Articles tagged with Infants
A study of over 13 million US infants found maternal Medicaid insurance associated with higher infant mortality rates. Novel strategies are needed to improve outcomes among women and infants enrolled in Medicaid.
A study published in Trends in Cognitive Science found that infants are capable of conscious experiences from birth, which can shape their sense of self and understanding of the environment. This breakthrough has important implications for clinical, ethical, and legal aspects of infant care and development.
Researchers discovered that young children's immune systems produce fewer and more stable antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, which may explain why they rarely develop severe cases of the virus. This unique response is characterized by narrow-spectrum antibodies effective against the original variant but less protective against other variants.
Researchers aim to understand factors contributing to inadequate milk supply and its effects on infants. They will collect breast milk and fecal samples, as well as questionnaires at 8 months and 1 year to identify potential interventions.
A substantial burden of RSV-associated hospitalizations was found in Canadian pediatric hospitals, especially among infants under six months. The study suggests that preventive strategies for these young infants could lead to decreased RSV disease burden in children.
A study by Swansea University found that 85% of powdered infant formula preparation machines failed to reach a temperature of at least 70°C, a crucial step in killing bacteria. The researchers recommend stronger consumer protections and updated labelling requirements for infant formula preparation devices.
A new clinical trial has found that administering metformin to pregnant women with gestational diabetes does not increase adverse neonatal outcomes or maternal health risks. The study provides hope for expectant mothers and healthcare providers seeking a safe alternative to traditional insulin-based treatments.
A new study published in Diabetologia found that breastfeeding for six months or longer is associated with lower levels of body fat at the age of nine. Infants who were not given soda before 18 months also had a lower fat mass at this age. The study suggests that infant feeding patterns, including breastfeeding duration and early intro...
Research finds that immune cells in older adults are similar to those in newborns and children, but less effective at recognizing infected cells. The study, published in Nature Immunology, suggests that tailored vaccines and therapies could be developed for different age groups based on the unique characteristics of killer T cells.
A new Michigan State University and Corewell Health research found that in-home prenatal services can significantly reduce the risk of premature births and infant deaths. Pregnant individuals receiving enhanced prenatal care saw a 57% reduced risk, while expectant Black mothers experienced an even greater reduction.
A new type of bone-forming stem cell, DDR2+, has been found to cause premature skull fusion in infants. The researchers discovered that the abnormal proliferation of this stem cell leads to an excess of bone-making cells, resulting in craniosynostosis.
A groundbreaking study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that agency emerges from the coupled relation between humans and their environment. Infants are found to discover their causal powers and transition from spontaneous to intentional behavior at a critical level of coordination, marking an abrupt increase in movement rate.
The National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) survey results suggest that over 90% of its members believe the organization should pursue racial equity work. The organization has received specific suggestions for a strategic plan, including prioritizing research initiatives, providing continuing education credits, and increasing di...
A new study found that infants less than one year old experienced the highest absolute and relative mortality during the Dutch Hunger Winter Famine. Diseases of the digestive system showed a tenfold mortality increase, with most deaths from enteritis, diarrhea, and intestinal ulcers.
Research found alterations in proteins that can affect autophagy, a self-eating process of damaged cells. Healthy newborns showed individual responses to prenatal exposure to air pollution, with some more vulnerable than others. The study aims to understand the impact on breathing problems during infancy and childhood.
Babies with more mature gut microbiota at one year old are less likely to develop allergy-related wheeze or asthma. The study, which followed 1074 babies from birth to four years old, found that increased maturity of the gut microbiota was associated with a lower risk of these conditions.
Researchers at Helmholtz Munich developed a non-invasive method using MR imaging to detect early signs of vascular disease associated with chronic pulmonary impairment in premature infants. The study presents a new tool for risk stratification and potential prevention of complications later in life.
A new study examines racial and socioeconomic differences in US preterm birth and mortality rates over 25 years. Despite improvements, disparities persist, with Black infants 1.4 times more likely to die from preterm birth than White and Hispanic infants.
Research finds that infants born during the pandemic have fewer types of bacteria in their gut compared to those born earlier. The study suggests that social changes caused by the pandemic may have influenced this change, with potential implications for infant health.
A study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that feeding infants formula with a complex component of milk (MFGM) and lactoferrin for 12 months raised IQ by 5 points at 5 ½ years of age, improving speed of processing information and visual-spatial skills. The effects were seen long after the end of formula feeding.
