bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cessation of Labrador Sea Convection Triggered by Distinct Fresh and Warm (Sub)Mesoscale Flows
Authors: Clément Louis , Frajka-Williams E. , von Oppeln-Bronikowski N. , Goszczko I. , de Young B.
Published: May 2023

By ventilating the deep ocean, deep convection in the Labrador Sea plays a crucial role in the climate system. Unfortunately, the mechanisms leading to the cessation of convection and, hence, the mechanisms by which a changing climate might affect deep convection remain unclear. In winter 2020, three autonomous underwater gliders sampled the convective region and both its spatial and temporal boundaries. Both boundaries are characterized by higher subdaily mixed layer depth variability sampled by the gliders than the convective region. At the convection boundaries, buoyant intrusions—including eddies and filaments—instead of atmospheric warming primarily trigger restratification by bringing buoyancy with a comparable contribution from either fresh or warm intrusions. At the edges of these intrusions, submesoscale instabilities, such as symmetric instabilities and mixed layer baroclinic instabilities, seem to contribute to the decay of the intrusions. In winter, enhanced lateral buoyancy gradients are correlated with strong destabilizing surface heat fluxes and alongfront winds. Consequently, winter atmospheric conditions and buoyant intrusions participate in halting convection by triggering restratification while surface fluxes are still destratifying. This study reveals freshwater anomalies in a narrow area offshore of the Labrador Current and near the convective region; this area has received less attention than the more eddy-rich West Greenland Current, but is a potential source of freshwater in closer proximity to the region of deep convection. Freshwater fluxes from the Arctic and Greenland are expected to increase under a changing climate, and our findings suggest that they may play an active role in the restratification of deep convection.
Influence of Physically Constrained Initial Perturbations on the Predictability of Mei-Yu Heavy Precipitation
Authors: Ke Jiaying , Mu Mu , Fang Xianghui
Published: May 2023

Based on the conditional nonlinear optimal perturbation (CNOP) approach, the predictability of mei-yu heavy precipitation and its underlying physical processes is investigated. As an extension of our previous work, the practical predictability of heavy precipitation events is studied using more realistic initial perturbations than previously considered. The initial perturbation reflects certain physical connections among multiple variables, including zonal and meridional winds, potential temperature (T), and water vapor mixing ratio (Q). Two types of initial perturbations for the CNOP are identified, with similar spatial distributions but opposite signs and resulting effects. The accumulated precipitation is strengthened with mostly positive perturbations in the T and Q components for the CNOP and weakened by negative perturbations. Comparing downscaling (DOWN) perturbations and random perturbations (RPs) with the CNOP, it is found that the CNOP and DOWN perturbations exhibit particularly large- and mesoscale spatial structures, respectively, while the RPs yield a spatial distribution with mostly convective-scale features. Also, the CNOP results in the largest error growth and forecast uncertainty, especially for Q, followed by the DOWN perturbations; those in the RPs are the smallest. These results provide important implications for optimizing the initial perturbations of convection-permitting ensemble prediction systems, especially precipitation forecasts. Moreover, it is suggested that small-scale related variables, that is, those associated with vertical motion and microphysical processes, are much less predictable than thermodynamic variables, and the errors grow through distinct physical processes for the three types of initial perturbations, that is, those with flow-dependent features.
M-PERC: A New Satellite Microwave-Based Model to Diagnose the Onset of Tropical Cyclone Eyewall Replacement Cycles
Authors: Kossin James P. , Herndon Derrick C. , Wimmers Anthony J. , Guo Xi , Blake Eric S.
Published: May 2023

Eyewall replacement cycles (ERCs) in tropical cyclones (TCs) are generally associated with rapid changes in TC wind intensity and broadening of the TC wind field, both of which can create unique forecasting challenges. As part of the NOAA Joint Hurricane Testbed Project, a new model was developed to provide operational probabilistic guidance on ERC onset. The model is based on the time evolution of TC wind intensity and passive satellite microwave imagery and is named “M-PERC” for Microwave-Based Probability of Eyewall Replacement Cycle. The model was initially developed in the Atlantic basin but is found to be globally applicable and skillful. The development of M-PERC and its performance characteristics are described here, as well as a new intensity prediction model that extends previous work. Application of these models is expected to contribute to a reduction of TC intensity forecast error.
Injury Patterns, Imaging Usage, and Disparities Associated With Car Restraint Use in Children
Authors: McCauley Christopher J. , Purcell Laura N. , Schiro Sharon E. , Nakayama Don K. , McLean Sean E.
Published: May 2023

Background

Motor vehicle collision (MVC) is a leading cause of accidental death in children. Despite effective forms of child safety restraint (eg, car seat and booster seat), studies demonstrate poor compliance with guidelines. The goal of this study was to delineate injury patterns, imaging usage, and potential demographic disparities associated with child restraint use following MVC.

