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19 pages, 762 KB  
Review
Research Progress on Molecular Breeding and Application of Clematis Plants
by Jiehui He, Lin Lin, Yizeng Chen, Xule Zhang, Yaping Hu, Lei Feng, Xiaohua Ma, Jiayi Lin, Qingdi Hu and Jian Zheng
Plants 2025, 14(23), 3575; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14233575 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Clematis L., a significant genus of climbing plants within the Ranunculaceae family, boasts widespread germplasm resources distributed across temperate to tropical regions globally, with Asia preserving particularly abundant native populations. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in Clematis research: in terms of physiological [...] Read more.
Clematis L., a significant genus of climbing plants within the Ranunculaceae family, boasts widespread germplasm resources distributed across temperate to tropical regions globally, with Asia preserving particularly abundant native populations. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in Clematis research: in terms of physiological characteristics, the research focuses on the evolution of plant classification, chromosomal evolutionary features revealed by karyotype analysis, and studies on genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships based on molecular markers; in breeding methods, it summarizes the two major technical systems of sexual and asexual reproduction; regarding ornamental traits, it emphasizes the molecular mechanisms of flower color and form development, and synthesizes breakthroughs in techniques for flowering period regulation and research on the biosynthesis pathways of floral scent metabolites; in the field of stress resistance mechanisms, it thoroughly examines physiological responses and molecular adaptation mechanisms under abiotic stresses such as UV radiation, drought, high temperature, and intense light, and outlines research progress on pathogen types of major diseases; in studies of medicinal value, it highlights the material basis and mechanisms of pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antitumor effects. Through multidimensional comprehensive analysis, this review aims to elucidate the comprehensive development potential of Clematis, providing theoretical foundations and practical guidance for germplasm resource innovation, breeding of high-ornamental-value cultivars, and stress resistance applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Molecular Biology)
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13 pages, 260 KB  
Article
Generalized Padovan Numbers
by Małgorzata Wołowiec-Musiał and Andrzej Włoch
Symmetry 2025, 17(12), 2019; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17122019 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
In this paper, we study a generalization of Padovan numbers. We define a generating function and matrix generators for the generalized Padovan sequence. Moreover, using graph methods and a special family of generalized Padovan sequences, we derive a multinomial formula for generalized Padovan [...] Read more.
In this paper, we study a generalization of Padovan numbers. We define a generating function and matrix generators for the generalized Padovan sequence. Moreover, using graph methods and a special family of generalized Padovan sequences, we derive a multinomial formula for generalized Padovan numbers. We also prove some identities that generalize known formulae for the classical Padovan numbers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics)
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36 pages, 869 KB  
Review
Characterizing the Bat Virome of Vietnam: A Systematic Review of Viral Diversity and Zoonotic Potential
by Vasilina K. Lapshina, Natalia I. Guskova, Ivan F. Stetsenko, Mo T. Luong, Truong V. Tran, Alina D. Matsvay, German A. Shipulin, Sergey M. Yudin and Veronika I. Skvortsova
Viruses 2025, 17(12), 1532; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17121532 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Bats have been identified as reservoir hosts for an exceptional diversity of viruses, including multiple taxa of high zoonotic concern. Over a hundred bat species inhabit Vietnam, which, combined with significant biodiversity, carry high risk of zoonotic spillover due to dense human–animal interfaces, [...] Read more.
