Non-significant Negative Relationship Research Articles

The Effects of Electronic Health Records on Medical Error Reduction: Extension of the DeLone and McLean Information System Success Model.

Medical errors are becoming a major problem for health care providers and those who design health policies. These errors cause patients' illnesses to worsen over time and can make recovery impossible. For the benefit of patients and the welfare of health care providers, a decrease in these errors is required to maintain safe, high-quality patient care. This study aimed to improve the ability of health care professionals to diagnose diseases and reduce medical errors. Data collection was performed at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital using convenience sampling. In total, 300 health care professionals were given a self-administered questionnaire, including doctors, dentists, pharmacists, physiologists, and nurses. To test the study hypotheses, multiple linear regression was used to evaluate empirical data. In the sample of 300 health care professionals, no significant correlation was found between medical error reduction (MER) and knowledge quality (KQ) (β=.043, P=.48). A nonsignificant negative relationship existed between MER and information quality (IQ) (β=-.080, P=.19). However, a significant positive relationship was observed between MER and electronic health records (EHR; β=.125, 95% CI 0.005-0.245, P=.042). Increasing patient access to medical records for health care professionals may significantly improve patient health and well-being. The effectiveness of health care organizations' operations can also be increased through better health information systems. To lower medical errors and enhance patient outcomes, policy makers should provide financing and support for EHR adoption as a top priority. Health care administrators should also concentrate on providing staff with the training they need to operate these systems efficiently. Empirical surveys in other public and private hospitals can be used to further test the validated survey instrument.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Performance of Quoted Oil and Gas Companies in Nigeria

Justified by the environmental hazards and eco-system disruption in Nigeria, this dissertation investigated the relationship between corporate social responsibility and financial performance of quoted oil and gas companies in Nigeria. The research adopted the ex post facto research design and data was collected from a sample of nine (9) listed oil and gas companies for a period of eleven (11) years from 2010 to 2020. The corporate social responsibility activities of the oil and gas companies in Nigeria were measured against financial performance. The panel least square (PLS) regression estimation technique was used for data analysis. Other statistical/econometric estimation techniques used in the research included: Pearson correlation, Augmented Dick-Fuller (ADF) unit root test, Breusch-Pagan-Godfrey heteroskedasticity and the Hausman test. Findings of the research revealed: a non-significant negative relationship between employees' training activities and return on assets; employees' training activities and return on equity had a negative and significant relationship ;there was a non-significant negative relationship between environmental compliance activities and return on assets; a significant positive relationship between environmental compliance activities and return on equity; a non-significant positive relationship between community development activities and return on assets; a non-significant negative relationship between community development activities and the return on equity. The research thus concluded that costs associated with employees training and environmental compliance activities contribute meaningfully to return equity however, none of the variable are significantly enhance return on assets. Based on the conclusions, it is recommended that: Oil and gas companies conduct a thorough review/audit of their employees' training programs enhance its contribution to financial performance. It is further suggested that oil and gas companies invest more in environmental compliance activities that has the potential to reduce resources expended in environmental remediation programs; community development activities be designed to foster peaceful coexistence between the company and local communities in which the oil and gas companies operate.

Fear of COVID-19, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms and Psychological Well-being: Moderating Role of Harm Avoidance Behaviors among Adults in Lahore, Pakistan

The objective of the study was to investigate the relationship of fear of COVID-19 obsessivecompulsive symptoms, harm avoidance, and psychological well-being among adults, during the pandemic. The study hypothesized that there is a positive association of fear of COVID-19 with obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and a negative association with psychological well-being among adults. Further, harm avoidance is likely to moderate the relationship between fear of COVID-19 with obsessive-compulsive symptoms and the psychological well-being. A correlation research design and non-purposive sampling technique were used to select the sample of men between the age range of 28 and 31 years (N=75, 49.3%) and women between the age range of 32 and 35 years (N=74, 50.7%) were recruited via an online survey. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Analysis showed a significant positive relationship between fear of COVID-19 and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. A non-significant negative relationship emerged between fear of COVID-19 and psychological wellbeing. Moderation analysis was run through PROCESS and the findings indicated that harm avoidance behaviors partially moderate the relationship between fear of COVID-19 and psychological well-being. It is recommended that fear of negative events be considered as a target variable for devising interventions for mental health and well-being in both stressful situations and inclinical practice.

