Search Results (4,305)

Background/Objectives: Pediatric episodic vestibular syndrome (EVS) is increasingly recognized, with recurrent vertigo of childhood (RVC) and vestibular migraine of childhood (VMC) being the most prevalent disorders. In 2021, the Bárány Society and the International Headache Society proposed new diagnostic criteria for RVC, VMC, and probable VMC (pVMC), replacing the older term benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV). This study aimed to evaluate the clinical applicability of these new criteria. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study at a pediatric neurotology clinic within a tertiary hospital, including patients under 18 years with episodic vestibular symptoms evaluated between 2018 and 2025. All patients underwent a standardized neuro-otological assessment. Diagnoses were assigned using both the 2018 ICHD-3 and the 2021 Bárány criteria. Patients who did not fulfill any of the three new diagnostic categories, nor met criteria for any other specific vestibular disorder, were grouped into an undetermined category referred to as episodic vestibular syndrome without hearing loss (EVSw/oHL). Demographic and clinical variables were compared across diagnostic groups using non-parametric and chi-squared tests. Results: Among the 202 children evaluated, 109 met the inclusion criteria and were classified as RVC (n = 55), VMC (n = 23), pVMC (n = 13), or EVSw/oHL (n = 18). All patients previously diagnosed with BPV met the new criteria for RVC. Application of the Bárány criteria significantly reduced the proportion of unclassified EVS cases (from 35.78% to 16.51%). Significant clinical differences were observed among the groups in terms of episode duration, presence of vomiting, migraine and headache, and family history of migraine. Conclusions: The new Bárány criteria provide a more inclusive and clinically meaningful framework for classifying pediatric EVS. They improve diagnostic clarity, reduce the proportion of unclassifiable cases, and support earlier and more tailored management strategies. 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

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease with limited treatment options focused primarily on symptom management. Emerging evidence suggests that dietary interventions may influence inflammation and pain through modulation of the gut microbiome and metabolome. Methods: We conducted a 4-week open-label pilot trial evaluating the effects of an anti-inflammatory dietary intervention (ITIS diet) in 20 patients with knee OA (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05559463, registered prior to enrollment; sponsor: University of California, San Diego; responsible party: Monica Guma; study start date: 1 October 2021). The following were assessed before and after the intervention: (1) clinical outcomes; (2) gut and salivary microbiomes; and (3) salivary, stool, and plasma metabolomes. Responders were defined as patients achieving ≥30% reduction in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) pain scores. Results: The ITIS diet was well-tolerated, with good adherence (66.2%) and a significant improvement in clinical outcomes, including reduced pain and improved overall health measured with the visual analog scale (VAS). Responders (n = 8) showed distinct gut microbiome and metabolome profiles compared to non-responders (n = 12). Notably, taxa within the Lachnospiraceae family exhibited dynamic, bidirectional shifts post-intervention: Anaerostipes and Limivivens were enriched among responders and negatively correlated with pain scores, while Oliverpabstia and Fusicatenibacter were depleted following dietary intervention. These taxa also showed strong correlations with anti-inflammatory metabolites, including hydroxydecanoic acid derivatives and pyridoxine. Furthermore, subsequent network analysis revealed more structured and selective microbiome–metabolome interactions in responders, specifically post-intervention. Conclusions: This pilot study shows that a short-term anti-inflammatory dietary intervention was associated with meaningful changes in the gut microbiome and metabolome. Members of the Lachnospiraceae family emerged as key taxa associated with pain reduction and anti-inflammatory metabolite production. Our findings suggest that specific microbial responses—rather than global diversity changes—may underlie dietary responsiveness in OA. Although exploratory and limited by sample size, our results support further investigation into personalized, microbiome-informed nutritional strategies for OA management. Full article

