Statistical Inference Research Articles

Logistics Management and Service Delivery in Humanitarian Organisations in Kenya: A Case Study of Kenya Red Cross Society

The goal was to assess the effects of supplier management and information management on the KRCS’s service delivery. Goal-Setting Theory is the main theory, supported by resource-based view and institutional theory. The study targeted a population of 300 individuals using a descriptive research approach. A total of 171 individuals were chosen for the sample size using stratified random sampling. Data was acquired by means of surveys. Basic statistics were used to assess the quantitative data, and SPSS version 27 was used for data analysis. Tables were used to display the data. Inferential statistics were used to illustrate the link between the variables. Throughout the course of the study, the research investigation was guided by a few ethical criteria. The R2 values for the relationship between supplier management and service delivery were 0.642, indicating a positive association, and 0.499, suggesting that changes in supplier management may account for 49.9% of the variation in service delivery. fundamental correlation between service delivery and information management (R = 0.595), with an R2 value of 0.431, while the DV was service delivery. To ensure successful logistics management and service delivery, KRCS should improve supplier management and service delivery, which is necessary, and that they can balance organizational goals and priorities with the supplier's perspective on challenges. This will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the processes that the KRCS and communities in need of support use. KRCS service delivery can be increased by using auto- technologies. Independent variable technologies are welcomed since they will make product marking more accurate and efficient, which will improve operations.

Statistical inference for lindley random walks with correlated increments

Statistical inference for lindley random walks with correlated increments

Evaluation of effect of person role fitness on mastery of soft skills among interns in Nakuru County Government, Kenya

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of person role fitness on mastery of soft skills among interns in Nakuru County Government, Kenya. The curriculum that most college graduates are exposed to largely offer hard skills, but important soft skills that would make them well-prepared for the work environment are lacking. The study used a descriptive research design. The study's population consisted of 1300 interns stationed at the Nakuru County Government during the month of August. A stratified random selection technique was employed to choose a sample of 102 interns, and data was collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to examine the data and obtain both descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson's product-moment correlation was used as an inferential statistic to determine the direction and strength of linear associations. Simple and multiple regression analyses were employed to assess the relationship between the variables. The study indicated that person role fitness substantially affected soft skills proficiency in Nakuru County Government (? = 1.139, Sig. < 0.05). Thus, it was concluded that person role fitness is a significant factor of internship, which affects soft skills mastery among interns in the county. The study recommends that colleges operate in conjunction with the organisations or industries where the students are sent for their internship programs to ensure that the interns are well placed as per their professions in order to enhance soft skills mastery among the interns, as was evidenced by Nakuru County Government, Kenya.

Psychosocial predictors of attitude toward premarital sexual practice among university students, Ethiopia

ObjectivesPremarital sexual practice during adolescence may lead to different sexual and reproductive health problems, including HIV/AIDS. The objective of this study was to assess psychosocial predictors of attitudes toward premarital sex among Bahir Dar University students.MethodsA correlational design was used. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 375 respondents for the study, although the analysis was based on the 361 questionnaires that were returned from the field and found useful for analysis. Data was collected using a self-developed and modified instrument on standardized scales. The internal consistency of the Perception of Peer Pressure Scale was 0.83, while the self-esteem measuring scale had a reliability of 0.77. The internal consistency of the sexual attitude inventory scale was 0.97. The data were quantitatively analyzed using (inferential statistics) logistic regression, one sample t test, and an independent sample t test.ResultsThe findings of the study showed that all the psychological variables investigated were found to significantly predict premarital sexual relationships among the respondents. Male students with the experience of premarital sex have a higher level of self-esteem and exposure to peer pressure than their female counterparts. A study suggests that male students with the experience of premarital sex have a higher level of self-esteem and exposure to peer pressure than their female counterparts. Self-esteem negatively predicted attitudes toward premarital sex.ConclusionScaling up the level of school counseling, especially in the area of sexual adjustment and modification of the psychological variables investigated, was recommended.

