Balanced Relationship Research Articles

Legal Problems in Organizing Sick Leave for Workers under Jordanian Law

Sick leave is considered one of the essential types of leave that an employee may require during their service with an employer. Sick leave has received attention in numerous legislations in different countries, with provisions and considerations to ensure a balanced relationship between the worker and the employer. In the Jordanian context, the legislator has granted workers the right to sick leave if certain conditions are met. This raises the question of how well the Jordanian legislator considers the interests of both the worker and the employer and strives to create a balance between them. The worker is allowed to benefit from sick leave if specific conditions are met, which reflects the legislator's good intention to provide procedures that guarantee a fair balance between the interests of the worker and the employer. The worker is required to provide medical proof substantiating their need for sick leave. In this context, the role of the designated physician is crucial in assessing the health condition and the necessity of the leave. Despite these positive aspects, there may be potential challenges in implementing this system. The worker may encounter difficulties in obtaining medical reports within a short period, and the system may require more transparency and controls to ensure its fair and balanced utilization by all parties involved. Therefore, it is preferable to consider more details on how the law regulates sick leave and how it impacts the employment relationship. Additionally, it is important to address the specifics of implementing current laws and their effectiveness in protecting the rights of workers and the interests of employers.

Integration of ADEI Competencies in the Specialized Practice of Social Work Students and in the Act of Professionalization of Social Work

Considering the set of key competencies supported by social work organizations in the development of the social work profession at the global level, we aim to analyze from a theoretical point of view those competencies that presuppose the involvement in professional practice of attitudes and behaviors that support non-discrimination, cultural diversity, equity and inclusion in the training of social work students. The student in the field of social work here can be both the one who benefits from training and continuing education, and the one who in turn perpetuates future practices and balanced client-professional relationships, after being integrated into specific social work organizations. The analysis starts from how the professionalization of future social workers is correlated with their guidance and involvement in practices based on anti-racism/non-discrimination, equity, equal opportunities, cultural diversity and inclusion. The objective of this paper is to draw, at a theoretical level, lines of connection between professionalization practices at the international level - as formulated by the Boston University School of Social Work in agreement with the Council on Social Work Education, the national association that represents education of social work from the United States, with Romanian national norms - adopted from European and international practices - the National College of Social Workers in Romania (NCSWR/ CNASR - the acronym in Romanian language), in agreement with UNICEF and ISCO.

Evaluating parent and public involvement activities within a paediatric palliative care research centre: Route map to impactful and meaningful engagement

Background: Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) is an important component of healthcare research. Conducting PPI within paediatric palliative care research requires specific ethical and practical considerations. Regular reviews of PPI activity are important. Aim: To evaluate a paediatric palliative care research centre’s PPI activity to determine what went well, or less well; and how future activities can be improved. Design: Two stage evaluation: first a review of PPI study logs; second a qualitative exploration using a survey, structured interviews and a focus group. Data were analysed thematically. Settings/participants: Parents of children with life-limiting conditions, bereaved parents and researchers, all engaged in PPI activity within a paediatric palliative care research centre. Findings: The review of PPI logs for 15 studies highlighted the crucial role of funding in enabling PPI throughout the research. Eight parents completed the survey, 4 parents were interviewed and 12 researchers participated in a focus group. Three themes were developed: Clarity of processes and purpose; balanced relationships created a safe space; and mutual respect and value for PPI. These themes highlight what is working well within the Centre’s approach to PPI and the opportunities to improve. Conclusions: To undertake meaningful PPI in paediatric palliative care research, adequate time and resources are required. Roles, processes and expectations must be explicitly agreed. Establishing relationships ensures trust and enables authenticity and vulnerability. In addition to improving research, PPI has personal benefits for researchers and parents. The evaluation led to the development of a ‘route map’ for establishing an impactful PPI group for paediatric palliative care research.

Theoretical perfection and application of entransy analysis method on absorption systems

In thermal energy utilization scenarios, absorption systems have been widely and effectively utilized as heat exchange devices. However, existing thermal research methods on absorption systems for these scenarios have limitations. Therefore, the entransy parameter, which is applicable for analyzing the heat exchange process is chosen to study. The entransy balance relationship of the absorption system is theoretically analyzed, and the entransy analysis method is further perfected to break through the limitations. First, the entransy imbalance of the reversible absorption cycle is proved, and the reason for this imbalance is clarified that two heat-work conversion processes at different temperatures occur inside the cycle. Then, the working fluid's entransy change during the conversion process is theoretically derived and defined, and a new parameter: conversion entransy is defined based on it. Moreover, the comprehensive entransy balance equation and comprehensive entransy analysis method of absorption systems are further proposed. Finally, a specific case study is carried out, and this method is compared with the existing exergy analysis method and entransy analysis method without considering the conversion entransy respectively. By using this method, the optimal process form of the absorption heat exchanger can be directly obtained without numerical simulation calculations, demonstrating significant advantages.

