Journal Description
Children
Children
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of pediatrics, focusing on the dissemination of clinical, epidemiological and translational science relevant to children’s health, published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Pediatrics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Scope: Public Health and Epidemiology, Global Health, General Pediatrics, Pediatric Subspecialties, Pediatric Hospitalist Medicine
Impact Factor:
2.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
A Higher Amount of Nutritional Intake as a Possible Cause of Hyperglycemia in Extremely Premature Infants in Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition at the Tertiary Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Children 2023, 10(10), 1651; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101651 - 04 Oct 2023
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to find an association between infants who had hyperglycemia and those who did not, those treated with insulin or not and several prenatal and postnatal variables or the suboptimal prescription of parenteral nutrition. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study,
[...] Read more.
Background: This study aimed to find an association between infants who had hyperglycemia and those who did not, those treated with insulin or not and several prenatal and postnatal variables or the suboptimal prescription of parenteral nutrition. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study, which included extremely premature infants (<28 weeks of gestation) admitted to the tertiary NICU, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2021. Blood glucose measurements, insulin treatment, general characteristics, nutritional data and complications of prematurity were obtained retrospectively from hospital data. RESULTS: There were 21 infants included in the study who did not receive insulin and 17 who were treated with insulin. Infants receiving insulin were younger and lighter compared to the non-insulin treatment group (mean gestational age 178 vs. 188 days; median birth weight 680 g vs. 990 g). The younger insulin group of infants received the same daily number of total macronutrients per kg per day compared to the older non-insulin group, i.e., glucose, lipids and amino acids, as recommended for the gestational age and birth weight. After adjusting for gestational age, no significant association with complications of prematurity was found. Conclusions: The postulated explanation (with the prescription of a higher amount of macronutrients during the first seven days) for hyperglycemia and treatment with insulin in the less mature and lighter infants cannot be supported by the data given.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intensive Care for Critically Ill Neonates: Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment)
Open AccessEditorial
Editorial for the Special Issue “Current Development of Pediatric Minimally Invasive Surgery” of the Journal Children
Children 2023, 10(10), 1650; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101650 - 03 Oct 2023
Abstract
Dear colleagues,Pediatric minimally invasive surgery (MIS) epitomizes a dynamic and continuously evolving field that encompasses a broad range of procedures. [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Development of Pediatric Minimally Invasive Surgery)
Open AccessArticle
Healthy Social Network Use and Well-Being during Adolescence: A Biopsychosocial Approach
by
, , , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1649; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101649 - 03 Oct 2023
Abstract
Screen time and the use of social networks is the most frequent form of leisure time occupation and socializing for adolescents. The present study is aimed at understanding and characterizing, from an ecological perspective, what distinguishes healthy and less healthy or even dependent
[...] Read more.
Screen time and the use of social networks is the most frequent form of leisure time occupation and socializing for adolescents. The present study is aimed at understanding and characterizing, from an ecological perspective, what distinguishes healthy and less healthy or even dependent use of social media in young people and the influence on adolescents’ well-being. This paper is based on the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) from 2022, a survey carried out every 4 years, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), following an international protocol. A total of 7643 students from the 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th school grades responded, of which 53.9% were female, with an average age of 15.05 (SD = 2.36). The sample is representative of the school grades under study. The results allow us to study and identify similarities and differences between three groups related to the level of healthiness in the use of social networks and its relations to well-being from an ecological perspective. What distinguishes adolescents with less healthy use of social networks is that they are more often female, older, have more self-injurious behaviour, higher alcohol consumption, and a worse relationship with teachers. The adolescents with the highest level of dependence on social networks are those who have a higher perception of lack of safety at school and in their area of residence, as well as a higher use of screen time as a leisure activity. The well-being of adolescents using social media in a healthy way is explained by fewer psychological symptoms, better stress management strategies, better body awareness, more physical activity, less time online with friends, and better relationships with family and teachers. Technologies and social networks are important for the well-being of adolescents; it is essential to promote a healthy, critical and balanced use with other “screen-free” activities and to promote socio-emotional skills, a lack of which seems to be one of the biggest risk factors associated with the healthy use of technologies.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Effects of the Specific Eye Fixation Training on Fine Visuomotor Coordination in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Children 2023, 10(10), 1648; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101648 - 03 Oct 2023
