Early-onset neonatal sepsis as a risk factor for peri-intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants / Sepse precoce como fator de risco para hemorragia peri-intraventricular em prematuros

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess early-onset sepsis as a risk factor of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation and admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Methods: This retrospective cohort study included premature patients born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation who were admitted to the NICU of a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, and born from January 2017 to July 2021. Data were collected from patients' medical records. Early-onset sepsis was measured according to the presence or absence of diagnosis within the first 72 hours of life, whereas the outcome, peri-intraventricular hemorrhage, was described as the presence or absence of hemorrhage, regardless of its grade. Results: Hazard ratios were calculated using Cox regression models. A total of 487 patients were included in the study, of which 169 (34.7%) had some degree of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage. Early-onset sepsis was present in 41.6% of the cases of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage, which revealed a significant association between these variables, with increased risk of the outcome in the presence of sepsis. In the final multivariate model, the hazard ratio for early-onset sepsis was 1.52 (95% confidence interval 1.01-2.27). Conclusion: Early-onset sepsis and the use of surfactants showed to increase the occurrence of the outcome in premature children born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation. Meanwhile, factors such as antenatal corticosteroids and gestational age closer to 34 weeks' gestations were found to reduce the risk of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a sepse precoce como fator de risco para hemorragia peri-intraventricular (HPIV) em prematuros com 34 semanas ou menos, admitidos em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) Neonatal. Métodos: Este estudo de coorte retrospectivo incluiu pacientes prematuros com 34 semanas ou menos, que receberam alta da UTI Neonatal de hospital terciário, no sul do Brasil, nascidos no período de janeiro de 2017 a julho de 2021. Os dados foram coletados por meio dos prontuários desses pacientes. A sepse precoce foi mensurada conforme a presença ou a ausência do diagnóstico nas primeiras 72 horas de vida. Já o desfecho, hemorragia peri-intraventricular, foi descrito conforme a presença ou ausência da hemorragia, independentemente do grau. Resultados: Hazard ratios (HR) foram calculados por meio de modelos de regressão de Cox. Foram incluídos no estudo 487 pacientes. Destes, 169 (34,7%) apresentaram algum grau de hemorragia peri-intraventricular. A sepse precoce esteve presente em 41,6% dos casos de hemorragia peri-intraventricular e apresentou associação significativa, elevando o risco do desfecho quando presente. No modelo multivariável final, o HR para a sepse precoce foi de 1,52 (intervalo de confiança de 95% — IC95% 1,01-2,27). Conclusão: Sepse precoce e uso de surfactante demonstraram aumentar a ocorrência do desfecho em crianças prematuras até 34 semanas, enquanto fatores como corticoide antenatal e idades gestacionais mais próximas a 34 semanas mostraram reduzir o risco de ocorrência hemorragia peri-intraventricular.

Energy Dense Feeding in Premature Infants and Its’ Associated Outcomes (Pemakanan Tumpat Tenaga dalam Bayi Pramatang dan Kesan Berkaitan) / Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia

@#COVID-19 infection in pregnant mothers is associated with higher risk of intrauterine growth retardation and premature births. Very low birth weight infants are more susceptible to neurodevelopmental and chronic respiratory problems. An infant delivered at 33 weeks via caesarean section to a COVID-19 Stage 5A positive mother, weighing 1.43kg at birth. She was kept nil by mouth with parenteral nutrition (PN) support since day five of life until referred to dietitian on day 22 of life for enteral nutrition (EN) establishment. Feeding was administered intermittently via oro-gastric Ryles tube. She was kept under non-invasive ventilation (NIV) mode and had difficulty in weaning from ventilation, leading to slow feeding progress. Initially, enteral trophic feeding was administered using premature infant formula fortified with modular products. In the later stage of feeding, modular products were tapered off and the formula was concentrated. Frequency of bowel output when using fortified formula is lesser compared to when using concentrated and supplemented formula. There is no significant difference in renal profile observed in both stages of feeding. Increasing energy intake using easily digestible sources is preferable as opposed to concentrating feeds even further due to concerns about osmolality and excess administration of other solutes. Intermittent bolus feeding mode may have an effect on dependency on oxygen since intermittent feeds can decrease tidal volume, minute ventilation and dynamic compliance. Additional research is necessary to establish optimal caloric density and nutritional compositions of feedings, feeding mechanisms and its’ effect on feeding tolerance.

Óbitos neonatais por enterocolite necrosante: estudo de coorte retrospectiva / Neonatal deaths from necrotizing enterocolitis: a retrospective cohort study / Muertes neonatales por enterocolitis necrozante: estudio de cohorte retrospectivo

Introdução:A enterocolite necrosante é uma doença que pode afetar o trato gastrointestinal de recém-nascidos,cujas manifestações clínicas podem ser caracterizadas por vômitos biliosos, sangue nas fezes, distensão abdominal, além de alterações nos parâmetros hemodinâmicos e instabilidade térmica. As populações mais vulneráveis a essa enfermidade são recém-nascidos de baixo peso,expostos ao ambiente de terapia intensiva neonatal. Objetivos: Identificar o perfil de recém-nascidos e os fatores maternos e neonatais associados à ocorrência de óbitos por enterocolite necrosante, em maternidade de referência do Ceará-Brasil. Metodologia: Trata-se de coorte retrospectiva, estudo que objetiva a descrição da incidência de determinado evento ao longo do tempo, além do estabelecimento de relações causais entre os fatores associados ao acontecimento. Incluíram-serecém-nascidos que tiveram óbitos por enterocolite necrosante entre 2019 e 2021, comficha de investigação de óbitos neonatais preenchida corretamente, não sendo excluído nenhum recém-nascido, totalizando amostra de 29 óbitos.Resultados: Identificou-se que o perfil dos recém-nascidos foi,em maioria, deprematuros e com baixo peso e fatores de risco para outras doenças associadas,como a sepse, o que acarretourealização de procedimentos invasivos e internação em ambiente de terapia intensiva neonatal.Conclusões: A prematuridade e o baixo peso ao nascer foram as variáveis relevantes no estudo e podem estar associadas à piora das condições clínicas do recém-nascido e ao desenvolvimento de enterocolite necrosante (AU).