Beyond the Balance Sheet: Analyzing the Relationship between Corporate Governance, Financial Performance, and Stock Prices in Pakistan's Non-Bank Financial Industry

This study explores the complex relationship among corporate governance, financial performance, and stock prices in Pakistan's non-bank financial industry from 2017 to 2021. Employing panel least squares and generalized method of moments for empirical analysis, our research highlights the substantial and positive correlation between stock prices and earnings per share, emphasizing the significance of profits per share. Corporate governance factors, such as board meetings, board size, and board independence, exhibit shaded impacts on stock prices. Board meetings transition from insignificance in static analysis to a negative, substantial association in dynamic analysis. Conversely, board size and board independence remain insignificant, suggesting a limited influence on stock price fluctuations. Institutional ownership emerges as a robust driver, displaying a positive impact in both static and dynamic analyses. In contrast, managerial ownership yields mixed impacts, with static analysis revealing a nonsignificant negative relationship and dynamic analysis unveiling a significant negative association. The study underlines the need to consider both static and dynamic perspectives when evaluating these relationships, highlighting the temporal dynamics and lagged effects in assessing the influence of managerial ownership on stock prices. Additionally, return on assets demonstrates an insignificant impact on stock prices in Pakistan's non-bank financial industry, consistent across both static and dynamic analyses.

Physicochemical parameters and plankton diversity from Lower River Benue, Makurdi

This study was conducted to investigate the abundance and diversity of plankton as well as the physicochemical properties of the Lower Benue River. The survey was carried out at different sites along the river both at Wadata and BSU Water Board. Samples were collected using plankton net into bottles preserved in 5% formalin and then transported to the laboratory for identification, counting and further analysis. A total of 39 plankton were observed out of which 28 (71.79%) were obtained at Wadata and 11 (28.21%) at BSU Water Board. The most abundant of all the species was Arthrospira plantensis which was observed 16 times. The least occurring plankton was the Paramecium species which was observed only once. The species richness at the Wadata location was 7 with a Shannon-Weinner Diversity Index of 1.383 and Evenness of 0.711. The species richness at the BSU Water Board on the other hand was 3 species with the Shannon-Weinner Diversity Index (H) of 0.935 and an Evenness of 0.851. A significant relationship between plankton abundance and sampling location was overserved (χ2 = 19.360; df = 1; p = 0.000). The Physicochemical properties of the Lower Benue River at the respective sampling locations revealed that air, water temperature and dissolved oxygen, had no significant difference observed between them (p>0.05). While pH of the water, electrical conductivity, turbidity and total dissolved solid had significant differences observed between them (p>0.05). A fairly strong non-significant positive relationship was observed between plankton abundance and the pH (r = 0.502; p = 0.389). Electrical conductivity (r = 0.629; p = 0.069) and total dissolved solid (r = 0.461; p = 0.298). On the other hand, a very strong non-significant negative relationship between plankton abundance and air temperature was observed (r = 0.819; p = 0.090). The relationship with turbidity was also negative and strong but they were significantly associated (r = 0.720; p = 0.029). Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) further revealed a very weak non-significant relationship between plankton abundance and dissolved oxygen (r = 0.137; p = 0.747), while it showed no significant relationship with temperature (r = 0.047; p = 0.904).

Comparing minimum number of individuals and abundance from non-invasive DNA sampling and camera trapping in the red fox (Vulpes vulpes)

