The value of neuraminidase inhibitors for the prevention and treatment of seasonal influenza: a systematic review of systematic reviews.

Controversy has arisen regarding the effectiveness of neuraminidase inhibitors (NIs), especially against influenza-related complications. A literature search was performed to critically assess the evidence collected by the available systematic reviews (SRs) regarding the benefits and disadvantages of NIs (oseltamivir, zanamivir) compared to placebos in healthy and at-risk individuals of all ages for prophylaxis and treatment of seasonal influenza. A SR was done using the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Health Technology Assessment Database, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, and Medline (January 2006-July 2012).

The additional value of bioelectrical impedance analysis-derived muscle mass as a screening tool in geriatric assessment for fall prevention.

Background: The decline in skeletal muscle in old age is a factor in the development of functional limitations.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess if there is a correlation between muscle mass based on bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) detection and the fall incidence in nursing home residents and to examine the risk factors for falling in nursing home residents.

Methods: This prospective cohort study was part of a longitudinal study on nutritional issues in 52 nursing homes in Antwerp (Belgium) from October 2007 to April 2008.

Efficacy of daily intake of Lactobacillus casei Shirota on respiratory symptoms and influenza vaccination immune response: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in healthy elderly nursing home residents.

Background: Age is associated with immune dysregulation, which results in an increased infection rate and reduced effectiveness of vaccination.

Objective: We assessed whether an intervention with Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) in elderly nursing home residents reduced their susceptibility to respiratory symptoms and improved their immune response to influenza vaccination.

Design: Between October 2007 and April 2008, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 737 healthy people aged ≥ 65 y in 53 nursing homes in Antwerp, Belgium.

Screening Belgian university students for Chlamydia trachomatis infection: a feasibility study.

Unlabelled: In this study we examine the attainability and usefulness of opportunistic screening for Chlamydia trachomatis infection based on self-assessed risk, among university students in Belgium.

Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was filled out by students (n = 243, 77.8% female, 22.