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Purpose: The abundance of data in football presents both opportunities and challenges for decision making. Consequently, this review has 2 primary objectives: first, to provide practitioners with a concise overview of the characteristics of machine-learning (ML) analysis, and, second, to conduct a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis regarding the implementation of ML techniques in professional football clubs. This review explains the difference between artificial intelligence and ML and the difference between ML and statistical analysis. Moreover, we summarize and explain the characteristics of ML learning approaches, such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. Finally, we present an example of a SWOT analysis that suggests some actions to be considered in applying ML techniques by medical and sport science staff working in football. Specifically, 4 dimensions are presented: the use of strengths to create opportunities and make the most of them, the use of strengths to avoid threats, working on weaknesses to take advantage of opportunities, and upgrading weaknesses to avoid threats. Conclusion: ML analysis can be an invaluable tool for football clubs and sport-science and medical departments due to its ability to analyze vast amounts of data and extract meaningful insights. Moreover, ML can enhance performance by assessing the risk of injury, physiological parameters, and physical fitness, as well as optimizing training, recommending strategies based on opponent analysis, and identifying talent and assessing player suitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The global emphasis on medical education quality has established accreditation as a crucial evaluation method. Iran has implemented systematic institutional and program accreditation in medical universities over the past decade. This study analyzes the strengths and implementation challenges of educational accreditation from the perspective of field experts. Methods: We conducted a qualitative content analysis study, engaging accreditation experts selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were employed to gather expert opinions on the strengths and challenges of implementing educational accreditation in Iran. The resulting data underwent inductive content analysis to distill key themes and insights. Results: Analysis of the interviews yielded 140 primary codes, which were organized into two main themes and six categories. The first theme, "the Pillars of the Accreditation System," encompassed four main categories: accreditation standards, accreditation structure, accreditation evaluators, and accreditation outcomes. The second theme, "Improvement in Conducting Accreditation," comprised two main categories: improving the structure and improving the implementation process. While accreditation efforts have improved institutional adherence to basic quality standards, challenges such as excessive governmental control and the approval of underperforming institutions raise concerns about the credibility of the process. Conclusion: The efforts of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education in implementing accreditation have guided programs and institutions towards achieving minimum quality assurance standards. Structural issues within Iran's accreditation framework, such as governmental control over the accreditation process and the consideration of multiple factors in accreditation decisions, have led to some concerns. One of these concerns is approving underperforming institutions and programs which has raised some questions about quality and necessity of the accreditation process itself. It is hoped that in the near future, the Ministry of Health and Medical Education will devise and implement strategies to enhance the current system, paving the way for a more robust and effective accreditation process in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substance use treatment is aimed at improving the well-being of the receiving clients. Given the clinician–client interactions inherent in treatment, understanding clinician influence on treatment outcomes is important. Utilizing clinical data mining, we used existing data from the clinical files of 444 clients who received substance use day treatment. Using multinomial logistic regression and linear regression, we examined whether and which client strengths and weaknesses perceived and recorded by clinicians during a client's assessment predict client engagement and treatment completion. The results showed that willingness to seek treatment and outside support increased the likelihood of completing treatment, while financial support decreased it. We also found that clinician perceptions of a client's inability to benefit from treatment predicted low levels of engagement in treatment. We then discuss implications for social work of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Family is an important protective factor for Latine immigrants. However, with most of the existing research focusing on overall family relationships, there is a knowledge gap about Latine couples and how their dyadic strengths may also be helpful in the face of immigration-related stressors. Using a Relational Cultural Theory framework, we conducted 16 semistructured interviews to qualitatively examine how eight Latine immigrant couples perceived their relationships positively impacted their immigration experiences. After analyzing over 20 hours of data, five themes emerged: (1) mutual support to overcome challenges and reach goals, (2) open communication based on respect, (3) working together as a team, (4) acceptance and admiration for each other, and (5) loving and being loved as a resource. Findings confirm the presence of significant relational strengths that can be leveraged in the management of immigration-related stressors. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the current study is to produce metal matrix composites (MMCs) using ultrasonic‐assisted stir casting and Al6061 alloy reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) microparticle reinforcement in weight percentages of 0, 2, 4, and 6. The microstructural alterations of Al6061–SiC composites are investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDAX). By adding more nucleation sites for the formation of smaller grains, SiC reinforcement of the Al6061 matrix encourages grain refining. The SiC addition significantly changes the microstructure of Al6061 composites, enhancing their mechanical qualities. In addition to increasing density by 0.6%, hardness by 33%, and tensile strength by 33%. The increased SiC content dramatically decreases elongation by 42%. The strength of Al6061–SiC MMCs is predicted using several strengthening mechanism concepts as part of the continuing investigation. For Al6061–SiC composites, the strengthening contribution from thermal mismatch is more significant than that from Orowan strengthening, Hall–Petch mechanism, and load transmitting effect. Grain refinement interactions, load transmission mechanisms, and the strengthening effects of CTE differences and dislocations between matrix and reinforcement particles are studied. The composite with 6‐weight percent SiC reinforcement performs better in dry sliding wear and corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology offers significant advantages in manufacturing complex‐shaped titanium alloy components. Traditional scanning strategies, such as zigzag and island scanning, however, often fall short in fabricating parts with variable cross sections. To enhance the forming quality of components featuring combined thin‐walled and bulk structures, a composite scanning strategy is proposed that adapts to the local characteristics of parts. This novel approach is