Search Results (697)

This study explores the relationship between borderline personality disorder (BPD) symptoms, measured using the Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23), and experiences of covert social violence, assessed via the Inventory of Covert Social Violence Against Women (IVISEM) and an open-ended survey given to 99 adults diagnosed with BPD. Quantitative data revealed significant emotional intensity, with a mean BSL-23 score of 56.81 (SD = 20.31), and a positive correlation (r = 0.29, p < 0.0034) between symptom severity and the number of self-reported disorders. The qualitative analysis highlighted themes of ‘Stigmatization and Structural Violence’ and ‘Gender Expectations’, with 62.9% of participants reporting that their emotions were pathologized as hormonal or exaggerated. The results highlight the significant emotional intensity in participants, particularly related to shame and vulnerability, suggesting these emotions are linked to structural violence perpetuated by patriarchal norms, including covert social violence. Biological explanations for emotionality, such as references to “hormonal” changes and “menstruation”, reinforce the idea that women’s intense emotions are natural, overlooking broader societal and structural factors. The results underscore the impact of the patriarchal structure, emphasizing the need for psychological approaches that address both the symptoms of BPD and the impact of societal and structural violence on women’s emotional health. The study sample underscores the main idea of the study: BPD is predominantly diagnosed in women, which underlines the need to rethink diagnostic tools and professional interventions. These results highlight the need for a feminist critique of the BSL-23 by showing how emotional symptoms are often interpreted through a gendered lens, emphasizing the importance of re-evaluating diagnostic tools to address the impact of societal and structural violence on women’s mental health. Full article

This pilot study investigated how viewers perceive Monica Geller’s personality using three evidence-based personality models: Big Five, HEXACO, and Cloninger’s Biopsychosocial Model. Additionally, it examined how these perceptions are associated to audiences’ engagement in parasocial relationships with this iconic character from the sitcom Friends. A sample of sixty-three participants assessed Monica’s personality by responding to the Big Five Inventory (BFI), the HEXACO-60, and the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI-60). Participants also completed the Multidimensional Measure of Parasocial Relationships (MMPR). Personality scores were contextualized against U.S. population norms (N_BFI = 711, N_HEXACO = 1126, N_TCI = 1948) and Pearson correlations were conducted to explore associations between personality traits and the Affective, Behavioral, Cognitive, and Decisional dimensions of parasocial engagement. Normative comparisons revealed Monica’s perceived Openness and Agreeableness in the Big Five and her Openness and Agreeableness in the HEXACO as significantly below average, while her Big Five Neuroticism and her HEXACO Conscientiousness were significantly above average. In the Biopsychosocial Model, Monica’s Persistence was significantly higher than population norms, while Cooperativeness was significantly lower. Big Five Agreeableness showed correlations across all parasocial engagement dimensions. HEXACO Emotionality was strongly linked to the Affective and Behavioral dimensions, while Honesty–Humility was associated with Cognitive parasocial engagement. In the Biopsychosocial Model, Reward Dependence and Cooperativeness were associated with Cognitive and Affective parasocial engagement, while Self-Directedness was linked to the Behavioral dimension. The Biopsychosocial Model offered the most comprehensive insights, capturing the multidimensional nature of viewer–character engagement. The Big Five and HEXACO models added valuable perspectives, particularly in explaining that traits associated with trust and kindness are linked to decision making. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating multiple personality frameworks to advance the understanding of parasocial relationship engagement, shedding light on the nuanced ways personality traits shape audience perceptions and relationships with media characters, with significant implications for media psychology and personality research. Limitations and avenues for future developments are discussed, building on the insights from this pilot study. Full article

Our perspective paper focuses on the sociology of hope and is a call to action for health promotion policy makers to create the conditions for hopefulness in alcohol reduction policy, advocacy and programs for/with midlife women. Alcohol is a major risk factor for breast cancer, and high proportions of midlife women in most high-income countries drink at “risky” levels, increasing the chances of breast cancer (due to both age and alcohol consumption). At present, alcohol reduction approaches convey mostly individualised risk messages and imply personal responsibility for behaviour change, stripped from contexts, and heavy drinking persists among groups. New approaches that address the social norms, identities and practices that operate to sustain heavy drinking are necessary considering alcohol harms. We argue that focusing on changing these factors to support hopeful futures may create hope for midlife women to reduce alcohol consumption. We synthesise contemporary theories on the sociology of hope and analyse how these might help to refocus health promotion policy on hopefulness in the context of alcohol reduction and breast cancer prevention. We will draw on Freire’s notions of a Pedagogy of Oppression and a Pedagogy of Hope to show how enabling people to recognise and respond to the “oppressive forces” shaping their alcohol consumption might lead to more hopeful futures with reduced alcohol consumption for priority populations. Our focus on building hope into health-promoting alcohol reduction approaches intends to shift policy focus from the individual as the “problem” towards hope being a “solution”. Full article

