Search results for “diet

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100 articles

Factors Influencing Dietary Diversity and Nutritional Status Among Adolescent Pregnant Women in South-Eastern Tanzania: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Dec 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-5352

Introduction Adolescent pregnancy has become a global health concern in recent years, with maintaining dietary diversity being essential to ensure the health of both the mother and fetus. This study aimed to understand the dietary diversity and nutritional status among pregnant adolescents attending antenatal clinic and identify the factors influencing these outcomes. Methodology A hospital based cross-sectional study was done at St Francis Regional Referral Hospital at Ifakara, Tanzania. A total of 131 adolescent pregnant women consented to participate. Data was obtained using questionnaire and 24-hour dietary recall. Results The study revealed that 93.1% (n=122) of adolescent pregnant women met the minimum dietary diversity score based on 24-hour recall period. Similar proportions were observed for age group but vary significantly with the number of children born (p< 0.001), marital status (p = 0.032) and education level (p< 0.001). Additionally, 93.9% (n=123) of adolescent pregnant women had a normal Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) and 6.1% (n=8) were undernourished. Similar proportions were observed across age, number of children born, marital status, education status, and occupation. Conclusion Most adolescent pregnant women in this study achieved adequate dietary diversity. However, socio-demographic factors such as age, marital status, and education, as well as challenges like illness and loss of appetite, influenced their dietary diversity and overall nutritional status. Future research should adopt a community-based longitudinal approach to better understand these factors and provide a more comprehensive understanding on the dietary patterns of adolescent pregnant women.

Total Daily Energy Expenditure is Overestimated by Dietary References Intake Equations Compared with Doubly Labeled Water in A Sample of Brazilian Adolescents

Aug 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-5155

Objective This report aimed to compare the total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) of adolescents measured by doubly labeled water (DLW) with the 2005 and 2023 dietary reference intake (DRI) equations proposed by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) in a sample of Brazilian adolescents. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional and observational study with a convenience sample of 15 obese and eutrophic adolescents, aged between 11 and 14 years, from public schools and the obesity outpatient clinic of the Clinics Hospital of the Ribeirão Preto Medical School – University of São Paulo (HC FMRP-USP) in Brazil. Were obtained stature and weight by conventional methods and used to calculate the body mass index (BMI) to determine the nutritional status. Fat-free mass (FFM) was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Energy expenditure was determined by DLW and estimated by the 2005 and 2023 DRI equations. The level of physical activity was measured with the ActivPAL™ accelerometer to classify adolescents within the equations. Results: Forty-seven percent of the sample were eutrophic and 53% were obese. The adolescents were classified as somewhat active according to the average number of daily steps. The DLW-derived TDEE and the TDEE derived from the 2005 and the 2023 predictive equations are presented as means, standard deviations, and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The 2005 and 2023 DRI equations produced significantly higher values than the DLW-determined TDEE (56.2% and 57.2%, respectively). Conclusion: Additional studies with Brazilian adolescents should be conducted to propose more accurate and specific predictive TDEE equations.

Veterinary Healthcare Open Access

The Dietary Cation Anion Balance Exacerbates the Effects of Inorganic Phosphates on Parameters of Phosphate Metabolism in Cats

Jul 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-24-5146

Dietary intake of inorganic phosphates is linked to various adverse health effects. Excessive intake of highly soluble inorganic phosphates, which are used as feed and food additives, have been found to impair parameters of kidney health. As chronic kidney disease represents one of the most frequently occurring terminal diseases especially in cats, extensive knowledge regarding the safety of these additives is important. Other minerals, such as calcium, can modulate their effects on the phosphate homeostasis and kidney health. Therefore, it is crucial to examine further factors, such as the dietary cation-anion balance (CAB), resulting from the concentrations of major minerals in a diet. In this study, eleven healthy cats were fed a control diet and two diets with added sodium monophosphate (NaH2PO4) with either a low (-10 mmol/kg dry matter) or high (+450 mmol/kg dry matter) CAB for 28 days each. The serum concentrations of phosphate and parameters of phosphate homeostasis were determined in the fasting and postprandial blood samples next to the apparent digestibility and retention of phosphate and calcium. The diet with positive CAB led to an increase of serum phosphate and the phosphatonin FGF23, apparently digested phosphate, and phosphate retention. This is further proof that source and amount of phosphates in a diet are not the only determinants of the extent of potential adverse health effects. Until the interactions between inorganic phosphates and other dietary compounds are fully understood, recommendations regarding the safe use of phosphate containing additives in pet food are precarious.

Comparative Study On ‘Dietary Education’ In Japan And Korea: From The Latest Nutritional Knowledge Perspective

Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-24-5036

According to the Japan’s National Health and Nutrition Survey, trends in the intake of vegetables and fruits (1999-2018), which are considered effective in preventing lifestyle-related diseases, are far below the target value; In the under-50 age group, less than 30% achieved the target vegetable intake of 350g, and less than 15% achieved the target fruit intake of 200g 53. Against such background, it has become a challenge to nurture children's ‘self-management ability’ that leads to spontaneous and healthy dietary habits 16. Until now, almost all research on ‘Dietary education’ has been conducted in the field of nutrition, focusing on accumulating nutritional knowledge by explaining each nutritional component and its function. However, it is difficult to nurture spontaneous and healthy dietary habits simply through repeated nutrition-based education. It can be said that the pedagogical approach of this paper has made it possible to pursue from a broader perspective that influences food choices. Research on ‘nutrition transition’ points out “worldwide obesity dynamics and their determinants” based on “a shift in the broader patterns of dietary habits (Western-style diet) and corresponding nutrition-related diseases” 42. Nutrition transition research 5040 has a broad and holistic perspective on food and health, making it easy to understand nutrition. The purpose of this paper is to pursue how to nurture the ‘self-management ability’ for spontaneous and healthy dietary habits, based on these latest nutritional knowledges. Because nutrition transition is a global phenomenon, the author choses to use broader methods of international comparative research. Comparisons lead to discoveries and value creation. This can be said to have the greatest significance in comparative research.

Colorectal Cancer in Africa: Causes, Dietary Intervention, and Lifestyle Change

Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-21-3908

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a menace in the global public health system. According to GLOBOCAN reports, colorectal cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in the world with more than 1.9 million cases and 935,000 deaths in 2020 alone. Diet plays a key role in exposing humans to environmental carcinogens and anti-carcinogens, consequently mitigating or aiding in the development of various cancers. CRC is most prevalent in western countries with a high intake of saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and processed meat. CRC was an extremely rare disease in Africa some decades ago, but the situation is fast changing. The traditional African diet consists of leafy, roots and cruciferous vegetables, fruits, roots, tubers and plantains, legumes, whole grains, and spices, all of which have been shown to possess protective effects against CRC. However, the effect of urbanization has contributed to the shift of dietary choices among the African population to consuming more ultra-processed foods with high levels of unhealthy components that have originated from colorectal cancer prevalent regions. This review evaluates the current nutritional challenges of the African diet to colorectal cancer and the potential roles of the traditional African diets and lifestyle modification in the prevention and management of colorectal cancer.

Human Health Research Open Access

An Investigation on Dietetics and Nutritional Interests using Quantitative Analysis in the Existing Prevalent Conditions of COVID-19

Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-21-3864

This paper wishes to address the main concerns of food patterns and food consumption during the epidemic with quantitative analysis from various regions of Tamil Nadu. It was noted that it is more important than natural foods. The current epidemic had a profound effect on the humankind, recognizing the importance of staying healthy is the crucial aspect. In time, further research was conducted on the diet of the Indian subcontinent. Everyone should know about the importance of health and how nutrition contributes to the health and equality of people around the world. The main purpose of this study was to identify the importance of good nutrition and disease prevention.

Evaluation of Cardiac Performance after Treatment with the Biofield Energy Treated Proprietary Test Formulation on L-NAME and High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiovascular Disorders in Sprague Dawley Rats

Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-21-3848

Study was aimed to evaluate effect of Biofield Treated Proprietary Formulation and Biofield Treatment per se on cardiac performance on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats. Nine groups were assigned, in which four were preventive maintenance groups. The constituents of test formulation were divided into two parts; one section was defined as the untreated test formulation, while the other portion of the test formulation and three groups of animals received Biofield Energy Healing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 13.39%, 14.65%, 17.74%, 14.36%, and 14.69% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to disease control (G2) group. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP)was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 25.95%, 24.41%, 30.79%, 24.67%, and 25.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Heart rate (HR) was significantly (p≤0.05) reduced by 6.58%, 8.06%, and 6.99% in G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total leucocyte count (TLC) count was increased by 12.8% and 17.45% in G5 and G8 groups, respectively than G2 group. Neutrophils and lymphocytes were increased by 60.11% (G8) and 11.49% (G5), respectively than G2. Eosinophils were reduced by 11.11%, 20%, and 15% in G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total cholesterol was significantly decreased by 22.64% (p≤0.05), 15.78%, 25.56% (p≤0.05), 22.56%, and 34.27% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Triglyceride was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 34.55%, 43.29%, 55.23%, 28.57%, and 37.28% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. VLDL level was also significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 80.81%, 83.61%, 86.82%, 79.19%, and 81.63% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 group, respectively; while LDL was reduced by 20.32% (G9) group than G2. Atherogenic index (AI) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 78.36%, 83.21%, 84.68%, 74.06%, and 72.98% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. The level of uric acid (UA) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 57.51%, 52.36%, 45.49%, 43.78%, and 40.77% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups respectively, as compared with the G2 group. Serum glutamate pyruvate transaminases (SGPT) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 45.96%, 48.01%, 37.19%, 37.69%, and 42.93% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) level was significantly reduced by 10.19%, 21.97% (p≤0.01), 10.47%, and 16.94% in the G5, G6, G7, and G9 groups, than G2. Overall, the data suggested significance improvement of heart-related hematology, hepatic, and lipid parameters with respect to various pathological conditions that might be beneficial various types of cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the results showed the significant slowdown the cardiovascular disease progression and its complications/symptoms in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.

Antioxidant Activity Open Access

Evaluation of Antioxidative Potential of the Biofield Energy Treated Proprietary Test Formulation on L-NAME and High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiovascular Disorders in Sprague Dawley Rats

Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-21-3864

The aim of this experiment was to assess the antioxidative potential of the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed Proprietary Test Formulation and Biofield Energy Treatment/Blessing per se to the animals on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats using various functional biomarkers. A test formulation was formulated including minerals (magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium, selenium, and iron), vitamins (ascorbic acid, pyridoxine HCl, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3), cannabidiol (CBD) isolate, Panax ginseng extract, and β-carotene. The test formulation’s constituents were divided into two parts; one part was denoted as the untreated, while the other part and three group of animals received Biofield Energy Healing/Blessing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned spiritual leader, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was elevated significantly by 198.46%, 208.73%, 191.73%, 211.75%, and 198.82% in the G5 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation), G6 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15), G7 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), G8 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se plus the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), and G9 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se animals plus the untreated test formulation) groups, respectively than disease control group (G2). Moreover, the level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly increased by 61.94%, 118.49%, 82.96%, 141.89%, and 262.02% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. Lipid peroxidase (LPO) was decreased by 14.21%, 30.98%, 38.66%, and 32.67% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Additionally, the level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) was decreased by 28.46%, 10.87%, 12.41%, and 13.35% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Further, the level of oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL) was reduced by 65.38%, 65.11%, 71.53%, 79.26%, and 66.57% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Besides, in heart tissues, the level of catalase (CAT) was significantly increased by 68.20%, 63.69%, 126.03%, 124.54%, and 112.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Moreover, in kidney tissues, the level of CAT was significantly increased by 22.48%, 23.43%, and 10.95% in the G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Overall, the data suggested a significant antioxidant activity by increasing the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, and reducing the levels of LPO, MPO, and oxidized-LDL in various tissue fluids and that might be beneficial for cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the study outcomes showed the significant slowdown the oxidative stress-related cardiovascular disease progression and its complications in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.

Antioxidant Activity Open Access

Evaluation of Antioxidative Potential of the Biofield Energy Treated Proprietary Test Formulation on L-NAME and High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiovascular Disorders in Sprague Dawley Rats

Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-21-3846

The aim of this experiment was to assess the antioxidative potential of the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed Proprietary Test Formulation and Biofield Energy Treatment/Blessing per se to the animals on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats using various functional biomarkers. A test formulation was formulated including minerals (magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium, selenium, and iron), vitamins (ascorbic acid, pyridoxine HCl, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3), cannabidiol (CBD) isolate, Panax ginseng extract, and β-carotene. The test formulation’s constituents were divided into two parts; one part was denoted as the untreated, while the other part and three group of animals received Biofield Energy Healing/Blessing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned spiritual leader, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was elevated significantly by 198.46%, 208.73%, 191.73%, 211.75%, and 198.82% in the G5 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation), G6 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15), G7 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), G8 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se plus the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15), and G9 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se animals plus the untreated test formulation) groups, respectively than disease control group (G2). Moreover, the level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly increased by 61.94%, 118.49%, 82.96%, 141.89%, and 262.02% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. Lipid peroxidase (LPO) was decreased by 14.21%, 30.98%, 38.66%, and 32.67% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Additionally, the level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) was decreased by 28.46%, 10.87%, 12.41%, and 13.35% in the G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Further, the level of oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL) was reduced by 65.38%, 65.11%, 71.53%, 79.26%, and 66.57% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Besides, in heart tissues, the level of catalase (CAT) was significantly increased by 68.20%, 63.69%, 126.03%, 124.54%, and 112.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2 group. Moreover, in kidney tissues, the level of CAT was significantly increased by 22.48%, 23.43%, and 10.95% in the G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Overall, the data suggested a significant antioxidant activity by increasing the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, and reducing the levels of LPO, MPO, and oxidized-LDL in various tissue fluids and that might be beneficial for cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the study outcomes showed the significant slowdown the oxidative stress-related cardiovascular disease progression and its complications in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.

Nephrology Advances Open Access

Evaluation of Renal and Cardioprotective Potential of the Biofield Energy Treated Proprietary Test Formulation on L-NAME and High Fat Diet-Induced Cardiovascular Disorders in Sprague Dawley Rats

Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4488.jna-21-3847

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed Proprietary Test Formulation and Biofield Energy Treatment/Blessing per se on kidney biomarkers on L-NAME and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats. In this experiment, the functional kidney biomarkers such as epinephrine/adrenaline, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), angiotensin-II, C-reactive protein (CRP), and renin were measured using ELISA assay. A test formulation was formulated including minerals (magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium, selenium, and iron), vitamins (vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin B9, and vitamin D3), cannabidiol (CBD) isolate, Panax ginseng extract, and β-carotene. The components of the test item were divided into two; one section was defined as the untreated test formulation, while the other part and three group of animals received Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi’s Biofield Energy healing/Blessing remotely for about 3 minutes. The results showed that the level of adrenaline was reduced by 31.62%, 19.58%, 34.32%, 37.07%, and 29.87% in the G5 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation), G6 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15), G7 (L-NAME + HFD + the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day-15), and G8 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se plus the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day-15), and G9 (L-NAME + HFD + Biofield Energy Treatment per se animals plus the untreated test formulation) groups, respectively as compared to the disease control group (G2). Moreover, the level of iNOS was reduced by 56.76%, 49.51%, 61.79%, 57.63%, and 62.44% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively, as compared to the disease control group (G2). Additionally, the level of angiotensin-II was decreased by 41.09%, 34.92%, 60.65%, 53.28%, and 60.09% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively, as compared to the G2 group. The level of CRP was decreased by 47.21%, 38.89%, 59.81%, 55.52%, and 64.02% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. Besides, the level of renin was decreased by 20.27%, 20.13%, 12.99%, and 25.73% in the G5, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to the G2 group. Overall, the data suggested significance improvement of vital functional kidney biomarkers of the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed test formulation and Biofield Energy Treatment per se along with preventive measure on the animal with respect to various pathological conditions that might be beneficial various types of cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the results showed the significant slowdown the inflammation-related cardiovascular disease progression and its complications/symptoms in the preventive Biofield Energy Treatment group per se and/or Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed Test formulation groups (viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9).