Methods

A retrospective review of the North Carolina Trauma Registry was performed to determine demographic factors and outcomes associated with improper restraint of children (0-8 years) involved in MVC from 2013 to 2018. Bivariate analysis was performed by the appropriateness of restraint. Multivariable Poisson regression identified demographic factors for the relative risk of inappropriate restraint.

Results

Inappropriately restrained patients were older (5.1 years v. 3.6 yrs, P < .001) and weighed more (44.1 lbs v. 35.3 lbs, P < .001). A higher proportion of African American (56.9% v. 39.3%, P < .001) and Medicaid (52.2% v. 39.0%, P < .001) patients were inappropriately restrained. Multivariable Poisson regression showed that African American patients (RR 1.43), Asian patients (RR 1.51), and Medicaid payor status (RR 1.25) were associated with a higher risk of inappropriate restraint. Inappropriately restrained patients had a longer length of stay, but injury severity score and mortality were no different.

Discussion

African American children, Asian children, and Medicaid insurance payor status patients had an increased risk of inappropriate restraint use in MVC. This study describes unequal restraint patterns in children, which suggests opportunity for targeted patient education and necessitates research to further delineate the underlying etiology of these differences.
Evaporative Crystallization of Simvastatin from Different Solutions Using Mid-Frequency Raman Difference Spectra Explanations
Authors: Chen Xinyuan , Chen Xiuzhi , Sun Hongyan , Li Xiumin , Ren Shizhao , Jin Can , Jin Hongjun , Chen Fenghua , Xue Rongrong
Published: May 2023

Amorphous simvastatin (amorphous SIM) and Form I of SIM were prepared separately from SIM acetone (AC)/ethyl acetate (ETAC)/ethanol (ET) solutions by simply controlling the solvent evaporation rate, and the kinetic formation of amorphous SIM from SIM AC/ETAC/ET solutions was explained using mid-frequency Raman difference spectra analysis. The mid-frequency Raman difference spectra analysis results indicate that the amorphous phase has close connections with solutions and might be the bridge, playing an important role in the intermediate phase, between solutions and their outcome polymorphs.
Elucidating the Elements of Clinical Case Consultation in Cognitive Processing Therapy
Authors: Landy Meredith S. H. , Vezer Esztella , Bance Sheena , Loskot Taylor , Ip Jennifer , Zeifman Ariella P. , Mutschler Christina , Thomas Fiona C. , McShane Kelly , Monson Candice M. , Stirman Shannon Wiltsey
Published: May 2023

Research shows the value of consultation following training in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a frontline psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder; however, the elements of successful CPT consultation are not delineated. This study’s aim was to elucidate the elements of successful consultation in CPT. Participants ( N = 41) were mental health clinicians, including psychologists, social workers, nurses, and psychiatrists, and consultants ( N = 4), who provided clinical case consultation. The clinicians participated in group clinical case consultation for 6 months following their workshop participation. Thirty audio recorded consultation calls were analyzed using thematic analysis. Elements were identified and organized according to the following themes: Organization, Knowledge Consolidation, Case Conceptualization, Directive Instruction, Nondirective Instruction, and Provision of Feedback. Important next steps include: (a) developing a model positing how the elements of successful clinical case consultation in CPT fit together and (b) identifying its mechanisms.
Integrating 50 Years of Theory and Research: Suggestions for Directions on Women’s Career Development
Authors: Betz Nancy E.
Published: May 2023

This article reviews the methods, major findings, and conclusions of the Fouad et al. review of research on women's work and career development over the last 25 years. Following that, the paper addresses the question posed by Fouad et al. "Why arent we there yet"?, providing several examples of approaches to the development of separate theories of women's career development. The article concludes with counseling, training and societal implications.
Improving Workers’ Musculoskeletal Health During Human-Robot Collaboration Through Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Xie Ziyang , Lu Lu , Wang Hanwen , Su Bingyi , Liu Yunan , Xu Xu
Published: May 2023

Objective

This study aims to improve workers’ postures and thus reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders in human-robot collaboration by developing a novel model-free reinforcement learning method.

Background

Human-robot collaboration has been a flourishing work configuration in recent years. Yet, it could lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders if the collaborative tasks result in awkward postures for workers.

Methods

The proposed approach follows two steps: first, a 3D human skeleton reconstruction method was adopted to calculate workers’ continuous awkward posture (CAP) score; second, an online gradient-based reinforcement learning algorithm was designed to dynamically improve workers’ CAP score by adjusting the positions and orientations of the robot end effector.

Results

In an empirical experiment, the proposed approach can significantly improve the CAP scores of the participants during a human-robot collaboration task when compared with the scenarios where robot and participants worked together at a fixed position or at the individual elbow height. The questionnaire outcomes also showed that the working posture resulted from the proposed approach was preferred by the participants.

