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Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a growing public health concern. The disease is silent, and its diagnosis is often delayed. Inflammatory markers constitute an interesting tool to act as subrogate, non-invasive markers. This study aimed to evaluate the changes of inflammatory markers throughout a two-year dietary intervention in subjects presenting MASLD, to determine which of the markers are suitable to predict the disease, and act as a customizing tool for MASLD's dietary treatment. Ninety-eight subjects with MASLD and forty-five controls from the Fatty Liver in Obesity (FLiO) Study were analyzed. MASLD was diagnosed and graded by ultrasound. The MASLD subjects were randomly assigned to two different dietary strategies, the American Heart Association (AHA diet) or a dietary strategy based on the Mediterranean pattern, which was specially designed for the study (FLiO diet), and then followed for two years. Hepatic status was additionally assessed through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), elastography, and determination of transaminases. Inflammatory markers improved throughout the intervention in the MASLD subjects and managed to reach similar levels to controls, especially at 6 and 12 months. Additionally, leptin, adiponectin, M30, and LECT2 managed to significantly diagnose the disease at all time marks of the intervention, making them candidates for subrogate non-invasive markers of the disease. Moreover, baseline chemerin, leptin, LECT2, and M65 were used to build a predictive score to achieve greater weight loss, and therefore, which strategy could be more useful for MASLD 's treatment. The predictive score was significantly able assign a specific diet to 55% of the study participants, meaning that the remaining 45% could achieve the same amount of weight loss following either diet equally. Inflammatory markers constitute a potential non-invasive tool to be used in MASLD screening and could also constitute an interesting tool for MASLD's treatment customization, being able to predict the effectiveness of a dietary strategy based on the initial inflammatory state of each subject. www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03183193). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption has increased dramatically over the last decades worldwide. Although it has been linked to some cardiometabolic comorbidities, there is limited evidence regarding kidney function. This study aimed to cross-sectionally and longitudinally assess the association between UPF consumption and estimated-glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on Cystatin C (CysC). Older adults (mean age 65 ± 5.0 years, 46% women) with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) who had available data of CysC at baseline (n = 1909), at one-year and at 3-years of follow-up (n = 1700) were analyzed. Food consumption was assessed using a validated 143-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and UPF consumption (% of g/d) at baseline and changes after one-year of follow-up were estimated according to NOVA classification system. Multivariable-adjusted linear and logistic regression models were performed to evaluate the cross-sectional associations between UPF consumption with eGFR levels and decreased kidney function (eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2) at baseline. Multivariable-adjusted mixed-effects linear regression models were fitted to investigate the associations between one-year changes in UPF and eGFR over 3-years of follow-up. Individuals with the highest baseline UPF consumption showed lower eGFR (β: −3.39 ml/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI: −5.59 to −1.20) and higher odds of decreased kidney function (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.21 to 2.22) at baseline, compared to individuals in the lowest tertile. Participants in the highest tertile of one-year changes in UPF consumption presented a significant decrease in eGFR after one-year of follow-up (β: −1.45 ml/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI: −2.90 to −0.01) as well as after 3-years of follow-up (β: −2.18 ml/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI: −3.71 to −0.65) compared to those in the reference category. In a Mediterranean population of older adults with overweight/obesity and MetS, higher UPF consumption at baseline and one-year changes towards higher consumption of UPF were associated with worse kidney function at baseline and over 3-years of follow-up, respectively. ISRCTN89898870. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Choline and betaine intakes have been related to cardiovascular health. Objectives We aimed to explore the relation between 1-y changes in dietary intake of choline or betaine and 1-y changes in cardiometabolic and renal function traits within the frame of the PREDIMED (PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea)-Plus trial. Methods We used baseline and 1-y follow-up data from 5613 participants (48.2% female and 51.8% male; mean ± SD age: 65.01 ± 4.91 y) to assess cardiometabolic traits, and 3367 participants to assess renal function, of the Spanish PREDIMED-Plus trial. Participants met ≥3 criteria of metabolic syndrome and had overweight or obesity [BMI (in kg/m2) ≥27 and ≤40]. These criteria were similar to those of the PREDIMED parent study. Dietary intakes of choline and betaine were estimated from the FFQ. Results The greatest 1-y increase in dietary choline or betaine intake (quartile 4) was associated with improved serum glucose concentrations (−3.39 and −2.72 mg/dL for choline and betaine, respectively) and HbA1c levels (−0.10% for quartile 4 of either choline or betaine intake increase). Other significant changes associated with the greatest increase in choline or betaine intake were reduced body weight (−2.93 and −2.78 kg, respectively), BMI (−1.05 and −0.99, respectively), waist circumference (−3.37 and −3.26 cm, respectively), total cholesterol (−4.74 and −4.52 mg/dL, respectively), and LDL cholesterol (−4.30 and −4.16 mg/dL, respectively). Urine creatinine was reduced in quartile 4 of 1-y increase in choline or betaine intake (−5.42 and −5.74 mg/dL, respectively). Conclusions Increases in dietary choline or betaine intakes were longitudinally related to improvements in cardiometabolic parameters. Markers of renal function were also slightly improved, and they require further investigation. This trial was registered at https://www.isrctn.com/ as ISRCTN89898870. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.robot.2009.06.003 Byline: Josep M. Mirats Tur (a), Claudio Zinggerling (b), Andreu Corominas Murtra (a) Abstract: In order to solve most of the existing mobile robotics applications, the robot needs some information about its spatial environment encoded in what it has been commonly called a map. The knowledge contained in such a map, whatever approach is used to obtain it, will mainly be used by the robot to gain the ability to navigate in a given environment. We are describing in this paper, a method that allows a robot or team of robots to navigate in large urban areas for which an existing map in a standard human understandable fashion is available. As detailed maps of most urban areas already exist, it will be assumed that a map of the zone where the robot is supposed to work is given, which has not been constructed using the robot's own sensors. We propose in this paper, the use of an existing Geographical Information System based map of an urban zone so that a robot or a team of robots can connect to this map and use it for navigation purposes. Details of the implemented system architecture as well as a position tracking experiment in a real outdoor environment, a University Campus, are provided. Author Affiliation: (a) Institut de RobA[sup.2]tica i Informatica Industrial, IRI (CSIC-UPC), C/Llorens i Artigas 4-6, 08028, Barcelona, Spain (b) Centre Internacional de Metodes Numerics en l'Enginyeria, CIMNE. Edif. C-1 Campus Nord UPC, C/Gran Capita s/n, 08034, Barcelona, Spain Article History: Received 17 August 2007; Revised 8 June 2009; Accepted 12 June 2009

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.robot.2008.06.009 Byline: Andreu Corominas Murtra (a), Josep M. Mirats Tur (a), Alberto Sanfeliu (a)(b) Abstract: This work is about solving the global localization issue for mobile robots, operating in large and cooperative environments. It tackles the problem of estimating the pose of a robot, or team of robots in a map reference frame, given the map, the real-time data from the robot onboard sensors, and the real-time data coming from other robots or sensors in the environment. After a first step of position hypotheses generation, an efficient probabilistic active strategy selects an action, for a single lost robot case, or two joint actions when two lost robots are in a line of sight, so that the hypotheses set is best disambiguated. The action set is adapted to the multi-hypothesis situation, and action evaluation takes into account remote observations available in robot network systems. This paper presents the theoretical formulation for both non-cooperative, and cooperative cases. An implementation of the proposed strategy is discussed, and simulation results presented. Author Affiliation: (a) Institut de RobA[sup.2]tica i Informatica Industrial, IRI (UPC-CSIC), C/Llorens i Artigas, 4-6. 08028, Barcelona, Spain .sup.1 1 http://www-iri.upc.es. (b) Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, UPC, Departament d'ESAII, C/Pau Gargallo, 5. 08028, Barcelona, Spain .sup.2 2 http://www.upc.edu.

This study aims to identify a posteriori dietary patterns with a sex approach and to evaluate their association with metabolic syndrome criteria. Cross-sectional study conducted in 6821 men and women between 55 and 75 years of age. Forty-two food groups were analyzed from dietary information collected with food frequency questionnaires, using principal component analysis and cluster analysis and then information from both statistical methods was compared. Prevalences were calculated foreach cluster group, based on the number and types of metabolic syndrome criteria they met. Following principal component analysis, two dietary patterns labeled "healthy" and "unhealthy" were identified in both men and women, due to the presence of foods that are considered more or less healthy. These same dietary patterns were found in cluster analysis plus an "intermediate" cluster consisting of both healthy and unhealthy foods. The presence of metabolic syndrome is related to the "healthy" dietary pattern in women and to the "unhealthy" dietary pattern in men. Comparison of the two statistical approaches showed a high level of correlation between them (weighted Kappa = 0.703 in women and weighted Kappa = 0.691 in men). Adherence to both healthy and unhealthy dietary pattern appears to be related to the development of MS. The differences found by sex make it necessary to develop interventions with a sex-specific approach. • It is necessary to approach sex as men and women followed different dietary patterns. • Cluster analysis and principal component analysis revealed similar patterns, being more coherent when sex was considered. • An intermediate pattern was found where healthy and unhealthy foods were consumed in similar proportions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Española de Cardiología (18855857) is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Short dietary assessment tools can be useful to estimate food intake and diet quality in large-scale epidemiological studies with time constraints. To determine the concurrent validity of the 17-item energy-restricted Mediterranean Adherence Screener (er-MEDAS) used in the PREDIMED (PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea)-Plus trial and to analyse its capacity to detect 1-year changes in diet and cardiometabolic risk factors. Validation study nested in the PREDIMED-Plus (n = 6760, 55–75 years). Dietary data were collected by the 17-item er-MEDAS and a 143-item validated semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) at baseline and after 1-year intervention. Cardiometabolic risk markers were measured at both time points. A Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) score was derived from both instruments. Concurrent validity was evaluated by Pearson and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland and Altman limits of agreement. Construct validity was evaluated by assessing 1-year changes in FFQ-reported dietary intake and cardiometabolic profile changes in relation to changes