Search Results (6,713)

Refugee mothers are at heightened risk of developing negative family dynamics due to traumatic experiences and unstable living conditions, often impacting their children in lasting ways. This partially mixed, explanatory mixed-methods pilot study examines the potential of Drama Therapy as a psychosocial intervention to reduce harmful parenting behaviors and strengthen parent–child relationships. The study engaged 20 refugee mothers who participated in a three-session intervention based on Emunah’s five-phase model. Data collection included pre-intervention demographic information, two standardized psychological scales—The Child–Parent Relationship Scale and the Parent Anger Scale—and post-intervention focus group discussions. The findings indicate that the Drama Therapy Intervention (DTI) helped reduce parental anger and improve emotional regulation, leading to more positive interactions with children and decreased conflict within the family. Focus group insights revealed that the mothers’ ongoing and past traumas significantly shaped their emotional responses and parenting styles. This pilot study highlights the importance of addressing maternal mental health in post-displacement contexts. Although one cannot draw causal inferences of efficacy in the absence of a control group, the findings provide preliminary evidence that Drama Therapy can be an effective tool for reducing parental maltreatment and improving family relationships among refugee populations. Full article

Background: Assistance dogs can support children with autism by improving emotional regulation and social functioning, but access is limited. The Family Dog Service was developed to help families of autistic children gain similar benefits through companion dogs. It offers tailored support for selecting, training, and integrating a dog into the home. This study explored parent perspectives on the service and perceived impacts of companion dogs. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among UK residents who attended Family Dog Service workshops. The survey included demographic data, mental health and wellbeing measures, and questions about human–animal interactions. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively; qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis. Results: Of 118 participants, 101 (85.6%) owned a dog, while 17 (14.4%) were considering acquisition. Most owners reported improvements in their child’s mood (75.2%; n = 76) and reduced anxiety-related behaviours (70.3%, n = 71) following dog acquisition. Nearly half (49.5%, n = 50) rated the child–dog relationship as ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ positive within the first month, increasing to 86.1% (n = 87) by the time of data collection. Families also reported enhanced dynamics and reduced caregiver stress. Despite some challenges, the service was valued for its autism-specific guidance and ongoing support. Conclusions: The Family Dog Service may offer a practical, accessible alternative to assistance dogs, supporting autistic children’s wellbeing and strengthening family relationships through positive interactions between children and their dogs. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study assessed how to best prepare pediatric and adolescent cancer patients for amputation and support them afterward. Methods: This pilot qualitative study explored pre- and post-amputation experiences from the perspectives of nine pediatric and adolescent survivors who underwent amputation. Hour-long audio-recorded semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analyzed using the Sort and Sift, Think and Shift qualitative approach. Results: Participants described the informational supports they received before surgery, including guidance on what to expect, contact with amputation-related organizations, and exposure to tangible tools, such as a physical model of a knee joint. Emotional support from fellow amputees and healthcare providers, particularly surgeons, was also found to be meaningful. Individuals also identified unmet needs and gaps in emotional care. These included clearer guidance on post-surgical adaptations (e.g., basic self-care and navigating physical limitations) and the need for information tailored to their learning styles. Many emphasized the importance of improved pain management resources, expanded access to mental health services for both them and their families, and support in adjusting to changes in body image and social relationships. Participants also shared advice for future patients, recommending strategies such as personalizing hospital rooms, connecting with other amputees through social media, and using art to process their experience and say goodbye to the lost limb. Conclusions: Interviews with nine cancer survivors provide guidance for improving holistic, patient-centered care throughout the amputation process. Informational and emotional support should be tailored to an individual’s learning style and specific needs, in addition to their age at the time of surgery. Full article

