Babies' deaths could not be averted, say experts
A study of 137 newborns found significant brain damage in 36% of early-born and 61% of term-born babies, suggesting that birth-related injuries are often overlooked.
Infants
Articles tagged with Infants
New study identifies additional genetic mutations in SIDS babies
A new study has identified 11 genetic mutations in SIDS cases, with a significant association found in African American babies. The study suggests that these mutations may contribute to the increased risk of SIDS in this ethnic group.
UK university's research throws light on early infant mortality
A UK university study found significant brain damage in 36% of premature babies and 61% of full-term infants before labor began. This suggests that key signs were often overlooked during childbirth, leading to potential mismanagement of pregnancy and labor.
Infant rats eagerly accept high concentrations of alcohol upon first exposure
Researchers found that infant rats willingly ingest large amounts of highly concentrated alcohol during their first exposure, resulting in extremely high blood alcohol levels. This contrasts with adult rats and humans, who typically reject or require initiation procedures to consume alcohol.
Infants sighs may 'reset' breathing regulation mechanism as well as help lungs develop
Research found that infants' sighs play a significant role in helping their lungs mature and regulate breathing. The study revealed that sighs may 'reset' the breathing mechanism, improving lung function and gas exchange efficiency. This suggests a crucial link between breathing control and mechanical development.
Study finds near-term infants at risk for significant health problems
A recent study examined near-term and full-term newborns at Massachusetts General Hospital and found that the near-term group had significantly more diagnoses of clinical problems. The average hospital stay costs for near-term infants were also $2,600 higher than those of full-term infants.
Babies with DiGeorge syndrome saved by immune supression, thymus transplant
Babies with complete DiGeorge syndrome, a fatal genetic disorder, are saved by a new combination of immune suppression and thymus transplantation. The technique reduces the risk of infection and allows infants to develop a functioning immune system.
Genetic discovery could dramatically reduce need for liver transplants in children
Researchers discovered that inflammatory genes are activated and control bile duct obstruction in biliary atresia, a disease affecting up to 50% of children undergoing liver transplants. Blocking these inflammatory signals may prevent disease progression and increase long-term survival.
Encouraging results for long-term efficacy of meningitis C vaccine
The meningococcal serogroup C conjugate (MCC) vaccine programme has successfully controlled the incidence of meningitis C, with high short-term effectiveness and substantial herd immunity. However, long-term efficacy remains unknown, with protection diminishing in children vaccinated in early infancy.
What are babies thinking before they start talking?
Researchers found that infants as young as five months detect subtle differences in object fit and space description between Korean and English languages. This suggests that humans have pre-existing concepts before acquiring language, which may influence the way we categorize objects and events.
Researchers identify gene for a primary form of sudden infant death sydrome (SIDS)
A team of researchers has identified a gene linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), revealing a genetic basis for the syndrome. The gene, TSPYL, is expressed in both the brainstem and testes, and its alteration can cause sudden death in infants.
Teen birth rate down, youth less likely to be involved in violent crimes
The teen birth rate has declined to a record low, and youth are less likely to be involved in violent crimes. However, the prevalence of overweight among children has increased, posing a risk for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
Maternal DHA levels plays important role in infant development
Research found that infants with higher maternal DHA levels at birth showed more mature attentional development and were less distractible during play. This suggests a potential link between DHA supplementation during pregnancy and improved infant cognitive functions.
Two regimens found comparable in preventing perinatal transmission of HIV
A randomized trial found that two short drug regimens for infants at birth reduced mother-to-child transmission of HIV compared to a single regimen. The study suggests several options for prevention, including voluntary counseling and testing, standard NVP prophylaxis, and postexposure prophylaxis.
Bacterial toxin may protect infants from asthma
A US study of nearly 500 infants found that higher levels of endotoxin in the home were associated with a lower risk of developing eczema during their first year of life. Infants living in homes with dogs also had a reduced risk of eczema, but this relationship was weakened when adjusting for endotoxin exposure.
