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Purpose: This study implemented 18-week individual-specific sprint acceleration training interventions in elite male rugby backs based on their predetermined individual technical needs and evaluated the effectiveness of these interventions. Methods: Individual-specific interventions were prescribed to 5 elite rugby backs over an 18-week period. Interventions were informed by the relationships between individual technique strategies and initial acceleration performance, and their strength-based capabilities. Individual-specific changes in technique and initial acceleration performance were measured at multiple time points across the intervention period and compared with 3 control participants who underwent their normal training. Results: Of the technique variables intentionally targeted during the intervention period, moderate to very large (|d| = 0.93–3.99) meaningful changes were observed in the participants who received an individual-specific intervention but not in control participants. Resultant changes to the intervention participants' whole-body kinematic strategies were broadly consistent with the intended changes. Moderate to very large (|d| = 1.11–2.82) improvements in initial acceleration performance were observed in participants receiving individual-specific technical interventions but not in the control participants or the participant who received an individual-specific strength intervention. Conclusions: Individual-specific technical interventions were more effective in manipulating aspects of acceleration technique and performance compared with the traditional "one-size-fits-all" approach adopted by the control participants. This study provides a novel, evidence-based approach for applied practitioners working to individualize sprint-based practices to enhance acceleration performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study sought to quantify the within-individual relationships between spatiotemporal variables and initial acceleration sprint performance in elite rugby backs and to establish a normative data set of relevant strength-based measures. Methods: First, the spatiotemporal variables, ratios of step length to step rate and of contact time to flight time, and initial acceleration performance were obtained from 35 elite male rugby backs (mean [SD] age 25 [3] y) over the first 4 steps of 3 sprints. Angular and linear kinematic aspects of technique and strength-based qualities were collected from 25 of these participants. Second, the same spatiotemporal variables were collected from 19 of the participants on 3 further occasions (12 trials in total) to determine the within-individual associations of these variables and initial acceleration performance. Results: Moderate to very large meaningful within-individual relationships (|r| =.43–.88) were found between spatiotemporal variables and initial acceleration performance in 17 of the 19 participants. From these relationships, a theoretically "desirable" change in whole-body kinematic strategy was individually determined for each participant, and normative strength-based measures to contextualize these were established. Conclusions: Meaningful within-individual relationships are evident between sprint spatiotemporal variables and initial acceleration performance in elite rugby backs. Individualized approaches are therefore necessary to understand how aspects of technique relate to initial acceleration performance. This study provides an objective, evidence-based approach for applied practitioners to identify the initial acceleration technical needs of individual rugby backs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of origami in engineering has significantly expanded in recent years, spanning deployable structures across scales, folding robotics and mechanical metamaterials. However, finding foldable paths can be a formidable task as the kinematics are determined by a nonlinear system of equations, often with several degrees of freedom. In this article, we leverage a Lagrangian approach to derive reduced-order compatibility conditions for rigid-facet origami vertices with reflection and rotational symmetries. Then, using the reduced-order conditions, we derive exact, multi-degree of freedom solutions for degree 6 and degree 8 vertices with prescribed symmetries. The exact kinematic solutions allow us to efficiently investigate the topology of allowable kinematics, including the consideration of a self-contact constraint, and then visually interpret the role of geometric design parameters on these admissible fold paths by monitoring the change in the kinematic topology. We then introduce a procedure to construct lower-symmetry kinematic solutions by breaking symmetry of higher-order kinematic solutions in a systematic way that preserves compatibility. The multi-degree of freedom solutions discovered here should assist with building intuition of the kinematic feasibility of higher-degree origami vertices and also facilitate the development of new algorithmic procedures for origami-engineering design. This article is part of the theme issue 'Origami/Kirigami-inspired structures: from fundamentals to applications'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that choices about how to configure stepping-stones to be used as playground or exercise equipment reflect a person's action capabilities. In two experiments, we investigated whether choices about how to configure stepping-stones to be used as a path for locomotion additionally reflect the goals for which or the constraints under which the path is to be used. In Experiment 1, participants created stepping-stone configurations (with rubber mats) that would allow them to cross a given space quickly, comfortably, or carefully. Configurations in the "Quickly" condition consisted of fewer mats, and longer mean (linear) distances between mats, and greater "challenge" (relative to maximum stepping distance) than in the other two conditions. In Experiment 2, participants created stepping-stone configurations that would be fun to use or that would be easy to use to cross a given space. Configurations in the "Fun" condition consisted of more mats, longer linear distances between mats, and greater "challenge" than those in the "Easy" condition. Moreover, paths in the "Fun" condition were also wider, longer, and exhibited larger changes in distances and angles between consecutive mats than in the "Easy" condition. The results are discussed both in terms of implications for understanding affordances and for the design of stepping-stone paths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenology—the timing of critical stages of growth and reproduction and the transitions between them—determines environmental conditions and biotic interactions. Hence, phenology is a key functional trait influencing organisms' survival and fitness; however, the role of phenology in community assembly processes has been less considered. Here we review the importance of phenology in environmental and biotic filtering, structuring priority effects, and species coexistence in the context of the assembly of native communities, as well as in invasions and restoration. We highlight the complexity of the life-history aspect of phenology, which makes simple trade-offs—such as between growth timing and competitive ability—part of larger plant strategies shaped by a framework of risk, reward, and investment over multiple timescales. Embracing this complexity could yield insights into how phenology shapes communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We employ the theory of asymptotic homogenization (AH) to study the elasto‐plastic behavior of a composite medium comprising two solid phases, separated by a sharp interface and characterized by mechanical properties, such as elastic coefficients and “initial yield stresses” (i.e., a threshold stress above which remodeling is triggered), that may differ up to several orders of magnitude. We speak of “plastic” behavior because we have in mind a material behavior that, to a certain extent, resembles plasticity, although, for biological systems, it embraces a much wider class of inelastic phenomena. In particular, we are interested in studying the influence of gradient effects in the remodeling variable on the homogenized mechanical properties of the composite. The jump of the mechanical properties from one phase to the other makes the composite highly heterogeneous and calls for the