AT-hook motif nuclear-localized (AHL) proteins are pivotal in plant growth, development, and stress responses. Nevertheless, there is limited research on AHL proteins in Malus sieversii. Our study identified 25 AHL genes from the M. sieversii genome, named MsAHL1–MsAHL25. The encoded protein sequences had lengths ranging from 195 to 554 amino acids, molecular weights from 19.17 to 58.53 kDa, and isoelectric points from 4.67 to 10.09. Chromosomal mapping revealed that these 25 genes were unevenly distributed across 10 chromosomes. Collinearity analysis of AHL genes in M. sieversii implied that gene loss might have occurred during its evolution. The phylogenetic tree classified the AHL proteins of M. sieversii into two subfamilies, showing a close relationship with multiple proteins of M. domestica. Promoter analysis indicated that the AHL genes in M. sieversii harbored numerous stress- and hormone-responsive elements, suggesting their potential role in various stress responses. qRT-PCR analysis of six representative MsAHLs under biotic and abiotic stresses demonstrated that the expression of MsAHL13, MsAHL15, and MsAHL17 was significantly upregulated under salt, drought, and cold stresses, while MsAHL01 expression was inhibited under low-temperature stress. All six MsAHLs were induced by the pathogen Valsa mali. Subcellular localization analysis of the specifically expressed protein MsAHL13 showed its nuclear location. Furthermore, luciferase and yeast two-hybrid assays confirmed the in vitro physical interaction between the MsAHL13 and MsMYB1 proteins. This research offers an important theoretical basis for further exploration of the functional mechanisms of this gene family in responding to environmental stresses. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent data shows increasing diabetes prevalence among African Americans. Youth with a family history of diabetes are at high risk for diabetes. This study explores the multilevel risk factors associated with a family history of diabetes among African American youth in public housing. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional, quantitative, and community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach. The research team, comprising community stakeholders and academic researchers, employed respondent-driven sampling (RDS) for data collection (survey) and used univariate and bivariate analyses to examine variable relationships. A sequential logistic regression highlighted factors influencing the likelihood of having a family history of diabetes. Results: The final sample (n = 190, mean age 18.5 years, 58% female) included 35% of youth with a family history of diabetes. Forty-six percent reported medium to severe household hardships. Results suggest that reporting a family history of diabetes is correlated with maternal substance use (tau-b = 0.27 **) and alcohol problems (tau-b = 0.16 ***), paternal substance use (tau-b = 0.17 *), and eating fewer fruits (tau-b = 0.17 *). With an odds ratio (OR) of 1.70 [0.68, 4.13] and attributable fraction among the exposed at 41.3%, the final model (3) was not significant [χ² = 11.19(8)]. Thus, we fail to reject the null hypothesis that the model fits the data well. Fewer vegetable consumption (OR = 15.08, p < 0.001), higher soda consumption (OR = 0.06, p < 0.001), severe household hardships (OR = 5.82, p < 0.01), and maternal substance use problems (OR = 6.81, p < 0.05) predicted a higher likelihood of a history of diabetes. Conclusions: Our study calls attention to the need to reevaluate interventions for hardships and substance use in diabetes management, particularly in poor neighborhoods and among minority families. Full article

Background: Influenza vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine are essential to protect the health of older adults. This study focuses on the impact of family physicians’ recommendations on influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake among urban Chinese older adults and makes recommendations for improving vaccination rates. Methods: A cross-sectional survey on influenza vaccination and pneumonia vaccination was conducted in December 2024 in six cities in China among adults aged ≥60 years. Marginal effects as well as logistic regression models were adopted to measure the relationship between family physician recommendation and influenza vaccination and pneumonia vaccination. Results: The overall influenza vaccination rate was 34.05% and pneumococcal vaccination rate was 22.79%. City, educational level, monthly income, health status, and family physician vaccination recommendation had significant impacts on influenza and pneumococcal vaccination (p < 0.05). Among the investigated elderly population, 48.78% and 28.56% had received recommendations from family physicians regarding influenza and pneumococcal vaccination, respectively. Analysis of marginal effects models revealed that physicians’ recommendations were significantly able to boost influenza and pneumococcal vaccination rates by 26.3% (average marginal effect = 0.263, 95% CI = 0.249–0.277) and 23.7% (average marginal effect = 0.237, 95% CI = 0.225–0.248), respectively (p < 0.001). In the adjusted model, family physician recommendation, compared with no family physician recommendation, was also associated with vaccine policy, monthly income, and age in influenza vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine uptake. Conclusions: Older adults’ influenza and pneumococcal vaccination rates need to be improved. Family physicians’ recommendations show a more significant impact on older adults. Family physician recommendations had the greatest boosting effect on vaccination among individuals aged 70–79. Healthcare providers should adopt different vaccine recommendation strategies based on the characteristics of older adults. Full article

