bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex MHC Class I Gene Transcription Profiles and Their Functional Impact in Orangutans
Authors: de Groot Natasja G. , Heijmans Corrine M. C. , van der Wiel Marit K. H. , Blokhuis Jeroen H. , Mulder Arend , Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Doxiadis Gaby G. M. , Claas Frans H. J. , Parham Peter , Bontrop Ronald E.
Published: December 2015

MHC haplotypes of humans and the African great ape species have one copy of the MHC-A, -B, and -C genes. In contrast, MHC haplotypes of orangutans, the Asian great ape species, exhibit variation in the number of gene copies. An in-depth analysis of the MHC class I gene repertoire in the two orangutan species, Pongo abelii and Pongo pygmaeus, is presented in this article. This analysis involved Sanger and next-generation sequencing methodologies, revealing diverse and complicated transcription profiles for orangutan MHC-A, -B, and -C. Thirty-five previously unreported MHC class I alleles are described. The data demonstrate that each orangutan MHC haplotype has one copy of the MHC-A gene, and that the MHC-B region has been subject to duplication, giving rise to at least three MHC-B genes. The MHC-B*03 and -B*08 lineages of alleles each account for a separate MHC-B gene. All MHC-B*08 allotypes have the C1-epitope motif recognized by killer cell Ig-like receptor. At least one other MHC-B gene is present, pointing to MHC-B alleles that are not B*03 or B*08. The MHC-C gene is present only on some haplotypes, and each MHC-C allotype has the C1-epitope. The transcription profiles demonstrate that MHC-A alleles are highly transcribed, whereas MHC-C alleles, when present, are transcribed at very low levels. The MHC-B alleles are transcribed to a variable extent and over a wide range. For those orangutan MHC class I allotypes that are detected by human monoclonal anti-HLA class I Abs, the level of cell-surface expression of proteins correlates with the level of transcription of the allele.
Cutting Edge: Novel Tmem173 Allele Reveals Importance of STING N Terminus in Trafficking and Type I IFN Production
Authors: Surpris Guy , Chan Jennie , Thompson Mikayla , Ilyukha Vladimir , Liu Beiyun C. , Atianand Maninjay , Sharma Shruti , Volkova Tatyana , Smirnova Irina , Fitzgerald Katherine A. , Poltorak Alexander
Published: December 2015

With the stimulator of IFN genes (STING) C terminus being extensively studied, the role of the N-terminal domain (NTD) of STING remains an important subject of investigation. In this article, we identify novel mutations in NTD of Sting of the MOLF strain in response to HSV and Listeria monocytogenes both in vitro and in vivo. These mutations are responsible for low levels of IFN-β caused by failure of MOLF STING to translocate from the endoplasmic reticulum. These data provide evidence that the NTD of STING affects DNA responses via control of trafficking. They also show that the genetic diversity of wild-derived mice resembles the diversity observed in humans. Several human alleles of STING confer attenuated IFN-I production similar to what we observe with the MOLF Sting allele, a crucial functional difference not apparent in classical inbred mice. Thus, understanding the functional significance of polymorphisms in MOLF STING can provide basic mechanistic insights relevant to humans.
Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava: An Overlooked Feature of CHARGE Syndrome?
Authors: Goldenberg Paula , Shikany Amy , Parrott Ashley , Ware Stephanie M. , Hinton Robert B.
Published: December 2015

CHARGE is a well-characterized syndrome (OMIM 2148400) associated with multiple congenital anomalies including cardiovascular malformations. Mutations in CHD7 are the most common cause of CHARGE syndrome. Persistent left superior vena cava (LSVC) has been described in patients with CHARGE syndrome in one study of LSVC associations. A retrospective chart review was conducted for all patients with CHARGE syndrome, diagnosed by Blake criterion features and/or the presence of a pathogenic CHD7 mutation. Echocardio - grams were performed on a clinical basis for all patients and were systematically reviewed and classified. Persistent LSVC was present in 50% of patients with CHARGE syndrome (4/8) and was seen in 3 out of 33 patients seen by cardiovascular genetics with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Persistent LSVC is a common finding in patients with CHARGE syndrome and its presence may increase the index of suspicion in patients with other characteristic congenital anomalies.
Sleep Quality and Depression and Their Association with Other Factors in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Firoz Masomeh Norozi , Shafipour Vida , Jafari Hedayat , Hosseini Seyed Hamzeh , Charati Jamshid Yazdani
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: Sleep disorders and depression, accompanied by reduced quality of life and increased mortality are the most common psychological problems in dialysis patients. This study was conducted with the aim to investigate depression and sleep quality and their association with some demographic and clinical factors in hemodialysis patients.

METHOD: This descriptive-correlative study was conducted on 310 patients undergoing hemodialysis in 8 centers in educational hospitals in Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences. Data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Statistical analysis was conducted using Chi-Square test and regression model.

