Announcements

We are honored to introduce the award committee for the 2024 Tu Youyou Award, composed of distinguished scientists from around the world whose research covers diverse areas of natural product chemistry, pharmacognosy, and drug discovery. Their broad expertise and pioneering contributions have significantly advanced medicinal and natural products research.

Through their collective insights, rigorous evaluation, the committee has carefully selected this year’s award recipients, recognizing exceptional achievements in the field.

We sincerely thank these distinguished scholars for their efforts and dedication to upholding the standards of the Tu Youyou Award.  Below is the list of committee members. For more information about the Tu Youyou Award, please visit https://tuyouyouprize.org/. 

Chair:

Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn Ohio State University, USA

Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn is a leading expert in pharmacognosy and natural products research. He is recognized for his key contributions to discovering bioactive compounds from plants, especially in anticancer, cancer chemopreventive, and substances with a sweet taste and taste-modifying agents. His prolific contributions include over 590 peer-reviewed works and book chapters and edited or co-edited 40 scientific volumes.

Prof. Angelo Fontana University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy	Angelo Fontana is a Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Naples “Federico II” in Italy and serves as Director of the Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry at the National Research Council (CNR). His research focuses on bioactive small molecules derived from marine eukaryotes, with a particular interest on their pharmaceutical applications in immunology and oncology. He also explores their potential as molecular tools for probing and modulating complex biological systems. Prof. Fontana is a co-founder of BioSEArch SRL and has been recognized with numerous grants and honors, including the Apivita Award from the Phytochemical Society of Europe.
Prof. Binghe Wang Georgia State University, USA	Prof. Binghe Wang’s lab works on drug design, drug delivery, click chemistry, chemical biology, new diagnostics, and gaseous signaling molecules such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide. His interdisciplinary research supports advances in cancer, infectious diseases, organ protection, inflammation, and other areas.
Dr. Diana Pinto University of Aveiro, Portugal	Dr. Diana Pinto, an Associate Professor at the University of Aveiro, specializes in organic synthesis of bioactive heterocyclic compounds, sustainable catalysis (organo-, heterogeneous, and biocatalysis), and natural product research, including isolation, characterization, and total synthesis.
Prof. Hideaki Kakeya Kyoto University, Japan	Prof. Hideaki Kakeya conducts cutting-edge research in chemical biology, high-throughput screening, and biosynthesis of bioactive natural products for system chemotherapy and other therapeutic applications.
Dr. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel University of Strathclyde, UK	Prof. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel heads the Natural Products Metabolomics Group (NPMG), specializing in marine natural products discovery and metabolomics-driven drug development. A recognized expert in bioactive metabolites, she collaborates with industry and academia to address antimicrobial resistance and sustainable bioprospecting. She serves on the Editorial Board of Marine Drugs and holds two patents in the field.
Prof. Thomas Prisinzano University of Kentucky, USA	Prof. Thomas Prisinzano combines medicinal and natural product chemistry to explore neurotransmitter systems and develop treatments for drug abuse and pain. He has received several prestigious awards, including the Innovator Award from the College on Problems of Drug Dependence.
Prof. Wei Li University of Tennessee Health Science Center, USA	A distinguished professor and Director of the Drug Discovery Center, Prof. Wei Li is also the founder of SEAK Therapeutics, and the 2025 Chair-Elect of the Drug Discovery and Development Division of the American Society of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET). His work focuses on medicinal chemistry and small molecule drug discovery, with over 200 publications and 15 issued US patents.

The World Day for Safety and Health at Work, observed annually on 28 April, is a global initiative by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to promote safe and healthy working environments. This day emphasizes the importance of preventing workplace accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases by encouraging strong safety policies, risk management, and adherence to international labor standards. It serves as a reminder that workplace safety is a fundamental right and highlights the need for global collaboration between governments, employers, and workers to create sustainable and secure working conditions. By raising awareness and fostering a culture of prevention, this day helps reduce workplace hazards, enhance productivity, and protect workers' well-being worldwide.

