Risk factors of late-onset gestational diabetes diagnosed during 24-28 weeks of gestation after normal early screening: a case-control study.

Objective: To determine the risk factors associated with late-onset GDM (diagnosed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation) after normal early screening. Methods: A case-control study was conducted in 600 singleton pregnant women who started antenatal care before 20 weeks with normal early GDM screening. Repeat screening was performed at 24-28 weeks. Cases were 120 women with late-onset GDM and 480 controls were those without GDM. Risk factors for late-onset GDM were evaluated and pregnancy outcomes were compared. Results: Cases were significantly older, and more likely to be overweight or obese. 50-g GCT of ≥ 160 mg/dL and abnormal 1 value of 100-g OGTT significantly increased the risk of late-onset GDM (p = 0.004 and < 0.001 respectively). Independent risk factors were abnormal 1 value of 100-g OGTT from first screening (adjusted OR 5.49, 95% CI 2.70-11.17, p < 0.001), age ≥ 30 years (adjusted OR 2.71, 95% CI 1.66-4.43, p < 0.001), DM in family (adjusted OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.07-2.88, p = 0.025), and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (adjusted OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.17-2.97, p = 0.009). Late-onset GDM significantly increased the risk of preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, LGA, and macrosomia. Conclusion: Independent factors associated with late-onset GDM included abnormal 1 value of 100-g OGTT from first screening, age ≥ 30 years, DM in family, and being overweight or obese.

The Association Between Body Fat Index and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND:  Body mass index (BMI) has commonly been used to evaluate the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but BMI does not always represent body fat mass distribution. Body fat index (BFI), which includes the measurement of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT), has been suggested to be a better predictor for GDM than BMI. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to compare the risk of GDM among pregnant females with BFI of >0.5 and ≤0.5. METHODS: Maternal abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) thickness were measured by ultrasonography before 14 weeks of gestation, and BFI was calculated (VAT×SAT/height). The study group was 160 females with BFI of >0.5, and the comparison group was 80 females with BFI of ≤0.5. All females received GDM screening during the first antenatal visit and at 24-28 weeks of gestation. The rate of GDM was compared between the two groups. The correlation between BFI and BMI and their diagnostic ability for GDM were evaluated. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the independent associated factors for GDM. RESULTS: Females with BFI of >0.5 were significantly older (p=0.033) and had higher body mass index (BMI) (p<0.001) and were more likely to be overweight or obese (p<0.001). BFI correlated well with BMI (correlation coefficient of 0.736, p<0.001). GDM was significantly more common in females with BFI of >0.5 (24.4% versus 11.3%, p=0.017). The diagnostic ability for GDM between BFI and BMI was similar (areas under receiver operating characteristic {ROC} curves of 0.641 and 0.646, respectively). Significant independent risk factors for GDM were a BFI of >0.5 and a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2 (adjusted odds ratio {OR}, 3.8; 95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.5-9.2), age of ≥30 years (adjusted OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.2-6.4), and family history of diabetes mellitus (DM) (adjusted OR, 4.0; 95% CI, 1.9-8.3). CONCLUSION: Females with BFI of >0.5 were significantly more likely to have GDM. The diagnostic ability of BFI and BMI for GDM was comparable. Females with BFI of >0.5 and BMI of ≥25 kg/m2 have an increased risk for GDM.

Prevalence and related factors of inappropriate gestational weight gain among pregnant women with overweight/ obesity in Thailand.

