bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fecal microbiome as determinant of the effect of diet on colorectal cancer risk: comparison of meat-based versus pesco-vegetarian diets (the MeaTIc study)
Authors: Sofi Francesco , Dinu Monica , Pagliai Giuditta , Pierre Fabrice , Gueraud Francoise , Bowman Jildau , Gerard Philippe , Longo Vincenzo , Giovannelli Lisa , Caderni Giovanna , de Filippo Carlotta
Published: December 2019

Background

Convincing evidence suggests that the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increased by the typical Western diet characterized by high consumption of red and processed meat. In addition, some epidemiological studies suggest a reduction in the risk of CRC associated with fish consumption. The role of the gut microbiome in this diet-associated risk is not well understood.

Methods/design

This is a randomized parallel open clinical trial comprising a total of 150 clinically healthy subjects randomly assigned to three groups: a meat-based diet of which 4 portions per week are red meat (1 portion = 150 g), 3 portions per week are processed meat (1 portion = 50 g), and 1 portion per week is poultry (1 portion = 150 g), for a total amount of 900 g per week of meat and derivatives; a meat-based diet supplemented with alpha-tocopherol; and a pesco-vegetarian diet excluding fresh and processed meat and poultry, but which includes 3 portions per week of fish for a total amount of 450 g per week. Each intervention will last 3 months. The three diets will be isocaloric and of three different sizes according to specific energy requirements. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, and blood and fecal samples will be obtained from each participant at the beginning and end of each intervention phase. The measure of the primary outcome will be the change from baseline in DNA damage induced by fecal water using the comet assay in a cellular model. Secondary outcome measures will be changes in the profile of fecal microbiomes, global fecal and urinary peroxidation markers, and neoplastic biomarkers.

Discussion

Although epidemiological data support the promoting role of meat and the possible protective role of fish in colon carcinogenesis, no study has directly compared dietary profiles characterized by the presence of these two food groups and the role of the gut microbiome in these diet-associated CRC risks. This study will test the effect of these dietary profiles on validated CRC risk biomarkers.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03416777. Registered on 3 May 2018.
Short or Long Antibiotic Regimes in Orthopaedics (SOLARIO): a randomised controlled open-label non-inferiority trial of duration of systemic antibiotics in adults with orthopaedic infection treated operatively with local antibiotic therapy
Authors: Dudareva Maria , Kümin Michelle , Vach Werner , Kaier Klaus , Ferguson Jamie , McNally Martin , Scarborough Matthew
Published: December 2019

Background

Orthopaedic infections, such as osteomyelitis, diabetic foot infection and prosthetic joint infection, are most commonly treated by a combination of surgical debridement and a prolonged course of systemic antibiotics, usually for at least 4–6 weeks. Use of local antibiotics, implanted directly into the site of infection at the time of surgery, may improve antibiotic delivery and allow us to shorten the duration of systemic antibiotic therapy, thereby limiting the frequency of side effects, cost and selection pressure for antimicrobial resistance.

Methods

SOLARIO is a multicentre open-label randomised controlled non-inferiority trial comparing short and long systemic antibiotic therapy alongside local antibiotic therapy. Adult patients with orthopaedic infection, who have given informed consent, will be eligible to participate in the study provided that no micro-organisms identified from deep tissue samples are resistant to locally implanted antibiotics. Participants will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive either a short course (≤ 7 days) or currently recommended long course (≥ 4 weeks) of systemic antibiotics. The primary outcome will be treatment failure by 12 months after surgery, as ascertained by an independent Endpoint Committee blinded to treatment allocation. An absolute non-inferiority margin of 10% will be used for both per-protocol and intention-to-treat populations. Secondary outcomes will include probable and definite treatment failure, serious adverse events, treatment side effects, quality of life scores and cost analysis.

Discussion

This study aims to assess a treatment strategy that may enable the reduction of systemic antibiotic use for patients with orthopaedic infection. If this strategy is non-inferior, this will be to the advantage of patients and contribute to antimicrobial stewardship.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov,NCT03806166. Registered on 11 November 2019.
Cognitive-behavioral intervention via interactive multimedia online video game for active aging: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vázquez Fernando L. , Torres Ángela J. , Otero Patricia , Blanco Vanessa , López Lara , García-Casal Antonio , Arrojo Manuel
Published: December 2019

Background

Due to the progressive aging of the population, programs to promote active aging have been recommended. However, older adults have difficulty accessing them. Interventions administered through online video games may increase their accessibility, and complementing these with a smartphone app will likely increase adherence and allow for ongoing professional monitoring. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a cognitive-behavioral intervention for active aging administered through an online interactive multimedia video game that includes a smartphone app companion. The secondary objectives are to analyze the moderators and mediators of the change in the outcome variables and to evaluate the adherence to the intervention.

