bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When European meets African honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) in the tropics: Morphological changes related to genetics in Mauritius Island (South-West Indian Ocean)
Authors: Galataud Julien , Delatte Hélène , Techer Maéva Angélique , Simiand Christophe , Sookar Preeaduth , Reynaud Bernard , Clémencet Johanna
Published: November 2020

The previous genetic characterization of the honeybee population of Mauritius Island (Indian Ocean) revealed an ongoing process of hybridization between the first established African subspeciesApis mellifera unicolorand recently imported European subspecies (A.m.ligustica,A.m.carnicaandA.m.mellifera). This context offers the rare opportunity to explore the influence of hybridization between African and European honeybees on phenotypic traits out of the case largely studied of the Africanized honeybee (hybrid betweenA.m.scutellatafrom South Africa and European subspecies). We thus conducted geometric morphometric analyses on forewings of 283 workers genetically characterized at 14 microsatellite loci to evaluate (1) if the morphological variability coincides well with the neutral genetic variability, (2) if hybrids exhibited rather parental, intermediate or transgressive traits, and (3) to test if fluctuating asymmetry (FA) of size and shape, as a measure of developmental stability, was elevated in hybrids (due to genetic stress) and/or European bees (due to unsuitable environment) compared to African bees. A strong concordance was found between morphological variability and neutral genetic variability, especially for wing shape, based on partial least-square analyses (PLS). However, on average, the morphology of hybrids was more similar to the African bees, potentially reflecting the dynamics and direction of introgression. Significant FA for wing size as well as wing shape was detected, suggesting the overall presence of stress during the development of the studied individuals. In contrast, the asymmetry levels do not differ according to the ancestry (African, European or hybrid) of the individuals. Therefore, if ongoing hybridization contributed to increasing the genetic and phenotypic diversity of the populations and influences its adaptive potential, developmental stressors could not be identified and their evolutionary consequences remain uncertain.
Mycobiome changes in the vitreous of post fever retinitis patients
Authors: Arunasri Kotakonda , Mahesh Malleswarapu , Sai Prashanthi Gumpili , Jayasudha Rajagopalaboopathi , Kalyana Chakravarthy Sama , Tyagi Mudit , Pappuru Rajeev R. , Shivaji Sisinthy
Published: November 2020

Fungi have been associated with various diseases of the eye like keratitis, uveitis and endophthalmitis. Despite this fact, fungal microbiome (mycobiome) studies compared to the bacterial microbiome studies have remained neglected. In the present study, using metagenomic sequencing, the mycobiomes of the vitreous of healthy control individuals (VC, n = 15) and individuals with post fever retinitis + non-PFR uveitis (PFR+, n = 9) were analysed and compared. The results indicated thatAscomycotawas the most predominant phylum in both VC and PFR+ groups. Further, at the genera level it was observed that the abundance of 17 fungal genera were significantly different in post fever retinitis (PFR, n = 6) group compared to control group. Of these 17 genera, it was observed that 14 genera were relatively more abundant in PFR group and the remaining 3 genera in the VC group. GenusSaccharomyces, a commensal of the gut and skin, was predominantly present in the vitreous of both the cohorts, however it was significantly less abundant in PFR group. Further, significant increase in the genera that have a pathogenic interaction with the host were observed in PFR group. On the whole the mycobiome in both the groups differed significantly and formed two distinct clusters in the heatmap and Principal co-ordinate analysis. These results demonstrate significant changes in the mycobiome from the vitreous of post fever retinitis patients compared to healthy controls thus implying that dysbiotic changes in the fungal vitreous microbiome are associated with PFR.
An agent based model representation to assess resilience and efficiency of food supply chains
Authors: Van Voorn George , Hengeveld Geerten , Verhagen Jan
Published: November 2020

Trying to meet the Sustainable Development Goals is challenging. Food supply chains may have to become more efficient to meet the increasing food requirement of 10 Billion people by 2050. At the same time, food and nutrition security are at risk from increasingly likely shocks like extreme climate events, market shocks, pandemics, changing consumer preferences, and price volatility. Here we consider some possibilities and limitations regarding the improvement of resilience (the capacity to deal with shocks) and efficiency (here interpreted as the share of produced food delivered to consumers) of food supply chains. We employ an Agent Based Model of a generic food chain network consisting of stylized individuals representing producers, traders, and consumers. We do this: 1/ to describe the dynamically changing disaggregated flows of crop items between these agents, and 2/ to be able to explicitly consider agent behaviour. The agents have implicit personal objectives for trading. We quantify resilience and efficiency by linking these to the fraction of fulfilment of the overall explicit objective to have all consumers meet their food requirement. We consider different types of network structures in combination with different agent interaction types under different types of stylized shocks. We find that generally the network structures with higher efficiency are also more sensitive to shocks, while less efficient network types display more resilience. At first glance these results seem to confirm the existence of a system-level trade-off between resilience and efficiency similar to what is reported in business management and ecology literature. However, the results are modified by the trading interactions and the type of shock. In our simulations resilience and efficiency are affected by ‘soft’ boundaries caused by the preference and trust of agents (i.e., social aspects) in trading. The ability of agents to switch between trading partners represents an important aspect of resilience, namely a capacity to reorganize. These insights may be relevant when considering the reorganization of real-life food chains to increase their resilience to meet future food and nutrition security goals.
Statin adherence is lower in primary than secondary prevention: A national follow-up study of new users
Authors: Sigglekow Finn , Horsburgh Simon , Parkin Lianne
Published: November 2020

