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A researcher at the University of Illinois Chicago discusses the implementation of artificial intelligence in the care of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The study highlights the challenges and opportunities of using AI systems for diagnosing ROP, emphasizing the importance of a stable telemedicine infrastructure for successful implementation. The research suggests the need for further validation of AI systems with diverse populations and low-cost imaging devices to prevent childhood blindness effectively. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Medical College and Hospital in Maharashtra, India, conducted a study on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a vaso-proliferative retinal disease that can lead to blindness if not diagnosed early. The study found that factors such as low birth weight, prematurity, respiratory distress syndrome, and mechanical ventilation were significantly associated with ROP. Prompt screening and early diagnosis of ROP are crucial in reducing complications and preventing blindness. The study was published in the Al Ameen Journal of Medical Sciences. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at UMass Chan Medical School focused on the prevalence of personal birth trauma (BT) among obstetricians and its impact on their patient care. The study found that 30.5% of obstetricians reported experiencing BT, leading to post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) such as flashbacks, amnesia, and insomnia. The researchers suggest that initiatives to support birthing obstetricians returning to work should be explored to improve emotional wellness among practicing obstetricians. This study sheds light on the emotional challenges faced by healthcare professionals in the field of obstetrics. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Marshall University explores the relationship between apnea of prematurity (AOP) and oxidative stress in preterm infants. The research highlights the susceptibility of preterm infants to oxidative stress, which can lead to serious health issues such as retinopathy of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Current therapeutic approaches include noninvasive ventilation and xanthine inhibitor therapy, but have only been partially successful in reducing the incidence of AOP and associated morbidities. For more information, the full article is available in the journal Antioxidants. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Hubei University of Medicine in Shiyan, People's Republic of China, focused on evaluating patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for psychological birth trauma (PBT) in postpartum women. The study reviewed thirty-one studies and twelve PROMs, recommending the City BiTS tool for assessing PBT in clinical practice and research involving puerperae. While some PROMs received positive recommendations, further comprehensive studies are needed to validate the psychometric properties of existing measures. This research was published in the Psychology & Psychiatry Journal and has undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Bangalore, India, focused on congenital diaphragmatic hernias with sacs in neonates and children. The research analyzed the clinical profiles and outcomes of 43 patients over a sixteen-year period, highlighting the importance of early detection and referral to specialized pediatric centers for improved prognosis. This study sheds light on a rare embryological defect and emphasizes the significance of clinical awareness in managing such cases effectively. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute in Barcelona, Spain, conducted a systematic review on the effects of prenatal phthalate exposure on fetal development and maternal/neonatal health. The review found that maternal exposure to phthalates is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications and neurodevelopmental disorders in children. The study highlighted the importance of understanding the specific mechanisms of phthalates' disruptive effects, determining toxic doses, identifying critical exposure periods during pregnancy, and assessing long-term health consequences. This research was published in The Science of The Total Environment and emphasizes the need for further investigation into the impact of phthalates on human health. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at United Christian Hospital in Hong Kong examined the precision of vacuum cup placement during vacuum extraction (VE) in term neonates to determine its association with subgaleal hemorrhage (SGH) and other birth trauma. The study found that suboptimal cup positions were related to failed VE but not to SGH and other vacuum-related birth trauma. While optimal cup positions are mechanically desirable for delivery, they do not guarantee prevention of SGH. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into improving birth outcomes for neonates. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Lisbon focused on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a retinal neovascular disease affecting preterm infants. The study analyzed the incidence of ROP and identified key risk factors for its development and progression, such as low gestational age and the number of red blood cell transfusions. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing these risk factors in ROP risk management and suggest further research is needed to explore preventive interventions. For more information, the full article can be accessed for free at the Children journal website. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Georgia examined the relationship between maternal education and antenatal care (ANC) attendance in Georgia. The research found that highly educated women were more likely to have at least one ANC visit compared to those with unknown education levels. The study emphasized the importance of education in improving access to ANC and suggested tailored community programs to boost ANC attendance and improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes. The findings were published in the European Journal of Public Health in 2024. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Sherbrooke have focused on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a severe condition affecting premature infants. The study examines traditional treatments like cryotherapy and laser photocoagulation, as well as emerging nanotherapeutic strategies to improve ROP management. Nanotherapies show promise in offering targeted drug delivery with reduced side effects, potentially enhancing outcomes for premature infants with ROP. Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of these innovative approaches. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research focused on exploring indigenous ways of managing childbirth and its perinatal outcomes during cyclonic periods in hilly tribal homebirth settings. The study found that home deliveries were considered safer than institutional deliveries, except in cases of complicated childbirths. Factors such as rough climatic conditions, geographical distance, lack of financial help, and transportation facilities influenced childbirth practices during cyclonic periods. The research highlighted the need for focused planning on tribal areas for gestation, birthing, and postpartum care during natural disasters. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Vanderbilt University recently conducted a study on foot deformities in newborns, emphasizing the importance of assessing and treating these conditions early. The study reviewed common foot deformities, assessment techniques, and nonsurgical treatment options available. The research highlighted the significance of early recognition and proper evaluation of foot deformities for effective corrective measures. Neonatal providers equipped with knowledge of these issues can offer support and guidance to families. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the impact of acute rhinovirus infections on children with underlying medical conditions. A study conducted from 2011-2013 found that 77.7% of children with symptomatic RV infections had comorbidities such as asthma, prematurity, chronic respiratory diseases, and congenital heart disease. The research highlighted that asthma, prematurity, and congenital heart disease were consistently associated with severe disease outcomes, while bacterial co-infections and higher RV loads predicted worse clinical outcomes. The study emphasizes the importance of identifying clinical phenotypes for targeted interventions in children with RV infections. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Department of Medical Microbiology in Hunan, China conducted a meta-analysis to assess the global prevalence of off-label and unapproved pediatric drug utilization. They found that 56% of pediatric patients in hospitals received off-label or unlicensed prescriptions, with Africa having the highest prevalence rate at 66%. The study concluded that drug authorities should standardize pediatric prescription practices in the future. This research was supported by the Research Project on Traditional Chinese Medicine in Heilongjiang Province and was published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Rangsit University in Bangkok, Thailand, conducted a study on patients with upper brachial plexus injury or isolated axillary nerve injury. They evaluated the function of the posterior deltoid muscle after nerve transfer surgery. The study found that transferring a branch of the radial nerve to the axillary nerve effectively restored deltoid function in most patients. This research was published in The Journal of Hand Surgery and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand, compared the outcomes of nerve transfer surgeries for elbow flexion in patients with brachial plexus injury. The study found that using the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) for reinnervation of the nerve to biceps (NTB) resulted in a shorter time to recovery compared to using the musculocutaneous nerve (MCN). The research concluded that SAN-to-NTB transfer with the proximal dissection technique is the preferred option for restoring elbow flexion in traumatic pan-plexus palsy. This study provides valuable insights for surgical treatment of brachial plexus injuries. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Albany Medical College focused on the characteristics of spontaneously regressed retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants. The research found that residual fibrotic retinal tissue and persistent avascular retina are common after spontaneous regression of ROP. The study concluded that further investigation into the long-term clinical significance of these residual changes is necessary. This peer-reviewed research provides valuable insights into the outcomes of ROP in infants and highlights the need for continued research in this area. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by investigators from Arizona State University examined the impact of prematurity on childhood effortful control development. The research, funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, involved a twin cohort primarily consisting of Hispanic/Latinx and non-Hispanic/Latinx White families. The findings suggest that effortful control has a strong heritable component, with genetics playing a significant role in its development, regardless of gestational age or obstetrical and neonatal complications. This peer-reviewed study sheds light on the differing etiology of effortful control subdomains and emphasizes the importance of genetic factors in its development. [Extracted from the article]

Research from Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences explores the predictive values and correlation of the Perfusion Index (PI) and CRIB Score II in assessing the severity of illness in sick preterm neonates. The study found that the PI is better at predicting severity compared to the CRIB II score, with a weak negative correlation between the two. This research provides valuable insights into neonatal and perinatal medicine, offering potential tools for predicting mortality and morbidity in sick neonates. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Univerza v Ljubljani discusses the importance of neuroimaging in evaluating and treating neonates with brain structural abnormalities and acquired injuries. The research highlights the significant advancements in neuroimaging techniques over the past 40 years, emphasizing their role in improving clinical care for newborns. The study focuses on the diagnosis and prognosis of various acquired and congenital lesions in both term and premature newborns, shedding light on the potential for new therapies. [Extracted from the article]

Dr. Cynthia F. Bearer has been honored with the 2025 Mary Ellen Avery Neonatal Research Award by the American Pediatric Society and the Society for Pediatric Research. Dr. Bearer, a distinguished pediatric investigator, has made significant contributions to neonatal health through her research on conditions affecting the developing brain, such as fetal alcohol syndrome and toxic environmental exposures. Her work has led to advancements in understanding the role of lipid structures in neurodevelopment and advocating for newborn protection from adverse environmental exposures. Dr. Bearer's innovative research has established pediatric and fetal environmental health as a distinct discipline in pediatric and neonatal care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Seth GS Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital in Maharashtra, India, focused on a term neonate with a cross-fused ectopic kidney. The research detailed the unique case of a neonate with an absent left kidney and an enlarged right kidney with obstruction and cysts. Despite the rare condition, the neonate remained stable and is currently six months old with normal growth and development. The study provides insights into the management of this uncommon medical condition. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Duke NUS Medical School examined the utility of umbilical arterial blood gas lactate levels in predicting short-term neonatal morbidity. The research found that while cord blood arterial lactate was not a statistically significant predictor of poor neonatal outcomes, other factors such as maternal and fetal risk factors, as well as biochemical indices, played a role in predicting outcomes. The study highlighted the importance of considering multiple factors in assessing neonatal health and emphasized the need for further research in this area. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Iran focused on mothers' perceptions of family-centered care (FCC) and satisfaction with care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The research, which included 150 mothers of preterm newborns, found that while mothers received below-average FCC, they expressed relatively high satisfaction with the care provided in the NICU. The study highlighted the positive impact of implementing FCC on parents' satisfaction with care and emphasized the need to address barriers to effective implementation in order to enhance the quality of care for parents and their preterm newborns in the NICU setting. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Stanford University School of Medicine analyzed trends in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) among preterm infants in California from 2012 to 2021. The research focused on the incidence rates of ROP and severe ROP, as well as racial and ethnic disparities in ROP occurrence. The study found that while ROP screening rates remained high, the overall incidence of ROP decreased from 31% in 2012 to 29% in 2021, with the most significant decrease observed among Asian and Hispanic individuals, indicating a narrowing of disparities in ROP incidence. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Uttarakhand, India, explored the use of transmittance sensors of peripheral pulse oximeters for forehead pulse oximetry in newborns. The research aimed to assess the effectiveness of this method in monitoring heart rate and saturation in neonates. The study found that the forehead pulse oximeter was able to accurately measure heart rate and SpO2 readings in all babies, with statistically significant differences noted in heart rate and saturation levels. The researchers suggest that using transmittance sensors over the forehead could help avoid erroneous readings due to motion artifacts, hypothermia, or shock in neonatal care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research in India compared the effectiveness of two modes of intermittent positive pressure ventilation in preterm babies who failed continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The study found that the duration of driving pressure support was similar between the two modes, continuous mechanical ventilation (CMV) and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). This research suggests that both NIPPV and CMV are viable options for providing respiratory support to preterm neonates with respiratory distress beyond CPAP. [Extracted from the article]

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis conducted in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria focused on neonatal disease outcomes, revealing that perinatal asphyxia and prematurity were the most common morbidities. The study, which included 656 neonatal admissions over a 2-year period, found a mortality rate of 22.9%, with perinatal asphyxia, prematurity, congenital anomalies, and neonatal sepsis identified as primary causes. The research underscores the importance of emergency care for critically ill newborns and the need for improved neonatal intensive care unit facilities in Nigerian tertiary institutions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Bristol compared the urinary metabolome of preterm-born children with different spirometry phenotypes of prematurity-associated obstructive lung disease (PLD). The research found similarities in metabolomic disturbances between PLD and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), suggesting that children with PLD may be at future risk of developing COPD. The study analyzed 242 identified metabolites and highlighted alterations in cellular metabolism and oxidative stress in children with PLD. This research provides valuable insights into the long-term consequences of preterm birth on lung health. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Shanghai Jiao Tong University examined the effectiveness of pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercises in reducing cesarean section rates and preventing pelvic floor dysfunction in primiparous women. The randomized controlled trial involved 200 participants who either performed the exercises or did not during pregnancy. Results showed that the exercise group had lower cesarean section rates and better postpartum pelvic floor function compared to the control group. This research, supported by the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission, highlights the potential benefits of incorporating specific exercises during pregnancy for improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a study on medical risk factors associated with listening difficulties in children. The study found that children with a history of prematurity, head injury, or high frequency hearing loss were at increased risk of experiencing listening difficulties. The research suggests that early intervention to improve communication skills could potentially lead to better long-term outcomes for these children. The study was conducted at a tertiary care children's hospital and focused on children aged 6-13 years old with normal hearing. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Washington have developed an interactive SMS intervention called CHV-NEO to support neonatal health in Kenya. This intervention aims to connect mothers with community health workers to provide essential newborn care and facilitate real-time dialogue. The study will evaluate the impact of CHV-NEO on clinical outcomes through a non-blinded cluster randomized controlled trial, with the goal of reducing neonatal mortality. The research is supported by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health And Human Development and is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark explored the feasibility of using telescreening for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The study aimed to determine if images captured by a non-physician healthcare professional using the ICON GO(R) widefield camera were sufficient for evaluating ROP changes without further examinations. The researchers found that telemedicine screening with the ICON GO(R) camera performed by a non-physician healthcare professional was feasible, with a high level of agreement between on-site and off-site ophthalmologists. The approach effectively identified children needing treatment, supporting the use of telescreening in ROP management. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Boston Children's Hospital discusses the use of timed topical dexamethasone eye drops to improve mitochondrial function and prevent severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The study found that administering these eye drops prior to peak neovessel formation prevented neovascularization in preterm infants at high risk for ROP. The treatment also suppressed neovascularization in a mouse model of ROP. The researchers suggest that this simple clinical approach could be used to prevent severe ROP. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Sao Paulo State University (UNESP) in Botucatu, Brazil have developed a checklist for neonatal perioperative care in cardiac surgery. The checklist was created through a two-stage process, including an integrative literature review and content validity assessment by seven experts in neonatology. The checklist consists of 57 structured items for pre-, intra-, and postoperative interventions in cardiac surgery, with care actions designated according to the legal competence of nursing professionals. The research concluded that the checklist achieved content validity and can be used in the perioperative period of cardiac surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland aimed to validate a French version of the City Birth Trauma Scale (partner version) (City BiTS (P)) to measure symptoms of childbirth-related posttraumatic stress disorder (CB-PTSD) in fathers. The study found that the two-factor model with birth-related symptoms (BRS) and general symptoms (GS) provided the best fit to the data, and the City BiTS-F (P) was found to be a reliable and validated tool to assess CB-PTSD symptoms in French-speaking partners. The researchers recommend using the total score in addition to the BRS and GS subscale scores. [Extracted from the article]

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis conducted by researchers at the University of Florida College of Medicine examined the outcomes of single fascicular transfer versus double fascicular transfer for the reanimation of elbow flexion in patients with brachial plexus injuries. The review included 58 studies with a total of 1388 patients. The findings showed that double fascicular transfer was associated with a greater likelihood of achieving Motor Research Council (MRC) grade 3 and 4 compared to single fascicular transfer, particularly in cases of C5-C6 injury and shorter duration of surgical delay. However, there was no significant difference in overall donor site morbidity between the two techniques. This research provides new insights into the surgical management of brachial plexus injuries. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the George Emil Palade University of Medicine in Targu Mures, Romania, explores the impact of maternal HIV infection on birth outcomes. The study compared perinatal outcomes between HIV-exposed, uninfected (HEU) children and HIV-unexposed, uninfected (HUU) children. The findings revealed significant differences in birth weight, length, and Apgar scores between the two groups, indicating potential neonatal health challenges for HIV-exposed children. The study emphasizes the need for tailored healthcare interventions and support for neonates born to HIV-positive mothers. This research contributes to our understanding of the complex relationship between maternal HIV infection and perinatal outcomes, providing guidance for healthcare professionals in delivering targeted care for this vulnerable population. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Dalian, China, has found that metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is more prevalent among pregnant women compared to the general population. This poses potential risks to both maternal and neonatal health. The study suggests that pregnant women with MAFLD have a higher risk of gestational hypertension and cesarean delivery, as well as an increased likelihood of delivering large-for-gestational-age infants, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Current treatment strategies for MAFLD focus on lifestyle modifications, but there is a need for the development of safe and effective pharmacological treatments specifically tailored for pregnant women. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences in Haryana, India, aimed to estimate the prevalence of pathological vaginal discharge (VD) in pregnant women and its impact on fetomaternal outcomes. The study found that 39.33% of enrolled women had pathological VD, with candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, aerobic vaginitis, and trichomoniasis being the main etiologies. These infections were significantly associated with pre-term delivery, pre-term pre-labor rupture of membranes, prematurity, and low birth weight neonates requiring neonatal intensive care unit care. The researchers suggest that routine screening for pathological VD should be introduced into standard antenatal care for all pregnant women. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Sao Paulo State University (UNESP) in Brazil explored the association between premature birth and air pollutants using machine learning techniques. The study compared two prediction models, one using fuzzy logic and the other using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The ANFIS model demonstrated superior performance, with higher correlation and coefficient of determination values, lower prediction errors, and greater precision. The findings suggest that integrating neural networks with ANFIS can improve modeling and have potential implications for public health policies aimed at reducing premature births and improving maternal and neonatal health. [Extracted from the article]

A study from Tufts University School of Medicine explores the impact of sex, race, and social determinants of health on neonatal outcomes. The research highlights the disparities in outcomes for male infants, as well as the disparities faced by minority populations compared to the white population. These differences are largely attributed to social and environmental factors rather than racial and ethnic differences. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of these factors to improve maternal-neonatal care and reduce disparities in outcomes. Healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities must work together to address these complex issues and improve neonatal outcomes for all infants. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at Babol University of Medical Sciences in Iran explores the association between abnormal umbilical cord coiling index (UCI) and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The study, which involved 400 women, found that women with gestational diabetes had a significantly higher likelihood of abnormal UCI compared to those with normal pregnancies. Additionally, a history of stillbirth was also associated with abnormal UCI. The researchers recommend including UCI examination as part of neonatal examinations to better understand maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. [Extracted from the article]