Rank Correlation Test Research Articles

The Relationship between Characteristics, Attitudes and Community Participation on CSR Program Performance

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a company's commitment to behaving ethically and contributing to sustainable development. CSR is implemented through collaboration with company stakeholders to improve people's lives. CSR prioritizes balancing the company's financial, social and environmental aspects. This research aims to determine the relationship between attitudes, participation and community characteristics on the performance of the CSR program by PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Fuel Terminal Samarinda. This study uses a quantitative approach. The total number of respondents who will be included in this research is 90 people who are members of the community who participate in the Bank Ramli CSR program by PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Fuel Terminal Samarinda. The Spearman Rank correlation test will be used to measure the relationship between variables such as characteristics, attitudes and community participation on CSR program performance. This research found that community characteristics such as community income and level of knowledge have a significant correlation with CSR program performance, while other characteristics such as gender, age, education, number of family dependents, and employment do not have a significant influence on CSR program performance. Community attitudes in the affective aspect have a significant positive correlation with the company's responsibility towards society. Apart from that, community participation in the aspect of enjoying the program also has a very significant correlation to company profits and the company's responsibility towards the community.

CORRELATION BETWEEN BODY MASS INDEX WITH BLOOD PRESSURE SYSTOLIC AND DIASTOLIC STUDY IN FACULTY OF MEDICINE UNIVERSITAS SWADAYA GUNUNG JATI

Background: An increase in body mass index significantly excess fat in the body. It can affect blood pressure through sympathetic nerve pathways, renin-angiostensin and inflammation. Fat deposits on blood vessel walls cause atherosclerosis, narrowing, increasing blood pressure, and increasing heart work. So that BMI can be a contributing factor to cardiovascular disease. Objective: Knowing the correlation between body mass index and blood pressure in medical students of Universitas Swadaya Gunung Jati (UGJ) Methods: This research is an analytic observational study with a Cross Sectional design. The correlation analysis method uses the Spearman rank correlation test. The measuring instruments used include weight scales, microtoice, and digital tension. Respondents totaled 262 preclinic students from the Faculty of Medicine UGJ. Results: Based on the spearman rank correlation test, a significant correlation was found between body mass index with systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The p-value for both is (p=0.000), indicating a correlation. The strength of the correlation was weak positive with values of (r=0.375) for systolic blood pressure and (r=0.337) for diastolic blood pressure. That is, higher the BMI of a person, the higher the blood pressure. Conclusion: There is a significant correlation with weak positive strength between body mass index with systolic and diastolic blood pressure in Medical Students. Keywords: Body Mass Index, Blood Pressure, Faculty od Medicine, Hypertension, Obesity

Meta analysis of the prevalence of subclinical mastitis in dairy cattle

Mastitis, which is defined as the inflammation of mammary tissue caused by infectious agents such as bacteria, yeast, fungi and viruses, is considered to be one of the most important problems of dairy enterprises due to reduced milk yield and milk quality. Therefore, studies on mastitis have been continuous from past to present. The presence of too many studies conducted in all around the world in order to estimate the prevalence of mastitis and to determine the factors affecting the disease has necessitated systematic review or meta-analysis studies on this subject. In this study, it was aimed to perform the meta-analysis for the prevalence of cow and udder quarter-based subclinical mastitis in 193 studies conducted around the world, and to determine the effects of some factors on the prevalence of subclinical mastitis using subgroup and meta-regression methods. Because high heterogeneity was detected between studies in the analysis, the random effects model (Der Simonian-Laird method) (Q=15149.869, df=188, p<0.001, I2=98.759; Q=72142.706; df=174, p<0.001; I2=99.774) was used in this study. The publication biases in the study samples were determined by the use of Egger's linear regression test, the Begg and Mazumdar rank correlation test and funnel plots. As a result of the study, the common prevalence of subclinical mastitis in cow and udder quarter-based studies were calculated as 0.46 (95% CI: 0.43-0.48) and 0.32 (95% CI: 0.30-0.34) respectively. The meta-analysis conducted in this study has enabled the elimination of inconsistencies in the prevalence of subclinical mastitis in individual studies conducted around the world, and has provided a stronger and more precise estimate.

