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                    <title><![CDATA[Current Social Sciences (Volume 3 - Issue 1)]]></title>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com/journal/214</link>

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                    RSS Feed for Journals <![CDATA[Current Social Sciences]]> | BenthamScience

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                    <generator>EurekaSelect (+https://www.benthamscience.com)</generator>

                    <pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate>

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                    <title><![CDATA[Current Social Sciences (Volume 3 - Issue 1)]]></title>

                    <url></url>

                    <link>https://www.benthamscience.com/journal/214</link>

                    </image><item><title><![CDATA[A Review of Mental Health: Epidemiology, Interventions, and Treatment Modalities]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/147600</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[Psychiatric problems are widespread globally, with depression ranking as the third most prevalent factor. By 2030, it is forecasted to become the leading factor contributing to the occurrence of diseases. The state of one's mental health has a substantial influence on their sense of value, relationships with others, and day-to-day functioning. Signs and symptoms of mental health issues can include enduring feelings of sadness, disruptions in sleep patterns, reduced energy levels, alterations in appetite, changes in behaviour and thoughts, difficulties with concentration, substance abuse, detachment from reality, managing daily stress, problems in relationships, deterioration in personal care, and a noticeable decline in performance at school, work, or social activities. These symptoms may result in social isolation, emotional eruptions, intense rage, suicidal ideation, impaired focus, and challenges in interpersonal interactions. Having an optimal state of mental health can significantly improve the overall quality of life, whilst having a substandard state of well-being can worsen it. There is a strong association between poor mental health and a range of diseases, such as chronic inflammation, cardiovascular dysfunction, asthma, metabolic disorders, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune syndromes, and neurological diseases. Various elements, including biological, psychological, behavioural, dietary, and social factors, might exert an influence on mental health. The government implements actions and projects to improve global mental health, and there are multiple ways available for assessing mental health. Medicinal therapies such as Ayurvedic, Homeopathic, Allopathic, and Unani can be utilized to enhance mental health. The extent to which psychological therapy can improve mental health is still a mystery to us. A thorough literature review was conducted using various databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus) and government websites, focusing on mental health, including epidemiology, interventions, and treatment methods. Additionally, the potential impacts of climate change on mental health were examined. This study aimed to address the limitations of previous reviews by evaluating the effectiveness of various psychological interventions, regardless of their theoretical foundation, and assessing the influence of different moderators in a single systematic review and meta-analysis. While further research is needed, the review offers insights into the design of psychological interventions to enhance mental well-being.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Cancer Trends in the U.S. (2001–2024): Progress and Persistent Challenges in Incidence and Mortality with Insights into Future Prevention and Treatment]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/146779</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[This editorial explores the trends in incidence and mortality for cancer for the years 2001-2024, with special emphasis laid on some of the key public health as well as social implications. It has been observed that new cases of cancer have been on the increase in the early years of the 2000s, but the turnaround of the trend in mortality can be explained by major strides in the field of diagnostics as well as treatment modalities, including immunotherapies and targeted therapies. Even though the trend of increasing obesity-related cancers and persistent disparities in outcome by race and socioeconomic status poses an ongoing challenge, projections for 2023 and 2024 show that the trend of incidence increases but stabilizes mortality. Such trends point to an urgent need for an all-inclusive approach to prevention, early detection, and equitable access to healthcare to prevent further burden of cancer on diverse populations.