Healthcare

Background: Monitoring training load and recovery is essential for performance optimization and injury prevention in youth football. However, predicting subjective recovery in preadolescent athletes remains challenging due to biological variability and the multidimensional nature of training responses. This exploratory study examined whether supervised machine learning (ML) models could predict Total Quality of Recovery (TQR) using integrated external load, internal load, anthropometric and maturational variables collected over one competitive microcycle. Methods: Forty male sub-elite U11 and U13 football players (age 10.3 ± 0.7 years; height 1.43 ± 0.08 m; body mass 38.6 ± 6.2 kg; BMI 18.7 ± 2.1 kg/m²) completed a microcycle comprising four training sessions (MD-4 to MD-1) and one official match (MD). A total of 158 performance-related variables were extracted, including external load (GPS-derived metrics), internal load (RPE and sRPE), heart rate indicators (U13 only), anthropometric and maturational measures, and tactical–cognitive indices (FUT-SAT). After preprocessing and aggregation at the player level, five supervised ML algorithms—K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), and Gradient Boosting (GB)—were trained using a 70/30 train–test split and 5-fold cross-validation to classify TQR into Low, Moderate, and High categories. Results: Tree-based models (DT, GB) demonstrated the highest predictive performance, whereas linear and distance-based approaches (SVM, KNN) showed lower discriminative ability. Anthropometric and maturational factors emerged as the most influential predictors of TQR, with external and internal load contributing modestly. Predictive accuracy was moderate, reflecting the developmental variability characteristics of this age group. Conclusions: Using combined physiological, mechanical, and maturational data, these ML-based monitoring systems can simulate subjective recovery in young football players, offering potential as decision-support tools in youth sub-elite football and encouraging a more holistic and individualized approach to training and recovery management. Full article

Background/Objectives: The establishment of strong prenatal bonding is a key determinant of perinatal well-being, influencing maternal psychological adaptation and infant development. Numerous studies have examined risk factors and psychopathology during pregnancy, but limited research has explored the role of positive psychological constructs, such as positive mental health (PMH). This study aimed to assess whether anxiety mediates the relationship between PMH and the quality of prenatal bonding. Methods: A total of 90 pregnant women participated. PMH was assessed using the Abbreviated Positive Mental Health Questionnaire; anxiety using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; and prenatal bonding using the Prenatal Assessment Scale for Pregnant Women (EVAP). A simple mediation model was tested, with anxiety as a mediator between PMH (predictor) and prenatal bonding (outcome), controlling the analysis for previous miscarriages, relationship stability, high-risk pregnancy, and employment. Results: The model revealed partial mediation (F = 16.617, p < 0.001). Higher PMH was associated with lower anxiety (B = −0.297, SE = 0.062, p < 0.001) and stronger prenatal bonding (B = 0.777, SE = 0.091, p < 0.001). Interestingly, anxiety emerged as an adaptive response, which could improve maternal sensitivity and communication with the unborn child (B = 0.316, SE = 0.145, p = 0.032). The model explained 56% of the variance in prenatal bonding, even after accounting for relevant covariates. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of considering contextual and psychosocial factors when assessing the role of emotions such as anxiety during pregnancy. Rather than being inherently maladaptive, anxiety may play a functional role in facilitating maternal engagement with the baby, especially when grounded in PMH. Given the limited research, our findings support the integration of positive psychology frameworks into perinatal health interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigated the perceived impact of therapy dogs on speech therapy for children with communication disorders. Methods: Using an interpretive descriptive design, we gathered insights from both therapists and caregivers. Five Australian speech pathologists who incorporate therapy dogs into their practice participated in semi-structured interviews, and forty-two caregivers of children who received canine-assisted speech therapy completed online surveys. Results: Collectively, the responses revealed that therapy dogs helped children to establish rapport with the therapist, regulate their emotions and behaviours, engage with therapeutic tasks, be motivated to attend, use natural language, and improve social skills. The therapists reported personal and professional benefits, including enhanced job satisfaction and reduced stress, but highlighted the necessity of tailoring sessions to suit both the child and the dog, noting challenges in managing this dynamic. Conclusions: The study concluded that integrating therapy dogs into speech therapy is perceived to enhance therapeutic outcomes for children and improve therapist well-being. These findings offer valuable insights for incorporating therapy dogs into speech therapy practices, potentially improving the communication skills and quality of life of children with speech and language difficulties. Full article

