Neonatal Monitoring Research Articles

Emerging innovations in neonatal monitoring: a comprehensive review of progress and potential for non-contact technologies

Continuous monitoring of high-risk neonates is essential for the timely management of medical conditions. However, the current reliance on wearable or contact sensor technologies for vital sign monitoring often leads to complications including discomfort, skin damage, and infections which can impede medical management, nursing care, and parental bonding. Moreover, the dependence on multiple devices is problematic since they are not interconnected or time-synchronized, use a variety of different wires and probes/sensors, and are designed based on adult specifications. Therefore, there is an urgent unmet need to enable development of wireless, non- or minimal-contact, and non-adhesive technologies capable of integrating multiple signals into a single platform, specifically designed for neonates. This paper summarizes the limitations of existing wearable devices for neonates, discusses advancements in non-contact sensor technologies, and proposes directions for future research and development.

Analysis of electrode performance on amplitude integrated electroencephalography in neonates: evaluation of a new electrode aCUP-E vs. liquid gel electrodes.

Neonatologists and clinical neurophysiologists face challenges with the current electrodes used for long-duration amplitude-integrated electroencephalography (aEEG) in neonatal intensive care units (NICU), limiting the capacity to diagnose brain damage. The objectives of this study were to develop methods for comparing the performance of different electrodes to be used in aEEG. The comparison was done between a newly designed neonate-specific electrode, aCUP-E, with commercial liquid gel electrodes used in amplitude-integrated electroencephalography (aEEG). The comparison included impedance stability, electrode survival, recording quality, usability, and satisfaction of NICU staff. aEEG recordings with bipolar montage was used, with one hemisphere fitted with commercial electrodes and the other with aCUP-E electrodes, alternated among subjects. Continuous impedance and raw EEG data were collected over a minimum of 24 h, and signal processing was performed using Python and MATLAB. aCUP-E electrodes demonstrated superior performance, including: Increased impedance stability and electrode survival, enhanced recording quality with fewer artifacts, high correlation in signal capture between electrodes during optimal brain activity segments, higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) across varying impedance levels, greater staff satisfaction and ease of use. Moreover, Kaplan-Meier curves indicated a higher survival rate for aCUP-E electrodes over 24 h compared to commercial electrodes. Impedance variability analysis showed statistically significant stability improvements for aCUP-E. aCUP-E electrodes outperform commercial liquid gel electrodes in impedance stability, electrode survival, and recording quality. These results suggest that aCUP-E electrodes could significantly enhance aEEG utilization in diagnosing and treating neonatal brain conditions in NICUs. Future improvements to the aCUP-E electrode may further reduce artifacts and increase electrode longevity, potentially leading to a significant improvement in neonatal brain monitoring by means of aEEG.

Continuous glucose monitoring in neonates: challenges and opportunities.

Continuous glucose monitoring in neonates: challenges and opportunities.

An IoT-based contactless neonatal respiratory monitoring system for neonatal care assistance in postpartum center

According to previous studies, one of the major causes of 20 % to 25 % of neonatal deaths is respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Early identification, progressive monitoring, and treatment and/or management of neonatal RDS can substantially increase the rate of survival in neonates. However, global research indicates frequent shortages and burnout among nursing staff, especially in postpartum units, contributing to the difficulty in early identification of RDS in neonates. Clinicians currently use breathing sounds and frequency as key criteria in the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) for identifying and treating RDS. In practice, the monitoring of respiratory signal abnormalities relies on sensor patches, which frequently detach from the neonates’ slippery skin, leading to potential skin injuries and unstable signal reception. This paper presents an Internet of Things (IoT)-based contactless neonatal respiratory monitoring system that integrates computer vision (CV), beamforming microphone array (BFMA), and millimeter Wave (mmWave) radar, all connected to a cloud platform. Clinical trials revealed that CV-based neonatal feature identification achieved over 96 % accuracy within 40 cm to 120 cm. The neonatal breathing sound strengthening, utilized CV and BFMA, achieved an average sound-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 5.07 dB, and CV with mmWave radar reduced chest displacement signal error from 0.66 to 0.26 BPM. Additionally, survey results showed that doctors and clinical personnel were satisfied with the system's functionality and usability. This demonstrates the system's ability to assist in monitoring respiratory signals of swaddled neonates and in the early identification of neonatal RDS, with further applications in neonatal care at postpartum centers.