in er-MEDAS. A moderate to good correlation between the MedDiet score calculated by both measurement instruments was found: r = 0.61 and ICC = 0.60 (both p < 0.001). Agreement of each of the er-MEDAS items ranged from 55.4% to 85.0% with a moderate mean concordance (kappa = 0.41). Between baseline and 1-year follow-up, energy intake measured by the FFQ decreased by 242 kcal, while Mediterranean food consumption increased in participants with the highest increase in the er-MEDAS MedDiet score. An increase in the er-MEDAS MedDiet score ratings was associated with a decrease in BMI, waist circumference, triglycerides, fasting glucose, diastolic blood pressure, and triglycerides/HDL-cholesterol ratio (p < 0.001 for all), and with an increase in HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.006). The er-MEDAS shows a modest to good concurrent validity compared with FFQ data. It shows acceptable construct validity, as a greater er-MEDAS score was associated with more favourable dietary and cardiometabolic profiles over time. ISRCTN89898870; registration date, 24 July 2014. https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN89898870. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between drinking water consumption and adiposity has been poorly explored. Therefore, we aimed to analyse the associations between the frequency of drinking water consumption and body weight and waist circumference changes in an elderly Mediterranean cohort. A total of 1832 elderly participants (aged 55–75 years) with metabolic syndrome from the PREDIMED-Plus study with baseline data on drinking water and other beverages assessed by a validated 32-item Spanish fluid-intake questionnaire and with data on body weight (BW) and waist circumference (WC) at 1-year and 2-year were included in these prospective analyses. Multivariable linear regression models were fitted to assess the β-coefficients and 95% confidence interval (CI) for BW and WC changes in terms of categories of baseline drinking water consumption (tap water and bottled water). The theoretical effect on BW and WC of replacing several beverages with drinking water was assessed using mathematical models. The baseline frequency of drinking water consumption was inversely associated with 1-year and 2-year changes in BW. β-coefficients (95%CI) across categories of water consumption (<2.5, 2.5 to <5, 5 to < 7.5, ≥7.5 servings/d) expressed in % of weight changes at 2 years of follow-up were 0.0, −0.80 (−1.48, −0.12), −1.36 (−2.18, −0.54), and −1.97 (−3.09, −0.86), respectively. Individuals in the two highest categories of drinking water consumption (5 to < 7, and ≥7.5 servings/d) also showed a higher decrease in WC (expressed as % of change) after 2 years of follow-up: −1.11 (−1.96, −0.25) and −1.45 (−2.66, −0.24) compared to the reference intake (<2.5 servings/day), after adjustment for potential confounding factors. The theoretical replacement of soups, beers, spirits, hot beverages, dairy beverages, and other beverages group with drinking water was associated with greater reductions in BW at one- and two-years of follow-up. Drinking water consumption was inversely associated with 2-year adiposity changes in an elderly Mediterranean cohort at high cardiovascular risk. Our results also suggest that the consumption of drinking water instead of energy-containing beverages is associated with lower weight gain. ISRCTN89898870. • Drinking water consumption was inversely associated with 1-year and 2-year changes in BW. • Increased drinking water was associated with higher reduction in waist circumference. • The replacement of some energy containing beverages consumption by drinking water was associated with reductions on BW. • Replacement of 1 mixed alcoholic beverage serving by 1 drinking water serving was associated with reductions on BW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Portfolio and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets have been shown to lower cardiometabolic risk factors in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). However, the Portfolio diet has only been assessed in RCTs of hyperlipidemic patients. Therefore, to assess the Portfolio diet in a population with metabolic syndrome (MetS), we conducted a longitudinal analysis of one-year data of changes in the Portfolio and DASH diet scores and their association with cardiometabolic risk factors in Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea (PREDIMED)-Plus trial. PREDIMED-Plus is an ongoing clinical trial (Trial registration: ISRCTN89898) conducted in Spain that includes 6874 older participants (mean age 65 y, 48% women) with overweight/obesity fulfilling at least three criteria for MetS. Data for this analysis were collected at baseline, six months and one year. Adherence to the Portfolio and DASH diet scores were derived from a validated 143-item food frequency questionnaire. We used linear mixed models to examine the associations of 1-SD increase and quartile changes in the diet scores with concomitant changes in cardiometabolic risk factors. After adjusting for several potential confounders, a 1-SD increase in the Portfolio diet score was significantly associated with lower HbA1c (β [95% CI]: −0.02% [−0.02, −0.01], P < 0.001), fasting glucose (−0.47 mg/dL [−0.83, −0.11], P = 0.01), triglycerides (−1.29 mg/dL [−2.31, −0.28], P = 0.01), waist circumference (WC) (−0.51 cm [−0.59, −0.43], P < 0.001), and body mass index (BMI) (−0.17 kg/m2 [−0.19, −0.15], P < 0.001). A 1-SD increase in the DASH diet score was significantly associated with lower HbA1c (−0.03% [−0.04, −0.02], P < 0.001), glucose (−0.84 mg/dL [−1.18, −0.51], P < 0.001), triglycerides (−3.38 mg/dL [−4.37, −2.38], P < 0.001), non-HDL-cholesterol (−0.47 mg/dL [−0.91, −0.04], P = 0.03), WC (−0.69 cm [−0.76, −0.60 cm], P < 0.001), BMI (−0.25 kg/m2 [−0.28, −0.26 kg/m2], P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (−0.57 mmHg [−0.81, −0.32 mmHg], P < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (−0.15 mmHg [−0.29, −0.01 mmHg], P = 0.03), and with higher HDL-cholesterol (0.21 mg/dL [0.09, 0.34 mg/dL, P = 0.001]). Similar associations were seen when both diet scores were assessed as quartiles, comparing extreme categories of adherence. Among older adults at high cardiovascular risk with MetS, greater adherence to the Portfolio and DASH diets