The predictive value of MP hypertension monitoring system combined with PLGF and PI for preeclampsia / 天津医药

Objective To establish a clinical prediction model for preeclampsia by monitoring risk rating of MP gestation and levels of placental growth factor(PLGF)combined with uterine artery pulsatility index(PI)measured during examination of fetal nuchal translucency(NT).Methods Twenty-four patients with preeclampsia who met the inclusion criteria were selected as the case group,and 95 healthy pregnant women during the same period were randomly selected as the control group.Serum concentrations of PLGF,uterine artery PI values measured by quantitative immunofluorescence assay at 11-14 weeks of gestation,risk ratings for MP hypertension monitoring at 11-20 weeks of gestation,and other relevant data,BMI,age,gestation,mode of delivery,neonatal birth weight and Apgar score were collected in the two groups.Results Results of univariate regression analysis showed that BMI,age,high risk of PI,MP and PLGF<12 were influencing factors for adverse outcomes.Results of multivariate regression analysis showed that high PI,medium high risk in MP and PLGF<12 were independent risk factors for adverse outcomes.The prediction model of PE established was logit(P)=-15.767 + 0.020×PI + 0.072×MP risk(medium-high risk = 1,low risk = 0)+ 0.181×PLGF classification(＜12 = 1,≥12 = 0),with an AUC area of 0.883,specificity of 0.816 and sensitivity of 0.846.Conclusion The combination of PI,MP risk and PLGF to establish a clinical predictive model for preeclampsia has certain value,and its combined predictive value is higher than that of single application.

Relationship between body mass index and gestational hypertension: a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and gestational hypertension using two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.Methods:The summary level data for BMI and gestational hypertension were obtained from the genome-wide association study (the deadline for data inclusion was October 31, 2023). All data were analyzed by inverse variance weighting, MR-Egger regression, weighted median, simple model and weighted model methods. Cochrane Q test was used to evaluate heterogeneity, MR-Egger regression intercept test and funnel plot were used to assess horizontal pleiotropy. Results:Inverse variance weighting result under fixed effects and random effects models showed that the risk of gestational hypertension increased with the increase of BMI ( OR = 1.62 and 1.62, 95% CI 1.39 to 1.88 and 1.39 to 1.88, P<0.01). Sensitivity analysis results including MR-Egger regression, weighted median and weighted model methods showed that BMI increased the risk of gestational hypertension ( OR = 1.51, 1.56 and 1.71; 95% CI 1.01 to 2.26, 1.23 to 1.99 and 1.09 to 2.69; P<0.05 or <0.01). Although Cochrane Q test result showed evidence of heterogeneity ( P = 0.04), inverse variance weighting under a random model suggested that BMI increased the risk of gestational hypertension. Horizontal pleiotropy was not observed in the above analysis ( P = 0.73). Conclusions:Obesity may increase the risk of gestational hypertension. Pregnant women should pay attention to weight control to decrease the risk of gestational hypertension.

Evidence-based evaluation of guidelines for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To quantitatively evaluate the guidelines for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) at home and abroad, and to provide a reference for the development of related guidelines in the future.Methods:Guidelines related to HDP published at home and abroad from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2022 were retrieved from several databases, including CNKI, Wanfang Database, Yiigle, VIP Database, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science with the terms of "hypertension in pregnancy", "hypertensive disorders of pregnancy", "pre-eclampsia", "eclampsia", and "guidelines". The retrieved guidelines were evaluated with the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation Ⅱ (AGREE Ⅱ) and Scientific, Transparent and Applicable Rankings (STAR) tool. According to the manual of AGREE Ⅱ two researchers graded the retrieved guidelines from six domains: scope and purpose, participants, rigor, clarity, applicability, and independence. Mean standardized score of each domain and the overall score were obtained. STAR tool was used to grade the guidelines by two researchers and one methodologist from 11 domains: registration, protocol, funding, working groups, conflicts of interest, clinical issues, evidence, consensus methods, recommendations, accessibility, and others.Results:A total of 19 related guidelines were included, covering six countries on three continents. The mean standardized scores of the 19 guidelines in the six domains of scope and purpose, participants, rigor, clarity, applicability, and independence using the AGREE II instrument were 73.98%, 63.16%, 59.98%, 66.37%, 56.36%, and 71.93%, respectively. Scores in the 11 domains of registration, protocol, funding, working groups, conflicts of interest, clinical issues, evidence, consensus methods, recommendations, accessibility, and others using the STAR tool were 0.00%, 0.00%, 76.15%, 39.87%, 58.92%, 65.19%, 60.80%, 49.78%, 78.95%, 30.89%, and 42.11%, respectively. According to the overall evaluation results, 12 guidelines were recommended and seven needed further modifications. It was found that most guidelines were unanimous in their recommendations on the prevention of preeclampsia with aspirin, medications for patients with severe hypertension, and the timing of pregnancy termination in preeclampsia patients, with the consensus rates of 10/13, 9/13, and 9/13, respectively. Besides, these recommendations were supported by substantial evidence.Conclusions:The overall quality of guidelines related to HDP at home and abroad is high, but there is still room for improvement. When developing relevant guidelines in the future, statisticians and methodologists should be included in the working groups to improve the evidence-based quality, and much attention should be paid to the disclosure of conflicts of interest guidelines. Registration and protocol are needed before publishing a guideline. The development of multiple versions for different users will conduce to improving the management of HDP.

