Specific Stressors Research Articles

Parenting Stress of Challenged and Non-Challenged Children: A Comparative Perspective

This study examines parenting stress among parents of challenged and non-challenged children, focusing on dimensions i.e. financial, social, family, and emotional stress. Conducted in Hooghly; Paschim Medinipur; and Kolkata, West Bengal, India, the study involved 200 parents (100 of challenged children and 100 of non-challenged children) across diverse occupations using a survey-based cross-sectional design through conveniently. Findings reveal significant gender and occupational differences in stress levels. Fathers of non-challenged children report higher financial stress, while mothers of challenged children experience greater social stress. Occupational factors influence stress differently across groups; for instance, service professionals report higher family stress among parents of non-challenged children, while farmers of challenged children report the least social stress. Age-related analyses suggest that while financial stress decreases with parenting age in non-challenged groups, emotional and overall stress increase in parents of challenged children as they age. This comparison underscores the specific stressors unique to each parenting context, offering insights into potential areas for support and intervention. The study contributes to understanding how child developmental status, gender, occupation, and age intersect to shape parental stress, thereby informing tailored approaches for alleviating stress and promoting family well-being in varied caregiving contexts.

Transcriptomic analysis of cellular senescence induced by ectopic expression of ATF6α in human breast cancer cells.

The transcriptomic profile of cellular senescence is strongly associated with distinct cell types, the specific stressors triggering senescence, and temporal progression through senescence stages. This implies the potential necessity of conducting separate investigations for each cell type and a stressor inducing senescence. To elucidate the molecular mechanism that drives endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced cellular senescence in MCF-7 breast cancer cells, with a particular emphasis on the ATF6α branch of the unfolded protein response. We conducted transcriptomic analysis on MCF-7 cells by ectopic expression of ATF6α. Transcriptomic sequencing was conducted on MCF-7 cells at 6 and 9 hours post senescence induction through ATF6α ectopic expression. Comprehensive analyses encompassing enriched functional annotation, canonical pathway analysis, gene network analysis, upstream regulator analysis and gene set enrichment analysis were performed on Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) at 6 and 9 hours as well as time-related DEGs. Regulators and their targets identified from the upstream regulator analysis were validated through RNA interference, and their impact on cellular senescence was assessed by senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining. ATF6α ectopic expression resulted in the identification of 12 and 79 DEGs at 6 and 9 hours, respectively, employing criteria of a false discovery rate < 0.05 and a lower fold change (FC) cutoff |log2FC| > 1. Various analyses highlighted the involvement of the UPR and/or ER Stress Pathway. Upstream regulator analysis of 9 hour-DEGs identified six regulators and eleven target genes associated with processes related to cytostasis and 'cell viability and cell death of connective tissue cells.' Validation confirmed the significance of MAP2K1/2, GPAT4, and PDGF-BB among the regulators and DDIT3, PPP1R15A, and IL6 among the targets. Transcriptomic analyses and validation reveal the importance of the MAP2K1/2/GPAT4-DDIT3 pathway in driving cellular senescence following ATF6α ectopic expression in MCF-7 cells. This study contributes to our understanding of the initial molecular events underlying ER stress-induced cellular senescence in breast cancer cells, providing a foundation for exploring cell type- and stressor-specific responses in cellular senescence induction.

Ecological but Not Biological Traits of European Riverine Invertebrates Respond Consistently to Anthropogenic Impacts

