Positive Image Research Articles

Abstract 2425: AI-powered approaches accurately predict t(11;14) positive multiple myeloma from H&E-stained histologic sections by identifying regions demonstrating lymphoplasmacytic cytology

Abstract Venetoclax, a highly selective oral BCL-2 inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in patients with t(11;14) multiple myeloma (MM). Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is the mainstay methodology to determine t(11;14) status, but requires significant quantities of bone marrow tissue or aspirate and is low-throughput. Herein, we: (i) describe an artificial intelligence (AI)-based model that accurately predicts t(11;14) status from routine H&E-stained MM whole slide images (WSIs) and (ii) demonstrate that the biological signal underlying the model predictions is driven by regions containing the lymphoplasmacytic phenotype of t(11;14) positive MM cells. H&E-stained MM WSIs (n=231) with known t(11;14) status were split into training/validation/test sets (60/20/20), and CNN-based tissue and cell segmentation models were trained from expert pathologist annotations to identify high density regions of MM cells. Additive multiple instance learning (aMIL) models with 5-fold cross validation were then trained using embeddings from pathology universal transformer (PLUTO) foundation model backbone [1], to predict t(11;14) status. To interpret the biological signal underlying aMIL model predictions, nuclear features [2] for MM cells and sparse autoencoder (SAE) dimensions [3] (based on PLUTO embeddings) were extracted from the model-predicted t(11;14) positive and negative regions. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare distribution of nuclear features between t(11;14) positive and negative regions. Activation frequency (AF) delta (AF in positive images - AF in negative images) was used to find the SAE dimensions most active in t(11;14) positive regions. Validation and held-out test sets were leveraged to evaluate the aMIL model’s performance for predicting t(11;14) status, resulting in AUROC of 0.813 and 0.849, respectively. Upon investigating the regions predicted as t(11;14) positive, analyses revealed that these contained MM cell nuclei with higher circularity, solidity and less variability in shape and size (p-values<0.001 for all comparisons) compared to those predicted as t(11;14) negative. Additionally, SAE dimensions capturing circular cells (SAE-2202) and lymphocytes (SAE-1567, SAE-1355) were significantly more active in model-predicted t(11;14) positive images compared to the predicted negative images (AF delta- SAE-2202: 0.73, SAE-1567: 0.61, SAE-1355: 0.57). t(11;14) status can be predicted with high accuracy using routine H&E WSI. Model predictions rely on biologically meaningful signals based on regions containing MM cells with lymphoplasmacytic morphology. This technology has the potential to facilitate screening for t(11;14)-directed MM clinical trials.

Corporate Communication Strategy in Building Corporate Identity (A Study on RH Petrogas Company in Indonesia)

This study aims to analyze how the corporate identity and corporate communication strategies of RH Petrogas contribute to building the company's image, as well as how internal and external communication influence employees' understanding of the company's identity. Employing a qualitative approach with a case study method, the research reveals that while the company's external communication strategy has successfully built a positive reputation among stakeholders, internal communication still faces challenges in disseminating a consistent understanding of the company's values and philosophy to all employee levels. The findings indicate that many employees, particularly at the operational level, have not fully grasped the deeper meaning of the company's identity elements due to the lack of effective socialization and internal communication. Therefore, this study recommends improving the internal communication strategy to be more interactive and involve various organizational layers to enhance employees' comprehension and engagement with the company's corporate identity. To address these challenges, the study suggests that RH Petrogas should invest in more robust internal communication initiatives, such as implementing interactive forums, regular town hall meetings, and tailored training programs to ensure the company's values, philosophy, and identity are consistently understood and embraced by all employees across the organization. This is crucial for ensuring all employees can understand and internalize the company's corporate identity, enabling them to contribute more effectively in building the company's positive image among stakeholders.

The Cult Personality of Siberia: Construction of the Image of G. N. Potanin in Biographical Sources (History and Modernity)

The study aims to identify and demonstrate the methods and forms of representing the image of the leader of the Siberian regionalists’ movement – G. N. Potanin in biographic. The objectives of the work involve establishing the dynamics of reproduction of the positive image of the educator as a cult figure of Siberia in biographical sources. The methodological platform is the paradigms developed by the French historian J. Revel, who understands biographies as a subjective but unique historical source. The historical and anthropological approach was also important. The toolkit allows us to identify the private and the special in the life and work of the founder of regionalism. The article shows that the authors of the biographies had their own attitudes and varying degrees of involvement in the life and socio-political activities of the outstanding Siberian. This group of written sources is characterized by a variety of narratives about the significance of the educator’s personality. Representative practices, as well as the methods and markers of constructing the image of Grigory Nikolaevich Potanin, have undergone a certain evolution. In pre-revolutionary times, the main narratives were about the individual virtues of the famous Siberian, and about his travels. In Soviet times, biographers were little interested in the personality of G. N. Potanin, emphasizing his professional achievements. At present, there is a high interest in the legacy of the educator. In biographies, the image of the ideologist of regionalism as a multifaceted scientist, educator and public figure of Siberia is updated.

