cometadata/datacite-rtg-text-other-reclassification-records huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between Diet Quality and the Comorbidity of Diabetes in Adults with Heart Failure
Creators: name: Hill, Jessica
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2011

description: Background: Heart failure and diabetes are common coexisting diseases. Elevated levels of glucose in the blood caused by insulin resistance can damage blood vessels and nerves, and eventually lead to heart disease. A poor diet and obesity can also contribute to the progression of diabetes and heart disease.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine if diet and lifestyle factors between adult heart failure patients with and without diabetes who are participating in the EducatioN, and Supportive Partners Improving Self-CaRE (ENSPIRE) study are associated with comorbidities such as diabetes, and if so then how current dietary recommendations in this population should be modified based on diabetes status.
Methods: Using data collected from the EducatioN and Supportive Partners Improving Self-CaRE (ENSPIRE) study from 2006 to 2009 which was a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial, a secondary data analysis was conducted. Daily dietary intake of calories, sodium, carbohydrate, fat, sugar, and fiber was assessed via a 3-day food record. Differences in anthropometric measures, smoking history, education level and health literacy score between the two groups were also assessed. 117 heart failure patients were included in the analysis. Of these, 39% had diabetes.
Statistical analysis: Statistical analyses included the t-test, Chi-square analysis, and Mann Whitney U test used to compare anthropometric data, lifestyle factors, and disease states.
Results: Weight was higher in heart failure patients with vs. without diabetes (104.9 vs. 92.6 kg, respectively; P
Conclusion: Weight was significantly higher in heart failure patients with diabetes and they consumed fewer carbohydrates than their non-diabetic counterparts. We recommend encouraging these individuals to closely monitor their macronutrient intake, specifically limiting fat in the diet. Meeting with a dietitian to ensure adequate nutrient intake is strongly recommended.
The Relationships between Energy Balance Deviations and Adiposity in Children and Adolescents
Creators: name: Delfausse, Laura
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2011

description: Background: Over the past decade obesity has doubled in children aged 6-11 and tripled among adolescents aged 12-19. One trend that has coincided with this increased obesity prevalence is decreased meal frequency, which may impact blood sugar, meal size, cortisol release, insulin release, and appetite controls that include the release of leptin and ghrelin. Ultimately, these changes may result in a simultaneous lowering of the metabolic (i.e., fat-free) mass and a rising of the fat mass. Purpose: To assess food/beverage intake in a way that would determine if large deviations in energy balance (EB) during the day were related to body fat percent (BF%). Methods: Using an IRB-approved protocol, male and female children were assessed using NutriTiming? (NutriTiming LLC, 2011) software, which simultaneously assesses energy intake from consumed foods and beverages and energy expenditure from activities with different intensities. A 24-hour recall questionnaire and interview, with at least one parent present, was used to obtain data, which represented a typical school day. BF% was assessed using an 8-mode bioelectrical impedance segmental body composition analyzer (Tanita, Model BC-418). Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS (ver. 18). Results: A total of 16 children ranging in age from 8-14 years were interviewed. Due to incomplete data on 4 subjects, 12 subjects (6 boys; 6 girls ranging in age from 9-14 years; mean=11.41 ñ 1.5) were included in the data analysis. Energy intakes averaged 1,984 ñ 510 kcal; and energy expenditure averaged 1,689 ñ 351 kcal. Average BF% was 24.3 ñ 4.9. Using Spearman correlation and independent group t-test (with the mean energy balance as the cut-point) traditional end-of-day energy balance (24-hr energy in vs. 24-hr energy out) was not statistically associated with body fat %, and there was no difference in BF% between those above and below the end-of-day EB mean. However, more hours spent in an energy surplus (EB > 0) was significantly associated with lower body fat % (r=-0.914; PP
Determination of Oxidized Lipids in Commonly Consumed Foods and Their Binding Affinity for PPAR?
Creators: name: Skinner, Joanna
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background:  Foods rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are susceptible to oxidation through heating or storage.  Oxidized lipids are known to act as ligands for a transcription factor (PPAR-gamma) that affects adipocyte differentiation and insulin sensitivity. 
Objective:  The purpose of this study was to determine the amounts of oxidation products of a variety of PUFA containing foods over time, and to determine whether extracted fats from these foods act as ligands for PPAR-gamma. 
Method:   To study the effect of room-temperature storage on oxidation, 5 foods (walnuts, sunflower seeds, ground flax, fish oil capsules, and infant formula) were purchased and stored at room temperature for 1, 2, and 3 months.  To determine oxidation levels in fried foods, French fries and chicken nuggets were used.  Fat was extracted from each food and the levels of oxidation products were analyzed by spectrophotometry and kits designed to measure oxidation products.  Using a fluorescence polarization-based ligand screening assay kit, fat extracted from foods was analyzed for its binding affinity for PPAR-gamma. 
Results:  Among foods stored at room temperature, the levels of oxidation products did not change significantly with time.  Most foods exhibited the highest levels of oxidation at the purchase date.  Infant formula and ground flax demonstrated higher levels of oxidation products than did other foods.  In preliminary ligand binding assays, extracted fat from French fries showed the greatest binding affinity for PPAR-gamma; a select few other oils showed slight affinity. 
Discussion:  Surprisingly, storage time did not affect oxidation levels.  The greatest amount of oxidation may occur during pre-purchase storage conditions.  The processing of formula and ground flax may be the cause of the relatively higher oxidation levels in those foods.  The binding affinity for PPAR-gamma demonstrated by French fries needs further investigation. 
Conclusion:  Certain oxidized lipids from foods may act as ligands for PPAR-gamma.  Further research is required not only to determine which component of these PUFA-containing foods activates PPAR-gamma but also to determine whether that component acts as an agonist or antagonist for PPAR-gamma.
Developing lightweight vehicle structures
Creators: name: Kinoshita, Shigeaki
Publisher: name: Swinburne
Year: 2024

