Late Pregnancy Period Research Articles

1744 Effects of different sources and routes of administration of copper and vitamins A and D on piglets gut microbiota

Placental and colostral transfers of copper and vitamins A and D micronutrients from dams to neonates are limited in pig species (Matte et al., 2014, JAS 92-Suppl. 2:153). The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of different perinatal micronutrient supplementation strategies on piglets’ gut microbiota. Within each litter from 5 sows, 10 newborn piglets were allocated to one of the following combinations of sources and routes of micronutrient administrations: oral vitamin D3, retinol-acetate and CuSO4 (T1); oral 25-OH-vitamin D3, β-carotene and Cu-yeast (T2); exposure to UVB light (20 min every second day), oral retinol-palmitate and Cu-gluconate (T3); intramuscular vitamin D3 and retinol-propionate and oral Cu-acetate (T4); oral saline (CTL). Oral or intramuscular provisions corresponded to 12 mg of copper and 70 and 12 MIU of vitamins A and D, respectively. This design was repeated with 5 other sows fed daily extra supplements of 25-OH-vitamin D3 (4 MIU), β-carotene (24 MIU) and Cu-yeast (45 mg) from 90 d of gestation to 21 d of lactation. At 21 d of age, feces were collected and piglets were weaned. At 23 d of age, 5 repetitions of a combination of sow and piglet factorial treatments were sacrificed and feces and content from mid-jejunum, ileum, mid-colon, and rectum were collected to characterize gut microbiota. Bacterial communities were analyzed by sequencing the V3-V4 regions of 16S rRNA genes on an Illumina MiSeq. Bioinformatic analyses were performed on our internal data analysis pipeline and statistics were performed in R. The analysis of bacterial community composition at the class level revealed that sow supplementation significantly increased the relative abundance of Bacilli in feces at d 21 (P = 0.04) but not at d 23. Gut microbiota diversity significantly differed (P = 0.03) according to supplemental treatments provided to piglets. However there was no piglet treatment effect on gut microbiota based on PCoA analyses. The Shannon diversity of jejunal and ileal microbiota was significantly (P ≺ 0.05) decreased when supplementation was given to sows. Sow supplementation also significantly increased Bacilli in both jejunum and ileum (P≺ 0.001, both). The study demonstrated that piglet gut microbiota can be modulated by daily extra supplementation of vitamins A and D and organic copper to sows during late pregnancy and lactation periods. Further studies are thus warranted to study mechanisms of action explaining the impact of such maternal micronutrient supplementation on bacterial colonization in piglets gut.

EFFECT OF USING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF DRY OR GERMINATED FENUGREEK SEEDS ON PRODUCTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF DAIRY ZARAIBI GOATS

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of supplemented diets of lactating goats by three levels (0, 10 and 30 gm/goat/day) from either dry (ungerminated; DFS) or germinated fenugreek seeds (GFS) on their productive and reproductive performance. A feeding trial was conducted using forty-five Zaraibi goats (31.2 ± 0.32 kg LBW and aged 3-4 years) at late pregnancy (two months before parturition) and postpartum periods which lasted 210 days (after parturition). The trial was continued during winter and summer seasons. Animals were divided into five similar groups (9 animals each) using the randomized complete block design. They were fed as groups on a basal ration where concentrate feed mixture (CFM) was 50% of requirements according to NRC (1981); while, roughage was offered at ad-libitum (berseem in winter and corn silage (CS) in summer). Control group (G1) fed ration without supplement while, G2 and G4 fed supplemented rations with 10 and 30g dry fenugreek seed/head/day; respectively. In addition, G3 and G5 fed supplemented rations with 10 and 30g germinated fenugreek seed/head/day; respectively. At the same time, five digestibility trials were conducted twice during experimental period in winter and another in summer season to determine the digestibility and feeding value of the experimental rations. Results indicated that germinated seeds process increased most of amino acids content in fenugreek seeds especially aspartic acid, phenylalanine and leucine. During winter and summer, feed intake and digestibility for all nutrients were significantly (P<0.05) increased by using germinated seeds with 30 g (G5) than those of the other groups. The same trend was observed with feeding values (TDN, DCP and DE). Daily milk yield was significantly increased with using level 30 g seeds as feed additive over the whole experimental period. Also, an improvement in 4% fat corrected milk yield was observed being 129, 120, 111 and 108% for G5, G4, G3 and G2 based on G1 as control (zero additives) over the 210-d experimental period. Milk fat and total solid contents were significantly higher for G5 than those of the others. While, no significant differences were observed for values of lactose and solid non-fat. There was an improvement in feed efficiency as kg produced milk per kg DMI, TDNI or DCPI for G5 (30 g germinated additive) in comparison of control and the other tested rations. So, it was reflected on economical efficiency which recorded 112% increase for G5 comparing with control 100% during experimental period. No deleterious effects on liver, kidney functions and general health of the animals those were fed the manipulated rations. Germination process with level 30 g additive fenugreek seeds had significant (P<0.05) positive effect on final weight, total gain and average daily gain for kids during suckling period. Also, it noticed that mortality rate gradually decreased with increasing additive levels or GFS versus DFS. There were essential improvement in reproductive performance of does in next mating season as estrus rate (%), fertility rate and prolificacy traits. It was concluded that using germinated fenugreek seed as feed additive with 30 gm/head/day was more effective in lactating goats where it can pronounced enhance feed intake, digestibility, feeding values, milk production, feed efficiency, some blood parameters, economic efficiency, kids performance, decrease kids mortality rate and improve reproductive performance for goats in next mating season.

