Birth Weight Z-score Research Articles

Maternal mitochondrial DNA copy number and methylation as possible predictors of pregnancy outcomes in a Michigan pregnancy cohort

ABSTRACT Background: Little is understood about the role of mitochondria in pregnancy-related adaptations. Therefore, we evaluated associations of maternal early-to-mid pregnancy mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and mtDNA methylation with birth size and gestational length. Methods: Michigan women (n=396) provided venous bloodspots at median 11 weeks gestation to quantify mtDNAcn marker NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase chain 1 (ND1) using real-time quantitative PCR and mtDNA methylation at several regions within four mitochondria-specific genes using pyrosequencing: MTTF (mitochondrially encoded tRNA phenylalanine), DLOOP (D-loop promoter region, heavy strand), CYTB (cytochrome b), and LDLR (D-loop promoter region, light strand). We abstracted gestational length and birthweight from birth certificates and calculated birthweight z-scores using published references. We used multivariable linear regression to evaluate associations of mtDNAcn and mtDNA methylation with birthweight and birthweight z-scores. Cox Proportional Hazards Models (PHMs) and quantile regression characterized associations of mitochondrial measures with gestational length. We also considered differences by fetal sex. Results: Using linear regression and Cox PHMs, mtDNAcn was not associated with birth outcomes, whereas associations of mtDNA methylation with birth outcomes were inconsistent. However, using quantile regression, mtDNAcn was associated with shorter gestation in female newborns at the upper quantiles of gestational length, but with longer gestational length in males at the lower quantiles of gestational length. Maternal LDLR, DLOOP, and MTTF methylation was associated with longer gestational length in females at the upper quantiles and in males at lower gestational length quantiles. Conclusions: Maternal mtDNAcn and mtDNA methylation were associated with gestational length in babies born comparatively early or late, which could reflect adaptations in mitochondrial processes that regulate the length of gestation.

Birth outcomes following bictegravir exposure during pregnancy.

Bictegravir is increasingly prescribed as a co-formulated tablet with tenofovir alafenamide and emtricitabine to pregnant persons with HIV (PWH) despite limited pregnancy and birth outcome data. We sought to provide birth outcome data following exposure to bictegravir during pregnancy. We conducted a descriptive analysis of infants born to pregnant PWH 18-45 years of age enrolled in at least one Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study (PHACS)-affiliated study who received bictegravir for ≥7 days during pregnancy and completed follow-up through delivery. The outcomes of interest were gestational age at birth, preterm birth (<37 weeks' gestation), gestational-age adjusted birth weight (BWZ) and length (BLZ) z-scores, small for gestational age (SGA, birthweight <10th percentile), congenital anomalies, neonatal deaths in the first 28 days of life, and infant HIV status. A total of 177 infants born to 170 unique PWH were exposed to bictegravir for ≥7 days during gestation; 55% were exposed to bictegravir from the time of conception. Median gestational age at birth was 38.1 weeks. The prevalence of preterm birth was 15.8% and SGA was 9.3%. Mean BWZ and BLZ were -0.48 and 0.03. No neonatal deaths or perinatal HIV transmissions were reported. Among 126 infants exposed to first-trimester bictegravir, 7 (5.6%) had major congenital anomalies with no specific pattern suggestive of a syndrome. These findings provide preliminary data without significant safety concerns for fetal bictegravir exposure in this United States cohort. Comparative data and continued surveillance of outcomes among infants exposed to bictegravir during gestation are warranted.

7135 Changes in 11-oxygenated androgens in healthy prepubertal children from ages 4, 6, to 8 years: a prospective cohort study

