Breastfeeding Exposure Research Articles

Association of Infant Breastfeeding and Juvenile Spondyloarthritis: A Case-Control Study.

Given the multifactorial pathogenesis of juvenile spondyloarthritis (JSpA) and evidence of a protective effect in phenotypically similar diseases, we aimed to test whether breastfeeding is associated with the development and disease activity of JSpA. This single-center retrospective case-control study included children with JSpA and age- and sex-matched controls with a 1:1 ratio. Univariable and multivariable conditional logistic regression modeling for matched pairs was used to test the association of infant factors with the development of JSpA, including infant nutrition and form of delivery. Linear regression was used to assess the association of JSpA disease activity (JSpA Disease Activity Index with 6 elements [JSpADA6]) at presentation with breastfeeding exposure, form of delivery, and antibiotic exposure. For the 195 case-control matched pairs, the mean age was 13.0 years and 47.7% were female. For breastfeeding, 88.7% of controls and 69.2% of JSpA cases were exposed to breastfeeding of any duration, respectively (P < 0.001). In the multivariable model, exclusive breastfeeding > 6 months was independently and significantly associated with a lower chance of JSpA development (odds ratio 0.47, 95% CI 0.30-0.72; P < 0.001). The median JSpADA6 was not significantly associated with breastfeeding for > 6 months. However, vaginal delivery was significantly associated with a lower JSpADA6 (B = -0.65, 95% CI -1.13 to -0.17; P = 0.008). This study suggests that infant factors that affect the microbiome may be associated with the occurrence and disease activity of JSpA at presentation.

Use of CFTR modulators in special populations, part 1: Pregnancy and lactation.

Safety and efficacy data regarding cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator use in the setting of pregnancy or breastfeeding remains lacking due to exclusion from key trials and lack of multicenter prospective and retrospective studies in the post-CFTR modulator era. A scoping review of English articles from the period of January 1, 2012, to July 31, 2023, was conducted utilizing PubMed and EmBase databases with the following terms: "special population (pregnancy, lactation, breastfeeding)" AND "ivacaftor OR lumacaftor OR tezacaftor OR elexacaftor"; "cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator" AND "off label drug use." Search results were reviewed by title and abstract for duplications and relevance. Relative to pregnancy or breastfeeding, a total of 18 publications were included for review. Majority of case reports and surveys concluded maternal and infant health were preserved throughout gestation. Likewise, breastfeeding infant case reports show possible changes in liver function and lens opacities, though risk may be increased with both in-utero and breastfeeding exposure. Ivacaftor (IVA) and lumacaftor (LUM) concentrations in fetal cord blood and maternal blood were found to be equivalent. Yet, low concentrations of IVA and LUM were detectable in breastmilk and infant plasma. Current safety data surrounding CFTR modulator use in the setting of pregnancy and lactation is relatively reassuring; however, long-term safety remains unclear, necessitating ongoing observation, and reporting by care teams. As such, treatment decisions should be individualized and coproduced.

Fluorinated liquid-crystal monomers in paired breast milk and indoor dust: A pilot prospective study

Fluorinated liquid-crystal monomers (FLCMs), one class of emerging persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) compounds, are widely used in liquid-crystal displays (LCDs). As a result, they have been found in the environment and serum from occupational workers. However, little is known about their occurrence in non-occupational exposing populations. Herein, we provided an evaluation of the health risks of FLCMs for infants based on breastfeeding exposure and dust ingestion. The detection frequencies (DF) of FLCMs in indoor dust and breast milk was 100 %, with median concentrations of 12.00 ng/g dry weight (dw) and 133.40 ng/g lipid weight (lw), respectively. 1-butoxy-2,3-difluoro-4-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)benzene (BDPrB) was the predominant pollutant in indoor dust and human breast milk. Significant positive correlations were observed between the dust concentrations of seven FLCMs including BDPrB, and their breast milk concentrations (r = 0.275–0.660, P < 0.05). Further, associations were also found in some demographic and behavioral factors and concentrations of some FLCMs (P < 0.05). The highest EDI of ∑FLCMs was observed for infants who were < 1 month of age, with a median breast milk intake of 700.35 ng/kg bw/day, in which 1-ethoxy-2,3-difluoro-4-(trans-4-propylcyclohexyl)benzene (EDPrB), BDPrB, and 4′-[(trans, trans)-4′-butyl[1,1′-bicyclohexyl]-4-yl]-3,4-difluoro-1,1′-biphenyl (BBDB) collectively contributed 94.4 % of the total EDIs. Notably, the lactational intake of FLCMs was higher than that of some environmental pollutants (EPs). Overall, our results suggest higher exposure risks for infants and breastfeeding is the predominant exposure route for daily intake of FLCMs for infants.

