Search Results (276)

Background Objectives: Parental anxiety and depression demonstrate bidirectional connections with child developmental outcomes (e.g., disruptive behavior). Directly targeting child development through behavioral parent training (BPT) has potential for reversing this cycle. Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), a BPT with robust research evidence for decreasing child disruptive behaviors, has demonstrated promise in also decreasing caregiver anxiety and depression. However, the mechanisms that explain this relationship are less understood. Methods: The current study examined whether caregivers (N = 840) completing time-limited PCIT experienced significant reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms and improvements in child disruptive behaviors at each time point. Generalized estimate equation analyses assessed whether caregiver anxiety and depression moderated changes in child disruptive behavior. Mediation analyses explored the extent that changes in caregiver–child interactions over time explained changes in family outcomes. Results: Child disruptive behavior and caregiver depression and anxiety symptoms improved significantly at each time point of PCIT. Change in child behavioral outcomes was significantly moderated by caregiver race. Caregivers with higher anxiety reported fewer improvements in child disruptive behavior compared to other caregivers. Changes in caregiver anxiety and depression over the course of treatment were partially mediated by improvement in caregiver–child interaction skills. Changes in child disruptive behavior were not mediated by improvement in caregiver–child interaction skills. Conclusions: Results demonstrate that time-limited PCIT could significantly improve caregiver anxiety and depression, and some PCIT-taught parenting skills are direct drivers of this process. Further research is needed to understand other mechanisms underlying the relationship between PCIT and improved family outcomes. Full article

This study investigates how the timing of self-employment relative to first childbirth shapes long-term entrepreneurial outcomes among Israeli mothers. Drawing on rich administrative panel data from the Israeli National Insurance Institute (N = 73,141 woman-years), we follow a cohort of women who gave birth for the first time in 2010, tracking their employment trajectories over 15 years (2005–2019). Using random-effect logistic regressions, OLS models, and fixed subgroup analyses, this study compares women who entered self-employment before childbirth with those who did so afterward. The results reveal that postnatal entrants are more likely to operate smaller businesses and exit self-employment earlier, yet often earn higher income from wage employment, compared to their prenatal counterparts. By tracing these outcomes over time, this study demonstrates how key life events, such as childbirth, structure women’s employment paths and contribute to differentiated patterns of labor market participation. Situated in a context of near-universal motherhood and limited public support for working parents, the findings offer insight into the dynamic links between family formation, employment timing, and entrepreneurial sustainability. By adopting a life-course perspective, this study demonstrates how the sequencing of family and employment transitions intersect to shape access to economic resources and entrepreneurial sustainability. Full article

Pummelo (Citrus maxima) is an ancestral species that has given rise to several major citrus varieties, such as sweet orange (C. x aurantium var. sinensis) and grapefruit (C. x aurantium var. paradisi). This species is also cultivated and its fruit consumed, particularly in Asia. Over the course of evolution, the allogamous reproduction of pummelos and the absence of asexual multiplication have contributed to its diversification. To assess its phenotypic diversity and the chemical composition of leaf and peel essential oils, genetic analysis using DNA markers is an essential prerequisite to ensure the identity and if varieties belong to this species. Fifty-eight accessions classified as grapefruits or pummelos were analyzed using 42 SSRs, 4 Indels, and 36 SNP markers. Based on the allelic composition of these markers, 20 cultivars were detected belonging to pummelos, 18 cultivars to grapefruits, and 11 were interspecific hybrids. The grapefruit inter-cultivar SSR diversity is null. The genetic origin of five interspecific hybrids is elucidated. The level of phenotypic diversity and of essential oil composition corroborate the modes of diversification, with high levels for those resulting from crosses and very low levels for the group of grapefruit mutants. Only the characteristics of breeding selection (pulp color, acidity and aspermia) are variable in grapefruits. In the composition of leaf essential oils (LEOs), nine profiles were detected in grapefruits based on variations in six compounds (neral, geranial, β-phellandrene, γ-terpinene, (E)-β-ocimene, and β-pinene). The seven interspecific hybrids involving pummelo as one parent show particular LEO profiles but without specific compounds, with the exception of p-cymenene which is present only in Wheeny. The diversity of peel essential oils in pummelos is lower, but variations in γ-terpinene, β-pinene, limonene, and myrcene make it possible to define seven profiles. With genetic verification the chemical and phenotypic diversity of the two species, pummelo and grapefruit, revealed in this study can be used as a reference for behavior in a specific environment. Full article

