Test Regression Research Articles

The Effectiveness of The Implementation of The Farmer Card Program in Distributing Subsidized Fertilizers in Tasikmadu District, Karanganyar Regency

In order to actualize distribution and control that are right on target, one of the government programs that is employed as a tool to redeem subsidized fertilizers is called the Farmer Card. Among the objectives of this study are the following: 1) To describe and analyze the variables of non-formal education, land ownership, farming experience, and social environment, as well as the effectiveness of the implementation of the Farmer Card Program in distributing subsidized fertilizers; 2) To analyze the influence of factors that affect the effectiveness of the program on the effectiveness of the implementation of the Farmer Card Program in Tasikmadu District. The research is conducted using a quantitative approach, and the venue was chosen on purpose to be in the Tasikmadu District community. When using the proportional simple random sampling approach, there were a total of seventy individuals that participated in the survey. The IBM SPSS Statistics 25 application was utilized for the analysis of the data, and a multiple linear regression test was performed. The findings of the research indicate that the following elements are included in the high category: (1) the factors that pertain to non-formal education are included in the high category; (2) the domain of land ownership is included in the very limited category; (3) the farming experience is included in the old category; and (4) the social environment is included in the high category. The effectiveness of the implementation Farmer Card Program in distributing subsidized fertilizers in Tasikmadu District is included in the category of quite good in terms of the success of the target, the success of the program and satisfaction with the program; (2) Non-formal education, the extent of land ownership and the social environment have a significant effect on the effectiveness of the implementation of the Farmer Card Program, while farming experience has no significant effect.

Relationship Between Musculoskeletal Disorders on Job Performance

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) and International Labour Organization (ILO) have identified musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) as a rising epidemic within the workforce. These injuries account for 33% of all occupational injuries and 40% of medical costs. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effect of MSDs on the job performance of operating room employees. Methods: This descriptive and analytical study was conducted on 100 participants. Job performance was assessed using the Patterson Job Performance Questionnaire (JPQ), and MSDs were evaluated using the NORDIC Questionnaire. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 16, employing Mann-Whitney, chi-square, and binary logistic regression tests. Results: Among the participants, 43% were women, and 67% were men, with an average age of 27.37 ± 6.45. Sixty-two percent of participants did not have acceptable job performance. Additionally, 83% reported at least one musculoskeletal injury, 64% had at least two injuries, and 62% had three or more injuries across different body parts. The results indicated a significant relationship between job performance and variables such as hip, knee, lower back, upper back injuries, age, gender, literacy level, physical activity, and work experience. However, no significant relationship was found between neck injuries and marital status with job performance (P < 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that MSDs can negatively impact employee job performance. Given the influence of various occupational factors on performance, it is recommended that future studies simultaneously examine the effects of other occupational hazards.

The Mediating Role of Institutional Culture in Transformational Leadership and Organizational Performance in Faith-Based Higher Education in Kenya

This study investigates the mediating role of institutional culture in the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational performance in private, faith - based higher learning institutions in Kenya. A quantitative research design utilizing self - administered questionnaires was employed, targeting leaders and staff across selected institutions. Data analysis involved regression and mediation testing. The findings provide insights into the dynamics of leadership, culture, and performance within faith - based higher education contexts in Kenya.

Factors Associated with the Occurrence of Urogenital Bacterial Infections in Pregnant Women at a Reference Hospital in Cameroon