The Correlation Of Competence, Independence, Accountability And Compliance With The Code Of Ethics With The Auditor Performances In Inspectorate Of Bengkulu City

The purpose of this study was to analyze the correlation between competence, independence, accountability, and compliance with the code of ethics with the auditor performances in Inspectorate of Bengkulu City. The relationship can be determined by analyzing the correlation between the four variables with the performance of auditors by distributing questionnaires to professional auditor. The analysis method used in this study was Rank Spearman Correlation Test.
 Partial correlation test results on the four independent variables, it is known that which has the closest correlation with the auditor performances in Inspectorate of Bengkulu Province is accountability, with a value of correlation is 0.691. Furthermore Spearman rank correlation test for all independent variables with the auditor performances showed a correlation coefficient 0.697 with a degree of error (α = 5%) where the count rs > rs table. This means that H0 is rejected and H1 is accepted, so it can be concluded that: there is a real and significant correlation between competence, independence, accountability and compliance with the code of ethics with the auditor performances in Inspectorate of Bengkulu City.

Dental Stem Cell-Based Therapy for Glycemic Control and the Scope of Clinical Translation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The tooth is a repository of stem cells, garnering interest in recent years for its therapeutic potential. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to test the hypothesis that dental stem cell administration can reduce blood glucose and ameliorate polyneuropathy in diabetes mellitus. The scope of clinical translation was also assessed. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane, Ovid, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for animal studies that were published in or before July 2023. A search was conducted in OpenGrey for unpublished manuscripts. Subgroup analyses were performed to identify potential sources of heterogeneity among studies. The risk for publication bias was assessed by funnel plot, regression, and rank correlation tests. Internal validity, external validity, and translation potential were determined using the SYRCLE (Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation) risk of bias tool and comparative analysis. Results: Out of 5031 initial records identified, 17 animal studies were included in the review. There was a significant decrease in blood glucose in diabetes-induced animals following DSC administration compared to that observed with saline or vehicle (SMD: −3.905; 95% CI: −5.633 to −2.177; p = 0.0004). The improvement in sensory nerve conduction velocity (SMD: 4.4952; 95% CI: 0.5959 to 8.3945; p = 0.035) and capillary-muscle ratio (SMD: 2.4027; 95% CI: 0.8923 to 3.9132; p = 0.0095) was significant. However, motor nerve conduction velocity (SMD: 3.1001; 95% CI: −1.4558 to 7.6559; p = 0.119) and intra-epidermal nerve fiber ratio (SMD: 1.8802; 95% CI: −0.4809 to 4.2413; p = 0.0915) did not increase significantly. Regression (p < 0.0001) and rank correlation (p = 0.0018) tests indicated the presence of funnel plot asymmetry. Due to disparate number of studies in subgroups, the analyses could not reliably explain the sources of heterogeneity. Interpretation: The direction of the data indicates that DSCs can provide good glycemic control in diabetic animals. However, methodological and reporting quality of preclinical studies, heterogeneity, risk of publication bias, and species differences may hamper translation to humans. Appropriate dose, mode of administration, and preparation must be ascertained for safe and effective use in humans. Longer-duration studies that reflect disease complexity and help predict treatment outcomes in clinical settings are warranted. This review is registered in PROSPERO (number CRD42023423423).

The Influence of Sports Habits on Stress Levels of Medical Faculty Students in Surakarta City

Stress is a problem in everyday life that is familiar to everyone, especially medical students. Exercise can reduce stress and improve mental health. If exercise is carried out routinely and regularly, it can reduce the activity of the sympathetic nerves and hypothalamic pituitary adrenals. This study aims to determine the effect of exercise habits on stress levels in students at the Faculty of Medicine in Surakarta City. The research used an analytical observational design with a cross sectional approach, with a sample size of 136 respondents consisting of 4 groups/generations. This research uses observation, interviews and questionnaires. Obtaining data from direct interviews with several students who were samples from this research was to identify exercise habits with the IPAQ (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) which were classified into 3, namely light, moderate, high and the level of stress experienced by students using the KPDS (Kessler questionnaire Psychological Distress Scale). The research results were tested using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient test. The results of the research show that there is an influence of exercise habits on the stress levels of Medical Faculty students, with a value of sig. (1-tailed) is 0.009, this value is smaller than the critical limit α = 0.01 (0.009 < 0.01), meaning there is a significant relationship or influence between exercise habits and stress levels.

