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Jun 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-25-5560
Bai YeonCorresponding author
The benefits of exclusive breastfeeding are well-known. Despite the legislative and systemic efforts to promote breastfeeding in South Korea, the nation’s current rate of exclusive breastfeeding (5.2%) during the infant’s first six months is alarming. Under the framework of the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study elicited the beliefs around exclusive breastfeeding commonly held by low-income women participating in NutriPlus, the community nutrition program. Using a convenient sampling method, online open-ended surveys were conducted with two program clinics in Seoul during spring of 2024. The survey included questions about their demography and beliefs regarding indirect theoretical constructs of the exclusive breastfeeding behavior by listing top three things that came to their mind. A total of 120 NutriPlus clients participated in this survey. Though 53.1% of postpartum women were breastfeeding, only 28.1% were breastfeeding exclusively. Based on most frequently mentioned beliefs, we classified them to behavioral, normative, and control beliefs under TPB. Modal behavioral beliefs were healthy babies (n=87) and mother-baby bonding (n=71) and feeding issues (n=96) and inconvenience resulting from the act of breastfeeding (n=86). Family members seemed to shape both positive (n=122) and negative (n=37) normative beliefs. The presence of support (n=84) mattered to facilitate breastfeeding, while feeding issues (n=98) played as barriers. Promotion efforts need to emphasize breastfeeding knowledge and skill building and include family members and society at large to improve the awareness and transform barriers of breastfeeding to facilitators.
Mar 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-24-4984
H. Al-Sadeeq AidaCorresponding author
Introduction Children with complicated Severe Acute Malnutrtion (SAM) admitted to Therapeutic Feeding Center (TFC), and ‘uncomplicated’ SAM managed in Outpatient Therapeutic Program (OTP). Objective This study aims to examine the anthropometric differences between SAM admitted to TFC and OTP. Methods A hospital based case control study conducted in the Therapeutic Feeding Program (TFP) of Al-Sadaka General Teaching hospital, Aden, included complicated (cases) and uncomplicated (control) severely wasted 6-60 month old children admitted between July 2022 to June 2023. The WHO anthropometric calculator was used to assess every child’s weight-for-length/height SD and length/height for age SD. Results A total of 313 cases and 122 controls were admitted, mean age, weight, length/height, and MUAC among the cases were (13.04±7.34 mo., 5.41±1.33 kg, 68.32±7.10 cm, and 10.57±1.36 cm) respectively; while among the controls were (20.05±12.93 mo., 7.05±1.74 kg, 76.89±10.46 cm, and 11.28±1.11 cm) respectively. Severe wasting by WFL/H < - 3SD z- score seen more among the controls; cases vs controls were (37.0% vs 68.9%). Howevere, the other groups of severity of WFL/H z-score were seen with nearly douple frequencies among the case vs the controls (35.8% vs 18.8% < - 4SD), (14.7 vs 7.4% < - 5SD). Less than – 6SD was seen much more among the cases vs the controls (8.6% vs 1.6%). Less than – 7 SD among the cases was 1.3% and no children belong to this group in the controls.. The majority of the cases belonged to the age group 6-24 months. Conclusion Children a dmitted to TFC had severe wasting reaching up to < - 6 and < - 7 SD below the WHO cut-off, WFL/H < - 3SD z-score, and at an early age, with simultaneous presence of severe stunting and low MUAC which denotes high mortality risk.
Jan 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-23-4865
Abdullahi Dahie HassanCorresponding author
Background Breastfeeding is a vital practice for infant health and well-being, with exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) during the first six months being particularly crucial. Despite its benefits, EBF is sub-optimally practiced in many low-to-middle income countries. This study focuses on Somalia, a country with historical political instability and poor health indicators, aiming to identify the prevalence and determinants of exclusive breastfeeding among women with infants under six months attending SOS Mother and Child Hospital in Mogadishu. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional design was used, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The study sample consisted of 345 mothers, selected using a systematic sampling technique. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess breastfeeding practices and determine factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding prevalence. Result The study found that the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among the study population in Somalia was 44%, influenced by factors such as maternal education, employment, and utilization of antenatal and postnatal care services. Male infants and younger infants had higher odds of being exclusively breastfed. Conclusion and recommendations The study emphasizes the importance of promoting exclusive breastfeeding as the optimal feeding practice for infants in Somalia, highlighting the need for comprehensive health education during antenatal care visits and postnatal counseling. It recommends the development of supportive policies, such as maternity leave and workplace accommodations, along with community-based initiatives and support groups to facilitate and encourage exclusive breastfeeding practices.
Mar 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4116
Shuja SabaCorresponding author
Background In Low Middle-Income Countries (LIMCs), malnutrition, especially undernutrition is one of the leading causes of childhood mortality and morbidity. Poor complementary feeding practices are among the most notable contributors to poor nutritional indicators in children under five. This article provides an output of secondary data analysis of the Cost of Diet (CoD) and Optifood component of National Complementary Feeding Assessment conducted by UNICEF Pakistan along with Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (PDHS) 2018. Methods For correlation of Optifood data and CoD data with PDHS data of CF, GraphPad software, MS Excel was used along with manual quantifications. The analysis of DHS-2018 data was conducted using STATA software. Univariate analysis included comparison of categorical variables i.e. various individual, household and community level parameters with that of outcome variables of minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF) and minimum dietary diversity (MAD) using chi-square test. Findings The overall rate of MMF was 56.6% among children of 6-23 months of age with MDD in 18.6% and MAD in 13.8% of children. Percentage of annual cost spent on nutritious diet for MDD, MMF and MAD varies from 27.86% to 43.08% across all the provinces. Children aged 6–8 months and 9–11 months often consumed infant milk and cereals, while children aged 12–23 months often consumed eggs and grain products. Consumption of dairy products was highest in Punjab, Sindh, AJK, and Islamabad, that of grains roots and tubers was highest in KPK, FATA and GB. Conclusion Considering CF practices in Pakistan are inadequate as indicated by poor MDD, MMF, and MAD, therefore it is imperative that a holistic approach using both communication and non-communication based interventions is to be employed through active stakeholder engagement.
May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4190
Bartle JodieCorresponding author
Department of Nutrition & Food Services, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne.
Background Nutrition support during the acute phase post allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is required to optimise short- and long-term outcomes for children. An algorithm was developed and evaluated to assist clinicians to make objective and consistent enteral feeding decisions. Methods The algorithm was evaluated on all patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT treatment between November 2017 - February 2019. Results Of the 48 patients, 43 had a nasogastric tube (NGT) inserted, of which 36 patients received a hydrolysed peptide-based formula, 5 patients received a whole protein formula only and 2 patients were fed an amino acid-based formula. Parenteral nutrition (PN) was used in 41 of the patients. Eleven did not have an NGT in-situ at the commencement of HSCT. Of the remaining 37 patients, 26 followed the algorithm and 11 patients did not comply. The group of patients who did not follow the algorithm had the longest median length of stay (LOS) of 49 days. Patients receiving only EN had the lowest median LOS of 30 days. The two groups that reported better weight outcomes were those who followed the algorithm and those who were fully EN fed. Conclusions Effective use of the HSCT feeding algorithm indicated improved patient outcomes for children undergoing HSCT, with better weight outcomes and reduced LOS. Recommendations to improve the efficacy and compliance of the algorithm include regular education/input to the oncology medical teams to better understand objective thresholds for EN and PN commencement.
