Measurement Of Variables Research Articles

Bank mergers, corporate governance, and the impact on Maqashid Sharia performance

This paper aims to examine the effects of bank mergers and corporate governance to maqashid sharia performance. This study also aims to examine the effect of corporate governance as a moderating variable. In this study, the measurement of variables using Integrated Maqashid Sharia Performance Measurement (IMSPM) which includes dimensions consisting of faith (din), self (nafs), intellect ('aql), posterity (nasl), and wealth (mal). Data processing was carried out using SPSS Statistics 29 with the source data of bank financial statements before and after the merger. The data includes the financial statements of BNI Syariah, BRI Syariah, Bank Mandiri Syariah 2015 – 2020 and also Bank BSI 2021 – 2023. The results showed that bank mergers have a positive effect on maqashid sharia performance. However, the corporate governance variable consisting of the independence and remuneration of the Sharia Supervisory Board (SSB) shows that the independence of SSB has no effect on the maqashid sharia performance and remuneration SSB has a negative effect. Independence of SSB has no effect to maqashid sharia performance because SSB who are not independent or hold concurrent positions will have more experience due to their role in other Islamic institutions and banks. In addition, SSB remuneration has a negative effect because when viewed from the operational side, the high remuneration received by SSB will actually increase the burden on banks so that it has an impact on their maqashid sharia performance. Nevertheless, corporate governance variables both independence and remuneration of SSB can strengthen the effect of mergers on maqashid sharia performance.

Circadian rhythms and objective measures of physical activity among middle-aged and older adults in Taiwan

BackgroundTo identify the association between daytime activity with objectively monitor and subjective variables at a different time-zone of day as well as the sex differences. MethodsParticipants aged 50 years and older living in the community in Taiwan were recruited. The activity was measured by wearable actigraphy devices, diaries, and self-reported questionnaires. The study used nonparametric analysis to examine the association between mean activity level and demographic and subjective measurement variables. ResultsAmong the 55 participants enrolled in the study, data of 34 (62 %) participants who meet the criteria that wore a wearable actigraphy device for at least 7 completed days were analyzed. There is no significant relationship between each demographics and subjective measurement variables. However, actigraphy counts are significantly related to female's nutrition (Z = -2.367, p = 0.017*), and male's retirement status (Z = -2.132, p = 0.033*). ConclusionsThe activity in morning is highest of the day with significant correlation to evening activities. Moreover, actigraphy counts that indicating objective measure of physical activity in female is significantly related to physiological variables (nutritional status), while male are predicted by social variables (retired status).

Discrete-time Luenberger observer design for Lithium-ion battery state-of-charge with stability guarantee

State-of-charge (SOC) estimation is particularly important as it provides information about the remaining energy capacity of the battery, allowing for better planning and utilization. Accurate SOC estimation is challenging because it cannot be directly measured from the battery. Instead, it is estimated by analyzing measurable variables such as current and voltage. To address this challenge, a discrete-time observer-based SOC estimation approach is proposed in this paper. This approach utilizes a second-order equivalent circuit model and a piecewise linear approximation to represent the relationship between SOC and open circuit voltage (OCV). The proposed observer-based approach utilizes these models to estimate the SOC with assured asymptotic stability under specific assumptions to simplify the design process. Simulations in Python are conducted to evaluate the performance of the designed observer. In the simulations, the SOC estimation under various conditions, such as model uncertainty, disturbances, and measurement noise, is also covered. In addition, three different observer gains are considered in the simulations. Lastly, simulation studies indicate that the estimated SOC values converge to the real SOC values, with some different behavior depending on the regarded situations.

The Effectiveness of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Approaches in Low Back Pain on Pain Severity and Disability; A Systematic Review