Christian Nurses' Calling and Career Commitment in Indonesia: A Cross Sectional Study

Calling is a strategy for discovering the purpose and significance of every individual, including the nurse. The awareness of a calling can motivate nurses to commit to a career. The greater nurses' awareness of their calling, the greater their devotion and sense of purpose in their work. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between calling and career commitment among Christian nurses in Indonesia. The study utilized a quantitative correlational method and cross-sectional approaches utilizing online survey technique. Accidental sampling was utilized, obtaining 96 Indonesian Christian nurses. The instruments were the Indonesian version of the Calling and Vocation Questionnaire (CVQ) (Alpha Cronbach = 0.873) and the Career Commitment Scale (CCS) questionnaire (Alpha Cronbach = 0.820). Data was analyzed using descriptive and bivariate analysis using Spearman rank correlation test. This study discovered a moderately positive correlation between a nurse's calling and career commitment (p = 0.001; r = 0.362). It is suggested that future research investigates other factors that may affect the nurse's career commitment. Understanding one's own calling as a nurse and acting on it is essential to increasing nurses' commitment to their profession.

Correlation of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Actions of Coffee Farmers in Implementing Good Agriculture Practice (GAP) in Solok District

Implementation of Good Agriculture Practice (GAP) in coffee farming as an effort to increase productivity. However, many farmers do not apply good cultivation techniques in their farming activities. research aims to analyze the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and actions of farmers in implementing GAP. The method used was a survey and sampling technique using non-probability sampling (saturated sampling) of 120 Arabica coffee farmers in Lembah Gumanti and Pantai Cermin Districts, Solok Regency. Data were analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics from the results of frequency distribution tables and correlation analysis using Spearman Rank correlation test calculations. The analysis results show that farmers' knowledge of implementing GAP is high, and farmers' attitudes are quite good, while farmers' actions in implementing GAP are in the inappropriate category. Correlation analysis shows a significant relationship (significance 0.05) between knowledge, attitudes, and attitudes towards farmer actions (p= 0.00). There is no significant relationship between knowledge and action (p=0.974). In implementing GAP, farmers need to be given continuous counseling so that their attitudes and knowledge improve and farmers have high motivation to implement GAP.

Gender, Ethnicity, Family Socio-Economics, and Grit (A Islamic Higher Education Students Context)

Grit is a non-cognitive factor that is crucial in achieving success in education. The purpose of this study is to verify differences in grit and its two aspects (consistency and perseverance) between gender and ethnicity in Islamic higher education students. The study also verified the correlation between parents' education levels, family economic background, grit total, consistency of interest, and perseverance of effort. This research is field research with a quantitative approach. The participants amounted to 267 students of Antasari State Islamic University. Convenience techniques and snowballing sampling determined participants. Researchers used descriptive statistics, the Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis H, and Spearman's Rank Correlation test to analyze the data. The results showed no significant differences in total grit levels and its aspects between gender and ethnicity (Sig.>0.005). Dayak ethnic minorities are more persistent and grittier than the majority ethnicity, Banjar, but not significant. Parental education does not correlate with total grit and both aspects. The influence of gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic background on grit is also determined by the type of education students attend.