This study scrutinizes the influence of “blame attribution” and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) on compliance with COVID-19 public health measures in Australia. This study elucidates that blaming individuals rather than governments surprisingly augments support for governmental regulations, highlighting the complexities of blame attribution in shaping public adherence to health policies. It underscores the nuanced roles of TPB elements like subjective norms and behavioural control, revealing that feelings of empowerment, social responsibility, and recognizing personal roles in pandemic control enhance the inclination to support governmental directives. The outcomes emphasize the criticality of understanding blame attribution and TPB dynamics for devising efficacious communication and management strategies, promoting societal adherence to essential regulations and actions during health crises, and fostering a more resilient societal infrastructure for dealing with pandemics. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex and progressive neurodegenerative condition with significant societal impact. Understanding the temporal dynamics of its pathology is essential for advancing therapeutic interventions. Empirical and anatomical evidence indicates that network decoupling occurs as a result of gray matter atrophy. However, the scarcity of longitudinal clinical data presents challenges for computer-based simulations. To address this, a first-principles-based, physics-constrained Bayesian framework is proposed to model time-dependent connectome dynamics during neurodegeneration. This temporal diffusion network framework segments pathological progression into discrete time windows and optimizes connectome distributions for biomarker Bayesian regression, conceptualized as a learning problem. The framework employs a variational autoencoder-like architecture with computational enhancements to stabilize and improve training efficiency. Experimental evaluations demonstrate that the proposed temporal meta-models outperform traditional static diffusion models. The models were evaluated using both synthetic and real-world MRI and PET clinical datasets that measure amyloid beta, tau, and glucose metabolism. The framework successfully distinguishes normative aging from AD pathology. Findings provide novel support for the “decoupling” hypothesis and reveal eigenvalue-based evidence of pathological destabilization in AD. Future optimization of the model, integrated with real-world clinical data, is expected to improve applications in personalized medicine for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

Overwhelming evidence suggests that we need to consume less and/or differently. Academic research and the popular media provide recommendations on what consumers should or should not do to live more sustainably. However, for the majority of consumers, the uptake of sustainable behaviours is low. Sustainable consumption finds itself in constant tension with mainstream ‘normal’ (unsustainable) behaviours. We not only need to understand more about sustainable consumption behaviours already undertaken (often by only a few consumers), but we also need a clearer picture of unsustainable consumption—the current behaviour that needs to be changed. We take a systemic approach to unsustainable consumption and, after an extensive literature review, develop a hierarchy of 25 unsustainable consumption behaviours that span multiple categories of everyday life, including the ‘big three’ (household energy use, food consumption, and personal transportation), recycling, cosmetics, and clothing purchases. Our results support that—for a broad sample of average consumers (n = 850)—unsustainable behaviours are cumulative and follow the same patterns. In everyday life, unsustainable behaviours of different categories are interspersed, supporting the need to explore multiple behaviours at the same time if systematic changes away from unsustainable consumption behaviours are required. It follows that we know in which order to address unsustainable consumption choices to move society towards more sustainable consumption norms. Full article

This study explores the integration of traditional African marriage customs with Catholic Canon Law in Nigeria, where cultural norms are deeply rooted. The research examines the historical, theological, and cultural dimensions that influence marriage within African Catholic contexts. Despite valuable insights from these scholars, significant challenges persist in reconciling traditional practices with Catholic sacramental rites. The article highlights critical areas needing further investigation, particularly the incorporation of culturally significant elements into Catholic marriage ceremonies and the provision of culturally sensitive pastoral care for married couples. To address these challenges, the study proposes several strategies: Cultural Hermeneutics, which promotes dialog between traditional African values and Catholic teachings; Inculturation of Liturgical Practices, which adapts Catholic wedding ceremonies to include African traditions; and Inclusive Pastoral Care, which offers compassionate and culturally informed support for couples. The research emphasizes the compatibility of African and Christian marital values, highlighting both personal and communal dimensions. It advocates for a shift from priest-centered marriage rites to elder-centered ones, increased involvement of extended families and Basic Christian Communities (BCCs), and a revision of church legislation to accommodate local customs while upholding core Gospel principles. By implementing these approaches, the Nigerian Catholic Church can create a marriage framework that honors cultural heritage while remaining true to Christian doctrine. Full article

