Effect of the acquisition pattern for nutritional knowledge on food collocation among students / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To learn the effect of the acquisition pattern of nutritional knowledge on food collocation among the university students, and to provide a reference for conducting college students to acquire right nutritional knowledge, establish a good diet habit, and improve their mental and physical health.@*Methods@#Totally 1 697 students were selected from 2 universities in Jiangsu Province with the random clustering method after the informed consent. It was investigated with anonymous questionnaire for the source of nutritional knowledge, the knowledge about food collocation, the consideration during food collocation and the food collocation behavior. The sources of nutrition knowledge were then sorted into different patterns by factor analysis. The influence of each pattern on the food collocation was analyzed.@*Results@#The main patterns for nutritional knowledge of the students were net-media, book-net, companion, family and private experience. The correct rate was higher in the students who gained knowledge from book-net pattern (71.8%) than that of the other patterns. The proportion was significantly higher for the consideration of nutrition(95.0%), the collocation between foods with different colors (58.1%)or between the cereals and soybeans(70.6%)in the book-net pattern than that in the companion(83.7%,48.4%,55.9%), family(85.9%,41.7%,49.0%)or private experience(53.3%,31.1%,37.8%)pattern, but the rate of food collocation according to price was relatively lower(76.0%). The proportion was significantly higher for consideration about nutrition(92.2%)during food collocation in the net-media pattern than that in the private experience(53.3%)or companion(83.7%) pattern, and the proportion was higher for the consideration of characteristics of food in various colors(73.8%) than that in the other patterns, too; however, the proportion of consideration for economy(87.7%)was also significantly higher, and the proportion was obviously higher in the net-media pattern for the collocation between grains and flours(67.5%), food with different colors(70.8%), while the proportion was significantly higher in the net-media pattern for the collocation between cereals and soybeans(72.3%)than that in the companion(55.9%), family(49.0%)or private experience(37.8%) patterns, but the proportion was also obviously higher in the net-media pattern for the collocation according to the price(83.4%) than that in the family pattern(71.8%).@*Conclusion@#The book-net pattern can rationally lead the students to make reasonable food collocation.

Nutritional risk screening and its clinical significance in hospitalized children.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: To analyse nutritional risk in hospitalized children and its relationship with clinical outcomes to provide evidence for improved nutritional management. METHODS: The investigation involved 1325 consecutively enrolled hospitalized children from Nanjing Children's Hospital. The nutritional risks in the hospitalized children were evaluated using the STRONGkids tool. During hospitalization, the incidence of infectious complications, length of hospital stay, weight loss, hospital expenses and nutritional support were recorded. RESULTS: The percentages of children with high, moderate and low nutritional risk were 9.1% (121), 43.3% (574) and 47.6% (630), respectively. Children with cardiac, respiratory or oncologic disease were most likely to have high nutritional risk. STRONGkids scores were correlated with clinical outcome. Higher complication rates, longer stay lengths, greater weight loss and greater hospital expenses were observed in children with high nutritional risk compared to those with moderate or low risk (p < 0.001). Nutritional support during hospitalization was given to 62.8% (76) of children with high nutritional risk, 18.6% (107) of children with moderate nutritional risk and 8.9% (56) of children with low nutritional risk. CONCLUSIONS: Hospitalized children exposed to high or moderate nutritional risks have poor clinical outcomes. Nutritional support is not yet performed appropriately. Evidence-based guidelines should be created to improve this situation.

Estrogenic activities of extracts of Chinese licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) root in MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

Despite the wide use of Chinese licorice root (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) for the treatment of menopausal complaints, little is known on its potential estrogenic properties, and available information relative to its effects on cell proliferation is contradictory. In this study, the estrogenic properties of licorice root were evaluated in vitro by use of several assays. The effects of increasing concentrations of a DMSO extract of licorice root on the growth of MCF-7 breast cancer cells were biphasic. The extract showed an ER-dependent growth-promoting effect at low concentrations and an ER-independent anti-proliferative activity at high concentrations. In further experiments, licorice root was sequentially extracted to yield four fractions: hexane, EtOAc, methanol and H(2)O. Only the EtOAc extract had effects on cell proliferation similar to the DMSO extract. The hexane extract had no effect on cell growth. In contrast, the methanol and water extracts showed an ER-independent, growth-promoting effect. Similar to its effects on cell proliferation, the EtOAc extract had a biphasic effect on S phase cell cycle distribution and the level of PCNA protein. This extract-induced transactivation of endogenous ERalpha in MCF-7 cells, supported by inducing down-regulation of ERalpha protein and mRNA levels, and up-regulation of ERalpha target genes pS2 and GREB1. These results suggest that the activity of licorice root and the balance between increased risk for cancer and prevention of estrogen-dependent breast cancer may depend on the amount of dietary intake.