Methods/design

A randomized controlled clinical trial will be conducted. Adults 45 years and older will be randomly assigned to a cognitive-behavioral intervention administered through an online multimedia video game that includes a smartphone app companion or to a control group that will receive online information on active aging (274 participants per group). The intervention will be administered in eight weekly 45-min modules. An investigator-blinded evaluation will be conducted using online self-administered tests at baseline, post-intervention, and 6- and 12-month follow-ups. The primary outcome will be mental health status as evaluated using the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) at post-intervention. Secondary outcomes will be emotional well-being, depressive symptoms, reinforcement, negative thoughts, self-reported memory, cognitive task performance, sleep hygiene behaviors, physical activity, eating habits, body mass index, social support, dropout, treatment adherence, and satisfaction with the intervention.

Discussion

If the results are favorable, this study would involve the development of the first evidence-based active aging promotion intervention based on a video game that includes a smartphone app companion, providing evidence on its efficacy, accessibility, and clinical utility.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT03643237. Registered 27 August 2018.
Psychosomatic therapy for patients frequently attending primary care with medically unexplained symptoms, the CORPUS trial: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wortman Margreet S. H. , van der Wouden Johannes C. , Grutters Janneke P. C. , Visser Bart , Assendelft Willem J. J. , van der Horst Henriëtte E. , olde Hartman Tim C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) are highly prevalent and pose a burden both on patients and on health care. In a pilot study psychosomatic therapy delivered by specialised therapists for patients with MUS showed promising results with regard to patient’s acceptability, feasibility and effects on symptoms. The aim of this study is to establish whether psychosomatic therapy by specialised psychosomatic exercise therapists is cost- effective in decreasing symptoms and improving functioning in patients who frequently consult their general practitioner (GP) with MUS.

Methods

A randomised effectiveness trial with an economic evaluation in primary care with 158 patients aged 18 years and older who are frequently consulting their GP with MUS. Patients will be assigned to psychosomatic therapy in addition to usual care or usual care only. Psychosomatic therapy is a multi-component and tailored intervention, aiming to empower patients by applying psycho-education, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, cognitive approaches and/or graded activity. Patients assigned to the psychosomatic therapy receive 6 to 12 sessions of psychosomatic therapy, of 30–45 min each, delivered by a specialised exercise or physical therapist.

Primary outcome measure is patient-specific functioning and disability, measured with the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS). Secondary outcome measures are symptom severity, consultation frequency and referrals to secondary care, patient satisfaction, quality of life and costs. Assessments will be carried out at baseline, and after 4 and 12 months.

An economic evaluation alongside the trial will be conducted from a societal perspective, with quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) as outcome measure. Furthermore, a mixed-methods process evaluation will be conducted.

Discussion

We expect that psychosomatic therapy in primary care for patients who frequently attend the GP for MUS will improve symptoms and daily functioning and disability, while reducing consultation frequency and referrals to secondary care. We expect that the psychosomatic therapy provides value for money for patients with MUS.

Trial registration

Netherlands Trial Register, ID: NL7157 (NTR7356). Registered 13 July 2018.
Long non-coding XIST raises methylation of TIMP-3 promoter to regulate collagen degradation in osteoarthritic chondrocytes after tibial plateau fracture
Authors: Chen Hongwei , Yang Shengdi , Shao Ruyi
Published: December 2019

Background

Hypermethylation of gene promoters has been regarded as an epigenetic regulator for gene inactivation in the development of several diseases. In the current study, we aimed to explore how long noncoding RNA X-inactive specific transcript (lncRNA XIST) function in collagen degradation in chondrocytes of osteoarthritis (OA) after tibial plateau fracture by regulating tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP-3) promoter methylation.

Methods

In silico analysis was used to screen differentially expressed lncRNAs in cartilage tissues of OA. Chondrocytes were then successfully isolated from normal and OA cartilage tissues and identified, with the expressions of lncRNA XIST and TIMP-3 examined. The methylation levels of TIMP-3 promoter were determined by MS-PCR. The binding of lncRNA XIST to DNA methyltransferase and the binding of TIMP-3 promoter to DNA methyltransferase were determined by a series of experiments, including RIP, RNA pull-down, and ChIP assays.

Results

The differentially expressed lncRNA XIST was determined in OA. In addition, cartilage tissues of OA showed upregulation of lncRNA XIST and downregulation of TIMP-3. LncRNA XIST was primarily localized in the nucleus and was capable of binding to the promoter of TIMP-3. The silencing of lncRNA XIST decreased the methylation levels of TIMP-3 promoter and increased the expressions of TIMP-3, which consequently inhibited collagen degradation in OA chondrocytes. Furthermore, TIMP-3 over-expression reversed the effect of lncRNA XIST on collagen degradation in OA chondrocytes.

Conclusion

Collectively, lncRNA XIST raises collagen degradation in OA chondrocytes after tibial plateau fracture by accelerating the methylation of TIMP-3 promoter by recruiting DNA methyltransferase.
Upadacitinib improves patient-reported outcomes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and inadequate response to conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs: results from SELECT-NEXT
Authors: Strand Vibeke , Pope Janet , Tundia Namita , Friedman Alan , Camp Heidi S. , Pangan Aileen , Ganguli Arijit , Fuldeore Mahesh , Goldschmidt Debbie , Schiff Michael
Published: December 2019

Background

To evaluate the effect of upadacitinib on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in patients with RA who had an inadequate response to csDMARDs.

