Dynamic Relationship Research Articles

Distinct gut microbiota signatures associated with progression of atherosclerosis in people living with HIV.

The relationship of microbiota composition dynamics and the progression of subclinical atherosclerosis in people with HIV (PWH) remains unknown. 96-week, prospective, longitudinal study in virologically-suppressed PWH. Carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) measurements and stool samples were obtained at baseline, 48-week and 96-week visits. cIMT progression was defined as an increase >10% and/or detection of new carotid plaque. To profile the gut microbiome, amplification and sequencing of 16S ribosomal-RNA (V3-V4 variable regions) were carried out following the Illumina protocol. Sequencing was performed with MiSeq platform. 191, 190 and 167 patients had available fecal samples for microbiome analysis at the baseline, 48- and 96-week visits, respectively. 87 (43%) participants showed atherosclerosis progression, and 54 (26.7%) presented new carotid plaque. No significant differences were observed in adjusted α-diversity indices between groups defined by cIMT progression. Beta-diversity determined through principal coordinate analysis distances showed that the groups exhibited distinct microbial profiles (PERMANOVA p-value = 0.03). Longitudinal analysis with ANCOM-BC2 adjusted for traditional cardiovascular risk factors, MSM and nadir CD4 count revealed that cIMT progression was consistently associated with Agathobacter and Ruminococcus_2, while non-progression was consistently associated with Prevotella_7. Progression of atherosclerosis in PWH might be associated with distinctive signatures in the gut microbiota.

An Autoethnography on Intergenerational Relationships and Transnational Care for Older Parents

I employ autoethnography to undertake a broader scholarly inquiry on intergenerational relationships and transnational care shaped by global migration and aging. Specifically, I reflect on the dynamics of my relationship with my mother, beginning with my departure from my home and spanning a period of 40 years, 8 in China and 34 outside China. In doing so, I contemplate theoretical models of intergenerational solidarity, ambivalence, and role ambiguity. I also challenge cultural assumptions of filial piety. The geographical distance, passage of time, and acculturation process have profoundly influenced my perception of filial piety, which differs markedly from my mother’s. However, this divergence in consensual solidarity—marked by variations in attitudes, beliefs, and values—does not translate into weakened affectual solidarity, characterized by positive sentiments and emotions. Furthermore, aided by advancements in transportation and social media technology, I have been able to extend crucial emotional and some “instrumental” care to my mother, along with financial support if needed, despite limited hands-on care. Nevertheless, I must negotiate my care for my mother and navigate a delicate balance in coordinating my care efforts with those of my non-migrant siblings.

Crosstalk between circadian clocks and pathogen niche.

Circadian rhythms are intrinsic 24-hour oscillations found in nearly all life forms. They orchestrate key physiological and behavioral processes, allowing anticipation and response to daily environmental changes. These rhythms manifest across entire organisms, in various organs, and through intricate molecular feedback loops that govern cellular oscillations. Recent studies describe circadian regulation of pathogens, including parasites, bacteria, viruses, and fungi, some of which have their own circadian rhythms while others are influenced by the rhythmic environment of hosts. Pathogens target specific tissues and organs within the host to optimize their replication. Diverse cellular compositions and the interplay among various cell types create unique microenvironments in different tissues, and distinctive organs have unique circadian biology. Hence, residing pathogens are exposed to cyclic conditions, which can profoundly impact host-pathogen interactions. This review explores the influence of circadian rhythms and mammalian tissue-specific interactions on the dynamics of pathogen-host relationships. Overall, this demonstrates the intricate interplay between the body's internal timekeeping system and its susceptibility to pathogens, which has implications for the future of infectious disease research and treatment.

