Factors in Neonatal Resistance to Anoxia. I. Temperature and Survival of Newborn Guinea Pigs Under Anoxia

Abstract

Guinea pigs 24 hrs. old or less which were cooled by wetting in 95% alcohol which was then evaporated in air current from electric fan until the rectal temp, of animals dropped 2-5[degree]C, showed greater percentage survival after 4 or 4.5 min. exposure to atmosphere of 95% N2 and 5% CO2, and survived for a longer period in such atmosphere than did littermates kept at room temp, or incubated before exposure to anoxia. These observations cast doubt on the advisability of standard treatment of anoxic babies in which they are placed in warmed bassinet or incubator.