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Liczbińska G, Antosik S, Brabec M, Tomczyk AM. Ambient temperature-related sex ratio at birth in historical urban populations: the example of the city of Poznań, 1848-1900. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14001. [PMID: 38890431 PMCID: PMC11189407 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64799-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
This study examines whether exposure to ambient temperature in nineteenth-century urban space affected the ratio of boys to girls at birth. Furthermore, we investigate the details of temperature effects timing upon sex ratio at birth. The research included 66,009 individual births, aggregated in subsequent months of births for the years 1847-1900, i.e. 33,922 boys and 32,087 girls. The statistical modelling of the probability of a girl being born is based on logistic GAM with penalized splines and automatically selected complexity. Our research emphasizes the significant effect of temperature in the year of conception: the higher the temperature was, the smaller probability of a girl being born was observed. There were also several significant temperature lags before conception and during pregnancy. Our findings indicate that in the past, ambient temperature, similar to psychological stress, hunger, malnutrition, and social and economic factors, influenced the viability of a foetus. Research on the effects of climate on the sex ratio in historical populations may allow for a better understanding of the relationship between environmental factors and reproduction, especially concerning historical populations since due to some cultural limitations, they were more prone to stronger environmental stressors than currently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grażyna Liczbińska
- Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Szymon Antosik
- Doctoral School of Humanities, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Marek Brabec
- Department of Statistical Modelling, Institute of Computer Science, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Biostatistics, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Arkadiusz M Tomczyk
- Department of Meteorology and Climatology, Faculty of Geographic and Geological Sciences, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
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Chen Y, Fan J, Li X, Ye Y, Lv Y, Zheng S, Hu J, Pu Y, Liu T. Associations of COVID-19 lockdown with birth weight in China. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1336108. [PMID: 38318453 PMCID: PMC10838992 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1336108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background During the special period of the global spread of COVID-19, pregnant women are sensitive groups to the impacts of COVID-19 epidemic. However, the effects of lockdown measures implemented in response to the COVID-19 on fetal birthweight remain unclear. Objectives This study investigated the associations of COVID-19 lockdown with birth weight in Chinese population. Methods We collected 730,153 data of participants from hospitals of five cities in the south of China, we defined the time period of level I response (1/23-2/24/2020) as level I lockdown, and women who were pregnant during level I lockdown as the exposure group. Women who were pregnant during the same calendar month from 2015 to 2019 were defined as the unexposed group. We quantitatively estimate the individual cumulative exposure dose by giving different weights to days with different emergency response levels. Generalized linear regression models were used to estimate the association between COVID-19 lockdown exposure with birth weight and risk of low birth weight (<2,500 g) and macrosomia (>4,000 g). Results The birth weight of the exposed group is heavier than the unexposed group (3,238.52 vs. 3,224.11 g: adjusted β = 24.39 g [95% CI: 21.88, 26.91 g]). The exposed group had a higher risk of macrosomia (2.8% vs. 2.6%; adjusted OR = 1.17 [95% CI: 1.12, 1.22]). More obvious associations were found between COVID-19 lockdown and macrosomia in women who experienced the lockdown in their early pregnancy. Women who experienced the lockdown at their 4-7 weeks of pregnancy showed statistically significant heavier birth weight than unexposed group (after adjustment): β = 1.28 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.46) g. We also observed a positive association between cumulative exposure dose of COVID-19 lockdown in all pregnant women and birth weight, after divided into four groups, Q1: β = 32.95 (95% CI: 28.16, 37.75) g; Q2: β = 18.88 (95% CI: 14.12, 23.64) g; Q3: β = 19.50 (95% CI: 14.73, 24.28) g; Q4: β = 21.82 (95% CI: 17.08, 26.56) g. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the risk of low birth weight between exposed and unexposed groups. Conclusions The COVID-19 lockdown measures were associated with a heavier birth weight and a higher risk of macrosomia. Early pregnancy periods may be a more susceptible exposure window for a heavier birth weight and a higher risk of macrosomia. We also observed a positive association between cumulative exposure dose of COVID-19 lockdown and birth weight. The government and health institutions should pay attention to the long-term health of the infants born during the COVID-19 lockdown period, and follow up these mothers and infants is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Chen
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingjie Fan
- The Prevention and Health Care Department, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaowei Li
- Department of Health Management, Dongguan Qingxi Hospital, Qingxi Town, Dongguan, China
| | - Yufeng Ye
- Radiological Department, Guangzhou Panyu Central Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanyun Lv
- The Health Care Office of the Hospital Infection Department, Affiliated Jiangmen Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Jiangmen, China
| | - Suijin Zheng
- The Affiliated Houjie Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Jianxiong Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Institute of Public Health, Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yudong Pu
- Precision Medicine Center, Dongguan Songshan Lake Central Hospital, Dongguan, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Quinones S, Mendola P, Tian L, Lin S, Novignon J, Angeles G, Palermo T. Ghana's Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (1000) Program Seasonally Impacts Birthweight: A Difference-in-Differences Analysis. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605336. [PMID: 36891221 PMCID: PMC9986251 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Low birthweight (LBW) prevalence remains high in African countries and evidence of cash transfer impacts on birthweight, particularly by season of infant birth, is limited. This study examines overall and seasonal cash transfer impacts on LBW in rural Ghana. Methods: Data come from a longitudinal, quasi-experimental impact evaluation of the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) 1,000 unconditional cash transfer program for impoverished pregnant or lactating women in rural districts of Northern Ghana. LEAP1000 program impacts on average birthweight and LBW were estimated for a multiply imputed sample of 3,258 and a panel sample of 1,567 infants using differences-in-differences models and triple difference models to assess impacts by season. Results: LEAP1000 decreased LBW prevalence by 3.5 and 4.1 percentage points overall and in the dry season, respectively. LEAP1000 increased average birthweight by 94, 109, and 79 g overall, in the dry season, and in the rainy season, respectively. Conclusion: Our findings of positive LEAP1000 impacts on birthweight across seasons and on LBW in the dry season demonstrate the need to take seasonal vulnerabilities into account when designing and implementing programs for rural populations in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Quinones
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Pauline Mendola
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Lili Tian
- Department of Biostatistics, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Shao Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, United States.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - Jacob Novignon
- Department of Economics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Gustavo Angeles
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Tia Palermo
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
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He Y, Li J, Yue T, Zheng W, Guo Y, Zhang H, Chen L, Li C, Li H, Cui C, Qi X, Su B. Seasonality and Sex-Biased Fluctuation of Birth Weight in Tibetan Populations. PHENOMICS (CHAM, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 2:64-71. [PMID: 36939792 PMCID: PMC9590487 DOI: 10.1007/s43657-021-00038-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Birth weight (BW) is a key determinant of infant mortality. Previous studies have reported seasonal fluctuation of BW. However, the responsible environmental factors remain disputable. High-altitude environment provides a great opportunity to test the current hypotheses due to its distinctive climate conditions. We collected BW data of ~ 9000 Tibetan singletons born at Lhasa (elevation: 3660 m) from 2014 to 2018. Using regression models, we analyzed BW seasonality of highland Tibetans. Multivariate models with meteorological factors as independent variables were employed to examine responsible environmental factors accounting for seasonal variation. We compared BW, low-BW prevalence and sex ratio between highland and lowland populations, and we observed a significant seasonal pattern of BW in Tibetans, with a peak in winter and a trough in summer. Notably, there is a marked sex-biased pattern of BW seasonality (more striking in males than in females). Sunlight exposure in the 3rd trimester and barometric pressure exposure in the 2nd trimester are significantly correlated with BW, and the latter can be explained by seasonal change of oxygen partial pressure. In particular, due to the male-biased BW seasonality, we found a more serious BW reduction and higher prevalence of low-BW in males, and a skewed sex ratio in highlanders. The infant BW of highland Tibetans has a clear pattern of seasonality. The winter BW is larger than the summer BW, due to the longer sunlight exposure during the late-trimester. Male infants are more sensitive to hypoxia than female infants during the 2nd trimester, leading to more BW reduction and higher mortality. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43657-021-00038-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoxi He
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
| | - Jun Li
- Fukang Obstetrics, Gynecology and Children Branch Hospital, Tibetan Fukang Hospital, Lhasa, 850000 China
- High Altitude Medical Research Center, School of Medicine, Tibetan University, Lhasa, 850000 China
| | - Tian Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Wangshan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Yongbo Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Hui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
| | - Li Chen
- Fukang Obstetrics, Gynecology and Children Branch Hospital, Tibetan Fukang Hospital, Lhasa, 850000 China
| | - Chunxia Li
- Fukang Obstetrics, Gynecology and Children Branch Hospital, Tibetan Fukang Hospital, Lhasa, 850000 China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Fukang Obstetrics, Gynecology and Children Branch Hospital, Tibetan Fukang Hospital, Lhasa, 850000 China
| | - Chaoying Cui
- High Altitude Medical Research Center, School of Medicine, Tibetan University, Lhasa, 850000 China
| | - Xuebin Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
- Fukang Obstetrics, Gynecology and Children Branch Hospital, Tibetan Fukang Hospital, Lhasa, 850000 China
| | - Bing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
- Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223 China