Introduction: Necrotizing Enterocolitis is a disease that can affect the gastrointestinal tract of newborns, whose clinical manifestations can be characterized by bilious vomiting, blood in stool, abdominal distension, in addition to changes in hemodynamic parameters and thermal instability. The populations most vulnerable to this disease are low birth weight newborns exposed to the neonatal intensive care environment. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the profile of newborns and maternal and neonatal factors associated with the occurrence of deaths from necrotizing enterocolitis in a reference maternity hospital in Ceará, Brazil. Methodology: This is a retrospective cohort study seeking to describe the incidence ofa particular event over time, as well as establish causal relationships between the factors associated with the event. The study population comprised newborns who died from necrotizing enterocolitis between 2019 and 2021, who had neonatal death investigation forms filled out correctly, with no newborns being excluded, totaling a sample of 29 deaths. Results: It was identified that the profile of newborns was mostly premature, of low birth weight and with risk factors for other associated diseases such as sepsis, leading to invasive procedures and hospitalization in a neonatal intensive care environment. Conclusions: Prematurity and low birth weight were relevant variables in the study and may be associated with worsening of the newborn's clinical conditionsand development of necrotizing enterocolitis (AU).

ntroducción:La Enterocolitis Necrotizante es enfermedad que puede afectar el tracto gastrointestinal del recién nacido, cuyas manifestaciones clínicas pueden caracterizarse por vómitos biliosos, sangre en las heces, distensión abdominal, además de cambios en los parámetros hemodinámicos e inestabilidad térmica.Las poblaciones más vulnerables a esta enfermedad son recién nacidos con bajo peso expuestos al entorno de cuidados intensivos neonatales.Objetivos: Identificar el perfil de recién nacidos y los factores maternos y neonatales asociados a la ocurrencia de muertes por enterocolitis necrotizante, en maternidad de referencia en el Ceará-Brasil.Metodología: Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo, para describir la incidencia de determinado evento a lo largo del tiempo, además de establecer relaciones causales entre los factores asociados al evento.Se incluyeron recién nacidos fallecidos por enterocolitis necrotizante entre 2019 y 2021, quienes tuvieron formulario de investigación de muerte neonatal correctamente diligenciado, no excluyéndose ningún recién nacido, totalizando muestra de 29 defunciones.Resultados:El perfil de los recién nacidos fue mayoritariamente prematuro y de bajo peso al nacer y con factores de riesgo para otras enfermedades asociadas, como sepsis, con procedimientos invasivos y hospitalización en ambiente de cuidados intensivosneonatales.Conclusiones:La prematuridad y el bajo peso al nacer fueron variables relevantes en el estudio y pueden estar asociados con empeoramiento de las condiciones clínicas de recién nacidos y desarrollo de enterocolitis necrotizante (AU).

Características clínicas y epidemiológicas de madres con recién nacidos prematuros y de bajo peso / Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of mothers with preterm and low weight infants i: en

Introducción: El parto prematuro y el bajo peso al nacer constituyen un problema de salud a escala mundial, ya que representan un predictor importante del desarrollo y crecimiento posnatal, así como un indicador de morbilidad y mortalidad infantil. Objetivo: Caracterizar a madres con recién nacidos prematuros y de bajo peso según variables clínicas y epidemiológicas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, de corte transversal, desde enero hasta diciembre de 2022, de 35 madres con recién nacidos prematuros y de bajo peso, pertenecientes al Policlínico Docente Área Este de la ciudad de Camagüey. Entre las variables analizadas figuraron: edad, estado nutricional, clasificación del riesgo, control prenatal, riesgo reproductivo preconcepcional, consulta multidisciplinaria, enfermedades propias del embarazo, estado al nacer, deficiencias detectadas y causas. Resultados: En la serie predominaron el grupo etario de 35 y más años (25,7 %), la obesidad (37,1 %), las madres con elevados riesgos (45,7 %), quienes recibieron entre 8-14 controles prenatales, y malos antecedentes obstétricos (31,4 %). Por otra parte, 22,9 % de las madres tuvieron hijos con bajo peso y 31,4 %, prematuros; en tanto, hubo dificultades en el seguimiento por ausencias (57,1 %). Conclusiones: Las madres presentaron características clínicas y epidemiológicas desfavorables, tales como la edad de 35 y más años, la obesidad, el alto riesgo, los malos antecedentes obstétricos y la infección vaginal como enfermedad propia del embarazo, que influyeron en que los neonatos fueran prematuros o de bajo peso, o ambos.

Introduction: Preterm birth and low birth weight constitute a health problem worldwide, since they represent an important predictor of development and postnatal growth, as well as an indicator of newborn morbidity and mortality. Objective: To characterize mothers with preterm and low weight infants according to clinical and epidemiological variables. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out from January to December, 2022, of 35 mothers with preterm and low weight infants, belonging to the East Area Teaching Polyclinic in Camagüey city. Age, nutritional state, risk classification, prenatal control, preconcepcional reproductive risk, multidisciplinary visits, diseases characteristic of pregnancy, birth state, detected deficiencies and causes were among the analyzed variables. Results: In the series there was prevalence of the 35 and over age group (25.7%), obesity (37.1%), high risk mothers (45.7%) who received among 8-14 prenatal controls, and bad obstetric history (31.4%). On the other hand, 22.9% of the mothers had low weight children and 31.4% preterm children; as long as there were difficulties in follow up due to absences (57.1%). Conclusions: The mothers presented unfavorable clinical and epidemiological characteristics, such as the 35 and over years, obesity, high risk, bad obstetric history and vaginal infection as a disease characteristic of pregnancy, which influenced the infants to be preterm or low weight, or both.

