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Purpose: To assess associations between sedentary time (ST), physical activity (PA), and cardiovascular health in early childhood. Method: Cross-sectional study including 160 children (age 6.1 y [SD 0.5], 86 boys, 93 maternal body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2, and 73 gestational diabetes) assessed for pulse wave velocity, echocardiography, ultra-high frequency 48–70 MHz vascular ultrasound, and accelerometery. Results: Boys had 385 (SD 53) minutes per day ST, 305 (SD 44) minutes per day light PA, and 81 (SD 22) minutes per day moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA). Girls had 415 (SD 50) minutes per day ST, 283 (SD 40) minutes per day light PA, and 66 (SD 19) minutes per day MVPA. In adjusted analyses, MVPA was inversely associated with resting heart rate (β = −6.6; 95% confidence interval, −12.5 to −0.7) and positively associated with left ventricular mass (β = 6.8; 1.4–12.3), radial intima-media thickness (β = 11.4; 5.4–17.5), brachial intima-media thickness (β = 8.0; 2.0–14.0), and femoral intima-media thickness (β = 1.3; 0.2–2.3). MVPA was inversely associated with body fat percentage (β = −3.4; −6.6 to −0.2), diastolic blood pressure (β = −0.05; −0.8 to −0.1), and femoral (β = −18.1; −32.4 to −0.8) and radial (β = −13.4; −24.0 to −2.9) circumferential wall stress in boys only. ST and pulse wave velocity showed no significant associations. Conclusions: In young at-risk children, MVPA is associated with cardiovascular remodeling, partly in a sex-dependant way, likely representing physiological adaptation, but ST shows no association with cardiovascular health in early childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Pre-diagnostic disturbances in the microbiome-derived metabolome have been associated with an increased risk of diabetes in non-pregnant populations. However, the roles of microbiome-derived metabolites, the end-products of microbial metabolism, in gestational diabetes (GDM) remain understudied. We examined the prospective association of microbiome-derived metabolites in early to mid-pregnancy with GDM risk in a diverse population. METHODS: We conducted a prospective discovery and validation study, including a case-control sample of 91 GDM and 180 non-GDM individuals within the multi-racial/ethnic The Pregnancy Environment and Lifestyle Study (PETALS) as the discovery set, a random sample from the PETALS (42 GDM, 372 non-GDM) as validation set 1, and a case-control sample (35 GDM, 70 non-GDM) from the Gestational Weight Gain and Optimal Wellness randomized controlled trial as validation set 2. We measured untargeted fasting serum metabolomics at gestational weeks (GW) 10-13 and 16-19 by gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS), liquid chromatography (LC)/quadrupole TOF-MS, and hydrophilic interaction LC/quadrupole TOF-MS. GDM was diagnosed using the 3-h, 100-g oral glucose tolerance test according to the Carpenter-Coustan criteria around GW 24-28. RESULTS: Among 1362 annotated compounds, we identified 140 of gut microbiome metabolism origin. Multivariate enrichment analysis illustrated that carbocyclic acids and branched-chain amino acid clusters at GW 10-13 and the unsaturated fatty acids cluster at GW 16-19 were positively associated with GDM risk (FDR

Background: Women with abnormal glucose tolerance during pregnancy are at risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), with higher rates among Hispanics. However, studies on the impact of lifestyle interventions on postpartum CVD profiles are sparse. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a controlled trial among a subsample of Hispanic women with abnormal glucose tolerance participating in Estudió PARTO (Project Aiming to Reduce Type twO diabetes; mean age = 28.2 y, SD: 5.8) who were randomized to a culturally modified Lifestyle intervention (n = 45) or a comparison Health and Wellness intervention (n = 55). Primary endpoints were biomarkers of cardiovascular risk (lipids, C-reactive protein, fetuin-A, and albumin-to-creatinine ratio) and insulin resistance (fasting insulin, glucose, HbA1c, homeostasis model assessment, leptin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and adiponectin) measured at baseline (6-wk postpartum) and 6 and 12 months. Results: In intent-to-treat analyses, there were no significant differences in changes in biomarkers of CVD risk or insulin resistance over the postpartum year. In prespecified sensitivity analyses, women adherent with the Lifestyle Intervention had more favorable improvements in insulin (intervention effect = −4.87, SE: 1.93, P =.01) and HOMA-IR (intervention effect = −1.15, SE: 0.53, P =.03) compared with the Health and Wellness arm. In pooled analyses, regardless of intervention arm, women with higher postpartum sports/exercise had greater increase in HDL-cholesterol (intervention effect = 6.99, SE: 1.72, P =.0001). Conclusions: In this randomized controlled trial among Hispanic women with abnormal glucose tolerance, we did not observe a significant effect on postpartum biomarkers of CVD risk or insulin resistance. Women adherent to the intervention had more favorable changes in insulin and HOMA-IR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) affect a large proportion of pregnancies and represent an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Yet the pathophysiology of APOs is poorly understood, limiting our ability to prevent and treat these conditions. To search for genetic markers of maternal risk for four APOs, we performed multi-ancestry genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for pregnancy loss, gestational length, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia. We clustered participants by their genetic ancestry and focused our analyses on three sub-cohorts with the largest sample sizes: European, African, and Admixed American. Association tests were carried out separately for each sub-cohort and then meta-analyzed together. Two novel loci were significantly associated with an increased risk of pregnancy loss: a cluster of SNPs located downstream of the TRMU gene (top SNP: rs142795512), and the SNP rs62021480 near RGMA. In the GWAS of gestational length we identified two new variants, rs2550487 and rs58548906 near WFDC1 and AC005052.1, respectively. Lastly, three new loci were significantly associated with gestational diabetes (top SNPs: rs72956265, rs10890563, rs79596863), located on or near ZBTB20, GUCY1A2, and RPL7P20, respectively. Fourteen loci previously correlated with preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia were found to be associated with these outcomes as well.

BACKGROUND: Individual adverse social determinants of health are associated with increased risk of diabetes in pregnancy, but the relative influence of neighborhood or community-level social determinants of health is unknown. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine whether living in neighborhoods with greater socioeconomic disadvantage, food deserts, or less walkability was associated with having pregestational diabetes and developing gestational diabetes. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a secondary analysis of the prospective Nulliparous Pregnancy Outcomes Study: Monitoring Mothers-To-Be. Home addresses in the first trimester were geocoded at the census tract level. The exposures (modeled separately) were the following 3 neighborhood-level measures of adverse social determinants of health: (1) socioeconomic disadvantage, defined by the Area Deprivation Index and measured in tertiles from the lowest tertile (ie, least disadvantage [T1]) to the highest (ie, most disadvantage [T3]); (2) food desert, defined by the United States Department of Agriculture Food Access Research Atlas (yes/no by low income and low access criteria); and (3) less walkability, defined by the Environmental Protection Agency National Walkability Index (most walkable score [15.26-20.0] vs less walkable score [

ABSTRACT Objective Design Setting Population Methods Main Outcome Measure Results Conclusions Establish whether pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are associated with a fetal cardiac phenotype that predisposes to arrhythmia; utilising measurements derived from non‐invasive abdominal fetal ECG.Prospective observational study.Three tertiary obstetric units, United Kingdom.Women aged ≥ 16 years with either GDM or uncomplicated pregnancy (control) who were > 20 weeks gestational age.The MonicaAN24 non‐invasive abdominal fetal ECG monitor was fitted for overnight recording.Calculation of the fetal heart rate (FHR) and fetal heart rate variability (HRV) time domain metrics standard deviation of normal‐to‐normal intervals (SDNN), root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) and the PR, QRS, QT intervals was performed. Groups were compared using linear regression models (stratified by sleep state) and adjusted for fetal sex and ethnicity.Ninety‐six participants were included. For HRV in sleep state 1F, SDNN was higher for GDM than control participants 12.56 (10.45–16.62)ms versus 8.58 (5.83–9.73)ms [p = 0.01] [median (IQR)]. There were no differences in SDNN in sleep state 2F. No differences were identified in RMSSD in either sleep states or in the cardiac time intervals. We observed a negative correlation between HRV and body mass index/HbA1c and a positive correlation between FHR and body mass index/HbA1c in sleep states 1F/2F.Alterations of HRV and FHR rate may be associated with a diagnosis of GDM, likely secondary to altered autonomic function in utero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionsThe study aims to explore the relationship between serum uric acid (UA) levels in the first trimester and pregnancy outcomes.The clinical data of 1381 pregnant women who delivered in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital from June 2021 to July 2022 were collected. All patients were categorized into four groups (Q1-Q4) according to quartiles of UA, using the first quartile of UA as the reference group. Logistic regression analysis was used to observe the correlation between UA and pregnancy outcomes. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was drawn to observe the dose-response relationship between UA and pregnancy outcomes.The numbers of GDM patients in Q1-Q4 were 40 (11.70%), 46 (13.49%), 60 (17.29%) and 83 (23.65%), respectively (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that higher quartiles of UA were significantly associated with an increased prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). After adjusting for confounding factors (maternal age, prepregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain, and gestational age), compared with the lowest quartile of UA, the highest quartile of UA had 2.06 times odds of GDM (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.34, 3.18; p = 0.001) in Q4. RCS suggested that the risk of GDM increased slowly until UA levels reached 219.43 µmol/L and then began to increase rapidly afterward (overall p = 0.0037).Increased uric acid concentrations in the first trimester are associated with an increased risk of GDM and gestational hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and insulin resistance (IR) increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to examine the relationship of interstitial glucose assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) at early gestation, and the subsequent development of IR and GDM, and to determine 24-h interstitial glucose centile distributions in women with normal (non-IR and non-GDM) and suboptimal glycemic status (IR and/or GDM). Methods: CGM measurements were taken for 3–10 days at 18–24 weeks' gestation, followed by fasting serum insulin and oral glucose tolerance testing at 24–28 weeks' gestation. IR and GDM were determined by the updated Homeostasis Model Assessment of IR score of ≥ 1.22 and 2013 World Health Organization criteria, respectively. Risks of IR and GDM were estimated using modified Poisson models, and hourly interstitial glucose centiles determined using Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale and Shape. Results: This prospective cohort study involved 167 pregnant women in Singapore, with a mean age of 31.7 years, body mass index of 22.9 kg/m2, and gestation of 20.3 weeks. 