|
|
| |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
real online pregnancy tests guide
Real Online Pregnancy Tests Free Interesting Information
Real Online Pregnancy Tests Free Interesting Information
Are you searching for information related to real online pregnancy tests or other info somehow related to child birth health, preganancy week by week, child birth pillow, child birth conception, cost of child birth test or negative child birth test? If yes, this article will give you helpful insights related to real online pregnancy tests and even somehow related to early child birth symptoms, child birth without pounds, increase fertility, getting pregnant, baby bedding and fetal development that you might not have been aware of.
Do You Know This Much About real online pregnancy tests
These are the parturiency tips which will help you to enjoy the best period of your life. As a result, go through this article with full attention.
One of the most essential elements of the parturiency period is the prenatal care. You have to take care that you don't miss any prenatal appointment as any problems with your parturiency can be detected in early-stage.
One of the best parturiency tips I can give you is - stopping smoking, preferably before you get pregnant but certainly once you are pregnant. Smoking is bad for the baby's health, even secondary smoke so avoid smoky environments and ask people not to smoke around you.
Alcohol is a different issue which is very dangerous for baby's health. Therefore, you stop drinking throughout your parturiency and even avoid drinking during the nursing of child.
Always check with your health care practitioner to make sure you get the amount of exercise which is right for you (in some circumstances exercise is not advisable) but as a general rule exercise is beneficial. It has been shown that exercising while you are pregnant can help reduce the time you spend in labor, aid your recovery following the birth, reduce the need for cesarean, help you return to your pre-parturiency weight quicker and improve your overall health.
Change your eating habits when you find out that you are pregnant, and you have to support your baby also. You should take food high in fiber, plenty of vegetables, proteins, calcium etc.
INTERVAL -- Did you notice so far that this article is indeed related to real online pregnancy tests? If not, go ahead and read on. You will find more information that can help you as regards real online pregnancy tests or other related ninth month of child birth, hemorrhoids during child birth, ultrasound photos of baby, child birth weight gain calendar, child birth test kit and ice ice baby.
Stop drinking tea, coffee, chocolate and soft drinks in order to limit the intake of caffeine in your daily life.
Drinking a lot of water in a single day will definitely help you in improving your health conditions during parturiency period.
Take a prenatal class.
Don't forget to
Video - childbirthWe follow several women in their last days of pregnancy, through to childbirth and their first weeks of parenthood. (Source: New on NHS Direct)Case report: delivering a full-term baby while on hemodialysis is possibleFor women with chronic kidney disease (CKD), getting pregnant is very rare, and a successful pregnancy is even more uncommon, especially for women on dialysis. In the July-August 2008 issue of Nephrology Nursing Journal, Mary Coyle and co-authors present a case report of a 35-year-old woman with Stage 5 CKD who successfully completed a 39-week pregnancy while on hemodialysis. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)Scots schools to get sexual health clinicsSIXTY thousand Scots pupils are to be given access to sexual health services in school, allowing children as young as 13 to receive condoms and pregnancy tests. (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health)Women warned of herbal remedies risk in pregnancyTHOUSANDS of pregnant women could be risking the health of their unborn babies by taking herbal remedies without knowing the risks. (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health)Women with hormone disorder may benefit from acupunctureGetting pregnant with her first child was difficult, but when Rebecca Killmeyer of Charlottesville, Va. experienced a miscarriage during her second pregnancy, she wasn't sure if she would ever have another baby. When she decided to enter a study testing the impact of acupuncture on women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) at the University of Virginia Health System, she came out with a miracle. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)The influence of reproductive status and age on women's sleepJournal of Women's Health Sep 2008, Vol. 17, No. 7: 1209-1214.
Abstract This review paper summarizes presentations from a conference update on the state of knowledge about the extent to which reproductive status and age influence women's sleep. Key issues pertaining to sleep during menstrual cycles, pregnancy and ... (Source: Journal of Women)Ra remission during pregnancy less frequent than thoughtPregnancy can lead to remission of rheumatoid arthritis, although less frequently than previously described, a prospective study has shown. (Source: MedWire News - Bone Health)Evaluation of thyrotoxicosis during pregnancy with color flow doppler sonography.Page: 177DOI: 10.1097/01.RUQ.0000335206.05584.97 (Source: Ultrasound Quarterly)Late recurrence of ewing sarcoma during pregnancy: a report of 2 cases.Page: 716DOI: 10.1097/MPH.0b013e318175895fAuthors: DuBois, Steven G. MD *; Perez-Atayde, Antonio R. MD +; McLean, Thomas W. MD ++; Grier, Holcombe E. MD [S] (Source: Journal of Pediatric Hematology Oncology)Elevated maternal il-16 levels, enhanced il-16 expressions in endothelium and leukocytes, and increased il-16 production by placental trophoblasts in women with preeclampsia. | Related Articles | |
Elevated Maternal IL-16 Levels, Enhanced IL-16 Expressions in Endothelium and Leukocytes, and Increased IL-16 Production by Placental Trophoblasts in Women with Preeclampsia.
J Immunol. 2008 Sep 15;181(6):4418-22
Authors: Gu Y, Lewis DF, Deere K, Groome LJ, Wang Y
Cytokine IL-16 plays an important role in innate immune responses. However, little information is available about IL-16 function in human pregnancy. In this study, we collected maternal blood samples from 125 pregnant women between 26 and 41 wk of gestation, 63 from normal pregnant women and 62 from women with preeclampsia (PE). Serum IL-16C levels were measured by ELISA. We also examined IL-16C and IL-16N immunostaining in maternal vessels and protein expression in leukocytes from normal and PE pregnant women. In addition, IL-16C production by placental trophoblasts was also determined. Our results showed that IL-16C levels were significantly higher in severe PE than in mild PE and normal pregnant controls, 515 +/- 58 vs 287 +/- 46 (p < 0.05) and 163 +/- 9 pg/ml (p < 0.01), respectively, indicating that increased IL-16 levels in PE is associated with the severity of the disease. There was no difference for the IL-16C levels in normal pregnant women throughout the third trimester. The correlation of maternal IL-16C levels with labor and body mass index was also analyzed. IL-16C levels were neither associated with labor nor associated with body mass index. Moreover, increased IL-16C immunostaining in maternal vessel endothelium and enhanced IL-16C protein expression in leukocytes were observed in PE. We also found that IL-16C production was increased by trophoblasts from PE placentas. Our study demonstrated up-regulation of the IL-16 profile in both the maternal and the placental systems in PE, suggesting that IL-16 could be an important cytokine engaged in the altered immune system and exaggerated inflammatory response in PE syndrome.
PMID: 18768901 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Immunology)]]>
Selected update: affective disorders: baby blues
Two studies addressing different aspects of maternal depression during pregnancy and the post-partum period show that that exposure to antidepressants in utero can have long-lasting effects on the offspring's serotonin system, and that altered sensitivity of GABA
([gamma]-aminobutyric acid) type-A receptors might predispose women to post-partum depression. (Source: Nature Signaling Update)
The regai dzive shiri project: a cluster randomised controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of a multi-component community-based hiv prevention intervention for rural youth in zimbabwe – study design and baseline results
Objective To assess the effectiveness of a community-based HIV prevention intervention for adolescents in terms of its impact on (1) HIV and Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) incidence and on rates of unintended pregnancy and (2) reported sexual behaviour, knowledge and attitudes.Methods Cluster randomised trial of a multi-component HIV prevention intervention for adolescents based in rural Zimbabwe. Thirty communities were selected and randomised in 2003 to early or deferred intervention implementation. A baseline bio-behavioural survey was conducted among 6791 secondary school pupils (86% of eligibles) prior to intervention implementation.Results Baseline prevalences were 0.8% (95% CI: 0.6[ndash]1.0) for HIV and 0.2% (95% CI: 0.1[ndash]0.3%) for HSV-2. Four girls (0.12%) were pregnant. There was excellent balance between study arms. Orphans who made up 35% of the cohort were at increased risk of HIV [age[ndash]sex adjusted odds ratio 3.4 (95% CI: 1.7[ndash]6.5)]. 11.9% of young men and 2.9% of young women reported that they were sexually active (P < 0.001); however, there were inconsistencies in the sexual behaviour data. Girls were less likely to know about reproductive health issues than boys (P < 0.001) and were less likely to have used and to be able to access condoms (P < 0.001).Conclusion This is one of the first rigorous evaluations of a community-based HIV prevention intervention for young people in southern Africa. The low rates of HIV suggest that the intervention was started before this population became sexually active. Inconsistency and under-reporting of sexual behaviour re-emphasise the importance of using externally validated measures of sexual risk reduction in behavioural intervention studies. (Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health)
An introduction to maternal mortality.
| Related Articles | |
An introduction to maternal mortality.
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):77-81
Authors: Nour NM
Approximately 529,000 women die from pregnancy-related causes annually and almost all (99%) of these maternal deaths occur in developing nations. One of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals is to reduce the maternal mortality rate by 75% by 2015. Causes of maternal mortality include postpartum hemorrhage, eclampsia, obstructed labor, and sepsis. Many developing nations lack adequate health care and family planning, and pregnant women have minimal access to skilled labor and emergency care. Basic emergency obstetric interventions, such as antibiotics, oxytocics, anticonvulsants, manual removal of placenta, and instrumented vaginal delivery, are vital to improve the chance of survival.
PMID: 18769668 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Bilateral ectopic pregnancy.
| Related Articles | |
Bilateral ectopic pregnancy.
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):48
Authors: Greenberg JA
PMID: 18769663 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Does acupuncture enhance a woman's chance for pregnancy and a live birth?
| Related Articles | |
Does Acupuncture Enhance a Woman's Chance for Pregnancy and a Live Birth?
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):89
Authors: Kent A
PMID: 18769662 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Management of early pregnancy failure.
| Related Articles |
Management of early pregnancy failure.