The Verse Ayah "Affection and Mercy" and its Legal Effects on the Spouses

Objectives: The objective of this discussion is to highlight the importance of marital life as a foundational element in building strong families and cohesive societies. It aims to emphasize the roles of both spouses, with the woman providing passion and tenderness, and the man offering strength and security. Additionally, the discussion seeks to underscore the significance of love, understanding, and legislative systems within Islam in nurturing harmonious marital relationships. Methods: This discussion employs a qualitative approach, drawing upon Islamic teachings and principles to explore the dynamics of marital relationships. It relies on textual analysis and interpretation to elucidate the roles and responsibilities of spouses as outlined in Islamic doctrine. Results: The discussion reveals that Islam places great importance on fostering love, understanding, and mutual respect within marital relationships. It emphasizes the complementary roles of spouses in providing emotional support and security, which are essential for the stability and happiness of families. Islamic legislative systems are designed to promote harmony and prosperity within families, thereby contributing to the well-being of society as a whole. Conclusion: In conclusion, marital life is regarded as a cornerstone of family and societal stability in Islam. The affection and mercy between spouses are considered fundamental to achieving marital bliss and prosperity. By adhering to Islamic teachings and principles, couples can cultivate strong, resilient relationships based on love, understanding, and mutual respect. Ultimately, nurturing healthy marital relationships contributes to the formation of cohesive and thriving societies, reflecting the values of compassion, cooperation, and unity upheld by Islam.

Exploring the dynamics of physician-patient relationships: Factors affecting patient satisfaction and complaints.

This review identifes the factors influencing the relationship between physicians and patients that can lead to patients' dissatisfaction and medical complaints. Utilizing a systemic approach 92 studies were retrieved which included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed method studies. Through a thematic analysis of the literature, we identified three interrelated main themes that can influence the relationship between physicians and patients, patients' satisfaction, and the decision to file a medico-legal complaint. The main themes include patient and physician characteristics; the interpersonal relationship between physicians and patients; and the health care system and policies, with relevant subthemes. These themes are demonstrated in a descriptive model. The review suggests areas of focus for physicians who may wish to increase their awareness around the potential sources of relational problems with their patients. Identifying these issues may assist in improvements in the therapeutic relationship with patients, can reduce their medico-legal risk, and enhance the quality of their clinical practice. The findings can also be utilized to support andragogical principles for medical learners. The article can serve as a structured framework to identify potential problems and gaps to design and test effective interventions to mitigate these potential relational problems between physician-patient.

Power dynamics in business relationships in a turbulent environment: focus on anticipated power consequences and value creation

PurposeI aimed to develop a conceptual model of power dynamics focused on an anticipated power consequences in business relationships in a context of high environmental turbulence. I also intended to discuss the theoretical significance of my findings and indicate future research directions.Design/methodology/approachConceptual article indicating future research directions.FindingsThe proposal of the conceptual model of power dynamics focusing on anticipated power consequences in business relationships.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitations of the presented model stem from the critique of the holistic view. My contribution lies in advancing our understanding of power dynamics in business relationships amid significant environmental change. I elucidate how transformative practices relate to power outcomes and value creation in these relationships.Practical implicationsThe model highlights the importance of a mindful approach to managing business relationships in a turbulent environment. It emphasizes considering expected power outcomes from activities and their impact on creating value in these relationships.Social implicationsThe proposed concept resonates with systems theory, which emphasizes how different levels of business relationships are interconnected. It enables the analysis of power dynamics at the individual level, such as employees, consumers and local communities. These groups often include the most vulnerable individuals impacted by relational business structures.Originality/valueThe focus on anticipated power consequences of transformative practices triggered by high environmental turbulences, while considering the impact of power distribution of relationship actors on the sharing of benefits and costs.

Monthly hydraulic geometry relationship quantification with environmental LAI by utilizing sentinel data: A case in Jingjiang reach of the Yangtze River

