The lived experience of South African men having a premature baby.

Background: Much has been written about fathers, fatherhood and premature babies. However, in the South African context, studies about the experiences of fathers having a premature baby are lacking. Aim: This study aimed to explore how South African fathers (n = 10) experience having a premature baby using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Setting: This research study was conducted online using various social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Google Meet and through telephonic conversations. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological approach that allowed for the distillation and elucidation of common core experiences among fathers who had a premature baby. Results: The findings demonstrated that the participants experienced intense fears regarding the survival and well-being of their children. They reported experiencing financial difficulties related to hospital bills and experienced being alienated by hospital institutions. Despite these reported barriers, these fathers were adamant in their resolve to support their children and partners during this challenging time. Conclusion: The experiences of fathers were riddled with fear, uncertainty, ambiguity and alienation, which placed them in very precarious situations when trying to navigate their role in a more sensitive and enlightened way. Having a premature infant calls into question the systems that men are positioned within as these systems to a large extent shape these events and how they are experienced. Contribution: This study is original as no other published studies seem to exist in South Africa that speaks to fathers' lived experiences of having a premature baby.

Ductus Arteriosus in Fetal and Perinatal Life.

The ductus arteriosus represents an essential vascular structure connecting the pulmonary artery and the aorta. Over the past decades, there has been substantial advancement in our understanding of both the fundamental and clinical aspects of the ductus arteriosus. In particular, the clarification of the regulatory mechanisms governing ductal patency in critical stages such as the fetal and the perinatal period has enabled optimal management of both physiological and pathological conditions in which the ductus arteriosus plays a crucial role. Furthermore, a more in-depth understanding of the regulatory mechanisms controlling this fundamental structure has facilitated the development of advanced therapeutic strategies and personalized interventions. In the present review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the ductus arteriosus during fetal and perinatal life, encompassing its physiological functions, pathological conditions, and clinical implications. Through this examination, we aim to contribute to a broader understanding of the ductus arteriosus' role in these critical developmental stages and its significance in clinical practice.

Impact of Early Nutrition Interventions on the Growth and Development of Preterm Infants: A Narrative Review.

Preterm birth remains a significant global health concern as it can lead to various health complications and long-term developmental challenges. Early nutrition intervention plays a crucial role in optimizing the growth, development, and overall health outcomes of premature infants. This review aims to summarize and analyze the existing literature regarding the effect of early nutrition interventions on premature babies. A comprehensive search was conducted through various electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focusing on nutrition interventions specifically targeting premature infants. The review highlights the benefits of early nutrition interventions, including enteral and parenteral feeding, human milk, and the provision of specific nutrients. These interventions have been shown to enhance growth rates, promote neurodevelopmental outcomes, reduce the incidence and severity of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), reduce the risk of infection, and improve overall morbidity and mortality rates in premature babies. Overall, the findings from this review suggest that early nutrition interventions have a positive impact on the health and developmental outcomes of premature babies. However, further research is required to determine the optimal approaches, optimal timing, and long-term effects of various interventions. Collaboration between healthcare providers, researchers, and families is crucial in implementing evidence-based nutrition practices and supporting the growth and development of premature infants.

Women's experiences providing kangaroo mother care in an academic hospital in Tshwane, Gauteng.

Preterm birth can be stressful for mothers and have negative consequences for the natural establishment of the mother-infant relationship. A high-impact, economical, and potentially life-saving strategy for the care of preterm and low-birthweight babies is kangaroo mother care (KMC). The literature suggests challenges to and enablers of KMC implementation in low-resource environments. The aim was to explore and describe women's experiences of providing KMC to their preterm babies. A qualitative, exploratory and descriptive approach was adopted. An unstructured interview guide was used to collect data during a focus group interview with mothers who provided kangaroo care. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's method. Four main themes emerged from the analyzed data. The results reflected on participants' positive experiences, parenting skills and challenges. The participants suggested measures to enhance their encounters while providing KMC. Nurses need to support mothers who provide KMC; continuous education and guidance can enhance the implementation of this evidence-based practice to improve health outcomes for both preterm babies and their mothers. There is a need for continued training and support for mothers practising KMC, along with the consideration for healthcare providers to offer postpartum services for the mothers.