Socio-Demographic Differences of Academic Motivation in Students

This paper reviews the research of learning in students throught socio-demographic determinants of academic motivation. The goal of this research was to determine statistically significant differences in some dimensions of academic motivation (internal motivation, external motivation and amotivation) in students in relation to variables from the socio-demographic domain (sex, age and education level of the respondents). The sample was apparent, 1711 respondents from four countries: Slovakia, Czechia, Serbia and Poland which are involved in some of the levels of formal education, from undergraduate, to doctorate. Respondents of both sexes were included, 20.7% were male, while 79.3% were female, ages ranging from 18 to 61 years (AS=25.4). The results of this study show that there are significant differences in the dimensions of academic motivation in relation to age, sex and education level of the respondents. This research has shown that internal motivation is less developed in younger age groups and those of lower educational levels. The results showed a relatively balanced relationship between internal and external motivation in women, which is not the case with men.

Effects of retained node numbers on berry maturity and yield components of cane-pruned Sauvignon blanc

Cane pruning is used in most New Zealand Sauvignon blanc vineyards to manage yield, vine balance (relationship between vegetative growth and fruit growth) and fruit primary and secondary metabolites. The source–sink ratio (TLA/FM—total leaf area to fruit mass or ELA/FM—exposed leaf area to fruit mass), the fruit mass to pruning mass (FM/PM), the fruit mass to cane mass (FM/CM) and fruit composition provide an assessment of the vine performance and balance. The interpretation of these metrics (i.e., TLA/FM, ELA/FM, FM/PM, FM/CM) requires their comparison with known optimal ranges specific to cultivars, locations and growing conditions. More often, such context- and cultivar-specific optimal ranges do not exist, thus warranting research to investigate them. To understand the influence of retained node numbers on the vegetative and fruit development of Sauvignon blanc, grapevines were pruned across three vineyard sites (two in Marlborough—Site 1 and 2, and one in Waipara—Site 3) over two growing seasons, retaining 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 nodes on one to four canes (each cane carrying ten nodes, with 50-node vines carrying on average 12.5 nodes on each of the four canes). The accumulation of soluble solids (TSS) generally increased at lower node numbers and vine yields, reflecting an increase in ELA/FM, with 50-node vines having the least TSS concentration at harvest. The average berry mass, titrable acidity (TA) and pH were unaffected by node numbers over the two seasons. A low source–sink ratio induced by high node numbers not only reduced the vine capacity to ripen the current crop but also reduced the following season’s bunch number per shoot (from 1.8 to 1.6 bunches per shoot; p < 0.05), average bunch mass (from 82.0 ± 6 g to 67.7 ± 3 g; p < 0.01) and bunch mass per shoot (from 153.5 ± 15 g to 106.7 ± 9 g; p < 0.05). When compared to 50-node vines, 10-node vines had a two-fold increase in the average cane mass (from 30.1 ± 3.9 g to 69.2 ± 8.7 g; p < 0.001) and average old cane mass (from 82.4 ± 6.9 g to 163.8 ± 21 g; p < 0.001). The ELA/FM and TLA/FM required for optimal TSS accumulation were 0.75 m2 kg-1 and 2.0 m2 kg-1, respectively, across all sites. A source–sink ratio above these values resulted in high average cane mass and average old cane mass (an indication of excess vigour), while lower values indicated reduced vigour and slowed TSS accumulation. This research provides useful optimal ranges to compare and interpret vine balance metrics measured at those sites.