RESULTS: Results obtained showed 44.8% depression in patients. Significant relationships were found between depression and increased blood phosphorus (P=0.002) and urea (P=0.001). Poor sleep quality was observed in 73.5% of hemodialysis patients, which was found significantly related to aging (P=0.048), female (P=0.04), and reduced frequency of weekly hemodialysis (P=0.035).
CONCLUSION: Depression and poor sleep quality are two common factors in hemodialysis patients, but patients do not overtly show symptoms of these disorders.
Altruism the Essense of the Iranian Nurses’ Job Satisfaction: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Nasrabadi Alireza Nikbakht , Forooshani Zahra Sadat Dibaji , Rafiee Forough
Published: December 2015

Skillful and efficient human resource is one of the most important tools for reaching the organizational targets and it is almost impossible to reach the predetermined goals and success without having skillful human resources. Therefore, having a study on the personnel’s job satisfaction is recommended for all of the organizations. Since the health organizations are among the most important organizations of any country, paying attention to the nurses’ job satisfaction as the main providers of the health care services gets very important. In fact, their attempts guarantee the efficient human resources’ health in the society. Understanding the Iranian nurses’ experiences of their job satisfaction. The present paper studies the implicit and explicit aspects of the clinical nurses’ job satisfaction. The needed information is collected via interviews, and then the participants’ contextual data is analyzed by the qualitative content analysis. The research results introduce the altruism as the foundation for the nurses’ job satisfaction. Altruism is composed of three categories of the patient advocacy, spiritual job satisfaction, and professional commitment. Altruism has made the nurses deliver the required health cares to the patients with all their love, while their profession has many difficulties. Job satisfaction resulted from altruism is experienced as a pleasant feeling along with enjoyment resulted from addressing the needs of a patient who looks forward to the nurse’s advocacy. According to this kind of job satisfaction, the nurse’s professional commitment is to advocate for the patient. Also, the research results show that spirituality is the inseparable component of altruism and it has a vital role in the nurses’ job satisfaction. The spirituality helps the nurses to deliver targeted acts and interventions.
Primary Dysmenorrhea and Menstrual Symptoms in Indian Female Students: Prevalence, Impact and Management
Authors: Omidvar Shabnam , Bakouei Fatemeh , Amiri Fatemeh Nasiri , Begum Khyrunnisa
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: Dysmenorrhea is the most common gynecological problem among females and it is defined as cramping pain in the lower abdomen occurring just before or during menstruation. Menstrual symptoms are a broad collection of affective and somatic concerns that occur around the time of menses. The effect and importance of dysmenorrhea is very wide, therefore managing the problem is important.

OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the prevalence, and impact of primary dysmenorrhea in student girls and their management behaviors.

METHODS & MATERIALS: A Cross-sectional study was conducted on 1000 healthy females aged 11-28 years. Standardized Self-reporting questionnaires were used to obtain relevant data. Pain intensity was assessed by using the Numerical Pain Scale (NPS). Data was analyzed by SPSS version 16.

RESULTS: Prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 70.2%. Majority of the subjects experienced pain for one or 1-2 days during menstruation. 23.2% of the dysmenorrheic girls experienced pain for 2-3 days. The most common symptom in both dysmenorrheic and non dysmenorrheic girls during the menstrual periods was tiredness and second most prevalent symptom was back pain.

Females experiencing mild pain on an average absented for one and half day a month while 2.1±1.2 and 2.5±1.3 days for those who experienced moderate and severe forms of dysmenorrhea respectively. A small proportion of girls sought pharmacological management (25.5%) and 83.2% depended on non-pharmacological methods. Only 14.2% had sought medical advice.

CONCLUSION: Sub optimal use of the medical advice and the barriers to seek medical attention by dysmenorrheic females need exploration. It is important that health education on puberty and menstruation is regarded as inadequate for many girls in India.
The Effect of Loneliness on Social Networking Sites Use and Its Related Behaviors
Authors: Ranaeiy Samira , Taghavi Mohammad Reza , Goodarzi Mohammad Ali
Published: December 2015

INTRODUCTION: The current research was conducted to examine the effect of “Loneliness”, on time spent in Social Networking Sites (S.N.S), main reasons for S.N.S use, and its related behaviors.

MATERIALS & METHODS: 156 students of Shiraz University voluntarily participated in this research. Loneliness was assessed usingthe UCLA Loneliness scale. 25% of highest scoring students reported that they were lonely whereas 25% of the lowest scoring students were considered to be non-lonely. The positive and negative reasons of using S.N.S were assessed based on Reasons for Internet Use Scale, and internet behaviors were assessed based on Scale of Internet Behaviors.

