Number Of Cotyledons Research Articles

Understanding In Vivo Mastication Behaviour and In Vitro Starch and Protein Digestibility of Pulsed Electric Field-Treated Black Beans after Cooking.

The aim of this study was to understand (i) the in vivo mastication behaviour of cooked black beans (chewing duration, texture perception, oral bolus particle size, microstructure, and salivary α-amylase) and (ii) the in vitro digestibility of starch and protein of in vivo-generated black bean oral bolus under simulated gastrointestinal condition. The beans were pre-treated using pulsed electric field (PEF) with and without calcium chloride (CaCl2) addition prior to cooking. The surface response model based on least square was used to optimise PEF processing condition in order to achieve the same texture properties of cooked legumes except for chewiness. In vivo mastication behaviour of the participants (n = 17) was characterized for the particle size of the resulting bolus, their salivary α-amylase activity, and the total chewing duration before the bolus was deemed ready for swallowing. In vitro starch and protein digestibility of the masticated bolus generated in vivo by each participant along the gastrointestinal phase were then studied. This study found two distinct groups of chewers—fast and slow chewers who masticated all black bean beans, on average, for <25 and >29 s, respectively, to achieve a bolus ready for swallowing. Longer durations of chewing resulted in boluses with small-sized particles (majorly composed of a higher number of broken-down cotyledons (2–5 mm2 particle size), fewer seed coats (5–13 mm2 particle size)), and higher activity of α-amylase. Therefore, slow chewers consistently exhibited a higher in vitro digestibility of both the starch and protein of processed black beans compared to fast chewers. Despite such distinct difference in the nutritional implication for both groups of chewers, the in vivo masticated oral bolus generated by fast chewers revealed that the processing conditions involving the PEF and addition of CaCl2 of black beans appeared to significantly (p < 0.05) enhance the in vitro digestibility of protein (by two-fold compared to untreated samples) without stimulating a considerable increase in the starch digestibility. These findings clearly demonstrated that the food structure of cooked black beans created through PEF treatment combined with masticatory action has the potential to modulate a faster hydrolysis of protein during gastrointestinal digestion, thus offering an opportunity to upgrade the quality of legume protein intake in the daily diet.

249 Effects of Maternal Nutrient Restriction During Late Gestation on Uterine Blood Flow and Placental Size in the Primiparous Bovine Dam

Abstract To determine effects of late gestational maternal nutrient restriction (NR) on uteroplacental blood flow and placental growth, primiparous fall-calving crossbred beef heifers [BW: 451 ± 28 (SD) kg; BCS: 5.4 ± 0.7] were individually-fed either 100% (control; CON; n = 12) or 70% (n = 13) of energy and protein requirements for maintenance, pregnancy, and growth during the last 120 days of gestation. Transrectal color Doppler ultrasonography of both uterine arteries was conducted pre-treatment and every 21 d during treatments. Placentas were split into ipsilateral and contralateral sides, dissected (cotyledonary vs. intercotyledonary), and dried. Data were analyzed with treatment, treatment initiation date, and calf sex (when P &amp;lt; 0.25) as fixed effects. Uterine blood flow included day and treatment x day (repeated measures). Dam BW was less (P ≤ 0.01) from d 223 of gestation through parturition for NR dams, but calf BW was not affected (P = 0.72) by treatment. The interaction affected (P &amp;lt; 0.01) heart rate, where NR dams had decreased heart rate after treatments began. Treatment did not affect (P ≥ 0.20) uterine artery blood flow or hemodynamics, but all variables were affected (P ≤ 0.04) by day. Contralateral total and cotyledonary weights tended (P ≤ 0.09) to be greater and ipsilateral and total cotyledonary:intercotyledonary ratios were greater (P ≤ 0.01) for CON. Cotyledon number, cotyledon size, and total cotyledonary, intercotyledonary, and placental weight were not affected (P ≥ 0.15) by treatment. Relative to dam BW, uterine blood flow was not affected (P = 0.83), but relative placental weight tended to be greater (P = 0.09) in NR dams. In the current study, NR dams lost maternal BW during late gestation and had less contralateral placental growth, yet uterine blood flow was maintained and placental size relative to BW ensured fetal growth similar to CON offspring.