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of quiet eye training (QET) on the neuropsychological functioning and fine motor performance of children with attention deficits. The participant cohort consisted of 106 children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) between the ages of 8 and 12
[...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of quiet eye training (QET) on the neuropsychological functioning and fine motor performance of children with attention deficits. The participant cohort consisted of 106 children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) between the ages of 8 and 12 years. The children were assigned to either the QET group (n = 54) or the control group (n = 52). The QET group went through a 5-week intervention in which the performance of blocks of targeting tasks was preceded by watching split-screen video footage featuring the gaze and body movements of a skilled model performing a throwing motion. Both groups underwent pre-test and post-test assessments, which included the reaction test of alertness, go/no-go inhibition test, and motor performance series test. The QET group demonstrated significant improvements in attentional engagement, inhibitory control, and fine motor skills, which require precise and fast visuomotor coordination. These results highlight the potential benefits of QET intervention in ameliorating attention deficits and enhancing fine aiming motor skills in children with ADHD. However, task specificity was evident, indicating that the intervention effects were most pronounced for the hand fine motor aiming tasks requiring both precision and speed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Adolescent Health and Development)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Enthesitis-Related Arthritis
by
, , , , , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1647; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101647 - 02 Oct 2023
Abstract
Enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) represents 5–30% of all cases of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and belongs to the spectrum of the disorders included in the group of juvenile spondyloarthritis. In the last decade, there have been considerable advances in the classification, diagnosis, monitoring, and
[...] Read more.
Enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) represents 5–30% of all cases of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and belongs to the spectrum of the disorders included in the group of juvenile spondyloarthritis. In the last decade, there have been considerable advances in the classification, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of ERA. New provisional criteria for ERA have been recently proposed by the Paediatric Rheumatology INternational Trials Organisation, as part of a wider revision of the International League of Associations for Rheumatology criteria for JIA. The increased use of magnetic resonance imaging has shown that a high proportion of patients with ERA present a subclinical axial disease. Diverse instruments can be used to assess the disease activity of ERA. The therapeutic recommendations for ERA are comparable to those applied to other non-systemic JIA categories, unless axial disease and/or enthesitis are present. In such cases, the early use of a TNF-alpha inhibitor is recommended. Novel treatment agents are promising, including IL-17/IL-23 or JAK/STAT pathways blockers.
Full article
Open AccessCommentary
Place-Based Strategies Addressing Neighborhood Environments to Improve Perinatal and Preterm Infant Outcomes
Children 2023, 10(10), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101646 - 02 Oct 2023
Abstract
Preterm birth (defined as birth <37 weeks of gestation) is a significant health concern globally, with lasting implications for individuals, families, and society. In the United States, high preterm birth rates among Black and low-income populations likely result from differences in environmental exposures.
[...] Read more.
Preterm birth (defined as birth <37 weeks of gestation) is a significant health concern globally, with lasting implications for individuals, families, and society. In the United States, high preterm birth rates among Black and low-income populations likely result from differences in environmental exposures. Structural racism and economic disadvantage have led to unequal distribution of polluting industrial sites and roadways across society as well as differential access to health-promoting resources which contribute to preterm birth risk. Once born, preterm infants remain at risk for numerous environmentally responsive adverse health outcomes that affect growth and development throughout childhood and adulthood. In this commentary, we describe associations of neighborhood environments with pregnancy and preterm infant health outcomes and propose strategies to address harmful exposures that affect families across the lifespan.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Implications of Preterm Birth for Health and Wellbeing over the Life Course)
Open AccessArticle
IgG Seroreactivites to Viral Capsid Protein VP1 of JC and BK Polyomaviruses in Children at Early Ages with Special Reference to Parental Cofactors
by
, , , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1645; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101645 - 01 Oct 2023
Abstract
BK (BKPyV) and JC (JCPyV) polyomaviruses are widespread in humans. Transmission at an early age and the role of parents in spreading these viruses through the family are incompletely understood. Our aim was to determine the seroprevalence of BKPyV and JCPyV in infants
[...] Read more.