showed significant favourable prospective associations with several clinically relevant cardiometabolic risk factors. Both diets are likely beneficial for cardiometabolic risk reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies, mainly focused on quantity rather than variety, have shown beneficial associations between the amount of fruit and vegetable consumed, diet quality and healthy lifestyle. The aim is to evaluate the association between fruit and vegetable consumption, diet quality and lifestyle in an elderly Mediterranean population, considering both variety and the combination of quantity and variety (QV). A cross-sectional analysis of 6647 participants (51.6% of males) was conducted in the framework of the PREDIMED-Plus study. A variety score was created as the sum of vegetables and/or fruits consumed at least once per month using food frequency questionnaires. Dietary Reference Intakes (EAR and IA values) were used to estimate the prevalence of inadequate intake of dietary fiber and micronutrients. Logistic regression models were performed to examine the association between fruit and vegetable consumption and not meeting the DRIs, by tertiles of fruit and vegetable variety and QV categories. Participants with higher fruit and vegetable variety score reported a significant higher intake of fiber, vitamins, minerals and flavonoids and were significantly more likely to be physically active and non-smoker. Besides, higher variety in fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with lower prevalence of having an inadequate intake of fiber [(0.13 (0.11–0.16)], two or more [(0.17 (0.14–0.21)], three or more [(0.15 (0.13–0.18)] and four or more [(0.11 (0.10–0.14)] micronutrients in our participants. Higher quantity and variety in fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with lower prevalence of having an inadequate intake of fiber [(0.05 (0.04–0.06)], two or more [(0.08 (0.06–0.10)], three or more [(0.08 (0.06–0.09)] and four or more [(0.06 (0.05–0.07)] micronutrients. Greater variety in fruit and vegetable intake was associated with better nutrient adequacy, diet quality and healthier lifestyle in an elderly Mediterranean population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited prospective evidence on the association between physical activity (PA) and inflammation in older adults. Our aim was to assess the associations between changes in PA and changes in the inflammatory profile in older individuals who are overweight or obese. This prospective study included 489 men and women, aged 55–75 years, from the PREDIMED-Plus trial. Levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), interleukin 18 (IL-18), monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1 (MCP-1), C-peptide, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), leptin, and regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted chemokine (RANTES) were obtained from fasting blood samples and a composite inflammatory score based on these biomarkers was calculated. Physical activity was measured by a validated questionnaire. All measures were taken at baseline and one-year follow-up. Multiple linear regression models showed an association between an increase in total PA and a decrease in the inflammatory score (p = 0.012), which was particularly driven by a decrease in C-peptide (p = 0.037). Similarly, the inflammatory score decreased with increasing moderate PA (p = 0.001), and moderate-to-vigorous PA (p = 0.006). Increases in total PA, moderate and moderate-to-vigorous PA were associated with a decrease in the inflammatory profile of obese or overweight older individuals. This finding is relevant for PA recommendations and public health strategies. Clinical trial identifier: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial 89898870. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Socioeconomic disparities and lifestyle factors are likely to determine the overall quality of the diet. In addition, overeating is compatible with inadequate micronutrient intake and it can lead to adverse health outcomes. To assess adequacy of dietary nutrient intake and to investigate the influence of socioeconomic and lifestyle factors on nutrient density in a large primary cardiovascular prevention trial conducted in healthy participants with metabolic syndrome (MetS) to assess the cardiovascular effects of an energy-restricted Mediterranean diet (PREDIMED-Plus). Baseline cross-sectional analysis of the PREDIMED-Plus trial with 6646 Spanish participants (aged 55–75 years in men and 60–75 years in women) with overweight/obesity and MetS. Energy and nutrient intake (for 10 nutrients) were calculated using a validated 143-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and nutrient density was estimated dividing the absolute nutrient intake by total energy intake. The prevalence of inadequate intake was estimated according to dietary reference intakes. Multivariable linear regression models were fitted to examine associations between socioeconomic status or lifestyle factors and nutrient density. A considerable proportion of the screened participants showed a deficient intake of vitamins A, D, E, B 9 , calcium, magnesium and dietary fibre. Inadequate intake of four or more of the ten nutrients considered was present in 17% of participants. A higher nutrient density was directly and significantly associated with female sex, higher educational level and a better adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Lifestyle factors such as non-smoking and avoidance of sedentary lifestyles were also independently associated with better nutrient density. Patients with MetS, despite being overweight, exhibited suboptimal nutrient intake, especially among men. Low nutrient density diet can be largely explained by differences in socioeconomic and lifestyle factors. These results highlight the importance of focussing on nutritional education in vulnerable populations, taking into account nutrient requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Overall quality of dietary carbohydrate intake rather than total carbohydrate intake may determine the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Objective We examined 6- and 12-mo changes in carbohydrate quality index (CQI) and concurrent changes in several CVD risk factors in a