Effect of the Shaping Healthy Choices Program, a Multicomponent, School-Based Nutrition Intervention, on Physical Activity Intensity

OBJECTIVE

Physical activity has been shown to have a wide range of beneficial health effects, yet few youth meet the United States physical activity recommendation of 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) everyday. The objective of this study was to determine whether physical activity patterns improved in a subsample of fourth-graders participating in the multicomponent intervention, the Shaping Healthy Choices Program (SHCP).

METHODS

At pre- and post-intervention assessments, youth at the control and intervention schools wore a Polar Active monitor on their nondominant wrist 24 h/d for at least 2 consecutive days. Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate change in physical activity by adjusting for covariates and other potential confounders, including ethnicity/race, household income, and sex. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Mean minutes of MVPA significantly increased at the intervention school (22.3 + 37.8; p = 0.01) and at the control school (29.1 + 49.5; p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in the change in MVPA between the schools. Youth at the intervention school significantly decreased mean minutes in sedentary activity compared to the controls (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Youth who participated in the SHCP decreased time spent in sedentary activity and increased very vigorous physical activity from pre- to post-intervention, while these changes were not observed at the control school. The overall small physical activity intensity pattern shift supports that physical activity is an important area to target within a multicomponent nutrition intervention aimed at preventing childhood obesity.

A Multicomponent, School-Based Intervention, the Shaping Healthy Choices Program, Improves Nutrition-Related Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of the Shaping Healthy Choices Program (SHCP).

DESIGN

A clustered, randomized, controlled intervention lasting 1 school year.

SETTING

Schools in northern and central California.

PARTICIPANTS

Fourth-graders (aged 9-10 years) at 2 control schools (n = 179) and 2 intervention schools (n = 230).

INTERVENTION

Garden-enhanced education, family, and community partnerships; increased regionally procured produce in the lunchroom; and school-site wellness committees.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Changes in body mass index (BMI) percentiles/Z-scores; nutrition knowledge, science process skills, and vegetable identification and preferences; and reported fruit and vegetable intake.

ANALYSIS

Student t test, chi-square, ANOVA of change, and multilevel regression mixed model to evaluate change in outcomes with school as a random effect to account for cluster design effects. Statistical significance was set at P < .05.

RESULTS

There was a greater improvement in BMI percentile (-6.08; P < 0.01), BMI Z-score (-0.28; P < .001), and waist-to-height ratio (-0.02; P < .001) in the intervention compared with the control schools.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The SHCP resulted in improvements in nutrition knowledge, vegetable identification, and a significant decrease in BMI percentiles. This supports the concept that the SHCP can be used to improve the health of upper elementary school students.

Using Skin Carotenoids to Assess Dietary Changes in Students After 1 Academic Year of Participating in the Shaping Healthy Choices Program

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether fourth-grade students participating in the Shaping Healthy Choices Program (SHCP), a school-based nutrition intervention, would change vegetable and carotenoid intake measured by skin carotenoids and dietary intake.

METHODS

Single-group pretest-posttest with a self-selected, convenience sample of students (n = 30) participating in the SHCP, which lasted 1 academic year (9 months). Dietary intake of vegetables and carotenoids as measured by Block food frequency questionnaire and skin carotenoids as measured by Raman spectroscopy were collected at the school preintervention and postintervention.

RESULTS

Reported carotenoid intake decreased by 1.5 mg (P = .05) and skin carotenoids decreased by 2,247.9 RRS intensity units (P = .04). Change in reported intake correlated with change in skin carotenoids (r = .43; P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The reported decrease in vegetable and carotenoid intake was unanticipated; nevertheless, the RRS measurements confirmed this. RRS data can help evaluate changes in fruit and vegetable intake.

Evaluating the Relationships Among Teacher Characteristics, Implementation Factors, and Student Outcomes of Children Participating in an Experiential School-Based Nutrition Program

The purpose of this study was to examine whether teacher characteristics and implementation factors influenced the effectiveness of a multicomponent nutrition education program to improve nutrition-related knowledge and behavior among fourth-grade children. Schools implemented the Shaping Healthy Choices Program (SHCP), a multicomponent nutrition intervention, during 2013-2014. Fourth-grade teachers ( n = 8) at two schools facilitated nutrition education using an experiential, garden-enhanced nutrition curriculum among students ( n = 173) in their classrooms. Teacher characteristics of teaching experience, self-efficacy in teaching nutrition, and knowledge about nutrition were collected at baseline. Implementation factors of fidelity and completion were measured using self-reports and qualitative observations. Student outcomes included body mass index percentile-for-age, nutrition knowledge, critical thinking skills, and identification of vegetables and were measured pre/post. Relationships were analyzed using multivariate mixed-model regression with classroom as a random effect. Pre/post changes were analyzed using t tests. Students improved body mass index percentile-for-age (−1.99 ± 7.95) and increased nutrition knowledge (2.28 ± 3.40), critical thinking skills (1.98 ± 3.28), and the ability to identify vegetables (0.87 ± 1.09). Teachers’ characteristics of teaching experience, experience teaching nutrition, attendance in a college nutrition course, self-efficacy, and nutrition knowledge were significantly related to fidelity and completeness of program implementation. This study demonstrated implementation of SHCP by teachers can positively influence student outcomes, though program implementation depends on teacher characteristics.

