Elderberry Leaves with Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties as a Valuable Plant Material for Wound Healing

Sambuci folium (elderberry leaves) have been used in traditional medicine, mainly externally, to treat skin diseases and wounds. Therefore, the aim of this study was to screen the biological activity of elderberry leaves (antioxidant potential and possibility of inhibition of tyrosinase and hyaluronidase enzymes) combined with phytochemical analysis. For this purpose, a phytochemical analysis was carried out. Elderberry leaves of 12 varieties ("Sampo", "Obelisk", "Dwubarwny", "Haschberg", "Haschberg 1", "Koralowy", "Sambo", "Black Beauty", "Black Tower", "Golden hybrid", "Samyl", "Samyl 1") in two growth stages. The compounds from the selected groups, phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid) and flavonols (quercetin), were chromatographically determined in hydroalcoholic leaf extracts. All tested elderberry leaf extracts showed antioxidant effects, but the most promising potential: very high compounds content (TPC = 61.85 mg GAE/g), antioxidant (e.g., DPPH IC50 = 1.88 mg/mL; CUPRAC IC0.5 = 0.63 mg/mL) and optimal anti-inflammatory (inhibition of hyaluronidase activity 41.28%) activities were indicated for older leaves of the "Sampo" variety. Additionally, the extract obtained from "Sampo" and "Golden hybrid" variety facilitated the treatment of wounds in the scratch test. In summary, the best multidirectional pro-health effect in treating skin inflammation was specified for "Sampo" leaves II extract (leaves during the flowering period); however, wound treatment was noted as rich in chlorogenic acid younger leaf extracts of the "Golden hybrid" variety.

Antimicrobial, Probiotic, and Immunomodulatory Potential of Cannabis sativa Extract and Delivery Systems

The compounds present in hemp show multidirectional biological activity. It is related to the presence of secondary metabolites, mainly cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, and the synergy of their biological activity. The aim of this study was to assess the activity of the Henola Cannabis sativae extract and its combinations with selected carriers (polyvinyl caprolactam-polyvinyl acetate-polyethylene glycol graft copolymer, magnesium aluminometasilicate, and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin) in terms of antimicrobial, probiotic, and immunobiological effects. As a result of the conducted research, the antimicrobial activity of the extract was confirmed in relation to the following microorganisms: Clostridium difficile, Listeria monocytogenes, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pyrogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhimurium, Pseudomonas aereuginosa, and Candida albicans (microorganism count was reduced from ~102 CFU mL-1 to <10 CFU mL-1 in most cases). Additionally, for the system with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin, a significant probiotic potential against bacterial strains was established for strains Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Streptococcus thermophilus (microorganism count was increased from ~102 to 104-107). In terms of immunomodulatory properties, it was determined that the tested extract and the systems caused changes in IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α levels.

Machine Learning Analysis of the Impact of Silver Nitrate and Silver Nanoparticles on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.): Callus Induction, Plant Regeneration, and DNA Methylation

The objective of this study was to comprehend the efficiency of wheat regeneration, callus induction, and DNA methylation through the application of mathematical frameworks and artificial intelligence (AI)-based models. This research aimed to explore the impact of treatments with AgNO3 and Ag-NPs on various parameters. The study specifically concentrated on analyzing RAPD profiles and modeling regeneration parameters. The treatments and molecular findings served as input variables in the modeling process. It included the use of AgNO3 and Ag-NPs at different concentrations (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 mg L-1). The in vitro and epigenetic characteristics were analyzed using several machine learning (ML) methods, including support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), k-nearest neighbor classifier (KNN), and Gaussian processes classifier (GP) methods. This study's results revealed that the highest values for callus induction (CI%) and embryogenic callus induction (EC%) occurred at a concentration of 2 mg L-1 of Ag-NPs. Additionally, the regeneration efficiency (RE) parameter reached its peak at a concentration of 8 mg L-1 of AgNO3. Taking an epigenetic approach, AgNO3 at a concentration of 2 mg L-1 demonstrated the highest levels of genomic template stability (GTS), at 79.3%. There was a positive correlation seen between increased levels of AgNO3 and DNA hypermethylation. Conversely, elevated levels of Ag-NPs were associated with DNA hypomethylation. The models were used to estimate the relationships between the input elements, including treatments, concentration, GTS rates, and Msp I and Hpa II polymorphism, and the in vitro output parameters. The findings suggested that the XGBoost model exhibited superior performance scores for callus induction (CI), as evidenced by an R2 score of 51.5%, which explained the variances. Additionally, the RF model explained 71.9% of the total variance and showed superior efficacy in terms of EC%. Furthermore, the GP model, which provided the most robust statistics for RE, yielded an R2 value of 52.5%, signifying its ability to account for a substantial portion of the total variance present in the data. This study exemplifies the application of various machine learning models in the cultivation of mature wheat embryos under the influence of treatments and concentrations involving AgNO3 and Ag-NPs.

Previous fracture and subsequent fracture risk: a meta-analysis to update FRAX

A large international meta-analysis using primary data from 64 cohorts has quantified the increased risk of fracture associated with a previous history of fracture for future use in FRAX.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to quantify the fracture risk associated with a prior fracture on an international basis and to explore the relationship of this risk with age, sex, time since baseline and bone mineral density (BMD).

METHODS

We studied 665,971 men and 1,438,535 women from 64 cohorts in 32 countries followed for a total of 19.5 million person-years. The effect of a prior history of fracture on the risk of any clinical fracture, any osteoporotic fracture, major osteoporotic fracture, and hip fracture alone was examined using an extended Poisson model in each cohort. Covariates examined were age, sex, BMD, and duration of follow-up. The results of the different studies were merged by using the weighted β-coefficients.

RESULTS

A previous fracture history, compared with individuals without a prior fracture, was associated with a significantly increased risk of any clinical fracture (hazard ratio, HR = 1.88; 95% CI = 1.72-2.07). The risk ratio was similar for the outcome of osteoporotic fracture (HR = 1.87; 95% CI = 1.69-2.07), major osteoporotic fracture (HR = 1.83; 95% CI = 1.63-2.06), or for hip fracture (HR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.62-2.06). There was no significant difference in risk ratio between men and women. Subsequent fracture risk was marginally downward adjusted when account was taken of BMD. Low BMD explained a minority of the risk for any clinical fracture (14%), osteoporotic fracture (17%), and for hip fracture (33%). The risk ratio for all fracture outcomes related to prior fracture decreased significantly with adjustment for age and time since baseline examination.

CONCLUSION

A previous history of fracture confers an increased risk of fracture of substantial importance beyond that explained by BMD. The effect is similar in men and women. Its quantitation on an international basis permits the more accurate use of this risk factor in case finding strategies.

