Approaching Economic Issues through Epidemiology–An Introduction to Business Epidemiology

In the tradition of transferring models and concepts from one science to another, our research explores the possibility of importing some concepts, definitions and approaches from human epidemiology to economic research, based on the extensive usage of medical terms and concepts in economy. The article explores some basic epidemiology concepts and their possible relevance to economic research, with the final goal to provide a new viewpoint over the economic phenomena, usable in economic crisis. The article introduces the concept of “business epidemiology” as a possible scientific approach to the economic crisis.epidemiology; business disease; company health; research methodology; financial contagion

Xyloglucan for the Treatment of Acute Gastroenteritis in Children: Results of a Randomized, Controlled, Clinical Trial

Background. Xyloglucan, a film-forming agent, improves intestinal mucosa resistance to pathologic damage. The efficacy, safety, and time of onset of the antidiarrheal effect of xyloglucan were assessed in children with acute gastroenteritis receiving oral rehydration solution (ORS). Methods. This randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel-group, multicenter, clinical trial included children (3 months–12 years) with acute gastroenteritis of infectious origin. Children were randomized to xyloglucan and ORS, or ORS only, for 5 days. Diarrheal symptoms, including stool number/characteristics, and safety were assessed at baseline and after 2 and 5 days and by fulfillment of a parent diary card. Results. Thirty-six patients (58.33% girls) were included (n=18/group). Patients receiving xyloglucan and ORS had better symptom evolution than ORS-only recipients, with a faster onset of action. At 6 hours, xyloglucan produced a significantly greater decrease in the number of type 7 stools (0.11 versus 0.44; P=0.027). At days 3 and 5, xyloglucan also produced a significantly greater reduction in types 6 and 7 stools compared with ORS alone. Xyloglucan plus ORS was safe and well tolerated. Conclusions. Xyloglucan is an efficacious and safe option for the treatment of acute gastroenteritis in children, with a rapid onset of action in reducing diarrheal symptoms. This study is registered with ISRCTN number 65893282

The combination of oligo- and polysaccharides and reticulated protein for the control of symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: Results of a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel group, multicentre clinical trial

Background: A medical device containing the film-forming agent reticulated protein and a prebiotic mixture of vegetable oligo- and polysaccharides has been developed, recently receiving European approval as MED class III for the treatment of chronic/functional or recidivant diarrhoea due to different causes including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In the present paper, we evaluate a protein preparation containing these components in comparison with placebo in adult patients with diarrhoea-predominant IBS. Methods: In a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel group, multicentre clinical trial, patients were randomly assigned to receive the combination of oligo- and polysaccharides and reticulated protein and placebo (four oral tablets/day for 56 days). Demographic, clinical and quality of life characteristics and presence and intensity of abdominal pain and flatulence (seven-point Likert scale) were assessed at three study visits (baseline and at 28 and 56 days). Stool emissions were recorded on the diary card using the seven-point Bristol Stool Scale. Results: A total of 128 patients were randomised to receive either tablets containing the combination (n = 63) or placebo (n = 65). Treatment with oligo- and polysaccharides and reticulated protein was safe and well tolerated. A significant improvement in symptoms across the study was observed in patients treated with oligo- and polysaccharides and reticulated protein between visit 2 and visit 3 in abdominal pain (p = 0.0167) and flatulence (p = 0.0373). We also detected a statistically significant increase in the quality of life of patients receiving the active treatment from baseline to visit 3 (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Treatment with oligo- and polysaccharides and reticulated protein is safe, improving IBS symptoms and quality of life of patients with diarrhoea-predominant IBS. Keywords: Irritable bowel syndrome; abdominal pain; efficacy; flatulence; mucosal protectors; quality of life; reticulated protein; stools; vegetable oligo-saccharides; vegetable polysaccharides

Xyloglucan for the treatment of acute diarrhea: results of a randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel group, multicentre, national clinical trial