Evaluation of left ventricular function in patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension using echocardiography / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical value of tissue Doppler echocardiography in the evaluation of left ventricular function in patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension.Methods:This is a case-control study, including 100 patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension who received treatment at the Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine from May 2019 to May 2022, and an additional 100 healthy pregnant women who underwent physical examination during the same period. All participants underwent two-dimensional echocardiography, pulsed Doppler echocardiography, and tissue Doppler echocardiography. Ultrasound parameters related to left ventricular morphology and function were collected from all participants. The ultrasound parameters related to left ventricular morphology and function between patients with different types of pregnancy-induced hypertension and healthy controls were compared. The correlation between left ventricular function ultrasound parameters and serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels was investigated.Results:Patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension, patients with mild preeclampsia, patients with severe preeclampsia, and healthy controls demonstrated differences in interventricular septum thickness during diastole [(10.24 ± 1.18) mm, (11.39 ± 1.24) mm, (11.57 ± 1.29) mm, (8.81 ± 0.95) mm], left ventricular end-diastolic diameter [(47.31 ± 2.81) mm, (49.82 ± 2.89) mm, (52.03 ± 2.94) mm, (46.82 ± 2.76) mm], left ventricular posterior wall thickness [(9.73 ± 1.06) mm, (10.62 ± 1.13) mm, (11.75 ± 1.21) mm, (8.96 ± 0.97) mm], left ventricular inner diameter [(32.82 ± 2.34) mm, (35.48 ± 2.39) mm, (36.04 ± 2.45) mm, (30.41 ± 2.27) mm], and left ventricular mass index [(98.41 ± 7.83) g/m 2, (105.73 ± 8.26) g/m 2, (108.63 ± 8.57) g/m 2, (96.59 ± 7.69) g/m 2]. All of these parameters showed significant differences between patients with different types of pregnancy-induced hypertension and healthy controls ( F = 13.47, 12.61, 16.59, 13.26, 19.73, all P < 0.001). Significant differences were also observed in echocardiographic indices of left ventricular function such as peak velocity ratio of E and A waves, systolic motor amplitude, early peak diastolic velocity to late peak diastolic velocity, and Tei index between patients with different types of pregnancy-induced hypertension and healthy controls ( F = 12.84, 11.27, 14.64, 21.43, all P < 0.001). In patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension, peak velocity ratio of E and A waves, systolic motor amplitude, and early peak diastolic velocity to late peak diastolic velocity were moderately negatively correlated with serum NT-proBNP level ( r = -0.56, -0.43, -0.54, P = 0.029, 0.042, 0.031), while Tei index showed a positive correlation with serum NT-proBNP level ( r = 0.77; P = 0.003). Conclusion:Two-dimensional echocardiography, pulsed Doppler echocardiography combined with tissue Doppler echocardiography can be used to effectively evaluate the changes in left ventricular structure and function in patients with different types of pregnancy-induced hypertension. Monitoring the Tei index using tissue Doppler echocardiography can accurately reflect myocardial injury and functional changes, which has a great clinical application value.

Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy as a major cause of preterm birth and adverse perinatal outcomes: findings from a Brazilian National Survey

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy among Brazilian women with preterm births and to compare the epidemiological characteristics and perinatal outcomes among preterm births of women with and without hypertension. Methods This was a secondary cross-sectional analysis of the Brazilian Multicenter Study on Preterm Birth. During the study period, all women with preterm births were included and further split into two groups according to the occurrence of any hypertensive disorder during pregnancy. Prevalence ratios were calculated for each variable. Maternal characteristics, prenatal care, and gestational and perinatal outcomes were compared between the two groups using χ2 and t-tests. Results A total of 4,150 women with preterm births were included, and 1,169 (28.2%) were identified as having hypertensive disorders. Advanced maternal age (prevalence ratio (PR) 2.49) and obesity (PR= 2.64) were more common in the hypertensive group. The gestational outcomes were worse in women with hypertension. Early preterm births were also more frequent in women with hypertension. Conclusion Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were frequent among women with preterm births, and provider-initiated preterm births were the leading causes of premature births in this group. The factors significantly associated with hypertensive disorders among women with preterm births were obesity, excessive weight gain, and higher maternal age.

Efeitos da suplementação do cálcio sobre marcadores da pré-eclâmpsia: ensaio clínico randomizado / Efectos de los suplementos de calcio en marcadores de preeclampsia: ensayo clínico aleatorizado / Effects of calcium supplementation on markers of preeclampsia: randomized clinical trial

Resumo Objetivo Analisar os efeitos da suplementação de cálcio nos marcadores da pré-eclâmpsia ao longo do tempo, comparando o uso de cálcio em alta e baixa dosagem em mulheres grávidas com hipertensão. Métodos Trata-se de ensaio clínico randomizado com três grupos paralelos, placebo controlado, realizado no ambulatório de referência para o pré-natal de alto risco na Região Sul do Brasil, com análise de intenção de tratar e seguimento após quatro e oito semanas. A intervenção consistiu na ingestão de cálcio 500mg/dia, cálcio 1500mg/dia e placebo. Os dados foram analisados segundo um modelo generalizado de estimação de equações mistas adotando α 0,05. Resultados O efeito do cálcio em baixa e alta dosagem na evolução ao longo do tempo foi mantido entre os grupos, mesmo após o ajuste para os fatores de confusão. Houve diferença significativa nos parâmetros analisados na interação tempo e grupo (p <0,000) e diminuição nas médias de 12,3mmHg na PAS, 9,2 mmHg na PAD, 3,2 mg/dl creatinina e 7,2 mg/dl proteinúria para o grupo cálcio 500mg/dia. Os resultados foram semelhantes para o grupo com suplementação máxima. Conclusão O cálcio melhorou o prognóstico vascular em mulheres grávidas com hipertensão ao reduzir os níveis pressóricos e os marcadores da pré-eclâmpsia.

