Search Results (1,976)

Background: Binge eating disorder (BED) frequently arises during the transitional age (18–25 years), a critical developmental period characterized by challenges in autonomy, identity formation, and interpersonal functioning. This study investigated psychopathological predictors of BED risk in this age group, with particular focus on parental bonding, attachment style, body dissatisfaction, alexithymia, and depressive symptoms. Methods: A total of 287 participants aged 18–25 years completed the Binge Eating Scale (BES), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ), and Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI). Sociodemographic information and body mass index (BMI) were also collected. Results: Compared with non-BED risk groups, individuals at risk of BED exhibited significantly higher BMI, greater alexithymia, higher body dissatisfaction, more insecure attachment patterns, and lower recalled paternal and maternal care. Hierarchical binary logistic regression revealed that the final model explained 56.1% of the variance (Nagelkerke R²) and correctly classified 92.1% of cases. Significant predictors of BED included body dissatisfaction, elevated BMI, low maternal care, and low maternal protection. Conclusions: This study is the first to examine BED risk factors specifically during the transitional age. Findings indicate that body image dissatisfaction, higher BMI, and inadequate maternal emotional care and protection are salient predictors at this life stage. Preventive interventions should integrate parental psychoeducation, nutritional guidance, and therapeutic strategies addressing both eating disorder symptoms and attachment-related difficulties to reduce BED onset and improve psychosocial outcomes in emerging adults. Full article

Background: Trimetazidine is a clinically established cardioprotective agent with anti-ischemic and antioxidant properties, widely used in the management of coronary artery disease. Combining its metabolic and cytoprotective effects with the potent anti-inflammatory activity of profens presents a promising therapeutic strategy. Methods: Five novel trimetazidine–profen hybrid compounds were synthesized using N,N′-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-mediated coupling and structurally characterized by NMR and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Their antioxidant activity was evaluated by hydroxyl radical scavenging assays (HRSA), and the anti-inflammatory potential was assessed via the inhibition of albumin denaturation (IAD). Lipophilicity was determined chromatographically. Molecular docking and 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations were performed to investigate the binding modes and stability in human serum albumin (HSA) binding sites. The acute toxicity of the hybrid molecules was predicted in silico using GUSAR software. Results: All synthesized hybrids demonstrated varying degrees of biological activity, with compound 3c exhibiting the most potent antioxidant (HRSA IC₅₀ = 71.13 µg/mL) and anti-inflammatory (IAD IC₅₀ = 108.58 µg/mL) effects. Lipophilicity assays indicated moderate membrane permeability, with compounds 3c and 3d showing favorable profiles. Docking studies revealed stronger binding affinities of S-enantiomers, particularly 3c and 3d, to Sudlow sites II and III in HSA. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable ligand–protein complexes, highlighting compound 3c as maintaining consistent and robust interactions. The toxicity results indicate that most hybrids, particularly compounds 3b–3d, exhibit a favorable safety profile compared to the parent trimetazidine. Conclusion: The hybrid trimetazidine–profen compounds synthesized herein, especially compound 3c, demonstrate promising dual antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapeutic potential. Their stable interaction with serum albumin and balanced physicochemical properties support further development as novel agents for managing ischemic heart disease and associated inflammatory conditions. Full article

Objectives: Acute drug poisoning represents a significant public health issue among the pediatric population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of drug poisoning in children and adolescents in the Vojvodina region from 2018 to 2023. Methods: In a retrospective observational study, 82 patients with confirmed drug poisoning were included, and data was collected regarding demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, types of drugs involved, and the therapeutic interventions administered. The severity of poisonings was evaluated using the Poisoning Severity Score, and toxicological analysis was performed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Results: The results indicated that poisonings were most prevalent in adolescent girls (72%), with 78% of cases resulting from intentional poisoning, while unintentional poisoning was more common in children. Benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and analgesics were the primary drugs causing these poisoning incidents. The majority of patients (78%) experienced mild clinical symptoms, whereas 9% of pediatric patients suffered from severe poisoning, related to complications such as aspiration pneumonia and acute renal failure. Addressing pediatric drug poisoning in Vojvodina requires an increased focus on preventive strategies, including parental education and appropriate psychosocial support for the youth. Conclusions: Through collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers, prevention, treatment, and support mechanisms can be enhanced to combat this pressing public health challenge. Full article

Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis remains a leading cause of hospitalization in infants, particularly those with risk factors such as prematurity or chronic diseases. Nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody, has recently been approved for RSV prevention. However, parental acceptance of this novel immunoprophylaxis is crucial for effective implementation. The aim of this study was to investigate parental acceptance of nirsevimab prophylaxis for RSV among eligible neonates in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, and to identify factors influencing decision making. Methods: A prospective, multicenter observational study enrolled 1042 parents of neonates eligible for nirsevimab prophylaxis according to regional criteria. Parents completed a semi-structured questionnaire during pre-immunization counseling, exploring knowledge, attitudes, perceived risks, information sources, and willingness to accept prophylaxis. Statistical analysis assessed associations between parental characteristics and acceptance rates. Results: Among the 1042 respondents, 87.0% (n = 907) expressed willingness to administer nirsevimab to their child, while 2.2% (n = 23) refused and 8.8% (n = 92) were undecided. Higher acceptance was significantly associated with awareness of RSV risks (72.1% vs. 41.7%, p < 0.01), belief in nirsevimab’s high efficacy (46.2% vs. 18.3%, p < 0.01), and lower concern over side effects (10.6% vs. 27.8%, p < 0.01). Trust in primary care pediatricians and the healthcare system was also notably higher among accepting parents (p < 0.001). Willingness to pay declined with a hypothetical EUR 250 cost but remained higher among the acceptance group (71.0% vs. 50.4%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Parental acceptance of nirsevimab in Emilia-Romagna was high, though significant gaps in knowledge and concerns about safety persist. Targeted educational strategies that clarify the nature, efficacy, and safety of nirsevimab—alongside maintaining cost-free access—are essential to support the successful implementation of RSV prophylaxis programs. Full article

(1) Background: Prematurity remains a leading contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality, with long-term consequences that extend well beyond the neonatal period. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify key maternal, perinatal, and neonatal factors that influence the short- and long-term evolution of preterm infants. It also seeks to evaluate the level of post-discharge follow-up care, parental involvement during NICU hospitalization, access to supportive therapies such as physiotherapy and RSV prophylaxis, and the impact of breastfeeding practices. Additionally, the study explores parental awareness and use of recent national initiatives in Romania, such as the “Premature and Vulnerable Newborn’s Notebook”. (2) Methods: A total of 360 mothers of preterm infants born between 2001 and 2025 responded to a structured questionnaire assessing clinical characteristics, NICU care, parental involvement, and post-discharge support. (3) Results: The findings indicate that assisted reproduction and pregnancy plurality were associated with higher maternal age, while vaginal delivery was associated with lower gestational age at birth. Notably, only 25% of infants were enrolled in structured follow-up programs, and a large proportion of families relied on private services for physical therapy. Kangaroo mother care was reported by just 16.4% of mothers. While breastfeeding rates improved after discharge, access to multidisciplinary follow-up and public physiotherapy remains limited. Encouragingly, most mothers endorsed the proposed national initiative for a “Premature and Vulnerable Newborn’s Notebook.” (4) Conclusions: This study underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive national follow-up strategy to ensure equitable and continuous care for Romania’s vulnerable preterm population. Full article

School refusal behavior, defined as a child’s prolonged voluntary absence from school for reasons unrelated to illness and/or economic hardship, is a growing concern in Japan. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened this issue by disrupting children’s lives. This review summarizes the prevalence, contributing factors, and health implications of school refusal, particularly in the context of COVID-19. A literature review of government reports and PubMed-indexed studies indicates that school refusal in Japan has been rising for eleven years, reaching a record 340,000 cases in 2023. Middle school students (6.7%) were the most affected, followed by elementary school students (2.1%). The pandemic intensified school-related, family-related, and child-related risk factors. School closures disrupted routines, reduced peer interactions, and increased social isolation, contributing to higher rates of anxiety and depression. Reports of suicides and mental health disorders among children have also surged. Family stressors, including economic hardship and parental mental health struggles, further exacerbate school refusal. Additionally, remote learning has widened socioeconomic disparities in access to education, leaving vulnerable children at greater risk. Addressing school refusal requires a multifaceted approach involving schools, families, healthcare providers, and policymakers. School-based interventions, mental health approach, and flexible educational programs would be essential. The Japanese government’s “COCOLO Plan” represents progress toward a more inclusive education system, and a comprehensive, interdisciplinary strategy is needed. Ensuring all children receive the necessary support to reengage with education is critical to overcoming the long-term challenges posed by school refusal. 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