Influence of Emerging Trends in Human Resource Management on Employee Performance of Nandi County Government, Nandi County, Kenya

There has been a rise of many emerging trends and issues in all sectors and organizations globally, and the human resource management field was not an exception. Therefore, this study sought to establish the influence of emerging trends in human resource management on employee performance within the Nandi County Government. The study was guided by the following objectives: to assess the influence of professional development and to determine the influence of information technology on employee performance. The findings of the study would enable the county government to understand how emerging trends influenced the performance of their employees and served as a reference point for prospective researchers. The study was anchored on the theory of performance and resource-based theory. It adopted both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. The study design was descriptive research design, and the target population was 222. The sampling adopted included stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The sample size of the study was 143, determined using the Yamane method. Structured questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect data, which were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics, including mean, standard deviation, and linear regression. The analyzed data were presented in tables, charts, and graphs. The study found that professional development emerged as a significant influencer, with a coefficient of 0.402 and a standardized coefficient of 0.421, suggesting a positive influence on employee performance through investments in professional growth. This influence is supported by a high t-value of 4.612 and a p-value of .000. Information technology similarly demonstrates a notable influence, with a coefficient of 0.383 and a standardized coefficient of 0.392. The statistical significance is reinforced by a t-value of 3.286 and a p-value of .000. The study concluded that employees perceived training programs related to the management information system positively. Further, the study concluded that there is a strong commitment among employees to pursue higher academic qualifications, indicating a culture of continuous learning within the Nandi County Government. The study recommended that comprehensive continuous learning programs be developed and implemented to encourage and support employees in pursuing higher academic qualifications and professional certifications. It also recommended that customized managerial training programs should be created to align with the specific competencies needed in the Nandi County Government Enhancing the IT infrastructure and accessibility in the County Government.

Relation of CXCL10 and CXCR3 Gene Polymorphisms with COVID-19 Severity and its Serum Biochemical Markers

CXCL10 (rs201830102) is a chemokine involved in immune cell recruitment, while its receptor, CXCR3 (rs779120264), mediates immune responses through the activation of T cells. These genes are critical in the immune response to viral infections, including COVID-19. The study aimed to explore the relationship between polymorphisms in the CXCL10 gene and CXCR3 receptor with disease severity in COVID-19 patients. In this cross-sectional analytical study, 100 COVID-19 patients were enrolled after ethical approval, and written informed consent was obtained from each participant. Polymorphisms in CXCL10 and CXCR3 were analyzed by sequencing, while biochemical and hematological parameters were assessed using appropriate methods. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze continuous and categorical data. Significant associations were observed between severe COVID-19 cases and elevated levels of serum D-dimer, ferritin, random blood sugar (RBS), neutrophils, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), along with reduced hemoglobin levels. Lymphocyte and platelet counts were significantly lower with increased disease severity. The wild genotype of CXCL10 was notably associated with elevated ferritin levels, suggesting that certain gene variants may offer protective effects. However, no significant correlation was found between CXCR3 and CXCL10 polymorphisms and other serum biomarkers. Our study confirmed a significant rise in serum D-dimer, ferritin, RBS, neutrophils, and ESR, along with a reduction in hemoglobin, lymphocyte, and platelet counts in severe COVID-19 cases compared to mild ones. Notably, mutations in the CXCL10 gene were linked to less severe COVID-19 outcomes.

Public acceptance of coercive measures in Nigerian mental health care

Background: For the first time, Nigeria has enacted a new mental health law that regulates the use of coercive measures in mental health care. Aim: The study aimed to investigate the extent to which the Nigerian public accepts the use of coercive measures in the treatment of people with mental health conditions and to understand the impact of stigma and other sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 615 adult respondents from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The study instrument included a case-specific vignette, a social distance scale, and a brief sociodemographic form. Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted with SPSS v.25 software. Results: More than half of the study respondents agreed that the vignette character should be forced to go to the hospital if he refuses to go (65%, n = 400), and he should be forced to take medications at the psychiatric hospital (55.1%, n = 339). The least accepted coercive measure was Isolation (28.8%, n = 177). There were significant associations between social distance and the acceptance of involuntary admissions, forced medication, mechanical restraints, and isolation ( p < .05). Social distance score was highest among respondents who agreed that the vignette character should be isolated (24.023 ± 5.503; F = 24.672, p < .001). Conclusions: The study highlights variations in public attitudes toward coercive psychiatric measures, within the Nigerian context compared to other countries. The lower acceptance rates for isolation as a coercive measure underscore the cultural importance of social interaction in Nigeria. The relatively recent implementation of Nigeria’s Mental Health Act also suggests a potential gap in public knowledge regarding the criteria for coercive measures. Future research should aim to include diverse populations and consider longitudinal approaches to assess changes in public attitudes as awareness of mental health legislation increases.