Resumen Objetivo Analizar los efectos de los suplementos de calcio en los marcadores de preeclampsia a lo largo del tiempo, comparando el uso de calcio en dosis altas y bajas en mujeres embarazadas con hipertensión. Métodos Se trata de un ensayo clínico aleatorizado con tres grupos paralelos, placebo controlado realizado en consultorios externos de referencia en el control prenatal de alto riesgo en la Región Sur de Brasil, con análisis de intención de tratar y seguimiento luego de cuatro y ocho semanas. La intervención consistió en la ingesta de calcio 500 mg/día, calcio 1500 mg/día y placebo. Los datos se analizaron de acuerdo con un modelo generalizado de estimación de ecuaciones mixtas adoptando α 0,05. Resultados El efecto del calcio en dosis bajas y altas en la evolución a lo largo del tiempo se mantuvo entre los grupos, inclusive después de los ajustes por los factores de confusión. Hubo diferencia significativa en los parámetros analizados en la interacción tiempo y grupo (p <0,000) y reducción de los promedios de 12,3 mmHg en la PAS, 9,2 mmHg en la PAD, 3,2 mg/dl creatinina y 7,2 mg/dl proteinuria en el grupo calcio 500 mg/día. Los resultados fueron parecidos en el grupo con suplemento en dosis máxima. Conclusión El calcio mejoró el pronóstico vascular en mujeres embarazadas con hipertensión al reducir los niveles de presión y los marcadores de preeclampsia. Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos: RBR-9ngb95

Abstract Objective To analyze the effects of calcium supplementation on markers of preeclampsia over time by comparing the use of high- and low-dose calcium in hypertensive pregnant women. Methods This is a randomized clinical trial, placebo controlled, with three parallel groups carried out at the reference outpatient clinic for high-risk prenatal care in the South Region of Brazil, with intention-to-treat analysis and follow-up after four and eight weeks. The intervention consisted of ingesting calcium 500mg/day, calcium 1500mg/day and placebo. Data were analyzed according to a generalized mixed equation estimation model adopting α 0.05. Results The effect of low- and high-dose calcium on evolution over time was maintained between groups, even after adjustment for confounding factors. There was a significant difference in the parameters analyzed in the time and group interaction (p <0.000) and a decrease in the means of 12.3 mmHg in SBP, 9.2 mmHg in DBP, 3.2 mg/dl creatinine and 7.2 mg/dl proteinuria for the 500mg calcium/day group. The results were similar for the maximal supplementation group. Conclusion Calcium improved vascular prognosis in hypertensive pregnant women by reducing blood pressure levels and markers of preeclampsia. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials: RBR-9ngb95

How can we reduce maternal mortality due to preeclampsia? The 4P rule

Abstract In low and middle-income countries such as Brazil, most maternal deaths are related to hypertensive complications. Preeclampsia is the leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Significant proportion is associated with the following factors: lack of identification of high-risk women, lack of adequate prevention, difficulty in maintaining a high-risk prenatal follow-up, delayed diagnosis, insecurity and low use of magnesium sulphate, delayed pregnancy interruption and lack of postpartum follow-up of these high-risk cases. Four major actions are proposed to minimize this alarming clinical picture and reduce the mortality rates due to preeclampsia, called the "4 P Rule" (Adequate Prevention - Vigilant Prenatal Care - Timely Delivery (Parturition) - Safe Postpartum). From this simple "rule" we can open a range of important processes and reminders that may help in the guidance of preeclampsia management.

Uso de labetalol frente a nifedipino en la preeclampsia / Use of labetalol vs nifedipine in preeclampsia

Fundamento: La preeclampsia es un estado de vasoconstricción generalizado asociado a la disfunción del epitelio vascular en vez de vasodilatación propia del embarazo, caracterizada por la hipertensión proteinuria a partir de la semana 20, acompañada a veces de edemas; asimismo constituye un peligro de salud para la madre y el feto. El tratamiento clínico tradicional utiliza fármacos antihipertensivos por vía oral, entre los que se mencionan el labetalol y nifedipino de liberación prolongada. Objetivo: Analizar la efectividad del labetalol y del nifedipino como tratamiento antihipertensivo relacionado con preeclampsia. Metodología: Se recurrió a fuentes de consulta encontradas en Google Scholar, Science Direct, SciELO, Pubmed, Medes y Elsevier. De 211 fuentes se seleccionaron 31 de acuerdo con criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Conclusiones: Por consenso se ha determinado que en la mayor parte de fuentes de consulta el nifedipino por vía oral es más efectivo que el labetalol en el tratamiento de la preeclampsia.

Background: Pre-eclampsia is a generalized vasoconstriction state associated with vascular epithelial dysfunction rather than the vasodilation characteristic of pregnancy, characterized by proteinuric hypertension from the 20th week of pregnancy, sometimes associated with edema; it also causes health risks to the mother and fetus. Traditional clinical treatment uses oral antihypertensive drugs, among these labetalol and extended-release nifedipine are included. Objective: To analyze the efficacy of labetalol and nifedipine as an antihypertensive treatment in pre-eclampsia. Methodology: Reference sources found in Google Scholar, Science Direct, SciELO, Pubmed, Medes and Elsevier were used. Out of 211 sources, 31 were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Conclusions: It has been determined by majority consensus that oral nifedipine is more effective than labetalol in pre-eclampsia treatment.

