-
Trauma, Violence & Abuse Jul 2024Youth are at elevated risk of becoming victims of sexual exploitation, which has a detrimental impact on their physical and psychological well-being. Understanding... (Review)
Review
Youth are at elevated risk of becoming victims of sexual exploitation, which has a detrimental impact on their physical and psychological well-being. Understanding factors associated with sexual exploitation is key for prevention efforts and adequate and timely treatment. This systematic review sheds more light on this by providing an overview of both risk and protective factors for sexual exploitation in male and female youth from a cross-cultural perspective. In all, 65 studies were selected meeting the inclusion criteria: qualitative or quantitative peer-reviewed studies in English, Dutch, or German with findings on risk and protective factors associated with sexual exploitation in youth aged up to 24 years. Results show that there are common risk factors in male and female youth worldwide (e.g., adverse childhood experiences, lack of a social network, substance use, and running away). Positive and supportive relationships are an important protective factor in mitigating the risk of sexual exploitation. Geographic differences were found. In non-Western continents, more environmental factors (e.g., economic vulnerabilities, residential instability) were cited. Research in countries outside the United States is limited and protective factors and males are underexamined. To fully understand vulnerabilities in youth, their interactions, and possible gender differences and to address the needs of diverse populations, more insight should be gained into the broader range of risk and protective factors worldwide. This systematic review has made a valuable contribution to this by providing practice, policy, and research guidance in the establishment of more targeted prevention efforts, adequate treatment, and areas to address in future research.
Topics: Humans; Female; Male; Adolescent; Cross-Cultural Comparison; Risk Factors; Protective Factors; Young Adult; Child; Crime Victims
PubMed: 37818954
DOI: 10.1177/15248380231201815 -
Cells Oct 2023Sulfur mustard (SM) and its derivatives are potent genotoxic agents, which have been shown to trigger the activation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) and the...
Sulfur mustard (SM) and its derivatives are potent genotoxic agents, which have been shown to trigger the activation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) and the depletion of their substrate, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). NAD is an essential molecule involved in numerous cellular pathways, including genome integrity and DNA repair, and thus, NAD supplementation might be beneficial for mitigating mustard-induced (geno)toxicity. In this study, the role of NAD depletion and elevation in the genotoxic stress response to SM derivatives, i.e., the monofunctional agent 2-chloroethyl-ethyl sulfide (CEES) and the crosslinking agent mechlorethamine (HN2), was investigated with the use of NAD booster nicotinamide riboside (NR) and NAD synthesis inhibitor FK866. The effects were analyzed in immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT) or monocyte-like cell line THP-1. In HaCaT cells, NR supplementation, increased NAD levels, and elevated PAR response, however, did not affect ATP levels or DNA damage repair, nor did it attenuate long- and short-term cytotoxicities. On the other hand, the depletion of cellular NAD via FK866 sensitized HaCaT cells to genotoxic stress, particularly CEES exposure, whereas NR supplementation, by increasing cellular NAD levels, rescued the sensitizing FK866 effect. Intriguingly, in THP-1 cells, the NR-induced elevation of cellular NAD levels did attenuate toxicity of the mustard compounds, especially upon CEES exposure. Together, our results reveal that NAD is an important molecule in the pathomechanism of SM derivatives, exhibiting compound-specificity. Moreover, the cell line-dependent protective effects of NR are indicative of system-specificity of the application of this NAD booster.
Topics: Humans; Alkylating Agents; NAD; Protective Factors; Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerases; DNA
PubMed: 37830610
DOI: 10.3390/cells12192396 -
Cultural Diversity & Ethnic Minority... Oct 2022Indigenous knowledge and practices promote American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN; Native) communities' health and well-being. Historical losses and continued oppression... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
Indigenous knowledge and practices promote American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN; Native) communities' health and well-being. Historical losses and continued oppression have resulted in disproportionately higher AI/AN youth suicide rates. This article describes the development of a new national resource guide titled "CULTURE FORWARD" for tribal leaders and stakeholders to support youth suicide prevention efforts through cultural strengths.
METHOD
The CULTURE FORWARD guide was developed over 6 months through a community-engaged process. We conducted nine roundtables and eight interviews with a wide variety of community members, leaders, and providers representing 36 diverse tribal communities and geographic regions. Participants discussed AI/AN youth risk and protective factors, successful community efforts to prevent suicide, and content and dissemination ideas. A comprehensive literature review complemented qualitative findings. A diverse and representative National Advisory Editorial Board guided content and design throughout development.
RESULTS
Qualitative data were analyzed iteratively and thematically. Across all listening sessions, culture was identified as a key protective factor against AI/AN youth suicide. Five themes related to cultural strengths informed guide chapters. Each chapter includes an introduction; how that theme helps prevent Native youth suicide; a review of academic literature, community stories and programs; action steps; and additional resources.
