Early Infancy Period Research Articles

Differences in Micronutrient Intakes of Exclusive and Partially Breastfed Indonesian Infants from Resource-Poor Households are Not Accompanied by Differences in Micronutrient Status, Morbidity, or Growth

BackgroundWhen maternal micronutrient intakes and statuses are compromised, reductions in micronutrient concentrations in neonatal stores and human milk may result in suboptimal micronutrient intakes, statuses, and functional outcomes of breastfed infants during the critical first 6-month period. ObjectivesWe compared the adequacy of micronutrient intakes and statuses at 2 and/or 5 months and morbidity and growth faltering at 2, 5, and 12 months in a cohort of exclusively breastfed (EBF) and partially breastfed (PBF) infants from low-resource Indonesian households. MethodsAt 2 and 5 months, the breastfeeding status and human milk intake of 212 infants were determined using the deuterium oxide dose-to-mother technique, and intakes were calculated from milk micronutrient concentrations and 3-d weighed food intakes. At 5 months, five infant micronutrient biomarkers, hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and α-1-acid-glycoprotein were measured. Infant morbidity, weight, and length were measured at 2, 5, and 12 months. Means, medians, or proportions were reported for each group and differences between groups were statistically determined. ResultsMedian intakes of iron, thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B-12 were higher in PBF than EBF infants at 5 months (all P values < 0.05), but intakes in all infants were below adequate intakes. At 5 months, anemia was <20% in both groups, although fewer PBF versus EBF infants had vitamin B-12 deficiency (11.5% vs. 28.6%, respectively; P = 0.011). The mean ± SD length-for-age z-scores for EBF versus PBF infants at 2 months were 0.7 ± 0.9 versus −0.5 ± 1.1, respectively (P = 0.158), declining to −1.4 ± 0.9 versus −1.1 ± 1.2, respectively, at 12 months (P = 0.059). Reported morbidity rates were generally low, with no evidence of a difference between infant groups (all P values > 0.126). ConclusionsIrrespective of exclusive or partial breastfeeding status, micronutrient intakes of infants were low, statuses were compromised, and growth faltering during the critical 6 months period of early infancy was present. The findings highlight the importance of improving maternal nutritional statuses and evaluating their impacts on infant outcomes.

Pulmonary venous Doppler patterns and midterm outcomes in fetuses with left-sided obstructive lesions and restrictive atrial septum.

To compare length of stay of the initial neonatal hospitalization and mortality across multiple stages of surgical palliation for infants with left-sided obstructive lesions and severely restrictive or intact atrial septum (I/RAS). Retrospective cohort study of patients prenatally diagnosed with left-sided obstructive lesions and I/RAS, defined by fetal pulmonary venous Dopplers. We identified 76 fetal patients with 59 live born intending to pursue intervention. Those with I/RAS had longer durations of mechanical ventilation (P = .031) but no difference in intensive care unit or total length of stay. Survival to discharge from neonatal hospitalization was 41.7% in the I/RAS group and 80.7% in the unrestrictive group (P = .001). There was a higher proportion of deaths between stage 1 and stage 2 in the I/RAS group - 5/9 (55.6%) vs 9/50 (18%) in the unrestrictive group (P = .027). Beyond stage 2 palliation there was trend toward a difference in overall mortality (66.7% in I/RAS vs 35.7% in unrestrictive, P = .05) but no statistically significant difference in transplant-free survival (33.3% in I/RAS vs 53.5% in unrestrictive, P = .11). The survival disadvantage conferred by prenatally diagnosed severe atrial septal restriction is most pronounced in the neonatal and early infancy period, with no detectable difference in late midterm transplant-free survival in our cohort.

Clinical Diagnostic Approach to Congenital Acyanotic Congenital Heart Disease in Infants and Children.

Congenital heart diseases have varied presentations depending on the age of presentation. Regression of neonatal pulmonary hypertension and the timing of establishment of left to right shunt determines the onset of symptoms. Pre-tricuspid shunts generally remain asymptomatic during the childhood while large post-tricuspid shunts present with heart failure in late neonatal or early infancy period. Admixture lesions have pathophysiology similar to large post tricuspid shunts with additional small right to left shunt causing mild systemic desaturation. Murmurs are prominent in valvular heart diseases. Careful clinical assessment of features of high pulmonary blood flow, presence of absence of systemic desaturation, status of second heart sound and murmur would help to arrive at a reasonable bedside diagnosis.