RESULTS: There was no difference in time spent in S.N.S as well as the positive and negative reasons of using S.N.S (contrary to literature), but internet behaviors showed a significant difference between “lonely” and “non-lonely” individuals. “Lonely” and “non-lonely” individuals showed a significant difference in “social aspect” of S.N.S behaviors. There was also a significant difference between “Lonely” and “non-Lonely” individuals in “Negative impact” of S.N.S behaviors. Yet, there seemed to be no difference in “competency and convenience aspect” of S.N.S behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggested that there is no difference between lonely and non-lonely individuals in reasons for using S.N.S and time spent in S.N.S. This finding stands contrary to previous research findings and general literature on the subject In other words, what drives people to S.N.S at the first place shows no significant difference between lonely and non-lonely individuals while after attending S.N.S, social behavior of lonely individuals shows a significant difference which is consistently enhanced online. Lonely people also significantly develop internet-related problems in their daily functioning, including interference with real life socializing.
Relation between Lifestyle and Socio-Demographic Factors and Body Composition among the Elderly
Authors: Zeinali Fahime , Habibi Nahal , Samadi Mehnoosh , Azam Kamal , Djafarian Kurosh
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: Aging is accompanied by various changes that can cause changes in diet and body composition resulting sometimes in malnutrition and disability in the elderly. Changes in body composition among the elderly are mainly the result of physical inactivity and nutrition. This study was designed to examine the relationship between lifestyle and socio-demographic factors and body composition.

METHOD: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 380 elderly people aged 60 and over in district 5 of Tehran, Iran. Their body composition was measured by Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis and the Actigraph device was used for assessing physical activity patterns. A three-day food recall was conducted to measure their intake of energy and macronutrients. Lifestyle and socio-demographic information were collected by interview using a pretested questionnaire.

RESULTS: Overweight, obesity and central obesity were more prevalent in women than in men (p<0.001). Moreover, 57.1% and 18.7% of participants had high and very high fat mass index, respectively. High fat mass index was seen in 47% of men and 37.5% of women who had normal body mass index (BMI). Meanwhile, age, gender, physical activity, energy intake, the percentage of energy from fat and protein, educational level, job, television watching time, smoking, chronic diseases, and taking medicine were significantly associated with anthropometric measurements (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Overweight, obesity and high body fat percentage were common among the aged. Considering the factors that are significantly associated with body composition, programs that can increase their awareness about the dietary balance and suitable physical activity should be organized to address these problems.
Application of the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) Fingerprinting to Analyze Genetic Variation in Community Associated-Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA) Isolates in Iran
Authors: Mobasherizadeh Sina , Shojaei Hasan , Havaei Seyed Asghar , Mostafavizadeh Kamyar , Davoodabadi Fazollah , Khorvash Farzin , Ataei Behrooz , Daei-Naser Abbas
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study was to apply RAPD technique to analyze the genetic variability among the Iranian CA-MRSA isolates.

The RAPD amplification was implemented on 25 strains isolated from the anterior nares of 410 healthy children using four randomly selected oligonucleotide primers from the stocks available in our laboratory, including the primers 1254, GE6, OLP6 and OLP13 from our stock. The amplified PCR products were detected on a 1.5% agarose gel and subjected to further analysis to establish the band profiles and genetic relationships using the Gel Compar® program.

The Iranian CA-MRSA isolates produced distinct RAPD patterns which varied based on the primer used, however, the primer 1254 revealed highly polymorphic patterns consisting 5 discernable RAPD types (RT), “RT1” (12, 48%), “RT2” (8, 32%), “RT3” (3, 12%), and “RT4 and RT5”, (a single RAPD type each, 4%). Phylogenetic analysis based on RAPD profiles divided most of the CA-MRSA isolates into 2 distinct but related RAPD clusters, a small group and two single unrelated RAPD types.

This study shows that the simple and cost-effective but rather difficult to optimize RAPD fingerprinting could be used to evaluate genetic and epidemiological relationships of CA-MRSA isolates on condition that the patterns are obtained from carefully optimized laboratory tests.
Living with Diabetes: Experiences of Inner and Outer Sources of Beliefs in Women with Low Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Boonsatean Wimonrut , Carlsson Anna , Östman Margareta , Rosner Irena Dychawy
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the life experiences of nineteen Thai women of low socioeconomic status who were living with type 2 diabetes. A qualitative research design was conducted, and the women were identified by the snowball technique. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, and processes of induction and abstraction were used for data analysis. The theme “keeping equilibrium of one’s mind” involved two sub-themes: experiencing an unpredictable future and being empowered by emerged beliefs. The first sub-theme encompassed worries concerning health and fears of being a burden to one’s family. The second sub-theme comprised the experiences of continuing life without being conquered by the disease and believing in the natural law described in Buddhist teachings. These findings revealed that participants could maintain a balance among their concerns through empowerment by inner and outer sources of beliefs, particularly in Buddhist teachings. Despite the vulnerable situations caused by diabetes and low socioeconomic status, the women remained calm, with a consciousness to continue their lives with the disease. The Buddhist views on life, specifically natural law, assisted them to consider life with diabetes as simply a natural course. Buddhism served as a spiritual refuge and helped the women to cope with their psychological burden from diabetes. These findings may reflect the need for health care professionals to provide more holistic care that would assist patients to live with their disease. Buddhist beliefs can be used as a tool to assist Thai patients to empower themselves successfully.
Isokinetic and Electromyographic Properties of Muscular Endurance in Short and Long-Term Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hatef Boshra , Ghanjal Ali , Meftahi Gholam Hossein , Askary-Ashtiani Ahmadreza
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are subject to progressive reduction of muscle mass and strength. The aim of this study was to assess muscle forces and electromyography (EMG) indices in short and long-term diabetes during an isokinetic exercise.

