Search

To fight climate change, it is crucial to have a precise knowledge of greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations in the atmosphere and to monitor sources and sinks of GHGs. On global scales, satellites are an appropriate monitoring tool. For the validation of the satellite measurements and to tie them to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) trace gas scale, ground-based Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) networks are used, which provide reference data. To ensure the highest-quality validation data, the network must be scaled to the WMO trace gas scale and have a very small site-to-site bias. Currently, the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) is the de facto standard FTIR network for providing reference data. Ensuring a small site-to-site bias is a major challenge for the TCCON. In this work, we describe the development and application of a new method to evaluate the site-to-site bias by using a remotely controlled portable FTIR spectrometer as a travel standard (TS) for evaluating the consistency of columnar GHG measurements performed at different TCCON stations, and we describe campaign results for the TCCON sites in Tsukuba (Japan), East Trout Lake (Canada) and Wollongong (Australia). The TS is based on a characterized portable EM27/SUN FTIR spectrometer equipped with an accurate pressure sensor which is operated in an automated enclosure. The EM27/SUN is the standard instrument of the Collaborative Carbon Column Observing Network (COCCON). The COCCON is designed such that all spectrometers are referenced to a common reference unit located in Karlsruhe, Germany. To evaluate the long-term stability of the TS instrument, it is placed side-by-side with the TCCON instrument in Karlsruhe (KA) and the COCCON reference unit (the EM27/SUN spectrometer SN37, which is operated permanently next to the TCCON-KA site) between deployments to collect comparing measurements. At each of the visited TCCON sites, the TCCON spectrometers collected low-resolution (LR) (0.5 cm-1) and high-resolution (HR) (0.02 cm-1) measurements in an alternating manner. Based on the TS as a portable standard, the measurements are compared to the Karlsruhe site as a common reference. For Tsukuba and Wollongong, the agreement with the reference in Karlsruhe found for XCO2 is on the 0.1 % level for both the LR and HR measurements. For XCH4 , the agreement is at the 0.2 % level, with the low-resolution measurements showing a low bias at both sites and for both gases. For XCO , the deviations are up to 7 %. The reason for this is likely to be a known issue with the CO a priori profiles used by the TCCON over source regions. In East Trout Lake (ETL), the TCCON spectrometer broke down while the TS was en route to the station. Hence, no side-by-side comparison was possible there. An important auxiliary value for FTIR retrievals is the surface pressure. Using the pressure sensor in the TS, the surface pressure measurements at each site are also compared. The surface pressure analysis reveals excellent agreement (0.027, 0.135 and 0.094 hPa) for the Tsukuba, ETL and Wollongong sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar energy reaching a horizontal surface can possess fluctuations that impact electricity generation at a solar plant. Despite this, energy access remains inadequate, particularly in rural areas, with an estimated 82% deficiency. This drives us to assess the regressive and spatial-temporal accessibility of solar energy in the southern and mid regions of Mozambique. This evaluation aims to determine the actual availability of energy for electrification purposes. Data on global horizontal irradiation from approximately 8 stations across all provinces in the specified regions, collected between 2012 and 2014 at intervals of 1 and 10 min, were analyzed using regression and correlation methods along with a specialized algorithm for classifying days based on clear sky index terms. The statistical analysis identified days with significant potential for energy accessibility, exceeding 50% of the average. The findings suggest a correlation coefficient of approximately 0.30 for energy and non-linear regression with clear sky index coefficients around 0.80. The method employed demonstrated accuracy when compared to theoretical simulations of the clear sky index in the region, indicating its potential applicability in other regions of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Food insecurity is a state or condition in which people have limited or uncertain physical, social, and economic access to safe, sufficient, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs. Since no thorough evaluation was carried out to determine the degree of household food insecurity in Tigrayan communities in the aftermath of the conflict. This study aims to describe household-level food insecurity status among pregnant and lactating women during the post-armed conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia. Method: Descriptive research was designed to assess household food insecurity. A multi-stage sampling technique was used for this study. One thousand two hundred forty-nine households were selected systematically following a list of food insecure households. Descriptive statistical values, including frequency counts, percentages, minimum values, maximum values, and averages, were calculated to quantify the indicators under study. Household food insecurity and hunger Scale measurement using the standardized Food and Agriculture Organization standard. Results: The mean age (± SD) of the mothers was 28.35 ± 5.91 years. More than three fourth of the participants 1010(80.93%) were rural residents. The survey result showed that 88.8% of the pregnant and lactating were food insecure. Half (50.1%) of the households were hungry,one month before the study, 78.5% of the families expressed concern about running out of food and 6.4% had severe hunger. Conclusions: The food insecurity levels and hunger prestige of the study communities were excessively high. This is in the context of a region affected by intense armed conflict. It is commended that the study communities need to be safeguarded from the direct and long-term consequences of armed conflict-caused household food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land is the spatial background and basic carrier of human survival and development. The study of land function evaluation at different scales can promote the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. Taking Fuping County, Hebei Province, China, as an example, this study establishes the theoretical framework of county-level land scale division using a digital elevation model (DEM)-based watershed analysis method and establishes the theory and methodological system of land function evaluation from the perspective of the characteristic scale. The multifunctionality of the land was evaluated using the Carnegie–Ames–Stanford approach (CASA), the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) model and comprehensive index evaluation. By using the methods of DEM-based watershed analysis, dominant factor differentiation and layer superposition, a three-level scale system of 'subwatershed scale-land chain scale-land segment scale' and a multifunctional multiscale evaluation index system containing 18 evaluation indices were established. The single-function and multifunction evaluation results of land at different scales were obtained by the comprehensive index method and Getis-Ord Gi* index method. The accuracy of land function evaluation results mainly depends on the selection of the measurement scale. The land measurement scale determined by DEM-based watershed analysis is close to the intrinsic scale of land function evaluation. The scale effect of land function in different temporal and spatial ranges is also evident and shows obvious spatial heterogeneity and