive study was conducted in 2011 in 13 Universities of Medical Sciences in Iran. Throughstratified sampling method, 350 faculty members were recruited. A questionnaire developed bythe researchers was used to investigate the reasonability and attainability of educational criteriawith scores from 1 to 5. The self-administered questionnaire was distributed and collectedat each university. The mean and standard deviation of reasonability and attainability scoreswere calculated and reported by using the SPSS software version 16. Results: Faculty membersconsidered many criteria of educational activities reasonable and available (with a mean scoreof more than 3). The highest reasonability and attainability have been obtained by the quantityand quality of teaching with the mean scores (3.93 ± 1.15 and 3.82 ± 1.17) and (3.9 ± 1.22and 4.13 ± 1.06) out of five, respectively. The mean and standard deviation of total scores ofreasonability of educational activities were 50.91 ± 14.22 and its attainability was 60.3 ± 13.72from the total score of 90. Discussion and Conclusion: The faculty members of the Universities ofMedical Sciences in Iran considered the educational criteria of promotion moderately reasonableand achievable. It is recommended to revise these criteria and adapt them according to the missionand special conditions of medical universities. Furthermore, providing feedback of evaluations,running educational researches, and implementing faculty development programs are suggested.

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Performance improvement through proactive risk assessment: Using failure modes and effects analysis

. Mohammad Hossein Yarmohammadian,; . Tahereh Naseri Boori Abadi; . Shahram Tofighi; . Sekine Saghaeiannejad Esfahani

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-4

Abstract

  Introduction: Cognizance of any error-prone professional activities has a great impact onthe continuity of professional organizations in the competitive atmosphere, particularly inhealth ...  Read More Introduction: Cognizance of any error-prone professional activities has a great impact onthe continuity of professional organizations in the competitive atmosphere, particularly inhealth care industry where every second has critical value in patients’ life saving. Consideringinvaluable functions of medical record department — as legal document and continuityof health care — “failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA)” utilized to identify the waysa process can fail, and how it can be made safer. Materials and Methods: The structuredapproach involved assembling a team of experts, employing a trained facilitator, introducingthe rating scales and process during team orientation and collectively scoring failure modes.The probability of the failure-effect combination was related to the frequency of occurrence,potential severity, and likelihood of detection before causing any harm to the staff or patients.Frequency, severity and detectability were each given a score from 1 to 10. Risk prioritynumbers were calculated. Results: In total 56 failure modes were identified and in subsetsof Medical Record Department including admission unit dividing emergency, outpatient andinpatient classes, statististic, health data organizing and data processing and Medical Codingunits. Although most failure modes were classified as a high risk group, limited resourceswere, as an impediment to implement recommended actions at the same time. Conclusion:Proactive risk assessment methods, such as FMEA enable health care administrators toidentify where and what safeguards are needed to protect against a bad outcome evenwhen an error does occur.

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Experts’ perceptions of the concept of induced demand in healthcare: A qualitative study in Isfahan, Iran

. Mahmoud Keyvanara; . Saeed Karimi; . Elahe Khorasani; . Marzie Jafarian Jazi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  Context: One of the most important subjects in health economics and healthcare managementis the theory of induced demand. There are different views about the concept of induceddemand. ...  Read More Context: One of the most important subjects in health economics and healthcare managementis the theory of induced demand. There are different views about the concept of induceddemand. Extensive texts have been presented on induced demand, however a compatibleconcept has not necessarily been provided for this phenomenon and it has not been definedexplicitly. Aims: The main aim of this article is to understand the concept of induced demandwith the use of experts’ perceptions of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Settings andDesign: The research was done using a qualitative method. Semi-structured interview wasused for data generation. Participants in this study were people who had been informed in thisregard and had to be experienced and were known as experts. Purposive sampling was donefor data saturation. Materials and Methods: Seventeen people were interviewed and criteriasuch as “reliability of information” and “stability” of the data were considered. The anonymityof the interviewees was preserved. Statistical Analysis Used: The data are transcribed,categorized and then the thematic analysis was used. Results: In this study, 21 sub-categoriesand three main categories were derived. Three main subjects were included: Induced demanddefinition, induced demand elements, and induced demand methods. Each of these issuescontained some sub-subjects. Conclusion: The result of this study provides a framework forexamining the concept of induced demand. The most notable findings include the definitionof induced demand, induced demand elements, and method of induced demand. In induceddemand definition, an important issue that is often overlooked is that inducing regarding tothe effectiveness of clinical services and medical values can lead to better or worse outcomesfor patients. These findings help the health policy makers study the phenomenon of induceddemand with clear-sighted approach.

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Use of telemedicine in disaster and remote places

. Sima Ajami; . Parisa Lamoochi

Volume 4, Issue 2 , May 2014, Pages 1-8

Abstract

  One of the methods, especially those living in remote areas or have crashed and does not haveaccess to specialists is telemedicine. Telemedicine describes the use of medical informationexchanged ...  Read More One of the methods, especially those living in remote areas or have crashed and does not haveaccess to specialists is telemedicine. Telemedicine describes the use of medical informationexchanged from one site to another via electronic communications to improve patients’ healthstatus and care. Travel and wait times between the initial consultations with the patient’s owngeneral practitioner and referral to specialist can be reduced and specialists have successfullyprovided remote triage and treatment consults of victims via the robot. The robot provedto be a useful means to extend resources and provide expert consulting if specialists wereunable to physically be at the site. In fact, the telemedicine system is providing health careservices for individuals who are not available because of geographical and environmentalconditions. The aim of this study was to identify telemedicine applications in disaster, andproposed use of this technology in areas where the shortage of specialists in remote areasin disasters. This study was un-systematic (narrative) review. The literature was searchedfor using of telemedicine in disaster and remote places with the help of libraries, conferenceproceedings, data bank, and also search engines available at Google, Google scholar. Inour searches, we employed the following keywords and their combinations: telemedicine,remote place, earthquake, disaster, war, and telecommunication in the searching areas oftitle, keyword, abstract, and full text. In this study, more than 85 articles and reports werecollected and 26 of them were selected based on their relevancy. This literature review helpsdefine the concept of “components and usages of the Telemedicine in disaster” as the newtechnology in the present age.

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