Applying the most appropriate sampling method is essential for estimating population size. Sampling methods and techniques to estimate abundance may be limited by environmental characteristics, species traits, specific requirements of the techniques, or the economic resources to carry out the sampling. Thus, evaluating multiple sampling methods in monitoring populations is essential for establishing effective conservation strategies. In this study, we compare two of the most commonly used sampling methods with the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) as the type species. On the one hand, we compared the minimum number of individuals (NI) detected by camera trapping, identifying individuals by morphological characteristics with the minimum number of individuals detected by DNA faeces and a set of 16 microsatellites. On the other hand, we estimated abundance by performing an N-mixture model using information from camera-traps to study the relationship between abundance and the minimum number of individuals detected. Results showed that the minimum NI provided by camera trapping was slightly higher than that of DNA faecal genotyping, with 23.66 and 19 individuals, respectively. In addition, abundance and NI detected by camera trapping showed a positive relationship. In contrast, there was a non-significant negative relationship between NI detected by faecal DNA and abundance estimates. Our results suggest using the minimum number of photo-identified individuals as a reliable index to study variation in red fox abundance when other advanced methods cannot be implemented in the study of population size. However, it is necessary to improve the methods of faecal sampling to study the relationship with camera-trap data.

Influence of Stress to Achievement Motivation and SWB: Basis for a CBT-Based Program

The college years are stressful for many students. Their sources of stress include pressure from academic, family problems, and social, emotional, and physical stressors. Lack of ability to withstand stress leads to new behavioral patterns, resulting in further stress and problems. Thus, the student’s failure to resolve problems causes ongoing emotional conflicts that affect their wellbeing and reduce achievement motivation. This study investigated the relationship of stress on achievement motivation and subjective well-being among twenty-two student scholars from the De La Salle University in Manila and Laguna, Philippines. Using quantitative correlational research design, three assessment tools were used to measure the variables: Revised-Achievement Motivation Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale [SWLS], and Positive Affect-Negative Affect Scale [PANAS]. The Stress data was culled from the SAS1000 Course Module containing a Stress Test. Data analysis revealed a nonsignificant and positive relationship between stress and achievement motivation (r=.093; P=.681); a significant negative relationship between stress and satisfaction with life (r=-.474; P=.026), a nonsignificant negative relationship between stress and Positive Affect (r=-.056; P=.805); and a nonsignificant positive relationship between stress and Negative Affect (r= .178; P=.428). Findings showed that the student scholars’ stress is significantly related to satisfaction with life which is the cognitive component of SWB. These data will serve as a basis for developing a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-based program for the Student Scholars.

Association of Long Non-Coding RNA Malat1 with Serum Levels of Interleukin-1 Beta and Vitamin D in Patients with Ischemic Stroke

Background:Previous studies have demonstrated the strong association of inflammatory cytokines and vitamin D (VitD) deficiency and ischemic stroke (IS) pathogenesis. Due to the negative correlation between long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) Malat1 and pro-inflammatory factors we decided to investigate the associations between Malat1 expression with serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and VitD levels in IS patients. Materials and Methods:In this cross-sectional study, 63 IS patients were included. We used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to evaluate the serum levels of VitD and IL-1β. Malat1 expression was evaluated by the real-time polymerase chain reaction test. The associations between Malat1expression with VitD and IL-1β were analysed with linear regression (Stepwise model) and Pearson’s correlation analysis. Results: The Malat1 expression was inversely correlated with stroke severity (r=-0.25, P=0.043). Stepwise regression analysis showed a significant positive relationship between VitD level and Malat1 expression (Beta=0.28, P=0.02), and also showed a non-significant negative relationship between IL-1β and stroke severity. VitD level showed a positive Pearson correlation with Malat1 (r=0.28, P=0.023) and a negative correlation with IL-1β (r=-0.29, P=0.018) while it could not detect a significantly negative correlation with stroke severity. Conclusion: For the first time the associations between Malat1 expression with IL-1β and VitD in IS patients was analyzed. We found a significant positive relationship between VitD and Malat1. This correlation needs to be investigated with a larger sample size to achieve a strong and reliable association between VitD and Malat1.[GMJ.2023;12:e2457]

Association of Long Non-Coding RNA Malat1 with Serum Levels of Interleukin-1 Beta and Vitamin D in Patients with Ischemic Stroke.