Antioxidant Activity Open Access

Antioxidant Activity of Biofield Treated Proprietary Test Formulation Supplemented with Vitamins and Minerals in Vitamin D3 Deficiency Diet (VDD) Induced Sprague Dawley Rats

Mar 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-21-3747

A proprietary formulation was designed that consisted minerals (zinc, magnesium, iron, calcium, selenium, and copper), vitamins (pyridoxine HCl, cyanocobalamin, ascorbic acid, and cholecalciferol), Panax ginseng extract, and cannabidiol isolate. The study was aimed to assess the potential of the novel test formulation (blessed) and per se to the animals with the Trivedi Effect® in male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, fed with vitamin D3 deficiency diet (VDD). The test formulation consisted above mentioned ingredients was divided into two parts. One part was left aside as the untreated test formulation without any Biofield Treatment, while the other part was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated sample, which received the Biofield Treatment by renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The level of lipid peroxidation end product malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues was significantly reduced by 34.59%, 34.91%, and 65.81% (p≤0.001) in test formulation treated with Biofield Energy (G5), Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15 (G7), Biofield Treatment per se with Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15 (G8) groups, respectively as compared to the disease control group (G2). Moreover, level of catalase enzyme in liver tissues was also increased by 8.64% in the G7 group as compared to the G2 group. Besides, in brain homogenate the level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly increased by 433.94%, 266.97%, 133.94%, 467.89%, and 489.86% in the G5, Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15 (G6), G7, G8, and Biofield Treatment per se animals plus untreated test formulation (G9) groups, respectively than G2. Antioxidant enzyme like superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly (p≤0.001) increased by 14.16% in the G9 group as compared to the G2 group. Allover, results signified that the Biofield Treated test formulation significantly increased antioxidative parameters, could be able to give support against oxidative stress induced by free radical and to maintain a good human health.

Evaluation of Vitamin D3 metabolite (25-OH Vit D3), Neurotransmitter (ACh), and the Expression of Proinflammatory Cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) in Tissue Homogenate after Administration of Biofield Energy Healing-based Novel Proprietary Test Formulation and Biofield Treatment per se to the Animals in Vitamin D3 Deficiency Diet (VDD)-induced Sprague Dawley Rats

Mar 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-21-3755

A novel proprietary test formulation was designed which included minerals, vitamins, β-carotene, cannabidiol isolate,and Panax ginseng extract. This present study was evaluated the impact of the Trivedi Effect® on novel proprietary test formulation in male Sprague Dawley rats, fed with vitamin D3 deficiency diet (VDD). The novel test formulation was divided into two parts; one part was defined as untreated test formulation, while the other part was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated sample, which received the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment by renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The level of 25-OH Vit. D3 was measured in brain homogenate, which was found to be increased by 20.13%, 24.12%, 45.86%, 14.79%, and 29.96% in the G5 group treated with Biofield Treated test formulation, Biofield Energy Treatment per se to the animals (G6), 15 days pre-treatment of Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (G7), Biofield Energy Treatment per se plus Biofield Energy Treated test formulation from day -15 (G8), and untreated test formulation to the Biofield Energy Treated animals (G9) groups respectively, as compared with the disease control (G2) group. Brain acetylcholine (ACh) level was increased by 61.33% in the G7 group as compared with the untreated test formulation (G4) group. The expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) was significantly reduced by 43.44% (p≤0.01), 30.93%, 21.42%, 45.99% (p≤0.01), and 60.85% (p≤0.01), respectively as compared with the G4. Lung pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) level was significantly reduced in the G5, G6, G7, and G8 by 24.86%, 32.55% (p≤0.01), 30.12% (p≤0.01), and 42.69% (p≤0.01), respectively, as compared with the G4 group. Altogether, the Biofield Treated test formulation and/or per se treatment to the animals significantly improved the levels of active form of vitamin D3 metabolite (25-OH Vit D3) and neurotransmitter (ACh); consequently significantly lowered the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α). Therefore, the energized test formulation or per se treatment could be effectively useful against neuronal damage and inflammation for the management of brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementias, brain cancer, epilepsy and other seizure disorders, mental disorders, and Parkinson’s. Thus, the results showed a significant slowdown of disease progression and all other disease-related complications/symptoms in the preventive Biofield Energy Treatment group per se and the Biofield Energy Treated Test formulation groups (viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9) as compared to the disease control group.

Survival Rate and Growth Performances on Pre-Grossing of the African Cyprinidae LabeobarbusBatesii (Boulenger, 1903) According to the Level of Dietary Protein

Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-20-3605

In order to contribute to the domestication of Labeobabusbatesii, the survival and growth performances in pre-grossing according to the dietary protein level were studied between January and April 2020. A total of 400 fry (0.8 ± 0.02g), divided into four batches and distributed randomly in 8 happas (50 ind / m2), respectively received in duplicate the food at 25, 30, 35 or 40% crude protein (R25%, R30%, R35% and R40%). The results show that: survival rate and growth performances were significantly influenced (p≤0.05) by the level of dietary protein except for lengths (total, standard and length gain) whose highest values ​​were obtained with the diet at 35% crude protein, the highest significant values ​​of the other growth characteristics were obtained in the batch fed at 25% crude protein while the lowest were recorded on individuals of batches fed at 40% crude protein. Regardless of the level of food protein, the post-larvae presented an allometric minorant growth. So, 25% of dietary protein is therefore recommended for pre-grossing of this species.

Adopting High Fat Diets for Fat Loss and Improving Brain Health.

Oct 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3581

With an increased intake of processed carbohydrates and refined sugars, the obesity rate has shot up in the past decade giving rise to mental and physical health problems. These individuals are also the most vulnerable to a number of other diseases including the current pandemic of Covid-19. This paper aims to address the knowledge gap that is required to promote a healthy lifestyle for mental and physical wellbeing. The paper also analyses a number of different studies conducted and helps in understanding obesity as a strong risk factor to various disorders. Despite constant recommendations from healthcare organisations to address the importance of weight regulation, the process to do so often remains uncertain to the general population. The paper analyses the effects of the ketogenic diet for fat loss as well as treating mental illnesses and aims to address the influence of high carbohydrate diets on mental illnesses.

Dietary Intake Patterns of Alcoholics; A Case Study of Selected Rehabilitation Centers in Kenya

Oct 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3377

Introduction Sub-optimal dietary intake patterns have a major detrimental impact on the nutritional status of an alcoholic. These patterns exacerbate the status of alcoholism and the functioning of the alcoholic’s body. Objective This study aimed to examine alcoholic’s dietary intake patterns. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 204 alcoholics undergoing alcohol rehabilitation in selected rehabilitation centers. A 24 hour food recall and food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intake of the respondents. Factor analysis of food items and groups, cluster analysis of dietary intake patterns, and multivariate regressions were carried out. Results Three dietary intake patterns were identified among alcoholics namely a low calorie intake (described mainly by consumption of plant-based foods); a composite intake (distinguished by adequate consumption of both plant-based and animal-based foods) and a high calorie intake (characterized by high consumption of animal-based foods). Conclusion Optimal dietary intake promotion programs are needed to address the dietary intakes of recuperating alcoholics under rehabilitation to help prevent malnutrition and other associated comorbidities.

Reducing COVID-19 Risk through Dietary Supplementation of Plant Mannose Binding Lectins

Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3492

Mannose binding lectins (MBL), a key molecule in our innate immune response, contributes to host defense against coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV. This article reviews the role of MBL in the innate immune response against coronavirus infections, highlights evidence of MBL’s significance, and suggests dietary MBL supplementation through increased consumption of fruits and vegetables as an accessible and viable approach to minimizing COVID-19 infection risk. Increasing consumption of plant lectins (e.g., eating fruits and vegetables) may reduce COVID-19 risks.

Growth Performance of Heteroclarias Juveniles Fed Graded Levels of Autoclaved Castor Seed (Ricinus communis L.) Cake Based Diets

Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-20-3312

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.

Pilot Study: Impact of a Gluten-Free Diet on Symptoms and Severity of Fibromyalgia

Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3201

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a condition of chronic and widespread pain, with several associated symptoms. Previous studies suggested that gluten could influence the severity and frequency of FM symptoms. This work aimed to assess the impact of a gluten-free diet (GFD) in the symptoms and severity of this disease. Fourteen patients with previous FM diagnosis were kept on a gluten-free diet for eight weeks (Phase 1). After that, they were held on the gluten-free diet and received capsules of isolated rice protein (placebo) for seven days, followed by capsules containing 8.4g/day vital gluten for additional seven days (Phase 2). Questionnaires evaluating the number and severity of FM symptoms, the impact of FM on daily routine as well as inflammatory blood markers were assessed in each phase. Results showed that after eight weeks of GFD, we observed a reduction in the impact of FM on daily routine and number of symptoms and sensitive points. However, a seven days challenge with 8.4g of gluten did not worsen these symptoms or the inflammatory markers compared with the placebo challenge. We concluded that the gluten-free diet was associated with the attenuation of main symptoms and improvement of life quality in FM patients. Nonetheless, gluten challenge had no impact on those parameters, suggesting that gluten is not the major dietary component responsible for these improvements. Further studies are needed to elucidate the relationship between gluten intake and fibromyalgia.  

Food Pyramid - The Principles of a Balanced Diet

Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3199

The need to understand the relation of man to food, determines the existence of appropriate behavior as well as an attitude in accordance with the modalities that determine human development and evolution, under this structural aspect. A proper diet is the one that provides the amount of nutrients corresponding to personal needs. The food pyramid is the scheme we refer to most in order to know the proportions of foods recommended for consumption. It is a pyramid divided into "layers", each corresponding to a category of foods and the respective quantity.

Implementation of an Elemental Diet in Five Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder Presenting with Gastrointestinal Disease: A Brief Report

Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3181

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by impaired communication and social interaction. Children with ASD are frequently diagnosed with gastrointestinal (GI) issues, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroesophageal reflux, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation, although the association between ASD and GI conditions is unclear. Underlying nutritional deficiencies are more common in children with ASD, and increase the risk of them developing medical conditions secondary to the behavioral diagnosis. This objective of this study was to examine the use of an elemental diet (ED) in the treatment of gastrointestinal disease in 5 children with ASD ages 2-21 years of age. In the study participants, the ED was well-tolerated with improvements in anthropometric measures, nutritional markers, and/or GI functioning reported after 12 weeks of intervention. Further research to advance the development of specific evidence-based guidelines in the management and treatment of gastrointestinal concerns in the ASD population is warranted.

Effect of a High Fat and High Protein Diet on Exercise-Induced Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy in Rats

Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-3011

The skeletal muscle mass varies by race. Dietary habits over generations are a factor that influences the skeletal muscle mass, as well as genetic factors. Therefore, we investigated the effects of diets with different macronutrient contents on exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy in rats. Male 4-week-old Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: a normal-diet (N), high-protein diet (HP) and high-fat diet (HF) group. The food intake was manipulated to gain comparable body weight across the three groups. All rats were performed a climbing exercise training for 8 weeks. The final body weight and weight of the liver, kidneys and adipose tissues did not significantly differ among the groups. The flexor hallucis longus was significantly higher in the HF group than in the HP group. The total lipid content in the muscle was significantly higher in the HF group than in the N group, while it did not differ significantly between the HF and HP groups. There were no marked differences in the water or protein content in the muscle among the groups. The plasma amino acid concentration was significantly or tended to be lower in the HP group than in the HF or N group, except for the branched-chain amino acid concentration, which tended to be higher after ingesting the HP diet than other diets. These findings suggest that consuming an HP diet is not likely to facilitate exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy, partly due to the plasma amino acid imbalance induced by habitual HP diet consumption.

Coriander Seeds in Diet

Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2638-4469.japb-18-2565

Coriander, commonly known as Sabit dhania in Pakistan is a well-known spice used in traditional cooking. It is an essential component of ayurvedic medicine used for the treatment of digestion and gastric ailments. Coriander seeds are available throughout the year as whole seeds and in powdered form. Fresh Coriander seeds possess earthy bitter flavour with strong aroma. Essential oils of its seed extracts possess numerous valuable constituents which could be exploited for the preparation of medicinal combatants against several acute and chronic diseases.  

Culture and Mediterranean Diet

Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-18-2272

We discuss different aspects of the Mediterranean diet, including the historical, anthropological and cultural. The different foods that are characteristic of the Mediterranean diet are used to create all kinds of recipes, which are valued in gastronomic terms and are also highly nutritional. Bread, wine and extra virgin olive oil have been symbols of civilisation and prosperity for the peoples of the Mediterranean for thousands of years. The key elements of the Mediterranean diet are variety, moderation and the predominance of vegetables over food sourced from animals. These are complemented by a philosophy of life that values personal relationships, the pursuit of happiness and physical activity. A colourful cuisine has developed around the Mediterranean, which is rich and aromatic and which might be said to live in harmony with nature. The Mediterranean diet is about sharing, enjoying conversation around the table, and relaxing after the meal with a siesta. With the globalisation of food, the chronobiological rhythm of food intake has become skewed, and food industrialisation has led to the homogenisation of eating behaviours. The great chefs of today are artists, bold and dazzlingly creative, masters of harmony and subtlety, arousing hedonistic pleasures with this new form of artistic expression.

How Knowledge on Microbiota may be Helpful to Establish an Optimal Diet for Health Maintenance

Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-18-2501

In the last few years, gut microbiota has been identified to be an essential mediator in health and disease. In fact, it interacts with various organs and systems in the body, including brain, lung, liver, bone, cardiovascular system, and others. Microbiota-derived metabolites such as the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate are primary signals, which link the gut microbiota and physiology. Then, the findings on the roles of microbiota profoundly change not only the key concepts of biology and medicine, but also of nutrition. In fact, it is currently evident how the main task of nutrition is not to nourish us, but to maintain a comfortable environment for the intestinal microbiota. In this way, it works in symbiosis with us, correctly controlling the functioning of the organs, the physiological parameters and the cellular regenerative processes. It is also evident that the strength of reparative processes correlates with the ability of digestive system to process complex foods, which increases during weaning, a period of time in which the diversity of bacterial strains increases. Therefore, a task of food is to keep trained the digestive system, to which it corresponds an high microbiota diversity. Elderly leads to reduced microbiota diversity to which corresponds an intestinal frailty, responsible for the frailty of the elderly. In conclusion, a correct diet may not only keep us in good health but may also guarantee us longer longevity.