description: The work presented here involves the study of aluminium foam-filled tubular structures under three-point bending. Alloy AA 6060 T5 was used for the tube. Commercially available closed-cell aluminium alloy foam, Alporas foam, was used for the filling. Although the aluminium alloy tube selected is not used in the automobile industry, the aim of the research work was to look generically at the effect of the Alporas foam filling on the overall energy and deformation profile of tubular structures under three-point bending. Both experimental and corresponding numerical simulations have been carried out. Tests with indentation speed of up to 50mm/s were carried out using an MTS universal testing machine, while dynamic tests were carried out using a drop hammer test (DHT) system where the experiments are referred to as MTS and DHT experiments, respectively. Focus was placed on the energy absorption of the structure with respect to the travel of the lowest surface, referred to as the intrusion depth'. The index of the energy absorption effciency with respect to the weight and intrusion depth, referred to as performance index', have been introduced and the comparison of the various structures has also been made using this index. Corresponding finite element (FE) models were produced and analysed using the explicit FE analysis software package LS-DYNA. Verification of the model was carried out for both the MTS and DHT experiments. The FE analyses (FEA) were carried out to obtain greater understanding of the experimental results and for parametric studies looking at the effect of foam density, tube wall thickness, foam insert length, foam insert cross-sectional diameter and the tube geometry. Comparison of the behaviour against pseudo-steel tube models was also made. It was found that the strain-rate behaviour of the foam has a beneficial effect of increasing the energy absorption of the overall structure with an increasing indentation speed. However, this effect was found to diminish with increase in the wall thickness of the tube. It was also observed from the FEA that the foam-insert was able to reduce the rate of drop in the performance index allowing the foam-filled tube to perform better than the empty tube counter part at larger bending. Comparison of the foam-filled aluminium tube against the pseudo-boron steel tube using FEA showed that the aluminium foam-filled tube did not experience structural failure, hence showed the possibility of outperforming the higher strength steel at large deformation.
Associations of Serum Vitamin D Concentrations with Dietary Patterns in US Children
Creators: name: Martineau, Bernadette
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background: Contribution of dietary sources to vitamin D status is not clearly known. Some studies have shown that dietary intake of certain vitamin D rich foods had a significant positive influence on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations, whereas other studies have shown no effect. Although sunlight exposure is a major source of circulating serum 25(OH)D, children and adolescents have been advised on the dangers of sun exposure. Diet may therefore be an important contributor of circulating serum 25(OH)D in absence of or reduced sunlight exposure.
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether serum 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with any specific dietary patterns in US children and adolescents using assay-adjusted serum 25(OH)D data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003-2004 and 2005-2006.
Methods: Data from 2 cycles of the NHANES 2003-2004 and 2005-2006 for individuals aged 2 to ó19 y, were used to study the association between dietary patterns and serum 25(OH)D. Dietary patterns were established using factor analysis based on food-frequency questionnaire data. Eigenvalues and Scree plot were used to derive 2 major principal factors. They were labeled as High Fat Low Vegetable (HFLV) and Prudent dietary patterns.
Results: Serum 25(OH)D was significantly lower in HFLV dietary pattern group compared to Prudent dietary pattern group (25.1 vs 27.0 ng/mL; P=0.001). The highest serum 25(OH)D concentrations for all subjects were in the low-intake HFLV group or medium and high-intake Prudent groups (P=0.003 and P=0.012, respectively). In multivariate adjusted analysis, children with higher Prudent dietary contribution scores to overall diet showed a significant positive relation with serum 25(OH)D (?=62.01, P=0.016). When data were stratified by sex, a significant positive relation was observed in girls who consumed the Prudent diet (?=86.34, P=0.014) and a significant negative relation was observed in girls who consumed the HFLV diet (?=-84.32, P=0.022).
Conclusion: Overall, serum 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with Prudent dietary pattern but not with HFLV dietary pattern in US children and adolescents. When stratified by sex, the relation between dietary patterns and serum 25(OH)D was confined to only girls. Children consuming HFLV pattern diet may benefit from vitamin D supplementation and sunlight exposure (outdoor activities), and should be encouraged to consume more vitamin D fortified foods.
Administration of the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale (BPFAS) to Parents of High-Risk Infants: How to Best Identify Those at Risk for Feeding Difficulties
Creators: name: Evans, Monica
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale (BPFAS) in identifying children at risk for feeding difficulties when given to parents by interview versus without assistance. Thirty subjects from Emory Developmental Progress Clinic (Emory DPC) participated in the study and were randomized to receive the BPFAS either by interview or without assistance. Mean BPFAS scores were compared by survey administration method and nutrition referral status for the total cohort as well as by age (1.5 year) and weight status (<25th percentile, 25-75th percentile, >75th percentile) using the t-test. The association between survey administration method as well as nutrition referral status and referral score category (84) was determined using the Chi-square test, as was the relationship between nutrition referral status and the response to each BPFAS question. No difference in mean BPFAS score or referral score category by survey administration method was found in the total cohort. However, a higher BPFAS score was observed for children >1.5 years of age who were referred for nutrition intervention vs. not referred (95.33 vs. 62.5, respectively; p=0.004). There was also a significant association between the number of patients referred for nutrition intervention vs. not referred and referral score (11 vs. 19, respectively; p=0.041). There was no association between responses to individual BPFAS questions and nutrition referral status. In conclusion, evaluation of other feeding assessment surveys or the in-house development of a screening tool may be better alternatives for the Emory DPC.
Ritorno al futuro: memorie, orizzonti e riflessi dell’antropologia - Intervista a Ugo Fabietti
Creators: name: Romaniello, Alfonso
Publisher: name: Dipartimento delle Arti - Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna
Year: 2012