Restrição do crescimento intrauterino, prematuridade e baixo peso ao nascer: fenótipos de risco de morte neonatal, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Restricción del crecimiento intrauterino, prematuridad y bajo peso al nacer: fenotipos de riesgo de muerte neonatal, estado de Río de Janeiro, Brasil / Intrauterine growth restriction, prematurity, and low birth weight: risk phenotypes of neonatal death, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil

Resumo: A restrição do crescimento intrauterino e a prematuridade determinam o baixo peso ao nascer, e a combinação das três condições resulta em diferentes fenótipos neonatais que interferem na sobrevivência infantil. Foram estimadas a prevalência, a sobrevivência e a mortalidade neonatal, segundo os fenótipos neonatais, na coorte de nascidos vivos de 2021 no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Foram excluídos nascidos vivos de gravidez múltipla, com anomalia congênita, e com inconsistências nas informações de peso e idade gestacional. Foi utilizada a curva Intergrowth para classificar adequação do peso, e estimadas a mortalidade (< 24 horas, 1-6 e 7-27 dias) e sobrevida (Kaplan-Meier). Dos 174.399 nascidos vivos, 6,8%, 5,5% e 9,5% eram, respectivamente, baixo peso ao nascer, pequeno para idade gestacional (PIG) e prematuros. Entre nascidos vivos com baixo peso ao nascer, 39,7% eram PIG e 70%, prematuros. Os fenótipos neonatais foram heterogêneos segundo características maternas, do parto, da gestação e do recém-nascido. A taxa de mortalidade por 1.000 nascidos vivos foi elevada para neonatos de baixo peso ao nascer prematuros, tanto PIG (78,1) quanto AIG (adequado para idade gestacional: 61,1), em todas as idades específicas. Houve reduções significantes da sobrevida quando comparados aos nascidos vivos não baixo peso ao nascer, AIG termo. As prevalências estimadas mostraram menores valores que as de outros estudos, em parte pelos critérios de exclusão adotados. Os fenótipos neonatais identificaram crianças mais vulneráveis e com maior risco de morte. A prematuridade contribuiu mais para a mortalidade que a condição de PIG; sua prevenção é necessária para reduzir a mortalidade neonatal no Estado do Rio de Janeiro.

Resumen: La restricción del crecimiento intrauterino y la prematuridad determinan el bajo peso al nacer, y la combinación de las tres condiciones da como resultado diferentes fenotipos neonatales que interfieren en la supervivencia infantil. Se estimó la prevalencia, supervivencia y mortalidad neonatal según los fenotipos neonatales, en la cohorte de nacidos vivos en 2021 en el Estado de Río de Janeiro, Brasil. Se excluyeron nacidos vivos de embarazo múltiple, con anomalía congénita y con inconsistencias en la información sobre el peso y edad gestacional. Se utilizó la curva Intergrowth para clasificar la adecuación de peso, y se estimó la mortalidad (< 24 horas, 1-6 y 7-27 días) y supervivencia (Kaplan-Meier). De los 174.399 nacidos vivos, 6,8%, 5,5% y 9,5% fueron, respectivamente, bajo peso al nacer, pequeños para la edad gestacional (PIG) y prematuros. Entre los bacidos vivos com bajo peso al nacer, el 39,7% eran PIG y el 70% prematuros. Los fenotipos neonatales fueron heterogéneos según las características maternas, del parto, del embarazo y del recién nacido. La tasa de mortalidad por 1.000 nacidos vivos fue alta para los neonatos bajo peso al nacer prematuros, tanto PIG (78,1) como AIG (apropiado para la edad gestacional: 61,1), en todas las edades específicas. Hubo reducciones significativas en la supervivencia en comparación con el término AIG bajo peso al nacer nos nacidos vivos. Las prevalencias estimadas mostraron valores inferiores a los de otros estudios, en parte debido a los criterios de exclusión adoptados. Los fenotipos neonatales identificó a los niños más vulnerables y con mayor riesgo de muerte. La prematuridad contribuyó más a la mortalidad que la condición PIG, y su prevención es necesaria para reducir la mortalidad neonatal en el Estado de Río de Janeiro.

Abstract: Intrauterine growth restriction and prematurity determine low birth weight. The combination of the three conditions results in different neonatal phenotypes that interfere with child survival. Neonatal prevalence, survival and mortality were estimated according to neonatal phenotypes in the cohort of live births in 2021 in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In this study, live births of multiple pregnancies, with congenital anomalies and inconsistencies in the information of weight and gestational age were excluded. The Intergrowth curve was used to classify weight adequacy. Mortality (< 24 hours, 1-6 and 7-27 days) and survival (Kaplan-Meier) were estimated. In total, 6.8%, 5.5%, and 9.5% of the 174,399 live births were low birth weight, small for gestational age (SGA), and premature, respectively. Considering low birth weight live births, 39.7% were SGA and 70% were premature. The neonatal phenotypes were heterogeneous according to maternal, delivery, pregnancy, and newborn characteristics. The mortality rate per 1,000 live births was high for low birth weight premature newborns, both SGA (78.1) and AGA (adequate for gestational age: 61.1), at all specific ages. Reductions in the survival rate were observed when comparing non-low birth weight and AGA term live births. The estimated prevalence values were lower than those of other studies, partly due to the exclusion criteria adopted. The neonatal phenotypes identified children who were more vulnerable and at higher risk of death. Prematurity contributed more to mortality than SGA, and its prevention is necessary to reduce neonatal mortality in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Infección respiratoria baja en neonatos asociados a ventilación mecánica

Introducción: la infección respiratoria baja constituye una importante causa de mortalidad y morbilidad en el recién nacido. Objetivo: identificar los factores de riesgo para la infección respiratoria baja asociada a la ventilación mecánica artificial invasiva y no invasiva en los recién nacidos ingresados en la UCIN del servicio de Neonatología del Hospital General Docente Carlos Manuel de Céspedes de enero 2017 hasta diciembre del 2019. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico de casos y controles. Los grupos de estudio estuvieron conformados por 25 casos y 50 controles respectivamente. Resultados: las variables edad gestacional antes las 37 semanas de gestación, el bajo peso al nacer poseen dos veces o más riesgos de padecer una infección respiratoria baja asociada a la ventilación mecánica de forma significativa con una p<0,05; la estadía mayor de 3 días en ventilación mostró significancia con una p: 0,031; entre los diagnósticos que llevaron a la ventilación mecánica fue la enfermedad de la membrana hialina con una p: 0,025. Conclusiones: La edad gestacional menor de 37 semanas, el peso al nacer menor de 2 500 gramos, el tiempo ventilatorio de más de 3 días y el diagnóstico de la enfermedad de la membrana hialina fueron las variables significativas.