This study presents a novel approach for quantifying the dynamics of monthly hydraulic geometry relationships in the Jingjiang reach of the Yangtze River by integrating leaf area index (LAI) data as an indicator of riparian vegetation. A comprehensive system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) couples traditional power-law hydraulic geometry equations with LAI, capturing the influence of erosion control on channel morphology. The periodic delayed response theory and automatic differentiation techniques are employed to enhance the modeling framework’s capabilities. Calibration and verification demonstrate the models’ effectiveness in capturing overall trends in discharge, width, and depth dynamics, outperforming traditional constant-parameter approaches. However, model predictive abilities are limited under extreme climate conditions due to training on normal climate data. Key assumptions, including the periodic delayed response theory’s neglect of peak discharges, simplified representation of artificial cut-offs, and reliance on remotely sensed data with limited local validation, introduce uncertainties. The proposed modeling framework shows potential for broader application to other river systems with appropriate adjustments. Future research could incorporate additional environmental factors, integrate models across scales, couple with advanced simulation techniques, and expand stability assessments beyond the riverbed index. By addressing related challenges, this integrated approach lays a foundation for enhancing understanding of river morphodynamics and channel stability.

An Orthodox Christian Bridging the Boundaries of Mavlana’s Thought

This essay delves into the phenomenon of the "unveiling of Sufis" and traces Yaman Dede's journey to becoming a dervish within the Mavlavī Order in the Republic of Turkey. The Mavlavī Order, a longstanding Islamic Sufi tradition dedicated to preserving the spiritual teachings of Mevlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn Rūmī and his successors for over seven centuries, faced challenges under Turkey’s secularization policies in 1925. This essay explores the extent to which the Mavlavī Order could practice its religious rituals within the secular framework of the Turkish Republic. Additionally, it examines the compelling appeal of the Mavlavī Order to seekers, worshippers, and intellectuals, a call that resonated deeply with Yaman Dede, a Christian Orthodox individual from Anatolia. Through biographical insights into Yaman Dede's identity quest amidst the backdrop of his conversion story, the essay sheds light on his inner turmoil caused by the clash of two faiths, ultimately leading to personal reconciliation as he embraced the path of a Mavlavī dervish. The latter part of the essay delves into the dynamics of the master-disciple relationship, with a focus on the interaction between Remzi Dede and Yaman Dede as a case study. Furthermore, it explores the enduring intellectual legacy of Yaman Dede and its impact on shaping the contemporary Sufi tradition in Turkey.

Reliability and Validity of the Indonesian Version of the Dual Filial Piety Scale

Filial piety (bakti) is a familiar concept within societies in the Chinese diaspora, including multicultural Indonesian society. This concept describes the relationship dynamics between parents and children. It includes obedience and affection that motivate a range of behaviours, including caring for elderly parents. Filial piety becomes an important construct to be studied in its relationship with the psychological process both in children and parents. A conceptual model commonly used to describe filial piety is the Dual Filial Piety Model, which has been operationalized in the Dual Filial Piety Scale (DFPS). This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of DFPS which have been translated into Bahasa Indonesia through forward and backward translation. Data was collected from 202 participants recruited using nonprobability sampling. The result suggests that the Indonesian version of DPFS shows adequate reliability and validity. The instrument was found to be consistent with its theoretical model. It can be used for further research on filial piety in Indonesian society.

Challenges of Nursing Students during Clinical Practice in Emergency Department: A Case Study

Background: Transitioning from theoretical studies to practical scenarios, particularly in the Emergency Department (ED), poses significant challenges for nursing students. These challenges include high time pressure, the complexity of cases, and the urgent nature of situations often encountered. The impact can lead to increased stress levels, a higher workload, and a potential lack of confidence in handling situations that require quick and accurate responses. This study investigated the initial adaptation process of these students, known as Ners, emphasising their environmental adjustment, interpersonal skill enhancement, professional development, and emotional coping strategies. Method: This qualitative study engaged 25 nursing students in ED rotations from November 2023 to March 2024. It utilised detailed interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis, employing thematic analysis to unearth key themes. Results: Four central themes emerged: acclimatisation to the clinical environment, dynamics of relationships and interactions, skills and competencies enhancement, and coping with emotional and psychological challenges. Initially challenged, students gradually became accustomed to the ED's demands, enhancing their professional and social skills and developing effective stress management strategies. Conclusion: The findings highlight the necessity for comprehensive preparation and ongoing support and suggest significant implications for improving nursing education and practices within the ED.