Background

Maintaining adherence to statins reduces the risk of an initial cardiovascular disease (CVD) event in high-risk individuals (primary prevention) and additional CVD events following the first event (secondary prevention). The effectiveness of statin therapy is limited by the level of adherence maintained by the patient. We undertook a nationwide study to compare adherence and discontinuation in primary and secondary prevention patients.

Methods

Dispensing data from New Zealand community pharmacies were used to identify patients who received their first statin dispensing between 2006 and 2011. The Medication Possession Ratio (MPR) and proportion who discontinued statin medication was calculated for the year following first statin dispensing for patients with a minimum of two dispensings. Adherence was defined as an MPR ≥ 0.8. Previous CVD was identified using hospital discharge records. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for demographic and statin characteristics.

Results

Between 2006 and 2011 289,666 new statin users were identified with 238,855 (82.5%) receiving the statin for primary prevention compared to 50,811 (17.5%) who received it for secondary prevention. The secondary prevention group was 1.55 (95% CI 1.51–1.59) times as likely to be adherent and 0.67 (95% CI 0.65–0.69) times as likely to discontinue statin treatment than the primary prevention group. An early gap in statin coverage increased the odds of discontinuing statin treatment.

Conclusion

Adherence to statin medication is higher in secondary prevention than primary prevention. Within each group, a range of demographic and treatment factors further influences adherence.
The DARC-null trait is associated with moderate modulation of NK cell profiles and unaltered cytolytic T cell profiles in black South Africans
Authors: Naidoo Kewreshini K. , Shangase Zesuliwe B. , Rashid Tabassum , Ngubane Ayanda , Ismail Nasreen , Ndung’u Thumbi , Thobakgale Christina F.
Published: November 2020

The Duffy Antigen Receptor for Chemokines (DARC)-null trait, common among persons of African descent and associated with lower absolute neutrophil counts (ANCs), may be linked to increased risk to certain infections including HIV-1 but the underlying causes are poorly understood. We hypothesized that DARC-null-linked neutropenia may negatively impact neutrophil immunoregulatory modulation of other immune cells such as natural killer (NK) and CD8+ T cells leading to altered phenotype, functionality and homeostatic activity of these immune cells. HIV-1 uninfected (n = 20) and HIV-1 chronically infected (n = 19) participants were assessed using multi-parametric flow cytometry to determine NK and CD8+ T cell counts, phenotypic profiles, and cytokine production and degranulation. Annexin V and carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) staining were used to examine NK cell survival and NK cell and CD8+ T cell proliferation respectively. Participants were genotyped for the DARC-null polymorphism using allelic discrimination assays and ANCs were measured by full blood count. In HIV uninfected individuals, a reduction of total NK cell counts was noted in the absence of DARC and this correlated with lower ANCs. HIV uninfected DARC-null subjects displayed a less mature NK cell phenotype. However, this did not translate to differences in NK cell activation or effector functionality by DARC state. Whilst HIV-1 infected subjects displayed NK cell profiling that is typical of HIV infection, no differences were noted upon DARC stratification. Similarly, CD8+ T cells from HIV infected individuals displayed phenotypic and functional modulation that is characteristic of HIV infection, but profiling was unaffected by the DARC-null variant irrespective of HIV status. Overall, the data suggests that the DARC-null polymorphism and lower ANCs does not impede downstream cytolytic cell priming and functionality.
Parental feeding practices and the relationship with parents in female adolescents and young adults with eating disorders: A case control study
Authors: Gruber Maria , König Daniel , Holzhäuser Julika , Castillo Deirdre Maria , Blüml Victor , Jahn Rebecca , Leser Carmen , Werneck-Rohrer Sonja , Werneck Harald
Published: November 2020

Objective

Perceived parental influence on diet in early adolescence in the context of the parental relationship had previously not been studied in a clinical sample. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible association between eating disorders and characteristics of the relationship with parents and the parental feeding practices in early adolescence.

Methods

21 female adolescents and young adults with an eating disorder (ED)–bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa–and 22 females without eating disorder (healthy control; HC), aged between 16 and 26, were assessed via self-report questionnaires for problematic eating behaviour, relationship with parents, perceptions of parent’s feeding practices at the age of 10–13 years and personality. Statistical evaluation was performed by means of group comparisons, effect sizes, regression analyses and mediator analyses.

