Moderate Relationship Research Articles

Individual differences in distributional statistical learning: Better frequency "discriminators" are better "estimators".

People can easily extract and encode statistical information from their environment. However, research has primarily focused on conditional statistical learning (i.e., the ability to learn joint and conditional relationships between stimuli) and has largely neglected distributional statistical learning (i.e., the ability to learn the frequency and variability of distributions). For example, learning that "E" is more common in the English alphabet than "Z." In this article, we investigate how distributional learning can be measured by exploring the relationship between, and psychometric properties of, four different measures of distributional learning-from the ability to discriminate relative frequencies to the ability to estimate frequencies. We identified moderate relationships between four distributional learning measures and these tasks accounted for a substantial portion of the variance in performance across tasks (44.3%). A measure of divergent validity (intrinsic motivation) did not significantly correlate with any statistical learning measure and accounted for a separate portion of the variance across tasks. Our results suggest that distributional statistical learning encompasses the ability to discriminate between relative frequencies and estimating them.

The Relationship Between Social Media Addiction and Narcissism on Social Media: A Comparison Between Generations Y and Z

One of the most effective outcomes of social media addiction and narcissistic tendencies is the failure observed in interpersonal relationships. From this perspective, social media addiction and narcissism are not only individual issues but also sociological problems. In this vein, our research aims to examine the levels of social media addiction and narcissistic traits on social media among individuals belonging to Generation Y and Generation Z according to sociodemographic variables, and to identify differences between the two generations. A total of 682 individuals participated in the study, including 328 from Generation Y and 354 from Generation Z, selected through purposive sampling methods, specifically criterion sampling. Participants were administered a sociodemographic information form, the Social Media Addiction Scale-Adult Form, and the Narcissism on Social Media Scale. According to the results of the study, the level of social media addiction and narcissism on social media is significantly higher in Generation Z. There is a moderate positive relationship between social media addiction and narcissism on social media, with narcissism on social media explaining 22,3% of the variance in social media addiction. The findings of the study are discussed in line with the relevant literature, and suggestions for research and practice are offered.

Development of the Leisure Time Attitude Scale for Children with Visual Impairment

This study was conducted to develop a leisure time attitude scale for children with visual impairment. The sample of the study consisted of 529 children with visual impairment. With the consent of the children's parents and themselves, they were asked to answer the sociodemographic information form and the list of questions in the leisure time attitude scale for children with visual impairment, which was created by the researcher team based on expert opinion. Cronbach's alpha and Omega coefficients of the scale were found to be 0.94. In the correlation coefficient used as test-retest reliability method; a moderate and high level positive relationship was found between the scores obtained from the first and second applications (0,74; 0,65; 0,72; 0,66). According to the criterion validity findings; a moderate positive and significant relationship was found between the scores obtained from the leisure time attitude scale for children with visual impairment and the general leisure time attitude scale (p<0.01). These results showed that the leisure time attitude scale for children with visual impairment is a valid and reliable new scale.

Perfusion index as an early predictor of hypotension during advanced oncothoracic operations (pilot study)

Introduction. Current standards of intraoperative monitoring significantly reduce the response time to a decrease in blood pressure, but do not include methods for predicting changes in hemodynamics to avoid the effects of systemic hypoperfusion.The objective was to evaluate the usefulness of determining the perfusion index for predicting the development of hypotension and its earlier correction during advanced oncothoracic operations.Materials and methods. A prospective open-label observational study was conducted, which included 100 patients who underwent elective oncothoracic surgery. Standard monitoring was established, as well as continuous monitoring of the perfusion index. The perfusion index value was recorded immediately before induction. The patients were divided into 2 groups: in the 1st group (n = 37), patients experienced a decrease in blood pressure, requiring vasopressor support; in the 2nd group (n = 63), no vasopressor support was required.Results. A moderate linear relationship was revealed with a correlation coefficient (r) equal to (–0.68), p < 0.001, and a strong non-linear relationship with a coefficient (ρ) equal to (–0.95), p < 0.001. To identify the relationship model, polynomial regression analysis was performed. A prognostic formula for the use of vasopressors was calculated depending on the preoperative level of perfusion index. At the next stage, a classification tree for analyzing the data array was used. The entire d data array (n = 100) is randomly divided into training (n = 70) and test samples (n = 30). It was revealed that hypotension requiring vasopressor support occurred in patients whose initial perfusion index was ≤ 2.85. ROC analysis determined an AUC of 0.952 (95% CI: 0.888–1.016).Conclusion. A low PI value before induction of anesthesia during advanced oncothoracic operations can be used to monitor the functional activity of the autonomic nervous system and predict intraoperative hypotension. Patients with a baseline PI ≤ 2.85 have a higher risk of developing hypotension during advanced oncothoracic surgery compared with those with a baseline PI ≥ 2.85. The effectiveness of the method in patients with concomitant pathologies has not been tested.

