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Journal of Reproduction & Infertility 2023Cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) is a novel screening method for fetal aneuploidy that facilitated non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) through analysis of cffDNA in... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) is a novel screening method for fetal aneuploidy that facilitated non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) through analysis of cffDNA in maternal plasma. However, despite increased sensitivity, it has a number of limitations that may complicate of its results interpretation. Therefore, elucidating factors affecting fetal fraction, as a critical limitation, guides its clinical application.
METHODS
In this report, systematic search was carried out through PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases until February 11, 2022 by using keywords consist of "noninvasive prenatal screening", "NIPT", "noninvasive prenatal", "cell free DNA" and "fetal fraction". The articles were screened for eligibility criteria before data extraction.
RESULTS
A total of 39 eligible studies, most published between 2010 and 2020, were included. Based on the results of studies, a negative correlation between maternal age and BMI/body weight with fetal fraction was found. Furthermore, LDL, cholesterol, triglyceride level, metformin, heparin and enoxaparin therapy, hemoglobin-related hemoglobinopathies, and physical activity showed to have negative associations. Interestingly, it seems the ethnicity of patients from South and East Asia has a correlation with fetal fraction compared to Caucasians. Positive correlation was observed between gestational age, free β-hCG, PAPP-A, living in high altitude, and twin pregnancy.
CONCLUSION
Considering each factor, there was significant inconsistency and controversy regarding their impact on outcomes. Indeed, multiple factors can influence the accuracy of NIPS results, and it is worth noting that the impact of these factors may vary depending on the individual's ethnic background. Therefore, it is important to recognize that NIPS remains a screening test, and comprehensive pre- and post-NIPS counseling should be conducted as part of standard clinical practice.
PubMed: 38164433
DOI: 10.18502/jri.v24i4.14149 -
Frontiers in Physiology 2023Push-up (PU) is widely considered an effective exercise to stabilize the scapular, especially if performed on unstable surfaces. However, available studies cover a wide...
Push-up (PU) is widely considered an effective exercise to stabilize the scapular, especially if performed on unstable surfaces. However, available studies cover a wide range of exercise variations and differ according to exercise prescription, muscle selection and study design. Therefore, findings are contradictory, and conclusions for a proper application of the PU are difficult to draw. To synthesize the available literature on the changes in the activity of the periscapular muscles in individuals without scapular dyskinesis while performing different types of PU on unstable surfaces. Four online databases were searched from the earliest publications to 9 August 2023, using predefined keywords. Out of the 2,850 potential references identified in the primary search, 92 studies were reviewed in detail, of which 38 met the inclusion criteria and were included. Methodological quality was evaluated using a standardized form based on the Newcastle‒Ottawa scale for observational studies. Data combination was performed using CMA (v3), and the random-effects model was used to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The use of unstable surfaces in people without scapular dyskinesis led to increased activity of the upper trapezius during the PU ( = 0.017; I = 84.95%; SMD = 0.425 [95% CI 0.077, 0.773]) and knee PU ( = 0.023; I = 70.23%; SMD = 0.474 [95% CI 0.066, 0.882]) exercises and increased activity of the middle trapezius (MT) ( = 0.003; I = 64.50%; SMD = 0.672 [95% CI 0.225, 1.119]) and serratus anterior (SA) ( = 0.039; I = 4.25%; SMD = 0.216 [95% CI 0.011, 0.420]) muscles during the push-up plus (PUP) exercise. Using an unstable support base during PU does not necessarily increase the activity of all scapular stabilizers. The amount of muscle activity depends on the type of PU other than the type of support base. If an unstable surface is used, PUP exercise appears to be the most effective modality to increase the quality of training, improve performance, and prevent the occurrence of scapular dyskinesis due to the increase in the activity of the MT and SA muscles. http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, CRD42021268465.
PubMed: 38116582
DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1296279 -
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders Dec 2023The multifactorial aetiology of scoliosis is well known. Physical activity is considered both a treatment and causative factor for idiopathic scoliosis; however,...
