Curds in the way: A milk curd obstruction review and normal sonographic bowel appearances using a novel scoring system in neonates on fortified breast milk feeds.

INTRODUCTION: Fortified expressed breast milk (FEBM) is a standard of care for premature and low birth weight neonates, but comes with an elevated risk of a rare but re-emergent pathology called milk curd obstruction (MCO). Little is known about normal sonographic appearances of bowel contents in this feeding setting, making the recognition of abnormalities difficult. Thus, we aimed to describe appearances that may be considered typical pre- and post-fortifier inclusion. METHODS: Ten neonates of <32 weeks' gestation or a birth weight of <1,800 g recruited from Auckland City Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care between 1/5/2019 and 10/9/2019 received bowel ultrasounds within 24 h before and 10-14 days after starting FEBM. Bowel contents in six abdominal regions were assigned scores of 1-6 based on increasing solidification. RESULTS: Lower gestational age was correlated with more solid contents on the pre-fortifier ultrasound (P = 0.02). Fortifier was significantly associated with increasing solidity, particularly in the left abdomen (P < 0.001). The left lower quadrant and rectum accounted for much of this change (P = 0.012 and P = 0.002). One subject who subsequently developed a clinical picture consistent with early MCO had uniquely demonstrated non-rectal solid contents (score 6). The interobserver kappa score for two assessors was 0.91 (95% CI 0.94-0.99) on still images. CONCLUSION: This small cohort demonstrated increasing bowel content solidification after breast milk fortification using a novel ultrasound scoring system with good interobserver agreement. Non-rectal solid contents (score 6) appeared atypical. Ultrasound shows promise for its non-irradiating diagnostic utility in the setting of early milk curd disease evaluation of the premature neonate.

Polyphenol analysis in human milk by a rapid, cost-effective, and accurate micromethod: translational development / Análise de polifenóis no leite humano por meio de um micrométodo rápido, econômico e preciso: desenvolvimento translacional

ABSTRACT Objective: To develop a rapid method for analysing polyphenols, which are potentially active antioxidants against neonatal oxidative stress, from small human milk (HM) volumes. Methods: Acid and alkaline extractions were compared using two dyes: Folin-Ciocalteu and Fast Blue BB. Linearity, sensitivity, recovery percentage, polyphenol content, precision, and stability were assessed in 14 HM samples and compared using the Kruskal-Wallis H test (p<0.05). The best technique was applied to 284 HM samples to determine their polyphenolic content and its association with maternal diet by multifactorial linear regression. Results: Acidic extraction successfully recovered the gallic acid reference standard, whereas alkaline extraction overestimated it. Calibration curves for all methods were linear (R2>0.96) up to 500 mg/L. All bicarbonate-based Folin-Ciocalteu methods assayed were stable and repeatable, whereas Fast Blue BB-based variants were not. HM polyphenols (mean=94.68 mg/L) positively correlated to the dietary intake of hydroxycinnamic acids, the most consumed polyphenolic family in this population. Conclusions: A bicarbonate-based Folin-Ciocalteu micromethod allowed the accurate determination of polyphenols in HM, which might be useful for translational research settings and HM banks.

RESUMO Objetivo: Desenvolver um método rápido para analisar polifenóis, que são antioxidantes potencialmente ativos contra o estresse oxidativo neonatal, em pequenos volumes de leite humano (LH). Métodos: Foram comparadas extrações ácidas e alcalinas usando dois corantes: Folin-Ciocalteu e Fast Blue BB. Foram avaliadas variáveis como linearidade, sensibilidade, percentagem de recuperação, teor de polifenóis, precisão e estabilidade em 14 amostras de LH, comparadas usando o teste de Kruskal-Wallis H (p<0,05). A melhor técnica foi aplicada a 284 amostras de LH para determinar seu teor polifenólico e sua associação com a dieta materna por regressão linear multifatorial. Resultados: A extração ácida recuperou com sucesso o padrão de referência do ácido gálico, enquanto a extração alcalina o superestimou. As curvas de calibração para todos os métodos foram lineares (R2>0,96) até os 500 mg/L. Todos os métodos testados baseados em Folin-Ciocalteu com bicarbonato foram estáveis e repetíveis, enquanto as variantes baseadas em Fast Blue BB não. Os polifenóis do HM (média=94,68 mg/L) correlacionaram-se positivamente com a ingestão dietética de ácidos hidroxicinâmicos, a família de polifenóis mais consumida nesta população. Conclusões: Um micrométodo baseado em bicarbonato de Folin-Ciocalteu permitiu a determinação precisa de polifenóis no HM, o que pode ser útil para configurações de pesquisa translacional e bancos de HM.

Alimentación complementaria en lactantes y su relación con el estado nutricional / Complementary feeding of Mexican infants and its relation to the nutritional status

Background: Apropiate introduction to complementary feeding (CF) decreases the risk of nutritional diseases in infants; however there is a paucity of information about the characteristics of CF in mexican children. Objective: To characterize the complementary feeding of Mexican infants and its relation to the nutritional status. Methodology: Transversal, analytical and retrospective study in dyads that required medical care. We performed a nutritional evaluation of the infants and characterized the type of lactation, type and texture of initial solid foods and the subsequent feeding. Results: Final sample consisted of 141 children in which, 59.6% reported that feeding was provided exclusively with formula and only 40% received breast milk. 14.1% of the infants showed low weight-for-height, 17.7% low weight-for-age, and 24.1% low height-for-age. We observed that 55.3% of the infants did not receive complementary feeding with appropriate texture; 58.9% did not receive the appropriate amount; and 44.7, 62.4% and 11.3% received inappropriate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats respectively. Conclusion: A high proportion of infants do not receive appropriate complementary feeding.