Une naissance prématurée peut être stressante pour les mères et avoir des conséquences négatives sur l'établissement naturel de la relation mère-enfant. Les soins maternels kangourous (KMC) constituent une stratégie à fort impact, économique et potentiellement vitale pour les soins aux bébés prématurés et de faible poids de naissance. La littérature suggère des défis et des catalyseurs pour la mise en œuvre de KMC dans des environnements à faibles ressources. L'objectif était d'explorer et de décrire les expériences des femmes en matière de fourniture de KMC à leurs bébés prématurés. Une approche qualitative, exploratoire et descriptive a été adoptée. Un guide d'entretien non structuré a été utilisé pour collecter des données lors d'un groupe de discussion avec des mères qui prodiguaient des soins kangourous. Les données ont été analysées à l'aide de la méthode de Braun et Clarke. Quatre thèmes principaux ont émergé des données analysées. Les résultats reflètent les expériences positives des participants, leurs compétences parentales et leurs défis. Les participants ont suggéré des mesures pour améliorer leurs rencontres tout en fournissant des KMC. Les infirmières doivent soutenir les mères qui dispensent des soins KMC ; une éducation et des conseils continus peuvent améliorer la mise en œuvre de cette pratique fondée sur des données probantes pour améliorer les résultats de santé des bébés prématurés et de leurs mères. Il est nécessaire de poursuivre la formation et le soutien des mères pratiquant la KMC, ainsi que d'envisager que les prestataires de soins de santé offrent des services post-partum aux mères.

Transport and Anaesthesia Consideration for Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus Closure in Premature Infants.

Transcatheter device closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm infants has been proven to be a feasible and safe technique with promising results when compared to surgical ligation. However, managing transport and anaesthesia in extremely premature infants with haemodynamically significant PDA and limited reserves presents unique challenges. This review article focuses on the key considerations throughout the clinical pathway for the PDA device closure, including referral hospital consultation, patient selection, intra- and inter-hospital transport, and anaesthesia management. The key elements encompass comprehensive patient assessment, meticulous airway management, optimised ventilation strategies, precise thermoregulation, patient-tailored sedation protocols, vigilant haemodynamic monitoring, and safe transport measures throughout the pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative phases. A multidisciplinary approach enhances the chances of procedure success, improves patient outcomes, and minimises the risk of complications.

Gestational age assessed by optical skin reflection in low-birth-weight newborns: Applications in classification at birth.

Introduction: A new medical device was previously developed to estimate gestational age (GA) at birth by processing a machine learning algorithm on the light scatter signal acquired on the newborn's skin. The study aims to validate GA calculated by the new device (test), comparing the result with the best available GA in newborns with low birth weight (LBW). Methods: We conducted a multicenter, non-randomized, and single-blinded clinical trial in three urban referral centers for perinatal care in Brazil and Mozambique. LBW newborns with a GA over 24 weeks and weighing between 500 and 2,500 g were recruited in the first 24 h of life. All pregnancies had a GA calculated by obstetric ultrasound before 24 weeks or by reliable last menstrual period (LMP). The primary endpoint was the agreement between the GA calculated by the new device (test) and the best available clinical GA, with 95% confidence limits. In addition, we assessed the accuracy of using the test in the classification of preterm and SGA. Prematurity was childbirth before 37 gestational weeks. The growth standard curve was Intergrowth-21st, with the 10th percentile being the limit for classifying SGA. Results: Among 305 evaluated newborns, 234 (76.7%) were premature, and 139 (45.6%) were SGA. The intraclass correlation coefficient between GA by the test and reference GA was 0.829 (95% CI: 0.785-0.863). However, the new device (test) underestimated the reference GA by an average of 2.8 days (95% limits of agreement: -40.6 to 31.2 days). Its use in classifying preterm or term newborns revealed an accuracy of 78.4% (95% CI: 73.3-81.6), with high sensitivity (96.2%; 95% CI: 92.8-98.2). The accuracy of classifying SGA newborns using GA calculated by the test was 62.3% (95% CI: 56.6-67.8). Discussion: The new device (test) was able to assess GA at birth in LBW newborns, with a high agreement with the best available GA as a reference. The GA estimated by the device (test), when used to classify newborns on the first day of life, was useful in identifying premature infants but not when applied to identify SGA infants, considering current algohrithm. Nonetheless, the new device (test) has the potential to provide important information in places where the GA is unknown or inaccurate.