Abstract Disclosure: Y. Lee: None. K. Lee: None. J. Kim: None. Y. Lim: None. J.I. Kim: None. B. Kim: None. Y. Hong: None. J. Song: None. C. Shin: None. Y. Lee: None. Background: 11-oxygenated androgens (11-oxyandrogens) have been recognized for their important role in adrenarche or androgen excess conditions. However, the trajectory during childhood remains understudied. Herein, we examined the longitudinal changes in 11-oxyandrogens among healthy prepubertal children. Methods: In an ongoing prospective cohort study, 172 prepubertal children with available blood samples at the ages of 4, 6, and 8 years were included. Serum concentrations of 14 adrenal androgens and precursors, including dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA-sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione (A4), testosterone (T), 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4), 11-ketoandrostenedione (11KA4), 11β-hydroxytestosterone (11OHT), and 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) were assessed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze the changes in adrenal androgens across age groups. Linear mixed model analysis was used to evaluate factors associated with adrenal hormone levels during 4 to 8 years of age. Results: Among 172 prepubertal children (107 boys, 65 girls), 11OHA4 was the predominant 11-oxyandrogen, exceeding concentrations of DHEA or A4. Serum 11KT level was higher than testosterone level from 6 years of age. Across age 4, 6, and 8 years, 11-oxyandrogens showed an increasing trend. Trajectories of 11OHA4, 11KA4, and 11KT significantly differed by sex (p for interaction &amp;lt; 0.05). Serum levels of 11OHA4 and 11KT consistently increased from 4, 6, to 8 years in both sexes, while 11OHT increased during 6-8 years (p &amp;lt; 0.05 for all). Serum 11KA4 levels increased during 4-6 years in boys and 6-8 years in girls (p &amp;lt; 0.05 for all). Girls showed higher levels of 11OHA4, 11KA4 at 4 years, 11OHT at 6 years, and 11KT at 4 and 6 years. Regarding classic adrenal androgens, DHEA, DHEAS, and A4 also exhibited increases in different patterns between sexes (p for interaction &amp;lt; 0.05) during 4-8 years. Girls had higher serum DHEA and A4 levels at 4 and 6 years, and DHEAS levels at 4 years (p &amp;lt; 0.05 for all). In boys, lower gestational age, lower birth weight z-score, and higher body mass index (BMI) z-score were correlated with elevated levels of DHEA and DHEA-S. Additionally, a higher BMI z-score was associated with increased levels of A4, 11OHT, and 11KT (p &amp;lt; 0.05 for all, multivariable models). In girls, a higher BMI z-score was linked to elevated DHEA levels, while a higher birth weight z-score was associated with increased A4 levels (p &amp;lt; 0.05 for all, multivariable models). Conclusion: In prepubertal children, 11-oxyandrogens showed increasing patterns similar to classic androgens, with sex-differences. Some 11-oxyandrogens were more predominant than classic androgens. This study suggests the importance of 11-oxyandrogens as biomarkers for zona reticularis development and adrenarche in prepubertal children. Presentation: 6/3/2024

8331 Melatonin is associated with higher placental weight and higher birth weight

Abstract Disclosure: U. Kampmann: Grant Recipient; Self; Novo Nordisk, Ulla Kampmann. Speaker; Self; Merck, Novo Nordisk. E.S. Lauritzen: None. S. Knorr: None. M. Bjerre: None. L.J. Goodyear: None. R. Middelbeek: None. J. Kusuyama: None. J. Fuglsang: None. P. Ovesen: Grant Recipient; Self; Novo Nordisk. M. Møller: None. Background and aim: Melatonin is both a neuroendocrine hormone which regulates circadian rhythm and an antioxidant. Melatonin is primarily produced in the pineal gland but also in the placenta and the role of melatonin in pregnancy is emerging. We examined melatonin levels during pregnancy and performed correlations with placental weight, birth weight and birth weight Z-score as markers of placental function. Material and methods: Blood samples were obtained in each trimester of pregnancy from a cohort of 400 pregnant women, followed at a Danish University Hospital. Data on pre-gestational BMI, smoking status, placental weight, birth weight and Z-score were collected. Melatonin, and biomarkers of oxidative stress: SOD3, CD 163 and CRP were measured on blood samples collected in the morning. Correlations were calculated using mixed models. Results: We included 372 healthy, singleton pregnancies. Melatonin levels increased significantly throughout pregnancy from 17.0 pg/mL (95% CI: 14.1 - 19.9) and 18.8 pg/mL (95% CI: 15.8 - 21.8) in the 1st and 2nd trimester, respectively, to 45.9 pg/mL (95% CI: 40.8 - 51.0) in the 3rd trimester. There was a significant positive correlation between the antioxidant enzyme SOD3 and melatonin throughout pregnancy with a coefficient of 0.15 (95% CI: 0.13 - 0.17) and there was a significant positive association between placental weight and melatonin (coefficient: 0.014 (95% CI: 0.000 - 0.028)) and Z-score and melatonin levels (coefficient: 1.95 (95% CI: 0.13 - 3.79)). This was however not significant when adjusting for smoking and pre-pregnancy BMI. Conclusion: The current study is to date, the largest study that have performed longitudinal measures of melatonin throughout pregnancy. Melatonin levels increase significantly during pregnancy and indicate that placenta is a major source of melatonin, that plays a protective role against oxidative stress in pregnancy. Presentation: 6/1/2024