This paper explores the critical role of bilingual Latina educators as cultural mediators in fostering inclusive and effective parent engagement within schools. It calls for a shift from traditional, deficit-oriented approaches to parent engagement towards a strengths-based model that recognizes the valuable knowledge and contributions of families and for the incorporation of parent engagement courses in teacher education to better prepare educators for this critical work. Drawing from teacher reflections, this paper examines the unique ways in which these educators navigate cultural, linguistic, and systemic barriers to create spaces where Latinx families feel seen, heard, and valued. This paper highlights four key themes: (1) the role of bilingual educators as cultural and linguistic translators, (2) the challenge of reframing the deficit-based perspectives of Latinx families, (3) the importance of relationship-building through home visits, and (4) the emotional labor involved in advocating for marginalized families. Through these reflections, this paper advocates for systemic changes, emphasizing the need for formal institutional support for bilingual educators. It concludes by urging schools to adopt flexible, culturally responsive strategies that build long-term partnerships between educators and families. Full article

Brief family support interventions may be an effective and acceptable option when demands on services and pressures on families can often mean intensive, long-term family support interventions are an inefficient and unappealing course of action. The purpose of this scoping review was to better understand the nature of non-medical brief interventions targeted at parents and families experiencing adversity or challenging circumstances that may lead them to seek support from family services. We used a systematic search and selection process to identify publications (papers or webpages) about brief interventions for parents and families within three academic databases and 70 websites. Publications were in scope if the interventions were targeted to parents and families, were non-medical in nature, and were brief (no longer than 10 h duration, or up to four sessions). We identified 78 papers and webpages eligible for inclusion in this scoping review, covering 46 brief interventions. Data were extracted by two researchers and charted in a spreadsheet. Most interventions were delivered in the mental health sector, followed by the education, and then community or family services sector, and most often in a clinical setting. Intervention duration varied, ranging from 45 min to a two-day workshop, and were usually aimed at improving the mental health of children and young people. Interventions were delivered to groups of parents, followed by whole families or individual parents. This review highlights the pressing need for high-quality evaluations of brief interventions for family support, and given the diversity of delivery modes, durations and conceptualisation of ‘brief intervention’ in the field and literature, further synthesis of the evidence through systematic reviews is required. This paper advances understanding and clarity on how brief interventions may be beneficial for families experiencing adversity, yet further evaluation and systematic review for acceptability and efficacy is required. Full article

