Correlation Coefficient Analysis Research Articles

Comparison of whole-blood sirolimus concentrations measured by EMIT-based Siemens Viva-ProE® System and LC-MS/MS in Chinese transplant patients

Sirolimus (SRL) is commonly used in transplant patients to prevent organ transplant rejection. The current guidelines recommend to perform SRL therapeutic drug monitoring regularly to improve treatment outcomes and avoid adverse effects. Consequently, a precise and accurate method for determining SRL is crucial in clinical practice. Currently, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and immunoassays have been widely adopted for determining SRL concentrations. However, previous studies have shown that immunoassays exhibit a positive bias compared to LC-MS/MS. As the new updated version of the EMIT-based Viva-E® System (SVPS), this study aims to compare SRL blood concentrations measured by the SVPS and LC-MS/MS. The residual whole-blood samples obtained from transplant patients were simultaneously analyzed using the SVPS and LC-MS/MS, respectively. The correlation between the two assays was analyzed using the linear regression analysis and Deming linear regression. The Pearson correlation coefficient and Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis were executed. The Paired Wilcoxon test and Bland-Altman analysis were performed to assess the concordance between the two methods. The SVPS considerably increased SRL concentration value by 46.62 % as compared to the LC-MS/MS method. When SRL concentrations measured by the SVPS were above 4.0 ng/mL, there was no significant difference between the corrected SVPS concentrations after using the Deming linear regression equation, indicating their interchangeability. Given the significant disparities observed between EMIT and LC-MS/MS, it is crucial to indicate the methodology and instruments in both TDM reports and future clinical guidelines. Our study also provides the conversion formulas between the SVPS and LC-MS/MS, which can be applied as a reference for different clinical centers.

Reproducible and high sample throughput isomiR next-generation sequencing for cancer diagnosis.

e15013 Background: Next-generation sequencing (NGS) can produce up to 6 Tb of data per run with single-nucleotide accuracy, making it ideal for quantifying isomiRs, which encompass both canonical miRNAs and their variants, for clinical applications. However, NGS has poor reproducibility and low sample throughput in quantifying circulating isomiRs due to significant technical variations and the limitations of the multiplex strategy, as evidenced by the fact that no isomiR NGS technique has been successfully used to diagnose cancer. Methods: To address these challenges, a library construction method including a dual unique-dual-index (DUDI) technology was developed. DUDI uses a pair of Inner UDI (IUDI) and outer UDI (OUDI) to label a sample. Twelve independent batches of isomiR NGS were carried out, including three repeated batches. Each batch included 100 gastric cancer and 100 control plasma samples. Batch effect, correlation coefficient (R), and principal component (PCA) analyses were used to evaluate technical reproducibility. Machine learning binary classification was used to assess biological reproducibility, with each pair of batch data serving interchangeably as both training and testing data. Results: In this multicenter study, over 700G of isomiR data were generated from 402 gastric cancer and 498 control samples, with a maximum error rate of 1 in 7 million isomiRs being assigned to wrong samples. The PCA plot indicates high technical reproducibility across the three repeated batches, shown by the extensive intermingling of data points from each batch and the lack of distinct batch-wise clustering. This observation is reinforced by that the R value for each of 239 isomiRs between the repeated batches are close to 1. While the mutual machine learning validations between the repeated batches yielded ~95% accuracy, indicating high biological reproducibility. The accuracies of the validations between the different batches of different samples range from 70% to 82%. The lower accuracy is as expected, given the high genetic heterogeneity of cancer and the small sample size. Furthermore, the IsomiR differentiated expression profiles from the current NGS study closely match those from prior qPCR studies. Conclusions: The DUDI library construction method can produce reproducible high sample throughput NGS data, yet it is cost-effective and straightforward. The maximum number of samples that can be multiplexed in an NGS project is almost one million, i.e., 976 * 976, as IUDI and OUDI can be any of the 976 designed DUDIs. This number far exceeds the high sample throughput requirements of any NGS application. While the capability to distinguish true biological variations of IsomiRs from technical noise, demonstrated by the high technical and biological reproducibility and concordance with the qPCR data, enables the development of robust machine learning algorithms for cancer diagnostics.