determination of effective properties, that is, properties that are associated with a homogenized “version” of the original composite, and that are obtained through a suitable averaging procedure. The determination of the effective properties results convenient, in particular, when it comes to the multiscale description of inelastic processes, such as remodeling in soft or hard tissues, like bones. To accomplish this task with the aid of AH, we assume that the length scale over which the heterogeneities manifest themselves is several orders of magnitude smaller than the characteristic length scale of the composite as a whole. We identify both a fine‐scale problem and a coarse‐scale problem, each of which characterizes the elasto‐plastic dynamics of the composite at the corresponding scale, and we discuss how they are reciprocally coupled through a transfer of information from one scale to the other. In particular, we highlight how the coarse‐scale plastic distortions influence the fine‐scale problem. Moreover, in the limit of negligible hysteresis effects, we individuate two viscoplastic effective coefficients that encode the information of the two‐scale nature of the composite medium in the upscaled equations. Finally, to deal with a case study tractable semi‐analytically, we consider a multilayered composite material with an initial yield stress that is constant in each phase. Such investigation is meant to contribute to the constitution of a robust framework for devising the effective properties of hierarchical biological media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis research examined how changes in task constraints impacted the throwing patterns of children. The study involved 24 children, with an equal number of males and females, aged 5 and 6. The primary task constraints were the orientation of the target (horizontal or vertical hoops) and the size of the ball (diameters of 6 cm or 12 cm). We observed throwing patterns and analyzed kinematic changes in the preferred throws’ components. Initially, some children transitioned from using two hands to using one hand, and from underhand to overarm throws, particularly when using the larger balls. However, the preferred pattern for most children was one-hand overarm throwing. The kinematic analysis revealed that the participants adapted their throwing technique based on the size of the ball and the orientation of the hoop. The most significant adjustments occurred in the forearm component in response to changes in the target orientation. Notably, when aiming for a vertical hoop, distinct modifications were observed, including elevating the humerus and pulling the hand backward. These findings support the dynamical systems theory, which explains how movement patterns vary during motor development. The study also discussed the potential benefits of using constraints for skill acquisition in physical education settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalent use of inefficient traditional stoves for biomass cooking energy in Nigeria contributes to high rates of biomass consumption, deforestation, and harmful pollutant emissions. This study aimed to assess the constraints hindering the adoption of improved biomass cookstoves (IBCS) in Benue State, Nigeria. Data were randomly collected from 135 households and analyzed using descriptive (frequency, mean and percentage) as well as inferential statistics (binary probit regression). Findings revealed that 88% of households rely on fuelwood for cooking, with approximately 35% still using traditional stoves. However, 46% of households have adopted IBCS and recognized its advantages, including improved cooking speed, fuel economy, time savings in fuelwood collection, cost savings, and reduced smoke emissions. Additionally, various factors such as age, household size, access to credit, location, distance to market, membership of women's associations, fuelwood collection distance, and fuelwood sources were identified as constraints to IBCS adoption. To promote IBCS adoption, we recommend that development planners and extension officers raise awareness among households and provide them credit incentives through government and NGO support. This research significantly contributes to pertinent knowledge by shedding light on the challenges and opportunities associated with IBCS adoption in Nigeria, thereby informing policy and development initiatives in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A linear model-based controller is designed for the CEACS attitude regulation. • Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy model with parallel distribution approach has been used. • The fuzzy-MPC controller achieves the desired CEACS attitude pointing accuracy. • A replica of the fuzzy MPC controller is designed by using deep layer neural network (D-FMPC). • The D-FMPC controller performs equally well as FMPC controller but significantly reduces computational burden. Combined Energy and Attitude Control System (CEACS) reduces the size and mass budgets of typical satellites and consequently, increases their payload capacity. CEACS uses flywheels for a dual purpose, i.e., as both energy storage and attitude control device. This maiden work attempts to introduce a novel Deep-Learning capability of the fuzzy-Model Predictive Control (FMPC) controller for CEACS. The design approach for the fuzzy-MPC controller uses the Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy model of satellite attitudes and computes the control torque through a parallel distribution compensation (PDC) approach. However, the MPC controller offers a high computational burden, and it becomes a significant problem for smaller satellites having limited computational power. Therefore, in this research work, a novel Deep-Learning-based fuzzy-MPC controller (D-FMPC) is designed for the CEACS attitude regulation subject to higher initial angles, actuator constraints, parametric uncertainties, and external disturbance torques. Here, the deep-layer neural network is trained offline with the MPC controller data to replicate the FMPC controller, thus ensuring its controllability. Numerical results validate that the D-FMPC controller successfully mimics the FMPC controller and produces the desired pointing accuracy effectively with smooth transient response and without violating the attitude control actuator constraints. The results also validate that the D-FMPC controller offers significantly reduced computational burden than the FMPC controller. Therefore, the novel Deep-Learning solution provides a feasible platform for applying more complicated and sophisticated attitude control techniques for the CEACS attitude regulation in small satellites as an example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the state and actuator fault reconstruction problem in a class of switched linear systems subjected to unknown external disturbances according to average dwell time (ADT) technique. First, a robust switched sliding mode observer (SMO) is developed to simultaneously reconstruct the states of the switched system and the actuator faults. A novel and less conservative sufficient stability conditions are then established using the multiple quadratic Lyapunov function technique and the ADT approach. These conditions are formulated as linear matrix inequalities (LMI) to facilitate the design of the SMO. The observer gains matrices are obtained throughout the resolution of LMI using convex optimization techniques. Next, actuator faults are estimated by utilizing the concept of equivalent output injection, achieved through an analysis of the state error dynamics during the sliding motion. Finally, simulation results are considered to illustrate the applicability and efficiency of the developed method. It showcases the rapid and accurate convergence of the estimated system states and actuator fault to the real variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin elastic ribbons represent a class of intermediary objects lying in-between thin elastic plates and thin elastic rods. Although the two latter families of thin structures have received much interest from the Computer Graphics community over the last decades, ribbons have seldom been considered and modelled numerically so far, in spite of a growing number of applications in Computer Design. In this article, starting from the reduced developable ribbon models [Sadowsky 1929; Wunderlich 1962] recently popularised in Soft Matter Physics, we propose a both accurate