Introducción: La introducción apropiada a la alimentación complementaria (AC) disminuye las enfermedades nutricionales en los niños; sin embargo, actualmente, no contamos con una caracterización apropiada de la AC que reciben los lactantes mexicanos. Objetivo: Caracterizar la alimentación complementaria de los lactantes mexicanos y su relación con el estado nutricional. Métodos: Estudio transversal, analítico, retrospectivo en diadas (madre y lactantes de cinco a 12 meses de edad) que acudieron a la consulta externa en la IMF No 82 y la guardería infantil IMSS 001. Se realizó una valoración nutricional de los niños y se analizó la lactancia, el tipo y textura de los alimentos sólidos de inicio y subsecuentes. Resultados: la muestra consistió en 141 niños. Unicamente el 40% de los lactantes recibían leche materna. 14.1% de los lactantes presentaron bajo peso para la talla, 17.7% bajo peso para la edad y 24.1% baja talla para la edad. Observamos que 55.3% de los niños no recibían alimentación complementaria con textura apropiada; 58.9% no recibían cantidad apropiada; y 44.7%, 62.4% y 11.3% recibían cantidades inapropiadas de carbohidratos, proteínas y grasas respectivamente. Conclusión: nuestros datos indican que una alta proporción de los lactantes no reciben alimentación complementaria apropiada.

[Effect of pasteurization and freezing on the content of IgA1 and IgA2 subtypes in breast milk]. / Reducción del contenido de IgA1 e IgA2 en la leche materna por efecto de la pasteurización y congelación.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of pasteurization and freezing on the content of IgA1 and IgA2 in breast milk. METHODS: Observational, retrospective study, carried out in women who had been breastfeeding their newborn for more than 30 days, and could donate 50 mL of milk. The concentration of IgA1 and IgA2 was determined by turbidimetry, before and after being subjected to pasteurization and freezing, every 15 days for 2 months. Freezing was at -20°C. A total IgA content of 1598.5 mg/dL was found. RESULTS: 10 breast milk donors were selected. The initial concentration of IgA1 and IA2 was 651 and 945.7 mg/dL, respectively; At the end of the freezing times, the content of both immunoglobulins decreased: IgA1 of 74% and IgA2 of 86%. After the treatments, the immunoglobulin content decreased dramatically, with a significant difference of p < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: Pasteurization and freezing significantly affect the content of IgA1 and IgA in breast milk; therefore, breast-feeding remains the best way to offer full immunological protection to the infant.

OBJECTIVO: Determinar el efecto de la pasteurización y congelación en el contenido de IgA1 e IgA2 en la leche materna. MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional y retrospectivo, llevado a cabo en mujeres que tuvieran más de 30 días de ofrecer lactancia a su neonato, y pudieran donar 50 mL de leche. Se determinó la concentración de IgA1 e IgA2 mediante turbidimetría, antes y después de someterse a pasteurización y congelación, cada 15 días durante 2 meses. La congelación fue a ­20°C. Se encontró un contenido total de IgA de 1598,5 mg/dL. RESULTADOS: Se seleccionaron 10 donantes de leche materna. La concentración inicial de IgA1 e IA2 fue de 651 y 945.7 mg/dL, respectivamente; al finalizar los tiempos de congelación disminuyó el contenido de ambas inmunoglobulinas: IgA1 del 74% e IgA2 del 86%. Después de los tratamientos, el contenido de inmunoglobulinas disminuyó de forma contundente, con diferencia significativa de p < 0.05. CONCLUSIONES: La pasteurización y la congelación afectan de manera importante el contenido de IgA1 e IgA en la leche materna; por tanto, la alimentación al seno materno sigue siendo la mejor forma de ofrecer toda protección inmunológica al lactante.

Attitudes and counselling of healthcare professionals on increasing breast milk: cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the breast milk-increasing practices healthcare professionals used with their children and their recommendations to mothers. METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional study in a Mediterranean region of Turkey. It was carried out with 301 healthcare professionals working in 64 Family Health Centers between January and June 2018. The data were collected by the researchers with a questionnaire including 28 questions. RESULTS: The mean age of healthcare professionals was 36.89±8.5. All the healthcare professionals encountered mothers with the perception of insufficient breast milk. 73.7% of those with children had breast milk-increasing practices. Increased age negatively affected these practices (OR: 0.923), and increased education positively affected the practices (OR: 3.489). Having received training on breastfeeding and breast milk-increasing measures positively affected the use of practices (OR: 2.118). The use of breast milk-increasing practices by healthcare professionals positively affected their recommendations to mothers (OR: 2.506). CONCLUSIONS: Health professionals had their own breast milk boosting practices that they recommended to women as well. This result is especially significant in terms of guiding mothers who wish to increase breast milk supply and seek reliable information and contributes to the protection of maternal and newborn health.

