bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Contributing to Motor Impairment and Recovery after Stroke
Authors: Heddings Archie A. , Friel Kathleen M. , Plautz Erik J. , Barbay Scott , Nudo Randolph J.
Published: November 2015

The goal of the present study was to examine factors affecting motor impairment and recovery in a primate model of cortical infarction. Microelectrode stimulation techniques were used to delineate the hand representation in the primary motor cortex (M1). Microinfarcts affecting ∼30% of the hand representation were made by electrocoagulation of surface vessels. Electrophysiologic procedures were repeated at 1 month after the infarct to examine changes in motor map topography. Before the infarct, and at ∼ 1 week (early period) and 1 month (late period) after the infarct, manual performance was assessed on a reach-and-retrieval task that required skilled use of the digits. Contrary to the expected outcome, early impairment was inversely related to the amount of digit representation destroyed by the infarct. That is, animals with less involvement of the M1 digit area demonstrated the greatest motor deficit in the early postinfarct period. In addition, improvement in motor performance between early and late postinfarct periods was directly related to a decrease in the extent of the digit + wrist/forearm area in the final postinfarct map. These results suggest that specific aspects of motor-map remodeling are expressions of adaptive mechanisms that underlie functional recovery after stroke. Further, they suggest that the adaptive mechanisms underlying postinjury recovery differ in detail from those that operate in normal motor learning. The potential role of compensatory mechanisms in these phenomena is discussed.
Effects of Sacrocaudal Spinal Cord Transection and Transplantation of Fetal Spinal Tissue on Withdrawal Reflexes of the Tail
Authors: Friedman Robert M. , Ritz Louis A. , Reier Paul J. , Vierck Charles J.
Published: November 2015

Reflex responses to electrocutaneous stimulation of the tail were characterized in awake cats, before and after transection of the spinal cord at sacrocaudal levels S3-Ca1 Consistent with effects of spinal transection at higher levels, postoperative cutaneous reflexes were initially depressed, and the tail was flaccid. Recovery ensued over the course of 70–90 days after sacrocaudal transection. Preoperative and chronic postlesion reflexes elicited by electrocutaneous stimulation were graded in amplitude as a function of stimulus intensity. Chronic postlesion testing of electrocutaneous reflexes revealed greater than normal peak amplitudes, peak latencies, total amplitudes (power), and durations, particularly for higher stimulus intensities. Thus, sacrocaudal transection produced effects representative of the spastic syndrome. In contrast, exaggerated reflex responsivity did not develop for a group of cats that received transplants of fetal spinal cord tissue within sacrocaudal transection cavities at the time of injury, in conjunction with long-term immunosuppression by cyclosporine. We conclude that gray matter replacement and potential neuroprotective actions of the grafts and/or immunosuppression prevent development of the spastic syndrome. This argues that the spastic syndrome does not result entirely from interruption of long spinal pathways.
Auditory Evoked Response Data Reduction by PCA: Development of Variables Sensitive to Reading Disability
Authors: Duffy Frank H. , Valencia Ignacio , McAnulty Gloria B. , Waber Deborah P.
Published: November 2015

Long latency auditory evoked responses (AER) were formed on 232 healthy normal and learning impaired subjects to tone pairs of 50 msec inter-stimulus interval (TALAER) and also to the words “tight” and “tyke” (TTAER). Both evoked potential (EP) types have been used to demonstrate differences between good readers (WIAT Basic Reading score > 115, N=42) and poor readers (Reading score < 85, N=42). A largely automated, hands off approach was used to reduce artifact contamination, to develop canonical measures for discriminating good from poor readers, and to predict reading scores across the entire population including intermediate (average) readers. Eye and muscle artifact were diminished by multiple regression. Substantial EP data reduction was enabled by an unrestricted use of Principal Components Analysis (PCA). For each EP type, 40 factors encompassed 70–80% of initial variance, a meaningful data reduction of about 90:1. Factor interpretation was enhanced by mapping of the factor loadings. By discriminant analysis, resulting factors predicted reading group membership with over 80% jackknifed and also split-half replication accuracy. By multiple regression, they produced a canonical variate correlating significantly (p<0.001) with the Basic Reading score (r=0.39). The TTAER factors were more useful than the TALAER factors. The relevance of rapid auditory processing and phonemic discrimination measurements to dyslexia is discussed.
Subacute Encephalopathy with Seizures in Chronic Alcoholism (SESA Syndrome)
Authors: Rothmeier J. , Friese M. , Willemsen F. , Froescher W.
Published: November 2015

Report of a case of SESA syndrome: a rare CNS complication of chronic alcoholism, known since 19811 and characterized by epileptic seizures, multiple and reversible neurological deficits, as well as PLEDs in the EEG. The MRI showed enhanced occipital signals in the T2-weighted sequence, which resolved together with the clinical findings.
Predicting Outcome in Acute Stroke: A Comparison between QEEG and the Canadian Neurological Scale
Authors: Cuspineda E. , Machado C. , Aubert E. , Galán L. , Liopis F. , Avila Y.
Published: November 2015

Objective:

To determine and compare the predictive value of quantitative EEG (QEEG) and the Canadian Neurological Scale (CaNS), in patients with an acute cerebral stroke.