Correlation and path coefficient analysis in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Under timely and late sown conditions

Correlation and path coefficient analysis in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Under timely and late sown conditions

Positive associations of active immune therapy OBI-833/OBI-821 induced immune responses with clinical outcomes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

e14671 Background: OBI-833/OBI-821 (OBI-833) is a novel active immune therapy (cancer vaccine) targeting a tumor-associated carbohydrate antigen, Globo H. Previous reports have shown that OBI-833 can elicit a beneficial immune response in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) patients and rendered durable stable disease with some TKI-treated patients. In this study, we further evaluated the effect of OBI-833-induced immune responses on the in-study progression-free survivals (isPFS) during the treatment. Methods: Sera were collected for the evaluations of maximum concentration (Cmax) and exposure (area under the curve: AUC) of anti-Globo H IgM (GH IgM) and IgG (GH IgG), complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), and ex-vivo GH IgM induction with PBMC from each subject at baseline. The correlations of OBI-833-induced immune responses with isPFS and best overall response (BOR) were also evaluated. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis was used for all correlation evaluations. Results: Among the 14 OBI-833-treated subjects, 93% and 64% of subjects had significant increase in GH IgM and GH IgG, respectively. Median Cmax GH IgM and Cmax GH IgG were 13.8 µg/mL and 12.4 µg/mL, respectively. While the increase in CDC activities was not significantly correlated with the increase of GH IgM, a weak association between GH IgG and ADCC was observed (r=0.3380, p<0.0001). In addition, a strong association (r=0.84) was observed between Ex-vivo IFN-γ secreting and their Cmax IgM concentration in the OBI-833 Ex-vivo stimulation study. In contrast, weak association (r=0.26) was observed between Ex-vivo GH IgM induction and their Cmax of IgM. Correlations of the immune responses on isPFS were further analyzed. Significant positive correlations were observed for the Cmax and AUC of GH IgM with isPFS (Cmax: r=0.6345, p=0.0148; AUC: r=0.8212, p=0.0003) and the Cmax and AUC of GH IgG with isPFS (Cmax: r=0.7192, p=0.0037; AUC: r=0.6306, p=0.0062). Furthermore, distinct features of GH IgG responses from 2 subjects were identified based on the ADCC-GH IgG scatter plot. Samples from subject 034-006 showed high ADCC activity with relatively low GH IgG concentration, whereas the BOR was at -27%, which has significant negative correlation of tumor response (TR) with GH IgG (r=-0.7381, p=0.0148) and ADCC (r=-0.8565, p=0.0016). In contrast, samples from subject 034-004 showed average ADCC activity and relatively high GH IgG concentration with BOR at -12%, showing a negative correlation of TR with GH IgG (r=-0.8352, p=0.0001) and ADCC (r=-0.5690, p=0.0269). Conclusions: OBI-833 can elicit beneficial immune responses in NSCLC patients. Both GH IgM and GH IgG may contribute to the isPFS and TR of the subjects. Further development of OBI-833 in EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients phase II trial is ongoing.

Machine learning-guided accelerated discovery of structure-property correlations in lean magnesium alloys for biomedical applications

Magnesium alloys are emerging as promising alternatives to traditional orthopedic implant materials thanks to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and impressive mechanical characteristics. However, their rapid in-vivo degradation presents challenges, notably in upholding mechanical integrity over time. This study investigates the impact of high-temperature thermal processing on the mechanical and degradation attributes of a lean Mg-Zn-Ca-Mn alloy, ZX10. Utilizing rapid, cost-efficient characterization methods like X-ray diffraction and optical microscopy, we swiftly examine microstructural changes post-thermal treatment. Employing Pearson correlation coefficient analysis, we unveil the relationship between microstructural properties and critical targets (properties): hardness and corrosion resistance. Additionally, leveraging the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), we pinpoint the dominant microstructural factors among closely correlated variables. Our findings underscore the significant role of grain size refinement in strengthening and the predominance of the ternary Ca2Mg6Zn3 phase in corrosion behavior. This suggests that achieving an optimal blend of strength and corrosion resistance is attainable through fine grains and reduced concentration of ternary phases. This thorough investigation furnishes valuable insights into the intricate interplay of processing, structure, and properties in magnesium alloys, thereby advancing the development of superior biodegradable implant materials.