The features of neonatal seizures as predictors of drug-resistant epilepsy in children

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of the features of neonatal seizures for pharmacoresistant epilepsy in children. MethodThis is a retrospective study that involved all children diagnosed as having epilepsy who had neonatal seizures and who were hospitalized at the Neurology Department of the Mother and Child Healthcare Institute in Belgrade from January the 1st 2017 until December 31st 2017. The following parameters and their impact on the outcome were investigated: perinatal data, the characteristics of epileptic seizures in the neonatal period, and the response to anticonvulsant treatment. The presence of pharmacoresistance was observed as an outcome parameter. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to define predictors of drug-resistant epilepsy. ResultsThe study involved 55 children, 35 (63.6%) male and 20 (36.4%) female. The average age of the children at the end of the observation period was 5.17 years (min: 0.25, max: 17.75, iqr (interquartile range): 6.92). Pharmacoresistant epilepsy was found in 36 (65.5%) children. The most common type of epilepsy was focal, which affected 30 patients (54.5%), than generalized, which affected 15 patients (27.3%), and combined generalized and focal, which affected 8 patients (14.5%). At the end of the observation period, 28 patients (50.9%) had no seizures, while 14 (25.5%) had daily seizures. It was found that the pharmacoresistant neonatal seizures and metabolic–genetic disorders were predictive factors of the occurrence of pharmacoresistant epilepsy. ConclusionPatients prone to developing pharmacoresistant epilepsy might be identified as early as the neonatal and early infant period. High incidence of asphyxia cooccurring with established genetic–metabolic disease further emphasizes need for genetic testing in infants with neonatal seizures including in the presence of hypoxic–ischemic injury.

The cost and affordability of growing and feeding a baby in Nova Scotia.

This paper examines the affordability of a basic nutritious diet for low-income families in Nova Scotia over three developmental periods (pregnancy, perinatal, early infancy) using economic simulations that include food costing and secondary data. The cost of a nutritious food basket was determined from a random sample of grocery stores in Nova Scotia (n= 21), along with the cost of infant formula (n= 29) and prenatal vitamins and vitamin D drops (n= 15), from randomly selected pharmacies. The monthly funds remaining to purchase a basic nutritious diet were calculated for several household scenarios, after deducting essential living expenses from net incomes. Each scenario included either a pregnant woman or a breastfed or formula-fed infant at 3months, and either Income Assistance, Federal Maternity Benefits based on minimum wage employment, or a $15/h wage. Income Assistance and Federal Maternity Benefits, based on minimum wage, were inadequate to purchase a basic nutritious diet during pregnancy or in early infancy whether breastfeeding or formula feeding. All household scenarios faced significant potential monthly deficits if they were to purchase a basic nutritious diet. Minimum wage and income security programs are inadequate for the purchase of a basic nutritious diet throughout the prenatal, perinatal, and early infancy periods in Nova Scotia, emphasizing risk of food insecurity as a critical issue for young families facing income constraints. Adequate maternity protection is required to support access to food and nutrition essential for maternal and infant health.

P253 Patient after correction of Taussig-Bing anomaly with severe neoaortic regurgitation and after sudden cardiac arrest

Abstract The Taussig –Bing anomaly is a rare congenital heart malformation that was first described in 1949 by Helen B. Taussig and Richard J. Bing. It is characterized by the presence of a large subpulmonic ventricular septal defect (VSD) and, usually, side-by-side great vessels that arise entirely from the right ventricle. Unlike TGA with VSD, this anomaly is characterized by the presence of a bilateral conus and the absence of aortomitral continuity. Increased pulmonary blood flow leads to early onset of pulmonary vascular disease, hence repair in the early infancy period is recommended. VSD closure combined with arterial switch is currently the preferred procedure. Lecompte introduced a new surgical technique that includes extensive resection of the conal septum and direct reimplantation of the pulmonary trunk on the superior margin of the right ventricular infundibulotomy. We present case of 18-year-old male patient with Taussig-Bing anomaly after pulmonary artery binding and closure of ductus arteriosus when one year old and after anatomical Jatene correction with modified Lacompte procedure at the age of two years. The patient was admitted to our Department in October 2018 after episode of sudden cardiac arrest in the mechanism of ventricular fibrillation. Echocardiographic examination revealed preserved systolic function of both ventricles (LVEF 62%, TAPSE 25 mm, RV S’ 13cm/s) without contractility disturbances. The enlarged and hypertrophic left ventricle consists of the primary cavity connecting by VSD (size 39 mm) with a fragment of the right ventricle separated from the rest of the right ventricle by a patch with Gore-Tex acting as a ventricular septum - without any leakage features (Figure 1A and 1B). We noticed also enlarged left atrium, increased diameter of neoaorty bulb (50 mm), severe neoaortic regurgitation (AV max: 1,85 m/s, ERO-70, VC-8mm, PHT 327 ms) (Figure 1C), moderate mitral regurgitation (type I according Carpentier) (Figure1D). On 8.01.2019 a subcutaneous ICD Boston Scientific Emblem with a subcutaneous defibrillation electrode was implanted. In performed spiroergometry decreased peak oxygen consumption (2,24 ml/min/kg), the study was stopped because of fatique, assessed expiratory exchange ratio, and episode of nsVT. After decision of Heart Team the patient is qualified for surgical treatment of valve defects. Abstract P253 Figure 1