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Uji T, Wada K, Yamakawa M, Koda S, Nakashima Y, Onuma S, Nagata C. Birth month and mortality in Japan: a population-based prospective cohort study. Chronobiol Int 2021; 38:1023-1031. [PMID: 33792442 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2021.1903482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies investigating the association between birth season and risk of mortality in adulthood are limited and have yielded inconclusive results. We aimed to examine the relationship between birth month and all-cause and cause-specific mortality, after controlling for potential confounders, including lifestyle and medical factors, in a population-based cohort study in Japan. We included 28,884 subjects (13,262 men and 15,622 women) from Takayama City, aged 35 years or older without cancer, stroke, and ischemic heart disease, who were born in Japan at baseline. Participants who were enrolled in 1992 were followed up for over 16 years. Information including place of birth, lifestyles, and medical history was obtained from a baseline questionnaire. We performed a Cox proportional hazards analysis to determine the association between birth month and all-cause and cause-specific mortality after adjusting for potential confounders. During the follow-up period (mean follow-up: 14.1 years), 5,303 deaths (2,881 men and 2,422 women) were identified. After controlling for multiple covariates, it was found that being born in April or June was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality compared to being born in January (hazard ratio [HR] 1.138; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.006-1.288 and HR 1.169; 95% CI, 1.028-1.329, respectively). The HRs for cardiovascular mortality were significantly higher in participants born in March and May (HR 1.285; 95% CI, 1.056-1.565 and HR 1.293; 95% CI, 1.040-1.608, respectively). Our findings indicate that an individual's birth month may be an indicator of the susceptibility to mortality in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Uji
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Keiko Wada
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Michiyo Yamakawa
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Sachi Koda
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yuma Nakashima
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Sakiko Onuma
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Chisato Nagata
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
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A systematic review on the association of month and season of birth with future anthropometric measures. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:31-45. [PMID: 32353858 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-0908-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal factors might have some health impacts later in life. This study aims to systematically review the current literature on the association between season and month of birth with birth weight as well as with weight status in childhood. METHODS The search process was conducted in electronic databases, including papers published until April 2019 in ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The following search strategy was used with MeSH terms: ("Seasons"[Mesh]) AND ("Obesity"[Mesh] OR "Pediatric Obesity"[Mesh] OR "Obesity, Abdominal"[Mesh] OR "Overweight"[Mesh] OR "Birth Weight"[Mesh] OR "Body Height"[Mesh]). After the selection process, 50 papers were included in this systematic review. RESULTS This review showed that individuals who are born in cold season (winter month) have higher body mass index (BMI) and weight in childhood. Birth in March was associated with lower weight and BMI in boys according to most studies. All studies, except one of them, showed that season/month of birth was not associated with birth weight. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review confirms a relationship between season and month of birth with birth weight and body size in childhood; however, the impact of confounding factors, for example, vitamin D status, should be considered in the underlying pathway of this association. IMPACT The results provide evidence for the effect of season and month of birth on body size in childhood. Our systematic review suggests that there is no pattern between birth weight and season/month of birth, and the occurrence of low birth weight was more frequent among infants who were born in summer than others. Further research should focus on identifying the impact of confounding factors, for example, vitamin D status in the underlying pathway of this association. There was response to the controversial findings about the effect of environment factors, such as season and month of birth, and future anthropometric indices, such as obesity, weight, height, and birth weight. Obesity is a complex and multifactorial disorder; the findings of the current study would be useful in determining the relationship pathway between the season and the month of birth with other underlying factors for childhood obesity.
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Yang D, Qiu J, Qin A, Chen L, Yang Y, Huang Z, Qian J, Zhu W. Blood Glucose Level, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Maternal Birth Season: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:793489. [PMID: 34975761 PMCID: PMC8716549 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.793489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous evidence indicates that birth season is associated with type 2 diabetes in adults. However, information on the association of birth with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is lacking. The present study explores the association between birth seasonality and GDM in East China. METHODS This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the International Peace Maternal and child health hospital between 2014 and 2019. A total of 79, 292 pregnant women were included in the study after excluding participants with previous GDM, stillbirth, polycystic ovary syndrome, and lack of GDM laboratory records. The multivariate logistic regression model was employed to estimate the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. After log transformation of blood glucose level, the percentage change and 95% confidence interval were estimated by a multivariate linear model. RESULTS The risk of GDM among pregnant women born in spring, autumn, and winter was not significantly different compared to that among participants born in summer. Pregnant women born in autumn had significantly higher 1-hour postprandial blood glucose (PBG-1h) and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (PBG-2h) levels than pregnant women born in summer. Compared to pregnant women born in August, the PBG-1h level of pregnant women born in October, November, and December increased significantly, whereas the PBG-2h levels of pregnant women born in November and December increased significantly. CONCLUSION Pregnant women born in autumn exhibit higher postprandial blood glucose levels during pregnancy than in those born in summer. The findings provide evidence that exposure to seasonal changes in early life may influence blood glucose metabolism during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongjian Yang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingbo Qiu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - An Qin
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Chen
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya Yang
- Department of Infection control, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Huang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieyan Qian
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Zhu,
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Santos RC, Silva ACPE, José Dos Santos M, Barbosa MR, Coimbra DG, Gitaí DLG, de Andrade TG. Environmental temperature as a mediator on the association between photoperiod at birth and chronotype. Chronobiol Int 2020; 37:1662-1668. [PMID: 32573265 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2020.1773843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The association between chronotypes and season of birth (SOB) remains an inconclusive issue due, in some extension, to the lack of investigations of mediation mechanisms. We evaluated the association of photoperiod at birth (PAB) with chronotypes and sleep duration in Brazil (n = 810), and the mediating effect of meteorological factors, sex, age and rs4753426 polymorphism in the melatonin receptor MTNR1B. Longer PAB was associated with a delayed mid-sleep phase with a suppressive effect of maximum environmental temperature. No significant interactions were identified for the other variables. These findings suggest that photoperiod and environmental temperature modulate chronotype development at early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Costa Santos
- Circadian Medicine Center, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Alagoas , Maceió, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Gomes Coimbra
- Circadian Medicine Center, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Alagoas , Maceió, Brazil
| | - Daniel Leite Góes Gitaí
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Health, Feferal University of Alagoas , Maceió, Brazil
| | - Tiago Gomes de Andrade
- Circadian Medicine Center, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Alagoas , Maceió, Brazil
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Garay SM, Savory KA, Sumption LA, Penketh RJ, Jones IR, Janssen AB, John RM. Seasonal variation in salivary cortisol but not symptoms of depression and trait anxiety in pregnant women undergoing an elective caesarean section. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 108:14-19. [PMID: 31181440 PMCID: PMC6854466 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Seasonal changes in mood and behaviour are commonly reported in the general population but considerably less is known regarding seasonality and pregnancy. This study investigated the relationship between seasons and depression and anxiety symptoms, salivary cortisol concentrations, custom birthweight centiles (CBWC) and placenta weight for pregnant women living in South Wales. METHODS This study utilised data from the longitudinal Grown in Wales (GiW) cohort. Women were recruited at the presurgical elective caesarean section (ELCS) appointment, when they provided saliva samples and completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and trait subscale of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Data on birthweight and placental weight was extracted from medical notes. Seasonal data was available for 316 participants. RESULTS No association was identified between seasons and EPDS (p = .178), STAI scores (p = .544), CBWC (p = .683) or placental weight (p = .857). Significance was identified between seasons and salivary cortisol concentration (p<.001), with highest levels in autumn and winter. Adjusted linear regression identified spring (B=-.05, p=.007, 95% CI -.09, -.01) and summer (B=-.06, p = .001, 95% CI -09, -.02) compared to autumn, and spring (B=-.05, p=.009, 95% CI -.09, -.01) and summer (B=-.06, p=.002, 95% CI -.10, -.02) compared to winter to be associated with decreased cortisol concentrations. CONCLUSION This study found no association between season and maternally-reported mental health symptoms, birthweight by CBWC or placental weight but did between season and term salivary cortisol. This finding will have implications for studies that do not account for seasonality when using salivary cortisol as a biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M. Garay
- Biomedicine Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, United Kingdom
| | - Katrina A. Savory
- Biomedicine Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, United Kingdom
| | - Lorna A. Sumption
- Biomedicine Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J.A. Penketh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Wales, Cardiff, Wales, CF144XW, United Kingdom
| | - Ian R. Jones
- National Centre for Mental Health, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, CF14 4XN, United Kingdom
| | - Anna B. Janssen
- Biomedicine Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, United Kingdom
| | - Rosalind M. John
- Biomedicine Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, United Kingdom,Corresponding author.