METHODS: The peak torque, work, mean power frequency (MPF) and root mean square (RMS) of knee flexors and extensors during 40 isokinetic knee extension-flexion repetitions with a velocity of 150 degree/s were recorded. 18 patients with less than 10 years with T2DM and 12 patients with equal and more than 10 years of disease were compared with 20 gender, body mass index, physical activity and peripheral circulation matched healthy controls.

RESULTS: The fatigue index and slope of line across the peak torque values of the knee flexor indicate that patients with long-term T2DM were significantly more resistant to fatigue in comparison with the two other groups (p<0.009). Whereas the MPF decrease during isokinetic protocol interact with grouping in the medial hamstring (p<0.042), but it was independent to groups in other muscles (p<0.0001). The increase of RMS after fatigue protocol interacted with sex for the medial hamstring and vastus lateralis (p<0.039) and interacted with group for the extensor muscles (p<0.045).

DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: It seems that long-term T2DM cause some neuromuscular adaptations to maintain knee flexor muscle performance during functional activity especially postural control.
Investigating the Causes of Medication Errors and Strategies to Prevention of Them from Nurses and Nursing Student Viewpoint
Authors: Gorgich Enam Alhagh Charkhat , Barfroshan Sanam , Ghoreishi Gholamreza , Yaghoobi Maryam
Published: December 2015

INTRODUCTION & AIM: Medication errors as a serious problem in world and one of the most common medical errors that threaten patient safety and may lead to even death of them. The purpose of this study was to investigate the causes of medication errors and strategies to prevention of them from nurses and nursing student viewpoint.

MATERIALS & METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 327 nursing staff of khatam-al-anbia hospital and 62 intern nursing students in nursing and midwifery school of Zahedan, Iran, enrolled through the availability sampling in 2015. The data were collected by the valid and reliable questionnaire. To analyze the data, descriptive statistics, T-test and ANOVA were applied by use of SPSS16 software.

FINDINGS: The results showed that the most common causes of medications errors in nursing were tiredness due increased workload (97.8%), and in nursing students were drug calculation, (77.4%). The most important way for prevention in nurses and nursing student opinion, was reducing the work pressure by increasing the personnel, proportional to the number and condition of patients and also creating a unit as medication calculation. Also there was a significant relationship between the type of ward and the mean of medication errors in two groups.

CONCLUSION: Based on the results it is recommended that nurse-managers resolve the human resources problem, provide workshops and in-service education about preparing medications, side-effects of drugs and pharmacological knowledge. Using electronic medications cards is a measure which reduces medications errors.
The Importance of Medication Errors Reporting in Improving the Quality of Clinical Care Services
Authors: Elden Nesreen Mohamed Kamal , Ismail Amira
Published: December 2015

INTRODUCTION: Medication errors have significant implications on patient safety. Error detection through an active management and effective reporting system discloses medication errors and encourages safe practices.

OBJECTIVES: To improve patient safety through determining and reducing the major causes of medication errors (MEs), after applying tailored preventive strategies.

METHODOLOGY: A pre-test, post-test study was conducted on all inpatients at a 177 bed hospital where all medication procedures in each ward were monitored by a clinical pharmacist. The patient files were reviewed, as well. Error reports were submitted to a hospital multidisciplinary committee to identify major causes of errors. Accordingly, corrective interventions that consisted of targeted training programs for nurses and physicians were conducted.

RESULTS: Medication errors were higher during ordering/prescription stage (38.1%), followed by administration phase (20.9%). About 45% of errors reached the patients: 43.5% were harmless and 1.4% harmful. 7.7% were potential errors and more than 47% could be prevented. After the intervention, error rates decreased from (6.7%) to (3.6%) (P≤0.001).

CONCLUSION: The role of a ward based clinical pharmacist with a hospital multidisciplinary committee was effective in recognizing, designing and implementing tailored interventions for reduction of medication errors. A systematic approach is urgently needed to decrease organizational susceptibility to errors, through providing required resources to monitor, analyze and implement effective interventions.
Factors Affecting Hemodialysis Adequacy in Cohort of Iranian Patient with End Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Shahdadi Hosein , Balouchi Abbas , Sepehri Zahra , Rafiemanesh Hosein , Magbri Awad , Keikhaie Fereshteh , Shahakzehi Ahmad , Sarjou Azizullah Arbabi
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: There are many factors that can affect dialysis adequacy; such as the type of vascular access, filter type, device used, and the dose, and rout of erythropoietin stimulation agents (ESA) used. The aim of this study was investigating factors affecting Hemodialysis adequacy in cohort of Iranian patient with end stage renal disease (ESRD).

METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study conducted on 133 Hemodialysis patients referred to two dialysis units in Sistan-Baluchistan province in the cities of Zabol and Iranshahr, Iran. We have looked at, (the effects of the type of vascular access, the filter type, the device used, and the dose, route of delivery, and the type of ESA used) on Hemodialysis adequacy. Dialysis adequacy was calculated using kt/v formula, two-part information questionnaire including demographic data which also including access type, filter type, device used for hemodialysis (HD), type of Eprex injection, route of administration, blood groups and hemoglobin response to ESA were utilized. The data was analyzed using the SPSS v16 statistical software. Descriptive statistical methods, Mann-Whitney statistical test, and multiple regressions were used when applicable.

RESULTS: The range of calculated dialysis adequacy is 0.28 to 2.39 (units of adequacy of dialysis). 76.7% of patients are being dialyzed via AVF and 23.3% of patients used central venous catheters (CVC). There was no statistical significant difference between dialysis adequacy, vascular access type, device used for HD (Fresenius and B. Braun), and the filter used for HD (p> 0.05). However, a significant difference was observed between the adequacy of dialysis and Eprex injection and patients' time of dialysis (p <0.05).

CONCLUSION: Subcutaneous ESA (Eprex) injection and dialysis shift (being dialyzed in the morning) can have positive impact on dialysis adequacy. Patients should be educated on the facts that the type of device used for HD and the vascular access used has no significant effects on dialysis adequacy.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of Nurses toward Hand Hygiene in Hospitals
Authors: Sharif Alireza , Arbabisarjou Azizollah , Balouchi Abbas , Ahmadidarrehsima Sudabeh , Kashani Hamed Haddad
Published: December 2015

INTRODUCTION: The proper hand hygiene is one of the foremost techniques to reduce Nosocomial infections. The hand hygiene is deemed as the simplest method for control of Nosocomial infections if it is done properly it may prevent from a lot of costs and fatalities. Due to constant relationship with patients, nurses play paramount role in proper execution of hand hygiene among clinical personnel. The current study was carried out in order to analyze knowledge, attitude, and performance of nurses regarding hand hygiene.

MATERIALS & METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 (of 240) nurses from three hospitals in Kerman city at east of Iran in 2015. The standardized questionnaire was the tool for data collection. These data entered in SPSS (V.22). The frequency and percentage of frequency in descriptive statistics was employed for data analysis. The confidence interval was considered as 95%.

RESULTS: The results showed that the majority of participants were male173 (86.5%), had BA degree 161 (80.5%) and were married 155 (70.5%). Most of nurses 77 (38.5%) had working experience (5-10years). The majority of nurses had good knowledge 149 (74.5%), positive attitude 141 (70.5%) and good performance 175 (87.5%).

DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: The nurses are good level in terms of knowledge, attitude, and performance but improvement of their knowledge and knowledge seems to be more necessary by holding educational classes and courses in cases where they have less knowledge. 
Status of Hearing Loss and Its Related Factors among Drivers in Zahedan, South-Eastern Iran
Authors: Ansari Hossein , Ansari-Moghaddam Alireza , Mohammadi Mahdi , Tabatabaei Sayed Mehdi , Fazli Babak , Pishevare-Mofrad Mohammadreza
Published: December 2015

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate loss of hearing among drivers in Zahedan, southeastern Iran.

PATIENTS & METHODS: This study carried out on a total of 1836 drivers in Zahedan in 2013. Loss of hearing in both ears was measured at 250, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hertz. The demographic variables, blood parameter and anthropometric data were recorded through interview and examinations. Data were analyzed in Stata.12 software using paired t-tests, McNemar test and Multiple Logistic Regression.

RESULTS: The mean age was 38.2±9.8 years. The highest mean hearing thresholds in the right and left ears were 25.7±9.1 and 27.7±9.1, respectively at 250 Hz. There was significant difference between left and right ears hearing threshold at all frequencies (P<0.001), and the highest difference occurred at 250 Hz. Hearing threshold in the left ear was greater than in the right ear at all frequencies. Hearing threshold was correlated to marital status, type of license, and vehicle, smoking, age, and driving history at all frequencies (P<0.01), and also significantly correlated to blood sugar and cholesterol levels at 250 and 500 Hz in both left and right ears (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, high levels of noise increase hearing threshold with greatest damage to the left ear. Therefore, drivers should be periodically examined for ear damage in accordance to variables affecting loss of hearing. Moreover, drivers must be educated about usage of appropriate ear-plugs during driving, especially for the left ear.
Cognitive Vulnerability in Patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Dysthymic Disorder and Normal Individuals
Authors: Al-Ghorabaie Fateme Moin , Noferesti Azam , Fadaee Mahdi , Ganji Nima
Published: December 2015

AIM: The purpose of this study was to assess cognitive vulnerability and response style in clinical and normal individuals.

