MicroRNA Dysregulation in Early Breast Cancer Diagnosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Breast cancer continues to be the leading cause of death in women worldwide. Mammography, which is the current gold standard technique used to diagnose it, presents strong limitations in early ages where breast cancer is much more aggressive and fatal. MiRNAs present in numerous body fluids might represent a new line of research in breast cancer biomarkers, especially oncomiRNAs, known to play an important role in the suppression and development of neoplasms. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate dysregulated miRNA biomarkers and their diagnostic accuracy in breast cancer. Two independent researchers reviewed the included studies according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A protocol for this review was registered in PROSPERO with the registration number "CRD42021256338". Observational case-control-based studies analyzing concentrations of microRNAs which have been published within the last 10 years were selected, and the concentrations of miRNAs in women with breast cancer and healthy controls were analyzed. Random-effects meta-analyses of miR-155 were performed on the studies which provided enough data to calculate diagnostic odds ratios. We determined that 34 microRNAs were substantially dysregulated and could be considered biomarkers of breast cancer. Individually, miR-155 provided better diagnostic results than mammography on average. However, when several miRNAs are used to screen, forming a panel, sensitivity and specificity rates improve, and they can be associated with classic biomarkers such us CA-125 or CEA. Based on the results of our meta-analysis, miR-155 might be a promising diagnostic biomarker for this patient population.

Quality of Life in the Postpartum Recovery of Women Who Practice Hypopressive Exercise: Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Practicing physical exercise is a way of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and it has been demonstrated to provide benefits and improve quality of life after labour. Aim: The objective of this study is to determine if performing a moderate hypopressive exercise program after childbirth improves the HRQoL of women. Materials and Methods: A 12-week randomized clinical trial was carried out. The women in the exercise group followed a training program based on the hypopressive method, which comprises postural and respiratory exercises of moderate intensity. We used the SF-36v2 questionnaire to assess the Health-Related Quality of Life in women. Results: We found statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in general health components, vitality, emotional role, and mental health in the sample group of exercise group of women, who obtained a higher score. We found statistically significant differences in all aspects between the groups. The interaction between time and group affect in general health components, vitality, emotional role and the score of mental components. In all of them, the score was higher at the end of the programme and in the exercise group. Conclusions: The training program with hypopressive physical exercise improves the quality of life after childbirth. According to the guidelines recommended by the ACOG, the hypopressive method is valid for the improvement of HRQoL in women who perform this method at 16 weeks of delivery. Further studies are recommended to start such exercises one week after delivery in postpartum women.

Physical Exercise to Improve Functional Capacity: Randomized Clinical Trial in Bariatric Surgery Population.

Background: Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective method to lose weight over time. However, some patients fail to achieve healthy weight losses. We aimed to determine if a moderate-intensity physical exercise intervention in patients who underwent bariatric surgery increases their functional capacity thus improving bariatric surgery results. Methods: We conducted a parallel-group non-blinded randomized controlled trial at a surgery clinic in Talca, Chile. A total of 43 participants with obesity and scheduled bariatric surgery completed the six months follow-up. A physical exercise program was conducted in exercise group participants one month after bariatric surgery. Walked distance in the six-minute walk test, BMI, Borg scale of perceptive exertion results and cardiovascular variables were evaluated. Results: Patients' weight significantly decreased after bariatric surgery but there was no difference between the groups of study. The exercise group progressed from a base value of 550 ± 75 m walked in the six-minute walk test to a sixth-month value of 649.6 ± 68.5 m (p < 0.05), whilst the control group yielded base values of 554.4 ± 35.1 and a sixth-month walked distance of 591.1 ± 75.34 (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Physical exercise in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery increased functional capacity independently of weight losses resulting from bariatric surgery.

Educational Intervention in the Postural Hygiene of School-Age Children.

