Search Results (231)

Background: The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced elderly functionality, particularly in terms of balance, gait, and independence in daily activities. This study sought to evaluate how these aspects have changed over the course of the health crisis. Methods: We employed the Tinetti scale for assessing balance and gait, and the Barthel Index for measuring functional independence, conducting a comparative analysis of scores before and after the onset of the pandemic in a sample of elderly individuals. Results: Our findings indicated an increase in Tinetti scores, suggesting some improvement in balance and mobility, albeit with marked variability across participants. On the other hand, Barthel scores showed a significant decline, pointing to a reduction in functional independence. Conclusions: These results suggest that the impact of COVID-19 on elderly functionality is not uniform, highlighting the need for personalized rehabilitation strategies. Such strategies should not only focus on physical recovery but also consider the psychological and social repercussions of the pandemic to fully address the diverse needs of this vulnerable population. Full article

The subsequent research has been grounded in the recently enacted education legislation, the Organic Law amending the Organic Law on Education (LOMLOE, by its acronym in Spanish), within the Spanish educational context. The development of this research is predicated on the following three objectives: firstly, the identification of the main issues of interest that have arisen in the network surrounding the LOMLOE; secondly, the analysis of the socio-educational repercussions that it has generated; and thirdly, the establishment of relationships between the different educational facts and elements involved. The objective of this study is to establish a frame of reference in terms of the current social perception of the new law and how it may or may not be based on the different changes that will occur after the implementation of the LOMLOE. In order to carry out this research, a qualitative methodology was used to collect a total of 1536 tweets during the debate on the law, using ATLAS.ti software, which was also used to carry out a content analysis of the data. Following a thorough inductive analysis, seven distinct codes were identified. These codes yielded a range of statements that collectively emphasised the pivotal role of subsidised education, religious education and special education in shaping the prevailing discourse. Full article

Background/Objectives: There is a high prevalence of anxiety and anxiety symptoms in older adults, which can have cognitive, emotional, and physical repercussions on older adults. It is important to understand the risk factors from psychological variables and sociodemographic variables that may be influencing anxiety symptoms to generate more effective interventions based on modifiable variables. In this context, the objective of this review was to identify psychological and sociodemographic variables as risk factors for anxiety and anxiety symptoms in older adults. Methods: The Scoping review followed the guidelines of the (PRISMA-ScR 2018). Five databases were used to reduce bias and identify relevant evidence: Medline via Ovid, PUBMED, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Results: A total of 2150 articles were identified across the five databases; 16 articles were included for data synthesis and methodological quality assessment. Conclusions: The variables that maintain the strongest association as both risk and protective factors are age, female sex, physical activity, physical health or medical conditions, depression, perceived and family support, and social and family participation. However, methodological limitations—including inconsistent definitions, diverse and often inadequate measurement tools, and lack of causal inference—restrict the generalizability of findings. These results underscore the need for validated age-appropriate instruments and more rigorous research designs in geriatric anxiety studies. Full article

Headache represents one of the most prevalent and disabling conditions in the pediatric population, with significant repercussions on mental and psychological well-being, as well as on academic achievement and social functioning, ultimately leading to a marked reduction in quality of life. Currently, the diagnosis of headache is based on the clinical criteria of the third edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3). However, the characteristics of headache may differ between adults and children, as well as the ability of children to provide a complete description of the pain and associated symptoms. The immature narrative skills of children can represent a limitation in defining the clinical phenotype of headache, making the diagnosis more complex. This is even more challenging when extracting information about the characteristics of the headache in children whose verbal expression is poorly developed or completely absent. Given these limitations, clinical psychology has long used drawing as an effective diagnostic instrument to bypass verbal communication barriers. This tool provides unique access to children’s psychological and emotional states, as a direct window into their inner world and as an expressive medium that often generates more detailed, accurate, and clinically actionable information, compared to verbal reports alone. For these reasons, drawing has been recognized as a valuable diagnostic tool for decades, with multiple studies demonstrating specificity and accuracy rates comparable to standard clinical assessments. Particularly for young children, drawings may give access to fundamental information that might otherwise remain inaccessible, thereby allowing both accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning. Multiple studies have highlighted and confirmed the graphic differences between representations of various types of headaches and the undeniable utility of an “artistic diagnosis” alongside the clinical one. Furthermore, the literature suggests and encourages the use of drawing in clinical practice, both in the diagnostic process and during subsequent follow-up, as an effective, enjoyable, easy-to-use, and low-cost resource. Accordingly, we propose a narrative review accompanied by a curated collection of drawings that may help identify and categorize specific correlations between graphic representations and clinical phenotypes, such as pain location, quality, intensity, association with nausea and vomiting, photophobia and phonophobia, and types of migraine aura. Our goal is to create a visual reference that can aid clinicians in the accurate interpretation of children’s drawings. Additionally, we aim to promote the integration of this method into routine clinical practice to improve diagnostic precision and support a more child-centered model of care. We also hope to propose new iconographic models to further enrich the diagnostic framework. Full article