Relationship between physical activity, body posture and morbidity risk in the elderly population

Background Physical activity plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of older adults, positively influencing various aspects of their quality of life. This study aims to explore the relationship between physical activity and body segments, as well as the risk indices of non-communicable chronic diseases in healthy elderly individuals. Methods The analyzed variables include weekly physical activity, the Postural Correction Index (PCI), measured using the system developed by Portland State University (PSU), and predictors of non-communicable chronic diseases assessed through body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio. Results The results reveal a moderate positive relationship between physical activity and the PCI (r=0.45; p≤0.05), with significant correlations in specific components of the PCI, such as thoracic depression (r=0.51; p<0.01), anteroposterior shoulder alignment (r=0.51; p<0.01), and upper back (r=0.53; p<0.001). Conclusions It is concluded that physical activity has a significant positive impact on the posture of older adults, particularly in the trunk, contributing 40% to the improvement of PCI components. The PCI values obtained, exceeding 82.67 in men and 84.67 in women according to the PSU evaluation, underscore the effectiveness of physical activity in postural correction and the prevention of issues associated with chronic diseases.

Project Time Management and Performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Programme at Central Rift Water Works Development Agency.

The general objective of the study was to examine the influence of Project time management on the performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Projects at Central Rift Water Works Development Agency specifically the study. The study was anchored by pickle jar theory, theory of constraints, theory of effective project implementation and communication theory. A descriptive survey design was used in this research. The study targeted project managers, consultants, coordinators, engineers, contractors, community representatives, and representatives from the Ministry of Water and Irrigation in three projects under the Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Programme, carried out by the Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency. The counties involved are Narok and Nyandarua. A sample size of 83 respondents was used. The participants in the study were chosen using a simple random selection method. Data was collected using a questionnaire and interview schedule. The analysis was both qualitative and quantitative. Quantitative data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25. The study analysed both descriptive and inferential statistics. Thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data collected from the interview schedule. The analysis revealed a Pearson correlation of (r=0.512, p<0.05). This indicated a moderate positive and significant relationship between project time planning and the performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Projects. The also showed a Pearson correlation of (r= 0.553 p<0.005) which indicates a positive and significant relationship, suggesting that effective prioritization of time-related tasks plays a crucial role in enhancing project performance. Additionally, the correlation analysis for time tracking yielded a Pearson correlation of (r=0.390 p<0.005). This suggests a moderate positive and statistically significant relationship between time tracking and project performance. Lastly, the study revealed the impact of project team communication on performance, finding a Pearson correlation of (r= 0.672 p<0.005). This indicated a strong positive and significant relationship, suggesting that effective communication among project teams significantly enhances performance outcomes. The findings indicated that 45.1% of the variation in the performance of the project could be explained by the independent variables studied, while 54.9% of the variation is attributed to other factors not covered in this study. The study concluded that project time planning, time prioritization, time tracking, and project team communication had an effect performance of Kenya Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Projects at Central Rift Water Works. The study recommends implementing structured time planning methods, enhancing time tracking, and fostering effective communication within teams to improve project performance. Future research should explore stakeholder engagement and the role of emerging technologies in water project management

