Journal Description
Children
Children
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on 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, Embase, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Pediatrics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second 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.
Impact Factor:
2.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
The Usefulness of a Revised Version of the Material Values Scale—Short Form in Italian Adolescents: Psychometric Evidence from Two Studies
Children 2024, 11(6), 675; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060675 (registering DOI) - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Materialism is an attitude that considers material goods to be central in life. Nowadays, adolescents appear to have a high level of materialism, which is related to risky behaviors. Nevertheless, there is a lack of measurement tools with adequate psychometric properties to
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Background: Materialism is an attitude that considers material goods to be central in life. Nowadays, adolescents appear to have a high level of materialism, which is related to risky behaviors. Nevertheless, there is a lack of measurement tools with adequate psychometric properties to assess materialism in this age group. For this reason, two studies were conducted to investigate the psychometric properties of the original and short Material Values Scale (MVS) in adolescents. Methods: In Study 1, participants were randomly split into two subsamples to compare psychometric properties of the original version of MVS with those of the short one. The first subsample consisted of 1054 adolescents (58% male; Mage = 16.34; SD = 1.15), and the second one of 1058 adolescents (57% male; Mage = 16.26; SD = 1.04). In Study 2, the psychometric properties of a revised version of the short MVS (without item 8) were investigated to confirm its adequacy with a new sample composed of 1896 adolescents (60% male; Mage = 16.40; SD = 2.76). Results: Results of Study 1 showed that the short version appeared to be a better measuring tool with respect to the long form to investigate materialism in adolescents. Nevertheless, problems with item 8 emerged. Results of Study 2 attested to the adequacy of the psychometric properties of the revised version of the short MVS (by excluding item 8) in this age group, in terms of dimensionality, reliability, and validity. Conclusions: Findings show that the revised short version of the MVS could be a valid and reliable tool for measuring the multidimensional construct of materialism in Italian adolescents.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Health of Children and Adolescents in Times of Crises)
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Open AccessReview
Exploring Cardiovascular Involvement in Tuberous Sclerosis: Insights for Pediatric Clinicians
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Cecilia Lazea, Ioana Țaranu and Sorana D. Bolboacă
Children 2024, 11(6), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060674 (registering DOI) - 2 Jun 2024
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Tuberous sclerosis is a rare genetic disorder involving mainly the nervous and cardiovascular systems. The early recognition of the cardiovascular manifestations by the pediatrician allows an appropriate management and therefore enhances the quality of life of the affected children. Cardiac rhabdomyomas and the
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Tuberous sclerosis is a rare genetic disorder involving mainly the nervous and cardiovascular systems. The early recognition of the cardiovascular manifestations by the pediatrician allows an appropriate management and therefore enhances the quality of life of the affected children. Cardiac rhabdomyomas and the associated arrhythmias are the first cardiac features and they might represent a diagnosis challenge given their wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. We aimed to provide the paediatric practitioners with current knowledge regarding the cardiovascular complications in children with tuberous sclerosis. We overviewed the antenatal and postnatal evolution of cardiovascular manifestations, the systematic screening and long-term follow-up strategy of cardiac rhabdomyomas and arrhythmias in children with tuberous sclerosis.
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Open AccessReview
Meconium Aspiration Syndrome, Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy and Therapeutic Hypothermia—A Recipe for Severe Pulmonary Hypertension?