BACKGROUND: An inappropriate gestational weight gain (GWG) among pregnant women with overweight/obesity is a crucial health problem. Its prevalence remains high worldwide, particularly in urban areas. The prevalence and predicting factors in Thailand are lack of evidence. This study aimed to investigate prevalence rates, antenatal care (ANC) service arrangement, predictive factors, and impacts of inappropriate GWG among pregnant women with overweight/obesity in Bangkok and its surrounding metropolitan area. METHODS: This cross-sectional, retrospective study used four sets of questionnaires investigating 685 pregnant women with overweight/obesity and 51 nurse-midwives (NMs) from July to December 2019 in ten tertiary hospitals. Multinomial logistic regression identified predictive factors with a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULT: The prevalence rates of excessive and inadequate GWG were 62.34% and 12.99%. Weight management for pregnant women with overweight/obesity are unavailable in tertiary cares. Over three-fourths of NMs have never received weight management training for this particular group. ANC service factors, i.e., GWG counseling by ANC providers, quality of general ANC service at an excellent and good level, NMs' positive attitudes toward GWG control, significantly decreased the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of inadequate GWG by 0.03, 0.01, 0.02, 0.20, times, respectively. While maternal factors, sufficient income, and easy access to low-fat foods reduce AOR of inadequate GWG by 0.49, and 0.31 times. In contrast, adequate maternal GWG knowledge statistically increased the AOR of inadequate GWG 1.81 times. Meanwhile, easy access to low-fat foods and internal weight locus of control (WLOC) decreased the AOR of excessive GWG by 0.29 and 0.57 times. Finally, excessive GWG significantly increased the risk of primary C/S, fetal LGA, and macrosomia 1.65, 1.60, and 5.84 times, respectively, while inadequate GWG was not associated with adverse outcomes. CONCLUSION: Prevalence rates of inappropriate GWG, especially excessive GWG remained high and affected adverse outcomes. The quality of ANC service provision and appropriate GWG counseling from ANC providers are significant health service factors. Thus, NMs should receive gestational weight counseling and management training to improve women's knowledge and practice for gestational weight (GW) control.

Rate of Spontaneous Preterm Delivery Between Pregnant Women With and Without Gestational Diabetes.

Objective The aim of this study is to compare the rate of spontaneous preterm delivery between gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and normal pregnancy. Pregnancy outcomes and associated risk factors for spontaneous preterm delivery were evaluated. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 120 GDM and 480 normal pregnant women. All women received GDM screening with 50-g glucose challenge test and 100-g oral glucose tolerance test at the first visit and repeated at 24-28 weeks. Data were retrieved from medical records and included baseline and obstetric characteristics, preterm risks, GDM risks, and pregnancy outcomes. Spontaneous preterm birth was defined as delivery before 37 completed weeks of gestation that had been preceded by spontaneous labor. Results GDM women were more likely to be ≥30 years (p=0.032) and have previous GDM (p=0.013). Incidence of overall preterm delivery was significantly higher in GDM women (17.5% vs. 8.5%, p=0.004), as well as the incidence of spontaneous preterm delivery (15.8% vs. 7.1%, p=0.004). GDM women had less gestational weight gain (p<0.001) and were less likely to have excessive weight gain (p=0.002). GDM women were more likely to deliver large for gestational age (LGA) (p=0.02) and macrosomic infants (p=0.027). Neonatal hypoglycemia was significantly more common among GDM women (p=0.013). Multivariate analysis showed that previous preterm birth and GDM independently increased the risk of spontaneous preterm delivery (adjusted OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.13-5.79, p=0.024, and adjusted OR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.2-3.84, p = 0.010, respectively). Conclusion GDM and previous preterm birth significantly increased the risk of spontaneous preterm delivery. GDM also increased the risk of LGA, macrosomia, and neonatal hypoglycemia.

The Variants in ADIPOQ are Associated with Maternal Circulating Adipokine Profile in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common association with hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance during pregnancy. The adipokines play an important to control insulin secretion and glucose. This study aimed to investigate the association between maternal circulating adipokine levels and ADIPOQ gene polymorphism among pregnant women subjects with GDM and normal glucose tolerance (NGT). Methods: Participants including 229 normal pregnant women and 197 GDM pregnant women were enrolled from 2015 to 2018 at Siriraj hospital. Serum adipokine levels including adiponectin, adipsin/factor D, NGAL/Lipocalin-2, total PAI-1, and resistin were measured by immunoassay. ADIPOQ variations were investigated including -11377C/G (rs266729), +45T/G (rs2241766), and +276G/T (rs1501299). Results: Serum adiponectin concentration was also significantly decreased among the GDM who had aged less than 35 years old whereas adipsin levels were significantly lower among the GDM who had aged more than 35 years old. Also, adiponectin and total PAI-1 levels were significantly lower among the GDM who had a BMI of less than 30 kg/m2. The G allele frequency of ADIPOQ +45T/G was significantly different between GDM and controls (p = 0.03). ADIPOQ +45T/G was associated with an increased risk of GDM (odds ratio [OR]: 1.554; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.010-2.390; p=0.045). The -11377C/G was affected by the level of adiponectin (p = 0.04). The C allele of -11377C/G SNP declined serum adiponectin levels and may be a risk factor for GDM. Conclusion: This study revealed that genetics play important roles in circulating adipokines among pregnant women. ADIPOQ polymorphisms had significant associations with adiponectin levels in GDM patients.