description: Abstract – IT

Più che un’intervista, un incontro/discussione con una delle figure più autorevoli dell’antropologia italiana, il Prof. Ugo Fabietti. Le sue parole, oltre che offrirci notevoli spunti di riflessione su cosa sia e come debba orientarsi oggi l’antropologia, ci accompagnano in un percorso dove riemergono le radici stesse della disciplina: il viaggio, l’incontro con l’alterità culturale, l’epochè, la ricerca sul campo, il relativismo.
Uno sguardo sui fondamenti teorici della disciplina, ma anche sulle sue prospettive di applicazione, sul suo riconoscimento sociale ed istituzionale. Il Professor Fabietti, presentandoci l’antropologia come “un mestiere solitario”, ci racconta con passione la ricchezza e gli strumenti che derivano “dall’incontro con l’altro”, e lo fa in un condensato di teoria ed esperienza…che è poi l’humus della disciplina stessa.

Abstract – FR

Bien plus qu’une interview, c’est une rencontre, une discussion avec une des figures les plus renommées de l’anthropologie italienne: le Professeur Ugo Fabietti. Ses mots, en plus de nous offrir d’innombrables points de réflexion sur ce qu’est et comment devrait évoluer l’anthropologie de nos jours, elles  nous accompagnent dans un parcours ou ressurgissent les racines de cette discipline: le voyage, la rencontre avec la diversité culturelle, l’épochè, la recherche sur le terrain, le relativisme. Ce n’est pas simplement un regard sur les fondements théoriques de la discipline, mais également sur les prospectives d’application, sur sa reconnaissance sociale et institutionnelle. Le Professeur Fabietti, en nous présentant l’anthropologie comme «un travail solitaire», nous raconte avec passion la richesse et les instruments qui dérivent «de la rencontre avec l’autre», il le fait avec brio dans un condensé de théorie et d’expérience…qui est la quintessence de cette même discipline.

