Seasonality of the incidence of bronchiolitis in infants — Brazil, 2016-2022: An interrupted time-series analysis / Sazonalidade da incidência de bronquiolite em lactentes — Brasil, 2016-2022: Uma análise de série temporal interrompida

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the seasonality of acute bronchiolitis in Brazil during the 2020-2022 season and compare it with the previous seasons. Methods: Data from the incidence of hospitalizations due to acute bronchiolitis in infants <1 year of age were obtained from the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Public Health database for the period between 2016 and 2022. These data were also analyzed by macro-regions of Brazil (North, Northeast, Southeast, South, and Midwest). To describe seasonal and trend characteristics over time, we used the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Averages Model. Results: Compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, the incidence of hospitalizations related to acute bronchiolitis decreased by 97% during non-pharmacological interventions (March 2020 - August 2021) but increased by 95% after non-pharmacological interventions relaxation (September 2021 - December 2022), resulting in a 16% overall increase. During the pre-COVID-19 period, hospitalizations for acute bronchiolitis followed a seasonal pattern, which was disrupted in 2020-2021 but recovered in 2022, with a peak occurring in May, approximately 4% higher than the pre-COVID-19 peak. Conclusions: This study underscores the significant influence of COVID-19 interventions on acute bronchiolitis hospitalizations in Brazil. The restoration of a seasonal pattern in 2022 highlights the interplay between public health measures and respiratory illness dynamics in young children.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a sazonalidade da bronquiolite aguda no Brasil durante a temporada 2020-2022 e compará-la com a das temporadas anteriores. Métodos: Os dados de incidência de internações por bronquiolite aguda em lactentes <1 ano de idade foram obtidos do Departamento de Informática da base de dados da Saúde Pública Brasileira para o período entre 2016 e 2022. Esses dados também foram analisados por macrorregiões do Brasil (Norte, Nordeste, Sudeste, Sul e Centro-Oeste). Para descrever características sazonais e de tendência ao longo do tempo, utilizamos o Modelo de Médias Móveis Integradas Autorregressivas Sazonais. Resultados: Em comparação com o período pré-COVID-19, a incidência de hospitalizações relacionadas com bronquiolite aguda diminuiu 97% durante as intervenções não farmacológicas (março de 2020 - agosto de 2021), mas aumentou 95% após a flexibilização das intervenções não farmacológicas (setembro de 2021 - dezembro de 2022), resultando no aumento geral de 16%. Durante o período pré-COVID-19, as hospitalizações por bronquiolite aguda seguiram um padrão sazonal, que foi interrompido em 2020-2021, mas recuperaram-se em 2022, com um pico ocorrido em maio, aproximadamente 4% superior ao pico pré-COVID-19. Conclusões: Este estudo ressalta a influência significativa das intervenções contra a COVID-19 nas hospitalizações por bronquiolite aguda no Brasil. A restauração de um padrão sazonal em 2022 sublinha a interação entre as medidas de saúde pública e a dinâmica das doenças respiratórias em crianças pequenas.

Spinal anesthesia in children: an educational review / Anestesia raquídea en niños: una revisión educativa

Abstract Despite the well-known benefits of spinal anesthesia (SA), this technique remains underutilized among pediatric anesthesiologists. According to the data from the Pediatric Regional Anesthesia Network, SA accounted for less than 5% of all neuraxial techniques. Some of the factors for underutilization of SA include: Limited duration, unfamiliarity with the technique in younger children, and surgeon preference for general anesthesia. The safe and successful use of SA in children involves recognition of anatomical and physiological differences between adults and children owing to differences in bony structures, spinal cord growth and cerebrospinal fluid physiology. Reports on successful use of SA in children for various surgeries have increased. This educational review summarizes what is known about SA in children, reviews the literature from the last decade and provides suggestions for development of SA in children. Technical considerations, role of ultrasound, guidance on dosing, physiological effects, unexplained aspects of the mechanism of action and combined caudal/SA are discussed.