Using a Systematic Approach and Theoretical Framework to Design a Curriculum for the Shaping Healthy Choices Program

OBJECTIVE

To examine the use of a systematic approach and theoretical framework to develop an inquiry-based, garden-enhanced nutrition curriculum for the Shaping Healthy Choices Program.

METHODS

Curriculum development occurred in 3 steps: identification of learning objectives, determination of evidence of learning, and activity development. Curriculum activities were further refined through pilot-testing, which was conducted in 2 phases. Formative data collected during pilot-testing resulted in improvements to activities.

RESULTS

Using a systematic, iterative process resulted in a curriculum called Discovering Healthy Choices, which has a strong foundation in Social Cognitive Theory and constructivist learning theory. Furthermore, the Backward Design method provided the design team with a systematic approach to ensure activities addressed targeted learning objectives and overall Shaping Healthy Choices Program goals.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The process by which a nutrition curriculum is developed may have a direct effect on student outcomes. Processes by which nutrition curricula are designed and learning objectives are selected, and how theory and pedagogy are applied should be further investigated so that effective approaches to developing garden-enhanced nutrition interventions can be determined and replicated.

Exploring nutrition education resources and barriers, and nutrition knowledge in teachers in California

OBJECTIVE

To determine barriers to nutrition education, nutrition education resources used, and the relationship between nutrition knowledge and whether public school teachers in California teach nutrition in the classroom.

METHODS

A total of 102 teachers in California participated in a Web-based survey about nutrition education barriers, resources used to plan nutrition lessons, and factors that would encourage inclusion of nutrition. A validated questionnaire was used to assess nutrition knowledge. Analyses included ordinary least-squares regression.

RESULTS

Common barriers were lack of instructional time and unrelated subject. Teachers were unaware of many nutrition education resources. Nutrition knowledge was not associated with nutrition lessons but was positively associated with teaching high school (β = 5.13; P < .05) and female gender (β = 6.78; P < .05), and negatively associated with identifying as Hispanic or Latino (β = -15.50; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Barriers of time and lack of unrelated subject matter are difficult to address but lack of awareness of resources indicates that promotion of existing resources may encourage teachers to provide nutrition education. Larger studies are needed to determine whether this holds true in a broader sample.

Reliability and validity of nutrition knowledge questionnaire for adults

OBJECTIVE

To determine the validity and reliability of a nutrition knowledge questionnaire for adults in California.

METHODS

A convenience sample of adults was recruited for cognitive interviews. A mail-based survey of 400 randomly selected addresses was used to assess internal consistency (Cronbach α). Researchers assessed content validity (Student t test) and test-retest reliability (Pearson correlation) in a convenience sample of university students who had previously taken a college nutrition course, compared with students who had not.

RESULTS

Twenty adults participated in cognitive interviews, 94 adults returned the mailed questionnaire, and 48 university students participated in validity and reliability testing. Cronbach α = .91 and test-retest r = 0.95, demonstrating internal consistency reliability and test-retest reliability. Students who had taken a college-level nutrition course scored significantly higher compared with students who had not (P < .001), demonstrating construct validity.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Findings show that the questionnaire is a valid and reliable nutrition knowledge measure for use in California and may be of use in other places.

The Shaping Healthy Choices Program: design and implementation methodologies for a multicomponent, school-based nutrition education intervention

OBJECTIVE

To provide a framework for implementation of multicomponent, school-based nutrition interventions. This article describes the research methods for the Shaping Healthy Choices Program, a model to improve nutrition and health-related knowledge and behaviors among school-aged children.

DESIGN

Longitudinal, pretest/posttest, randomized, controlled intervention.

SETTING

Four elementary schools in California.

PARTICIPANTS

Fourth-grade students at intervention (n = 252) and control (n = 238) schools and their parents and teachers. Power analyses demonstrate that a minimum of 159 students per group will be needed to achieve sufficient power. The sample size was determined using the variables of nutrition knowledge, vegetable preference score, and body mass index percentile.

INTERVENTION

A multicomponent school-based nutrition education intervention over 1 academic year, followed by activities to support sustainability of the program.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Dietary and nutrition knowledge and behavior, critical thinking skills, healthy food preferences and consumption, and physical activity will be measured using a nutrition knowledge questionnaire, a food frequency questionnaire, a vegetable preferences assessment tool, the Test of Basic Science Process Skills, digital photography of plate waste, PolarActive accelerometers, anthropometrics, a parent questionnaire, and the School and Community Actions for Nutrition survey.

ANALYSIS

Evaluation will include quantitative and qualitative measures. Quantitative data will use paired t, chi-square, and Mann-Whitney U tests and regression modeling using P = .05 to determine statistical significance.

Enculturation, perceived stress, and physical activity: implications for metabolic risk among the Yup'ik--the Center for Alaska Native Health Research Study

OBJECTIVES

American Indians and Alaska Natives (ANs) report among the lowest levels of physical activity in the USA, but there is very little systematic research examining the determinants of physical activity patterns in these populations. This study investigated the relationships between enculturation (or cultural traditionality), psychosocial stress, and physical activity in a community-based sample of Yup'ik women and men living in rural AN communities. Associations between these variables and several metabolic risk factors were also examined.

