Neonatal Vitality Research Articles

Impact of hypothyroidism on bitch fertility and neonatal mortality and morbidity - a review of the literature

There are a few studies and case reports that postulate a connection between hypothyroidism and reproductive disorders in bitches and an increased neonatal mortality and morbidity in puppies. Other studies, however, cannot demonstrate a connection between hypothyroidism and reproductive disorders in bitches. In this work, the relevant literature is to be checked for its evidence. The connection between hypothyroidism and reproductive disorders in the bitch, puppy mortality and neonatal morbidity to hypothyroidism will be analyzed based on a literature review. For this purpose, the available German and international "English-language" literature from 1986 to January 2023 was analyzed. It turns out that only a small amount of literature contains high levels of scientific evidence, as it mostly consists of case reports and expert opinions. In some case reports a connection between estrous abnormalities, galactorrhoea and infertility and the presence of hypothyroidism could be seen, but in experimental studies and according to the opinion of other authors the connection between hypothyroidism and reproductive disorders does not exist. A negative influence of hypothyroidism on the birth process could not be clearly proven. In an experimental study, although the duration and intensity of uterine contractions were longer and weaker in animals with hypothyroidism, the interval between pup births was not affected. Only in the area of neonatal mortality and morbidity a connection with the hypothyroidism of the dam could be demonstrated. The puppies of affected bitches showed a lower birth weight and were weaker than puppies of euthyroid bitches. The importance of hypothyroidism for fertility in the bitch has not yet been documented in the literature, but this endocrinopathy seems to have an influence on neonatal vitality.

Canine pulmonary clearance during feto-neonatal transition according to the type of delivery

The success of immediate adaptation to extrauterine life depends on appropriate lung function, however, elective cesarean section can increase the risk of respiratory distress as a result of reduced pulmonary fluid absorption. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of birth mode on pulmonary clearance and respiratory performance of canine neonates in the transition period. For this purpose, 37 neonates were selected according to the obstetric condition: Vaginal Eutocia (n = 17) and Elective C-section (n = 20). Neonates were evaluated for neonatal vitality score, as well as evaluation of heart and respiratory rates, body temperature and body weight, venous hemogasometric evaluation, blood lactate and glucose, pulse oximetry and radiographic evaluation during the first 24 h of life. Additionally, amniotic fluid electrolyte composition of each puppy was evaluated. There was no influence of the type of delivery on electrolyte composition of canine amniotic fluid and neonatal pulmonary liquid content, analyzed by thoracic X-Rays. On the other hand, elective cesarean section delayed pulmonary adaptation, resulting in hypoxemia and less efficient compensatory response to acid-base imbalance and thermoregulation. In conclusion, elective c-section does not delay pulmonary clearance, whilst alters pulmonary adaptation by less efficient gas exchange and lower oxygenation, hindering the compensatory response to acid-base imbalance during the fetal-neonatal transition in dogs.

Influence of prenatal corticosteroid therapy on neonatal vitality and utility as a labor-inducing agent in Santa Inês ewes.

Since the 1970s, maternal corticosteroid therapy has been used successfully to induce labor. This allows for better monitoring of parturients and provision of first aid to neonates, improving neonatal viability, as this treatment induces maturation in a variety of fetal tissues, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality. Although the effects of corticosteroids are well known, few studies have investigated the influence of this therapy in Santa Inês sheep. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dexamethasone at two doses (8 and 16 mg) to induce lambing in Santa Inês ewes at 145 days of gestation and assess its effects on neonatal vitality. For this study, 58 ewes raised in an extensive system were investigated. Pregnancy was confirmed after artificial insemination at a set time or after controlled mounting. Ewes were separated into three groups: an untreated control group (G1: 0 mg) and groups treated with two doses of dexamethasone (G2: 8 mg and G3: 16 mg). In total, 79 lambs were born. Their vitality was assessed based on their Apgar score, weight, temperature, and postnatal behavior. SAS v9.1.3 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC) was used to analyze data, considering a 5% significance level for all analyses. The births in the induced groups occurred 48.4 ± 22.1 h after induction, while the ewes that underwent non-induced labor gave birth 131.96 ± 41.9 h after placebo application (p < 0.05), confirming the efficacy of dexamethasone to induce and synchronize labor. The induced and non-induced neonates had similar Apgar scores, temperatures, weights, and postnatal behavioral parameters (p > 0.05). This study showed that inducing labor in Santa Inês ewes at 145 days of gestation with a full (16 mg) or half dose (8 mg) of dexamethasone is an effective technique and does not compromise neonate vitality.