Physiotherapists’ knowledge, attitude and practice of clinical prediction rules in low-back pain

Abstract Background and aim Clinical prediction rules (CPRs) are mathematical tools that are intended to guide clinicians in clinical decision making or predict a future outcome, but they seem rather unknown, under-utilized, or avoided by clinicians. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of CPRs in low-back pain (LBP) among physiotherapists. Methods A cross-sectional study involving 45 consenting specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapists from three public-funded teaching hospitals in Nigeria was carried out. An adapted validated questionnaire on facilitators and barriers to CPRs utilization, and a socio-demographic proforma were used to collect data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze data. Alpha level was set at p < 0.05. Results Respondents were mostly males (71.1%), married (64.4%) and first-degree holders (55.6%). Twenty-eight (62.2%) of the respondents had above-average knowledge of CPRs in LBP. Rates for positive attitude towards, and utilization of CPRs were 37.8% and 15.6%. Knowledge and attitude about CPRs in LBP were not significantly influenced by socio-demographic factors (p > 0.05). However, there was a significant association between the utilization of CPRs and years of experience (χ2 = 10.339 p = 0.016). Conclusion Most Nigerian physiotherapists had above-average knowledge, but a negative attitude and low utilization of CPRs in LBP. Clinicians’ years of clinical experience influence the usage of CPR. There is a need to incorporate training in CPRs into undergraduate and continuous professional development programmes.

Religious culture and cigarette use: University students’ attitudes towards smoking based on their Islamic value

The current examines the influence of Islamic values on smoking behaviors among undergraduate students at Yarmouk University in Irbid, Jordan (N: 334). Tobacco use, in religious and cultural terms, is viewed as abhorrent; it is a significant concern for this population group. The study intends to identify how Islamic values affect the perception of students on smoking and, consequently, their smoking behavior. A self-administered questionnaire assessed sociodemographic data and the past 30 days of cigarette use. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, midpoint and standard deviation, and inferential statistics, such as chi-square tests, t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and hierarchical regression, were used to analyze smoking behaviors, Islamic values, and demographic attributes. The study shows that Islamic values have a strong negative attitude towards smoking; students attributed smoking to religion, family and social expectations and perceptions, health and economic implications. Further, the hierarchical regression analysis revealed that cigarette use, hookah and e-cigarette, gender, and attitude towards Islamic values were suitable predictors for cigarette use. This study advances knowledge regarding smoking behaviors from the cultural-religious perspective. It highlights the importance of historically and culturally informed gender-sensitive prevention programs that address smoking-related beliefs, attitudes, and practices. Collaboration with the Ministry of Health and media outlets to integrate Islamic values into public health campaigns can reduce smoking among university students by aligning cultural and religious beliefs with health messaging.

ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DEMOGRAPHICS AND EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION LEVELS: THE ROLE OF GENDER AND AGE IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF THE WORK ENVIRONMENT

This study explores the influence of age and education level on employee satisfaction on performance appraisal at the Surabaya Ministry of Health Polytechnic. With a quantitative approach, data was collected through a questionnaire from 90 employees and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that there was a significant difference in satisfaction levels based on age and education level. Younger, more educated employees tend to report higher satisfaction with performance appraisals, suggesting that these demographic factors influence their perceptions of fairness and transparency. This study emphasizes the importance of human resource management to consider age and education when designing an effective performance appraisal system. This study provides new insights in the human resource management literature by highlighting the importance of demographic factors in employee satisfaction with performance appraisals. The results of this study also provide guidance for improving the performance appraisal system and employee satisfaction in the institution.