DESIGN

A sample of 488 Yup'ik participants (284 women and 204 men) from six villages in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region completed a wellness survey and an array of physiological assessments [e.g., body mass index (BMI), blood pressure]. A subset of 179 participants also completed a 3-day pedometer assessment of physical activity.

RESULTS

Multivariate linear regression models indicated that participants who were more enculturated (i.e., living more of a traditional lifestyle) and who experienced lower levels of psychosocial stress were significantly more physically active. In turn, both lower levels of psychosocial stress and higher levels of physical activity were associated with lower BMI, lower percent body fat, and lower waist circumference.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings underscore the importance of gaining a culturally specific understanding of physical activity patterns in indigenous groups in order to inform effective health promotion strategies.

Stepping up to the challenge: the development, implementation, and assessment of a statewide, regional, leadership program for school nutrition directors

A statewide professional development program was developed and implemented throughout California for school nutrition directors with the goal of creating healthy school environments and regional networks for collaboration and healthy school environment sustainability. Needs of school nutrition directors were identified through a needs assessment questionnaire. Results of the needs assessment questionnaire (n = 256) identified (a) planning cost-effective menus; (b) reducing calories, sodium, saturated fat, and trans fat in menus; and (c) using U.S. Department of Agriculture foods cost-effectively as the most useful topics. Highest rated topics informed the content of the professional development program. A post-professional development questionnaire identified key "insights, inspirations, and strategies" as (a) marketing of school foods program, (b) expansion of salad bars, and (c) collaboration with community partners. A 6-month follow-up questionnaire identified that 86% of participants made progress toward implementing at least one of their five insights, inspirations, and strategies in their school districts. Most common areas that were implemented were marketing and branding (32%), revamping salad bars (18%), and motivating staff (16%). School and Community Actions for Nutrition survey analysis showed a significant increase in the use of marketing methods in school nutrition programs from baseline to 6-month post-program implementation (p = .024).

Factors contributing to a school's decision to apply for the California Instructional School Garden Program

OBJECTIVE

To compare the applicant schools (AS) to non-applicant schools (NAS) residing in the same school districts for the California Instructional School Garden Program and identify barriers to the application process.

METHODS

A case-control, cross-sectional study design was used to compare resources and school environments. Pearson chi-square and logistic regression were conducted.

RESULTS

Public schools throughout California participated (n = 1,662). The response rates for AS and NAS were 43.2% and 48.2%, respectively. Applicant schools had greater access to garden coordinators and parent/community volunteers dedicated to school gardens, and they had other sources of funds/grants to support school gardens compared to NAS (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Access to certain garden resources played a significant role in predicting whether schools would decide to participate in the California Instructional School Garden Program.

Best practices models for implementing, sustaining, and using instructional school gardens in California

To ascertain best practices for schools implementing or sustaining instructional school gardens by interviewing key members in 10 schools with exemplary instructional school gardens programs in California. Practices of schools with exemplary instructional school gardens programs were analyzed by constant comparative analysis using qualitative data analysis software. Seven of the 10 schools had people from at least 3 of the following 4 groups: administrators, teachers, parent and community volunteers and garden coordinators. Nine of 10 schools had a part- or full-time garden coordinator. Results demonstrated that a committee committed to instructional school gardens is the most important step towards success.

Westernizing diets influence fat intake, red blood cell fatty acid composition, and health in remote Alaskan Native communities in the center for Alaska Native health study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impact of a Westernizing diet on fat intake, red blood cell fatty acid composition, and health risks among Yup'ik Eskimos living in rural Alaskan Native communities.

DESIGN

Diet data and blood specimens were collected from 530 Yup'ik Eskimos aged 14 to 94 years old. Height, weight, and waist circumference were measured.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES

Comparisons of select fatty acid intake between participants in quintiles of traditional food intake (percent energy) were made using analyses of variance and post hoc Bonferroni tests. General linear models were used to determine the association between traditional food intake and health outcomes.

RESULTS

Fatty acid composition of the diet differed according to the level of traditional food intake. Traditional food intake was positively associated with higher total fat, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid intake. No association was observed between traditional food intake and saturated fatty acid intake; indeed, participants consuming more traditional foods derived a substantially smaller proportion of their dietary fatty acids from saturated fatty acids (P<0.001). Analyses of red blood cell fatty acid composition supported these findings. After multivariable adjustment, traditional food intake was significantly positively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration and significantly negatively associated with triglyceride concentration (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Diets emphasizing traditional Alaskan Native foods were associated with a fatty acid profile promoting greater cardiovascular health than diets emphasizing Western foods. Further research needs to evaluate the effects of a Westernizing diet on the overall diet of Alaskan Natives.

The use of multiple logistic regression to identify risk factors associated with anemia and iron deficiency in a convenience sample of 12-36-mo-old children from low-income families

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of iron deficiency (ID) anemia among preschool-age children remains relatively high in some areas across the United States. Determination of risk factors associated with ID is needed to allow children with identifiable risk factors to receive appropriate education, testing, and follow-up.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate risk factors associated with anemia and ID in a sample of children participating in or applying for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

DESIGN

The study was a cross-sectional study of a convenience sample of 12-36-mo-old children recruited from WIC clinics in 2 California counties (n = 498).

