Maternal Body Weight Research Articles

The comparison of perinatal clinical characteristics between severe SGA and mild SGA according to the latest birth curve in China

ObjectiveTo explore the perinatal clinical characteristics of Small for Gestational Age (SGA) and to compare the predictive value of two growth curves for adverse neonatal outcomes. Methods131 Neonates diagnosed with SGA in the Peking University First Hospital from January to June 2021 were enrolled. According to the percentile of birth weight (BW), they were divided into two groups: 105 cases in the mild SGA group (BW between the 3rd and 10th centile) and 26 cases in the severe SGA group (BW lower than the 3rd centile). The general data and clinical information of mothers and neonates were collected to compare the differences of maternal complications and neonatal outcomes in different groups of SGAs. Results(1)The incidence of preeclampsia and preterm delivery in severe SGA group was significantly higher than that in mild SGA group. The incidence of neonatal hypoglycemia and neonatal anemia in severe SGA group was significantly higher than that in mild SGA group. (2)The maternal Body weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) of mild SGA group were lower than those of severe SGA group. (3)In addition, compared with the 2015 birth weight curve, the 2020 birth weight curve has better sensitivity,specificity,positive predictive value and negative predictive value in predicting adverse neonatal outcome (ANO) . ConclusionThe risk of neonatal complications is significantly increasing in the severe SGA group. Perinatal monitoring of SGA patients should be strengthened. Mild SGA was associated with lower maternal BMI. The 2020 neonatal curve is more valuable for ANO prediction.

Maternal factors increase risk of orofacial cleft: a meta-analysis

Orofacial clefts are among the most prevalent birth defects, with severe medical and psychosocial consequences. Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL ± P) and cleft palate only (CPO) affect on average nearly 1/700 births worldwide. The cause of most non-syndromic cases is unknown. Maternal factors and disorders are assumed to modify the risk of orofacial clefting. In the present study, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze the effects of maternal underweight, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, as well as smoking, and alcohol consumption on the development of orofacial clefts. As CL ± CP and CPO have distinct pathogenetic backgrounds, these cleft subtypes were assessed separately. Altogether, 5,830 studies were identified and 64 of them met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Obesity significantly elevated the odds of clefting (OR = 1.28, CI:1.08–1.51) (ORCL±CP = 1.23, CI:1.01–1.50; ORCPO = 1.31, CI:0.97–1.77). Maternal underweight also significantly increased the odds of clefting (OR = 1.21 CI:1.06–1.38). In mothers with type 1 diabetes, the odds of cleft development were significantly elevated (OR = 1,75, CI:1.45–2.12). Essential hypertension was also associated with higher odds of developing cleft (OR = 1.55, CI:1.18–2.03). Smoking during pregnancy significantly elevated the odds of cleft development (OR = 1.55, CI:1.34–1.79) (ORCL±CP = 1.58, CI:1.36–1.83; ORCPO = 1.50, CI:1.15–1.96). Passive smoking was even more damaging than active tobacco use, but alcohol consumption had no effect. In conclusion, this study clearly showed the importance of maintaining normal maternal body weight and emphasized the importance of hypertension and type 1 diabetes care in the first months of pregnancy. It also highlighted similarnegative effects of passive and active smoking, while alcohol consumption did not seem to be a significant risk factor for cleft development. However, there is a complete lack of available studies on the interactions of these factors, which is an essential direction for improving prevention.

Intrauterine growth-restricted pregnant rats, from placental ischemic dams, display preeclamptic-like symptoms: A new rat model of preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by de novo hypertension (HTN) and is often associated with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Hallmarks of PE are placental ischemia, decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, oxidative stress (OS), and organ damage in the kidneys and brain. This study aims to characterize a new model of PE using pregnant IUGR rats from hypertensive placental ischemic dams. It is hypothesized that pregnant IUGR rats from hypertensive placental ischemic dams will have elevated blood pressure (BP), OS, and organ damage. In this study, pregnant rats are divided into two groups: normal pregnant (NP) and hypertensive placental ischemic dams (RUPP). Offspring from NP and RUPP dams were mated at 10 weeks of age to generate pregnant IUGR (IUGR Preg) and pregnant control (CON Preg) rats. BP and other markers of PE were evaluated during late gestation. Pregnant IUGR rats had elevated BP and systemic OS. The maternal body weight of pregnant IUGR rats and their pups' weights were decreased, while the brains were enlarged with elevated OS. In summary, pregnant IUGR rats, born from hypertensive placental ischemic dams, have HTN and increased systemic and brain OS, with larger brain sizes and smaller pups. Furthermore, this study shows that pregnant IUGR rats exhibit a preeclamptic-like phenotype, suggesting a new epigenetic model of PE.