Identification and Quantification of an Adulterant in a Dietary Supplement Marketed for Sexual Enhancement

Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-18-2344

In recent years, the consumption of dietary supplements (DS) has increased worldwide. In Argentina, approximately 14 million DS units were sold between 2015 and 2017. The adulteration of DS with active pharmaceutical ingredients or their analogues has been reported. This represents an alarming emerging risk to public health. The aim of this work was to detect the possible adulteration of a DS marketed in Argentina for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Initially, thin layer chromatography analysis of the DS capsules content suggested the presence of a major compound. For the isolation and purification of this compound, an easy method consisted of a liquid-liquid extraction (water/CH2Cl2) followed by re-crystallisation from ethanol, is reported. Spectroscopic techniques such as mono- and bidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry allowed its identification as tadalafil. A rapid and reliable method was developed for the quantification of tadalafil in this DS by high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). The mean content of tadalafil per capsule was 21.2 mg which represents a slightly higher value than that found in approved products in Argentina (5 or 20 mg per tablet). In addition, an undeclared alga was identified in the DS by microscopic techniques.

Veterinary Healthcare Open Access

Effect of Digestible Threonine Level of Diet on Productive Performance, Commercial Egg Grading and Egg Quality of 55- to 61-Week-Old Laying Hens

Nov 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-17-1795

The aim of this study was to establish the digestible threonine (dig. Thr) requirements and the ideal proportion between Thr and Lys for Isa Brown laying hens on productive traits and egg quality characteristics from 55- to 58- and 59- to 61 weeks of age. Increased levels of L-Thr were added to a basal diet that contained 3.7 g/kg of dig. Thr. Therefore, diets containing 3.7, 4.0, 4.3, 4.6, 4.9 and 5.2 g/kg of dig. Thr and a relation between Thr and Lys of 0.58, 0.63, 0.67, 0.72, 0.77 and 0.81, respectively were provided to laying hens. A total of 216 hens were distributed in a randomized design among the 6 experimental diets. There were 9 replicates per treatment, and 4 birds per replicate. Data were analyzed by repeated measures analysis using the MIXED procedure of SAS. The main effects (dig. Thr level and experimental period) and their interaction were studied. Neither the dig. Thr level nor the experimental period had effect on performance traits and egg quality. Also, commercial egg grading was not influenced by period. However, there was a quadratic effect (P<0.001) of dig. Thr level within each scale egg weight. In conclusion, diets containing more than 3.7 g/kg of dig. Thr do not improve laying hens productivity at 55- to 61-week-old.

Autism Spectrum Disorders and Gluten/Casein Free Diet Treatment: A Systematic Review (1990-2016)

Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-17-1710

Background: High number of patients suffering from autism spectrum disorders utilize dietary intervention methods, especially gluten-free/casein-free diet. In contrast with its’ extensive usage no sufficient and consistent data exist to support its’ efficiency and safety. Objective: The main aim of this systematic review is to provide a general look to the efficiency and safety of gluten-free/casein-free diet treatment for autism spectrum disorders. Method: Studies used in this systematic review are gathered from 3 online databases (PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library). Inclusion criteria are established for study selection. Articles published in a peer-reviewed article between 1990 and 2016 in English about our topic of interest and conducted with patients under the age of eighteen (18) are selected and further analyzed (“Level of Evidence” and “Grade of Recommendation” criteria are utilized). Results: Even though some studies with high values of “Level of Evidence” claim that gluten-free/casein-free diet is beneficial for patients suffering from autism spectrum disorders, studies with lower risk of bias demonstrate otherwise. Since studies such as case reports and cohort studies may contain bias associated with small sample size, absence of clear assessment methods, lack of randomization and short treatment period we suggest that there is no sufficient data to support gluten-free/casein-free diet treatment. Conclusion: Due to controversial outcomes from studies that have different “Level of Evidence” we speculate that efficiency of gluten-free/casein-free diet might be related to individual genetic differences. Therefore, studies conducted with large study groups could not provide statistically significant data to support this treatment option. Further studies should be conducted, especially in the field of genetics, in order to test our hypothesis.

Neoplasms Open Access

Tumor Growth Dynamics: Dietary Fish Oil Induced Inhibition of Human Breast Carcinoma Growth, A Phenomenon of Reduced Cellular DNA Synthesis or Increased Cell Loss?

Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-1716.jn-17-1495

Diets high in unsaturated fatty acids, especially those containing high levels of linoleic acid, e.g., corn oil, enhance mammary gland tumorigenesis in experimental animals. In contrast, diets high in long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA), e.g. menhaden oil, appear to have a suppressive effect on this tumorigenic process. Many mechanisms have been proposed to explain the tumor inhibitory action exerted by menhaden oil and other fish oils, e.g., differences in prostaglandin metabolism, energy efficiency, alterations of the immune system, changes in lipid peroxidation, etc. Fundamental to a mechanistic understanding of this phenomenon, however, is an understanding as to whether or not the tumor inhibitory activities of dietary fish oil is mediated via an inhibition of tumor cell proliferation or mediated via an enhancement of tumor cell loss. Whether the amount of dietary fat or the type of fat effects mammary tumorigenic processes, via an effect on tumor cell proliferation or tumor cell loss, has not been clearly established. In the studies described in this communication, three methods were utilized to study tumor cell proliferation, i.e., H3-thymidine autoradiographic analysis, 5-bromo 2'-deoxyuridine (Brdu) flow cytometric analysis, and proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) flow cytometric analysis. Two methods were used to study tumor cell loss, i.e., a determination of the I125Urd tumor emission rate and a determination of a cell loss factor from the formulas of Steel and Begg. The tumor examined was the human breast carcinoma cell line MDA- MB231 maintained in athymic nude mouse. No significant difference in cell proliferation between carcinomas of mice fed a high corn oil diet (20% w/w) and a diet high in fish oil (19% menhaden oil, 1% corn oil). In contrast, a significant (p<0.05) increase in the rate of I125Urd emission rate and cell loss factor from the carcinomas in the fish oil fed mice compared to the corn oil fed mice was observed. In summary, the decreased tumor volume in the human breast carcinomas maintained in athymic nude mice fed a fish oil diet as compared to those fed a corn oil diet, appears to be due, at least in part, to an increased rate of carcinoma cell loss rather than a decreased rate of carcinoma cell proliferation.

Reversal of Obesity: The Quest for the Optimum Dietary Regimen

Jun 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-17-1548

A new approach to weight loss and weight loss maintenance is urgently needed, with the global epidemic of obesity leading to ever higher levels of chronic disease. This new approach should be cheap and simple, it should maintain essential nutrients and not deplete lean mass, should have minimal adverse effects and be carried out safely at home without support from the healthcare profession. This review looked at the forms of caloric restriction (CR) investigated in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and found that supervised continuous and intermittent CR was more effective than other forms of weight loss over periods from 12 weeks to 2 years and could improve cardiovascular and diabetes risk factors. CR was equally as effective as bariatric surgery, suggesting that it is the post-surgery caloric restriction that has the impact on weight, rather than the surgery itself. Intermittent CR, including alternate day fasting (ADF), was as effective as continuous CR but may show improved compliance and higher lean mass. Unsupervised weight loss maintenance presents a greater problem, since in most weight loss regimens all the weight lost is ultimately regained. Although both continuous and intermittent CR can be effective, it has been found that ADF and a higher protein intake is more likely to maintain the weight loss. These results hold for all age groups and ethnicities and both genders. These findings suggest that intermittent CR, and particularly ADF, may be a viable form of weight loss and maintenance which fulfils all the criteria above. It is therefore recommended that larger RCTs investigate intermittent CR and ADF as a viable and cost effective form of weight loss and weight loss maintenance.

Dietary Advice on Prescription (DAP). A Pedagogical Model for Better Dietary Habits Tested in a Two-Year Randomized Clinical Trial. 

Mar 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-16-1161

There Is A Gap Between What We Know And What We Do, Such As Knowing What We Should Eat And What We Actually Eat, A So-Called “Attitude/Behavior Gap”. It Is Not Necessary To Go From A Change In Attitude To A Change In Behavior. It Is Possible To Do The Opposite; In Other Words, It Is Possible To Go From A Change In Behavior To A Change In Attitude. The Objective Of This Paper Is To Describe And Explain The Concept Of Dietary Advice On Prescription (DAP) And Present The Reasons And Evidences For The DAP Messages. Dietary Advice On Prescription (DAP) Starts With Discussing Behaviors Related To Dietary Habits And Then Goes From Behaviors Towards Attitudes. DAP Is A Theory-Based Pedagogical Model That Deals With Behaviors Related To Why, How And When We Eat, Rather Then What We Eat. The DAP Model Is A Method That Quickly Leads The Client Onto A Track That Yields Autonomy, Respects The Client’s Integrity, Gives Confirmation, Emphasizes The Delight And Pleasure Of Eating, Stimulates Discussions And Gives The Client The Initiative In These Discussions. In A Clinical Situation, The Counsellor Lays Out The DAP Postcards On A Table And The Client Picks One Card (Or Several) That Feels Relevant And Interesting For The Client To Discuss. Together They Make An Agenda For The Discussion Such As, For Instance, In What Order To Discuss The DAP Postcards. The Counsellor Asks In An Open Manner With A Motivational Interview (MI) Spirit Why The Client Has Chosen The Particular Card(S). The Client Explains, Elaborates, Turns And Twist About The Choices He/She Has Made. The Results Of The First Published Qualitative Study Of This Two-Year Randomized Controlled Trial Demonstrate That The Participants Found The Concept Valuable.

Efficacy of a Hypocaloric Mediterranean Diet in Overweight Patients: Factors Predictive of Completion

Dec 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-16-1390

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of a weight loss programme and the factors that predict successful adherence of the treatment. Methodology: A retrospective chart review of 500 overweight outpatients (427 women, 73 men), mean age 41.7 years (range: 18–81) and mean BMI of 31.44 kg/m2 (range: 25.09–51.33), treated at an obesity specific clinic. A programme involving a hypocaloric Mediterranean diet was prescribed, along with suggestions for leisure exercise and daily activity. The weekly follow-up continued until the weight loss goal was reached (‘completion’ group) or the patient discontinued the programme (‘dropout’ group). Key Results: Those that completed the programme achieved a mean weight loss of 10.6 kg (12.9% percentage loss of initial body weight) and a mean body fat mass loss of 26.8%. Factors predictive of completion were: gender (males higher completion), previous dietary programmes (predictive of dropout), initial percentage of fat mass (higher percentage, lower completion), age (younger age, lower completion) and hypothyroid disease (predictive of dropout). Conclusions: A hypocaloric Mediterranean diet and moderate exercise could help to reduce body weight and body fat in overweight patients. Treatment completion of self-selected and self-paying patients is low, and appear to be more effective for men, persons with a low percentage of fat mass, older age groups and those who have not made other previous diets.

Obesity Management Open Access

A Pilot Study Assessing the Impact of a High Protein Supplementation Diet on Fat Mass in Obese Adolescents with and without Type 2 Diabetes

Sep 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-450X.jom-16-1062

Background: Obese adults with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) have shown differences in body composition and response to varying diets when compared to obese adults without T2D. This difference in body composition affects management options for obesity. Such studies have not been done on adolescents thus far. Objectives: To estimate differences in fat mass at baseline as well as following a two-week high protein liquid diet in obese adolescents with and without T2D. Methods: Thiswas a pilot study using a non-randomized, unblinded pre/post intervention design without a control group. We planned to recruit 40 subjects (20 per group, with and without T2D) from ages 10 – 19 years, with Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 95 percentile. Body fat mass was measured via the Bod Pod® at baseline and after two weeks of following the diet with Ensure High Protein shakes. Change in fat mass is presented as mean differences and 95% confidence intervals. Results: We recruited 28 subjects, 19 completed the study and 12 were compliant with the diet. The mean difference in fat mass percent from baseline in subjects who completed the study (n=19) and without T2D was 1.4 (95% confidence interval (CI): -2.1 to -0.8) and in subjects with T2D was 1.2 (95% CI: -3.6 to 1.24). Conclusion: We did not find any meaningful difference in fat mass at baseline or after following a two-week high protein diet between the groups. High dropout rate and noncompliance with the diet were major limitations.

Diet and Nutritional Status of the Older Adults in Rural India

Aug 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-16-1157

Objectives: World has witnessed a considerable increase in the proportion of elderly population.Aging is associated with decreased physical activity and metabolism and thereby the changes in the nutritional requirements of older adults.The objective of this communication was to assess the nutritional status of rural elderly population in India. Methodology: A community based cross-sectional study; adopting multistage stratified random sampling procedure was carried out by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB), during 2005-06 among the rural population of nine major states of India. A total of 3871 older adults were covered for anthropometry and of them, a total of 2138 older adults were covered for dietary assessment. Key Results: In general, the consumption of all the foods was below recommended daily intakes (RDI), and the in-adequacy (<70% of RDI) of intake was high with respect to leafy vegetables, milk & milk products, fats & oils and sugar & jaggery. Similarly, the in-adequacy of intakes of micronutrients such as vitamin A, iron, riboflavin and free folic acid was high among both genders. The poor intake of diet was reflected in high prevalence of chronic energy deficiency (CED) among the rural elderly in India. Conclusions: In general,the rural elderly were subsisting on inadequate diets in terms of both quantity and quality. Similarly, the prevalence of CED among elderly is a ‘‘very high’’ public health nutrition problem in India. Therefore, the Government of India should initiate appropriate nutrition intervention measures to improve the overall nutritional status and special nutrition policies to address the health and nutritional problems of the aging population.

Does a Controlled Diet Improve Cellulite?

Jul 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-16-986

Abstract: Several researchers have suggested that a targeted diet for reducing theadipose tissue may interfere with the severity of cellulite. Others emphasize that the diet composition seems to play a more relevant role than the calorie profile for weight loss and cellulite control. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of a controlled diet on body composition and cellulite improvement in adult women. Methods: Thirty two healthy women, aged from 25 to 40 were included. They receivedan orientation for a controlled diet to be followed for 3 months. Assessments were performed at the baseline and the end of the study which included four parameters: 1) Photonumeric cellulite severity scale; 2) Anthropometric measuremets 3) Skin elasticity (Cutometer®) and 4) Collagen density or echogenicity and length of the dermis-hypodermis interface line (ultrasonography - DermaScan®). The data was compared with the Paired T-test, Wilcoxon and Pearson's correlation for statistical analyses. Results: Only 14 completed the study. Although the scores of photonumeric scalereduced, there was no difference in the grade of cellulite severity. There were significant reductions in body measurement. The skin elasticity showed no significant change. On the other hand, the dermal density or echogenicity showed a significant increase in the right and left sides (p = 0.05 and p = 0.005, respectively); however, no difference was observed in the lenght of dermis-hypodermis line. Conclusion: the controlled diet was effective for the reduction of weight and body composition, but despite the increase in dermal collagen density, no clinical effect on cellulite could be detected.