Resumen A pesar de los beneficios bien conocidos de la anestesia raquídea (AR), esta técnica sigue siendo subutilizada entre los anestesiólogos pediátricos. De acuerdo con los datos de la Red Regional de Anestesia Pediátrica, la AR representó menos del 5% de todas las técnicas neuroaxiales. Algunos de los factores a los que se atribuye dicha subutilización son: su duración limitada, la falta de familiaridad con la técnica en niños de menor edad, y la preferencia del anestesiólogo por la anestesia general. El uso seguro y exitoso de la AR en niños implica el claro conocimiento de las diferencias anatómicas y fisiológicas entre adultos y niños, en virtud de las diferencias en las estructuras óseas, el crecimiento de la médula espinal y la fisiología del líquido cefalorraquídeo. Los reportes sobre el uso exitoso de la AR en niños para diferentes cirugías ha aumentado. La presente revisión educativa resumen la información conocida sobre AR en niños, revisiones de la literatura de la última década y ofrece sugerencias para el desarrollo de la AR en población pediátrica. Se discuten consideraciones técnicas, el papel de la ecografía, orientación sobre la dosificación, los efectos fisiológicos, aspectos no explicados del mecanismo de acción y la combinación de anestesia raquídea/caudal.

The trajectory of head circumference and neurodevelopment in very preterm newborns during the first two years of life: a cohort study

Abstract Objective To evaluate the growth trajectory of head circumference and neurodevelopment, and to correlate head circumference with cognitive, language, and motor outcomes during the first two years. Method Prospective cohort study in a tertiary hospital including 95 newborns under 32 weeks or 1500 g. Neonates who developed major neonatal morbidities were excluded. The head circumference was measured at birth, at discharge, and at term-equivalent age, 1, 3, 5, 12, 18, and 24 months of corrected age, and the Bayley Scales (Bayley-III) were applied at 12, 18 and 24 months of corrected age to assess cognitive, language and, motor domains. Scores below 85 were classified as mild/moderate deficits and scores below 70 as severe deficits. The association between head circumference Z score and Bayley scores was assessed using Pearson's correlation. The study considered a significance level of 0.05. Results There was a decrease of -0.18 in the head circumference Z score between birth and discharge and the catch-up occurred between discharge and 1 month (an increase of 0.81 in the Z score). There was a positive correlation between head circumference and Bayley scores at 18 months. There was also a positive correlation between head circumference at discharge and at 5 months with the three domains of the Bayley. Conclusion Serial measurements of head circumference provide knowledge of the trajectory of growth, with early catch-up between discharge and 1 month, as well as its association with neurodevelopment. Head circumference is therefore a valuable clinical marker for neurodevelopment, especially in very preterm newborns.

Clinical characteristics of neonatal and infant osteomyelitis and septic arthritis: a multicenter retrospective study

Abstract Objective: Signs and symptoms of osteomyelitis or septic arthritis in neonates and infants are often nonspecific and early-stage bone infections in infants may often go unnoticed. The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics of newborns and infants with osteomyelitis and septic arthritis to improve understanding of the disorder and to assist clinicians with diagnosis. Methods: A retrospective multicenter study was conducted on neonates (0-28 days old, n = 94) and infants (1-12 months old, n = 415) with osteoarticular infections. Data consisting of clinical characteristics, complications, laboratory outcomes, and the pathogenic microorganisms causing osteomyelitis were tabulated. The statistics were further broken down into two regions and the significant differences between neonates and infants were evaluated and compared to the literature. Results: Compared to infants, neonates had significantly lower incidences of fever (p < 0.0001), higher incidences of localized swelling (p = 0.0021), higher rate of infection at the humerus (p = 0.0016), higher percentage of Escherichia coli (p < 0.0001) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (p = 0.0039) infections, lower percentage of Staphylococcus aureus infections (p < 0.0001) and were more likely to develop septic arthritis (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Distinct differences were found between neonatal and infants with osteoarticular infections. Future studies should focus on improving diagnosis and subsequent treatment regimens for younger age groups.

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis and the effect of breastfeeding on atopic dermatitis among Saudi infants aged up to six months in the Al Madinah region

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin condition in infants, and breastfeeding has been proposed as a potential protective factor. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of AD in infants based on guardians' reports and the impact of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and formula feeding on the incidence of AD among Saudi infants in the Al Madinah region. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 200 mothers with infants was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Data collected included demographics, breastfeeding practices, infant characteristics, allergies, and AD diagnosis. Statistical analysis employed chi-square. Results: There were a total of 200 infants, out of which 145 (72.5%) had AD, as confirmed by pediatricians. Gender was significantly associated with the prevalence of AD. Based on their nutritional source, 62 (42.8%) were on EBF, and 83 (57.2%) were non-EBF. Infant nutrition was found to be significantly associated with the hospitalization time of infants because of AD. Other AD risk factors, such as parental allergies, feeding frequencies, and frequency of AD episodes, were not significantly associated with the type of feeding. Conclusions: This study found that AD is quite prevalent in the Al Madinah region of Saudi Arabia. AD was more prevalent in male infants than in females. It suggests that EBF may be a protective factor against hospitalization of Saudi infants because of AD.

