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Morelli M, Nappa MR, Chirumbolo A, Wright PJ, Pabian S, Baiocco R, Costabile A, Longobardi E, Cattelino E. Is Adolescents' Cyber Dating Violence Perpetration Related to Problematic Pornography Use? The Moderating Role of Hostile Sexism. Health Commun 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38225910 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2024.2304495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence is an important public health problem. Cyber dating violence (CDV) is a form of intimate partner violence perpetrated within a dating relationship via new communication technologies. This study investigated the moderating roles of hostile and benevolent sexism in the relationship between problematic pornography use and CDV perpetration. The Cyber Pornography Use Inventory, the Cyber Dating Violence Inventory, and the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory were completed by 421 Italian adolescents (M = 16.53; females = 63.7%). Results indicated that problematic pornography use was positively related to CDV perpetration. In addition, the relationship between problematic pornography use and CDV perpetration was found to be moderated by hostile sexism. In participants with low levels of hostile sexism, the relationship between problematic pornography use and CDV perpetration was not significant. Conversely, in those with high levels of hostile sexism, this relationship was stronger and significant. Benevolent sexism was not found to be a moderator in the relationship between problematic pornography use and CDV perpetration. Thus, hostile sexism could be a risk factor for the relationship between adolescents' problematic pornography use and their engagement in CDV. Conversely, low levels of hostile sexism could be a protective factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Morelli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome
| | | | | | | | - Sara Pabian
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University
| | - Roberto Baiocco
- Department of Developmental & Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Culture, Education and Society (DiCES), University of Calabria
| | - Emiddia Longobardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome
| | - Elena Cattelino
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Valle d'Aosta
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2
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Craig F, Servidio R, Calomino ML, Candreva F, Nardi L, Palermo A, Polito A, Spina MF, Tenuta F, Costabile A. Adverse Childhood Experiences and Mental Health among Students Seeking Psychological Counseling Services. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:ijerph20105906. [PMID: 37239632 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen a marked rise in the number of students accessing University Psychological Counseling (UPC) services, and their concerns have been increasingly severe. This study aimed to examine the impact of cumulative adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on mental health in students who had approached counseling services (N = 121) and students who had no experience with counseling services (N = 255). Participants completed an anonymous online self-report questionnaire measuring exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACE-Q), psychological distress (General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), personality traits (PID-5), and coping strategies. We found that students who approached UPC services scored higher on cumulative ACEs than the non-counseling group. While ACE-Q score was a direct positive predictor of PHQ-9 (p < 0.001), it did not predict GAD-7. Moreover, the results supported the existence of a mediation effect of avoidance coping, detachment, and psychoticism on the indirect effects of ACE-Q score on PHQ-9 or GAD-7. These results underlined the importance of screening for ACEs in a UPC setting because it can help identify students at higher risk for developing mental and physical health problems and provide them with early interventions and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Craig
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society (DICES), University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Rocco Servidio
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society (DICES), University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Candreva
- Psychological Counseling Services, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Lucia Nardi
- Psychological Counseling Services, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Adriana Palermo
- Psychological Counseling Services, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Alberto Polito
- Psychological Counseling Services, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | | | - Flaviana Tenuta
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society (DICES), University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society (DICES), University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
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3
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Bartolo MG, Servidio R, Palermiti AL, Nappa MR, Costabile A. Pro-Environmental Behaviors and Well-Being in Adolescence: The Mediating Role of Place Attachment. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:ijerph20105759. [PMID: 37239488 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents represent the future generation, so it is important to pay attention to behaviors that involve them as actors in social activities and constitute the expression of an adequate growth path. Engaging in pro-environmental behaviors leads adolescents to do something good for themselves, for their own community, and for the place in which they live, and this type of conduct increases their levels of well-being and place attachment. This study examines the association between pro-environmental behavior and personal and social well-being in a sample of 1925 adolescents aged 14 to 20 years. Structural equation analyses showed a direct positive effect of pro-environmental behavior on personal and social well-being as well as place attachment. The latter partially mediated the relationship between pro-environmental behaviors and personal and social well-being. This study is significant in that it provides new data on how pro-environmental behaviors enhance adolescents' personal and social well-being by potentially ensuring long-term benefits, thereby suggesting that it is important to stimulate, motivate, and recommend these kinds of actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giuseppina Bartolo
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Rocco Servidio
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Anna Lisa Palermiti
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Nappa
- Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
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4