multicenter, randomized, primary-prevention trial (PREDIMED-Plus) based on an intensive weight-loss lifestyle intervention program. Methods Prospective analysis of 5373 overweight/obese Spanish adults (aged 55–75 y) with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Dietary intake information obtained from a validated 143-item semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire was used to calculate 6- and 12-mo changes in CQI (categorized in quintiles), based on 4 criteria (total dietary fiber intake, glycemic index, whole grain/total grain ratio, and solid carbohydrate/total carbohydrate ratio). The outcomes were changes in intermediate markers of CVD. Results During the 12-mo follow-up, the majority of participants improved their CQI by increasing their consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, and nuts and decreasing their consumption of refined cereals, added sugars, and sugar-sweetened beverages. After 6 mo, body weight, waist circumference (WC), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglyceride levels, triglycerides and glucose (TyG) index, and TyG-WC decreased across successive quintiles of improvement in the CQI. After 12 mo, improvements were additionally observed for HDL cholesterol and for the ratio of total to HDL cholesterol. Favorable improvements (expressed in common units of SD and 95% CI) for quintile 5 compared with quintile 1 of CQI change were observed for most risk factors, including TyG-WC (SD −0.20; 95% CI −0.26, −0.15), HbA1c (SD −0.16; 95% CI −0.23, −0.10), weight (SD −0.12; 95% CI −0.14, −0.09), systolic BP (SD −0.11; 95% CI −0.19, −0.02) and diastolic BP (SD −0.11; 95% CI −0.19, −0.04). Conclusions Improvements in CQI were strongly associated with concurrent favorable CVD risk factor changes maintained over time in overweight/obese adults with MetS. This trial was registered as ISRCTN 89898870. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Española de Cardiología (18855857) is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper describes an integrated model-based monitoring framework for leakage localization in district-metered areas (DMA) of water distribution networks, which takes advantage of the availability of a hydraulic model of the network. The leakage localization methodology is based on the use of flow and pressure sensors at the DMA inlets and a limited number of pressure sensors deployed inside the DMA. The placement of these sensors has been computed using an optimal sensor placement method based on a Genetic Algorithm optimization, which integrates the direct modelling approach (simulation) used to identify the location of leaks. The application of the resulting monitoring framework in a certain DMA of the Barcelona distribution network is provided and discussed using simulated leakage scenarios. The obtained results show that leakage detection and localization may be performed efficiently, reducing the required time for detection/localization, by following a simple procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Background & aims There is little evidence on post hoc -derived dietary patterns (DP) and all-cause mortality in Southern-European populations. Furthermore, the potential effect modification of a DP by a nutritional intervention has not been sufficiently assessed. We assessed the association between a posteriori defined baseline major DP and total mortality or cardiovascular events within each of the three arms of a large primary prevention trial (PREDIMED) where participants were randomized to two active interventions with Mediterranean-type diets or to a control group (allocated to a low-fat diet). Design We followed-up 7216 participants for a median of 4.3 years. A validated 137-item food-frequency questionnaire was administered. Baseline DP were ascertained through factor analysis based on 34 predefined groups. Cox regression models were used to estimate multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) for cardiovascular disease (CVD) or mortality across quartiles of DP within each of the three arms of the trial. Results We identified two major baseline DP: the first DP was rich in red and processed meats, alcohol, refined grains and whole dairy products and was labeled Western dietary pattern (WDP). The second DP corresponded to a “Mediterranean-type” dietary pattern (MDP). During follow-up, 328 participants died. After controlling for potential confounders, higher baseline adherence to the MDP was associated with lower risk of CVD (adjusted HR for fourth vs. first quartile: 0.52; 95% CI (Confidence Interval): 0.36, 0.74; p -trend <0.001) and all-cause mortality (adjusted HR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.38, 0.75; p -trend <0.001), regardless of the allocated arm of the trial. An increasing mortality rate was found across increasing quartiles of the WDP in the control group (allocated to a low-fat diet), though the linear trend was not statistically significant ( p = 0.098). Conclusions Higher adherence to an empirically-derived MDP at baseline was associated with a reduced risk of CVD and mortality in the PREDIMED trial regardless of the allocated arm. The WDP was not associated with higher risk of mortality or cardiovascular events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a model-driven decision-support system (software tool) implementing a model-based methodology for on-line leakage detection and localization which is useful for a large class of water distribution networks. Since these methods present a certain degree of complexity which limits their use to experts, the proposed software tool focuses on the integration of a method emphasizing its use by water network managers as a decision support system. The proposed software tool integrates a model-based leakage localization methodology based on the use of on-line telemetry information, as well as a water network calibrated hydraulic model. The application of the resulting decision support software tool in a district metered area (DMA) of the Barcelona distribution network is provided and discussed. The obtained results show that the leakage detection and localization may be performed efficiently reducing the required time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper we propose a new dynamic model, based on quaternions, for tensegrity systems of class-1. Quaternions