Effect of sulfuric acid hydrolysis on the structure and Pickering emulsifying capacity of acorn starch

The acid-hydrolyzed acorn starch samples (HAS-1, HAS-2, HAS-3, and HAS-4) were prepared from natural acorn starch (NAS) at sulfuric acid concentrations of 1, 2, 3, and 4 mol/L for 2 d. The particle characteristics and structures of HAS were investigated, and Pickering high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) based on HAS were constructed and characterized. The results showed that with an increase in sulfuric acid concentration, the size, yield, amylose content, molecular weight, and amylopectin chain length of HAS gradually decreased. HAS retained an A-type crystal structure, and its relative crystallinity and short-range order degree gradually increased with increasing sulfuric acid concentration. Acid hydrolysis treatment improved the wettability of NAS, and its effect was positively correlated with the sulfuric acid concentration. HAS-3 and HAS-4 could stabilize the Pickering HIPEs with an oil phase volume fraction of 80% at c ≥ 1.5%. The mechanical properties of the HIPEs were positively correlated with c.

Ultrasound-assisted fabrication and stability evaluation of okra seed protein stabilized nanoemulsion

The structure and functional properties of okra seed protein (OSP) were characterized, the ultrasonic homogenization process of OSP nano-emulsion was optimized by response surface methodology (RSM), and its stability was also evaluated in this study. The results suggested that OSP was a high-quality plant protein, rich in glutamic acid. The molecular weight of its main subunits distributed in the range of 10-55 kDa, and some subunits were connected by disulfide bonds. Although the water and oil holding capacities of OSP were inferior to those of soy protein isolate (SPI), its emulsifying ability was superior to that of SPI. And the OSP concentration, ultrasonic time and ultrasonic power had obvious effects on the droplet size of nanoemulsion. The optimum process of OSP emulsion was determined as follows: OSP concentration 2.4 %, ultrasonic power 600 W, ultrasonic time 340 s. Under these conditions, the median droplet size of the nanoemulsion was 192.03 ± 3.48 nm, close to the predicted value (191.195 nm). And the obtained nano-emulsion exhibited high stability to the changes of pH, temperature and ionic strength in the environment. Our results can provide reference for the application of OSP, and promote the development of plant protein-based nanoemulsions.

Characterization of Wei Safflower Seed Oil Using Cold-Pressing and Solvent Extraction

Wei safflower seed oil (WSO) prepared by the cold pressing method and organic solvent extraction method was characterized in this study. The yield of cold-pressed WSO (CP-WSO) was inferior to that of n-hexane-extracted WSO (HE-WSO). The physicochemical properties (refractive index, density, iodine value, insoluble impurities) and fatty acid compositions were similar, and both were rich in linoleic acid. However, CP-WSO had better color and less solvent residue. The type and content of vitamin E in CP-WSO was also superior to that in HE-WSO, which explained the high oxidative stability of CP-WSO in the Rancimat test. Our results provide a reference for the development of Wei safflower seed oil.

The physicochemical properties and Pickering emulsifying capacity of acorn starch

In this work, the granule characteristics, functional properties, in-vitro digestibility, antioxidant capacity, and phenolic composition of acorn starch were investigated and compared to those of potato starch and corn starch, and its Pickering emulsifying ability was also evaluated. The results showed that the acorn starch granules were spherical and oval in shape, with a smaller particle size, and the amylose content and crystallinity degree were similar to those of corn starch. However, the acorn starch was difficult to swell, with poor aqueous solubility, though it had a strong gel strength and setback viscosity. Because acorn starch contained more free and bound polyphenols, its resistant starch content after cooking and ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activities were significantly higher than those of potato starch and corn starch. Acorn starch also exhibited outstanding particle wettability and could stabilize Pickering emulsions. The assessed emulsion showed an outstanding effect for protecting β-carotene against ultraviolet irradiation and was positively correlated with the acorn starch addition amount. The obtained results may serve as a reference for the further development of acorn starch.

