Search Results (132)

In China, grandparents play a significant role in childrearing. This study aims to identify latent profiles of intergenerational parenting styles and explore their impact on grandchildren’s behavioral outcomes. A total of 1432 Chinese children (M_age = 12.58 years; 45.25% boys) completed questionnaires assessing perceived grandparenting styles, while fathers and mothers independently reported their own parenting practices. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) identified three distinct parenting profiles: “Grandparents Positive–Parents Negative” (GP–PN, 18.37%), “Grandparents Positive–Parents Positive” (GP–PP, 59.15%), and “Grandparents Negative–Parents Positive” (GN–PP, 22.48%). Regression analyses revealed that the number of siblings, grade level, and grandparent type could significantly predict profile membership. Notably, consistent and positive intergenerational parenting styles were associated with fewer problem behaviors in children. Furthermore, the relationship between parenting profiles and problem behaviors was mediated by the quality of the grandparent–parent relationship. These findings suggested that grandparents and parents should coordinate their parenting styles when raising grandchildren together. Full article

Background: Parents of children with type 1 diabetes play a key role in managing their child’s self-management, which can be stressful and burdensome. High involvement can lead to reactions such as emotional, cognitive, and physical exhaustion in parents. Understanding parents’ psychosocial impact due to their child’s disease is crucial for the family’s overall well-being. The purpose of this study was to describe stress and burden experienced by parents in families with children living with type 1 diabetes. Methods: This study utilized a qualitative approach, analyzing interviews with 16 parents of children aged 10 to 17 years living with T1D through qualitative content analysis. The data collection occurred between January and February 2025. Results: Managing a child’s Type 1 diabetes can be tough on family relationships, affecting how partners interact, intimacy, and sibling relationships. The constant stress and worry might leave parents feeling exhausted, unable to sleep, and struggling to think clearly, on top of the pain of losing a normal everyday life. The delicate balance between allowing a child with type 1 diabetes to be independent and maintaining control over their self-management renders these challenges even more demanding for the parents. Conclusions: Parents’ experiences highlight the need for robust support systems, including dependable school environments, trustworthy technical devices, reliable family and friends, and accessible healthcare guidance. These elements are essential not only for the child’s health and well-being but also for alleviating the emotional and practical burdens parents face. Full article

Background: The impact of donor graft cell composition on post-HCT outcomes in AML remains controversial. Furthermore, it is unknown whether this interacts with pre-HCT MRD status. We evaluated the impact of CD34+ and CD3+ cell doses on outcomes of myeloablative conditioning (MAC) HCT in patients with myelodysplastic neoplasm (MDS)/AML or AML with and without detectable MRD in pre-HCT bone marrow specimens. Methods: We utilized an electronic database to identify all adults ≥18 years with MDS/AML or AML who underwent MAC and received 10/10 HLA-matched sibling or unrelated donor mobilized PBSC allografts in first morphologic remission between 2006 and 2023 at the University of Washington/Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. Results: Among 385 adults, we found a progressive decrease in relapse incidence and improved survival with increasing CD34+ doses up to a threshold of 5.61 × 10⁶/kg, above which the relapse risk no longer decreased. After multivariable adjustment, a low CD34+ dose was associated with increased risk of relapse as well as lower overall and relapse-free survival. Similar results were obtained for patients with and without pre-HCT MRD. Higher CD3+ doses were linearly associated with an increased incidence of moderate–severe chronic GVHD. Conclusions: Our data identify a non-linear relationship between CD34+ cell dose and relapse risk in AML patients undergoing myeloablative allogeneic HCT, with no apparent added benefit beyond a CD34+ dose threshold. Our findings suggest that donor graft composition impacts outcomes in adults with AML undergoing allogeneic HCT after MAC, independent of pre-HCT MRD status; however, additional studies are needed for other donor cell scenarios. Full article

