Clinical characteristics of nephrocalcinosis in preterm infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical characteristics and risk factors of nephrocalcinosis in preterm infants.Methods:From March 2021 to August 2021, all preterm infants admitted to NICU of our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. The infants were assigned into nephrocalcinosis group and non-nephrocalcinosis group according to urinary tract ultrasound. Clinical data including gestational age, birth weight(BW), nutritional support strategy and complications were reviewed.Results:A total of 40 preterm infants (<34 weeks) were enrolled. 9 cases were in the nephrocalcinosis group and 31 cases in the non-nephrocalcinosis group. The nephrocalcinosis group had lower BW[(1 167±214) g vs.(1 586±215) g], higher calcium [6.9 (5.1, 8.7) g vs.3.3 (2.1, 6.8) g] and vitamin D intake [3.2(2.5, 4.2)×10 4U vs.1.7(1.1, 3.2)×10 4U] during hospitalization. No significant differences existed between the two groups on the following items:blood calcium and phosphate, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, feeding strategy, time to reach full enteral feeding(TFF), furosemide dosage and respiratory support duration ( P>0.05). In the nephrocalcinosis group, the median age of diagnosing nephrocalcinosis was 40.0(30.0, 52.5)d after birth. 5 cases showed bilateral nephrocalcinosis. 5 cases in the nephrocalcinosis group received renal tubule function examination,4 cases had increased urine β2 microglobulin and 2 cases had increased urine α1 microglobulin. 7 cases had elevated urine calcium in the nephrocalcinosis group. Follow-up showed that nephrocalcinosis disappeared 3-9 months after birth. Conclusions:BW, total calcium and vitamin D intake are risk factors for nephrocalcinosis in preterm infants. Increased urine β2 microglobulin and calcium levels are common co-morbidities in preterm infants with nephrocalcinosis.

Longitudinal extrauterine growth restriction in extremely preterm infants: current status and prediction model / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the current status of longitudinal extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) in extremely preterm infants (EPIs) and to develop a prediction model based on clinical data from multiple NICUs.Methods:From January 2017 to December 2018, EPIs admitted to 32 NICUs in North China were retrospectively studied. Their general conditions, nutritional support, complications during hospitalization and weight changes were reviewed. Weight loss between birth and discharge > 1SD was defined as longitudinal EUGR. The EPIs were assigned into longitudinal EUGR group and non-EUGR group and their nutritional support and weight changes were compared. The EPIs were randomly assigned into the training dataset and the validation dataset with a ratio of 7∶3. Univariate Cox regression analysis and multiple regression analysis were used in the training dataset to select the independent predictive factors. The best-fitting Nomogram model predicting longitudinal EUGR was established based on Akaike Information Criterion. The model was evaluated for discrimination efficacy, calibration and clinical decision curve analysis.Results:A total of 436 EPIs were included in this study, with a mean gestational age of (26.9±0.9) weeks and a birth weight of (989±171) g. The incidence of longitudinal EUGR was 82.3%(359/436). Seven variables (birth weight Z-score, weight loss, weight growth velocity, the proportion of breast milk ≥75% within 3 d before discharge, invasive mechanical ventilation ≥7 d, maternal antenatal corticosteroids use and bronchopulmonary dysplasia) were selected to establish the prediction model. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the training dataset and the validation dataset were 0.870 (95% CI 0.820-0.920) and 0.879 (95% CI 0.815-0.942), suggesting good discrimination efficacy. The calibration curve indicated a good fit of the model ( P>0.05). The decision curve analysis showed positive net benefits at all thresholds. Conclusions:Currently, EPIs have a high incidence of longitudinal EUGR. The prediction model is helpful for early identification and intervention for EPIs with higher risks of longitudinal EUGR. It is necessary to expand the sample size and conduct prospective studies to optimize and validate the prediction model in the future.

