scholarly journals Dietary Supplementation with Selenium and Coenzyme Q10 Prevents Increase in Plasma D-Dimer While Lowering Cardiovascular Mortality in an Elderly Swedish Population

Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 1344
Author(s):  
Urban Alehagen ◽  
Jan Aaseth ◽  
Tomas L. Lindahl ◽  
Anders Larsson ◽  
Jan Alexander

A low intake of selenium is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality. This could be reduced by supplementation with selenium and coenzyme Q10. D-dimer, a fragment of fibrin mirroring fibrinolysis, is a biomarker of thromboembolism, increased inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and is associated with cardiovascular mortality in ischemic heart disease. The objective was to examine the impact of selenium and coenzyme Q10 on the level of D-dimer, and its relationship to cardiovascular mortality. D-dimer was measured in 213 individuals at the start and after 48 months of a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial with selenium yeast (200 µg/day) and coenzyme Q10 (200 mg/day) (n = 106) or placebo (n = 107). The follow-up time was 4.9 years. All included individuals were low in selenium (mean 67 μg/L, SD 16.8). The differences in D-dimer concentration were evaluated by the use of T-tests, repeated measures of variance and ANCOVA analyses. At the end, a significantly lower D-dimer concentration was observed in the active treatment group in comparison with those on placebo (p = 0.006). Although D-dimer values at baseline were weakly associated with high-sensitive CRP, while being more strongly associated with soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor 1 and sP-selectin, controlling for these in the analysis there was an independent effect on D-dimer. In participants with a D-dimer level above median at baseline, the supplementation resulted in significantly lower cardiovascular mortality compared to those on placebo (p = 0.014). All results were validated with a persisting significant difference between the two groups. Therefore, supplementation with selenium and coenzyme Q10 in a group of elderly low in selenium and coenzyme Q10 prevented an increase in D-dimer and reduced the risk of cardiovascular mortality in comparison with the placebo group. The obtained results also illustrate important associations between inflammation, endothelial function and cardiovascular risk.

Circulation ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 132 (suppl_3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniela Bassi ◽  
Vivian M Arakelian ◽  
Renata G Mendes ◽  
Flavia C Caruso ◽  
José C Bonjorno Júnior ◽  
...  

Background: The prevalence of diabetes have increased globally to epidemic proportions; glycemic control and treatment remains a challenge. Concurrent aerobic and resistance training programs (CART) have been widely recommended as an important strategy to improve physiologic and functional performance. Objective: The impact of CART programs on metabolic profile, glycemic control and exercise capacity status in patients with diabetes requires additional study, which is the primary aim of the current study. Materials and Methods: We evaluated 41 patients (15 female and 19 male, 50.8±7 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes. The subjects were randomized in two groups: sedentary group (SG) and CART group (CART-G). CART was performed 12 weeks, 3 times a week for approximately 1 hour per session (30 minutes aerobic and 30 minutes resistance). Body habitus was assessed by body mass index, waist circumference, and skinfolds. Peripheral muscular strength was evaluated by an isokinetic dynamometer and pulmonary gas exchange was measured breath-by-breath, using a portable telemetric system during maximal incremental exercise testing on a cycle ergometer. Statistical analysis included Shapiro-Wilk test follow by ANOVA two way repeated measures. Results: We observed a decrease in HbA1c (8.1±1.6 to 7.3±1.2%), cholesterol (198.38.1±50.3 to 186.8±35.1 mg/dL) and HOMA IR (6.4±6.8 to 5.0±1.4) in the CART-G compared to the SG. There was no significant difference in fasting plasma glucose. Although body weight did not significantly change after training, skinfold measurements indicated decreased body fat in the CART-G only. CART significantly enhanced muscle strength (p<0.05) (peak torque: 135.5±4 to 159.7±47.7 N.m) compared to the SG (Peak torque: 145.3±47.9 to 143±42.2 N.m). CART was also associated with a significant increase in peak oxygen consumption, from 22.9±6.1 to 27.2±4.7 ml•kg –1 •min –1 compared to the SG, from 21.7±4.5 to 21±3.3 ml•kg –1 •min –1 as well as the maximal workload (124.6±29.1 to 149.9±29 watts) compared to the SG (123.6±36.9 to 122.1±32.9 watts). Conclusion: We concluded that CART is an important intervention strategy, producing both physiologic and functional improvements, in patients with diabetes.