Sustainable development of low-income low-rise housing in Sri Lanka: Issues and challenges

This study examines sustainability challenges in low-income, low-rise housing projects in Colombo, Sri Lanka, amid a severe housing crisis. Using a qualitative explorative approach, it investigates projects over 20 years old, including Gunasinghapura in Premchandra Mawatha, Mihindu Mawatha, and Torrington. Data were gathered through observations and semi-structured interviews, focusing on technical, management, legal, and social issues, and analyzed using 21 indicators of economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Participants included two housing experts from Urban Development Auhtority (UDA), one professional from National Housing Development Authority, Narahenpita Police Crime Branch official, and three household per project, selected via judgmental sampling. Descriptive and thematic methods were used for data analysis. The findings reveal that technical issues like physical defects, accessibility barriers, and inadequate infrastructure pose safety risks and degrade residents' quality of life, increasing repair costs, reducing property values, and causing environmental problems. Management challenges, such as lack of awareness, ineffective governance, and poor maintenance strategies, lead to resident dissatisfaction and hinder sustainable development. Legal complexities and unauthorized constructions exacerbate these issues, correlating with economic impacts from legal disputes and compliance costs, and highlighting environmental challenges in land use and urban planning. Concerns about privacy and mental health have been heightened by social issues like crime, substance misuse, vandalism, and the inappropriate use of communal areas. These problems lead to increased healthcare expenses, decreased productivity, and a negative public image, which ultimately threaten the sustainability of low-income housing initiatives. Thus, Study emphasizes the need to invest in infrastructure upgrades, community education, improved accessibility, enhanced security, and robust legal frameworks. Future studies should focus on developing evaluation frameworks and tackling similar challenges in housing projects for higher-income groups. JBIP, Vol. 17, 2024, pp. 137-156

The Diagnostic Value of Point-of-Care Ultrasonography in the Differential Diagnosis of Azoospermia: Introducing a Concept

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and reliability of point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) in the differential diagnosis of azoospermia. Materials and methods: Records of 175 patients who had previously been diagnosed with normal-volume, normal-PH azoospermia and who had undergone surgical sperm retrieval were reviewed retrospectively. Patients’ preoperative evaluations included a comprehensive history and physical examination and a routine scrotal POCUS performed during their initial consultation by a non-radiologist treating andrologist in a clinic setting. Positive scrotal imaging revealed ectasia of the rete testis and/or dilation of the epididymal ductules. Based on their preoperative assessments, patients were guided to undergo either testicular sperm aspiration (TESA)/microsurgical sperm aspiration (MESA) procedures for those with suspected obstructive azoospermia (OA) or microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) for those with suspected non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Results: Of the 175 patients, 58 patients had normal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels (≤12 IU/L) and normal testicular volume. Thirty of them had no secondary signs of obstruction in their scrotal POCUS and subsequently underwent micro-TESE. All were confirmed to have NOA. Twenty-eight patients demonstrated at least two secondary signs of obstruction on scrotal POCUS. Of these, 15 underwent TESA, and 13 underwent MESA procedures. Twenty-seven patients were confirmed to have OA, and one was confirmed as having NOA. Among this cohort of men, the sensitivity of scrotal POCUS in diagnosing OA was 100%, whereas the specificity was 96.8%. Positive and negative predictive values (PPVs and NPVs) were 96.4 and 100%, respectively. Conclusions: Scrotal POCUS is an effective clinical diagnostic tool for distinguishing obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia. Being noninvasive, safe, and affordable makes it an ideal bedside clinical tool that can serve the skilled non-radiologist clinician reliably.