A study of incidence of respiratory distress syndrome in newborns born to mothers with gestational diabetes

Background: Hyaline membrane disease/RDS is an important cause for newborn morbidity and mortality. Many studies have established an association of infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs) with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) since decades. Modern lifestyle changes have increased the prevalence of obesity in women and thus diabetes in pregnancy. Maintaining strict euglycemia is a double-edged sword in pregnancy which has been affecting the neonatal health and respiratory maturity in particular which has been associated with increased mortality and morbidity.Methods: It was a prospective case control study done over a span of one year.Results: Hyaline membrane disease (RDS) is significantly associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Conclusions: Even our study emphasized the ill effects of gestational diabetes on the respiratory development of baby. Most of the babies are manageable and outcome can be drastically improved by early diagnosis and efficient treatment. Education and anticipation of the complications and prompt referral are the need of the hour in peripheries and advancement of neonatal intensive cares in the referral hospitals is needed.

Desafios de profissionais no atendimento à diversidade de cuidadores de bebês na Atenção Básica / Challenges for professionals to assist the diversity of baby caregivers in Primary Care / Desafíos de los profesionales para atender la diversidad de cuidadores de bebés en Atención Primaria

INTRODUÇÃO: As políticas de saúde infantil da Atenção Básica preconizam pela perspectiva do cuidado integral, associadas ao princípio da territorialidade. Contudo, abarcar a diversidade do território constitui-se enquanto um importante desafio para os profissionais de saúde responsáveis pelas consultas periódicas dos bebês, sobretudo em locais com forte tradição cultural hegemônica. OBJETIVO: O presente estudo buscou investigar as experiências e desafios de profissionais de saúde com a diversidade de cuidadores, saberes e práticas de cuidado nos atendimentos a bebês de 0 a 2 anos na Atenção Básica de Caxias do Sul, RS. MÉTODO: Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo envolvendo entrevistas online com 12 profissionais de saúde de quatro UBS da cidade, cujos dados foram analisados através de uma leitura psicanalítica. RESULTADOS e DISCUSSÃO: Constatou-se que há uma diversidade de cuidadores nas consultas dos bebês, sobretudo mães italianas, avós italianas e cuidadores imigrantes não italianos. Ainda, as consultas acabam se tornando um palco de embates entre profissionais e cuidadores, especialmente no tocante às dissonâncias sobre os saberes e práticas de cuidado ao bebê. CONCLUSÃO: Os saberes dos cuidadores que não estão em consonância com as políticas de saúde são percebidos pelos profissionais de saúde enquanto desafios na efetivação do cuidado integral dos bebês.

INTRODUCTION: Child health policies in Primary Health Care (PHC) operate from the perspective of comprehensive care, associated with the principle of territoriality. However, embracing the diversity of the territory is an important challenge for health professionals responsible for the infant's periodic consultations, especially in territories with a strong hegemonic cultural tradition. OBJECTIVE: This study sought to investigate the experiences and challenges of health professionals with the diversity of caregivers, traditional knowledge, and care practices regarding infants aged 0 to 2 years in PHC, in a southern city of Brazil. METHOD: This qualitative study involved online interviews with 12 health professionals from four PHC Centers, whose data were analyzed through a psychoanalytical reading. RESULTS and DISCUSSION: It was found that there is a diversity of caregivers in the infant's consultations, especially Italian mothers, Italian grandmothers and non-Italian immigrant caregivers. Moreover, the consultations become a stage for disparities between professionals and caregivers, especially because of the disagreements about the traditional knowledge and baby care practices. CONCLUSIONS: The caregiver's traditional knowledge that differs from the health policies end up being perceived by health professionals as challenges in the achievement of comprehensive care for infants.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las políticas de salud infantil en Atención Primaria abogan por prácticas profesionales basadas en la perspectiva de la atención integral, asociada al principio de territorialidad. Sin embargo, acoger la diversidad del territorio es un desafío para los profesionales de la salud responsables de las consultas periódicas con los bebés, especialmente en lugares con una fuerte tradición cultural hegemónica. OBJETIVO: Este estudio investigó las experiencias y desafíos de los profesionales de salud con la diversidad de cuidadores, saberes y prácticas de cuidado en consultas de bebés de 0 a 2 años, en Atención Primaria de una ciudad del sur de Brasil. MÉTODO: Se trata de una investigación cualitativa que involucra entrevistas online con 12 profesionales de cuatro centros de salud, cuyos datos fueron analizados a través de una lectura psicoanalítica. RESULTADOS y DISCUSSIÓN: Se encontró que existe diversidad de cuidadores, especialmente madres/abuelas italianas y cuidadoras inmigrantes no italianas. Las consultas se convierten en escenario de enfrentamientos entre profesionales y cuidadores en lo que se refiere a los diferentes conocimientos y prácticas del cuidado. CONCLUSIÓN: Los conocimientos de los cuidadores que no se ajustan a las políticas de salud acaban siendo percibidos por los profesionales como desafíos en la concreción de la atención integral al bebé.