are used to represent orientations of a rigid body in the 3-dimensional space eliminating the problem of singularities. Moreover, the equations based on quaternions allow to perform more precise calculations and simulations because they do not use trigonometric functions for the representation of angles. We present a thorough introduction of tensegrities and the current state of research. We also introduce the quaternions and provide in the appendix some important details and useful properties. Applying the Euler–Lagrange approach we derive a comprehensive dynamic model, first for a simple rigid bar in the space and, at last, for a class-1 tensegrity system. We present two model forms: a matrix and a vectorial form. The first more compact and easier to write, the latter more suitable to apply the tools and the theory based on vector fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The main objective of this paper is two-fold. First, to conclude the overview about tensegrity frameworks, started by the same authors in a previous work, covering the most important dynamic aspects of such structures. Here, the most common approaches to tensegrity dynamic modeling used so far are presented, giving the most important results about their dynamic behavior under external action. Also, the main underlying problems are identified which allow the authors to give a clear picture of the main research lines currently open, as well as the most relevant contributions in each of them, which is in fact the second main objective of this paper. From the extensive literature available on the subject, four main areas have been identified: design and form-finding methods which deal with the problem of finding stable configurations, shape changing algorithms which deal with the problem of finding stable trajectories between them and, also control algorithms which take into account the dynamic model of the tensegrity structure and possible external perturbations to achieve the desired goal and performance. Finally, some applications of such structures are presented emphasizing the increasing interest of the scientific community on tensegrity structures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper hands in a review of the basic issues about the statics of tensegrity structures. Definitions and notation for the most important concepts, borrowed from the vast existing literature, are summarized. All of these concepts and definitions provide a complete mathematical framework to analyze the rigidity and stability properties of tensegrity structures from three different, but related, points of view: motions, forces and energy approaches. Several rigidity and stability definitions are presented in this paper and hierarchically ordered, from the strongest condition of infinitesimal rigidity to the more wide concept of simple rigidity, so extending some previous classifications already available. Important theorems regarding the relationship between these definitions are also put together to complete the static overview of tensegrity structures. Examples of different tensegrity structures belonging to each of the rigidity and stability categories presented are described and analyzed. Concluding the static analysis of tensegrity structures, a review of existing form-finding methods is presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: We assessed associations between sociodemographic and lifestyle factors and dietary quality among adolescents.Methods: Subjects were 445 adolescents (171 boys, 274 girls; 14 to 18 y old) selected from the Palma de Mallorca (Balearic Islands, Spain) school census (96% participation) using two-stage probability sampling. The study protocol included dietary intake by means of a validated semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire; sociodemographic factors of sex, maternal level of education, parental occupational status, and maternal region of origin; physical activity; and body weight and height measurements. Body mass index was calculated and energy intake expressed as multiples of basal metabolic rate.Results: Mean daily energy intakes were 12.9 MJ for boys and 12.0 MJ for girls. Boys showed a higher percentage of energy from carbohydrates but a lower percentage from proteins and fat than did girls (44.9 versus 41.6, 18.8 versus 19.8, and 36.3 versus 38.5, respectively). Dietary fiber intake was within the recommended levels. Mineral and vitamin intakes generally met their estimated needs, except for vitamins A and D, which covered less than two-thirds of the recommended intake. Maternal educational level was positively correlated with dietary mineral and vitamin intakes. A positive relation between physical activity and dietary intakes of carbohydrate and of mineral and vitamin was found.Conclusions: Maternal level of education and physical activity are associated to the quality of diet among adolescents in Palma de Mallorca. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been suggested as important biomolecules in the management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of 6-month weight loss diets on erythrocyte membrane omega-3 PUFA composition of NAFLD adults, and to evaluate the potential relationship between erythrocyte membrane omega-3 PUFAs and hepatic health markers. In this secondary analysis of the Fatty Liver in Obesity study, erythrocyte membranes were analyzed by gas chromatography in 54 subjects with liver steatosis detected by ultrasonography who achieved a weight loss >5% after the follow-up. Baseline and 6-month evaluation included hepatic acoustic radiation force impulse elastography and magnetic resonance imaging, anthropometry, body composition, and biochemical determinations. After the follow-up, α-linolenic acid (ALA) proportion significantly increased in erythrocyte membranes, whereas eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) showed no statistical difference and docosapentaenoic acid decreased. Both the changes in erythrocyte membrane ALA and EPA were positively associated with dietary ALA. Regression analyses evidenced that the changes in erythrocyte membrane ALA and EPA were inversely associated with the changes in liver stiffness and liver iron content, respectively. The adherence to weight loss strategies for 6 months led to changes in erythrocyte membrane omega-3 PUFA