Method Bias Research Articles

Mutual trust and employee performance of virtual and face-to-face dyads in multilatina organisations

Abstract Firms are calling their employees back to the office because of concerns about employee productivity, collaboration, and trust. Thus, knowledge about the psychosocial aspects of virtual work environments is now more essential than ever. This study compared the relationships between mutual cognitive trust and employee performance in virtual and face-to-face leader–member dyads. Numerous studies have adopted a unidirectional approach to leader–member trust, exhibiting difficulties related to common method bias. The validity of previous research results comparing trust in face-to-face and virtual leader–member dyads can also be questioned because of other methodological drawbacks. We examined mutual trust and employee performance using different raters. We utilised the multigroup exploratory approach to simultaneously analyse face-to-face and virtual dyads formed by 180 leaders and 561 employees working at a multilatina company. Our results reveal the existence of differences between virtual and face-to-face leader–member dyads vis-à-vis mutual cognitive trust and employee performance relationship.

Evaluation of three acetabular measurement methods for total hip replacement in dogs.

To compare three measurement methods for acetabular sizing and evaluate the influence of osteoarthritis (OA) on the accuracy of measurements. Observational study. Radiographic images of 73 hip joints from 60 dogs with cementless cups. Radiographs were anonymized and measured independently by three observers. One observer measured 12 sets of radiographs three times. A best-fit acetabular circle (AC) and cranial-caudal acetabular line (AL) were measured on ventral-dorsal (VD) radiographic view and open leg lateral (OLL) view. A best-fit femoral head circle (FHC) was measured on VD, OLL, and craniocaudal horizontal beam (CCHB) views. Two observers scored the OA in each hip joint. Intra- and interobserver consistency and repeatability and bias relative to implanted cup size were calculated and analyzed. Intraobserver consistency and repeatability were excellent for all measurements. Interobserver consistency was excellent (ICC > 0.9) for ACVD and ACOLL and was good (0.75 < ICC ≤ 0.9) for all other methods. Bias was small for AC and AL measurements (range, -0.46 to 0.45 mm) and large for FHC measurements (-3.58 to -2.42 mm). OA score significantly influenced bias for all acetabular measurement methods (p < 0.05). All acetabular measurement methods were highly consistent within an observer. Interobserver consistency was highest for ACVD and ACOLL. FHC measurements underestimated cup size. Higher OA scores decreased the accuracy of all acetabular measurement methods. Superimposing a circle on the acetabulum seen on VD radiographic view accurately measures the acetabulum before cementless cup placement.

Analysing the psychological capital influence on academic performance in an e-learning environment