Analisis Peran <i>Corporate Social Responsibility</i> (CSR) dalam Membangun Citra Positif Bank Syariah di Indonesia

This research examines the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in shaping a positive image of Islamic banks in Indonesia, employing a literature review approach to gather and analyze various relevant literature sources. The thematic analysis method was applied to identify patterns and themes that emerged from data related to CSR implementation and public perceptions of Islamic banks. The research results indicate that effective CSR implementation not only enhances the image and reputation of Islamic banks but also fosters customer loyalty and public trust. CSR programs that focus on economic empowerment, education, and health have been proven to have a significant positive impact, as well as creating mutually beneficial relationships between banks and the community. Thus, the integration of CSR in the business strategy of Islamic banks is very important for long-term sustainability and growth.

A Power-Cardioid candidate for wind direction modelling motivated by two South African case studies

Wind energy claims a positive image globally; therefore, accurate modelling of wind direction at generation sites accurately can enhance the potential of this green energy source. The uncertain nature of wind direction can be modelled through probability distributions; in this paper, we propose a flexible yet simple distribution, namely the Power-Cardioid distribution, as an alternative and implementable candidate to model wind direction. After discussing some characteristics, the performance of the Power-Cardioid distribution is evaluated via a simulation study and applied to datasets of two wind farms in South Africa. The numerical results demonstrate that this distribution is a promising and exciting new candidate compared to well-known models within circular statistics.

Promoting a positive investment image of the country. Russian practice

The author examines the theoretical basis for the formation of the country’s investment image based on the analysis of Russian practice, shows key aspects and tools for promoting Russia as an attractive destination for foreign investment, including the role of government policy, international forums and digital promotion strategies; analyzes successful examples from other countries (Singapore, UAE, USA and China). The article provides recommendations on how to improve Russia’s investment image.

Art and Activism… Challenging the Manosphere: Changing Perspectives on Relationships From a Boys and Young Men’s Perspective

Teaching relationship education (RSE) can be a challenge in schools, and teachers in England are being encouraged to challenge “incel” culture and misogyny through the relationship, sex and health education (RSHE) curriculum within schools (Adams et al 2023). One in six boys aged six to 15 in the UK have heard of Andrew Tate, a social media influencer and self-styled "king of toxic masculinity", and 23% of boys aged 13-15 have a positive image of him (YouGov, 2023). Educational policy recommendations around Prevent and surveillance are designed to counteract boys’ and young men being radicalised into the ‘manosphere’. However, there’s limited research how effective this is (Stahl, et al 2022), and how able teachers are to raise questions about toxic masculinity within a school environment. Between 2012 -2020 we delivered relationship education in schools in Greater Merseyside, UK. This paper presents findings from three all boys schools, working with 72 boys aged 14-15 on a domestic violence and abuse (DVA) prevention project, after the project the boys delivered school assemblies on health and unhealthy relationships to 550 of their peers. The paper presents a case study based on our experiences of using arts and drama to deliver workshop sessions that challenged negative gendered perspectives of relationships. We gathered rich qualitative data during the project which enabled us to explore and understand how the boys’ perceived gender and relationships. We argue arts-based methods can be an effective form of activism to engage boys and young men in discussions of masculinities, relationships, consent and gendered violence. Art enabled the boys and young men to express themselves through creative methods, and workshops explored issues around consent, clothing, and victim blaming, domestic abuse, football related violence, and male rape. We explored the role social media plays in reinforcing, and challenging, negative gender stereotypes and future relationships. It demonstrates the value of the arts as a tool for exploring the social world, especially sensitive topics such as domestic abuse and relationship education.

Clinical characteristics of pancreatic cancer presenting with acute pancreatitis: a propensity-matched cohort study.

The symptoms of pancreatic cancer (PC) are usually nonspecific or absent, and the early diagnosis remains challenging. 7-14% of PC patients present initially with acute pancreatitis (AP). This study aims to distinguish the PC patients initially presenting with AP from simple AP patients, further evaluating the role of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in the early diagnosis. We retrospectively evaluated 1376 consecutive patients with AP between 2010 and 2023.To overcome selection bias, we used propensity score matching between PC patients initially presenting with AP and non-cancer-related AP patients. Clinical information, especially EUS were collected for comparison. After matching, 72 patients (PC group) and 216 patients (AP group) were included. The unknown etiology in the PC group was significantly higher than that in the AP group (54.2% vs. 27.8%). Regarding initial symptoms, non-cancer-related AP patients exhibited significantly more abdominal distension, vomiting and fever compared to the PC group (p < 0.05). In terms of lab results, PC group patients had lower serum amylase (p < 0.001), but higher CA19-9, CA72-4, and CA242 levels when compared to AP group patients (p < 0.001). Additionally, AP group patients had more systematic and local complications, and the severity of AP was much higher than that of PC group patients. Moreover, PC patients exhibited more frequent imaging findings, such as pancreatic duct dilation or atrophy, and enlarged lymph nodes (p < 0.05). Notably, the EUS examination in PC patients missing diagnosis initially and PC patients presenting with relapsed AP showed more sensitive results and more detective rates. Pancreatic cancer patients presenting initially with acute pancreatitis tend to exhibit mild, recurrent pancreatitis than common AP patients. EUS holds potential diagnostic value in detecting pancreatic cancer in patients with initially negative cross-sectional imaging and recurrent pancreatitis.