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Gioia MC, Cerasa A, Muggeo VMR, Tonin P, Cajiao J, Aloi A, Martino I, Tenuta F, Costabile A, Craig F. The relationship between maternal-fetus attachment and perceived parental bonds in pregnant women: Considering a possible mediating role of psychological distress. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1095030. [PMID: 36726507 PMCID: PMC9885764 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1095030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal-Fetal Attachment (MFA) delineates the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects that mothers develop toward the unborn baby during pregnancy. The literature indicates that optimal attachment in pregnancy represents a protective factor for the mother-child attachment bond after birth and child development outcomes. To date, there are few studies that have investigated associated factors of MFA. This study sets out to explore the association between perceived parental bonds and maternal-fetal bonding in pregnant women, accounting for factors such as psychological distress, socio-demographic and obstetric characteristics. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 1,177 pregnant women answered the Parental Bonding Instrument, the Maternal-Fetal Attachment Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-Y), and Beck-Depression Inventory (BDI-II). Results We found out that perceived maternal and paternal care had significant direct effects on maternal-infant bonding during the pregnancy period when controlling for some confounders, including gestational age and mother age among others. Such maternal and paternal perceived care effects were not mediated by levels of psychological distress, which in turn resulted to be a "borderline" significant predictor of prenatal attachment. Interestingly, the gestational age and the mother age emerged to have a significant and synergic nonlinear effect, suggesting the influence on the MFAS of the gestational age depends on the values of the mother age, and likewise, the effect of mother age on MFAS depends on the gestational week. Conclusion This study expands our knowledge of the intergenerational transmission of attachment pointing out the effects of a woman's perceived bond in relation to her parental figures during the development of the prenatal attachment process. Findings also suggests that parenting support interventions may have benefits that are realized across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C. Gioia
- iGreco Ospedali Riuniti, Cosenza, Italy,Associazione di Volontariato Mammachemamme, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Antonio Cerasa
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Messina, Italy,Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health Science and Nutrition, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy,S’Anna Institute, Crotone, Italy,*Correspondence: Antonio Cerasa,
| | - Vito M. R. Muggeo
- Department of Economics, Business and Statistics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Juanita Cajiao
- Faculty of Medicine Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alessia Aloi
- Associazione di Volontariato Mammachemamme, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Iolanda Martino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institutes of Neurology, Magna Græcia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Flaviana Tenuta
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesco Craig
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy,Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea—Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Brindisi, Italy
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5
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Bartolo MG, Palermiti AL, Servidio R, Musso P, Tenuta F, Amendola MF, Costabile A, Inguglia C. The Relationship between Parental Monitoring, Peer Pressure, and Motivations for Responsible Drinking among Italian Adolescents: The Mediating Role of Positive Alcohol Expectancies. J Genet Psychol 2023; 184:23-41. [PMID: 36003006 DOI: 10.1080/00221325.2022.2113026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the associations between parental monitoring, peer pressure, and motivations for responsible drinking, while also taking the mediating role of positive alcohol expectancies into account. The participants were 579 Italian adolescents, aged 14-20 years (M = 16.39 years, SD = 1.27; 55.3% females), involved in a cross-sectional survey. They were administered online self-report questionnaires. Structural equation modeling revealed both direct and indirect positive associations between study variables. Parental monitoring was positively associated, both directly and indirectly, with adolescents' motivations for responsible drinking through the mediation of positive alcohol expectancies; peer pressure was negatively and indirectly associated with adolescents' motivations for responsible drinking, via the mediating role of positive alcohol expectancies. Findings highlighted the importance of environmental factors with regard to motivations for responsible drinking, suggesting the opportunity to implement prevention programs to improve parental monitoring and increase adolescents' skills to manage peer pressure and to develop realistic expectancies about drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria G Bartolo
- Dipartimento di Culture, Educazione e Società, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Anna L Palermiti
- Dipartimento di Culture, Educazione e Società, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Rocco Servidio
- Dipartimento di Culture, Educazione e Società, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Pasquale Musso
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Formazione, Psicologia, Comunicazione, Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Flaviana Tenuta
- Dipartimento di Culture, Educazione e Società, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Rende (CS), Italy
| | | | - Angela Costabile
- Dipartimento di Culture, Educazione e Società, Università della Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Cristiano Inguglia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Psicologiche, Pedagogiche, dell'Esercizio Fisico e della Formazione, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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6
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Palermiti AL, Bartolo MG, Musso P, Servidio R, Costabile A. Self-esteem and adolescent bullying/cyberbullying and victimization/cybervictimization behaviours: A person-oriented approach. Eur J Psychol 2022; 18:249-261. [DOI: 10.5964/ejop.5379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Although previous studies seemed to recognize negative associations between self-esteem and bullying/cyberbullying and victimization/cybervictimization behaviours, the findings are controversial. The current study tried to shed light on this issue by using a person-oriented approach among Italian adolescents. Participants included 936 students aged 13-16 years. Different domains of self-esteem and bullying/cyberbullying and victimization/cybervictimization behaviour during the previous 2-3 months were assessed through a self-administered questionnaire. The results suggested four self-esteem profiles, i.e., school/family-oriented, consistently high, self-derogation, and body/peer-oriented. Students in the consistently high self-esteem profile seemed to be more protected against bullying/cyberbullying and victimization/cybervictimization behaviours compared to those in the self-derogation profile. The findings showed that among adolescents there is a degree of heterogeneity in the self-esteem domain associated with different levels of bullying/cyberbullying and victimization/cybervictimization behaviour. This suggests that different domains of self-esteem and their interdependencies play a crucial role during adolescence, with consequences also in terms of diverse patterns of active and passive aggressive behaviour.