Growth and fertilization of porcine fetal oocytes grafted under the renal capsules of nude mice

The fetal ovary contains a larger pool of oocytes than the adult ovary, but utilization of the fetal oocytes of large animals has hardly been examined. In this study, we investigated the developmental competence of oocytes grown in host mice harboring ovarian grafts obtained from fetal pigs. Ovarian fragments from fetuses at 55, 70, and 90 days postartificial insemination (dpi) were grafted into ovariectomized nude mice (Crlj:CD1-Foxn1nu; 55-, 70- and 90-dpi groups, respectively). For comparison, ovarian fragments from 20-day postpartum (dpp) piglets were also grafted (20-dpp group). About 60 days after detection of vaginal opening, the mice were given 62.5 U/mL porcine FSH for 13 days by infusion to enhance their follicular development. In the fetal ovaries before grafting, the percentage of germ cells in primordial follicles (termed primordial oocytes) relative to the total number of germ cells was 0.06% at 55 dpi, 2.4% at 70 dpi, and 7.2% at 90 dpi, but the majority was contained within egg nests. At 20 dpp, primordial oocytes accounted for 91.7% of the total number of germ cells and the rest were mostly in primary follicles. After FSH stimulation of host mice, formation of antral follicles was promoted in the grafts of the 70- and 90-dpi groups as well as the 20-dpp group, but a very small number of antral follicles developed in the 55-dpi group consistent with the lowest (P < 0.05) levels of circulating inhibin in that group. The mean number of full-sized oocytes with meiotic competence recovered per mouse was 6.0 in the 70-dpi, 18.0 in the 90-dpi, and 21.2 in the 20-dpp groups, whereas virtually no oocytes were recovered from mice in the 55-dpi group. Moreover, the mature oocytes in the 70- and 90-dpi groups were fertilized in vitro, as shown by formation of male and female pronuclei, but the percentage of oocytes penetrated by sperm was low in the 70- (49%) and 90-dpi (29%) groups as compared with the 20-dpp group (88%). These results clearly indicate that porcine fetal ovaries during the late pregnancy period are able to grow and produce oocytes with fertilization ability after being grafted into nude mice. The presence of primordial follicles is likely to be associated with the ability of fetal ovaries to produce antral follicles after xenografting.

Reference Intervals of Routine Coagulation Assays During the Pregnancy and Puerperium Period.