Factors Influencing The Language Development of Preterm Infants and Their Intervention Strategies / 生物化学与生物物理进展

Preterm infants, born before 37 weeks of gestation, represent a significant portion of newborns globally, many of whom experiencing long-term neurodevelopmental disorders. Language development anomalies are common among preterm infants, often leading to deficits in vocabulary, grammar, phonetics, and semantics, which can persist into adolescence and adulthood. Given these complexities, these developmental challenges necessitate a deeper understanding of the influencing factors and the importance of early intervention. Biological factors such as the degree of prematurity, birth weight, and gender significantly impact language development. Specifically, shorter gestational age and lower birth weight are associated with language difficulties, manifesting in restricted vocabulary, syntax, and grammatical complexity. In addition, the severity of neonatal illnesses, including intracranial hemorrhage, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia, critically impact cognitive and language development. Equally important, sensory systems, particularly vision and hearing, are also crucial for language acquisition, for example, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) may increase the risk of language disorders. Environmental factors also play a vital role in language development of preterm infants. The environment within neonatal intensive care units (NICU), while important for the survival of preterm infants, can inadvertently impose sensory challenges, thereby influencing neurodevelopmental outcomes, including language skills. Beyond the NICU environment, the domestic setting and familial interactions emerge as crucial determinants. Variables such as the parental educational background and socioeconomic status substantially influence the extent and quality of language exposure, thus shaping the linguistic development of preterm infants. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive early intervention strategies. This includes deploying a range of early evaluation tools, encompassing standardized language development scales and observational techniques, to promptly identify infants at risk of language delays. Recent advances in non-invasive brain imaging techniques, such as event-related potentials and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have opened new horizons in early detection and intervention planning, providing critical insights into the neurodevelopmental status of these infants. Intervention strategies are diverse and integrate physiological and neurological approaches, environmental modifications, and family-centric practices. Physiologically, addressing sensory impairments and nutritional needs is fundamental to fostering robust language development. This involves interventions like sensory stimulation therapies and nutritional supplements rich in essential brain-development nutrients. Additionally, environmental optimization, particularly in NICU settings, to replicate the protective conditions of womb is crucial for enhancing language learning. Strategies include controlled auditory and visual stimulation and implementing developmental care models. Furthermore, family involvement is equally important. Encouraging active parental engagement and fostering language-enriched interactions are crucial. Notably, innovative approaches such as music therapy have shown promise in enhancing auditory processing and language skills. These interventions utilize the infant brain’s neuroplasticity, combining auditory stimulation with social interaction, thereby enriching the developmental environment for preterm infants. In summary, the language development in preterm infants is shaped by an intricate interplay of biological and environmental factors, requiring a multifaceted and early intervention approach. As our understanding evolves, the integration of medical, educational, and social services will be critical in providing holistic support for the healthy development of these infants. Future research efforts should aim to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of language development in preterm infants and to refine intervention strategies to ensure more effective long-term outcomes.

Status quo of preterm infants′ feeding difficulties at weaning and self-feeding transition stage and its influencing factors / 中国儿童保健杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the prevalence and influencing factors of feeding difficulties in preterm infants at weaning and self-feeding transition stage, so as to provide a scientific basis for the management of feeding preterm infants. 【Methods】 Preterm infants at corrected age of 6 - 24 months were recruited from the Department of Child Health of five maternal and child health hospital of Chengdu from April to May 2021, and were surveyed by using the Chinese Version of the Montreal Children Hospital Feeding Scale (MCF-FS) and the self-designed questionnaire on the influencing factors of feeding difficulties. Then the status quo of feeding difficulties and its influencing factors were analyzed. 【Results】 The prevalence rate of feeding difficulties in 231 preterm infants was 32%. Among them, the prevalence rate of mild, moderate and severe feeding difficulties was 15.2%, 7.8% and 9.1%, respectively. Binary Logistic stepwise regression analysis indicated that food allergy (OR=4.253, 95%CI: 1.430 - 12.649), anxious mood of caregivers (OR=6.064, 95%CI: 2.998 - 12.268), tease or chase during eating(OR=2.873, 95%CI: 1.382 - 5.970), recreational activities at eating (OR=2.328, 95%CI: 1.115 - 4.860), and forced feeding (OR=2.772, 95%CI: 1.239 - 6.198) were positively associated with feeding difficulty of preterm infants(P<0.05). 【Conclusion】 Feeding difficulties in the weaning and self-feeding transition period of preterm infants are prevalent, so the guidance should focus on premature infants with food allergy, anxious caregivers and improper feeding behaviors, and appropriate interventions should be taken to promote scientific feeding.