Prepartum Magnesium Butyrate Supplementation of Dairy Cows Improves Colostrum Yield, Calving Ease, Fertility, Early Lactation Performance and Neonatal Vitality.

Butyrate promotes rumen epithelium growth and function; however, the effect of prepartum butyrate supplementation on dairy cow productivity, health and their offspring has not been extensively studied. Furthermore, no studies have investigated the effect of magnesium butyrate (MgB), which is also a source of magnesium. A trial was performed to test the hypothesis that prepartum MgB supplementation (105 g/cow/day) would increase colostrum quality and improve calving, newborn calf vitality and cow health. Multiparous Holstein cows were randomly assigned to MgB supplemented (n = 107) and Control groups (n = 112). Colostrum yield and the total yield of IgG, protein and lactose were higher (p ≤ 0.05) in the supplemented group. The calving assistance rate was lower (p ≤ 0.012), and the neonatal vitality score was higher (p ≤ 0.001) in the MgB group. Improved parameters related to cow health and fertility were observed in the supplemented group. The MgB group also had higher milk yield during the first week of lactation (p ≤ 0.001), and a higher (p ≤ 0.05) body condition score from 3 to 9 weeks after calving. In conclusion, prepartum MgB supplementation provides a wide range of benefits for dairy cows, as well as their newborn calves.

Importance of Monitoring Fetal and Neonatal Vitality in Bovine Practices.

Prior to initiating any obstetrical intervention for anterior or posterior presentation, it is imperative to emphasize the need for a precise and accurate diagnosis of fetal viability and to select the most appropriate approach for assistance. In uncertain cases, diagnostic tools such as ultrasonography, pulse oximeter, or measurement of acid-base balance or lactate concentration may be employed to confirm the diagnosis. In situations of severe asphyxia, a cesarean section is preferred over traction, even if the duration of asphyxia is less than 60 s, to maximize the likelihood of the survival of the fetus. Postcalving, several vitality scores have been proposed to evaluate the vigor of the newborn calf. Originally, four different clinical signs were recommended for assessing the well-being of newborn calves. Subsequently, five or more different clinical signs were recommended to evaluate vitality. However, despite the efforts for devising a practical tool to assess newborn calf vitality; a user-friendly and highly accurate instrument that can be used on farms remains elusive. Measuring the acid-base balance or lactate concentration may increase the diagnostic accuracy. It is critical to emphasize the importance of reducing the incidence of dystocia to mitigate the occurrence of severe asphyxia. In instances where asphyxia is unavoidable, adequate treatments should be administered to minimize losses.

Comparison of 2 anesthetic protocols and surgical timing during cesarean section on neonatal vitality and umbilical cord blood parameters

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the mode of anesthesia, the time form the induction to the extraction of a puppy and the immediate postnatal vitality and umbilical cord blood gases parameters in cesarean section derived-puppies. Two different anesthetic protocols were used: inhalation using isoflurane (ISO) and combined—inhalation and epidural (EPI) with propofol being the induction agent.ResultsSignificant differences were found in ISO group in pH values, pCO2 levels and Apgar scores between puppies at different extraction times (< 30 vs. ≥ 30 min). In ISO group puppies extracted later were more acidic (7.16 vs. 7.22), had higher levels of pCO2 (69 vs. 57 mmHg) and lower Apgar scores at birth (1.2 vs. 2.5). On the contrary, in EPI group no differences were observed between the delivery time, umbilical blood gas parameters and puppies’ vitality. Furthermore, the dams from the EPI group required lower concentrations of isoflurane (MAC 1.11 ± 0.19 vs.1.37 ± 0.16, p < 0.001).ConclusionsMultiple pregnancies frequent in dogs lead to significant differences in extraction times between the first and the last puppy during cesarean section. Obtained results showed that the mode of anesthesia and the surgical time would influence the neonatal outcome during cesarean section in dogs. The higher concentration of isoflurane with the longer time of exposure had a negative effect on the initial newborn vitality as well as the umbilical cord blood gas parameters. Therefore, when performing CS in giant dog breeds or expecting many puppies in the litter, it is worth considering epidural component that allow for lower concentrations of inhalant agents, which may contribute to a better clinical condition of newborns.