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Deepika Sankaran, Jessa Rose A. Li and Satyan Lakshminrusimha
Children 2024, 11(6), 673; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060673 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is the leading cause of mortality among term newborns globally. Infants born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid are at risk of developing meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) and HIE. Simultaneous occurrence of MAS and HIE is a perilous combination for newborns due
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Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is the leading cause of mortality among term newborns globally. Infants born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid are at risk of developing meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) and HIE. Simultaneous occurrence of MAS and HIE is a perilous combination for newborns due to the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). Moreover, therapeutic hypothermia (TH), which is the current standard of care for the management of HIE, may increase pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and worsen PPHN. Infants with MAS and HIE require close cardiorespiratory and hemodynamic monitoring for PPHN. Therapeutic strategies, including oxygen supplementation, ventilation, use of surfactant, inhaled nitric oxide and other pulmonary vasodilators, and systemic vasopressors, play a critical role in the management of PPHN in MAS, HIE, and TH. While TH reduces death or disability in infants with HIE, infants with MAS and HIE undergoing TH need close hemodynamic monitoring for PPHN.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Management of Pulmonary Hypertension in Infants and Children)
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Open AccessArticle
Management of Chondroblastoma in Pediatric Patients: 21 Years of Single-Center Experience
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Hakan Koray Tosyalı, Hüseyin Kaya, Burcin Kececi and Dündar Sabah
Children 2024, 11(6), 672; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060672 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
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Background: Chondroblastoma (CB), a rare benign bone tumor that produces chondrocytes, often develops in the epiphysis or apophysis of children and young adults. The treatment of these rare tumors is complex. The standard treatment protocol involves curettage with local adjuvants and bone graft
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Background: Chondroblastoma (CB), a rare benign bone tumor that produces chondrocytes, often develops in the epiphysis or apophysis of children and young adults. The treatment of these rare tumors is complex. The standard treatment protocol involves curettage with local adjuvants and bone graft or cement application. The authors examined 38 CBs to determine risk factors for local recurrence, complications, and functional outcomes following epiphyseal curettage. Methods: Twenty-two girls and sixteen boys aged 10 to 17 years with histologically confirmed chondroblastoma who arrived at our hospital between January 2000 and June 2021 were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical data, radiographic images, histological results, treatment, functional outcomes, and the local recurrence rate were examined—surgical treatment involved total tumor curettage, followed by bone grafting and adjuvant techniques. Local recurrences have also been reported. Results: The most frequently affected site was the proximal femur. Sites of involvement included the proximal femur in 10 (26.3%) cases, the proximal tibia in 8 (20.8%), the humerus in 5 cases (13.2%), the distal tibia in 4 cases (10.5%), the distal femur in 3 cases (7.9%), the supracetabular region in 3 cases (7.9%), the talus in 1 case (2.6%), the calcaneus in 1 case (2.6%), the scapula in 1 case (2.6%), the lumbar spine in 1 case (2.6%), and the iliac bone in 1 (2.6%) patient. The mean follow-up was 144.2 months (24 to 276). The local recurrence rate was 7.9%. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score was 28.3 points (17 to 30). The mean duration of symptoms at presentation was 5.8 (range, 1 to 28) months. Conclusion: Aggressive curettage and bone grafting resulted in local control and good outcomes in most pediatric patients. In a relatively small proportion of cases, long-term complications and recurrence can occur due to growth plate damage and late diagnosis. In patients admitted to the pediatric clinic with pain, which is often accompanied by localized edema and joint effusion, early detection via advanced radiological scans (X-ray, CT, or MRI) may prevent delays in diagnosis.
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Open AccessArticle
Characteristics of Adolescents with and without a Family History of Substance Use Disorder from a Minority Cohort
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Keely Cheslack-Postava, Yael M. Cycowicz, Diana V. Rodriguez-Moreno, Lawrence V. Amsel, George J. Musa, Megan Ryan, Michaeline Bresnahan, Huilan Tang, Lupo Geronazzo-Alman, Adam Bisaga, Zhishun Wang, Xiaofu He and Christina W. Hoven
Children 2024, 11(6), 671; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060671 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Family history (FH+) of substance use disorder (SUD) is an established risk factor for offspring SUD. The extent to which offspring psychological traits or the family environment, each of which may be relevant to familial transmission of SUD risk, vary by FH+ in
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Family history (FH+) of substance use disorder (SUD) is an established risk factor for offspring SUD. The extent to which offspring psychological traits or the family environment, each of which may be relevant to familial transmission of SUD risk, vary by FH+ in socioeconomically disadvantaged populations is less clear. We compared the family/social environmental and psychological characteristics of 73 FH+ and 69 FH- youth ages 12–16, from a study of parental criminal justice system involvement in a primarily low-income, minority urban population. A latent profile analysis (LPA) empirically identified groups of subjects with similar psychological characteristics, which were then compared by FH+. FH+ youths were found to have greater mean household size, greater parental psychological aggression, and a higher mean number of adverse childhood experiences, even without considering parental SUD. FH+ individuals had lower report card grades according to parental report and were more likely to have a history of externalizing disorders than FH- individuals. However, FH+ was not significantly associated with many psychological characteristics or with the class membership from the LPA. In conclusion, among a population of low-income, minority urban youth, FH+ was associated with differences in the family environment and only subtle differences in individual psychological characteristics.