Young children’s problematic media use (PMU) is a growing concern, and parents are critical in shaping early digital habits. However, research often overlooks the dyadic interplay between mothers’ and fathers’ attitudes and parenting practices. This study examined how parents’ favorable attitudes toward child screen media (PASU) predict their own (actor) and their partner’s (partner) mediation behaviors, and how these behaviors subsequently mediate the path to children’s PMU. Drawing on survey data from 1802 matched urban Chinese mother–father pairs, we employed an Actor–Partner Interdependence Mediation Model (APIMeM) within a structural equation modeling (SEM) framework. This dyadic model simultaneously tested actor, partner, and indirect mediation paths connecting parental attitudes to PMU via eight specific parenting practices. Results showed that more positive PASUs predicted each parent’s own supportive behaviors (e.g., high-quality dialogue, autonomy support) but not restrictive limits. Partner effects were modest and asymmetric: mothers’ positive attitudes predicted greater knowledge in fathers, whereas fathers’ positive attitudes were linked to lower communication quality from mothers. Of all parenting dimensions, only higher communication quality (both parents) and mothers’ hands-on monitoring directly predicted lower PMU. Mediation analyses confirmed communication quality as the sole reliable pathway: each parent’s favorable attitudes indirectly lowered PMU by enhancing their own dialogue, but fathers’ attitudes simultaneously increased PMU by eroding mothers’ dialogue. These findings spotlight constructive conversation and coordinated dyadic strategies—especially safeguarding maternal dialogue—as critical targets for interventions aimed at curbing early PMU. Full article

Fraxinus spp. is one of the most important salt-alkali resistant tree species in the Yellow River region of China. However, the limited number of superior families and individuals, as well as the lack of a well-established parent selection system for hybrid breeding, have seriously constrained the improvement of seed orchards and the construction of advanced breeding populations. To address these issues, this study investigated 22 full-sib families of Fraxinus spp., using SSR molecular markers to calculate the genetic distance (GD) between parents. Combined with combining ability analysis, the study aimed to predict heterosis in offspring growth traits and select superior families and individuals through multi-trait comprehensive evaluation. The results showed the following: (1) Tree height (TH), diameter at breast height (DBH), and volume index (VI) exhibited extremely significant differences among families, indicating rich variation and strong selection potential. (2) The phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation for TH, DBH, and VI ranged from 4.34% to 16.04% and 5.10% to 17.73%, respectively. Family heritability was relatively high, ranging from 0.724 to 0.818, suggesting that growth is under strong genetic control. (3) The observed and expected heterozygosity of 15 parents were 0.557 and 0.410, respectively, indicating a moderate level of heterozygosity. Nei’s genetic diversity index and Shannon’s information index were 0.488 and 0.670, respectively, indicating relatively high genetic diversity. GD between parents ranged from 0.155 to 0.723. (4) Correlation analysis revealed significant or highly significant positive correlations between family heterosis and growth traits, combining ability, and GD, with specific combining ability (SCA) showing the strongest predictive power. Regression analysis further demonstrated significant linear correlations between GD and heterosis of TH and VI, and between SCA and heterosis of TH, DBH, and VI, establishing a GD threshold (≤0.723) and SCA-based co-selection strategy. In addition, four superior Fraxinus families and 11 elite individuals were selected. Their genetic gains for TH, DBH, and VI reached 2.28%, 3.30%, and 9.96% (family selection), and 1.98%, 2.11%, and 4.00% (individual selection), respectively. By integrating genetic distance (GD) and quantitative genetic combining ability (SCA), this study established a quantifiable prediction model and proposed the “GD–SCA dual-index parent selection method”, offering a new paradigm for genetic improvement in tree breeding. Full article