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):90-1
Authors: Kent A
PMID: 18769660 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Lipidomics in diagnosis of lipidoses.
| Related Articles |
Lipidomics in diagnosis of lipidoses.
Subcell Biochem. 2008;49:567-88
Authors: Wolf C, Quinn PJ
A review is presented of the major clinical features of a number of glycolipidoses including Fabry, Gaucher, Tay-Sachs, metachromatic leukodystrophy as well as CeroidLipofucinosis and Sjogren-Larsson syndrome. The possibilities offered by lipidomics for diagnosis and follow-up after enzyme replacement therapy are presented from a practical perspective. The contribution of HPLC coupled with tandem mass spectrometry has considerably simplified the detection and assay of abnormal metabolites. Corresponding internal standards consisting of weighed mixtures of the stable-isotope labeled metabolites required to calibrate and quantitate lipid components of these orphan diseases standards have yet to become commercially available. A lipidomics approach has been found to compare favorably with DNA-sequence analysis for the rapid diagnosis of pre-birth syndromes resulting from these multiple gene defects. The method also seems to be suitable for screening applications in terms of a high throughput combined with a low rate of false diagnoses based on the wide differences in metabolite concentrations found in affected patients as compared with normal subjects. The practical advantages of handling samples for lipidomic diagnoses as compared to enzyme assay are presented for application to diagnosis during pregnancy.
PMID: 18751927 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Sub-Cellular Biochemistry)]]>
Newspapers examine reaction to gop vp nominee palin's announcement of daughter's pregnancy
Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R) on Wednesday accepted the vice presidential nomination for the Republican Party at the party's national convention in St. Paul, Minn., the AP/Washington Post reports (Espo, AP/Washington Post, 9/4). Several print publications recently reported on the reaction to the nomination, as well as the announcement that her 17-year-old daughter, Bristol, is pregnant. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Advanced maternal age. part i: obstetric complications
Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1085620ABSTRACTMore women are postponing pregnancy into the fourth and fifth decades of life for a variety of reasons. Advanced maternal age, traditionally defined as age more than 35 years, has been associated with increased obstetric morbidity and interventions. In addition, perinatal complications are reported to be higher in this patient population, although recent data point to a more favorable outcome. This article reviews the available literature with special emphasis on antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum complications and perinatal outcome.[...]© Thieme Medical PublishersGet connected:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: American Journal of Perinatology)
Uganda: ugandan wins scholarship to study abortion
A Ugandan pharmacist is the lucky recipient of a $40,000 (about Shs66 million) fellowship to study abortions. Mr Joseph Babigumire, who is currently a doctorate candidate at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Washington in the US, will study the economic impact of unsafe and induced abortion in Uganda. (Source: AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth)
Pregnancy in patients with beta-thalassaemia major: maternal and foetal outcome.
 | Related Articles |
Pregnancy in patients with beta-thalassaemia major: maternal and foetal outcome.
Acta Haematol. 2008;119(1):15-7
Authors: Mancuso A, Giacobbe A, De Vivo A, Ardita FV, Meo A
PMID: 18182786 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
(Source: Acta Haematologica)]]>
How does plasmodium falciparum stick to csa? let's see in the crystal
How does Plasmodium falciparum stick to CSA? Let's see in the crystal
Nature Structural & Molecular Biology 15, 895 (2008). doi:10.1038/nsmb0908-895
Authors: Graham A Bentley
& Benoît Gamain
The crystal structure of the CSA-binding Duffy-binding-like domain DBL3x of the VAR2CSA-encoded PfEMP1 adhesin has been solved in the free state and complexed with CSA oligosaccharides, shedding light on the major host-parasite interaction in pregnancy-associated malaria. (Source: Nature Structural and Molecular Biology)
Kenya: church can ill-afford to lose the battle
At the centre of the controversial debate that seeks to legalise abortion is a tricky connivance with terms. In the connivance, abortion passes for reproductive health. (Source: AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth)
Micro premature baby fights for her life
Melissa had been advised by medical experts in Pretoria to terminate her pregnancy at 23 weeks but she refused. (Source: IOL: Health)
Maternal tolerance achieved during pregnancy is transferred to the offspring via breast milk and persistently protects the offspring from allergic asthma
Maternal, more than paternal, asthma is a risk factor for the development of asthma in children. Recently, epidemiologic studies have shown that environmental exposures during pregnancy might influence the development of childhood asthma and allergies. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the induction of tolerance against a specific antigen during pregnancy prevents in the offspring the development of allergic asthma in response to this antigen. Balb/c mice were orally tolerized with ovalbumin (OVA) during pregnancy. The offspring of tolerized and naïve mothers were immunized with OVA at 6 weeks and 4 months of age and analysed in our murine asthma model. While the offspring of naïve mice developed increased AHR, eosinophilic airway inflammation, T-helper type 2 cytokine production and high serum IgE levels in response to OVA sensitization, the offspring of tolerized mice were almost completely protected from asthma, even when immunized as late as 4 months after birth. Breastfeeding was crucial for protection because tolerance was only observed when the offspring were nursed by their own mothers and not when nursed by naïve wet-nurses. Allergen-specific IgG1 antibodies were exclusively increased in the breast milk of tolerant mothers and serum of protected pups, indirectly supporting its important role in tolerance transfer from the mother to the offspring. Sensitization of the F1 generation from OVA-tolerized mothers with a heterologous allergen enhanced the immune response to this antigen. Our results demonstrate that mucosal allergen contact during pregnancy modifies the asthma and allergy risk of the offspring mediated via breast milk. This observation may suggest that the time window for primary prevention strategies starts even before early childhood during pregnancy. (Source: Clinical and Experimental Allergy)
Determinants of pregnancy and postpartum depression: prospective influences of depressive symptoms, body image satisfaction, and exercise behavior.
|
Determinants of Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression: Prospective Influences of Depressive Symptoms, Body Image Satisfaction, and Exercise Behavior.
Ann Behav Med. 2008 Sep 5;
Authors: Downs DS, Dinallo JM, Kirner TL
BACKGROUND: Limited research has prospectively examined women's exercise and psychological health behaviors before, during, and after pregnancy. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between and the extent to which depressive symptoms (DS), body image satisfaction (BIS), and exercise behavior (EB) prospectively explained trimester-specific and postpartum depression. METHODS: Participants (N = 230 pregnant women) completed self-reported measures midway through their first, second, and third trimesters and at 6-weeks postpartum from 2005 to 2007. Women were also classified based on current activity guidelines as active and somewhat active to examine the moderating influence of pre-pregnancy EB on the contributions of the study variables for explaining DS. RESULTS: We found that : (a) DS, BIS, and EB were associated across the three pregnancy time points and postpartum, (b) DS and BIS were main determinants of later depression in pregnancy and postpartum, and (c) the moderating influence of pre-pregnancy EB was evident in early pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary findings suggest that DS and BIS are important psychological factors for intervention to improve women's pregnancy and postpartum psychological health and that EB in the pre-pregnancy period may offer women protective effects against DS in early pregnancy.
PMID: 18773252 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Annals of Behavioral Medicine)]]>
Management of recurrent preterm labor in twin gestations with nifedipine tocolysis
Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1085622ABSTRACTWe examined outcomes of twin pregnancies complicated by recurrent preterm labor receiving nifedipine tocolysis. In a retrospective study design, twin pregnancies receiving outpatient preterm labor surveillance services and oral nifedipine tocolysis following a diagnosis of preterm labor were identified from a database ( = 1421). Eligible for inclusion were patients subsequently rehospitalized with recurrent preterm labor symptoms ( = 862). Included were patients at < 35 weeks' gestation, having intact membranes, and remaining undelivered for > 48 hours after recurrent preterm labor ( = 656). Pregnancy outcomes of women resuming nifedipine tocolysis ( = 418) following hospitalization were compared with those having an alteration in treatment ( = 238) to continuous subcutaneous terbutaline. Alteration of tocolytic treatment versus resuming nifedipine resulted in increased pregnancy prolongation (34.7 ± 18.8 days versus 27.5 ± 19.9 days,  < 0.001), with delivery of fewer low birth weight (67.2% versus 78.3%,  < 0.001) and very low birth weight infants (6.5% versus 15.0%,  < 0.001) and a decreased incidence of neonatal intensive care unit admission (44.7% versus 52.9%,  = 0.005). In twin pregnancies receiving nifedipine tocolysis, alteration of tocolytic treatment to subcutaneous terbutaline following hospitalization for recurrent preterm labor symptoms had a positive impact on pregnancy prolongation and neonatal outcomes.[...]© Thieme Medical PublishersGet connected:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: American Journal of Perinatology)
Towards elimination of iodine deficiency disorders in the african region
Since the 1990s, Africa has made steady progress in controlling iodine deficiency disorders (IDD), but countries need to intensify elimination efforts, advises the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Luis Sambo. IDD refers to a wide range of health problems associated with inadequate intake of iodine such as goitre, still birth, stunted growth, thyroid deficiency and mental defects. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Editorials, opinion pieces comment on palin, daughter's pregnancy, abstinence-only sex education
Several newspapers recently published editorials and opinion pieces on the announcement by Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain (Ariz.) that Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R), who opposes abortion rights, will be his vice presidential running mate. Editorials and opinion pieces also discussed Palin's announcement that her 17-year-old daughter, Bristol, is pregnant. Summaries appear below. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Varicella zoster meningitis in a pregnant woman with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1085625ABSTRACTBetween 6000 and 7000 women in the United States infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) give birth annually. It is well known that HIV-related immunosuppression significantly increases the risk for acquiring opportunistic infections (OIs). However, there is limited information regarding the relationship of pregnancy in the setting of HIV/AIDS infection, subsequent development of OIs, and maternal and fetal outcomes. A pregnant 36-year-old woman with AIDS was diagnosed with varicella zoster meningitis. Weight-based therapy with acyclovir was initiated with clinical improvement in symptoms. Care of a pregnant HIV-infected patient with an OI poses a unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians. Early diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment may provide an opportunity to improve both maternal and fetal outcomes.[...]© Thieme Medical PublishersGet connected:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: American Journal of Perinatology)
Research finds no adverse link from bpa exposure, birth size
NEW YORK - Mount Sinai School of Medicine researchers report in the August Environmental Health Perspectives that they found no association between phenol and phthalate exposure during pregnancy and abnormal birth weights (EHP 116; 8:1092-1097).