Multi-channel deterioration trend prediction of pumping storage unit based on temporal graph convolution network

Abstract The safe and stable operation of pumped storage units is related to the integrity of the power grid, and it is necessary to study the prediction of unit deterioration trends. Traditional degradation trend prediction methods are mostly for single channel, without considering the interaction between different channels of the shaft system. Therefore, a multi-channel degradation trend prediction model for pumped storage units shaft system is proposed. Firstly, the healthy model is obtained by constructing the mapping relationship between the working parameters and the swing of the shaft system through the fully connected network. Secondly, the deterioration trend sequence of each channel is calculated based on the historical monitoring data of each channel of the unit shaft system and the corresponding healthy model. Finally, the correlation coefficient analysis method is used to calculate the correlation between each channel, and the temporality of the degradation sequence of each channel and the correlation between channels are learned through the spatio-temporal graph convolutional network to realize the prediction of multi-channel degradation trends. The proposed model is verified by using the data of a pumped storage power station. The results show that the proposed model can accurately predict the multi-channel deterioration trend.

Physiological Biomarkers for Assessment of Pain during Routine Blood Tests for Older Adults with Dementia in Long-Term Residential Care

ObjectiveEvaluating pain in individuals with dementia can be difficult when verbal communication is limited. Vocalization has emerged as a potential avenue for assessments of pain in nonverbal populations. This study aimed to evaluate if physiological assessments of vocalization were correlated with observational assessments of pain during routine blood tests for persons with dementia. DesignA cross-sectional descriptive study. Setting and ParticipantsSixty older adults (aged ≥65 years old) with dementia requiring routine finger puncture and peripheral venipuncture for routine blood tests were recruited by purposive sampling from 3 long-term care facilities in Taiwan. MethodsObservational assessments were conducted with the Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) instrument; physiological biomarkers of vocalization were assessed with a noninvasive sensing device and microphone (NISDM). Assessments were conducted simultaneously in one session during situations of increasing pain levels: at rest, making a sound, finger puncture, and peripheral venipuncture. PAINAD scores were compared with signal recording measures from the NISDM. Analysis of variance and Pearson correlation coefficient assessed correlations between observational and physiological measures. ResultsMost participants were female (63.3%); mean age was 81.27 years (SD = 9.69); Clinical Dementia Rating was 2.23 ± 0.70; and Mini-Mental State Examination was 7.07 ± 6.95. Signal recording measures using the NISDM during finger puncture and venipuncture were significantly greater compared with measures at rest and making sound, indicating higher signal levels were associated with pain. PAINAD scores were significantly correlated with physiological measures for vocalization variables of sound amplitude (r = 0.49, P < .001), shimmer (r = 0.63, P < .001), and inhalation-to-exhalation amplitude ratio (r = 0.48, P < .001). Conclusions and ImplicationsElevated vocalizations detected with the NISDM were correlated with increased pain scores on the PAINAD instrument. Physiological measures of pain using novel vocalization biomarkers have the potential to enhance the quality of care for individuals with dementia and limited communication abilities.

Empowerment Dynamics: Exploring the Impact of Self-Help Groups on Rural Women

Purpose: This study aims to examine how Social Empowerment (SE) and Economic Empowerment (EE) affect Total Empowerment (TE) among women, using an ordinal regression method. The research seeks to explore the relationship between these dimensions of empowerment and their combined impact on women's overall empowerment. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study utilizes a quantitative research methodology, incorporating both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data are gathered via a structured questionnaire distributed to members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Kottayam District, Kerala. Secondary data are sourced from existing literature and financial reports. To analyze the data and examine the relationships between variables, statistical methods such as Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, ordinal regression, and Spearman's correlation coefficient analysis are utilized. Findings/Result: The results indicate that both Social Empowerment (SE) and Economic Empowerment (EE) are significant predictors of Total Empowerment (TE) among women. The ordinal regression model demonstrates a strong association between SE, EE, and TE, highlighting the importance of addressing both social and economic dimensions for women's empowerment. Additionally, strong positive correlations are observed between TE and SE, TE and EE, and SE and EE, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these empowerment dimensions. Originality/Value: This research enhances the existing literature by offering insights into the multifaceted nature of women's empowerment, especially within the context of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). By examining the impact of SE and EE on TE and exploring their interrelationships, the study offers valuable understanding of the factors driving overall empowerment outcomes among women. The findings highlight the necessity of simultaneously addressing both social and economic empowerment to improve women's well-being and socio-economic status. Paper Type: Empirical Research.