Bats have been identified as reservoir hosts for an exceptional diversity of viruses, including multiple taxa of high zoonotic concern. Over a hundred bat species inhabit Vietnam, which, combined with significant biodiversity, carry high risk of zoonotic spillover due to dense human–animal interfaces, extensive wildlife trade, and proximity to recent outbreak epicenters. This review systematically synthesizes data on the bat virome in Vietnam and neighboring Southeast Asian countries, assessing viral diversity, host species involvement, and zoonotic potential. By prioritizing virus groups with established zoonotic capacity and pandemic potential, the systematic search identified studies reporting viruses from 32 families across 13 bat families. Based on the WHO 2024 risk classification, seven of these viral families were categorized as high-risk, three as medium-risk, and twelve as low-risk. The comparatively higher viral diversity reported in neighboring countries suggests that the current study likely represents an underestimation of the true virome present in Vietnamese bat populations. We emphasize the urgent need for expanded virological studies integrating metagenomic sequencing, serological surveys, and ecological modeling to improve early detection of emerging threats, as the comparatively higher viral diversity reported in neighboring countries suggests existing research likely represents an underestimation of the true virome present in Vietnamese bat populations. Strengthening regional collaboration is critical for establishing proactive pandemic prevention strategies in this high-risk zoonotic hotspot. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section General Virology)
19 pages, 1232 KB  
Review
Research Advances in the Regulation of Fruit Size: An Integrated Perspective of Genetic, Hormonal, Epigenetic, and Environmental Control
by Haidong Bu, Xiaohuan Sun, Yinghui Hu, Guangjun Gu, Yue Yang and Wenquan Yu
Biology 2025, 14(12), 1643; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14121643 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Fruit size is a key economic trait in horticultural crops, determined by an integrated network of genetic, hormonal, epigenetic, and environmental factors. This review synthesizes recent advances in understanding this regulation. Genetically, key quantitative trait loci (QTLs) such as fw2.2, fw3.2, [...] Read more.
Fruit size is a key economic trait in horticultural crops, determined by an integrated network of genetic, hormonal, epigenetic, and environmental factors. This review synthesizes recent advances in understanding this regulation. Genetically, key quantitative trait loci (QTLs) such as fw2.2, fw3.2, FAS, and LC control cell number and organ size. Hormones including auxin, gibberellin, cytokinin, and brassinosteroid regulate cell division and expansion. Transcription factors (e.g., YABBY, WOX families) and epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, histone modifications, endoreduplication) provide additional regulatory layers. Environmental factors (light, temperature, water, nutrition) and cultivation practices (pruning, thinning) ultimately shape the final fruit phenotype. Emerging technologies like multi-omics, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, and artificial intelligence offer powerful tools for future research and molecular breeding, which aim to decode the complex regulatory network and enhance crop yield and quality. Full article
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15 pages, 251 KB  
Article
Complementary Feeding and Risk of Choking: A Survey Among Parents and Primary Care Pediatricians in Emilia-Romagna, Northern Italy
by Lorenza Parini, Elisa Manieri, Elena Corinaldesi, Michele Torella, Paolo Bottau, Eleonora Laderchi, Dalila Periccioli, Alessandra Cavallo, Chiara Bontempo, Eleonora Battelli, Egidio Candela, Monica Fae, Cecilia Argentina, Marcello Lanari and Arianna Dondi
Children 2025, 12(12), 1587; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121587 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background: Complementary feeding has traditionally relied on traditional spoon feeding (TSF), in which parents gradually introduce semi-solid foods under close supervision. More recently, Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) has become popular, promoting infant autonomy in handling solid foods. To address concerns regarding choking and nutritional [...] Read more.