8331 Melatonin is associated with higher placental weight and higher birth weight

Abstract Disclosure: U. Kampmann: Grant Recipient; Self; Novo Nordisk, Ulla Kampmann. Speaker; Self; Merck, Novo Nordisk. E.S. Lauritzen: None. S. Knorr: None. M. Bjerre: None. L.J. Goodyear: None. R. Middelbeek: None. J. Kusuyama: None. J. Fuglsang: None. P. Ovesen: Grant Recipient; Self; Novo Nordisk. M. Møller: None. Background and aim: Melatonin is both a neuroendocrine hormone which regulates circadian rhythm and an antioxidant. Melatonin is primarily produced in the pineal gland but also in the placenta and the role of melatonin in pregnancy is emerging. We examined melatonin levels during pregnancy and performed correlations with placental weight, birth weight and birth weight Z-score as markers of placental function. Material and methods: Blood samples were obtained in each trimester of pregnancy from a cohort of 400 pregnant women, followed at a Danish University Hospital. Data on pre-gestational BMI, smoking status, placental weight, birth weight and Z-score were collected. Melatonin, and biomarkers of oxidative stress: SOD3, CD 163 and CRP were measured on blood samples collected in the morning. Correlations were calculated using mixed models. Results: We included 372 healthy, singleton pregnancies. Melatonin levels increased significantly throughout pregnancy from 17.0 pg/mL (95% CI: 14.1 - 19.9) and 18.8 pg/mL (95% CI: 15.8 - 21.8) in the 1st and 2nd trimester, respectively, to 45.9 pg/mL (95% CI: 40.8 - 51.0) in the 3rd trimester. There was a significant positive correlation between the antioxidant enzyme SOD3 and melatonin throughout pregnancy with a coefficient of 0.15 (95% CI: 0.13 - 0.17) and there was a significant positive association between placental weight and melatonin (coefficient: 0.014 (95% CI: 0.000 - 0.028)) and Z-score and melatonin levels (coefficient: 1.95 (95% CI: 0.13 - 3.79)). This was however not significant when adjusting for smoking and pre-pregnancy BMI. Conclusion: The current study is to date, the largest study that have performed longitudinal measures of melatonin throughout pregnancy. Melatonin levels increase significantly during pregnancy and indicate that placenta is a major source of melatonin, that plays a protective role against oxidative stress in pregnancy. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, fetoplacental hemodynamics, and fetal growth

IntroductionThe impact of legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on fetal growth has been well studied, but assessments of next-generation PFAS and PFAS mixtures are sparse and the potential role of fetoplacental hemodynamics has not been studied. We aimed to evaluate associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and fetal growth and fetoplacental hemodynamics. MethodsWe included 747 pregnant women from the BiSC birth cohort (Barcelona, Spain (2018–2021)). Twenty-three PFAS were measured at 32 weeks of pregnancy in maternal plasma, of which 13 were present above detectable levels. Fetal growth was measured by ultrasound, as estimated fetal weight at 32 and 37 weeks of gestation, and weight at birth. Doppler ultrasound measurements for uterine (UtA), umbilical (UmA), and middle cerebral artery (MCA) pulsatility indices (PI), as well as the cerebroplacental ratio (CPR – ratio MCA to UmA), were obtained at 32 weeks to assess fetoplacental hemodynamics. We applied linear mixed effects models to assess the association between singular PFAS and longitudinal fetal growth and PI, and Bayesian Weighted Quantile Sum models to evaluate associations between the PFAS mixture and the aforementioned outcomes, controlled for the relevant covariates. ResultsSingle PFAS and the mixture tended to be associated with reduced fetal growth and CPR PI, but few associations reached statistical significance. Legacy PFAS PFOS, PFHpA, and PFDoDa were associated with statistically significant decreases in fetal weight z-score of 0.13 (95%CI (−0.22, −0.04), 0.06 (−0.10, 0.01), and 0.05 (−0.10, 0.00), respectively, per doubling of concentration. The PFAS mixture was associated with a non-statistically significant 0.09 decrease in birth weight z-score (95%CI −0.22, 0.04) per quartile increase. ConclusionThis study suggests that legacy PFAS may be associated with reduced fetal growth, but associations for next generation PFAS and for the PFAS mixture were less conclusive. Associations between PFAS and fetoplacental hemodynamics warrant further investigation.

Sustained decline in birth weight and increased rate of preterm infants born small for gestational age in Japan.