Grandparents as custodians of Arabic as a heritage language in the United Kingdom

The phenomenon of three-generation households is typical in many homes across the world, though perhaps less so in North America and Western Europe. When multigeneration families share the same physical space and take part in the same activities, the dynamics of parenting, eating, how time is spent and allocated, and relationships differ from families in which only parents and their children live together. One of the main (relevant) differences is that in these multilingual families there is easy access to the learning of heritage languages and socialisation into and through them. As the article will demonstrate shortly, such ease is also accompanied by relational and relationship challenges which bear on the heritage language learning process. The article describes the language transmission efforts of three Arabic-speaking families in the United Kingdom to teach and use Arabic with their children at home. Data was collected in the form of audio-recorded interactions, family background forms and parental interviews. Interview data was analysed thematically, and interactional data was analysed from the perspective of interactional sociolinguistics. The data reveals that, in addition to parents, grandparents uniquely enhance not only the learning of Arabic but also the experience of learning it. Children have a direct opportunity to learn Arabic and its various, often rare, dialects with help from their monolingual grandparents. Relationship dynamics between parents, their own parents, their parents-in-law, and their own children appear to shape and be shaped by the explicit and implicit language beliefs and practices of family members. Grandparents seem to also contribute to children’s emotional socialisation and their future beliefs of Arabic as an authentic means by which to express emotion. This is the first study to highlight the role grandparents play in the FLP of Arabic as a heritage language.

Identifying physical therapists’ attitudes, beliefs, and barriers toward diagnostic imaging referral: a mixed-methods study

ABSTRACT Objective Ten states, including the District of Columbia, have laws that currently permit physical therapists (PTs) to directly order diagnostic imaging (DI) in the United States. Military and civilian PTs order DI judiciously and appropriately demonstrating optimal patient outcomes and satisfaction when compared to other medical professionals. However, no studies have explored perceived attitudes, beliefs, and barriers to PT DI referral specific to North Dakota (ND). Therefore, the purpose of this mixed-methods study was to identify ND PTs’ attitudes, beliefs, and barriers toward DI referral. Methods A total of 147 participants completed an online survey with a subset of 17 participants agreeing to an interview. Frequency counts of demographic data and perceived barriers were completed. A binary logistic regression was run on demographic data. One-on-one interviews were conducted with a thematic coding process completed within a qualitative analysis. Results Seventy-four percent of PTs reported not currently referring for DI, although 71% felt that it would improve their patient outcomes. PTs with post-professional training (OR = 4.59), a doctorate degree (OR = 3.84), practicing in an orthopaedic or sports setting (OR = 3.55), and practicing within an urban setting of ND (OR = 3.01) were more likely to refer for DI. The main barriers identified in the survey included: (1) the logistics of performing a DI referral, (2) DI referrals only privileged to other medical providers, (3) provider/work relationship dynamics, (4) the cost of continuing education (CE), (5) and the inability to identify CE. One-on-one interviews further identified five main themes related to DI referral. Discussion/Conclusion Several barriers identified resulted in 74.1% of PTs not directly referring for DI, although certain characteristics (post-professional training, doctorate degree, orthopaedic/sports setting, practicing in an urban area in ND) were more likely to refer for DI. This study may help improve future adoption and implementation of DI referral in current and future states.