Effect of thiamine pyrophosphate on the characteristics of farrowing and piglet vitality

Asphyxia is considered the main non-infectious cause of prepartum mortality in swine, as well as an important factor that negatively affects neonatal vitality and can trigger physiological and metabolic disorders. Hence, the search for pharmacological protocols to reduce the harmful effects of asphyxia is a key area of research. Recent observations show that administering thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) prior to a hypoxic event in certain species (rabbits, rats) has a neuroprotector effect that preserves energy metabolism under hypoxic conditions. Given this, the objective of this study was to evaluate a prophylactic protocol in high- and low-vitality neonate piglets based on TPP's effect on physiological and metabolic responses, body temperature, and weight. A total of 149 piglets born from 15 multiparous sows were used. The dams were randomly divided into two groups: control (NaCl 0.9%) and TPP (25 ml of TTP) administered 24 and 12 h before the expected farrowing date. The following reproductive variables of the sows were recorded: duration of farrowing, total number of piglets born per litter, number of liveborn piglets per litter, number of stillbirths and mummified fetuses at birth, and number of live piglets at weaning. In addition, the expulsion interval and vitality of all neonates were evaluated, body temperatures were recorded at ten intervals, and physiological profiles (blood gases, electrolytes, glucose) were registered for each neonate. Results show that the TPP-treated sows had shorter farrowing duration (P = 0.0060) and higher percentage of high-vitality neonates (60%). Moreover, their offspring exhibited greater vitality, fewer imbalances in their physiological and metabolic profiles, and greater weight gain at weaning (P < 0.0001). Findings suggest that administering TPP exerts a protective effect when hypoxic events occur, though this differs from results obtained with rat pups, where applying TPP after such events did not provide protection from asphyxia-induced damage. These differences may be due to the moment at which TPP was applied. The application time we selected was distinct from the procedure followed with rats because it was based on a dataset that describes the influence of administering TPP as a prophylactic treatment before a hypoxic event. Prophylactic administration of TPP to sows at the end of gestation exerted a neuroprotective effect on neonatal vitality and gas exchanges and energy metabolism in the offspring that were reflected in the greater weekly weight gain in those piglets.

Association of a green tea extract with serum immunoglobulin G status and neonatal vitality in newborn dairy calves.