Fat content in infant mesenchymal stem cells prospectively associates with childhood adiposity and fasting glucose.

In human studies, new model systems are needed for improved mechanistic investigation of developmental predisposition for metabolic disease but also to serve as benchmarks in early life prevention or intervention efforts. In this regard, human infant umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an emerging tool. However, long-term clinical relevance to in vivo markers of metabolic disease is unknown. In a cohort of 124 mother/child dyads, this study tested the hypothesis that triglyceride content (TG) of infant MSCs undergoing adipogenesis in vitro (MSC-TG) is associated with in vivo adiposity (percent fat mass) from birth to early childhood and with fasting glucose and insulin in early childhood. MSC-TG was positively associated with in vivo child adiposity at birth, age 4 to 6 months, and age 4 to 6 years. MSC-TG was associated with fasting glucose, but not insulin, at 4 to 6 years. Importantly, MSC-TG explained an additional 13% variance in child adiposity at 4 to 6 years, after accounting for other established birth predictors (weight and percent fat mass at birth) and other established covariates related to child adiposity (e.g., breastfeeding exposure, physical activity). This work demonstrates the strength of the MSC model for predicting offspring metabolic phenotype into childhood, even when considering the important contribution of other early life risk factors.

Factors associated with the early emergence of atypical feeding behaviours in infants and young children: A scoping review.

Atypical feeding behaviours such as significantly limited food preferences, hypersensitivity to food textures or temperatures and pocketing food without swallowing are common concerns in child health. Current reports indicate an inter-relationship between early growth, feeding problems and developmental disorders, yet little is known about how these behaviours develop in early childhood. There is also a lack of consensus about clinical definitions for atypical feeding behaviours, diagnostic thresholds and the associated precursors. To date, there has been no synthesis of the extant literature about factors associated with the early onset of atypical feeding behaviours in young children. This scoping review aimed to characterize the factors associated with the early emergence of atypical feeding behaviours in typically developing young children. CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Scopus databases were searched. Studies published in the last 5 years were included if they examined factors associated with the development of atypical eating behaviours in infants and young children. Of the 2137 records obtained after the search strategy was applied, 202 full-text articles were retrieved for a more detailed examination and to ensure they met the inclusion criteria. This resulted in 54 studies being included in this scoping review. Of the 54 studies, three studies analysed precursors responsible for atypical feeding behaviours, and 51 studies discussed the factors associated with the early emergence of feeding difficulties. Multiple factors, including genetic factors, breastfeeding, late introduction of solids and lumpy foods, complementary feeding techniques, parental mental health, prematurity and child factors including temperament, were identified. There is inconsistent evidence for the associations between breastfeeding exposure and feeding difficulties. This study identified multiple factors potentially associated with the early onset of atypical feeding behaviours in young children; however, there is insufficient evidence at this time to support specific recommendations for early feeding practices in young children. More methodologically rigorous studies are needed to extend these findings.