Background: Externalizing, internalizing and social problems are frequent comorbidities for children with ADHD. This study explored the effects of methylphenidate versus a child and parents’ parallel mindfulness program (MYmind) on children’s internalizing, externalizing and social problems. Data came from our RCT investigating treatment effects on the primary outcome of children’s ADHD symptoms. Methods: Children followed their ascribed course of treatment for 4 months: 46 children were in the mindfulness group and 42 in the medication group. Multilevel modeling analyzed the responses of four informants (mothers, fathers, children and teachers) across three follow-up points: short-term (2 months), medium-term (4 months) and long-term (10 months). Results: Both treatment groups improved from the baseline across all outcomes. No differences were found between groups on improvement of mindful awareness as reported by children at any time point. At the short-term follow-up, children in the medication group showed greater reductions as compared to those in the mindfulness group on internalizing problems (as observed by mothers), externalizing problems (mothers; fathers) and social problems (mothers; teachers). At the medium-term follow-up, children in the medication group still showed larger reductions in externalizing problems as observed by fathers, but on all other outcomes, informants’ reports did not differ between groups. At the long-term follow-up, none of the informants reported any differences between treatment groups in effects on internalizing, externalizing or social problems. Conclusions: Given the observations of similar improvements at short-, medium- and long-term, mindfulness might be a viable option for families of children with ADHD who are seeking an alternative to medication to reduce comorbid externalizing, internalizing and/or social problems. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease which has a rather complex pathophysiology. During its course, several neurotransmitter neuronal systems get affected such as acetylcholinergic, glutamatergic, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic systems, etc. Such complex physiology requires a sophisticated approach to pharmaceutical management. Therefore, multi-target drugs seem to be an appealing solution. In the present study, we designed and synthesized a hybrid molecule—N-sinapoylamide of memantine, whose parent molecules memantine (MEM) and sinapic acid have been shown in vivo to impact glutamatergic, acetylcholinergic, and GABA-ergic systems, respectively. In silico comparative testing of these molecules was performed, their patterns of interaction with the target enzymes or molecular complexes were analyzed, and some of the mechanisms of action were proposed. Consequently, in vivo testing was performed on a scopolamine mice model of AD and the results overly confirm part of the in silico findings. Therefore, the hybrid molecule (N-Sinapoyl-memantine) seems to be a potent candidate for further evaluation in the management of AD. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Proximal femoral focal deficiency (PFFD), also referred to as congenital femoral deficiency, is a longitudinal limb deficiency and birth defect that affects the lower extremity including the hip and femur, resulting in a deformed and shortened limb. It can be diagnosed and classified using a combination of imaging modalities, including radiographs, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomography. It is crucial to characterize this birth defect in the prenatal period to appropriately prepare parents through counseling. Postnatal imaging should be performed to confirm the diagnosis, prognosticate and predict the patient’s course for treatment and management. Close follow-up and family/patient-centered care contribute to optimized patient outcomes. Case Presentation: Here, we present a series of three cases of varying PFFD severity and presentation, detailing the evaluation process, the limitations and value of imaging, and the treatment outcomes of these patients. Each case has a different PFFD classification and treatment strategy that we utilized according to the data that we attained through continuous patient care and discussion. Conclusions: We highlight the difficulties in identifying and classifying PFFD in the prenatal period while demonstrating how postnatal imaging clarified the diagnosis and informed appropriate counseling and treatment. Close follow-up and the length of patient continuity allowed us to maximize patient outcomes despite the variety in PFFD presentation and severity. Full article

Background: Social isolation, national turmoil, and an adolescent mental health crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in a significant uptick in inpatient admissions and re-admissions for high-risk patients. This trend persists even as the pandemic wanes. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) serve as a critical steppingstone between the community and inpatient mental health services, providing comprehensive psychiatric care for at-risk youth. Significant research has identified family engagement as a key element of successful collaborative care in adolescents. Objectives: This article provides models of family-centered care in the adolescent IOP through a case study detailing the six-week course of care of an adolescent struggling with increased emotionality and distress intolerance in the context of family conflicts. Methods: This case highlights five family engagement components, including (1) family-centered psychiatric medication management, (2) individualized case management, parental education, and peer support, (3) Measurement Based Care (MBC) family assessment and feedback sessions, (4) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) multi-family skill groups, and (5) Compassionate Home Action Together (CHATogether) family intervention to address teen–parent relational health and communication. Results: This case showed improvement in depressive and anxiety symptoms, family conflict behaviors, self-reported suicide risk, and help-seeking attitudes towards parents/adults. The case family, along with others (n = 26), endorsed the parent peer support groups’ acceptability and feasibility implemented in the adolescent IOP. Conclusions: This article emphasizes the importance of family engagement during clinical care and provides a practical guide to implement collaborative family-centered therapeutic interventions in intensive outpatient services. Full article