PHYSIOTHERAPY OF PREMATURELY BORN CHILDREN TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE DEGREE OF BIOLOGICAL IMMATURITY.

OBJECTIVE: The aim: 1. Clinical characteristics of premature babies taking into account the complications of the perinatal period. Determining the importance of physiotherapy and defining its place in the therapeutic process carried out in children born prematurely with varying degrees of biological immaturity. 2. Evaluation of the most commonly used physiotherapeutic methods in premature babies. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Material and methods: The study, using a self-authored survey, included parents of 42 premature babies who were between the ages of 1 and 14 months. RESULTS: Results: As many as 53% of premature babies were born in late preterm (34-36 weeks of pregnancy). 48% of children had low birth weight (1501-2500 grams). The most common complications of the perinatal period among premature babies were respiratory disorders (47%). Physiotherapy of premature babies took place in 50% of the subjects (21 children) due to psychomotor retardation resulting from their biological immaturity. The most commonly used physiotherapeutic method among premature babies was the NDT-Bobath neurodevelopmental method. It was used in as many as 74% of premature babies. CONCLUSION: Conclusions: Most premature babies are born in late preterm with low birth weight. Extremely early births are rare. The most common complications of the perinatal period among babies born prematurely are breathing disorders. Most premature babies require physiotherapy, and the main indication for it is psychomotor retardation, resulting from biological immaturity. The most commonly used physiotherapeutic method among premature babies is the NDT-Bobath neurodevelopmental method.

Impact of a multi-strain probiotic administration on peri-rectal colonization with drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria in preterm neonates.

Background: Infections caused by drug resistant Gram-negative bacteria (DR-GNB) are a major health concern for hospitalized preterm neonates, globally. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a multi-strain probiotic on the incidence of rectal colonization with DR-GNB in preterm neonates. Methods: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial was conducted including 200 neonates, randomly allocated to a multi-strain probiotic (n = 100) or placebo (n = 100). Results: Fifteen percent of the neonates showed peri-rectal colonization with DR-GNB on the day of enrolment indicating probable maternal-to-neonate (vertical) bacterial transmission or environmental acquisition at time of delivery, with no difference between groups. Acquisition of further DR-GNB colonization was rapid, with an increase from 15% on the day enrolment to 77% by day 7 and 83% by day 14 of life. By day 7 (corresponding to early gut colonization), neonates in the probiotic group were 57% less likely to have peri-rectal DR-GNB colonization [OR: 0.43 (0.20-0.95); p = 0.04] and by day 14 (corresponding to late gut colonization), neonates in the probiotic group were 93% less likely to have peri-rectal DR-GNB colonization [OR: 0.07 (0.02-0.23); p < 0.001]. Conclusion: Hospitalized neonates showed substantial peri-rectal colonization with DR-GNB at enrolment and further rapid acquisition of DR-GNB in the first 2 weeks of life. The use of a multi-strain probiotic was effective in reducing early and late neonatal gut colonization with DR-GNB. Clinical Trial Registration: The trial was registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR202011513390736).

Barriers and enablers to kangaroo mother care prior to stability from perspectives of Gambian health workers: A qualitative study.

Aims: Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is an evidence-based intervention recommended for stable newborns <2,000 g. Recent trials have investigated survival benefits of earlier initiation of KMC, including prior to stability, with WHO's iKMC trial showing 25% relative risk reduction for mortality of neonates 1-1.8 kg at tertiary Indian and African neonatal units (NNU). However, evidence is lacking about how to safely deliver this intervention to the most vulnerable neonates in resource limited settings (RLS). Our study aimed to understand barriers and enablers for early KMC prior to stability from perspectives of neonatal health care workers (HCW) in a high neonatal mortality RLS. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), the main neonatal referral unit in The Gambia. It was ancillary study to the eKMC clinical trial. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with all neonatal HCW cadres (4 nurses; 1 nurse attendant; 5 doctors; all Gambian). Study participants were purposively selected, and saturation was reached. Thematic analysis was conducted using Atun's conceptual framework for evaluation of new health interventions with methods to ensure data reliability and trustworthiness. Results: HCW's perceptions of early KMC prior to stability included recognition of potential benefits as well as uncertainty about effectiveness and safety. Barriers included: Unavailability of mothers during early neonatal unit admission; safety concerns with concomitant intravenous fluids and impact on infection prevention control; insufficient beds, space, WASH facilities and staffing; and lack of privacy and respectful care. Enablers included: Education of HCW with knowledge transfer to KMC providers; paternal and community sensitization and peer-to-peer support. Conclusions: Addressing health systems limitations for delivery of KMC prior to stability is foundational with linkage to comprehensive HCW and KMC provider education about effectiveness, safe delivery and monitoring. Further context specific research into safe and respectful implementation is required from varied settings and should include perceptions of all stakeholders, especially if there is a shift in global policy toward KMC for all small vulnerable newborns.

