Male Birth Weight Research Articles

Performance Of Etawa Crossbreed (PE) in The Colony

The research was carried out in Selopanggung Village, Semen District, Kediri Regency by taking the research site at the PE goat farm owned by Refangga and Samsuri. The livestock observed were male Peranakan Etawah (PE) goats. This study used a survey method, t test and the parameters used were birth weight, body weight, weaning weight and qualitative traits of male etawah breed. And the conclusion of this study is that at Refangga farms the average birth weight of males was 8.33 ± 2.25, and the average body weight was 14.44 ± 1.83, the average weaning weight was 11.37 ± 2.19. Meanwhile in Samsuri, the average male birth weight was 4.82 ± 0.33, the average body weight was 7.12 ± 1.76. Weaning weight 10.07 ± 1.47.

Maternal Folic Acid and Dietary Folate Intake in Relation to Sex Ratio at Birth and Sex-Specific Birth Weight in China.

It is well-established that prenatal folic acid supplements can reduce neural tube defects. However, the associations between folic acid supplementation, dietary folate intake, and overall folate intake with sex-specific birth outcomes are not yet fully understood. This study aims to investigate the association of periconceptional folic acid supplement, dietary folate, and total folate intake with the sex ratio at birth and sex-specific birth weight. Data were sourced from a cross-sectional survey conducted between August and December 2013 in Northwest China, involving 7318 infants and their mothers, recruited using a stratified multistage random sampling method. Folic acid supplements (400 μg/d) were ascertained via a retrospective in-person interview. Dietary folate was evaluated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Birth outcomes, including sex and weight at birth, were obtained from the Medical Certificate of Birth. Generalized linear models were employed to calculate relative risks (RRs) or differences with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). No association or dose-response relationship was observed between folic acid supplement, dietary folate, and total folate intake during periconception and the likelihood of male births. However, women who took folic acid supplements during pre- and post-conception were associated with an increased male birth weight by 52.8 (8.1 to 97.5) g. Additionally, the total folate intake during periconception was associated with birth weight for males (upper vs. lower tertile: β = 38.8, 95%CI: 5.0 to 72.5 g, p-trend = 0.024) and females (upper vs. lower tertile: β = 42.4, 95%CI: 6.7 to 78.1; p-trend = 0.022). Our findings indicate that periconceptional total folate intake does not correlate with sex ratio at birth but was positively linked to infant birth weights, regardless of gender. These findings offer novel insights into potential benefits of total folate intake, beyond the prevention of neural tube defects, for policymakers and public health.

Effects of prenatal stress on reproductive function of male offspring through the KISS1 system.

Prenatal stress can lead to the programming of the neuroendocrine system in male offspring, disrupting the hypothalamic testicular axis and adversely affecting the reproductive health of male offspring. This study aimed to determine the long-term effects of prenatal stress on the KISS1 system in male offspring and the effects on reproductive function in male offspring. Sixteen pregnant females were divided into a prenatal control group (PC, n = 8) and a prenatal stress group (PS, n = 8). The PS group was modeled with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) from day 1 of gestation to full-term delivery. Differences between the two groups in various maternal parameters, including glucocorticoid secretion, litter size, and the effects of male offspring birth weight, the KISS1 system, and reproductive function, were determined. Male offspring of PS dams had lower birth weights compared to prenatal controls.KISS1 gene expression is reduced at birth and in adult PS offspring, and its receptor KISS1-R protein is similarly reduced in PS offspring at birth and adulthood. In adulthood, PS male offspring show significantly reduced sex hormone production, altered testicular morphology, reduced maturation of their supporting cells, and decreased expression of connexin 43 (CX43), leading to an altered sperm microenvironment and reduced sperm quality. In conclusion, prenatal stress leads to adverse changes in the KISS1 system in male offspring and decreased reproductive function.