and efficient algorithm for computing the statics of thin elastic ribbons. Inspired by the super-clothoid model for thin elastic rods, our method relies on compact ribbon elements whose normal curvature varies linearly with respect to arc length s, while their geodesic torsion is quadratic in s. In contrast, however, for the sake of efficiency, our algorithm avoids building a fully reduced kinematic chain and instead treats each element independently, gluing them only at the final solving stage through well-chosen bilateral constraints. Thanks to this mixed variational strategy, which yields a banded Hessian, our algorithm recovers the linear complexity of low-order models while preserving the high-order convergence of curvature-based models. As a result, our approach is scalable to a large number of elements, and suitable for various boundary conditions and unilateral contact constraints, making it possible to handle challenging scenarios such as confined buckling experiments or Möbius bands with contact. Remarkably, our mixed algorithm proves an order of magnitude faster compared to Discrete Elastic Ribbon models of the literature while achieving, in a few seconds only, high accuracy levels that remain out of reach for such low-order models. Additionally, our numerical model can incorporate various ribbon energies, including the RibExt model for quasi-developable ribbons recently introduced in Physics [Audoly and Neukirch 2021], which allows to transition smoothly between a rectangular Kirchhoff rod and a (developable) Sadowsky ribbon. Our numerical scheme is carefully validated against demanding experiments of the Physics literature, which demonstrates its accuracy, efficiency, robustness, and versatility. Our Merci code is publicly available at https://gitlab.inria.fr/elan-public-code/merci for the sake of reproducibility and future benchmarking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore the types and frequency of decision-making situations of rugby league players during defensive situations and examine whether they were predictive of key performance indicators (KPI). Fifteen elite rugby league matches were coded using notational analysis methods. Specific defensive situations were analysed, including the number of: one-on-one situations with an opposing attacker (1-on-1), two-on-one situations (2-on-1), and combined 1-on-1 and 2-on-1 situations (i.e., total decisions; TDs). There was no relationship between the game outcome and game KPIs for TDs or 1-on-1 decision-making situations. However, successful tackles and missed tackles were predictive of 2-on-1 decision-making situations. Positional differences revealed that back rowers were exposed to the greatest number of decision-making situations, while wingers had the lowest exposure. The total number of decisions and the number of 1-on-1 decisions made by the centres and wingers were significant predictors of line breaks. Additionally, 2-on-1 decisions were significant predictors of line breaks for backrowers. The findings of this study suggest that the type and frequency of decision-making situations in Rugby League are position specific. Practical applications for coaches are discussed to ensure that practice approaches are representative of the various defensive decision-making demands players experience during a game, based on their position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we explore behaviour settings that enable reasoning and the diversity of constraints that not only limit but also make these behaviour settings possible. We focus specifically on reasoning and surveying how behaviour settings allow for the generation of norms of action that are nevertheless differentiated by geographies and sociocultural systems. These geographies and sociocultural systems involve diverse trajectories for reasoning even within similar behaviour settings. We will touch on places for reasoning like Twitter, social movements, traditional knowledge and laboratories set up for experimentation on our reasoning abilities. We will show how these places and the behaviour settings that emerge in them can be studied in terms of the complexity of the interactions between their participants and in terms of enabling constraints. This article is part of the theme issue 'People, places, things, and communities: expanding behaviour settings theory in the twenty-first century'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate-smart agricultural practices play a crucial role in achieving national food security and development goals, and the significance of extension agents in this endeavor is invaluable. In view of this, this study investigated the constraints limiting the effectiveness of extension agents in disseminating climate-smart agricultural practices to rice farmers in North-central, Nigeria. The study specifically examined the socioeconomic characteristics of the extension agents, the dissemination pathways employed by them, constraints limiting the extension agents from effectively disseminating climate-smart agricultural practices, and the factors that influence their constraints. Data for the study were collected using a well-structured questionnaire administered to a total of 88 respondents selected through a multistage sampling procedure. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and Pearson product--moment correlation. The result showed that the respondents had a mean age of 48 years, the majority were males (93.2%), married (95.5%), and (85.2%) had tertiary education. Dissemination pathway/method mostly used by the extension were; farm and home visits (... = 1.73), result demonstration (... = 1.66), and methods demonstration (... = 1.58). The constraints impeding the extension agents in disseminating CSA practices were; insufficient number of extension workers to provide services for a large number of farmers (... = 1.87), lack of incentives for staff motivation (... = 1.83), inadequate means of transportation (... = 1.83), were ranked 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, respectively. There was a negative significant correlation (p = 0.05) between the number of training and personal constraints, as well as institutional constraints (p = 0.017) in the dissemination of climate-smart agricultural practices. Therefore, it is recommended that extension agents receive periodic training and incentives such as awards, cash rewards, promotions, and staff recognition from government bodies to enhance their performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many of the proposals for post-war reconstruction of Yemen are founded upon idealistic and unrealistic visions of the state of the country. This article, by contrast, focuses on the multiple and complex problems which will have to be faced once Yemen returns to a semblance of recognisable governance. It lists the different types of constraints which will have to be addressed, both intrinsic and international. Internally, there are both long-standing factors which are unrelated to the war situation and others which are largely war-related. Externally there are factors which depend on the country's international partners, such as the states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and multilateral and international financial institutions. In the first category, water scarcity and other climate change factors are the most fundamental, followed by demographic issues including social infrastructure, the age pyramid and the overall discrepancy between the growing size of the population and the available natural resources. War – related constraints are primarily of two kinds: the deep and serious fragmentation of the country, and the socio-economic impact of years of dependence on humanitarian aid. Equally important, are the development strategies imposed by the external financiers and the likelihood that the available financing will be well below both need and expectation. Throughout, the article briefly outlines suggestions to address these constraints, insofar as this can be done in ignorance of the outcome of the war. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell biologists, including those seeking molecular mechanistic explanations of cellular phenomena, frequently rely on experimental strategies focused on identifying the cellular context relevant to their investigations. We suggest that such practices can be understood as a guided decomposition strategy, where molecular explanations of phenomena are defined in relation to natural contextual (cell) boundaries. This “top-down” strategy contrasts with “bottom-up” reductionist approaches where well-defined molecular structures and activities are orphaned by their displacement from actual biological functions. We focus on the central role of microscopic imaging in cell biology to uncover possible constraints on the system. We show how identified constraints are used heuristically to limit possible mechanistic explanations to those that are biologically meaningful. Historical examples of this process described here include discovery of the mechanism of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria, molecular explanation of the first steps in protein secretion, and identification of molecular motors. We suggest that these instances are examples of a form of downward causation or, more specifically, constraining relations, where higher-level structures and variables delimit and enable lower-level system states. The guided decomposition strategy in our historical cases illustrates the irreducibility of experimentally identified constraints in explaining biological activities of cells. Rather than viewing decomposition and recomposition as separate epistemic activities, we contend that they need to be iteratively integrated to account for the ontological complexity of multi-level systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research is to analyze the application of the Next Generation Social Welfare Information System (SIKS-NG) in Gunung Gabungan Village, Gomo Sub-district, South Nias Regency, and identify the obstacles faced in its use. The research method used is qualitative, with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, library research, and documentation. This research involved village officials and users of the SIKS-NG application as key informants. The results showed that although the SIKS-NG application has the potential to improve the efficiency of community data management, various obstacles such as the lack of understanding of village officials, limited infrastructure, and human resource capacity issues hinder the optimization of application use. Direct observations and interviews with informants revealed that intensive training and improved technological infrastructure are needed to support the implementation of this application. Further discussion shows the importance of collaboration between central and local governments as well as support from educational institutions in developing the capacity of village officials. This study concludes that the implementation of SIKS-NG in Gunung Gabungan Village requires a systematic and sustainable approach to overcome various obstacles, as well as to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the application in improving public services. Recommendations are given for the development of more comprehensive training and improved infrastructure to support optimal use of the application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study aimed to investigate the perceived affordances of incorporating esports into higher education using an ecological systems approach that examined the multiple factors shaping behaviours at the individual, interpersonal, and organisational levels. A total of 40 participants, comprising 32 students and 8 teachers, were invited to take part in semi-structured interviews. The data gathered from the interviews underwent qualitative analysis through the employment of thematic analysis methods. The results suggested that esports were perceived as having the potential to promote students' skills development and foster an interactive learning culture. The study also identified constraints on esports integration at various levels, including student differences (i.e. in gaming interest, skills, attention, and physical capacity) and teachers' insufficient knowledge (i.e. of esports and related pedagogy and content) at the individual level; concerns about the negative impacts of esports at the interpersonal level; and a lack of effective execution of university leadership at the organisational level. The results of this study offer valuable insights for education leaders into how to effectively exercise leadership in the context of esports. Specifically, the findings underscore the importance of developing professional development programmes for teachers to enhance their knowledge of the use of esports and related pedagogy and teaching content to improve the implementation of esports-based instruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to elaborate the significance of safeguards in digital ecosystems and their role in generating trust among participants. This paper argues that the right mix and number of safeguards are crucial for an ecosystem's growth and success. It offers ecosystem orchestrators concrete guidelines for how to implement and monitor safeguards. Design/methodology/approach: This research is based on both consulting experience and publicly available information on several digital ecosystems. Findings: This research conceptualizes safeguards as precautionary mechanisms that mandate or promote desirable behavior in an effort to engender trust among ecosystem participants. Safeguards can take various forms, including passwords, escrow, user privacy controls, ratings and reviews and policies and contracts. Striking the right balance of safeguards – neither too few nor too many – is crucial for ecosystem orchestrators. This paper identifies the factors that determine the optimal mix of safeguards, including the power asymmetry between sellers and buyers, the sophistication of participants, the nature of transactions, the cost of negative outcomes and the cost-benefit tradeoff. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is one of the first to illuminate the relationship between safeguards and trust in the context of digital ecosystem. It is also one of the few attempts to provide managerial guidance for ecosystem designers trying to structure their platform for trust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation took place in five districts of Haryana, India, namely, Ambala, Kaithal, Karnal, Kurukshetra, and Yamunanagar. The primary objective was to understand the challenges confronted by farmers in adopting water conservation management practices. The findings presented in this paper stem from a field survey conducted during the 2020-21 period involving 150 respondents. These participants were interviewed using a well-structured and pretested interview schedule. The analysis of the collected data was performed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) tool. The results indicate that a majority of respondents identified financial constraints (WMS 2.45) and infrastructure constraints (WMS 2.39) as highly serious, while constraints related to manpower (WMS 2.15) and awareness were considered comparatively less serious (WMS 2.03). The study's conclusion highlights that most respondents perceive these constraints as significant, underscoring the urgent need to motivate and encourage farmers to embrace effective management practices. Additionally, the study emphasizes the necessity for a water policy to ensure its proper utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the increasingly important roles of hospice care in Chinese society, and points out that the development of hospice care in China is often restricted by certain factors. Based on a qualitative study, it examines the ethical dilemmas faced by hospice care, including life, medicine, family, and society. It puts forward specific countermeasures for terminal patients, medical personnel, family members, and social work related to hospice care, and argues that the accessibility, availability, acceptability, and effectiveness of hospice care services should be improved from multiple dimensions, such as policy support, service supply, social atmosphere, and individual participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the constrained Cosserat theory of a rod with a rigid cross-section, the balance of angular momentum is satisfied by a restriction on the constitutive equations that requires a second order tensor to be symmetric. The kinematics of the rod are determined by satisfying the balances of linear and director momentum and kinematic constraints. In contrast, the Antman model for a special Cosserat theory of rods proposes constitutive equations directly for the force and mechanical moment applied to the rod and the kinematics are determined by the balances of linear and angular momentum. These two models differ by their treatment of angular momentum. This note poses and answers the question: Are the solutions of these two models identical for the same strain energy? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chawki rearing centers (CRCs) play a pivotal role in the sericulture industry by focusing on the cultivation and rearing of high-quality silkworms, known as chawki. This study investigates the primary constraints faced by CRCs across various operational aspects, including agricultural practices, labor management, technical support, and market dynamics. Key findings reveal significant challenges such as the absence of drought-resistant mulberry varieties, high capital requirements for wages, labor shortages, and inadequate technical guidance. Natural factors like climate change and pest outbreaks further exacerbate these issues, impacting silkworm health and productivity. Marketing constraints, such as price volatility and transportation costs, add to the operational complexities of CRCs. The study underscores the need for coordinated efforts among government agencies, research institutions, and industry stakeholders to address these challenges and enhance the sustainability of chawki rearing in the sericulture sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) is an ongoing screening program that deals with early detection and management of the 4Ds prevalent in children (defects at birth, diseases, deficiencies, and developmental delays). It runs a District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC), which is an interdisciplinary approach of a multidisciplinary team placed under one roof. It provides referral support to children detected with health conditions during health screening. Aims: This study was conducted to assess the clinicosocial profile characteristics of the beneficiaries attending DEIC and to explore the challenges faced by both the caregivers and service providers. Settings and Design: A facility-based, mixed-method study with phenomenological approach was conducted in Burdwan Medical College of Purba Bardhaman district, West Bengal, from January 2023 to April 2023. Methods and Materials: For quantitative part, record analysis was conducted involving all children enrolled at DEIC from January 2022 to December 2022, and for qualitative part, caregivers and service providers were selected purposively and interviewed using the in-depth-interview (IDI) guide. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted simultaneously till data saturation was achieved. Statistical Analysis Used: The principles of descriptive statistics were applied to organize and present the quantitative data in tables and diagrams. Qualitative data were transcribed into verbatim and analyzed thematically with inductive approach. Results: Out of 3332 children enrolled, 58.4% were males, and 44.2% were aged between 0 and 1 month. 59.3% of them had developmental delays, 7.9% had defects, 42.9% had diseases, and 21.3% had some deficiencies. Major hindering factors in service provision among service providers were resource deficiency, inadequate capacity building, administrative bottlenecks, limited supportive supervision, inadequate advocacy, and awareness deficit. No major constraints were found from caregivers’ perspective in accessing healthcare. Conclusions: DEIC is running with shortage of proper infrastructure and adequate supervision. Periodic training, appropriate awareness building, and continuous flow of logistics are needed to ensure a better quality of life among beneficiaries.

Contemporary descriptions of motor control suggest that variability in movement can be indicative of skilled or unskilled performance. Here we used principal component analysis to study the kicking performance of elite and sub-elite soldiers who were highly familiar with the skill in order to compare the variability in the first and second principal components. The subjects kicked a force plate under a range of loaded conditions. and their movement was recorded using optical motion capture. The first principal component explained >92% of the variability across all kinematic variables when analyzed separately for each condition, and both groups and explained more of the variation in the movement of the elite group. There was more variation in the loading coefficient of the first principal component for the sub-elite group. In contrast. for the second principal component, there was more variation in the loading coefficient for the elite group, and the relative magnitude of the variation was greater than for the first principal component for both groups. These results suggest that the first principal component represented the most fundamental movement pattern, and there was less variation in this mode for the elite group. In addition. more of the variability was explained by the hip than the knee angle entered when both variables were entered into the same PCA. which suggests that the movement is driven by the hip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El programa docente de Proyectos Arquitectónicos en la Escuela de Arquitectura de la Universidad Europea de Canarias está integrado desde 2º hasta 6º curso, y se estructura mediante una metodología progresiva que aborda la enseñanza del diseño arquitectónico desde una perspectiva integral. A lo largo de los cursos, los estudiantes exploran diversas escalas y tipologías arquitectónicas, comenzando con proyectos de pequeña escala en el segundo año, como refugios de montaña y viviendas unifamiliares, hasta intervenciones urbanas complejas y edificios institucionales en el sexto año. Esta evolución permite a los estudiantes adquirir un dominio exhaustivo de la disciplina, adaptándose a los diferentes contextos urbanos y programas arquitectónicos. El enfoque pedagógico se basa en cuatro condiciones fundamentales: la escala, la complejidad programática, la intensidad urbana y la tecnología. Los estudiantes desarrollan proyectos que integran estos aspectos, abordando la relación entre diseño arquitectónico y normativa urbanística. Se promueve el uso de herramientas digitales avanzadas y técnicas sostenibles, lo que fortalece sus competencias para enfrentar los desafíos profesionales. El resultado es una preparación sólida que asegura que los estudiantes comprendan profundamente la interacción entre arquitectura, entorno y sociedad. La metodología, aplicada con éxito en los cursos 2021-22 y 2022-23, ha mejorado notablemente la percepción estudiantil de su seguridad personal y la evaluación de proyectos finales. Esto demuestra que los egresados están capacitados para desempeñarse con eficacia en el ámbito profesional, gestionando proyectos de diversas escalas y complejidades con seguridad pre-profesional. Abstract Architectural Design teaching program at the School of Architecture of the European University of the Canary Islands is integrated from the 2nd to the 6th year and is structured through a progressive methodology that approaches the teaching of architectural design from a comprehensive perspective. Throughout the courses, students explore various architectural scales and typologies, starting with small-scale projects in the second year, such as mountain refuges and single-family homes, up to complex urban interventions and institutional buildings in the sixth year. This progression allows students to gain an in-depth understanding of the discipline, adapting to different urban contexts and architectural programs. Our pedagogical approach is based on four fundamental conditions: scale, programmatic complexity, urban intensity, and technology. Students develop projects that integrate these aspects, addressing the relationship between architectural design and urban planning regulations. The use of advanced digital tools and sustainable techniques is promoted, which strengthens their competencies to face professional challenges. The result is a solid preparation that ensures students deeply understand the interaction between architecture, environment, and society. The methodology, successfully applied during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 academic years, has significantly improved students' perception of their personal confidence and the evaluation of final projects. This demonstrates that graduates are well-equipped to perform effectively in the professional field, managing projects of various scales and complexities with pre-professional confidence.

