bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fortification of Drinking Water to Control Iron- Deficiency Anemia in Preschool Children
Authors: Dutra-de-Oliveira José Eduardo , Lamounier Joel A. , de Almeida Carlos Nogueira A. , Marchini Julio Sergio 
Published: November 2015

Background Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of micronutrient malnutrition in the world. Its etiology and control are well understood, but the problem persists and is increasing in some developing countries. Iron fortification of mass-consumption foods is considered one of the most viable approaches to deliver bioavailable iron to the population. Objective To review and analyze the use of drinking water as an iron vehicle to reduce ferropenic anemia in developing countries. Methods Drinking water with added iron compounds was offered to preschool children at day-care centers in Brazil. Iron solutions were prepared with 10 mg to 20 mg iron/L. Clinical and anthropometric measurements and blood hemoglobin concentrations were obtained at the beginning of each study and 4 to 8 months later. Results No problems with acceptability or side effects were observed. Daily water intake by children was around 500 mL. Iron-deficiency anemia was found in all studies. Control children not receiving iron sup- plementation mantained their initial hemoglobin level. Anemia was reduced in the groups receiving iron-fortified drinking water. Conclusions Based on physical properties, tests in rats, and studies on preschool children at Brazilian day-care centers, we have shown that drinking water locally fortified with iron compounds should be considered and used as a worldwide available vehicle to control iron-deficiency anemia. Drinking water, besides being universally available, is a locally available vehicle, easily fortified, can be a vehicle for hydrosoluble iron, and reduces iron-deficiency anemia in preschool children.
Zinc Status of Iranian Preschool Children
Authors: Safavi Sayyed Morteza , Sheikholeslam Robabeh , Naghavi Mohsen , Sadeghian Saeed , Sadeqzadeh Elham , Kolahdooz Fariba , Mohammadian Somayyeh 
Published: November 2015

Background Zinc deficiency is one of the most preva- lent micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries, including Iran. The main direct causes of zinc deficiency are insufficient zinc intake, absorption or metabolic disorder, and increase in need during acute growth periods. Objective To determine the prevalence of zinc defi- ciency in preschool boys and girls in urban and rural populations in order to assist policy makers. Children of preschool age (i. e., 6 years old in Iran) were studied because interventions in this age group are believed to result in greater improvement in learning skills once these children enter school. Methods A national cross-sectional study was carried out on 4,374 randomly selected healthy preschool children from Iranian families in 2001. Serum zinc concentration was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. The cutoff point for zinc deficiency was set at a serum level of 10 μmol/L (65 μg/dL). Results The prevalence of zinc deficiency was esti- mated at approximately 19.3%. The highest preva- lence was seen in the region that includes Sistan and Baluchistan, South Khorasan, and the southeast area of Kerman and the lowest in the region of Boushehr, Hor- mozgan, and South Khoozestan. The prevalence of zinc deficiency was significantly higher in rural areas than in urban areas. No significant difference in prevalence was seen between boys and girls. Conclusions In the long run, nutritional security and increased access to and intake of foods with high levels of zinc are the most sustainable strategies to overcome zinc deficiency. Fortification of staple foods, improved qual- ity of traditional bread, and supplementation for at-risk population groups are considered short- and mid-term nterventions. Nutrition education and behavioral change may be long-term strategies.
Prevention of Malnutrition among Young Children in Rural Bangladesh by a Food-Health-Care Educational Intervention: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Roy Swapan Kumar , Jolly Saira Parveen , Shafique Sohana , Fuchs George J. , Mahmud Zeba , Chakraborty Barnali , Roy Suchismita 
Published: November 2015

Background As a result of inappropriate feeding, poor health and hygiene, and poor caring practices, the nutritional status of many young infants deteriorates with advancing age. Objective To explore the effectiveness of a nutrition education package to prevent malnutrition among young children. Methods A community-based, randomized, controlled trial was conducted among 605 normal and mildly malnourished children aged 6 to 9 months in 121 Community Nutrition Centers (CNCs) of the Bangladesh Integrated Nutrition Project (BINP) in four regions of Bangladesh from 2000 to 2002. The intervention group received weekly nutrition education based on the nutrition triangle concept of UNICEF for 6 months, whereas the control group received regular BINP services. Both groups were observed for a further 6 months to assess the sustainability of the effects. Information on socio-economic status, feeding patterns, morbidity, and anthropometric features was collected. Results A significant increase in the frequency of complementary feeding was observed in the intervention group as compared with the control group, and the increase was sustained throughout the observation period. The intervention group had a higher weight gain than the control group after the end of the intervention (0.86 vs. 0.77kg, p = 0.053) and after the end of the observation period (1.81 vs. 1.39 kg, p < .001). The proportion of normal and mildly malnourished children was greater in the intervention group than in the control group after the end of the observations (88.9% vs. 61.5%, p < .001). Nutrition education successfully prevented malnutrition in all the areas. Variation in the outcome of nutrition education among the regions was observed. Conclusions This culturally appropriate nutrition education package based on the nutrition triangle model effectively prevented growth faltering and malnutrition among young children.
Release of Iron, Zinc, and Lead from Common Iron Construction Bars and Zinc Metallic Bars in Water Solutions and Meals
Authors: Lechtig Aarón , de Romaña Daniel Lòpez , Boy Erick , Vargas Alejandro , del Portal Mauricio Rosas , Huaylinos María Luisa 
Published: November 2015

