Published since January 1, 1973

Journal of Perinatal Medicine

Official Journal of the World Association of Perinatal Medicine, the International Academy of Perinatal Medicine, the New York Perinatal Society, and the Society for the Fetus as a Patient

ISSN: 1619-3997

Editor-in-chief: Joachim W. Dudenhausen, MD, FRCOG

Edited by: Thorsten Braun, Frank A. Chervenak, Vincenzo D'Addario, Marty Ellington, Mehmet R. Genc, Anne Greenough, Amos Grunebaum, Asim Kurjak, Roberto Romero, Daniel W. Skupski, Ivica Zalud

About this journal

Journal of Perinatal Medicine: Happy 50th Anniversary
The Journal of Perinatal Medicine (JPM) is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The first issue was published in January 1973, making it the first scientific journal in the field of perinatal medicine. JPM was founded by Erich Saling of Berlin (Germany), the father of perinatal medicine, and Roberto Caldeyro Barcia of Uruguay, an expert in uterine contractility, Edward Hon from the USA, who pioneered electronic heart rate monitoring of the fetus, and Stanley James, one of the most outstanding neonatologists. Over the past 50 years, JPM has grown with the increasing number of annual submissions and readers, as well as increasing impact within the scientific community.
Enjoy reading the Special Anniversary Issue we published on the occasion of JPM's milestone birthday!

Objective
The Journal of Perinatal Medicine (JPM) is a truly international forum covering the entire field of perinatal medicine. It is an essential news source for all those obstetricians, neonatologists, perinatologists and allied health professionals who wish to keep abreast of progress in perinatal and related research. Ahead-of-print publishing ensures fastest possible knowledge transfer. The Journal provides statements on themes of topical interest as well as information and different views on controversial topics. It also at informs about the academic, organisational and political aims and objectives of the World Association of Perinatal Medicine (WAPM)

Please submit your manuscript here

Topics
JPM covers the entire field of perinatal medicine, obstetrics and neonatology. It is published in 9 issues per year.

Article formats
Research Articles, Reviews, Mini Reviews and Opinion Papers, Short Communications, Editorials, Letters to the Editor, WAPM-Newsletters

Your Benefits

New results from the clinical and experimental areas
Theoretical and practical aspects of all subdisciplines
Fast transfer of knowledge
Critical, high quality peer-review

Since 2014 the Journal of Perinatal Medicine has been the official journal of the International Academy of Perinatal Medicine and the New York Perinatal Society.

History

Content available since 1973

Other publications in the field

Abstracting and Indexing

Journal of Perinatal Medicine is covered by the following services:

Baidu Scholar
Cabells Journalytics
CABI (over 50 subsections)
Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) - CAplus
Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) - SciFinder
CINAHL
CNKI Scholar (China National Knowledge Infrastructure)
CNPIEC - cnpLINKer
Dimensions
EBSCO (relevant databases)
EBSCO Discovery Service
EMBASE
Genamics JournalSeek
Google Scholar
ICAP Alcohol Information Databases
Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)
J-Gate
Journal Citation Reports/Science Edition
JournalGuide
JournalTOCs
KESLI-NDSL (Korean National Discovery for Science Leaders)
Medline
MyScienceWork
Naver Academic
Naviga (Softweco)
Norwegian Register for Scientific Journals, Series and Publishers
Pathway Studio
Primo Central (ExLibris)
ProQuest (relevant databases)
Publons
PubMed
PubsHub
QOAM (Quality Open Access Market)
ReadCube
Reaxys
Scilit
SCImago (SJR)
SCOPUS
Semantic Scholar
Sherpa/RoMEO
SIIC Data Bases
Summon (ProQuest)
TDNet
Text Mining
Ulrich's Periodicals Directory/ulrichsweb
WanFang Data
Web of Science - Biological Abstracts
Web of Science - BIOSIS Previews
Web of Science - Current Contents/Clinical Medicine
Web of Science - Prous Science Integrity
Web of Science - Science Citation Index
Web of Science - Science Citation Index Expanded
WorldCat (OCLC)
X-MOL
Yewno Discover

Supplementary Materials

Topics

External Links

Volume 51 Issue 5

June 2023

Publicly Available June 8, 2023

Frontmatter

Page range: i-iv

Download PDF

Reviews

November 16, 2022

Disquiet concerning cesarean birth

Wayne R. Cohen, Michael S. Robson, Alan D. Bedrick

Page range: 591-599

Abstract

Cesarean birth has increased substantially in many parts of the world over recent decades and concerns have been raised about the propriety of this change in obstetric practice. Sometimes, a cesarean is necessary to preserve fetal and maternal health. But in balancing the risks of surgical intervention the implicit assumption has been that cesarean birth is an equivalent alternative to vaginal birth from the standpoint of the immediate and long-term health of the fetus and neonate. Increasingly, we realize this is not necessarily so. Delivery mode per se may influence short-term and abiding problems with homeostasis in offspring, quite independent of the indications for the delivery and other potentially confounding factors. The probability of developing various disorders, including respiratory compromise, obesity, immune dysfunction, and neurobehavioral disorders has been shown in some studies to be higher among individuals born by cesarean. Moreover, many of these adverse effects are not confined to the neonatal period and may develop over many years. Although the associations between delivery mode and long-term health are persuasive, their pathogenesis and causality remain uncertain. Full exploration and a clear understanding of these relationships is of great importance to the health of offspring.