Results

Adolescent and young adult females with ED reported more fears/overprotection and rejection/neglect by their mothers and less self-responsibility in terms of eating behaviour during adolescence than did the HC. The relationship with the fathers did not differ significantly. Females who perceived more cohesion, rejection/neglect and fears/overprotection by the mother were more likely to suffer from an ED. Rejection/neglect by both parents were associated with less self-acceptance of the young females with even stronger effect sizes for the fathers than the mothers. Harm prevention in the young females was a partial mediator between fears/overprotection and the drive for thinness.

Conclusions

The parental relationship is partly reflected in the self-acceptance and self-responsibility in eating of the adolescent and young females, both of them are particularly affected in EDs. Stressors in the parent-child relationship should be targeted in treatment of eating disorders. Nutritional counselling for parents might be useful in early adolescence.
Greater effects of mutual cooperation and defection on subsequent cooperation in direct reciprocity games than generalized reciprocity games: Behavioral experiments and analysis using multilevel models
Authors: Horita Yutaka
Published: November 2020

Reciprocity toward a partner’s cooperation is a fundamental behavioral strategy underlying human cooperation not only in interactions with familiar persons but also with strangers. However, a strategy that takes into account not only one’s partner’s previous action but also one’s own previous action—such as a win-stay lose-shift strategy or variants of reinforcement learning—has also been considered an advantageous strategy. This study investigated empirically how behavioral models can be used to explain the variances in cooperative behavior among people. To do this, we considered games involving either direct reciprocity (an iterated prisoner’s dilemma) or generalized reciprocity (a gift-giving game). Multilevel models incorporating inter-individual behavioral differences were fitted to experimental data using Bayesian inference. The results indicate that for these two types of games, a model that considers both one’s own and one’s partner’s previous actions fits the empirical data better than the other models. In the direct reciprocity game, mutual cooperation or defection—rather than relying solely on one’s partner’s previous actions—affected the increase or decrease, respectively, in subsequent cooperation. Whereas in the generalized reciprocity game, a weaker effect of mutual cooperation or defection on subsequent cooperation was observed.
Community’s perceived high risk of coronavirus infections during early phase of epidemics are significantly influenced by socio-demographic background, in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia: A cross-sectional -study
Authors: Kabito Gebisa Guyasa , Alemayehu Mekuriaw , Mekonnen Tesfaye Hambisa , Daba Wami Sintayehu , Azanaw Jember , Adane Tsegaye , Azene Zelalem Nigussie , Merid Mehari Woldemariam , Muluneh Atalay Goshu , Geberu Demiss Mulatu , Kassa Getahun Molla , Yenit Melaku Kindie , Tilahun Sewbesew Yitayih , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu , Mekonnen Habtamu Sewunet , Azagew Abere Woretaw , Wubneh Chalachew Adugna , Belay Getaneh Mulualem , Assimamaw Nega Tezera , Agegnehu Chilot Desta , Azale Telake , Tamiru Animut Tagele , Rade Bayew Kelkay , Taye Eden Bishaw , Taddese Asefa Adimasu , Andualem Zewudu , Dagne Henok , Gashaye Kiros Terefe
Published: November 2020

Background

Epidemiological studies during the early phase of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemics reported different level of people’s risk perception in different countries. There is a paucity of data on perceived high risk of COVID-19 and associated factors in Ethiopia. We sought to assess the prevalence of community’s perceived high risk about COVID-19 infections and associated factors among Gondar town community.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out from April 20 to 27, 2020 in Gondar town community, Northwest Ethiopia. Multistage cluster sampling technique was used to recruit 635 participants. Structured and pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression were used to summarize the results.

Results

A total of 623 participants were considered in the analysis with a response rate of 98.1%. The prevalence of coronavirus high risk perceptions of the respondents was found to be 23.11% (95% CI; 19.80%–26.43%). Age above 45 years (AOR = 1.41, 95%CI; 1.19–2.66), college and above educational level (AOR = 0.28, 95%CI; 0.21–0.98), and poor knowledge towards COVID-19 virus (AOR = 1.57, 95%CI; 1.09–2.23) were significantly associated with perceived high risk about COVID-19.

Conclusions

The prevalence of perceived high risk of COVID-19 was found to be low. Factors such as age, educational status, and knowledge about COVID-19 virus were found to be independent predictors of perceived high risk towards COVID-19. Government and non-government organizations should use formal and informal means of educating the community.
Dialogue in the studio: Supporting comprehension in studio-based architectural design tutorials
Authors: Tahsiri Mina
Published: November 2020

This article examines perceptions regarding the purpose and delivery of tutorials in the architectural design studio that can support how students comprehend feedback. It draws on literature on ‘dialogic feedback’ and theoretical accounts of ‘dialogue’, framing the notion of the dialogic as one in which meanings and identities are realized through a multi-voiced state, questioning the extent to which studio-based tutorials can be considered dialogic. The study uses thematic analysis to reflect on 212 accounts of educators and students at a UK-based architecture school. The article highlights that a comprehension-oriented praxis as opposed to an assessment-oriented praxis can better enable dialogic practice, allowing learners to realize, position and comprehend their own voice amongst the divergent views. The article extends the critical body of work dedicated to evaluating feedback delivery in one-off review sessions, to the context of tutorials and their longitudinal implications on the learning experience.
Investigation of the contribution of virtual reality to architectural education
Authors: Erkan İlker
Published: November 2020