Individual Dietary Diversity Score for Diabetic and Hypertensive Patients in Cote d’Ivoire

Apr 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-16-943

Unlike developed countries, monitoring of the alimentation quality is important in developing countries. In recent years, several methods of assessing food consumption using simple tools the 24-hour diet recall have been proposed. This individual dietary diversity score (IDDS) is a simplified method for assessing the quality of diets, defined as the number of food groups represented in the diet over a period of time. We conducted an individual qualitative food consumption survey based on the 24 hours recall method. It was an Interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect information.The classification terciles of Dietary Diversity score was obtained from the 14 food groups recommended by FAO. 200diabetic and 200 hypertensive patients regularly followed in the same hospital (University hospital of Treichville) were included in this study without any distinction about treatment. The average of individual dietary diversity score was to 5.6 ± 1.58 for diabetic against 6 ± 1.94 food groups consumed the day before by hypertensive. Hypertensive patients in our study seemed o better diversity their diet with 8% of them who had a high score against 0.5% for diabetic. The food groups most consumed by our population were cereals, white tubers, other vegetables, fish and oils and fats at the expense leafy vegetables, vitamin A fruits, other fruits and legumes, nuts and seeds. In terms of anthropometric factors, we found the influence of waist circumference on food diversification in diabetic and not from hypertensive. Considering the importance of dietary diversity to nutrition and health, these results show the need to mobilize efforts for ensuring that people have better access to and knowledge about adequate nutrition. Despite the fact that this study has to be performed and that comparisons with other countries are required to harmonize the methodology, our results show the interest of the use of a simple tool to assess the quality of the food within the population. Using of this tool is certainly a future solution for a rapid diagnostic of diets quality.

Exploring the use of an iPhone App: A Novel Approach to Dietary Assessment

Feb 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-14-566

Recent advancements in smartphone technology have provided new methods of dietary assessment. An iTunes application (app) called Meal Snap lets users take pictures of the meal they eat, and then estimates the calories of the food items eaten. We conducted a pilot study to explore the user-friendliness and calorie estimation functions of the Meal Snap app. Two female nutrition graduate students pilot-tested the Meal Snap app. Using the app, each student took pictures of foods and drinks consumed daily for two weeks. The data were analyzed using the Nutritionist ProTM software, version 4.4.0. The mean daily caloric intake obtained from the Meal Snap was then compared with that of Nutritionist ProTM. Paired samples t-tests and correlations were carried out using SPSS, version 19.Results indicated there was no significant difference in mean daily caloric consumption between Meal Snap and Nutritionist ProTM (p= 0.706). Additionally, there was a significant correlation between Meal Snap and Nutritionist ProTM calorie counts (Spearman r= 0.625, p< 0.001). It took about 35 minutes per week (or 5 minutes/day) to snap pictures and edit descriptions, whereas entering data for calorie analysis with Nutritionist ProTM took about 85-90 minutes per week (about 13 minutes/day).Findings suggest that Meal Snap may be a user-friendly tool to estimate dietary intake. Future research should include a larger sample and people of diverse ethnic backgrounds, dietary habits and age groups.

Vegetarianism in Food-Based Dietary Guidelines

May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-14-588

Plant foods are staples of many cultures in the world. Conversely, the appearance of vegetarianism in Western countries is a relatively recent phenomenon, showing an upward trend: people following vegetarian diets (both lacto-ovo-vegetarian-LOV and vegan-VEG), account today for about 10% of the Western population. According to the principle of non-discrimination, the most recent national dietary guidelines for the general population (DGLs) of some Western countries have adapted their contents to comprise vegetarian eating patterns. Moreover, since 1997, specific vegetarian food guidelines (VFGs) were developed. The aim of this review was to summarize and compare the information and recommendations of the food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) contained in the DGLs usable by vegetarians, and in the main VFGs; to extract a list of basic criteria for the planning of a well-balanced vegetarian diet, and to identify the most valid FBDG for vegetarians. An Internet search was conducted in the English language, in order to identify national DGLs applicable to vegetarian dietary patterns, and international VFGs. Four Western DGLs and six VFGs were selected. Compared to the majority of DGLs, VFGs are not an "adaptation" of omnivorous (OMN) eating patterns to vegetarian ones, but rather devoted guides: they include only foods consumed by vegetarians, and take into account their specific nutritional needs. VFGs offer qualified advice to meet the most updated standards of adequacy and safety of the diet: the varied consumption of all plant foods, mainly unprocessed; the respect of individual’s calorie requirements; the optional addition of small amounts of foods of animal origin (dairy/eggs); the attention towards some potentially critical nutrients. According to this criteria, the VFG for North American Vegetarians can represent the most accurate and practical model: not only is it consistent with research on the adequacy of vegetarian diets, but it is applicable both to LOV and VEG eating patterns and to all lifecycle stages beyond 4 years of age.

Gender Differences in Adherence to Mediterranean Diet and Risk of Atrial Fibrillation.

May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-13-210

Background. Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MedD) is associated with a reduction of overall mortality and mortality from cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In a previous study we found a relationship between intake of antioxidant vitamins with diet and risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). The present study focuses on gender differences relative to diet and antioxidant intake in patients (pts) with a first detected episode of AF. Methods. A group of 400 pts, 205 men and 195 women, was investigated. A control group of 400 subjects, age and sex matched, was selected and compared. Nutritional parameters were assessed by a self-administered food frequency validated questionnaire (116 items) completed by an interviewer-administered 24 h diet recall. We previously constructed a MedD adherence score based on a prior scoring system developed for the Greek population. Consumption of cereals, vegetables, legumes, fruit, fish, dairy products, cups of espresso coffee, chocolate snacks, soda drinks and wine was investigated. Results. The MedD Score was higher in women compared to men (28.8 + 2.0 vs 20.1 + 2.5; p<0.001) and was higher in healthy subjects compared to patients with AF (27.9 + 5.6 vs 22.3 + 3.1; p<0.001). In pts with AF the estimated intake of total antioxidants was higher in women (19.9 ± 5.6 vs 11.2 ± 7.4 mmol/d; p<0.001), and women had higher intake of antioxidants from fruit and vegetables. Conclusions. Women showed high adherence to the MedD and higher intake of antioxidants from fruit and vegetables compared to AF men. Men had higher intake of antioxidants from coffee. Women that developed AF were older, with lower adherence to the MedD, and were more sedentary.

Breakfast Cereal and Nutrition Education on Body Mass Index and Diet Quality in Elementary School Children: A Pilot Study

Jan 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-14-534

Objective: Skipping breakfast has been associated with an increased risk of obesity. This randomized controlled pilot study tested whether emphasizing breakfast consumption, in conjunction with nutrition counseling, would improve weight status and dietary quality in children. Design and Methods: Twenty children were recruited and randomized to a breakfast (BF, n=11) or control (n=9) intervention. Both groups received weekly group nutrition counseling for 12 wk but breakfast consumption was emphasized, and ready-to-eat (RTE) cereal provided, to BF only. Anthropometric measurements were taken weekly. Three-day food records were taken at baseline and endpoint. Results: Weight status did not change significantly, however, children in BF displayed an overall decrease in BMI (-1.0±5.1%) whereas children in the control group had an overall increase (1.1±7.2%) from baseline (P=0.52). Three-day food records (BF, n=6; control, n=5) revealed group x time interactions on total sugars (P=0.007), folate (P=0.05), vitamin B12 (P=0.03), sodium (P=0.05), niacin (P=0.009), and vitamin B6 (P=0.023). Except for sodium, BF had improvements in these nutrients relative to the control group. Conclusions: Preliminary data from this study show that the provision of RTE cereal with weekly nutrition counseling may positively affect intake of essential nutrients. The effects of breakfast consumption on weight status are still uncertain.

The Journey from Personalized Medication to Customized Nutrition

Dec 2025

The journey from personalized medicine to customized nutrition represents a significant paradigm shift in healthcare, emphasizing the holistic method for a person's or girl's well-being. in this transition, the know how of the unique genetic makeup , metabolic profile, and way of lifestyles elements of everybody will become paramount. customized medicinal drug has long centered on tailoring scientific remedies to the genetic and physiological traits of sufferers, optimizing efficacy, and minimizing detrimental effects. Now, custom-designed nutrients increase this idea further, recognizing that weight reduction plays an essential function in health and disease prevention. Key to this evolution is the mixing of advanced technology together with genomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, allowing the suitable identification of dietary styles and nutritional requirements tailored to a person's particular desires. This summary explores the trajectory of this adventure, highlighting the pivotal characteristic of interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and researchers. With the useful resource of leveraging slicing facet generation and records-pushed strategies, personalized vitamins keep the promise of revolutionizing knowledge we method nutritional interventions, moving some distance from generalized guidelines towards targeted strategies tailored to all people's precise organic make up and way of life. expertise, traumatic conditions which include accessibility to this technology, ethical issues, and the desire for sturdy, proof-primarily based practices remain. In conclusion, the shift from customized treatments to personalized nutrient expertise is a transformative generation in healthcare, empowering people to take proactive management of their health through tailor made nutrition interventions. This summary underscores the importance of endured studies and collaboration in figuring out the entire functionality of personalized vitamins in selling health and well-being.

The Energy–Matter–Behavioral Model of Mental Health Hygiene: A Systems-Based Framework for Sustainable Well-Being

Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-25-5603

The Energy–Matter–Behavioral (EMB) model offers a systems-based lens for understanding and maintaining mental health hygiene. This framework integrates stress reduction, biological resilience, and behavioral reinforcement into a coherent triad, addressing not only symptoms but underlying energetic and material dynamics. By aligning practices such as exercise, meditation, social connection, sleep, and diet with EMB principles, this model presents a transdisciplinary, evidence-informed approach to mental health in an overstimulated world.

Assessing The Nutritional Status and Health Outcomes of Women and Children in Rajshahi, Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Study

Nov 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-5360

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.

Effectiveness of The Luo Yuan Technique in Patients with Hyperuricemia, Case Report

Oct 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-3360.ijco-25-5740

Significance This case report describes the alternative management of hyperuricemia through acupuncture using the Luo Yuan technique. Case presentation A 53-year-old Mexican man was diagnosed with secondary hyperuricemia. The patient began to experience arthralgia in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the first toe on his left foot after consuming a high amount of purine-rich foods, with a 10-year history. The symptoms were sporadically controlled with the use of colchicine and indarzone. In a six-element blood chemistry test, serum uric acid was 8.7 mg/dL before acupuncture treatment and 8.3 mg/dL at the end of treatment, without applying dietary restrictions on purine consumption. Conclusions and relevance This report demonstrates the potential efficacy of acupuncture at the Luo and Yuan points of the Spleen and Stomach meridians in reducing elevated blood uric acid levels. This suggests its potential as an alternative treatment for patients with hyperuricemia and other metabolic disorders.

Farming Open Access

Impact of Phytase-Supplemented Palm Kernel Cake on Growth, Feed Efficiency, and Economic Viability in Poultry

Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-2232.jf-25-5519

The rising costs of conventional poultry feed ingredients, such as soybean, maize, and fish meal, have prompted the search for more affordable and sustainable alternatives in poultry production. This study investigates the use of phytase-supplemented Palm Kernel Cake (PKC) as a replacement for soybean meal to improve feed efficiency, nutrient absorption, and growth performance in poultry. White Leghorn layers, Rhode Island Red layers, broilers, and cockerels were fed three different feed formulations: conventional feed (CF), Moderate PKC with Phytase (MPP), and High PKC with Phytase (HPP). The results showed that PKC-based diets significantly reduced feed costs while maintaining satisfactory growth, although CF led to higher body weight gain and feed efficiency. The MPP formulation struck an optimal balance between cost savings and nutritional quality, making it a viable option for layers and cockerels, while CF remained the most effective for broilers. While the HPP formulation resulted in lower feed costs, it compromised weight gain and overall profitability. These findings highlight the potential of phytase-enhanced PKC as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to conventional feed, particularly in regions with high feed costs. However, the study emphasizes the importance of balancing cost reductions with feed quality to maximize profitability. Future research should focus on optimizing PKC inclusion levels and exploring additional enzyme supplements to further enhance feed efficiency and support sustainable poultry farming practices. This study provides valuable insights into how strategic feed formulation can support both economic and production goals in the poultry industry.

Global importance of supporting the krill to whale component of the pelagic food web associated with migrations following deep sea seamounts

Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-0282.imsj-25-5590

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.

A Study on Nutraceuticals

Mar 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-4921

Hippocrates trusted foodstuff, maybe medicine, and healthcare management, administration, and costing are important. Nutraceuticals, derived from "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical," cover differing healing areas like “antagonistic-hard, cold and cough, sleep difficulties, digestion, cancer prevention, osteoporosis, blood pressure, cholesterol management, pain relievers, depression, and diabetes”. “Stephen De Felice”, “founder of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, created the term in 1989”.Functional foods, like milk and orange juice, supply health benefits that surpass food, in the way that a better lifestyle and a lower risk of ailment. Nutraceuticals, in another way, involve fortified dairy products like milk that help avoid or cure illnesses and disorders apart from anaemia.Conventional arrangements like Solvents extraction , Soxhlet distillation ,maceration and “Non conventional designs” like ‘Microwave assisted origin’, Ultrasound Assisted Extraction are used to restore the bioactive material from plants for nutraceuticals.”The Indian Health and Dietary Supplement Association” supports drug, nutraceutical, herbaceous, and direct selling energies by categorising them based on chemical arrangement, food type, and conventional arrangement.This paper gives a brief review on nutraceuticals ,its history , its market trend , extraction techniques , benefits and its applications .

The Effects of Dairy Consumption on Vaccine Immune Response and Immunoglobulins: A Systematic Literature Review

Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-4938

Public health interest in vaccinations and immune protection has increased with the COVID-19 pandemic. Dairy products are an important source of protein and other nutrients, and there are unresolved research questions regarding the potential health impact of dairy products on the enhancement of immune response. A systematic literature review was conducted to synthesize the published literature reporting the effects of dairy interventions on: 1) the vaccine-specific immune response and 2) immunoglobulins in the absence of vaccination. To assess study validity and quality, we used the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Criteria Checklist. Sixty-one studies (59 clinical trials, 1 cohort, 1 cross-sectional survey) were included, spanning 1983-2017. Ten trials evaluated the effect of dairy intervention on vaccine-specific IgG, IgA, IgM, vaccine-specific antibody titers, seroprotection rates, or seroconversion rates. Of these, 7 reported significant increases with dairy interventions for post-vaccine tetanus antibodies, mean change in tetanus antibody level, total antibody titers to flagellin from Salmonella Adelaide, mean antibody titers to influenza B, influenza-specific IgA and IgG levels, and seroconversion or seroprotection rates for influenza A and B. Fifty-six studies evaluated dairy’s effects on immunoglobulins without vaccinations. The results were heterogenous, with some studies reporting significant enhancement of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgE, or IgG), while others observed no differences between groups. Clinical relevance of the immunoglobulin changes was not investigated in these studies. Dairy products and their components could enhance the efficacy of vaccines. This review highlights the evidence gaps and provides a potential roadmap for additional research.

