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Individuals that possess and utilize their strengths have higher reports of subjective and psychological well-being. However, it remains unclear as to whether certain domains of strengths (e.g., strengths at home, at school, within the community) are more strongly associated with certain indices of well-being (e.g., stress management, social connectedness). This information is important given the complex presentation of strengths and idiosyncratic ways in which individuals place value on different aspects of well-being. High school students (N = 236, 51% female) from a rural northern community completed a set of online questionnaires while in class: The Strength Assessment Inventory-Youth Version (Rawana & Brownlee, 2010); Perceived Stress Scale (Cohen, Kamarck, & Mermelstein, 1983); and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (Zimet, Dahlem, Zimet, & Farley, 1988). Together, the measures examined different domains of strengths (character and environmental) and subjective and psychological well-being (i.e., perceived stress and relatedness adequacy, respectively). Bivariate correlations were used to identify strength domains that would be further analyzed through hierarchical regression modeling. Results showed that the strength of self-knowledge was relevant for both subjective and psychological well-being, whereas strengths at home, strengths at school, and strengths from having goals and dreams were relevant for only psychological well-being. Adolescents with a sense of self-knowledge (i.e., positive self-concept, confidence in abilities, sense of right from wrong when making decisions) may be better equipped to manage daily stresses and form connections to others. By examining specific domains and indices, a more refined understanding can be gained of the association between strengths and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For environmental reasons, the demand for recycled bio-based by-products and wastes is increasing in the construction sector nowadays. Furthermore, the fraction of organic waste in household waste is significantly increasing over time. The objective of this work is to investigate the possibility to produce a new sand concrete (SC) based on spent coffee grounds (SCG) as alternative bioaggregates. To achieve this objective, different dosages between 5 and 20% of crushed sand were replaced with SCG waste aggregates. The properties of the different SC mixes in the fresh state (workability and air content) and hardened state (porosity, dry density, mechanical strength and thermal properties) were assessed and compared to those for control SC. The experimental results showed that using SCG as bio-aggregates in sand concrete contributes to reducing its workability and mechanical strengths. However, the density and thermal properties are improved with the increasing rate of SCG. Replacing 20 % of the crushed sand with SCG decreased the thermal conductivity of the sand concrete by about 45%. The addition of 10% SCG to sand concrete has been found to be the most suitable rate of incorporation for structural applications with compressive strengths approaching 25 MPa at 90 days. Based on their thermal conductivity results less than 1 W/(m.K), the mixtures with 15 and 20% SCG can be classified as good insulating materials. Finally, the results of this study support the feasibility of using SCG as alternative biowaste aggregates to produce thermally insulating eco-friendly concrete for various types of structural elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Migraciones is the property of Universidad Pontificia Comillas, Instituto Universitario de Estudios sobre Migraciones and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background/Purpose: This study aims to investigate the influence of internalizing symptoms on functional impairment for children with ADHD, and whether child strengths and parenting strengths have moderating effects on this relationship. Methods: Participants included 209 children with ADHD and their caregivers seeking mental health services between the ages of 5 and 11 years. To examine the moderating effects of parenting and child strengths, ordinary least squares regression models were tested using the PROCESS macro for SPSS (v3.5). Results: Results suggest that levels of internalizing symptoms influence functional impairment in children with ADHD. Child strengths moderate the relationship between internalizing symptoms and functional impairment when internalizing symptoms are medium to high. Conclusion: Findings from this study demonstrate that facilitating child strengths can help moderate functional impairment for children who experience ADHD and internalizing symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite evidence that individuals' virtues and character strengths can contribute to a sense of fulfillment, the majority of dementia research focuses on losses and decline. To date, virtues and character strengths in persons living with dementia is an understudied phenomena. This study begins to addresses this gap in the literature. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to: (1) examine the expression of virtues and character strengths in persons living with dementia in the early stages; and (2) share implications and recommendations for strengths-based clinical practice and future research. Methods: Qualitative data was utilized to examine virtues and character strengths among persons living with dementia. This data was derived from semi-structured interviews with 25 persons living with dementia age 65 or older (average age of 77.88). The interviews were audio recorded with consent, professionally transcribed, audit checked, and subjected to Interpretive Phenomenological analysis which was informed by the Values in Action (VIA) framework. Findings: Each of the virtues and 24 corresponding character strengths from the VIA framework were observed in this sample. The most frequently observed character strengths were love, spirituality, perseverance, and gratitude. Implications: Persons with dementia continue to express virtues and character strengths in