Differences in exosome miRNAs in human breast milk between preterm and full-term infants / 中国儿童保健杂志

【Objective】 To evaluate the differential miRNA expression of breast milk exosome in premature and full-term groups, and to analyze the regulatory pathways by bioinformatics, so as to provide guidance and scientific basis for the growth and development of premature infants and the prevention and treatment of related diseases. 【Methods】 From August 2020 to June 2021, breast milk samples from 13 premature (premate group) and 9 full-term infants(full-term group) in the Department of Child Health Care of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University were collected to extract exosomes. The miRNAs of two groups of breast milk exosomes were sequenced by high-throughput sequencing. According to the sequencing results, miRNA expression profiles of milk exosome were analyzed. Biological function software was used to carry out GO and KEGG pathway analysis of differential miRNA. 【Results】 The expression of miRNA in human milk exosomes was rich, especially hsa-miR-148a-3p,hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-let-7g-5p, hsa-miR-22-3p, hsa-miR-99a-5p, hsa-miR-200, hsa-miR-146b-5p and hsa-miR-26a-5p were relatively high expressed in preterm group and full-term group. Differential expression analysis showed that compared with full-term infant breast milk, 7 miRNAs were up-regulated(log2|fold change|=2.803, 2.714, 1.632, 2.360, 1.350, 3.387, 2.137, respectively), and 5 miRNAs were down-regulated(log2|fold change|=-2.553, -2.197, -2.771, -1.395, -1.136, respectively)(|fold change>2|, P<0.05) in breast milk for preterm infants. In these differential expressed miRNAs, down-regulated miR-29b(P=0.001) and up-regulated miR-133a-3p(P=0.004) were associated with inflammation, and up-regulated miR-126-5p(P=0.021) and miR-126-3p(P=0.041) were associated with lipid metabolism. The fatty acid biosynthesis pathway was obviously enriched in preterm group. MiR-7-5p, miR-29b-3p and miR-100-5p played a role in the fatty acid synthesis pathway. 【Conclusions】 Exosomal miRNAs are rich in breast milk, and have significant differences between preterm and full-term infants′ mothers. The differentially expressed miRNA in preterm infants treast milk may be related to inflammation and promote the growth and development of preterm infants through the fatty acid biosynthesis pathway.

Risk Factors and Prevention of Late-onset Bacterial Sepsis in Very Preterm Infants / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical features and high risk of very preterm infants with late-onset bacterial sepsis，so as to propose feasible prevention and treatment suggestions． MethodsTotally 94 very preterm infants with late-onset bacterial sepsis from the Neonatology Department of Women’s Hospital of Jiangnan University were recruited from February， 2012 to January， 2024. Their clinical data， including the perinatal situation， clinical symptoms， pathogens， risk factors and treatment， were collected and analyzed. ResultsThe incidence rate of very preterm infants with late-onset bacterial sepsis were 8.40 for 100 live birth babies. The major pathogens of the infections among these very premature infants included gram-positive bacteria （71.1%）. Logistic regression analysis showed that long term（≥7 d）use of antibiotics， invasive mechanical ventilation， indwelling central venous catheter（≥7 d）， and vaginal delivery were high risk factors of very preterm infants with late-onset bacterial sepsis， the relative risk （OR） values were 2.787， 4.243， 3.033 and 2.174， respectively. ConclusionThe gram-positive bacteria are the main pathogens of late-onset bacterial sepsis in very preterm infants. Long term（≥7 d）use of antibiotics， invasive mechanical ventilation， indwelling central venous catheter（≥7 d）and vaginal delivery are high risk factors of very preterm infants with late-onset bacterial sepsis. The incidence of late-onset bacterial sepsis in very preterm infants can be reduced by strengthening perinatal management， shortening the time of antibiotic application and reducing invasive operations.

Late effects of caffeine use on sleep of infants born prematurely / Efeitos tardios do uso de cafeína no sono de crianças nascidas prematuras