PLACENTAL DIAMETER AND THICKNESS AND NUMBER OF COTYLEDONS IN MILD AND SEVERE PREGNANCY INDUCED HYPERTENSIVE WOMEN VERSUS NORMOTENSIVE WOMEN OF DISTRICT D.I.KHAN, PAKISTAN

Background: Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) adversely affects the development of placenta and growth of fetus. The objectives of this study were to compare the placental diameter, placental thickness and number of cotyledons in mild PIH and severe PIH women versus normotensive women of District D.I.Khan, Pakistan.Material Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Anatomy, Gomal Medical College, D.I.Khan, Pakistan from January to October 2014. Three samples were selected; each of size 50, group 1 normotensive/ control, group 2 with mild PIH and group 3 with severe PIH. Three research variables; placental diameter (cm), thickness (mm) and number of cotyledons were measured on ratio scale for three groups. Descriptive analysis included mean± SD with 95% confidence intervals for each group separately. With three groups on ratio data, one way-ANOVA test was applied to see significance of difference between three groups. Post hoc Dunnett’s t test was applied at alpha 0.05 to see difference of mild PIH group 2 to normotensive/ control group 1 and of severe PIH group 3 to normotensive/ control group 1separately.Results: Mean placental diameter was 18.28±2.15, 16.57±1.94 and 16.18±1.75 cm and mean placental thickness was 19.33 ±3.70, 19.18±2.78 and 17.60±3.52 mm in group 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Mean number of cotyledons was 14.42±2.25, 14.08±2.30 and 13.16±2.15 in group 1, 2, and 3 respectively. Placental diameter was statistically significantly lower in group 2 (p=.00001) and 3 (p=.00001) than group 1. Placental thickness in group 2 (p=.957) was similar to group 1, while in group 3 (p=.019) it was lower than group 1. Number of cotyledons in group 2 (p=.666) was similar to group 1, while in group 3 (p=.011) it was lower than group 1.Conclusion: In mild pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH), placental diameter was lower than normotensives, while placental thickness and number of cotyledons were similar to normotensives. In severe PIH, placental diameter, placental thickness and number of cotyledons were all lower than normotensives. It is concluded that in mild PIH, the development of placenta is mildly affected, while in severe PIH, the development of placenta is severely affected.

Factors affecting placental size in beef cattle: Maternal and fetal influences

Our objectives were to determine the effects of dam body condition score (BCS), age of dam, and calf sex on placental size and the relationships between dam body weight (BW) and calf size with placental size. Expelled placentas and calf size at birth were collected from crossbred beef heifers and cows during four experiments (n = 22 to 39/experiment). Placentas deemed complete by visual inspection were dissected; dry weights were determined for cotyledonary and intercotyledonary tissues. Mixed linear models were used to individually determine main effects of peripartum BCS category [Thin (<5), Moderate (=5), or Fleshy (≥6)], age of dam category [Primiparous (2 yr), Young (3–4 yr), or Mature (≥5 yr)], and calf sex on placental measures. Correlations were determined for placental characteristics with prepartum dam BW, gestation length, and calf size. Thin BCS dams had lower (P ≤ 0.05) cotyledonary, total placental, and average cotyledon weights and greater placental efficiency (calf birth BW/placental weight) than moderate and fleshy dams. Intercotyledonary weight was lower (P < 0.01) in thin BCS dams compared with fleshy dams. Thin and moderate BCS dams had smaller (P ≤ 0.04) calf birth BW than fleshy dams. Primiparous dams had lower (P ≤ 0.05) total placental and average cotyledon weights than young and mature dams, yet calf birth BW was unaffected (P = 0.17). Male calves were heavier (P = 0.01) than females, yet there were no differences (P ≥ 0.59) in placental weights. Calf birth BW and heart girth had moderate positive correlations (P < 0.01) and shoulder to rump length and abdominal girth had weak positive correlations (P < 0.01) with all placental weights. Dam prepartum BW and calf flank girth had moderate positive correlations (P < 0.01) with total placental weights and weak positive correlations (P < 0.01) with cotyledonary and average cotyledon weights. Intercotyledonary weight had moderate positive correlations (P < 0.01) with gestation length and calf flank girth and a weak positive correlation (P < 0.01) with dam prepartum BW. Gestation length had a weak positive correlation (P = 0.02) with total placental weight. Number of cotyledons was not correlated (P ≥ 0.28) with any dam or offspring characteristics. In conclusion, these data suggest that both maternal age and BCS affected placental size. Calf size at birth and placental weight were positively correlated, but it is still unknown which controls and signals for the growth of the other.