Winter wheat source‐sink relationships under various planting modes, complementary irrigation, and planting densities

AbstractVarious agronomic practices can affect the processes of aboveground dry matter accumulation (source) and grain filling (sink), resulting in yield differences. Improved source‐sink relationships can facilitate the production and accumulation of assimilates to increase the productivity of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). A two‐season field experiment was undertaken on winter wheat during 2020–2021 and 2021–2022. In a split‐split‐plot design with three replicates (randomized blocks), we compared two planting modes (ridge‐furrow planting with plastic mulching [RFPM]; traditional flat planting [TF]), two complementary irrigation levels (I30+30: 30+30 mm; I0: no irrigation), and three planting densities (D1, D2, and D3: 240, 360, and 480 plants m−2). The results showed that RFPMI30+30 significantly increased maximum yield by 28.5% compared with TFI0. Although D3 increased the number of effective spikes per unit area and duration of grain filling compared to D2, it reduced the number of grains per spike, 1000‐grain weight, and average filling rate. Compared to TF and I0, RFPM and I30+30 improved the sink/source ratio by 5.3% and 6.5%, respectively. Grain yield peaked at D2 in the RFPM and at D3 in the TF. Medium planting density (D2) and complementary irrigation (I30+30) during the wintering and reviving periods under RFPM can achieve better source‐sink balance relationships and the maximum grain yield of winter wheat. Overall, we believe that in most cases, wheat yields are source‐limited and can be improved by ridge‐furrow planting with plastic mulching, complementary irrigation, and planting density regulation.

Nepal-India Political Relations: A Comprehensive Analysis of Historical Dynamics, Contemporary Challenges, and Future Prospects

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical dynamics, contemporary challenges, and future prospects in Nepal-India political relations. The diplomatic ties between the two nations, rooted in shared history, cultural affinities, and geographical proximity, have witnessed both cooperation and discord over the centuries. While historical documents highlight periods of mutual respect, the study delves into the complexities of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship in 1950, solidifying diplomatic bonds. However, recent years have seen a shift in this narrative, marked by territorial disputes, economic imbalances, and evolving geopolitical dynamics. Contemporary challenges include territorial disputes leading to diplomatic intricacies and economic imbalances raising questions about the equitable nature of the bilateral relationship. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining historical analysis, policy examination, and stakeholder perspectives to offer timely and relevant insights. Key informant interviews with political leaders, diplomats, and professionals provide a diverse understanding of the multifaceted issues at hand. The study identifies territorial disputes and unequal diplomatic treaties as major challenges, contributing to tensions in Nepal-India relations. It emphasizes the need for a peaceful discourse to resolve border encroachments and calls for a revision of existing treaties in light of changing regional and international circumstances. Additionally, socio cultural affinities between the two nations are explored, with strategies proposed for bridging gaps and fostering a sense of shared identity. The research concludes with strategies for future cooperation, advocating for a balanced diplomatic relationship that considers the changing global landscape. The equidistance principle is discussed, urging both nations to adapt their mindsets and refrain from micromanaging each other's domestic politics. The study underscores the importance of recognizing the historical ties between Nepal and India, emphasizing the potential for multifaceted alliances in the future.

Fluid Balance and Risk of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after On-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery

Background: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and is associated with increased adverse outcomes. However, the relationship of fluid balance and POAF is not clear yet. Accordingly, this study aims to study the relationship of fluid balance and POAF, and to evaluate the other risk factors of POAF in patients undergoing elective on-pump CABG with or without valve surgery in our center. Methods: A retrospective study between October 2018 and December 2022 including 261 patients who underwent CABG undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass was performed. The fluid balance on the first 4 days in the intensive care unit (ICU) and other potential perioperative risk factors for POAF were collected and analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses to identify risk factors following CABG. The in-hospital adverse outcomes of POAF were also evaluated. Results: 261 adult CABG patients were evaluated, of whom 22 were excluded due to a history of atrial fibrillation or other causes. Among them, 72 patients developed POAF (30.1%). The mean fluid balance was negative on the first 3 days. Negative fluid balance was less on postoperative day 0 (POD 0) in those developing POAF than in those not developing POAF (–12.88 ± 12.47 vs. –17.48 ± 10.03 mL/kg, p = 0.003). No differences were noted for POD 1 and POD 2. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed age >60 years (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 3.86 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.99 to 7.48]), left atrial antero-posterior (AP) dimension >42 mm (adjusted OR, 2.68 [95% CI: 1.45 to 4.93]), total blood transfusions >400 mL (adjusted OR, 1.96 [95% CI: 1.05 to 3.63]), and positive fluid balance on POD 0 (adjusted OR, 2.93 [95% CI: 1.01 to 8.51]) were independent perioperative risk factors for POAF. Conclusions: The incidence of POAF is not significantly reduced even with a fluid restriction strategy after CABG, and positive fluid balance on the day of surgery is a risk factor for POAF, rather than on POD 1 and POD 2. In addition, advanced age, left atrial enlargement, and increased perioperative blood transfusion are all risk factors for POAF.