The genetic polymorphisms and levels of adipokines and adipocytokines that influence the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus in Thai pregnant women.

INTRODUCTION: Aberrant immune and inflammatory response is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). OBJECTIVE: To investigate the genetic polymorphisms and levels of adipokines/adipocytokines that influence the risk of developing GDM in Thai women. RESEARCH DESIGN & METHODS: This case-control recruited 400 pregnant Thai women. A total of 12 gene polymorphisms at ADIPOQ, adipsin, lipocalin-2, PAI-1, resistin, IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-17A, TGF-ß, IL-10, IL-6, and TNF-α were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay and RNase H2 enzyme-based amplification (rhAmp) SNP assay. Serum levels of adipokines/adipocytokines were evaluated using Luminex assays. RESULTS: Mean age, weight before and during pregnancy, body mass index before and during pregnancy, blood pressure, gestational age at blood collection, and median 50 g glucose challenge test were significantly higher in GDM women than control. Significantly lower adiponectin and higher IL-4 levels were found in GDM compared to controls (p = 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). The genotype frequencies of IL-17A (rs3819025) were significantly different between GDM and controls (p = 0.01). Using additive models, IL-17A (rs3819025) and. TNF-α (rs1800629) were found to be independently associated with increased risk of GDM (odds ratio [OR]: 2.867; 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.171-7.017; p = 0.021; and OR: 12.163; 95 %CI: 1.368-108.153; p = 0.025, respectively). In GDM with IL-17A (rs3819025), there was a significant negative correlation with lipocalin-2 and PAI-1 levels (p = 0.038 and p = 0.004, respectively). CONCLUSION: The results of this study highlight the need for genetic testing to predict/prevent GDM, and the importance of evaluating adipokine/adipocytokine levels in Thai GDM women.

Rates of small for gestational age and low birth weight among underweight and normal weight women.

BACKGROUND: Prepregnancy underweight, and gestational weight gain has been associated with increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, low birthweight (LBW) and small for gestational age (SGA), but with conflicting results. The objectives were to compare the incidence of SGA, LBW, and other pregnancy outcomes between prepregnancy underweight and normal weight women and to evaluate possible associated risk factors. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 220 underweight women (prepregnancy BMI of <18.5 kg/m2) and 440 normal weight women (prepregnancy BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2). Data were extracted from medical records and compared between the 2 groups, including baseline and obstetric characteristics, labor and delivery data, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes. RESULTS: Underweight women were significantly younger and more likely to be nulliparous. They were significantly more likely to have weight gain below recommendation (33.6% vs. 23.2%, P<0.001). SGA and LBW were significantly more common in underweight compared to normal weight women (10.9% vs. 7%, P=0.034 and 13.2 vs. 7.3%, P=0.013, respectively). Other adverse neonatal outcomes were comparable. Logistic regression analysis showed that inadequate weight gain was the independent risk for both SGA and LBW (adjusted OR 2.20, 95%CI 1.19-4.09, P=0.012) and adjusted OR 2.31, 95%CI 1.28-4.159, P=0.005, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Risk of both SGA and LBW were significantly increased in underweight compared to normal weight women. Inadequate weight gain was independently associated with increased risk of both SGA and LBW.

Incidence of Preeclampsia and Cesarean Section Rate According to the Robson Classification.

Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of preeclampsia and associated cesarean section (CS) rate according to the Robson classification. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 670 women who delivered at a tertiary care hospital in Thailand during January to March 2023. All women were classified into 10 groups according to the Robson classification, and preeclampsia was identified. Overall and group-specific incidence of preeclampsia and CS rate were estimated. Comparison of CS rate was made between those with and without preeclampsia using the Chi-squared test. Relative risks (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were estimated. Results The majority of women were in group 1 (34%) and group 3 (30.7%). Overall CS rate was 40.6% with highest contribution from group 1, 5, and 10. Incidence of preeclampsia was 9.1%, and the majority were in groups 10 (29.5%) and 1 (23%). Preeclampsia significantly increased the rate of overall CS (RR 1.8, p<0.001). The risk of CS significantly increased in group 1 (RR 1.8, p=0.043), group 3 (RR 3.5, p=0.025), and group 10 (RR 1.9, p=0.006). Preeclampsia accounted for 15.4% of all CS, with the highest contribution in group 2 (37.5%), group 10 (31.1%), group 3 (16.7%), and group 1 (10.8%). Without preeclampsia, the overall CS rate was relatively reduced by 6.9%, with the largest relative reduction in group 10 (14.3%), group 3 (11.5%), group 2 (6.3%), and group 1 (5.2%). Conclusion The incidence of preeclampsia was 9.1%, and preeclampsia significantly increased the rate of overall CS. Without preeclampsia, overall CS rate relatively reduced by 6.9% but did not significantly change the relative contribution of CS according to the Robson classification.

Upregulation of microRNA-223 expression in gingival crevicular blood of women with gestational diabetes mellitus and periodontitis.

Background/Purpose: MicroRNA-223 (miR-223) is involved in several inflammatory diseases, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and periodontitis. We first described a procedure for purifying miR-223 from gingival crevicular blood (GCB) of pregnant women with or without GDM and periodontitis. This study aimed to determine whether GDM and/or periodontitis modifies miR-223 expression in pregnant women and to analyze miR-223-targeted messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels in GCB compared to peripheral blood (PB). Materials and methods: Pregnant women were allocated to 4 groups: 10 women with GDM and periodontitis (GDM/P), 10 women with GDM without periodontitis (GDM/NP), 9 women with periodontitis and without GDM (NGDM/P) and 10 women without either condition (NGDM/NP). Clinical parameters of GDM and periodontal status were examined. GCB and PB were collected to assess miR-223, ICAM-1, IL-1ß and ß1-integrin gene expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: The GDM/P group demonstrated the highest miR-223 expression levels among the 4 groups in GCB. A significant difference was found between GDM/P and GDM/NP group (P = 0.04). In contrast, the GDM/P showed the lowest miR-223 expression level in PB among the 4 groups. Moreover, ICAM-1 and IL-1ß mRNA expression exhibited the opposite trend of miRNA-223, indicating that miRNA-223 might regulate the mRNA function of those genes by epigenetic events. Conclusion: The upregulation of miR-223 expression in GCB but downregulation in PB, ICAM-1 and IL-1ß genes expression in women with GDM and periodontitis suggest a promising role of miR-223 in the association between GDM and periodontitis.

Accuracy of capillary blood glucose for 50-g glucose challenge test for gestational diabetes screening.

Purpose: To assess the accuracy of capillary blood glucose (CBG) compared to conventional venous plasma glucose (VPG) testing for 50-g glucose challenge test (GCT) in gestational diabetes (GDM) screening. Methods: A total of 300 women were enrolled and 50-g GCT for GDM screening was offered. At 1 h after glucose loading, CBG was evaluated by CONTOUR® PLUS glucose meter by well-trained nurses immediately after venipuncture for VPG. Results of CBG were compared with those from VPG to evaluate its accuracy. Women with venous plasma glucose > 140 mg/dL were offered 100-g OGTT for GDM diagnosis. Results: The mean age was 30.2 years and the mean gestational age at testing was 21.8 weeks. GDM was diagnosed in 34 women (11.3%). The mean VPG was 142.1 ± 32.9 mg/dL and the mean CBG was 129.3 ± 33.5 mg/dL. Mean difference was -12.3 ± 12.5 mg/dL, corresponding to -8.8 ± 11.4%. CBG significantly correlated with VPG with correlation coefficient of 0.929, p < 0.001. In the detection of abnormal 50-g GCT results (VPG ≥ 140 mg/dL), at 126 mg/dL cutoff, CBG had sensitivity of 92.5%, specificity of 81.8%, and positive and negative predictive values of 82.8%and 92%. None of the GDM would have been missed if CBG was used. Conclusion: CBG by a certified glucose meter could be considered as an alternative to conventional VPG testing for 50-g GCT for GDM screening using 126 mg/dL cutoff value.