CONCLUSIONS
CULTURE FORWARD honors and empowers communities by weaving strands of knowledge, stories, and practical resources highlighting Native communities' strengths to protect against Native youth suicide. The guide is free online and print copies are being distributed nationally. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
Topics: Adolescent; Humans; Indians, North American; Alaska Natives; Protective Factors; Suicide Prevention
PubMed: 35771514
DOI: 10.1037/cdp0000546 -
Risk and protective factors for college students' psychological health during the COVID-19 pandemic.Journal of American College Health : J... 2022College students' psychological health may be compromised due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we aimed to identify risk (eg, perceived risk of contracting COVID-19) and...
College students' psychological health may be compromised due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we aimed to identify risk (eg, perceived risk of contracting COVID-19) and protective factors (ie, social support, mindfulness) for positive (ie, subjective happiness, satisfaction with life) and negative (ie, depression, anxiety, stress) aspects of psychological health. Participants were 251 college students at a mid-Atlantic university. Method: Self-report online survey data were collected between March and May 2020 using established measures of risk perception, mindfulness, social support, and psychological health. Greater perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 was associated with greater depression, anxiety, and stress. Greater mindfulness was a protective factor for psychological health. Greater social support was associated with less depression, and greater happiness and life satisfaction. Programs that teach students how to cultivate mindfulness and supportive relationships and reduce their risk of contracting COVID-19 may help protect against depression, stress, and anxiety.
Topics: Humans; COVID-19; Students; Pandemics; Protective Factors; SARS-CoV-2; Universities; Depression; Stress, Psychological; Anxiety
PubMed: 33522442
DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1863413 -
The Journal of Surgical Research Dec 2022Lower screening rates and poorer outcomes for colorectal cancer have been associated with Hispanic ethnicity and Spanish-speaking status, respectively. (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Lower screening rates and poorer outcomes for colorectal cancer have been associated with Hispanic ethnicity and Spanish-speaking status, respectively.
METHODS
We reviewed sequential colorectal cancer patients evaluated by the surgical service at a safety-net hospital (SNH) (2016-2019). Insurance type, stage, cancer type, surgery class (elective/urgent), initial surgeon contact setting (outpatient clinic/inpatient consult), operation (resection/diversion), and follow-up were compared by patient-reported primary spoken language.
RESULTS
Of 157 patients, 85 (54.1%) were men, 91 (58.0%) had colon cancer, 67 (42.7%) primarily spoke Spanish, and late stage (III or IV) presentations occurred in 83 (52.9%) patients. The median age was 58 y, cancer resection was completed in 48 (30.6%) patients, and 51 (32.5%) patients were initially seen as inpatient consults. On univariate analysis, Spanish-speaking status was significantly associated with female sex, Medicaid insurance, being seen as an outpatient consult, and undergoing elective and resection surgery. On multivariable logistic regression, Spanish-speaking patients had higher odds of having Medicaid insurance (AOR 2.28, P = 0.019), receiving a resection (AOR 3.96, P = 0.006), and undergoing an elective surgery (AOR 3.24, P = 0.025). Spanish-speaking patients also had lower odds of undergoing an initial inpatient consult (AOR 0.34, P = 0.046).
CONCLUSIONS
Spanish-speaking status was associated with a lower likelihood of emergent presentation and need for palliative surgery among SNH colorectal cancer patients. Further research is needed to determine if culturally competent infrastructure in the SNH setting translates into Spanish-speaking status as a potentially protective factor.
Topics: Humans; Male; United States; Female; Middle Aged; Language; Safety-net Providers; Protective Factors; Hispanic or Latino; Colorectal Neoplasms
PubMed: 36041340
DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.06.060 -
Psychiatry Research Mar 2023Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people worldwide. Few studies examined the factors of childhood suicidality and compared them with adolescent...
Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people worldwide. Few studies examined the factors of childhood suicidality and compared them with adolescent suicidality to meet their age-specific needs. We examined the similarities and differences in risk and protective factors of children and adolescent suicidality in Hong Kong. A school-based survey with 541 students in grades 4-6 and 3,061 students in grades 7-11 from 15 schools was conducted. We measured the demographic, familial, school, mental health, and psychological factors of suicidality. Hierarchical binary logistic regressions were performed to examine the association between correlates and child and youth suicidality, and the interaction effects of these factors and school-age groups. Approximately 17.51% and 7.84% of secondary school respondents and 15.76% and 8.17% of primary school respondents reported suicidal ideation and attempt, respectively. Common correlates for suicidal ideation were depression, bullying, loneliness, self-compassion, and growth mindset, while those for suicide attempt were depression and bullying. Secondary school respondents with higher life satisfaction reported less suicidal ideation, while primary school respondents with higher self-control reported fewer suicide attempts. In conclusion, we recommended recognizing the factors of suicidal ideation and attempt in children and adolescents to tailor preventive strategies in a culturally sensitive manner.
Topics: Humans; Adolescent; Child; Suicidal Ideation; Hong Kong; Protective Factors; Risk Factors; Suicide, Attempted
PubMed: 36796255
DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115059 -
International Journal of Law and... 2022This study examined whether protective factors are unique or the opposite of risk factors and whether they have incremental validity in the prediction of general...