PREGNANCY INDUCED HYPERTENSION AND NEONATAL GROWTH

Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), especially preeclampsia, is a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The impact of PIH on birth outcomes has not been extensively studied. PIH has been confirmed to increase significantly the risk of low birth weight by both increasing preterm birth as well as reducing fetal growth. Low birth weight or IUGR babies have been associated with the occurrence of several chronic diseases in later life. However, to date, there have been few studies on the effects of PIH on infant growth and neonatal wellbeing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fetal growth and wellbeing of newborns born of mothers with confirmed pregnancy induced hypertension.Material and methods: This was prospective opservational study during the period of the last year, 1st of July 2018 up to the end of June 2019 conducted at the University Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics in Skopje. As pregnancy induced hypertension is defined the condition of blood pressure equal to or greater than 130/90 mmHg on more than two occasions greater than six hours apart without proteinuria after 21 weeks of gestation. All other more severe conditions are defined as pre-eclampsia or eclampsia. As outcome was considered the birth weight, gestational age and white blood cells count. IUGR was defined as birth weight below the tenth percentile of expected weight for gestational age. Also maternal age and BMI were considered as conjoined risk factor for the birth weight. Results: In this study, 4726 newborns were born at the University Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, and for analysis were considered 4273 newborns who were late preterm (35 and 36 gestational weeks) or term newborns. Two groups were evaluated: control group of 200 consecutively born newborns (late preterm and term) of healthy mothers and 100 newborns (late preterm and term) consecutively born of mothers with confirmed diagnosis of PIH, which constituted the study group. Within the control group, the proportion of Small for Gestational Age-SGA was 6,3%, and in the group of mothers with PIH was 9,5% (p&lt;0,05). The maternal mean age of the hypertensive mothers was (32.8±5.0) years while that of normotensive mothers was (26.6±3.7) years, and there was not statistical significance (p&gt;0.05). The Body Mass Index was higher in hypertensive mothers, compared to the healthy mothers (31,3±2.02 vs. 27.8±2.8). The mean gestational age of the study group was (35.8±1.8) weeks compared to that in control group (37.4±1.2) weeks. The number of White Blood Cells (WBC) count in newborns of hypertensive mothers was 21.4±5.3x109/L compared with the control group, 18.5±3.12x109/L (p=0.005). Neonatal thrombocytopenia was found in 32% of neonates of preeclamptic mothers while it's found only in 9.5% of neonates in control group p&lt;0,002. Discussion: The limitation of this study was the lack of data about maternal smoking, life style, etc. There is limited number of studies examining the correlation between fetal growth and PIH, and every information is of great value. The fact is that this condition can progress in more severe degree of hypertension and deleterious effects on the mother itself and on her child, if not treated on time. Conclusion: A change in infant growth of the IUGR baby itself (e.g. catch-up growth) such as in the critical early infant period may also have long-term effects on health later in life, and this change of postpartum growth may be influenced by PIH. Therefore, it is important to study postpartum infant growth patterns of babies born to mothers with PIH, and to determine if there are differences in infant growth between babies with and those without IUGR. And, the most important action is to monitor and treat pregnancy induced hypertension and prevent more severe condition of pre-eclampsia.

Unraveling the Serum Metabolomic Profile of Post-partum Depression.

