Zinc deficiency associated with anaemia among young children in rural Guatemala.

One in four children younger than age five in Guatemala experiences anaemia (haemoglobin <11.0 g/dl). This study characterized the factors and micronutrient deficiencies associated with anaemia in a baseline cross-sectional sample of 182 Guatemalan infants/toddlers and 207 preschoolers, using generalized linear mixed models. Associations between anaemia and maternal, child and household variables, and biomarkers (soluble transferrin receptor, ferritin, zinc, folate, vitamin B12, C-reactive protein, and α1-acid glycoprotein) were explored. Rates of anaemia were 56% among infants/toddlers and 12.1% among preschoolers. In children with anaemia, rates of iron deficiency (low ferritin based on inflammation status, and/or high soluble transferrin receptor, ≥1.97 mg/L) and zinc deficiency (serum zinc <65 µg/dl) were 81.1% and 53.7%, respectively. Folate deficiency (either plasma folate <3 ng/ml or erythrocyte folate <100 ng/ml) was 3.3%. Vitamin B12 deficiency (plasma vitamin B12 <148 pmol/L) was 7.5%. For infants and toddlers (<24 months), the odds ratio of anaemia was lower when higher number of adults lived in the household (OR = 0.69; 95% CI [0.53, 0.90]), and higher when children were zinc deficient (OR = 3.40; 95% CI [1.54, 7.47]). For preschoolers (36-60 months), the odds ratio of anaemia was lower for every additional month of age (OR = 0.90; 95% CI [0.81, 1.00]). Findings suggest that micronutrient deficiencies coexist in Guatemalan rural children, and zinc deficiency is associated with anaemia in children <24 months, highlighting the need of continued multidisciplinary interventions with multiple micronutrients. Further research examining how household composition, feeding practices, and accessibility to micronutrient supplements and to animal source foods is needed to incorporate strategies to improve the nutritional status of Guatemalan children.

Mechanisms linking height to early child development among infants and preschoolers in rural India.

Stunting has been negatively associated with children's development. We examined the range of height by testing hypotheses: (a) height is positively associated with children's development, with associations moderated by inflammation and (b) home environments characterized by nurturance and early learning opportunities is positively associated with children's development over time and attenuate associations with height. Data included 513 infants (mean age 8.6 months) and 316 preschoolers (mean age 36.6 months) in rural India from a randomized controlled trial of multiple micronutrient powders (MNPs). Measures included height (height-for-age z-scores based on WHO standards), inflammation (C-reactive protein concentration >5 mg/L), nurturance (HOME Inventory), child development (Mullens Scales of Early Learning), and inhibitory control (preschoolers). Linear mixed effects models accounting for repeated measures, clustering, and confounders were used to assess associations between height and child development over time (infants: enrollment, 6 and 12 months; preschoolers: enrollment and 8 months). Moderating effects of inflammation and nurturance were tested with interaction terms. Among infants and preschoolers, height and nurturance were positively associated with all domains of child development over time, with the exception of inhibitory control. Among preschoolers, in the presence of inflammation, height was not associated with child development. Among infants, but not preschoolers, a nurturant home environment attenuated significant associations between height with fine motor and receptive language development. The mechanisms associated with children's development over time are multifactorial and include direct and indirect associations among nutrition, health, and the home environment, as supported by the Nurturing Care Framework.

Consumption of a Double-Fortified Salt Affects Perceptual, Attentional, and Mnemonic Functioning in Women in a Randomized Controlled Trial in India.

Background: Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia have been shown to have negative effects on aspects of perception, attention, and memory.Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to assess the extent to which increases in dietary iron consumption are related to improvements in behavioral measures of perceptual, attentional, and mnemonic function.Methods: Women were selected from a randomized, double-blind, controlled food-fortification trial involving ad libitum consumption of either a double-fortified salt (DFS) containing 47 mg potassium iodate/kg and 3.3 mg microencapsulated ferrous fumarate/g (1.1 mg elemental Fe/g) or a control iodized salt. Participants' blood iron status (primary outcomes) and cognitive functioning (secondary outcomes) were assessed at baseline and after 10 mo at endline. The study was performed on a tea plantation in the Darjeeling district of India. Participants (n = 126; 66% iron deficient and 49% anemic at baseline) were otherwise healthy women of reproductive age, 18-55 y.Results: Significant improvements were documented for iron status and for perceptual, attentional, and mnemonic function in the DFS group (percentage of variance accounted for: 16.5%) compared with the control group. In addition, the amount of change in perceptual and cognitive performance was significantly (P < 0.05) related to the amount of change in blood iron markers (mean percentage of variance accounted for: 16.0%) and baseline concentrations of blood iron markers (mean percentage of variance accounted for: 25.0%). Overall, there was evidence that the strongest effects of change in iron status were obtained for perceptual and low-level attentional function.Conclusion: DFS produced measurable and significant improvements in the perceptual, attentional, and mnemonic performance of Indian female tea pickers of reproductive age. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01032005.

Impact of preconceptional micronutrient supplementation on maternal mental health during pregnancy and postpartum: results from a randomized controlled trial in Vietnam.