INTRODUCTION: Healthy lifestyle habits formed in childhood provide the foundation for a healthy adult life; therefore, it is important to encourage healthy habits and to correct poor habits from an early age. AIM: In this study, we aim to evaluate the influence of educational intervention in order to modify postural hygiene habits in school-age children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We randomly selected three public primary education schools in the Galician provinces of Orense and Pontevedra based on stratified multistage sampling. A sample of 479 students was obtained, representing 2% of all 6- to 12-year-old children registered during the 2015/2016 academic year in those provinces. RESULTS: Following the intervention, the students' postural hygiene improved. We found statistically significant differences regarding a reduction in the number of hours spent watching television (0.531 h/day); the way school books and supplies were carried, with an increase in the use of backpacks with wheels (from 58.5% to 64.1%); and an improvement in postural hygiene when watching television, with an increase from 63.7% to 80.8% of those surveyed opting to watch television whilst seated on a chair instead of lying down. CONCLUSIONS: Educational intervention by inculcating healthy postural hygiene habits in children at an early age can improve and correct unhealthy behaviours.

Influence of an Educational Intervention on Eating Habits in School-Aged Children.

A health promotion intervention directed at preventing unhealthy habits in relation to physical exercise, hygiene habits, diet and personal relationships can lead to a decrease in diseases during adulthood and obtaining a better quality of life. The intervention had a participative and multidisciplinary nature, and it was developed by health professionals, teachers and parents for school children. It promoted healthy lifestyle habits around food by working on four areas through video lessons, interactive talks, practical and theoretical−practical classes and an individual project on behalf of the student where they had to design healthy menus. We randomly selected, by stratified multistage sampling, three public primary education schools. A sample of 479 students registered during the 2014/2015 academic year aged between 6−12 years were included in the study. After the educational intervention, we found a significant reduction in the BMI of the students (p < 0.001). For breakfast, the overweight or obese children modified their usual food consumption after the intervention for a healthier breakfast based on fruit juice and bread instead of sugary snacks (p < 0.001). Regarding eating habits during the mid-morning break, there was a decrease in the consumption of sugary snacks (p < 0.001) and an increase in the consumption of fruits and sandwiches. We found that, after the intervention, the excessive consumption of pasta for the main meal reduced in favor of an increase in the consumption of proteins and different beans and pulses (p > 0.001). Educational interventions on healthy lifestyle habits carried out in children during their early years improve and correct unhealthy habits.

Variación del perfil lipídico durante el embarazo y su relación con las enfermedades metabólicas / Changes in lipid profile during pregnancy and their association with metabolic disorders

Introducción: En el embarazo se producen numerosos cambios fisiológicos en las gestantes los cuales pueden llegar a desencadenar potenciales complicaciones y enfermedades cardiovasculares o metabólicas tales como hipertensión gestacional, hiperlipidemia y diabetes mellitus gestacional.Objetivo: Realizar una revisión sistemática de la literatura con objeto de evaluar la relación entre las variaciones del perfil lipídico durante el embarazo y el riesgo de padecer enfermedades metabólicas y cardiovasculares.Métodos: Se ha llevado a cabo una revisión sistemática siguiendo las directrices del modelo PRISMA en la que se incluyeron 22 artículos. Los descriptores empleados incluyeron marcadores del perfil lipídico (HDL, LDL, TG y CT) y las principales patologías metabólicas y cardiovasculares. El idioma se restringió a español e inglés. La revisión fue llevada a cabo durante el año 2019.Resultados: Niveles elevados de colesterol total, LDL y triglicéridos durante el embarazo se asocian con un mayor riesgo de padecer preeclampsia y diabetes mellitus gestacional. Un mayor índice de masa corporal pre gestacional y una mayor ganancia ponderal se relacionan con mayor tasa hiperlipidemia lo cual conlleva a su vez alteraciones vasculares.Conclusiones: Se hace patente la necesidad de reforzar el control preventivo del peso materno trimestral y del perfil lipídico durante la gestación con objeto de prevenir complicaciones del embarazo. Son necesarios estudios centrados en determinados resultados adversos perinatales tales como la macrosomía del recién nacido.(AU)

Background: Various changes occur during pregnancy that, when exacerbated, could progress to metabolic and cardiovascular disorders such as gestational hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and gestational diabetes mellitus.Objective: To conduct a systematic review of the literature that evaluates the association between changes in lipid profile during pregnancy and the risk of developing metabolic and cardiovascular disorders.Methods: We conducted a PRISMA systematic review of scientific databases. A total of 22 articles were finally included. Used search terms consisted of lipid profile biomarkers (HDL, LDL, triglycerides, total cholesterol) in combination with the most important metabolic and cardiovascular disorders. Language was restricted to Spanish and English. The review was conducted during 2019.Results: High levels of total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides during pregnancy were found to be associated with increased risk of developing preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus. Higher pre-gestational BMI and elevated gestational weight gain were associated with increase rates of hyperlipidemia which is closely related to vascular pathologies.Conclusions: Fostering routine control of maternal weight during all trimesters of gestation and monitoring the lipid profile throughout pregnancy is necessary to prevent pregnancy adverse outcomes. New studies focused on specific perinatal outcomes such as neonatal macrosomia are required.(AU)