BACKGROUND
The multifactorial aetiology of scoliosis is well known. Physical activity is considered both a treatment and causative factor for idiopathic scoliosis; however, evidence for a causal relationship between physical activity levels and idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents is conflicting. Therefore, we aimed to summarise the current evidence regarding the association between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and physical activity and further to assess whether the relationship is dose dependent.
METHODS
PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched from 1991 to July 2022 using the following main keywords: adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, physical activity, and risk factors, supplemented with manual searches, secondary citations, and reference searches. The quality of the included literature was evaluated using the Scale for Reporting Observational Studies in Enhanced Epidemiology guidelines.
RESULTS
Eight studies were included in this review, of which six reported an association between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and physical activity levels and two reported no association. One British study reported reduced physical function early in life as a new risk factor for scoliosis onset.
CONCLUSIONS
Physical activity is strongly associated with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Physical activity should be encouraged as it plays an important role in the prevention of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Further research is needed to determine the dose-dependent relationship between physical activity and prevention of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Topics: Humans; Adolescent; Scoliosis; Kyphosis; Exercise; Risk Factors
PubMed: 38115016
DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-07114-1 -
Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark... Nov 2023Obesity is a significant health problem with an increasing incidence, causing a low-grade systemic inflammatory state and being implicated in various chronic diseases.... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Obesity is a significant health problem with an increasing incidence, causing a low-grade systemic inflammatory state and being implicated in various chronic diseases. Moreover, obesity has been shown to cause mitochondrial dysfunction through oxidative stress and inflammation, eventually affecting energy metabolism. However, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can improve mitochondrial efficiency through exercise-induced mitochondrial adaptations. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to examine the potential effects of HIIT on mitochondrial-associated indices in obese and overweight adults.
METHODS
PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched.
RESULTS
Twenty-eight eligible studies were included, involving 530 participants. HIIT was found to significantly improve the activity of citrate synthase (CS), cytochrome C (COX-IV), beta-hydroxyacyl CoA-dehydrogenase (β-HAD), Complexes I-V as well as VO2max in overweight and obese individuals, whereas no significant changes were shown in PGC-1α and SIRT1. Interestingly, subgroup analyses revealed that CS, COX-IV, β-HAD, and Complexes I-V activity exhibited a significant improvement only in the healthy subgroup.
CONCLUSIONS
Overall, HIIT can be utilized to enhance mitochondrial-associated indices in overweight and obese individuals. However, this improvement may be health status dependent.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Overweight; High-Intensity Interval Training; Oxygen Consumption; Obesity; Mitochondria
PubMed: 38062841
DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2811281 -
European Journal of Physical and... Feb 2024Periodic increases in West Nile virus (WNV) infections have been documented. Proper rehabilitative management is essential for these patients, who may experience...
INTRODUCTION
Periodic increases in West Nile virus (WNV) infections have been documented. Proper rehabilitative management is essential for these patients, who may experience limitations in daily activities even after the resolution of the acute infection. Since there are currently no globally accepted guidelines, our aim is to conduct a best-evidence synthesis on rehabilitative management for patients with neuroinvasive WNV.
EVIDENCE ACQUISITION
We screened the literature with two independent researchers conducting searches on PubMed, Embase, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar databases for WNV-related studies in the field of rehabilitation. Suitable studies were identified and selected through a rigorous process. The review includes original research articles published up to August 15, 2023.
EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS
Despite the potential for bias in the studies, the literature suggests that a comprehensive and interdisciplinary rehabilitation program, which includes physical therapy with neuromotor and respiratory interventions, occupational therapy, neurocognitive interventions, and speech therapy for dysphagia and communication issues, can lead to functional improvement in WNV patients. This program should be tailored to address each patient's specific challenges, and the duration of the rehabilitation program may vary depending on the individual patient's needs.
CONCLUSIONS
Even if additional research with larger cohorts and higher evidence levels is needed for a comprehensive understanding of WNV patient rehabilitation, an early and comprehensive rehabilitation approach addressing respiratory, neuromuscular, and cognitive aspects appears effective for WNV patient recovery.