Methodology:

Twenty-eight patients were studied with the diagnosis of acute ischemic middle cerebral artery stroke, within the first 72 hours of clinical evolution. Thirty-seven EEGs and clinical evaluations were collected: 13 during the first 24 hours after stroke onset, 9 between 24–48 hours and 15 between 48–72 hours. The QEEG studied variables were: the Z values (maximum, minimum and the Z medians from the 5 nearest points to each one) of absolute energies (AE) from the 4 classic frequencies bands. The clinical scale showed a smaller percent of correct prognosis than QEEG variables.

Conclusions:

QEEG was demonstrated to be a powerful tool to predict the degree of residual functional disabilities after an acute ischemic stroke and showed a higher prognostic value than CaNS when they are performed within the first 72 hours of brain infarct.
The Frontal Arousal Rhythm (FAR) is an Ictal Pattern: A Case Report
Authors: Hughes John R.
Published: November 2015

This paper deals with a patient with the Frontal Arousal Rhythm (FAR), a rare rhythmic pattern usually seen in young children awakening from sleep, with a history of seizures. In this patient, subtle clinical changes were observed on the video during the pattern, consisting of a sequence of brief eye lid flutter, chewing, increased inspiration and upper lip quivering. This exact sequence was seen on three successive occasions lasting for 6, 9, and 10 sec. The conclusion is the FAR is not just a sign of seizure disorder, but is actually an ictal pattern.
Emergent Electroencephalogram in the Intensive Care Unit: Indications and Diagnostic Yield
Authors: Varelas Panayiotis N. , Hacein-Bey Lotfi , Hether Tammy , Terranova Brenda , Spanaki Marianna V.
Published: November 2015

Our aim was to study the frequency and reasons an emergent electroencephalogram (EmEEG) is ordered in the ICUs compared to the hospital ward, examine its usefulness and find predictive variables for its results.

We retrospectively identified all electroencephalograms ordered between December 1997 and March 2002 and performed within 1 hour. Tthe tests ordered from four ICUs were compared with those ordered from the Ward beds, and predictive models were developed for the results based on clinical variables. We also compared the EmEEGs ordered by the Neuro-ICU to those from the other Units.

The ICUs ordered 129 (49.4%) of all EmEEGs during the study period. The NICU ordered 32 tests. The most frequent reason for obtaining the test was to rule out status epilepticus (68.2%). The NICU ordered more frequently the test to exclude non-convulsive status than the other ICUs. Compared to non-ICU, ICU patients with head trauma or post cardiopulmonary arrest had more tests and patients with stroke fewer. Convulsive status epilepticus and generalized slowing were found more frequently in the ICUs, and normal EEG, interictal epileptiform activity or focal non-epileptic slowing were more frequent in the non-ICU cases. In at least 12.4% of ICU patients, the test was expected to lead to an anti-epileptic management change. Cardiopulmonary arrest and age were predictive of any epileptic activity on the EEG in ICU patients.

In conclusion, in our institution EmEEG is ordered by the ICUs in two thirds of the cases to exclude status epilepticus. Although status epilepticus is confirmed more frequently in the ICUs than on the Ward, the most frequent finding remains generalized slowing, which is found in half of the ICU-ordered EmEEGs. A conservative estimation is that EmEEG will lead to medication change in at least 1 out of 8 ICU patients. Cardioopulmonary arrest is predictive of epileptic activity and a prolonged EmEEG may also increase the yield.
Paper Recordings of Ultrafast Frequencies in Experimental Epilepsy
Authors: Rodin E.
Published: November 2015

Digital EEG technology has facilitated the recording of fast activity above 50 Hz, but previous work carried out in this field is, commonly, no longer referred to in the literature. This paper presents a summary of our experience in experimental epilepsy when frequencies above 100 Hz were recorded. It was shown that conventional recordings (1–70 Hz) do not correlate with the onset of clinical seizures and can actually lead to misleading neurophysiologic conclusions. Ultrafast activity (100–1500 Hz), on the other hand, showed excellent correlation with clinical behavior and pointed to the low brainstem for the origin of nonfocal tonic-clonic seizures. In the animal analogue of absence seizures the cortex, including cingulate gyrus, thalamus, and cerebellum, showed greater involvement than other brain structures.