Echinostomatidae is a taxonomically complex group with substantial species diversity and richness. The vast majority of species in this family parasitize birds and mammals, including humans, causing significant economic losses and medical costs. In this study, Echinostoma miyagawai (Digenea, Echinostomatidae) and Patagifer bilobus (Digenea, Echinostomatidae) were isolated from domestic duck and Grus japonensis, respectively. The nearly complete ribosomal transcription unit (rTU) sequences of two echinostomes were obtained, with the rTU for P. bilobus being obtained for the first time. The nearly complete rTU sequence of P. bilobus (6790 bp) and E. miyagawai (6893 bp) encompass the small-subunit (18S) ribosomal DNA (rDNA), internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1), 5.8S rDNA, internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2), and large-subunit (28S) rDNA. The complete lengths of 18S, ITS1, 5.8S, ITS2, and 28S sequences for E. miyagawai are 1989 bp, 444 bp, 162 bp, 431 bp, and 3858 bp, respectively. For P. bilobus, complete or nearly complete lengths of these sequences are 1929 bp (nearly complete), 419 bp, 162 bp, 432 bp, and 3848 bp (nearly complete), respectively. The 18S, ITS, and 28S sequences of E. miyagawai show the highest sequence similarity with other E. miyagawai. The ITS and 28S sequences of P. bilobus show the highest sequence similarity with other P. bilobus, while 18S sequence shows the highest similarity with E. miyagawai. This is likely due to the unavailability of the 18S sequence of P. bilobus in GenBank. Repeat sequences were identified in 18S, ITS1, ITS2, and 28S sequences, with the 28S sequence containing the most repeats and the 5.8S sequence having none. The results of phylogenetic reconstruction indicated that E. miyagawai clusters with other Echinostoma spp., while P. bilobus clusters with other Patagifer spp., forming sister taxa. This study not only provides the first rTU sequence for P. bilobus but also reinforces the sister group status of Patagifer to Echinostoma through phylogenetic evidence. Finally, this study represents the first record of the G. japonensis as a new host for P. bilobus and the first report of a bird from the crane family (Gruidae) as a host for any echinostome species. These findings are significant as they expand our understanding of the host range and ecological interactions of Echinostomatidae. The data obtained provide a valuable resource of molecular markers for studying the taxonomy, population genetics, and systematics of the family Echinostomatoidea. This research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the evolutionary relationships and biodiversity within this complex group of parasites, which is crucial for developing effective strategies to mitigate their impact on both wildlife and human health. Full article

Background/Objectives: The transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) rs7903146 polymorphism has been strongly associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in various populations; however, its impact on different ethnic groups is not fully understood. Given the distinct minor allele frequency in Chinese populations, this study aimed to analyze the association of rs7903146 with the risk of T2DM in a Han Chinese cohort and its relationship with relevant clinical parameters. Methods: We conducted a case–control study including 600 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 511 sex-matched non-diabetic controls of Han Chinese descent. The TCF7L2 rs7903146 (C/T) polymorphism was genotyped using a TaqMan™ SNP assay. Clinical parameters, including body mass index (BMI), fasting plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c, lipid profile, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), were compared between genotypes. Logistic regression analyses were performed under a dominant genetic model (CT/TT vs. CC), adjusting for age, sex, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, BMI, and smoking status. Subgroup analyses were conducted by sex, BMI category, age at diagnosis, and family history of T2DM. Given the exploratory nature of this study and the low frequency of the TT genotype, no formal correction for multiple testing was applied. Results: Frequencies of the CT and TT genotypes were higher in the diabetic group (p = 0.045) and were significantly associated with an increased risk of T2DM under a dominant genetic model (adjusted OR = 2.24, p = 0.025). Individuals with CT/TT genotypes had elevated fasting glucose and hs-CRP levels; these genotypes were also linked to higher BMI in the female T2DM patients. The T allele frequency varied across ethnic groups, being lowest in East Asians and highest in Latin (Brazilian/mixed ancestry) populations. Mechanistically, the T allele may contribute to T2DM via altered TCF7L2 expression, impaired insulin secretion, inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation. Conclusions: The TCF7L2 rs7903146 T allele was associated with an increased risk of T2DM and higher fasting glucose and hs-CRP levels in this Han Chinese cohort. The CT/TT genotypes were also associated with higher BMI in the female T2DM patients. While the findings are consistent with the known effects of this variant in other populations, mechanistic hypotheses such as the involvement of inflammatory or metabolic pathways remain hypothetical and warrant further functional validation. Full article