A Brief Media Intervention Influences Collegiate Males’ Attitude and Knowledge Towards Breastfeeding

ABSTRACT Breastfeeding is the optimal source of infant nutrition, yet the motherʻs decision to breastfeed is complex and influenced by factors including social support and breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes. This study employed a two-group pretest-posttest design to examine whether brief, online video presentations (<2.5 minutes in length) could improve breastfeeding knowledge and attitude among males and compare the outcomes between a knowledge-based and attitude-based intervention. Collegiate male participants (N = 213, 18–40 years of age) demonstrated high breastfeeding exposure (90.1% had friends/family breastfeed) and positive attitudes (89.2% accepted women could breastfeed and work outside home) yet knowledge deficits concerning breastfeeding health benefits were identified. Breastfeeding exposure was positively associated with baseline attitude (r(212)=.186, p = .006 and knowledge (r(212)=.229, p = .001. Both intervention groups reported similar gains in attitude scores; only the knowledge-based intervention reported significant gains in knowledge (M = 1.5, SD = 2.63 vs M = −.07, SD = 1.44, (t = −5.496, df = 211, p < .05). Brief online video presentations may constitute an additional exposure to or nudging toward breastfeeding, and breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes can be positively influenced in young adult males with similar interventions that are affordable and require a minimal time commitment.

Exploration of parent-reported food allergy symptoms via breastmilk exposures and likelihood to develop tolerance

BackgroundKnowledge is limited about the relationship between clinical reactivity to foods through breastfeeding and long-term food allergy outcomes. We explored parent-perceived symptoms of food allergy via breastfeeding and the association with future tolerance.MethodsSubjects identified from the Chicago Food Allergy Study (2005–2011) were categorized by parent-reported reactions to maternally ingested foods via breastfeeding (50/898 peanut-allergic, 69/620 egg-allergic, and 153/589 milk-allergic). The primary outcome was tolerance [passed oral food challenge (OFC) or consumption of previously implicated food]. Secondary outcomes included severe reactions (anaphylaxis and/or cardiovascular/respiratory symptoms) and additional concomitant food allergies. Univariate chi-square analyses were performed to assess for association between variables, followed by logistic regression models.ResultsOf the 50 subjects with parent-reported peanut-associated symptoms with breastfeeding, none gained tolerance. There were no significant associations between parent-reported breastfeeding symptoms and development of tolerance for egg and milk (egg: OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.21–1.01, p = 0.053; milk: OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.70–1.81, p = 0.614). All egg-allergic subjects with parent-perceived symptoms while breastfeeding also reported multiple food allergies (n = 69), but milk- and peanut-allergic subjects were not more likely to have multiple allergies (milk: OR 1.89, 95% CI 0.88–4.02, p = 0.10; peanut: OR 2.36, 95% CI 0.72–7.76, p = 0.16). There were no significant associations between parent-reported breastfeeding symptoms and subsequent reaction severity.ConclusionsA significant proportion of parents perceive symptoms of food allergy attributable to indirect breastfeeding exposures. Our exploratory analysis suggests that infants with parent-perceived clinical reactivity to peanut via breastmilk may be less likely to gain tolerance. Infants with parent-reported reactivity to egg via breastmilk exposure were more likely to report multiple food allergies. Further rigorous prospective studies are needed to clarify the true prevalence of IgE-mediated food allergy symptoms attributable to indirect breastfeeding exposures and the association with development of tolerance.

Maternal Exposure and Neonatal Effects of Drugs of Abuse.

The public health crisis of pregnant women being exposed to drugs of abuse and of its impact on their unborn children continues to grow at an alarming rate globally. The state of pregnancy is unique, with physiological changes that can lead to changes in the way drugs are handled by the body in both pharmacokinetics and response. These changes place the pregnant woman, fetus, and newborn infant at risk, as many of these drugs can cross the placenta and into breast milk. The substances most commonly linked to harmful effects include alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, stimulants, and opioids. The pharmacological and toxicological changes caused by in utero exposure or breastfeeding exposure are difficult to study, and the full extent of the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. However, these changes can significantly affect the risks of substance abuse and influence optimal treatment of pregnant women with a substance use disorder. In addition, newborns who were exposed to drugs of abuse in utero can experience withdrawal syndromes. Pharmacological management in infants is used to guide and treat withdrawal symptoms, with the goal being to improve the infant's sleep, eating, and comfort. Several barriers may prevent pregnant women from seeking help for substance use, including stigma and interactions with the legal system. Understanding changes in pharmacology, including pharmacokinetic changes that happen during pregnancy, is essential for anticipating the extent of maternal exposure and neonatal adverse effects.

