He L, Harold SF, Frydrysiak–Brzozowska A. Connection Starts in the Cradle. Newborn 2026; 5(2):iv-x. DOI: 10.5005/newborn-5-2-iv.

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Huseynova R, Khasanova S, Quiles-Corona M, Korde S, Frydrysiak-Brzozowska A, Michie C. Podcasts and Scientific Journals: We Need Both. Newborn 2026;5(2):65–71. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0161.

 

Abstract:

Podcasts and academic journals are increasingly recognized and applied as complementary pillars of modern scholarly communication, together reshaping how scientific knowledge is produced, shared, and applied. Journals remain the foundation of academic rigor, ensuring that research is peer-reviewed, methodologically sound, and credible, thereby forming the basis of evidence-based practice across disciplines. However, the traditional journal format often limits accessibility due to technical language, paywalls, and static presentation. Podcasts address these limitations by translating complex research into accessible, narrative-driven, and conversational formats that can reach clinicians, trainees, policymakers, and the general public in a more engaging and timely manner. The integration of these media creates a powerful ecosystem for knowledge translation, where journals provide depth and authority, and podcasts can add clarity, context, and reach. This collaboration takes multiple forms, including journal-sponsored podcasts that feature author interviews and editorial commentary, audio abstracts that summarize key findings, panel discussions that explore interdisciplinary perspectives, and conference coverage that extends the impact of scientific meetings beyond physical attendance. These formats not only enhance understanding of research methodology and clinical implications but also promote lifelong learning through continuing medical education (CME) opportunities embedded within podcast content. Furthermore, podcasts are valued tools in public science communication, simplifying complex findings and helping counter misinformation, particularly in fields such as public health, environmental science, and emerging technologies. In global and resource-limited settings, downloadable podcast content improves equitable access to up-to-date medical knowledge, reducing disparities in education and clinical practice. Cross-promotion across digital platforms, including social media, journal websites, and newsletters, further amplifies engagement and drives readers between audio content and full-text articles. Multimedia integration, where podcasts are embedded within journal platforms alongside visual abstracts and video summaries, supports diverse learning preferences and enhances user interaction with research. Overall, the convergence of podcasts and journals represents a significant evolution in scholarly communication, fostering a more inclusive, dynamic, and participatory model that strengthens both the dissemination and application of scientific evidence in real-world contexts.

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​Key scientific associations: podcasts, journals, collaboration, scholarly communication, knowledge dissemination, peer-review, evidence-based practice, knowledge translation, accessibility, engagement, narrative,  storytelling, clinical education, medical education, empowering mothers, multimodal, digital publishing, audio abstracts,  author interviews, editorial commentary, continuing medical education (CME), professional development, public engagement, science communication, cross-platform, social media, cross-promotion, audience expansion, interdisciplinary, panel discussions, expert dialogue, methodology, clinical implications, research dissemination, open access, journal-sponsored podcasts, audio learning,  non-specialist audiences, health communication, global health, resource-limited settings, offline access, equity, mentorship, early-career researchers, trainees, digital ecosystems, multimedia, integration, visual abstracts, conference coverage, scholarly impact.

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Kaushal M, Balla KC, Ponnazhagan S. World Quantum Day 2026. 2026; 5 (2):72-80. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0157.

 

​Abstract:

World Quantum Day is an international initiative dedicated to promoting public understanding of quantum science and technology. Celebrated annually on April 14, the date reflects the first three digits of Planck's constant (expressed as 4.14 × 10−15 electronvolt-seconds). The word quantum refers to the smallest discrete unit of a physical quantity that can be exchanged or measured. Quantum science developed during the early 20th century. Pioneers such as Max Planck, Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, and Erwin Schrödinger developed theories explaining how energy and matter behave at atomic and subatomic scales. Medical applications of quantum mechanics include imaging such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography; tissue imaging in microscopy, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine; drug discovery; quantum communication and cybersecurity; education and public outreach, decision-making, and the development of new computational systems. In this review, we present an updated overview of quantum computing based on an extensive literature review using the databases PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus.

 

​​Key scientific associations: quantum science, quantum mechanics, Planck’s constant, waves and particles, particle-like entity, Eigenvalues, qubits, superposition, entanglement, positron-emitting radioactive isotope, fluorine-18, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, quantum tunneling, fluorescence microscopy, quantum optics, confocal laser scanning microscopy, Laser-based imaging systems, optical coherence tomography, intensity-modulated radiation therapy, proton beam therapy, radioactive isotopes, Positron Emission Tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, cybersecurity, Quantum Key Distribution, public-key encryption systems, RSA, quantum workforce, state space, quantum probability, Grover’s algorithm, search optimization, quantum cognition, speculative neuroscience.

