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We are thrilled to share the updated Exceptional Reviewers List 2025. This program was designed to recognize and honor scholars who have delivered consistently exceptional review reports to our journal. Committed to fostering rigorous research and promoting knowledge exchange, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH, ISSN: 1660-4601) recognizes the significant role our reviewers play in maintaining the quality and integrity of the articles we publish. According to surveys conducted in 2024, 92% of our authors rate the peer review as good or excellent, thanks to our pool of excellent reviewers.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all the reviewers who have generously volunteered their time and expertise to assist in IJERPH’s peer-review process. Their dedication and attention to detail in evaluating manuscripts, offering valuable feedback, and contributing to academic rigor are truly commendable.

The Exceptional Reviewers List was introduced in April 2025. Each quarter, we will be selecting a group of outstanding reviewers and will introduce them here.

Q1
Name: Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad
Affiliation: Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
“I want to keep reviewing for IJERPH; it's an incredible platform that provides me with a great chance to engage with outstanding research worldwide while also serving as a wonderful learning opportunity.”

Name: Dr. Jia Sun
Affiliation: SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, New York, NY, USA
“Reviewing for IJERPH is a rewarding way to support rigorous science, stay current with emerging research, and contribute to advancing public and environmental health knowledge.”

Name: Dr. Florence Mei Fung Wong
Affiliation: Tung Wah College, Homantin, Hong Kong

Name: Cameron Davidson
Affiliation: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI, USA

Name: Dr. Eric Schussler
Affiliation: Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA

Name: Felipe Alckmin-Carvalho
Affiliation: University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal

Q2
Name: Dr. Jessica L. Elf
Affiliation: Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA

Name: Dr. Denise Dillon
Affiliation: James Cook University (Singapore), Singapore City, Singapore

Name: Danielle Hicks
Affiliation: Wayne State University, Detroit, USA

Name: Dr. Yang Wu
Affiliation: Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China

Name: Dr. Wells Utembe
Affiliation: National Centre for Occupational Health, Johannesburg, South Africa  

Name: Prof. Dr. Stephen H. Linder
Affiliation: Institute for Health Policy, Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, USA
Interests: health policy; environmental policy; cumulative risk; community-based environmental assessment; policy design

The following is a short interview with Prof. Dr. Stephen H. Linder:

1. Could you give us a brief introduction about yourself and your current research topic to our readers?
I am a professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston at their School of Public Health, also known as UT Health Houston School of Public Health, and I’ve been here since the 80s. It’s been an exciting and gratifying place to work, especially through the COVID-19 years. More recently, it’s been an engaging time for a researcher to be able to contribute to public health by directly working through and with local authorities for technical assistance and data analysis. The work I do is in the Department of Management Policy and Community Health. I teach courses on research methodology, ethics, and policy, and include a policy emphasis in all of my teaching. Much of the work I do is with my graduate students. We prepare them for positions in nonprofit and governmental organizations that focus on public health or are related in some way to the helping professions. We prepare them for academic careers, as well as commercial careers in the health sector more generally.

2. As a reviewer, how do you balance the encouragement of research innovation with the strict requirements for method reliability? Can you give an example?
I spend a lot of time trying to craft comments that include constructive suggestions rather than limitations. In fact, I rarely talk about limitations directly unless it’s coupled with what I think a remedy would be, and offer that to the authors. They are in the more exposed position, having their work peer-reviewed.

I have had my peer-reviewed work come back needing remediation, and I know how the process works after a number of years.  So I really try to cultivate a positive kind of orientation in the reviews and offer as constructive a set of suggestions as I can make. Usually, I number them so they’re clear and have no run-on narratives. I like to give them what’s basically a checklist of things they need to attend to in their next round.

3. In addition to "error correction", what unique value do you think excellent peer review can provide to the academic community?
Generally, in the areas that I cover, two potential weaknesses may need strengthening in manuscripts. One is that they may have difficulty with the logic, because they’ve tried to fit too much in, and so there is a drift away from the central issues. Being very careful with the logic and sequence in the discussion, and how it is presented as an argument are critical features that I look for first. Besides the logic, other patterns that I see in need of critical assessment are details in reporting that have been overlooked or omitted.