The objective of this study was to review the efficacy of physical therapy and rehabilitation approaches for low back pain, focusing on pain intensity and disability. A survey of the literature was done in PubMed and Web of Science databases up to January 30, 2024. English studies were required, using keywords: “low back pain,” “pain intensity,” “pain severity,” “disability,” and “physical therapy.” Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale and Numeric Rating Scale, including the 11-point Pain Intensity Numerical Rating Scale. Disability was assessed using Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scales, Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire, and Oswestry Disability Index. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria from 665 initial records. Interventions included osteopathic manipulative treatment, core muscle exercise with interferential current, cognitive functional therapy, dry cupping therapy, high-intensity machine-based core muscle resistance training,heat therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, pelvic traction, Reiki, dynamic muscular stabilization technique, and McGill Big 3. Sample sizes ranged from 30 to 1090 participants. Interferential current combined with core muscle exercises significantly reduced pain intensity compared to each method alone, though not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The high-intensity machine-based core muscle resistance training program group had greater pain relief (P0.05). Dry cupping did not outperform sham cupping. Cognitive functional therapy reduced absenteeism in the first two years but not later. Reiki showed significant improvement in pain and Activities of Daily Living compared to drug therapy, but not to physiotherapy. Physical therapy interventions effectively alleviate symptoms and enhance results for low back pain. However, variability in interventions and outcome measures necessitates cautious interpretation. Further research with standardized protocols is essential to understand the effectiveness and optimal duration of physical therapy for Low Back Pain.

A Mixed-Methods Examination of Perceived Burdensomeness in Emerging Adults

ABSTRACT This mixed methods study aims to identify contexts within which young adults report perceptions of being a burden. Participants (N = 243) completed self-report measures of study variables and provided examples of times they felt like a burden. Seven major categories were developed from the qualitative analysis. Quantitative analyses indicated no significant differences across coding themes with respect to perceived burdensomeness. A significant association regarding intensity ratings of perceived burdensomeness was found when comparing categories of perception of failure and drain on resources. These results provide unique insight regarding the nature of how individuals describe the contexts within which they perceive themselves to be a burden. Since maladaptive cognitions of perceived burdensomeness may be related to suicide risk, identifying these contexts could inform avenues for adapting clinical interventions designed to target perceived burdensomeness.

Macroinvertebrates functional feeding groups (FFGs) of forested streams draining urban catchments in the Niger Delta: identifying and classifying vulnerable and tolerant FFGs

ABSTRACT This study aims to assess the vulnerability and tolerance levels of macroinvertebrate functional feeding groups (FFGs) in forested streams draining urban areas in the Niger Delta. It contributes to our understanding of how human activities affect freshwater ecosystems. Between 2008 and 2012, we conducted monthly measurements of physicochemical variables and collected macroinvertebrates. We categorised sampling sites into three groups based on disturbance levels: least impacted sites (LIS), moderately impacted sites (MIS), and heavily impacted sites (HIS). Multivariate (RLQ) analysis was used to visualise associations among physicochemical variables across the sampled sites, revealing distinct relationships between certain FFGs and different sites. The RLQ model we constructed showed that grazers and collector-filterers were predominantly observed in LIS, suggesting their vulnerability to environmental stressors. Conversely, predators and shredders were more prevalent in impacted sites (MIS and HIS), indicating their tolerance to disturbances such as elevated nitrate levels and higher water temperatures. The fourth corner graph highlighted differing responses of FFGs to physicochemical variables, with predators showing positive correlations with several factors but no significant association with phosphate levels. Overall, these findings showed the importance of considering the responses of different FFGs to environmental variables in assessing the health and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

Defining key deprescribing measures from electronic health data: A multisite data harmonization project.

Stopping or reducing risky or unneeded medications ("deprescribing") could improve older adults' health. Electronic health data can support observational and intervention studies of deprescribing, but there are no standardized measures for key variables, and healthcare systems have differing data types and availability. We developed definitions for chronic medication use and discontinuation based on electronic health data and applied them in a case study of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs in five diverse US healthcare systems. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults age 65+ from 2017 to 2019 with chronic benzodiazepine or Z-drug use. We determined whether sites had access to medication orders and/or dispensings. We developed definitions for chronic use and discontinuation using both data types. Discontinuation definitions were based on (1) gaps in medication availability during follow-up or (2) not having medication available at a fixed time point. We examined the impact of varying the gap length and requiring a 30-day period without orders/dispensings ("halo") around the fixed time point. We compared results derived from orders versus dispensings at one site. Approximately 1.6%-2.6% of older adults had chronic benzodiazepine/Z-drug use (total N = 6775, ranging from 431 to 2122 across sites). Depending on the definition and site, the proportion discontinuing use during 12 months ranged from 6% to 49%. Requiring a longer gap or a 30-day "halo" resulted in lower estimates. At one site, only 56% of those with chronic use defined from orders also qualified based on dispensings, and the discontinuation rate at 180 days was 20% from orders versus 32% from dispensings. Requiring a gap of ≥90 days or a "halo" around a time point may more accurately capture discontinuation than using a shorter gap or no halo. Orders data underestimate discontinuation compared to dispensings. Work is needed to adapt these definitions for other drug classes and settings.

