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Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Application of an Amplitude-integrated EEG Monitor (Cerebral Function Monitor) to Neonates

Application of an Amplitude-integrated EEG Monitor (Cerebral Function Monitor) to Neonates

Published on: September 6, 2017

Basic consciousness of the newborn.

Hugo Lagercrantz¹, Jean-Pierre Changeux

¹Neonatal Research Unit, Karolinska Institute, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Hugo.lagercrantz@ki.se

Seminars in Perinatology

|May 25, 2010

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Newborn infants exhibit basic consciousness, processing sensory input and emotions. This suggests awareness of self and the external world from birth, with preterm infants showing limited consciousness around 25 weeks.

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Preterm EEG: A Multimodal Neurophysiological Protocol

Preterm EEG: A Multimodal Neurophysiological Protocol

Published on: February 18, 2012

Area of Science:

Neonatal consciousness research
Developmental neuroscience
Infant cognitive development

Background:

Consciousness is traditionally considered a hallmark of mature cognitive function.
The presence and extent of consciousness in newborns, particularly preterm infants, remain areas of active investigation.
Understanding neonatal awareness is crucial for developmental and clinical perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the criteria for consciousness in newborn infants.
To explore the developmental timeline of consciousness, including in preterm infants.
To determine if newborns meet basic criteria for awareness.

Main Methods:

Observational assessment of newborn behaviors indicative of consciousness.
Review of neurological correlates of consciousness, such as cortical processing.
Analysis of infant responses to sensory stimuli and emotional expressions.
Examination of memory recall from fetal exposure.

Main Results:

Newborns demonstrate wakefulness and self-awareness, interacting with their mothers.
Processing of olfactory and pain stimuli occurs in the cortex, a key area for consciousness.
Infants display primary emotions (joy, disgust, surprise) and recall fetal learning.
Preterm infants may achieve limited consciousness around 25 weeks gestation with thalamocortical connection development.

Conclusions:

Newborn infants meet the criteria for a basic level of consciousness.
Neonatal consciousness involves awareness of self, body, and the external environment.
Thalamocortical development is a potential marker for the onset of limited consciousness in preterm infants.