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring the Penetration of ICT in Rural Primary Schools and How it Influences Teachers, Learners, and the Teaching-learning Process. A Case of South Africa]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/146319</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Background: The digital environment possesses a strong influence on the learning environment and enhances the development and refinement of both teachers' and learners’ preexisting skills. Essentially, teaching and learning with ICT encourages learner-centered approach which is associated with more learner involvement and active learning. </p> <p> Methods: The qualitative interpretive approach was used. A multi-case study design was used. Purposeful sampling and random sampling techniques were used to select the participants. Data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews with fifteen teachers. </p> <p> Results: The findings revealed that teachers lacked ICT skills. Also, the lack of ICT infrastructure and internet access made it difficult for teachers to help learners use ICT and inhibited active learning. Thus, training could enable teachers to acquire ICT skills to improve the teachinglearning process. </p> <p> Conclusion: Therefore, making ICT an integral component of the rural primary school education system is a serious issue for policy-making and planning to enhance learner participation, collaboration, and communication processes during the teaching-learning process. Furthermore, mechanisms, such as ICT training, provision of laptops, and improved internet access could provide opportunities for learners to utilize technology during the teaching-learning process in rural primary schooling. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[How do Sleep and Cell Phone use Relate to Students' Academic Performance?]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/147089</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: It has been observed, through studies, that the use of mobile phones and direct sleep affect the academic performance of students. </p> <p> Objectives: The main objective of the present study was to investigate the possible relationship between mobile phone addiction, sleep quality and academic performance of college students and how one factor significantly influenced the other. </p> <p> Methods: In the study carried out electronically through the MS FORMS platform, 112 students participated: 30 men, 80 women, 1 non-party person and 1 transgender man, with an age range of 18 to 65 years (mean age 30). The SAS_SV research scales for mobile phone addiction, PSQI for sleep quality, and APS for academic performance were used to investigate correlations. Data were analyzed using Jamovi 2.3. </p> <p> Results and Discussions: The results of the present study demonstrated statistically significant correlations between the variables under investigation with a <i>p</i>-value less than 0.05, verifying the primary hypothesis. </p> <p> Conclusion: In this particular study, it was observed how important the effect of the mobile phone might be on the quality outcome of sleep, on academic performance, but also in what other ways the three different factors could negatively influence each other in terms of student performance. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Stress, Work-Related Stress and Eating Disorders]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/147850</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: Work-related stress is a condition caused by job demands that exceed the individual's ability to cope with them. Its effects can be serious for health and overall well-being, affecting, among other things, eating behaviors and the development of eating disorders. </p> <p> Objectives: To investigate the impact of work-related stress, anxiety and depression on employees' food choices and behavioral responses to food. </p> <p> Method: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted on a sample of public and private sector employees who completed a questionnaire on food attitudes and psychological distress. Food attitudes were assessed with the EAT-26 scale, while depression, anxiety and stress were assessed with the DASS-21 scale. </p> <p> Results and Discussion: The questionnaire was completed by 52 employees with a mean age of 39.7 ± 14.0, 75.0% of whom were women, with a mean total employment duration of 14.1 ± 10.2 years. Overall, 5.8% of participants reported very severe depression, 1.9% reported very severe anxiety, and 15.4% reported very severe stress.Moreover, 75.0% of employees were within the normal range of scores on the EAT-26 scale, while 25.0% had evidence of a possible eating disorder. Contrary to expectations, the total score of the DASS-21 was not correlated with the EAT-26 score (<i>p</i> = .930), while no statistically significant correlations were recorded between the dimensions of the two questionnaires. </p> <p> Conclusion: The small sample size is a major limitation of the study that probably affected the finding of statistically significant correlations between the main research variables. Future research can focus on more representative samples in the Greek working population, examining in more detail the relationship between eating disorders and work-related stress. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Interplay between Child Temperament and Parenting Influences on Internalising and Externalising Difficulties of Children: A Systematic Review of the Literature]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/147765</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: Both child temperament and parenting have been investigated as important factors in the development of the psychological and emotional well-being of children. However, their relationship has not been systematically reviewed in early-mid childhood. Therefore, this study aimed to review the interplay between child temperament and parenting influences on childhood internalising and externalising problems. </p> <p> Methods: A systematic search was carried out on psychological and bio-medical databases from inception to July 2023. Only original articles, written in English, assessing the impact of temperament and parenting on childhood internalising