Significant changes occur in the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems during pregnancy and puerperium in the plasma levels. However, reference ranges based on healthy people are not optimal for informing clinical decisions during the pregnancy and puerperium. Therefore, it is essential to explore coagulation assays' reference ranges during the pregnancy and puerperium. Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT), fibrinogen (Fib.), and D-dimer were all measured according to the manufacturer's specifications and laboratory standard operating procedure of the STA-R evolution coagulation analyzer. A total of 11,601 women were enrolled in this study. The reference ranges for PT, APTT, TT, Fib., and D-dimer in nonpregnancy period were 10.87-13.76 s, 29.22-44.61 s, 15.39-20.15 s, 1.59-3.97 g/l, and 0-0.56 mg/l, respectively. In early-pregnancy period, the ranges were 11.14-14.07 s, 29.97-44.69 s, 14.92-19.03 s, 1.98-4.13 g/l, and 0-1.67 mg/l, respectively. In midpregnancy period, the ranges were 9.98-12.84 s, 28.53-40.70 s, 13.51-19.82 s, 2.63-5.19 g/l, and 0-2.81 mg/l, respectively. In late-pregnancy period, the ranges were 9.48-12.58 s, 28.61-40.80 s, 14.10-19.61 s, 2.80-5.56 g/l, and 0-27.08 mg/l, respectively. In puerperium period, the ranges were 10.85-13.72 s, 30.51-43.02 s, 15.31-19.64 s, 1.14-5.07 g/l, and 1.27-4.85 mg/l, respectively. We presented reference intervals for coagulation assays from the nonpregnancy to puerperium period that can be adopted in other laboratories after further validation.

Changes in serum adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and normal pregnant women during mid- and late pregnancy.

Aims/IntroductionTo observe the longitudinal changes in serum adipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein (AFABP), carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism parameters in women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during mid‐ and late pregnancy periods, as well as to identify whether there is any association between AFABP and development of GDM.Materials and MethodsA total of 40 GDM and 240 normal glucose tolerance participants were enrolled at 24–28 weeks and completed the study. The clinical features, serum AFABP, other adipocytokines (leptin, adiponectin, retinol‐binding protein 4), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, and lipid profiles were measured in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.ResultsCompared with the normal glucose tolerance group, the GDM group showed greater levels of AFABP, leptin and retinol‐binding protein 4; and a decreased level of adiponectin (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) during mid‐ and late pregnancy periods. Prepregnancy body mass index was the independent factor impacting serum AFABP levels in the second (β = 0.567, P = 0.004) and third trimesters (β = 0.619, P = 0.001). Furthermore, GDM was independently associated with AFABP concentrations in multiple regression analysis in the second and third trimester (all P < 0.01). Serum AFABP, leptin and retinol‐binding protein 4 are risk factors for GDM; adiponectin is a protective factor for GDM (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01).ConclusionsThe GDM group had a higher level of AFABP during mid‐ and late stages of pregnancy; prepregnancy body mass index and GDM were the independent factors with respect to serum AFABP. AFABP might be closely related to obesity, insulin resistance and leptin resistance in pregnancy, and is a major risk factor for GDM.

Study of Prevalence of Hetertopic Pregnancies in Rajasthan Population

Out of 500(Five Hundred) pregnancy cases 2 cases of Heterotopic pregnancies.(0.4%)(one tubal, one interstitial) were observed. who undergone Assisted Reproductive Technologies, like IVF, ET. Although transvaginal ultrasonography is performed but Heterotopic pregnancies were ambiguous in early period of pregnancy. As symptoms of normal intra-uterine pregnancy and Heterotopic pregnancy are same. Moreover B-hcG. Levels are also not helpful to differentiate the Hetrotopic pregnancy. As Heterotopic pregnancy is simultaneous occurrence of both intra uterine and Ectopic pregnancy. As it is diagnosed in later period of pregnancy there could be rapture of Falloppian tube may occur leading to life threatening consequences including hypovolmic shock, maternal mortality, fetal loss. If the Hypotopic mass is removed then also it is a great challenge to obstetrician and gynecologist to maintain the normal pregnancy of intra uterine.

IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF Eimeria spp. DURING EARLY NATURAL INFECTION IN GOAT KIDS IN BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR, MEXICO