Neonatal mortality rate and determinants among births of mothers at extreme ages of reproductive life in low and middle income countries

Neonatal mortality, which refers to the death of neonates during the first 28 completed days of life, is a critical global public health concern. The neonatal period is widely recognized as one of the most precarious phases in human life. Research has indicated that maternal extreme ages during reproductive years significantly impact neonatal survival, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Consequently, this study aims to evaluate the neonatal mortality rate and determinants among neonates born to mothers at extreme reproductive ages within these countries. A secondary analysis of demographic and health surveys conducted between 2015 and 2022 in 43 low- and middle-income countries was performed. The study included a total sample of 151,685 live births. Researchers utilized a multilevel mixed-effects model to identify determinants of neonatal mortality. The measures of association were evaluated using the adjusted odds ratio within a 95% confidence interval. The neonatal mortality rate among neonates born to mothers at extreme ages of reproductive life in low- and middle-income countries was 28.96 neonatal deaths per 1000 live births (95% CI 28.13–29.82). Factors associated with higher rates of neonatal mortality include male gender, low and high birth weight, maternal education (no or low), home deliveries, multiple births, short preceding birth intervals, lack of postnatal checkups, and countries with high fertility and low literacy rates. This study sheds light on the neonatal mortality rates among neonates born to mothers at extreme ages of reproductive life in low- and middle-income countries. Notably, we found that neonatal mortality was significantly higher in this group compared to neonatal mortality rates reported regardless of maternal ages. Male babies, low and high birth-weighted babies, those born to mothers with no or low education, delivered at home, singletons, babies born with a small preceding birth interval, and those without postnatal checkups faced elevated risks of neonatal mortality. Additionally, neonates born in countries with high fertility and low literacy rates were also vulnerable. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions tailored to mothers at extreme ages. Policymakers and healthcare providers should prioritize strategies that address specific risk factors prevalent in these vulnerable populations. By doing so, we can improve neonatal outcomes and ensure the survival of these newborns during the critical neonatal period.

Behaviour of the population structure and performance indicators in sheep production systems in Colombia

Objective. The behavior of the population structure, indicators of reproduction and production in sheep were determined. Materials and methods. 104 sheep farms were monitored, in 7 regions of Colombia, corresponding to a population of 7708 animals, distributed in: Inventory, Infants, Growth 1, Development, Completion and Adults. It was applied descriptive statistics and simple ANOVA and with covariance. Results. The mean Inventory per farm is 74.1±79 heads; category Infants corresponds to 8.7% of the population, Growth1 15.3%, Development 12%, Completion 20.8% and Adults 43.3%. The Age of Conception in Corderas was 15.7±5.5 months; Age at First Delivery of 20.7±5.5 months; the Birth Interval Concepción was 160.3±65.4 days, the Interval Between Births was 310.3±65.4 days. The Birth Weight of males was 4.2±4 kg and females 3.4±1.2 kg, without significant differences (p>0.05); Weaning Weight, adjusted at 90 days (3 months) in males was 16.8±6.4 kg and females 16.3±5.6 kg, without significant differences (p>0.05); the weight at 12 months for males was 34.9±13.7 kg and females 33.4±10.7 kg, without significant differences (p>0.05). Discussion. Different sizes of farms are evident; the onset of reproductive activity is late, with Interval Between Births that maintain a not very dynamic reproductive rhythm. The productive variables are within the range. Conclusions. The indicators obtained represent referential information on the population structure and productive behavior of sheep production systems in the seven monitored regions of Colombia.

Chronic Undernutrition in Ovine Twin Pregnancies Abolishes Differences in Birth Weight Due to Sex: An Evaluation of the Role of Nutritional and Antioxidant Supplementation.

In twin pregnancies of discordant sex, the male fetus grows larger than the female co-twin. Our study aimed to determine the effect of the sex of co-twins on lambs' birth weight in ovine pregnancies developed under natural undernourishment. Additionally, we investigated whether the nutritional and/or antioxidant supplementation provided to ewes during pregnancy could modulate the potential effects associated with the sex of co-twins. Ninety-six birth records of twin pregnancies of sheep grazing the natural Patagonian prairies were analyzed. The animals were divided into four groups: control (no supplementation), N (concentrate supplementation, 100% NRC), A (antioxidant supplementation), and NA (concentrate + antioxidant supplementation). Supplementation occurred from day 35 of gestation onwards until lambing. There were no differences in female or male birth weight in the control undernourished group. However, in group N, females or males with sex-discordant co-twins had a higher birth weight than did those with co-twins of the same sex. Group A males with female co-twins had a higher birth weight compared to males whose co-twins were also males. In NA lambs, males had a higher birth weight compared to females, regardless of their co-twin's sex. Therefore, chronic undernutrition abolished the differences in birth weight due to fetal sex. Restoring maternal nutrition or antioxidant supplementation tends to normalize birth weight and restore the differences between females and males. This effect is enhanced with the combined supplementation of concentrated food and antioxidants.