the context of cognitive and functional changes. Positive strengths-based research and clinical practice should highlight and build upon these individual virtues and character strengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Visión Contable is the property of Universidad Autonoma Latinoamericana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Nauki o Wychowaniu. Studia Interdyscyplinarne is the property of Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Lodzkiego and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to explore the strengths and weaknesses of e‐learning during the COVID‐19 pandemic from the perspective of its primary stakeholders, namely professors and students, and to provide practical solutions. Design is a qualitative study. We enrolled 22 faculty members and 58 students purposively. Research data were collected through a data collection checklist and via email and continued until the data were saturated. The qualitative content analyses were the basis of analysis in this study. Strengths were presented in 6 themes and 26 subthemes, weaknesses in 5 themes and 23 subthemes, and solutions were presented in 5 themes and 20 subthemes. Save money, time and energy; use modern software and educational technologies; and the ability to individualize education were among the strengths of e‐learning. The most important weaknesses related to e‐learning include infrastructure difficulties, problems related to the ability of professors and students to use educational systems. The most beneficial solutions offered included improving and upgrading the e‐learning infrastructure, empowering professors and students to use educational systems. We concluded that using online teaching has many strengths as well as some weaknesses. Identifying these strengths and weaknesses can help policymakers plan better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Scientific Annals of the 'Al. I. Cuza' University, Iasi. Sociology & Social Work / Analele Stiintifice ale Universitatii 'Al. I. Cuza' Iasi Sociologie si Asistenta Sociala is the property of Alexandru Ioan Cuza University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Gharee for Economics & Administration Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, the impact of two types of polymers on the stress-strain (σ − ε) behaviour, elastic modulus and toughness of cement-based cementitious material. Cement paste modified with two types of polymer up to 0.06% (% wt) with an interval of 0.02% were tested. The σ − ε behaviour of modified cement with polymeric admixtures was examined for curing periods up to 28 days. Adding polymers improved the flowability of cement by 7% to 26%, but it decreased the water/cement ratio ( w / c) by 12% to 43%, depending on the polymeric structure and its content. The nonlinear Vipulanandan p-q model was tested to predict the σ − ε relationship of the modified cement with polymers and was compared with the β model. The Vipulanandan p-q model and β model performance were evaluated by comparing with several functional models using residual error and root mean square error. The compression strength of cement increased by 107% to 257% when 0.06% of polymers were added to the cement. Modifying the cement with polymeric admixtures enhances cement's initial elastic modulus (Ei) by 23% to 240% according to polymeric admixture types, curing age (t), w / c and polymeric admixture percent. During the early curing time, the cement modified with polymeric admixture was able to withstand large deformations that mean increase the samples' ductility, but with increasing curing, the cement modified polymers become brittle and the strain at failure reduced. The modulus of elasticity and total toughness of the cement paste were correlated well with compressive strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated the potential use of commercial limestone powder (LP) of 10 to 40%.wt to replace slag in a new ternary alkaline system (BFS-GP-LP) activated by both (Na2SiO3 and NaOH). Ten mixtures of AAPs and AAMs are prepared; the aim is to understand the influence of precursor on fresh property, reaction kinetics and products, mechanical and microstructural properties; then it's compared with those of OPC. The findings indicate that the setting times of AAPs are prolonged when increasing LP content to by 40% (870, 1042 min); however, they are slower compared to OPC (320, 425 min). Despite the incorporation of LP improves spreading values to 184 mm, AAMs registered less workability than OPC. Using 20% GP provides a better CS (68 MPa) and FS (10 MPa); using LP harms strengths, but its use by 10%.wt improves the early age FS of MSG from 3.67 to 5.25 MPa and provides a higher CS (62.90 MPa) than OPC (60.90 MPa). The formation of reaction products is prolonged to 162 h when using 40% LP. Characterization testing identified that the main reaction product of AAMs is C-S-H gel. Microstructural analysis indicates that the samples contain LP have a heterogeneous and less compact structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite increasing attention to understanding strengths in those on the autism spectrum, few studies have explored this in older individuals. The present study provides a qualitative analysis of parent-reported strengths and positive qualities of 68 15–30-year-olds with autism and/or intellectual disability (ID). Most parents (97%) reported at least one positive quality. Themes were consistent with previous studies; Personality characteristics (82%) and Sociability (53%) were reported most frequently. A Work Ethic/Motivation category not previously reported emerged. Autistic individuals (with/without ID) were more likely than those with ID-only to have a Specific Skill. Findings highlight the importance of recognizing strengths of autistic adults. Research is needed to understand how to best leverage positive qualities to promote goal achievement and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Modern conceptualizations suggest the independence of positive and negative mental health constructs. Research of positive constructs in psychotherapy is scarce. This study analyzed the development