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Sun S, Spangler KR, Weinberger KR, Yanosky JD, Braun JM, Wellenius GA. Ambient Temperature and Markers of Fetal Growth: A Retrospective Observational Study of 29 Million U.S. Singleton Births. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2019; 127:67005. [PMID: 31162981 PMCID: PMC6792370 DOI: 10.1289/ehp4648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging studies suggest that ambient temperature during pregnancy may be associated with fetal growth, but the existing evidence is limited and inconsistent. OBJECTIVES We aimed to evaluate the association of trimester-specific temperature with risk of being born small for gestational age (SGA) and birth weight-markers of fetal growth-among term births in the contiguous United States. METHODS We included data on 29,597,735 live singleton births between 1989 and 2002 across 403 U.S. counties. We estimated daily county-level population-weighted mean temperature using a spatially refined gridded climate data set. We used logistic regression to estimate the association between trimester-specific temperature and risk of SGA and linear regression to evaluate the association between trimester-specific temperature and term birth weight z-score, adjusting for parity, maternal demographics, smoking or drinking during pregnancy, chronic hypertension, and year and month of conception. We then pooled results overall and by geographic regions and climate zones. RESULTS High ambient temperatures ([Formula: see text] percentile) during the entire pregnancy were associated with higher risk of term SGA {odds ratio [OR] [Formula: see text] 1.041 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.029, 1.054]} and lower term birth weight [standardized to [Formula: see text] (95% CI: [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) reduction in birth weight for infants born at 40 weeks of gestation]. Low temperatures ([Formula: see text] percentile) during the entire pregnancy were not associated with SGA [OR [Formula: see text] 1.003 (95% CI: 0.991, 1.015)] but were associated with a small decrement in term birth weight [standardized to [Formula: see text] (95% CI: [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text])]. Risks of term SGA and birth weight were more strongly associated with temperature averaged across the second and third trimesters, in areas the Northeast, and in areas with cold or very cold climates. CONCLUSIONS Above-average temperatures during pregnancy were associated with lower fetal growth. Our findings provide evidence that temperature may be a novel risk factor for reduced fetal growth. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP4648.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengzhi Sun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Keith R. Spangler
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Kate R. Weinberger
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Jeff D. Yanosky
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Joseph M. Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Gregory A. Wellenius
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
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Li S, Wang J, Xu Z, Wang X, Xu G, Zhang J, Shen X, Tong S. Exploring associations of maternal exposure to ambient temperature with duration of gestation and birth weight: a prospective study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2018; 18:513. [PMID: 30594173 PMCID: PMC6311008 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-018-2100-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence suggests the possible impact of ambient high temperature on fetal growth and birth outcomes. However, little is known about the relative impact of exposure to heat and cold and the possible vulnerable window during pregnancy. Methods Data on a total of 237,585 pregnant women from January 1st, 2001 to December 31st, 2010 were acquired from the Queensland Health, Australia. Daily data on meteorological factors, including ambient temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, and air pollutants, such as PM10, SO2, NO2, and O3, were obtained from relevant government agencies. This study was to examine the associations of maternal exposure to ambient temperature (high and low temperatures, in early vs. late pregnancy) with the duration of gestation and birth weight. Results A J-shaped association between minimum temperature at conception and duration of gestation was observed after adjusting for seasonality and other confounders. Compared to women who were exposed to the minimum temperature of 15–20 °C in the first gestational week, exposure to the minimum temperature of > 20 °C significantly increased the duration of gestation by 0.029 weeks (95% CI: 0.008, 0.049). A cumulative effect was found when exposure across the first four weeks was examined. There was an inverted U-shaped relationship between minimum temperature at delivery and the duration of gestation. Compared to women exposed to 15–20 °C, exposure to minimum temperature of > 20 °C and ≤ 10 °C was associated with a shortened gestation by 0.030 weeks (95% CI: -0.052, − 0.008) and 0.018 weeks (95% CI: -0.057, − 0.004), respectively. By contrast, an inverse relationship between maximum temperature and birth weight was observed. Compared to exposure to the maximum temperature of > 30 °C in the last week of pregnancy, maternal exposure to 20–25 °C and < 20 °C significantly increased birth weight by 0.011 kg (95% CI: 0.008, 0.018) and 0.018 kg (95% CI: 0.010, 0.031), respectively. Similarly, a mild cumulative effect was observed when maximum temperature exposure across the four weeks before delivery was evaluated. Conclusions The finding emphasized the importance of keeping an optimal temperature range during pregnancy for reducing the risk of preterm birth and low birthweight. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12884-018-2100-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghui Li
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China. .,MOE - Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiajia Wang
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Zhiwei Xu
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gang Xu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,MOE - Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoming Shen
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,MOE - Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shilu Tong
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Weng YH, Yang CY, Chiu YW. Adverse neonatal outcomes in relation to ambient temperatures at birth: A nationwide survey in Taiwan. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2018; 73:48-55. [PMID: 28409661 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2017.1299084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the temperature-specific risks of adverse neonatal outcomes in Taiwan. Over 2 million births between 2001 and 2010 were correlated with the daily mean outdoor temperatures at birth. A log-binomial model was used to estimate the risk of adverse neonatal outcomes in relation to ambient temperature at birth after adjusting for possible confounders. There was a significant correlation of temperature extremes with stillbirth, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Maternal exposure to temperature extremes carried greater risks of stillbirth (> 23.4°C), preterm birth (< 19.5°C and > 25.4°C), and low birth weight (< 15.5°C and > 23.4°C) than did temperatures of 21.5°C∼23.4°C. In conclusion, infants born to women exposed to temperature extremes possess greater risks for stillbirth, preterm birth, and low birth weight. The data suggest optimal temperatures to minimize overall adverse neonatal outcomes are 21.5°C∼23.4°C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hao Weng
- a Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Chang Gung University College of Medicine , Taipei , Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yuh Yang
- b Department of Public Health , Kaohsiung Medical University , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Ya-Wen Chiu
- c Master Program in Global Health and Development, Health Policy and Care Research Center, College of Public Health , Taipei Medical University , Taipei , Taiwan
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Si J, Yu C, Guo Y, Bian Z, Li X, Yang L, Chen Y, Sun H, Yu B, Chen J, Chen Z, Lv J, Li L. Season of birth and the risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood: a prospective cohort study of 0.5 million Chinese adults. Diabetologia 2017; 60:836-842. [PMID: 28064359 PMCID: PMC6521727 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-016-4200-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS Season of birth as a surrogate for potential environmental exposure during fetal development and early postnatal life has shown an inconsistent association with adult type 2 diabetes in white populations living in high-latitude regions. The present study aimed to examine the association between birth seasonality and risk of adult type 2 diabetes in Chinese individuals living across wide regions of low latitude and lower to middle latitude. METHODS Participants from the China Kadoorie Biobank were enrolled during 2004-2008 and followed up until 31 December 2013. After excluding participants with cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes at baseline, the present study included 189,153 men and 272,058 women aged 30-79 years. We used multivariable Cox proportional hazards model to estimate the HR and 95% CI. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 7.2 years (3.3 million person-years), we documented 8784 incident cases of type 2 diabetes. In the whole cohort, compared with summer-born participants, the adjusted HRs (95% CIs) were 1.09 (1.02, 1.16), 1.08 (1.02, 1.15) and 1.09 (1.02, 1.15) for those who were born in Spring, Autumn and Winter, respectively. The association was consistent in both men and women and across subgroups defined by residence and lifestyle factors later in life. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION In this large prospective study, participants born in summer had a lower risk of adult type 2 diabetes compared with other seasons of birth, suggesting exposures in early life with some degree of seasonal variation might influence the risk of adult diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Si
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Canqing Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Guo
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Bian
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Yang
- Clinical Trial Service Unit & Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU), Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yiping Chen
- Clinical Trial Service Unit & Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU), Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Huarong Sun
- NCDs Prevention and Control Department, Huixian Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Xinxiang, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Yu
- NCDs Prevention and Control Department, Nangang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin, Heilongjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Junshi Chen
- China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhengming Chen
- Clinical Trial Service Unit & Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU), Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jun Lv
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China.
- Peking University Institute of Environmental Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Liming Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China.
