Resilience Improvement Research Articles

Assessing the Impact of Leadership Training Programs

Leadership training programs play a crucial role in developing the skills necessary for effective leadership within organizations, communities, and educational settings. This paper examines the diverse formats of leadership training and explores methods for evaluating their impact. A mixed-methods approach involving quantitative and qualitative techniques highlights the importance of aligning training objectives with organizational needs. Key findings from case studies reveal significant improvements in interpersonal skills, resilience, and empowerment among participants. However, the evaluation of leadership programs faces challenges such as reliance on self-assessments and narrowly focused tools. Recommendations emphasize the importance of tailored, evidence-based approaches, stakeholder engagement, and continuous evaluation. Finally, future directions include exploring the role of technology in remote leadership development and adapting training to changing societal needs. Keywords: Leadership Training, Program Evaluation, Organizational Development, Emotional Intelligence, Self-awareness.

Long-Term in vivo Observation of Maize Leaf Xylem Embolism, Transpiration and Photosynthesis During Drought and Recovery.

Plant water transport is essential to maintain turgor, photosynthesis and growth. Water is transported in a metastable state under large negative pressures, which can result in embolism, that is, the loss of function by the replacement of liquid xylem sap with gas, as a consequence of water stress. To avoid experimental artefacts, we used an optical vulnerability system to quantify embolism occurrence across six fully expanded maize leaves to characterize the sequence of physiological responses (photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence, whole-plant transpiration and leaf inter-vein distance) in relation to declining water availability and leaf embolism during severe water stress. Additionally, we characterize the recovery of leaf function in the presence of sustained embolism during a 6-day recovery period. Embolism formation occurred after other physiological processes were substantially depressed and were irreversible upon rewatering. Recovery of transpiration, net CO2 assimilation and photosystem II efficiency were aligned with the severity of embolism, whereas these traits returned to near pre-stress levels in the absence of embolism. A better understanding of the relationships between embolism occurrence and downstream physiological processes during stress and recovery is critical for the improvement of crop productivity and resilience.

Process Systems Engineering for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: A Framework for Vulnerability Assessment and Optimization

This study explores the application of Process Systems Engineering (PSE) methodologies to enhance the climate resilience of infrastructure systems. As climate change increasingly challenges infrastructure, traditional designs often fail to address evolving long-term risks, leading to system vulnerabilities. PSE techniques, including vulnerability assessments, optimization models, sensitivity analysis, and scenario planning, offer a structured approach to identify weaknesses, assess adaptation strategies, and inform decision-making for climate-resilient infrastructure. Through a synthesis of existing research and case studies from energy, transportation, and water sectors, this study highlights the effectiveness of PSE methods in quantifying infrastructure vulnerabilities under various climate projections. Key findings show that investing in adaptive measures, such as upgrading energy storage systems and flood prevention infrastructure, provides long-term cost savings and resilience improvements. Despite challenges like data gaps and high uncertainty, the study demonstrates that PSE frameworks can significantly improve infrastructure design and planning, helping decision-makers develop strategies that are both cost-effective and adaptive to climate change.

Can a brief guided nature walk reduce distress and improve resilience, mindful attention, and sleep quality? Evidence from a pilot study with two-week follow-up

ABSTRACT Despite trends of deteriorating mental health globally, help-seeking remains suboptimal. Identifying less stigmatising, low-cost, and scalable approaches to mental health care is critical. We investigated the acceptability and psychological benefits of a 30-minute guided nature walk programme in an accessible country park in Hong Kong among 100 community members. In a subgroup of 55 participants, we further examined its influences on psychological distress, resilience, mindful attention, and sleep quality after two weeks. Most participants felt more connected with nature (88%) and could apply the skills to their everyday lives (81%). Significant improvements in affect and distress symptoms were found, even when accounting for age, resilience, prior nature walk experience, and practice frequency at follow-up. Improvements in resilience, mindful attention, and sleep quality were also observed. These findings offer preliminary evidence of the positive effects of brief nature walks on well-being. Increasing accessibility to green space and nature-based interventions is highlighted.