Genistein induces cell apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells via the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway.

Genistein, an isoflavonoid present in soybeans, exhibits anti-carcinogenic effects. Several studies have shown that genistein inhibits cell proliferation and triggers apoptosis in human breast cancer cells. In this study, we assessed the role of the MEK-ERK cascade in the regulation of genistein-mediated cell apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells. The results indicate that genistein, in a concentration-dependent manner, suppresses the protein levels of MEK5, total ERK5, and phospho-ERK5, effects that are consistent with inhibition of cell growth and induction of apoptosis. Exposure of these cells to genistein results in a concentration-dependent decrease in NF-kappaB/p65 protein levels and DNA-binding activity of NF-kappaB. Genistein down-regulates Bcl-2 and up-regulates Bax. NF-kappaB binding sites are present in the promoter of Bcl-2, suggesting that genistein might inhibit the expression of Bcl-2 through down-regulation of NF-kappaB. Exposure of MDA-MB-231 cells to genistein results in cleavage of caspase-3 and induction of caspase-3 activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Genistein inhibits NF-kappaB activity via the MEK5/ERK5 pathway; it also inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis. In conclusion, inhibition of the MEK5/ERK5/NF-kappaB pathway may be an important mechanism by which genistein suppresses cell growth and induces apoptosis.

Caffeine overcomes genistein-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest in breast cancer cells.

Although inhibition of tumor cell growth by genistein is mediated by different types of cell cycle arrest, its regulation of genes related to the cell cycle is not clear. In this study, genistein caused a concentration-dependent growth inhibition in the hormone-independent cell line MDA-MB-435S. Flow cytometric analysis showed that genistein induced a concentration-dependent accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Caffeine enhanced the inhibition of cell proliferation induced by genistein. Caffeine alone did not have an appreciable effect on the phases of the cell cycle, but caffeine at 3 mM completely eliminated genistein-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest. cDNA microarrays were used to investigate the mechanism of genistein-induced, caffeine-negated G2/M arrest. We identified 12 genes, which had opposite responses to genistein and caffeine treatments. Among these, 5 genes were upregulated by genistein and downregulated by caffeine; 7 genes were downregulated by genistein and upregulated by caffeine. Reversal by caffeine of genistein-induced G2/M phase arrest in breast cancer cell lines could increase their sensitivity to genistein and enhance genistein-induced inhibition of cell growth. Genes that have opposite responses to genistein and caffeine may be involved in regulation of the G2/M phase of the cell cycle.

Genistein induces G2/M cell cycle arrest via stable activation of ERK1/2 pathway in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells.

Genistein is an isoflavonoid present in soybeans that exhibits anti-carcinogenic effect. Several studies have shown that genistein can trigger G2/M cell cycle arrest and inhibit cell growth in human breast cancer cells. In the present study, we assessed the role of MEK-ERK cascade in regulation of genistein-mediated G2/M cell cycle arrest in the hormone-independent cell line MDA-MB-231. Flow cytometric analysis showed that treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with genistein induced a concentration-dependent accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, with a parallel depletion of the percentage of cells in G0/G1. Genistein-mediated G2/M arrest was associated with a decrease in the protein levels of Cdk1, cyclinB1, and Cdc25C as determined by Western blot analysis. Genistein induced a slow and stable activation of phosphorylated ERK1/2 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in MDA-MB-231 cells. MEK1/2-specific inhibitor PD98059 blocked genistein-induced activation of ERK1/2 and markedly attenuated genistein-induced G2/M arrest. Furthermore, genistein induced the expression of Ras and Raf-1 protein. Genistein also up-regulated steady-state levels of both c-Jun and c-Fos. PD98059 did not depress genistein-induced up-regulation of Ras and Raf-1 protein. However, it markedly blocked genistein-induced up-regulation of c-Jun and c-Fos. These results suggest that the Ras/MAPK/AP-1 signal pathway may be involved in genistein-induced G2/M cell cycle arrest in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells.