Effects of physical activity on quality of life in overweight and obese children / Efectos de la actividad física sobre la calidad de vida en niños con sobrepeso y obesidad

Background: in recent years the prevalence of obesity in infants, children, and adolescents has increased alarmingly, which may affect their health, educational level, and quality of life. Objectives: the aim of this study was to determine whether a program with physical activity and nutritional recommendations may improve health-related quality of life (HRQL) in overweight and obese children. Material and methods: the design of this study was that of a randomized clinical trial (RCT). The sample consisted of 54 children with a median age of 10.65 years, all of them overweight or obese. They were divided into a study (SG) and a control (CG) group, with 27 children each. The study group received physical activity and nutritional advice, while the control group only received theoretical-practical sessions on nutrition during 9 months. Families participated in the workshops on nutritional recommendations in both groups. Results: there was a significant difference in fat percentage before and after the intervention in the study group compared to the children who did not engage in sports activity. In the SF-10 quality-of-life perception questionnaire, statistically significant differences in both the physical and mental components may be seen at the end of the study between both groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: an educational intervention with physical activity based on play and nutritional advice improved quality of life in overweight and obese children. Family involvement is vital for children to improve their life habits, and achieve favorable results in the reduction of overweight and obesity. (AU)

Introducción: en los últimos años, la prevalencia de la obesidad en los bebés, niños y adolescentes ha aumentado de forma alarmante, lo que podría afectar a su salud, nivel educativo y calidad de vida. Objetivos: el objetivo de este estudio fue determinar si un programa con actividad física y recomendaciones nutricionales puede mejorar la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) en niños con sobrepeso y obesidad. Material y métodos: el diseño de este estudio fue el de un ensayo clínico aleatorizado (ECA). La muestra consistió en 54 niños de 10,65 años de edad mediana con sobrepeso u obesidad. Se dividieron en grupos de estudio (SG) y de control (CG), ambos con 27 niños. El grupo de estudio recibió actividad física y asesoramiento nutricional mientras que el grupo de control solo recibió las sesiones de nutrición teórico-prácticas durante 9 meses. Las familias participaron en los talleres sobre recomendaciones nutricionales en ambos grupos. Resultados: hubo una diferencia significativa en el porcentaje de grasa antes y después de la intervención en el grupo de estudio en comparación con los niños que no participaron en la actividad deportiva. En el cuestionario de calidad de vida SF-10 se puede observar que existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en los componentes físicos y mentales al final del estudio entre ambos grupos (p < 0,001). Conclusiones: una intervención educativa con actividad física basada en el juego y asesoramiento nutricional mejoró la calidad de vida de estos niños obesos y con sobrepeso. La participación familiar es vital para que los niños mejoren sus hábitos de vida y logren resultados favorables en la reducción del sobrepeso y la obesidad. (AU)

Effects of physical activity on quality of life in overweight and obese children.