Contribuições e especificidades da clínica winnicottiana para a prematuridade: Evidências a partir de dois casos / Contributions and specificities of the Winnicottian clinic for prematurity: Evidence from two cases / Aportaciones y especificidades de la clínica de Winnicott para la prematuridad: Evidencia de dos casos

O presente estudo investigou as contribuições dos princípios e da técnica da clínica winnicottiana no atendimento a duas mães e seus bebês no contexto da prematuridade. No primeiro caso, a mãe tinha 20 anos e a filha nasceu com 27 semanas gestacionais, pesando 1.020 gramas, e permaneceu 81 dias no hospital; no segundo, a mãe tinha 21 anos e as filhas gêmeas nasceram com 27 semanas gestacionais, pesando 1.600 gramas, e permaneceram 49 dias no hospital. O atendimento foi realizado durante a internação dos bebês. O foco da análise dos resultados foi no processo do atendimento, considerando cinco eixos temáticos derivados dos atendimentos: tolerância e confiabilidade; setting constante e confiável; acompanhamento das mães nas primeiras aproximações das filhas; espaço para elaboração dos conflitos conjugais e familiares; e desafios e impasses da clínica winnicottiana para a prematuridade. Os resultados revelaram que os atendimentos auxiliaram as mães em suas dificuldades frente à maternidade, bem como para verbalizar e elaborar as culpas, as perdas, o luto e os medos que a experiência do nascimento prematuro agrega à maternidade.

The present study investigated the contributions of the principles and techniques of Winnicott's clinic in the care of two mothers and their babies in the context of prematurity. In the first case, the mother was 20 years old and the daughter was born at 27 weeks gestational age, weighing 1,020 grams, and stayed 81 days in the hospital. In the second, the mother was 21 years old and the twin daughters were born at 27 weeks gestational age, weighing 1,600 grams, and stayed 49 days in the hospital. Care was provided during the babies' hospitalization. The focus of the analysis of the results was on the process of care, considering five thematic axes derived from the sessions: tolerance and reliability; constant and reliable setting; support for the mothers in the first approaches to their daughters; room for the elaboration of conjugal and family conflicts; and challenges and impasses of the Winnicottian clinic for prematurity. The results revealed that the consultations helped the mothers in their difficulties facing maternity, as well as to verbalize and elaborate the guilt, losses, mourning and fears that the experience of premature birth adds to maternity.

El presente estudio investigó las contribuciones de los principios y técnicas de la clínica de Winnicott en el cuidado de dos madres y sus bebés en el contexto de la prematuridad. En el primer caso, la madre tenía 20 años y la hija nació a las 27 semanas de edad gestacional, con un peso de 1.020 gramos, y permaneció 81 días en el hospital. En el segundo, la madre tenía 21 años y las hijas gemelas nacieron a las 27 semanas de edad gestacional, pesaron 1.600 gramos, y permanecieron 49 días en el hospital. La atención se prestó durante la hospitalización de los bebés. El foco del análisis de los resultados fue el proceso de atención, considerando cinco ejes temáticos derivados de las consultas: tolerancia y confiabilidad; setting constante y confiable; acompañamiento de las madres en los primeros acercamientos a sus hijas; espacio para la elaboración de conflictos conyugales y familiares; y desafíos e impasses de la clínica winnicottiana para la prematuridad. Los resultados revelan que las consultas ayudaron a las madres en sus dificultades frente a la maternidad, así como a verbalizar y elaborar las culpas, las pérdidas, el duelo y los miedos que la experiencia del nacimiento prematuro añade a la maternidad.

Evaluation of Biophysical Properties of Potential Materials for the Manufacture of Protective Garments for Preterm Infants.