DIETARY COMPLIANCE OF ELDERLY WITH GOUT IS INCREASING WITH THE KNOWLEDGE INCREASEMENT

Gout is a disease that is experienced by many elderly people. Gout treatment management can be successful with the sufferer's compliance, especially diet compliance. To be able to adhere with the diet that must be followed, elderly people need to have good knowledge about their disease. More than half of the elderly in Kauman Village, Tulungagung who were found during the initial data collection had limited melinjo-based foods but had not limited other foods that increase uric acid levels even though most had received education about gout. This study determine wheter there are relationship between knowledge about gout and dietary compliance in elder people with gout in Kauman, Tulungagung or not. This study was cross sectional research with 187 respondents. Spearmen rank correlation test result showed a significance value (0.000) with 0.728 of coefficient value. Knowledge about gout showed positive and strong relationship with dietary compliance in elderly people with gout. It can be inferred that the better knowledge, the better and higher respondents dietary compliance

Prevalence and outcomes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in COVID-19 presents challenges in patient management. Existing studies lack comprehensive review due to varied designs, samples, and demographics. A meta-analysis can provide valuable insights into the incidence, features, and outcomes of UGIB in COVID-19. A comprehensive literature search was carried out using several databases. We considered all appropriate observational studies from all over the world. Mantel-Haenszel odds ratios and associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were produced to report the overall effect size using random effect models. Besides, Random effects models were used to calculate the overall pooled prevalence. Funnel plots, Egger regression tests, and Begg-Mazumdar's rank correlation test were used to appraise publication bias. Data from 21 articles consisting of 26,933 COVID-19 patients were considered. The pooled estimate of UGIB prevalence in patients admitted with COVID-19 across studies was 2.10% (95% CI, 1.23-3.13). Similarly, the overall pooled estimate for severity, mortality, and rebleeding in COVID-19 patients with UGIB was 55% (95% CI, 37.01-72.68), 29% (95% CI, 19.26-40.20) and 12.7% (95% CI, 7.88-18.42) respectively. Further, UGIB in COVID-19 patients was associated with increased odds of severity (OR=3.52, 95% CI 1.80-6.88, P=0.001) and mortality (OR=2.16, 95% CI 1.33-3.51, P=0.002) compared with patients without UGIB. No significant publication bias was evident in the meta-analysis. The results of our study indicate that UGIB in individuals with COVID-19 is linked to negative outcomes such as severe illness, higher mortality rates, and an increased risk of re-bleeding. These findings highlight the significance of identifying UGIB as a significant complication in COVID-19 cases and emphasise the importance of timely clinical assessment and proper treatment.

A Possible Correlation between Metallicity and Near-IR Color for Late-M and L Dwarfs

We examine the relationship between metallicity and J − K color for 64 benchmark late-M and L dwarfs, all of which are wide companions to higher-mass stars, and six of which are new discoveries. We assess the correlation between the Δ(J − K) color anomaly (the difference in an object’s J − K color from the median color for field objects of the same spectral type) and the metallicity of the host star to investigate how metallicity affects ultracool photospheres. Using Spearman’s rank correlation test and Student’s t-test, the late-M dwarf (L dwarf) sample’s Δ(J − K) and metallicity show a positive correlation at the 95% (90%) confidence level. A linear fit to color anomaly as a function of metallicity finds a slope of 0.17 ± 0.07 for the late-M dwarfs and a slope of for the L dwarfs. We also computed the Δ(J − K) versus metallicity relationship predicted by multi-metallicity model spectra generated using Drift-Phoenix. The modeled late-M dwarfs show a slope of 0.202 ± 0.03, which is close to our observational results, but the modeled L dwarfs show a slope of 0.493 ± 0.02, steeper than our observational results. Both our empirical results and the models indicate that more metal-rich objects should appear redder photometrically. We speculate that higher metallicity drives more condensate formation in these atmospheres, thus making these ultracool dwarfs appear redder.

Gaps in cancer care in a multi-ethnic population in Sarawak, Borneo: A central referral centre study.