METHOD: A sample of 90 individuals was selected for each of the 3 groups of Generalized Anxiety disorder, Dysthymic disorder and normal individuals. They completed MCQ and RSQ.

RESULTS: Results analyzed by MANOVA and post hoc showed significant differences among groups. Dysthymic group and GAD reported higher scores on cognitive confidence compared to the normal group. Individuals with GAD showed highly negative beliefs about need to control thought, compared to the other groups, but in cognitive self-consciousness they have no differences with the normal group. In regard to uncontrollability, danger and positive beliefs, GAD group had higher levels than the other groups. Although normal and GAD group didn’t show any significant differences in response style, there was a significant difference between Dysthymic group and other groups in all response styles.
DISCUSSION: Beliefs and meta-cognitive strategies can be distinguished between clinical and non clinical individuals. Also, findings support the Self-Regulatory Executive Function model. ary committee was effective in recognizing, designing and implementing tailored interventions for reduction of medication errors. A systematic approach is urgently needed to decrease organizational susceptibility to errors, through providing required resources to monitor, analyze and implement effective interventions.
 
An Analysis of the Structural Factors Affecting the Public Participation in Health Promotion
Authors: Ghaumi Raheleh , Aminee Tayebe , Aminaee Akram , Dastoury Mojgan
Published: December 2015

The present study focuses on analyzing national and international Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) studies published from 2000 to 2010 in order to identify and categorize the possible factors that affect social participation for improving the public health. Clearly, improving the public health necessitates a combination of the participation and responsibility by the social members and the attempts by public health policy-makers and planners. CBPR studies are selected as the corpus since they seek to encourage active and informed participation of the social members in fulfilling the health related goals. The present study is conducted through meta-synthesis within a qualitative framework. The results revealed a set of factors within the structural capacities which were employed by the CBPR researchers for achieving the health promotion goals. The structural capacities employed in the interventions could be considered on the cultural and social grounds. The cultural grounds were divided into scientific and religious attempts. For the scientific attempts, the results highlighted the participation of higher education institutes including universities and research centers as well as educational institutes such as schools and the relevant institutions. And regarding the religious attempts, the results indicated that the cooptation of religious centers played the greatest role in enhancing the public participation.
The Awareness of External Auditors and the Management of Kuwaiti Listed Companies on Determinants of Audit Fees: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Alanezi Faisal , Alfraih Mishari
Published: December 2015

This paper explored the factors that influence audit fees determinants in the Kuwait audit market. A questionnaire was distributed to a number of audit firms operating in the Kuwaiti market and Kuwaiti companies listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE). The results indicated that all factors show a Likert-scale score of greater than 2.5, suggesting that all the factors included in the questionnaire influence the audit fee determinants. Among the 25 factors included in this study, audit firm brand name, time spent completing a given job and auditors experience were the most important factors influencing audit fees determinants in the Kuwait audit market from audit firm and companies perspective. In contrast, company age, client company location and audit firm location were the least important factors influencing the determinants of audit fee in Kuwait from audit firm and companies perspectives. The results of the t-test revealed that there are significant differences in the mean ranking of some of the factors assumed to determinant the audit fee in Kuwait audit market between the two groups of respondents (audit firms and companies). The findings presented in this study may help professional accounting associations and both audit firms and companies to better understand the factors influencing audit fee determinants in Kuwait audit market.
The Research of Customers Satisfaction and Public Policy & Marketing Design in Special Interest Tourism—Macao Culinary Tourism
Authors: Wang Xin , Meng Ting
Published: December 2015

Start from the development of domestic and foreign fine good, the basic principles and practice from government policy program and formulation, as well as interviews with experts and surveys for the tourists based on physical truth of the Macao culinary tourism development, we did research for the customers satisfaction of Macao culinary tourists and designed strategies and concrete measures of the public policy & marketing. The paper will present policy action suggestions via measure the relationship of government public marketing and customers satisfaction of food tourists through factor analysis from multiple regression analysis.   
The research believes regional tourism as a quasi-public product, public department plays significant role in its marketing practice. To design the public marketing strategies based on integration of government organizations, tourism industry and civil society groups will offer more comprehensive marketing capacity of private organizations, citizens and other stakeholders. It will very helpful to promote the overall value of Macao tourism, boost regional welfare and sustainable development in tourism industry.
Impulse Buying Behaviour of Generation Y in Fashion Retail
Authors: Khan Nasreen , Hui Hui Lai , Booi Chen Tan , Yong Hoe Hong
Published: December 2015