Formation mechanism of Pickering emulsion gels stabilized by proanthocyanidin particles: Experimental and molecular dynamics studies

The feasibility of constructing a Pickering emulsion gel with proanthocyanidin particles (PAP) was evaluated in this study, and the related mechanism was revealed by combining instrumental characterization with molecular dynamics simulation. The results showed that PAP was composed of nano/micron spherical particles or their fragments, which had excellent wettability. Suitable PAP addition amount (w, ≥1%) and oil volume fraction (φ, 40-90 %) were beneficial to the formation of stable Pickering emulsion gel. The oil droplet size of gel was inversely proportional to w and φ. The mechanical parameters (gel strength, loss modulus, and storage modulus) were positively correlated with w and φ. Molecular dynamics simulation indicated that the proanthocyanidin molecules in the oil-water system could spontaneously reside and aggregate at the interface, and their interactions with water and oil reduced interfacial tension, which was consistent with the experimental results. This study provides a reference for other polyphenol-based Pickering emulsions.

Relationship of resting heart rate and blood pressure with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate associations of resting heart rate (RHR) and blood pressure (BP) with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

A total of 67,028 Chinese participants aged ≥60 years were included in the analysis. RHR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were evaluated according to quartiles ([41-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-127 beats/min], [80-119, 120-129, 130-139, 140-238 mm Hg], and [40-70, 71-79, 80-84, 85-133 mm Hg]). Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of all-cause and CVD mortality with RHR, SBP, and DBP. Restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate the dose-response association.

RESULTS

During the 361,975 person-year follow-up, 9326 deaths were recorded, of which 5039 deaths were due to CVD. The risk of all-cause mortality was increased by 25% with the quartiles four vs quartile one of RHR (HR [95% CI]:1.25 [1.17-1.33]), and CVD mortality was increased by 32% (HR [95% CI]: 1.32 [1.22-1.44]). Similar results were observed when comparing the quartiles four vs quartile one of SBP with the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality (HRs [95% CIs]: 1.14 [1.07, 1.22] and 1.23 [1.12. 1.34]) and DBP with the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality (HRs [95% CIs]: 1.17 [1.11. 1.24] and 1.36 [1.26. 1.47]). We found linear associations of RHR, SBP, and DBP with all-cause and CVD mortality (P_{non-linearity} >0.05), except for the approximately J-shaped association between DBP and all-cause mortality (P_{non-linearity} = 0.008). There was a significant interaction of RHR and SBP with all-cause and CVD mortality (P_interaction <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

RHR and BP increased the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality, especially fast RHR combined with high SBP.

Fabrication of food-grade Pickering high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) stabilized by a dihydromyricetin and lysozyme mixture

This study evaluated the feasibility of fabricating food-grade HIPEs using a dihydromyricetin and lysozyme mixture. The effects of the oil phase volume fraction (φ), composition (lysozyme:dihydromyricetin, k), and addition amount (w) of the mixture on the formation and properties of the HIPEs were analyzed. Then, the interactions of dihydromyricetin and lysozyme were investigated. The results indicated that when w was 0.4%, HIPEs with φ value of 90% could be obtained. Furthermore, the k also affected the microstructure, mechanical properties, oil oxidation, and lutein protection ability of the HIPEs. However, the presence of dihydromyricetin did not affect lysozyme activity. Both isothermal titration calorimetry and molecular simulations proved that they did not form a typical host-guest complex. But, dihydromyricetin could absorb on the lysozyme surface. Therefore, we speculated that lysozyme and dihydromyricetin particles could overlap and form a 3D network structure to stabilize the HIPEs, which was consistent with the microstructure observations.

Computational Methods for the Interaction between Cyclodextrins and Natural Compounds: Technology, Benefits, Limitations, and Trends

Cyclodextrins (CDs) have a hollow structure with a hydrophobic interior and hydrophilic exterior. Forming inclusion complexes with CDs will maximize the bioavailability of natural compounds and enable active components to be processed into functional foods, medicines, additives, and so forth. However, experimental methods cannot explain CD-guest binding at the atomic level. Different models have been recently developed to simulate the interaction between CDs and guests to study the binding conformation and analyze noncovalent forces. This review paper summarizes modeling methods of CD-natural compound complexes. The methods include quantitative structure-activity relationships, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum-chemical calculations. The applications of these methods to enhance the solubility and bioactivities of guest molecules, assist material transportation, and promote compound extraction are also discussed. The purpose of this review is to explore interaction mechanisms of CDs and guests and to help expand new applications of CDs.