The genus Rhododendron presents significant challenges for systematic classification due to extensive hybridization and adaptive radiation. Here, we employed double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq) to resolve phylogenetic relationships among nine ecologically significant Rhododendron species (34 accessions) endemic to Zhejiang Province, China, a biodiversity hotspot for this genus. Using R. simsii as the reference genome, we generated 39.40 Gb of high-quality sequencing data with a Q30 score of 96.65% and a GC content of 39.63%, achieving an average alignment rate of 92.79%. Through stringent filtering (QD ≥ 2, MQ ≥ 40), we identified 14,048,702 genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), predominantly characterized by the mutation types T:A>C:G and C:G>T:A. The widespread R. simsii and R. simsii var. putuoense exhibited significant genetic diversity, whereas the low-altitude widespread R. molle and the endemic R. simiarum exhibited lower genetic diversity. Moderate genetic differentiation (F_st = 0.097) was observed between R. simsii and R. simsii var. putuoense, while substantial genetic differentiation was detected among the other Rhododendron species. Principal component analysis (PCA), combined with phylogenomic reconstruction, demonstrated that the Rhododendron genus can be stratified into six well-supported genetic clades. Furthermore, this study provides the first genomic validation of the sibling relationship between R. simsii and its variety, R. simsii var. putuoense, and clarifies the systematic position of R. huadingense, suggesting that it should be classified as a new subgenus. This study establishes ddRAD-seq as a cost-effective tool, providing both a theoretical framework for SNP-based phylogenetics and critical insights for conserving China’s azalea biodiversity. Full article

Neurotypical (NT) siblings of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience complex emotional, psychological, behavioral, and social challenges. Understanding the factors that influence their well-being is essential for developing tailored interventions. This systematic review examines the psychological and social functioning of NT siblings and identifies protective and risk factors that impact their adaptation. A systematic search was conducted across EBSCO, PubMed, and Google Scholar, covering studies published between 2013 and 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on research investigating NT siblings’ emotional, psychological, behavioral, and social well-being. Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria and were synthesized narratively. Findings reveal heterogeneous experiences among NT siblings, ranging from increased empathy and resilience to heightened anxiety, depression, and social difficulties. The quality of sibling relationships and social support systems plays a pivotal role in moderating these outcomes. NT siblings represent a vulnerable group requiring family-centered interventions. Future research should adopt longitudinal and multi-informant approaches to explore long-term effects and culturally sensitive support strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of our study was to examine the influence of family structure and the number of siblings on psychological problems and illness-related emotions in children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the relationship between emotional coping in children and parents. Methods: CEDNA is a nationwide German online and paper-based questionnaire administered between October 2021 and April 2022. Adolescents with IBD, aged 12 to 17 years, and parents of children aged 0 to 17 years with diagnosed IBD, were included. SAS was used for descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis was performed using R Studio (PBC; 2023.06.0 + 421). Results: 1158 participants (450 adolescents and 708 parents) were included in the study. A two-parent household could not be associated with mental illness as a comorbidity in pediatric IBD patients (p = 0.06) but was shown to decrease the risk of sadness (p < 0.001), helplessness (p < 0.01), feeling left alone and lonely (p < 0.05). A single-parent household increased the risk of sadness (p = 0.001), helplessness (p = 0.002), and loneliness (p = 0.006). Having one to two siblings was associated with a lower risk of mental health problems (p = 0.03) and reduced anxiety (p = 0.005). An association was also found between parents and children’s emotional coping skills. Conclusions: Further research on family structure and siblings in pediatric IBD is needed, given the potential impact on children’s psychological well-being. Full article