BK (BKPyV) and JC (JCPyV) polyomaviruses are widespread in humans. Transmission at an early age and the role of parents in spreading these viruses through the family are incompletely understood. Our aim was to determine the seroprevalence of BKPyV and JCPyV in infants at the age of 1, 2, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months and to assess the frequency of BKPyV and JCPyV seroconversion. A variety of maternal and paternal covariates were also tested as potential predictors of these early childhood infections. We used multiplex serology to analyze antibodies to BKPyV and JCPyV from baseline to 3-year follow-up visits. We observed that there was nearly perfect correlation in BKPyV and JCPyV serum IgG antibody levels between the mother-infant pairs during the first year of the infant’s life. No correlation among BKPyV antibody titers were found in father–child pairs, whereas JCPyV antibody levels of the father and child had a significant correlation at the 2-year follow-up visit. BKPyV infection may be associated with a child’s predisposition to allergy. In conclusion, after the decay of maternal antibodies, children start to develop their own immunity toward BKPyV and JCPyV, and horizontal transmission of infection in the family can occur.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Allergy and Immunology)
Open AccessArticle
Centering Patient and Clinician Voices in Developing Tools to Address Pain Related School Impairment: A Phase I Study of a Virtual Reality School Simulation for Children and Adolescents with Chronic Pain
Children 2023, 10(10), 1644; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101644 - 01 Oct 2023
Abstract
Building on growing evidence supporting virtual reality (VR) interventions for pain management, this study describes the process of developing vReal-School (vRS), a VR-based school simulation for children and adolescents with chronic pain and associated school impairment. Following guidelines for developing user-centered VR interventions,
[...] Read more.
Building on growing evidence supporting virtual reality (VR) interventions for pain management, this study describes the process of developing vReal-School (vRS), a VR-based school simulation for children and adolescents with chronic pain and associated school impairment. Following guidelines for developing user-centered VR interventions, initial phases of intervention development focus on understanding and incorporating patient and clinician perspectives when designing this digital health tool. Phase I entailed focus groups with patients undergoing intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment (IIPT). A total of 19 participants across four focus groups shared their experiences related to dealing with pain at school and provided initial feedback on the concept of a VR-based school simulation. In phase II, we pilot-tested a vRS prototype and collected patient and clinician feedback via mixed method approaches. Phase I results highlight four themes related to pain in school, including physical/environmental challenges and solutions, academic challenges and solutions, peer interaction challenges and solutions, and teacher interaction challenges and solutions. These themes guided the development of our vRS prototype. Nine patients and eleven treating clinicians then engaged with the vRS prototype and provided feedback via semi-structured interviews and validated self-report measures. The results indicate high levels of patient engagement/immersion (mean total score of 17.0 on the Child Presence Measure). Qualitative feedback from both groups identified positive aspects of vRS, including finding the simulation realistic and easy to use and offering ways to address school functioning goals that are not otherwise feasible in the IIPT setting. Areas for improvement included integrating more physical movement as well as increasing the number of scenarios and the level of demands of the tasks available. Both patients and clinicians found vRS to be useful in the IIPT context and relevant to treatment goals. This user input will guide subsequent iterations of intervention development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Approaches to Treating and Preventing Pediatric Chronic Pain)
Open AccessCase Report
Anterior Uveitis and Coats Disease in a 16-Year-Old Girl with Noonan Syndrome—A Case Report
Children 2023, 10(10), 1643; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101643 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Background: Noonan syndrome (NS) represents a fairly common genetic disorder with a highly variable phenotype. Its features include inherited heart defects, characteristic facial features, short stature, and mild retardation of motor skills. Case presentation: A 16-year-old Caucasian girl with NS reported visual deterioration,
[...] Read more.