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(This article belongs to the Section Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
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Open AccessArticle
Study of Correlation between Fetal Bowel Dilation and Congenital Gastrointestinal Malformation
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Yi Jiang, Weipeng Wang, Weihua Pan, Wenjie Wu, Dan Zhu and Jun Wang
Children 2024, 11(6), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060670 (registering DOI) - 31 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Ultrasound serves as a valuable tool for the early detection of fetal bowel dilatation, yet the correlation between fetal bowel dilatation and gastrointestinal malformations remains to be further investigated. This study aims to explore the relationship by conducting a follow-up and analysis
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Background: Ultrasound serves as a valuable tool for the early detection of fetal bowel dilatation, yet the correlation between fetal bowel dilatation and gastrointestinal malformations remains to be further investigated. This study aims to explore the relationship by conducting a follow-up and analysis of fetuses with bowel dilation. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 113 fetuses with bowel dilatation at our center from July 2014 to December 2019. The location and degree of bowel dilatation were analyzed. ROC curves were constructed based on the diameter of the bowel and its ratio to fetal gestational age. Results: In total, 40 of 41 cases (97.6%) with upper gastrointestinal dilatation (double-bubble sign) and 46 of 72 cases (63.9%) with lower gastrointestinal dilatation were diagnosed with gastrointestinal malformations postnatally. The AUC of the dilatation diameter was 0.854 with a cutoff value of 18.05 mm in patients with lower gastrointestinal dilatation. The ratio of the diameter to gestational age (D/GA) showed a higher AUC of 0.906 with a cutoff value of 0.4931. Conclusions: The presence of the double-bubble sign in fetuses indicates a close association with duodenal obstruction. The risk of gastrointestinal malformations increases when the bowel diameter exceeds 18.05 mm, particularly when the D/GA surpasses 0.4931.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adverse Neonatal Outcomes in Perinatal Periods: Risk Factors, Screening and Treatment)
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Open AccessEditorial
Genetic Diagnosis in Children with Developmental Delay
by
Kun-Long Hung
Children 2024, 11(6), 669; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060669 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Developmental delay (DD) has a great impact on children at the developmental stage, and is often manifested by varying degrees of motor delays, intellectual disabilities, and other defects [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diagnosis in Children with Developmental Delay)
Open AccessReview
Lung Diseases and Rare Disorders: Is It a Lysosomal Storage Disease? Differential Diagnosis, Pathogenetic Mechanisms and Management
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Chiara Montanari, Veronica Maria Tagi, Enza D’Auria, Vincenzo Guaia, Anna Di Gallo, Michele Ghezzi, Elvira Verduci, Laura Fiori and Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
Children 2024, 11(6), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060668 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Pulmonologists may be involved in managing pulmonary diseases in children with complex clinical pictures without a diagnosis. Moreover, they are routinely involved in the multidisciplinary care of children with rare diseases, at baseline and during follow-up, for lung function monitoring. Lysosomal storage diseases
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Pulmonologists may be involved in managing pulmonary diseases in children with complex clinical pictures without a diagnosis. Moreover, they are routinely involved in the multidisciplinary care of children with rare diseases, at baseline and during follow-up, for lung function monitoring. Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are a group of genetic diseases characterised by a specific lysosomal enzyme deficiency. Despite varying pathogen and organ involvement, they are linked by the pathological accumulation of exceeding substrates, leading to cellular toxicity and subsequent organ damage. Less severe forms of LSDs can manifest during childhood or later in life, sometimes being underdiagnosed. Respiratory impairment may stem from different pathogenetic mechanisms, depending on substrate storage in bones, with skeletal deformity and restrictive pattern, in bronchi, with obstructive pattern, in lung interstitium, with altered alveolar gas exchange, and in muscles, with hypotonia. This narrative review aims to outline different pulmonary clinical findings and a diagnostic approach based on key elements for differential diagnosis in some treatable LSDs like Gaucher disease, Acid Sphingomyelinase deficiency, Pompe disease and Mucopolysaccharidosis. Alongside their respiratory clinical aspects, which might overlap, we will describe radiological findings, lung functional patterns and associated symptoms to guide pediatric pulmonologists in differential diagnosis. The second part of the paper will address follow-up and management specifics. Recent evidence suggests that new therapeutic strategies play a substantial role in preventing lung involvement in early-treated patients and enhancing lung function and radiological signs in others. Timely diagnosis, driven by clinical suspicion and diagnostic workup, can help in treating LSDs effectively.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine)
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Open AccessReview
Management of Pediatric Solid Organ Injuries
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Bailey D. Lyttle, Regan F. Williams and Steven Stylianos
Children 2024, 11(6), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060667 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Solid organ injury (SOI) is common in children who experience abdominal trauma, and the management of such injuries has evolved significantly over the past several decades. In 2000, the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) published the first societal guidelines for the management of
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Solid organ injury (SOI) is common in children who experience abdominal trauma, and the management of such injuries has evolved significantly over the past several decades. In 2000, the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) published the first societal guidelines for the management of blunt spleen and/or liver injury (BLSI), advocating for optimized resource utilization while maintaining patient safety. Nonoperative management (NOM) has become the mainstay of treatment for SOI, and since the publication of the APSA guidelines, numerous groups have evaluated how invasive procedures, hospitalization, and activity restrictions may be safely minimized in children with SOI. Here, we review the current evidence-based management guidelines in place for the treatment of injuries to the spleen, liver, kidney, and pancreas in children, including initial evaluation, inpatient management, and long-term care, as well as gaps that exist in the current literature that may be targeted for further optimization of protocols for pediatric SOI.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Treatment of Childhood Fractures and Trauma)