Introduction: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the most common bacterial infections in pregnant women are urinary tract infections (46%) and vaginal infections (26%). Pregnant women are at risk of contracting these dangerous urogenital bacterial infections, with more or less serious consequences for the health of both mother and child. The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with the occurrence of urogenital bacterial infections in pregnant women attending antenatal clinics. Methodology: A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted from May 13 to June 14, 2024, at Douala Laquintinie Hospital. All pregnant women attending antenatal clinics regardless of gestational trimester and consenting to the study were included. Data were analyzed using SPSS 20, R 3.4, and Epi info 7.8. Chi-square, Fischer, and logistic regression tests were performed. Results: A total of 153 pregnant were included in this study. The incidence of urogenital infections in this population was 42%. Infectious agents were E-coli (18.95%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (7.83%), Gardnerella vaginalis (24.44%), and Streptococcus B (2.22%). Self-medication (OR=17.72; p = 0.0003), drying underwear inside the house (OR=6.53; p = 0.00081), use of traditional toilets (OR=2.65; p = 0.00001), surgical history (OR=2.10; p = 0.01), vaccination status (OR=2.11; p = 0.003), use of borehole and well water (OR=0.02; p = 0.002), frequency of sanitary pad changing (OR=1.13; p = 0.011), frequency of sexual intercourse (OR=1.32; p = 0.012), traditional purging (OR=0.06; p = 0.0001), poor personal hygiene (OR=0.2; p = 0.0031), multiple sexual partners (OR=1.8; p = 0.022) and tight underwear (OR=0.4; p = 0.01) were associated with the occurrence of urogenital bacterial infections. Conclusion: Urogenital bacterial infections during pregnancy are dangerous. Knowledge of the factors associated with their occurrence will enable the implementation of appropriate control strategies against these infections.

Pengaruh Matakuliah Kewirausahaan terhadap Minat Mahasiswa Menjadi Wirausaha: Studi Kasus pada Mahasiswa Prodi Asuransi UINSU

The Entrepreneurship course aims to make students learn to understand entrepreneurship, learn to have an entrepreneurial spirit, and learn to be an entrepreneur. This type of research is quantitative research. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of Entrepreneurship courses in order to increase student interest in entrepreneurship by using multiple regression tests to compare the interests of students who take entrepreneurship courses with those who do not take entrepreneurship courses. In semesters 2, 4, and 6, 30 random samples were obtained for each group of students. The results obtained indicate that the implementation of entrepreneurship courses affects student interest in entrepreneurship. For 2nd semester students they do not take entrepreneurial decisions, but they do take them in high school. On the other hand, 4th semester students are interested in jobs that can guarantee a steady income (job). The results of this study can explain the need for students to accompany the offering of entrepreneurship courses in more practical applications in order to gain a clearer understanding of entrepreneurship. Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Course, Interest in Entrepreneurship

The Factors Influencing Import of Raw Crystal Sugar From Thailand to Indonesia

This research aims to determine what factors influence the import of raw crystal sugar from Thailand to Indonesia. The method for determining regions is purposively used, namely, in Indonesia. The data collection method used in this research is secondary data. The data analysis method used is a multiple linear regression test with the Ordinary Least Square or OLS method. The results of this research are as follows: (1) The regression model used passed the classical assumption test, namely Multicollinearity, Heteroscedasticity, Autocorrelation, and Normality. (2). Factors that have a significant positive effect on the quantity of imported raw crystal sugar (raw sugar) from Thailand to Indonesia are GDP (gross domestic product) per capita. In contrast, one factor that significantly affects the number of imports of raw crystal sugar (raw sugar) from Thailand to Indonesia is the price of imported sugar. (3). Factors that do not significantly influence the quantity of raw crystal sugar imports from Thailand to Indonesia are sugar import tariffs and consumption rates

The Influence Of Job Satisfaction And Work Discipline On Employee Performance At The Regional Drinking Water Company (PDAM) Tirta Jeneberang Gowa District