STUDY OF MORPHOLOGY AND HISTOLOGY OF PLACENTA AND ITS CORRELATION WITH MATERNAL PARAMETERS AND BIRTH WEIGHT OF NEWBORN IN ANAEMIC MOTHERS

Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine whether maternal anaemia [Hb &lt;11gm/dl]would affect the morphology and histology of placenta and and correlate it with maternal parameters and birth weight of newborn and compare this with that of non-anaemic mothers. It was a cross-sectional comparative study carried out at the maternity ward and anatomy department of NSCB MEDICAL COLLEGE JABALPUR. Background &amp; Method: Background &amp; Method: The study was carried out on 100 placentae, mothers and their babies. The placenta was collected from Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of NSCB Medical College, Jabalpur. Out of 100 placentae 50 from anaemic and 50 from NON anaemic mothers. &#x0D; As soon as the placenta was delivered, the umblical cord was cut it was put into formal saline. It was kept in a tray, to the membranes were trimmed off cord was cut about 10 cm from the insertion. The blood clots adherent to maternal surface were picked up. Morphological parameters like placental weight, volume. diameter, thickness, no of cotyledons were measured .Any abnormality like calcification, accessory lobe, haematoma, etc were noted. histological slides were made and stained with H and stain and Masson’s Trichrome stain. Result: A Macroscopic study of the placenta revealed placental weight, placental volume, diameter, placental thickness were more than non anaemic group and number of cotyledons were less in study group. Mean placental weight in study group was 474gm and in control group was 425 (p&lt;0.05). Mean placental volume in study group &amp; control group were 393.23and352 ml respectively (p&lt;0.05). Mean number of cotyledons were 13.24and 16 in study &amp; control group significant[p&lt;0.05] and mean diameter 18.30cms and17.05cms in study and control group. Mean placental thickness 2.4cms in study and 2.1 in control group respectively. There was an accessory lobe present in one patient of anaemic group. All morphometric parameters of placenta weight, volume, diameter, thickness were increased ,no of cotyledons were reduced .Histological findings were placental tissues shows intense congestion of septal capillaries.In the present study age, parity, height, weight, built, doesn’t found to be related with morphology of placenta. Maternal blood Hb found to be +vely correlated with weight, volume, diameter, thickness and –vely correlated with no of cotyledons and birth weight of baby. Conclusion: From the study it is concluded anaemia in pregnancy affects morphology and histology of placenta and it is correlated with various maternal parameters and birth weight of baby.&#x0D; Keywords: morphology, histology, placenta, anaemia, birth weight &amp; mothers.

STUDY OF MORPHOLOGY AND HISTOLOGY OF PLACENTA IN HYPERSENSITIVE MOTHERS

Background: Hypertensive pregnancy may be responsible for vascular damage, enhanced systemic inflammation and insulin resistance in the placenta as oxygen and nutrient transfer is impaired and oxidative stress is generated affecting the placental growth and development. Placental growth pattern in hypertensive pregnancies shows a variable pattern owing to placental insufficiency. Method: The study was carried out on 80 sets placentae, mothers and their babies. The placentae were collected from Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology Department of NSCB Medical College Jabalpur. Out of 80 placentae, 40 were from normal pregnant mothers and 40 from pregnancies complicated by PIH in previously normotensive women, serial number of placentae, mother and baby were same. placentae were collected soon after the normal vaginal delivery or caesarian section along with 10 cm long stump of umbilical cord. Aims and objectives: The aim of this study was to determine whether maternal PIH would affect the morphology and histology of placenta and compare this with that of normotensive mothers. It was a cross-sectional comparative study carried out at the maternity ward and anatomy department of NSCB Medical College, Jabalpur. Result: A Macroscopic study of the placenta revealed placental weight, placental volume, diameter, placental thickness and number of cotyledons were less in study group. Mean placental weight in study group was 336gm and in control group was 425 (p&lt;0.05). Mean placental volume in study group &amp; control group were 236and352 ml respectively (p&lt;0.05). Mean number of cotyledons were 14.7and 16 in study &amp; control group respectively but not significant and mean diameter15.6 cms and17.05cms in study and control group. But in the present study placental thickness was not significant (p&lt;0.539). There was a single umbilical artery present in one patient in PIH group. All morphometric parameters of placenta weight, volume, diameter, thickness, no. of cotyledons were reduced.&#x0D; Histological findings were cytotrophoblastic cellular proliferation, syncitial knot formation, fibrin plaque formation. In 20 percent cases, villi were hypovascular. The hypovascular villi have abundance of syncitial knots, usually lack vasculosyncitial membrane and increased stromal collagen. Conclusion: PIH adversely affect both morphology and histology of placenta.&#x0D; Keywords: morphology, histology, placenta, hypersensitive &amp; mothers.