The Dynamics of Sugar Maize (Zea mays saccharata Sturt.) Infestation of Field Pansy (Viola arvensis)

Field pansy infestation can lead to a decrease in the species diversity of plant communities and to the disappearance of other species. Field pansy infestation is fairly common in many crops, including maize. Understanding the ecology and management strategies for field pansy in maize is essential for effective weed control. This research into sugar maize was conducted from 1992 to 2019 in the Research and Education Center Gorzyń, Złotniki branch, which belongs to the Poznań University of Life Sciences. The assessment of weed infestation was carried out in experiments that focused on chemical weed control in maize. The experiments were established as single-factor randomized block designs with four field replications. The aim of the study was to evaluate dynamic changes in the status and the degree of field pansy infestation in sugar maize that was cultivated after various other crops in the Wielkopolska region, with a focus on weather conditions. The results indicated that the probability of field pansy individuals occurring among the total number of weeds was highest when maize was cultivated after wheat, but the probability of such infestation did not significantly differ when maize was sown in a crop rotation after winter triticale.

The Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Potential of Leaves and Inflorescences Extracts of Selected Hemp Varieties Obtained with scCO2

Cannabis sativa, a versatile plant with numerous varieties, holds promising potential for a wide range of biological activity. As raw materials for research, we chose leaves and inflorescences of hemp varieties such as Białobrzeskie, Henola, and Tygra, which are cultivated mainly for their fibers or seeds. The choice of extraction is a key step in obtaining the selected compositions of active compounds from plant material. Bearing in mind the lipophilic nature of cannabinoids, we performed supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) extraction at 50 °C under 2000 (a) and 6000 PSI (b). The cannabinoid contents were determined with the use of the HPLC-DAD method. The antioxidant capabilities were assessed through a series of procedures, including the DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP methods. The capacity to inhibit enzymes that play a role in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and tyrosinase was also studied. The dominant cannabinoids in the extracts were cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). The highest concentration of eight cannabinoids was detected in the Tygra inflorescences extract (b). The most notable antioxidant properties were provided by the Tygra inflorescences extract (b). Nonetheless, it was the Henola inflorescences extract (b) that demonstrated the most efficient inhibition of AChE and BChE, and tyrosinase was inhibited the most significantly by the Białobrzeskie inflorescences extract (b). Multidimensional comparative analysis enrolled all assays and revealed that the Henola inflorescences extract (b) showed the most substantial neuroprotective potential.

Co-Dispersion Delivery Systems with Solubilizing Carriers Improving the Solubility and Permeability of Cannabinoids (Cannabidiol, Cannabidiolic Acid, and Cannabichromene) from Cannabis sativa (Henola Variety) Inflorescences

Cannabinoids: cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabichromene (CBC) are lipophilic compounds with limited water solubility, resulting in challenges related to their bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy upon oral administration. To overcome these limitations, we developed co-dispersion cannabinoid delivery systems with the biopolymer polyvinyl caprolactam-polyvinyl acetate-polyethylene glycol (Soluplus) and magnesium aluminometasilicate (Neusilin US2) to improve solubility and permeability. Recognizing the potential therapeutic benefits arising from the entourage effect, we decided to work with an extract instead of isolated cannabinoids. Cannabis sativa inflorescences (Henola variety) with a confirming neuroprotective activity were subjected to dynamic supercritical CO2 (scCO2) extraction and next they were combined with carriers (1:1 mass ratio) to prepare the co-dispersion cannabinoid delivery systems (HiE). In vitro dissolution studies were conducted to evaluate the solubility of CBD, CBDA, and CBC in various media (pH 1.2, 6.8, fasted, and fed state simulated intestinal fluid). The HiE-Soluplus delivery systems consistently demonstrated the highest dissolution rate of cannabinoids. Additionally, HiE-Soluplus exhibited the highest permeability coefficients for cannabinoids in gastrointestinal tract conditions than it was during the permeability studies using model PAMPA GIT. All three cannabinoids exhibited promising blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability (Papp higher than 4.0 × 10-6 cm/s), suggesting their potential to effectively cross into the central nervous system. The improved solubility and permeability of cannabinoids from the HiE-Soluplus delivery system hold promise for enhancement in their bioavailability.

Determining Antioxidant Activity of Cannabis Leaves Extracts from Different Varieties-Unveiling Nature's Treasure Trove

Cannabis leaves contain a diverse range of antioxidants, including cannabinoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, which offer significant health benefits. Utilising cannabis leaves as a source of antioxidants presents a cost-effective approach because they are typically discarded during the cultivation of cannabis plants for their seeds or fibres. Therefore, this presented study aimed to assess the antioxidant activity of the leaves of selected hemp cultivars, such as Białobrzeska, Tygra, and Henola, based on the results obtained with the 2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, ferric reducing antioxidant power, cupric reducing antioxidant capacity, and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assays. The cannabinoid profile was analysed for the antioxidant activity to the contents of cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC), and cannabichromene (CBC), determined based on chromatographic assays. The following variables were tested: the impact of various extractants (methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol), and their mixtures (50:50, v/v, as well as extraction methods (maceration and ultra-sound-assisted extraction) significant in obtaining hemp extracts characterised by different cannabinoid profiles. The results revealed that the selection of extractant and extraction conditions significantly influenced the active compounds' extraction efficiency and antioxidant activity. Among the tested conditions, ultrasound-assisted extraction using methanol yielded the highest cannabinoid profile: CBD = 184.51 ± 5.61; CBG = 6.10 ± 0.21; Δ9-THC = 0.51 ± 0.01; and CBC = 0.71 ± 0.01 μg/g antioxidant potential in Białobrzeska leaf extracts.

Multidirectional Effects of Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) in Support of Menopause Therapy

Red clover is a raw material of interest primarily due to its isoflavone content. However, other groups of compounds may affect the pleiotropic biological effects of this raw material. It is used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, but the fact that there are many varieties of this plant that can be grown makes it necessary to compare the biological activity and phytochemical composition of this plant. Also of interest are the differences between the leaves and flowers of the plant. The aim of this study was to evaluate the properties of the leaves and flowers of six clover varieties-'Tenia', 'Atlantis', 'Milena', 'Magellan', 'Lemmon' and 'Lucrum'-with respect to their ability to inhibit α-glucosidase, lipase, collagenase and antioxidant activity. Therefore, the contents of polyphenols and the four main isoflavones-genistein, daidzein, biochanin and formononetin-were assessed. The study was complemented by testing for permeability through a model membrane system (PAMPA). Principal component analysis (PCA) identified a relationship between activity and the content of active compounds. It was concluded that antioxidant activity, inhibition of glucosidase, collagenase and lipase are not correlated with isoflavone content. A higher content of total polyphenols (TPC) was determined in the flowers of red clover while a higher content of isoflavones was determined in the leaves of almost every variety. The exception is the 'Lemmon' variety, characterized by high isoflavone content and high activity in the tests conducted.