2013 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 507-515 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maíra Seabra de Assumpção ◽  
Renata Maba Gonçalves ◽  
Lúcia Cristina Krygierowicz ◽  
Ana Cristina T. Orlando ◽  
Camila Isabel S. Schivinski

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of manual vibrocompression and nasotracheal suctioning on heart (hr) and respiratory (rr) rates, peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), pain and respiratory distress in infants in the postoperative period of a cardiac surgery. METHODS: Randomized controlled trial, in which the assessments were performed by the same physiotherapist in two moments: before and after the procedure. The infants were randomly divided into two groups: Intervention (IG), with manual chest vibrocompression, nasotracheal suctioning and resting; and Control CG), with 30 minutes of rest. Cardiorespiratory data (SpO2; hr; rr) were monitored and the following scales were used: Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS), for pain evaluation, and Bulletin of Silverman-Andersen (BSA), for respiratory distress assessment. The data were verified by analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures, being significant p<0.05. RESULTS: 20 infants with heart disease, ten in each group (seven acyanotic and three cyanotic) were enrolled, with ages ranging from zero to 12 months. In the analysis of the interaction between group and time, there was a significant difference in the variation of SpO2 (p=0.016), without changes in the other variables. Considering the main effect on time, only rr showed a significant difference (p=0.001). As for the group main effect, there were no statistical differences (SpO2 - p=0.77, hr - p=0.14, rr - p=0.17, NIPS - p=0.49 and BSA - p=0.51 ). CONCLUSIONS: The manual vibrocompression and the nasotracheal suctioning applied to infants in postoperative of cardiac surgery did not altered SpO2 and rr, and did not trigger pain and respiratory distress. [Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC): REQ: 1467].


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
pp. 101-120
Author(s):  
Ayça Aktaç Gürbüz ◽  
Orçun YORULMAZ ◽  
Gülşah DURNA

Scientific research into the reduction of stigmatization, particularly related to specific problems such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), is scarce. In the present study, we examine the impact of a video-based antistigma intervention program for OCD in a pretest-posttest control group research. After being randomly assigned to either an intervention (n= 101) or control group (n= 96), the participants reported their attitudes on a hypothetical case vignette before and after OCD vs. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) videos, and again six months later as a follow up assessment. The mixed design analyses for the group comparisons indicated that although there was no significant difference in the measures of the control group, the participants watching the anti-stigma OCD video, in which the focus was psychoeducation and interaction strategies, reported significantly lower scores on social distances and negative beliefs for the case vignettes they read, and this difference was maintained six months later. Then, the present results indicate the effectiveness of our anti-stigma intervention program for OCD. Interventions to reduce stigmatization can also be viewed as effective tools for changing the attitudes of people toward OCD, although further research and applications are needed related to specific disorders if a longlasting impact is to be achieved.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rémi Etienne ◽  
Myriam Laurent ◽  
Aline Henry ◽  
Antoine Bioy ◽  
Julia Salleron ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Neuropathic pain is characterized by spontaneous painful symptoms. Medical therapies include the use of a capsaicin 8% patch (Qutenza®, Grünenthal Gmbh, Germany), and patients may experience a sharp burning sensation at application and removal of the patch. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of playing a standardized hypnosis recording during application, on the pain and anxiety induced by capsaicin treatment. Methods In a randomized, controlled trial, we assessed the benefits of the intervention firstly on pain and secondly on anxiety, as measured using numerical rating scales. All patients had application of the capsaicin patch, including the possibility for the patient to apply a cold patch. Participants were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups, namely the “Standard group” (no intervention), “Hypnosis group”, in which a standardized hypnotic message was played during application, or the “Music group” in which relaxing music was played during application of the patch. Results Sixty-nine patients were included. Overall, there was no significant difference in pain scores between groups (p = 0.355). Compared to standard application, anxiety was significantly lower in the hypnosis group after application (p = 0.007), with no significant difference between the standard and music arms (p = 0.271), or between the hypnosis and music arms (p = 0.423). Conclusions Listening to a standardized hypnotic message during application of a capsaicin patch was found to significantly lower anxiety. These findings indicate that the use of a hypnotic message can reduce discomfort and warrant its evaluation in other indications of pain or anxiety during treatment procedures. Trial registration NCT02822625.


Nutrients ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 520 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne Daly ◽  
Sharon Evans ◽  
Satnam Chahal ◽  
Saikat Santra ◽  
Alex Pinto ◽  
...  