Does Chronic Subjective Tinnitus Affect Cognitive Performance In Adults with Hearing Thresholds of 25 dB and Less Between 0.5-4 kHz.

In literature, the cognitive performance results of normal hearing individuals with tinnitus are inconsistent. It also differs in the control of other factors that may affect cognition. This study aimed to determine the differences in attention and memory performance between normal hearing individuals with chronic subjective tinnitus and age-sex-education-matched healthy controls. Normal hearing individuals with subjective chronic tinnitus between 18 and 55 years of age, who have normal cognitive abilities (tinnitus group, n = 30) and age-sex-matched normal hearing individuals without tinnitus who have normal cognitive abilities (control group, n = 30) were included in this study. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test measured participants' general cognitive screening, and depressive symptoms were measured by Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Tinnitus Handicap Inventory was used to determine the tinnitus handicap levels. Attention performance was evaluated with Stroop Test-TBAG Form, and short-term and working memory performances were evaluated with the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R)-Digit Span Test. The tinnitus and control groups' depressive symptom scores were similar concerning the BDI (p = 0.90). There was no statistically significant difference between both groups according to the completion time of the five sections of the Stroop Test, the number of errors and corrections of the Stroop 5 test, and the (WAIS-R)-Digit Span Test scores (p > 0.05). In our study, the Stroop Test and Digit Span Test performances of individuals with tinnitus and normal hearing were similar to the control group. Despite previous studies claiming an effect of tinnitus on cognition, our contrary findings are discussed in the light of other demographic, audiological, and psychological measurement variables, especially hearing loss.

TELEMETRY AS AN IOT TOOL IN VEHICLE FLEET SAFETY MANAGEMENT

Telemetry is one of the main tools of the Internet of Things (IoT) applied to fleet management, enabling geographic tracking, speed measurement, and monitoring of other variables in real time through wireless communication in remote and urban areas. This study aimed to verify the application of this IoT technology in the safety management of vehicle fleets, exploring its contribution to reducing incidents and increasing operational efficiency. Telemetry technology, with data transmission and continuous monitoring, enables managers to make more assertive decisions about the safety of drivers and employees, in addition to optimizing logistics and reducing costs related to fleet operations. The methodology was based on an exploratory and analytical approach, combining a conceptual review of articles and books with a case study applied to a large mining company located in Minas Gerais, in 2018. The results indicated that, after the implementation of the telemetry system, there was a significant reduction in the frequency of speeding and, consequently, in the number of accidents. Furthermore, it was possible to identify patterns of recidivism among drivers, which reinforces the importance of continuous monitoring. It was concluded that telemetry, as an IoT tool, not only contributes to increased safety, but also improves operational efficiency, enabling proactive fleet management and opening opportunities for future research, such as the use of big data for predictive analysis.

Morphometric analyses as a tool for the delimitation of a species complex of rupicolous Cattleya orchids from the Brazilian campos rupestres of Minas Gerais and Bahia

In the present study we perform a linear morphometric analysis to assess species delimitation in Cattleya caulescens, C. pabstii, and C. pfisteri, which constitute a species complex in Brazilian campos rupestres. For this purpose, we collected 18 linear measurement variables from flowers of 153 individuals in 11 populations from the three species in the Brazilian States of Minas Gerais and Bahia. We applied Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Canonical Variate Analysis (CVA) and cluster analysis to assess the morphological variation between populations. The analyses indicated a clear difference and cohese clusters of populations for each species, but one of the populations of C. pfisteri was divergent from the other populations. This difference is putatively explained by genetic data from other studies that suggest introgression from a species from a different series, C. sincorana, in this location. The differences between C. caulescens and C. pabstii reinforce the floristic differentiation of the orchid flora from the quartzitic mountains of Southern Minas Gerais in relation to the Espinhaço range to the north, as well as the development of a specialized orchid flora in the iron ore outcrops in Central Minas Gerais.