of patients' strengths during psychotherapy and whether pre‐therapy strengths incrementally predict treatment outcome. Methods: Two hundred and two patients (56.44% female, mean age = 42.49) treated by 54 therapists underwent cognitive behavioral therapy. Patients' strengths in different contexts as well as psychopathology, interpersonal problems, and self‐esteem were assessed at the beginning and end of therapy. Results: Strengths increased in the contexts of everyday life (EvdayS; d = 0.44, p < 0.001) and current problems (ProbS; d = 0.70, p < 0.001). Strengths in the context of previous crises that were managed successfully (CrisesS) did not change. However, baseline scores of CrisesS were a significant incremental predictor of all outcomes. Conclusion: A differentiated assessment of positive constructs is useful for outcome prediction and the implementation of strength‐based interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven microporous MgO–Al2O3 ceramics with an Al2O3 content of 15–90 wt% were prepared using Al(OH)3 and calcined magnesite as raw materials. A wet mixing process was employed during sample preparation to transform the calcined magnesite with a larger particle size to smaller Mg(OH)2 particles. The in situ decomposition synthesis method and the Kirkendall effect were utilized to produce and control the pore structure of the microporous MgO–Al2O3 ceramics. There were two kinds of pores in the microporous MgO–Al2O3 ceramics. The first one resulted from the in situ decomposition of Al(OH)3 and Mg(OH)2 particles, which were small and equally distributed. Another one originated from the position of the Mg(OH)2 particles due to the Kirkendall effect caused by MgO diffusion. They were similar in size to the Mg(OH)2 pseudomorph particles. Simultaneously, the Al2O3 content affected the packing behavior and the spinel formation, which changed the characteristics of the pores and necks among the particles. These mechanisms also affected the strengths of the microporous MgO–Al2O3 ceramics. Thus, when the Al2O3 content was 45–90 wt%, the microporous MgO–Al2O3 ceramics had a high compressive strength (10.0–18.3 MPa) and apparent porosity (52.2%–58.4%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoice methodology centralises the voices of marginalised populations within health systems using photography and critical dialogue to record, reflect and communicate community health issues. This paper presents findings from applying photovoice to explore and document the lived experiences of groups of marginalised populations in six low- and middle-income countries: Cambodia, Ghana, Nepal, Sierra Leone, Uganda and Zambia. The strengths of using photovoice included: creating safe spaces for communication; community solidarity and stakeholder engagement; community ownership of actions and advocacy; developing new soft skills and confidence; capturing hidden community challenges; and taking collective action. Suggestions for use in future photovoice studies include: providing space for the exploration of contextual factors before implementation; developing a capacity strengthening plan to ensure participants have the competencies required to effectively take part in research and dissemination; considering the use of non-visual methods alongside photovoice when needed; and having in place partnership structures between researchers and participants that facilitate power sharing, agency, empowerment and joint decision making. Lastly, we present recommendations that have the potential to strengthen the value and use of photovoice as more than a participatory method but also a vehicle for individual, relational and health systems improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strengths-based social work is a deceptively simple approach that is conflated with community strengths-based models, causing confusion for local authority commissioning processes as well as for practice. This has led to the reductionist question 'what are your strengths' now being seen as an acceptable basis for assessment. It may be that in our determination to avoid a deficit approach, we are ignoring the realities of living with care and support needs. But it may also be that in the face of overwhelming need, a simplistic approach to assessment serves the unconscious need to contain anxiety for social workers and wider system. This article uses a local authority case study to explore the meaning of strengths approach for social work. An approach of Relationships and Reciprocity is proposed to build upon the affirming principles of strengths and contributions whilst recognising the centrality of the relationship in forming authentic collaboration and containment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efforts to ascertain the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) in Africa have been ongoing, but comparatively, scant attention has been directed toward investigating the coping strategies utilized by families affected by IPV as well as the cultural dynamics that influence their actions. This scoping review examines the literature on the coping strategies and cultural influences that affect families experiencing IPV in Africa. Using the methodology outlined by Arksey and O'Malley, we conducted a comprehensive search across multiple databases, identifying 35 articles conducted across 10 African countries that met our inclusion criteria. Studies were selected based on their focus on IPV survivors in Africa and their attention to coping strategies, strengths, and cultural influences. In line with the four-factor model of coping strategies by Ayers et al., our review highlights active coping (problem-solving behaviors and cognitive restructuring), avoidance coping (minimizing or ignoring stressors), distraction coping (diverting attention through emotional release or activities) and seeking social support among African IPV families. In addition, culturally based coping mechanisms, including silence, placating behaviors, and leveraging religious and community support, were also identified. These findings underscore the complex interplay of individual, cultural, and contextual factors