Background/Objectives: In the healthcare sector, burnout has become a critical concern due to high job demands and emotional strain. The main objective of the study is to examine the predictive role of psychosocial work-related risks in the development of burnout. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, using a snowball recruitment method, from May to September 2025, among 154 healthcare workers. Data were collected using the psychosocial risk factors scale (INSAT_ERPS) and the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the predictive role of the psychosocial risk on burnout dimensions. Results: Psychosocial risk factors are consistently linked to the development of burnout symptoms. For exhaustion, the predictors included Working Hours (β = 0.312, p < 0.001), Social Work Relations (β = 0.196, p = 0.026), and Emotional Demands (β = 0.295, p = 0.002). For mental distance, the predictors included Work Intensity (β = −0.193, p = 0.049), Emotional Demands (β = 0.294, p = 0.004), and Work Values (β = 0.348, p = 0.003). For cognitive impairment, Work Values (β = 0.240, p = 0.042) and for emotional impairment, Employment Relations (β = 0.182, p = 0.038) emerged only one significant positive predictor. Conclusions: Findings underscore a crucial understanding: the development of burnout is not solely determined by the workload intensity, or the number of hours worked, the quality of working life and the dynamics within the workplace play pivotal roles in predicting burnout. A multidomain evaluation aligns with a holistic well-being approach to well-being by emphasizing that enhancing healthcare workers’ health demands systemic interventions addressing psychosocial work environment. Full article

Background: Ethical decision-making in medical care increasingly requires balancing clinical values, professional duties, and organizational reasoning. Understanding how healthcare professionals navigate moral dilemmas necessitates examining the philosophical orientations that shape their ethical judgments. Alongside traditional medical ethics, a business ethics perspective highlights organizational and managerial dimensions of healthcare, offering a more comprehensive understanding of ethical decision-making in modern clinical contexts. Aim: This study aims to examine how healthcare professionals reason about ethical dilemmas by mapping their moral orientations and decision-making patterns across five ethical frameworks-idealism, relativism, objectivism, legalism, and Machiavellianism-integrating both medical and business ethics perspectives. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 277 participants (medical doctors and students). Two validated instruments were used: the Attitudes Toward Business Ethics Questionnaire (ATBEQ) to assess moral orientations and the Clinical Ethical Dilemmas Questionnaire (Richeux & Duquéroy) to evaluate ethical decision patterns. Data were analyzed using correlation, multiple regression, and k-means cluster analyses. Results: Among the five orientations, Legalism negatively predicted “It depends” responses (i.e., higher Legalism scores were associated with fewer indecisive responses), indicating greater decisiveness in ethically ambiguous situations. Unexpected positive correlations were also found between traditionally opposing constructs-such as Ethical Relativism and Moral Objectivism-suggesting moral pluralism. The overall regression model was not statistically significant (R² = 0.04, p = 0.08). Cluster analysis identified four distinct ethical reasoning profiles: High Machiavellian Idealists, Pragmatic Relativists, Context-Sensitive Objectivists, and Ethical Purists. Conclusions: Abstract philosophical orientations showed limited predictive power for contextual ethical decision-making, highlighting the complex and multidimensional nature of moral reasoning in healthcare. Findings inform the design of context-sensitive ethics education programs that integrate philosophical reflection with case-based learning to strengthen ethical competence among medical professionals. Full article