Establishing Genuine Human Connections Through Digital Entities

This academic inquiry systematically analyzes the cognitive processes that impact the perception of authenticity in human-virtual entity interactions, covering domains such as empathy, emotional involvement, social presence, anthropomorphism, as well as the influence of visual and auditory aesthetics. Drawing from a broad spectrum of recent research and foundational literature, the study explores how these elements fortify the trustworthiness of virtual agents across various fields including education, healthcare, entertainment, and customer service. The primary discoveries underscore the importance of emotional intelligence, encompassing empathy and the capacity to adjust reactions based on user emotions, as vital in heightening the perceived authenticity of virtual entities. Additionally, the analysis reveals that achieving a balanced integration of human-like qualities and functional capabilities, while avoiding the uncanny valley, is crucial in nurturing confidence and involvement. The paper also addresses ethical issues concerning the authenticity and potential manipulation of virtual entities, underscoring the need for robust ethical standards in this rapidly advancing area. The review identifies several gaps in the literature, like the necessity for more extensive research on the dynamics of human-virtual entity relationships and exploration into cross-cultural differences in authenticity perceptions. It recommends that forthcoming studies incorporate a variety of methodologies, including physiological gauges and longitudinal analyses, to enhance our comprehension of these interactions. The implications for the layout and execution of virtual entities are examined, emphasizing the necessity for developers to prioritize emotional intelligence and user-centered design to craft genuinely captivating virtual agents. The inquiry advocates for interdisciplinary cooperation to tackle the ethical dilemmas and ensure that progressions in virtual entity technologies enhance human encounters and engagements.

The Relationships Between Gratitude and Resilience among Nigerian Married Couples

This study investigates the complex connections between resilience and gratitude in Nigerian married couples. Robust literature establishes gratitude as a basic human virtue that contributes to a "good life," while resilience is interpreted as a person's ability to adjust to the difficulties they face in life. With 304 married participants, the study uses a quantitative methodology to measure resilience and gratitude using standardised questionnaires. The hypothesis that there is no association between the gratitude and resilience is rejected by the results, which show a strong positive association between resilience and gratitude (r=0.329). Furthermore, the outcomes of the t-test show a significant difference in means, confirming the effect of gratitude on resilience among married Nigerian couples. It's interesting to note that being grateful has additional benefits, such as improving everyday happiness and flexibility. These results add to the body of literature by highlighting the critical role that gratitude plays in marriages, impacting resilience and the overall quality of the partnership. The study emphasises how gratitude has a good energy and can strengthen close relationships with others. Subsequent investigations may explore more thoroughly the mechanisms by which gratitude enhances relationship dynamics, providing valuable perspectives for therapeutic therapies and relationship-building initiatives. All things considered, this study has important ramifications for strengthening resilience and gratitude among married couples in Nigeria. 

Genetic and subjective sensitivity, relationship dynamics, and psychological distress in couples.

Positive and negative aspects of intimate relationships influence mental health and well-being in couples. According to the environmental sensitivity framework, individuals differ in how strongly they are affected by their environment, with some individuals being more or less sensitive to both negative and positive experiences. The present study examined the longitudinal associations between positive and negative relationship dynamics, including marital satisfaction, positive bonding, and negative communication, and psychological distress as well as the extent to which individual differences in genetic and subjective measures of environmental sensitivity moderated the association between relationship dynamics and psychological distress in a sample of couples in the U.S. Army (n = 238 individuals representing 152 unique couples). Sensitivity was measured by self-report and a polygenic score derived from previous genome-wide association study results. Separate three-level multilevel models were conducted for each relationship dynamic and sensitivity variable. Only for subjective (i.e., self-reported) sensitivity did significant cross-level interactions emerge in predicting psychological distress, whereas no such interactions were found for genetic (i.e., polygenic score) sensitivity. Specifically, lower marital satisfaction and positive bonding were associated with higher psychological distress among subjectively highly sensitive individuals, and higher negative communication was associated with higher psychological distress among subjectively highly sensitive individuals. Findings suggest that both low positive and high negative relationship dynamics may have a greater effect on psychological distress among highly sensitive individuals, which may help to inform tailored intervention to meet the unique needs of couples. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Supplemental Material for Genetic and Subjective Sensitivity, Relationship Dynamics, and Psychological Distress in Couples

Supplemental Material for Genetic and Subjective Sensitivity, Relationship Dynamics, and Psychological Distress in Couples

The Paradox of Choice in Palliative Care Decision-Making in Managed Long-Term Care: A Qualitative Study