Impact of digital greening synergistic transformation on urban economic resilience in China: Evidence from quasi-natural experiments

Digital greening synergistic transformation (DGST) has emerged as a crucial driver of high-quality economic development, notably enhancing urban economic resilience. This paper examines panel data from 280 Chinese cities (2008–2021) by performing quasi-natural experiments from the ‘Broadband China’ and ‘Low-Carbon Cities’ pilot initiatives and employing a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) approach. The main findings are as follows. (1) DGST notably enhances urban economic resilience, showing stronger effects than standalone pilot projects. (2) DGST strengthens economic resilience by enhancing defence, adaptation and learning capacities through labour absorption, industrial structure optimisation and green technology innovation. (3) The effect of DGST on economic resilience is influenced by factors such as human capital, financial resources and infrastructure, with cities possessing greater resources deriving more substantial benefits. (4) Cities that implemented ‘Low-Carbon Cities’ prior to ‘Broadband China’ experienced more pronounced improvements in economic resilience. This paper underscores the synergy between digital and green policies in strengthening economic resilience and provides recommendations to advance DGST and strengthen urban economies.

Resilience-oriented passenger subsidy design for taxi travel under pandemic control

Summarizing historical pandemic control experience can help the government better cope with the impact of uncertain public health events on taxi industry. This paper presents a summary of the relationship between various pandemic control measures and taxi system from the perspective of travel resilience. Additionally, we investigate the effectiveness of passenger subsidy schemes in improving the taxi travel resilience. To achieve these objectives, our research follows these steps: Firstly, we analyze the impact of different pandemic control measures on the performance variation curves of the taxi travel system. Secondly, using the travel resilience calculation formula, we evaluate the taxi travel resilience levels under different pandemic control measures and analyze other factors (such as virus characteristics) on taxi travel resilience through regression models. Finally, we construct a taxi travel resilience improvement model. Aiming at maximizing the social benefits which consider taxi travel resilience, we search for the optimal passenger subsidy result. And then make a comparison for two distinct subsidy types: fixed-amount and fare subsidy rate. Taking Ningbo city, China as a case study, the research findings demonstrate: (1) The ranking order of each pandemic control measure based on taxi travel resilience performance from low to high are as follows: city-wide lockdown control measure, district-wide lockdown control measure, targeted epidemic control measure, and fully lifted control measure. These findings suggest that a reduction in the scope and duration of pandemic control measures can maintain a high level of taxi travel resilience. (2) In addition to pandemic control measures, the virus’s incubation period and infectivity have a significant impact on travel resilience. (3) Model results show that increasing passenger subsidies can quickly improve taxi travel resilience, but it cannot guarantee a consistent increase in social benefits. When the weight of travel resilience in the objective function is small, social benefits will initially increase and then decrease with higher passenger subsidy amounts. In such cases, the extreme value method can help determine the optimal passenger subsidy amount. (4) When decision-makers focus on improving taxi travel resilience, they can adopt the fixed amount subsidy scheme. When the focus is on maximizing social benefits, the fare subsidy rate scheme should be chosen.

Ketogenic diet in psychiatry: application in treating depression among athletes

Depression is a prevalent mental health challenge, particularly in athletes, where the interplay of high-performance demands, physical stress, and injury exacerbates psychological vulnerabilities. Emerging evidence suggests that the ketogenic diet (KD), a high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carbohydrate dietary intervention, holds therapeutic potential for managing depression. KD induces ketosis, a metabolic state that enhances brain energy metabolism, reduces neuroinflammation, and stabilizes neurotransmitter function, all of which are implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. This review synthesizes findings from recent clinical trials, meta-analyses, and case studies focusing on KD's neurological and psychological effects. The results indicate significant improvements in depressive symptoms, mood stabilization, and mental resilience among individuals adhering to KD. Moreover, KD’s modulation of the gut-brain axis introduces an additional pathway for improving mental health by fostering a diverse gut microbiome and reducing systemic inflammation. For athletes, KD offers dual benefits: alleviating depressive symptoms while supporting cognitive function and recovery. However, adherence to the diet and potential side effects such as fatigue and gastrointestinal discomfort pose challenges. Current research is limited by a lack of large-scale, randomized controlled trials specifically targeting athletic populations. In conclusion, KD demonstrates promise as an adjunctive therapy for depression in athletes. Its multifaceted effects on brain health and performance metrics underscore its potential role in sports psychiatry. Further research is necessary to optimize KD protocols and establish evidence-based guidelines for its clinical application in athletic populations.