Birth weights have continued to decline in Japan in recent years. However, secular trend changes such as the birth weight relative to the week of gestation remain to be explored. This study aimed to determine the trends over time in mean birth weight and small for gestational age (SGA) rate for each gestational week. We used a large dataset of 27,015,792 births obtained from birth certificates between 1997 and 2021. Births from 22 to 41 weeks of gestation were evaluated in six groups (22-24, 25-27, 28-31, 32-33, 34-36, and 37-41 weeks of gestational age). For each group, secular trend changes in the z-scores calculated from standard birth weight values were assessed. Time trends in the proportion of SGA and mean birth weight z-scores were evaluated using the Cochran-Armitage trend test and linear regression analysis. Binomial logistic regression was performed to ascertain the effects of gestational age, sex, primiparity, number of births, and maternal age on the likelihood of SGA. The mean birth weight of preterm infants continued to decrease, and the z-score for mean birth weight decreased linearly, falling to -0.7 at 25-27 weeks of gestation from 1997-2001 (first period) to 2017-2021 (final period). Maternal age continued to increase from the first period to the last period for all weeks of gestation. There was a linear increase in the SGA rate in preterm infants born at <34 weeks. Odds ratios for the likelihood of SGA were 1.3 times higher for maternal age ≥40 years than that for 25-29 years (95% CI: 1.29-1.33, p < 0.001). In Japan, there has been a continuous decline in birth weight and an increase in the rate of preterm SGA infants.

Neonatal hyperinsulinism: a retrospective study of presentation and management in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit in the UK

ObjectiveReports of hyperinsulinism typically focus on infants managed by highly specialised services. However, neonates with hyperinsulinism are initially managed by neonatologists and often not referred to specialists. This study aimed...

Does Catch-Up Growth Come with a Cognitive Cost? Cognitive Outcome and Growth Patterns in Growth Discordant Identical Twins

To determine whether it is the magnitude of early postnatal catch-up growth (CUG) in response to fetal growth restriction (FGR) or the FGR itself that negatively impacts cognitive outcome in a model of monochorionic twins discordant for fetal growth. This analysis is part of the LEMON study, a cohort study including all monochorionic twins with selective FGR aged 3 through 17years. Growth measurements as documented by our primary care system were collected retrospectively. An age-appropriate neurodevelopmental test was performed generating a full-scale IQ (FSIQ). CUG at 2years was calculated as (weight [kg] at 2years-birth weight [kg]). We used a multivariable regression model investigating the association between FSIQ (outcome) and birth weight zscore, gestational age at birth and CUG at 2years (predictors). Generalized estimating equations accounted for the fact that observations between cotwins are not independent. Median age at follow-up of the 46 included twin pairs was 11 (IQR 8-13) years. Birth weight z score and gestational age at birth were significantly associated with FSIQ, with β-coefficients of 5.897 (95% CI 3.382-8.411), and 2.589 (95% CI 1.227-3.951), respectively (P<.0001). Adjusted for birth weight z score and gestational age, CUG in the first 2years after birth was not significantly associated with FSIQ (β-coefficient 0.108 [95% CI -1.373 to 1.590], P=.886). Our results, combining detailed growth measurements and neurodevelopmental follow-up in a discordant identical twin model, demonstrate that FGR itself rather than early postnatal CUG has negative consequences for cognitive development.

Validation of Variables for Use in Pediatric Obesity Risk Score Development in Demographically and Racially Diverse United States Cohorts

ObjectiveTo evaluate the performance of childhood obesity prediction models in four independent cohorts in the United States, using previously validated variables obtained easily from medical records as measured in different clinical settings. Study designData from four prospective cohorts, Latinx, Eating, and Diabetes (LEAD); Stress in Pregnancy Study (SIPS); Project Viva; and Center for the Health Assessment of Mothers and Children of Salinas (CHAMACOS) were used to test childhood obesity risk models and predict childhood obesity by ages 4 through 6, using five clinical variables (maternal age, maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index, birth weight Z-score, weight-for-age Z-score change, and breastfeeding), derived from a previously validated risk model and as measured in each cohort’s clinical setting. Multivariable logistic regression was performed within each cohort, and performance of each model was assessed based on discrimination and predictive accuracy. ResultsThe risk models performed well across all four cohorts, achieving excellent discrimination. The area under the receiver operator curve (AUROC) was 0.79 for CHAMACOS and Project Viva, 0.83 for SIPS, and 0.86 for LEAD. At a 50th percentile threshold, the sensitivity of the models ranged from 12 to 53%, and specificity was greater than or equal to 90%. The negative predictive values (NPV) were ≥ 80% for all cohorts, and the positive predictive values (PPV) ranged from 62-86%. ConclusionAll four risk models performed well in each independent and demographically diverse cohort, demonstrating the utility of these five variables for identifying children at high risk for developing early childhood obesity in the United States.

Early respiratory system reactance predicts respiratory outcomes in preterm infants: a retrospective, multicentre study.

