Search Results (884)

Objective: Numerous studies have highlighted the prevalence of mental health disorders among healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic, with varying indications of emotional strain. This study compares the psychological functioning of healthcare workers at the onset of the pandemic and two years later, offering a comprehensive assessment of their emotional and mental health status in the evolving context of COVID-19. Methods: This longitudinal analysis examined the relationship between stress, emotional processing, and their positive/negative impacts on medical personnel working in Polish hospitals and outpatient clinics in 2020 (n = 285) and 2022 (n = 252). The study employed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 (TAS-20), Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Mini-COPE, Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS), Emotional Processing Scale (EPS), STAI, and PANAS to assess psychological responses and coping mechanisms. Results: Findings revealed a significant increase in denial, substance use, self-blame, negative mood, and impaired psychological and somatic functioning, alongside heightened symptoms of depression and anxiety. Conversely, a marked decrease in planning, positive reinterpretation, acceptance, religious coping, and seeking social support (both emotional and instrumental) was observed over the two-year period. Conclusion: The prolonged nature of the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected the psychological resilience of healthcare professionals, eroding critical emotional resources necessary for maintaining interpersonal relationships and mental well-being. These results underscore the need for targeted interventions to support the mental health of medical staff in the ongoing crisis. Full article

CYP3As are important drug-metabolizing enzymes in the liver. The causes for large inter-person variability in CYP3A expression/activity remain poorly understood. DNA methylation broadly regulates gene expression and the developmental transition from fetal CYP3A7 to adult CYP3A4, and CpG methylation upstream of the CYP3A4 promoter is associated with its expression. However, because non-promoter CYP3A regulatory regions remain largely uncharacterized, how DNA methylation influences CYP3A expression has yet to be fully explored. We recently identified a distal regulatory region (DRR) that controls the expression of CYP3A4, CYP3A5, and CYP3A7. Here, we investigated the relationship between CYP3A expression and the methylation status of 16 CpG sites within the DRR in 70 liver samples. We found significant associations between DRR methylation and the expression of CYP3A5 and CYP3A7 but not CYP3A4, indicating differential CYP3A regulation by the DRR. Also, we observed a dynamic reduction in DRR DNA methylation during the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells to hepatocytes, which correlated with increased CYP3A expression. We then evaluated the relative contribution of genetic variants, TFs, and DRR DNA methylation on CYP3A expression in liver samples. Our results reinforce the DRR as a CYP3A regulator and suggest that DNA methylation may impact CYP3A-mediated drug metabolism. Full article

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex psychiatric disorder characterized by an unstable sense of self and identity, emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and disturbed interpersonal relationships. This narrative review examines the interplay between dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, metabolic changes, and cardiovascular risk in BPD. Altered heart rate variability (HRV), reflecting the dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, is associated with some BPD core symptoms, such as emotional instability and impulsivity. Dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, often stemming from early trauma, contributes to chronic inflammation and elevated allostatic load, which further increases cardiovascular risk. Metabolic dysfunctions in BPD, such as elevated body mass index (BMI), high blood pressure, and inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), exacerbate these risks. Speckle-tracking echocardiography, particularly global longitudinal strain (GLS) and biomarkers such as homocysteine and epicardial fat, could be considered early predictors of cardiovascular events in individuals with BPD. Chronic stress, inflammation, and maladaptive stress responses further heighten cardiovascular vulnerability, potentially accelerating biological aging and cognitive decline. A literature search covering the period from 2014 to 2024 on PubMed identified 189 studies on this topic, of which 37 articles were deemed eligible for this review. These included cross-sectional, longitudinal, case–control, randomised controlled trials (RCTs), reviews, and meta-analysis designs, with sample sizes ranging from 14 to 5969 participants. The main limitations were that only one database was searched, the time of publications was limited, non-English manuscripts were excluded, and the quality of each paper was not commented on. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of recent evidence obtained on this topic, pointing out a direction for future research. Full article