Nonstationary Time Series Models Using ARDL and NARDL Estimation

The paper features an examination of the link between the behavior of the Money supply and Bank deposit in both an autoregressive distributed lag ARDL, plus a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag NARDL framework. The regression relationship between any two nonstationary time series suffer from the problem of superior regression and the results may be incorrect and unreliable, and to overcome this problem the aim of this paper was find a balanced relationship in the long - run between the variables of Money supply and Bank deposits using the method of cointegration by focusing on the behavior of the residuals of the cointegration model based on monthly data for a time series for the period (2010-2015). The time series stationary test was done by conducting the Unit Root Test based on the Philips-Perron test to find out the stationary of the variables and then detect the existence of the cointegration using the bounds testing, the tests showed the nonstationary of the time series at level I(0) and their become stationary after taking the first differences I(1). Bounds test showed the existence of cointegration .The Error correction model for the ARDL model was the best, despite the convergence of most of the test results for the two models, but the ARDL model was the more accurate with the speed of adjustment in the short -run to return to long-run equilibrium, as it reached (37%) and a period of two months for the ARDL model, while the percentage for the NARDL model was equal to (28%) and a period of time of approximately three and a half months.

The Risk-Profitability Nexus: Evidence from Algerian Insurance Companies

The purpose of this empirical study is to examine the relationship between key risk management components such as catastrophic indicators, underwriting practices, liquidity levels, and the retention index, and their impact on the financial performance of Algerian insurance companies. The research was conducted over a four-year period, from 2017 to 2021, using quarterly data from Algeria’s insurance company. The analysis was divided into two models. The first model concentrated on the effects of disasters and underwriting techniques on economic performance, while the second model examined the effects of retention and liquidity on economic profitability. The autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) was used for both models. The study showed that catastrophic risk and underwriting risk have a negative impact on short-term economic profitability, while liquidity risk and retention risk have a positive impact. Additionally, there are balanced long-term relationships between these risks and economic profitability. The study provides valuable insights into how certain risks affect an insurance company’s profitability. Using these findings, the Algerian Insurance Company can improve its risk management strategies, increasing profits and financial security in the long term. These findings may be useful not only for this specific company but also for other insurance companies dealing with similar risks. This study stands out for its specific focus on the Algerian insurance sector, thorough analysis of various risk factors, the use of the ARDL model, reliance on financial data, and its practical implications for the industry. These distinct features contribute to advancing academic understanding and offering valuable insights for insurance professionals and policymakers.

Relationship of Arm Length, Foot Length and Dynamic Balance in 9-12 Years Old Children

OBJECTIVE: Dynamic balance (DB) is defined as abilities that are operating during performance of a functional task such as reaching, walking, or running, irrespective of changing support surface (i.e. BOS). Functional Reach Test (FRT), which was developed by Duncan et al. in 1990. FRT is defined as the maximal distance one can reach forward beyond arm’s length while maintaining a fixed Base of Support (BOS) in standing. The outcome measures of dynamic balance (DB) are important elements of examination, which measures correlate with specific age but how anthropometric variables (e.g.: arm length, foot length, height, weight) which might influence balance is still unclear. The influence of arm length, foot length on dynamic balance in children is not well understood. Hence there is a need to investigate the relationship between arm length, foot length on dynamic balance in children. The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship of arm length, foot length on dynamic balance in 9-12 years old children. METHODOLOGY: This descriptive study (correlational study) was conducted among 41 children with typical development of age 9-12 years old (50% male and 50% females). Arm length (males 58.6 + 4.0; females 58.7 + 3.6), foot length (males 20.8 + 1.4; females 20.6 + 1.6). Dynamic balance was assessed using FRT, the participants were asked to reach three times and the scores were recorded. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The collected data was summarized using the descriptive statistics such mean +S.D. (standard deviation) to find the relationship between the arm length, foot length with dynamic balance in 9-12-years-old children. Pearson correlation coefficient is used, p value <0.05 was considered as significant. The data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 21. RESULTS: The mean distance reached by the children aged 9-12 years old were (males 22.2 + 5.1; females 22.9 + 6.6). The obtained p value for Pearson correlation coefficient is >0.05 and hence there is between arm length, foot length and dynamic balance in children of 9-12 years old. CONCLUSION: Dynamic balance has correlation with arm length and foot length. Hence it suggests that the arm length and foot length does influence the score of dynamic balance on FRT in children. Keywords: Arm length, foot length, dynamic balance, children, 9-12-year-olds