This study mainly examines the contribution of the virtual reality environment to architectural education. The primary aim of the study was to investigate the theoretical possibilities of VR technology in an interactive and participatory educational environment that would allow students to examine architectural components and inter-component relationships. A group of 160 volunteers participated in the study, with participants asked to design villas in both natural (non-VR) and virtual reality (VR) environments within a specific period. Designs made in both environments (VR and non-VR) were evaluated by a team of five experts (jurors). For the evaluation, jurors wore eye-tracking devices and were asked to comment on the designs in both environments. In the virtual reality environment designs, the following categories showed significant differences over the drawings in a natural environment: functionality, aesthetics, user perception of space and internal physical quality (light quality), indicating that the virtual reality designs were examined more closely by the jurors than were those in the natural environment. This study will contribute to design discipline if virtual reality systems are adopted in architecture education.
Tying a (rain)bow at the end: Controversial representations of Krotoa from text to film
Authors: Barnabas Shanade Bianca , Jansen van Vuuren Anna-Marie
Published: November 2020

Krotoa-Eva, servant-cum-translator-cum-diplomat, instrumental in the dealings between the Dutch and the Khoi at the Cape in the 1600s, is a woman whose story has been (re)constructed countless times. Through sparse historical documentation, she has been described as a drunk, traitor, bad mother, thief, ungrateful primitive, shrewd mediator and most recently a heroic foremother of Afrikaans-speaking South Africans. This article tracks these representations, paying particular attention to the 2017 South African-made film Krotoa, and situates this latter representation within theoretical discussions of nationalism and cinema, women in the national heritage narrative and the historic film as a vehicle to express, in its own way, the emotions, trauma and systems of the past still relevant today. We argue that the filmmakers’ attempt to tell the story of Krotoa, while masterfully crafted, artful and poignant, succumbs in the end to a weak nation-building epilogue that does little justice to the nuances of power, oppression and perseverance foundational to Krotoa’s life story.
Acessibilidade em meios de hospedagem: O uso de processos inovadores no atendimento das necessidades do turista com deficiência
Authors: Ferst Marklea da Cunha , De Souza Julia Ismar Silva , Coutinho Helen Rita Menezes
Published: November 2020

O objetivo geral do artigo é analisar a utilização de processos inovadores para o atendimento das necessidades da pessoa com deficiência nos meios de hospedagem localizados próximos aos atrativos do Centro Histórico de Manaus. Esta pesquisa tem como objetivos específicos: caracterizar a deficiência e o turismo acessível a partir da literatura acadêmica e da legislação brasileira; identificar na legislação do Brasil quais os requisitos devem ser observados pela rede hoteleira para o atendimento das necessidades da pessoa com deficiência; caracterizar a inovação na gestão hoteleira a partir da literatura acadêmica; analisar se existem práticas inovadoras de gestão hoteleira para o atendimento das necessidades da pessoa com deficiência pelos meios de hospedagem. Como procedimentos metodológicos, utilizou-se o método indutivo, com abordagem quantitativa, com objetivos de pesquisa exploratória e descritiva e com procedimentos bibliográficos e de campo, com uma amostra de 18 meios de hospedagem. A pesquisa constatou que nos meios de hospedagem localizados próximos aos atrativos do Centro Histórico de Manaus não são utilizados processos inovadores na gestão de atendimento do segmento de clientes com deficiência. O diferencial deste artigo é a abordagem específica dos requisitos previstos na legislação a serem atendidos pelos meios de hospedagem, ante o recente Decreto regulamentador promulgado em 2018.
Turismo cultural acessível: a percepção dos gestores dos principais teatros de Brasília
Authors: Duarte Donária Coelho , Honorato Thaiza Silveira
Published: November 2020