&lt;p&gt;The aim of this study was to characterize the natural infection by &lt;em&gt;Eimeria spp&lt;/em&gt;. in goat kids, and to describe some pathophysiological responses to eimerosis in kids under intensive rearing conditions in B.C.S, Mexico. Nineteen adult crossbred does naturally infected with mixed &lt;em&gt;Eimeria spp&lt;/em&gt;. and 20 Anglo Nubian x Creole crossbred kids were used. Oocyst per gram of feces (OPG) and identification of Eimeria species were determined in does (during the pre-kidding and post-kidding periods) and kids. Clinical signs, hematocrit, hemoglobin and alkaline phosphatase activity in blood serum were evaluated. OPG (mean±SD) was significantly higher (P&amp;lt;0.05) in pre-kidding (9,478±7,599) than in post-kidding (5,313±2,909) period. Oocyst elimination in feces began at age 59±9 days in kids. Eimerian species identified were &lt;em&gt;E. arloingi&lt;/em&gt;, &lt;em&gt;E. jolchijevi&lt;/em&gt;, &lt;em&gt;E. ninakohlyakimovae&lt;/em&gt;, &lt;em&gt;E. hirci&lt;/em&gt;, &lt;em&gt;E. christenseni&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;E. alijevi&lt;/em&gt;. Kids were humanely sacrificed to evaluate pathological lesions. Intestinal lesions and lesion severity showed differences in duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum and colon, being more severe in duodenum. In conclusion, OPG increased during the late pregnancy in does which favored a doe-kid transmission mechanism. Our results support the notion of Eimeria reproduction rhythms during the late pregnancy period in goats, and this reproduction contribute to vertical transmission of Eimeria to the newborn. However, coccidian outbreaks are developed and clinically observed only when stressing factors such as when weaning occur. Coccidia had devastating effects on the intestine of kids, which might cause long-term permanent malabsortion consequences.&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;

PERFORMANCE AND SOME RUMEN AND BLOOD PARAMETERS OF BALADI COWS FED RATIONS SUPPLEMENTED WITH PRODUCTIVE CHAMOMILE FLOWERS DURING LATE PREGNANCY AND LACTATING PERIODS.

This research was conducted to evaluate effects of two levels of chamomile flowers to the rations of baladi cows on their milk production, feed conversion and feeding values as well as some rumen and blood parameters. A total of 18 cows with average live body weight of 401.00 kg and 2-7 parities, were used in this study. Animals were divided into three groups ( 6 in each group) and fed diets according to NRC (1988) recommendation that contained 0, 5 and 10 g chamomile / 100 kg BW / day. The animals were in the late pregnancy period and continued for 4 months after calving. In addition, 9 Zaraibi bucks were used to evaluate the feeding values of the tested rations, and some rumen liquor parameters . The results showed that the digestion coefficients of all nutrients and feeding values were improved with increasing the level of chamomile ( 0, 5 and 10 g / 100 kg BW / day) in the rations (G1, G2 and G3, respectively) and the differences were significantly in digestibility of DM, CF and CP as well as TDN and DCP %. The results of rumen parameters of Zaraibi bucks showed that pH value and ammonia-N were not significantly different among the groups. But, addition of chamomile had significantly increased total volatile fatty acids (TVFA's) concentrations at 4 hr post-feeding in rumen fluied of bucks. The highest values of protozoa count and microbial protein at 4 hr were recorded with G3 (0.840 and 0.685, respectively) and the lowest values were recorded with G1 ( 0.770 and 0.580, respectively). Concerning biochemical parameters, the results indicated that most tested constituents of blood were not significantly affected by the tested experimental rations during the late pregnancy and lactation periods. Serum globulin was increased while ALT enzyme were reduced as a result of adding chamomile especially with the high level (G3). Daily milk yield was increased by 5.81 and 9.42 % for G2 ( 9.10 kg) and G3 (9.41 kg) compared with the control ( 8.60 kg). However, milk composition was not significantly affected by both of the two levels of chamomile. But, yields of fat and protein as g/d were significantly increased ( p< 0.05) by the high chamomile level. The feed conversion based on DM was improved by about 6.0 and 8.5 % as a result of using chamomile in G2 and G3, respectively compared to G1. A similar trend was noticed when feed efficiency was based on TDN where the best was G3 ( 0.752 ) followed by G2 ( 0.767) and lowest the control group ( 0.794). Accordingly, it could be concluded that using chamomile in baladi cows rations had positive effects not only in improving milk yield, but also in improving feed utilization without any adverse effects on milk composition and blood metabolic parameters.

Interrelationship of some hormonesbelonging to HPG and energy axes inhorses during various reproductive states