Scrutinizing Local Probiotic Supplements and Drinks Available in the Bangladesh Market

Jan 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4802

The host's health may benefit from the probiotic microorganisms found in many products available on the market. In addition to food, these products include dietary supplements, food for special medical purposes, medicines, cosmetics, and medical devices. These products have anywhere from one to a dozen strains of bacteria from the same or different species, and sometimes they also have strains of fungi. Since the health benefits of probiotics depend on the strain, the number of cells in a dose, and the absence of pathogenic microorganisms, it is crucial to regulate the quality of probiotics. Depending on how a product is classified, how it looks, and how many microorganisms it has, it is very important to count and identify the microorganisms correctly. We investigated nine probiotic products in this study: five commercially available probiotic supplements and four probiotic drinks. The majority of commercial products did not contain all of the labeled lactic acid bacteria, nor did they contain any possibly harmful microorganisms. To ensure that consumers in Bangladesh obtain good products, probiotic-containing product rules and regulations should be developed. Furthermore, it should be the duty of probiotics-containing product manufacturers to provide consumers with information that is accurate, reliable, and compliant with legal and scientific requirements

Effect of adding different levels of soaked pigeon pea seeds (Cajanus cajan L) on the Growth and Feed Utilization Efficiency of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings.

Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-23-4637

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of socked pigeon pea seed meal on Growth and Food Utilization Efficiency of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings. 120 fish the weight and length average (3.4±0.04g and 3.2±0.00cm) were randomly distributed in 12 plastic Tanks (Aquarium) 36L according to the complete randomization, allocated to a represent four treatments (T0, T1, T2, and T3) of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings. four feeds were prepared in pellet form which consisted of 0%, 25%, 50% and 75% pigeon pea seed meal as replacement of fish meal. All diets contents 30% protein. Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings were fed at the rate of 5% of their body weight. The result showed significant variation (P < 0.05) in final body weight, weight gain (WG), daily weight growth (DWG), Specific Growth Rate (SGR), and Food Conversion Ratio (FCR) among treatments. But, high SGR in T0 (control) and the best FCR were obtained at T 0% pigeon pea seed meal. Over all, best growth performance was observed in fish fed diet T1 (25%). The best performing fish’s final weight, DWG, SGR and FCR were 9.46±0.33g, 0.13±0.01g/day, 2.93±0.73% /day and 1.49±0.30 respectively. On the other hand, there was high significant variation (P < 0.05) in survival rate were obtained at T2 (50%). this study recommend that a diet containing 25% Pigeon pea seed meal for juvenile Nile tilapia is optimum in terms of growth performance and profitability, and does not impact water quality and plankton abundance in plastic Tanks (Aquarium) culture system.

Effect of Ultra-Processed Foods Consumption on Sleep Disturbances Among Brazilian Adults’ Population: A Propensity Score Matching Approach

Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-23-4775

Background Diet, exercise and sleep are three pillars of a healthy life. These lifestyle factors influence one another in complex and dynamic ways. Consistent evidence exists about the bidirectional relationship between sleep patterns and food intake. Objectives We aim to assess the effect of the ultra-processed food(UPF) consumption on sleep disturbances in a sample of the Brazilian adults. Method We analyzed 77,298 persons aged 18 and older from the Brazilian National Health Survey (2019). A Propensity Score Matching (PSM) approach was used to address confounding bias and balance the matched exposed and control groups. The population average treatment effect (PATE) and the population average treatment effect on the treated (PATT) were estimated. Also, the Absolute Risk Increase and the Relative Risk Increase were computed. Results The findings revealed that Brazilian adults who consumed UPF experienced small but statistically significant sleep disturbances compared to non-UPF users. Furthermore, salty UPF showed small but significant worsening of sleep compared to sweet UPF users. Conclusion The consumption of UPF is associated with sleep disturbances in Brazilian adults. The consumption of salty UPF had a more significant effect on sleep disorders than sweet UPF in the overall population. However, among individuals who already consumed sweet or salty UPF, these foods had a more significant effect on sleep disorders. To gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between UPF consumption, sleep disorders, and their impact on health and quality of life, further research is needed, including precise measurements and consideration of personality traits using prospective designs.

Human Health Research Open Access

Estimation of Glycemic Index of Liver Nutritional Supplement and its Importance in Liver Nutrition

Sep 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-23-4713

A global increase in incidence of chronic liver disease (CLD) indicated the necessity of dietary and lifestyle modification. Low glycemic index (GI) diet was reported to have a significant role in controlling diabetes caused by liver dysfunction. The International Standards Organisation (ISO) has standardized the determination of GI of a food in healthy individuals. This study aimed to estimate GI value of a high protein, energy dense liver nutritional supplement. This cross-over randomized controlled study randomly allotted 15 participants to consume either reference food 27.5 gm glucose (glucose monohydrate) or 77 gm nutritional supplement (equivalent to 25 gm of available carbohydrates); switching to another arm was done after 3 days wash-out period. After overnight fast, blood samples were collected at 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes post-consumption of s upplement or reference food. The GI was calculated from the incremental area under the blood glucose response elicited by the nutritional supplement as a percentage of the response after consumption of 27.5 gm of glucose (glucose monohydrate) by the same participant using a standard formula. Mean GI of the nutritional supplementwas estimated as 11.4 ± 2.4.With the consumption of this nutritional supplement, the blood glucose levels were reduced at all postprandial time points, compared to the reference food. The liver nutritional supplement tested has a low GI, and comparatively slower and more sustained blood glucose response. Therefore, it can be used in patients with CLD to prevent CLD-associated metabolic complications and improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Utilization Of Nutrition Services Provided At Health Facilities For Pregnant Women In Moshi – Urban, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. A Cross Sectional Study

Sep 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-22-4255

Nutrition during pregnancy is of utmost important to ensure positive pregnancy outcomes after delivery. This study examined the utilization of nutrition services provided at health facilities to pregnant women. A cross sectional study design, involving 105 pregnant women and 5 RCH providers from 2 health facilities was used. Structured questionnaires, and structured observations were used in data collection. SPSS software version 25 was used in data analysis. Results showed that, RCH providers had inadequate nutrition knowledge due to limited nutrition courses during nursing training and on job trainings/seminars. All RCH providers advised that, nutrition knowledge is important to pregnant women hence they were responsible for its delivery. In adequate staff and lack of teaching materials contributed to the poor delivery of quality nutrition education to all pregnant women as it was observed that there is variations in nutrition information given to women.   More than a half of all pregnant women (63%) started their ANC clinic during their first trimester where they received all nutrition services including education on importance of nutrition during pregnancy which helped them to be aware of the relationship between diet maternal nutrition and birth outcomes (63.8%). Most common food group that has been consumed more by pregnant women was grains, roots and tubers and plantains, while also there was high consumption of fruits and vegetables by all women as they are being more emphasized during routine clinics to prevent anemia. Also, there are some barriers that were identified by the service providers which makes their work difficult such as inadequate teaching materials like brochures, posters and jobs aids, also shortage of staff was found to be the core cause of services being provided occasionally as it is the RCH nurse who provide the education and counselling as there is no any nutritionist hired by government at the facility. Regional and district nutrition officers should coordinate and conduct on job training to health providers on issues related to nutrition in order to update their nutrition knowledge and facilitate clear, accurate and more evidence based nutrition information delivered.  

Utilization Of Nutrition Services Provided At Health Facilities For Pregnant Women In Moshi – Urban, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. A Cross Sectional Study

Sep 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-22-4255

Nutrition during pregnancy is of utmost important to ensure positive pregnancy outcomes after delivery. This study examined the utilization of nutrition services provided at health facilities to pregnant women. A cross sectional study design, involving 105 pregnant women and 5 RCH providers from 2 health facilities was used. Structured questionnaires, and structured observations were used in data collection. SPSS software version 25 was used in data analysis. Results showed that, RCH providers had inadequate nutrition knowledge due to limited nutrition courses during nursing training and on job trainings/seminars. All RCH providers advised that, nutrition knowledge is important to pregnant women hence they were responsible for its delivery. In adequate staff and lack of teaching materials contributed to the poor delivery of quality nutrition education to all pregnant women as it was observed that there is variations in nutrition information given to women.   More than a half of all pregnant women (63%) started their ANC clinic during their first trimester where they received all nutrition services including education on importance of nutrition during pregnancy which helped them to be aware of the relationship between diet maternal nutrition and birth outcomes (63.8%). Most common food group that has been consumed more by pregnant women was grains, roots and tubers and plantains, while also there was high consumption of fruits and vegetables by all women as they are being more emphasized during routine clinics to prevent anemia. Also, there are some barriers that were identified by the service providers which makes their work difficult such as inadequate teaching materials like brochures, posters and jobs aids, also shortage of staff was found to be the core cause of services being provided occasionally as it is the RCH nurse who provide the education and counselling as there is no any nutritionist hired by government at the facility. Regional and district nutrition officers should coordinate and conduct on job training to health providers on issues related to nutrition in order to update their nutrition knowledge and facilitate clear, accurate and more evidence based nutrition information delivered.  

Orthorexia Nervosa and Quality of Life in an Austrian Sample of Young Adults – An Exploratory Study

Aug 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4701

Young adulthood is a sensitive phase that comes with many developmental tasks. Successful mastery of these challenges is crucial not only for long-term physical and mental health. A positive relationship with one's own body and associated healthy dietary and behavioral patterns are essential building blocks for healthy adolescence and adult life. But being overly concerned with healthy food may lead to decreased quality of life and negative (mental) health outcomes. This study was conducted via a cross-sectional online questionnaire including the Düsseldorfer Orthorexieskala(DOS), the WHO Quality of Life BREF and questions about life style and nutritional habits. We investigated the prevalence of ON and its relationship with different aspects of quality of life and lifestyle factors (sport and nu trtional habits) in a sample of young adults in Austria. No significant difference in the DOS-scores of male and female participants were found and no significant difference between students and non-students. High DOS-scores significantly impair all three domains of QoL. We did not find a significant relationship between high DOS-scores and taking nutritional supplements or being vegan, vegetarian or omnivore. Participants with high DOS-scores spent significantly more hours per week with sport/exercising.

Effect of Protein and Energy-Dense Nutritional Supplement with Immunonutrients on Cachexia in Cancer Patients: An Open-Label, Single-Arm Study Among Indian Patients

Jun 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4587

Background Cachexia is highly prevalent in cancer patients and is responsible for as much as 20% of all cancer deaths. Nevertheless, there is little emphasis on cachexia in routine clinical practice. This study looks at the efficacy and tolerability of a protein and energy-dense nutritional supplement with immunonutrients on cachexia in cancer patients. Methods This was a three-month, prospective, open-label study of patients undergoing radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy for head and neck or gastrointestinal or lung cancer. Efficacy endpoints were mean change in muscle strength, acute phase proteins (albumin and pre-albumin), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, weight, Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), and nutritional status at the end of the study period. Results The study population consists of 47 (79.66%) males and 12 (20.34%) females with a mean age of 47.98 ± 12.16 years. The mean change in muscle strength, albumin, pre-albumin, CRP levels, and weight for the overall study population was 0.17 ± 12.09 kg (P=0.9145), -0.05 ± 0.53 g/dl, (P=0.5888), -0.01 ± 0.09 g/dl (P=0.2951), 0.50 ± 37.41 mg/dl (P=0.9258), -0.59 ± 3.70 kg (P=0.2265), respectively. At the end of the study period, there was a significant improvement in the nutritional status concerning total calories, protein, and fat intake. Conclusion Protein and energy-dense nutritional supplement with immunonutrients might help in the improvement of muscle strength, GPS, and dietary intake. The addition of the supplement to the diet regime of patients with cancer cachexia increases their daily consumption of proteins which might translate to multimodal clinical benefits.

Context Specific Complementary Feeding Recommendations for Children in Pakistan Based on Secondary Analysis of National Complementary Feeding Assessment and Pakistan Demographic Health Survey 2018

Mar 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4116

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.

Syntheses of Clofarabine and Related C2′-β-fluorinated Nucleoside Analogues

Sep 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-22-4277

A multistep synthesis of 2-chloro-9-(2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro-β-D-arabinofuranosyl) adenine (clofarabine) is described from methyl β-D-ribofuranoside. A new improved method for preparation of 1,2-diacetyl D-ribofuranose derivative was developed via acetolysis of tri-O-pivaloylated D-ribofuranoside and plausible mechanism of the reaction was proposed. Synthesis of 3′,5′-di-O-pivaloyl-2,6-dichloropurine β-D-riboside along with isomeric 2′,5′-di-O-pivaloyl nucleoside was carried out by stereoselective glycosylation reaction of 2,6-dichloropurine with peracylated D-ribofuranose followed by regioselective 2´-O-deacetylation of protected β-ribonucleoside with different bases. Mild C2′-β-fluorination of the purine 3′,5′-di-O-pivaloyl ribonucleoside with an excess of diethylaminosulfur trifluoride afforded protected 2,6-dichloropurine 2′-fluoro β-D-arabinoside as the key intermediate. Efficient route to clofarabine was also investigated using anion glycosylation of 2-chloroadenine potassium salt with the 1-α-bromide and potassium tert-butoxide in binary solvent mixture, chromatography for separation of a mixture of anomeric nucleosides (a β/α ratio of 3.0:1) and deacylation of benzoylated 2′-fluoro β-nucleoside. Novel N6-isopentyl clofarabine analogue was synthesized by a direct alkylation of the parent nucleoside

Beneficial Impacts of Solanum aethiopicum L. in Diabetes Control

May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4170

Garden egg nutritional values are numerous. However, few nutritional and epidemiological data exist on the impacts of garden egg consumption on diabetes control. In this experimentally-control designed nutritional study, the effects of scarlet garden egg species (Solanum aethiopicum L.) on lipoglycemic profile, weight control and, pancreas histoarchitecture in diabetic male Wistar rats were examined. Twenty-One adult male Wistar rats inducted with diabetes were randomly categorized into three groups (n = 7, each): Diabetic control (DC); Diabetic treated with aqueous extract of garden egg (DEE) and Diabetic fed with garden egg-supplemented diet (DSE). Animals were fed for six weeks according to the experimental design. Glycemic status and body weights were assessed twice weekly while lipid analysis was conducted at the entry and 6th week of the study. Oral glucose tolerance (OGT) test was conducted. Gross analysis and tissue histology of the pancreas were assessed by Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining technique. Statistical analysis was done using analysis of variance, and the results were expressed as mean ± S.E.M. at P < 0.05. Garden egg reduced mean body weight gain (DSE: 14.53%; DEE: 10.58%; P value = 0.04) and decreased blood glucose concentrations (DEE: 37.33%; DSE: 18.68%; P = 0.03) with corresponding improved lipid profile, glycemic tolerance and control (DEE > DSE) and, preserved pancreas histoarchitecture in diabetic Wistar rats. Solanum aethiopicum (garden egg) consumption (as fresh fruit or supplemented diet) preserves pancreatic tissue histoarchitecture and improves lipoglycemic profile and weight control in diabetic Wistar rats.

