Maternal Characteristics of Full-Term Birth Asphyxia Neonates

Background: In developing countries, perinatal hypoxia is still a leading cause of mortality and disability. In 2011, the infant mortality rate dropped from 92 per 1000 live births in 1991 to 43 per 1000 live births. However, neonatal mortality in Bangladesh remains high, accounting for more than half of all deaths under the age of five and more than two-thirds of infant mortality. As a result, any qualities that can operate as a risk factor for prenatal asphyxia can be quite beneficial. The aim of the study was to observe the maternal characteristics of perinatal asphyxia in full-term pregnancies. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Pediatrics, Rangpur Medical Collage, and Hospital, Rangpur, Bangladesh. The study duration was 2 years, from January 2012 to December 2013. The study was conducted with a total of 60 cases of birth asphyxia, who were delivered or admitted into the study hospital. Results: In 70% of cases, the mother was Primipara. Among the neonates, 61.67% were male, and 38.33% were female. Only 33% of the case neonates had received regular antenatal check-ups, while 55% had irregular check-ups, and 11.67% had no antenatal checkups. According to the grading of asphyxia, 51.67% of neonates had moderate asphyxia, 20% had mild asphyxia, and 28.33% had severe asphyxia. The mean serum sodium value in mild, moderate, and severe asphyxia were 135.33, 123.42, and 121.53 mmol/L respectively. Mean serum potassium values were 4.11, 4.86, and 5.51 mmol/L respectively. Mean serum creatinine 0.72, 1.00, and 1.83 mg/dl respectively. Mean blood urea levels were 36.17, 58.97, and 88.06 mg/dl respectively. A significant difference was observed between the mean values of serum electrolytes and patients’ asphyxia grade. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that birth asphyxia was more common among vaginal deliveries and irregular or no neonatal care cases. Primipara patients had a higher likelihood of neonatal asphyxia. Serum electrolyte levels varied significantly based on the grade of asphyxia.

Common Causes of Neonatal Death in Calabar, South-South Nigeria: An Autopsy Study

Background: Neonatal deaths are deaths of live born babies occurring before 28 completed days. The vast majority occur in low-income countries like Nigeria with a high neonatal mortality rate. There is paucity of autopsy studies due to refusal of family to give consent for such procedures. Aim: To identify the commonest causes of neonatal death in 53 neonatal autopsies in Calabar, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Detailed postmortem was carried out using lettules techniques and bits taken for histological analysis to ascertain the cause of death. Other relevant contributory factors such as the gestational age, mode of delivery, place of birth, antemortem cause of deaths and maternal obstetric history were obtained from the medical records and autopsy request forms. Results: In the one-year retrospective study of 53 neonatal autopsies, male: female ratio was 1: 0.83 and mean age at death was 6.5 + 7.3 days, ranging from 1 to 28 days. The commonest cause of neonatal death was severe birth asphyxia seen in 10 cases (18.9%), followed by kernicterus in 6 cases (11.3%), birth trauma seen in 6 cases (11.3%), congenital heart disease seen in 5 cases (9.4%), and prematurity seen in 5 cases (9.4%). Conclusion: The study confirms the usefulness of neonatal autopsy in ascertaining the definitive cause of death. Severe birth Asphyxia was identified as the commonest cause of death in the neonatal period followed by birth trauma, kernicterus and congenital heart diseases.

Evaluación renal y multiorgánica en el paciente con encefalopatía hipóxico-isquémica / Renal and multiorgan evaluation in infants with post-asphyxial hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy

Resumen Introducción: La encefalopatía hipóxico-isquémica (EHI) moderada-grave secundaria a asfixia perinatal puede afectar a cualquier órgano, empeorando el pronóstico. Objetivo: Evaluar la afectación renal y multiorgánica de estos pacientes. Material y método: Se incluyó a recién nacidos > 35 semanas con EHI moderada-grave tratados con hipotermia activa entre 2010 y 2020. Se evaluó la creatinina en tres periodos: 48-72 horas de vida, entre el 3.o y 7.o día de vida y del 7.o al 28.o día de vida. Resultados: Se incluyeron 135 pacientes: 112 con EHI moderada y 23 con EHI grave. Al comparar ambos grupos, se obtuvieron diferencias significativas a las 48-72 horas y entre 3.o-7.o día de vida. No hubo diferencias al comparar el método de hipotermia. Los pacientes con EHI grave presentaron mayor afectación hemodinámica, respiratoria y hepática. Conclusiones: Neonatos con EHI grave presentan aumento de los niveles de creatinina sérica y mayor afectación multiorgánica respecto a aquellos con EHI moderada.