Aug 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2876
Oladejo T AdepojuCorresponding author
Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices directly affect the nutritional status of children under two years of age, and ultimately, impact child survival. These practices are influenced by maternal knowledge and attitudes as well as socio-demographic and cultural factors; and an understanding of such factors is important to scaling up IYCF practices. This study was designed to assess the role of religion on knowledge, attitude and infant feeding practices among Christian and Muslim lactating mothers in Ibadan North Local Government Area (LGA), Oyo State. The descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 lactating mothers in the LGA. Eight focus group discussions were carried out among Christian and Muslim lactating mothers. An adapted pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect information on socio-demographic characteristics and IYCF knowledge, attitude and practices of the respondents. Knowledge on IYCF was assessed on 14-item scale, and the scores categorised as: ˂5.60 poor, 5.60–10.88 fair, and ˃10.88 good knowledge. Attitude was assessed on 13 statements from the IOWA Infant Feeding Attitude scale with lowest and highest obtainable score of 13 and 65 respectively. A score of ˂44 was ranked as poor, and ˃44 points good. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. Mean age of respondents was 30.0±4.9 years, 55.9% were Muslims, and 63.8% had fair knowledge. There was no significant difference in fair knowledge categorisation (63.7%, 63.8%), but there existed slight difference in good (20.7%, 21.3%) and poor (15.6%, 14.9%) knowledge of the Muslim and Christian respondents respectively. Mothers with poor attitude constituted 56.0%. Muslim religion directly supports pre-lacteal feeding and duration of breastfeeding while the other indirectly supports breastfeeding. Religious practices directly and indirectly affect knowledge, attitude and practices of nursing mothers on infant feeding; hence, healthcare Professionals should pay more attention to nutrition education in religious houses using the infant and young child feeding module.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2721
Habulembe Mugode RaiderCorresponding author
National Food and Nutrition Commission, Lusaka, Zambia
Introduction In the past several decades, Zambia has suffered high levels of under nutrition particularly stunting among children below 5 years of age. Although appropriate complementary feeding practices are reported to reduce child deaths by 6%, they have not received the adequate attention from programme officers and caregivers in terms of implementation. Objectives The objective was to investigate issues surrounding the common complementary feeding practices practised by caregivers of children below five years in health facilities and areas where high rates of malnutrition admission come from. Design A cross sectional research using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The study used mostly proportions based mostly on global indicators on complementary feeding. Qualitative data was also analysed according to themes of global complementary feeding indicators Setting The study was conducted in five hospitals, namely Arthur Davison, Solwezi Central, Kabwe and Livingstone General, and University Teaching Hospital. Subjects The target populations were mothers whose children were admitted for malnutrition and those with children 0-59 months living in communities with the highest number of malnourished cases admitted to selected hospitals Results About45.2% (190) of caregivers introduced liquids before six months of age and 7.6% (32) after 6 months attributing child thirst, medication and advice from health worker as the main reasons. Slightly above half (54.2% of 224) of mothers/caregivers used cups to feed their babies. The use of feeding bottles was still common (8.2% of 34). Responsibility to feed the child is mostly left to the mother (86.4%, 362). In addition, children were being feed about 2.67 (SD 0-72) per day. Conclusions Child feeding practices were still poor. This contributes to poor child growth and health. More interventions should be planned to improve child care behaviour.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-690X.jfm-18-2252
Cherif LeilaCorresponding author
Hedi Chaker Hospital, Child and adolescent psychiatry Department, Avenue Majida Boulila, 3029 Sfax, Tunisie.
Background: Feeding problems are common in autism. Parents are frequently worried about the health status of their children, which may be threatened by some consequent nutritional deficiencies. Despite this, feeding behaviours remain little explored by clinicians working with children with autism spectrum disorders and researches are lacking especially in Tunisia. Aims: To evaluate the frequency and the types of feeding problems in children with autism spectrum disorders. Settings and Design: A comparison was made between 57 children with autism spectrum disorders and 57 control groups regarding the feeding problems. Parents completed the children’s eating behavior inventory (CEBI). Autism severity is evaluated using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale. The SPSS statistical package, version 20.0 was used. Results: According to the CEBI, children with autism spectrum disorders showed more feeding problems than the control group (82.4% versus 56.1%, p=0.002). In fact, the parents of these children observed more pica habits on their children compared to the control group (p=0.000). They also observed more selectivity for starchy foods compared to the control group (p=0.000). The more the autistic symptoms were severe, the more children exhibited feeding problems (p=0.02). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that feeding problems are more common in children with autism. Clinical implications trigger the need for clinicians to provide the necessary assessment and treatment.
Jul 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-0105.jbfb-16-1121
Anderson GeorgeCorresponding author
CRC Scotland & London, Eccleston Square, London, UK.
The biological underpinnings that drive the plethora of breastfeeding benefits over formula-feeding is an area of intense research, given the cognitive and emotional benefits as well as the offsetting of many childhood- and adult-onset medical conditions that breast-feeding provides. In this article, we review the research on the role of melatonin in driving some of these breastfeeding benefits. Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive as well as optimizing mitochondrial function. Melatonin is produced by the placenta and, upon parturition, maternal melatonin is passed to the infant upon breastfeeding with higher levels in night-time breast milk. As such, some of the benefits of breastfeeding may be mediated by the higher levels of maternal circulating night-time melatonin, allowing for circadian and antioxidant effects, as well as promoting the immune and mitochondrial regulatory aspects of melatonin; these actions may positively modulate infant development. Herein, it is proposed that some of the benefits of breastfeeding may be mediated by melatonin's regulation of the infant's gut microbiota and immune responses. As such, melatonin is likely to contribute to the early developmental processes that affect the susceptibility to a range of adult onset conditions. Early research on animal models has shown promising results for the regulatory role of melatonin.
Nov 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-5360
Alam RashedCorresponding author
Background Malnutrition is a significant public health issue in Bangladesh, particularly impacting women and children. Rajshahi, marked by socio-economic disparities, offers a distinctive context to explore the nutritional status and health outcomes of these vulnerable groups. Objectives This study aims to assess the nutritional status of women and children in Rajshahi and investigate associated health outcomes. Additionally, it seeks to identify socio-economic and cultural factors that influence nutrition. Methods A mixed-methods approach was utilized, incorporating a cross-sectional survey of 460 households and in-depth interviews with mothers and caregivers. Anthropometric measurements were taken to evaluate the nutritional status of women and children, while dietary assessments measured nutrient intake and diversity. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the likelihood of malnutrition based on socio-economic characteristics, thereby identifying key risk factors. Results The findings indicate a troubling prevalence of malnutrition, with 36% of children under five classified as stunted and 25% as underweight. The analysis highlights critical factors contributing to chronic undernutrition, including maternal education, employment, and dietary diversity. Notably, mothers aged 27-37 exhibit a lower risk of undernutrition, and urban households with secure food access demonstrate better nutritional outcomes. Discussion Maternal education and employment were positively associated with better nutritional outcomes, as educated and employed mothers had higher chances of maintaining a normal BMI. Regular ANC visits (≥4 visits) were crucial for improved maternal nutrition. Household food security emerged as a significant determinant, with food-secure households showing better maternal nutritional status. Safe water access and adequate dietary diversity were also linked to improved maternal BMI. Additionally, factors such as child birth weight, exclusive breastfeeding, and childhood diarrhea significantly influenced maternal nutrition. Moreover, frequent antenatal care visits and a diverse diet are vital in mitigating undernutrition risks among children. Conclusion This study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions to combat malnutrition in Rajshahi. Recommendations include implementing community-based nutrition education programs and improving access to healthcare services. By addressing the socio-economic and cultural determinants of nutrition, stakeholders can enhance health outcomes for women and children in the region, ultimately contributing to broader public health objectives in Bangladesh.
Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-0282.imsj-25-5590
R. Hodgson BruceCorresponding author
The main diet of baleen whales is krill in the Arctic, Antarctic and during migrations in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. Hence, the aim of this paper is to quantify the global importance of the krill to baleen whale component of the pelagic food web and possible feedback loops. That was undertaken by comparing the results of Ecopath Models in the Antarctic and Arctic Oceans and to migration areas in the North Atlantic and Alaska, was well as the large Seamount area from the Antarctic and Arctic. Biological production transfer is the essential component of the prey to predator pelagic food web, which maintains the production of predators. The importance of sustaining global baleen whale migrations is to support ecosystem production by whale defecation contribution to nutrient recycling. It is important to sustain krill and fish abundance in whale migration feeding areas using ecosystem-based fishery management (EBFM) fishing rates. It was shown by the literature that migrations tended to followed deep-sea seamounts, and baleen whale defecation and nutrient cycling at seamounts led to the effects of nutrient upwelling by deep sea currents at seamounts. Hence, it is suggested seamounts be protected as important marine ecosystems. Therefore, those processes indicate sustaining krill and whale abundance is likely to support global marine ecosystem stability in open ocean migration areas.