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Open AccessReview
Global Initiative for Children’s Surgery (GICS) Pediatric Trauma Care Initiative: A Call for a Comprehensive Approach to a Global Problem
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Abdelbasit E. Ali, Adesoji Ademuyiwa, Simone Abib, Charles Carapinha, Fazal Nouman Wahid, Udo Rolle and Kokila Lakhoo
Children 2024, 11(6), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060666 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Trauma is a major problem which has a significant health, social, and economic impact. Particularly, pediatric trauma carries substantial mortality and morbidity. This is a great concern for subspecialized general and pediatric surgeons. Therefore, a global initiative for pediatric trauma care is
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Introduction: Trauma is a major problem which has a significant health, social, and economic impact. Particularly, pediatric trauma carries substantial mortality and morbidity. This is a great concern for subspecialized general and pediatric surgeons. Therefore, a global initiative for pediatric trauma care is warranted and should be initiated. Aim: The international association “Global Initiative for Children’s Surgery” (GICS) would like to propose and organize a children’s trauma care (CTC) initiative. This initiative should comprehensively address pediatric trauma management globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The initiative seeks to achieve a structured cooperation and collaboration with respective sister organizations and local stakeholders. Methods: The initiative will address these relevant aspects: 1. first aid; 2. prehospital primary trauma care; 3. hospital primary trauma care; 4. advanced care (ATLS); 5. diagnostic facilities; 6. operation room (OR) equipment; 7. specialized surgical services; 8. rehabilitation; 9. registry, research, and auditing; 10. specialization in pediatric trauma; 11. capacity and confidence building in pediatric trauma; 12. prevention. The GICS CTC provided activities have been recorded and evaluated in a structured manner. This statement paper is based on data of a narrative review as well as expert opinions. Results: The Trauma Working Group of GICS provided specialized trauma prevention leaflets available for translation to different languages. A one-day children’s primary trauma course has been designed to be delivered at the physical GICS meetings. Exercising advocacy, the group addressed several meetings on prevention of pediatric trauma, which included the 75th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) (2020), GICS IVth meeting in Johannesburg (2020), Norwich (UK) Joint SPRINT Symposium on Pediatric Surgery for Pediatricians (2021), the second online Pan African Pediatric Surgical Association (PAPSA) meeting (2021), the seventh World Congress of the World Federation of Associations of Pediatric Surgeons (WOFAPS) in Prague (2022), and GICS pediatric trauma webinar (2023). Additionally, the working group participated in the preparations of a pediatric trauma module for the World Health Organization (WHO) and published several related studies. The contents of the selected articles added relevant information to the categories stated above. Conclusions: The CTC initiative of GICS is proposed as a mean to address pediatric trauma comprehensively through a process of collaboration and advocacy with existing organizations to achieve awareness, health education, prevention, health, and training. Further, it will support the provision of suitable facilities to health institutions. The establishment of a specialization in pediatric trauma is encouraged. GICS CTC initiative aims to improve pediatric trauma care in LMICs by developing injury prevention strategies; optimizing the use of locally available resources; obtaining commitment by LMICs governments; improvement in all fields of hospital care; improvements in infrastructure, education and training, and attention to data registry and research.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Surgery)
Open AccessReview
Utilization of Indocyanine Green (ICG) Fluorescence in Patients with Pediatric Colorectal Diseases: The Current Applications and Reported Outcomes
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Elizaveta Bokova, Ismael Elhalaby, Seth Saylors, Irene Isabel P. Lim and Rebecca M. Rentea
Children 2024, 11(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060665 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
In pediatric colorectal surgery, achieving and visualizing adequate perfusion during complex reconstructive procedures are paramount to ensure postoperative success. However, intraoperative identification of proper perfusion remains a challeng. This review synthesizes findings from the literature spanning from January 2010 to March 2024, sourced
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In pediatric colorectal surgery, achieving and visualizing adequate perfusion during complex reconstructive procedures are paramount to ensure postoperative success. However, intraoperative identification of proper perfusion remains a challeng. This review synthesizes findings from the literature spanning from January 2010 to March 2024, sourced from Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, and other databases, to evaluate the role of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging in enhancing surgical outcomes. Specifically, it explores the use of ICG in surgeries related to Hirschsprung disease, anorectal malformations, cloacal reconstructions, vaginal agenesis, bladder augmentation, and the construction of antegrade continence channels. Preliminary evidence suggests that ICG fluorescence significantly aids in intraoperative decision-making by improving the visualization of vascular networks and assessing tissue perfusion. Despite the limited number of studies, initial findings indicate that ICG may offer advantages over traditional clinical assessments for intestinal perfusion. Its application has demonstrated a promising safety profile in pediatric patients, underscoring the need for larger, prospective studies to validate these observations, quantify benefits, and further assess its impact on clinical outcomes. The potential of ICG to enhance pediatric colorectal surgery by providing real-time, accurate perfusion data could significantly improve surgical precision and patient recovery.
