Reference Materials Research Articles

Cadmium-Assisted Photochemical Vapor Generation of Arsenic from Low Concentration of Formic Acid Media.

A highly sensitive method for the determination of total arsenic (As) has been developed using photochemical vapor generation (PVG) coupled with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP MS). The efficient PVG of As is reported for the first time in the presence of Cd(II) in diluted formic acid (FA) medium. The PVG efficiency of 93 ± 1% can be achieved in the system with 0.15% (v/v) FA and 40.0 mg L-1 Cd(II) under 100 s UV irradiation. The limit of detection (LOD, 3σ) for As was determined to be 0.2 ng L-1, which was enhanced about 43-fold over the traditional solution nebulization method. The anti-interference capability against sample matrices was enhanced compared to previous PVG systems that used diluted formic acid alone or a combination of sodium formate and sodium sulfite as the medium. The established method was applied for the analysis of natural waters and certified reference materials (CRMs) of rice with satisfactory results. The mechanism of the PVG system was investigated, and the generation of volatile As species as AsH3 was found in all investigated systems, including monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), As (III), and As(V). Additionally, volatile cadmium species were also generated simultaneously. The efficient reduction of As in diluted FA observed in this study is beneficial to understanding the interaction between As and Cd in the photochemical process.

Multiplatform metabolomic interlaboratory study of a whole human stool candidate reference material from omnivore and vegan donors.

Human metabolomics has made significant strides in understanding metabolic changes and their implications for human health, with promising applications in diagnostics and treatment, particularly regarding the gut microbiome. However, progress is hampered by issues with data comparability and reproducibility across studies, limiting the translation of these discoveries into practical applications. This study aims to evaluate the fit-for-purpose of a suite of human stool samples as potential candidate reference materials (RMs) and assess the state of the field regarding harmonizing gut metabolomics measurements. An interlaboratory study was conducted with 18 participating institutions. The study allowed for the use of preferred analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Different laboratories used various methods and analytical platforms to identify the metabolites present in human stool RM samples. The study found a 40% to 70% recurrence in the reported top 20 most abundant metabolites across the four materials. In the full annotation list, the percentage of metabolites reported multiple times after nomenclature standardization was 36% (LC-MS), 58% (GC-MS) and 76% (NMR). Out of 9,300 unique metabolites, only 37 were reported across all three measurement techniques. This collaborative exercise emphasized the broad chemical survey possible with multi-technique approaches. Community engagement is essential for the evaluation and characterization of common materials designed to facilitate comparability and ensure data quality underscoring the value of determining current practices, challenges, and progress of a field through interlaboratory studies.

A novel short-wavelength near-infrared certified reference material from dysprosium and ytterbium oxides

A novel short-wavelength near-infrared certified reference material from dysprosium and ytterbium oxides

Development and Validation of Polymer-based Porphyrin-Incorporated Reference Materials for Calibration of Quantitative Light-induced Fluorescence device.

This study aimed at developing and validating polymer-based reference materials with varying amounts of porphyrin to accurately assess and calibrate quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) device. Reference materials with porphyrin concentrations ranging from 0 to 0.08 wt.% were prepared. The surface properties of the materials were analyzed via gloss and roughness measurements. Color analysis of the specimens was performed on black and white backgrounds with or without filters using a spectrophotometer. This approach revealed the correlations between fluorescence and color. The fluorescence emitted by the specimens was analyzed by measuring ΔR and ΔRmax values using a QLF-D BiluminatorTM. The surface gloss and roughness of the reference materials were not affected by the porphyrin content (p > 0.005). Spectrophotometric measurements revealed significant color differences among most specimen groups depending on the background color and the presence of a filter. QLF-D imaging revealed significant differences in fluorescence (ΔR and ΔRmax) among all specimen groups regardless of the background. The fluorescence values observed on the black backgrounds were higher than those observed on the white backgrounds (p < 0.05). The developed polymer-based porphyrin-incorporated materials serve as reliable reference standards for accurate assessment and calibration of QLF devices. This study demonstrates the importance of background conditions in fluorescence detection and highlights the potential of these materials as standards for QLF device calibration.