Ultrafast activity has a very limited electrical field, and evoked responses remain restricted to the corresponding sensory pathways. Focal penicillin administration led not only to spike generation but also to associated ultrafast frequency bursts in that area. It appears likely that ultrafast burst activity may be a better marker for focal cortical epileptogenesis than spikes or sharp waves, which can be transmitted from a distance.
Gut Microbiota and Obesity
Authors: White Nicole D.
Published: November 2015

The gut bacteria model attributes obesity to the variable makeup of gut microbiota and its ability to modulate host energy homeostasis, adiposity and inflammation. To counteract these deleterious effects, strains of probiotics have been developed to manipulate gut microbiomes and improve health. The current article explores the mechanisms by which gut microbiota modulate host metabolism and highlights recent human study data assessing the effects of probiotic supplementation on the prevention and treatment of obesity.
Finding Food Sources of Vitamin A and Provitamin A
Authors: Kuhnlein Harriet V.
Published: November 2015

Food-based programmes have the potential to effect long-term and sustainable solutions to the problem of vitamin A deficiency. Dietary sources of vitamin A and provitamin A, including natural and fortified food, are multiple and include a variety of plants, animals, and their fats and oils. These may be available to the community or the individual routinely or only seasonally, and their effectiveness in vitamin A nutrition is dependent on a host of issues affecting bioavailability and other health and nutrition circumstances. Procedures are now attainable to define the holistic framework of local availability and cultural acceptability of vitamin A–containing food, and the perceptions and other factors that influence its harvest, preparation, preservation, and consumption. This kind of information is essential to bring behavioural change in dietary patterns to improve vitamin A status. A wealth of information on vitamin A– and provitamin A–rich food species exists within traditional food systems of indigenous peoples. Research to scientifically define these foods, their vitamin A contents, and constraints on availability and cultural acceptability will benefit food-based strategies to prevent and alleviate vitamin A deficiency.
Increasing the production and consumption of vitamin A–rich fruits and vegetables: Lessons learned in taking the Bangladesh homestead gardening programme to a national scale
Authors: Talukder Aminuzzaman , Kiess Lynnda , Huq Nasreen , de Pee Saskia , Darnton-Hill Ian , Bloem Martin W.
Published: November 2015

Micronutrient malnutrition affects more than 20 million children and women (at least 50% of this population) in Bangladesh. the diets of more than 85% of women and children in Bangladesh are inadequate in essential micronutrients such as vitamin A, largely because adequate amounts of foods containing these micronutrients are not available, or the household purchasing power for these foods is inadequate. in Bangladesh and many other developing countries, large-scale programmes are needed to make a significant impact on this overwhelming malnutrition problem. There has been limited experience and success in expanding small-scale pilot programmes into large-scale, community-based programmes. This paper describes the development and expansion of the Bangladesh homestead gardening programme, which has successfully increased the availability and consumption of vitamin A–rich foods. the programme, implemented by Helen Keller International through partnerships with local non-governmental organizations, encourages improvements in existing gardening practices, such as promotion of year-round gardening and increased varieties of fruits and vegetables. We present our experience with the targeted programme beneficiaries, but we have observed that neighbouring households also benefit from the programme. Although this spillover effect amplifies the benefit, it also makes an evaluation of the impact more difficult. the lessons learned during the development and expansion of this community-based programme are presented. There is a need for an innovative pilot programme, strong collaborative partnerships with local organizations, and continuous monitoring and evaluation of programme experiences. the expansion has occurred with a high degree of flexibility in programme implementation, which has helped to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme. in addition to highlighting the success of this programme, useful insights about how to develop and scale up other food-based programmes as well as programmes in other development sectors are provided.
Socio-economic Differentials in Child Stunting are Consistently Larger in Urban than in Rural Areas
Authors: Menon Purnima , Ruel Marie T. , Morris Saul S.
Published: November 2015

Urban–rural comparisons of childhood undernutrition suggest that urban populations are better off than rural populations. However, these comparisons could mask the large differentials that exist between socio-economic groups in urban areas. Data from the Demographic and Health Surveys for 11 countries from three regions were used to test the hypothesis that intra-urban differentials in child stunting are greater than intra-rural differentials, and that the prevalence of stunting among the urban and the rural poor is equally high. A socio-economic status (SES) index based on household assets, housing quality, and availability of services was created separately for rural and urban areas of each country, using principal components analysis. Odds ratios (OR) were computed to estimate the magnitude of differentials in stunting (height-for-age Z scores < −2) between urban and rural areas and between the lowest and highest SES quintiles within areas. The prevalence of stunting was lower in urban than in rural areas for all countries, but rural–urban odds ratios were relatively small (< 3.3). As hypothesized, the gap between low and high SES was markedly larger in urban (median OR, 4) than rural (median OR, 1.8) areas, and differentials were statistically significant (interaction between area and SES in logistic regression) in all but three countries. Within-urban ORs as high as 10 were found in Peru and the Dominican Republic, whereas within-rural ORs were smaller than 3.5, except in Brazil. In most countries, stunting in the poorest urban quintile was almost the same as that among poor rural dwellers. Thus, malnutrition in urban areas continues to be of concern, and effective targeting of nutrition programmes to the poorest segments of the urban population will be critical to their success and cost-effectiveness.
Use of Mango Mesocarp Flour to Enrich the Provitamin A Content of a Complementary Food Blend of Maize and Soya Bean Flours for Porridge
Authors: Badifu G. I. O. , Ilochi J. C. , Dutse J. V. , Akpapunam M. A.
Published: November 2015