The state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo in East Malaysia, in working towards developing and strengthening cancer services through a holistic patient-centred approach, must focus on the comprehensive needs of cancer patients by taking into account the psycho-social, cultural and spiritual aspects of Sarawak's multi-ethnic, multi-cultural population. A 42-item survey questionnaire was developed and validated with a total of 443 patients. The perceived importance of information provided and level of patient satisfaction were assessed with a 5-point Likert scale in 10 domains (Diagnosis, Surgery, Radiotherapy, Systemic therapy, Clinical trials, Pain management, Treatment monitoring, Psychosocial support, Sexual care and fertility issues, and Financial support). A Spearman's rank correlation test was applied to determine the correlation between response in both item and domain categories for perceived importance and satisfaction. Overall, patients were more satisfied with information related to cancer diagnosis, treatment and surgery but less satisfied with information pertaining to sexual aspects of care and family planning, psycho-social support and financial support. The majority of patients were satisfied with the level of treatment-related information received but preferred the information to be delivered in more easily comprehendible formats. Sexual aspects of care and family planning, psychosocial support and treatment monitoring post-discharge were perceived as important but seldom addressed by health care professionals due to lack of professional counsellors, social workers and clinical nurse specialists. Many patients face financial toxicity following a cancer diagnosis, particularly when diagnosed with advanced cancer requiring complex multi-modality treatment. Cancer patients in Sarawak have various unmet information needs. Written information and educational videos in local indigenous languages may be more suitable for Sarawak's multi-ethnic population. Sexual aspects of care and family planning are challenging but essential topics to discuss, in particular due to the high prevalence of breast and cervical cancer amongst young women of reproductive age in Sarawak. Financial assessment and information on support services offered by government and non-government organisations should be provided to eligible patients. A holistic needs assessment of each patient at time of diagnosis and support through their cancer journey requires a multi-disciplinary team of medical, nursing and allied health professionals including clinical nurse specialists, pharmacists, counsellors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, dieticians and social workers.

Increased number of dispatches in emergency medical services correlates to response time extension.

This study investigated the correlation between the number of emergency medical service (EMS) dispatches and response time extension. In addition, we conducted a simulation to assess the potential for reducing response times by relocating the ambulance based on the number of dispatches. This retrospective observational study analyzed data on patients treated with EMS between May 1 and June 25, 2021, in an urban area (Chiba City, Japan). Spearman's rank correlation tests were used to analyze the correlations among the number of dispatches, response time extension, and ambulance distance. We created a heat map to visualize the number of dispatches and distribution of emergency case occurrences, and simulated the relocation of the EMS team with the lowest number of dispatches to the closest EMS team with the highest number of dispatches. In total, 7915 emergency cases were included. The median response time across all dispatches was 9 min, whereas that for the response time extension cases was 12 min. There was a significant positive correlation between the increased number of dispatches, response time extension (r = 0.94, p < 0.0001), and ambulance distance (r = 0.95, p < 0.0001). The relocation simulation significantly shortened the average response time from 13 min and 30 s to 12 min and 11 s (9.9% decrease, p < 0.0001). An increased number of dispatches significantly increased the response time extension cases and ambulance distance. Our simulation suggests that EMS relocation can potentially shorten the response time. While increased dispatches influence the response time extension, optimal EMS allocation may improve response times.

Correlation of fatigue on walking ability in myasthenia gravis patients: a cross-sectional study.

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a neuromuscular junction autoimmune disease characterised of intermittent muscle weakness that increases with activity and recovers with rest. Analysing the correlation of fatigue on walking ability in MG patients. This study used a cross-sectional design with consecutive sampling. Participants MG patients took in this trial. Data collection encompasses fatigue and walking ability, with fatigue being assessed using the fatigue severity scale (FSS) and walking ability being assessed using the 10-metre walking test. The 10-metre walking test assessment contains three components: comfortable walking speed (CWS), maximum walking speed (MWS), and natural cadence. The statistical analysis used in this study includes the Pearson correlation and Spearman rank tests with P<0.05. The number of participants was 23 MG patients, and most of the participant was female (69.6%). The participant's fatigue value was 5.46±1.13, including MGFA 1=5.32±1.15, MGFA 2A=5.5±1.11, and MGFA 2B=5.61±1.30. Meanwhile, the participant's walking abilities included CWS of 1.10±0.11m/s, MWS of 1.31±0.15m/s, and natural cadence of 110.91±7.74 steps/min. No significant correlation of fatigue on walking ability including FSS vs. CWS (r=-0.141; P=0.520), FSS vs MWS (r=-0.169; P=0.442), and FSS vs. natural cadence (r=-0.050; P=0.822). There was no significant correlation between fatigue and walking ability in MG patients who had MGFA 1, MGFA 2A, and MGFA 2B.