The aim of this study is to find out the influence of leadership style, supervision and work discipline on the performance of officials in the Civil Occupation and Registration Service of Barru District. The object of this study is all 62 respondents. This research is quantitative research. Data collection techniques are done by means of observation, lifting or questionnaire and documentation. The main variables underlying this study are Leadership Style variables as X1, Supervision as X2, Working Discipline as X3, and Officer Performance as Y. While the technical analysis used in the research uses Validity Test, Reliability Test, Classical Assumption Test and Dual Linear Regression Test using the SPSS 27 program. The results of this study showed a positive relationship between the leadership style (X1) and the employer (Y) with a thitung value -2,627 > ttable 0,250 with a Significant Level of 0,011, supervision (X2) with the performance of the employee (Y), with a Thitung value of 3,408 > table 0,250, with a significant rate of 0,001 and work discipline (X3) that contributed positively to the performance (Y). With a thiting value of 2,243 > t table 0,250 and a significant 0.29 in the Population and Civil Registration Service of the District of Barru.

Optimum Design of Profiled Root–Trimming Device for Pull–Cut Harvester of Leading–Drawing–Cutting Type

In this study, a leading–drawing–cutting–type profiled root–trimming device was designed to address the problems of high impurity and damage rates that occur with the operation of a pull–cut garlic harvester. The main components of the designed device include a pull–clamp mechanism, roll–pulling mechanism, root–trimming knife mechanism, lifter, gearbox, universal drive shaft, motor, and frame that, together, can complete the root–trimming operation for a pull–cut garlic harvester. An orthogonal regression test was carried out by taking the roller diameter, the roller inclination angle, the knife rotation speed, and the working speed as factors and by taking the impurity rate and the damage rate as indices. The results of the orthogonal regression test showed that the impurity rate was most strongly affected by the roller diameter, followed by the knife rotation speed, the working speed, and the roller inclination angle. Meanwhile, the damage rate was most strongly affected by the knife rotation speed, followed by the roller diameter, the working speed, and the roller inclination angle. The regression analysis showed that when the roller diameter was 100 mm, the roller inclination angle was 25°, the knife rotation speed was 200 r·min−1, and the working speed was 1.22 km·h−1, the comprehensive trimming quality reached its maximum value of 97.82%. The verification result of the parallel test gave a value of 97.52%, which was mainly affected by the irregular sizes of the bulbs, but it showed no significant difference from the regression analysis results. The tests verified that the profiled root–trimming device could be applied to develop the technology of garlic pull–cut harvesters.

The Influence of Financial Ratios on Investment Decisions in the Food and Beverage Subsector on the Indonesian Stock Exchange

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of financial ratios on investment decisions in the food and beverage sub-sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2019-2022 period. This study uses a quantitative research type and sampling using a purposive sampling method. The population in this study were 27 companies and the sample of this study was 10 companies. Data collection techniques used Multiple Linear Regression testing, Multiple Regression Classical Assumption testing, hypothesis testing and determination coefficient testing. The data processing of this study used SPSS 27, 2024. The results of this study indicate that partially the profitability ratio (Return on Asset) with t-count <t-table (-9.064<2.028) with a significant level (0.001<0.05) has a negative but significant effect on investment decisions, the liquidity ratio (Current Ratio) with t-count <t table (-1.316<2.028) with a significant level (0.197>0.05) has a negative but insignificant effect on investment decisions and the solvency ratio (Debt to Equity Ratio) with t-count <t table (-2.266<2.028) with a significant level (0.030<0.05) has a negative but significant effect on investment decisions.

Assessment of Managerial Skills Among Healthcare Provider Managers

The primary objective of this research is to assess the managerial skills of managers working in healthcare and hospital centers (primary healthcare) within Isfahan province. This cross-sectional study was carried out in 2023, encompassing a sample size of 1,420 healthcare providers operating in these healthcare and hospital centers. The research utilized the Cameron and Whetten questionnaire, which employs a Likert scale for measurement. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression tests. The findings revealed that 53.4% of managers demonstrated effective skills in writing, oral communication, and listening. Additionally, 62.8% of managers exhibited proficiency in time management. However, only 39.12% were adept at avoiding troublesome decisions, 30.2% were skilled in persuading higher-level individuals, and 30.8% showed competence in planning. A significant relationship was identified between the ability to persuade higher-level individuals to perform tasks and teamwork among managers with more work experience. The results also highlighted a higher incidence of troublesome decision-making among women and individuals with extensive managerial experience. In conclusion, the study suggests that managers of healthcare providers in healthcare and hospital centers (primary healthcare) in Isfahan province require more focused attention and training in certain key managerial skills to enhance their effectiveness. This includes improving their abilities in decision-making, persuasion, and planning, which are crucial for their roles. Therefore, targeted training programs and interventions are recommended to address these gaps and improve the overall managerial capabilities within these healthcare settings.