We invite you to explore our selected articles, Special Issues and journals which span fields such as occupational health and workplace psychology, medical and healthcare research, public and environmental health, psychology and well-being, biotechnology and health sciences and occupational safety and risk management.

“Harnessing Gut Microbiota for Biomimetic in Innovations in Health and Biotechnology”
by Ana Isabel Beltrán-Velasco and Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
Biomimetics 2025, 10(2), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10020073

“Lost Work Due to Burn-Related Disability in a US Working Population”
by Jacob M. Dougherty, Hannan A. Maqsood, Christopher J. Rittle, Eva S. Blake, Zhaohui Fan, Bryant W. Oliphant, Mark R. Hemmila and Naveen F. Sangji
Eur. Burn J. 2024, 5(4), 464-473; https://doi.org/10.3390/ebj5040041

“Understanding the Second Victim Phenomenon Among Healthcare Workers in an Italian Hospital”
by Raffaella Sedile, Antonella Zizza, Luca Bastiani, Eugenia Carluccio, Marinella Marrazzi, Tommaso Bellandi and Giorgio O. Spagnolo
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(12), 3073-3086; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14120201

“Characterising the Chemical Composition of Bushfire Smoke and Implications for Firefighter Exposure in Western Australia”
by Kiam Padamsey, Adelle Liebenberg, Ruth Wallace and Jacques Oosthuizen
Fire 2024, 7(11), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire7110388

“Working Conditions for Burns Resident Doctors—Better Now than Ever?”
by Grant Coleman, Toby Austin, James F. Forrest and Sarah E. Bache
Eur. Burn J. 2024, 5(4), 309-320; https://doi.org/10.3390/ebj5040029

“Examining Management and Employees’ Perceptions of Occupational Heat Exposure and the Effectiveness of a Heat Stress Prevention Intervention on Safety and Well-Being among Natural Gas Construction Workers: A Qualitative Field-Based Study”
by Muinat Abolore Idris, Christine Markham, Kristina D. Mena and William B. Perkison
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(9), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21091255

“Imbalance between Employees and the Organisational Context: A Catalyst for Workplace Bullying Behaviours in Both Targets and Perpetrators”
by Gülüm Özer and Jordi Escartín
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090751

“Occupational Health, Psychosocial Risks and Prevention Factors in Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and Other Populations: A Narrative Review”
by António Oliveira, Henrique Pereira and Felipe Alckmin-Carvalh
Societies 2024, 14(8), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14080136

“Assessing the Relationship between Physical Activity and Depression in Lawyers and Law Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Study”
by Chapman Cox, Matthew S. These and Joseph A. Allen
Merits 2024, 4(3), 238-250; https://doi.org/10.3390/merits4030017

“Unlocking the Transformative Potential of Outdoor Office Work—A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study”
by Charlotte Petersson Troije, Ebba Lisberg Jensen, David Redmalm and Lena Wiklund Gustin
Challenges 2024, 15(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/challe15020025

“Association between Workplace Bullying, Job Stress, and Professional Quality of Life in Nurses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”
by Petros Galanis, Ioannis Moisoglou, Aglaia Katsiroumpa and Maria Mastrogianni
Healthcare 2024, 12(6), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12060623

“Life Satisfaction, Courage, and Career Adaptability in a Group of Italian Workers”
by Sara Santilli, Isabella Valbusa, Barbara Rinaldi and Maria Cristina Ginevra
Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(2), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13020106

“COVID-19’s Impact on Medical Staff Wellbeing: Investigating Trauma and Resilience in a Longitudinal Study—Are Doctors Truly Less Vulnerable Than Nurses?”
by Joseph Mendlovic, Idan Haklay, Roxanne Elliott and Mooli Lahad
Trauma Care 2023, 3(3), 185-201; https://doi.org/10.3390/traumacare3030018

