Valid Comparisons Research Articles

Modeling of Capacity Factor in Rembang Coal-Fired Steam Power Plant Using Regression Modelin

Coal-Fired Steam Power Plant (PLTU) Rembang is an important power plant in the Central Java electricity system. Like other coal-fired steam power plants, fuel cost is the most significant expense when operating the PLTU Rembang. During the 2019-2021 period, the average fuel cost was 73.88% of total costs. One of the ways to reduce fuel costs is by improving the accuracy of fuel demand planning. Fuel procurement planning is very dependent on the projected amount of electricity sales from power plant, which is largely determined by the power plant's Capacity Factor (CF). However, PLTU Rembang does not have any CF prediction modeling. This research developed and compared four prediction models: random forest regression, support vector regression, multiple polynomial regression, and multiple linear regression. Based on the comparison of validation from the four prediction model with MAPE and R-squared parameters, the multiple linear regression models is the best model, with the lowest MAPE of 7.83% and the highest R-squared of 0.8814. This multiple linear regression model can be used to predict the CF of PLTU Rembang in the future so that fuel demand planning is more accurate.

Study on dynamic collision avoidance during UAV inspection based on improved graph theory network algorithm

Abstract With the development of the times, UAVs are gradually promoted and popularized in military and civil fields, and the future airspace will also face more security risks. This paper combines the graph theory network algorithm to plan the initial path of UAV inspection and completes the dynamic collision avoidance path planning in the process of UAV inspection through the established joint model of UAV inspection sensing and avoidance. At the same time, the ant colony algorithm is introduced to improve the graph theory network algorithm to solve the dynamic collision avoidance optimal path in the process of UAV inspection. On this basis, simulation experiments of path planning design for UAV collision avoidance and kinematic simulation with two-fold priority judgment are carried out, and the kinematic parameters corresponding to the collision avoidance path are selected as the analysis anchor points. The extreme values of horizontal speed, climb speed, trajectory inclination angular rate, and heading angular rate are 31.6 m/s, 3 m/s, 5.7°/s, and 18.4°/s, respectively, which are within the given constraints, and verify the reasonableness and effectiveness of the proposed optimization scheme. The average time of the proposed algorithm is 0.0458s, which is much lower than the corresponding 0.7105s of the original scheme algorithm, through data comparison of simulation experiments and experimental validation. Using a graph theory network algorithm, the proposed optimization scheme is more efficient and stable and has a higher success rate for collision avoidance.

Two-sample survival tests based on control arm summary statistics.

The one-sample log-rank test is the preferred method for analysing the outcome of single-arm survival trials. It compares the survival distribution of patients with a prefixed reference survival curve that usually represents the expected outcome under standard of care. However, classical one-sample log-rank tests assume that the reference curve is known, ignoring that it is frequently estimated from historical data and therefore susceptible to sampling error. Neglecting the variability of the reference curve can lead to an inflated type I error rate, as shown in a previous paper. Here, we propose a new survival test that allows to account for the sampling error of the reference curve without knowledge of the full underlying historical survival time data. Our new test allows to perform a valid historical comparison of patient survival times when only a historical survival curve rather than the full historic data is available. It thus applies in settings where the two-sample log-rank test is not applicable as method of choice due to non-availability of historic individual patient survival time data. We develop sample size calculation formulas, give an example application and study the performance of the new test in a simulation study.

Bayesian model selection for COVID-19 pandemic state estimation using extended Kalman filters: Case study for Saudi Arabia.