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7
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Ingoglia S, Musso P, Inguglia C, Barrett M, Tenenbaum H, Cassibba R, Albiero P, Bartolo MG, Burns B, Canale R, Costabile A, Elia G, Liga F, Palermiti A, Pichardo MC, Servidio RC, Verrastro V, Wiium N, Lo Coco A. Aligning personal and collective interests in emerging adults during the COVID-19 emergency in Italy. J Community Psychol 2022; 50:2177-2197. [PMID: 34862798 PMCID: PMC9015453 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the relations of emerging adults' personal (civic competence and interdependent self-construal) and community-based (sense of community and civic engagement) resources as predictors of appraisal of COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) and attitudes toward preventing contagion in Italy. Participants were 2873 Italian emerging adults (71% females) aged 19-30 years (M = 22.67, SD = 2.82). Structural equation modeling revealed both direct and indirect positive associations among study variables. Civic competence and interdependent self-construal were related to sense of community and civic engagement behavior which, in turn, predicted appraisal of PHEM. Appraisal of PHEM in turn predicted attitudes toward preventing contagion. Overall, findings highlight the importance of examining the alignment between personal and collective interests to understand emerging adults' evaluative and attitudinal experiences during a period of crisis, such as that created by COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Ingoglia
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human MovementUniversity of PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Pasquale Musso
- Department of Scienze della Formazione, Psicologia, ComunicazioneUniversity of BariBariItaly
| | - Cristiano Inguglia
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human MovementUniversity of PalermoPalermoItaly
| | | | | | - Rosalinda Cassibba
- Department of Scienze della Formazione, Psicologia, ComunicazioneUniversity of BariBariItaly
| | - Paolo Albiero
- Department of Psicologia dello Sviluppo e della SocializzazioneUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
| | - Maria G. Bartolo
- Department of Culture, Educazione e SocietàUniversity of Calabria, Arcavacata di RendeRendeItaly
| | | | - Rossella Canale
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human MovementUniversity of PalermoPalermoItaly
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Culture, Educazione e SocietàUniversity of Calabria, Arcavacata di RendeRendeItaly
| | - Giuseppe Elia
- Department of Scienze della Formazione, Psicologia, ComunicazioneUniversity of BariBariItaly
| | - Francesca Liga
- Department of Medicina Clinica e SperimentaleUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Annalisa Palermiti
- Department of Culture, Educazione e SocietàUniversity of Calabria, Arcavacata di RendeRendeItaly
| | - Maria C. Pichardo
- Department of Psicologia Evolutiva y de la EducacionUniversity of GranadaGranadaSpain
| | - Rocco C. Servidio
- Department of Culture, Educazione e SocietàUniversity of Calabria, Arcavacata di RendeRendeItaly
| | - Valeria Verrastro
- Department of Scienze Mediche e ChirurgicheUniversity of CatanzaroCatanzaroItaly
| | - Nora Wiium
- Department of Psychosocial ScienceUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
| | - Alida Lo Coco
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human MovementUniversity of PalermoPalermoItaly
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8
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Craig F, Mascheroni E, Giorda R, Felline MG, Bacco MG, Castagna A, Tenuta F, Villa M, Costabile A, Trabacca A, Montirosso R. Exploring the Contribution of Proximal Family Risk Factors on SLC6A4 DNA Methylation in Children with a History of Maltreatment: A Preliminary Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph182312736. [PMID: 34886461 PMCID: PMC8657512 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The cumulative effects of proximal family risk factors have been associated with a high number of adverse outcomes in childhood maltreatment, and DNA methylation of the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) has been associated with child maltreatment. However, the relationships between proximal family risk factors and SLC6A4 methylation remains unexplored. We examined the association among cumulative family risk factors, maltreatment experiences and DNA methylation in the SLC6A4 gene in a sample of 33 child victims of maltreatment. We computed a cumulative family risk (CFR) index that included proximal family risk factors, such as drug or alcohol abuse, psychopathology, parents’ experiences of maltreatment/abuse in childhood, criminal history, and domestic violence. The majority of children (90.9%) experienced more than one type of maltreatment. Hierarchical regression models suggested that the higher the CFR index score and the number of maltreatment experiences, and the older the children, the higher the SLC6A4 DNA methylation levels. Although preliminary, our findings suggest that, along with childhood maltreatment experiences per se, cumulative proximal family risk factors are seemingly critically associated with DNA methylation at the SLC6A4 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Craig
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (F.C.); (F.T.); (A.C.)
- Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, 72100 Brindisi, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.G.B.)
| | - Eleonora Mascheroni
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, 23842 Lecco, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (R.M.)
| | - Roberto Giorda
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, 23842 Lecco, Italy; (R.G.); (M.V.)
| | - Maria Grazia Felline
- Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, 72100 Brindisi, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.G.B.)
| | - Maria Grazia Bacco
- Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, 72100 Brindisi, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.G.B.)
| | - Annalisa Castagna
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, 23842 Lecco, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (R.M.)
| | - Flaviana Tenuta
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (F.C.); (F.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Marco Villa
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, 23842 Lecco, Italy; (R.G.); (M.V.)
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (F.C.); (F.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonio Trabacca
- Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, 72100 Brindisi, Italy; (M.G.F.); (M.G.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Rosario Montirosso
- 0–3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Scientific Institute IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, 23842 Lecco, Italy; (E.M.); (A.C.); (R.M.)
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9
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Craig F, Gioia MC, Muggeo V, Cajiao J, Aloi A, Martino I, Tenuta F, Cerasa A, Costabile A. Effects of maternal psychological distress and perception of COVID-19 on prenatal attachment in a large sample of Italian pregnant women. J Affect Disord 2021; 295:665-672. [PMID: 34509782 PMCID: PMC8428478 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.08.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence concerning the impact of COVID-19-related stress exposure on prenatal attachment in pregnant women is unknown. In this study we sought to assess the effect of psychological distress and risk perception of COVID-19 on prenatal attachment in a Italian sample of pregnant women. METHODS 1179 pregnant women completed an anonymous online survey and self-report questionnaires measuring socio-demographic and obstetric characteristics, psychological distress (STAI Form Y-1-2 and BDI-II), prenatal attachment (PAI) and risk perception of COVID-19. Data were collected from March 2020 to April 2020 referring to the national lockdown period. RESULTS After adjusting for the socio-demographic and obstetric factors in the multivariable analysis, we found out the state anxiety was shown to be a significant predictor (p < 0001) of prenatal attachment. Moreover, the COVID-19-risk perception positively moderate the relationship between trait anxiety and prenatal attachment (p=0008), indicating that when COVID-19-risk perception is high, the effects of trait anxiety on prenatal attachment is attenuated. The synergistic effect between STAI Form Y-1 and COVID-19-risk perception index on PAI is partially mediated by STAI Form Y-2 score. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study showed that state anxiety related to COVID-19 outbreak in pregnant women may affect the prenatal attachment process of the expectant mother negatively. However, an adequate and functional perception of COVID-19 could enhance prenatal attachment. These results underline the importance of monitoring the prenatal attachment process and the mother's mental health during pandemics, to safeguard maternal and infant mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Craig
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Maria Cecilia Gioia
- iGreco Ospedali Riuniti - Sacro Cuore Corso Italia, 50, 87100 Cosenza CS; Associazione di Volontariato Mammachemamme, Cosenza, Italy.
