Hypothermia and early neonatal mortality in preterm infants.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate intervention practices associated with hypothermia at both 5 minutes after birth and at neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and to determine whether hypothermia at NICU admission is associated with early neonatal death in preterm infants. STUDY DESIGN: This prospective cohort included 1764 inborn neonates of 22-33 weeks without malformations admitted to 9 university NICUs from August 2010 through April 2012. All centers followed neonatal International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation recommendations for the stabilization and resuscitation in the delivery room (DR). Variables associated with hypothermia (axillary temperature <36.0 °C) 5 minutes after birth and at NICU admission, as well as those associated with early death, were analyzed by logistic regression. RESULTS: Hypothermia 5 minutes after birth and at NICU admission was noted in 44% and 51%, respectively, with 6% of early neonatal deaths. Adjusted for confounding variables, practices associated with hypothermia at 5 minutes after birth were DR temperature <25 °C (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.67-2.28), maternal temperature at delivery <36.0 °C (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.49-2.51), and use of plastic bag/wrap (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.40-0.70). The variables associated with hypothermia at NICU admission were DR temperature <25 °C (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.10-1.88), respiratory support with cold air in the DR (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.03-1.88) and during transport to NICU (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.08-2.13), and cap use (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.39-0.78). Hypothermia at NICU admission increased the chance of early neonatal death by 1.64-fold (95% CI 1.03-2.61). CONCLUSION: Simple interventions, such as maintaining DR temperature >25 °C, reducing maternal hypothermia prior to delivery, providing plastic bags/wraps and caps for the newly born infants, and using warm resuscitation gases, may decrease hypothermia at NICU admission and improve early neonatal survival.

The natural absence of RPA1N domain did not impair Leishmania amazonensis RPA-1 participation in DNA damage response and telomere protection.

We have previously shown that the subunit 1 of Leishmania amazonensis RPA (LaRPA-1) alone binds the G-rich telomeric strand and is structurally different from other RPA-1. It is analogous to telomere end-binding proteins described in model eukaryotes whose homologues were not identified in the protozoan´s genome. Here we show that LaRPA-1 is involved with damage response and telomere protection although it lacks the RPA1N domain involved with the binding with multiple checkpoint proteins. We induced DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in Leishmania using phleomycin. Damage was confirmed by TUNEL-positive nuclei and triggered a G1/S cell cycle arrest that was accompanied by nuclear accumulation of LaRPA-1 and RAD51 in the S phase of hydroxyurea-synchronized parasites. DSBs also increased the levels of RAD51 in non-synchronized parasites and of LaRPA-1 and RAD51 in the S phase of synchronized cells. More LaRPA-1 appeared immunoprecipitating telomeres in vivo and associated in a complex containing RAD51, although this interaction needs more investigation. RAD51 apparently co-localized with few telomeric clusters but it did not immunoprecipitate telomeric DNA. These findings suggest that LaRPA-1 and RAD51 work together in response to DNA DSBs and at telomeres, upon damage, LaRPA-1 works probably to prevent loss of single-stranded DNA and to assume a capping function.

Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in neonates receiving parenteral nutrition in the intensive care unit.

OBJECTIVE: The use of parenteral nutrition (PN) formulations that do not contain iodine can contribute to the deficiency of this mineral, potentially leading to hypothyroidism and, ultimately, neurocognitive impairments. This study aimed to evaluate TSH alterations in newborns receiving PN. METHODS: Retrospective study of neonatal intensive care unit patients receiving PN for > 15 days. Nutritional, anthropometric, and biochemical variables (TSH, T4, CRP) were analyzed. Hypothyroidism was defined by TSH > 10 mU/L. RESULTS: Two hundred newborns were evaluated [156 (78%) preterm, 31±5 weeks of gestational age, 112 (56%) with very or extremely low birth weight]. The median (IQR) hospital stay was 68 (42-110) days, PN duration was 31 (21-47) days, and 188 (94%) patients also received enteral nutrition. Overall, 143 (71.5%) newborns underwent at least one TSH measurement. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 10.5%. The Median PN duration in this group was 51 (34-109) days. Among those with hypothyroidism, 10 received Lugol's solution and six levothyroxine. Thirteen patients received prophylactic Lugol's solution with a median PN duration of 63 (48-197) days. TSH levels correlated positively with PN duration (r = 0.19, p = .02). CONCLUSIONS: The present data suggest that changes in TSH and T4 levels are present in neonates receiving PN for > 15 days, suggesting this population may be at risk for developing hypothyroidism. Therefore, the authors suggest that TSH and T4 measurements should be included as routine in neonatal patients receiving PN for > 15 days if PN formulations are not supplemented with iodine, and that iodine supplementation be provided as necessary.