Typically, then, my reviews will have two kinds of comments: One comment is about the logic and addressing a core set of claims, trimming away the unnecessary information, and focusing on the paper’s main argument. The second set of claims will have to do with areas where more information is needed, such as when something was underreported. Whether it’s a justification for a particular method, the selection of a variable, or the creation of an indicator—we need to know about that process and the reasons behind it.  By and large, the revisions requested will be of those two kinds.

4. For submissions from non-English speaking researchers, what factors that may affect the quality of scientific expression will you pay special attention to?
There are a few things I’ve noticed. I review a lot of manuscripts from Chinese investigators, and translation into English may be difficult. This can include the use, or coining, of new expressions that don’t have a direct parallel in English. Maybe a technical term will have an ending added to it in translation. Although it’s not a proper English word, it expresses something important not to miss. I try to figure out what that is and then suggest word substitutes that might be made with only a minor correction.

The other practice that I see is the omission of definite/indefinite articles and prepositions which help make English flow. I’ll find some nouns and verbs that have no linkage, or no prepositions, etc. However,  these can usually be deciphered, so the authors can have some suggestions.

I haven’t found that either of these minor translation imperfections impinge on the scientific quality of the research. That would usually be a function of other kinds of factors, such as research design, the data used as evidence, and the questions that they’re trying to answer. I haven’t had a problem with any of the submissions that have come in more recently. The exception is when the manuscript doesn’t meet the threshold for publication or revision. Those are generally pieces that represent research fragments that can’t stand on their own. Either it is an incomplete treatment of data, or the data themselves are just inadequate for the kinds of questions that are being asked. Those generally get rejected out of hand. But, it is not so much the quality as it is the fragmentary nature of the piece that leads to an outright rejection.

5. In your research career, is there an experience in which the review opinions promoted research breakthroughs?
I can think of at least two kinds of suggestions that were made. One was a framing suggestion. I hadn’t made the association with another field of research that was highly relevant and the suggestion of reframing made a significant difference.

I have also had suggestions regarding references that were in a related field that I was unaware of that made a difference in the direction that I pursued. Both of those had a positive impact on my research.

Throughout the first quarter of 2025, research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH, ISSN: 1660-4601) was featured over 167 times in news articles published by reputable media sources, such as U.S. News, New York Post, National Geographic, Forbes, and BBC News.

Learn more about this research below.

“”Children are attracted to fast-paced, stimulating violent content, which often features appealing characters like superheroes who commit and are rewarded for aggressive acts, thus increasing the likelihood of exposure”, the researchers wrote in their paper, which appears in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.”
U.S. News—“TV Violence Linked To Aggression In Teenage Boys”
IJERPH—“Prospective Associations Between Preschool Exposure to Violent Televiewing and Externalizing Behavior in Middle Adolescent Boys and Girls“
Article link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/1/129

“Focusing on the hip flexors is crucial to maintaining mobility in our golden years. A 2021 analysis found that stretching and strengthening the hip flexors positively affects the joints, ligaments and muscles around the hip, improving balance and reducing lower back pain.”
New York Post—“These 4 simple movements can help with hip pain, according to a physical therapist.”
IJERPH—“The Influence of Stretching the Hip Flexor Muscles on Performance Parameters. A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis”
Article link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/4/1936

“All cooking involves heat that generates a large amount of indoor pollutants. Gas stoves are especially problematic, because they release nitrogen dioxide and formaldehyde that affect a person’s airways. Nearly 13 percent of childhood asthma cases in the U.S. have been linked to gas stoves; in some states, like Illinois and California, the figure is closer to 20 percent. ”
National Geographic—“Winter brings more air pollution inside. Here’s how to minimize your risks”
IJERPH—“Population Attributable Fraction of Gas Stoves and Childhood Asthma in the United States”
Article link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/20/1/75

“A 2022 review found that prolonged stress and burnout significantly increase anxiety and depression, with burnout rates reaching 74% in high-pressure environments. While focused on teachers, the study reflects a larger issue—the relentless pressure to keep up takes a toll on mental and physical health. At its core, time sickness is the overwhelming sense that life is slipping away in a race you can never win.”
Forbes—“3 Ways To Fight ‘Time Sickness’—By A Psychologist”
IJERPH—“Stress, Burnout, Anxiety and Depression among Teachers: A Scoping Review”
Article link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/17/10706