Dec 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-2248.jwl-24-5308
Piumal HarshaCorresponding author
Interspecific predation within Odonata is a critical yet underexplored aspect of their ecological interactions. This short communication reports a novel observation of Ischnura senegalensis preying upon Agriocnemis pygmaea in rice fields at the Faculty of Agriculture, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka. Documented on March 22, 2024, during the reproductive stage of the rice field, the predatory event involved a female I. senegalensis feeding on the head of a female A. pygmaea. Predation, characterized by the use of mandibles and lasting at least 15 minutes, reveals significant predatory efficiency and behavioral specialization. This observation fills a gap in the understanding of I. senegalensis feeding behavior in Sri Lanka and contributes to the broader knowledge of Odonate predator-prey dynamics. The findings highlight the importance of these interactions in maintaining ecological balance and suggest further research into the impacts of such predatory behaviors on agricultural ecosystems.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2998-1506.jpa-22-4349
Abdou Ousseini ArdalyCorresponding author
Sorghum is important staple food for feeding humans and animals in sub-Saharan African country. Nowadays, with the advent of climate change couple to the population growth, the crop is faced to new challenges wish are gradually affecting the productivity. In Niger, a dry land country where farmers are growing sorghum at a small scale for family subsistence, the crop is confronted to biotic and abioticonstraints including nutrient deficiency in the soil. Among those constraint, Striga is the one that causes huge damage to sorghum cultivation through yield reduction. In addition, nutrient depletion in the soil are causing weed progresses in farmer’s field at a large scale. In fact, to overcome Striga problem several control methods have been successfully tested, but some of them are efficient but not accessible to farmers. It is important to control the weed by using effective and accessible way for smallholder farme in Niger. The main objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of different doses of sesame (0, 0.5 and 1.5 g) and DAP (0, 2 and 5 g) on Striga impact and sorghum grain yield. Two (2) grammes micro dosing utilization of DAP shows good result in Striga plant emergency and distribution along sorghum field. Concerning the three doses of sesame seed involve in this experiment, the micro dosing two (1.5 g) positively affect Striga effect. The combination sesame seed and DAP can significantly reduce Striga impact on sorghum cultivation and increased sorghum grain yield.
Jan 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-5257.ijgp-23-4772
M. G. D. V. K KiridanaCorresponding author
Childhood obesity is on the rise, mostly in the low-income regions in South Asia including Sri Lanka. Simultaneously, undernutrition also continues to be an ongoing public health issue. The coexistence of childhood obesity with undernutrition has resulted in a double burden of malnutrition in these countries. Management of obesity in a community already affected by undernutrition is a challenging situation. At present, management of childhood obesity occurs as a hospital-based lifestyle modification intervention which cannot address all tiers in the community alike. Although national level multifaceted strategies are in place, implementation is limited due to financial constraints. In this context, the general practitioners can be considered as an important group of medical professionals who can reach families in the community. In many households in Sri Lanka, an overweight child is considered as normal and well-nourished in comparison to an underweight child. Unhealthy eating habits and force feeding have become norms in the society. Changing mindsets of people need significant time and commitment. General practitioners, in the community would be able to achieve this target through effective communication based on a nutrition sensitive approach. While uplifting the infrastructure facilities, steps have to be taken to update the knowledge and communication skills of the general practitioners on managing childhood obesity in a community affected with double burden of malnutrition. The well-equipped GP is an asset to modify the attitudes and thinking patterns of parents with regard to child nutritional problems. Childhood obesity is on the rise, mostly in the low-income regions in South Asia including Sri Lanka. Simultaneously, undernutrition also continues to be an ongoing public health issue. The coexistence of childhood obesity with undernutrition has resulted in a double burden of malnutrition in these countries. Management of obesity in a community already affected by undernutrition is a challenging situation. At present, management of childhood obesity occurs as a hospital-based lifestyle modification intervention which cannot address all tiers in the community alike. Although national level multifaceted strategies are in place, implementation is limited due to financial constraints. In this context, the general practitioners can be considered as an important group of medical professionals who can reach families in the community. In many households in Sri Lanka, an overweight child is considered as normal and well-nourished in comparison to an underweight child. Unhealthy eating habits and force feeding have become norms in the society. Changing mindsets of people need significant time and commitment. General practitioners, in the community would be able to achieve this target through effective communication based on a nutrition sensitive approach. While uplifting the infrastructure facilities, steps have to be taken to update the knowledge and communication skills of the general practitioners on managing childhood obesity in a community affected with double burden of malnutrition. The well-equipped GP is an asset to modify the attitudes and thinking patterns of parents with regard to child nutritional problems.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-23-4636
M. Yagoub HassanCorresponding author
The present study aimed to provide baseline information of fish culture status (obstacles) of Omdurman, Khartoum and Khartoum north in the Khartoum state in Sudan due to there is little or lack of information in this field. 30 owners of farm were questioned from Omdurman, Khartoum and Khartoum north, 10 farms for each location; Descriptive analysis was done for analyzing the raw data of the study by using Excel Microsoft Software 2007. Social data showed that male farm owners group was dominant in third sites 100%. Age groups of fishermen ranged between 20 to 60 years; where age group 31- 40 Khartoum north, age group 41- 50 was dominant in O mdurman and age group 51-60 year was dominant in Khartoum. Six educational categories were recorded where University education was dominant in the three locations 50%, 50% and 70% respectively; whereas, postgraduate was the second in the tow location: O mdurman and Khartoum 20% and the secondary education were the third in Khartoum 30%. all farm owners were married 100% in three sites; As regards to the farm owners other activities results showed that most of them were practicing other activities (farmers, business owner, officers and workers). Category of farmer was dominant 90% secondly business owner and officer 70% and 50% respectively. Data showed that the problems (Varanus niloticus, birds, marketing, fees and thefts) was dominant in three locations had the highest percentage 90%, 80%, 60%, 30% and 10% respectively. and according to production cost in three locations arranged: (feeds, workers, fingerlings, water and technical supervision) 50, and 70% and 40%, 50% and 70% and 30%, 40% and 50% and 10, 20 and 40% and 10, 20 and 30% respectively. Category of feeds dominant followed by workers and fingerlings, the best Method to obtain of information, the results showed that Bulletins was dominant in three sites 80%, 30% and 90%; whereas, field visits in three location was the second 60%, 90% and 0%, Radio programs in three location was the third 60%, 10% and 60% and the lowest percentage; Seminars and television 40%, 50% and 40%, and 30%, 0% and 0%. For the best location to obtain information results revealed that the General Director of Fisheries Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Resources and Irrigation - Khartoum State was dominant in the three locations 90%, 80% and 90%, whereas, Universities in three location was the second 40%, 20% and 0%, and the lowest percentage Central Research of fisheries 40%, 0% and 0%, and Internet 10%, 20% and30%. Also result showed most of the farm owners in three sites all them need to training courses in deferent programmers (Fish extinction, Fish feeding, Fish production and Fish marketing) according to this percentages 60%, 30% and 50%, and 30%, 10% and 50%, and 10%, 10% and 30%, and 10%, 0% and 20% respectively.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2998-4785.ijne-23-4798
Belle Jarvis ShivonCorresponding author
Gastric pneumatosis though rare, when seen is cause for concern. It has been associated with fulminant necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and gastric outlet obstruction, although other associations have been identified. It is not to be confused with pneumoperitoneum and can be managed conservatively as it is not always a harbinger of intestinal perforation. This case report highlights gastric pneumatosis which occurred in association with necrotizing enterocolitis in two late preterm infants. NEC accounts for 5.4% of our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit admissions, however these are the first two cases of gastric pneumatosis seen in the history of our unit. It is crucial for clinical staff to be cognizant of this pathognomonic sign so that cases are not missed, and for the feeding policy that governs the management of late preterm infants to be revisited. That which specifically predisposes a baby with NEC to developing gastric pneumatosis remains unknown and warrants further research.