Poor vigor at birth has been associated with reduced IgG absorption from colostrum and a reduced vitality in neonatal dairy calves. Some natural compounds, such as green tea extract, may improve vitality in compromised calves. The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the potential of supplementing a green tea extract (15 mL) to calves to improve vigor and activity behavior for the first 72 h postnatal. Also, this study aimed to investigate the influence of green tea extract supplementation on calf serum IgG concentration and the apparent efficiency of absorption (AEA) of colostral IgG. Holstein calves (n = 24) weighing 42.49 ± 1.07 kg postnatal received a complete random assignment at 3 h of one 15-mL dose of green tea extract (Calf Perk, TechMix) or distilled water orally before tube feeding colostrum replacer (Premolac Plus IgG, Zinpro) at 4 h postnatal. Two observers assessed for calving time and dystocia by live video stream to retrieve all calves within 2 h postnatal. One veterinarian performed a baseline vigor assessment based on heart rate and response to stimuli on all calves at 2.5 h, before colostrum feeding at 3.75 h, as well as at 24, 48, and 72 h postnatal. Calf blood samples were taken to assess total IgG by radial immunodiffusion assay at 2.5, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. Calf vitality was also observed continuously by video for all calves to determine whether treatment was associated with attempts to stand, lying time, and exploration of their pen environment for the first 24 h. We used an ordinal logistic model to evaluate the odds of green tea extract improving a calf's vigor category from 2.5 h postnatal to 72 h of age. Vigor score was categorized as abnormal (≤4), average (5), or alert (≥6), with hour as a fixed effect. We also ran mixed linear models to evaluate the effect of extract on total IgG and AEA, with time and dystocia as fixed effects. Five dystocia calves were enrolled (2 control, 3 extract), but assistance was minor (e.g., manual assistance and all were assisted within 1 h). Baseline vigor scores and baseline total IgG were not different between groups. Vigor score category was not associated with green tea extract supplementation (odds ratio 1.17; 95% CI: 0.43-3.15) but increased with time compared with controls. We observed no association of treatment with total IgG or AEA in the calves, suggesting green tea extract does not compromise IgG absorption. Calf vitality, lying behavior, and exploratory behavior were not associated with green tea extract treatment. Our findings suggest that green tea extract supplementation does not affect AEA and serum IgG concentration in calves. Future research should evaluate whether green tea extract improves vitality in calves experiencing severe dystocia.

Feline Fertility: Consequences of inbreeding and implications for reproductive fitness.

When compared with the number of individuals that make up a dog breed, the population within a given cat breed is very small. Therefore, to maintain a breed standard, a certain degree of inbreeding is necessary. However, when inbreeding reaches a certain threshold, it can lead to decreased fertility, which manifests as failure to conceive, smaller litter size, increased neonatal illness and neonatal mortality. Breeders should be encouraged to keep comprehensive records on breeding outcomes, including number of kittens born, neonatal vitality, daily kitten weights and kitten health at weaning. Commercially available DNA panels are available to inform and facilitate excellent breeding choices and can estimate the coefficient of inbreeding. Clinicians should include a review of the degree of inbreeding in the work-up for any cattery or cat colony experiencing decreased fertility. The objective of this article is to provide clinicians, especially those working with cat breeders, with an easy-to-understand guide to genetics and to demonstrate how inbreeding influences fertility and neonatal survival. Medical records and the pedigree of the cats in question are required to investigate cases of infertility that may be related to inbreeding. A DNA analysis kit that measures genetic diversity and health parameters can also be helpful; those that have been developed by geneticists and veterinarians at universities are preferable, as they include access to highly skilled genetic counselors and researchers who are open to working up newly discovered genetic diseases. The material provided is based on current literature and the author's own studies examining outcomes in a closed cattery.

Influence of overweight and obesity on perinatal outcomes in assisted reproduction: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundIn spontaneous pregnancies, maternal weight and gestational diabetes are independent risk factors for macrosomia and large-for-gestational-age newborns. Furthermore, maternal body mass index (BMI) of ≥25 kg/m2 is associated with worse neonatal vitality, classified as an Apgar score of < 7 at the fifth minute of life. However, few studies have evaluated the influence of BMI on perinatal outcomes in pregnancies resulting from assisted reproduction. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze whether the perinatal outcomes of assisted reproduction are influenced by BMI.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study performed at a reproductive medicine center. Patients undergoing assisted reproduction (2013–2020) were divided into three groups according to their BMI (kg/m2): group 1, < 25; group 2, 25–29.9, and group 3, ≥30. In total, 1753 in vitro fertilization embryo transfer cycles were analyzed. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation or frequency (%). The analysis of variance and chi-square test were performed for comparison. To determine the participants and number of cycles for these analyses, generalized estimating equations were used, considering p < 0.05.ResultsIn groups 1, 2, and 3, the rates of live birth were 33.5, 32.3, and 29.9% (p = 0.668); preeclampsia were 2.9, 6.1, and 6.3% (p = 0.268); small-for-gestational-age newborns were 23, 23.2, and 21.7% (p = 0.965); macrosomia were 1.9, 0.9, and 2.7% (p = 0.708); Apgar score > 7 at the fifth minute were 97.6, 98.2, and 100% (p = 0.616); and preterm birth were 29.6, 30.1, and 35.1% (p = 0.970), respectively.ConclusionsIn conclusion, although the three groups had similar perinatal outcomes in this study, the study population was too small for conclusive results. The higher the BMI, the lower the chances of clinically relevant LBR and the higher the chances of premature labor and preeclampsia.