Quantifying the uncertainty in data-driven mechanistic models is fundamental in public health applications. COVID-19 is a complex disease that had a significant impact on global health and economies. Several mathematical models were used to understand the complexity of the transmission dynamics under different hypotheses to support the decision-making for disease management. This paper highlights various scenarios of a 6D epidemiological model known as SEIQRD (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Quarantined-Recovered-Deceased) to evaluate its effectiveness in prediction and state estimation during the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Then we investigate the suitability of the classical 4D epidemiological model known as SIRD (Susceptible-Infected-Recovered-Deceased) in the long-term behaviour in order to make a comparison between these models. The primary aim of this paper is to establish a foundational basis for the validity and epidemiological model comparisons in long-term behaviour which may help identify the degree of model complexity that is required based on two approaches viz. the Bayesian inference employing the nested sampling algorithm and recursive state estimation utilizing the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF). Our approach acknowledges the potential imperfections and uncertainties inherent in compartmental epidemiological models. By integrating our proposed methodology, these models can consistently generate predictions closely aligned with the observed data on active cases and deaths. This framework, implemented within the EKF algorithm, offers a robust tool for addressing future, unknown pandemics. Moreover, we present a systematic methodology for time-varying parameter estimation along with uncertainty quantification using Saudi Arabia COVID-19 data and obtain the credible confidence intervals of the epidemiological nonlinear dynamical system model parameters.

Comparison of validity of Korean triage and acuity scale levels assessed by triage nurse in real-time and by retrospectively applying strict systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria in patients with fever

The strict application of vital signs has substantial risk of over-triage. Therefore, this study assessed the predictive value of Korean Triage and Acuity Scale (KTAS) level calculated using strict Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) criteria versus that evaluated by a verified triage nurse (TN). The study is based on a retrospective observational cohort of a single-center emergency department (ED) from 01 May 2018 to 30 April 2019. Study subjects were patients aged ≥18 years with fever. Intensive care unit admission rate or death in ED (IADE) and general ward admission rate according to two differently defined KTAS levels were compared by receiver operating characteristic curve and logistic regression. A total of 2322 patients were included. In comparing the area under the curves (AUCs) of TN- and SIRS-KTAS, TN-KTAS’ predictive power for IADE (0.802) was higher than that of SIRS-KTAS (0.7440, p = 0.0489). The odds ratio of level 3 for IADE (1.35) was not significantly different from that of level 4 in SIRS-KTAS (p = 0.5429). In KTAS, the severity of illness in patients was more accurately predicted by the triage nurse’s decision based on clinical experience than the strict application of SIRS criteria with only vital signs.

Analiza sistema testiranja opšte i specifične fizičke pripremljenosti vatrogasaca različitih država sveta i Republike Srbije

The aim of this study is to carry out a comparative analysis of different methodologies for testing the basic and specific physical preparation of firefighters that are applied in different countries of the world and, based on the application of the synthesis of knowledge, to provide a theoretical basis for the optimization and definition of the most adequate model of testing the fire service in the Republic of Serbia. Adequate levels of firefighting skills, physical abilities and energetic mechanisms of energy generation, contribute to reducing the risk of injuries and enable firefighters to resist the overall stress in the profession and to be efficient in specific task realization. Different countries worldwide have different methodologies for testing basic and specific physical preparedness of firefighters. Current testing systems implemented in the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Spain, Sweden and South Korea were analyzed. The analysis found that there is a significant correlation between the values of the basic and specific tests of the physical abilities of firefighters, with the fact that the specific tests are performed in complete personal protection. Based on the synthesis of applied tests and abilities in the analyzed countries, it was established that 24 tests are used to assess basic physical abilities, 14 for specific abilities and 29 for specific physical abilities. In accordance with the established results, it can be concluded that it is necessary to develop specific standardized test procedures for use throughout the fire service in Serbia. In addition to a more efficient assessment of specific physical preparedness, this would also enable control of the state of our firefighters through a more valid comparison of results, which would help in the development of normative data and new methodology needed for more efficient professionalization of the fire service. Established results imply that testing should be conducted biannually with the implementation of specific tests in complete personal protective equipment (PPE) with firefighting equipment. Also, it is necessary to enable adequate testing conditions for firefighters in smaller firefighting units in corresponding testing conditions with equipment.

A New Version of Gumbel Distribution Using Sine Technique Family: Properties, Parameter Estimation, and Data Analysis and Comparison with Fuzzy Data

In this paper, we propose a new version of the Gumbel Distribution using a sine technique family. We discuss the key properties of this distribution, such as the probability density function, the cumulative distribution function, the survival function, the hazard function, the cumulative hazard, and the moments. Additionally, we present a method for estimating the distribution's parameters. We then analyze a dataset using the original and generalized distributions, comparing the results and using goodness-of-fit measures to determine which distribution best fits the data. Finally, we provide conclusions based on our findings, with many examples and valid comparisons applied on fuzzy data.