[Study on the relationship between compositions of hyperuricemia and metabolic syndrome].

OBJECTIVE: To study the relationship between compositions of hyperuricemia and metabolic syndrome among residents aged > or =20 years. METHODS: A stratified cluster sampling was conducted with 7887 dwellers recruited and examinaed. Blood samples were then collected for serum detection. Available data was analyzed using SPSS 13.0. RESULTS: The incidence rates of obesity, hypertension and hyperglycemia for hyperuricemia were 53.4% with OR = 2.568 (95% CI: 2.103-3.137), 38.8% with OR= 2.157 (95% CI: 1.856-2.508) and 21.9% with OR = 1.850 (95% CI: 1.552-2.205) respectively. Along with the increase of uric acid, body mass index changed the most followed by triglyceridemia. The change of hyperglycemia for men and cholesterol for women were not prominent. Conclusion The relationship between compositions of hyperuricemia and metabolic syndrome was close, suggesting that hyperuricemia might serve as one of the compositions of metabolic syndrome and could contribute to the prevention and control of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

[Study on blood biochemical variables of obese children screened by new BMI and weight-for-height criterion].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the abnormal state of liver function and plasma lipid levels of obese schoolchildren who were screened by weight-for-height criterion and new body mass index criterion respectively. METHODS: 280 obese children were screened by weight-for-height criterion and 125 obese children were screened by body mass index criterion in a routine school check-up program. All of the latter subjects was included in the former one. One obese child and 1 non-obese child were matched for gender and age. 14 items related to liver functions and plasma lipids were measured. RESULTS: Of the abnormal items,7 items in 125 obese children screened by new BMI criterion and 5 items in 155 "obese children" excluded by BMI criterion, were significantly higher than those children among controlled group. The abnormal rates were 10.4%-22.9% in the former and 3.2%-13.0% in the latter. CONCLUSIONS: The new BMI criterion seemed to be more stringent than weight-for-height. Less than a half of the obese children screened by weight-for-height were taken on obese children by new BMI criterion. The overweight children who were screened by BMI criterion also had abnormal liver functions and plasma lipids.

[Effects of ERK5 MAPK signaling transduction pathway on the inhibition of genistein to breast cancer cells].

OBJECTIVE: To study the role of ERK5 MAPK signaling transduction pathway in the inhibition of genistein to MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. METHODS: The inhibitive effects of genistein on MDA-MB-231 cells were observed with the MTT assay. The cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The ERK5 MAPK, Bax and Caspase3 protein expressions were detected by using western blot method. RESULTS: genistein inhibited the cell proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells and induced apoptosis. The protein expression of ERK5 decreased and those of Bax and Caspase3 increased with the dose of genistein. CONCLUSION: Genistein can affect the ERK5 MAPK signaling transduction pathway and induce the expressions of apoptosis related proteins to inhibit the proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells.

[A community-based case-control study on risk factors of hyperuricemia among residents in the community].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the risk factors of hyperuricemia among residents aged >/= 20 years. METHODS: A community based case-control study was conducted in 286 patients with 858 controls without hyperuricemia. Available data were analyzed by mono-factorial and multi-factorial logistic regression methods using SPSS 10.0 software. RESULTS: 17 factors related to exposure were identified for hyperuricemia the mono-factorial analysis when; five factors were selected through multiple factoral logistic regression model at P = 0.05 level. The risk factors on hyperuricemia were: hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 3.069), alcohol consumption (OR = 2.032), obesity (OR = 1.802), taste of spicy food (OR = 1.877) and hyperglycemia (OR = 1.622). CONCLUSION: Hyperuricemia is a disease associated with environment and style-life. Changing lifestyle, such as decreasing alcohol consumption and adopting proper structure of diet may prevent or decrease the chance of getting hyperuricemia and gout.

Development of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire to determine variation in nutrient intakes between urban and rural areas of Chongqing, China.