Ultrasound-Assisted Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent Extraction and Bioactivities of Flavonoids in Ampelopsis grossedentata Leaves

We performed ultrasound-assisted extraction coupled with natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) to achieve the green and efficient preparation of flavonoid extract from Ampelopsis grossedentata leaves. We then evaluated its antioxidant and antiproliferative activities. A NADES consisting of choline chloride and glucose at a molar ratio of 4:1 with 20% water was determined to be the most suitable solvent. The optimal extraction conditions were: a liquid-to-solid ratio of 30 mL/g, an ultrasonication power of 490 W, and an ultrasonication time of 6.5 min. The actual flavonoid yield was 83.93%, which was close to the predicted yield. Further, 86.75% of the flavonoids were recovered by adding the same volume of phosphate buffer saline (100 mM, pH of 7.0) to the extract solution. Although the chemical antioxidant activities of the flavonoid extract were slightly inferior to those of dihydromyricetin, the flavonoid extract could still effectively inhibit the proliferation of human breast MDA-MB-231 cells by inducing cell apoptosis, retarding the cell cycle, changing the mitochondrial membrane potential and scavenging intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The obtained results can provide a reference in the development of plant-derived functional foods.

A253 IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC LOCKDOWN ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE IN QUEBEC

Background

An average daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) of at least 60 minutes was recommended by the Canadian Guidelines for children. Because of lockdown restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining physical activity levels (PAL) has been a challenge for youth.

Aims

The primary aim of this study was to compare MVPA levels in children with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) before and after this period. The secondary aims were to assess clinical factors that might influence any changes in MVPA patterns.

Methods

Patients with IBD, age ≥5 years, were enrolled in a prospective study on PAL starting June 2018 (self-reported questionnaires during outpatient visits). They were then surveyed online at the end of the second lockdown in July-August 2021. PAL were assessed with the Canadian Health Measure Survey Children-Physical Activity Questionnaire. The responses were converted into metabolic equivalents of tasks by using validated tables. Influence of clinical factors of IBD on changes in MVPA was assessed. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to investigate the association between several risk factors and PAL.

Results

We included 72 patients (38 males; mean (SD) age 17.0 (2.89) years, 48 (66.7%) diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, 19 (26.4%) with ulcerative colitis, and 5 (6.9%) with indeterminate colitis). At last follow-up, 90.3% were in clinical remission according to validated disease activity score. During summer 2021, 16.7% of patients reached the Canadian PAL target, compared to 38.9% before the pandemic. The median daily duration of MVPA in summer 2021 decreased from 37 (Interquartile range (IQR) = 3–82) to 21 (IQR=3–40) minutes. The proportion of sedentary patients increased by 1.4% (37.5% to 38.9%). The proportion of extremely active patients decreased by 16.7% (27.8% to 11.1%), while moderately active patients increased by 20.9% (8.3% to 29.2%). Age, gender, disease type and activity were not significantly associated with the PAL at baseline or at follow-up.

Conclusions

This study found a significant decrease in PAL and time spent doing MVPA in children with IBD in Quebec following the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. While the recommended target was far from being met before the pandemic, the gap has widened further during the pandemic. We found no clinical factors associated with the PAL. The impact of low PAL on well-being, weight, disease activity and quality of life will be assessed during the follow-up of this cohort.

Funding Agencies

None

Preparation and characterization of a dihydromyricetin-sugar beet pectin covalent polymer

A dihydromyricetin (DMY)-sugar beet pectin (SBP) covalent polymer was prepared using an alkaline method for the first time, and its structure and physicochemical properties were characterized. The results showed that the molecular weight, total phenol content, and ABTS radical scavenging ability of the polymer were positively correlated with DMY dosage. The polymer inhibited α-glucosidase in a mixed non-competitive and anti-competitive inhibition manner, and its inhibition performance depended on the total phenol content. Its maximum inhibitory activity was much higher than that of DMY, which was attributed to its strong protein binding capacity. The stability and β-carotene protective effects of the nano-emulsions stabilized with the DMY-SBP polymers were also positively correlated to the total phenol content and were superior to those stabilized by SBP. Therefore, the results obtained in this study may improve our functional understanding of natural polyphenol-polysaccharide polymers and promote the development of new nutraceuticals.