Identification of Novel QTLs Associated with Frost Tolerance in Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Low temperature (cold) and freezing stress is a major problem during winter wheat growth. Low temperature tolerance (LT) is an important agronomic trait in winter wheat and determines the plants' ability to cope with below-freezing temperatures; thus, the development of cold-tolerant cultivars has become a major goal of breeding in various regions of the world. In this study, we sought to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) using molecular markers related to freezing tolerance in winter. Thirty-four polymorphic markers among 425 SSR markers were obtained for the population, including 180 inbred lines of F₁₂ generation wheat, derived from crosses (Norstar × Zagros) after testing with parents. LT₅₀ is used as an effective selection criterion for identifying frost-tolerance genotypes. The progeny of individual F₁₂ plants were used to evaluate LT50. Several QTLs related to wheat yield, including heading time period, 1000-seed weight, and number of surviving plants after overwintering, were identified. Single-marker analysis illustrated that four SSR markers with a total of 25% phenotypic variance determination were linked to LT50. Related QTLs were located on chromosomes 4A, 2B, and 3B. Common QTLs identified in two cropping seasons based on agronomical traits were two QTLs for heading time period, one QTL for 1000-seed weight, and six QTLs for number of surviving plants after overwintering. The four markers identified linked to LT₅₀ significantly affected both LT₅₀ and yield-related traits simultaneously. This is the first report to identify a major-effect QTL related to frost tolerance on chromosome 4A by the marker XGWM160. It is possible that some QTLs are closely related to pleiotropic effects that control two or more traits simultaneously, and this feature can be used as a factor to select frost-resistant lines in plant breeding programs.

Impact of Multifunctional Adjuvants on Efficacy of Sulfonylurea Herbicide Applied in Maize (Zea mays L.)

To reduce the cost of intensive herbicide application and environment pollution and enhance biological effectiveness, effective multifunction adjuvants should be used. A field study was conducted in 2017-2019 in midwestern Poland in order to assess the effects of new adjuvant formulations on the activity of herbicides. Treatments included the herbicide nicosulfuron at recommended (40 g ha^-1) and reduced rates (28 g ha^-1) alone and with the addition of tested MSO 1, MSO 2, and MSO 3 (differing in the type and amount of surfactants), as well as standard (MSO 4 and NIS) adjuvants. Nicosulfuron was applied once during the 3-5 leaf stage of maize. Results indicate that nicosulfuron with the tested adjuvants provided satisfactory weed control equivalent to that provided by standard MSO 4 and better than that provided by NIS. Nicosulfuron applied with the tested adjuvants led to a similar grain yield of maize as that achieved with standard adjuvant treatments and much higher than that measured in untreated crops.

Response of Maize Varieties (Zea mays L.) to the Application of Classic and Stabilized Nitrogen Fertilizers-Nitrogen as a Predictor of Generative Yield

The study presents the results of a 3-year field trial aimed at assessing the yield and efficiency indicators of nitrogen application in the cultivation of three maize cultivars differing in agronomic and genetic profile. The advantages of the UltraGrain stabilo formulation (NBPT and NPPT) over ammonium nitrate and urea are apparent if a maize cultivar capable of efficient nutrient uptake in the pre-flowering period and effective utilization during the grain filling stage is selected. Therefore, the rational fertilization of maize with urea-based nitrogen fertilizer with a urease inhibitor requires the simultaneous selection of cultivars that are physiologically profiled for efficient nitrogen utilization from this form of fertilizer ("stay-green" cultivar). The interaction of a selective cultivar with a high genetically targeted potential for nitrogen uptake from soil, combined with a targeted selection of nitrogen fertilizer, is important not only in terms of production, but also environmental and economic purposes.

Update of the fracture risk prediction tool FRAX: a systematic review of potential cohorts and analysis plan

We describe the collection of cohorts together with the analysis plan for an update of the fracture risk prediction tool FRAX with respect to current and novel risk factors. The resource comprises 2,138,428 participants with a follow-up of approximately 20 million person-years and 116,117 documented incident major osteoporotic fractures.

INTRODUCTION

The availability of the fracture risk assessment tool FRAX® has substantially enhanced the targeting of treatment to those at high risk of fracture with FRAX now incorporated into more than 100 clinical osteoporosis guidelines worldwide. The aim of this study is to determine whether the current algorithms can be further optimised with respect to current and novel risk factors.

METHODS

A computerised literature search was performed in PubMed from inception until May 17, 2019, to identify eligible cohorts for updating the FRAX coefficients. Additionally, we searched the abstracts of conference proceedings of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research, European Calcified Tissue Society and World Congress of Osteoporosis. Prospective cohort studies with data on baseline clinical risk factors and incident fractures were eligible.

RESULTS

Of the 836 records retrieved, 53 were selected for full-text assessment after screening on title and abstract. Twelve cohorts were deemed eligible and of these, 4 novel cohorts were identified. These cohorts, together with 60 previously identified cohorts, will provide the resource for constructing an updated version of FRAX comprising 2,138,428 participants with a follow-up of approximately 20 million person-years and 116,117 documented incident major osteoporotic fractures. For each known and candidate risk factor, multivariate hazard functions for hip fracture, major osteoporotic fracture and death will be tested using extended Poisson regression. Sex- and/or ethnicity-specific differences in the weights of the risk factors will be investigated. After meta-analyses of the cohort-specific beta coefficients for each risk factor, models comprising 10-year probability of hip and major osteoporotic fracture, with or without femoral neck bone mineral density, will be computed.

CONCLUSIONS

These assembled cohorts and described models will provide the framework for an updated FRAX tool enabling enhanced assessment of fracture risk (PROSPERO (CRD42021227266)).

Klinefelter Bone Microarchitecture Evolution with Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) patients, defined by a 47 XXY karyotype, have increased risk of fragility fractures. We have assessed bone microarchitecture by high resolution peripheral quantitative CT (HR-pQCT) at the radius and tibia in young KS patients, naïve from testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). Areal bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition were assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Total testosterone (tT) was measured at baseline. Bone measurements have been repeated after 30 months of TRT. We enrolled 24 KS patients and 72 age-matched controls. KS patients were (mean ± SD) 23.7 ± 7.8 year-old. KS patients had significantly lower relative appendicular lean mass index (RALM) and lower aBMD at spine and hip than controls. Ten patients (42%) had low tT level (≤ 10.4 nmol/L). At baseline, we observed at radius a marked cortical (Ct) impairment reflected by lower Ct.area, Ct.perimeter, and Ct.vBMD than controls. At tibia, in addition to cortical fragility, we also found significant alterations of trabecular (Tb) compartment with lower trabecular bone volume (BV/TV) and Tb.vBMD as compared to controls. After 30 months of TRT, 18 (75%) KS patients were reassessed. Spine aBMD and RALM significantly increased. At radius, both cortical (Ct.Pm, Ct.Ar, Ct.vBMD, Ct.Th) and trabecular (Tb.vBMD) parameters significantly improved. At tibia, the improvement was found only in the cortical compartment. Young TRT naïve KS patients have inadequate bone microarchitecture at both the radius and tibia, which can improve on TRT.

