Reviewing and Appraising a Scientific Research Paper

Reviewing and Appraising a Scientific Research Paper

Introduction

Researchers have found that a strong connection exists between the outcomes of the elderly age and Omega 3 fatty acids.. There are only two controlled or randomized trials are found up to date which have assessed the effect of Omega 3 and its constituents on the cognitive functions. The effects of the n-3 LC PUFA supplement on the cognitive ability of the individual are still in progress. The article which has been selected is a randomized control trial.

Aim of the Article

The main objective behind this study is to provide knowledge about the potential effects of the n-3 LC PUFAs which can slow the cognitive functioning of normal individual in old age where the ApoE-e4 allele acts as a moderating factor. The primary aim of the study also includes examining the efficacy of fish oil supplement on the slow cognitive decline in the adults.

Design

It is a scientific research comprises of the experimental methodology. The sub design type used in this research study is correlation design in which there is an experimental group and a control group, both these groups are examined by the researcher for expected outcomes.

The research design was selected randomly, double blinded and placebo-control groups were added in the study design. The secondary aim behind the research design was to examine the relationship between the fn-3 LC PUFA intake measures and the cognitive measures at the base line. It also aimed to find out the effect of fn-3 LC PUFA supplement by the intake of the ApoE-e4 allele or other psychological, health related or nutritional factors connected with the cognitive process in the elderly age. This study also aims to examine the intervention's effects on the well being and functional capacity and to examine the relationship between the LC PUFA and well being at the base line trial.

Participants of the Study

The participants who were studied in this research are Australian natives. The total number of participants was 391 in which 60% were females between the ages of 65 and 90. The participants were with normal cognitive system and English speaking.

Criteria for participation

The participants for the study were selected after a complete recruitment. The first and foremost requirement for taking part in the study was age, only those individuals who are under the age of 65 and 90 are eligible to take part. Participants were asked to not to take oil-fish supplement during the course of study and if they have exposed to any injury in the past by the intake of n-3 fish oil supplement and if they are taking any medications can not take part in the research.

Screening of the Participants

The process of getting participant's information was also taken place. The participants who agreed voluntarily to take part in the research were given questionnaires in which they were asked to provide demographic and contact information.

The allocation of the intervention was blindly followed in the study and the participants were asked to randomly choose a number of studies ...