“Making Choices for Yourself”: A Qualitative Visual Methods Study on Adolescent Boys’ Autonomy in Physical Activity

Understanding the factors that promote and discourage physical activity among adolescent boys is critical for their long-term health and well-being. This qualitative study investigates the influence of autonomy on physical activity, emphasizing the importance of choice and volition while considering how masculinities shape motivations and behaviors. Utilizing innovative visual methods across two time periods, 13 boys in the UK aged 13 to 17 participated in photo-elicitation interviews. Initial interviews involved researcher-led photo-boards depicting motivational topics and physical activities. Participants were then asked to take photographs of what motivates them to be active, which were discussed in follow-up interviews 2 to 12 weeks later. This approach facilitated the co-construction of data and findings between participants and the researcher. Reflexive thematic analysis, framed by Self-Determination Theory and masculinity theories, revealed that perceived autonomy significantly influences adolescent boys’ motivation to participate in physical activity. This study highlights the pressure on boys to conform to hegemonic masculine sports environments. Boys in our study who felt restricted by these expectations either sought alternative forms of physical activity or withdrew altogether. In contrast, boys who experienced autonomy over their physical activity choices reported higher intrinsic motivation. We advocate tailoring programs to offer a range of physical activities that accommodate different preferences and gendered behavior. Addressing rigid masculine expectations and ensuring inclusivity in physical activity will help promote active lifestyles, boost self-esteem, and support positive body image for all adolescent boys.

Influence Policy Corporate Social Responsibility to Intention Buy Starbucks Coffee Brand Image In Kediri

This study aims to examine the influence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies on purchase intention and brand image of Starbucks Coffee in Kediri. As a globally recognized brand, Starbucks has demonstrated a consistent commitment to CSR, which plays a key role in shaping consumer perceptions. Using a quantitative research method, data were collected through questionnaires distributed to Starbucks consumers in Kediri. The findings reveal that CSR policies implemented by Starbucks have a significant positive effect on its brand image. Additionally, these policies also positively influence consumers' purchase intentions. This indicates that consumers are more likely to purchase Starbucks products when they perceive the company to have a strong and genuine CSR commitment. The positive brand image fostered by CSR initiatives directly contributes to increased consumer interest and loyalty toward the brand. These results underscore the strategic value of CSR in enhancing brand reputation and driving consumer behavior. For Starbucks management, maintaining and developing CSR programs can be a powerful tool in sustaining market presence and customer engagement. Furthermore, the research offers insights for other companies aiming to build strong brand equity through responsible business practices. Emphasizing CSR not only contributes to social and environmental well-being but also provides a competitive advantage in influencing consumer purchase decisions.

COMMUNICATION STRATEGY OF UKRAINIAN BUSINESS EXPORTERS IN THE CONTEXT OF GEOPOLITICAL CHALLENGES

The article provides a theoretical and methodological grounds for the communication strategy for exporters as an integral component of business promotion in the international market; systematizes the main determinants which influence the formation of a communication strategy, namely, target audience segmentation and profiling, optimal means of information transmission selection, key messages, assessment of the communication and marketing strategy effectiveness, including a set of measures ensuring clear, consistent and attractive communication. Besides, it analyzes the challenges and problems of Ukrainian exporters in the international market, including the imperfection of infrastructure, insufficient development of financial mechanisms to support exporters, the dependence of the dynamics of Ukrainian exports on changes in the world market conditions and high import dependence, currency fluctuations, political situation and changes in international trade agreements; presents analytical information on Ukrainian commodity exports in conditions of instability in the world markets of agricultural and metallurgical products. A certain set of tools for implementing an international communication strategy is proposed, in particular, participation in exhibitions, digital and content marketing, PR companies to build a positive image and of national product brands which emphasize USP and competitiveness in the foreign market. The article concludes that the communication strategy of Ukrainian business exporters requires a detailed study of local conditions, cultural, demographic, psychological and economic factors which give opportunity for a more accurate determination of international consumers needs and priorities, in other words, a strategic rethinking of export orientation policy and its adaptation in the context of geopolitical challenges.