In order to reveal interrelationships of hormones during pregnancy and estrus in animals, some reproductive and metabolic hormones including FSH, inhibin B, prolactin and insulin were measured in blood serum of Mongolian horses with respective immunoassays. Concentrations of blood serum FSH, inhibin B and prolactin in mares during their estrus, early, mid and late pregnancy periods were compared. The comparisons demonstrate concentrations of FSH and inhibin B were inversely proportional especially during estrous cycle of mares. As well, these hormones were also measured in blood serum of stallions with the purpose of assessing their reproductive activity. Concentrations of both hormones were lower in blood serum of stallions, which have harems of less conceived mares or it means higher inhibin concentration results in less reproductive activity. Prolactin was minimal during estrus and early pregnancy, while it increases during late pregnancy, but there was no correlations with above two hormones. Measurements of insulin was helpful to learn whether the animal is suffering from metabolic disorder such as insulin resistance, because last half of pregnancy of mares coincides with the period of fattening of pastured animals. However, main outcome of the present study is that all above hormones might be acting in closer relationships during various reproductive states, despite they belong to different axes of endocrine system, including hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (FSH and inhibin)and energy (insulin and prolactin) axes.Mongolian Journal of Agricultural Sciences Vol.15(2) 2015; 10-15

Significant increase of oral bacteria in the early pregnancy period in Japanese women.

Oral microflora during pregnancy is critical to oral health care in the mother and her child. We examined the changes in the oral microbiota between pregnancy and nonpregnancy periods. The study was performed using 132 healthy pregnant women enrolled from Hiroshima City Asa Citizens Hospital and 51 healthy nonpregnant women as control. During pregnancy, 132 subjects were assessed for seven microbial species by the cultured method and polymerase chain reaction at the early (7-16weeks gestation), the middle (17-28weeks), and the late (29-39weeks) pregnancy periods. Pregnant women completed a series of questionnaires regarding oral and systemic health and lifestyle habits. The total cultivable microbial counts in the early pregnancy were significantly higher than that of the nonpregnant women (P<0.05). The incidences of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in gingival sulcus during the early and middle pregnancy were significantly higher than the nonpregnant group (P<0.05), while Prevotella intermedia and Fusobacterium nucleatum did not change. Candida species were more frequently detected during the middle and late pregnancy. The data suggest that pregnancy, especially in the early periods, promotes the proliferation of microorganisms in the oral cavity and facilitates a colonization of periodontal pathogens.

Organ and prenatal toxicity of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Abstract Non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors, commonly referred to as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are among the most taken pharmaceuticals. In adults, they can have a series of side effects, including especially gastroenterotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, chondrotoxicity, and neurotoxicity, and they can induce allergic reactions. Any exacerbation of symptoms depends on the chemical structure of the drug, its dosage and duration of exposure, individual sensitivity, comorbidities and the degree of inhibition of basic COX isoenzymes - the constitutive (COX-2) and induced (COX-1) expressions. However, data on prenatal toxicity are inconsistent. Classic nonselective COX inhibitors do not result in an increase in the risk of developing significant congenital defects; however, if used in the late-pregnancy period, they can have an adverse effect on the foetus, by inducing the premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and by producing a tocolytic effect. Individual reports also indicate the increased risk of developing heart and anterior abdominal wall defects, as well as hypospadias.

Geç Dönemde Gebeliğin Sonlandırılmasının Bir Nedeni Olarak Dev Antenatal Hidronefroz Fetal Otopsi Olgusu

Geç dönemde gebeliğin sonlandırılması tüm dünyada önemli tıbbi ve etik sorunlar oluşturmaktadır. Bu dönemde gebeliğin sonlandırılması için ciddi tıbbi ve ya sosyal endikasyonların bulunması gerekmektedir. Burada antenatal hidronefroza bağlı annenin isteği ile gebeliğin geç dönemde sonlandırılmasına dair bir olgu sunulmuştur. Antenatal hidronefroz, postnatal dönemde spontan gerileme göstermesi ve tedavi olanaklarının bulunması nedeni ile gebeliğin sonlandırılması için ciddi bir endikasyon oluşturmamaktadır. Özellikle kürtaj komplikasyonlarının sık rastlandığı geç dönem gebeliklerde bu gibi nedenlere dayanarak gebeliğin sonlandırılması risklidir. Bu bakımdan sağlık çalışanlarının anne adayına ve ailesine mevcut hastalık, hastalığın seyri ve tedavisi konusunda yeterli bilgi vermesi önem arz etmektedir.Anahtar kelimeler: Antenatal hidronefroz, fetüs, otopsi, ultrasonografi.