Learning reaction-transport coupling from thermal waves

Although thermal waves are ubiquitous in nature and engineering, the development of diagnostic tools capable of elucidating the roles of reaction and transport remains an unmet need. This limits our comprehension of the physics and ability to predict wave dynamics. Here we demonstrate that thermal properties and chemical kinetics can be learned directly from observing thermal wave dynamics, using partial differential equation-constrained optimization. This enables the determination of unobserved reaction rates without the need for a comprehensive measurement of all state variables, given the model space constrained by governing equations. Examples include steady planar waves and unsteady pulsating waves of which dynamics are commonly observed in nature. We show successful learning of thermal properties and chemical kinetics and reconstruction of wave dynamics with the inferred properties, which enables the comprehension of the intricate reaction-transport coupling from thermal data.

Prediction of spirometry outcome in Croatian patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The current study offers an extensive examination of the influence of 29 diverse parameters on spirometry measurement variables in a cohort of 534 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) from five different centers in Croatia. The study elucidates both the magnitude and direction of the effect exerted by the 29 predictors on forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), the ratio FEV1/FVC, and predicted forced expiratory flow at 50% of FVC. Additionally, the development of prediction models for these parameters has been undertaken using several statistical methods. The study identifies fat-free mass index, 6-minute walk distance, predicted diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, arterial partial pressure of oxygen, and both arterial and tissue hemoglobin oxygen saturation percentage as robust positive predictors for all four spirometry parameters. Body mass index is recognized as a weak positive predictor for FEV1 and FEV1/FVC, commonly observed in COPD patients. As expected, smoking years is identified as a strong negative predictor for all four spirometry parameters, while age and illness duration exhibit strong predictive negative associations. Furthermore, modified medical research council, arterial partial pressure carbon dioxide, St George's respiratory questionnaire, COPD assessment test, depression anxiety stress scales, and nutritional risk screening are identified as weak negative predictors. Charlson comorbidity index, phase angle, and number of comorbidities do not exhibit a significant impact on spirometry variables. Ultimately, the performed factorial analysis categorized the 29 parameters into five groups, which were identified as relating to lung function, health status, nutritional status, age, and smoking. Multiple regression analysis, including four newly derived parameters based on the results of factorial analysis, identified nutritional status as a positive predictor for spirometry readings, while smoking, poor health status, and age were identified as negative predictors in successive order.

Putative risk and resiliency factors after an augmented training program for preventing posttraumatic stress injuries among public safety personnel from diverse sectors

ABSTRACT Mental health disorders are particularly prevalent among public safety personnel (PSP). Emotional Resilience Skills Training (ERST) is a cognitive behavioural training program for PSP based on the Unified Protocol for the Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders (i.e. Unified Protocol). The current study was designed to assess whether ERST is associated with reduced putative risk factors for mental disorders and increased individual resilience. The PSP-PTSI Study used a longitudinal prospective sequential experimental cohort design that engaged each participant for approximately 16 months. PSP from diverse sectors (i.e. firefighters, municipal police, paramedics, public safety communicators) completed self-report measures of several putative risk variables (i.e. anxiety sensitivity, fear of negative evaluation, pain anxiety, illness and injury sensitivity, intolerance of uncertainty, state anger) and resilience at three time points: pre-training (n = 191), post-training (n = 103), and 1-year follow-up (n = 41). Participant scores were statistically compared across time points. Participants reported statistically significantly lower scores on all putative risk variables except pain anxiety, and statistically significantly higher resilience from pre- to post-training. Changes were sustained at 1-year follow-up. The results indicate that ERST is associated with reductions in several putative risk variables and improvement in resilience among PSP.

Digital transformation and supply chain concentration: evidence from China

ABSTRACT Excessive supply chain concentration (SCC) introduces various risks, and the factors contributing to SCC are complex and have been rarely explored. This study examines the economic impact of digital transformation on supply chains by analysing data from China’s A-share listed companies (2010–2021) using regression models. The findings demonstrate that digital transformation significantly reduces supply chain concentration and increases the firms’ influence within the supply chain. The mechanism analysis shows that digital transformation makes firms more attractive to suppliers and customers, eases financing constraints, boosts firm reputation, and reduces SCC. The impact is more pronounced in firms facing higher environmental uncertainty or those positioned upstream in the supply chain. Except for blockchain, all five dimensions of digital transformation help to reduce SCC, thereby improving total factor productivity and economic growth. Digital transformation also creates a spillover effect, raising expectations for digital transformation and productivity among suppliers and customers. These findings have significant implications for understanding digital transformation practices and advancing supply chain management. The conclusions remain robust after various tests, including changes to the measures of variables and controls for reverse causality using lagged treatment and instrumental variables.