Feasibility of fetal echocardiography screening during first trimester in a low-risk population

Background: Prenatal identification of cardiac defect gives families the opportunity to receive counselling regarding the anticipated fetal and neonatal outcomes. Screening and diagnosis of congenital heart disease in the first trimester has increased over the past decade as almost all CHDs are already established by that time. Objective was to assess the feasibility of screening through first trimester echocardiography by a trained observer in low-risk populations.Methods: The study was conducted on a sample of 500 antenatal mothers of gestational age between 11-13 weeks+6 days attending a teaching hospital. Maternal age, weight, height, body mass index, parity, gestational age, obstetric history and past history were recorded. In addition to first trimester ultrasound screening for aneuploidy in foetuses, a simplified echocardiographic examination was performed. After obtaining the appropriate fetal position, Crown-rump length was documented. Nuchal translucency thickness was recorded. After examination with 2-dimensional sonography, the operator obtained the tricuspid flow and ductus venosus flow. Color flow mapping was applied for evaluating the 4-chamber view and three vessel tracheal views. Specific criteria developed for the 4-chamber view, 3 vessel trachea view, tricuspid flow and ductus venosus flow was used to assess feasibility.Results: Good feasibility was observed for all the views, with tricuspid flow showing 96% feasibility, Ductus Venosus showing 95% feasibility, 3VT view showing 90.1% feasibility and 4CV view having 89.7% feasibility. There was no significant association found between maternal BMI, CRL and the feasibility of fetal cardiac screening.Conclusions: Encouraging results of this study indicates the feasibility of fetal cardiac screening in low-risk population.

Asymptomatic carriage of pneumococcus in children under 2 years of age in Libreville: prevalence and associated factors

Background: The morbidity and mortality attributed to pneumococcus are impressive even in the absence of any problem of antibiotic resistance. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic pneumococcal carriage in children aged between 2 months and 2 years in Libreville and to identify the socio-demographic factors associated with carriage.Methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study from September 2019 to February 2020, including infants aged 2 months to 2 years, randomly selected, in 8 health centres in Libreville. We collected sociodemographic data from children and parents. Nasopharyngeal swabs were taken from each child and analyzed in the laboratory of institut de recherche en ecologie tropicale (IRET). Categorical data were expressed as frequencies. Univariate analyses (odd ratio-OR) were performed to measure the relationship between the relevant variables and pneumococcal carriage, followed by a multivariate analysis using logistic regression. The threshold of statistical significance was set at p<0.05 for a two-tailed chi-square test.Results: Of the 434 children included, 51.2% (n=222) were girls, with a mean age of 5.4�2 months. Streptococcus pneumoniae was found in 53 children, giving a prevalence of 12.6% (95% CI [9.5-15.6%]). The prevalence was the same for both sexes. Carriage was associated with more than 2 siblings (OR=2.1; p=0.01); an age greater than 6 months (OR=3.6; p=0.001); a child's rank higher than the median (OR=2.3; p=0.006); a mother's low level of education (OR=4.5; p=0.001); a father working in the informal sector (OR=2.4; p=0.01). The mother's level of education was the factor found in the multivariate analysis (p=0.043).Conclusions: The data from this survey encourage the serotyping of strains to guide the vaccination strategy.