INTRODUCTION: Background: in recent years the prevalence of obesity in infants, children, and adolescents has increased alarmingly, which may affect their health, educational level, and quality of life. Objectives: the aim of this study was to determine whether a program with physical activity and nutritional recommendations may improve health-related quality of life (HRQL) in overweight and obese children. Material and methods: the design of this study was that of a randomized clinical trial (RCT). The sample consisted of 54 children with a median age of 10.65 years, all of them overweight or obese. They were divided into a study (SG) and a control (CG) group, with 27 children each. The study group received physical activity and nutritional advice, while the control group only received theoretical-practical sessions on nutrition during 9 months. Families participated in the workshops on nutritional recommendations in both groups. Results: there was a significant difference in fat percentage before and after the intervention in the study group compared to the children who did not engage in sports activity. In the SF-10 quality-of-life perception questionnaire, statistically significant differences in both the physical and mental components may be seen at the end of the study between both groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: an educational intervention with physical activity based on play and nutritional advice improved quality of life in overweight and obese children. Family involvement is vital for children to improve their life habits, and achieve favorable results in the reduction of overweight and obesity.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: en los últimos años, la prevalencia de la obesidad en los bebés, niños y adolescentes ha aumentado de forma alarmante, lo que podría afectar a su salud, nivel educativo y calidad de vida. Objetivos: el objetivo de este estudio fue determinar si un programa con actividad física y recomendaciones nutricionales puede mejorar la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) en niños con sobrepeso y obesidad. Material y métodos: el diseño de este estudio fue el de un ensayo clínico aleatorizado (ECA). La muestra consistió en 54 niños de 10,65 años de edad mediana con sobrepeso u obesidad. Se dividieron en grupos de estudio (SG) y de control (CG), ambos con 27 niños. El grupo de estudio recibió actividad física y asesoramiento nutricional mientras que el grupo de control solo recibió las sesiones de nutrición teórico-prácticas durante 9 meses. Las familias participaron en los talleres sobre recomendaciones nutricionales en ambos grupos. Resultados: hubo una diferencia significativa en el porcentaje de grasa antes y después de la intervención en el grupo de estudio en comparación con los niños que no participaron en la actividad deportiva. En el cuestionario de calidad de vida SF-10 se puede observar que existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en los componentes físicos y mentales al final del estudio entre ambos grupos (p < 0,001). Conclusiones: una intervención educativa con actividad física basada en el juego y asesoramiento nutricional mejoró la calidad de vida de estos niños obesos y con sobrepeso. La participación familiar es vital para que los niños mejoren sus hábitos de vida y logren resultados favorables en la reducción del sobrepeso y la obesidad.

Reporting of Perinatal Outcomes in Probiotic Randomized Controlled Trials. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The use of probiotic microorganisms in clinical practice has increased in recent years and a significant number of pregnant women are regular consumers of these products. However, probiotics might modulate the immune system, and whether or not this modulation is beneficial for perinatal outcomes is unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the reporting of perinatal outcomes in randomized controlled trials including women supplemented with probiotic microorganisms during pregnancy. We also analyzed the effects that the administration of probiotic microorganisms exerts on perinatal outcomes. In the review, 46 papers were included and 25 were meta-analyzed. Reporting of perinatal outcomes was highly inconsistent across the studies. Only birth weight, cesarean section, and weeks of gestation were reported in more than 50% of the studies. Random effects meta-analysis results showed that the administration of probiotic microorganisms during pregnancy did not have any a positive or negative impact on the perinatal outcomes evaluated. Subgroup analysis results at the strain level were not significantly different from main analysis results. The administration of probiotic microorganisms does not appear to influence perinatal outcomes. Nonetheless, future probiotic studies conducted in pregnant women should report probiotic strains and perinatal outcomes in order to shed light upon probiotics' effects on pregnancy outcomes.

Alteraciones y efectos del sueño durante el embarazo / Sleep disorders during pregnancy

INTRODUCCIÓN: El embarazo es un proceso fisiológico que produce alteraciones en los patrones del sueño. A nivel fisiológico la falta de sueño se relaciona con problemas de salud tales como hipertensión, enfermedad coronaria, diabetes y depresión. En el embarazo, las alteraciones del sueño son más frecuentes siendo su prevalencia mayor durante el tercer trimestre. La deprivación del mismo durante el embarazo empeora significantemente las condiciones preexistentes de la mujer disminuyendo la actividad física diaria, la productividad y aumentando los síntomas relacionados con el estrés. Las alteraciones del sueño en el embarazo se pueden relacionar con comorbilidad en el recién nacido y resultados adversos materno-fetales. OBJETIVOS: Determinar qué alteraciones del sueño ocurren durante el embarazo, cuáles son sus causas y qué posibles consecuencias podría tener el déficit de sueño durante la gestación a nivel materno-fetal y neonatal. METODOLOGÍA: Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática siguiendo los principios de la declaración PRISMA. Se recogieron tanto estudios observacionales como de intervención así como revisiones sistemáticas y meta-análisis y se llevó a cabo un análisis crítico de los resultados. RESULTADOS Y DISCUSIÓN: Se incluyeron finalmente un total de 19 artículos que trataban sobre los efectos de las alteraciones del sueño en los resultados materno-fetales y neonatales y sus causas. Las principales causas de las alteraciones del sueño son los cambios hormonales y fisiológicos propios del embarazo como es el aumento de peso que se hacen más prevalentes conforme progresa la gestación. Las consecuencias maternas engloban principalmente trastornos respiratorios, alteraciones cardiovasculares e inflamatorias y resultados adversos del embarazo como es la cesárea. Los resultados adversos en el recién nacido más estudiados son partos prematuros y recién nacidos con bajo peso para la edad gestacional. CONCLUSIÓN: Con este trabajo se observa que existe una relación entre los trastornos del sueño durante el embarazo y los problemas materno-fetales. Sin embargo, los estudios llevados a cabo hasta la fecha son heterogéneos, emplean herramientas subjetivas y sus conclusiones resultan en ocasiones contradictorias