Abstract This research introduces a new technique to control constrained nonlinear systems, named Lyapunov-based neural network model predictive control using a metaheuristic optimization approach. This controller utilizes a feedforward neural network model as a prediction model and employs the driving training based optimization algorithm to resolve the related constrained optimization problem. The proposed controller relies on the simplicity and accuracy of the feedforward neural network model and the convergence speed of the driving training based optimization algorithm. The closed-loop stability of the developed controller is ensured by including the Lyapunov function as a constraint in the cost function. The efficiency of the suggested controller is illustrated by controlling the angular speed of three-phase squirrel cage induction motor. The reached results are contrasted to those of other methods, specifically the fuzzy logic controller optimized by teaching learning-based optimization algorithm, the optimized PID with particle swarm optimization algorithm, the neural network model predictive controller based on particle swarm optimization algorithm, and the neural network model predictive controller using driving training based optimization algorithm. This comparative study showcase that the suggested controller provides good accuracy, quickness and robustness due to the obtained values of the mean absolute error, mean square error root mean square error, enhancement percentage, and computing time in the different simulation cases, and it can be efficiently utilized to control constrained nonlinear systems with fast dynamics.

Morus sp. is a versatile resource with diverse benefits; however, its cultivation may entail negative environmental impacts. Environmental legislation imposes constraints to mitigate these effects. The current study presents a three-tier classification approach to assess the severity of constraints imposed by environmental legislation on Morus sp. cultivation. The approach is tested in a case study area located in BG0000254 Besaparski vazvishenita, Bratsigovo Municipality, Bulgaria. Approximately 23.6% of this area is under strict protection, thereby prohibiting cultivation. In about 21.3% of the area, Morus sp. cultivation is feasible but most probably an Appropriate Assessment procedure will be required to ensure nonsignificant negative impact. In the remaining 56.4% of the area, notification/screening is necessary, with the likelihood of not requiring a full Appropriate Assessment procedure. Thus, despite a significant portion being under strict protection, there remains potential for Morus sp. cultivation within the study area, albeit with varying procedural complexities. Thе proposed constraints classification approach can inform land use planning, facilitating informed decision-making in site selection not only for Morus sp. but for all types of permanent crops.

The indispensable requisite for sustainable, and equitable early childhood education is innovative educators with developmentally appropriate strategies to communicate essential skills to young children. Holistic development of young infants, especially those under five years old lays the foundation of lifelong learning. Research revealed that songs and rhymes aid the development of fundamental abilities in children. However, most of the South African Early Childhood Development (ECD) educators are ill-equipped with expertise hence their constraints in using music-based pedagogy to aid in the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) children’s acquisition of conversational skills. Therefore, this case study explored the constraints and proposed solutions for rural ECD educators in employing music-based pedagogies to impart conversational skills to learners. Six ECCE educators were purposively sampled from centres in Kimberley, Northern Cape province, South Africa to participate in a semi-structured interview and reflective writing. The generated data was analyzed thematically. All the participants concurred that the teaching method centered on music was the best for the ECCE classroom, however, they were restricted by factors such as inadequate expertise in music education, a dearth of musical materials, and a lack of government funding to acquire musical resources and inadequate infrastructural facilities and human resources. They believed that a short musical intervention program would boost their effectiveness and their self-confidence in employing music-based pedagogy to impact children’s language development. The study recommends that a resilient support system be implemented to support ECD educators with basic musical abilities. The results of this study will help curriculum creators and ECD/ECCE policymakers improve the developmental facilities available for teaching and learning.

Departmental heads (DHs) in primary schools have multiple roles and responsibilities to fulfil. They are expected to perform diverse roles that are not only limited to being class teachers but also as supervisors, coordinators, and departmental managers. Most of them do not receive formal training to become DHs, how to perform these roles, or how to respond to the challenges accompanying these roles and responsibilities. This study aims to establish strategies to manage constraints that prevent departmental heads from fulfilling their roles effectively within the Vhembe West District of Limpopo Province. The study employed an interpretive paradigm to understand the social realities that DHs experience at school. The study was conducted within the Theory of Constraints (TOC). The research design of this study was a multiple-qualitative case study. The population of the study was all DHs in Elim, Soutpansberg East, and Vhuronga Two (2) Circuits. Purposeful sampling was employed to draw a sample of 9 DHs. Data was collected through a semi-structured interview schedule and document analysis. The data was analysed thematically. Findings from this study revealed, amongst others, the following: the roles of all participants in monitoring, curriculum management, coordination, and planning activities to enhance the implementation of the curriculum. This study recommended, among others that DHs should be excluded from being full-time classroom teachers, and policymakers should reduce the current teaching load of DHs. The study contributes to the empowerment of DHs in their roles despite the huge workload of teaching and supervising teachers in their departments. This is possible through employing distributive leadership wherein they solicit the skills of senior teachers to assist them, thereby enhancing shared leadership, collective action, and collaborative decision-making.

When calamity hits humanity in the form of natural disasters, they appear unannounced. The same applies to the recent destructive and disruptive Covid-19 pandemic. During the early days of this pandemic, life activities were halted abruptly. Global education systems were not spared - most institutions were caught napping and forced to close. The educational development of children was adversely affected by the hard lockdown and stringent restrictions that followed the outbreak of the pandemic. The role that parents had to play in the education of their children needed to evolve to meet the new demands.