Post-partum depression (PPD) is a severe psychiatric disorder affecting ∼15% of young mothers. Early life stressful conditions in periconceptual, fetal and early infant periods or exposure to maternal psychiatric disorders, have been linked to adverse childhood outcomes interfering with physiological, cognitive and emotional development. The molecular mechanisms of PPD are not yet fully understood. Unraveling the molecular underpinnings of PPD will allow timely detection and establishment of effective therapeutic approaches. To investigate the underlying molecular correlates of PPD in peripheral material, we compared the serum metabolomes of an in detail characterized group of mothers suffering from PPD and a control group of mothers, all from Heraklion, Crete in Greece. Serum samples were analyzed by a mass spectrometry platform for targeted metabolomics, based on selected reaction monitoring (SRM), which measures the levels of up to 300 metabolites. In the PPD group, we observed increased levels of glutathione-disulfide, adenylosuccinate, and ATP, which associate with oxidative stress, nucleotide biosynthesis and energy production pathways. We also followed up the metabolomic findings in a validation cohort of PPD mothers and controls. To the very best of our knowledge, this is the first metabolomic serum analysis in PPD. Our data show that molecular changes related to PPD are detectable in peripheral material, thus paving the way for additional studies in order to shed light on the molecular correlates of PPD.

A Cytomegalovirus Infection Case Mimicking Total Parenteral Nutrition Associated Cholestasis

Title : A case of cytomegalovirus infection mimicking total parenteral nutrition associated cholestasis.\n\nCongenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the most common infection that passes trough transplacentally in the early infancy period and is the most common infectious cause of the nonhereditary sensorineural hearing loss. We know that most of these cases were asymptomatic in the neonatal period. Especially among the extremely low birth weight infants, CMV prevalence is not known. We present a 29 weeks old 460 gr extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infant with congenital CMV infection mimicking total parenteral nutrition (TPN) associated cholestasis. Usually, when we see the cholestasis in the extremely low birth weight infant feeding with long time TPN, we think that it is associated with TPN. Direct hyperbilirubinemia and cholestasis are the common situations in the newborn period. Especially this is considered to be associated with sepsis, TPN, galactosemia, inborn errors of metabolism and other causes.CMV- associated cholestasis should be kept in mind, especially in cases of premature infants with cholestasis and extremely low birth weight infants have been fed for a long time TPN.

The role of an ophthalmologist in the Alström syndrome diagnosis

Introduction. The Alstr?m syndrome (AS) is an extremely rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder, affecting fewer than 1: 1,000,000 people globally. It is a single gene disorder due to the mutation of ALMS1 on chromosome 2 (2p13). The AS affects multiple organs and systems. Approximately 800 affected individuals have been identified worldwide so far. Some cases of the AS may go unrecognized for years as many of the clinical features develop over a longer period of time. As the nystagmus and retinitis pigmentosa are the most consistent findings, usually the first visible sign and present at the early infant period, the main aim of this article is to emphasize the importance of the ophthalmologist in establishing an adequate diagnosis of this rare syndrome. Case report. This article describes a Serbian patient with the Alstr?m syndrome, whose diagnosis was genetically confirmed using the whole exome sequencing. Our patient was a 7-year-old obese male with symptoms of progressive visual impairment, photophobia and nystagmus diagnosed in early childhood. On admission, the bilateral visual acuity was poor, RE 0.06, LE 0.01, the intraocular pressure within range. The funduscopy showed central retinal pigmentation, thus suggesting cone-rod retinal dystrophy with ?bull?s eye maculopathy?. The initial laboratory work at the time of the consultation revealed the elevated triglycerides levels and hyperinsulinemia, increased transaminases and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase serum activity, whereas the glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels were normal. The bilirubin test results were normal. Overall, the clinical manifestations were absent. The patient?s cardiac function was normal and the echocardiography did not indicate any abnormalities at the time. His sensorineural hearing was normal as well. A molecular genetic analysis was performed. Two composite heterozygous mutations were discovered within the ALMS1 gene sequence. In addition to the clinical presentation, the mutation detection confirmed the initial diagnosis of the AS. Conclusion. The Alstr?m syndrome should be kept in mind in case of an obese child with photophobia, nystagmus and visual impairment present from early childhood. Fundus examination by an ophthalmologist may significantly help to establish the diagnosis of this rare genetic syndrome.