Subsequent Pregnancy in a Patient With Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an exceedingly rare condition that primarily affects women in late pregnancy and post partum period. While rare, the mortality in the acute episode may approach 38%. In the literature there are several reports of SCAD in pregnancy and the post partum period but none describe the management of such patients in a subsequent pregnancy. We report a case of SCAD in the post partum period requiring coronary intervention with placement of four stents. The patient presents for prenatal care for a subsequent unplanned but desired pregnancy. Multidisciplinary care was instituted, including close cardiology follow-up. She remained asymptomatic throughout the pregnancy and post partum period. SCAD as a rare cause of acute coronary syndrome carries a significant mortality especially if there is a delay in diagnosis, and management. It should be an important part of the differential diagnoses for a clinician working up a female patient with chest pain in late pregnancy and post partum period. While our patient had a favorable outcome during the subsequent pregnancy, delivery and post partum periods, close follow-up and co-management with cardiology is important in the care of such patients. Given the lack of available clinical information, management recommendations are suggested using expert opinion and tangential data. J Clin Gynecol Obstet. 2015;4(1):177-178 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jcgo244w

Blood Malondialdehyde, Reproductive, and Lactation Performances of Ewes Fed High PUFA Rations Supplemented with Different Antioxidant Sources

The aims of this study were to evaluate the effect of vitamin E (vit E) and black tea extract (BTE) as antioxidant sources in high poly-unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) rations on blood malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations and the performance of reproduction and lactation of Garut ewes. Twelve ewes on late pregnancy periods were divided into completely randomized design (CRD) with 3 treatments and 4 replicates. The treatments were control: basal diet without antioxidant, vit E: basal diet supplemented with vit E, and BTE: basal diet supplemented with BTE. The results showed that vit E and BTE supplementation did not affect blood MDA concentration of ewes on late pregnancy, lactation periods, and weaning periods. Antioxidant sources supplementation had no effect on ewe’s nutrient intake, pre-lambing live weight change (LWC), and post-lambing average daily gain (ADG). Vit E supplementation had decreased the milk production, but both of antioxidant sources give positive effect on the milk composition. Nevertheless, the supplementation of vit E and BTE increased the twin type of birth. The vit E supplementation resulted higher lambing rate than BTE, although it had the highest mortality rate of twin lamb. BTE also had better lamb weaning weight than vit E. BTE and vit E gave similar results in ewes productivity on lactation period. In conclusion, this study confirmed that BTE was more effective used as antioxidant source than vit E to prevent the oxidative reaction of PUFA. Vit E supplementation on high PUFA ration reduced ewes milk production but it had similar reproduction performance with BTE. Key words: antioxidant, black tea extract, ewes, lactation, reproduction, vitamin E

Prospective study on the isolated ventricular septal defect in fetus

Congenital heart defect is one of the most common birth defects. The isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) has higher morbidity, and spontaneous closure may occur. Previously many studies about the prognosis of ventricular septal defect in childhood were conducted; in contrast, few studies on evolution and prognosis of ventricular septal defect from fetus to postnatal life have been available. This research aimed to determine the evolution of isolated ventricular septal defect during the period of fetus and postnatal life, and analyze the association between the diameter or location of VSD and the spontaneous closure of VSD. All pregnant women seen at the prenatal diagnosis center of the West China Second Hospital were recruited. From June 2011 to June 2014, these participants underwent the fetal 2-dimensional and color Doppler echocardiographic examinations, and the fetuses with isolated VSD were included in the study, and those with other malformations or abnormal chromosome were excluded. This study was a prospective and longitudinal research. These fetuses were followed-up until the VSD closed spontaneously, or were surgically repaired or percutaneously closed. Outcomes of all the cases were recorded. There were 234 fetuses with isolated VSD who were recruited in our research cohort. Twelve of 234 lost to follow-up, 5 of 234 were still in uterus. Totally 217 fetuses were followed up. One hundred eighty-nine of 217 (87.1%) cases were delivered. The pregnancies were terminated in 28 of 217 (12.9%) cases. Ten cases died after birth. Of the 179 delivered cases, the rate of VSD spontaneous closure was 45.2% (81/179), the VSD of 49 cases (27.4%, 49/179) spontaneously closed in uterus. The VSD of 17.9% (32/179) cases spontaneously closed after birth and those of 75% (24/32) cases closed in the first year of life. Furthermore, these participants were divided into 3 groups according to the diameter of VSD in fetus. There were 87 cases in ≤ 2.0 mm group, 51 spontaneously closed (59%, 51/87) and 30 of 84 spontaneously closed (36%, 30/84) in 2.1-5.0 mm group. There were no spontaneous closure in > 5.0 mm group. There was a significant difference in spontaneous closure rate between the 3 groups (χ(2) = 15.200, P = 0.001). Nevertheless, these participants were divided into 2 groups according to the location of VSD in fetus (perimembrane VSD (P-VSD) group and muscular VSD (M-VSD) group). There were 152 cases in P-VSD group, 69 spontaneously closed (45.4%, 69/152) and 12 of 27 spontaneously closed (44%, 12/27) in M-VSD group. There was no significant difference in spontaneous closure between P-VSD and M-VSD (χ(2) = 0.008, P = 0.950). There was a high spontaneous closure rate of VSD in the period of late pregnancy. The most of postnatal VSD were spontaneously closed within one year of age. The spontaneous closure rates of fetal VSD with different diameter were different. The spontaneous closure rate of VSD with smaller diameter was higher.