This study used locally available raw materials to enrich the contents of provitamin A (β-carotene) and other nutrients in a maize-based traditional complementary food for infants and pre-school children in Benue State, Nigeria. Fermented maize, dehulled soya bean, and sliced mango mesocarp were dried in a mobile wooden solar cabinet dryer (65°–70°C) to a moisture level of 8% to 10%. The dried products were milled separately. Blends containing different proportions of the flours were prepared to determine the most appropriate blend for preparing porridge, which was tested by sensory evaluation. The most appropriate blend consisted of 55% maize, 25% soya bean, and 20% mango flour (blend B). Its β-carotene content was 233 μg/100 g. The β-carotene contents of other blends were 199 μg/100g for 60% maize, 25% soya bean, and 15% mango (blend C), and 158 μg/100 g for 70% maize and 30% soya bean (blend A), whereas that of traditional maize akamu was 67 μg/100 g. The provitamin A retention percentages were 89% for blend A, 92% for blend B, 91% for blend C, and 88% for akamu. A healthy, well-fed infant 6 to 11 months of age is expected to consume 200 to 300 ml of the porridge, which provides 13 to 20 μg of retinol activity, compared with 1 to 2 μg of retinol activity expected from akamu. The porridge prepared with blend B was organoleptically acceptable. Detailed nutrient composition, including essential amino acids, was determined.
Improving Human Nutrition through Agricultural Research: Overview and Objectives
Authors: Pinstrup-Andersen Per
Published: November 2015

There has been little dialogue in the past between agricultural scientists and human nutritionists to explore ways to solve the problem of malnutrition in developing countries together. This conference, held at an agricultural research center in a developing country, provides a unique opportunity to have such a dialogue. About one-half of the 95 in attendance are trained as human nutritionists, and nearly an equal number are plant scientists.

International agricultural research has made a major contribution to growth in food supplies in developing countries. It is widely recognized that lowering the prices of food staples has had a tremendously beneficial impact in alleviating malnutrition. However, the magnitude of micronutrient malnutrition as a public health concern, and the crucial role of poor dietary quality as an underlying cause, have now become widely recognized. Does agriculture have an equally important role to play in addressing micronutrient malnutrition as it has had in alleviating low energy intakes? It is at this crossroads that this conference meets.

Formally, the conference has been convened as a meeting of scientists from the 16 centres that comprise the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), with the objectives of taking stock of human nutrition-related research at CGIAR centres, determining research gaps and priorities for future CGIAR research, and identifying opportunities for outside collaboration and cooperation. A three-day conference agenda is designed to accomplish these goals, while at the same time allowing a general discussion of agriculture–nutrition linkages with partners from outside the CGIAR.
Overcoming Micronutrient Deficiencies in Developing Countries: Is There a Role for Agriculture?
Authors: Underwood Barbara A.
Published: November 2015

Severe forms of protein–energy malnutrition still occur, but they are associated most commonly with devastating natural disasters and civil unrest. With the exception of sub-Saharan Africa, progress in combating chronic undernutrition is also occurring. The prevalence of vitamin and mineral deficiencies has also declined in nearly all countries, although the pace is slow for some micronutrient deficiencies, particularly iron-deficiency anaemia.

Nevertheless, the prevalence rates of micronutrient malnutrition remain high, with devastating consequences for health, cognition, and productivity. Much remains to be done, particularly in reducing iron, zinc, and vitamin A deficiencies, which up to the present have largely been attacked by using a medical model that relies on the distribution of supplements. Supplements are effective but are expensive in terms of the support devoted to repetitive use of scarce health manpower. Fortification can work in some places. Education and awareness of the public is crucial. The public must not be considered only as the target of imposed interventions. Civil society must become engaged in the process, with the goal of their becoming demanding consumers, participating in the action to achieve micronutrient adequacy.

Sustaining the progress that has been achieved will depend on underpinning the medical model with food-based approaches that address multiple nutrient and phytochemical needs for optimal health. Agriculture, by investing in the Green Revolution, can rightly be credited for its contribution to reducing food shortages and the protein–energy malnutrition problem. A similar opportunity exists now for agriculture to invest in developing more micronutrient-dense staple crops, while not neglecting continued research on the production of livestock and small animals, fish, vegetables, and legumes.
Reducing Micronutrient Malnutrition: Policies, Programmes, Issues, and Prospects—dietary Diversification through Food Production and Nutrition Education
Authors: Bayani Elsa M.
Published: November 2015