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(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Surgery)
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Open AccessBrief Report
Use of Ceftazidime-Avibactam in Children Admitted to Pediatric Intensive Care Units
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André Ricardo Araujo da Silva and Rafael Quijada
Children 2024, 11(6), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060664 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Ceftazidime-Avibactam (CAZ-AVI) is one of the new antibiotics available to treat infections due to carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria (CRB). Our aim was to describe the use of CAZ-AVI in children admitted to pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), with suspected or proven CRB infections.
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Background: Ceftazidime-Avibactam (CAZ-AVI) is one of the new antibiotics available to treat infections due to carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria (CRB). Our aim was to describe the use of CAZ-AVI in children admitted to pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), with suspected or proven CRB infections. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted in two PICUs of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between January 2020 and January 2024. Children aged 0 to 18 years who received CAZ-AVI for more than 24 h were included. Results: CAZ-AVI was used in 37 patients. The median age was 28 months (range 1–215), 17 (45.9%) being male. The median time from the patient admission to the initial prescription of CAZ-AVI was 39.9 days (range 1–138). Thirty-four (91.9%) children had at least one comorbidity at admission and (91.9%) used at least one invasive device prior to the CAZ-AVI prescription, and 89.2% had received carbapenem before; and fifteen (40.5%) had healthcare-associated infection (HAI) prior to CAZ-AVI use. The mean time of CAZ-AVI use was 11 days (range 1–22). Gram-negative bacteria were isolated in cultures from 12 (32.4%) patients in the 24 h prior to prescription or on the day of prescription. In five patients, CRB was confirmed in cultures, and in four (80%) of them, microbiological clearance was verified after 7 days of treatment. The 30-day mortality rate was 37.8%. Conclusion: Almost all patients who used CAZ-AVI were critically ill children with multiple comorbidities and previous use of carbapenems. Among CRB confirmed infections, microbiology clearance in 7 days was high.
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Open AccessArticle
Relationships between Food Insecurity, Self-Efficacy, and Changes in Body Mass Index among the Youth in Taiwan: Analysis from a Longitudinal Cohort Survey
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Ya-Chi Huang, Chin Xuan Tan, Chih-Ting Lee and Meng-Che Tsai
Children 2024, 11(6), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060663 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Food insecurity is a heightened concern among economically disadvantaged youth, and it may contribute to the atypical body mass index (BMI) patterns frequently observed in this group. Self-efficacy seems to intervene in the negative impacts of contextual restraints. This study investigated the
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Background: Food insecurity is a heightened concern among economically disadvantaged youth, and it may contribute to the atypical body mass index (BMI) patterns frequently observed in this group. Self-efficacy seems to intervene in the negative impacts of contextual restraints. This study investigated the relationship between food insecurity, self-efficacy, and BMI trajectory among economically disadvantaged Taiwanese youth. Methods: We utilized three-wave longitudinal data from the Taiwan Database of Children and Youth in Poverty. The Food Insecurity Score (FIS) assessed food insecurity with a 4-item scale measuring reduced meal frequency, hunger, skipping meals, and economic constraints. Moreover, the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) assessed self-efficacy, showcasing the ability to handle stress effectively and envision success scenarios, contributing to positive outcomes. By employing latent growth modeling, we were able to delineate the impacts of baseline food insecurity and self-efficacy on initial BMI and its subsequent growth trajectory. Results: Elevated baseline FIS significantly predicted higher initial BMI (coefficient = 0.420, p = 0.042). Baseline GSES was negatively associated with initial BMI (coefficient = −0.093, p < 0.001) but positively predicted the BMI growth rate (coefficient = 0.023, p = 0.011). Conclusion: Enhancing self-efficacy may be an effective multidisciplinary intervention to address psychosocial and socioeconomic factors when tackling weight problems in vulnerable youth groups.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical, Psychological and Social Health in Childhood: The Role of Health Determinants)
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Open AccessArticle
Psychometric Properties of the Revised Self-Efficacy for Diabetes Self-Management Scale among Spanish Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes
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Joaquín Villaécija, Bárbara Luque, Esther Cuadrado, Sebastián Vivas and Carmen Tabernero
Children 2024, 11(6), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060662 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