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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Rashid H, Kagami M, Ferdous F, Ma E, Terao T, Hayashi T, Wagatsuma Y. Temperature during pregnancy influences the fetal growth and birth size. Trop Med Health 2016; 45:1. [PMID: 28077924 PMCID: PMC5223368 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-016-0041-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birth weight and length have seasonal fluctuations. However, it is uncertain which meteorological element has an effect on birth outcomes and which timing of pregnancy would explain such effect. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine temperature effects during pregnancy and which timing of pregnancy has effects on size at birth. METHODS A large, randomized, controlled trial of food and micronutrient supplementation for pregnant women was conducted in Matlab, Bangladesh (MINIMat Study), where women were enrolled from November 2001 to October 2003. The fetal growth data which included the size at birth and information of their mothers were obtained (n = 3267). Meteorological data such as temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, and daily sunshine hours during pregnancy were observed at the nearest observatory site of Bangladesh Meteorological Department. RESULTS Infants born in colder months (November-January) were shorter than those born in hot and dry, and monsoon months (mean (SD) of birth length was 47.5 cm (2.2) vs. 47.8 cm (2.1) vs. 47.9 cm (2.1) respectively; P < 0.001). Increased temperature during the last month of pregnancy was significantly related with increased birth length with adjustment for gestational weeks and the season at birth, and remained significant with further adjustments for precipitation, sex of infants, maternal early-pregnancy BMI, parity, and education status of the mother (P < 0.01). On the other hand, increased temperature at mid-gestation was associated with increased birth weight (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that temperature affects both birth weight and length. The more temperature increased at the last month of pregnancy, birth length became longer. For birth weight, the temperature at mid-pregnancy affected in a positive way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harunor Rashid
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan ; International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Miki Kagami
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Farzana Ferdous
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Enbo Ma
- Department of Clinical Trial and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575 Japan
| | - Toru Terao
- Faculty of Education, Kagawa University, Takamatsu, Kagawa Japan
| | - Taiichi Hayashi
- Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukiko Wagatsuma
- Department of Clinical Trial and Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575 Japan
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15
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Woo Y, Ouh YT, Ahn KH, Cho GJ, Hong SC, Oh MJ, Kim HJ. Seasonal Pattern of Preterm Births in Korea for 2000-2012. J Korean Med Sci 2016; 31:1797-1801. [PMID: 27709859 PMCID: PMC5056213 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2016.31.11.1797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate a seasonal pattern of preterm births in Korea. Data were obtained from the national birth registry of the Korean Statistics Office and included all births in Korea during the period 2000-2012 (n = 6,310,800). Delivery dates were grouped by month of the year or by season (winter [December, January, February], spring [March, April, May], summer [June, July, August], and autumn [September, October, November]). The seasonal patterns of prevalence of preterm births were assessed. The rates of preterm births at 37 weeks were highest twice a year (once in winter and again in summer). The rates of preterm births increased by 13.9% in summer and 7.5% in winter, respectively, than in spring (OR, 1.139; 95% CI, 1.127-1.152, and OR, 1.075; 95% 1.064-1.087, respectively) after controlling for age, the educational level of the parents, maternal parity, and neonatal gender. The pattern for spontaneous preterm births < 34 weeks was similar. In Korea, a seasonal pattern of preterm births was observed, with peak prevalence in summer and winter. A seasonal pattern of preterm births may provide new insights for the pathophysiology of preterm births.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonmi Woo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yung Taek Ouh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki Hoon Ahn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Geum Joon Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Soon Cheol Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Jeong Oh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hai Joong Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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16
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Secular trends in seasonal variation in birth weight. Early Hum Dev 2015; 91:361-5. [PMID: 25916263 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2015.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many environmental factors have been shown to influence birth weight (BW) and one of these are season of birth. AIM The aim of the present study was to investigate the seasonal variation in BW in Denmark during 1936-1989, and to see if the variation could be explained by sunshine exposure during pregnancy. METHODS The study population was selected from the Copenhagen School Health Records Register and included 276 339 children born between 1936 and 1989. Seasonal variation was modeled using a non-stationary sinusoidal model that allowed the underlying trend in BW and the amplitude and phase of the yearly cycles to change. RESULTS There was a clear seasonal pattern in BW which, however, changed gradually across the study period. The highest BWs were seen during fall (September - October) from 1936 to 1963, but a new peak gradually grew from the early 1940s during early summer (May - June) and became the highest from 1964 to 1989. The amplitude of the fall peak started at 25.5 (95%CI 24.6; 25.9) grams and gradually disappeared. The amplitude of the early summer peak gradually arose from nothing to a peak of 18.6 (95%CI 17.7; 19.6) grams in the mid 1980s where it started to decrease again. Sunshine did not explain the seasonal variation in BW. CONCLUSION There was a clear seasonal pattern in BW in Denmark 1936-1989, which however changed across the study period. Throughout the study period we observed a peak in BW during the fall, but gradually, starting in the early 1940s, an additional early summer peak emerged and became the highest from 1964 and onwards.
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17
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Vicedo-Cabrera AM, Olsson D, Forsberg B. Exposure to seasonal temperatures during the last month of gestation and the risk of preterm birth in Stockholm. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:3962-78. [PMID: 25867199 PMCID: PMC4410227 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120403962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence from studies performed mainly in warm climates suggests an association between exposure to extreme temperatures late in pregnancy and an increased risk of preterm delivery. However, there have been fewer studies on the effect of low temperatures. The aim of this study is to explore the potential association between both heat and cold during late pregnancy and an increased risk of preterm birth in the northern location of Stockholm, Sweden. All singleton spontaneous births that took place in greater Stockholm (1998–2006) were included. Non-linear and delayed effects of mean temperature on the risk of preterm birth were explored through distributed lag non-linear models. Extreme and moderate heat and cold were estimated separately through quasi-Poisson regression analysis in two seasonal periods (heat in warm season, cold in cold season). The risk of preterm birth increased by 4%–5% when the mean temperature reached the 75th percentile (moderate heat) four weeks earlier (reference: the annual median value), with a maximum cumulative risk ratio of 2.50 (95% confidence interval: 1.02–6.15). Inconsistent associations were obtained for cold and extreme heat. Exposure to moderately high temperatures during late pregnancy might be associated with an increase in risk of preterm birth in Stockholm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Vicedo-Cabrera
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, SE901 87 Umeå, Sweden.
| | - David Olsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, SE901 87 Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Bertil Forsberg
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Umeå University, SE901 87 Umeå, Sweden.
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18
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Lakshmanan A, Chiu YHM, Coull BA, Just AC, Maxwell SL, Schwartz J, Gryparis A, Kloog I, Wright RJ, Wright RO. Associations between prenatal traffic-related air pollution exposure and birth weight: Modification by sex and maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 137:268-277. [PMID: 25601728 PMCID: PMC4354711 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal traffic-related air pollution exposure is linked to adverse birth outcomes. However, modifying effects of maternal body mass index (BMI) and infant sex remain virtually unexplored. OBJECTIVES We examined whether associations between prenatal air pollution and birth weight differed by sex and maternal BMI in 670 urban ethnically mixed mother-child pairs. METHODS Black carbon (BC) levels were estimated using a validated spatio-temporal land-use regression (LUR) model; fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was estimated using a hybrid LUR model incorporating satellite-derived Aerosol Optical Depth measures. Using stratified multivariable-adjusted regression analyses, we examined whether associations between prenatal air pollution and calculated birth weight for gestational age (BWGA) z-scores varied by sex and maternal pre-pregnancy BMI. RESULTS Median birth weight was 3.3±0.6kg; 33% of mothers were obese (BMI ≥30kg/m(3)). In stratified analyses, the association between higher PM2.5 and lower birth weight was significant in males of obese mothers (-0.42 unit of BWGA z-score change per IQR increase in PM2.5, 95%CI: -0.79 to -0.06) ( PM2.5×sex×obesity Pinteraction=0.02). Results were similar for BC models (Pinteraction=0.002). CONCLUSIONS Associations of prenatal exposure to traffic-related air pollution and reduced birth weight were most evident in males born to obese mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Lakshmanan
- Division of Neonatal Medicine, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Brent A. Coull
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Allan C. Just
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sarah L. Maxwell
- Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Joel Schwartz
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexandros Gryparis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Itai Kloog
- Department of Geography and Environmental Development, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Rosalind J. Wright
- Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert O. Wright
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- The Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Hughes MM, Katz J, Mullany LC, Khatry SK, LeClerq SC, Darmstadt GL, Tielsch JM. Seasonality of birth outcomes in rural Sarlahi District, Nepal: a population-based prospective cohort. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2014; 14:310. [PMID: 25195204 PMCID: PMC4162951 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background While seasonality of birth outcomes has been documented in a variety of settings, data from rural South Asia are lacking. We report a descriptive study of the seasonality of prematurity, low birth weight, small for gestational age, neonatal deaths, and stillbirths in the plains of Nepal. Methods Using data collected prospectively during a randomized controlled trial of neonatal skin and umbilical cord cleansing with chlorhexidine, we analyzed a cohort of 23,662 babies born between September 2002 and January 2006. Project workers collected data on birth outcomes at the infant’s household. Supplemental data from other studies conducted at the same field site are presented to provide context. 95% confidence intervals were constructed around monthly estimates to examine statistical significance of findings. Results Month of birth was associated with higher risk for adverse outcomes (neonatal mortality, low birthweight, preterm, and small for gestational age), even when controlling for maternal characteristics. Infants had 87% (95% CI: 27 – 176%) increased risk of neonatal mortality when born in August, the high point, versus March, the low point. Conclusion Seasonality of neonatal deaths, stillbirths, birth weight, gestational age, and small for gestational age were found in Nepal. Maternal factors, meteorological conditions, infectious diseases, and nutritional status may be associated with these adverse birth outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the causal mechanisms that explain the seasonality of adverse birth outcomes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2393-14-310) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joanne Katz
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA.