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Khare AK. World Down Syndrome Day 2026. There is a Need to Work “Together Against Loneliness”. Newborn 2026;5(2):81-85. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0160. 

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Abstract: World Down Syndrome Day 2026, observed on 21 March, adopts the theme “Together Against Loneliness,” highlighting the urgent need to address social isolation among individuals with Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Individuals with Down syndrome experience loneliness at rates up to seven times higher than the general population, with prevalence reaching approximately 44.7% in some studies. This loneliness, comparable in health risk to smoking 15 cigarettes daily, stems primarily from social exclusion rather than the condition itself and contributes significantly to anxiety, depression, and diminished quality of life. This narrative review outlines the etiology and clinical features of Down syndrome, emphasizing proactive multidisciplinary medical management—including timely cardiac evaluation, respiratory and endocrine surveillance, and hematologic monitoring—to optimize health and facilitate social participation. It further examines lifespan care following American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines, psychosocial support strategies, and the transformative role of inclusive education, social skills training, supported employment, and community programs. Global success stories of individuals with Down syndrome in arts, sports, education, and public life illustrate the potential unlocked through genuine inclusion. The article concludes with a call for collective action among families, clinicians, educators, employers, and policymakers to move beyond physical integration toward meaningful belonging, advocating systemic changes that uphold the human right to connection and dignity for every individual with Down syndrome.

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​​Key scientific associations: Anxiety, Chromosomal disorder, Depression, Down syndrome, Inclusive environment, Infant, Intellectual and developmental disabilities, Loneliness, Multidisciplinary care, Neonate, Newborn, Psychosocial support, Social exclusion, Social skills training, Trisomy 21.

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Maheshwari A, El-Atawi K, Ayad AB, Lui K, Garcia JG, Ponnazhagan S. Developmental Deficiency of Coagulation Factor VII in Neonates: Our Current Understanding. 2026; 5 (2):86-103. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0162. 

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Abstract: Factor VII (FVII) is a vitamin K-dependent glycoprotein that serves as the principal initiator of the extrinsic coagulation pathway through its interaction with tissue factor (TF). Following vascular injury, TF binds and activates circulating FVII, generating the TF–FVIIa complex that promotes thrombin generation and fibrin clot formation. Neonates have physiologically reduced concentrations of FVII, typically 20–50% of adult values, rendering them vulnerable to hemorrhagic complications, particularly in the presence of prematurity, vitamin K deficiency, sepsis, liver dysfunction, or severe illness. This review summarizes the molecular biology, structure, activation, evolutionary origins, and clinical significance of FVII, with a particular emphasis on neonatal hemostasis. Factor VII is synthesized in the liver and undergoes extensive post-translational modification, including vitamin K-dependent γ-carboxylation that is essential for calcium-mediated membrane binding and coagulation activity. The protein contains a γ-carboxyglutamate-rich domain, two epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains, and a catalytic serine protease domain that together mediate TF binding and activation of factors IX and X. Evolutionary analyses indicate that FVII emerged in early jawed vertebrates and has remained highly conserved for more than 400 million years, reflecting its critical role in hemostatic regulation. Recombinant activated FVII (rFVIIa; eptacog alfa) has become an important therapeutic agent for congenital FVII deficiency, hemophilia with inhibitors, and selected cases of severe hemorrhage. In neonates, rFVIIa is increasingly used off-label as rescue therapy for refractory bleeding associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), cardiac surgery, pulmonary hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), thrombocytopenia, and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Available evidence suggests that rFVIIa can reduce bleeding and transfusion requirements, although randomized neonatal trials remain lacking. Potential thromboembolic complications necessitate careful patient selection and monitoring. More studies are needed to define optimal dosing, establish safety profiles, and clarify the role of rFVIIa in neonatal and pediatric hemostatic disorders.