The Delphi method was used to gather assessments from 93 experts about drivers of future angling participation by locals and tourist anglers in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. The main drivers of future angling participation related to habitat and fish populations, and access to and information about fishing. For Norway and Finland, the predicted future decline in local angler numbers was consistent with a life‐cycle model of recreational fisheries, while the anticipated increase for the three other countries contradicted the model. For tourist anglers, growth was expected for both domestic and foreign tourists. Long‐term and societal drivers, such as urbanization, sociocultural changes, and climate change were not seen as strong drivers, and may be considered out of reach by managers, but should be included with information and conservation drivers in angler recruitment and retention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of optimal synthesis of a nonlinear system's control law parameters of satellite attitude control under constraints is considered. The maximum stability degree of a system is considered as an optimality criterion. The reaction wheels' control moments and angular velocities achievable within the drives' physical characteristics are considered as constraints. A linear model of the system converted from the original nonlinear model was used to solve the problem. The decomposition method, based on the transition from real time to relative time, is used to separate the tasks of optimality criterion maximization and constraints consideration. A method of synthesizing the optimal form of system transient process according to the maximum stability degree criterion is developed. An analytical method for determining the optimal values of control law parameters is proposed, based on the structural features of the linear differential equations system. A method that takes into account constraints on control moments and angular velocities of reaction wheels, based on transition scale from relative time to real time and its calculation algorithm, ensuring that conditions of all constraints are met, is developed. An example of solving the problem of optimal system synthesis is considered. The results demonstrate the effectiveness and simplicity of the proposed methods and algorithm for targeted selection of a system's technical characteristics, taking into account constraints on reaction wheels' maximum angular velocities and control moments values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the sustainability of rural roads is of great significance to the integrated promotion of rural habitat improvement, the maintenance of regional ecological patterns, and the implementation of the rural revitalization strategy. This paper examines the constraints to ensuring the sustainability of road infrastructure in rural Shaanxi, China. Rural road infrastructure plays an important role in poverty alleviation. Rural Shaanxi Province is situated among a variety of terrains and spans a large area. Therefore, using the current situation of rural roads in the province as a starting point, the constraints and their rankings that impede the sustainability of road infrastructure are identified through the fuzzy Delphi method (FDM) and structural equation modeling (SEM), which in turn suggests governance measures that can be taken. The data in this paper come from 498 valid questionnaires obtained from 50 townships and 101 sample villages in Shaanxi Province. Due to the huge number of questionnaires, the questionnaires were tested with the help of SPSS 26.0 software, which showed that the questionnaires had high reliability and validity, and then the structural equation model was validated and modified according to the recommendations of goodness-of-fit statistics measurement and the modification index. Finally, the key factors affecting the sustainable development of rural road infrastructure were finally identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research introduces a new technique to control constrained nonlinear systems, named Lyapunov-based neural network model predictive control using a metaheuristic optimization approach. This controller utilizes a feedforward neural network model as a prediction model and employs the driving training based optimization algorithm to resolve the related constrained optimization problem. The proposed controller relies on the simplicity and accuracy of the feedforward neural network model and the convergence speed of the driving training based optimization algorithm. The closed-loop stability of the developed controller is ensured by including the Lyapunov function as a constraint in the cost function. The efficiency of the suggested controller is illustrated by controlling the angular speed of three-phase squirrel cage induction motor. The reached results are contrasted to those of other methods, specifically the fuzzy logic controller optimized by teaching learning-based optimization algorithm, the optimized PID with particle swarm optimization algorithm, the neural network model predictive controller based on particle swarm optimization algorithm, and the neural network model predictive controller using driving training based optimization algorithm. This comparative study showcase that the suggested controller provides good accuracy, quickness and robustness due to the obtained values of the mean absolute error, mean square error root mean square error, enhancement percentage, and computing time in the different simulation cases, and it can be efficiently utilized to control constrained nonlinear systems with fast dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat production in Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is a small but rapidly growing sector owing to strong export demand, primarily from Vietnam. Disease has been identified as one of the major constraints to goat production but there are limited data on causes and effective control strategies. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of veterinary and extension services in rural areas. Information on the major disease and clinical syndromes of goats and their causative agents is needed to develop local and national control strategies and to improve animal welfare. Zoonotic diseases involving goats are also potentially important in terms of live goat trade and public health, albeit research is lacking. This review summarises and evaluates the available published data on caprine diseases in Lao PDR and provides possible disease control strategies to improve goat production in Lao PDR. Surveys and observations suggest that lip and facial dermatitis, eye conditions and diarrhoea are the most common clinical syndromes affecting the health of Lao goats. These clinical syndromes can be considered as priorities for Lao goats. Serological surveys conducted in limited geographical areas of the country have identified moderate seroprevalence of foot and mouth disease (FMD) and low seroprevalence of bluetongue, peste des petits ruminants (PPR), brucellosis and Q fever in goats. Accordingly, the clinical signs associated with the latter diseases were not commonly reported. Trichostrongylus spp., Haemonchus contortus and coccidia are the main gastro-intestinal parasites identified among Lao goats. Despite these studies, an understanding of the causation of the most common clinical syndromes in Lao goats is still lacking, similar to the situation in many other parts of Southeast Asia. Studies to determine the causation of common clinical syndromes need to be conducted in Lao goats if progress is to be made on overcoming the disease constraint. Similarly, studies are also needed to evaluate interventions that have been introduced to limit the impact of these disease and clinical syndromes. They will likely require changes to goat management and nutrition, in addition to disease-specific interventions. Disease is one of the major issues affecting goat production in Lao PDR. Although only a limited number of studies have been published on diseases in Lao goats, a review of the available literature is desirable, given that goat production is rapidly expanding among smallholder farmers. This review article brings together the disease-related studies for a better understanding of health and production in Lao goats. This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Role-based access control (RBAC) is a widely adopted access control model in various domains for defining security management. Role mining is closely related to role-based access control, as the latter employs role assignments to offer a flexible and scalable approach to managing permissions within an organization. The edge role mining problem (Edge RMP), a variant of the role mining problem (RMP), has long been recognized as an effective strategy for role assignment. Role mining, which groups users with similar access permissions into the same role, bears some resemblance to symmetry. Symmetry categorizes objects or graphics with identical characteristics into one group. Both involve a certain form of "classification" or "induction". Edge-RMP reduces the associations between