Introduction: lower respiratory infection is an important cause of mortality and morbidity in the newborn. Objective: to identify the risk factors for lower respiratory infection associated with invasive and non-invasive artificial mechanical ventilation in newborns admitted to the NICU of the Neonatology service of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Teaching General Hospital from January 2017 to December 2019. Methods: an analytical case-control study was conducted. The study groups consisted of 25 cases and 50 controls, respectively. Results: the variables gestational age before 37 weeks of gestation, low birth weight have twice or more risks of suffering a lower respiratory infection associated with mechanical ventilation significantly with a p<0.05; The stay longer than 3 days in ventilation showed significance with a p: 0.031; Among the diagnoses that led to mechanical ventilation was hyaline membrane disease with a p: 0.025. Conclusions: Gestational age less than 37 weeks, birth weight less than 2 500 grams, ventilatory time of more than 3 days and diagnosis of hyaline membrane disease were the significant variables.

Introdução: a infecção respiratória inferior é uma importante causa de mortalidade e morbidade no recém-nascido. Objetivo: identificar os fatores de risco para infecção respiratória inferior associados à ventilação mecânica artificial invasiva e não invasiva em recém-nascidos internados na UTIN do serviço de Neonatologia do Hospital Geral Universitário Carlos Manuel de Céspedes no período de janeiro de 2017 a dezembro de 2019. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo analítico caso-controle. Os grupos de estudo foram constituídos por 25 casos e 50 controles, respectivamente. Resultados: as variáveis idade gestacional antes de 37 semanas de gestação, baixo peso ao nascer apresentam duas ou mais vezes ou mais riscos de sofrer uma infecção respiratória inferior associada à ventilação mecânica significativamente com p<0,05; A permanência superior a 3 dias em ventilação mostrou significância com p: 0,031; Entre os diagnósticos que levaram à ventilação mecânica estava a doença da membrana hialina com p: 0,025. Conclusões: Idade gestacional inferior a 37 semanas, peso ao nascer inferior a 2.500 gramas, tempo ventilatório superior a 3 dias e diagnóstico de doença da membrana hialina foram as variáveis significativas.

Parental stress and associated symptoms in premature babies' parents: a systematic review / Estresse parental e sintomas associados em genitores de prematuros: uma revisão sistemática

Objective: The objective of the study was to identify in the scientific papers the variables associated with parental stress of premature babies' parents through the graph analytics technique. Methods: This is a Systematic Literature Review performed in the CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline, PsycInfo and Web of Science databases. Results: The search yielded 12 articles that were submitted to the data graph analytics technique for analysis and visualization through the NodeXL Program. Among the variables reviewed, the following stand out: parental psychological distress, risk factors, maternal characteristics, child characteristics, environmental characteristics, parent-infant relationship, and intervention. The main symptoms associated with parental stress were depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress. Conclusion: The implementation of interventions aimed at the baby and the family's well-being can minimize the conditions faced.

Objetivo: Objetivou-se identificar, na produção científica internacional, as variáveis associadas ao estresse parental de genitores de bebês prematuros através da técnica de análise de grafos. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática da literatura nas bases de dados CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline, PsycInfo e Web of Science. Resultados: As buscas resultaram em 12 artigos, que foram submetidos à técnica de análise e visualização de dados em grafos por meio do Programa NodeXL. Entre as variáveis analisadas, destacam-se: sofrimento psicológico dos pais, fatores de risco, características maternas, características da criança, características ambientais, relação pais-bebê e intervenção. Os principais sintomas associados ao estresse parental foram depressão, ansiedade e estresse pós-traumático. Conclusão: A implementação de intervenções voltadas ao bem-estar do bebê e da família podem minimizar as dificuldades enfrentadas.

What the skin of 341 premature newborns says - a transversal study

Abstract Objectives: Determine the frequency of dermatological diagnoses in preterm newborns up to 28 days of life and associated perinatal factors. Method: a cross-sectional analytical study with a convenience sample and prospective data collection, was conducted between November 2017 and August 2019. Overall, 341 preterm newborns who had been admitted to a University hospital - including those admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit - were evaluated. Results: 61 (17.9%) had less than 32 weeks gestational age (GA), with a mean GA and birth weight of 33.9 ± 2.8 weeks and 2107.8 ± 679.8g (465 to 4230g), respectively. The median age at the time of evaluation was 2.9 days (4 h to 27 days). The frequency of dermatological diagnoses was 100% and 98.5% of the sample had two or more, with an average of 4.67 +1.53 dermatoses for each newborn. The 10 most frequent diagnoses were lanugo (85.9%), salmon patch (72.4%), sebaceous hyperplasia (68.6%), physiological desquamation (54.8%), dermal melanocytosis (38.7%), Epstein pearls (37.2%), milia (32.2%), traumatic skin lesions (24%), toxic erythema (16.7%), and contact dermatitis (5%). Those with GA< 28 weeks showed more traumatic injuries and abrasions, whereas those with ≥ 28 weeks had physiological changes more frequently, and those with GA between 34-366/7 weeks, had transient changes. Conclusion: Dermatological diagnoses were frequent in our sample and those with higher GA showed a higher frequency of physiological (lanugo and salmon patch) and transient changes (toxic erythema and miliaria). Traumatic lesions and contact dermatitis were among the 10 most frequent injuries, reinforcing the need to effectively implement neonatal skin care protocols, especially in preterm.