PCSK9 inhibitors and coronary atherosclerotic plaque modification: a meta-analysis

Abstract Introduction Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors have emerged as a promising class of medications, primarily recognized for their potent cholesterol-lowering effects. Beyond their established role in reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, recent studies suggest a potential impact of PCSK9 inhibitors on the modification of coronary atherosclerotic plaques. Purpose The purpose of this meta-analysis is to comprehensively synthesize data from relevant clinical studies and trials that have investigated the effects of PCSK9 inhibitors on coronary atherosclerotic plaque characteristics. Methods We performed a literature search for studies assessing the evolution of coronary atherosclerotic plaques after treatment with a PCSK9 inhibitor compared to a control group. We excluded reviews, editorials, case reports/case series, and studies that did not use PCSK9 inhibitors or did not have a control group for comparison. The main outcomes of interest were the changes in percent atheroma volume (PAV), total atheroma volume (TAV), minimal fibrous cap thickness (FCT), lipid arch, as well as the number of patients with improved PAV at follow-up. Effect sizes are presented as standardized mean difference (SMD) or risk ratio (RR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and were pooled based on a random-effects model. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plot inspection and egger’s regression test. Results The literature search yielded 189 results. After application of the exclusion criteria, a total of 8 studies were selected for data extraction and inclusion in the meta-analysis. Concerning the intravascular ultrasound findings PCSK9 inhibitors induced greater reductions in PAV (SMD -2.70, 95% CI -5.24 to -0.15, p=0.04) (Figure 1) and TAV (SMD -2.46, 95% CI -4.68 to -0.23, p=0.03) (Figure 2), with a greater proportion of patients exhibiting an improvement in PAV (RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.41, p<0.01). Moving to optical coherence tomography parameters, patients treated with PCSK9 inhibitors had an increase in minimal FCT (SMD 2.09, 95% CI 0.12 to 4.07, p=0.04) and a lower lipid arch (SMD -0.64, 95% CI -0.97 to -0.32, p<0.01). Funnel plot inspection and egger’s regression test did not indicate the presence of publication bias. Conclusion This meta-analysis suggests that PCSK9 inhibitors use is associated with a favorable coronary atherosclerotic plaque remodeling.Figure 1Figure 2

The role of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in epicardial adipose tissue modulation: a meta-analysis

Abstract Introduction Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have emerged as a groundbreaking class of antidiabetic medications, renowned for their glucose-lowering effects and cardiovascular benefits. Recent studies have suggested that SGLT2 inhibitors may extend their influence beyond glycemic control to impact adipose tissue physiology, particularly within the epicardial adipose depot. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), an actively secretory organ surrounding the heart, has been implicated in the modulation of cardiovascular risk. Purpose This meta-analysis aims to systematically review and synthesize existing literature on the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on epicardial adipose tissue. Methods We performed a literature search for studies assessing epicardial adipose tissue before and after treatment with a SGLT2 inhibitor compared to a control group. We excluded reviews, editorials, case reports/case series, and studies that did not use SGLT2 inhibitors or did not have a control group for comparison. The main outcome of interest was the change in EAT volume/thickness at follow-up. Effect sizes are presented as standardized mean difference (SMD) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and were pooled based on a random-effects model. The leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was used for further validation of the findings. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plot inspection and egger’s regression test. Results The literature search yielded 49 results. After application of the exclusion criteria, a total of 6 studies were selected for data extraction and inclusion in the meta-analysis. Accordingly, we detected that treatment with an SGLT2 inhibitor was associated with decreased EAT volume/thickness (SMD -1.79, 95% CI -2.91 to -0.66, p<0.01). There was substantial between-study heterogeneity (I2: 94%, p<0.01). Results remained robust even after exclusion of any single study. Funnel plot inspection and egger’s regression test did not indicate the presence of publication bias. Conclusion This meta-analysis suggests that SGLT2 inhibitors use is associated with a reduction in EAT volume/thickness, posing as a potential mechanism of their beneficial effects in heart failure outcomes.Figure