Background The use of iron pots has decreased the prevalence of anemia. Objective To investigate the release of iron, zinc, and lead from metallic iron and zinc bars incubated in water and in meals. Methods Iron, zinc, and lead concentrations were measured at different incubation conditions in water and in meals. Results The iron concentration in water was 1.26 mg/L after incubation with one iron bar at pH 7 and 100°C for 20 minutes and in meals was 0.97 mg per 100 g of wet meals, rich in phytate, cooking at 100°C during 20 minutes. The maximum contents were 7,720 mg/L of iron and 1,826 mg/L of zinc in vinegar at pH 3 and 20°C after 90 and 32 days, respectively. Lead was released from the bars, but at concentrations well below the upper tolerable limits. Discussion In outreach populations, the use of iron and zinc metallic bars in water and meals could contribute to sustainable, very low-cost prevention of iron and zinc deficiencies, and home-fortified vinegar could be used for treatment of both deficiencies. Conclusions Field trials should be performed to determine the impact that the use of iron and zinc metallic bars in water and meals might have on the iron and zinc status of population groups.
From Harvest to Health: Challenges for Developing Biofortified Staple Foods and Determining Their Impact on Micronutrient Status
Authors: Hotz Christine , McClafferty Bonnie 
Published: November 2015

Background The use of conventional breeding techniques and biotechnology to improve the micronutrient quality of staple crops is a new strategy to address micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries. This strategy, referred to as “biofortification,” is being developed and implemented through the international alliance of HarvestPlus to improve iron, zinc, and vitamin A status in low-income populations. Objective The objective of this paper is to review the challenges faced by nutritionists to determine and demonstrate the ability of biofortified crops to have an impact on the nutritional and health status of target populations. Methods We reviewed available published and unpublished information that is needed to design and evaluate this strategy, including issues related to micronutrient retention in staple foods, micronutrient bioavailability from plant foods, and evidence for the efficacy of high-micronutrient-content staple foods to improve micronutrient status. Results Further information is needed on the retention of micronutrients in staple foods, in particular of provitamin A carotenoids, when stored and prepared under different conditions. The low bioavailability of iron from staple foods and the ability to demonstrate an impact on zinc status are specific challenges that need to be addressed. In target countries, infections and other micronutrient deficiencies may confound the ability to affect micronutrient status, and this must be taken into account in community-based studies. Conclusions Information to date suggests that biofortification has the potential to contribute to increased micronutrient intakes and improved micronutrient status. The success of this strategy will require the collaboration between health and agriculture sectors.
Linking Human Nutrition and Fisheries: Incorporating Micronutrient-Dense, Small Indigenous Fish Species in Carp Polyculture Production in Bangladesh
Authors: Roos Nanna , Wahab Md. Abdul , Hossain Mostafa Ali Reza , Thilsted Shakuntala Haraksingh 
Published: November 2015

Background Fish and fisheries are important for the livelihoods, food, and income of the rural population in Bangladesh. Increased rice production and changing agricultural patterns have resulted in a large decline in inland fisheries. Implementation of carp pond polyculture has been very successful, whereas little focus has been given to the commonly consumed small indigenous fish species, some of which are rich in vitamin A and minerals, such as calcium, iron, and zinc, and are an integral part of the rural diet. Objective The overall objective of the research and capacity-building activities described in this paper is to increase the production, accessibility, and intake of nutrient-dense small indigenous fish species, in particular mola ( Amblypharyngodon mola), in order to combat micronutrient deficiencies. The large contribution from small indigenous fish species to recommended intakes of vitamin A and calcium and the perception that mola is good for or protects the eyes have been well documented. Methods An integrated approach was conducted jointly by Bangladeshi and Danish institutions, linking human nutrition and fisheries. Activities included food-consumption surveys, laboratory analyses of commonly consumed fish species, production trials of carp–mola pond polyculture, teaching, training, and dissemination of the results. Results No decline in carp production and thus in income was found with the inclusion of mola, and increased intake of mola has the potential to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Teaching and training of graduates and field staff have led to increased awareness of the role of small indigenous fish species for good nutrition and resulted in the promotion of carp–mola pond polyculture and research in small indigenous fish species. The decline in accessibility, increase in price, and decrease in intake of small indigenous fish species by the rural poor, as well as the increased intake of silver carp ( Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), the most commonly cultured fish species, which is poor in micronutrients and not preferred for consumption, are being addressed, and some measures taken by inland fisheries management have been discussed. Conclusions The successful linking of human nutrition and fisheries to address micronutrient deficiencies has relevance for other countries with rich fisheries resources, such as Cambodia and countries in the Lake Victoria region of Africa.
Evaluation of the Potential Effectiveness of Wheat Flour and Salt Fortification Programs in Five Central Asian Countries and Mongolia, 2002–2007
Authors: Tazhibayev Shamil , Dolmatova Oksana , Ganiyeva Galina , Khairov Khotambek , Ospanova Feruza , Oyunchimeg Dalkhjav , Suleimanova Dilorom , Scrimshaw Nevin 
Published: November 2015