difference. At larger scales, individual functions show synergistic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to validate a broader conceptualization of ethical leadership and a matching measurement scale (BELS) using survey data from 909 public servants in leadership positions in the Netherlands. Design/methodology/approach: The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) (using AMOS) and exploratory factor analysis were carried out with repeated CFA. A social desirability scale was used to check for model fitness. Findings: Our findings support the notion that ethical leadership is broader in conceptualization and hence reject the theories that limit the role of ethical leaders within the confines of organizations. This study confirms that attributes like sustainability, leadership learning, ethical competency, diversity and resilience are part of ethical leadership. Such characteristics could not be measured with previous scales for ethical leadership. Also, ethical leadership is not separate from associated leadership styles. Research limitations/implications: A self-assessment scale for leaders was used for this study. Although there is no indication of social desirability bias, future research can also focus on follower assessments of their leaders. This study only focuses on the public sector context only. Practical implications: Our results suggest that ethical leadership contains more subvalues than in the seminal definition. This study has, therefore, corroborated a broader definition of ethical leadership. Originality/value: This study indicates the need for ethical leadership to be studied and assessed using a broader conceptualization and measurement scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper introduces a novel probability descriptor for genome sequence comparison, employing a generalized form of Jensen-Shannon divergence. This divergence metric stems from a one-parameter family, comprising fractions up to a maximum value of half. Utilizing this metric as a distance measure, a distance matrix is computed for the new probability descriptor, shaping Phylogenetic trees via the neighbor-joining method. Initial exploration involves setting the parameter at half for various species. Assessing the impact of parameter variation, trees drawn at different parameter values (half, one-fourth, one-eighth). However, measurement scales decrease with parameter value increments, with higher similarity accuracy corresponding to lower scale values. Ultimately, the highest accuracy aligns with the maximum parameter value of half. Comparative analyses against previous methods, evaluating via Symmetric Distance (SD) values and rationalized perception, consistently favor the present approach's results. Notably, outcomes at the maximum parameter value exhibit the most accuracy, validating the method's efficacy against earlier approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Symposium on Decadal Variability of the North Atlantic and its Marine Ecosystems: 2010–2019" took place in Bergen, Norway, from 20 to 22 May 2022. This event, hosted by the Institute of Marine Research, was jointly sponsored by ICES and NAFO and constitutes the fourth in a series of these symposia that started in 1991. The first symposium's aim was to review the hydrobiological variability in the decade of the 1980s, addressing the physical environment, plankton, invertebrates, and fish. Subsequent symposia maintained the classical structure, whilst a new theme session covering social sciences was added to the programme in the 2022 edition. Studies of climate impacts on marine ecosystems and living marine resources, including trends and regime shifts, emerged from increasingly longer ecosystem time series across the North Atlantic and subarctic regions. This symposium collection presents key findings discussed during the symposium. Whilst some progress has been made in advancing our ability to understand new trends and patterns of climate change and variability across physical, plankton, and fish communities, more work is needed to integrate these physical-ecological processes and scales with social science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with cerebral palsy (CP) may have different gross motor impairments which in sequence affecting their life occupations. The purpose of the study is to investigate the correlation between Gross Motor Function Measurement-66 (GMFM-66), the test of Bruininks-Oseretsky Motor Proficiency (BOTMP), and the Peabody Developmental Motor Scale–Second Edition (PDMS-2) in young children with CP. Methods: A correlational study was applied on 50 children aged from 4 to 6 years (30 girls, 20 boys) with spastic CP. Results: The Pearson correlation coefficient between the GMFM scale and PDMS-2 motor quotients, and its subscales (stationary, locomotion, and object control) and also between GMFM and BOTMP gross motor quotients and its subscales (strength, agility, and body coordination) were statistically significant. Spearman's coefficients between the grade of the Gross Motor Classification System (GMFCS) and the PDMS-2 Gross Motor Composite, BOTS-2, and its subscale results were also statistically significant. Conclusion: The three measurement scales, GMFM- 66, BOTS-2, and PDMS-2, are significantly related. Therefore, GMFCS is useful in predicting movement performance in children with CP and correlated with predictive guidance in treatment development. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06124352. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal involuntarymovements (AIMs) comprise a diverse group ofmovement disorders characterized by uncontrolled and unintended movements (e.g., tremors, tics, dystonia). AIMs can occur at any stage of life and pose significant challenges for clinicians. It is difficult to determine their underlying causes due to the complex neurobiological mechanisms involved. Therefore, it is crucial to quantify the severity and progression of AIMs using well-validated measurement scales, such as the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS). By employing reliable assessment approaches, clinicians can objectively evaluate the motoric manifestations of AIMs and track them over time. Treatment of AIMs varies depending on their nature and etiology. While AIMs often respond to treatment, serious side effects can undermine treatment efficacy. In this clinically focused narrative review, we categorize different types of AIMs and discuss their neurobiological aspects. Further, we emphasize the importance of using well-validated measurement scales for accurate assessment and discuss available treatment modalities that target the specific AIMs manifestations. Additionally, we cover the need for comprehensive care to address the multifaceted nature of AIMs, accounting for their physicalmanifestations as well as their psychological, social, and functional toll on patients. By embracing a multidisciplinary approach, health care professionals can provide patient-centered care that promotes overall well-being and enhances the lives of patients coping with AIMs. Regular follow-up assessments are necessary tomonitor treatment response, adjust medications when needed, and provide ongoing support for individuals affected by AIMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first definition of presenteeism was limited to individuals who attended work despite being unwell. Over the past 15 years, other perspectives have expanded the concept to encompass any non-work-related factors influencing behavior during working hours. This research aims to redefine presenteeism within the context of healthcare workers' behaviors and contribute to the literature by introducing a measurement scale. The study involved 431 healthcare professionals across nine public and four private/foundation hospitals. Presenteeism was associated positively with burnout and negatively with