25% of women exhibited IR and 18% developed GDM. After confounders adjustment, women with suboptimal glycemic control, indicated by higher mean daily glucose (risk ratio 1.42; 95% confidence interval 1.16, 1.73), glucose management indicator (1.08; 1.03, 1.12), and J-index (1.04; 1.02, 1.06), as well as those with greater glycemic variability, indicated by higher standard deviation (1.69; 1.37, 2.09), coefficient of variation (1.03; 1.00, 1.06), and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (1.4; 1.14, 1.35) derived from CGM in early gestation were associated with higher risks of developing IR in later gestation. These associations were similarly observed for the development of GDM. Centile curves showed that, compared to those with normal glycemic status, women with suboptimal glycemic status had higher glucose levels, with greater fluctuations throughout 24 h. Conclusions: In pregnant women who subsequently developed IR and GDM, interstitial glucose levels assessed by CGM were elevated and varied greatly. This supports the potential use of CGM to screen for glycemic changes early in pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusion Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has been associated with reduced postprandial glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) responses. As pregnancy induces changes in gallbladder motility and bile acids stimulate GLP‐1 secretion, we investigated postprandial gallbladder emptying and GLP‐1 responses in women with GDM.Women with and without GDM underwent two 240‐min mixed meal tests; one during third trimester of pregnancy and one 3–6 months postpartum. We evaluated ultrasonography‐assessed gallbladder emptying, plasma concentrations of glucometabolic hormones including GLP‐1, paracetamol absorption (proxy for gastric emptying) and circulating factors known to affect gallbladder dynamics.Fifteen women with GDM and 15 pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) (baseline median age 31 (interquartile range 29;33) versus 32 (28;33) years, body mass index (BMI) 27.2 (24.7;30.7) versus 28.4 (26.2;31.0) kg/m2, HbA1c 30 (29;32) versus 30 (28;31) mmol/mol) were included. No differences in postprandial gallbladder emptying or GLP‐1 responses were observed between women with and without GDM, neither during pregnancy nor postpartum. Pregnancy increased fasting gallbladder volumes by 69 (30;122)% and 103 (59;156)% and postprandial gallbladder emptying by 77 (28;236)% and 99 (37;190)% compared with postpartum in women with and without GDM, respectively. Postprandial GLP‐1 responses were reduced by 60 (3;82)% and 81 (11;90)% during pregnancy compared with postpartum in women with and without GDM, respectively.Pregnancy‐induced changes in gallbladder motility seem to play no or a limited role in previously reported GDM‐associated reduced postprandial GLP‐1 responses as gallbladder emptying was greater and postprandial GLP‐1 response was lower in pregnancy than postpartum regardless of GDM status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Aims/Introduction Materials and Methods Results Conclusions The relationship between economic disadvantages and the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), as well as its impact on birth outcomes, remains uncertain.From the Taiwan Maternal and Child Health Database, we identified 984,712 pregnant women between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2018. Using propensity score matching, we selected 5,068 pairs of women across four income levels: very low, low, middle and high. We used a multivariable Cox regression model to assess the risk of GDM in these pregnant women and analyzed the birth outcomes.The mean age of the pregnant women was 30.89 years. We found no significant difference in GDM risk among pregnant women with different family income. However, newborns of women with GDM and very low‐income were at higher risk for several adverse conditions, such as small for gestational age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.31), large for gestational age (aOR 1.27, 95% CI 1.08–1.51), hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (aOR 3.19, 95% CI 1.15–8.86), respiratory distress (aOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.14–2. 19), congenital anomalies (aOR 1.32, 95% CI 1.08–1.62), jaundice requiring phototherapy or exchange transfusion (aOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.05–1.24) and so on.This study found that low family income alone was not associated with GDM development. However, for a GDM pregnancy, pregnant women with lower income had worse birth outcomes. Improving maternal health and nutrition among low‐income pregnant women with GDM might be critical to improving birth outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Education during pregnancy is important for the development of the pregnant woman's ability to adapt to change and for a healthy birth. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of education through a diabetes education program on maternal and newborn health in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Materials and methods: In our study, we compared the maternal and neonatal health outcomes of pregnant women who participated in the diabetes education program and were diagnosed with gestational diabetes with the outcomes of pregnant women who did not participate in the diabetes education program and were diagnosed with gestational diabetes. The study included patients who were diagnosed with diabetes between 24and 26 weeks gestation at a tertiary education and research hospital and who underwent a 75-gram OGTT test. Age, BMI, parity, method of delivery, weight gain during pregnancy, newborn birth weight, gestational age and Apgar scores were compared. Results: The study included 119 patients and analyzed maternal-neonatal outcomes. There were no statistically significant differences in age (33 ± 5.7 versus 31 ± 5.2), body mass index (BMI) (32.2 vs. 31.2), gravidity, parity, number of miscarriages, mode of delivery, family history of diabetes, smoking, prenatal corticosteroid use, and gestational age at delivery. The HbA1c value (p: 0.013), the total weight gain during pregnancy (p: 0.015), the need for insulin treatment (p: 0.002), and the birth weight (0.005) were significantly higher in the group without diabetes education. Conclusion: In our study, diabetic school education was associated with lower HbA1c levels, less weight gain and less need for insulin therapy. When the results were categorized by insulin use, it was found that in patients using insulin, those who received diabetic school education had fewer macrosomic fetuses, whereas in patients not using insulin, those who received diabetic school education had lower maternal weight gain during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes and pregnancy studies have found better outcomes when interventions were developed with consumer (individuals with lived experience of diabetes) and community involvement. When consumers are central to development and delivery of interventions, study participants have better engagement and outcomes, particularly for individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) and/or lower socio-economic backgrounds. Our study aims to examine the scope of consumer and community involvement (CCI) in the construction and implementation of pre-pregnancy care (PPC) interventions and discuss a framework for consumer-lead intervention development. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted, examining 3 electronic databases. A meta synthesis analysis of tabulated data summarized in a literature matrix was undertaken with a phenomenological approach to develop a Pre-Pregnancy Care CCI-Driven Intervention Framework. Results: Overall, 4642 papers were identified, with 29 meeting inclusion criteria. The meta-synthesis and literature matrix identified several common themes across previous studies. These were: barriers to accessing (PPC) such as negativity and stigma in care from behaviours, attitudes and perceptions of HCPs; limited appointment availability not aligning with work and family commitments; fear of losing a "normal" pregnancy journey; awareness of risk but unwillingness to discuss if consumers have not established trust with HCPs; inaccessibility to CALD appropriate PPC and contraception; and digitisation of PPC information resources including peer support and social media. From these results, a PPC Consumer-Driven Intervention Framework for Women with Pregestational Diabetes was developed with recommendations. Conclusion: Consumers have been under-involved in the majority of previous developments and implementation of interventions for women with diabetes and pregnancy, and their representation as stakeholders in interventions is paramount to the longevity of intervention outcomes. To assist community involvement in diabetes pregnancy intervention design and delivery we created a new framework, for improving clinical and social outcomes in healthcare, empowering relationships between HCPs and consumers, and highlighting the value of lived experience and women-centred care for increased community engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The oral safety of Lithocarpus litseifolius (Hance) Chun (sweet tea) that has antihyperglycemic potential has been verified. However, its specific application and action mechanism in the treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are still unclear. Methods: Total water–soluble flavonoids extracted from L. litseifolius (Hance) Chun (sweet tea) were applied to GDM mice. The glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and histopathology of the GDM mice were evaluated through an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), an intraperitoneal insulin tolerance test (IPITT), and histochemistry. The possible mechanism was analysed through network pharmacology. Results: Compared with those in GDM model mice (MD group), blood glucose levels indicating both glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were improved in GDM mice treated with total water–soluble flavonoids (LLHC group) but were greater than those in normal control mice (NC group). The number of apoptotic liver cells was significantly lower in the LLHC group than in the MD group, but greater than that in the NC group. Multiple targets and signalling pathways that were acted by eight main active ingredients were involved in the process by which total water–soluble flavonoids protect against GDM. The main mechanism involved quercetin (10 targets) and luteolin (8 targets), which acted on the effector target of GAA through six main signalling pathways around the AKT1 core axis. Conclusion: Oral administration of total water–soluble flavonoids can alleviate glucose intolerance and insulin resistance via the inhibition of liver cell apoptosis. The main active ingredients act on GAA through the signalling pathways of the AKT1 core axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, nutrition has become increasingly important in treating and managing gestational diabetes mellitus. The Health Belief Model (HBM) is a conceptual framework in health behavior research used in some medical research. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of glycemic index training based on the HBM on metabolic indicators and pregnant women's health-related quality of life. In this open-label, parallel-controlled randomized trial, 90 pregnant women from primary health centers in Iran were recruited and randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group, using a block randomization method with a block size of six. The intervention group underwent 12 weeks of nutritional education on the glycemic index and load of foodstuff. The control group only received routine health care. Valid and reliable questionnaires included demographic and prenatal information, physical activity, three days of food records, quality of life (SF-12), and HBM constructs. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and end of the study, to assess fasting blood glucose (FBS), fasting insulin, hs-CRP, and lipids. Eighty-four pregnant women with an age mean of 30.12 ± 4.35 completed 12 weeks of intervention. At baseline, there were no significant differences between groups in the HBM subscales (P > 0.05). However, within the intervention group, there was an increase in perceived susceptibilities (mean change 1.45 ± 4.21; P = 0.03) and cue to action (mean change: 1.22 ± 3.38; P = 0.02). In the adjusted model, the General Health subscale of Quality of Life showed a significant increase in the comparison between groups (mean change 13.69 ± 29.83 vs. 0.00 ± 29.58; P = 0.04). Additionally, the adjusted model revealed a notable difference between the groups in serum hs-CRP level, (mean change -0.877 ± 3.47 vs. -0.067 ± 3.40; P = 0.01) and triglyceride level (mean change − 55.24 ± 111.21 vs. 40.92 ± 142.01; P = 0.001). However, in the adjusted model, the total cholesterol levels increased between groups (mean change 22.75 ± 66.17 vs. 30.12 ± 61.33; P = 0.01) at the end of the study. There was no significant difference in glycemic indices (P > 0.05). Participation in a nutrition education program might positively impact nutritional beliefs, behaviors, and some biochemical indicators among pregnant women. Future studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-ups are warranted. Trial registration number: IRCTID: IRCT20190227042858N1. Registration date: 2019-07-18. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by excess liver fat, is common in women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). While breastfeeding improves postpartum lipid levels, its impact on NAFLD in these women is not well studied. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the duration and intensity of breastfeeding and the amount of liver fat and prevalence of NAFLD in women with previous GDM at approximately 1 year postpartum. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a university hospital in Bangkok, Thailand between November 2021 and February 2024. Overall, 130 women who had experienced GDM in their most recent pregnancy were followed up for 1 year postpartum. We collected data on breastfeeding practices and quantified liver fat using controlled attenuation parameters (CAPs) during transient elastography. NAFLD was defined as a CAP of ≥ 302 dB/m. Women were divided into three groups according to the duration and intensity of breastfeeding: group 1 (breastfeeding for < 6 months), group 2 (breastfeeding for ≥ 6 months and exclusive breastfeeding [EBF] for < 6 months), and group 3 (breastfeeding for ≥ 6 months and EBF for 6 months). Results: Overall, 57 (43.8%), 26 (20.0%), and 47 (36.2%) participants were categorized into groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Group 3 had the lowest CAPs, followed by groups 2 and 1. The median values (interquartile ranges) of the CAPs were 219.0 (189.0–271.0) dB/m, 257.5 (205.3–317.3) dB/m, and 279.0 (191.5–324.0) dB/m for groups 3, 2, and 1, respectively (p = 0.034). NAFLD prevalence was significantly lower in group 3 compared to groups 2 and 1 (19.1% vs. 38.5% vs. 43.9%, respectively; p = 0.026). Multivariate analysis showed that breastfeeding for ≥ 6 months and EBF for 6 months reduced the risk of NAFLD, with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.34 (95% confidence interval 0.14, 0.95). Conclusions: Breastfeeding for ≥ 6 months, particularly EBF for the first 6 months, may offer a practical strategy to reduce the risk of NAFLD in women with prior GDM. Trial registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry: Registration no. TCTR20211027008. Date of registration: October 27, 2021. Date of initial participant enrollment: November 1, 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Given the high prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus and its significant impact on maternal and neonatal health, identifying reliable biomarkers for prediction and diagnosis is essential. The increased incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus among patients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy suggests a possible association between serum total bile acid levels and gestational diabetes mellitus. This study evaluated the relationship between total bile acid levels and gestational diabetes mellitus incidence. Methods: A systematic search was performed on February 19, 2024, for studies examining the association between total bile acid levels and gestational diabetes mellitus incidence in both the general pregnant population and patients diagnosed with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Meta-analyses were conducted to compare pooled total bile acid levels between patients with and without gestational diabetes mellitus, as well as to assess gestational diabetes mellitus prevalence in patients with mild (10 ≤ total bile acid < 40 µmol/L) vs. moderate-to-severe intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (total bile acid ≥ 40 µmol/L). Results: 15 observational studies involving 7,238 pregnant women were systematically reviewed. Our meta-analysis found significantly higher serum total bile acid levels in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus compared to controls in the general population (Hedge's g = 0.29 [0.03,0.54]). However, subgroup analysis indicated that total bile acid levels were only significantly higher in patients measured earlier in pregnancy, before the gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis, compared to healthy controls (Hedge's g = 0.48 [0.33,0.64]), while no significant difference in total bile acid levels was observed when measurements were taken after the gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis (Hedge's g = 0.00 [-0.26,0.27]). Additionally, we found that the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus was significantly lower in patients with mild intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy compared to those with moderate-to-severe intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (Log odds ratio=-0.56 [-0.95,-0.17]). Conclusions: This study highlights a complex relationship between serum total bile acid levels and gestational diabetes mellitus incidence, influenced by the timing of measurement. Elevated total bile acid levels early in pregnancy may predict gestational diabetes mellitus, but its diagnostic value may decline later in pregnancy. Trial registration: The review protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on 3/3/2024 under CRD42024516164. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helicobacter pylori is a prevalent infection that may complicate pregnancy, but evidence remains limited, controversial and may not apply to all pregnant women. Objective: This study aims to evaluate whether Helicobacter pylori is a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes and to identify vulnerable subpopulations. Study design: Multiplex serology was utilized to measure blood levels of immunoglobulin G against eight Helicobacter pylori antigens in 1372 pregnant women from three European birth cohorts: BiB (United Kingdom), Rhea (Greece) and INMA (Spain). Outcomes of interest included gestational diabetes mellitus, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm birth and small for gestational age neonates, as well as prenatal anxiety and depression. Adjusted logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between Helicobacter pylori seropositivity (overall and by antigen) and antigen specific antibody levels with the outcomes. We examined effect modification of the associations by ethnicity. Results: Helicobacter pylori seropositivity was detected in 18.8% (258/1372) of pregnant women. Preeclampsia was the least common outcome (26/830). Helicobacter pylori seropositivity was associated with the development of two or more adverse pregnancy outcomes (gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, small gestational age and preeclampsia) [OR:1.32 (95% CI: 1.06–1.65), p-value: 0.01], especially in women with high antibody levels to OMP antigen [OR: 2.12 (95% CI: 1.62–2.76), p-value: 0.001]. Women with high antibody levels to Helicobacter pylori antigens GroEL and NapA were more likely to develop preeclampsia [OR: 2.34 (95% CI: 1.10–8.82), p-value: 0.03; OR: 4.09 (95% CI: 1.4-11.93), p-value 0.01)]. Helicobacter pylori seropositivity increased the odds of developing any hypertensive disorder during pregnancy among women of western ethnicity (948/1372) [OR:3.35 (95% CI: 1.29–8.74), p-value 0.03]. Conclusion: Our study suggests that Helicobacter pylori seropositivity is a risk factor for multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes and particularly in women of western origin for hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Moreover, pathogen specific characteristics reflected in the antibody responses against OMP, GroEL and NapA seem to determine disease associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Risk factors for influenza complications in women are poorly understood. We examined the association between pregnancy outcomes and risk of influenza hospitalization up to three decades later. Methods: We analyzed a cohort of 1,421,531 pregnant women who delivered in Quebec, Canada between 1989 and 2021. Patients were followed over time beginning at the first delivery. The main exposure measures included obstetric complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth. The main outcome was influenza hospitalization up to 32 years later. We used adjusted Cox regression models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between