Key Factors Affecting Sustainable Economic Growth in the New Normal Era: An Empirical Analysis of Country Data

Purpose - The global economy has entered a new normal era since the financial crisis of 2007 and 2008. In fact, advanced countries and those emerging have been faced with low growth, low interest rates, low prices, high unemployment, increased government debt, and stricter regulations. Nonetheless, some countries have achieved sustainable economic growth. We attempted to identify factors influencing sustainable economic growth in this era by empirically testing a model with data regarding economic indicators in 25 countries. Design/Methodology - For this empirical test, a panel model was set with nine economic variables for 14 advanced and 11 emerging countries. We conducted both a panel unit root test and a cointegration test in order to measure the stationarity of the data. The results of these tests presented that there have been long-term balanced relationships among the variables. We also conducted another empirical analysis through the fixed effects model and random effects model, and performed a Hausman test to confirm that the fixed effects model was more valid. Findings - Empirical evidence using the fixed effects model showed that the consumption level, capital formation, openness of international trade, urbanization, and innovation ability were significant in promoting the economic development of developed countries, whereas population has a negative impact on the economic development of these countries. In emerging economies, capital formation and education level had a positive effect on sustainable economic growth. Population, openness to international trade, urbanization, and industrial structure had negative impacts on sustainable economic growth. This research contained a certain level of originality in the sense that we analyzed the effects of critical economic indicators on the sustainable economic growth in representative countries that have developed economically in the new normal era. Originality/value - Few studies focus on the inf luencing factors of sustainable economic development in a specific country. We may provide important implications for economic policy makers that want to grow their economies sustainably. We also may enrich a theoretical and practical basis on economic development.

Examining the interplay between managerial ties, dynamic capabilities and innovation climate in driving balanced and combined ambidextrous innovation

Purpose This paper aims to adopt the dynamic capabilities view to investigate the relationship between managerial ties (i.e. business and political ties), dynamic capabilities and innovation climate on ambidextrous innovation (i.e. balanced and combined ambidextrous innovation), in the renewable and sustainable energy context. It also examines the mediating effects of dynamic capabilities between managerial ties and ambidextrous innovation (i.e. balanced and combined ambidextrous innovation), and moderating effects between dynamic capabilities and ambidextrous innovation relationships. Design/methodology/approach Multilevel analyses conducted using AMOS 26 on 288 employees working in 47 UAE energy firms. Findings Results found that business ties influences balanced and combined ambidextrous innovation indirectly, whereas political ties only impact combined ambidextrous innovation indirectly through dynamic capabilities. Dynamic capabilities insignificantly mediated managerial ties–ambidextrous innovation and political ties–balanced ambidextrous innovation relationships, with stronger indirect effect on combined than on the balanced dimension. Findings also indicate that innovation climate is the crucial moderator between dynamic compatibilities and ambidextrous innovation, as well as balanced and combined ambidextrous innovation, with stronger effect on balanced dimension than the combined. Originality/value This study addresses recent calls by highlighting the role of dynamic capabilities, an important yet underexplored organizational capabilities in the innovation and ambidexterity literature. Also, this study advances insight into how balanced and combined exploration–exploitation innovation and dynamic capabilities are connected and enhances the understanding into how organizational factors stimulate dynamic capabilities leading to superior innovation.