Aleitamento materno de prematuros internados em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva neonatal: coorte prospectiva / Breastfeeding of premature infants hospitalized in a neonatal Intensive Care Unit: a prospective cohort / Lactancia materna de bebés prematuros hospitalizados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos neonatales: cohorte prospectiva

Identificar variáveis com potencial de intervenção que estejam associadas ao volume de leite esgotado das mães de recém-nascidos prematuros. Trata-se de um estudo de coorte, descritivo e exploratório. A coleta de dados ocorreu em um hospital materno-infantil do Sul do Brasil no período de julho de 2021 a janeiro de 2022, por meio de entrevistas a 20 mães de recém-nascidos prematuros. Verificou-se que, em relação ao número de vezes ao dia que foi realizado o esgotamento hospitalar e domiciliar, a mediana foi de 4 vezes. A maioria das mães utilizou dois métodos de esgotamento das mamas (manual e com bomba de sucção). O estudo identificou que o volume de leite esgotado foi abaixo do esperado pelo Ministério da Saúde. Destaca-se a falta de procura do banco de leite para o esgotamento, problemas relacionados à mama, como exemplo o método utilizado para esgotamento.

To identify variables with intervention potential that are associated with the volume of depleted milk from mothers of premature newborns. This is a cohort, descriptive, and exploratory study. Data collection occurred in a maternal-infant hospital in southern Brazil from July 2021 to January 2022, through interviews with 20 mothers of premature newborns. It was verified that, in relation to the number of times per day that hospital and home milk expression was performed, the median was 4 times. Most mothers used two methods of breast milk expression (manual and with suction pump). The study found that the volume of expressed milk was lower than expected by the Ministry of Health. We highlight the lack of demand of the milk bank for expression, problems related to the breast, as an example of the method used for expression.

Identificar variables con potencial de intervención que se asocian al volumen de leche agotada de madres de recién nacidos prematuros. Se trata de un estudio de cohortes, descriptivo y exploratorio. La recolección de datos ocurrió en un hospital materno-infantil en el sur de Brasil de julio de 2021 a enero de 2022, a través de entrevistas con 20 madres de recién nacidos prematuros. Se verificó que, en relación al número de veces por día que se realizaba el agotamiento hospitalario y domiciliario, la media fue de 4 veces. La mayoría de las madres utilizaron dos métodos de depleción mamaria (manual y con succión apretada). El estudio identificó que el volumen de leche empobrecida fue menor de que lo esperado por el Ministerio de Salud. Destacamos la falta de demanda del banco de leche por agotamiento, problemas relacionados con la mama, como ejemplo del método utilizado para el agotamiento.

Conteúdo energético do leite humano administrado em recém nascidos prematuros / Energy content of human milk administered to premature newborns / Contenido energético de la leche humana administrada a recién nacidos prematuros

Objetivo: avaliar e comparar o conteúdo energético do leite humano cru e do leite humano processado de recém-nascidos pré-termo. Método: foram coletadas 68 amostras de leite por meio de ordenha manual e o processamento foi realizado no Banco de Leite Humano. O valor energético foi obtido por meio de cálculos matemáticos específicos. Resultados: foram analisadas 32 amostras de leite humano cru e 28 de leite humano pasteurizado. O percentual médio de creme foi de 3,84±1,3% e mediana de 4,5 % no leite pasteurizado, e no cru de 8,9±4,6% e 8,53%. A média e mediana do conteúdo energético do leite cru foi de 78,91±15,46 kcal/100 ml e 81,07 kcal/100 ml e no leite pasteurizado 65,18±9,67 kcal/ 100 ml e 61,8 kcal/100 ml. Conclusão: o leite humano cru possui percentual de gordura e conteúdo energético maior do que o pasteurizado, mas este ainda é recomendado devido seus benefícios protetores.

Objective: to evaluate and compare the energy content of raw human milk and processed human milk from preterm newborns. Method: 68 milk samples were collected by hand milking and processing was carried out at the Human Milk Bank. The energy value was obtained through specific mathematical calculations. Results: 32 samples of raw human milk and 28 of pasteurized human milk were analyzed. The average percentage of cream was 3.84±1.3% and a median of 4.5% in pasteurized milk, and in raw milk, 8.9±4.6% and 8.53%. The mean and median energy content of raw milk was 78.91±15.46 kcal/100 ml and 81.07 kcal/100 ml and in pasteurized milk 65.18 ± 9.67 kcal/100 ml and 61.8 kcal/100 ml. Conclusion: raw human milk has a higher percentage of fat and energy content than pasteurized milk, but it is still recommended due to its protective benefits.