Background: Complementary feeding has traditionally relied on traditional spoon feeding (TSF), in which parents gradually introduce semi-solid foods under close supervision. More recently, Baby-Led Weaning (BLW) has become popular, promoting infant autonomy in handling solid foods. To address concerns regarding choking and nutritional adequacy, the Baby-Led Introduction to SolidS (BLISS) method was developed. Some families instead adopt autonomous responsive feeding, which combines structured guidance with respect for the infant’s self-regulation. Although concerns about foreign body aspiration (FBA) persist among caregivers and pediatricians, current evidence shows that, when conducted safely, BLW may not increase this risk compared with TSF. This study investigated the prevalence of complementary feeding practices and their perceived relationship to FBA, exploring perspectives of caregivers and primary care pediatricians in Emilia-Romagna, Northern Italy. Methods: Between March 2022 and May 2024, 149 parents and 126 pediatricians completed anonymous questionnaires. Results: Among parents, 67% initiated complementary feeding at ≥6 months; 43.6% reported autonomous responsive, 32.8% BLW, and 23.5% strict TSF. Pediatricians more frequently endorsed flexible approaches: 61.1% supported autonomous responsive feeding, 37.1% BLW, and 12.7% TSF. Notably, strict TSF was applied by 23.3% of parents, almost twice the proportion recommended by pediatricians. Suspected choking episodes were reported by 41.6% of parents but showed no significant association with feeding method or demographic factors. Conclusions: BLW and related flexible practices are increasingly adopted and, when implemented safely, may not increase FBA risk. Pediatricians appear to recommend BLW, or hybrid approaches, more often than parents apply them, suggesting possible gaps in communication and shared decision-making. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Neonatology)
19 pages, 749 KB  
Review
Transforming Care Models in Cystic Fibrosis: A Review
by Barry Lawrence Diener, Maria Berdella, Joan DeCelie-Germana, Teresa Stables-Carney and Catherine Kier
Healthcare 2025, 13(23), 3022; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13233022 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystemic, chronic disease that requires a large multidisciplinary team for effective treatment. Over the past 20 years, the landscape of cystic fibrosis care has evolved from an almost exclusively pediatric disease to both a pediatric and adult condition. [...] Read more.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystemic, chronic disease that requires a large multidisciplinary team for effective treatment. Over the past 20 years, the landscape of cystic fibrosis care has evolved from an almost exclusively pediatric disease to both a pediatric and adult condition. The median age of cystic fibrosis patients is rising, and the number of adults with CF is also increasing. With new developments in cystic fibrosis care, patients’ health and needs have changed, and therefore the care model of the cystic fibrosis team has also changed. The introduction of highly effective CFTR modulator therapy, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the partnership of people with CF (PwCF) and their families have catalyzed the transformation of the CF care model, which includes the growth and evolution of the CF care team given the changes in the demographics of CF patients and the incorporation of telehealth and remote patient monitoring, shared decision-making, and coproduction of care. This narrative review, focusing on the United States (US) experience, explores the transformation of CF care, highlighting demographic changes, medical breakthroughs, and systemic adaptations. Full article
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25 pages, 991 KB  
Review
Satellite DNA Genomics: The Ongoing Story
by Manuel A. Garrido-Ramos, Miroslav Plohl and Eva Šatović-Vukšić
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(23), 11291; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262311291 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Tandemly repeated non-coding sequences, widely known as satellite DNAs (satDNAs), are extremely diverse and highly variable components of eukaryotic genomes. In recent years, advances in high-throughput sequencing and new bioinformatics platforms have enabled in-depth studies of all (or nearly all) tandem repeats in [...] Read more.
Tandemly repeated non-coding sequences, widely known as satellite DNAs (satDNAs), are extremely diverse and highly variable components of eukaryotic genomes. In recent years, advances in high-throughput sequencing and new bioinformatics platforms have enabled in-depth studies of all (or nearly all) tandem repeats in any genome (the satellitome), while a growing number of telomere-to-telomere assemblies facilitates their detailed mapping. Research performed on a large number of non-model plant and animal species changed significantly the “classical” view on these sequences, both in an organizational and functional sense, from ballast compacted in the form of heterochromatin to elements that are important for structuring the entire genome, as well as for its functions and evolution. The diversity of repeat families, and the complexity of their intraspecies and interspecies distribution patterns, posed new questions, urging for species-by-species comparative analyses. Here we integrate some basic features of different forms of sequences repeated in tandem and rapidly growing data evidencing extensive dispersal of satDNA sequences in euchromatin, their putative roles and evolutionary significance. Importantly, we also present and discuss various issues brought on by the use of new methodological approaches and point out potential threats to the analysis of satDNAs and satellitomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Repetitive DNA)
16 pages, 885 KB  
Review
Molecular Mechanisms in the Etiopathology of Rosacea—Systematic Review
by Anastazja Andrusiewicz, Sofiia Khimuk, Daniel Mijas, Bohdan Shmorhun and Danuta Nowicka
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(23), 11292; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262311292 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of multifactorial pathogenesis, in which dysregulated innate immunity, neurovascular dysfunction, oxidative stress, and microbiome imbalance are central contributors. Recent molecular studies have revealed altered cytokine expression (e.g., IL-1β, IL-6, IL-36 family), aberrant activation of signaling pathways [...] Read more.