composition, which in turn were associated with changes in hepatic markers, suggesting that these fatty acids accompany the improvements in the liver during a dietary treatment. These findings show that beyond weight loss, the composition of the diet has an important role in the management of NAFLD. • Erythrocyte membrane omega-3 proportions changed after 6-month weight loss diets. • Changes in erythrocyte membrane ALA and EPA were associated with changes in diet. • Changes in erythrocyte membrane ALA and liver stiffness were inversely associated. • Changes in erythrocyte membrane EPA and liver iron were inversely associated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition is a key factor in determining exercise response. The aim of this review is to assess the response to exercise in older adults who take supplements of antioxidants and/or omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. A systematic literature search was performed (June 2009- September 2019) in MEDLINE via Pubmed. The following search strategy was used with Boolean markers: ("omega-3 fatty acids" [Major] OR "antioxidants" [Major]) AND "exercise" AND "aged" [MesH]. Fourteen articles were finally included. Exercise-induced free radical and inflammatory marker blood levels, but not changed the plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC), after administration of antioxidant supplement. The oral administration of antioxidants produced null or negative effect on endothelial function, but the infusion into the brachial artery during rhythmic handgrip exercise produced a significant improvement in muscle blood flow, due to an on increase in the availability of nitric acid derived from the nitric oxide synthase. Aerobic exercise and antioxidant supplementation improved submaximal and maximal aerobic parameters, as well as mitochondrial density and mitochondria-regulated apoptotic signaling. Antioxidant supplementation, but not omega-3 PUFA, decreased pro-inflammatory marker levels and fat oxidation induced by exercise. Strength training decreased serum B 12 concentration but combined with omega-3 PUFA or antioxidant supplementation, B 12 levels were maintained. Antioxidant supplementation has protective effect after fatigue in isometric exercise but improved appendicular fat-free mass just combined with resistance exercise. Omega-3 fatty acid supplement combined with exercise increased lean mass in women, but not in men. Muscle damage induced by exercise is protected by antioxidant supplementation. Older people who take antioxidant and/or omega-3 PUFA supplements showed improved exercise response, as well as lower muscle damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive oil and components might have a beneficial effect on Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). The aim of this review and meta-analysis was to assess whether those effects are related to hydroxytyrosol or oleic acid contents, or the combination of them as olive oil, and how powerful is this effect. A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE via Pubmed, Web of Science (WOS) core collection, and Virtual Health Library (VHL) via LILACS and IBECS (Spain). MeSH terms used were "obesity", "body weight", "body mass index", "adipose tissue", "lipid metabolism", "LDL", "HDL", "VLDL", "insulin resistance", "glucose", "insulin", "hypertension", "arterial pressure", "olive oil", "oleic acid", and other (non-MeSH) terms: "total antioxidant capacity", "total antioxidant status", "hydroxytyrosol" (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021247614). Results of the included studies were meta-analyzed with the RevMan 5.3 program, assuming a random effects model. 76 articles (67 different trials) were identified. Hydroxytyrosol had no effect on MetS [combined standardized mean differences (SMD) = 0.01 (CI 95%: [-0.23, 0.25], I2 = 83%; p = 0.920)]. Oleic acid had no significant beneficial effect on MetS [SMD = 0.03 (CI 95%: [-0.01, 0.07], I2 = 0%); p = 0.150], but it improved lipid profile [SMD = 0.06 (CI 95%: [-0.00, 0.12], I2 = 0%); p = 0. 050]. Olive oil had no effect on MetS [SMD = −0.01 (CI 95%: [-0.05, 0.03]), I2 = 55%; p = 0.550)]. The supplementation with hydroxytyrosol, oleic acid or olive oil showed a beneficial effect on antioxidant capacity related to components of MetS [SMD = 0.31 (CI 95%: [-0.34, 0.95], I2 = 81%)]; p = 0.35). Most articles compared olive oil and oleic acid with other strategies specially designed for MetS management. Our findings suggest that olive oil or oleic acid consumption are as good as the other strategies to manage MetS. [Display omitted] • Effects of hydroxytyrosol/oleic acid/olive oil on metabolic syndrome were assessed. • Olive oil/oleic acid consumption is as good as other strategy for MetS management. • The available evidence does not allow conclusions on hydroxytyrosol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Eggs, fish and seafood, and fruits and vegetables contributed the most to the PFOS dietary intake. • Dietary intake of PFOS was associated with fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c at baseline. • Dietary intake of PFOS was associated with an increase in HOMA-IR and BMI after 1-year of follow-up. Endocrine disruptors (EDs) have emerged as potential contributors to the development of type-2 diabetes. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), is one of these EDs linked with chronic diseases and gathered attention due to its widespread in food. To assess at baseline and after 1-year of follow-up associations between estimated dietary intake (DI) of PFOS, and glucose homeostasis parameters and body-mass-index (BMI) in a senior population of 4600 non-diabetic participants from the PREDIMED-plus study. Multivariable linear regression models were conducted to assess associations between baseline PFOS-DI at lower bound (LB) and upper bound (UB) established by the EFSA, glucose homeostasis parameters and BMI. Compared to those in the lowest tertile, participants in the highest tertile of baseline PFOS-DI in LB and UB showed higher levels of HbA1c [β-coefficient(CI)] [0.01 %(0.002 to 0.026), and [0.06 mg/dL(0.026 to 0.087), both p-trend ≤ 0.001], and fasting plasma glucose in the LB PFOS-DI [1.05 mg/dL(0.050 to 2.046),p-trend = 0.022]. Prospectively, a positive association between LB of PFOS-DI and