Full story on lexis.com (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Emerging Toxic Torts Legal News)
Uganda: invest more in early childhood development
The sixth African Conference on child abuse and neglect will take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in May next year. (Source: AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth)
Ursodeoxycholic acid exposure in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Page: 885Authors: A (1); C (1); N (1); MN (2); T (1); J (1) (Source: Drug Safety)
Pharmacovigilance, an invaluable tool to gather new information on teratogenicity in pregnancy.
Page: 885Authors: G (1); P (1); Moncalvo J (1); F (1) (Source: Drug Safety)
Exposure to drugs contained in semen during conception and pregnancy: a potential risk for teratogenicity?
Page: 885Authors: P (1); L (1); Moncalvo J (1); F (1) (Source: Drug Safety)
Natural childbirth makes mothers more responsive to own baby-cry
A new study has found that mothers who delivered vaginally compared to caesarean section delivery (CSD) were significantly more responsive to the cry of their own baby, identified through MRI brain scans two to four weeks after delivery. (Source: Psychology / Psychiatry News From Medical News Today)
Conception of jersey cattle in turkey
Abstract To determine the effects of insemination season (IS; dry: May through October and rainy: November through April), lactation
number (LN; heifers, primiparous or multiparous) and their interaction on non-return rate (NRR), conception rate (CR) to first-service
and pregnancy loss (PL) of Jersey cattle in Turkey, over 1468 lactation records from 510 Jersey dairy cows were used. There
was an interaction between LN × IS on NRR, CR to first-service (p?<?0.01) and PL (p?<?0.05). The NRR and CR to first-service of heifers inseminated during dry season and of primiparous inseminated during rainy
season were higher (p?<?0.01) than that of multiparous inseminated during both season. The NRR and CR of heifers and primiparous were higher (p?<?0.05) than that of multiparous cows. The insemination of heifers during rainy season and of primiparous and multiparous
during dry season increased (p?<?0.01) the PL compared to the inseminations of heifers during dry season and of primiparous during rainy season. The PL
was lower (p?<?0.05) in primiparous than multiparous cows. The results demonstrate that the heifers have high fertility than the lactating,
especially multiparous and that IS appeared to have a measurable impact on traits relating to conception of Jersey cattle
in the each LN.
Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s11250-008-9233-3Authors
E. Soydan, Ondokuz Mayis University, Agricultural Faculty Department of Animal Science Kurupelit 55139 Samsun TurkeyN. Ocak, Ondokuz Mayis University, Agricultural Faculty Department of Animal Science Kurupelit 55139 Samsun TurkeyH. Onder, Ondokuz Mayis University, Agricultural Faculty Department of Animal Science Kurupelit 55139 Samsun Turkey
Journal Tropical Animal Health and ProductionOnline ISSN 1573-7438Print ISSN 0049-4747 (Source: Tropical Animal Health and Production)
Society of obstetricians and gynaecologists of canada recommends that parliament reject bill c-484
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) is profoundly troubled by private member's Bill C-484, entitled the Unborn Victims of Crime Act, and opposes its passage into law. This Bill can only be interpreted as giving the foetus in utero legal status at conception. (Source: Pregnancy News From Medical News Today)
Bjog release: doctors find fetal growth factors associated with early miscarriage
A new study published in BJOG examines the reasons why some women have miscarriages during the first months of pregnancy. There is a one in five risk of an early miscarriage in the first three months of pregnancy. Previous research has shown factors which increase the chance of a spontaneous miscarriage include high levels of alcohol intake and smoking during pregnancy, as well as the consumption of certain foods such as blue-veined cheeses. (Source: Pregnancy News From Medical News Today)
Exercise helps with body image, depression in pregnancy
Exercise can help expectant moms in mind as well as body. A new study suggests that women who stay active and are more positive about their changing shapes might protect themselves from depression both during and after pregnancy. "Our study supports the psychological benefits of exercise to improve body image and lessen depressive symptoms," said lead study author Danielle Symons Downs, Ph.D. (Source: Depression News From Medical News Today)
Low birth-weight associated with psychiatric problems in children
There appears to be a higher risk for psychiatric disturbance in the childhood and young adult years in babies with low birth-weight, in comparison with those of normal birth-weight, according to a report released on September 1, 2008 in the Archives of General Psychiatry, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. This correlation appeared to be greater for children in urban communities than those in suburbia. (Source: Mental Health News From Medical News Today)
Chorioallantoic placentation in galea spixii (rodentia, caviomorpha, caviidae)
Background:
To determine the variation of characters in close relatives it is essential to optimize the pool of potential animal models for human placentation. Placentas of guinea pig-related rodents are appropriate in this context because of their striking similarities to those of humans.
Methods:
In this study we firstly analyzed the chorioallantoic placentation in the prea, Galea spixii, as one of the guinea pig's closest relatives. The material covers an ontogenetic sequence from initial pregnancy shortly after implantation to term. The placentas were investigated by means of histology, immunohistochemistry, proliferation activity and electron microscopy.
Results:
Placentation in Galea reveals major parallels to the guinea pig and other caviomorphs with respect to the regionalization of the placenta, the associated growing processes, as well as trophoblast invasion. In contrast to the guinea pig however, the subplacenta as the center of origin for trophoblast invasion temporarily is supplied in parallel by the maternal and fetal blood systems.
Conclusions:
The similarity in invasion and expanding processes indicates that Galea may serve as an additional animal model that is much smaller than the guinea pig and where the subplacenta partly has access to both maternal and fetal blood systems. (Source: Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology)
Var2csa dbl6-epsilon domain expressed in hek293 induces limited cross-reactive and blocking antibodies to csa binding parasites
Background:
Pregnancy-associated malaria (PAM) is a serious consequence of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes sequestration in the placenta through the adhesion to the placental receptor chondroitin sulfate A (CSA). Although women become resistant to PAM as they acquire transcending inhibitory immunity against CSA-binding parasites, hundreds of thousands of lives could be saved if a prophylactic vaccine targeting the surface proteins of placental parasites could be designed. Recent works point to the variant protein var2CSA as the key target for the development of a pregnancy-associated malaria vaccine. However, designing such a prophylactic vaccine has been hindered by the difficulty in identifying regions of var2CSA that could elicit broadly neutralizing and adhesion-blocking antibodies.
Methods:
Var2CSA is a very large protein with an estimated molecular weight of 350 kDa, and can be divided into six cysteine rich Duffy binding-like domains (DBL). The human embryonic kidney 293 cell line (HEK293) was used to produce secreted soluble recombinant forms of var2CSA DBL domains. The Escherichia coli expression system was also assessed for the domains not expressed or expressed in low amount in the HEK293 system. To investigate whether var2CSA binding DBL domains can induce biologically active antibodies recognizing the native var2CSA and blocking the interaction, mice were immunized with the refolded DBL3-X or the HEK293 secreted DBL6-epsilon domains.
Results:
Using the HEK293 expression system, DBL1-X, DBL4-epsilon and DBL6-epsilon were produced at relatively high levels in the culture supernatant, while DBL3-X and DBL5-epsilon were produced at much lower levels. DBL2-X and DBL3-X domains were obtained after refolding of the inclusion bodies produced in E. coli. Importantly, mice antisera raised against the recombinant DBL6-epsilon domain, specifically reacted against the surface of CSA-binding parasites and revealed adhesion blocking activity.