Breastfeeding and the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer among women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation

ObjectiveBRCA mutation carriers face a high lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer. The strong inverse association between breastfeeding and the risk of ovarian cancer is established in the general population but is less well studied among women with a germline BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. MethodThus, we conducted a matched case-control analysis to evaluate the association between breastfeeding history and the risk of developing ovarian cancer. After matching for year of birth, country of residence, BRCA gene and personal history of breast cancer, a total of 1650 cases and 2702 controls were included in the analysis. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) associated with various breastfeeding exposures. ResultsA history of ever-breastfeeding was associated with a 23% reduction in risk (OR = 0.77; 95%CI 0.66–0.90; P = 0.001). The protective effect increased with breastfeeding from one month to seven months after which the association was relatively stable. Compared to women who never breastfed, breastfeeding for seven or more months was associated with a 32% reduction in risk (OR = 0.68; 95%CI 0.57–0.81; P < 0.0001) and did not vary by BRCA gene or age at diagnosis. The combination of breastfeeding and oral contraceptive use was strongly protective (0.47; 95%CI 0.37–0.58; P < 0.0001). ConclusionsThese findings support a protective effect of breastfeeding for at least seven months among women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, that is independent of oral contraceptive use.

P116 A systematic review of the safety of non-tumour necrosis factor inhibitor and targeted synthetic drugs in rheumatic disease in pregnancy

Abstract Background Despite increasing evidence to support safe use of tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) drugs in pregnancy, there remains a paucity of evidence regarding non-TNFi and targeted synthetic disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (tsDMARDs) in pregnancy. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to summarise use of these drugs in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Methods Systematic search of databases including; EMBASE, Pubmed (MEDLINE), and Cochrane up to December 2018 using keywords including; commonly prescribed non-TNFi and tsDMARDs, pregnancy, conception/pre-conception, lactation/breastfeeding, childhood and vaccination/infection. Results From an initial screen of 700 papers, n = 92 full text papers were included in the final analysis. A summary of findings from known outcomes of pregnancy and breastfeeding exposures as well as long-term follow-up of infants where available are shown in Table 1. Overall, this data does not identify an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes with these drugs in this population of patients. Conclusion These findings do not suggest an increased risk of non-TNFi and tsDMARDs in pregnancy. Given that the total number of exposures, however, remain limited these drugs should only be considered in pregnancy if the benefit of maintaining disease control in the mother justifies any potential risk to the fetus. This body of evidence will be useful when counselling women about the potential risks of using these types of drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding period as well as following accidental exposure to drugs at conception. Disclosures H. Nguyen None. K. Ahmed None. J. Flint None. I. Giles None.

Is breastfeeding associated with later child eating behaviours?

Individual differences in children's eating behaviours emerge early. We examined the relationship between breastfeeding exposure and subsequent eating behaviours among children from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort. Children (n = 970) were grouped according to their breastfeeding exposure: high (full breastfeeding ≥ 4 months with continued breastfeeding ≥ 6 months), low (any breastfeeding < 3 months or no breastfeeding) and intermediate (between low and high breastfeeding categories). Aspects of eating behaviour from ages 15 months to 6 years were captured using a combination of maternal reports (Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire; Infant Feeding Questionnaire; Preschooler Feeding Questionnaire) and laboratory-based measures of meal size, oral processing behaviours (e.g. average eating speed and bite size) and tendency to eat in the absence of hunger. Most children had low (44%) or intermediate (44%) breastfeeding exposure; only 12% had high exposure. After adjusting for confounders, multivariable linear regression analyses indicated the high (but not intermediate) breastfeeding group was associated with significantly lower reported food fussiness at 3 years compared to low breastfeeding group (−0.38 [-0.70, −0.06]), with similar but non-significant trends observed at 6 years (−0.27 [-0.66, 0.11]). At 3 years, mothers in the high breastfeeding group also reported the least difficulty in child feeding compared to low breastfeeding group (−0.22 [-0.43, −0.01]). However, high breastfeeding was not associated with any other maternal-reports of child feeding or eating behaviours, and no significant associations were observed between breastfeeding exposure and any of the laboratory measures of eating behaviour at any of the time points. These results do not strongly support the view that increased breastfeeding exposure alone has lasting and consistent associations with eating behaviours in early childhood.