Background/Objectives: This systematic review addresses the disproportionate impact of the opioid epidemic on American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations by examining the socio-ecological and social network factors that influence opioid use and misuse. While previous reviews have largely focused on treatment modalities or structural determinants such as socioeconomic status and rurality, few studies have explored the role of social networks as risk or protective factors, particularly within AI/AN communities. Methods: Applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, the review synthesized findings from three scholarly databases (PubMed, EBSCOhost, ProQuest), six institutional repositories (e.g., Indigenous Studies Portal), and one academic search engine (Google Scholar). Studies that examined the influence of social network domains on opioid misuse in AI/AN populations in the United States, reported quantitative or qualitative data, and were published between 2010 and 2022 were included in this review. Study quality was assessed with the JBI Checklists for Analytical Cross Sectional Studies and Qualitative Research. Of the 817 articles initially identified, 7 met the inclusion criteria, with most studies focusing on AI/AN adolescents and young adults, a demographic shown to be especially susceptible to opioid misuse. Results: The review identified several social network domains that significantly affect opioid use patterns, including familial relationships, peer associations, community dynamics, educational influences, cultural traditions, social media engagement and the effect of historical and intergenerational trauma. These domains can function either as protective buffers or as contributing factors to opioid misuse. Conclusions: The findings underscore the necessity for future longitudinal research to elucidate the causal pathways between these social network factors and opioid behaviors, particularly concerning trauma and digital media exposure. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of culturally grounded, evidence-based prevention strategies that address the multifaceted social environments of AI/AN individuals. Such approaches are critical to fostering resilience and mitigating the opioid crisis within these historically marginalized populations. Full article

Existing studies on mate value discrepancy and relationship satisfaction often suffer from two key limitations: they conceptualize mate value as a single, undifferentiated construct and rely on simple difference scores to model discrepancy effects. The present study addresses these issues by examining the relationship between mate value discrepancy and relationship satisfaction using a multidimensional operationalization of mate value and applying response surface analysis. Data were collected in 2016 in Norway via a web-based survey administered by a market research company, with a sample stratified across the country’s 19 counties. The final estimation sample included 904 individuals currently in romantic relationships. The analysis involved a combination of confirmatory factor analysis and response surface analysis. The findings indicate that relationship satisfaction is highest when both partners exhibit high levels of Family orientation, resourcefulness, appearance, sociability, and physical condition. Among these, family orientation emerged as the most important dimension. Notably, relationship satisfaction declined when both partners scored equally low on these traits. Implications for future research and theoretical implications are discussed. Full article

Obesity has emerged as one of the most significant public health challenges of the 21st century, with its prevalence increasing at an alarming rate globally. While individual factors such as diet and physical inactivity are well-known contributors, the built environment, particularly housing, plays a critical yet understudied role in shaping obesity-related behaviors. This study examines the multilayered relationship between housing and obesity, focusing on built and neighborhood environment, affordability, and the social environment. Poor housing quality, such as overcrowding and inadequate ventilation, can potentially lead to chronic stress and sedentary behaviors, while housing design influences physical activity through characteristics such as design features and outdoor spaces. Housing location affects access to amenities such as parks and healthy food options, with disparities in access contributing to obesity in low-income areas. Similarly, neighborhood walkability, influenced by infrastructure and land use, encourages active transportation and recreation. Housing affordability also impacts dietary choices and access to recreational facilities, particularly for low-income families. Moreover, the social environment within housing communities can foster or hinder healthy behaviors through social networks and community engagement. This study emphasizes the need for health-conscious urban planning and policies that address these housing-related factors to combat obesity and promote healthier lifestyles. By integrating these Obesity–Housing Nexus, policymakers can create environments that support physical activity, healthy eating, as well as overall health and well-being. Full article

Genealogy is the study of family history and ancestral lineage, tracing relationships across generations through records and narratives. The digital revolution has shifted genealogical research from traditional archives to online platforms. Grounded in knowledge co-creation theory, this study examined the role of social media communities and their managers as knowledge hubs within the genealogical ecosystem. Its central innovation lies in identifying two emerging actors in modern genealogical knowledge ecology: the online community as a hub of expertise and the community manager as a key figure in knowledge creation. Drawing on interviews with fifteen Facebook managers of genealogical communities from diverse Jewish backgrounds worldwide, the study explored their perceptions of online genealogical spaces and their roles as facilitators of knowledge. Participants demonstrated a high level of professionalism and thoughtful engagement with sources; however, verifying the accuracy of genealogical claims was not within the scope of this study. Interviews were conducted in English and Hebrew based on participant preference. Thematic analysis revealed five key areas: two focused on the community’s role as a knowledge hub for both members and outsiders, and three on the manager’s role through self-perception, member engagement, and strategic initiatives. As part of a broader dissertation, this chapter deepens understanding of collaborative, community-driven genealogical knowledge in the age of social media. Full article