ABSTRACTAimTo determine which riverine invertebrate traits respond consistently to anthropogenic impacts across multiple biogeographic regions.LocationEurope.Time Period1981–2021.Major Taxa StudiedRiverine invertebrates.MethodsWe compiled a database of riverine invertebrate community time series for 673 sites across six European countries spanning six freshwater ecoregions. We compared trait responses to anthropogenic impacts (quantified as changes in ‘ecological quality’) among regions for seven ‘ecological’ traits, which reflect habitat preferences, and nine ‘biological’ traits (e.g., morphology or life history), which represent taxon‐specific attributes that can influence ecosystem processes.ResultsFour ecological traits (current, microhabitat, salinity and trophic preferences) and one biological trait (dispersal mode) responded consistently across regions. These responses were primarily driven by spatial differences among poorer to better quality sites. Responses to temporal changes in quality were comparable but less pronounced.Main ConclusionsConsistent responses to anthropogenic impacts across multiple ecological traits indicate these traits may improve broader scale measurements, comparisons and predictions of community responses. However, we could not use ecological traits to identify the actions of specific stressors because multiple traits always responded as a group. Inconsistent responses across almost all biological traits indicated that these traits may be less predictive of impacts across regions. Predictions of how biological traits, and associated ecosystem processes, respond to anthropogenic impacts may be most effective at regional scales where responses are more consistent.

Interaction Between Heavy Metals Posed Chemical Stress and Essential Oil Production of Medicinal Plants.

Plants exposed to abiotic stressors show diverse physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses. Biosynthesis of plant secondary metabolites-including essential oils-is a vital plant defense mechanism. As these bioactive compounds are widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries, it is essential to understand how their production is affected in various environments. While interaction between specific abiotic stressors such as salt stress has been widely studied, relatively less information is available on how essential oil production is affected by toxic contaminants. Present review intends to give an insight into the possible interaction between chemical stress and essential oil production, with special regard to soil and air pollution. Available studies clearly demonstrate that heavy metal induced stress does affect quantity and quality of EOs produced, however, pattern seems ambiguous as nature of effect depends on the plant taxon and on the EO. Considering mechanisms, genetic studies clearly prove that exposure to heavy metals influences the expression of genes being responsible for EO synthesis.

Descriptive Study on Nature of Perceived Stress of Mothers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder - A Qualitative Analysis

This study examines the nature and impact of parental stress specifically among mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Parental stress is a significant concern in families raising children with ASD due to the unique challenges associated with the condition. The study aims to explore the factors contributing to maternal stress, including caregiving demands, social support, coping mechanisms, and personal resilience. Methodologically, in-depth interviews as the mono-method approach are employed, to measure stress levels with qualitative insights into mothers' experiences. Participants are recruited from diverse socio-economic backgrounds to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. Findings highlight the multifaceted nature of parental stress in this population, shedding light on the specific stressors and protective factors that influence maternal well-being. Implications for interventions and support services aimed at alleviating maternal stress and promoting family resilience are discussed based on the study's results.

Stress levels of science teachers when delivering distance education instruction in a state college during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically reshaped education worldwide, compelling institutions to rapidly adopt distance education models. Among those most affected are science educators, who face unique challenges in transitioning traditional classroom instruction to virtual platforms. Understanding the stressors experienced by science teachers during this shift is crucial not only for their well-being but also for the effectiveness of educational delivery. This study aims to investigate the stress levels and sources of stress experienced by science teachers at Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) during the shift to distance education. The specific objectives were to determine the overall stress levels, identify the least stressful pre-identified causes of stress, compare the significance of different categories of stressors, and develop an intervention program based on the findings. A descriptive comparative research design with a quantitative approach was used, involving a purposive sample of 45 science teachers. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, which included sections on demographic information, perceived stress levels, and specific stressors related to professional skills, technical skills, work-home conflict, and support systems. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA. The results indicated that science teachers experienced moderate to high levels of stress, with professional and technical skills being the most prominent stressors. Support systems, although somewhat helpful, still contributed to the overall stress levels. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to alleviate these stressors, such as professional development programs, enhanced support systems, and policies addressing work-home conflict. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of addressing the specific stressors identified to improve the well-being of science teachers and the effectiveness of distance education. Further research is recommended to develop and evaluate interventions aimed at reducing teacher stress, enhancing teaching effectiveness, and understanding the long-term impact of these interventions in digital environments.