November 17, 2022

Prenatal care and pregnancy outcome among incarcerated pregnant individuals in the United States: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Kamran Hessami, Juana A. Hutchinson-Colas, Frank A. Chervenak, Alireza A. Shamshirsaz, Nikan Zargarzadeh, Amir Hossein Norooznezhad, Amos Grünebaum, Gloria A. Bachmann

Page range: 600-606

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the risk of inadequate prenatal care and pregnancy outcome among incarcerated pregnant individuals in the United States. PubMed/MedLine, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov and Web of Science were searched from inception up to March 30th, 2022. Studies were included if they reported the risk of inadequate prenatal care and/or pregnancy outcomes among incarcerated pregnant individuals in the United States jails or prisons. Adequacy of prenatal care was quantified by Kessner index. The random-effects model was used to pool the mean differences or odds ratios (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using RevMan software. Nine studies were included in the final review. A total of 11,534 pregnant individuals, of whom 2,544 were incarcerated while pregnant, and 8,990 who were matched non-incarcerated pregnant individuals serving as control group, were utilized. Compared to non-incarcerated pregnancies, incarcerated pregnant individuals were at higher risk of inadequate prenatal care (OR 2.99 [95% CI: 1.60, 5.61], p<0.001) and were more likely to have newborns with low birthweight (OR 1.66 [95% CI: 1.19, 2.32], p=0.003). There was no significant difference between incarcerated and matched control pregnancies in the rates of preterm birth and stillbirth. The findings of the current systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that incarcerated pregnant individuals have an increased risk of inadequate prenatal care. Considering the limited number of current studies, further research is indicated to both assess whether the risk of inadequate prenatal care has negative impact on prenatal outcomes for this population and to determine the steps that can be taken to enhance prenatal care for all pregnant individuals incarcerated in the United States prisons.

Corner of Academy

Publicly Available November 25, 2022

Does COVID-19 infection acquired in different pregnancy trimester influence placental pathology?

Andrea Dagelic, Vedran Stefanovic, Jasminka Resic Karara, Ivana Kuzmic Prusac, Damir Roje, Indira Kosovic, Sandra Zekic Tomas

Page range: 607-613

More Download PDF

Abstract

Objectives To determine the morphological characteristics of the placentas from COVID-19 positive mothers in regard to the trimester of COVID-19 infection onset and low weight molecular heparin (LMWH) treatment. Methods Placentas were collected in the period April 1st till September 1st 2021 after delivery at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University Hospital Split, Croatia, and sent for pathological examination. Medical history and pathology reports were used to collect the data. Pregnant women were divided based on the onset of COVID-19 infection and stratified into low molecular weight heparin (LMWH)+ or LMWH−. Depending on the data distribution, the following test were used: chi-squared test. Student’s t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis test. Results In 38% of patients the onset of COVID-19 infection was the 1st trimester of pregnancy, in 27% in the 2nd and 35% of women were infected in the 3rd trimester The fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) occurrence was statistically significantly higher in the LMWH− group and if the onset of infection was in the 2nd trimester, while the perivillous fibrin deposition was most likely to happen if the COVID-19 infection that occured in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. Conclusions The onset of COVID-19 infection has the influence on trophoblast damage and subsequent morphological appearance of the placenta. LMWH use in COVID positive pregnant women decreases the rate of the FVM in examined placentas.

Original Articles – Obstetrics

Publicly Available December 7, 2022

Did the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic impact the cesarean delivery rate? A retrospective cohort study at a primary care center in Switzerland

Tabea Cincera, Natalia Conde, Stefanie von Felten, Brigitte Leeners, Stephanie von Orelli

Page range: 614-622

More Download PDF

Abstract

Objectives During the first 3 months of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, our hospital’s quality management team determined a decline in the rate of cesarean deliveries (CD). Thus, in this study we examined both the factors associated with this decrease as well as neonatal outcomes. Methods This was a retrospective observational cohort study comparing deliveries (n=597) between March and May 2020 (first nationwide “lockdown” in Switzerland) with those during the same period in 2018 and 2019 (n=1,063). A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between CD and the pandemic, adjusting for relevant risk factors for CD. Results The overall rate of CD during the pandemic period was lower (30.0%), than during the pre-pandemic period (38.7%, unadjusted odds ratio 0.68, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.55 to 0.84, p=0.0004) a result that was supported by the adjusted odds ratio (0.73, 95%CI: 0.54 to 0.99, p=0.04). Conclusions The results of this study confirmed a significant reduction in the rate of CD in early 2020, during the first lockdown period due to COVID-19, but without major differences in maternal and infant health indicators or in obstetric risk factors than before the pandemic. These results may have been due to a difference in the composition of the obstetric team as well as the behavior of the obstetrics team and in the patients during the pandemic, given the burden it placed on healthcare systems. However, this hypothesis remains to be tested in further research.