Exposição ao cádmio e Síndromes Hipertensivas da Gestação: uma revisão sistemática / Cadmium exposure and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: a systematic review

RESUMO As Síndromes Hipertensivas da Gestação (SHG) são uma das principais causas de morbimortalidade materna. Evidências crescentes indicam a associação entre a exposição ao cádmio e a hipertensão arterial na população em geral, mas não as SHG. Afim de investigar esse tema, realizou-se uma revisão sistemática seguindo as diretrizes PRISMA, nas bases de dados BVS/Lilacs, PubMed/Medline e SciELO e no repositório da Universidade de São Paulo (USP) até agosto de 2021. A qualidade metodológica foi avaliada pelo checklist Downs and Black. Selecionaram-se dezenove artigos, sendo treze caso-controle, quatro coortes e dois seccionais. No total, 11.451 participantes foram avaliadas, sendo 1.445 (12,6%) com SHG e, destas, 1.071 (74,1%) com pré-eclâmpsia. Observou-se o ajuste inadequado para confundimento em onze estudos. Dos sete estudos considerados de boa qualidade metodológica, quatro relataram associação positiva e três não a observaram, enquanto somente um estudo observou diferença de média, que foi maior nas gestantes com SHG. Atribuiu-se a divergência dos resultados às diferenças metodológicas e ao ajuste inadequado para os fatores de confusão. Como o cádmio é um metal tóxico que pode levar ao aumento do estresse oxidativo, que desempenha papel importante na fisiopatologia das SHG, estudos adicionais são necessários para elucidar esta associação.

ABSTRACT Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (HDP) are one of the main causes of maternal morbimortality. Strong evidence point to an association between cadmium and hypertension in the general population, but not HDP. A systematic review was carried out to investigate this potential relationship, following PRISMA guidelines, in the BVS/LILACS, PubMed/MEDLINE, and SciELO databases and a repository (University of São Paulo - USP) until August 2021. The methodological quality was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Nineteen articles were selected, thirteen of which were case-control, four were cohorts, and two were cross-sectional. A total of 11.451 participants were evaluated, 1.445 (12.6%) with HDP, and of these 1.071 (74.1%) with preeclampsia. The inadequate adjustment for confounding was observed in eleven studies. Out of the seven studies considered good methodological quality, four reported a positive association, and three did not observe it. In contrast, only one observed a mean difference, which was higher in HDP. The inconsistency of the results was attributed to the methodological differences and inadequate adjustment for confounding. As cadmium is a toxic metal that can induce an increase in oxidative stress, which plays an essential role in the pathophysiology of HDP, additional studies are needed to elucidate this association.

Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension - Ayurvedic Understanding

Pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorders are included among the most common medical complications of pregnancy with an incidence of 5–10%. Hypertension that develops as a direct result of gravid state is referred to as ‘pregnancy-induced hypertension’. The timely management of pregnancy complicated with hypertensive disorders is significant, otherwise it can lead to adverse fetal, neonatal and maternal outcomes. The basic pathology in pre-eclampsia, one of the types of hypertensive disorders is endothelial dysfunction and intense vasospasm due to abnormal placentation compromising blood flow to the foetoplacental unit. There is no direct reference of pregnancy-induced hypertension in Ayurveda classics, but the manifested symptoms can be explained within the purview of Ayurveda. Abnormality in placentation can be considered as impairment in the normal functioning of Vata dosha and when the pathology progresses further; Kapha, Pitta also play their own roles. In a woman with or without a previous history of pre-eclampsia, intervention should begin from pre-conceptional period. Planned pregnancy after pre-conceptional care followed by Garbhini paricharya along with the use of Garbhasthapaka dravya, Rasayana dravya, Masanumasika Garbhasravahara dravya can play significant roles in the prevention as well as management of pregnancy-induced hypertension thus improving the maternal and foetal outcomes.

Diagnóstico y manejo en primer nivel de atención de preeclampsia posparto de inicio tardío. Reporte de caso / Diagnosis and management of late-onset postpartum preeclampsia at the first level of care. Case report

Introducción: La hipertensión postparto de inicio tardío se presenta desde las 48 horas hasta las 6 semanas postparto, afectando al 2% de los embarazos relacionados o no con antecedentes de hipertensión gestacional. La preeclampsia posparto tiene una incidencia del 5,7% a las 72 horas del parto y está asociada a varios factores maternos como la edad (≥ 35 años), etnia (negra) y obesidad (IMC ≥ 30), presentando mayor riesgo en embarazos múltiples, madres añosas (mayores de 35 años) hogares con bajos ingresos económicos. Los síntomas más frecuentes de esta patología son cefalea, disnea, trastornos visuales y edema periférico.Objetivo: Describir la experiencia en un centro de salud de atención primaria, el manejo de una paciente diagnosticada de preeclampsia posparto de inicio tardío, así como las caracte-rísticas clínicas y factores de riesgo.Presentación del caso: Se presenta el caso de una paciente indígena de 32 años con antece-dente de parto gemelar quien en su control del puerperio a las 72 horas presentó hipertensión arterial, cefalea frontal, edema periférico y proteinuria estableciéndose el diagnóstico de pree-clampsia posparto de inicio tardío. No fue posible la referencia a un segundo nivel de atención por las características culturales de la paciente por lo cual recibió manejo clínico y tratamiento en el primer nivel de atención presentando una evolución favorable sin complicaciones. Conclusiones y recomendaciones: La hipertensión posparto de inicio tardío es una patolo-gía poco frecuente en el puerperio, infradiagnosticada, con complicaciones cardiovasculares a corto y largo plazo, por lo cual su diagnóstico, diferenciación y manejo debe ser óptimo en base a las recomendaciones existentes.