Previous studies have demonstrated the strong association of inflammatory cytokines and vitamin D (VitD) deficiency and ischemic stroke (IS) pathogenesis. Due to the negative correlation between long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) Malat1 and pro-inflammatory factors we decided to investigate the associations between Malat1 expression with serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and VitD levels in IS patients. In this cross-sectional study, 63 IS patients were included. We used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to evaluate the serum levels of VitD and IL-1β. Malat1 expression was evaluated by the real-time polymerase chain reaction test. The associations between Malat1expression with VitD and IL-1β were analysed with linear regression (Stepwise model) and Pearson's correlation analysis. The Malat1 expression was inversely correlated with stroke severity (r=-0.25, P=0.043). Stepwise regression analysis showed a significant positive relationship between VitD level and Malat1 expression (Beta=0.28, P=0.02), and also showed a non-significant negative relationship between IL-1β and stroke severity. VitD level showed a positive Pearson correlation with Malat1 (r=0.28, P=0.023) and a negative correlation with IL-1β (r=-0.29, P=0.018) while it could not detect a significantly negative correlation with stroke severity. For the first time the associations between Malat1 expression with IL-1β and VitD in IS patients was analyzed. We found a significant positive relationship between VitD and Malat1. This correlation needs to be investigated with a larger sample size to achieve a strong and reliable association between VitD and Malat1.

English

In order to maintain environmental quality and ensures food security, this study evaluated baseline heavy metal contents in agricultural fields in the Eastern Flank of Mt Cameroon. It specifically (a) determined the physicochemical properties of soils and the heavy metal concentrations; (b) produce geochemical maps for the heavy metals; (c) determined the major factors controlling the distributions of the metals. Twenty composite soil samples were collected and analyzed for their cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Soil texture, pH, and organic matter contents were also assessed. Geochemical maps were produced using the krigging. The concentrations of the metals did not exceed the guideline values for agricultural land but higher concentrations of Cd and Pb were obtained in soils where human activities are denser. From geochemical mapping, noticeable hot-spots of heavy metals were marked at the central (for Mn) and eastern (for Cu) sides. Pearson’s correlation coefficient showed a significant (p<0.05) negative relationship between clay and Cd (r=-0.47) and a non-significant (p>0.05) negative relationship between clay and Pb (r=-0.17. Four principal factors were extracted in the study, explaining 79.86% of the total variance. Most heavy metals concentrations did not exceed threshold values, but there is concern of environmental quality and human security due to continuous anthropogenic inputs. There is the need for proper monitoring of waste disposal and agrochemicals use. Key words: Heavy metals, geochemical maps, environmental quality, human security.

The fisheries and aquaculture sector in Latin America: Exports to East Asia and production.

The Asian giant has agitated foreign trade in Latin America due to easy access to this market, tariff policies, and international agreements. In the face of a globalized world, in the last decade fisheries and aquaculture entrepreneurs of Latin American countries have taken on the challenge of getting their products known at International Fisheries and Aquaculture Exhibition fairs in Asian countries, which has generated an increase in the exportation of their products. Fishing and aquaculture exports are a variable of the economy of each country reflected in the gross domestic product and foreign exchange results. The present research work analyzed the fishing and aquaculture sector through the first difference Generalized Method of Moments estimator to establish the behavior of exports from Latin American countries to Asia, the production of each Latin American country, and the subsequent effect on the economic growth of the fishing and aquaculture sector during the period 2012–2019. The findings of this article suggest the significant positive relationship between output and economic growth, and a non-significant negative relationship between exports to East Asia and the economy.

Functional Feeding Groups of Macrofauna and Detritus Decomposition along a Gradient of Glacial Meltwater Influence in Tropical High-Andean Streams