| | - Vito Muggeo
- Department of Economics, Business and Statistics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Juanita Cajiao
- Faculty of Medicine Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain,Grupo de Investigación en Salud, Fundación Universitaria CAFAM, Colombia
| | - Alessia Aloi
- Associazione di Volontariato Mammachemamme, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Iolanda Martino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institutes of Neurology, Magna Græcia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Flaviana Tenuta
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Antonio Cerasa
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), 98164, Messina, Italy,S’Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
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10
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De Giacomo A, Pedaci C, Palmieri R, Simone M, Costabile A, Craig F. Psychological impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families: evaluation before and during covid-19 outbreak among an Italian sample. Riv Psichiatr 2021; 56:205-210. [PMID: 34310578 DOI: 10.1708/3654.36348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic forced parents and children to modify their habits with a radical change in the family routine and consequent increase in psychological stress. Children with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDDs) are particularly vulnerable to new and unexpected situations; moreover, the parents of these children generally show high levels of psychological stress due to the greater commitment that this condition imposes on them. The aim of this study is to evaluate the disease status of NDDs children before and during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and to evaluate the psychological effects related to measures of social distancing on these children and their families. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-one children with NDDs, were enrolled in this study and followed up at the Child Neuropsychiatry Unit of the University Hospital Consortium Corporation Polyclinic of Bari (Italy) along with their parents. Parents were evaluated before national lockdown (baseline) and recontacted during the SARS-CoV-2 emergency almost after a year. The changes in emotional/behavioral problems of children and parenting stress before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic were assessed with Child Behaviour CheckList (CBCL) and Parent Stress Index - short form (PSI). RESULTS The analysis of the emotional and behavioral problems of children with NDDs did not show statistically significant differences between the before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic period. The evaluations conducted on parents highlights an increase in parental stress during the pandemic. Significant differences (p<0.05) were found in three subscales: Parenting Distress (PD) scale, Dysfunctional Interaction Parent-Child (P-CDI) scale and Defensive responding scale (DF). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the increase in parental stress and a more difficult parent-child interaction with NDDs in the period of lockdown due to the pandemic; identification of these risk targets can be useful for interventions in similar situations. Therefore, it is necessary to provide caregivers information to manage and overcome challenges experienced during a pandemic and providing psychological support for caregivers of children with NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea De Giacomo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Chiara Pedaci
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Palmieri
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Marta Simone
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesco Craig
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
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11
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Servidio R, Bartolo MG, Palermiti AL, Costabile A. Fear of COVID-19, depression, anxiety, and their association with Internet addiction disorder in a sample of Italian students. Journal of Affective Disorders Reports 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2021.100097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
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12
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Craig F, Tenuta F, Rizzato V, Costabile A, Trabacca A, Montirosso R. Attachment-related dimensions in the epigenetic era: A systematic review of the human research. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 125:654-666. [PMID: 33727029 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, an increasing number of studies documented potential links between parental care and epigenetic mechanisms. The present systematic review focuses on the potential association and interrelationship between attachment-related dimensions and DNA methylation in human studies. We performed a literature review using electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost. Thirteen papers were included in the review. Findings support significant associations between attachment-related dimensions and epigenetic status in studies which considered different populations, age ranges, attachment measures and peripheral tissues. Although research in this area is still under investigation, available results suggest that DNA methylation associated with attachment-related dimensions might affect the development of stress regulation system and social-emotional capacities, thus contributing to the emerging phenotypic outcomes. However, identifying mediator and moderator effects in the interrelationship between these parameters was problematic owing to heterogeneous methodologies. Finally, we discuss clinical implications, unanswered questions, and future directions for human development in epigenetics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Craig
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Brindisi, Italy
| | - Flaviana Tenuta
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Veronica Rizzato
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Brindisi, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Culture, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Antonio Trabacca
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Unit for Severe Disabilities in Developmental Age and Young Adults, Brindisi, Italy.
| | - Rosario Montirosso
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, 0-3 Center for the at-Risk Infant, Bosisio Parini, Italy
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13
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Costabile A, Musso P, Iannello NM, Servidio R, Bartolo MG, Palermiti AL, Scardigno R. Adolescent Psychological Well-being, Radicalism, and Activism: The Mediating Role of Social Disconnectedness and the Illegitimacy of the Authorities. J Res Adolesc 2021; 31:25-33. [PMID: 33091236 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The identification of factors that counter youth's radicalization while promoting democratic activism is a timely social issue. This paper examines the association of psychological well-being (PWB) with violent radicalism and nonviolent activism, by focusing on the mediating role of both social disconnectedness (SD) and the perceived illegitimacy of the authorities (PIoA). Two mediation structural equation models (full vs. partial) were applied to data collected from 328 Italian adolescents (14-19 years). The results showed how SD and PIoA fully mediated the link of PWB with radicalism (negatively) and activism (positively). This model was further supported when compared with an alternative one proposing PWB as a mediator between SD and PIoA. The findings are discussed in light of the existing literature and provide potential implications for practice.