Methods

Patients in SELECT-NEXT, a randomised controlled trial, were on a background of csDMARDs and received upadacitinib 15 mg and 30 mg or placebo daily for 12 weeks. PROs included Patient Global Assessment of Disease Activity (PtGA), pain, Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F), duration and severity of morning (AM) joint stiffness, Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), and Work Instability Scale for RA (RA-WIS). Least squares mean (LSM) changes were based on mixed-effect repeated measure models. Percentages of patients reporting improvements ≥ minimum clinically important differences (MCIDs) and scores ≥ normative values and number needed to treat (NNT) were determined; group comparisons used chi-square tests.

Results

Data from 661 patients were analysed. Compared with placebo, patients receiving upadacitinib reported statistically significant improvements (both doses, P < 0.05) in PtGA, pain, HAQ-DI, FACIT-F, duration and severity of AM stiffness, SF-36 (PCS and 6/8 domains), and RA-WIS at week 12. Significantly, more upadacitinib-treated patients (both doses, P < 0.05) reported improvements ≥ MCID in PtGA, pain, HAQ-DI, FACIT-F, AM stiffness, SF-36 (PCS and 4 or 7/8 domains), and RA-WIS and scores ≥ normative values in HAQ-DI, FACIT-F, and SF-36 (PCS and 4 or 5/8 domains). For most PROs, the incremental NNT with upadacitinib to report clinically meaningful improvement from baseline ranged from 4 to 8 patients.

Conclusions

Upadacitinib 15 mg or 30 mg daily for 12 weeks resulted in significant and clinically meaningful improvements in global disease activity, pain, physical function, fatigue, duration and severity of AM stiffness, HRQOL, and work instability among csDMARD-IR patients with RA.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02675426. Retrospectively registered 5 February 2016.
Standardization of the Computerized Battery for Neuropsychological Evaluation of Children (BENCI) in an urban setting, in Kenya: a study protocol
Authors: Maina Rachel Wanjiru , Abubakar Amina , Miguel Perez-Garcia , Van De Vijver Fons J. R. , Kumar Manasi
Published: December 2019

Objective

In sub Saharan Africa one of the key challenges in assessment using neuropsychological tools has been the lack of adequately validated and easily implementable measures. This study will translate into English, adapt and standardize the Computerized Battery for Neuropsychological Evaluation of Children (BENCI). The BENCI battery will be adapted using back-translation design, comprehensive cultural adaptation and standardized in a case–control study involving two groups of children: HIV infected and HIV unexposed, uninfected children. The content adaptation will be iteratively carried out using knowledge of English and feedback from pilot testing with children. The proposed study will first involve the cultural adaptation of the BENCI. It will then recruit 544 children aged 8–11 years with half of them being HIV+, while the other half will be HIV unexposed-uninfected. Test–retest reliability will be analyzed using Pearson’s correlation while ANOVA and correlational analyses will be used to calculate discriminant, convergent and construct validity.

Results

This study will result in an open access adequately adapted and standardized measure of neuropsychological functioning for use with children in East Africa. The protocol paper provides an opportunity to share the planned methods and approaches.
Safe regions of miniscrew implantation for distalization of mandibular dentition with CBCT
Authors: Liu Haibo , Wu Xiaoxue , Tan Jun , Li Xiao
Published: December 2019

Background

To assess the anatomy of the mandibular buccal shelf (MBS) with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to identify the region of miniscrew implantation for the distalization of mandibular dentition.

Materials and methods

The MBS was assessed in 80 patients at four regions as follows: (i) between the buccal root of the mandibular second premolar and the mesiobuccal root of the first molar (L5b–L6mb), (ii) between the mesiodistal root of the first molar (L6mb–L6db), (iii) between the distobuccal root of the first molar and the mesiobuccal root of the second molar (L6db–L7mb), and (iv) between the mesiodistal roots of the second molar (L7mb–L7db). The buccal alveolar bone thickness, the narrowest inter-radicular space at the buccal side of the roots, and the distance between the implantation site and the mandibular neural tube were measured at horizontal planes of 3, 5, 7, and 9 mm from the alveolar crest.

Results

The buccal alveolar bone thickness increased from the premolar to the molar and from the crest edge to the mandibular roots. The L7mb–L7dbregion had the thickest buccal alveolar bone of 7.61 mm at a plane of 9 mm. The buccal inter-radicular spaces were smallest in the L7mb–L7dbregion and greatest in the L6db–L7mbregion. The distances from the implantation site to the mandibular neural tube at planes of 3, 5, 7, and 9 mm were all > 13 mm from the L6 region to the L7 region.

