Saved Queries

The greatest challenge of our era is achieving climate neutrality while strengthening adaptation and resilience to climate change. Addressing this requires an integrated approach that combines scientific, technological, and economic solutions with community engagement and public awareness. In this context, the European Commission’s New European Bauhaus (NEB) initiative serves as a bridge linking science and technology with art, culture, social inclusion, and civic participation. This paper investigates the regeneration of an urban area in Kozani, Greece, carried out in alignment with the principles of NEB. The project comprises the energy and esthetic renovation of three public buildings—two schools and a cultural center—together with the comprehensive revitalization of an adjacent park. The impact of these interventions is assessed through a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) defined within the NEB framework. These KPIs encompass technical, social, and economic dimensions, with a particular emphasis on the initiative’s three core values: Beautiful, Sustainable, and Together. The implementation represents one of the earliest practical applications of the NEB framework in Europe. Beyond the tangible outcomes, its significance lies in the systematic evaluation of both the interventions and the methodological tools employed, highlighting how the implementation process diverges from conventional urban regeneration approaches, how it operationalizes NEB principles, and how these principles contribute to results that are more effective. Finally, this comprehensive assessment provides a transferable model for monitoring, learning, and scaling similar initiatives in other urban contexts. Full article

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 7598 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Microbial Community Structure and Cultivation Performance Assessment in Tremella fuciformis Liquid Inoculum

by Hui Lin, Qi Xiong, Wenxuan Huang, Xinghua Dai, Yingxi Yang, Wenlin Huang, Shufang Lai, Shujing Sun and Liaoyuan Zhang

J. Fungi 2025, 11(12), 825; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11120825 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Liquid inoculum is widely adopted in the mushroom industry, yet preparing Tremella fuciformis liquid inoculum remains challenging due to its complex microbial community and dimorphic growth. This study aimed to establish a reliable protocol for T. fuciformis liquid inoculum and assess its practical application. Initially, liquefied spawn was produced by liquefying solid spawn. The application of standard liquefied spawn increased fruiting body yield by 8.2% (502.4 g/kg dry substrate) compared to solid spawn, but exhibited substantial batch-to-batch variation due to unstable microbial communities and low Tremellomycetes abundance. To address these limitations, liquid spawn was developed via pre-culture of pure T. fuciformis and Annulohypoxylon stygium mycelia. Cultivation tests demonstrated significantly enhanced performance with 608.2 g of fruiting bodies, which represented 11.1% improvement compared to solid spawn. Moreover, consistent yields could be observed across multiple batches. This stability was attributed to stable microbial community structure and the dominance of Tremellomycetes (abundance > 50%) in the fungal community. These results confirm the cultivation performance of T. fuciformis liquid spawn, highlighting its potential as an effective alternative to solid spawn for T. fuciformis industrial production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Edible Fungi)

18 pages, 505 KB

Open AccessArticle

Augmenting, Not Replacing: Clinicians’ Perspectives on AI Adoption in Healthcare

by Francesco Sensi, Francesca Lizzi, Andrea Chincarini, Chiara Binelli, Laura Sartori and Alessandra Retico

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(23), 12405; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152312405 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely expected to transform healthcare, yet its adoption in clinical practice remains limited. This paper examines the perspectives of Italian clinicians and medical physicists on the drivers of and barriers to AI use. Using an online survey of healthcare professionals across different domains, we find that efficiency gains—such as reducing repetitive tasks and accelerating diagnostics—are the strongest incentives for adoption. However, trust in AI systems, explainability, and the limited availability of AI tools are major obstacles. Respondents emphasized that AI should augment, not replace, medical expertise, calling for participatory development processes where clinicians are actively involved in the design and validation of decision support tools. At the organizational level, the adoption of AI tools is facilitated by innovation-oriented leadership and sufficient resources, while conservative management and economic constraints hinder implementation. The awareness of regulatory frameworks, including the EU AI Act, is moderate, and many clinicians express the need for targeted training to support safe integration. Our findings suggest that the successful adoption of AI in healthcare will depend on building trust through transparency, clarifying legal responsibilities, and fostering organizational cultures that support collaboration between humans and AI. The role of AI in medicine is therefore best understood as a complement to clinical judgment, rather than a replacement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence Applications in Healthcare and Precision Medicine, 2nd Edition)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1866 KB