Highlights of the NIAAA position paper on moderate alcohol consumption
Research suggests moderate drinking may lower heart disease risk in older adults but increase breast cancer risk, particularly among women with family history or hormone replacement therapy. Moderate consumption also appears to reduce the risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
First national survey measures parents' opinions on the quality and content of well-child visits
The study shows that quality of childhood healthcare is good, but parents express a need for key child development issues. Parent satisfaction ratings are strongly related to the care received, increasing with more time, in-depth discussions, and family-centered care.
Incentive-based intervention with nutritional component improves health status of children in Mexico
The Progresa program showed improvements in height increments and anemia rates among participants. Children who received the nutrition component experienced better growth and reduced risk of malnutrition.
Study suggests breastfeeding reduces cardiovascular risk later in life
A prospective study found that breastfed preterm infants had lower ratios of LDL to HDL cholesterol and CRP concentrations compared to formula-fed counterparts. Longer human milk intake was associated with additional benefits on cardiovascular health.
Why youngsters try to do impossible things
Common in 18- to 30-month-old children, scale errors occur when youngsters try to perform actions on miniature objects despite knowing they're too small. The study suggests a failure of inhibitory control and immaturity of the prefrontal cortex.
UNC study may help predict premature infants at risk of total blindness
A new UNC study identifies specific eye features that can predict when premature infants are at risk of developing retinal detachment and total blindness. The study found that certain blood vessel growth patterns and vitreous cloudiness may indicate the need for surgical intervention to prevent progressive stage 4 ROP.
NIAID rotavirus vaccine licensed for commercialization
The NIAID-licensed rotavirus vaccine has been developed to combat severe diarrhea in infants and young children worldwide. The vaccine has shown promise in reducing the number of deaths caused by rotavirus infections, particularly in developing countries where access to effective treatments is limited.
Iron-deficient infants score worse on cognitive and motor tests as teens
Children with iron deficiency in infancy show persistent delays in both motor skills and cognitive abilities, even after treatment. These effects are most pronounced in children from low socioeconomic backgrounds, suggesting that addressing iron deficiency is crucial to mitigating long-term impacts on brain development.
Special incubators allow high-quality imaging of critically ill newborns
Researchers found that MR-compatible incubators allow for high-quality imaging of critically ill newborns without radiation exposure. The incubators streamline the examination process and improve image resolution, enabling earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
Enzyme prevents lung damage in premature infants
Researchers found that an enzyme called superoxide dismutase helps prevent inflammation and promotes lung development in premature infants. This discovery could lead to improved treatments to alleviate chronic lung disease and preserve lung function.
Breastfeeding decreases infant mortality
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that breastfeeding for at least 28 days is associated with a 20% lower risk of dying between 28 days and one year of age. Longer breastfeeding duration also showed a similar benefit, indicating that even moderate breastfeeding can have a positive impact on infant mortality rates.
Some infants recognize, respond to social eating cues
A study found that babies described as difficult eaters or overeaters are more likely to eat when their mother handles food and feed themselves after receiving a bite. This relationship was not seen in non-problem eater children, suggesting an innate link to social cues.
Study shows human milk may prevent serious infection in extremely low birth weight infants
A recent study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center suggests that human milk can significantly reduce the risk of severe infections in extremely low birth weight infants. The research analyzed data from 1270 infants and found that those who received human milk had a lower incidence of sepsis compared to those who did not.
American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for May 2004 (first issue)
A study found that furosemide inhalation alleviated severe breathlessness in patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, researchers developed a new model for neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) using nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) therapy.
University of Pittsburgh receives NIH funding to develop heart assist device for infants
The University of Pittsburgh is developing a heart assist device for infants with severe congenital heart defects, utilizing suspended magnetic levitation technology and miniaturization. The goal is to create a bridge-to-transplant device that allows infants to recover or survive until a donor heart becomes available.