A study published in mSystems found associations between the gut microbiome and eczema in infancy, with alterations in gut bacteria preceding eczema development. The research revealed changes in gut microbiota composition and diversity over the first 3 years of life, influenced by mode of delivery and feeding patterns.
Researchers found that playing a lullaby reduced pain levels in newborn infants undergoing a heel prick blood test. The study, published in Pediatric Research, suggests that recorded music may be an effective method of pain relief in newborns during minor procedures.
A new study found that increased paternal involvement in childcare is associated with lower risk of developmental delay and promotes young children's development by reducing maternal parenting stress. High levels of paternal engagement yield advantages for both children and mothers.
A study found that dogs are more sensitive to speech directed at them than adult-directed speech, with a greater response to female voices. The researchers measured dog brain activity via fMRI and found that the sensitivity was affected by voice pitch and variation.
A Texas A&M University team is exploring 3D printing to create tailored medication dosage and tablet size for young children, addressing the need for greater flexibility in administering medications. The project aims to maintain drugs' integrity and effectiveness while advancing the field of pharmaceutical manufacturing.
A historical analysis of Bern Maternity Hospital data showed a notable surge in low birth weight and stillbirth rates coinciding with the 1918 'Spanish flu' pandemic. Researchers found that mothers exposed to the pandemic had a higher risk of stillbirth, highlighting the potential impact of pandemics on infant health.
Researchers from four countries sequenced genomes of 100 infants with unexplained seizures to better understand the potential strengths of early genome sequencing for infantile epilepsy. The study found that 43% received a diagnosis within weeks, and this impacted prognosis in nearly 90% of cases.
Most infants admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for RSV infections were previously healthy and born at term. Preventative interventions targeting all infants can reduce the burden of severe RSV illness. New treatments such as palivizumab and nirsevimab are being considered.
Most U.S. infants requiring intensive care for RSV lower respiratory tract infections were young and healthy, born at term. RSV preventive measures targeting all infants are urgently needed to reduce severe illness burden.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that stratified sampling is more effective at catching contaminants in infant formula than random sampling. The researchers used computer models to simulate testing finished formula and suggest ways to improve safety plans.
Researchers found that COVID-19 vaccination generates antibodies in pregnant people that cross the placenta and protect their newborns against severe COVID-19 disease. Booster doses also increase maternal and newborn immune defenses against COVID-19, supporting the use of vaccination during pregnancy.
A new malaria vaccine candidate has shown promising results in a cohort of Tanzanian infants, with substantial anti-RH5 immune responses achieved safely through vaccination. The vaccine targets the RH5 protein used by the malaria pathogen to invade red blood cells, providing a second line of defense against disease.
WVU linguists analyze speech recordings to determine how intensity and duration shape pronunciation in American English and Spanish. The two-year study aims to redefine sound patterns across languages.
A small pilot study found associations between specific microbe species and infants' performance in tests of social attention and rhythmic processing. The researchers observed higher levels of Actinobacteria and Bifidobacterium microbes in infants with better cognitive abilities.
A new study by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that people are more likely to recommend an RSV vaccine if they understand the rigorous process of the FDA's vaccine approval process. The study showed that 57% of those exposed to a flowchart were very or somewhat likely to recommend the vaccine, compared to 40% in a control group.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a fatty molecule in breast milk that triggers a process in which stem cells produce new white matter, reversing neurological damage. This finding holds promise for developing therapies to treat preterm babies with cerebral palsy.
Two new studies examine the health risks of antenatal steroid treatment for premature infants, revealing increased risk of serious infection and long-term health issues. The findings emphasize the need for doctors to exercise caution when considering steroid treatment.
Researchers created comprehensive fine-grained functional maps of infant brain networks, providing unprecedented details on brain development from birth to two years old. The study revealed novel insights into when different brain functions develop during infancy and provided valuable references for early brain developmental studies.
A study of 463 infants aged 8-36 months found that those with smaller vocabularies and poorer cognitive skills nap more frequently. Reducing naps for these children may not improve brain development, suggesting a need to re-evaluate sleep recommendations.
A recent study by Tufts University researchers found that myo-inositol in human breast milk increases synaptic connections between neurons, indicating stronger brain connectivity. This finding could lead to improved infant formulas and better brain health outcomes for adults with certain psychiatric conditions.