Assessment of microplastics in the sediments around Hywind Scotland Offshore Wind Farm

Abstract Leading edge erosion of turbine blades is hypothesized to be a source of microplastic (MP; 1-5000 µm) emissions from offshore wind farms (OWFs) to the marine environment. Given the higher density of rotor blade coating and leading-edge protection (LEP) materials than seawater, released MP are expected to enter the surrounding waters and sink to the sediments, where the highest concentrations may be expected in the sediments in and around the OWF infrastructure. Here, we present a methodological approach for the quantification and characterisation of coating and LEP MPs (&gt;300 µm) in sediments, applied to samples collected from 15 locations around the Hywind Scotland floating OWF. To validate the approach, reference materials were produced from the different coating layers and LEP material and used to generate library IR spectra and mass spectra so that such particles could be robustly identified if present in the sediment samples. The reference materials were also used to evaluate particle integrity and recovery across the sample preparation applied to real samples (ZnCl2 density separation, filtration). Results suggested the LEP material was unaffected by the sample processing, but fragmentation was observed for the two coating layers studied, leading to an increase in the number of particles and a decrease in weight due to loss of particles &lt;300 µm. After isolation, particles were evaluated using microscopy and suspected MP particles were identified and subjected to a detailed chemical characterisation by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In the field samples, twenty particles were confirmed as MP, but none had polymer compositions matching the coatings and LEP materials, instead representing common thermoplastics in the form of flakes, films, fragments, and filaments.

Existence of independent learning curriculum and portrait of ideal curriculum management in laboratory schools

Each schools have the autonomous right to manage and develop an independent curriculum according to its potential. However, the implementation of the independent learning curriculum is dependent on proper management at the school level, so there may be obstacles faced by schools in managing the independent learning curriculum. The purpose of this study is to investigate the concept and problems, as well as school strategies in managing an independent learning curriculum in laboratory schools. This research was studied qualitatively with a multi-site study design. Data collection was conducted through focus group discussions (FGDs) with semistructured interviews, observations, and documentation studies. Data validity was checked using source triangulation, discussion among fellow researchers, and adequacy of reference materials. Data analysis techniques used constant comparative analysis. The results show that learning activities in the independent curriculum emphasize character education and the achievement of students' happiness in learning, and schools implement differentiated learning and simplify the values contained in P5 through projects and fun learning. This research contributes theoretically and practically, by complementing previous literature and can be a guide for school managers in order to ideally manage an independent curriculum.

Notes from (art) Song Lab: A Generative Model for Song Collaborations

Abstract: Song collaborations are a mainstay for pianists who work in vocal repertoire. Those experiences are foundational for exploring singer-pianist relationships, but they rarely address the relationships with composers or text authors. There are few reference materials for composer-performer collaborations, and none that document the triangular connections between composers, poets, and performers. In June 2024, (art) Song Lab celebrated its thirteenth year of fostering these collaborations. This column explores the how and why of these creative combinations, with analysis of new approaches to productive communication, augmented musicianship, and healthy respect for the creative integrity among all participants.

An accurate measurement method for serum homocysteine measurement by ID-LC/MS/MS and the application of external quality assessment.