Prosthodontic management of children with ectodermal dysplasia: A literature review

Introduction Ectodermal dysplasia (ED) is a large group of heterogeneous heritable conditions characterized by congenital defects of two or more ectodermal structures and their appendages. The diagnosis of ED in early infancy period may be difficult in that sparse hair and absent teeth are normal findings at this stage of development. However, characteristic deformities of the skull including the square aspect of the forehead; frontal bossing; sunken cheeks; hyperpigmentation of the periorbital skin; prominent supraorbital ridges; saddle nose; and hypoplastic-appearing alaque nasi helps in diagnosing ED cases. In addition to its other symptoms, the dental characteristics of this syndrome include number anomalies such as anodontia or severe hypodontia (with or without a cleft lip and palate) that is associated with lack of alveolar ridge development and reduced vertical dimension. Clinically there are two major types of ED namely hidrotic and anhidrotic (hypohidrotic form). The hypohidrotic form is most common type with an incidence estimated to be 1–7 per 10,000 live births. The goals of dental treatment for individuals affected by the ED syndromes are to provide an age-appropriate dentition that optimizes function, facial development, speech and esthetics. Dental management of children with ectodermal dysplasia includes removable, fixed and implant prosthesis. Materials and Method A computerized search of the literature was done by searching the web based databases PubMed, Up To Date and the University of Texas Health Science Center for Critically Appraised Topics (CATS) library for key words including: Ectodermal Dysplasia, Prosthodontic Management of Ectodermal Dysplasia, Oral Manifestations of Ectodermal Dysplasia and Fixed and Removable Prosthodontic Management of Ectodermal Dysplasia. Titles and abstracts of the studies were evaluated according to relevance after obtaining the full text articles. The search ended in January 2017. The inclusion criteria were: studies that evaluated different modalities of treatment of ectodermal dysplasia, studies that addressed the effects of ectodermal dysplasia on oral health, reviews that addressed the clinical consequences of ectodermal dysplasia, case reports and case series of ectodermal dysplasia. Exclusion criteria: studies that were directed or focused to other aspects of ectodermal dysplasia other than oral health. Results These patients often need a multidisciplinary approach to treatment planning and dental treatment to regain esthetics and function of the stomatognathic system. Considering the age, different rehabilitation options can be considered, from classic conventional solutions such as complete denture, removable partial denture, overdentures and to the most up to date implant supported prosthetics. Conclusion Recall every 6 months with possible relining, rebasing or making a new denture. Following growth completion and occlusion stabilization an implant retained removable or fixed denture can be used to replace the missing teeth permanently. Moreover, traditional removable denture can be an option for replacing the missing teeth. However, implants provide the best long term results and prognosis.

Content to share with expectant fathers: Views of professionals focused on father involvement

ObjectiveTo examine whether there is a consensus on what guidance to share with expectant fathers from the prenatal through early infancy period among a multidisciplinary group of professionals with expertise on father involvement. DesignConsensus-building approach using mixed methods involving two rounds of data collection. In Round 1, participants were requested to individually generate content as text messages to share with expectant fathers that a father should know or do for his infant, his partner, and himself starting prenatally and through early infancy. A content analysis of Round 1 data was conducted to identify domain content to share with fathers. During Round 2, experts were asked to rate their perceived level of importance of the content generated in Round 1. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, means, and standard deviations were calculated for Round 2. SettingElectronic survey. ParticipantsNine multidisciplinary professionals with expertise on father involvement, representing psychology, pediatrics, nursing/midwifery, and sociology. Measurements and findingsDuring Round 1, participants individually generated 302 message content items across domains in the following contexts: plan for/participate in birth (n = 71); his infant (n = 95); his partner (n = 107); and himself (n = 38). During Round 2, participants achieved greatest consensus in more content items in two contexts: infant support and partner support. For infant support, content domains that participants perceived it important to share with for fathers included: knowledge about signs of infant illness, feeding, sleep patterns, and impact of second hand smoke/drug use; training on providing newborn care; and taking action including participating in infant care, providing verbal stimulation, engaging in age-appropriate play and physical contact, supporting safe sleep, and making/attending doctor appointments. For partner support, content domains that participants perceived it important to share with fathers included: communicating with partners with regular check-ins, and about parenting styles and shared responsibilities, signs/symptoms of maternal depression, and hopes/dreams for infant; and taking actions to support partner's physical and emotional health and breastfeeding. Although less content was generated in the other two contexts - plan for/participate in birth and father support - participants achieved consensus on some content in these domains as being important to share with fathers. Key conclusionsDespite lack of professional guidelines for expectant fathers, experts generally agreed on the content that should be shared with expectant fathers from pregnancy through early infancy, especially in the domains of infant support and partner support. Implications for practiceThis study can assist clinicians and practitioners on guidance to share with expectant fathers during their partner's pregnancy and the early postnatal period. Dissemination of such guidance to fathers can assist in benefiting all members of the family.