Incidence of nasal pressure injury in preterm infants on nasal mask noninvasive ventilation.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of nasal injury in preterm newborns (NB) using the Neonatal Skin Condition Score within 7 days of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and to compare the incidence of injury in NB weighing ≥1,000 g and those weighing <1,000 g at the time of initiation of NIV support. METHODS: This is a prospective, observational study carried out in a neonatal intensive care unit of a public hospital in Rio Grande do Sul from July 2016 to January 2021. Patients were stratified into two groups at the time of NIV initiation: group 1 (weight ≥1,000 g) and group 2 (weight <1,000 g). To assess the condition of nasal injury, a rating scale called the Neonatal Skin Condition Score was applied during the first seven consecutive days on NIV. Kaplan-Meier, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: In total, 184 NB were evaluated. Nasal injury was reported in 55 (30%) NB. The risk of nasal injury was 74% higher in group 2 (19/45) than in group 1 (36/139) (HR: 1.74; 95%CI 0.99-3.03, p=0.048). CONCLUSION: The incidence of nasal injury in infants submitted to NIV by nasal mask was high, and the risk of this injury was greater in preterm infants weighing <1,000 g.

Risk Factors for cognitive, motor and language development of preterm children in the first year of life.

OBJECTIVE: To perform a longitudinal investigation of risk factors in premature infants' cognitive, motor, and language development. METHODS: Thirty-three preterm infants were assessed at 4, 8, and 12 months of corrected age, using the Bayley-III Scales. Parents completed questionnaires regarding development opportunities at home, parenting practices and knowledge. RESULTS: Significant associations were found (1) at 4-months between cognitive scores and family income, variety of stimuli, availability of toys, parenting practices and knowledge; language and parenting practices; and motor skills and parenting practices; (2) at 8-months between cognitive score and length of stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), gestational age, birth weight, toys, and parenting knowledge; language and toys; and motor skills and toys and parenting knowledge; (3) at 12-months between cognitive scores and length of stay in the NICU, family income, breastfeeding, toys, and parenting knowledge; language and income and toys; and motor scores and length of stay in the NICU, gestational age, income, stimuli, toys, and parenting knowledge. Regression analyses indicated that: for (1) cognitive development, stimulus variety explained 72% of the model variance at 4 months of age; time at the NICU explained 67 and 43% at 8 and 12 months of age, respectively, and breastfeeding time explained 41% of the model variance at 12 months; (2) for language development, family income explained 42% of the model variance at 12 months; and for motor development (3), time at the NICU explained 80% of the model variance at 12 months. CONCLUSIONS: The development over the first year of life is not explained by the severity of birth conditions and associated morbidities only, but also by parenting practices.

The Leishmania amazonensis TRF (TTAGGG repeat-binding factor) homologue binds and co-localizes with telomeres.

BACKGROUND: Telomeres are specialized structures at the end of chromosomes essential for maintaining genome stability and cell viability. The importance of telomeric proteins for telomere maintenance has increased our interest in the identification of homologues within the genus Leishmania. The mammalian TRF1 and TRF2 proteins, for example, bind double-stranded telomeres via a Myb-like DNA-binding domain and are involved with telomere length regulation and chromosome end protection. In addition, TRF2 can modulate the activity of several enzymes and influence the conformation of telomeric DNA. In this work, we identified and characterized a Leishmania protein (LaTRF) homologous to both mammalian TRF1 and TRF2. RESULTS: LaTRF was cloned using a PCR-based strategy. ClustalW and bl2seq sequence analysis showed that LaTRF shared sequence identity with the Trypanosoma brucei TRF (TbTRF) protein and had the same degree of sequence similarities with the dimerization (TRFH) and the canonical DNA-binding Myb-like domains of both mammalian TRFs. LaTRF was predicted to be an 82.5 kDa protein, indicating that it is double the size of the trypanosome TRF homologues. Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence combined with fluorescence in situ hybridization showed that LaTRF, similarly to hTRF2, is a nuclear protein that also associates with parasite telomeres. Native and full length LaTRF and a mutant bearing the putative Myb-like domain expressed in bacteria bound double-stranded telomeric DNA in vitro. Chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that LaTRF interacted specifically with telomeres in vivo. CONCLUSION: The nuclear localization of LaTRF, its association and co-localization with parasite telomeres and its high identity with TbTRF protein, support the hypothesis that LaTRF is a Leishmania telomeric protein.