“Yoga therapy, she says, can help PTSD sufferers to tolerate the physical or sensory experiences associated with their trauma. Giving people the means to control their symptoms in this way, say experts, indicates yoga has an "important role to play in the field of trauma recovery". Yoga is often used in tandem with other types of treatment. Just one of a list of complementary interventions – such as acupuncture, guided imagery and hypnotherapy – yoga can offer a second-line treatment option.”
BBC News—“The mind-altering power of yoga could improve your mental health”
IJERPH—“A Rapid Review Exploring the Role of Yoga in Healing Psychological Trauma”
Article link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/23/16180

Name: Dr. Antonio Gattamelata
Affiliations: ¹ Escuela de Doctorado en Psicología, Universidad de Jaén, Campus Las Lagunillas s/n, 23071 Jaén, Spain;
² Department of Psychology, Universidad de Jaén, Campus Las Lagunillas s/n, Ed.C5, 23071 Jaén, Spain
Interests: social psychology, sexology, reproductive health, intercultural communication psychology, analytical psychology

“Factor Structure and Psychometric Properties of the Italian Version of the Childbearing Motivations Scale”
by Antonio Gattamelata, Maria Elisabetta Coccia, Giulia Fioravanti, Vanessa Prisca Zurkirch and Nieves Moyano
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(2), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22020186
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/2/186

The following is a short interview with Dr. Antonio Gattamelata:

1. Congratulations on your published paper! Could you give us a brief introduction about yourself and your current research?
My name is Antonio Gattamelata, and I am a licensed psychologist with a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Florence. I have a postgraduate specialization in sexology and reproductive health, focusing on psychological aspects related to assisted reproductive technology. Currently, I am pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Jaén, Spain, under the supervision of Prof. Nieves Moyano.

My research project, titled “Risk and Protection Factors in Psychological and Sexual Health During Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Treatment”, explores various psychological and sexual health factors in individuals and couples undergoing ART treatment. This includes examining risk and protective elements, motivations, psychological distress, and dyadic adjustments during the ART process. Beyond my academic work, I have been actively involved in counseling and research projects that aim to support individuals undergoing assisted reproductive treatments. By integrating psychological assessment tools into clinical settings, I hope to enhance reproductive counseling services and contribute to a better understanding of the emotional and relational dynamics in ART patients. My research has important implications for both clinical practice and public health, particularly in addressing the psychological and sexual well-being of individuals by navigating fertility challenges.

2. Could you describe the difficulties and breakthrough innovations in this research field?
One of the most significant challenges in this field is the stigma surrounding infertility, which makes it difficult for researchers to gather reliable data through interviews and surveys. Many individuals and couples feel reluctant to discuss their reproductive choices, especially when facing fertility issues. In our study, we conducted extensive interviews at the University Hospital of Careggi in Florence, where we encountered a wide range of social and economic factors influencing reproductive decisions.

A major difficulty was addressing the complex relationship between traditional family values, evolving social expectations, and financial constraints. Italy, like many other Southern European countries, has one of the lowest birth rates in Europe. Economic instability and job insecurity make it difficult for younger generations to consider parenthood, leading to a decline in fertility rates.

One of the most innovative aspects of our study was the comprehensive validation of both positive and negative childbearing motivations. Previous research often focused primarily on the desire to have children, overlooking the significant impact of concerns such as financial stability, career aspirations, and personal fulfillment. By using a large sample size of 522 participants and employing advanced statistical methodologies, we were able to develop a more nuanced understanding of reproductive decision-making.

Our findings provide policymakers and clinicians with a validated psychological scale that can be used to assess childbearing motivations in the Italian context. This tool will be instrumental in shaping future interventions aimed at supporting individuals and couples in making informed reproductive choices.

3. What motivated you to conduct this research?
My motivation stemmed from the lack of comprehensive tools available to measure childbearing motivations in Italy. Despite the country’s persistently low fertility rate, there was a surprising gap in research addressing the psychological and socio-economic factors influencing reproductive choices.