Children with onco-hematological diseases require intensive medical treatments that can affect various aspects of their development. In addition to the disease itself, what influences the course of development most are the neurotoxic effects of therapies and frequent hospitalizations, especially if they occur in the first three years of the child’s life. Among these challenges there is the potential for language delay, a condition that can impact their communication abilities and overall development. Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to examine communicative and linguistic development in a small group of young children diagnosed with different forms of leukemia, rhabdomyosarcoma, and CNS tumors, recruited through the Hematology–Oncology Clinic of the Department of Child and Woman Health (University of Padova). Methods: Child direct (Griffiths III, PinG, PCGO) and parent indirect assessments (PVB, ABAS-II, ASCB) were provided. Results: Griffiths communication subscale scores in children were mainly below average (55.6%), and 44.4% attested at the clinical level in ABAS-II, with the ability to understand being significantly higher than the production of words. However, the two levels of assertiveness–responsiveness obtained balance in 66.7% of cases, and using the Griffiths personal subscale, only 22.2% of children attested below average. Conclusions: Understanding and addressing children’s communication needs is crucial to improve the quality of life of these young patients and foster optimal communicative and linguistic development despite the obstacles they face in order to implement interventions designed specifically for this type of population and their respective families, if necessary. Full article

Environmental education is a vital strategy for conservation and protection, creating collaborative spaces for scientists, community members, and other stakeholders. Across various countries, educational curricula include courses aimed at teaching the younger generation about environmental protection. Interactive and practical educational programs, along with the involvement of parents and the community, enhance learning and create connections between school and daily life. Curriculum changes are influenced by several factors, including children’s understanding and application of these concepts. Various methods, such as questionnaire analysis, have been developed for this purpose. This study assessed the knowledge levels and behaviors regarding the environmental factor “water” among primary school students in Bacău, Romania. Conducted through a questionnaire method, the survey included 308 students from grades 2 to 4. The findings highlight the significance of environmental education in primary schools, preparing children to act responsibly towards the environment. It is recommended to implement interactive educational programs and foster partnerships with the community and local organizations to promote water conservation and reduce consumption, thereby cultivating a long-term sustainable culture. Full article

This research study was conducted to pilot an out-of-school family science program for fifth- and sixth-grade Latina girls and their parents. Program goals included encouraging parents in supporting their Latina daughters in science, increasing the girls’ interest in science and increasing the families’ participation in science experiences together. The 41 families participated in a 7-week Saturday program on either rocketry or gardening. Each week, the parent–daughter dyads engaged in hands-on Family Problem-Based Learning activities together and then the parents and daughters met separately in Conversation Groups. To measure the impact of the program, surveys were administered to the parents and daughters separately at four points: pre-, mid-, post- and delayed-post (three months after the program). Parents reported increases over time for several aspects of their support for their daughters in science and also increases in frequency of science experiences with their daughters. The daughters reported increases over time in their science identity and their discussions with their parents about jobs in science. In addition, the examination of video-recordings of a subset of the parent–daughter interactions during the activities revealed that parental and daughter behaviors evolved over the course of the program. Implications for engaging parents in science education are discussed. Full article