designed to employ both island and zigzag scanning within the same deposition layer, aiming to optimize the balance between porosity and stress distribution. Notably, with a feature transition distance of 4 mm and a scan line offset of 0.67 mm, the specimens achieve a tensile strength of 1311.0 MPa, a yield strength of 1103.0 MPa, and an elongation of 8.8%. This strategy leads to the optimization of defects and a transition in microstructure for combined structural features. These promising outcomes lay the foundation for the intelligent allocation of scanning strategies and the high‐quality formation of complex‐shaped, high‐strength titanium alloy parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The objective of this study was to identify adolescents with psychosocial problems who are currently attending mainstream schools but have not yet been recognized by existing support systems, such as school counsellors or the healthcare system. A sample of 130 students, aged 13 to 15 years, was randomly selected from a school located in a semi-urban area. These students were screened using the self-rating version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ-S). The findings of the study indicated that 6 percent of the total student sample reported experiencing significant difficulties in psychosocial adjustment when assessed through self-rating. Among these students, 5 percent were found to have notable emotional difficulties, 9 percent had significant conduct problems, 6 percent exhibited considerable hyperactivity, and 9 percent faced substantial challenges in peer relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale Young homeless people (YHP) often go unnoticed in educational settings resulting in missed opportunities for support. There is limited research involving YHP's lived educational experiences. Aim(s) This systematic review sought to explore YHP's experience of education, acknowledging their vulnerabilities, and identifying the strengths and resources which support their engagement with education. Method: Following five data base searches, seven papers (published between 2011 and 2023) were included in the final synthesis which met eligibility criteria. They were assessed for methodological quality and appropriateness of focus. Findings The review found YHP had the following strengths which supported them in education: narrative transformation of their experience of homelessness, personal attributes – intrinsic motivation, goals and aspirations, and positive relationships with family, peers, and educational professionals. The YHP's vulnerabilities in education included: the practical challenges of homelessness – frequent mobility and unmet basic needs, public perceptions of homelessness and systemic barriers, which often disrupted their education. Limitations The review was a small-scale qualitative review which limits its generalisability, although it highlights the need for further research in this area. Conclusions The findings contribute to an understanding of YHP's experiences of education, specifically, acknowledging their strengths and resources as mechanisms which support educational engagement. Strategies to support YHP in education are considered, with implications for educational psychologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote Arctic communities have often been depicted as being particularly vulnerable to the challenges of disasters, with their location and lack of infrastructure exacerbating risk. This study explores the characteristics of local resilience in the Arctic using the case study of the communities of the north-western Westfjords. A total of 42 semi-structured interviews were carried out with various community members, seeking to uncover the features of inbuilt resilience that contribute to successes and vulnerabilities. These were transcribed, coded, and categorised in relation to an integrated framework for assessing community resilience in disaster management, which groups topics via the themes of environmental, social, governance, economic, and infrastructure. All themes played a role in the success of local coping strategies, with easy access to the natural environment central to physical and mental well-being. Despite this, vulnerabilities of the community were evident, including insufficient local healthcare workers during a severe COVID-19 outbreak in a care home, the absence of a local quarantine hotel, and insufficient information in foreign languages for non-natives of Iceland. The general trend of following rules and expert advice was demonstrative of strong social capital, with locals trusting those in charge, nationally and locally, to manage the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used three different databases that cover different years from 2006 through 2023 that provide different insights into the associations of firm features with their E, S, and G scores, as well as the composite ESG score. We find that large market capitalization firms are associated with higher ESG and environmental scores as well as with ESG-related strengths. These associations likely stem from the increased scrutiny and expectations from investors, regulators, and the public for large-cap firms. However, we find that changes in ESG scores have no significant associations with changes in basic firm characteristics—market cap, growth options, or profitability. That is, changes in ESG scores over time do not seem to significantly enhance or alter these basic features of a firm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The global emphasis on medical education quality has established accreditation as a crucial evaluation method. Iran has implemented systematic institutional and program accreditation in medical universities over the past decade. This study analyzes the strengths and implementation challenges of educational accreditation from the perspective of field experts. Methods We conducted a qualitative content analysis study, engaging accreditation experts selected through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were employed to gather expert opinions on the strengths and challenges of implementing educational accreditation in Iran. The resulting data underwent inductive content analysis to distill key themes and insights. Results Analysis of the interviews yielded 140 primary codes, which were organized into two main themes and six categories. The first theme, “the Pillars of the Accreditation System,” encompassed four main categories: accreditation standards, accreditation structure, accreditation evaluators, and accreditation outcomes. The second theme, “Improvement in Conducting Accreditation,” comprised two main categories: improving the structure and improving the implementation process. While accreditation efforts have improved institutional adherence to basic quality standards, challenges such as excessive governmental control and the approval of underperforming institutions raise concerns about the credibility of the process. Conclusion The efforts of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education in implementing accreditation have guided programs and institutions towards achieving minimum quality assurance standards. Structural issues within Iran’s accreditation framework, such as governmental control over the accreditation process and the consideration of multiple factors in accreditation decisions, have led to some concerns. One of these concerns is approving underperforming institutions and programs which has raised some questions about quality and necessity of the accreditation process itself. It is hoped that in the near future, the Ministry of Health and Medical Education will devise and implement strategies to enhance the current system, paving the way for a more robust and effective accreditation process in the future.