Conclusions:
This is the first report showing inhibitory binding antibodies obtained through a var2CSA recombinant DBL domain immunization protocol. These results support the current strategies using var2CSA as immunogen in the aim of blocking placental sequestration of malaria parasites. This work is a step towards the development of a var2CSA based vaccine that will prevent pregnancy-associated malaria and improve pregnancy outcomes. (Source: BioMed Central)
Dietary sodium manipulation during critical periods in development sensitize adult offspring to amphetamines
This study examined critical periods in development to determine when offspring were most susceptible to dietary sodium manipulation leading to amphetamine sensitization. Wistar dams (n = 6–8/group) were fed chow containing low (0.12% NaCl; LN), normal (1% NaCl; NN), or high sodium (4% NaCl; HN) during the prenatal or early postnatal period (birth to 5 wk). Offspring were fed normal chow thereafter until testing at 6 mo. Body weight (BW), blood pressure (BP), fluid intake, salt preference, response to amphetamine, open field behavior, plasma adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), plasma corticosterone (Cort), and adrenal gland weight were measured. BW was similar for all offspring. Offspring from the prenatal and postnatal HN group had increased BP, NaCl intake, and salt preference and decreased water intake relative to NN offspring. Prenatal HN offspring had greater BP than postnatal HN offspring. In response to amphetamine, both prenatal and postnatal LN and HN offspring had increased locomotor behavior compared with NN offspring. In a novel open field environment, locomotion was also increased in prenatal and postnatal LN and HN offspring compared with NN offspring. ACTH and Cort levels 30 min after restraint stress and adrenal gland weight measurement were greater in LN and HN offspring compared with NN offspring. These results indicate that early life experience with low- and high-sodium diets, during the prenatal or early postnatal period, is a stress that produces long-term changes in responsiveness to amphetamines and to subsequent stressors. (Source: AJP: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology)
Lower uterine artery blood flow and higher endothelin relative to nitric oxide metabolite levels are associated with reductions in birth weight at high altitude
Reduced uteroplacental blood flow is hypothesized to play a key role in altitude-associated fetal growth restriction. It is unknown whether reduced blood flow is a cause or consequence of reduced fetal size. We asked whether determinants of uteroplacental blood flow were altered prior to reduced fetal growth and whether vasoactive and/or angiogenic factors were involved. Women residing at low (LA; 1600 m, n = 18) or high altitude (HA; 3100 m, n = 25) were studied during pregnancy (20, 30, and 36 wk) and 4 mo postpartum (PP) using Doppler ultrasound. In each study, endothelin (ET-1), nitric oxide metabolites (NOx), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) levels were quantified. At HA, birth weights were lower (P < 0.01) and small-for-gestational age was more common (P < 0.05) compared with LA. HA was associated with lower uterine artery (UA) diameter (P < 0.01) and blood flow (P < 0.05). Altitude did not affect ET-1, sFlt-1 or PlGF; however, ET-1/NOx was greater and NOx lower during pregnancy and PP at HA vs. LA. ET-1/NOx was negatively associated with birth weight (20 wk, P < 0.01; 36 wk, P = 0.05) at LA and HA combined. At HA, UA blood flow (30 wk) was positively associated with birth weight (). UA blood flow and ET-1/NOx levels accounted for 45% (20 wk) and 32% (30 wk) of birth weight variation at LA and HA combined, primarily attributed to effects at HA. We concluded that elevated ET-1/NOx and altered determinants of uteroplacental blood flow occur prior to altitude-associated reductions in fetal growth, and therefore, they are likely a cause rather than a consequence of smaller fetal size. (Source: AJP: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology)
Mechanisms of neonatal increase in glomerular filtration rate
To investigate the mechanisms responsible for the neonatal increase in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), renal function studies (whole kidney and micropuncture) were carried out in anesthesized fetal sheep (133–140 days gestation; term = 150 days) and lambs (12–18 days). Fetuses were delivered and placed in a water bath (39.5°C), keeping the umbilical cord moist and intact. Lambs were studied on a thermostatically controlled heating pad. Animals were prepared for either blood flow studies or micropuncture measurements. Expected differences in blood composition and cardiovascular and renal function were observed between fetuses and lambs, and values obtained for most variables were similar to those measured in chronically catheterized unanesthetized animals. Fetal GFR was much lower than that of lambs (0.20 vs. 0.62 ml·min–1·g kidney–1, P < 0.001). Free-flow, stop-flow, and net filtration pressures (NFP) were lower in the fetuses than the lambs (NFP 20.8 vs. 23.8 mmHg, P < 0.001), as was the calculated ultrafiltration coefficient (0.014 vs. 0.022 ml·min–1·g–1·mmHg–1, P < 0.001). Thus, we conclude that rises in both net filtration pressure and the ultrafiltration coefficient contribute to the large increase in GFR between fetal life and ~2 wk after birth. (Source: AJP: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology)
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and transposition of great arteries associated with maternal diabetes and presumed gestational diabetes
Maternal diabetes mellitus affects the foetal heart both structurally and functionally. In early gestation, it has a teratogenic effect causing defects of primary cardiogenesis. In late gestation, it causes a unique form of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. We report an infant of a diabetic mother and an infant where there was presumed gestational diabetes during the pregnancy who presented with combined severe hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and complex transposition of the great arteries. This rare combination of structural and functional cardiac abnormalities reflects the different mechanisms and timings of injury that may occur to the foetal heart in association with maternal diabetes and has not been previously reported. The combination has significant implications regarding medical and surgical management, and necessitates prolonged supportive therapy whilst awaiting regression of the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy followed by delayed arterial switch operation. Conclusion: We describe two infants with the unusual combination of both hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and transposition of the great arteries. One was an infant of a diabetic mother, and the second was associated with presumed gestational diabetes. (Source: Acta Paediatrica)
Preclinical characterization of a (s)-n-(4-cyano-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-3-(3-fluoro, 4-chlorophenoxy)-2-hydroxy-2-methyl-propanamide: a selective androgen receptor modulator for hormonal male contraception.
|
Preclinical Characterization of a (S)-N-(4-Cyano-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-3-(3-fluoro, 4-chlorophenoxy)-2-Hydroxy-2-Methyl-Propanamide: A Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator for Hormonal Male Contraception.
Endocrinology. 2008 Sep 4;
Authors: Jones A, Chen J, Hwang DJ, Miller DD, Dalton JT
The pharmacologic effects of (S)-N-(4-Cyano-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-3-(3-fluoro, 4-chlorophenoxy)-2-Hydroxy-2-Methyl-Propanamide (S-23) were characterized in male rats as an animal model of hormonal male contraception. S-23 showed high binding affinity (Ki=1.7+/-0.2 nM) and was identified as a full agonist in vitro. In castrated male rats, the ED50 of S-23 in the prostate and levator ani muscle was 0.43 and 0.079 mg/day, respectively. In intact male rats treated for 14 days, S-23 alone suppressed LH levels by greater than 50% at doses greater than 0.1 mg/day, with corresponding decreases in the size of the prostate but increases in the size of levator ani muscle. In intact male rats treated for up to 10 weeks with S-23 and estradiol benzoate (EB; necessary to maintain sexual behavior in rats), S-23 showed biphasic effects on androgenic tissues and spermatogenesis by suppressing serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone. EB alone showed no effect on spermatogenesis. In the EB + S-23 (0.1mg/day) group, 4/6 of animals showed no sperm in the testis and zero pregnancies (0/6) in mating trials. After termination of treatment, infertility was fully reversible, with a 100% pregnancy rate observed after 100 days of recovery. S-23 increased bone mineral density and lean mass, but reduced fat mass in a dose-dependent manner. This is the first study to show that a SARM combined with EB is an effective and reversible regimen for hormonal male contraception in rats. The beneficial effects of S-23 on the muscle, tissue selectivity, and favorable pharmacokinetic properties make it a strong candidate for use in oral male contraception.
PMID: 18772237 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Endocrinology)]]>
Development and characterization of a sv-40 immortalized bovine endometrial stromal cell line.
|
Development and Characterization of a SV-40 Immortalized Bovine Endometrial Stromal Cell Line.
Endocrinology. 2008 Sep 4;
Authors: Krishnaswamy N, Chapdelaine P, Tremblay JP, Fortier MA
In ruminants, Interferon-tau (IFNtau) is the maternal recognition signal inhibiting prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) production by endometrial epithelial cells and stimulating IFN stimulated genes (ISGs) in the stroma. Stromal cells mediate the action of progesterone on epithelial cells during pregnancy. Our working hypothesis is that IFNtau acts as a molecular switch that turns on PGE2 production in endometrial stromal cells while suppressing PGF2alpha production from epithelial cells. In this report, we document immortalization and functional characterization of a bovine stromal cell line from the caruncular region of the endometrium (CSC). Primary stromal cells were immortalized by nucleofection with SV40 Large T antigen (SV40 TAG) and integrase. The resulting cell line CSC, expresses stromal cell specific vimentin, estrogen and progesterone receptors and is amenable for transient transfection. Basal and stimulated production of PGE2 is higher than PGF2alpha and associated with cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expression. Phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and IFNtau up-regulate COX2 and PG production in a dose-dependent manner. When added together, low concentrations of IFNtau inhibit PMA-induced COX2 expression; whereas this inhibition is lost at high concentrations. Expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) is induced by IFNtau at all concentrations studied, but is not modulated by PMA. Since expression of STAT1 does not exhibit the biphasic response to IFNtau, we investigated the p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) pathway using the selective inhibitor SB203580. Inhibition of the p38 MAPK pathway abolishes IFNtau action on PG production. In summary, CSC appears as a good stromal cell model for investigating the molecular mechanisms related to IFNtau action and PG production in the bovine.
PMID: 18772234 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Endocrinology)]]>
Lysophosphatidic acid signaling during embryo development in sheep: involvement in prostaglandin synthesis.
|
Lysophosphatidic acid signaling during embryo development in sheep: involvement in prostaglandin synthesis.
Endocrinology. 2008 Sep 4;
Authors: Liszewska E, Reinaud P, Billon-Denis E, Dubois O, Robin P, Charpigny G
We investigated the lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) pathway during early pregnancy in sheep. LPA was detected in the uteri of early-stages pregnant ewes. Using Q-RTPCR, the expression of autotaxin, the LPA-generating enzyme, was found in the endometrium and conceptus. In the latter autotaxin transcript levels were low on days 12-14 and increased on days 15-16, in parallel with the level of LPA. Autotaxin was localized in the luminal epithelium and superficial glands of the endometrium and in trophectoderm cells of the conceptus. The expression of G protein-coupled receptors for LPA was also examined in the ovine conceptus. LPAR1and LPAR3 transcripts were expressed during early pregnancy and displayed a peak on day 14, whereas the highest level of protein for both receptors was observed at day 17. LPAR1 was localized in cellular membranes and nuclear compartments of the trophectoderm cells whereas LPAR3 was only revealed in membranes. LPA activated phosphorylation of the MAPK ERK(1/2) in ovine trophectoderm derived cells. Moreover, the bioactive lipid increased the proliferation of trophectoderm cells in culture, as shown by thymidine and BrdU incorporation. Furthermore, LPA induced changes to the organization of ss-actin and alpha-tubulin, suggesting a role for it in rearrangement of the cytoskeleton of trophectoderm cells. Because a link had previously been established between prostaglandin and LPA pathways, we analyzed the effect of LPA on prostaglandin synthesis. LPA induced an increase in the release of PGF2alpha and PGE2, with no significant modifications to cPLA2alpha and PTGS2 expression. Taken together, our results suggest a new role for LPA-mediated signaling in the ovine conceptus at the time of implantation.
