bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Secular Trends in Height in Different States of India in Relation to Socioeconomic Characteristics and Dietary Intakes
Authors: Mamidi Raja Sriswan , Kulkarni Bharati , Singh Abhishek 
Published: November 2015

Background Information on adult height and associated secular trends in relation to socioeconomic characteristics based on a nationally representative sample is not available from India. Objective To assess the average adult height and secular trends in height in different states of India in relation to socioeconomic characteristics and dietary intakes according to data from the Third National Family Health Survey (NFHS 3). Methods Average heights and associated secular trends were analyzed for each state and in relation to socioeconomic variables. Bivariate and multiple regression analyses were performed to examine the association of socioeconomic factors and consumption of animal-source foods with height. Results Data from anthropometric measurements were available for 69,245 men and 118,796 women in the age group from 20 to 49 years. The average heights of adult men and women were 165 and 152 cm, respectively, with wide variation among states. Overall, there was a modest secular increase in height (0.50 cm per decade in men and 0.22 cm per decade in women), with a negative secular trend in some of the states. There were striking regional differences in the average heights and the secular trends in height. Similarly, higher socio-economic status was associated with greater height and a greater secular increase in height. Milk consumption had a positive association with height in men ( r = 0.69, p < .001) and women ( r = 0.63, p < .001) in various/different states. Conclusions The secular increase in height has been modest in India in spite of impressive economic growth. Consumption patterns of milk in different states may be related to the regional differences in height.
Dietary Intake and Nutrition-Related Knowledge in a Sample of Lebanese Adolescents of Contrasting Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Nabhani-Zeidan Maya , Naja Farah , Nasreddine Lara 
Published: November 2015

Background Socioeconomic status (SES) is postulated to be a major predictor of dietary intake and nutrition-related knowledge in adults. To date, very few studies have addressed this effect among adolescents. Objective To explore differences in nutrient intake and nutrition-related knowledge among adolescents of contrasting SES in Lebanon. Methods In a cross-sectional survey, 209 males and females, aged 17 to 19 years, were recruited from a private university with high tuition and a free public university in Beirut. The participants completed a multicomponent, self-administered questionnaire that inquired about demographic characteristics and nutrition-related knowledge. Three nonconsecutive 24-hour dietary recalls were obtained through interviews. Energy-adjusted means of dietary intake and age-adjusted nutrition-related knowledge were compared between groups using a general linear model. Results Adolescents in the high-SES group consumed more vegetables, meats, and fats and oils ( p < .05). Energy and nutrient intake analysis showed that adolescents in the high-SES group consumed significantly higher amounts of calories, protein, fat, vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron ( p <.001) and significantly lower amounts of carbohydrates (p < .05). Nutritional knowledge, although high among all participants, was higher in the high-SES group ( p < .05). Conclusions Although both groups showed good nutrition-related knowledge, SES significantly affected dietary intake in a sample of Lebanese adolescents. This warrants consideration of other factors, such as cost and environment, that may modulate eating behavior among adolescents from different socioeconomic strata.
Determinants of Delayed Initiation of Breastfeeding in Rural Ethiopia: Programmatic Implications
Authors: Horii Naoko , Guyon Agnès B. , Quinn Victoria J. 
Published: November 2015

Background A number of studies have examined the possible adverse impact of services offered by health workers and community members on postpartum infant feeding practices. The present analysis utilized extant data collected previously through the baseline surveys of two related child health and nutrition projects implemented in rural Ethiopia and explored key risk factors associated with delayed initiation of breastfeeding for more than 1 hour after birth. Objective To investigate the most important determinants of delayed initiation of breastfeeding. Methods Multivariate logistic regression was performed to analyze data from baseline cross-sectional surveys carried out in 2003 and 2004 in selected districts across three regions in Ethiopia. Results Attendance at delivery by a health worker was found to be an important risk factor for the delayed initiation of breastfeeding, whereas attendance by traditional birth attendants or family and/or friends represented a protective factor for early initiation of breastfeeding. Additional analysis suggests that targeting of behavior change interventions on optimal infant feeding to these health workers could reverse the risk relationship and lead to improvements in the rate of early initiation of breastfeeding. Conclusions Provision of inadequate breastfeeding information in the health system and attendance at delivery by health workers are associated with a delay in the initiation of breastfeeding. Births attended by trained traditional birth attendants and family members are associated with better practices. Targeting health workers, community members, families, and women to promote optimal infant feeding practices is likely to hold much potential to increase the adoption of early initiation of breastfeeding.
Impact of Prophylactic Iron Supplementation in Healthy Pregnant Women on Maternal Iron Status and Birth Outcome
Authors: Falahi Ebrahim , Akbari Soheila , Ebrahimzade Farzad , Gargari Bahram Pourghasem 
Published: November 2015