influencing coping strategies in the context of IPV in African families., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background and Aims: Siblings play a crucial role in shaping and guiding the experiences of their brother or sister with a disability across the lifespan. However, little is known about the positive outcomes of their roles and experiences as siblings. Understanding the positive outcomes challenges stereotypes and the stigma associated with disabilities and allows for a more holistic view of sibling experiences., Methods: We conducted a survey with 140 adult siblings of people with disabilities to explore their strengths, resilience and community belonging., Results: We found that siblings highly rated their perceived strengths across various domains. Furthermore, siblings maintained high levels of resilience and most belonged to various organisations for social support. We also noted several strengths-based factors that predicted siblings' resilience., Conclusion: Our findings offer significant insights into siblings' inherent and developed strengths and the role of community networks in promoting sibling resilience and expanding their support systems., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

In Argentina, dengue is an emerging health problem, with high morbidity during epidemic periods, which generates a significant burden on the population. Despite the efforts that have been made to control it, the disease has managed to spread rapidly due to the favorable conditions for its development. Faced with this situation, there is a need, in a private outpatient care center, for adequate control and clinical management of dengue cases, which is why the objective of carrying out a SWOT analysis (strengths, opportunities, weaknesses and threats) was established to develop a model that improves operational-care results. This SWOT analysis covered two areas: a) institutional and b) laboratory, in which the internal situation of the institution was evaluated to determine the characteristics presented after the last dengue outbreak, and thus develop strategies for future outbreaks. The results include trained personnel, the possibility of early diagnosis and timely control generated from spontaneous demand, which is why we determined that the institution has the capacity to respond to outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics. This analysis presents a strengthening activity between different areas through a comprehensive approach and the identification of new cases, which can respond to the needs of the population with dengue. By this means, valid and reliable information is provided for the approach and strategy of possible new outbreaks.

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.

The aim of the study is to carry out a SWOT analysis of the impact of the spread of a new coronavirus infection on the environment and on public policy for environmental development. The main strategic planning documents defining long-term priorities, goals and objectives of public administration in the field of environmental protection and ecological safety have been reviewed, the relevant domestic and foreign publications in this field have been studied, the materials of the websites of government authorities that publish information on the current situation and measures to support business and economy in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic as well as statistical and other data on the the environmental situation in Russia in recent years have been analysed. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the current state of the environment and the environmental effects of this impact have been shown, the main challenges and threats to environmental security have been described, opportunities have been formulated in the current situation and can be used in the development of state environmental policy. The problematic issues of waste management in the pandemic have been touched upon. Particular attention has been paid to measures to combat new coronavirus infection and to support the economy with regard to environmental management and protection issues, as well as to business support measures in relation to COVID-19 pandemic in the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. The conclusions drawn from the study indicate that there is scope for a stronger trend towards a green economy.

Aims: Anchorage of pedicle screw rod instrumentation in the elderly spine with poor bone quality remains challenging. Our study aims to evaluate how the screw bone anchorage is affected by screw design, bone quality, loading conditions, and cementing techniques. Methods: Micro-finite element (µFE) models were created from micro-CT (μCT) scans of vertebrae implanted with two types of pedicle screws (L: Ennovate and R: S4). Simulations were conducted for a 10 mm radius region of interest (ROI) around each screw and for a full vertebra (FV) where different cementing scenarios were simulated around the screw tips. Stiffness was calculated in pull-out and anterior bending loads. Results: Experimental pull-out strengths were excellently correlated to the µFE pull-out stiffness of the ROI (R2 > 0.87) and FV (R2 > 0.84) models. No significant difference due to screw design was observed. Cement augmentation increased pull-out stiffness by up to 94% and 48% for L and R screws, respectively, but only increased bending stiffness by up to 6.9% and 1.5%, respectively. Cementing involving only one screw tip resulted in lower stiffness increases in all tested screw designs and loading cases. The stiffening effect of cement augmentation on pull-out and bending stiffness was strongly and negatively correlated to local bone density around the screw (correlation coefficient (R) = -0.95). Conclusion: This combined experimental, µCT and µFE study showed that regional analyses may be sufficient to predict fixation strength in pull-out and that full analyses could show that cement augmentation around pedicle screws increased fixation stiffness in both pull-out and bending, especially for low-density bone. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2021;10(12):797–806.