PMID: 18772233 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Endocrinology)]]>
baby proof your home.
Take a life insurance policy if you don't already have one.
Maybe you might know when your due date is, but you don't know when your labor pain will start so keeping your bags packed in advance will help you in avoiding last-minute rush.
As detailed as this article is, don't forget that you can find more information about real online pregnancy tests or any such information from any of the search engines out there such as MSN.com. Commit yourself to finding specific information therein about real online pregnancy tests and you will.
We were thrilled to know that many people found this article about real online pregnancy tests and other baby phat, child birth pictures, and even tb test child birth helpful.
FOOTNOTE -- There you go. I am sure this article helped you in your search for information related to real online pregnancy tests, child birth test compare, lesbian child birth, late period negative child birth test, child birth week by week, child birth test 2 and walgreens child birth test.
Deepak Kulkarni is a superb writer with lots of helpful and interesting articles on several subjects of interesting including real online pregnancy tests and other somewhat related pictures of pregnant women, child birth time, baby shower ideas, child birth forum, printable calendar and best time to take child birth test information.
MORE INFO ABOUT THIS WEBSITE - This site also has other well-written and helpful articles not only related to real online pregnancy tests, but also other articles somewhat related to baby scissors, pounds child birth, early child birth tests, late period negative child birth test, about child birth and baby calendar.
Here are some more pregnancy articles...
Signs Of Pregnancy In Dogs Free Interrelated Information
You see, we should be very thankful that we are born in this modern generation because of the existence of the Internet. With the Internet, every information (whether about signs of pregnancy in Read more...
|
Pregnancy Calculater Free Interrelated Roadmap
If you are looking for information about pregnancy calculater, you will find the below related article very helpful. It provides a refreshing perspective that is very related to pregnancy Read more...
|
False Pregnancy In Dogs Significant Article
As you search for false pregnancy in dogs related information or other information about pregnant teens, healthy child birth, 28 weeks pregnant, child birth test hormone, when can you take a child Read more...
|
| real online pregnancy tests news: |
Video - childbirth
We follow several women in their last days of pregnancy, through to childbirth and their first weeks of parenthood. (Source: New on NHS Direct)
Case report: delivering a full-term baby while on hemodialysis is possible
For women with chronic kidney disease (CKD), getting pregnant is very rare, and a successful pregnancy is even more uncommon, especially for women on dialysis. In the July-August 2008 issue of Nephrology Nursing Journal, Mary Coyle and co-authors present a case report of a 35-year-old woman with Stage 5 CKD who successfully completed a 39-week pregnancy while on hemodialysis. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Scots schools to get sexual health clinics
SIXTY thousand Scots pupils are to be given access to sexual health services in school, allowing children as young as 13 to receive condoms and pregnancy tests. (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health)
Women warned of herbal remedies risk in pregnancy
THOUSANDS of pregnant women could be risking the health of their unborn babies by taking herbal remedies without knowing the risks. (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health)
Women with hormone disorder may benefit from acupuncture
Getting pregnant with her first child was difficult, but when Rebecca Killmeyer of Charlottesville, Va. experienced a miscarriage during her second pregnancy, she wasn't sure if she would ever have another baby. When she decided to enter a study testing the impact of acupuncture on women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) at the University of Virginia Health System, she came out with a miracle. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
The influence of reproductive status and age on women's sleep
Journal of Women's Health Sep 2008, Vol. 17, No. 7: 1209-1214.
Abstract This review paper summarizes presentations from a conference update on the state of knowledge about the extent to which reproductive status and age influence women's sleep. Key issues pertaining to sleep during menstrual cycles, pregnancy and ... (Source: Journal of Women)
Ra remission during pregnancy less frequent than thought
Pregnancy can lead to remission of rheumatoid arthritis, although less frequently than previously described, a prospective study has shown. (Source: MedWire News - Bone Health)
Evaluation of thyrotoxicosis during pregnancy with color flow doppler sonography.
Page: 177DOI: 10.1097/01.RUQ.0000335206.05584.97 (Source: Ultrasound Quarterly)
Late recurrence of ewing sarcoma during pregnancy: a report of 2 cases.
Page: 716DOI: 10.1097/MPH.0b013e318175895fAuthors: DuBois, Steven G. MD *; Perez-Atayde, Antonio R. MD +; McLean, Thomas W. MD ++; Grier, Holcombe E. MD [S] (Source: Journal of Pediatric Hematology Oncology)
Elevated maternal il-16 levels, enhanced il-16 expressions in endothelium and leukocytes, and increased il-16 production by placental trophoblasts in women with preeclampsia.
| | Related Articles |
Elevated Maternal IL-16 Levels, Enhanced IL-16 Expressions in Endothelium and Leukocytes, and Increased IL-16 Production by Placental Trophoblasts in Women with Preeclampsia.
J Immunol. 2008 Sep 15;181(6):4418-22
Authors: Gu Y, Lewis DF, Deere K, Groome LJ, Wang Y
Cytokine IL-16 plays an important role in innate immune responses. However, little information is available about IL-16 function in human pregnancy. In this study, we collected maternal blood samples from 125 pregnant women between 26 and 41 wk of gestation, 63 from normal pregnant women and 62 from women with preeclampsia (PE). Serum IL-16C levels were measured by ELISA. We also examined IL-16C and IL-16N immunostaining in maternal vessels and protein expression in leukocytes from normal and PE pregnant women. In addition, IL-16C production by placental trophoblasts was also determined. Our results showed that IL-16C levels were significantly higher in severe PE than in mild PE and normal pregnant controls, 515 +/- 58 vs 287 +/- 46 (p < 0.05) and 163 +/- 9 pg/ml (p < 0.01), respectively, indicating that increased IL-16 levels in PE is associated with the severity of the disease. There was no difference for the IL-16C levels in normal pregnant women throughout the third trimester. The correlation of maternal IL-16C levels with labor and body mass index was also analyzed. IL-16C levels were neither associated with labor nor associated with body mass index. Moreover, increased IL-16C immunostaining in maternal vessel endothelium and enhanced IL-16C protein expression in leukocytes were observed in PE. We also found that IL-16C production was increased by trophoblasts from PE placentas. Our study demonstrated up-regulation of the IL-16 profile in both the maternal and the placental systems in PE, suggesting that IL-16 could be an important cytokine engaged in the altered immune system and exaggerated inflammatory response in PE syndrome.
PMID: 18768901 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Journal of Immunology)]]>
Selected update: affective disorders: baby blues
Two studies addressing different aspects of maternal depression during pregnancy and the post-partum period show that that exposure to antidepressants in utero can have long-lasting effects on the offspring's serotonin system, and that altered sensitivity of GABA
([gamma]-aminobutyric acid) type-A receptors might predispose women to post-partum depression. (Source: Nature Signaling Update)
The regai dzive shiri project: a cluster randomised controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of a multi-component community-based hiv prevention intervention for rural youth in zimbabwe – study design and baseline results
Objective To assess the effectiveness of a community-based HIV prevention intervention for adolescents in terms of its impact on (1) HIV and Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) incidence and on rates of unintended pregnancy and (2) reported sexual behaviour, knowledge and attitudes.Methods Cluster randomised trial of a multi-component HIV prevention intervention for adolescents based in rural Zimbabwe. Thirty communities were selected and randomised in 2003 to early or deferred intervention implementation. A baseline bio-behavioural survey was conducted among 6791 secondary school pupils (86% of eligibles) prior to intervention implementation.Results Baseline prevalences were 0.8% (95% CI: 0.6[ndash]1.0) for HIV and 0.2% (95% CI: 0.1[ndash]0.3%) for HSV-2. Four girls (0.12%) were pregnant. There was excellent balance between study arms. Orphans who made up 35% of the cohort were at increased risk of HIV [age[ndash]sex adjusted odds ratio 3.4 (95% CI: 1.7[ndash]6.5)]. 11.9% of young men and 2.9% of young women reported that they were sexually active (P < 0.001); however, there were inconsistencies in the sexual behaviour data. Girls were less likely to know about reproductive health issues than boys (P < 0.001) and were less likely to have used and to be able to access condoms (P < 0.001).Conclusion This is one of the first rigorous evaluations of a community-based HIV prevention intervention for young people in southern Africa. The low rates of HIV suggest that the intervention was started before this population became sexually active. Inconsistency and under-reporting of sexual behaviour re-emphasise the importance of using externally validated measures of sexual risk reduction in behavioural intervention studies. (Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health)
An introduction to maternal mortality.
| Related Articles |
An introduction to maternal mortality.
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):77-81
Authors: Nour NM
Approximately 529,000 women die from pregnancy-related causes annually and almost all (99%) of these maternal deaths occur in developing nations. One of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals is to reduce the maternal mortality rate by 75% by 2015. Causes of maternal mortality include postpartum hemorrhage, eclampsia, obstructed labor, and sepsis. Many developing nations lack adequate health care and family planning, and pregnant women have minimal access to skilled labor and emergency care. Basic emergency obstetric interventions, such as antibiotics, oxytocics, anticonvulsants, manual removal of placenta, and instrumented vaginal delivery, are vital to improve the chance of survival.
PMID: 18769668 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Bilateral ectopic pregnancy.
| Related Articles |
Bilateral ectopic pregnancy.
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):48
Authors: Greenberg JA
PMID: 18769663 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Does acupuncture enhance a woman's chance for pregnancy and a live birth?
| Related Articles |
Does Acupuncture Enhance a Woman's Chance for Pregnancy and a Live Birth?
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):89
Authors: Kent A
PMID: 18769662 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Management of early pregnancy failure.
| Related Articles |
Management of early pregnancy failure.
Rev Obstet Gynecol. 2008;1(2):90-1
Authors: Kent A
PMID: 18769660 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology)]]>
Lipidomics in diagnosis of lipidoses.
| Related Articles |
Lipidomics in diagnosis of lipidoses.