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of multifactorial pathogenesis, in which dysregulated innate immunity, neurovascular dysfunction, oxidative stress, and microbiome imbalance are central contributors. Recent molecular studies have revealed altered cytokine expression (e.g., IL-1β, IL-6, IL-36 family), aberrant activation of signaling pathways (STAT3, NF-κB, MAPKs), and enhanced expression of innate immune receptors such as TLR2,b TLR4, and TLR7, all of which promote chronic inflammation, angiogenesis, and barrier dysfunction. This systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. A total of 1425 records were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, and 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. The included studies comprised both clinical cohorts and translational experimental investigations using human samples. Reported findings consistently confirmed systemic and tissue-specific inflammatory activity, with elevated circulating monocytes, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, and inflammatory indices, as well as tissue expression of STAT3, NF-κB, MAPKs, and cathelicidin fragments. Oxidative stress markers (TOS, OSI, AOPP, MMP-9) and hypoxia-related molecules (HIF-1α) were significantly increased in patients, correlating with disease severity and vascular manifestations. Taken together, these results highlight that rosacea involves both cutaneous and systemic molecular alterations. The evidence identifies multiple biomarkers with diagnostic potential and provides mechanistic insights into immune, vascular, and metabolic dysregulation. Future research should aim to validate these findings in larger cohorts, establish standardized biomarker panels, and explore novel therapeutic strategies targeting key molecular pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets in Skin Diseases)
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12 pages, 1665 KB  
Article
Abiotic Factors Affecting Vector-Borne Plant Pathogen Complexes: Elevated CO2 and the Barley Yellow Dwarf Pathosystem
by Shirin Parizad, Jingya Yang, Liesl Oeller, Atoosa Nikoukar, Xi Liang and Arash Rashed
Insects 2025, 16(12), 1186; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16121186 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Changes in atmospheric CO2 are known to influence plant physiology, subsequently affecting the nature of their interactions with their biotic environment. Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), one of the most widespread and damaging viruses of small grains, is transmitted by cereal aphids [...] Read more.
Changes in atmospheric CO2 are known to influence plant physiology, subsequently affecting the nature of their interactions with their biotic environment. Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), one of the most widespread and damaging viruses of small grains, is transmitted by cereal aphids and has a broad range of cultivated and uncultivated hosts from the Poaceae family. Here, we examined the effects of elevated CO2 on plant physiology, Rhopalosiphum padi L. performance, and the accumulation of BYDV (strain BYDV-PAV) in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum L.), and green foxtail (Setaria viridis (L.) Beauv.). A growth chamber experiment was conducted under ambient (420 ppm) and elevated CO2 (700 ppm) with aphid-infested and uninfested plants. Elevated CO2 significantly increased total plant biomass in all species but did not affect aphid survival or reproduction. The root biomass of winter wheat and foxtail barley, but not green foxtail, increased under elevated CO2. However, no significant effect of aphids/BYDV was detected on total plant biomass. Transpiration rates varied with host plant and aphid presence but were not affected by CO2 level. Total water-soluble carbohydrate concentration was unaffected by CO2 or aphids. BYDV-PAV accumulation varied by host plant species, with winter wheat having the highest virus titer, followed by foxtail barley and green foxtail. Virus titers were increased under elevated CO2 in all host plant species. We demonstrated that uncultivated grasses are important reservoirs for both BYDV-PAV and the R. padi vector and suggested that elevated CO2 may enhance virus accumulation across the evaluated host plants. This underscores the need to consider the role of non-crop hosts in developing management plans and/or predicting BYDV dynamics in small grains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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18 pages, 2868 KB  
Review
Types and Diagnosis of Childhood Intellectual Disabilities: Advancing Accuracy for Better Outcomes
by Rasha Babiker, Manal M. Sami, Haifa K. Ahmed and Rasha A. Salama
Children 2025, 12(12), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121585 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
Intellectual disability (ID)—termed intellectual developmental disorder in DSM-5-TR and disorders of intellectual development in ICD-11—is a heterogeneous spectrum of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impairments in general intellectual abilities and adaptive functioning, with onset during the developmental period. Precise and early recognition of ID [...] Read more.