February 2, 2023

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection

Cara S. Wetcher, Moti Gulersen, Burton Rochelson, Weiwei Shan, Eran Bornstein, Matthew J. Blitz

Page range: 623-627

Abstract

Objectives We aimed to determine whether severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). Methods A multicenter retrospective cohort study of all pregnant patients who had SARS-CoV-2 testing and delivered in a large health system between March 2020 and March 2021. Cases were stratified into two groups: patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy vs. patients who tested negative. The primary outcome of HDP, defined as a composite of gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count syndrome (HELLP Syndrome), and eclampsia by standard criteria, was compared between the two groups. Statistical analysis included multivariable logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders such as maternal demographics and comorbidities. Patient ZIP codes were linked to neighborhood-level data from the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. Results Of the 22,438 patients included, 1,653 (7.4%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Baseline demographics such as age, body mass index, race, ethnicity, insurance type, neighborhood-built environmental and socioeconomic status, nulliparity, and pregestational diabetes differed significantly between the two groups. SARS-CoV- 2 infection in pregnancy was not associated with an increased risk of HDP compared to those without infection (14.9 vs. 14.8%; aOR 1.06 95% CI 0.90–1.24). Conclusions In this large cohort that included a universally-tested population with several socioeconomic indicators, SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy was not associated with an increased risk of HDP.

January 30, 2023

Hidden in plain sight in the delivery room – the Apgar score is biased

Amos Grünebaum, Eran Bornstein, Joachim W. Dudenhausen, Erez Lenchner, Monique De Four Jones, Aneesha Varrey, Dawnette Lewis, Frank A. Chervenak

Page range: 628-633

Abstract

Objectives The objective of this study was to compare the maximum 5-min Apgar score of 10 among different U.S. races and Hispanic ethnicity. Methods Retrospective population-based cohort study from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), and Division of Vital Statistics natality online database. We included only deliveries where the race and Hispanic ethnicity of the father and mother were listed as either Black, White, Chinese, or Asian Indian and as Hispanic or Latino origin or other. Proportions of 5-Minute Apgar scores of 10 were compared among different races and Hispanic ethnicity for six groups each for mother and father: Non-Hispanic or Latino White, Hispanic or Latino White, Non-Hispanic or Latino Black, Hispanic or Latino Black, Chinese, and Asian Indian. Results The study population consists of 9,710,066 mothers and 8,138,475 fathers from the US natality birth data 2016–2019. Black newborns had a less than 50% chance of having a 5-min Apgar score of 10 when compared to white newborns (OR 0.47 for Black mother and Black father; p<0.001). White babies (non-Hispanic and Hispanic) had the highest proportion of Apgar scores of 10 across all races and ethnicities. Conclusions The Apgar score introduces a bias by systematically lowering the score in people of color. Embedding skin color scoring into basic data and decisions of health care propagates race-based medicine. By removing the skin color portion of the Apgar score and with it’s racial and ethnic bias, we will provide more accuracy and equity when evaluating newborn babies worldwide.

Open Access November 29, 2022

Comparison of phase rectified signal averaging and short term variation in predicting perinatal outcome in early onset fetal growth restriction

Claartje M. Bruin, Silvia M. Lobmaier, Wessel Ganzevoort, Alexander Müller, Hans Wolf

Page range: 634-640

More Download PDF

Abstract

Objectives To compare short term variation (STV) and phase rectified signal averaging (PRSA) and their association with fetal outcome in early onset fetal growth restriction (FGR). Methods Data were used from a retrospective cohort study of women who were admitted for FGR and/or pre-eclampsia and who were delivered by pre-labor Cesarean section or had a fetal death before 32 weeks’ gestation. Computerized cardiotocography (cCTG) registrations of the 5 days before delivery or fetal death were used for calculation of STV and PRSA. PRSA was expressed as the average acceleration capacity (AAC) and average deceleration capacity (ADC). FHR decelerations were classified visually as absent, 1–2 per hour or recurrent. Abnormality of STV and of PRSA was either analyzed as a single parameter or in combination with recurrent decelerations. Endpoints were defined as composite adverse condition at birth consisting of fetal death, low Apgar score, low umbilical pH, the need for resuscitation after birth and as major neonatal morbidity or neonatal death. Results Included were 367 pregnancies of which 20 resulted in fetal death. An abnormal cCTG with either recurrent decelerations and/or low STV or recurrent decelerations and/or low PRSA were similarly associated with composite adverse condition at birth (n=99), but neither with major neonatal morbidity. Conclusions PRSA and STV have similar efficacy for measuring fetal heart rate variation in early onset FGR. An increased risk of a composite adverse condition at birth is indicated by a low value of either parameter and/or the presence of recurrent decelerations.