Optimization of manual ventilation quality using respiratory function monitoring in neonates: A two-phase intervention trial

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was the evaluation of the impact of a respiratory function monitor (RFM, Neo100, Monivent AB, Gothenburg, Sweden) on the quality of ventilation in neonates. MethodsThis single-center two-phase intervention study was conducted at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the delivery room of the Medical University of Vienna. Patients with clinical need for positive pressure ventilation were included in either of two consecutive study phases: (i) patients were ventilated with a hidden RFM (control) or (ii) visible RFM (intervention) during manual positive pressure ventilations. The duration of each phase was approximately six months. The primary outcome was the percentage of ventilations within a tidal volume range of 4–8 ml/kg (pVTe). ResultsA total of 90 patients (GA 22–66 weeks) were included. The primary outcome was significantly higher in the intervention group with a visible RFM (53.7%, SD 22.6) than in the control group without the monitor (37.3%, SD 20.5); (p < 0.001, mean difference [i.e., change in percentage points]: 16.95% CI: 7.4–35). In terms of secondary outcomes, excessive tidal volumes (>8ml/kg), potentially associated with an increased risk of brain injury, could be significantly reduced when a RFM was visible during ventilation (10.9% [IQR 26.4] vs. 29.5% [IQR 38.1]; p = 0.004). Furthermore, mask leakage could be significantly decreased (37.3% [SD 22.7] vs. 52.7% [SD 23.0]; p = 0.002). ConclusionOur results suggest that the clinical application of a RFM for manual ventilation of preterm and term infants leads to a significant improvement in ventilation parameters.

Hydroelectrolytic and nutritional needs of infants with epidermolysis bullosa during the first month of life.

Dehydration and malnutrition are common in infants with severe epidermolysis bullosa (EB), but their nutritional needs have been poorly studied. The principal aim was to assess the nutritional status, fluid and electrolyte balance, and nutritional intake of newborns with EB during the first month of life and estimate their needs during this period. This was a retrospective study over an eight-year period. Inclusion criteria were neonates with confirmed EB admitted to our neonatal referral unit during the first month of life. Exclusion criteria were hospitalisations <7 days. Twenty-seven patients with EB (mean [min-max] gestational age = 39 weeks [33;41]; birth weight = 2986g [1982; 4150]), were included. Four patients (15%) had hyponatraemia <135mmol/L at admission (age at admission = 4.8 days +/- 2.6 [2; 7]). Sixteen patients (59%) had a sodium deficit -requiring fluid and sodium intake well above recommendations from the World Health Organisation (WHO). The risk of hyponatraemia was significantly higher in infants with the greatest body surface area affected but did not appear to be related to EB subtype. Caloric and protein intake were well above the WHO's recommendations, preventing acquired growth restriction. The rate of sodium deficit in neonates with EB is high and related to the significance of skin exudate. The administration of nutrient intake greater than that recommended helps to prevent acquired growth restriction. We propose recommendations for nutritional intake and monitoring in neonates with EB in the first month of life.