obstetric complications and risk of influenza hospitalization following pregnancy. Results: A total of 4,016 women were hospitalized for influenza during 32 years of follow-up. Influenza hospitalization was more frequent among women with pregnancy complications than women without complications (18.0 vs 14.1 per 100,000 person-years). Compared with no pregnancy complication, women with gestational diabetes (HR 1.48, 95% CI 1.30–1.69), preeclampsia (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.28–1.65), placental abruption (HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.12–1.66), preterm birth (HR 1.40, 95% CI 1.27–1.55), cesarean section (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.13–1.31), and severe maternal morbidity (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.22–1.68) had a greater risk of influenza hospitalization later in life. These pregnancy outcomes were associated with severe influenza infections requiring critical care. Conclusions: Women with pregnancy complications have an elevated risk of severe influenza complications later in life and have potential to benefit from seasonal vaccination to prevent influenza hospitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Aim Methods Results Conclusion To characterize the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) and explore their proteomic cargo in healthy pregnant women compared to those with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and periodontitis.One‐hundred and four pregnant women were recruited at 24–30 gestation weeks. GDM was diagnosed by an oral glucose tolerance test. GCF and plasma samples were obtained to isolate EVs and characterized by nanoparticle tracking, immunoassays, electron microscopy and mass spectrometry.Of the recruits,17.3% women were healthy, 50% had periodontitis and 32.7% had both GDM and periodontitis. Probing depth, clinical attachment loss and bleeding on probing were more severe in GDM and periodontitis pregnancies (p < 0.0001). Additionally, this group showed an increase concentration of total, small and large GCF‐EVs (p = 0.0015, p = 0.0011 and p = 0.0008, respectively), with decreased expression of CD9, CD81 and CD81/CD63 ratio (p = 0.0461, p = 0.0164 and p = 0.0005, respectively). No differences were observed in plasmatic EVs concentration or markers expression. Proteomic analysis of GCF‐EVs showed peptides of both host and bacterial origin. Gene ontology analysis revealed that proteins of GCF‐EVs participate in immune inflammatory responses, glucose metabolism and insulin response mechanisms.GCF‐EVs were increased in both GDM and periodontitis, and their proteomic cargo suggest their involvement in immune inflammatory response, glucose metabolism and insulin pathways during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to use anthropometric measurements (age, BMI, and subcutaneous fat) in conjunction with biochemical parameters (sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), fasting glucose, serum insulin, and total cholesterol) to predict the probability of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the first trimester.The study enrolled 48 pregnant women with GDM and 64 high-risk pregnant women without GDM. During the first-trimester examination, maternal blood samples were collected to measure SHBG, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, and total cholesterol levels. Regression model analysis was used to examine the variables that showed statistically significant differences between the groups and were independent predictors of GDM. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was employed to determine the risk of developing GDM based on cut-off values.The levels of SHBG, HOMA-IR, serum insulin, fasting glucose, and total cholesterol were identified as significant independent markers for predicting GDM. Meanwhile, age, body mass index, and subcutaneous fat values were found to be non-independent predictors of GDM. The areas under the ROC curve were calculated to determine the predictive accuracy of total cholesterol, HOMA-IR, SHBG, and subcutaneous fat for developing into GDM, and were 0.869, 0.977, 0.868, and 0.822 respectively. The sensitivities for a false positive rate of 5 % for predicting GDM were 68.7 , 91.67, 91.7, and 97.9 % for total cholesterol, HOMA-IR, SHBG, and subcutaneous fat, respectively.The independent predictors for the subsequent development of GDM in high-risk pregnancies are HOMA-IR, SHBG, Total cholesterol, and subcutaneous fat (SC) levels. These parameters can be used to create a regression model to predict the occurrence of GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ethiopia is one of the countries where persistently high neonatal and maternal mortalities are reported. Preterm prelabor rupture of membrane (PPROM) plays an important contribution to these high mortalities. However, there is a paucity of comprehensive evidence about the epidemiology of PPROM in Ethiopia. Therefore, this systematic review was conducted to assess the pooled prevalence and determinants of PPROM among pregnant women in Ethiopia. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA guideline. Relevant literatures were searched on African Journals Online (AJOL), PubMed, Scopus, Epistemonikos, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and gray literature. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA 17 software. The random effect meta-analysis model was employed to summarize the pooled estimates. Heterogeneity between included studies was evaluated using I2 statistic. Egger's regression test and Begg's correlation test were employed to assess publication bias, in conjunction with funnel plot. Besides, the non-parametric trim-and-fill analysis, sensitivity analysis, subgroup analysis and meta-regression were also performed. Results: A total of 13 original studies with 24,386 participants were considered in this systematic review. The pooled prevalence of PPROM was 6.58% (95% CI: 5.36, 7.79). Urinary tract infection (OR: 3.44; 95% CI: 1.81, 6.53), abnormal vaginal discharge (OR: 4.78; 95% CI: 2.85, 8.01), vaginal bleeding (OR: 2.04; 95% CI: 1.03, 4.06), history of PROM (OR: 4.64; 95% CI: 2.71, 7.95), history of abortion (OR: 3.06; 95% CI: 1.71, 5.46), malnutrition (OR: 5.24; 95% CI: 2.63, 10.44), anemia (OR: 3.97; 95% CI: 2.01, 7.85) and gestational diabetes (OR: 5.08; 95% CI: 1.93, 13.36) were significantly associated with PPROM. Conclusion: This meta-analysis found a high prevalence of PPROM in Ethiopia. Urinary tract infection, abnormal vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, history of PROM, history of abortion, malnutrition, anemia and gestational diabetes were risk factors for PPROM. Prevention and control of antenatal infections and malnutrition are highly recommended to reduce the magnitude of PPROM in Ethiopia. Additionally, healthcare providers should emphasize the identified risk factors. Protocol registration number: CRD42024536647. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Material and Methods Results Conclusions Optimal counseling of women for vaginal breech birth requires consideration of both established and emerging risk factors for adverse perinatal outcomes. Currently, rising prevalences of maternal obesity and impaired glucose tolerance challenge obstetric care. We aimed to investigate the effects of these parameters on the outcome of vaginal breech birth to improve counseling practices.A total of 361 women (without previous vaginal births) attending vaginal birth of a singleton fetus in breech presesntation between 01/2015 and 11/2021 were included in this retrospective single‐center study. Data were derived from the hospital data base. We analyzed the effect of the maternal body mass index (BMI) at birth (compared to pre‐pregnancy BMI), excessive weight gain, gestational diabetes, and neonatal birthweight on obstetrical and neonatal short‐term outcomes (intrapartum cesarean delivery, performance of obstetric maneuvers (Løvset‐, Bracht‐, Veit‐Smellie maneuver and Bickenbach's arm delivery), admission to the neonatal unit, Apgar score after 5 minutes <7, and arterial cord pH‐value <7.10). Multivariable logistic regression was used for analysis and adjustment of variables.Overall, 246 women (68.1%) had a successful vaginal birth. Intrapartum cesarean delivery (n = 115/361; 31.9%) was independently associated with maternal BMI at birth (p = 0.0283, aOR = 1.87 (1.19–3.97)) if birthweight was ≥3800 g. The rate of intrapartum cesarean delivery was also higher in women with gestational diabetes (p = 0.0030, aOR = 10.83 (2.41‐60.84)). A significantly higher risk of neonatal acidosis (arterial pH‐value <7.10) was observed in women with BMI at birth ≥30 kg/m2 (p = 0.0345, aOR = 1.84 (1.04–3.22)) without affecting other outcomes. Pre‐pregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain and BMI‐gain did not significantly affect the obstetrical and neonatal birth outcomes.When neonatal birthweight is ≥3800 g, maternal BMI at birth (p = 0.0283; aOR = 1.87 (1.19–3.97)) is independently associated with the rate of intrapartum cesarean delivery. However, pre‐pregnancy BMI and BMI‐gain during pregnancy were not associated with the need for intrapartum cesarean delivery or other adverse outcomes. Consequently, BMI at the time of birth could be more informative than pre‐pregnancy BMI and may improve counseling of women attempting vaginal breech birth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of Bariatric Surgery (BS) on maternal and neonatal outcomes among pregnant women is not fully understood, especially in comparison to different weight categories. The primary aim of this study is to assess the factors associated to women who have undergone BS. The study also investigates the maternal and neonatal outcomes amongst this group in comparison to the three Body Mass Index (BMI) groups (women with obesity, overweight and normal weight). A 12-month population-based retrospective study was conducted using registry data from the PEARL-Peristat Study at the Women's Wellness and Research Center (WWRC) in Qatar from January 1, 2017, through December 31, 2017. Both univariate and multivariable regression analyses were employed to scrutinize risk factors and maternal and neonatal outcomes. The study included 6212 parturient women, of which 315 had a history of BS, while 5897 with no BS history. Qatari women, aged 35 and higher, with parity > 1, diabetes, and hypertension were more likely to be in the post-BS group. Women in the post-BS group were found to be more likely to have a cesarean delivery (37.5% vs. 24%, Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) = 1.59, CI 1.18–2.14), preterm babies (10% vs. 7%, aOR = 1.66, CI 1.06–2.59), and stillbirth (1.6% vs. 0.4%, aOR = 4.53, CI 1.33–15.50) compared to the normal weight women group. Moreover, post-BS women had a higher risk of low-birth-weight neonates than women with obesity (15% vs. 8%, aOR = 1.77, CI 1.153–2.73), overweight (15% vs. 7%, aOR = 1.63, CI 1.09–2.43), and normal weight (15% vs. 8%, aOR = 1.838, CI 1.23–2.75). Finally, women in the post-BS group were more likely to have low-birth-weight neonates amongst term babies than women with obesity and overweight. Pregnancies with post-BS should be considered a high-risk group for certain medical outcomes and should be