happiness at work. Younger people showed higher levels of presenteeism compared to their older counterparts, as did those who worked nine hours or more per day. Although the scale was applied to healthcare professionals, its framework holds potential for use in other areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the excellent accuracy, the optical lattice clock (OLC) has not only achieved impressive results in frequency measurement but also gradually plays an important role in quantum precision measurement. In this paper, we propose a scheme for measuring gravity at the sub-millimeter scale extracted from the Rabi spectrum based on Super-Bloch oscillations of atoms in the OLC. Our proposal can be realized on the existing OLC platform without significant change. Under realistic existing experimental parameters of 87 S r OLC, we determine the optimal experimental conditions and obtain a sensitivity of 5 μ Gal / Hz in the quantum projection noise limit, which is 50 times better than the previous method at the sub-millimeter scale under the same consideration. Another advantage of our proposal is that it is insensitive to the noise of the lattice laser, which contributes to the major uncertainty of the previous measurement (PRA 86, 033615). Our research will promote the development of OLC geoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is often taken for granted that social cohesion and volunteering are inextricably related. Previous research suggests both that social cohesion creates a conducive environment for volunteering to emerge and that volunteering itself facilitates feelings of social cohesion. Despite this, much of the existing evidence on this relationship is limited to cross-sectional research that precludes any assessment of potential causality. In this paper we present a secondary analysis of two large scale and longitudinal social surveys in the UK: the Understanding Society Household Longitudinal Study and the Beyond Us and Them project. Using data from these surveys we estimate a cross-lagged longitudinal model to assess the causal relationships between social cohesion and volunteering over time. Across both data sources, involving different time intervals, we find significant cross-lagged bi-directional relationships between social cohesion and volunteering. These findings provide much needed empirical support for the proposition that social cohesion and volunteering are causally related over periods of both months and years. Implications for theory and policy are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statistical analysis has a special relationship to measurement. For it, measurement and measurement theory not only provide the data on which analysis is based, but are also a source of important uncertainties in theoretical, methodological and applied research. A detailed presentation of measurement issues is therefore justified, together with the different approaches and the arguments behind them. After a careful discussion of the everyday and scientific meanings of measurement, the paper deals with the different meanings and conceptions of measurement, and then turn to the drastic change in meaning in social statistics in the mid-20th century. Then the theory of measurement scales, their criticism and proposals for expansion will be discussed, and finally some of the specific aspects of Likert-type statements that cannot be placed within the framework of measurement scales will be examined. One of the conclusions of the paper is that the Stevens system of measurement scales cannot be regarded as an adequate description of data types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The assessment of the normative values of sensory nerve action potentials (SNAP) and their diagnostic accuracies using validated neuropathy‐assessment tools to classify participants into groups with and without neuropathy was not previously described in the literature. Methods: The Utah Early Neuropathy Scale (UENS), Michigan neuropathy‐screening instrument, and nerve conduction data were collected prospectively. We described and compared the values of the sural, superficial peroneal sensory (SPS), and superficial radial SNAP amplitude in different age groups for three groups. Group 1 (G1)—control participants (UENS <5), group 2 (G2)—participants with diabetes without clinical diabetic neuropathy (UENS <5), and group 3 (G3)—participants with clinical diabetic neuropathy (UENS ≥5). We also described the diagnostic accuracy of single‐nerve amplitude and a combined sensory polyneuropathy index (CSPNI) that consists of four total points (one point for each of the following nerves if their amplitude was <25% lower limit of normal: right sural, left sural, right SPS, and left SPS potentials). Results: We assessed 135 participants, including 41, 37, and 57 participants in G1, G2, and G3, respectively, with age median (interquartile ranges) of 51 (45–56), 47 (38–56), and 54 (51–61) years, respectively, whereas 19 (46.3%), 18 (48.7%), and 32 (56.14%) of them were males, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) scores were 68.4%, 92.3%, 86.7%, and 80% for the sural amplitude; 86%, 58.3%, 62%, and 84% for the SPS amplitude; 66.7%, 94.4%, 90.5%, and 78.2% for the CSPNI of 3; and 54.4%, 98.6%, 96.9%, and 73.2% for the CSPNI of 4, respectively. Conclusion: Sural nerve had a high specificity for neuropathy; however, the CSPNI had the highest specificity and PPV, whereas the SPS had the highest sensitivity and NPV. We described the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values of sensory nerve action potentials. We used a validated neuropathy scales to classify our participants into neuropathy and no neuropathy groups. These diagnostic accuracies were not reported in the previous literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statistical analysis is often used to evaluate the strength of evidence for or against scientific hypotheses. Here we consider evidence measurement from the point of view of representational measurement theory, focusing in particular on the 0-points of measurement scales. We argue that a properly calibrated evidence measure will need to count up from absolute 0, in a sense to be defined, and that this 0-point is likely to be something other than what one might have expected. This suggests the need for a new theory of statistical evidence in the context of which calibrated evidence measurement becomes tractable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While destinations are increasingly tried to attract tourists, changing times call for developing a measurement scale for place attachment. In this regard, the current study adopts a secure attachment theory perspective and develops a robust formative measurement scale for place attachment composed of place identity and dependence, cultural bonding, climate and nature, personal relationships and safety and security. Two domestic destinations (Kerala and Tamil Nadu) in the country (India) and one international destination (the Middle East) were employed to validate the factor structure of place attachment. Using online survey, the study obtained the perceptual responses and were analysed using ADANCO 2.2. Findings suggest place attachment as a higher-order formative construct that significantly enhances willingness to recommend and revisit intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using cross‐sectional data from N = 4274 young adults across 16 countries during the COVID‐19 pandemic, we examined the cross‐cultural measurement invariance of the perceived vulnerability to disease (PVD) scale and tested the hypothesis that the association between PVD and fear of COVID‐19 is stronger under high disease threat [that is, absence of COVID‐19 vaccination, living in a country with lower Human Development Index (HDI) or higher COVID‐19 mortality]. Results supported a bi‐factor Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling model where items loaded on a global PVD factor, and on the sub‐factors of Perceived Infectability and Germ Aversion. However, cross‐national invariance could only be obtained on the configural level with a reduced version of the PVD scale (PVD‐r), suggesting that the concept of PVD may vary across nations. Moreover, higher PVD‐r was consistently associated with greater fear of COVID‐19 across all levels of disease threat, but this association was especially pronounced among individuals with a COVID‐19 vaccine, and in contexts where COVID‐19 mortality was high. The present research brought clarity into the dimensionality of the PVD measure, discussed its suitability and limitations for cross‐cultural research, and highlighted the pandemic‐related conditions under which higher PVD is most likely to go along with psychologically maladaptive outcomes, such as fear of COVID‐19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces Multi-dimensional Disparity Index (MDI) to measure multi-form of disparity in different level of governments referencing Nepal. The measurement scale of MDI was developed by adopting Santos and Alkire's (2011) approaches. A wide range of thematic experts was consulted, employing the Semi-Delphi approach to determine its dimensions and indicators. The MDI in this study includes six dimensions and 34 indicators composited with dimension-wise indices like Economy Disparity Index [ECODI], Educational Disparity Index [EDUDI], Health Disparity Index [HDI], Geography and Climatic Vulnerability Index [GCVI], Living Standard Disparity Index [LSDI], and Demography Disparity Index [DDI]. Overall, the study revealed the extent of multi-dimensional disparity across three tiers of government in Nepal. More specifically, Nepal scored 0.388 MDI value. Karnali and Bagmati provinces are accounted as the highest and least deprived. This study contributes essential knowledge, particularly in exploring the dimensions and their indicators and develops an approach to measure multi-dimensional disparities. Most existing approaches for assessing disparities are mono-dimensional and measure the disparities in a single aspect. In this context, MDI provides a broader approach to consider multiple dimensions and measures multiple aspects in a country like Nepal, where disparity manifests at multiple levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research, drawing on the Signaling Theory, proposes a mediation model, focusing on threefold: (i) the direct relationship between brand innovativeness and brand trust, (ii) the mediating effect of MBE, and (iii) a comprehensive measurement of MBE. As a result, brand innovativeness shows no direct influence on brand trust. However, it is found that such a relationship is fully mediated by MBE, which stresses the importance of this mechanism. The study contributes to extant knowledge with a deeper understanding of how brand innovativeness affects brand trust in consideration of the mediating role of MBE in the mobile booking context. Also, the validation of the MBE measurement scale with six dimensions provides valuable insights into the literature of experiential conceptualization. Accordingly, several managerial implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart cities have started to become widespread with the development of today's technology. Smart cities are basically smart economy, smart environment, smart governance, smart transportation, smart people and smart life components. In the absence of one of the basic components, it is not possible to talk about smart cities. The successful implementation of smart cities also depends on the approaches of the city dwellers towards smart city applications. Studies on smart cities in the literature mainly reveal the applications of smart cities selected as samples. This study, on the other hand, aims to develop a social scale based on the approaches of urban residents towards smart city applications. A 5-point Likert-type questionnaire was obtained by creating an item pool for each of the smart city components (factors). In the study, analyzes were made with the data obtained from a total of 844 people residing in the Çankaya district of Ankara, over the age of 18 and using a smart phone. Analysis findings: It has been shown that the scale is a measurement tool with 26 items and 6 factors with structural validity and reliability. It is expected that the number of items eliminated in scale development studies is nearly half of all items. As a result, it has been found that the scale of smart city applications is perfectly reliable, the smart transportation factor is very reliable, the smart human factor, smart life factor, smart economy factor, smart environment factor is good, and the smart governance factor is generally accepted as reliable measurement tools. According to the item analyzes made with the factors, it was seen that there was no need to exclude any item from the scale in terms of reliability and the item-total correlations were above 0.7. When the scale items were examined, it was understood that all of them had statistically significant coefficients and were of sufficient size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Country differences in response styles (RS) may jeopardize cross‐country comparability of Likert‐type scales. When adjusting for rather than investigating RS is the primary goal, it seems advantageous to impose minimal assumptions on RS structures and leverage information from multiple scales for RS measurement. Using PISA 2015 background questionnaire data, we investigate such an adjustment procedure and explore its impact on cross‐country comparisons in contrast to customary analyses and RS adjustments that (a) leave RS unconsidered, (b) incorporate stronger assumptions on RS structure, and/or (c) only use some selected scales for RS measurement. Our findings suggest that not only the decision as to whether to adjust for RS but also how to adjust may heavily impact cross‐country comparisons. This concerns both the assumptions on RS structures and the scales employed for RS measurement. Implications for RS adjustments in cross‐country comparisons are derived, strongly advocating for taking model uncertainty into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to validate the psychometric properties of the Self-Perceived Employability Scale in the context of the United Arab Emirates (UAE-SPE) and to verify the model fit of the UAE-SPE and University Commitment Scale (UC) (Rothwell et al., 2008) for undergraduate students. Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional survey study was carried out to collect the data using a web-based survey tool (Qualtrics) at a public university in the UAE. The sample was 646 undergraduate students. Findings: As a result of the factor analysis, the study validated three factors of SPE for undergraduate students in the UAE that explain their perceptions of their university reputation, their field of study, the state of the UAE labour market and confidence in their skills. Confirmatory factor analysis verified good model fit indices of UAE-SPE and the UC scale. In addition, the study found a statistically significant positive relationship between the UC scale and the three factors of UAE-SPE. Originality/value: Currently, there is a scarcity of published research on self-perceived employability amongst undergraduate students in higher education institutions in the UAE and the Arab region. This article not only contributes to research on this topic but also validates two scales, allowing cross-cultural comparisons of SPE and UC of undergraduate students in the Arab region and worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After eradicating absolute poverty under the current rural poverty standard (living standard of 2300 RMB per person per year at 2010 constant prices) in 2020, China will enter the post-poverty era, in which