Conclusion

The proposed model-free reinforcement learning method can learn the optimal worker postures without the need for specific biomechanical models. The data-driven nature of this method can make it adaptive to provide personalized optimal work posture.

Application

The proposed method can be applied to improve the occupational safety in robot-implemented factories. Specifically, the personalized robot working positions and orientations can proactively reduce exposure to awkward postures that increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. The algorithm can also reactively protect workers by reducing the workload in specific joints.
Fixed-time disturbance observer based robust tracking control of wheeled mobile robot with multiple disturbances
Authors: Guo Yijun
Published: May 2023

In this article, the problem of robust tracking control for wheeled mobile robot (WMR) with skidding, slipping, and parameter uncertainties is addressed. Through designing double sliding mode variables, a fixed time disturbance observer is developed to estimate the multiple disturbances within a fixed time, and the convergence time is regardless of the initial estimation error of the system. Based on the fixed-time disturbance observer (FTDOB) and the novel power reaching law sliding mode technique, a robust tracking controller is synthesized. The proposed control method eliminates the chattering problem existing in the traditional sliding mode control, and can guarantee the high-precision tracking control performance even in the presence of skidding, slipping and parameter uncertainties. The closed-loop system stability analysis is verified by the Lyapunov stability theory. Meanwhile, simulation comparative results are carried out to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Co-Occurring Disorders: Is There a Relationship Among ACEs, Mental Health Issues, and Substance Use Among Inmates?
Authors: Crick Skylar N. , Crittenden Courtney A. , Policastro Christina N. , Garland Tammy S. , Dierenfeldt Rick
Published: May 2023

Previous literature has shown that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a factor in future criminal behavior, victimization, and overall health. Research has also found that co-occurring disorders (CODs) are prevalent among inmates with approximately half of inmates meeting the criteria of mental health and substance use disorders in previous studies. Exposure to ACEs and drug use may also be higher in rural, Appalachian areas with the opioid crisis impacting adults and children alike. Moreover, research has indicated that some relationships, such as parenthood, may serve as protective factors for those involved in the justice system. The current study explores the relationship between ACEs and CODs, specifically in the areas of substance use and mental health among a rural jail sample. This study utilizes an Inmate History and Needs interview survey completed by 166 inmates (59 females, 107 males) from three different rural jails in a southern state to examine the relationship between ACEs and CODs among inmates, if CODs differ among male and female inmates, and the relationship between parents, CODs, and living with their children prior to arrest. We found that inmates in our study report high rates of ACEs, mental health issues, and drug use, and there is a significant relationship between exposure to ACEs and CODs.
Fixed-time consensus of second-order multi-agent systems with nonlinear dynamics
Authors: Li Zijing , Wu Jie , Zhan Xisheng , Han Tao , Yan Huaicheng
Published: May 2023

The authors mainly discuss finite-time tracking consensus and fixed-time tracking consensus of multi-agent systems for second-order with inherent nonlinear function and disturbance under a directed interaction graph in this work. By sliding mode control theory, consensus tracking controllers are proposed to ensure that sliding mode can be reached and maintain on it in finite time and fixed time. By using some theoretical knowledge of control, such as graph theory and Lyapunov theory, we make the system to reach consensus in finite time and fixed time by choosing the right parameters. In addition, the calculation leads to the conclusion that settling time of finite-time consensus is associated to initial state, while settling time of fixed-time consensus is interrelated to parameters but not to the initial state. The feasibility of the theory is proved by simulation experiments.
Event-triggered adaptive multi-dimensional Taylor network tracking control for stochastic nonlinear systems
Authors: Du Yang , Zhu Shan-Liang , Han Yu-Qun
Published: May 2023

For a class of stochastic nonlinear systems, this paper proposes a novel event-triggered adaptive control scheme by means of multi-dimensional Taylor network (MTN) approach for the first time, which has the advantages of alleviating computational burden and reducing communication frequency. In addition, the event-triggered control (ETC) strategy can effectively save network resource by alleviating the computational burden and reducing the communication frequency. Therefore, the proposed control approach can not only reduce communication frequency but also further alleviate computational burden, thereby saving network resource to a greater extent. The proposed control scheme ensures that all signals of the system are semi-global uniformly ultimately bounded (SGUUB) in probability and the tracking error can be made arbitrarily small by choosing appropriate design parameters. Meanwhile, Zeno behavior can be avoided. Finally, two simulation results are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
“Tell Me Who You Are and I’ll Tell You What You Are”:Postcolonial Theory and Representations and Perceptions of Ethnic Minority Groups. The Case of Mizrahim and Israeli Arabs on Israeli Television
Authors: Katz Nissim
Published: May 2023