Exploring Key Factors Influencing Fashion Preferences and the Role of Social Media Advertising in the City of Koronadal, South Cotabato, Philippines

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the influence of social media advertising on consumer fashion preferences in the City of Koronadal, South Cotabato, Philippines. By analysing the interplay between various social media platforms and consumer behaviour, the research seeks to offer insights into how digital advertising shapes fashion preferences and helps businesses optimize their marketing strategies. Study design/methodology/approach: The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses. Socio-economic profiles of respondents were examined to identify demographic trends. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationship between social media advertising and consumer fashion preferences, with a focus on the impact of different advertising elements such as "seller-created information" and "electronic word of mouth”. Findings: The research found that females aged 26 to 50, with low-income levels, were the predominant demographic among fashion consumers in Koronadal. The primary platforms for fashion-related ads included Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Correlation analysis revealed a moderate relationship between social media advertising and consumer preferences, while regression analysis identified "seller-created information" and "electronic word of mouth" as significant factors influencing consumer fashion preferences. "Information acquisition," "perceived quality," and "perceived risk" showed lesser effects and did not achieve statistical significance. Originality/value: This study provides a nuanced understanding of the role of social media advertising in shaping consumer fashion preferences. By highlighting the effectiveness of specific advertising elements and platforms, the research offers valuable insights for businesses aiming to refine their digital marketing strategies. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on consumer behavior in the digital era, emphasizing the importance of tailored advertising approaches to effectively engage and influence fashion consumers.

Altitude, Land Use and Soil Depth Effects on Earthworm Density and its Relationship to Soil Properties in an On-Farm Study

Abstract Purpose Earthworms play a critical role in soil ecosystem functions through the cycling of organic matter and nutrients. However, some land uses or environmental conditions are more favorable habitats for them than others. Thus, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of earthworm density and its relationship to land uses and soil properties. Methods The study was conducted in three districts (Wangdue Phodrang, Chhukha and Dagana) in Bhutan in three land uses (organic fields - OrgF, conventional fields - ConF and natural vegetation - NatV) under three altitudes (high-, mid- and low-altitudes) and three soil depths. Results Overall, earthworm density at high-altitude was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than that at mid- and low-altitude sites. Further, across altitudes and soil depths, OrgF sites had a significantly (P < 0.001) higher earthworm density (120 earthworms m− 2) compared to that in the NatV (56 earthworms m− 2) and ConF (43 earthworms m− 2) sites, and the density decreased significantly (P < 0.001) and successively with the increase in soil depth. The coefficient of determination (R2 ≥ 0.51; P < 0.001) showed a positive and moderate relationship between the earthworm density with soil organic C and total N in OrgF sites, but the relationship was weak (R2 ≤ 0.22) in the ConF or none in the NatV sites. Conclusions Substituting chemical fertilizers with organic manures could increase earthworm density by enhancing soil health through the cycling of organic materials and nutrients in the soil. The findings demonstrate empirical evidence for earthworm prevalence in different land use types across altitudinal gradients and provide valuable decision-making insights to land users and policymakers alike.

All gain and no pain? Impacts of different green human resource management practices on employee green behavior: Evidence from Chinese electric vehicle sector

Despite much research focusing on green human resource management, there is still a lack of comprehension regarding when and how different green human resource management practices influence employee green behavior. This research aims to construct and verify a research model in which different green human resource management practices influence employee green behavior through mediated pathways of perceived organizational green support and by interactive impact of employee green value. Structural equation modeling and importance-performance map analysis were performed based on survey data collected from 333 employees working in Chinese electric vehicle companies. The results revealed that most investigated practices are positively related to employee green behavior, and most of these relationships are mediated by perceived organizational green support and moderated by employee green value. However, green reward management negatively influences employee green behavior, and perceived green support does not mediate this relationship. Meanwhile, employee green value weakens green reward management’s negative impact on employee green behavior, while it does not moderate relationships between green training and development, nor green performance management and green behavior. Additionally, findings indicate that green training and development exhibits the highest performance while green involvement and engagement has the greatest total effect on employee green behavior. This study is the first to compare the effectiveness and performance of different green human resource management practices using data from the Chinese electric vehicle industry, providing insights for industrial environmental management and contributing to the growing body of literature.