This multicenter, international, retrospective study aims to investigate whether respiratory system reactance (Xrs) assessed by respiratory oscillometry on the 7th day of life is associated with respiratory outcomes in preterm infants below 32 weeks' gestation. Sinusoidal pressure oscillations (2-5 cmH2O peak-to-peak, 10 Hz) were superimposed on the positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). We assessed the association of Xrs z-score with the duration of respiratory support using linear regression and with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD, according to Jensen et al. 2019) using logistic regression. We used the likelihood ratio test to evaluate whether Xrs z-score adds significantly to clinical predictors, including gestational age (GA), birth weight (BW) and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) BPD prediction model. One hundred and thirty-seven infants (median (Q1, Q3) GA=28.43 (26.11, 30.29) weeks) were included; 44 (32%) developed BPD. Xrs z-score was significantly associated with the duration of respiratory support (R2=0.35). Xrs z-score was significantly higher in infants who developed BPD (p<0.001); the optimal cut-off value was 2.6, associated with 77% sensitivity and 80% specificity. In univariable analysis, per z-score increase in Xrs, the OR for BPD increased by 60% and the respiratory support by eight days. In multivariable analysis, Xrs z-score added significantly to the NICHD model and to GA and BW z-score to predict respiratory support duration (p=0.016 and p=0.014, respectively) and BPD development (p=0.003 and p<0.001, respectively). Xrs z-score on the 7th day after birth improves the prediction of respiratory outcome in preterm infants.

Grandmaternal pre-pregnancy body mass index and infant birthweight: a mediation analysis of maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index.

The objectives of this study were to examine the total effect of grandmaternal [G0] pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) on infant [G2] birthweight z-score and to quantify the mediation role of maternal [G1] pre-pregnancy BMI. Data were extracted from the Nova Scotia 3G Multigenerational Cohort. The association between G0 pre-pregnancy BMI and G2 birthweight z-score and the mediated effect by G1 pre-pregnancy BMI were estimated using g-computation with adjustment for confounders identified using a directed acyclic graph and accounting for intermediate confounding. 20822 G1-G2 dyads from 18450 G0 were included. Relative to G0 normal weight, G0 underweight decreased mean G2 birthweight z-score (-0.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.20, -0.030), while G0 overweight and obesity increased mean G2 birthweight z-score (0.091 [95% CI 0.034, 0.15] and 0.22 [95% CI 0.11, 0.33]). G1 pre-pregnancy BMI partly mediated the association, with the largest effect size observed for G0 obesity (0.11, 95% CI 0.080, 0.14). Estimates of the direct effect were close to the null. In conclusion, grandmaternal pre-pregnancy BMI was associated with infant birthweight z-score. Maternal pre-pregnancy BMI partly mediated the association, suggesting that factors related to BMI may play an important role in the transmission of weight across the maternal line.

Organophosphate Ester Flame Retardants and Plasticizers in Relation to Fetal Growth in the LIFECODES Fetal Growth Study.

Organophosphate esters (OPEs), used ubiquitously as flame retardants and plasticizers in consumer products, are suspected of having developmental toxicity. Our study aimed to estimate associations between prenatal exposure to OPEs and fetal growth, including both ultrasound (head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and estimated fetal weight) and delivery [birth weight z-score, small-for-gestational age (SGA), and large-for-gestational age (LGA)] measures of growth. In the LIFECODES Fetal Growth Study (2008-2018), an enriched case-cohort of 900 babies born at the small and large ends of the growth spectrum, we quantified OPE biomarkers in three urine samples per pregnant participant and abstracted ultrasound and delivery measures of fetal growth from medical records. We estimated associations between pregnancy-averaged log-transformed OPE biomarkers and repeated ultrasound measures of fetal growth using linear mixed-effects models, and delivery measures of fetal growth using linear (birth weight) and logistic (SGA and LGA) regression models. Most OPE biomarkers were positively associated with at least one ultrasound measure of fetal growth, but associations with delivery measures were largely null. For example, an interquartile range (IQR; ) increase in bis(2-chloroethyl) phosphate concentration was associated with larger z-scores in head circumference [mean difference (difference): 0.09; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01, 0.17], abdominal circumference (difference: 0.10; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.18), femur length (difference: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.19), and estimated fetal weight (difference: 0.13; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.22) but not birth weight (difference: 0.04; 95% CI: , 0.17). At delivery, an IQR () increase in diphenyl phosphate (DPHP) concentration was associated with an SGA birth (odds ratio: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.10, 1.94). In a large prospective cohort, gestational OPE exposures were associated with larger fetal size during pregnancy, but associations at delivery were null. DPHP concentrations were associated with heightened risk of an SGA birth. These findings suggest that OPE exposure may affect fetal development. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP14647.