Background In spite of the beneficial effect of iron supplementation in iron-deficient pregnant women, iron supplementation may not be needed for women who are iron replete or not anemic. Moreover, the theoretical possibility of adverse effects, such as oxidative damage, from administration of iron supplements during pregnancy has been raised. Objective To determine the effect of prophylactic iron supplementation on iron status and birth outcomes among nonanemic pregnant women. Methods A randomized, triple-blind clinical trial was conducted. One hundred forty-eight nonanemic pregnant women with hemoglobin > 110 g/L, serum ferritin > 12 μg/L, and gestational age < 20 weeks were randomly assigned to receive either ferrous sulfate (60 mg elemental iron) (n = 70) or placebo (n = 78) until delivery. Hemoglobin concentration and serum ferritin were measured by electronic counter and radioimmunoassay, respectively. Data were analyzed by independent t-tests, ANCOVA, and repeated measures. Results At delivery, the incidence of iron deficiency was significantly lower in the iron than in the placebo group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in maternal hemoglobin and ferritin concentrations at delivery or in the infant's birthweight, birth length, or length of gestation. Conclusions Iron supplementation during pregnancy in nonanemic women with low serum ferritin may have benefits beyond the prevention of iron-deficiency anemia.
Provision of Micronutrient Powder in Response to the Cyclone Sidr Emergency in Bangladesh: Cross-Sectional Assessment at the end of the Intervention
Authors: Rah Jee Hyun , de Pee Saskia , Halati Siti , Parveen Monira , Mehjabeen Syeda Sajia , Steiger Georg , Bloem Martin W. , Kraemer Klaus 
Published: November 2015

Background Micronutrient powder has been endorsed as an effective means to improve the micronutrient status of emergency-affected populations. Objective To document the experience and findings of a cross-sectional assessment of the micronutrient powder program implemented as part of the emergency response to Cyclone Sidr. Methods Micronutrient powder was distributed to 100,714 children under 5 years of age and 59,439 pregnant or lactating women severely affected by Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional assessment, including hemoglobin and anthropometric measurements, was conducted after the completion of the micronutrient powder program among children under 5 years of age, lactating mothers, and postmenarcheal adolescent girls in the intervention area. Comparison groups for each, drawn from the control area, which had not received micronutrient powder, were assessed at the same time. Results The prevalence of anemia among children under 5 years of age was approximately 80% in both areas. Among children in the intervention area, those who consumed at least 75% of the micronutrient powder sachets had a lower prevalence of stunting than those who consumed less than 75% of the sachets (40% vs. 52%, p < .05). Among lactating mothers in the intervention area, the prevalence rates of thinness and anemia were lower among those who consumed at least 75% of the sachets than among those who consumed less than 75% of the sachets (thinness, 31% vs. 46%, p < .05; anemia, 50% vs. 61%, p = .07). For adolescent girls in the intervention and control areas, none of whom had received micronutrient powder, the prevalence rates of anemia were 52% and 45%, respectively ( p = .05). Conclusions Micronutrient powder may reduce anemia among lactating mothers, when the compliance rate is high. Anemia prevalence prior to micronutrient powder distribution had not been investigated and could have been higher among children and lactating mothers in the intervention than in the control area, resulting in the negation of the potential positive impact of micronutrient powder on anemia.
Feeding Patterns and Growth of Term Infants in Eldoret, Kenya
Authors: Arusei Roselyne Jelimo , Ettyang Grace Adisa , Esamai Fabian 
Published: November 2015

Background There are limited longitudinal data from developing countries on early infant feeding and growth patterns. In Kenya only 34.8% of infants are exclusively breastfed at 2 months. This finding is of concern, and further understanding of infant feeding and growth patterns is important. Objective To determine the feeding and growth patterns of Kenyan term infants during early infancy. Methods A longitudinal study was conducted. One hundred and fifty-one resource-constrained mother—infant pairs were recruited from the West Municipal Health Centre (WMHC) within 24 hours after birth, and subsequent follow-up was performed at the WMHC Maternal and Child Health Clinic. Data on baseline characteristics were collected with the use of a structured questionnaire. Data on nonbreastmilk liquids given to the infants and feeding patterns were gathered with the use of a 24-hour recall. Standard procedures were used to measure infant weight, recumbent length, and head circumference. World Health Organization (WHO) growth standards were used, and tests for variation between and within group means were performed, with α < .05 regarded as indicating significance. Results At 6 and 10 weeks, the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding was 40.4% and 9.9%, respectively. The mothers cited “aids infant's digestion” (38%) as the main reason for partial breastfeeding and “breastmilk was not enough” (48%) as the main reason for predominant breastfeeding. Growth velocity based on weight was similar to that in the WHO reference group. All of the children had normal growth (z-score > −2). Mothers without knowledge about WHO/UNICEF early infant feeding recommendations and those who initiated breast-feeding more than 1 hour post partum were ninefold and eightfold more likely to start mixed feeding by 10 weeks of age, respectively. Conclusions There is a need to accelerate awareness of optimum infant feeding recommendations and augment the rigorous practice of the WHO Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding.
Ecological Approaches to Human Nutrition
Authors: Declerck Fabrice A. J. , Fanzo Jessica , Palm Cheryl , Remans Roseline 
Published: November 2015