Background: Noonan syndrome (NS) represents a fairly common genetic disorder with a highly variable phenotype. Its features include inherited heart defects, characteristic facial features, short stature, and mild retardation of motor skills. Case presentation: A 16-year-old Caucasian girl with NS reported visual deterioration, photophobia, and pain in the right eye (RE). The initial best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.3 in the RE. An examination demonstrated conjunctival and ciliary body hyperemia, keratic precipitates, and flare in the anterior chamber. In addition, post-hemorrhagic floaters, tortuous vessels, and an epiretinal membrane in the RE were present. Diagnosis of unilateral anterior uveitis was made, and this resolved after the use of topical steroids and cycloplegic drops. Due to the presence of retinal telangiectasias and extraocular exudates (consistent with Coats’ disease (CD) stage 2A) in the RE, laser therapy was performed. The patient remains under constant follow-up, and after one year, the BCVA in the RE was 0.7. Conclusions: Here, we report the clinical characteristics, genetic findings, and retinal imaging results of a patient with NS. To our knowledge, this is, to date, the first report of an association of NS with a PTPN11 mutation with anterior uveitis and CD.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Pediatric Optometry and Vision Science)
Open AccessArticle
Contingent Mother’s Voice Intervention Targeting Feeding in Hospitalized Infants with Critical Congenital Heart Defects
by
, , , , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1642; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101642 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Infants with critical congenital heart defects (CCHD) are at high risk for feeding challenges and neurodevelopmental delays; however, few interventions promoting the neurodevelopmental progression of feeding have been studied with this population. Contingent mother’s voice has been successfully used as positive reinforcement for
[...] Read more.
Infants with critical congenital heart defects (CCHD) are at high risk for feeding challenges and neurodevelopmental delays; however, few interventions promoting the neurodevelopmental progression of feeding have been studied with this population. Contingent mother’s voice has been successfully used as positive reinforcement for non-nutritive suck (NNS) in studies with preterm infants, leading to improved weight gain and more rapid cessation of tube feedings; however, this type of intervention has not been studied in infants with CCHD. This study aimed to determine whether an NNS-training protocol using the mother’s voice as positive reinforcement and validated in preterm infants could improve oral feeding outcomes in hospitalized infants with CCHD undergoing cardiac surgical procedures. Infants were randomized to receive the contingent mother’s voice intervention before or after cardiac surgery, with a control comparison group receiving passive exposure to the mother’s voice after surgery. There were no significant differences in discharge weight, PO intake, length of stay, time to full feeds, or feeding status at 1-month post-discharge between infants who received contingent mother’s voice compared to those who did not. There were significant differences in PO intake and time to full feeds following surgery based on infants’ pre-enrollment PO status and severity of illness. At 1-month post-discharge, parents of infants in the intervention group expressed a higher rate of positive feelings and fewer concerns regarding their infant’s feeding compared to parents of infants in the control group. While the current protocol of 5 sessions was not associated with improved feeding outcomes in infants with CCHD, it empowered parents to contribute to their infant’s care and demonstrated the feasibility of using the mother’s voice as positive reinforcement for infants with CCHD. Further study of timing, intensity, and duration of interventions leveraging the mother’s voice in this population is needed. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03035552.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intensive Care for Critically Ill Neonates: Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment)
Open AccessArticle
Do You Want to Increase Physical Activity in Adolescents? A School-Based Physical Activity Program Could Be an Efficient Way
Children 2023, 10(10), 1641; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101641 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a classroom-based physical activity program, using bike desks, on academic and physical performance in adolescents. The Program to Enhance and Develop Active Lessons (PEDAL) was designed for this purpose, expecting an increase
[...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a classroom-based physical activity program, using bike desks, on academic and physical performance in adolescents. The Program to Enhance and Develop Active Lessons (PEDAL) was designed for this purpose, expecting an increase in students’ physical activity without any decrease in academic performance. This intervention based on pedal or bike desks—stationary bikes that integrate with a desk workspace—was conducted with 55 high- school students who were randomly assigned to two groups: a PEDAL group (n = 28, 14.86 ± 0.65 years old, 46.4% girls) and a control group (n = 27, 15 ± 0.68 years old, 51.9% girls). Throughout the intervention, the PEDAL students pedaled 4 days a week for 10 weeks during their Spanish-language arts lessons. The comparisons between the PEDAL group and the control group, as well as the pre- and post-test results, were statistically analyzed to verify the students´ physical activity (i.e., IPAQ-SF, heart rate monitors, polar OH1+), cardiorespiratory capacity (20m shuttle