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Objectives: Limited studies are available testing through multiple regression models the association between the two main oral diseases: dental caries and periodontitis. The aim of this cross-sectional population-based study was to verify whether dental caries and periodontitis co-occur in a representative sample of the South Korea population. Materials and methods: A total of 23,405 subjects representative of 36.2 million of adults (KNHANES) were examined. Univariate and multiple regression analyses using 7 different models were applied, controlling for age, gender, smoking status, frequency of toothbrushing, use of interproximal toothbrushes and flossing, educational level, income, gum diseases treatment and tooth filling in the previous year, BMI, Vitamin D serum levels, alcoholism, diabetes status, stress and carbohydrates dietary intake. Results: In the fully adjusted model, participants with periodontitis had, respectively, a mean of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.41–1.23) and of 0.36 (95% CI: 0.22–0.50) more untreated decayed surfaces and teeth than participants without periodontitis, with an OR to have at least one untreated decayed surface of 1.96 (95% CI: 1.66–2.32). However, cumulative caries experience (DF scores) and periodontitis were not associated. Conclusions: In this large nationally representative population, periodontitis and untreated dental caries co-occur. However, when considering cumulative caries experience (DF scores), the two diseases do not appear related. Clinical relevance: In light of their possible co-occurrence, clinicians should implement integrative diagnostic, preventive and treatment strategies for both diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ultraviolet radiation induced EZH2 expression in human skin and human dermal fibroblasts. • EZH2 promoted MMP-1 expression but suppressed type I procollagen expression in human dermal fibroblasts. • EZH2 interacted with the NF-κB components p65 and p50 at the MMP-1 promoter to regulate MMP-1 transcriptional activation. • EZH2 interacted with DNMT1 and H3K27me3 at the COL1A2 promoter, leading to decreased COL1A2 transcription following UV irradiation. Abnormalities in the extracellular matrix (ECM) caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation are mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a histone methyltransferase that is implicated in inflammation, immune regulation, and senescence. However, its role in controlling UV-induced ECM alterations in the skin remains elusive. Here, we investigated the role of EZH2 in UV-induced expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and type I procollagen. We found that UV induced EZH2 expression in human skin in vivo and in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). EZH2 knockdown reduced the expression and promoter activity of MMP-1 and increased those of type I procollagen, whereas EZH2 overexpression had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, EZH2 increased NF-κB activity, and p65 and p50 expression and promoter activity. Intriguingly, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that the EZH2/p65/p50 complex was recruited and bound to the MMP-1 promoter after UV irradiation, independent of its histone methyltransferase activity. In contrast, EZH2-induced DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) formed a complex with EZH2 and enhanced the enrichment of H3K27me3 on the COL1A2 promoter following UV irradiation. These findings indicate that EZH2 plays a dual role in regulating MMP-1 and type I procollagen expression and improve our understanding of how this epigenetic mechanism contributes to UV-induced skin responses and photoaging. This study shows that inhibiting EZH2 is a potential anti-aging strategy for preventing UV-induced skin aging by reducing MMP-1 expression and inducing type I procollagen expression. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association of periodontal disease with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Materials and methods: A retrospective follow-up study using the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort was performed from 2002 to 2015 in the Korean population. A total of 165,032 subjects were followed up for incident NAFLD during 11 years. Periodontal disease and NAFLD were defined by a diagnosis using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision (ICD-10) codes. Periodontal status was used as the severity of periodontal status and the number of dental visit due to PD. Results: Periodontitis was associated with a 4% increase in risk for NAFLD after adjusting for socio-demographic factor, health behaviors, and systemic diseases (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.07). Between the number of dental visit due to PD and the risk for NAFLD was observed a dose–effect association (aHR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.99 to 1.05 for once; aHR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.06 to 1.15 for two times; aHR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.06 to 1.24 for three times). Conclusions: Our data confirmed that periodontitis showed an association with a higher incidence of NAFLD. Clinical relevance: Prevention and management of periodontal disease could be beneficial for reducing the risk of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: While the short‐term effects of hormonal events on gingival inflammation