Participants in this arm (n=80) received:

1. Sustained lung inflation (SLI) manoeuvre(s) was applied once or twice, based on the protocol algorithm.

   Within the first 60 seconds of life, assessment for the need of advanced resuscitation (defined as the need for more than oxygen and tactile stimulation during resuscitation) was done;

   • Infants who needed advanced resuscitation were considered to receive SLI as a rescue approach.
   • Infants who needed only oxygen and tactile stimulation were considered to receive SLI as a prophylactic approach.

2. Then Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) was given through an ETT, if intubation was needed.

Participants in this arm (n=80) received:

1. Resuscitation according to the American academy of pediatrics guidelines.
2. Then Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) was given through an ETT, if intubation was needed.

SLI was given using a peak pressure of 20 cm H₂O sustained for 15 seconds,using a T-piece resuscitator, Neopuff device

Treatment failure; defined as the need for intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation or death

The duration of intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation (in days)