Background: The Standards for the Psychosocial Care of Children with Cancer and their Families provide a framework for the delivery of psychosocial care to families experiencing pediatric cancer. Similarly, the Pediatric Psychosocial Preventative Health Model (PPPHM) guides intervention approaches by identifying three tiers of psychosocial support based on a family’s level of risk. Employing both the Standards and the PPPHM, we developed a comprehensive three-tiered approach to support the psychosocial needs of families in a pediatric oncology setting. Methods: After publication of the Standards, our institution merged existing psychosocial disciplines into one unified Psychosocial Services department. The new department worked to clearly define the role and scope of each discipline’s practice to ensure the psychosocial needs of patients and families were being comprehensively met. Interprofessional workgroups were established to evaluate and enhance the psychosocial services offered to patients, siblings, and caregivers using a three-tiered model of support. Membership included representation from patients and parent/caregiver advisors to ensure their perspectives were included in program development. Results: Over ten new programs have been developed to enhance the support of families facing pediatric cancer. At the Universal tier, new programs available to all families include caregiver and sibling support groups, a caregiver podcast, and a relationship health toolkit and workshop. At the Targeted tier, psychosocial interventions and parent mentor supports were implemented. At the Clinical/Intervention tier, a partnership was developed with an external tele-mental health company to provide mental health services to caregivers with significant needs or preexisting mental health disorders. Conclusions: Given the complex needs of families facing pediatric cancer, use of an interdisciplinary approach is paramount to successful support throughout the treatment trajectory. By leveraging the expertise and strengths of diverse disciplines with the perspectives of patients and families, new psychosocial programs can comprehensively address the unique challenges of patients and families impacted by illness. Full article

Indoor fungal communities, found in household dust, significantly influence indoor air quality and health. These communities are shaped by environmental, socioeconomic, and household factors. However, studies on indoor mycobiomes, particularly in Croatia, remain limited. This study investigates the relationship between environmental and household factors and indoor fungal communities, focusing on their diversity, composition, and potential health impacts in Croatian households. Dust samples from 66 Croatian households were analyzed using fungal ITS sequencing. Statistical analyses, including alpha diversity measures, were conducted to evaluate the influence of variables such as pet ownership, number of siblings, and cleaning habits on fungal diversity and abundance. Dominant genera included Malassezia, Cladosporium, and the family Didymosphaeriaceae. Pet ownership and sibling presence were linked to higher fungal diversity, with outdoor-associated genera such as Aureobasidium being more abundant in these households. Cleaning practices selectively altered fungal communities, with frequent cleaning reducing diversity, but not eliminating resilient taxa like Malassezia. This study highlights the interplay between environmental, household, and socioeconomic factors in shaping indoor fungal communities. The findings underscore the importance of addressing indoor fungal diversity to improve air quality and health, particularly in households with vulnerable populations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Several gene targets were identified for psoriasis. Some are currently being explored as potential therapeutic targets, including CCL11. Our task was to prove a possible association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms +67 G/A and -426 T/C in the eotaxin gene (CCL11, 17q 21.3) with the development and clinical aspects of psoriasis as an immune-based dermatological disease and evaluate its relationship to potential comorbidities. Material and Methods: In total, 460 patients with psoriasis were included in the case–control and genotype–phenotype study together with 167 control persons of similar age and sex distributions without a personal and/or family history of chronic disease of the skin. Two eotaxin gene polymorphisms were detected from isolated DNA via standard PCR, restriction analysis methods, and horizontal electrophoresis. Results: No significant case–control differences in the frequency of the CCL11 genotype in both polymorphisms were observed. In polymorphism +67 G/A, a significant increase in the AA genotype in patients with psoriasis guttata compared to plaque psoriasis was found (p = 0.006). A significant association of the A allele in psoriatic patients with a personal history of allergy was found (p = 0.02). The A alle was also significantly associated with a family history of psoriasis (p = 0.00008). In men, a higher risk of a delayed start of psoriasis (later than 40 years) associated with the T allele of -426 T/C polymorphism (p = 0.0007) was found. When double genotypes of both polymorphisms were evaluated, we observed significant differences in double genotype distribution between men with and without a family history of allergy (Pdg = 0.0005) and between those with and without affected siblings (Pdg = 0.03). In women with psoriasis, a higher risk of the TT genotype of -426 T/C polymorphism in patients with a personal history of diabetes (p = 0.001) as well as in patients with both a personal history of cardiovascular disease and diabetes (p = 0.00005) was proved. When double genotypes of both polymorphisms were evaluated, the significance of double genotype difference between those with and without personal history of diabetes was very high (Pdg = 0.0002). Similarly, the significance of the double genotype difference between those with and without personal history of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes was very high (Pdg = 0.000001). Conclusions: CCL11 is considered one of the basic chemokines responsible for the origin and development of immune-based reactions. Based on our results, we suggest that the +67 G/A CCL11 polymorphism should be considered as a gene modulator of psoriasis in specific subgroups of patients. Full article