This theoretical article shows the benefits of using postcolonial theory in research of presentations and perceptions of ethnic minority groups on television. It introduces postcolonial theory and applies it to two minority ethnic groups in Israel: The Mizrahim and Israeli Arabs, analyzing their representations on mainstream Israeli television shows. This article also offers using a psychological theory called “media boundary situation” in order to discover perceptions of ethnic minority groups based on research of Mizrahim and Israeli-Arabs. The article assesses how postcolonial theory can be used to attain a better understating the unique representations of an ethnic groups and to develop an understanding of the perceptions of them.
Depression and Reciprocal Language Style Matching in Text Messages
Authors: Weinstein Mariani , Jensen Michaeline
Published: May 2023

This study investigates whether interpersonal coordination of language style in written text message communication relates to past-year depressive symptoms and lifetime major depressive disorder (MDD) in young adults. Consistent with application of Joiner's integrative interpersonal framework to interpersonal coordination, we hypothesized that students with more experiences of depression, and their conversation partners, would engage in less interpersonal coordination in text messages (indexed by reciprocal language style matching of function words; rLSM). College students at a large southeastern university ( N = 263) contributed two weeks of text messages in 2014−2015, alongside a mental health survey. Texts were filtered to dyads that used formal English (207,942 talk turns), accommodating limitations of LSM measurement. Structural equation models showed that students with more past-year depressive symptoms and lifetime MDD coordinated more (opposite the hypothesized direction of effect). Implications for interpersonal processes in depression and measurement of rLSM in text messages are discussed.
Actor and partner effects of prenatal coparenting behavior on postpartum depression in first-time parents
Authors: Estlein Roi , Shai Dana
Published: May 2023

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common mental health complication of pregnancy and childbirth with long- and short-term consequences for the wellbeing and the functioning of parents. In particular, first-time parents seem to be at high risk for developing post-birth depressive symptoms as the transition to parenthood elevates stress and demands adjustment to significant changes. Prior research has mostly documented individual characteristics, such as prenatal depression and psychiatric history, as predictors of PPD, but much less is known about the potential contribution of interpersonal processes within relational contexts, such as the coparenting relationship, to PPD among first-time mothers and fathers. With evidence suggesting that coparenting dynamics start developing prior to the birth, it is imperative to consider characteristics of coparenting interaction behaviors as early as during pregnancy to identify such behaviors as risk or protective factors for PPD. In the current study, we explored one’s own (actor) and partner’s observed prenatal coparenting behaviors as predictors of mothers' and fathers' PPD. A mixed-method longitudinal study with 107 expectant couples provided both partners' self-report measures and observational data from interaction tasks prenatally, and at 3 and 6 months post-birth. APIM multilevel model analyses revealed that both negative (i.e., withdrawal and conflict) and positive (i.e., communication skills, support, and problem solving attempts) prenatal coparenting behaviors were uniquely predictive of PPD among first-time parents above and beyond other potential predictors of PPD, although several similarities and dissimilarities among fathers and mothers were detected.
Appropriation of mobile phones in the rural African societies: Case study of the Fulani pastoralists in Northern Benin
Authors: Jimmy Kouete Paul , Edja Ange Honorat , Djohy Georges
Published: May 2023

The study aims to analyze the appropriation of mobile phones among the Fulani Pastoralists in the Northern Benin. A multidimensional approach of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was adopted. In total, 380 Fulani pastoralists were surveyed. Data was collected through a questionnaire on the total number of weekly calls, the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents, and the perceived usefulness and the perceived ease of use. A 5-point Likert scale was used to measure the perceived usefulness and the perceived ease of use considering the multiple dimensions identified. The linear regression model is used for the analysis of determinants of the total number of weekly calls. Results show a dual appropriation of mobile phone with regard to its usage for communicative function and/or distractive function. These results suggest that the mobile phone-based livestock advisory services using pre-recorded audio and video materials are promising within these herders’ communities.
Diagnostic value of high-frequency ultrasound for Poland syndrome
Authors: Cui Liyuan , Wang Tiezheng , Liu Lihua , Teng Jianbo , Qi Hengtao
Published: May 2023

Background

The imaging diagnosis of Poland syndrome is mostly computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), whereas high-frequency ultrasound for the diagnosis of Poland syndrome is relatively rare.

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic value of high-frequency ultrasound for Poland syndrome.

Material and Methods

A retrospective analysis of 15 patients diagnosed with Poland syndrome was performed, and the characteristics of ultrasound images were summarized.

Results

High-frequency ultrasound clearly depict the anatomical structures of each layer of the chest wall in patients with Poland syndrome. Ultrasonography mainly showed partial or total absence of the pectoralis major muscle on the affected side, and some of which were combined with the absence of the pectoralis minor muscle. The difference was statistically significant in the thickness of the affected chest wall compared with the healthy side ( P < 0.01). Out of 15 cases with Poland syndrome, 11 were associated with ipsilateral brachydactyly or syndactyly, and high-frequency ultrasonography showed that the bifurcation position of the common palmar digital artery on the affected finger was lower than that on the healthy side.