Background A project for universal salt iodation with potassium iodate and wheat flour fortification with a vitamin-mineral premix was implemented in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan between 2002 and 2007. Objective To determine the potential effectiveness of the food fortification programs in improving the micronutrient status of selected families in a sentinel population in each country. Methods An area was selected in each country in a sentinel population expected to have early access to iodated salt and fortified wheat flour. Within this area, an average of 40 families with a woman of reproductive age and two children between 2 and 15 years old were sampled at baseline. All the rounds of the study were carried out in women and children in the same households. Hemoglobin, serum ferritin, folic acid, and urinary iodine excretion were analyzed at baseline, one year, and three years later. Results In the third round in 2007 significant increases were observed in the average levels of blood hemoglobin, serum ferritin and folic acid, and urinary iodine. Corresponding decreases in the prevalence of anemia and increases in serum ferritin levels, folic acid, and iodine were found. Conclusions Salt and wheat flour fortification resulted in a significant improvement in the micronutrient status of children and women living in sentinel households in the countries participating in the Asian Development Bank project. Sentinel studies were a cost-effective way of determining potential national effectiveness.
Uncultivated Brazilian Green Leaves are Richer Sources of Carotenoids than are Commercially Produced Leafy Vegetables
Authors: Kobori Cintia Nanci , Amaya Delia B. Rodriguez 
Published: November 2015

Background With the continuing problem of vitamin A deficiency, the recognition of the role of carotenoids in disease prevention, and international programs promoting biodiversity, determination of the carotenoid content of indigenous Brazilian foods is needed. Objective To determine the principal carotenoids in native leaves and compare the levels with those in commercially produced leafy vegetables. Methods The indigenous Brazilian leafy vegetables caruru, mentruz, taioba, serralha, and beldroega were analyzed with the use of a previously developed and validated high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Parsley and coriander leaves, which were previously shown to be the richest in carotenoids among commercially produced leaves, were analyzed for comparison. Five sample lots of each vegetable collected at different times during the year were analyzed immediately after harvest. Results Lutein concentrations were 119 ± 21, 111 ± 48, 104 ± 44, 87 ± 7, and 34 ± 14 μg/g, and β-carotene contents were 114 ± 22, 97 ± 40, 66 ± 18, 72 ± 9, and 32 ± 14 μg/g for caruru, mentruz, taioba, serralha, and beldroega, respectively. Except for beldroega, these values were higher than those for commercial leaves. Parsley had 88 ± 18 μg/g of lutein and 65 ± 13 μg/g of β-carotene. Coriander leaves contained 74 ± 6 μg/g of lutein and 55 ± 5 μg/g of β-carotene. The violaxanthin and neoxanthin concentrations were also higher in the native leaves. Comparison with values for previously analyzed commercial leafy vegetables confirmed the higher carotenoid levels of the native leaves. Conclusions The indigenous leaves investigated are richer sources of carotenoids than are commercially produced leafy vegetables.
Gestational Weight Gain as Predicted by Pregestational Body Mass Index and Gestational Age in Mexican Women
Authors: Casanueva Esther , Flores-Quijano María Eugenia , Roselló-Soberón María Emila , De-Regil Luz María , Sámano Reyna 
Published: November 2015

Objective To develop a reference pattern to evaluate gestational weight according to pregestational body mass index (BMI) and gestational age, using current longitudinal information from healthy pregnant women. Subjects and methods We followed 438 women with singleton pregnancies between weeks 16 and 36 of pregnancy. Women were excluded if they developed pathologic conditions during gestation, delivered malformed or dead fetuses, or delivered babies with a birthweight of less than 2500 or more than 4200 g or with a gestational age of less than 37 or more than 41 weeks. Weight, biochemical indicators, and clinical indicators were recorded every 4 weeks throughout the pregnancy. Data were analyzed by sequential regressions. Results Four equations for maternal predicted weight across categories of pregestational BMI (underweight, normal, overweight, and obese) and gestational ages were developed and synthesized in a table of reference values. Conclusions Optimal weight and weight gain during pregnancy can be estimated with our equations, which are corrected for pregestational BMI and gestational age.
Review of Interventions for the Prevention and Control of Folate and Vitamin B12 Deficiencies
Authors: Cordero José F. , Do Ann , Berry R. J. 
Published: November 2015

Folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies represent important and evolving global health challenges that contribute to the global burden of anemia, neurologic conditions, neurodevelopmental disorders, and birth defects. We present a review of population-based programs designed to increase consumption of folates and vitamin B12. A folic acid supplementation program targeting couples prior to marriage in China has led to optimal consumption of supplements containing folic acid and a significant reduction of neural tube defects (NTD). Supplementation programs that use mass community education show some promise, but have not been shown to be as effective as targeted education. The success of supplementation programs hinges on a strong and persistent educational component and access to the supplements. Fortification with folic acid has been shown to reduce the prevalence of NTD in the countries where it has been implemented. Challenges to fortification programs include identifying the appropriate delivery vehicles, setting the optimal fortification level, sustaining the quality assurance of the fortification level, and addressing regulatory challenges and trade barriers of commercially fortified flours. Supplementation and fortification are cost-effective and viable approaches to reducing the burden of NTD, anemia, and other conditions resulting from folate deficiency. The experience with interventions involving folic acid could provide a model for the subsequent development of supplementation and fortification programs involving vitamin B12.
Contribution of Natural Resources to Nutritional Status in a Protected Area of Gabon
Authors: Blaney Sonia , Beaudry Micheline , Latham Michael 
Published: November 2015

Background In protected areas, legislation restricts the population's access to natural food resources, which might have an impact on their welfare. Objective To assess the contribution of the individual use of natural resources to nutritional status in the rural population of the Gamba Complex of Gabon. Methods Four villages were selected to represent the rural population. All households were invited to participate, and 95% agreed. In each of the two major seasons, data were collected from all individuals ( n = 637) in these 95 households during a 7-day period using a weighed food-consumption survey, observations, interviews, and anthropometric measures. Results Among children 5 to 9 years of age ( n = 82) and adolescents ( n = 169), their use of natural resources was the best predictor of nutritional status (explaining 8% of the variance), mainly via its contribution to the achievement of nutrient requirements. The use of natural resources was not a predictor for children 6 to 23 months ( n = 28) or 24 to 59 months of age ( n = 63), where the best predictors were access to care (26%) and health status (15%), respectively. Household food security predicted nutritional status in women caregivers ( n = 96), although negatively. Conclusions Natural resources contribute to the nutritional status of children 5 to 9 years of age and adolescents but not of other groups. The intrahousehold allocation of food, particularly of natural food resources, needs to be investigated to better appreciate the contribution of natural resources to the population's well-being. Women seem particularly vulnerable. Other than activities related to conservation, work is needed to understand the role of natural resources for populations living within and around protected areas.
Nutritional and Immunological Status and their Associations among HIV-Infected Adults in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Fufa Habtamu , Umeta Melaku , Taffesse Samson , Mokhtar Najat , Aguenaou Hassan 
Published: November 2015

Background In the search for cost-effective interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality in HIV disease, the identification of nutritional status and levels of micronutrients is very important. Objective To generate information on the level of energy malnutrition and on vitamin A, zinc, and hemoglobin levels and their relationships with disease status in HIV-infected adults in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out on 153 HIV-positive adults (19% male, 81% female) living in Addis Ababa. The nutritional status and the levels of zinc, retinol, and hemoglobin were determined by anthropometric and biochemical methods. CD4+ counts and C-reactive protein levels were measured by standard methods. Results Of the patients, 18% were chronically energy deficient, 71% were normal, and 11% were overweight. Serum zinc levels were low (< 10.7 μmol/L) in 53% of subjects, and serum retinol levels were low (< 30 μg/dL) in 47% of subjects. Low hemoglobin levels (< 12 g/dL) were observed in only 4.72% of the study population. CD4+ counts under 200/mm3 and elevated C-reactive protein levels were both found in 21% of the subjects. CD4+ counts were positively and significantly correlated with hemoglobin ( r = 0.271, p < .001), zinc ( r = 0.180, p < .033), and body mass index ( r = 0.194, p < .017). There were significant negative associations between levels of C-reactive protein and levels of zinc ( r = −0.178, p < 0.036 and hemoglobin ( r = −0.253, p < .002). Conclusions Our results provide evidence that compromised nutritional and micronutrient status begins early in the course of HIV-1 infection. Low serum zinc and vitamin A levels were observed in almost half of the subjects. The clinical significance of low serum zinc and vitamin A levels is unclear, and more research is required.