An empirical study on the print suitability of hybrid modulated screen and digitally modulated screen in offset printing process

DM Screening is the advanced stochastic screening. It combines the best features of other screening technologies like AM, FM, and XM and is compatible with heat-set, cold-set and sheet-fed offset presses. The aim of this research is to identify the print suitability of hybrid modulated screen (XM) and digitally modulated screen (DM) in the offset printing process on a coated substrate by comparing different quality parameters like SID, trapping, print contrast and dot gain. Coated sample sheets are printed with the same solid ink density by using XM and DM screening to make valid comparisons. Around 150 sheets are printed to achieve the target solid ink density value (+ 0.05) during printing. After the density values are attained in accordance with standard SID values, next 50 sample sheets are printed, measured and evaluated.

Validity of Test: English Lecturers perceptions of Test Validity in Intensive Reading Course' Final Exam at Universitas Prima Indonesia in academic year 2022/2023

This study was inspired from the researcher’ effort in order to enrich knowledge related to language testing’ component, one of component is validity and also curiosity to investigate the validity of Intensive Reading Final Test given by English lecturers in University of Prima Indonesia (UNPRI) in academic year 2022/2023. The research addresses two key questions: the lecturers’ perception of test validity in Intensive Reading Final Test in English Education Study Program of Teacher Training and Education Faculty of Universitas Prima Indonesia (UNPRI) and the reason of English lecturers in English Education Study Program of Teacher Training and Education Faculty of Universitas Prima Indonesia (UNPRI) Medan have such perceptions. This study applies qualitative research design in which involving 10 English lecturers at University of Prima Indonesia (UNPRI) as the respondents of this research, analyzing the perception of English lecturers related to validity of test in Intensive Reading Subject Final Exam. Findings shows that lecturers show their positive response to test validity with the information as follows: ALWAYS carry out an analysis of the question items before carrying out the Final Test” is in the percentage of 80%, “FREQUENTLY carry out crosschecks between basic competencies and indicators determined in the questions” is in the percentage of 100 %, “ALWAYS (60 %) and FREQUENTLY (20%) Carry out reliability/consistency measurements (reliability)”, “ALWAYS (60%) Providing feedback on test results given to students. Lecturers take such action in preparing final semester exam questions for Intensive reading courses are: Analyzing test items is crucial in creating effective assessments, Feedback on tests is crucial for students' learning and development, crosschecking between indicators and test items to make sure that educational tests are valid and reliable, the reliability of question items critical for producing accurate, consistent, and trustworthy assessment results. It supports the meaningful interpretation of scores and allows for valid comparisons across individuals or groups. A way to make a high-test validity, it can be done in some ways such as compile the test grid before writing and selecting items to be tested, and making or selecting items on the test based on standard competence, basic competence, learning objectives that have been formulated in the syllabus

A classification system for identifying patients dead on ambulance arrival: a prehospital medical record review

BackgroundPatients dead before arrival of the ambulance or before arrival at hospital may be in- or excluded in mortality analyses, making comparison of mortality difficult. Often only physicians are allowed to declare death, thereby impeding uniform registration of prehospital death. Many studies do not report detailed definitions of prehospital mortality. Our aim was to define criteria to identify and categorize prehospital patients’ vital status, and to estimate the proportion of these groups, primarily the proportion of patients dead on ambulance arrival.MethodsPrehospital medical records review for patients receiving an ambulance in the North Denmark Region from 2019 to 2021 and registered dead on the same or the following day. We defined three vital status categories: (1) Dead on Ambulance Arrival (DOAA), (2) Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) divided into OHCA Basic Life Support (OHCA BLS) and OHCA Advanced treatment, and 3) Alive on Ambulance Arrival.ResultsAmong 3 174 dead patients, DOAA constituted 28.8%, OHCA BLS 13.4%, OHCA Advanced treatment 31.3%, and Alive on Ambulance Arrival 26.6%.ConclusionWe defined exhaustive and mutually exclusive criteria to define vital status, DOAA, OHCA, and Alive on Ambulance Arrival based on prehospital medical records. More than one out of four patients receiving an ambulance and registered dead on the same or the following day were dead already at ambulance arrival. Adding OHCA BLS where resuscitation was terminated without defibrillation or other treatment, increased the proportion of patients dead on ambulance arrival to 42%. We recommend reporting similar categories of vital status to improve valid comparisons of prehospital mortality rates.