A longitudinal design was used to examine the psychometric properties of the Self-Efficacy for Diabetes Self-Management (SEDM) for children and adolescents with a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The SEDM was adapted to Spanish and the best factorial solution was selected to
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A longitudinal design was used to examine the psychometric properties of the Self-Efficacy for Diabetes Self-Management (SEDM) for children and adolescents with a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The SEDM was adapted to Spanish and the best factorial solution was selected to test the invariance of the measures of age and gender. Individuals between the ages of 10 and 19 years old with a diagnosis of T1D completed a self-reported questionnaire (167 at Time 1 [mean age = 14.49, SD = 2.76; 56.9% boys] and 122 at Time 2 [mean age = 14.77, SD = 2.58; 56.6% boys]). Two unifactorial solutions were tested. The psychometric properties of the scale were validated. The proposed validation obtained excellent reliability indices (χ2 (26) = 25.59, p > 0.49, RMSEA = 0.00, 95% CI [0.00, 0.07], CFI = 1.00, GFI = 0.96, AGFI = 0.92, TLI = 1.00, and CMIN = 0.98), and it appeared to be invariant for gender and for age groups. The Cronbach’s α was 0.85. The test–retest reliability was high (r = 0.69 [p < 0.001]). Convergent, discriminant, and external validity were proven. The nine-item SEDM is a brief measure with satisfactory structural validity. From our knowledge, this study provides the first reliable tool to assess self-efficacy in the management of T1D for Spanish children and adolescents.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Childhood Diabetes)
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Open AccessArticle
The Related Role of Anxiety and Parental Resilience on the Aggressive Tendencies of Preschool Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic
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Evrim Durgut Şakrucu and Haktan Demircioğlu
Children 2024, 11(6), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060661 - 29 May 2024
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In this study, we aimed to determine the related role of anxiety and parental resilience on the aggressive tendencies of preschool children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study sample comprised a total of 293 parents with children aged 4–6 years. Relationships between Preschool
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In this study, we aimed to determine the related role of anxiety and parental resilience on the aggressive tendencies of preschool children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study sample comprised a total of 293 parents with children aged 4–6 years. Relationships between Preschool Anxiety Scale, Aggression Orientation Scale, and Brief Resilience Scale total and subscale scores were evaluated using Pearson and Spearman correlation analysis. The results of this study show that there is a positive relationship between children’s aggression tendencies and anxiety levels. We observed weak to moderate correlations between parents’ resilience scores and the children’s aggression and anxiety scores. Although linear regression analysis indicated no significant effect of parental resilience on children’s aggressive tendencies, anxiety levels may be related. In addition, study results showed that the physical aggression tendencies of children differed according to their age and the number of children in the family, albeit at a low level. Further studies are needed to identify factors associated with aggression in preschool children.
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Open AccessArticle
Evolution of Child and Youth Mental Health in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Analysis
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Arancha Bernal-Jiménez, Xosé Ramón García-Soto, Sara Calvo-Simal, Yolanda Álvarez-Férnandez, Rocío Gordo-Seco, M. Rosario Hernando-Segura, Ángela Osorio-Guzmán, Ana Gentil-Gutiérrez, Jessica Fernández-Solana, Jerónimo Javier González-Bernal and Josefa González-Santos
Children 2024, 11(6), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060660 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic generated uncertainty and disruption among the child and adolescent population. Multiple studies have documented a worsening of mental health following the pandemic. The main objective of this longitudinal study is to analyze the short-, medium-, and long-term evolution of
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Background: The COVID-19 pandemic generated uncertainty and disruption among the child and adolescent population. Multiple studies have documented a worsening of mental health following the pandemic. The main objective of this longitudinal study is to analyze the short-, medium-, and long-term evolution of the overall functioning of children and adolescents treated by a child and adolescent mental health team in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: 420 patients aged 3 to 18 were assessed using the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale at three time points: during the lockdown, three months later, and three years later. Differences based on gender, diagnosis, and time were analyzed. Results: A significant improvement was observed in the short-term (three months) and long-term (three years) compared to the lockdown period. This improvement was maintained in all diagnostic subgroups except for mixed cases (severe mental pathology), which showed the least improvement. No significant differences were found between males and females. Conclusions: The child and adolescent population showed a greater capacity for adaptation to the lockdown than expected. Family support, decreased stress, and therapeutic intervention appear to have played an important role in improving mental health.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effect of COVID-19 on Youth Mental Health)
