bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the Child Health Day Strategy for the Integrated Delivery of Child Health and Nutrition Services
Authors: Palmer Amanda C. , Diaz Theresa , Noordam Aaltje Camielle , Dalmiya Nita 
Published: November 2015

Background In efforts to meet the Millennium Development Goal for mortality among children under 5 years of age, countries require strategies for covering hard-to-reach and older children who are often missed by routine, fixed-site health services. Objective To document the evolution of Child Health Days (CHDs), designed as regular events for the delivery of health and nutrition services to children under the age of five. Methods We extracted information on service delivery strategies and codelivered interventions for the period 1999 to 2010 from global monitoring databases for vitamin A and immunization. Results Our data illustrate a dramatic rise in CHDs over the decade: only two countries held CHDs in 1999; in 2010, 96 CHDs were conducted in 51 countries. Reliance on CHDs has been particularly marked in sub-Saharan Africa, where they are increasingly used to deliver five or more services per event. Whereas early CHDs were largely defined by codelivery of vitamin A, immunizations, and deworming, they have since evolved into diverse packages including services such as water purification tablets and screening for severe malnutrition. Conclusions The scale-up of CHDs is helping countries to achieve high and equitable coverage of essential health and nutrition services. Future research should consider whether the increasingly diverse services delivered via CHDs are guided by epidemiologic considerations, and whether the rising number of codelivered interventions is affecting coverage performance or service quality. Guidance is also needed to ensure that CHDs are implemented as part of systematic efforts to improve health systems.
Spatial Analysis of Undernutrition of Children in Léogâne Commune, Haiti
Authors: Spray Andrea L. , Eddy Brittany , Hipp James Aaron , Iannotti Lora 
Published: November 2015

Background Over a fifth (21.9%) of children under 5 years of age in Haiti suffer from chronic malnutrition, 11.4% are underweight, and 5.1% suffer from acute malnutrition. Léogâne Commune has one of the highest under-five mortality rates in the country. Ordinary least squares regression conducted using data from household surveys to assess the impact of causal factors on child undernutrition may mask important local variations. Objective To characterize the nutrition and health situation of children 6 to 35 months of age in Léogâne Commune, Haiti, using geographically weighted regression. Methods In July 2008, the Children's Nutrition Program of Haiti conducted a representative cross-sectional household survey ( N = 150) using a modified 33 × 6 alternative sampling design. Household questionnaires were administered to caregivers of children 6 to 35 months of age and anthropometric measurements were collected. Geographically weighted regression was employed to evaluate how undernutrition (weight-for-age) and its household determinants vary across the region. Geographically weighted regression and ordinary least squares regression models were compared. Results The residuals of the ordinary least squares regression model were spatially autocorrelated (Moran's I = 0.08, z = 1.90, p = .058), indicating that under-nutrition occurs in pockets rather than being evenly distributed throughout the population. There was no improvement in performance from the ordinary least squares regression model to the geographically weighted regression model. Conclusions Despite some limitations, this study illustrates a promising approach for using geospatial data to improve the understanding of how a nutrition situation varies across a region and provide deeper insight into its underlying causes.
Eating Habits, Inactivity, and Sedentary Behavior among Adolescents in Iraq: Sex Differences in the Hidden Risks of Noncommunicable Diseases
Authors: Musaiger Abdulrahman O. , Al-Mufty Berivan A. , Al-Hazzaa Hazzaa M. 
Published: November 2015