O Turismo Cultural é um segmento que se manifesta de diversas formas, uma delas é a visitação a monumentos que produzem cultura, como é o caso dos teatros. Estes devem ser acessíveis para diversos públicos, inclusive para os usuários de cadeira de rodas. Neste sentido, o artigo analisa a acessibilidade para usuários de cadeira de rodas nos principais teatros da cidade de Brasília/DF a partir da percepção de seus gestores. Para tanto, realizou-se uma pesquisa qualitativa, exploratória, com aplicação de um roteiro de entrevista, analisado à luz das pesquisas bibliográfica e documental. Ao total, oito teatros foram pesquisados. Apesar de todos os estabelecimentos considerarem importante a acessibilidade para a hospitalidade deste público, seis gestores alegaram que seus espaços não são adaptados para receber usuários de cadeira de rodas. Estes colocam como principal fator impeditivo a dificuldade financeira para que sejam feitas as devidas adaptações. Para que esse cenário mude, aconselha-se que os gestores conheçam a legislação e as normas que tratam sobre acessibilidade para adequar os espaços e busquem recursos para superar as dificuldades que atrapalham a sua implementação.
Effect of Muscle Energy Technique on Piriformis Tightness in Chronic Low Back Pain with Radiation
Authors: Deshmukh Mitushi Kishor , Phansopkar Pratik Arun , Kumar Kiran
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND Low back pain is a common condition in India. 90 % of Indian population experience low back pain at least once in their lifetime. Studies show that 98 % low back pain is because of mechanical disorder of spine. Piriformis tightness is one of the most misdiagnosed causes for low back pain or sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Various manual therapy approaches have been studied for reducing muscle tightness. We wanted to assess the effectiveness of muscle energy technique that is post-isometric relaxation technique on piriformis muscle tightness, its effectiveness in relieving low back pain with radiation, and increasing range of motion. METHODS 60 patients were included in the study as per inclusion and exclusion criteria from Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Sawangi Meghe, and were randomly assigned in to two groups. The duration of study was 12 days (6 sessions / week) and follow up was taken on 27th day. Subjects in muscle energy technique experimental group were treated with post isometric relaxation technique (PIR), subjects in control group were given simple passive stretching of piriformis. All subjects were educated about proper ergonomics. RESULTS Both interventions post isometric relaxation and simple stretching techniques were effective in terms of pain reduction, ROM (Range of Motion) improvement, piriformis tightness, disability with p < 0.05 with post isometric relaxation technique superseding simple stretching. Moreover, post isometric relaxation technique in muscle energy technique had sustained effects on follow-up in terms of relieving pain, disability and tightness for longer period of time. CONCLUSIONS Muscle energy technique gives immediate relief of pain improving ROM and decreasing tightness of piriformis and disability and has longer lasting effects. KEY WORDS Piriformis Tightness, Muscle Energy Technique, Stretching.
A Comparative Study of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in Acute and Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: S. Thaslima Nandhini , R Gayatri Devi
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of gum which surrounds and supports the teeth. Globally, periodontal disease is one of the most common oral diseases. Unhealthy periodontium has been connected to systemic conditions like pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases. Periodontal disease affects individuals of all ages, but it is most commonly seen in elderly patients. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 65 % of people have respiratory problems due to periodontal disease. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) is defined as the maximum rate and speed of expiration of an individual. We wanted to determine and compare PEFR in acute and chronic periodontitis. METHODS The present case control study was carried out among patients in the 20 - 40 years age group, who were attending outpatient department of Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals. Study participants were grouped into three categories as ‘normal individuals’, ‘patients with acute periodontitis’ and ‘patients with chronic periodontitis’; each group had 20 people. Spirometer was used to detect the peak expiratory flow rate. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS. P value of less than or equal to 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. RESULTS Results were obtained and expressed as mean ± SD. The Tukey HSD Post-hoc Test was used. Significance value is < 0.05. PEFRs are 420 ± 21.37 and 317 ± 21.05 in control and periodontitis individuals, respectively. P values for these criteria were < 0.05. Males have a high PEFR when compared to females in normal individuals group. This difference was statistically not significant. Females have a high PEFR when compared to males in patients with acute periodontitis. This difference was statistically not significant. Males have a high PEFR when compared to females with chronic periodontitis. When compared within and between groups, it was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Periodontitis could be a key source of respiratory disorders. This study shows that acute periodontitis expiratory flow rate was greater than chronic periodontitis expiratory flow rate. Proper maintenance of oral health and early detection of periodontitis may aid in reducing the frequency of respiratory problems due to periodontitis. KEY WORDS Acute Periodontitis, Chronic Periodontitis, Peak Flow Meter, Respiratory Disease
Effectiveness of Foot Reflex Therapy in Post-Operative Pain among Patients Subjected to Major Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Ramalingam Poongodi , Ramakrishnan Ramya , Singaravelu Rajeswari , Subramaniam Aruna
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND Most patients experience post–operative pain and it is unavoidable. It is the duty of the nurses to ensure that patients' pain is assessed and managed effectively when they are at the hospital. Foot reflex therapy is one effective way nurses can adopt to manage the patient with pain after surgery. We wanted to evaluate the effectiveness of foot reflex therapy on post-operative pain in patients who are subjected to major abdominal surgery. METHODS This is a descriptive randomized control study that was conducted at Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Hospital, among 360 patients who underwent major abdominal surgery. They were equally divided into two groups as control and study groups and the results were analyzed statistically. RESULTS Majority of the patients in the study group showed a positive effect on pain control during 4th and 5th [ (Mean: 1.27 with SD: 1.12) (Mean: 0.03with SD: 0.32) at p < 0.001] post-operative day following foot reflex therapy. CONCLUSIONS The existing pain and the post-operative pain can be managed by nurses, patients, their care takers or families together, whenever appropriate, in a multidisciplinary manner. Foot reflex therapy is one such alternative complementary therapy which the nurses can adopt to implement the techniques independently. KEY WORDS Foot Reflex Therapy, Foot Reflexology, Alternative Medicine, Complementary Therapy, Post-Operative Day (POD)
Can we Consider Hotel Employees as Presenteeises?
Authors: Khairy Hazem Ahmed
Published: November 2020