Topics: Humans; West Nile virus; West Nile Fever; Physical Therapy Modalities; Occupational Therapy; Speech Therapy
PubMed: 38059575
DOI: 10.23736/S1973-9087.23.07880-2 -
Medicine Dec 2023This study examined the effects of systemic vibration exercises on cerebral palsy patients. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
This study examined the effects of systemic vibration exercises on cerebral palsy patients.
METHODS
Literature published in Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane library, Embase, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and PubMed was reviewed. A total of 2978 studies were initially retrieved. After further reading of the full texts 17 articles were finally included. A quality assessment of the included studies was conducted using the risk of bias (RoB) 2.0, and the Funnel plot and the Egger test were conducted to confirm the publication bias. Subgroup analysis was carried out according to the dependent variables, the international classification of functioning, disability, and health (ICF), frequency, treatment period and age.
RESULTS
The overall effect size of homogeneity was 0.474 (CI = 0.148-0.801). The analysis of the dependent variables showed the following order of the effect size: balance, muscle strength, spasticity, bone density, range of motion of the joint, gait function, and motor function. In the ICF classification, the effect size was observed to follow the order of body structure and function, activity, and participation. The effect size in the intervention according to the treatment period showed the following order: 7 to 12 weeks, 1 to 6 weeks, and 14 to 24 weeks. The age-dependent classification showed the following order in the effect size: school age, adolescent and adult, and infant and school age.
CONCLUSIONS
Systemic vibration is the most effective intervention to improve the balance and gait in patients with cerebral palsy and improve the body structure and function according to the ICF.
Topics: Adult; Adolescent; Humans; Cerebral Palsy; Vibration; Exercise Therapy; Physical Therapy Modalities; Exercise
PubMed: 38050249
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000036441 -
Nutricion Hospitalaria Nov 2023endometriosis is a hormone-dependent disorder characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue in extrauterine sites, which can trigger a chronic inflammatory...
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
endometriosis is a hormone-dependent disorder characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue in extrauterine sites, which can trigger a chronic inflammatory reaction. This disease mainly affects women of childbearing age and can have a negative impact on their physical, mental and social well-being. There are eating patterns considered as anti-inflammatory, such as the Mediterranean diet, which could help in the prevention and treatment of endometriosis. The objective of this review was to know the relationship between the consumption of different food groups and the prevention of endometriosis.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
a systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA methodology. PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases were consulted. Studies published between 2013 and 2023 were selected, accessible in full text, written in English and Spanish and including a sample of women with endometriosis and/or healthy women, in addition to evaluating the relationship between diet and endometriosis. Unrelated articles, systematic reviews or meta-analyses, pilot studies and studies conducted in animals were excluded.
RESULTS
a total of ten studies were included. The consumption of fruits, vegetables (not cruciferous), dairy products, fish, potatoes, legumes, vitamins (A, C, D and B12), monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids and minerals (calcium, potassium and magnesium) seems to reduce the risk of endometriosis.
CONCLUSIONS
further studies investigating the relationship between consumption of different food groups and risk of endometriosis are needed.
PubMed: 38047410
DOI: 10.20960/nh.04909 -
Brain & NeuroRehabilitation Nov 2023Mental practice (MP), the cognitive rehearsal of physical activities without overt movements, has recently emerged as a promising rehabilitation method for patients with...
Mental practice (MP), the cognitive rehearsal of physical activities without overt movements, has recently emerged as a promising rehabilitation method for patients with stroke. This paper presents a systematic review and meta-analysis critically evaluating the existing evidence to offer a comprehensive estimate of the overall effect of MP on motor function in stroke patients. A systematic search of 3 international databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library) was conducted for randomized controlled trials. We finally selected 31 randomized clinical trials and conducted meta-analysis to determine the effectiveness of MP on motor recovery of upper extremity, upper extremity function, activities of daily living, and gait velocity in stroke patients. The results of the systematic reviews showed that MP combined with conventional therapy has a positive impact on improving upper extremity motor function, with a moderate quality of evidence. However, the beneficial effect of MP on gait velocity was not demonstrated. It is recommended to treat with MP in addition to conventional rehabilitation therapy to improve the motor outcome of stroke depending on the patient's condition (Recommendation level: Conditional Recommend Evidence certainty: Moderate).