(1) Background: Idiopathic or familial nasal hyperkeratosis (NHK) may be considered a cosmetic issue in its uncomplicated form. Nevertheless, the prevention of secondary lesions could be advised by proper management. (2) Methods: In this multicentre, prospective, open-label pilot study, dogs with familial or idiopathic NHK received a topical emollient balm twice daily for 60 days. Evaluation of the global dermatological score (GDS; 0–12) on D0, D30, and D60 by owners and investigators was the main outcome. The score’s percentage decrease versus D0; the evolution of “dryness”, “lichenification”, “crusts”, and “affected area” (0–3); the correlation between observers and the evaluation of clinical improvement; and animal discomfort rated using a VAS (0–10) during follow-up were analysed. (3) Results: Twenty dogs completed the study. The mean GDS decreased significantly from Day 0 to Day 30 and Day 60 (p < 0.0001), with percentage reductions of 44.9% and 54.5% (investigators) and 54.3% and 62.3% (owners) on Day 30 and Day 60, respectively. Correlations between investigators and owners were significant for dryness, crusts (at Day 60), and the affected area, but not for lichenification. Animal discomfort scores decreased by more than 50% from Day 0. Owners reported high satisfaction with the product (mean score 8.1/10) and no adverse events occurred. (4) Conclusions: This open-label pilot study suggests that the tested balm is well tolerated and may improve clinical signs of NHK in dogs. Given the lack of a control group, small sample size, and absence of blinding, these results should be considered preliminary. Further randomized controlled trials and formal validation of the scoring system are warranted. Full article

Background: There are very few reviews on how children’s food allergy is managed across various educational settings, and none have considered psychological support in addition to child safety. This scoping review aimed to understand interventions to manage food allergy, addressing children’s safety and psychological support in childcare centres, preschools, and schools. Methods: Following the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and applying the PCC (population, concept, and context) mnemonic, a search was conducted via Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), ERIC (ProQuest), PsychInfo (EBSCOhost), Scopus, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses (ProQuest). Furthermore, two supplementary searches were conducted: first, backward citation tracking of all publications included in this review; and second, a search of seven peak allergy organisation websites, including Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia and the World Allergy Organization. Findings: Eighteen publications were included from 6812 records retrieved from the databases. Most publications were from the United States of America (61%), representing food allergy management mainly in schools (39%), followed by preschools (22%), childcare centres (17%), and mixed settings (11%). All the interventions focused on child physical safety, largely neglecting psychosocial support for children or their families, and only four publications reported the use of control groups to test intervention benefits (22%). Furthermore, safety-focused interventions were centred on building educator or staff knowledge of food allergy and their skills, confidence, and self-efficacy to manage it (72%); these were found to be highly effective. Most interventions were aimed at adults, and none considered children. Interpretation: The findings suggest a need for more research on food allergy management involving child-focused, developmentally appropriate approaches, especially in childcare and preschool settings. There is also a need for research on psychological support, particularly that which involves control groups and encompasses different nations. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study conducted a secondary and integrative analysis of qualitative data on adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with biliary atresia who survive with their native livers. These individuals struggle with independence and self-care due to prolonged parental involvement. Prior studies have insufficiently clarified how AYAs and parents jointly navigate daily responsibility transitions during this period. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate this process and develop a practical model to support nursing care. Methods: Semi-structured interview data from eight adolescent–parent dyads (one male and seven females, aged 17–25; one father and seven mothers, aged 40–60) were reanalyzed using the modified grounded theory approach. By reframing the analytical focus on dyadic interactions, four transition phases were identified, which were then integrated with the findings of two prior studies to construct an integrative process model. Results: The transition comprised four phases: (1) parent-led recuperation, (2) a vicious cycle of control and rebellion, (3) passing the axis of responsibility, and (4) aligning the parent–child rhythm to create a patient-centered life. The transition processes were shaped by changes in cognition and behavior. The model illustrates mutual adaptation through communication, negotiation, and reflection, identifying opportunities for nursing intervention. Conclusions: This process model offers a practical framework for nurses to assess readiness for care transitions, support transitional role shifts, and co-develop care strategies. The model provides insights into relationship-based communication and shared decision-making in transitional care by capturing the relational dynamics between AYAs and their parents. Full article