Variables determining the success of ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction of intussusception in infants: a tertiary center experience

Background: Intussusception represents one of the most common urgent surgical admissions during early infancy and childhood period. It’s a form of intestinal obstruction which is manifested by colicky abdominal pain, red current jelly stool and abdominal mass. Abdominal Ultrasound is the method of choice for diagnosis. Treatment of intussusception ranged from simple non operative reduction either by pneumatic or hydrostatic enema to surgical exploration. There multiple variables that may affect the result of of non operative management.Aim: We tried to study them to know whom patient would pass without surgery.Patients and methods: Two hundred patients diagnosed with intussusceptions included in this study. All of them received ultra sound guided hydrostatic reduction using warm saline. The maximum number of attempts of reduction was three times. We used intrvenous sedation in irritable infants.Results: 2 hundred cases with intussusception were treated in this study. One hundred forty were reduced (group A) and 60 cases (group B) required surgical exploration. The mean body weight in group A was 7.3 Kg while in group B 9.3Kg. seventy five cases from both groups were operated.Conclusion: Several factors affect the result of hydrostatic reduction as total leukocytic count, CRP and duration of symptoms. In addition the size of the mass and the presence or absence of free peritoneal fluid affects the non operative management.Keywords: hydrostatic, intussusception, ultrasound

Neonatal and early infancy burns in the only referral Burn center in Northeast of Iran: Report of a decade

Background: Burn in the neonatal and early infancy period ( Methods: In a cross-sectional study, we collected information about neonatal and early infancy burn injuries from the hospital information system in a 10-year period starting from January 1, 2007, in Imam Reza Hospital in the northeast of Iran. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 16. Results: There were 3 neonatal and 47 early infancy burn injuries (0.7% of all burn injury admissions). All injuries occurred at home. The mean age was 122.3 ± 51.7 days and 31 (62%) were males. The mean percentage of burn total body surface area (TBSA) was 19.21 ± 11.44 (range = 3–55). Mean of hospital stay was 11.9 ± 7.5 days. The fatality rate was 2%. The most common mechanisms of burn injury were scald (41, 82%) and flame (5, 10%). The most common hot liquid containers were kettle (21, 42%) and samovar (8, 16%). Explosion (28.50 ± 2.12) had caused the longest hospital stay (P = 0.01). Patients burnt by hot liquid splashed from samovar had a more burnt TBSA (30.13 ± 10.71) (P = 0.04). Conclusions: Hot beverages and food preparation simultaneous with child care are dangerous conditions which can cause burn injury in infants and neonates. The results of this study set a valuable background for running some prevention programs to prevent neonates and infants from burn injury.

Retrospective Analysis of Preterm Neonates with Congenital Heart Defects Delivered by Cesarean Section: Unfavourable Outcomes a Necessity for Fetal Cardiology Education During Obstetrical Training?

Abstract Introduction: Congenital heart defects are the most frequent reason for deaths during the neonatal and early infancy periods. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze singleton pregnancy outcomes of premature neonates with congenital cardiac defects delivered by Cesarean section. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 10,800 fetuses evaluated in our referral fetal cardiac center between 2010 and 2016. A group of 58 singleton pregnancies was selected with the following criteria: fetal heart defect, Cesarean section (C-section), and gestation of 37 weeks or less. Exclusion criteria included labor outside of our hospital and multiple pregnancy. Results: Isolated heart defects constituted 74,1% (43 cases) of the analysed data set. The majority of newborns were delivered at 36 weeks of gestation (43,1%), with an average of 33,6 weeks. In one case (1,7%), C-section took place at 22nd week. Birth weight of newborns &lt; 2500g constituted 51,7% (30 cases). Neonatal deaths occurred in 60,3% (35 cases). Conclusions: Preterm neonates with congenital heart defect, delivered by C-section in our reference centre, during 2010 to 2016, had generally poor outcomes and high mortality rate. The average hospital stay of surviving neonates was approximately two months. An improvement of knowledge about prenatal cardiology is necessary in obstetrician management with fetuses with congenital heart diseases.