run test), and academic performance (d2 test of attention and language proficiency test). Regarding the physical aspect, only the PEDAL group showed significant growth in their physical activity levels as compared to the pre-test data (p = 0.001), and they achieved higher results compared with the control group (p = 0.022) and less sedentary time than control students (p = 0.012). Concerning cardiorespiratory fitness, there were no post-test differences between the two groups (p = 0.697), probably because the physical activity performed with the bike desks was light–moderate. As far as academic performance is concerned, no significant post-test effects were discovered in either group on the levels of language competence (p = 0.48), attention (TOT, p = 0.432), and concentration (CON, p = 0.216). In conclusion, adolescents who move while learning, using bike desks, increase their light and moderate physical activity without any detriment to academic performance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Lifestyle Habits in Children and Adolescents)
Open AccessOpinion
Need for Representation of Pediatric Patients with Obesity in Clinical Trials
by
, , , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1640; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101640 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Clinical trials are an integral aspect of drug development. Tremendous progress has been made in ensuring drug products are effective and safe for use in the intended pediatric population, but there remains a paucity of information to guide drug dosages in pediatric patients
[...] Read more.
Clinical trials are an integral aspect of drug development. Tremendous progress has been made in ensuring drug products are effective and safe for use in the intended pediatric population, but there remains a paucity of information to guide drug dosages in pediatric patients with obesity. This is concerning because obesity may influence the disposition of drug products. When pediatric patients with obesity are not enrolled in clinical trials, dosing options for use in this subpopulation may be suboptimal. Reliance on physiological-based dosing strategies that are not informed by evaluation of the pharmacokinetics of the drug product could lead to under- or over-dosing with ensuing therapeutic failure or toxicity consequences. Thus, representation of pediatric patients with obesity in clinical trials is crucial to understand the benefit-risk profile of drug products in this subpopulation. It is important to acknowledge that this is a challenging endeavor, but not one that is insurmountable. Collective efforts from multiple stakeholders including drug developers and regulators to enhance diversity in clinical trials can help fill critical gaps in knowledge related to the influence of obesity on drug disposition.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Obesity—Perioperative Controversies and Considerations)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessBrief Report
A Pilot Feasibility Study Assessing the Combined Effects of Early Behavioral Intervention and Propranolol on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Children 2023, 10(10), 1639; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101639 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder typified by differences in social communication as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors, is often responsive to early behavioral intervention. However, there is limited information on whether such intervention can be augmented with pharmacological approaches. We
[...] Read more.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder typified by differences in social communication as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors, is often responsive to early behavioral intervention. However, there is limited information on whether such intervention can be augmented with pharmacological approaches. We conducted a double-blinded, placebo-controlled feasibility trial to examine the effects of the β-adrenergic antagonist propranolol combined with early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) for children with ASD. Nine participants with ASD, ages three to ten, undergoing EIBI were enrolled and randomized to a 12-week course of propranolol or placebo. Blinded assessments were conducted at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. The primary outcome measures focusing on social interaction were the General Social Outcome Measure-2 (GSOM-2) and Social Responsiveness Scale—Second Edition (SRS-2). Five participants completed the 12-week visit. The sample size was insufficient to evaluate the treatment efficacy. However, side effects were infrequent, and participants were largely able to fully participate in the procedures. Conducting a larger clinical trial to investigate propranolol’s effects on core ASD features within the context of behavioral therapy will be beneficial, as this will advance and individualize combined therapeutic approaches to ASD intervention. This initial study helps to understand feasibility constraints on performing such a study.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews on Current Advances in Child Neurology Update)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Machine Learning Algorithms for Predicting Stunting among Under-Five Children in Papua New Guinea
Children 2023, 10(10), 1638; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101638 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Preventing stunting is particularly important for healthy development across the life course. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), the prevalence of stunting in children under five years old has consistently not improved. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to employ multiple machine
[...] Read more.