INTRODUCTION: Pregnancy is a physiologic stage of the women that modifies sleep patterns. Sleep deprivation is associated with pathologies namely hypertensive disorders, coronary artery disease, diabetes and depression. Amongst pregnant women sleep disorders are more frequent being its prevalence higher during the third trimester of gestation. Furthermore, sleep deprivation worsens previous conditions such as low degree of physical activity, productivity and increases stress-related symptoms. Sleep disorders could be associated with comorbidities in the newborn as well as pregnancy/perinatal adverse outcomes. OBJECTIVES: To determine which sleep disorders are associated with pregnancy, their causes and the potential effects that sleep deprivation could exert on pregnancy outcomes and the newborn. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA statement. Observational, interventional and systematic reviews/meta-analyses were included and a critical analysis of the results was performed. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: 19 papers about sleep disorders and pregnancy/perinatal outcomes were finally included. Mains causes of sleep disorders during pregnancy consisted of hormonal changes and weight gain which are more prevalent as gestation progresses. Maternal outcomes associated to sleep disorders comprised respiratory, cardiovascular and inflammatory disorders along with pregnancy adverse outcomes namely caesarean section. Main perinatal adverse outcomes were preterm delivery and small for gestational age. CONCLUSION: We observed an association between sleep disorders during gestation, pregnancy and perinatal adverse outcomes. However, studies conducted to date are heterogeneous and they tend to use subjective tools to assess sleep patterns being results occasionally inconclusive or contradictory

Childhood Obesity and its Influence on Sleep Disorders: Kids-Play Study.

Background: Sleep disorders are associated with overweight and obese children, and could decrease life quality with limitations to normal daily activities. The purpose of the study is to describe the prevalence of sleep disorders in a cohort of overweight/obese children using respiratory polygraphy. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Granada (Spain) on a sample of 98 children with overweight or obesity. The presence of sleep disorders was determined by respiratory polygraphy. Results: Regarding apnoea-hypopnea-index (AHI) results, 44% of affected children had severe sleep apnoea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS), and the remaining 56% had a mild form of the disorder. With respect to oxygen-desaturation index, 56% of the same group had severe SAHS, 32% had mild SAHS, and the remaining 12% did not suffer from SAHS. Among participants, average scores of 13.8 obstructive apnoea, 7.7 central apnoea, and 13.6 hypopnoea were recorded. Conclusions: Respiratory polygraphy can provide conclusive results in the diagnosis of SAHS in overweight/obese children. Interventional programmes designed and implemented to reduce overweight and obesity can improve quality of sleep and life in children.

Associations of Vitamin D Deficiency, Parathyroid hormone, Calcium, and Phosphorus with Perinatal Adverse Outcomes. A Prospective Cohort Study.