This study aimed to validate the psychometric properties of the Conflict Resolution Styles Inventory (CRSI) within the context of the university population in Ecuador. The CRSI measures how individuals manage interpersonal conflicts, a critical skill for university students. A sample of 746 university students from various institutions across Ecuador participated in the study. The CRSI, which categorizes conflict resolution styles into five types (competing, avoiding, accommodating, collaborating, and compromising), was translated and culturally adapted for the Ecuadorian context. Psychometric analyses, including factor analysis and reliability testing, were conducted to assess the validity and reliability of the inventory. The factor analysis supported the five-factor structure of the CRSI, confirming that the inventory is suitable for measuring distinct conflict resolution styles in this population. The inventory showed good internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values exceeding 0.70 for all subscales. Additionally, the test–retest reliability indicated stability over time. The validated CRSI provides a robust instrument for understanding and improving conflict resolution skills among university students in Ecuador, contributing to better interpersonal relationships and academic environments. Full article

Background: The objective of this study was to analyze the impacts of a comprehensive physical exercise program with cognitive involvement during the school day on the executive functions and interpersonal skills of 5- and 6-year-old children. Methods: A total of 68 children participated in a 3-week pre–post intervention. Results: The results showed significant improvements in executive functions and interpersonal skills under the experimental conditions compared to the control group. These positive effects were observed to persist after a three-week follow-up. Conclusions: Therefore, the ActivaMotricidad program, which focuses on developing fundamental motor skills through cognitive, cooperative, and coordinative challenges, can serve as a useful and low-cost tool to achieve the objectives of comprehensive development and sustainability for children in early childhood education. Full article

Beliefs are information-processing structures formed along an individual’s developmental pathway. Beliefs can legitimize involvement in inappropriate or violent behaviors, particularly when they crystallize into cognitive schemas. While beliefs aid individuals in interpreting the surrounding world, overly rigid and inflexible beliefs can constrain the individual’s ability to process available information. This Systematic Review, carried out according to the PRISMA norms and guidelines, aims to understand the most prevalent beliefs regarding relationships among young adults and to examine their associations with violent or deviant behaviors. Articles included in this review were retrieved from the EBSCO, PubMed, and Web of Science databases in July 2022, resulting in a total of 594 studies, which were subsequently screened by two independent reviewers. A total of 51 studies were then selected for full reading, but 36 were excluded based on pre-defined eligibility criteria, leaving a final sample of 18 studies published between 2014 and 2022. The main objectives, country of origin, instruments used, sample composition and age, main results and conclusions were extracted from each study. Findings point toward the presence of related and legitimate beliefs about violence in intimate relationships, domestic violence, sexual violence, acceptance of the rape myth, or consent to engage in sexual activities. Full article

Background: The aim of the research is to explore the relationship between psychological factors and nutritional status in adolescence. The issue of adolescent nutrition is related to several psychological problems, as well as to developmental changes during this period. Research on body image dissatisfaction has confirmed that most adolescents are dissatisfied with their bodies. Developmentally oriented scientists are unique in their approach to explaining the problem of body image, focusing on multiple aspects and attempting to understand the intrapersonal and interpersonal factors that are important for the formation of body image. Methods: The sample included 260 adolescents aged 11 to 15. The assessment of sociodemographic factors, emotional states, physical activity levels, and eating habits was included in the questionnaires filled out by the parents (DASS-21 and the Physical Activity & Nutrition Behaviors Monitoring Form questionnaire). Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated based on information about the height and weight of the adolescents. Results: The results of the correlation between psychological characteristics and BMI indicate a negative low correlation with all psychological aspects: depression (r = −0.25; p < 0.05), anxiety (r = −0.30; p < 0.05), and stress (r = −0.28; p < 0.05). Over 70% of adolescents are classified in the category of normal BMI. Conclusions: The results indicate that subjects who are of normal weight experience less pronounced depression, anxiety, and stress. Full article