Incidence of nasal pressure injury in preterm infants on nasal mask noninvasive ventilation / Incidência de lesão por pressão nasal em prematuros em ventilação não invasiva com máscara nasal

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of nasal injury in preterm newborns (NB) using the Neonatal Skin Condition Score within 7 days of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and to compare the incidence of injury in NB weighing ≥1,000 g and those weighing <1,000 g at the time of initiation of NIV support. Methods This is a prospective, observational study carried out in a neonatal intensive care unit of a public hospital in Rio Grande do Sul from July 2016 to January 2021. Patients were stratified into two groups at the time of NIV initiation: group 1 (weight ≥1,000 g) and group 2 (weight <1,000 g). To assess the condition of nasal injury, a rating scale called the Neonatal Skin Condition Score was applied during the first seven consecutive days on NIV. Kaplan-Meier, log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results In total, 184 NB were evaluated. Nasal injury was reported in 55 (30%) NB. The risk of nasal injury was 74% higher in group 2 (19/45) than in group 1 (36/139) (HR: 1.74; 95%CI 0.99-3.03, p=0.048). Conclusion The incidence of nasal injury in infants submitted to NIV by nasal mask was high, and the risk of this injury was greater in preterm infants weighing <1,000 g.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a incidência de lesão por pressão nasal em recém-nascidos (RN) pré-termos usando a Escala de Condição da Pele do Recém-Nascido durante sete dias de ventilação não invasiva (VNI) e comparar a incidência em RN ≥N.000 g e aqueles <1.000 g ao início da VNI. Métodos: Estudo observacional prospectivo realizado em uma Unidade Neonatal de Terapia Intensiva de um hospital público do Rio Grande do Sul, no período de julho de 2016 a janeiro de 2021. Os RN prematuros foram estratificados em dois grupos no momento do início da VNI: Grupo 1 (1u.000 g) e Grupo 2 (<1.000 g). O Neonatal Skin Condition Score foi aplicado durante os primeiros sete dias consecutivos de VNI. Curvas de Kaplan-Meier e teste Log-Rank e regressão de riscos proporcionais de Cox foram utilizados para estimar a razão de risco (HR) e intervalo de confiança (IC) de 95%. Resultados: Foram avaliados 184 RN. A lesão nasal foi relatada em 55 (30%) deles. O risco de lesão nasal foi 74% maior no Grupo 2 (n=19 em 45) do que no Grupo 1 (n=36 em 139) (HR=1,74; IC95% 0,99-3,03; p=0,048). Conclusão: A incidência de lesão nasal em neonatos submetidos à VNI por máscara nasal foi alta, e o risco dessa lesão foi maior em RN com peso <1.000 g.

Association between human breast milk and retinopathy of prematurity.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the possible protective effect of breast milk against retinopathy of prematurity by comparing the amount of breast milk received by patients who developed retinopathy of prematurity and those who did not and to determine both the required minimum amount of breast milk and the time of life during which neonates need to receive breast milk for this effect to be significant. METHODS: Cohort study of newborns with a birth weight of <1500 g or gestational age of <32 weeks, or both, born between January 2011 and October 2014 and hospitalized within the first 24 h of life in the Hospital Criança Conceição Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. RESULTS: The prevalence of retinopathy of prematurity of any degree was 31% (100 of 323 patients) and that of severe retinopathy of prematurity was of 9% (29 of 323 patients). The median amounts of breast milk received daily by patients with and without retinopathy of prematurity were 4.9 mL/kg (interquartile range, 0.3-15.4) and 10.2 mL/kg (1.5-25.5), respectively. The amount of breast milk received in the first 6 weeks of life was inversely associated with the incidence of both retinopathy of prematurity of any degree and severe retinopathy of prematurity in the univariate analyses. However, the statistical significance was maintained only during the sixth week of life in a per-period multivariate analysis controlling for confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS: Small amounts of breast milk are inadequate to prevent retinopathy of prematurity in premature newborns at risk for the disease.