Early death, morbidity and pharmacotherapy in extremely premature and very premature in neonatal intensive care units / Morte precoce, morbidade e farmacoterapia em prematuros extremos e muito prematuros em unidades de terapia intensiva neonatal

Abstract Objectives: to evaluate the evolution of extremely preterm and very preterm infants admitted to neonatal intensive care units, regarding the use of ventilatory support, morbidities, medication use, death, survival and viability. Methods: a non-concurrent cohort study, with 163 very premature and extreme newborns hospitalized in three neonatal intensive care units, during 2016 and 2017. A descriptive analysis of the data obtained from the medical records was performed. The outcomes studied were the use of ventilatory support, morbidities, medication use, death and causes of death. A survival curve was constructed and a viability limit was defined. Results: in the study, 28.2% were extreme and 71.8% were very premature. In this order of subgroups, the need for mechanical ventilation was higher for the extremes (65.2% and 41.0%) and the main diagnosis was early sepsis (78.6% and 82.6). Off-label (60.5% and 47.9%) and off-license (25.3% and 29.0%) medications were used. Most deaths (57.8%) occurred between the extremes, mainly due to septic shock. Survival was lower for the lowest gestational ages and the limit of viability was between 26 and 27 weeks. Conclusions: the main morbidities were from the respiratory system, with high use of off-label and unlicensed medications. Extremes had a greater demand for intensive care in addition to needing more drugs and progressing more to death.

Resumo Objetivos: avaliar a evolução dos prematuros extremos e muito prematuros internados em unidades de terapia intensiva neonatais, quanto ao uso de suporte ventilatório e de medicamentos, óbito, sobrevida e viabilidade. Métodos: estudo de coorte não concorrente, com 163 recém-nascidos muito prematuros e extremos internados em três unidades de terapia intensiva neonatais, durante 2016 e 2017. Realizou-se análise descritiva dos dados obtidos dos prontuários. Os desfechos estudados foram o uso de suporte ventilatório, morbidades, uso de medicamentos, óbito e causas de óbito. Foi construída curva de sobrevivência e delimitado um limite de viabilidade. Resultados: no estudo, 28,2% eram extremos e 71,8% muito prematuros. Nessa ordem de subgrupos, a necessidade de ventilação mecânica foi maior para os extremos (65,2% e 41,0%) e o principal diagnóstico foi sepse precoce (78,6% e 82,6).Medicamentos off-label (60,5% e 47,9%) e sem-licença (25,3% e 29,0%) foramutilizados. A maioria dos óbitos (57,8%) ocorreu entre os extremos, principalmente por choque séptico. A sobrevivência foi menor para as menores idades gestacionais e o limite de viabilidade ficou entre 26 e 27 semanas. Conclusões: as principais morbidades foram do sistema respiratório, com alto uso de medicamentos off-label e sem licença. Extremos tiveram maior demanda de cuidados intensivos além de necessitarem de mais medicamentos e evoluírem mais ao óbito.

Effects of kinesiology taping on swallowing functions in newborns with swallowing difficulties: a randomized controlled pilot study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the efficacy of kinesiology taping application in premature infants with dysphagia. METHODS: A total of 60 premature newborns (born ≤37weeks' gestational age who reached the age ≥34 weeks of postmenstrual age) with sucking and swallowing problems were randomly assigned to the kinesiology taping group [n=31; 18 males, 13 females; mean postmenstrual age 35.4 weeks (SD 0.9 weeks, range 34-38 weeks)] or control group without kinesiology taping application [n=29; 16 males, 13 females; mean postmenstrual age age 35.6 weeks (SD 1.4 weeks, range 34-40 weeks)]. RESULTS: Kinesiology taping group yielded significant improvement in the oral reflexes (p<0.001) and in the sucking functions including tongue movement, sucking power, number of sucks and sucking pause, maintenance of alertness, jaw movement, tongue cupping, and maintenance of rhythm (p<0.001, p=0.011, p=0.002, and p=0.001, respectively). There was a significant difference in favor of the taping group with respect to the number of neonates whose feeding improved (26 (84%) vs. 7 (24%), p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that kinesiology taping can be applied as a safe and effective method to improve feeding functions in premature infants with sucking and swallowing difficulties.

Conducto arterioso permeable: mecanismos moleculares del cierre y su relacion con el tratamiento

El conducto arterioso establece una conexión esencial entre la arteria aorta descendente proximal y la arteria pulmonar principal cerca del origen de la rama pulmonar izquierda, siendo vital durante la vida fetal y generalmente cerrándose poco después del nacimiento en la mayoría de los recién nacidos a término; no obstante, en recien nacidos pretermino, es común la persistencia del conducto arterioso debido a estímulos vasodilatadores que mantienen su permeabilidad y flujo sanguíneo constante, requiriendo enfoques de tratamiento que involucran la inhibición de la prostaglandina E2 y antiinflamatorios no esteroides, aunque la comparación de su eficacia con métodos conservadores sigue siendo poco clara, especialmente en recién nacidos prematuros extremos. La presente revisión tiene como objetivo proporcionar una comprensión de los mecanismos moleculares clave detrás de la fisiopatología del conducto arterioso persistente y su abordaje terapéutico.

The ductus arteriosus establishes an essential connection between the proximal descending aorta and the main pulmonary artery near the origin of he left pulmonary branch, being vital during fetal life and generally closing shortly after birth in most term newborns; However, in preterm infants, persistence of the ductus arteriosus is common due to vasodilator stimuli that maintain its patency and constant blood flow, requiring treatment approaches involving prostaglandin E2 inhibition and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, although the comparison of their efficacy with conservative methods remains unclear, especially in extremely preterm infants. The present review aims to provide an understanding of the key molecular mechanisms behind the pathophysiology of patent ductus arteriosus and its therapeutic approach.