Introduction: Late-onset postpartum hypertension occurs from 48 hours to 6 weeks pos-tpartum, affecting 2% of pregnancies related or not to a history of gestational hypertension. Postpartum preeclampsia has an incidence of 5.7% at 72 hours postpartum and is associa-ted with several maternal factors such as age (≥ 35 years), ethnicity (black) and obesity (BMI ≥ 30), presenting higher risk in multiple pregnancies, elderly mothers (older than 35 years) low-income households. The most frequent symptoms of this pathology are headache, dysp-nea, visual disturbances and peripheral edema.Objective: To describe the experience in a primary care health center, the management of a patient diagnosed with late-onset postpartum preeclampsia, as well as the clinical characte-ristics and risk factors.Case presentation: We present the case of a 32-year-old indigenous patient with a history of twin birth who in her puerperium control at 72 hours presented arterial hypertension, frontal headache, peripheral edema and proteinuria establishing the diagnosis of late-onset pos-tpartum preeclampsia, after which treatment was initiated at the first level of care, making referral difficult due to cultural characteristics. Conclusions and recomendations: Late-onset postpartum hypertension is an infrequent pathology in the puerperium, underdiagnosed, with short and long-term cardiovascular com-plications, so its diagnosis, differentiation and management should be optimal based on existing recommendations

Arctigenin mitigates vascular endothelial injury in rats with pregnancy-induced hypertension via autophagy-NLRP3 inflammasome pathway / 中国中药杂志

This study aims to investigate the effect and mechanism of arctigenin(ARC) in the treatment of vascular endothelial injury in rats with pregnancy-induced hypertension(PIH). Fifty SD rats pregnant for 12 days were randomly assigned into a control group, a model group, an ARC group, a rapamycin(RAP, autophagy inducer) group, and an ARC+3-methyladenine(3-MA, autophagy inhibitor) group, with 10 rats in each group. The rats in the other groups except the control group were intraperitoneally injected with nitrosyl-L-arginine methyl ester(50 mg·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)) to establish the PIH model on the 13th day of pregnancy. On the 15th day of pregnancy, the rats in ARC, RAP, and ARC+3-MA groups were intraperitoneally injected with ARC(50 mg·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)), RAP(1 mg·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)), and 3-MA(15 mg·kg~(-1)·d~(-1))+ARC(50 mg·kg~(-1)·d~(-1)), respectively. The pregnant rats in the control group and the model group were intraperitoneally injected with the same amount of normal saline. The blood pressure and 24 h urine protein(24 h-UP) of pregnant rats in each group were measured before and after intervention. Cesarean section was performed to terminate pregnancy on day 21, and the body weight and body length of fetal rats were compared among groups. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining was employed to observe the pathological changes of placenta. The expression of endothelin-1(ET-1) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase(eNOS) in placenta was detected by immunohistochemistry. The serum levels of ET-1 and nitric oxide(NO) were determined with corresponding kits. The expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3(LC3), Beclin-1, NOD-like receptor protein 3(NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein with CARD domain(ASC), caspase-1, interleukin(IL)-1β, and IL-18 was determined by immunofluorescence and Western blot. The level of reactive oxygen species(ROS) in placenta was measured by fluorescence staining. The results showed that on day 12 of pregnancy, the blood pressure and 24 h-UP had no significant differences among groups. On days 15, 19, and 21, the blood pressure and 24 h-UP in the model group were higher than those in the control group(P<0.05). On days 19 and 21, the blood pressure and 24 h-UP in ARC group and RAP group were lower than those in the model group(P<0.05), and they were higher in the ARC+3-MA group than in the ARC group(P<0.05). On day 21, the model group had lower body weight and body length of fetal rats(P<0.05), higher serum level of ET-1, and lower serum level of NO(P<0.05) than the control group. Moreover, the placental tissue showed typical pathological damage, down-regulated expression of LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ, Beclin-1 and eNOS(P<0.05), up-regulated expression of ET-1, NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18(P<0.05), and elevated ROS level. Compared with the model group, ARC and RAP groups showed increased body weight and body length of fetal rats(P<0.05), lowered serum level of ET-1, elevated serum level of NO(P<0.05), reduced pathological damage of placental tissue, up-regulated expression of LC3-Ⅱ/LC3-Ⅰ, Beclin-1, and eNOS(P<0.05), down-regulated expression of ET-1, NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18(P<0.05), and lowered ROS level. Compared with ARC group, 3-MA reversed the effects of ARC on the above indicators. In conclusion, ARC can inhibit the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and mitigate vascular endothelial damage in PIH rats by inducing autophagy of vascular endothelial cells.