This paper presents the Philippine experience in implementing the Home, School, and Community Food Production (HSCFP) and Nutrition Education impact programmes of the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN). It describes some of the HSCFP and Nutrition Education models, programmes, and projects that have been implemented to address micronutrient malnutrition. When possible, the paper also presents indications of programme effectiveness. Some evaluation studies have proven the effectiveness of these models in improving either nutritional status or levels of knowledge and practice of nutrition. The lessons learned in implementing these models have also left a wealth of experience to build on. Sustaining and going to scale with these models are major challenges to be overcome for both the HSCFP and the Nutrition Education impact programmes. The paper stresses that addressing micronutrient malnutrition cannot be isolated from efforts to ensure food security. Thus, agricultural research should always have a nutritional perspective or mindset that automatically asks, “What would be the potential positive and negative effects on nutritional problems? On groups most affected by malnutrition?”
Comments on Possible Contributions of the Philippine Agricultural Research System to Improving Human Nutrition
Authors: Juliano Bienvenido
Published: November 2015

The Philippine agricultural research system already collaborates with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) on evaluation of iron-dense rice lines in areas of mutual interest and expertise, particularly in the field testing of the lines developed at IRRI. High and stable grain yields are required of these lines if they are to receive approval for release. If lines are to be released for their superior nutritional content, then higher levels of micronutrient content and demonstrable bioavailability also need to be established.
Micronutrient Interventions: Options for Africa
Authors: Smith Ifeyironwa Francisca
Published: November 2015

In recent years, increasing attention has been drawn to the relatively slow pace of progress in intervention efforts against micronutrient deficiencies in sub-Saharan Africa. Recent data indicate that the problem of micronutrient deficiencies remains severe, a situation compounded by inadequacy of institutional capacities and resources required for implementing well-defined control strategies. Supplementation programmes started in earnest after the 1992 International Conference on Nutrition. More recently, there has been an increase in the rate of coverage of vitamin A supplementation of children under five years of age, attributed to the integration of vitamin A capsule distribution into national immunization days. However, a major constraint to vitamin A capsule delivery is a poorly functioning health infrastructure. Transportation facilities are poor, and there are shortages of equipment and trained personnel.

Food fortification, which was initially not considered a front-line approach because of the lack of infrastructural facilities in most countries, is currently being pursued with new ideas for adapting existing technologies to local resources and needs. Early attempts at developing food-based strategies involved promoting the production and consumption of vitamin A– rich foods as well as encouraging small-scale animal production. A major shortcoming of these earlier food-based interventions is a lack of quantifiable and convincing data demonstrating impact. There is a growing movement to involve women in intervention programmes. Africa is primarily agrarian. Micronutrient intervention efforts have not fully exploited the untapped potential of the existing food systems and the immense human resources of the agricultural sector.
Agriculture–nutrition Linkages and the US Department of Agriculture: A Global View
Authors: Schneeman Barbara O. , Kennedy Eileen
Published: November 2015

The Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) system, like the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), has been successful in using research to improve the yield and efficiency of food systems. Our systems must now move beyond a focus on simply producing enough food to address fundamental issues of how to make the food system better able to meet the nutritional needs of consumers and contribute to sustainable environmental quality. Success in this endeavour will be determined by multidisciplinary research efforts. This is an area where more specific collaboration between the CGIAR and the USDA will be essential. The USDA Agricultural Research Service has been experimenting with these multidisciplinary partnerships for at least 60 years. Some examples from USDA's experience are given.
Decision to Fluoridate. 2. Intake of Fluoride from Nonmilk Fluids by Children under two Years of Age in Lebanon
Authors: Jurdi Mey , Said Dima Abi , Kambris Mona Al Kouatly
Published: November 2015

This study investigated fluoride intake from fluids consumed by children 0 to 2 years of age residing in urban and rural areas in Lebanon. An area sample of 150 families with children was selected from Beirut and three villages in the Shouf Area in Mount Lebanon (70 and 80 families, respectively). Food diaries for two weekdays and one weekend day were obtained for children aged 0 to 2 years in urban and rural areas (76 and 85 children, respectively), and their fluoride intake from fluids was assessed. Children were given tea, anise, mint, and mixed herbal teas for various reasons, such as their medicinal, warming, and calming effects. They were also given orange flower water, orange juice, and rice water. In urban areas, the fluoride intakes from fluids, expressed as percentages of the estimated safe and adequate (ESA) intake of fluoride, were 48.5% among children 0 to 6 months old, 110.5% among those 7 to 12 months old, 21.9% among those 13 to 18 months old, and 43.5% among those 19 to 24 months old. In rural areas, the ESA fluoride intake from teas was 180.9%, 115.9%, 102.0%, and 71.5% for children aged 0 to 6 months, 7 to 12 months, 13 to 18 months, and 19 to 24 months, respectively. In view of the substantial level of intake of fluoride from nonmilk fluids among children in this study, decisions regarding water fluoridation in Lebanon should consider these results.
Zinc Deficiency, Immune Function, and Morbidity and Mortality from Infectious Disease among Children in Developing Countries
Authors: Black Robert E.
Published: November 2015