Is it time to consider population screening for fracture risk in postmenopausal women? A position paper from the International Osteoporosis Foundation Epidemiology/Quality of Life Working Group

The IOF Epidemiology and Quality of Life Working Group has reviewed the potential role of population screening for high hip fracture risk against well-established criteria. The report concludes that such an approach should strongly be considered in many health care systems to reduce the burden of hip fractures.

INTRODUCTION

The burden of long-term osteoporosis management falls on primary care in most healthcare systems. However, a wide and stable treatment gap exists in many such settings; most of which appears to be secondary to a lack of awareness of fracture risk. Screening is a public health measure for the purpose of identifying individuals who are likely to benefit from further investigations and/or treatment to reduce the risk of a disease or its complications. The purpose of this report was to review the evidence for a potential screening programme to identify postmenopausal women at increased risk of hip fracture.

METHODS

The approach took well-established criteria for the development of a screening program, adapted by the UK National Screening Committee, and sought the opinion of 20 members of the International Osteoporosis Foundation's Working Group on Epidemiology and Quality of Life as to whether each criterion was met (yes, partial or no). For each criterion, the evidence base was then reviewed and summarized.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The report concludes that evidence supports the proposal that screening for high fracture risk in primary care should strongly be considered for incorporation into many health care systems to reduce the burden of fractures, particularly hip fractures. The key remaining hurdles to overcome are engagement with primary care healthcare professionals, and the implementation of systems that facilitate and maintain the screening program.

Selecting predictive biomarkers from genomic data

Recently there have been tremendous efforts to develop statistical procedures which allow to determine subgroups of patients for which certain treatments are effective. This article focuses on the selection of prognostic and predictive genetic biomarkers based on a relatively large number of candidate Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). We consider models which include prognostic markers as main effects and predictive markers as interaction effects with treatment. We compare different high-dimensional selection approaches including adaptive lasso, a Bayesian adaptive version of the Sorted L-One Penalized Estimator (SLOBE) and a modified version of the Bayesian Information Criterion (mBIC2). These are compared with classical multiple testing procedures for individual markers. Having identified predictive markers we consider several different approaches how to specify subgroups susceptible to treatment. Our main conclusion is that selection based on mBIC2 and SLOBE has similar predictive performance as the adaptive lasso while including substantially fewer biomarkers.

Maize productivity and soil nutrients variations by the application of vermicompost and biochar

Poor soil organic matter is one of the major causes of the deterioration of soil health. Most soils fertility is also decreased when enough organic carbon is not present in the soil. Maize is most susceptible to this poor soil fertility status. A significant amount of maize growth and yield is lost when it is cultivated in low organic matter and poor fertility soil. To overcome this issue organic amendments can play an imperative role. Biochar and vermicompost are organic amendments that can not only improve organic residues but also increase soil nutrient concentration. The current experiment was conducted to explore the sole and combined application of both organic amendments with recommended NPK fertilizer. Four treatments were tested i.e., control, biochar (BC1), vermicompost (VC1) and VC1+BC1 with and without nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in the experiment. Results showed that VC1+BC1+NPK performed significantly best for improvement in maize plant height (6.25 and 3.00%), 1000 grains weight (30.48 and 29.40%), biological yield (18.86 and 43.12%) and grains yield (30.58 and 39.59%) compared to BC0+VC0+NPK and control respectively. A significant improvement in soil N, P and K also validated the efficacious role of VC1+BC1+NPK over BC0+VC0+NPK and control. Treatment VC1+BC1+NPK is recommended for the achievement of better maize growth and yield in poor organic matter soils. More investigations are suggested in variable climatic conditions to declare VC1+BC1+NPK as the best amendment compared to control for enhancing soil N, P and K status as well as maize productivity.

Prunus padus L. bark as a functional promoting component in functional herbal infusions – cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects

The study assessed the health-promoting properties and the content of minerals in the bark of bird cherry (Prunus padus L.), which was then used as an ingredient in functional teas. The infusions were made with the use of Matricaria chamomilla L., Tilia cordata Mill., and Calendula officinalis L., and then combined with the bark in various proportions. The prepared infusions were tested for antioxidant activity, ability to reduce copper ions and iron ions, as well as the ability to scavenge hydroxyl radicals. In the next stage, the antimicrobial activity and the ability to inhibit the enzyme cycloxygenase-2 were assessed. Bird cherry bark contains a high potassium content of 19.457 ± 762 mg/kg d.m. In all the tests evaluating the antioxidant activity, infusions from the bark of bird cherry alone and with its 30% addition had the strongest properties. The analyzed infusions also have the ability to reduce Cu(ii) ions; they are active to reduce Fe(iii) ions and scavenge hydroxyl radical. The highest antimicrobial activity was found for teas with 20 and 30% bark, especially against Listeria monocytogenes (25.0–27.0 mm) (±3.0). The bark infusion was also found to have the highest inhibitory activity against cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) – 77.0%.

Expansion of a SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant with an 872 nt deletion encompassing ORF7a, ORF7b and ORF8, Poland, July to August 2021

Routine genomic surveillance on samples from COVID-19 patients collected in Poland during summer 2021 revealed the emergence of a SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant with a large 872 nt deletion. This change, confirmed by Sanger and deep sequencing, causes complete loss of ORF7a, ORF7b, and ORF8 genes. The index case carrying the deletion is unknown. The standard pipeline for sequencing may mask this deletion with a long stretch of N’s. Effects of this deletion on phenotype or immune evasion needs further study.

The clinical application of high-resolution peripheral computed tomography (HR-pQCT) in adults: state of the art and future directions

High-resolution peripheral computed tomography (HR-pQCT) was developed to image bone microarchitecture in vivo at peripheral skeletal sites. Since the introduction of HR-pQCT in 2005, clinical research to gain insight into pathophysiology of skeletal fragility and to improve prediction of fractures has grown. Meanwhile, the second-generation HR-pQCT device has been introduced, allowing novel applications such as hand joint imaging, assessment of subchondral bone and cartilage thickness in the knee, and distal radius fracture healing. This article provides an overview of the current clinical applications and guidance on interpretation of results, as well as future directions. Specifically, we provide an overview of (1) the differences and reference data for HR-pQCT variables by age, sex, and race/ethnicity; (2) fracture risk prediction using HR-pQCT; (3) the ability to monitor response of anti-osteoporosis therapy with HR-pQCT; (4) the use of HR-pQCT in patients with metabolic bone disorders and diseases leading to secondary osteoporosis; and (5) novel applications of HR-pQCT imaging. Finally, we summarize the status of the application of HR-pQCT in clinical practice and discuss future directions. From the clinical perspective, there are both challenges and opportunities for more widespread use of HR-pQCT. Assessment of bone microarchitecture by HR-pQCT improves fracture prediction in mostly normal or osteopenic elderly subjects beyond DXA of the hip, but the added value is marginal. The prospects of HR-pQCT in clinical practice need further study with respect to medication effects, metabolic bone disorders, rare bone diseases, and other applications such as hand joint imaging and fracture healing. The mostly unexplored potential may be the differentiation of patients with only moderately low BMD but severe microstructural deterioration, which would have important implications for the decision on therapeutical interventions.