SplicingLore: a web resource for studying the regulation of cassette exons by human splicing factors.

One challenge faced by scientists from the alternative RNA splicing field is to decode the cooperative or antagonistic effects of splicing factors (SFs) to understand and eventually predict splicing outcomes on a genome-wide scale. In this manuscript, we introduce SplicingLore, an open-access database and web resource that help to fill this gap in a straightforward manner. The database contains a collection of RNA-sequencing-derived lists of alternative exons regulated by a total of 75 different SFs. All datasets were processed in a standardized manner, ensuring valid comparisons and correlation analyses. The user can easily retrieve a factor-specific set of differentially included exons from the database or provide a list of exons and search which SF(s) control(s) their inclusion. Our simple workflow is fast and easy to run, and it ensures a reliable calculation of correlation scores between the tested datasets. As a proof of concept, we predicted and experimentally validated a novel functional cooperation between the RNA helicases DDX17 and DDX5 and the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (HNRNPC) protein. SplicingLore is available at https://splicinglore.ens-lyon.fr/. Database URL: https://splicinglore.ens-lyon.fr/.

A unified buckling formulation for linear and nonlinear analysis of laminated plates using penalty based [formula omitted] FEM-HSDT model

In this paper, the effect of pre-buckling boundary conditions and the type of nonlinearity for stress stiffening used in different linear and nonlinear buckling approaches is studied for laminated composite plates. The study is conducted using a C0 finite element (FE) plate model, employing a unified C1 higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT). The set of governing equations is derived using the principle of virtual displacement and solved using the tangent-based arc-length method in conjunction with a simple branch switching technique. The performance of the present C0 FE model is assessed through a validation exercise and comparison with results obtained via the use of ANSYS and, for linear analysis, Navier solution, as well as solutions available in the literature. The influence of the different in-plane loads, boundary conditions, side-to-thickness ratio, fiber orientation, types of imperfection and penalty stiffness matrix are also examined. The results show that the same boundary conditions must be utilized in both pre-buckling and linear eigenvalue analyses for accurate and realistic predictions of critical buckling loads, as confirmed from the nonlinear buckling analyses. Furthermore, the critical buckling loads obtained using Green–Lagrange nonlinearity are observed to be more conservative than those obtained using von Kármán nonlinearity. The nonlinear buckling approach is a generalized approach while the nonlinear eigenvalue approach has a limited range of application.

NUMERICAL INVESTIGATION OF TURBULENCE CHARACTERISTICS AND SELF-SIMILARITY IN A HIGHLY AERATED STABLE HYDRAULIC JUMP USING LARGE EDDY SIMULATION

This work presents a numerical study of a stable hydraulic jump at Froude number 4.25 and Reynolds number 1.15×105 inside a horizontal and rectangular channel with a length of 3.2 m, a width of 0.5 m and a height of 0.4 m using large eddy simulation (LES). Classical hydraulic jump characteristics are obtained, such as conjugate depths, jump length, void fraction and velocity profiles. The hydraulic jump maximum streamwise velocity decay and shear layer spreading rate are simulated and compared with experimental data. For these parameters, numerical results demonstrate that is possible to stablish an analogy with other shear flows, such as the horizontal plane wall jet. Profiles of streamwise and vertical components of mean velocity are simulated, and self-similarity is observed for cross-sections located at the recirculation region of the jump. Self-similarity is also observed in terms of turbulent fluctuations, insofar as LES simulations indicate a high level of turbulence in the recirculation region. The simulated root mean square of streamwise velocity fluctuations, , ranges from 0.5 to 0.7 of the maximum cross-sections velocity, whereas the root mean square of vertical component of velocity fluctuations, , stays around 0.5 of the maximum cross-sections velocitiy. All validation comparisons show good agreement with the selected experimental data of Kramer and Valero (2020) and Wang (2014), presenting average deviations always lesser than 5%.