Subcell Biochem. 2008;49:567-88
Authors: Wolf C, Quinn PJ
A review is presented of the major clinical features of a number of glycolipidoses including Fabry, Gaucher, Tay-Sachs, metachromatic leukodystrophy as well as CeroidLipofucinosis and Sjogren-Larsson syndrome. The possibilities offered by lipidomics for diagnosis and follow-up after enzyme replacement therapy are presented from a practical perspective. The contribution of HPLC coupled with tandem mass spectrometry has considerably simplified the detection and assay of abnormal metabolites. Corresponding internal standards consisting of weighed mixtures of the stable-isotope labeled metabolites required to calibrate and quantitate lipid components of these orphan diseases standards have yet to become commercially available. A lipidomics approach has been found to compare favorably with DNA-sequence analysis for the rapid diagnosis of pre-birth syndromes resulting from these multiple gene defects. The method also seems to be suitable for screening applications in terms of a high throughput combined with a low rate of false diagnoses based on the wide differences in metabolite concentrations found in affected patients as compared with normal subjects. The practical advantages of handling samples for lipidomic diagnoses as compared to enzyme assay are presented for application to diagnosis during pregnancy.
PMID: 18751927 [PubMed - in process]
(Source: Sub-Cellular Biochemistry)]]>
Newspapers examine reaction to gop vp nominee palin's announcement of daughter's pregnancy
Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R) on Wednesday accepted the vice presidential nomination for the Republican Party at the party's national convention in St. Paul, Minn., the AP/Washington Post reports (Espo, AP/Washington Post, 9/4). Several print publications recently reported on the reaction to the nomination, as well as the announcement that her 17-year-old daughter, Bristol, is pregnant. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Advanced maternal age. part i: obstetric complications
Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1085620ABSTRACTMore women are postponing pregnancy into the fourth and fifth decades of life for a variety of reasons. Advanced maternal age, traditionally defined as age more than 35 years, has been associated with increased obstetric morbidity and interventions. In addition, perinatal complications are reported to be higher in this patient population, although recent data point to a more favorable outcome. This article reviews the available literature with special emphasis on antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum complications and perinatal outcome.[...]© Thieme Medical PublishersGet connected:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: American Journal of Perinatology)
Uganda: ugandan wins scholarship to study abortion
A Ugandan pharmacist is the lucky recipient of a $40,000 (about Shs66 million) fellowship to study abortions. Mr Joseph Babigumire, who is currently a doctorate candidate at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Washington in the US, will study the economic impact of unsafe and induced abortion in Uganda. (Source: AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth)
Pregnancy in patients with beta-thalassaemia major: maternal and foetal outcome.
| | Related Articles |
Pregnancy in patients with beta-thalassaemia major: maternal and foetal outcome.
Acta Haematol. 2008;119(1):15-7
Authors: Mancuso A, Giacobbe A, De Vivo A, Ardita FV, Meo A
PMID: 18182786 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
(Source: Acta Haematologica)]]>
How does plasmodium falciparum stick to csa? let's see in the crystal
How does Plasmodium falciparum stick to CSA? Let's see in the crystal
Nature Structural & Molecular Biology 15, 895 (2008). doi:10.1038/nsmb0908-895
Authors: Graham A Bentley
& Benoît Gamain
The crystal structure of the CSA-binding Duffy-binding-like domain DBL3x of the VAR2CSA-encoded PfEMP1 adhesin has been solved in the free state and complexed with CSA oligosaccharides, shedding light on the major host-parasite interaction in pregnancy-associated malaria. (Source: Nature Structural and Molecular Biology)
Kenya: church can ill-afford to lose the battle
At the centre of the controversial debate that seeks to legalise abortion is a tricky connivance with terms. In the connivance, abortion passes for reproductive health. (Source: AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth)
Micro premature baby fights for her life
Melissa had been advised by medical experts in Pretoria to terminate her pregnancy at 23 weeks but she refused. (Source: IOL: Health)
Maternal tolerance achieved during pregnancy is transferred to the offspring via breast milk and persistently protects the offspring from allergic asthma
Maternal, more than paternal, asthma is a risk factor for the development of asthma in children. Recently, epidemiologic studies have shown that environmental exposures during pregnancy might influence the development of childhood asthma and allergies. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the induction of tolerance against a specific antigen during pregnancy prevents in the offspring the development of allergic asthma in response to this antigen. Balb/c mice were orally tolerized with ovalbumin (OVA) during pregnancy. The offspring of tolerized and naïve mothers were immunized with OVA at 6 weeks and 4 months of age and analysed in our murine asthma model. While the offspring of naïve mice developed increased AHR, eosinophilic airway inflammation, T-helper type 2 cytokine production and high serum IgE levels in response to OVA sensitization, the offspring of tolerized mice were almost completely protected from asthma, even when immunized as late as 4 months after birth. Breastfeeding was crucial for protection because tolerance was only observed when the offspring were nursed by their own mothers and not when nursed by naïve wet-nurses. Allergen-specific IgG1 antibodies were exclusively increased in the breast milk of tolerant mothers and serum of protected pups, indirectly supporting its important role in tolerance transfer from the mother to the offspring. Sensitization of the F1 generation from OVA-tolerized mothers with a heterologous allergen enhanced the immune response to this antigen. Our results demonstrate that mucosal allergen contact during pregnancy modifies the asthma and allergy risk of the offspring mediated via breast milk. This observation may suggest that the time window for primary prevention strategies starts even before early childhood during pregnancy. (Source: Clinical and Experimental Allergy)
Determinants of pregnancy and postpartum depression: prospective influences of depressive symptoms, body image satisfaction, and exercise behavior.
|
Determinants of Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression: Prospective Influences of Depressive Symptoms, Body Image Satisfaction, and Exercise Behavior.
Ann Behav Med. 2008 Sep 5;
Authors: Downs DS, Dinallo JM, Kirner TL
BACKGROUND: Limited research has prospectively examined women's exercise and psychological health behaviors before, during, and after pregnancy. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between and the extent to which depressive symptoms (DS), body image satisfaction (BIS), and exercise behavior (EB) prospectively explained trimester-specific and postpartum depression. METHODS: Participants (N = 230 pregnant women) completed self-reported measures midway through their first, second, and third trimesters and at 6-weeks postpartum from 2005 to 2007. Women were also classified based on current activity guidelines as active and somewhat active to examine the moderating influence of pre-pregnancy EB on the contributions of the study variables for explaining DS. RESULTS: We found that : (a) DS, BIS, and EB were associated across the three pregnancy time points and postpartum, (b) DS and BIS were main determinants of later depression in pregnancy and postpartum, and (c) the moderating influence of pre-pregnancy EB was evident in early pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary findings suggest that DS and BIS are important psychological factors for intervention to improve women's pregnancy and postpartum psychological health and that EB in the pre-pregnancy period may offer women protective effects against DS in early pregnancy.
PMID: 18773252 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Annals of Behavioral Medicine)]]>
Management of recurrent preterm labor in twin gestations with nifedipine tocolysis
Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1085622ABSTRACTWe examined outcomes of twin pregnancies complicated by recurrent preterm labor receiving nifedipine tocolysis. In a retrospective study design, twin pregnancies receiving outpatient preterm labor surveillance services and oral nifedipine tocolysis following a diagnosis of preterm labor were identified from a database ( = 1421). Eligible for inclusion were patients subsequently rehospitalized with recurrent preterm labor symptoms ( = 862). Included were patients at < 35 weeks' gestation, having intact membranes, and remaining undelivered for > 48 hours after recurrent preterm labor ( = 656). Pregnancy outcomes of women resuming nifedipine tocolysis ( = 418) following hospitalization were compared with those having an alteration in treatment ( = 238) to continuous subcutaneous terbutaline. Alteration of tocolytic treatment versus resuming nifedipine resulted in increased pregnancy prolongation (34.7 ± 18.8 days versus 27.5 ± 19.9 days,  < 0.001), with delivery of fewer low birth weight (67.2% versus 78.3%,  < 0.001) and very low birth weight infants (6.5% versus 15.0%,  < 0.001) and a decreased incidence of neonatal intensive care unit admission (44.7% versus 52.9%,  = 0.005). In twin pregnancies receiving nifedipine tocolysis, alteration of tocolytic treatment to subcutaneous terbutaline following hospitalization for recurrent preterm labor symptoms had a positive impact on pregnancy prolongation and neonatal outcomes.[...]© Thieme Medical PublishersGet connected:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: American Journal of Perinatology)
Towards elimination of iodine deficiency disorders in the african region
Since the 1990s, Africa has made steady progress in controlling iodine deficiency disorders (IDD), but countries need to intensify elimination efforts, advises the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Luis Sambo. IDD refers to a wide range of health problems associated with inadequate intake of iodine such as goitre, still birth, stunted growth, thyroid deficiency and mental defects. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Editorials, opinion pieces comment on palin, daughter's pregnancy, abstinence-only sex education
Several newspapers recently published editorials and opinion pieces on the announcement by Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain (Ariz.) that Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R), who opposes abortion rights, will be his vice presidential running mate. Editorials and opinion pieces also discussed Palin's announcement that her 17-year-old daughter, Bristol, is pregnant. Summaries appear below. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
Varicella zoster meningitis in a pregnant woman with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
Amer J PerinatolDOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1085625ABSTRACTBetween 6000 and 7000 women in the United States infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) give birth annually. It is well known that HIV-related immunosuppression significantly increases the risk for acquiring opportunistic infections (OIs). However, there is limited information regarding the relationship of pregnancy in the setting of HIV/AIDS infection, subsequent development of OIs, and maternal and fetal outcomes. A pregnant 36-year-old woman with AIDS was diagnosed with varicella zoster meningitis. Weight-based therapy with acyclovir was initiated with clinical improvement in symptoms. Care of a pregnant HIV-infected patient with an OI poses a unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians. Early diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment may provide an opportunity to improve both maternal and fetal outcomes.[...]© Thieme Medical PublishersGet connected:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: American Journal of Perinatology)
Research finds no adverse link from bpa exposure, birth size
NEW YORK - Mount Sinai School of Medicine researchers report in the August Environmental Health Perspectives that they found no association between phenol and phthalate exposure during pregnancy and abnormal birth weights (EHP 116; 8:1092-1097).