Bioactive compounds enrichment in rabbit doe’s diet pre-and during pregnancy improves productive and reproductive performance and cost-effectiveness under hot climates

This study aimed to investigate the effect of diet supplementation with a symbiotic (SY), bee pollen (BP), honey bee (HB), date palm pollen (DPP) and their mixture (MIX) on female rabbit productive and reproductive performances under desert hot climates. Seventy-two Californian does of 5 months age and average body weight of 3250 ± 78.2 g were randomly allotted into six groups, each of 12 does. All does orally receive 3 ml distilled water for 10 days before mating and 28 days during pregnancy. Treatments were repeated for four consecutive parities. The first group served as control (C) given distilled water only, however the second, third, fourth and fifth groups were supplemented with 3 ml distilled water containing 0.2 ml SY, 200 mg DPP, 200 mg BP, 0.2 ml HB/doe per day, respectively. While, the sixth group does were given all previous ingredients (MIX). Sexual receptivity rate, fertility rate, kindling rate, and newborn traits were recorded. Also, maternal feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and digestibility coefficients of nutrients were recorded. Does in all groups were artificially inseminated with 0.5 ml of fresh heterospermic semen of 15 fertile bucks extended in Tris at 806–1006 sperm/ml. Treatment increased maternal body weight and daily gain with highest values (P < 0.05) in BP, SY, and MIX does. All treatments enhanced feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared with control. Number services per conception decreased (P < 0.01), while litter size and weight and survival at birth and weaning increased (P < 0.01) in treated than control does. Treated does produced more milk than control. Digestibility coefficients of all nutrients were improved (P < 0.01) in treated does. In conclusion, supporting rabbit does pre- and during pregnancy with diets supplemented with a mixture of honey bee, date palm pollen, bee pollen, and synbiotic improves the productive and reproductive performances of rabbit does and their offspring.

Fertility and teratogenic study of the aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in female Sprague Dawley rats

Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle) has long been gaining attention in phytotherapy research due to its medicinal properties. Despite its benefits, there is very scarce information available on the reproductive toxicity of this plant. The aqueous extract of H. sabdariffa (AEHS) was tested in the present study to investigate its potential effects on fertility and teratogenicity in 40 female Sprague Dawley rats. AESH treatment was administered orally by gavage at four different dosages: 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day or distilled water (control). Treatment began from pre-mating and continued through mating up to the 19th day of pregnancy periods. Throughout this study, the reproductive parameters were evaluated until the day of sacrifice (day 20th of pregnancy). Results obtained revealed no significant differences in general physical health, behaviours and maternal body weights throughout the treatment period. Furthermore, the mean length of the oestrous cycle was not statistically affected, even though a few rats displayed irregular cycles. In addition, there was no statistical significance in the mating and pregnancy indices, number of corpora lutea and implantation sites, percentages of pre-implantation loss and postimplantation death and reproductive organ weights. Foetal parameters such as the number of live foetuses, sex ratio and body weight were also not statistically affected by AESH. Ultimately, there were no signs of teratogenicity observed since none of the foetuses exhibited congenital malformations. In conclusion, these findings imply that the oral administration of AEHS up to 1000 mg/kg/day did not pose any significant toxicity on the fertility and teratogenicity but slightly affected the oestrous cycle in rats.

Maternal ingestion of cannabidiol (CBD) in mice leads to sex-dependent changes in memory, anxiety, and metabolism in the adult offspring, and causes a decrease in survival to weaning age