RESULTS

Current WIC participation by the child and a greater rate of weight gain were negatively associated, and current maternal pregnancy was positively associated with anemia (hemoglobin < 110 g/L at 12-<24 mo or < 111 g/L at 24-36 mo) after control for age, sex, and ethnicity. Maternal WIC participation during pregnancy, child age, and the intake of > or =125 mL orange or tomato juice/d were negatively associated, and being male and living in an urban location were positively associated with ID (> or =2 of the following abnormal values: ferritin < or = 8.7 microg/L, transferrin receptors > or = 8.4 microg/mL, and transferrin saturation < or = 13.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Current WIC participation by the child and maternal WIC participation during pregnancy were negatively associated with anemia and ID, respectively. It is anticipated that the risk factors identified in this study will be included in the development of an educational intervention focused on reducing the risk factors for ID and ID anemia in young children.

Nutrient intakes are associated with adherence to a traditional diet among Yup'ik Eskimos living in remote Alaska Native communities: the CANHR Study

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether dietary westernization is associated with intake of select nutrients among Alaska Natives living in remote communities. To investigate participant characteristics associated with adherence to the traditional Alaska Native diet.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

METHODS

A 24-hour recall was collected from 241 men and 307 women aged 14-94 years living in seven remote communities of Western Alaska. Bivariate analyses and ANOVA were used to examine the relationship between energy from traditional foods (the primary variable of interest), participant characteristics and intake of select nutrients.

RESULTS

Traditional foods accounted for 22% of energy intake.overall. This estimate varied by age, educational attainment, and geographic location. Participants in the highest quintile of traditional food intake consumed significantly more vitamin A, vitamin D, Vitamin E, Iron, and n-3 fatty acids than participants in the lowest quintile (p < 0.001). Intake of vitamin C, calcium, and total dietary fiber decreased with increased consumption of traditional foods (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of dietary westernization contributes to nutrient intake, both positively and negatively, in a dose response manner. Participant characteristics, particularly age, must be addressed in the development of a nutrition education program since they are associated with distinct dietary intakes.

Diet Quality among Yup’ik Eskimos Living in Rural Communities Is Low: The Center for Alaska Native Health Research Pilot Study

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this pilot study were to describe the nutrient intake of Yup'ik Eskimos in comparison with national intake, identify dietary sources of key nutrients, and assess the utility of the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) to measure diet quality of Yup'ik Eskimos living in rural Alaskan Native communities.

PARTICIPANTS AND DESIGN

A single 24-hour recall was collected from 48 male and 44 female Yup'ik Eskimos (aged 14 to 81 years), who resided in three villages in the Yukon Kuskokwim River Delta, AK, during September 2003.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

HEI scores, nutrient intake, and traditional food intake.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Spearman correlations for associations between variables.

RESULTS

Youth scored higher than elders despite similar nutrient intakes. Overall diet quality was generally low; 63% of all participants' diets were classified as poor. Although the HEI serves to identify areas of concern with respect to diet quality, it is limited in its ability to detect the positive value of traditional foods.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional foods and healthful market foods, including rich sources of fiber and calcium, should be encouraged. Although traditional foods were important sources of energy and nutrients, market foods composed the preponderance of the diet, emphasizing the importance of appropriately modifying a diet quality index based on a Western framework, such as the HEI.

California teachers perceive school gardens as an effective nutritional tool to promote healthful eating habits

This study assessed elementary school teachers' perceived attitudes and barriers associated with school gardens, as well as the purpose and use of gardens in schools, specifically in relation to the link between gardens and nutrition. The questionnaire was mailed to California fourth-grade teachers at schools with gardens (N = 1,665). The response rate was 36% (n = 592). Teachers perceived the garden to be somewhat to very effective at enhancing academic performance, physical activity, language arts, and healthful eating habits. Nutrition was taught with the use of the garden by 47% of responding teachers. This research provides evidence for needed standards-based curricula materials and teacher training in relation to gardening and nutrition. The results from this study will contribute to development of needed resources and methods by which to encourage the use of gardens and nutrition education in schools.

A "contract for change" increases produce consumption in low-income women: a pilot study

This study determined whether a "Contract for Change" goal-setting exercise enhanced the effectiveness of the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education/Food Stamp Nutrition Education programs to increase produce consumption in low-income (<130% of poverty) women after 4 weeks. Thirty-eight participants were randomized in this three-group parallel arm study: (a) control group participants received life-skills lessons, (b) the education group received the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education/Food Stamp Nutrition Education "Food Guide Pyramid" lessons, and (c) the contract group also received the "Food Guide Pyramid" series and completed a "Contract for Change." It was hypothesized that the contract group would have the greatest increases in advancement toward dietary change and produce consumption. Compared with controls, the contract group significantly moved toward acceptance of vegetable consumption (P < or = .05). Compared with the education group, the contract group significantly increased fruit consumption. Results suggest that nutrition professionals can effectively use goal-setting to assist low-income populations with dietary change.