Impact of Managerial Skills on Organizational Development: An Applied Study in the Regional Directorate of Transport and Communications of the Amazonas Region

This study analyzes the relationship between managerial skills and organizational development in the Regional Directorate of Transport and Communications of the Amazon Region during the year 2021. A quantitative approach with descriptive-correlational and non-experimental design was adopted, using a structured questionnaire applied to a sample of 72 workers. The results show that there is a low but significant positive evaluation between managerial skills (leadership, communication, decision making and motivation) and the dimensions of organizational development (planning, organization, integration and direction). The highest rating coefficient was Rho = 0.300, indicating a moderate relationship between managerial skills and overall organizational development. Although managerial skills influence process improvement and efficiency, other factors, such as organizational structure and available resources, also play a crucial role. It is concluded that it is essential to strengthen managerial competencies through continuous training programs and to improve internal processes in order to optimize organizational development in this public entity. Finally, it is suggested that other factors that may impact organizational development, such as technology and organizational culture, be explored in future studies.

The Effect of Wellness Programs on Employee Performance at The Technical University of Kenya

The quest for organizations to improve the health, job satisfaction, and overall performance of their employees has resulted into the adoption of wellness program. This applies for the Technical University of Kenya (TUK) where employee performance is considered integral in delivering quality education to students pursuing various courses. However, the effectiveness of these programs adopted at the TUK remains underexplored and especially with regards to how they impact on employee well-being and performance. This study sought to address this gap by examining how wellness programs impact on the performance of the employees at the university. The study used the descriptive research design and targeted the entire staff population using stratified random sampling to gather data from a representative sample of 182 individuals. The collected quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS. The findings revealed a moderate positive relationship between wellness programs and employee performance, with regression analysis showing that these programs accounted for 31.4% of the variance in performance. The qualitative findings indicated that wellness initiatives boosted morale, reduced absenteeism, and enhanced staff retention, though there were gaps in stress management and sports participation. The study, therefore, concluded that while the wellness programs at TUK had a positive impact, targeted improvements were required in stress management and sports activities. The study recommended the implementation of stress management workshops, enhancement of sports programs, and establishment of a feedback mechanism to continuously adapt and improve wellness initiatives

The Relationship Between Teaching Motivation of Teachers Working at Science and Art Centers (BİLSEM) and Their Competence in Designing Digital Materials

In this study, the relationship between teaching motivation and digital material design competencies of teachers working in Science and Art Centres (BİLSEM) was examined. Research data were obtained from teachers working in BİLSEMs in the 2022-2023 academic year. In the research, mixed method was used in which quantitative and qualitative data were handled together. In the quantitative dimension of the research, gender and professional seniority differences between digital material design competencies and teaching motivation were examined with the data obtained from 106 teachers working in BİLSEMs across Turkey. In the qualitative dimension of the study, data were collected from 12 teachers working in a BİLSEM in the Western Black Sea Region with a semi-structured interview form. According to the results of the analyses, it was seen that BİLSEM teachers' digital material design competencies were at a high level. Teachers' intrinsic and extrinsic motivation levels were found to be at medium level. No significant difference was found between teachers' digital material design competencies and teaching motivation and gender and professional seniority variables. It was determined that there was a moderate positive relationship between teachers' digital material design competences and their teaching motivation (intrinsic-extrinsic). As a result of the research, it was revealed that teachers need training on current issues such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality.