Risk factors for hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in women residing in high altitude areas and their impacts on maternal and infant outcomes / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the incidence and risk factors of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) in high altitude areas and their influence on maternal and infant outcomes.Methods:This was a retrospective case-control study. A total of 220 newborns were selected as the high altitude group, who were born to 216 mothers with HDP and admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Lhasa People's Hospital from June 1, 2018, to June 1, 2020. The low altitude group consisted of 235 newborns born to 231 mothers with HDP and admitted to the Department of Neonatology of the Children's Hospital Affiliated to Beijing Capital Institute of Pediatrics from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2021. Differences in the types of HDP between the two groups and the risk factors for the high incidence of preeclampsia-eclampsia and early-onset preeclampsia in high altitude area were analyzed. The influences of HDP in high and low altitude areas on maternal and infant outcomes were compared. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson Chi-square test, or continuous correction Chi-square test, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results:Maternal age and the proportions of primiparae and women of advanced age or having irregular prenatal examination were greater in the high altitude group than those in the low altitude group (all P<0.05). Besides, the incidence of early-onset preeclampsia, eclampsia, preeclampsia-eclampsia, and chronic hypertension complicated by preeclampsia were also higher in the high altitude group (all P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that high altitude was a risk factor for the development of preeclampsia-eclampsia ( OR=4.437, 95% CI:2.582-7.626). Adverse pregnancy history ( OR=2.576, 95% CI:1.217-5.452) and irregular prenatal examination ( OR=2.862, 95% CI:1.412-5.800) were independent risk factors for early-onset preeclampsia in pregnant women in high altitude areas. Twin-pregnancy was a protective factor for early-onset preeclampsia in pregnant women in high altitude areas ( OR=0.183, 95% CI: 0.054-0.623). The incidence of maternal heart failure [7.9% (17/216) vs 0.4% (1/231), χ2=15.98], placental abruption [7.9% (17/216) vs 3.5% (8/231), χ2=4.11], hemolysis, elevated liver function and low platelet count syndrome [14.4% (31/216) vs 1.7% (4/231), χ2=24.64], premature delivery [86.1% (118/216) vs 73.6% (170/231), χ2=10.79], fetal growth restriction [52.3% (115/220) vs 18.7% (44/235), χ2=56.26], fetal distress [18.2% (40/220) vs 8.1% (19/235), χ2=10.26], neonatal asphyxia [29.5% (65/220) vs 11.1% (26/235), χ2=24.26], severe asphyxia [8.6% (19/220) vs 2.6% (6/235), χ2=8.10] and the proportion of neonates requiring mechanical ventilation within 24 h after birth [69.5% (153/220) vs 42.6% (100/235), χ2=33.54] as well as neonatal death within 7 d after birth [5.5% (12/220) vs 1.3% (3/235), χ2=6.22] in the high altitude group were significantly higher than those in the low altitude group (all P<0.05). Conclusion:High altitude is a risk factor for preeclampsia-eclampsia, and the adverse effects of HDP on mothers and infants are more severe in high altitude areas.

History of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy / 中华围产医学杂志

The definition and name of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) have changed several times, and subtle changes in both the connotation and extension of the concept are also seen, which reflects an improvement in the understanding of this syndrome. This paper summarizes and analyzes the history of HDP in China, especially the preeclampsia-eclampsia, with emphasis on the changes in the understanding and the diagnosis and management strategies of HDP.

The predictive value of uterine artery ultrasound examination during early pregnancy for gestational hypertension / 中国基层医药

Objective:To analyze the predictive value of uterine artery ultrasound examination during early pregnancy for gestational hypertension.Methods:A total of 100 patients with gestational hypertension who received treatment in Jinhua Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2020 to January 2022 were included in the observation group. An additional 100 healthy pregnant women who concurrently underwent routine physical examination were included in the control group. Using the case-control study method, both groups underwent uterine artery ultrasound examination during early (7-11 gestational weeks and 6 days) pregnancy. Uterine artery ultrasound data [resistance index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), and arterial peak systolic/diastolic flow velocity (S/D)] were determined and compared between the two groups. Patients in the observation group were followed up to delivery, and the adverse maternal and infant outcomes were analyzed. Those with adverse maternal and infant outcomes were included in the poor prognosis group, while those without adverse maternal and infant outcomes were included in the good prognosis group. The ultrasound data of uterine arteries were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the correlation between uterine artery ultrasound data and adverse maternal and infant outcomes.Results:The RI, PI, and S/D of pregnant women in the observation group were (0.56 ± 0.15), (1.29 ± 0.34), (3.79 ± 0.32), respectively, which were significantly greater than (0.41 ± 0.12), (0.72 ± 0.21), (2.88 ± 0.25) in the control group ( t = 7.80, 14.26, 22.40, all P < 0.001). In the observation group, there were 11 cases of premature birth, 2 cases of miscarriage, 4 cases of postpartum hemorrhage, 4 cases of premature rupture of amniotic fluid, 5 cases of fetal distress, 3 cases of neonatal asphyxia, and 1 case of neonatal growth restriction. The total incidence of adverse maternal and infant outcomes was 30.0% (30/100). The RI, PI, and S/D of pregnant women in the poor prognosis group were (0.65 ± 0.19), (1.37 ± 0.40), and (4.06 ± 0.37), respectively, which were significantly higher than (0.50 ± 0.13), (1.16 ± 0.31), and (3.35 ± 0.29) in the good prognosis group ( t = 4.57, 2.83, 10.30, all P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis was performed using adverse maternal and infant outcomes as dependent variables and RI, PI, and S/D as independent variables. Logistic regression analysis results showed that RI, PI, and S/D were the risk factors for adverse maternal and infant outcomes ( OR = 2.760, 1.832, 3.241, 95% CI = 1.209-5.985, 1.001-2.971, 2.134-10.159). Conclusion:Uterine artery ultrasound examination during early pregnancy has a certain reference value for predicting gestational hypertension and evaluating adverse maternal and infant outcomes. It can provide a reliable basis for early diagnosis and treatment of gestational hypertension and is beneficial for patient prognosis.