Parenting and mental health in protracted refugee situations: A systematic review

BackgroundRefugees' parenting behaviour is profoundly influenced by their mental health, which is, in turn, influenced by their situation of displacement. Our research presents the first systematic review on parenting and mental health in protracted refugee situations, where 78% of all refugees reside. MethodsWe pre-registered our protocol and screened documents in 22 languages from 10 electronic databases, reports by 16 international humanitarian organisations and region-specific content from the top 100 websites for each of the 72 countries that ‘host’ protracted refugees. Our criteria were empirical papers reporting parenting and parental mental health data on refugees who are in a protracted refugee situation. Studies including only internally displaced or stateless persons were excluded. ResultsA total of 18,125 documents were screened and 30 studies were included. We identified a universal pathway linking macro-level stressors in protracted refugee situations, such as movement restrictions and documentation issues, to symptoms of depression and anxiety, which, in turn, led to negative parenting practices. Additionally, culture-specific pathways were observed in the way parental mental health and parenting were expressed. Situational (e.g., overcrowding) and relational factors (e.g., spousal dynamics) modulated both of these pathways. Biases in the research included the over-representation of specific protracted refugee situations, overreliance on self-reported data, and a heavy focus on mothers while neglecting fathers and other caregivers. Longitudinal research is needed to clarify the directionality and causality between specific macro-level stressors in a given protracted refugee situation and parental mental health and practices. Refugees were rarely consulted or involved in the design of research concerning their parenting and parental mental health. ConclusionIn recognising the existing links between protracted refugee situations, parental mental health, and parenting, our systematic review calls for a shift in thinking: from focusing solely on the micro aspects that affect ‘refugee parenting’ to understanding and tackling the broader macro-level stressors that drive them. We urge larger and long-term research efforts that consider diverse protracted refugee situations, greater investment in science communication and diplomacy with governments, and stronger implementation of durable solutions by states to alleviate the roots of refugee parents' distress and negative parenting practices.

Health-related quality of life assessment in health economic analyses involving type 2 diabetes.

Incorporating health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures into health economic analyses can help to provide evidence to inform decisions about how to improve patient outcomes in the most cost-effective manner. The aim of this narrative review was to assess which HRQoL instruments have been used in economic evaluations of type 2 diabetes management including in Indigenous communities. MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid) and Cochrane were searched from inception to June 2022. Studies included patients with type 2 diabetes; economic evaluations, derived scores from direct questioning of individuals; and were in English. Records were assessed for bias using the JBI critical appraisal tools. A total of 3737 records were identified, with 22 publications meeting the criteria for inclusion. Across those 22 articles, nine HRQoL instruments had been utilised. Generic tools were most frequently used to measure HRQoL, including EQ-5D (-3 L and -5 L) (n = 10, 38%); SF-12 (n = 5, 19%); and SF-36 (n = 4, 15%). Two tools addressing the specific stressors faced by people with type 2 diabetes were utilised: Problem Areas In Diabetes tool (n = 1, 4%) and Diabetes Distress Scale (n = 1, 4%). Two publications reported whether the study population included Indigenous peoples. A wide range of HRQoL instruments are used in economic evaluations of type 2 diabetes management, with the most frequent being varying forms of the EQ-5D. Few economic evaluations noted whether Indigenous peoples were featured in the study population. More research into HRQoL in people living with type 2 diabetes is urgently needed to improve evidence on effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of interventions.