have been well described, long‐term effects on the periodontium have received less attention. The aim of this cross‐sectional population‐based study was to evaluate the association between hormone‐related events and periodontitis in a representative sample of the postmenopausal women of South Korea. Materials and Methods: A total of 10,273 postmenopausal women representative of 6.1 million of Koreans were examined. Periodontitis and severe periodontitis were defined according to the Community Periodontal Index (CPI ≧ 3 and CPI = 4, respectively). Univariate and multivariate regression analyses using 3 different models were applied controlling for age, smoking, marital status, educational level, income, BMI, hypertension, stress and frequency of toothbrushing. Results: Severe periodontitis was directly associated with a longer reproductive life (p‐trend =.027) and with a longer duration of breastfeeding (48–72 vs. 1–17 months: OR = 1.49; 95% CI: 1.01–2.21). Conversely, early menopausal age (<46 vs. 49–50 years: OR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.56–0.97), history of artificial menopause (OR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.53–0.97), having had more than 6 pregnancies (vs. 4: OR = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.55–0.97), having had more than three abortions (vs. 0: OR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.28–0.93) and having had the first birth age >26 years (vs. <21 years: OR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.52–0.97) were inversely associated with severe periodontitis. Conclusions: In this large nationally representative population, severe periodontitis was related to menopausal age, reproductive life length, number of pregnancies/abortions, first birth age and breastfeeding duration, while it was not to oral contraceptive and hormone replacement therapy usages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPU) derived from the copolymerization of cyclic-carbonated soybean oil (CSBO) and cyclic carbonate (CC)-terminated poly(ether carbonate) (RCC). Using a double-metal cyanide catalyst, poly(ether carbonate) polyol was first synthesized through the copolymerization of carbon dioxide and propylene oxide. The terminal hydroxyl group was then subjected to a substitution reaction with a five-membered CC group using glycerol-1,2-carbonate and oxalyl chloride, yielding RCC. Attempts to prepare NIPU solely using RCC and diamine were unsuccessful, possibly due to the low CC functionality and the aminolysis of RCC's linear carbonate repeating units. However, when combined with CSBO, solid NIPUs were successfully obtained, exhibiting good thermal stability along with enhanced mechanical properties compared to conventional CSBO-based NIPU formulations. Overall, this study underscores the potential of leveraging renewable resources and carbon capture technologies to develop sustainable NIPUs with tailored properties, thereby expanding their range of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Significant differences in oral health status were observed according to the socioeconomic status in Korean adults. • There are consistent and clear social gradients in the clinical and subjective indicators of oral health outcome. • Public health policies are needed to alleviate the steepness of the social gradient. Abstract Objectives The aim of the present study was to investigate whether clinical (severe tooth loss) and subjective (chewing difficulties) indicators of oral health outcomes are associated with socioeconomic position and to explore the age-sex differences in the magnitude of the social gradient in Korea using data from the representative national data. Methods Data were acquired from 10,939 men and women, ≥30 years of age who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys conducted from 2012 to 2014. Education and income were used as socioeconomic position. Self-rated chewing difficulties and severe tooth loss were assessed by dentists and trained interviewers. Confounding variables were demographic factors, general health behaviors, and systemic health status. Results Significant differences in oral health outcomes were observed according to the quartiles of income and education. In particular, the quartiles of education were significantly associated with oral health outcomes in the fully adjusted model with a dose-response trend. In participants aged 40–49 (OR = 2.30, 95% CI = 1.37–3.88) and 50–59 years (OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.49–3.14), the associations between the lowest quartiles of income and chewing difficulties were stronger than in the total population. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate a clear and distinct social gradient in clinical and subjective oral health indicators based on socioeconomic position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To assess the association between chewing difficulty and symptoms of depression in a representative sample of the Korean population. Design Cross-sectional. Setting Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey ( KNHANES). Participants KNHANES participants (N = 5,158). Measurements Chewing difficulty was assessed according to the self-reported presence of chewing problems using a structured questionnaire. Symptoms of depression were defined as having feelings of sadness or depression consecutively over 2 weeks during the last 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine the adjusted odds ratios ( AORs) and 