Canine Neonatal Assessment by Vitality Score, Amniotic Fluid, Urine, and Umbilical Cord Blood Analysis of Glucose, Lactate, and Cortisol: Possible Influence of Parturition Type?

Simple SummaryParturition as a stressful event may influence puppies’ neonatal morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of parturition type on stress in newborn puppies, their weight gains, and survival in the first week postpartum. One hundred and twenty-three puppies were divided into three groups: vaginal parturition, emergency, and elective cesarean section. The Apgar score was assessed 5, 15, and 60 min postpartum, and samples of amniotic fluid, umbilical blood, and urine were collected for lactate, glucose, and cortisol concentration measurements. Although emergency cesarean section puppies had the highest cortisol concentration of all groups, their Apgar score at 5 min postpartum was comparable to the vaginal parturition group, which had the highest lactate levels. There were no significant differences between groups regarding relative growth rate. The type of parturition had no impact on puppies’ survival in our study, but supportive treatment was provided for non-vital puppies in stress. Non-invasive analysis of amniotic fluid and/or urine could help in the assessment of the neonatal vitality.The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of parturition type on vitality in newborn puppies, their weight gains, and survival in the first week postpartum. One hundred and twenty-three puppies were divided in three groups: vaginal parturition (VP), emergency (EM-CS), and elective cesarean section (EL-CS). Apgar scores were assessed 5, 15, and 60 min postpartum. Lactate and glucose concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid and umbilical blood; cortisol concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid and puppy urine. Puppies’ weight gain was tracked daily for 7 days postpartum. Apgar score at 5 and 15 min was significantly better in the VP group. EL-CS puppies had significantly lower umbilical blood and amniotic fluid lactate concentrations compared to the VP group, which also had higher umbilical blood lactate concentration than EM-CS puppies. The cortisol concentration in the amniotic fluid and in urine differed significantly between the groups, with the highest concentration in the EM-CS, followed by the VP group. Glucose concentration in amniotic fluid was higher in the VP group than EM-CS group. The type of parturition had no impact on puppies’ weight gain or their survival at birth; however, supportive treatment was provided for non-vital puppies. Non-invasive analysis of puppies’ fluids could help in the assessment of the neonatal vitality.

Low-dose midazolam for anxiolysis for pregnant women undergoing cesarean delivery: a randomized trial

IntroductionAnxiety and fear are common among pregnant women undergoing cesarean delivery. In addition to psychologically unpleasant, they can elicit endocrine and metabolic changes. Administration of benzodiazepines in this patient group is uncommon and investigation focusing on the topic is rare. This study aimed to determine anxiolysis efficacy of low-dose midazolam administered preoperatively, right before cesarean delivery, and to evaluate whether its administration impacts neonatal vitality, maternal consciousness, and recall of the moment the baby was born. MethodsFifty pregnant women with indication for cesarean delivery were included in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study and allocated into two groups of 25 participants each (Midazolam and Control group). Midazolam (0.0125 mg.kg-1) or a placebo solution was administered immediately before spinal anesthesia and the anxiolytic effect was assessed using a visual analogue scale before and after administration. We registered the Apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes, the Ramsay scale and recall of the moment of birth, that was assessed 90 minutes after birth. ResultsPregnant women from the Midazolam group presented a 1.3-point reduction in anxiety on the visual analogue scale, while the Control group showed virtually no change (p = 0.027). We observed no statistically significant changes in Apgar scores, level of maternal consciousness and recall of the moment of delivery. ConclusionsLow-dose midazolam can provide anxiety management in pregnant women undergoing cesarean delivery with no significant undesirable effects.