Job stress matters: Understanding how job stress moderates the relationship between person-environment fit and innovative work behavior in the Thai food industry

This study investigates the impact of person-environment fit and job stress on innovative work behavior within Thailand's food industry. Through a comprehensive survey conducted among supervisors in the food industry, validated scales were utilized to measure person-environment fit, job stress, and innovative work behavior while controlling demographic variables. Employing hierarchical regression analysis and moderation analysis, the study examines the direct and moderating effects of person-environment fit and job stress on innovative work behavior. Results reveal a significant positive relationship between person-environment fit and innovative work behavior, with job stress moderating this relationship. Notably, specific points of interaction between job stress levels and person-environment fit are identified, shedding light on nuanced dynamics within the food industry. This research introduces a novel approach by integrating the Job Demands-Resources Model with person-environment fit theory to explore how specific stressors unique to the food industry can influence innovation. The study also pioneers the use of industry-specific measures for assessing job stress and innovation, which were developed and validated within this context. This research contributes to both theoretical and practical knowledge by enhancing our understanding of innovation mechanisms in the food industry and providing actionable insights for fostering creativity and innovation among employees. The study's originality lies not only in its emphasis on the context of the food industry but also in its development of tailored theoretical and methodological approaches to address the sector's unique challenges and opportunities.

Qualitative Analysis of Mental Health Stressors Among Pharmacy and Medical Students Between 2009 and 2020

ObjectiveThe primary objective of this study was to identify and compare stressors between pharmacy and medical students that may lead to poor mental health outcomes and decreased quality of professional medical care. MethodsWe used an inductive reflexive thematic analysis to interpret free-text responses from a stress and depression survey administered to pharmacy and medical students between 2009 and 2020 at a single public university. The inductive process involved several steps, including data familiarization, coding, and theme development. Two of the authors independently coded the data and presented their findings to the research team. After reaching a consensus, the data were recoded according to the new interpretation. Theme generation involved grouping codes into overarching ideas that provided a narrative. ResultsFive major themes emerged among both cohorts: constant overwhelming pressure, stressors of an interpersonal relationship, internal battle with oneself, financial burden, and postgraduation anxiety and uncertainty. Constant overwhelming pressure, stresses of an interpersonal relationship, and internal battle with oneself were the 3 most frequent themes identified. One notable stressor observed only among pharmacy students was having an internship during their training years. ConclusionAddressing the well-being of pharmacy and medical students early in training is crucial. Despite the different pharmacy and medical school curricula, it was evident that both cohorts faced similar stressors. This study identified specific stressors among pharmacy and medical students that can help health professional programs develop initiatives to support student well-being.

GROUNDWATER CONDITION AND VULNERABILITY IN THE ATHABASCA AND COLD LAKE OIL SANDS REGIONS: GAPS, OPPORTUNTIES AND CHALLENGES

Oil sands development in the Athabasca and Cold Lake oil sands regions of Alberta has raised concerns about potential impacts to groundwater and groundwater dependent ecosystems. This review summarizes the current state of understanding as to how oil sands mining and in situ activities can affect groundwater systems using a stressor-mechanism-response framework. Specific oil sands activities and practices are reviewed, and where possible, described in terms of how they can impact hydraulic head, the hydraulic properties of aquifers, recharge and transport of constituents of concern and linked to observed or potential impacts to groundwater quantity and quality. Groundwater is an important component of the water balance in boreal ecosystems, and specific vulnerabilities related to development are reviewed, including water use, landscape disturbance, groundwater withdrawals, tailings pond seepage, deep well disposal and thermal impacts. Knowledge gaps include lack of baseline data and monitoring of the quantity and quality of groundwater discharge to rivers, lakes and wetlands. One key monitoring challenge is attribution of hydrogeologic responses to specific oil sands stressors given the range of other natural and anthropogenic factors contributing to their variability. Quantitative groundwater exchange mapping, regional-scale isotope mass balance assessment, and broader incorporation of isotopic and geochemical tracers for fingerprinting water sources and incorporation of Indigenous Knowledge appear promising for improved effectiveness of monitoring.

Depressive and anxiety symptoms among university students during the later stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany - Results from the COVID 19 German Student Well-being Study (C19 GSWS).