Conclusion

High-frequency ultrasound is an effective imaging method for the diagnosis of Poland syndrome.
Capillary leak syndrome presenting as refractory ascites in a patient with lymphoma: A rare case report
Authors: Han Xu , Huang Huanjun , Zhang Mingyu , Wen Yue , Wang Shuhui , Huang Zheng , Tian Dean , Yu Yan
Published: May 2023

Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) is a serious disorder characterized by hypotension and refractory systemic oedema. CLS with marked ascites rather than systemic oedema is rare and prone to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment. We report here a case of marked ascites in an elderly male patient with hepatitis B virus reactivation. Following investigations to exclude common diseases that may have accounted for diffuse oedema and hypercoagulable state, anti-cirrhosis therapy failed and severe refractory shock developed 48 hours after admission. The patient developed mild pleural effusions followed by swelling of the face, neck, and extremities. A high cytokine concentration gradient was detected between serum and ascites. Peritoneal biopsy showed lymphoma cells. The final diagnosis was lymphoma recurrence complicated with CLS. Our case suggests that cytokine detection in serum and ascitic fluid may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of CLS. In similar cases, decisive intervention, such as, hemodiafiltration, should be implemented to lessen the likelihood of serious complications.
Prognostic analysis and clinical characteristics of osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma of the rib, sternum, and clavicle: a SEER-based study
Authors: He Fangming , Wang Zhan , Chen Genlian , Lu Huanxin
Published: May 2023

Objective

Osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma of the rib, sternum, and clavicle are rare tumor entities, and their clinical features and treatment outcomes have been rarely reported. The present study was performed to evaluate their survival and confirm independent survival predictors.

Methods

Data on patients with osteosarcoma or Ewing sarcoma of the rib, sternum, and clavicle from 1973 to 2016 were retrospectively extracted from the database. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to determine the independent risk factors. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were applied to examine the prognostic difference between the groups.

Results

In total, 475 patients with osteosarcoma or Ewing sarcoma of the rib, sternum, and clavicle were eligible for this study, including 173 (36.4%) with osteosarcoma and 302 (63.6%) with Ewing sarcoma. The 5-year overall survival and cancer-specific survival rates of all patients were 53.6% and 60.8%, respectively. Six independent variables were identified, including age at diagnosis, sex, histological grade, metastatic status, tumor type, and surgery.

Conclusions

Surgical resection is a reliable treatment for osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma of the rib, sternum, and clavicle. Further research is needed to reconfirm the role of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in survival of these patients.
Carnal concepts in action: The diagonal sociology of Loïc Wacquant
Authors: Wacquant Loïc , Vandebroeck Dieter
Published: May 2023

Written in the form of a dialogue with Brussels sociologist Dieter Vandebroeck, this article retraces the social and intellectual trajectory of Loïc Wacquant as stepping stone to reviewing and discussing the major concepts coined and theoretical propositions elaborated in the course of his research on comparative urban marginality, racial domination, the ghetto, the penal state, neoliberalism, and carnality. This provides an opportunity to specify the relationships between ethnography, history and theory; the dialectic of domination and resistance; the role of public (dis)honor in social life; the uses of Bourdieu's bureaucratic field; and the social and academic conditions of incubation, diffusion, and death of scholarly myths such as the “underclass.” The article closes on a call to clearly distinguish the rhetorical, metaphorical, and analytical usages of concepts and reaffirms the need for epistemic reflexivity as sine qua non for the articulation of robust scientific problematics.
Structure and Sources of Core Self-Evaluations: Construct Validation Using Multi-Rater and Genetically Informative Designs
Authors: Instinske Jana , Kandler Christian
Published: May 2023

Self-efficacy, internal locus of control, self-esteem and emotional stability are characterized by substantial theoretical overlap and empirical associations. In previous research, these four characteristics were frequently suggested to represent a common personality construct referred to as core self-evaluations (CSE). However, neither the structure of the construct CSE has been sufficiently validated nor its genetic and environmental sources examined, so far. The current study bridges this gap. Applying multitrait-multirater analyses of 2377 self- and 1176 informant-reports, we found substantial common variance beyond self-rater specificity, item specificity and random measurement error. Furthermore, using genetically informative data from 1146 twins, we investigated common and specific genetic and environmental sources of variance in the four characteristics. Common variance was substantially attributable to additive genetic and nonshared environmental influences, which were mediated by a higher-order latent variable. The results support the validity of the construct’s hierarchical structure with a common latent core trait accounting for the covariance between the four characteristics. Beyond nonshared environmental components specific to the four characteristics, nonadditive genetic sources accounted for common variance in self-efficacy and internal locus of control, whereas specific additive genetic factors explained variance in emotional stability, implying that these characteristics also include divergently valid aspects of personality.
Am I ready to graduate? Management majors’ perceived collegiate skill development
Authors: Routon P W , Rawls Janita , Bontrager Marvin
Published: May 2023