205 Level of Supplemental Fat in the Diet of Gestating Beef Cows: Effects on Cow and Calf Performance

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of feeding a canola seed-based (7.2% ether extract) pellet to gestating cows on cow performance, reproductive efficiency, milk yield and composition, and calf birth weight. Seventy-two pregnant, multiparous cows were allocated to 12 pens in a completely randomized block design. Body weight (BW; 605 ± 35 kg) was utilized as the blocking criteria. Diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous (CP: 8.20 ± 0.24% and 9.07 ± 0.05% second and third trimesters, respectively) and isocaloric (TDN: 58.29 ± 0.24% and 60.50 ± 0.04% second and third trimesters, respectively), and to meet NASEM (2016) nutrient requirements for pregnant beef cattle. Pens were randomly assigned to three replicated (n = 4) dietary treatments: 0 (CON), 150 (LOW), and 300 (HIGH) g of fat/d (DM basis). Dietary treatments were fed from 148 ± 8 d prepartum until at least 50% of all cows had calved, then switched to a common lactation diet. Body condition score (BCS), BW and subcutaneous fat thickness were measured at the start (SOT) and end of trial (EOT), and at 21 and 42 d postpartum. Orthogonal contrasts were used to assess linear and quadratic relationships between fat inclusion and dependent variables. At SOT, there were no differences (P ≥ 0.73) in conceptus corrected BW (597 ± 34 kg) or (P ≥ 0.13) BCS (2.85 ± 0.12, Canadian System: 1 to 5). After 84 d on trial (64 ± 8 d prepartum), conceptus corrected average daily gain (ADG) increased linearly (P = 0.04) as fat inclusion increased. After 151 d of supplementation (EOT), conceptus corrected ADG and subcutaneous fat thickness did not differ (P ≥ 0.71 and 0.63, respectively). BCS change from SOT to EOT increased, while EOT to 21 d postpartum decreased quadratically as fat inclusion increased (P = 0.02 and 0.01, respectively). Female calf birth weight decreased quadratically (P = 0.01) as fat inclusion increased, but there was no effect (P ≥ 0.75) on male calf birth weight. As fat inclusion increased, lactose concentration in milk decreased linearly (P = 0.04). As days in milk (DIM) increased, milk protein, total solids, and milk energy yield decreased (P ≤ 0.05). Milk urea-N tended to increase (P = 0.07), while 12 h milk yield (P = 0.05) tended to decrease as DIM increased. Milk fat and energy were not affected by fat inclusion, day, or the interaction between fat inclusion and day (P ≥ 0.16). There was a quadratic tendency for fat inclusion to affect pregnancy rate (P = 0.09), being maximized on LOW treatment. These results suggest that increasing fat inclusion during mid-to-late gestation tended to improve cow reproductive efficiency. Further investigation is required to determine the optimal level of fat inclusion from canola seed.

The Relationship between Sociodemographic Factors and Short Stature in Toddlers

Stature is the human physical form or somatotypes. Stature is often associated with sociodemographic factors. However, now, further evidence is needed about this phenomenon, especially in the toddler population. This study aims to analyze the relationship between sociodemographic factors and short stature in toddlers. Cross-sectional study design. The population is 303 toddlers aged 12-60 months in Lojejer Wuluhan Jember Village, East Java. A total of 172 samples were taken by cluster sampling. Sociodemographic variables that were measured included: father's age, mother's age, father's education, mother's education, family income, under-five gender, and birth weight. Toddler stature dependent variable. Data collection techniques using observation and questionnaires. Data analysis using logistic regression. The results showed that the variables of family income, child's gender, and birth weight had a relationship with short stature in toddlers. The results of the modeling analysis showed that male sex (p 0.004, AOR 3.94, 95% CI 1.54 to 10.07) and birth weight (p <0.001, AOR 39.005, 95% CI 7.69 up to 197.63) have been shown to have a significant relationship with short stature in toddlers. Birth weight is an illustration of the nutritional status of toddlers during the intra-uterine period. This study concluded that male toddlers have a higher risk of experiencing short stature compared to female toddlers. Babies born with low birth weight are at risk of experiencing short stature compared to those with normal birth weight and more. Nutritional status at birth is the initial capital for children's growth in the Toddler period. Therefore, the government needs to establish stricter policies so that pregnant women get assurance of adequate nutritional intake for themselves and their babies. In addition, it is necessary to carry out further studies related to mediating variables related to gender and their effect on short stature.