Abstract Background: Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) secondary to perinatal asphyxia can affect any organ, worsening the prognosis. Objective: To describe renal and multiorgan involvement in moderate-severe HIE. Material and method: Newborns > 35 weeks diagnosed with moderate-severe HIE who required active hypothermia between 2010-2020 were included. To assess renal involvement, serum creatinine was measured in three different periods: at 48-72 hours, between the 3rd and the 7th day, and from the 7th to the 28th day. Results: A total of 135 patients were included, 112 (83%) with moderate and 23 (17%) with severe HIE. Significant differences were obtained when comparing median creatinine levels at 48-72 hours and between 3-7 days in both groups. There were no differences in creatinine according to the hypothermia method. Patients with severe HIE presented greater hemodynamic, respiratory, and hepatic involvement. Conclusions: Neonates with severe HIE present increased serum creatinine levels and greater multi-organ involvement than those with moderate HIE.

Proporção e fatores associados a Apgar menor que 7 no 5º minuto de vida: de 1999 a 2019, o que mudou? / Proportion and factors associated with Apgar less than 7 in the 5th minute of life: from 1999 to 2019, what has changed?

Resumo Apesar da variação entre observadores na avaliação do escore de Apgar, ele permanece um indicador útil das condições gerais do recém-nascido. O presente trabalho é um estudo de corte transversal baseado na população de nascidos vivos no Brasil no ano de 1999 e no biênio 2018-2019. Foram avaliadas todas as declarações de nascidos vivos (DNV) obtidas a partir do banco de dados do Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos. As frequências foram comparadas entre os grupos por meio do teste qui-quadrado de Pearson e foi realizada análise de regressão logística multivariada. Adotou-se nível de significância estatística de 0,05. Foram analisadas 9.050.521 DNVs em nossa pesquisa. Constatamos que 2,1% dos recém-nascidos tiveram Apgar de 5º minuto < 7 em 1999, em comparação com 0,9% em 2018-2019. A análise multivariada indicou que gemelidade e gravidez na adolescência deixaram de ser fatores de risco para Apgar de 5º minuto < 7. Entre os fatores de risco, nota-se aumento da prematuridade, baixo peso ao nascer e anomalias congênitas. Observou-se melhoria de marcadores maternos, em especial o aumento do número de consultas pré-natais e escolaridade. Tais achados mostram a importância de acesso e seguimento pré-natal adequado e investimento em melhores condições socioeconômicas como estratégia eficaz para redução de morbimortalidade neonatal.

Abstract Although variation between observers in the assessment of the Apgar score, it remains a useful indicator of the general conditions of the newborn. This is a cross-sectional study based on population of live births in Brazil in 1999 and biennium 2018-2019. All declarations of live births (DNV) obtained from the Live Births System database were accessed. Frequencies were compared between groups using Pearson's chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. A statistical significance level of 0.05 was considered. We included 9.050.521 DNVs in our research. We found that 2,1% of newborns had 5th minute Apgar < 7 in 1999 compared with 0,9% in 2018-2019. Multivariate analysis shows that twins and teenage pregnancy are no longer risk factors. Among risk factors, we observed an increase in prematurity, low birth weight and congenital anomalies. An improvement in maternal markers was observed, especially increase in the number of prenatal consultations and schooling. Such findings demonstrate the importance access and adequate prenatal care and improved socioeconomic conditions as effective strategy to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality.

The role of myocardial work parameters in early identification of myocardial injury in neonatal asphyxia / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the role of myocardial work parameters in early identification of myocardial injury in neonatal asphyxia.Methods:From July 2020 to December 2021, neonates diagnosed with mild neonatal asphyxia admitted to the Department of Neonatology of our hospital within 24 h after birth were prospectively enrolled into the asphyxia group. Neonates without asphyxia during the same period were selected as the control group and matched with the asphyxia group for gender, gestational age and birth weight at a ratio of 1:1~1:2. The asphyxia group was subgrouped into preterm asphyxia group and term asphyxia group. All neonates received echocardiography within 24 h after birth. Multiple parameters were measured including M-mode, two-dimensional image, Doppler image, global longitudinal strain (GLS) and myocardial work parameters [global work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global wasted work (GWW), global work efficiency (GWE)]. The level of serum N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) was recorded in the asphyxia group. The data were compared between the asphyxia group and the control group. Correlations between myocardial work parameters and other parameters were analyzed.Results:A total of 33 cases were in the asphyxia group and 43 cases were in the control group. The preterm asphyxia group (18 cases) showed significantly lower GWI and GCW than the preterm control group (18 cases) [GWI: (702±153) mmHg vs. (879±205) mmHg, GCW: (1 016±221) mmHg vs. (1 200±271) mmHg] ( P<0.05). No differences existed in GLS, GWW and GWE. The term asphyxia group (15 cases) showed significantly lower GWW than the term control group (25 cases) [45.0 (30.0, 65.0) mmHg vs. 71.0 (35.5,85.5) mmHg] ( P<0.05). No differences existed in GLS, GWI, GCW and GWE. GWI was negatively correlated with serum NT-proBNP level ( r=-0.327, P<0.05). Conclusions:GWI and GCW may indicate myocardial injury in preterm neonates with mild asphyxia.