During my academic training, I realized that existing studies often failed to capture the full complexity of reproductive decision-making. Many focused solely on demographic trends or economic factors, without considering the psychological and emotional aspects that drive individuals to have—or not have—children.

By developing a culturally adapted and scientifically validated scale, I hoped to contribute to a deeper understanding of fertility motivations and provide valuable insights for both researchers and policymakers. My goal is to bridge the gap between psychological research and public policy to help address Italy’s demographic challenges more effectively.

4. How do you evaluate research trends in this field, and what advice would you give to young researchers?
The field of reproductive psychology is rapidly evolving, with increasing attention being given to the intersection of psychological well-being and demographic trends. More researchers are beginning to recognize the importance of integrating psychological, social, and economic factors in fertility studies.

One key trend is the growing emphasis on culturally sensitive measurement tools. Many psychological assessments are developed in one country and applied universally, often without considering cultural differences. Our research highlights the importance of adapting these tools to reflect the specific social and economic conditions of different populations.

For young researchers, my advice would be:

• Use culturally sensitive measurement tools—Ensure that your research instruments are tailored to the specific context in which you are working;
• Consider both positive and negative motivations—Many studies focus only on why people want children, but understanding the reasons people choose not to have children is equally important;
• Take an interdisciplinary approach—Integrating psychology with anthropology, sociology, and economics can provide a more holistic understanding of reproductive choices;
• Conduct longitudinal studies—While cross-sectional studies provide valuable insights, following individuals over time can help identify trends and changes in fertility motivations;
• Ensure practical applications—Research should not only contribute to academic knowledge but also have real-world implications for policymakers, clinicians, and support services.

5. How was your publishing experience with IJERPH?
Publishing with IJERPH was a highly positive experience. The journal’s digital infrastructure is efficient, and the submission system is user-friendly. The peer-review process was both constructive and fast, providing us with valuable feedback that significantly improved our paper.

One aspect that stood out was the high level of professionalism demonstrated by the editorial team. Communication was clear throughout the review process, and we were provided with realistic timelines for each stage of publication. Additionally, the journal’s emphasis on methodological transparency and data availability aligned with our research objectives, ensuring that our findings met international research benchmarks.

Overall, IJERPH provided an excellent balance of academic rigor and author support, making it an ideal journal for researchers in our field.

Name: Prof. Dr. Delia Grace Randolph
Affiliations: ¹ Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Medway ME4 4TB, UK;
² International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
Interests: food safety in informal markets in low- and middle-income countries

“Biological Hazards and Indicators Found in Products of Animal Origin in Cambodia from 2000 to 2022: A Systematic Review”
by Shwe Phue San, Rortana Chea, Delia Grace, Kristina Roesel, Sothyra Tum, Stephen Young, Tumnoon Charaslertrangsi, Nazanin Zand, Shetty Seetharama Thombathu, Ra Thorng, Leab Kong, Kuok Fidero and Linda Nicolaides
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(12), 1621; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21121621
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/21/12/1621

The following is a short with Prof. Dr. Delia Grace Randolph:

1. Could you give us a brief introduction about yourself and your current research topic?

My name is Delia Randolph (although I publish under my maiden name Delia Grace). I have been working in food safety in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) since 2006, making it my primary research focus for nearly 20 years. My broader interests also include One Health and veterinary public health.

The paper we recently published is part of a long-term research agenda that I have been leading, aiming to develop the best evidence on hazards and illnesses associated with food in LMICs. Foodborne diseases pose an immense health burden, with estimates showing that their impact is comparable to malaria, HIV/AIDS, or tuberculosis. More than 90% of this burden falls on people in LMICs, making it a critical research priority.