Optic pathway glioma (OPG) is a rare pediatric low-grade glioma, frequently associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF–1), that presents unique therapeutic challenges due to its anatomical location and its potential to impair vision, endocrine function, and developmental trajectories. Current clinical management prioritizes a multidisciplinary, patient-specific approach aimed at tumor control while preserving long-term quality of life. Strategies vary based on clinical presentation, ranging from observation in asymptomatic cases to chemotherapy for progressive or symptomatic tumors. Surgical and radiation options are limited due to potential risks and complications. In recent years, advances in molecular characterization have guided the development of targeted therapies, particularly MEK inhibitors, which demonstrate encouraging efficacy and reduced toxicity profiles. In parallel, investigational therapies including immunotherapy and precision medicine-based approaches are under clinical evaluation. This review provides a synthesis of current standard practices, emerging targeted treatments, and ongoing clinical trials, drawing on relevant literature and expert consensus to inform clinicians and families about available therapeutic options. Literature discussed in this review was identified through a non-systematic search of published articles, clinical trial registries, and authoritative guidelines, with selection based on relevance, clinical significance, and contribution to understanding current and emerging management strategies for OPG. Full article

Heterobasidion root rot fungi represent a major threat to conifer forest stands, and virocontrol (biocontrol) has been proposed as an alternative strategy of disease management in recent years. Here, we investigated the occurrence of RNA viruses and viroid-like genomes in Heterobasidion annosum sensu lato in near-natural forests of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Dinaric Alps), a region previously unexplored in this regard. Seventeen H. annosum s.l. isolates were screened for virus presence by RNA Sequencing and bioinformatic analyses. In total, 32 distinct mycoviruses were discovered in the datasets, 26 of which were previously unknown. The detected viruses represent two dsRNA (Partitiviridae and Curvulaviridae), six linear ssRNA (Mitoviridae, Narnaviridae, Botourmiaviridae, Virgaviridae, Benyviridae, and Deltaflexiviridae) and three circular ssRNA (Dumbiviridae, Quambiviridae, and Trimbiviridae) virus families. In addition to the known circular ambiviruses with their hammerhead (HHRz) and hairpin (HPRz) ribozymes, two other smaller non-coding circular RNAs of ca. 910 bp each were identified encoding HHRz and deltavirus (DVRz) ribozymes in both polarities of their genomes. This study documents the first report of a putative viroid-like RNA agent in Heterobasidion, along with beny-like and deltaflexivirus-like viruses in Heterobasidion abietinum, and expands the known virosphere of Heterobasidion species in Southeastern European forests. Full article

Myopia is one of the major public health conditions with significant complications. This study investigates the role of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2, complement activation, and inflammasome pathways in myopia progression using a Brown Norway rat model. Myopia was induced, and complement regulation was manipulated using gene therapy via adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors delivering CD55 or CD55 siRNA. Results showed that TGF-β2 exacerbated myopia by upregulating complement components C3 and C5, suppressing CD55, and activating inflammasome pathways through nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling, leading to axial elongation and increased refractive errors. Overexpression of CD55 via AAV gene therapy effectively counteracted these effects, reducing axial length elongation and inflammation by suppressing inflammasome markers interleukin (IL)-1β and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), as confirmed by real-time quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence analyses. Conversely, silencing CD55 intensified TGF-β2-induced effects, further promoting axial elongation and inflammation. These findings highlight the critical role of CD55 in modulating TGF-β2-driven complement and inflammasome activation during myopia progression. The study suggests that gene therapy targeting CD55 could serve as a novel therapeutic strategy to mitigate myopia and related inflammatory processes, offering a promising avenue for managing this significant public health challenge. 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 construction environment is a highly dynamic and complex system, presenting challenges for accurately identifying and managing dynamic resources in digital twin-based scenes. This study aims to address the problem of object coordinate distortion caused by camera image deformation, which often reduces the fidelity of dynamic object mapping in digital construction monitoring. A novel dynamic object mapping generation method is proposed to enhance precision and synchronization of dynamic objects within a digital twin environment. The approach integrates internal and external camera parameters, including spatial position, field of view (FOV), and camera pose, into BIM using Dynamo, thereby creating a virtual camera aligned with the physical one. The YOLOv11 algorithm is employed to recognize dynamic objects in real-time camera footage, and corresponding object families are generated in the BIM model. Using perspective projection combined with a linear regression model, the system computes and updates accurate coordinate positions of the dynamic objects, which are then fed back into the camera view to achieve real-time mapping. Experimental validation demonstrates that the proposed method significantly reduces mapping errors induced by lens distortion and provides accurate spatial data, supporting improved dynamic resource perception and intelligent management in digital twin construction environments. Full article