The study aimed at indemnifying the main obstacles that face the application strategic planning From Secondary School Principals in Khartoum State. For that purpose, the descriptive analytic method was used. The study population included all secondary school principals in Omdurman locality membrane 220. Out of the study population a random sample consisting of 120 principles was chosen. For the purpose of data collection, the researchers designed and used a questionnaire distributed to all sample members. To analyze the collected data, the statistical package (SPSS) was used. The main following results were reached: the school principals face difficulties in analyzed the point of the strength, weaken, opportunities, and threats facing their schools as they lack the basic scientific foundation and know ledge of strategic planning, The school principals encounter difficulties and problems when they handle and go about strategic planning of their schools due to the fact that they lack the basic required skills and competences regarding the implementation of the strategic planning processes. In view of the results being researched, it is recommended that: Obstacles that hinder the implementation of strategic planning need to be removed in order to active the school strategic planning processes.

In 2022, nursing faculty reflect on the transition without global or national benchmarks or blueprints of a South African Nursing Education Institution to online education during the Covid-19 pandemic. Objective: To provide policy makers a resource in preparation for future crises in education. A theoretical-reflective study supported by a SWOT analysis aimed to understand the transition to online teaching and learning and assessments for the Nursing Discipline (nursing faculty n = 22; undergraduate students n = 291) of a select South African university. It revealed four key lessons learned. Firstly, whether change is planned or unplanned, policy frameworks should guide it. Secondly, resources exist within faculty, and at times, change agents might not be necessary as strengths can be drawn from within. Thirdly, through managing a crisis, faculty-service partnership can be strengthened. Lastly, a need exists for continual surveillance as the inequality gap in Higher Education students has become increasingly visible and amplified further marginalisation. Our reflections have highlighted that opportunities and strengths abound as the pandemic has fast-tracked nursing education institutions to embrace technology for teaching and learning and assessments. Three of the key lessons learned emphasise what is known about the successful outcome of working together.

Background: Clinicians increasingly serve youths from societal/cultural backgrounds different from their own. This raises questions about how to interpret what such youths report. Rescorla et al. (2019, European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 28, 1107) found that much more variance in 72,493 parents' ratings of their offspring's mental health problems was accounted for by individual differences than by societal or cultural differences. Although parents' reports are essential for clinical assessment of their offspring, they reflect parents' perceptions of the offspring. Consequently, clinical assessment also requires self‐reports from the offspring themselves. To test effects of individual differences, society, and culture on youths' self‐ratings of their problems and strengths, we analyzed Youth Self‐Report (YSR) scores for 39,849 11–17 year olds in 38 societies. Methods: Indigenous researchers obtained YSR self‐ratings from population samples of youths in 38 societies representing 10 culture cluster identified in the Global Leadership and Organizational Behavioral Effectiveness study. Hierarchical linear modeling of scores on 17 problem scales and one strengths scale estimated the percent of variance accounted for by individual differences (including measurement error), society, and culture cluster. ANOVAs tested age and gender effects. Results: Averaged across the 17 problem scales, individual differences accounted for 92.5% of variance, societal differences 6.0%, and cultural differences 1.5%. For strengths, individual differences accounted for 83.4% of variance, societal differences 10.1%, and cultural differences 6.5%. Age and gender had very small effects. Conclusions: Like parents' ratings, youths' self‐ratings of problems were affected much more by individual differences than societal/cultural differences. Most variance in self‐rated strengths also reflected individual differences, but societal/cultural effects were larger than for problems, suggesting greater influence of social desirability. The clinical significance of individual differences in youths' self‐reports should thus not be minimized by societal/cultural differences, which—while important—can be taken into account with appropriate norms, as can gender and age differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research project was to pilot strengths-based guidance in higher education and construct a research-based model to be applied in higher education settings. The research question set for this study was as follows: How can strengthsbased guidance be developed and implemented in higher education? This research followed the model of educational design research (EDR). In this article, we report the overall progress of EDR and the pilot models (n=14) developed by 20 teachers and counselors. Based on the findings, a strengths-based future guidance (SBFG) model for higher education was developed. It is based on the profound understanding, recognition, and use of strengths so that the student can analyze and make future-oriented choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Social Research is the property of International Journal Labs and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Research in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has had a clear focus on treatment and the dysfunction in specific situation associated