Content Marketing and Performance of Domestic Tourism in Nairobi City County Wildlife Parks

Domestic tourism is vital in the Kenyan economy, contributing to job creation, income generation, and sustainable growth. However, Kenya's domestic tourism industry has declined recently, with a notable drop in visitation to the wildlife parks in Nairobi City County since 2019. This decline may be attributed to low awareness levels, ineffective marketing strategies, and a lack of targeted communication. This study explored the influence of content marketing on the performance of domestic tourism. The study was conducted in four wildlife parks in Nairobi City County, Nairobi National Park, Giraffe Centre, Snake Park, and Mamba Village, with a descriptive research design. Convenience sampling was used to select a sample of 388 respondents, consisting of 384 tourists and four marketing managers from the respective animal parks. Data was collected through structured questionnaires administered to domestic tourists visiting the wildlife parks and interviews with marketing managers. Descriptive statistics provided insights into various aspects of the data, whereas correlation and regression analyses were conducted to examine deeper relationships within the data. The analysis reveals a correlation coefficient (R) of .610 between content marketing and domestic tourism performance, indicating a moderate positive relationship. The coefficient of determination (R square) of .372 suggests that content marketing accounts for 37.2% of the variation in tourism performance. The study recommends leveraging content marketing strategies to increase domestic tourism in Nairobi City County’s wildlife parks.

Correlations between dyslipidemia and retinal parameters measured with Angio-OCT in type II diabetics without diabetic retinopathy.

To analyze the relationship between lipoproteins such as total cholesterol, LDL-c, TG, and retinal parameters in patients with DM type II without signs of DR. A case-control study, consisting of 2 groups. A group of 64 patients with type II diabetes without signs of DR and a control group of 24 healthy subjects. Patients with DM type I, those who showed signs of DR, and those who had associated other eye diseases were excluded. The patients of the two studied groups had a similar average age: 65 years in the DM type II group and 64 years in the control group. In the group with DM, the average CRT was 241.31 µm, a significantly lower value compared to the control group, 252.51. The average value of DVFC was 19.19%, in patients with DM and 24.29% in the control group. An indirect correlation with moderate intensity was established between total cholesterol and CRT, (rs=-0.442, p≤0.001), thus it tended to decrease as total cholesterol increased. With increasing total cholesterol level, DVFC had a mild tendency to decrease (rs=-0.381, p≤0.001). An indirect correlation, but weak in intensity, existed between the LDL/HDL ratio and the DVFC S value (rs=-0.240, p=0.001). Central retinal thickness and central vascular density of the superficial capillary plexus were significantly lower in patients with type II diabetes, compared to control subjects. Total cholesterol had higher values in the DM group and an indirect correlation was established with CRT and DVFC, these having a moderate tendency to decrease as the total cholesterol values increased. An indirect and moderate relationship in intensity was also present between LDL and retinal parameters studied. These results were similar to those of other studies conducted, such as that of Chen et al. or Bernaous et al., who showed an association between various lipid classes and the frequency of DR. However, other studies, such as Ausdiab, found that this association did not hold. Type II diabetes patients tend to have elevated serum lipid levels compared to normal subjects, but the impact of dyslipidemia on the onset and progression of DR is incompletely elucidated.

Determinants of Participatory Intention in Autism Volunteer Work for Improving Quality of Life of Persons with Autism (PWA) and their Caregivers

Evidence-based psychosocial interventions can enhance communication and social abilities, leading to a favorable effect on the overall welfare and quality of life for individuals with autism and those who care for them. Despite the importance of volunteers in supporting individuals with autism and their families, there is limited research on the factors influencing individuals' decisions to participate in autism-related volunteer work. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the various factors that shape individuals' intentions to participate in volunteer activities related to autism. A cross-sectional study design with a purposive sampling technique was conducted. Data obtained from a survey questionnaire polled ninety-nine university students’ attitudes regarding the factors influencing their participatory intention in autism volunteer work. Descriptive statistics show that the participation intention level among university students was high (M=4.47, SD=0.52). There was a statistically significant strong and moderate relationship between attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, self-efficacy and religiosity toward participation intention. The regression analysis revealed that subjective norms, perceived behavior control and religiosity affected participatory intention. This study provided practical implications for designing and implementing effective interventions and programs to recruit and retain volunteers, as well as to promote positive social change and inclusion for people with autism.