“Job Satisfaction and Mental Health of Workers: Second Edition” Guest Editor: Prof. Dr. Vincenza Capone Submission deadline: 31 January 2026	“Job Stress and Burnout: Emerging Issues in Today’s Workplace” Guest Editors: Dr. Adrian Garcia Selva and Prof. Dr. Beatriz Martin del Rio Submission deadline: 31 December 2025
“Workplace Health and Wellbeing” Guest Editor: Dr. Abigail Morris Submission deadline: 10 October 2025	“Industrial Fires and Explosions: Risk Assessment, Prevention, Detection, Mitigation and Impact” Guest Editors: Dr. Tomasz Jarosz and Dr. Agnieszka Stolarczyk Submission deadline: 30 September 2025
“Recent Advances in Wearable Bioelectronics in Healthcare/Medical Devices”	“Occupational Health and Prevention of Work-Related Diseases”
“Organizational Strategies to Combat Workplace Bullying and Foster Inclusion”	“Positive Resources to Promote Well Being in Educational and Work Contexts and in Career Trajectories”

The 2025 Annual Congress of the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR 2025) is a four-day congress dedicated to basic, preclinical, and translational cancer research across a wide breadth of topics. The conference will highlight the latest research and bring together members of the cancer research community to stimulate innovation and build knowledge, connections, and collaborations.

The following MDPI journals will be represented at the conference:

• Cancers;
• IJMS;
• Marine Drugs;
• Biomedicines;
• Healthcare;
• CIMB;
• Cells;
• Current Oncology;
• JPM;
• Neurology International;
• DNA.

If you are planning to attend the above conference, please feel free to start an online conversation with us. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person at booth #86 and answering any questions that you may have.

For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://2025.eacr.org.

World Malaria Day, observed annually on 25 April, is a global reminder of the urgent need to stay focused on the fight against malaria—a preventable and treatable disease that still threatens millions of lives, especially in vulnerable communities. Despite considerable progress over the past two decades, malaria continues to take a heavy toll, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where children under five remain at most risk.

The theme for 2025, “Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite”, is a powerful call to action. It is a strong reminder that the fight against malaria is not over, and that the power to end it lies with all of us.

In recognition of this vital cause, MDPI is spotlighting impactful research across a selection of its journals, highlighting contributions that advance the understanding, prevention, and treatment of malaria. Featured journals include Cells, Insects, Journal of Clinical Medicine (JCM), Metabolites, Parasitologia, Pathogens, Pharmaceuticals, Reports, and TropicalMed. By bringing these articles to the forefront, MDPI reaffirms its commitment to open access knowledge and global health equity.

Prof. Tu Youyou was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2015 for discovering artemisinin, a drug that has significantly reduced the mortality rates for patients suffering from malaria.

To honor Prof. Tu Youyou’s remarkable contributions and to continue with her achievements, MDPI established the Tu Youyou Award in 2016. This award aims to acknowledge exceptional scholars committed to the research fields of natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

The winners of the 2024 Tu Youyou Award will be announced on 30 April. Visit the award website for the latest updates!

“Blood Source and Anesthetics Effects on the Maintenance of Anopheles darlingi in the Lab-Rearing Condition”
by José Daniel Costa Pontual, Natália Vitória Coelho, Najara Akira Costa dos Santos, Alessandra da Silva Bastos, Jéssica Evangelista Araújo, Alice Oliveira Andrade, Jansen Fernandes Medeiros and Maisa da Silva Araujo
Insects 2025, 16(3), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16030281

“Identification of Bioactive Metabolites of Capirona macrophylla by Metabolomic Analysis, Molecular Docking, and In Vitro Antiparasitic Assays”
by Joseph Evaristo, Elise de Laia, Bruna Tavares, Esdras Mendonça, Larissa Grisostenes, Caroline Rodrigues, Welington do Nascimento, Carolina Garcia, Sheila Guterres, Fábio Nogueira et al.
Metabolites 2025, 15(3), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15030157

“Duplication of a Type-P5B-ATPase in Laverania and Avian Malaria Parasites and Implications About the Evolution of Plasmodium”
by Mark F. Wiser
Parasitologia 2025, 5(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/parasitologia5010006