Preventing stunting is particularly important for healthy development across the life course. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), the prevalence of stunting in children under five years old has consistently not improved. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to employ multiple machine learning algorithms to identify the most effective model and key predictors for stunting prediction in children in PNG. The study used data from the 2016–2018 Papua New Guinea Demographic Health Survey, including from 3380 children with complete height-for-age data. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and random-forest-recursive feature elimination were used for feature selection. Logistic regression, a conditional decision tree, a support vector machine with a radial basis function kernel, and an extreme gradient boosting machine (XGBoost) were employed to construct the prediction model. The performance of the final model was evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and area under the curve (AUC). The results of the study showed that LASSO-XGBoost has the best performance for predicting stunting in PNG (AUC: 0.765; 95% CI: 0.714–0.819) with accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 scores of 0.728, 0.715, 0.628, and 0.669, respectively. Combined with the SHAP value method, the optimal prediction model identified living in the Highlands Region, the age of the child, being in the richest family, and having a larger or smaller birth size as the top five important characteristics for predicting stunting. Based on the model, the findings support the necessity of preventing stunting early in life. Emphasizing the nutritional status of vulnerable maternal and child populations in PNG is recommended to promote maternal and child health and overall well-being.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition to Improve Child and Adolescent Health)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessReview
A Narrative Review of the Association between Prematurity and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Accompanying Inequities across the Life-Course
by
, , , , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101637 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Preterm birth is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental and neurobehavioral impairments including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the most common neurobehavioral disorder of childhood. In this narrative review, we examine the known associations between prematurity and ADHD and highlight the impact of both
[...] Read more.
Preterm birth is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental and neurobehavioral impairments including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the most common neurobehavioral disorder of childhood. In this narrative review, we examine the known associations between prematurity and ADHD and highlight the impact of both prematurity and ADHD on multiple domains across the pediatric life-course. We develop a framework for understanding the health services journey of individuals with ADHD to access appropriate services and treatments for ADHD, the “ADHD Care Cascade”. We then discuss the many racial and ethnic inequities that affect the risk of preterm birth as well as the steps along the “ADHD Care Cascade”. By using a life-course approach, we highlight the ways in which inequities are layered over time to magnify the neurodevelopmental impact of preterm birth on the most vulnerable children across the life-course.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Implications of Preterm Birth for Health and Wellbeing over the Life Course)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Emirati Adolescents’ and Young Adults’ Usage of Social Media for Health Information
by
, , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1636; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101636 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
During the COVID-19 pandemic and in the years after, adolescents’ and young adults’ (AYAs) usage of social media increased. Social media has been shown to influence both the physical and mental behaviour of AYAs. The Emirates’ AYAs are among the world’s heaviest consumers
[...] Read more.
During the COVID-19 pandemic and in the years after, adolescents’ and young adults’ (AYAs) usage of social media increased. Social media has been shown to influence both the physical and mental behaviour of AYAs. The Emirates’ AYAs are among the world’s heaviest consumers of social media. This study aims to explore the usage of social media networks by AYAs for sharing and looking up health information, as well as interacting with local health systems, with a special focus on doctors and social media. This cross-sectional, descriptive study was used to collect comprehensive data from Arabic- and English-speaking Emirati students in grades 7 through 12 and university students between the months of December 2022 and April 2023. A total of 876 out of 930 responses were included. Of the responses, 27.71% were university students, with another 46.46% in grades 11 and 12. Three-fourths had a hospital or clinic visit in the last 6 months and 79.11% had good health perception. Smartphones were the most commonly used devices, at 92.12%. A total of 74.7% reported being able to obtain useful health information, with 40% having had a health decision influenced by it. Posting information on social media was not common, with only 32% posting such content (most commonly mood-related). Health information on social media by health authorities was considered the most trustworthy, with celebrities being the least trustworthy. More than half of AYAs searched for a physician before a visit, and the majority would not mind having a rash picture being posted on a public website if consent (verbal or written) was taken. Social media can influence the various health decisions an AYA might take and which doctors they might choose to see. Physicians should consider their presence and the content they present on social media carefully.