users and permissions, thereby lowering the security risks faced by the system. While an algorithm based on Boolean matrix factorization exists for this problem, it fails to further refine the resulting user–role assignment (UA) and role–permission assignment (PA) relationships. Additionally, this algorithm does not address constraint-related issues, such as cardinality constraints, user exclusion constraints, and user capabilities. Furthermore, it demonstrates significant redundancy of roles when handling large datasets, leaving room for further optimization of Edge-RMP results. To address these concerns, this paper proposes the MFC-RMA algorithm based on Boolean matrix factorization. The method achieves significant optimization of Edge-RMP results by handling relationships between roles possessing various permissions. Furthermore, this paper clusters, compresses, modifies, and optimizes the original data based on the similarity between users, ensuring its usability for role mining. Both theoretical and practical considerations are taken into account for different types of constraints, and algorithms are devised to reallocate roles incorporating these constraints, thereby generating UA and PA matrices. The proposed approach yields optimal numbers of generated roles and the sum of the minimum number of generated edges to address the aforementioned issues. Experimental results demonstrate that the algorithm reduces management overhead, provides efficient execution results, and ensures the accuracy of generated roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the frameworks of creativity as problem solving and Integrated Constraints in Creativity (IConIC), this article develops the proposal that creativity is best understood in terms of a cycle of constraint exploration and exploitation. This general thesis, which applies to varied domains and levels of creativity, is supported by three specific proposals about the role of constraints in creativity, each of which is developed and illustrated with examples. First, constraints provide the criteria for the evaluation of creative outcomes, which can vary as a function of the emphasis on novel usefulness or useful novelty. Second, constraints are critical in each step of the creative process: problem finding, problem construction, and problem solving. Third, constraints play a key role in both open-ended and closed-ended creative problems. These arguments are supported by specific predictions, concerning: (a) task differences in whether novelty or usefulness are emphasized more; (b) individual differences in the processing of constraints (some may favor flexible constraint exploration, while others may favor persistent constraint exploitation), which I hypothesize also correlate with (c) engagement in different types of creative problem-solving (more open-ended, of the sort encountered in art, vs. more closed-ended, of the sort encountered in science, business, and engineering). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To minimize total operating costs, emissions, and power losses, the optimum power generation and scheduling of renewable integrated hydro-thermal systems are one of the most significant objectives in short-term scheduling. The solution to these problems becomes more difficult with constraints and renewable uncertainties. The paper presents an improved cheetah optimizer (ICO) for solving the optimum wind-solar-hydro-thermal scheduling problem considering valve loading effects, ramp-rate limits, power loss, and prohibited operational zone constraints. The main objective is to optimize the total fuel cost and emissions for thermal power generators, where electric power can be fully harnessed from renewable generators. Different test systems are employed to evaluate the proposed ICO solution method's performance. The proposed ICO solution method is compared with other algorithms like grey wolf optimizer, and particle swarm optimizer, in terms of optimal fuel costs, emissions, convergence success rate, and computation time. The test systems are incorporated with wind farms, solar farm, hydropower generators, and thermal power generators scheduled for 24-h, 1-h subintervals. The simulation solutions of the renewable integrated system have been acquired by ICO, CO, GWO, and PSO. The total generation cost obtained by ICO is 0.0698%, and 0.1514% lower than the cost obtained by GWO, and PSO respectively. The total power loss was minimized by 1.8554% and 7.4002%. The total emissions can be reduced to 25% with increasing penetration of renewable energy sources. It is realized from the comparison that the proposed ICO method has the potential to provide better-quality solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Trilinearity is a property of some chemical data that leads to unique decompositions when curve resolution or multiway decomposition methods are used. Curve resolution algorithms, such as Multivariate Curve Resolution–Alternating Least Squares (MCR‐ALS), can provide trilinear models by implementing the trilinearity condition as a constraint. However, some trilinear analytical measurements, such as excitation–emission matrix (EEM) measurements, usually exhibit systematic patterns of missing data due to the nature of the technique, which imply a challenge to the classical implementation of the trilinearity constraint. In this instance, extrapolation or imputation methodologies may not provide optimal results. Recently, a novel algorithmic strategy to constrain trilinearity in MCR‐ALS in the presence of missing data was developed. This strategy relies on the sequential imposition of a classical trilinearity restriction on different submatrices of the original investigated dataset, but, although effective, was found to be particularly slow and requires a proper submatrix selection criterion. In this paper, a much simpler implementation of the trilinearity constraint in MCR‐ALS capable of handling systematic patterns of missing data and based on the principles of the Nonlinear Iterative Partial Least Squares (NIPALS) algorithm is proposed. This novel approach preserves the trilinearity of the retrieved component profiles without requiring data imputation or subset selection steps and, as with all other constraints designed for MCR‐ALS, offers the flexibility to be applied component‐wise or data block‐wise, providing hybrid bilinear/trilinear models. Furthermore, it can be easily extended to cope with any trilinear or higher‐order dataset with whatever pattern of missing values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archiving Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) based ethnomedicinal practices among tribal communities in The Nilgiris refers to the systematic collection, documentation, and preservation of traditional medicinal knowledge and practices that are passed down through generations within tribal communities in the Nilgiris region. The research documents ITK- based ethnomedicinal practices among six Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the region. Knowledge includes the use of local herbs, plants, and other natural resources for healing and maintaining health, which is an integral part of the cultural heritage and identity of these communities. Interviews with traditional healers from these communities reveal diverse medicinal uses of 30 plant species for treating ailments such as inflammation, fever, asthma, and snake bites. Study highlights the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and the need for strategies to overcome the constraints faced by healers, ensuring the sustainability of these invaluable practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High dropout rates and a lack of academic resilience continue to plague South African higher education. Often, this is more prevalent in practical disciplines that have been subjected to curriculum changes in recent years, such as engineering. It is challenging to understand academic resilience in university settings due to insufficient research. Therefore, more information is needed on the role of personal characteristics and the socio-ecological university environment in enabling and constraining students' academic resilience. To assist higher education institutions in theorising academic resilience, this article presents a novel conceptual framework of Ungar's social-ecological theory, and Ebersöhn's Flocking theory. As part of this theorisation, this article also provides diverse perspectives on academic resilience from engineering students, lecturers, and support staff through semi-structured interviews. An analysis of this qualitative data was conducted using thematic analysis. A major finding of the study was that enabling factors were principally personal, whereas constraining factors were principally socio-ecological. Findings led to the development of an original framework for conceptualising the enablers and constraints of academic resilience in engineering students. This conceptual framework could guide towards the identification of areas of priority for academic resilience and in doing so contribute to interventions to reduce student dropout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]