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the evolving landscape of e-learning, which has become a transformative educational approach accelerated by technological advancements and the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to explore the adoption and impact of e-learning across diverse educational settings, focusing on its effectiveness, quality and potential challenges. Furthermore, this research delves into the often-overlooked role of psychological resources and capabilities, particularly Psychological Capital (PsyCap), in enhancing academic performance among university students engaged in e-learning. By investigating the influence of psychological resources and their intersection with e-learning, this study seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors that shape successful e-learning experiences and academic achievement.Design/methodology/approachIn this research methodology, data was collected from an e-learning institution, with a focus on students in various computer science semesters to ensure comprehensive representation. To minimize standard method bias, a random sampling technique was employed, and data collection was conducted with the support of locally hired research associates. Participant confidentiality and anonymity were carefully preserved, and ethical approval was obtained. The study began with demographic data collection and an assessment of PsyCap dimensions. Most measurements were self-reported, except for GPA, retrieved from the institute directly. The study initially involved 468 students, but only 213 provided complete responses, resulting in a 46% response rate. Demographic data included age, marital status and gender. The sample featured diverse generational representation, with 58% from Generation Z, 13% Millennials, 22% Generation X and 6% Baby Boomers. This comprehensive data will help analyse generational influences on e-learning outcomes.FindingsThe study’s findings underscore the significance of self-efficacy, hope, resilience and optimism in e-learning success. Higher self-efficacy positively impacts student engagement, aligning with previous research. PsyCap, which includes these traits, proves relevant in educational settings. Resilience is notably beneficial, aiding students in overcoming challenges and bolstering their self-belief. Hope enhances problem-solving and adaptability, while optimism fosters a proactive attitude and perseverance, both vital for academic excellence. These insights have broad implications for e-learning practices, emphasizing the need to nurture psychological resources. Incorporating PsyCap-based interventions can enhance the educational experience, promoting student success.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has certain limitations that should be considered. It focused exclusively on computer science students, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research should encompass a wider range of academic disciplines for broader applicability. The study was conducted within a specific cultural and regional context, emphasizing a collectivist culture in an Asian setting. To enhance the applicability of the results, it is crucial to explore different regions and cultural contexts. While the study controlled for generational cohort effects on academic performance, further investigation is warranted to understand how different generational cohorts perceive e-learning. Additionally, the study suggests examining how psychological resources influence students' perceptions of e-learning as a stressor or motivator. Furthermore, a comprehensive study comparing the impact of PsyCap on academic performance in both e-learning and traditional education, involving diverse samples and various cultural settings, is needed to provide a more comprehensive understanding.Originality/valueThis research contributes by thoroughly examining the impact of e-learning in diverse educational settings, focusing on its effectiveness, quality and potential challenges. A novel aspect is the exploration of the often-overlooked role of PsyCap in enhancing academic performance among university students engaged in e-learning. This sheds light on the intersection of psychological resources and e-learning. Additionally, the study’s rigorous research methodology underscores its commitment to ethical and responsible research conduct. The research also presents valuable demographic data on generational cohorts and gender, offering insights into how these factors influence e-learning outcomes. These original contributions collectively enhance our understanding of the multifaceted dynamics of e-learning and the pivotal role of psychological resources in academic success.

Continuous work-related sitting time and its association with perceived workplace support for health among workers in the Greater Accra Municipality: a cross-sectional analysis with sensitivity analyses

BackgroundResearch to date has shown that work-related sitting time can be a major occupational health risk. This understanding has encouraged several workplace health promotion efforts. Even so, some domains of work-related sitting time and their associations with Perceived Workplace Support for Health (PWSH) have not been considered in research. This study aims to compare domains of work-related sitting time between employee characteristics (e.g., gender and age) and assess their associations with PWSH.MethodsThis study adopted a cross-sectional design with a sensitivity analysis against confounding and measures against common methods bias. The study population was employees of private and public firms in Accra, Ghana. In all, 1000 employees participated in the study. The hierarchical linear regression analysis and the independent samples t-test were used to present the results.ResultsEmployees working in service firms, compared with those working in manufacturing firms, reported longer sitting time for lunchtime. After adjusting for physical function, we found a negative association between PWSH and the sum of continuous sitting time as well as its domains (p < 0.001), except for ‘sitting with a desk’ (p > 0.05).ConclusionWork-related sitting time was associated with employee characteristics and was lower at higher PWSH. This study reinforces the importance of workplace support for health and its role in work-related sitting.

Strategi Tata Kelola Kolaboratif Dalam Meningkatkan Motivasi Pelayanan Publik: Peran Gaya Kepemimpinan Transformasional Dan Kualitas Relasional.

The main objective of this study is to analyze theoretical models to develop empirical research models on factors that influence collaborative governance and public service motivation. The analysis method uses SEM PLS with 367 respondents. All questions related to research data have been tested for validity and reliability and have met the common method bias and nonresponse bias tests. The analysis presented consists of three parts, namely analysis of research respondents, descriptive analysis of research data and PLS analysis. The results show that transformational leadership style and relational quality have a significant effect on collaborative governance. Collaborative governance also affects public service motivation, with transformational leadership style and relational quality playing an important role. The practical implications of this study are the emphasis on collaborative governance in the public sector with the importance of strong transformational leadership style and relational quality so that public service motivation can run optimally through effective and sustainable collaborative governance. Keywords: collaborative governance, public service motivation, transformational leadership, relational quality