Background: Many biological drugs have a rival version produced from different cell lines by other manufacturers; these drugs are referred to as biosimilars. By providing accurate information, encouraging patient and medical community acceptance, and advocating for their appropriate usage, pharmacists can play a crucial role in supporting the uptake of biosimilar medicines. Aim: This study aimed to assess pharmacists’ knowledge and attitudes toward biosimilar medicines in the Aseer region in Saudi Arabia. Methods: The study employed a descriptive, cross-sectional design using an anonymous online self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed by adapting a previously validated instrument and consisted of three sections: demographic data, knowledge about biosimilars, and attitudes toward biosimilars. Two non-probability sampling approaches, i.e., convenience and snowball sampling, were using for data collection. Results: A total of 298 pharmacists participated in the current study. Overall, a total of 135 (45.3%) demonstrated good knowledge of biosimilar medicines, while 163 (54.7%) exhibited poor knowledge. The median knowledge score among the study participants was 5 (5–6). Only 26.2% of pharmacists in the current study correctly identified that biosimilars were not generics and not interchangeable with reference biologics. More experienced pharmacists and those working in industry-related sectors demonstrated greater knowledge of biosimilars (p < 0.05). Pharmacists in the current study demonstrated generally favorable attitudes toward biosimilar medicines. Conclusions: The current study revealed knowledge gaps regarding biosimilar medicines among pharmacists. Targeted educational initiatives, continuing professional development opportunities, and enhanced curricular content could be implemented to address these gaps. Full article

Background: CrossFit could be an innovative alternative for older adults. Traditional strength training is well-established for safety and progressive overload, while concerns exist about overexertion or poor technique in modified CrossFit, especially for those with musculoskeletal or cardiovascular conditions. However, scaled and supervised CrossFit sessions have shown low injury rates and high satisfaction among older adults. Objective: to evaluate the effects of a CrossFit-adapted program on balance and muscular power. Methods: 60 older adults participated in the study. Participants were randomized into two groups: CrossFit-adapted and control. Functional capacity, balance and strength variables were analyzed. The sample size was calculated a priori using G*Power 3.1 software, considering an effect size of 0.25 [medium], α = 0.05, and a power [1–β] of 0.80 for a repeated-measures ANOVA with two groups and three measurement points. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics version 25. Results: Significant improvements in balance scores were observed in the CrossFit group compared to the control group. In the Timed Up and Go test, the CrossFit group improved from 9.83 ± 1.3 s to 8.74 ± 1.1 s, [p = 0.002]. Lower limb muscle power increased significantly in CrossFit group across all tests: chair stand test, the stair ascent and stair descent [p < 0.001]. Conclusions: A CrossFit-adapted program can significantly improve functional capacity, balance, and strength in older adults. Full article

Background/Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and even closely related metabolic and anthropometric alterations require timely intervention to reduce associated risks. Neo-Policaptil^® Gel Retard has shown potential in managing both established MetS and early imbalances. To further characterize its real-world impact, a large post-marketing survey was conducted to assess perceived effectiveness, safety, quality of life (QoL), and patterns of use. Methods: Between December 2021 and May 2025, patients/child caregivers, pharmacists, and physicians completed online questionnaires via a dedicated web platform. Patients reported their direct experience, while healthcare professionals (HCPs) provided observations on patient use. Results: The survey included 2204 patients, 57 child caregivers, 455 physicians, and 387 pharmacists. Overall, 97.7% of patients reported an improvement in their condition. Most physicians (94.3%) and pharmacists (89.1%) rated the overall effectiveness of the product as “good” or “excellent”. The safety profile was judged “good” or “excellent” by 84.4% of patients and by over 93% of HCPs. The product was mainly used as monotherapy or in combination with dietary measures and/or physical exercise. Conclusions: These findings underscore the product’s effectiveness, safety, tolerability, and positive influence on QoL in both adults and children affected by MetS or by related metabolic and anthropometric imbalances. Full article