The Influence of the Number of Banks, Distribution of Funds, and Sources of Funds on the Performance of Commercial Banks in Indonesia

This research aims to determine the impact of the number of banks, distribution of funds, and sources of funds on the general performance of banks in Indonesia. The location of this research is Indonesia. The object of this research is to collect data on the number of banks, distribution of funds, sources of funds, and performance of commercial banks in Indonesia, taken from the Central Statistics Agency website during 2018–2022. The data analysis method used is the multiple linear regression test using the classical assumption test, regression testing, and hypothesis testing. Based on the research results, it can be explained: 1) Partially, the number of banks does not influence but is significant on bank performance (-3.333 < 2.110; 0.004 < 0.05), the distribution of funds does not influence and is not substantial on bank performance (-1.992 < 2.110; 0.5063 > 0.05), and the source of funds influences and is significant on bank performance (3,440 > 2,110; 0.003 < 0.05); 2) Simultaneous positive and significant influence of the number of banks, distribution of funds, and sources of funds on performance (17.113 > 2.96; 0.000 < 0.05; 3) The bank performance variable has no relationship with the variable number of banks, distribution of funds with the figures shown being -0.753, -0.482 and has a relationship to the source of funds of 0.501

Assessment of body composition in young adulthood and its associations to early changes in cardiovascular phenotypes: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction Obesity in young adulthood is associated with various cardiovascular structural and functional changes, commonly used as markers of early subclinical cardiovascular disease. Whether these changes occur predominantly in relation to increased fat mass (FM) or are instead more closely related to simultaneous increases in underlying fat-free mass (FFM) that are known to occur in obesity, is incompletely understood. Purpose To investigate associations between both FM and FFM and a wide range of cardiac (left ventricular mass, LVM; end-diastolic volume, EDV; cardiac output, CO; stroke volume, SV), vascular (systolic blood pressure, SBP; diastolic blood pressure, DBP; mean arterial pressure, MAP; systemic vascular resistance, SVR) and autonomic (heart rate variability triangular index, HRVTI; baroreceptor reflex sensitivity, BRS) phenotypes commonly used to monitor the early evolution of subclinical CVD. Methods The study used data from extensive adipose and cardiovascular phenotyping of 408 healthy young adults (mean age 21 years) participating in a sub-study of the long-running ALSPAC birth cohort. We performed cross-sectional analysis using multiple imputation, multivariable linear regression and interaction testing to assess the association between both FM and FFM and cardiovascular phenotypes. Results Our study revealed that FFM resulted in a much greater increase in CO (difference in outcome per 1-SD difference in exposure β=0.58L/min, p<0.01, 95% CI=0.38, 0.77) than FM (β=0.20L/min, p=0.01, 95% CI=0.05, 0.36), following adjustment for both tissue types. FFM was also associated with an increase in LVM (β=19.1g, p<0.01, 95% CI=16.61, 21.58), EDV (β=22ml, p<0.01, 95% CI=18.18, 25.13) and SV (β=13ml, p<0.01, 95% CI=10.96, 15.75). FFM was also associated with improved autonomic and peripheral vascular function, including lower HR (β=-4bpm, p<0.01, 95% CI=-6.12, -1.95), higher HRVTI (β=2.1, p<0.01, 95% CI=0.72, 3.48) and lower SVR (β=-1.1, p<0.01, 95% CI=-2.12, -1.07), resulting in unchanged MAP despite elevations in CO. On the contrary, FM was not associated with LVM (β=-0.91g, p=0.35, 95% CI=-2.85, 1.02), and was associated with lower EDV (β=-4.62ml, p<0.01, 95% CI=-7.34, -1.88) and reduced autonomic function, as seen with HRVTI (β=-1.83, p<0.01, 95% CI=-3.02, -0.64) and BRS (β=-2.47, p=0.01, 95% CI=-4.27, -0.67). FM was also associated with increased HR (β=3.26bpm, p<0.01, 95% CI=1.57, 4.94) and increased SBP (β=2.14mmHg, p<0.01, 95% CI=1.01, 3.27) DBP (β=2.68mmHg, p<0.01, 95% CI=1.60, 3.77), and MAP (β=2.34mmHg, p<0.01, 95% CI=1.34, 3.34). Conclusion In young adults, changes in surrogate clinical markers of cardiac, vascular, and autonomic function commonly attributed solely to increases in fat mass should be interpreted with caution as they may be associated with underlying changes in FFM. Future work should focus on longitudinal studies of this cohort to confirm remodelling patterns based on these clinical markers.