Engagement as a Lever: The Impact of Talent Management on Turnover Intentions at Ghana's Lands Commission

This study examined the moderation effect of employee engagement in the relationship between talent management and turnover intentions of workers at the Ghana Lands Commission. The study used the human capital and equity theories to explain the relationships among the constructs. The study used the quantitative approach and structural equation modelling (SEM) and employed structural equation modeling (SEM). Data was obtained from 300 employees using a three-wave survey approach that assured accuracy and reduced common method bias, resulting in a final sample of 250 respondents. The study found a positive significant effect of talent management on turnover intention. Again, employee engagement was found to significantly reduce employees’ intentions to quit, showing engagement's protective role against the potentially negative consequences of certain talent management practices. Finally, the study found engagement as a significant negative moderator on the link between talent management and turnover intentions. This emphasizes the need to cultivate a work environment that promotes participation, equality, and transparency in people management practices to reduce employee turnover and increase organizational stability.

Internet self-efficacy moderates the association of information technology ability with successful ageing among older employees in three African samples

The literature suggests that two distinct competencies [i.e., information technology ability (ITA), and internet self-efficacy] are necessary for the effective use of information technologies for successful ageing, but no study has examined the association of these skills on successful ageing and its domains (i.e., illness avoidance, functioning, and engagement with life). This study investigated whether Internet Self-Efficacy (ISE) moderates the potential association of ITA with successful ageing. The study adopted a cross-sectional design based on the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist and includes measures against confounding and common methods bias. The participants were 1186 older workers aged 50 years or older in three African countries (Kenya = 350; Nigeria = 260; Ghana = 576). The minimum sample size necessary was calculated, and data were analysed with hierarchical linear regression analysis. After controlling for the covariates, ITA and ISE had a positive association with successful ageing as well as illness avoidance, functioning, and engagement with life in the whole sample. ITA was also positively associated with successful ageing and its domains in Kenya and Ghana. The associations of ITA with successful ageing and its domains were positively moderated by ISE in the whole sample and within each of the three samples. Higher ITA can be associated with successful ageing among working older adults, and ITA positively influences successful ageing at different levels of ISE. Older adults with high ITA are more likely to avoid illness at a higher ISE.

Best practices for differential accessibility analysis in single-cell epigenomics

Differential accessibility (DA) analysis of single-cell epigenomics data enables the discovery of regulatory programs that establish cell type identity and steer responses to physiological and pathophysiological perturbations. While many statistical methods to identify DA regions have been developed, the principles that determine the performance of these methods remain unclear. As a result, there is no consensus on the most appropriate statistical methods for DA analysis of single-cell epigenomics data. Here, we present a systematic evaluation of statistical methods that have been applied to identify DA regions in single-cell ATAC-seq (scATAC-seq) data. We leverage a compendium of scATAC-seq experiments with matching bulk ATAC-seq or scRNA-seq in order to assess the accuracy, bias, robustness, and scalability of each statistical method. The structure of our experiments also provides the opportunity to define best practices for the analysis of scATAC-seq data beyond DA itself. We leverage this understanding to develop an R package implementing these best practices.

Estimating probability of default via delinquencies? Evidence from European P2P lending market

The unprecedented growth of the financial sector's digital transformation opens wide areas to the scaling up of finance in innovative and knowledge-based projects. Improving risk management takes centre stage in the acceleration of this process. This study uses loan-book data from the peer-to-peer (P2P) lending market to empirically investigate the determinants of default risk. Using the loan-book database covering the period from 2014 to 2020, we examine multiple factors related to the default risk of loans issued by P2P lending platforms. The results indicate that a higher interest rate and higher stock market returns increase the probability of default in the P2P lending market. Results are robust to additional tests based on endogeneity correction, the LASSO method and sampling bias. The severity of the impact of market returns and interest rates is found to be significantly different based on the levels of financial technology (FinTech) adoption and banking sector distress. Increases in the market interest rate are found to boost the sensitivity of P2P loan defaults to stock market volatility. This study contributes to existing literature on risk management models with its consideration of country-specific factors, paving the way to future best practices in the market.