Debt trap dynamics: The moderating role of convenience, financial literacy, and religiosity in credit card usage

In the modern age, the card payment business has flourished in Pakistan. Many multinational and national commercial banks have not only introduced debit cards but also many types of credit cards with distinct payment plans, and they are broadly used as financial instruments in consumer financing. The purpose of this research is to identify the distinctive components that cause credit card debt and how Pakistanis are snared into a debt trap by using credit cards. For this purpose, the study examines the effects of credit card usage (CCU), materialism (M), installment plan (IP), convenience (CONV), religiosity (R), and financial literacy (FL) on a dependent variable, debt trap (DT). Furthermore, the moderation impacts of R, FL, and CONV are tested too. The quantitative research approach and cross-sectional research design were applied. The data was collected from 297 credit card users by using a convenience sampling technique that shows a 79.2 % response rate. The Partial Least Square (PLS)-Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique was employed for data analysis. The Partial Least Square (PLS)-Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) direct effect has shown that CCU, M, IP, CONV, and R have a significant relationship with DT while FL has an insignificant relationship with the DP. In other words, the indirect effect has shown that FL is not significantly moderate in the relationship between R and DT. Likely, CONV does not significantly moderate the relationship between CCU and DP, however; other indirect effects show a significant moderated relationship of all other independent and dependent variables. Most of the moderating effects are supported, therefore the moderating effects are significant contributions. The study findings could help banks and regulatory bodies in launching these types of credit cards which are under shariah complaints about captivating the users to use the credit card without any fear. This research is a pioneer study in the context of the Pakistan banking sector along with three moderators, religiosity, financial literacy, and convenience. Based on the findings of this research, policymakers and financial institutions in Pakistan should consider introducing Shariah-compliant credit cards that align with users' religious beliefs, while promoting financial literacy programs to better educate consumers on responsible credit card usage and debt management, thus preventing them from falling into debt traps.

Relationship between testosterone and cortisol with anthropometric characteristics in professional male soccer players

Pre-season training has been demonstrated to modify the physical fitness and hormone levels in professional soccer players. The present study aimed to analyze the relationships between testosterone and cortisol with anthropometric characteristics in a professional male soccer team after the pre-season period. Fourteen volunteer professional male soccer players participated in this study. Significant decreases in anthropometric characteristics were found. For biochemical measures, cortisol (13) =-5.25, p=.001, d=-.27), testosterone (t (13) =-8.10, p=.001, d=-.65) and C/T ratio (t (13) =-4.07, p=.001, d =-0.2) significantly increased after the pre-season period. Moreover, moderate negative relationships were observed between the percentage of change in body weight, r=0.61, p=.01, body fat percentage, r=.53, p=.04, and testosterone. The present study revealed that the improvements in body composition after intense training in the pre-season period could stimulate anabolic activities such as increases in muscle mass, which is an important result in terms of quality of performance and prevention of injury risk, especially throughout the competitive soccer season. Testosterone and cortisol should be considered for future research as stress and recovery state indicators. In fact, professional soccer staff can use these parameters in combination with other indicators to optimize workloads and avoid overreaching and overtraining. Keywords: Testosterone; cortisol; professional soccer players; performance; physical fitness