Apr 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-22-4417
Mostafa M. Sabra SherifaCorresponding author
United States of America (USA), Australia, and Canada recommending children computer-use should be imperfect. It obligated a strong influence on children’s lives. The problem was for stuck in the computer-use for a long time per day. The goal was to follow child-health in the Arab-community to notice its influence on the child-health. The method was through a arithmetical study by sending Internet questionnaire and receiving the parents' advice. The results were in the 500 parent answers and 14 comments. The first was "You have a child up to 13 years old?"; 83.6%. The second was "Your child used a computer?"; 80.8%. The third was "Your child used the computer for a long time?"; 67.9%. The fourth was "The computer caused a health problem for your child?"; 70.3%. The fifth was "The computer caused your child mental disorder?"; 68.5%. The sixth was "The computer caused your child trouble seeing?"; 77.2%. The seventh was "The computer caused your child trouble sleeping?"; 72.0%. The eighth 8 was "The computer caused your child feeding problem?"; 69.5%. The ninth was "The computer caused your child family relationship problem?", 72.0%. The tenth was "Prevent your child from using the computer to protect his health?"; 79.0%. It was concluded that the extent of the harms of child computer-use from a health and psychological point. They have young and sensitive tissues. The computer-use affected them, child-health. It was recommended the parents instructions will protect children from the computer-use for long periods. That will reduce child-health and psychological problems.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-2165.jfsh-20-3579
Bedada ShumiCorresponding author
Disease Control and Prevention Department, Bale Zone Health Office, Robe, Ethiopia.
Introduction Foodborne diseases are a major public health problem which predominantly affects infants and young children. Appropriate complementary food hygiene practice is very important to reduce the prevalence of foodborne illnesses. However, the information regarding this practice is not available and assessed before. Thus, the study was aimed to assess complementary food hygiene practices among mothers of children aged 6-23 months. Methods A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Robe town on a samples of 517 mother-child pairs, which were selected by using systematic sampling technique. Data was collected using pre-tested and structured questionnaire, and each variable was described in the frequency and percentage. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with complementary food hygiene practice. Odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were used to assess levels of significance. Result The result indicated that 55% of participated mothers scored above the mean score of food hygiene practices. Mothers of children aged 12-23 months had higher odds to practice good food hygiene measures than those of aged 6-11 months (AOR, 1.82 95% CI (1.21, 2.73)). Mothers whose children attended growth monitoring session practice good food hygiene than their counterpart (AOR, 2.74 95% CI (1.49, 5.06)). Mothers having media exposure, and having knowledge on critical times of hand washing had relatively good food hygiene measures (AOR, 0.73 95 CI (1.14, 2.62)). Among food hygiene measures; handwashing with water and soap were low before eating food (17%), before feeding children (21%) and before preparing food (32%) when compared with after visiting the toilet (81%) and touching dirt (68%). Conclusion and Recommendation The study identified that food hygiene practices in the current study were mainly associated with child age, growth monitoring follow-up, maternal awareness about critical times of hand washing, and media exposure. So, improving knowledge of mothers on critical times of handwashing, strengthening growth monitoring follow-up and media promotion are important measures to improve food hygiene practices among mothers of infants and young children.
Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3859
Erigene RutayisireCorresponding author
Public Health Department, Mount Kenya University Rwanda
In Rwanda, 38% children aged 6-59 months are stunted. In Ngoma District, stunting rate is estimated at 41% among the children aged below 5 years. The study objective was to evaluate the prevalence and factors contributing to under nutrition among children aged 6- 59 months in Ngoma District. Cluster sampling was used to determine the study participants for each sector within 14 sectors by considering the sample size of 442. The WHO Anthro software version 3.2.2 was used to determine the nutritional status of the children. SPSS version 24 was used for analysis. Of 442 children participated in the study 50.9% of them were females, 24.4% were aged 15-23 months and the majority of children (89.8%) born with normal birth weight. Study findings revealed that the prevalence of under nutrition was 33.7% for stunting, 3.6% for wasting and 6.6% underweighted. Poor sanitation facility (AOR: 4.1, 95%CI: 1.83-9.3, p=0.001), poor diet (AOR: 1.9, 95%CI: 1.18-3, p=0.008) were significantly associated with stunting. Factors such as lack of hand-washing facilities (AOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.013-6.3, p=0.047), not eat vegetables (AOR: 4.4, 95%CI: 1.7-10.96, p=0.001), and not eat fishes (AOR: 4.1, 95%CI: 1.6-10.6, p=0.003) were associated with wasting. Short breastfeeding duration (AOR: 4.5, 95%CI: 2.9-7.2, p=0.001), not eat vegetables (AOR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.1-3.05, p=0.008), and not eat eggs (AOR: 2, 95%CI: 1.3-2.9, p=0.001) were associated with underweight. Poor families with under-five children need continuous support that will assist them to improve nutritional status of their children.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3782
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
A systematic use of biofertilizers can improve both the quality of a farming system and the parameters of milk. Some issues related to biofertilization experiments on six farms in the Po Valley (NW Italy) involved in the production of milk from dairy cattle fed maize silage or grazed on hay produced from permanent meadows are reported in this paper. Biofertilized maize was found to lower the live stem pH by about 2.3%, and NIR spectroscopy foreshadowing major changes in the composition. Overall, the plant silage was improved in quantity (+10%) but also in quality, as shown by the delayed maturity stage of the leaves (crop maturity index -4%), the lower indigestible NDF content (-7%), and the higher digestible carbohydrates and protein in the whole plants. Such favorable feeding conditions, together with the improved palatability of the feed ration, boosted the nutrient values of the protein (+4.6%) and fat contents (+5.7%) in the milk. Moreover, the functional properties of the milk were ameliorated, as testified by the higher levels of vitamin A (+27%) and vitamin E (+25%) and the reduced levels of saturated fatty acids (-6%), especially myristic (-18%) and stearic (-32%) acids, while the unsaturated acids increased by 15%. As far as economy aspects are concerned, the biofertilization of maize for silage has led to consistent rewards pertaining to the marginal price of the milk, which in turn has led to a value chain increase of about 9%, because of the fields cultivation, but mainly of the cow transformation in milk quality issues. On another farm, intensive maize was substituted with permanent biofertilized meadows, over a greening path, and a + 17% value chain increase was obtained that already derived mainly from the best price for milk quality parameters. Such an evolutionary leap toward a new vision of sustainable agriculture for the environment and for animals, in which a better quality of products, animal welfare and company budget are combined with soil biofertilization, can be considered a bonanza.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-20-3537
O AzuonwuCorresponding author
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Bacteriology/Virology/Parasitology Unit, Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
This study investigated the potential pathogenic bacteria that are associated with domestic dog stool in Port Harcourt Metropolis. Convenience sampling techniques were used for sample collection outcome. A total of fifty dog stool samples were collected aseptically into a sterile stool container from different locations (Agip Estate, Rumuokoro Community, Government Residential Area, Sand-fill Borokiri, Port Harcourt Township, and Rivers State University lecturers’ quarters) all within Port Harcourt City. Bacteriological analysis was determined using standard microbiological analytical and identification techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 21 for frequency, percentage, prevalence rate and correlation at 0.01 and 0.05 level of significance. Potential pathogens with associated percentages that were isolated are E coli (20.0%), Klebsiella species (16.0%), Pseudomonas species (4.0%), Proteus species (28.0%), Bacillus species (4.0%), Staphylococcus aureus (14.0%), and unidentified [other Staphylococcus species] (4.0%). However, the research further revealed that Proteus species (28.0%), was the most prevalent pathogen, while Bacillus species (4.0%), Pseudomonas species (4.0%), and Streptococcus species (4.0%), were the least prevalent among pet dogs studied. The correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between isolates with socio-demographic data of pet owner and Pet biodata respectively. From the analysis, correlation coefficient values of .269 and .124 were obtained for Age of Pet Owner and Gender of Owner respectively. It also show a direct correlation but by implication, a very weak, non-significant (p<0.05) relationship existed between the organisms isolated and the variables (Age of Pet Owner and Gender of Pet Owner). However, no relationship exists between isolates and visit to vet Doctor (r-0.038; p>0.05). Furthermore, negative non-significant correlation (p>0.05) was observed for marital status of Pet Owner (r=-.158) and Age of Pet (r=-.023) and isolate. Also, correlation association between isolates and some risk factors using the correlation analysis matrix revealed an indication of an indirect but moderate association between isolates and Caressing (r=-.347, p=0.01). However, other risk factors like vaccination (r=.042), Feeding Pattern(r=.125), Pet Bathing (r=.220) and Eating with pet in same plate (r=.146), did not prove statistical significance at p>0.05. The results from the study strongly suggest that pet dogs carry potential pathogenic organisms in their faecal matter that can serve as a source of infection to the pet owners. It is, therefore, very critical that these pets should be treated and possibly vaccinated frequently, even as their faecal matters should be well disposed to prevent possible zoonotic infectious epidemic outbreak in our global communities.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3488
Boukerrouche AbdelkaderCorresponding author
Department of Digestive Surgery, Hospital of Beni-Messous, University of Algiers, Algiers, Algeria.