Open AccessArticle

Administration of Single or Repeated Doses of CDCs in a Swine Model of Reperfused Myocardial Infarction: Magnetic Resonance and Proteomics Evaluation

by María Ángeles de Pedro, Claudia Báez-Díaz, Inmaculada Jorge, Fátima Vázquez-Lopez, Axiel Torrescusa-Bermejo, Beatriz Martinez-Fernandez, María Pulido, Esther López, Jesús Vázquez, Francisco M. Sánchez-Margallo and Veronica Crisostomo

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(23), 11294; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262311294 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Some studies report better outcomes in cell therapy for myocardial infarction (MI) with repeated administrations. We aimed to elucidate the potential differences in terms of cardiac function and protein expression after one or three doses of cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) in a porcine MI model. CDCs were isolated from swine cardiac explants, cultured in cardiomyocyte growth medium (CGM), and prepared for administration. Pigs surviving a 90 min balloon occlusion of the mid-left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) were randomly allocated to receive vehicle (CON), one (D1), or three (D3) doses of 30 × 10⁶ CDCs via the infarct-related coronary artery. Cardiac function was assessed with magnetic resonance at baseline and 10 weeks. Programmed electrical stimulation to study arrhythmogenicity was performed at 10 weeks. High-throughput quantitative proteomic analysis of infarcted tissue was performed to identify biological processes based on protein abundance changes between groups. No significant differences were found between the three groups for any cardiac function parameter at 10 weeks. No increase in ventricular tachycardia inducibility was seen in treated groups. However, gene ontology and topological analyses revealed potentially beneficial molecular adaptations. Upregulation of GYS1, AGL, and GBE1 indicated an increase in glycogen biosynthesis and energy availability, while an increase in ANK2, along with hub proteins ALB and TRAP1, suggested cardioprotective effects. Furthermore, the increase in remodeling-related proteins, including EPHA4, PODN, and ALPK3, pointed to favorable structural adaptation following infarction. In conclusion, the intracoronary administration of single or repeated doses of 30 × 10⁶ CDCs to a porcine reperfused MI model shows only slight differential improvement in both cardiac function and protein profile in this experimental setting, thus presenting limited translational potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellular and Molecular Progression of Cardiovascular Diseases)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 316 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Reception of the Yijing in the Context of Russian Orthodox Theology: A Dialectical Reconstruction of Alienation and Agreement

by Peiying Lv and Yuan Tao

Religions 2025, 16(12), 1480; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16121480 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

The Book of Changes (Yijing), as a foundational classic of Chinese thought, has been received within the framework of Russian Orthodox theology through a distinctive process of dialectical reconstruction, characterized by both alienation and agreement. This study examines how Russian scholars have translated and interpreted the Yijing, seeking to integrate its impersonal cosmological philosophy into a religious system centered on a personal God. It argues that the religious and philosophical orientations of Russian Yijing studies operate in a dialectical mode: on the one hand, translators employ strategies of alienation to recast the Yijing’s impersonal cosmology as moral or phenomenological notions; on the other hand, through strategies of agreement, they embed its core concepts within the Orthodox theological context, thereby endowing them with renewed universality and practical relevance. By combining textual analysis with philosophical interpretation, the research reveals how the Yijing has been reshaped in Russian cultural and religious contexts. It demonstrates that the transmission of non-Western classics in specific religious environments is not a one-way cultural export, but a dialogical process with local traditions that generates new intellectual forms, thereby offering a valuable case study for cross-cultural religious dialog. Full article