A Retrospective Database Analysis to Investigate if Electrolytes in Venous Blood are Equivalent to the Levels in Arterial Blood.

In a critically ill patient, when an arterial blood sample is processed on an arterial blood gas (ABG) analyzer, it also measures electrolytes apart from analyzing the blood gases. The turnaround time for ABG analysis is way too less compared to the conventional electrolyte analysis with a serum sample. This study intends to investigate whether values of electrolytes estimated in arterial blood can substitute the routinely practiced method. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study. The source of data is patients' reports of serum electrolytes and ABG analysis from the Clinical Biochemistry laboratory, CIMS Teaching Hospital, Chamarajanagar between January and June 2021. The electrolytes report of 200 patients from whom both arterial and venous blood samples were sent to the Clinical Biochemistry laboratory on the same day and at the same time for analysis were selected. The data was compiled, compared, and correlated using a suitable statistical tool. The mean and standard deviation of sodium (135.62 ± 5.20 in venous vs 134.08 ± 8.49 in arterial blood), potassium (4.20 ± 0.64 vs 3.80 ± 0.75), and chloride (102.28 ± 4.99 vs 96.33 ± 8.11) were observed. However, when the concordance correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman plot analysis were made there was no agreement between electrolytes analyzed on serum in an autoanalyzer with that of ABG analyzer. We conclude that the electrolytes measured by a conventional autoanalyzer on a serum sample cannot be replaced by values analyzed on a blood gas analyzer. Devaki RN, Kasargod P, Roopa Urs AN, Chandrika N. A Retrospective Database Analysis to Investigate if Electrolytes in Venous Blood are Equivalent to the Levels in Arterial Blood. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(5):442-446.

Effect of LncRNA LOC106505926 on myogenesis and Lipogenesis of porcine primary cells

BackgroundSkeletal muscle development and fat deposition have important effects on meat quality. The study of regulating skeletal muscle development and fat deposition is of great significance in improving the quality of carcass and meat. In the present study, whole transcriptome sequencing (including RNA-Seq and miRNA-Seq) was performed on the longissimus dorsi muscle (LDM) of Jinfen White pigs at 1, 90, and 180 days of age.ResultsThe results showed that a total of 245 differentially expressed miRNAs were screened in any two comparisons, which may be involved in the regulation of myogenesis. Among them, compared with 1-day-old group, miR-22-5p was significantly up-regulated in 90-day-old group and 180-day-old group. Functional studies demonstrated that miR-22-5p inhibited the proliferation and differentiation of porcine skeletal muscle satellite cells (PSCs). Pearson correlation coefficient analysis showed that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) LOC106505926 and CXXC5 gene had strong negative correlations with miR-22-5p. The LOC106505926 and CXXC5 were proven to promote the proliferation and differentiation of PSCs, as opposed to miR-22-5p. In terms of mechanism, LOC106505926 functions as a molecular sponge of miR-22-5p to modulate the expression of CXXC5, thereby inhibits the differentiation of PSCs. In addition, LOC106505926 regulates the differentiation of porcine preadipocytes through direct binding with FASN.ConclusionsCollectively, our results highlight the multifaceted regulatory role of LOC106505926 in controlling skeletal muscle and adipose tissue development in pigs and provide new targets for improving the quality of livestock products by regulating skeletal muscle development and fat deposition.