Combinations of Piperine with Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin as a Multifunctional System

Piperine is an alkaloid that has extensive pharmacological activity and impacts other active substances bioavailability due to inhibition of CYP450 enzymes, stimulation of amino acid transporters and P-glycoprotein inhibition. Low solubility and the associated low bioavailability of piperine limit its potential. The combination of piperine with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) causes a significant increase in its solubility and, consequently, an increase in permeability through gastrointestinal tract membranes and the blood-brain barrier. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were used to characterize interactions between piperine and HP-β-CD. The observed physicochemical changes should be combined with the process of piperine and CD system formation. Importantly, with an increase in solubility and permeability of piperine as a result of interaction with CD, it was proven to maintain its biological activity concerning the antioxidant potential (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate assay), inhibition of enzymes essential for the inflammatory process and for neurodegenerative changes (hyaluronidase, acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase).

Dry Matter Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) as an Indicator of Mineral Fertilizer Efficiency

This study presents the results of 3-year field trials, whose purpose was to assess the dynamics of dry matter accumulation by maize depending on the placement depth of a two-component (NP) mineral fertilizer in the soil layer, type of nitrogen fertilizer and date of its application. Weather conditions, mainly thermal in the early growing season, had a significant effect on maize responses to placement depth of phosphorus starting dose in the soil profile. In the initial stage of maize development, the temperature determined plant growth to a significantly higher extent than the sum of rainfall. The dry matter yield of ears and whole plants showed a clear reaction to starter phosphorus fertilization, but the effect of the depth of fertilizer placement varied over the years, indicating a depth of 5 cm and 10 cm as advisable and recommended for agricultural practice. The PFPF_N (partial factor productivity of fertilizer nitrogen) and PFPF_P (partial factor productivity of fertilizer phosphorus) indices confirmed the significant effect of fertilizer (NP) placement in the soil profile, indicating row fertilizer application (regardless of the depth) as recommended to improve the efficiency of maize fertilization. The SPAD (soil plant analysis development) leaf greenness index turned out to be a sensitive indicator of maize response to fertilizer (NP) placement depth in the soil profile.

Electrochemical screening of genoprotective and antioxidative effectiveness of Origanum vulgare L. and its functionality in the prevention of neurodegenerative disorders

A new way of electrochemical DNA sensor using as a screening tool for the determination of phytochemicals with high genoprotective functionality is proposed. The biosensor's detection layer was prepared with double stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (ds DNA) that were subjected to oxidative stress induced by ^•OH radicals generated by Fenton reaction. The oxidized guanine derivative, 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine, was treated as an indicator of DNA oxidative damage. This derivative may cause mutation through its ability to pair with adenine. The abnormalities of DNA structure and DNA repair system are known to be directly related to progressive neurodegeneration. The present study showed that during oxidative stress, the 2.5% oregano extract protected guanine from undergoing oxidation to 8-oxoguanine. The results revealed that this genoprotective effectiveness can make oregano a very efficient protective barrier against oxidative stress. Due to these unique properties of oregano we propose the recipe of a functional bread with its addition. It was found that the functionality of the prepared bread was not limited to antioxidative activity but also is expressed in the inhibition of cholinesterases. These findings indicate that oregano can act as an important component in the therapeutic diet recommended in neurodegenerative disorders.

Rapid Progression of Aortic Calcification in Older Men with Low Appendicular Lean Mass and Poor Physical Function

OBJECTIVES

Assessment of the progression of abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) may be a surrogate marker of the impact of physical function on cardiovascular risk. Our aim was to assess the risk of rapid AAC progression in older men with low relative appendicular lean mass (RALM) and poor physical function.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Community-dwelling older men.

PARTICIPANTS

621 men aged 50-85 followed prospectively (baseline, 3 and 7.5 years).

MEASUREMENTS

Body composition was assessed by DXA. Poor physical function was defined as incapacity to perform ≥1 of 5 clinical tests (balance, muscle strength). AAC was assessed using Kauppila's semiquantitative score. Reclassification improvement was assessed by comparing the areas under the curve (AUC) using DeLong's method.

RESULTS

Rapid AAC progression (>0.6 point/year) was found in 168 men (27.1%). After adjustment for confounders including baseline AAC, the risk of rapid AAC progression increased with lower RALM (OR=1.42/SD, 95%CI: 1.09-1.86, p<0.01) and was higher in the lowest (<7.5kg/m2) vs. highest (>8.6kg/m2) quartile (OR=2.15, 95%CI: 1.17-3.95, p<0.01). Poor physical performance was associated with rapid AAC progression (OR=2.76, 95%CI: 1.48-5.91, p<0.005). Low RALM (<7.84kg/m2 defined using Youden's index) and poor physical function contributed to the risk of rapid AAC progression jointly. Men who had low RALM and poor physical function had higher risk of rapid AAC progression vs. men without these traits (OR=4.66, 95%CI: 1.72-12.62, p<0.05). RALM and physical function improved the identification of men with rapid AAC progression (DAUC=0.026, 95%CI: 0.005-0.046, p<0.05) after adjustment for confounders including baseline AAC score.

CONCLUSIONS

Low RALM and poor physical function are associated with higher risk of rapid AAC progression and possibly represent another measure of cardiovascular risk.

Biochemical bone turnover markers in hormonal disorders in adults: a narrative review

BACKGROUND

Hormonal disorders are often associated with abnormal levels of bone turnover markers (BTMs). N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP) and serum C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) are the reference markers of bone formation and bone resorption, respectively.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search within the MEDLINE and Web of Science databases was performed.

RESULTS

Acromegaly is associated with higher BTM levels, which decrease during the remission after treatment. Adult-onset growth hormone deficiency is often associated with decreased BTM levels. Growth hormone replacement therapy stimulates bone turnover and increases BTM levels. Hypothyroidism is characterized by general slowing of bone metabolism which is reflected by lower BTM levels. The replacement thyroid hormone therapy increases the bone turnover rate and BTM levels increase. Patients with thyroid cancer receive a suppressive dose of thyroid hormones and may have slightly elevated BTM levels. Patients with overt hyperthyroidism had higher BTM levels and anti-thyroid therapy induces a rapid decrease in the BTM levels. Patients with overt primary hyperparathyroidism have higher BTM levels, whereas those with asymptomatic and normocalcemic hyperparathyroidism usually have normal BTM levels. Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by slightly decreased BTM levels. Cushing's syndrome is characterized consistently by markedly decreased osteocalcin concentration, whereas data on other BTMs are discordant.