BACKGROUND: Micronutrient malnutrition has been associated with maternal depressive symptoms (MDS), but little is known about the effects of preconceptional micronutrient supplementation. This paper examined the effects of preconceptional micronutrient supplementation on MDS during pregnancy and postpartum. METHODS: We used data from a double-blind controlled trial (PRECONCEPT) in which 5011 Vietnamese women were randomized to receive weekly supplements containing either a) multiple micronutrients (MM) b) iron and folic acid (IFA) or c) folic acid (FA) until conception (n = 1813). Maternal mental health was assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) at baseline (preconception), and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) during pregnancy and 3 months postpartum. Elevated MDS was defined as EPDS score ≥ 4. All group comparisons were done using ANOVA or chi-square tests of proportions intention to treat and per protocol analyses (women consumed supplements ≥26 weeks before conception). We also conducted stratified analyses by preconception CES-D scores, underweight, or anemia status using generalized linear models. RESULTS: Baseline CES-D scores were similar across treatment groups. The proportion of women experiencing elevated MDS was 11.3, 8.1 and 4.9% at first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy, respectively, and 3.6% at 3 mo postpartum. Mean EPDS scores at first (1.5 ± 2.7), second (1.1 ± 2.4), and third trimester of pregnancy (0.7 ± 2.0) and early postpartum (0.6 ± 1.8) were low and did not differ by treatment group. However, among women in the highest tertile of CES-D scores at preconception, mean EPDS scores in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy were lower in the MM and IFA groups compared to FA only (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Weekly preconceptional micronutrient supplements containing iron did not improve depression measures relative to folic acid alone among all women, but may have benefitted women who were at risk for depression. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered retrospectively at ClinicalTrials.Gov as NCT01665378 on August 13, 2012.

Neither Preconceptional Weekly Multiple Micronutrient nor Iron-Folic Acid Supplements Affect Birth Size and Gestational Age Compared with a Folic Acid Supplement Alone in Rural Vietnamese Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Maternal nutritional status before and during early pregnancy plays a critical role in fetal growth and development. The benefits of periconception folic acid (FA) supplementation in the prevention of neural tube defects is well recognized, but the evidence for preconception micronutrient interventions for improving pregnancy outcomes is limited. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate whether preconception supplementation with weekly iron and folic acid (IFA) or multiple micronutrients (MMs) improves birth outcomes compared with FA alone. METHODS: We recruited 5011 women of reproductive age in a double-blind, randomized controlled trial in Vietnam and provided weekly supplements containing either 2800 µg FA, 60 mg Fe and 2800 µg FA (IFA), or the same amount of FA and iron plus other MMs until they conceived (n = 1813). All pregnant women received daily IFA through delivery, and were followed up for birth outcomes, including birth weight, gestational age, preterm delivery and small for gestational age (SGA). Group comparisons were done with the use of ANOVA or chi-square tests for both intention-to-treat (n = 1599) and per-protocol analyses (women consumed supplements ≥26 wk before conception; n = 824). Effect modification by baseline underweight or anemia status was tested with the use of generalized linear models. RESULTS: The mean age of the women was 26 y, 30% were underweight, and <10% were nulliparous. The groups were similar for most baseline characteristics. The mean ± SD duration of the preconception intervention was 33 ± 25 wk and compliance was high (>90%). Infants born to the 3 groups of women did not differ (P ≥ 0.05) on mean ± SD birth weight (3076.8 ± 444.5 g) or gestational age (39.2 ± 2.0 wk), or prevalence of SGA (12%), low birth weight (5%) and preterm delivery (10%). There were no significant differences in women who consumed supplements ≥26 wk before conception or by baseline underweight or anemia. CONCLUSION: Weekly supplementation with MMs or IFA before conception did not affect birth outcomes compared with FA in rural Vietnamese women. The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01665378.

Double-fortified salt is efficacious in improving indicators of iron deficiency in female Indian tea pickers.

Poor iron status affects 50% of Indian women and compromises work productivity, cognitive performance, and reproduction. Among the many strategies to reduce iron deficiency is the commercial fortification of iodized table salt with iron to produce a double-fortified salt (DFS). The objective of this study was to test the efficacy of DFS in reducing iron deficiency in rural women of reproductive age from northern West Bengal, India. The participants were 212 women between 18 and 55 y of age who worked as full-time tea pickers on a large tea estate. Participants in the randomized, controlled, double-blind study were assigned to use either DFS or a control iodized salt for 7.5 to 9 mo. The DFS was fortified with 3.3-mg ferrous fumarate (1.1-mg elemental iron) per kg of iodized salt, whereas the control salt contained only iodine (47 mg/kg potassium iodate), and both salt varieties were distributed gratis to the families of participants at 0.5 kg/mo for each 2 household members. At baseline, 53% of participants were anemic (hemoglobin <120 g/L), 25% were iron deficient (serum ferritin <12 µg/L), and 23% were iron-deficient anemic. Also, 22% had a transferrin receptor concentration >8.6 mg/L and 22% had negative (<0.0 mg/kg) body iron stores. After 9 mo the participants receiving DFS showed significant improvements compared with controls in hemoglobin (+2.4 g/L), ferritin (+0.13 log10 µg/L), soluble transferrin receptor (-0.59 mg/L), and body iron (+1.43 mg/kg), with change in status analyzed by general linear models controlling for baseline values. This study demonstrated that DFS is an efficacious approach to improving iron status and should be further evaluated for effectiveness in the general population. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01032005.

