Applications of circular regression models are ubiquitous in many disciplines, particularly in meteorology, biology and geology. In circular regression models, variable selection problem continues to be a remarkable open question. In this paper, we address variable selection in linear-circular regression models where uni-variate linear dependent and a mixed set of circular and linear independent variables constitute the data set. We consider Bayesian lasso which is a popular choice for variable selection in classical linear regression models. We show that Bayesian lasso in linear-circular regression models is not able to produce robust inference as the coefficient estimates are sensitive to the choice of hyper-prior setting for the tuning parameter. To eradicate the problem, we propose a robustified Bayesian lasso that is based on an empirical Bayes (EB) type methodology to construct a hyper-prior for the tuning parameter while using Gibbs Sampling. This hyper-prior construction is computationally more feasible than the hyper-priors that are based on correlation measures. We show in a comprehensive simulation study that Bayesian lasso with EB-GS hyper-prior leads to a more robust inference. Overall, the method offers an efficient Bayesian lasso for variable selection in linear-circular regression while reducing model complexity.

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between fine motor skills and cognitive development in preterm and term toddlers aged 12–15 months.Methods: A total of 150 participants, 79 preterm, and 71 term toddlers, were assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley‐III), for cognitive development and the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales, Second Edition (PDMS‐2), for fine motor skills. The relationship between fine motor skills and cognitive development was examined with the lasso regression model.Results: The study revealed that fine motor skills, particularly grasping, significantly influence cognitive development, with preterm toddlers demonstrating lower scores compared to term peers. Additionally, prenatal and perinatal factors, including gestational age and birth weight, were found to correlate with cognitive outcomes.Conclusions: These findings emphasize the importance of integrating motor skill‐based interventions into early childhood programs to enhance cognitive and overall developmental outcomes. Future research should explore the causal mechanisms underlying this relationship.

Background: Individuals with generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) often exhibit altered sensorimotor control, which may contribute to balance and proprioception deficits. This study investigated the effects of sensory training applied to the plantar surface on sensorimotor organization components, including light touch, vibration, two-point discrimination, proprioception, muscle strength, and balance, in individuals with GJH. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 65 asymptomatic individuals aged 18–25 years with a Beighton score of 5 or higher. The participants were randomly assigned to either the treatment (n = 32) or control (n = 33) group. The treatment group was given a 2-week home program that included plantar sensory training and an informative brochure on healthy foot care; the control group was given only the brochure. Light touch, two-point discrimination, vibration sense, proprioception, muscle strength, and balance parameters were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Compared to the control group, the treatment group demonstrated significant improvements in light touch (p < 0.01), two-point discrimination (p < 0.01), vibration sense (p < 0.01), and proprioceptive accuracy (p < 0.01). Balance performance improved markedly in the posterolateral direction (+8.3 cm, p < 0.01), while anterior and posteromedial directions showed moderate but nonsignificant gains. Muscle strength showed no statistically significant changes across groups (p > 0.05). The control group exhibited no meaningful pre-post changes. Conclusions: Sensory training directed at the plantar surface results in positive changes in various components of sensorimotor organization in individuals with GJH.