Investigation of relationships between placental characteristics and kid birth weight in goats

The aim of this study was to determine the relationships among the kid birth weight, the placental, and cotyledon traits in Saanen goats. The effect of parity, birth type, and birth weight (BIRWT), on placental and cotyledon characteristics, were analyzed by the general linear model. Significant differences for birth type occurred on cotyledon length (CL) and cotyledon depth (CDEP). The means for cotyledon width (CWID) and cotyledon depth (CDEP) were 21.52 and 0.361 mm, respectively. The general means of total cotyledon surface area (TCSA), cotyledon number (CN), and cotyledon weight (CWE) were 67.27 cm$^{2}$, 66.76 unit, and 153.51 g, respectively. There was negative correlation among placental weight (PW) and each of the cotyledon density (CD) (r = -0.321, p < 0.01), placental activity (PA), and cotyledon activity (CA) (r = -0.630, p < 0.01). The relationship among total cotyledon number (TCN), cotyledon weight (CWE), and total cotyledon surface area (TCSA) were significantly and negatively correlated (p < 0.01). It has been found that there was a significant and negative relationship between cotyledon density (CD) and cotyledon width (CWID). There was a positive relationship between cotyledon length (CL) and cotyledon width (CWID) (p < 0.01). Finally, it may enhance to conduct of further nutrition studies examining the relationship between gestation and total cotyledon surface area (TCSA).

Study of Morphology of Placenta in Fifty Specimens

Introduction: The placenta is an important organ for keeping a pregnancy going and promoting normal foetal development. As a foetal organ, the placenta is subjected to the same stress and strain as the foetus. The growth of the foetus depends upon the location, functional capacity and integrity of the placental attachment. Aim: To study the morphology of the placenta in fifty placental specimens. Methods: The study was conducted in the Institute of Anatomy, Madurai Medical College, in collaboration with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. A total of fifty placental specimens were collected and analyzed for shape, diameter, thickness, placenta weight, maternal and fetal cotyledons, and attachment of cord, vascular pattern, fetoplacental ratio and placental co-efficient. Results: In fifty placentae, 60% circular in shape; 38% oval in shape; 2% triangular in shape. The mean diameter is 17.7 cm. The diameter is increased in anaemia and decreased in prematurity. The average thickness is 1.993 cm. The thickness is increased in Diabetes mellitus and decreased in anaemia. The average number of maternal cotyledons is 17; increased in Diatebes mellitus and decreased in prematurity. The average number of fetal cotyledons is 59 and increased in Diabetes mellitus. The feto-maternal cotyledon ratio is 3.5:1. It is increased in prematurity and decreased in Diabetes mellitus. The average weight of the placenta is 471 grams. The placental weight is increased in Diabetes mellitus and decreased in prematurity. The fetoplacental weight ratio is 5.805 and is decreased in prematurity. The placental coefficient is 0.18 and is increased in prematurity. Conclusion: The examination of the placenta yields valuable information regarding the intra-uterine events and fetal outcomes. KEYWORDS: Placenta, Macroscopic Morphology, Pregnancy.

35 Effect of Late Gestational Heat Stress on Placental Characteristics in Dairy Cattle

Abstract To determine the effects of late gestation heat stress on placental development, dairy cows were exposed to heat stress (HT, shade) or cooled (CL, shade, fans and soakers) during the final 46 d pre-calving on the University of Florida dairy facility (temperature-humidity index; THI &amp;gt;68). We hypothesize heat stress (or lack of heat abatement) will reduce placental efficiency and in turn increase placental weight, surface area, and volume. At expulsion all placentae were collected and total placental weight was determined as well as individual cotyledonary weights, surface areas, and volume. In addition, the total number of total cotyledons was recorded and cotyledonary color and placental growth abnormalities (i.e. teratomas) were recorded and photographed. All data were analyzed using PROC MIXED in SAS. In addition, associations between parameters were determined by calculating Pearson Correlation Coefficients using SAS. Placentae from HT cows had a higher total placental weight, higher non-vascular membrane weight, higher total cotyledonary weight, higher total cotyledonary volume, and a higher incidence of teratomas than those from CL cows (P &amp;lt; 0.05). HT cows also had placentae with a significantly greater average cotyledonary weight and volume (P &amp;lt; 0.05). HT cows tended to have a greater incidence of color abnormalities in the placenta (P &amp;lt; 0.075). In addition, HT cows had significantly lighter calves at birth (P &amp;lt; 0.05). These data demonstrate that heat stress (or lack of heat abatement) impacts placental growth during the final stages of gestation, resulting in heavier placentae, an increase in cotyledonary weight and volume, but not an increase in the total number of cotyledons or total cotyledonary surface area. These placental alterations ultimately resulted in lighter calves at birth.