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is essential for chewing and speaking functions, as well as for making facial expressions. However, this joint can be affected by disorders, known as temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), induced by complex causes that lead to limitations in daily activities. Building on the methodology and findings from our previous study on TMJ function, our research aims to apply the established criteria and norms to patients with TMDs. The primary goal is to evaluate the applicability and clinical relevance of these reference norms in predicting the severity and progression of TMJ disorders within a clinical population. Using non-invasive myotonic measurements, we evaluated 157 subjects, including both non-TMD-affected and TMD-affected individuals. To achieve optimal results, five primary parameters (frequency, stiffness, decrement, relaxation time, and creep) were analyzed using statistical–physical tools, providing quantitative functionality degrees across different previously examined clinical groups. The obtained results identified significant quantitative markers for early diagnosis and personalized treatment of TMJ disorders. This interdisciplinary approach leads to a deeper understanding of TMJ dysfunctions and makes a meaningful contribution to clinical practice, providing more precise tools for managing and treating this complex condition. Full article

International medical graduates (IMGs) account for 25% of the physician workforce in the United States, yet little is known about their professional identity formation (PIF). This qualitative study explores the process of PIF in IMG residents with special attention to how they integrate their intersectional marginalized personal identities. Method: Using a social constructivist approach, the researchers conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 15 IMG resident physicians in the United States. The authors analyzed the data using a constant comparison approach and identified themes by consensus. Results: Participants described their PIF journey beginning before starting residencies in the US. Their PIF was challenging due to structural barriers associated with their immigrant status. Furthermore, participants reported more difficulties with PIF if they did not look white. When their pre-existing professional and personal identities clashed with the American professional norm, the residents suppressed or compartmentalized these pre-existing identities. However, participants also reported that their diverse personal identities could be assets to the provision of care for diverse patient populations. Conclusions: This study reveals the identity tension experienced by IMGs in their PIF journey and the different strategies they employed to navigate the conflicts with American professional norms. This study suggests reimagining PIF frameworks to cultivate a more diverse physician workforce. Full article

Creating a conceptual unity is an important starting point for understanding a subject. It is more difficult to find a common definition if the concept in question is ‘religion, religiosity, secularism’, which can vary according to the field of the person making the definition, where he/she positions himself/herself in relation to religion, the characteristics of the religion he/she believes in (or does not believe in), and many other parameters. In order to draw the boundaries of this research correctly, it is necessary to clarify the development and changes in the concept of ‘religion’ and the related concepts of ‘religiosity and secularism’ in the historical process. Among the places where the effectiveness of these concepts at the theoretical level can be examined are the textbooks taught in Anatolian Imam Hatip High Schools. The nature or content of the fiqh textbooks taught in Imam Hatip High Schools, which can be exemplified as an educational institution of religious culture reinforcement in Turkey, is within the scope of this study. In connection with this subject, the aim of this study is to analyse the fiqh and fiqh reading textbooks taught in Anatolian Imam Hatip High Schools from the perspective of religiosity and secularism. Fiqh, from the perspective of Islamic theology, contains normative principles that govern personal and social practices. As textbooks, fiqh and fiqh readings were chosen because they are likely to provide data on the subject. This research employs a qualitative approach, utilising document analysis as its primary method to investigate these textbooks. The analysis is based on textbooks that were approved by the Ministry of National Education and taught during the 2023–2024 academic year. For the purposes of this study, only explicit verbal content was considered, while implicit messages were excluded. As a result of this study, it is understood that both books have a religiosity-centred perspective and that there are chapters in which changes are taken into consideration rather than secularism. Full article

Avoiding food waste has become an important global issue. Given the global impact of food waste and the profound influence of Generation Z on future development, it is crucial to guide them in cultivating awareness and behaviors to reduce food waste, thereby promoting sustainable development. Considering young consumers’ specific characteristics and consumption environment, this study extended the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework by adding two constructs of moral self-identity and scarcity mindset. An online survey was conducted, receiving 417 valid responses, and the data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. This study shows that subjective norms, attitudes, and perceived behavioral control positively influence Generation Z’s intentions to avoid food waste. Meanwhile, moral self-identity remarkably positively influences attitudes and perceived behavioral control, which in turn affects intention to avoid food waste. Moreover, the positive moderating role of scarcity mindset is verified. This study refines the exploration of food waste within the realm of the Generation Z group, and the findings are beneficial for relevant stakeholders to further develop personalized promotion strategies for Generation Z. Full article