Aims: Trauma and Orthopaedic (T&O) surgery has come under scrutiny for lagging behind other medical specialties in promoting gender and cultural equity and diversity within their workforce. The proportions of female, ethnic minority, and sexual and gender minority individuals within orthopaedic membership bodies are disproportionate to the populations they serve. The aim of this study is to report the findings of a national workforce survey of demographics and working patterns within T&O in Scotland. Methods: A questionnaire devised by a working group was delivered by the Client Analyst and Relationship Development (CARD) group. Utilizing a secure third party ensured anonymity for all respondents. Data were recorded and analyzed by the CARD group. Results: A total of 353 responses were recorded, representing 71% of the known workforce. Overall, 261 respondents (74%) identified as male, 85 (24%) female, and seven (2%) preferred not to say. For specialist trainee (ST)3 to ST6, 148 (42%) were female, and for ST7 to ST8, 131 (37%) were female. In total, 226 of all respondents (64%) were white-British, 35 (10%) were white-European, and 92 (26%) were of an ethnic minority background. A total of 321 of respondents (91%) identified as heterosexual, 14 (4%) preferred not to say, and 18 (5%) identified as LGBTQ+ or preferred to self-describe. Conclusion: This is the largest national workforce survey in contemporary surgical literature. The findings demonstrate a greater proportion of female surgeons overall compared to other studies in T&O. This proportion of females was highest among more junior trainees. The Scottish T&O workforce is more ethnically diverse than the demographics of the population it serves. This study suggests that T&O in Scotland is an evolving speciality in terms of equality and diversity, and is making positive progress. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2025;6(1):103–108.

Purpose – The purpose of this study was to examine how well a strength-based program grounded in positive psychology principles can advance the practical critical thinking skills of those pursuing the teacher training course. Design/methodology/approach – This study used a single-group pre-test post-test design with 35 teacher-trainees from the Bachelor of Education course. The two-and-a-half-week strength-based program used the values in action survey to identify strengths. Pre- and post-test scores, measured with the Cornell Critical Thinking Test – Level Z, underwent Statistical Package for Social Sciences analysis including paired samples t-test for subcomponent and overall composite analysis. Findings – Analysis of the pre- and post-test scores demonstrated a statistical significance in the critical thinking scores obtained by the teacher-trainees. Post-test scores were consistently significant. Out of the elements of critical thinking, induction, meaning, observation and credibility were more prominent. Deduction and assumption identification were also having a significant effect. Originality/value – Most critical thinking programs focus on evaluating specific teaching methods for improving critical thinking skills. In education, positive psychology studies often center on students’ well-being, attention spans and academic success, aligning with wellness programs. Despite the importance of strengths in positive psychology, there is a lack of research on using a strength-based approach to boost critical thinking skills. This study aims to enhance teacher-trainees’ critical thinking by leveraging their individual strengths, moving away from traditional instructional strategies.

Transforming tourism destinations using technology that makes the travel process efficient and pleasant for different generational groups is crucial. Any attempt to achieve this goal should start with an analysis of the feedback tourists provide about their digital experience at a destination. This study was carried out to gain an understanding of the perceptions of Romanian tourists of the strengths and weaknesses of smart tourism destinations as the first part of any SWOT analysis designed to collect critical factors about the current situation aiming to improve it to remain on a highly competitive market. The empirical data was obtained from 628 tourists belonging to Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, and Generation Z. The results showed, after a MAXQDA Analytics Pro analysis, that for all four generations considered, the number of respondents who identified strengths is higher than those who mentioned weaknesses. The study also found more similarities than differences across generations in tourists' perceptions of smart technology. Beyond Wi-Fi, destination marketers should focus on internet signal quality and mobile apps for improved travel experiences. However, generational gaps emerged: older generations valued ease of use, while younger ones prioritized access to information apps. Gen Y identified virtual experiences as a weakness, while Gen Z highlighted problematic applications By leveraging these tourism destination strengths, marketers can optimize their digital strategies, ensuring relevance and resonance across diverse demographic segments. Moreover, such insights empower tourism destinations to innovate more effectively, meeting the evolving needs and expectations of each generation in an increasingly digital landscape.