Objetivo: evaluar y comparar el contenido energético de la leche humana cruda y la leche humana procesada de recién nacidos prematuros. Método: Se recolectaron 68 muestras de leche por ordeño manual y el procesamiento se realizó en el Banco de Leche Humana. El valor energético se obtuvo mediante cálculos matemáticos específicos. Resultados: se analizaron 32 muestras de leche humana cruda y 28 de leche humana pasteurizada. El porcentaje medio de nata fue 3,84±1,3% y una mediana de 4,5% en leche pasteurizada, y en leche cruda 8,9±4,6% y 8,53%. El contenido energético medio y mediano de la leche cruda fue de 78,91±15,46 kcal/100 ml y 81,07 kcal/100 ml y de la leche pasteurizada de 65,18±9,67 kcal/100 ml y 61,8 kcal/100 ml. Conclusión: la leche humana cruda tiene un mayor porcentaje de contenido graso y energético que la leche pasteurizada, pero aun así es recomendada por sus beneficios protectores.

Research progress of human milk exosomes and their effects on intestinal mucosal barrier in neonates / 中华围产医学杂志

Human breast milk-derived exosomes (HMDEs) are newly discovered active signaling vesicles in breast milk, which are rich in nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids. These exosomes play an essential role in the development and maturation of the intestinal mucosal barrier in newborns. In addition, HMDEs possess distinctive properties that allow for remodeling and modification, thereby are expected to provide more efficient prevention and treatment strategies for neonatal intestinal diseases. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the origin, isolation, identification, labeling, structural features, composition, and biological functions, and their unique impact on the intestinal mucosal barrier function in newborns.

Breast-milk scientific research contributes to improvement of breast milk quality and development of human civilization / 中华围产医学杂志

Breast milk, the product of mammalian evolution, provides infants with not only vital nutrients, but also an array of nourishing contents, including bioactive substances, microorganisms, and cells. Being a crucial stage of reproductive health, breastfeeding serves as the primary means of nutrient absorption during early life. However, the scientific evaluation of its health effects remains inaccurate. The study of breast milk has emerged as a new interdisciplinary research hotspot, offering a new paradigm for explorations in life health, disease prevention, clinical treatment, social ethics, and economic advancement. This paper reviewed and discussed the research progress of breast milk science both domestically and internationally and the gap in between, and proposed a promising perspective for future research and development.

Research progress in changes of Na + concentration and Na +/K + value in breast milk of lactating women at different conditions / 中华围产医学杂志

Breastfeeding is a key factor influencing infants' short- and long-term health, thus making it important to monitor breast function. This article reviews the changes in Na + concentration and Na +/K + value in breast milk during secretory activation and at physiological and pathological conditions, aiming to provide a reference for early clinical assessment and intervention of physiological or pathological changes in the breast during lactation and to improve the outcome of breastfeeding.

Progress in therapeutic potential of human breast milk-derived exosomes in neonate necrotizing enterocolitis / 中华围产医学杂志

Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the leading causes of neonatal death and no effective therapeutic drugs are currently available. Breastfeeding is a safe and effective preventive measure for NEC. Human breast milk-derived exosomes (HM-exos), which are membranous vesicles in breast milk, play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier and promoting the repair of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) damage through protecting IECs from oxidative stress, improving the proliferation and migration of IECs, maintaining the tight connection between IECs, inhibiting inflammatory response and regulating immune response.

Differential proteomic profiling of breast milk-derived extracellular vesicles from mothers of preterm and term infants / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To analyze the differential expression of breast milk-derived extracellular vesicles (BM-EV) from mothers of preterm and term infants .Methods:Breast milk samples were collected from preterm and term delivery (three cases in each) at the Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University in 2019. BM-EV was extracted using ultracentrifugation. After preliminary identification of the characteristics of BM-EV, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used for protein quantification. Significantly up-regulated differential proteins (fold change≥1.5 and P<0.05) in the preterm group were screened. GO and KEGG were performed to predict the differentially expressed proteins' functional annotation and determine associated signaling pathways. Mann-Whitney U test and Fisher's exact test were used for intergroup comparisons. Pearson's correlation test describes the correlation of protein quantification values between samples. The differences in protein abundance were compared between the two groups using a t-test, followed by multiple corrections. Additionally, significantly enriched GO terms and KEGG pathways of the differentially expressed proteins were screened based on the hypergeometric distribution. Results:(1) There were three primiparae in the preterm group and one in the term group. Marker proteins CD9, CD81, and HSP70 were enriched in the BM-EV of both groups. (2) Six samples were comparable between groups and showed high reproducibility within groups. The correlation of protein quantification values between samples was up to 0.99. Furthermore, the coefficient of variation was 11.21% for preterm samples and 19.72% for term, and the data values in the preterm group were relative. (3) A total of 945 proteins were identified, and 156 were differentially expressed between preterm and term BM-EV, with 83 significantly up-regulated in preterm BM-EV. In the up-regulated proteins, the top three high-abundance proteins were complemented C4a, fatty acid synthase, and sclerostin domain-containing protein-1. (4) The biological processes or cellular components with the highest enrichment in GO functional prediction were mainly involved in hemoglobin and glycogen biosynthesis, immunological synapse formation, and phagocytosis mediated by the Fc γ receptor signaling pathway. The most relevant KEGG pathways were ribosome-related, complement and coagulation cascades, neutrophil extracellular trap formation, and Fc γ receptor-mediated phagocytosis.Conclusion:The significantly up-regulated differential proteins in BM-EV may play a protective role by regulating immunity, gastrointestinal function, and energy metabolism in preterm infants.