Esophagectony remains a high-risk surgical procedure. Esophageal cancer is often associated with a weight loss. The best nutritional condition is crucial for successful oesophageal surgery. The increased septic complications and costs have limited the wide use of total parenteral nutrition. Currently, enteral nutrition is the preferred nutrition method following esophagectomy. However; jejunostomy-tube was associated with rare major complications that may lead to discontinuing nutrition. Choosing an enteral feeding route after esophagectomy depends greatly on the surgeon preference. The safety and benefits of early oral feeding on outcomes after major gastrointestinal surgery have been well documented. However, the surgical community is still reticent about initiating early oral feeding after esophageal surgery. Despite the limited number of published reports, comparative trials have clearly shown the feasibility, safety with no increase in morbidity rate.In this brief review, we tried to discuss the different routes of nutritional support after oesophagectomy with providing the current insights on early oral feeding.
Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-20-3312
I. A AdebayoCorresponding author
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
An 84 day feeding trial was conducted on the juveniles (42.51±0.09g) of hybrid catfish, Heteroclarias, in order to evaluate the nutritional potential of 30 minutes autoclaved castor seed cake isonitrogenous (40% crude protein) and isocaloric (3212Kcal/Kg) diets replacing soybean meal at 0, 12.5, 25, 37.5 and 50%, the diets being designated D1, D2, D3, D4 and D5 respectively. Prior to this, the castor seeds (Ricinus communis L.), ZiboCastor No. 3 variety, collected from Ado-Ekiti metropolis, Nigeria were subjected to 0, 20, 30 and 40 minutes autoclaved at 121oC, dehauled, grounded, oil extracted to form cake, then the proximate and antinutrients analysis were carried out. The preliminary tests on the seeds revealed 30 minutes level of autoclaved seeds was the best. The growth performance result showed that there were significant differences (p<0.05) in the mean weight gain (MWG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER) and apparent net protein utilization (NPU) among the various diet levels with the progressive decline in the values of each parameter (except FCR that showed progressive increment) along the trend of increment of castor seed cake inclusion (D1, 0%; D2, 12.5%; D3, 25%; D4, 37.5% and D5, 50%). The survival rate followed the same trend of declination with the highest percentage recorded for D1 (93.33±6.67%), followed by D2 (83.33±3.33%), D3 (76.57±3.33%), D4 (66.67±3.33%) and D5 (60.00±5.77%) respectively. Hence the best growth performance and nutrient utilization was shown in D1 (control) followed by D2. It is therefore recommended that autoclaved castor seed cake at 121oC be included at not more than 12.5% inclusion level to reduce cost of feed without necessarily compromising fish growth rate.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3261
Dzinamarira TafadzwaCorresponding author
Department of Public Health, Mount Kenya University Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
Efforts to control the Human Immunodeficiency Virus epidemic in Rwanda have seen remarkable success over the years. Effective antiretroviral therapy has played great role in improving longevity among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). While this is the case, there are various nutritional challenges, which are often faced, among PLWH. Guided by the Rwanda country guidelines for nutritional management for PLWH and WHO recommendations, this study aimed to explore the perspectives of health care providers (HCPs) working with PLWH on nutritional challenges faced by their clients in Kigali, Rwanda. We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews to collect data. A non-probability purposive sampling was employed to recruit HCPs. Data analysis was based on the naturalistic paradigm. We followed the hybrid approach in conducting thematic analysis. Three themes were identified. First, HCPs had good knowledge on nutritional requirements for PLWH. They demonstrated good communication skills and adequate counseling skills that were necessary for addressing concerns on nutrition from their clients. Secondly, it emerged that HCPs perceived a lack of resources to be the major challenge faced in nutritional management of their clients. From theme three, it emerged that, from HCPs experiences, food insecurity and lack of feeding supplements were the main causes of malnutrition among PLWH in Kigali, Rwanda. From the HCPs perspective, there is a need to improve healthcare institutions capacity to manage nutritional challenges faced by PLWH. To achieve this, policy makers need to channel adequate resources for this cause.
Nov 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-3083
Ververs MijaCorresponding author
Senior Nutritionist/Health Scientist, Emergency Response and Recovery Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Background In November 2014, the World health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and the World Food Programme, produced interim guidelines (iGL) on providing nutritional support to patients in Ebola treatment units (ETUs). They have been translated into French and issued by the Ministry of Health, UNICEF and WHO in adapted versions to be used in the current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This paper evaluates the use and usefulness of the 2014 iGL in the West Africa and current DRC Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreaks and identifies experiences and lessons learned from practitioners on the operational aspects of nutritional care and support in ETUs. Methods Key-informants (n=26), from 12 organizations (Non-Governmental Organizations, United Nations, Red Cross Red Crescent Movement) were interviewed who were actively engaged in the nutritional and/or clinical care of EVD patients. Results There was a consensus among key-informants that the 2014 iGL initially served a guiding purpose. However, the vast amount of learning from the 2014-2016 and current EVD outbreaks indicates that the interim guidelines need to be revised. Practitioners struggled to find operational solutions for nutritional care, and the challenges were plentiful, especially regarding 1) the different perceptions of the importance of nutritional care among ETU staff; 2) the difficulties around food preparation and distribution for EVD patients; 3) how to take into account the patients’ dietary preferences; 4) the nutritional care needed in relation to specific EVD symptoms; 5) who assumed roles in nutritional care in ETUs; 6) if and how feeding support was organized; 7) whether malnutrition needed to be addressed and how; and 8) whether the intake of specific nutrients could contribute to improved treatment outcomes. Information from the key-informants interviews resulted in numerous lessons learned and recommendations for nutritional support during current and future outbreaks. Conclusions This investigation underscored the importance of documenting experiences of practitioners on nutritional care in emerging infectious diseases for which limited scientific evidence exists and for which interim guidelines are produced to fill in knowledge gaps. It also emphasized the importance of nutritional care in ETUs during treatment.