Key digested message As the workforce is catapulted from the pivotal societal changes of the Digital Revolution into the Intelligence Revolution, the impact of AI dominates conversations across the workplace. At all levels of seniority, AI is changing how we operate, confronting our people with big existential questions as leaders must predict how to stay ahead of the competitive curve. In the next decade, the pace of change will transform work in ways we can't yet imagine. What will truly set an organisation apart is their leaders' ability to amplify the talents of diverse, adaptive teams to profit from emerging opportunities and solve problems of increasing complexity. Success won't be determined simply by an ability to keep up with technology, but by leaders who can harness the diversity of human capability that AI is, so far, unable to replicate. This article looks at the role that occupational psychologists can play in identifying, developing and recruiting for the human-centred strengths – such as empathy, objectivity, relationship management – that stand out as being critical to success in the Intelligence Revolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Character strengths were introduced into the positive psychology literature twenty years ago. The present bibliometric analysis quantitatively summarizes the research conducted in the field so far in terms of impact and themes analyzed. We conduct performance analysis to examine the total number of publications on character strengths, their bibliometric indices, the main journals contributing to the field, and the countries involved in such knowledge accumulation and how this has changed over time. We furthermore conduct science mapping analysis using the keywords of the papers. Specifically, we describe the time-varying occurrence of specific keywords and use network and thematic mapping analyses to determine the dynamic intercorrelations among the emerging research topics. Our results show the significant and growing contribution of character strengths to the positive psychology literature and beyond, but also the need for cross-fertilization with neighboring fields. We also highlight an increasing contribution from non-WEIRD countries in recent years, which calls for in-depth cross-cultural research. Topics such as measurement and well-being appear to be well-established and integrated, while there’s an emerging interest in mental health research. Overall, the present analysis illuminates on the past, present, and upcoming trends in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has shown that Appreciative Inquiry (AI) and strengths development interventions can foster well-being, engagement, and performance in the workplace. However, additional studies are needed to develop effective interventions and test their effects on these variables, notably from a comparative perspective. The objective of this research was therefore to measure and compare the effects of AI and strengths development interventions on employee well-being, engagement, and performance at work. Two quasi-experimental studies were conducted among workers in France (n = 202; in-person intervention protocol) and Canada (n = 70; online intervention protocol). Results of analyses of variance indicate that AI and strengths development interventions led to improvements in well-being and engagement. Additionally, results suggest that AI and strengths development interventions produce distinct effects on the studied variables. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used three different databases that cover different years from 2006 through 2023 that provide different insights into the associations of firm features with their E, S, and G scores, as well as the composite ESG score. We find that large market capitalization firms are associated with higher ESG and environmental scores as well as with ESG-related strengths. These associations likely stem from the increased scrutiny and expectations from investors, regulators, and the public for large-cap firms. However, we find that changes in ESG scores have no significant associations with changes in basic firm characteristics—market cap, growth options, or profitability. That is, changes in ESG scores over time do not seem to significantly enhance or alter these basic features of a firm.

Abstract Purpose Developing personal goals beyond weight and shape, and promoting the agency to pursue those goals, could aid in treatment and recovery from anorexia nervosa (AN). This research explores the strengths, interests and goals of individuals currently receiving treatment for AN and evaluates how treatment services are supporting them to work towards personal goals across all areas of everyday life. Method A total of 58 community-dwelling adults currently receiving treatment for anorexia nervosa at any stage of recovery completed the Client Assessment of Strengths, Interests and Goals Self-Report (CASIG-SR). Participants reported their goals for accommodation, work and study, interpersonal relationships, recreational activities, spirituality, religion or life purpose, physical health and mental health, and the personal strengths and supports needed to achieve those goals. Concordance scores were calculated between importance of personal goals and level of support from current services regarding these goals. Results Themes identified across goals, strengths and supports were Connection, Independence & Confidence, Meaning & Self: The Real Me, and Stability & Balance. Work and study goals and strengths were identified strongly. The key support needed was stability from the current treatment team to provide a stable base for change. Concordance scores indicate support provided for personal goals was less than the importance of the goal to the individual. Conclusion Results suggest goals for everyday living are critical to recovery in anorexia nervosa. Specific clinical considerations to increase motivation and hope are increased access to peer support, a focus on increasing positive affect, supporting safe exercise and promoting outdoor experiences and connection with nature. Level III Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies.

Gaps in research knowledge pertaining to resiliency factors and strengths among the Black autism community, inclusive of autistic persons and their support system exist. A scoping review was conducted to further explore quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies that investigate resiliency factors and related strengths in the Black autism community in the United States. A total of 436 articles were identified, with 28 studies included in the final review. Results demonstrated that (1) strengths of Black autistic persons across the life course have been disregarded in research; (2) Black caregiver advocacy, while common, is also a developmental process that can be supported by community‐based interventions; (3) informal supports including family and friends play an instrumental role in supporting the well‐under investigated being of Black parents of autistic children; and (4) spirituality is often endorsed by Black caregivers of autistic children, such as playing a role in acceptance of the autism diagnosis and with coping with difficult life situations. Research and practice implications are discussed. Lay Summary: The resiliency of Black autistic persons and their families is largely ignored, and as a result, we know little about this community. Prevailing strengths of Black caregivers of autistic children include advocacy, a reliable support network, and spirituality; however, the strengths of Black autistic persons have not been studied. It is important as a field that the resiliency of the autism community advances to focus more on racially/culturally/ethnically diverse populations. Yet, differences can be found across cultures and by contextual factors such as social group (e.g., gender, disability, etc.) membership (Aldwin, 2004; Dirth & Branscombe, 2018). Focusing on resiliency and supporting factors to resilience (e.g., strengths) in disability communities, such as the autism community, is a growing area of study (Mannino, 2015; Scheffers et al., 2022; Tajik‐Parvinchi et al., 2024). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Developing personal goals beyond weight and shape, and promoting the agency to pursue those goals, could aid in treatment and recovery from anorexia nervosa (AN). This research explores the strengths, interests and goals of individuals currently receiving treatment for AN and evaluates how treatment services are supporting them to work towards personal goals across all areas of everyday life. Method: A total of 58 community-dwelling adults currently receiving treatment for anorexia nervosa at any stage of recovery completed the Client Assessment of Strengths, Interests and Goals Self-Report (CASIG-SR). Participants reported their goals for accommodation, work and study, interpersonal relationships, recreational activities, spirituality, religion or life purpose, physical health and mental health, and the personal strengths and supports needed to achieve those goals. Concordance scores were calculated between importance of personal goals and level of support from current services regarding these goals. Results: Themes identified across goals, strengths and supports were Connection, Independence & Confidence, Meaning & Self: The Real Me, and Stability & Balance. Work and study goals and strengths were identified strongly. The key support needed was stability from the current treatment team to provide a stable base for change. Concordance scores indicate support provided for personal goals was less than the importance of the goal to the individual. Conclusion: Results suggest goals for everyday living are critical to recovery in anorexia nervosa. Specific clinical considerations to increase motivation and hope are increased access to peer support, a focus on increasing positive affect, supporting safe exercise and promoting outdoor experiences and connection with nature. Level III: Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the impact of varied cement doses (250, 275, 300, 325, and 350 kg/m³) and granular classes (Dmax of 8, 10, 12.5, and 20 mm) on pervious concrete characteristics. The concrete's fresh and hardened states are examined to identify the ideal cement dosage and granular class for optimal properties. Workability in the fresh state is measured using the slump test and air content analysis. In the hardened state, performance is assessed through water permeability, porosity, density, compressive strength, and electrical resistivity tests. The research reveals that granular class Dmax significantly affects pervious concrete properties. A smaller Dmax and lower cement dosage enhance workability, while in the hardened state, a smaller Dmax combined with higher cement dosage reduces porosity and water permeability and increases mechanical strength and density. The ideal combination of cement dose and granular class varies depending on the specific property under consideration. This study emphasizes the importance of carefully selecting granular class and cement dosage to achieve desired pervious concrete qualities. These findings provide valuable insights for practitioners aiming to enhance the sustainability and resilience of urban infrastructure using pervious concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative research on vigour as a therapeutically responsive marker of positive mental health, has become possible by virtue of the validation of the Vigour Assessment Scale (VAS). Considering that its validation and therapeutic responsiveness were examined in an avolitional schizophrenia population, using the VAS outside these constraints requires that its psychometric properties be investigated in a more general non-clinical population. Social media respondents (n = 787) were recruited on social media through snowball sampling and data were obtained for statistical analyses through an online questionnaire comprising the VAS and measures of work-place vigour, active involvement in personal growth, behavioural activation, procrastination, and fatigue. Convergent validity was confirmed in moderate to strong positive correlations between the VAS and measures approximate to vigour including physical strength (r = 0.805), cognitive liveliness (r = 0.676), planfulness (r = 0.61), and intentional behaviour (r = 0.595). Discriminant validity was evident in negative correlations with procrastination (r = −0.593) and fatigue (r = −0.786). The VAS showed good internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.951), split-half reliability (r = 0.892), test-retest reliability (r = 0.861), and a low standard error of measurement of 3.73 within a theoretical range of 82 points. Exploratory factor analysis yielded a clear two-factor structure. Results are limited to willing participants who responded through social media. Vigour may now be measured clinically as an indication of positive mental health and well-being. It may also be further investigated for its relations to other parameters of health, personality, and the efficacy of professional and self-enhancing interventions that aim for the cultivation of vigour. • Vigour correlated positively with strengths, liveliness, and intentional behaviour. • Vigour correlated negatively with procrastination and fatigue. • The Vigour Assessment Scale measured validly, reliably, and with small error. • Vigour may be measured clinically as an indication of positive mental health. • Vigour may be researched in relation to well-being, personality, and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognizing material waste as a significant global concern has influenced both the environment and the construction industry. The utilization of ceramic waste as a recycled material in construction projects has gained attention as an effective and sustainable approach to address environmental issues. This study examines the use of waste ceramic tile powder (WCTP) as a supplementary material in cement mortars to decrease the amount of cement required. WCTP was used in place of cement at percentages of 5%, 10%, and 20%. Four different mix designs were created and tested for the study, yielding a total of 48 specimens. Numerous investigations were carried out, including flow table evaluations, measures of dry density, assessments of compressive and flexural strengths, X-ray diffraction, and SEM-EDX testing. The objective of these investigations was to evaluate the specimens' mechanical and physical characteristics as a whole. The findings showed that using ceramic powder in place of some cement might enhance the properties of the mortar. The compressive and flexural strengths of the mortar were notably impacted by replacing 10% of the cement content with ceramic powder. The inclusion of ceramic powder significantly