Neonatal adaptation

What does the term 'altricial' mean?

born weak, have a large litter size, high maternal care needs, and poor homeostatic control.

What does 'precocial' mean?

long gestation period, small litter size, immediate ambulation, and lesser maternal care needs.

What is the foramen ovale, and what changes occur at birth?

small gap in heart septum between atria that allows mixing of blood in foetus.

closes to increase lung circulation and pressure in the left atrium.

What is the ductus arteriosus? When does this close and why?

small vessel connecting pulmonary artery and aorta

closes by 24 hours old in response to oxygenated blood to prevent mixing of blood.

What happens to the umbilical vein and arteries after birth?

The umbilical vein collapses and the arteries contract when the cord ruptures.

When do alveoli begin to form in altricial vs precocial species?

A - post-partum

P - pre-partum

What role does surfactant play in the lungs of neonates?

Prevents alveoli collapse

What are stimuli for respiration in neonate?

Air on nares

hypoxia

hypoxaemia

hypercapnia

tactile stimulus

temperature drop

What is a characteristic change of the gastrointestinal system in neonates?

Gut flora takes weeks to form and is kick-started by milk.

How does the liver change from prenatal to postnatal life?

The liver changes from blood formation to metabolic functions in the newborn.

What immunity are neonates born with?

Lymphoid cells, including T cells and B lymphocytes, are present at birth as part of the immune system.

What is the typical renal function change in neonates postpartum?

Increased GFR and production of large volumes of hypotonic urine occur after birth.

What reflex appears quickly in neonates?

Sucking associated reflexes kick in quickly after birth.

How do foals thermoregulate?

Foals have lots of endogenous glycogen to burn to generate heat.

What essential tasks must a neonate perform to survive?

Breathing, conscious muscle control, sight, reflexes, and some thermoregulation are essential for neonates.

List body features that may indicate prematurity.

Eruption of incisors not occurring, tendon laxity, coat not fully formed, and floppy ear pinna are indicators of prematurity.

What are the signs of terminal asphyxia in neonates

HR >50

poor perfusion and body tone

anaemic

poor / no response to stimuli

How do ruminants thermoregulate?

burning of brown fat cells

What is the first poo called and what does this contain

Meconium

water, hair, bile, epithelial cells, fat, amniotic fluid