Background Noncommunicable diseases have become the main causes of death in several developing countries. There is a severe shortage of information about the risk factors for these diseases in Iraq. Objective To explore the eating habits, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors of adolescents in Mosul City, Iraq, as risk factors for noncommunicable diseases. Methods A multistage stratified sampling method was carried out on adolescents aged 15 to 18 years in Mosul City, Iraq. A pretested and validated questionnaire was used to obtain information on frequency of intake of certain foods, physical activity, and screen time (television, video, and computer). Weight and height were measured to obtain the body composition status. The total sample included 723 adolescents (350 boys and 373 girls). Results There were significant differences between boys and girls in most eating habits and activity behaviors. The frequency of skipping breakfast and the intakes of fruits and vegetables, french fries, and sweets and chocolates were significantly higher among girls than boys ( p < .001). Boys were significantly more likely to consume fast foods, sugar-sweetened drinks, and energy drinks than girls. Boys spent more time in physical activity ( p < .001) and looking at screens than girls. Conclusions The health authorities of Iraq should focus not only on interventions for undernutrition among adolescents, but also on behavioral risk factors for diet-related noncommunicable diseases.
A Review of the Vitamin A Supplementation Program in India: Reasons for Success in the States of Bihar and Odisha
Authors: Rah Jee H. , Houston Robin , Mohapatra Biswajit D. , Kumar Shri Sanjay , Saiyed Farhat , Bhattacharjee Sourav , Aguayo Victor M. 
Published: November 2015

Background Preventive vitamin A supplementation (VAS) is an essential child survival intervention. In India, VAS program coverage has remained relatively low, with wide interstate variation. Objective To review the VAS program in India, particularly in Bihar and Odisha, the two states that have had the most successful VAS programs, to define best practices and identify critical success factors. Methods A thorough review of existing relevant literature was carried out, supplemented by field visits and interviews with selected partners. Results Both states have adopted a biannual approach to reach out to children 1 to 5 years of age with VAS every 6 months, while infants below 1 year of age receive their first VAS dose with the measles immunization at 9 months. The critical success factors for the VAS program in the two states include strong leadership and ownership by the state government; close coordination between the two departments that are involved in the VAS program; effective microplanning prior to each biannual round; flexible dosing mechanisms that enhance coverage in hard-to-reach areas; a stable procurement and distribution mechanism to ensure an adequate, timely, and sustainable supply of VAS; intensive social mobilization and communication; and appropriate training and supervision of staff. Conclusions The governments of Bihar and Odisha have demonstrated that it is feasible to implement a successful and inclusive VAS program in India. The challenge now is to reach out to the remaining 30% to 40% of children who are undoubtedly the hardest to reach and potentially the most vulnerable.
Energy and Nutrient Intake and Acceptability of Nutritionally Balanced School Meals in Filipino Students
Authors: Angeles-Agdeppa Imelda , Neufingerl Nicole , Magsadia Clarita , Hiemstra Harry , Patalen Chona , Eilander Ans 
Published: November 2015

Background School meals provide an excellent opportunity to improve children's diet. Objective To investigate dietary intakes and acceptance of nutritionally balanced school meals (“nutrimeals”) as compared with regular (“baseline”) school meals among Filipino students. Methods The study employed a before—after intervention design with one group. Students 13 to 16 years of age from a public school in Metro Manila ( n = 112) consumed baseline school meals for 2 weeks followed by consumption of nutri-meals for 7 weeks. Served meals and plate waste were weighed to calculate food and nutrient intakes. Acceptability of meals was assessed daily in a random subsample using a seven-point hedonic scale. Analysis of covariance corrected for age and sex was conducted to test for differences in nutrient intakes and acceptability between nutri-meals and baseline meals. Results Feeding nutri-meals resulted in a higher intake of vegetables (95.3 ± 13.8 g), fruit (76.5 ± 6.3 g), and fish (19.1 ± 3.3 g) than baseline meals. Energy and protein intakes significantly increased by 140.7 ± 2.8 kcal and 3.2 ± 0.1 g, respectively. The quality of fat intake improved compared with baseline meals ( p < .001). Micronutrient intake from nutri-meals was significantly higher than that from baseline meals (except for zinc), contributing 6% to 79% of recommended daily intakes. Most students (> 90%) liked both baseline and nutri-meals; however, the mean acceptability score for baseline meals was slightly higher (0.2 ± 0.07 points, p = .004). Conclusions Nutritionally balanced nutri-meals may be a healthier and acceptable alternative to regular Filipino school meals. Further optimization of nutri-meals is required to meet the nutritional needs of adolescents and reduce sodium content.
Short-Term Nutrition Education Reduces Low Birthweight and Improves Pregnancy Outcomes among Urban Poor Women in Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan Khurshid , Roy S. K. , Mihrshahi Seema , Sultana Nigar , Khatoon Soofia , Roy Hema , Datta Laboni Rani , Roy Anjana , Jahan Sania , Khatun Wajiha , Nahar Naimun , Steele Jessica 
Published: November 2015