We examine 15 skills of graduating management majors as measured by self-rated perceptions of change during their college tenure. The sample includes 520,052 students from 697 higher education institutions in the United States. The research questions are: (1) As judged by management majors themselves, how much have their skills changed as a result of higher education? (2) How do these self-perceptions compare to other students? (3) What is the estimated impact of a management degree on these changes? Notable findings include that at least 90% of students reporting stronger, if not much stronger, skills in the categories of general knowledge, critical thinking, analytics, problem solving, and knowledge of their chosen field (management). However, other skills such as leadership are reported by 16% of management students as experiencing no change. The ratings of communication skills categories of public speaking and writing reported 17% of each category as no change or weaker skills is these areas. Study findings are discussed along with recommendations for future research.
Financial instability and environmental degradation: Evidence from South Asia
Authors: Abbas Faisal
Published: May 2023

This study examines the impact of financial instability (FI) on environmental degradation (ED) along with economic growth (EG), foreign direct investment (FDI), and energy consumption (EC) in five South Asian economies from 1980 to 2021. The study uses a fixed-effect panel model and a two-step system GMM for robust outcomes. The empirical findings demonstrate that FI has a positive and significant effect on ED in South Asian economies. However, the impact of FI on ED varies across South Asian countries. Overall, the impacts of EG, FDI, and EG are positive and significant on ED in South Asia. The effects of EG, FDI, and EG are also heterogeneous for countries in South Asia. However, FDI reduces ED in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India. Therefore, the study provides several policy recommendations to combat ED in the South Asian region.
Unbiased prediction errors for partial least squares regression models: Choosing a representative error estimator for process monitoring
Authors: Skou Peter B , Tonolini Margherita , Eskildsen Carl Emil , Berg Frans van den , Rasmussen Morten Arendt
Published: May 2023

Partial least squares (PLS) regression is widely used to predict chemical analytes from spectroscopic data, thus reducing the need for expensive and time-consuming wet chemical reference analysis in industrial process monitoring. However, predictions via PLS by definition carry sample-specific errors, and estimation of these errors is essential for correct interpretation of results. To increase trust in PLS regression-based predictions, reliable prediction error estimates must be reported. This can be achieved by determining realistic sample-specific prediction errors using an unbiased mean squared prediction error estimate. This work provides a guide for estimating sample-specific prediction errors, showing the importance of choosing an appropriate error estimator prior to deploying PLS models for industrial applications. We reviewed recent and established methods for estimating the sample-specific prediction error and test them through simulation studies. The methods were subsequently applied for estimating prediction errors in two real-life datasets from the food ingredients industry, where near-infrared spectroscopy was used to quantify i) urea in process water and ii) individual protein concentrations in ultrafiltration retentates from a protein fractionation process. Both the simulations and real data examples showed that the mean squared error of calibration is always a downward biased estimator. Although leave-one-out-cross-validation performed surprisingly well in the data analysed in this work, this paper demonstrated that the appropriate choice of error estimator requires the user to make an informed, data-centered decision.
Review: The evolution of chemometrics coupled with near infrared spectroscopy for fruit quality evaluation. II. The rise of convolutional neural networks
Authors: Walsh Jeremy , Neupane Arjun , Koirala Anand , Li Michael , Anderson Nicholas
Published: May 2023

The Part 1 prequel to this review evaluated the evolution of modelling techniques used in evaluation of fruit quality over the past three decades and noted a progression towards the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). In this review, Part 2, the use of CNNs for NIR fruit quality evaluation is explored, given the success of CNNs in various other fields, such as image, video, speech, and audio processing, and the availability of large (open source) datasets of fruit spectra and reference quality attribute, which is required for the training of CNN models. The review provides an overview of deep learning and the CNN architectures and techniques used in NIR spectroscopy for regression modelling, with advantages and disadvantages identified. Studies using CNN for NIR based fruit quality evaluation are then critically examined. Eight publications have presented on models using the same open-source mango dry matter calibration and test set, enabling inter-method comparisons. CNN models have been demonstrated to be accurate, precise and robust. Techniques of transfer learning for CNN models offer an alternative solution to model updating and calibration transfer methods applied in traditional chemometrics. The review has highlighted crucial areas that require resolution and exploration in this application through future research, including, (i) data requirements for training a CNN (ii) optimal spectral pre-processing for CNN (iii) CNN architecture and hyper-parameter selection and tuning for fruit quality evaluation (iv) CNN model interpretability and explainability. Future studies must conduct clearer comparison to partial least squares (PLS) regression and shallow ANNs to better assess the prospective benefit of using CNN, a more complex model. The potential for visualisation of spectra relevance to the CNN model using techniques such as GradCam, currently employed in visualising 2D-CNN models, remains to be explored.
Couples’ Coping Strategies with Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation: A Qualitative Dyadic Study
Authors: Golan Maya , Vilchinsky Noa , Wolf Hodaya , Abuhazira Miri , Ben-Gal Tuvia , Naimark Ari
Published: May 2023