Full article

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Lactation Support as a Proxy Measure of Family-Centered Care Quality in Neonates with Life-Limiting Conditions—A Comparative Study
by
, , , , , , , , , and
Children 2023, 10(10), 1635; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101635 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Background: Lactation support is an important measure of Family-Centered Care (FCC) in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Life-limiting conditions (LLCs) raise complex ethical care issues for providers and parents in the NICU and represent a key and often overlooked population for whom
[...] Read more.
Background: Lactation support is an important measure of Family-Centered Care (FCC) in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Life-limiting conditions (LLCs) raise complex ethical care issues for providers and parents in the NICU and represent a key and often overlooked population for whom FCC is particularly important. We investigated healthcare disparities in FCC lactation support quality in infants with LLCs. Methods: A retrospective cohort of inborn infants with or without LLCs admitted to the NICU between 2015–2023 included 395 infants with 219 LLC infants and 176 matched non-LLC infants and were compared on LLC supports. Results: The LLC cohort experienced greater skin-to-skin support, but less lactation specialist visits, breast pumps provided, and human milk oral care use. LLC infants also experienced less maternal visitation, use of donor milk (LLC: 15.5%, non-LLC: 33.5%), and breastfeeds (LLC: 24.2%, non-LLC: 43.2%), with lower mean human milk provision (LLC: 36.6%, non-LLC: 67.1%). LLC infants who survived to discharge had similar human milk use as non-LLC infants (LLC: 49.8%, non-LLC: 50.6%). Conclusion: Lactation support was significantly absent for families and infants who presented with LLCs in the NICU, suggesting that policies can be altered to increase lactation support FCC quality for this population.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Neonatology)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessBrief Report
Can ChatGPT Guide Parents on Tympanostomy Tube Insertion?
Children 2023, 10(10), 1634; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101634 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Background: The emergence of ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI, has introduced a novel avenue for patients to seek medically related information. This technology holds significant promise in terms of accessibility and convenience. However, the use of ChatGPT as a source
[...] Read more.
Background: The emergence of ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI, has introduced a novel avenue for patients to seek medically related information. This technology holds significant promise in terms of accessibility and convenience. However, the use of ChatGPT as a source of accurate information enhancing patient education and engagement requires careful consideration. The objective of this study was to assess the accuracy and reliability of ChatGPT in providing information on the indications and management of complications post-tympanostomy, the most common pediatric procedure in otolaryngology. Methods: We prompted ChatGPT-3.5 with questions and compared its generated responses with the recommendations provided by the latest American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) “Clinical Practice Guideline: Tympanostomy Tubes in Children (Update)”. Results: A total of 23 responses were generated by ChatGPT against the AAO-HNSF guidelines. Following a thorough review, it was determined that 22/23 (95.7%) responses exhibited a high level of reliability and accuracy, closely aligning with the gold standard. Conclusion: Our research study indicates that ChatGPT may be of assistance to parents in search of information regarding tympanostomy tube insertion and its clinical implications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Surgery)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Child Attachment Representations and Parenting Stress in Mothers and Fathers of School-Age Children with a Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Cross-Sectional Study
Children 2023, 10(10), 1633; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101633 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Mothers and fathers of autistic children (ASD) tend to report elevated levels of parenting stress. Thus, it is critically important to understand which factors contribute to an imbalance between the perceived demands of parenting and the available psychological resources. To date, little is
[...] Read more.