Early universal screening of gestational diabetes in a university hospital in Thailand.

A total of 1016 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic before 20 weeks of gestation during September 2018 to February 2019 were included in a cohort study with repeated cross-sectional assessments. The study was aimed to determine prevalence and characteristics of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and pregnancy outcomes by early universal screening approach. GDM screening was performed during first visit and repeated during 24-28 weeks of gestation, as necessary, using a 50-g glucose challenge test followed by a 100-g oral glucose tolerance test for GDM diagnosis. Overall prevalence of GDM was 18.6%. A significantly higher prevalence of GDM was observed among high-risk than low-risk women (21.3% vs. 13.1%, p = 0.002). GDM among low-risk women contributed to 23.3% of all GDM cases. The majority of GDM (76.2%) were diagnosed before 20 weeks of gestation, with 74.5% occurring in high-risk women and 81.8% occurring in low-risk women. When initial screening tests were normal, risk of GDM diagnosed during 24-28 weeks was 6.0% (7.5% among high-risk women and 3.1% among low-risk women). Compared to those without GDM, women with GDM significantly had lower gestational weight gain (p < 0.001), higher prevalence of preeclampsia (p = 0.001), large for gestational age (LGA) (p = 0.034) and macrosomia (p = 0.004). These outcomes were more pronounced among high-risk women with GDM. Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Universal GDM screening is recommended during 24-28 weeks of gestation, either by 1- or 2-step approach. Some also recommend early GDM screening among high-risk women. Prevalence of early-onset GDM varies between studies and benefits of early diagnosis and treatment are still controversial.What do the results of this study add? Early universal GDM screening identified more women with GDM and majority could be diagnosed before 20 weeks of gestation. GDM among low-risk women contributed to 23.3% of all cases. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were more common among high-risk women with GDM. This approach could be useful and can be implemented in other settings, especially those that serve high-risk population or with high GDM prevalence.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Early universal GDM screening should be considered in settings with high prevalence of GDM and high-risk women. However, benefits of early detection and treatment of GDM should be determined in more details in the future, especially in terms of cost-effectiveness and improvement in pregnancy outcomes.

Proteomics Studies in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is the most common metabolic complication during pregnancy and is associated with serious maternal and fetal complications such as pre-eclampsia and stillbirth. Further, women with GDM have approximately 10 times higher risk of diabetes later in life. Children born to mothers with GDM also face a higher risk of childhood obesity and diabetes later in life. Early prediction/diagnosis of GDM leads to early interventions such as diet and lifestyle, which could mitigate the maternal and fetal complications associated with GDM. However, no biomarkers identified to date have been proven to be effective in the prediction/diagnosis of GDM. Proteomic approaches based on mass spectrometry have been applied in various fields of biomedical research to identify novel biomarkers. Although a number of proteomic studies in GDM now exist, a lack of a comprehensive and up-to-date meta-analysis makes it difficult for researchers to interpret the data in the existing literature. Thus, we undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis on proteomic studies and GDM. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and Scopus from inception to January 2022. We searched Medline, Embase, CINHAL and the Cochrane Library, which were searched from inception to February 2021. We included cohort, case-control and observational studies reporting original data investigating the development of GDM compared to a control group. Two independent reviewers selected eligible studies for meta-analysis. Data collection and analyses were performed by two independent reviewers. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42020185951. Of 120 articles retrieved, 24 studies met the eligibility criteria, comparing a total of 1779 pregnant women (904 GDM and 875 controls). A total of 262 GDM candidate biomarkers (CBs) were identified, with 49 CBs reported in at least two studies. We found 22 highly replicable CBs that were significantly different (nine CBs were upregulated and 12 CBs downregulated) between women with GDM and controls across various proteomic platforms, sample types, blood fractions and time of blood collection and continents. We performed further analyses on blood (plasma/serum) CBs in early pregnancy (first and/or early second trimester) and included studies with more than nine samples (nine studies in total). We found that 11 CBs were significantly upregulated, and 13 CBs significantly downregulated in women with GDM compared to controls. Subsequent pathway analysis using Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) bioinformatics resources found that these CBs were most strongly linked to pathways related to complement and coagulation cascades. Our findings provide important insights and form a strong foundation for future validation studies to establish reliable biomarkers for GDM.