Zinc deficiency is prevalent in developing countries and has adverse effects on child health. Decreased or abnormal immune function in children can occur as a consequence of zinc deficiency, either during gestation or after delivery, and may impair host defenses against infectious diseases. Controlled trials of therapy of acute and persistent diarrhea have consistently demonstrated that zinc-supplemented children have diarrheal episodes of shorter duration and reduced severity. Controlled trials of zinc supplementation in the prevention of infectious diseases have demonstrated reductions in the incidences of diarrhea, pneumonia, and malaria, the most common causes of death in children in developing countries. Preliminary evidence from one controlled trial in full-term small-for-gestational-age infants in India found a two-thirds reduction in mortality with zinc supplementation. In conclusion, zinc deficiency reduces immune function and increases the risk of morbidity and mortality from infectious disease in children in developing countries.
Zinc Enrichment of Cereal Staples
Authors: Ranum Peter
Published: November 2015

General fortification of cereal staples, such as wheat flour and maize meal, has proven to be a cost-effective method to reduce micronutrient deficiencies. Recent recognition of the problem of zinc deficiency has led to its being included in newly started cereal-enrichment programs in Indonesia and Mexico and in a cereal-fortification program being proposed for South Africa. The amount of zinc added in these programs is 20 to 30 ppm. Zinc oxide is currently the preferred source because it has the lowest cost and produces less flavor change than zinc acetate and zinc sulfate. This article reviews the use of different zinc salts as fortificants, considering their possible effects on product quality and bioavailability, recommended levels of fortification with estimated effects on zinc consumption, and current fortification programs with cost estimates.
Vitamin A and Carotenoid Toxicity
Authors: Blomhoff Rune
Published: November 2015

Large differences in time and dose needed to induce hypervitaminosis A have been observed. High doses of vitamin A in food and oily solutions are well tolerated, whereas emulsified preparations have higher toxicity. Chronic hypervitaminosis seems to be induced following daily doses of 300,000 to 600,000 IU of vitamin A (90–180 mg of retinol) in oily preparations for many months or years, whereas teratogenicity may be induced by daily doses as low as 40,000 IU of vitamin A (12 mg of retinol) in oil during the first trimester. for the provitamin A, β-carotene, serious adverse effects have been reported in large-scale prospective randomized trials: four years of supplementation with 20 to 30 mg β-carotene per day was associated with increased risk of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease among smokers and workers exposed to asbestos. These results strongly suggest that high doses of β-carotene should not be recommended for any group until the safety of such doses can be established.
Fortification of Common Nigerian Food-Cassava Meals
Authors: Asonye Canice Chukwuemeka
Published: November 2015

Cassava is the popular name of the tuberous plant Manihot esculenta. The tubers can be processed into products ranging from gari, akpu (fufu) or chikwangue, lafun (cassava flour), cassava cakes, and tapioca to alcoholic drinks (brukutu or cassava beer). The various types of cassava meals provide about 65% of total calorie intake of the poor of Nigeria and indeed of sub-Saharan Africa. Gari can be consumed in various forms, including flakes or made into a dough-like paste called eba and consumed with soup or sauce. Micronutrient deficiencies are common in areas where cassava is the main staple. Although supplementation is useful, it is not the solution to the elimination of micronutrient deficiency disorders in Africa because of numerous shortcomings, such as cost, transportation difficulties, and poor compliance. The simplest and most sustainable approach is fortification of staple foods with limiting micronutrients. Our pilot studies indicate that gari and lafun can be easily fortified with vitamin A and with B vitamins, as well as the minerals, iron, iodine, zinc, and calcium. It is our goal to develop feasible means of fortifying cassava for the benefit of the poor population of Nigeria and as an example for other cassava-consuming regions.
Regional Study of Nutritional Status of Urban Primary Schoolchildren. 3. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Tee E-Siong , Khor Swan-Choo , Ooi Hoon-Eng , Young Swee-Ing , Zakiyah Omar , Zulkafli Hamzah
Published: November 2015

A total of 5,995 children (7.8% of all 7- to 10-year-old primary schoolchildren in Kuala Lumpur), randomly selected from 166 schools (97.6% of all schools), were measured for their weight and height. the analyses of all weight and height data, including the cutoffs used for defining stunting, underweight, and wasting and for thinness and overweight, were carried out as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). the prevalences of stunting (height-for-age Z score < −2 SD), underweight (weight-for-age Z score < −2 SD) and wasting (weight-for-height Z score < −2 SD) among all the children studied were 6.7%, 7.1%, and 4.5%, respectively. Undernutrition among boys was more serious than among girls according to all three indicators. Because it was not possible to analyze the weight-for-height data for most of the children above 8.5 years of age, body mass index (BMI)-for-age was used to determine the prevalences of thinness and overweight for all the children. Based on the reference data, the prevalence of overweight (at or above the 95th percentile) was 9.7% and 7.1% for boys and girls, respectively, and 8.4% overall.
Control of Vitamin A Deficiency in Vietnam: Achievements and Future Orientation
Authors: Khan Nguyen Cong , Khoi Ha Huy , Giay Tu , Nhan Nguyen Trong , Nhan Nguyen Thu , Dung Nguyen Chi , Thang Hoang Viet , Dien Dao Ngoc , Luy Hoang Thi
Published: November 2015