Conclusions

The L6db–L7mbregion should be the first choice for miniscrew implantation in the MBS for the distalization of mandibular dentition.
Evaluation of awarding badges on Student’s engagement in Gamified e-learning systems
Authors: Imran Hazra
Published: December 2019

Gamification has been gaining increasing acceptability in recent times in educational and commercially related activities, as a tool that encourages and improves the motivation of digital native learners. Since learners can easily engage, educationists have explored gamification as a tool for remediation of engagement, motivation, and collaboration. However, the literature showed that the structural and contextual deployment of game elements is defined only partially in practice. Subsequently, gamification success and failure factors should be explored to identify the required enhancement to achieve improved efficiency in current systems. This research extracts the relevant aspects of gamification that need due consideration to make a guided choice through existing theories. This study is based on an online gamified study that uses well-founded concepts in teaching and evaluation of students in a university. Although badges earned and time spent indicated an increase in engagement, the results show that further work needs to be done by incorporating feedback elements, social interaction, and interactive guidance. The underlying impression is that timely, frequent feedback and personalized guidance, avenues for collaboration and interactivity need to be explored towards the better utility of gamification. Therefore, learning culture in the current learner-centered environment should be further studied to infuse better productivity.
An intervention engine design and development based on learning analytics: the intelligent intervention system (In2S)
Authors: Şahin Muhittin , Yurdugül Halil
Published: December 2019

In this study, an intervention engine based on learning analytics was designed and developed. The intervention engine is named the Intelligent Intervention System (In2S). Within the scope of this research; In2S system and its components have been introduced, and the system is evaluated based on learners’ views. In2S includes three types of intervention that are instructional, supportive, and motivational intervention. The instructional intervention was structured based on assessment tasks. The supportive and motivational interventions were structured based on the learning experiences of the learners. Signal lights (red, yellow, and green) are presented to the learners for each assessment task as an instructional intervention. Supportive intervention is presented to the learners via the dashboard. In the context of motivational intervention, elements of gamification as a leader board, badges, and notifications have been used. In order to obtain the learner’s views about the In2S, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the learners who had a previous learning experience with the system. The learning environment was evaluated based on their views. Learners had a nine-week learning experience in the e-learning environment. Then, eight students who used the system most actively and eight students who used the system most passively were selected for focus group interviews.. According to the findings, it was seen that the learners who use the intervention engine indicated that the system is useful and want to use it in the context of other courses.
Detection of thioredoxin-1 using ultra-sensitive ELISA with enzyme-encapsulated human serum albumin nanoparticle
Authors: Lee Myeong-Jun , Lee Eun-Sol , Kim Tae-Hwan , Jeon Ju-Won , Kim YongTae , Oh Byung-Keun
Published: December 2019

Many methods for early diagnosis of the disease use biomarker tests, which measure indicators of biological state in body fluids or blood. However, a limitation of these methods is their low sensitivity to biomarkers. In this study, human serum albumin (HSA) based nanoparticles capable of encapsulating excess horseradish peroxidase (HRP) are synthesized and applied to the development of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit with ultra-high sensitivity. The size of the nanoparticles and the amount of encapsulated enzyme are controlled by varying the synthesis conditions of pH and protein concentration, and the surface of the nanoparticles is modified with protein A (proA) to immobilize antibodies to the nanoparticles by self-assembly. Using the synthesized nanoparticles, the biomarker of breast cancer, thioredoxin-1, can be measured in the range of 10 fM to 100 pM by direct sandwich ELISA, which is 105 times more sensitive than conventional methods.
Sex-based differences in the prevalence of acute mountain sickness: a meta-analysis
Authors: Hou Yun-Peng , Wu Jia-Lin , Tan Chao , Chen Yu , Guo Rui , Luo Yong-Jun
Published: December 2019

Background

When lowlanders rapidly ascend to altitudes > 2500 m, they may develop acute mountain sickness (AMS). The individual susceptibility, ascending velocity, time spent at altitude, activity levels and altitude reached are considered risk factors for AMS. However, it is not clear whether sex is a risk factor. The results have been inconclusive. We conducted a meta-analysis to test whether there were sex-based differences in the prevalence of AMS using Lake Louise Scoring System.

Methods

Systematic searches were performed in August 2019 in EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science for prospective studies with AMS data for men and women. The titles and abstracts were independently checked in the primary screening step, and the selected full-text articles were independently assessed in the secondary screening step by the two authors (YPH and JLW) based on pre-defined inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was performed using by the STATA 14.1 software program. A random-effects model was employed.

Results

Eighteen eligible prospective studies were included. A total of 7669 participants (2639 [34.4%] women) were tested. The results showed that there was a statistically significant higher prevalence rate of AMS in women than in men (RR = 1.24, 95%CI 1.09–1.41), regardless of age or race. Howerver, the heterogeneity was significant in the analysis (Tau2 = 0.0403, Chi2 = 50.15, df = 17; I2 = 66.1%, P = 0.000), it was main caused by different numbers of subjects among the studies (coefficient = − 2.17, P = 0.049). Besides, the results showed that there was no evidence of significant publication bias in the combined studies on the basis of Egger’s test (bias coefficient = 1.48, P = 0.052) and Begg’s test (P = 0.130).