Serum homocysteine (Hcy) measurement accuracy is essential for detecting and diagnosing cardio-cerebrovascular illnesses. Although many different methods have been developed to determine the concentration of Hcy, those different assays showed nonequivalent results. This study aimed to develop an accurate and precise isotope dilution liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (ID-LC/MS/MS) method for serum homocysteine (Hcy) and assign values for reference materials used in external quality assessment (EQA) programs. Different concentrations of homocysteine calibration solutions were prepared with d4-Hcy as the internal standard. This method employed DTT to reduce protein-bound Hcy, followed by protein precipitation, and gradient elution on a Supelcosil LC-CN column for chromatographic separation, and multiple reaction monitor (MRM) mode with electrospray ionization (ESI) for mass spectrometric detection. After optimized ID-LC/MS/MS parameters, imprecision, trueness, the limit of quantification (LoQ), the limit of detection (LoD), and measurement uncertainty were evaluated to check the methodological performance. The established method was employed in assigning values to EQA samples, which were sent to 63 clinical laboratories in Beijing to measure Hcy. At 10.69,15.99, and 37.80 μmol/L levels, the present method demonstrated analytical imprecision of 0.57 %, 0.65 %, and 0.57 %, and recoveries of 99.67 % to 100.21 %, respectively. The bias between the target values of GBW (Guojia Biaozhun Wuzhi) were - 0.79 % to 0.62 %. The LoQ and LoD for Hcy were 0.36 nmol/L and 0.27 nmol/L. The method had an uncertainty (U 95 %) of 1.34 % to 1.48 %. For the three levels of EQA samples, the percentage of laboratories meeting the trueness evaluation criteria (±10 %) was 81.67 %, 83.33 %, and 71.67 % respectively. With optimal method precision and trueness, the ID-LC/MS/MS method to measure serum Hcy can be used for value assignment of EQA samples, which can provide reliable data for monitoring the accuracy of clinical laboratory for Hcy measurement.

Development and validation of an LC-MS/MS method for highly concentrated tacrolimus and cyclosporine samples prepared from pharmaceutical products to assess drug loss from feeding tubes

IntroductionTacrolimus and cyclosporine are common immunosuppressants utilized post-organ transplantation to manage allograft rejection. Both have narrow therapeutic indices and are frequently measured to support dose adjustments. Although nasogastric tubes are commonly used to provide nutritional support and serve as a route for immunosuppressant administration, they were never validated for such purposes. ObjectiveTo develop and validate a liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for highly concentrated tacrolimus and cyclosporine samples prepared from pharmaceutical products to support the validation of feeding tube administration of these immunosuppressants. MethodsThe method involved stepwise dilutions with dimethyl sulfoxide before analysis using online sample preparation and LC-MS/MS. It was validated in a CLIA-certified clinical laboratory that measures immunosuppressants by LC-MS/MS and is designed to support clinical studies evaluating drug loss from feeding tubes. ResultsThe method was linear between 6.8 µg/mL and 75 µg/mL for tacrolimus, and between 0.9 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL for cyclosporine, with r2 > 0.99 and total precision <5 % at all QC levels. The method demonstrated good recovery using certified cyclosporine reference material, European pharmacopeia reference standard tacrolimus, and prepared pharmaceutical products. Minimal matrix effects were observed. ConclusionAn analytical method was developed and validated for in vitro studies with simulated administration of tacrolimus or cyclosporine to assess loss during drug administration using feeding tubes.

The Role of Character Education and Religious Values in Prevention of Sexual Violence

Discussion on national character has been included in the legal regulation, that every Indonesian society is expected to be an individual who understands morals and is accustomed to doing good things in life. Developments in the era of globalization are increasingly massive, ultimately having an impact on the elimination of national character. In the end, several problems arise due to the shift in national character, one of which is the occurrence of free association which has an impact on sexual harassment. This study uses a library research method by utilizing secondary data as reference material. In an effort to prevent sexual harassment, character education and the application of religious values for an individual are very important. Because these two things can ultimately lead an individual to maintain association; manners; politeness; and norms taught in religious values.

Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of Co-Cr Dental Alloys Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion: Evaluation of Quenching and Annealing as Heat Treatment Methods

Residual stresses and anisotropic structures characterize laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) products due to rapid thermal changes during fabrication, potentially leading to microcracking and lower strength. Post-heat treatments are crucial for enhancing mechanical properties. Numerous dental technology laboratories worldwide are adopting the new technologies but must invest considerable time and resources to refine them for specific requirements. Our research can assist researchers in identifying thermal processes that enhance the mechanical properties of dental Co-Cr alloys. In this study, high cooling rates (quenching) and annealing after quenching were evaluated for L-PBF Co-Cr dental alloys. Cast samples (standard manufacturing method) were tested as a second reference material. Tensile strength, Vickers hardness, microstructure characterization, and phase identification were performed. Significant differences were found among the L-PBF groups and the cast samples. The lowest tensile strength (707 MPa) and hardness (345 HV) were observed for cast Starbond COS. The highest mechanical properties (1389 MPa, 535 HV) were observed for the samples subjected to the water quenching and reheating methods. XRD analysis revealed that the face-centered cubic (FCC) and hexagonal close-packed (HCP) phases are influenced by the composition and heat treatment. Annealing after quenching improved the microstructure homogeneity and increased the HCP content. L-PBF techniques yielded superior mechanical properties compared to traditional casting methods, offering efficiency and precision. Future research should focus on fatigue properties.

The Effect of K-Beauty Franchise Selection Attributes on Brand Satisfaction and Continuous Use Intention: Mediating Effect of Brand Experience

This study analyzed the effect of K-beauty franchise selection attributes on brand satisfaction and continuous use intention, focusing on the mediating effect of brand experience. This study targeted foreign beauty consumers who have experienced K-beauty franchises. Using quantitative research methods, seven hypotheses were verified. The results indicated that selection attributes, such as service expertise, reliability, price, and store image, significantly effect brand experience and brand satisfaction. Also, brand experience, including aesthetic, entertainment, educational, and escapist experiences, was verified to mediate the relationship between selection attributes and brand satisfaction. Through the above results, this study provided theoretical and practical guidance and reference materials for the global strategic development of K-beauty franchises.

Bibliometric Analysis of Reference Materials and Certified Reference Materials Applied to Geochemistry

The use of reference materials (RMs) and certified reference materials (CRMs) is essential to guarantee the reliability of measurement procedures ‐ a major factor motivating the efforts of the geoanalytical community. This work quantifies trends and patterns in the scientific literature concerning RMs and CRMs in geochemistry for specific timespans, with the aim of evaluating historical developments, research fields, geographic shifts of research centres, and current trends. The Scopus database was surveyed for peer‐reviewed full‐texts (14,201 documents), which were subsequently exploited for statistical description, bibliometric mapping and cluster analysis. Mineral exploration and trace element geochemistry stimulated early research, whereas environmental subjects have grown in importance mainly since the year 2000. International standardisation was coincident with an increase of publications covering CRMs and geochemistry, and is thought to reflect the impact of ISO guidelines in this scientific activity. Other factors include investments in research facilities, creation of specialised geoanalytical journals and organisation of international meetings. The analysis shows that RMs are typically used for petrogenetic research topics, whereas CRMs are equally important for environmental sciences, chemistry and geosciences. Environmental sciences are mostly concerned with anthropogenic contamination of ecosystems by heavy metals, whereas geological interest is mainly driven by isotope geochemistry. Scientific frontiers in geoanalytical research comprise microanalytical methodologies, unconventional isotopes, rare earth elements and environmental monitoring. New trends in CRM applications also include biogeochemistry and radionuclides.