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Bashore CJ, Geer LA, He X, Puett R, Parsons PJ, Palmer CD, Steuerwald AJ, Abulafia O, Dalloul M, Sapkota A. Maternal mercury exposure, season of conception and adverse birth outcomes in an urban immigrant community in Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:8414-42. [PMID: 25153469 PMCID: PMC4143869 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110808414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2014] [Revised: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Adverse birth outcomes including preterm birth (PTB: <37 weeks gestation) and low birth weight (LBW: <2500 g) can result in severe infant morbidity and mortality. In the United States, there are racial and ethnic differences in the prevalence of PTB and LBW. We investigated the association between PTB and LBW with prenatal mercury (Hg) exposure and season of conception in an urban immigrant community in Brooklyn, New York. We recruited 191 pregnant women aged 18-45 in a Brooklyn Prenatal Clinic and followed them until delivery. Urine specimens were collected from the participants during the 6th to 9th month of pregnancy. Cord blood specimens and neonate anthropometric data were collected at birth. We used multivariate logistic regression models to investigate the odds of LBW or PTB with either maternal urinary mercury or neonate cord blood mercury. We used linear regression models to investigate the association between continuous anthropometric outcomes and maternal urinary mercury or neonate cord blood mercury. We also examined the association between LBW and PTB and the season that pregnancy began. Results showed higher rates of PTB and LBW in this cohort of women compared to other studies. Pregnancies beginning in winter (December, January, February) were at increased odds of LBW births compared with births from pregnancies that began in all other months (OR7.52 [95% CI 1.65, 34.29]). We observed no association between maternal exposure to Hg, and either LBW or PTB. The apparent lack of association is consistent with other studies. Further examination of seasonal association with LBW is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia J Bashore
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, Room 2234F, College Park, MD 20742-2611, USA.
| | - Laura A Geer
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Downstate School of Public Health, State University of New York, Box 43,450 Clarkson Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11203-2533, USA.
| | - Xin He
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland College Park School of Public Health, 2234H SPH Building, College Park, MD 20742-2611, USA.
| | - Robin Puett
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, Room 2234F, College Park, MD 20742-2611, USA.
| | - Patrick J Parsons
- Laboratory of Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry, Wadsworth Center, Department of Health, New York State University, Albany, NY 12201-0509, USA.
| | - Christopher D Palmer
- Laboratory of Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry, Wadsworth Center, Department of Health, New York State University, Albany, NY 12201-0509, USA.
| | - Amy J Steuerwald
- Laboratory of Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry, Wadsworth Center, Department of Health, New York State University, Albany, NY 12201-0509, USA.
| | - Ovadia Abulafia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, 445 Lenox Road, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Mudar Dalloul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, 445 Lenox Road, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
| | - Amir Sapkota
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health, College Park, Room 2234F, College Park, MD 20742-2611, USA.
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21
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Pomeroy E, Wells JC, Stanojevic S, Miranda JJ, Cole TJ, Stock JT. Birth month associations with height, head circumference, and limb lengths among peruvian children. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2014; 154:115-24. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Pomeroy
- Newnham CollegeUniversity of CambridgeCambridge UK
- Division of Biological AnthropologyDepartment of Archaeology and AnthropologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridge UK
| | | | - Sanja Stanojevic
- Division of Respiratory MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenToronto ON Canada
| | - J. Jaime Miranda
- CRONICAS Centre of Excellence in Chronic Diseases and Department of MedicineSchool of Medicine, Universidad Peruana Cayetano HerediaLima Peru
| | - Tim J. Cole
- Centre of Paediatric Epidemiology and BiostatisticsUCL Institute of Child HealthLondon UK
| | - Jay T. Stock
- Division of Biological AnthropologyDepartment of Archaeology and AnthropologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridge UK
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22
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Van Zutphen AR, Hsu WH, Lin S. Extreme winter temperature and birth defects: a population-based case-control study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2014; 128:1-8. [PMID: 24407473 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Revised: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/23/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE We examined the relationship between extreme winter temperatures and birth defects to determine whether pregnant women might be vulnerable to the weather extremes expected with climate change. METHODS In this population-based, case-control study, we linked the New York State Congenital Malformations Registry to birth certificates (1992-2006). Cases were defined as live births with birth defects, and controls were selected from a 10% random sample of live births. We assigned meteorological data based on maternal birth residence and summarized universal apparent temperature across gestational weeks 3-8 (embryogenesis). We defined an extreme cold day as a day with mean temperature below the 10th percentile of the regional winter temperature distribution and a cold spell as 3 consecutive extreme cold days. We averaged temperature for each week of the first trimester to identify susceptible periods. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with multivariable logistic regression for 30 birth defects groups. RESULTS Among 13,044 cases and 59,884 controls with at least 1 week of embryogenesis in winter, coarctation of the aorta was associated with a 1°C decrease in mean universal apparent temperature (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02-1.11), cold spell (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.11-2.34), and number of extreme cold days. We observed reduced odds of hypoplastic left heart syndrome and dislocated hip for some cold indicators. CONCLUSIONS Most birth defects were not associated with cold indicators; however, we found positive associations between cold indicators and coarctation of the aorta in the biologically-relevant developmental window which warrants replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alissa R Van Zutphen
- New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Environmental & Occupational Epidemiology, Empire State Plaza, Corning Tower, Room 1203, Albany, NY 12237, United States; University at Albany, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, One University Place, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Wan-Hsiang Hsu
- New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Environmental & Occupational Epidemiology, Empire State Plaza, Corning Tower, Room 1203, Albany, NY 12237, United States; University at Albany, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, One University Place, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Shao Lin
- New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Environmental & Occupational Epidemiology, Empire State Plaza, Corning Tower, Room 1203, Albany, NY 12237, United States; University at Albany, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, One University Place, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States.
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Beltran AJ, Wu J, Laurent O. Associations of meteorology with adverse pregnancy outcomes: a systematic review of preeclampsia, preterm birth and birth weight. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 11:91-172. [PMID: 24362545 PMCID: PMC3924438 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110100091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Revised: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The relationships between meteorology and pregnancy outcomes are not well known. This article reviews available evidence on the relationships between seasonality or meteorology and three major pregnancy outcomes: the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (including preeclampsia, eclampsia and gestational hypertension), gestational length and birth weight. In total 35, 28 and 27 studies were identified for each of these outcomes. The risks of preeclampsia appear higher for women with conception during the warmest months, and delivery in the coldest months of the year. Delivery in the coldest months is also associated with a higher eclampsia risk. Patterns of decreased gestational lengths have been observed for births in winter, as well as summer months. Most analytical studies also report decreases in gestational lengths associated with heat. Birth weights are lower for deliveries occurring in winter and in summer months. Only a limited number of studies have investigated the effects of barometric pressure on gestational length or the effects of temperature and sunshine exposure on birth weight, but these questions appear worth investigating further. Available results should encourage further etiological research aiming at enhancing our understanding of the relationships between meteorology and adverse pregnancy outcomes, ideally via harmonized multicentric studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jun Wu
- Program in Public Health, Anteater Instruction & Research Bldg (AIRB), 653 East Peltason Drive, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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Schreier N, Moltchanova E, Forsén T, Kajantie E, Eriksson JG. Seasonality and ambient temperature at time of conception in term-born individuals - influences on cardiovascular disease and obesity in adult life. Int J Circumpolar Health 2013; 72:21466. [PMID: 24137570 PMCID: PMC3797918 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v72i0.21466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Revised: 08/15/2013] [Accepted: 08/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The influence of environmental conditions early in life – including temperature and season – on health later in life has so far not attracted much attention. Objective Using data from the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study of 13,345 men and women, the influence of temperature and season at month of conception on birth weight, and on cardiovascular diseases and obesity-related traits in later life was studied. Design Linear regressions were fitted to examine the relationship between birth weight/obesity-related variables/hypertension and alternatively month of conception and average temperature of month of conception. The incidence of both coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular disease was assumed to follow a Weibull hazard model, and was modelled accordingly using survival analysis techniques. Results In women, unusually cold temperatures at month of conception predicted lower body mass index (BMI) and fat percentage, and protected from obesity. Warmer temperatures at month of conception were associated with higher risk for hypertension. In men, warmer temperatures around conception predicted lower BMI. No seasonal influences were detected on obesity-related variables, nor were there seasonal or temperature mediated influences on birth weight, coronary heart disease or cerebrovascular disease observed. Conclusions We suggest that ambient temperature has an influence on obesity-related outcomes and hypertension. This merits further study, also with regard to other health outcomes and from a global perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Schreier
- Department of Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland ; Folkhälsan Research Centre, Helsinki, Finland
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Atun-Einy O, Cohen D, Samuel M, Scher A. Season of birth, crawling onset, and motor development in 7-month-old infants. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2013.826347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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26
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The effect of the season of birth and of selected maternal factors on linear enamel thickness in modern human deciduous incisors. Arch Oral Biol 2013; 58:951-63. [PMID: 23583018 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2013.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Revised: 01/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Development of human tooth enamel is a part of a foetus's development; its correctness is the outcome of genetic and maternal factors shaping its prenatal environment. Many authors reported that individuals born in different seasons experience different early developmental conditions during pregnancy. In this study, we investigated the effects of season of birth and selected maternal factors on enamel thickness of deciduous incisors. DESIGN Dental sample comprises 60 deciduous incisors. The parents who handed over their children's teeth for research fill in questionnaires containing questions about the course of pregnancy. All teeth were sectioned in the labio-linqual plane using diamond blade (Buechler IsoMet 1000). The final specimens were observed by way of scanning electron microscopy at magnifications 80× and 320×. The thickness of total enamel (TE), prenatally (PE) and postnatally (PSE) formed enamel was measured. RESULTS Children born in summer and in spring (whose first and second foetal life fall on autumn and winter) have the thinnest enamel. Season of birth, number of children in family, diseases and spasmolytic medicines using by mother during pregnancy explained almost 13% of the variability of TE. Regression analysis proved a significant influence of the season of birth and selected maternal factors on the PE thickness - these factors explained over 17% of its variability. Neither of analysed variables had influenced PSE. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggests that the thickness of enamel of deciduous incisors depends on the season of birth and some maternal factors. The differences were observed only in the prenatally formed enamel.