Prediction of short term clinical outcomes in low Apgar score neonates using umbilical artery blood gas analysis plus amplitude integrated electroencephalography / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the predictive values of umbilical artery blood gas analysis(UABG) plus amplitude-integrated electroencephalography(aEEG) monitoring within 6 h after birth for early complications and short term neurological outcomes in low Apgar score neonates.Methods:From January 2020 to February 2022, neonates with gestational age (GA) ≥35 weeks and 1 min or 5 min Apgar score ≤7 admitted to NICU of our hospital were retrospectively reviewed. According to UABG pH values, the neonates were assigned into pH<7.2 group and pH ≥7.2 group, and further grouped into abnormal aEEG group and normal aEEG group. The ttest, rank sum test and χ2 test were used to compare laboratory results, incidences of diseases, physical growth and neurological prognosis at 6 month of age. Results:A total of 105 neonates with low Apgar scores were enrolled, including 73 cases in the pH<7.2 group and 32 cases in the pH≥7.2 group. In the pH<7.2 group, 52(71.2%) had abnormal aEEG and 21 had normal aEEG. In the pH≥7.2 group, 6(18.8%) had abnormal aEEG and 26 had normal aEEG. The incidence of abnormal aEEG in the pH<7.2 group was higher than the pH≥7.2 group ( P<0.001). The degree of aEEG abnormality was negatively correlated with UABG pH ( r=-0.463, P<0.001). In the pH<7.2 group, the levels of creatine kinase isozymes (CK-MB), activated partial thromboplastin time and the incidence of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) in neonates with abnormal aEEG were significantly higher than those with normal aEEG, and the head circumference (HC) at 6 month was significantly smaller in neonates with abnormal aEEG (all P<0.05). In the pH≥7.2 group, the level of CK-MB, incidences of HIE and respiratory failure in neonates with abnormal aEEG were higher than those with normal aEEG, HC at 6 month was smaller and the incidence of adverse neurological prognosis was higher in neonates with abnormal aEEG (all P<0.05). Conclusions:UABG plus aEEG monitoring within 6 h after birth shows predictive values for early complications and short term neurological outcomes in low Apgar scores neonates.

Application of PDCA cycle in quality improvement of neonatal resuscitation / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the effects of plan-do-check-action (PDCA) cycle in quality improvement of neonatal resuscitation.Methods:From 2016 to 2020, the clinical data of neonates born in our hospital were analyzed. Neonates born during 2016 to 2017 were pre-PDCA group and neonates born during 2018 to 2020 were post-PDCA group. PDCA quality improvement included step-by-step, high-frequency and low-dose training, strengthening teamwork and adding equipment.Results:A total of 7 728 live-birth neonates were delivered before PDCA with 319 cases (4.1%) of asphyxia. 10 174 live-birth neonates were delivered after PDCA with 422 cases (4.1%) of asphyxia. The asphyxia rates showed no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05). The incidences of severe asphyxia before and after PDCA were both 0.8% without significant difference ( P>0.05). The success rates of resuscitation for severe asphyxia before and after PDCA was 27.9% and 44.9%, respectively, and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05). The mortality rates within 7 d before and after PDCA were 0.5‰ and 0.1‰ respectively, without significant differences ( P>0.05). Conclusions:The implementation of PDCA cycle and step-by-step, high-frequency, low-dose neonatal resuscitation training can effectively improve the success rate of resuscitation in newborns with severe asphyxia.