Retinopathy of prematurity: prevalence, screening and treatment

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a serious ocular condition arising from improper blood vessel development in the retina, predominantly affecting infants born prematurely or with a birth weight under 1500 g. A global estimate from 2010 indicated that approximately 184,700 infants developed ROP, with around 50,000 progressing to severe stages, yet only 42% received treatment. This article undertakes a thorough review, commencing on 07th November 2023, leveraging databases like Pubmed and Cochrane to synthesize current knowledge and emerging trends in ROP prevalence, screening methodologies, and treatment options. Screening involves repeated eye exams and innovative tools to identify high-risk infants early on. Treatment approaches, encompassing cryotherapy, laser therapy, and anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) medications, are tailored to the severity of ROP. Rigorous follow-up assessments are pivotal for tracking progress and ensuring the welfare of infants undergoing ROP interventions. This comprehensive exploration seeks to enhance awareness and understanding of ROP's global prevalence, screening protocols, and evolving treatments, ultimately contributing to informed decision-making and the advancement of best practices in the early identification and management of ROP among premature infants.

Risk factors for developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants in Yili area / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To investigate the in-hospital screening results of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in infants and young children in Ili area, and to analyze the risk factors affecting the occurrence of DDH. Methods According to the cluster sampling method 5 536 infants and young children who underwent DDH screening in the pediatric outpatient department and orthopedic outpatient department of our hospital from December 2019 to June 2022 were selected as the research objects. The children who met the diagnostic criteria of DDH were selected as the observation group (n=35), and 100 normal children were selected as the control group. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to determine the independent risk factors affecting the occurrence of DDH in infants. Results Among the 39 cases were positive in primary screening, 35 cases were positive in secondary screening, and the positive rate was 6.32‰ . The results of single factor analysis showed that the proportion of women, second birth and above, caesarean section, breech delivery, family history, high altitude area, living environment room temperature °C, and leg binding when swaddling in the observation group was higher than that in the control group (P°C and leg binding in infants are related to the occurrence of DDH in infants, which can provide some reference for clinical screening, diagnosis and treatment.

The early prediction of umbilical cord blood S100β protein and lactate combined with amplitude integrated electroencephalogram in small for gestational age preterm infants with brain injury / 国际儿科学杂志

Objective:To explore the early predictive value of umbilical cord blood S100β protein and lactate combined with amplitude integrated electroencephalogram（aEEG）in small for gestational age（SGA）preterm infants with brain injury.Methods:One hundred and six cases of SGA preterm infants were enrolled in this study in Neonatology Department of Inner Mongolia People's Hospital from January 2019 to December 2021. Umbilical cord blood serum S100β protein and lactate at birth of All SGA preterm infants were tested，and aEEG was monitored at 6h and 72 h after birth，corrected gestational age of 32 weeks and 37 weeks. According to the diagnostic criteria of brain injury in preterm infants，SGA preterm infants were divided into brain injury group（45 cases）and non-brain injury group（61 cases），and compared the differences of S100β protein，lactate and the designated time aEEG between the two groups.SGA preterm infants with brain injury were further divided into symmetrical group（28 cases）and non-symmetrical group（15 cases）. The differences of umbilical cord blood S100β protein and lactate level between the two groups were compared，and the diagnostic value in different types of SGA preterm infants with brain injury was also compared.Results:SGA preterm infants in the brain injury group had significantly higher levels of umbilical cord blood S100β protein［（0.826±0.218）μg/L vs（0.397±0.196）μg/L， t=8.316， P<0.05］and lactate［（8.5±1.3）mmol/L vs（3.8±0.9）mmol/L， t=3.281， P<0.05］than those in non-brain injury group.Symmetric SGA group had higher level of S100β protein than the asymmetric SGA group［（0.924±0.205）μg/L vs（0.438±0.196）μg/L， t=5.734， P<0.05］.But there was no statistically significant difference in lactate levels［（5.6±1.4）mmol/L vs（3.9±1.2）mmol/L， t=0.932， P>0.05］between symmetric SGA group and asymmetric SGA group. The abnormal rates of aEEG in brain injury group and non-brain injury group were respectively 100%（45/45）vs 22.95%（14/61）at 6 h after birth，95.56%（43/45）vs 16.39%（10/61）at 72 h after birth，62.22%（28/45）vs 6.56%（4/61）at 32 weeks of corrected gestational age，22.22%（10/45）vs 3.28%（2/61）at 37 weeks of corrected gestational age. The abnormal rate of brain injury group was higher than the non-brain injury group in the same nodal time，and the differences were statistically significant（ χ 2 value respectively 62.292，64.913，38.074，9.257，all P<0.05）. Conclusion:There were significant value in umbilical cord blood S100β protein，lactate level and aEEG monitoring in the early diagnosis in preterm infants SGA with brain injury. The combination of the three might be more helpful for the early diagnosis and timely treatment of brain injury in SGA preterm infants.