Laccase Catalyzed Oxidative Polymerization of Phloridzin: Polymer Characterization, Antioxidant Capacity and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity

Phloridzin is a naturally occurring dihydrochalcone with various therapeutic properties. However, its low aqueous solubility and poor enzyme inhibitory capacity have limited its application in functional foods and medicines. Inspections of the properties of natural polymeric flavonoids suggest that these limitations could be mitigated by the polymerization of phloridzin, although to date, no relevant studies have been conducted. Here, oxidative polymerization was used to prepare polymeric phloridzin using laccase as the catalyst, and its structure, antioxidant capacity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity were characterized. The results showed that laccase catalyzed polymerization via oxidative generation of phenolic radicals in the B ring of phloridzin to achieve the polymerization. The 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) radical scavenging capacity of the polymer (IC50, 0.48 mg/mL) was inferior to that of phloridzin (IC50, 0.20 mg/mL), but the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the polymer (IC50, 0.12 mg/mL) was significantly higher than that of phloridzin (IC50, 0.21 mg/mL). These effects could be attributed to the reduction of available phenolic groups and binding of the polymer to the enzyme, respectively.

The efficacy and safety of dupilumab in Chinese patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Dupilumab is an antibody against interleukin 4 receptor α, used in treating atopic dermatitis (AD).

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dupilumab in adult Chinese patients with moderate-to-severe AD.

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, phase III study, conducted between December 2018 and February 2020, patients with AD received dupilumab (300mg) or placebo once every 2 weeks for 16 weeks, and were followed up for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients with both Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) score of 0-1 and a reduction from baseline of ≥2 points at week 16.

RESULTS

Overall, 165 patients (mean age: 30.6 years; 71.5% male) were randomized: 82 to dupilumab and 83 to placebo. At week 16, 26.8% of patients in the dupilumab group and 4.8% of patients in the placebo group achieved the primary endpoint (difference, 22.0%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.37-32.65%; p<0.0001). Compared with placebo, higher proportions of patients in the dupilumab group achieved ≥75% reduction in the Eczema Area and Severity Index score (57.3% vs 14.5%; difference, 42.9%; 95% CI, 29.75-55.97%; p<0.0001) and had ≥3-point (52.4% vs 9.6%; difference, 42.8%; 95% CI, 30.26-55.34%; p<0.0001) and ≥4-point (39.0% vs 4.8%; difference, 34.2%; 95% CI, 22.69-45.72%; p<0.0001) reductions in weekly average daily peak daily pruritus numerical rating scale scores. The incidence of TEAEs during the treatment period was similar in the two groups. The incidence of conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and injection site reaction was higher in the dupilumab group than in the placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS

In adult Chinese patients, dupilumab was effective in improving the signs and symptoms of AD and demonstrated a favorable safety profile.

Fabrication of food-grade Pickering high internal phase emulsions stabilized by the mixture of β-cyclodextrin and sugar beet pectin

Food-grade Pickering high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) stabilized by a mixture of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and sugar beet pectin (SBP) were fabricated for the first time. The factors affecting the microstructures, mechanical properties, and stabilities of the Pickering HIPEs were systematically investigated. The corresponding hybrid particles were also separated and characterized to reveal the formation mechanism. The results indicated that the mixture could induce the formation of HIPEs with an oil phase volume fraction (φ) of 75% using a one-step high-speed shearing process at room temperature. The composition (the mass ratio of β-CD to SBP, R_c/s) and concentration (W) of the mixture had significant effects on the formation and properties of HIPEs. When W ≥ 1.0% and R_c/s = 2:2 or 3:1, HIPEs had smaller oil droplets, higher gel strengths, better centrifugation stabilities and lutein protection effects. The spectral analysis suggested that SBP could adhere to the surface of β-CD particles to form hybrid particles during the homogenization. Compared with native β-CD particles, these hybrid particles had higher ζ-potential absolute values, and the SBP could also increase the viscosity of the aqueous phase, which contributed to the formation and properties of these HIPEs.

Multi-scale stabilization mechanism of pickering emulsion gels based on dihydromyricetin/high-amylose corn starch composite particles

For Pickering emulsifying effect, starch must be subjected to the pretreatments of acid hydrolysis, esterification, which are complicated and eco-unfriendly. In this study, a practical and green strategyto fabricate Pickering emulsion gels with dihydromyricetin (DMY)/high-amylose corn starch (HCS) composite particles was introduced for the first time. The DMY content in composite particles and the amount of addition of composite particles had obvious synergistic effect on the formation and properties of emulsion gels. The obtained emulsion gels were not sensitive to ionic strength, which could be attributed to emulsifying capacity and viscosity effect of composite particles. The spectral analysis confirmed the presence of DMY/amylose host-guest supramolecules. The molecular simulation of the supramolecular complexes in the oil-water system indicated that these complexes could spontaneously aggregate and anchor to the oil-water interface, reducing the interfacial tension. Based on experimental and theoretical results, the multi-scale relationship of "molecular interaction-particle characteristics-gel properties" was established.