Nonlinear Dynamics Analysis of Handgrip Strength Using the Poincaré Plot Method Through Video Processing Techniques

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the nonlinear dynamics of handgrip strength (HGS) in young adults, focusing on hand dominance, by employing the Poincaré plot method to assess short- and long-term variability utilizing dynamometry and video motion capture during sustained isometric contractions. Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory study was conducted on 30 healthy subjects (mean age 21.6 ± 1.3 years, 13 males and 17 females), measuring HGS for both the dominant hand (DH) and nondominant hand (NDH) using a Saehan hydraulic dynamometer during 25-s sustained isometric contractions. A GoPro HERO11 Black camera recorded the dynamometer’s needle movements, and the video data were analyzed using Kinovea software. Angular values were converted to force using a calibration-based formula, and the Poincaré plot computed variability indices (short-term variability—SD1, long-term variability—SD2, ratio SD1/SD2, and area of the fitting ellipse) for each hand in relation to HGS and angular velocity (AV). Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: We demonstrated a strong correlation between mechanical and video measurements (p ≤ 0.001), confirming the reliability of the video method. The findings highlight the importance of nonlinear analysis in understanding neuromuscular function and fatigue, revealing significant correlations among HGS, AV, Poincaré indices, and fatigue levels in both hands (p ≤ 0.001). Increased maximum HGS and AV correlated with higher nonlinear variability in force production. Conclusions: This study confirms the reliability of the proposed video-based HGS assessment and demonstrates the effectiveness of Poincaré plot analysis for capturing nonlinear variability in HGS.

Motivations for Enrolment and Dropout of First-Year Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Pilot Multimethod Study

Background/Objectives: Higher education institutions must improve the attractiveness and retention of the nursing profession to address the widespread shortage. This pilot multimethod study aimed to preliminarily understand the relationship between motivations for enrolment and dropout among first-year undergraduate nursing students. Methods: A two-step approach was conducted among first-year nursing students from five Italian universities involving: (a) a baseline quantitative online survey collecting their characteristics and motivations for enrolment; (b) a follow-up semi-structured interview qualitative data collection among students who dropped out. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to describe the motivations for enrolment and differences between universities. Dropout motivations emerged from inductive content analysis, with data categorisation according to Urwin’s framework. Results: A total of 759 students completed the online survey. Primary motivations for enrolment included the desire to be useful (88.8%), help suffering people (84.3%), and find employment (74.2%); 22.3% cited unsuccessful admission to another university as motivation for enrolment. Of the 141 students who discontinued, 31 were interviewed (22%). Eleven categories and three themes were identified. More than half of the participants dropped out due to interest in other courses and lack of aptitude, while a smaller number cited personal circumstances. Other motivations for dropout were related to negative learning environments or feelings and difficulties related to course characteristics. Conclusions: This study provides an initial insight into these complex phenomena that will be instrumental in understanding data from an Italian multicenter cohort study. The findings can inform recommendations and strategies to strengthen the future nursing workforce.

Abstract 4122677: Reduced Costs and Readmissions With Outpatient Versus Inpatient Diuresis in Heart Failure Patients at UNC Hospital