To correlate placental findings with maternal morbidities in all preterm and full term pregnancies

Background & Methods : This is a forthcoming kind of study and establishes the clinicopathological relationship of strange placental discoveries with pregnancy related maternal morbidities and related fetal result altogether preterm and full term pregnancies. Placentae from 80 conveyances of preterm and full term incubation were gathered from work room. Result: The majority of cases (51.30%) in our study displayed low birth weight. Amongst the LBW neonates 35.50% of babies are associated with preterm deliveries and 14.47% were associated with full term pregnancy. Amongst the neonates with normal birth weight, 3.94% were associated with preterm labour and 46.05% were full term. There was no significant association between length of cord and period of gestation. The majority of cases showed eccentric attachment of cord with only 2.50% of preterm cases showing battledore insertion. Study Designed: Observational Study. Conclusion: The gross features of placenta varies significantly with period of gestation. Parameters such as weight, size, number of cotyledons and thickness of placenta decreases in preterm labour. The microscopic lesions observed in decreasing order of frequency were perivillous fibrin deposition (62.50%) followed by chorioamnionitis (26.25%), infarct (21.25%) and calcification (17.50%). Other pathological lesions includes villous oedema (12.50%) and retro placental hematoma (2.50%). All the histomorphological changes were conspicuous in preterm pregnancies. To prevent the maternal and child morbidity and mortality the community based health education, care for prevention of anaemia and personal hygiene must be promoted more vigorously in rural areas of our country. Keywords: placental, maternal, morbidities & pregnancies.

English

BACKGROUND Placenta is a multifunctional fetomaternal organ that plays an important role during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is reflected on placenta both macroscopically and microscopically as enlargement of placenta, abnormalities in villi and degenerative changes. METHODS This is a cross sectional study conducted among two groups, normal group and GDM group, to compare the gross features of GDM placentae in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Department of Anatomy, Govt. Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram. RESULTS The study was conducted on 65 normal and 65 GDM placentae. There was an increased incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus in the age group &gt; 25 years with a mean age of 26.38 ± 3.84 years. Multiparous women have been found to be more prone to gestational diabetes mellitus. Past history of abortions and intrauterine death (IUD) was more in GDM group as compared to normal group. Incidence of lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) was also more in GDM group. Weight, diameter and number of maternal cotyledons of placentae were significantly increased in GDM. The predominant shape of placenta in both groups was round, next to that was oval. Only 3 placentae showed irregular shape and that was from GDM group. Most common type of attachment of umbilical cord was eccentric in both groups. Next to that was central and marginal respectively. Only one placenta was furcate and that belonged to GDM group. Fetal membrane was translucent in all normal and GDM placentae. Mean birth weight of the baby of GDM mothers was significantly increased. Mean fetoplacental weight ratio was significantly decreased in GDM group as compared to normal group. CONCLUSIONS In the present study, GDM placentae showed significant changes in gross features. Meticulous gross examination of a placenta prior to histologic sectioning enhances microscopic interpretation. By increasing our understanding of the placenta, it may be possible to prevent and treat placental abnormalities related to GDM, thus ensuring lifelong health of the child and the mother. Hence, the present work would provide vital information to both obstetricians and neonatologists. KEY WORDS Placenta, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Morphology of Placenta