CONCLUSIONS

BTMs help us to better understand mechanisms of the impact of hormonal disorders and their treatment on bone metabolism. However, it is unknown whether BTMs may be used to monitor the effect of their treatments on bone in the clinical practice.

Polyphenol content and antioxidant activities of Prunus padus L. and Prunus serotina L. leaves: Electrochemical and spectrophotometric approach and their antimicrobial properties

The aim of the study was to compare the content of selected phytochemicals as well as the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential of the leaves of Prunus padus L. and Prunus serotina L., as there is very little research on this subject in the literature. Therefore, it is used to deepen knowledge on this subject. In addition, an electrochemical test was also carried out, which was not yet available for the above plants. Antibacterial studies have also been deepened to include the analysis of new strains of bacteria and fungi, which has not been studied earlier. The water extracts of P. padus using the utra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) system showed a higher content of both phenolic acids and flavonols (651.77b ± 18.12 mg/100 g dw for acids and 3.85b ± 0.08 mg/100 g dw for flavonols, respectively). Ferulic and p-coumaric acids were the dominant polyphenols in leaves. Extracts from P. padus showed higher activity against DPPH radical, which was 6.62b ± 0.06 mg TE/1 g dw, as well as higher antioxidant capacity, measured using 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) cation radical (37.39b ± 3.81 mg TE/g dw). The higher antioxidant potential of P. padus was confirmed based on the oxidizing potentials of electroactive compounds present in them. Stronger inhibition against Enterococcus faecium and Klebsiella pneumoniae was found for P. padus, whereas P. serotina extract was more potent against Enterococcus faecium bacterium. It has been shown that P. padus can be an attractive raw material with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that can be used on a much wider scale in food technology than its current application.

AB0815 CHANGES IN BODY COMPOSITION, BONE MINERAL DENSITY AND BONE REMODELING MARKERS DURING INTERLEUKIN 12/23 INHIBITION IN PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS

Background:

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by multiple comorbid conditions including cardiovascular comorbidities, diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis. Little is known about body composition in patients with PsA and no data are available regarding body composition changes under DMARDs.

Objectives:

We investigated the effects of ustekinumab (UST), a humanized anti-interleukin 12/23 antibody, on body composition, bone mineral density (BMD) and bone remodeling markers in patients treated for PsA.

Methods:

Thirty patients with active PsA treated with UST were included in a 6 months open follow-up study. Body mass index, DAS28-CRP, bone remodeling markers, serum levels of leptin, BMD and body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were measured at baseline and 6 months of treatment. At baseline, PsA patients were compared with 60 non-PsA controls matched for age, sex and body mass index.

Results:

Compared with controls, we observed lower total and appendicular lean mass (53.1 ±13.1 vs. 56.7 ±11.9 kg, p=0.013 and 21.6 ±6.3 vs. 23.4 ±5.0 kg, p=0.010 respectively) and greater fat mass in PsA (32.5 ±10.8 vs. 25.2 ±8.9 kg, p<0.001). Among PsA patients, 30% had a skeletal muscle mass index below the cut-off point for sarcopenia (Baumgartner’s criteria: men 7.26 kg/m2, women 5.5 kg/m2) whereas no case was observed in the control group. After 6 months of treatment with UST, there was not a significant change of BMI, while there was a tendency for reaching the significant level for fat mass (+1.75 ±3.60 kg, p=0.054), and fat mass index (+0.59 ±1.25 kg/m2, p=0.061). In contrast, a decrease in total lean mass was observed (-1.57 ±3.10 kg, p=0.046) without a significant change in appendicular lean mass and skeletal muscle mass index. No changes for bone remodeling markers, leptin and BMD were observed at 6 months.

Conclusion:

Patients with active PsA required biologic therapy had increased fat mass and decreased lean mass. Moreover, ustekinumab might worsen the decrease in lean mass with no significant change in fat mass.

Disclosure of Interests:

Julien Paccou Grant/research support from: Janssen, Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Amgen, Janssen, Lilly, MSD, Novartis, Pfizer, Sandoz, Sanofi, UCB, Wallis Bavière: None declared, Roland Chapurlat: None declared, Elisabeth Sornay-Rendu: None declared, Pawel Szulc: None declared, Bernard Cortet Consultant of: Aptissen, René-Marc Flipo Consultant of: Johnson and Johnson, MSD France, Novartis, Sanofi, Speakers bureau: Johnson and Johnson, MSD France, Novartis, Sanofi

The Genoprotective Role of Naringin

Since ancient times, fruits and edible plants have played a special role in the human diet for enhancing health and maintaining youthfulness. The aim of our work was to determine the interactions between naringin, a natural ingredient of grapefruits, and DNA using an electrochemical biosensor. Electrochemical methods allow analyzing the damages occurring in the structure of nucleic acids and their interactions with xenobiotics. Our study showed that the changes in the location of electrochemical signals and their intensity resulted from the structural alterations in DNA. The signal of adenine was affected at lower concentrations of naringin, but the signal of guanine was unaffected in the same condition. The dynamics of changes occurring in the peak height and surface of adenine related to naringin concentration was also significantly lower. The complete binding of all adenine bases present in the tested double-stranded DNA solution was observed at naringin concentrations ranging from 8.5 to 10.0 µM. At larger concentrations, this active compound exerted an oxidizing effect on DNA. However, the critical concentrations of naringin were found to be more than twice as high as the dose absorbable in an average human (4 µM). The results of our work might be helpful in the construction of electrochemical sensors for testing the content of polyphenols and would allow determining their genoprotective functionality.

Composition and In Vitro Effects of Cultivars of Humulus lupulus L. Hops on Cholinesterase Activity and Microbial Growth

Common hop (Humulus lupulus L.) has significant health-promoting properties. Hop cones contain resins, essential oils, proteins, polyphenols, lipids, waxes, and cellulose. Hop extracts include bioactive compounds such as polyphenolic compounds (phenolic acids, and flavonols), and chlorophylls. The aim of this study was to compare the pro-health potential of hop cone extracts obtained from three cultivars (Magnum, Lubelski, and Marynka). The results showed that the cones of Magnum cultivar demonstrated the highest biological activity. The sum of phenolic acids and flavonols in ethanol extract was the highest for this variety and was equal 4903.5 µg/g dw. Ethanol extracts of Magnum cultivars showed the highest degree of iron ion chelation (55.43-88.76%) as well as the activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (4.75 mmol Tx/g dw). Hop cone extracts as cholinesterase inhibitors showed high potential for aqueous variants. In terms of antimicrobial activity, all investigated extracts demonstrated strong inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, with the Magnum cultivar showing the strongest inhibition. Owing to the biofunctional features of hop cone, it can be concluded that it is an attractive raw material with pro-health potential that can be used much more widely in food technology. However, it should be noted that toxicological tests and in vitro tests must be carried out before the raw material is used in food production.