Since the past two decades, Generation Y consumers have become global marketers’ interest due to their spending power and high likely to engage in impulse buying behaviour. Very little research investigates the impulse buying behaviour of Generation Y and existing research do not look into the possible factors of impulse buying behaviour as an integrative approach. The main objective of the research is to integrate all the possible factors with its dimensions and examine its simultaneous relationship with impulse buying behaviour. A survey questionnaire was administered to convenient sample of 250 Generation Y consumers of fashion apparel. The results show that demographic factor (gender) has the strongest impact on impulse buying behaviour, followed by situational and personal factors. Interesting finding is that demographic factor (income); situational factor (social influence) and personal factor (extraversion) do not stimulate impulse buying behaviour of Generation Y.  These findings may enable global marketers to develop an effective market segmentation strategy.
Applying Electronic Customer Processes to Electronic Customer Retention (Field Study in Jordanian Telecommunication Sector)
Authors: Allozi Abdelwahhab , Alryalat Haroun , Hadi Wa'el
Published: December 2015

Electronic Knowledge Repository in electronic customer relationship management (eCRM) is an important topic for improving Electronic Customer Retention. Also, In spite of several previous studies of eCRM, none has adequately examined the influences of Electronic Customer Processes and Electronic Knowledge Repository on Electronic Customer Retention. For this reason, the relationships among (Electronic Customer Analysis, Electronic Customer Attraction, and Electronic Customer Acquisition) mediating by Electronic Knowledge Repository to improve Electronic Customer Retention are tested, based on a PLS analysis with 218 survey sample from three Jordanian telecommunication sector. This paper has significant Practical implications of these findings beneficial to our understanding of eCRM process in the Electronic Customer Retention for organization in Jordanian telecommunication sector.
The Role of Accounting in Colleges Increase the Credibility of Future Accountants
Authors: Lasiyono Untung , Istikhoroh Siti
Published: December 2015

This research aims to improve public confidence in the credibility of accountants. The involvement of professional accountants in some cases financial reporting proved to be detrimental to the public at large and potentially reduce the credibility of accountants. To prevent the recurrence of similar cases in the future, then the preventive efforts should be made early on that in college because of accounting students are candidates for professional accountants in the future. Accounting colleges need to improve the structure of the curriculum by providing more servings to the problem of moral ethics.

The study was conducted on two groups of respondents, academics (students and professors of accounting), as well as practitioners (public accountants and management accountants) in East Java. Data is primary, obtained through questionnaires, analyzed using a technique independent sample T-test and Regression Analysis.
The study concluded that academics perceive the credibility of accountants better than the practitioners. In deciding the accounting policies, academics more moral scenarios taking into account the magnitude of the consequences and social consensus. Meanwhile, practitioners tend to take advantage of the flexibility of financial reporting as a loophole to gain managerial. Understanding of the professional code of ethics is creative accounting practices and good corporate governance principles proven to affect the credibility of the accountant.
Weak Form Efficiency of the Amman Stock Exchange: An Empirical Analysis (2000-2013)
Authors: N. Ananzeh Izz eddien
Published: December 2015

The Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH) has been a lot of debates in the literature of finance because of its important implication, and there is no clear-cut case regarding the efficiency of the financial markets for both developed and emerging markets. This empirical study conducted to examine EMH at the weak form level of Amman stock Exchange (ASE) by using daily observations for the period span from 2000 to 2013. Recent econometric procedures utilized for testing the randomness of stock prices for ASE. The results of serial correlation reject the existence of random walks in daily returns of the ASE, and the unit root tests also conclude the return series of ASE are stationary and inefficient at the weak-level. Also the runs tests verify that the stock returns series on ASE are not random, and our final conclusion reports that the ASE is inefficient at the weak form level. 
Differences among Different DGBLs Learners
Authors: Lin Yu-Ling
Published: December 2015

Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL) not only offers ideal learning results but also encourages students to be proactive in their learning. In this research, DGBL and Means-end Chains have been chosen as the theoretical basis for the study. The study took a look at the discrepancies in value between students of different majors and competition participation experiences. Business and Management major students felt that Virtual chips could Reduce pressure and accountability and in addition to allowing them to gradually Accumulate investment experience and Reduce the error rate, it would give them more opportunities to Practice for financial planning. In contrast, students who major in Finance emphasized the consequences of Practice for financial planning from the attribute of Diverse investment tools for virtual trading and Enhanced team learning through Team work. With regards to competition experience, students with competition experience preferred to achieve the learning consequences of Increased practical experience and Accumulated investment experience through the Digital learning function and Virtual platform and they achieved the terminal value of Sense of security through Reducing the error rate. For students with no prior competition experience, they expected to gain opportunities for Practice for financial planning through virtual trading games with Diverse investment tools in order to pursue the terminal values of Sense of achievement and Fun and enjoyment of life.
The Inter-Firm Value Effect in the Qatar Stock Market: 2005-2014
Authors: Gharaibeh Omar
Published: December 2015