2. Could you describe the difficulties and breakthrough innovations in this research field?

One of the biggest challenges in this field is the limited and often low-quality literature available for many LMICs. Conducting rigorous systematic literature reviews in such contexts requires flexibility and adaptation. One of my earlier papers, titled “Where Literature is Scarce”, specifically addressed these challenges. Despite these difficulties, we were able to successfully conduct the first-ever systematic literature review on biological hazards in fish in Cambodia. Cambodia has recently made advancements in its food safety legal framework, including the implementation of food safety laws and the release of technical orders concerning the use of veterinary medical products in aquaculture. This study is valuable not only to policymakers and the scientific community but also to local fish farmers and exporters aiming to strengthen food safety measures. The paper was largely conducted by a Ph.D. student, Shwe San, supervised by myself and my University of Greenwich colleagues Dr. Linda Nicolaides, Prof. Nazanin Zand, and Dr Rortana Chea at the National of Animal Health and Production Research Institute (NAHPRI). Shwe is from Myanmar and is currently studying at the University of Greenwich. Her dedication played a key role in completing this important research.

3. What motivated you to conduct this research?

The sheer scale of the problem is highly motivating. Foodborne disease in LMICs is a serious issue, yet it remains neglected in terms of investment and policy action. For example, a study I conducted with the World Bank showed that, despite the massive burden of foodborne diseases in Africa, investments in improving food safety remain extremely low.

This combination of a significant public health issue and a lack of attention makes food safety research both urgent and rewarding. There is still much to be done, and each study contributes to raising awareness and improving global food safety standards.

4. How do you evaluate research trends in your field, and what are your suggestions for young scholars?

This is a critical and expanding area of research, with many opportunities for young scholars. Since food safety in LMICs has been underexplored, there is still plenty of “low-hanging fruit” for researchers to investigate. The field is highly interdisciplinary, intersecting human health, animal health, and environmental factors. Many of the most important foodborne diseases are zoonotic, and their prevalence is expected to change with climate shifts. Emerging diseases such as Clostridium difficile are also gaining attention. Given these complexities, researchers from various backgrounds—including environmental science, agriculture, and public health—can make meaningful contributions to this field.

5. How was your publishing experience with IJERPH?

I first published in IJERPH in 2015, when I authored a paper on foodborne diseases in informal markets in LMICs. More recently, my Ph.D. student and I were drawn to the journal due to the opportunity to publish in an anniversary Special Issue with waived publication fees. Given that she is self-funded and from an LMIC, this was a perfect opportunity for her to share her research. Our publishing experience with IJERPH was positive, and we appreciate the journal’s role in increasing visibility for important but underrepresented research topics.

World Health Day aims to draw global attention to pressing health challenges, reinforcing our commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3—ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

This year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures” highlights the importance of maternal and infant health. Current estimates show that a woman dies every two minutes from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Urgent action is needed to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and to prioritize women’s long-term health and well-being.

To provide high-quality care before, during, and after childbirth, we must engage in critical discussions and foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. Health systems must evolve to address the full spectrum of maternal and newborn health issues—from obstetric complications to mental health conditions, noncommunicable diseases, and family planning.

In recognition of World Health Day 2025, we invite you to explore a curated selection of articles, journals, and Special Issues spanning multiple disciplines. These resources offer valuable insights into the complexities of maternal and infant health and outline actionable steps toward lasting, positive change.

Together, we can build a world where every mother and child have the opportunity for a healthy, hopeful future.

Maternal Health
“Relationship Between Plasma Acid Sphingomyelinase and Alteration in Taste and Smell as Indicator of Long COVID in Pregnant Women”
by Federico Fiorani, Giulia Moretti, Laura Cerquiglini, Chiara Gizzi, Giulia Gizzi, Paola Signorelli, Samuela Cataldi, Tommaso Beccari, Elisa Delvecchio, Claudia Mazzeschi et al.
Reports 2024, 7(4), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports7040104
  
“Pregnant Women’s Perception of Gestational Anemia and Iron Supplements in Oman”
by Zalikha Khamis Al-Marzouqi, Nawal Said Alsereahi and Safiya Khalfan Al Maqbali
J. Oman Med. Assoc. 2024, 1(1), 10–22; https://doi.org/10.3390/joma1010003

“The Sri Lanka Mother and Newborn Growth (S-MaNGro) Cohort: Protocol of a Nationwide Prospective Study”
by Malshani Lakshika Pathirathna, Megumi Haruna, Satoshi Sasaki, Kaori Yonezawa, Yuriko Usui and Yasuhiro Hagiwara
Methods Protoc. 2024, 7(4), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/mps7040061