with the condition. However, self-report, observational and anecdotal evidence indicates that there are also positive aspects associated with ADHD. Research on the potential positive features in individuals with an ADHD diagnosis is still limited, especially studies with larger representative samples. Here we performed qualitative research to identify positive aspects and strengths associated with ADHD in a large convenience sample from the Dutch organization for people with ADHD, dyslexia and dyscalculia. We sent out open-ended questionnaires to the members of the organization, asking what they consider to be positive aspects of their ADHD. From the responses of individuals with ADHD (n = 206), we extracted 116 codes, which were assigned to thirteen subthemes, which in turn led to five themes. These themes were: Creativity, Being dynamic, Flexibility, Socio-affective skills, and Higher-order cognitive skills. Core symptoms of ADHD such as impulsivity and hyperactivity were also considered positive aspects of ADHD by a minority of participants. After showing our results to a group of additional individuals with ADHD (focus group) they confirmed the identified positive aspects of ADHD. They also helped us with the interpretation of our findings and mentioned certain positive aspects to be a consequence of living with ADHD (being open minded and being honest). In conclusion, experiencing positive aspects seems to be common in ADHD as almost all participants reported positive aspect of ADHD, these aspects cover many different domains. Awareness about ADHD's strengths might help individuals with ADHD and their environment to better cope with, accept or embrace their diagnosis and for example make educational or occupational choices that fit them well. To incorporate these positive aspects in the understanding of ADHD, future research should focus on quantifying strengths in ADHD, and on investigating the link between these aspects and clinical characteristics and how this new knowledge can be implemented in psychoeducation and find its way to education and occupational settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comorbidity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses is well established. An ASD diagnosis is associated with elevated ADHD traits and symptoms, as well as strengths in attention. In the ASD literature, attentional strengths have been described as maladaptive (e.g., hyperfocus), in contrast with positive portrayals in the typically developing population (e.g., flow). The objective of this study was to (1) compare profiles of attentional strengths and weaknesses in ASD and ADHD and (2) determine whether attentional strengths in ASD are associated with impairment, poorer cognitive flexibility, and perseveration/perfectionism. In a community sample of 5,744 children and youth, 131 children were reported as having a diagnosis of ASD (mean age 10.3 years) and 346 children were reported as having a diagnosis of ADHD (mean age 10.7 years). We used the Strengths and Weaknesses of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity-symptoms and Normal-behaviors (SWAN) rating scale to calculate attentional and hyperactive/impulse control strength and weakness counts and scores. The Autism-Spectrum Quotient Switching factor served as a measure of cognitive flexibility. Impairment was assessed with the Columbia Impairment Scale. We used the symmetry/ordering factor on the Toronto Obsessive-Compulsive Scale as a measure of perseveration/perfectionism. No differences were found between the ADHD and ASD groups in SWAN weakness scores, symptoms, or hyperactive/impulse control strengths; however, autistic children had higher rates of attentional strengths [odds ratio: 5.7, 95% CI (2.8, 11.6), p < 0.0001]. Post-hoc pairwise testing identified four attentional strengths with significantly higher rates in ASD than in ADHD. Attentional strength scores were not associated with impairment or poor cognitive flexibility, but predicted levels of perseveration/perfectionism. The effect of attentional strengths on impairment and cognitive flexibility did not differ between autistic and Control children, but the higher perseveration/perfectionism scores seen in ASD were not found in Control children. ASD is associated with a pattern of attentional strengths that is not found in ADHD Characterizing the full range of attentional abilities in autistic children may explain variability in outcomes such as quality-of-life indicators and identify protective factors, providing targets for strength-based behavioral interventions. The clinical and etiological implications of the subgroup of autistic children with attentional strengths require further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While abnormal psychology courses have traditionally focused on psychopathology, there are several benefits to adopting a strengths-based approach. Objective: This study examined the teaching of a strengths-based assessment approach (the DICE-PM Model), compared to teaching as usual, in an undergraduate abnormal psychology course. Method: Two sections of an abnormal psychology course were taught a strengths-based assessment approach while two sections were taught as usual. All participants completed measures of knowledge of psychological disorders and mental illness stigma at the beginning and end of the semester. Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge of disorders and a significant decrease in mental illness stigma with the exception of one category assessed (recovery), generally with small effect sizes. Those in the strengths group, compared to the control, showed a significantly greater decrease in mental illness stigma involving anxiety related to others with mental illness, though also with a small effect. Conclusion: Findings suggest strengths-based assessment education does not compromise the instruction of psychological disorders and is equivalent to a traditional abnormal psychology course in reducing mental illness stigma. Teaching Implications: Such an approach may be beneficial early in students' education to reduce mental illness stigma and promote comprehensive assessment practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper purpose was to analyze the present situation of the mountain areas in Romania from a sociodemographic, economic and environmental point of view in order to identify the main positive and negative aspects and to establish what objectives and measures have to be considered for assuring the sustainable development of the mountain regions in the coming future. The statistical data provided by Eurostat, FAO, National Institute of Statistics and National Agency for Mountain Areas were statistically processed in their dynamics using trend regression equations, graphical illustration and comparisons. The results pointed out that the Carpathians cover 37.8% of Romania's area and are predominantly rural. The share of the mountain municipalities is just 37.8%(12th position in Europe), the residents account for 5.53 million (6th position) meaning 25% in the total population (11th position), agriculture (mainly animal growing) and forestry are the main activities. In 2021, in the mountain regions there were registered 3,147 producers who carried out 1,164 mountain products, the highest weight belonging to vegetal, dairy and beekeeping products whose sale was assured by 135 Local Gastronomic Points. The contribution of the mountain areas to GDP was Euro 48.7 million, for which Romania came on the 8th position among other European countries. The actual challenges the mountain areas are facing are: the decline and aging of the population, migration of young people to the cities, weak infrastructure, livestock decrease, grasslands degradation, weak promotion of mountain products, lack of connectivity and communication between settlements, a low valorization of the natural and human resources. In consequence, as the Mountain Law provides, it is needed a new approach regarding the development of the mountain economy by valorizing in a more effective way all the resources, paying attention to the diversification of the activities, creating new jobs, stimulating entrepreneurship to increase production (agriculture, forestry, handicrafts etc) and encourage more services (education, medical, cultural, tourism, trade, credit etc), facilities for supporting young people to remain in the localities of origin, improving infrastructure (roads, bridges, houses and village restoration, connectivity to IT and mobile network, digitalization etc), involving both the local authorities and all the residents to intensify their efforts to support the mountain areas in their way to a sustainable development upwards 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers have emphasized the detrimental effects of COVID-19 on mental health, but less attention has been given to personal strengths promoting resilience during the pandemic. One strength might be gratitude, which supports wellbeing amidst adversity. A two-wave examination of 201 college students revealed anxiety symptom severity increased to a lesser extent from pre-COVID (January–March 2020) to onset-COVID (April 2020) among those who reported greater pre-COVID gratitude. A similar trend appeared for depression symptom severity. Gratitude was also correlated with less negative changes in outlook, greater positive changes in outlook, and endorsement of positive experiences resulting from COVID-19. Thematic analysis showed "strengthened interpersonal connections" and "more time" were the most commonly reported positive experiences. Overall findings suggest gratitude lessened mental health difficulties and fostered positivity at the onset of the pandemic, but more research is needed to determine whether gratitude and other strengths promote resilience as COVID-19 continues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Accounting & Financial Studies Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The novel combination of friction stir processing (FSP) and additive manufacturing (AM) is studied herein. Laser‐based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF‐LB/M) is used to establish 316 L stainless steel with a bimodal microstructure. Upon FSP, the as‐built bimodal microstructure with an average grain size of 179 μm is transformed into the unimodal microstructure containing ultrafine grains with an average grain size of 1.2 μm. Results obtained by mechanical testing reveal that after FSP; the hardness, the yield point, and the ultimate strength of additively manufactured 316 L are enhanced by 45%, 77%, and 62%, respectively. Microstructure assessment reveals that such a unique improvement in the mechanical properties is due to considerable structural refinement leading to grain boundary strengthening. Energy‐dispersive X‐Ray diffraction analysis reveals that phase transformation does not occur upon FSP. Fracture analysis further indicates that severe plastic deformation (SPD) during FSP can promote the transformation of coarse voids to fine voids and, hence, densification of as‐built parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Technology of Education Journal (TEJ) is the property of Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article outlines how mature teachers perceive the strengths and challenges in everyday schoolwork. The presented analyzes are based on 14 individual in-dep Thinterviews (IDI) wiThteachers who have many years of work experience in school (minimum 20) and are over 50 years old. In the research, I used thematic analysis. In addition, I coded the data using the inductive approach. I selected four categories of thematic threads that define the advantages of a mature teacher. The respondents described themselves not only through the prism of individual characteristics but also through various types of competencies (e.g. didactic and methodological), the ethos of the profession and the specificity of the period of life. At the same time, they pointed to the difficulties associated with many years of work in the domain - health