Abstract – EN

More than an interview, this is a meeting/discussion with one of the most important figures of Italian anthropology,  Professor  Ugo Fabietti.
His words offer innumerable points of reflection about what anthropology is, and the direction it should take. They also accompany us along a path in which the roots of anthropology themselves re-emerge: travel, encountering cultural otherness, epochè, fieldwork and relativism. He provides a look at the theoretical structure of the discipline and also  its  potential applications, at its social and institutional recognition. Professor Fabietti, presenting anthropology as “solitary knowledge”, details with passion the richness and the instruments deriving “from the meeting with the other”. He presents it in an essence of theory and experience… which is after all the quintessence of anthropology itself.
description: Antropologia e Teatro. Rivista di Studi; N° 2 (2011)
Point-of-Selection Intervention Using a Digital Menu in a Dining Hall for Southeastern College Freshmen
Creators: name: Purinai, Elizabeth
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background: With overweight and obesity rates steadily increasing, methods to reduce these numbers are being explored. Research has found that short-term, point-of-selection interventions are effective in improving the overall eating habits of college students.
Objective: To examine how a point-of-selection intervention at The Freshman Dining Hall at Georgia State University (GSU) impacts student menu selections.
Methods: All subjects used an electronic menu at the entrance of the GSU Freshman dining hall. During the baseline period, students selected the foods that they intended to eat during the meal. During the intervention phase, the menu view included calculated food health scores for each food/beverage item. Upon exiting the dining hall, students entered the foods that they actually consumed.
Participants/setting: The study recruited freshmen students and student athletes who have an unlimited meal plan at the Freshman Dining Hall. Students under the age of 18 were excluded.
Statistical analysis: Frequency analysis was conducted to describe the demographic and anthropometric characteristics of the population. Median entry scores were compared by demographic and anthropometric characteristics using the Independent Samples Median Test. Median health scores were determined at baseline and during the intervention phase for each meal. Median scores were compared using the Wilcoxon sign rank test to determine if there was a difference before and after the intervention. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v18.0. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.
Results: A total of 26 students participated in the study (46.7% female, 26.7% Caucasian). The mean age was 19 + 2.5 years and the mean BMI was 24.2 + 4.8 kg/m2. During the baseline period, the median health scores at breakfast, lunch, and dinner were 55.41 and 76.10 and 77.53, respectively. During the intervention phase, the median entry health score for breakfast and lunch were 68.33 and 73.88, compared to exit scores of 67.24 and 63.24, respectively. No exit menu items were entered for dinner during the intervention. The mean difference between the entry and exit health scores at breakfast was -1.1, while the difference at lunch was 4.54. Neither of the differences was statistically significant.
Conclusion: The digital menu with point-of-selection health scores did not result in consumption of healthier foods, particularly at lunch. Additional point-of-selection nutrition interventions should be examined to determine what type of information is most effective with college students in the all-you-can-eat buffet style college dining hall.
Teatro comunitario in Argentina.  Trasformazione sociale, memoria collettiva e identità.
Creators: name: Russo, Giada
Publisher: name: Dipartimento delle Arti - Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna
Year: 2012

description: Abstract – IT

Questo articolo si basa sui risultati di un'indagine di campo condotta, nell'estate del 2010, a Buenos Aires, culla del Teatro Comunitario. Si tratta di un fenomeno teatrale inedito nel panorama artistico novecentesco, che affonda le sue radici nella metropoli argentina degli anni Ottanta, all'indomani della dittatura militare. La ricerca si pone l'obiettivo di delineare i principi fondanti di questa esperienza e sottolineare i risvolti sociologici e antropologici, legati al tema della memoria e dell'identità del Paese.
Oggetto principale dello studio è il gruppo Catalinas Sur, pioniere del Teatro Comunitario, di cui sono stati analizzati il metodo di lavoro, le dinamiche di gruppo, il processo drammaturgico (attraverso l'analisi dei due spettacoli più emblematici), e la gestione delle risorse economiche. Arricchiscono il lavoro le testimonianze dirette dei protagonisti e le immagini più significative degli spettacoli.
description: Antropologia e Teatro. Rivista di Studi; N° 2 (2011)
“Popular” and “Highbrow” in the theatre. Cultural interaction and osmosis between the genres
Creators: name: Grammatas, Theodore
Publisher: name: Dipartimento delle Arti - Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna
Year: 2013
Subjects: highbrow popular theatre categorization culture

description: Abstract – IT Le categorie di “teatro popolare” e “teatro d'arte” si riferiscono a due ambiti culturali differenti, distinti non soltanto da caratteristiche estetiche di base, ma anche dai loro ruoli e dalle ricadute sociali. Ciascuno comporta specifici riferimenti e tecniche, contesti di spazio e di tempo deputati, strategie di comunicazione sia tra gli artisti, sia tra questi stessi e il pubblico. Ciononostante, malgrado la storica competizione tra cultura bassa e alta, il loro rapporto è sempre stato osmotico e complementare;  reciproche influenze hanno costituito un equilibrio in perenne slittamento, nel teatro (e nella cultura) occidentale sin dalle origini rituali. L'autore presenta alcuni esempi, per convalidare tale approccio come prospettiva metodologica negli studi storiografici.   Abstract – EN Categories such “popular” and “artistic” theatre refer to two different cultural fields, which are distinguished not only by their primary aesthetical features, but also by their social roles as well as consequences. Each one of them involves peculiar techniques and references, setting in space and time and strategies of communication, both among the artists and between them and the audience. Nevertheless, despite an historical competition involving low and highbrow culture, the relationship between these two fields is valued as osmotic and complementary; mutual influences have been constituing an ever-shifing balance in Western theatre (and culture) since its ritual origins. The author eventually exposes some examples in order to validate such approach as a methodologic perspective in Western historical Theatre Studies.
description: Antropologia e Teatro. Rivista di Studi; N° 4 (2013)
Lo studio della relazione attore-spettatore e i nuovi modelli cognitivi
Creators: name: Sofia, Gabriele
Publisher: name: Dipartimento delle Arti - Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna
Year: 2013
Subjects: attore; spettatore; neuroscienze; percezione; ricezione