January 2, 2023

Serum levels of kynurenine in pregnancies with fetal growth restriction and oligohydramnios

Selen Yaman, Meryem Ceyhan, Necati Hancerliogullari, Esin Merve Koc, Tuba Candar, Aytekin Tokmak

Page range: 641-645

Abstract

Objectives Kynurinine (KYN) and its metabolites, which are released during the metabolism of tryptophan, an essential amino acid, have many important functions, such as cellular energy production, regulation of vascular tone, and regulation of the immune system. In this study, we aimed to detect serum KYN levels, which may be an indicator of KYN pathway activity, in idiopathic fetal growth restriction (FGR) and oligohydramnios cases whose pathophysiology is known to be affected by multiple factors, such as placental hypoperfusion, immune dysregulation, and maternal nutrition disorder, and to investigate their relationship with these common obstetric complications. Methods This cross-sectional case-control study was carried out in the antenatal outpatient clinics of Ankara City Hospital between July and December 2021. While the study group consisted of pregnant women with idiopathic isolated FGR and oligohydramnios, the control group consisted of low-risk patients who did not have any problems. The clinical features of the patients, such as age, body mass indexes, and gestational week, were recorded by measuring basic laboratory parameters and serum KYN levels. Results A total of 110 patients were included in this study. The patients were divided into three groups: FGR, oligohydramnios, and the control group. There was no significant difference between the patients’ ages, weeks of gestation, or body mass indexes. Serum KYN level was calculated as 57.8 ± 13.4 pg/mL in IUGR, 75.3 ± 10.8 pg/mL in oligohydramnios and 95.1 ± 13.3 pg/mL in the control group (p<0.001). Conclusions Serum KYN levels were lower in pregnant women complicated with FGR and oligohydramnios more prominently in pregnant women diagnosed with FGR than in normal pregnancies. The results suggest that KYN plays an important role in either the etiopathogenesis or the response to these two obstetric pathologies.

December 13, 2022

Effect of third trimester maternal vitamin D levels on placental weight to birth weight ratio in uncomplicated pregnancies

Mehmet Mete Kirlangic, Osman Sertac Sade, Mefkure Eraslan Sahin

Page range: 646-651

Abstract

Objectives Vitamin D has critical role for the fetal and placental development. Today, placental weight (PW), fetal birth weight (BW), and the PW/BW ratio are used as markers of fetal development. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D levels and these markers in uncomplicated pregnancies. Methods This study included 108 women with uncomplicated pregnancies, defined as full-term and healthy pregnancies without perinatal complications. Vitamin D levels <12 ng/mL were classified as deficient, 12–20 ng/mL as insufficient, and >20 ng/mL as normal. Postnatal BW and PW were compared according to maternal serum vitamin D levels. Results Maternal age, maternal height, maternal weight, body mass index, nulliparity, gestational age at delivery, mode of delivery, and fetal gender were similar between groups. Postnatal BW, PW, fetal height at birth, and fetal head circumference parameters were similar between the groups. The PW/BW ratio was 21.77±2.20 in the vitamin D deficient group, 21.20±2.40 in the insufficient group, and 19.98±2.37 in the normal group (p=0.012). In addition, there was a significant negative correlation between vitamin D level and the PW/BW ratio (p=0.012, r=0.031). Conclusions Our results indicated that PW/BW ratio which is the marker for prediction adverse perinatal outcomes were significantly increased in the presence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency.

Publicly Available December 27, 2022

One-third of patients with eclampsia at term do not have an abnormal angiogenic profile

Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa, Roberto Romero, Francesca Gotsch, Nardhy Gomez-Lopez, Manaphat Suksai, Dahiana M. Gallo, Eunjung Jung, Dustyn Levenson, Adi L. Tarca