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether the therapeutic use of caffeine for premature newborns is associated with changes in sleep habits and the presence of obstructive sleep apnea in childhood. Methods: This is a cross-sectional single-center study in which the caretakers of 87 children aged 5-10 years, born full-term or preterm, treated or not with caffeine in the neonatal period, answered questionnaires to screen for obstructive sleep apnea (Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Screening Tool [PosaST]) and to characterize the sleep habits (Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire [CSHQ]) of their children. ANOVA and linear regression tests were performed to verify possible differences between the groups. Results: Children born prematurely who were treated with caffeine woke up significantly later on weekdays than those born at term (09h±00h58 and 07h43±1h15, respectively, p=0.022) and had longer total daily sleep time also compared to those born at term (10h24±1h08 and 09h29±1h08, respectively, p<0.001). There was no significant difference between the three groups in overall PosaST and CSHQ scores. Conclusions: Caffeine use in the neonatal period did not impair sleep habits later in life and did not lead to increased obstructive sleep apnea scores in prematurely born children compared to those born at term.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar se o uso terapêutico de cafeína para recém-nascidos prematuros se associa a alterações nos hábitos de sono e à presença de apneia obstrutiva do sono na infância. Métodos: Este é um estudo unicêntrico transversal no qual os responsáveis por 87 crianças com idades entre cinco e dez anos, nascidas a termo ou pré-termo e tratadas ou não com cafeína no período neonatal responderam a questionários para triagem de apneia obstrutiva do sono (Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Screening Tool - PosaST) e para a caracterização dos hábitos de sono (Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire - CSHQ) de seus filhos. Foram realizados testes de variância (ANOVA) e de regressão linear para verificar possíveis diferenças entre os grupos. Resultados: As crianças nascidas prematuras que foram tratadas com cafeína acordaram significativamente mais tarde nos dias de semana do que as nascidas a termo (09h±00h58 e 07h43±1h15, respectivamente, p=0,022) e tiveram maior tempo total de sono diário também comparadas às nascidas a termo (10h24±1h08 e 09h29±1h08, respectivamente, p<0,001). Não houve diferença significativa entre os três grupos na pontuação geral dos questionários PosaST e CSHQ. Conclusões: O uso de cafeína no período neonatal não prejudicou tardiamente os hábitos de sono e não levou ao aumento dos escores de apneia obstrutiva do sono de crianças nascidas prematuras quando comparadas com crianças nascidas a termo.

Fetal hemoglobin, blood transfusion, and retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants: An observational, prospective study

Purpose: The objective of this study was to identify the association between fetal hemoglobin (HbF) concentration, blood transfusion, and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants. Methods: This was an observational, prospective study. A total of 410 preterm infants born with <36 weeks gestational age and <2.0 kg birth weight in a tertiary care center of central India for a period of 1 year were included in this study. Clinical data were obtained from case notes. HbF of infants was measured in the blood sample using high?performance liquid chromatography at the first visit and after 1 month follow?up and was analyzed statistically. Dilated fundus examination was done as per ROP screening guidelines, and ROP was classified as per the International Classification of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ICROP), 2021. The study subjects were divided into two groups based on the status of ROP. The relationship among HbF, blood transfusion, and ROP was evaluated in both the groups. The relationship between other clinical characteristics and various neonatal risk factors was also studied between the groups. Results: A total of 410 preterm infants were included in this study, of which 110 infants had ROP (26.8%). Blood transfusion was found to be significantly associated with the development of ROP. Higher fraction of HbF (%) was associated with a lower prevalence of ROP. HbF was also inversely related with the severity of ROP. Conclusion: Replacing HbF by adult hemoglobin during blood transfusion may promote the development of ROP. Conversely, maintaining a higher percentage of HbF may be a protective factor against ROP.

Determinación de valores de corte de 17 hidroxiprogesterona ajustados por edad gestacional para la pesquisa neonatal de la hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita / Assessment of gestational age-adjusted 17-hydroxyprogesterone cut-off values for neonatal screening of congenital adrenal hyperplasia

La pesquisa neonatal de hiperplasia suprarrenal congénita se realiza mediante la determinación de 17 hidroxiprogesterona (17OHP) en gotas de sangre seca en papel de filtro. Los bebés prematuros presentan valores más elevados que los bebés de término, siendo de utilidad contar con límites de corte apropiados. Nuestro objetivo fue actualizar los valores de corte de 17OHP ajustados por edad gestacional para la metodología en uso a nivel nacional por las jurisdicciones asistidas por el "Programa Nacional de Fortalecimiento de la Detección Precoz de Enfermedades Congénitas". La 17OHP se determinó utilizando el kit comercial de enzimo-inmunoanálisis (ELISA competitivo), Elizen Neonatal 17OHP Screening (Zentech, Bélgica). Se obtuvieron límites de corte utilizando percentiles de la distribución de los valores de 17OHP para cada edad gestacional. La sensibilidad obtenida fue 100%, especificidad 98,76 %, tasa de falsos positivos 1,24 % y el valor predictivo positivo 1,12 %. Destacamos la importancia de disponer de límites de corte adecuados a la población. La armonización de los mismos permitirá resultados comparables entre los programas regionales de pesquisa neonatal (AU)