Vertebral Bone Density Variations in Scoliotic vs. Non-Scoliotic Juveniles, and Its Implications for Schmorl’s Node Development: A CT-Based Analysis Using the New Mexico Decedent Image Database

Scoliosis, characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, is predominantly idiopathic, underscoring the need to delve into its underlying causes for effective treatment and preventive strategies. This study investigates a potential correlation between scoliosis and Schmorl’s nodes (intervertebral disc herniations) influenced by Wolff’s law, which posits that bones adapt to external pressures. We analyzed CT scans from 108 juvenile decedents, including 56 with scoliosis and 52 without. After running multiple statistical tests, there was no significance between the mean bone density when compared to having scoliosis. An independent t-test provided a t-value of 0.041, which, when compared to the original significance level of 0.05, is statistically significant, although weak. When compared to the Bonferroni correction level of 0.008, it throws out the significance to give a result of not being statistically significant. It was the same in the cases of L3 (t = 0.103), L2 (t = 0.084), and L1 (t = 0.053). If compared to the regular significance level of 0.05, T12 (t = 0.012) and T11 (t = 0.042) had weak significance, but that was then excluded when the Bonferroni correction was applied. When looking at any significance of densities in different vertebral regions, the results from a one-way ANOVA (p-value = 0.213) suggest that it is likely that the results are due to random variability or chance, and that there is no statistical significance. With a value of 0.273 from a Chi-squared (χ2)/Fisher’s exact test, it suggests that there is no statistically significant correlation or difference between the variables of scoliosis and Schmorl’s nodes. The general pattern seems to follow that as the spine ascends, the density increases, and this is true in both scoliotic and non-scoliotic individuals. As a whole, it is evident that those with scoliosis have a lower vertebral density than those without, in all of the vertebral regions. There is, however, a weak negative linear relationship between bone density and age in both scoliotic and non-scoliotic individuals. A p-value of −0.229 obtained from a Pearson correlation coefficient analysis in non-scoliotic individuals, as well as a p-value of −0.069 in scoliotic individuals, was obtained. Overall, the findings of this study are comparable to some existing studies on similar topics, but there are few results that hold statistical significance and so this would be interesting to research further, potentially using a different dataset or a larger sample size that is more representative.

Evaluation of Rural Healing Landscape DESIGN Based on Virtual Reality and Electroencephalography

From the user’s perspective, emotional elements are increasingly being used in design. Researchers have indicated that healing landscapes in rural areas play a positive role in soothing human emotions. In this study, a landscape with healing functions was designed, and 32 subjects experienced emotions in a virtual reality (VR) scene while their 32-channel electroencephalography (EEG) signals were collected. This study compared the brain responses with and without the presence of healing landscape elements and conducted correlation coefficient analysis using eight different regression prediction models to examine the relationship between security, comfort, positivity, and corresponding healing landscape elements. The results show significant improvements in emotions of security, comfort, and positivity post-exposure to the landscape design, especially with certain elements, such as seating, shrubs, and tree pools. EEG data indicate enhanced emotional and cognitive states, particularly relaxation, with increased activity in specific brain regions. The decision tree regression model is the most suitable for our data. It reveals strong correlations between specific healing landscape elements and emotional responses. In the comfort category, “shrubs” show the highest correlation (R² = 0.82), while in the security category, “trees” have the highest correlation (R² = 0.77). Similarly, in the positivity category, “trees” again exhibit the highest correlation (R² = 0.71) with EEG data, indicating their significant impact on these emotional dimensions. This study demonstrates the importance of using scientific methods, such as EEG technology, to validate the principles of emotional design and also underscores the role of green environments in enhancing psychological health and emotional comfort.

Correlation between the radial artery resistance index and the systemic vascular resistance index: a cross-sectional study.

Ultrasound measurement of the radial resistance index (RRI) in the anatomical snuffbox has been proposed as a useful method for assessing the systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI). This study aims to establish the correlation between SVRI measured by pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) and RRI. A cross-sectional study included all consecutive patients undergoing postoperative (POP) cardiac surgery with hemodynamic monitoring using PAC. Hemodynamic assessment was performed using PAC, and RRI was measured with ultrasound in the anatomical snuffbox. The Pearson correlation test was used to establish the correlation between RRI and SVRI measured using PAC. Hemodynamic behavior concerning RRI with a cutoff point of 1.1 (described to estimate under SVRI) was examined. Additionally, consistency between two evaluators was assessed for RRI using the intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman analysis. A total of 35 measurements were obtained. The average cardiac index (CI) was 2.73 ± 0.64L/min/m², and the average SVRI was 1967.47 ± 478.33 dyn·s·m²/cm5. The correlation between RRI and SVRI measured using PAC was 0.37 [95% CI 0.045-0.62]. The average RRI was 0.94 ± 0.11. RRI measurements > 1.1 had a mean SVRI of 2120.79 ± 673.48 dyn·s·m²/cm5, while RRI measurements ≤ 1.1 had a mean SVRI of 1953.1 ± 468.17 dyn·s·m²/cm5 (p = 0.62). The consistency between evaluators showed an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.88 [95% CI 0.78-0.93], and Bland-Altman analysis illustrated adequate agreement of RRI evaluators. For patients in cardiac surgery POP, the correlation between the SVRI measured using PAC and the RRI measured in the anatomical snuffbox is low. Using the RRI as a SVRI estimator for patients is not recommended in this clinical scenario.