Abstract P200: Tnf-α Blockade During Pregnancy Does Not Impact Offspring Development In A Rat Model Of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE), new onset hypertension during pregnancy, is associated with increased tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), agonistic autoantibodies to the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-AA), and low birth weight babies. We have previously shown that Etanercept ( E ), a TNF-α inhibitor, improves PE features in the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat. However, the long-term effect of E on offspring health and immune competency has not been studied. Therefore, we hypothesize that E will improve maternal health without affecting offspring outcomes in a rat model of PE. To test this hypothesis, E (0.4 mg/kg) was injected on gestation day 18 into sham and RUPP dams which were allowed to deliver. Weights were recorded at birth and 16 weeks of age when mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured. Whole blood was collected to measure immune cells by flow cytometry. AT1-AA was measured using a cardiomyocyte bioassay. A student’s t-test was used to compare differences among male and female RUPP offspring with and without E . RUPP male and female offspring were smaller (5.21±0.19 g, n=7; 5.24±0.10 g, n=7) than sham offspring (5.94±0.14 g, n=7, p<0.05; 5.86±0.16 g, n=9, p<0.01) while RUPP male offspring were larger and female offspring were unchanged following perinatal E (6.01±0.29 g, n=9, p<0.05; 5.28±0.14, n=9). MAP was comparable between sham (133±4 mmHg) and RUPP (132±4 mmHg) male offspring with no change seen following perinatal E (133±4 mmHg). Perinatal E did not impact adult male circulating B cells. Circulating AT1-AA was elevated in male RUPP offspring (16±2 ΔBPM, p<0.01) compared to sham and was not improved with E (13±2 ΔBPM). MAP was comparable in sham (131±5 mmHg) and RUPP (130±5 mmHg) female offspring but trended downward with perinatal E (123±4 mmHg). RUPP female offspring had reduced circulating B cells (4.24±0.81 % gated, p=0.066) compared to sham females (9.56±2.07 % gated) which was normalized following perinatal E (9.04±1.42 % gated, p<0.05). AT1-AA trended lower following perinatal E (7±2 ΔBPM, p=0.0888) compared to RUPP female offspring (16±3 ΔBPM). Our findings indicate that E does not worsen fetal outcomes. Moreover, E improves male birth weight and reduces adult female AT1-AA without compromising offspring immune competency.

PELAKSANAAN ASUHAN KEBIDANAN KOMPREHENSIF PADA NY. E UMUR 27 TAHUN DI PUSKESMAS SEKAR BIRU KABUPATEN BANGKA BARAT

The process of pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and having a baby is a physiological thing for every woman. Complications of pregnancy could be happened in the form of mild or severe complications that can cause pain, disability, and even death for both mother and baby. For this reason, pregnant women are recommended to carry out antenatal care or pregnancy check at least 6 times. The aim of this Final Project was to provide comprehensive midwifery care starting from pregnancy, childbirth, newborns, and family planning using SOAP documentation. This study was conducted in February-April 2022 using data collection methods through interviews and observations. The midwifery care provided to Mrs. E includes pregnancy check-ups 2 times, delivery once, postpartum and newborn visits 4 times, and family planning counseling once. At 38 weeks 5 days of gestation, Mrs. E gave birth at the Sekar Biru health center with a normal delivery. Mrs. E’s baby was born spontaneously and immediately cried with male quality and birth weight 3100 grams and birth length 50 cm. when the baby was a week old, Mrs. E turned out to have given formula milk as an alternative to breast milk. Based on research that has been done, it can be concluded that there are some gaps between theory and practice . Therefore, students are expected to continue to apply quality midwifery care management in order to become competent and qualified health workers.