Nov 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-19-3067
M. Czerkies LauraCorresponding author
Nestlé Nutrition, Arlington, VA
This study evaluated the impact of switching exclusively formula-fed infants with caregiver-perceived formula intolerance to a reduced lactose, partially hydrolyzed 100% whey-based formula (PHF-W) with Lactobacillus reuteri and 2-fucosyllactose. Infants identified as ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ fussy by caregivers were eligible for this single-arm, single-blind study. Subjects switched their current formula to study formula for three weeks. Gastrointestinal tolerance was assessed by the Infant Gastrointestinal Symptom Questionnaire (IGSQ) at baseline and end of the study. Caregivers ranked their infants’ fussiness (not at all, slightly, moderately, very, extremely) after the first three feedings of study formula and 24 hours after enrollment. A paired t-test was used to compare the change in IGSQ score, and a paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test were used to compare post-feeding fussiness scores to baseline. Fifty infants (mean±std age 28.9±14.5 days) were enrolled; 41 completed the study per protocol. Mean (±std) baseline IGSQ score was 34.9±10.0, dropping to 22.1±7.5 after three weeks (p < 0.001). 48/50 (96%) caregivers stated their infants’ fussiness improved after 24 hours, and 2 (4%) remained the same. 42/46 (91%) caregivers stated their infants’ fussiness improved after the first feeding, and 4 (9%) remained the same. Caregiver-ranked fussiness significantly improved after the first, second, and third feedings and after 24 hours as compared to baseline (p < 0.001 for all). IGSQ scores significantly improved after three weeks of feeding with PHF-W containing Lactobacillus reuteri and 2-fucosyllactose in infants with caregiver-perceived intolerance, and improvements in fussiness were noted as quickly as after the first feeding.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-19-3038
Roy SmrityCorresponding author
Medical officer, Pediatrics outdoor, Rangpur Medical College Hospital.
Background Persistent diarrhoea is a commonly observed phenomenon both in Bangladesh and all over the developing countries. It is the single most important cause of diarrhoea related deaths in the community, accounting for over half of them. If associated factors are properly identified & treated, it is possible to prevent most cases of persistent diarrhoea. Objective This study was undertaken to find out the possible risk factors associated with persistent diarrhoea in children below 5 years of age. Methods This was a prospective analytical case control study carried out in a tertiary care hospital, Dhaka. A total of 30 consecutive cases of persistent diarrhoea and 60 consecutive acute diarrhoea controls (matched for age and sex) under 5 comprised the study subjects in this study. Children beyond the age and whose parents didn’t give written consent were excluded from the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and a standered case definition of acute & persistent diarrhoeawere adopted. Data were later processed and analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science version 12) in the year 2012. Results were considered statistically significant when p value was <0.05. Results According to the study, 56.6% of cases and 63.3% of controls were in the ‘6 to 12 months’ age group and about two-third of the participants in both cases 20 (66.7%) and controls 39 (65.0%) were males.Strong association was found with ‘bottle feeding’ RR=2.2556; 95% CI: 1.259, ‘presence of blood/mucus’ RR=2.5038; 95% CI: 1.4129, ‘WAZ≤ 2)’ RR=2.8867; 95% CI: 1.7202 and ‘early complementary feeding [RR=4.67; 95% CI: 2.5017-8.7175 and OR=7.8858; 95% CI: 3.6791-16.9 Conclusion In the present studyfour factors showed some association with persistent diarrhoea, namely: ‘use of animal milk’; ‘antibiotic use during acute diarrhoea’; ‘history of diarrhoea in previous 3 months’ and ‘pre-lacteal feed’. Strong association was found with ‘bottle feeding practices’ ‘presence of blood &/or mucus in stool’, WAZ <-2 and ‘early complementary feeding
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-0105.jbfb-19-2752
K. Bai YeonCorresponding author
Associate Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
The proportion of mothers in the workforce has increased over the past 40 years. Examination of factors associated with a working/student mother’s milk expression is needed to provide effective lactation support. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of maternal assets in the relationships between the theory constructs, intention, and behavior of breast milk expression. Using a cross-sectional design framed under the theory of planned behavior, all female personnel associated with a higher education institute in northern New Jersey were invited to participate in the online survey, Milk Expression on Campus. Attitude toward breast milk expression, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, intention, and behavior of breast milk expression on campus as well as maternal assets such as income, education, living status, and campus role were measured. Maternal assets had no moderation role but showed a significant and meaningful mediation effect on the relationship between perceived behavioral control and the intention to express breast milk on campus, with effect size R2=3.59%, 95% CI (-.1061, -.0047). There was no mediation effect of the asset on the relationship between intention and the behavior of breast milk expression, 95% CI (-.0984, .0232). Future breastfeeding support and promotion may direct its attention to provide systematic social and clinical support to enhance working/student maternal assets, e.g. family education, access to lactation services, or peer-based support programs, thereby helping mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-0105.jbfb-19-2681
L. Blanco CynthiaCorresponding author
Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas.
This study compared the effect of container material type on macronutrient changes in human breast milk (HBM) during frozen storage. HBM was collected from breastfeeding mothers and baseline macronutrients were analyzed and recorded. The HBM was aliquoted into milk storage containers of five commonly used materials (low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), glass, stainless steel, and silicone). The samples were frozen in a standard freezer (-20°F) for 30, 60, and 180 days prior to thawing and retesting macronutrient values. In the 155 samples analyzed, macronutrient changes among different types of storage materials were insignificant at 30 and 60 days of frozen storage. When comparing macronutrients at baseline to 180 days, there was a significant decrease in protein value over time in LDPE containers as compared to silicone containers (p=0.001). Likewise, there was a significant decrease in total calories from baseline to 180 days in both PP and LDPE containers compared to silicone (p=0.046 and 0.013, respectively). While not significant for short-term storage, HBM has losses of macronutrients (protein) with long-term storage in LDPE and PP plastics. These differences could have major nutritional impact on growth, particularly to infants born prematurely.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-19-2617
K Wood NatsukoCorresponding author
Assistant Professor at Washington State University College of Nursing, Spokane, WA, USA.
Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a home-based educational skill building program to support exclusive breastfeeding for mothers in the early postpartum period. Specific aims were to: (1) evaluate the effectiveness of the study’s recruitment strategy, comparing the use of an intermediary with a direct approach, (2) examine intervention fidelity, (3) examine program adherence, and (4) assess the acceptability of the intervention to participants. Design and Sample A mixed methods within-group, three-occasion descriptive design, delivered to 14 dyads of breastfeeding mothers and their full-term singleton infants. Intervention The program was implemented during three, 60-90 minute educational training sessions in the home, delivered at 6, 13, and 27 days postpartum. Results Mothers who adhered to the intervention protocol correctly attributed their infant’s crying behavior to factors other than the adequacy of the mother’s milk supply. All participants were recruited through direct approach. The program was delivered as planned with high fidelity, a high retention rate, and with a high rate of acceptability. Conclusions A fully scripted, at-home, nurse-delivered educational skill building program can be delivered with efficiency to breastfeeding mothers with full-term singleton infants; intervention fidelity, retention, and acceptability were high.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-19-2586
E H RadwanCorresponding author
Zoology department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Egypt.