Natural occurrence, infection dynamics, and molecular characterization of nucleopolyhedrovirus (SpfrNPV) infecting fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) from maize ecosystems in Gujarat, India

This comprehensive study investigates the stage-wise infection dynamics of Nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) in fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) larvae across distinct stages of maize crop in Panchmahal and Mahisagar districts of Gujarat, India during the kharif season in 2021. The examination of month-wise mean data reveals a pronounced pattern of NPV prevalence, with the highest infection observed during the cob formation stage (28.74 %), followed by flowering and tasseling (20.23 %), and the vegetative stage (13.93 %). Block specific analyses highlight variations in infection rates, with notable differences between districts and stages. Correlation coefficient analysis indicates a significant and positive relationship between specific crop stages and NPV infection. Regression equations are established, demonstrating a positive increase in natural NPV infection during different crop stages. Weather parameter analysis reveals significant correlations between temperature, humidity, sunshine hours, and NPV infection. The phylogenetic analysis of NPV polyhedrin sequences indicates species-specific clustering within S. frugiperda and a broader genus-specific association. Motif pattern analysis identifies conserved motifs in NPV polyhedrins. Protein structure predictions and Molecular docking studies predicted interactions between polyhedrin and chitinase, suggesting a potential role in the insect's defense against NPV. The bioassay results indicated increased susceptibility of early larvae to NPV, emphasizing the potential for optimizing biocontrol strategies. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights into the ecological and molecular aspects of NPV infection dynamics, offering a significance understanding for developing effective pest management strategies and also underscores its significance in promoting sustainable agriculture.

Pengaruh Kualitas Produk dan Promosi terhadap Keputusan Pembelian pada Kedai Kopi Melati Ciputat

This study aims to determine the influence of promotion and product quality on the purchase decision of Kedai Kopi Melati products. The method used is a quantitative descriptive method with an associative approach. The sampling technique used is Probability Sampling, a sampling method using the Lemeshow formula. Data analysis uses regression analysis, correlation coefficient analysis, determination coefficient analysis and hypothesis testing. The results of this study are Product Quality (X1) and Promotion (X2) have a positive and significant effect on Purchasing Decisions (Y) with a regression equation Y = 9.678 + 0.113X1 + 0.696X2. The coefficient of determination simultaneously affects 61%. The hypothesis test partially obtained a promotion rate of tcount &gt; ttable or (2.354 &gt; 1.986). Then H0 is rejected and H1 is accepted. This means that there is a positive and significant influence between the independent variable, namely Product Quality (X1) and Purchasing Decision (Y). Product Quality numbers of tcount &gt; ttable or (12,174 &gt; 1,986). Then H0 is rejected and H2 is accepted. This means that there is an influence between the independent variable, namely Promotion (X2) and Purchase Decision (Y). Test the hypothesis obtained the value of Fcalculate &gt; ttable or (77.571 &gt; 2.700) Thus H0 is rejected and H3 is accepted, meaning that the Quality of Promotion (X1) and Promotion (X2) together have a positive effect on Purchase Decision (Y). Keywords: Product Quality, Promotion, Purchase Decision.