Background: There is a strong rationale for the use of agents with film-forming protective properties, like xyloglucan, for the treatment of acute diarrhea. However, few data from clinical trials are available. Methods: A randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel group, multicentre, clinical trial was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of xyloglucan, in comparison with diosmectite and Saccharomyces in adult patients with acute diarrhea due to different causes. Patients were randomized to receive a 3-day treatment. Symptoms (stools type, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and flatulence) were assessed by a self-administered ad-hoc questionnaire 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h following the first dose administration. Adverse events were also recorded. Results: A total of 150 patients (69.3 % women and 30.7 % men, mean age 47.3 ± 14.7 years) were included (n = 50 in each group). A faster onset of action was observed in the xyloglucan group compared with the diosmectite and S. bouliardii groups. At 6 h xyloglucan produced a statistically significant higher decrease in the mean number of type 6 and 7 stools compared with diosmectite (p = 0.031). Xyloglucan was the most efficient treatment in reducing the percentage of patients with nausea throughout the study period, particularly during the first hours (from 26 % at baseline to 4 % after 6 and 12 h). An important improvement of vomiting was observed in all three treatment groups. Xyloglucan was more effective than diosmectite and S. bouliardii in reducing abdominal pain, with a constant improvement observed throughout the study. The clinical evolution of flatulence followed similar patterns in the three groups, with continuous improvement of the symptom. All treatments were well tolerated, without reported adverse events. Conclusions: Xyloglucan is a fast, efficacious and safe option for the treatment of acute diarrhea. Trial registration: EudraCT number 2014-001814-24 (date: 2014-04-28) ISRCTN number: 9031182

Comparing groups for statistical differences: how to choose the right statistical test?

Odabir pravog statističkog testa može ponekad predstavljati veliki izazov za početnika na polju biostatistike. Ovaj članak opisuje postupak odabira testa za procjenu statističke značajnosti razlike između dvije ili više skupina. Potrebno je, primjerice, znati kojim tipom podataka raspolažemo (nominalni, ordinalni, intervalni/omjerni), kako su podaci organizirani, koliko je uzoraka/skupina i radi li se o zavisnim ili nezavisnim uzorcima. Također treba znati slijede li podaci iz populacije Gaussovu ras-podjelu ili ne. Ključno je pitanje treba li se u slučaju kad su ispunjeni svi uvjeti primijeniti jednosmjerni ili dvosmjerni test, pri čemu je bitno napomenuti da drugi test ima jaču statističku snagu. Ispravan pristup postupku odabira testa prikazan je u obliku pitanja i odgovora, kako bi se korisniku pružilo bolje razumijevanje osnovnog koncepta. Neki od neophodnih osnovnih koncepata su: statističko zaključivanje, statističko ispitivanje hipoteze, koraci neophodni za primjenu statističkog testa, parametrijski testovi nasuprot neparametrijskim te jednosmjerni nasuprot dvosmjernim testovima itd. U završnom dijelu članka predložit ćemo algoritam za odabir testa, koji se temelji na ispravnom postupniku za izbor statistič kog testa u svrhu statistič ke usporedbe jedne, dviju ili više skupina, kako bi pokazali praktičnu primjenu osnovnih koncepata. Za neki drugi članak ostavit ćemo neke vrlo osporavane koncepte kao što su izrazito visoke ili izrazito niske vrijednosti i njihov utjecaj u statističkoj analizi, utjecaj vrijednosti koje nedostaju itd.Choosing the right statistical test may at times, be a very challenging task for a beginner in the field of biostatistics. This article will present a step by step guide about the test selection process used to compare two or more groups for statistical differences. We will need to know, for example, the type (nominal, ordinal, interval/ratio) of data we have, how the data are organized, how many sample/groups we have to deal with and if they are paired or unpaired. Also, we have to ask ourselves if the data are drawn from a Gaussian on non-Gaussian population. A key question is, if the proper conditions are met, should a one-tailed test or two-tailed test be used, the latter typically being the most powerful choice. The appropriate approach is presented in a Q/A (Question/Answer) manner to provide to the user an easier understanding of the basic concepts necessary to fulfill this task. Some of the necessary fundamental concepts are: statistical inference, statistical hypothesis tests, the steps required to apply a statistical test, parametric versus nonparametric tests, one tailed versus two tailed tests etc. In the final part of the article, a test selection algorithm will be proposed, based on a proper statistical decision-tree for the statistical comparison of one, two or more groups, for the purpose of demonstrating the practical application of the fundamental concepts. Some much disputed concepts will remain to be discussed in other future articles, such as outliers and their influence in statistical analysis, the impact of missing data and so on

Xyloglucan for the treatment of actue diarrhea: results of a randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel group, multicentre, national clinical trial