Students’ life satisfaction is an essential reflection of their well-being, particularly during challenging times. The COVID-19 pandemic, a global catastrophe, has had an immeasurably negative impact on individuals’ daily lives. It has also provided an opportunity to investigate the factors contributing to students’ life satisfaction during such difficult times. Considering the unique characteristics of these university students, the current study examines the impact of emotional intelligence (EI) on students’ life satisfaction, as well as the direct and sequential mediating effects of interpersonal competence and anxiety on this relationship. A total of 297 university students in Shanghai, China, participated in the study. All participants were recruited online during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022. Four well-established questionnaires were utilized to assess students’ trait emotional intelligence, interpersonal competence, anxiety, and life satisfaction. The findings indicate that interpersonal competence significantly mediates the relationship between EI and life satisfaction. Although anxiety does not significantly mediate this relationship, it plays a notable role in the sequential mediating effect involving interpersonal competence and anxiety. The study reveals that nurturing students’ EI can significantly enhance their interpersonal competence, which can reduce anxiety and ultimately increase their self-reported life satisfaction. Full article

Increasingly, adaptive processes and decentralization are vital aspects of watershed governance. Equitable and sustainable water governance requires an understanding that different societal members have unique relationships with the environment and varying levels of interaction with policymakers. However, the factors facilitating public involvement under centralized governance remain less understood. This study combined the Institutional Analysis and Development framework with ordered probit regression to empirically investigate the determinants of willingness to participate (WTP) and actual participation of the public in integrated watershed management (IWM). Data from 933 valid questionnaires collected across 36 counties in Fujian, China, were used to define stakeholders’ perceptions of IWM. Results show that stakeholders are predominantly willing to participate in watershed conservation, management, or planning (85.9%), while only 32.8% frequently attend related events. Pro-environmental intentions were mainly shaped by interactional capacity—information exposure, interpersonal exchanges, and cross-reach support recognition—while actual participation was influenced by perceived biophysical conditions, rules-in-use, socioeconomic factors, and interactional capacity. Frequent observations of poor forest management practices were correlated with higher behavioral intentions, and socioeconomic dynamics significantly affected self-reported actual participation. Information sharing had the most substantial positive impact on both WTP and actual participation. These findings reinforce the necessity for an integrated and holistic approach to regional watershed resource management that fosters inclusivity and sustainability. This study provides workable insights into the social and institutional factors that shape public participation in watershed governance as it evolves toward decentralization. Full article

In China, communities function as grassroots self-governing bodies, and the enhancement of public participation in community governance has remained a central focus of study. This paper applies the Large-Scale Group Decision-Making (LSGDM) method to the process of community self-governance and proposes a dual feedback group consensus decision-making model that takes into account the unique social relations among residents. Firstly, the concept of the Organizational Invisible Field—formed in communities by intangible social capital such as positional power and interpersonal relationships within the organization—is introduced. The definition of Invisible Field Force is utilized to measure the influence of these forms of capital on social relationships. Subsequently, drawing on field dynamic theory, the process by which residents’ preferences within the organization are shaped by the action of Invisible Field Force is explored. Secondly, acknowledging that invisible relationships can be affected by dynamic interactions during the decision-making process, the Invisible Field Force change model is constructed. Building on this, a dual feedback consensus coordination mechanism—encompassing both in-organization members and all residents—is designed. Finally, the validity and utility of the model are verified through case studies and sensitivity analyses. Full article

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) impacts not only diagnosed individuals, but also significantly affects the quality of life of both primary and secondary caregivers. These effects are particularly pronounced when compared to caregivers of individuals with other neurodevelopmental disorders. The emotional and physical demands of caring for someone with ASD can profoundly alter family dynamics and interpersonal relationships, creating challenges that require a comprehensive approach to be understood and addressed. Methods: The methodological design is a narrative review study, based on a search conducted during May, June, July, and August 2024 in the Scopus, Dialnet, and WoS databases concerning the object of study. As a result, a total of 197 articles were qualitatively analyzed. Of these, 36 articles were selected for a more detailed qualitative analysis, leading to a final sample of 14 documents. The selected studies were examined through qualitative content analysis. The inclusion criteria for this selection were as follows: empirical studies or research published in English or Spanish; open access via the Internet; categories limited to “education/educational research” relevant to the proposed objectives; and specific documents related to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Results: The care of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has a significant and multifaceted impact on family life, deeply affecting the mental health of caregivers. These effects manifest in the form of chronic stress, anxiety, and interpersonal difficulties, altering family dynamics. The quality of life of caregivers varies depending on the coping strategies they employ, which are crucial for their emotional well-being. Conclusions: Understanding and optimizing these strategies is essential to mitigate the negative effects of caregiving and improving the overall well-being of families living with ASD. Full article