Metabolic Complications of Diabetics Admitted in Emergency at the Souro-Sanou University Hospital Center, Bobo-Dioulasso (CHUSS)

Apr 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4155

The diabetic is most of the time admitted in emergency for acute complications. An inventory of these complications will guide promotional programs aimed at preventing the occurrence of these complications. This study was conducted with the aim of identifying acute complications and decompensation factors in diabetics admitted in emergency to the Souro Sanou University Hospital Center (CHUSS).It was an observational study, of descriptive transversal type, with prospective collection for 4 months. It concerned diabetics admitted to the medical and surgical emergency departments of the CHUSS. A total of 90 diabetics were included in the study. The average age was 58.81 ± 14.7 years. Type 2 diabetes accounted for 85.6% of cases. The diagnosis of diabetes was known in 74.4% of cases. The reasons for consultation were dominated by impaired conscientiousness and fever, 54.4% and 50% respectively. Metabolic complications were found in 44.4% of patients. They were dominated by hypoglycemia, which accounted for 55.3% of cases. Dietary error was the main decompensation factor in cases of hypoglycemia and was reported in 71.4% of cases. Metabolic complications are common in diabetics admitted in emergency at the CHUSS. Decompensation factors are mostly preventable.  

Veterinary Healthcare Open Access

Review on Public Health Effects of Aflatoxins in Milk and Milk-Based Foodstuffs of Dairy Cow

Mar 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-22-4105

Aflatoxins are toxigenic metabolites that are definitely occurring by lethal strains of Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus that commonly dwell and colonize in feed components and various nutritive foodstuffs particularly milk and milk based products. This Review has three main objectives; those are causes of aflatoxin, effects and methods of control in milk and milk products. Drinking of cow milk polluted with aflatoxin may overwhelm immunity and subsidize to stunting in young children, as the young children are not immune-competent during early stage. It has been internationally assessed that aflatoxin is possibly accountable for 30% of the annual cases of liver cancer. Generally, control approaches of aflatoxin can be applied during pre-harvest, cautious management in the time of harvest and postharvest decontamination. Moreover, choosing breed for aflatoxin impervious crop diversities, prevention of aflatoxin production through biological decontamination by microorganisms and their metabolites, rejection of aflatoxin by physical means in addition to inactivation by chemicals are the typical approaches that have been described in different studies. For the reason that cow milk is the most important and principal diet of children, but the risk of exposed to the cancer are more in infants. In addition, according to various investigations it also well thought that young animals are also found to be more vulnerable to aflatoxin than adults. Thus; the contamination of cow milk and milk products by AFM1 should understood as undesirable for young human and animals.

Synthesis of 2-Chloro-2′-Deoxyadenosine (Cladribine) and New Purine Modified Analogues

Nov 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-21-4017

Theefficient two-step synthesis of 2-chloro-2′-deoxyadenosine (cladribine) via the anion glycosylation of purine potassium salt with the glycosyl chloride in binary solvent mixtures is described. A new method for preparation of diprotected 2-chloro-6-fluoropurine 2′-deoxy-β- D-riboside was developed by treatment of the 2,6-dichloropurine precursor with diethylaminosulfur trifluoride (DAST). Novel N6-alkylated cladribine analogue was synthesized by amination of acylated 2,6-dihalogenopurine nucleosides. It was found that a mild hydrolysis reaction of acylated 2-chloro-6-fluoropurine 2′-deoxy-β-D-riboside gave rise to new purine hydroxylated nucleoside.

Ameliorative Potential of Chlorogenic Acid on Rotenone-Induced Neurotoxicity in Drosophila Melanogaster Model

Nov 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3993

Chlorogenic acid (CA), abundantly found in green coffee beans, is a phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties amongst others. Exposure to rotenone, a natural pesticide, induces Parkinsonism (a type of neurodegeneration) through the induction of mitochondria dysfunction and oxidative stress. Phytochemicals with antioxidant properties may be promising in attenuating this condition. In this research, the ameliorative role of CA on rotenone-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster was evaluated. Drosophila melanogaster (Harwich strain, 1- 3 days old) was used. 6 groups of five vials each with 50 flies/vial were exposed to CA (0; control (2% ethanol), 7.5, 15, 30, 45 and 60 mg/kg diet) for 28 days in the longevity analysis. A 28-day survival assay was carried out with rotenone (0, 250 and 500 μM). CA (30 mg/kg diet) was selected to evaluate its ameliorative potential on rotenone. For the study, the flies were divided into four groups of five vials each and exposed to CA and rotenone; Group A- control (2% ethanol), Group B- CA only, Group C- rotenone only and Group D- CA (30 mg/kg diet)+ rotenone (500 μM)for 7 days. Thereafter, the homogenate was evaluated for oxidative stress status, rate of emergence, negative geotaxis and acetyl cholinesterase activity. CA (30 mg/kg diet) extended the lifespan of flies by 21.4%. Also, CA ameliorated rotenone-induced perturbation in catalase, glutathione-S-transferase and acetyl cholinesterase activities, total thiol and glutathione levels, and behavioral deficit (p < 0.05). CA may have ameliorative effect against rotenone-induced toxicity and Parkinsonism.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Children Due to Lack of Intake: A Report of Two Cases at the Pediatric Department at Aristide Le Dantec Hospital

Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-21-3923

We report 2 cases of vitamin B12 deficiency in children due to deficient intake. These were 2 girls aged 4 years (case 1) and 6 years (case 2), respectively, hospitalized in December 2020 and March 2021 in the pediatric ward of Le Dantec hospital. Both patients presented with aregenative anemia, melanoderma and undernutrition. The bone marrow count in case 1 showed a dysmyelopoiesis with megablastosis. The blood vitamin B12 level was low in both cases. Folic acid blood levels were normal in both patients, but an associated martial deficiency was found in case 2. The dietary survey revealed a lack of intake of animal products rich in vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 replacement therapy was effective with rapid regression of all clinical signs observed in both children. The control of the vitamin B12 level after 1 month of treatment was normal in both patients. The disappearance of the symptoms under substitute treatment confirmed the deficiency of Vitamin B12 intake in both patients. Conclusion: Both of our patients had a profound Vitamin B12 deficiency in a context of deficiency in nutrition. The regression of the symptoms was spectacular under vitamin B12 replacement therapy, confirming the deficiency. We recommend in our context a contribution in micronutrients such as vitamins in children after weaning to avoid dietary errors.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Under Nutrition among Children Aged 6 to 59 Months in Ngoma District, Rwanda

Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3859

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.

Socio Economic Profile and Nutritional Status of the Rickshaw Pullers of Dhaka City Along with their Energy Intake Gap

Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3680

Background This study focused on nutritional status of the rickshaw pullers, their dietary energy and nutrients consumption along with their energy intake gap as compared to expenditure. Methods A cross sectional study was carried out at 15 different important locations of Dhaka city during December-January 2018. In total, 670 rickshaw pullers from these locations were randomly selected. Printed predesigned and validated semi structured questionnaire was used to record necessary information. Nutritional status was determined according to Asia specific BMI cut- off values. Energy expenditure was calculated using their Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and Physical Activity Level (PAL) value. 24-hour dietary recall method was administered for dietary analysis. Results About 65.4% of them were found within normal BMI range. About 11.5% were underweight and about 23.1% were found having more than normal BMI. Percentage of both underweight (39.0%) and overweight (35.8%) were found higher among those who were between 25 and 35 years. Average daily dietary energy consumption was 2391 kcal and energy expenditure were found 4608 kcal. Their energy consumption was found 2217 kcal less compared to their energy expenditure. Conclusion The current study revealed the nutritional status, dietary intake of the rickshaw pullers of Dhaka city and found energy gap in their dietary intake compared to their expenditure. For their better health and nutrition outcome integrated approach should be taken by the responsible authorities.

Effect of Wheat Germ, Wheat Germ Oil on Lipid Profile of Hypercholesterolemic Rats

Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-513X.ijl-20-3247

Hypercholesterolemia plays an important role in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) that represent one of the greatest worldwide medical problems nowadays. Recently, an increased attention/ interest for natural antioxidant/ hypercholesterolemia as WG/WGO is increasing. Wheat germ/ Wheat germ oil (WG/WGO) is an excellent source of essential and polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. It is one of the richest natural sources of tocopherol. This work aims to evaluate the effect of administration of wheat germ (WG) /wheat germ oil (WGO) for 6 weeks on serum lipid profile, lipid peroxidation (liver malondialdehyde) in hypercholesterolemic rats. One hundred and twenty maleSprague Dawelyrats weighing 180-192 gm were used in this study. They were randomly distributed into six groups (20 rats/ group) as follow: g1: normal control, G2: hypercholesterolemic rats; G3: Normal rats treated with WG; G4: hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WG; G5: Normal rats treated with WGO; G6: hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WGO for 6 weeks. Also WG was analysed for its nutritive value, while WGO was analysed for fatty acid profile, and studied for its physico-chemical properties. The results showed significant elevation of liver malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum lipid profile in untreated rats fed on hypercholesterolemic diet. Hypercholesterolemic rats treated with WG/WGO showed an improvement in the biochemical assay of their lipid profile compared with untreated hypercholesterolemic rats. WG/WGO may be able to protect against atherosclerosis and CVD. The administration of WG /WGO to diets of rats caused a marked reduction in TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, TG and MDA. This improvement effect may be mediated via enhancement of the antioxidant defence system and other factors. However, further clinical studies on human beings are required to assess the efficacy and safety of the WG/WGO.

Nutritional Status and Nutrition-Related knowledge Among Urban Adolescent Girls in Bangladesh

Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3606

Background Nutritional status of adolescent girls is very crucial for their health and has a great impact on the quality of the next generation. The present study aimed to investigate the nutritional status and nutrition-related knowledge among urban adolescent girls in Bangladesh. Methods A cross-sectional study involving a total 500 of adolescent girls (aged 10-19) from four schools and colleges in Dhaka city. Socio-demographic, anthropometric and nutrition-related information was collected by semi-structured questionnaires. In addition, 24 hours food recall and food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the dietary intake. Results The ages of the early adolescent and late adolescent girls yrs (Mean ± SD) were 12±1 and 17±1 respectively. The mean (±SD) BMI of the early adolescent and late adolescent was 21.12±0.32 and 22.10±3.89 correspondingly. Among the early adolescent girls, the nutritional knowledge score was about 62% (moderate), 87% had a positive attitude and 72% had good practices in their daily lives. Whereas among the late adolescent girls, the nutritional knowledge score was about 57% (moderate), 90% showed a positive attitude and 61% had good practices. Among the subject, the average calorie intake was 1491 kcal, which was 24% lower than RDA. The Carbohydrate intake was lower than the RDA but the protein and fat intake was higher than the RDA. Conclusions The dietary intake of adolescent girls was found inadequate. Nutrition education and strong motivation can create positive changes in dietary intake. To understand the real phenomena of dietary intake of adolescent girls, further study is necessary to conduct with a large sample size.

Fungal Diversity Open Access

Antimycotic Activity of Leaf Extracts of Medicinal Plants Against Dermatophytes

Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-869X.jfd-20-3603

Plant products have been used as medicines against fungal infectious diseases. In this research antimycotic activity of the leaf extracts of five medicinal plants (Nerium indicum, Catheranthus roseus, Lantana camera, Ziziphus mauritiana) were tested against three dermatophytes (Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum. gypseum). Development of more effective and less toxic antimycotic agents is required for the treatment of dermatophytosis. The plant materials were extracted with methanol, ethanol and diethyl ether solvent to investigate their antimycotic activities in Vitro. Ethanol and methanol extracts of all selected medicinal plants were showed the positive activity against all tested dermatophytes. Diethyl ether extract was showed lowest activity against T. mentagrophytes and T. rubrum and showed moderate activity against M. gypseum. The three dermatophytes differed with regard to their susceptibility to plant extracts.

Is Social Media Contributing to an Unhealthy Fixation with Health?

Sep 2020

Orthorexia Nervosa (ON) describes a pathological, unhealthy fixation with eating healthy food. This study intends to further understand ON and its possible link to the use of social media, and specifically, to test the prevalence of ON in an opportunity sample with the use of two ON measures – the ORTO-15 and the Tereul Orthorexia Scale (TOS); to use and validate a new ON measure (TOS); to examine the relationship between ON and social media use, with a focus on Instagram users; and to further understand the participants’ interpretations of the possible link between eating patterns and social media use. This study uses a convergent design and a mixed methods approach, which employs both statistical and thematic analysis (TA). Data from 201 participants suggested a high prevalence of ON across the sample, and the results also reinforced the validity of the TOS measure (α = .86). ORTO-15 scores showed significant differences between age groups, genders, and Instagram users and non-Instagram users. The TA generated three overall themes: ‘The Importance of Belonging’, ‘Health as Art’ and ‘Craving’. The high prevalence in the sample may have been a result of the researcher’s recruitment method, and the ON measures may have categorised individuals on non-medically prescribed diets as ‘orthorexic’. Both the quantitative and qualitative results offer evidence to support a possible link between ON and social media use, specifically Instagram. Further research should be done to establish official criteria and measures for ON and the effect of social media on eating patterns.

Skeletal Muscle Open Access

The Effect of Food Intakes on Musculoskeletal Pains

Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2832-4048.jsm-20-3519

Some certain foods or drinks have specific effects on musculoskeletal frameworks in time of pain. For instance, the extra intake of salt declines muscular spams (or cramps) in different limbs. The regular consumptions of milk products reduce the upper or lower musculature weakness and pain. The hot drinks and foods as other examples can help to mitigate the abdominal pains. Indeed, warm drinks boost memory through lowering the pressures in different brain ‘sections (or lobs) in fatigue time. Some plant - based diets assist to the better digestion through faster and more smooth facilitation of food transformation in stomach areas. The plant – based dietary also can decline the heart muscle shocking impulse. However, some people for different reasons (i.e. cultural) do not consume some specific foods and drinks that can be kind of disadvantages for musculature system. Nonetheless, increasing the knowledge of daily food intakes can significantly help to improve musculoskeletal health in different individual in an uncertain condition.

Caffeine Components Empower the Brain Potentiality

Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-1201.jsn-20-3523

The brain requires certain fuels to function in high level. Literally, nutritional components can modulate the brain productivity. One of the right nutrition to enhance the brain power is dietary component of caffeine. Caffeine as a component of coffee, tea and chocolate is very popular. Although, depending on the dietary demands or conventional habits some people do not consume caffeine-containing substances (i.e. foods or beverage). Nonetheless, caffeine constituents maximize the brain potential via promoting the central nervous system (CNS) through blocking an inhibitory neurotransmitter (adenosine) and releasing some other specific neurotransmitters (noradrenaline, dopamine and serotonin) in brain. The chemistry of caffeine in a standard dose in fact can affect the brain intelligence.

Awareness about the Importance of Nutrition During Pregnancy Among Women in Child Bearing Age: A Quantitative Study Among Urban Women.

Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-20-3472

Introduction An adequate nutrition pattern is of major importance for one’s health and well-being, especially during pregnancy when a woman undergoes major biological, physical, psychological and social transformations. Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies predispose the fetus to preterm birth, neural tube defects, and low birth weight for gestational age. This study was conducted to determine the nutrition awareness of women in childbearing age in order to provide a greater understanding of the life course perspective (LCP) in relation to nutrition behaviors and pregnancy. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on based on our conceptualization of nutrition awareness and questionnaire based studies of a face-to-face interview. The participants were women with age group of 17 years to 45 years participate in studies in Jeddah city. Data collection procedures A Semi-structured questionnaires prepared in English language were translated in to Arabic and then translated back to English to check for consistency. The questionnaires were pretested Human ethical committee; the questions assessed respondents’ nutrition knowledge. Results and Discussion Different questions were asked to 175 selected pregnant women to be included in this study assess knowledge of pregnant mothers on nutrition and determinant factors in the study area. Most of the respondents (34.85.2%) were in 19-25 years of age group.69.1 % (n=121) women says they pay attention to the number of soft drinks they drink each day. There would be fascinating to study awareness of specific nutrients and related issues, like consumption folic acid, non-vegetarian diet, minerals and life style such as mental stress and physical exercise.

The Hazards of Abdominal Obesity

Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-20-3269

Abdominal obesitywith a big belly is one of the worse type of morbid obesity that is associated with different health failure outcomes. Central obesity leads to an increased risk of health complications such as metabolic syndrome, hypertension, insulin resistance,type 2 diabetes, heart disease and various cancers. Abdominal obesity also can specifically cause to spinal nerve pain and backache. Depression and disability are other subsequent hazards of central fatness. More importantly ,excessive central body fat ultimately contributes in all-causes of early mortality. In regards to this, individuals with abdominal obesity is urgently needed to reduce central obesity using behavior modifications. Changes in diet and performing some exercise in everyday living are essential steps.  

Nutritional Status of Reproductive Ethnic Woman Living in Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh: Influence of Socio-economic and Nutritional Factors

Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3279

Aim This cross-sectional study assessed the nutritional status of ethnic reproductive women aged between 15-40 years, comprising 85 lactating women (LW) and 86 non-pregnant-non-lactating women (NPNLW) who lived in various parts of three hilly districts (Bandarban, Khagrachari and Rangamati) of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHTs) of Bangladesh. Materials and Method Research tool was pretested semi-structured questionnaire for this observational study. Anthropometric indices like weight, height and mid-upper-arm-circumference (MUAC) were used in assessing the nutritional status. Results Most (44.4%) of the ethnic women were Marma, followed by Chakma (39.8%), Bam (8.2%) and Tripura (5.8%). No significant (P>0.05) differences were observed in socio-economic variables between LW and NPNLW. Overall, mean age of the women was 28 (±7.2) years; mean family income was 18,822.2 (±3091) BDT and majority (86%-87%) were reported to be food secured throughout the year. Mean Dietary calorie (2631±798 kcal) intake of both groups were up to the mark according to the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) and most (80.3%-86%) of them also possessed good nutritional knowledge. However, no significant (P>0.05) differences were observed in dietary calorie intake and nutritional knowledge score between two groups of women. Overall, most (68.4%) of the women had normal body max index (BMI kg/m2), 11.7% were found to be undernourished or thin and 19.9% were overweight. It was noticed that better nutritional status of LW and NPNLW were significantly associated with literacy (P<0.05), occupancy in household chores (P<0.05), better income (P<0.05), food security (P<0.05), recommended calorie intake level (P<0.05) and better nutritional knowledge score (P<0.05). Conclusion This study showed that vast majority of the ethnic reproductive women of CHTs are in better nutritional status with normal BMI (kg/m2) and daily calorie intake according to RDA. Most of them were food secured and their nutritional knowledge score was also up to the mark. Better socio-economic condition, nutritional knowledge and accurate calorie intake play a vital role in achieving healthy nutritional status of the two women groups of CHTs.

Impact if Chlorpyrifos on the Second Instar Mosquito Larvae as Bioindicator in El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt

Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-3208.ijli-20-3268

Pesticides are the major source of concern as water pollutants. Chlorpyrifos (CPY) (O,O-diethyl-O-(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl) phosphorothioate; CAS No. 2921-88-2). CPY is a widely used organophosphate insecticide. The aim of current study was to determine the effects of CPY on the second instar larvae of Culex mosquito as a bio-indicator of water pollution. Levels of CPY in stream water was evaluated. Toxicity of CPY was estimated on mosquito. Along with the evaluation of effects of water polluted with CPY on mosquito to predict the water pollution levels. Results showed that LC95 of CPY was 6331.30 mg/kg after 24hr and increased to 230506.4 ppm after 48hr of exposure. It was noted that the activity of CPY is concentration and time dependent. The 0.09 ppm concentration of CPY (the amount that was found in the stream water) had no effect on the second instar Culex larvae similar to the control (tap water). There is no effect after 72,96h of exposure of the population to the detected insecticide. It could be concluded that mosquito is not a bioindicator of CPY pollution at the detected level in stream water.

Nutritional Care for Patients with Ebola Virus Disease in Ebola Treatment Units – Past and Current Experiences from Practitioners

Nov 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-3083

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.

Obesity Management Open Access

Interaction Between Ator and Fennel in the Treatment of Obesity in Rats

Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-450X.jom-19-2852

Obesity can be defined as a condition of abnormal or excess fat accumulation in adipose tissue, to the extent that health may be impaired. Fennel is one of the oldest spice plants which widely grows in arid and semi-arid and due to its economic importance and pharmaceutical industry usage. This plant has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect and is effective in gastrointestinal disorder treatment. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the phytochemical characteristics and therapeutic properties of this medicinal plant. The current study demonstrates that the alteration induced by high fat diet causing changes in blood parameters. These changes are exhibited through a decrease in RBCs, Ht, Hb and platelet and these changes could be due to oxidative stress, which lead to lipid peroxidation in RBCs membranes, auto oxidation of hemoglobin. As regards the total WBCs, lymphocytes and monocytes showed marked decrease. While a distinct increase in the percentage of neutrophils and eosinophil. The present, demonstrates that rats treated with (fennel), (ator) and (fennel with ator) exposure provided significant protection to the altered hematological variables. The effect of the treatment with fennel and ator more effect than fennel only and ator only. The finding of this study indicates that the concentration of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Myeloperoxidase (MPO) in liver homogenates of the fennel and ator group significant decrease than group (3) and group (4) and the obese group. There is a growing awareness that obesity is a prime risk factor for the development of dyslipidemia profile and that oxidative stress may play a role in various adverse effects of obesity.

Retracted: Impact of Chlorpyrifos on Mosquito Larvae as Bioindicator in El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt.

Oct 2019

Pesticides are the major source of concern as water pollutants. Persistent organochlorines can accumulate in food chains. Chlorpyrifos (O,O -diethyl O -(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl) phosphorothioate; CAS No. 2921-88-2; CPY). CPY is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide that is available in a granular formulation for treatment in soil. Pesticides are used to control a wide range of pests including Mosquitoes. Mosquito borne diseases infect millions of people every year globally. The aim of current study was to screen the fresh water pollutants, water quality parameter in irrigation water from El Mahmodia stream, El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt and to determine the adverse effects of Chlorpyrifos on the larvae of Culex mosquito larvae as bio-indicator. The LC95 of Chloropyrifos insecticide was 6331.30 at 24h and increased to 230506.4 after 48h of exposure to the Chloropyrifos insecticide. It is noted that the effect of the exposure time of Chloropyrifos insecticide on the LC50, LC25 and LC95 values had a synergistic interaction with time, as it increased after 48h of exposure when compared to 24 h of exposure. The 0.09 ppm concentration of Chloropyrifos had no effect on the second instar Culex larvae, as there is no mortality over time; the same result is also with the control 0 ppm. There is no effect after 72, 96h of exposure of the population to the detected insecticide. This study concerns with studying the pollutants along El Mahmodia stream in El Beheira governorate in Abo Homs city with its abundance during the four seasons (2016-2017), as well as studding the physicochemical parameters in it. Another concern of this study is estimating the effect of one of this pesticides (Chloropyrifos) insecticide on the second instar Culex mosquito larvae, determining the lethal concentration of this insecticide on the Culex larvae. Along the study area, pesticides are used within a high ratio on the agriculture scale with its four main categories organophosphates, organochlorine, pyrthoid and carbamates. Organophosphates and organochlorine are used at a wide range. Pollutants measuring achieved by using GC-MS as water samples collected seasonally and analyzed, there is a big number of Pollutants which was found as well as other compounds which are banned, such as DDT. The physicochemical parameters Turbidity, COD, BOD in El Mahmodia stream exceeded the desirable limits of (Egyptian Law 48/1982), (WHO, 1993) and (FAO, 1985) although the other parameters as EC, PH, DO,TDS TSS are to be within the permeable limits. HCO3, NH4. Cu also was found to exceed the desirable limits while, Pb, Mn, Fe and Cd within the permeable limits. Chloropyrfos as an organophosphate pesticide used in the present study which was found with 0.09 mg/l in the stream water, used to estimate its effect on the Culex mortality, determining LC25, LC50 and LC95. The experiment continued for 96 h but after 48 h there is no effect of Chloropyrfos on Culex larvae. The experiment began with 20 second instar Culex larvae immersed in 100 ppm, 10 ppm, 1 ppm, 0.1 ppm and finally 0.09 ppm of Chloropyrfos insecticide with five repeats to each concentration, it is noted that the lethal concentration increase after 48h of experiment, the larval mortality decrease with time.

Evaluation of Anti-Aging Activity of the Biofield Energy Treated Novel Test Formulation Using SIRT1 and Telomerase Activity in in Vitro Model

Sep 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-19-2994

Telomerase and SIRT1 (member of the sirtuin protein family) along with the lifestyle and diet are the major determinants of aging and its associated diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The study objective was to investigate the effect of Consciousness Energy Healing based novel test formulation in pre-adipocytes (3T3-L1) and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for anti-aging activity using SIRT1 and telomerase assay. The test formulation was divided into two parts. One portion was denoted as the untreated test item without any Biofield Energy Treatment, while the other portion was defined as the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment, which received the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The cell viability using MTT assay showed that the cell viability of 3T3-L1 and PBMCs cells was more than 70% indicating a safe and nontoxic profile. The experimental data in PBMCs cells showed that the Biofield Energy Treated Test formulation showed a significant improved telomerase activity by 39.25%, 20.86%, and 17.95% at concentrations 0.01, 5, and 100 µg/mL, respectively as compared with the untreated test formulation group. These results indicate that the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment would be the significant approach to prevent aging-related disorders such as decline cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, dementia, osteoarthritis, Alzheimer’s, hypertension, cancer, Parkinson's Disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Stress, Asthma, cataract, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), hearing loss and metabolic disorders.

Concordance of Stress Among Married Couples in Urban Area of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India

Jun 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-19-2825

Background Concordance or husband wife agreement on various factors like sleep, substance use, dietary supplement use, and diseases like obesity and hypertension has been extensively studied worldwide. But the data regarding concordance of stress among married couples in India is lacking. Objective The prime objective of this study was to find out proportion of concordance of stress among married couples in Nagpur, Central India. Methods This was a community based cross sectional study conducted in an urban area of Nagpur. 260 couples in whom both husband and wife were of the age 30 years or more were included. Stress among couples was assessed by Presumptive stressful life events scale (PSLES). Results 82.3% concordance of stress was observed. Getting married, birth of daughter, death of close family member, illness of family member, gain of new family member and going on pleasure trip or pilgrimage were most common events reported by both spouses. Pregnancy of wife was the most common event reported by husbands. Four husbands reported death of spouse as a life event. None of the spouses reported extra marital relation of spouse and conflict over dowry as life time events. Conclusions Concordance of stress was very high among couples. This suggests role of shared marital environmental factors, which could affect stress concordance among couples.

Zoological Research Open Access

Effect of Graded Levels of Spirulina (Arthropsira platensis) on Feed Intake and in vivo Digestibility of Trypsacum laxum in Guinea Pig (Cavia Porcellus L)

Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-19-2695

The intake and in vivo digestibility of Trypsacumlaxum in guinea pigs according to the graded level of spirulina was evaluated in Cameroon. 20 animals aged of 6 months with an average weight of 450 ± 50 g were randomly divided into 4 equivalent groups. Each group received T. laxum and 40g of compound feed containing 0% (TS0), 2% (TS2), 4% (TS4), and 6% (TS6) of spirulina. Feed intake was the different between the left over and the quantity served. The sample of T. laxum and those of each diet as well as feces were collected and analyzed for the apparent digestibility of each nutrient. Animals were weighed at the beginning and at the end of each period of the test to determine the body weight gain. This study showed that the average daily intake of dry matter (DM) for TS0, TS2, TS4 and TS6 was 74.39 ± 2.98, 78.66 ± 3.14, 83.89 ± 4.28 and 77.76 ± 4.40 g/head/day. The highest apparent digestibility coefficients of different nutrients were obtained with animals fed TS6 group while the lowest were observed in TS0.The apparent digestibility coefficient of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP) of the supplemented group were statistically higher than those of the control diet. Animals’ weight performances were statistically comparable between treatments. Thus, the combination of T. laxum with concentrated feed containing spirulina can be recommended for guinea-pigs, but the level of incorporation may not exceed 4% of its daily ration.

Improving Vegetable Diversity and Micronutrient Intake of Nigerians Through Consumption of Lesser Known Silk Cotton (Ceiba pentandra) Leaf

Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2646

The potential of Nigerian indigenous tree leaves as vegetable source, pharmaceuticals and other therapeutic materials have been reported. However, Silk cotton (Ceiba pentandra) leaf is still underutilised as vegetable in parts of Nigeria where it exists despite its potential great health benefits. The aim of the study was to assess the micronutrient and phytochemical potential contribution to nutrient intake of its consumers, and acceptability of its cooked soup and sauce ‘as consumed’. Fresh young shoots and leaves of Ceiba pentandra were harvested from Ihitte/Uboma in Imo State, Nigeria. Composite sample of the leaf was prepared and divided into four portions. One portion was labelled as raw sample, and others blanched, cooked to soup and sauce. The four samples were analysed for proximate, minerals, vitamins and phytochemical composition using standard methods of AOAC. Sensory evaluation of soup and sauce was carried out using 9-point hedonic scale with 30 untrained panelists. Data were analysed using ANOVA at p<0.05 Raw Ceiba pentandraleaf contained 80.9g moisture, 3.9g protein, 0.8g fat, 15.3g carbohydrate, 68.40 kcal gross energy, 183.40mg potassium, 119.38mg calcium, 112.99mg phosphorus, and 3.46mg iron/100g sample. The leaf was rich in phytochemicals such as saponins, flavonoid and alkaloids. Raw sample was highest in water-soluble vitamins while the sauce was highest in β-carotene (339.72µg/100g). Cooking the leaf to soup and sauce significantly increased the mineral content of the products (P<0.05) with reduction in water-soluble vitamins and phytochemicals (P<0.05). The sensory attributes of the soup and sauce were generally acceptable to the panelists, with the sauce being more acceptable. The leaf and its products were rich in essential minerals, vitamins and phytochemicals. The sauce retained more nutrients compared to other samples. Inclusion of this underutilised vegetable in diets will reduce micronutrient malnutrition, promote dietary diversity, good health and wellness.