Full story on lexis.com (Source: LexisNexis® Mealey's™ Emerging Toxic Torts Legal News)
Uganda: invest more in early childhood development
The sixth African Conference on child abuse and neglect will take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in May next year. (Source: AllAfrica News: Pregnancy and Childbirth)
Ursodeoxycholic acid exposure in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Page: 885Authors: A (1); C (1); N (1); MN (2); T (1); J (1) (Source: Drug Safety)
Pharmacovigilance, an invaluable tool to gather new information on teratogenicity in pregnancy.
Page: 885Authors: G (1); P (1); Moncalvo J (1); F (1) (Source: Drug Safety)
Exposure to drugs contained in semen during conception and pregnancy: a potential risk for teratogenicity?
Page: 885Authors: P (1); L (1); Moncalvo J (1); F (1) (Source: Drug Safety)
Natural childbirth makes mothers more responsive to own baby-cry
A new study has found that mothers who delivered vaginally compared to caesarean section delivery (CSD) were significantly more responsive to the cry of their own baby, identified through MRI brain scans two to four weeks after delivery. (Source: Psychology / Psychiatry News From Medical News Today)
Conception of jersey cattle in turkey
Abstract To determine the effects of insemination season (IS; dry: May through October and rainy: November through April), lactation
number (LN; heifers, primiparous or multiparous) and their interaction on non-return rate (NRR), conception rate (CR) to first-service
and pregnancy loss (PL) of Jersey cattle in Turkey, over 1468 lactation records from 510 Jersey dairy cows were used. There
was an interaction between LN × IS on NRR, CR to first-service (p?<?0.01) and PL (p?<?0.05). The NRR and CR to first-service of heifers inseminated during dry season and of primiparous inseminated during rainy
season were higher (p?<?0.01) than that of multiparous inseminated during both season. The NRR and CR of heifers and primiparous were higher (p?<?0.05) than that of multiparous cows. The insemination of heifers during rainy season and of primiparous and multiparous
during dry season increased (p?<?0.01) the PL compared to the inseminations of heifers during dry season and of primiparous during rainy season. The PL
was lower (p?<?0.05) in primiparous than multiparous cows. The results demonstrate that the heifers have high fertility than the lactating,
especially multiparous and that IS appeared to have a measurable impact on traits relating to conception of Jersey cattle
in the each LN.
Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s11250-008-9233-3Authors
E. Soydan, Ondokuz Mayis University, Agricultural Faculty Department of Animal Science Kurupelit 55139 Samsun TurkeyN. Ocak, Ondokuz Mayis University, Agricultural Faculty Department of Animal Science Kurupelit 55139 Samsun TurkeyH. Onder, Ondokuz Mayis University, Agricultural Faculty Department of Animal Science Kurupelit 55139 Samsun Turkey
Journal Tropical Animal Health and ProductionOnline ISSN 1573-7438Print ISSN 0049-4747 (Source: Tropical Animal Health and Production)
Society of obstetricians and gynaecologists of canada recommends that parliament reject bill c-484
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) is profoundly troubled by private member's Bill C-484, entitled the Unborn Victims of Crime Act, and opposes its passage into law. This Bill can only be interpreted as giving the foetus in utero legal status at conception. (Source: Pregnancy News From Medical News Today)
Bjog release: doctors find fetal growth factors associated with early miscarriage
A new study published in BJOG examines the reasons why some women have miscarriages during the first months of pregnancy. There is a one in five risk of an early miscarriage in the first three months of pregnancy. Previous research has shown factors which increase the chance of a spontaneous miscarriage include high levels of alcohol intake and smoking during pregnancy, as well as the consumption of certain foods such as blue-veined cheeses. (Source: Pregnancy News From Medical News Today)
Exercise helps with body image, depression in pregnancy
Exercise can help expectant moms in mind as well as body. A new study suggests that women who stay active and are more positive about their changing shapes might protect themselves from depression both during and after pregnancy. "Our study supports the psychological benefits of exercise to improve body image and lessen depressive symptoms," said lead study author Danielle Symons Downs, Ph.D. (Source: Depression News From Medical News Today)
Low birth-weight associated with psychiatric problems in children
There appears to be a higher risk for psychiatric disturbance in the childhood and young adult years in babies with low birth-weight, in comparison with those of normal birth-weight, according to a report released on September 1, 2008 in the Archives of General Psychiatry, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. This correlation appeared to be greater for children in urban communities than those in suburbia. (Source: Mental Health News From Medical News Today)
Chorioallantoic placentation in galea spixii (rodentia, caviomorpha, caviidae)
Background:
To determine the variation of characters in close relatives it is essential to optimize the pool of potential animal models for human placentation. Placentas of guinea pig-related rodents are appropriate in this context because of their striking similarities to those of humans.
Methods:
In this study we firstly analyzed the chorioallantoic placentation in the prea, Galea spixii, as one of the guinea pig's closest relatives. The material covers an ontogenetic sequence from initial pregnancy shortly after implantation to term. The placentas were investigated by means of histology, immunohistochemistry, proliferation activity and electron microscopy.
Results:
Placentation in Galea reveals major parallels to the guinea pig and other caviomorphs with respect to the regionalization of the placenta, the associated growing processes, as well as trophoblast invasion. In contrast to the guinea pig however, the subplacenta as the center of origin for trophoblast invasion temporarily is supplied in parallel by the maternal and fetal blood systems.
Conclusions:
The similarity in invasion and expanding processes indicates that Galea may serve as an additional animal model that is much smaller than the guinea pig and where the subplacenta partly has access to both maternal and fetal blood systems. (Source: Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology)
Var2csa dbl6-epsilon domain expressed in hek293 induces limited cross-reactive and blocking antibodies to csa binding parasites
Background:
Pregnancy-associated malaria (PAM) is a serious consequence of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes sequestration in the placenta through the adhesion to the placental receptor chondroitin sulfate A (CSA). Although women become resistant to PAM as they acquire transcending inhibitory immunity against CSA-binding parasites, hundreds of thousands of lives could be saved if a prophylactic vaccine targeting the surface proteins of placental parasites could be designed. Recent works point to the variant protein var2CSA as the key target for the development of a pregnancy-associated malaria vaccine. However, designing such a prophylactic vaccine has been hindered by the difficulty in identifying regions of var2CSA that could elicit broadly neutralizing and adhesion-blocking antibodies.
Methods:
Var2CSA is a very large protein with an estimated molecular weight of 350 kDa, and can be divided into six cysteine rich Duffy binding-like domains (DBL). The human embryonic kidney 293 cell line (HEK293) was used to produce secreted soluble recombinant forms of var2CSA DBL domains. The Escherichia coli expression system was also assessed for the domains not expressed or expressed in low amount in the HEK293 system. To investigate whether var2CSA binding DBL domains can induce biologically active antibodies recognizing the native var2CSA and blocking the interaction, mice were immunized with the refolded DBL3-X or the HEK293 secreted DBL6-epsilon domains.
Results:
Using the HEK293 expression system, DBL1-X, DBL4-epsilon and DBL6-epsilon were produced at relatively high levels in the culture supernatant, while DBL3-X and DBL5-epsilon were produced at much lower levels. DBL2-X and DBL3-X domains were obtained after refolding of the inclusion bodies produced in E. coli. Importantly, mice antisera raised against the recombinant DBL6-epsilon domain, specifically reacted against the surface of CSA-binding parasites and revealed adhesion blocking activity.