Seamless Learning to Enhancing Resilience and Professional Ethics in Higher Education Students

This research explores the impact of seamless learning on resilience and professional ethics among polytechnic students by integrating the Transdisciplinary Learning Approach with the Aptitude Treatment Interaction (ATI) Model. The study employs a quasi-experimental design with a sample of 100 students, utilizing SMART Poltekad. This seamless learning platform facilitates experiences through its interactive features. Seamless learning, characterized by continuous, cross-context learning experiences, supports a cohesive and adaptive learning environment that fosters holistic student development. Using Two-Way MANOVA analysis, findings reveal significant improvements in academic achievement (ρ = 0.000, ρ < 0.05), resilience (ρ = 0.000, ρ < 0.05), and professional ethics (ρ = 0.000, ρ < 0.05) in students exposed to the ATI and Transdisciplinary models compared to a control group. Learning motivation, however, did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference (ρ = 0.052, ρ > 0.05), suggesting context-dependent factors may influence motivation within the seamless learning framework. These findings underscore the potential of seamless learning, particularly when paired with seamless learning tools, to enhance resilience and professional ethics in polytechnic education. Future research could further explore the applicability of seamless learning models in diverse educational settings and examine long-term impacts on students’ professional and ethical development.

Effect and Mechanism of an ACT-Based Psychological Resilience Intervention Targeting Students Failing in Postgraduate Entrance Examinations in China: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The postgraduate entrance examination frenzy is a widespread and intense phenomenon in China. As the number of students who failed the examination surged, the ensuing mental health problems became prominent. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an online ACT-based group resilience course, which incorporated the six core components of ACT and integrated elements of Chinese culture, in alleviating psychological distress among students who failed the examination. It also explored the mechanism by which the intervention affected changes in psychological distress. A total of 61 participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 31) and the control group (n = 30). They attended an 8-day group course, with 2-h sessions each day. The study outcomes were psychological distress, resilience, psychological flexibility (PF), and psychological inflexibility (PI). These outcomes were measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up. Linear mixed models (LMMs) showed significant group × time interactions for all outcome variables, except for stress, which showed a marginally significant interaction. Post hoc analyses revealed significant improvements in depression, resilience, and PF at both post-intervention and at the 1-month follow-up. Additionally, significant reductions in anxiety and a marginally significant reduction in stress were observed at the 1-month follow-up. However, no significant reduction was found in PI. The multiple mediation model showed that the intervention improved psychological distress by increasing resilience and PF. These findings suggest that online resilience group intervention is generally effective in enhancing resilience and alleviating psychological distress and is acceptable to students who have failed the postgraduate entrance examination, as evidenced by high participant engagement and satisfaction.

Analysis of Roadside Land Use Changes and Landscape Ecological Risk Assessment Based on GF-1: A Case Study of the Linghua Expressway

The rapid construction of expressways in China has brought significant economic and social benefits, but it has also imposed substantial ecological pressures, particularly in sensitive regions. Landscape ecological risk assessment, as an important means to predict and measure the adverse effects of human activities on the ecological environment, is being paid more and more attention. However, most studies focus on the static landscape mosaic pattern and lack dynamic analysis. Moreover, they mainly focus on the ecological effect of the road operation stage, ignoring the monitoring and analysis of the whole construction process. Based on this, the current study examines the landscape ecological risk and land use changes along the Linghua Expressway in Gansu Province using high-resolution GF-1 remote sensing imagery. A landscape ecological risk assessment (LERA) model was employed to quantify the land use changes and assess the ecological risks before and after the expressway construction between 2018 and 2022. The results revealed a decrease in cropland and forest land, accompanied by an increase in the grassland and road areas. The landscape ecological risk index decreased from 0.318 in 2018 to 0.174 in 2022, indicating an improvement in ecological resilience. However, high-risk zones remain near the expressway, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and proactive ecological management strategies. These findings contribute to sustainable infrastructure planning, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions.