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Tsuchiya KJ, Tsutsumi H, Matsumoto K, Takei N, Narumiya M, Honda M, Thanseem I, Anitha A, Suzuki K, Matsuzaki H, Iwata Y, Nakamura K, Mori N. Seasonal variations of neuromotor development by 14 months of age: Hamamatsu Birth Cohort for mothers and children (HBC Study). PLoS One 2012; 7:e52057. [PMID: 23284868 PMCID: PMC3526524 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed at investigating whether neuromotor development, from birth to 14 months of age, shows seasonal, cyclic patterns in association with months of birth. Study participants were 742 infants enrolled in the Hamamatsu Birth Cohort (HBC) Study and followed-up from birth to the 14th month of age. Gross motor skills were assessed at the ages of 6, 10, and 14 months, using Mullen Scales of Early Learning. The score at each assessment was regressed onto a trigonometric function of months of birth, with an adjustment for potential confounders. Gross motor scores at the 6th and 10th months showed significant 1-year-cycle variations, peaking among March- and April-born infants, and among February-born infants, respectively. Changes in gross motor scores between the 10th and 14th months also showed a cyclic variation, peaking among July- and August-born infants. Due to this complementary effect, gross motor scores at the 14th month did not show seasonality. Neuromotor development showed cyclic seasonality during the first year of life. The effects brought about by month of birth disappeared around 1 year of age, and warmer months seemed to accelerate the neuromotor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji J Tsuchiya
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan.
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28
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Geer LA, Weedon J, Bell ML. Ambient air pollution and term birth weight in Texas from 1998 to 2004. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2012; 62:1285-95. [PMID: 23210220 PMCID: PMC3536032 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2012.707632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have explored the association between air pollution levels and adverse birth outcomes such as lower birth weight. Existing literature suggests an association, although results across studies are not consistent. Additional research is needed to confirm the effect, investigate the exposure window of importance, and distinguish which pollutants cause harm. We assessed the association between ambient pollutant concentrations and term birth weight for 1,548,904 births in TX from 1998 to 2004. Assignment of prenatal exposure to air pollutants was based on maternal county of residence at the time of delivery. Pollutants examined included particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter < or = 10 and < or = 2.5 microm (PM10 and PM2.5), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3). We applied a linear model with birth weight as a continuous variable. The model was adjusted for known risk factors and region. We assessed pollutant effects by trimester to identify biological exposure window of concern, and explored interaction due to race/ethnicity. An interquartile increase in ambient pollutant concentrations of SO2 and O3 was associated with a 4.99-g (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.87-8.11) and 2. 72-g (95% CI, 1.11-4.33) decrease in birth weight, respectively. Lower birth weight was associated with exposure to O3 in the first and second trimester; whereas results were not significant for other pollutants by trimester A positive association was exhibited for PM2.5 in the first trimester. Effects estimates for PM10 and PM2.5 were inconsistent across race/ethnic groups. Current ambient air pollution levels may be increasing the risk of lower birth weight for some pollutants. These risks may be increased for certain racial/ethnic groups. Additional research including consideration of improved methodology is needed to investigate these findings. Future studies should examine the influence of residual confounding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Geer
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, State University of New York, Downstate School of Public Health, 450 Clarkson Ave., Box 43, Brooklyn, NY 11203-2098, USA.
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Examining Extreme Weather Effects on Birth Weight From the Individual Effect to Spatiotemporal Aggregation Effects. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL, BIOLOGICAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL STATISTICS 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s13253-012-0102-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Wolf J, Armstrong B. The association of season and temperature with adverse pregnancy outcome in two German states, a time-series analysis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40228. [PMID: 22792247 PMCID: PMC3391296 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Accepted: 06/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A seasonality of low birth weight (LBW) and preterm birth (PTB) has been described for most regions and there is evidence that this pattern is caused by ambient outdoor temperature. However, the association as such, the direction of effect and the critical time of exposure remain controversial. Methods Logistic, time-series regression was performed on nearly 300,000 births from two German states to study the association between season and daily mean temperature and changes in daily proportions of term LBW (tLBW) or PTB. Analyses were adjusted for time-varying factors. Temperature exposures were examined during different periods of pregnancy. Results Weak evidence for an association between season of conception, season of birth or ambient outdoor temperature and tLBW or PTB was found. Results of analyses of temperature were not consistent between the two states. Different sources of bias which would have artificially led to stronger findings were detected and are described. Conclusions No clear evidence for an association between season of conception, season of birth or temperature and tLBW or PTB was found. In the study of pregnancy outcome different sources of bias can be identified which can potentially explain heterogeneous findings of the past.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennyfer Wolf
- Department of Social and Environmental Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
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Seasonal variation in fetal growth: accounting for sociodemographic, biological, and environmental exposures. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2012; 206:74.e1-7. [PMID: 21982022 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2011.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2011] [Revised: 05/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate seasonal variation in fetal growth, accounting for important sociodemographic, biological, and environmental exposures. STUDY DESIGN Records of births 1998 through 2006 in Perth, Western Australia were obtained (N = 147,357). We investigated small for gestational age and sex and the proportion of optimal birthweight (POBW) in relation to seasonal exposures (season, temperature, sunlight) by trimester of pregnancy. Adjustment was made for a wide range of risk factors. RESULTS The POBW for neonates with third trimesters predominantly in summer was 0.18% (0.00-0.36%) lower than for those in winter. POBW decreased by 0.14% (0.01-0.27%) per interquartile range increase in third-trimester temperature (9.15°C). An interquartile range increase in temperature over pregnancy (0.73°C) was associated with an odds ratio of 1.02 (95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.05) for small for gestational age and sex. CONCLUSION Reduced fetal growth was associated with elevated ambient temperatures throughout and late in pregnancy, independently of air pollution and other risk factors.
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Mannan I, Choi Y, Coutinho AJ, Chowdhury AI, Rahman SM, Seraji HR, Bari S, Shah R, Winch PJ, El Arifeen S, Darmstadt GL, Baqui AH. Vulnerability of newborns to environmental factors: findings from community based surveillance data in Bangladesh. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2011; 8:3437-52. [PMID: 21909316 PMCID: PMC3166752 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph8083437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Revised: 08/12/2011] [Accepted: 08/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Infection is the major cause of neonatal deaths. Home born newborns in rural Bangladeshi communities are exposed to environmental factors increasing their vulnerability to a number of disease agents that may compromise their health. The current analysis was conducted to assess the association of very severe disease (VSD) in newborns in rural communities with temperature, rainfall, and humidity. A total of 12,836 newborns from rural Sylhet and Mirzapur communities were assessed by trained community health workers using a sign based algorithm. Records of temperature, humidity, and rainfall were collected from the nearest meteorological stations. Associations between VSD and environmental factors were estimated. Incidence of VSD was found to be associated with higher temperatures (odds ratios: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.08 to 1.21 in Sylhet and 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.07 in Mirzapur) and heat humidity index (odds ratios: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.08 in Sylhet and, 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.04 in Mirzapur). Four months (June–September) in Sylhet, and six months in Mirzapur (April–September) had higher odds ratios of incidence of VSD as compared to the remainder of the year (odds ratios: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.32 to 2.23 in Sylhet and, 1.62, 95% CI: 1.33 to 1.96 in Mirzapur). Prevention of VSD in neonates can be enhanced if these interactions are considered in health intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Mannan
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E8138, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; E-Mails: (Y.C.); (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (P.J.W.); (G.L.D.); (A.H.B.)
- Save the Children, H 1(A) 2, Road 91, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed: E-Mail: ; Tel.: +88-01730327515
| | - Yoonjoung Choi
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E8138, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; E-Mails: (Y.C.); (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (P.J.W.); (G.L.D.); (A.H.B.)
| | - Anastasia J. Coutinho
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E8138, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; E-Mails: (Y.C.); (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (P.J.W.); (G.L.D.); (A.H.B.)
| | - Atique I. Chowdhury
- International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh; E-Mails: (A.I.C.); (S.M.R.); (H.R.S.); (S.B.); (S.E.A.)
| | - Syed Moshfiqur Rahman
- International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh; E-Mails: (A.I.C.); (S.M.R.); (H.R.S.); (S.B.); (S.E.A.)
| | - Habib R. Seraji
- International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh; E-Mails: (A.I.C.); (S.M.R.); (H.R.S.); (S.B.); (S.E.A.)
| | - Sanwarul Bari
- International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh; E-Mails: (A.I.C.); (S.M.R.); (H.R.S.); (S.B.); (S.E.A.)
| | - Rasheduzzaman Shah
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E8138, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; E-Mails: (Y.C.); (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (P.J.W.); (G.L.D.); (A.H.B.)
- International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh; E-Mails: (A.I.C.); (S.M.R.); (H.R.S.); (S.B.); (S.E.A.)
| | - Peter J. Winch
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E8138, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; E-Mails: (Y.C.); (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (P.J.W.); (G.L.D.); (A.H.B.)
| | - Shams El Arifeen
- International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh; E-Mails: (A.I.C.); (S.M.R.); (H.R.S.); (S.B.); (S.E.A.)
| | - Gary L. Darmstadt
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E8138, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; E-Mails: (Y.C.); (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (P.J.W.); (G.L.D.); (A.H.B.)
| | - Abdullah H. Baqui
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E8138, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; E-Mails: (Y.C.); (A.J.C.); (R.S.); (P.J.W.); (G.L.D.); (A.H.B.)
- International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh; E-Mails: (A.I.C.); (S.M.R.); (H.R.S.); (S.B.); (S.E.A.)