Anemia, iron deficiency, and iron deficiency anemia in 12-36-mo-old children from low-income families

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency (ID) is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world and remains relatively common in at-risk groups in the United States. The actual prevalence of anemia, ID, and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in California remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to determine the prevalence of anemia, low iron stores, ID, and IDA in children participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) population, and to assess the value of using hemoglobin to predict ID.

DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional study of a convenience sample of 12-36-mo-old children from WIC clinics in 2 California counties.

RESULTS

The prevalence of anemia was 11.1% (hemoglobin <110 g/L at 12-24 mo or <111 g/L at 24-36 mo). Study- and literature-determined abnormal values for iron measures were as follows: serum ferritin <or=8.7 or <10.0 microg/L, serum transferrin receptor >or=8.4 or >10.0 microg/mL, and transferrin saturation <or=13.2% or <10.0%, respectively. The prevalences of low iron stores (low ferritin) were 24.8% and 29.0%, of ID (>or=2 abnormal iron measures) were 16.2% and 8.8%, and of IDA (ID with low hemoglobin) were 3.4% and 3.2% on the basis of study- and literature-determined cutoffs, respectively. Hemoglobin concentration was used to predict study- and literature-determined ID on the basis of receiver operating characteristic curves. The sensitivity of low hemoglobin in predicting study- and literature-determined ID was low (23.2% and 40.0%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Anemia and ID were prevalent in this WIC sample, but IDA was uncommon. Low hemoglobin is a poor predictor of ID.

Use of school gardens in academic instruction

OBJECTIVE

To determine the status of gardens in California schools.

DESIGN

A self-administered Internet and mailed survey was sent to all California principals (N = 9805).

PARTICIPANTS

4194 California school principals.

VARIABLES MEASURED

School garden practices, attitudes associated with the use of gardens in schools, and perceptions of barriers to having and using school gardens in academic instruction.

ANALYSIS

Descriptive statistics and chi-square; P < .05.

RESULTS

A 43% response rate was achieved. The most frequent reason for having a garden was for enhancement of academic instruction. Gardens were most commonly used for teaching science, environmental studies, and nutrition. Principals strongly agreed that resources such as curriculum materials linked to academic instruction and lessons on teaching nutrition in the garden would assist in the school garden being used for academic instruction. Principals deemed the garden as being not to slightly effective at enhancing the school meal program.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

School gardens appear to be predominantly used by most schools to enhance academic instruction. There is a need for curriculum materials and teacher training for gardening and nutrition. The link between the garden and the school meal program is an area that clearly requires attention. School lunch would be a logical setting for provision of edible produce, in addition to taste-testing of fresh produce in the garden or classroom setting.

Enhancing effect of maternal zinc deficiency and 137Cs gamma-irradiation on the frequency of fetal malformations in mice

It is well established that in mammals transitory zinc (Zn) deficiency during embryogenesis can have a negative influence on fetal development. Similar to Zn deficiency, maternal exposure to low levels of ionizing radiation during the first day of pregnancy has been shown to negatively affect preimplantation embryo development, and higher doses of maternal irradiation during late stages of embryogenesis can result in malformations. Here we report the effect of transitory maternal Zn deprivation combined with low dose irradiation during embryogenesis on fetal outcome. Pregnant mice were acutely dosed with 0.00, 0.05, 0.10, or 0.25 Gy of gamma-radiation the day after mating (GD0), or with 0.00 or 0.50 Gy on GD8. Mice irradiated on GD0 were either fed a low Zn diet (0.4 microgram Zn/g) for 48 h prior to mating through GD0 or GD5 and then switched to a control diet (50 micrograms Zn/g) through GD18, or they were fed the control diet throughout gestation. Dams irradiated on GD8 were either fed the low Zn diet from GD0 through GD10 and then switched to the control diet, or they were fed the control diet throughout gestation. Zn deprivation did not influence any of the maternal or embryonic/fetal parameters measured in the cohorts fed the low Zn diet through GD0. In contrast, groups fed the low Zn diet through GD5 or GD10 had lower mean maternal body weights, fewer live fetuses/litter, and a higher incidence of resorptions than controls. Fetuses from dams fed the low Zn diet through GD10 were smaller and shorter, and had a higher frequency of malformations than controls. Irradiation on GD8 under adequate Zn conditions had no effect on any parameter, but GD8 irradiation during maternal Zn deficiency had an additive effect on the frequency of fetal malformations.

Toxicant exposure and trace element metabolism in pregnancy

A review of the literature provides support for the concept that maternal nutritional status has a significant influence on embryonic and fetal development. The consumption of `poor' diets has been shown to be a risk factor for poor pregnancy outcome, while the provision of selected nutritional supplements prior to and during pregnancy has been associated with improved pregnancy outcome. Despite the above, it has been difficult to identify specific nutrient deficiencies as causative factors of abnormal development. One explanation for this failure is that embryo/fetal nutritional deficiencies can arise through a number of mechanisms in addition to a low maternal intake of a nutrient(s). Evidence is presented for the hypothesis that the developmental toxicity of a number of teratogens can be ascribed, in part, to their ability to induce alterations in the partitioning of essential trace elements between the maternal and fetal unit. An implication of the above hypothesis is that maternal diet can be an important modulator of the developmental toxicity of several agents.

Effect of participation in congregate-site meal programs on nutritional status of the healthy elderly

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to evaluate whether participation in a congregate-site meal program influenced the nutritional status of a group of healthy elderly.