Effect of supplementation with a lipid-based nutrient supplement on the micronutrient status of children aged 6-18 months living in the rural region of Intibucá, Honduras.

BACKGROUND: Lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS) have been effective in the treatment of acute malnutrition among children. We evaluated the use of LNS supplementation for improving the micronutrient status of young children. METHODS: A 12-month randomised controlled trial was conducted among children aged 6-18 months living in Intibucá, Honduras. Communities (n = 18) were randomised into clusters matched by poverty indicators (9 intervention, n = 160 and 9 controls, n = 140). Intervention participants received LNS. All children received food vouchers and nutrition education. Primary outcomes included measures of micronutrient status: at baseline, 6 and 12 months' blood were collected for assessment of folate, iron, zinc, riboflavin, and vitamin B12 status; haemoglobin was measured every 3 months; and dietary and anthropometry collected monthly. Longitudinal analyses were based on intent to treat and LNS adherence. Generalised estimating equations were used in the estimation of generalised linear regression models specified for the data. RESULTS: At 6-month follow-up, children in the intervention group had a lower proportion classified as deficient for B12 (43.6%) compared with the control (67.7%; P = 0.03). The intervention group had a higher mean concentration for folate at 6 months (P = 0.06), and improvements continued through 12 months for folate (P = 0.002) and vitamin A deficiency (P = 0.03). This pattern of results, with improved significance, remained in subanalysis based on LNS adherence. CONCLUSION: These data demonstrate that LNS improved select micronutrient status in young non-malnourished Honduran children.

The Effects of Multiple Micronutrient Fortified Beverage and Responsive Caregiving Interventions on Early Childhood Development, Hemoglobin, and Ferritin among Infants in Rural Guatemala.

Undernutrition and a lack of learning opportunities can jeopardize long-term growth and development among infants in low- and middle-income countries. We conducted a 6-month 2 × 2 cluster-randomized trial to assess the effects of multiple micronutrient-fortified beverages and responsive caregiving interventions among infants 6-18 months in 72 community sectors in southwest Guatemala. We administered baseline and endline assessments of childhood development (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development) and socioemotional development (Brief Infant Toddler Socio-Emotional Assessment) and measured ferritin and hemoglobin on a subsample. The trial was analyzed using linear mixed models. At the baseline, the mean age (SD) was 13.0 (4.6) months, including 49% males, 32% who were stunted, 55% who were anemic, and 58% who were iron deficient. At the endline (n = 328/386, 85% retention), there was no synergistic effect on the fortified beverage and responsive caregiving intervention. Compared to the non-fortified beverage group, socioemotional development improved in the fortified beverage group. There were no intervention effects on other measures of child development, hemoglobin, or ferritin. In a setting with high rates of anemia and iron deficiency, a multiple micronutrient-fortified beverage improved infants' socioemotional development.

Rationale, design, methodology and sample characteristics for the Vietnam pre-conceptual micronutrient supplementation trial (PRECONCEPT): a randomized controlled study.

BACKGROUND: Low birth weight and maternal anemia remain intractable problems in many developing countries. The adequacy of the current strategy of providing iron-folic acid (IFA) supplements only during pregnancy has been questioned given many women enter pregnancy with poor iron stores, the substantial micronutrient demand by maternal and fetal tissues, and programmatic issues related to timing and coverage of prenatal care. Weekly IFA supplementation for women of reproductive age (WRA) improves iron status and reduces the burden of anemia in the short term, but few studies have evaluated subsequent pregnancy and birth outcomes.The Preconcept trial aims to determine whether pre-pregnancy weekly IFA or multiple micronutrient (MM) supplementation will improve birth outcomes and maternal and infant iron status compared to the current practice of prenatal IFA supplementation only. This paper provides an overview of study design, methodology and sample characteristics from baseline survey data and key lessons learned. METHODS/DESIGN: We have recruited 5011 WRA in a double-blind stratified randomized controlled trial in rural Vietnam and randomly assigned them to receive weekly supplements containing either: 1) 2800 µg folic acid 2) 60 mg iron and 2800 µg folic acid or 3) MM. Women who become pregnant receive daily IFA, and are being followed through pregnancy, delivery, and up to three months post-partum. Study outcomes include birth outcomes and maternal and infant iron status. Data are being collected on household characteristics, maternal diet and mental health, anthropometry, infant feeding practices, morbidity and compliance. DISCUSSION: The study is timely and responds to the WHO Global Expert Consultation which identified the need to evaluate the long term benefits of weekly IFA and MM supplementation in WRA. Findings will generate new information to help guide policy and programs designed to reduce the burden of anemia in women and children and improve maternal and child health outcomes in resource poor settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT01665378.