95% confidence intervals ( CIs) of the associations between chewing difficulty and symptoms of depression, adjusted for age; sex; monthly household income; education; number of teeth; number of decayed, missing, or filled permanent teeth; periodontitis; state of dentition; tooth brushing frequency; regular dental visits; smoking status; alcohol consumption; hypertension; diabetes mellitus; and obesity. The interaction effects between chewing difficulty and confounders were evaluated, and age- and sex-stratified analyses were performed. Results There was a significant positive association between chewing difficulty and symptoms of depression in the fully adjusted model ( AOR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.48-2.33). The strength of the association was highest in men aged 60 and older ( AOR = 3.28, 95% CI = 1.54-7.00). Conclusion Chewing difficulty was independently associated with symptoms of depression in a representative sample of Korean adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the association between salivary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8- OHdG) and periodontitis among community-dwelling Korean adults. Methods A total of 211 adults (80 men and 131 women) were cross-sectionally surveyed from the Sunchang Longevity Cohort. Periodontitis was defined as having at least 30% of teeth with proximal attachment loss ≥5 mm. The salivary 8- OHdG level was categorized into tertiles: low (<0.916 ng/ml), medium (0.916 to <2.675 ng/ml) and high (≥2.675 ng/ml). Sociodemographic, habitual and systemic health-related factors were controlled for. Logistic regression analysis was performed for the outcome of severe periodontitis. Analysis of covariance in general linear model was performed for the outcome of 8- OHdG. Results The high 8- OHdG level showed a significant association with periodontitis. The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) was 2.40 (1.05-5.51), and it was highlighted by adding the interaction term with drinking and smoking. The adjusted mean log-transformed value of 8- OHdG was significantly higher in the severe periodontitis group (1.40 ng/ml) than in the control group (1.02 ng/ml) ( ancova, P = 0.028). Conclusions 8- OHdG was associated with periodontitis. Thus, salivary 8- OHdG could be a useful marker for periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To investigate the association between periodontitis and cognitive impairment in elderly Koreans. Design Cross-sectional study with age- and sex-matched case-control selection. Setting The Yangpyeong cardiovascular cohort ( YCC), a part of the Korean Genome Epidemiologic Study (Ko GES), Yangpyeong, South Korea. Participants Individuals with cognitive impairment (n = 65) and cognitively normal controls (n = 124) aged 60 and older from the YCC. Measurements Alveolar bone loss was assessed on dental panoramic radiographs to categorize the cumulative history of periodontitis ( HOP) into three groups: normal, moderate periodontitis, severe periodontitis. The Mini-Mental State Examination ( MMSE) was used to categorize participants as cognitively normal or cognitively impaired. Age- and sex-matched conditional logistic regression models were used for analysis. Confounders considered in the analysis were age, sex, drinking, smoking, exercise, total cholesterol, total protein, body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, intima-media thickness, hypertension medication, and depression. Results Participants with HOP were more likely to have cognitive impairment than those without (odds ratio = 2.14, 95% confidence interval = 1.04-4.41). The interaction effect of smoking and exercise on periodontitis highlighted the link. Conclusion Periodontitis was independently associated with cognitive impairment after controlling for various confounders. Further longitudinal research is needed to determine whether periodontitis plays a role in cognitive decline in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystalline anatase TiO 2 with nanosponge-like mesoporous morphologies was solvothermally synthesized following the recently reported route using random copolymer (4-vinylphenol and methyl methacrylate) as structure-directing agent. In particular, the synthesis conditions were varied over a wide range of synthesis gel compositions. Crystallinity of the titania products was checked with X-ray powder diffraction. Mesopore diameters, pore volume and specific surface area were analyzed using nitrogen adsorption. The result provided proper synthesis domains for highly mesoporous titania materials. The mesoporous materials were evaluated as supports for catalytic Pt nanoparticles to apply for alcohol-to-aldehyde partial oxidation reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although dental caries has been a major oral health problem for children, the association between dental caries and oral health related quality of life has been still controversial. This study aims to evaluate the association between the Korean version of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (K-CPQ) and dental caries among Korean children. Eight hundred one school children aged 8 to 14 years participated in this study. After the K-CPQ was validated we performed an association study. The K-CPQ was self-reported. Dental caries were evaluated by dentists using the World Health Organization Index. Correlation analyses (intraclass correlation coefficient, Cronbach’s alpha and Pearson’s correlation coefficient [r]) and linear regression models (partial r) including age, gender and type of school were applied. Untreated deciduous dental caries was associated with the K-CPQ8-10 overall score (partial r = 0.15, P <0.05). The link was highlighted in the domains of functional limitation and emotional well-being. Filled teeth due to caries (FT) was associated with the K-CPQ11-14 overall domain (partial r = 0.14, P = 0.002) as well as with the oral symptoms domain (partial r = 0.16, P = 0.001). This association was highlighted among public school children. Our data indicate that K-CPQ was independently associated with dental caries. The K-CPQ could be a practical tool to evaluate the subjective oral health among Korean children aged 8 to 14. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anti-obesity potential of an ethanolic extract of the edible red alga Callophyllis japonica extract (CJE) was investigated in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). CJE administration into HFD mice revealed suppression of body weight, adipose tissue weight, serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner. Also, it reduced serum levels of glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase, as well as the accumulation of fatty droplets in liver tissue. CJE and its ethyl acetate fraction inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by down-regulating the adipocyte-specific transcriptional regulators. Taken together, these results suggest that CJE reduces obesity in mice fed an HFD by inhibiting lipid accumulation and adipogenesis in the adipose tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Metabolic syndrome (MetS) may be associated with periodontitis. This study aimed to investigate whether the existence of periodontitis and MetS is cross-sectionally associated with matrix metalloproteinase ( MMP) in gingival crevicular fluid ( GCF) among community Koreans. Materials and Methods Medical and periodontal parameters were evaluated by physicians and dentists in 314 subjects (199 healthy, 58 only periodontitis, 34 only MetS and 23 both). The community periodontal index was used to assess periodontitis. MMP-8, 9, 13 were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Age, gender, monthly household income, smoking and drinking were interviewed as confounders. Analysis of covariance ( ANCOVA) was applied. Gender-stratified analyses were applied. Results After controlling for various confounders, MMP-8, MMP-9 and MMP-13 in GCF were significantly associated with periodontitis in both genders and MMP-9, MMP-13 were associated with MetS in women. MMP-8, MMP-9 and MMP-13 showed association with periodontitis-MetS coexistence non-synergistically in both genders. MMP-9 was synergistically associated with periodontitis-MetS coexistence in women. Conclusion Our results suggest that MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-13 in GCF were independently related to coexistence of periodontitis and MetS. MMP-9 and MMP-13 could be an appropriate common indicator of periodontitis and MetS in women. Further studies might guarantee that MMPs in GCF could screen periodontitis and MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Little information is available about the antiviral efficacy of lamivudine (LAM) and entecavir (ETV) in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, we compared the antiviral efficacy of LAM and ETV in these patients. Methods: The medical records of 134 antiviral therapy-naïve patients with HBV-related advanced HCC (modified Union for International Cancer Control [UICC] Tumor, Nodes, and Metastases [TNM] stages III-IV) treated between January 2005 and September 2009 were reviewed. After HCC diagnosis, 87 (64.9%) and 47 (35.1%) patients received LAM and ETV, respectively. Results: The mean age of patients (115 men, 19 women) was 53 years. Sixty-five (48.5%) and 69 (51.5%) patients had TNM stages III and IV HCC, respectively. Treatment outcomes during follow-up, including virologic, biochemical, and serologic responses and appearance of antiviral resistance, were similar in the LAM and ETV groups (all P > 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified Child-Pugh class, α-fetoprotein, and TNM stage as independent predictors of overall survival (all P < 0.05). Antiviral agent type (LAM vs ETV) did not influence overall survival (median 9.6 months in LAM vs 13.6 months in ETV group; P = 0.493). HCC treatment was not interrupted due to HBV flare up in any patient. Conclusions: The antiviral efficacy of LAM and ETV was similar and the type of antiviral agent did not influence overall survival in patients with HBV-related advanced HCC. Thus, LAM, which is less expensive than ETV in Korea, might be sufficient to control HBV in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Decomposition of hydrazine allows the attitude and altitude control of satellite. Macroporous–mesoporous alumina supported iridium catalyst (KCMC-7) has been developed using the fast dehydration of aluminium trihydroxide and subsequent multiple impregnations. The result of data analysis suggested that the obtained alumina was ρ-Al2O3 with both macro and mesopores. Significant amount of pentagonal Al sites after rehydration of ρ-Al2O3 was responsible for ultra high dispersion for ultra high loading of metal around 30wt%. The performance of the KCMC-7 measured using 4.5N dual thruster module was satisfactory until the end of life, providing enough thrust for the attitude and altitude control of satellite in the pressure range of 50–350psi. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Proper regulation of sebum production is important for maintaining skin homeostasis in humans. However, little is known about the role of epigenetic regulation in sebocyte lipogenesis. We investigated histone acetylation changes and their role in key lipogenic gene regulation during sebocyte lipogenesis using the human sebaceous gland cell line SZ95. Sebocyte lipogenesis is associated with a significant increase in histone acetylation. Treatment with anacardic acid (AA), a p300 histone acetyltransferase inhibitor, significantly decreased the lipid droplet number and the expression of key lipogenic genes, including sterol regulatory-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). In contrast, treatment with trichostatin A (TSA), a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, increased the expression of these genes. Global HDAC enzyme activity was decreased, and HDAC1 and HDAC2 expression was downregulated during sebaceous lipogenesis. Interestingly, HDAC1 knockdown increased lipogenesis through SREBP1 induction, whereas HDAC1 overexpression decreased lipogenesis and significantly suppressed SREBP1 promoter activity. HDAC1 and SREBP1 levels were inversely correlated in human skin sebaceous glands as demonstrated in immunofluorescence images. In conclusion, HDAC1 plays a critical role in reducing SREBP1 transcription, leading to decreased sebaceous lipogenesis. Therefore, HDAC1 activation could be an effective therapeutic strategy for skin diseases related to excessive sebum production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Korean Healthy Index scores were shown to increase as the number of teeth increased. • The number of teeth is significantly associated with diet quality. • Better oral health may improve diet quality and, ultimately, the general health. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between the number of teeth and diet quality for Korean adult population. Eligible participants in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey during 2013–2015 were included (N = 11,461). Participants were grouped into three groups depending on the total number of teeth: 28 teeth, 20−27 teeth, and 0−19 teeth. Diet quality was defined using the Korean Healthy Eating Index (KHEI) by 24 -h recall methods. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were applied controlling for age, income, education, smoking, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and hypertension. In fully adjusted models, each tooth showed an increased KHEI score by 0.133 score and 0.150 score in males and females, respectively (p < 0.001 for all). The KHEI scores of participants with 0–19 and 20–27 teeth were 2.357 and 0.810 lower in males than those with 28 teeth (p = 0.001). The KHEI scores for females with 0–19 and 20–27 teeth were 3.008 and 1.223 lower than those with all teeth (p < 0.001). Considering KHEI 14 components, there was a clear association between the components and the number of teeth in females and males. The results found a positively significant association between the number of teeth and diet quality in a nationally representative sample of the Korean adult population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently in diagnostic setting for breast cancer, FFDM and DBT are performed conjunctively. However, performing two imaging modalities may increase radiation exposure by double. Two-dimensional reconstructed images created from DBT with 2DSM, has a potential to replace conventional FFDM in concerning both radiation dosage and image quality. With increasing concerns for individual radiation exposure, studies analyzing radiation dosage in breast imaging modalities are needed. This study compared radiation dosage and image quality between DBT + 2DSM versus FFDM. 374 patients (mean age 52 years) who underwent both DBT and FFDM were retrospectively reviewed. Radiation dosage data were obtained by radiation dosage scoring and monitoring program Radimetrics (Bayer HealthCare, Whippany, NJ). Entrance dose and mean glandular doses in each breast were obtained for both modalities. To compare image quality of DBT + 2DSM and FFDM, a 5-point scoring system for lesion clarity was assessed. The parameters of radiation dosage (entrance dose, mean glandular dose) and image quality (lesion clarity scoring) were compared. For entrance dose, DBT had lower mean dosage (14.8 mGy) compared with FFDM (21.8 mGy, p-value < 0.0001). Mean glandular doses for both breasts were lower in DBT (Left 1.74, Right 2.1) compared with FFDM (Left 2.85, Right 2.74, p-value < 0.0001). Lesion clarity score was higher in DBT with 2DSM (mean score 4.03) compared with FFDM (3.82, p-value < 0.0001). DBT showed lower radiation entrance dose and mean glandular doses to both breasts compared with FFDM. DBT + 2DSM had better image quality than FFDM, suggesting that DBT with 2DSM has potential as an alternative to FFDM. • Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) is used adjunctively with conventional mammography. • DBT with 2D reconstructed image benefits in image quality and radiation exposure. • DBT may have potential as an alternative to conventional mammography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solvothermal synthesis route to mesoporous TiO 2 using a vinylphenol polymer structure-directing agent (SDA) was optimized to provide a high yield of bilayer nanosheets. The resultant TiO 2 material exhibited a high BET area of 420 m 2 g −1 