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy has been linked to perinatal adverse outcomes. Studies conducted to date have recommended assessing interactions with other vitamin D-related metabolites to clarify this subject. We aimed to evaluate the association of vitamin D deficiency during early pregnancy with preterm birth. Secondary outcomes included low birth weight and small for gestational age. Additionally, we explored the role that parathyroid hormone, calcium and phosphorus could play in the associations. We conducted a prospective cohort study comprising 289 pregnant women in a hospital in Granada, Spain. Participants were followed-up from weeks 10-12 of gestation to postpartum. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, calcium, and phosphorus were measured within the first week after recruitment. Pearson's χ2 test, Mann-Whitney U test, binary and multivariable logistic regression models were used to explore associations between variables and outcomes. 36.3% of the participants were vitamin D deficient (<20 ng/mL). 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration was inversely correlated with parathyroid hormone (ρ = -0.146, p = 0.013). Preterm birth was associated with vitamin D deficiency in the multivariable model, being this association stronger amongst women with parathyroid hormone serum levels above the 80th percentile (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 6.587, 95% CI (2.049, 21.176), p = 0.002). Calcium and phosphorus were not associated with any studied outcome. Combined measurement of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone could be a better estimator of preterm birth than vitamin D in isolation.

Efecto de los probióticos como tratamiento alternativo para la mastitis humana / Effect of probiotics as an alternative treatment for human mastitis

El objetivo de este estudio es determinar el efecto del uso de los probióticos en relación a la mastitis, así como conocer la dosis adecuada de los probióticos y la semana ideal de gestación para que surja el efecto deseado. Para ello se ha realizado una revisión sistemática, con una cadena de búsqueda y unos filtros de acuerdo a cada una de las distintas bases. También, se realizó una búsqueda inversa a raíz de los resultados obtenidos. Se han aplicado criterios de inclusión y exclusión en la selección de los artículos. En cuanto a los resultados y según la evidencia actual se puede decir que el uso de probióticos como tratamiento alternativo a la mastitis humana podría resultar eficaz ya que existe diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la reducción de la carga bacteriana. En lo referente a la dosis y semana ideal de gestación para la administración de probióticos, se ha podido comprobar distintas dosis y semanas que han surtido efecto; pero sin poder concretar cuáles son las más efectivas e ideales

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of the use of probiotics in relation to mastitis, as well as to know the adequate dose of probiotic and the ideal week of gestation so that the desired effect appears. For this, a systematic review has been carried out, with a search string and filters according to each of the different bases. Also, an inverse search was performed to the root of the results obtained. Inclusion and exclusion criteria have been applied in the selection of articles. Regarding the results and according to current evidence, it can be said that the use of probiotics as an alternative treatment to human mastitis could be effective since there is a statistically significant difference in the reduction of bacterial load. Regarding the dose and the ideal week of gestation for the administration of probiotics, different doses and weeks have been determined that have taken effect; but without being able to specify problems they are the most effective and ideal

Water Exercise and Quality of Life in Pregnancy: A Randomised Clinical Trial.

Background: Physical exercise helps to maintain a healthy lifestyle and its practice is recommended for women during pregnancy as a means of limiting the negative effects on the body that may take place and to optimise well-being, mood and sleep patterns, as well as encouraging daily physical activity, enhancing the ability to work and preventing pregnancy-related complications. Aim: To analyse the quality of life in pregnancy for women who complete a programme of moderate physical activity in water, following a designed method that the woman can perform physical exercise safely during pregnancy called the SWEP (study of water exercise during pregnancy) method. Materialsand methods: A randomised clinical trial was performed. One hundred and twenty-nine pregnant women were randomly assigned either to an exercise class following the SWEP method (EG, n = 65) or to a control group (CG, n = 64). The trial began in week 20 of pregnancy (May 2016) and ended in week 37 (October 2016). Heath-related quality of life (HRQoL) was evaluated with the SF36v2 health questionnaire at weeks 12 and 35 of pregnancy. Results: The HRQoL score decreased significantly between weeks 12 and 35 of gestation, except for the mental health component, which in the CG fell by -3.28 points and in the EG increased slightly (p > 0.05). Among the CG, the score for the mental health component at week 35 was ≤42, indicating a positive screening risk of depression (39.20 ± 4.16). Conclusions: Physical activity programmes in water, such as SWEP, enhance the HRQoL of pregnant women.