Chemical composition of planetary hosts: C, N, and α-element abundances

Accurate atmospheric parameters and chemical composition of planet hosts play a major role in characterising exoplanets and understanding their formation and evolution. Our objective is to uniformly determine atmospheric parameters and chemical abundances of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), oxygen(O), and the alpha -elements, magnesium (Mg) and silicon (Si), along with C/O, N/O and Mg/Si abundance ratios for planet-hosting stars. In this analysis, we aim to investigate the potential links between stellar chemistry and the presence of planets. e tai Observatory telescope. The determination of stellar parameters was based on a standard analysis using equivalent widths and one-dimensional, plane-parallel model atmospheres calculated under the assumption of local thermodynamical equilibrium. The differential synthetic spectrum method was used to uniformly determine the carbon C(C2), nitrogen N(CN), oxygen O I magnesium Mg I, and silicon Si I elemental abundances as well as the C/O, N/O, and Mg/Si ratios. We analysed elemental abundances and ratios in dwarf and giant stars, finding that C/Fe O/Fe and Mg/Fe are lower in metal-rich dwarf hosts; whereas N/Fe is close to the Solar ratio. Giants show smaller scatter in C/Fe and O/Fe and lower than the Solar average C/Fe and C/O ratios. The (C+N+O) abundances increase with Fe/H in giant stars, with a minimal scatter. We also noted an overabundance of Mg and Si in planet-hosting stars, particularly at lower metallicities, and a lower Mg/Si ratio in stars with planets. In giants hosting high-mass planets, nitrogen shows a moderate positive relationship with planet mass. C/O and N/O ratios show moderate negative and positive slopes in giant stars, respectively. The Mg/Si ratio shows a negative correlation with planet mass across the entire stellar sample.

The relationship between changes in pain intensity and functional disability in persistent disabling low back pain during a course of cognitive functional therapy.

Pain relief and reduced disability are both common treatment targets for persistent disabling low back pain (LBP). Cross-sectional studies show a moderate relationship between functional disability and pain intensity, but little is known about the relationship between changes in pain intensity and functional disability over multiple time points. The objective of this study was to investigate the associations between changes in functional disability and pain intensity and whether changes occurred simultaneously or differentially during a course of cognitive functional therapy for people with persistent disabling LBP. Self-reported measures of pain intensity and patient-specific functional disability were collected prior to each treatment session from 40 participants during a 12-week intervention period. Linear mixed modeling was used to assess simultaneous and lagged associations between pain intensity and functional disability over time. Sensitivity analysis using nonparametric subject-specific methods (simulation modeling analysis) was also performed. Thirty-five participants had sufficient data for analysis. Using the linear mixed-model approach, there was evidence of a moderate and simultaneous association between pain intensity and functional disability over time (regression coefficient = 0.56, 95% confidence interval: 0.44-0.68, p < 0.001). Simulation modeling analysis supported weak to mostly strong associations and supported for simultaneous change in pain and disability for the majority of participants (22 of 35, 64%). Changes in pain intensity and functional disability were moderately related across the intervention. Visual inspection of graphs indicated a very close relationship in some individuals and a decoupling of pain intensity and functional disability in others. The changes in pain intensity and functional disability seem to occur simultaneously in most individuals.

What is the link between the dietary inflammatory index and the gut microbiome? A systematic review.

One highlighted pathogenesis mechanism of diseases is the negative impact of pro-inflammatory diets (PD) on the gut microbiome. This systematic review aimed to study the link between dietary inflammatory index (DII), as an indicator of PD, and gut microbiome. A systematic search was done in PubMed and Scopus, adhering to the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis. The assessment of the included studies' quality was performed using the critical appraisal checklist from the Joanna Briggs Institute. Ten articles were included eight cross-sectional, one case-control, and, one cohort study. Seven and three included articles reported a weak and moderate relationship between gut microbiome and DII scores, respectively. DII scores were linked to variety in microbiome composition and diversity/richness. More importantly, anti-inflammatory diets as measured by lower DII scores were linked to a more desirable gut microbiome profile. Prevotella stercorea, Veillonella rogosae, Morganella morganii, Ruminococcus torques, Eubacterium nodatum, Alistipes intestine, Clostridium leptum, Morganellaceae family, Enterobacteriaceae family, and, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron were related to higher DII scores. While, Butyrate-producing bacteria such as Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae families, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, and Akkermansia muciniphila were related to lower DII scores. An anti-inflammatory diet, as measured by a lower DII score, might be linked to variations in the composition and variety of the microbiome. Therefore, the DII score could be useful in microbiota research, however, this possibility needs to be investigated more precisely in future studies.