Construction and validation of Alignment Diagram model for risk of parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis in extremely/ultra-low birth weight infants / 中国小儿急救医学

Objective:To explore the high-risk factors for parenteral nutrition associated cholestasis（PNAC）in extremely/ultra-low birth weight infants，and establish a risk Alignment Diagram prediction model.Methods:We retrospectivly analyzed the clinical data of hospitalized extremely/ultra-low birth weight infants admitted to Neonatology Department at Quanzhou Children's Hospital from January 2019 to December 2020，using multivariate Logistic regression analysis to screen for independent risk factors for the occurrence of PNAC.An Alignment Diagram model prediction model for PNAC was constructed by using R software，and the performance of the model was evaluated through receiver operating characteristic curves.Results:A total of 203 extremely/ultra-low birth weight infants were included，with a median gestational age of 29.14（28.00，30.86）weeks and a median birth weight of 1　170（1　000,1　300）g.Among them，26（12.81%）cases developed PNAC.Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the duration of parenteral nutrition（ OR=1.015 ，95% CI 1.003-1.034），the cumulative amount of glucose（ OR=1.014 ，95% CI 1.001-1.028），small for gestational age（ OR=3.455 ，95% CI 1.127-10.589），and neonatal sepsis（ OR=3.142 ，95% CI 1.039-9.503）were independent risk factors for PNAC（ P＜0.05）；The four independent risk factors mentioned above were introduced into R software to construct an Alignment Diagram model，the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.835（95% CI 0.842-0.731），and the results of the Hosmer Limeshow goodness of fit test show that：χ 2=5.34，degree of freedom=8， P=0.72.A calibration curve indicated good consistency between the predicted probability of the model and the actual occurrence rate，with good accuracy. Conclusion:The Alignment Diagram model constructed based on four independent risk factors of the duration of parenteral nutrition，glucose accumulation，small for gestational age infants，and neonatal sepsis exhibits high predictive ability，and is expected to provide an intuitive and convenient visualization tool for preventing or reducing the occurrence of PNAC in extremely/ultra-low birth weight infants

Clinical characteristics of nephrocalcinosis in preterm infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical characteristics and risk factors of nephrocalcinosis in preterm infants.Methods:From March 2021 to August 2021, all preterm infants admitted to NICU of our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. The infants were assigned into nephrocalcinosis group and non-nephrocalcinosis group according to urinary tract ultrasound. Clinical data including gestational age, birth weight(BW), nutritional support strategy and complications were reviewed.Results:A total of 40 preterm infants (<34 weeks) were enrolled. 9 cases were in the nephrocalcinosis group and 31 cases in the non-nephrocalcinosis group. The nephrocalcinosis group had lower BW[(1 167±214) g vs.(1 586±215) g], higher calcium [6.9 (5.1, 8.7) g vs.3.3 (2.1, 6.8) g] and vitamin D intake [3.2(2.5, 4.2)×10 4U vs.1.7(1.1, 3.2)×10 4U] during hospitalization. No significant differences existed between the two groups on the following items:blood calcium and phosphate, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, feeding strategy, time to reach full enteral feeding(TFF), furosemide dosage and respiratory support duration ( P>0.05). In the nephrocalcinosis group, the median age of diagnosing nephrocalcinosis was 40.0(30.0, 52.5)d after birth. 5 cases showed bilateral nephrocalcinosis. 5 cases in the nephrocalcinosis group received renal tubule function examination,4 cases had increased urine β2 microglobulin and 2 cases had increased urine α1 microglobulin. 7 cases had elevated urine calcium in the nephrocalcinosis group. Follow-up showed that nephrocalcinosis disappeared 3-9 months after birth. Conclusions:BW, total calcium and vitamin D intake are risk factors for nephrocalcinosis in preterm infants. Increased urine β2 microglobulin and calcium levels are common co-morbidities in preterm infants with nephrocalcinosis.