Forecast Errors and Welfare Conclusions Based on the Flyvbjerg Database

Abstract The so-called Flyvbjerg database is the largest source of data on the performance of major investment projects. It has generated influential analyses of the magnitude of and reasons for cost overruns and demand shortfalls in major projects. Those analyses have demonstrated, among other things, the systematic presence of large forecast errors in both construction costs and in user demand in the first year of operation. They have also linked those results to the social welfare consequences of the underlying projects, suggesting that the large and systematic forecast errors are indicative of welfare destruction. Given how influential those analyses have been, this paper examines the link between the database, empirical analyses thereof, and social benefit–cost analysis (BCA). To that end, both the measurement of variables in the database and the estimation of forecast errors are contrasted against BCA. The conditions for the estimated forecast errors to approximate those obtained from a BCA are spelled out, and the scope for drawing welfare conclusions based on those estimates is discussed. Furthermore, numerical simulations are presented to explore whether the estimated forecast errors do indeed imply likely welfare destruction. The simulations suggest that as large as the forecast errors are, welfare destruction is no foregone conclusion.

Optimized physics-informed neural network for analyzing the radiative-convective thermal performance of an inclined wavy porous fin

The significance of radiation and inclination on the temperature dispersion of the wavy porous fin has been addressed in the present study. Also, the influence of convection and internal heat generation on the thermal dissipation of the inclined wavy porous fin (IWPF) is examined. The pertinent temperature expression of the fin is represented using basic laws, and this equation is reduced to a dimensionless form via dimensionless variables. Additionally, a mix-encoding Genetic algorithm and Particle swarm optimization technique is shown to optimize the network hyperparameters. This resolves the issue of arbitrarily identifying the Physics informed neural networks (PINN's) ideal network and successfully limits local optimization during the training phase. Further, the equation is also resolved numerically using Runge-Kutta Fehlberg's fourth-fifth (RKF-45) scheme, and the solutions are subsequently used to verify the PINN model's applicability. The temperature results estimated by PINN and their associated RKF-45 values correlate excellently, which indicates the accuracy of the applied PINN model. The obtained findings denote that reduced measures of convective-conductive variables stimulate the IWPF's thermal distribution. An inclination angle of the fin has a significant impact on the thermal variation of the IWPF.

Unveiling the Dynamics of Canopy Transpiration: A Novel Model Integrating Stomatal and Aerodynamic Resistance in Semi-Humid Forests

Canopy–atmospheric water vapor output resistance (gs) is a key parameter in researching forest canopy transpiration. It is important for quantifying the water vapor exchange in forest ecosystems. However, the method by which gs is determined has been controversial, and it cannot precisely represent water vapor exchange. This study aimed to develop a model to quantify the water vapor resistance between the canopy and the atmosphere in Platycladus orientalis (P. orientalis) forests using sap flow and meteorological factors monitoring data. The resistance model was constructed using the relationship between canopy stomatal resistance (gc) and aerodynamic resistance (ga) from the mechanism perspective, and sap flow data and measurements of meteorological variables were used to model the stomatal and aerodynamic resistance of the canopy. The results indicate that the canopy-atmospheric water vapor output resistance was closer to the measured values and showed a unimodal curve in the diurnal scale, and this change could provide more accurate measurements of tree transpiration. At the same time, the canopy-atmospheric water vapor output resistance was strongly influenced by wind speed and PAR when 0.2 m/s < u < 0.4 m/s (R2 = 0.871, p < 0.01). The stomatal and aerodynamic resistance were also both strongly influenced by wind speed, with the proposed model achieving a high degree of fit (R2 = 0.949, p < 0.01), providing a new tool for analyzing forest transpiration. This research provides a new perspective and technical reference for clarifying the mechanism of forest canopy water output.