Reinforcement of arch structures under blast loads: a sustainable approach to structural enhancement

ABSTRACT This study investigates the effectiveness of strengthening masonry arch bridges using steel rebars embedded within the arch structure to enhance their blast resistance. A comprehensive numerical analysis is conducted using Abaqus software, where a VUMAT code is developed to accurately model the nonlinear behavior of materials. The analysis is complemented by comparing the behavior of strengthened and un-strengthened arches subjected to shock waves. Results demonstrate an improvement in the structural resilience of the reinforced arches, including reduced deformation, increased load-bearing capacity, and delayed failure mechanisms under high-intensity blasts. The findings offer practical insights for the preservation and fortification of masonry arch bridges, providing a reliable solution for enhancing their durability in the face of modern threats.

Gynecological Cancer - Body Image & Self Esteem – What Can Public and Health Care Providers Do

This paper supports developments in the treatment of gynecological cancer, incorporating parameters of psychological health together with medical techniques. Understanding such influence on body image and self-esteem lets healthcare professionals help individual patients according to their needs. It contributes to building resilience and improves the quality of life. The article focuses on the importance of a holistic approach to the patients by looking at the impact of gynecological cancer on psychological well-being and self-perception. It demonstrates how much self-esteem and body image affect overall human health in the context of medical procedures involving a person's physical appearance. Psychological and emotional effects of changes upon cancer, such as hair loss and scars, are also discussed in the context of the need for patient-centered care. It embraces a concurrent use of psychological aspects in health care and acknowledgment of cultural factors by health caregivers. Anxiety increases, and quality of life reduces side by side with body image and self-esteem. Some interventions may be employed to improve patient education, ensure the environment is supportive, and encourage patient self-care. Thus, the paper combines medical and psychological models of health with medical solutions to address gynecological cancer holistically, with attention to medical treatment and improvement of resilience and a better quality of life.

The digital twin of complex shipboard DC microgrids: The high‐performing synergy of compiled models and HIL platform in the dynamics emulation of zonal power electronic power distribution systems

AbstractNowadays, resilience is a crucial attribute to be pursued in advanced shipboard DC microgrids. When the power distribution is zonal, the presence of autonomous‐controlled converters guarantees both power use and resiliency improvement. The adoption of bidirectional controlled devices ensures power routing among generating units, storage, and loads. Moreover, zonal electrical distribution systems are effective in applying the optimization algorithms for green, safe, and high‐performing ship operation. In zonal DC microgrids, real‐time cooperation among controlled converters through properly set communication protocols enables the ship mission achievement. To this aim, functional tests are to be done on such complex power infrastructure. The digital twin approach provides the de‐risking step before the onboard deployment for controlled systems and communication. A zonal DC shipboard microgrid is the case study to test the synergy between compiled models and power converters on two hardware in the loop platforms, then verified by experiment in this paper. The first platform exploits the Linux real time application interface on the average value models of converters. This solution is then compared with a platform that utilizes the Typhoon hardware in the loop environment, proposing a combination of average value models and detailed switching models for the real‐time emulation of controlled grid.

Alternate nostril breathing (Nadi-Shodhana Pranayama) and its impact on perceived stress and hearing threshold among medical students; a prospective study

Background: Medical students often experience significant psychological stress, which can negatively impact their academic performance, cognitive functions, and overall well-being. Psychological/emotional stress can also affect hearing if severe or if it lasts long enough. Amongst stress reduction strategies, meditation techniques are found to be helpful. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effect of alternate nostril breathing (Nadi-Shodhana Pranayama) on perceived stress and auditory thresholds (AT) among medical students. Materials and Methods: Following institutional ethics committee approval, a sample of 60 consenting students aged 18–26 years participated in a 3-month intervention, where they practiced pranayama for 15–20 min, 5 days a week. Baseline and post-intervention data were collected using the perceived stress scale (PSS) and pure tone audiometry. Results: The results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in PSS scores (P<0.001), indicating decreased stress levels. In addition, ATs in both ears improved, with a more pronounced change observed in the left ear (P<0.001). These findings suggest that pranayama not only reduces psychological stress but also enhances auditory perception, possibly through the regulation of stress hormones and improved inner ear functioning. Conclusion: The study supports the use of pranayama as a simple, non-invasive intervention to reduce stress which tends to improve cognitive performance in medical students, contributing to better academic outcomes and overall well-being. Further research is warranted to explore long-term benefits and potential mechanisms behind the observed improvements in auditory function and stress resilience.