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Strand LB, Barnett AG, Tong S. Methodological challenges when estimating the effects of season and seasonal exposures on birth outcomes. BMC Med Res Methodol 2011; 11:49. [PMID: 21501523 PMCID: PMC3102035 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2288-11-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2011] [Accepted: 04/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many previous studies have found seasonal patterns in birth outcomes, but with little agreement about which season poses the highest risk. Some of the heterogeneity between studies may be explained by a previously unknown bias. The bias occurs in retrospective cohorts which include all births occurring within a fixed start and end date, which means shorter pregnancies are missed at the start of the study, and longer pregnancies are missed at the end. Our objective was to show the potential size of this bias and how to avoid it. METHODS To demonstrate the bias we simulated a retrospective birth cohort with no seasonal pattern in gestation and used a range of cohort end dates. As a real example, we used a cohort of 114,063 singleton births in Brisbane between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2009 and examined the bias when estimating changes in gestation length associated with season (using month of conception) and a seasonal exposure (temperature). We used survival analyses with temperature as a time-dependent variable. RESULTS We found strong artificial seasonal patterns in gestation length by month of conception, which depended on the end date of the study. The bias was avoided when the day and month of the start date was just before the day and month of the end date (regardless of year), so that the longer gestations at the start of the study were balanced by the shorter gestations at the end. After removing the fixed cohort bias there was a noticeable change in the effect of temperature on gestation length. The adjusted hazard ratios were flatter at the extremes of temperature but steeper between 15 and 25°C. CONCLUSIONS Studies using retrospective birth cohorts should account for the fixed cohort bias by removing selected births to get unbiased estimates of seasonal health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linn Beate Strand
- School of Public Health and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
| | - Adrian G Barnett
- School of Public Health and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
| | - Shilu Tong
- School of Public Health and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Australia
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Strand LB, Barnett AG, Tong S. The influence of season and ambient temperature on birth outcomes: a review of the epidemiological literature. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2011; 111:451-62. [PMID: 21333980 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2011.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2010] [Revised: 01/17/2011] [Accepted: 01/28/2011] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Seasonal patterns of birth outcomes, such as low birth weight, preterm birth and stillbirth, have been found around the world. As a result, there has been an increasing interest in evaluating short-term exposure to ambient temperature as a determinant of adverse birth outcomes. This paper reviews the epidemiological evidence on seasonality of birth outcomes and the impact of prenatal exposure to ambient temperature on birth outcomes. We identified 20 studies that investigated seasonality of birth outcomes, and reported statistically significant seasonal patterns. Most of the studies found peaks of preterm birth, stillbirth and low birth weight in winter, summer or both, which indicates the extremes of temperature may be an important determinant of poor birth outcomes. We identified 13 studies that investigated the influence of exposure to ambient temperature on birth weight and preterm birth (none examined stillbirth). The evidence for an adverse effect of high temperatures was stronger for birth weight than for preterm birth. More research is needed to clarify whether high temperatures have a causal effect on fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linn B Strand
- School of Public Health and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Rd, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia.
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Carrillo AE, Flouris AD. Caloric restriction and longevity: effects of reduced body temperature. Ageing Res Rev 2011; 10:153-62. [PMID: 20969980 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2010.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2010] [Revised: 09/27/2010] [Accepted: 10/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Caloric restriction (CR) causes a reduction in body temperature (T(b)) which is suggested to contribute to changes that increase lifespan. Moreover, low T(b) has been shown to improve health and longevity independent of CR. In this review we examine the connections between CR, T(b) and mechanisms that influence longevity and ageing. Recent findings regarding the overlapping mechanisms of CR and T(b) that benefit longevity are discussed, including changes in body composition, hormone regulation, and gene expression, as well as reductions in low-level inflammation and reactive oxygen species-induced molecular damage. This information is summarized in a model describing how CR and low T(b), both synergistically and independently, increase lifespan. Moreover, the nascent notion that the rate of ageing may be pre-programmed in response to environmental influences at critical periods of early development is also considered. Based on current evidence, it is concluded that low T(b) plays an integral role in mediating the effects of CR on health and longevity, and that low T(b) may exert independent biological changes that increase lifespan. Our understanding of the overlap between CR- and T(b)-mediated longevity remains incomplete and should be explored in future research.
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Torche F, Corvalan A. Seasonality of Birth Weight in Chile: Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors. Ann Epidemiol 2010; 20:818-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2010.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Rao S, Kanade AN, Yajnik CS, Fall CHD. Seasonality in maternal intake and activity influence offspring's birth size among rural Indian mothers--Pune Maternal Nutrition Study. Int J Epidemiol 2009; 38:1094-103. [PMID: 19498084 PMCID: PMC3408701 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyp223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Farming populations from developing countries are exposed to seasonal energy stress due to variations in food availability and energy output related to agricultural activities. This study aims to examine the impact of seasonality in maternal intake and activity on neonatal size. METHODS Maternal anthropometry, dietary intakes (24-h recall and food-frequency questionnaire) and activity pattern (questionnaire) at 18 +/- 2 and 28 +/- 2 weeks gestation, and neonatal anthropometry, were measured in a prospective study of 797 rural Indian women. RESULTS Maternal energy and protein intakes were inadequate (70% of recommended dietary allowance). Both intake and activity showed seasonal variation (P = 0.001), with peak values in winter i.e. during harvest, at 18 weeks (median energy 1863 kcal/day, protein 47.5 g/day) and 28 weeks (median energy 1687 kcal/day, protein 43.7 g/day), coinciding with the maximum maternal activity (median score 86.1 at 18 weeks and 79.5 at 28 weeks). Mean birth weight and length (adjusted for pre-pregnant weight, parity, gestation and sex) of babies was highest in summer (peak at February 2733 g, 48.6 cm, respectively) and lowest in winter (nadir at January 2591 g, 47.1 cm, respectively). Regression analysis showed that maternal intake at 18th week had a positive association (P = 0.05), maternal activity at 28th week had a negative association (P = 0.002) and exposure (in weeks) to winter during gestation had a positive association (P = 0.04) with birth size. Furthermore, higher maternal intakes, coupled with lower maternal activity in late gestation were associated with higher birth weight, especially during winter. CONCLUSIONS If causal, these observations indicate that complete exposure (16 weeks) to the winter season (harvest-time) in late gestation could increase birth weight by 90 g in poor farming communities in rural India, and the benefit would increase further by lowering maternal activity. Our results underscore the importance of considering seasonality in planning targeted intervention strategies in such settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shobha Rao
- Division of Animal Sciences, Biometry and Nutrition Unit, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, India.
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McGrath JJ, Barnett AG, Eyles DW. The association between birth weight, season of birth and latitude. Ann Hum Biol 2009; 32:547-59. [PMID: 16316912 DOI: 10.1080/03014460500154699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birth weight is known to fluctuate with month of birth and with latitude; however the mechanisms underlying these gradients remain unclear. AIM The study examined within-year fluctuations in birth weight across four regions in Australia. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We obtained the birth weight of singleton births of at least 37 weeks gestation from four regions: (a) southeast Queensland, (b) Sydney and surrounding districts, (c) Victoria, and (d) Tasmania. Seasonal fluctuations were examined after long-term trends had been removed. The amplitude, timing and variability of seasonal fluctuations were examined and compared across regions. RESULTS Each of the four regions had prominent annual periodicity with the peak birth weight occurring in spring. The amplitude of this signal ranged from 1.4 g (Victoria) to 7.7 g (southeast Queensland). There was no significant correlation between the amplitude of these fluctuations and the latitude of four regions. In addition, a second smaller autumn peak was identified. CONCLUSION Environmental factors that have regular within-year variation influence birth weight in Australia. The evidence suggests that at least two distinguishable seasonal processes contribute to the findings. Identifying the factors underlying these seasonal fluctuations could have implications from a public health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J McGrath
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, QLD 4076, Australia.
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Jackson CH, Best NG, Richardson S. Bayesian graphical models for regression on multiple data sets with different variables. Biostatistics 2008; 10:335-51. [PMID: 19039032 PMCID: PMC2648903 DOI: 10.1093/biostatistics/kxn041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Routinely collected administrative data sets, such as national registers, aim to collect information on a limited number of variables for the whole population. In contrast, survey and cohort studies contain more detailed data from a sample of the population. This paper describes Bayesian graphical models for fitting a common regression model to a combination of data sets with different sets of covariates. The methods are applied to a study of low birth weight and air pollution in England and Wales using a combination of register, survey, and small-area aggregate data. We discuss issues such as multiple imputation of confounding variables missing in one data set, survey selection bias, and appropriate propagation of information between model components. From the register data, there appears to be an association between low birth weight and environmental exposure to NO(2), but after adjusting for confounding by ethnicity and maternal smoking by combining the register and survey data under our models, we find there is no significant association. However, NO(2) was associated with a small but significant reduction in birth weight, modeled as a continuous variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Jackson
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, Institute of Public Health, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK.