Fatty acid status in early life in low-income countries--overview of the situation, policy and research priorities.

Fat intake may be low in low-income countries and little information is available on its composition in terms of (n-3) and (n-6) fatty acids (FA). As a result, long chain poly-unsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) status is a concern, especially in settings where fish intake is low and/or common sources of fat have a low alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and high linoleic acid (LA) content. High LA levels, as found for instance in sunflower, safflower, corn, peanut and soy oils, may inhibit the conversion of ALA into its LC-PUFA derivatives. Other factors that affect LA and ALA conversion into LC-PUFA, including genetic factors, are little known and should also be investigated in different populations. Different interventions that could feasibly improve LC-PUFA status in low-income countries should be tested and their effects on functional outcomes assessed, preferably starting from pregnancy. Identifying affordable sources of ALA or LC-PUFA that could be made locally available and easily introduced in the diet early in life is also a priority.

Altered fecal microbiota, IgA, and fermentative end-products in adult dogs fed prebiotics and a nonviable Lactobacillus acidophilus.

A study investigating the use of a nonviable Lactobacillus acidophilus (NVL: Culbac; TransAgra, Storm Lake, IA) and a mixed prebiotic (MP) blend (beet pulp, fructooligosaccharide (FOS), mannanoligosaccharide (MOS), inulin, and kelp) was done to evaluate changes in fecal microbiota, fermentative end products, and gut immune health in healthy female and male adult Beagle dogs (n = 24; 5.74 ± 2.18 yr; 9.30 ± 1.32 kg). The study protocol was first approved by the facility's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (Summit Ridge Farms; Susquehanna, PA) and followed throughout. Each of four test diets (control, NVL, MP, and MP + NVL [formulated to crude protein 25%, crude fat 14%, crude fiber 10% as-fed]) was fed once daily to maintain body weight for 21 d in a randomized-crossover design (four treatment periods and four washout periods). Fecal samples were collected on days 0 and 21 only for immunoglobulin A (IgA) and microbiota evaluation (16S rRNA V4 region and qPCR for Escherichia coli and Bifidobacterium), and fecal fermentative end-products and fecal pH were assessed only on day 21. Over the test periods, apparent total tract nutrient digestibility and stool quality were assessed. Data were analyzed by ANOVA (SAS v9.4, Cary, NC) or Kruskal-Wallis for between-diet effects, and paired t-test or Wilcoxon for time effects. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05. Apparent total tract nutrient digestibility revealed feeding MP-containing diets resulted in lower (P < 0.05) crude protein and fat digestibility vs. control and NVL diets. When dogs were fed MP, they had lower (P < 0.05) fecal pH compared with control and NVL diets, whereas fecal pH was lower in (P < 0.05) MP + NVL- vs. NVL-fed dogs. Fecal E. coli was (P < 0.05) lower at day 21 vs. day 0 when dogs were fed MP. Fecal Fusobacterium spp. was lower (P < 0.05) in both MP diets vs. control. Fecal Lactobacillus spp. increased (P < 0.05) from baseline with MP. Both diets with MP elicited greater (P < 0.05) fecal acetate and propionate concentration vs. control diet. At day 21, fecal IgA was greater (P < 0.05) in MP and MP + NVL compared with NVL diet. Only when dogs were fed MP did they have increased (P < 0.05) fecal IgA from day 21 vs. day 0. The MP + NVL diet decreased (P < 0.05) fecal isovalerate, isobutyrate, phenol, and indole vs. control. Overall, the MP elicited the most changes on microbiota, fermentative end-products, and IgA. Further investigation into NVL's gut health benefits is warranted.

Comparison of two forms of daily preventive zinc supplementation versus therapeutic zinc supplementation for diarrhea on young children's physical growth and risk of infection: study design and rationale for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Zinc is an essential nutrient that is required for children's normal growth and resistance to infections, including diarrhea and pneumonia, two major causes of child mortality. Daily or weekly preventive zinc supplementation has been shown to improve growth and reduce the risk of infection, while therapeutic zinc supplementation for 10-14 days is recommended for the treatment of diarrhea. The overall objective of the present study is to compare several regimens for delivering zinc to young children, both for the prevention of zinc deficiency and the treatment of diarrhea. METHODS: The present study is a community-based, randomized controlled trial in the Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR). Three thousand, four hundred children 6-23 months of age will be randomized to one of four intervention groups (daily preventive zinc dispersible tablet, daily preventive multiple micronutrient powder, therapeutic zinc dispersible tablet for diarrhea, or placebo control); interventions will be delivered for 9 months and outcomes measured at pre-determined intervals. Primary outcomes include physical growth (length and weight), diarrhea incidence, hemoglobin and micronutrient status, and innate and adaptive immune function. Secondary outcomes include mid-upper-arm circumference, neuro-behavioral development, hair cortisol concentrations, markers of intestinal inflammation and parasite burden. Incidence of adverse events and the modifying effects of inherited hemoglobin disorders and iron status on the response to the intervention will also be examined. We will estimate unadjusted effects and effects adjusted for selected baseline covariates using ANCOVA. DISCUSSION: Many countries are now rolling out large-scale programs to include therapeutic zinc supplementation in the treatment of childhood diarrhea, but few have established programs demonstrated to be effective in the prevention of zinc deficiency. This study will address how best to deliver supplemental zinc to prevent zinc deficiency and reduce the severity of diarrhea-related health complications. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Trial registration identifier (NCT02428647) ; Date of registration: April 29, 2015.