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within Extended Reality (XR) technologies has the potential to revolutionize user experiences by creating more immersive, interactive, and personalized environments. Nevertheless, the complexity and opacity of AI systems raise significant concerns regarding the transparency of data handling, reasoning processes, and decision-making mechanisms inherent in these technologies. To address these challenges, the implementation of explainable AI (XAI) methods and techniques becomes imperative, as they not only ensure compliance with prevailing ethical, social, and legal standards, norms, and principles, but also foster user trust and facilitate the broader adoption of AI solutions in XR applications. Despite the growing interest from both research and practitioner communities in this area, there is an important gap in the literature concerning a review of XAI methods specifically applied and tailored to XR systems. On this behalf, this research presents a systematic literature review that synthesizes current research on XAI approaches applied within the XR domain. Accordingly, this research aims to identify prevailing trends, assess the effectiveness of various XAI techniques, and highlight potential avenues for future research. It then contributes to the foundational understanding necessary for the development of transparent and trustworthy AI systems for XR systems using XAI technologies while enhancing the user experience and promoting responsible AI deployment. Full article

For surveillance video management in university laboratories, issues such as occlusion and low-resolution face capture often arise. Traditional face recognition algorithms are typically static and rely heavily on clear images, resulting in inaccurate recognition for low-resolution, small-sized faces. To address the challenges of occlusion and low-resolution person identification, this paper proposes a new face recognition framework by reconstructing Retinaface-Resnet and combining it with Quality-Adaptive Margin (adaface). Currently, although there are many target detection algorithms, they all require a large amount of data for training. However, datasets for low-resolution face detection are scarce, leading to poor detection performance of the models. This paper aims to solve Retinaface’s weak face recognition capability in low-resolution scenarios and its potential inaccuracies in face bounding box localization when faces are at extreme angles or partially occluded. To this end, Spatial Depth-wise Separable Convolutions are introduced. Retinaface-Resnet is designed for face detection and localization, while adaface is employed to address low-resolution face recognition by using feature norm approximation to estimate image quality and applying an adaptive margin function. Additionally, a multi-object tracking algorithm is used to solve the problem of moving occlusion. Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements, achieving an accuracy of 96.12% on the WiderFace dataset and a recognition accuracy of 84.36% in practical laboratory applications. Full article

The discourse on understanding and implementing sustainable development has so far focused primarily on the external aspects, neglecting the internal dimension of people. The main purpose of our paper is to contribute to addressing this research gap. Therefore, we intend to (1) substantiate existing aspects of the Inner Development Goals (IDGs), (2) complement them, and (3) link the concept of the IDGs to normative discourses in Christian Social Ethics and Social Philosophy. Our results show that the dimensions of Being, Relating, and Collaborating in the IDG Framework can be substantiated by the normative discourse on spirituality and by reference to the social principle of personality in Christian Social Ethics, as well as by the Indian Social Philosophical Perspective of Vimala Thakar which focuses on a value-based approach. This paper suggests that the concept of the IDGs will be strengthened by adding the dimension of Caring—understood as the concern and responsibility for the wholeness in the combining of the inner and outer dimensions. By linking the concept of the Inner Development Goals to the existing normative discourses in Christian Social Ethics and Social Philosophy, our research contributes to making the concept connectable and deepens the discussions on a practical and theoretical level. Full article

Sensory evoked potentials (EPs), namely, somatosensory, visual, and brainstem acoustic EPs, are used in neurosurgery to monitor the corresponding functions with the aim of preventing iatrogenic neurological complications. Functional deficiency usually precedes structural defect, being initially reversible, and prompt alarms may help surgeons achieve this aim. However, sensory EP registration requires presenting multiple stimuli and averaging of responses, which significantly lengthen this procedure. As delays can make intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) ineffective, it is important to reduce EP recording time. The possibility of speeding up EP recording relies on differences between IONM and outpatient clinical neurophysiology (CN). Namely, in IONM, the patient is her/his own control, and the neurophysiologist is less constrained by norms and standards than in outpatient CN. Therefore, neurophysiologists can perform a personalized selection of optimal locations of recording electrodes, frequency filter passbands, and stimulation rates. Varying some or all of these parameters, it is often possible to significantly improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for EPs and accelerate EP recording by up to several times. The aim of this paper is to review how this personalized approach is or may be applied during IONM for recording sensory EPs of each of the abovementioned modalities. Also, the problems hindering the implementation and dissemination of this approach and options for overcoming them are discussed here, as well as possible future developments. Full article