15 pages, 2218 KB

Open AccessArticle

Frequency-Dependent Amplification of Head Motion in Infant Rockers: A Segmental IMU-Based Signal Analysis

by Alina Głowińska and Sebastian Glowinski

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(23), 8301; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14238301 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: Passive rocking is commonly used to calm infants, yet its biomechanical impact on different body segments—particularly dynamic loading of the head and torso—remains insufficiently understood. (2) Methods: An infant doll was instrumented with IMUs placed on the head, abdomen, and gluteal region and subjected to controlled rocking in a standard infant rocker. Segmental responses were quantified using angular displacement, velocity, and acceleration, along with time–frequency analyses including wavelet transforms and inter-segmental transfer functions. (3) Results: The head showed the highest angular displacements and peak accelerations, predominantly in the sagittal plane, with pronounced oscillations in the 10–12 Hz range. The abdomen acted as a transitional damping zone, while the gluteal region remained largely static, serving as the mechanical input point. Frequency-domain results revealed upward amplification of motion energy, suggesting inertial and potentially resonant effects that intensify loads at the head. (4) Conclusions: Although base-level motion appears gentle, signal-level analysis reveals significant dynamic amplification toward the head. These findings underscore the importance of considering frequency-dependent transmission and segmental dynamics in infant rocker design, with implications for ergonomic safety, particularly in the early stages of development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Insights into the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Medicine)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2156 KB

Open AccessArticle

Meta-Topolin as an Aromatic Cytokinin for In Vitro Propagation of Thymus vulgaris L.

by Mologadi B. Mabotja, Adeyemi O. Aremu, Karel Doležal, Oziniel Ruzvidzo and Stephen O. Amoo

Plants 2025, 14(23), 3567; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14233567 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Effective in vitro propagation of medicinal and aromatic plants such as Thymus vulgaris is often limited by the choice of optimal cytokinin sources, which are critical for successful shoot proliferation and overall regeneration. Since their discovery, topolins have been recognized as alternatives to traditional cytokinins (CKs) such as benzyladenine (BA) and kinetin (Kin) in plant tissue culture (PTC). This study investigated the influence of three aromatic CKs (meta-topolin (mT), BA, and Kin), on shoot proliferation of thyme, with the goal of improving current PTC protocols. Of all the tested treatments, the highest shoot proliferation (7.25 ± 0.72 shoots per nodal explant) was observed in the treatment with 1 µM mT, superior to BA and Kin. Increasing mT and BA concentrations from 1 to 15 µM had an inverse effect on shoot production. The addition of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at concentrations ranging from 1.0 to 5.0 µM in combination with 0.5 and 1 µM mT did not increase the mean shoot numbers per explant. Regenerated shoots exhibited a strong propensity for root development even in the absence of plant growth regulators with 100% survival ex vitro. This study demonstrated that mT is an effective, sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional CKs for in vitro propagation of T. vulgaris, achieving an improved shoot proliferation with 1 μM mT application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Development and Morphogenesis)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 4643 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Algorithm-Driven Optimization of Mixed-Strain Fermentation for Improving the Physicochemical, Antioxidant, and Sensory Properties of Wampee (Clausena lansium (Lour.) Skeels) Juice

by Xianquan Zhong, Lin Zhang, Rong Liu, Hua Chen, Zhiheng Zhao, Xiaonuo Li, Kun Cai, Weimin Zhang, Xiaoping Hu and Xue Lin

Foods 2025, 14(23), 4001; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14234001 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

The potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) to enhance fruit juice is well known; however, the optimal fermentation strategy for wampee juice (WJ), considering its physicochemical and sensory characteristics and antioxidant activity, remains to be explored. For WJ fermentation, a co-culture of three LAB strains—Pediococcus pentosaceus SL05, Pediococcus acidilactici SL08, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum JYLP-002—was optimized using a combined approach of simple lattice mixture design and a genetic algorithm (GA). After 48 h of fermentation, the optimal mixed fermentation group demonstrated a comprehensive superiority over both the unfermented and single-strain fermentation groups. It exhibited significantly higher levels of viable bacterial counts, total organic acid content, total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant capacity, and an enriched profile of volatile flavor compounds. Moreover, comprehensive volatile profiling via HS-SPME-GC-MS and HS-GC-IMS identified 59 and 29 volatile components, respectively; β-phellandrene, α-terpineol, α-pinene, methyl acetate, (E)-3-hexen-1-ol, and 3-methyl-1-butanol, as well as butanal, (E)-3-hexenoic acid, β-pinene, and propyl butanoate, were considered as key aroma contributors in the fermented WJ (FWJ). This study provides a theoretical foundation and practical framework for the enhancement of WJ quality through mixed LAB fermentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Probiotic Fermentation: Advances in Research on Probiotic Properties and Fermentation Techniques)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 1073 KB