USING RETROSPECTIVE DATA TO ASSESS THE UNCERTAINTY OF INDICATORS OF BIOLOGICAL SAFETY OF FOOD AND FEED RAW MATERIALS

The results of the analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of the use of retrospective data for the implementation of the evaluation of uncertainty in the measurement of indicators of biological safety of food and feed raw materials are given. The model measurement procedure used quantitative determination of genetically modified organisms by means of polymerase chain reaction in real time 250 measurement results of certified reference material with a content of 0.1% genetically modified soybean line obtained under conditions of intra-laboratory reproducibility and 10 results of relevant inter-laboratory comparisons with the participation accredited provider. The suitability of retrospective data was assessed by the Shapiro-Wilk criterion and statistical controllability analysis using standardized score charts and modified Shewhart charts, uncertainty by 4 methods described in general and branch international guidelines and regulations. The results of using a combination of modified Shewhart maps demonstrate the acceptability of this approach for establishing the suitability of retrospective measurement results as input data for uncertainty assessment. By integrating additional "fitness limits" to a set of standardized control limits, this analysis acquires the ability to simultaneously establish not only stability, through the interpretation of geometric patterns, but also compliance with specific criteria. Using this approach, objective evidence of the suitability of retrospective data for estimating measurement uncertainty was obtained. The distribution of retrospective data obtained under conditions of intralaboratory reproducibility is assumed to be normal. As a result of the assessment of statistical controllability and compliance with the established criteria, objective evidence of the suitability of the data for uncertainty assessment was obtained. Analysis of uncertainty intervals of subgroups with the volume of 25 measurements, using 4 assessment methods, demonstrated significant variability in the results of measuring biological safety indicators. The uncertainty interval could narrow or widen by almost 100% of the value within fifty measurements. Median values obtained using different uncertainty estimation methods were 2.69%, 22.69%, 39.23, and 43.08%. This variability is due to the limited coverage of sources of uncertainty, which is inherent in each of the analyzed methods. The most optimal method is the evaluation based on the routine measurement of the certified reference material. Retrospective results of routine measurement of certified reference material and interlaboratory comparisons are an effective source of input data for assessing the uncertainty of the results of measuring biological safety indicators of agricultural raw materials. There is a need for further research to establish an assessment model that will provide an opportunity to take into account the optimal number of influential sources of uncertainty that are inherent in biological systems and cannot be simultaneously taken into account using existing approaches offered by standard assessment methods.

Using Bland-Altman plot-based harmonization algorithm to optimize the harmonization for immunoassays.

Harmonization has been recommended by theInternational Organization for Standard (ISO) to achieve equivalent results across invitro diagnostic measurement devices (IVD-MDs). We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of Bland-Altman plot-based harmonization algorithm (BA-BHA) created in this study and compare it with weighted Deming regression-based harmonization algorithm (WD-BHA) proposed in ISO 21151:2020. Eighty patient sera were used as the harmonization reference material (HRM) to develop IVD-MD-specific harmonization algorithms. Another panel of 40 patient sera was used to validate the effectiveness of harmonization algorithms. We compared regression slopes, intercepts, Bland-Altman plot layouts, percent differences, limits of agreement (LoAs), between-method coefficients of variation (CV) before and after harmonization. After harmonization by WD-BHA, acceptable slopes and intercepts between measured values and HRM targets were observed in weighted Deming regression, but not in Passing-Bablok analysis. Mean differences were-5.5 to 5.0 % and differences at specific levels were-33.9 to 23.9 %. LoAs were-64.6 to 74.6 %. Between-method CV was 22.9 % (±12.9 %). However, after harmonization by BA-BHA, both weighted Deming and Passing-Bablok regressions equations presented harmonized results. Mean differences were-0.3 to 0.2 % and differences at specific levels were-1.1 to 1.6 %. LoAs were-23.3 to 23.2 %. Between-method CV was 8.4 % (±4.0 %). The data points were evenly distributed at both sides of the mean in Bland-Altman plots. The inequivalence of test results between different methods can be improved but unacceptable analytical differences at specific levels may be hidden in terms of an acceptable slope and intercept on WD-BHA. The new protocol BA-BHA may be a viable alternative to optimize the harmonization for immunoassays.