Impact of Preconception Micronutrient Supplementation on Anemia and Iron Status during Pregnancy and Postpartum: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Rural Vietnam.

OBJECTIVE: Preconception micronutrient interventions may be a promising approach to reduce anemia and iron deficiency during pregnancy, but currently we have limited data to inform policies. We evaluated whether providing additional pre-pregnancy weekly iron-folic acid (IFA) or multiple micronutrient (MM) supplements compared to only folic acid (FA) improves iron status and anemia during pregnancy and early postpartum. METHODS: We conducted a double blind randomized controlled trial in which 5011 Vietnamese women were provided with weekly supplements containing either only 2800 µg FA (control group), IFA (60 mg Fe and 2800 µg FA) or MM (15 micronutrients with similar amounts of IFA). All women who became pregnant (n = 1813) in each of the 3 groups received daily IFA (60 mg Fe and 400 µg FA) through delivery. Hematological indicators were assessed at baseline (pre-pregnancy), during pregnancy, 3 months post-partum, and in cord blood. Adjusted generalized linear models were applied to examine the impact of preconception supplementation on anemia and iron stores, using both intention to treat and per protocol analyses (women consumed supplements ≥ 26 weeks before conception). RESULTS: At baseline, 20% of women were anemic, but only 14% had low iron stores (ferritin <30 µg/L) and 3% had iron deficiency (ferritin <12 µg/L). The groups were balanced for baseline characteristics. Anemia prevalence increased during pregnancy and post-partum but was similar among intervention groups. In intention to treat analyses, prenatal ferritin was significantly higher among women receiving MM (geometric mean (µg/L) [95% CI]: 93.6 [89.3-98.2]) and IFA (91.9 [87.6-96.3]) compared to control (85.3 [81.5-89.2]). In per protocol analyses, women receiving MM or IFA had higher ferritin 3 months postpartum (MM 118.2 [109.3-127.8]), IFA 117.8 [108.7-127.7] vs control 101.5 [94.0-109.7]) and gave birth to infants with greater iron stores (MM 184.3 [176.1-192.9]), IFA 189.9 [181.6-198.3] vs control 175.1 [167.9-182.6]). CONCLUSION: Preconception supplementation with MM or IFA resulted in modest increases in maternal and infant iron stores but did not impact anemia. Further research is needed to characterize the etiology of anemia in this population and identify effective interventions for reducing prenatal anemia. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT01665378.

Influence of dietary calcium and phosphorus content in a fixed ratio on growth and development in Great Danes.

OBJECTIVE: To study the musculoskeletal development of Great Dane puppies fed various dietary concentrations of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) in fixed ratio by use of dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), determination of serum insulin-like growth factor 1 and parathyroid hormone concentrations, radiography, and blood chemistry analysis results. ANIMALS: 32 purebred Great Dane puppies from 4 litters. PROCEDURE: At weaning, puppies were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 diets. Blood was collected for biochemical analyses and hormone assays, and radiography and DEXA were performed through 18 months of age. Changes in body weight, bone mineral content, fat tissue weight, lean mass, result of serum biochemical analyses, hormonal concentrations, and radius lengths were analyzed through 18 months of age. RESULTS: Bone mineral content of puppies correlated positively with Ca and P content of the diets fed. Significant differences between groups in bone mineral content, lean mass, and body fat were apparent early. The disparity among groups increased until 6 months of age and then declined until body composition was no longer different at 12 months of age. Accretion rates for skeletal mineral content, fat, and lean tissue differed from each other and by diet group. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ca and P concentrations in the diet of young Great Dane puppies are rapidly reflected in the bone mineral content of the puppies until 5 to 6 months of age, after which hormonal regulation adjusts absorption and excretion of these minerals. Appropriate Ca and P concentrations in diets are important in young puppies < 6 months of age.

Biochemical and histopathological evaluation of changes in sled dog paw skin associated with physical stress and cold temperatures.