Comparison of angiography-derived index of microcirculatory resistance measurements between low and high frame-rate acquisitions: the prospective ADMIRAL-study

Abstract Background Angiography-derived index of microcirculatory resistance (angio-IMR) is a novel, wire-free, angiography-based method (QFR-IMR®) to assess coronary microvascular dysfunction. If a frame-rate of 15 frames per second (fps) is recommended, there is an interest in decreasing this frame-rate to reduce X-ray exposure. However, the impact of frame-rate reduction on angio-IMR quantification has not been investigated. Purpose To compare angio-IMR at 7.5 fps (angio-IMRlow) to angio-IMR at 15 fps (angio-IMRhigh) in a multicentric study. Methods From October 2023 to February 2024, we conducted a multicentre prospective study including consecutive patients referred for an invasive coronary angiogram with a final diagnosis of ischemia with no obstructive coronaries arteries (INOCA) (positive stress test with normal coronary angiogram) or acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Main exclusion criteria were creatinine clearance<45ml/kg/1.73m2, factors that might substantially impact the coronary angiograms quality (e.g: aortic stenosis, supraventricular tachycardia), and TIMI flow <3. In ACS patients, angio-IMR was measured after revascularisation. The same two acquisitions with different angles (≥25°) were recorded at a rate of 7.5 fps and a rate of 15 fps to measure angio-IMR in the selected vessel (culprit coronary vessel in ACS patients or left anterior descending artery in patients with INOCA). Angio-IMR was measured with dedicated software (QFR-IMR® RE, Medis Medical Imaging). Correlation between angio-IMRlow and angio-IMRhigh was assessed by linear regression and Bland-Altman test. The diagnostic accuracy of angio-IMRlow to predict microcirculatory dysfunction (defined as angio-IMRhigh≥ 25 for INOCA and ≥ 40 for ACS) was also assessed. Statistical significance was awarded by p≤0.05. Results Of 87 consecutive eligible patients, 75 were included in the study, comprising 57 with ACS and 18 with INOCA (mean age 61±12 years, 72% male). Angio-IMRlow (median=35; [IQR:28-48]) was slightly but significantly higher (p=0.04) than angio-IMRhigh (median=34; [IQR:25-45]). Angio-IMRlow and angio-IMRhigh were significantly correlated (r=0.90; p<0.0001) (Figure 1). Using Bland-Altman analysis, mean difference between the two measurements was 2.2 (95% CI 0.1-4.4) with a significant higher value with angio-IMRlow (p=0.04). Moreover, as value of Angio-IMRhigh increases, the difference between angio-IMRlow and angio-IMRhigh becomes more significant (Figure 2). Using angio-IMRhigh to diagnose microcirculatory dysfunction as reference, angio-IMRlow achieved positive and negative predictive values of 83% and 85% respectively with 6 false positives, and 6 false negatives. Conclusion Correlation between angio-IMRhigh and angio-IMRlow is acceptable. Lowering frame acquisition rate reduces radiation exposure without relevantly impact on the diagnostic accuracy of angio-IMR, which can contribute to a widespread use of angio-IMR.Correlation between angioIMRlow and highBland-Altman plot