the focus of anti-poverty in China will shift to narrowing the gap and pursuing fairness and shared prosperity in relative poverty. Identifying and measuring the scale of the relative poverty group is an essential prerequisite for effective relative poverty management. Based on the reality of China's extensive territory and unbalanced and uncoordinated regional development, this article calculates the relative poverty and the scale of the poor population in each province separately from the provincial perspective and analyzes their changing trends. It is revealed that the average relative poverty line of each province in China is slightly lower than the social poverty line of middle and high-income countries proposed by the World Bank and higher than the low- and middle-income countries, which is basically in line with the current stage of economic development in China. The average relative poverty incidence in each province is at around 25%, and the incidence of poverty generally shows a decreasing trend during the study period, while the depth and intensity of poverty in some provinces show a gradual increase over time, further confirming the enormity of relative poverty governance in the post-poverty era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecologists routinely use statistical models to detect and explain interactions among ecological drivers, with a goal to evaluate whether an effect of interest changes in sign or magnitude in different contexts. Two fundamental properties of interactions are often overlooked during the process of hypothesising, visualising and interpreting interactions between drivers: the measurement scale – whether a response is analysed on an additive or multiplicative scale, such as a ratio or logarithmic scale; and the symmetry – whether dependencies are considered in both directions. Overlooking these properties can lead to one or more of three inferential errors: misinterpretation of (i) the detection and magnitude (Type‐D error), and (ii) the sign of effect modification (Type‐S error); and (iii) misidentification of the underlying processes (Type‐A error). We illustrate each of these errors with a broad range of ecological questions applied to empirical and simulated data sets. We demonstrate how meta‐analysis, a widely used approach that seeks explicitly to characterise context dependence, is especially prone to all three errors. Based on these insights, we propose guidelines to improve hypothesis generation, testing, visualisation and interpretation of interactions in ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the bidirectional transmittance distribution function (BTDF) of diffusely transmitting materials, two new primary facilities have been developed at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and Aalto University (Aalto). A detailed description of both facilities and the different approaches used are presented in this paper. The performance of both facilities is compared by determining the BTDF of two different diffuser types in both in-plane and out-of-plane bidirectional geometries at four different wavelengths in the visible spectral range. Due to delayed completion of PTB's primary facility, the measured BTDF values are compared between Aalto's primary facility and another PTB setup, whose measurement scales are successfully transferred to PTB's primary facility by an internal comparison. A thorough analysis of the measurement uncertainty is presented, leading to a combined k = 1 standard uncertainty of 0.8%–1.2% for PTB's primary facility and 1.3%–1.7% for Aalto's primary facility. The BTDF results obtained agree well within their expanded k = 2 uncertainty. This indirect bilateral comparison shows that Aalto's and PTB's new facilities are suited as primary reference setups for the determination of the BTDF. These studies also reveal action points to improved measurement capabilities and for a reduction of the measurement uncertainty, depending on the type of diffuser under test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The motivations of viewers of live game streaming (LGS) should be distinguished from those of viewers of esports events and studied with a novel approach reflecting the current media consumption paradigm. The current study used an exploratory approach to identify the viewership motivations of LGS via over-the-top (OTT) apps. First, the downloaders' data from an LGS app (i.e., Twitch in this study) were reviewed and analyzed with a word-clustering technique. The results were clustered into three attributes, the streamer-oriented, app function-oriented, and entertainment attributes. Second, we developed a survey questionnaire based on the literature and the results of the first stage. Third, we tested the measurement scale after a pilot test. Finally, we statistically validated the measurement scale. The study findings may provide extended theoretical implications for future LGS research. Also, the findings can be used to assess how viewers perceive the streamers and the platforms as an evaluation guideline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Religious character is a positively measured moral value based on a permanent educational process, to help create an ethical framework and act as a socialization agent. This helps in building positive values such as love, empathy, respect, and harmony. Therefore, this study aims to determine a theoretical religious character construction model, for the development of a measurement scale. A quantitative approach was used by empirically testing the hypothetical factors of this theoretical character. A total of 320 respondents were also utilized as the population, with data measurement using the Aiken's-V formula, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The results showed that (1) The theoretical construction model for religious character was determined by 6 indicators, namely intellect, belief, commitment, ritual, experience, and consequence, which were subsequently identified as moral knowledge, feelings, and actions, (2) The theoretical construction of this variable was declared fit due to meeting the eligibility criteria for the goodness-of-fit model on the AFI (absolute fit indices), IFI (incremental fit indices), PFI (parsimony fit indices), and critical-N. This construction had a reliability of 0.95, confirming that the model was fit for utilization, based on the compilation of a scale to measure students' religious character. These analytical results also helped in developing a religious character learning model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on optimizing the propulsion system, specifically the control aspect. It presents the design of a sensorless inverter with field-oriented control for BLDC motors, primarily intended for copters. The theoretical part covers motor modeling and the design of the control structure, employing field-oriented control and a sensorless approach using back-electromotive force observer to estimate the rotor position. The physical implementation of the control system is based on an electronic inverter with two logical components. The control component utilizes a microprocessor for FOC control and incorporates memory, sensor systems, and peripherals. The power component ensures controlled energy transfer through complementary signals and feedback measurement. Communication between components and with the higher-level system, regarding control and configuration, is also addressed. Finally, the inverter underwent testing on a measurement platform and during copter flights. The measurements focused on motor speed estimation and control performance under load and no-load conditions. The assessment concludes with trust scaling and temperature measurements of the inverter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of publications to evaluate the analgesic efficacy and safety of percutaneous splanchnic nerve neurolysis (SNN) for cancer-related pain. Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Ichushi-Web for English or Japanese articles published up to July 2022 and reporting patients who underwent percutaneous SNN for cancer-related pain. The outcome measures assessed in the systematic review and meta-analysis were the pain measurement scales and morphine equivalents daily dose (MEDD) before and after the intervention and the rate of complications. Results: Pooled pain measurement scores at pre-intervention, 1–2 weeks, and at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months post-intervention were 6.65 (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.77–7.67, I2 = 97%), 2.79 (95% CI, 2.00–3.88, I2 = 88%), 2.82 (95% CI, 2.49–3.20, I2 = 55%), 2.86 (95% CI, 2.64–3.10, I2 = 0%), 2.99 (95% CI, 2.56–3.46, I2 = 82%), and 3.09 (95% CI, 1.44–6.65, I2 = 70%), respectively. Mean MEDD was described in 8 of the 11 included articles. In all 8 articles, MEDD decreased up to 3 months post-intervention. The pooled minor complication rates for diarrhea and hypotension were 28% (95% CI, 13–49%, I2 = 85%) and 31% (95% CI, 16–51%, I2 = 80%), respectively. The pooled major complication rate was 2% (95% CI, 1–2%, I2 = 0%). Conclusions: Analysis indicates that percutaneous SNN for cancer-related pain can be performed safely with sustained reduction of pain measurement scales while reducing the administration of opioids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study involved a systematic and evaluative review of school climate measures to catalog main domains and subdomains and rate parameters of instrument presentation and psychometric quality. Four databases were used (Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC, and PsycINFO) and 37 instruments (studies) met inclusion criteria (instrument measured school climate; psychometric properties of the instrument were provided; every instrument included in the review has its original version published; the article was in English or Spanish; the article was a peer‐reviewed publication). Information was synthesized according to instrument presentation and psychometric quality. The expansion of literature search routes was designed to mitigate publication bias. Analysis revealed four main domains among extant school climate measures: relationships (social relationships, school connectedness, leadership, and culture), environment (school facilities, physical comfort, and cleanliness), safety/discipline (school safety, fairness of rules, bullying and aggression, disciplinary harshness, and general drug use), and academic (academic outcomes, equality of opportunity, engagement, and cohesiveness/competitiveness). This domain/subdomain architecture could serve as a touchstone for conceptualizing school climate and developing and refining future assessment devices for this construct. The domain/subdomain architecture could also help guide school reform efforts. Limitations included possible publication bias and an exclusive focus on questionnaires and not other methods to assess school climate. PRACTITIONERS POINTS: Four main domains are generally represented among the 37 studies of school climate measures reviewed: relationships, environment, safety/discipline, and academics.Acceptable psychometric properties are reported by the most of the reviewed school climate measures.Future research on school climate instruments should emphasize more longitudinal analyses and verify the psychometric properties through subsequent studies in diverse samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stevens's classification of scales into nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio types is among the most controversial yet resilient ideas in psychological and educational measurement. In this essay, I challenge the notion that scale type is essential for the development of measures in these fields. I highlight how the concept of scale type, and of interval-level measurement in particular, is variously interpreted by many researchers. These (often unstated) differences in perspectives lead to confusion about what evidence is appropriate to demonstrate interval-level measurement, as well as the implications of scale type for research in practice. I then borrow from contemporary ideas in the philosophy of measurement to demonstrate that scale type can only be established in the context of well-developed theory and through experimentation. I conclude that current notions of scale type are of limited use, and that scale type ought to occupy a lesser role in psychometric discourse and pedagogy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interpretation of cosmic antiproton flux measurements from space-borne experiments is currently limited by the knowledge of the antiproton production cross-section in collisions between primary cosmic rays and the interstellar medium. Using collisions of protons with an energy of 6.5 Te V incident on helium nuclei at rest in the proximity of the interaction region of the LHCb experiment, the ratio of antiprotons originating from antihyperon decays to prompt production is measured for antiproton momenta between 12 and 110 Ge V\!/ c . The dominant antihyperon contribution, namely Λ ¯ → p ¯ π + decays from promptly produced Λ ¯ particles, is also exclusively measured. The results complement the measurement of prompt antiproton production obtained from the same data sample. At the energy scale of this measurement, the antihyperon contributions to antiproton production are observed to be significantly larger than predictions of commonly used hadronic production models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Baryonic Acoustic Oscillations (BAOs) studies based on the clustering of voids and matter tracers provide important constraints on cosmological parameters related to the expansion of the Universe. However, modelling the void exclusion effect is an important challenge for fully exploiting the potential of this kind of analyses. We thus develop two numerical methods to describe the clustering of cosmic voids. Neither model requires additional cosmological information beyond that assumed within the galaxy de-wiggled model. The models consist in power spectra whose performance we assess in comparison to a parabolic model on Patchy cubic and light-cone mocks. Moreover, we test their robustness against systematic effects and the reconstruction technique. The void model power spectra and the parabolic model with a fixed parameter provide strongly correlated values for the Alcock-Paczynski (α) parameter, for boxes and light-cones likewise. The resulting α values – for all three models – are unbiased and their uncertainties are correctly estimated. However, the numerical models show less variation with the fitting range compared to the parabolic one. The Bayesian evidence suggests that the numerical techniques are often favoured compared to the parabolic model. Moreover, the void model power spectra computed on boxes can describe the void clustering from light-cones as well as from boxes. The same void model power spectra can be used for the study of pre- and post-reconstructed data-sets. Lastly, the two numerical techniques are resilient against the studied systematic effects. Consequently, using either of the two new void models, one can more robustly measure cosmological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS) is a valid and reliable tool to assess static and dynamic trunk control in cerebral palsy. However, there is no evidence informing about differences between novice and expert raters. A cross-sectional study was conducted with participants between the ages of 6 and 18 years with a CP diagnosis. The TCMS Spanish version (TCMS-S) was administered in-person by an expert rater, and video recordings were taken for later scoring by the expert and three other raters with varying levels of clinical experience. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate reliability between raters for the total and subscales of the TCMS-S scores. Standard Error of Measurement (SEM) and Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) were also calculated. There was a high level of agreement between expert raters (ICC ≥ 0.93), while novice raters demonstrated good agreement (ICC > 0.72). Additionally, it was observed that novice raters had a slightly higher SEM and MDC than expert raters. The Selective Movement Control subscale exhibited slightly higher SEM and MDC values compared to the TCMS-S total and other subscales, irrespective of the rater's level of expertise. Overall, the study showed that the TCMS-S is a reliable tool for evaluating trunk control in the Spanish pediatric population with cerebral palsy, regardless of the rater's experience level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arctic regions are highly impacted by the global temperature rising and its consequences and influences on the thermo-hydro processes and their feedbacks. Theses processes are especially not very well understood in the context of river–permafrost interactions and permafrost degradation. This paper focuses on the thermal characterization of a river–valley system in a continuous permafrost area (Syrdakh, Yakutia, Eastern Siberia) that is subject to intense thawing, with major consequences on water resources and quality. We investigated this Yakutian area through two transects crossing the river using classical tools such as in–situ temperature measurements, direct active layer thickness estimations, unscrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery, heat transfer numerical experiments, Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT). Of these two transects, one was closely investigated with a long-term temperature time series from 2012 to 2018, while both of them were surveyed by geophysical and UAV data acquisition in 2017 and 2018. Thermodynamical numerical simulations were run based on the long-term temperature series and are in agreement with river thermal influence on permafrost and active layer extensions retrieved from GPR and ERT profiles. An electrical resistivity-temperature relationship highlights the predominant role of water in such a complicated system and paves the way to coupled thermo-hydro-geophysical modeling for understanding permafrost–river system evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we analyze the internal structure of the scale for experience in exercising the right to health care (EERHC), based on the focus from the World Health Organization (WHO) on the right to health care, from the perspective of international migrants, in Chile. The methodology was an instrumental study (n = 563) conducted to analyze the psychometric properties of the EERHC scale. Its reliability and internal consistency were evaluated, while the exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) model and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to identify the structure of relationships between the variables measured. The item–dimension correlations obtained present levels of r ≥ 0.3, and the Cronbach's α and McDonald's ω presented ranges >0.9, considered to be acceptable on all models. Results: the model was selected for presenting a good fit index χ2 = 24,850, df = 300, p = 0.000; RMSEA = 0.07; CFI = 0.97; TLI = 0.95; and SRMR = 0.03. The evidence obtained lets us conclude that the scale has forty-five items and four dimensions. The findings demonstrate a good internal structure and are useful to measure primary health care service utilization based on the framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: High‐intensity parallel beam ultrasound (US) is a novel device equipped with Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) technology applied in anti‐aging treatment. The system is aimed at pathways stimulating neocollagenesis and neoelastinogenesis in the dermis leading to skin tightening and rejuvenation. Aims: Evaluate the efficacy and safety of the high‐intensity parallel beam US device at the depth of 1.5 mm for skin tightening treatment. Methods: Thirty‐six participants were enrolled in the study. Digital photographs and Antera 3D photographs were taken at baseline, 1 and 3 months post‐treatment. The depression volume of nasolabial folds (NLFs) and marionette lines (MLs) in each visit was evaluated using Antera 3D imaging program. Pain was evaluated by pain measurement scales immediately after treatment. Any procedure related side effects were documented and examined. Results: Post‐treatment results were compared to the baseline; statistically significant mean depression volume (MDV) change of NLFs and MLs were found at 1 and 3 months post‐treatment. No significant MDV change from 1 to 3 months post‐treatment could be demonstrated. The mean pain score was 6.64 on a 0–10 scale. No adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that the novel high‐intensity parallel beam US device is clinically safe and effective for skin tightening in the lower face area. We noticed a reduction in NLFs and MLs in more than 60% of our participants already as early as 1 month post‐treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of mental health problems in adolescents has been identified as a global concern. Early screening and identification can offer benefits in terms of primary prevention and reduced healthcare costs. This study aimed to develop a tool to assess the risk of developing mental health problems in adolescents. Methods: The study followed an exploratory sequential design and was divided into five phases. The Multidimensional Psychosocial Risk Screen (MPRS) is a newly developed self-report measure. The various steps in its development and validation have been elaborated. The MPRS was evaluated with a sample of 934 adolescents aged 12-18, spread across the 8th-12th grade. Results: Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed a robust factor structure. The extracted five factors were named as Parent–Child Relationship (PCR), Self-Concept (SC), Teacher–Student Dynamics (TSD), Social Media Use (SMU), and Peer Interaction (PI). The reliability of the subscales ranged from 0.60 to 0.80. The overall reliability of the scale was good (a = 0.87). Convergent validity of the scale was established using standard measures of risk factors and emotional and behavioural problems. Conclusions: The MPRS can be considered an effective tool with an adequate factor structure and good psychometric properties. It can be beneficial in the early detection of vulnerabilities to mental health problems in adolescents and, therefore, seen as a key element in primary prevention and fostering individualized interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comparability of the scores obtained in different forms of a test is certainly an essential requirement. This paper proposes a statistical test for the detection of noncomparable scores based on item response theory (IRT) methods. When the IRT model is fit separately for different forms of a test, the item parameter estimates are expressed on different measurement scales. The first step to obtain comparable scores is to convert the item parameters to a common metric using two constants, called equating coefficients. The equating coefficients can be estimated for two forms with common items, or derived through a chain of forms. The proposal of this paper is a statistical test to verify whether the scale conversions provided by the equating coefficients are as expected when the assumptions of the model are satisfied, hence leading to comparable scores. The method is illustrated through simulation studies and a real‐data example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present project utilized a Learning Collaborative (LC) to disseminate the Behavioral Health Home Plus (BHHP) physical-behavioral health integration model to providers serving two