Small-scale Fermentation of Cocoa Beans and on-Process Monitoring

Cocoa bean fermentation is a critical step in the formation of chocolate aroma precursors. Small-scale fermentation is needed to accommodate fermentation practice during low season and fruit scarcity. The study was conducted to address the minimum amount of wet cocoa beans required for a successful fermentation. In the trials, wet cocoa beans at different quantities, i.e. 1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 15, and 40 kg, were incubated in separate wooden boxes for 4 days (96 hours) and turned once after 48 hours. Temperature and pH of the pulp and beans were measured every 6 hours. Dry beans were visually inspected to determine the number of grayish and purple cotyledons indicating unfermented beans. In general, smaller scale fermentations, i.e. 1 to 15 kg, resulted in similar profiles with that of standard mini-box fermentation (40 kg) in terms of temperature, pulp pH and bean pH. The 40 kg fermentation resulted in the lowest percentage of purple beans with no grayish beans, meanwhile smaller scale fermentations showed higher number of unfermented beans. The logarithmic regression indicates that as much as 1.4 kg beans producing unfermented beans of less than 20% which meets the criteria of grade 3 based on the Indonesian National Standard for cocoa bean (SNI 2323:2008/Amd1:2010). Data analysis shows that temperature below 35°C for 42 hours was associated with higher percentage of grayish and purple beans. It is concluded that cocoa bean fermentation can be carried out at least at 5 kg scale, and temperature at 42 hours could be a parameter for process monitoring.

Mitochondrial heat-shock cognate protein 70 contributes to auxin-mediated embryo development.

In Arabidopsis thaliana, mitochondrial-localized heat-shock cognate protein 70-1 (mtHSC70-1) plays an important role in vegetativegrowth. However, whether mtHSC70-1 affects reproductive growth remains unknown. Here, we found that the mtHSC70-1 gene was expressed in the provascular cells of the embryo proper from the early heart stage onward during embryogenesis. Phenotypic analyses of mthsc70-1 mutants revealed that mtHSC70 deficiency leads to defective embryo development and that this effect is mediated by auxin. In addition to a dwarf phenotype, the mthsc70-1 mutant displayed defects in flower morphology, anther development, and embryogenesis. At early developmental stages, the mthsc70-1 embryos exhibited abnormal cell divisions in both embryo proper and suspensor cells. From heart stage onward, they displayed an abnormal shape such as with no or very small cotyledon protrusions, had aberrant number of cotyledons, or were twisted. These embryo defects were associated with reduced or ectopic expression of auxin responsive reporter DR5rev:GFP. Consistently, the expression of auxin biosynthesis and polar auxin transport genes were markedly altered in mthsc70-1. On the other hand, mitochondrial retrograde regulation (MRR) was enhanced in mthsc70-1. Treatment of wild-type plants with an inhibitor that activates mitochondrial retrograde signaling reduced the expression level of auxin biosynthesis and polar auxin transport genes and induced phenotypes similar to those of mthsc70-1. Taken together, our data reveal that loss of function of mtHSC70-1 induces MRR, which inhibits auxin biosynthesis and polar auxin transport, leading to abnormal auxin gradients and defective embryo development.

Genetic features of the offspring of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) trees differing in the abundance of fruiting

Development of artificial reforestation is based on selection and genetics. Solving issues related to stability and productivity improvement of cultivated forest-forming species is impossible without taking into account the hereditary properties of the tree offspring. Genetic features of the offspring of Scots pine trees differing in the abundance of fruiting, were studied on permanent forest seed plots (PFSP) in different regions. The study objects were PFSP-1 of pine in the Ustyuzhna district of the Vologda region and PFSP-2 of pine in the Plesetsk district of the Arkhangelsk region. Permanent forest seed plots were laid out according to the method developed by the Northern Research Institute of Forestry (NRIF) and in accordance with the industry standard OST 56-35-78. The results of multiannual research have shown that the number of trees with good hereditary properties and the share of elite trees on the PFSP laid out according to the NRIF method exceeds the number of similar trees on the PFSP laid out according to the industry standard OST 56-35-78. Pine trees, which have good selection and genetic properties in terms of the offspring growth rate, are heterogeneous in the abundance of fruiting, yield of full-grain seeds and seed productivity. All this highlights the importance of a separate assessment of trees according to these features. The selection of elite trees of Scots pine can be carried out among plus trees having good inherited abilities for the abundance of fruiting and the yield of full-grain seeds. The assessment of the hereditary properties of plus trees by the offspring growth rate was carried out using the method of early diagnosis by the number of cotyledons. It is also possible to carry out selection of elite trees on the pine PFSP created by the NRIF method. If the method of early diagnosis by the number of cotyledons and the method of selection of high-yielding individuals developed by NRIF are used, it will take one plentiful growing season to select elite trees.