Uso do grupo de WhatsApp® no acompanhamento pós-alta do bebê prematuro: implicações para o cuidado em enfermagem / Uso del grupo WhatsApp® en el seguimiento post-alta del bebé prematuro: implicaciones para el cuidado de enfermería / Use of the WhatsApp® group in the post-discharge follow-up of the premature infant: implications for nursing care

Resumo Objetivo analisar o uso do aplicativo WhatsApp®, enquanto ferramenta tecnológica, para auxiliar as mães no acompanhamento pós-alta do bebê prematuro. Método estudo de abordagem qualitativa realizado com 18 mães de bebês prematuros que haviam sido internados nas unidades neonatais de um hospital universitário no interior de São Paulo. Os dados foram coletados no período de julho a novembro de 2021 por meio de mensagens deixadas em um grupo de WhatsApp® destinado ao acompanhamento pós-alta dos pré-termo. As mensagens foram analisadas a partir da Análise de Conteúdo Temática. Resultados o grupo de WhatsApp® teve boa aceitação e adesão por parte das mães, que puderam compartilhar suas experiências, seus conhecimentos e sentimentos. Os principais temas levantados foram: Aleitamento materno ao bebê prematuro; Manejo da cólica infantil; Cuidados básicos ao prematuro no domicílio; Vivências na internação do prematuro; Desafios enfrentados no domicílio; Percepção das mães sobre o grupo de WhatsApp®. Conclusão e implicações para a prática as mães demonstraram inseguranças e dúvidas sobre os cuidados básicos com o prematuro em domicílio. A estratégia de utilizar o aplicativo WhatsApp® no acompanhamento em saúde do bebê prematuro apresentou resultados satisfatórios, favorecendo a continuidade do cuidado e o apoio às mães.

Resumen Objetivo analizar el uso de la aplicación WhatsApp®, como herramienta tecnológica, para asistir a las madres en el seguimiento post-alta del bebé prematuro. Método estudio de abordaje cualitativo realizado con 18 madres de prematuros internados en las unidades neonatales de un hospital universitario del interior de São Paulo. Los datos fueron recolectados de julio a noviembre de 2021 a través de mensajes dejados en un grupo de WhatsApp® destinado al seguimiento post-alta de prematuros. Los mensajes fueron analizados a partir del Análisis de Contenido Temático. Resultados el grupo de WhatsApp® fue bien aceptado y adherido por las madres, que pudieron compartir sus experiencias, sus conocimientos y sentimientos. Los principales temas abordados fueron: Lactancia materna del prematuro; Manejo del cólico infantil; Cuidados básicos para bebés prematuros en el hogar; Experiencias en la hospitalización de prematuros; Desafíos enfrentados en el hogar; Percepción de las madres sobre el grupo de WhatsApp®. Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica las madres mostraron inseguridades y dudas sobre los cuidados básicos del prematuro en el hogar. La estrategia de uso de la aplicación WhatsApp® en el seguimiento de la salud de los bebés prematuros mostró resultados satisfactorios, favoreciendo la continuidad de la atención y el apoyo a las madres.

Abstract Objective to analyze the use of the WhatsApp® application, as a technological tool, to help mothers in the post-discharge follow-up of their premature infant. Method a qualitative study conducted with 18 mothers of preterm infants who had been admitted to the neonatal units of a university hospital in the interior of São Paulo. Data were collected from July to November 2021 through messages left in a WhatsApp® group for the post-discharge follow-up of preterm infants. The messages were analyzed using Thematic Content Analysis. Results the WhatsApp® group had good acceptance and adhesion by the mothers, who were able to share their experiences, knowledge, and feelings. The main topics raised were: Breastfeeding the premature baby; Management of infant colic; Basic care of the premature baby at home; Experiences in the hospitalization of the premature baby; Challenges faced at home; Mothers' perception of the WhatsApp® group. Conclusion and implications for the practice the mothers showed insecurities and doubts about the basic care of the premature baby at home. The strategy of using the WhatsApp® application in the health monitoring of premature babies showed satisfactory results, favoring the continuity of care and support to mothers.

Effect of colostrum on immunoglobulin A levels among premature infants: a meta-analysis / 预防医学

Objective@#To systematically evaluate the effect of colostrum on immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels among premature infants, so as to provide the evidence for improving premature infants' health with colostrum feeding.@*Methods@#Randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) or controlled clinical trials (CCTs) pertaining to the effect of colostrum and IgA levels among premature infants were retrieved in national and international databases from inception to September 30, 2022, including CNKI, Wanfang Data, PubMed and Web of Science. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was used as an effect index for meta-analysis. The robustness of the results was evaluated using sensitivity analysis, and the publication bias was evaluated using Begg's test, Egger's test and funnel plot.@*Results @#A total of 650 publications were retrieved initially, and 10 studies were finally included, including 9 RCTs and one1 CCT, with 677 participants. Meta-analysis showed higher secretory salivary secretory IgA levels among premature infants with colostrum feeding than among controls (SMD=0.49, 95%CI: 0.08-0.89), and there were no significant differences between groups in terms of urinary secretory IgA levels (SMD=0.19, 95%CI: -0.39-0.77) or blood IgA levels (SMD=0.29, 95%CI: -0.01-0.59). Sensitivity analysis showed robustness of meta-analysis results, and no publication bias was examined.@*Conclusion@#Colostrum feeding may increase salivary secretory IgA levels among premature infants; however, it has no effect on urine salivary secretory IgA levels or blood IgA levels.