Objective: The Italian Drug Agency (AIFA) Determination n. 589 of 2015 (Note 79) establishes that the use of bisphosphonates or denosumab is necessary for the primary prevention of bone fractures in postmenopausal patients with early breast cancer (EBC) undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET). Since adherence to the 2015 AIFA recommendation was still very low in 2019, a new bone health management model was identified to improve adherence to this recommendation. Methods: The aim of this project (Predict & Prevent) was to increase the percentage of patients with early breast cancer (EBC) with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) tumors treated. The project identified a new bone health model of management including the following: training of breast multidisciplinary teams and bone health specialists; presentation and implementation of this model in cancer centers; evaluation, at baseline and 12 months after the implementation of the project, of two key performance indicators (KPIs): rate of HR+ EBC patients assessed for bone health within 30 days from the start of adjuvant ET (KPI-1) and rate of HR+ breast cancer patients receiving bisphosphonates or denosumab within 90 days from the start of adjuvant ET (KPI-2). The primary endpoints of this study were the assessment of the rates of the two key performance indicators (KPIs) 12 months after the start of the project (T3) in comparison with the rates recorded at time 0 (T0) in each participating cancer center and the bone fracture rates at 5 years. In this first analysis, we reported the rates of two KPIs 12 months after the start of the new model (T3) and the comparison with the rates recorded at time 0 (T0) in each participating cancer center, to assess whether these percentages had increased after the implementation of the new organizational model. The rates of bone fractures will be evaluated after five years from implementation of this project in every cancer center. Results: From 2020 to 2022, 10 Italian cancer centers were involved in this project. As of September 2023, 9 cancer centers reported rates relative to two KPIs assessed in each hospital. In 6 hospitals (Negrar, Brescia, Bergamo, Aviano, Turin, Rome), the rates relative to KPI-1 and to KPI-2 increased progressively from time T0 (at baseline) to time T3 (after 12 months from the start of the project), due to training of multidisciplinary teams and implementation of a new bone health management model. In the other three cancer centers (Ancona, Genoa, Naples), where the rate of evaluation of bone health (KPI-1) and the indication for bisphosphonates/denosumab (KPI-2) in HR+ EBC patients were already high at time T0, the rates remained high even after 12 months from the start of this project. Conclusions: After 12 months from the implementation of this new organizational model of bone health management, an increase in the rate of postmenopausal HR+ EBC patients on adjuvant ET assessed for bone health and the rate of patients treated with bisphosphonate/denosumab were reported in six out of nine cancer centers. In the other three cancer centers, where the rates were high at baseline, the rates also remained high after 12 months from the new model implementation. This new model should be adopted in all cancer centers to allow adequate management of bone health in all postmenopausal HR+ EBC patients undergoing adjuvant ET, with the ultimate goal of reducing the rate of bone fractures in these patients in subsequent years. Full article

Background and Objectives: Osteoporosis risk in real-world, outpatient settings is shaped by intersecting socio-demographic, environmental, and clinical factors. We evaluated predictors of fracture risk status among adults seeking care in community pharmacies in Lahore, Pakistan. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study across urban and suburban pharmacies using a validated questionnaire aligned with international guidelines. Participants were classified as lower risk (osteopenia/osteoporosis without fragility fracture) or high risk (≥1 fragility fracture with clinical osteoporosis). Associations between candidate factors and risk status were examined using univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: Of 286 participants, 53.1% were classified as lower risk. After adjustment, most sociodemographic characteristics were not independently associated with fracture risk status, except monthly income. Strong associations were observed for diabetes (AOR = 0.005, 95% CI 0.0007–0.040; p < 0.001), short-term glucocorticoid use (AOR = 32.33; p = 0.004), current smoking (AOR = 14.23; p = 0.002), ex-smoking (AOR = 4.95; p = 0.042), and lack of sunlight exposure (AOR = 7.09; p = 0.019). CKD, rheumatoid arthritis, and vitamin D insufficiency demonstrated borderline non-significant trends. Multivariable modeling did not include “not tested” categories or sparse variables. Conclusions: In Lahore’s community pharmacies, diabetes, CKD, RA, glucocorticoid exposure, smoking, and sunlight/vitamin D-related factors were the dominant correlates of osteoporosis fracture risk status, whereas most socio-demographic factors exerted limited independent effects. Pharmacy-anchored screening and counseling focused on these high-yield clinical indicators alongside timely BMD referral and guideline-concordant therapy may help identify individuals at elevated fracture risk. Full article