description: Abstract – IT Lo studio della relazione attore-spettatore può essere oggi approfondita alla luce dei nuovi modelli cognitivi. Questi modelli, legati in diversi modi alle proposte di embodied mind e alla neurofenomenologia introdotta da Varela negli anni ’90, hanno operato tre cambiamenti di paradigma fondamentali per lo studio della relazione teatrale: 1. esiste una connessione diretta tra percezione e azione; 2. la coscienza non è il risultato del lavoro del solo cervello ma può essere descritta come processo circolare tra essere umano e ambiente; 3. la descrizione dei processi cognitivi necessita il superamento della dicotomia logica tra interno e esterno.  Grazie a questi avanzamenti, lo studio della relazione attore-spettatore conquista dei nuovi concetti che ne raffinano l’analisi: l’intenzione dilatata, il body schema performativo, la co-costituzione dello spazio scenico, l’esperienza performativa dello spettatore.     Abstract – EN The research on the actor-spectator relationship can achieve a higher precision thanks to the new cognitive models. Linked to the propositions of embodied mind and neurophenomenology, proposed by Varela in the 90s, this models propose some important paradigm’s shift: 1. a direct connection between perception and action has been showed; 2. consciousness is not the result of the brain alone but it is a circular process between human being and the world; 3. the description of the cognitive processes has to bypass of the logical dichotomy inner/outer. From the point of view of this advancements, the study of the actor-spectator relationship gains new concepts which improve the precision of the analysis: the dilated intension, the performative body schema, the co-constitution of the theatrical space, the spectator performative experience.
description: Antropologia e Teatro. Rivista di Studi; N° 4 (2013)
The Gap in the Fence:  Austerity Cuts, Retrenchment and European Theatre’s Wake-Up Call
Creators: name: Freeman, John
Publisher: name: Dipartimento delle Arti - Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna
Year: 2013
Subjects: theatre; public funding; crisis; austerity

description: Abstract – ITA Com’è ampiamente risaputo, per le piccole-medie compagnie teatrali i tagli  dovuti alla politica europea di austerità significano affrontare un futuro incerto. E questo proprio mentre l'età dell'oro del finanziamento pubblico si avvicina alla sua fine. Ma è stato aureo, di per sé, il teatro che questo finanziamento ha prodotto?  E gli Europei, quando usano il termine “austerità”, fanno di un dramma una crisi? Questo articolo  avanza la provocatoria ipotesi per la quale, con probabilità, se il sussidio da un lato sostiene il teatro, dall'alto ne sopprime l'innovazione e che, forse, il teatro funzioni al meglio come genere fuori dalla legge, libero dal controllo pubblico mascherato da sostegno. Abstract – EN As the world well knows, austerity cuts in Europe mean that small-to-medium theatre companies are facing an uncertain future, to the extent that the golden age of funding is coming to an end. But has the theatre this funding has produced been golden in itself? And are Europeans turning a drama into a crisis when they use the term “austerity”? This paper puts forward the provocative argument that subsidy is as likely to suppress innovative theatre as it is to support it and that, perhaps, theatre functions best as an outlaw genre, free from public control masquerading as support.
description: Antropologia e Teatro. Rivista di Studi; N° 4 (2013)
Bunraku e Android-Human Theater. Un confronto tra scena tradizionale e contemporanea in Giappone
Creators: name: Toscano, Cinzia
Publisher: name: Dipartimento delle Arti - Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna
Year: 2013
Subjects: bunraku; android theater; Hirata Oriza