[Yerba mate as a safe polyphenolic source during human lactation]. / La yerba mate como fuente segura de polifenoles durante la lactancia humana.

Background: Yerba mate intake is conditioned by assumptions about its benefits and risks for breastfeeding, with a lack of solid evidence. Objective: To evaluate the safety of yerba mate teas during human lactation. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study with 279 adult lactating women from Argentina (years 2013-2020), during the first six months postpartum, without current pregnancy or active pathologies. Social, reproductive, and food data were compiled. Body mass index and percentage of body fat were also established. The adherence to dietary patterns, intake of yerba mate and its phytochemicals were estimated. Milk biochemistry included nutritional, oxidative and tissue markers. Intake means were compared using the Wilcoxon's test depending on the data recorded, while the multiple nonparametric Kernel regression was used to evaluate the effects on body and milk. Results: It was found a wide range of intake, and tube-sipped tea was the main way of consumption. Concerning its constraints, in-cup tea was more used by women without a partner, whereas tube-sipped tea was consumed mainly by employed women, during late postpartum, and with 12 or more years of formal education. Additionally, these teas were an important source of 18 hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids. Moreover, yerba mate provided more than 35% of dietary polyphenols. No anthropometric effects or changes in milk nutrients and biomarkers were found. Conclusions: Yerba mate was a safe source of polyphenols, as it did not compromise lactation and maternal nutritional status.

Introducción: el consumo de yerba mate está condicionado por supuestos sobre sus beneficios y riesgos para la lactancia materna, los cuales carecen de evidencia sólida. Objetivo: evaluar la seguridad de las infusiones de yerba mate durante la lactancia. Material y métodos: estudio transversal con 279 mujeres lactantes adultas de Argentina (años 2013-2020), en los primeros seis meses postparto, sin embarazo ni patologías activas. Se recopilaron datos sociales, reproductivos y alimentarios, índice de masa corporal y porcentaje de grasa corporal. Se estimó adherencia a patrones alimentarios, consumo de mate y sus fitoquímicos. Se analizaron marcadores nutricionales, oxidativos y tisulares en leche. Por la prueba de Wilcoxon, se compararon las medias de consumo según las variables recopiladas y por regresión no paramétrica de Kernel múltiple se evaluaron los efectos corporales y lácteos. Resultados: se encontró un amplio rango en la ingesta de infusiones y el mate cebado fue la principal forma consumida. Respecto a sus condicionantes, el mate cocido fue más bebido por mujeres sin pareja, mientras que el mate cebado fue más consumido por puérperas tardías, con empleo y nivel educativo ≥ 12 años. Además, estas infusiones constituyeron una fuente relevante de 18 ácidos hidroxicinámicos y flavonoides, que proveyeron diariamente más del 35% de los polifenoles dietarios. No se encontraron efectos corporales ni cambios en los niveles de los nutrientes y en los biomarcadores lácteos. Conclusiones: la yerba mate fue una fuente polifenólica segura que no comprometió la lactancia ni el estado nutricional materno.

Composition of Human Breast Milk Microbiota and Its Role in Children's Health.

Human milk contains a number of nutritional and bioactive molecules including microorganisms that constitute the so-called "Human Milk Microbiota (HMM)". Recent studies have shown that not only bacterial but also viral, fungal, and archaeal components are present in the HMM. Previous research has established, a "core" microbiome, consisting of Firmicutes (i.e., Streptococcus, Staphylococcus), Proteobacteria (i.e., Serratia, Pseudomonas, Ralstonia, Sphingomonas, Bradyrhizobium), and Actinobacteria (i.e., Propionibacterium, Corynebacterium). This review aims to summarize the main characteristics of HMM and the role it plays in shaping a child's health. We reviewed the most recent literature on the topic (2019-2021), using the PubMed database. The main sources of HMM origin were identified as the retrograde flow and the entero-mammary pathway. Several factors can influence its composition, such as maternal body mass index and diet, use of antibiotics, time and type of delivery, and mode of breastfeeding. The COVID-19 pandemic, by altering the mother-infant dyad and modifying many of our previous habits, has emerged as a new risk factor for the modification of HMM. HMM is an important contributor to gastrointestinal colonization in children and therefore, it is fundamental to avoid any form of perturbation in the HMM that can alter the microbial equilibrium, especially in the first 100 days of life. Microbial dysbiosis can be a trigger point for the development of necrotizing enterocolitis, especially in preterm infants, and for onset of chronic diseases, such as asthma and obesity, later in life.

Survey on the Status of Breastfeeding in Korean Medical Institution Workers.