Background/Objectives: Parents of individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) often carry significant emotional and relational burdens, yet their voices remain underrepresented in addiction research. This study explores how Greek parents navigate the long-term challenges of caring for adult children with SUDs, with a focus on emotional strain, caregiving identity, and culturally embedded coping strategies within a collectivist context. Methods: Eight Greek parents (six mothers and two fathers, aged 47–60) participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Conversations were conducted either in person or via video call, depending on participant preference and geographical constraints. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to explore lived experience and the meaning-making processes shaping parental coping over time. Results: Four overarching themes were identified as follows: (1) Living in Vigilance, reflecting constant hyper-alertness, emotional exhaustion, and social withdrawal rooted in trauma; (2) Shifting Parental Identity, capturing the evolution of parents into caregivers, advocates, and informal caseworkers amid systemic neglect; (3) Struggling Within Systems, highlighting exclusion, blame, and fragmentation in institutional care—with moments of empathy holding outsized emotional weight; and (4) Coping as Cultural Duty, showing how caregiving was sustained through values of sacrifice, loyalty, and protective silence, even at great personal cost. Conclusions: Greek parents supporting adult children with SUDs face a complex interplay of trauma, cultural obligation, and institutional strain. Their coping is shaped by deeply held familial values rather than access to effective support. The findings call for culturally attuned, family-inclusive interventions and further research into long-term caregiving across diverse contexts. Full article

Background: This systematic review aims to summarize the most recent data from the literature on the psychological aspects of parents of children prenatally diagnosed with congenital heart defects (CHDs). Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies on the psychological issues faced by parents of children prenatally diagnosed with CHD. Searches were performed in multiple scientific databases, including PubMed, Science direct, Embase, Scopus, Medline, Clarivate, to ensure the broad coverage of the literature. The search was limited to studies published up until February 2025. The search strategy included the following terms and combinations: “congenital heart defect” OR “CHD” AND “prenatal diagnosis” AND “psychological impact” OR “parental distress” OR “coping”. Results: Eighteen studies involving the 673 parents of fetuses diagnosed with congenital heart defects were included. Studies spanned four continents and employed both qualitative (n = 14) and quantitative (n = 4) designs. Key psychological outcomes reported were anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic stress, coping strategies, maternal–fetal attachment, and life satisfaction. Anxiety and depression were the most frequent issues, with maternal anxiety reaching 65% and depression up to 45.7%. Stress related to diagnostic uncertainty was common. While some parents used adaptive coping (social support, emotional regulation), others experienced maladaptive patterns such as avoidance. One study reported increased maternal–fetal attachment following prenatal CHD diagnosis. Predictors of psychological distress included time of diagnosis, parental gender, education level, social support, and severity of the defect. Recommended interventions included early psychological screening, empathetic communication, structured counseling, and long-term emotional support. Despite heterogeneity in design and moderate overall bias, findings highlight a consistent psychological burden among parents, underscoring the need for integrated psychosocial care following a prenatal CHD diagnosis. Conclusions: Parents whose children have been prenatally diagnosed with a congenital heart defect are at an increased risk for psychological distress. To improve the quality of care, a multidisciplinary team is needed to provide parents with the necessary information on diagnosis, interventions, and potential outcomes. Full article