The Effects of Prenatal Exposure to Marijuana on Early Childhood Development: A Systematic Literature Review

To assess the effect of prenatal marijuana exposure (PME) on the newborn, infant and early childhood development through review of current literature. A systematic literature review was conducted in the electronic database from 1996 to 2017 for the effects of PME and their fetal and early childhood outcomes. 7% of pregnant women self-reported using marijuana in the last year, while 16% of them reported near-daily use. Marijuana use has been reported to: a) interfere with normal placentation leading to miscarriage, preeclampsia and preterm labor through imbalance in Cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CBR1) stimulation; b) could lead to reduction of fetal growth and head circumference due to increased plasticity and resistance of uterine artery; c) be associated with impaired memory function, decreased verbal scores, increased aggression and hyperactivity, impaired abstract and visual reasoning; and d) could alter sleep patterns. Finally, there is no consensus regarding the effects of marijuana through breastfeeding exposure and no postpartum withdrawal effects in the newborn were reported. Research on the effects of PME on offspring has been limited by several confounding factors including self-reporting bias, concomitant use of other illicit drugs and psychosocial factors. Overall, PME may lead to negative consequences on the developing offspring. Public health messages to health care providers and pregnant women regarding the harmfulness of PME should become a high priority. Further research is needed to reinforce the existing data and examine additional potential negative effects on the developing child.

Exploring Breastfeeding Knowledge and Attitudes among Noncaregivers: A Narrative Review.

Exclusive breastfeeding to 6 months with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years and beyond are well-established infant feeding recommendations based on evidence that breastfeeding has unparalleled maternal and infant health benefits as well as environmental and economic benefits. As with many high-income countries, breastfeeding rates remain suboptimal with only a quarter of Canadian and European infants receiving breast milk exclusively for the first 6 months. Breastfeeding promotion efforts have largely targeted caregivers in the prenatal and postnatal period; however, breastfeeding outcomes have been shown to be associated with broader sociocultural factors. Noncaregivers play an influential role in infant feeding at both an individual level (e.g., cues and input from health care practitioners and caregivers' social networks; as future parents) as well as a broader population level (sociocultural norms and policy decisions). This paper outlines recent research on breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes of noncaregivers by population subgroup. Positive correlations have been identified between breastfeeding attitudes, infant feeding knowledge, breastfeeding exposure, and breastfeeding intention among different subgroups; however, key knowledge gaps, lack of exposure to breastfeeding, and negative public perceptions of breastfeeding persist. Dietitians can advocate for breastfeeding promotion strategies that consider the role of noncaregivers to address sociocultural norms around breastfeeding.

Impact of in Utero and Breastfeeding Exposure to Tenofovir on Renal Function in HIV-exposed Uninfected Children

Impact of in Utero and Breastfeeding Exposure to Tenofovir on Renal Function in HIV-exposed Uninfected Children

Relationship among Breastfeeding Exposure, Knowledge, and Attitudes in Collegiate Males Residing in East Texas.

Researchers exploring breastfeeding attitudes and knowledge among women suggest the decision to breastfeed is influenced by the male partner, yet few studies address males. Because collegiate males will soon enter fatherhood, assessment of their attitudes and knowledge may inform interventions aimed at increasing intention to breastfeed. This study aimed to describe collegiate males' exposure to, attitude toward, and knowledge about breastfeeding. A cross-sectional online survey was used with males ≥ 18 years of age enrolled at a Texas public university. Attitude indices measured included social limitations, public displays of breastfeeding, and employer accommodations. Descriptive statistics, correlational and regression analyses were employed. The participants' (N = 949) average age was 25.48 years; > 80% reported not being fathers. Exposure to breastfeeding was high; > 80% witnessed breastfeeding and/or had someone close breastfeed. High attitude scores indicated social acceptability of breastfeeding. Knowledge appeared limited: only 16% identified the recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life; > 50% overlooked the reduced risk for overweight/obesity, ear infections, diarrhea, or food allergies. Correlations between knowledge, exposure, total attitude, and index scores were positive (p < .01) except for the public displays index. Stepwise multiple regression determined that breastfeeding exposure, knowledge scores, and father's educational level predicted total attitude score, (R2 = 0.13, F (3,851) = 44.02, p < .01). The positive attitudes outcome among this male population is promising for breastfeeding support and advocacy. Education efforts improving knowledge will likely increase behavioral intention, resulting in increased breastfeeding rates and duration.