RationaleThe consequences of perinatal cannabidiol (CBD) exposure are severely understudied, but are important, given its widespread use and believed safety as a natural supplement. ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to test the health, metabolic, and behavioral consequences of perinatal CBD exposure on dams and their offspring raised to adult. MethodsPrimiparous female C57BL/6 J mice were orally administered 100 mg/kg CBD in strawberry jam to expose offspring during gestation, lactation, or both using a cross-fostering design. Adult offspring were metabolically profiled using indirect calorimetry and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance testing. Adults were behaviorally phenotyped, video recorded, and mouse position tracked using DeepLabCut. ResultsCBD was detected in maternal plasma using LC-MS 10-min post consumption (34.2 ± 1.7 ng/ul) and peaked within 30 min (371.0 ± 34.0 ng/ul). Fetal exposure to CBD significantly decreased survival of the pups, and decreased male postnatal development, but did not alter litter size, maternal body weight or pup birth weight. We observed many sex-dependent effects of perinatal CBD exposure. Exposure to CBD during gestation and lactation increased meal size, caloric intake, and respiratory exchange ratio for adult male offspring, while exposure during lactation decreased fasting glucose, but had no effect on clearance. Adult female offspring exposed to CBD during lactation showed increased drink size. Perinatal CBD exposure increased obsessive compulsive- and decreased anxiety-like behaviors (marble burying, light-dark box, elevated-plus maze) in female mice, decreased long-term object memory in male mice, and had no effect on attention tasks for either sex. ConclusionsWe conclude that orally-administered CBD during pregnancy affects behavior and metabolism in a sex-dependent manner, and mice are differentially sensitive to exposure during gestation vs. lactation, or both. Because long-term changes are observed following perinatal exposure to the drug, and exposure significantly decreases survival to weaning, more research during development is warranted.

Impact of xylene exposure during organogenesis on foeto-placental efficiency and foetal viability: Exploring its association with oxidative stress-induced inflammation and apoptosis in utero.

The potential maternal and foetal toxicity resulting from exposure to xylene at or below the allowable limit of 100 ppm during gestation is not thoroughly studied. The aim of this study was to investigate maternal and foetal outcomes following prenatal exposure to xylene during organogenesis. Pregnant Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were administered intraperitoneal (IP) corn oil (vehicle), 100, 500, and 1000 parts per million (ppm) of xylene from gestational day (GD) 6 until GD17. Clinical signs, maternal weight gain, and food consumption were recorded daily. A caesarean hysterectomy was performed on GD21 to assess the reproductive and foetal outcomes. Exposure to 1000 ppm of xylene caused a significant decrease in the maternal body weight and food consumption, and an increase in intrauterine foetal deaths. Foetal assessment revealed a significant decrease in foetal weight in both male and female foetuses of female rats treated with 500 and 1000 ppm. Male placental weight was significantly decreased in all xylene-treated groups, while 1000 ppm xylene significantly decreased female placental weight. Histologically, marked uterine inflammatory lesions, fibrosis of the liver and renal tissues, as well as increased placental glycogen content were observed. Immunohistochemistry revealed a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and apoptotic markers. Thus, the foeto-maternal toxicities of xylene have been shown to be mediated by a systemic inflammatory response that exacerbates intrauterine oxidative stress and impairs foeto-placental transfer, leading to an increase in foetal mortality.

Study on the mechanism of Shenling Baizhu powder on the pathogenesis of pregnancy complicated with non-alcoholic fatty liver, based on PI3K/AKT/mTOR signal pathway.

This study investigates the effectiveness of Shenlin Baizhu powder in managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) during pregnancy and its mechanism through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Eight healthy male and 24 female Sprague-Dawley rats were used. After acclimatization, 6 female rats were fed normal chow, and 18 female rats were fed high-fat chow to induce NAFLD. After 8 weeks, female rats were mated with males to create a pregnant NAFLD model. The rats were divided into four groups: normal feeding, high-fat diet with saline, high-fat diet with 1.6 g/kg Shenlin Baizhu powder, and high-fat diet with 4.8 g/kg Shenlin Baizhu powder. Maternal body weight, serum and liver levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), related inflammatory indexes interleukin-1 β (IL-1 β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. Liver tissue was examined using hematoxylin and oil red O staining, and protein expression related to the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was assessed via Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. Results showed significant weight gain and increases in ALT, AST, TG, TC, LDL-C, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, along with decreased HDL-C in NAFLD rats compared to controls. The high and low-dose Shenlin Baizhu powder groups exhibited improvements in body weight, liver histopathology, and reductions in serum TG, TC, LDL-C, ALT, AST, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, with increased HDL-C levels. Notably, the high-dose group showed greater efficacy in reducing hepatic fat accumulation, liver function markers, blood lipids, and inflammatory indexes, and decreased expression of hepatic PPARγ mRNA, SREBP1 mRNA, AKT mRNA, and related proteins. Shenlin Baizhu powder demonstrates potential in ameliorating high-fat diet-induced NAFLD in pregnant rats, likely through modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, suggesting its therapeutic potential for gestational NAFLD.