description: Abstract – IT Questo articolo affronta il tema del bunraku, forma classica del teatro delle marionette giapponese, esponendone brevemente la struttura e gli elementi costitutivi (musica per shamisen, narratore, manipolatore e marionetta). In particolar modo ci si è soffermati sulla componente visiva dello spettacolo, ossia sul rapporto che lega i manipolatori alla marionetta. Questa scelta è finalizzata a svolgere un confronto con il nascente teatro degli androidi, che in Giappone ha il suo primo esempio nelle opere del regista Hirata Oriza. Dal confronto si evidenzia una continuità tra queste due forme teatrali tanto lontane nel tempo, quanto vicine negli intenti: dar vita all’oggetto inanimato.   Abstract – EN This article outlines bunraku, a classical form of Japanese puppet theatre, briefly focusing on the structure as well as on dramatic components (music for shamisen, chanter, puppeteers and puppet itself). More specifically, we concentrate on visual features of the play, or the relationship between puppeteers and puppet. The aim is to compare it with the rising android theatre, which in Japan is exemplified by Hirata Oriza's work. Such comparison enlightens a continuity between these two theatrical forms, which are as distant in time as close in the intentions: giving life to an inanimate object.
description: Antropologia e Teatro. Rivista di Studi; N° 4 (2013)
The Efficacy of Short-Term Supplemental Nutrition Education on Nutrition Knowledge and Dietary Behaviors of Urban Middle School Children
Creators: name: Orr, Julia
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background: Children and adolescents are not meeting the dietary guidelines and overweight and obesity related diseases are on the rise among youth in the United States. However, research is inconsistent with regard to the most effective method of educating urban youth.
Purpose:  To determine the effect of a supplemental nutrition education on the knowledge and behaviors of urban school students.
Methods: Six nutrition lessons were provided to students attending the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) in Atlanta, GA. A pre- and posttest was administered to assess differences in students? nutrition knowledge and behaviors. Chi-square analysis compared the number of correct answers for the entire intervention population and after stratification by gender and number of classes missed. The Wilcoxon signed rank test compared the median number of correct answers in pre- vs. posttest responses for all participants and by the number of classes missed.
Results: 15 students enrolled in the study. 2 students did not complete the study. A significant but negative change in knowledge was found in 1 of 15 nutrition questions. A significant negative change in the median number of total answers correct on the pre- vs. posttest was also observed (p=0.049). Approximately 60% of the participants reported that they were more likely to make positive, nutrition-related behavior changes after the intervention.
Conclusion: We found a negative association between the nutrition education intervention and knowledge gain. This study suggests that nutrition education alone does not have a significant effect on nutrition knowledge of urban youth.
Demographic, Dietary, and Lifestyle Determinants of Vitamin D Status in the US Population: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2005-2006
Creators: name: Patel, Shalini
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background: Determinants of vitamin D status are of interest when studying the epidemiology of disease in population groups because vitamin D is now recognized to decrease the risk of diseases such as osteoporosis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Understanding modifiable determinants of vitamin D status are important for managing vitamin D deficiency at the individual level and for addressing this issue at population level.
Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the associations between serum vitamin D status (deficiency and insufficiency) and distinct demographic, dietary, and lifestyle characteristics of adults in the United States using a large, nationally representative sample survey, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2006.
Methods: The study sample consisted of 2340 adults aged 20-59 who had serum 25(OH)D measured and who had completed various questionnaires concerning dietary intake of vitamin D and other lifestyle factors. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency in adults based on distinct demographic, dietary, and lifestyle characteristics. Statistical significance was set at à < 0.05.
Results: The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was higher in obese adults than in underweight to normal weight adults (50.9% ñ 4.57 vs. 29.3% ñ 3.57), higher in adults who reported no sunburns than in adults who reported ò 3 sunburns (49.9% ñ 3.82 vs. 18.0% ñ 3.07), and higher in adults who use sun protective measures regularly than in adults who do not (48.4% ñ 3.93 vs. 27.0% ñ 3.75). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency increased as dietary intake of vitamin D decreased. Non-Hispanic black adults were significantly more likely to be vitamin D deficient (OR = 45.27, 95% CI = 17.27-118.64) and insufficient (OR = 9.37, 95% CI = 3.43-25.61) than non-Hispanic white adults. Significant positive associations were found between vitamin D deficiency and several characteristics, namely obesity (OR = 7.43, 95% CI = 4.33-12.77), physical inactivity (OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.03-2.58) poor dietary vitamin D intake (OR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.44-3.81), non-supplement use or supplement use with a low amount of vitamin D (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.05-2.89), and activities that decrease exposure to sunlight (from OR = 2.97, 95% CI = 2.14-4.13 to OR = 5.30, 95% CI = 3.17-8.85).
Conclusion: The results of this nationally representative study demonstrate that obesity, physical inactivity, poor dietary intake of vitamin D, and low sunlight exposure increases the risk for vitamin D deficiency in U.S adults. Future studies are needed to investigate whether vitamin D supplementation, sunlight exposure, and vitamin D-fortified foods are efficient in correcting vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency among these groups.
Constraining the formation of the Milky Way: ages
Creators: name: Chiappini, C.
name: Minchev, I.
name: Martig, M.
Publisher: name: Swinburne
Year: 2024