Fabrication and characterization of novel edible Pickering emulsion gels stabilized by dihydromyricetin

The edible Pickering emulsion gels stabilized by dihydromyricetin were fabricated for the first time. To clarify the formation mechanism, dihydromyricetin particles were first characterized. Then, the factors influencingthe gel formation, microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated. Finally, the molecular dynamics simulation was performed to clarify the microscopic behavior of dihydromyricetin in an oil-water system. The results indicated that dihydromyricetin particles occurred as regular rod-shaped crystals with amphiphilicity. They formed a 3D steric network by overlapping with each other, separating oil droplets and stabilizing O/W emulsion gels. The dihydromyricetin concentration and oil-phase weight fraction had a significant influence on the formation and mechanical properties of gels. The alkali and low ionic strength conditions benefited the gel stability. The molecular dynamics showed that dihydromyricetin could spontaneously and quickly transfer to the oil-water interface, reduce the interfacialtension and enhance the interface thickness, which agreed with the experimental results.

Three common caffeoylquinic acids as potential hypoglycemic nutraceuticals: Evaluation of α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and glucose consumption in HepG2 cells

The demand for plant-derived antidiabetic nutraceuticals is increasing. In this study, the effects of three common caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) (chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, and cynarin) on α-glucosidase activity and glucose consumption in HepG2 cells were systematically compared. Their α-glucosidase inhibitory activities followed the order of isochlorogenic acid A > chlorogenic acid > cynarin. The fluorescence analysis indicated that they exerted the inhibitory role by forming the complex with α-glucosidase at the molar ratio of 1:1. Isochlorogenic acid A possessed the highest binding capacity, followed by chlorogenic acid and cynarin. The effect of caffeoyl group distribution on the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity was clarified by the molecular docking results. In the HepG2 cells, isochlorogenic acid A also showed the best glucose consumption with negligible cytotoxicity, which might be related to its reactive oxygen species scavenging capacity in cells. Our results confirm its potential application as the antidiabetic nutraceutical. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The hypoglycemic activities of three common CQAs (chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, and cynarin) were systemically evaluated in this study. Isochlorogenic acid A exhibited the strongest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and highest glucose consumption in HepG2 cells with low cytotoxicity. The results suggest that isochlorogenic acid A can be used as the potential hypoglycemic nutraceutical in functional foods.

MRI Signal Intensity and Electron Ultrastructure Classification Predict the Long-Term Outcome of Skull Base Chordomas

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

MR imaging is a useful and widely used evaluation for chordomas. Prior studies have classified chordomas into cell-dense type and matrix-rich type according to the ultrastructural features. However, the relationship between the MR imaging signal intensity and ultrastructural classification is unknown. We hypothesized that MR imaging signal intensity may predict both tumor ultrastructural classification and prognosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-nine patients with skull base chordomas who underwent 95 operations were included in this retrospective single-center series. Preoperative tumor-to-pons MR imaging signal intensity ratios were calculated and designated as ratio on T1 FLAIR sequence (R_T1), ratio on T2 sequence (R_T2), and ratio on enhanced T1 FLAIR sequence (R_EN), respectively. We assessed the relationships among signal intensity ratios, ultrastructural classification, and survival.

RESULTS

Compared with the matrix-rich type group, the cell-dense type chordomas showed lower R_T2 (cell-dense type: 1.90 ± 0.38; matrix-rich type: 2.61 ± 0.60 P < .001). The model of predicting cell-dense type based on R_T2 had an area under the curve of 0.83 (95% CI, 0.75-0.92). In patients without radiation therapy, both progression-free survival (P = .003) and overall survival (P = .002) were longer in the matrix-rich type group than in the cell-dense type group. R_EN was a risk factor for progression-free survival (hazard ratio = 10.24; 95% CI, 1.73-60.79); R_T2 was a protective factor for overall survival (hazard ratio  = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.12-0.87); and R_EN was a risk factor for overall survival (hazard ratio = 4.76; 95% CI, 1.51-15.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The difference in MR imaging signal intensity in chordomas can be explained by electron microscopic features. Both signal intensity ratios and electron microscopic features may be prognostic factors.