This study examined whether protective factors are unique or the opposite of risk factors and whether they have incremental validity in the prediction of general recidivism. Using a sample of 3306 Dutch forensic outpatients, this study was the first large-sample study ever performed on this topic. Results from exploratory factor analyses demonstrated a relatively stable factor structure of 14 factors, consisting of 32 of the initially included 68 risk factors and 11 of the initially included 17 protective items. The protective factors were found to be either bipolar (i.e., mirror images of risk factors) or responsivity characteristics (i.e., motivation for treatment, cognitive disability). Incremental validity for the recidivism prediction was found in one factor with internal protective items (e.g., empathy, financial management, life goals). This factor decreased the recidivism risk by 6%. However, weak predictive accuracy was found for this factor. Implications for clinical forensic practice are discussed with special focus on the risk-need-responsivity model.
Topics: Criminals; Data Collection; Humans; Protective Factors; Recidivism; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors
PubMed: 34933214
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijlp.2021.101772 -
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Oct 2021Peer violence in school has become a major issue for schools around the world. The present study examined the impacts of cultural settings and of protective individual...
Peer violence in school has become a major issue for schools around the world. The present study examined the impacts of cultural settings and of protective individual attributes on peer bullying and victimization in school. These protective attributes were self-esteem, sense of autonomy, emotional regulation, and individual resilience. Participants were 112 Jewish and 55 Arab Bedouin pupils 10 to 11 years old. It was hypothesized that Jewish pupils would score lower than Bedouin pupils on bullying and on victimization, and will score higher than them on these protective individual attributes. It was also hypothesized that despite these differences, the investigated attributes would correlate with reduced peer violence in both groups. It was hypothesized further that individual resilience will be the major predictor of both bullying and victimization in both groups. Results have generally supported these hypotheses, suggesting alternative ways for curtailing peer aggression in school.
Topics: Bullying; Child; Crime Victims; Humans; Israel; Peer Group; Protective Factors; Schools
PubMed: 31328623
DOI: 10.1177/0886260519863192 -
PloS One 2022Having a good awareness of ovarian cancer (OC) risk and protective factors could facilitate early diagnosis. This study aimed to assess Palestinian women's awareness...
INTRODUCTION
Having a good awareness of ovarian cancer (OC) risk and protective factors could facilitate early diagnosis. This study aimed to assess Palestinian women's awareness about OC risk and protective factors and to identify the factors associated with having good awareness.
METHODS
A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2019 to March 2020 in the two main areas of Palestine: the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and the Gaza Strip. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated OC awareness measure was utilized. Adult women attending hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces at 11 governorates were invited to participate. The awareness level was categorized based on the number of factors recognized: poor (0 to 5), fair (6 to 10) and good (11 to 15).
RESULTS
Of the 6095 women approached, 5618 agreed and completed the questionnaire (response rate = 92.1%). The final analysis included 5411 questionnaires. The most identified modifiable OC risk factor was 'being a smoker' (n = 4024, 74.4%), whereas the least identified was 'having in vitro fertilization treatment' (n = 1652, 30.5%). The most identified non-modifiable OC risk factor was 'having ovarian cysts' (n = 3136, 58.0%), whereas the least identified was 'having endometriosis' (n = 1880, 34.7%). The most identified OC protective factor was 'breastfeeding' (n = 4770, 88.2%), whereas the least identified was 'using the pill for a long time' (n = 930, 17.2%). Only 820 women (15.2%) displayed good awareness of OC risk and protective factors. Women from the Gaza Strip were slightly more likely than women from the WBJ to have good awareness (16.4% vs. 14.2%). In contrast, post-secondary education, higher monthly income, being married, and knowing someone with cancer were associated with an increase in the likelihood of displaying good awareness.
CONCLUSION
The overall awareness of OC risk and protective factors in this study was low. Educational interventions are needed to improve Palestinian women's awareness.
Topics: Adult; Arabs; Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Ovarian Neoplasms; Protective Factors; Risk Factors; Surveys and Questionnaires
PubMed: 35312720
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265452 -
The Journal of School Health May 2022Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with poorer health and educational outcomes. With over 20% of children experiencing multiple ACEs, interventions must... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with poorer health and educational outcomes. With over 20% of children experiencing multiple ACEs, interventions must target protective factors to improve outcomes among these students. Teacher-student relationships (TSRs) integrated with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) are one promising approach to building resilience to overcome ACEs.
METHODS
A narrative literature review was conducted on ACEs, resilience, TSRs, and the WSCC model to explore the evidence and potential of TSR interventions integrated within the WSCC model to build resilience in students experiencing ACEs.
RESULTS
Supportive adult relationships are one of the strongest protective factors against ACEs. TSR interventions have improved student and relationship outcomes. Few studies have explored the relationship between TSRs and ACEs or TSR ACEs interventions. The WSCC model provides opportunities to integrate TSRs and other protective factors into a schoolwide health model to build resilience.
CONCLUSIONS
TSRs and the WSCC model are promising approaches to target protective factors to mitigate ACEs. Research is needed to further establish TSRs as a protective factor, explore TSR ACEs interventions, and determine best practices for integrating TSRs and resilience in the WSCC model.
Topics: Adult; Adverse Childhood Experiences; Child; Family; Humans; Protective Factors; Schools; Students
PubMed: 35191030
DOI: 10.1111/josh.13154