description: We present a new approach for studying the chemodynamical evolution of the Milky Way, which combines a thin disk chemical evolution model with the dynamics from N-body simulation of a galaxy with properties similar to those of our Galaxy. A cosmological re-simulation is used as a surrogate in order to extract ∼ 11 Gyrs of self-consistent dynamical evolution. We are then in a position to quantify the impact of radial migration at the Solar Vicinity. We find that the distribution of birth radii, r0, of stars ending up in a solar neighborhood-like location after ∼ 11 Gyr of evolution peaks around r0 = 6 kpc due to radial migration. A wide range of birth radii is seen for different age groups. The strongest effect from radial migration is found for the oldest stars and it is connected to an early merger phase typical from cosmological simulations. We find that while the low-end in our simulated solar vicinity metallicity distribution is composed by stars with a wide range of birth radii, the tail at larger metallicities (0.25 <[Fe/H]< 0.6) results almost exclusively from stars with 3 < r0< 5 kpc. This is the region just inside the bar's corotation (CR), which is where the strongest outward radial migration occurs. The fraction of stars in this tail can, therefore, be related to the bar's dynamical properties, such as its strength, pattern speed and time evolution/formation. We show that one of the main observational constraints of this kind of models is the time variation of the abundance gradients in the disk. The most important outcome of our chemodynamical model is that, although we used only a thin-disc chemical evolution model, the oldest stars that are now in the solar vicinity show several of the properties usually attributed to the Galactic thick disc. In other words, in our model the MW 'thick disc' emerges naturally from stars migrating from the inner disc very early on due to strong merger activity in the first couple of Gyr of disc formation, followed by further radial migration driven by the bar and spirals at later times. These results will be extended to other radius bins and more chemical elements in order to provide testable predictions once more precise information on ages and distances would become available (with Gaia, asteroseismology and future surveys such as 4MOST).
Suboptimal Nutrient Intake in HIV-Infected Youth and Associations with Serum Lipid Profiles and HIV-Related Factors
Creators: name: Stricker, Lindsey
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background: Few studies have evaluated habitual nutrient intake among HIV-infected youth in the United States, even though diet may influence disease progression and chronic complication risk.
Objective: This study determined micro- and macronutrient intake in HIV-infected youth, and investigated relationships among nutrient intake, demographics, lipid profiles, and HIV-related factors.
Design: HIV-infected subjects and healthy controls 1-25 years old were prospectively enrolled. Concomitant demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected. Nutrient intake was assessed via 24-hr dietary recalls performed every 3 months for one year, analyzed with NDS-R software, and compared to Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) and Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Ranges (AMDRs).
Results: Subjects with ò2 food recalls were analyzed (175 HIV+; 43 controls). Groups were similar in age, race, sex, body mass index, and kilocalorie intake. Both groups did not meet DRI for several micronutrients. HIV+ subjects had lower %DRI than controls for vitamins A, E, pantothenic acid, magnesium, calcium, folate and potassium. Percent kilocalories from fat was above normal and higher in HIV+ patients. Caloric intake was negatively correlated with current and nadir CD4 counts. Zinc, riboflavin, and magnesium %DRI were positively associated with current CD4+ count. In HIV+ subjects not on antiretroviral therapy, HIV-1 RNA levels were negatively correlated with protein intake.
Conclusions: HIV+ youth have inadequate intake of several essential nutrients and poorer dietary intake compared to controls. Intake of some nutrients was associated with HIV-related factors. Further investigation is warranted to determine the impact of nutrition on HIV progression and chronic complication risk in this population.
Academic Footprints of Students: A Systematic Review of Published Research Led by Students during 2021 to 2023
Creators: name: Sumayang, Joann
name: Ole, Carmelyn
name: Tadlas, Melodia
Publisher: name: San Isidro College
Year: 2023
Subjects: Bibliometric Analysis
Higher Education Research
Published Research
Student-Led Research
Systematic Review
Undergraduate Research