Association between gestational diabetes mellitus and periodontitis via the effect of reactive oxygen species in peripheral blood cells.

BACKGROUND: Periodontitis (P) has emerged as a risk factor for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) through immune cell function alterations, elevated proinflammatory mediators, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS). The main objective of present study was to determine associations between pregnancy with and without GDM and P. The secondary objective was to compare ROS production in peripheral blood cells (PBCs) of pregnant women with and without GDM. METHODS: This cross-sectional case-control study included 128 pregnant women: 64 with and 64 without GDM. All participants were examined for clinical parameters of GDM and periodontal conditions. Associations between GDM-related periodontal data and GDM risk were evaluated by multiple logistic regression. PBCs were isolated and cultured. ROS productions in each PBCs types was investigated by flow cytometry with ROS antibodies. RESULTS: P was significantly more prevalent in pregnant women with GDM than in those without GDM (57.8% versus 37.5%), with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.28, and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.12 to 4.64 (P = 0.022). The OR (95% CI) was 2.59 (1.19 to 5.65) (P = 0.017) after adjusting for potential confounding factors, including diabetes mellitus (DM) family history, age ≥30 years, body mass index, and maternal age. ROS levels in all PBCs types were significantly higher in the GDM than in the non-GDM group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study supported the association between P and GDM and indicated that P may be a risk factor for GDM. High levels of ROS production in the PBCs of pregnant women with GDM emphasized the association with GDM.

A specific protocol to shorten the decision-to-delivery interval for emergency caesarean section.

The achievement of recommended decision-to-delivery interval (DDI) of ≤30 minutes in emergency caesarean section (CS) is relatively low in developing countries. This study was aimed to compare DDI in emergency CS before and after the implementation of a specific care process improvement protocol, called 'code blue'. A total of 300 women underwent emergency CS were included; 150 consecutive cases before (during 2015-2016) and the other 150 consecutive cases after (during 2017-2018) 'code blue' implementation. Timing of decision-to-delivery process was compared. The results showed that median DDI was significantly shorter after 'code blue' implementation (22 vs. 52.5 minutes, p<.001). DDI of ≤30 minutes was achieved in 80% of the women under 'code blue' compared to 8% before implementation (p<.001). Significant improvements were observed regardless of decision time. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes were comparable between the two periods. The implementation of 'code blue' protocol for emergency CS results in significantly shorter DDI and other time intervals.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Achievement of recommended decision-to-delivery interval (DDI) of ≤30 minutes in emergency caesarean section is relatively low in developing countries. Various setting-specific care improvement processes have been reported to shorten DDI.What do the results of this study add? A multidisciplinary care improvement process ('code blue') that developed according to specific evidence and based on a hospital's context can significantly shorten DDI as well as other time intervals in women requiring emergency CS.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The 'code blue' protocol could be used as a model for other hospitals and health care settings to develop their own specific quality improvement process in order to shorten DDI for emergency CS. Collaboration and communication between all staff members could help in better identification of significant barriers as well as development of appropriate solutions. Further studies are also needed to determine whether the shortened DDI could improve neonatal outcomes.