Background: Heart failure (HF) remains a leading cause of hospital admissions, with high morbidity, mortality, and projected healthcare costs of $70 billion by 2030. Effective management of the patient’s volume status is crucial in managing symptom burden, preventing rehospitalization, and thus reducing healthcare expenses. In 2017, UNC Hospital opened an ambulatory diuresis clinic to address this issue. Aim: This retrospective cohort study evaluates the cost and rehospitalization rates of HF patients treated in the ambulatory diuresis clinic versus those receiving inpatient diuresis at the hospital. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 2,950 unique HF patients from August 2017 to September 2023, treated with IV diuresis at UNC Hospital or its outpatient clinic. Patients were classified into a clinic cohort, who visited the diuresis clinic at least once, and a non-clinic cohort, who never visited and were defined by a primary HF diagnosis with an ED/observation visit or inpatient stay ≤ two days. The primary outcome measured was average readmissions per cohort; the secondary outcome included total charges from billing records. Rehospitalization and mortality rates were tracked via EHR. Statistical analyses, including descriptive and inferential statistics, were conducted to compare costs and outcomes between the two groups. Results: This study compared 996 patients in the clinic group with 1,954 in the non-clinic group, noting similar baseline characteristics of average ages of 66.80 and 67.24 years, BMIs of 33.95 and 33.73 kg/m^2, and one-year all-cause mortality rates of 21.18% and 22.77%, respectively. Average admissions per cohort were higher for the clinic group one year prior to the index visit—0.159 vs. 0.127—but decreased post-index visit: by six months, admissions were 0.094 for the clinic and 0.161 for the non-clinic; at one year, they were 0.133 and 0.210, respectively. Financially, the clinic group incurred $7,895 less in charges during the index visit and had lower total costs one-year post-index, at $17,785 compared to $23,982 for the non-clinic group. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that outpatient diuresis at UNC Hospital is more cost-effective than inpatient diuresis for HF patients and reduces rehospitalization rates at six months and one-year post-index visit. These results suggest that outpatient diuresis is cost-effective, may enhance patient outcomes, and could alleviate the strain on healthcare resources.

Abstract 4144528: The Polygenic Mechanisms of Dilated Cardiomyopathy Contribute to The Development of Tachycardia-Associated Cardiomyopathy in Patients With Atrial Tachyarrhythmias

Background Longstanding tachycardia can lead to reversible left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction called tachycardia-associated cardiomyopathy (TAC). It is unknown if there is a genetic predisposition to the development of TAC or whether there is overlap between the genetic pathways of TAC and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Research Questions Is there a genetic predisposition towards the development of TAC in individuals with arrhythmia? If so, do these genetic pathways overlap with those of DCM? Methods/Approach The study is a single-center case control study performed at the Montreal Heart Institute (MHI). Inclusion criteria for TAC cases are shown in Table 1. All cases underwent array genotyping and exome sequencing. Previously genotyped controls with arrhythmia but no documented LV dysfunction were included from the MHI Biobank. Following imputation using the TOPMed imputation server, a polygenic score for DCM (PGS DCM ; PGS000666) was calculated for cases and controls. The rate of (likely) pathogenic variants in known cardiomyopathy genes was reported in cases. Results/Data (descriptive and inferential statistics) The study included 107 cases and 878 controls. Case characteristics are shown in Table 1. The average PGS DCM for cases was significantly higher than that of controls (p-value <10 -10 ; Figure 1). Logistic regression with correction for age, sex, and ancestry (principal components) showed a strong association of PGS DCM with TAC (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.54-2.58; p-value <10 -6 ). Notably, among patients with atrial tachyarrhythmias, those with a PGS DCM above the 95 th percentile had a 3.53-fold increased risk of TAC (p-value 4.5 -4 ). Exome sequencing in TAC cases identified only 2/107 (2%) carriers of (likely) pathogenic variants (in cardiomyopathy genes TNNT2 and MYH7 ). Conclusions Pathogenic variants account for a small minority of TAC cases. In contrast, a significant association between PGS DCM and TAC is suggestive of a shared polygenic pathway between TAC and DCM.

Abstract 4140116: Adherence to Lipid Lowering Therapy among US Veterans with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

Introduction/Background: US Veterans experience a high burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Improved adherence to lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) is strongly associated with reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), which has the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality among Veterans with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Goals/Aims: To describe adherence to statin and non-statin LLT among US Veterans with ASCVD. Methods/Approach: Using Veterans’ Health Administration (VHA) electronic health records from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2019, we identified regular users of the VHA who were on at least one LLT within 12-months after ASCVD diagnosis. ASCVD diagnosis was identified using ICD9/10 and Current Procedural Terminology codes. Medication possession ratio (MPR) was calculated as the sum of days’ supply for all fills of a given LLT during 12-, 24-, and 36-month follow-up, divided by the number of days in the follow-up period. Medication adherence was defined as MPR ≥ 0.80. Results/Data (descriptive and inferential statistics): The total number of Veterans on an LLT within 12-months after ASCVD diagnosis was 2,194,684 [mean (SD) age=68 (10) years, 98% male, and 75% white race]. Overall proportion of patients who were adherent to LLT was 68%, 64%, and 62%, at 12-, 24-, and 36-months post ASCVD diagnosis, respectively (Table). Conclusion(s): Suboptimal adherence to LLT was observed in one third of US Veterans with ASCVD. Adherence rates were highest in the first 12 months post ASCVD diagnosis. Future studies are needed to understand factors contributing to low and declining LLT adherence over time among Veterans.