Background: Vanishing twin syndrome (VTS) represents a complex and under-recognized phenomenon in multifetal pregnancies, associated with both clinical uncertainty and significant psychosocial impact. Despite its frequency, gaps remain in diagnostic clarity, international guidelines, and communication strategies with patients and families. Materials and Methods: This hybrid review integrates narrative and systematic elements to assess the diagnostic, clinical, and psychosocial gaps in VTS. A systematic literature search was conducted across Medline/PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EBM Reviews, and Scopus using terms such as “vanishing twin syndrome,” “patient-provider communicat*,” and “bereave* care.” Sources included systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and qualitative studies. Exclusion criteria were outdated publications (>10 years old). Results: Evidence revealed multiple domains of concern. Clinical risks and diagnostics remain poorly defined, with inconsistent recognition of maternal and neonatal complications. Psychosocial impacts were prominent, encompassing grief, identity disruption, and unmet support needs. Patient–provider communication was frequently inadequate, with insufficient training and lack of standardized language. International guidelines varied widely in scope, with only a few of them providing clear recommendations for bereavement care in multifetal loss contexts. Discussion: Emerging discourse highlights the limitations of the traditional fission model and alternative conceptual frameworks, such as Herranz’s model, for understanding VTS. These theoretical differences underscore the need for precise terminology and consistent diagnostic practices. Clinical implications extend to prenatal screening, obstetric management, and the integration of psychosocial support. Patient-centered communication and structured support initiatives (e.g., the Butterfly Project) demonstrate the potential to bridge communication gaps and improve care experiences. Conclusions: VTS requires recognition as both a medical and psychosocial condition. Improved clinical definitions, harmonized international guidelines, and emphasis on empathetic communication are essential to address the current gaps. Integrating these elements into practice may enhance patient outcomes and provide families with validation and support following multifetal loss. Full article