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Giuseppina Bartolo M, Servidio R, Musso P, Lisa Palermiti A, Maria Iannello N, Perucchini P, Costabile A. Identità multiple, connessione sociale e attivismo sociale: un modello esplicativo in adolescenti immigrati e italiani. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.3280/rip2020-001003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Menin D, Costabile A, Tenuta F, Oster H, Dondi M. Identifying fetal yawns based on temporal dynamics of mouth openings: A preterm neonate model using support vector machines (SVMs). PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226921. [PMID: 31856250 PMCID: PMC6922391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal yawning is of interest because of its clinical, developmental and theoretical implications. However, the methodological challenges of identifying yawns from ultrasonographic scans have not been systematically addressed. We report two studies that examined the temporal dynamics of yawning in preterm neonates comparable in developmental level to fetuses observed in ultrasound studies (about 31 weeks PMA). In Study 1 we tested the reliability and construct validity of the only quantitative measure for identifying fetal yawns in the literature, by comparing its scores with a more detailed behavioral coding system (The System for Coding Perinatal Behavior, SCPB) adapted from the comprehensive, anatomically based Facial Action Coding System for Infants and Young Children (Baby FACS). The previously published measure yielded good reliability but poor specificity, resulting in over-representation of yawns. In Study 2 we developed and tested a new machine learning system based on support vector machines (SVM) for identifying yawns. The system displayed excellent specificity and sensitivity, proving it to be a reliable and valid tool for identifying yawns in fetuses and neonates. This achievement represents a first step towards a fully automated system for identifying yawns in the perinatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Menin
- Dipartimento di Studi Umanistici, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Dipartimento di Culture, Educazione e Società, Università della Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Flaviana Tenuta
- Dipartimento di Culture, Educazione e Società, Università della Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Harriet Oster
- School of Professional Studies, New York University, New York City, New York, United States of America
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York City, New York, United States of America
| | - Marco Dondi
- Dipartimento di Studi Umanistici, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail:
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16
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Bartolo MG, Palermiti AL, Servidio R, Musso P, Costabile A. Mediating Processes in the Relations of Parental Monitoring and School Climate With Cyberbullying: The Role of Moral Disengagement. Eur J Psychol 2019; 15:568-594. [PMID: 33680147 PMCID: PMC7909179 DOI: 10.5964/ejop.v15i3.1742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, studies have extensively explored both personal and environmental predictors of cyberbullying. Among these predictors, parental monitoring and school climate were often expected to be associated with cyberbullying behaviors. However, little is known about the mediating mechanisms through which these relations may develop. The present study aimed to expand the current research by testing a theoretical model including the mediating role of moral disengagement in the relations between parental monitoring (including less collaborative vs. more collaborative strategies), school climate, and cyberbullying behaviors. Five hundred and seventy-one Italian adolescents (54.5% male) aged 14 to 20 years were recruited from high schools. Measures included demographics and parental monitoring, school climate, moral disengagement and cyberbullying scales. To test the hypothesized model, we estimated full and partial mediation models by structural equation modeling. Results showed negative indirect links of parental monitoring (but only the more collaborative strategies) and school climate with cyberbullying via moral disengagement. Less collaborative strategies of parental monitoring were neither directly nor indirectly related to cyberbullying. The findings revealed moral disengagement as an important process in explaining how ecological factors, such as parenting behaviors and school environments, are associate with cyberbullying. Limitations, strengths, and implications for practice are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giuseppina Bartolo
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Anna Lisa Palermiti
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Rocco Servidio
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Pasquale Musso
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Angela Costabile
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
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17
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Bartolo MG, Palermiti AL, Servidio R, Musso P, Costabile A. Mediating processes in the relations of parental monitoring and school climate with cyberbullying: The role of moral disengagement. Eur J Psychol 2019. [DOI: 10.5964/ejop.v15i3.1724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, studies have extensively explored both personal and environmental predictors of cyberbullying. Among these predictors, parental monitoring and school climate were often expected to be associated with cyberbullying behaviors. However, little is known about the mediating mechanisms through which these relations may develop. The present study aimed to expand the current research by testing a theoretical model including the mediating role of moral disengagement in the relations between parental monitoring (including less collaborative vs. more collaborative strategies), school climate, and cyberbullying behaviors. Five hundred and seventy-one Italian adolescents (54.5% male) aged 14 to 20 years were recruited from high schools. Measures included demographics and parental monitoring, school climate, moral disengagement and cyberbullying scales. To test the hypothesized model, we estimated full and partial mediation models by structural equation modeling. Results showed negative indirect links of parental monitoring (but only the more collaborative strategies) and school climate with cyberbullying via moral disengagement. Less collaborative strategies of parental monitoring were neither directly nor indirectly related to cyberbullying. The findings revealed moral disengagement as an important process in explaining how ecological factors, such as parenting behaviors and school environments, are associate with cyberbullying. Limitations, strengths, and implications for practice are presented.
