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Call for Europe-wide screening of babies for heart defects

A consensus statement from a group of neonatologists and pediatric cardiologists recommends routine pulse oximetry screening for all European babies within 24 hours of birth to detect critical congenital heart defects. Early detection is crucial for the best outcome, and current methods may miss up to 50% of affected infants.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateNov 7, 2017

Study finds little improvement in mortality rate for extremely preterm infants since 2000

Researchers have found that the mortality rate for extremely preterm infants has not improved significantly since 2000, despite advancements in medical technology and treatment. Data from over 47,000 records shows a decline in mortality rates from 1990 to 2000, but no significant improvement from 2000 to 2010.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Perinatology·DateAug 13, 2015

Preterm babies continue to receive inhaled nitric oxide

A study published in Pediatrics found that the rate of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) utilization in American NICUs increased by 23% between 2009 and 2013, with nearly half of all iNO users being preterm neonates. This trend has significant economic implications, estimated to be $153 million in 2013.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 9, 2015

Dartmouth Medical School professors study the uneven landscapeof newborn intensive care services: Variation in the neonatology workforce

A study by Dartmouth Medical School researchers found significant regional variation in neonatal intensive care workforce distribution, with cities like Washington DC and Newark NJ having higher numbers of neonatologists. The team's findings suggest that more resources do not necessarily lead to better outcomes for newborns.