Anemia en puérperas andinas peruanas según el tipo de parto: estudio comparativo / Anemia in Peruvian Andean puerperal women according to type of delivery: a comparative study

Resumen OBJETIVO: Describir y comparar las características obstétricas de pacientes puérperas, con anemia, con finalización del embarazo por parto o cesárea. MATERIALES Y METODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional, descriptivo y comparativo de pacientes con anemia en el puerperio de parto y de cesárea atendidas en el Hospital de Lircay de Huancavelica en el año 2020. Se aplicó la técnica del análisis documental y el instrumento fue una ficha de recolección de datos. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 162 partos y 46 cesáreas. En las características patológicas se encontró una diferencia significativa: anemia en el embarazo (112 de 162; 69.1% posparto y 23 de 46 [50% de poscesárea]), trastornos hipertensivos (4 de 162; 2.5% postparto y 8 de 46 [7.4% de poscesárea]), hemorragias de la segunda mitad del embarazo (2 de 162 [1.2% de postparto] y 4 de 46 [8.7% poscesárea]). En cuanto al grado de anemia se encontró diferencia significativa en ambos grupos en relación con el grado moderado (89 de 162 [54.9%] postparto y 33 de 46 [71.7%] en poscesárea). CONCLUSIONES: En la frecuencia de anemia puerperal se encontró una diferencia conforme al tipo de finalización del embarazo. La edad, grado de escolaridad, anemia gestacional, trastorno hipertensivo, hemorragia de la segunda mitad de embarazo y la placenta previa se identificaron como factores con diferencias significativas en la anemia, según el tipo de finalización del embarazo.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To describe and compare the obstetric characteristics of postpartum patients with anemia, with termination of pregnancy by delivery or cesarean section. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective, observational, descriptive and comparative study of patients with anemia in the postpartum period after childbirth and cesarean section attended at the Lircay Hospital in Huancavelica in 2020. The documentary analysis technique was applied and the instrument was a data collection form. RESULTS: A total of 162 deliveries and 46 cesarean sections were analyzed. In the pathological characteristics a significant difference was found: anemia in pregnancy (112 of 162; 69.1% postpartum and 23 of 46 [50% post cesarean]), hypertensive disorders (4 of 162; 2.5% postpartum and 8 of 46 [7.4% post cesarean]), hemorrhages in the second half of pregnancy (2 of 162 [1.2% postpartum] and 4 of 46 [8.7% post cesarean]). Regarding the degree of anemia, a significant difference was found in both groups in relation to moderate degree (89 of 162 [54.9%] postpartum and 33 of 46 [71.7%] postcesarean section). CONCLUSIONS: In the frequency of puerperal anemia, a difference was found according to the type of termination of pregnancy. Age, level of education, gestational anemia, hypertensive disorder, hemorrhage in the second half of pregnancy and placenta previa were identified as factors with significant differences in anemia, according to the type of termination of pregnancy.

Prevalence of gestational diabetes and gestational hypertension in pregnant women with pregestational obesity / Prevalencia de diabetes e hipertensión gestacional en embarazadas con obesidad pregestacional

Resumen OBJETIVO: Describir la prevalencia de diabetes gestacional e hipertensión arterial en pacientes embarazadas con obesidad pregestacional. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, transversal y descriptivo llevado a cabo en mujeres embarazadas con diagnóstico previo de obesidad (índice de masa corporal superior a 29.99) y con control prenatal. Parámetros evaluados: estilo de vida (alimentación, actividad física, consumo de alcohol, tabaco o alguna toxicomanía) y características físicas, clínicas y bioquímicas durante el embarazo actual por trimestre (índice de masa corporal, glucosa, presión arterial sistólica y diastólica). El diagnóstico de diabetes gestacional se estableció mediante una prueba de tolerancia a la glucosa entre las semanas 24 y 28 de embarazo. La hipertensión gestacional se diagnosticó por cifras de presión arterial mayores e iguales a 140-90 mmHg a partir de la semana 20 de embarazo y en ausencia de proteinuria. El análisis estadístico incluyó porcentajes, promedios e intervalos de confianza. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de diabetes gestacional en embarazadas con obesidad fue 13.7% (IC95%: 9.6 a 17.9) y la de hipertensión gestacional en embarazadas con obesidad 7.4% (IC95%: 4.3 a 10.6). CONCLUSIÓN: La obesidad es un factor conocido de riesgos, en particular de diabetes e hipertensión en el embarazo. Su alta prevalencia hace necesario implementar campañas de prevención que favorezcan su reducción.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence of gestational diabetes and arterial hypertension in pregnant patients with pre-pregnancy obesity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective, cross-sectional and descriptive study in pregnant women with a diagnosis of obesity prior to pregnancy (body mass index greater than 29.99) and with prenatal care. The sample size was 269 pregnant women. Lifestyle (diet, physical activity, alcohol, tobacco or drug addiction) and physical, clinical and biochemical characteristics during the current pregnancy were evaluated by gestational trimester (body mass index, glucose, systolic and diastolic blood pressure). The diagnosis of gestational diabetes was established by a glucose tolerance test between the 24th and 28th week of gestation and gestational hypertension was diagnosed by blood pressure figures greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg from the 20th week of gestation and in the absence of proteinuria. Statistical analysis included percentages, means, and confidence intervals. RESULTS: The prevalence of gestational diabetes in obese pregnant women was 13.7% (95%CI: 9.6-17.9) and the prevalence of gestational hypertension in obese pregnant women was 7.4% (95%CI: 4.3-10.6). CONCLUSION: Obesity is a known risk factor, particularly for diabetes and hypertension in pregnancy. Its high prevalence makes it necessary to implement prevention campaigns to reduce it.