Presenteeism is an issue that seriously affects the workplace as it can lead to the onset or increase harmful behaviors among employees. The empirical analysis was done to investigate such a concept among employees working in one of the stressful industries, namely, the hotel industry. Unfortunately, the high majority of the employees involving in this study were reported as presenteeises, they were engaging in such harmful behavior. Eventually, hotel management has to pay attention to such issues in terms of their wellness programs and absence management policies in order to be able to keep their employees healthy and productive.
The Requisite Knowledge for Construction Professionals in the Middle East Regarding Foreign Exchange Currency Fluctuation Risk
Authors: Almsaeed Haitham
Published: November 2020

Construction is commonly known as a high-risk business; the risks and uncertainties associated with construction activities are usually higher and more dynamic than any other industry. One of the risks imposed on the firms working abroad is related to the impact of currency fluctuation on operating performance. In the Middle East, the data collected on the ground indicate that many construction professionals, including estimators and cost controllers, either lack the necessary related knowledge or they tend to pay insufficient attention to this critical risk in their projects.

Because of the unstable global economy, a decreasing pipeline of new opportunities due to the deterioration of oil prices, and the more laborious and lengthy payment terms enforced in contracts across the Middle East, exchange rate movements play an increasing role in the contractors performance. Those who work in this region have begun to realise the challenges associated with managing the foreign currency exchange (FOREX) fluctuation risk.

This article provides an overview of the currency fluctuation risk within the context of the construction industry, identifies the associated challenges and attempts to offer a framework for the regional companies that could mitigate the FOREX risk.
COMPARATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL STATUS OF WOMEN WITH VARIOUS FORMS OF INFERTILITY
Authors: Vasilieva Valentina Valerievna , Botasheva Tatiyana Leonidovna , Zheleznyakova Elena Vasilievna , Zavodnov Oleg Pavlovich
Published: November 2020

Background. The current demographic situation in Russia causes an increase in interest in different studies of the reproductive potential of married couples, including various forms of female infertility. Aim. The purpose of the study was a comparative analysis of psychoemotional and personal characteristics of women with identified and unidentified infertility factors. Materials and methods. Two groups were formed for a comprehensive psychological examination: the first group included 52 patients with verified causes of infertility, the second group comprised of 46 women with an unexplained cause of infertility (idiopathic infertility). For mathematical processing of results, in order to identify statistical differences between parameters in groups, the Mann–Whitney U-test implemented in the SPSS 26.0.0.1 program was applied. Results. The analysis showed significant differences between women of the studied groups in a number of scales of the meaning of life orientation test, the Freiburg personality questionnaire, questionnaires of socio-psychological attitudes, reflexivity, level of aggression, methods of the lifestyle index, neuropsychic stress, “personal differential”, the test of the level of depression and stress resistance. Summarizing the data obtained, it can be noted that patients with established causes of infertility use opportunities to adapt to the new realities of life, including professional achievements, social and intellectual activity, to resolve this situation and reduce neuropsychic stress. Women with idiopathic infertility are characterized by more pronounced neuropsychic stress, neurotic reactions, infantile qualities, regressive behaviors, immature types of psychological defense, decreased activity, and changes in motivational attitudes. Conclusion. The choice of tactics for individualized psychological correction based on psychological examination of patients in an interdisciplinary approach will contribute to improving the effectiveness of infertility treatment.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF STAFF SELECTION BY A MODERN MANAGER
Authors: Koldybaev Safar Abdugalievich , Kinzhibaeva Aigul Serikpaevna
Published: November 2020

The article is dedicated to staff selection depending on the conditions of a modern organization and the nature of its functioning. Currently, staff selection at the request of a particular leader has become very common. The same tendency is observed in all countries and at all levels of the organization. There is no doubt that HR decisions are based not only on business interests but also psychological characteristics. Particular attention is paid to such concepts as team, leader, personality, as well as to psychological characteristics that emphasize the exceptional role of a leader in staff selection. It was found that the psychological component occupies a very important place in the team concept. Moreover, it plays a dominant role, both in terms of staff selection and team functioning. A team, as a modern form of social organization, embodies various psychological potential for its further expression. In some cases, positive psychological atmosphere can be an effective positive mechanism for society functioning. In other cases, psychological mood may already be different and aimed at selfish interests of the members of this organization, which do not coincide with the interests of other people.
SOCIOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TEAM INTERACTION OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DIFFERENT EXPRESSION OF A FIELD-DEPENDENT COGNITIVE STYLE
Authors: Shoshina Irina Ivanovna , Chauzova Elena Evgenievna
Published: November 2020