This paper examines whether there is evidence of an inter-firm value in the returns of Qatar firms. The long-term return contrarian and book-to-market strategies are approaches commonly used to test for value effect. This study documents statistically significant abnormal profits of an inter-firm value effect with two measures. The long-term return contrarian and BE/ME strategies provide significant abnormal raw returns of 1.17% and 1.64% per month, respectively. Although each of the value strategies earns significant unadjusted profits, these profits can be explained by the Fama-French three-factor model.
Selection Factors of Market Segments and Porter’s Generic Marketing Strategies: Evidence from an Emerging GCC Market
Authors: Lotayif Mansour S. M.
Published: December 2015

The current study aims at both identifying the detailed variables behind selecting the appropriate market segment(s) and the selection of the three generic marketing strategies i.e. differentiation, focus and cost leadership. The experiences of 177 Bahraini executives working for domestic and multi-national corporations (MNCs) were utilized to achieve these objectives. Via SPSS version 21 and throughout multivariate analytical technique (e.g. multiple regression), factor analysis, and descriptive analysis the current study’s three objectives and four hypotheses were tested. Based on factor analysis, the target market selection variables are loaded on four factors as proposed by Hooley and Saunders (1993). However, the title of the fourth variable becomes “regulatory, political, and environmental” instead of only “environmental factor” as in Hooley and Saunders (1993) did name in their own study. Based on Multiple Regression (MR) results, there is no significant causality relationship between demographics (i.e. type of business, ownership, experience, and size) and market factor. Meanwhile, significant causality relationships were existed between; demographics and “economic and technological factor”; demographics and “competitive factor”; and between demographics and “regulatory, political, and environmental factor”. Finally, the variables for selecting each generic strategy have been determined.
Alliance Process: A Micro Behavioral View
Authors: Kumar Rajesh
Published: December 2015

Alliances are subject to heightened instability and while process based explanations are attracting increasing attention (e.g., Ring & Van De Ven, 1994), process based theorizing continues to remain an emergent field of study. In this paper I articulate a process based perspective of alliance instability that is rooted in the motivational orientation of the alliance boundary spanners (Das & Kumar, 2011). The process based perspective exemplifies the micro behavioral view which highlights the importance of individual’s cognitions and actions in shaping alliance outcomes. The paper explicates the linkages between the alliance boundary spanners motivational orientation, the alliance discrepancy model, and legitimacy repair strategies. I postulate that alliance boundary spanners may possess either a promotion focused or a prevention focused self-regulatory system. Alliance boundary spanners with a promotion focus are geared towards maximizing positive outcomes whereas alliance boundary spanners with a prevention focused self-regulatory system are geared towards minimizing negative outcomes. Alliance partners with a promotion focused self-regulatory system will detect outcome discrepancies sooner whereas alliance partners with a prevention focused self-regulatory system will detect process discrepancies sooner. Unfavorable outcome discrepancies are associated with a crisis of pragmatic legitimacy whereas unfavorable process discrepancies are associated with a crisis of moral legitimacy. I discuss the alternative ways in which alliance partners can seek to repair legitimacy. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Relationship between Customer Satisfaction and Customer Loyalty in the Retail Banking Sector of Ghana
Authors: Tweneboah-Koduah Ernest , Yuty Duweh Farley Augustine
Published: December 2015

As competition intensifies in the Ghanaian retail banking sector, understanding the antecedents of customer loyalty is critical for effective design and implementation of loyalty programs to ensure customer loyalty and retention. The objective of this study is to examine relationship between the dimensions of customer satisfaction and customer loyalty, as well as the effects of socio-economic variables on customer loyalty in the retail banking sector of Ghana. Data were collected using questionnaire administered through personal interviews to 160 customers of retail banks in Ghana. Multiple regression, analysis of variance and one-sample t-test statistical methods were employed to examine the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The study found assurance (knowledge and courtesy of employees and their ability to inspire trust and confidence) to be a significant driver of customer loyalty. The study also found a significant difference between age groups and customer loyalty. The study recommends that relationship managers give special consideration to such variables as Assurance and ‘Age groups’ when formulating strategies for developing customer loyalty in the retail banking sector of Ghana.
Organizational Strategies to Manage Expatriate Worries about Pollution Levels in Megacities
Authors: Jørgensen Rikke Bramming , Kjellen Urban , Moen Øystein
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how a large European infrastructure developer responded to expatriate worries about high outdoor pollution levels in the Indian megacity Delhi. We present an exploratory case study obtained from a three months project with close university/company interaction, both with the head office in Oslo Norway and the Delhi office. Fact assessment showed that pollution levels are high and rising, with significant expected increase in asthma, cardiac diseases and mortality in the winter months. The results show that the employees compare home office environment with the Delhi office, and compare the company actions plans with other companies’ problem solving initiatives. Cost considerations were not important in the development of the response plan but in the implementation phase (specific decisions) and the results further shows that the characteristics of the internal process are important. We present a company response plan to a real-life situation, and this plan could be used by other companies as well. From the company perspective, the paper points towards a challenging issue of similar or dissimilar handling of local employees versus expatriates. Destination characteristics such as air pollution have attained limited focus in expatriate research, and a major contribution of this paper is to present facts and possible solutions as well as comments on future research needs.