Objective: This study aimed to identify caregivers’ perceptions, preferences, and intentions regarding the use of digital articulation therapy applications for children with DLD. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between August and September 2025 among 197 caregivers of children diagnosed with DLD. A 43-item questionnaire was structured into five domains addressing demographics, therapy experience, digital-therapy exposure, and preferences for application-based articulation therapy. Constructs from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2, including performance expectancy (PE), social influence (SI), price value (PV), facilitating conditions (FC), and behavioral intention, were analyzed. Results: Most respondents were mothers (96%), and 78.7% of them resided in urban areas. Among them, 84.3% had prior speech therapy experience. Only 15.7% had used educational or therapeutic applications; the main dissatisfaction factors were lack of fun (51.6%) and feedback (19.3%). Caregivers preferred short, engaging sessions (20–40 min per day), video-based (75%) or game-based (64%) content, and feedback every 2 months, with a reasonable monthly cost (20,000–30,000 KRW). Regression analysis revealed that sex (β = −0.451, p = 0.013), PE (β = 0.381, p < 0.001), and PV (β = 0.212, p = 0.034) significantly associated with behavioral intention to use an articulation-therapy application, whereas SI and FC were not significant. Conclusions: Caregivers of children with DLD demonstrated strong willingness to adopt digital articulation therapy applications, particularly when these tools provide meaningful therapeutic outcomes at moderate cost and include motivating, interactive content. Future application design should prioritize treatment functionality, user engagement, and accessibility to enhance adoption and continuity of digital speech-language interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Thirdhand smoke (THS), residual tobacco pollutants persisting on surfaces, dust, and fabrics, poses specific risks to infants and children, yet its implications for nursing remain underexplored. This scoping review mapped existing evidence on THS in neonatal and pediatric contexts and synthesized nursing implications, focusing on nurses’ knowledge, unintentional environmental contamination, and educational roles. Methods: Following JBI methodology and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a three-step search was performed across MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and OpenGrey. Studies were included if they addressed (1) nurses’ knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes toward THS-related risks in infants and children; (2) nurses’ contribution to unintentional environmental THS contamination; or (3) nurse-led educational or preventive interventions targeting parents or communities. Results: Among 563 records, 8 met inclusion criteria. Four investigated nurses’ awareness and perceptions, revealing limited understanding of THS despite recognition of its harmfulness. One study examined contamination, detecting nicotine residues on nurses’ fingers, suggesting possible in-hospital transmission. No nurse-led interventions specifically targeting THS were found, though broader smoke-exposure education programs showed benefits when supported by nursing staff. Conclusions: Evidence is scarce but underscores significant gaps in nurses’ knowledge, clinical guidance, and educational initiatives concerning THS. Strengthening nursing education and research is essential to mitigate THS exposure in neonatal and pediatric settings and enhance nurses’ preventive and advocacy roles. Full article