Newborn screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia is performed by the measurement of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) in dried blood spots on filter paper. Premature infants have higher values than full-term infants, and appropriate cutoff values are useful. Our aim was to update the cut-off values of 17OHP adjusted for gestational age for the methodology used at a national level in regions assisted by the "National Program for Strengthening the Early Detection of Congenital Diseases". 17OHP was determined using the commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (competitive ELISA) kit, Elizen Newborn 17OHP Screening (Zentech, Belgium). Cut-off values were obtained using percentiles of the distribution of 17OHP values for each gestational age. Sensitivity was 100%, specificity 98.76%, false positive rate 1.24%, and positive predictive value 1.12%. It is important to have cut-off values that are adjusted to the population. Harmonization will allow for the comparison of results among regional newborn screening programs (AU)

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.

The effect of the quality improvement project of admission hypothermia on short-term outcomes of preterm infants less than 34 weeks gestational age / 中国小儿急救医学

Objective:To study the high risk factors of hypothermia in premature infants with gestational age ≤34 weeks, and to analyze the incidence of hypothermia before and after the implementation of the quality improvement program of hypothermia in hospital and its influence on various systemic complications, aiming to improve the early identification of hypothermia and to reveal the important clinical significance of temperature management in time.Methods:Clinical data of preterm infants born in Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province from May 2017 to December 2018, with gestational age ≤34 weeks, and admitted within 1 hour after birth were collected.According to the admission temperature, the infants were divided into normal temperature group (36.5-37.5 ℃), mild hypothermia group (36.0-36.4 ℃), moderate hypothermia gsroup (32.0-35.9 ℃), and severe hypothermia group (<32.0 ℃). The high risk factors of hypothermia in premature infants were analyzed.The incidence and degree of hypothermia and the effects on the systemic complications before and after the implementation of the hypothermia quality improvement program were compared.Results:A total of 306 premature infants were enrolled in the study, including 63(20.6%)cases in the normal temperature group, 115(37.6%) cases in the mild hypothermia group, and 128(41.8%) cases in the moderate hypothermia group, without severe hypothermia.Infants with birth asphyxia were at higher risk for hypothermia( OR=0.195, 95% CI 0.046-0.833, P=0.027); the lower the Apgar score at 1 min( r=0.123, P=0.032)and 5 min after birth( r=0.136, P=0.017), the higher the risk of admission hypothermia.After the quality improvement project, the incidence of admission hypothermia decreased from 82.3% to 73.8%( χ2=32.67, P<0.001), and the use of pulmonary surfactant in infants with respiratory distress syndrome was significantly reduced(70.0% vs. 32.0%, χ2=40.11, P<0.001), and the incidence of hypotension within 72 hours after birth decreased(11.8% vs. 4.9%, χ2=3.87, P<0.049). Conclusion:Birth asphyxia is a risk factor for admission hypothermia in premature infants, and Apgar score is associated with admission hypothermia in premature infants.Temperature management of preterm infants can significantly reduce the incidence of hypothermia and hypotension, and reduce the use of pulmonary surfactant in respiratory distress syndrome infants.

Clinical features and brain volume analysis of enlarged subarachnoid space in preterm infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical features of enlarged subarachnoid space (ESS) and its effects on brain parenchymal volume in preterm infants.Methods:From November 2014 to November 2021, a retrospective case-control study was performed on preterm infants admitted to neonatal intensive care unit of our hospital with gestational age (GA)<32 w and having brain MR imaging. At full-term of corrected GA, the superior sagittal sinus-cortical spacing (sinocortical width, SCW) was measured on brain MR imaging. The infants were assigned into ESS and non-ESS groups according to whether SCW was greater than 3.5 mm. Perinatal factors, preterm-related complications and the brain volumetric indices were compared between the two groups.Results:A total of 160 preterm infants with GA<32 w were included, 76 (47.5%) were in the ESS group, SCW:(4.48±1.47) mm, and 84 were in the non-ESS group, SCW: (2.49±0.68) mm. GA and birth weight (BW) of the ESS group were significantly smaller than the non-ESS group [(28.7±2.6) weeks vs.(29.8±2.5) weeks, (1 114±279)g vs. (1 208±290)g]( P<0.05). Small GA was an independent risk factor for the development of ESS in preterm infants with GA<32w ( OR=1.217,95% CI 1.017~1.457, P=0.032). On MR imaging, the ESS group had significantly higher total cranial cavity volume than the non-ESS group [(354.1±33.6)ml vs. (316.9±36.3) ml] ( P<0.05). No significant differences existed on head circumference, gray matter volume and white matter volume between the two groups ( P>0.05). Conclusions:ESS is common in premature infants and correlated with GA and BW. Small GA is an independent risk factor for ESS in preterm infants. ESS shows little effects on head circumference and brain parenchymal volume during early postnatal period.