Influence of extreme temperatures on the lifespan of power transformers and cables in Benin’s electricity distribution network by 2035-2050: innovative approach for sustainable improvement of resilience

Influence of extreme temperatures on the lifespan of power transformers and cables in Benin’s electricity distribution network by 2035-2050: innovative approach for sustainable improvement of resilience

Support initiatives by agricultural cooperatives in facilitating women's recovery from the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic in Kajiado county

This study investigated the impact of healthcare interventions by agricultural cooperatives on women's recovery during the post-COVID-19 period in Kajiado County, Kenya. It explored how agricultural cooperatives address women's recovery in the post-COVID-19 period in Kajiado County. It examined support initiatives for women's recovery, internal healthcare mechanisms targeting women, and cooperative-led interventions in post-COVID-19 recovery. Supported by Social Capital Theory and Empowerment theory, the study focused on Kajiado County. Kajiado County was selected for its cultural diversity and economic activities. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the study included a sample size of 373 respondents, members of agricultural cooperatives. The qualitative phase involved interviews and focus groups, while the quantitative data was collected using structured questionnaires. This study employed a combination of stratified random sampling and purposive sampling. Findings were presented through tables, aiming to inform government regulators in policy formulation. The study concluded that women have largely positive perceptions of the healthcare interventions offered by agricultural cooperatives. The findings also suggested a strong positive correlation between women's experiences with healthcare initiatives and their recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The study further concluded that logistical and cultural barriers remain significant obstacles to women's access to healthcare services provided by agricultural cooperatives. Recommending that agricultural cooperatives must develop and implement robust communication strategies to bridge the gap between awareness and actual engagement in healthcare programs for women. The study encourages policymakers to work alongside cooperatives to broaden these programs, create accessible healthcare models that consider rural challenges, and overcome existing logistical and cultural obstacles. By building such collaborative frameworks, these efforts can enhance women’s resilience, support sustainable recovery, and contribute to enduring improvements in community health and economic resilience in rural areas.

Research on monitoring college students’ sports psychological stress response and ideological and political education intervention based on biosensors

The current study aims to find out the psychosocial stress reactions of college students involved in sports and assess the impact of ideological and political education (I&PE) treatment based on the biosensor. Thus, we plan to use the biosensors including the heart rate monitors and the skin conductance devices to define the level of physiological stress in physical activities. The study also evaluates the extent to which the organizationally developed I&PE program effectively reduces psychological stressor by promoting resilience improvement, ideological awareness, and community support. This makes the research investigate the correlation between biosensor-based performance data on sports, stress and impressions of I&PE together with non-quantitative participants’ feedback. The outcomes of the study will identify stress management among college sports with potential biosensor use in educational contexts. This study fosters the sciences of sports psychology, interventional education, and mental health with a view of developing an all-inclusive student well-being framework.

Marine economic network in China’s coastal regions: static characteristics and resilience under attacks

ABSTRACT China’s marine economy exhibits clear complex network characteristics. Given the pressure from internal and external uncertainties, understanding the characteristics of a marine economic complex network and enhancing its resilience are crucial for promoting high-quality development. After marine economic networks are constructed for three coastal regions (the Bohai Rim, Yangtze River Delta, and Pearl River Delta), four key dimensions are analysed to delineate the static features. Subsequently, two types of attacks are simulated to assess connectivity and integrity. The results show a low degree of interdependence in the three major coastal economic circles, leading to slow network recovery. The Bohai Rim demonstrates the highest transmissibility, while the Yangtze River Delta shows a superior correlation feature. Both the Pearl and Yangtze River Deltas exhibit high levels of hierarchy, characterized by strong core groups. Compared with random attacks, targeted attacks are far more damaging to the resilience of China’s marine economic network. Fortunately, since 2012, the number of nodes that must be attacked to completely disrupt the network has increased, indicating a steady improvement in core network resilience. These conclusions offer valuable insights into ensuring the stable, efficient, and rapid development of China’s marine economy.