Intellectual disability (ID)—termed intellectual developmental disorder in DSM-5-TR and disorders of intellectual development in ICD-11—is a heterogeneous spectrum of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impairments in general intellectual abilities and adaptive functioning, with onset during the developmental period. Precise and early recognition of ID can alter developmental trajectories by clarifying prognosis, guiding targeted genetic and medical investigations, initiating time-sensitive interventions, preventing diagnostic overshadowing, and informing educational planning and family counseling. This narrative review synthesizes contemporary diagnostic standards from DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, recent updates in epidemiology, and an aetiology-oriented framework for classifying “types” of intellectual disability. It further outlines current best practices in diagnostic work-up—including developmental surveillance and screening, standardized cognitive and adaptive assessments, genomic testing (microarray, exome/genome sequencing, and syndrome-specific assays), selective metabolic studies, and neuroimaging or EEG when indicated. Additionally, the review explores culturally responsive and equitable assessment, special diagnostic contexts (such as profound impairment, sensory and motor confounds, and bilingualism), and the frequent co-occurrence of other neurodevelopmental and medical disorders. The discussion concludes with practical, stepwise diagnostic pathways that clinicians can readily apply and anticipates emerging frontiers—such as genomic medicine and digital phenotyping—that promise to enhance diagnostic yield and clinical utility in the near future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Neurology & Neurodevelopmental Disorders)
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26 pages, 6015 KB  
Article
Definition and Discovery of Tandem SH3-Binding Motifs Interacting with Members of the p47phox-Related Protein Family
by Zsofia E. Kalman, Tamas Lazar, Laszlo Dobson and Rita Pancsa
Biomolecules 2025, 15(12), 1641; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15121641 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025
Abstract
SH3 domains are widespread protein modules that mostly bind to proline-rich short linear motifs (SLiMs). Most known SH3 domain-motif interactions and canonical or non-canonical recognition specificities are described for individual SH3 domains. Although cooperation and coordinated motif binding between tandem SH3 domains has [...] Read more.