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR: STRATEGIC PLANNING AND AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT

The article is devoted to the study of international marketing in the agricultural sector, particularly strategic planning and agribusiness management in the context of globalization and increasing competition. The relevance of the research topic is driven by the need to enhance the competitiveness of Ukrainian agricultural products in the global market, adapt to changes in the economic environment, and implement innovative approaches to marketing activities. The research is based on the analysis of modern trends in international marketing in the agricultural sector, assessment of key challenges and opportunities for Ukrainian agribusinesses. A comprehensive approach is applied, including market condition analysis, research of factors affecting product competitiveness, and evaluation of the effectiveness of various marketing strategies. It has been established that the effective use of marketing strategies contributes to market expansion, increased product recognition, and the formation of a positive image of domestic producers. The study examines key aspects of strategic planning, such as market segmentation, selection of optimal distribution channels, and the implementation of innovative marketing approaches. Particular attention is given to the impact of military actions on Ukraine's export potential. It is noted that disruptions in logistics chains, currency market instability, and rising production costs create additional barriers for Ukrainian agribusinesses to enter international markets. At the same time, crisis conditions stimulate the search for new marketing solutions, including market diversification, the development of e-commerce, and the active use of digital marketing tools. The practical value of the study lies in determining effective strategic marketing planning approaches in the agricultural sector. These approaches can help Ukrainian enterprises expand their presence in international markets, attract foreign investments, enhance the global competitiveness of Ukrainian products, strengthen trade partnerships, and contribute to international food security by ensuring stable and sustainable agricultural production.

Strategies for Promoting Education in Student Recruitment in Pesantren

This study was conducted at Pondok Pesantren Darul Mursyidi Sialogo, Angkola Barat District, South Tapanuli Regency, using a qualitative approach. The research aims to obtain descriptive data through observation, interviews, and documentation. Primary data were collected directly from the school principal and teachers, while secondary data came from various written sources. The data analysis was carried out in three stages: data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that the pesantren's promotion strategies for recruiting new students include school outreach, the use of brochures and banners, collaboration with community leaders, and the use of social media. Recruitment efforts are also supported by religious lectures and Friday sermons. Furthermore, the roles of teachers, students, and parents are essential in promoting student admissions. The implemented recruitment strategies are divided into three stages: (1) promotion through print and digital media, (2) student selection based on religious aptitude, and (3) socialization to help new students adapt to the pesantren environment. These strategies have proven effective, as evidenced by the increasing number of new students each year. The study concludes that the success of student recruitment at Pondok Pesantren Darul Mursyidi Sialogo is closely linked to the synergy between the pesantren, educators, students, parents, and community leaders. This collaboration contributes to building a positive image of the pesantren as a high-quality Islamic educational institution.

Journey to the east: Eduardo Galeano’s voyage to the New China in 1963

ABSTRACT During the Sixties, amid the ideological strife of the global Cold War, the Communist Party of China (CPC) pursued People’s Diplomacy, a foreign policy aimed at deepening cultural exchanges with regions like Latin America to expand its global influence. Uruguayan journalist Eduardo Galeano, a prominent figure of the New Left and critic of imperialism, traveled to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in September 1963. His subsequent book, China 1964: Crónica de un Desafío, captured his experiences and furnished positive images of the PRC, aligning with the CPC’s objectives in its struggle against revisionism. This article uses Galeano’s journey as a case study to explore the cultural exchanges between the PRC and Uruguay, set against the backdrop of the Global Sixties. It argues that Galeano’s travelogue not only provided a window into the PRC for Latin American readers but also offered a nuanced perspective that transcended the binary East-West dichotomy, reflecting a more complex understanding of the PRC’s role in the world. Drawing on primary sources, including Galeano’s writings and Chinese officials’ perceptions, this research offers a unique analysis of Galeano’s experience, highlighting the complexities and nuances of cultural diplomacy during a pivotal era in international relations.