Open AccessArticle
Relationships between Iron Status and Selected Physical Fitness Components of South African Adolescents: The PAHL-Study
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Makama Andries Monyeki, Tamrin Veldsman, Ben Coetzee, Martinique Sparks, Sarah Johanna Moss, Cindy Pienaar, Mariette Swanepoel, Linda Malan and Herculina Salome Kruger
Children 2024, 11(6), 659; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060659 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Poor iron status is detrimental to physical and cognitive performance in adolescents. Due to the limited studies investigating the association between iron status and physical fitness components in adolescents from low- and middle-income countries, we aimed to determine the association of iron status
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Poor iron status is detrimental to physical and cognitive performance in adolescents. Due to the limited studies investigating the association between iron status and physical fitness components in adolescents from low- and middle-income countries, we aimed to determine the association of iron status with selected physical fitness components in South African adolescents. A cross-sectional study design, including 178 adolescents (102 girls and 76 boys) from the Physical Activity and Health Longitudinal Study (PAHLS), was followed. Height and weight were measured to calculate the body mass index (BMI). Subsequently, WHO BMI-for-age-specific categorised body fatness. Cardiorespiratory fitness was determined with a 20-m shuttle run test ( ), and lower-body explosive power by the standing broad jump (SBJ). Fasting haemoglobin (Hb) and ferritin were analysed from blood samples. Correlation analyses determine the association between iron status, explosive power and cardiorespiratory fitness. Of the 178 participants, 18.5% (n = 33) had low Hb, and 14% (n = 25) iron deficiency without anaemia. Significant positive correlations were found between the selected physical fitness components, ferritin, and Hb. In boys, a positive association was found between Hb and SBJ (r = 0.30, p = 0.006), whilst in girls, positive associations were found between ferritin (r = 0.25, p = 0.04) and SBJ, and Hb with both SBJ (r = 0.21, p = 0.03) and (r = 0.32, p = 0.001). Hb concentration remained associated with and SBJ in girls after adjustment for age, whilst in boys, Hb concentration was associated with SBJ. Higher iron status in South African adolescents is associated with higher lower-limb explosive power and cardiorespiratory fitness. We suggest monitoring of haematological parameters, and interventions to improve the iron status of South African adolescents.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)
Open AccessArticle
Polysomnographically Defined Restless Sleep Disorder and Periodic Limb Movements during Sleep in Children Born Prematurely
by
Lourdes M. DelRosso, Hovig Artinian, Maria P. Mogavero, Oliviero Bruni, Manisha Witmans, Mary Anne Tablizo, Michelle Sobremonte-King and Raffaele Ferri
Children 2024, 11(6), 658; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060658 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Children born prematurely (<37 weeks’ gestation) are at increased risk of perinatal complications, comorbidities, and iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is associated with restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of restless sleep disorder (RSD)
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Introduction: Children born prematurely (<37 weeks’ gestation) are at increased risk of perinatal complications, comorbidities, and iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is associated with restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of restless sleep disorder (RSD) and elevated periodic limb movements during sleep (PLMS) in children born prematurely who underwent polysomnography. Methods: A retrospective chart review of sleep studies was conducted in children aged 1–18 years (median age 4 years) with a history of premature birth. Children with genetic syndrome, airway surgery, or tracheostomy were excluded. Three groups were compared: children with PLMS index >5, children with RSD, and children with neither elevated PLMS index nor RSD. Results: During the study, 2577 sleep studies were reviewed. Ninety-two studies fit our criteria and were included in the analysis. The median age at birth was 31 weeks, and the interquartile range (IQR) was 27–34 weeks. A total of 32 (34.8%) children were referred for restless sleep and 55 (59.8%) for snoring. After polysomnography, 18% were found to have a PLMS index >5/h, and 14% fit the criteria for restless sleep disorder (RSD). There were no statistically significant differences in PSG parameters among the children with RSD, PLMS, and the remaining group, except for lower obstructive apnea/hypopnea index (Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA 8.621, p = 0.0135) in the RSD group (median 0.7, IQR 0.3–0.9) than in the PLMS (median 1.7, IQR 0.7–3.5) or the non-RSD/non-PLMS (median 2.0, IQR 0.8–4.5) groups. Conclusions: There was an elevated frequency of RSD and elevated PLMS in our cohort of children born prematurely. Children born prematurely are at higher risk of iron deficiency which can be a contributor factor to sleep -related movement disorders. These results add new knowledge regarding the prevalence of RSD and PLMS in these children.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine)