after the removal of SDA. Structural analysis of the nanosheets was carried out using powder X-ray diffraction, high resolution-transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and solid-state NMR. The results indicated that the TiO 2 material consisted mainly of the bilayer nanosheets with (010) facet-dominant anatase crystal structure. The thickness of the nanosheet was 0.75 nm, corresponding to two unit-cell parameters along the b-axis in the anatase crystal system. More than 10% of the surface Ti atoms were terminated with bridging O–H groups and coordinatively unsaturated Ti atoms, which acted as Brönsted and Lewis acid sites. Accordingly, the anatase nanosheets exhibited catalytic performance in the liquid-phase Friedel–Crafts alkylation of aromatic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on capping with multivalent surfactants for zeolite nanocrystal synthesis. It says that zeolotes are family of microporous crystalline aluminosilicates and they function as ion exchangers, molecular sieves, and catalysts. It adds that synthesis of nanocrystalline zeolites with the use of multivalent surfactants (Mss) has been reported.

The article discusses the use of multivalent surfactant as a capping agent for the synthesis of zeolite nanocrystal. It states that the surfactant prevents crystal growth by covering nanoparticle surfaces through coordination bonding, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic attraction or using weak van der Waals interaction to the surface atoms. It mentions that the multivalent surfactant capping could be applicable to nanomaterials including metals, chalcogenides, and metal oxides.

Highlights: [•] Sasa quelpaertensis extract (SQE) inhibits adipogenesis by attenuating the expression of key adipogenic transcription factors. [•] SQE decreases the expression of SREBP-1c via AMPK pathway during the early phase of MDI-induced differentiation. [•] p-Coumaric acid suppressed adipogenesis during the late phase of MDI-induced differentiation. [•] p-Coumaric acid promotes fatty acid β-oxidation via AMPK pathway in mature adipocytes. [•] SQE and p-coumaric acid might have the anti-obesitic effects via AMPK pathway in 3T3-L1 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: p-Coumaric acid (3-[4-hydroxyphenyl]-2-propenoic acid) is a ubiquitous plant metabolite with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. In this study, we examined whether p-coumaric acid modulates glucose and lipid metabolism via AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in L6 skeletal muscle cells. p-Coumaric acid increased the phosphorylation of AMPK in a dose-dependent manner in differentiated L6 skeletal muscle cells. It also increased the phosphorylation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and the expression of CPT-1 mRNA and PPARα, suggesting that it promotes the β-oxidation of fatty acids. Also, it suppressed oleic acid-induced triglyceride accumulation, and enhanced 2-NBDG uptake in differentiated L6 muscle cells. Pretreatment with compound C inhibited AMPK activation, reduced ACC phosphorylation and 2-NBDG uptake, and increased triglyceride accumulation. However, p-coumaric acid counterbalanced the inhibitory effects of compound C. Taken together, these results suggest that p-coumaric acid modulates glucose and lipid metabolism via AMPK activation in L6 skeletal muscle cells and that it has potentially beneficial effects in improving or treating metabolic disorders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Progression of 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation is divided into early (days 0–2, D0–D2), intermediate (days 2–4, D2–D4), and late stages (day 4 onwards, D4-). In this study, we investigated the effects of fucoxanthin, isolated from the edible brown seaweed Petalonia binghamiae, on adipogenesis during the three differentiation stages of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. When fucoxanthin was applied during the early stage of differentiation (D0–D2), it promoted 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation, as evidenced by increased triglyceride accumulation. At the molecular level, fucoxanthin increased protein expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP1c), and aP2, and adiponectin mRNA expression, in a dose-dependent manner. However, it reduced the expression of PPARγ, C/EBPα, and SREBP1c during the intermediate (D2–D4) and late stages (D4–D7) of differentiation. It also inhibited the uptake of glucose in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes by reducing the phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1). These results suggest that fucoxanthin exerts differing effects on 3T3-L1 cells of different differentiation stages and inhibits glucose uptake in mature adipocytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We previously showed that an ethanolic extract of the edible brown algae Petalonia binghamiae promotes the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and decreases hyperglycemia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. Here, we report that a water-soluble extract of P. binghamiae thalli, prepared by enzymatic digestion, inhibits preadipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. In differentiating 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, the extract (designated PBEE) decreased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins α and β, and fatty acid-binding protein aP2. It also inhibited the mitotic