Entrepreneurial Motivation Competence and Growth of Micro and Small Enterprise in Nairobi County

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish how entrepreneurial motivation competence influences the growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are important drivers of economic growth and development in Kenya. These enterprises create employment, facilitate wealth creation and form the backbone for private sector growth and expansion. The numerous challenges facing MSEs in Kenya are both internal and external to their operations. Many businesses are characterized by entrepreneurs’ lack of proper entrepreneurial training, lack of marketing capacity and broad operational capacity, lack of business innovation, inadequate business training, lack of motivation for business and pro-activeness. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. There were 1,236,907 operating businesses categorized as MSEs in Nairobi County by the year 2020. To select the MSE in all the regions in Nairobi County, cluster sampling techniques was employed, first to identify the various MSEs and clusters relevant to this study. Seventeen clusters were identified according to where they are located. 384 respondents formed the study sample. The selection of the sample from each cluster of the study was through simple random sampling. The study used a questionnaire to collect primary data, which was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Findings: The findings showed that an increase in Innovation competence would result to increase in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The findings showed that a unit increase in Entrepreneurial Motivation competence would result to an increase of 0.639 units in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The univariate analysis fitted to test the relationship between motivation competence and growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County show that entrepreneurial motivation competence explained 29.9% of the variation in growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County other factors held constant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory that underpinned the study was entrepreneurial competency theory. This study recommended that micro and small enterprises should have a strong mission and vision that is shared with all employees. This will help to create a shared sense of purpose and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal. Investing in training and development will help to increase employee motivation.

Impact of homocysteine on acute ischemic stroke severity: possible role of aminothiols redox status

BackgroundAcute ischemic stroke (AIS) is one of the most common cerebrovascular diseases which accompanied by a disruption of aminothiols homeostasis. To explore the relationship of aminothiols with neurologic impairment severity, we investigated four aminothiols, homocysteine (Hcy), cysteine (Cys), cysteinylglycine (CG) and glutathione (GSH) in plasma and its influence on ischemic stroke severity in AIS patients.MethodsA total of 150 clinical samples from AIS patients were selected for our study. The concentrations of free reduced Hcy (Hcy), own oxidized Hcy (HHcy), free reduced Cys (Cys), own oxidized Cys (cysteine, Cyss), free reduced CG (CG) and free reduced GSH (GSH) were measured by our previously developed hollow fiber centrifugal ultrafiltration (HFCF-UF) method coupled with high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). The concentration ratio of Hcy to HHcy (Hcy/HHcy), Cys to Cyss (Cys/Cyss) were also calculated. The neurologic impairment severity of AIS was evaluated using National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). The Spearman correlation coefficient and logistic regression analysis was used to estimate and perform the correlation between Hcy, HHcy, Cys, Cyss, CG, GSH, Hcy/HHcy, Cys/Cyss and total Hcy with NIHSS score.ResultsThe reduced Hcy and Hcy/HHcy was both negatively correlated with NIHSS score in AIS patients with P = 0.008, r=-0.215 and P = 0.002, r=-0.249, respectively. There was no significant correlation of Cys, CG, GSH, HHcy, Cyss, Cys/Cyss and total Hcy with NIHSS score in AIS patients with P value > 0.05.ConclusionsThe reduced Hcy and Hcy/HHcy, not total Hcy concentration should be used to evaluate neurologic impairment severity of AIS patient.

Entrepreneurial Innovation Competence and Growth of Micro and Small Enterprise in Nairobi County

Purpose: Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are important drivers of economic growth and development in Kenya. These enterprises create employment, facilitate wealth creation and form the backbone for private sector growth and expansion. The numerous challenges facing MSEs in Kenya are both internal and external to their operations. Many businesses are characterized by entrepreneurs’ lack of proper entrepreneurial training, lack of marketing capacity and broad operational capacity, lack of business innovation, inadequate business training, lack of motivation for business and pro-activeness. The purpose of the study was to evaluate how entrepreneurial innovation competence influences the growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. There were 1,236,907 operating businesses categorized as MSEs in Nairobi County by the year 2020. To select the MSE in all the regions in Nairobi County, cluster sampling techniques was employed, first to identify the various MSEs and clusters relevant to this study. Seventeen clusters were identified according to where they are located. 384 respondents formed the study sample. The selection of the sample from each cluster of the study was through simple random sampling. The study used a questionnaire to collect primary data, which was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Findings: The findings showed that an increase in Innovation competence would result to increase in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The findings showed that a unit increase in Entrepreneurial Innovation competence would result to an increase of 0.622 units in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The univariate analysis fitted to test the relationship between innovation competence and growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County show that entrepreneurial innovation competence explained 31.2% of the variation in growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County other factors held constant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory that underpinned the study was entrepreneurial competency theory. This study recommended that micro and small enterprises should invest in technological innovation to enhance their growth. Investing in the latest software and hardware solutions can help increase productivity, streamline operations, and improve customer service. Additionally, investing in technology can help micro and small enterprises stay competitive in the global marketplace.