Restoring Form and Function: The Role of Free Dermal Fat Graft (FDFG) in Post-Parotidectomy Reconstruction. A Systematic Review and meta-analysis of expected outcomes and patient satisfaction.

PurposeThis study aims to assess the outcomes of free dermal fat graft (FDFG) reconstruction following parotidectomy, evaluating both clinical complications and patient satisfaction with the procedure. MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA guidelines, searching MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, and the Cochrane Library for studies reporting on FDFG outcomes post-parotidectomy. Eligible studies included single-arm studies with data on recipient and donor site complications as well as patient satisfaction. Pooled complication rates were analyzed using a random-effects model to account for study heterogeneity. ResultsA total of 20 studies, representing 922 reconstructions in 919 patients, were included in the analysis. The overall rates of recipient site complications were low, with hematoma observed in 1.31% (95% CI: 0.50-3.34) and infection in 1.84% (95% CI: 0.95-3.53) of cases. The incidence of Frey's syndrome was 1.95% (95% CI: 0.74-5.02), and fat necrosis was noted in 1.74% (95% CI: 0.57-5.23) of patients. Donor site complications were minimal, with hematoma, infection, and seroma rates each below 1%. While there was high variability in satisfaction measures, results indicated favorable patient satisfaction with FDFG outcomes. ConclusionFDFG reconstruction following parotidectomy is a safe and effective method for correcting contour deformities, showing minimal complications and high patient satisfaction. The low incidence of complications, including Frey's syndrome, underscores FDFG as a viable option for facial contour restoration in parotid surgery, providing favorable aesthetic and functional outcomes.

An Enhanced Affective Computing Technology for Fostering an Emotionally Healthy Workplace

The mental health of workers is of paramount importance in today’s fast-paced and demanding workplaces. This research establishes a strong connection between affective decision-making and mental health, presenting a novel method to improve affective computing technologies for developing emotionally healthy workplaces. We use Multinomial Naive Bayes Integrated Gated Recurrent Units (MNB-GRU) for classification and prediction to reach our goals. This dataset includes many measures of mental health, working climate, and individual variables. Data Exploration is performed to learn more about the properties of the dataset, and Preprocessing Grouping is used to get the data ready for analysis. Relationships between emotional decisionmaking and mental health markers are shown using data visualization approaches to give intuitive insights. To evaluate the reliability of the connection, a correlation analysis is used in Model Assessment. Understanding how people are feeling emotionally at work can be gained via this assessment, which examines the degree of association between affective decision-making and mental health. As a result of using categorization methods to divide the workforce into several categories based on their emotional well-being, we can better assist businesses in meeting the varying demands of their staff members. This method guarantees that efforts to improve mental health are focused and productive. By creating a solid connection between effective decisionmaking and mental health, businesses can take preventative measures to aid their workers' emotional well-being and create a more upbeat and productive workplace.

The Seasonal Patterns of Hydrographic and Biogeochemical Variables in the Ross Sea: A BGC-Argo Analysis

Seasonal patterns in seasonally frozen waters have usually been derived from composites of analyses conducted in different years and largely have been confined to ice-free periods. We present the first continuous measurements of hydrographic and biogeochemical variables collected over an entire year by Biogeochemical-Argo (BGC-Argo) profiling floats on the continental shelf of the Ross Sea. Analyses were divided into two periods: autumn/winter and spring/summer. Mixed layers increased rapidly upon ice cover, and nitrate, oxygen, and dissolved inorganic carbon vertical distributions were strongly influenced by this deeper mixing. Rates of nitrification in autumn were substantial and similar to rates measured in other areas of the ocean. Organic carbon disappearance was also most rapid in March. Changes in all variables slowed considerably after May. The largest mixed layer depths occurred at the southern floats and reached 400 - 500 m. Spring/summer patterns were similar to those observed during individual cruises, with rapid nitrate removal beginning in November, continuing through early January, but ceasing during austral summer. The most rapid accumulations of chlorophyll occurred prior to complete ice retreat. Substantial spatial differences were noted that were likely related to both mixed layer depths and phytoplankton composition. Particulate matter accumulated throughout the summer below 100 m, although the rates of change suggested substantial remineralization in the water column. The temporal patterns observed show the importance of relatively short periods that markedly influence the vertical distribution of biogeochemical parameters.