Tropical Andean glaciers are retreating rapidly, with possible consequences for trophic structure and ecosystem processes in high Andean meltwater streams. Here, we measured the environmental characteristics, quantified pools of particulate organic matter (POM) and periphyton (Chl. a), sampled benthic macroinvertebrates, determined functional feeding groups (FFG), and performed mesh bag decomposition experiments with Calamagrostis grass detritus at 17 stream sites along a gradient of glacial influence (GI) with 0–23% glacier cover in the catchment at 4050–4200 m a.s.l. in the Andes of Ecuador. POM was unrelated to GI while Chl. a. showed a weak (non-significant) negative relationship to GI. The macrofauna abundance decreased while taxon richness and the number of FFGs per site showed a hump-shaped relationship with increasing GI. Taxa with an opportunistic and generalist feeding mode generally dominated benthic assemblages and were related to high GI levels and low Chl. a. Only shredders were negatively related to GI, but unrelated to POM. Decomposition rates were comparable to those found in temperate alpine streams, and for both fine (0.0010–0.0065; median 0.0028 d−1) and coarse (0.0019–0.0088; median 0.0048 d−1) mesh bags, peaked at intermediate GI values, while the difference between bag types was small and almost constant along the GI gradient. This indicates an overall minor effect of macroinvertebrate shredders compared to that of microbes, in particular at high GI. It also suggests that the relatively high average temperature of these high-altitude equatorial streams (7–10 °C) does not produce higher decomposition rates than those in comparable but colder streams at temperate latitudes. The results suggest that, at the lower end of glacier cover, tropical glacier loss will not change the dominant microbial role in detritus decomposition, but that part of the physical abrasion could be partially replaced by biological shredding.

Covid-19 Adherence To Physical Activity Guidelines Moderates The Mental Health/toughness Relationship On Black/hispanic Females.

Physical activity (PA) improves mental health (MH). Mental toughness (MT) positively correlates to MH. Only 45% of Hispanics and Blacks over 18 years and less than 40% of US females meet the ACSM PA guidelines. PA has been decreasing during the COVID-19. PURPOSE: Investigate during the pandemic the effect of PA adherence on the MT-MH relationship on previously physically active, Black and Hispanic females. METHODS: Fifteen females (age 21.3 ± 3.6 yr), six Hispanic and nine Black, who met the ACSM guidelines before the pandemic, completed the Mental Health Continuum and Mental Toughness Index inventories, while reporting their PA habits during the pandemic. Data analyzed with double moderation model-2 (MH=Y; MT = X). PA habits and race were the moderators. MT centered for product construction and heteroscedasticity consistent error. Moderation and conditioning significance set at p < 0.05. Analyses performed using SPSS©, PROCESS© v.3 by Hayes. RESULTS: Model significantly predicted MH (F5,9 = 8.9, p = .003, R2 = .7). MT significantly predicted MH (b = 11.0, t9 = 3.3, p = .009). Significant MTxPA interaction (F1,9 = 19.0, p = .002, ΔR2 = .3). PA, race, and MTxRace interaction did not predict MH. Hispanics and Blacks, who met the PA guidelines before but not during, presented significant positive relationship between MT and MH (b = 2.9, t9 = 3.7, p = .005; b = 3.5, t9 = 5.4, p = .0004, respectively), with Blacks to better predict MH. Hispanics, who met the PA guidelines both before and during the pandemic, presented non-significant negative relationship between MT and MH (b = -.3, t9 = -.3, p = .8) having the worst prediction for MH. Blacks retained a positive non-significant relationship between MT and MH (b = .4, t9 = .6, p = .6) with a weak MH prediction. CONCLUSIONS: Results infer a buffering (Black) and an antagonistic (Hispanic) moderating effect on the MT-MH relationship on previously physically-active females. This preliminary evidence suggests that adhering to PA guidelines during the pandemic would decrease the effect of MT on MH (less positive) in Black females and reverse the effect of MT on MH (becomes negative) in Hispanic females. Possible explanations include different response to the additional stress of PA due to cultural differences. Larger-scale studies are needed to examine the mechanistic explanation of this observation.

The relationship between job components, neighbourhood walkability and African academics' physical activity: a post-COVID-19 context.

Research to date suggests that physical activity (PA) among academics is insufficient globally. Academics in many African countries were recently required to resume work while observing social distancing protocols. Physical inactivity (PI) was, therefore, expected to increase in such academics. Interestingly, walkable neighbourhoods are resources that could discourage excessive sitting and PI in this situation. This study, therefore, assessed the moderating role of neighbourhood walkability in the relationship between core job components (i.e. on-site teaching, online teaching, research and student assessment) and PA among academics. The study adopted a cross-sectional design that utilized an online survey hosted by Google Forms to gather data. Participants were volunteer full-time academics in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Tanzania. A total of 1064 surveys were analysed, with a sensitivity analysis utilized to select covariates for the ultimate hierarchical linear regression model. After controlling for the ultimate covariates (e.g. gender, education and income), PA was found to be positively associated with the job component 'research work’ but negatively associated with student assessment. Neighbourhood walkability increased the positive relationship of research work with PA and reduced the negative relationship of student assessment with PA. The non-significant negative relationship between ‘teaching online’ and PA was made positively significant by neighbourhood walkability. We conclude that research as a job component is positively associated with PA, but online teaching is negatively associated with PA among African academics in a post-COVID-19 context.