Preterm infants, due to immature and dysfunctional skin, have increased water loss through the skin and consequently a decreased body temperature. In order to develop protective garments for preterm infants, it is important to select materials that will protect the child against water and heat loss. The authors are currently involved in the development of protective garments for premature babies, which are similar to baby clothes and contain a membrane that is partially permeable for vapor in combination with textile materials. This article presents the study of materials intended for the production of protective garments for pre-term infants. Samples of materials were investigated to determine biophysical comfort (tests of heat resistance, vapor resistance according to PN-EN ISO 11092:2014-11 and air permeability according to PN-EN ISO 9237) and porosity, surface mass in accordance with PN-EN 12127, and thickness in accordance with PN-EN ISO 5084. In order to determine the porosity of materials and to visualize the structure, tests on computer microtomography were carried out. The mechanical properties of the tested materials and the evaluation of the total hand value were characterized; the samples were tested on the KES device. The aim of this study was to select the most suitable fabrics for protective garments for premature infants to prevent excessive heat and moisture loss from the body, which can lead to hypothermia. For laminates, the optimal results of vapor resistance and heat resistance were obtained for laminate (15 g·m-2 PE foil + 15 g·m-2 PP non-woven), with a level of thermal resistance of 0.0766 m2·K·W-1 and vapor resistance of 188.729 m2·Pa·W-1, and for laminate (15 g·m-2 PE foil + 10 g·m-2 PP non-woven), with a level of thermal resistance of 0.0683 m2·K·W-1 and vapor resistance of 164.085 m2·Pa·W-1. For knitted fabrics, knitwear single cotton 155 g·m-2 showed the highest thermal resistance (0.0296 m2·K·W-1), and knitwear interlock polyester 120 g·m-2 showed the lowest thermal resistance (0.0179 m2·K·W-1). Knitwear cotton 120 g·m-2 had the highest water vapor resistance (8.402 m2·Pa·W-1), while knitwear interlock polyester 130 g·m-2 sample had the lowest resistance (6.356 m2·Pa·W-1). Garments for premature babies should have moisture barrier properties and high thermal insulation. They should also be characterized by optimal air permeability properties. Sample two-layer laminate (15 g·m-2 PE foil + 15 g·m-2 PP non-woven) had the best vapor resistance and thermal insulation properties. Moreover, this sample was characterized by good air permeability and surface weight compared to the other laminate samples. During the design of garments for premature babies, it is important to reduce the surface weight to as low as possible. Among the knitted fabrics, a knitwear single cotton 120 g·m-2 knitwear polyester interlock 120 g·m-2 was selected for having the best THV or tactile comfort. In addition, these knits were chosen for their lower surface weight. Based on the conducted tests, two-layer laminate (15 g·m-2 PE foil + 15 g·m-2 PP non-woven), the knitwear single cotton 120 g·m-2, and knitwear polyester interlock 120 g·m-2 were selected for further research.

Neonatal Acute Kidney Injury.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common occurrence in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). In recent years, our knowledge of the incidence and impact of neonatal AKI on outcomes has expanded exponentially. Neonatal AKI has been shown to be associated with adverse outcomes including increased length of mechanical ventilation, prolonged length of stay, and rise in mortality. There has also been increasing work suggesting that neonates with AKI are at higher risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In the past, AKI had been defined multiple ways. The utilization of the neonatal modified Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria as the standard definition for neonatal AKI in research and clinical care has driven the advances in our understanding of neonatal AKI over the last 10 years. This definition has allowed researchers and clinicians to better understand the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with neonatal AKI across populations through a multitude of single-center studies and the seminal, multicenter Assessment of Worldwide Acute Kidney Injury Epidemiology in Neonates (AWAKEN) study. As the impacts of neonatal AKI have become clear, a shift in efforts toward identifying those at highest risk, protocolizing AKI surveillance, improving prevention and diagnosis, and expanding kidney support therapy (KST) for neonates has occurred. These efforts also include improving risk stratification (identifying high risk populations, including those with nephrotoxic medication exposure) and diagnostics (novel biomarkers and diagnostic tools). Recent work has also shown that the targeted use of methylxanthines may prevent AKI in a variety of high-risk populations. One of the most exciting developments in neonatal AKI is the advancement in technology to provide KST to neonates with severe AKI. In this comprehensive review we will provide an overview of recent work and advances in the field of neonatal AKI. This will include a detailed review of (1) the definition of neonatal AKI, (2) the epidemiology, risk factors, and outcomes associated with neonatal AKI, (3) improvements in risk stratification and diagnostics, (4) mitigation and treatment, (5) advancements in the provision of KST to neonates, and (6) the incidence and risk of subsequent CKD.