monitored closely. These findings may guide the future clinical decisions of antenatal and postnatal follow-up for post-BS women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common metabolic disorder in pregnancy and later is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders. Consistent and evidence based postnatal care is key to improving maternal long-term health. We therefore aimed to review and compare recommendations of national and international clinical practice guidelines (CPG) for postnatal care after GDM and identify any evidence gaps in recommendations needing further research. Methods: We searched five databases and forty professional organization websites for CPGs providing recommendations for postnatal care after GDM. CPGs which had full versions in English, endorsed, prepared, or authorized by a professional body, and published between 2013 and 2023 were eligible for inclusion. Two reviewers independently screened the articles, extracted the recommendations, and appraised the included CPGs using the Appraisal of Guidelines, Research, and Evaluation (AGREE) II tool. Results: Twenty-six CPGs from 22 countries were included. Twelve CPGs (46%) were appraised as low quality with the lowest scoring domains being rigor of development and editorial independence. We found little high certainty evidence for most recommendations and few recommendations were made for maternal mental health and postpartum metabolic screening. Evidence gaps pertained to postpartum glucose screening, including frequency, tests, and ways to improve uptake, evaluation of effective uptake of lifestyle interventions, and ongoing long-term follow up care. Conclusions: Most of the postnatal care recommendations in GDM guidelines are not based on high certainty evidence. Further efforts are needed to improve the global evidence base for postnatal care after GDM to improve long-term maternal health. Protocol Registration: This review was registered in PROSEPRO (CRD42023454900). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication characterized by insulin resistance. A link has been suggested between insulin resistance and breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in women. Hence, women with previous GDM may be at increased risk of developing breast cancer, yet, the existing evidence is conflicting. This study explored the association between GDM and incident breast cancer, including age at cancer diagnosis. Additionally, we investigated the potential impact of severity of insulin resistance during pregnancy and of subsequent diabetes development on the breast cancer risk. Methods: We conducted a nationwide, register-based cohort study including all women giving birth in Denmark from 1997 to 2018. We defined GDM and breast cancer based on ICD-10 codes. Premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer was pragmatically defined as age at outcome < 50 years and ≥ 50 years, respectively. A proxy for severity of insulin resistance during pregnancy was based on insulin treatment; subsequent diabetes was defined as presence of ICD-10 codes and/or antidiabetic medication after pregnancy. The statistical analyses included Cox regression, logistic regression and t-test. Results: Of 708,121 women, 3.4% had GDM. The median follow-up period was 11.9 years (range 0-21.9). The overall breast cancer risk was comparable in women with and without previous GDM (adjusted hazard ratio 0.96 [95% CI 0.83–1.12]). Premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer risk also did not differ; however, women with previous GDM had a breast cancer diagnosis at younger age (42.6 vs. 43.5 years, p-value 0.01). All-cause mortality was similar regardless of GDM history. Severity of insulin resistance during pregnancy and subsequent diabetes did not affect breast cancer risk. Conclusions: This large, population-based cohort study showed no higher risk of incident breast cancer in women with previous GDM compared to women without previous GDM after a median of almost 12 years of follow-up. This was evident irrespective of menopausal state. The breast cancer risk was not influenced by the severity of insulin resistance during pregnancy and by subsequent diabetes development. Regardless of GDM history, attention towards prevention, early detection and treatment of breast cancer should be prioritized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy disorder associated with short‐ and long‐term adverse outcomes in both mothers and infants. The current clinical test of blood glucose levels late in the second trimester is inadequate for early detection of GDM. Here we show the utility of Raman spectroscopy (RS) for rapid and highly sensitive maternal metabolome screening for GDM in the first trimester. Key metabolites, including phospholipids, carbohydrates, and major amino acids, were identified with RS and validated with mass spectrometry, enabling insights into associated metabolic pathway enrichment. Using classical machine learning (ML) approaches, we showed the performance of the RS metabolic model (cross‐validation AUC 0.97) surpassed that achieved with patients' clinical data alone (cross‐validation AUC 0.59) or prior studies with single biomarkers. Further, we analyzed novel proteins and identified fetuin‐A as a promising candidate for early GDM prediction. A correlation analysis showed a moderate to strong correlation between multiple metabolites and proteins, suggesting a combined protein‐metabolic analysis integrated with ML would enable a powerful screening platform for first trimester diagnosis. Our study underscores RS metabolic profiling as a cost‐effective tool that can be integrated into the current clinical workflow for accurate risk stratification of GDM and to improve both maternal and neonatal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy, typically diagnosed in the second or third trimester. Factors such as advanced maternal age, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to its prevalence. The pathophysiology involves insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, gluconeogenesis, adipose tissue dysfunction, gut microbiota dysbiosis and oxidative stress. GDM is associated with maternal and neonatal complications, both short-term and long-term. Managing GDM requires interventions such as medication, dietary adjustments and regular physical activity. However, early detection in low-risk populations remains challenging. The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) is the gold standard for diagnosis but is limited by its inconvenience and reliance on multiple blood samples. The present review focuses on novel biomarkers for early and accurate GDM diagnosis. It discusses emerging biomarkers such as vitamin D, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, preptin, angiopoietin-like protein 8, adiponectin, chemerin, omentin-1, leptin, Interleukin-6 (IL-6), homocysteine, C-peptide, irisin, adropin, nesfatin-1, Afamin, fetuin A, amylin, galectin, osteocalcin, resistin, visfatin and Fatty Acid-binding Protein 4 (FABP4). The review explores the pathophysiology of these biomarkers in GDM and presents preliminary study findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the best method for measuring the fetal pancreas, provide nomograms and evaluate the effect of GDM on it. A total of 271 singleton fetuses (17–36 weeks) were included in this study. Measurements of pancreatic parameters established reference ranges. Repeatability and consistency analyzed. GDM impact on fetal pancreatic growth assessed. Measurements of fetal pancreatic parameters fell within the 95 % confidence interval when performed by the same or different physicians. Pancreatic midline longitudinal axis demonstrated the best intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and follow by the pancreatic circumference. The successful display rate and measured parameters of the integral fetal pancreas achieved 90.3 %. Pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference increased with gestational age, with significant differences observed among fetuses at different gestational ages (F=2060 and F=2264, p<0.05). Pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference in normal fetuses from 17 to 36 weeks of gestation were positively correlated with gestational age and abdominal circumference. Poorly controlled GDM fetuses exhibited significantly larger pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference compared to the normal group fetuses (Z-values were −3.82 and −3.77, both p<0.01), while no significant differences were found between well-controlled GDM group fetuses and normal group fetuses (Z-values were −0.59 and −0.042, both p>0.05). Ultrasound method using anatomical landmarks to measure the fetal pancreatic midline longitudinal axis and circumference is reliable. Pancreatic measurements increase with gestational age. Poorly controlled gestational diabetes can lead to enlargement of the fetal pancreas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the performance of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-measured glycemic metrics in predicting development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and select perinatal complications. Research Methods: In a prospective observational study, CGM data were collected from 760 pregnant females throughout gestation after study enrollment. GDM was diagnosed using the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24–34 weeks of gestation. Predictive models were built using logistic and elastic net regression. Predictive performance was assessed by the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (AUROC) curve. Results: The AUROCs of using second trimester percent time >140 mg/dL (TA140) and week 13–14 TA140 in predicting GDM were 0.81 and 0.74, respectively. The AUROCs for predicting large-for-gestational-age (LGA) births and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) using second trimester TA140 were both 0.58. When matching the specificity of OGTT, a model using TA140 in weeks 13–14 achieved similar sensitivity to OGTT in predicting HDP (13% vs. 10%, respectively) and LGA (6% for both methods). Elastic net also demonstrated similar AUROC and diagnostic performance with no meaningful improvement by using multiple predictors. Conclusion: CGM-measured hyperglycemic metrics such as TA140 predicted GDM with high AUROCs as early as 13–14 weeks of gestation. These metrics were also similar statistically to the OGTT at 24–34 weeks in predicting perinatal complications, although sensitivity was low for both. CGM could potentially be used as an early screening tool for elevated hyperglycemia during gestation, which could be used in addition to or instead of the OGTT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Cardiovascular disease risk can exist in utero, influenced by maternal health factors. This study evaluates maternal characteristics and biochemical markers that correlate with the fetal intima–media thickness (IMT), aiming to identify interventions that could minimize prenatal influences on later cardiovascular disease. Methods: In this observational study approved by the Institutional Review Board at The Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic of the Timisoara Municipal Emergency Hospital, we recruited pregnant women aged 15–40 years, divided