Open AccessArticle

Challenges and Responsibilities in Service-Based Sustainable Fashion Retail: Insights and Guidelines from a Qualitative Study

by Tommaso Elli

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10474; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310474 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Sustainable fashion retail is associated with supporting circular economy processes through the provision of services that extend the duration of products, their components, and their materials. Considerable attention has been paid to environmental concerns, whereas comparatively less emphasis has been placed on the cultural and social dimensions that retail may facilitate. The presented research contributes to the ongoing discourse related to service-based retail by formulating guidelines that consider environmental, cultural and social aspects of sustainability. To achieve this goal, a literature review was conducted to identify trends, existing models, and to extract components of service-based sustainable fashion retail. Subsequently, a focus group was organised with experts from the fashion retail sector to gather opinions on retail and its relationship with sustainability. A systematic mapping of service-based retail initiatives was employed within the focus group as a tool to stimulate experts’ expertise and encourage them to anticipate the challenges and responsibilities associated with a service-based fashion retail model. Results from the focus group and literature review are discussed and combined to formulate guidelines on credibility and engagement components. Five guidelines were identified: (1) aim at transparency, (2) adopt digitisation and technological solutions, (3) offer immersive experiences and community building in the store, (4) enhance human resources, and (5) pragmatically communicate sustainability efforts. This research, viewing the fashion and textile industries through the lens of the European market, provides companies, designers and policymakers with strategic insights to navigate the complex and evolving fields of fashion and textiles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Fashion and Textiles: Can Environmental Impact Assessments Inform a Circular Fashion Future?)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 331 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Culinary Tourism Pathways in the Baltic Sea Region: A Comparative Perspective

by Rita Lankauskienė, Vitalija Simonaitytė and Živilė Gedminaitė-Raudonė

Sustainability 2025, 17(23), 10472; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172310472 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study explores how sustainable culinary tourism fosters rural diversification and resilience in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR). Despite increasing recognition of gastronomy as a driver of sustainable tourism, comparative analyses across macro-regional contexts remain limited. The paper addresses this gap through a qualitative comparative analysis of twelve thematic culinary trails involving seventy-three small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) developed under the INTERREG Baltic Sea Region Programme’s BASCIL project. Drawing on documentary analysis, stakeholder consultations, and thematic coding, the research identifies six interconnected pathways: agritourism and farm-based experiences, rural gastronomic branding, culinary festivals, digitalization, sustainability and circular economy practices, and European Union (EU) policy support. Results reveal that culinary tourism strengthens local economies, reinforces cultural identity, and promotes transnational cooperation, while challenges persist in professionalization, digital adoption, and infrastructure. The study underscores the enabling role of EU frameworks in scaling innovation and embedding gastronomy within rural development strategies. It concludes that culinary tourism operates as a strategic lever for sustainable rural transformation, integrating economic, social, and environmental dimensions, and calls for further longitudinal research on its long-term socio-economic and policy impacts in the BSR and beyond. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