Vitamin D and calcium intakes in general pediatric populations: A French expert consensus paper.

OBJECTIVES: Nutritional vitamin D supplements are often used in general pediatrics. Here, the aim is to address vitamin D supplementation and calcium nutritional intakes in newborns, infants, children, and adolescents to prevent vitamin D deficiency and rickets in general populations. STUDY DESIGN: We formulated clinical questions relating to the following categories: the Patient (or Population) to whom the recommendation will apply; the Intervention being considered; the Comparison (which may be "no action," placebo, or an alternative intervention); and the Outcomes affected by the intervention (PICO). These PICO elements were arranged into the questions to be addressed in the literature searches. Each PICO question then formed the basis for a statement. The population covered consisted of children aged between 0 and 18 years and premature babies hospitalized in neonatology. Two groups were assembled: a core working group and a voting panel from different scientific pediatric committees from the French Society of Pediatrics and national scientific societies. RESULTS: We present here 35 clinical practice points (CPPs) for the use of native vitamin D therapy (ergocalciferol, vitamin D2 and cholecalciferol, vitamin D3) and calcium nutritional intakes in general pediatric populations. CONCLUSION: This consensus document was developed to provide guidance to health care professionals on the use of nutritional vitamin D and dietary modalities to achieve the recommended calcium intakes in general pediatric populations. These CPPs will be revised periodically. Research recommendations to study key vitamin D outcome measures in children are also suggested.

Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity: Long-Term Outcomes Following Intravitreal Bevacizumab.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to review the neonatal and early childhood course of children who were treated with intravitreal bevacizumab for APROP and identify any long term limitations these children face years after treatment. METHODS: This retrospective consecutive case series reviewed both ophthalmologic and pediatric medical records to determine ocular and neurologic function following treatment with a single injection of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) for APROP. Patient records were reviewed to identify the gestational age, average birth weight, gender, post-menstrual age (PMA) at the time of injection, regression status, rescue therapy events, final visual acuity, final refraction, ophthalmologic diagnoses and complications, neurologic diagnoses, and duration of follow up. RESULTS: The study included 43 eyes from 13 male and 9 female children. The average gestational age was 24 weeks and average birth weight was 625.2 grams. The average follow-up was 4.08 years (range: 1.85-7.36 years). The average PMA at time of bevacizumab injection was 35.59 weeks. Thirty-five eyes eventually received laser photocoagulation at an average PMA of 53.17 weeks. All eyes in this study demonstrated regression without progression to retinal detachment. At last follow up, 67% (29/43) of eyes were able to discern letters or shapes, with an average visual acuity of 20/37. 16 (72%) children were diagnosed with perinatal neurological disorders. 59% (n = 13) developed chronic neurological impairment, 77% (n = 10) of whom developed neurodevelopmental delay. Several infants were diagnosed with endocrine disease or genetic syndromes. CONCLUSIONS: Extreme prematurity is associated with significant morbidity. Nearly all infants (92%) who developed chronic neurologic disease were diagnosed with neurologic disease during the perinatal period. Intravitreal bevacizumab, often with adjuvant photocoagulation, led to regression without detachment in 100% of eyes, with most verbal children retaining functional vision.

[Optimization of neonatal hospital care for very preterm babies while supporting early parent-child relationships]. / Optimizatsiya vykhazhivaniya nedonoshennykh novorozhdennykh na gospital'nykh etapakh rannei pomoshchi pri podderzhke detsko-roditel'skikh otnoshenii.

Research shows that not only medical but also psychological factors such as parents' emotional state, their parenting skills, quality of very early relationships with the infant influence child's physical and mental health and development. The support of good infant-mother relationships is an essential part of early family-centered help to premature babies. The article reviews existing evidence-based programs of neonatal care and support of early mother-child relationships for preterm babies at the hospital. It covers three main directions: discussing with parents prognosis of a child's health and development; supporting natural conditions of child development, and including parents into child early care and observation. Data presented in the article shows that if using each of the mentioned above directions that are important for quality early care and interaction, positive dynamics is seen both on parents' and preterm infant's side. Designated programs can be widely implemented in neonatal intensive care units for children born before term, including those with extremely low body weight when they achieve clinical stabilization. The material presented in the article may be used as the scientific base for implementing in Russian Federation early care system both at the hospital level and, later, in the family environment. It also constitutes new directions for research of preterm babies and their parents.