Conclusions

According to this study, the statistically significant finding emerging from this study was that women have a higher prevalence of AMS. However, the authors could not exclude studies where patients were on acetazolamide. Our analysis provided a direction for future studies of the relationship of sex and the risk of AMS, such as the pathological mechanism and prevention research.
Prevalence and associated factors of adolescent undernutrition in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Berhe Kidanemaryam , Kidanemariam Abadi , Gebremariam Gebrehiwot , Gebremariam Alem
Published: December 2019

Background

In Ethiopia, there are different pocket studies that assessed adolescent undernutrition which came up with inconsistent and inconclusive findings. Therefore, estimating the pooled prevalence and associated factors of the adolescent undernutrition using meta-analysis is crucial in Ethiopia.

Methods

A systematic review of eligible articles was conducted using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive searching of the literature was made in Pub Med, Scopus, Google, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library and CINAHL. The quality of the articles included in the review was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for non-randomized studies in meta-analyses. The pooled prevalence and odds ratio of the associated factors with their 95% confidence interval was computed using STATA version 14 software.

Results

Twenty-two studies were included in the meta-analysis with a total of 17,854 adolescents. Using the random-effects model analysis, the pooled prevalence of stunting and underweight was 20.7% (95% CI: 16.08, 25.33) and 27.5% (95% CI: 17.9, 57.14), respectively. Rural residence, having family size≥5, households with an unprotected water source for drinking and food-insecure household were significant associated factors for adolescent stunting. Early adolescent age (10–14 years), family size≥5, food-insecure household, lack of latrine, WHO diet diversity score < 4, mother educational status (with no formal education) were significant associated factors for adolescent underweight.

Conclusion

Adolescent undernutrition remains one of the most important public health problems in Ethiopia. Almost a quarter of Ethiopian adolescents were affected by stunting and underweight. Large family size, rural residence and unprotected source of drinking water were the associated factors for adolescent stunting. Similarly, large family size, early age of adolescent, lack of latrine, low dietary diversity score, mother illiteracy, and food insecure household were the associated factors for adolescent underweight. It would be good to give high emphasis on adolescent undernutrition and it is important to address the above mentioned associated factors during adolescent nutritional interventions in Ethiopia.
Diet quality is associated with malnutrition and low calf circumference in Canadian long-term care residents
Authors: Carrier Natalie , Villalon Lita , Lengyel Christina , Slaughter Susan E. , Duizer Lisa , Morrison-Koechl Jill , Keller Heather
Published: December 2019

Background

Older adults living in long-term care (LTC) are nutritionally vulnerable. The purpose of this study was to determine diet quality of Canadian LTC residents and its association with malnutrition and low calf circumference.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was undertaken in 32 LTC homes across four Canadian provinces. Nutrient adequacy ratios (NARs) were calculated for seventeen nutrients; mean adequacy ratio (MAR) was calculated to describe overall diet quality. Malnutrition risk was assessed with the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) and diagnosis of protein/energy malnutrition with the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA). Calf circumference (CC) was also assessed. Linear and logistic regressions for these outcomes with diet quality as the predictor were conducted adjusting for covariates.

Results

Average MNA-SF score was 10.7 ± 2.5. Residents (43.5%) had mild/moderate to severe malnutrition based on the PG-SGA and 32.6% had a CC of < 31 cm. Mean MAR score was 0.79 ± 0.09 with significant differences between those requiring eating assistance (0.77 ± 0.11) and those that did not require assistance (0.80 ± 0.07) (p < .05). MAR score was significantly associated with malnutrition in fully adjusted models: MNA-SF scores [β = 5.34, 95% Confidence interval (CI) (2.81, 7.85)] and PG-SGA [Odds ratio (OR) = 0.49, 95% CI (0.38, 0.64)]. Those who had better diet quality were more likely to be well nourished or not at risk. Although several individual nutrients were associated with low CC (< 31 cm), there was no association between overall diet quality (MAR) and low CC.

Conclusions

Diet quality is associated with malnutrition and individual nutrients (NARs) with a low CC. In addition to calories and protein, nutrient dense diets that promote adequate micronutrient intake are required in LTC.
The Biomechanics and Applications of Strongman Exercises: a Systematic Review
Authors: Hindle Benjamin R. , Lorimer Anna , Winwood Paul , Keogh Justin W. L.
Published: December 2019

Background

The sport of strongman is becoming increasingly popular, catering for females, lightweight, and Masters competitors, with strongman exercises also being used by strength and conditioning coaches for a range of athletic groups. Thus, a systematic review was conducted to examine researchers’ current understanding of the biomechanics of strongman exercises, with a view to improve strongman athlete performance, provide biomechanical evidence supporting the transferability of strongman exercises to strength and conditioning/rehabilitation programs, and identify gaps in the current knowledge of the biomechanics of strongman exercises.

Methods

A two-level search term strategy was used to search five databases for studies relevant to strongman exercises and biomechanics.