Validation of a hand-held ultrasound device in the evaluation of aortic stenosis

Abstract Introduction Hand-held Ultrasound devices (HHUD) are increasingly used in routine clinical practice, although until recently they did not have continuous Doppler. There is no evidence on the usefulness of an HHUD for the assessment of aortic stenosis (AS) in real life. Objective To validate the use of a new HHUD device in a real-life scenario. Material and methods Observational, single-center and prospective study, including patients diagnosed with AS with a previous standard echocardiography. Patients were randomly recruited from a tertiary cardiac imaging laboratory. Immediately after the reference echocardiography performed by an imaging expert, a Cardiology trainee with ASE level II repeated the study blindly with an HHUD. Agreement between the two tests was evaluated by measuring the mean aortic valve gradient (mAG). An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) test, linear regression, and Bland-Altman test were performed to compare the two methods. Results 101 patients were recruited. The reference test calculated a mAG of 29 mmHg (19.8 - 42.2) versus a mAG of 27.2 mmHg (16.2 - 43.9) in HHUD. The statistical analysis showed a good correlation between both tests (ICC: 0.87 (95% CI: 0.79 -0.94) and r=0.89 (95% CI: 0.85-0.94) (Figure). The Bland-Altman test showed a non-significant underestimation (1.61 ± 0.9 mmHg; p= 0.09). The HHUD classified 29 cases as severe or major AS compared to 31 in the reference test (kappa= 0.81; 95% CI: 0.68 - 0.94). The HHUD showed an excellent agreement for classification of AS in at least severe AS grade. The kappa analysis had a value of 0.81 (95% CI 0.68 – 0.94) with a global agreement of 92.1%. The positive predictive value was 89.6%. The negative predictive value was 93.1%. Sensitivity and specificity were 83.8% and 95.7%. The rest of the variables evaluated showed poorer agreement. In those patients with obesity, worse acoustic window, atrial fibrillation and critical AS, the agreement was worse. Conclusions The new HHUD evaluated by an operator with limited experience showed good agreement with the reference echocardiographic device in determining the mean aortic gradient.Central picture

Assessing Organic Farming Adoption in Selected Districts of Tamil Nadu: Challenges, Practices, and Pathways for Growth

This study investigates the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, focusing on how region-specific practices influence the adoption and success of organic farming. It draws insights from a survey of 300 organic growers across five districts: Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Tirupur, and Villupuram. This study is particularly relevant because there is a lack of comprehensive research on the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, with limited data on the long-term impact of government initiatives and region-specific management options, especially for smallholder farmers. Additionally, gaps exist in understanding the economic viability, market demand, and farmer perceptions of organic farming together with challenges like knowledge gaps, pest control, managing risks, and lower initial yields during the transition from conventional farming to organic farming. The research evaluated the factors affecting organic farming, including crop yield, the use of different organic formulations, the role of different information services, opportunities and challenges, and the impact on the perceived effectiveness of various agricultural outcomes. Various statistical analyses were performed, including K-means clustering, Poisson regression, and chi-square test. The results revealed significant variations in the adoption of various organic inputs and regionally practiced organic formulations. Crop residues (82.67%), Jeevamrith (78.33%), Amudhakaraisal (77.00%), and 3G-Extracts (74.00%) have high adoption rates, reflecting their perceived effectiveness and accessibility among farmers. However, the adoption of microbial bio-inputs such as Trichoderma viride (1.00%), Acetobacter spp. (19.00%), Azophos (consortium of phosphorus fixing microbes) (26.33%), and Azospirillum spp. (28.67%) was notably poor despite their known benefits for soil health and crop yield. The chi-square test also highlighted key challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming practices. The Poisson regression analysis showed significant positive impacts on crop growth and yield, disease resistance, insect control, overall plant health, and input efficiency due to organic farming. The study’s insights are essential for developing targeted strategies to overcome barriers, supporting the growth and sustainability of organic farming. Addressing these challenges and promoting effective information channels will better equip stakeholders to support organic growers, contributing to more resilient and productive agricultural systems in the region.