Comparison of the effectiveness of two pulmonary surfactant administration methods among premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome / 预防医学

Objective@#To compare the effectiveness of less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) and intubate surfactant extubation (INSURE) on respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) among premature infant, so as to provide insights into improving treatment effects and reducing complications of RDS among premature infants.@*Methods@#A total of 71 premature infants with RDS in Anhui Provincial Maternity and Child Health Hospital were randomly assigned into the LISA and INSURE group, and pulmonary surfactant (PS) administration was carried out by LISA and INSURE with basic support therapy and respiratory support therapy. The general information, arterial blood gas analysis before and after treatment, respiratory support time and incidence of complications were collected and compared between the two groups.@*Results@#There were 31 cases in the LISA group, with a gestational age of (29.81±0.99) weeks and 22 male cases, and 40 cases in the INSURE group, with a gestational age of (30.02±1.13) weeks and 26 male cases. There were no significant differences in basic characteristics (including gestational age, birth weight, gender, etc.) between the two groups (all P>0.05). After administration, the level of PaO2 was lower in the LISA group than in the INSURE group [(78.35±6.55) mmHg vs. (87.68±8.21) mmHg, P<0.05], the level of PaCO2 was higher in the LISA group than in the INSURE group [(43.03±6.34) mmHg vs. (38.68±9.69) mmHg, P<0.05], and the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia was lower in the LISA group than in the INSURE group (48.39% vs. 72.50%, P<0.05). Linear regression analysis showed that with the duration of LISA administration increase (2-7 min), the minimum heart rate of premature infants increased linearly (β=13, P<0.05). @*Conclusions@#Compared with INSURE, LISA administration could slowly improve ventilation oxygenation, reduce hyperventilation and incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia among premature infants with RDS. The incidence of slow heart rate may be reduced by appropriately prolonging the administration duration.

Diagnosis model of the white matter injury of premature infants based on ultrasonography radiomics / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To investigate the value of the ultrasonography in the diagnosis of the white matter injury of premature infants based on gray-scale ultrasonography radiomics.Methods:A total of 256 premature infants in Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University from August 2018 to April 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. The computer-generated random numbers were assigned to the training set and the verification set according to 6∶4 ratio. On the basis of standardized collection of craniocerebral ultrasound images, the radiomics features were extracted from imaging by Pyradiomics 3.0.1 software package, the Mann-Whitney U test and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and stepwise regression were used to select the optimal features. Then the Logistic regression was used to build radiomics model. According to MRI, ROC curve was utilized to evaluate the performance of the model. The craniocerebral ultrasound images in the validation set were independently diagnosed by a senior physician and a junior physician, and then the above two physicians diagnosed again with the help of the radiomics, and the diagnostic abilities of this model were compared with those of the junior and senior physicians with and without radiomics assist. Results:A total of 5 optimal features were selected to develop radiomics model. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) in the training and validation sets were 0.861, 0.775, 0.799, 0.818; 0.929, 0.824, 0.853, 0.876, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and AUC in the senior sonographer, the junior sonographer, and both of them with radiomics assist for the dagnosis in the validation set were 0.929, 0.892, 0.902, 0.910; 0.714, 0.743, 0.735, 0.729; 0.929, 0.919, 0.922, 0.924; 0.857, 0.824, 0.833, 0.841, respectively. Performance of radiomics model reached the level of the senior sonographer (AUC: 0.876 vs 0.910, P=0.284), which was significantly better than the performance of the junior sonographer(AUC: 0.876 vs 0.729, P=0.001). Performance of the junior sonographer with radiomics assist was significantly better than the performance of the junior sonographer(AUC: 0.841 vs 0.729, P=0.003). Performance of the senior sonographer with radiomics assist was comparable to that of the senior sonographer(AUC: 0.924 vs 0.910, P=0.156). Conclusions:The ultrasound diagnosis method based on radiomics technology shows good diagnostic performance for the white matter injury of premature infants. It is helpful to improve the diagnostic ability of junior sonographer. It is expected to assist the sonographers in diagnosis and provide objective, consistent and accurate results for clinical practice.

Clinical characteristics of premature infants with respiratory ureaplasma urealyticum infection / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical characteristics of ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) infection in preterm infants with gestational age <34 weeks.Methods:From January 2017 to December 2021, premature infants with gestational age <34 weeks admitted to neonatal department of our hospital were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. UU-DNA from respiratory tract samples were examined using quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction method. The infants were assigned into UU (+) group and UU (-) group. Perinatal factors and clinical characteristics were compared between the two groups.Results:A total of 182 preterm infants were enrolled, including 59 cases (32.4%) in UU (+) group and 123 (67.6%) in UU (-) group. UU (+) group had significantly lower gestational age and birth weight and significantly higher incidences of vaginal delivery, premature rupture of membranes (PROM) >18 h and maternal chorioamnionitis than UU (-) group ( P<0.05). Compared with UU (-) group, UU (+) group had significantly higher leucocyte count, neutrophil count and interleukin-6 at 1, 24 and 72 h after birth ( P<0.05). No significant differences existed in C-reactive protein and procalcitonin between the two groups at each time point ( P>0.05). In UU (+) group, the incidences of intrauterine pulmonary infection and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) were higher and the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome was lower than UU (-) group ( P<0.05). No significant differences existed in the incidences of intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, feeding intolerance, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity between the two groups ( P>0.0 5). UU (+) group had significantly longer duration of oxygen therapy than UU (-) group ( P<0.05). No significant differences existed in the duration of invasive mechanical ventilation and hospital stay between the two groups ( P>0.05). Conclusions:Preterm infants <34 weeks with positive UU in respiratory tract secretions have higher incidences of vaginal delivery, PROM>18 h and maternal chorioamnionitis. Leukocyte and neutrophil count and interleukin -6 are higher in these infants. They need prolonged oxygen therapy and have increased risks of intrauterine pulmonary infection and BPD.