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19
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Mazzulla S, Schella A, Gabriele D, Baldino N, Sesti S, Perrotta E, Costabile A, de Cindio B. Oxidation of human red blood cells by a free radical initiator: effects on rheological properties. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2016; 60:375-88. [PMID: 24840341 DOI: 10.3233/ch-141841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The main aim of this study was the investigation of the rheological properties of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) obtained from subjects admitted to blood donors, associated with the lipid profile of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), Triglyceride (TG) and Total Cholesterol (TOT-C). The deformability index of RBCs was determined by using a Dynamic Stress Rheometer (DSR-500) under oxidative injury induced by 2.2'-azo-bis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH). An increased rigidity of RBCs in subjects with borderline level of hyperlipidemia was found, compared with the control group. In order to explain the reason for the reduced deformability, a borderline group was studied for the evaluation of anionic permeability on membrane, haemolysis and morphological changes induced by AAPH, as well as ThioBarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARs) generation. Haemolysis by AAPH indicated a decrease of globular resistance in the borderline group, furthermore, the elevated values of TBARs suggested lipid peroxidative damage to the RBCs membrane associated with morphological changes and anion permeability alterations. Our study shows the correlation between biochemical and morphological parameters of RBCs and their rheological behavior during oxidative injury. Rheological studies might be useful as a clinical and diagnostic monitoring technique and provide support for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mazzulla
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (diB.E.S.T.), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - A Schella
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (diB.E.S.T.), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - D Gabriele
- Department of Engineering Modelling, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Materials, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - N Baldino
- Department of Engineering Modelling, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Materials, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - S Sesti
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (diB.E.S.T.), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - E Perrotta
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (diB.E.S.T.), University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - A Costabile
- Associazione Volontari Italiani Sangue (A.V.I.S.), Municipal Section, Cosenza, Italy
| | - B de Cindio
- Department of Engineering Modelling, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Materials, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
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Pérez-López E, Cela D, Costabile A, Mateos-Aparicio I, Rupérez P. In vitro fermentability and prebiotic potential of soyabean Okara by human faecal microbiota. Br J Nutr 2016; 116:1116-24. [PMID: 27469454 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114516002816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
At present, there is a huge interest in finding new prebiotics from agrofood industrial waste, such as the soyabean by-product Okara, rich in insoluble dietary fibre. A previous treatment of Okara with high hydrostatic pressure assisted by the food-grade enzyme Ultraflo ® L achieved a 58·2 % increment in its soluble dietary fibre (SDF) contents. Therefore, potential prebiotic effect of both treated and native Okara was assayed using 48 h, pH-controlled, anaerobic batch cultures inoculated with human faecal slurries, which simulate the human gut. Changes in faecal microbiota were evaluated using 16S rRNA-based fluorescence in situ hybridisation, whereas release of SCFA and lactic acid was assessed by HPLC. Both Okara samples exhibited potential prebiotic effects but Okara treated to maximise its SDF content showed higher SCFA plus lactic acid, better growth promotion of beneficial bacteria, including bifidobacteria after 4 and 48 h and lactobacilli after 4 h of fermentation, and a greater inhibition of potentially harmful bacterial groups such as clostridia and Bacteroides. Differences found between fructo-oligosaccharides and Okara substrates could be attributed to the great complexity of Okara's cell wall, which would need longer times to be fermented than other easily digested molecules, thus allowing an extended potential prebiotic effect. These results support an in vitro potential prebiotic effect of Okara.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Pérez-López
- 1Metabolism and Nutrition Department,Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN),Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC),José Antonio Novais 10,Ciudad Universitaria,E-28040 Madrid,Spain
| | - D Cela
- 2Food & Nutritional Sciences Unit,School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy,University of Reading,Reading,UK
| | - A Costabile
- 2Food & Nutritional Sciences Unit,School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy,University of Reading,Reading,UK
| | - I Mateos-Aparicio
- 4Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología II,Bromatología, Facultad de Farmacia,Universidad Complutense de Madrid,Ciudad Universitaria,E-28040 Madrid,Spain
| | - P Rupérez
- 1Metabolism and Nutrition Department,Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos y Nutrición (ICTAN),Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC),José Antonio Novais 10,Ciudad Universitaria,E-28040 Madrid,Spain
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21
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Bodinham CL, Smith L, Thomas EL, Bell JD, Swann JR, Costabile A, Russell-Jones D, Umpleby AM, Robertson MD. Efficacy of increased resistant starch consumption in human type 2 diabetes. Endocr Connect 2014; 3:75-84. [PMID: 24671124 PMCID: PMC3987287 DOI: 10.1530/ec-14-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Resistant starch (RS) has been shown to beneficially affect insulin sensitivity in healthy individuals and those with metabolic syndrome, but its effects on human type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are unknown. This study aimed to determine the effects of increased RS consumption on insulin sensitivity and glucose control and changes in postprandial metabolites and body fat in T2DM. Seventeen individuals with well-controlled T2DM (HbA1c 46.6±2 mmol/mol) consumed, in a random order, either 40 g of type 2 RS (HAM-RS2) or a placebo, daily for 12 weeks with a 12-week washout period in between. AT THE END OF EACH INTERVENTION PERIOD, PARTICIPANTS ATTENDED FOR THREE METABOLIC INVESTIGATIONS: a two-step euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp combined with an infusion of [6,6-(2)H2] glucose, a meal tolerance test (MTT) with arterio-venous sampling across the forearm, and whole-body imaging. HAM-RS2 resulted in significantly lower postprandial glucose concentrations (P=0.045) and a trend for greater glucose uptake across the forearm muscle (P=0.077); however, there was no effect of HAM-RS2 on hepatic or peripheral insulin sensitivity, or on HbA1c. Fasting non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations were significantly lower (P=0.004) and NEFA suppression was greater during the clamp with HAM-RS2 (P=0.001). Fasting triglyceride (TG) concentrations and soleus intramuscular TG concentrations were significantly higher following the consumption of HAM-RS2 (P=0.039 and P=0.027 respectively). Although fasting GLP1 concentrations were significantly lower following HAM-RS2 consumption (P=0.049), postprandial GLP1 excursions during the MTT were significantly greater (P=0.009). HAM-RS2 did not improve tissue insulin sensitivity in well-controlled T2DM, but demonstrated beneficial effects on meal handling, possibly due to higher postprandial GLP1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - E L Thomas