PSLBI-10 Effects of mid-gestational nutrient restriction on maternal and neonatal body weights in goats

Abstract Gestational nutrient restriction increases the risk for metabolic dysfunction in maternal and fetal health and predisposes the offspring to metabolic disease later in life. This study examined the impact of the mid-gestational nutrient restriction on dams and neonatal body weight (BW) in caprine pregnancy. Pregnant Boer goats with similar BW and age were assigned randomly and fed either a control diet (CON: 100% NRC recommendations) or an NR diet (60% of CON) from 45 to 100 d of gestation and re-alimented to control diet until term (n = 15/group). Animals were weighed every 2 wk throughout gestation, and at birth, newborn BW of kids was recorded (newborn males and females were selected based on survival and birth type). Data were analyzed by mixed procedures of SAS, presented as means ± SE, and differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05. During the nutrient restriction period, CON dams gained more (P &amp;lt; 0.001) BW than NR group (15.04 vs. 2.33 ± 2.9 % BW gain, respectively). There was a tendency (P = 0.07) for the group by sex effect on offspring neonatal BW. Male offspring from NR group tended to have lighter BW (3.79 ± 0.22 vs. 4.35 ± 0.22 kg, respectively) than controls. However, female offspring did not differ significantly (3.38 ± 0.21 vs. 3.16 ± 0.18 kg, respectively) from controls. These data show that changes in the mother’s body weight due to nutrient restriction at mid-gestation may have a sex-specific impact on goat neonatal weights.

PSVII-13 Influence of early maternal gestational body weight gain on liver gene expression across generations in offspring

Abstract Maternal nutrition in the periconceptional period influences gene regulation in the fetal liver across generations, affecting long-term metabolism. This study aimed to examine the effects of the rate of body weight (BW) gain of the dam (F0) during early gestation on the differential gene expression of the liver of first (F1) and second-generation (F2) offspring. Crossbred Angus heifers (F0) were assigned into two groups based on their targeted rate of BW gain during the first 84 d of gestation: low gain (LG; 0.28 kg/d; n = 8) or moderate gain (MG; 0.79 kg/d; n = 8). Following this period, all heifers (F0) were kept on a forage-based diet until the F1 offspring were weaned at 8 mo. The F1 heifers underwent estrus synchronization and were artificially inseminated at 15 mo of age. Liver samples were obtained from the F1 heifers at birth and later when harvested at 84 d of gestation, along with liver samples from their F2 fetuses, for a comprehensive multigenerational RNA-Seq analysis. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the DESeq2 R-package, focusing on significant genes determined by a P-value ≤ 0.05 and a log2 fold change |0.5|. Metabolic pathways and biological processes were analyzed using the WebGestalt tool to understand the implications of the observed gene expression changes. At birth, F1 heifers from MG dams exhibited 281 DEGs, comprising 152 downregulated and 129 upregulated genes compared with the offspring of LG dams. These genes were over-represented in lipid metabolism, cellular homeostasis, and signaling pathways, such as MAPK and chemokine signaling. At harvest, 159 DEGs were identified in F1 heifers, with 67 genes downregulated and 92 genes upregulated in the MG group. These genes were related to cellular morphogenesis and biogenesis processes, with a notable downregulation of metabolic pathways. For the F2 fetuses, 192 DEGs were identified, where 71 genes were downregulated, and 121 genes were upregulated. These genes were involved in biological functions such as peptide secretion to cell proliferation and signaling pathways, including PI3K-Akt and Hippo signaling. The analysis of DEGs shared between F1 heifers and F2 fetuses highlighted the influence of the moderate BW weight gain of the F0 dams. At birth and harvest, F1 heifers shared three genes (NAV2, FAM131C, SH3D21). F1 heifers at birth and F2 fetuses shared five genes (CD3E, H1-12, SLC7A11, PIP4P2, ENSBTAG00000051730). From the harvest at d 84 in F1 heifers and F2 fetuses, five genes were shared (DCDC2, RIN1, ENSBTAG00000008911, ENSBTAG00000040518, ENSBTAG00000048049). No DEGs were shared across all comparisons. These findings emphasize the multigenerational impact of early gestational BW gain of the dam on liver gene expression, influencing metabolic pathways and signaling across generations.