Results

Eleven articles adherent to the inclusion criteria were returned from the search. The studies provided preliminary biomechanical analysis of various strongman exercises including the key biomechanical performance determinants of the farmer’s walk, heavy sled pull, and tire flip. Higher performing athletes in the farmer’s walk and heavy sled pull were characterized by a greater stride length and stride rate and reduced ground contact time, while higher performing athletes in the tire flip were characterized by a reduced second pull phase time when compared with lower performing athletes. Qualitative comparison of carrying/walking, pulling and static lifting strongman, traditional weight training exercises (TWTE), and common everyday activities (CEA), like loaded carriage and resisted sprinting, were discussed to further researchers’ understanding of the determinants of various strongman exercises and their applications to strength and conditioning practice. A lack of basic quantitative biomechanical data of the yoke walk, unilateral load carriage, vehicle pull, atlas stone lift and tire flip, and biomechanical performance determinants of the log lift were identified.

Conclusions

This review has demonstrated the likely applicability and benefit of current and future strongman exercise biomechanics research to strongman athletes and coaches, strength and conditioning coaches considering using strongman exercises in a training program, and tactical operators (e.g., military, army) and other manual labor occupations. Future research may provide a greater understanding of the biomechanical determinants of performance, potential training adaptations, and risks expected when performing and/or incorporating strongman exercises into strength and conditioning or injury rehabilitation programs.
What Goliaths and Davids among Swiss firms tell us about expected returns on Swiss asset markets
Authors: Haab David R. , Nitschka Thomas
Published: December 2019

Motivated by recent US evidence, we evaluate the predictive power of changes in the weight of large firms in the aggregate stock market (“Goliath vs David” (GVD)) for Swiss stock market returns and bond market returns. Previous research suggests that the asset return dynamics in the US and Switzerland differ markedly. Forecasting Swiss asset returns hence constitutes a challenging “out-of-sample” test for GVD. Over the sample period from January 1999 to December 2017, we find that the Swiss version of GVD exhibits predictive power for Swiss stock and bond market returns even in the presence of global predictors. However, Swiss bond market returns are best predicted by the US term spread.
Outcomes of patients with continuous flow left ventricular assist device undergoing emergency endovascular treatment for atraumatic bleeding
Authors: Bernardinello Valentina , Barbiero Giulio , Battistel Michele , Dengo Caterina , Stramare Roberto , Folino Giulio , Bejko Jonida , Carrozzini Massimiliano , Tarzia Vincenzo , Gerosa Gino , Bottio Tomaso
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Severe spontaneous bleeding is a significant complication in patients with continuous flow left ventricular assist devices; there is little evidence on endovascular treatment to support its use.

Materials and methods

We observed seven patients (five men, two women, age 43–67 years) with continuous flow left ventricular assist devices on antiaggregant/coagulant therapy, admitted to our hospital for uncorrectable symptomatic anemia; CT-angiography and diagnostic angiography confirmed the presence of atraumatic arterious bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract (six patients), from the intercostal artery and from the bronchial tree (one patient).

Results

All patients where successfully treated via an endovascular approach with superselective embolization of the involved arterial branches with coils and particles.

Conclusion

Spontaneous atraumatic bleeding is a frequent complication in patients with continuous flow left ventricular assist devices; endovascular treatment represents a promising alternative to the surgical approach as it is less invasive, easily repeatable and associated to a reduced procedural risk.
Pentraxin-3 in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its affection by concomitant chronic hepatitis C infection
Authors: Makhlouf Mohamed , Saleh Shereen , Rushdy Marwa , Abdelhakam Sara , Abd-Elghani Ehab
Published: December 2019

Background

Elevated pentraxin-3 (PTX3) is related to liver pathologies such as infections, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and tumors. Aim of this study is to evaluate serum PTX3 levels in NAFLD and its affection by concomitant chronic hepatitis C viral infection (HCV). Seventy subjects were included and divided into 3 groups. Group I included 25 patients with NAFLD. Group II included 25 patients with NAFLD and chronic HCV. Group III included 20 controls. Chronic hepatitis C was diagnosed using quantitative PCR. Plasma pentraxin-3 was measured using ELISA.

Results

Plasma PTX3 was significantly high in group Ι and group ΙΙ, when compared to controls. There was non-significant difference between groups Ι and ΙΙ as regard PTX3 level. Higher PTX3 levels were detected in relation to metabolic syndrome. Cut-off value of PTX3 ≥ 1.8 was the best to predict metabolic syndrome with 91.4% sensitivity, 60.0% specificity, 65.7% PPV, and 56.7% NPV.

Conclusion

Serum PTX level in patients with concomitant NAFLD and HCV infection apparently reflects inflammatory response due to changes in metabolic profile, rather than that caused by infection itself, making PTX possibly useful in identifying those at risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
Heritability of Cortisol Production and Metabolism Throughout Adolescence
Authors: van Keulen Britt J , Dolan Conor V , Andrew Ruth , Walker Brian R , Hulshoff Pol Hilleke E , Boomsma Dorret I , Rotteveel Joost , Finken Martijn J J
Published: December 2019

Context

Inter-individual differences in cortisol production and metabolism emerge with age and may be explained by genetic factors.

Objective

To estimate the relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to inter-individual differences in cortisol production and metabolism throughout adolescence.

Design

Prospective follow-up study of twins.

Setting

Nationwide register.

