Comparative Molecular Dynamics Simulation Studies of Realistic Eukaryotic, Prokaryotic, and Archaeal Membranes.

We present a comparative all-atom molecular dynamics simulation study of 18 biomembrane systems with lipid compositions corresponding to eukaryotic, bacterial, and archaebacterial membranes together with three single-component lipid bilayers. A total of 105 lipid types used in this study include diverse sterols and glycerol-based lipids with acyl chains of various lengths, unsaturation degrees, and branched or cyclic moieties. Our comparative analysis provides deeper insight into the influences of sterols and lipid unsaturation on the structural and mechanical properties of these biomembranes, including water permeation into the membrane hydrocarbon core.

Glycemic Control and Aspirin Resistance in Patients Taking Low-Dose Aspirin for Pre-eclampsia Prevention.

Objectives: To assess the association between aspirin and glycemic control in diabetic, pregnant patients, and the risk for aspirin resistance in those with poor glycemic control across gestation taking low-dose aspirin (LDA) for pre-eclampsia (PEC) prevention.

Study Design: We performed a secondary analysis of samples collected during the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units trial of LDA for PEC prevention. A subset of insulin-controlled diabetic patient samples on placebo or 60 mg aspirin daily were evaluated.

Decline in Sars-CoV-2 antibodies over 6-month follow-up in obstetrical healthcare workers.

Problem: Limited data exists on the temporal trend of the Sars-CoV-2 immunologic response and duration of protection following natural infection. We sought to investigate the presence and duration of Sars-CoV-2 serum antibodies in obstetrical healthcare workers (HCW) on serial assessments over a 6-month period, and to assess rates of vaccine acceptance and reported vaccine side effects among this cohort.

Method Of Study: A prospective cohort study of a convenience sample of obstetrical HCWs at a tertiary hospital.

Addition of vaginal isosorbide mononitrate for labor induction in pregnancies complicated by hypertensive diseases of pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial.

Background: Pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disease of pregnancy often require labor induction. Rates of cesarean delivery range from 15% to 60% in this population. Nitric oxide deficiency has been shown to underlay the pathophysiology of preeclampsia, and nitric oxide promotes cervical ripening.

Contractions: Traditional concepts and their role in modern obstetrics.

Contractions are produced through a complex interplay of hormonal, mechanical, and electrical factors. In labor, contractions are measured using the Montevideo unit. Clinical considerations in labor wherein contraction assessment becomes paramount include the care of women whose labor is complicated by abnormal progress or tachysystole.

Intrauterine Pressure Catheter Use Is Associated with an Increased Risk of Postcesarean Surgical Site Infections.

Objective: This study aimed to determine if intrapartum placement of an intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC) is associated with an increased rate of surgical site infections in women undergoing a cesarean delivery.

Study Design: This was a secondary analysis of the prospective observational Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Registry. We compared patients with and without IUPC use.

Meconium-stained amniotic fluid and the risk of postcesarean surgical site infection.

Objective: To investigate the association between meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) and postcesarean surgical site infections.

Methods: This was a secondary analysis of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network (MFMU) Cesarean Registry. Women with a singleton pregnancy attempting labor or induction of labor, who ultimately had a cesarean delivery, were included in the study.