Kunlun Nu: Translation and Character Analysis of a Tang Dynasty Martial Arts Classic

This article presents a groundbreaking English semantic translation of the classic ancient literary novel Kunlun Nu, a martial arts work by Pei Xing, a renowned writer of the Tang Dynasty. The study employs quantitative analysis using the time series method to examine the character images in the English semantic translation of Kunlun Nu. A bubble diagram, a key descriptive tool in time series analysis, is utilized to analyze three variables: Plot, Positive and Negative Image, and Quantity of Character Qualities. This framework is applied to the four main characters of Kunlun Nu, assessing them in terms of the quantity of character qualities (flat characters or round characters), character development dynamics (static characters or developmental characters), and character impact (protagonist and antagonist). The results provide a comprehensive analysis of character portrayal and development in this seminal work. The findings offer fresh insights into the complexities of character roles and relationships in Kunlun Nu, contributing to a deeper understanding of the narrative's structural and thematic intricacies in translation.

Body Image and Self-Esteem in Indian and Italian University Students: Cross-Cultural Insights for Psychiatric Well-Being

Body image and self-esteem are central to psychological health and have been identified as contributing factors in the development and maintenance of psychiatric conditions such as eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. This study investigates the relationship between these variables among university students in India and Italy, contributing to the understanding of how cultural contexts shape these psychological constructs in adult populations. The sample consisted of 767 participants (391 from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and 376 from University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli), aged 18 and above. Participants completed standardized measures, namely the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Body Investment Scale, and Body Uneasiness Test, through paper-based questionnaires administered in controlled settings. Indian students reported higher self-esteem and more positive body image compared to their Italian counterparts, who exhibited lower self-esteem and higher body dissatisfaction. Across both groups, higher self-esteem was strongly associated with lower body uneasiness. Regression analyses revealed high self-esteem significantly predicted positive body attitudes, with stronger protective effects among Italian participants. Indian students demonstrated broader resilience, potentially linked to cultural values. The findings contribute to psychiatry by emphasizing self-esteem and body image as culturally sensitive psychological constructs that may influence vulnerability to psychiatric distress in young adults. Understanding these factors can support prevention and early intervention strategies in student populations, particularly regarding body dissatisfaction, emotional regulation, and self-concept.

Enhancing Fine-Grained Vision-Language Pretraining with Negative Augmented Samples

Existing Vision-Language Pretraining (VLP) methods have achieved remarkable improvements across a variety of vision-language tasks, confirming their effectiveness in capturing coarse-grained semantic correlations. However, their capability for fine-grained understanding, which is critical for many nuanced vision-language applications, remains limited. Prevailing VLP models often overlook the intricate distinctions in expressing different modal features and typically depend on the similarity of holistic features for cross-modal interactions. Moreover, these models directly align and integrate features from different modalities, focusing more on coarse-grained general representations, thus failing to capture the nuanced differences necessary for tasks demanding a more detailed perception. In response to these limitations, we introduce Negative Augmented Samples(NAS), a refined vision-language pretraining model that innovatively incorporates NAS to specifically address the challenge of fine-grained understanding. NAS utilizes a Visual Dictionary(VD) as a semantic bridge between visual and linguistic domains. Additionally, it employs a Negative Visual Augmentation(NVA) method based on the VD to generate challenging negative image samples. These samples deviate from positive samples exclusively at the token level, thereby necessitating that the model discerns the subtle disparities between positive and negative samples with greater precision. Comprehensive experiments validate the efficacy of NAS components and underscore its potential to enhance fine-grained vision-language comprehension.

Body image flexibility and embodiment in eating disorders: a mixed-methods approach combining network analysis and pilot exposure protocol

ObjectiveBody image (BI) disturbances are central to the psychopathology of eating disorders (EDs), where body dissatisfaction and disembodiment often co-occur, exacerbating negative body image experiences. We aimed to examine body image flexibility and embodiment in women with EDs and a general population (GP) sample.MethodData were collected from 172 participants, including 103 GP women and 69 women with EDs. Standardized questionnaires measuring body uneasiness, interoceptive awareness, and body image acceptance were administered. Additionally, a pilot group therapy intervention targeting body image concerns was evaluated with 24 ED participants.ResultsFindings suggest that significant differences in embodiment-related features emerged (self-regulation and body trust), while both groups reported similar levels of interoceptive awareness. Network analysis revealed distinct patterns of partial correlations between variables within each group, with higher centrality for body image concerns and weight phobia in EDs. In contrast, the GP group exhibited stronger connections between embodiment features such as attention regulation and body image acceptance. The pilot intervention showed promise in improving body image flexibility and reducing body image concerns.ConclusionsThese results underscore the importance of fostering body image flexibility and embodiment in the clinical treatment of EDs, suggesting potential pathways for enhancing therapeutic interventions.