Evaluation of the repeatability of male calves' birth weights in different grades of Jersey x Red Sindhi crosses

To assess the consistency of birth weight among male calves born to half-J x half-RS, quarter-J x ¾ RS, three-eighths Jersey x five-eighths RS, and one-eighth J x seven-eight RS cows. The SHUATS in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India obtained the data from a pedigree cum history sheet. Male calves born to 77 cows during the first (L1), second (L2), and third (L3) lactations, as well as 127 observations of Jersey x Red Sindhi cows of varying quality, were all measured and recorded in kilos. Increased reproducibility across many cross-breed dairy cow performance tiers indicates superiority. This research shows that choosing cows with higher estimations based on the birth weight. of their male calves can increase the output of herds. The mean of birth weight of male calves L1, L2, and L3 were 18.11, 20.15, 22.07 kg. of ½ J × ½ RS, 20.50, 19.88, 20.77 Kg f ¼ J × ¾ RS crosses, 20.06, 20.88, 22.24 kg. of 3/8 J × 5/8 RS, 19.08, 18.76, 22.83 kg of 1/8 J ×7/8 R.S proportionately. The ranges of birth weight of male calves from the Ist (L1), IInd (L2) and third (L3) lactations were 15.80 - 20.10, 15.80 - 26.6, 19.6 - 25.8 kg. of ½ J × ½ RS, 15.42 - 24.94, 14.51 - 25.70, 13.6 - 28.12 Kg. of ¼ J × ¾ R.S, 14.96 - 26.40, 16.32 - 24.30, 15.42 - 27.50 kg. of 3/8 J × 5/8 RS crosses, 15.87 - 24.23, 12.70 - 24.51, 18.14 - 25.80 kg. of 1/8 J ×7/8 RS respectively. The mean of birth weight of male calves was 20.13 kg. of ½ J × ½ RS, 17.68 Kg. of ¼ J × ¾ RS, 21.07 kg. of 3/8 J × 5/8 RS, 19.92 kg. of 1/8 J ×7/8 RS respectively. The highest birth weight of male calves were 25.8 Kg. and the lowest 15.80 Kg of ½ J × ½ R.S, 28.12 kg. highest and lowest 13.60 kg. of ¼ J × ¾ RS, 27.50 kg at highest and lowest 14.96 kg of 3/8 J × 5/8 RS, 25.8 kg at highest and lowest 12.70 kg. of 1/8 J ×7/8 RS, respectively. The repeatability of birth weight of male calves for 0.60 ± 0.20 of ½ J × ½ RS, 0.46 ± 0.19 of ¼ J × ¾ RS, 0.78 ± 0.15 of 3/8 J × 5/8 RS, 0.57 ± 0.15 of 1/8 J ×7/8 RS. The more repeatability for various grades of crossbred dairy cattle shows better performance.

Risk factors of deficit and non-deficit schizophrenia: Results from a cross-sectional study

AimIt has been observed that deficit and non-deficit schizophrenia (SCZ-D and SCZ-ND) might be characterized by different risk factors. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess as to whether previously reported risk factors of schizophrenia are specifically associated with SCZ-D and SCZ-ND. MethodThis study was based on a cohort of 118 stable outpatients with schizophrenia. A diagnosis of SCZ-D was established using the Schedule for the Deficit Syndrome (SDS). Risk factors were recorded using structured interview, the Operational Criteria for Psychotic Illness (OPCRIT) checklist and the Traumatic Experience Checklist (TEC). The following risk factors were explored: male sex, a history of schizophrenia in first-degree relatives, seasonality of birth, birth weight <3000g, delivery by cesarean section, a history of childhood trauma (emotional abuse, emotional neglect, physical abuse and sexual abuse) as well as substance abuse (other than nicotine) and cigarette smoking at psychosis onset. ResultsIndividuals with SCZ-D were more likely to be males as well as reported higher rates of birth weight <3000g and any categories of childhood trauma. In turn, substance abuse (other than nicotine) at psychosis onset was significantly more frequent in patients with SCZ-ND. Binary logistic regression, controlling for multiple comparisons, revealed similar findings, except for the association with any categories of childhood trauma that appeared to be not significant. ConclusionOur findings partially replicate differential patterns of risk factors for SCZ-D (male sex and birth weight <3000g) and SCZ-ND (substance abuse at psychosis onset), likely attributable to the effects of timing of exposure.