Effects of Market Upgrading Temporary Relocation on Livelihoods of PAPs in Juja Market in Kiambu County, Kenya

This paper utilizes data from an MA Thesis on the effects of market upgrading temporary relocation on the livelihoods of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) during the construction of Juja Market in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study is driven by the idea that proper relocation and resettlement of PAPs can mitigate livelihood losses during infrastructural projects, which are vital for economic growth. Kenya is actively enhancing policies and legal frameworks to protect PAPs' interests during resettlement. The study had three objectives: to analyze the effects of market upgrading temporary relocation on PAPs' livelihoods in Juja Market, to examine PAPs' participation in relocation plans, and to assess the impact of relocation restoration packages on minimizing livelihood losses during the market's construction. It was grounded on Sustainable Livelihood Theory and the Impoverishment Risk and Reconstruction Model, involving 124 respondents selected through simple random and purposive sampling. Data analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings indicate that PAPs faced decreased sales, insufficient trading space, and disrupted networks due to relocation. The primary reason for increased livelihood losses was the government's inadequate preparation and lack of thorough engagement with affected individuals. The study suggests the county government should establish well-equipped, strategically located temporary sites to support traders, enhance transparent communication channels for stakeholder participation, and create participatory forums for co- designing and implementing restoration strategies.

Occupational therapy in the Snoezelen® Room: Teachers’ and therapists’ knowledge and perceptions of the changes in children's behaviour and performance

Introduction: The Snoezelen® room, a multisensory environment (MSE), is often used in conjunction with sensory integrative techniques. Therefore, it may be of support in school-based occupational therapy intervention. Research has documented positive changes in children’s performance in the MSE. However, research to suggest that changes could be carried over to external environments is limited. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and perception of teachers and therapists regarding changes in children's behaviour and performance after therapy in the Snoezelen® room. Methodology: A descriptive quantitative cross-sectional survey design by purposive sampling was used. Teachers and therapists working with children who received occupational therapy intervention in the Snoezelen® room participated. Results: Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to determine strong positive, significant correlations found between the total impact of the Snoezelen® room and the children’s level of arousal, as well as their behaviour and scholastic performance, as conveyed by 30 participants. After therapy in the Snoezelen® room, improvement in level of arousal was ranked as the biggest change, which appeared to improve for hours upon return to the classroom. Conclusion: Children’s arousal levels changed positively due to sensory input, which carried over to the external environment. Due to this, most teachers and therapists perceived that the Snoezelen® room positively changed behaviour and scholastic performance, through improved level of arousal. Implications for practice: The use of Snoezelen® rooms in schools, combined with sensory integration therapy (SIT), enhances children's self-regulation, which in turn positively impacts behaviour and academic performance. Strong, positive correlations were found between children's level of arousal and improvements in their behaviour and scholastic performance. Thus, Occupational therapy interventions in the Snoezelen® room significantly contribute to children’s ability to self-regulate, a key factor in achieving positive classroom behaviour and learning outcomes. Teachers and therapists perceive Snoezelen® rooms as beneficial, with 96.7% supporting their presence on school campuses to improve child behaviour through better self-regulation. Consistent with extensive research surrounding self-regulation of children, acquiring self-regulation skills in the early years lays the foundation for positive classroom behaviour and academic performance later.