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Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency has been widely reported in all age groups in recent years. Rickets has never been eradicated in developed countries, and it most commonly affects children from recent immigrant groups. There is much evidence that current vitamin D guidelines for the neonatal period, 5-10 microg (200-400 IU)/day, prevent rickets at the typical calcium intakes in developed countries. The annual incidence of vitamin D-deficiency rickets in developed countries ranges between 2.9 and 7.5 cases per 100,000 children. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in mothers and their neonates is remarkable, and the results of one study suggest that third-trimester 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is associated with fetal bone mineral accrual that may affect prepubertal bone mass accumulation. Beyond infancy, the evidence indicates that 5 microg (200 IU)/day of vitamin D has little effect on vitamin D status as measured by the serum 25(OH)D concentration. Two randomized clinical trials show that higher vitamin D intake improves one-year gain in bone density in adolescent girls. The functions of vitamin D extend beyond bone to include immune system regulation and anti-proliferative effects on cells. Early life vitamin D inadequacy is implicated in the risk of bone disease, autoimmune disease, and certain cancers later in life; however, long-term interventional studies do not exist to validate the widespread implementation of greater vitamin D consumption. Here we review the available data concerning vitamin D status and health effects of vitamin D in pregnancy through to and including adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Kimball
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Parker JD, Woodruff TJ. Influences of study design and location on the relationship between particulate matter air pollution and birthweight. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2008; 22:214-27. [PMID: 18426516 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3016.2008.00931.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A large number of studies have identified a relationship between particulate matter air pollution and birthweight. Although reported associations are small and varied, they have been identified in studies from places around the world. Exposure assignment, covariates and study inclusion criteria vary among studies. To examine the effect of these and other study characteristics on associations between particulate matter and birthweight, US birth records for singletons delivered at 40 weeks gestation in 2001-03 during the months of March, June, September and December were linked to quarterly estimates of pollution exposure, both particulate matter exposure and exposure to multiple pollutants, by county of residence and month of birth. Annual, 9-month and trimester-specific exposures were assigned. Among births linked to particulate matter exposure there was a small association between coarse particle exposure and birthweight (beta -13 g per 10 microg/m(3) increase [95% CI -18.3 g, -7.6 g]) after controlling for maternal factors; this association was attenuated slightly and remained statistically significant after further adjustment for contextual factors, year of birth, region, or urban-rural status. The associations were slightly weaker among births linked to multiple pollutant exposure than among births linked to just particulate matter exposure. The association varied markedly by region, ranging from a decrement of 43 g per 10 microg/m(3)[95% CI -58.6 g, -27.6 g] in the north-west to a null association in the south-west. Trimester findings were smaller, yet remained significant and varied regionally. The association between fine particle exposure and birthweight varied considerably, with an overall small positive association that became null after control for region. This study found that wide regional differences in association may contribute to the varied published findings. The association between coarse particle exposure and birthweight appeared robust, if small; fine particles had no overall association with birthweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Parker
- National Center for Health Statistics, Office of Analysis and Epidemiology, National Center for Health Statistics, Hyattsville, MD 20782, USA.
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Chodick G, Shalev V, Goren I, Inskip PD. Seasonality in Birth Weight in Israel: New Evidence Suggests Several Global Patterns and Different Etiologies. Ann Epidemiol 2007; 17:440-6. [PMID: 17300954 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2006.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2006] [Accepted: 10/12/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of season on birth weight and whether it is expressed also in fluctuations of proportions of extreme birth weights. METHODS Information about 225,545 singletons born during 1998 to 2004 was obtained from a large health maintenance organization in Israel. We conducted a linear regression analysis of the weight with month and year of birth, sex, maternal age, diabetes, and several meteorological factors as independent variables, which were also incorporated into multivariate logistic regression models to examine the effect of season of birth on the frequency of low birth weight (LBW, <2500 g) or macrosomia (>4000 g). RESULTS A significant (P < .001) seasonal pattern in birth weights was observed, with a peak in July and a trough in January. Babies born in summer had an OR of 1.12 (95% CI; 1.07 to 1.18) for macrosomia compared with those born in the winter. No such pattern was found for LBW. CONCLUSIONS While in regions of mid-latitude, summer is associated with relatively lower birth weight, possibly because of exposure to cold temperature during early or mid-pregnancy, our data suggest that in Israel, the peak birth weight is in summer, possibly because of increased exposure to sunlight in the last weeks of the pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Chodick
- Medical Informatics Department, Maccabi Healthcare Services , Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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Chotai J, Murphy DL, Constantino JN. Cerebrospinal fluid monoamine metabolite levels in human newborn infants born in winter differ from those born in summer. Psychiatry Res 2006; 145:189-97. [PMID: 17074397 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2005.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2003] [Revised: 09/25/2005] [Accepted: 11/16/2005] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
An earlier study has shown significant differences in the CSF monoamine metabolite levels in adults born during different seasons of the year. We study here the relationship between season of birth and CSF monoamine metabolite levels in 283 newborn febrile infants without neurological abnormalities, with an age distribution ranging from birth to about 3 months, adjusting for the confounding variables age and time at lumbar puncture, weight at birth, estimated gestational age at birth, gender, race, and medicaid status. Each of the three metabolite levels as well as their ratios HVA/5-HIAA and 5-HIAA/MHPG showed significant month-of-birth variations, but not the ratio HVA/MHPG. For HVA and MHPG levels, the maximum was obtained around the winter birth months November-December, whereas for 5-HIAA level, the maximum was obtained around the summer birth months June-July. The correlations between HVA and 5-HIAA were, in general, significantly positive within the different birth seasons and races. Among summer-born Caucasian infants, MHPG was significantly positively correlated with HVA and with 5-HIAA, whereas among winter-born Black infants, MHPG was significantly positively correlated with HVA. Season of birth is an unspecific environmental factor that may be proxy for several possible seasonally varying environmental circumstances such as the length of photoperiod, temperature, infections, nutrition, stress and lifestyle. Studies relating season of birth to monoaminergic turnover at different stages of life may yield important clues about the gestational and perinatal origins of neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayanti Chotai
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Umeå, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden.
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McGrath JJ, Keeping D, Saha S, Chant DC, Lieberman DE, O'Callaghan MJ. Seasonal fluctuations in birth weight and neonatal limb length; does prenatal vitamin D influence neonatal size and shape? Early Hum Dev 2005; 81:609-18. [PMID: 15972254 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2005.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2004] [Revised: 02/21/2005] [Accepted: 03/23/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birth weight is known to fluctuate with season of birth, however, there is little information about seasonal variation in neonatal anthropometric measures. AIMS The aim of this study was to examine seasonal fluctuations in birth weight and selected anthropometric measures. STUDY DESIGN AND SUBJECTS The birth weight of singletons born after at least 37 weeks gestation was extracted from a perinatal register in south-east Queensland (n=350,171). Mean monthly birth weights for this period were examined. Based on a separate birth cohort, principal component analysis was undertaken on neonatal anthropometric measures (n=1233). Seasonality was assessed by (a) spectral analysis of time series data, (b) monthly and seasonal comparison of outcomes. RESULTS Based on register data, birth weight displayed clear annual periodicity. Birth weight differed significantly when compared by month and season. Infants born in October were the heaviest (3484 g), while May-born infants were the lightest (3459 g; P=0.001). Based on the cohort anthropometric data, three components were identified related to (a) overall size, (b) limb length, and (c) head size and skin-fold thickness. Each of these components displayed significant seasonal variation. In particular, prominent seasonal fluctuations in limb length were identified, with peak limb length associated with winter/spring birth. CONCLUSION Environmental factors that have regular seasonal fluctuation influence both the size and shape of neonates. Animal experiments suggest that prenatal hypovitaminosis D may underlie greater limb length. Because birth weight and limb length are associated with a broad range of important health outcomes, the seasonal exposures underlying these effects warrant further scrutiny from a public health perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J McGrath
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, QLD 4076, Australia.
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Lin CM, Li CY, Yang GY, Mao IF. Association between maternal exposure to elevated ambient sulfur dioxide during pregnancy and term low birth weight. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2004; 96:41-50. [PMID: 15261783 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2004.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2003] [Revised: 03/01/2004] [Accepted: 03/22/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This retrospective cohort study investigated whether the risk of delivering full term (37-44 completed weeks of gestation) low birth weight (LBW) infants is associated with differences in exposure to air pollutants in different trimesters. Full-term infants (37 completed weeks of gestation) with a birth weight below 2500 g were classified as term LBW infants. The study infants comprised 92,288 full-term live singletons identified from the Taiwan birth registry and born in the city of Taipei or Kaoshiung in Taiwan between 1995 and 1997. Maternal exposures to various air pollutants including CO, SO2, O3, NO2, and PM10 in each trimester of pregnancy was estimated as the arithmetic means of all daily measurements taken by the air quality monitoring station nearest to the district of residence of the mother at birth. The multivariable logistic regression model with adjustment for potential confounders was used to assess the independent effect of specific air pollutants on the risk of term LBW. This study suggested a 26% increase in term LBW risk given maternal ambient exposure to SO2 concentration exceeding 11.4 ppb during pregnancy compared to low exposure (<7.1 ppb) (OR=1.26, 95% CI=1.04-1.53). Since the relative risk of term LBW was reassessed according to exposure level in each trimester, mothers exposed to >12.4 ppb of SO2 in the last trimester showed 20% higher risk (OR=1.20, 95% CI=1.01-1.41) of term LBW delivery than mothers with lower exposure (<6.8 ppb). No significant elevation ORs was observed for other air pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Ming Lin
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, Taipei Hsien, Taiwan, ROC
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