Human trafficking, a grave violation of human rights, frequently intersects with financial crimes, notably identity theft and coercive debt accumulation. This creates complex challenges for victims, survivors, and law enforcement. Victims of human trafficking are often coerced and/or threatened into committing various forms of crime, referred to as “forced criminality.” In recent years, this trend of criminality has moved from violent crimes to financial crimes and fraud, including identity theft, synthetic identity fraud, and serving as money mules. This phenomenon, termed “forced fraud”, exacerbates the already severe trauma experienced by victims (referred to as both victims and survivors throughout, consistent with trauma-informed terminology) trapping them in a cycle of financial instability and legal complications. Traffickers often coerce their victims into opening credit lines, taking out loans, or committing fraud all in their own names, leading to ruined credit histories and insurmountable debt. These financial burdens make it extremely difficult for survivors to rebuild their lives post-trafficking. This paper explores the mechanisms of forced fraud, its impact on survivors, and the necessary legislative and financial interventions to support survivors. By examining first-hand accounts and social and policy efforts from a range of sources, this paper highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support systems that address both the immediate and long-term financial repercussions of human trafficking. Full article

This article examines the land-use politics of recreation development in rural China. Extending the lens of spatial informality, it analyzes how the appropriation and acquisition of space by small suburban leisure enterprises have constituted a de facto vehicle for rural spatial reconfiguration amidst land-use constraints. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and case studies, we illuminate emerging scenarios in which inbound businesses burgeoned through the production of informal spaces, which were subsequently formalized or tolerated by local governments geared towards social economic growth. More so, we reveal the potential and limitations of such an informal-to-formal approach for rural spatial reconfiguration by showing how its sustainability and survival depend upon the enterprises’ ability to enter into a tacit alliance of interests with local authorities. This article casts new light on emerging bottom-up processes of spatial reconfiguration, alongside its repercussions for local suburbs, in the development of rural tourism and suburban leisure. It further suggests that, as an analytical approach, a nuanced understanding of rural restructuring under the recent national rural revitalization strategy can benefit from moving beyond the sole emphasis on formal institutions to analyze the role played by ordinary market actors and their spatial practices that shape rural territories and spatial relationships. Full article

Introduction: Testicular cancer (TC) is diagnosed at a young age and carries a remarkably high cure rate. Hence, there is a sizeable population living in the survivorship phase. Many studies have highlighted the plight of TC survivors as a result of the late side-effects of the different therapeutic modalities used for the treatment of TC. This is the first study in Ireland to highlight the impact of TC on socio-economic health, sexual health, and fertility in survivors. Method: We performed a questionnaire-based survey, which was fully anonymised to encourage participation. Questionnaires were designed to measure the self-reported impact on social, sexual, and economic health on a five-point Likert scale (ranging from no effect to very significant effect), whereas any effect on fertility was investigated with questions regarding biological children before and after cancer with or without medical assistance. Results: A total of 83 TC survivors participated in the study. Almost half of our respondents revealed some effect on their performance at work and personal finances. Around one-third suffered an impact on career choice, job security, and their relationship with their partner. Regarding sexual health, the worst repercussions were noted on sex drive and body image perception, where close to half of the respondents reported at least some deterioration. Ejaculation and erectile function were affected in 30% of the participants. Of all participants, 17% reported issues with fertility, and the same proportion reported seeking medical help to conceive after diagnosis or treatment of TC. Conclusions: In conclusion, some TC survivors experience significant impact on their socio-economic and sexual health. Full article

Background: Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and fatigue are two impactful symptoms, frequently associated with sleep disorders, which can worsen the quality of life. Due to overlapping features and patient-report ambiguity a clear-cut distinction between EDS and fatigue can become a challenging issue. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and consequences of these two conditions in several sleep pathologies, examining their social, psychological, and dietary impact, with a focus on gender-related differences and occupational status. Methods: We prospectively recruited for an online survey 136 adult outpatients (60 females) affected by various sleep disorders and admitted to our Sleep Disorders Center in Parma, Italy. Patients were asked to complete the following tests: Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21, Hyperarousal Scale, the Addiction-like Eating Behaviors Scale, Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire, MEDI-Lite, and EQ-5D Health Questionnaire. Results:Fatigue was the primary daily symptom leading to serious repercussions on social/emotional and psychological well-being, while daytime sleepiness showed a less relevant role. Women reported higher levels of fatigue, sleep disturbances, emotional dysregulation, hyperarousal, and work productivity impairments. Unemployed people experienced a higher degree of fatigue, with multi-level negative consequences. Conclusions: We suggest sleep clinicians place a greater emphasis on the assessment of fatigue during clinical interviews, keeping in mind the greater vulnerability of females, experiencing disproportionate consequences. Further studies should expand our findings, exploring a wider range of gender identities and recruiting larger samples of patients. Full article