Inconvenient truths about logistic regression and the remedy of marginal effects

AbstractLogistic regression is a standard technique in public administration research. However, there are two inconvenient truths about logistic regression of which scholars should be aware. First, logistic regression results are difficult to interpret. Raw coefficients are expressed in an enigmatic log odds scale and odds ratios are regularly misinterpreted as risk ratios. Second, logistic regression results are non‐collapsible, which renders model comparisons invalid. A review of recent public administration articles reveals that these inconvenient truths still plague the discipline. This paper advocates the use of average marginal effects to reckon with both inconvenient truths. Average marginal effects are easy to comprehend because they measure effect sizes on a probability scale. And average marginal effects are collapsible, and hence facilitate valid model comparisons. These concepts are illustrated using data simulations and data from the 2017 Current Population Survey. The paper concludes with suggestions for improved research practice.

Which fatigue scale should I use? A Rasch analysis of two fatigue scales in inflammatory conditions

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of two widely used fatigue scales in a sample of patients with inflammatory conditions. Methods Rasch analysis was used to examine scale reliability, item bias, unidimensionality and overall fit to the Rasch model. Subtest methodology was utilized to attempt to improve model fit for the Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFQ) and Bristol Rheumatoid Arthritis Fatigue Multidimensional Questionnaire (BRAF-MDQ). Results Initial analysis displayed strong reliability (person separation index 0.89–0.96) alongside a lack of item bias in both scales. However, evidence for unidimensionality was not found for either scale. Overall fit to the Rasch model was marginal for the CFQ and misfitting for the BRAF-MDQ. Local dependency was observed as well as significant item misfit for both scales. Subtest modifications resulted in the best model fit for the BRAF-MDQ [χ2(16) = 15.77, P = 0.469] and the CFQ [χ2(25) = 15.49, P = 0.929]. Modifications resulted in improved fit, reductions in measurement error and the production of ordinal-to-interval conversion tables for both scales. Conversion tables apply the benefits of enhanced measurement accuracy, valid comparison of BRAF-MDQ and CFQ scores to other interval-level data, appropriate use in parametric statistics and enhanced precision in clinical cut-off scores—without the need to change administration format. Conclusion The BRAF-MDQ and CFQ are valid, reliable tools for fatigue assessment. Psychometric indices and content factors suggest the CFQ is suited to measuring general fatigue, particularly when response burden is a concern, while the BRAF-MDQ should be used in clinical presentations where other symptoms are severe and the impact of fatigue on daily living and emotional and social well-being is of interest.

Comparing the reliability and validity of youth-reported checklists and standardized interviews for categorical measurement of emotional and behavioral problems.

Self-completed checklists measuring youth mental health problems produce dimensional scale scores and can be converted to categorical classifications representing the presence/absence of psychopathology. We test whether categorical classifications from scale scores are equivalent psychometrically to categorical classifications of the same problems obtained by lay-administered standardized structured diagnostic interviews. The sample of n = 325 youth aged 12-18 (44% male) and their parent/caregivers come from combined test-retest reliability studies conducted in Ontario, Canada, from 2011 to 2015. Ontario Child Health Study Emotional Behavioural Scales-Brief Version (OCHS-EBS-B)scores converted to categorical classifications of emotional and behavioral problems were compared with interview classifications. We test hypotheses of statistical equivalence and inferiority, using a confidence interval approach to detect if differences lie within the smallest effect size of interest of ±0.18. We compare categorical classifications on: (1) test-retest reliability (ҡ), (2) content validity (between-instrument agreement), and (3) construct validity (strength of association with three mental health-related constructs). Average test-retest reliabilities were 0.695 (checklists) and 0.670 (interviews). The reliability of checklist emotional problem classifications was not inferior to interview classifications and the difference in reliability between instruments for behavioral problems was small (-0.036). Average between-instrument agreement was ҡ = 0.586 (observed) and ҡ = 0.841 (corrected for attenuation due to measurement error) indicating high content overlap. Statistical equivalence criteria were met in 5 of 6 construct validity comparisons. Categorical classifications of emotional and behavioral problems from youth-reported checklists are, on balance, equivalent to interview classifications. Checklists represent a simple, brief, inexpensive alternative to interviews.