enhanced the mortar's microstructure interface, according to SEM-EDX studies. In the end, the utilization of ceramic powder was found to have a substantial positive impact on the environment by reducing waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite efforts to incorporate protective factors or 'strengths' in applied risk assessments for criminal reoffending, there has been limited progress towards a consensus regarding what is meant by such terms, what effects predictors can exert, or how to describe such effects. This proof of concept study was undertaken to address those issues. A structured professional judgment tool was used to create lower and higher historical/static risk groups with a sample of 273 justice-involved male youth with sexual offenses followed over a fixed 3-year period. Using risk and protective poles to create pairs of dichotomous variables from trichotomously rated risk and protective items, risk-based exacerbation and risk-based protective effects were found. These varied in terms of whether the effect on the outcome of a new violent (including sexual) offense was larger, smaller, or absent for youth at higher or lower historical/static risk. Some of these potentially dynamic dichotomous variables were shown to have a protective (or risk) effect after controlling for both historical/static risk and that same item's risk (or protective) effect. Some moderated the association between historical/static risk and recidivism, strengthening or reducing it. Terms for these effects and implications of incorporating strengths in research and applied practice were considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the deformation behaviors and mechanical properties of 4H‐SiC single crystals are investigated using microcantilever beam specimens with two different sizes, A and B (A < B). Tensile stress is applied along <1¯1¯$\bar{1} \bar{1}$20> direction. Plastic deformation, or nonlinearity, is observed in the stress–strain curves, and yield stress, or proportional limit, coincides between the two specimens at ≈25 ± 2 GPa. Scanning transmission electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy studies show that the plastic deformation is due to dislocation activities; multiple‐dislocation pileup areas are observed in both the specimens. Assuming {11¯$\bar{1}$00}/<112¯$\bar{2}$0> prismatic slip which most plausibly occurs in the <1¯1¯$\bar{1} \bar{1}$20> stress application, the critical resolved shar stress is estimated to be 10.9 GPa, which agrees well with the previous studies. Measured fracture strength is 41.9 ± 2.8 and 33.5 ± 2.4 GPa for the A and B, respectively. Dislocation–fracture relationship is discussed on the basis of dislocation‐based fracture mechanics, etc. It is suggested that cracks form within the multiple‐dislocation pileup area, by interaction with dislocation pileups, and act as fracture origins. A's strength is close to an ideal tensile strength of 4H‐SiC in the <112¯$\bar{2}$0> direction, 47–55 GPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Findings and Discussion Conclusion So What Strengths‐based approaches to health care are often seen as an alternative to deficit‐based approaches and are common in Aboriginal health settings. Despite this, there is little existing research that describes Aboriginal peoples' perspectives about the strengths of their communities. This paper describes cultural strengths and resources as understood by Aboriginal people living in western Sydney.In‐depth interviews were used to collect qualitative data from two communities on Dharug and Dharrawal Country in western Sydney Australia. Data come from a larger study, which focused on how cultural strengths supported sexual well‐being. Fifty‐two interviews were conducted with Aboriginal young people (aged 16–24 years) by trained peer interviewers. Additionally, 16 interviews with Aboriginal adults (25 years and older) were conducted by members of the research team.While opinions varied, four key areas of cultural strength were identified: (1) strong kinship relationships; (2) knowledge sharing; (3) shared experiences, identities, and values; and (4) knowing Country. Throughout these four themes, the sense of connection and belonging is viewed as an important overarching theme.Communities are not homogenous with regard to what they view as cultural strengths. Knowing Country and practising culture meant different things to different individuals while providing a similar sense of belonging, connection, and identity.Health service providers, policies, and programs can use this information to understand the continuing impacts of past policies and events whilst recognising that each community has strengths that can be drawn upon to improve service engagement, knowledge sharing, and health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article overviews the contributions of Adlerian women in the studies of early recollections (ERs). Much of that work and many of the names are likely little known to contemporary readers and clinicians. The author highlights the theoretical and method ological contributions of Alice Friedmann, Eleanor B. Hedvig, Helene Papanek, and Lucy K. Ackerknecht. The author demonstrates historical development in the use of ERs in therapy, mirrored in the studies that were conducted by four women researchers. The author con cludes with an articulation of the Adlerian model for working with ERs in psycho therapy and supervision, stressing the power of ERs in presenting the individual's strengths and creative abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Successful leaders influence the group they represent. Effective surgical care is tied to its leadership climate. However, most surgical providers are not attuned to their individual strengths which if known they could leverage them within their teams. This study identifies leadership types within a department of surgery which may be used to better understand and cultivate their strengths. Methods: In 2022, 172 providers in an academic surgery department were offered the GallupTM CliftonStrengths assessment, a proprietary instrument that maps 34 strengths across 4 domains of leadership. The assessment provides a respondent with their top 5 strengths and the domain in which they naturally "lead". Results: Of 172 providers, 127 (74%) completed the assessment. While providers have strengths in multiple domains, they "lead with" a specific domain. Mapped from the providers' top 10 strengths, the most common "lead with" domain for surgical providers was Executing : the ability to implement ideas and produce results. Strategic Thinking : those who are analytical and push teams forward and Relationship Building : the ability to create strong and effective teams were followed by the least common domain. Influencing : the ability to communicate ideas and lead others. Formal leaders were significantly more likely to lead with Strategic Thinking. There were no significant differences between APPs and physicians. Conclusion: A majority of surgical providers "lead with" the GallupTM Executing domain. Those who lead with executing skills work tirelessly to produce outcomes. Learning to leverage the strengths of our teams to create cohesion and efficiency may improve engagement and retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of waste materials is a serious concern to researchers and scientists. Waste materials cause health and environmental