Page range: 652-663

More Download PDF

Abstract

Objectives An abnormal angiogenic profile is present in about one-half of women with preeclampsia at term. Few studies examined the roles of angiogenic biomarkers in eclampsia. The aims of this study were to determine (1) whether the degree of an anti-angiogenic state, reflected by a low placental growth factor (PlGF) to soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) ratio, in women with eclampsia differed from that of women with severe preeclampsia; and (2) the prevalence of women who had an abnormal angiogenic profile at the diagnoses of preterm and term eclampsia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to include women in the following groups: (1) uncomplicated pregnancy (n=40); (2) severe preeclampsia (n=50); and (3) eclampsia (n=35). Maternal serum concentrations of PlGF and sFlt-1 were determined by immunoassays. Results Women with preterm, but not term, eclampsia had a more severe anti-angiogenic state than those with severe preeclampsia ( lower PlGF and PlGF/sFlt-1 ratio, each p<0.05). However, the difference diminished in magnitude with increasing gestational age (interaction, p=0.005). An abnormal angiogenic profile was present in 95% (19/20) of women with preterm eclampsia but in only 67% (10/15) of women with eclampsia at term. Conclusions Angiogenic biomarkers can be used for risk assessment of preterm eclampsia. By contrast, a normal profile of angiogenic biomarkers cannot reliably exclude patients at risk for eclampsia at term. This observation has major clinical implications given that angiogenic biomarkers are frequently used in the triage area as a test to rule out preeclampsia.

February 23, 2023

Chorioangioma: a single tertiary care center retrospective study

Bashayer Saeed, Asma Tulbah, Marwah Bintalib, Edward Bentz De Vol, Samar Almogbel, Mawadah BaAli, Hanifa Bukhari, Meshayel Foudaneel, Jawaher Almutairi, Maram Bin Mahfodh, Maha Tulbah, Maha Alnemer, Wesam Kurdi

Page range: 664-674

Abstract

Objectives Chorioangioma represents a challenge due to the rarity of the condition, paucity of sufficient management guidelines, and controversies regarding the best invasive fetal therapy option; most of the scientific evidence for clinical treatment has been limited to case reports. The aim of this retrospective study was to review the natural antenatal history, maternal and fetal complications, and therapeutic modalities used in pregnancies complicated with placental chorioangioma at a single Center. Methods This retrospective study was conducted at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH&RC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Our study population included all pregnancies with ultrasound features of chorioangioma, or histologically confirmed chorioangiomas, between January 2010 and December 2019. Data were collected from the patients’ medical records, including the ultrasound reports and histopathology results. All subjects were kept anonymous; case numbers were used as identifiers. Data collected by the investigators were entered into Excel worksheets in an encrypted format. A MEDLINE database was used to retrieve 32 articles for literature review. Results Over a 10-year period between January 2010 and December 2019, 11 cases of chorioangioma were identified. Ultrasound remains the gold standard for diagnosis and follow-up of the pregnancy. Seven of the 11 cases were detected by ultrasound, allowing proper fetal surveillance and antenatal follow-up. Of the remaining six patients, one underwent radiofrequency ablation, two underwent intrauterine transfusion for fetal anemia due to placenta chorioangioma, one had vascular embolization with an adhesive material, and two were managed conservatively until term with ultrasound surveillance. Conclusions Ultrasound remains the gold standard modality for prenatal diagnosis and follow-up of pregnancies with suspected chorioangiomas. Tumor size and vascularity play a significant role in the development of maternal-fetal complications and the success of fetal interventions. To determine the superior modality of fetal intervention mandates more data and research; nevertheless, Fetoscopic Laser Photocoagulation and embolization with adhesive material seem to be a lead choice, with reasonable fetal survival.

January 6, 2023

A prospective cohort study: can advanced ultrasonography replace magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of placental adhesion disorders?

Sabahattin Anil Ari, Asli Suner, Ayse Rabia Senkaya, Firat Okmen, Ali Akdemir, Ahmet Mete Ergenoglu

Page range: 675-681

Abstract

Objectives To define and compare the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography (USG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the placental adhesive disorder (PAD). Methods A prospective study was conducted between January 2019 and February 2020 in a tertiary referral university hospital. A total of 115 placenta previa cases were included in the study during the third trimester of gestation. USG examination was performed, and the placenta was scanned in a systematic manner using gray-scale ultrasound, color Doppler flow mapping, and 3-D imaging for each participant. Thereafter, all participants underwent an MRI examination. USG and MRI findings were compared with histopathological findings. Results Loss of the retroplacental sonolucent zone (71% [95% CI 47–88]) and an irregular retroplacental sonolucent zone (71% [95% CI 47–88]) were the most sensitive USG parameters. For MRI, the uterine bulging parameter was the most sensitive (60% [95% CI 36–80]) and specific (91% [95% CI 83–96]) findings, and it had the highest accuracy rate (85% [95% CI 77–91]). Overall, the USG sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy rates were 77% (95% CI 54–92), 87% (95% CI 79–93), and 85% (95% CI 77–91), respectively. The MRI sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy rates for all participants were 81% (95% CI 59–94), 85% (95% CI 76–92), and 84% (95% CI 76–90), respectively. Conclusions In the diagnosis of PAD, the specificity and accuracy of USG are higher than that of MRI, whereas the sensitivity of MRI is better than that of USG.