23 pages, 2166 KB

Open AccessReview

Dimethyl Fumarate vs. Monomethyl Fumarate: Unresolved Pharmacologic Issues

by Jana Kopincova and Iveta Bernatova

Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(12), 1506; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17121506 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) has established a significant position among therapies for multiple sclerosis and psoriasis and is now being investigated for repurposing to many other non-malignant diseases. Despite decades of preclinical research, some issues about its pharmacology remain unresolved, with ongoing debate over which of the methyl esters of fumarate, whether DMF or monomethyl fumarate (MMF), is the active ingredient. It is generally accepted that DMF undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis to MMF and methanol. However, there is disagreement regarding its exact site, its extent, and the responsible enzyme(s). The enzymatic mechanisms, particularly the roles of carboxylesterases-1 and 2, vary across tissues and species, complicating the translation of in vitro and in vivo preclinical findings into clinical practice. In addition, the impact of DMF and MMF is often not clearly distinguishable and sometimes overlaps, making the true molecular mediators of therapeutic and side effects unclear. Thus, the interpretation of some results obtained in studies is inconsistent because of interchanging of in vitro and in vivo observed features of fumarate esters: while DMF demonstrates rapid and strong effects in cell culture studies, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) function activation and glutathione depletion, these observations may not exactly reflect systemic pharmacology and physiology dominated by MMF. Moreover, methanol, the co-product of DMF metabolism, may contribute to the observed DMF effects through increased production of reactive oxygen species, which could result in activation of NRF2-dependent mechanisms. This review highlights specific unresolved issues in DMF metabolism, which are sometimes overlooked. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Advances in Chronic Diseases: Innovation and Drug Repurposing)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 311 KB

Open AccessArticle

Shortening Indwelling Catheterization After Vaginal Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Results from a Prospective Randomized Trial

by Tala Kordis, Ana Kofol and Mija Blaganje

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(23), 8295; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14238295 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition affecting women. When conservative treatment fails, surgical correction is indicated. Anterior colporrhaphy (AC) is a standard procedure for anterior vaginal wall prolapse repair. Postoperatively, an indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) is typically inserted to prevent urinary retention; however, prolonged catheterization is a known risk factor for urinary tract infection (UTI). This study aimed to evaluate whether postoperative catheterization can be safely shortened from 4 days to 24 h after vaginal POP surgery, and to compare the incidence of urinary retention and UTI between the two groups. Methods: A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted, including 119 patients scheduled for AC for POP repair. All patients received an IUC after surgery and were randomized to catheter removal after either 24 h (group 1) or 4 days (group 2). Urinary retention was defined as a postvoid residual volume > 200 mL after IUC removal. UTI was diagnosed based on typical symptoms and a positive urine culture (≥10⁵ CFU/mL). Results: Data from 80 patients were analyzed. There were no statistically significant differences in catheter reinsertion rates (15% in group 1 vs. 7.5% in group 2, p = 0.288). The incidence of urinary retention was not influenced by the use of Kelly sutures, concomitant procedures, or patient age. No UTIs were confirmed in either group. Median hospital stay was significantly shorter in group 1 (3 [2–4] days vs. 4 [4–4] days, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Short-term catheterization following anterior colporrhaphy is not associated with increased risk of urinary retention or infection. Reducing catheterization duration results in a shorter hospital stay, which may lower healthcare costs and improve patient throughput. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Clinical Advances in Urinary Incontinence)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2868 KB

Open AccessReview

Types and Diagnosis of Childhood Intellectual Disabilities: Advancing Accuracy for Better Outcomes

by Rasha Babiker, Manal M. Sami, Haifa K. Ahmed and Rasha A. Salama

Children 2025, 12(12), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121585 (registering DOI) - 22 Nov 2025

Abstract

Intellectual disability (ID)—termed intellectual developmental disorder in DSM-5-TR and disorders of intellectual development in ICD-11—is a heterogeneous spectrum of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impairments in general intellectual abilities and adaptive functioning, with onset during the developmental period. Precise and early recognition of ID can alter developmental trajectories by clarifying prognosis, guiding targeted genetic and medical investigations, initiating time-sensitive interventions, preventing diagnostic overshadowing, and informing educational planning and family counseling. This narrative review synthesizes contemporary diagnostic standards from DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, recent updates in epidemiology, and an aetiology-oriented framework for classifying “types” of intellectual disability. It further outlines current best practices in diagnostic work-up—including developmental surveillance and screening, standardized cognitive and adaptive assessments, genomic testing (microarray, exome/genome sequencing, and syndrome-specific assays), selective metabolic studies, and neuroimaging or EEG when indicated. Additionally, the review explores culturally responsive and equitable assessment, special diagnostic contexts (such as profound impairment, sensory and motor confounds, and bilingualism), and the frequent co-occurrence of other neurodevelopmental and medical disorders. The discussion concludes with practical, stepwise diagnostic pathways that clinicians can readily apply and anticipates emerging frontiers—such as genomic medicine and digital phenotyping—that promise to enhance diagnostic yield and clinical utility in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Neurology & Neurodevelopmental Disorders)