Morphological study of placenta in selected normotensive and pre-eclamptic women in Bangladesh

Pre – Eclampsia is a disorder of 2nd half of pregnancy, which is characterized by a combination of hypertension, proteinuria and edema, secondary to decreased placental perfusion. Clinical studies suggest that there are morphological changes in the placenta of pre-eclamptic women, compared to normotensive pregnant women. In developing countries, pre-eclampsia causes an estimated 50,000 maternal deaths per year. Only a small number of studies have however, been conducted in Bangladesh.&#x0D; Objective: To compare the morphology of placenta in selected pre-eclamptic and normotensive pregnant women.&#x0D; Methods: 220 pregnant women were selected with inclusion and exclusion criteria from 3 different medical colleges and divided into 2 groups – A study group, consisting of 110 pre-eclamptic women and a control group consisting of 110 normotensive pregnant women. Dietary information was collected by 7 days food frequency questionnaire and food score was determined. Anthropometric and biochemical tests were performed. To measure the weight of the placentas, the decidual part of the placentas were removed. The umbilical cords were then cut, nearest to the placenta, to drain the blood from the placental vessels, and the weight was recorded upto nearest gram with weighing machine. The diameters of placentas were measured by taking the average of two maximum diameters of placentas with measuring tape (cm).The cotyledons were counted from maternal side after removal of deciduas basalis. Number of placental infarcts were counted from fetal side.&#x0D; Results: The mean weights, diameters, number of cotyledons were found to be significantly lower in the study group, compared to the control group. The number of infarcted areas was significantly higher in the placentas of pre-eclamptic women&#x0D; Conclusion: Therefore, weight, diameter and number of cotyledons are decreased and number of infarcted areas are increased in the placenta of pre-eclamptic women, compared to normotensive pregnant women.&#x0D; J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 29, No.2, October, 2020, Page 171-177

Evaluation of Morphological (Macroscopic and Microscopic) Parameters of Placentas in Pregnancies Complicated by Preeclampsia, Diabetes and Preeclampsia and Diabetes

This study was done to compare the morphometric parameters of placentas in well controlled patients withpreeclampsia, diabetes, and preeclampsia-diabetes with that of normal uncomplicated placentas.Patients &amp;Methods: A total of Twenty four placentas were freshly collected. Six placentas for controlgroup and eighteen placentas for complicated group (preeclamptic- diabetic and preeclamptic--diabeticsubgroups). The placentas were grossly examined (shape, number of cotyledons, weight, and thickness).After suitable fixation, tissue processing and sectioning, the sections were stained by hematoxylin and eosinto study the general morphology and morphometry of the following parameters: number of terminal villi,number of syncytial knots, number of apoptotic cells and number of fetal capillaries.Result: The weight of the baby in D- subgroup was significantly increased when compared with controlgroup and with P and P-D subgroups . Microscopical morphometry regarding number of terminal villi,apoptotic cells, syncytial knots and fetal capillaries were increased in complicated subgroups. The thicknessof basement membrane was 0.8µm in control group and it was increased in all complicated subgroups. Thehighest value was reported by D- subgroup (2 µm).

Access to shade during the dry period improves the performance of multiparous Holstein cows

Context Heat stress (HS) has a negative effect on milk production and on the final period of gestation. There is almost no information of HS effect on dairy cows with temperature–humidity index (THI) less than 72 and more than 68. Aim Determine the effect of voluntary access to shade during the dry period on physiological parameters and subsequent postpartum performance of Holstein cows. Methods Twenty-six multiparous cows were used in a randomised complete-block design to evaluate two treatments: without access to shade (CON) and with voluntary access to shade (SHA) for 62 ± 5.3 days before calving. During the dry period, cows were housed in two yards. After calving, cows were managed all together. The THI was used to characterise environmental conditions. During the dry period, rectal temperature (7:00 am and 5:00 pm), respiration rate (7:00 am, 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm) and animal behaviour (feed intake, rumination and standing) were measured. Dry matter (DMI) and water intake, bodyweight, body condition score, and serum insulin and non-esterified fatty acid concentrations were measured during dry and lactation periods. At calving, calf weight, composition of colostrum, placenta weight, cotyledon number and weight were recorded. During the lactation period, production and composition of milk and resumption of ovarian activity were measured. Key results Average THI during dry and lactation periods were 70.7 ± 4.88 and 57.2 ± 6.53 respectively. During the dry period, SHA cows had a lower respiration rate at 1:00 p.m. (56 ± 0.8 vs 67 ± 0.8 breath per minute (b.p.m), P &lt; 0.0001) and at 5:00 p.m. (48 ± 0.8 vs 55 ± 0.8 b.p.m, P = 0.04), and higher DMI (12.0 ± 0.07 vs 11.4 ± 0.07 kgDM/cow.day, P &lt; 0.0001) than did CON cows. Shaded cows produced more solid-corrected milk (30.4 ± 0.31 vs 29.5 ± 0.31 kg/cow.day, P = 0.04), fat (1.48 ± 0.040 vs 1.33 ± 0.040 kg/cow.day, P = 0.01) and protein (1.12 vs 1.03 ± 0.015 kg/cow.day, P = 0.01). Conclusion There was no effect of access to shade on calf weight, colostrum composition, placenta characteristics, serum non-esterified fatty acid and insulin concentrations, body condition score evolution, lactation DMI and days to first ovulation postpartum. Implications HS during the last 60 days of gestation negatively affected solid-corrected milk, daily fat and protein production.