Do pricing efficiencies in Indian equity ETF market impact its performance?

We examine the pricing efficiency of domestic exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the Indian equity market where growth co-exists with operating inefficiencies. The ETFs, on average, outperform their fund benchmarks, but the magnitudes of the premium (discount) and tracking error are considerably higher for a synchronously traded market. Among the ETF categories based on fund benchmarks, thematic and broad market ETFs have higher tracking errors and discounts than strategy and sectoral ETFs. We find a nonsignificant negative relationship between discount and redemption units, implying that the creation/redemption process remains unaffected by the prevailing discount in the market. Despite low arbitrage constraints, market participants fail to curtail the prevailing tracking error and discount. This study highlights the operational constraints of arbitrageurs in the Indian ETF market.

Management accounting systems effectiveness, perceived environmental uncertainty and enterprise risk management: evidence from Jordan

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the direct relationship between management accounting systems effectiveness (MASE) and enterprise risk management (ERM). In addition, it aims to investigate the interaction (moderating) effect of each of the four informational characteristics of MASE and each of the three components of perceived environmental uncertainty (PEU) on ERM, using empirical evidence from the developing country's Jordanian market.Design/methodology/approachThe study population includes all Jordanian companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange at the end of 2019, and the study sample consists of all these companies (complete surveying – census population). This study chooses a quantitative method through a survey design approach using questionnaire as the best method for data collection.FindingsThe summation of the relationship and interaction effects (moderation) examined by this study are as follows: three of the four informational characteristics of MASE, namely, a broadness of scope, an aggregation and an integration, have a positive direct relationship with ERM. The characteristic ‘timeliness’ has non-significant negative relationship with ERM. Additionally, the interaction (moderating) effect of higher levels of two informational characteristics of MASE, namely, a timeliness and an aggregation and higher level of perceived competitor uncertainty, will result in a higher ERM implementation.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of this study have significant ramifications for numerous companies, administrators and interested parties, as they may allow them to build and sustain effective accounting processes for management. These results support adopting sophisticated management accounting systems (MASs) instead of traditional systems in the companies to help them in improving the information quality and control levels, as well as reducing the risks by implementation of ERM. In addition, to ensure that companies are confronted with the environmental factors they face. The results of the present study will enable administrators to develop a deeper understanding of such management accounting systems.Originality/valueTo the best of the knowledge, this is the first study of Jordan to investigate the relationship between MASE and ERM, moderated by PEU. As such, the study raises significant findings, drawing attention to MASs and their role in Jordan.

Modeling the relationship between malaria prevalence and insecticide-treated bed net coverage in Nigeria using a Bayesian spatial generalized linear mixed model with a Leroux prior

OBJECTIVESTo evaluate malaria transmission in relation to insecticide-treated net (ITN) coverage in Nigeria.METHODSWe used an exploratory analysis approach to evaluate variation in malaria transmission in relation to ITN distribution in 1,325 Demographic and Health Survey clusters in Nigeria. A Bayesian spatial generalized linear mixed model with a Leroux conditional autoregressive prior for the random effects was used to model the spatial and contextual variation in malaria prevalence and ITN distribution after adjusting for environmental variables.RESULTSSpatial smoothed maps showed the nationwide distribution of malaria and ITN. The distribution of ITN varied significantly across the 6 geopolitical zones (p<0.05). The North-East had the least ITN distribution (0.196±0.071), while ITN distribution was highest in the South-South (0.309±0.075). ITN coverage was also higher in rural areas (0.281±0.074) than in urban areas (0.240±0.096, p<0.05). The Bayesian hierarchical regression results showed a non-significant negative relationship between malaria prevalence and ITN coverage, but a significant spatial structured random effect and unstructured random effect. The correlates of malaria transmission included rainfall, maximum temperature, and proximity to water.CONCLUSIONSReduction in malaria transmission was not significantly related to ITN coverage, although much could be achieved in attempts to curtail malaria transmission through enhanced ITN coverage. A multifaceted and integrated approach to malaria control is strongly advocated.