Evaluation of the endocrine-disrupting effects of homosalate (HMS) and 2-ethylhexyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate (OD-PABA) in rat pups during the prenatal, lactation, and early postnatal periods.

Homosalate (HMS) and 2-ethylhexyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate (OD-PABA) are ultraviolet filters. We aimed to investigate the effects of dermal exposure to HMS and OD-PABA during the prenatal, lactation, and early infancy periods on pubertal development and thyroid function in male and female rats. The thyroid glands, uteri, testes, prostate glands, and seminal vesicles were excised and weighed, the reproductive organs were analyzed histologically, and the serum hormone levels were measured. In the prenatal period, the thyroxine (T4) levels increased in the female rats in the exposed groups ( p < 0.05); the thyroid weights, reproductive organ weights, and gonadal hormone levels were not altered. In males, the testosterone levels decreased ( p < 0.05), but the thyroid weights, T4 levels, prostate, and testis weights were not changed. In the lactation period, the weights of the thyroid glands increased in the exposed female groups ( p < 0.05), but the T4, gonadal hormone levels, and reproductive organ weights were not changed. In the males, the thyroid gland weights, T4 levels, reproductive organ weights, and gonadal hormone levels were not changed. During infancy, the thyroid gland weights increased in the female rats in the exposed groups ( p < 0.05), but the T4 levels, gonadal hormone levels, and reproductive organ weights were not affected. In the male rats in the exposed groups, the T4 levels were increased ( p < 0.05), but the thyroid and reproductive organ weights, gonadal hormone levels were not affected. Organ histopathology was not affected in all groups. HMS and OD-PABA do not have endocrine disruptor effects on thyroid function and the pubertal development of female and male rats.

Promoting Early Child Development With Interventions in Health and Nutrition: A Systematic Review

Although effective health and nutrition interventions for reducing child mortality and morbidity exist, direct evidence of effects on cognitive, motor, and psychosocial development is lacking. To review existing evidence for health and nutrition interventions affecting direct measures of (and pathways to) early child development. Reviews and recent overviews of interventions across the continuum of care and component studies. We selected systematic reviews detailing the effectiveness of health or nutrition interventions that have plausible links to child development and/or contain direct measures of cognitive, motor, and psychosocial development. A team of reviewers independently extracted data and assessed their quality. Sixty systematic reviews contained the outcomes of interest. Various interventions reduced morbidity and improved child growth, but few had direct measures of child development. Of particular benefit were food and micronutrient supplementation for mothers to reduce the risk of small for gestational age and iodine deficiency, strategies to reduce iron deficiency anemia in infancy, and early neonatal care (appropriate resuscitation, delayed cord clamping, and Kangaroo Mother Care). Neuroprotective interventions for imminent preterm birth showed the largest effect sizes (antenatal corticosteroids for developmental delay: risk ratio 0.49, 95% confidence interval 0.24 to 1.00; magnesium sulfate for gross motor dysfunction: risk ratio 0.61, 95% confidence interval 0.44 to 0.85). Given the focus on high-quality studies captured in leading systematic reviews, only effects reported within studies included in systematic reviews were captured. These findings should guide the prioritization and scale-up of interventions within critical periods of early infancy and childhood, and encourage research into their implementation at scale.

Hygiene Hypothesis: What Is the Current Thinking?

Our aim was to discuss the hygiene hypothesis and current thinking about it. Hygiene hypothesis suggests that an underlying reason for the recent prominent rise in allergic diseases may be linked with the diminution of the incidence of early childhood infections, which can be transmitted by means of contact with older siblings. Hygiene hypothesis suggests that contact with microbes in the environment in early life through pets, unpasteurized food, and nonsterilized water may protect from atopic diseases. Exposure to microbial pathogens and animals in infancy prevents atopy by Th1-like cytokine responses or by modifying Th2-like immune responses. Chronic infection and inflammation may protect against atopic disease. Alteration of exposure to microorganisms and access to clean water as well as issues related with food, sanitation, medical and obstetric practices, and urban lifestyle may have significant roles. Decreased exposure to bacteria in the early infancy period may shift the immune system to a predominantly Th2 state which is detected in atopic cases. Environmental exposure may lead to epigenetic changes which causes a shift of immune reactions against microorganisms. The hygiene hypothesis implies that modern living conditions can be responsible for the rise in the incidences of allergic disease and asthma. Protective effect of food-borne microbes on allergic diseases is another remarkable issue.