Longitudinal extrauterine growth restriction in extremely preterm infants: current status and prediction model / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the current status of longitudinal extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) in extremely preterm infants (EPIs) and to develop a prediction model based on clinical data from multiple NICUs.Methods:From January 2017 to December 2018, EPIs admitted to 32 NICUs in North China were retrospectively studied. Their general conditions, nutritional support, complications during hospitalization and weight changes were reviewed. Weight loss between birth and discharge > 1SD was defined as longitudinal EUGR. The EPIs were assigned into longitudinal EUGR group and non-EUGR group and their nutritional support and weight changes were compared. The EPIs were randomly assigned into the training dataset and the validation dataset with a ratio of 7∶3. Univariate Cox regression analysis and multiple regression analysis were used in the training dataset to select the independent predictive factors. The best-fitting Nomogram model predicting longitudinal EUGR was established based on Akaike Information Criterion. The model was evaluated for discrimination efficacy, calibration and clinical decision curve analysis.Results:A total of 436 EPIs were included in this study, with a mean gestational age of (26.9±0.9) weeks and a birth weight of (989±171) g. The incidence of longitudinal EUGR was 82.3%(359/436). Seven variables (birth weight Z-score, weight loss, weight growth velocity, the proportion of breast milk ≥75% within 3 d before discharge, invasive mechanical ventilation ≥7 d, maternal antenatal corticosteroids use and bronchopulmonary dysplasia) were selected to establish the prediction model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the training dataset and the validation dataset were 0.870 (95% CI 0.820-0.920) and 0.879 (95% CI 0.815-0.942), suggesting good discrimination efficacy. The calibration curve indicated a good fit of the model ( P>0.05). The decision curve analysis showed positive net benefits at all thresholds. Conclusions:Currently, EPIs have a high incidence of longitudinal EUGR. The prediction model is helpful for early identification and intervention for EPIs with higher risks of longitudinal EUGR. It is necessary to expand the sample size and conduct prospective studies to optimize and validate the prediction model in the future.

Analysis of clinical characteristic and risk factors for necrotizing enterocolitis in one of the premature twins / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical characteristics and risk factors of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in one of the premature twins.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted on twin premature infants who were admitted to the Department of Neonatology at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2017 to December 2022 and only one got NEC. The twins were divided into NEC group and control group, the clinical data were collected and analyzed by SPSS 26.0 statistical software.Results:This study enrolled 109 pairs of premature twins, 109 cases in the NEC group, and 109 cases in the control group. Univariate analysis showed that birth weight, pre NEC white blood cell count were lower in NEC group than those in the control group, while the proportion of smaller than gestational age (SGA), donor of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, feeding intolerance, incomplete enteral feeding, start feeding time >48 h, red blood cell transfusion 72 h before NEC onset and the neutrophils ratio were higher in the NEC group than that of the control group, the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that low birth weight ( OR=1.558, 95% CI1.197-2.142), SGA ( OR=1.721, 95% CI 1.217-2.536), feeding intolerance ( OR=3.798, 95% CI 1.347-10.706), and incomplete enteral feeding ( OR=4.319, 95% CI 1.673-11.149) were independent risk factors for NEC ( P<0.05). Conclusions:Low birth weight, small for gestational age, feeding intolerance, and incomplete enteral feeding are independent risk factors for NEC in one of the premature twins.

Comparison of Two Different Suture Knotting Methods in Thoracoscopic Diaphragm Plication in the Treatment of Diaphragmatic Eventration in Infants / 中国微创外科杂志

Objective To discuss the feasibility,safety and surgical effect of the modified Prolene thread double-headed needle"U-shaped"suture combined with extra-and intracavity combination knotting method in thoracoscopic diaphragm plication in the treatment of diaphragmatic eventration in infants.Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical data of 70 infants who underwent thoracoscopic diaphragm plication in the treatment of diaphragmatic eventration in our hospital from May 2010 to May 2022.According to the different methods of suturing and knotting,the patients were divided into the improved group(modified Prolene thread double-headed needle"U-shaped"suture combined with extra-and intracavity combination knotting method,n =30)and the conventional group(intracavity suture knotting method,n = 40).The perioperative indicators,as well as whether there was knot loosening or recurrence of diaphragmatic eventration,were compared between the two groups.Results All the 70 operations were performed safely and successfully,without conversion to open surgery.The operation time in the improved group was significantly less than that in the conventional group[(35.3±7.4)min vs.(64.7±10.8)min,t =13.521,P =0.000].There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of intraoperative bleeding volume,indwelling time of thoracic drainage tube,postoperative hospital stay,preoperative,intraoperative,and postoperative pH values,PO2,and PCO2 in arterial blood gas,and postoperative slight diaphragm elevation(P>0.05).All the 70 cases were followed up for 6-24 months postoperatively,with a median follow-up time of 12 months,having no knot loosening or recurrence of diaphragmatic eventration.No death was reported.Conclusions The modified Prolene thread double-headed needle"U-shaped"suture combined with extra-and intracavity combination knotting method in thoracoscopic diaphragm plication in the treatment of diaphragmatic eventration in infants is safe,feasible,effective,and easy to operate.Doctors with a certain endoscopic surgery experience can master it quickly,which is suitable for promotion in qualified hospitals.