Data on the mental health of university students in Germany during the later stages of the pandemic is still limited. This study aimed to determine (1) the prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms among university students 1.5 years after the first COVID-19 restrictions and (2) which factors were associated with these outcomes. The cross-sectional COVID-19 German Student Well-being Study (C19 GSWS) collected data of 6,996 students at five German universities. Associations between anxiety and depressive symptoms with sociodemographic and other factors were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression models. The mean age of the participants was 23.9 years (SD = 4.8), 67% were female and 31% male. The prevalence for depressive symptoms was 29 and 32% for anxiety. The lack of a trusted person and financial difficulties were associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms. Being worried that someone in one's personal network had become severely ill with COVID-19 and concern about (re)infection with COVID-19 were associated with anxiety symptoms. Those with pre-existing health conditions had an up to 1.98-times higher chance for reporting depressive symptoms (OR, 95% CI: 1.01-3.88) and an up to 2.27-times higher chance for anxiety symptoms, respectively (OR, 95% CI: 1.15-4.46). Concepts for prevention and counseling to tackle mental health problems in students are needed and programs should take specific stressors in times of crises into account.

Стресс и стратегии совладания у студенческой молодежи: обзор исследований

&lt;p&gt;Global socio-economic crises, new pandemics, climate disasters, and other large-scale factors create an unfavorable background for humanity, often involving painful processes that lead to significant changes in personality and the social situation of development. Students, as they navigate personal and professional development during their university education, determine their life prospects and societal roles for many years to come. A normative age crisis, combined with everyday and global stresses, can lead to adverse consequences such as high anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorders, other emotional and behavioral problems, and social maladjustment. The issue of coping strategies that help students effectively manage stress becomes increasingly relevant. The review included 75 full-text Russian and English papers, mainly from 2019&amp;ndash;2024, sourced from bibliographic databases such as Elibrary, Google Scholar, and PubMed. The analysis included articles where the participants were aged 17&amp;ndash;25, primarily students. The analysis of theoretical and empirical studies allowed us to systematize the types of students' stressors and the specifics of coping strategies. It is important to distinguish whether coping is a response to a specific stressor (situational coping) or if its use is related to an individual's personality traits (dispositional coping). Additionally, it is informative to consider socio-demographic characteristics such as the gender of participants, year, and field of education, which help to identify additional factors associated with the use of different coping strategies. The choice of effective or ineffective coping strategies is characterized by different relationships between stress, existing emotional problems (such as anxiety and depression), and mental toughness (adaptive resource). Thus, a scientifically based approach to effective coping strategies for students, with detailed consideration of perceived stress, mental toughness, the level of emotional problems, and demographic factors, can be considered the most relevant theoretical model.&lt;/p&gt;

Deskercise: the impact of 10 minutes of exercise on mental and physical wellbeing in the construction industry

The benefit of physical exercise on disease prevention and mental health has been well documented, with current evidence indicating that just 10 minutes of exercise completed daily can reduce mortality by 15%. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) there are few areas in public health - such as physical activity - where evidence on required action is so convincing, cost effective and practical. The concept of a desk-based exercise initiative (Deskercise) may be a solution to address the burden of ill health and create positive and healthy environments in the workplace. This paper examines the impact of the Deskercise initiative on both mental and physical wellbeing within the construction industry, where there is a need for targeted interventions to address specific work-related stressors. The research was a mixed methods approach using interviews and questionnaire data to analyse the benefits of participating in a daily Deskercise intervention. The results suggest that the role of the senior leadership team is critical to the success of this initiative. Consequently, Deskercise is a simple, time efficient, inclusive and effective wellbeing intervention; highlighting that physical health, mental health, alongside social wellbeing can all profit from a desk based initiative within the workplace.

Sensitivity of Alabama Freshwater Gastropod Species to Nickel Exposure.