Risk Factors for cognitive, motor and language development of preterm children in the first year of life / Fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento cognitivo, motor e de linguagem ao longo do primeiro ano de vida de crianças nascidas prematuras

Abstract Objective: To perform a longitudinal investigation of risk factors in premature infants' cognitive, motor, and language development. Methods: Thirty-three preterm infants were assessed at 4, 8, and 12 months of corrected age, using the Bayley-III Scales. Parents completed questionnaires regarding development opportunities at home, parenting practices and knowledge. Results: Significant associations were found (1) at 4-months between cognitive scores and family income, variety of stimuli, availability of toys, parenting practices and knowledge; language and parenting practices; and motor skills and parenting practices; (2) at 8-months between cognitive score and length of stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), gestational age, birth weight, toys, and parenting knowledge; language and toys; and motor skills and toys and parenting knowledge; (3) at 12-months between cognitive scores and length of stay in the NICU, family income, breastfeeding, toys, and parenting knowledge; language and income and toys; and motor scores and length of stay in the NICU, gestational age, income, stimuli, toys, and parenting knowledge. Regression analyses indicated that: for (1) cognitive development, stimulus variety explained 72% of the model variance at 4 months of age; time at the NICU explained 67 and 43% at 8 and 12 months of age, respectively, and breastfeeding time explained 41% of the model variance at 12 months; (2) for language development, family income explained 42% of the model variance at 12 months; and for motor development (3), time at the NICU explained 80% of the model variance at 12 months. Conclusions: The development over the first year of life is not explained by the severity of birth conditions and associated morbidities only, but also by parenting practices.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar longitudinalmente os fatores de risco no desenvolvimento cognitivo, motor e de linguagem de prematuros. Métodos: Participaram 33 crianças prematuras avaliadas aos quatro, oito e 12 meses de idade corrigida, com as escalas Bayley III. Os pais completaram questionários referentes às oportunidades do lar, práticas e conhecimento parentais. Resultados: Associações significantes foram encontradas: (1) aos quatro meses, entre os escores cognitivos e renda familiar, variedade de estímulos, disponibilidade de brinquedos, práticas e conhecimento parental; e linguagem e motor com conhecimento parental; (2) aos oito meses, entre os escores cognitivos e tempo de Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI), idade gestacional, peso ao nascer, brinquedos e conhecimento parental; linguagem e brinquedos; e motor e brinquedos e conhecimento parental; (3) aos 12 meses, entre os escores cognitivos com o tempo de UTI, renda, meses de amamentação, brinquedos e conhecimento parental; linguagem e renda e brinquedos; e motor e idade gestacional, tempo de UTI, renda, estimulação, brinquedos e conhecimento parental. Análises de regressão indicaram que: para o desenvolvimento (1) cognitivo, a variedade de estímulos explicou 72% da variância do modelo aos quatro meses; o tempo de UTI explicou 67 e 43% aos oito e 12 meses respectivamente, e o tempo de amamentação explicou 41% da variância do modelo aos 12 meses; (2) para o desenvolvimento da linguagem, a renda familiar explicou 42% da variância do modelo aos 12 meses; e para o desenvolvimento (3) motor, o tempo de UTI explicou 80% da variância do modelo aos 12 meses. Conclusões: O desenvolvimento no primeiro ano de vida não é explicado apenas pela gravidade ao nascer e pelas morbidades clínicas associadas, mas também pelas práticas parentais.

Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in neonates receiving parenteral nutrition in the intensive care unit

Abstract Objective: The use of parenteral nutrition (PN) formulations that do not contain iodine can contribute to the deficiency of this mineral, potentially leading to hypothyroidism and, ultimately, neurocognitive impairments. This study aimed to evaluate TSH alterations in newborns receiving PN. Methods: Retrospective study of neonatal intensive care unit patients receiving PN for > 15 days. Nutritional, anthropometric, and biochemical variables (TSH, T4, CRP) were analyzed. Hypothyroidism was defined by TSH > 10 mU/L. Results: Two hundred newborns were evaluated [156 (78%) preterm, 31±5 weeks of gestational age, 112 (56%) with very or extremely low birth weight]. The median (IQR) hospital stay was 68 (42-110) days, PN duration was 31 (21-47) days, and 188 (94%) patients also received enteral nutrition. Overall, 143 (71.5%) newborns underwent at least one TSH measurement. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 10.5%. The Median PN duration in this group was 51 (34-109) days. Among those with hypothyroidism, 10 received Lugol's solution and six levothyroxine. Thirteen patients received prophylactic Lugol's solution with a median PN duration of 63 (48-197) days. TSH levels correlated positively with PN duration (r = 0.19, p = .02). Conclusions: The present data suggest that changes in TSH and T4 levels are present in neonates receiving PN for > 15 days, suggesting this population may be at risk for developing hypothyroid-ism. Therefore, the authors suggest that TSH and T4 measurements should be included as routine in neonatal patients receiving PN for > 15 days if PN formulations are not supplemented with iodine, and that iodine supplementation be provided as necessary.

Neutrophils, eosinophils, and mast cells in the intestinal wall of dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a disease caused by the protozoa Leishmania infantum and can cause an inflammatory reaction in the gastrointestinal tract, however the role of granulocytic cells (neutrophils, eosinophils, and mast cells) in the intestine of dogs infected is not fully understood. We performed a quantitative analysis these cells in the intestinal wall of dogs with canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL). Twenty dogs were assigned to one of three groups: group 1 (G1, n=8), dogs with CVL and L. infantum amastigotes in the intestine; group 2 (G2, n=9), dogs with CVL but without intestinal amastigotes; and group 3 (G3, n=3), uninfected dogs (control group). Granulocytic cells were counted in the crypt-villus unit (mucosa), submucosa, and muscle layer of the intestinal mucosa. Cell counts were higher in the intestinal wall of dogs from G2 followed by G1 and G3 (p≤0.05). In G1, there was a low inverse correlation between parasite burden of the small intestine and granulocyte counts (r= -0.1, p≤0.01). However, in G2 dogs, mast cell and eosinophil numbers showed positive correlation (r=0.85, p≤0.01). The granulocytic cell hyperplasia observed in the intestine of L. infantum-infected dogs suggests that these cells may be involved in the cell-mediated immune response for parasite elimination.

T lymphocytes and macrophages in the intestinal tissues of dogs infected with Leishmania infantum.

This study was about a semi-quantitative analysis of T lymphocytes (CD4+ and CD8+, FoxP3+ regulatory T cells), and macrophages in the gut wall of dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum. Thirteen dogs were divided into three groups: group 1 (G1, n=5), dogs with canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) and infected with L. infantum amastigotes in the intestine; group 2 (G2, n=5), dogs with CVL but without intestinal amastigotes; and group 3 (G3, n=3), uninfected dogs (control group). There was no significant difference (p ≥ 0.05) on CD4+ and Treg cell numbers among the groups, whereas the levels of CD8+ T cells and macrophages were significantly higher in dogs from G1 group than in G2 and G3 (p ≤ 0.05), especially in intestinal segments with high parasite burden. Parasite burden correlated positively with levels of CD8+ T cells and macrophages (p ≤ 0.05), but was inversely correlated to levels of CD4+ T lymphocytes and FoxP3+ Treg cells. In conclusion, in the intestine of dogs with CVL, the increase of CD8+ T cells and macrophages population associated with high parasite burdens, but no changes of CD4+ T cells and FoxP3+ Treg cells suggest a possible immunoregulation by the parasite not dependent on Treg cells.