Status quo of preterm infants′ feeding difficulties at weaning and self-feeding transition stage and its influencing factors / 中国儿童保健杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the prevalence and influencing factors of feeding difficulties in preterm infants at weaning and self-feeding transition stage, so as to provide a scientific basis for the management of feeding preterm infants. 【Methods】 Preterm infants at corrected age of 6 - 24 months were recruited from the Department of Child Health of five maternal and child health hospital of Chengdu from April to May 2021, and were surveyed by using the Chinese Version of the Montreal Children Hospital Feeding Scale (MCF-FS) and the self-designed questionnaire on the influencing factors of feeding difficulties. Then the status quo of feeding difficulties and its influencing factors were analyzed. 【Results】 The prevalence rate of feeding difficulties in 231 preterm infants was 32%. Among them, the prevalence rate of mild, moderate and severe feeding difficulties was 15.2%, 7.8% and 9.1%, respectively. Binary Logistic stepwise regression analysis indicated that food allergy (OR=4.253, 95%CI: 1.430 - 12.649), anxious mood of caregivers (OR=6.064, 95%CI: 2.998 - 12.268), tease or chase during eating(OR=2.873, 95%CI: 1.382 - 5.970), recreational activities at eating (OR=2.328, 95%CI: 1.115 - 4.860), and forced feeding (OR=2.772, 95%CI: 1.239 - 6.198) were positively associated with feeding difficulty of preterm infants(P<0.05). 【Conclusion】 Feeding difficulties in the weaning and self-feeding transition period of preterm infants are prevalent, so the guidance should focus on premature infants with food allergy, anxious caregivers and improper feeding behaviors, and appropriate interventions should be taken to promote scientific feeding.

Research progress on the neurocognitive development of small for gestational age / 中国儿童保健杂志

Small for gestational age (SGA) infants are more likely to experience neurocognitive impairments compared to appropriate for gestational age (AGA) infants. This paper reviews recent research on the neurocognitive development of SGA children. SGA can lead to a "brain-sparing effect" due to growth restriction, which may affect cerebral blood flow and brain structure. However, this does not guarantee normal brain development. Restrictive blood flow can result in changes in brain structure, such as reduced total white matter and gray matter volume in various brain regions, including the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum, ultimately leading to decreased head circumference. SGA children also exhibit lower scores in all neurocognitive domains, including intelligence, attention, memory, and executive function. This may result in poor academic performance and an increased risk of social, behavioral, and neurological problems, such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, visual and hearing impairments, as well as comorbidities like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD), autism spectrum disorder(ASD), anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Several risk factors for SGA-related neurocognitive impairments have been identified, including gestational hypertension, abnormal gestational weight, smoking, and catch-up growth. Studies have shown that the best interventions to improve cognitive dysplasia include nutrient supplementation, continued breastfeeding, high-quality education, and appropriate early intervention (responsive parenting) are effective in improving cognitive outcomes for SGA children.

New concepts of complementary feeding in infants and toddlers / 中国儿童保健杂志

Infants go through a transition period before fully adapting to a diversified balanced diet after being breastfed, during which foods introduced other than milk, aimed at supplementing energy and nutrients, are referred to as complementary foods. The process of introducing complementary foods is called complementary feeding (CF). The purpose and significance of adding complementary foods include not only supplementing energy and nutrients, but also promoting the development of eating skills and fine motor functions, establishing healthy eating and food-related psychological behaviors, preventing food allergies and other allergic diseases, and materializing diversity of children′s gut flora. The feeding suggestions of introducing red meat paste first other than iron-fortified baby rice flour at the age of 6 months, and rapidly achieving diversified food exposure, is comply with the above principles. This article analyzes the purpose of infant CF, reviews the historical development of CF, and interprets relevant feeding recommendations based on new concepts of CF.