Diabetes among women with preterm births: outcomes of a Brazilian multicenter study

ABSTRACT Objective The objective was to compare the maternal and perinatal characteristics and outcomes between women with and without diabetes in a Brazilian cohort of women with preterm births. Methods This was an ancillary analysis of the Brazilian Multicenter Study on Preterm Birth, which included 4,150 preterm births. This analysis divided preterm births into two groups according to the presence of diabetes; pregestational and gestational diabetes were clustered in the same Diabetes Group. Differences between both groups were assessed using χ 2 or Student's t tests. Results Preterm births of 133 and 4,017 women with and without diabetes, respectively, were included. The prevalence of diabetes was 3.2%. Pregnant women aged ≥35 years were more common in the Diabetes Group (31.6% versus 14.0% non-diabetic women, respectively). The rate of cesarean section among patients with diabetes was 68.2% versus 52.3% in non-diabetic cases), with a gestational age at birth between 34 and 36 weeks in 78.9% of the cases and 62.1% of the controls. Large-for-gestational-age babies were 7 times more common in the Diabetes Group. Conclusion Preterm birth among Brazilian women with diabetes was more than twice as prevalent; these women were older and had regular late preterm deliveries, usually by cesarean section. They also had a greater frequency of fetal morbidities, such as malformations and polyhydramnios, and a higher proportion of large-for-gestational-age and macrosomic neonates.

Maternal-fetal outcomes of women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on women admitted with hypertensive disorders of pregnancies to a university maternity hospital from August 2020 to August 2022. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Variables associated with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes were compared using multivariable binomial regression. RESULTS: Of 501 women with pregnancies, 2, 35, 14, and 49% had eclampsia, preeclampsia, chronic hypertension, and gestational hypertension, respectively. Women with preeclampsia/eclampsia had significantly higher risks of cesarean section (79.4 vs. 65%; adjusted RR, 2,139; 95%CI, 1,386-3,302; p=0.001) and preterm delivery at <34 weeks' gestation (20.5 vs. 6%; adjusted RR, 2.5; 95%CI, 1.19-5.25; p=0.01) than those of women with chronic/gestational hypertension. Risks of prolonged maternal hospitalization (43.9 vs. 27.1%), neonatal intensive care unit admission (30.7 vs. 19.8%), and perinatal mortality (23.5 vs. 11.2%) were higher among women with preeclampsia/eclampsia. CONCLUSIONS: Women with preeclampsia/eclampsia had a higher risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes than those with chronic or gestational hypertension. This major maternity care center requires strategies for preventing and managing preeclampsia/eclampsia to improve pregnancy outcomes.

Maternal Mercury Exposure and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: A Systematic Review / Exposição materna a mercúrio e distúrbios hipertensivos na gestação: Uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective The present review aimed to synthesize the evidence regarding mercury (Hg) exposure and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). Data Sources The PubMed, BVS/LILACS, SciELO and UFRJ's Pantheon Digital Library databases were systematically searched through June 2021. Study Selection Observational analytical articles, written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, without time restriction. Data Collection We followed the PICOS strategy, and the methodological quality was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Data Synthesis We retrieved 77 articles, of which 6 met the review criteria. They comprised 4,848 participants, of which 809 (16.7%) had HDP and 4,724 (97.4%) were environmentally exposed to Hg (fish consumption and dental amalgam). Mercury biomarkers evaluated were blood (four studies) and urine (two studies). Two studies found a positive association between Hg and HDP in the group with more exposure, and the other four did not present it. The quality assessment revealed three satisfactory and three good-rated studies (mean: 19.3 ± 1.6 out 28 points). The absence or no proper adjustment for negative confounding factor, such as fish consumption, was observed in five studies. Conclusion We retrieved only six studies, although Hg is a widespread toxic metal and pregnancy is a period of heightened susceptibility to environmental threats and cardiovascular risk. Overall, our review showed mixed results, with two studies reporting a positive association in the group with more exposure. However, due to the importance of the subject, additional studies are needed to elucidate the effects of Hg on HDP, with particular attention to adjusting negative confounding.

Resumo Objetivo A presente revisão busca sintetizar as evidências em relação à exposição ao mercúrio (Hg) e os distúrbios hipertensivos da gestação (DHG). Fontes Dos Dados Os bancos de dados PubMed, BVS/LILACS, SciELO e a Biblioteca Digital da UFRJ Pantheon foram sistematicamente pesquisadas durante junho de 2021. Seleção de estudos Artigos observacionais analíticos, escritos em inglês, espanhol ou português, sem restrição temporal. Coleta de Dados A estratégia PICOS foi seguida e a qualidade metodológica foi avaliada usando o checklist Downs and Black. Síntese de dados Foram encontrados 77 artigos, dos quais 6 atenderam aos critérios da revisão. Foram 4.848 participantes, dos quais 80 (16,7%) tinham DHG e 4.724 (97,4%) estavam expostos ambientalmente ao Hg (consumo de peixe e amálgama dental). Os biomarcadores de mercúrio avaliados foram sangue (quatro estudos) e urina (dois estudos). Dois estudos encontraram associação positiva entre Hg e DHG no grupo com maior exposição e os outros quatro não a apresentaram. A avaliação de qualidade metodológica revelou 3 estudos satisfatórios e 3 bons (média: 19,3 ± 1,6 em 28 pontos). A ausência ou não de ajuste adequado para fator de confusão negativo, como consumo de pescado, foi observada em cinco estudos. Conclusão Recuperamos apenas seis estudos, embora o Hg seja um metal tóxico generalizado e a gravidez seja um período de maior suscetibilidade a ameaças ambientais e risco cardiovascular. No geral, nossa revisão mostrou resultados mistos, com dois estudos relatando associação positiva no grupo com maior exposição. No entanto, devido à importância do assunto, estudos adicionais são necessários para elucidar os efeitos do Hg sobre DHG, com atenção especial ao ajuste de confundimento negativo.