Targeted Metabolomics Analysis of Serum Amino Acids in T2DM Patients.

Amino acids are the important metabolites in the body and play a crucial role in biological processes. The purpose of this study is to provide a profile of amino acids change in the serum of T2DM patients and identify potential biomarkers. In this study, we quantitatively determined the serum amino acid profiles of 30 T2DM patients and 30 healthy volunteers. T test and multivariate statistical analysis were used to identify candidate biomarkers with GraphPad Prism 9.5 software and MetaboAnalyst 5.0 on-line platform. Thirty-four amino acids were quantified, and 19 amino acid levels differed significantly between T2DM and Healthy groups. Screened by the specific screening criteria (VIP>1.0; P<0.05; FC>1.5, or FC<0.67) in MetaboAnalyst 5.0 platform, 8 amino acids were identified as potential biomarkers. Pearson rank correlation test showed 14 differential amino acids were significantly correlated with T2DM-related physiological parameters. The results of this study provide theoretical basis for the subsequent development of dietary supplements for the prevention or treatment of T2DM and its complications.

C-Reactive Protein Level as a Novel Serum Biomarker in Sarcopenia.

The role of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker, in the development of sarcopenia remains uncertain. This cross-sectional research involved the enrollment of 207 patients, classified into two groups: 74 patients with sarcopenia and 133 patients without sarcopenia. Clinical data of the participants, including hand grip strength, walking speed, appendicular lean mass (ALM), and calf circumference, were collected and recorded. We evaluated the extent to which CRP levels are associated with the risk of sarcopenia using both univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Besides, the correlation between CRP levels, hand grip strength, ALM, and walking speed was examined using the Spearman rank correlation test. Moreover, we have employed the Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis technique to explore the causal relationship between CRP levels and the occurrence of sarcopenia. The sarcopenia group showed a higher proportion of older women, with significant differences in anemia prevalence, calf circumference, gait speed, ALM, hand grip strength, and elevated CRP levels compared to the control group. Logistic regression analyses identified CRP as an independent risk factor for sarcopenia (OR: 1.151, 95% CI:1.070-1.238, and P < 0.001). Correlation analysis results revealed a noteworthy inverse association with hand grip strength (R = -0.454 and P < 0.001), ALM (R = -0.426 and P < 0.001), and walking speed (R = -0.431 and P < 0.001). MR analysis provided further evidence of a significant detrimental link between genetically predicted CRP levels and essential sarcopenia characteristics, with consistent results across various statistical models. Our study uncovered strong evidence supporting a noteworthy inverse association and causality between CRP concentrations and sarcopenia, indicating that CRP has the potential to serve as a biomarker for sarcopenia.

Asian flush is a potential protective factor against COVID-19: a web-based retrospective survey in Japan.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), first reported in December 2019, spread worldwide in a short period, resulting in numerous cases and associated deaths; however, the toll was relatively low in East Asia. A genetic polymorphism unique to East Asians, Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 rs671, has been reported to confer protection against infections. We retrospectively investigated the association between the surrogate marker of the rs671 variant, the skin flushing phenomenon after alcohol consumption, and the timing of COVID-19 incidence using a web-based survey tool to test any protective effects of rs671 against COVID-19. A total of 807 valid responses were received from 362 non-flushers and 445 flushers. During the 42 months, from 12/1/2019 to 5/31/2023, 40.6% of non-flushers and 35.7% of flushers experienced COVID-19. Flushers tended to have a later onset (Spearman's partial rank correlation test, p = 0.057, adjusted for sex and age). Similarly, 2.5% of non-flushers and 0.5% of flushers were hospitalized because of COVID-19. Survival analysis estimated lower risks of COVID-19 and associated hospitalization among flushers (p = 0.03 and <0.01, respectively; generalized Wilcoxon test). With the Cox proportional hazards model covering 21 months till 8/31/2021, when approximately half of the Japanese population had received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine, the hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of COVID-19 incidence was estimated to be 0.21 (0.10-0.46) for flusher versus non-flusher, with adjustment for sex, age, steroid use, and area of residence. Our study suggests an association between the flushing phenomenon after drinking and a decreased risk of COVID-19 morbidity and hospitalization, suggesting that the rs671 variant is a protective factor. This study provides valuable information for infection control and helps understand the unique constitutional diversity of East Asians.