Ultrasound guidance versus the classical method for intrauterine insemination in oral medication-stimulated cycles: A randomized, single-blind, controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to compare the pregnancy rates of ultrasound-guided intrauterine insemination (UG-IUI) and classical intrauterine insemination (C-IUI) cycles. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 320 infertile women were enrolled and randomized into an UG-IUI group, and a C-IUI group. All participants received an oral medication for ovarian stimulation. With both groups, the IUIs were scheduled and performed by doctors in their residency and fellowship training, under supervision. The duration and difficulty of the procedures were assessed. A pregnancy test was offered 3 weeks later if the participants did not have menstruation. RESULTS: The demographic and other baseline characteristics of the groups (baseline hormone levels, cervical length, uterine position, endometrial thickness, and expertise of the providers) were comparable. The pregnancy rates were similar, with 6.9 % and 6.3 % for the UG-IUI and C-IUI groups, respectively. In the UG-IUI group, the pregnancy rate of the multigravida women was three times higher than that of the nulligravida women (15.4 % vs. 5.0 %; p = 0.13). Although the duration of the procedure was shorter for the UG-IUI group (p < 0.05), the level of difficulty was similar for the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: For oral-medication stimulated cycles, UG-IUI did not increase the pregnancy rate more than with C-IUI. However, the pregnancy rate tended to increase with UG-IUI for multigravida women.

Relationship between ABO blood group and gestational diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between the ABO blood group and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). METHODS: A case-control study was conducted in 600 pregnant women who received GDM screening with 50-g GCT and diagnosis by 100-g OGTT according to institutional guidelines. The cases included 200 women with GDM and another 400 normal pregnant women were randomly selected as controls. Various characteristics and ABO blood group were extracted from medical records and compared between cases and controls to determine their association with GDM. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine independent associated factors for GDM adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS: Univariate analysis showed that significant factors associated with GDM were age ≥30 years, family history of DM, overweight, and obesity. Only blood group O significantly increased risk of GDM (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.06-2.13, p = .020). Logistic regression analysis showed that blood group O independently increased the risk of GDM (adjusted OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.32-3.0, p = .001). The risk of GDM was enhanced in women with blood group O with family history of DM (adjusted OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.57-7.81, p = .002) while it was attenuated among those without (adjusted OR 1.6, 95% CI 0.97-2.64, p = .064). CONCLUSION: Blood group O independently increased the risk of GDM.

Incidence of large for gestational age and predictive values of third-trimester ultrasound among pregnant women with false-positive glucose challenge test.

This cohort study aimed to determine the association between false-positive 50-g GCT and incidence of LGA and to evaluate predictive roles of third-trimester ultrasonographic examination. A total of 200 women with false-positive 50-g GCT and 188 women without GDM risks were enrolled. Third-trimester ultrasonographic examinations were offered. Rate of LGA during third trimester and at birth were compared between groups. Factors associated with LGA and diagnostic properties of third-trimester ultrasonography were evaluated. Incidence of LGA by third-trimester ultrasound and at birth were significantly higher in women with false-positive GCT (19.0% vs. 10.6%, p = .03 and 22% vs. 13.8%; p = .04). Factors associated with LGA included multiparity (adjusted OR 2.32, p = .01), excessive weight gain (adjusted OR 2.57, p = .01) and LGA by ultrasound (adjusted OR 9.79, p < .001). Third-trimester ultrasonography had 47.1% sensitivity, 92.1% specificity and LR + and LR- of 5.96 and 0.57 in identifying LGA infants.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? Women with abnormal GCT but normal OGTT (false positive GCT) might have some degree of glucose intolerance so that GDM-related outcomes could develop, including LGA, macrosomia, shoulder dystocia, and caesarean delivery. Roles of ultrasonography in the prediction of LGA and macrosomia has been reported with mixed results.What do the results of this study add? The results showed that the incidence of LGA, by third-trimester ultrasound and at birth, were significantly increased in women with false-positive GCT. Multiparity, excessive weight gain and LGA by third-trimester ultrasound significantly increased the risk of LGA. Third-trimester ultrasonography had 47.1% sensitivity, 92.1% specificity and LR + and LR- of 5.96 and 0.57 in identifying LGA infants.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? More intensive behavioural and dietary interventions, together with weight gain control and monitoring, may be needed in women with false-positive GCT to minimise the risk of LGA. Third trimester ultrasonographic examination might be helpful to detect and predict LGA at birth and should be included into routine clinical practice. Further studies that are more widely generalisable are needed to elucidate the relationship between false-positive GCT and adverse pregnancy outcomes and to investigate the benefits of ultrasonographic examination in the prediction of LGA and macrosomia.

Prevalence of early-onset GDM and associated risk factors in a university hospital in Thailand.

This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine prevalence of GDM diagnosed before 24 weeks of gestation (early-onset GDM) and evaluate associated risk factors and compare pregnancy outcomes between different GDM status. A total of 1200 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic before 24 weeks of gestation were included. GDM screening was offered during first visit and repeat during 24-28 weeks of gestation, using 50-g GCT and 100-g OGTT. GDM was diagnosed in 110 women (13.9%) and early-onset GDM was found in 57 women (9.2%), which accounted for 65.9% of all GDM. Early-onset GDM had significant lower gestational weight gain and higher rates of preeclampsia, LGA infants, and NICU admission. Independent associated factors for early-onset GDM were age ≥30 years (aOR 4.89, 95%CI: 2.08-11.50, p < .001), and previous GDM (aOR 12.26, 95%CI: 3.86-38.93, p < .001) while DM in family was the only independent factor for late-onset GDM (aOR 2.53, 95%CI: 1.42-4.51, p = .002).IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Reported prevalence of early-onset GDM varies between studies, depending on the screening strategy and criteria used. Despite treatment, early-onset GDM has been associated with increased adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in many previous studies. The risks associated with early-onset GDM and the evidence for benefit of early treatment are still unclear.What do the results of this study add? The results showed that early-onset GDM accounted for majority (65.9%) of all GDM. Despite treatment, early-onset GDM increased risk of preeclampsia, LGA infants, and NICU admission. Independent associated factors for early-onset GDM were age ≥30 years, and previous GDM while DM in family was the only independent factor for late-onset GDM.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Early GDM screening and intensive management, especially in high-risk women, should be implemented to minimise the risks of adverse outcomes. Further studies are needed to determine appropriate criteria to define early-onset GDM and to identify women at higher risk in different population and settings with different screening strategies. Effective management and approaches for this subgroup of GDM should also be further investigated.

Fetal anterior abdominal wall thickness between gestational diabetes and normal pregnant women.

OBJECTIVES: To compare fetal anterior abdominal wall thickness (AAWT) between women with and without GDM during third trimester and to determine accuracy of AAWT to predict large for gestational age (LGA) infants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 250 pregnant women, including 125 women with GDM and 125 women without GDM, were enrolled. Tansabdominal ultrasonographic examinations were performed at 28-30, 32-34 and 36-38 weeks. In addition to standard fetal biometries, AAWT was measured. Patient characteristics and ultrasonographic measurements were compared between groups. Sensitivity and specificity of AAWT for identifying LGA were evaluated. RESULTS: While standard fetal biometries were comparable, mean fetal AAWT in GDM women were significantly higher than those without GDM at 28-30 weeks (2.8 ± 0.8 vs. 2.6 ± 0.6, p = 0.006) and 32-34 weeks (4.0 ± 0.9 vs. 3.5 ± 0.8, p = 0.042). LGA infants had significantly higher fetal AAWT at each time point only in GDM women. Using cut off values of AAWT of ≥2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 mm at 28-30, 32-34, and 36-38 weeks, sensitivity for LGA diagnosis in GDM women were 94.4%, 93.9%, and 89.3%, respectively. The use of abdominal circumference (AC) at >90th percentile showed lower sensitivity but higher specificity, regardless of GDM status. Combination of both measurements increased sensitivity to approximately 90% or higher in every time point, especially among GDM women. CONCLUSION: Significant increase in fetal AAWT was observed in GDM women at 28-30 and 32-34 weeks. Fetal AAWT significantly increased among LGA infants and had higher sensitivity than AC in identifying LGA during third trimester. In GDM women at 28-30 weeks, AAWT ≥2.0 mm and AC >90th percentile had 97.2% sensitivity for LGA diagnosis.