Comparison of two dose regimens of ibuprofen for the closure of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm newborns.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of intravenous ibuprofen at high (20-10-10mg/kg/dose) and low doses (10-5-5mg/kg/dose) the closure of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm newborns. METHODS: A cohort study with historical control of newborns that received high- and low-dose intravenous ibuprofen, from 2010 to 2013 in a neonatal intensive care unit, for closure of the patent ductus arteriosus, documented by echocardiography. Secondary outcomes included the number of ibuprofen cycles, incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, changes in renal function, and death. RESULTS: Seventy-seven patients received three doses of ibuprofen for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus, with 33 receiving high-dose and 44 low-dose therapy. The ductus closed after the first cycle in 25 (56.8%) low-dose patients and in 17 (51.5%) high-dose patients (p>0.99). Sixteen patients received a second cycle of ibuprofen, and the ductus closed in 50% after low-dose and in 60% after high-dose therapy (p>0.99). Seven patients required surgery for ductus closure, 13.6% in the low-dose group and 3% in the high-dose group (p=0.22). Thirty-nine patients developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia, 50% in the low-dose group and 51.5% in the high-dose group (p>0.99). Twenty-two (50%) low-dose patients died vs. 15 (45.5%) high-dose patients (p=0.86). CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in closure of the ductus arteriosus or occurrence of adverse effects between the two dose regimens.

Plasma cytokine levels fall in preterm newborn infants on nasal CPAP with early respiratory distress.

INTRODUCTION: Early nCPAP seems to prevent ventilator-induced lung injury in humans, although the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this beneficial effect have not been clarified yet. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate plasma levels IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α immediately before the start of nCPAP and 2 hours later in preterm infants. METHODS: Prospective cohort including preterm infants with 28 to 35 weeks gestational age with moderate respiratory distress requiring nCPAP. Extreme preemies, newborns with malformations, congenital infections, sepsis, surfactant treatment, and receiving ventilatory support in the delivery room were excluded. Blood samples were collected right before and 2 hours after the start of nCPAP. RESULTS: 23 preterm infants (birth weight 1851±403 grams; GA 32.3±1.7 weeks) were treated with nCPAP. IL-1ß, IL-10, TNF-α levels were similar, IL-8 levels were reduced in 18/23 preterm infants and a significant decrease in IL-6 levels was observed after 2 hours of nCPAP. All newborns whose mothers received antenatal steroids had lower cytokine levels at the onset of nCPAP than those whose mothers didn't receive it; this effect was not sustained after 2 hours of nCPAP. CONCLUSION: Early use nCPAP is not associated with rising of plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines and it seems to be a less harmful respiratory strategy for preterm with moderate respiratory distress.

Biochemical predictors for metabolic syndrome in preterm infants according to weight ratio

ABSTRACT Objective Prematurity and low birth weight predispose preterm infants to cardiovascular disease in later life. Is the metabolic profile of these children impacted by the relation between birth weight and gestational age (GA)? This study aimed to evaluate whether the relationship between birth weight and GA of preterm infants has a positive correlation with the metabolic profile from birth to the sixth month of corrected age. Subjects and methods This is a longitudinal, prospective study with a cohort of 70 preterm and 54 term infants, who were enrolled in the study and shared into two groups: Appropriate for GA (AGA) and Small for GA (SGA), both classified at birth by Fenton and Kim curves. Longitudinal evaluation of anthropometry measures and blood samples of total cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, and insulin were collected at birth, NICU discharge, and the sixth month of corrected age. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical analysis (ANOVA, Fisher test, Shapiro-Wilk, and Cochran test). The effect size was 0.15, power was 0.92, and confidence interval 95%. Results No significant statistical differences were observed in relation to biochemical tests between AGA and SGA groups. However, a significant increase in triglyceride results above the reference values for age in the SGA group was observed throughout the follow-up. Conclusions Changes observed in the preterm infant metabolic profile show no correlation with adequacy of birth weight. Preterm lipid profile requires continuous evaluation at follow-up, due to the increased cardiovascular risk in later life.

[Levels of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the cerebrospinal fluid of full-term newborns with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy]. / Níveis de interleucina-6 e fator de necrose tumoral-alfa no liquor de recém-nascidos a termo com encefalopatia hipóxico-isquêmica.