Dental X-rays during pregnancy associated with low birth weight babies
Research found that women who received dental x-rays during pregnancy had a higher risk of having low birth weight infants, especially term low birth weight (TLBW) infants. The study suggested that eliminating all dental radiography during pregnancy could reduce the prevalence of TLBW infants by up to five percent.
Newborn testing for immune disorders could save lives
A simple, inexpensive blood test performed at birth can screen for immune disorders like SCID and increase survival rates. The test, which costs $50, identifies infants with a profound deficiency of lymphocytes and has been shown to be effective in identifying children with other immune disorders.
Families generally happy with initial early intervention services, study shows
Most families enrolled in early intervention programs report a satisfactory experience, but face challenges such as long wait times and limited access. The study highlights the need for improved systems to support families with children at risk of disabilities.
American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for April 2004 (second issue)
Research suggests that community-acquired pneumonia patients who are discharged from the hospital may face a higher risk of mortality in the subsequent 2-3 years if they have certain predictors, such as increasing age and cardiovascular disease. The study also found no excess mortality in younger patients without accompanying diseases.
First flavors form a lasting impression
A study found that infants fed protein hydrolysate formula for seven months developed a taste preference for the formula, while those fed standard milk-based formula rejected it. Early flavor exposure influences long-term food choices.
Fetal heart monitoring ineffective at diagnosing cerebral palsy
Researchers found no signs of impending brain injury from fetal heart rate monitoring, highlighting the need for alternative diagnostic methods. White matter brain injury is a common cause of cerebral palsy, but current monitoring systems may not be effective in detecting it.
Deficits associated with prenatal alcohol exposure can be seen as early as infancy
Research reveals that prenatal alcohol exposure can cause slower processing speeds and arousal-regulation problems as early as infancy. Infants of mothers who consumed large amounts of alcohol during pregnancy showed higher levels of behavioral arousal but responded more slowly to stimuli.
How couples manage parenting forecasts later marital quality, study finds
Research found that how couples manage parenting responsibilities when their child is 6 months old affects the quality of their marriage when their child is 3 years old. Couples who had a good relationship with each other as infants but struggled with parenting conflicts were more likely to have poorer couple relationships later on.
Study suggests brain haemorrhage in babies over age one month unlikely from traumatic delivery
A study published in The Lancet found that subdural hemorrhages in full-term babies are rare and typically resolve on their own. The research suggested that forceps-assisted deliveries and other trauma during birth may increase the risk of bleeding, but even then, it is usually not a cause for concern.
UCSF study: Pediatrician's judgment often better than clinical guidelines for treating infant fever
A recent UCSF study found that pediatricians' clinical judgment may be more effective than strict adherence to guidelines in managing febrile illnesses in infants. The study analyzed data from 3,066 infants and found that experienced clinicians using clinical judgment may reduce unnecessary hospitalizations and improve treatment outcomes.
Infants with fevers receive as good care when physicians rely on judgment than clinical guidelines
Researchers found that 36% of infants were hospitalized, while 64% received treatment outside the hospital. Despite guideline non-adherence, infant mortality rates remained low.
Providing cribs may help protect at-risk babies from SIDS
A study in St. Louis, MO found that nearly half of poor African-American babies shared a bed with their mother, increasing SIDS risk. Providing safe cribs to these families reduced this risk by 78%.
UW study: Baby's face lights up emotional center of new mom's brain
Researchers found that mothers' brain activity increased when shown pictures of their own babies compared to others, indicating involvement of the orbitofrontal cortex in maternal attachment. The study's findings suggest a link between positive emotions and maternal bonding.
Babies tune into others' intentions early in the first year
Infants begin to grasp intentional action in the first year, understanding actions as goal-directed and recognizing invisible connections between people and objects. This early knowledge lays the foundation for later developments in understanding intentions.
Manual techniques may ease tough deliveries without need for episiotomy
Researchers found that manual techniques can reduce permanent brachial plexus damage in babies by up to 50% compared to episiotomies. This approach also minimizes severe perineal injuries in mothers. The study suggests a safer and more effective alternative for managing severe shoulder dystocia during childbirth.