Orthopaeddontics in Cleft Treatment

Orthopaeddontics offers a comprehensive treatment paradigm tailored to paediatric patients aged 5 to 11 years with cleft anomalies, focussing on early correction of dento-alveolar and orthognathial deformities alongside structured psychological support. The intensive pre- surgical preparational treatment phase, conducted during this very active growth period, lays the foundation for subsequent surgical interventions, particularly secondary osteofusion, in children with the CLA and CLAP deformities. The primary objective is to achieve optimal gothic arch formation, ideal maxillary-mandibular occlusal relationship and attain balanced facial aesthetics while mitigating orthognathial deformities. Following surgery, orthopeaddontic maintenance continues into the pre-adolescent years, typically until the age of 12 years, ensuring sustained treatment efficacy before transitioning to standard orthodontic care. Central to this approach is a non-extraction treatment philosophy targeting both primary and permanent dentition, aimed at aligning teeth to achieve the most ideal arch or horse-shoe- shaped alveolus arch for all of the two (uCLA/uCLAP) or three arch segments (bCLA/bCLAP) within a balanced maxillary-mandibular occlusal relationship with an ideal facial balance. Various orthopaeddontic techniques are employed to address abnormal dimensional appearances, complimented by a psychologically sensitive approach to support paediatric patients and their families. During the orthopaeddontic treatment the treating expert needs to liaise with the parents to support the cleft child with a gentle, psychologically meaningful approach to warrant essential ultimate outcome with lifelong positive aesthetic appearance and functionality and to secure an easier acceptance of their odyssey as a person with a cleft deformity. A result of the utilization of this growth phase, related to the midfacial development and function, needs to be comparable with the expected development of a non-cleft child at a similar age. Ultimately, successful orthopeaddontic intervention during the critical growth phase should yield marked improvements in speech, facial aesthetic and a functional occlusion, potentially reducing the need for future orthodontic treatments and minimizing treatment duration.

Empirical Study and Statistical Analysis of the Nexus between Smartphone and Academic Performance

The primary objective of this research is to investigate and determine the positive and negative influences of smartphones on students' academic performance. This is a comparative study of the effects of using smartphones on the academic performance of university students as students use their smartphones for both educational and recreational purposes. The research was conducted at different educational institutes in the Nawabshah district. The questionnaire was developed for this study and the sample size was 300, simple random sample techniques were used for data collection. Cross-tabulation and chi-square techniques were used to analyze the data. The result of the study found that students' smartphone use influences them positively and negatively. Also, most students consider smartphones useful for obtaining academic content. As a result, it is suggested that teachers use this medium to connect with students more frequently like chat groups to help everyone to stay connected. In addition, Educational institutions should also implement software that bans students from the use of social networking sites while attending class. Further, it is revealed that smartphones have a wide range of effects on the academic career of undergraduate students at Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Degree Boys' College Nawabshah, and the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Sakrand. Arguments. Hence, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the impact of smartphone usage on academic performance and provides insights into potential strategies for raising a balanced and productive relationship between students and their smartphones in the educational context.

Reimagining Futures: Environmental Activism and African Futurism in Nnedi Okorafor’s Lagoon

This study examines Nnedi Okorafor’s “Lagoon,” combining African futurism with environmental themes to shed light on how the text influences our understanding of ecological activism from an African perspective. By scrutinizing Okorafor’s storytelling, this paper unveils the intricate ways the narrative integrates traditional knowledge and forward-looking visions, championing a sustainable and balanced relationship with our environment. “Lagoon” offers a vibrant depiction of Nigeria’s environmental challenges, highlighting the adverse consequences of petroculture while also displaying a joint effort among humans, non-humans, and extraterrestrial entities to address these environmental perils. The novel emerges as a poignant evaluation of environmental disregard and a tribute to collaborative resilience, presenting a compelling outlook of optimism and rejuvenation. This analysis locates “Lagoon” as a core element of African futurism, demonstrating how the genre can transcend mere conjecture to serve as a crucial tool for environmental advocacy and transformation. Through an examination of “Lagoon” from the perspectives of African futurism and environmental critique, this article illuminates the novel’s substantial contributions to both literary and ecological dialogues. It highlights the potential of speculative fiction not only to portray urgent environmental concerns but also to stimulate innovative thoughts and initiatives. In essence, this research stresses the significance of embracing indigenous perspectives and advancements in shaping sustainable futures, establishing “Lagoon” as a pivotal text that resonates with audiences and academics alike in its plea for environmental consciousness and accountability.