Abstract Twenty-six Alaskan sled dogs were used to study the biochemical and histopathological changes which occur when dog paws are exposed to cold temperatures and physical stress. They were separated into a running group of 20 dogs and a control group of six non-running dogs. Over 2 1/2 days, the running group ran in their natural environment for 170 miles and environmental parameters were recorded. Following the run, an 8-mm díameter skin biopsy specimen was taken from the lateral aspect of the right fore and hind paws of the running and non-running dogs. The skin was evaluated for histopathological changes and the présence of 2, 3-dinor thromboxane B2 (2, 3-dinor TxB2 ). No significant histopathological changes were noted in any of the biopsy specimens. Based on measured elevation of 2, 3-dinor TxB2 , the forepaws experienced more physical stress than the hind paws. Wet snow at higher environmental temperatures caused more paw stress than hard crusted snow at lower environmental temperatures. Resumen Se emplearon veintiséis perros trineo de Alaska para estudiar las alteraciones bioquimicas e histopatológicas ocurridas durante la exposición de las patas a las bajas temperaturas y al estrés fisico. Se dividieron entre un grupo de 20 perros corredores y un grupo control de seis perros no corredores. Durante dos días y medio el grupo de corredores corrió en su ambiente natural 170 millas. Durante la carrera se tomó una biopsia por punch de 8 mm del aspecto lateral de la pata derecha delantera y trasera de los perros corredores y no corredores. Se evaluaron las alteraciones histopatológicas cutáneas y la presencia de tromboxano B2 2, 3-dinor (2, 3-dinor TxB2 ). No se observaron alteraciones histopatológicas significativas en ninguna de las muestras de biopsia. Según la elevación detectada en 2.3-dinor TxB2 , las patas delanteras sufrieron un estrés fisico mayor que las traseras. La nieve húmeda en temperaturas ambientales elevadas causó un estrés mayor que la nieve dura en temperaturas ambientales más bajas. [Bradley, D.M., Swaim, S.F., Vaughn, D.M., Powers, R.D., McGuire, J.A., Reinhart, G.A., Burr, J., Swenson, R.A. Biochemical and histopathological evaluation of changes in sled dog paw skin associated with physical stress and cold temperatures. (Estudio bioquimico e histopatologico de las alteraciones en las patas de perros de trineo asociadas al estrés fisico y por las bajas temperaturas). Veterinary Dermatology 1996; 7: 203-208.] Résumé Vingt six chiens de traineau de l'Alaska fürent utilisés dans une étude évaluant les modifications biochimiques et histologiques survenant lorsque les pattes sont exposées à des températures froides et des stress physiques. lls fürent divisés en un groupe de vingt chiens de course et un groupe de six chiens ne courant pas. Après deux jours et demi, le groupe de course avait parcouru 170 miles dans son environnement naturel, dont les paramètres fürent enregistrés. Après la course, des biopsies de 8 mm de díamètre fürent prises sur les faces latérales des pattes antérieure et postérieure droites des chiens d'attelage et de ceux qui étaient restés au repos. L'évaluation de l'état cutané s'est faite sur les modifications histologiques et la présence de 2, 3-dinor thromboxane B2 (2, 3-dinor TxB2 ). Aucune modification histologique significative n'a été notée dans aucune des biopsies réalisées. Jugé sur l'élévation du 2, 3 TxB2 , les pattes antérieures subissent un stress physique supérieur aux pattes postérieures. La neige humide à temperatures plus élevées cause plus d'agression que la neige dure et crouteuse à des températures plus basses. [Bradley, D.M., Swaim, S.F., Vaughn, D.M., Powers, R.D., McGuire, J.A., Reinhart, G.A., Burr, J., Swenson, R.A. Biochemical and histopathological evaluation of changes in sled dog paw skin associated with physical stress and cold temperatures. (Evaluation des modifications biochimiques et histologiques induites par les stress physiques et le froid au niveau de la peau des pattes de chiens de traineau). Veterinary Dermatology 1996; 7: 203-208.] Zusammenfassung Sechsundzwanzig Alaska-Schlittenhunde wurde für eine Studie über biochemische und histopathologische Veränderungen herangezogen, die an den Pfotenballen auftreten, wenn sie kalten Temperaturen und physischem Streß ausgesetzt sind. Die Hunde wurden in eine Renngruppe von 20 Hunden und eine Kontrollgruppe von sechs Nicht-Rennhunden eingeteilt. Über einen Zeitraum von zweieinhalb Tagen rannte die Renngruppe in lhrer natürlichen Umgebung 170 Mellen, wobei die Umgebungsparamenter aufgezeichnet wurden. Nach dem Rennen wurden Biopsien mit einem Durchmesser von 8 mm von der Lateralseite der rechten Vorder-und Hinterpfote bei den Renn-und Nichtrennhunden entnommen. Die Haut wurde auf histopathologische Veränderungen und die Anwesenheit von 2, 3-dinor-Thromboxan BA (2, 3-dinor TxB2 ) untersucht. Es wurden keine signifikanten histopathologischen Veränderungen bei einer der Biopsien festgestellt. Auf der Basis der gemessenen Erhöhung von 2, 3-dinor TxB2 erfuhren die Vorderpfoten mehr physischen Streß als die Hinterpfoten. Nasser Schnee und höhere Umgebungstemperaturen verursachten mehr Pfotenstreß als harter, verkrusteter Schnee bei niedrigeren Umgebungstemperaturen. [Bradley, D.M., Swaim, S.F., Vaughn, D.M., Powers, R.D., McGuire, J.A., Reinhart, G.A., Burr, J., Swenson, R.A. Biochemical and histopathological evaluation of changes in sled dog paw skin associated with physical stress and cold temperatures (Biochemische und histopathologische Untersuchung von Hautveränderungen an den Pfoten von Schlittenhunden in Verbindung mit physischem Streß und Kälte). Veterinary Dermatology 1996; 7: 203-208.].