Strategic Orientations, Access to Finance, and SMEs Performance in Thailand: Data Screening and Preliminary Analysis

This study aimed to conduct a data screening and preliminary analysis about the effect of strategic orientations towards SMEs performance and the moderating effect of access to finance in Thailand’s gem and jewelry industry. Samples of 310 were selected from the population of 1,601 SMEs operating in Thailand’s gem and jewelry business using a systematic sampling technique to collect the data. In addition, data diagnostics were performed to meet the preliminary assumptions for further multivariate analysis, particularly an advanced Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis. Thus, the study carried out response rate, missing data analysis, non-response bias test, normality test, assessment of outliers, common method bias test, and multicollinearity test. Likewise, all the assessments were conducted through the IBM SPSS 20, G*Power 3.1, and SmartPLS 3.2.8 software. Conclusively, the data met the requirements for further multivariate analysis, but the normality test still needed to be met. Although, the normality assumption was not met, the non-normally distributed samples can be analyzed further since PLS-SEM works well with non-normal data distributions. This study contributes to the current literature as it will steer other researchers in conducting data screening and preliminary analysis.

Exploring consumer acceptability of leafy greens in earth and space immersive environments using biometrics

Novel research on food perception is required for long-term space exploration. There is limited research on food/beverage sensory analysis in space and space-simulated conditions, with many studies presenting biases in sensory and statistical methods. This study used univariate and multivariate analysis on data from pick-and-eat leafy greens to assess self-reported and biometric consumer sensory analysis in simulated microgravity using reclining chairs and space-immersive environments. According to ANOVA (p < 0.05), there were significant differences between interaction room × position for head movements; besides, there were non-significant differences in the interaction samples × environment. On the other hand, there were significant differences in the sample×position interaction for all liking attributes. Results from multivariate analysis showed effects on self-reported, physiological, and emotional responses of samples in space-related positions and environments related to sensory perception changes. Non-invasive biometrics could offer a powerful tool for developing digital twins to assess genetically modified plants and plant-based food/beverages for long-term space exploration.

A-118 Sigma Metric Performance of Chemistry Assays on 4 Instrument Systems

Abstract Background Chemistry panels play a crucial role in determining a person’s general health and well-being. These tests evaluate electrolyte balance and the status of several major organs. The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) and Lipid Panel constitute approximately 87% of the blood tests prescribed in medical laboratories. Laboratories monitor assay performance by performing proficiency testing using quality controls (QC). College of American Pathologists (CAP) data is useful for laboratories to compare their proficiency testing performance to other laboratories and instrument systems. Sigma metrics serve as a valuable tool for laboratories to assess the quality and accuracy of their tests. Sigma scores vary from 0 to 6, with the 6 score designated as world-class performance, 5 as excellent, 4 as good, 3 as marginal, and 2 as poor. The analytical performance of 16 clinical assays from Abbott, Beckman, Roche, and Siemens instrument systems were compared using Sigma metrics. Methods Sigma metrics of 16 chemistry analytes were compared across 4 instruments system using CAP data from three reports (C-A 2023, C-C 2023 and C-B 2022). The 4 systems evaluated were Abbott Alinity ci, Beckman AU, Roche COBAS c500/c303 and Siemens Atellica CH. Method imprecision was estimated for each assay using the cumulative coefficient of variation or standard deviation for each assay at a single QC concentration and calculating the average sigma. Since sigma levels can be concentration-dependent, an equivalent CAP sample concentration was chosen for each instrument system evaluation. Method bias was estimated by evaluating each method QC mean to the peer group mean. Sigma values were calculated for each method as Sigma = (TEa - |Bias|) / Precision using the allowable total error from 2014 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) proposed acceptance limits. Average Sigma values were generated for each analyte and graded as an optimal Sigma score. Results The sigma scores varied across assays and instrument systems. Abbott demonstrated the best overall performance. Specifically, the Abbott Alinity system had the highest number (7/16, 44%) of assays at 5 sigma or higher, with Siemens showing the lowest number of assays at 5 Sigma or higher (1/16, 6%). Of the 16 assays evaluated, Abbott has the fewest assays at or below the 3 sigma threshold (5/16) when compared to Roche (7/16), Beckman (7/16), and Siemens (9/16). Sigma scores were comparable between the Abbott ARCHITCT and Alinity clinical chemistry systems. Conclusions Sigma metrics are useful in assessing the performance of clinical assays. Assays with high Sigma have better performance due to lower imprecision and higher accuracy. None of the instrument systems demonstrated optimal six sigma performance for all analytes. However, Abbott demonstrated the best overall performance.