Construction and application of neonatal asphyxia risk prediction model in cesarean section / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective:To establish a risk prediction model for neonatal asphyxia in cesarean section and test its application effect.Methods:This was a retrospective study. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 2 244 infants (modeling group) who were delivered by cesarean section in Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University from April 2021 to December 2021. Newborns were divided into asphyxia group ( n=176) and non-asphyxia group ( n=2 068) according to the occurrence of neonatal asphyxia. Logistic regression was used to screen the risk factors of neonatal asphyxia in cesarean section and a line chart model was established to predict the risk. Another 683 neonates were selected as validation group for external validation of the model from January to March in 2022. Results:Five factors including preterm birth, fetal distress, fetal growth restriction, abnormal S/D value of umbilical artery and umbilical cord around the neck were included in the prediction model. The area under ROC curve of the modeling group was 0.902, the Youden index was 0.687, the sensitivity was 0.837, and the specificity was 0.850. Hosmer-lemeshow test showed that χ2=1.79, and P=0.877. In the validation group, the area under ROC curve was 0.823, the Youden index was 0.555, the sensitivity was 0.835, and the specificity was 0.720. It showed that the model had a good fitting effect and identification validity. Conclusions:The risk prediction model has a good clinical application value in the prediction of neonatal asphyxia in cesarean section, and provides reference for obstetricians to take preventive management measures of neonatal asphyxia in time.

Risk factors for neonatal asphyxia and establishment of a nomogram model for predicting neonatal asphyxia in Hubei Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture: a multicenter study / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To investigate the risk factors for neonatal asphyxia in Hubei Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture and establish a nomogram model for predicting the risk of neonatal asphyxia.@*METHODS@#A retrospective study was conducted with 613 cases of neonatal asphyxia treated in 20 cooperative hospitals in Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture from January to December 2019 as the asphyxia group, and 988 randomly selected non-asphyxia neonates born and admitted to the neonatology department of these hospitals during the same period as the control group. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors for neonatal asphyxia. R software (4.2.2) was used to establish a nomogram model. Receiver operator characteristic curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis were used to assess the discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness of the model for predicting the risk of neonatal asphyxia, respectively.@*RESULTS@#Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that minority (Tujia), male sex, premature birth, congenital malformations, abnormal fetal position, intrauterine distress, maternal occupation as a farmer, education level below high school, fewer than 9 prenatal check-ups, threatened abortion, abnormal umbilical cord, abnormal amniotic fluid, placenta previa, abruptio placentae, emergency caesarean section, and assisted delivery were independent risk factors for neonatal asphyxia (P<0.05). The area under the curve of the model for predicting the risk of neonatal asphyxia based on these risk factors was 0.748 (95%CI: 0.723-0.772). The calibration curve indicated high accuracy of the model for predicting the risk of neonatal asphyxia. The decision curve analysis showed that the model could provide a higher net benefit for neonates at risk of asphyxia.@*CONCLUSIONS@#The risk factors for neonatal asphyxia in Hubei Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture are multifactorial, and the nomogram model based on these factors has good value in predicting the risk of neonatal asphyxia, which can help clinicians identify neonates at high risk of asphyxia early, and reduce the incidence of neonatal asphyxia.

Research Progress on Molecular Changes in Pulmonary Hypoxia and Cause of Death Identification in Mechanical Asphyxia / 法医学杂志

Lung is the largest organ of the respiratory system. During hypoxia, pulmonary cells undergo rapid damage changes and activate the self-rescue pathways, thus leading to complex biomacromolecule modification. Death from mechanical asphyxia refers to death due to acute respiratory disorder caused by mechanical violence. Because of the absence of characteristic signs in corpse, the accurate identification of mechanical asphyxia has always been the difficulty in forensic pathology. This paper reviews the biomacromolecule changes under the pulmonary hypoxia condition and discusses the possibility of application of these changes to accurate identification of death from mechanical asphyxia, aiming to provide new ideas for related research.

Impact of resuscitation training program on neonatal outcomes in a region of high socioeconomic vulnerability in Brazil: an interventional study

Abstract Objectives: This pre/post-intervention study aimed to evaluate neonatal outcomes after the implementation of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program of the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics. Method: This interventional study was conducted across five secondary healthcare regions that supported 62 cities in the southwestern mesoregion of Piauí. It included 431 healthcare professionals responsible for neonatal care in the study region. The participants were trained in neonatal resuscitation through the Neonatal Resuscitation Program of the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics. Delivery room structuring, healthcare professionals' knowledge, and neonatal care outcomes were analyzed immediately before and after intervention and after 12 months between February 2018 and March 2019, and healthcare professionals were evaluated. Results: Training was conducted for over 106 courses. As a participant could take multiple courses, 700 training sessions were conducted. Regarding delivery room structuring, the acquisition of materials required for resuscitation increased from 28.4 to 80.6% immediately after the intervention and to 83.3% after 12 months. Knowledge retention was significant in the post-training period, with a 95.5% approval rate, and knowledge acquisition was satisfactory after 12 months. The number of newborns transferred during the study period increased significantly. A 72.6% reduction in mortality at birth was recorded, and 479 newborns were resuscitated. Conclusion: Following the implementation of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program of the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics, structural improvements in delivery rooms, adequate knowledge retention regarding neonatal resuscitation, and a consequent reduction in neonatal mortality were observed.