Introduction: In phenylketonuria (PKU), evidence suggests that casein glycomacropeptide supplemented with rate-limiting amino acids (CGMP-AA) is associated with better protein utilisation and less blood phenylalanine (Phe) variability. Aim: To study the impact of CGMP-AA on blood Phe variability using 3 different dietary regimens in children with PKU. Methods: This was a 6-week randomised controlled cross-over study comparing CGMP-AA vs. Phe-free l-amino acids (l-AA) assessing blood Phe and tyrosine (Tyr) variability over 24 h in 19 children (7 boys) with PKU, with a median age of 10 years (6–16). Subjects were randomised to 3 dietary regimens: (1) R1, CGMP-AA and usual dietary Phe (CGMP + Phe); (2) R2, CGMP-AA − Phe content of CGMP-AA from usual diet (CGMP − Phe); and (3) R3, l-AA and usual dietary Phe. Each regimen was administered for 14 days. Over the last 48 h on days 13 and 14, blood spots were collected every 4 h at 08 h, 12 h, 16 h, 20 h, 24 h, and 04 h. Isocaloric intake and the same meal plan and protein substitute dosage at standardised times were maintained when blood spots were collected. Results: Eighteen children completed the study. Median Phe concentrations over 24 h for each group were (range) R1, 290 (30–580), R2, 220 (10–670), R3, 165 (10–640) μmol/L. R1 vs. R2 and R1 vs. R3 p < 0.0001; R2 vs. R3 p = 0.0009. There was a significant difference in median Phe at each time point between R1 vs. R2, p = 0.0027 and R1 vs. R3, p < 0.0001, but not between any time points for R2 vs. R3. Tyr was significantly higher in both R1 and R2 [70 (20–240 μmol/L] compared to R3 [60 (10–200) μmol/L]. In children < 12 years, blood Phe remained in the target range (120–360 μmol/L), over 24 h, for 75% of the time in R1, 72% in R2 and 64% in R3; for children aged ≥ 12 years, blood Phe was in target range (120–600 μmol/L) in R1 and R2 for 100% of the time, but 64% in R3. Conclusions: The residual Phe in CGMP-AA increased blood Phe concentration in children. CGMP-AA appears to give less blood Phe variability compared to l-AA, but this effect may be masked by the increased blood Phe concentrations associated with its Phe contribution. Reducing dietary Phe intake to compensate for CGMP-AA Phe content may help.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rémi Etienne ◽  
Myriam Laurent ◽  
Aline Henry ◽  
Antoine Bioy ◽  
Julia Salleron ◽  
...  

Abstract BackgroundNeuropathic pain is characterised by spontaneous painful symptoms. Medical therapies include the use of a capsaicin 8% patch (Qutenza ®, Grünenthal Gmbh, Germany), and patients may experience a sharp burning sensation at application and removal of the patch. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of playing a standardized hypnosis recording during application, on the pain and anxiety induced by capsaicin treatment.MethodsIn a randomized-controlled trial, we assessed the benefits of the intervention firstly on pain and secondly on anxiety, as measured using numerical rating scales. All patients had application of the capsaicin patch, including the possibility for the patient to apply a cold patch. Participants were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups, namely the “Standard group” (no intervention), “Hypnosis group”, in which a standardized hypnotic message was played during application, or the “Music group” in which relaxing music was played during application of the patch.ResultsSixty-nine patients were included. Overall, there was no significant difference in pain scores between groups (p = 0.355). Compared to standard application, anxiety was significantly lower in the hypnosis group after application (p = 0.007), with no significant difference between the standard and music arms (p = 0.271), or between the hypnosis and music arms (p = 0.423).ConclusionsListening to a standardized hypnotic message during application of a capsaicin patch was found to significantly lower anxiety. These findings indicate that the use of a hypnotic message can reduce discomfort and warrant its evaluation in other indications of pain or anxiety during treatment procedures.Trial Registration : NCT02822625


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andy Murray ◽  
Michele Marenus ◽  
Ana Cahuas ◽  
Kathryn Friedman ◽  
Haley Ottensoser ◽  
...  

BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety are growing issues for college students, with both aerobic-resistance training and mindfulness-yoga exercises known to be effective in reducing symptoms and severity. However, no known research is available comparing these two depression and anxiety interventions simultaneously and in a virtual environment. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the effects of a virtual aerobic-resistance exercise intervention (WeActive) and a virtual yoga-mindfulness mindfulness exercise intervention (WeMindful) on depression and anxiety symptoms in college students METHODS The participants were 78 college students who anonymously completed a Qualtrics survey including the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and the Major Depression Inventory (MDI) at baseline and the post-test. Participants were randomly assigned to either the WeActive or WeMindful group and underwent two 30-minute virtual aerobic-resistance exercise lessons or yoga-mindfulness lessons per week for eight weeks. RESULTS The results of ANCOVA with repeated measures indicated that, while not statistically significant, both groups showed a notable decrease in anxiety with a marginal significant main effect of time (F = 3.485, p = 0.066, η2 = 0.047) but no significant main effect of group and no significant interaction effect of time with group. The two intervention groups experienced a significant decrease in depression with the main effect of time (F = 3.892, p = 0.052, η2 = 0.052). There was no significant main effect of group or interaction effect of time with group for depression. CONCLUSIONS College students in both WeActive and WeMindful groups experienced a significant decrease in depression symptoms and a decrease, though not significant, in anxiety as well. The study suggests that virtual WeActive and WeMindful interventions are effective approaches to managing US college student depression and anxiety during a pandemic.


2020 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 5-7
Author(s):  
R Khan ◽  
M A Scaffidi ◽  
N Gimpaya ◽  
D Tham ◽  
M Atalla ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Polypectomy is an essential endoscopic skill. Training in polypectomy has been identified as a major deficiency for endoscopists worldwide as polypectomy occurs ad hoc during a colonoscopy when a polyp is detected, and a lack of standardized curricula. Augmented reality (AR), which superimposes computer-generated images on a user’s view of the world, can address these gaps by standardizing encounters with polyps while completing simulated procedures and enabling polypectomy-specific teaching. Aims Evaluate the impact of a simulation-based augmented reality curriculum on polypectomy performance among novice endoscopists. Methods This study includes two cohorts of participants from 2019 to 2020. In 2019, participants were randomized into either: (1) a control curriculum, involving 6 hours of simulation-based training (SBT) supplemented by expert feedback, interlaced with 4 hours of small group teaching on the theory of colonoscopy; or (2) the augmented reality curriculum (ARC), in involving the same curriculum with integrated AR, wherein participants engaged with an AR-enhanced video demonstrating relevant therapeutic and pathologic details during polypectomy. The SBT for all participants involved a progressive curriculum starting on a bench-top model and then moving to the EndoVR® virtual reality simulator. The primary outcome was polypectomy-specific performance using the Direct Observation of Polypectomy Skills (DOPyS) tool during a simulated polypectomy after training, with a maximum score of 100. Results Demographic characteristics are summarized in Table. In 2019, 21 novice endoscopists were enrolled. Immediately after training, the mean DOPyS score among ARC group participants was 76.2 (SD=17.9) compared to 71.8 (SD=13.2) among control group participants (Figure). In this interim analysis, there was no significant difference between groups. Data analysis will be completed after 2020 participants complete the study. Conclusions Interim results show a trend towards improved polypectomy performance with no significant difference. The results of this study have the potential to impact polypectomy education among novices. Simulation-based AR interventions may allow learners to progress towards achieving competency in polypectomy in a risk-free environment prior to first patient contact. Funding Agencies None


2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 53-59
Author(s):  
Dave Elliott ◽  
Dayne Massey

There are many studies showing acute static stretching to be detrimental to power generation. However, the majority have focused upon the impact of stretching the agonist musculature. To date, few have examined the potential benefits of acute antagonist static stretching; none have focused on upper-body power. Utilising a repeated-measures design, 30 male participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups whereupon they performed four bench-throw tests; two control (NO-STRETCH) and two experimental (STRETCH), in a counter-balanced manner. Prior to the experimental measures, participants undertook a series of static antagonist stretches. Mean Pmax (SD) in the NO-STRETCH trials was 862.76 (146)W and 898.50 (144)W, respectively. For STRETCH trial 1, Pmax = 930.10 (146)W and trial 2, Pmax = 953.36 (136)W. When compared to the respective NO-STRETCH trials, antagonist static stretching did have a significant effect on Pmax for both the initial ( P < 0.01, d = 1.33) and the re-stretching procedures ( P < 0.01, d = 1.35). A significant difference was also found between the STRETCH trials ( P < 0.01, d = 0.46). The results have practical implications for those involved in upper-body power activities. Specifically, incorporating upper-body antagonist static stretching into pre-performance routines might offer a simple and effective means of enhancing agonist power.


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