Melia azedarach extract were applied by feeding the adult female flies on diets mixed with the extracts at different doses. The concentrations of Melia azedarach utilized were 1.8, 2.4 and 3.6%. The gonotrophic cycles of length of 90, 753, 67.6 and 84, 72, 68 hours were obtained after feeding at age 24 hours with diet mixed with doses of 1.8, 2.4 and 3.6% fruit extract; respectively. 98 & 96 hours were the length of gonotrophic cycle in the control groups. The length of 86.7, 72.3, 57.3 and 89.3, 75, 61 hours were obtained after feeding adults at age 48 hours with diets mixed with different doses of fruit extract of the same plant 97.3 and 98.7 hours were the length of the control groups. Proportions of the egg hatching reached 69, 55.3, 49 and 72.9, 64.2, 52 in groups of eggs obtained from 24 hours adults feeding with diets mixed with doses of 1.8, 2.4 and 3.6% fruit extract; respectively. Also 68.7, 53.3,48 5 and 81 2, 70, 56.3 were the proportions of egg hatching obtained from groups at age 48 hours after feeding with diets mixed with the same doses. 85, 77.6, 62.2 and 92.6, 88.9, 84.9 were the proportions of the egg hatching obtained from groups feeding with diets mixed with doses of 1.8, 2.4 and 3.6% fruit extract of Melia azedarach; respectively. The pupae showed larval-pupal intermediates which failed to complete the pupal period and died after emerging from the third larval instar.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-18-2456
Mohamadreza AmiriCorresponding author
Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is now recognized not only for its importance in promoting bone health in children and adults, but also for its other health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as autoimmune diseases, common cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Ultraviolet radiation of the sun with wavelengths of 290-310 nm penetrates into the skin and converts 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3, which quickly transforms to vitamin D3. Vitamin D (D represents either D2 or D3) made in the skin or ingested through diet is biologically inert and requires two successive hydroxylations first in the liver on carbon 25 to form 25-hydroxyvitamin D 25(OH)D and then in the kidney for a hydroxylation on carbon 1 to form the biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) 121419. The concentration of the produced 25-hydroxy vitamin D in blood circulation is 1,000 times more than 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D 4, and it is regarded as a standard indicator of vitamin D status in humans 3. 25-hydroxy vitamin D half-life is about 2-3 weeks and it is regulated by calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) to some extent. 25-hydroxy vitamin D content also reflects the amount of vitamin D produced in the skin after exposure to sunlight or received through food intake 56. Guidelines for vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency defined by serum 25(OH)D concentrations have been published from many countries and regions all over the world 7891011. Vitamin D deficiency is a pandemic problem. According to global estimations, more than one billion people around the world suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Among Iranian population, the incidence of vitamin D deficiency varies from 2.5 to 98.5% based on geographic area 1213. Various factors may give rise to vitamin D deficiency, including skin pigments, low levels of vitamin D in diet (insufficient fish oil and egg yolk intake), malnutrition, genetic factors, exclusive breast feeding, vitamin D deficiency of mother during pregnancy, prematurity, chronic use of drugs (e.g., anticonvulsants, aluminum-containing anti-acids, rifampcin, isoniazid, antifungal drugs, antiviral drugs, and glucocorticoids), winter and obesity 113. Cultural habits, the need for full body coverage during outdoor activities and the lack of sunlight programs are the risk factors for low vitamin D levels in women 151617. Children enter foster care due to early childhood adverse experiences such as poor prenatal and infant health care, food insecurity, chronic stress, and the effects of abuse and neglect. As a result, they are at higher risk for poor physical, psychological, neuroendocrine and neurocognitive outcomes compared to others. Foster children are at risk for growth and nutritional deficiencies due to their poor nutritional environment prior to placement in foster care. Insufficient caloric intake results in growth deficiencies. Evidence showed that the risk of stunting and underweight is high in this population 18. The risk of developing hypovitaminosis D was significantly higher in children living in foster homes. One reason is that they are at higher risk of child abuse, emotional deprivation and physical neglect than children living with their families. Moreover, these children most likely do not spend much time outdoors and they lack adequate sun exposure. Another reason is that as children grow up in institutional care, they shift from a diet of vitamin D–fortified formula milk to cooked food, which may not be fortified with vitamin D 1. Iranian government has made some efforts to apply efficient interventions to reduce the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, and the country’s healthcare system should be managed through accurate planning. Yet, in this country, studies on vitamin D deficiency in children living in foster homes are very limited, and given that timely diagnosis and treatment of this deficiency is vital, this research is conducted in Ali Asghar foster home in Mashhad, Iran.
Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-18-2474
Emile MiégouéCorresponding author
Guinea pig diet is essentially based on the use of grasses associated with protein sources. Then, in to improve the herbivores nutrition, the evaluation of intake and In vivo digestibility of Pennisetum purpureum or Panicum maximum in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) was carried out in January 2017 at the University of Dschang research and experimental farm and animal production and nutrition laboratory. 20 adult animals of local breed on average weight 450 ± 50g and aged about 5 months were used. They were organized into two batches of 10 animals each (5 males and 5 females). The first batch received 250g of fresh matter of Pennisetum purpureum + 60g concentrate/animal/day, while the second received the same treatment with Panicum maximum as grasses. Leftover and animals were weighed every morning before food distributions, and drinking water containing vitamin C was served ad libitum. According to the results, the highest ingestion was obtained with Panicum maximum. However, the digestibility different nutrients was comparable between treatments; nevertheless, males fed on P. maximum digested crude cellulose (63.78%) better than males fed on P. purpureum (51.17%). With regard to the variation of the bacterial rate of the caecal flora, enterobacteria of animals fed P. maximum was high (11.20 CFU/ml) compared to those of the animals receiving P. purpureum (7.27 CFU/ml), although regardless of the treatment, the level of lactobacilli was higher than that of enterobacteria. In view of the results obtained, these grasses can be alternatively used in feeding guinea pigs.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-18-2167
Buckley PetraCorresponding author
Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2650, Australia.
A cohort of Pony Club horses was observed for 13 months with data collected from owner-kept diaries and monthly property visits. All horses studied had access to pasture for all or part of the day. Whilst paddock size was seldom limiting, pasture degradation was evident and observed pasture mass and composition varied greatly. Horses’ body weight indices and body condition scores also varied greatly, closely matching seasonal variations in pasture mass. Increments in bodyweight varied in a non-linear fashion with body condition score. Most horses experienced additional year-round hand-fed supplementation and half of the study horses recorded body condition scores greater than 3.5 out of 5. This suggests that the owners of Pony Club horses did not rely on pasture as the sole source of nutrition, even though, based on estimated energy demands, well-managed pasture can meet the energy requirements of Pony Club horses. Furthermore, the fact that owners appeared not to make horse feeding decisions based on body condition score resulting in obesity, raises health and welfare concerns in this cohort of horses. The inappropriate feeding of supplements observed during times of high pasture growth was a concern. Whilst the ideal pasture for Pony Club horses has not been described, it is likely to differ to those considered ideal for broodmares and other livestock because of these unique health risks associated with high levels of non-structural carbohydrate content in improved pasture species. This study highlights the need to educate owners about recognising unhealthy body conditions of horses and better managing pastures and pasture access to reduce the risk of obesity related disorders, whilst at the same time reducing pasture degradation and supplemental feed costs
Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-17-1607
PhadkeMCorresponding author
Senior Advisor, Govt;
Background Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is rampant in the children of hilly and inaccessible tribal region of Nandurbar, Maharashtra in India. It is estimated that nearly 5% of the children under five years have SAM. Objectives To assess the therapeutic efficacy of 3 types of nutrition protocols administered largely at home in SAM children from Nandurbar, Maharashtra. Methodology This study is a part of a larger three arm open label trial using 3 therapeutic feeds i.e. C-RUTF (Centrally produced ready to use therapeutic food), L-RUTF (locally prepared ready to use therapeutic food) and ARF (locally prepared amylase rich food) in children of SAM who attended the health facility and completed the treatment protocols for 8 weeks (All ‘per protocol patients’) and were between 1 to 3 years of age. The larger study included children aged 6 months to 59 months who were given same therapeutic feeding protocol. Findings A total of 450 SAM babies between 12-36 months. attended the outpatient therapeutic program during the period of July 2014 to December 2015 and completed the given protocol of therapeutic feeding program. 242(53.7%) were males and 208(46.2%) females. Out of these, 150 received C-RUTF, 150 received L-RUTF and 150 received ARF. Out of C-RUTF group 83(55.3%) recovered, in L-RUTF 70(46.7%) recovered and from ARF group 69(46.0%) recovered. The difference was statistically significant.(p=0.03) Total recovery rate was 49.3% in comparison to another under publication study by our group on 3418 children aged 6 months to 59 months, where recovery was 36.8%. Average weight gain per day was 3.54 ± 2.36 g/kg/day, 2.61 ± 2.12 g/kg/day, 2.60 ± 1.50 g/kg/day in the 3 arms respectively. Conclusion This study proves that domiciliary treatment with 3 types of therapeutic feeds gives recovery rate of 49.3%, there by meaning that SAM Children without complications can be treated at home with visit to health facility once a week. Of all the therapeutic feeding protocols C-RUTF had best recovery rates (55.3%) compared to others, the difference being statistically significant. Average weight gain per kg per day inC-RUTF group was 35.8 % higher than the other 2 groups.