DESIGN

Nutritional status, as defined by dietary intake and biochemical indexes, was assessed in free-living persons (aged 60 to 89 years) who either did (n = 70) or did not (n = 65) participate in the meal program. Three-day mean intakes of 17 nutrients and serum levels of 13 indexes of nutritional status were measured.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES

Multifactorial analysis of variance was used to determine differences in nutrient intake data and biochemical indexes between the groups. By means of correlation analysis, relationships between income and main outcome measures were examined. chi 2 Analysis was used to determine differences in response to categorical variables of the questionnaire.

RESULTS

In general, dietary intakes of participants did not differ significantly from those of nonparticipants, nor did the meal provided at the site significantly affect the overall dietary intake of participants. Mean biochemical indexes of nutritional status were within normal ranges for participants and nonparticipants, except for iron. However, 26% of the population consumed diets that may place them at risk for nutritional inadequacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Mean dietary intake data and biochemical indexes of nutritional status suggest that the congregate-site meal program did not significantly affect the nutritional status of the population surveyed. Additional studies focusing on the nutritional intake and status of low-income, ethnic minority, and socially isolated participants in the congregate-site meal program are needed to assess which populations are at risk for nutritional deficiencies.

Periconceptional zinc deficiency affects uterine 3H-estradiol binding in mice

To better define the mechanisms by which zinc (Zn) deficiency influences periconceptional development, we examined the effects of this developmental insult on uterine estrogen metabolism. CD-1 mice were assigned to 1 of 3 groups (Low Zn, LZ; Control, C; or Replete, R) and fed either a low Zn (< or = 0.3 microgram Zn/g) or control diet (47 micrograms Zn/g) 5 days prior to gestation day (GD) 0 and continuing up to GD 4 during early pregnancy. Mice in the R group were fed the low Zn diet until GD 1 after which they were fed the control diet. Uterine 3H-estradiol binding in vivo was measured on GD 2, GD 3, and GD 4. Binding was similar among groups on GD 2 and GD 3, but was lower on GD 4 in LZ mice than in C and R mice (61% of control value). On GD 4, uterine 3H-estradiol binding in vitro was measured and was lower in LZ mice than in C and R mice (63-74% of control values); the reduction in binding was due to lower receptor number. Thus, Zn deficiency can result in a reduction in uterine estradiol receptors and estradiol binding.

Should vitamin-mineral supplements be recommended for all women with childbearing potential?

Interest in maternal nutritional status as a critical factor for prenatal development has increased. When supplemented before conception, iodine prevents cretinism and folic acid reduces neural tube defect risks. Other nutrient supplements may also reduce pregnancy complications. Thus, should supplements be advocated for all women with childbearing potential? Potential supplementation benefits include 1) improved nutritional status, 2) reduced risk of some developmental defects, 3) improved antioxidant and immune defense systems, 4) lower incidence and/or slower progression of some diseases, and 5) harmonization of government and health care professionals' dietary recommendations for optimal health. Potential questions are, will the supplement reduce a woman's motivation to maintain and/or improve dietary quality? Will the supplement result in excessive nutrient intakes and/or adverse nutrient-nutrient interactions? Will supplement use encourage the perception that all women are, by definition, well nourished? These issues should be clarified before widespread supplementation programs are implemented.

Influence of periconceptional zinc deficiency on embryonic plasma membrane function in mice

Periconceptional Zn deprivation can affect development of 2- and 4-cell mouse embryos in vitro as evidenced by fewer cells per embryo and delayed blastocyst development after 72 h in culture. One mechanism by which this could be occurring is through changes in oocyte and embryonic membrane structure/function. To test this idea, 3H-glycine uptake was measured in unfertilized oocytes and preimplantation embryos recovered from mice fed control (+Zn; 50 micrograms Zn/g diet) or low Zn (-Zn; < or = 0.4 micrograms Zn/g diet) diets for 6 days. In a second experiment, we assessed the in vitro development of preimplantation embryos in medium designed to inhibit cavitation through changes in membrane-associated sodium flux. Preimplantation embryos from -Zn and +Zn mice recovered on day 1 of gestation were cultured in medium containing 147.2 mM sodium (normal) or 123 mM sodium (low sodium) for 48 h. In experiment 1, glycine uptake was similar in embryos from +Zn and -Zn mice, suggesting that the impaired in vitro development of embryos from -Zn mice is not due to gross changes in sodium-dependent cell membrane function. In experiment 2, embryos recovered from -Zn mice and cultured in normal sodium medium contained fewer cells than controls. Embryos from both groups cultured in low sodium medium contained fewer cells than their normal sodium controls; the percent difference in cell number was 50 +/- 8% and 56 +/- 11% for embryos from +Zn and -Zn mice, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Influence of copper status on the response to acute ethanol exposure in rats