“Gestational Trophoblastic Disease: Complete versus Partial Hydatidiform Moles”
by Jeffrey Gonzalez, Meagan Popp, Stephanie Ocejo, Alvaro Abreu, Hisham F. Bahmad and Robert Poppiti
Diseases 2024, 12(7), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases12070159

“Evaluating Thromboprophylaxis Strategies for High-Risk Pregnancy: A Current Perspective”
by Lucia Stančiaková, Kristína Brisudová, Ingrid Škorňová, Tomáš Bolek, Matej Samoš, Kamil Biringer, Ján Staško and Juraj Sokol
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060773

“Caring for Pregnant Patients with Cancer: A Framework for Ethical and Patient-Centred Care”
by Alma Linkeviciute, Rita Canario, Fedro Alessandro Peccatori and Kris Dierickx
Cancers 2024, 16(2), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16020455

“Histopathological Clues of Enhanced Inflammation in the Placental Tissue of Women with Chronic Venous Disease in Lower Limbs during Pregnancy”
by María Asunción Sánchez-Gil, Oscar Fraile-Martinez, Cielo García-Montero, María Del Val Toledo, Luis G. Guijarro, Juan A. De León-Luis, Coral Bravo, Raúl Díaz-Pedrero, Laura López-Gonzalez, Miguel A. Saez et al.
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14010087

“Challenges Related to Acquisition of Physiological Data for Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Models in Postpartum, Lactating Women and Breastfed Infants—A Contribution from the ConcePTION Project”
by Martje Van Neste, Annick Bogaerts, Nina Nauwelaerts, Julia Macente, Anne Smits, Pieter Annaert and Karel Allegaert
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(11), 2618; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15112618

“Umbilical Cord Diseases Affecting Obstetric and Perinatal Outcomes”
by Gabriele Tonni, Mario Lituania, Alessandro Cecchi, Elisa Carboni, Serena Resta, Maria Paola Bonasoni and Rodrigo Ruano
Healthcare 2023, 11(19), 2634; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11192634

“Scientists’ Warning: Remove the Barriers to Contraception Access, for Health of Women and the Planet”
by Jan Greguš and John Guillebaud
World 2023, 4(3), 589–597; https://doi.org/10.3390/world4030036

“Trauma-Informed Care and Equity in Group Pregnancy Care for Women of Refugee Background: Reflections from the Workforce”
by Fran Hearn, Laura Biggs, Stephanie J. Brown, Ann Krastev, Josef Szwarc and Elisha Riggs
Trauma Care 2023, 3(3), 161–176; https://doi.org/10.3390/traumacare3030016

“Smoking Cessation Rates among Pregnant Women and Their Relapse Rates in the Postpartum Period in Samsun”
by Bektas Murat Yalcin, Tugba Kertmen and Muge Ustaoglu
J. Respir. 2023, 3(3), 118–129; https://doi.org/10.3390/jor3030012

“Effects of COVID-19 on Kenya’s Healthcare System: Healthcare Providers’ Experiences with Maternal Health Services Utilization in Coastal Kenya”
by Stephen Okumu Ombere and Agnetta Adiedo Nyabundi
World 2023, 4(1), 140–152; https://doi.org/10.3390/world4010010

Infant and Child Health
“Clinical Insight into Congenital Hypothyroidism Among Children”
by Hüseyin Anıl Korkmaz
Children 2025, 12(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12010055

“Child and Adolescent Mental Health in a Period of Fewer COVID-19-Related Restrictions in an Urban Population in Germany”
by Anna Konopka, Amand Führer, Mascha Binder, Sophie Diexer, Thomas Frese, Michael Gekle, Matthias Girndt, Cornelia Gottschick, Jessica Hoell, Bianca Klee et al.
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(4), 718–737; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5040050

“Differences in Farmers’ Market Patronage among Participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)”
by Renata Blumberg, Emily Fowler, Gabrielle Guerrero, Yeon Bai, Meena Mahadevan and Pankaj Lal
Dietetics 2024, 3(2), 179–190; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics3020015

“Maternal Depressive Symptoms in the First Year after Childbirth Predict Long-Term Developmental Risks in Sons and Daughters”
by Linda S. Pagani, Kianoush Harandian, Beatrice Necsa, Marie-Josée Harbec and George M. Tarabulsy
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030264