OBJECTIVE: To determine cerebrospinal fluid levels of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in full-term infants with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, comparing with control infants. METHODS: Controlled, prospective study, performed between July 1999 and October 2001 with two groups of full-term newborns: 20 controls with no sepsis and/or meningitis and Apgar score > or =9 at first and fifth minutes; and cases, 15 asphyxiated full-term newborns with Apgar < or =4 and < or =6 at first and fifth minutes, umbilical blood cord pH<7.20 and/or umbilical arterial blood lactate>3.0 mmol/L, and requiring positive pressure ventilation for at least 2 minutes after birth. Cerebrospinal fluid samples were collected within 48 hours of birth for determination of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha by enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS: Groups were similar concerning birthweight, gestational age, type of delivery and mean time required for cerebrospinal fluid sample collection. The samples were collected at mean with 17 hours of life. The medians cerebrospinal fluid levels in asphyxiated newborn infants were: 157.5 pg/ml for interleukin-6 and 14.7 pg/ml for tumor necrosis factor-alpha, significantly higher than the controls (interleukin-6: 4.1 pg/ml and tumor necrosis factor-alpha: 0.16 pg/ml). CONCLUSIONS: Full-term newborns with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy present higher cerebrospinal fluid interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels than the controls, possibly because of the local cerebral production of these cytokines, especially tumor necrosis factor-alpha. These results support a recommendation for future studies with brain blockers of the actions of these cytokines for neuroprotective strategies.

Evidence of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum infection in dogs from Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, based on immunochromatographic dual-path platform (DPP®) and PCR assays.

In Brazil, domestic dogs are branded as the primary reservoir for zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis, due to the clear positive correlation observed between human and canine infection rates. This study aimed to carry out a serological survey of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in dogs housed at a public kennel in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, using the immunochromatographic TR DPP® CVL rapid test. Additionally, conventional and/or real time PCR assay was used to detect and confirm L. infantum infection in the DPP positive dogs only. Of the 400 dogs studied, most did not present clinical signs for CVL (p < 0.05), and fifteen (3.8%) were seropositive in the DPP test. There was no statistically significant difference between the DPP seropositive dogs and the clinical signs of the disease (p > 0.05). Both conventional and real time PCR tests confirmed L. infantum infection in nine (75.0%) of the twelve DPP seropositive dogs that remained alive during the follow-up period. This study is the first seroepidemiologic survey of CVL held in the city of Juiz de Fora, and the results reinforce the idea that this disease is currently in a process of expansion and urbanization in Brazil. Furthermore, this study highlights the use of the DPP test as an alternative for diagnosing CVL in large and mid-sized cities, due to its ease of implementation.

Association between human breast milk and retinopathy of prematurity / Associação entre ingesta de leite materno e desenvolvimento de retinopatia da prematuridade

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the possible protective effect of breast milk against retinopathy of prematurity by comparing the amount of breast milk received by patients who developed retinopathy of prematurity and those who did not and to determine both the required minimum amount of breast milk and the time of life during which neonates need to receive breast milk for this effect to be significant. Methods: Cohort study of newborns with a birth weight of <1500 g or gestational age of <32 weeks, or both, born between January 2011 and October 2014 and hospitalized within the first 24 h of life in the Hospital Criança Conceição Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. Results: The prevalence of retinopathy of prematurity of any degree was 31% (100 of 323 patients) and that of severe retinopathy of prematurity was of 9% (29 of 323 patients). The median amounts of breast milk received daily by patients with and without retinopathy of prematurity were 4.9 mL/kg (interquartile range, 0.3-15.4) and 10.2 mL/kg (1.5-25.5), respectively. The amount of breast milk received in the first 6 weeks of life was inversely associated with the incidence of both retinopathy of prematurity of any degree and severe retinopathy of prematurity in the univariate analyses. However, the statistical significance was maintained only during the sixth week of life in a per-period multivariate analysis controlling for confounding factors. Conclusions: Small amounts of breast milk are inadequate to prevent retinopathy of prematurity in premature newborns at risk for the disease.