Prediction of vitality and survival of newborn lambs using a modified Apgar score

The Apgar score is widely used for global evaluation of the neonate in a minimally invasive way, it assesses neonatal vitality through a range of scores on clinical signs of health and vitality, such as reflexes, respiration rate, and mucosal coloration. The neonatal period is fundamental for lambs survival, that is dependent on complex interactions between maternal ability and newborn viability, as newborn lambs require milk and immunological protection that are dependent of mutual maternal-filial behaviour. The aim of this study was to determine the vitality of Suffolk newborn lambs by the modified Apgar method. Thirty-seven ewes were used and their lambs were classified at 5 min of age by the modified Apgar method. The ewes' body condition score, number of lambs born, and birth weight were recorded. Behaviour was evaluated by measuring, in minutes, the intervals between birth and sternal recumbency, the adoption of quadrupedal position, time until first suckling, and duration of first suckling. Blood samples were collected from the lambs between 24 and 36 h of age to determine gamma-glutamyltransferase activity. Of the 37 births observed, 20 were singles and 17 twins, resulting in 54 newborn lambs, which 27 were classified as high, 11 as moderate and 16 as low Apgar, and the percentages of deaths were 8% (n = 1), 10 % (n = 2) and 81.25 % (n = 13), respectively. The causes of death were: starvation-hypoglycemia-hypothermia complex (10/16, 62.5 %), pneumonia (3/16, 18.75 %), and stillbirth (3/16, 18.75 %). The concentration of gamma-glutamyltransferase in the lamb′s serum with low Apgar was significantly (p-value 0.0027) lower (462.4 IU/L) than in lambs born with moderate (1616.8 IU/L) and high (3177.7 IU/L) Apgar. Birth weight (r = 0.39 and p = 0.0015) and APGAR (r = 0.61 and p < 0.0001) were correlated with survival. The vitality evaluation did predict survival ability and passive immunity transfer characteristics.

Effect of different doses of dexamethasone on labor in Santa Inês ewes and its influence on the onset of labor and the expulsion of fetal membranes

ABSTRACT: The induction of labor aims to concentrate births to follow up better the parturient and the first care to the neonates. However, even if the labor induction technique with dexamethasone administration has been successfully described since the late 1970s, few studies report the technique of birth development and neonatal vitality in Santa Inês sheep. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of dexamethasone use in two doses (8 and 16mg) in labor induction of Santa Inês ewes at 145 days of gestation and to evaluate its effects on the birth characteristics. In this study, 58 ewes were used, raised in an extensive system in the experimental farms of UFBA, with confirmation pregnancy after fixed-time artificial insemination or controlled breeding. These female ewes were separated into three groups according to the dose of dexamethasone administered (G1 = 0mg, G2 = 8mg, and G3 = 16mg). From these births, 79 lambs were born. This study analyzed the period from induction of labor to birth, fetal presentation at birth, the weight of the placenta, and the period for placenta expulsion. The data were analyzed by the Statistical Analysis System (SAS v.9.1.3®, 2002), and the significance level considered for all analyzes was 5%. Births of induced groups occurred on average at 48.4±22.17 hours after induction, while the females with non-induced labor gave birth 131.96±41.9 hours on average after the placebo application (P&lt;0.05), confirming the efficiency of both doses for induction of labor. The period from induction to birth did not differ (P&gt;0.05) between the doses used. There were no differences in delivery about the fetal static relation, time to placental attachment, and weight. With this study, it can be concluded that the induction at 145 days of gestation with eight or 16mg of dexamethasone is a useful technique and does not alter the labor in Santa Inês sheep.

Effects of clamping umbilical cord on the neonatal viability of puppies delivered by cesarean section.

