Sonographic Cortical Development and Anomalies in the Fetus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The aim of this systematic review is to report the normal cortical development of different fetal cerebral fissures on ultrasound, describe associated anomalies in fetuses with cortical malformations, and evaluate the quality of published charts of cortical fissures. The inclusion criteria were studies reporting development, anomalies, and reference charts of fetal cortical structures on ultrasound. The outcomes observed were the timing of the appearance of different cortical fissures according to different gestational age windows, associated central nervous system (CNS) and extra-CNS anomalies detected at ultrasound in fetuses with cortical malformation, and rate of fetuses with isolated anomaly.

Outcome of fetal congenital pulmonary malformations: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives: To report the outcome of fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of congenital lung malformation (CLM) diagnosed on ultrasound by performing a comprehensive assessment of these outcomes through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Content: CLMs are a heterogeneous group of anomalies that involve the lung parenchyma and its bronchovascular structures. Their presentation and evolution are variable, from entirely asymptomatic lesions with sonographic regression to hydropic fetuses requiring fetal therapy, intrauterine death or neonatal morbidity.

Screening for Low-Tract Genital Infections in Women with Threatened Preterm Labor: Which Role?

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible relationship between cultural specimens and preterm birth in women admitted for threatened preterm labor. Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal mortality and antenatal hospitalization; several risk factors including intrauterine infections have been identified, but its real causes remain poorly understood.

Design: This is a retrospective, multicenter, cohort study including 250 women admitted for threatened preterm labor.

BRCA mutation carriers' perceptions on postmenopausal hormone therapy: An Italian study.

Objective: To evaluate the actual perceptions of postmenopausal hormone therapy (HT) in BRCA mutation carriers (BRCAmc) in comparison with women from the general population.

Methods: Questionnaire-based study of 83 BRCAmc and a control group of 89 women without a genetic mutation. Perceptions were evaluated by specific questions and Likert scales (-5-+5).