An acute dose of ethanol was used to investigate the biochemical response of tissues with a compromised antioxidant defense system to a surge of oxygen radical production. The copper (Cu)-deficient rat served as the animal model for this study based on its compromised antioxidant defense system. Rats were fed control (10 micrograms Cu/g) or Cu-deficient (0.2 microgram Cu/g) diet for 14 days. In order to minimize secondary effects associated with chronic Cu deficiency, the chelator triethylenetetramine was added to the Cu-deficient diet to shorten the time required for the induction of Cu deficiency. On day 14, rats were gavaged with ethanol (4.5 g/kg b.wt.) or saline and killed 9 hours postgavage. Rats fed the Cu-deficient diets had lower liver superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities than controls. Ethanol treatment had no effect on liver CuZnSOD or Gpx activity, while MnSOD activity was higher than saline control levels following EtOH treatment. Despite low GPx and SOD activity, Cu-deficient rats did not exhibit higher hepatic thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS) than controls; in fact, hepatic microsomal TBARS were lower in saline-treated Cu-deficient rats relative to Cu-sufficient rats. Ethanol treatment resulted in higher whole homogenate and mitochondrial TBARS than in saline-gavaged rats. Copper status did not influence hepatic TBARS production in response to an acute EtOH load. These data suggest that compensatory mechanisms contribute to the protection of the liver from excessive free radical production in this model of Cu deficiency.

Influence of short-term maternal zinc deficiency on the in vitro development of preimplantation mouse embryos

In this study, we evaluated the use of mouse preimplantation embryos as a model to study zinc deficiency-induced abnormal development. In Experiment 1, the effect of culture medium Zn concentrations on blastocyst development was studied. Preimplantation embryos (2 and 4 cells) obtained from superovulated females developed normally in media containing 0.7-30 microM Zn for up to 72 hr; higher levels of medium Zn resulted in abnormal development. In Experiment 2A, females were fed diets containing 50 (+Zn) or 0.4 (-Zn) micrograms Zn/g (760 vs 6 nmol/g, respectively) from 1 day before to 1 day after mating (3 days total). Preimplantation embryos were removed from the dams and cultured for 72 hr in 0.7 microM Zn medium. Embryos from the -Zn dams were morphologically normal at time zero; however, over the 72-hr period, these embryos tended to develop at a slower rate than controls, although compaction and cavitation frequency were similar. By the end of the 72-hr culture period, embryos from -Zn dams had significantly fewer cells than did embryos from control dams. In Experiment 2B, an extended period of maternal Zn deprivation (6 days) was used to investigate the potential for further impairment of in vitro preimplantation embryo development observed in Experiment 2A. Results from this experiment were consistent with those from Experiment 2A, in addition to providing evidence that the developmental progress of embryos obtained from mice fed Zn-deficient diets for 6 days was significantly impaired. In Experiment 3, the potential for supplemental Zn in culture medium to overcome the impairment in development due to maternal Zn deficiency was investigated. Embryos from female mice subjected to the same dietary regimen described in Experiment 2A were cultured to the blastocyst stage in medium containing Zn at a concentration of either 0.7 or 7.7 microM. Medium Zn supplementation did not improve development of embryos from dams fed Zn-deficient diets. In summary, embryos from mice fed -Zn diets for a 3- or 6-day period encompassing oocyte maturation and fertilization exhibited impaired development in vitro. This impairment was not overcome by medium Zn supplementation.

Ethanol-induced changes in hepatic free radical defense mechanisms and fatty-acid composition in the miniature pig

In the miniature pig, ethanol consumption has been reported to induce alterations in hepatic antioxidant defense capacity, which could result in increased risk of peroxidative damage. However, ethanol may also induce changes in membrane fatty acid composition, which could reduce the risk of peroxidative damage. This study examined lipid peroxidation, antioxidant defense and fatty acid composition in livers from miniature pigs fed ethanol in diets containing 12% of their calories as fat for 20 mo. After 12 and 20 mo of feeding, ethanol-fed pigs had higher hepatic manganese-superoxide dismutase activity, lower hepatic copper concentrations and low hepatic copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities compared with controls. Lipid peroxidation as assessed by thiobarbituric acid reacting substance assay was lower in liver homogenate and mitochondrial and microsomal fractions from ethanol-fed pigs than in controls. The percentage contribution of highly unsaturated fatty acids to total fatty acids in liver homogenates (after 12 mo of feeding) and microsome fractions (after 20 mo of feeding) was lower in the ethanol-fed pigs than in the controls, resulting in a lower peroxidizability index. Ethanol-fed pigs had minimal or no hepatic damage as assessed by histological methods. We suggest that the relative resistance of microsomes to lipid peroxidation is due to the lower peroxidizability index in the ethanol-fed pigs and may account in part for the absence of significant histopathological findings after 20 mo of ethanol feeding.

Influence of dietary-induced copper and manganese deficiency on ozone-induced changes in lung and liver antioxidant systems

The influence of an animal's copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn) status on its response to ozone was investigated in weanling mice. Control, Cu-deficient and Mn-deficient mice were exposed continuously to 1.2 ppm O3 or filtered air for 7 days. In control mice, ozone exposure resulted in higher lung activities of CuZnSOD, MnSOD and GPx. In contrast, Mn-deficient mice did not display increases in lung MnSOD, CuZnSOD or GPx activities following ozone exposure. Similarly, ozone-induced increases in lung CuZn-SOD and MnSOD activities were not observed in Cu-deficient mice, although lung GPx activity was increased in these mice relative to their air-breathing controls. These results show that an animal's Cu and Mn status can influence its response to ozone, and the data suggest that Cu- and Mn-deprived animals may be more susceptible to long-term or repetitive ozone exposure.