Mothers and fathers of autistic children (ASD) tend to report elevated levels of parenting stress. Thus, it is critically important to understand which factors contribute to an imbalance between the perceived demands of parenting and the available psychological resources. To date, little is known about the association between child attachment representations and parenting stress. In this study, we first examined group differences in parenting stress levels based on child diagnosis and parents’ gender. Second, we explored the predictive role of child diagnosis, autism severity, and child attachment representations on parenting stress. The study involved 23 school-age children with ASD (IQ > 70), 27 without ASD (7–13 years), and their mothers (n = 50) and fathers (n = 50). Data were collected from 2017 to 2020. Parents completed the Social Responsiveness Scale 2 and the Parenting Stress Index—Short Form, while the children’s attachment representations were assessed using the School-age Assessment of Attachment. Parents of children with ASD reported higher stress compared with controls. No differences were found between mothers and fathers. Implicit attachment representations have been found to be associated with parenting stress only in mothers, while the severity of social impairment showed a significant effect on parenting stress in both parents. These findings revealed the potential benefit of adaptive attachment representations not only for children themselves but also for mothers and the family system, suggesting the bidirectional nature of parent–child relationships in the context of ASD. The uniqueness of maternal and paternal parenting experiences should be considered when parenting stress is addressed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Empowering Students against Ethnic Bullying: Review and Recommendations of Innovative School Programs
Children 2023, 10(10), 1632; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101632 - 30 Sep 2023
Abstract
Despite research on anti-bullying interventions, there is no systemic approach or resources for teachers to address ethnic and race-related bullying in schools. In this article, we selectively reviewed theories and programs to help teachers identify and address ethnic bullying in their classrooms. We
[...] Read more.
Despite research on anti-bullying interventions, there is no systemic approach or resources for teachers to address ethnic and race-related bullying in schools. In this article, we selectively reviewed theories and programs to help teachers identify and address ethnic bullying in their classrooms. We provide recommendations for workshops (e.g., cultural awareness training, empathy-building activities, bystander intervention, and stigma-based intervention). These anti-ethnic bullying workshops should promote understanding of different cultures, strengthen empathy for those who are different, encourage bystanders to take action, and reduce stigma and stereotypes. Through the sharing of diverse perspectives, expertise, and experiences, we hope this article can cultivate interactive dialogues and collaborations between educators and researchers to effectively address ethnic and race-related bullying.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue School Bullying during Childhood and Adolescence)

Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Children Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
- 10th Anniversary of Children
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Children, Dietetics, Foods, IJERPH, Nutrients
Nutrition Education, Food Literacy and Healthy Diets in Childhood and Adolescence
Topic Editors: Maha Hoteit, Reema Tayyem, Hassan YounesDeadline: 31 December 2023
Topic in
Children, Dentistry Journal, IJERPH, Nutrients, Oral
Oral Health Management for Children, Adolescents, and Adults, 2nd Volume
Topic Editors: Daisuke Ekuni, Hiroaki InabaDeadline: 1 February 2024
Topic in
Adolescents, Children, Healthcare, IJERPH, JCM, Nutrients, Behavioral Sciences, Social Sciences
Socio-Environmental Determinants of the Disparities in Health Behaviors among Minority Youth
Topic Editors: Ryan D. Burns, You FuDeadline: 29 February 2024
Topic in
Children, Education Sciences, Healthcare, Mathematics
Diversity, Educational Inclusion, Emotional Intelligence, Coping, and Other Factors That Influence Psychological Health and Well-Being
Topic Editors: Francisco Manuel Morales Rodríguez, Juan Pedro Martínez-RamónDeadline: 25 April 2024

Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Children
“Nothing about Me without Me”— Addressing, and Overcoming Current and Future Challenges in Paediatric Health Research by Involving All Actors
Guest Editors: Christina Tischer, Johanna KostenzerDeadline: 5 October 2023
Special Issue in
Children
Pediatric Intensive Care – Practice and Research
Guest Editors: Martin E.G. Blohm, Dominique SingerDeadline: 20 October 2023
Special Issue in
Children
Towards Children’s Healthy Growth: Improving Children’s Nutrition and Eating Behaviors
Guest Editors: Tzuan A. Chen, Jayna Markand DaveDeadline: 1 November 2023
Special Issue in
Children
Advances in Pediatric Neuromuscular Disorders
Guest Editors: Rohan Sharma, Aravindhan VeerapandiyanDeadline: 5 November 2023
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Children
Novel Treatments, Approaches, Prevention Strategies and Insights in Pediatric, Adolescent, and Gynecological Endocrinology
Collection Editors: Dimitrios Papadimitriou, Nicoletta Iacovidou, Nikos F. Vlahos, George Mastorakos
Topical Collection in
Children
Pediatric Palliative Care Update
Collection Editor: Regina Okhuysen-Cawley
Topical Collection in
Children
Pediatric Nursing in a Post-pandemic World
Collection Editor: Linda Franck