Influence of a Water-Based Exercise Program in the Rate of Spontaneous Birth: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Introduction: Many women change their lifestyles and habits when they become pregnant, to avoid potentially harmful effects to themselves and their babies. This is especially so with respect to physical exercise, which is often greatly reduced due to ignorance of the benefits it provides during pregnancy. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of spontaneous birth among women who participated in a water-based physical exercise program. Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted with a sample of 129 pregnant women (Control Group, CG = 64; Exercise Group, EG = 65). A physical exercise protocol, specifically designed for pregnant women, was created and applied. Those in the EG performed 60 min exercise sessions, three times per week for 17 weeks. The participants in the CG received routine check-ups and advice throughout their pregnancy. Findings: The women in the EG presented better results for the onset of spontaneous birth (OR = 2.060 (0.980-4.332)) and for neonate Apgar score of 10 at five minutes (OR = 8.53 (3.60-20.17)). Those who had normal weight at the start of pregnancy achieved better results for spontaneous delivery (OR = 2.099 (1.017-4.335)) than those with overweight/obesity. The rate of caesarean delivery was higher in the women with overweight/obesity (OR = 3.570 ((1.226-10.397)) than in those with normal weight. Conclusions: In our study, the women who followed the water-based exercise program gained less weight during pregnancy, which facilitated a better rate of spontaneous, non-instrumental childbirth, together with a better Apgar test score at five minutes.

Play as a Method to Reduce Overweight and Obesity in Children: An RCT.

BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity are the result of a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors, which begins prenatally. AIM: To analyse an intervention based on play as a means of improving the body composition of children who are overweight or obese. METHODS: The Kids-Play study is a randomized clinical trial (RCT) consisting of 49 children aged 8-12 years on a nine-month intervention programme based on physical activity, play and nutritional advice. Controls had another 49 children, who received only nutritional advice. RESULTS: The play-based intervention achieved a moderate-vigorous level of physical activity in the study group of 81.18 min per day, while the corresponding level for the control group was only 37.34 min. At the start of the intervention, the children in the study group had an average body fat content of 41.66%, a level that decreased to 38.85% by the end of the programme. Among the control group, body fat increased from 38.83% to 41.4% during the same period. CONCLUSIONS: The intervention programme considered, based on both play and nutritional recommendations, produced a decrease in body fat among children aged 8-12 years. However, the control group, which received only nutritional recommendations, experienced an increase in body weight.

Influence of Physical Activity on Blood Pressure in Children With Overweight/Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of childhood hypertension (HT) is growing exponentially, influenced by environmental factors such as foods with high salt content, sedentary lifestyles, and poor-quality food. The incidence of HT is about 10.4% in well-nourished children, but when associated with obesity or overweight, this can rise to 38% and 68%, respectively. To assess the influence of physical activity on the blood pressure (BP) of children who are overweight or obese. METHODS: This randomized clinical trial was carried out in Granada (Spain), from October 2015 to June 2016. The sample consisted of 98 children, all of whom were overweight or obese. The intervention group (IG) (n = 49) practised physical activity and received nutritional advice, while the control group (n = 49) only received theoretical-practical sessions on nutrition. Body composition was measured, a nutritional assessment was made and BP was determined (in percentiles, to avoid the misclassification of children who are located at the extremes of normal growth). RESULTS: Before the physical activity intervention, 85.7% of the children in the IG (with overweight/obesity) were in the 95th or higher percentile for BP, a situation representative of high BP (HT). However, by the end of the study period, this value had decreased significantly (P = 0.001), to 16.13%. CONCLUSIONS: Childhood obesity is a risk factor for HT. Physical activity, together with nutritional advice, effectively reduces BP in children who are overweight or obese. The use of percentiles, according to age, weight, and height, is an effective means of measuring BP. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION: This study is registered at https://www.clinicaltrials.gov (identifier NCT02779647).

A Comparison of Changes in the Fatty Acid Profile of Human Milk of Spanish Lactating Women during the First Month of Lactation Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. A Comparison with Infant Formulas.

Breastfeeding is the ideal way to provide infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. Milk composition changes throughout lactation, and fat is one of the most variable nutrients in human milk. The aim of this study was to determine the main differences between the fatty acid (FA) profile of human milk samples (colostrum, transitional, and mature milk group) and infant formulas. Human milk samples were provided by lactating women from Granada. Moreover, different commercial infant formulas were analyzed. FAs were determined using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. According to the results, oleic acid was the predominant monounsaturated fatty acid (41.93% in human milk and 43.53% in infant formulas), while palmitic acid was the most representative saturated fatty acid (20.88% in human milk and 23.09% in infant formulas). Significant differences were found between human milk groups and infant formulas, mainly in long-chain polyunsaturated FAs (LC-PUFAs). The content of araquidonic acid (AA) and docoxahexaenoic acid (DHA) was higher in human milk (0.51% and 0.39%, respectively) than in infant formulas (0.31% and 0.22%, respectively). Linoleic acid (LA) percentage (15.31%) in infant formulas was similar to that found in human milk (14.6%). However, α-linolenic acid (ALA) values were also much higher in infant formulas than in human milk (1.64% and 0.42%, respectively).