SH3 domains are widespread protein modules that mostly bind to proline-rich short linear motifs (SLiMs). Most known SH3 domain-motif interactions and canonical or non-canonical recognition specificities are described for individual SH3 domains. Although cooperation and coordinated motif binding between tandem SH3 domains has already been described for members of the p47phox-related protein family, individual cases have never been collected and analyzed collectively, which precluded the definition of the binding preferences and targeted discovery of further instances. Here, we apply an integrative approach that includes data collection, curation, bioinformatics analyses and state-of-the-art structure prediction methods to fill these gaps. A search of the human proteome with the sequence signatures of SH3 tandemization and follow-up structure analyses suggest that SH3 tandemization could be specific for this family. We define the optimal binding preference of tandemly arranged SH3 domains as [PAVIL]PPR[PR][^DE][^DE] and propose potential new instances of this SLiM among the family members and their binding partners. Structure predictions suggest the possibility of a novel, reverse binding mode for certain motif instances. In all, our comprehensive analysis of this unique SH3 binding mode enabled the identification of novel, interesting tandem SH3-binding motif candidates with potential therapeutic relevance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protein Biophysics)
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909 KB  
Proceeding Paper
Evaluation of the Antifungal Effect of Carvacrol-Rich Essential Oils: In Vitro Study on the Phytopathogenic Fungi Alternaria and Fusarium
by Vasileios Papantzikos, Georgios Patakioutas and Paraskevi Yfanti
Biol. Life Sci. Forum 2025, 54(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/blsf2025054001 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025
Abstract
Certain essential oils (EOs) from aromatic plants have shown potent antifungal effects. In this work, an in vitro study was conducted to examine the antifungal effect of EOs obtained from Greek flora aromatic plants that belong to the Lamiaceae family on two phytopathogenic [...] Read more.
Certain essential oils (EOs) from aromatic plants have shown potent antifungal effects. In this work, an in vitro study was conducted to examine the antifungal effect of EOs obtained from Greek flora aromatic plants that belong to the Lamiaceae family on two phytopathogenic fungi. Specifically, Satureja horvatii ssp. macrophylla, Coridothymus capitatus, and Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum were tested against Alternaria sp., which causes tomato black spot, and Fusarium sp., which causes potato tuber dry rot during storage. The antifungal activity of the EOs was assessed using fumigant assays, and their chemical composition was analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). After 8 days of incubation at 26 ± 1 °C, the EOs of O. vulgare ssp. hirtum and C. capitatus completely inhibited mycelial growth at 2 µL plate−1 in the case of Fusarium sp. and at 3 µL plate−1 in the case of Alternaria sp. S. horvatii ssp. macrophylla completely inhibited the mycelial growth of Fusarium sp. at 3 µL plate−1 and that of Alternaria sp. at 4 µL plate−1. All the essential oils used in the experiments were rich in carvacrol (41.4–70.0%), while thymol levels ranged from 0% to 18.9%. This fumigant effect could be further evaluated for the fruits’ postharvest protection from phytopathogenic fungi during storage. Full article
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28 pages, 831 KB  
Article
Understanding Childhood Fever: A Qualitative Study of Family Attitudes, Emotions, and Caregiving Practices
by Francisco Vicens-Blanes, Jesús Molina-Mula and Rosa Miró-Bonet
Children 2025, 12(12), 1584; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121584 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025
Abstract
Introduction: Although childhood fever is a common and typically self-limiting clinical presentation, it imposes a substantial emotional and psychological burden on caregivers, especially mothers, primarily due to enduring practices and beliefs that diverge from contemporary evidence-based medical guidelines. Objective: The aim was to [...] Read more.
Introduction: Although childhood fever is a common and typically self-limiting clinical presentation, it imposes a substantial emotional and psychological burden on caregivers, especially mothers, primarily due to enduring practices and beliefs that diverge from contemporary evidence-based medical guidelines. Objective: The aim was to investigate how families perceive pediatric fever, identify the factors influencing their caregiving decisions, and examine their experiences across various healthcare settings. Methodology: A qualitative study employing an ethnomethodological approach was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Spain. The study included ten caregivers (nine mothers and one father) of children presenting with fever. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and field diary observations. Analysis was performed using a combination of inductive and deductive methods, supported by the Atlas.ti 25.0.1 version software. Results: Mothers perceive childhood fever as a disruptive event necessitating rapid decision-making, shaped by emotional responses, prior experiences, culturally transmitted knowledge, and social context. Common caregiving practices included routine administration of antipyretics, application of physical remedies, and early utilization of emergency healthcare services. The caregiver–healthcare professional relationship was characterized by ambivalence, highlighting the need for enhanced health education and greater emotional support for caregivers. Conclusions: Childhood fever represents both a clinical condition and a sociocultural phenomenon. Gaining insight into family practices and beliefs enables the development of more effective, empathetic educational interventions, which can enhance caregiving practices and mitigate parental anxiety. Reporting method: Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guidelines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Global Pediatric Health)
11 pages, 207 KB  
Article
Trauma, Emotional Neglect, and Developmental Vulnerability in Children: Evidence from Albania
by Anila Sulstarova, Blerta Bodinaku, Skerdi Zahaj, Gerda Sula and Greta Hysi
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121608 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025
Abstract
Background: Children in Albania and the wider Balkan region are often exposed to subtle yet persistent forms of emotional absence, parentification, and silencing. These relational harms are culturally normalized and rarely identified as neglect, but they create significant developmental vulnerabilities and increase the [...] Read more.