63 Impact of Supplementing Rumen-Protected Methionine During the Periconceptional Period in Fetal and Postnatal Growth in Beef Cattle

Abstract Previous evidence has suggested that fertilization and preimplantation embryonic development are sensitive periods that can be influenced by changes in maternal nutrition. We hypothesized that feeding rumen-protected methionine (RP-Met) during the periconceptional period will program bovine gestation in a manner that enhances fetal and postnatal growth. A total of 114 cows were fed a roughage-based diet and randomized to receive corn gluten supplemented with 15 g of RP-Met (RP-Met; Smartamine, Adisseo) or not (Con) from d -7 to +7 relative to artificial insemination (AI) with sex-sorted semen. Estrus synchronization was conducted using the 7-day CoSynch + CIDR protocol. Pregnancy diagnosis, embryo, and fetal morphology were conducted using transrectal ultrasonography 30, and 60 days after AI. After calving, 40 calves (Cont = 19; RP-Met = 21) were considered for birth weight (BW) analysis. Female calves (n=34) were weighed at 2 months of age. Pregnancy per AI at day 30 (Con = 50%, RP-Met = 55%) and day 60 (Con = 50%; RP-Met = 53.4%) were not different between groups (P ≥ 0.05). At 30 days of pregnancy, embryonic vesicle diameter (Con=11.0 ± 0.7 mm; RP-Met =11.6 ± 0.7 mm; P &amp;lt; 0.05) and circumference (Con=0.88 ± 0.09 cm2; RP-Met =0.99 ± 0.09 cm2 P &amp;lt; 0.05) were larger in the RP-Met group but embryo length and abdominal cavity were not different between groups. No difference was observed in fetal morphology at d 60. A treatment by sex interaction was observed (P =0.04). Male calves (n=6) from cows fed RP-Met showed greater BW than those from Con group (Con=31.9 ± 2.3 kg; RP-Met =41.4 ± 2.3 kg) but no difference was observed in females (n=34). There was no difference in BW at 2 months of age between groups. In conclusion, using RP-Met increased embryonic vesicle diameter and circumference, and BW in males.

Goat Saanen Productivity at the Dairy and Forage National Breeding Centre Baturraden, Central Java, Indonesia

This study aimed to determine the productivity of the Saanen goat, which was carried out at the dairy and forage national breeding centre (BBPTU-HPT) in Baturraden, Central Java, Indonesia. The variables observed were birth weight, litter size and type of birth. This research used the historical survey method. Samples were taken using purposive sampling. The bucks and does mean birth weights were 2.81 ± 0.64 and 2.66 ± 0.66 kg, respectively. The average litter size was 1.35 ± 0.51, where litter size parity 1, 2 and 3 were 1.15 ± 0.48, 1.37 ± 0.63 and 1.53 ± 0.42 kids. Single birth is relatively lower (48%) than twins (52%). The conclusion of this research was that the birth weight of males was higher than females; the litter size increased with increasing parity; the type of single birth had a higher birth weight than twins.&#x0D; Keywords: Saanen goat, birth weight, litter size, type of birtha

Educational attainment and offspring birth weight: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study.

Background: The association between educational attainment (EA) and offspring birth weight (BW) has been reported by several traditional epidemiological studies. However, evidence for this association tends to be mixed and confounded. This study aimed to investigate the causal association between EA of parents and offspring BW. Methods: Here, we carried out a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to examine the causal association between EA of males (n = 131,695) and females (n = 162,028) and offspring BW using genetic instruments. Summary statistics of EA associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were extracted from a GWAS incorporating 293,723 individuals of European descent performed by the Social Science Genetic Association Consortium (SSGAC), and the effects of these SNPs on offspring BW were estimated using a GWAS meta-analysis of 86,577 participants of European descent from 25 studies. Univariable MR analyses were conducted using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method and four other methods. Further sensitivity analyses were carried out to test the viability of the results. Multivariable MR was used to examine the confounders between the exposure and outcome. Results: The result shows evidence that the offspring BW is positively causally affected by female EA. Each one standard deviation (SD) increase in female EA was associated with 0.24 SD higher of offspring BW (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10 to 0.37, p < 0.001 for the IVW method). Similarly, change in offspring BW was 0.21 SD (95% CI: 0.07 to 0.34, p = 2.82 × 10-3) per one SD higher in male EA. No causal effect of BW on EA was found by any of the five methods. The causal association between female EA and offspring BW maintained after adjusting for alcoholic drinks per week and BMI. The effect of male EA on offspring BW was attenuated when we adjusted for BMI and alcoholic drinks per week using multivariable MR analysis. Conclusion: Our study indicated that female EA is positively causally associated with offspring BW. The association between male EA and offspring BW may be confounded by alcoholic drinks per week and BMI.

Assessment of Perinatal Clinical Characteristics, Perinatal Risk Factors, and Microbial Profile in Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction in a Tertiary Care Center: A Descriptive Study.