Original Articles – Fetus

December 5, 2022

Fetal left brachiocephalic vein diameters in normal and growth restricted fetuses

Didem Kaymak, Verda Alpay, Ebru Alıcı Davutoğlu, Melike Makul, Riza Madazlı

Page range: 682-686

Abstract

Objectives To develop a nomogram for fetal left brachiocephalic vein (LBCV) diameters during a healthy pregnancy and to assess LBCV values in fetuses with fetal growth restriction (FGR). Methods This prospective observational study included 31 FGR pregnancies and 438 low-risk pregnancies. The low-risk group was used to determine the 5th, mean, and 95th percentiles for the LBCV between 12 and 39 weeks of gestation based on gestational age. On growth charts, LBCV measurements of FGR fetuses were displayed, and those above the gestational age 95th percentile were considered wide vein. Cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) and umbilical artery (UA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and ductus venosus (DV) Doppler parameters were evaluated in FGR fetuses. Results LBCV diameter increased significantly with advancing gestational age. The LBCV diameters were above the 95th percentile in 23 of the 31 FGR fetuses (74.2%). All fetuses (15/15, 100%) with early-onset (EO)-FGR and 8 fetuses (8/16, 50%) with the late-onset (LO)-FGR had LBCV values above the 95th percentile (p<0.01). UA-PI was significantly higher and MCA-PI and CPR were significantly lower in LO-FGR fetuses with LBCV diameters above the 95th percentile (p<0.05). Conclusions LBCV diameters of fetuses with FGR were significantly wider than the normal population. In the LO-FGR group, there was a good correlation between LBCV diameter and CPR.

November 28, 2022

Functional assessment of atrial wall excursion and foramen ovale flap tracings in 3rd trimester as predictor of short-term hemodynamic stability in congenital heart defects fetuses

Oskar Sylwestrzak, Iwona Strzelecka, Norman H. Silverman, Maria Respondek-Liberska

Page range: 687-696

Abstract

Objectives Right atrium and left atrium of the fetal heart play a fundamental role in fetal heart circulatory physiology. Methods Excursion of fetal atria walls and tracings of foramen ovale (FO) flap movement were analyzed by M-mode echocardiography by new FO index to determine fetal and neonatal outcome in the first week and month of life in various congenital heart defects. The study group was divided into 3 subgroups: group A: neonates stable after birth (all on I.V. prostaglandin infusion) for at least 7 days, group B: neonates unstable after birth (despite I.V. prostaglandin infusion) requiring catheterization procedure or early cardiac surgery <6th day of life and group C: fetuses with in utero demise. Results The average values of FO index: group A – 32, group B – 20, group C – 12.Schaffe test showed statistical difference of FO index between group A and B (p=0.029) and group A and C (p=0.001), but no difference between group B and C (p=0.24) The FO index of stability was determined by ROC curve analysis. Cut-off point distinguishing between postnatal stability and postnatal instability + in utero demise constituted FO index=25 (specificity 82%; sensitivity 90%). Conclusions Prenatal features of atrial M-mode echocardiography shortly before birth might be helpful to predict the short term prognosis of fetal hemodynamic stability or instability shortly after birth regardless of the type of congenital heart defects (CHD).

Original Articles – Neonates

December 13, 2022

Developing a new pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) program

Erin Cicalese, Sarah Meisler, Michael Kitchin, Margaret Zhang, Sourabh Verma, Heda Dapul, Jaclyn McKinstry, Bridget Toy, Arun Chopra, Jason C. Fisher

Page range: 697-703

Abstract

Objectives We aimed to critically evaluate the effectiveness of a designated ECMO team in our ECMO selection process and patient outcomes in the first 3 years of our low-volume pediatric ECMO program. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients who received an ECMO consultation between the start of our program in March 2015 and May 2018. We gathered clinical and demographic information on patients who did and did not receive ECMO, and described our selection process. We reflected on the processes used to initiate our program and our outcomes in the first 3 years. Results Sixty-nine patients received consultations, and of those, 50 patients were potential candidates. 19 (38%) of the candidates were ultimately placed on ECMO. There were statistically significant differences in oxygen saturation, paO 2 , oxygenation index, A-aDO 2 , lactate, and pH between the patients who went on ECMO and who did not. We improved our outcomes from 0% survival to discharge in 2015, to 60% in 2018, with an average of 63% survival to discharge over the first 3 years of our program. Conclusions In a low-volume pediatric ECMO center, having a designated team to assist in the patient selection process and management can help provide safe and efficient care to these patients, and improve patient outcomes. Having a strict management protocol and simulation sessions involving all members of the medical team yields comfort for the providers and optimal care for patients. This study describes our novel structure, processes, and outcomes, which we hope will be helpful to others seeking to develop a new pediatric ECMO program.