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic recovery in urban communities in the Arctic have been substantial, but their gendered aspects remain largely unknown. The goal of this study was to enhance the understanding of the gender-based impact on women in the urban areas of Alaska by exploring strengths and constraints to resilience in the social and economic domains of gender equality during and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on grounded theory methodology, this study is based on 29 in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The study methodology utilized a conceptual framework that integrated deficit-based and strength-based analytical perspectives. The paper implemented a voice-centered approach that drew on thematic interviews conducted with women in Anchorage and Nome. Alaska’s urban women demonstrated resilience rooted in self-empowerment and community caregiving. This was reflected in their critical re-evaluation of social and economic gendered structures, a reassessment of priorities in family and social relationships, and the mobilization of support networks. These acts of reflection and care transformed into processes of constructing new meanings of life during dramatic events and became a source of personal strength. The crisis also enabled a re-evaluation of entrenched gender dynamics and women’s ability to challenge gendered divisions in both the workplace and at home. Despite signs of resilience, the pandemic signified a setback for gender equality. It exacerbated pre-existing gender disparities within households, disrupted established pre-pandemic social support networks, increased unpaid domestic labor and a motherhood penalty, and deepened unemployment and income gaps. To further adapt to post-pandemic conditions, women need empowerment and greater representation in decision-making roles, which are critical to strengthening resilience in both the social and economic domains of gender equality. Full article

A questionnaire survey was conducted with 1153 adolescents to examine how emotional support within family and school contexts relates to adolescents’ prosocial behavior. Results indicated that both family cohesion and teacher emotional support were positively and significantly associated with prosocial behavior. Further analysis revealed that adolescents’ meaning in life mediated these relationships and that self-compassion together with meaning in life served as a sequential mediating pathway. When the direct effects of family cohesion and teacher emotional support on prosocial behavior were compared, teacher emotional support exhibited a significantly stronger direct association. However, no significant differences emerged between the two sources of support concerning the sequential (chain-mediating) pathways. These findings extend current understanding of adolescent prosocial development and highlight the importance of collaborative efforts by families and schools to meet adolescents’ emotional needs and promote prosocial tendencies. Full article

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are one of the most significant public health challenges worldwide. Yet, research and communication thereof were left behind for a long time, until the WHO published a priority pathogens list to guide research, development, and public health action in October 2022. Indeed, due to the rising number of immunocompromised patients at risk and the high level of morbidity, mortality, and economic burden they entail, especially in low- and middle-income countries, IFIs are a serious public health threat. Fungal infections due to dimorphic fungi face additional challenges such as limited knowledge outside of endemic areas and restricted availability of antifungal molecules in areas affected by these infections. The number of related deaths per year is estimated at 2.5 million, but non-governmental organisations make a wider estimation, due to the difficulties in early in vitro diagnostic and troublesome collection and analysis of epidemiological data. Despite this fact, the therapeutic toolbox addressing these infections remains limited, with only four main families of molecules available so far. The antifungal therapeutic supply is composed of very toxic polyenes, the weakly selective and nearly unused 5-fluorocytosine, and azoles, some of which are becoming increasingly inefficient against IFIs. In the 2000–2020s, the fourth arising family consisted of safer semisynthetic echinocandins. Unfortunately, nowadays, more and more fungal isolates encountered in intensive care units exhibit a low susceptibility to echinocandins or are even multiresistant. In this review, we expose the current treatments available to fight against invasive fungal infections. We recall the discovery and physico-chemical aspects of these substances leading to structure/activity and structure/properties relationships. We particularly focus on the to-date resistances and their molecular mechanisms. We finally list some of the most relevant antifungal drug candidates, as they were freshly overviewed by the World Health Organization in April 2025, highlighting the importance of the molecular dimension of this pursuit toward the expansion of the antifungal therapeutic toolbox. Full article