Gross Changes of Placenta in Pregnancy Induced Hypertension and its Clinical Relevance: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Placenta establishes connection between mother and foetus through umbilical cord. Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) is one of the most common complication of pregnancy. Gross study of placenta in PIH gives an insight into prenatal health of baby and mother, thereby preventing maternal as well as foetal morbidity and mortality. Aim: To study the gross changes of placenta in PIH cases with its clinical relevance. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was done at tertiary care hospital of Osmania and Gandhi Medical College, Telangana, India. The study was carried over for a period of six months (from October 2019 to March 2020) with a sample size of 50 placentae in PIH mothers aged between 20-35 years who were inpatients at the Obstetrics Department. They were followed until delivery. Postdelivery, the gross anatomy of the collected placentas was studied. Varied parameters of placenta, data of newborn and clinical picture of mother were compared with normal standards and statistically analysed by using Unpaired t-test. Results: Significant reduction of mean placental weight and mean foetal weight (p-value&lt;0.0001) and significant increase in foetoplacental weight ratio was found. There was an average reduction of number of cotyledons by 23% in PIH cases when compared to normal placentae. An incidence of mean infarct areas of 9.6 and mean calcified areas of 13 were found on the maternal surface of placenta in PIH. An incidence of 68% of marginal type of placenta was observed in patients with PIH. Clinically, incidence of headache, pedal oedema, convulsions, visual disturbances and proteinuria were found. Conclusion: Gross study of placenta in PIH reflects maternal and foetal status and can be taken as confirmative evidence by radiologists to prevent Intra Uterine Growth Retardation (IUGR) and guide obstetricians during management of pregnant mother with PIH. Thereby, preventing the maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality.

Placental Changes in Anemia, Gestational Diabetes and Pregnancy Induced Hypertension

Background: To assess the changes occurring in the placenta due to anemia, pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH), Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and whether these changes were reversible with treatment when they were diagnosed in early stages. Subjects and Methods: The study is conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DVVPF’s Medical College, Ahmednagar on 200 anemic patients, 180 PIH patients and 650 GDM patients. Placentae were collected, stored in a 10% formalin solution. Morphological changes in respect to shape, weight, diameter, thickness, number of cotyledons and site of insertion of the cord are observed and documented. Results: In anemic patients who has undergone treatment, there were a smaller number of irregular (37/100) and round (63/100) round placentae were seen, whereas in the untreated anemic group, round (09/100) round and irregular (91/100) irregular placentae were seen. In PIH group with treatment, round (57/90) placentae and irregular (33/90) placentae were seen, whereas, in the untreated group, 13/100 round/oval placentae were observed and 77/100 irregular placentae were seen. Conclusion: Morphology of placenta is on error mode in untreated anemia, PIH and GDM. Diagnosis in the first trimester and on consequent treatment till the delivery is resulting in decreasing of irregular morphology of placenta and wellbeing of newborns.

Study on Histomorphological Findings in Placenta in Cases of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension

Introduction: PIH is a common condition associated with changes in placenta. It leads to increased perinatal mortality. The present study was conducted to assess the morphological and histopathological changes in placenta in cases of pregnancy induced hypertension. Subjects and Methods: The present comparative study included 49 cases of PIH and 49 normotensive mothers. Clinical details and placental morphology were noted. Results: That the two groups are similar with no significant difference. Placental weight and diameter were similar in PIH and control groups (p&gt;0.05). However, placental thickness and number of cotyledons were greater in PIH group (p=0.00) while placental volume was lower with significant difference (p=0.01). PIH group showed greater proportion of infarction, calcification, hyalinised area per 10 lpf and intervillous haemorrhage (p=0.00). Conclusion: PIH leads to gross and microscopic changes in placental morphology.