Background Malnutrition affects a large number of people throughout the developing world. Approaches to reducing malnutrition rarely focus on ecology and agriculture to simultaneously improve human nutrition and environmental sustainability. However, evidence suggests that interdisciplinary approaches that combine the knowledge bases of these disciplines can serve as a central strategy in alleviating hidden hunger for the world's poorest. Objective To describe the role that ecological knowledge plays in alleviating hidden hunger, considering human nutrition as an overlooked ecosystem service. Methods We review existing literature and propose a framework that expands on earlier work on econutrition. We provide novel evidence from case studies conducted by the authors in western Kenya and propose a framework for interdisciplinary collaboration to alleviate hidden hunger, increase agricultural productivity, and improve environmental sustainability. Results Our review supports the concept that an integrated approach will impact human nutrition. We provide evidence that increased functional agrobiodiversity can alleviate anemia, and interventions that contribute to environmental sustainability can have both direct and indirect effects on human health and nutritional well-being. Conclusions Integrated and interdisciplinary approaches are critical to reaching development goals. Ecologists must begin to consider not only how their field can contribute to biodiversity conservation, but also, the relationship between biodiversity and provisioning of nontraditional ecosystem services such as human health. Likewise, nutritionists and agronomists must recognize that many of the solutions to increasing human well-being and health can best be achieved by focusing on a healthy environment and the conservation of ecosystem services.
Selection and Use of US Title II Food Aid Products in Programming Contexts
Authors: Rogers Beatrice , Webb Patrick , Wanke Christine , Sadler Kate , Masterson Amelia Reese , Bagriansky Jack , Schlossman Nina , Narayan Anuradha , Tilahun Jessica 
Published: November 2015

Background Food aid provided by the United States has saved lives for almost two centuries. Delivering the right products is important, but of equal concern are the ways in which products are delivered and to whom. Objective The study addresses how food products are currently used, whether interventions are appropriate to achieve nutrition objectives, and whether nutrition targets could be met more cost-effectively with a different mix of products or programs. Methods The team conducted consultations with a broad range of stakeholders. A survey of Title II implementing partners was conducted, focusing on procurement and logistics, and uses of FBFs and other foods. Input of implementing partners, civil society, and donor organizations was obtained through individual consultations, international and small group meetings. More than 400 individuals accessed the project's website. The project convened a panel of experts in food technology and science, food policy, law, industry, medicine, development and humanitarian work, and the maritime industry, and held regular joint meetings with USDA and USAID. The draft report was widely disseminated and posted on the website. Results and conclusions There is wide variation in the quantities of fortified blended foods provided to target populations. Most of these foods are used in health/nutrition programs, but they are also used in general family rations or as an incentive or pay. Clearer programming guidance and improved decision tools are needed to match products to nutrition goals, and programs should consider delivering nutrients across a basket of commodities, not single products. The evidence base for the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of specific foods and programs needs to be strengthened and should be supported by FFP. Research is needed to provide guidance on nutrition support for HIV/AIDS. Additional investments are needed in effective behavior change communication.
Prevalence and Sociodemographic Factors of Malnutrition among Children in Malaysia
Authors: Khambalia Amina Z. , Lim Siew S. , Gill Tim , Bulgiba Awang M. 
Published: November 2015