Snails are effective bioindicators due to their prolific distribution, high level of endemism, and capacity to accumulate contaminants. Freshwater snails have unique ecological niches which are imperiled by land-use change and the introduction of hazardous chemicals. To assess how environmental alterations affect gastropods, lab-based studies are needed to characterize the toxicity of specific stressors. This can help guide policy decisions and remediation efforts. The aim of this research was to characterize acute toxicity of nickel (Ni) on endemic snails (Somatogyrus georgianus [Walker, 1904], Elimia cahawbensis [Lea, 1861], and Elimia spp.) and measure the accumulation of Ni and mineral elements including calcium (Ca), magnesium, potassium, and sodium (Na). Snails were exposed to six concentrations (25-800 µg/L) of Ni for 96 h. Among the studied snail species, E. cahawbensis was the most sensitive to Ni, with the lowest lethal concentration where 50% of the organisms died (LC50) at 88.88 µg/L Ni after 96 h. The LC50 at 96 h for S. georgianus was 167.78 µg/L Ni, and 393.13 μg/L Ni for Elimia spp. Except for Elimia spp., mortality of the other two snail species corresponded to the whole-body uptake of Ni. Nickel exposure also influenced Ca and Na uptake for Elimia spp. All three endemic species are potential candidate species for evaluating localized effects of human activities, and the present study provides a first step in characterizing how snails would be affected by environmental alterations. More research could further characterize potential effects of other human stressors on these endemic snail species. Future research into subindividual responses and routes of exposure can further elucidate variations in species sensitivity. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-11. © 2024 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.

Mental health challenges within the LGBTQ community: A societal imperative.

The LGBTQ community faces specific stressors rooted in societal discrimination, bias, and marginalization, impacting mental health significantly. Persistent discrimination, exclusion, and heteronormative expectations are identified as social determinants that contribute to heightened stress levels, resulting in increased rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidality. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has also severely affected the physical and mental health of a large percentage of the population, particularly impacting the health of marginalized individuals such as LGBT individuals. Studies consistently reveal alarming mental health disparities between LGBTQ individuals and their heterosexual counterparts, with elevated rates of mood disorders, substance abuse, and self-harm. Transgender individuals, in particular, face unique challenges, including high rates of gender dysphoria and discrimination-induced mental distress. The concept of intersectionality within the LGBTQ community emphasizes the compounded burden faced by individuals with multiple marginalized identities, necessitating tailored mental health strategies. The societal context, including legal and policy frameworks, plays a pivotal role in shaping the mental health and scope for LGBTQ individuals. Supportive frameworks, such as anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, and healthcare policies, contribute to societal acceptance and individual well-being. Additionally, efforts to destigmatize LGBTQ identities, comprehensive sex education, and public awareness campaigns challenging stereotypes are crucial for fostering a more inclusive societal mindset. Establishing robust support networks within the LGBTQ community, including initiatives providing mental health resources, counseling, community spaces, and allyship programs, is vital for community resilience. These efforts not only contribute to the well-being of individuals within the LGBTQ community but also work toward creating a more inclusive society. In conclusion, addressing mental health challenges within the LGBTQ community requires a multifaceted approach involving societal understanding, legal support, destigmatization efforts, and robust community resources. By acknowledging and comprehending the unique struggles faced by the LGBTQ community, society can collectively work toward building a more compassionate, supportive, and inclusive environment for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

A qualitative study of stressors faced by older stroke patients in a convalescent rehabilitation hospital.

This study aimed to explore the stressors experienced by older patients with stroke in convalescent rehabilitation wards in Japan. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four stroke patients aged > 65 years who experienced a stroke for the first time in their lives. The interviews were analyzed using the Steps for Coding and Theorization method for qualitative data analysis. The results of the qualitative analysis demonstrated that patients experienced specific stressors, such as, difficulty in movement of the paralyzed hand, fear of stroke recurrence, and dietary problems. Some stressors were manageable through healthcare professionals' active and sensitive communication strategies. These stressors were derived from the theoretical framework of "stressors related to hospitalization" and "stressors related to the illness". Additional stressors emerged from the interaction between these two types within the theoretical framework. The results of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the specific stressors experienced by older stroke patients during the recovery process.