BACKGROUND: Human breast milk is essential and provides irreplaceable nutrients for early humans. However, breastfeeding is not easy for various reasons in medical institution environments. Therefore, in order to improve the breastfeeding environment, we investigated the difficult reality of breastfeeding through questionnaire responses from medical institution workers. METHODS: A survey was conducted among 179 medical institution workers with experience in childbirth within the last five years. The survey results of 175 people were analyzed, with incoherent answers excluded. RESULTS: Of the 175 people surveyed, a total of 108 people (61.7%) worked during the day, and 33 people (18.9%) worked in three shifts. Among 133 mothers who stayed with their babies in the same nursing room, 111 (93.3%) kept breastfeeding for more than a month, but among those who stayed apart, only 10 (71.4%) continued breastfeeding for more than a month (P = 0.024). Ninety-five (88.0%) of daytime workers, 32 (94.1%) two-shift workers, and 33 (100%) three-shift workers continued breastfeeding for more than a month (P = 0.026). Workers in general hospitals tended to breastfeed for significantly longer than those that worked in tertiary hospitals (P = 0.003). A difference was also noted between occupation categories (P = 0.019), but a more significant difference was found in the comparison between nurses and doctors (P = 0.012). Longer breastfeeding periods were noted when mothers worked three shifts (P = 0.037). Depending on the period planned for breastfeeding prior to childbirth, the actual breastfeeding maintenance period after birth showed a significant difference (P = 0.002). Of 112 mothers who responded to the question regarding difficulties in breastfeeding after returning to work, 87 (77.7%) mentioned a lack of time caused by being busy at work, 82 (73.2%) mentioned the need for places and appropriate circumstances. CONCLUSION: In medical institutions, it is recommended that environmental improvements in medical institutions, the implementation of supporting policies, and the provision of specialized education on breastfeeding are necessary to promote breastfeeding.

Burden of Early Life Obesity and Its Relationship with Protein Intake in Infancy: The Middle East Expert Consensus.

Adequate nutrition in early life is proposed to shape a child's future health by launching the growth trajectory in the proper direction, which helps to avoid negative metabolic programming effects. Protein intake during infancy and early childhood is of great importance, as it plays a key role in infant metabolic programming and the future risk of obesity. Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition in early life, with many benefits tailored for the baby, including the appropriate quantity and quality of proteins. Considering the high prevalence of childhood, and subsequent adult, obesity in the region, a virtual Middle East expert consensus meeting was held to discuss an effective approach for managing childhood obesity. Leading pediatric experts from Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates participated in the meeting. The experts discussed, debated, and agreed on certain directions, including the importance of educating parents, endorsing breastfeeding, and ensuring optimum quantity and quality intake of proteins in early life. This expert consensus may serve as the starting point for healthcare professionals in the region who are interested in shaping a healthy future for the generations to come.

Banco de Leite Humano: possibilidades de atuação fonoaudiológica / Human Milk Bank: possibilities of speech therapy activities / Banco de leche humana: posibilidades de actuación fonoaudiológica

Introdução: os bancos de leite humano foram criados para apoiar e incentivar o aleitamento materno, atuando como estratégia de política pública na redução da mortalidade neonatal e proteção à saúde do binômio. Por se tratar de um espaço de atuação multidisciplinar, os bancos de leite tornam-se um ambiente ideal para a atuação do fonoaudiólogo, profissional que contribui no suporte às mães, especialmente durante o estabelecimento da amamentação exclusiva. Objetivo: relatar as possibilidades de atuação fonoaudiológica em um banco de leite humano. Descrição da experiência: estudo de abordagem qualitativa descritiva do tipo relato de experiência, realizado entre os meses de março e julho de 2020, em um Banco de Leite Humano de uma maternidade pública do Nordeste, credenciada na Iniciativa Hospital Amigo da Criança. A vivência compreendeu dois seguimentos: atuação técnica e atuação assistencial. As experiências foram apresentadas por meio da narração discursiva. O espaço de atuação da Fonoaudiologia em um banco de leite humano pode ser diversificado, pois abrange a atuação técnica e assistencial, desde o recebimento do leite humano doado à assistência a puérpera e ao recém-nascido. É necessário capacitação específica para que o profissional seja inserido dentro da equipe de um banco de leite humano. Considerações finais: Foi possível identificar, por meio da experiência, o papel do fonoaudiólogo no banco de leite humano, bem como compreender a necessidade da sua inserção na equipe deste setor no âmbito hospitalar.

Introduction: human milk banks were created to support and encourage breastfeeding, acting as a public policy strategy to reduce neonatal mortality and protect the health of the binomial. Because it is a space for multidisciplinary activities, milk banks become an ideal environment for the performance of the speech therapist, a professional who contributes to support mothers, especially during the establishment of exclusive breastfeeding. Objective: to report the possibilities of speech therapy activities in a human milk bank. Description of the experience: a qualitative descriptive study of an experience report type, carried out between March and July 2020, at a Human Milk Bank of a public maternity hospital in the Brazilian Northeast, accredited by the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative. The experience comprised two segments: technical performance and assistance performance. The experiences were presented through discursive narration. The area of performance of Speech Therapy in a human milk bank can be diversified, as it covers technical and assistance activities, from the receipt of donated human milk to assistance to the puerperal woman and the newborn. Specific training is necessary for the professional to be inserted into the team of a human milk bank. Final considerations: It was possible to identify, through experience, the role of the speech therapist in the human milk bank, as well as to understand the need for his insertion in the team of this sector in the hospital environment.