- Metabolic and Molecular Imaging GroupMRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial CollegeLondonUK
| | - J D Bell
- Metabolic and Molecular Imaging GroupMRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial CollegeLondonUK
| | - J R Swann
- Department of Food and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of ReadingWhiteknights Campus, Reading, RG6 6APUK
| | - A Costabile
- Department of Food and Nutritional SciencesUniversity of ReadingWhiteknights Campus, Reading, RG6 6APUK
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Monks CP, Palermiti A, Ortega R, Costabile A. A cross-national comparison of aggressors, victims and defenders in preschools in England, Spain and Italy. Span J Psychol 2011; 14:133-44. [PMID: 21568171 DOI: 10.5209/rev_sjop.2011.v14.n1.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a small, but growing, body of research investigating peer-victimisation between preschoolers, an age which has been identified as being important both theoretically and practically for the development of interventions. This study compares aggressive and defending behaviour and victim status of preschoolers in three European countries; England, Spain and Italy. The results provide further confirmation that some children behave aggressively towards their peers during preschool in each of the countries studied. There are similarities between preschool children involved in peer-victimisation in the three countries in terms of the roles taken, sex differences and the types of aggressive behaviours used and experienced by the children. There were differences in the profiles of children identified as taking the roles by teachers and peers. Overall, it was found that those children identified by peers or teachers as being aggressive were more likely to be male, rated as physically strong and more likely to be rejected by classmates. Also, in general, the targets of peer-victimisation differed depending on the reporter. Peer-nominated victims were not identifiable in terms of gender, popularity or physical strength. Teacher-nominated victims were more likely to be socially rejected and physically weak. There are several subtle differences between the countries which deserve further investigation. The findings are discussed in relation to furthering our understanding of the development of peer-victimisation in preschools and the need for interventions which address this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire P Monks
- Department of Psychology and Counselling, University of Greenwich, Avery Hill Campus, Southwood Site, Avery Hill Road, Eltham, London SE9 2UG, UK.
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Maccaferri S, Vitali B, Klinder A, Brigidi P, Costabile A. Rifaximin modulates the colonic microbiota of patients with Crohn's disease: an in vitro approach using a continuous culture colonic model system--authors' response. J Antimicrob Chemother 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkr080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Gomez E, Tuohy KM, Gibson GR, Klinder A, Costabile A. In vitro evaluation of the fermentation properties and potential prebiotic activity of Agave fructans. J Appl Microbiol 2009; 108:2114-21. [PMID: 19941629 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2009.04617.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study was carried out to evaluate in vitro the fermentation properties and the potential prebiotic activity of Agave-fructans extracted from Agave tequilana (Predilife). METHODS AND RESULTS Five different commercial prebiotics were compared using 24-h pH-controlled anaerobic batch cultures inoculated with human faecal slurries. Measurement of prebiotic efficacy was obtained by comparing bacterial changes, and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) was also determined. Effects upon major groups of the microbiota were monitored over 24 h incubations by fluorescence in situ hybridization. SCFA were measured by HPLC. Fermentation of the Agave fructans (Predilife) resulted in a large increase in numbers of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. CONCLUSIONS Under the in vitro conditions used, this study has shown the differential impact of Predilife on the microbial ecology of the human gut. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This is the first study reporting of a potential prebiotic mode of activity for Agave fructans investigated which significantly increased populations of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli compared to cellulose used as a control.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Gomez
- Gastroenterology Unit, National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico city, Mexico
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Napolitano A, Costabile A, Martin-Pelaez S, Vitaglione P, Klinder A, Gibson GR, Fogliano V. Potential prebiotic activity of oligosaccharides obtained by enzymatic conversion of durum wheat insoluble dietary fibre into soluble dietary fibre. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2009; 19:283-290. [PMID: 18805682 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2008.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2008] [Revised: 07/10/2008] [Accepted: 07/11/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Epidemiological evidence indicates that cereal dietary fibre (DF) may have several cardiovascular health benefits. The underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. Here, the potential nutritional effects of physico-chemical properties modifications of durum wheat dietary fibre (DWF) induced by enzyme treatment have been investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS The conversion of the highly polymerised insoluble dietary fibre into soluble feruloyl oligosaccharides of DWF was achieved by a tailored enzymatic treatment. The in vitro fermentation and release of ferulic acid by intestinal microbiota from DWF before and after the enzymatic treatment were assessed using a gut model validated to mimic the human colonic microbial environment. Results demonstrated that, compared to DWF, the enzyme-treated DWF (ET-DWF) stimulated the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Concurrently, the release of free ferulic acid by ET-DWF was almost three times higher respect to the control. No effect on the formation of short chain fatty acids was observed. CONCLUSIONS The conversion of insoluble dietary fibre from cereals into soluble dietary fibre generated a gut microbial fermentation that supported bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. The concurrent increase in free ferulic acid from the enzyme-treated DWF might result in a higher plasma ferulic acid concentration which could be one of the reasons for the health benefits reported for dietary fibre in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Napolitano