Plant growth promoting N-alkyltropinium bromides enhance seed germination, biomass accumulation and photosynthesis parameters of maize (Zea mays)

N-Alkyltropinium bromides were synthesized and characterized as novel plant-growth promoting agents.

Use of CTX-I and PINP as bone turnover markers: National Bone Health Alliance recommendations to standardize sample handling and patient preparation to reduce pre-analytical variability

The National Bone Health Alliance (NBHA) recommends standardized sample handling and patient preparation for C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) and N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP) measurements to reduce pre-analytical variability. Controllable and uncontrollable patient-related factors are reviewed to facilitate interpretation and minimize pre-analytical variability.

INTRODUCTION

The IOF and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) Bone Marker Standards Working Group have identified PINP and CTX-I in blood to be the reference markers of bone turnover for the fracture risk prediction and monitoring of osteoporosis treatment. Although used in clinical research for many years, bone turnover markers (BTM) have not been widely adopted in clinical practice primarily due to their poor within-subject and between-lab reproducibility. The NBHA Bone Turnover Marker Project team aim to reduce pre-analytical variability of CTX-I and PINP measurements through standardized sample handling and patient preparation.

METHODS

Recommendations for sample handling and patient preparations were made based on review of available publications and pragmatic considerations to reduce pre-analytical variability. Controllable and un-controllable patient-related factors were reviewed to facilitate interpretation and sample collection.

RESULTS

Samples for CTX-I must be collected consistently in the morning hours in the fasted state. EDTA plasma is preferred for CTX-I for its greater sample stability. Sample collection conditions for PINP are less critical as PINP has minimal circadian variability and is not affected by food intake. Sample stability limits should be observed. The uncontrollable aspects (age, sex, pregnancy, immobility, recent fracture, co-morbidities, anti-osteoporotic drugs, other medications) should be considered in BTM interpretation.

CONCLUSION

Adopting standardized sample handling and patient preparation procedures will significantly reduce controllable pre-analytical variability. The successful adoption of such recommendations necessitates the close collaboration of various stakeholders at the global stage, including the laboratories, the medical community, the reagent manufacturers and the regulatory agencies.

Joint genotype- and ancestry-based genome-wide association studies in admixed populations

In genome-wide association studies (GWAS) genetic loci that influence complex traits are localized by inspecting associations between genotypes of genetic markers and the values of the trait of interest. On the other hand, admixture mapping, which is performed in case of populations consisting of a recent mix of two ancestral groups, relies on the ancestry information at each locus (locus-specific ancestry). Recently it has been proposed to jointly model genotype and locus-specific ancestry within the framework of single marker tests. Here, we extend this approach for population-based GWAS in the direction of multimarker models. A modified version of the Bayesian information criterion is developed for building a multilocus model that accounts for the differential correlation structure due to linkage disequilibrium (LD) and admixture LD. Simulation studies and a real data example illustrate the advantages of this new approach compared to single-marker analysis or modern model selection strategies based on separately analyzing genotype and ancestry data, as well as to single-marker analysis combining genotypic and ancestry information. Depending on the signal strength, our procedure automatically chooses whether genotypic or locus-specific ancestry markers are added to the model. This results in a good compromise between the power to detect causal mutations and the precision of their localization. The proposed method has been implemented in R and is available at http://www.math.uni.wroc.pl/~mbogdan/admixtures/.

Studies on the process of recovering low-temperature waste heat from a flue gas in a pilot-scale plant

This paper presents studies carried out in a pilot-scale plant for recovery of waste heat from a flue gas which has been built in a lignite-fired power plant. The purpose of the studies was to check the operation of the heat recovery system in a pilot scale, while the purpose of the plant was recovery of waste heat from the flue gas in the form of hot water with a temperature of approx. 90 °C. The main part of the test rig was a condensing heat exchanger designed and built on the basis of laboratory tests conducted by the authors of this paper. Tests conducted on the pilot-scale plant concerned the thermal and flow parameters of the condensing heat exchanger as well as the impact of the volumetric flow rate of the flue gas and the cooling water on the heat flux recovered. Results show that the system with a condensing heat exchanger for recovery of low-temperature waste heat from the flue gas enables the recovery of much higher heat flux as compared with conventional systems without a condensing heat exchanger.

Has sclerostin a true endocrine metabolic action complementary to osteocalcin in older men?

The reported association between sclerostin and diabetes mellitus or abdominal fat may be biased by body size and bone mass. In older men, the association between serum sclerostin levels and metabolic syndrome lost significance after adjustment for bone mass. The association between sclerostin and energy metabolism needs further clarification.

INTRODUCTION

Sclerostin is associated with abdominal fat, but this relationship may be biased since both are associated with body size and bone mass. Osteocalcin is a bone-derived hormone regulating energy metabolism. We assessed the association between serum sclerostin and metabolic syndrome (MetS) accounting for whole body mineral content (BMC) and osteocalcin.

METHODS

We studied 694 men aged 51-85 who had serum osteocalcin and sclerostin measurements.

RESULTS

Sclerostin was higher in 216 men with MetS compared with those without MetS (p < 0.005). Average sclerostin level increased significantly across the increasing number of MetS components. In multivariable models, higher sclerostin was associated with higher odds of MetS (odds ratio (OR) = 1.24/1 standard deviation (SD) increase [95 % confidence interval (95 % CI), 1.01-1.51]; p < 0.05). After further adjustment for BMC, the association of MetS with sclerostin lost significance, whereas that with osteocalcin remained significant. Men who were simultaneously in the highest sclerostin quartile and the lowest osteocalcin quartile had higher odds of MetS (OR = 2.14 [95 % CI, 1.15-4.18]; p < 0.05) vs. men being in the three lower sclerostin quartiles and three upper osteocalcin quartiles. After adjustment for whole body BMC, the association lost significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher sclerostin level is associated with MetS severity; however, this association may be related to higher whole body BMC. The adjustment for BMC had no impact on the association between MetS and osteocalcin. Clinical cross-sectional studies do not elucidate the potential role of sclerostin in the regulation of energy metabolism and direct experimental approach is necessary.

Oxytocin and bone status in men: analysis of the MINOS cohort

Oxytocin, a neurohypophysial hormone, regulates bone metabolism in animal studies and postmenopausal women. In men, oxytocin is not associated with bone mineral density, bone turnover markers, or prevalent fractures, but weakly negatively with incident fragility fracture requiring further studies.

INTRODUCTION

We previously showed that serum oxytocin (OT) level is associated with bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover rate in postmenopausal women. The aim of our study was to assess the relationship between circulating OT levels and bone status in men.