Metabolic profile of pregnant, non-pregnant and male twohumped camels (Camelus bactrianus) of Iran

BACKGROUND: The knowledge in blood constituents isimportant for assessing the physiological status and the health ofanimals. Only a limited number of two-humped camels (Camelusbactrianus) were reared in Ardabil province, northwest of Iran.OBJECTIVES:The present study was carried out to find out whetherthe sex and pregnancy affect thyroid hormones, lipid andlipoprotein profile, and selected biochemical factors in healthyIranian Bactrian camels. METHODS:The evaluated herd containedtwenty clinical healthy Bactrian camels, aged between four andthirteen years. Six of them were non-pregnant, five in the late periodof pregnancy, and nine were male camels. Blood samples (10 mL)were collected from the jugular vein of camels in spring 2013 duringtwo consecutive days. All samples were centrifuged at 3000× rpmfor 15 min and sera were refrigerated at -21°C until analysis.Thyroid function tests were carried out by measuring serum levelsof thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free and total thyroxin(fT4), (T4), and free and total triiodothyronine (fT3), (T3) bycommercially available radio immunoassay kits. The biochemicalparameters were measured using a standard autoanalyser(Hitachi717, Boehringer. Mannheim, Germany). RESULTS: Thelevels of fT4, HDL-Cholesterol, ALP, and glucose in the sera ofpregnant camels were significantly lower than the male and nonpregnantcamels. The serum levels of other parameters were notsignificantly different among the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Thepresent study revealed that heavy pregnancy has a profound effecton certain serum biochemical parameters in Bactrian camels.

Effects of Pregnancy and Lactation on Iron Metabolism in Rats.

In female, inadequate iron supply is a highly prevalent problem that often leads to iron-deficiency anemia. This study aimed to understand the effects of pregnancy and lactation on iron metabolism. Rats with different days of gestation and lactation were used to determine the variations in iron stores and serum iron level and the changes in expression of iron metabolism-related proteins, including ferritin, ferroportin 1 (FPN1), ceruloplasmin (Cp), divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1), transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1), and the major iron-regulatory molecule—hepcidin. We found that iron stores decline dramatically at late-pregnancy period, and the low iron store status persists throughout the lactation period. The significantly increased FPN1 level in small intestine facilitates digestive iron absorption, which maintains the serum iron concentration at a near-normal level to meet the increase of iron requirements. Moreover, a significant decrease of hepcidin expression is observed during late-pregnancy and early-lactation stages, suggesting the important regulatory role that hepcidin plays in iron metabolism during pregnancy and lactation. These results are fundamental to the understanding of iron homeostasis during pregnancy and lactation and may provide experimental bases for future studies to identify key molecules expressed during these special periods that regulate the expression of hepcidin, to eventually improve the iron-deficiency status.

Current management of peripartum cardiomyopathy: A review

Demarkis et al in 1971 described 27 patients who presented during pueperium with cardiomegaly, abnormal electrocardiographic findings, congestive heart failure and named the syndrome "peripartum cardiomyopathy". The aim of this review is to document the current concepts in the management of peripartum cardiomyopathy.A search of the literature was done using PubMed, Goggle scholar and books from authors' collections.The cause of the disease might be environmental and genetic factors. Diagnostic echocardiographic criteria include left ventricular ejection fraction of less than 45% or a combination of M-mode fractional shortening of less than 30% and end diastolic dimension of greater than 2.7 cm/m². Electrocardiogram, magnetic resonance imaging, endomyocardial biopsy and cardiac catheterization aid in the diagnosis and management of peripartum cardiomyopathy. Treatment includes both conventional pharcomological heart failure and peripartum cardiomyopathy targeted therapies.Therapeutic decisions are influenced by drug safety profiles during pregnancy and lactation. Mechanical support and transplantation might be necessary in severe cases.Peripartum cardiomyopathy is an uncommon but life threatening cardiac failure of unknown aetiology encountered in late pregnancy or postpartum period. Management aims at improving heart failure symptoms through conventional therapies and then at administering targeted therapies.The risk of recurrence in future pregnancies should always be considered.