Study provides answers for childbirth after C-section
A four-year study published by Ohio State University researchers found that attempting a vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) is associated with increased risk of maternal morbidity and serious obstetric complications. Despite this, many women continue to opt for VBAC due to the relatively low level of risk involved.
Risk of stillbirth on weekends
A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that infants born over the weekend had a slightly elevated risk of stillbirth and neonatal death compared to those born on weekdays. The researchers suggested that selective timing of low-risk elective deliveries may explain this difference.
Call for increase in flu vaccination among young children
Recent studies suggest that pediatric influenza is a significant medical problem, causing excess hospitalizations and antibiotic prescriptions. Experts call for increased efforts to identify and vaccinate high-risk children, as well as educating parents and physicians about the importance of flu vaccination.
Major risk factors identified for sudden infant death syndrome
A European study has identified major risk factors for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), including prone sleeping positions and household smoking. These avoidable risk factors suggest a basis for further reductions in SIDS incidence rates through changes in infant sleep arrangements and environmental habits.
Patient outcomes are better indicator than patient volume for selecting hospitals for VLBW babies
Research suggests that direct-quality indicators based on patient mortality are more effective in selecting high-performing hospitals for VLBW infants. The study found that hospitals with lower past mortality rates had significantly better outcomes, implying that volume-based standards may not accurately predict quality.
Water and sanitation key to health of infants in developing countries
A new study by William Checkley and colleagues found that water and sanitation are key determinants of infant health in developing countries. The research, conducted on 230 Peruvian infants, revealed that inadequate water and sanitation can lead to higher rates of diarrheal episodes and stunted growth.
Study suggests widespread environmental presence ofEnterobacter sakazakii
Environmental samples from food factories and households contained E. sakazakii, highlighting the need for preventive control measures. Health professionals should follow recommendations to handle reconstituted powdered infant formulas with care.
American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for January 2004 (first issue)
Researchers found that infants with reduced interferon gamma production at age 3 months and lower soluble CD14 levels at birth are 4.5 times more likely to develop recurrent wheezing. Chronic cough is also linked to abnormal release of inflammatory mediators within the airway, according to a separate study.
Use of rubella vaccine is growing worldwide, but more work remains
The use of rubella vaccine has increased globally, with 124 countries using it in their immunization programs by 2002. Surveillance for congenital rubella syndrome remains a concern, with incomplete reporting and estimated cases being only 0.1% of true total.
Incidence of pertussis among infants appears to be increasing
The incidence of pertussis among infants increased significantly between 1980 and 1999, with a 49% rise in reported cases. The majority of these cases occurred among infants under four months old, suggesting the need for improved vaccination strategies to control the spread of the disease.
Early treatment of blinding eye disease in infants can prevent severe vision loss
Researchers found that early treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in high-risk infants can prevent severe vision loss. The ETROP study demonstrated that premature infants who receive therapy in the early stage of the disease retain better vision than those who wait until their condition is more advanced.
'Duct Busters' team travels to perform newborn heart surgery at regional hospitals
The Duct Busters team repairs patent ductus arteriosus in premature newborns with high-quality surgical care, eliminating transport risks and allowing families to stay in familiar environments. The study found no significant differences in anesthesia-related complications or surgical outcomes between on-site and off-site procedures.
Early treatment can prevent severe vision loss in premature infants
Researchers found that early treatment reduced the likelihood of poor vision from 19.5% to 14.5% and structural damage from 15.6% to 9.1% in high-risk premature infants. The study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, identified risk factors for ROP and showed that prompt treatment can prevent severe vision loss.
Infants could benefit from early ultrasound screening for hip dysplasia
A five-year study in Germany found that early ultrasound screening reduced the number of subsequent hip operations from 147 to around 80-100. However, the effectiveness depends on timely screening before six weeks of age.
Left side of brain activates speech from birth
Research using fMRI scans found left-hemisphere activation in infant brains during speech stimulation, suggesting early language lateralization. The study challenges the long-held assumption that language dominance is progressive until puberty.