RESUMO Objetivos: Avaliar o possível efeito protetor do leite materno contra a retinopatia da prematuridade, através da comparação da quantidade de leite materno recebida entre os pacientes que desenvolveram retinopatia da prematuridade e aqueles livres da doença. Tentar determinar a quantidade mínima necessária e o momento em que o recém-nascido precisa receber o leite materno para que esse efeito seja significativo. Métodos: Estudo de coorte observacional incluindo recém-nascidos com peso de nascimento inferior a 1500 gramas e/ou com idade gestacional inferior a 32 semanas, nascidos no período de janeiro de 2011 a outubro de 2014 e internados nas primeiras 24 horas de vida na UTI Neonatal do Hospital da Criança Conceição em Porto Alegre. Resultados: A prevalência da retinopatia da prematuridade em qualquer grau foi de 31% (100 casos em 323 pacientes) e a de retinopatia da prematuridade grave foi de 9% (29 casos em 323 pacientes). A mediana da quantidade de leite materno recebida pelos pacientes foi de 10,2 mL/kg/dia entre os pacientes sem retinopatia da prematuridade (amplitude interquartil 1,5-25,5) e de 4,9 mL/kg/dia entre os pacientes com retinopatia da prematuridade (0,3-15,4). A quantidade de leite materno recebida nas primeiras seis semanas de vida foi inversamente associada à incidência de retinopatia da prematuridade em qualquer grau e de retinopatia da prematuridade grave nas análises univariadas, mas a significância estatística não se manteve após análise multivariada para controle de fatores confundidores na maioria dos períodos avaliados, exceto na sexta semana de vida. Conclusão: Pequenas quantidades de leite materno não são suficientes para prevenção de retinopatia da prematuridade em recém-nascidos com de risco para a doença.

Neutrophils, eosinophils, and mast cells in the intestinal wall of dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum / Neutrófilos, eosinófilos e mastócitos na parede intestinal de cães naturalmente infectados com Leishmania infantum

Abstract Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a disease caused by the protozoa Leishmania infantum and can cause an inflammatory reaction in the gastrointestinal tract, however the role of granulocytic cells (neutrophils, eosinophils, and mast cells) in the intestine of dogs infected is not fully understood. We performed a quantitative analysis these cells in the intestinal wall of dogs with canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL). Twenty dogs were assigned to one of three groups: group 1 (G1, n=8), dogs with CVL and L. infantum amastigotes in the intestine; group 2 (G2, n=9), dogs with CVL but without intestinal amastigotes; and group 3 (G3, n=3), uninfected dogs (control group). Granulocytic cells were counted in the crypt-villus unit (mucosa), submucosa, and muscle layer of the intestinal mucosa. Cell counts were higher in the intestinal wall of dogs from G2 followed by G1 and G3 (p≤0.05). In G1, there was a low inverse correlation between parasite burden of the small intestine and granulocyte counts (r= -0.1, p≤0.01). However, in G2 dogs, mast cell and eosinophil numbers showed positive correlation (r=0.85, p≤0.01). The granulocytic cell hyperplasia observed in the intestine of L. infantum-infected dogs suggests that these cells may be involved in the cell-mediated immune response for parasite elimination.

Resumo A leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma doença causada pelo protozoário Leishmania infantum e pode causar uma reação inflamatória no trato gastrointestinal, entretanto o papel das células granulocíticas (neutrófilos, eosinófilos e mastócitos) no intestino de cães infectados não é totalmente compreendido. Neste estudo realizamos uma análise quantitativa dessas células na parede intestinal de cães com LV. Vinte cães foram distribuídos em três grupos: grupo 1 (G1, n=8), cães com LV e amastigotas de L. infantum no intestino; grupo 2 (G2, n=9), cães com LV, mas sem amastigotas intestinais; e grupo 3 (G3, n=3), não infectados (grupo controle). Células granulocíticas foram contadas na unidade cripta-vilo (mucosa), submucosa e camada muscular da mucosa intestinal. Observamos hiperplasia dessas células na parede intestinal de cães do G2, seguidas das G1 em relação ao G3 (p≤0,05). No G1, houve uma correlação inversa baixa entre a carga parasitária do intestino delgado e a contagem de granulócitos (r= -0,1; p≤0,01). No entanto, nos cães do G2, os números de mastócitos e eosinófilos apresentaram correlação positiva (r=0,85; p≤0,01). A hiperplasia de células granulocíticas observada no intestino de cães infectados por L. infantum sugere que essas células podem estar envolvidas na resposta imune mediada por células para a eliminação do parasita.