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​Key scientific associations: Coagulation factor VII, Factor VIIa (FVIIa) , eptacog alfa, universal hemostatic agent, , hemophilia, factor VIII and factor IX inhibitors, prothrombin, thrombin, Fibrinogen, Factor Xa,  factor VIII, factor XIII, von Willibrand factor, fibronectin, hemophilia A, cryoprecipitate, vitamin K, fresh frozen plasma, NovoSeven, prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, bleeding time, platelets, Food and drug administration, extrinsic pathway, tissue-factor, off-label use, Inherited factor VII deficiency, refractory hemorrhage, intracranial hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, cardiopulmonary bypass, surgery, JAMA, thrombosis, disseminated intravascular coagulation.

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Michie C. Unseen Children: Risks and Anticipatory Management. Newborn 2026;5(2):104-108. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0158. 

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Abstract: “Unseen children” represent a persistent global public health concern, encompassing infants and children who fail to attend scheduled healthcare or educational encounters and are frequently coded as “Did Not Attend” (DNA) or more appropriately “Was Not Brought” (WNB). These children are vulnerable by definition, as missed appointments may result in delayed immunization, impaired growth monitoring, and unmet developmental needs. Non-attendance may also signal broader safeguarding concerns, including social disadvantage, family dysfunction, mobility, and exposure to neglect, abuse, or displacement. Importantly, WNB is associated with substantial service-level impacts, including increased healthcare costs, inefficiencies, and delayed identification of children requiring medical attention, with a significant proportion of non-attenders later presenting to acute services. Rates of pediatric non-attendance vary across health systems, generally lower in coordinated universal care systems and higher in fragmented or socioeconomically unequal contexts. Socioeconomic deprivation, language barriers, and access difficulties are key determinants. In some cases, cultural, religious, or trust-related factors may further influence engagement with healthcare systems. System-level factors, including fragmented communication, inadequate follow-up processes, and normalization of non-attendance, may contribute to some children becoming invisible within healthcare pathways. Reframing DNA as WNB emphasizes caregiver responsibility while reinforcing professional accountability to identify and support at-risk families. Effective responses require proactive, community-based strategies, including outreach nursing, integrated social and health services, flexible scheduling, and culturally sensitive engagement. Strengthening safeguarding frameworks, improving interagency coordination, and promoting visibility of vulnerable children are essential. Ultimately, addressing unseen children requires a shift toward compassionate, child-centered systems that recognize absence itself as a clinically and socially meaningful signal requiring action.

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Key scientific associations: Child abuse, Child labor, Child-centered safeguarding, Community outreach, Coordinated sibling scheduling, Did not attend, Disabilities, Family-centered care models, First Nations children, Flexible appointment times, Housing instability, Infant, Language barriers, Migration, Nursing engagement, Pediatric clinic non-attendance rates, Podcast-discussion, Poverty, Reminder systems, Telemedicine options, Trafficking, Transportation support, Ultra-orthodox or separatist communities, United National Children’s Fund, Violence.

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Ravishankar K, Rishika K. Fetal Hydrops, Meconium Peritonitis, and Distal Ileal Atresia in a Neonate with a Homozygous Fanconi Anemia FANCG Splice Variant: A Case Report. 2026; 5 (2):109-112. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0159.

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Abstract: Fanconi anemia (FA) is a clinically heterogeneous disorder of DNA repair associated with bone marrow failure, malignancies, and congenital malformations. While gastrointestinal (GI) anomalies such as duodenal and anal atresias are recognized in the FA spectrum, jejunoileal atresias presenting with fetal hydrops are rare. We report the case of a male infant born to consanguineous parents who presented prenatally with nonimmune hydrops fetalis and postnatally with meconium peritonitis. Surgical exploration revealed distal ileal atresia with necrosis. The patient also exhibited left preaxial polydactyly. Whole exome sequencing (WES) identified a homozygous likely pathogenic 5’ splice site variant in the Fanconi anemia complementation group gene (FANCG) (c.307+1G>T). Fanconi anemia complementation group mutations are associated with a severe clinical phenotype and high risk of early-onset bone marrow failure. This case highlights the rare presentation of distal ileal atresia and meconium peritonitis in FANCG-associated FA, supporting the hypothesis that defective DNA repair and endothelial fragility may predispose fetuses to vascular disruption sequences. Early genetic diagnosis in neonates with atypical GI atresias and skeletal anomalies is critical for guiding perioperative management and initiating long-term hematologic surveillance.

