2'-substituted chalcone derivatives as inhibitors of interleukin-1 biosynthesis.

A series of 2'-substituted chalcone derivatives has been found to show potent inhibition of the production of IL-1 beta from human peripheral blood monocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), with IC50 values in the 0.2-5.0-microM range. Some members of the series have also shown inhibition of septic shock induced in mice by injection of LPS, although with low potency. Qualitative structure-activity relationships have shown that the enone is required for activity, which may be mediated by conjugate addition of a biological nucleophile to the chalcone. Electron-poor aromatic rings beta to the ketone give enhanced potency. Although electronic effects in the other ring (directly attached to the ketone) are minimal, this ring must possess an ortho substituent for good activity without cytotoxicity, suggesting a degree of selectivity which would not be expected for simple, nonspecific alkylating agents.

Effects of a nutrition workshop on paraprofessional assignment of geriatric nutrition services.

The use of dietary assessment techniques by non-nutrition professionals is necessary if the nutrition component of elderly assistance programs is to be fully utilized to the client's advantage. This study examined the impact of a one day nutrition education workshop on community based assessor's evaluation of nutrition needs and services in the home-bound elderly. At the beginning and end of the workshop, changes in a case study nutrition assessment and assignment of services were evaluated. This same procedure was also followed before and three months after the workshop, using client charts from the field. In both the workshop case study and the field chart review there was a significant increase in the detection of nutrition related problems and assignment of services for these problems after the nutrition education workshop.

The effect of nutrient supplements on high risk long term care residents receiving pureed diets.

This study assessed the change in nutritional intake and status of 15 nursing home residents receiving a pureed diet along with commercial supplements over a 6 month period. The nutritional supplements were well accepted with a significant increase in the energy and nutrient intake after their addition. Gastrointestinal distress was measured by stool size and number. The mean number of stools increased over the 6 month period with the stool sizes remaining relatively the same. Decubitus status was monitored and seven of the ten residents who had some form of decubiti demonstrated signs of complete or partial healing. After three and six months of supplementation hematocrit and serum albumin levels significantly increased.

Nutrition Education, Body Composition, and Dietary Intake of Female College Athletes.

In brief: This study examined the effects of nutrition education (through individual counseling) on the body composition and diet patterns of 39 female college athletes. Anthropometric and diet data were collected before and after the playing season. Ten of the athletes received individual nutrition counseling during the season and comprised group 1; the other 29 made up group 2. Neither group met the recommended dietary allowance for energy before or after the season, but group 1 significantly lowered fat and cholesterol levels and increased carbohydrate and fiber intakes. The findings suggest that individual counseling is effective in improving the diet quality of female athletes.