The impact of obesity surgery on newborn anthropometrics in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome

PurposeObesity surgery and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are both associated with increased risk of intrauterine growth restriction. We investigated whether offspring of mothers with PCOS who underwent obesity surgery had an increased risk of deviating birth anthropometrics compared to offspring of mothers without PCOS.MethodsIn this observational study, data from two study databases (BAROBS and PregMet2) were supplemented with data from patient’s records from secondary and tertiary hospitals. In total, 162 offspring born to mothers with PCOS (n = 48) and without PCOS (n = 114) were included. Forty-nine offspring were born prior to, and 113 after obesity surgery.ResultsMean ± SD birthweight (BW), birth length (BL), and head circumference (HC) before and after surgery for offspring born to mothers with PCOS were 3987 ± 495 g vs 3396 ± 526 g (P = 0.001), 52.2 ± 1.6 cm vs 50.1 ± 2.2 cm (P = 0.010), and 36.3 ± 1.97 cm vs 35.3 ± 1.66 cm (P = 0.183), respectively. In the non-PCOS group BW, BL and HC before and after were 3859 ± 603 g vs 3490 ± 538 g (P = 0.001), 51.3 ± 2.0 cm vs 49.9 ± 2.5 cm (P = 0.013), and 36.4 ± 2.0 cm vs 35.3 ± 1.8 cm (P = 0.016), respectively. Post-surgery, we found no difference in z-score BW, (∆–0.08, P = 0.677), BL (∆0.21, P = 0.184), and HC (∆0.14, P = 0.476) between children of PCOS and non-PCOS mothers.ComclusionBabies born after obesity surgery were smaller and shorter in both the PCOS and non-PCOS group. Post-surgery anthropometrics were similar in babies born to mothers with and without PCOS.

The Impact of Food Insecurity on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between food security status and pregnancy outcomes. Methods: This was a single-center cross-sectional cohort study of postpartum women in Indianapolis, IN. A validated 10 question Household Food Security Survey module was used to assess food security for patients who spoke English, Spanish, or Haitian-Creole. Correlating with the USDA definitions of food security, total scores were “high,” “marginal,” “low,” and “very low.” Scores were analyzed as inadequate (marginal, low, or very low) vs. adequate (high) food security. If a score fell within any category but “adequate” food security, patients were provided with information on community resources. Prenatal and postpartum data were abstracted via chart review, collecting: standard demographics, language, parity, diagnosis of diabetes, diagnosis of hypertensive disorder(s), pre-pregnancy weight, weight at time of delivery, BMI at time of delivery, gestational age at delivery, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score, and delivery mode. Neonatal variables included: weight and sex. The primary outcome was occurrence of gestational diabetes (GDM). These outcomes were compared between patients who had adequate vs. inadequate food security. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between food insecurity and each of the dichotomous outcomes. Linear regression was used to model the relationship between sex-specific birthweight z-scores and food insecurity. All adjusted models included language and maternal age. The Indiana University institutional review board approved the study (IRB# 14116). Results: Two hundred six surveys were completed from June 2022 through December 2022. Ninety-three participants (45.4%, 95% CI 38.4-52.4%) were categorized as inadequate food security. The incidences of marginal, low, and very low food security were similar with 31, 30, and 28 participants, respectively. Race/ethnicity and language were different between adequate and inadequate groups (p=0.006 and &lt;0.001 respectively). The incidence of GDM was 7.9% and was not different for those with inadequate food security (OR 0.96 95% CI 0.33-2.68). Food insecurity was protective against delivery via C-section (aOR 0.50 95% CI 0.25-0.98). Food insecurity increases odds of EPDS &gt; 9 (aOR 4.32 95% CI 1.41-16.2). Conclusions: Inadequate food security status is highly prevalent in our patient population and was associated with racial/ethnic minority status and non-English speaking populations. Inadequate food security was found to be associated with a decreased odds of cesarean delivery and higher odds of postpartum depression.

The ratio of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 to placental growth factor predicts time to delivery and mode of birth in patients with suspected preeclampsia: a secondary analysis of the INSPIRE trial