Evaluation of levamlodipine benzenesulfonate compound I for embryo-fetal developmental toxicity in SD rats and genotoxicity

In the present study, the effects of levamlodipine benzenesulfonate on the development of fertile Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, their embryos, and littermates were assessed using an embryo-fetal developmental toxicity test. Maternal body weight reduction was observed at a dose of 20 mg/kg, but it recovered after treatment cessation. The 20 mg/kg dose group showed a skewed sex ratio in fetal rats, with a higher proportion of males. While some effects on fetal sternum development were observed at 20 mg/kg, no skeletal malformations were observed. No significant gross morphological abnormalities were detected in the dams (mothers), no significant embryotoxicity or foetotoxicity in fetal rats and no significant effects on fetal length and weight development at doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg. Genotoxicity was evaluated using a combination of the Ames test, the Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell chromosome aberration assay, and the ICR mouse bone marrow micronucleus test. The Ames test results indicated substantial bacteriostatic effects at doses of 500 and 5000 mg/dish, with no mutagenicity observed at doses of 0.5, 5, and 50 mg/dish. No significant effect on the aberration rate of CHO cell chromosomes was found at doses of 2.8, 5.6, and 11.2 mg/mL. In the ICR mouse micronucleus test, no micronucleus-inducing effect was observed at doses of 3.125, 6.25, and 12.5 mg/kg in each treatment group. In conclusion, under the conditions of this experiment, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for developmental toxicity of levamlodipine benzenesulfonate in fertile SD rats, their embryos, and littermates was established to be 10 mg/kg/day. Levamlodipine benzenesulfonate did not exhibit significant genotoxicity.

Kidney outcomes are altered by preconception weight modulation in rodent mothers with obesity

Obesity increases the risk of chronic kidney disease. We have previously demonstrated the benefits of preconception maternal weight loss on fertility and pregnancy outcomes in a mouse model of maternal obesity. Here, we elucidate if preconception weight loss, either by diet modification or the glucose-like peptide 1 agonist liraglutide, used in the treatment of diabetes and obesity, improves maternal kidney outcomes in late gestation. C57BL/6 female mice were fed either a high-fat-diet (HFD) or a chow (control) diet for 8 weeks. To induce pre-pregnancy weight loss, HFD-fed dams were switched to chow diet (HFD-C) or administered liraglutide (0.3 mg/kg subcutaneous) whilst continuing on HFD (HFD-L). Liraglutide was discontinued one week prior to mating. HFD-V mice continued on HFD, with saline injections. A group of HFD-fed dams were ‘diet switched’ to chow after conception (post-conception, HFD-PC). Maternal body weight and glucose tolerance were measured: (1) preconception and (2) during late gestation followed by blood, urine and kidney collection. Serum creatinine, urinary creatinine and albumin, kidney tissue gene expression and protein were measured. In the preconception period, HFD-L and HFD-C mothers have lower urine albumin:creatinine ratios (UACR) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) protein expression (P < 0.005 vs. HFD-V). At late gestation, kidneys of HFD-V and HFD-PC dams have increased gene expression of insulin receptor and FAS (P < 0.05) and higher UACR compared to controls (P < 0.01). In the HFD-PC group, kidneys show increased mRNA and protein expression of metabolic and oxidative stress markers (FAS, 8-OHdG vs. control, P < 0.05, P < 0.0001 respectively). The preconception intervention groups with liraglutide, or diet change show reduced oxidative stress (protein expression of 8-OHdG, P < 0.05 vs. HFD), mRNA and protein expression of FAS (P < 0.05 vs. HFD), protein expression of fibrosis markers (collagen IV, fibronectin vs. HFD, P < 0.05), and UACR (P < 0.05 vs. HFD). This study suggests that preconception weight loss benefits maternal kidney health during pregnancy, superior to diet intervention once already pregnant.

Pharmacokinetics of piperaquine and its association with intermittent malaria preventive therapy outcomes during pregnancy

BackgroundDihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DHP) recently showed superior effectiveness over sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine for malaria intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp). We investigated day 7 piperaquine pharmacokinetics and its therapeutic efficacy in preventing malaria during pregnancy.MethodsMalaria-free (mRDT) pregnant women (n = 400) who received monthly IPTp-DHP were enrolled and followed till delivery. Day 7 Plasma piperaquine concentrations were determined after each IPTp dose using UPLC/MS/MS. IPTp outcomes (symptomatic malaria and parasitemia during pregnancy, placental malaria, and maternal malaria at delivery) were monitored. Linear mixed model and Cox regression were used to assess predictors of day 7 piperaquine concentration and treatment outcome, respectively.ResultsThe incidences of symptomatic malaria and parasitemia during pregnancy per 100 person-year at risk were 2 and 33, respectively. The prevalence of histopathologically confirmed placental malaria and maternal malaria at delivery were 3% and 9.8%, respectively. Repeated monthly IPTp-DHP resulted in significantly increased day 7 plasma piperaquine concentration (p < 0.001). Following the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd monthly IPTp-DHP doses, the proportions of women with day 7 piperaquine concentration below the therapeutic threshold (< 30 ng/mL) were 6.1%, 4.1% and 3.6%, respectively. Factors such as maternal age, body weight and trimester were not significant predictors of day 7 piperaquine concentration. However, having a low day 7 piperaquine plasma concentration (< 30 ng/mL) was significantly associated with a higher risk of parasitemia during pregnancy (p = 0.004).ConclusionLower day 7 piperaquine plasma concentration is a risk factor for parasitemia during pregnancy. Single plasma sampling at day 7 can be used to monitor piperaquine effectiveness during IPTp-DHP.Trial registrationRegistered 09/12/2016, PACTR201612001901313.

Hypocaloric diet in perinatal life followed by obesity exacerbates metabolic disorders in the offspring of wistar rats

The effects of an obesogenic post-weaning diet on the growth and metabolic parameters of adult offspring submitted to a hypocaloric diet in perinatal life were evaluated. Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups according to maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation: Control (C, received normocaloric diet) and hypocaloric diet during pregnancy and lactation (H, received hypocaloric diet). At weaning, half the number of animals in each group was divided into two more groups according to the post-weaning diet: control (CC, n=12), control and subject to the obesogenic diet (CO n=11), hypocaloric diet and control (HC, n=14) and hypocaloric and obesogenic diet (HO, n=9). Maternal body weight, food intake, and energy intake were recorded daily. In the offspring, birth weight, growth rate, and physical characteristics were evaluated. At 120 days, relative food consumption, glucose tolerance test (GTT), biochemical profile, and organ weight were analyzed. Mothers on a low-calorie diet showed no difference in body weight during pregnancy or lactation even with lower energy intake. In offspring, litters from mothers fed a low-calorie diet showed a deficit in physical characteristics (growth restriction and low weight). The effect of an obesogenic diet on visceral fat weight, GTT, and hypercholesterolemia was most pronounced in animals subjected to a perinatal hypocaloric diet followed by a lifelong obesogenic diet. Conclusion: Our observations expand the evidence that social environments with food scarcity and/or obesogenic environments determine greater susceptibility to obesity.

Reproductive and fetal toxicity studies of histamine H3 receptor antagonist DL76 used in mice to prevent maximal electroshock-induced seizure.

Introduction: Brain histamine is considered an endogenous anticonvulsant and histamine H1 receptor. H1R antagonists have, in earlier studies, been found to induce convulsions. Moreover, research during the last twodecades has provided more information concerning the anticonvulsant activities of histamine H3R (H3R) antagonists investigated in a variety of animal epilepsy models. Methods: Therefore, the in vivo anticonvulsant effect of the H3R antagonist DL76, with proven high in vitro affinity, in vitro selectivity profile, and high in vivo antagonist potency in mice against maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizures in mice, was assessed. Valproic acid (VPA) was used as a reference antiepileptic drug (AED). In addition, DL76 was tested for its reproductive and fetal toxicity in the same animal species. Results and discussion: Our observations showed that acute systemic administration (intraperitoneal; i.p.) of DL76 (7.5mg/kg, 15mg/kg, 30mg/kg, and 60mg/kg, i.p.) provided significant and dose-dependent protection against MES-induced seizures in female and male mice. Moreover, the DL76-provided protective effects were comparable to those offered by the VPA and were reversed when animals were co-administered the CNS-penetrant selective H3R agonist R-(α)-methylhistamine (RAM, 10mg/kg, i.p.). Furthermore, the administration of single (7.5mg/kg, 15mg/kg, 30mg/kg, or 60mg/kg, i.p.) or multiple doses (3 × 15mg/kg, i.p.) of H3R antagonist DL76 on gestation days (GD) 8 or 13 failed to affect the maternal body weight of mice when compared with the control mice group. No significant alterations were detected in the average number of implantations and resorptions between the control and DL76-treated groups at the early stages of gestation and the organogenesis period. In addition, no significant differences in the occurrence of skeletal abnormalities, urogenital abnormalities, exencephaly, exomphalos, facial clefts, and caudal malformations were observed. The only significant abnormalities witnessed in the treated groups of mice were in the length of long bones and body length. In conclusion, the novel H3R antagonist DL76 protected test animals against MES-induced seizures and had a low incidence of reproductive and fetal malformation with decreased long bone lengths in vivo, signifying the potential therapeutic value of H3R antagonist DL76 for future preclinical as well as clinical development for use in the management of epilepsy.