into groups based on their lipid profiles and gestational diabetes risk. The data collection had, as its main focus, ultrasound measurements, along with demographic, clinical, and biochemical parameters. The IMT of the fetal abdominal aorta was measured at 28 weeks of gestation. Results: Notable differences were observed in the TNF-alpha levels (8.66 ± 3.87 pg/mL vs. 4.96 ± 3.37 pg/mL), hsCRP levels (0.94 ± 0.46 mg/L vs. 0.60 ± 0.52 mg/L), and the area under the curve (AUC) for hsCRP at 0.738 with a sensitivity of 84.41% and specificity of 79.01%. Compound score 2, integrating inflammatory markers and lipid profiles, exhibited a good diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.789) with a sensitivity of 86.35% and specificity of 81.42%. A regression analysis indicated strong associations of TNF-alpha and hsCRP with an increased fetal IMT, suggesting potential early markers of cardiovascular risk, presenting hazard ratios (HRs) of 2.21 (95% CI: 1.15–5.28) and 2.87 (95% CI: 1.11–4.23), respectively, both with p-values of less than 0.0001. Compound score 2 further indicated an increased risk (HR = 4.27; 95% CI: 1.19–8.32). Conclusions: Statistically significant correlations were found between an increased fetal IMT and elevated maternal inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha and hsCRP), suggesting that these could serve as early indicators of cardiovascular risk. This study supports the potential for targeted prenatal interventions to reduce cardiovascular risk factors from the fetal stage, emphasizing the importance of monitoring inflammatory markers in pregnant women at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minipuberty is the second phase of physiological activation of the reproductive axis, playing a role in the postnatal development of sexual organs. The course of female minipuberty was found to be affected by low maternal vitamin D status and hypothyroidism during pregnancy. The aim of the current study was to assess the hormonal profile and the size of sexual organs in daughters of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus. The study included three matched groups of infant girls: daughters of healthy women without metabolic disorders during pregnancy (group 1), daughters of women with poorly controlled gestational diabetes mellitus (group 2), and daughters of women with gestational diabetes mellitus adequately controlled during pregnancy (group 3). Urinary levels of gonadotropins, salivary levels of estradiol, testosterone, DHEA-S and progesterone, ovarian volume, uterine length and breast diameter were measured from postnatal month 1 to postnatal month 18. Concentrations of FSH, LH and estradiol were higher, while concentration of progesterone was lower in group 2 than in the remaining groups. There were no between-group differences in concentrations of testosterone and DHEA-S. Levels of LH, FSH, estradiol and progesterone correlated with maternal whole-blood levels of glycated hemoglobin. Group 2 was also characterized by the longest detection periods for LH and estradiol. Ovarian volume, uterine length and breast diameter were greater in group 1 than in the remaining two groups. Over the entire observation period, there were no differences in hormone levels and sizes of the sexual organs between groups 1 and 3. The obtained results suggest that poorly controlled, but not well controlled, gestational diabetes mellitus affects the course of female minipuberty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy with an increasing prevalence worldwide. Early prediction of GDM and its associated adverse outcomes is crucial for timely intervention and improved maternal and fetal health. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of contemporary evidence on biomarkers, focusing on their potential to predict the development of GDM and serve as predictors of maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes in women with GDM. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed database using relevant terms. Original research articles published in English between 1 January 2015, and 30 June 2024, were included. A two-stage screening process was employed to identify studies on biomarkers for GDM diagnosis and prognosis and to evaluate the evidence for each biomarker's diagnostic performance and its potential prognostic correlation with GDM. Various biochemical markers, including adipokines, inflammatory markers, insulin resistance markers, glycemic markers, lipid profile markers, placenta-derived markers, and other related markers, have shown promise in identifying women at risk of developing GDM and predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes. Several promising markers with high predictive performance were identified. However, no single biomarker has demonstrated sufficient accuracy to replace the current diagnostic criteria for GDM. The complexity of multiple pathways in GDM pathogenesis highlights the need for a multi-marker approach to improve risk stratification and guide personalized management strategies. While significant progress has been made in GDM biomarker research, further studies are required to refine and validate these markers for clinical use and to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to GDM prediction and management that can improve maternal and child health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational diabetes (GD) is a metabolic disorder characterized by glucose intolerance during pregnancy, significantly impacting maternal and fetal health. Its global prevalence is approximately 14%, with risk factors including obesity, family history of diabetes, advanced maternal age, and ethnicity, which are linked to cellular and molecular disruptions in glucose regulation and insulin resistance. GD is associated with short- and long-term complications for both the mother and the newborn. For mothers, GD increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. In the offspring, exposure to GD in utero predisposes them to obesity, glucose intolerance, and metabolic disorders later in life. This review aims to elucidate the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying GD to inform the development of effective therapeutic strategies. A systematic review was conducted using medical subject headings (MeSH) terms related to GD's cellular and molecular pathophysiology. Inclusion criteria encompassed original studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses focusing on GD's impact on maternal and fetal health, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data extraction captured study characteristics, maternal and fetal outcomes, key findings, and conclusions. GD disrupts insulin signaling pathways, leading to impaired glucose uptake and insulin resistance. Mitochondrial dysfunction reduces ATP production and increases reactive oxygen species, exacerbating oxidative stress. Hormonal influences, chronic inflammation, and dysregulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway further impair insulin signaling. Gut microbiota alterations, gene expression, and epigenetic modifications play significant roles in GD. Ferroptosis and placental dysfunction primarily contribute to intrauterine growth restriction. Conversely, fetal macrosomia arises from maternal hyperglycemia and subsequent fetal hyperinsulinemia, resulting in excessive fetal growth. The chronic inflammatory state and oxidative stress associated with GD exacerbate these complications, creating a hostile intrauterine environment. GD's complex pathophysiology involves multiple disruptions in insulin signaling, mitochondrial function, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Effective management requires early detection, preventive strategies, and international collaboration to standardize care and improve outcomes for mothers and babies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the parent, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) causes both hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Despite excess lipid availability, infants exposed to GDM are at risk for essential long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) deficiency. Isotope studies have confirmed less LCPUFA transfer from the parent to the fetus, but how diabetic fuels impact placental fatty acid (FA) uptake and lipid droplet partitioning is not well-understood. We evaluated the effects of high glucose conditions, high lipid conditions, and their combination on trophoblast growth, viability, mitochondrial bioenergetics, BODIPY-labeled fatty acid (FA) uptake, and lipid droplet dynamics. The addition of four carbons or one double bond to FA acyl chains dramatically affected the uptake in both BeWo and primary isolated cytotrophoblasts (CTBs). The uptake was further impacted by media exposure. The combination-exposed trophoblasts had more mitochondrial protein (p = 0.01), but impaired maximal and spare respiratory capacities (p < 0.001 and p < 0.0001), as well as lower viability (p = 0.004), due to apoptosis. The combination-exposed trophoblasts had unimpaired uptake of BODIPY C12 but had significantly less whole-cell and lipid droplet uptake of BODIPY C16, with an altered lipid droplet count, area, and subcellular localization, whereas these differences were not seen with individual high glucose or lipid exposure. These findings bring us closer to understanding how GDM perturbs active FA transport to increase the risk of adverse outcomes from placental and neonatal lipid accumulation alongside LCPUFA deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cluster of metabolic changes occur to provide energy for fetal growth and development during pregnancy. There is a burgeoning body of research highlighting the pivotal role of circadian rhythms in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders and lipid homeostasis in mammals. Perturbations of the circadian system and lipid metabolism during gestation might be responsible for a variety of adverse reproductive outcomes comprising miscarriage, gestational diabetes mellitus, and preeclampsia. Growing studies have confirmed that resynchronizing circadian rhythms might alleviate metabolic disturbance. However, there is no clear evidence regarding the specific mechanisms by which the diurnal rhythm regulates lipid metabolism during pregnancy. In this review, we summarize previous knowledge on the strong interaction among the circadian clock, lipid metabolism, and pregnancy. Analyzing the circadian clock genes will improve our understanding of how circadian rhythms are implicated in complex lipid metabolic disorders during pregnancy. Exploring the potential of resynchronizing these circadian rhythms to disrupt abnormal lipid metabolism could also result in a breakthrough in reducing adverse pregnancy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gestational diabetes mellitus is characterised by an insufficient insulin response to hyperglycaemia and the development of insulin resistance. This state has adverse effects on the health outcomes of the mother and child. Existing hyperglycaemia triggers a state of inflammation that involves several tissues, including the placenta. In this study, we analysed the putative pathomechanism of GDM, with special emphasis on the role of chronic, sterile, pro-inflammatory pathways. The expression