description: In a time when student research is gaining recognition, the value of their published work goes beyond academic requirements and contributes to institutional learning. Reviewing these academic outputs sheds light on how student initiatives reflect deeper engagement with real-world issues and professional development. A step-by-step review was conducted, beginning with a detailed inventory of student publications followed by a focused selection process. The selected articles were analyzed using thematic and comparative techniques to identify meaningful academic contributions made by students. The review found that student-led research projects addressed diverse topics such as critical thinking, cultural preservation, academic transitions, and mental health awareness. Each study offered practical insights that reflect learners' personal and educational realities. The results highlight how students contribute meaningfully to academic knowledge by exploring issues that matter to their communities and experiences. These findings support the value of continued support for student research and underscore the importance of further documenting these academic contributions in the years ahead.
Oxidized soybean oil alters the expression of PPAR gamma and target genes in 3T3-L1 cells
Creators: name: Dingels, Nicole
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background:  The typical western diet contains foods with modest amounts of lipid oxidation products. Previous work by us and others have demonstrated that mildly oxidized lipids promote a gain in fat mass while highly oxidized lipids decrease fat mass in rodents and triglyceride (TAG) accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells. Adipocyte differentiation is regulated by a key nuclear transcription factor known as PPAR?.
Objective: To investigate if the alterations in triglyceride accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells pretreated with oxidized soy oil are due to 1) a change in PPARg DNA interactions 2) changes in the expression of SREBP-1c, PPARg, and/or its target genes.
Main Methods:  Confluent 3T3-L1 cells were pretreated for 24hours with 0.01% soy oil (SO) which was either unheated (unheated SO) or heated for 3, (3h-SO), 6 (6h-SO), or 9hours (9h-SO). The effect of 24hour soy oil exposure was assessed at several time points throughout the differentiation process. Alterations in PPARg DNA interaction was assessed using a PPAR? transcription factor assay kit while alterations in the expression of genes upstream and downstream of PPAR? was determined by RT-PCR. Primary and secondary products of oxidation within the SO were determined by spectrophotometry.
Results: The 6hr-SO contained the greatest concentration of peroxides whereas both the 6hr-SO and 9hr-SO contained a significantly higher concentration of conjugated dienes and aldehydes.Nuclear extracts from 3T3-L1 cells pretreated with 6h-SO demonstrated the greatest reduction in PPAR? DNA binding. Compared to the unheated SO and mildly oxidized 3h-SO, cells treated with the 6h-SO had a significant reduction in SREBP-1c, PPARg, LPL, and GLUT4 expression occurring early in the differentiation process. Variations in the gene expression of 6hr-SO pretreated cells persisted within partially differentiated and mature adipocytes.
Conclusions: Pre-treatment of preadipocytes with soy oil heated for ? 6h greatly decreases the activity of PPAR? in the nucleus and adipogenic gene expression . These changes seen in early differentiation seem to correlate the best with the phenotype of reduced triglyceride accumulation seen in mature adipocytes.
Sociocultural Barriers to Breast Feeding in African American Women with Focused Intervention to Increased Prevalence
Creators: name: Simpson, Alicia
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Objective: The goal of this study is to uncover sociocultural barriers to breastfeeding among African American women in the Atlanta metropolitan area and provide an educational intervention based on identified barriers to increase the willingness to breastfeed. Methods: Non-Hispanic African American women, 6 to 9 months pregnant, between the ages of 18 and 45, of varying socioeconomic status were recruited from multiple Obstetrics and Gynecology clinics throughout the Atlanta-metropolitan area. Participants completed a self-administered pre-test survey that questioned their intention to breastfeed and anticipated barriers associated with breastfeeding. Those who were unsure of breastfeeding or did not plan to breastfeed were asked to participate in an educational intervention that provided information about breastfeeding, the benefits to mother and baby and managing commonly perceived barriers. Immediately after the intervention a post-test was provided. A second post-test was conducted after all participants delivered their baby. Chi-square analysis was performed to examine the distribution of actual breastfeeding initiation rates by initial intention as well as by age, income and education. Results: Forty-nine women participated in the study. 18 of 20 women (90%) who intended to exclusively breastfeed initiated breastfeeding. Sixteen women reported that they did not intend to breastfeed. After receiving the intervention, 56.3% (n=9) initiated breastfeeding. Thirteen women reported they were unsure of their feeding plans in the pretest. Of these, 69.2% (n=9) initiated breastfeeding. Participants reported their primary barriers to breastfeeding were fear of pain, difficulty breastfeeding once they returned to work and lack of support from family, friends and their partner/spouse/father of the child. A significant association was observed between ages 25-29 years old and initiation of breastfeeding in women who were unsure of their breastfeeding plans (p=0.005). No association was found between income or education and initiation of breastfeeding. Conclusion: Education about breastfeeding was a significant barrier to breastfeeding in the African-American women in our study population. Women who participated in the intervention were more likely to initiate breastfeeding. Employment status, income, and education were not significant factors in a woman?s decision to initiate breastfeeding.
Association Between Vitamin D Intake and Obesity During Pre- and Early Adolescence
Creators: name: Scholle, Lori
Publisher: name: Georgia State University
Year: 2012

description: Background: Prevalence of obesity in US children has increased substantially. The influence of vitamin D intake on body mass index (BMI)  is yet to be clearly defined.  Results are mixed regarding the relationship of vitamin D deficiency with obesity in children. The objective of this study was to examine the association between vitamin D intake and BMI over a 6 month period in pre-to early adolescent children in Pittsburgh, PA.
Methods:  Secondary analysis was done on 256 healthy 6-14 year old (54% male) Caucasian and African American (70%) children from Pittsburgh, PA.  Participants completed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and a Sun Exposure Questionnaire (SEQ) and provided anthropometric measures at 2 time points 6 months apart.  Vitamin D intake was compared by BMI status (normal = <85th percentile, overweight = 85th to 95th percentile, obese = >95th percentile) as well as by change in BMI over 6 months.    Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance, Spearman?s correlation, Chi Square test, and regression analysis (vitamin D intake, gender, race, baseline BMI, total energy intake, sun exposure and sunscreen use).
Results:  Median reported vitamin D intake was 245.85 IU at baseline and 382.51 IU at 6 month follow up.  After subdividing children by BMI, at baseline the obese group reported lowest median intake (188 IU) and at 6 month follow up the normal group reported lowest median intake (374 IU) (P=0.03).  Overall relation between vitamin D intake and BMI  was significant (P=0.033) but  weak (r=-0.015). Regression analysis revealed only baseline BMI status (P=<0.001) as a predictor of 6 month follow up BMI.  No relation was observed between change in BMI and vitamin D intake.
Conclusion:  The results of this study do not support a strong relationship between vitamin D intake and change in BMI status over a 6 month time period.