Prognostic analysis of 55 neonates with severe asphyxia / 预防医学

Objective@#To analyze the prognosis of neonates with severe asphyxia, so as to provide insights into improvements of prognosis among neonates with severe asphyxia. @*Methods@#Neonates with severe asphyxia born in Hangzhou Women's Hospital from 2016 to 2021 were recruited, and neonates' birth weight, gender, Apgar score, arterial blood pH value within 30 minutes after birth and maternal delivery data were collected. Outpatient follow-up was performed among neonates one year after birth, and the prognosis was evaluated with the Gesell Developmental Scale. Death or development quotient (DQ) of <75 was defined poor prognosis, and the clinical characteristics were compared between the good prognosis group and the poor prognosis group.@*Results@#A total of 55 neonates with severe asphyxia were enrolled, including 26 boys and 29 girls, with a median birth weight of 2 845.00 g (interquartile range, 1 948.00 g). There were 52 lying-in women (3 women had twins), with a mean age of (30.56±4.08) years, including 35 women with dystocia (67.31%) and 37 primiparas (71.15%). Of 55 neonates with severe asphyxia, there were 40 neonates with good prognosis (72.73%) and 15 neonates with poor prognosis (27.27%), including 13 deaths and 2 cases with DQ of <75. The incidence of abnormal fetal position was higher in the good prognosis group than in the poor prognosis group (36.84% vs. 0%; P<0.05), and the incidence of uterine torsion or uterine rupture was higher in the poor prognosis group than in the good prognosis group (21.43% vs. 0%; P<0.05). The median Apgar score at 5 min after birth and arterial blood pH within 30 min after birth were lower in the poor prognosis group [3.00 (interquartile range, 4.00) points and (6.93±0.23)] than in the good prognosis group [6.00 (interquartile range, 4.00) points and (7.23±0.15)] (P<0.05).@*Conclusion@#Maternal uterine torsion or uterine rupture, low Apgar score at 5 min after birth, and low arterial blood pH within 30 min after birth may aggravate the poor prognosis among neonates with severe asphyxia.

Cord blood and serial lactate levels in predicting short-term outcome in term new-born babies with perinatal asphyxia

Introduction: Birth asphyxia is a leading cause of neonatal deaths across the globe. Clinical examination, Apgar score, pH, EEG/aEEG, Lactate are being used as markers for prediction of outcome. Serum Lactate is a better reflector of metabolic mechanism. We intend to study cord blood lactate and serial lactate levels in term birth asphyxia babies. Aim: To determine correlation between cord blood lactate, serial lactate levels and short term outcome in term new-born babies with perinatal asphyxia. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective, observational study. Thirty term babies with birth asphyxia were selected. Their Cord blood lactate, serum lactate at 6, 12, 24 hours of life were correlated to short term outcomes (NICU stay, shock, Acute kidney injury, mortality). Results: Eighteen babies with moderate asphyxia and 12 with severe asphyxia had mean cord blood lactate of 10.4mmol/L and 13.47mmol/L respectively. There was difference in mean lactate levels at 6, 12, 24 hours of life between the babies who survived and expired; also survivors had significant reduction in mean lactate levels at various time points. Babies with moderate asphyxia had no shock and AKI. Babies with severe asphyxia and shock had mean lactate levels of 12mmol/L in survivors and 13.8mmol/L in who expired. Babies with severe asphyxia and AKI had mean lactate of 14mmol/L in survivors and 14.6mmol/L in who expired. Babies with moderate asphyxia had no mortality. In babies with severe asphyxia, survivors had mean lactate of 12.74mmol/L and 14mmol/L in babies who expired. There was no correlation between the lactate levels and the length of the NICU stay. Conclusion: Serial lactate levels can be used to predictor the short term prognosis in term babies with perinatal asphyxia. There was significant difference in mean lactate levels between the babies who survived and expired. Serial lactate levels showed significant reduction in babies who survived.