BackgroundThe ratio of soluble fms–like tyrosine kinase 1 to placental growth factor (sFLT1/PLGF) is a useful biomarker for preeclampsia. Since it is a measure of placental dysfunction, it could also be a predictor of clinical deterioration and fetal tolerance to intrapartum stress. ObjectivesWe tested the hypothesis that sFLT1/PLGF ratio predicts time to delivery. Secondary objectives were to examine associations between the sFLT1/PLGF ratio and mode of birth, fetal distress, need for labor induction and birthweight z-score. Study designSecondary analysis of the INSPIRE trial, a randomized interventional study on prediction of preeclampsia/eclampsia in which women with suspected preeclampsia were recruited and their blood sFLT1/PLGF ratio was assessed. We stratified participants into three groups according to the ratio result: category 1 (sFLT1/PLGF≤38); category 2 (sFLT1/PLGF>38 and <85); and category 3 (sFLT1/PLGF≥85). We modelled time from sFLT1/PLGF determination to delivery using Kaplan-Meier curves and compared the three ratio categories adjusting for gestational age at sFLT1/PLGF determination and trial arm with Cox Regression. The association between ratio category and mode of delivery, induction of labour and fetal distress was assessed using a multivariable logistic regression adjusting for gestational age at sampling and trial arm. The association between birthweight z-score and sFLT1/PLGF ratio was evaluated using multiple linear regression. Subgroup analysis was conducted in women with no preeclampsia and spontaneous onset of labor; women with preeclampsia; and participants in the non-reveal arm. ResultsHigher ratio categories were associated with a shorter latency from sFLT1/PLGF determination to delivery (37 vs 13 vs 10 days for ratios categories 1-3 respectively), hazards ratio for category 3 ratio of 5.64 (95%CI 4.06-7.84, p<0.001). A sFLT/PlGF ratio≥85 had specificity of 92.7%(95%CI 89.0-95.1%) and sensitivity of 54.72% (95% CI, 41.3-69.5) for prediction of preeclampsia indicated delivery within 2 weeks. A ratio category 3 was also associated with decreased odds of spontaneous vaginal delivery (OR 0.47, 95%CI 0.25-0.89); an almost six fold increased risk of emergency cesarean section (OR 5.89, 95%CI 3.05-11.21); and a three-fold increased risk for intrapartum fetal distress requiring operative delivery or cesarean section (OR 3.04, 95%CI 1.53-6.05) when compared to patients with ratios≤38. Higher ratio categories were also associated with higher odds of induction of labor when compared to ratios category 1 (category 2, OR 2.20, 95%CI 1.02-4.76; category 3, OR 6.0, 95%CI 2.01-17.93); and lower median birthweight z-score. Within subgroups of women a)without preeclampsia and with spontaneous onset of labor and b)women with preeclampsia, the log ratio was significantly higher in patients requiring intervention for fetal distress or failure to progress compared to those who delivered vaginaly without intervention. In the subset of women with no preeclampsia and spontaneous onset of labour, those who required intervention for fetal distress or failure to progress had a significantly higher log ratio than those who delivered vaginaly without needing intervention. ConclusionThe sFLT1/PLGF ratio might be helpful in risk-stratification of patients who present with suspected preeclampsia regarding clinical deterioration, intrapartum fetal distress and mode of birth (including the need for intervention in labour).

Maternal thyroid function and offspring birth anthropometrics in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders have both been linked to adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Even small variations in thyroid function within the normal range may influence fetal growth. Our aim was to investigate whether maternal thyroid function is associated with newborn anthropometrics in PCOS and explore the potential modifying effect of metformin. Post-hoc analyses of two RCTs in which pregnant women with PCOS were randomized to metformin or placebo, from first trimester to delivery. Maternal serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (fT4) were measured at gestational weeks (gw) 5-12, 19, 32 and 36 in 309 singleton pregnancies. The mean z-scores of birthweight, birth length, and head circumference were estimated in the offspring. Associations of maternal thyroid parameters with offspring anthropometrics and the outcomes large for gestational age (LGA) and small for gestational age (SGA) were studied using linear and logistic regression models, with adjustment for body mass index (BMI) when relevant. Maternal fT4 at baseline was negatively associated with birth length (b= -0.09, p=0.048). Furthermore, ΔfT4 during pregnancy correlated positively to z-score of both birth weight and length (b=0.10, p=0.017 and b=0.10, p=0.047 respectively), independently of treatment group. TSH at baseline and gw19 was inversely associated with LGA (OR 0.47, p=0.012 and OR 0.58, p=0.042), while ΔTSH was positively associated with LGA (OR 1.99, p=0.023). There were inverse associations between TSH at baseline and SGA (OR 0.32, p=0.005) and between ΔfT4 and SGA (OR 0.59, p=0.005) in the metformin group only. There were no associations between maternal thyroid function and head circumference of the newborns. In women with PCOS, a higher maternal fT4 in early pregnancy and a greater decrease in fT4 during pregnancy was associated with a lower offspring birthweight and shorter birth length. Higher TSH by mid-gestation and smaller increase in TSH during pregnancy was associated with less risk of LGA. Subclinical variations in maternal thyroid function might play a role for birth anthropometrics of PCOS offspring.