The goal of the study is to reveal the reasons (strategies) behind the use of “virtual masks” (fake profiles and altered identities) by real (human) users of social media networks (SMNs) within a cultural context, specifically in Armenia. Applying Erving Goffman’s Dramaturgical Theory and concepts of virtual identity, the research explores how users construct their online personas, either reflecting their real identities or modifying them to achieve specific communicative goals. A statistical analysis of the most popular SMNs in Armenia, combined with semi-structured interviews with 400 users, reveals diverse approaches to virtual communication. While SMNs facilitate news consumption, socializing, and professional networking, many users deliberately conceal personal information or engage in deceptive practices. Approximately 35% prefer anonymity when following others, and 24% of men and 11% of women admit to posting false information. Additionally, 26% of men and 12% of women alter their online appearance to enhance attractiveness. The study also highlights the role of anonymity in expressing controversial opinions, particularly in political discussions. Men are more inclined than women to create fake accounts and manipulate information to avoid social repercussions. Ultimately, the study highlights how “virtual masks” in Armenia reflect both cultural attitudes and broader global digital communication trends. Full article

Coastal lagoons at the global scale occupy an area equivalent to 13% of continental coastlines and play a crucial role in multiple biogeochemical processes and their productivity. In these ecosystems, management choices are often suboptimal, partly due to insufficient understanding of the role of lagoons in the social and economic well-being of the communities that depend on them. The multidisciplinary approach utilized in this study to assess the ecosystem services associated with the Orbetello Lagoon enabled the determination of the value this habitat holds concerning the functioning of anthropogenic activities adjacent to the lagoon. To this end, the ecosystem services provided by the Orbetello Lagoon were defined, described, and quantified in 3.8 Mil of euro. To ascertain the specific ecosystem services, it was necessary to quantify the Natural Capital and Natural Flows that regulate the lagoon, following a protocol for the collection and organization of existing knowledge about the area and identifying knowledge gaps. The density of the benefit flow, amounting to 50.000 €/year/m² closely depends on high cultural services and is influenced by regulating ones. Once the ecological and economic value of the Orbetello Lagoon was established, a bibliographic review was conducted to investigate the possible repercussions of major drivers related to climate change on ecosystem services. Full article

Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) lead to psychological and social repercussions for parents of affected children: the diagnosis, screenings, surgeries, and hospitalization, as well as ongoing difficulties bring with them stress, anxiety, fear, stigmatization, and isolation. Studies investigating parents’ direct perspective on these issues lack in the field literature. Our research aims to leverage parents’ narratives in order to explore how they describe their role as parents of a child with CHD and the impact of its social and clinical repercussions on their lives. We recruited 45 parents and analyzed their narratives through the MADIT approach, focusing on the discursive modalities and content cores employed. Parents describe and judge their role as ‘worried-protective’, ‘heroic’, ‘normal-untroubled’, and ‘unfortunate’, in a way that strongly characterizes the person, leaving limited possibilities for assuming different features. The clusters ‘state of ordeal’, ‘state of alert-overprotection’, and ‘personal identity changes’ are connoted as inevitable and established component of parents’ lives, while ‘limitation of life experiences’ is less monolithic and more open to change. Current narratives assume a totalizing form in the life of these parents, that can lead to stigma and exacerbate the already present difficulties and challenges, that need targeted psychological intervention by field professionals. Full article