Estimation of Serum Adenosine Deaminase Levels as a Marker for Risk Assessment and Immunomodulation in Patients with Diabetic Foot

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcers are critical complications of uncontrolled diabetes, with peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, and immune suppression as primary contributing factors. Adenosine Deaminase (ADA), an enzyme, has been identified as a promising marker for cell-mediated immunity. Its estimation may serve as a predictive marker for immunomodulation, which, in turn, leads to complications among individuals with diabetes. Aim: To estimate serum ADA levels in diabetic patients without diabetic foot and diabetic patients with diabetic foot. Additionally, the study aimed to investigate the association of ADA serum levels with glucose, Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c), and the severity of wounds. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the central laboratory Department of Biochemistry at Krishna Rajendra Hospital (KR Hospital), Mysuru Medical College and Research Institute, Mysuru, India, from August to September 2021. The study included diabetic foot cases (n=45) and Type 2 diabetes patients on regular follow-up in the Department of Medicine without diabetic foot and any other complications (n=45). Venous blood samples were analysed for ADA, glucose, HbA1c, and complete blood count. The data were statistically analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman rank correlation test. Results: The present study observed a higher incidence of diabetic foot among males. It showed a statistically significant increase in serum ADA, HbA1C, and neutrophil count in patients with diabetic foot compared to patients with diabetes without diabetic foot ulcers, with mean Standard Deviation (SD) of 71.79±25.11, 11.53±3.11%, and 75.91±9.77%, respectively. Serum ADA exhibited a positive correlation with HbA1C and different grades of ulcers. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated a significantly increased serum ADA in diabetic ulcers and a positive correlation with different grades of ulcers. This finding contributes to a better understanding of the disease's pathogenesis at different stages. Furthermore, the positive correlation between ADA and HbA1C levels may play an important role in predicting the glycaemic and immunological status of these patients

Comparison of pain intensity measurements among patients with low-back pain

<p>Pain intensity is the most frequently assessed health domain in clinical studies among patients with low-back pain. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Numeric rating scale (NRS) have been the mostly used measurement tools for pain intensity. We proposed to correlate these instruments to a generic health-related quality of life measurement tool in order to show the scale with superior clinical relevance.</p>. <p>We used cross-sectional, convenience sampling. 120 patients with chronic low-back pain administered the 29-item Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Profile with NRS included, and the VAS scale in the National Institute of Mental Health, Neurology and Neurosurgery. We determined the correlation between PROMIS domain T-scores and VAS and NRS scores.</p>. <p>We performed Spearman rank correlation test to calculate the correlation coefficient. We found VAS scales measuring pain had weak to moderate correlations with all PROMIS health domains (r = 0.24&ndash;0.55). Therefore, we compared correlation of PROMIS domain scores with PROMIS pain intensity numeric rating scale and VAS scales. PROMIS domains had moderate to strong correlations with pain intensity scale (r = 0.45&ndash;0.71). PROMIS physical function short form [r = &ndash;0.65, 95% CI (&ndash;0.75) &ndash; (&ndash;0.55)] and PROMIS pain interference short form (r = 0.71, 95% CI 0.63 &ndash; 0.79) had the strongest correlation with pain intensity item.</p>. <p>NRS has showed greater correlation with PROMIS domain T-scores than VAS scale. This may prove that NRS has greater connection to another health domains, thus it correlated more to health-related quality of life than visual scale. We recommend NRS to use in further clinical studies conducted among patients with low-back pain.</p>.