Variables determining the success of ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction of intussusception in infants

Background: Intussusception represents one of the most common urgent surgical admissions during early infancy and childhood period. It’s a form of intestinal obstruction which is manifested by colicky abdominal pain, red current jelly stool and abdominal mass. Abdominal Ultrasound is the method of choice for diagnosis. Treatment of intussusception ranged from simple non operative reduction either by pneumatic or hydrostatic enema to surgical exploration. There multiple variables that may affect the result of of non operative management. Aim: We tried to study them to know whom patient would pass without surgery. Patients and methods: Two hundred patients diagnosed with intussusceptions included in this study. All of them received ultra sound guided hydrostatic reduction using warm saline. The maximum number of attempts of reduction was three times. We used intrvenous sedation in irritable infants. Results: 2 hundred cases with intussusception were treated in this study. One hundred forty were reduced (group A) and 60 cases (group B) required surgical exploration. The mean body weight in group A was 7.3 Kg while in group B 9.3Kg. seventy five cases from both groups were operated. Conclusion: Several factors affect the result of hydrostatic reduction as total leukocytic count, CRP and duration of symptoms. In addition the size of the mass and the presence or absence of free peritoneal fluid affects the non operative management. Keywords: hydrostatic, intussusception, ultrasound

Vitamin D levels in newborns and association with neonatal hypocalcemia

Objective: Vitamin D has many important functions in our body. Especially in intrauterine and early infancy periods, Vitamin D plays a major role in bone development, growth, and the maturation of tissues such as lung and brain. Fetus is dependent on the mother in terms of Vitamin D and maternal Vitamin D deficiency results in a Vitamin D deficient newborn. The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of Vitamin D in newborns and to investigate the association between Vitamin D status of the baby and neonatal hypocalcemia.Method: Vitamin D, calcium, and parathyroid hormone levels of 750 infants, born between 1 January 2014 and 30 June 2015 and followed in Ondokuz Mayıs University Neonatal Intensive Care Unit were analyzed retrospectively. Blood levels of Vitamin D were checked within 3 days after birth. A 25(OH)D3 level of <10 ng/ml indicated severe, levels between 10 and 20 ng/ml, which indicated moderate and levels between 20 and 30 ng/ml indicated mild Vitamin D deficiency. Serum calcium levels below 8 mg/dl in term infants and below 7 mg/dl in preterm infants were accepted as hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia that developed within the first week after birth was defined as early, while hypocalcemia after one week were defined as late hypocalcemia.Results: A total of 44% of the infants in the study were girls, while 56% were boys; 38% were term and 62% were preterm. Average 25(OH)D3 level of all infants was 11.4 ± 10.2 (0–153) ng/ml. Only 30 (4%) infants had normal (>30 ng/ml) 25(OH)D3 levels; 68 (9%) had mild, 234 (31%) had moderate and 418 (56%) had severe vitamin D deficiency. No correlation was found between Vitamin D levels and gender, mother’s age, gestational week or birth weight. In 79 (17.2%) preterms, neonatal hypocalcemia was observed. Vitamin D levels of the premature infants who had early neonatal hypocalcemia were statistically significantly lower when compared with those who did not have early neonatal hypocalcemia (p = .02). No significant difference was found between the Vitamin D levels of the term infants who had early neonatal hypocalcemia and those who did not (p= .29). No significant difference was found between the Vitamin D levels of the infants who had late neonatal hypocalcemia and those who did not (in preterm p = .27; in term p = .29).Conclusions: Although lack of Vitamin D is preventable and curable, it is an important health problem for newborns in Turkey. In our study, 56% of the infants were found to have severe lack of Vitamin D and lack of Vitamin D was found to be associated with early neonatal hypocalcemia in preterm newborns. However, long-term effects of lack of Vitamin D in infancy are not fully known. In order to be able to prevent neonatal Vitamin D deficiency, 1200 IU/day vitamin D was supplemented to mothers from the 12th gestational week to 6th month of the birth, which was put into effect by the Ministry of Health in 2011, and should be applied by all health workers.