Projects

BIBO

The BIBO study is an ongoing, prospective longitudinal project designed to understand how the development of behavioral and physiological regulation, as well as physical health, are influenced by early (prenatal) environmental factors. BIBO stands for the Dutch ‘Basale Invloeden op de Baby Ontwikkeling’, which translates as ‘Basal Influences on the Baby’s Development’. The study began … Continue reading BIBO

BINGO

For the past decades, numerous studies have shown that early life experiences, even during pregnancy, have a tremendous impact on infant and child development. Research and the resulting scientific knowledge in this area are highly relevant, because knowledge on how early experiences shape development can increase the chances of early detection of children who have … Continue reading BINGO

SKIPPY

In studies with preterm infants, research has shown that proximity and close physical contact between the mother and the preterm infant is associated with improved psychological, behavioural, and biological outcomes in the infant as well as improved maternal physical and mental health. Based on these previous findings, proximity and close physical contact may have positive … Continue reading SKIPPY

PIP

Maternal prenatal depressive or anxiety symptoms are associated with adverse maternal and infant health outcomes. With prevalence rates of maternal prenatal depression and anxiety ranging between 10-20%, attempts to identify effective interventions to reduce symptoms are important. There are indications that probiotics can reduce symptoms of maternal postnatal depression or anxiety. Probiotics ingested by the … Continue reading PIP

SPECHT

Preeclampsia is characterized by hypertension with proteinuria which threatens the health of the mother and fetus. The pathogenesis of preeclampsia is only partially understood. Abnormalities in the development of placental vasculature early in pregnancy may result in placental underperfusion which then causes hypertension. However, it is not clear what causes abnormal placentation to develop. It is … Continue reading SPECHT

Jacobs

In childhood, cognitive capacities are essential for learning new skills and participating in formal education. One of the factors that potentially facilitate the development of a child’s cognitive capacities is the bacteria in the intestines. Intestinal bacteria have a central role in our health, but may also modulate brain development a nd functioning. Studies in … Continue reading Jacobs