This article explores the complex struggle for identity in the works of three prominent Moravia-born Prague German writers of the early twentieth century: Ernst Weiß, Hermann Ungar, and Ludwig Winder. It delves into the recurring motif of fear of intimacy and the paradoxical actions of their characters, who often view affection as a threat to their autonomy. Drawing on the psychoanalytic theories of Ronald Fairbairn and Harry Guntrip, the study examines how these authors depict this schizoid dilemma—the wish for interpersonal relationships, contrasting with the fear that love will lead to the destruction of the self. By analyzing selected works, the article identifies various coping mechanisms employed by the characters, such as emotional detachment, withdrawal into fantasies, and the creation of safe but ultimately hollow relationships. Through a comparative analysis, the paper reveals how these literary figures navigate their need for interpersonal connections while grappling with the terror of their own desires. Full article

Individuals develop interdependence through interactions. The process of physical coordination during face-to-face interactions facilitates relationship formation, emotional experiences, and emotional contagion. Workplaces inherently involve organic and continuous face-to-face interactions. Examining the interpersonal association between physical movement and emotional state among employees in the workplace is crucial for understanding an organization’s emotional dynamics. This study investigated the association between patterns of physical engagement during face-to-face interactions and depressive symptoms with those of interaction partners in a real-world workplace setting. The analysis utilized face-to-face interaction data from 449 employees across ten organizations, measured using wearable devices, along with a self-reported depression scale. The results showed that employees’ average physical engagement negatively correlated with the average depressive symptoms of their interaction partners, rather than their own. The association remained robust regardless of the number of relationships or workplace type. Furthermore, the depressive symptoms of individuals who had a significant influence on interpersonal relationships within organizations negatively correlated with their and their partner’s physical engagement. Our findings have important implications for the epidemiological understanding of organizational mental health in relation to face-to-face interactions among employees. Full article

Joseph Ratzinger points to the dialogical nature of the human being. Indeed, the human is by nature called to live in relationships, and for him/her social life is a natural environment of existence. This need, which humans discover within themselves, has its source in Communio Trinitatis, the profound communion of the three Divine Persons. In essence, God is not a loner but an eternal dialogue of love. As evidence of this, He created the human being in His image and likeness. The human’s role model lives in a relationship of love. Hence, the individual also discovers a deep need within him/herself for interpersonal communication. In this respect, it is healing for a person to live in a relationship. Firstly, because the dialogue of faith with God is true healing and salvation for the human being. Secondly, relationships with other humans also have an enriching impact on their personality. However, J. Ratzinger stresses that isolation alienates people and even leads to illness or death. Meanwhile, a living relationship with God and other people transforms the human person and ensures personal growth. Full article

Background: Attachment styles have been found to play a significant role in adjustment to cancer. Couples often cope with breast cancer through an interdependent approach to the disease rather than just acting as individuals, and a sense of coherence is an important factor that influences these relationships. This study examined how attachment styles and sense of coherence impact illness acceptance in couples facing breast cancer within a dyadic perspective. Methods: Data were analyzed from 145 women with recently diagnosed breast cancer and their 145 partners, who attended clinic appointments related to medical treatment. They completed self-report measures of attachment, sense of coherence, and illness acceptance. Results: Higher secure attachment and low insecure attachment scores were associated with a higher sense of coherence and better illness acceptance both in women and partners. Results of actor–partner interdependence mediation models indicated that most associations between attachment styles and illness acceptance were mediated by sense of coherence within both intrapersonal (actor–actor) and interpersonal (actor–partner) effects. Conclusions: The interdependence in attachment and sense of coherence brought noticeable benefits to couples’ illness acceptance when facing breast cancer. In line with the salutogenic model, these relationships predominantly depended on the mediational function of comprehensibility, manageability, and meaningfulness, which determined cognitive and emotional reactions that influenced both patients’ and spouses’ acceptance of the disease. Full article