The Incubator

Send us a textDiscover the relentless pursuit of dreams and the power of resilience through the eyes of Dr. Joann Romano-Keeler, a neonatologist, scientist, and a loving mother who navigated through the hurdles life threw at her. Despite the odds and roadblocks, Joann's story serves as an embodiment of determination, from her childhood fascination for science during the AIDS epidemic, to her dream of becoming a physician, and finally, to her return to science to help kids like her own special-needs son. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textGeoanna Bautista is an assistant professor and neonatologist at UC Davis.  Geoanna's conversation is a testament to the power of collaboration in tackling neonatal diseases. As she highlights, the need to work with peers, stakeholders, and merge the basic scientists and clinical researchers' work is vital. Geoanna's insights on the gut's role in various diseases and the potential of big data and artificial intelligence in this field are thought-provoking. Brace yourself for a deep dive into the world of neonatology as she touches on the revolutionary ideas being translated into practice and her anticipation for the future developments in the field. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textWhat if a diagnosis deemed to be a death sentence was not? That's precisely what Darren from the University of Pittsburgh Mental Center is here to discuss with us. He shares his fascinating research, redefining the narrative around nec totalis - a condition widely believed to be incompatible with life. Darren's data, spanning from 2010 to 2022, illustrates a different reality. Among 494 diagnosed cases, there were survivors, challenging the gloom-and-doom prognosis often associated with this diagnosis. The conversation takes a deeper turn as we explore the ethical implications of providing life-sustaining therapy for necrotizing enterocolitis totalis. Darren emphasizes the need for center-specific treatment plans and open dialogue with families about potential therapeutic options, despite the survival rate being low. We also delve into the improvements in nec totalis care and discuss the significance of intestinal transplants. Don't miss this enlightening discussion where we redefine the boundaries of what was once thought impossible. Darren's insights will surely make you question conventional medical wisdom and show you the true power of relentless research and innovation. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textWe have the privilege of engaging with renowned Dr. Martin Blakely from Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Blakely, a passionate advocate for improving the outcomes of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), sheds light on how patient weight and illness severity factor into treatment decisions. He also presents valuable learnings from randomized trials that have evaluated the initial choice of laparotomy or drainage for NEC diagnosis. As an active board member of the NEC Society, Dr. Blakely shares his relentless pursuit for improved NEC outcomes through ground-breaking research.We unmask the importance of collaborative work in the realm of medical research. We unravel the significance of protocol development and the critical role it plays in advancing neonatology and pediatric surgery. The discussion highlights the essence of a multi-disciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals like radiologists.  So, tune in for a riveting journey into the world of pediatric surgery and research. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textGet ready to be enlightened as we sit down with the insightful Ravi Patel, a key figure in the Neck Society, to untangle the complexities of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) management. Tune in to hear Patel's take on the pressing need for standardized care amidst the uncertainties of NEC treatment; he shares thought-provoking insights into the duration of antibiotic treatment and the timing of feeding resumption. As we journey back in time, Patel offers a fascinating perspective on the historical context of antibiotic choices and the hurdles of decision-making in a landscape devoid of recent trials. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textWhat if we told you that the family's voice could change the face of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) advocacy and treatment? Well, that's exactly what we're diving into with our special guest, Dr. Susan Hintz. As we dig into the inspiring sessions from the NEC symposium, we reflect on the immense power of a strong partnership between parents and medical professionals. Dr. Hintz shares insights on risk factors and the ways we can enhance our support for families navigating this condition. Additionally, we spotlight the incredible advocative work of Kim Novod and Jen Canvasser, who've transformed the world of NEC care through their relentless efforts.As we move to the latter part of our discussion, we pose a critical question - are we truly understanding the long-term outcomes of NEC? We challenge the conventional two-year outcomes and advocate for a more comprehensive understanding of the implications on families in the long run. Dr. Hintz, during her enlightening session at the NEC Symposium, emphasizes the importance of meaningful questions and outcomes that resonate with families and survivors. We circle back to episode 106 of the Incubator podcast, highlighting the crucial aspect of neurological outcomes and long-term impacts into adulthood. As we wrap up, we take a moment to salute the mentors who've molded our understanding of NEC and motivated us to continually strive for better outcomes for families. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textWould you believe it if we told you that advocacy is as integral to Pediatrics as medical science and clinical care? That's what Mark Del Monte, the dynamic CEO and Executive VP of the American Academy of Pediatrics, brings to the table in this enlightening conversation. The power of individual stories, the quest for small wins, and the importance of creating moments for change are just some of the riveting insights Mark shares, underlining that advocacy isn't just a side aspect, but a crucial part of the mix that propels the field of Pediatrics forward.We find out why Mark is a firm believer in the transformative power of storytelling in the realm of child health advocacy. Drawing from history, Mark elucidates how stories have been instrumental in stirring change and why it’s pivotal for organizations like the AAP to assert their presence at venues like the NEC symposium. In the end, he leaves us with a powerful notion: advocacy is a series of moments that, together, create a brighter future for children and families. You don't want to miss this one; join us as we explore the multidimensional world of Pediatrics with Mark Del Monte. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textHave you ever felt the power of a story? That's exactly what unfolded in our heartfelt conversation with Erin as she shared her profound personal journey with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Her world was turned upside down when baby Sarah, born prematurely and diagnosed with NEC, tragically passed away. This devastating loss sparked a mission in Erin. Her dedication to raising awareness about this life-threatening disease is a testament to her strength and resilience.To conclude our conversation, we tackled a topic often overlooked - the need for robust support for bereaved parents and families. Our guests illuminated how essential it is to continue care for the family unit after the loss of a baby. We also examined the profound impact of small acts of kindness from healthcare providers. Erin’s heartfelt appreciation for the caregivers in the NICU was palpable, reminding us of the precious lives we are fighting for and reinforcing the importance of sharing stories like Sarah's. So join us, as we navigate the challenging terrain of NEC, and explore how each of us can contribute to this vital cause. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textWill you stay in research? That's the question facing many young scientists today. We've invited Daphne, a young scientist who found her answer through the NEC Society Mentorship Program where she was paired with Dr. Misty Good. They regularly meet to discuss their shared passion for studying necrotizing enterocolitis. https://necsociety.org/nec-society-research-incubator/ As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textEver pondered how societal factors, not just medical ones, could significantly influence breastfeeding patterns? Dr. Aloka Patel joins us for an eye-opening dialogue pinpointing racial disparities in breastfeeding, especially in NICU scenarios. With her profound knowledge and passion, she makes us comprehend how educating staff, consistent communication about the sundry benefits of breastmilk, and ensuring resource availability could remarkably enhance the breastfeeding culture.This episode will take you through an emotional voyage as we uncover the struggles faced by mothers striving to produce sufficient milk for their infants. The spotlight is thrown on the disparities between Black and White mothers. Listen to Dr. Patel's riveting narratives about the innovative interventions on the anvil to alleviate the burden of providing breast milk. From offering breast pumps, milk couriers to compensating mothers for their time and milk, these strategies promise to revolutionize the experience of breastfeeding. The anecdotes from Dr. Patel's life underscore her dedication to reducing obstacles to breastfeeding.In a key segment of our discussion, we touch upon our societal tardiness in initiating dialogues about breastfeeding. Hear about an innovative pilot project in Chicago schools aimed at demystifying breastfeeding. The project engaging boys and girls in the fifth grade has received an overwhelmingly positive response. Our conversation isn't complete without emphasizing the significant role of advocacy work and neonatologists in community outreach. So, lend us your ears and join us in the journey to normalize breastfeeding. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!