Relationship between lipoprotein(a) and endogenous fibrinolytic status in patients with STEMI

Abstract Background The risk of myocardial infarction is at least doubled in individuals with lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) levels &amp;gt;90th percentile.[1] Lp(a) may exert pro-thrombotic effects by impairing fibrinolysis. Lp(a) has a high degree of homology to plasminogen and can competitively inhibit tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)-mediated plasminogen activation and tPA-mediated clot lysis.[2] Furthermore, Lp(a) stimulates the activity of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, the major inhibitor of the fibrinolytic system. In patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), impaired endogenous fibrinolysis is a strong, independent risk factor for recurrent cardiovascular events,[3] but the drivers of this are not fully understood. Whether impaired endogenous fibrinolysis is related to increased Lp(a) levels in patients with STEMI, is not known. Purpose We aimed to assess the relationship between Lp(a) and endogenous fibrinolysis in patients with STEMI. Methods In a prospective, observational study, venous blood samples were drawn from patients presenting with STEMI immediately before revascularisation, after dual antiplatelet therapy but before heparin administration. Endogenous fibrinolysis was measured immediately in non-anticoagulated whole blood using the point-of-care Global Thrombosis Test, which measures the time for occlusive thrombus formation under high shear (occlusion time) and the time for spontaneous lysis of the thrombus (lysis time).[3] Assessment of Lp(a) levels, measured by particle enhanced immunoturbidimetric assay, was performed with paired plasma samples, standardized against the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry reference material SRM2B for nmol/L. Lp(a) &amp;gt;32 nmol/L is associated with increased risk of ischaemic heart disease. Results A total of 80 patients were included (age 64±14y, 25% females and 86% Caucasian). There was a positive correlation between Lp(a) level and lysis time (r = 0.330, P = 0.003) (Figure 1). Lysis time was significantly longer in patients with Lp(a) &amp;gt;32 nmol/L (2782 [1626-3683] vs. 1725 [1259-2955] s, P = 0.044). Using a cut-point of lysis time ≥2500 s previously associated with a significantly increased cardiovascular risk in patients with STEMI, we showed that Lp(a) was significantly higher in patients with lysis time ≥2500 s (40 (22-111) vs. 18 (7-73) nmol/L, P = 0.045). Table 1 shows the relationship between clinical characteristics and Lp(a) and lysis time. Lp(a) level was higher in non-Caucasian patients. There was no correlation between Lp(a) and occlusion time (r = 0.156, P = 0.168). Conclusion In patients with STEMI, longer endogenous fibrinolysis time is related to higher Lp(a) level. Raised Lp(a) levels may, in part, contribute to impaired endogenous fibrinolysis. Future studies are required to assess whether reduction in Lp(a) with novel therapies currently in phase 3 trials can favourably modulate fibrinolysis and improve clinical outcomes.Figure 1

A Novel High-Throughput Immunoaffinity LC-MS/MS Assay for P-III-NP and Other Fragments of Type III Procollagen in Human Serum.

The amino-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (P-III-NP) is used with IGF-I to detect the illicit use of growth hormone and to monitor growth hormone therapy. However, the only currently available assays for P-III-NP are immunoassays, which are not well harmonized. In addition, other fragments of type III procollagen may better evaluate collagen turnover. We aimed to develop a high-throughput assay using immunoaffinity enrichment coupled to ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to quantify peptides belonging to three different regions of type III procollagen in human serum simultaneously. To facilitate higher throughput, we transferred the assay from microcentrifuge tubes to a 96-well plate format with partially automated pipetting. The method was linear (Pearson's R ≥ 0.994) over an estimated concentration range of 1.35-13.3 nM, 0.04-2.28 nM, and 0.26-5.1 nM for each surrogate peptide of P-III-NP, collagen degradation products, and the carboxyl-terminal propeptide, respectively. Intra-day and inter-day imprecision were both < 13.6%, and the results of robustness testing were also encouraging. The method was successfully applied to capillary blood samples obtained using Tasso+ microsampling devices. Modest correlation of P-III-NP concentration was observed between our new method and a WADA-approved immunoassay (N = 40, Pearson's R = 0.789) with a significant bias of -87.8%. Our method simultaneously quantifies four peptides belonging to three regions of type III procollagen in human serum. High bias between assays highlights the need for common higher-order calibrators or reference materials to help improve the comparability of results across laboratories.