Vitamin A deficiency is one of the major nutritional deficiencies in Vietnam. the first survey, conducted in 1985–1988 showed that the prevalence of severe xerophthalmia was seven times higher than the cutoff point established by the World Health Organization (WHO) to define vitamin A deficiency as a public health problem. the result of this survey strongly convinced the government to launch a program to control vitamin A deficiency, which started in 1988. the program strategies included nutrition education, universal distribution of high-dose vitamin A capsules to children aged 6 to 36 months in combination with national immunization days, and promotion of production and consumption of vitamin A–rich foods at the family level. the implementation network was set up based on the existing preventive health structure at all administrative levels. Organizations such as the women's union and other social sectors have participated actively in the program. Surveys conducted in 1994 and 1998 showed that the prevalence of clinical xerophthalmia was significantly lower than that identified in the baseline survey and below the WHO criteria for a public health problem. the achievements of our program have demonstrated that an effective vitamin A supplementation program can be implemented successfully by the preventive health network with active community participation. in the coming years, it will be important for our program to develop approaches other than vitamin A supplementation in order to maintain the past achievements.
The Monetary Value of Human Milk in Francophone West Africa: A Profiles Analysis for Nutrition Policy Communication
Authors: Aguayo Víctor M. , Ross Jay
Published: November 2015

Using a simple and conservative methodology, we estimated the volume and monetary value of the human milk produced by lactating women in Francophone West Africa. in that region, children zero to 35.9 months old consume over 1.1 billion liters of human milk per year. However, suboptimal breastfeeding practices account for the loss of 175 million liters of human milk annually. If the human milk consumed by children zero to 35.9 months old were to be adequately replaced using commercial breastmilk substitutes, an annual expenditure of about 2 billion US dollars would be needed. At the household level, the annual replacement cost of human milk would amount to US$412 per infant. This is beyond the reach of most families in West Africa, where as many as 61% of families in some countries live on less than one US dollar per day. Appropriate policies to foster breastfeeding need to be developed and adequately implemented. Such policy action is more likely to occur if decision makers fully appreciate the monetary value of human milk.
Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status of Young Children in Families Practicing Mixed Home Gardening in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Schipani Steven , van der Haar Frits , Sinawat Sangsom , Maleevong Kandavasee
Published: November 2015

One current initiative to assist rural Thai families to increase home food production and security is the implementation of home gardens that produce fish, small animals, and vegetables. This paper presents the results of an investigation comparing seasonal dietary intake and nutritional status among northeastern Thai children in mixed-gardening and nongardening families (n = 30 for each group). Assignment to the gardening group was based on the presence of a mixed garden, whereas nongardening subjects were randomly selected and matched for comparison. Statistical analysis (paired t- test) indicated that there was no significant difference in the observed biochemical variables (serum retinol, ferritin, hemoglobin) between groups at the p ≤ . 05 level. Nutritional status in regard to height-for-weight, weight-for-age, and weight-for-height Z scores was better among children of gardening families, although the differences were not significant. the small sample size and reported results indicate that the relationship between the practice of mixed home gardening and dietary intake and nutritional status needs further investigation.
Possible use of spreads as a FOODlet for improving the diets of infants and young children
Authors: Briend André
Published: November 2015

Spreads are high-viscosity fat products prepared by mixing dried powdered ingredients with a vegetable fat chosen for its viscosity. Spreads are not traditionally used for feeding infants or young children and were initially proposed for feeding severely malnourished children during the recovery phase. The advantages of these products include a high energy and nutrient density, a very good acceptability, and resistance to bacterial contamination. Adapted spreads could be designed to boost the nutritional density of diets of young children from poor communities. Spreads could be mixed with the meals or porridges traditionally given to infants or eaten by themselves as snacks. Formulation of spread products is flexible, and acceptability and efficacy trials are required to optimize their composition and fortification levels and to select the best-adapted ingredients for each setting.
Iodine Fortification is Related to Increased Weight-forage and Birthweight in Children in Asia
Authors: Mason J. B. , Deitchler M. , Gilman A. , Gillenwater K. , Shuaib M. , Hotchkiss D. , Mason K. , Mock N. , Sethuraman K.
Published: November 2015