December 28, 2022

Patterns of placental injury in various types of fetal congenital heart disease

Jerzy Stanek

Page range: 704-711

Abstract

Objectives Fetal blood circulation may be modified in congenital heart disease (CHD). This retrospective analysis was performed to study whether the type of CHD is associated with specific placental pathology. Methods Three types of CHD based on presumed proportion of placental and systemic blood distribution in fetal circulation were analyzed: Group 1: 89 cases with low placental blood content (hypoplastic left heart syndrome, transposition of great arteries, coarctation of aorta), Group 2: 71 placentas with intermediate placental and systemic blood content due to increased intracardiac blood mixing (tetralogy of Fallot, truncus arteriosus, double inlet/outlet ventricle), and Group 3: 24 placentas with high placental blood content (tricuspid or pulmonary atresia, Ebstein anomaly). Frequencies of 27 independent clinical and 47 placental phenotypes of 184 placentas in those three groups were statistically compared. Results The most advanced gestational age at delivery, and large vessel (global) fetal vascular malperfusion (FVM) were most common in Group 1, while macerated stillbirths, neonatal mortality, abnormal amniotic fluid volume (oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios), other congenital anomalies, distal villous lesions of FVM, placental edema and amnion nodosum were most common in Groups 2 and 3, although the frequencies of placental lesions were statistically not significant. Conclusions Left heart obstructive lesions potentially associated with brain maldevelopment show increase in lesions of global FVM (in aggregate and individually fetal vascular ectasia, stem vessel obliteration and intramural fibrin deposition) as may be seen in umbilical cord compromise. CHD with increased intracardiac blood mixing or with right heart defects is associated with average preterm gestational age at delivery and placental lesions of distal villous FVM, villous edema and amnion nodosum.

Short Communication

November 24, 2022

Prenatal care in the era of economic collapse

Assaad Kesrouani, Inaam Hatoum, Georges Yared, David Atallah, Linda Daou, Ramzi Finan

Page range: 712-715

Abstract

Objectives To describe the effect of economic collapse on prenatal care. Methods This is an observational study aiming to depict the changes that occur in prenatal care in the case of an economic collapse. Biochemical screening and ultrasound examinations, as well as medical emigration and private-public sector activity, are discussed. Results Starting October 2019, Lebanon experienced significant and unprecedented economic degradation leading to 81% degradation of the local currency, 85% inflation, and socio-economic suffering, and the situation is currently still deteriorating. The impact on the medical infrastructure has been global and hit all areas. The crisis is multifaceted, varied in the way it played out across public and private sectors, and did not affect them equally. Some were better prepared than others to cope with severe fiscal pressure mainly through the support of non-governmental organizations. All aspects of prenatal care are affected by the crisis. Conclusions Given the multiple strains on the Lebanese health care system today, the plight of antenatal care providers needs assistance to ensure adequate follow-up of pregnancies.

Letters to the Editor

December 9, 2022

Does fetus feel stress or pain on uterine contraction?

Toshiyuki Hata, Mohamed Ahmed Mostafa AboEllail, Takahito Miyake, Kenji Kanenishi

Page range: 716-717

January 2, 2023

Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A for the prediction of small for gestational age

Laurence Caron, Louise Ghesquiere, Emmanuel Bujold

Page range: 718-719

January 6, 2023

Reply to: Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A for the prediction of small for gestational age

Tiina Kantomaa, Marja Vääräsmäki, Mika Gissler, Mikko Sairanen, Jaana Nevalainen

Page range: 720-721

Ahead of Print / Just Accepted

Ahead of Print / Just Accepted

Volume 51 (2023)

Volume 50 (2022)

Volume 49 (2021)

Volume 48 (2020)

Volume 47 (2019)

Volume 46 (2018)

Volume 45 (2017)

Volume 44 (2016)

Volume 43 (2015)

Volume 42 (2014)

Volume 41 (2013)

Volume 40 (2012)

Volume 39 (2011)

Volume 38 (2010)

Volume 37 (2009)

Volume 36 (2008)

Volume 35 (2007)

Volume 34 (2006)

Volume 33 (2005)

Volume 32 (2004)

Volume 31 (2003)

Volume 30 (2002)

Volume 29 (2001)

Volume 28 (2000)

Volume 27 (1999)

Volume 26 (1998)

Volume 25 (1997)

Volume 24 (1996)

Volume 23 (1995)

Volume 22 (1994)

Volume 21 (1993)

Volume 20 (1992)

Volume 19 (1991)

Volume 18 (1990)

Volume 17 (1989)

Volume 16 (1988)

Volume 15 (1987)

Volume 14 (1986)

Volume 13 (1985)

Volume 12 (1984)

Volume 11 (1983)

Volume 10 (1982)

Volume 9 (1981)

Volume 8 (1980)

Volume 7 (1979)

Volume 6 (1978)

Volume 5 (1977)

Volume 4 (1976)

Volume 3 (1975)

Volume 2 (1974)

Volume 1 (1973)

5-year Journal Impact Factor	2.322
CiteScore	3.7
Journal Impact Factor	2.716
Journal Citation Indicator	0.93
SCImago Journal Rank	0.620
Source Normalized Impact per Paper	1.032

Submit

Submission
You can easily submit your manuscript online. Simply go to https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/jpmed and you will be guided through the whole peer-reviewing and publishing process.