PubMed: 38047096
DOI: 10.12786/bn.2023.16.e31 -
PloS One 2023The importance of leptin in controlling body mass has recently gained more attention. Its levels are directly associated with the amount of fat mass, but not necessarily... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
The importance of leptin in controlling body mass has recently gained more attention. Its levels are directly associated with the amount of fat mass, but not necessarily dependent on it. Exercise has great potential in reducing leptin levels, however the response of exercise to this cytokine is still not well understood.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of the review was to analyze the effects of physical exercise on plasma leptin concentration, either acutely (post-exercise/training session) and/or after a training period (short- or long-term), as well as to investigate the existence of possible moderating variables.
METHODS
The studies included in this systematic review were published between 2005 and May 2023. Only peer-reviewed studies, available in English, performed with humans that evaluated the effects of any form of exercise on leptin levels were included. The search was conducted on May 03, 2023, in Embase (Elsevier), MEDLINE via PubMed®, and Web of Science (Core collection). The risk of bias in the included trials was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database tool, considering 11 questions regarding the methodology of each study with 10 questions being scored. The data (n, mean, and standard deviation) were extracted from included studies to perform random effects meta-analyses using standardized mean difference between the pre- and post-intervention effects.
RESULTS
Twenty-five studies (acute effect: 262 subjects; short- and long-term effect: 377 subjects) were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Short- and long-term physical exercise and caloric restriction plus exercise reduce plasma leptin levels, presenting statistically significant differences (p<0.001); as well as acute effect (p = 0.035), however the latter result was influenced by the pre-exercise meal as shown in the subgroup analysis. In this meta-analysis the effect of moderating factors on leptin reduction, not addressed by past reviews, is verified, such as the relationship with caloric restriction, exercise intensity and pre-exercise meal on acute responses.
CONCLUSION
Both acute and chronic exercise reduce leptin levels, yet the acute effect is dependent on the pre-exercise meal. In addition to having a long-term reduction in leptin levels, the minimum amount of weekly exercise to have a significant reduction in plasma leptin is 180 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise and 120 minutes of high-intensity exercise.
Topics: Humans; Caloric Restriction; Leptin; Exercise; Fasting
PubMed: 38015889
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288730 -
Nutrients Nov 2023In the pursuit of enhanced athletic prowess in different disciplines, athletes constantly look for strategies to increase their physical performance, encompassing... (Review)
Review
In the pursuit of enhanced athletic prowess in different disciplines, athletes constantly look for strategies to increase their physical performance, encompassing technical skills and dietary components, which inevitably, in most cases, include the incorporation of sports supplements. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of athletes using ergogenic aids. In this context, scientific evidence must play a prominent role in either endorsing or warning against the use of these products, ensuring the preservation of health while promoting the theoretically established positive benefits. In this vein, beetroot juice (BJ) stands out as a key supplement as an ergogenic aid to improve sports performance, given its demonstrated influence on both aerobic and anaerobic exercise. However, despite widespread global demand, there remains a lack of understanding regarding the potential synergistic effects of combining BJ with other supplements. Consequently, our study aims to determine whether the combination of BJ with another nutritional supplement can enhance its beneficial effects and, therefore, optimize physical performance in humans. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in two major databases-Web of Science and PubMed-from 1 January 2018 to 29 January 2023, using specific keywords. After the exclusion criteria, six articles were selected for analysis. Therefore, our study shows that the effectiveness of combining BJ with another supplement mainly depends on the duration of the chronic intervention, which is where the greatest benefits have been observed.
Topics: Humans; Athletic Performance; Dietary Supplements; Diet
PubMed: 38004231
DOI: 10.3390/nu15224838