Reanimación neonatal en sala de partos en Villa Clara / Neonatal resuscitation in the delivery room in Villa Clara province

Introducción: La pérdida de bienestar fetal perinatal es la situación que con mayor frecuencia condiciona la necesidad de reanimación cardiopulmonar del recién nacido en el momento del parto. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de los neonatos reanimados en la sala de partos. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación de desarrollo, descriptivo, observacional, retrospectivo, en el Hospital Provincial Universitario Ginecoobstétrico Mariana Grajales de Santa Clara desde enero de 2017 a diciembre de 2021. La muestra coincidió con el universo y estuvo compuesta por 106 neonatos que obtuvieron una puntuación de Apgar bajo (inferior a siete), evaluado al primer minuto después del nacimiento que requirieron alguna maniobra de reanimación neonatal en la sala de partos. Se empleó cálculo de frecuencias absoluta y relativa, además de contraste de proporciones mediante Chi-Cuadrado para las variables cualitativas como resultado de esta prueba. Resultados: Fueron más frecuentes los recién nacidos con peso normal (75,5 por ciento), al término de la gestación (65,1 por ciento) y del sexo masculino (61,3 por ciento). La cesárea como vía final del parto (51,9 por ciento) y la presencia de líquido amniótico meconial; fueron variables con mayor porcentaje dentro de las variables perinatales seleccionadas. El 8,5 por ciento de los neonatos reanimados fallecieron. Conclusiones: Las variables clínicas y epidemiológicas más frecuentes en el estudio coincidieron con la literatura consultada. La mayoría de los neonatos reanimados sobrevivieron(AU)

Introduction: Perinatal loss of fetal well-being is the situation that most frequently creates the need for newborn cardiopulmonary resuscitation at delivery. Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of neonates resuscitated in the delivery room. Methods: A developmental, descriptive, observational, retrospective and descriptive research was carried out at Mariana Grajales Gynecobstetric University Provincial Hospital, of Santa Clara (Villa Clara Province, Cuba), from January 2017 to December 2021. The sample coincided with the universe and was made up of 106 neonates with low Apgar score (lower than seven), evaluated at the first minute after birth, who required some neonatal resuscitation maneuver in the delivery room. Calculation of absolute and relative frequencies was used, as well as contrast of proportions by chi-square for qualitative variables resulting from this test. Results: Newborns with normal weight (75.5 percent), at term (65.1 percent) and male (61.3 percent) were more frequent. Cesarean section as the final route of delivery (51.9 percent) and the presence of meconium amniotic fluid were the variables with the highest percentage from among the selected perinatal variables. 8.5 percent of the resuscitated neonates died. Conclusions: The most frequent clinical and epidemiological variables in the study coincided with the consulted literature. Most of the resuscitated neonates survived(AU)

Nudo verdadero como causa de taquicardia fetal persistente Reporte de un caso / True Knot as a Cause of Persistent Fetal Tachycardia. Case Report

Resumen Las anomalías del cordón umbilical están asociadas a efectos adversos durante el embarazo. El nudo verdadero del cordón umbilical está presente en el 0.3-2.1% de los embarazos y se ha asociado a muerte fetal. Dentro de los factores de riesgo se incluye, la edad materna, índice de masa corporal (IMC) elevado, multiparidad, trastornos hipertensivos, tabaquismo, polihidramnios, diabetes gestacional, sexo masculino del feto y otras malformaciones. El diagnóstico prenatal del nudo verdadero es raro y un desafío. La mayoría se diagnostica durante el nacimiento y sólo el 0.08% de los nudos verdaderos son diagnosticados de manera prenatal. El registro cardiotocográfico puede registrar trazos no tranquilizadores que reflejan que hay un estrés hipóxico o mecánico que interrumpe la oxigenación fetal. El objetivo de este reporte es mostrar un caso de nudo verdadero del cordón umbilical que presentó taquicardia fetal persistente durante el trabajo de parto con terminación del embarazo vía vaginal.

Abstract Umbilical cord abnormalities are associated with adverse effects during pregnancy. The true umbilical cord knot is present in 0.3-2.1% of pregnancies and has been associated with fetal death. Risk factors include maternal age, high BMI, multiparity, hypertensive disorders, smoking, polyhydramnios, gestational diabetes, male sex of the fetus, and other malformations. Prenatal diagnosis of the true knot is rare and challenging. Most are diagnosed at birth and only 0.08% of true knots are diagnosed prenatally. Non-reassuring cardiotocography traces may be present, reflecting hypoxic or mechanical stress disrupting fetal oxygenation. The aim of this case report is to present a case of true umbilical cord knot presenting with persistent fetal tachycardia during labor, resolved by vaginal delivery.