Background: There is a strong rationale for the use of agents with film-forming protective properties, like xyloglucan, for the treatment of acute diarrhea. However, few data from clinical trials are available. Methods: A randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel group, multicentre, clinical trial was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of xyloglucan, in comparison with diosmectite and Saccharomyces in adult patients with acute diarrhea due to different causes. Patients were randomized to receive a 3-day treatment. Symptoms (stools type, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and flatulence) were assessed by a self-administered ad-hoc questionnaire 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h following the first dose administration. Adverse events were also recorded. Results: A total of 150 patients (69.3 % women and 30.7 % men, mean age 47.3 ± 14.7 years) were included (n = 50 in each group). A faster onset of action was observed in the xyloglucan group compared with the diosmectite and S. bouliardii groups. At 6 h xyloglucan produced a statistically significant higher decrease in the mean number of type 6 and 7 stools compared with diosmectite (p = 0.031). Xyloglucan was the most efficient treatment in reducing the percentage of patients with nausea throughout the study period, particularly during the first hours (from 26 % at baseline to 4 % after 6 and 12 h). An important improvement of vomiting was observed in all three treatment groups. Xyloglucan was more effective than diosmectite and S. bouliardii in reducing abdominal pain, with a constant improvement observed throughout the study. The clinical evolution of flatulence followed similar patterns in the three groups, with continuous improvement of the symptom. All treatments were well tolerated, without reported adverse events. Conclusions: Xyloglucan is a fast, efficacious and safe option for the treatment of acute diarrhea

Evaluation of a Web-based Online Grant Application Review Solution

This paper focuses on the evaluation of a web-based application used in grant application evaluations, software developed in our university, and underlines the need for simple solutions, based on recent technology, specifically tailored to one’s needs. We asked the reviewers to answer a short questionnaire, in order to assess their satisfaction with such a web-based grant application evaluation solution. All 20 reviewers accepted to answer the questionnaire, which contained 8 closed items (YES/NO answers) related to reviewer’s previous experience in evaluating grant applications, previous use of such software solutions and his familiarity in using computer systems. The presented web-based application, evaluated by the users, shown a high level of acceptance and those respondents stated that they are willing to use such a solution in the future

Xyloglucan for the treatment of acute gastroenteritis in children: results of a randomized controlled, clinical trial

Background. Xyloglucan, a film-forming agent, improves intestinal mucosa resistance to pathologic damage. The efficacy, safety, and time of onset of the antidiarrheal effect of xyloglucan were assessed in children with acute gastroenteritis receiving oral rehydration solution (ORS). Methods. This randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel-group, multicenter, clinical trial included children (3 months-12 years) with acute gastroenteritis of infectious origin. Children were randomized to xyloglucan and ORS, or ORS only, for 5 days. Diarrheal symptoms, including stool number/characteristics, and safety were assessed at baseline and after 2 and 5 days and by fulfillment of a parent diary card. Results. Thirty-six patients (58.33% girls) were included (n = 18/group). Patients receiving xyloglucan and ORS had better symptom evolution than ORS-only recipients, with a faster onset of action. At 6 hours, xyloglucan produced a significantly greater decrease in the number of type 7 stools (0.11 versus 0.44; P = 0.027). At days 3 and 5, xyloglucan also produced a significantly greater reduction in types 6 and 7 stools compared with ORS alone. Xyloglucan plus ORS was safe and well tolerated. Conclusions. Xyloglucan is an efficacious and safe option for the treatment of acute gastroenteritis in children, with a rapid onset of action in reducing diarrheal symptoms. This study is registered with ISRCTN number 65893282

Xyloglucan for the treatment of actue diarrhea: results of a randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel group, multicentre, national clinical trial

Background: There is a strong rationale for the use of agents with film-forming protective properties, like xyloglucan, for the treatment of acute diarrhea. However, few data from clinical trials are available. Methods: A randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel group, multicentre, clinical trial was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of xyloglucan, in comparison with diosmectite and Saccharomyces in adult patients with acute diarrhea due to different causes. Patients were randomized to receive a 3-day treatment. Symptoms (stools type, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and flatulence) were assessed by a self-administered ad-hoc questionnaire 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h following the first dose administration. Adverse events were also recorded. Results: A total of 150 patients (69.3 % women and 30.7 % men, mean age 47.3 ± 14.7 years) were included (n = 50 in each group). A faster onset of action was observed in the xyloglucan group compared with the diosmectite and S. bouliardii groups. At 6 h xyloglucan produced a statistically significant higher decrease in the mean number of type 6 and 7 stools compared with diosmectite (p = 0.031). Xyloglucan was the most efficient treatment in reducing the percentage of patients with nausea throughout the study period, particularly during the first hours (from 26 % at baseline to 4 % after 6 and 12 h). An important improvement of vomiting was observed in all three treatment groups. Xyloglucan was more effective than diosmectite and S. bouliardii in reducing abdominal pain, with a constant improvement observed throughout the study. The clinical evolution of flatulence followed similar patterns in the three groups, with continuous improvement of the symptom. All treatments were well tolerated, without reported adverse events. Conclusions: Xyloglucan is a fast, efficacious and safe option for the treatment of acute diarrhea