Safety assessment of sildenafil use in neonates: a real-world data analysis based on the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS)

ABSTRACT Background The safety of neonatal sildenafil use remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate adverse events (AEs) associated with sildenafil use in neonates. Research design and methods We collected data on AEs associated with sildenafil use in neonates from the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database, spanning from its inception of the database in 2004 to 2023. Disproportionality measures were employed to analyze the correlation between AEs and sildenafil. Results Sildenafil was identified as the primary suspect drug in 75 AE reports, involving 214 AEs. Three system organ classes, namely, eye disorders, hepatobiliary disorders, and vascular disorders were associated with sildenafil use. Six preferred terms, namely, flushing, retinopathy of prematurity, hyperbilirubinemia, pulmonary hemorrhage, hypotension, and diarrhea were associated with sildenafil use. Notably, hyperbilirubinemia and pulmonary hemorrhage were previously unreported AEs associated with sildenafil use. Conclusion The results highlight the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the safety of neonatal sildenafil use and provide vital support for risk monitoring and identification in neonates receiving sildenafil. Additionally, the study underscores the need for continuous safety surveillance in neonates treated with sildenafil and suggests further exploration of the precise causal relationships between AEs and sildenafil.

A recommendation for the use of electrical biosensing technology in neonatology.

Non-invasive cardiac output monitoring, via electrical biosensing technology (EBT), provides continuous, multi-parameter hemodynamic variable monitoring which may allow for timely identification of hemodynamic instability in some neonates, providing an opportunity for early intervention that may improve neonatal outcomes. EBT encompasses thoracic (TEBT) and whole body (WBEBT) methods. Despite the lack of relative accuracy of these technologies, as compared to transthoracic echocardiography, the use of these technologies in neonatology, both in the research and clinical arena, have increased dramatically over the last 30 years. The European Society of Pediatric Research Special Interest Group in Non-Invasive Cardiac Output Monitoring, a group of experienced neonatologists in the field of EBT, deemed it appropriate to provide recommendations for the use of TEBT and WBEBT in the field of neonatology. Although TEBT is not an accurate determinant of cardiac output or stroke volume, it may be useful for monitoring longitudinal changes of hemodynamic parameters. Few recommendations can be made for the use of TEBT in common neonatal clinical conditions. It is recommended not to use WBEBT to monitor cardiac output. The differences in technologies, study methodologies and data reporting should be addressed in ongoing research prior to introducing EBT into routine practice. IMPACT STATEMENT: TEBT is not recommended as an accurate determinant of cardiac output (CO) (or stroke volume (SV)). TEBT may be useful for monitoring longitudinal changes from baseline of hemodynamic parameters on an individual patient basis. TEBT-derived thoracic fluid content (TFC) longitudinal changes from baseline may be useful in monitoring progress in respiratory disorders and circulatory conditions affecting intrathoracic fluid volume. Currently there is insufficient evidence to make any recommendations regarding the use of WBEBT for CO monitoring in neonates. Further research is required in all areas prior to the implementation of these monitors into routine clinical practice.

Non-Invasive Electrical Cardiometry versus Echocardiography for Assessment of Patent Ductus Arteriosus Hemodynamic Response to Medical Treatment in Preterm Neonates

Abstract Background Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) poses a diagnostic and a therapeutic dilemma for neonatologists. Although echocardiography (Echo) has been the gold standard diagnostic tool for PDA, it requires a trained cardiologist or neonatologist to perform and it is usually not available around the clock. Echo provides also a single rather than continuous assessment of the sick neonates, whose hemodynamic status changes quickly. Electrocardiometry (EC) is a new device for continuous hemodynamic monitoring of neonates. Aim of the Work To evaluate the accuracy and precision of EC in comparison to ECHO in assessment of PDA response to treatment in preterm neonates. Patients and Methods This diagnostic accuracy study was conducted in the neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of Children’s Hospital of Ain Shams University, Cairo, between (1/5/2021 and 31/3/2022). The study was approved by the ethical committee of Ain Shams University. Preterm neonates&amp;lt;35weeks gestational age admitted during the study period were eligible for enrollment. Neonates with hemodynamically non-significant PDA and those with other congenital anomalies were excluded. A baseline echo and electrical cardiometry were done at the time of enrollment and on day 5. Results Forty neonates were enrolled (27 females, 13 males). Closure rate of oral ibuprofen was 100% (39/39) while paracetamol failed to close the PDA in one patient (closure success 0%). Echo and EC didn’t agree upon the tested parameters (stroke volume (SV), cardiac index (CI), ejection fraction (EF), cardiac output (CO) but agreed in measuring heart rate (HR). In patients with inotropes, Echo detected significant changes in CO (p = 0.044) and CI (p = 0.047) but no changes in SV, EF and HR (p = 0.41, 0.506 &amp; 0.105 respectively). In patients who needed mechanical ventilation, Echo detected significant changes in CI (p = 0.008), CO (0.006) and SV (0.042). No changes were detected in any parameter by EC in patients who needed either inotropes or mechanical ventilation (p &amp;gt; 0.05 in all parameters). Conclusion While EC is safe and an easy to apply device, our results show that electrocardiometry is not as accurate as the echocardiography in predicting the hemodynamic changes that might correspond to the closure of PDA in preterm neonates with hemodynamically significant PDA.