The NEC Society is hosting its annual symposium in San Diego to advance research and advocacy against the devastating intestinal disease necrotizing enterocolitis. The event will bring together families, clinicians, and researchers from around the world to share knowledge and expertise.
A large cohort study found that a low intake of dietary fiber during pregnancy is associated with neurodevelopmental delays in children. The study analyzed data from over 76,000 mother-infant pairs and found that children of mothers who consumed less fiber were more likely to show delays in brain function development.
A large-scale US study finds that breastfeeding reduces post-perinatal infant mortality by 33%. The findings suggest promoting and supporting breastfeeding could help address the high rate of infant mortality in the US. Regional variations exist, with higher initiation rates associated with lower mortality rates.
A mother-daughter duo has created a storybook to comfort bereaved families who have lost a child to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The book, Forever Our Little One, features illustrations inspired by the family's experiences. The NEC Society will benefit from all sales, supporting research into the devastating intestinal disease.
A study of over 10,000 rural Pennsylvania children found that many received high-sodium meats, salty snacks, and sugary treats before age 2. Early exposure to these unhealthy foods can shape taste preferences and lead to long-term health issues.
A recent study has found that babies born to fathers with psychiatric diagnoses are more likely to be born prematurely. The study analyzed data from over 1.5 million births in Sweden and found a significant increase in preterm births among infants whose father had a psychiatric diagnosis.
The study found two distinct groups: low maternal sleep (5-6 hours/night) and average maternal sleep (7-8 hours/night). Children in the low maternal sleep group slept less. Establishing early bedtime routines and consistent sleep patterns improved sleep duration and reduced sleep problems.
A new study from Northwestern University found that only 13% of US parents and caregivers are aware of the 2017 NIH guidelines recommending early peanut introduction to prevent peanut allergy. Despite this, more work is needed to educate families and clinicians about the guidelines.
A new analysis of Swedish birth records found that fathers' psychiatric diagnoses increase the risk of preterm birth, with risks higher for infants whose parents have both diagnoses. The study suggests that additional social support and prenatal care may help mitigate this risk.
A new study reveals that breast milk contains a unique set of antibodies passed from mom to baby, which can vary significantly between mothers. This variability may explain why some infants develop life-threatening diseases like NEC, while others do not.
A study found that babies watching live music had higher heart rates and were more engaged than those watching recordings, even with identical audio. The researchers tracked the babies' responses using heart monitors and tablets, and noted that the live performance captured their attention for 72% of the show.
A new national study found whole genome sequencing to be nearly twice as effective as a targeted gene sequencing test at identifying genetic disorders in newborns and infants. The targeted panel missed 40% of diagnoses that WGS captured, while also revealing 134 new genetic diagnoses.
New studies show cow colostrum can reduce infant formula use and strengthen mother's milk in premature babies, providing essential nutrients like amino acids. Researchers hope to optimize cow colostrum product for critical first few weeks after birth.
Research from the University of Surrey and University of Birmingham finds detrimental effects of all severities of maternal dengue infections on birth outcomes, including increases in low, very low, and extremely low birth weights. Long-term consequences also include hospitalizations for children up to three years after birth.
A significant rise in caesarean sections in late labour has led to an increase in impacted fetal head (IFH) injuries, resulting in minor damage, lifelong consequences, or even death. New devices like the Tydeman tube and training approaches aim to improve management of this obstetric emergency.
A new study found that COVID-19 pandemic babies had communication skill gaps at age 2, with a larger proportion scoring below standardised cut-offs for developmental concern. Despite this, most developmental and behavioral outcomes were comparable to pre-pandemic born babies.
A new study calls for collaborative efforts to improve probiotic manufacturing standards for preterm infants. The authors propose five action areas to optimize the safety of probiotic products, including collaboration between clinicians, pharmacies, and manufacturers.
Research shows that households participating in both WIC and SNAP consume high amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages. Mothers with young children who rely on these programs drank SSBs 8.7 times/week, compared to 4.5 times/week for those not participating in either program.
Mothers with a criminal record and care experience face negative judgements and excessive scrutiny due to their 'known' status. The study emphasizes the need for supportive dialogue across disciplinary boundaries to break cycles of stigma and social care involvement, focusing on safe spaces and trust-building for care-experienced mothers.
Researchers at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago have developed a non-invasive approach to predict retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in premature infants. Nailbed capillaroscopy identifies high-risk patients, eliminating the need for invasive eye exams.