Correlation of Clinical Profile and Electroencephalographic Finding in Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Single-Center Experience from Bangladesh

Background: Perinatal asphyxia and resultant hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is not an uncommon phenomenon in a developing country, like Bangladesh. Electroencephalogram (EEG) is regarded as an effective prognostic tool. Correlation of clinical profiles and EEG findings of HIE patients arenot commonly observed in Bangladesh. The aim of the study was to observe the clinical profile and EEG changes in different stages of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and compare them in a tertiary care hospital.Material & Methods:This is a cross-sectional observational study conducted for a period of six months in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka. Sarnat and Sarnat score was used to classify HIE. 20 asphyxiated neonates without HIE were selected as the control group (group II) while 30asphyxiated neonates with HIE, were selected as the case group (group I) by purposive sampling. Clinical profiles, EEG findings, and immediate outcomes were observed and compared between the two groups.Results:73.3% patients were delivered at term and 30% patients were delivered at home in group I. 70% patients’ delivery were conducted by doctor in group I and 75% in group II. 63.3% patients had meconium stain in group I and 25% in group II, which was found significant. 46.7% had prolong labor in group I and 20% in group II, 40% had premature ruptured membrane (PROM) in group I and 40% in group II. Hypothermia, weak primitive reflexes, hypotonia, lethargy and seizure were significantly higher in group I. Changes in EEG correlated between the two groups and was found significant. Also, patients in group I, needed prolong hospital stay.Conclusions:The clinical profiles and EEG changes in patients with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy was concluded that there is significant association with meconium stain, seizure, hypothermia, weak primitive reflexes, lethargic, miosis, hypotonia, poor APGAR score, burst suppression & SET findings in EEG and prolonged hospital stay in prenatal asphyxia with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy.

Clinical and epidemiological aspects of victims of maritime accidents on the Mar Grande-Salvador crossing, Bahia, Brazil: a case series study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Maritime transportation is an activity of vital importance for societies. The Mar Grande-Salvador crossing is an intercity waterway transport line in Brazil that transports 3,500 passengers/day, including residents and tourists. In 2017, an accident on this crossing was considered to be the biggest maritime tragedy in Bahia in the last decade. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical and epidemiology characteristics of victims of this maritime accident, with analysis on bodily injuries, causes of death and means/instruments that caused the fatal injuries. DESIGN AND SETTING: Case-series study at the Forensic Medical Institute of Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: Reports on 73 victims who were examined for bodily injury or were necropsied by the Forensic Medical Institute were analyzed. This study was approved by the institution's Research Ethics Committee (protocol 04012218.1.0000.5032). RESULTS: The victims' mean age was 33.0 years [95% confidence interval, CI, 26.3-47.0]. The mean age of those who died was 43.0 years [95% CI, 30.5-53.5]. Bodily injuries were found in 74% of the victims. The most frequent bodily injuries were ecchymoses among females (69.7%) and abrasions among males (76.2%). Blunt instruments produced most bodily injuries (85.2%). Among the victims who died, 68.4% were female. Mechanical asphyxiation through drowning was the leading cause of death (89.4%). The overall lethality rate was 26%, and this was higher among females (28.2%). CONCLUSION: Women were the main victims of this maritime accident. Bodily injuries occurred more frequently than death, but these injuries proved to be quite significant, thus demonstrating the importance of measures to improve the safety of navigation.

Effectiveness of Neonatal Resuscitation program training among MBBS interns in a Tertiary care hospital of South India

Background: Use of simulation-based learning methodologies enhance performance in both simulated resuscitations and real-life clinical situations. Retention of skill is very important for the MBBS doctors who hardly get any exposure to such learning before entering post-graduate courses. The major cause of early neonatal death is neonatal asphyxia, which can be prevented by neonatal resuscitation. Effective resuscitation at birth can prevent neonatal deaths to a greater extent. Training in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation is critical in determining successful outcomes in perinatal asphyxia. Hence the present study was done to check the retention of knowledge after Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP ) training. Methods: A prospective interventional study was carried out among the MBBS interns who started their internship program from March 2020 - February 2021 in ACSR Government Medical College, Nellore. All the Interns were given training in NRP as a part of internship orientation programme during the first week of internship. Out of 150 interns, 143 participated in the study. The interns were oriented to the study and a pretest questionnaire was administered to them to assess their knowledge and skill regarding NRP which was followed by NRP training by the faculty of pediatrics and neonatology. The same questionnaire was administered immediately at the end of the training, 1 and 6 months post NRP training for assessing their knowledge and skill. Results: As compared to pre intervention score, the mean scores of the immediate post intervention score and at 1 month after intervention the mean score was increased with respect to knowledge and skills. After 6 months the mean scores pertaining to knowledge and skill decreased which were statistically significant. Conclusions: A significant decrease in the level of knowledge and skills regarding neonatal resuscitation was observed. Therefore, maintaining resuscitation skill requires continuous practice, supplemented by simulation training as needed.