METHODS

In 552 men aged 50 and older from the MINOS cohort, we measured serum levels of OT. We assessed the association of serum OT levels with BMD (lumbar, femoral neck, total hip), bone turnover markers (BTM) (serum N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (bone ALP), and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I)) and fracture risk.

RESULTS

In the univariate analysis, serum OT level was not associated with BMD at any site, BTM levels, or with prevalent or incident fracture. OT was significantly correlated with body mass index (BMI) (r = 0.17, p < 0.001), total or bioavalaible 17β-estradiol (r = 0.09, p = 0.04 and r = 0.20, p < 0.001, respectively), free testosterone (r = 0.17, p < 0.001), and leptin (r = 0.16, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis did not show significant relationship between serum OT and BMD. After adjustment for age, BMI, interaction BMI/age, history of fall in the last year, and BMD, OT and prevalent fracture were not associated. By contrast, the same analysis with additional adjustment for prevalent fracture showed a weakly significant negative association between OT and incident fracture, e.g., after adjustment for femoral neck BMD, HR = 0.73, 95 %CI 0.55-0.99, p = 0.04.

CONCLUSION

In men, serum OT levels are not associated with BMD, bone turnover rate, or prevalent fractures. The weak negative relationship with fracture risk requires further studies.

Family resemblance of bone turnover rate in mothers and daughters--the MODAM study

We studied bone turnover markers (BTM) and bone microarchitecture (using high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT)) in 171 postmenopausal women and their 210 premenopausal daughters. BTM levels correlated positively between mothers and daughters. The mother-daughter pairs with high BTM levels had lower cortical density than those with low BTM levels.

INTRODUCTION

We assessed the correlation of serum bone turnover markers (BTM) between postmenopausal mothers and their premenopausal daughters as well as possible determinants of this association and its impact on resemblance of bone microarchitecture between mothers and their daughters.

METHODS

Cross-sectional analysis was performed in 171 untreated postmenopausal mothers (54 sustained fragility fractures) and their 210 premenopausal daughters. Intact N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP) and β-isomerized C-terminal crosslinking telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) were measured in the fasting status. Bone microarchitecture was assessed using HR-pQCT.

RESULTS

After adjustment for age, weight, lifestyle factors, hormones, and mother's fracture status, BTM levels correlated positively between mothers and daughters (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient = 0.22-0.27, p <0.005). Average BTM levels were ∼ 0.6 SD higher among daughters of mothers in the highest BTM quartile vs. the ones in the lowest BTM quartile. The variability of BTM levels explained ≤ 10 and ≤ 14% of variability of bone microarchitecture in the daughters and mothers, respectively. Cortical density was lower by 2.3-2.9% (0.6 SD, p <0.05 to <0.005) in the daughters from the mother-daughter pairs with high BTM levels (defined by generation-specific quartiles) than in the daughters from the pairs with low BTM levels. Corresponding differences for the mothers were 4.5-4.8% (0.5 SD, p <0.05 to <0.01).

CONCLUSION

BTM levels correlated between postmenopausal mothers and their premenopausal daughters after adjustment for age, weight, mother's fracture status, lifestyle, and hormonal factors. Family resemblance of BTM levels may contribute to family resemblance of some bone microarchitectural parameters, especially of cortical density.

Two-dimensional EPR imaging with the rapid scan and rotated magnetic field gradient

A new method for fast 2D Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Imaging (EPRI) is presented. To reduce the time of projections acquisition we propose to combine rapid scan of Zeeman magnetic field using high frequency sinusoidal modulation with simultaneously applied magnetic field gradient, whose orientation is changed at low frequency. The correctness of the method is confirmed by studies carried out on a phantom consisting of two LiPc samples. The images from the acquired data are reconstructed using iterative algorithms. The proposed method allows to reduce the image acquisition time up to 10 ms for 2D EPRI, and to detect the sinogram with infinitesimal angular step between projections.

Two-dimensional spectral-spatial EPR imaging with the rapid scan and modulated magnetic field gradient

A new method for fast spectral-spatial electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (EPRI) is presented. To reduce the time of projections acquisition we propose to combine rapid scan of Zeeman magnetic field using high frequency sinusoidal modulation with simultaneously applied magnetic field gradients, whose amplitude is modulated at low frequency. The correctness of the method is confirmed by studies carried out on a phantom consisting of two LiPc samples. The spectral-spatial images from the acquired data are reconstructed using iterative algorithms. The proposed method allows to acquire the spectral-spatial image with 800 projections at 200ms.

Severe abdominal aortic calcification in older men is negatively associated with DKK1 serum levels: the STRAMBO study

CONTEXT

Experimental data show that dickkopf-1 (DKK1) may be involved in the regulation of arterial calcification. However, clinical data on the association between serum DKK1 levels and severity of abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to determine the association between serum DKK1 concentration and AAC severity in men.

DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional analysis in the STRAMBO cohort.

SETTING

The cohort was recruited from the general population.

PARTICIPANTS

We examined 1139 male volunteers aged 20 to 87 years. No specific exclusion criteria were used.

INTERVENTIONS

We collected blood samples and assessed AAC severity on the lateral spine scans obtained by a Discovery A Hologic device using the semiquantitative Kauppila score.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We tested the hypothesis that low DKK1 levels are associated with AAC severity in men.

RESULTS

In men aged 20 to 60 years, serum DKK1 levels were not associated with other variables. In men aged 60 years and older, lower DKK1 levels were associated with higher odds of severe AAC (AAC score >5). After adjustment for confounders, odds of severe AAC increased with decreasing DKK1 levels (odds ratio = 1.42, 95% confidence interval = 1.13-1.79, P < .005) and was higher below vs above the median DKK1 level (odds ratio = 2.19, 95% confidence interval = 1.37-3.49, P < .005). Heavy smoking, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and elevated levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 were associated with severe AAC significantly, independently of DKK1 and additively with low DKK1 levels.

CONCLUSION

In older men, lower serum DKK1 levels are associated with severe AAC regardless of age and other potential confounders.

Standardising the descriptive epidemiology of osteoporosis: recommendations from the Epidemiology and Quality of Life Working Group of IOF

The Committee of Scientific Advisors of International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) recommends that papers describing the descriptive epidemiology of osteoporosis using bone mineral density (BMD) at the femoral neck include T-scores derived from an international reference standard.

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of osteoporosis as defined by the T-score is inconsistently reported in the literature which makes comparisons between studies problematic.

METHODS

The Epidemiology and Quality of Life Working Group of IOF convened to make its recommendations and endorsement sought thereafter from the Committee of Scientific Advisors of IOF.

RESULTS

The Committee of Scientific Advisors of IOF recommends that papers describing the descriptive epidemiology of osteoporosis using BMD at the femoral neck include T-scores derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III reference database for femoral neck measurements in Caucasian women aged 20-29 years.

CONCLUSIONS

It is expected that the use of the reference standard will help resolve difficulties in the comparison of results between studies and the comparative assessment of new technologies.