In human neonates, when the umbilical cord is kept intact postpartum, blood continues to flow to the neonate, but this procedure might be difficult in dogs owing to a shorter umbilical cord and several neonates in a litter. However, it might be possible to detach the placenta and keep the umbilical cord intact, allowing residual blood to flow to the puppies. This study compared the effects of clamping versus no clamping of the umbilical cord in dogs born by cesarean section on neonatal vitality. The puppies were assessed by Apgar and reflex scores. Fifty puppies delivered from 16 bitches were randomly allocated to receive immediate umbilical cord clamping (n=25) or no clamping for at least 3 min after the onset of breathing (n=25). The puppies were assessed during the first 5 min of life and 10 min after the first assessment. The no clamping group showed significantly higher Apgar scores (second assessment, P<0.01) and reflex scores (first and second assessments, P<0.05) than the clamping group, implying higher vitality in the no clamping group. The differences observed between the moments (first versus second assessment) of each group was significant (P<0.01), revealing higher vitality in the second assessment. The results suggest that keeping the umbilical cord intact for at least 3 min after the onset of breathing may contribute to increased vitality in puppies delivered by cesarean section without any negative consequences.

Haematological and biochemical analysis of healthy neonatal puppies during the immediate foetal-to-neonatal transition.

For the neonatal patient, precocity of diagnosis is crucial for effectiveness of medical approach. However, the newborn has its own physiological peculiarities due to ongoing adaptive mechanism for extrauterine life and deserves special attention in order to underline a specific management or clinical approach. The objective of this work was to verify clinical adaptations and biochemical balance of neonates during immediate period, with special reference to haematological, renal and metabolic functions. Neonatal puppies (n=51) were physically examined for vitality and rectal temperature at birth, 5 and 60min post-birth. Blood was collected at birth and 60min post-birth for analysis of glucose, sodium, potassium, chlorine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), haematocrit and haemoglobin. Neonatal vitality was lower at birth compared with 5min and 60min post-birth. Progressive decline in rectal temperature (36.5±0.3°C, 34.2±0.2°C, 32.3±0.5°C) was observed at birth, 5min and 60min post-birth, respectively. Puppies presented slight hyponatremia (140.7±0.5mmol/L) at birth and hypopotassemia (3.5±0.1mmol/L) and blood urea nitrogen (13.1±0.7mg/dl) during the first hour, and high haematocrit (45.1±1.0%) and haemoglobin (15.3±0.3g/dl) concentration. In conclusion, puppies had rapid evolution of vitality. Marked decrease in rectal temperature occurred at 5min post-birth. Haematological values of neonates immediately after birth reflected mainly the dam's blood status, not being useful for a blood panel at this time point. The peculiar pattern of BUN, sodium and potassium observed during transition period, suggested that specific reference range should be considered for neonatal puppies.

Association between non-invasive nursing care technologies during childbirth and neonatal vitality: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Objective: to compare the use of non-invasive midwifery care technologies (TNICEO) with the use of traditional care model practices, having as parameters the presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid and its repercussion on the newborn’s vitality. Method: a cross-sectional study with secondary data of 10,219 parturients who delivered by midwives between September 2004 and October 2016. Logistic regression was used to assess Apgar&gt; 8 Odds Ratio in exposure to noninvasive midwifery care technologies when compared to traditional care. Results: there were higher percentages of light amniotic fluid and neonates with good vitality in parturients who used only TNICEO compared with those exposed only to traditional care. Conclusion: nurse midwives’ provision of TNICEO and its use by women are efficient strategies to reduce unfavorable neonatal outcomes. Implications of practice: investments in the performance of these experts is important, as their know-how to make them not medicalized through TNICEO confirms a process of humanized, safe and quality care that meets official recommendations and contributes to the change in the care model.

Relationship between fetal biometric assessment by ultrasonography and neonatal lamb vitality, birth weight and growth.