Physico-mechanical properties of geopolymers after thermal exposure: Influence of filler, temperature and dwell time

Geopolymers offer increasingly better physico-mechanical properties concerning thermal exposure at high temperatures compared to ordinary Portland cements (OPC). This paper aims to comprehensively study the use of different types of fillers with different particle size distributions in terms of type (silica sands and cordierites) and surface area, loaded at different temperatures and dwell times (30 min and 180 min). After thermal exposure in the temperature range of 100–1000 °C, geopolymer samples were evaluated regarding physico-mechanical properties compared to samples without thermal exposure, using OPC as a reference material. Geopolymer samples were found to have a denser microstructure than OPC, supporting their better resistance to elevated temperature conditions. In addition, the influence of different filler compositions on the resulting internal structure and porosity was demonstrated. Samples containing fillers in two particle size ranges showed better densification than samples with one particle size range.Conversely, OPC samples showed the least favourable results. In addition, the mechanical behaviour of the geopolymers under static loading, especially in bending and compression tests, showed that the prepared geopolymers exhibited better properties than Portland cement at elevated temperatures, especially in the range of 500–1000 °C. In conclusion, appropriately designed geopolymer compositions have the potential to be a sustainable material, a high-performance alternative to traditional building materials.

Impact of Human Resource Policy Implementation on Service Delivery at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Western Region, Kenya

Efficient implementation of policies has a crucial function in improving service delivery in the public and private domains. The success of policy execution directly impacts how much the policy contributes to enhancing service delivery. To achieve high-quality, efficient, and timely service delivery, the Directorate has adopted a strategy of revamping, retooling, and continuous learning. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) follows the Excellence Charter and adheres to the ODPP Strategic Commitments for the period 2020-2023. In this context, the researcher focused on examining the impact of human resource policy implementation on service delivery at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Western Region, Kenya. Implementation Theory and Organizational Culture Theory guided the study. Descriptive research design was utilized. The target population was 198 individuals working within the ODPP Western Region of Kenya. Individual respondents were selected randomly from Legal, Administration, and Support Staff in region. Data collection was done through questionnaires distributed to staff and document analysis was conducted in the resource centres available in the region. Face-to-face interviews with selected County Heads were carried out by the researcher. Descriptive statistics, such as means, percentages, and frequencies, was used in the research's quantitative and qualitative approaches to analyze the data using SPSS. The findings indicated that human resource has a significant impact on service delivery at the ODPP, Western Region, Kenya. The results upon Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) established human resource policy implementation had an r of 0.265, β = 0.252, t= 3.786, p= 0.05. It was concluded that Policy Implementation had a statistically significant impact on service delivery in the ODPP. The study recommends that ODPP should enhance HR policy implementation and service delivery in the Western Region by improving communication, offering regular training, fostering open dialogue, establishing a robust monitoring framework, deploying dedicated HR Officers, and ensuring transparent and unbiased career progression and training opportunities. The study will be part of references materials for all ODPP Staff, stakeholders, policy makers and other institutions in Kenya as an insightful tool in advancement of efficacy and efficiency in policy implementation.

The Efficacy of Virtual Physical Education and Its Contribution to Raising Learners' Interest and Engagement Levels

Background: Schools are reluctant to adapt physical education to virtual as it would be challenging to do physical education via virtual learning. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the contemporary efficacy of virtual physical education and its contribution to raising learners' interest and engagement levels. Methods: This study employed an exploratory research design. The content was compiled using various printed and electronic textbooks, encyclopedias, reference materials, scholarly publications, and dissertations. Subsequently, the author assessed the multiple sources to ascertain the data's caliber. Results: Conventional education is obsolete; thus, schools should adopt virtual physical education due to its positive outcomes in education regarding learners' performance by increasing learners' interest and engagement. Conclusion: A properly planned and well-implemented virtual physical education, well-trained and experienced educators, well-guided learners, proper infrastructure, and supporting resources result in learners being interested and engaged, thus leading virtual physical education to success. This study bridges the gap between virtual physical education and learners' interest and engagement, adding to the existing corpus of information concerning virtual physical education.