Structuring of sunflower oil by stearic acid derivatives: Experimental and molecular modelling studies

Structuring of vegetable oils has potential application in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. In this study, structuring effects of stearic acid derivatives on sunflower seed oil were systematically investigated by experimental and molecular simulation methods. Stearic acid (SA), 12-hydroxy stearic acid (HSA) and 2-hydroxyethyl stearate (HES) were able to structure sunflower seed oil, among which the structuring ability of HES was reported for the first time. The oleogel formed with HSA exhibited good mechanical properties (such as hardness, fracturability, adhesiveness, chewiness and storage modulus), which coincided with its highest solid fat content and degree of crystallinity. Oleogels containing SA and HES showed similar mechanical properties. Both the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and independent gradient model (IGM) confirmed that the HSA dimer possessed the strongest interaction during the self-assembly process while the dimers of HES and SA had similar interactions, which could explain their structuring performance.

A256 TRENDS IN THE PREVALENCE AND SEVERITY OF ANEMIA IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS WITH INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE IN THE LAST DECADE

Background

Anemia is one of the most common extraintestinal manifestations in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at diagnosis. Studies have shown that anemia was associated with low levels of quality of life, which improves with the correction of anemia in adults. Recent data have shown an increase in the incidence and severity of pediatric IBD.

Aims

To investigate the prevalence of anemia in children at diagnosis of IBD and the trends in the past decade. The secondary aim was to investigate the associations between hemoglobin (Hb) levels and disease characteristics.

Methods

Eligible patients (age ≤18 years, diagnosed with IBD from 2009 to 2018) were retrospectively identified through our IBD database. Disease localization and phenotype were defined according to the Paris Classification of IBD. Anemia was defined by Hb levels according to WHO targets. The annual prevalence of anemia was calculated according to subtype (inflammatory vs iron deficiency). The Pediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (PCDAI) and the Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index (PUCAI) were used to assess the disease severity at diagnosis.

Results

We included 887 patients (439 females), mean (SD) age of 13.1 (3.4) years. Of these, 519 (58.5%) were identified with anemia within 30 days of diagnosis. The median (IQR) Hb level was 108 (98 -114) g/dL. Severe anemia (&lt; 70 g/dL) was present in 1.8 % of patients. The prevalence of anemia at diagnosis remained relatively stable ranging from 60.2% in 2009 to 60.4% in 2018. The annual proportion of inflammatory vs iron-deficiency anemia is displayed in figure 1. Anemia was more prevalent in Crohn’s disease (CD) (62.2%) than Ulcerative colitis (UC) (57.9%) or IBD-unclassified (39.6%). The disease severity scores were higher in those with anemia. The median (IQR) PCDAI and PUCAI were respectively 37.5 (27.5–47.5) and 55.0 (40.0–65.0) in the anemic group as compared to 27.5 (20.0–37.50) and 35.0 (25.0–55.0) in the non-anemic group; P&lt;0.0001. Patients with anemia had a lower BMI z-score [median (IQR) -0.84 (-1.84 - 0.08)] than the non-anemic patients [median (IQR) -0.38 (-1.21 - 0.43)]; P&lt;0.001. The prevalence of anemia correlated significantly with disease location: upper intestinal involvement [L4a(67.7%) L4b(63.6%) L4aL4b(60.7%) none (52.8%)] P = 0.024 for CD; for UC [E1(21.1%) E2(44.4%) E3(75.0%) E4 (71.1%)] P&lt;0.0001. A moderate correlation was found between Hb levels and C-reactive protein (r= -0.312, 95% CI: -0.378 to -0.243, P&lt;0.0001).

Conclusions

Anemia remains a prevalent symptom in pediatric patients with IBD, and it is correlated with the extent of intestinal involvement and disease severity. The impact of anemia at Diagnosis and during follow-up on the levels of quality of life and physical activity is currently under investigation.