Effects of pain, sedation and analgesia on neonatal brain injury and brain development

Critically ill newborns experience numerous painful procedures as part of lifesaving care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. However, painful exposures in the neonatal period have been associated with alterations in brain maturation and poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes in childhood. The most frequently used medications for pain and sedation in the NICU are opioids, benzodiazepines and sucrose; these have also been associated with abnormalities in brain maturation and neurodevelopment making it challenging to know what the best approach is to treat neonatal pain. This article provides clinicians with an overview of how neonatal exposure to pain as well as analgesic and sedative medications impact brain maturation and neurodevelopmental outcomes in critically ill infants. We also highlight areas in need of future research to develop standardized neonatal pain monitoring and management strategies.

Enhancement of single-lead dry-electrode ECG through wavelet denoising

Neonatal electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is an important diagnostic tool for identifying cardiac issues in infants at birth. Long-term remote neonatal dry-electrode ECG monitoring solutions can be an additional step for preventive healthcare measures. In these solutions, power and computationally efficient embedded signal processing techniques for denoising newborn ECGs can assist in increasing neonatal medical wearable time. Wavelet denoising is an appropriate denoising mechanism with low computational complexity that can be implemented on embedded microcontrollers for long-term remote ECG monitoring. Discrete wavelet transform (DWT) denoising for neonatal dry-electrode ECG using different wavelet families is investigated. The wavelet families and mother wavelets used include Daubechies (db1, db2, db3, db4, and db6), symlets (sym5), and coiflets (coif5). Different levels of added white Gaussian noise (AWGN) were added to 19 newborn ECG signals, and denoising was performed to select the appropriate wavelets for neonatal dry-electrode ECG. The selected wavelets then undergo real noise additions of baseline wander and electrode motion to determine their robustness and accuracy. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), mean squared error (MSE), and power spectral density (PSD) are used to examine denoising performance. db1, db2, and db3 wavelets are eliminated from analysis where the 30 dB AWGN led to negative SNR improvement for at least one newborn ECG, removing important ECG information. db4 and sym5 are eliminated from selection due to their different waveform morphology compared to the dry-electrode newborn ECG’s QRS complex. db6 and coif5 are selected due to their highest SNR improvement and lowest MSE of 6.26 × 10−6 and 1.65 × 10−7 compared to other wavelets, respectively. Their wavelet shapes are more like a newborn ECG’s QRS morphology, validating their selection. db6 and coif5 showed similar denoising performance, decreasing electrode motion and baseline wander noisy ECG signals by 10 dB and 14 dB, respectively. Further denoising of inherent dry-electrode noise is observed. DWT with coif5 or db6 wavelets is appropriate for denoising newborn dry-electrode ECGs for long-term neonatal dry-electrode ECG monitoring solutions under different noise types. Their similarity to newborn dry-electrode ECGs yields accurate and robust reconstructed denoised newborn dry-electrode ECG signals.