- Dipartimento di Scienza degli Alimenti, Università di Napoli Federico II, Parco Gussone-Ed. 84, Portici, Naples, Italy
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Parise E, Cleveland A, Costabile A, Striano T. Influence of vocal cues on learning about objects in joint attention contexts. Infant Behav Dev 2007; 30:380-4. [PMID: 17400052 DOI: 10.1016/j.infbeh.2006.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2006] [Revised: 08/15/2006] [Accepted: 10/05/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
An experimenter taught infants about a novel toy in two joint attention conditions, one with and one without vocal cues. In test trials, infants viewed the familiar toy and a novel toy. Infants in the Joint Attention plus Voice condition looked significantly longer to the novel toy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Parise
- Department of Educational Sciences, Calabria University, Italy
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27
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van Beek Y, Genta M, Costabile A, Sansavini A. Maternal expectations about infant development of pre-term and full-term infants: a cross-national comparison. Inf Child Develop 2006. [DOI: 10.1002/icd.428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Menesini E, Sanchez V, Fonzi A, Ortega R, Costabile A, Lo Feudo G. Moral emotions and bullying: A cross-national comparison of differences between bullies, victims and outsiders. Aggress Behav 2003. [DOI: 10.1002/ab.10060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Smith PK, Cowie H, Olafsson RF, Liefooghe APD, Almeida A, Araki H, del Barrio C, Costabile A, Dekleva B, Houndoumadi A, Kim K, Olafsson RP, Ortega R, Pain J, Pateraki L, Schafer M, Singer M, Smorti A, Toda Y, Tomasson H, Wenxin Z. Definitions of bullying: a comparison of terms used, and age and gender differences, in a fourteen-country international comparison. Child Dev 2002. [PMID: 12146737 DOI: 10.1111/1467–8624.00461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The study of school bullying has recently assumed an international dimension, but is faced with difficulties in finding terms in different languages to correspond to the English word bullying. To investigate the meanings given to various terms, a set of 25 stick-figure cartoons was devised, covering a range of social situations between peers. These cartoons were shown to samples of 8- and 14-year-old pupils (N = 1,245; n = 604 at 8 years, n = 641 at 14 years) in schools in 14 different countries, who judged whether various native terms cognate to bullying, applied to them. Terms from 10 Indo-European languages and three Asian languages were sampled. Multidimensional scaling showed that 8-year-olds primarily discriminated nonaggressive and aggressive cartoon situations; however, 14-year-olds discriminated fighting from physical bullying, and also discriminated verbal bullying and social exclusion. Gender differences were less appreciable than age differences. Based on the 14-year-old data, profiles of 67 words were then constructed across the five major cartoon clusters. The main types of terms used fell into six groups: bullying (of all kinds), verbal plus physical bullying, solely verbal bullying, social exclusion, solely physical aggression, and mainly physical aggression. The findings are discussed in relation to developmental trends in how children understand bullying, the inferences that can be made from cross-national studies, and the design of such studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Smith
- Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths College, New Cross, London, UK.
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Smith PK, Cowie H, Olafsson RF, Liefooghe APD, Almeida A, Araki H, del Barrio C, Costabile A, Dekleva B, Houndoumadi A, Kim K, Olafsson RP, Ortega R, Pain J, Pateraki L, Schafer M, Singer M, Smorti A, Toda Y, Tomasson H, Wenxin Z. Definitions of bullying: a comparison of terms used, and age and gender differences, in a fourteen-country international comparison. Child Dev 2002; 73:1119-33. [PMID: 12146737 DOI: 10.1111/1467-8624.00461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The study of school bullying has recently assumed an international dimension, but is faced with difficulties in finding terms in different languages to correspond to the English word bullying. To investigate the meanings given to various terms, a set of 25 stick-figure cartoons was devised, covering a range of social situations between peers. These cartoons were shown to samples of 8- and 14-year-old pupils (N = 1,245; n = 604 at 8 years, n = 641 at 14 years) in schools in 14 different countries, who judged whether various native terms cognate to bullying, applied to them. Terms from 10 Indo-European languages and three Asian languages were sampled. Multidimensional scaling showed that 8-year-olds primarily discriminated nonaggressive and aggressive cartoon situations; however, 14-year-olds discriminated fighting from physical bullying, and also discriminated verbal bullying and social exclusion. Gender differences were less appreciable than age differences. Based on the 14-year-old data, profiles of 67 words were then constructed across the five major cartoon clusters. The main types of terms used fell into six groups: bullying (of all kinds), verbal plus physical bullying, solely verbal bullying, social exclusion, solely physical aggression, and mainly physical aggression. The findings are discussed in relation to developmental trends in how children understand bullying, the inferences that can be made from cross-national studies, and the design of such studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter K Smith
- Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths College, New Cross, London, UK.
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Menesini E, Eslea M, Smith PK, Genta ML, Giannetti E, Fonzi A, Costabile A. Cross-national comparison of children's attitudes towards bully/victim problems in school. Aggress Behav 1997. [DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-2337(1997)23:4<245::aid-ab3>3.0.co;2-j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Smith PK, Hunter T, Carvalho AM, Costabile A. Children's perceptions of playfighting, playchasing and real fighting: a cross-national interview study. Social Development 1992. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9507.1992.tb00125.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Costabile A, Smith PK, Matheson L, Aston J, et al. Cross-national comparison of how children distinguish serious and playful fighting. Dev Psychol 1991. [DOI: 10.1037/0012-1649.27.5.881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Genta ML, Tartabini A, Costabile A. [Mothers and infants as initiators of interaction in several mother/child pairs (2-4 months]. Minerva Pediatr 1989; 41:305-10. [PMID: 2601647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this research is to show the main social patterns in five mother-infant dyads (3 males and 2 females), observed in their families (48 sessions-8/16 weeks). The maternal patterns Speaking to, Smiling at, Touching directed to infants present significant correlations in our Ss (rs Spearman less than 0.01 p less than 0.001). Infants are active initiators in Looking at/ Smiling by mother, Vocalizing/ Smiling by mother. Moreover maternal initiatives differ significantly in Smiling at/ Looking at by infant, Smiling at/ Vocalizing by infant (t Student less than 0.01 p less than 0.001).
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