BMI [0.06 kg/m2(0.014 to 0.106) per 1-SD increment of energy-adjusted PFOS-DI was shown. Participants in the top tertile showed an increase in HOMA-IR [0.06(0.016 to 0.097), p-trend = 0.005] compared to participants in the reference tertile after 1-year of follow-up. This is the first study to explore the association between DI of PFOS and glucose homeostasis. In this study, a high baseline DI of PFOS was associated with a higher levels of fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c and with an increase in HOMA-IR and BMI after 1-year of follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proportion of fat has increased at the expense of carbohydrates in the past years, and we aimed to assess total fat and fatty acids intake and their food sources among Mediterranean older adults and compare them to national and international recommendations. This study was conducted in 211 participants to determine lipid and fatty acid intake using a Spanish food database. The mean daily intake of lipids was 68.6 g/d (standard deviation [SD]: 24.6; 34.4%, SD: 7.0 of total energy consumed). Men, younger participants, and those with higher education ingested more lipids than their peers. Fatty acids were ingested as follows (expressed as percentage of total energy intake): monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (16.7%, SD: 4.1), saturated fatty acids (SFA) (9.6%, SD: 2.6), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (5.0%, SD: 1.7). Oils and seeds were the highest contributors in the intake of lipids (38.8%, SD: 16.0), MUFA (53.9%, SD: 18.7), and PUFA (33.0%, SD: 16.4). The total fat intake (34.4%, SD: 7.0) was within the range of International and Spanish recommendations among Mediterranean older adults; however, the intake of fatty acids did not abide by the international (PUFA) and Spanish recommendations (SFA, MUFA). α -Linoleic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid intake were lower than recommendations, but cholesterol intake (243.9 mg, SD: 140.4) was within the range of recommendations. Therefore, public health campaigns are needed to encourage older adults to decrease SFA intake and increase adherence to the Mediterranean diet pattern for a better health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Depression has been linked to a large and growing economic and societal burden worldwide. In Europe, depression is one of the most frequent mental disorders across all age groups, but particularly in people aged 65 years and over, and higher depressive symptoms have been reported among individuals with chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes and heart disease). Aim To evaluate the role of adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) in depression in a sample of older people living in the Mediterranean basin. Methods Standard procedures were used to determine socio-demographic, lifestyle, and clinical characteristics of the participants, as well as their dietary habits, and depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Multi-adjusted logistic and linear regression analyses were carried out to evaluate the associations between participants' characteristics and depression. Results Participants classified as having mild or severe depression were less educated and physically active, and more diabetic, and they reported less adherence to the MedDiet. Adherence to the MedDiet was associated with the absence of depression [(OR, 95% CI): 0.65, 0.50−0.85]. In addition, daily tea drinking was also related to the absence of depression [(OR, 95% CI): 0.51, 0.40−0.65]. Conclusions Greater adherence to the MedDiet and daily tea drinking seem to have a beneficial effect on depressive symptoms in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background To evaluate modifiable, lifestyle risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among older adults, across ageing, in the Mediterranean area. Methods During 2005–2017, 3131 individuals from 26 Mediterranean islands of 5 countries, ≥65 years of age, were voluntarily enrolled. Anthropometrical, clinical and socio-demographic characteristics, dietary habits, lifestyle parameters were measured through standard procedures. Analyses were performed by year and across consecutive age groups of the participants. Results A decrease in the prevalence of current smoking ( p  < 0.001), engagement in physical activities ( p  = 0.001) and participation in social events ( p  = 0.001) for every year increase in age was found. Moderate alcohol drinking increased through ageing ( p  = 0.008), whereas adherence to Mediterranean diet remained stable, but adequate ( p  = 0.90). Trend analysis also revealed that a quadratic (U-shape) function better characterized the association between ageing and total cardiometabolic risk factors burden ( p for trend <0.001). Conclusions The gaps in the understanding of factors affecting longevity and healthy ageing remain; public health authorities and stakeholders should focus on the lifestyle determinants of healthy ageing, that seems to be an effective mean for improving older peoples' health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of the present work was to evaluate the relation between car use and the level of successful aging of a random sample of older adults living in the Mediterranean basin.Methods: During 2005-2011, 2749 older (aged 65-100 years) from 22 islands and the rural Mani region (Peloponnesus) of Greece were voluntarily enrolled in the Mediterranean islands cross-sectional study. Sociodemographics, medical conditions, and dietary and lifestyle habits were derived throughout standard procedures. Car use was recorded with a standard binary question. A successful aging index ranging from 0-10 was used.Results: Older adults who used a car on regular basis had significantly higher levels of successful aging, as well as less prevalence of obesity and hypertension while were more physically active (P < .001). After adjusting for several confounders car use was still positively related with elderly islander's successful aging level (beta coefficient [95% confidence interval]: 0.65 [0.54-0.77]).Conclusions: In conclusion, the activity of car use seems to be an indicator of quality of life among older adults, as measured through successful aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]