Background: The effectiveness of team interaction is often assessed through sociometric indicators, namely sociometric status and emotional reciprocity. At the same time, interpersonal interaction is a cognitive process, since it includes such mental processes as perception, categorization, thinking, speech, etc., which serve for information processing. These individual differences in the way information is processed underlie the concept of cognitive styles. Therefore, cognitive styles can hypothetically be considered as characteristics of interpersonal interaction and a predictor of its effectiveness. Aim: The paper aims to determine the sociometric characteristics of the effectiveness of team interaction of persons with different degree of the field-dependent cognitive style. Materials and methods. To assess field-dependence/field-independence, the Gottschaldt Embedded Figures method was used. The effectiveness of team interaction was assessed using the Moreno small group study method. Statistical analysis was performed with the Mann-Whitney test using IBM SPSS Statistics 23. Results. It was found that persons with a mobile field-dependent cognitive style had a significantly higher hierarchical position and a stable position in the system of nterpersonal relations compared with persons with a polar field-dependent cognitive style. Evidence was obtained on the splitting of field dependence into polar field-dependent and mobile field-dependent styles. Conclusion. Field-dependence/field-independence can be considered as one of the basic inner qualities of a person's intellectual activity, which influences his/her behavior and interpersonal communication.
DIETARY PATTERNS WERE ASSOCIATED WITH OBESITY PARAMETERS AMONG HEALTHY WOMEN
Authors: Syauqy Ahmad , Noer Etika Ratna , Fajrani Alifia Mukti , Kurniawati Dewi Marfu’ah , Purwanti Rachma , Rahadiyanti Ayu , Rahma Devi Elvina
Published: November 2020

Background: Obesity is a growing major health problem in some developing countries including Indonesia. Study examined the association between dietary patterns and obesity parameters using both body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) among healthy women in Indonesia was still rare.  Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the correlation between dietary patterns and obesity parameters using BMI and WC among healthy women.Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design with consecutive sampling. Healthy women aged 20 and above were selected in this study. Dietary data were collected using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). For categorical data, chi-squared test was done to compare the differences in the characteristics of the subjects among tertiles of dietary patterns. For continuous variables, a general linear model test was used for comparison. To evaluate the association between dietary patterns and obesity parameters (BMI and WC), we used multiple linear regression analysis adjusting for multiple confounding variables (age, current smoking, current drinking, and physical activity). Results: Dietary pattern 1 consisted of 12 food items: snack cooked with oil, fish and seafood, processed food, organ meats, meat, poultry, rice- or flour-based products, staples cooked with oil, sugary drinks, refined dessert, and tea and coffee. Dietary pattern 2 consisted of 5 food items: eggs, light-colored vegetables, dark-colored vegetables, fruits, and soybeans. Dietary pattern 3 consisted of 7 food items: milk products, legumes, processed fruits, wholegrain, snacks cooked without oil, root crops, and jam/honey. Dietary pattern 1 was positively associated with obesity parameters including BMI and WC (P < 0.05); whereas, dietary pattern 2 and dietary pattern 3 were inversely correlated (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Our study find that dietary patterns were associated with BMI and WC among healthy women.
PENGETAHUAN PEDOMAN GIZI SEIMBANG DAN PERILAKU PILIHAN PANGAN PADA REMAJA PUTRI OVERWEIGHT: STUDI KUALITATIF
Authors: Silalahi Vivi Cinthya Rotua , Sufyan Dian Luthfiana , Wahyuningsih Utami , Puspareni Luh Desi
Published: November 2020

Latar Belakang: Pedoman gizi seimbang merupakan pengetahuan gizi yang harus dipahami oleh remaja putri, namun konsep pedoman gizi seimbang masih belum sefamiliar 4 sehat 5 sempurna. Perilaku pilihan pangan tidak sesuai anjuran pedoman gizi seimbang meningkatkan risiko overweight. Tujuan: Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi pengetahuan pedoman gizi seimbang dan faktor-faktor yang memengaruhi perilaku pilihan pangan pada remaja putri overweight. Metode: Penelitian menggunakan metode kualitatif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan wawancara mendalam dan triangulasi sumber. Jumlah subjek sebanyak 16 orang. Subjek penelitian ialah remaja dengan status gizi overweight dan normal (sebagai pembanding). Penelitian dilakukan selama 8 minggu. Hasil: Hasil penelitian menunjukkan seluruh subjek penelitian lebih mengenal 4 sehat 5 sempurna daripada Pedoman Gizi Seimbang. Pedoman gizi seimbang bukan menjadi alasan utama pilihan pangan subjek. Kebiasaan selalu sarapan sudah cukup baik diantara subjek, namun masih tingginya konsumsi pangan tidak sehat seperti makanan/minuman manis, gurih/asin, gorengan, serta komposisi makanan tidak seimbang diantara subjek penelitian.  Simpulan: Perilaku pilihan pangan remaja putri overweight belum sesuai dengan pedoman gizi seimbang disebabkan minimnya keterpaparan informasi PGS serta lebih kuatnya pengaruh faktor eksternal (lingkungan rumah, sekolah, keluarga, dan media digital) maupun faktor internal (organoleptik pangan dan uang saku) dalam pembuatan keputusan pilihan pangan subjek.
Towards the development of an Intelligent Management System
Authors: Shi Zheng , Wen Zheng , Xia Jin
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a architecture and several technical issues of an intelligent management system, which can bridging the substantial gap between the theory and practical of an intelligent management. The particular system, throughout its interactions with executives, automatically generated modules that lead to the accomplishments of executives’ changing tasks. The generated modules have new friendly interface. They adapted to executives’ role, computer skill, and special task. The adaptive behaviours of the system show that the system is superior to the prevailing systems.
A study of Perception and Engagement as a response of Consumers towards ads on Facebook and Google search engine
Authors: Usman Mohammed
Published: November 2020