hazards. Hence, they should be properly managed. The aim of this study is to develop a grinding disc using agricultural wastes (palm kernel shell and snail shell), granite, aluminium oxide, and polyester resin. The particles of snail shell, palm kernel shell, aluminium oxide (abrasive) and granite (friction modifier) were measured in percentages varying between 8 - 29 wt. % and were mixed with 27 wt. % polyester resin (binder), 3 wt. % methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (hardener) and 3 wt. % cobalt naphthalene (accelerator) to produce a grinding disc. The micrograph, hardness, wear rate, and water absorption tests were carried out on the grinding disc samples. The result showed that the composition with the highest palm kernel shell particle content (29 wt. %) had the best values for hardness and wear resistance, making it the most suitable material for grinding discs. The environmentally-friendly palm kernel shell-based discs could be used for soft metals, wood grinding and finishing processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the problems of low added value of products, lack of innovation ability and weak brand influence, the advantages and challenges of Gaoyang county textile industry cluster were discussed by combining qualitative and quantitative analysis methods, and corresponding suggestions were put forward. The research reveals that despite Gaoyang county's outstanding performance in industrial heritage, scale a advantages, and product diversification, its development is constrained by insufficient technological innovation, weak brand building, and low level of digitization. Therefore, strategies are proposed including shifting development modes, strengthening brand cultivation, enhancing digitization levels, and promoting green production. These strategic recommendations provide valuable insights for enhancing the competitiveness of Gaoyang county and similar textile industry clusters, holding significant implications for promoting local economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of research on young children’s strengths, likely in part due to limited tools available to identify individual strengths in early childhood. To help address this gap and provide a brief measure for parents, researchers, and practitioners, the 37-item Preschool Strengths Inventory (PSI) was developed. First, focus groups with parents were conducted to identify strengths in early childhood. Based on the results of the focus groups and a review of the research, items were developed, reviewed by experts, and tested through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The five factors identified were: Dynamic, Dependable, Caring, Inspiring, and Organized. Lastly, validity was tested and established with measures of personality traits and social skills, and the PSI’s test–retest reliability was examined. Results provide support for the content structure, reliability, and validity of the PSI. The PSI can provide the ability to study strengths beginning early in life and provide a foundation to develop strengths-focused interventions.

Listening is understood to be a foundational element in practices that rely on effective conversations, but there is a gap in our understanding of what the effects of high-quality listening are on both the speaker and listener. This registered report addressed this gap by training one group of participants to listen well as speakers discuss their character strengths, allowing us to isolate the role relational listening plays in strengths-based conversations. Participants were paired and randomly assigned to a high-quality listening (experimental) or moderate-quality listening (comparison) condition manipulated through a validated video-based training. High-quality listening predicted a more constructive relational experience; specifically, positivity resonance. Intrapersonal experiences (perceived authenticity and state anxiety) were not affected. Those who engaged in high-quality listening expressed a behavioural intention to continue listening, but condition did not predict a behavioural intention for speakers to continue applying character strengths. This is the first evidence of positivity resonance as a shared outcome between both a speaker and listener when the listener conveys high-quality (as opposed to ‘everyday’) listening. These early findings merit further study with stronger listening manipulations to explore the potential role of listening within interpersonal communication, and inform the applied psychological sciences (counselling, psychotherapy, coaching, organizational, education).

Objectives: This review aimed to 1) identify existing rural strengths in the literature that proposed a relationship to mental health, 2) classify strengths into a socioecological framework, and 3) identify which strengths make a conceptual link to improved mental health. Methods: Literature was systematically reviewed using online databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Scopus). Applicable original research studies that met the inclusion criteria, published (1990–2022) from Australia, Canada, and the United States were thematically analysed. Results: Sixty-one articles from Australia (n=28, 46%), Canada (n=8, 13%), and the United States (n=25, 41%) identified mental health-strengths relationships (e.g. social networks, nature). Twenty-seven studies proposed conceptual links to improved mental health and identified potential 'mechanisms' to harness strengths (e.g. identification, referral). Conclusions: Despite an entrenched rural deficit discourse, many strengths of rural communities were identified in the literature that, using an adapted socioecological framework to categorise, may be harnessed to improve the mental health of communities across the socioecological continuum. Implications for public health: Understanding existing strengths that are embedded in rural communities can inform future mental health policy and commissioning models in a way that is relevant and sustainable for communities, while recognising rural agency.

Remote Arctic communities have often been depicted as being particularly vulnerable to the challenges of disasters, with their location and lack of infrastructure exacerbating risk. This study explores the characteristics of local resilience in the Arctic using the case study of the communities of the north-western Westfjords. A total of 42 semi-structured interviews were carried out with various community members, seeking to uncover the features of inbuilt resilience that contribute to successes and vulnerabilities. These were transcribed, coded, and categorised in relation to an integrated framework for assessing community resilience in disaster management, which groups topics via the themes of environmental, social, governance, economic, and infrastructure. All themes played a role in the success of local coping strategies, with easy access to the natural environment central to physical and mental well-being. Despite this, vulnerabilities of the community were evident, including insufficient local healthcare workers during a severe COVID-19 outbreak in a care home, the absence of a local quarantine hotel, and insufficient information in foreign languages for non-natives of Iceland. The general trend of following rules and expert advice was demonstrative of strong social capital, with locals trusting those in charge, nationally and locally, to manage the pandemic.