Background: Being breastfed, following a healthy diet and staying active during childhood shape health trajectories across the life course, promoting long-term well-being. Despite the growing immigrant child population in Portugal, evidence on these behaviours, particularly among preschool-aged children, remains limited. In this context, this study examines the associations between migrant status and breastfeeding patterns, fruit and vegetable consumption, and participation in sports among children living in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. Methods: A cross-sectional study nested within a cross-sequential cohort was carried out in the Lisbon region between May 2022 and April 2024. Approximately 760 children (49.4% immigrants) born in 2018 and 2020 were enrolled in the study. Data were collected through a face-to-face interview with parents, using a structured questionnaire with information on socioeconomic variables, migration history, breastfeeding habits, and children’s diet (fruit and vegetable consumption) and physical activity. We used parametric and non-parametric tests to compare migrant and non-migrant children. To quantify factors associated with the main outcomes, we estimated a logistic regression model and calculated crude and adjusted odds ratios and their respective 95%CI. Results: Immigrant children were disproportionately represented in socioeconomically disadvantaged families. Breastfeeding initiation rates were higher among immigrant mothers (96.3% vs. 87.6%, p < 0.001). Additionally, immigrant mothers had a longer median duration of any breastfeeding (14 vs. 8 months, p < 0.001) and of exclusive breastfeeding (6 vs. 4 months, p < 0.001). Immigrant children had significantly lower odds of consuming three or more portions of fruit (aOR = 0.700; 95%CI: 0.511–0.959; p = 0.027) and two or more portions of vegetables per day (aOR = 0.489; 95%CI: 0.350–0.684; p < 0.001) compared with non-immigrant children. They were also twice as likely to not engage in sports (aOR = 2.185; 95%CI: 1.512–3.158; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Breastfeeding was better implemented in immigrant children. The findings highlight the need to address social determinants of health and the challenges faced by immigrant families in promoting a balanced diet and sports participation for their children. Multisectoral, culturally appropriate interventions that sustain and promote good breastfeeding practices, improve access to healthy food, and encourage sports are crucial to reducing health inequalities. Full article

Background/Objectives: Parents of children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) experience emotional distress throughout their child’s treatment course. This study describes the psychological experience of Australian and New Zealand parents of children diagnosed with ALL. Methods: This prospective, longitudinal study assessed distress, anxiety, depression, anger and the need for help in parents of children with newly diagnosed ALL across eight sites between October 2018 and November 2022. Psychological symptoms were quantified using the Emotion Thermometer (ET) tool and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) questionnaires. Participants were recruited within ninety days of chemotherapy commencement, with surveys distributed bimonthly thereafter. Results: One hundred and seventeen participants completed 327 survey responses spanning 0 to 62 months post-diagnosis. Parental distress peaked within the first 6 months and 40% of parents reported clinically significant symptoms across four or more domains as measured by our questionnaires. Anxiety was the most consistently elevated symptom, with over 50% of responses above the clinical cut-off. Depression and the need for help also peaked closer to diagnosis and declined over time. In contrast, anger remained stable, with 27% reporting clinically significant scores across all time points. Increased time since diagnosis was significantly associated with reductions in distress, anxiety and depression scores. Conclusions: Australian and New Zealand parents experience high levels of psychological distress within the first six months following their child’s diagnosis of ALL. A notable minority continue to report elevated distress levels over time, identifying a need for improved psychological support for family wellbeing throughout the ALL treatment trajectory. Full article

BOAM is a family-based method in which children and parents together create an explanatory, personal and systemic diagnosis. Based on ten playful and visual models, the therapist provides universal psychoeducation to gain insight into the personal, relational and contextual causes of the child’s problems for a shared understanding of how to approach them. This case report describes a seven-session BOAM trajectory in a family with a 6-year-old child with emotional and behavioural dysregulation, such as frequent temper tantrums, hitting her infant sister, and threatening with knives. In this case report, the course of the sessions is described, including the way the family applied the BOAM models within their (cultural) family values. The mother completed questionnaires on child psychopathology (Child Behaviour Checklist), executive functioning (Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function), parenting stress (Parenting Stress Index) and partner relationship (Family Functioning Questionnaire) at baseline, pretest, post-test, and 3- and 5-month follow-up, and the father completed questionnaires on child psychopathology and parenting stress at baseline and 5-month follow-up. Parents reported clinically significant improvements, as calculated with reliable change indexes, in child externalising psychopathology, self-regulation, and parenting stress (post-test and 3- and 5-month follow-up). BOAM is a short and accessible method for psychoeducation, diagnostics and treatment. BOAM seems to be an effective intervention for this family; however, more research is necessary to demonstrate its effectiveness. This case report painted a vivid picture of how family conversations can be structured and targeted using the models. Full article