Observations on the Vitality of the Newborn

Abstract

In an attempt to find some objective index of vitality, which has been defined as"the ability to thrive and endure," 4 functions of the newborn normal infant have been studied: 1) the mean effective pressure of sucking; 2) the muscular power index, defined as the max. power developed by a single muscular contraction; 3) the pull factor, indicative of sustained muscular action; 4) coordination.