Introducción: los bancos de leche humana fueron creados para apoyar e incentivar en el amamantamiento materno, actuando como estrategia de política pública en la reducción de la mortalidad neonatal y la protección de la salud del binomio. Por tratarse de un espacio de actuación multidisciplinar, los bancos de leche se convirtieron en un ambiente ideal para la actuación del fonoaudiólogo, profesional que contribuye en apoyo a las madres, especialmente durante el establecimiento del amamantamiento exclusivo. Objetivo: relatar las posibilidades de actuación fonoaudiológica en un banco de leche humana. Descripción de la experiencia: estudio de abordaje cualitativo descriptivo de tipo relato de experiencia, realizado entre los meses de marzo a julio del 2020, en un Banco de leche humana de una maternidad pública del Noroeste, bajo la iniciativa del Hospital Amigo de los Niños. La vivencia comprendió dos seguimientos: actuación técnica y actuación asistencial. Las experiencias fueron presentadas por medio de la narración discursiva. El espacio de actuación de la fonoaudiología en un banco del hecho humana puede ser diversificado, pues comprende tanto la actuación técnica como la asistencial, desde el recibimiento de la leche materna donada a la asistencia, la matrona y al recién nacido. Es necesario capacitación específica para que el profesional sea inserto dentro del equipo de un Banco de leche humana. Consideraciones finales: fue posible identificar, por medio de la experiencia del papel del fonoaudiólogo en el banco de leche humana, así como comprender la necesidad de su inserción en el equipo de este sector en el ámbito hospitalario.

Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic: what do we know so far?

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to conduct a literature review on safety in breastfeeding in mothers with COVID-19. An integrative review of national and international literature was carried out. Methods The search took place in the SciELO, LILACS and MEDLINE® databases. Results A total of 25 scientific articles that specifically addressed the theme of breastfeeding and its risk and protective factors for infection by SARS-CoV-2 were selected. According to the studies analyzed, although the presence of viral RNA had already been detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction in breast milk samples, there are still no proven cases of vertical transmission via human milk. Conclusion Breastfeeding appears to be safe if practiced according to precaution measures recommended by the World Health Organization. In addition, there is evidence of a potential for immunological protection by transfer of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in breast milk. Breastfeeding should continue to be promoted even in cases of mothers with clinical suspicion or confirmation of COVID-19, as well as the provision of expressed breast milk in cases where there is no possibility of direct breastfeeding.

Conhecimento das mulheres que participam dos grupos virtuais hospedados no Facebook sobre o aleitamento materno / Knowledge about breastfeeding among women who participate in virtual groups hosted on Facebook / Conocimiento de las mujeres que participan en grupos virtuales alojados en Facebook sobre la lactancia materna

Objetivo: identificar o conhecimento das mulheres que participam de grupos virtuais hospedados no Facebook sobre o aleitamento materno. Método: pesquisa qualitativa de caráter exploratório e descritivo, realizada no período de setembro a novembro de 2020, com 15 mulheres que participam de grupos inscritos no Facebook que abordam a temática aleitamento materno. Os dados foram coletados por meio do Google Forms e, posteriormente, submetidos à análise de conteúdo. Resultados: as participantes demonstraram conhecimento sobre os benefícios do aleitamento materno, a pega e o posicionamento correto ao seio. Elas compreendem o conceito de aleitamento materno exclusivo e livre demanda. O discurso recorrente como motivador para participação dos grupos virtuais baseia-se na busca de conhecimento. Conclusão: a educação em saúde tem sua importância reafirmada pelas participantes ao apontarem que as informações sobre o aleitamento materno foram obtidas predominantemente por meio dos serviços de saúde e estratégias, como curso/grupo de gestantes.

Objective: to identify the knowledge about breastfeeding of women who participate in virtual groups hosted on Facebook. Method: qualitative research, with an exploratory and descriptive nature, conducted from September to November 2020, with 15 women who participate in groups registered on Facebook that address the theme of breastfeeding. Data were collected using Google Forms and, subsequently, submitted to content analysis. Results: the participants demonstrated knowledge about the benefits of breastfeeding, latching and the correct positioning at the breast. They understand the concept of exclusive breastfeeding and free demand. The recurrent speech as a motivator for participating in the virtual groups is based on the search for knowledge. Conclusion: health education has its importance reaffirmed by the participants when they pointed out that the information on breastfeeding was predominantly obtained through health services and strategies, such as courses/pregnant women's groups.

Objetivo: identificar los conocimientos de las mujeres que participan en grupos virtuales alojados en Facebook sobre la lactancia materna. Método: investigación cualitativa de naturaleza exploratoria y descriptiva, realizada en el período de septiembre a noviembre de 2020, con 15 mujeres que participan en grupos inscritos en Facebook que abordan el tema de la lactancia materna. Los datos se recopilaron mediante Google Forms y, posteriormente, se sometieron a un análisis de contenido. Resultados: las participantes demostraron conocimiento sobre los beneficios de la lactancia materna, la captura y la posición correcta del pecho. Comprenden el concepto de lactancia materna exclusiva y la libre demanda. El discurso recurrente como motivador de la participación en los grupos virtuales se basa en la búsqueda del conocimiento. Conclusión: la educación en salud tiene su importancia reafirmada por las participantes cuando admiten que las informaciones sobre la lactancia materna fueron obtenidas predominantemente por medio de los servicios de salud y estrategias, como curso/grupo de embarazadas.