A-210 Ldl-c to non-hdl-c ratio method: a simple way to determine bias for ldl-c methods on hypertriglyceridemic samples

Abstract Background Beta-quantification (BQ) is the reference method for LDL-C but is not widely available. It is difficult, therefore, for clinical laboratories to independently assess the accuracy of their methods for either calculating or directly measuring LDL-C. Our goal was to investigate if an interrelationship between the tests in the standard lipid panel could be used to compare the performance of different LDL-C methods against BQ, specifically in samples with hypertriglyceridemia, a major cause of bias for LDL-C testing. Methods BQ results from Mayo Medical Labs (n=39,667) and the NIH (n=18,338) were used to identify a linear relationship by least-squares regression analysis between lipid panel test results and LDL-C to facilitate a statistical comparison between different LDL-C methods. Results It is well established that the number of VLDL particles increases as TG increases, because VLDL is the main carrier of TG. As a consequence, the ratio of LDL-C to non-HDL-C is inversely related to TG, which can be made linear by taking the square root of TG (Figure). Nearly identical regression equations were found for this relationship, using two different BQ datasets. When LDL-C was calculated by either Sampson equation, the LDL-C/non-HDL-C regression lines nearly overlapped with the one for BQ. In contrast, the Martin equation showed a positive bias with increasing TG, whereas the Friedewald equation showed a negative bias, consistent with past reports on their LDL-C biases with hypertriglyceridemia. In the UKBiobank, the Beckman direct LDL-C showed a positive bias for TG, which was confirmed in CAP proficiency test surveys. By simulation analysis, approximately 80 samples with high (&amp;gt;200 mg/dL) and low (&amp;lt;100 mg/dL) TG is statistically sufficient to assess if the LDL-C/non-HDL-C regressions lines of LDL-C methods differ from BQ. Conclusions The LDL-C/non-HDL-C ratio method is a simple way to examine LDL-C methods for bias on hypertriglyceridemic samples.

B-008 An Evaluation of the Analytical Performance of the New Beckman Coulter DxC 500i Clinical Analyzer