Apr 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-17-1424
Baumann ChristophCorresponding author
University of Wuerzburg, Medical Faculty, Josef-Schneider-Straße 2, Würzburg, Germany
Objective: To assess the effect of different treatment approaches on the course of anorexia nervosa (AN) over time. Methods: The subjects were 27 hospitalized AN patients. In our retrospective analysis we compared weight gain in two groups. While one group was treated with a standard oral refeeding protocol (historical control) through January 2013 (N=16), the second group (highly standardized refeeding protocol) received a high energy liquid nutrition and nutritional supplements including omega-3 fatty acids (N=11). Results: On admission, the two groups were comparable in terms of height, weight, age and heart rate. At the end of our monitoring time frame of 25 days, weight gain was 121.4% higher in the highly standardized refeeding protocol group than in the historical control group (66.5 ±52.4 vs 147.3 ±55.7 grams/day; t-Test p=0.004; CI95%: 29.3-132.2). A carbohydrate rich diet clearly improved weight gain if high energy liquid nutrition was replaced by the diet according the patient’s own wishes. About 45% of our patients stated they were vegetarians at admission. However, we could not identify a vegetarian diet as a statistically significant negative prognostic factor for weight gain. Conclusion: The highly standardized refeeding protocol seems to be helpful in malnourished AN patients to improve weight gain without enhancing the risk of a refeeding syndrome. However, further studies with greater number of patients are needed to confirm the effectiveness of our standardized treatment protocol.
Jan 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-16-1408
Bukusuba JohnCorresponding author
School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-engineering, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
Despite the agreed global and national stunting reduction targets, Uganda has made very little progress. Understanding context-specific risk factors for stunted growth is therefore pertinent to designing programs to address the problem. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 32 randomly selected villages in Buhweju district, Southwest Uganda. Data entry, cleaning and analysis were carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. A regression analysis was conducted to examine the associations between potential risk factors and stunted growth. The survey covered 256 households and anthropometric measurements were taken for 221 children aged 6–59 months. The majority of the households (66%) in the district were food insecure and had a low socioeconomic status (84%). The prevalence of stunting in Buhweju district was 51%, which is significantly higher than the regional and national averages. Only 28% of the children were exclusively breastfed in the first 6 months of life, and only 10% of them received the minimum acceptable diet (MAD). The findings of this study demonstrate that reductions in stunted growth at national or regional levels has not necessarily translated into similar trends in rural areas of Uganda. The notable contributors to stunting in these areas include morbidity, sub-optimal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices, low consumption of animal-source foods, food insecurity, lack of access to high-quality drinking water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities and poverty. Increased investment in both nutrition specific and sensitive interventions is therefore crucial to address these risk factors.
Jan 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-8572.joa-16-1364
Suat BiliciCorresponding author
Istanbul Training and Research Hospital, Otorhinolaryngology Department
Objectives The aim of this study was to compare the functional outcomes (including swallowing, respiration and phonation) of supraglottic horizontal laryngectomy (SGHL) and supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL). Methods The clinical and pathological data were evaluated for 36 previously untreated patients who were diagnosed with laryngeal carcinoma and underwent SGHL or SCPL at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Istanbul Training and Research Hospital from 2010 to 2016. Removal of the nasogastric tube, decannulation and hospitalisation times were recorded in both groups and postoperative complications were noted. Results The SGHL group contained 15 patients and the SCPL group contained 21 patients (14 cases of cricohyoidoepiglottopexy (CHEP) and 7 cases of cricohyoidopexy (CHP)). The mean age of the subjects was 57.4 years in the SGHL group, and 59.7 in the SCPL group. Patients in the SGHL group were decannulated after 65.2 days, whereas the average decannulation time was 72.6 days in the SCPL group. This difference in decannulation time between the groups was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The mean hospitalisation time was 23 days, with no statistically significant difference between the groups (>0.05). The nasogastric tube was removed from the patients after 37.9 days in the SGHL group and after 35.8 days in the SCPL group. No statistically significant difference was determined in the time to start feeding between the groups (p>0.05). Surgical wound infection, the occurrence of pharyngo-cutaneous fistulas and rupture of the pexy sutures were complications. Conclusion Functional outcomes of SCPL were similar to those of patients who underwent SGHL. The preservation of the hyoid bone is the most important consideration for preserving the swallowing function.
Jun 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-14-591
Negri RossellaCorresponding author
Department of Translational Medicine, Pediatrics, European Laboratory for Food Induced Diseases, University of Naples Federico II, Italy.
Objectives Taste sensitivity is an important determinant of food choice and differs between children and adults. This difference is probably due to several factors that constitute an individual’s phenotype. The aim of this study was to explore taste perception in relation to the TAS2R38 and CAVI (gustin) genotypes in age classes from infancy to adulthood in a Mediterranean population. Methods In this cross-sectional study we evaluated the TAS2R38 and gustin genotypes and administered a standardized PROP taste test in 705 individuals (435 adults, 270 children); the sample included 224 mother-child dyads. We also explored the acceptance and consumption of bitter and non-bitter vegetables. Results Sensitivity to bitterness was strongly related to the TAS2R38 haplotype, and we observed an intriguing relationship with age. In fact, children were more sensitive than adults with the same TAS2R38 haplotype also within mother-child dyads. The mother-child tasting differences decreased with age and became minimal when children reached adolescence. Variations in the gustin gene did not contribute significantly to the overall taste phenotype, but helped to differentiate among non-tasters. Conclusions The genetic profile of the bitter-taste receptor TAS2R38 explains most of the variance in bitter taste perception, but the related phenotype is also strongly influenced by age, also in mother-child dyads that share the same genotype. This finding is likely to have a significant impact on the complex feeding relationship between mother and child.
May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-0105.jbfb-14-547
Di Luigi GianlucaCorresponding author
University of L’Aquila; Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences. Gynecology & Obstetrics. Ospedale Civile “San Salvatore”. L’Aquila, Italy.
Background: Scientific research is constantly expanding our knowledge of nutritional needs in pregnancy and lactation. In June 2014 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued draft-revised advice encouraging pregnant women, those who might become pregnant, breastfeeding mothers and young children to eat more fish, a total of least 8 ounces per week and to eat a variety of fish lower in mercury in particular anchovies, butterfish, catfish, clam, haddock (Atlantic), herring, mullet, oyster, perch (ocean), sardine, shad, trout (freshwater). However, the presence of radionuclides released from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Pacific biota has aroused worldwide attention and concern. Objective and Methods: Evaluating all the scientific literature available after the Fukushima nuclear disaster, the aim of this review is to demonstrate the safety of seafood products and the use of omega-3 supplements potentially derived from contaminated radioactive fish. Results and Conclusions: There are no reasons to fear the amount of radiation in Japanese fish. The dose received from seafood consumption can be estimated to result in two additional fatal cancer cases per 10,000,000 similarly exposed people. The safest way to get omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy is by taking a high-quality fish oil supplement, approved by a governing body that provides proof of quality such as the Council for Responsible Nutrition, the European Pharmocopeia Standard or the Norwegian Medicinal Standard and by the Food and Drug Administration or the Environmental Protection Agency 12. Pregnant and breastfeeding women do not need to cut fish out of their diet completely, and it may be safely eaten up to three times per week safely 3.