“Effect of Health Education Intervention on Knowledge and Adherence to Intermittent Preventive Treatment of Malaria in Pregnancy Among Women”
by Pauline N. Atser, Gommaa Hayat and Uchenna B. Okafor
Healthcare 2025, 13(2), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13020105

“Uncovering the Mechanism of Action of Antiprotozoal Agents: A Survey on Photoaffinity Labeling Strategy”
by Alessandro Giraudo, Cristiano Bolchi, Marco Pallavicini, Roberto Di Santo, Roberta Costi and Francesco Saccoliti
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18010028

“Contribution of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies to the Understanding of Cerebral Malaria Pathogenesis”
by Alicia Comino Garcia-Munoz, Isabelle Varlet, Georges Emile Grau, Teodora-Adriana Perles-Barbacaru and Angèle Viola
Pathogens 2024, 13(12), 1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13121042

“Prophylaxis Failure and Successful Management of Delayed-Onset Malaria with Renal Complications: A Case Report with Oral Artemether-Lumefantrine Treatment”
by Ilir Tolaj, Gramoz Bunjaku, Murat Mehmeti and Yllka Begolli
Reports 2023, 6(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports6040053

“Sensitivity Assessment of a Multiplex and Real-Time PCR Protocols for the Detection of Malaria in External Quality Control Samples in the Malaria Reference Center in Greece”
by Nikolaos Tegos, Christos Goumenopoulos, Anastasia Mpimpa, Vasilios Papavasilopoulos, Stavroula Beleri and Eleni Patsoula
Parasitologia 2024, 4(2), 150-161; https://doi.org/10.3390/parasitologia4020013

“Prevention of Malaria in Pregnant Women and Its Effects on Maternal and Child Health, the Case of Centre Hospitalier de Kingasani II in the Democratic Republic of the Congo”
by Japhet Kabalu Tshiongo, Trésor Zola Matuvanga, Patrick Mitashi, Vivi Maketa, Henk D. F. H. Schallig, Petra F. Mens, Hypolite Muhindo Mavoko and Junior Matangila Rika
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050092

“An Epidemiological Survey of Malaria Infection in Espírito Santo State, Brazil, from 2007 to 2017”
by Nayna Carvalho Oliveira, Lais Rosa Boscalha, Cinthia Emerich Toledo, Felipe Sarlo Pezzin, Bruno Costanza Cisari, Suellen Rodrigues Maran, Laís Rodrigues Diniz, Pedro Henrique Schultz Corcino Freitas, Adenilton Cruzeiro, Frederico Eutropio et al.
Parasitologia 2023, 3(3), 215-222; https://doi.org/10.3390/parasitologia3030022

“Low Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum Histidine-Rich Protein 2 and 3 Gene Deletions—A Multiregional Study in Central and West Africa”
by Tina Krueger, Moses Ikegbunam, Abel Lissom, Thaisa Lucas Sandri, Jacques Dollon Mbama Ntabi, Jean Claude Djontu, Marcel Tapsou Baina, Roméo Aimé Laclong Lontchi, Moustapha Maloum, Givina Zang Ella et al.
Pathogens 2023, 12(3), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12030455

“Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Malaria Control in Africa: A Preliminary Analysis”
by Liping Gao, Qi Shi, Zhiguo Liu, Zhenjun Li and Xiaoping Dong
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8010067

On 17 April 2025, the global bleeding disorders community will come together to celebrate World Hemophilia Day. This year’s theme is “Access for all: Women and girls bleed too”.

Currently, women and girls with bleeding disorders (WGBDs) are still underdiagnosed and underserved. The global bleeding disorders community has the power—and the responsibility—to change this. Through recognition, diagnosis, treatment, and care, the quality of life of women and girls will improve, strengthening the community as a whole.

We would like to recommend some related articles, Special Issues, and MDPI journals as suitable communication platforms and believe that sharing research like this can help raise awareness of Hemophilia Day.