Early Subclinical Status Epilepticus May Contribute to Developmental Delays in Infants With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex

We present a case of a newborn with a prenatally discovered cardiac rhabdomyoma leading to early genetic diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). This early diagnosis prompted a presymptomatic electroencephalography (EEG) that revealed subclinical seizures meeting the definition for status epilepticus on day 1 of life. Antiseizure medications (ASMs), including vigabatrin, were started. The EPISTOP and PREVeNT trials demonstrated that early life initiation of vigabatrin may reduce the degree of refractory epilepsy and epileptic spasms (ES) in this population (TSC). Although neonatal seizures are a known entity in TSC, continuous neonatal EEG monitoring is not standard at birth. This case supports early consideration for neonatal EEG monitoring to identify and treat neonatal seizures, reduce risk for infantile spasms, and potentially improve neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Clinico-etiological profile of neonates with jaundice in a tertiary care hospital of Northernmost India

Background: Neonatal jaundice is the most common problem in the first week of life leading to delayed hospital discharges and readmissions. Recognizing early neonatal hyperbilirubinemia plays a pivotal role in preventing serious complications. The aim of this study was to study the clinical profile and etiological factors leading to neonatal jaundice. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), department of pediatrics, government medical college, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India over a period of 6 months (August 2023 to January 2024). A total of 400 cases were enrolled for the study. Data collection was done by history taking, clinical examination and relevant laboratory investigations. Results: In this study, out of 400 jaundiced neonates, 236 (59%) were males and 164 (41%) were females, 342 (85.5%) were born at term and remaining 58 (14.5%) were preterm babies. Among 400 neonates studied, majority (80%) had birth weight ≥2500 gm. Only 80 (20%) had birth weight less than 2500 gm. Physiological jaundice was seen in 162 (40.5%) of the total cases. This was followed by ABO incompatibility (20%), Rh incompatibility (16.5%), sepsis (8%), idiopathic (5%), prematurity (4%), cephalhematoma (4%) and breastfeeding jaundice (2%). Conclusions: This study concludes that physiological jaundice is the most common cause of neonatal jaundice in our hospital. This was followed by ABO incompatibility, Rh incompatibility and sepsis. This highlights the importance of appropriate monitoring of neonates with these underlying risk factors.

Kangaroo Mother Care Practices in Tertiary Care NICUs Across India: A Cross-sectional Questionnaire-based Survey

Background KMC is a global standard for LBW and preterm neonates, supported by evidence for reducing morbidities and mortality. Integrated into India’s Newborn Action Plan since 2014, aiming for single-digit neonatal mortality by 2030, KMC practices in India have not reached the optimal levels. Hence, we attempted to study the KMC practices in tertiary care NICUs across India. Methods A cross-sectional online national survey among neonatologists in level III NICUs in India was conducted. Utilizing Google Forms and a structured questionnaire of 30 questions on KMC, one respondent per unit participated. Results Of the 110 NICUs invited to participate, a total of 52 units responded (47.3%). All units have a written KMC policy and conventionally provide KMC to neonates with BW &lt; 2000 g, while 36.5% units provide KMC for neonates with BW between 2000 and 2500 g. Though 86.5% of NICUs provide KMC to infants on respiratory support, only 13.5% practice KMC for mechanically ventilated neonates. The time to initiate KMC within 48–72 hours is prevalent in 44.2% of NICUs, with 54% of NICUs providing an average KMC duration of 4–8 hours/day. A significantly lower percentage of NICUs (28.9%) have a KMC follow-up program. Conclusion The study highlights the need to boost the ongoing KMC training programs for HCWs to increase the coverage of KMC for LBWs and sick preterm neonates. This includes requiring more uniform and structured KMC practices across the country, especially upscaling of infrastructure, earlier initiation and longer duration of KMC, better monitoring of neonates in KMC, and strengthening the follow-up program.