and externalising problems before the age of 9 were included. </p> <p> Results and Discussion: Out of an initial pool of 868 records, a total of 190 records were deemed eligible for full-text screening, and 21 studies were included in the narrative synthesis. Of the 16 studies that explored both parent and child influences, all but one found a joint effect of parent and child variables on the outcomes. Multiple studies found evidence for temperament as a moderator in the relationship between parenting and mental health outcomes, but there was also evidence of moderating and mediating effects of parenting on internalising and externalising problems in childhood. </p> <p> Conclusion: The findings of this review highlight that both parenting and child temperament play a role in internalising and externalising difficulties and the importance of considering both contributions of child temperament and parenting behaviours in developmental psychopathology research. However, whilst we can conclude parenting and child factors play a role in these difficulties, deciphering the specific traits and how they interact requires further exploration. Future studies should consider the importance of recruiting nationally representative samples or over sampling from disadvantaged communities and increasing the presence of fathers within the literature on parenting. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Research on Knowledge Co-construction Model of Smart Learning Community Based on Value Co-creation Perspective]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/148463</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: The smart learning community builds a virtual mapping learning ecosystem using digital technology, stimulates the virtualization reconstruction of teaching fields, reshapes the necessity of knowledge co-construction based on the perspective of value co-creation, and creates an important platform to support higher education teaching reform. </p> <p> Objective: This study constructed a knowledge co-construction model for smart learning communities. </p> <p> Method: This study used the grounded theory research method. </p> <p> Results and Discussion: The optimization iteration of knowledge co-construction as \"value provision that matches individual interests and community goals → value definition of self-organizing exploration → value presentation of topic focus → value proliferation of knowledge innovation\" is summarized. </p> <p> Conclusion: The experiential dominant logic of value co-creation and self-organizing system theory are used to analyze this model’s element structure and correlation mechanism. Based on this, suggestions for promoting knowledge co-construction to achieve sustainable community development are proposed. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Deconstructing Proverbs: Unveiling the Paradoxes of Beginnings and Endings]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/149153</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: This study investigates the paradoxical nature of beginnings and endings as expressed through proverbs across various cultures and historical contexts. Proverbs often encapsulate profound insights into human experiences, particularly the dualities and transitions inherent in starting new journeys and concluding existing ones. </p> <p> Methods: The research involves a qualitative analysis of ten carefully selected proverbs that focus on the themes of beginnings and endings. The study employs a deconstructionist approach to examine the layered meanings and cultural significance of these sayings, revealing their relevance to human resilience and growth. </p> <p> Results: The analysis uncovers the inherent dualities and paradoxes embedded in these proverbs, illustrating how they reflect the intertwined challenges and opportunities presented by transitions. The findings highlight the cyclical nature of growth and renewal, emphasizing the interconnectedness of beginnings and endings in human experience. Beginnings and endings are more than mere moments; they are mirrors reflecting the paradoxes of human existence. Proverbs about life's transitions unravel profound truths, revealing the duality of opportunity and challenge. </p> <p> Discussion: This study reveals how proverbs serve as cultural tools for navigating life’s transitions, blending timeless wisdom with practical resilience. They reflect human adaptability while preserving collective knowledge across generations. However, the limited sample size and lack of empirical validation highlight avenues for future research. Despite these constraints, the findings affirm proverbs’ enduring role in framing life’s cyclical nature and universal human experiences. </p> <p> Conclusion: By exploring the complexities of transitions through the lens of proverbs, this study deepens the understanding of human nature and the universal patterns of change. It underscores the value of these timeless expressions as tools for navigating life's challenges and opportunities, fostering a richer appreciation of the human journey. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Eco-Apps for Change? Evaluating Mobile Apps to Promote and Support Sustainable Lifestyle Changes]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/145032</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: Mobile digital devices have developed mainly from voice communications to always-on internet-accessing, mini-computers used universally across the generations. As the consumption and use of smartphones and digital devices and services grow exponentially, their pervasive acceptance has coincided with an increasing demand for mobile software applications. Faced with the evidence of the deepening climate crisis, can mobile digital apps be better deployed in support of critical lifestyle and behavioral changes required to tackle the impacts of climate change? Applying a review of the existing literature on mobile apps and combining this with original data from new eco-app users affords us deeper insights into the effectiveness (or otherwise) and utility of apps in promoting lifestyle changes allowing us to better design, develop, and deploy these digital tools for environmental good. </p> <p> Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature on behavioural change and its links to digital ICTs is undertaken. This is followed by an analysis of quantitative data collected from just under 100 novel eco-app users to explore what they found useful, what they found troublesome, and what forced them to reject and uninstall such apps. </p> <p> Results: Findings identified an overcrowded marketplace as a barrier to success. Attrition is also an issue of concern in encouraging digital intervention lifestyle change, with some revealing they would uninstall apps if they affected the operation and running of their device, or if the services on offer were irrelevant to their needs at a particular time. </p> <p> Conclusion: The study concludes by outlining recommendations and guidelines for best practices in future digital interventions for promoting sustainable behavioural change specifically using mobile digital apps. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[A Comprehensive Review on Arsenic Poisoning in Human Health]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/150398</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[One of the worst health issues in the world, especially in South Asia, is arsenic poisoning. The earth's crust, air, water, and soil all naturally contain this hazardous metalloid. In this review, we have summarized the signs and symptoms, sources of exposure, metabolism, toxicological effects, and prevention and treatment of arsenic poisoning. Recent, up-to-date data were collected from government agencies such as the WHO, EPA, and BIS, as well as reputable review papers published between 2000 and 2024, which were among the many scientific sources consulted, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The two main types of inorganic arsenic commonly discharged into the environment due to ore smelting processes are arsenite (As<sup>III</sup>) and arsenate (As<sup>V</sup>). Serious health issues, such as cancer, cardiovascular damage, neurological dysfunction, respiratory tract irritation, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and skin abnormalities, are brought on by chronic poisoning from extended exposure to arsenic through contaminated food, drinking water, and work-related activities. Acute arsenic poisoning has been treated with chelation therapy. This review helps researchers gain up-to-date knowledge about arsenic and arsenic poisoning.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Bibliometric Analysis of Global Trends and Future Research Paths in Sustainable Consumption Research]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/150615</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[This study intends to summarize and integrate the existing literature on sustainable consumption, commonly called sustainable consumption intention/behavior. It also aims to recommend future research propositions for sustainable consumption within the field of marketing research. The bibliographic data of 257 documents was extracted from the Scopus-indexed database of journals in A* from the ABDC LIST 2022, covering the period from 1980 to 2024. VOSviewer was utilized to conduct the analysis. The findings indicate that recent years have witnessed increased productivity, with numerous authors demonstrating a keen interest in studying sustainable consumption. The central themes of sustainable consumption studies are sustainable tourism, sustainable consumer behavior, ethical consumption, environmental ideology, behavior change, social responsibility, sustainable transportation, ethical and environmentally sustainable behavior, and energy, food, and environmental sustainability. The article offers a comprehensive overview of the sustainable consumption topic, including thematic analysis, and proposes future research trajectories within the field. A thorough and inclusive overview of the predominant trends in sustainable consumption was conducted using the Scopus Indexed database and a bibliometric analysis. This research contributes to the literature by offering a clear, data-driven analysis of the field and highlighting emerging research areas. The study contributes to understanding how sustainable consumption intersects with climate action and other SDGs, offering actionable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners.]