►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 831 KB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Childhood Fever: A Qualitative Study of Family Attitudes, Emotions, and Caregiving Practices

by Francisco Vicens-Blanes, Jesús Molina-Mula and Rosa Miró-Bonet

Children 2025, 12(12), 1584; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12121584 (registering DOI) - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Although childhood fever is a common and typically self-limiting clinical presentation, it imposes a substantial emotional and psychological burden on caregivers, especially mothers, primarily due to enduring practices and beliefs that diverge from contemporary evidence-based medical guidelines. Objective: The aim was to investigate how families perceive pediatric fever, identify the factors influencing their caregiving decisions, and examine their experiences across various healthcare settings. Methodology: A qualitative study employing an ethnomethodological approach was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Spain. The study included ten caregivers (nine mothers and one father) of children presenting with fever. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and field diary observations. Analysis was performed using a combination of inductive and deductive methods, supported by the Atlas.ti 25.0.1 version software. Results: Mothers perceive childhood fever as a disruptive event necessitating rapid decision-making, shaped by emotional responses, prior experiences, culturally transmitted knowledge, and social context. Common caregiving practices included routine administration of antipyretics, application of physical remedies, and early utilization of emergency healthcare services. The caregiver–healthcare professional relationship was characterized by ambivalence, highlighting the need for enhanced health education and greater emotional support for caregivers. Conclusions: Childhood fever represents both a clinical condition and a sociocultural phenomenon. Gaining insight into family practices and beliefs enables the development of more effective, empathetic educational interventions, which can enhance caregiving practices and mitigate parental anxiety. Reporting method: Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guidelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Global Pediatric Health)

11 pages, 404 KB

Open AccessArticle

Trauma, Emotional Neglect, and Developmental Vulnerability in Children: Evidence from Albania

by Anila Sulstarova, Blerta Bodinaku, Skerdi Zahaj, Gerda Sula and Greta Hysi

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1608; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121608 - 21 Nov 2025

Abstract

Background: Children in Albania and the wider Balkan region are often exposed to subtle yet persistent forms of emotional absence, parentification, and silencing. These relational harms are culturally normalized and rarely identified as neglect, but they create significant developmental vulnerabilities and increase the risk of exploitation, including trafficking. Methods: This qualitative study involved 30 participants, including 16 frontline professionals (psychologists, social workers, and legal staff) and 14 survivors of trafficking. Data were collected through semi-structured, trauma-informed interviews and focus groups between December 2024 and March 2025. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to identify emotional and relational patterns contributing to vulnerability, with attention to cultural contexts and gendered dynamics. Results: Three interrelated themes were identified: (1) emotional absence: children adapt to caregivers’ physical presence but emotional unavailability, leading to self-effacement and diminished entitlement to care; (2) parentification: children assume emotional caregiving roles, often regulating parents’ wellbeing; and (3) silencing: emotional expression becomes equated with shame or punishment, producing long-term relational invisibility. Conclusions: Early relational harms describe developmental conditions that may heighten susceptibility. Prevention and intervention should integrate attachment-based family assessments, early childhood screening, trauma-informed training for professionals, and culturally adapted approaches to break cycles of invisible harm and strengthen children’s emotional safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Trauma and Resilience in Children and Adolescents)

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Error

Oops... you haven't selected anything for export.

Displaying article 1-50 on page 1 of 1493.

Go to page 1 2 3 4 5

Search Results (74,624)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI