A study published in Human Reproduction found that smoking by mothers during the periconceptional period is associated with delayed embryonic development, smaller foetuses at the 20-week ultrasound scan, and lower birth weights. The delay in embryonic development was found to have a greater impact in the second trimester of pregnancy.
A study in rats found that mothers with sleep apnea during pregnancy may have an increased risk of their male offspring developing autism-like behaviors, including impaired cognitive and social function. The findings suggest a potential mechanism for the link between maternal sleep apnea and neurodevelopmental disorders.
A Zika virus vaccine candidate has been shown to prevent fetal malformations and detect maternal antibodies in pregnant animals. The vaccine has demonstrated high levels of protection against Zika infection in both mice and marmosets, with over 90% effectiveness observed.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that fetal MRI can detect at least one other abnormality in almost 57% of fetuses with heart defects. Additionally, approximately a quarter of all fetuses had structural brain abnormalities, regardless of the severity of the heart defect.
Researchers from Duke-NUS Medical School found that Zika virus infection disrupts the glucose metabolism pathway in infected foetuses, leading to birth defects and death. A potential supplement, pyruvic acid, may protect foetuses from these impacts.
A new study published in Science Translational Medicine found that male placentas have increased immune activation and receive fewer anti-COVID antibodies from their mothers. This may help protect male fetuses but pose risks to the fetus and child.
A new study found a significant increase in adverse outcomes for COVID-19 positive pregnant women, including gestational diabetes, low white blood cell counts, and heavier bleeding during delivery. Respiratory complications were also witnessed in their babies, highlighting the importance of vaccinating all pregnant women against COVID-19.
Researchers discovered three phases of growth that explain how cetaceans shift their nasal passage from a parallel to an angled orientation. This finding provides insight into the developmental process and could inform our understanding of cetacean evolution.
A new ultrasonic method improves fetal weight prediction accuracy by analyzing three-dimensional limb volumes and abdominal circumferences. The algorithm outperforms traditional formulas in predicting macrosomia and birth weights.
A Finnish study published in Acta Diabetologica found that gestational diabetes significantly increases the risk of fetal hypoxia during labor. The risk is nearly seven-fold compared to non-diabetic mothers, and can lead to birth injuries, brain damage, and infant mortality.
The Astra project aims to develop a realistic simulation technology using Unreal video game engine and Magic Leap augmented reality glasses. The system will focus on twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) training, using live surgery recordings and deep learning networks to create a natural environment for surgeons.
A study by Children's National Hospital researchers found that maternal anxiety during pregnancy can alter neural connectivity in the womb. Fetuses of anxious mothers showed stronger connections between the brainstem and sensorimotor areas, while those with lower anxiety had weaker connections between executive cognitive functions.
A recent study found that only half of pregnant women worldwide who need Rh disease treatment actually receive it. The study, published in PLOS One, estimates that complications of Rh disease may be linked to the deaths of at least 50,000 fetuses and 114,000 newborns annually globally.
A study published in EBiomedicine reveals a genetic link between the HLA-G gene and preeclampsia. The researchers found that certain alternative forms of the HLA-G gene are connected to the male-to-female ratio at birth, fetal survival, and pregnancy complications.
New research reveals anti-abortionists using civil rights protections to lobby against early abortions. Pro-lifers compare fetuses to Black Americans and LGBTQIA people to strengthen their case, misrepresenting medical facts in the process.
Researchers found that pregnant women exposed to persistent organic pollutants had slightly smaller fetuses than those who were not exposed. The study analyzed ultrasound scans and blood samples from over 2,200 pregnant women, finding a significant association between exposure to POPs and reduced fetal growth.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that mild Zika virus infection in fetuses can lead to abnormal brain development and impaired immunity in young animals. The research provides new insights into the potential outcomes of Zika virus infection and could point to new prevention and treatment strategies.
Researchers analyzing almost 8,000 pregnancies in South Korea found fetal growth was abnormally large at 20-24 weeks for women later diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Early screening and monitoring may improve health outcomes for mothers and babies.
A new study from the University of Cambridge has identified a link between high levels of estrogen in the womb and an increased risk of developing autism. The research found that prenatal estrogen levels were significantly higher in male fetuses who later developed autism compared to those who did not.
Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found a wide difference in language exposure among fetuses, ranging from five hours to two hours and 45 minutes. This study aims to inform best practices for NICU care and understand the impact on early brain development.
A major breakthrough in artificial womb technology has demonstrated its ability to support extremely preterm babies equivalent to a human fetus at 24 weeks of gestation. The study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology shows that the technology can maintain stable, growth-normal state for five days.
Researchers analyzed temporal and demographic patterns in gestational syphilis and mother-to-child-transmission of syphilis in a Brazilian region. They found no annual endemic period, but increased cases during February and a failure in the notification system.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that foetuses with balanced chromosomal aberrations have a higher risk of developing brain disorders such as autism and mental retardation than previously thought. The risk is 20% for these foetuses according to the study.
International experts discuss six fetal growth size standards, their strengths and limitations. The INTERGROWTH-21st standard assumes uniform fetal growth rates across ethnic groups, while the customized GROW standard considers maternal and fetal characteristics.
Researchers found that relatives of Zika virus can damage developing fetuses in mice and replicate in human tissues, raising concerns about other emerging viruses causing birth defects. The study suggests that flavivirus infections might cause pregnancy complications more frequently than previously appreciated.
A new study from Washington University School of Medicine found that West Nile and Powassan viruses can cause brain damage and fetal death in mice, similar to Zika. The study suggests that these flaviviruses may also pose a risk to developing fetuses in humans.
A powerful antiviral protein acts as a checkpoint for keeping or ending pregnancy. Mouse fetuses with the protein commit cell suicide when exposed to Zika virus, while those without it continue to develop. The study suggests that this signaling pathway plays a role in spontaneous abortions and other human pregnancy complications.
Researchers have found a potential new treatment for fetal growth restriction, a condition where the fetus doesn't grow at a normal rate during pregnancy. The treatment involves injecting a growth factor into sheep fetuses, which increased their growth without increasing stillbirths or deaths.
A recent NIH study found that obese pregnant women are more likely to give birth to large infants, with fetuses experiencing longer bones and higher birth weights. This increased fetal growth may predispose these infants to obesity and cardiovascular disease later in life.
Researchers at University of Kansas have discovered that fetuses can discriminate between languages with distinct rhythmic properties, suggesting language development may start in the womb. The study uses magnetocardiogram technology to measure fetal heart rate responses to speech sounds, revealing an early sensitivity to language rhythm.
Researchers found that fetuses at 34 weeks gestation turn their heads to look at face-like images, indicating a possible instinctual preference for faces. This discovery suggests that babies' preference for faces begins in the womb and does not require learning or experience after birth.
Research on 48 fetuses exposed to Zika found that three had abnormal fetal MRIs, including heterotopia, parietal encephalocele, and thin corpus callosum. The vast majority of fetuses had normal MRI results, but long-term neurological outcomes remain uncertain.
The Nimba toad's unique matrotrophic viviparity allows females to give live birth to fully developed juveniles after nine months. The species' isolated habitat and harsh environment are thought to have driven the evolution of this complex reproductive cycle.
Researchers discovered a reduction in brain tissue and increased fluid accumulation in the upper brain of Zika-infected fetuses. The study, which included 7 cases, found a significant difference in total brain volume and intracranial volume between Zika-exposed fetuses and healthy controls.
Research found that blood flow in fetuses of diabetic mothers is redirected to the placenta, diverting away from the brain. The study used foetal Doppler echocardiography and a computerized model to analyze blood circulation.
The study found that nearly all babies with confirmed and presumed Zika infections had ventriculomegaly, gray and white matter volume loss, and cortical migrational abnormalities. Imaging exams also revealed intracranial calcifications and reduced tissue volume in the brain.
A study of nearly 350,000 adults found that expanded carrier screening increased detection of carrier status for potentially serious genetic conditions compared to current recommendations. Expanded testing identified more fetuses at risk than guideline-based screening, which was based on self-reported racial/ethnic background.
The Brazilian Zika virus strain causes significant damage to mouse fetuses, leading to cell death and impaired growth. In vitro experiments confirm the virus's lethal effects on human nervous system cells, mirroring the development of congenital malformations like microcephaly.
Researchers studied exposure to antidepressants in mice, finding that SSRIs like citalopram rapidly transfer to fetuses and brains. The study's findings suggest potential risks for children of mothers taking these medications during pregnancy.
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that female mongooses respond to reproductive competition by producing bigger pups. The research, led by Emma Inzani, used ultrasound scans to measure prenatal investment in wild banded mongooses and discovered a link between competition and fetal growth.