Family members’ infant feeding preferences, maternal breastfeeding exposures and exclusive breastfeeding intentions

BackgroundMaternal breastfeeding intentions are strongly associated with breastfeeding exclusivity and duration. Factors that affect new mothers’ exclusive breastfeeding intentions have not been adequately examined. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to examine the association between family member's infant feeding preferences, breastfeeding exposures, and womens’ exclusive breastfeeding intentions. Methods1277 breastfeeding mother-infant pairs were recruited from four public hospitals in Hong Kong. We used multiple logistic and linear regression models to explore the impact of the family members’ infant feeding preferences and breastfeeding exposures on exclusive breastfeeding intentions. Results78.1% mothers reported an intention to exclusively breastfeed, and the median intended duration of exclusive breastfeeding was 26 weeks. The husband's preference for breastfeeding (aOR = 1.67; 95% CI 1.20–2.31), previous breastfeeding experience (aOR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.10–2.23) and attendance at an antenatal breastfeeding class (aOR = 2.09; 95% CI 1.45–3.02) were all strongly associated with higher maternal intention to exclusively breastfeed. For every additional family member who preferred breastfeeding, the odds of intending to exclusively breastfeed increased by 32% (aOR1.32; 95% CI, 1.13–1.55). Similarly, the proportion of participants intending to exclusively breastfeed increased progressively with more breastfeeding exposures. ConclusionsIncluding fathers and other significant family members in antenatal breastfeeding education can help to maximize breastfeeding support for the new mother and encourage new mothers to exclusively breastfeed.

Family Members' Infant Feeding Preferences, Maternal Breastfeeding Exposures and Exclusive Breastfeeding Intentions

Abstract Background Maternal breastfeeding intentions are strongly associated with breastfeeding exclusivity and duration. Factors that affect new mothers' exclusive breastfeeding intentions have not been adequately examined. Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the association between family member's infant feeding preferences, breastfeeding exposures, and womens' exclusive breastfeeding intentions. Methods 1277 breastfeeding mother-infant pairs were recruited from four public hospitals in Hong Kong. We used multiple logistic and linear regression models to explore the impact of the family members' infant feeding preferences and breastfeeding exposures on exclusive breastfeeding intentions. Results 78.1% mothers reported an intention to exclusively breastfeed, and the median intended duration of exclusive breastfeeding was 26 weeks. The husband's preference for breastfeeding (aOR = 1.67; 95% CI 1.20–2.31), previous breastfeeding experience (aOR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.10–2.23) and attendance at an antenatal breastfeeding class (aOR = 2.09; 95% CI 1.45–3.02) were all strongly associated with higher maternal intention to exclusively breastfeed. For every additional family member who preferred breastfeeding, the odds of intending to exclusively breastfeed increased by 32% (aOR1.32; 95% CI, 1.13–1.55). Similarly, the proportion of participants intending to exclusively breastfeed increased progressively with more breastfeeding exposures. Conclusions Including fathers and other significant family members in antenatal breastfeeding education can help to maximize breastfeeding support for the new mother and encourage new mothers to exclusively breastfeed.