The Future of Neonatal Cerebral Oxygenation Monitoring: Directions After the SafeBoosC-III Trial

The Future of Neonatal Cerebral Oxygenation Monitoring: Directions After the SafeBoosC-III Trial

Assessment of gentamicin dosing and monitoring in neonates: A single center experience.

Gentamicin is a commonly used medication in NICUs. It is known to have ototoxic & nephrotoxic side effects. To date there is no consensus about dosing regimen in different institutions. Our study aims to evaluate the Neofax® dosing regimen for gentamicin in neonatal early onset sepsis in relation to trough level before the second dose and its association with the incidence of gentamicin side effects, namely hearing impairment/loss and acute kidney injury. Retrospective chart review of newborns admitted to Tawam hospital NICU (June 2019-May 2020) who received gentamicin for early onset sepsis (≤72 hours old). Trough levels before the second dose at 24,36 and 48 hours were reviewed (≥1 mg/L is high). Excluded patients with renal risk factors. Side effects (hearing impairment, acute renal injury) were also assessed. Total of 265 infants were included, among whom 149 patients received gentamicin at 24 hours interval, 99 at 36 and 17 at 48 hours interval. Trough level was high in 76% (P = 0.022), 65% (P = 0.127), and 53% (P = 0.108) of patients who received gentamicin at 24, 36, and 48 hours, respectively. Hearing screening was normal in 99.2% of patients, while 2 patients failed the test (Both with normal trough levels). No patients in our study developed renal injury related to gentamicin use. Neofax® gentamicin dosing often results in high trough levels, especially in late preterm/term infants. This study found no correlation between high trough levels and hearing impairment upon discharge or acute kidney injury. Further studies with larger sample size are recommended.

LAPAROSCHISIS: ABOUT A CASE REPORT AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Laparoschisis is a congenital anomaly characterized by the protrusion of abdominal organs, predominantly the intestines, through a defect in the abdominal wall, typically observed on the right side. It is categorized into simple and complex types based on the extent of the defect and involvement of other organs. The estimated prevalence of laparoschisis is approximately 1 in 10,000 births, with variations noted in different regions. Interestingly, certain areas, like New York and Georgia exhibit an increasing trend, particularly among younger mothers. In Morocco, a study carried out at the Les Orangers hospital in Rabat in 2020 showing that the laparoschisis represent 5.1% of musculoskeletal malformations in newborns (equivalent to 1.7per 10,000 total births). Prenatal ultrasound is the primary diagnostic tool, enabling early detection of the abdominal wall defect and protruding organs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide additional information for diagnosis. Treatment options for laparoschisis include primary repair, performed shortly after birth, and delayed closure, which is postponed for a certain period after birth, depending on case-specific factors such as defect size, condition of protruding organs, and the presence of complications such as stenosis and atresia. Prognosis is influenced by the gravity of the malformation and associated conditions, necessitating close obstetrical and neonatal monitoring with tailored interventions for optimal outcomes. To illustrate the practical aspects of laparoschisis management, we present a case study involving a live-born infant diagnosed with laparoschisis at 34 weeks gestation using prenatal ultrasound. A comprehensive one-stage surgical repair was performed on the newborn. This case highlights the importance of early antenatal diagnosis through ultrasound, potential complications, and immediate and secondary management strategies for optimal outcomes in affected infants.

Bayesian Vancomycin Model Selection for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Neonates.