The incidence and risk factors of early hyperglycemia in extremely preterm infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the incidence and risk factors of early hyperglycemia in extremely preterm infants (EPIs).Methods:From January 2018 to December 2021, EPIs with gestational age (GA) <28 w born in our hospital and admitted to the neonatal department were retrospectively studied. According to the occurrence of early hyperglycemia (within 1 w after birth), the infants were assigned into hyperglycemia group and non-hyperglycemia group. Univariate and logistic regression were used to analyze the risk factors of early hyperglycemia in EPIs.Results:A total of 218 cases of EPIs were enrolled, including 70 (32.1%) in the hyperglycemia group and 148 (67.9%) in the non-hyperglycemia group. The incidence of early hyperglycemia in EPIs with GA<25 w was 10/20 and 11/16 in EPIs with birth weight (BW) ≤700 g. The GA and BW of the hyperglycemia group were significantly lower than the non-hyperglycemia group ( P<0.05). More infants in the hyperglycemia group had 1-min and 5-min Apgar≤7 than the non-hyperglycemia group ( P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that increased BW ( OR=0.995, 95% CI 0.993~0.997, P<0.05) was a protective factor for early hyperglycemia in EPIs, while male gender ( OR=2.512,95% CI 1.232~5.123, P<0.05), vasoactive drug use during the first week of life ( OR=2.687, 95% CI 1.126~6.414, P<0.05), maternal hypertension during pregnancy ( OR=14.735, 95% CI 1.578~137.585, P<0.05) were risk factors for early hyperglycaemia in EPIs. Conclusions:Early hyperglycemia are common among EPIs. Low BW, male gender, vasoactive drug use during the first week of life and maternal hypertension during pregnancy may increase the risk of early hyperglycemia.

Risk factors of extrauterine growth retardation in very preterm infants with birth weight less than 1 500 g / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the risk factors of extrauterine growth retardation (EUGR) during hospitalization in very preterm infants (VPIs) with birth weight (BW) <1 500 g.Methods:From Jan 2015 to Dec 2020, clinical data of VPIs admitted to neonatal department our hospital were retrospectively studied. The infants were assigned into EUGR group and non-EUGR group according to their weight at discharge. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors of EUGR in VPIs.Results:A total of 969 VPIs were enrolled, including 400 cases of EUGR (41.3%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that Z-score of BW ( OR=0.057, 95% CI 0.037-0.088, P<0.001) was closely correlated with the occurrence of EUGR and growth velocity (GV) after regain BW ( OR=0.537, 95% CI 0.479-0.602, P<0.001) was a protective factor for EUGR. Maternal hypertension during pregnancy ( OR=1.895, 95% CI 1.059-3.394, P=0.031), asphyxia at birth ( OR=2.508, 95% CI 1.265-3.347, P=0.004) and moderate to severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) ( OR=2.660, 95% CI 1.503-4.708, P=0.001) were risk factors for EUGR at discharge. Conclusions:EUGR is still common in VPIs. Increased GV after regain BW, prevention and treatment of moderate to severe BPD may reduce the incidence of EUGR at discharge in VPIs.

The formula for orogastric tube insertion length in preterm infants based on growth indicators and gestational age / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To develop a formula for estimating the insertion length of orogastric (OG) tube for preterm infants based on growth indicators and gestational age (GA).Methods:From January 2020 to December 2021, preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of our hospital were retrospectively reviewed. OG tubes were inserted within 24 h of admission and the lengths of OG tubes were adjusted according to chest and abdominal X-ray results. The formula for OG tube placement was developed using stepwise regression analysis method with GA, body weight (BW) and body length (BL) as the independent variables and the corrected length of OG tube as the dependent variable. The weight-based formula developed by Freeman et al. were compared.Results:A total of 180 preterm infants were included, with 90 cases GA<32 weeks, 84 cases GA 32~35 weeks and 6 cases GA 36 weeks. No significant differences ( P>0.05) existed in the incidences of misplacement of OG tube and the specific types of misplacement among GA groups. For infants with GA≤35 weeks, the insertion length of OG tube was positively correlated with BW and BL and for preterm infants with GA 36 weeks, the insertion length of OG tube was positively correlated with BW only. Stepwise regression analysis showed the formula as OG tube length (cm)=11.8+2.1×BW (kg) or OG tube length (cm)=9.5+1.6×BW (kg)+0.091×GA (week). Comparing with the formula developed by Freeman et al., the differences of OG tube length estimated using our formula were more prominent as BW increased. Conclusions:The length of OG tube is positively correlated with BW and GA with BW shows more influence.