Background/Objectives: Community health workers (CHWs) play a critical role in advancing health equity by bridging gaps in care for underserved populations. However, limited institutional support, inconsistent training, and lack of integration contribute to high rates of burnout. The Lunch and Learn program was launched in Maryland in fall 2023 as a virtual continuing education and peer-support initiative designed to foster professional development, enhance connections among CHWs, and align with Maryland state CHW certification requirements. This article describes the program’s first year of implementation as a proof-of-concept and model for scalable CHW workforce support. Methods: The program offered twice-monthly, one-hour virtual sessions that included expert-led presentations, Q&A discussions, and dedicated peer-support time. Participant engagement was assessed using attendance metrics, post-session surveys, and annual feedback forms to identify trends in participation, learning outcomes, and evolving professional priorities. Results: Participation increased over time with the program’s listserv expanding from 29 to 118 members and average session attendance more than doubling. CHWs highlighted the program’s value in meeting both educational and emotional support needs. Conclusions: The Lunch and Learn program demonstrates a promising model for addressing burnout through education and community connection. As an adaptable, CHW-informed initiative, it supports both professional growth and well-being. Ongoing development will focus on expanding access, incorporating experiential learning assessments, and advocating for sustainable funding to ensure long-term program impact and CHW workforce stability. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases continue to be the foremost global cause of morbidity and mortality, representing about 40% of all causes of death. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the most common and clinically important type of these, occurring when cholesterol accumulates over time in the artery intima, which induces an inflammatory process that leads to the production of atherosclerotic plaques. Nowadays, lipid profile alterations and high/very high cardiovascular risk can be observed in more and more patients. Combination therapy, which includes high-intensity statins, ezetimibe, bempedoic acid, and PCSK9-targeted medicines, can lower LDL-C by more than 80%, which is far more than the 50% that statin monotherapy usually achieves. Thus, novel lipid-lowering therapies are needed, as current agents—though effective in reducing cardiovascular events—leave considerable residual risk in many patients. Methods: The aim of our study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of Inclisiran and its association with standard of care for the prevention of cardiovascular events across multiple international settings, in articles that reported quality-adjusted life years gained and cost-effectiveness metrics. Results: Our findings suggest that the cost-effectiveness of Inclisiran is highly context-dependent, shaped by local pricing, population risk, and system-level capacity. While Inclisiran demonstrates potential economic value in high-income settings or among high-risk patients, its widespread adoption for primary prevention appears unjustified under current conditions. Conclusions: Policymakers should consider risk-based targeting, price renegotiation, and performance-based reimbursement models to improve the value proposition of such interventions. Full article

This narrative review explores how specialised clinical competencies and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies converge in the context of perioperative care, with a focus on their combined potential to improve patient safety. Considering the growing complexity of surgical care and rising demands on healthcare professionals, the study aims to understand how human expertise and digital tools can complement each other in this high-stakes environment. Methods: A narrative review methodology was adopted to integrate insights from diverse sources, including empirical studies, policy documents, and expert analyses published over the last decade. Findings reveal that AI can support clinical decision-making, streamline workflows, and enable earlier identification of complications across all perioperative phases. These technologies enhance, rather than replace, the roles of nurses, anesthetists, and surgeons. However, their effective use depends on critical factors such as digital literacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical awareness. Issues related to data privacy, algorithmic bias, and unequal access to technology highlight the need for thoughtful, inclusive implementation. The future of perioperative care will likely depend on hybrid models where human judgment and AI-based tools are integrated in ways that uphold safety, equity, and person-centred values. Full article

Background/Objectives: The mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ) is a validated instrument specifically designed to evaluate the usability of mobile health applications. The aim of this cross-sectional study, was to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Greek version of the MAUQ. Methods: The 21-item mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (patient, interactive version) was forward- and back-translated from English into Greek, following scientific guidelines for translation and cross-cultural adaptation. Exploratory factor analysis was carried out to evaluate construct validity, disclose underlying structures and reduce the number of variables in MAUQ. Principal component analysis (PCA) was chosen as extraction method using Varimax rotation. Results: The study sample included 385 participants, of whom 66.0% were women, with a mean age of 42.2 years (SD = 14.0). The factor analysis yielded three components that together accounted for 67.8% of the total variance. The “system information arrangement” factor comprised six items and explained 24.9% of the variance. The “usefulness” factor contained seven items and contributed 23.7%, while the “ease of use and satisfaction” factor included eight items and accounted for 19.2%. All items showed satisfactory corrected item–total correlations, exceeding 0.30. Cronbach’s alpha values were 0.92 for “ease of use and satisfaction,” 0.89 for “system information arrangement,” and 0.92 for “usefulness,” demonstrating strong reliability for each subscale. Overall, total’s scale reliability was a = 0.93. Conclusions: The Greek version of the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (GR-MAUQ), demonstrated strong psychometric properties and confirm its suitability for assessing the usability of mHealth applications among Greek-speaking users. Full article