Aster spp., a key grass species for the ecological restoration of alpine degraded grasslands on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, often suffers from pest damage during its flowering and seed maturation stages, severely limiting the effectiveness of ecological restoration and the sustainable utilization of germplasm resources. This study focused on nine widely distributed species of Aster in the Three River Source Region of Qinghai Province, systematically investigated the structure of arthropod communities and the spatiotemporal dynamics of pests, and developed an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy. Through systematic surveys at multiple sites, a total of 109 arthropod species were identified (57 families of insects, 96 species; 7 families of spiders, 13 species). The Diptera (Tephritidae) and Hemiptera (Miridae) were identified as dominant groups. Tephritis angustipennis was determined to be the key pest, with its population density reaching a peak in mid-to-late August (p < 0.05). Based on the occurrence patterns of the pest, an IPM strategy integrating physical, chemical, and biological control methods was proposed: flower head bagging as a physical barrier significantly reduced plant damage but required balancing the risk of seed sterility. A combination lure (broad-spectrum fruit fly lure + a mixture of sugar and vinegar) showed a significant effect in attracting and killing adult flies. In chemical control, spraying a combination of insecticides (DB: 10% β-Cypermethrin aqueous emulsion (9 mL/acre) + 5% avermectin (20 mL/acre)) during the leaf expansion stage to early flowering stage achieved approximately 80% pest mortality within 24 h; additionally, supplementary spraying of 5% broflanilide (30 mL/acre) during the full flowering stage prolonged the efficacy and delayed the development of insecticide resistance. In terms of natural enemy utilization, Lycosidae and Thomisidae demonstrated significant potential for naturally regulating pest populations. Physiological mechanism studies showed that the difference in responses between plant catalase (CAT) activity and insect glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity was a key factor driving control efficacy (the cumulative explanation rate reached 94%). This IPM strategy, by integrating physical barriers, dynamic trapping, targeted spraying, and natural enemy control, significantly enhances control efficiency and ecological compatibility, providing a theoretical basis and technical paradigm for the ecological restoration of degraded alpine grasslands and the sustainable management of medicinal plants in cold regions. Full article

This study explores how the consistency between work–family boundary preferences and boundary enactment affects employee well-being by applying polynomial regression and response surface analysis. Using two-wave data from 420 employees in consulting firms in China, recruited via snowball sampling, bootstrapping was conducted to examine whether reduced work–family conflict mediates this relationship. The results show that consistency between preferences and enactment is positively related to job satisfaction and depression–enthusiasm well-being but has no significant effect on anxiety–comfort well-being. Anxiety–comfort and depression–enthusiasm well-being are higher when both preferences and enactment are high compared to when both are low. Work–family conflict plays a mediating role in this relationship. This research adds to the boundary management literature by highlighting the importance of aligning work–family boundary preferences with enactment. The findings suggest that organizations can improve employee well-being by supporting boundary management practices that match individual preferences. Full article

Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), represents a major global threat to wheat (Triticum aestivum. L). Planting varieties with adult-plant resistance (APR) is an effective approach for long-term management of this disease. The Chinese winter wheat variety Lantian 25 exhibits moderate-to-high APR against stripe rust under field conditions. To investigate the genetic basis of APR in Lantian 25, a set of 219 F₆ recombinant inbred lines (RILs) was created from a cross between Lantian 25 (resistant parent) and Huixianhong (susceptible parent). These RILs were assessed for maximum disease severity (MDS) in Pixian of Sichuan and Qingshui of Gansu over the 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 growing seasons, resulting in data from four different environments. Genotyping was performed on these lines and their parents using the wheat Illumina 50K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays. Composite interval mapping (CIM) identified six quantitative trait loci (QTL), named QYr.gaas-2BS, QYr.gaas-2BL, QYr.gaas-2DS, QYr.gaas-2DL, QYr.gaas-3BS and QYr.gaas-4BL, which were consistently found across two or more environments and explained 4.8–12.0% of the phenotypic variation. Of these, QYr.gaas-2BL, QYr.gaas-2DS, and QYr.gaas-3BS overlapped with previous studies, whereas QYr.gaas-2BS, QYr.gaas-2DS, and QYr.gaas-4BL might be novel. All the resistance alleles for these QTL originated from Lantian 25. Furthermore, four kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers, Kasp_2BS_YR (QYr.gaas-2BS), Kasp_2BL_YR (QYr.gaas-2BL), Kasp_2DS_YR (QYr.gaas-2DS) and Kasp_2DL_YR (QYr.gaas-2DL), were developed and validated in 110 wheat diverse accessions. Additionally, we identified seven candidate genes linked to stripe rust resistance, including disease resistance protein RGA2, serine/threonine-protein kinase, F-box family proteins, leucine-rich repeat family proteins, and E3 ubiquitin-protein ligases. These QTL, along with their associated KASP markers, hold promise for enhancing stripe rust resistance in wheat breeding programs. Full article