Background: Children in Albania and the wider Balkan region are often exposed to subtle yet persistent forms of emotional absence, parentification, and silencing. These relational harms are culturally normalized and rarely identified as neglect, but they create significant developmental vulnerabilities and increase the risk of exploitation, including trafficking. Methods: This qualitative study involved 30 participants, including 16 frontline professionals (psychologists, social workers, and legal staff) and 14 survivors of trafficking. Data were collected through semi-structured, trauma-informed interviews and focus groups between December 2024 and March 2025. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to identify emotional and relational patterns contributing to vulnerability, with attention to cultural contexts and gendered dynamics. Results: Three interrelated themes were identified: (1) emotional absence: children adapt to caregivers’ physical presence but emotional unavailability, leading to self-effacement and diminished entitlement to care; (2) parentification: children assume emotional caregiving roles, often regulating parents’ wellbeing; and (3) silencing: emotional expression becomes equated with shame or punishment, producing long-term relational invisibility. Conclusions: Early relational harms describe developmental conditions that may heighten susceptibility. Prevention and intervention should integrate attachment-based family assessments, early childhood screening, trauma-informed training for professionals, and culturally adapted approaches to break cycles of invisible harm and strengthen children’s emotional safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Trauma and Resilience in Children and Adolescents)
20 pages, 1019 KB  
Article
Fecal Sample Surveillance of the Wildlife Virome in Central Italy: Insights from the Foreste Casentinesi National Park
by Maria Irene Pacini, Mario Forzan and Maurizio Mazzei
Animals 2025, 15(23), 3378; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15233378 - 21 Nov 2025
Abstract
Wildlife can act as both a reservoir and a sentinel for emerging pathogens, but surveillance is often constrained by difficulties in obtaining samples without disturbing animals. This study explored the viral diversity of wild mammals inhabiting the Foreste Casentinesi National Park (Central Italy) [...] Read more.
Wildlife can act as both a reservoir and a sentinel for emerging pathogens, but surveillance is often constrained by difficulties in obtaining samples without disturbing animals. This study explored the viral diversity of wild mammals inhabiting the Foreste Casentinesi National Park (Central Italy) using non-invasive fecal sampling. From 2021 to 2022, 99 fecal samples from several species were collected and analyzed by PCR and metagenomic next-generation sequencing. Of 26 pools examined, 10 (38.5%) tested positive for at least one viral target. Astroviruses were the most frequently detected, found in deer, foxes, wolves, small mustelids, and porcupines. Several sequences showed low similarity to known strains, suggesting divergent or novel viral lineages. Metagenomic analysis also identified members of Circoviridae, Anelloviridae, and Picobirnaviridae. While none of these virus families are currently recognized as major zoonotic agents, their widespread occurrence in wildlife and domestic animals underscores the importance of continued surveillance to better assess their ecological roles, host range, and potential implications for both animal and human health. These results provide new insights into the virome of European wildlife, including the first reports of some viruses in certain species. Overall, our study demonstrates that non-invasive surveillance is a valuable tool for monitoring ecosystem health and supports a One Health approach to early detection of viral threats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wildlife)
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