Clinical characteristics of ureaplasma urealyticum infection in very low birth weight preterm infants / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical characteristics and risk factors of intrauterine Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) infection in very low birth weight preterm infants.Methods:From March 2019 to February 2022, very low birth weight preterm infants with gestational age 28~32 weeks admitted to our hospital were enrolled in this single-center retrospective study. According to the UU test results of respiratory tract samples obtained within 24 h after admission, the infants were assigned into the UU group (UU-PCR positive) and the non-UU group (UU-PCR negative). SPSS 26.0 statistical software was used to compare the clinical characteristics, laboratory indices, and complications between the two groups. Risk factors of UU infection were calculated.Results:A total of 327 preterm infants were included: 45 in the UU group and 282 in the non-UU group. No significant differences existed in gender, gestational age, birth weight and delivery pattern between the two groups ( P>0.05). Compared with the non-UU group, the UU group had significantly higher incidences of premature rupture of membranes (PROM) and chorioamnionitis, elevated white blood cell and platelet counts, procalcitonin and C-reactive protein levels, total duration of oxygen use and ventilation, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis and metabolic osteopathy ( P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that PROM ( OR=5.444, 95% CI 2.749-10.781, P<0.001) and chorioamnionitis ( OR=2.161, 95% CI 1.048-4.454, P=0.037) were independent risk factors for UU infection. Conclusions:PROM and chorioamnionitis are risk factors for UU infection in very low birth weight preterm infants. For high-risk premature infants, the UU test should be completed as soon as possible after birth.

The application value of respiratory intervention training in feeding of preterm infants / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of respiratory intervention training in feeding of preterm infants, so as to provide reference for feeding interventions in preterm infants.Methods:From March 2021 to October 2021, the 80 preterm infants hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Xuzhou Central Hospital were selected and divided into intervention group (40 cases) and control group (40 cases) according to the random table method in a prospective study. The common nursing was given in the control group, the respiratory intervention training was given on this basis in the intervention group, once a day for two weeks. The intervention effect was evaluated by the time of indwelling gastric tube, hospital stay, feeding reaction, feeding related complications and satisfaction rate of catch-up growth. The oral feeding ability of preterm infants was evaluated by the non-nutritive sucking (NNS) score and preterm infants oral feeding readiness assessment scale (PIOFRAS) score.Results:The time of indwelling gastric tube and hospital stay was (15.3 ± 8.7), (28.9 ± 9.8) d in the intervention group and (21.7 ± 9.8), (34.6 ± 12.2) d in the control group, the difference was significant ( t=3.12, 2.32, both P<0.05). After intervention, the differences of respiratory number, heart rate and pulse oxygen saturation were (6.5 ± 1.3) beats/min, (11.2 ± 1.5) beats/min, 0.048 ± 0.015 in the intervention group and (11.2 ± 1.2) beats/min, (16.5 ± 1.3) beats/min, 0.082 ± 0.018 in the control group, the differences were significant ( t=16.39, 16.40, 9.35, all P<0.05). The incidence of feeding-related complications was 25.0% (10/40) in the intervention group and 55.0% (22/40) in the control group, the difference was significant ( χ2=7.50, P<0.05). The satisfaction rate of catch-up growth was 77.5%(31/40) in the intervention group and 40.0%(16/40) in the control group, the difference was significant ( χ2=12.78, P<0.05). The scores of NNS and PIOFRAS at 7 d, 10 d and 14 d after intervention were (13.73 ± 2.24), (29.98 ± 6.67), (49.08 ± 16.37) points and (15.28 ± 1.41), (25.08 ± 3.10), (31.03 ± 3.00) points in the intervention group and (10.30 ± 2.18), (15.68 ± 2.42), (28.60 ± 3.61) points and (12.60 ± 1.22), (17.15 ± 1.51), (23.75 ± 3.87) points in the control group, the differences were significant ( t values were -14.53--6.94, all P<0.05). Conclusions:The respiratory intervention training can effectively shorten the transition time from tube feeding to complete oral feeding in preterm infants, reduce feeding reaction and the incidence of feeding-related complications, and promote the coordination of feeding behavior, so as to improve oral feeding ability and catch-up growth of preterm infants.