Abstract Background The DxC 500i Clinical Analyzer* is Beckman Coulter’s latest integrated Clinical Chemistry and Immunoassay analyzer. It provides reliability, scalability, and workflow efficiency via a flexible independent maintenance mode, increased uptime, and a dynamic sample handler to optimize sample management. Standard Beckman Coulter Chemistry and Immunoassay consumables and reagents ensure network standardization and commutability. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the analytical performance of the new DxC 500i analyzer and to compare the performance against the Beckman Coulter stand-alone Clinical Chemistry and Immunoassay analyzers on the market. Methods To assess performance over a range of assay methodologies, several DxC 500i Beckman Coulter Immunoassays and Chemistry assays were evaluated. Precision was assessed using human samples following CLSI EP05-A3 guidelines. Linear range was assessed following CLSI EP06-A guidelines. Method Comparison and Bias Estimation studies compared the DxC 500i Clinical Analyzer against the Access 2 Immunoassay System, the AU480 and the DxC 700 AU Clinical Chemistry analyzers, following CLSI EP09c-ED3 guidelines. To investigate carryover potential as samples are processed across the integrated system, a carryover study was designed. This focused on evaluating potential sample-to-sample carryover caused by the AU sample probe and its effects on immunoassay samples during reflex scenarios. Results DxC 500i Chemistry results: Glucose Serum (OSR6x21) Assessments of repeatability and within laboratory precision at multiple critical analyte concentrations showed total imprecision of &amp;lt;3% and within-run imprecision of &amp;lt;3%. The Glucose serum assay demonstrated acceptable linearity throughout the 10-800 mg/dL analytical measuring range. Method comparison studies compared the DxC 500i analyzer against the AU480 and DxC 700 AU systems. A Weighted Deming regression of serum patient samples (n&amp;gt;100 measured across the analytical range) yielded a 0.986 slope, 0.227 mg/dL intercept, and R=0.9999 correlation coefficient against the DxC 700 AU and a 0.995 slope, 0.356 mg/dL intercept, and R=0.9999 correlation coefficient against the AU480. DxC 500i Immunoassay results: Cortisol (33600) Beckman Coutler’s Cortisol assay exhibited total imprecision of &amp;lt;12%CV at &amp;lt;5 μg/dL or &amp;lt;10CV% at ≥5 μg/dL for serum. The Cortisol assay demonstrated acceptable linearity throughout the 0.4-60 μg/dL analytical measuring range. A method comparison study compared the DxC 500i against the Access 2 system. A Weighted Deming regression of serum patient samples (n&amp;gt;100 measured across the analytical range) yielded a 0.9785 slope, 0.2764 μg/dL intercept, and R=0.9932 correlation coefficient. DxC 500i Carryover Assessment The Total βhCG (5th IS) assay was used to evaluate the potential of chemistry analyzer to immunoassay analyzer sample carryover. The study used High hCG serum samples (&amp;gt;1,000,000 mIU/mL) and Low hCG serum samples (4-6 mIU/mL). The DxC 500i exhibited a cumulative carryover of ≤2 parts per million (PPM) for serum. Conclusions These studies demonstrate excellent analytical performance for the new Beckman Coulter DxC 500i Clinical Analyzer* and confirm comparable performance to current Beckman Coulter standalone Clinical Chemistry and Immunoassay analyzers on the market. *Pending clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration; not yet available for in vitro diagnostic use in the U.S. Product availability and regulatory status depends on country registration per applicable regulations.

B-167 Quantification of Thyroglobulin in Serum for Clinical Research using SISCAPA Workflow Combined with LC-MS/MS

Abstract Background Accurate measurement of Thyroglobulin (Tg) using existing immunoassay-based techniques can be challenging in the presence of anti-Tg antibodies (TgAb), which can prevent the binding of Tg to assay antibodies thus leading to non-quantifiable Tg concentrations. The Stable Isotope Standards and Capture with Anti-Peptide Antibodies (SISCAPA™) Workflow combined with LC-MS/MS has been successfully employed to circumvent this problem by digesting the serum sample thus eliminating interfering TgAb and measuring a Tg-specific surrogate peptide instead. Methods Using a Andrew+™ Pipetting Robot, denaturation and reduction buffer was added to 250µL serum samples and incubated at 37°C. Internal standard and trypsin were added and samples incubated at 37°C. The samples were quenched with protease inhibitor and Anti-Tg FSP mAb SISCAPA was added to the serum samples and mixed for 60 minutes. Using a magnetic array plate, the beads were left to pull down, samples were discarded, and the beads were twice washed with PBS/CHAPS prior to elution with acetonitrile with formic acid. Using an ACQUITY™ UPLC™ I-Class PLUS FL System, samples were injected onto a Waters™ XSelect™ HSS T3 Column using a water/acetonitrile/formic acid gradient elution profile and the Tg FSP peptide was quantified using a Waters Xevo™ TQ Absolute Mass Spectrometer. Results The method demonstrated no significant carryover or matrix effects and was shown to be linear from 0.1 - 50 ng/mL. Analytical sensitivity investigations indicate the analytical sensitivity of this method would allow precise quantification (&amp;lt;20%) at 0.1 ng/mL with S/N (PtP) &amp;gt;10:1. Coefficients of variation (CV) for total precision and repeatability on 5 analytical runs for low, mid and high QCs were all &amp;lt; 9.5% (n = 25) for both automated and manual precision assessments. Comparison with samples from the UK NEQAS scheme demonstrated significant method bias of -40% for the developed LC-MS/MS method. Re-assignment of the calibrator concentrations using the EQA samples reduced the bias to -5.5%, indicating differences in the calibration materials used for these measurements. Conclusions A LC-MS/MS clinical research method for serum thyroglobulin was developed using SISCAPA, followed by analysis using ACQUITY UPLC I-Class PLUS FL System and the Xevo TQ Absolute Mass Spectrometer. The method provides analytical sensitivity down to 0.1 ng/mL from 250 µL serum, while providing sufficient sample for re-analysis. The method demonstrates excellent linearity across the calibration range, with no significant carryover, interferences, and matrix effects. Total reproducibility and repeatability of the method was ≤9.5% RSD for manual and automated sample preparation, using the Andrew+ Pipetting Robot. In addition, the Andrew+ Pipetting Robot can minimize user touch-time, allowing a full plate to be prepared within four hours without user intervention.