The timing of spring migration in trans-Saharan migrants: a comparison between Ottenby, Sweden and Capri, Italy

Some migratory birds have advanced their spring arrival to Northern Europe, possibly by increasing the speed of migration through Europe in response to increased temperature en route. In this paper we compare the phenology of spring arrival of seven trans-Saharan migrants along their migration route and test for patterns indicating that migration speed varied over the season using long-term data collected on the Italian island of Capri and at Ottenby Bird Observatory, Sweden. There was a linear relationship between median arrival dates on Capri and at Ottenby. The slope was not significantly different from one. On average, the seven species arrived 15 days later at Ottenby compared to Capri. There was a (non-significant) negative relationship between the species-specific arrival dates at Capri and the differences in median arrival dates between Capri and Ottenby, possibly indicating a tendency towards faster migration through Europe later in the season. To what extent different species are able to speed up their migration to benefit from the advancement of spring events is unknown.

DETERMINATION THE EFFECT OF IRON OVERLOAD ON VITAMIN D AND THE PERCENTAGE OF EACH BLOOD GROUPS IN PATIENTS WITH THALASSEMIA

Thalassemia can be characterized as hereditary erythrocyte abnormalities resulting from the defect in the synthesis of the hemoglobin globin chain that leads to microcytic hypochromic anemia. This study aimed to find some relationship between the ABO system and thalassemia disease and to determine the relationship between ferritin and vitamin D in patients with thalassemia. This study estimated the level of Hb, ferritin, and vitamin D and also calculated the percentage of ABO blood types in thalassemia and non-thalassemia patients (control group). This study was conducted with 60 samples, 20 for the control group, and 40 for patients with thalassemia. The age of patients with thalassemia and controls ranged from 2 to 29 years. This study found a correlation between ferritin and vitamin D. The results demonstrated a significant reduction (p 0.05) of Hb and vitamin D, but a significant increase (p 0.05) in the concentration of ferritin. The study also found a nonsignificant negative relationship (p 0.05) between the level of ferritin and vitamin D. It was demonstrated that blood group O is more present in thalassemia patients (40%) whereas groups A, B, and AB, respectively, are present in 23%, 28%, 10% of patients. It can be concluded that patients with thalassemia are more frequent with blood type O followed by type B and, less frequently, blood type AB. Thalassemia, vitamin D, ferritin, ABO blood group system.

Maltrato físico e inteligencia emocional en niños y niñas de una institución educativa, Huancavelica

Objetivo. Determinar la relación entre el maltrato físico y la inteligencia emocional en niños y niñas de una institución Educativa de Huancavelica. Métodos.Investigación de tipo observacional, correlacional, transversal; se tomó una muestra de 48 niños(as), entre 10 y 13 años; se utilizaron la técnica psicométrica, la entrevista semiestructurada y la escala de Likert. Resultados. El tipo de maltrato físico se evidencian con el uso del jalón de orejas, golpes con correa, golpes con la mano o cachetadas, patadas, golpes con chicote, con palo o con soga, pellizcos y empujones. La madre apareció como la principal agresora, seguido de padres y hermanos. El maltrato fue severo en un 24 %, moderado en un 21 % y leve en un 13 %. Las niñas fueron las menos maltratadas en comparación con los niños. No hubo diferencias significativas por nivel de maltrato respecto al manejo del estrés, de una adecuada a atípica capacidad; respecto al estado de ánimo, las víctimas de maltrato mostraron una baja a deficiente capacidad, siendo en primer lugar el moderado, seguido del severo y, por último, el leve. Conclusión. Existe relación negativa baja o no significativa (rs = -0,156, p &gt; 0,05) entre el maltrato físico y la inteligencia emocional, al encontrarse una inteligencia emocional de adecuada a alta, independiente del nivel de maltrato físico.