Living in a Neighborhood With Limited Access to Broadband Internet Is Associated With Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes [ID 2683563

INTRODUCTION: The internet is an essential tool for ensuring health care access and delivery. We aimed to estimate the association between living in an area with limited broadband internet access and specific adverse pregnancy outcomes. METHODS: We performed an electronic health record-based retrospective cohort study of pregnant people who delivered at a referral medical center between September 1, 2019, and June 1, 2022. Primary outcomes were preterm birth, low birth weight (less than 2,500 g) and birth weight z-score for gestational age. Neighborhood internet access was defined as the proportion of residents with internet access in the pregnant person’s census tract of residence, based on the 2020 American Community Survey estimate and determined by geocoding. We used multivariable logistic or linear regression analysis to estimate the independent effect of internet access and computed adjusted odds ratios (aOR) or mean differences with 95% CIs for a 5-unit increase in the proportion with internet access for a given census tract. RESULTS: Among 5,190 pregnant people included, 885 (17.1%) had a preterm birth, 728 (14.0%) delivered a low-birth weight neonate, and 515 (9.9%) had a small-for-gestational age neonate. After adjusting for relevant confounders, increasing internet access was associated with reduced odds of preterm birth (aOR 0.97; 95% CI, 0.93–1.00; P=.048), reduced odds of low birth weight (aOR 0.95; 95% CI, 0.91–0.98), and increasing birth weight z-score (Beta 0.02; 95% CI, 0.01–0.03). CONCLUSION: Living in neighborhoods with better broadband internet coverage was associated with reduced odds of preterm birth, decreased odds of delivering a low-birth weight neonate, and increasing birth weight.

Maternal Dietary Cholesterol and Egg Intake during Pregnancy and Large-for-Gestational-Age Infants: A Prospective Cohort Study

BackgroundCholesterol plays a vital role in fetal growth and development during pregnancy. There remains controversy over whether pregnant females should limit their cholesterol intake. ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to investigate the association between maternal dietary cholesterol intake during pregnancy and infant birth weight in a Chinese prospective cohort study. MethodsA total of 4146 mother-child pairs were included based on the Jiangsu Birth Cohort study. Maternal dietary information was assessed with a semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Birth weight z-scores and large-for-gestational-age (LGA) infants were converted by the INTERGROWTH-21st neonatal weight-for-gestational-age standard. Poisson regression and generalized estimating equations were employed to examine the relationships between LGA and maternal dietary cholesterol across the entire pregnancy and trimester-specific cholesterol intake, respectively. ResultsThe median intake of maternal total dietary cholesterol during the entire pregnancy was 671.06 mg/d, with eggs being the main source. Maternal total dietary cholesterol and egg-sourced cholesterol were associated with an increase in birth weight z-score, with per standard deviation increase in maternal total and egg-sourced dietary cholesterol being associated with an increase of 0.16 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.07, 0.25] and 0.06 (95% CI: 0.03, 0.09) in birth weight z-score, respectively. Egg-derived cholesterol intake in the first and third trimesters was positively linked to LGA, with an adjusted relative risk of 1.11 (95% CI: 1.04, 1.18) and 1.09 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.18). Compared with mothers consuming ≤7 eggs/wk in the third trimester, the adjusted relative risk for having an LGA newborn was 1.37 (95% CI: 1.09, 1.72) for consuming 8–10 eggs/wk and 1.45 (95% CI: 1.12, 1.86) for consuming >10 eggs/wk (P-trend = 0.015). ConclusionsMaternal total dietary cholesterol intake, as well as consuming over 7 eggs/wk during pregnancy, displayed significant positive relationships with the incidence of LGA, suggesting that mothers should avoid excessive cholesterol intake during pregnancy to prevent adverse birth outcomes.

Progressive Impairment of Prepubertal Growth in Children With APECED.

Subjects with autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) have subnormal adult height. There are several potential APECED-related risk factors for suboptimal height attainment during childhood. To determine the growth patterns in children with APECED. Retrospective longitudinal study. The Finnish national APECED cohort. 59 children with APECED. Length/height and weight z-scores from birth to the end of prepuberty. Collectively, 59 children [30 (51%) girls] were included. Their median birth weight z-score (-0.60) was below the population average; 12 (20%) patients were born small for gestational age. Height attainment progressively declined from birth until the end of prepuberty (z-score -1.95), whereas weight-for-height z-score did not (+0.26). Of the 59 patients, 38 (64%) had all height z-scores below 0 during prepuberty, and seven (12%) had z-scores below -2.0. Age at the end of prepuberty, number of APECED manifestations, duration of glucocorticoid treatment, and growth hormone deficiency correlated negatively with height z-score at the end of prepuberty (p < 0.0001; p = 0.041; p = 0.013; p = 0.034, respectively). Children with APECED had a progressive growth impairment from birth through prepuberty. Multiple predisposing risk factors were recognized, including disease severity and growth hormone deficiency. Timely interventions are needed to ensure optimal height attainment and new treatment options need to be developed.