Safety of Red Blood Cell Transfusion Using Small Central Lines in Neonates: An in vitro Non-inferiority Study.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the safety of transfusing red blood cell concentrates (RBCCs) through small [24 gauge (24G)] and extra-small [28 gauge [28G)] peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), according to guidelines of transfusion practice in Switzerland. Methods: We performed a non-inferiority in vitro study to assess the safety of transfusing RBCC for 4 h at a 4 ml/h speed through 24G silicone and 28G polyurethane PICC lines, compared with a peripheral 24G short catheter. The primary endpoint was hemolysis percentage. Secondary endpoints were catheter occlusion, inline pressure, and potassium and lactate values. Results: For the primary outcome, hemolysis values were not statistically different among catheter groups (0.06% variation, p = 0.95) or over time (2.75% variation, p = 0.72). The highest hemolysis values in both 24G and 28G PICCs were below the non-inferiority predefined margin. We did not observe catheter occlusion. Inline pressure varied between catheters but followed the same pattern of rapid increase followed by stabilization. Potassium and lactate measurements were not statistically different among tested catheters (0.139% variation, p = 0.98 for potassium and 0.062%, p = 0.96 for lactates). Conclusions: This study shows that RBCC transfusion performed in vitro through 24G silicone and 28G polyurethane PICC lines is feasible without detectable hemolysis or pressure concerns. Also, it adds that, concerning hemolysis, transfusion of RBCC in small and extra-small PICC lines is non-inferior to peripheral short 24G catheters. Clinical prospective assessment in preterm infants is needed to confirm these data further.

The predictive value of 'red flags' as milestones of psychomotor development of premature babies - preliminary study.

INTRODUCTION: Premature babies are a special group at risk of persistent brain damage caused by diseases, the most serious of which are cerebral palsy(CP), autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and mental retardation, among others. These conditions may occur concurrently, but appear more often as separate disease syndromes in the same group of at-risk children. Long-term observation of psychomotor development by an interdisciplinary medical team closely cooperating with parents is necessary. It is important to detect the risk of developing these diseases as soon as possible in all development spheres. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The research was conducted to demonstrate the prognostic value of 'red flags' of developmental milestones and the ability to detect early signs of risk of developing CP and ASD in extremely premature babies. In this preliminary study, 42 preterm babies, born after less than 32 weeks pregnancy participated. RESULTS: The occurrence of 'red flags'in the spheres: gross motor, fine motor and cognitive at 9 months was strongly associated with their presence at 24 months. The sensitivity and specificity were: gross motor - 0.91 (95% CI: 0.59, 1.00) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.79, 0.99); fine motor - 0.83 (95% CI 0.36-1.00) and 1.00 (95% CI: 0.90-1.00); cognitive - 1.00 (0.40, 1.00) and 0.97 (0.86, 1.00). Other spheres had lower sensitivity but high specificity. CONCLUSIONS: The conclusion is that the 'red flags'at the 9 months milestones already predict the normal or developmental delay of premature babies, and predict the risk of CP and ASD. Due to the availability and lack of the need for specialized and costly training, it is worth considering their use in everyday life medical practice.

Factors Associated With Benefit of Treatment of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Context: There is an ongoing debate on the optimal management of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm infants. Identifying subgroup of infants who would benefit from pharmacological treatment might help. Objective: To investigate the modulating effect of the differences in methodological quality, the rate of open-label treatment, and patient characteristics on relevant outcome measures in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Data Sources: Electronic database search between 1950 and May 2020. Study Selection: RCTs that assessed pharmacological treatment compared to placebo/no treatment. Data Extraction: Data is extracted following the PRISMA guidelines. Outcome measures were failure to ductal closure, surgical ligation, incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, sepsis, periventricular leukomalacia, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) grade ≥3, retinopathy of prematurity and mortality. Results: Forty-seven studies were eligible. The incidence of IVH grade ≥3 was lower in the treated infants compared to the placebo/no treatment (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64-0.94) and in the subgroups of infants with either a gestational age <28 weeks (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.61-0.98), a birth weight <1,000 g (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.61-0.97), or if untargeted treatment with indomethacin was started <24 h after birth (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.54-0.90). Limitations: Statistical heterogeneity caused by missing data and variable definitions of outcome parameters. Conclusions: Although the quality of evidence is low, this meta-analysis suggests that pharmacological treatment of PDA reduces severe IVH in extremely preterm, extremely low birth weight infants or if treatment with indomethacin was started <24 h after birth. No other beneficial effects of pharmacological treatment were found.