İlk trimester düşük PAPP-A seviyeleri ile kötü gebelik sonuçları arasındaki ilişki

Objective: Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) is one of the markers recommended to identify patients at early periods of pregnancy who are under risk in terms of poor pregnancy outcomes. Our aim in this study was to analyze the association between low PAPP-A levels at first trimester and pregnancy complications. Methods: Serum PAPP-A results of pregnancies between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation who referred for first trimester chromosomal anomaly screening were analyzed retrospectively. While 0.35 MoM and higher values were considered as low PAPP-A level, the values between 0.35 and 2.07 MoM were considered as normal PAPP-A level. In order to evaluate poor pregnancy outcomes, the obstetric history of pregnant women including intrauterine growth retardation, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm labor diagnoses, delivery type, birth weight and fetal genders were recorded. Results: The study was carried out on two groups, which are low PAPP-A group including 211 (47.6%) out of 443 pregnant women (PAPP-A ≤0.35 MoM) and normal PAPP-A group including 232 (52.4%) out of 443 pregnant women (2.07 MoM > PAPP-A > 0.35 MoM). The prevalence rates for intrauterine growth retardation (p=0.01), preeclampsia (p=0.019), early-onset preeclampsia (p=0.043), preterm labor (p=0.016), preterm premature rupture of membrane (p=0.038) and iatrogenic preterm labor (p=0.040) were significantly high in the low PAPP-A group compared to the control group. The birth weight was also low (p=0.01) and cesarean section rate was high (p=0.008) in the low PAPP-A group. Conclusion: Our findings confirm that there is a significant association between poor pregnancy outcomes and low maternal serum PAPP-A levels. These observations indicate that the complications appearing at the late periods of pregnancy may be detected at the first trimester.

Nutritional, physiological and microbiological studies on using Biogen-Zinc on productive and reproductive performance of ruminants. 2 - Productive performance, digestion and some blood components of Damascus goats.

ABSTRACTThis experiment designed to study the effect of two levels of Biogen–Zinc (BZ) as a probiotic or a Direct Fed Microbes (DFM) containing Bacillus subtilis and Zinc methionine that work as a feed additive for dairy Damascus goats. The study aimed to recognize the effect of BZ on nutrients digestibility, some rumen parameters, some blood parameters, milk yield and composition, daily gain of kids and economic efficiency. Thirty-six Damascus does (1-2parities), with 48.2 kg average BW and 1.5- 2 years old (within the last 45 days of pregnancy and 90 days post kidding) chosen and divided into three similar groups (12 does each) according to their body weight and fed according to NRC (1981). The control group was fed basal ration composed of 60% concentrate feed mixture (CFM), 20% berseem hay (BH) and 20% rice straw (RS), without additives. The tested groups (BZ1and BZ2) fed the control ration supplemented with Biogen–Zinc (BZ1) at levels 0.5 g BZ/h/d (25 mg Zn) and 1.0 g BZ/h/d (50 mg Zn), respectively.The obtained results could summarized as follows1- Supplementing dairy Damascus goats’ rations with the two levels of BZ improved the digestibility of all nutrients within late pregnancy and lactation periods.2- Biogen–Zinc treatments led to a significant increase in both birth and weaning weights of kids. The best weights occurred with BZ2.3- Milk yield and composition increased by addition of BZ to diets.4- Biogen–Zinc improved the biochemical parameters of blood total protein, globulin, glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, total lipids and concentrations of zinc, iron, calcium and phosphorus in blood plasma within late pregnancy and lactation period.5- Feed and economic efficiencies were better for animals fed supplemented BZ2 than other groups.Accordingly, it could concluded that Biogen–Zinc, as a probiotic, supplementation for ration of dairy Damascus goats could improve nutrients digestibility, nutritive value, increase kids born and weaning weights, milk yield and composition, beside better-feed conversion efficiency and economic efficiency.