Body Water Compartment and Sympathovagal Balance: Association with Visuomotor Retention in Young Adults

Cognitive functions are important for visuomotor learning and are associated with physiological factors such as body fluid compartment and cardiovascular reactivity. Previous studies found that body fluid compartment is associated with brain blood flow, which is regulated via sympathovagal balance. However, more evidence is needed to determine whether body fluid compartment and cardiovascular reactivity are associated with visuomotor learning. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship of body fluid compartment and cardiovascular reactivity to visuomotor learning. We hypothesized that these physiological factors are associated with overall learning retention using upper extremity (including feedforward, volitional, and feedback conditions). Methods: Thirty young adults (12 males, 24.6 ± 3.9 years, right hand dominant) participated in this study. Participants tracked a sinusoidal wave with left arm at pre-test, learning, and post-test sessions on the first visit and at retention test session on the second visit seven days later. Participants performed one set of nine trials during each test and five sets of three trials during learning. Resistance and wave velocity were different in each trial. Learning error was calculated by the averaged absolute distance between the tracking line and the target line. Heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and low to high frequency power ratio of heart rate variability (LF/HF) were continuously recorded during baseline before pre-test and during tests and learning. We analyzed participants’ extracellular to intracellular body water ratio (ECW/ICW) using an InBody body composition analyzer and tested their cognitive function with Picture Sequence Memory (PSMT), Pattern Comparison Processing Speed, Dimensional Change Card Sort, Flanker Inhibitory Control and Attention, and List Sorting Working Memory Tests from NIH Cognitive Toolbox. Data were statistically analyzed using linear regression analysis and quartile analysis. Results: ECW/ICW was associated with young adults’ ability to retain visuomotor learning after one week (R2 = 0.138, p = 0.043), whereas HR, SBP, and LF/HF at each session were not significantly associated with visuomotor retention. No differences were found in pre-test error among quartiles of five cognitive tests. Significant differences in retention error among quartiles were only found in PSMT, with participants scoring in the highest quartile of PSMT having lower SBP during the first visit and lower retention error compared to the lowest quartile. This finding suggests that young adults with better episodic memory were less stressed during learning and had better visuomotor retention. Conclusion: These findings support that ECW/ICW is associated with not only cognitive function but also visuomotor retention. In addition, cardiovascular reactivity during visuomotor learning may provide information for retention behavior. Relationship of body water compartment and sympathovagal balance to feedforward and feedback conditions in learning will be further discussed. Research Support: This study was funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development: R01HD084645, R01HD082109. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Unpacking Technostress: A Systematic Review on its Effects and Mitigation

The exponential growth of technology in everyday life has given rise to technostress, a condition marked by negative psychological and physiological effects. This systematic review synthesizes current research on technostress, examining its global definition, regional variations, impacts, opportunities and mitigation strategies. Drawing on established theories such as the Technostress Model, Job Demands-Resources Model, and Person-Environment Fit Model, the review explores the complex interplay between technology use and stress. The technostress model posits that technostress arises from negative reactions to technology use, fueled by information overload, task demands, and lack of control. The job demands-resource model views technology as either a stressor or a resource, impacting well-being based on organizational context and individual traits, while the person-environment fit model links technostress to capability-demand mismatches. Studies link technostress to anxiety, depression, and physical health problems. The review underscores the importance of tailored interventions, emphasizing organizational support, user-centered design, and individual coping mechanisms in managing technostress, especially in regions with high prevalence rates. In addition to these interventions, the review emphasizes the need for ongoing education and awareness campaigns to promote digital literacy and healthy technology habits. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, these initiatives can empower them to make informed decisions and effectively manage technostress in their daily lives. Highlighting the significance of culturally-tailored interventions, future research aims to refine mitigation strategies and investigate the potential benefits of technology use, ultimately fostering a balanced relationship with technology to minimize drawbacks and maximize advantages.

Pet Attachment and Animal Abuse in Human Relationships with Pets as Inspiration for Digital Artworks

Humans and animals have coexisted for a long time with mutual benefits to one another. Relationships between species can create a balanced relationship for the survival of living things on earth. Attachment is an emotional relationship formed by individuals with other individuals who are considered stronger during their lives. Attachment will tend to encourage individuals to trigger closeness through contact and sad reactions due to separation. Individuals have the goal of seeking security and comfort in attachment. Human attachment to pets includes emotional, psychological, and physical interactions that will develop into a good mutual relationship. In attachment relationships, the role of empathy, attachment and anthropomorphism (the human tendency to assign characteristics, feelings and behaviors to non-human species) can influence the level of concern for pet welfare. Lack of empathy, attachment and anthropomorphism can lead to lower levels of care for animals, which may lead to neglect and abuse. Animal abuse is deliberate and repeated behavior with the aim of causing physical or psychological suffering to animals. Physical or psychological suffering in detail includes suffering and misery as well as the onset of pain and death of the animal.