Advanced laser surgery and echocardiography predict fetal development and survival in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies. Dr. Audibert presents results from 115 treated cases, exploring the usefulness of these techniques to improve outcomes.
A new NIH study found significant racial and ethnic disparities in fetal growth, with minority fetuses scoring below the 5th percentile due to hereditary and environmental factors. This could lead to unnecessary tests and procedures for healthy pregnant women of color.
A recent NIH-funded study found that fetuses with enlarged ventricles may be less likely to benefit from in-utero surgery for spina bifida, suggesting a wait-and-watch approach may be better. Enlarged brain cavities are associated with a higher risk of needing a second surgery after birth.
Researchers found that the immune system's attack on new blood vessel cells in fetuses may be responsible for life-threatening brain bleeds. This discovery challenges the previous belief that low platelet counts were the cause of fetal brain bleeds, suggesting a need for alternative therapies.
High-definition scans of fetuses whose mothers smoked showed a significantly higher rate of mouth movements than normal declining rates. The researchers believe this may be due to delayed fetal development of the central nervous system, which controls facial movements.
A Dutch nationwide study found that male fetuses were at increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth, particularly between 28-31 weeks. Additionally, male fetuses were more likely to experience prelabor rupture of membranes between 26-37 weeks, leading to higher neonatal morbidity rates.
A University of Georgia study found that pregnant women who gain less than 20 pounds are more likely to have male fetuses with lower survival rates. The research analyzed over 46 million pregnancies and suggests that weight gain may play a crucial role in determining fetal sex.
Researchers identified a link between fetal growth and the risk of stillbirth, finding that fetuses with restricted or excessive growth had a higher risk. The study suggests that obstetricians should focus on identifying fetuses at the extremes of growth for prevention strategies.
Researchers have found that daily exposure to very low concentrations of Bisphenol A (BPA) during pregnancy can cause fetal abnormalities in primates. The study, which used rhesus monkeys as a model, found significant adverse effects on mammary glands, ovaries, brain, uterus, lung, and heart tissues.
A new technology has been developed to diagnose and possibly treat a deadly heart condition in unborn babies. The magnetic EKG, or magnetocardiogram, was used to diagnose long QT syndrome in fetuses with 89% accuracy, identifying those at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.
A study of 24 pregnant women found that fetuses who heard Twinkle Twinkle Little Star reacted strongly to the melody both immediately and four months after birth. This suggests that fetuses can recognize and remember sounds from the outside world, with potential implications for early rehabilitation.
Researchers found that prenatal music exposure can lead to long-lasting changes in the brain after birth, influencing the development of the auditory system. The study showed that fetuses can learn and retain musical melodies for a long time, even up to four months of age.
Fetuses show increased sensitivity to mouth movements as pregnancy progresses, suggesting anticipation rather than reaction. This could be an indicator of healthy development and preparedness for feeding, social interaction, and self-soothing.
A large-scale study found that minimally invasive MRI autopsies accurately determined the cause of death for 92% of fetuses and babies younger than one year. However, accuracy decreased for children aged 1-16 years, with only half of cases agreeing on cause of death. The study suggests that MRI may not detect infections in this age group.
Despite a decline in spontaneous stillbirths, stillbirth rates in British Columbia, Canada, have increased by 31% over the past decade, according to a study published in CMAJ. The increase was mainly due to prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy terminations of fetuses with congenital anomalies.
Researchers found abnormal gene expression in fetuses of obese women, suggesting potential effects on brain development. The study suggests that maternal obesity may contribute to neurodevelopmental abnormalities in children.
Researchers at U-M found BPA in fetal liver tissue, with varying levels of exposure detected. The study suggests that fetuses may not be able to metabolize BPA as effectively as adults, highlighting the importance of understanding internal doses for health effects.
New research from Durham University found that over half of mouth openings in fetuses were classified as yawns, suggesting a developmental process linked to fetal health. Yawning declined in frequency after 28 weeks gestation, potentially providing another indicator of the unborn baby's health.
A new study tracked brain growth in human and chimpanzee fetuses, finding that human brains begin to show remarkable differences after 22 weeks of gestation. The findings suggest a faster rate of brain growth in humans compared to chimpanzees.
A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that vaginal delivery is comparable to cesarean delivery for early preterm births presenting head first. However, breech presentations resulted in high failure rates and significantly lower neonatal mortality with planned cesarean delivery.