Participants

218 mono- and dizygotic twins (N = 109 pairs) born between 1995 amd 1996, recruited from the Netherlands Twin Register. Cortisol metabolites were determined in 213, 169, and 160 urine samples at the ages of 9, 12, and 17, respectively.

Main outcome measures

The total contribution of genetic factors (broad-sense heritability) and shared and unshared environmental influences to inter-individual differences in cortisol production and activities of 5α-reductase, 5β-reductase, and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases and cytochrome P450 3A4.

Results

For cortisol production rate at the ages of 9, 12, and 17, broad-sense heritability was estimated as 42%, 30%, and 0%, respectively, and the remainder of the variance was explained by unshared environmental factors. For cortisol metabolism indices, the following heritability was observed: for the A-ring reductases (5α-and 5β-reductases), broad-sense heritability increased with age (to >50%), while for the other indices (renal 11β-HSD2, global 11β-HSD, and CYP3A4), the contribution of genetic factors was highest (68%, 18%, and 67%, respectively) at age 12.

Conclusions

The contribution of genetic factors to inter-individual differences in cortisol production decreased between 12 and 17y, indicative of a predominant role of individual circumstances. For cortisol metabolism, distinct patterns of genetic and environmental influences were observed, with heritability that either increased with age or peaked at age 12y.
СОВРЕМЕННОЕ ОБУЧЕНИЕ: ЭЛЕКТРОННОЕ, СМЕШАННОЕ ОБУЧЕНИЕ НА ПРИМЕРЕ ДИСЦИПЛИНЫ «ФИНАНСОВАЯ МАТЕМАТИКА»
Authors: Agapova Elena Grigoryevna , Kononovich Pavel Alekseevich
Published: December 2019

Для того чтобы стать моделью «Цифрового университета», наряду с информационной системой управления университетом, ключевыми компетенциями цифровой экономики и управлением учебным процессом на базе индивидуальной образовательной траектории требуется разрабатывать и поддерживать онлайн-обучение. Если относительно гуманитарных дисциплин вопросов создания онлайн-курсов не имеется, то с точки зрения точных дисциплин, а также технических направлений подготовки этот вопрос является спорным: как и что можно предложить слушателям? Авторы статьи на примере электронно-учебного курса «Финансовая математика» рассматривают возможность смешанного обучения на кафедре «Прикладная математика» Тихоокеанского государственного университета (ТОГУ, г. Хабаровск).
РАЗВИТИЕ ПРОФЕССИОНАЛЬНОГО ЛИЧНОСТНОГО СМЫСЛА ИЗУЧЕНИЯ ИНОСТРАННОГО ЯЗЫКА БУДУЩИМИ ИНЖЕНЕРАМИ
Authors: Baryshnikova Anna Mikhailovna , Baryshnikova Yulia Viktorovna
Published: December 2019

В данной статье авторы обращаются проблеме развития профессионального личностного смысла при обучении иностранному языку будущих инженеров. Практическая значимость заключается в том, что авторы выявляют средства развития профессионального личностного смысла и приводят примеры заданий, способствующих его развитию.
Introduction of Process Innovations in the Field of Disaster Warnings
Authors: Puchkov V.
Published: December 2019

In the paper are investigated issues related to efficiency improvement of the strategic program of measures for emergencies maintenance and prevention based on integrated implementation of process innovations in the area of population caring for. Has been proposed number of systematic measures on forming the institutional environment for the introduction and development of innovations, including the proposed regulatory changes. Has been paid attention to aspects of financial, economic, organizational and infrastructural support for innovative development in considered area. The need for further lowering of administrative barriers in the public fire supervision system has been noted and substantiated.
Information Support for Management of Dangerous Goods Transport by Road
Authors: Sinitsyn V. , Tatarinov V. , Kirsanov A.
Published: December 2019

In this paper by methods of system analysis has been established a presence of two non-closed systems for dangerous goods transportation, one of which is intended for carriage of dangerous goods by road, the other one — for accident management. It has been established that in a case of accident of the car with dangerous good a part of information needed for decision-making on accident management is unavailable for the second system since only the first system providing the carriage of transporting is endowed with this information. The integration of mentioned systems based on new information and communication technologies provides for the emergence of developed system, eliminates the revealed shortcoming and creates conditions for information support of management.
Justicia como memoria y derecho a la verdad frente a la política de silencio y olvido en El Salvador: Apuntes sobre la percepción de la figura de Óscar Arnulfo Romero y la experiencia de los diálogos intergeneracionales en las parroquias de la Arquidiócesis de San Salvador*
Authors: Olasolo Hector
Published: December 2019