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Key scientific associations: Atypical gastrointestinal atresias, Bone marrow failure, Congenital anemia, DNA repair, Endothelial fragility, ERCC1-XPF endonuclease, FANCG gene, FANCG gene (c.307+1G>T; ENST00000378643.8), Fanconi anemia complementation group G, Hematologic surveillance, Hydrops fetalis, Intestinal necrosis, Meconium peritonitis, Monoubiquitination of the FANCD2/FANCI heterodimer, Neonate, Newborn, Polydactyly, Repair of DNA interstrand cross-links, Skeletal anomalies, VACTERL-H association (vertebral, anal, cardiac, tracheo-esophageal, renal, limb anomalies, and hydrocephalus), Vascular disruption sequences.

 

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Jain N. Neonates with Persistent Fever, Omphalitis, and Hepatomegaly Need should be Evaluated for a Liver Abscess. 2026; 5 (2):113-117. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0155.

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Abstract:

Background: Liver abscess is a rare diagnosis in neonates but it can be associated with serious complications and high mortality. Very little is known about the risk factors, management, and complications; and hence, a high level of suspicion and careful screening is needed. Objectives: We present a retrospective case-series of six infants with fever, sepsis, omphalitis, and liver abscess. Study design: These infants were admitted in our newborn unit between March 2020 and February 2025 for persistent fever, omphalitis, hepatomegaly, and signs of sepsis were found to have one/more liver abscess(es). We present their demographics and clinical presentation, predisposing factors, laboratory investigations, imaging findings, and clinical course/outcomes. Observations: The six neonates admitted with fever, omphalitis, and hepatomegaly were born at a gestational age of average 36.6 weeks (range 34–39) with a birth weight of 3.3 (3.1–4.2 kg). The postnatal age at admission was average 18.5 (10–27 days). None had a history of umbilical catheterization. Abdominal distension with paralytic ileus was noted in four and signs of inflammation on the abdominal wall were evident in one. Three had clinical features of peritonitis. One had septic shock at admission. Sonography showed multiple liver abscesses in three patients and a one abscess was notable in the other three. The right lobe was involved in five patients with abscesses measuring 1–5 cm. Four patients tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus in blood or pus; the isolates were methicillin-resistant in four and methicillin-sensitivein one. All infants were initiated empirically on vancomycin with clindamycin at admission, which was then later modified on the basis of sensitivity reports. Three infants who showed clinical findings suggestive of peritonitis had at least one ruptured liver abscess and underwent operative management. All patients were followed sonographically for abscess resolution; two developed portal cavernomas. Conclusion: Neonates admitted with fever, omphalitis, and hepatomegaly should be evaluated for a liver abscess. A high index of suspicion is required for timely diagnosis. Long-term follow-up is required to monitor the risk of portal cavernomas and portal hypertension.

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Key scientific associations: Community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus, Infant, Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Methicillin-sensitive staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), Neonatal liver abscess, Neonate, Newborn, Omphalitis, Portal cavernoma, Portal hypertension.

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Bagga N, Kaushal M, Bandiya P, Bhartiya S, Corona MQ. Radiological Case Report: Duodenal Atresia in Down Syndrome. 2026; 5 (2):118-122. DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0156.

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Abstract: Down syndrome (DS) has a strong and well-established epidemiologic association with duodenal atresia, making it one of the classic congenital anomalies linked to chromosomal disorders. Duodenal atresia occurs in approximately one in 5,000–10,000 live births in the general population, but about 20–30% of all infants born with duodenal atresia have DS. Here, we present our observations from the clinical course of an infant with phenotypic features of DS. He started vomiting at 24 hours after birth, and an abdominal radiograph showed a classical “double bubble” sign. He was treated surgically with a duodenoduodenostomy where the proximal and distal segments of the duodenum were connected to bypass the atretic segment and restore continuity in the small intestine. The infant had a reasonably stable postnatal course. In this article, we have summarized our current understanding of the clinical-radiological correlation and the likely molecular mechanisms of DS-related duodenal atresia, involving the two dosage-sensitive genes on chromosome 21, dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation–regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) and regulator of calcineurin 1 (RCAN1); overexpression of these two genes disrupts key developmental pathways involving Wnt/β-catenin, sonic hedgehog (SHH), and fibroblast growth factor (FGF). These disruptions impair epithelial proliferation, apoptosis, and remodeling during embryonic duodenal recanalization, leading to luminal obstruction.

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Key scientific associations: BCL-2 homologous antagonist/killer, BCL-2 associated X-protein, B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2, calcineurin, cell-cycle regulators, Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, chromosome 21, Duodenal recanalization, Dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation–regulated kinase 1A, E-cadherin.