Studying the comparability of student perceptions of teaching quality across 38 countries

Student perceptions are rarely used to compare teaching quality across countries due to the challenge of ensuring a comparable construct or achieving exact measurement invariance. The present study aims to evaluate the extent to which student perceptions of teaching quality can be used for valid cross-national comparisons. To this end, the study aims to overcome challenges associated with traditional measurement invariance by applying a novel method – alignment optimization Based on data from 38 countries from the 2019 Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), our results showed limited comparability across countries with variation between behavioral management and instructional clarity scales. We review potential causes of non-comparability using the estimated mean scores. Implications for further research are discussed.

Does strict invariance matter? Valid group mean comparisons with ordered-categorical items

Measurement invariance (MI) of a psychometric scale is a prerequisite for valid group comparisons of the measured construct. While the invariance of loadings and intercepts (i.e., scalar invariance) supports comparisons of factor means and observed means with continuous items, a general belief is that the same holds with ordered-categorical (i.e., ordered-polytomous and dichotomous) items. However, as this paper shows, this belief is only partially true—factor mean comparison is permissible in the correctly specified scalar invariance model with ordered-polytomous items but not with dichotomous items. Furthermore, rather than scalar invariance, full strict invariance—invariance of loadings, thresholds, intercepts, and unique factor variances in all items—is needed when comparing observed means with both ordered-polytomous and dichotomous items. In a Monte Carlo simulation study, we found that unique factor noninvariance led to biased estimations and inferences (e.g., with inflated type I error rates of 19.52%) of (a) the observed mean difference for both ordered-polytomous and dichotomous items and (b) the factor mean difference for dichotomous items in the scalar invariance model. We provide a tutorial on invariance testing with ordered-categorical items as well as suggestions on mean comparisons when strict invariance is violated. In general, we recommend testing strict invariance prior to comparing observed means with ordered-categorical items and adjusting for partial invariance to compare factor means if strict invariance fails.

Evaluation of Easym, a Clonotypic Mass Spectrometry Assay, and Euroflow Minimal Residual Disease Assessment in Multiple Myeloma