Chronic skin wounds are difficult to heal or nonhealing. These wounds may become infected and progress to tissue necrosis, potentially leading to limb amputation, sepsis, reduced quality of life, depression, economic burden on the healthcare system, and social isolation. Several clinical strategies, including negative pressure wound therapy, antibiotic-based infection control, and wound debridement, have been developed to treat skin wounds. However, these approaches primarily target local wound conditions and offer only short-term relief, not achieving sustained functional regeneration. Stem cell-based therapy has emerged as an alternative therapeutic method for skin wound treatment owing to its ability to suppress inflammation, stimulate angiogenesis, and promote cellular proliferation. However, the low post-transplantation survival rate of stem cells remains a major limitation. Exosomes, nanosized extracellular vesicles, transport proteins, lipids, mRNAs, and miRNAs and mediate regenerative functions, including anti-inflammatory effects, angiogenesis promotion, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Stem cell-derived exosomes (SC-Exos) offer several advantages over their parent cells, including greater stability, lower immunogenicity, absence of tumorigenic risks, and ease of storage and distribution. These attributes render SC-Exos particularly attractive for cell-free regenerative therapies. In this review, we introduce exosomes derived from various types of stem cells and explore their therapeutic applications in skin wound regeneration. Full article

Improving the efficacy of microbial biocontrol agents is a pivotal strategy for sustainable management of rice blast and sheath blight caused by Pyricularia oryzae and Rhizoctonia solani, respectively, in Vietnam. In this study, Trichoderma sp. TVN-A0 and Trichoderma sp. TVN-H0 were irradiated by gamma to generate mutants for screening the enhanced antagonistic activity against P. oryzae and R. solani. The potential mutants were screened by antifungal metabolite production via the cellophane membrane assay (I_CM), antagonistic performance through dual culture confrontation assays (I_DC), volatile organic compound bioassays (I_VOCs), and chitinase activity. As a result, among five potential mutants derived from each wild-type strain (AM1-AM5 and HM1-HM5), mutant AM2 originated from TVN-A0, and mutant HM2 derived from TVN-H0 demonstrated the highest inhibition rates and chitinase activities. The AM2 exhibited I_CM of 96.71% against R. solani, 92.57% against P. oryzae, I_DC of 87.76%, and I_VOCs of 83.57%, while HM2 possessed I_CM of 95.33% against R. solani, 85.28% against P. oryzae, I_DC of 91.24%, and I_VOCs of 79.33%. The genetic differences among mutants and their parents were investigated by RAPD. The non-GMO AM2 and HM2 mutants are promising candidates for biocontrol of the diseases caused by P. oryzae and R. solani in Vietnam. Full article

Background/Objectives: Empathy is a core competency in nursing, contributing to patient care quality and professional resilience. This study investigated empathy levels among Greek undergraduate nursing students at the University of Peloponnese and examined the personal and educational factors that contribute to empathic development. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 144 students from all academic years using the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy—Health Professions (JSPE-HP) and the SF-12 Health Survey. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and stepwise multiple linear regression. Results: Mean empathy scores were relatively high (M = 110.31, SD = 10.52). Empathy increased significantly with academic progression (p < 0.001), and higher scores were associated with parental status (p = 0.030) and better mental health (p = 0.044). Conversely, students with a chronically ill close contact reported lower empathy (p = 0.018). Regression analysis identified having children and exposure to chronic illness as significant predictors. Conclusions: Educational progression, life experience, and well-being are key contributors to empathy development. These insights support strategies to enhance empathy through curriculum design, student support, and wellness programs. Integrating empathy training into management policy can foster professional growth, reduce burnout, and improve patient care and workforce sustainability. Full article

The recent reform of the preschool curriculum in Latvia signifies a paradigm shift with the objective of fostering holistic skill development. The success of this implementation is largely attributed to the pivotal role played by teacher perspectives. The present study investigates the views of pre-service early childhood teachers in Latvia on the transformation of the preschool mathematics education curriculum following the reform in 2019. A descriptive research design was employed, involving 54 focus group discussions with 271 part-time students from the University of Latvia and its regional branches. During the focus group discussions, participants analyzed and compared the changes in aims, content, assessment practices, and instructional strategies in mathematics education at the preschool level across mathematics curricula. The findings indicate an increasing appreciation for clarity in instruction, age-appropriate design, and the shift towards interactive, skills-based strategies. While prospective teachers generally support the aim of the reform, there are evident gaps in their understanding of formative assessment, integration of parental involvement, and promotion of higher-order thinking and real-life problem-solving. The study emphasizes the significance of enhancing teacher training, curriculum design, and educational policy to facilitate effective and meaningful implementation of the revised mathematics curriculum in preschool contexts. Full article