The relationship between social environmental stressors and depressive symptoms among Chinese young adults: Above and beyond the effects of childhood trauma

Childhood trauma has been identified as an important etiological risk factor for depressive symptoms, but there are other modifiable social environmental factors that may be equally, if not more, important. This study aimed to improve our understanding of the social determinants of depressive symptoms among young people while taking childhood trauma into account. We analyzed survey data from a convenience sample of Chinese young adults aged between 18 to 24 (N = 205). Participants completed standardized assessments of childhood trauma (the Brief Betrayal Trauma Survey), depressive symptoms (the PHQ-9), and social environmental stressors (the Social Environmental Stress Questionnaire). Social environmental stressors had the strongest relationship with depressive symptoms (β = .416, p < .001), above and beyond the effects of childhood trauma. We also identified some specific modifiable and targetable social environmental stressors (e.g., school work and occupation issues, high expectations from others, sleep environment) that were positively correlated with depressive symptoms, even when the Bonferroni correction was applied. Although childhood trauma is a well-documented risk factor for mental health problems, there are modifiable factors associated with depressive symptoms, above and beyond the effects of childhood trauma. Educators, healthcare practitioners, social service providers, and policymakers can play a vital role in changing the trajectory of depression in the community.

Developing molecular classifiers to detect environmental stressors, smolt stages and morbidity in coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch

Aquatic species are increasingly confronted with environmental stressors because of climate change. Although molecular technologies have advanced our understanding of how organisms respond to stressors in laboratory settings, the ability to detect physiological responses to specific stressors under complex field conditions remains underdeveloped. This research applied multi-stressor challenge trials on coho salmon, employing the “Salmon Fit-Chips” genomic tool and a random forest-based classification model to develop classifiers predictive for chronic thermal and hypoxic stress, as well as salinity acclimation, smolt stage and morbidity status. The study also examined how smolts and de-smolts (smolts not having entered SW during the smolt window) responded transcriptionally to exposure to saltwater. Using RF classifiers optimized with 4 to 12 biomarkers, we identified transcriptional signatures that accurately predicted the presence of each stressor and physiological state, achieving prediction accuracy rates between 86.8 % and 100 %, regardless of other background stressors present. Stressor recovery time was established by placing fish back into non-stressor conditions after stress exposure, providing important context to stressor detections in field applications. Recovery from thermal and hypoxic stress requires about 3 and 2 days, respectively, with >3 days needed for re-acclimation to freshwater for seawater acclimated fish. The study also found non-additive (synergistic) effects of multiple stressors on mortality risk. Importantly, osmotic stress associated with de-smolts was the most important predictor of mortality. In saltwater, de-smolts exposed to salinity, high temperature, and hypoxia experienced a 9-fold increase in mortality compared to those only exposed to saltwater, suggesting a synergistic response to multiple stressors. These findings suggest that delays in hatchery releases to support release of larger fish need to be carefully scrutinized to ensure fish are not being released as de-smolts, which are highly susceptible to additional climate-induced stressors like rising temperatures and reduced dissolved oxygen levels in the marine environment.

Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Affect the Stress Levels among the Mothers of Premature Infants? A Narrative Review of the Present State of Knowledge, Prevention Strategies, and Future Directions.

Understanding COVID-19's effects on susceptible populations remains essential for clinical implementations. Our review aimed to examine whether the pandemic significantly impacted the stress levels in the mothers of premature infants in NICUs. The review of the literature from Google Scholar and PubMed resulted in identifying specific stressors such as the disruption of healthcare systems, limited access to neonatal care, uncertainty due to frequent changes in restrictions, the risk of COVID-19 infection, social isolation, and financial stress. While some quantitative studies concerning this topic did not show a significant increase in the perception of stress in this population compared to the pre-pandemic group, various research has indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic may result in enduring impacts on the emotional and neurological development of children. This article demonstrates a correlation between the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and an elevated incidence of depressive symptoms among the mothers of premature infants. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term impact of pandemic-induced stress.