AbstractObjectivesMethodsResultsConclusionsAlthough psychotherapy research suggests that clients’ resources are related to positive outcomes, there is a lack of clinical tools available to consider their integration into psychotherapy. In this exploratory research, we studied the feasibility of a semi-structured interview to identify resources reported by clients at the onset of therapy and the relationship between resources and therapy outcomes.Data consisted of interviews with 30 clients from a clinical trial, in which elicitation of resources and their relationship with the outcomes were the main study objectives.This interview was content analyzed and both adaptative resources and maladaptive resources (dysfunctional coping strategies) were identified. The association between the adaptive resources and the evolution of outcomes throughout treatment was analyzed. Time (i.e. sessions) and resources were negatively correlated with psychological distress. Moreover, resources positively influenced the impact of time on distress.Clinicians should not take at face value resources that are self-reported, as they may reflect the maladaptive functioning of the client. The finding that clients with higher resources at onset have better outcomes points to the need to study how resources may be elicited effectively during therapy, and if this improves psychotherapy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A decade after the implementation of the Urban Family Physician Program (UFFP) in Fars province, southern Iran, we aimed to reveal people’s opinions regarding the strengths and challenges of this program, which help policymakers for evidence‑based improvement of this program. Methods: In this thematic content analysis qualitative study, which was performed in 2023, one adult individual of each family under the coverage of UFPP was selected using a purposeful sampling method. Then, an in‑depth and semi‑structured phone interview was conducted with each participant. Interviews were continued until the achievement of data saturation. The trustworthiness of data was checked according to Guba and Lincoln criteria. Data analysis was accomplished using MAXQDA software version 10. Results: A total of 25 participants with a mean age of 41 ± 12 years old were interviewed. Extracted strengths points of UFPP consisted of 390 meaning units, 41 open codes, 16 subcategories, 9 categories, and 3 themes, of which the main themes consisted of proper governance, adequate service provision, and promoting community health. In contrast, the challenges of this program comprised 127 meaning units, 54 open codes, 17 subcategories, 7 categories, and 3 themes, the main themes of which included weak governance, inefficient service provision, and limitation of resources. Conclusions: After a decade of implementation, people demonstrated contradictory opinions about many aspects of UFPP. Strength points should encourage policymakers to advocate more for this program and extend it to the other provinces of Iran, whereas weak points should be used for its revisions and improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores Functional Individualized Therapy for Teenagers with Executive Deficits (FITTED) factors facilitating adolescents' improvement. At each of eight therapy sessions, 41 adolescents with executive function deficits and their parents wrote the primary concept they "took away." Experts categorized their answers by the FITTED model's main factors—goals, strengths, and strategies—adding child's difficulties for the parents' answers. Results describe answer frequencies by factor in each session. Across time, strengths and strategies dominated among adolescents, and strategies and difficulties among parents. Cognitive strategies are integral to the FITTED process for improving the daily functioning of adolescents with executive function deficits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the long-understood importance of Hope in the lives of individuals, few studies have investigated how Hope is understood from an Indian perspective. Furthermore, the focus on understanding the interpretations and experiences of Hope in the young adult population has been low. The current paper explores the phenomenon of Hope from Indian young adults' perspective. The sample consisted of 10 participants, who were in the age range of 21 to 22 years and were pursuing their undergraduate or postgraduate studies. The study utilized in-depth interviews to understand the experiences and perspectives of Hope in the participants. Data were analyzed through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) which brought forward several themes which focused on the experiences and understanding of Hope, delineating the main features of Hope, its situations, and its cognitive, affective, and behavioral consequences. The study adds literature to the Indian understanding of Hope or conceptualizing Hope from an Indian context and provides an in-depth understanding of the construct. It gives valuable insights into how Hope can be used for stress management and promoting well-being in individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The goal was to explore low‐income, Black fathers' personal strengths and barriers to engaged fatherhood, healthy relationships, and economic stability. Background: Fatherhood programs often rely on case management and education to promote positive fathering, healthy relationships, and economic stability. However, methods should be tailored to fit the strengths and needs of participating fathers. Low‐income, Black fathers face additional challenges related to systemic discrimination and structural violence that can hinder their success. To effectively serve this group, research is required to understand their relevant strengths and barriers. Methods: Semistructured focus groups explored fathers' personal strengths and barriers specific to the three areas of interest with fatherhood program staff (n = 8) and enrolled fathers (n = 26). Thematic analysis was conducted then systematically vetted by community scholars (previously enrolled or graduated fathers). Results: Fathering strengths included empathy, listening skills, and active family participation. Barriers included limited custody or access, individual constraints, and unmet social needs. Participants contextualized these findings with structural issues related to coparenting and the legal system (e.g., biased court systems). Men's relationship strengths included mutual respect and teamwork. Barriers included past trauma, lack of healthy relationship models, and relationship strain. Economic stability strengths included financial literacy and motivation to provide, whereas barriers included legal history, financial obligations, and limited resources. Conclusion: These findings highlight key individual‐level strengths and barriers grounded in fathers' intersectional identities as predominantly low‐income, Black men. Implications: Programs serving low‐income, Black fathers should consider tailoring their programming to the lived experiences of participants to navigate these critical barriers and amplify assets for success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]