Ultrasonographic examination of pregnant ewes can enable the identification of perinatal abnormalities and establish prenatal assistance responsible for minimizing morbidity and perinatal mortality. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a fetal biometric analysis by ultrasonography to predict neonatal vitality and lamb growth during the first month of life. A longitudinal study was conducted with 13 healthy ewes, subjected to ultrasonographic examination every 15 days from 60th day of pregnancy until lambing, evaluating thoracic diameter, abdominal diameter, biparietal diameter, humerus, femur and placentome length. At birth, 22 lambs were assessed through Apgar score at 5 minutes and after 1 hour. Measurement of body weight was also carried out immediately at birth and weekly during 30 days after birth. Thoracic diameter showed a significant increase between 91-105 days and 121-135 days. Conversely, abdominal diameter had a progressive growth until 106-120 days, and then, a steady development was observed. Biparietal diameter showed progressive growth only towards days 91 and 105. For the humerus length, we verified a significant increase between 106-120 days and 121-135 days, remaining unaltered onwards; while femur length continued to grow until lambing. The linear regression analysis between birth weight and biparietal diameter at 60-75 days was high (R2=0.96; P<0.0001; coefficient of variability of 3.3%). In conclusion, ultrasonographic analysis of fetal biparietal diameter at mid-pregnancy can be used as a predictor of lamb weight at birth. Moreover, assessment of femur length at final pregnancy can be employed for fetal and neonatal development estimation.

Oxidative stress and acid–base balance during the transition period of neonatal Holstein calves submitted to different calving times and obstetric assistance

During the neonatal period, constant adaptations to the extrauterine environment are required. These adaptations are made impossible or hindered when unexpected obstetrical events take place. This study aimed to identify clinical changes of vitality, metabolic and acid-base balance, and oxidative stress of newborn calves born to assisted dams that experienced different durations of calving. A prospective and observational study was conducted with 44 Holstein calves allocated to 3 groups according to the duration of calving: 2 h (n = 16), 2-4 h (n = 16), and >4 h (n = 12), and to 2 subgroups: spontaneous calving (n = 22) and assisted calving (n = 22). We observed that obstetric assistance was beneficial when calving lasted more than 4 h, because 100% of assisted calves had a high Apgar score (≥7) at 5 min, similar to that of spontaneously born calves after 2 h of calving. Rectal temperature of all calves remained within normal values, albeit with a reduction at 20 min of life. Calves born after a calving time >4 h had the highest rectal temperatures, especially those that required obstetrical assistance. There was a progressive increase in blood oxygenation with time, but calves in the >4 h group showed the highest partial pressure of carbon dioxide at birth, whereas calves in the 2 h and 2-4 h groups had lower values. A decrease in partial pressure of CO2 was observed at 120 min in the 2-4 h and >4 h groups. In the 2-4 h group, calves with obstetrical assistance had higher oxidative stress (measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) at 120 min of life compared with that at birth. In spontaneously born calves, TBARS increased only after 240 min. In the >4 h group, TBARS increased progressively with time, regardless of obstetrical subgroup. Calves born spontaneously within the 2 h group had higher TBARS values at birth than calves in the >4 h group with obstetrical assistance. Calves in the >4 h group showed higher levels of glutathione peroxidase (an antioxidant enzyme) at birth than those in the remaining groups. Glutathione peroxidase decreased at 120 min in the >4 h group and at 240 min for the 2 h and 2-4 h groups. In conclusion, obstetric assistance did not improve neonatal vitality and blood oxygenation when calving lasted less than 2 h. Calves born after 2 h of calving showed decreased vitality, hypercapnia, hypoxemia, and increased antioxidant status (glutathione peroxidase).

Physiological and metabolic responses in newborn piglets associated with the birth order

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of birth order on the physiological and metabolic responses of the newborn piglet the first hours after birth. A total of 281 randomly selected newborn piglets were included, classified according to birth order in 12 groups (L1-L12). The expulsion interval, neonatal vitality, latency in connecting to the maternal teat and physiological profile were recorded for each piglet. The number of piglets born alive and dead was also recorded. The blood gases, electrolytes and glucose levels of the neonates were obtained by means of an automatic blood gas and electrolyte analyzer. Groups L1, L2, L11, and L12 had the least score on the vitality scale, the longest expulsion intervals, and longest latency to connect with the maternal teat, as well as greater physiological alterations (hyperglycemia, hyperlactatemia and hypercapnia) compared to groups L4 to L9. Likewise, type-II stillbirths only occurred in the first and last quarter of the birth order of the litter. In conclusion, piglets born in the first and last quarter of the birth order of the litter had a greater risk of having physiological and behavioral alterations during farrowing.