Evaluation of Effects of Dietary n-6 to n-3 Fatty Acid Ratios on Leukotriene B Synthesis in Dog Skin and Neutrophils.

Résumé- Les effets d'alimentations supplémentées avec des ratios croissants decides gras polyinsaturés n - 6/n - 3 sur la synthèse de leucotriènes B dans la peau du chien et les neutrophiles sont présentés. Trente chien Beagles ont reçu pendant 2 mois avec une alimentation ayant un ratio n -6/n -3 de 28:1. Des aliments expérimentaux contenant des ratios de 5:1, 10:1, 25:1, 50:1 et 100:1 (six chiens par groupe) ont été administrés ensuite pendant 12 semaines. A la fin des deux mois d'alimentation témoin et au bout de 6 et 12 semaines d'alimentation expérimentale, les concentrations de LTB4 et LTB5 dans la peau et les neutrophiles ont été déterminées. Les neutrophiles de chiens ayant mangé des aliments de ratio 5:1 et 10:1 ont synthétisé 30-33 pourcent moins de LTB4 (P <0,05) et 370-500 pourcent plus de LTB5 (P <0,05) à 6 et 12 semaines, mais le relargage d'anions superoxide était inchangé. La peau des chiens stimulée par un lipopolysaccharide a synthétisé 48 à 62 pourcent moins de LTB4 (P < 0,05) et 48 à 79 pourcent moins de LTB5 (P <0,05) à 12 semaines. [Vaughan, D. M., Reinhart, G. A., Swaim, S. F., Lauten, S. D., Garner, C. A., Boudreaux, M. K., Spano, J. S., Hoffman, C. E., Conner, B. Evaluation of effects of dietary n -6 to n - 3 fatty acid ratios on leukotriéne B synthesis in dog skin and neutrophils. (Evaluation de l'effet du ratio d'acides gras n - 6/n - 3 dans l'alimentation sur la synthèse de leucotriènes B dans la peau du chien et les neutrophiles). Resumen- Evaluamos los efectos producidos por el aumento en la proportion de ácidos grasos poli-insatu-rados n-6 a n-3 en la dieta sobre la sintesis de leucotrienos B en la piel del perro y en los neutrófilos. Se administró durante dos meses una dieta con una proporión 28:1 de ácidos grasos n-6 a n-3 a un grupo de treinta Beagles. Se administraron dietas experimentales con proporciones de 5:1, 10:1, 25:1, 50:1 y 100:1 durante 12 semanas (seis perros por grupo). Se cuantificaron los niveles de leucotrienos B4 y B5 en la piel y en los neutrófilos al final de los dos meses de dieta control y a las 6 y 12 semanas de la dieta-tratamiento. Los neutrófilos de perros con dietas 5:1 y 10:1 sintetizaron 30 a 33% menos leucotrieno B4 (P < 0.05) y 370 a 500% más leucotrieno B5 (P <0.05) a las 6 y 12 semanas pero no alteraron la liberación de aniones superóxido durante la espiracion. La piel de perro estimulada con lipopolisacáridos sintetizó de 48 a 62% menos leucotrieno B4 (P < 0.05) y 48 a 79% más leucotrieno B5 (P < 0.05) a las 12 semanas. [Evaluation of effects of dietary n-6 to n-3 fatty acid ratios on leukotriene B synthesis in dog skin and neutrophils (Effecto de la proporción de ácidos grasos n-6 a n-3 en la dieta sobre la sintesis de leucotrienos B en la piel del perro y en los neutrófilos). Abstract- The effects of diets supplemented with increasing ratios of n-6 to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on leukotriene B synthesis in dog skin and neutrophils were evaluated. Thirty Beagles were conditioned for 2 months on a diet with an n-6 to n-3 fatty acid ratio of 28:1. Experimental diets, containing n-6 to n-3 ratios of 5:1, 10:1, 25:1, 50:1 and 100:1 (six dogs/group), were fed for 12 weeks. At the end of the 2 month control diet period, and again at 6 and 12 weeks of treatment feeding, leukotriene B4 and leukotriene B5 were quantitated in skin and neutrophils. Neutrophils from dogs fed the 5:1 and 10:1 diets synthesized 30-33 per cent less leukotriene B4 (P < 0.05) and 370-500 per cent greater leukotriene B5 (P < 0.05) at 6 and 12 weeks, but had no change in the release of superoxide anions during respiratory burst. Lipopolysaccharide-stimu-lated dog skin synthesized 48-62 per cent less leukotriene B4 (P < 0.05) and 48-79 per cent more leukotriene B5 (P <0.05) at 12 weeks.

Effects of post-exercise supplements on glycogen repletion in skeletal muscle.