Development and validation of a risk prediction model for low Apgar scores in extremely premature infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To establish a risk prediction model for the occurrence of low 1 min Apgar scores in extremely premature infants (EPIs).Methods:From January 2017 to December 2021, EPIs delivered at our hospital were retrospectively analyzed and randomly assigned into training set group and validation set group in a 7∶3 ratio. 17 clinical indicators were selected as predictive variables and low Apgar scores after birth as outcome variables. Lasso regression and multi-factor logistic regression were used within the training set group to select the final predictors for the final model, and the calibration, distinguishability and clinical decision making curves of the final model were evaluated in the validation set group.Results:A total of 169 EPIs were enrolled, including 117 in the training set group and 52 in the validation set group. 4 indicators including gender, fetal distress, assisted conception and delivery time were selected as the final predictors in the final model. Both the training set group and the validation set group had good calibration curves. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of the prediction model was 0.731, the sensitivity was 72.2%, the specificity was 60.5% and the AUC of the external validation curve was 0.704. The clinical decision making curve showed that the model had a greater benefit in predicting the occurrence of low Apgar score in EPIs within the threshold of 2% to 75%.Conclusions:The clinical prediction model established in this study has good distinguishability, calibration and clinical accessibility and can be used as a reference tool to predict low Apgar scores in EPIs.

Risk factors of hydrocephalus secondary to severe intraventricular hemorrhage in preterm infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the risk factors of secondary hydrocephalus after severe intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in preterm infants for prevention and early identification of post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH).Methods:From June 2013 to June 2021, preterm infants with severe IVH admitted to our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. They were assigned into PHH group and non-PHH group. Rank sum test or chi-square test was used for comparison between the two groups and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors of PHH in preterm infants.Results:A total of 246 preterm infants with severe IVH were enrolled, including 68 cases (27.6%) in the PHH group and 178 cases (72.4%) in the non-PHH group. Multivariate logistic stepwise regression analysis showed that male gender ( OR=2.014, 95% CI 1.063-3.817), gestational age ≤30 week ( OR=2.240, 95% CI 1.210-4.146), 5-min Apgar score ≤5 ( OR=3.980, 95% CI 1.483-10.685), placental abruption ( OR=2.940, 95% CI 1.324-6.531) were independent risk factors for PHH in preterm infants and thrombocytopenia was the protective factor for PHH in preterm infants ( OR=0.305, 95% CI 0.147-0.632). The incidence of moderate thrombocytopenia in non-PHH group was significantly higher than PHH group ( P<0.05). No significant differences existed in the incidences of mild and severe thrombocytopenia between the two groups ( P>0.05). Conclusions:Male gender, gestational age ≤30 week, 5-min Apgar score ≤5, placental abruption are risk factors for PHH in premature infants with severe IVH and moderate thrombocytopenia has protective effects.

Risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity in very low birth weight infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs).Methods:From October 2020 to December 2021, VLBWIs with gestational age(GA) ≤32 weeks admitted to the neonatal department of our hospital were retrospectively studied. According to the occurrence of ROP, they were assigned into ROP group and non-ROP group. The clinical data of the two groups were compared and the risk factors of ROP in VLBWI were analyzed.Results:A total of 251 VLBWIs were enrolled, including 60 cases (23.9%) in ROP group and 191 (76.1%) in non-ROP group. The GA and birth weight (BW) of ROP group were significantly lower than non-ROP group [28(26,30) w vs. 29(28,31) w, 1 035(840,1 285) g vs. 1 260(1 110,1 380) g, respectively, all P<0.001]. The ROP group had longer duration of oxygen therapy [42.0(26.0, 53.5) d vs. 24.0(18.0, 34.0) d], higher incidences of blood transfusion [2.5(1.0, 3.0) times vs. 2.0 (1.0, 2.0) times] and hyperglycemia (80.0% vs. 16.8%), higher average [(5.6±0.5) mmol/L vs. (5.1±0.5) mmol/L] and peak [10.4(7.8,13.2) mmol/L vs. 6.5(6.1,6.8) mmol/L] blood glucose levels in the first week than the non-ROP group (all P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that longer duration of oxygen therapy ( OR=1.047, 95% CI 1.008-1.087, P=0.018) and higher peak blood glucose level in the first week ( OR=1.268, 95% CI 1.092-1.474, P=0.002) were the independent risk factors for ROP. Conclusions:Longer duration of oxygen therapy and higher peak of blood glucose level in the first week are risk factors for ROP in VLBWIs.

Effects of patent ductus arteriosus on bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very low birth weight preterm infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the effects of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) on bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in very low birth weight preterm infants (VLBWIs).Methods:From January 2018 to December 2020,VLBWIs hospitalized in NICU of our hospital were retrospectively analyzed.They were assigned into BPD group and non-BPD group according to whether BPD occurred. Clinical data including the severity of BPD , the diameter and duration of PDA and ibuprofen usage were analyzed. The predictive values of PDA diameter and duration for BPD were calculated using area under curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis.Results:A total of 173 VLBWIs were enrolled, including 42 in the BPD group and 131 in the non-BPD group. The incidence of hemodynamically significant PDA (hsPDA) in the BPD group was significantly higher than the non-BPD group (45.2% vs. 22.1%, P=0.001).hsPDA ( OR=2.806, 95% CI 1.307-5.745, P=0.005), PDA diameter ≥1.5 mm ( OR=7.003, 95% CI 1.323-48.884, P<0.001) and PDA duration >1 w ( OR=7.754, 95% CI 1.203-49.989, P=0.031) were all risk factors for BPD.As for the severity of BPD, hsPDA, PDA diameter ≥1.5 mm, PDA duration >1 w and FiO 2max >30% within 72 h after birth were risk factors for grade Ⅱ~Ⅲ BPD. The incidence of ibuprofen usage was significantly higher in grade Ⅱ~Ⅲ BPD group. If the diameter of PDA was 1.25 mm, the AUC was 0.806 (95% CI 0.706-0.906, P<0.001), sensitivity 82.6% and specificity 68.7% for grade Ⅱ~Ⅲ BPD. If the PDA duration was 10.5 d, the AUC was 0.821 (95% CI 0.718-0.925, P<0.001), sensitivity 65.2% and specificity 91.3%. Conclusions:hsPDA, larger PDA diameter and longer PDA duration are risk factors for the occurrence and severity of BPD in VLBWIs.