and regulation of the elements of IL-1β and Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways in GDM maternal blood plasma, healthy placental explants and a choriocarcinoma cell line (BeWo cell line) stimulated with pro-inflammatory factors was evaluated. Our results indicate elevated expression of the IL-1β and TLR pathways in GDM patients. After stimulation with IL-1β or LPS, the placental explants and BeWo cell line showed increased production of pro-inflammatory IL-6, TNFa and IL-1β together with increased expression of the elements of the signalling pathways. The application of selected inhibitors of NF-ĸB, MAPK and recombinant interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL1RA) proved the key involvement of the IL-1β pathway and TLRs in the pathogenesis of GDM. Our results show the possible existence of loops of autocrine stimulation and a possible inflammatory pathomechanism in placentas affected by GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Learning alterations in the child population may be linked to gestational diabetes as a causal factor, though this remains an open and highly controversial question. In that sense, it has been reported that maternal hyperglycemia generates a threatening condition that affects hippocampal development in offspring. The pyramidal cells of the CA3 subfield, a key structure in learning and memory processes, are particularly important in cognitive deficiencies. We evaluate the effect of the hyperglycemic intrauterine environment on hippocampal histomorphometry in offspring, correlating it with spatial learning and memory, as well as the morphology of dendrites and spines in 30-day-old pups (P30). The maternal hyperglycemia affected the body weight, height, and brain size of fetuses at 21 days of gestation (F21), newborn pups (P0) and P30 pups from diabetic rats, which were smaller compared to the control group. Consequently, this resulted in a decrease in hippocampal size, lower neuronal density and cytoarchitectural disorganization in the CA3 region of the hippocampus in the offspring at the three ages studied. The behavioral tests performed showed a direct relationship between morpho-histological alterations and deficiencies in learning and memory, as well as alterations in the morphology of the dendrites and spines. Therefore, knowing the harmful effects caused by gestational diabetes can be of great help to establish therapeutic and educational strategies that can help to improve learning and memory in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human placenta is a vital organ, encompassing many distinct cell types, that maintains the growth and development of the fetus and is essential for substance exchange, defense, synthesis, and immunity. Abnormalities in placental cells can lead to various pregnancy complications, but the mechanisms remain largely unclear. Single‐cell and spatial transcriptomics technologies have been developed in recent years to demonstrate placental cell heterogeneity and spatial molecular localization. Here, we review and summarize the current literature, demonstrating these technologies and showing the heterogeneity of various placenta cells and cell–cell communication of normal human placenta, as well as placenta‐related diseases, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, advanced maternal age, recurrent pregnancy loss, and placenta accreta spectrum disorders. Meanwhile, current weaknesses and future direction were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the case of a 42-year-old pregnant woman with type 2 diabetes who was treated with dulaglutide until the 34th week of pregnancy. Despite concerns about the use of GLP-1 RAs in pregnancy, the woman did not experience fetal malformations or neonatal complications. The case highlights the need for improved clinical education for women with type 2 diabetes regarding pregnancy planning and the potential risks associated with certain medications. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: To investigate the correlation between lipid levels during gestation and the incidence rate of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and macrosomia. Method: Clinical records of 607 pregnant women with GDM (GDM group) who delivered in the Obstetrics Department of Fujian Maternal and Child Health Hospital from May to December 2018 and of 833 women with uncomplicated pregnancies (control group) were retrospectively analyzed. After delivery, the entire cohort was further grouped based on the weight of the neonates: women who delivered newborns with body mass <4 kg comprised the normal group (n = 1367), and pregnancies that resulted in delivery of neonates with body mass >4 kg were classified as the macrosomia group (n = 73). Fasting serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and TG/HDL‐C ratio were compared between the groups at the early (10–12 weeks), middle (24–28 weeks), and late (28 weeks‐delivery) stages of pregnancy, and the correlation between the lipid indices and the rates of GDM and macrosomia were analyzed. Results: There was a gradual increase in TC, TG, LDL‐C, and TG/HDL‐C levels with increasing gestational weeks in pregnant women. TG and TG/HDL‐C levels were markedly higher, while HDL‐C was lower in women with GDM compared with women of the same gestational age with uncomplicated pregnancies (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Lipid metabolism disorders exist in pregnant women with GDM at different gestational stages and are closely related to the higher incidence of macrosomia. TG, TG/HDL‐C, and HDL‐C in early and late pregnancy are independent risk factors for macrosomia in all trimesters, and TG/HDL‐C ratio at different gestational stages has a good predictive value for macrosomia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Describe the current status of illness perception, depression, and self‐management behaviors among women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and explore the role of depression in the relationship between illness perception and self‐management behaviors among women with GDM. Methods: Pregnant women diagnosed with GDM were recruited at the obstetrics clinic of a Grade‐A tertiary hospital in Wuhan, through convenience sampling. Self‐reported questionnaires including basic information, illness perception, depression, and self‐management behaviors were used to collect data from April 2021 to February 2022. Mediation analysis was performed by SPSS Process macro. Results: Among GDM pregnant women, the mean self‐management behaviors score was 73.89 (SD = 12.21), the mean illness perception score was 31.80 (SD = 8.77), and 44.3% had depression scores of 10 or higher. The indirect effect of illness perception on self‐management behaviors mediated by depression was significant (path a * b, β = −0.045), accounting for 26.6% of the total effect. Conclusion: GDM pregnant women have a certain negative illness perception of GDM, and the detection rate of depression symptoms is relatively high. The level of self‐management behaviors among GDM pregnant women is notably suboptimal and warrants improvement. Depression partially mediates the relationship between illness perception and self‐management behaviors. Improving positive illness perception and decreasing depression are important strategies to improve self‐management behaviors in women with GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This series of three articles will explore the fundamentals related to anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology in relation to three important topics: the cardiac system, the respiratory system and the endocrine system. The series is intended to provide an informative and evidence-based summary of each topic for both students and clinicians. This third and final paper explores the maternal endocrine system, outlining the key physiological adaptations in pregnancy and summarising the key pathophysiological conditions that may occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of household air pollution on pregnant women with GDM, and assessed the modifying effect of a healthy lifestyle on this relationship. Household solid fuel exposure was defined as using solid fuels (coal, crop residue, and wood) for cooking and heating. Four individually modifiable lifestyle factors were assessed in early pregnancy: body mass index, diet, sleep, and vitamin D supplementation. Multifactorial logistic regression modeling was used to assess the relationship between household air pollution and GDM. A stratified analysis and additive interaction tested the effects of healthy lifestyle scores. After adjusting for potential confounders, we found that using solid fuels for heating was significantly associated with an increased risk of GDM (adjusted OR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.18–2.18). GDM risk showed a decreasing trend in the medium versus the high score group when compared to the low score group, with a consistent trend regardless of household fuel type used (adjusted OR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.27–0.57) (adjusted OR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.05–0.28), respectively. Importantly, when the healthy lifestyle score increased, exposure to household air pollution was no longer associated with a higher GDM risk. There was a negative additive interaction between exposure to household solid fuels exposure and a healthy lifestyle (FERI: −5.10 [−16.48, −2.04]; AP: −1.29 [−2.80, −0.39]; SI: −0.37 [−0.20, −0.67]). We determined that exposure to household air pollution may be an important GDM risk factor. In addition, A healthy lifestyle may have a protective effect on women with GDM exposed to indoor fuel air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare maternal vascular indices and hemodynamic parameters at 35–37 weeks' gestation in pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), those with pre‐existing diabetes mellitus (DM) and those without GDM or pre‐existing DM. Methods: This was a prospective observational study in women with a singleton pregnancy attending for a routine hospital visit at 35 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks' gestation. The visit included recording of maternal demographic characteristics and medical history, and measurement of vascular indices and hemodynamic parameters using a non‐invasive operator‐independent device. These included carotid‐to‐femoral pulse‐wave velocity, augmentation index, cardiac output, stroke volume, central systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total peripheral resistance and heart rate. The values in the GDM and pre‐existing DM groups were compared to those in the unaffected group. Results: We examined 6746 women, of whom 396 were excluded because they had chronic hypertension or developed pre‐eclampsia or gestational hypertension. The study population of 6350 pregnancies contained 99 (1.6%) with pre‐existing Type‐I or Type‐II DM and 617 (9.7%) that developed GDM, including 261 (42.3%) that were treated with diet alone, 239 (38.7%) treated with metformin alone and 117 (19.0%) treated with insulin with or without metformin. Among women with GDM and those with pre‐existing DM, compared to those without GDM or pre‐existing DM, there was a higher median cardiac output and heart rate, central systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse‐wave velocity, but there was no significant difference in stroke volume or total peripheral resistance. There were no significant differences within the GDM group according to treatment type, except for higher heart rate in women treated with metformin alone compared to the group treated with diet alone. Conclusion: Women with GDM and those with pre‐existing DM have evidence of early vascular disease in the third trimester, and this may contribute to their increased long‐term cardiovascular risk. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the association between maternal metformin use for the treatment of early gestational or pre-existing type 2 diabetes and preterm preeclampsia. METHODS: This is a planned secondary analysis of the MOMPOD study (Medical Optimization of Management of Overt Type 2 Diabetes in Pregnancy), a randomized trial comparing the effect of adding metformin with insulin treatment on composite neonatal outcome in singleton pregnancies with early gestational or type 2 diabetes. Participants were randomized at 11-23 weeks of gestation to 1,000 mg metformin twice daily or placebo until delivery. A subset of participants had maternal blood collected at 24-30 weeks of gestation, and serum soluble endoglin, apolipoprotein B, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, placental growth factor, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, adiponectin, and vascular endothelial growth factor levels were measured. Our primary outcome was preterm preeclampsia, defined as preeclampsia requiring delivery before 37 weeks of gestation. Secondary outcomes included preterm preeclampsia requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation and differences in serum biomarkers. Multivariable regression analysis was used to estimate the associations between metformin use and primary or secondary study outcomes. RESULTS: Of 831 participants, 119 (14.3%) developed preeclampsia requiring delivery before 37 weeks of gestation: 57 of 416 (13.7%) in the placebo group and 62 of 415 (14.9%) in the metformin group. Thirty-seven (4.4%) developed preeclampsia requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation: 15 (3.6%) receiving placebo and 22 (5.3%) receiving metformin. Compared with placebo, metformin was not associated with a significant difference in the occurrence of preeclampsia before 37 weeks of gestation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.04, 95% CI, 0.70-1.56) or before 34 weeks (aOR 1.43, 95% CI, 0.73-2.81). Similarly, there was no association between maternal metformin use and serum biomarker levels. CONCLUSION: Among parturients with early gestational or pre-existing type 2 diabetes, the addition of metformin to insulin was not associated with lower odds of preterm preeclampsia or with serum biomarkers associated with cardiovascular disease risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether having a pregnancy in a deprived neighborhood was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) compared with having a pregnancy in the least-deprived neighborhoods. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational cohort study of pregnant individuals within Kaiser Permanente Northern California from 2011 to 2018 with residential history from prepregnancy through 24 weeks of gestation and clinical data from prepregnancy through delivery. The primary outcome was a diagnosis of GDM. Neighborhood deprivation was characterized with an index aggregating multiple indicators of Census tract-level sociodemographic information. Mediation analysis using inverse odds ratio weighting estimated the mediation effects of prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), gestational weight gain, smoking tobacco, and illegal drug use before GDM diagnosis. RESULTS: Overall, 214,375 pregnant individuals were included, and 11.3% had a diagnosis of GDM. Gestational diabetes prevalence increased with neighborhood deprivation from 10.0% in the lowest Neighborhood Deprivation Index quintile to 12.7% in the highest quintile. Compared with pregnant individuals in the least deprived neighborhoods (quintile 1), pregnant individuals in quintiles 2-5 had elevated risk of GDM (relative risk [95% CI]) when adjusted for maternal age, parity, insurance type, and residential history (quintile 2, 1.17 [1.10-1.23]; quintile 3, 1.38 [1.30-1.46]; quintile 4, 1.54 [1.45-1.63]; quintile 5, 1.71 [1.62-1.82]). There was a dose-response relationship between relative risk of GDM and increasing quintile of neighborhood deprivation (P for trend ,.001). Prepregnancy BMI mediated 45.8% (95% CI, 40.9-50.7%) of the association. Other potential mediators were found to mediate a small if not negligible proportion of this association (2.4-3.6%). CONCLUSION: Neighborhood deprivation was associated with GDM, and a considerable proportion of this relationship was mediated by prepregnancy BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether universal use of every-other-day glucose monitoring in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) resulted in similar birth weights and medication use and was preferred by the patient compared with traditional daily glucose monitoring. METHODS: This was a noninferiority randomized controlled trial conducted at a single New York City hospital between April 2021 and May 2022. Patients with singleton pregnancies who were diagnosed with GDM after 20 weeks of gestation and had a minimum of 7 days of previous daily blood glucose testing were randomly assigned to test blood glucose values daily or every other day. The primary outcome was neonatal birthweight. We calculated a total sample size of 196 participants needed for noninferiority to be tested, assuming the mean birth weight in the every-other-day group, compared with the daily group, was no higher than the predefined noninferiority margin of 200 g (80% power and one-sided alpha of 0.05). Postrandomization characteristics, including blood glucose values and medication initiation and timing, were recorded. Satisfaction with treatment group was assessed using the validated Oxford Maternity Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 197 patients were randomized: 98 in the daily group and 99 in the every-other-day group. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. The mean neonatal birth weight was similar between groups (mean6SD 3,0906418 g among newborns in the daily group compared with 3,1816482 g among newborns in the every-other-day group). For the primary outcome, the every-other-day group was found to be noninferior to the daily group with an upper confidence limit for the mean difference in mean birth weight of 197 g, which was below the noninferiority margin of 200 g (P5.046). Postrandomization, there were no significant differences in the number of patients who required medication, the gestational age at which medication was started, or the type of medication used. Average fasting and postprandial glucose values were similar between groups. There was an increase in adherence to treatment group in those randomized to every-other-day blood sugars, but no difference in patient satisfaction. CONCLUSION: In patients with GDM, testing blood glucose values every other day was as effective as testing daily, without apparent effects on birth weight, medication initiation, or glucose control. Reduced frequency of blood glucose monitoring might help decrease the emotional, physical, and financial burden experienced by patients with GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To examine long-term diabetes risk after preterm delivery or hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in a large population-based cohort. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included all women with a singleton delivery in Sweden during 1973-2015 and no preexisting diabetes mellitus. Participants were followed up for development of type 2 diabetes identified from nationwide outpatient and inpatient diagnoses through 2018. Cox regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) for the association between preterm delivery or hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and type 2 diabetes with adjustment for gestational diabetes and other maternal factors. Co-sibling analyses assessed for confounding by shared familial (genetic or environmental) factors. RESULTS: Overall, 2,184,417 women were included. Within 10 years after delivery, adjusted HRs for type 2 diabetes associated with specific pregnancy outcomes were as follows: any preterm delivery (before 37 weeks of gestation), 1.96 (95% CI, 1.83-2.09); extremely preterm delivery (22-27 weeks), 2.53 (95% CI, 2.03-3.16); and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, 1.52 (95% CI, 1.43-1.63). All HRs remained significantly elevated (1.1-1.7-fold) 30-46 years after delivery. These findings were largely unexplained by shared familial factors. CONCLUSION: In this large national cohort, preterm delivery and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were associated with increased risk for type 2 diabetes up to 46 years later. Women with these pregnancy complications are candidates for early preventive actions and long-term monitoring for type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-derived glycemic patterns observed throughout pregnancy were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, specifically fetal growth disorders and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). METHODS: We conducted a prospective observational study of individuals with viable singleton pregnancies and screening hemoglobin A1c levels less than 6.5%. Those with preexisting diabetes were excluded. Enrollment occurred at the earliest gestational age before 17 weeks. Participants wore blinded continuous glucose monitors consecutively as willing until delivery. Those with at least 14 days of CGM data were included in analysis. Rates of large-for-gestational-age (LGA) neonates, small-for-gestational age (SGA) neonates, and HDP were assessed. Continuous glucose monitoring-derived glycemic metrics were calculated, including mean glucose level and percent time above and below thresholds. Two-sample t tests were used to compare glycemic metrics between participants with and without adverse perinatal outcomes. RESULTS: Of 937 participants enrolled, 760 met inclusion criteria. Those delivering LGA neonates or who were diagnosed with HDP had higher mean glucose levels (10269 vs 10068, P5.01 and 10368 vs 9968, P,.001) and spent more time above 120 mg/dL (median 16% vs 12%, P5.006, and 16% vs 12%, P,.001, respectively) and above 140 mg/dL (median 3.9% vs 2.8%, P5.006, and 3.5% vs 2.8%, P,.001, respectively) throughout gestation than those without these outcomes. These findings were present regardless of gestational diabetes mellitus status. Participants with SGA neonates had lower mean glucose levels (9767 vs 10168, P5.01) and spent less time above 140 mg/dL (median 1.6% vs 2.3%, P5.01) and more time below 63 mg/dL (median 3.0% vs 2.3%, P5.02) than those without SGA neonates. CONCLUSION: Individuals with LGA neonates or HDP exhibit a slightly higher mean glucose levels and spend more time hyperglycemic in early pregnancy than those who do not experience these outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]