Background Maternal malnutrition and poor gestational weight gain are the most important causes of low birthweight and infant mortality in Bangladesh. Objective To assess the effect of short-term nutrition education on weight gain in the third trimester of pregnancy, birth outcomes, and breastfeeding. Methods Three hundred pregnant women participated in this randomized, controlled trial during a 3-month intervention period. The study was conducted in two antenatal clinics in urban Dhaka. One group of women was given monthly education sessions during the third trimester of pregnancy to promote consumption of khichuri, while the control group received only routine services from the health facilities. Birthweight was recorded within 24 hours after delivery. Breastfeeding practices were observed for 1 month after delivery. Results In the intervention group, maternal weight gain in the third trimester was 60% higher (8.60 vs. 5.38 kg, p = .011), mean birthweight was 20% higher (2.98 vs. 2.49 kg, p < .001), the rate of low birth-weight was 94% lower (2.7% vs. 44.7%, p < .001), and the rate of initiation of breastfeeding within 1 hour after birth was 52% higher (86.0% vs. 56.7%, p < .001), in comparison with the control group. Birthweight was associated with frequency of intake of khichuri ( p < 0.001). Conclusions Nutrition education with a focus on promoting consumption of khichuri during the third trimester of pregnancy significantly reduced the rate of low birthweight and increased maternal weight gain.
Driving Social Impact with Common Global Indicators for Healthy Lifestyle Programs: Lessons Learned
Authors: Nicole R. Robinson , Gin Julia , Kamath-Jha Shilpa , Infantes Michel , Hernandez Ricardo , Alberg-Seberich Michael , Suri Devika , Pérez-Escamilla Rafael 
Published: November 2015

Background Partnerships between corporate entities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in delivering community focused health and well-being programs are becoming increasingly valuable especially in the context of promoting healthy lifestyles around the globe. The Mondelēz International Foundation (MIF) has funded healthy lifestyles community based programs targeting children and youth through partnership with seven global NGOs. To assess collective impact of these programs, it is crucial to identify best practices and common impact indicators that can be measured across programs. MIF therefore organized the Healthy Life-styles Evaluation Workshop to explore these pertinent questions. Objective Share best practices and identify common impact indicators to measure the success of current and future MIF funded healthy lifestyles programs. Methods Analysis of the Program Impact Pathways (PIPs) and measured output of each of the seven programs. Results Individual and combined analysis of PIPs of the seven NGO programs led to identification of three critical impact indicators: nutrition knowledge, physical activity, and healthier eating, and also enabled NGOs to identify pathways to improve program delivery among the target population. Conclusions This workshop enabled MIF and partner NGOs to came together to align on metrics and future engagement approaches for promoting and evaluating community based healthy lifestyles programs.
Food Fortification: Safety and Legislation
Authors: Orriss Gregory D. 
Published: November 2015

The Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) International Conference on Nutrition (ICN), held in Rome in December 1992, recognized the widespread occurrence of micronutrient deficiencies, particularly in developing countries. The conference recognized food-based approaches as the most effective way to address existing micronutrient deficiencies. These approaches must include appropriate strategies to assure dietary diversification, improved food availability, food preservation, nutrition education, and food fortification. The final report of the conference included strategies and actions for preventing and controlling specific micronutrient deficiencies. It was proposed to ensure and legislate the fortification of foods or water with necessary micronutrients, where possible, when existing supplies fail to provide adequate levels in the diet. Food fortification has been successfully used in both developed and developing countries as one strategy to address micronutrient deficiencies. The primary purposes of food legislation are to protect the health of the consumer, protect the consumer from fraud, and facilitate trade. In the case of fortified foods, the target population must be protected from receiving either toxic or nutritionally ineffective levels of micronutrients. Legislation may be necessary to require adequate control over this fortification process by the food processors to ensure that levels of micronutrients are consistently within acceptable limits. Legislation may also be required to prohibit the addition of nutrients to commodities where it is nutritionally unnecessary or unsafe or where fortification may create an erroneous impression as to the nutritional value of the food. Any legislation regarding food fortification should incorporate the standards, recommendations, and guidelines of the Codex Alimentarius. The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (the SPS Agreement) and the WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (the TBT Agreement) have placed new importance on Codex standards, guidelines, codes, and recommendations.
The Nature and Nurture of Child Development
Authors: Wachs Theodore D. 
Published: November 2015

Although the reduction of child morbidity and the promotion of physical growth are important and necessary aspects of child development, these criteria by themselves do not define the adequacy of children's development. There are also behavioural-developmental criteria that emphasize the promotion of competence. the competent individual is one who can effectively adapt to and interact with his or her environment. Traits that define individual competence fall into five domains: cognitive skills, temperament/personality, motivation, self-perceptions, and interpersonal style. These domains are not completely independent, and there is at least partial overlap. the expression of individual differences in competence is partially moderated by context. Further, not all children achieve competence. Over time some children fall further and further behind their peers in their developmental course. in understanding what biological and psychosocial factors influence the development of individual differences in competence, four principles are critical. First, most aspects of individual competence are multidetermined. This means that interventions designed to facilitate development must be multifocal in nature, integrating influences from different domains. Second, influences upon children's development tend to be specific in nature. This emphasizes the importance of targeting specific interventions to specific outcomes. Third, individual developmental influences rarely operate in isolation from each other. Developmental risk factors tend to cluster together, as do developmentally protective influences. the extent of the impact of a given developmental risk factor will depend, in part, on the degree to which this risk factor covaries with other risk factors. Fourth, developmental risk and protective factors operate across time. Early exposure to developmental risks may increase the individual's susceptibility to later risk factors (sensitizing) or may limit the degree to which the individual can profit from later exposure to protective factors such as intervention (blunting). Early exposure to developmentally protective factors may attenuate the impact of later exposure to developmental risk factors (steeling). Principles underlying the nature and nurture of individual competence emphasize the need to use an IT-AT intervention strategy (Integrate Target Across Time). This means the need to integrate multi-domain interventions, target our intervention strategies to different contexts, risk conditions, and outcomes, and provide for recurring interventions across time to maximize the chances of long-term gains in individual competence.
COPD and risk of venous thromboembolism and mortality in a general population
Authors: Børvik Trond , Brækkan Sigrid K. , Enga Kristin , Schirmer Henrik , Brodin Ellen E. , Melbye Hasse , Hansen John-Bjarne 
Published: November 2015

The relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) has been scarcely studied in the general population. We aimed to investigate the association between COPD and risk of VTE and mortality in a population-based cohort.Spirometry was conducted in 8646 males and females, participating in the fifth (2001–02) and sixth (2007–08) surveys of the Tromsø Study. Incident VTE events during follow-up were registered from the date of inclusion to December 31, 2011. Cox-regression models with COPD stages and confounders as time varying covariates were used to calculate hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals for VTE and all-cause mortality.During a median follow-up of 6.2 years, 215 subjects developed VTE. Subjects with COPD stage III/IV had a two-fold higher risk of secondary VTE compared to subjects with normal airflow (HR 2.05, 95% CI 1.02–4.10). COPD patients, particularly those with stage III/IV disease, with VTE had a higher mortality rate than COPD patients without VTE (50.2%versus5.6% per year).Our findings suggest that patients with severe COPD may have increased risk of secondary VTE, and that COPD patients with VTE have a higher mortality rate than COPD patients without VTE.
Vitamin D represses rhinovirus replication in cystic fibrosis cells by inducing LL-37
Authors: Schögler Aline , Muster Ricardo J. , Kieninger Elisabeth , Casaulta Carmen , Tapparel Caroline , Jung Andreas , Moeller Alexander , Geiser Thomas , Regamey Nicolas , Alves Marco P. 
Published: November 2015

Vitamin D has immunomodulatory properties in the defence against pathogens. Its insufficiency is a widespread feature of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, which are repeatedly suffering from rhinovirus (RV)-induced pulmonary exacerbations.To investigate whether vitamin D has antiviral activity, primary bronchial epithelial cells from CF children were pre-treated with vitamin D and infected with RV16. Antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity of vitamin D was assessed. RV and LL-37 levels were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of CF children infected with RV.Vitamin D reduced RV16 load in a dose-dependent manner in CF cells (10−7 M, p<0.01). The antiviral response mediated by interferons remained unchanged by vitamin D in CF cells. Vitamin D did not exert anti-inflammatory properties in RV-infected CF cells. Vitamin D increased the expression of the antimicrobial peptide LL-37 up to 17.4-fold (p<0.05). Addition of exogenous LL-37 decreased viral replication by 4.4-fold in CF cells (p<0.05). An inverse correlation between viral load and LL-37 levels in CF BAL (r=−0.48, p<0.05) was observed.RV replication in primary CF bronchial cells was reduced by vitamin D through the induction of LL-37. Clinical studies are needed to determine the importance of an adequate control of vitamin D for prevention of virus-induced pulmonary CF exacerbations.
Angle‐torque relationship of the subtalar pronators and supinators in younger and elderly males and females
Authors: Hagen Marco , Sanchez‐Bergmann Daniel , Seidel Sebastian , Lahner Matthias 
Published: November 2015

AbstractBackgroundThe angle‐dependent torque capacity of the subtalar pronators and supinators is important to maintain dynamic ankle stabilisation. Based on the peak torques during maximum voluntary isometric pronation and supination across the subtalar range of motion, the strength curves of younger and elderly males and females were investigated.MethodsMaximum voluntary isometric subtalar pronator and supinator strength tests were administered to 30 younger and 30 elderly volunteers (each 15 male and 15 female subjects). Total active subtalar range of motion and peak pronator and supinator torques were measured in five anatomical subtalar joint angles using a custom‐built apparatus with two force transducers. Furthermore, relative torques (normalised to the individual peak torque) and pronator‐to‐supinator strength‐ratios were also calculated.ResultsPronator‐to‐supinator strength ratio, and peak pronator and supinator torques are affected by age and by joint angle x age interactions. All supinator strength curves show a steadily descending characteristic from the pronated to the supinated positions. The pronator strength curve had an inverted U‐shaped characteristic, except for younger women of whom 47 % exert highest peak values in the end‐range pronation angle. Both relative pronator and supinator strength are dependent on sex (P < 0.05). Relative pronator strength is also affected by joint angle x sex (P < 0.0001) and joint angle x sex x age (P < 0.05) interactions. Beside age effects on all range of motion parameters, pronation range of motion is influenced by a sex x age interaction (P < 0.05).ConclusionsAge‐ and sex‐related differences in both subtalar strength profile and range of motion have to be considered when testing strength across subtalar range of motion. Younger females have higher pronator strength capacity in the most pronated joint angle, which may be due in part to their greater subtalar joint range of motion compared to the other groups. In the most supinated position both pronator and supinator strength capacity is reduced in younger females compared to younger males.