Funding Agencies

None

Parathyroid hormone independently predicts fracture, vascular events, and death in patients with stage 3 and 4 chronic kidney disease

Doctors do not know whether treatment of high parathyroid hormone levels is linked to better outcomes in their patients with kidney disease. In this study, lower parathyroid hormone levels at baseline were linked to lower risk of fracture, vascular events, and death in people with kidney disease.

PURPOSE

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects ~ 20% of older adults, and secondary hyperparathyroidism (HPT) is a common condition in these patients. To what degree HPT predicts fractures, vascular events, and mortality in pre-dialysis CKD patients is debated. In stage 3 and 4 CKD patients, we assessed relationships between baseline serum PTH levels and subsequent 10-year probabilities of clinical fractures, vascular events, and death.

METHODS

We used Marshfield Clinic Health System electronic health records to analyze data from adult CKD patients receiving care between 1985 and 2013, and whose PTH was measured using a second-generation assay. Covariates included PTH, age, gender, tobacco use, vascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity, GFR, and use of osteoporosis medications.

RESULTS

Five thousand one hundred eight subjects had a mean age of 68 ± 17 years, 48% were men, and mean follow-up was 23 ± 10 years. Fractures, vascular events, and death occurred in 18%, 71%, and 56% of the cohort, respectively. In univariate and multivariate models, PTH was an independent predictor of fracture, vascular events, and death. The hazards of fracture, vascular events and death were minimized at a baseline PTH of 0, 69, and 58 pg/mL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that among individuals with stage 3 and 4 CKD, PTH was an independent predictor of fractures, vascular events, and death. Additional epidemiologic studies are needed to confirm these findings. If a target PTH range can be confirmed, then randomized placebo-controlled trials will be needed to confirm that treating HPT reduces the risk of fracture, vascular events, and death.

P14.10 Endoscopic skull base surgery for tumors invading internal carotid artery

BACKGROUND

Internal carotid artery (ICA) injury is a disaster in endoscopic skull base surgery, so protection of internal carotid artery is an essential task. We use 3-dimensional multimodal imaging (3D-MMI) and intraoperative navigation (ION) in endoscopic skull base surgery to locate ICA and decrease ICA injury.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

26 patients underwent endoscopic skull base surgery (pituitary adenomas, chordomas, neurinomas and other tumors invading internal carotid artery) guided by 3D-MMI and ION techniques to locate ICA.

RESULTS

In all patients, the 3D-MMI and ION techniques enabled adequate visualization of vascular structures stereoscopically, especially the relationship between lesion and ICA, and suplly real-time navigation to locate ICA during endoscopic skull base surgery. No ICA injury happened and neurosurgeons removed tumors with relaxed mind.

CONCLUSION

3D-MMI and ION techniques were found to be helpful to locate internal carotid artery and decrease ICA injury during endoscopic skull base surgery.

Interaction Mechanism of Flavonoids and α-Glucosidase: Experimental and Molecular Modelling Studies

Flavonoids are known to play a role in hypoglycemia by inhibiting α-glucosidase. However, their interaction mechanism with α-glucosidase still needs to be elaborated. In this study, the α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of 15 flavonoids were investigated. Their molecular volume had a negative effect on inhibitory activity, while the number of phenolic hydroxyl groups on the B ring was positively correlated with inhibitory activity. To explain the significant differences in activity, the interaction behaviors of myricetin and dihydromyricetin, which have similar structures, were compared by spectrofluorimetry, molecular docking, and the independent gradient model (IGM). In the fluorescence analysis, myricetin exhibited a higher binding capacity. Based on molecular docking and IGM analysis, their non-covalent interactions with α-glucosidase could be visualized and quantified. It was found that they had different binding modes with the enzymes and that myricetin possessed stronger hydrogen bonding and van der Waals force interactions, which explained the thermodynamic results.

Preparation and characterization of lutein ester-loaded oleogels developed by monostearin and sunflower oil

The marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) flower is rich in lutein ester with many health-promoting activities. In this study, the effects of vegetable oil type and extracting the temperature on the extraction efficiency of lutein ester in the marigold flower were evaluated. Then, the structuring of the lutein ester-loaded sunflower oil with the addition of different amounts of monostearin and cooling temperatures (4 and 20°C) was investigated. The XRD analysis suggested that these oleogels were stabilized by the network formed by monostearin crystals in the sunflower oil. The textural properties (firmness, cohesiveness, and hardness) of oleogels were positively related to the monostearin dosage, but negatively related to the cooling temperature. According to the rheological results, the oleogels belonged to the pseudoplastic gel and their gelation temperature (T_g ) was only related to the concentration of monostearin. The light stability of lutein ester in the oleogels was also significantly improved in a monostearin dosage-dependent manner. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The edible lutein ester-loaded oleogel for foods developed by structuring the sunflower oil with monostearin is introduced in this study. Its texture and rheological properties can be adjusted to cater to different requirements in the food industry by changing the monostearin dosage and cooling temperature. This study provides a reference for the development of other liposoluble nutraceuticals.