La política de silencio y olvido, que fue adoptada en El Salvador tras la Ley de Amnistía de 1993, ha fomentado el desconocimiento en la sociedad salvadoreña(particularmente en los jóvenes menores de veinticinco años) sobre las causas yconsecuencias del conflicto armado no internacional que tuvo lugar entre 1980y 1992, y sobre las graves violaciones de Derechos Humanos que ocurrieron en el mismo. Las parroquias de la Iglesia salvadoreña no son ajenas a esta  situación porque, como han puesto de manifiesto los diálogos intergeneracionales promovidos desde la Oficina de Tutela de Derechos Humanos del Arzobispado de San Salvador en julio de 2018, sus integrantes más jóvenes desconocen completamente el grado de persecución al que sus hermanos de comunidad fueron sometidos durante el conflicto armado por las fuerzas militares y policiales. La controversia que ha existido, al menos hasta 2013, entre diversos sectores de la Iglesia salvadoreña sobre la figura de Óscar Arnulfo Romero es fruto de esta situación, que afecta las dimensionesindividual y colectiva del derecho a la verdad, impide la satisfacción de lajusticia entendida como memoria, evita que los graves crímenes internacionalescometidos en El Salvador sean tenidos en cuenta a la hora de construir su memoria histórica, ofrece un caldo de cultivo favorable al revisionismo histórico e impide que se puedan adoptar las medidas necesarias para evitar su repetición. Frente a esta situación, los diálogos intergeneracionales celebrados en 2018 en algunas parroquias de la Arquidiócesis de San Salvador han mostrado su capacidad para exponer y superar el impacto negativo de la política del silencio y el olvido desde las propias comunidades parroquiales afectadas.
Análisis de la Carta de la ONU a la luz de los postulados del texto “Zum ewigen Frieden” de Immanuel Kant. El objetivo de la paz y el mecanismo de la guerra
Authors: Campos Salazar Joe Nayib
Published: December 2019

En el presente ensayo se procede a realizar un análisis de la Carta de las NacionesUnidas, específicamente en relación con el objetivo de mantener la paz y, cómo este mismo documento regula los conflictos que pueden poner en riesgo tal objetivo. El análisis propuesto intentará fusionar las ideas emanadas del texto político de Kant, el cual establece pautas de cómo debe ser un tratado dirigido al establecimiento de la paz perpetua. En la primera sección se analiza el Capítulo I: Propósitos y principios en concordancia con el Capítulo VI: Arreglo pacífico de controversias y con las medidas que se separan del concepto propio de la paz, las cuales se encuentran en el Capítulo VII: Acción en caso de amenazas a la paz, quebrantamientos de la paz o actos de agresión. En la segunda sección se describe el texto kantiano Zum ewigen Frieden y, a la vez, se analizan los artículos del modelo de tratado que se establece. En la última sección se realiza un análisis correlacional entre la Carta de la Naciones Unidas y el modelo kantiano determinando la existencia de una antinomia normativa que implica la imposibilidad material en el cumplimiento del objetivo de mantener la paz.
Trajetórias em transição: a produção de significados de uma migrante venezuelana
Authors: Ataides França Rômulo , Bonaccorsi Barbato Silviane
Published: December 2019

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar a produção de significados em dinâmicas de interpretação de si, a partir da experiência de vida de uma migrante venezuelana. O Brasil passa por uma emergência humanitária recebendo imigrantes venezuelanos que chegam ao país. Em des- locamentos geográficos, o senso de continuidade de si se reorienta e é desafiado por rupturas e transições em que os processos de convencionalização atuam promovendo dinâmicas reflexivas nas inter-historicidades. Realizou-se entrevistas semiestruturadas, mediadas por objeto que foi submetida à análise dialógico-temática. Os resultados indicaram que o jogo polifônico ocorre no embate entre o presente, que interpreta o passado e se regula por possibilidades de um futuro, em que conhecimentos anteriores são utilizados para a obtenção exitosa de novas formas de conhecer e estar, no novo país. Os significados reguladores estão relacionados à possibilidade de ficar no país escolhido e aos sacrifícios que podem ser vencidos com as próprias atuações, em escolhas e buscas por soluções, e pela mediação da família, de instituições que trabalham com migrantes e pela religiosidade.
parents’ philosophical community: when parents go to school!
Authors: Papathanasiou Maria
Published: December 2019

Research seems to be explicit on children’s benefit from parent’s participation in their schooling. The ways, though, parents can be involved are not yet apparent. A variety of educational strategies and programs are being tested globally in order to enhance the collaboration of the school with the family. Through Action Research, the effectiveness of an initiative of cooperation with the parents in a kindergarten school in Athens has been explored, during the School Years 2014-15 and 2015-16. The successful engagement of philosophical practices for the students in previous years exposed the need for adopting the specific tool of Philosophy for Children for the community of parents. Carefully selected stories have been used as a stimulus for raising philosophical questions that were analysed in depth by parents and teachers. The creation of a philosophical community of inquiry with parents within school, revealed a new horizon of communication and cooperation while raising respect and empathy among all participants. This research exhibits that building communities of philosophical inquiry with children and adults likewise, and within the same environment reflects and strengthens dialogue between all parts of the school community triangle (students, teachers, parents) and it therefore seems to be an effective approach to be implemented.
a normative approach to philosophy for children
Authors: Moriyon Felix garcia
Published: December 2019

Rreview of Maughn Rollins Gregory and Megan Jane Laverty, eds.. In Community of Inquiry with Ann Margaret Sharp: Childhood, Philosophy, and Education.  Routledge, 2018, Pp. 264.