The Association Between Breastfeeding Exposure and Duration, Neuropsychological Deficits, and Psychopathic Personality Traits in Offspring: The Moderating Role of 5HTTLPR

A wealth of research has revealed that a shorter duration of breastfeeding during infancy can increase the risk of various maladaptive traits, including neuropsychological deficits. Despite the number of studies that have been conducted on the topic, few studies have explored whether the effects of breastfeeding on neuropsychological functioning and personality features persist into adulthood. Furthermore, very little research to date has examined whether this relationship is moderated by specific indicators of genetic risk. The current study examines the direct and interactive effects of breastfeeding experiences and the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5HTTLPR) on neuropsychological deficits and psychopathic personality traits. Using data from the National Longitudinal study of Adolescent Health, we find that no exposure to breastfeeding and a shorter duration of breastfeeding significantly increase the risk of exhibiting neuropsychological deficits during adolescence and early adulthood as well as psychopathic personality traits during adulthood. The results also reveal a number of gene × environment interactions between 5HTTLPR, breastfeeding exposure and breastfeeding duration in the prediction of neuropsychological deficits, but not in the prediction of psychopathic personality traits.

Short- and long-term neurobehavioral toxicity of fluorene after a nose-only exposure during the lactating period (14 days) in F1 Wistar rats

Fluorene is a highly volatile polycyclic aromatic compound (PAH) being one of the most abundant in air. Because significant fluorene concentrations have been measured in the breast milk of non-smoking women, the risk for the developing brain of a breast-feeding exposure to this compound was evaluated. Wistar female rats were nose-only exposed to 1.5 or 150 ppb of fluorene from postnatal day 3 (PND3) to PND16 (6h/day, 14 days) whereas the controls were inhaled with clean air over the same period. Rat pups were assessed for their sensory-motor development during the first three weeks of life and for anxiety (elevated-plus maze, EPM), activity (open-field) and spatial learning (Y maze, eight-arm maze) at adulthood. Transient delays in the maturation of motor and sensory abilities of fluorene-exposed pups were observed during the first 3 weeks of life compared to controls at both levels of exposure (1.5 and 150 ppb) whereas the dam behavior towards the pups was exacerbated. At the adult stage, persistent behavioral disturbances related to locomotor activity and anxiety were observed in fluorene-exposed rats whereas their learning abilities remained unaffected. Rats inhaled with 150 ppb of fluorene exhibited a lower anxiety level and a concomitant hyperactivity whereas the opposite was observed in animals exposed to 1.5 ppb. These results show the same behavioral defects as those reported in adult rats inhaled with fluorene (Peiffer et al., PlosOne, 2013) and confirm the potential neurotoxicity of this highly volatile PAH when exposure occurs during the early period of brain development. (max. 250 words)

Effect of iron supplementation with or without vitamin E (VE) on gut microbiome (MB) in iron deficient (ID) infants and toddlers

ObjectiveTo assess the impact of VE on the efficacy of therapeutic iron and on gut MB in infants and toddlers with ID.DesignThis is a randomized, double blind efficacy trial of 8 weeks of iron therapy (6 mg/kg/d) alone or with VE, in 9‐24 mo old infants and toddlers with ID. Profiles of fecal gut MB were measured by 16S sequencing before and after treatment.Results32 infants (14 ± 4 mo) completed the study with pre‐ and post‐trial stool samples collected (IG: Iron Group n=18; IVEG: iron +VE Group n=14). Over time, allparticipants improved iron status. Compared with IG without group difference. Compared with IG, the IVEG had increase in serum vitamin E concentration (Δ1.3 ± 6.1 mcg/ml, P &lt; 0.05). Microbial diversity increased overtime (P &lt; 0.01) among all participants. Firmicutes increased (P &lt; 0.05) and Bacteroidetes decreased (P &lt; 0.05) in relative abundance (RA) in the IVEG, compared with IG. A group‐by‐time interaction was observed in which Bacteroidaceae (P = 0.07) and Bacteroides (P = 0.07) decreased, while the potential butyrate producers Lachnospiraceae (P = 0.01 and Roseburia (P = 0.04) increased in RA in the IVEG. Among all participants, correction of ID was associated with decreased Escherichia from 1.4% to 0.4% (P =0.01). Age and breastfeeding exposure had no impact on the results.ConclusionImproving iron status in U.S. infants and toddlers with ID reduced the abundance of putative pathogens. Adding VE to iron supplement beneficially affected the gut microbiome.Sponsored by: The Gerber foundation, NIH/NIDDK (K24 DK083772), Colorado CTSI, UCD Microbiome Research Consortium