Severe iodine deficiency causes stunting and mental retardation in utero, but the relation between mild deficiency and child growth is not well known. The use of iodated salt in relation to anthropometric data was examined from recent survey data. After potential confounding factors had been controlled for, significant associations were seen in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The use of iodated salt was related to increased weight-for-age and mid-upper-arm circumference, most strongly in the second year of life, mainly affecting soft tissue (thinness). The relation with weight-for-age was greater among children of mothers with lower body mass index. The use of iodated salt was related to birthweight in Sri Lanka and in the Philippines, where iodated oil capsules given during pregnancy had a negative effect when used with high levels of iodine in salt. The associations generally were concentrated in large geographic areas, possibly because of interactions with other environmental factors (e.g., selenium and arsenic). The apparent growth response to iodine may reflect functional effects of mild deficiency, which is widespread, possibly including effects on brain development.
Food Security in Latin America
Authors: Chávez Adolfo , Muñoz Miriam
Published: November 2015

Although the nutrition situation in most Latin American countries is improving and malnutrition is easing, worrisome factors are emerging. Huge rural-to-urban migrations have been accompanied by a worsening nutrition situation in rural populations, especially in Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil, a phenomenon not readily apparent from average food availability and malnutrition data. Average figures can also mask the severe nutrition problems that persist in four densely populated areas: the Caribbean Islands, Central America, the andean region, and parts of Brazil. Although globalization is improving the nutritional status of many population groups in Latin America, it is also creating new pressures. Latin American countries dependent on agriculture are especially vulnerable.
Relationship between Waist Circumference and Blood Pressure among the Population in Baghdad, Iraq
Authors: Tawfeek Haifa
Published: November 2015

We studied the relationship between waist circumference and hypertension among the Iraqi population in Baghdad. the study was carried out during 1999–2000. Body weight, height, waist circumference, and blood pressure were measured. According to multivariate analyses that included control for age and body mass index, waist circumference for men was positively and significantly correlated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.31 for systolic pressure and r = 0.30 for diastolic pressure; p < .009). for women, the correlations were r = 0.39 for systolic and r = 0.40 for diastolic pressure (p < .001). Intervention programs designed to reduce waist circumference may have significant public health significance in reducing the incidence of hypertension.
Participation in Labor-Intensive Public Works Program (Lipwp): Effect on Staple Crop Production in Southeastern Botswana
Authors: Gobotswang Kesitegile S. M. , Marks Geoffry C. , O'Rourke Peter
Published: November 2015

A labor-intensive public works program (LIPWP) aims to improve the income of rural households. One of the common criticisms of the LIPWP is that it is a disincentive for staple crop production. This study, conducted between February and May 2000, examined the association between participation in an LIPWP and staple crop production in southeastern Botswana. Participant households were those with at least one member on a semipermanent LIPWP. A control group was drawn from households that were eligible to participate in the LIPWP. All participants in the LIPWP were included, while nonparticipant households were randomly selected. A structured questionnaire was administered to 160 control and 153 participant households. the odds of having no staple crop in the control group were 1.8 times (95% CI, 0.98 to 3.54) higher than that of the LIPWP participants (p = . 087), while the odds of having no staple crop in a household with a head between 45 and 64 years of age were 2.5 times (95% CI, 1.06 to 5.96) higher than that of a household with a head less than 45 years old (p < .037). Having more than 10 livestock equivalent units reduced the risk of having no harvest by 40% (95% CI, 0.29 to 1.12). the view that participation in the LIPWP results in reduced staple crop production does not seem to be supported by our data.
Implementation of Nutrition Education and Rehabilitation Programs (NERPs) in Viet Nam
Authors: Dickey Vanessa C. , Pachón Helena , Marsh David R. , Lang Tran Thi , Claussenius David R. , Dearden Kirk A. , Ha Tran Thu , Schroeder Dirk G.
Published: November 2015

Rigorous assessments of program quality are uncommon in developing countries. We evaluated the quality of the two-week, volunteer-facilitated, caregiver-child rehabilitation “hearth,” or nutrition education and rehabilitation program (NERP), sessions in Save the Children's integrated nutrition program in Viet Nam. Field workers observed attendance, food contribution, food preparation, meal consumption, health message delivery, hygiene, and weighing at 240 NERP days at 59 NERP centers during seven months of implementation. Participation in cooking NERP meals (75.8%), washing mothers' and children's hands (75.7% and 81.6%, respectively), and weighing (74.5% on days 1 and 12) were high, but attendance rates (50.3%), food contributions (20.3%), and health message delivery (20.0%) were lower than expected, all with wide variation among communes, ecology, NERP day, and NERP round. Contrary to protocol, food was often delivered to malnourished children who stayed at home to accommodate caregivers' workloads and other constraints. While home-delivery of food prevented caregivers from learning from each other in a group, it did bring “tangible messages” (i.e., a large serving size of a new food) to the doorstep. Health volunteers were wise to stress active learning over repetitive message delivery. In summary, these NERPs were probably typical of previous NERPs although comparable quality measures are lacking. Despite imperfect implementation, the NERP's active-learning and local problem-solving helped achieve measurable impact on growth, diet, morbidity, and empowerment despite uncommon program challenges, such as uncharacteristically low baseline levels of malnutrition and high population dispersion. Regular quality monitoring may enhance impact even further.