Investigation of sleep status of preterm infants discharged from NICU / 中华护理杂志

Objective To investigate the status and influencing factors of sleep in preterm infants at 1 month corrected age.Methods 130 preterm infants admitted to the NICU of 3 tertiary hospitals in Hubei Province were recruited as participants during May 2021 and March 2022.Sleep assessment of preterm infants was conducted at 1 month corrected age.Infants'sleep was assessed using the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire(BISQ).Multivariate linear regression model was used to analyze the influencing factors of sleep status(sleep latency,night awakenings,nocturnal sleep duration,daytime sleep duration,24 h sleep duration)of preterm infants.Results A total of 124 preterm infants completed the follow-up at 1 month corrected age.Multiple linear regression analysis showed that feeding patterns and sleep initiation patterns affected the sleep latency;gestational age,mechanical ventilation duration,maternal education level,and sleep initiation patterns were influencing factors of night awakenings;nocturnal sleep duration was influenced by mechanical ventilation duration and feeding patterns;daytime sleep duration and 24 h sleep duration were influenced by feeding patterns and maternal educational level.Conclusion The preterm infant sleep is influenced by gestational age,duration of mechanical ventilation,feeding patterns,maternal education level,and sleep initiation patterns.Neonatology staff should focus on the preterm infants discharged from NICU and develop targeted intervention plans based on the determined influencing factors to improve the sleep status of preterm infants.

Overview of Chinese Neonatal Network: current and future / 中国小儿急救医学

The Chinese Neonatal Network(CHNN) was established in 2018 with the mission of establishing a national collaboration platform, conducting high-quality and collaborative research, and ultimately improving the quality of neonatal-perinatal care and health in China.At present, 112 hospitals across the country have joined CHNN.CHNN has established a national standardized cohort of very premature infants/very low birth weight infants with >10 000 enrollments each year, has been leading data-driven collaborative quality improvement initiatives, conducting multicenter clinical studies, and performing multi-level training programs.Guided by the principles of collaboration and sharing, data-driven, continuous improvement, and international integration, CHNN has become an important platform for clinical and research collaboration in neonatal medicine in China.

Clinical characteristics and short-term and long-term outcomes of preterm infants under two diagnostic criteria of bronchopulmonary dysplasia / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical characteristics and short-term and long-term outcomes of preterm infants under two diagnostic criteria of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).Methods:A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted of infants admitted to the Department of Neonatology of Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital from January 2019 to June 2021. Infants who were born at <32 weeks gestational age and met the 2001 National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) BPD definition were included. The 2019 Jenson BPD diagnostic criteria was then used to re-grade the enrolled population. Comparisons of clinical characteristics, neonatal morbidities, respiratory morbidities and growth status at follow-up between the two definition groups were conducted with t-test, nonparametric test, or Chi‐square test. Results:A total of 392 patients were included. The number of patients with BPD classified as mild, moderate, severe, and unclassifiable according to the 2001 definition was 129, 134, 114, and 15, respectively. According to the 2019 definition, there were 134 cases in the Class Ⅰ group, 89 cases in the Class Ⅱ group, 25 cases in the Class Ⅲ group, and 144 cases of non BPD. Patients with grade Ⅰ and Ⅱ BPD from the 2019 definition had an higher incidence of post-discharge home oxygen therapy, older age at discharge, and longer length of stay, compared to those with mild and moderate BPD from the 2001 definition (all P<0.05). Under both criteria, mortality increased as severity of BPD increased. Patients with grade Ⅲ BPD from the 2019 definition had higher mortality than those with severe BPD from the 2001 definition, the difference was statistically significant (48.0% vs. 14.0%, P<0.01). A total of 138 infants were followed up at 12 months of corrected age. There were no significant differences in the majority of physical development indicators and the rates of respiratory disease, readmission, and severe neurological injury, between the two definition groups at follow-up. Conclusions:The 2001 definition leads to higher BPD diagnosis rate and higher incidence of classification into the severest category within the definition. But mortality in the severe BPD group from 2001 definition was lower than that in the grade Ⅲ group from the 2019 definition. The 2019 definition is more stringent, more reasonable, more practical, and more capable of identifying patients with poor outcomes.