The Impact of Financial Inclusion on Economic Growth in Nigeria: A Secondary Data Analysis

This study investigates the impact of financial inclusion on economic growth in Nigeria, a country where a significant portion of the population remains financially excluded despite ongoing efforts to enhance access to financial services. The problem addressed is the limited understanding of how various aspects of financial inclusion, particularly mobile money, banking services, and credit availability, affect Nigeria's GDP growth. The primary objectives of the study are to assess the current level of financial inclusion, analyze its relationship with GDP growth, and provide evidence-based policy recommendations to improve financial access and support economic development. To achieve these objectives, a secondary data analysis was conducted, employing multiple linear regression, Pearson correlation, and Granger causality tests. The findings reveal a marginally significant positive relationship between Mobile Money Subscriptions (MMS) and GDP growth, while access to formal banking services and credit availability showed no significant correlation with economic growth. These results highlight the importance of mobile money as a key driver of financial inclusion, contrasting with the limited impact of traditional banking services. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing mobile money infrastructure, strengthening financial literacy programs, promoting inclusive banking models, and fostering collaboration with fintech firms. Implementing these recommendations could significantly improve financial inclusion in Nigeria, ultimately contributing to sustained economic growth and enhanced welfare for the population.

The Effect Of Work Experience, Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB), Commitment Towards Employee Performance At PT. Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional I

Employee performance is one of the important factors that must be prioritized in order to be able to face and win competition at both national and global levels. The full performance of workers in carrying out their duties, whether an employee's performance is good or bad, is determined by their performance. This research aims to determine the influence of work experience, organizational citizenship behavior (OCB), commitment on employee performance at PT. Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional I. The method in this research is the Quantitative Method, the number of samples for this research is 110 respondents. Data collection techniques in this research are questionnaires, observation, pre-survey interviews, data analysis using multiple linear regression tests and descriptive statistics. Data management in this research uses SPSS 25 for Windows. Based on the research results, it shows that work experience has a positive and significant effect on employee performance with a significant value of 0.039, organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) has a positive and significant effect on employee performance with a significant value of 0.040, and commitment has a positive and significant effect on performance with a significant value. of 0.001. work experience, organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and commitment simultaneously influence work productivity in PT, Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional I employees with a sig value of 0.000.

Analisis Pengaruh Beban Pajak Kini, Beban Pajak Tangguhan, dan Perencanaan Pajak Terhadap Manajemen Laba

This research aims to determine empirically the influence of current tax burden, deferred tax burden and tax planning on earnings management in automotive companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI). during the 2018-2022 period. The research method used is a quantitative research method. The data used is secondary data, namely financial reports listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in 2018-2022. The sample was selected using the purposive sampling method. Based on predetermined criteria, there were 6 automotive companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) in 2018-2022. The analysis techniques used in this research are descriptive statistical analysis, panel data regression model testing, classical assumption testing, panel data linear regression testing, and hypothesis testing. The results of this research show that current tax burden and tax planning have an effect on earnings management, while deferred tax burden has no effect on earnings management. Then research simultaneously current tax burden, deferred tax burden, and tax planning influence on earnings management.