PurposeTo assess the perinatal risk factors, clinical characteristics, and microbial profile in congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO).MethodsA prospective observational study was conducted in pediatric patients of age <5 years. After a thorough clinical evaluation, the diagnosis of the CNLDO was confirmed by a Jones dye test or fluorescein dye disappearance test. A microbiological culture of lacrimal sac resurge was done with a sterile swab stick without touching the lid margins. Antibiotic susceptibility was then performed for the standard antibiotics.ResultsSeventy-one eyes of 52 children were included in the study. The mean age was 3.4 months. Our research found an equal number of cases born via spontaneous vaginal delivery and Caesarean section. Nine children (17.3%) had associated systemic and ocular anomalies. The number of cultures that were positive for any growth was 19 (27%). The most common isolate was Streptococcus pneumoniae which constituted eight cases (42%), followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15.8%), and Escherichia coli (10.5%). Other organisms that grew were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and nonfermenting gram-negative bacilli. Gram-positive organisms were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, amoxiclav, and oxacillin, and most of them were resistant to erythromycin. In comparison, gram-negative organisms showed 62.5% resistance and 37.5% susceptibility to ciprofloxacin.ConclusionsCNLDO was more commonly unilateral, in male, preterm, and normal birth weight infants. Bilateral CNLDO was more commonly associated with coexisting ocular or systemic anomalies. Prematurity, delivery by Caesarean section, and presence of congenital anomalies were associated with a prolonged course. S. pneumoniae was the predominant isolate in our patient population.

Evidence that Murciano-Granadina does with longer anogenital distance are more fertile and prolific and produce heavier and male-biased litters

Anogenital distance (AGD) is related to fertility in cows, but there is little information on the association of AGD and reproduction in does. Therefore, the present study was conducted to assess the relationship between AGD and reproductive variables in Murciano-Granadina does. AGD was measured as the distance between anus and clitoris and does (n = 578) were divided into two categories of AGD, including short AGD (AGD ≤ median of AGD in studied does; n = 313) and long AGD (AGD > median of AGD in studied does; n = 265). Data of reproductive variables were retrieved from the herd database and were analyzed using multivariable statistical models, in which the potential confounding factors were included. AGD data were not normally distributed (3.78 ± 0.02 cm) and ranged from 2.70 to 5.10 cm. AGD was longer in multiparous and primiparous does than nulliparous does (P < 0.0001), and was positively associated with age and body weight (P < 0.0001). The risk of pregnancy and kidding, litter size, fecundity, proportion of male offspring and birth weight of kids were higher in long AGD does than short AGD does (P < 0.05). But abortion risk did not differ between does with long and short AGD (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the present study revealed that AGD had individual variation among Murciano-Granadina does, and does with long AGD were more fertile and more likely to produce larger, heavier and male-biased litters as compared with does with short AGD.

Role of lauric acid against prenatal sleep deprivation-induced-stress rise in corticosterone and low birth weight in rat offspring

Prenatal stress is known to affect the offspring later in life. Lauric acid is a known antioxidant shown to play a protective role in experimental animals. This study examines the role of Lauric acid on sleep deprivation-induced stress on serum corticosterone level and birth weight in male rat pups. Pregnant dams were sleep-deprived using the modified multiple water platform for 20hrs daily from gestational day 9-19. Animals in groups 1 and 2 served as normal and stressed controls respectively, groups 3,4 and 5 received Lauric acid of doses 125mg/kg, 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg respectively while group 6 received Vitamin C 300mg/kg. Male offspring birth weight was recorded and at PND 28-36, were sacrificed and blood was collected for corticosterone assay. Serum corticosterone was significantly higher (p&lt; 0.05) in the sleep-deprivation-induced stress group. Its level was also significantly lower (p&lt;0.05) in the LA and vitamin C treated groups. Birth weight was significantly lower (p&lt;0.05) in the stressed and vitamin C (300mg/kg) groups while being significantly higher (p&lt; 0.05) in LA 125mg/kg group. This finding suggest that Lauric acid protect against rise in serum corticosterone level and improves birth weight in male offspring of dams subjected to sleep deprivation.