Pharmacokinetic models can inform drug dosing of vancomycin in neonates to optimize therapy. However, the model selected needs to describe the intended population to provide appropriate dose recommendations. Our study aims to identify the population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model(s) with the best performance to predict vancomycin exposure in neonates in our hospital. Relevant published PopPK models for vancomycin in neonates were selected based on demographics and vancomycin dosing strategy. The predictive performance of the models was evaluated in Tucuxi using a local cohort of 69 neonates. Mean absolute error (MAE), relative bias (rBias) and relative root mean square error (rRMSE) were used to quantify the accuracy and precision of the predictive performance of each model for three different approaches: a priori, a posteriori, and Bayesian forecasting for the next course of therapy based on the previous course predictions. A PopPK model was considered clinically acceptable if rBias was between ± 20 and 95% confidence intervals included zero. A total of 25 PopPK models were identified and nine were considered suitable for further evaluation. The model of De Cock et al. 2014 was the only clinically acceptable model based on a priori [MAE 0.35 mg/L, rBias 0.8 % (95% confidence interval (CI) -7.5, 9.1%), and rRMSE 8.9%], a posteriori [MAE 0.037 mg/L, rBias -0.23% (95% CI -1.3, 0.88%), and rRMSE 6.02%] and Bayesian forecasting for the next courses [MAE 0.89 mg/L, rBias 5.45% (95% CI -8.2, 19.1%), and rRMSE 38.3%) approaches. The De Cock model was selected based on a comprehensive approach of model selection to individualize vancomycin dosing in our neonates.

The practice of umbilical vessels catheterization in neonatal intensive care units: a survey

Background: Umbilical venous catheterization and umbilical arterial catheterization provides easy access for administering fluids, exchange transfusion, medications, parenteral nutrition, blood pressure monitoring and blood sampling in neonates. Objective was to know the common practices related to the placement and maintenance of umbilical catheters, along with the associated complications in the level 3 and 4 neonatal intensive care units in the USA. Methods: A questionnaire-based survey study was conducted among NICU practitioners across United States. Only one survey was sent to each NICU. Results: Among the survey respondents, 50.8% represented level 3 NICUs, while 49.2% represented level 4 NICUs. The maximum duration for both UVC and UAC use was commonly reported as up to 7 days. Birth weight was the predominant method (86.8%) used for calculating catheter length. X-rays were universally employed for position confirmation. Heparin was widely utilized through UVC (96.7%), with a concentration of 0.5 IU/ml (73.7%). In cases of malpositioned UVC, practitioners employed techniques such as inserting another catheter, utilizing twisting movements during insertion, adjusting the UVC to a low position, and replacing the malpositioned UVC with a peripheral intravenous line. Common complications associated with UVC included line occlusion, thrombosis, and infections, while poor extremity perfusion and thrombosis were reported with UAC. Most units allowed feeding even when patients had a UAC in place. Conclusions: Despite the presence of institutional policies in most NICUs, practitioners encountered several complications during the use of umbilical catheters.

Preeclampsia/eclampsia impacts the structure and function of neonatal hearts probably by reducing myocardial compaction

PurposePreeclampsia/Eclampsia (PE/E) poses significant risks to neonatal cardiac health. Traditional echocardiographic methods have limitations in detailing these impacts. This study hypothesized that echocardiographic radiomics could provide a more comprehensive assessment of the cardiac changes in neonates affected by PE/E. MethodIn a comprehensive analysis, 2594 neonates underwent echocardiographic screening. From these, 556 were selected for detailed radiomics analysis, focusing on cardiac shape, movement, and texture features. A multiblock sparse partial least squares (sPLS) model integrated these features to assess their association with PE/E. ResultsNewborns from PE/E-affected pregnancies displayed lower left ventricular ejection fractions compared to the control group (61.1 % vs. 66.2 %). Our radiomics approach extracted 15,494 features per neonate, with the sPLS model identifying 17 features significantly correlated with PE/E. Among these, texture features representing myocardial non-compaction were most strongly correlated with PE/E (correlation coefficient r = 0.63). Detailed visualization of these texture features suggested that PE/E might lead to more pronounced myocardial non-compaction, characterized by a thicker non-compaction layer and increased cardiac trabeculation. ConclusionsOur findings demonstrate the potential of echocardiographic radiomics as a tool for assessing the impact of PE/E on neonatal cardiac function. The correlation between PE/E and myocardial non-compaction underlines the need for enhanced cardiac monitoring in neonates born to PE/E-affected mothers. This study contributes to a better understanding of PE/E's cardiac implications, potentially guiding future clinical practices.