Open AccessArticle
Impact of Interleukin-17 Receptor A Gene Variants on Asthma Susceptibility and Clinical Manifestations in Children and Adolescents
by
Shymaa Ahmed Maher, Nouran B. AbdAllah, Essam Al Ageeli, Eman Riad, Shahad W. Kattan, Sherouk Abdelaal, Wagdy Abdelfatah, Gehan A. Ibrahim, Eman A. Toraih, Ghada A. Awadalla, Manal S. Fawzy and Ahmed Ibrahim
Children 2024, 11(6), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060657 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in multiple interleukin receptor genes could be associated with asthma risk and/or phenotype. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) has been implicated in tissue inflammation and autoimmune diseases. As no previous studies have uncovered the potential role of IL17 receptor A (
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Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in multiple interleukin receptor genes could be associated with asthma risk and/or phenotype. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) has been implicated in tissue inflammation and autoimmune diseases. As no previous studies have uncovered the potential role of IL17 receptor A (RA) gene variants in asthma risk, we aimed to explore the association of four IL17RA SNPs (i.e., rs4819554A/G, rs879577C/T, rs41323645G/A, and rs4819555C/T) with asthma susceptibility/phenotype in our region. TaqMan allelic discrimination analysis was used to genotype 192 individuals. We found that the rs4819554 G/G genotype significantly reduced disease risk in the codominant (OR = 0.15, 95%CI = 0.05–0.45, p < 0.001), dominant (OR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.26–0.93, p = 0.028), and recessive (OR = 0.18, 95%CI = 0.07–0.52, p < 0.001) models. Similarly, rs879577 showed reduced disease risk associated with the T allele across all genetic models. However, the A allele of rs41323645 was associated with increased disease risk in all models. The G/A and A/A genotypes have higher ORs of 2.47 (95%CI = 1.19–5.14) and 3.86 (95%CI = 1.62–9.18), respectively. Similar trends are observed in the dominant 2.89 (95%CI = 1.47–5.68, p = 0.002) and recessive 2.34 (95%CI = 1.10–4.98, p = 0.025) models. For the rs4819555 variant, although there was no significant association identified under any models, carriers of the rs4819554*A demonstrated an association with a positive family history of asthma (71.4% in carriers vs. 27% in non-carriers; p = 0.025) and the use of relievers for >2 weeks (52.2% of carriers vs. 28.8% of non-carriers; p = 0.047). Meanwhile, the rs4819555*C carriers displayed a significant divergence in the asthma phenotype, specifically atopic asthma (83.3% vs. 61.1%; p = 0.007), showed a higher prevalence of chest tightness (88.9% vs. 61.5%; p = 0.029), and were more likely to report comorbidities (57.7% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.003). The most frequent haplotype in the asthma group was ACAC, with a frequency of 22.87% vs. 1.36% in the controls (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the studied IL17RA variants could be essential in asthma susceptibility and phenotype in children and adolescents.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Pathophysiological Mechanisms Underlying Asthma and Allergy in Children)
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Adolescents’ Awareness of Seat Belt Use and the Relationship with Risky Behaviors
by
Hatice Topal, Sadettin Burak Açıkel, Hülya Şirin, Emine Polat, Harun Terin, Mehmet Mustafa Yılmaz and Saliha Şenel
Children 2024, 11(6), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11060656 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The one of the leading causes of adolescent morbidity and mortality worldwide is motor vehicle accidents (MVA). The use of seat belts significantly lowers MVA fatalities and injuries. The aim of this study is to investigate adolescent seat belt usage patterns and relation
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The one of the leading causes of adolescent morbidity and mortality worldwide is motor vehicle accidents (MVA). The use of seat belts significantly lowers MVA fatalities and injuries. The aim of this study is to investigate adolescent seat belt usage patterns and relation with risky behaviors. The study conducted at two medical institutions with non-immigrant and literate adolescents aged 12–18. Demographics, seat belt use, and risk-taking behavior were collected through questionnaires. 726 teenagers (422 girls and 304 boys) with an average age of 176.7 ± 23.37 months participated in the study. Parents’ educational levels and front-seat belt use have been found to be correlated. Comparatively to non-users, seat belt users demonstrated lower risk scores (total, traffic, substance, and social). The use of seat belts was significantly predicted by traffic risk, according to logistic regression. The frequency of seatbelt use was higher among participants from cities with higher socioeconomic status. As a result, it was found that adolescents who exhibited more risky behaviors had a lower frequency of seat belt use and seat belt use was associated with socioeconomic level and parental education level. It is thought that population-based studies to be conducted on this subject are important.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
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