Nationwide surveys of food and nutrient intake in China have revealed geographical variation between urban and rural areas. This study developed a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (SQFFQ) for cancer risk assessment suitable for both urban and rural populations by conducting a survey of food intake in Chongqing, China. We recruited 100 urban and 104 rural healthy residents aged from 35 to 55 years in Chongqing, and collected dietary data with 3-day weighed records to assist in the development of the SQFFQ. The intake of 35 nutrients was calculated according to Standard Food Composition Tables for China and Japan. For each nutrient estimated by percentage contribution analysis (CA) and multiple regression analysis (MRA), foods with up to a 90% contribution or a 0.90 cumulative R(2) were selected as items for SQFFQs. The food items of the combined SQFFQ were selected from all items listed in either urban or rural SQFFQs. Mean intake of energy, protein and carbohydrate did not differ between the urban and rural residents. The latter consumed more fat than their urban counterparts. We selected 119 food items for the combined SQFFQ, comprising 22 specific items for the urban SQFFQ, 6 for the rural, and 78 common and 13 additional items. The combined SQFFQ covered 33 nutrients with up to a 90% contribution in each area. We were able to develop a data-based SQFFQ that can estimate nutrient intake of both urban and rural populations, with suitable coverage rates. Further reliability and reproducibility tests are now needed to assess its applicability.

Geographical variation in nutrient intake between urban and rural areas of Jiangsu province, China and development of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire for middle-aged inhabitants.

The intake of food and nutrients differs between urban and rural areas in China. To develop a practical semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire to cover both the urban and rural areas, we conducted diet surveys and compared food and nutrient intake between the two areas. We recruited 198 urban and 214 rural healthy inhabitants aged 35-55 years, and performed diet surveys, using a 3-day weighed dietary record approach. The intake of 29 nutrients was calculated according to actual consumption of foods, with Standard Food Composition Tables for China and Japan. Then, contribution analysis and multiple regression analysis were employed to select food items covering up to a 90% contribution and a 0.90 R2 of coefficient of determination, respectively. Consumption of energy and carbohydrates was greater in the rural area, but mean protein intake was higher in the urban case. Values for total fat were greater for rural than for urban males, with animal fat as the major contributor. We finally selected 117 and 76 food items for the urban and rural semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires, respectively, covering 18 and 27 nutrients constituting up to 90% of the nutrient intake. Further validity and reproducibility tests are now needed to assess their appropriateness for usage.

[Effect of beta-carotene on gene expression of breast cancer cells].

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to investigate the altered gene expression of MCF-7 cell before and after the treatment with beta-carotene using cDNA microarray and to investigate the mechanism which beta-carotene induce breast cancer cell apoptosis. METHODS: Two fluorescence cDNA probes were made using reverse transcriptional reaction from mRNA of beta-carotene untreated or treated MCF-7 cells (human estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells), marked with two different fluorescence dyes (cy3 and cy5) respectively, hybridized with expressed cDNA microarray scanned and analyzed by computer system and finally the expressed gene was produced. RESULTS: A total of 21 genes related to cell apoptosis, cell signal transduction, protein translation and immunity were expressed differently after the treatment of beta-carotene, which 3/21 were up-regulated (AF040958, AK001555,g41894),18/21 were down- regulated(hshsp90r,U83857,AB014509,AF126028,AF053641,AF117386,AF050127,NM_012177,humtopi,AJ250915,U37547,U78798,NM_004849,NM_005346,AF004711,NM_006595,NM_001418,AB015051). CONCLUSION: beta-carotene may inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells through inducing apoptosis,breaking signal transduction,and blocking protein translation.

[The effects of carotenoids on the proliferation of human breast cancer cell and gene expression of bcl-2].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of various carotenoids on the proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and expression of bcl-2 gene in breast cancer cell MCF-7. METHODS: Time and dose effects of individual carotenoids were detected using the MTT assay. The effects of individual carotenoids on cell cycle and the apoptosis were observed by flow cytometry. The expression of bcl-2 mRNA gene was detected using the RT-PCR method. RESULTS: All 4 carotenoids tested inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7 cell line, but with different potencies. beta-carotene and lycopene were the most active inhibitors (inhibition rate 88.2% and 87.8%, respectively) followed by zeaxanthin and astaxanthin. All 4 carotenoids did not induce cell apoptosis. Cell cycle progression was blocked at G(2)/M phase with 60 micromol/L lycopene and at G(0)/G(1) phase with 60 micromol/L zeaxanthin dipalmitate. Carotenoids down regulated bcl-2 gene expression. CONCLUSION: Carotenoids could inhibit the proliferation of human beast cancer MCF-7 cell line in vitro and the action of carotenoids may be worked through different pathways.