Introduction: Minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity is increasingly recognised as the optimal measure of therapeutic response for multiple myeloma (MM) patients and is associated with improved survival. Bone marrow (BM) assessment of MRD with next-generation sequencing (NGS) or next-generation flow cytometry (NGF) can achieve a minimum sensitivity of 10 -5 however an invasive procedure is required. Additionally, this single-site BM biopsy may be limited by specimen quality and failure to capture the spatial heterogeneity of MM. Peripheral blood-based mass spectrometry (PB-based MS) offers the potential for highly sensitive, non-invasive sequential MRD assessment. EasyM is a PB clonotypic MS assay involving de novo amino acid sequencing of the full-length M-protein and quantification of unique peptides with parallel reaction monitoring. EasyM has been compared to 8-colour multiparameter flow cytometry with a sensitivity of 10 -4 (Liyasova et al, Clin Cancer Res, 2021) and clonoSEQ (Slade et al, Blood, 2022), but not to NGF to our knowledge. In this context, we have evaluated EasyM in MM patients undergoing sequential NGF (EuroFlow platform) MRD assessment. Methods: We retrospectively identified MM patients enrolled in the Australasian Leukaemia and Lymphoma Group MM19 (ACTRN12616000772448) and MM21 (ACTRN12618001490268) trials with measurable M-protein ≥2g/L by serum protein electrophoresis and/or free light chains ≥100mg/L at baseline. Briefly, the MM19 trial evaluated the addition of ixazomib to thalidomide and dexamethasone consolidation therapy for 12 months in transplant eligible newly diagnosed MM (TE NDMM) patients undergoing front-line autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), whilst the MM21 trial evaluated an intensive salvage approach using daratumumab-lenalidomide-dexamethasone (DRd) as re-induction (DRd x 4 cycles) and post-ASCT consolidation (DRd x 12 cycles followed by R maintenance until disease progression) in TE NDMM patients failing (<partial response as best response) front-line bortezomib-based induction therapy. NGF MRD status was determined using the standardised 8-colour EuroFlow platform at pre-ASCT, post-ASCT, and end of consolidation timepoints in MM19 and MM21 patients and additionally post-cycle 2 of consolidation in MM21 patients. Matched serum samples were evaluated with the EasyM assay. Concordance between NGF and MS was assessed by the Chi-squared and McNemar's tests. Results: A total of 43 patients were identified for analysis, with 9 MM19 and 34 MM 21 patients. 1 patient was not sequenced due to low baseline values and 2 patients had no clonotypic target tryptic peptides to monitor MRD. EasyM was undetectable (MS-) in 3 (8%) patients. 2 patients achieved MS- pre-ASCT and the third achieved MS- post-cycle 2 of consolidation. All 3 patients remain in complete response (CR) at 44-48 months post-ASCT. Sequential MS (Figure 1) revealed rising EasyM levels in 2 patients, preceding relapse by 15 and 25 months; of note, 1 patient had matched BM and was NGF MRD negative. Serum samples for MS with matched BM for NGF (Table 1) were available for 25 patients pre-ASCT, 32 post-ASCT, 26 post-cycle 2 of consolidation, and 28 end of consolidation with NGF MRD negativity (NGF-) of 8%, 31%, 38%, and 75% at these timepoints, respectively. Of the 111 matched samples in total, 43 (39%) were NGF- but only 7 (6%) were MS-, and 73 (66%) were concordant. The Chi-squared test for association between MS and NGF was not significant at all 4 timepoints. The McNemar's test p-values were >0.999, 0.004, 0.008, and <0.001 for the 4 timepoints, indicating that MS+/NGF- were more likely than MS-/NGF+ discordances at all timepoints except for pre-ASCT. Of the 30 matched samples with confirmed CR status, 5 (17%) were MS+/NGF+, 19 (63%) were MS+/NGF-, and 6 (20%) were MS-/NGF- (Chi-squared and McNemar's p-values of 0.549 and <0.001). Conclusion: This preliminary data highlights the potential of EasyM for sequential PB-based clonotypic MS MRD monitoring in MM. Concordance with standard BM NGF was poor, with 63% of samples with confirmed CR showing detectable M-protein by EasyM but NGF MRD negativity, consistent with the higher sensitivity of EasyM. Comparison of larger sample sets and validation through prospective clinical trials is warranted to better assess the clinical utility of EasyM and rationalise BM-based assessment for MM patients.

Equal Representation of Women in the Superior Judiciary: A Comparative Analysis between Pakistan and the United Kingdom

Abstract Pakistan does not have a senior judiciary that is representative of its population. Women are under-represented. There had never been any female Justices of the Supreme Court of Pakistan until January 2022, when Justice Ayesha Malik was appointed as the first female Supreme Court judge. Although there is no constitutional bar to appointing women to be judges, the system for appointing judges is based on outmoded notions of seniority that are hostile to women’s desire for career progression. The United Kingdom (UK) provides a valid comparison since the legal system of Pakistan is based on English law. The UK has been marginally more successful in promoting female judges. The UK features a more open and transparent system, from which Pakistan should consider borrowing elements, specifically, an independent Judicial Appointments Commission (jac). The UK model suggests that more positive change may occur in the future. A quota system may be effective in increasing appointments in Pakistan, although this may create its own difficulties. More fundamentally, building into the appointments process the recognition that women may have different social responsibilities than men may also facilitate change.