Entrepreneurial Motivation Competence and Growth of Micro and Small Enterprise in Nairobi County

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to establish how entrepreneurial motivation competence influences the growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are important drivers of economic growth and development in Kenya. These enterprises create employment, facilitate wealth creation and form the backbone for private sector growth and expansion. The numerous challenges facing MSEs in Kenya are both internal and external to their operations. Many businesses are characterized by entrepreneurs’ lack of proper entrepreneurial training, lack of marketing capacity and broad operational capacity, lack of business innovation, inadequate business training, lack of motivation for business and pro-activeness. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive survey design. There were 1,236,907 operating businesses categorized as MSEs in Nairobi County by the year 2020. To select the MSE in all the regions in Nairobi County, cluster sampling techniques was employed, first to identify the various MSEs and clusters relevant to this study. Seventeen clusters were identified according to where they are located. 384 respondents formed the study sample. The selection of the sample from each cluster of the study was through simple random sampling. The study used a questionnaire to collect primary data, which was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis. Findings: The findings showed that an increase in Innovation competence would result to increase in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The findings showed that a unit increase in Entrepreneurial Motivation competence would result to an increase of 0.639 units in growth of micro and small enterprise in Nairobi County. The univariate analysis fitted to test the relationship between motivation competence and growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County show that entrepreneurial motivation competence explained 29.9% of the variation in growth of micro and small enterprises in Nairobi County other factors held constant. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Theory that underpinned the study was entrepreneurial competency theory. This study recommended that micro and small enterprises should have a strong mission and vision that is shared with all employees. This will help to create a shared sense of purpose and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal. Investing in training and development will help to increase employee motivation.

#2651 Microwave tissue digestion and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy for measuring tissue sodium content in CKD patients

Abstract Background and Aims Skin and muscle sodium accumulation has been demonstrated in CKD patients and may contribute to progression of the disease. Various methods are available for measuring tissue sodium content. However, the accuracy and reproducibility of these methods remain unknown. Dry ashing is the most used digestion method, but is expensive, time consuming and has a risk of incomplete digestion. This study compared microwave digestion, dry ashing, and two electrolyte quantification methods for quantifying tissue sodium and potassium. Method We compared microwave digestion (Ethos LEAN Compact Microwave Digestion System, Milestone SRL) and dry ashing (Nabertherm S27) as sample preparation methods, and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS, Model 425 Flame Photometer, Sherwood Scientific) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES, Varian 720-ES, Varian Inc.) as electrolyte quantification methods. Skin and muscle samples were obtained from rats and mice, and human skin samples were used. Tissues biopsies were cut in three pieces and digested separately. The methods were compared using interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman analysis. The third piece of tissue was microwave-digested by another operator to test inter-operator reproducibility by calculating the ICC and absolute overall mean difference. Results With microwave digestion and FAAS median (IQR) human skin concentration was 114.8 (99.2-157.0, n = 12) mmol/L, confirming tissue sodium storage. When including all tissues, FAAS and ICP-OES showed high agreement for sodium (ICC 0.98, bias –0.00008 mmol/g, n = 141 and potassium (ICC 0.98, bias –0.005 mmol/g, n = 141). Microwave digestion and ashing showed agreement for sodium (ICC 0.93, bias –0.002 mmol/g, n = 61) and potassium (ICC 0.93, bias –0.02 mmol/g, n = 61). The inter-operator agreement was good for sodium (ICC 0.95, absolute mean difference (SD) 0.044 mmol/g (0.073), n = 70) and potassium (ICC 0.96, absolute mean difference (SD) 0.031 mmol/g (0.032), n = 70). Conclusion Microwave digestion with FAAS is a reliable and consistent method for sodium and potassium trace analysis in animal and human tissues compared to ashing and ICP-OES, respectively. This method showed more quantification of cations than the most frequently reported method, representing an easier, and less time-consuming way to quantify tissue sodium in CKD research.