Background For many developing countries undergoing rapid economic growth and urbanization, trends in nutritional status indicate a decrease in malnutrition with an associated rise in the prevalence of obesity. An understanding of the situation among children in Malaysia is lacking. Objective To examine the prevalence, trends and sociodemographic factors described for underweight and overweight children in Malaysia. Methods The literature from January 1996 to November 2010 on the prevalence of underweight and over-weight among children in Malaysia was reviewed. Results Twelve studies were identified that reported on both underweight and overweight among children in Malaysia, of which only one was a nationally representative survey. Based on the National Health and Morbidity Survey in 2006, 13.2% (95% CI, 12.6 to 13.9) of children aged 0 to 18 years were underweight (weight-for-age < −2SD), and 8.0% (95% CI, 7.5 to 8.6) of those aged 0 to 13 years were overweight (weight-for-height > +2SD). Both underweight and overweight were more prevalent in males than females. Children in rural areas were more likely to be underweight and less likely to be overweight than urban children. Ethnic differences between Malays, Chinese, and Indians were inconsistent across studies and less clear. Aborigines were more likely to be underweight and less likely to be overweight than the general population. The available evidence, although limited and sparse, suggests that over the past decade the prevalence of both underweight and overweight among children in Malaysia has been stable or has shown an increasing trend. Conclusions Long-term national monitoring and longitudinal cohort studies will be critical for understanding, preventing, and managing the double burden of malnutrition among children in Malaysia.
Comparative Intake of White- versus Orange-Colored Maize by Zambian Children in the Context of Promotion of Biofortified Maize
Authors: Nuss Emily T. , Arscott Sara A. , Bresnahan Kara , Pixley Kevin V. , Rocheford Torbert , Hotz Christine , Siamusantu Ward , Chileshe Justin , Tanumihardjo Sherry A. 
Published: November 2015

Background Vitamin A deficiency is associated with poor health outcomes related to reproduction, growth, vision, and immunity. Biofortification of staple crops is a novel strategy for combating vitamin A deficiency in high-risk populations where staple food intakes are high. African populations are proposed beneficiaries of maize ( Zea mays) biofortified with provitamin A carotenoids, often called “orange maize” because of its distinctive deep yellow-orange kernels. The color facilitates ready recognition but presents a cultural challenge to maize-consuming populations, including those in much of Africa, who traditionally eat white varieties. Objective This study explores the intake patterns of, as well as adaptation to, traditional foods made with provitamin A–biofortified maize compared with white maize in rural Zambian children 3 to 5 years of age ( n = 189) during a 3-month feeding trial. Methods The subjects were fed a breakfast of maize porridge (sweet mush), a lunch of maize nshima (stiff mush) with various side dishes, and an afternoon snack based on a 6-day rotating menu. The trial was conducted in 2010. The orange maize used in the trial came from three different sources. O1 maize was from the 2009 harvest and was stored in a freezer until use in 2010. O2 maize was also from the 2009 harvest and was stored in a cold room until 2010. O3 (“fresh”) maize was from the 2010 harvest and was fed immediately after harvest in week 9 of the study and then stored in a freezer until milling for the final four weeks. Results Consumption of menu items, except snacks, was influenced by week ( p < .0084). The intakes of porridge and nshima made with orange maize equaled those of porridge and nshima made with white maize from week 2 onward. The intakes of porridge and nshima prepared from O1 and O2 did not differ, but intakes became significantly higher when meals made from O3 were introduced ( p < .014 for porridge and p ≤ .013 for nshima). Conclusions These results demonstrate quick adaptation to orange maize, a preference for recently harvested maize, and an optimistic outlook for similar adaptation patterns in other biofortified-maize target countries.
Oral Administration of Ferrous Sulfate, but not of Iron Polymaltose or Sodium Iron Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (NaFeEDTA), Results in a Substantial Increase of Non-Transferrin-Bound Iron in Healthy Iron-Adequate Men
Authors: Schümann Klaus , Solomons Noel W. , Romero-Abal Maria-Eugenia , Orozco Monica , Weiss Guenter , Marx Jo 
Published: November 2015

Background Oral iron supplementation with ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) at dosage levels suggested by the international guidelines poses a safety hazard to young children with malaria. Exposure to loosely bound iron in the circulation has been advanced as a potential factor. Objective To evaluate the kinetics of circulating concentrations of plasma iron and non-transferrin-bound iron (NTBI) in response to oral iron administration in healthy adults. Methods Plasma samples were collected at 90-minute intervals over a period of 270 minutes from 10 healthy Guatemalan men after oral administration of water or 100 mg of iron from each of three iron compounds: FeSO4, sodium iron ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (NaFeEDTA), and iron polymaltose. The four tests were administered in an individually randomized sequence. Serum iron concentration was measured spectrophotometrically by the ferrozine method, and NTBI concentration was measured by a fluorometric competitive binding assay. The kinetic response and the maximal and cumulative changes in circulating concentrations of the biomarkers of interest were compared. Results Serum iron and NTBI responses to oral administration of FeSO4 were significantly greater than responses to plain water or the other two iron compounds. NTBI concentrations after NaFeEDTA or iron polymaltose ingestion were not different from those determined after water intake. Conclusions Administration of two iron compounds of proven bioavailability, but with complex absorption characteristics, is associated with a negligible NTBI response, potentially mitigating the safety concerns associated with iron supplementation in malarial areas.