“Inflammatory Biomarker Profiles in Very Preterm Infants within the Context of Preeclampsia, Chorioamnionitis, and Clinically Diagnosed Postnatal Infection”
by Jordan T. Ewald, Baiba Steinbrekera, Jennifer R. Bermick, Donna A. Santillan, Tarah T. Colaizy, Mark K. Santillan and Robert D. Roghair
Pediatr. Rep. 2023, 15(3), 483–493; https://doi.org/10.3390/pediatric15030044

“A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial Evaluating a Regenerative Epithelial Suspension for Medium-Size Partial-Thickness Burns in Children: The BRACS Trial”
by Anjana Bairagi, Zephanie Tyack, Roy Kimble, Dimitrios Vagenas, Steven M. McPhail and Bronwyn Griffin
Eur. Burn J. 2023, 4(1), 121–141; https://doi.org/10.3390/ebj4010012

“The Impact of the Early COVID-19 Global Pandemic on Children Undergoing Active Cancer Treatment and Their Parents”
by Andrew Tran, Sharon H. J. Hou, Caitlin Forbes, Sara Cho, Victoria J. Forster, Mehak Stokoe, Claire E. Wakefield, Lori Wiener, Lauren C. Heathcote, Gisela Michel et al.
Curr. Oncol. 2023, 30(2), 2441–2456; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol30020186

“Feature Advancements in Section “Childhood, Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology””	“Global Neonatal Screening: Expanding Horizons in Diagnostic Technologies”
“Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women”	“Advanced Pediatric Drug Formulation Strategies”

MDPI is excited to attend the International Congress on Academic Medicine (ICAM) in Halifax, Canada, which will be held from 3 to 6 April 2025. With multiple topics surrounding the fields of medical education and health research, ICAM 2025 will consist of medical students, resident graduate students, doctors, faculty, and even patients, representing a tremendous opportunity for like-minded individuals to network and share critical research. This conference will provide an excellent opportunity for MDPI to collaborate with learners at the forefront of their careers and discuss relevant publishing topics, which will help us refine our processes. Join us on 4 April from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. for a Scientific Publishing Exchange given by Dr. Zach Churcher as we discuss our open access publishing framework, the building blocks of scientific publishing, and much more to help rising scholars achieve their goals with greater efficiency. We hope to see you there!

Project Name	MDPI Open Science Insights: Scientific Publishing Exchange at ICAM 2025
Date and Time (local time)	9:00–10:00 a.m. GST (EST+1), 4 April 2025
Online / Offline	Offline
Venue	Halifax Convention Centre, Summit Level – Room 612
Institution	The International Congress on Academic Medicine (an initiative of AFMC)
Institution Banner
Leading Journals	IJERPH, Healthcare, Nursing Reports

Schedule: 

Speaker:

Dr. Zach Churcher
	Dr. Zach Churcher has a B.Sc. in pharmaceutical chemistry from the University of Toronto, Canada, and a Ph.D. in chemistry from York University. He joined MDPI as an Assistant Editor for Sensors (ISSN: 1424-8220) at the Toronto office and is now a regional Journal Relations Specialist for North America, traveling across Canada and the United States to attend conferences and meet with scholars.

Autistic individuals contribute uniquely to society, bringing diverse perspectives, creativity, and innovation. Recognizing and valuing neurodiversity fosters more inclusive communities where individuals with autism can thrive. However, many face challenges in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and social support due to systemic barriers and misconceptions. By strengthening inclusive policies, support networks, and awareness efforts, we can create environments that empower autistic individuals to reach their full potential while ensuring their rights, dignity, and well-being. 

In recognition of the International Day of Autism Awareness, observed annually on 2 April, we celebrate the contributions of autistic individuals and reaffirm our commitment to promoting inclusion and acceptance. The theme for this year’s World Autism Awareness Day, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”, emphasizes the importance of integrating neurodiversity into global development efforts, ensuring that autistic individuals are included in the pursuit of the SDGs. We highlight a selection of relevant articles, Special Issues, and journals spanning disciplines such as psychology, education, public health, and social sciences. Through the dissemination of research, we aim to deepen understanding, promote acceptance, and encourage practical solutions that enhance the lives of autistic individuals. By fostering awareness and advocacy, we can work toward a more inclusive, supportive, and neurodiverse society.