Palliative care offers undeniable advantages to elderly patients with multiple chronic illnesses in managed long-term care. However, only approximately 14% of those who require palliative care actually receive it. To investigate factors influencing decision-making regarding palliative care acceptance, and healthcare providers’ communication strategies, which patients or family caregivers perceive during managed long-term care. Qualitative thematic content analysis study. Two data sources from home and community-based health care organization in a metropolitical city in the Northeastern United States were used: (a) retrospectively collected 79 phone call audio recordings between patients and/or family caregivers with healthcare providers when initiate palliative care option, and (b) prospectively collected 10 exploratory qualitative interviews with patients and/or family caregivers for this study purpose. From a total of 89 conversations, 7 themes emerged during palliative care decision-making: (a) capability for self-management; (b) symptom severity; (c) perceptions of chronic disease; (d) satisfaction with current health services; (e) code status; (f) caregiver burden and (g) other reasons, including financial considerations and service affiliations. In addition, from 10 qualitative interviews, 4 key themes in healthcare providers’ communication that optimize palliative care conversations were indicated: (i) trust and relationship dynamics; (ii) positive reinforcement and personal connection; (iii) conversation setting and initiator; and (iv) collaborative approach to care coordination. Enhancing decision-making around palliative care and improving acceptance of palliative care services may be improved through the integration of personalized care plans, empathetic communication, use of symptom-inclusive assessments for timely care, and proactively addressing caregiver burden.

Insights into the Impact of Organizational Factors and Burnout on the Employees of a For-Profit Psychiatric Hospital during the Third Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

In this paper, we provide insights into the interplay among the organizational, job, and attitudinal factors and employees' intentions to resign during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic at a mental health hospital. We point out shortcomings in the relationship dynamics between executive administration and operational staff and propose a pathway to develop more effective leadership frameworks to increase job satisfaction. We integrate qualitative data from case information and open-ended questions posed to employees at a mental health hospital and quantitative data from a small-scale survey (n = 19). We highlight that the ability to achieve objectives, work autonomy, burnout, affective commitment, distributive and procedural justice, and job satisfaction are critical in determining individuals' intentions to resign. Individuals identified disconnectedness and moral distress as critical aspects, while highlighting empathy, compassion, satisfaction, and confidence as pivotal elements. Mental healthcare settings could benefit from enhancing the staff's ability to achieve objectives, work autonomy, affective commitment, and both distributive and procedural justice. Addressing burnout and implementing measures to increase job satisfaction are equally vital. Efficiently restructuring dynamics between various leadership levels and staff can significantly improve employee retention.

Interfaith Marriage in Judaism and Christianity: Jewish-Christian Matrimonial Unions

Interfaith marriage between individuals of Jewish and Christian faiths presents unique challenges and opportunities for religious coexistence and shared values. This study examines Jewish-Christian matrimonial unions, exploring the complexities and dynamics of such relationships. By analyzing the historical, theological, and social aspects of Judaism and Christianity, this study sheds light on the varying perspectives, traditions, and concerns surrounding interfaith marriages within these faith communities. Additionally, it investigates the impact of interfaith unions on religious identity, family dynamics, and the upbringing of children. By delving into the experiences and narratives of individuals in Jewish-Christian marriages, this study provides insights into the negotiation of religious differences, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the potential for mutual understanding and respect in interfaith relationships.

Perceived Effects of Tango Argentino on Couple Relationship Functioning in Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and Their Partners: Findings from a Qualitative Study

This research focuses on the impact of Tango Argentino (TA) on the dynamics of relationships in couples who are dealing with Parkinson’s disease (PD). In particular, it investigates Neuro Tango Argentino Training as an intervention to explore its effects on participants and the potential benefits for the well-being and relationship dynamics of couples dealing with PD. By conducting semi-structured interviews with 13 individuals with PD and their partners, six main themes emerged. These themes include relationship quality and body awareness. The participants reported increased sensitivity and non-verbal communication within couples following the TA intervention. Additionally, the study demonstrated the adaptability of this intervention through the development of a 10-week TA program tailored for individuals with impairments. These findings suggest that TA can promote shared body awareness, facilitate meaningful experiences and encourage interaction among couples managing PD. In conclusion, this research indicates that TA holds promise as an intervention to enhance shared body awareness in couples affected by PD; however, further investigation is warranted to validate these findings.