Post-exercise carbohydrate supplementation has been routinely used to enhance glycogen concentrations in skeletal muscle, particularly during multiple-day athletic events. Consumption of protein hydrolysates mixed with carbohydrate supplements during the post-exercise period may increase insulin response and cause glycogen repletion in skeletal muscle. A group of Alaskan sled dogs were selected to examine post-exercise supplementation in a paired crossover study design. The dogs were subjected to the same exercise regimen and provided one of three treatments-water, glucose polymers, or glucose polymers with protein hydrolysates-over a 2-month period. Parameters tested at various post-exercise time points included plasma insulin, glucagon and glucose concentrations, and skeletal muscle glycogen content to gain a better understanding of glucose metabolism and glycogen repletion. The results showed an enhanced insulin, glucose, and glucagon response immediately after supplementation and significantly increased glycogen concentrations in skeletal muscle within 24 hours when dogs received either of the glucose-containing supplements compared with water alone. There were no differences in the plasma parameters or skeletal muscle glycogen stores in dogs provided the glucose polymers alone or the glucose polymers plus protein hydrolysates. Thus, post-exercise carbohydrate supplementation increased muscle glycogen repletion, but inclusion of protein hydrolysates in the supplements provided no additional benefits.

Aceptabilidad de un atole fortificado con 21 micronutrientes e impacto en la salud y nutrición de niños menores de 6 años de edad en la ciudad de guatemala / Acceptability of a 21 micronutrient-fortified atole and its impact on health and nutrition in children under 6 years of age from guatemala city

Con el objetivo de reducir la desnutrición crónica de niños que asisten 6 jardines infantiles en la Ciudad de Guatemala, se utilizó una bebida a base de soya y maíz como vehículo para el aporte de 21 micronutrientes con niveles elevados de hierro (12mg) y zinc (9mg) y se ofreció a 747 niños entre los 6 meses y 6 años. Se realizó seguimiento antropométrico cada 3m, Hb cada 6m y se registró el número de episodios de enfermedad diarreica aguda e infección respiratoria aguda a lo largo de la intervención. Un ANOVA longitudinal de medidas repetidas demostró que la media de la Hb mejoró de manera significativa a los 6 y 12m de recibir la bebida fortificada (11,26, 11,64, y 11,89g/dL, respectivamente), p<0,01; la prevalencia de anemia disminuyó 44,2% después de 12m, p<0,01; la media del puntaje z de talla para la edad también mejoró, -1,25 (0m) y -1,07 (12m), p<0.01; la prevalencia de retardo del crecimiento disminuyó 25% a los 12m. Se observó una disminución significativa en la prevalencia de infección respiratoria aguda y no se observaron cambios en la prevalencia de diarrea. Un estudio de aceptabilidad demostró que los niños consumen más del 98% del producto. Los resultados sugieren que la intervención con el atole fortificado mejora el estado nutricional y de salud de los niños. El producto es aceptado por los niños y el personal de los jardines infantiles(AU)

With the aim to reduce chronic undernutrition in children that attended 6 Guatemala City daycare centers, a corn and soy-based beverage was used as a vehicle to provide 21 micronutrients and high concentrations of iron (12mg) and zinc (9 mg) and was provided to747 children aged 6 to 72 months. Children were followed for anthropometry every 3m, hemoglobin every 6m, and episodes of acute diarrhea and respiratory tract infections were registered throughout the intervention. A longitudinal Repeated Measures ANOVA demonstrated that mean hemoglobin significantly improved at 6 and 12m of receiving the beverage (11.26, 11.64, and 11.89g/dL, respectively), p<0.01; the prevalence of anemia decreased by 44.2% after 12m, p<0.01; mean height-for-age z score improved from -1.25 (0m) to -1.07 (12m), p<0.01; the prevalence of stunting decreased by 25% after 12m. A significant decrease in the prevalence of acute respiratory infection was observed. No changes were observed in the prevalence of diarrhea. Moreover, an acceptability study showed that children consumed more than 98% of the atole. These results suggest that this nutrition intervention with the fortified atole improves the health and nutritional status of children. The product is widely accepted by the children and staff at the nurseries(AU)

Astaxanthin stimulates cell-mediated and humoral immune responses in cats.

Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant carotenoid and may play a role in modulating immune response in cats. Blood was taken from female domestic shorthair cats (8-9 mo old; 3.2 ± 0.04 kg body weight) fed 0, 1, 5 or 10mg astaxanthin daily for 12 wk to assess peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proliferation response, leukocyte subpopulations, natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxic activity, and plasma IgG and IgM concentration. Cutaneous delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response against concanavalin A and an attenuated polyvalent vaccine was assessed on wk 8 (prior to vaccination) and 12 (post-vaccination). There was a dose-related increase in plasma astaxanthin concentrations, with maximum concentrations observed on wk 12. Dietary astaxanthin enhanced DTH response to both the specific (vaccine) and nonspecific (concanavalin A) antigens. In addition, cats fed astaxanthin had heightened PBMC proliferation and NK cell cytotoxic activity. The population of CD3(+) total T and CD4(+) T helper cells were also higher in astaxanthin-fed cats; however, no treatment difference was found with the CD8(+) T cytotoxic and MHC II(+) activated lymphocyte cell populations. Dietary astaxanthin increased concentrations of plasma IgG and IgM. Therefore, dietary astaxanthin heightened cell-mediated and humoral immune responses in cats.