A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is a mechanical device that treats advanced heart failure. Patients coping with an LVAD need extensive instrumental and medical support, which is usually provided by the spouse. Therefore, it seems that dyadic coping strategies play a crucial role as either mitigators or hinderers of couples’ illness management in the context of LVADs. The aim of this research was to formulate a typology of dyadic coping strategies applied by these couples, as unfolded in their mutual and individual subjective experiences. The research was performed in collaboration with an LVAD implantation unit at a medium-sized hospital in Israel. Couples ( N = 17) participated in an in-depth dyadic interview using a semi-structured interview guide, and the data collected were analyzed using content analysis. Our findings suggest that couples coping with an LVAD develop strategies for handling fear, processing and accepting their illness narratives, adjusting their level of independence and intimacy, and utilizing humor. Moreover, our analysis showed that each couple utilized a unique mix of dyadic coping strategies. To the best of our knowledge, the current study is the first to explore the dyadic coping strategies of couples coping with an LVAD. Our results may constitute a base for developing dyadic intervention programs and clinical recommendations to improve the quality of life and relationships of patients and their spouses while coping with LVAD implementation.
Pre-Empting Stigma and Complicating Trauma: Narratives of Gay and Bisexual Men who Inject Drugs in Australia
Authors: Schroeder Sophia E. , Treloar Carla , Bourne Adam , Stoové Mark , Doyle Joseph , Hellard Margaret , Pedrana Alisa
Published: May 2023

Gay and bisexual men (GBM) report higher rates of sexualised and injecting drug use (IDU) than heterosexual men. Injecting-related stigma is linked to negative health outcomes among people who inject drugs (PWID). This paper describes the ways in which stigmatisation manifests in the narratives of GBM who inject drugs. We conducted in-depth interviews with Australian GBM with IDU histories, exploring drug use, pleasure, risk, and relationality. Data were analysed using discourse analytical approaches. Interviewees (n = 19), aged 24–60 years, narrated their experiences of IDU practice over 2–32 years. Most (n = 18) injected methamphetamine, and used other (non-injected) drugs, in sexual contexts. From participants’ narratives, we developed two themes related to stigmatisation of PWID that illustrate the limitations of conventional drug discourses to narrate GBM’s experiences. The first theme captures participants’ attempts to pre-empt stigmatisation, outlining the layering of stigma faced by GBM who inject drugs. Linguistically, participants transformed injecting stigma by distinguishing their personal practice from that of more discreditable drug users. Practically, they mitigated stigmatisation by keeping discrediting information from others. The second theme illustrates how by complicating the stereotypes of IDU, participants took up prominent discursive practices linking IDU with trauma and pathology. Participants exerted agency by broadening available interpretive repertoires for understanding IDU among GBM, thus creating a counter-discourse. We argue that mainstream discursive practices reverberate through gay communities, perpetuating stigmatisation of PWID and inhibiting care-seeking. More narration of unconventional experiences, beyond insular social groups and critical scholarship, is needed in public discourse to effect destigmatisation.
Nonlinear dynamic analysis on centrifugal stiffening of rotating cracked tapered functionally graded beam for flap-wise vibrations
Authors: Kumar G. Deepak , Panigrahi B.
Published: May 2023

Vibration-based condition monitoring for remotely located rotating blades is one of the important aspects to avoid sudden breakdown of the machinery. Vibration analysis of damaged blades provides the information to identify the damage during operation. In this work, dynamic attributes of rotating cracked tapered cantilever functionally graded material (FGM) beams for various tapered configurations are investigated using energy method. The nonlinearity due to in plane stretching as a result of large deformations is taken in to consideration. Nonlinear governing equations for cracked rotating tapered FGM beams are generated by optimizing the energy functional. An iterative algorithm is developed to solve the derived nonlinear equations. The effects corresponding to location of crack and centrifugal stiffening on the various modes has been presented for different tapered configurations, material indices, crack depths and rotational speeds. Crack compensating speeds are studied and reported for different tapered ratios and crack parameters for the first time. The effect of crack location and crack depth on the first two nonlinear frequency ratios is also investigated for different tapered configurations and material indices. The influence of centrifugal stiffening on nonlinear responses of FGM beams is presented for various crack parameters and tapered configurations.
The exact spectral element modeling and vibration analysis of the acoustic black hole double-beam system
Authors: Sheng Hui , He Meng-Xin , Ding Qian
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we present a study of vibration characteristics of the double-beam structures combined with the concept of the acoustic black hole (ABH), which is an effective technique for vibration and noise control. In the proposed double-beam structure, the ABH beam as the vibration damper is attached to the primary uniform beam by a range of translational and rotational springs. We formulate the closed-form spectral element matrix of the double-beam structure and calculate the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the system. The results demonstrate the ABH effect of increasing the modal damping ratios. We also study the power flow and mechanical intensity of the system to offer physical insight into the vibration suppression mechanism of the ABH. A detailed parametric analysis of both translational and rotational springs is carried out. The investigation contributes to the exact dynamic modelling and analysis of the double-beam system containing ABH elements. Furthermore, the proposed ABH double-beam structure shows great potential for vibration control and energy harvesting.
Treading Water: Planning for Sea Level Rise in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Grandage Andrew J. , Hines Robert E. , Willoughby Katherine G.
Published: May 2023