Inbound marketing induces a customer to buy a product online by search engine optimization or various digital marketing strategies. Pull marketing is a proven way of attracting customers towards brands and engaging them for buying. Perceptions make an individual to either make a good image or bad image of the product. Buying products is a click away. Digital marketing is making reforms in India which are already doing well in foreign countries. India is witnessing a growth of internet usage due to digital marketing reforms, companies are using online marketing strategies to get them attracted towards their businesses. The online advertisement makes an individual to make the perception of the product and then respond in the form of clicking, liking sharing the social media content and then buying the product. The study will consider the demographic factors age group and gender as two variables for studying the perception of consumers towards social media. The study will help to determine customer engagement as a response to positive percetion of the ads on Facebook and Google search engine results.The engagement of customer is considered to be determined by three factors as browsing,sharing and buying products after getting influenced by ads on facebook and google serach engine results.
Mounting debts, less dividend payouts? The more loans companies have, the more dividends they pay
Authors: Guarino Arthur , Wang Wenjing
Published: November 2020

It has been a long-held principle in corporate finance that a company’s dividend payments must come from its net profits. Also, that the dividends paid to a company’s shareholders, whether holders of common or preferred stock, are entitled to some of those net profits in the form of dividends as a reward for investing and the risk involved. These concepts have been used in countless textbooks dealing with finance, accounting, and investments and has served as a basis for investors to purchase common or preferred stock throughout the decades. A company’s performance is often measured by how much dividends have increased over the years and whether it is a good long-term investment for individual investors, pension funds, mutual funds, and hedge funds. However, in recent years, the trend is changing in that corporations issuing common or preferred stock are paying dividends, not based on the amount of net profits they have made but based on the amount of financial capital that can be borrowed. A corporation may not necessarily make shareholders aware of this tactic as long as it adheres to its long-stated dividend policy and that they are receiving regular dividend payments whether they are increasing over time or remaining the same. The corporation could, in theory, maintain this method of paying dividends as long as the shareholders are satisfied and content with their cashflow from their equity investment in the company. But, in the long run, the corporation may actually be misleading shareholders as well as damaging the company’s financial situation by overextending itself with too much debt.
Feedback Learning Benefits and Issues in Education
Authors: Abdullah Rahman
Published: November 2020

Feedback learning poses many benefits to the education system, however, in executing feedback learning in order to gain better assessment and learning processes both for the students and lecturers, the challenges are big and daunting for many universities. This paper discusses the benefits and issues in Feedback Learning related to the learning processes and assessment measures.
Evaluation of the Budgetary Practice as a Financial Tool
Authors: Mirdan Alnujaimi Aws Aseed
Published: November 2020

In financial accounting, there are assorted tools and approaches to keep track of the business activities. These tools are required so that the overall planning and predictions can be done. Budgetary practice or simply the budget based planning makes use of the techniques so that the financial liabilities and the growth factors can be evaluated effectively. Budgeting is one of the key practices for the financial goals and the data based activities for final prediction and the outcome with greater degree of accuracy. This manuscript is having the focus on the presentation of key aspects of budgetary planning or practice as the key financial tool in the business organizations.
The ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AS A MODERATOR BETWEEN SELECTED INSTITUTIONAL REFORMS AND CHANGE OF BEHAVIOR OF INMATES. A STUDY OF CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES IN KENYA
Authors: KOOME GIKUNDI SOLOMON
Published: November 2020

This Research focused on organizational culture as a moderator variable between selected institutional reforms and change of behavior of inmates in correctional facilities in Kenya. The objective was   to assess the moderating influence of organizational culture on the relationship of selected institutional reforms and change of behavior of inmates in correctional facilities in Kenya. The study tested one alternate hypothesis on whether the relationship among the study variable was significant. The target population was 10,111 individuals spread as 2,953 prison officers and 7,158 inmates. From this population a sample was drawn using a formula totaling to 385 individuals who were picked for the study. Purposive sampling was used to select officers’ in-charge and their deputies. With r=0.747, t=8.558, at p=0.000, 0.05, HI was concluded that the relationship between institutional reforms and change of behavior of inmates is moderated by organizational culture. Findings of the study are expected to clearly demonstrate how continuous quality improvement should be undertaken within correctional facilities.