There is a long and complex history of Christian–Muslim engagement, one which is fraught by socio-political tensions and complicated by fear. Theological tensions likewise contribute to the sibling rivalry between these Abrahamic faiths. Accounting for fundamental theological differences between Islam and Christianity, and noting a potential dichotomy between apologetic-style and interfaith engagement, this article contends that effective Christian–Muslim relations must navigate both opposing truth claims and efforts to seek peace. Consequently, comparative theology is critically evaluated, from an evangelical Christian perspective, as a potential mediating approach. In considering the complex relationship between comparative theology and theology of religion, and indeed, between theology and ‘people of faith’, recommendations are formulated with a view to contributing to effective Christian–Muslim relations. The overall aim of this research therefore is to explore approaches to developing more effective Christian–Muslim relations, with a specific focus on comparative theology. While motivated by and accounting for a personal Christian–Muslim sibling relationship, the research method predominantly references academic literature, with sections structured by an amended version of Osmer’s four-task model of practical theology. Findings from this research discern that comparative theology is not quite the mediating approach sought; however, its potential contribution towards a ‘hybrid approach’ is explored. The implications of this article seek to encourage orthodox Muslims and evangelical Christians to engage in comparative exchanges that employ a balanced and in-depth approach to understanding our respective faiths. Finally, this article emerges from within the UK; therefore, discussions presented may be differently received by evangelical Christians operating out of divergent biographical contexts. Full article

The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Adverse Family Experiences (AFEs) frameworks have been employed extensively in research. However, to date, no such studies have considered both frameworks concurrently, nor have they explored the similarities and differences in resilience between siblings with ACE- and AFE-exposed parent(s). Doing so could, perhaps, establish the ways in which adversity is transmitted through generations and subsequently identify what trajectories to address in potential interventions. Thus, the objectives of this study were to examine the experiences of families with intergenerational ACE and AFE trauma, and to ascertain what influences similarities and differences in sibling resilience. The thematic analysis of two family case studies (n = 6) proposed a narrative encompassing fear, relationships and challenging trauma. Findings demonstrated the influence of neighbourhood violence which appeared to initiate this narrative. The fear associated with neighbourhood violence and maltreatment in early childhood appeared to influence both the parent–child bond and intimate relationships. Finally, participants demonstrated the protective properties of dissociation and sibling parentification, exhibiting their relationship with resilience. Investigators suggested neighbourhood violence be considered in the ACE questionnaire to inform current and future policies, and to safeguard the needs of families affected by intergenerational trauma. Full article

Increased life expectancy and reduced fertility mean more generations are living simultaneously but with fewer members. There is also a growing group of older people (aged 80 and over) who need care and support. This impacts mutual support within families and the care provided by public or private care organisations. Across OECD countries, on average, 60% of people aged 65 years and older in 2020 reported receiving support from family members, friends and people in their social network, living inside or outside their household but not care organisations. European research shows that when older persons do not have a partner (anymore), they rely on their adult children for care and support. Given that adult children frequently serve as primary providers of informal care, our study examines their perspectives and motivations to provide future care alongside the demands and expectations of their old parents. Our study adopts a multi-actor interview approach and simultaneously looks at the perspective of 40 adult children and one of their older aged parents (65 years or older). We apply the distributive justice theory to understand how children and parents assess the expectation and fairness of support. This paper contributes to the existing literature about support behaviour between parents and children, expanding insights about the fairness of support, expectations and willingness from a multi-actor approach. Through the lens of child–parent dyads, it is seen that the principles of the distributive justice theory can be perceived as not so strict, and within family relationships, one or more principles can coexist and have underlying mechanisms. This study shows the complexity and often ambivalence of family solidarity by adopting a multi-actor approach. One of the main findings is that contrasting dyads who reject the reciprocal act of support experience feelings of guilt or misunderstanding, resulting in stress and worry. A child may not follow the expected support pattern from the parent due to competing demands such as work or the prioritisation of young children, which can reduce the support given to the older parent. Besides general contrasts and similarities between child–parent support perspectives, the analysis looked into differences regarding gender and legal relationships. Our findings only found gendered care expectations. Future research should entangle this by looking into feelings of closeness, emotional connection and considering the dynamic character of filial support over time, especially between siblings. Full article