Impact of Gonadectomy on Sex‐Selective Dysregulation of Cardiovascular Function Resulting From In UteroExposure to Dexamethasone

Prenatal insults leading to increased fetal glucocorticoid exposure can sex‐selectively impact cardiovascular function in adulthood. In support of this, we have shown that when pregnant rat dams are treated with the glucocorticoid, dexamethasone (DEX), for the last 4 days of gestation, female‐specific changes resulting in enhanced pressor and heart rate (HR) responses to stress occur in adult offspring. Moreover, we demonstrated that females exposed to DEX in uteroshow altered autonomic function compared to vehicle‐exposed females. This is characterized by a reduced high frequency (HF) power component of heart rate variability (HRV) in DEX‐exposed rats, suggesting a lower reliance on parasympathetic drive. The present study evaluated the degree to which the sex‐specific changes in autonomically‐driven cardiovascular responses are due to activational effects of gonadal steroid hormones. Pregnant dams were administered DEX (0.4mg/kg per day, s.c.) or vehicle on gestation days 18‐21. This resulted in a significant reduction in birthweight in DEX‐exposed males and females. At 8 weeks, rats underwent a gonadectomy (GDX) or sham surgery, or remained intact, and at 10 weeks rats were instrumented with radiotelemetric transmitters for direct recording of arterial pressure, HR, and HRV in conscious, freely moving male and female rats. At 11‐12 weeks rats were placed in a restraint tube for 20 minutes, followed by a 3‐hour recovery period, to assess whether GDX alters the sex‐specific stress responses in DEX‐exposed offspring. Restraint‐stress testing was performed on diestrus in intact and sham females, and absence of cycling in GDX females was confirmed via cytological analysis. We demonstrate that intact females, but not males, that were exposed to DEX in utero exhibit an exaggerated pressor response to restraint, as compared to vehicle‐exposed females. We found that GDX did not alter stress‐responsive MAP in males regardless of prenatal treatment, suggesting testosterone does not play a role in acute cardiovascular stress responses in adult rats. In vehicle‐exposed females, when compared to intact, both sham and GDX surgery resulted in an exaggerated pressor response to restraint. However, in females that were prenatally exposed to DEX, there was no difference in the pressor response to restraint between intact, sham, and GDX rats. This suggests that the exaggerated pressor response observed in DEX females compared to males is not due to activational effects of estradiol. GDX was shown to have opposing effects on HRV in males and females, with no influence of prior DEX. In females, GDX resulted in a tendency toward reduced HF (p=0.065) and low frequency (LF, p=0.074) power component of HRV, whereas males showed a significant increase in HF (p=0.044) and a tendency toward increased LF (0.051). Taken together, activational effects of gonadal steroids appear to impact HRV, but not acute cardiovascular responses to stress. It may be that gonadal steroids act at an organizational level to mediate the sex difference observed in rats exposed to DEX in utero. Future studies to identify the mechanisms by which prenatal dexamethasone produce long‐term changes in cardiovascular function will be important for better understanding the sex‐specific consequences of prenatal programming over the lifespan.

Effects of oral glutamine supplementation on jejunal morphology, development, and amino acid profiles in male low birth weight suckling piglets.

BackgroundIt has been shown that small intestine development in low birth weight (LBW) piglets is impaired. Glutamine (Gln) has been reported to improve piglet health and intestinal function in weaned piglets, but data is scarce in suckling piglets. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of oral Gln supplementation compared to Alanine (Ala) on jejunal development and function in 5 and 12 d old male LBW and normal birth weight (NBW) suckling piglets.ResultsGln had no effect on the jejunal morphology, development, tissue and digesta amino acid profiles and mRNA abundance of genes involved in amino acid transport, metabolism, glutathione synthesis in LBW piglets when compared to Ala supplementation and birth weight controls at 5 and 12 d. Only the concentration of Gln in jejunal tissue was higher in NBW piglets supplemented with Gln compared to Ala at 5 d (P < 0.05). A comparison of the birth weight groups showed no differences between LBW and NBW piglets at 5 and 12 d in any parameter. Jejunal crypt depth, villus height / width, tunica muscularis thickness, number of goblet and IgA positive cells, the ratio of jejunal RNA to DNA and the concentration of DNA, protein and RNA changed (P < 0.05) from 5 compared to 12 d. The concentrations of several free, and protein bound amino acids as well as amino metabolites differed between age groups in jejunal tissue but the digesta concentrations were affected to a lesser extent.ConclusionsOral Gln supplementation to suckling male piglets over the first 12 d of life was not associated with changes in jejunal parameters measured in this study. The absence of effects may indicate that Gln is absorbed as well as metabolized in the upper intestinal tract and thus could benefit intestinal development at a more proximal location.