With the escalating environmental issues, the imperatives to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and advance energy products through innovation, energy production, and consumption frequently result in environmental externalities. Conventional markets frequently struggle to address these external factors, resulting in market failures. Consumers are more aware of the environmental repercussions, regulatory mandates, and potential economic benefits of new energy vehicles (NEVs). Consequently, there has been a substantial surge in the demand for NEVs as alternatives to conventional vehicles. This study analyses the method by which innovative technology moves from the stage of purchase intention dissemination toward market adoption and explores strategies to expedite this process. Moreover, it examines how the intentions of customers to purchase ecologically friendly energy goods and their receptiveness to such products affect the expansion of the market. Further analysis indicates that the factors influencing consumers’ attitudes towards NEVs include the adoption of ecological innovation, awareness of environmental product knowledge, and perceived value of innovative, environmentally friendly energy products. The purpose of this study is to expand upon the existing literature on consumer demand, examining the influential factors that extend the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to enhance consumer intention through internal mechanisms. It explicitly focuses on these aspects, as well as perceived risk (PR) and perceived value (PV), to identify gaps in the literature and contribute to intentions to purchase NEVs in China. This study presents a thorough research framework for efficiently examining customer demand for comparable eco-friendly energy products. It investigates the potential influence of attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, and environmental perceptions, specifically those concerning environmental knowledge and concerns. Moreover, personal factors such as attitude, normative beliefs, and perceived control beliefs were found to impact consumer attitudes towards NEVs. The key factor influencing purchasing intention was the attitude towards NEVs. Simultaneously, subjective norms did not have a direct effect on purchase intentions. However, social influence played a significant role in the decision-making process, with perceived behavioural control and subjective norms exerting considerable influence. Full article

Avocado cultivation is displacing traditional coffee production in Veracruz, Mexico. This change modifies the floristic composition and agronomic management (AM), both of which are affected by socioeconomic factors and generate variation in edaphic conditions. The objective of this research was to identify the socioeconomic variables that modify the characteristics of the AM of avocado and coffee systems and have repercussions on the carbon and nitrogen pools. Four case studies were analyzed: a renovated coffee polyculture (SRC), severely cleaned coffee polyculture (IPC), avocado–coffee system (ACS), and conventional avocado orchard (CAO). A socioeconomic analysis was carried out with a 30-year economic projection and 56 variables. Three plots were installed where vegetal biomass carbon (VBC) was evaluated; soil samples were taken in theses plots at three depths (in triplicate) to determine soil organic carbon (SOC) and total soil nitrogen (TSN) in each case. A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed. Four economic variables explain 50.9% of the variation in agronomic management and five social variables 50.2%, in both cases where the component is considered. In all systems, the variation in VBC is explained by the agronomic management, while the reported SOC presents an inverse relationship with AM. The ACS presents the higher values in total C in the system, and SOC and TSN pools, while the CAO shows negative impacts concerning soil organic matter quality. The ACS is sensitive to investment, market diversity, education, and external organic residue addition, explaining the variations in AM and the TSN pools. Full article

Aging, as a phenomenon of profound social significance, has important repercussions. In this work, which focuses on Spain, aging and population structure indicators are analyzed. This basis for demographic analysis becomes useful later in preparing a sociological essay on the most pressing challenges facing Spanish society concerning population aging. The methodology used, as is usual within the framework of the social sciences, involves a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches. Specifically, from an eminently quantitative perspective, the important methodological shift of the 2021 Population and Housing Census is considered. It is also considered how the Statistics on Migrations and Changes of Residence emerge with the intention of measuring the migratory phenomenon between two consecutive censuses, as this phenomenon is also of great social significance in our country. The work culminates with a brief sociological interpretation of the challenges facing Spanish society as a consequence of the population dynamics studied. Full article

Objective: To explore recent findings on how nutritional, gastrointestinal, social, and epigenetic factors interact in autism spectrum disorder, highlighting their implications for clinical management and intervention strategies that could improve development and quality of life of affected children. Sources: Studies published from 2000 to 2024 in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Scielo, Lilacs, and Google Scholar databases were collected. The process for the review adhered to the Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, and Analysis framework. Summary of the findings: Children with autism spectrum disorder have restrictive eating habits and often exhibit food selectivity with either hyper- or hypo-sensory characteristics. This review provides an overview of the literature on diagnosis and intervention strategies for selectivity in autism spectrum disorder, including the involvement of family members in meals, sharing a healthy diet and positive relationship with food, and the importance of exploring visual, olfactory, and tactile experiences of food and introducing new foods through play activities to expand the food repertoire. Modifications in the microbiota and gastrointestinal disorders may also be present in autism spectrum disorder and are presented due to their frequent nutritional repercussions. The medium and long-term implications of food preferences and behavior issues for nutritional status are also discussed, given the tendency for children with autism spectrum disorder to consume low-quality and energy-dense foods, leading to nutritional problems. Conclusions: Children with autism spectrum disorder have feeding difficulties, especially selectivity, gastrointestinal problems, changes in the microbiota and can evolve with micronutrient deficiencies, malnutrition and obesity. This review describes the evidence for possible targets for interventions aiming to improve nutritional health for children with autism spectrum disorder. Full article