Your benefits of publishing with us

Rapid publication times
No submission and publication fee
Optional Open Access Publication
Free color illustrations
Accepted papers will be published online first as DOI-citable, forward-linked articles for quickest possible visibility for the scientific community
Every article easily discoverable because of SEO and comprehensive abstracting and indexing services
Secure archiving by De Gruyter and the independent archiving service Portico

Submission process

Submission of your manuscript via our submission tool ScholarOne following the Information for Authors
Double-blind peer review process
A decision on your paper is aspired within 3-4 weeks
Accepted articles are published online ahead of print approx. 2-3 weeks after acceptance

Please note

Manuscripts must be written in clear and concise English
Before submitting your article please have a look at the JPM Submission Checklist, the Publication Ethics Statement and our copyright agreement
As a condition of submission, the Template for Ethical and Legal Declarations must be customized by the submitting author on behalf of all others and uploaded as a separate Word file. Instructions on how to make declarations can be found here
Once your article is accepted you have the option to publish it open access
Our repository policy allows you to distribute 30 PDF copies of your published article to colleagues (the PDF has to include the information that it is an author's copy). Please also feel free to distribute the link to the online abstract
If you have any general questions please visit our FAQ page for authors
For more detailed information please contact the JPM Editorial Office jpm.editorial@degruyter.com

We look forward to receiving your manuscript!

Hybrid Open Access

In this journal, authors have the option to publish their article under an open access license. Open Access allows you as an author to retain copyright and share your findings with colleagues and interested parties worldwide without any restraints.
Please note that authors from institutions with which we have a transformative agreement can publish open access without paying an article processing charge (APC). More information on the eligible institutions and articles can be found　under the "Funding and Support" tab HERE.

Editorial

Editor-in-Chief
Joachim W. Dudenhausen, Berlin, Germany

Founding Editor
Erich Z. Saling, Berlin, Germany

Coordinating Editor for the WAPM
Frank A. Chervenak, New York, US

Coordinating Editor for the IAPM
Asim Kurjak, Zagreb, Croatia

Associate Editors Obstetrics
Thorsten Braun, Berlin, Germany
Vincenzo D’Addario, Bari, Italy
Mehmet Genc, Gainesville, US
Amos Grunebaum, New York, US
Roberto Romero, Detroit, US
Daniel W. Skupski, New York, US
Ivica Zalud, Honolulu, US

Associate Editors Neonatology
Marty Ellington, New York, NY, US
Anne Greenough, London, UK

Editorial Board
Haim Abenhaim, Montreal, Canada
João F. Bernardes, Porto, Portugal
Jonathan Blau, Staten Island, NY, US
Eran Bornstein, New York, US
Luis Cabero, Barcelona, Spain
Xavier Carbonell-Estrany, Barcelona, Spain
Erich Cosmi, Padua, Italy
Mary E. D’Alton, New York, US
Dan Farine, Toronto, Canada
Sonia S. Hassan, Detroit, US
Roland Hentschel, Freiburg, Germany
Wolfgang Holzgreve, Bonn, Germany
Ben Lee, Doha, Quartar
Jorge C. Martinez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Zoltan Papp, Budapest, Hungary
Ranjan K. Pejaver, Bangalore, India
Ritsuko K. Pooh, Osaka, Japan
Giuseppe Rizzo, Rome, Italy
Ola D. Saugstad, Oslo, Norway
Joseph Schenker, Jerusalem, Israel
Klaus Vetter, Berlin, Germany
Alexander Weichert, Berlin, Germany
Hung N. Winn, Columbia, US
Bruce K. Young, New York, US
Roland Zimmermann, Zurich, Switzerland

Social Media Editor
Nicola Volpe, Parma, Italy

Statistical Advice
Wolfgang Köpcke, Münster, Germany

Ethical Advice
Frank A. Chervenak, New York

Editorial Office
Heike Jahnke
Walter de Gruyter GmbH
Genthiner Str. 13
10785 Berlin
Germany
Tel.: +49-30-26005-220
e-mail: jpm.editorial@degruyter.com

(Deutsch)

Online ISSN: 1619-3997
Print ISSN: 0300-5577
Type: Journal
Language: English
Publisher: De Gruyter
First published: January 1, 1973
Publication Frequency: 9 Issues per Year
Audience: researchers and health professionals in the field of perinatal and related research