Adolescence is a phase characterized by reckless and risky behaviors, including the initiation and use of various illicit substances such as cannabis and alcohol. When ingested or administered, these substances affect mental processes by delivering pleasure, inner peace, and satisfaction. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of psychoactive substance (PAS) use among adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted, including 300 participants surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected using the Mediterranean School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (MedSPAD) to assess substance use, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose substance use disorders (SUDs), and the Early Trauma Inventory Self-Report Short Form (ETISR-SF) to identify childhood maltreatment, as well as socio-demographic characteristics. During the study period, 300 secondary school students participated. Their mean age was 17.92 ± 1.40 years, ranging from 15 to 22. There were slightly more males (56.7%) than females. A total of 40.67% of participants admitted to using at least one PAS at least once, while the prevalence of current use was 26%. Tobacco was the most commonly used substance (22.1%), followed by cannabis (7.33%). According to the DSM-5, 40.2% of users met the criteria for severe addiction. Factors associated with PAS use included the father’s level of education; place of use (e.g., home); poor relationships with parents, siblings, and teachers; and childhood maltreatment. Psychoactive substance use was found to be prevalent among adolescents in this study. Full article

Parental behavioral control is one of the most common parenting practices employed by parents in China. It is necessary to identify this practice and how it may be influenced by adolescents’ and parents’ sociodemographic factors in order to develop family intervention strategies. The present study examined whether fathers’ and mothers’ behavioral control was related to adolescents’ gender, age, and sibling status and parents’ age, education level, and income. A sample of 916 adolescents, aged 11–15 years, reported their fathers’ and mothers’ parental behavioral control. In terms of adolescents’ gender, boys perceived higher level of fathers’ behavioral control compared to girls. Regarding parents’ sociodemographic factors, the level of mothers’ behavioral control was higher compared to that of fathers. Mothers’ education levels were reported to have a negative relationship with maternal behavioral control. Regarding adolescents’ gender differences, there was a positive relationship between fathers’ educational levels and behavioral control in adolescent boys. However, there was a positive relationship between fathers’ monthly income and fathers’ behavioral control in adolescent girls rather than boys. In addition, there was a negative relationship between mothers’ age and behavioral control in adolescent girls but not in boys. These findings add to the literature on Chinese mothers’ and fathers’ parenting and offer practical implications for Chinese family interventions. Full article

Bitter Hawkesbury watermelon (BHW) Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. and Nakai (syn. Citrullus vulgaris Schad) contain high concentrations of cucurbitacin-E-glycoside (CEG), a compound that acts as an arrestant and feeding stimulant for diabroticine leaf beetles that are corn (maize) and cucurbit pests. Juice from BHW is used as feedstock to produce an insecticide synergist for improved chemical control of pests in cucurbit cropping systems. A positive linear relationship was observed between the CEG concentration of parent and offspring grown in open-pollinated field plots. However, subsequent experiments that explored the influence of parent and fruit maturity on CEG concentration did not confirm a relationship between accumulation patterns among offspring of half-sibling families. An effect of maturity was observed in that earlier harvested fruit had greater CEG concentrations than ripe or overripe fruit. In a field study, CIDETRAK L (active ingredient is BHW juice) was mixed with commonly used insecticides to enhance behavioral control of striped cucumber beetle Acalymma vittatum (F.) and squash vine borer Melittia cucurbitae (Harris). Equivalent control of A. vittatum and M. cucurbitae was observed on zucchini when treated with foliar applications of spinosad, acetamiprid, or lambda-cyhalothrin versus ground applications of the same products mixed with CIDETRAK L. Full article