The effectiveness of a resilience program on reducing social anxiety among peer victimized Jordanian adolescents: a quasi-experimental pilot study

Purpose This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a resilience-building program in reducing social anxiety among victimized adolescents and examining the mediating role of resilience in the relationship between peer victimization and social anxiety. Design/methodology/approach A nonequivalent control group pre-post quasi-experimental design was used, with participants divided into an intervention group receiving resilience training and a wait-list control group. This study involved Jordanian adolescents who had experienced peer victimization and reported elevated social anxiety symptoms. The intervention utilized the Youth Resilience Program, a nonclinical psychosocial method. Findings A total of 137 participants completed the study, with no significant baseline differences between the intervention and control groups in resilience, social anxiety or peer victimization scores. The intervention group showed significant improvements in resilience and reductions in social anxiety and peer victimization compared to the control group. Resilience partially mediated the relationship between peer victimization and social anxiety, indicating that higher resilience reduced the impact of victimization on social anxiety, although victimization still had a direct effect on social anxiety. Research limitations/implications The resilience-building program was effective in enhancing resilience and reducing social anxiety among victimized adolescents. However, while resilience reduced the impact of victimization, it did not entirely eliminate the anxiety associated with victimization, indicating the need for comprehensive interventions that address both resilience and other factors contributing to social anxiety. This study contributes to the understanding of the complex interplay between peer victimization, social anxiety and resilience in Arab adolescents and underscores the importance of culturally sensitive interventions in promoting adolescent mental health. Originality/value Within the Arab Jordanian context, the intricate relationship between social anxiety and peer victimization is profoundly influenced by the unique sociocultural factors and family dynamics of the Arab societies, which often place a strong emphasis on collectivism and conformity (Obeidat et al., 2012). Arab families often expect their children to adhere to societal norms and maintain harmonious relationships within the family and community. This emphasis on conformity can intensify social anxiety among adolescents, as the fear of deviating from the expected norms and bringing shame to the family can be overwhelming. However, the scenarios are grounded in hypotheses derived from prior Arab research examining various related variables. It is important to note that existing evidence regarding the role of adolescent resilience in shaping the relationship between peer victimization and social anxiety primarily stems from Western literature, using Western samples. No studies have yet investigated how these factors interact and influence one another among Arab adolescents.

Improved Generalizability in Medical Computer Vision: Hyperbolic Deep Learning in Multi-Modality Neuroimaging.

Deep learning has shown significant value in automating radiological diagnostics but can be limited by a lack of generalizability to external datasets. Leveraging the geometric principles of non-Euclidean space, certain geometric deep learning approaches may offer an alternative means of improving model generalizability. This study investigates the potential advantages of hyperbolic convolutional neural networks (HCNNs) over traditional convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in neuroimaging tasks. We conducted a comparative analysis of HCNNs and CNNs across various medical imaging modalities and diseases, with a focus on a compiled multi-modality neuroimaging dataset. The models were assessed for their performance parity, robustness to adversarial attacks, semantic organization of embedding spaces, and generalizability. Zero-shot evaluations were also performed with ischemic stroke non-contrast CT images. HCNNs matched CNNs' performance in less complex settings and demonstrated superior semantic organization and robustness to adversarial attacks. While HCNNs equaled CNNs in out-of-sample datasets identifying Alzheimer's disease, in zero-shot evaluations, HCNNs outperformed CNNs and radiologists. HCNNs deliver enhanced robustness and organization in neuroimaging data. This likely underlies why, while HCNNs perform similarly to CNNs with respect to in-sample tasks, they confer improved generalizability. Nevertheless, HCNNs encounter efficiency and performance challenges with larger, complex datasets. These limitations underline the need for further optimization of HCNN architectures. HCNNs present promising improvements in generalizability and resilience for medical imaging applications, particularly in neuroimaging. Despite facing challenges with larger datasets, HCNNs enhance performance under adversarial conditions and offer better semantic organization, suggesting valuable potential in generalizable deep learning models in medical imaging and neuroimaging diagnostics.