We provide original research on planning for sea level rise (SLR) in the southeastern United States. Our analysis of 85 coastal counties finds that most are in the early stages, having recognized SLR as a general threat to their coastal communities. However, relatively few evidence comprehensive analysis of risk across their portfolio of infrastructure assets and service areas. Using a staged planning model, we find that strong information gathering contributes to greater breadth when considering adaptive measures. Ultimately, integration of risk management and comprehensive planning can help create adaptive pathways by identifying short-term, low-regret actions while preserving options for an uncertain future.
Chronic Ankle Instability and Associated Self-Reported Function in South African Professional Ballet Dancers
Authors: Stander Cherezane , van der Merwe Anke , Nel Mariette
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Ankle sprains are the most common acute injury among dancers and may result in the development of chronic ankle instability (CAI). Chronic ankle instability is characterized by recurrent ankle sprains, incidents of the ankle “giving way,” and sensations of instability and has been reported to negatively impact functioning and psychosocial status. The large number of ankle sprains in addition to contextual factors relating to professional dancing, suggests that CAI may be a significant problem in professional ballet dancers. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CAI and describe the ankle injury history and level of self-reported function in South African ballet dancers.

Methods:

This descriptive, cross-sectional study included all professional ballet dancers employed by three professional South African ballet companies (n = 65). The Identification of Functional Ankle Instability Questionnaire (IdFAI), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Dance Functional Outcome Survey (DFOS), and a researcher-developed injury history questionnaire were completed by consenting participants. Descriptive statistics were calculated.

Results:

A CAI prevalence of 73.3% CI [55.6%, 85.8%] was calculated among 30 participants. Twenty-five (83.3%) participants reported sustaining at least one significant ankle sprain with 88% (n = 22) indicating dance related activities as the cause. Dancers with CAI demonstrated a tendency to have less control over their ankles giving way and tended to take longer to recover from their ankles giving way than those dancers not affected. Eight participants (36.4%) with CAI were identified as having a significant level of disability on the FAAM activities of daily living (ADL) subscale and six participants (27.3%) on the sport subscale. Participants with CAI had a median total score of 83.5; IQR [80 - 90] on the DFOS.

Conclusion:

The self-reported function of South African professional ballet dancers is not severely affected, however, the high prevalence of CAI and reported symptoms is concerning. Education on CAI symptoms, prevention, and evidence-based management is recommended.
A Systematic Review of Cardiorespiratory Fitness Tests Used in Dance
Authors: Tiemens Annemiek , van Rijn Rogier M. , Koes Bart W. , Stubbe Janine H.
Published: May 2023

Dancers need adequate cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) levels in order to cope with the demands of dance classes and choreographies. Screening and monitoring of CRF is advised. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of tests used to assess CRF in dancers and to examine the measurement properties of these tests. A literature search was performed in three online databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and SPORTDiscus) up until August 16, 2021. Study inclusion criteria were: 1. a CRF test was used; 2. participants were ballet, contemporary or modern, or jazz dancers; and 3. English full-text peer-reviewed article. General study information, participant information, CRF test used, and study outcome were extracted. If available, measurement property data were extracted (i.e., test reliability, validity, responsiveness, and interpretability). Of the 48 articles included in the review, most used a maximal treadmill test (n = 22) or the multistage Dance Specific Aerobic Fitness test (DAFT; n = 11). Out of the 48 included studies, only six examined the measurement properties of CRF tests: Aerobic Power Index (API), Ballet-specific Aerobic Fitness Test (B-DAFT), DAFT, High-Intensity Dance Performance Fitness Test (HIDT), Seifert Assessment of Functional Capactiy for Dancers (SAFD), and the 3-minute step test. Good test-retest reliability was found for the B-DAFT, DAFT, HIDT, and SAFD. Criterion validity was determined for the VO2peak of the API, the 3-MST, HIDT, and SAFD. For HRpeak, criterion validity was studied for the 3-MST, HIDT, and SAFD. While different CRF tests are being used in descriptive and experimental research within dance populations, the body of research supporting the measurement properties of such tests is very small. As many studies have methodological flaws (e.g., small participant numbers or no statistical analysis for validity or reliability), additional good quality research is required to re-examine and complement current measurement property results of the API, B-DAFT, DAFT, HIDT, SAFD, and 3-MST.