The effect of chronic alcohol ingestion on free radical defense in the miniature pig

Cellular protection from free radical reactions was measured in hepatic tissue from controls and miniature pigs fed ethanol. The activities of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) and glutathione peroxidase were lower and the activity of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) was higher in the pigs fed ethanol than in controls. Glutathione concentration was lower in the pigs fed ethanol than in controls. Ethanol consumption did not result in increased lipid peroxidation as assessed by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances. The ethanol-induced effects on the activities of the superoxide dismutases may be a reflection of available metals and/or a response to increased hepatic concentration of oxygen radicals. Because the protection afforded by the glutathione system was altered, pigs fed ethanol may be at risk of peroxidative damage with continued ethanol exposure.

Copper status and adriamycin treatment: effects on antioxidant status in mice

The biochemical response of Cu-sufficient and Cu-deficient mice to adriamycin (ADR) treatment was evaluated. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with ADR (17 mg/kg body wt.) or saline (0.9% w/v) and killed 4 d after injection. There was no effect of ADR on cardiac superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in Cu-sufficient of Cu-deficient mice. ADR injection resulted in higher cardiac glutathione (GSH) concentrations in Cu-sufficient mice while it resulted in lower GSH concentrations in Cu-deficient mice relative to their saline-injected controls. The effects of ADR in Cu-deficient mice were tissue-specific as its administration resulted in lower hepatic SOD activity and higher hepatic GSH concentrations relative to saline-injected controls.

Localization of bismuth radiotracer in rat kidney following exposure to bismuth

It has been proposed that alpha emitting 212Bi (t1/2 = 60 min) coupled to tumor-specific antibodies may be a useful radiotherapeutic agent. However, since Bi can accumulate in the kidney, it is necessary to characterize the factors influencing localization of Bi within this tissue in order to evaluate the potential for radiation damage to the renal system. In this study, the localization of Bi radiotracers was determined in kidneys of rats previously exposed and not exposed to mumole quantities of Bi. Following repeated injection of Bi (4 x 14 mumols (3 mg Bi)/kg bw) the element accumulated mainly in the kidney followed by liver, spleen, pancreas, bone, and brain. Kidney copper and liver zinc concentrations were higher in Bi-exposed rats than in non-exposed rats. Within the cytosol, in Bi-exposed rats, Bi radiotracer in the kidney was associated with a metallothionein-like protein (Mt). In contrast, non-exposed rats contained no detectable metallothionein-like proteins in the kidney and the Bi tracer was associated with the hemoglobin fraction of the cell. Thus, when Bi is administered in tracer quantities such as that incorporated for use as a radiopharmaceutical, no induction of, and association with, metallothionein-like proteins should occur. These results suggest that the potential nephrotic effects of 212Bi will be influenced by the individual's previous exposure to Bi-containing drugs, or other metallothionein-inducing insults.

Superoxide dismutase activity in lung from copper- and manganese-deficient mice exposed to ozone

Nutritional manganese (Mn) or copper (Cu) deficiency was investigated in Swiss-Webster mice exposed to ozone (O3). Mice rendered Mn-deficient were first reared from Mn-deficient dams and then fed a Mn-deficient (1 microgram/g) diet. Mice rendered Cu-deficient were fed a diet containing 0.2 microgram Cu/g diet. Control mice were fed a diet containing Mn at 45 micrograms/g and Cu at 8 micrograms/g. During the last week of the experiment (week 7, post-weanling), mice in each group were exposed continuously to 1.2 ppm O3 or filtered air for 7 days. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in lung was then estimated. In mice breathing filtered air, neither lung Cu,Zn- nor Mn-SOD activity (U/g) was affected by diet. In O3-exposed mice, however, Mn-SOD activity was lower in the Mn-deficient group and Cu, Zn-SOD activity was lower in the Cu-deficient group. Moreover, total lung Cu,Zn-SOD activity was elevated in the Mn-deficient mice, whereas total Mn-SOD activity was elevated in the Cu-deficient mice in response to O3. These data indicate that under normal circumstances lung Cu,Zn-SOD and Mn-SOD are not affected by Cu or Mn deficiency. However, when an oxidant stress is superimposed on the Cu- or Mn-deficient condition, Cu,Zn- and Mn-SOD activities are impaired.

Influence of ethanol consumption on maternal-fetal transfer of zinc in pregnant rats on day 14 of pregnancy

The hypothesis that a biochemical lesion underlying the development of fetal alcohol syndrome is an ethanol-induced reduction in placental zinc transfer was tested. Placental zinc transfer was assessed in control and ethanol-fed dams on d 14-15 of pregnancy. Litters from ethanol-fed dams were characterized by a high resorption frequency and fewer live fetuses per litter than litters from control dams. In addition, fetuses from the ethanol-fed dams weighed less than control fetuses. However, despite the negative effects of ethanol intake on litter outcome, placental and fetal retention of 65Zn was similar in the two groups. Therefore, an ethanol-induced fetal zinc deficiency does not seem to have a role in the production of the gross structural malformations associated with fetal alcohol syndrome when adequate zinc is provided in the diet.