INFLUENCE OF FARMER MARKETING STRATEGIES AND WATER USERS ASSOCIATIONS ON PERFORMANCE OF SMALLHOLDER IRRIGATION PROJECTS IN MIGORI COUNTY, KENYA

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate influence of farmer marketing strategies and water users associations on performance of smallholder irrigation projects, and was aimed at enhancing smallholder irrigation project outcome success in Migori County, Kenya. Theoretical Framework: The study was anchored on market orientation theory by Kohli and Jaworski (1990) and Narver and Slater (1990). This is because market orientation explains relationship between markets and organisational behaviour (Gotteland et al., 2007). Kohli and Jaworski (1990) explain customer needs, market competition and usefulness of a product as interacting to influence its marketability. Method: Using cross-sectional and correlational research design, the study collected data from 341 farmers out of a target population of 2815 in 15 smallholder irrigation projects in Migori County using a 5-Point Likert Scale questionnaire. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results and Discussion: The results show that farmer marketing strategies accounts for 64.1% of findings in the model, with group marketing having the most significant influence on performance. The results also show that introduction of water users associations increases coefficient of determination (Δr2) by + 0.121, indicating a positive modest moderating influence on the relationship between predictor and dependent variables. Research Implications: The study confirms that farmer marketing strategies influence performance of smallholder irrigation projects, and that water users associations positively but modestly influence the relationship. Empirically, the study highlights the importance of cooperative societies, agro-processing and irrigation management transfer in smallholder irrigation. Originality/Value: This study adds to empirical data on farmer marketing strategies, water users associations and smallholder irrigation. In highlighting these aspects, the findings have potential to benefit development agencies in smallholder irrigation.

THE EFFECT OF THE FIRST INTRADETRUSOR BOTULINUM TOXIN INJECTION ON FUNCTIONAL INDEPENDENCE, QUALITY OF LIFE, PAIN AND SPASMS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

After a spinal cord injury (SCI) practically all patients experience neurogenic bladder dysfunction. The botulinum toxin type A is a procedure for treating urological complications in these patients. The objective this study was to analyze whether individuals with traumatic SCI have improved functionality, quality of life (QoL), pain, and spasms after the first application of intradetrusor botulinum toxin type A. A prospective longitudinal observational study was developed with twenty patients with traumatic SCI followed up in a rehabilitation center. The patients were evaluated before, one and four months after the first application of intradetrusor botulinum toxin type A. The instruments used were: Spinal Cord Independence Measure III (SCIM III) and Qualiveen-SF, to assess functionality and QoL, respectively; Numeric Rating Scale for pain assessment and the Penn Scale to assess the spasms. Descriptive and inferential (p <0.05) statistics were perfomed. Of the patients evaluated, 90% were men, and 80% had paraplegia. In the first month after applying botulinum toxin type A, there was improvement in the domain related to sphincter control of SCIM III (p=0.02). There was no statistically significant difference in the QoL, pain intensity, frequency and severity of spasms before application of botulinum toxin and after 1 and 4 months (p>0.05). The first application of intradetrusor botulinum toxin type A interfered positively functional independence related to sphincter control in the first month after application, but did not influence the pain, spasm and QoL.

Characterisation and calibration of multiversal methods

AbstractMultiverse Analysis is a heuristic for robust multiple models estimation where data fit many connected specifications of the same abstract model, instead of a singular or a small selection of specifications. Differently from the canonical application of multimodels, in Multiverse Analysis the probabilities of the specifications to be included in the analysis are never assumed independent of each other. Grounded in this consideration, this study provides a compact statistical characterisation of the process of elicitation of the specifications in Multiverse Analysis and conceptually adjacent methods, connecting previous insights from meta-analytical Statistics, model averaging, Network Theory, Information Theory, and Causal Inference. The calibration of the multiversal estimates is treated with references to the adoption of Bayesian Model Averaging vs. alternatives. In the applications, it is checked the theory that Bayesian Model Averaging reduces both error and uncertainty for well-specified multiversal models but amplifies errors when a collider variable is included in the multiversal model. In well-specified models, alternatives do not perform better than Uniform weighting of the estimates, so the adoption of a gold standard remains ambiguous. Normative implications for misinterpretation of Multiverse Analysis and future directions of research are discussed.