STUDY OF LENGTH OF UMBILICAL CORD AND FETAL OUTCOME

Background & Objective: Umbilical cord length and number of loops around fetal neck leadsto intrapartum complication which can predict by antenatal screening.This study was carried out to find the effect of length of umbilical cord on intrapartumcomplication, mode of delivery, perinatal outcome.Methods: This is a prospective study conducted at NHL MMC from August 2020 to July 2021.Total 300 cases were taken. Antenatal ultrasound carried out to screen nucle cord and afterdelivery number of loops were noticed and APGAR score noted.Results: Out of 300 cases 5 case were <35 cm and 2 cases >102 cm ,97 cases were 66-75cm.86% had medium cord length, 8.67% had long, 5.3% short cord length. 11.5% case with longcase had IUFD. 85.7% with 3 loops delivered by cesarean section.Conclusion: Increase umbilical cord length and loop associated with complication like fetalheart rate variation, fetal asphyxia, increase cesarean rate. Intrapartum fetal monitoring avoidsperinatal morbidity and mortality.

¿Es el "diente rosado" válido en el contexto forense actual? / Are "pink teeth" relevant to current forensics?

Introducción: El "diente rosado" es un fenómeno post mortem. Se caracteriza por una tonalidad rosa, rojiza y hasta púrpura, que puede observarse en los dientes. Su primera referencia se remite a 1829, cuando Thomas Bell lo describió, y genera polémica desde hace casi dos siglos. La temática plantea varias interrogantes: ¿sería más lógico nombrarlo "red teeth" o "purple teeth"?, ¿qué provoca esa tonalidad más intensa?, ¿la coloración rosada indica determinada causa de muerte?, ¿queda para siempre o puede desaparecer por diversos factores? Objetivo: Describir los indicadores de que el "diente rosado" o "pink teeth" pueda aún ser considerado un elemento importante para la investigación forense actual. Comentarios principales: Luego de la experiencia acumulada con los casos trabajados durante los últimos 20 años y la revisión bibliográfica realizada, se evidencia que el fenómeno aparece sobre todo en las piezas dentales anteriores y premolares monorradiculares. Además, puede verse tanto ante mortem como post mortem. Por causas diferentes el post mortem necesita de varios días para instaurarse y es un evento tafonómico, evidenciable tanto en muertes violentas como naturales, aunque la variación en su tonalidad depende de diversos factores. Consideraciones globales: Teniendo en cuenta la experiencia obtenida por los autores, y lo referido en la bibliografía sobre el tema, se evidencia que este signo, fenómeno o hallazgo (al aclararse las interrogantes planteadas) aún puede ser muy significativo y orientador en el contexto forense actual(AU)

Introduction: "Pink teeth" are a post-mortem phenomenon characterized by a rose, reddish and even purple shade of color which may be observed in teeth. Their first reference dates back to 1829, when Thomas Bell described them. They have been a topic of debate for almost two centuries. The subject poses several questions: Would it be more logical to name them "red teeth" or "purple teeth"? What causes the increase in color intensity? Does the pink shade signal a specific cause of death? Does it remain forever or may it disappear for a variety of reasons? Objective: Describe the indicators that "pink teeth" may still be considered an important element in current forensic research. Main remarks: Based on the experience gathered from the cases analyzed in the last 20 years and the bibliographic review conducted, it is evident that the phenomenon appears mainly in anterior teeth and single-rooted premolars. On the other hand, pink teeth may be observed ante mortem as well as post mortem. For a number of reasons, post mortem pink teeth take several days to form, and they are a taphonomic phenomenon, present in violent as well as natural deaths, though their change in tone depends on various factors. General considerations: Founded on the experience obtained by the authors and the bibliography about the topic, it is evident that this sign, phenomenon or finding (upon clarification of the questions posed) may still be very significant and enlightening in the current forensic context(AU)