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Mental Health Literacy in Italy: Validation of the MHLq-YA and Implications for Targeted Interventions]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/150696</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: The growing prevalence of mental health issues among young adults highlights the need for validated tools to assess mental health literacy (MHL), particularly in non- English-speaking countries such as Italy. </p> <p> Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and September 2023 with 321 Italian young adults (69.8% female; mean age = 20.97 years), who completed the 29-item Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire for Young Adults (MHLq-YA). Validity and reliability were assessed using Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses (EFA and CFA). Pearson correlations examined associations between MHL and socio-demographic variables. </p> <p> Results: The Italian version of the MHLq-YA demonstrated strong psychometric properties, confirming a four-factor structure and high internal consistency. Female participants and those with personal exposure to mental health problems had significantly higher MHL scores. Younger individuals were more likely to endorse misconceptions and stereotypes about mental health. </p> <p> Discussion: These findings support the MHLq-YA as a valid and reliable instrument for assessing MHL in Italian youth. The observed associations with gender, age, and personal experience emphasize the importance of targeted educational approaches to improve MHL. </p> <p> Conclusion: The validated Italian MHLq-YA offers a culturally appropriate tool for measuring mental health literacy among young adults. It can inform the development of tailored interventions, educational programs, and public health campaigns aimed at enhancing mental health awareness and reducing stigma in Italy’s youth population. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Strengthening Youth Resilience: A Program Evaluation of Social Work Intern Interventions in Middle Schools and Boys & Girls Clubs]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/151095</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: Youth mental health is a growing concern worldwide, with increasing rates of depression and anxiety among adolescents. The Strengthening Youth Resilience (SYR) program aims to address these concerns by implementing social work intern-led interventions within middle schools and Boys & Girls Clubs to enhance mental health and resilience among youth in underserved communities. </p> <p> Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation by utilizing pre- and post-intervention surveys completed by youth participants and qualitative interviews with social work interns, teachers, and club staff. Quantitative data collection employed validated scales measuring depression, anxiety, resilience, and social connectedness. Qualitative interviews explored experiences with the program, implementation challenges, and recommendations for improvement. </p> <p> Results: Quantitative findings indicated a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and a substantial increase in resilience among middle school students. At Boys & Girls Clubs, a significant improvement in social connectedness was observed. Qualitative results underscored the value of trusting relationships with adults, the creation of safe spaces, and the importance of tailored interventions. However, stakeholders noted challenges such as inconsistent communication and limited parental engagement. </p> <p> Discussion: The SYR program’s effectiveness in reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing resilience highlights the significance of school- and community-based mental health interventions. Qualitative findings reinforce quantitative results and emphasize the necessity of supportive adult relationships and collaborative approaches. Identified challenges related to communication and parental involvement point toward areas for program enhancement and future research. </p> <p> Conclusion: The evaluation of the SYR program demonstrates its potential to effectively enhance youth resilience and mental health within underserved communities. The study emphasizes the critical importance of accessible, culturally responsive, and integrated mental health interventions delivered through collaborative school and community partnerships. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Decoding Mental Health: A Logistic Regression Analysis of Socio-Economic Indicators and Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) Across Nations]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/151318</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: This study aims to analyze the relationship between socio-economic factors and mental health using data at a global index level. It examines how indicators such as the Human Development Index (HDI), Global Health Security Index (GHSI), Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), and Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) influence the Mental Health Quotient (MHQ). </p> <p> Methods: Logistic regression models are employed to data from the Mental Health Million Project (2021) and other socio-economic indices. The analysis investigates correlations between MHQ and various factors, including economic participation, educational attainment, health and survival, Political empowerment, GDP, HDI, GHSI, CCPI, and MPI. </p> <p> Results: The results illustrate a positive relationship among MHQ and female economic participation and opportunity; it also implies mental health is connected to women workforce involvement. However, educational attainment harms MHQ, probably because unmitigated pressure leads to dim psychological health. Consequently, Health and Survival demonstrate positive connections to MHQ, whereas political empowerment and principal development indicators (GDP, HDI, GHSI, CCPI) show negative correlations. Belonging to MPI means a majority of the time, the more MHQ, which denotes better mental health, is a reality but sometimes, even if you have more MPI it does not mean worse mental health. </p> <p> Discussion: Our analysis reveals that economic prosperity does not necessarily lead to better mental or social well-being. Indicators like GDP, HDI, GHSI, and CCPI, which are often seen as markers of national success, show a negative correlation with the MHQ. Interestingly, the MPI exhibits a positive association with MHQ, suggesting that economic hardship does not always equate to poorer mental health. </p> <p> Conclusion: The study highlights the complex interplay between socio-economic development and mental health. The results suggest that economic growth alone is insufficient to improve mental well-being. Policymakers should adopt a holistic approach that balances economic, psychological, and social factors to enhance global mental health outcomes. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[The Link between Happiness and Wife Beating: An Investigation of Attitudes and Perceptions of Indians]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/147088</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: Domestic violence involves threats or use of physical or sexual violence, or both, that can cause injury. The causes of domestic violence are low education, poverty, dowry issues, caste, religion, patriarchal culture, etc. Though domestic violence is a subject of inquiry across every society, there is little research to understand the link between happiness and attitude towards domestic violence. </p> <p> Objective: The study dovetails with attitudinal, satisfaction, and socio-economic variables and aims to identify significant factors behind favorable attitudes towards wife beating in India. The paramount importance is placed on understanding the link between attitude towards wife beating and satisfaction variables such as happiness, life satisfaction, and financial satisfaction. </p> <p> Methods: The discussion is based on the 6th wave of the World Values Survey (WVS) and revolves around the question, “How justified do you think for a man to beat his wife?”. The responses were coded on a 1 to 10 scale where 1 means never justified and 10 means always justified. The analysis included 3070 responses comprising 1345 female and 1725 male respondents. The ordered logit regression technique was used to explain variation in attitudes towards wife beating. </p> <p> Results and Discussion: In India, men rule culturally. In reality, a collision between culture and modernization continues to occur. There are variables, such as employed women, educated, religious, urban residents, and information literate, that reduce the incidence of wife beating. In this study, the statistical analysis reveals that a favorable attitude toward wife beating is more or less an urban, pro-rich, upper-caste phenomenon. Women and religious persons are against wife beating. Though respondents of higher income deciles favor wife beating, respondents who are financially satisfied and happy in life oppose wife beating. The higher the level of happiness and financial satisfaction, the more likely individuals are to oppose violence against women. </p> <p> Conclusion: The findings confirm that happier people are prosocial and against domestic violence. Happy women have strong sentiments against the violence of beating women. It can be surmised that improvement in satisfaction variables can restrict social evils like wife beating. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Implementing a Multistep Network Model for Adult Autism Care: Evidence from the Piedmont Region]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/151989</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that requires lifelong support and significantly impacts social and occupational functioning. To promote effective inclusion, interventions must be both individualized and environmentally adaptive. This study aimed to examine the implementation of the Life Project (LF) within the Piedmont Region (Italy), a personalized plan focused on autonomy and decision-making support. The approach involved creating multidisciplinary teams with autism-specific expertise, ensuring continuity of care from childhood to adulthood, and employing standardized diagnostic tools for consistent assessment. Services were designed to prioritize community-based and home-centered interventions, with longterm residential care considered only when strictly necessary. The Turin Adult Autism Centre acted as a coordinating hub, integrating local services and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. </p> <p> Methods: A structured survey was conducted across 13 Local Health Units (ASLs), with 10 providing complete data, covering 1,664 adults with ASD. The questionnaire, distributed by the Regional Health Department to adult autism centers (NDPSA), explored organizational development, service provision, interagency collaboration, clinical assessments, and interventions. </p> <p> Results: Findings demonstrated a widespread network of services across the territory, suggesting the feasibility and scalability of the LF model. Nevertheless, areas needing improvement were identified, particularly in the standardization of care practices and service delivery. </p> <p> Discussion: These findings align with existing literature emphasizing the importance of continuity of care, person-centered planning, and community-based support in ASD. The LF model shows promise in addressing complex needs across the lifespan. However, limitations include variability in implementation and potential gaps in professional training. Further research is needed to refine protocols and assess long-term outcomes. </p> <p> Conclusion: The Life Project model represents a promising approach to ASD care, emphasizing autonomy, multidisciplinary coordination, and territorial integration, though further efforts are needed to enhance the standardization and quality of services. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Erectile Dysfunction in the Modern Era: A Review of Psychosocial Factors, Lifestyle Influences, and Emerging Therapies]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/152047</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men worldwide, with increasing prevalence among older adults and individuals with diabetes or cardiovascular disorders. Although historically regarded as a purely physiological condition, current understanding recognizes ED as a multifactorial disorder influenced by physical health, psychological status, social factors, and lifestyle habits. </p> <p> Methods: This review analysed recent literature on psychosocial determinants, lifestyle influences, and emerging therapeutic interventions for ED. </p> <p> Results: Psychosocial factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and social stigma significantly contribute to the onset and persistence of ED, often exacerbating underlying physiological causes and discouraging affected individuals from seeking treatment. Unhealthy lifestyle habits, including poor diet, physical inactivity, substance abuse, and sleep disturbances, are also independently associated with an increased risk of ED. </p> <p> Discussion: Advances in treatment now extend beyond pharmacotherapy, incorporating novel approaches such as low-intensity shockwave therapy, stem cell therapy, and digital health interventions. These developments reflect a paradigm shift in ED management. </p> <p> Conclusion: This review underscores the importance of adopting a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to the assessment and treatment of ED, integrating psychological, social, and lifestyle factors with emerging medical therapies to optimize patient outcomes. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring the Influence of Health Literacy on Decision-Making Preferences among Pharmacy Students]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/151878</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Introduction: One of the most important components of health promotion is health literacy. Since health literacy affects many aspects of daily life, including work, school, community involvement, and cultural practices, pharmacy students were primarily chosen as the main stakeholders, given their pivotal role in shaping and applying health knowledge. This study aimed to assess the levels of health literacy and decision-making preferences among pharmacy students, examining the influence of degree, age, course, and gender over a six-month period, without a predetermined sample size. </p> <p> Methods: Students' health literacy levels were assessed using the 16-item short form of the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire (HLS-EU-Q16). This instrument evaluates perceived ease or difficulty in obtaining, understanding, evaluating, and applying health information across three domains: health care, disease prevention, and health promotion. </p> <p> Results: The mean health literacy score among students in this study was 46.95 ± 6.86. A Chisquare test was performed to analyze the relationship between students’ pharmacy courses or pharmacy degrees and their knowledge levels, and the results were found to be significant (p = 0.001 for both). Overall, approximately 72.4% of students demonstrated excellent health literacy. </p> <p> Discussion: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to assess the factors influencing decision-making preferences among pharmacy students. The results showed that degree, age, and course had a significant effect on the ability to apply health information (p = 0.001, 0.002, and 0.001, respectively), whereas gender did not have a significant effect on the health information application score (p = 0.780). </p> <p> Conclusion: Higher education is often linked to improved health literacy and a greater desire to participate in healthcare decisions. This study provided new insights into how health literacy affects pharmacy students' functioning and overall health. </p>]]></description> </item><item><title><![CDATA[Advancing Life Science Pedagogy in Indian Higher Education]]></title><link>https://www.benthamscience.com/article/152068</link><pubDate>2026-02-23</pubDate><description><![CDATA[<p> Life science education encompasses the study of living organisms as well as their habitat relationships. The life sciences education in the Indian system faces multiple challenges, including insufficient numbers of teachers, inadequate facilities, outdated curricula, and low student enrollment. This paper investigates life science education in India through the lens of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020). Pedagogical improvements receive specific recommendations throughout the study. The research examines existing literature on Indian life science education while extracting data from authoritative sources, academic journals, and digital platforms. The study concludes with specific recommendations for improving life science education in India through curriculum changes alongside better-trained teachers, enhanced student participation, cross-disciplinary connections, research support, and future educational strategies. An evaluation has been conducted to compare the life science educator training programs both within India and at the global level. </p>]]></description> </item></channel></rss>