behavioral health populations at risk for adverse health conditions: youth psychiatric residential treatment facilities (five sites) and adult opioid treatment providers (seven sites). Following the positive results of a randomized controlled trial utilizing an LC to implement two behavioral health home models in community mental health provider organizations serving adults with serious mental illness, Community Care Behavioral Health Organization facilitated integration of the models to scale health and wellness supports to additional behavioral health care delivery settings. This paper presents provider results focused on BHHP implementation training, LC implementation, physical health and wellness promotion within sites, and BHHP model sustainment plans. Provider self-reported data indicate that the LC approach is a successful tool for integrating and sustaining BHHP model components in routine care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CNESCO recently put forward a study regarding the correlation between the quality of the school experience and the quality of the learning showing the importance of student well-being. The pedagogical well-being, (defined as the adjustment of the student accompaniment to their psychoaffective needs, improves the quality of the school experience, allows the personal development and yields happiness from being at school (De la Garanderie, 2013). Our action research, in a shared view of well-being was focused on the student's working comfort in Cycle 3, with the establishment of an experimental device whose objective was to take care of children, while supporting their teachers in this approach with accompaniment. A charter of pedagogical welfare (Loton, 2020), from the medical world, and translated into professional teaching practices suitable to the needs of each one, has allowed the implementation of a pedagogical accompaniment practice in regards to well-being. The collection of school experiences has been done by using a tool created specifically to measure the quality of experience of children: a Scale of Measurement of School Experiences (Habib et Bidal, 2016), has led to results that reveal an increase in personal development and validates the capacity of the welfare system put in place to produce educational well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Version (SAS-SV) has been widely used in research, but little is known about the measurement invariance across gender. The current study measured SAS-SV invariance between male and female college students in a sample of 1112 participants. Single- and multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) of smartphone addiction symptom ratings were conducted using R program with RStudio. SAS-SV was psychometrically robust in measuring the severity of smartphone addiction among college students, as well as the gender-based invariance. The differences in SAS-SV between male and female participants were likely to represent true gender differences, and meaningful comparisons could be made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is the reality of the misophonic experience in the general population? This is a study on misophonia in a large sample, representative of the UK general population. The study utilises a multidimensional psychometric tool, the S-Five, to study the intensity of the triggering misophonic sounds in everyday activities, the emotions/feelings related to them, and the norms of the key components of the misophonic experience: internalising and externalising appraisals, perceived threat and avoidance behaviours, outbursts, and the impact on functioning. Based on the S-Five scores and a semi-structured interview delivered by clinicians who specialise in misophonia, the estimated prevalence of people for whom symptoms of misophonia cause a significant burden in their life in the UK was estimated to be 18%. The psychometric properties of the S-Five in the UK general population were also evaluated and differences across gender and age were explored. Our results show that the five-factor structure is reproduced, and that the S-Five is a reliable and valid scale for the measurement of the severity of the misophonic experience in the general UK population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to develop a measurement scale of the public sector's ability to adopt Lean. The study focuses on the exploring phase of the Churchill paradigm. The scale measurement is constructed from the treatment of data from the survey carried out on a sample of 430 employees of administrations and territorial communities in Morocco. The exploratory research highlight five dimensions that might be used to assess the public services' ability to implement the Lean approach. The five dimensions of the construct are: Leadership and team spirit, customer orientation, communication, employee training and continuous improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smartphones and tablets generate familiar challenges to be effectively managed in order to live together properly. The influence of both devices on routines and habits in families is described in this article, analyzing whether there are regulations in place to manage their use and determining the presence of significant differences according to the independent variables analyzed. A cross-sectional quantitative design is developed with a sample of 1,082 subjects from all over Spain. Two measurement scales have been applied relating to routines and habits and to family regulations regarding the use of smartphones and tablets. The results indicate the low impact of devices on intra-family routines and habits, as well as the existence of rules regulating their use in the home, mainly when there are minors and the adults are over 35 years old. It seems that families are aware of the need to regulate the impact of these devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Value co-creation has emerged as an important competitive strategy leading to value innovation. In tourist destinations co-creation results from the participation of multiple actors synchronously and contextually in value realization. Yet value co-creation remains highly theoretical and lacks empirical operationalization, especially in destination contexts. Are tourism destinations able and sufficiently mobilized to exploit the potential offered by co-creation theory? This paper operationalizes two fundamental dimensions of the value co-creation process, collaboration and learning, by developing and testing a measurement scale to evaluate the perceived impact of these dimensions on the market performance of actors at a tourist destination. Contributions to the literature on value co-creation and learning as well as managerial implications are discussed and suggestions for further research are made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social skills help individual to interact and perform effectively in a given social context and is associated with educational accomplishment, psychological adaptation, coping abilities, and employment. In lieu of the growing importance of social skill in every aspect of individual's life, it was felt imminent to evolve a scale for general population. Development and validation of the social skill scale are labelled under three levels—Phase I—writing of items and content validation, Phase II—factor analysis, Phase III—testing reliability and validity. An exploratory factor analysis with oblique rotation of the intercorrelations of the 23 items resulted in a 5-factor solution: leadership skill, team integration skill, affiliative skill, interpersonal skill, and social engagement skill. The present study will be an applied research with the objectives of developing an instrument of social skills, which can help in assessment process, used for intervention purposes targeting a definite population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]