A-046 Quantification of Corticosteroids and Androgens in Serum, utilizing Waters MassTrak™ Steroid Serum Sets 2 &amp; Sets 3 for Clinical Research

Abstract Background Steroid hormones encompass a large class of small molecules that play a central role in metabolic processes, such as the regulation of sexual characteristics, blood pressure, and inflammation. Enzymes that form part of the steroid biosynthetic pathway are pivotal in these metabolic processes, and their dysfunction can be examined through the correct measurement of steroid hormones in a clinical research setting. The availability of lyophilized calibrators and QCs reduces sample preparation time, aids in method harmonization, and assists with metrological traceability in accordance with ISO15189:2022, when used alongside an analytically selective chromatographic method. Methods A quantitative clinical research method utilizing Waters MassTrak Steroid Serum Sets 2 and 3, Cals &amp; QCs and Waters Oasis™ PRiME HLB µElution plate technology for the extraction of testosterone, androstenedione, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17- OHP), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), Cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol and 21-deoxycortisol from human serum samples. Chromatographic separation was performed on an Waters ACQUITY™ UPLC™ I Class Plus (FL-I) System, using an ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 Column, accompanied by a Xevo™ TQ-S micro Mass Spectrometer. Results Accuracy (±6%) and precision (±10%) have been confirmed through comparison to External Quality Assurance (EQA) LC-MS/MS schemes, panels and QC material for all seven steroid hormones. All analytes were assessed at the low, medium and high concentrations for each MassTrak Steroid Serum Set, which yielded excellent results across the range (±10%). Deming and Linear regression analysis were performed. No statistically significant bias was observed for each compound, with a mean method bias of ±1.3% for Set 2 and ±1.0% for Set 3. The clinical research method was shown to be linear for all analytes over the calibration ranges specified, furthermore, calibration lines created using Set 2 and Set 3 were analysed over a five-day period and were linear with a co-efficient of determination of (r2) &amp;gt; 0.999 for all analytes. Analytical sensitivity using Signal:Noise (S/N) of the low calibrator (Calibrator 1) of each set, was &amp;gt;10:1 for each analyte across several analytical runs. Conclusions This evaluation has demonstrated that the MassTrak Steroid Serum Calibrator and Quality Control Sets 2 and 3 can provide precise and accurate quantification of steroid hormones in serum. An analytically sensitive and selective clinical research method has been developed for the analysis of testosterone, androstenedione, 17- OHP, DHEAS, cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol and 21-deoxycortisol in serum using Waters I-Class Xevo TQ-S micro system. For Research Use Only. Not for Use in Diagnostic Procedures.