Background: Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition and immunological protection, offering critical benefits for infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) and their mothers. This study aims to determine the prevalence of breastfeeding practices and identify common obstacles among mothers with and without CHD whose children are diagnosed with CHD. Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed breastfeeding prevalence and obstacles among mothers with and without congenital heart disease (CHD) whose children were also diagnosed with CHD. Data were collected from January to August 2025 across tertiary hospitals and pediatric cardiology units in Saudi Arabia. A validated bilingual questionnaire (Cronbach’s α = 0.816) captured maternal, infant, and breastfeeding-related factors. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and odds ratios were applied, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 419 mothers of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) participated. Maternal CHD was reported in 15.8% of participants and was significantly associated with older maternal age, family history of CHD, low birth weight, and the presence of other chronic diseases (p < 0.05). Ventricular septal defect (VSD) and mitral stenosis were more frequent among children of CHD mothers. Breastfeeding initiation (≈91%) and duration did not differ significantly between CHD and non-CHD mothers. Interestingly, CHD mothers reported fewer breastfeeding obstacles (27.3% vs. 43.1%, p = 0.04) and were less likely to cite fatigue or pain as reasons for discontinuation. Conclusions: This study provides novel insights into breastfeeding practices and maternal child health characteristics among mothers and infants affected by CHD in Saudi Arabia. The current study findings revealed that maternal CHD was significantly associated with advanced maternal age, family history, low birth weight, and coexisting chronic conditions, highlighting important genetic and perinatal risk factors. Despite these health burdens, breastfeeding initiation and duration did not significantly differ between CHD and non-CHD mothers, suggesting that maternal CHD alone does not hinder breastfeeding success. Full article

Introduction: Odontogenic infections may influence distant structures, including the eye. Their extension into the paranasal sinuses and orbital region can contribute to inflammatory and glaucomatous conditions. Case Report: A 46-year-old man was examined for a possible odontogenic source of chronic eye disease. The patient had an 18-year history of progressive vision loss in his left eye associated with Posner–Schlossmann syndrome, chronic uveitis, and episodic elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). Imaging studies revealed the presence of a foreign body in the alveolar recess of the left maxillary sinus, as detected on panoramic radiography, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and infrared thermography (IRT). Preliminary IRT examination showed marked thermal asymmetry (ΔT = 1.1 °C) between the left and right sides of the maxilla. Worsening of ocular symptoms and increased IOP despite steroid treatment prompted surgical treatment. The foreign body, identified as a root canal filling, was removed, and the chronically inflamed sinus mucosa was excised. During a follow-up visit two weeks later, the IRT examination showed a reduction in temperature difference (ΔT = 0.2 °C) and routine postoperative healing. After two months, no thermal asymmetry was found (ΔT = 0 °C), and an ophthalmological examination showed no active inflammation. Six months after the procedure, the patient remained asymptomatic, and the IRT examination revealed only minimal residual variability within the measurement tolerance (ΔT = 0.1 °C), consistent with the resolution of the sinus inflammation. Conclusions: This case highlights the value of interdisciplinary diagnostics in identifying odontogenic contributors to chronic ocular disease. Infrared thermography proved to be a helpful non-invasive adjunct for detecting and monitoring subclinical maxillary sinus inflammation. Full article