Perinatal Outcomes of Diet Therapy in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Diagnosed before 24 Gestational Weeks.

To evaluate perinatal outcomes and risk factors for large for gestational age (LGA; birth weight over 90 percentile) in gestational diabetes diagnosed before 24 gestational weeks and treated with diet therapy alone until delivery (Diet Early gestational diabetes mellitus (Diet Early GDM)), we assessed the maternal characteristics and perinatal outcomes of patients with early GDM (n = 309) and normal glucose tolerance (NGT; n = 309) at Keio University Hospital. The gestational weight gain (GWG) expected at 40 weeks was significantly lower in the Diet Early GDM group than in the NGT group. The Diet Early GDM group exhibited a significantly lower incidence of low birth weight (<2500 g) and higher Apgar score at 5 min than the NGT group. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the pre-pregnancy body mass index and GWG expected at 40 weeks were significantly associated with LGA for Diet Early GDM. No differences were observed in random plasma glucose levels in the first trimester, 75 g oral glucose tolerance test values, and initial increase or subsequent decrease between the two groups. Dietary early GDM did not exhibit a worse prognosis than NGT. To prevent LGA, it might be important to control maternal body weight not only during pregnancy but also before conception.

Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Induce Maternal Preeclampsia-like Syndrome and Adverse Birth Outcomes via Disrupting Placental Function in SD Rats.

The escalating utilization of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) in everyday products has sparked concerns regarding their potential hazards to pregnant females and their offspring. To address these concerns and shed light on their undetermined adverse effects and mechanisms, we established a pregnant rat model to investigate the impacts of TiO2 NPs on both maternal and offspring health and to explore the underlying mechanisms of those impacts. Pregnant rats were orally administered TiO2 NPs at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight per day from GD5 to GD18 during pregnancy. Maternal body weight, organ weight, and birth outcomes were monitored and recorded. Maternal pathological changes were examined by HE staining and TEM observation. Maternal blood pressure was assessed using a non-invasive blood analyzer, and the urinary protein level was determined using spot urine samples. Our findings revealed that TiO2 NPs triggered various pathological alterations in maternal liver, kidney, and spleen, and induced maternal preeclampsia-like syndrome, as well as leading to growth restriction in the offspring. Further examination unveiled that TiO2 NPs hindered trophoblastic cell invasion into the endometrium via the promotion of autophagy. Consistent hypertension and proteinuria resulted from the destroyed the kidney GBM. In total, an exposure to TiO2 NPs during pregnancy might increase the risk of human preeclampsia through increased maternal arterial pressure and urinary albumin levels, as well as causing fetal growth restriction in the offspring.

Food Consumption and Sleep Disturbances in 9-year-old Children

Abstract Objective To assess the association of food consumption with sleep disturbances in 9-year-old children. Material and Methods The present study is part of a larger cohort study named Predictors of Maternal and Infant Excess Body Weight (PREDI) that was conducted in the homes of the participants during the fourth study follow-up. Anthropometric assessment and demographic, socioeconomic, food consumption, and sleep data were obtained. The children's food consumption was evaluated using the Brazilian Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (SISVAN, in the Portuguese acronym). Sleep habits were assessed using the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children to evaluate sleep pattern-related behaviors in children/adolescents aged 3 to 18 years. Data were self-reported by the mother and her child on the day of the visit. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the association of food consumption with sleep disturbances in children at 9 years of age. Results Of the 142 children who participated in the study, 45.1% had sleep disturbances; most of them were boys (53.6%). The proportion of children with sleep disturbances was higher (55.6%) among children who did not consume fruits compared with those who ate fruits (p = 0.008). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the lack of fruit consumption was associated with sleep disturbances (OR = 2.26, p = 0.023), even after adjustment for other predictors. Conclusion We showed that the lack of fruit consumption is a predictor of sleep disturbances. Since fruit consumption had a protective effect on sleep disturbances at 9 years of age, encouraging the consumption of fiber-rich foods may contribute to preventing the establishment of sleep problems even in infants.