Real world feasibility of patient-based real time quality control (PBRTQC) using five analytes in a South African laboratory

BackgroundPatient-based real-time quality control (PBRTQC) identifies possible bias in methods by utilising shifts in trend of statistical measures in laboratory results. In this study we aimed to compare and optimize various PBRTQC procedures for serum alanine aminotransferase, albumin, calcium, ferritin and sodium. MethodsIn a bias simulation study, we added artificial bias to intervals of patient data and then evaluated the efficiency with which various PBRTQC procedures were able to detect this bias. PBRTQC procedures used included block size, moving statistic calculation, control limits as well as truncation limits. The number of patients till error detection, the false alarm rate as well as validation charts were utilised to select the optimal PBRTQC procedure for each analyte. ResultsThe optimal PBRTQC procedures identified for each analyte were: ALT − MA T0 50 MaxMin; Albumin − MA T5 100 Perc; Calcium − MM T5 50 Perc; Ferritin − MA T0 100 MaxMin; and Sodium − MA T5 75 MaxMin. (T, Truncation limits; Control limits- MA, Moving Average, MM, Moving median; Perc, percentile) ConclusionsThe use of large, real patient datasets allows for the reliable determination of laboratory-specific PBRTQC procedures. This study demonstrates that the moving average calculation excels in both normal and transformed analyte distributions. Whilst, the benefits of PBRTQC procedures are proven, the complex and time-consuming optimisation process may be a barrier to the rapid implementation in under-resourced countries.

Unfolding the relationship between change management, employee engagement and productivity: resistance to change and emotional intelligence as moderators

PurposeThe objective of this study is to investigate the effect of change management (CM) on employee productivity (EP). A double-layered conceptual model involving resistance to change and emotional intelligence (EI) as moderators and employee engagement (EE) as a mediator between CM and EP.Design/methodology/approachFour industries from India (education, healthcare, information technology and manufacturing) are selected to test the hypothesized relationships. The data from 406 respondents were collected through a survey instrument and was analyzed using Hayes’s PROCESS macros.FindingsThe results reveal that CM is a precursor to EE and EP. The findings also indicate that resistance to change (first moderator) and EI (second moderator) significantly influenced the relationship between CM and EP mediated through EE.Research limitations/implicationsAs with any social science research, this study suffers from the limitations of common method bias and social desirability bias. However, the researchers have taken adequate care to minimize these biases. This study has several theoretical and practical implications.Originality/valueThe moderated-mediated model concerning CM is the first of its kind to study in the Indian context and hence makes a substantial contribution to the literature on CM. The implications for theory and practice are discussed.

Influence of Country of Origin on Brand Evangelism (E-WOM): The Mediating Role of Consumer Engagement in an Emerging Market

This study investigates the impact of country of origin (COO) on consumer attitudes and brand evangelism in Ghana’s telecommunications industry. The research uses a multi-study approach, examining three telecom brands (A, B, and C) in Ghana. The data was collected online and offline, with a month delay to reduce method bias. The study found that the COO significantly influences consumers’ affective and cognitive engagements with telecom brands A and B, but does not directly impact behavioral engagement of any of the brands. The study emphasizes the importance of emotional and cognitive connections in driving brand evangelism as behavioral engagement alone may not translate into evangelism. The findings suggest that telecom brands can leverage their COO to enhance consumer engagement and foster brand evangelism by emphasizing positive associations with their origin. This research fills a gap in the literature by exploring the COO effect on telecom brands’ consumer engagement and brand evangelism. However, limitations include the focus on Ghanaian consumers and the use of PLS-SEM analysis, suggesting opportunities for further research in different cultural contexts and alternative methodologies.

Evaluation of sampling bias in growth and skin health assessment methods of New Zealand-farmed king salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)

Sampling bias was investigated in New Zealand farmed king salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) at the end of a feed trial. Two sampling techniques - a non-lethal manual assessment (MA) and a lethal hook and line (HL), were evaluated for the representativity of their samples, with regard to two performance indicators, weight and skin health. Both sampling techniques assessed (MA n = 60, HL n = 4) were biased when compared to the analysis of all the fish in each pen. However, MA samples were biased towards fish with better skin health and higher weight (+ 0.20 kg), while HL selected fish with poorer skin health than the pen population average and lower Fulton's Condition Factor (− 0.25) than MA samples. Our results emphasised the significance of understanding sampling bias so research interpretation is correct.