Oregano (Origanium Vulgare) Extract for Food Preservation and Improving Gastrointestinal Health

Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2703

The Mediterranean diet has long been known to provide a variety of health benefits including cardiovascular protection, cancer prevention, and lowering gastrointestinal inflammation. Oregano (Origanium vulgare) is an herb prominent in the Mediterranean diet, and has been shown to possess several bioactive properties including anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties of oregano also make it a strong candidate as a natural food preservative. Because of the recent public concern with synthetic food preservatives, natural alternatives are increasingly being evaluated for effective food preservation. Oregano extract (OE) and essential oil (OEO) are two such agents that have shown promise as natural food preservatives. Additionally, oregano is being evaluated for its positive effect on gastrointestinal health, suggesting an additional benefit of food preservation with oregano. This review will describe in vitro studies related to the anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties of oregano along with food preservation studies with oregano in various model food matrices. The major phytochemical content reported for OE and OEO will also be outlined to highlight the importance of characterizing the extract that is used, since the extraction process can have a significant effect on the phytochemicals therein. Finally, in vivo studies that investigate the gastrointestinal health benefits of oregano, specifically against inflammation, will be addressed to describe the role of oregano on gastrointestinal health.

Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Oxidative Stress and Thyroid Functions.

Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4526.jddd-19-2683

Ramadan fasting might be beneficial for digestive health, if appetite control and balanced diet is achieved. In this study we aimed to evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on thyroid glands and some biochemical parameters in Turkish people living in Yozgat region. A total of 40 healthy subjects (20 men and 20 women) aged between 21-50 years were randomly recruited. Thyroid nodule volumes, thyroid hormones, body weights, glucose, total Cholesterol (TC), and oxidant stress index (OSI) were measured before Ramadan and at the end of Ramadan. There were beneficial changes in blood parameters and thyroid volumes, after one month of fasting during Ramadan compared with baseline. The Ramadan fasting might affect the radiological and biochemical parameters in healthy Turkish subjects. To improve the favorable digestive health in Ramadan fasting, diet and lifestyle modifications such as, increased intake of healthy foods and physical exercises might be recommended.

Developing Cellular & Molecular Biomarkers for Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Probiotic Bacteria in Fermented Foods

Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2578

We present below a mechanistic cellular and molecular approaches for the development of Anti-Inflammatory biomarkersof Probiotic Bacteria in Fermented Foods. Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote human health by counteracting the noxious toxic gut microflora in human intestine, by modulating of the tight junctions, and by increasing mucin production, enforcing intestinal epithelial cell barrier function, modifying microbial community within the gut intestinal disorders, and improving immune responses associated with chronic inflammation in experimental animal models, collectively enhancing human health. Cytokine secretion by intestinal epithelial cells and macrophages are regulated by probiotics through key signaling pathways such as nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated kinases, resulting in alleviation of several disorders such as allergies, diabetes, obesity, heart diseases and cancer. MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules involved in transcriptional and post-translational regulation of gene expression by inhibiting gene translation. Using in vitro and in vivo approaches in cell lines and mice models to study effects of probiotic conditional media and heat-killed bacterial strains with anti-inflammatory effect to elucidate the mechanisms by which probiotics affect signaling pathways, and by using global cytokine and microRNA gene expression analyses approaches to develop biomarkers for studying different pro- and anti-inflammatory activities, and using statistical approaches to analyse the data, we show that cytokines and miRNAs have an essential role in regulation of cancerous and inflammatory pathways. This mechanistic approach will result in developing specific disease biomarkers for the early diagnosis of certain pathogenic states, as well as evaluating the effect of different dietary components on developed biomarkers in health states that will promote and enhance human health. Comparing the concordance of the in vitro to the in vivo research findings will confirm the correspondence of both approaches to each other. Moreover, this study will have a major public health relevance in elucidating the role of miRNAs and their targets in inflammation, paving the way to diagnosing and treating of pathogenic human disease stages.

To Activate the Brain, Activate the Body First

Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2578-8590.ipj-19-2679

The brain is the most complex organ which governs almost all activities in human body. Thus, the mental fitness has high level of importance in every day workouts. The good activities for long-term brain health include performing regular exercises such as a simple walking for 10 min at each day. More importantly having good level of diet can keep the brain workouts in an ideal situation. Indeed, taking enough rest can enhance the brain performances. Listening to the desirable sound of music could also enhance concentration and improve the mood. In overall, these aforementioned life style modifications significantly can easily boost the brain power and its healthy function through different aspects in daily life.

Trigonella Foenum Graecum Extract Benefits on Hematological, Biochemical and Male Reproductive System as a Complementary Therapy with Glimepiride in Treating Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats

Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2374-9431.jbd-19-2613

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder. Streptozotocin is a naturally occurring cytotoxic chemical, particularly toxic to the pancreas and insulin producing beta cells in mammals and induces diabetes. Glimepiride is a second generation sulfonylurea, used as second-line or add-on treatment options for type 2 diabetes. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seeds have been documented as a traditional plant treatment for diabetes. Soluble dietary fiber of Fenugreek significantly improved oral glucose tolerance in diabetic rats. It also exerts anti-diabetic effects mediated through the inhibition of carbohydrate digestion and absorption and the enhancement of peripheral insulin action.  Most herbal remedies can interact with allopathic drugs resulting in altered activity and toxicity. At the same time, herbal remedies might produce the same kind of effects as the drug produce. Current published research information on herb-drug interactions is scanty. So, the aim of this study was to investigate the possible interaction between conventional drug used for the management of diabetes; (Glimepiride) and a traditional herbal remedy; Fenugreek aqueous extract in Streptozotocin induced diabetic male albino rats. In conclusion, combination therapy induces better hematological, biochemical effects and improves the oxidative stress biomarkers and antioxidant enzymes. Histological studies showed better results on some organ functions. The results emphasize the benefit of using the combination of Fenugreek seeds aqueous extracts as supportive complementary anti-diabetic therapy.

Functional Food

Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2615

The notion that foods have health promotion effects beyond their nutritional value has been increasingly accepted in recent years, and the specific effects of nutrition prevention on disease have led to the discovery of functional foods. Functional foods are products that contain various biologically active compounds and which, consumed in a current diet, contribute to maintaining the optimal state of physical, mental and mental health of the population. Functional foods are consumed in the normal diet and contain biologically active compounds with potential to improve health or to reduce the risk of disease. The objectives of this review are to highlight the strengths of functional foods.

The Effects of Zanzalacht on the Gonotrophic cycle of the Adult House fly Musca Domestica

Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-19-2586

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.

Recovery Time from Severe Acute Malnutrition and Development of Complementary Food Supplement For Affected Ethiopian Children

Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2599

Background: Severe acute mal nutrition (SAM) among children still remains the major problem in Ethiopia. The shortening of the SAM recovery time by applying appropriate dietary means during treatment and also after recovery, can save huge sums of public health spending. Objectives: Determining the recovery time of SAM affected children and developing complementary food supplement (CFS). Methods: Hospital based retrospective cohort study was carried out on 401 SAM affected children. A structured and pre tested data abstraction form was used for data collection. The data were entered into Epi info and exported to SPSS for analysis. All of the nutritional properties of the developed product in three different ratios of the flours of maize, soybean and powder of moringaolifera leaves were assessed and compared to the control (100% maize). Results: The median recovery time was 16 days. There was a significant increase in protein, mineral and beta carotene content with increasing level of Moringaolifera leaf powder in the CFS. Conclusion: To increase the rate of recovery from sever acute malnutrition and also to prevent relapsing, moringa incorporated cheaper complementary fod supplements could be recommended for SAM affected children.

Obesity Management Open Access

Beneficial Effects of Fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare) in Treating Obesity in Rats

Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-450X.jom-18-2484

Obesity is associated with a number of serious medical complications, which are often referred to as the “insulin resistance syndrome”. The aim of the present study was performed to investigate the possible interaction between a conventional drug used for management of cholesterol and traditional herbal remedies on the obesity. This was carried through out: through estimation of blood test; Estimation of serum tests; Determination of oxidative stress biomarkers and the antioxidant enzymes activities in the liver were assayed; Histopathological examination of the liver and kidney of adult male albino rats were done. In the present study, the serum levels of the total protein and albumin in the obesity group (7.1± 0.2) and (4.78 ± 0.19); respectively were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) more than those of the control group (6.5±0.1) and (3.95± 0.1).The administration of (fennel group) revealed significant (P<0.05) decrease in the serum levels of the albumin and total protein (4.38± 0.1) and (6.65± 0.2); respectively as compared to the obesity group (4.78 ± 0.19) and (7.1± 0.2(. The total cholesterol of the group(5) (fennel and ator) after two weeks from a high fat diet than treatment with fennel and Ator through six weeks equal 142.86±5.9, 100.4±8.68, 93.29±5.99, 87.1±11.28, 80.4±21.55, 78.1±6.7 and 77.1±6.87; respectively. The present study showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in the activities of ALT, AST and ALP in the obesity group which recorded as (60.5±11.45), (57.25±6.3) and (845.0±49.47); respectively as compared to the control group (28.25±1.7), (38.5±3.87) and (537.0±41.5); respectively. The fennel group caused significant decrease in the activities of these enzymes (41.0± 2.9), (42.25+3.2) and (717.75+48.6); respectively compared to the obesity group. Ator group showed a significant decrease in the activities of these enzymes (40.0±2.16), (42.5±3.1) and (679.25±41.16); respectively compared as obesity group. The activity of AlT, AST and ALP in the fennel and ator group (32.75±2.5), (40.5±2.38) and (601.25±17.5); respectively were near to the control group.

Evaluation of Serum Vitamin D Levels in Foster's Children Care Center

Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-18-2456

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.

Zoological Research Open Access

Physiological Features of Pennisetum Purpureum or Panicum Maximum Consumption in Guinea Pigs (Cavia Porcellus)

Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-18-2474

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.

Effect of Replacement of Fishmeal With Lima Bean Meal on the Zootechnical Performances of African Catfish (Clarias Gariepinus) in the Batié Sub-Division, West Region of Cameroun

Nov 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-18-2463

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the substitution of fishmeal by Lima bean flouron the growth performance, survival rate and feed cost of Clariasgariepinusbetween March and May 2018 within the AIO ICG of the Batié District. It also aimed to contribute to the development of alternative sources of animal protein on a global scale. For this purpose, 300 fry of Clariasgariepinuswith an average weight of 3 ± 1.41g were divided into five batches and fed three times a day with rations corresponding to 5% of their ichthyobiomass. The rations R0, R25 R50, R75 and R100 respectively corresponded to the substitution rates of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% of fish meal by that of Lima bean. The physic-chemical characteristics of the water (pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, nitrites and nitrates) were measured daily. The following results were obtained: The highest weight gains were obtained with the rations R25 (20.56 ± 0.40 g), R50 (20.64 ± 0.32 g), R75 (20.98 ± 0.46 g) and the lowest with the rations of R100 (16.21 ± 0.28 g). The highest average daily gain were 0.36 ± 0.02 g; 0.37 ± 0.01 g ; 0.38 ± 0.01 g respectively for the R0, R50 and R75 rations and the lowest with R100 (0.29 ± 0.01 g). The highest value of the specific growth rate (2.47 ± 0.07%) was obtained with the ration R0 and the lowest (1.61%) with the ration R100. The consumption index reached its highest and lowest values with the rations R100 (4.74 ± 0.42) and R50 (3.57 ± 0.43) respectively, compared to the value of the ration R0 (3.31 ± 0.37) for this parameter. Concerning the condition factor K, the highest value was recorded with the R50 diet (1.11 ± 0.49) while the lowest value was obtained with the R75 diet (0.95 ± 0.45). The cost of producing one kilogram of food was higher with the R25 ration (504.59 FCFA) and lower with the R100 ration (443.20 FCFA). Our results revealed that incorporating 75% Lima bean flour into the feed increases the growth performance of Clariasgariepinus fry and reduces the cost of food production.  

Need of Nutraceuticals / Functional Food Products for Health Benefits to World-Wide People

Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-18-2408

Improved economic and developed people with their lifestyle have created many challenges of health issues (obesity, osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes, allergies and dental problems), due to selection of different food habits (such as consumption of manifold junk foods). It has created number of health problem (development of many diseases) related to nutritional deficiencies food. Nowadays, people have developed the habit for shifting of synthetic food ingredients to organic foods and ingredients, obtained from natural sources. In this regards, nutraceuticals food or its food products can perform important role in controlling the diseases via fulfilling all the health benefits to many people at worldwide. Incredible dietary supplements as nutraceuticals food (involvement in nutritional, immunologic and physiological functions) can help in prevention or treatment of many diseases (mitigating of gastrointestinal (GI) tract problem), as it is synthesized from raw herbals and lots of rapidly growing industries are reported to synthesize these natural products. And around 100 million people are found to take these products (power of plant based materials) for getting health benefits. It can work as drugs as health benefit of nutraceuticals via regulation/ control for diseases. Global nutraceuticals market had been valued for US$ 165.62 billion in 2014 and it would be grow the value of US$ 278.96 billion by 2021 with compound annual growth rate of 7.3%. This proposed paper will discuss the different types of nutraceuticals food or its functional components involved in prevention or treatment of diseases.

Managing Overweight and Obesity in Ghana from a Cultural Lens: The Complementary Role of Behaviour Modification

May 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-18-2059

Extant epidemiological and social diagnosis information shows an alarming upsurge in the prevalence of overweight and obesity over the last decade in developing countries including Ghana. Despite literature on the dangers and associated risk factors of these two health related constructs is well-written and documented, there seems to be a distinct knowledge gap on cultural influences that may trigger the onset of overweight and obesity, and related comorbidities. This review paper provides a general overview on overweight and obesity, and presents a supportive evidence of their rising prevalence as well as associated overall implications on public health in Ghana. Additionally, the paper explores how indigenous cultural perceptions, beliefs and norms impact on dietary and physical activity behaviours of the people. Based on available evidence, the complementary role of behaviour modification towards the management of overweight and obesity is suggested. The PEN-3 model as an appropriate cultural framework is proposed for future empirical investigations. This would afford programme planners to assess how to design culturally underpinned appropriate intervention programmes that would positively influence long term behavioural practices of the local people.  

Trace Elements Measurement In Apricot (Prunus ArmeniacaL.) Seeds By Neutron Activation Analysis

Mar 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-18-1944

Plant food are main sources of elements in human nutrition diet and required for proper growth and body development. Present study involved analyzing the elemental profile attributes of apricot seeds in order to obtain a global pattern of apricot seeds. Trace element in seed of 8 apricot cultivars grown in Syria have been determined using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA). Total of 28 elements namely Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Chlorine (Cl), Sodium (Na), Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Aluminum (Al), Manganese (Mn), Rubidium (Rb), Iodine (I), Bromine (Br), Cobalt (Co), Antimony (Sb), Molybdenum (Mo), Chromium (Cr), Mercury (Hg), Barium (Ba), Cadmium (Cd), Cerium (Ce), Lanthanum (La), Selenium (Se), Samarium (Sm), Strontium (Sr), Titanium (Ti), Uranium (U) and Vanadium (V) were determined. The elements present in the apricot seed samples were in the range of levels reported in the literature. The results show that the seed of apricot cultivars grown in Syria is rich in the essential macro and micro-nutrients that are of important in dietary point of view.

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