 Invited speakers:

	Prof. Dr. Marios Adamou, University of Huddersfield, UK Presentation: “Enhancing Adult Autism Diagnostic Pathways: The Role of Clinical Triage in Efficient Service Provision”
	Dr. Andrey Vyshedskiy, Boston University, USA Presentaion: “Fostering Syntactic Language Acquisition in Children with Autism”
	Dr. Roberto Canitano, Univeristy of L’Aquila, Italy Presentation: “Experimental Treatments in ASD”

Feel free to register for this webinar here. 

“Cognitive and Emotional Resilience in Parents with Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder During COVID-19: The Role of Promoting Variables”
by Aziz Sarhani-Robles, Maria Guillot-Valdes, Maria Auxiliadora Robles-Bello and David Sanchez-Teruel
J. Intell. 2025, 13(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence13010006 

“International Perspectives on Assistive Technologies for Autism and Intellectual Disabilities: Findings from a Delphi Study”
by Paulina Tsvetkova, Carla Sousa, Daniel Beiderbeck, Aneta M. Kochanowciz, Branislav Gerazov, May Agius, Tomasz Przybyla, Merita Hoxha and Alan H. Tkacyz
Disabilities 2024, 4(4), 1138-1155; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities4040071 

“Validity of the Greek Knowledge About Childhood Autism Among Health Workers (KCAHW) Questionnaire”
by Vasiliki Zarokanellou, Alexandros Gyparis, Evridiki Papagiannopoulou and Vassiliki Siafaka
Psychiatry. Int. 2024, 5(4), 962-974; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5040066 

“The Feasibility of Whole-Body Vibration Training as an Approach to Improve Health in Autistic Adults”
by Amy Allnutt, Sara Pappa and Michael Nordvall
Disabilities 2024, 4(3), 429-443; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities4030027 

“The Association between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Precocious Puberty: Considering Effect Modification by Sex and Neuropsychiatric Comorbidities“
by Yi-Chun Liu, Yin-To Liao, Mei-Hong Wan, Vincent Chin-Huang Chen and Yi-Lung Chen
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 632; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060632 

“Epidemiological Study of Autism Spectrum Disorders in Greece for 2021: Nationwide Prevalence in 2–17-Year-Old Children and Regional Disparities”
by Raissa Kouznetsov, Panagiotis Angelopoulos, Spyridon Moulinos, Ioannis Dimakos, Philippos Gourzis and Eleni Jelastopuly
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(7), 2510; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12072510

“Mental Health, Innovative Therapies and Assessment in Adolescents and Young Adults and Related Contexts” Guest Editors: Prof. Dr. David Sánchez-Teruel and Prof. Dr. Mª Auxiliadora Robles-Bello Submission Deadline: 30 September 2025

MDPI will be attending the 2025 Association for Psychological Science (APS) Annual Convention held in Washington, D.C., from 22 to 25 of May 2025. The conference is being organized by the Association for Psychological Science, which is a scientific home to thousands of leading psychological science researchers, practitioners, teachers, and students from around the world dedicated to advancing scientific psychology across disciplinary and geographic borders.

The APS Annual Convention is an international psychological science conference which is held once a year, and the 2025 meeting will feature plenary sessions, symposia, flash talks, submitted talks, posters, educational sessions, receptions, special events, and more.

Topics:

• Biological/Neuroscience; 
• Cognitive;
• Industrial/Organizational;
• Methodology;
• Social;
• Clinical Science;
• Developmental;
• General;
• Personality/Emotion;
• Teaching.

The following MDPI journals will be represented:

• Behavioral Sciences;
• Adolescents;
• J. Intell;
• Sexes;
• IJERPH;
• Education Sciences;
• Disabilities;
• Psychology International;
• Social Sciences;
• EJIHPE.

If you are planning to attend the conference, please visit our booth #308. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person and answering any questions that you may have. For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://www.psychologicalscience.org/conventions/2025-aps-annual-convention.