Qualidade microbiológica do leite humano pasteurizado de um Banco de Leite Paulista / Calidad microbiológica de la leche humana pasteurizada de un banco de leche paulista / Microbiological quality of pasteurized human milk from a Milk Bank of São Paulo

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a qualidade microbiológica do leite humano pasteurizado proveniente de um Banco de Leite Humano do Estado de São Paulo. Métodos Estudo descritivo conduzido com 29 amostras de leite humano ordenhado pasteurizado (LHOP) obtidas entre julho de 2015 a março de 2016 por meio da avaliação dos registros da acidez titulável bem como da quantificação da microbiota heterotrófica (mesófilos, psicrófilos, termófilos), coliformes totais e termotolerantes, fungos filamentosos e leveduriformes e Staphylococcus spp. Realizou-se a avaliação dos parâmetros físico-químicos por meio do potencial hidrogeniônico-pH, teor energético-K e acidez Dornic-ºD. Análises estatísticas descritivas e bivariadas foram conduzidas. Resultados Evidenciou-se nas amostras a presença de psicrófilos (17,24%), termófilos (27,59%), mesófilos (55,17%), fungos filamentosos e leveduriformes (41,38%) e ausência de Staphylococcus spp. Detectou-se a presença de 82,76% de coliformes no teste presuntivo. Já no teste confirmativo VB constatou-se a presença de 54,16% de coliformes totais e no teste EC 33,33% de coliformes termotolerantes. Os valores de pH e de K não apresentaram oscilações, enquanto que, na expressão da acidez entre 3º a 15°D detectou-se crescimento microbiano. O microrganismo mesófilo, apresentou correlação positiva com variável da acidez Dornic (r=0.44;p=0.01). Conclusão A partir da avaliação da qualidade microbiológica das amostras de LHOP descartado e consideradas impróprias para consumo no referido BLH, especificamente com relação aos indicadores microbiológicos das condições de higiene, sugere que a inviabilidade das amostras possam estar associadas às boas práticas de manipulação do alimento.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar la calidad microbiológica de la leche humana pasteurizada proveniente de un banco de leche humana del estado de São Paulo. Métodos Estudio descriptivo realizado con 29 muestras de leche humana ordeñada pasteurizada (LHOP) obtenidas entre julio de 2015 y marzo de 2016 por medio de la evaluación de los registros de acidez titulable, así como de la cuantificación de la microbiota heterótrofa (mesófilos, psicrófilos, termófilos), coliformes totales y termotolerantes, hongos filamentosos y levaduriformes y Staphylococcus spp. Se realizó la evaluación de los parámetros físico-químicos mediante el potencial de hidrógeno (pH), valor energético (K) y acidez Dornic-ºD. Se llevaron a cabo análisis descriptivos y bivariados. Resultados Se observó en las muestras la presencia de psicrófilos (17,24 %), termófilos (27,59 %), mesófilos (55,17 %), hongos filamentosos y levaduriformes (41,38 %) y ausencia de Staphylococcus spp. Se detectó la presencia del 82,76 % de coliformes en la prueba presuntiva. Por otro lado, en la prueba confirmativa VB se confirmó la presencia del 54,16 % de coliformes totales, y en la prueba EC se verificó el 33,33 % de coliformes termotolerantes. Los valores de pH y de K no presentaron oscilaciones, mientras que se detectó crecimiento microbiano en la expresión de la acidez entre 3 y 15°D. El microrganismo mesófilo presentó correlación positiva con variable de la acidez Dornic (r=0.44; p=0.01). Conclusión A partir de la evaluación de calidad microbiológica de las muestras de LHOP descartadas y consideradas inapropiadas para consumo en el BLH mencionado, especialmente respecto a los indicadores microbiológicos de las condiciones de higiene, se sugiere que la inviabilidad de las muestras pueda estar asociada con las buenas prácticas de manipulación del alimento.

Abstract Objective To assess the microbiological quality of pasteurized human milk from a Human Milk Bank in the State of São Paulo. Methods This is a descriptive study conducted with 29 pasteurized expressed human milk (PEHM) samples obtained between July 2015 and March 2016 by assessing titratable acidity records as well as quantifying heterotrophic microbiota (mesophiles, psychrophiles, thermophiles), total and thermotolerant coliforms, filamentous and yeast-like fungi and Staphylococcus spp. The physical-chemical parameters were assessed via hydrogen-pH potential, K-energy content and Dornic-ºD acidity. Descriptive and bivariate statistical analyzes were conducted. Results The presence of psychrophiles (17.24%), thermophiles (27.59%), mesophiles (55.17%), filamentous and yeast-like fungi (41.38%) and absence of Staphylococcus spp were evidenced in the sample. The presence of 82.76% of coliforms was detected in the presumptive test. In the confirmatory VB test, the presence of 54.16% of total coliforms was found and, in the EC test, we verified 33.33% of thermotolerant coliforms. The pH and K values did not show oscillations, whereas, in the expression of acidity between 3º and 15°D, microbial growth was detected. The mesophilic microorganism showed a positive correlation with the Dornic acidity variable (r=0.44; p=0.01). Conclusion Based on the microbiological quality assessment of the HMB samples discarded and considered unfit for consumption in the HMB, specifically regarding the microbiological indicators of hygiene conditions, it suggests that the infeasibility of the samples may be associated with good food handling practices.