Assessment of the Technique of Breastfeeding in Babies with Down Syndrome / Valoración de la técnica de amamantamiento en bebés con síndrome de Down / Avaliação da técnica de amamentação em bebês com síndrome de Down

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the technique and duration of breastfeeding in healthy children and children with Down Syndrome (DS) using the breastfeeding observation form. Materials and methods: An observational study of a prospective cohort was carried out at the Clinical Hospital of Granada during 2015. The Study Group consisted of 40 children with DS and the control group was formed by each new-born with DS and a healthy new-born with the same characteristics of weight and gestational age was selected. The new-borns evaluated shared housing with the mother where the technique was valued during the first 5 days postpartum by a health professional. A bivariable analysis was performed to compare the groups using Student's T test for numerical variables and chi-square for categorical variables. Results: Lactogenesis onset was earlier in the DS group (92.5 % in the first 24 hours vs 20 %; p <0.001). It was observed that 60 % of the healthy children were breastfed for more than three months while in the group of babies with DS this time period was 47.5 %. Conclusions: The results of this study reveal that the breastfeeding technique presented at the beginning more difficulties in mothers of children with DS and it has been shown that technical errors influence the onset and duration of breastfeeding in mothers of these children.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la técnica y la duración de la lactancia materna (LM) en niños sanos y en niños con síndrome de Down (SD), a través del Formulario de observación del amamantamiento. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional de cohorte prospectivo en el Hospital Clínico de Granada, a finales de 2015. El grupo de estudio estuvo constituido por cuarenta pacientes con SD, y el grupo control se conformó por niños recién nacidos con dicha alteración y, en la misma cantidad, por niños sanos, con las mismas características de peso y edad gestacional. Los recién nacidos evaluados estuvieron en una habitación conjunta con la madre, donde el personal sanitario valoró la técnica durante los primeros cinco días posparto. Se realizó un análisis bivariante para comparar los grupos, utilizando el test t de Student para las variables numéricas, y el chi-cuadrado, para las categóricas. Resultados: la lactogénesis se produjo primero en el grupo sin SD (92,5 % en las primeras 24 horas vs 20 %; p<0,001). Se observó que el 60 % de los niños sanos mantuvieron la LM por más de tres meses, mientras que el grupo de bebés con SD logró en este tiempo el 47,5%. Conclusiones: la LM presentó, al inicio, más dificultades en las madres de niños con SD. Los errores técnicos influyen en el inicio y en el mantenimiento de la LM en las madres de estos niños.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a técnica e a duração do aleitamento materno em crianças saudáveis ​​e crianças com síndrome de Down (SD), com a utilização do formulário de observação do aleitamento materno. Materiais e métodos: estudo de coorte prospectivo observacional, realizado no Hospital Clínico de Granada, em 2015. O grupo de estudo foi composto por 40 pacientes com SD e o grupo controle formado por recém-nascidos com essa alteração e com crianças saudáveis, considerando as mesmas características de peso e idade gestacional. Os recém-nascidos avaliados estavam em um quarto conjunto com a mãe, onde a técnica foi avaliada durante os primeiros cinco dias pós-parto pela equipe médica. Uma análise bivariada foi realizada para comparar os grupos, utilizando o teste t de Student para as variáveis numéricas e o qui-quadrado para as variáveis categóricas. Resultados: a lactogênese ocorreu primeiramente no grupo sem SD (92,5 % nas primeiras 24 horas vs 20 %; p <0,001). Tornou-se evidente que 60 % das crianças saudáveis mantiveram a amamentação por mais de três meses, enquanto no grupo de bebês com SD, esse tempo foi de 47,5 %. Conclusões: os resultados deste estudo revelam que a técnica de amamentação apresentou no início mais dificuldades em mães de crianças com SD e demonstrou que erros técnicos influenciam o início e a manutenção do aleitamento materno em mães dessas crianças.