problems, contemporary challenges and many years of professional experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Thirty percent of Thai medical students experienced depression. Two of the crucial factors related to depression involved borderline personality disorder symptoms and adverse family experiences, while positive strengths were documented to prevent depression. This study aimed to investigate the role of perseverance and meditation on depression; Methods: Two hundred and forty−three medical student participants completed the following measurements: the core symptom index (CSI−D) to measure depression, the family climate questionnaire to measure family experience, the personality disorder questionnaire to measure borderline personality disorder symptoms, and the inner strength−based inventory to measure perseverance and meditation. In the analysis, depression served as an outcome, adverse family climate as a predictor and borderline personality disorder symptoms as a mediator. In contrast, perseverance and meditation were moderators in the mediation model. Mediation and moderation analysis using PROCESS was applied for testing the direct and indirect effects; Results: Among all, 49.38% were male, and the mean age was 22.76 years. Borderline personality disorder symptoms significantly mediated the relationship between adverse family climate and depression, B = 0.0608 (95%CI, 0.0301 to 0.1052). The variance explained by the mediation model was 43%. Meditation moderated the relationship between adverse family climate and borderline personality symptoms, whereas perseverance and meditation were found to be significant moderators for borderline personality disorder symptoms and depression. With two moderators in the mediation model, the indirect effect index was B = 0.0072 (95%CI, 0.0002 to 0.0160). The 49% of variances of depression were explained by the moderated mediation model; Conclusion: Borderline personality disorder symptoms are a crucial variable involving depression. Meditation practice has been demonstrated to be a buffer between negative family climate to borderline personality disorder symptoms and depressive symptoms, whereas perseverance buffers the effect of borderline personality disorder symptoms of depression. Further research on cultivating meditation and perseverance should be encouraged among those with negative family experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gharee for Economics & Administration Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The purpose of the current study was to examine Native American children and caregivers' perspectives of family and cultural strengths using photovoice and to identify lessons learned from the first‐ever implementation of intergenerational photovoice with Native Americans. Participants were Native American, low‐income caregivers (n = 6) and their children (n = 12) between the ages of 10 and 15 who participated in six photovoice sessions. The themes that emerged from photos and group discussion included myriad challenges faced by Native American families including exposure to community violence, substance abuse, and criminal offending and incarceration. Themes also emerged that highlighted the strengths of Native families that were used to overcome identified challenges, including religion/spirituality, engagement in traditional cultural practices (e.g., prayer, song, dance), healthy activities (e.g., running, meditation). These data provided foundational information that is currently being used, along with other data, to develop a culturally grounded, strengths‐focused, family‐based program (Tiwahe Wicagwicayapi [Strengthening/Growing Families in Lakota]) to prevent adverse childhood experiences. We also discuss the challenges of intergenerational photovoice and lessons learned to inform future intergenerational photovoice projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article discusses the impact of the different grain sizes of sand on the ultimate stress of hand-mixed cement-grouted sand modified with polycarboxylate ether-based polymer using two different test standards (American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and British Standards (BS)). The fresh and hardened properties of cement-grouted sands modified with polymer up to 0.16% (% wt. of dry cement) were tested and quantified. Five types of sand with different grain sizes were used in this study. Adding polymer decreased the water/cement ratio ( w / c ) by 21.9 to 54.1%, and it kept the flow time of the cement-based grout in the range of 18 to 23 s. The highest compression strength was achieved at seven and 28 days for the cement-grouted sand using the coarser-graded sand than finer-graded sand at low w/c varied between 0.50 and 0.53. The highest compression strength was obtained at high w/c ranged between 0.57 and 0.60 for the cement grout mixed with the fine-grained sands compared to coarse-grained sands. Adding polymer enhances the prismatic and cylindrical compressive strength significantly by 113 to 577% and 53 to 459% depending on mix proportion and curing period. Adding polymer creates an amorphous gel that fills the porous between the particles of the cement, which causes a reduction in the voids, porosity and enhanced the dry density of the cement; subsequently, the compression strength of the cement-grouted sands increased significantly. Several approaches such as linear regression, nonlinear regression (NLR), multiple linear regression, artificial neural network (ANN), and M5P-tress were employed to predict the compression strength of cement-grouted sand with a different grain size of sand, w/c, amount of polymer, and curing age. From the scatter index and OBJ assessments and based on training and testing datasets, the compressive strength of the cement-grouted sands can be predicted well by using NLR and ANN models. The compression strength following the BS standard was 71% larger than the compression strength of the same mix using the ASTM standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]