Prenatal exposure to ethion caused maternal and foetal toxicity in rats

Ethion is a class II moderately toxic organothiophosphate pesticide. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the maternal and foetal toxicity of ethion in rats. Pregnant rats were divided into 5 groups. Group I served as control. Group II, III, IV, and V were orally administered with 0.86, 1.71, 3.43, and 6.9 mg/kg of ethion respectively, from gestational day (GD) 6–19. Dams were sacrificed on GD 20. Maternal toxicity was assessed by body weight gain, foetal resorptions, oxidative stress, liver and kidney function tests, and histopathology. Foetal toxicity was assessed by physical status, gross, teratological and histopathological examination. Ethion caused dose-dependent reduction in maternal body weight gain, increased resorptions, and reduced gravid uterine weights. Elevated MDA levels and altered levels of GSH, SOD and catalase were recorded in pregnant dam serum and tissues. SGOT, SGPT, total bilirubin, urea, uric acid, and creatinine were elevated in ethion groups indicating liver and kidney toxicity. Histology of uterus revealed myometrial degeneration and mucosal gland atrophy in uterus of pregnant dams and degenerative changes in placenta. It showed histological alterations in liver, kidney, and lungs. There was reduction in the foetal body weights and placental weights, and degenerative changes in the foetal liver and kidney. Gross evaluation of foetuses showed subcutaneous hematoma. Skeletal evaluation showed partial ossification of skull bones, costal separation, and agenesis of tail vertebrae, sternebrae, metacarpals and metatarsals. The findings reveal that prenatal exposure to ethion caused maternal and foetal toxicity in rats.

10 Effects of different feeding levels during gestation on gilt reproductive performance during the first lactation

Abstract Our objective was to determine the effects of different feeding levels for gilts during gestation on reproductive performance during the first lactation. A total of 1,187 PIC Camborough gilts were used. Gilts were randomly allotted in a randomized complete block design based on breeding week, body weight (BW), and age to one of four treatments differing in daily metabolizable energy (ME) intakes per day during gestation. Gilts were housed in stalls throughout the entire gestation and individually fed with a gestation diet containing 2.95 Mcal of ME/kg via feed boxes that were weekly calibrated. Treatments consisted of 1) 5.0 Mcal of ME/d (1.7 kg feed/d) throughout the entire gestation; 2) 5.9 Mcal of ME/d (2.0 kg feed/d) throughout the entire gestation; 3) 6.8 Mcal of ME/d (2.3 kg feed/d) throughout the entire gestation; and 4) 5.0 Mcal of ME/d (1.7 kg feed/d) from breeding until d 90 of gestation, and then 5.9 Mcal of ME/d (2.0 kg feed/d) from d 90 to d 112 of gestation. Gilt was the experimental unit and data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models with the lmer and glmer functions of R. There was no evidence (P &amp;gt; 0.10) for treatment differences on gilt BW and age at breeding, with gilts averaging 156.7 kg at 210 d of age (Table 1). Gilts receiving 6.8 Mcal of ME/d during gestation were heavier (P &amp;lt; 0.05) at farrowing compared with all other treatments; however, these gilts lost (P &amp;lt; 0.05) more BW during lactation. Gilts receiving 5.0 Mcal ME/d throughout the entire gestation had less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) maternal net BW gain from breeding to weaning compared with gilts receiving 6.8 Mcal ME/d. Gilts receiving 6.8 Mcal of ME/d gained more (P &amp;lt; 0.05) caliper scores (CS) from breeding to d 90 of gestation compared with gilts receiving 5.0 Mcal ME/d. Regardless of feeding level, gilts lost an average of 0.85 CS from d 90 to d 112 of gestation. Overall, gilts receiving 6.8 Mcal of ME/d gained more CS during gestation, but lost more CS during lactation (P &amp;lt; 0.05). There was no evidence for differences in gilt backfat depth measurements (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Gilt feeding levels did not impact (P &amp;gt; 0.10) total piglets born, percentage sillborn, or percentage of mummified fetuses. Gilts receiving 5.0 Mcal of ME/d had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) percentage piglets born alive compared with gilts receiving 5.9 Mcal of ME/d, with other treatments intermediate. There was no evidence (P &amp;gt; 0.10) for treatment differences in average piglet BW, average piglet daily gain during lactation, piglet mortality from cross foster to weaning, or wean to estrus interval in the next cycle. In summary, increasing energy intake of gilts during the first gestation did not impact reproductive performance during the first lactation, but gilts receiving 5.0 Mcal of ME/d throughout the entire gestation had less maternal net BW gain.