Hypervelocity cluster ion impacts on free standing graphene: Experiment, theory, and applications

We present results from experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations obtained with C₆₀ and Au₄₀₀ impacting on free-standing graphene, graphene oxide (GO), and graphene-supported molecular layers. The experiments were run on custom-built ToF reflectron mass spectrometers with C₆₀ and Au-LMIS sources with acceleration potentials generating 50 keV C₆₀ ²⁺ and 440-540 keV Au₄₀₀ ⁴⁺. Bombardment-detection was in the same mode as MD simulation, i.e., a sequence of individual projectile impacts with separate collection/identification of the ejecta from each impact in either the forward (transmission) or backward (reflection) direction. For C₆₀ impacts on single layer graphene, the secondary ion (SI) yields for C₂ and C₄ emitted in transmission are ∼0.1 (10%). Similar yields were observed for analyte-specific ions from submonolayer deposits of phenylalanine. MD simulations show that graphene acts as a trampoline, i.e., they can be ejected without destruction. Another topic investigated dealt with the chemical composition of free-standing GO. The elemental composition was found to be approximately COH₂. We have also studied the impact of Au₄₀₀ clusters on graphene. Again SI yields were high (e.g., 1.25 C^-/impact). 90-100 Au atoms evaporate off the exiting projectile which experiences an energy loss of ∼72 keV. The latter is a summation of energy spent on rupturing the graphene, ejecting carbon atoms and clusters and a dipole projectile/hole interaction. The charge distribution of the exiting projectiles is ∼50% neutrals and ∼25% either negatively or positively charged. We infer that free-standing graphene enables detection of attomole to zeptomole deposits of analyte via cluster-SI mass spectrometry.

Species-specific aggregation pheromones contribute to coexistence in two closely related thrips species

Pheromones play an important role in mediating interspecific interactions in insects. In an insect community, pheromones can reveal information about the senders, which could be used by other members of the food web (competitor, natural enemies, etc.) to their own advantage. The aggregation pheromones of two closely related thrips species, Frankliniella occidentalis and Frankliniella intonsa, have been identified with the same major compounds, (R)-lavandulyl acetate and neryl (S)-2-methylbutanoate, but in different ratios. However, the roles of the aggregation pheromones in the interspecific interactions between these two closely related species are unknown. Here, we investigated the roles of major aggregation pheromone compounds in interspecific interactions between F. occidentalis and F. intonsa for both long and short ranges. The results showed that, at tested doses, neither aggregation pheromone-induced long range cross-attraction nor short range cross-mating was detected between F. occidentalis and F. intonsa. Field-trapping trials showed that the species-specificity in aggregation pheromones was regulated by the ratio of two major compounds. However, species-specific blends of the two major compounds had no effect on short-range interactions between these two species. Our data from the thrips species provide support for the 'aggregation model of coexistence', explaining the species-specific pheromone-mediated coexistence of closely related species. Thus, species-specific pheromones could be one of the factors affecting population dynamics and community structure in closely related insects with similar niches.

Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities of Fisetin

Fisetin is a flavonoid widespread in vegetables, fruits and medicinal plants. The in vitro antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of fisetin were systemically investigated in this study. The DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging performance of fisetin was higher than that of BHA. In the ORAC and PSC assays, fisetin also exhibited strong antioxidant activity. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of fisetin (IC50, 9.38±0.35 μg/mL) was significantly superior to that of acarbose (IC50, 1.07±0.15 mg/mL). Its inhibition type was determined to be a mixed competitive and non-competitive inhibition mode. Molecular docking analysis suggested it could exert the α-glucosidase inhibitory role by forming hydrogen bonds with the TRP391, ASP392, ARG428 and ASP568 residues of α-glucosidase.