Conclusions:
This is the first report showing inhibitory binding antibodies obtained through a var2CSA recombinant DBL domain immunization protocol. These results support the current strategies using var2CSA as immunogen in the aim of blocking placental sequestration of malaria parasites. This work is a step towards the development of a var2CSA based vaccine that will prevent pregnancy-associated malaria and improve pregnancy outcomes. (Source: BioMed Central)
Dietary sodium manipulation during critical periods in development sensitize adult offspring to amphetamines
This study examined critical periods in development to determine when offspring were most susceptible to dietary sodium manipulation leading to amphetamine sensitization. Wistar dams (n = 6–8/group) were fed chow containing low (0.12% NaCl; LN), normal (1% NaCl; NN), or high sodium (4% NaCl; HN) during the prenatal or early postnatal period (birth to 5 wk). Offspring were fed normal chow thereafter until testing at 6 mo. Body weight (BW), blood pressure (BP), fluid intake, salt preference, response to amphetamine, open field behavior, plasma adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), plasma corticosterone (Cort), and adrenal gland weight were measured. BW was similar for all offspring. Offspring from the prenatal and postnatal HN group had increased BP, NaCl intake, and salt preference and decreased water intake relative to NN offspring. Prenatal HN offspring had greater BP than postnatal HN offspring. In response to amphetamine, both prenatal and postnatal LN and HN offspring had increased locomotor behavior compared with NN offspring. In a novel open field environment, locomotion was also increased in prenatal and postnatal LN and HN offspring compared with NN offspring. ACTH and Cort levels 30 min after restraint stress and adrenal gland weight measurement were greater in LN and HN offspring compared with NN offspring. These results indicate that early life experience with low- and high-sodium diets, during the prenatal or early postnatal period, is a stress that produces long-term changes in responsiveness to amphetamines and to subsequent stressors. (Source: AJP: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology)
Lower uterine artery blood flow and higher endothelin relative to nitric oxide metabolite levels are associated with reductions in birth weight at high altitude
Reduced uteroplacental blood flow is hypothesized to play a key role in altitude-associated fetal growth restriction. It is unknown whether reduced blood flow is a cause or consequence of reduced fetal size. We asked whether determinants of uteroplacental blood flow were altered prior to reduced fetal growth and whether vasoactive and/or angiogenic factors were involved. Women residing at low (LA; 1600 m, n = 18) or high altitude (HA; 3100 m, n = 25) were studied during pregnancy (20, 30, and 36 wk) and 4 mo postpartum (PP) using Doppler ultrasound. In each study, endothelin (ET-1), nitric oxide metabolites (NOx), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) levels were quantified. At HA, birth weights were lower (P < 0.01) and small-for-gestational age was more common (P < 0.05) compared with LA. HA was associated with lower uterine artery (UA) diameter (P < 0.01) and blood flow (P < 0.05). Altitude did not affect ET-1, sFlt-1 or PlGF; however, ET-1/NOx was greater and NOx lower during pregnancy and PP at HA vs. LA. ET-1/NOx was negatively associated with birth weight (20 wk, P < 0.01; 36 wk, P = 0.05) at LA and HA combined. At HA, UA blood flow (30 wk) was positively associated with birth weight (). UA blood flow and ET-1/NOx levels accounted for 45% (20 wk) and 32% (30 wk) of birth weight variation at LA and HA combined, primarily attributed to effects at HA. We concluded that elevated ET-1/NOx and altered determinants of uteroplacental blood flow occur prior to altitude-associated reductions in fetal growth, and therefore, they are likely a cause rather than a consequence of smaller fetal size. (Source: AJP: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology)
Mechanisms of neonatal increase in glomerular filtration rate
To investigate the mechanisms responsible for the neonatal increase in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), renal function studies (whole kidney and micropuncture) were carried out in anesthesized fetal sheep (133–140 days gestation; term = 150 days) and lambs (12–18 days). Fetuses were delivered and placed in a water bath (39.5°C), keeping the umbilical cord moist and intact. Lambs were studied on a thermostatically controlled heating pad. Animals were prepared for either blood flow studies or micropuncture measurements. Expected differences in blood composition and cardiovascular and renal function were observed between fetuses and lambs, and values obtained for most variables were similar to those measured in chronically catheterized unanesthetized animals. Fetal GFR was much lower than that of lambs (0.20 vs. 0.62 ml·min–1·g kidney–1, P < 0.001). Free-flow, stop-flow, and net filtration pressures (NFP) were lower in the fetuses than the lambs (NFP 20.8 vs. 23.8 mmHg, P < 0.001), as was the calculated ultrafiltration coefficient (0.014 vs. 0.022 ml·min–1·g–1·mmHg–1, P < 0.001). Thus, we conclude that rises in both net filtration pressure and the ultrafiltration coefficient contribute to the large increase in GFR between fetal life and ~2 wk after birth. (Source: AJP: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology)
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and transposition of great arteries associated with maternal diabetes and presumed gestational diabetes
Maternal diabetes mellitus affects the foetal heart both structurally and functionally. In early gestation, it has a teratogenic effect causing defects of primary cardiogenesis. In late gestation, it causes a unique form of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. We report an infant of a diabetic mother and an infant where there was presumed gestational diabetes during the pregnancy who presented with combined severe hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and complex transposition of the great arteries. This rare combination of structural and functional cardiac abnormalities reflects the different mechanisms and timings of injury that may occur to the foetal heart in association with maternal diabetes and has not been previously reported. The combination has significant implications regarding medical and surgical management, and necessitates prolonged supportive therapy whilst awaiting regression of the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy followed by delayed arterial switch operation. Conclusion: We describe two infants with the unusual combination of both hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and transposition of the great arteries. One was an infant of a diabetic mother, and the second was associated with presumed gestational diabetes. (Source: Acta Paediatrica)
Preclinical characterization of a (s)-n-(4-cyano-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-3-(3-fluoro, 4-chlorophenoxy)-2-hydroxy-2-methyl-propanamide: a selective androgen receptor modulator for hormonal male contraception.
|
Preclinical Characterization of a (S)-N-(4-Cyano-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-3-(3-fluoro, 4-chlorophenoxy)-2-Hydroxy-2-Methyl-Propanamide: A Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator for Hormonal Male Contraception.
Endocrinology. 2008 Sep 4;
Authors: Jones A, Chen J, Hwang DJ, Miller DD, Dalton JT
The pharmacologic effects of (S)-N-(4-Cyano-3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-3-(3-fluoro, 4-chlorophenoxy)-2-Hydroxy-2-Methyl-Propanamide (S-23) were characterized in male rats as an animal model of hormonal male contraception. S-23 showed high binding affinity (Ki=1.7+/-0.2 nM) and was identified as a full agonist in vitro. In castrated male rats, the ED50 of S-23 in the prostate and levator ani muscle was 0.43 and 0.079 mg/day, respectively. In intact male rats treated for 14 days, S-23 alone suppressed LH levels by greater than 50% at doses greater than 0.1 mg/day, with corresponding decreases in the size of the prostate but increases in the size of levator ani muscle. In intact male rats treated for up to 10 weeks with S-23 and estradiol benzoate (EB; necessary to maintain sexual behavior in rats), S-23 showed biphasic effects on androgenic tissues and spermatogenesis by suppressing serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone. EB alone showed no effect on spermatogenesis. In the EB + S-23 (0.1mg/day) group, 4/6 of animals showed no sperm in the testis and zero pregnancies (0/6) in mating trials. After termination of treatment, infertility was fully reversible, with a 100% pregnancy rate observed after 100 days of recovery. S-23 increased bone mineral density and lean mass, but reduced fat mass in a dose-dependent manner. This is the first study to show that a SARM combined with EB is an effective and reversible regimen for hormonal male contraception in rats. The beneficial effects of S-23 on the muscle, tissue selectivity, and favorable pharmacokinetic properties make it a strong candidate for use in oral male contraception.
PMID: 18772237 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Endocrinology)]]>
Development and characterization of a sv-40 immortalized bovine endometrial stromal cell line.
|
Development and Characterization of a SV-40 Immortalized Bovine Endometrial Stromal Cell Line.
Endocrinology. 2008 Sep 4;
Authors: Krishnaswamy N, Chapdelaine P, Tremblay JP, Fortier MA
In ruminants, Interferon-tau (IFNtau) is the maternal recognition signal inhibiting prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) production by endometrial epithelial cells and stimulating IFN stimulated genes (ISGs) in the stroma. Stromal cells mediate the action of progesterone on epithelial cells during pregnancy. Our working hypothesis is that IFNtau acts as a molecular switch that turns on PGE2 production in endometrial stromal cells while suppressing PGF2alpha production from epithelial cells. In this report, we document immortalization and functional characterization of a bovine stromal cell line from the caruncular region of the endometrium (CSC). Primary stromal cells were immortalized by nucleofection with SV40 Large T antigen (SV40 TAG) and integrase. The resulting cell line CSC, expresses stromal cell specific vimentin, estrogen and progesterone receptors and is amenable for transient transfection. Basal and stimulated production of PGE2 is higher than PGF2alpha and associated with cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expression. Phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and IFNtau up-regulate COX2 and PG production in a dose-dependent manner. When added together, low concentrations of IFNtau inhibit PMA-induced COX2 expression; whereas this inhibition is lost at high concentrations. Expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) is induced by IFNtau at all concentrations studied, but is not modulated by PMA. Since expression of STAT1 does not exhibit the biphasic response to IFNtau, we investigated the p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) pathway using the selective inhibitor SB203580. Inhibition of the p38 MAPK pathway abolishes IFNtau action on PG production. In summary, CSC appears as a good stromal cell model for investigating the molecular mechanisms related to IFNtau action and PG production in the bovine.
PMID: 18772234 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Endocrinology)]]>
Lysophosphatidic acid signaling during embryo development in sheep: involvement in prostaglandin synthesis.
|
Lysophosphatidic acid signaling during embryo development in sheep: involvement in prostaglandin synthesis.
Endocrinology. 2008 Sep 4;
Authors: Liszewska E, Reinaud P, Billon-Denis E, Dubois O, Robin P, Charpigny G
We investigated the lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) pathway during early pregnancy in sheep. LPA was detected in the uteri of early-stages pregnant ewes. Using Q-RTPCR, the expression of autotaxin, the LPA-generating enzyme, was found in the endometrium and conceptus. In the latter autotaxin transcript levels were low on days 12-14 and increased on days 15-16, in parallel with the level of LPA. Autotaxin was localized in the luminal epithelium and superficial glands of the endometrium and in trophectoderm cells of the conceptus. The expression of G protein-coupled receptors for LPA was also examined in the ovine conceptus. LPAR1and LPAR3 transcripts were expressed during early pregnancy and displayed a peak on day 14, whereas the highest level of protein for both receptors was observed at day 17. LPAR1 was localized in cellular membranes and nuclear compartments of the trophectoderm cells whereas LPAR3 was only revealed in membranes. LPA activated phosphorylation of the MAPK ERK(1/2) in ovine trophectoderm derived cells. Moreover, the bioactive lipid increased the proliferation of trophectoderm cells in culture, as shown by thymidine and BrdU incorporation. Furthermore, LPA induced changes to the organization of ss-actin and alpha-tubulin, suggesting a role for it in rearrangement of the cytoskeleton of trophectoderm cells. Because a link had previously been established between prostaglandin and LPA pathways, we analyzed the effect of LPA on prostaglandin synthesis. LPA induced an increase in the release of PGF2alpha and PGE2, with no significant modifications to cPLA2alpha and PTGS2 expression. Taken together, our results suggest a new role for LPA-mediated signaling in the ovine conceptus at the time of implantation.
PMID: 18772233 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
(Source: Endocrinology)]]>
|