Therapeutic Modalities in the Treatment of Persistent Ductus Arteriosus in Premature Babies: Report of Two Cases.

BACKGROUND: Persistent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a vascular structure that connects the pulmonary artery and the descending aorta. It plays an important role in the fetal blood flow pattern. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper is to present two cases from Neonatology of Cantonal hospital in Bihac, with hemodynamically significant ductus, different "timing" of treatment and different therapeutic options. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The ductus closes functionally within the first 72 to 96 hours after the birth. Its anatomical closure follows in the next 14 days. If it remains open after the third month of life, it is treated as a congenital heart anomaly with a left-right shunt. Approximately 10% of all congenital heart defects are PDA with an incidence of 2-4 per 1000 live births. It has been clinically proven that PDA is present in 45% of premature babies with a birth weight of less than 1750 g and in about 80% of premature babies with a birth weight below 1200 g. As criteria for the application of drug therapy (in this case we use Paracetamol) for ductal closure, we took into account clinical parameters and echo parameters that indicated that it was a hemodynamically significant ductal shunt. Prerequisites for treatment were normal liver function confirmed by laboratory tests, normal platelet count, no intracranial hemorrhage, normal gastrointestinal function, normal coagulation parameters, normal renal function, calm parameters of inflammation. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of PDA in the early, asymptomatic phase, in premature babies, is made by early echocardiographic examination. The decision on treatment should be based on clinical and echocardiographic criteria. Paracetamol is an alternative in the treatment of this cardiac problem of premature infants and could be more effective if used in early, presymptomatic phase.

"Ciência da mãe": modos de cuidados clínicos com bebês prematuros à luz da teoria psicanalítica / "Science of the mother": modes of cinical care with premature babies in the light of the psychoanalytic theory / "Ciencia de la madre": modos de atención clínica con bebés prematuros a la luz de la teoría psicanalítica

O presente artigo tem como objetivo investigar os modos de cuidados clínicos com bebês prematuros internados em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (UTIN), à luz do referencial teórico da psicanálise, considerando os processos de instauração do sujeito e apontando para possíveis contribuições à atenção em saúde mental de bebês. A escuta psicanaliticamente orientada e as observações norteadas pelo uso do instrumento Indicadores de Risco para o Desenvolvimento Infantil (IRDI) compuseram as notas do diário de campo e permitiram a apresentação de vinhetas que ilustram a construção de possíveis dispositivos de trabalho clínico. Destaca-se a importância da sustentação de um espaço de escuta no qual se sobressaia o discurso familiar sobre o bebê, possibilitando a produção de narrativas singulares.

This article aims to investigate the clinical care modalities with premature newborn infants admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), in the light of the theoretical framework of psychoanalysis, considering the processes of instituting the subject and pointing to possible contributions to care in mental health of babies. The psychoanalytically oriented listening and the observations guided by the use of the Risk Indicators for Child Development (IRDI) instrument compose the notes of the field diary and allowed the presentation of vignettes that illustrate the construction of possible clinical work devices. It stands out the importance of supporting the space of listening in which the familiar discourse on the baby, making possible the production of singular narratives.

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo investigar los modos de atención clínica con bebés prematuros internados en una Unidad de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (UTIN), a la luz del referencial teórico del psicoanálisis, considerando los procesos de instauración del sujeto y apuntando para posibles contribuciones a la atención en salud mental de los bebés. La escucha psicoanalítica orientada y las observaciones orientadas por el uso del instrumento Indicadores de Riesgo para el Desarrollo Infantil (IRDI) compusieron las notas del diario de campo y permitieron la presentación de viñetas que ilustran la construcción de posibles dispositivos de trabajo clínico. Se destaca la importancia de la sustentación de un espacio de escucha en el que se sobresalía el discurso familiar sobre el bebé, posibilitando la producción de narrativas singulares.