“Managing Surgical Risks in Hemophilic Elbow Arthropathy: An In-Depth Case Study and Literature Review”
by Gianluigi Pasta, Salvatore Annunziata, Roberta Ruggieri, Dario Abruzzi, Paolo Arrigoni, Eugenio Jannelli, Francesco Benazzo, Luisella Pedrotti, Erika Maria Viola, Emérito Carlos Rodriguez-Merchan and Mario Mosconi
Healthcare 2024, 12(17), 1776; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12171776

“Better Communication for Better Management of Persons with Hemophilia: Results from a Patients’-Clinicians’ Project to Address the New Therapeutic Landscape”
by Laura Banov, Silvia Linari, Luigi Ambroso, Enrico Ferri Grazzi, Samanta Gallo, Patrizio Pasqualetti and Maria Elisa Mancuso
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(2), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13020568

“Six-Year, Real-World Use of Prophylaxis with Recombinant Factor IX–Albumin Fusion Protein (rIX-FP) in Persons with Hemophilia B: A Single-Center Retrospective–Prospective Study”
by Antonio Coppola, Gianna Franca Rivolta, Gabriele Quintavalle, Annalisa Matichecchia, Federica Riccardi, Rossana Rossi, Anna Benegiamo, Paola Ranalli, Valeria Coluccio and Annarita Tagliaferri
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(5), 1518; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13051518

“Thalassemia: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Advances in Treatment”
by Idris Zubairu Sadiq, Fatima Sadiq Abubakar, Hauwa Salisu Usman, Aliyu Dantani Abdullahi, Bashiru Ibrahim, Babangida Sanusi Kastayal, Maryam Ibrahim and Hassan Aliyu Hassan
Thalass. Rep. 2024, 14(4), 81-102; https://doi.org/10.3390/thalassrep14040010

“Haemophilia A: A Review of Clinical Manifestations, Treatment, Mutations, and the Development of Inhibitors”
by Sarmiento Doncel, Samuel, Gina Alejandra Díaz Mosquera, Javier Mauricio Cortes, Carol Agudelo Rico, Francisco Javier Meza Cadavid and Ronald Guillermo Peláez
Hematol. Rep. 2023, 15(1), 130-150; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep15010014

“Ultrasound Evaluation of Tendinopathy in Hemophiliac Patients for the Purpose of Rehabilitation Indications”
by Danilo Donati, Paolo Spinnato, Lelia Valdrè, Lydia Piscitelli, Giuseppina Mariagrazia Farella, Enrico Pagliarulo and Maria Grazia Benedetti
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(13), 4513; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12134513

“Safe and Successful Surgical Outcome in Persons with Hemophilia A with and without Inhibitors Treated with Emicizumab: A Large, Single Center, Real-World Experience”
by Giancarlo Castaman, Silvia Linari, Lisa Pieri, Christian Carulli, Paolo Prosperi, Paolo Tonelli, Francesco Demartis, Rajmonda Fjerza, Monica Attanasio, Mirella Coppo and Francesca Salvianti
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(6), 2317; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12062317

“A Retrospective Analysis of the American Thrombosis and Hemostasis Network Dataset Describing Outcomes of Dental Extractions in Persons with Hemophilia”
by Heather Messenger, Roshni Kulkarni, Michael Recht and Chunla He
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(5), 1839; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12051839

“Laboratory Rat Thrombi Lose One-Third of Their Stiffness When Exposed to Large Oscillating Shear Stress Amplitudes: Contrasting Behavior to Human Clots”
by Ursula Windberger, Veronika Glanz and Leon Ploszczanski
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2022, 2(3), 332-344; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm2030026

World Chagas Disease Day 2025 brings global attention to one of the most neglected tropical diseases, reinforcing our collective responsibility to “leave no one behind” in the pursuit of health equity.

Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, affects over 7 million people worldwide—primarily among poor and underserved communities in Latin America, but with increasing prevalence in non-endemic regions due to migration and globalization. Often progressing without symptoms in its early stages, Chagas is known as a “silent and silenced disease”, leading to potentially fatal cardiac and digestive complications if left untreated. Despite its growing global impact, awareness and access to diagnosis and treatment remain limited.

To change the trajectory of Chagas disease, we must foster multidisciplinary collaboration across research, clinical practice, and public policy. From early detection and vector control to treatment access and patient-centered care, every stakeholder has a role to play. Health systems must adapt to address not only the biological and clinical dimensions of the disease but also the social and economic determinants that perpetuate its neglect.

In recognition of World Chagas Disease Day 2025, we invite you to explore a curated collection of articles and Special Issues from selected MDPI journals, including Insects, Pathogens, Microorganisms, Parasitologia, Diseases, Healthcare, and TropicalMed. These resources offer vital perspectives on the epidemiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Chagas disease, while also encouraging cross-sector collaboration. Through scientific engagement and public awareness, we can work together toward the goal: early detection, equitable care, and the eventual elimination of Chagas disease.

 “Development and Characterization of Innovative Nifurtimox Formulations as Therapeutic Alternative for Chagas Disease”
by Ana Lia Mazzeti, Karolina Ribeiro Gonçalves, Patrícia Ferreira Boasquivis, Maria Terezinha Bahia and Vanessa Carla Furtado Mosqueira
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2025, 10(2), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10020050

“Molecular Characterization of Trypanosoma cruzi from Triatomine Species in São Paulo State, an Area Free of Vector-Borne Chagas Disease”
by Eliana Ferreira Monteiro, Rubens Antonio da Silva, Arlei Marcili and Karin Kirchgatter
Insects 2025, 16(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020161

“The Impact of Environmental and Housing Factors on the Distribution of Triatominae (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) in an Endemic Area of Chagas Disease in Puebla, Mexico”
by Miguel Ortega-Caballero, Maria Cristina Gonzalez-Vazquez, Miguel Angel Hernández-Espinosa, Alejandro Carabarin-Lima and Alia Mendez-Albores
Diseases 2024, 12(10), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases12100238

“Zoonotic Cycle of American Trypanosomiasis in an Endemic Region of the Argentine Chaco, Factors That Influenced a Paradigm Shift”
by Andrea Gómez-Bravo, Sebastián Cirignoli, Diana Wehrendt, Alejandro Schijman, Cielo M. León, María Flores-Chaves, Javier Nieto, Troy J. Kieran, Marcelo Abril and Felipe Guhl
Insects 2024, 15(7), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070471

“Mapping the Silent Threat: A Comprehensive Analysis of Chagas Disease Occurrence in Riverside Communities in the Western Amazon”
by Daniela da Silva Paixão, Fernanda Portela Madeira, Adila Costa de Jesus, Hêmilly Caroline da Silva Paixão, Juliana de Souza Almeida Aranha Camargo, Mariane Albuquerque Lima Ribeiro, Leandro José Ramos, Jader de Oliveira, João Aristeu da Rosa, Paulo Sérgio Bernarde et al.
Pathogens 2024, 13(2), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13020176

“Chagas Disease in Europe”
by Marta Gonzalez-Sanz, Clara Crespillo-Andújar, Sandra Chamorro-Tojeiro, Begoña Monge-Maillo, Jose A. Perez-Molina and Francesca F. Norman
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(12), 513; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8120513

“Impact of Laboratory-Adapted Intracellular Trypanosoma cruzi Strains on the Activity Profiles of Compounds with Anti-T. cruzi Activity”
by Melissa L. Sykes, Emily K. Kennedy and Vicky M. Avery
Microorganisms 2023, 11(2), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms11020476

“A Review on the Immunological Response against Trypanosoma cruzi”
by Martje Van Neste, Annick Bogaerts, Nina Nauwelaerts, Julia Macente, Anne Smits, Pieter Annaert and Karel Allegaert
Pathogens 2023, 12(2), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens12020282

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)
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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.