clonal expansion process of adipocyte differentiation, and it inhibited insulin-stimulated uptake of glucose into mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes by reducing phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1. In rats with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity, PBEE exhibited potent anti-obesity effects. In this animal model, increases in body weight and fat storage were suppressed by the addition of PBEE to the drinking water at 500 mg/L for 30 days. PBEE supplementation reduced serum levels of glutamic pyruvic and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminases and increased the serum level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, it significantly decreased the accumulation of lipid droplets in liver tissue, suggesting a protective effect against HFD-induced hepatic steatosis. Taken together, these data demonstrate that PBEE inhibits preadipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis in cultured cells and in rodent models of obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) is implicated in epigenetic skin aging. • DVP modulated DNMT1 and extracellular matrix in vitro and in vivo. • Skin anti-aging epigenetic mechanism of DVP was revealed. • Potential of DNMT1 inhibitors as skin anti-aging agents was validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is the main contributing factor for skin aging. • UV treatment decreases the expression of HDACs and SIRTs in dermal fibroblasts. • HDAC4 may regulate MMP-1 and type I procollagen expression through the activation of JNK pathways. Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is the main contributing factor for skin aging. UV irradiation induces epigenetic changes in skin. It increases the activity of histone acetylases (HATs) but decreases that of histone deacetylases (HDACs). We aimed to investigate alterations in all classes of HDACs and sirtuins (SIRTs) in response to UV irradiation, and determine the HDACs regulating the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) and type I procollagen. Primary human dermal fibroblasts were UV irradiated. HDAC4 was knocked-down or overexpressed to investigate its effect on the expression of MMP-1 and type I procollagen. The mRNA and protein levels were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Among 11 HDACs and 7 SIRTs, we found that the expression of HDAC4, HDAC5, HDAC6, HDAC7, HDAC8, HDAC11, SIRT2, and SIRT3 were significantly and consistently reduced by UV at both mRNA and protein levels. Among these, the reduction of HDAC4 was responsible for the basal and UV-induced increase in the expression of MMP-1 and decrease in that of type I procollagen. Furthermore, the reduced HDAC4 could activate c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), resulting in an increase in MMP-1 and decrease in type I procollagen. UV treatment decreases the expression of HDACs and SIRTs in dermal fibroblasts; in particular, the UV-induced reduction in the expression of HDAC4 might play an important role in regulating the expression of MMP-1 and type I procollagen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ultraviolet (UV) radiation has been reported to influence epigenetic regulation by affecting the expression of genome regulators such as DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). DNMT1 is a “gene silencer,” that is responsible for the maintenance of DNA methylation and contribution to de novo methylation. Implications of DNMT1′s involvement in the expression of UV-induced proteins have been previously reported. Objective To investigate for changes in DNA methylation-associated gene expressions by UV and to analyze the role of DNA methylation in the suppression of TIMP2 in UV-irradiated human skin. Methods The expression of DNA methylation-associated proteins and TIMP2 were analyzed in UV-irradiated human skin in vivo and in human dermal fibroblasts in vitro . To investigate the relationship between DNMT1 and TIMP2, we assessed the effect of DNMT1 knockdown, inhibition and overexpression on TIMP2 levels in human dermal fibroblasts. Lastly, methylation-specific PCR was used to confirm increased DNA methylation in TIMP2 promoter in response to UV. Results DNMT1 expression significantly increased whereas TIMP2 expression decreased in UV-irradiated human skin in vivo and in vitro . Downregulation of DNMT1 by knockdown or inhibition resulted in increased TIMP2 expression, whereas the overexpression of DNMT1 resulted in decreased TIMP2 expression. Lastly, methylation-specific PCR confirmed increased methylation on the CpG island residing in TIMP2 promoter in UV-irradiated human dermal fibroblasts. Conclusion These findings suggest that UV-induced expression of DNMT1 may be responsible for mediating DNA hypermethylation in TIMP2, and thus, silencing its expression, in UV-exposed human skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims We aimed to evaluate the association of periodontitis with the development of early atherosclerotic vascular disease in Korean adults. Methods In this cross-sectional study, a total of 1343 adults aged over 40 years were recruited from a community-based cohort of Yangpyeong county, Korea, during the period 2010–2014. Only dentate individuals were included in the study. Subclinical atherosclerosis (SA) was defined as carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT)≥0.754 mm, as assessed bilaterally by B-mode ultrasound. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) was defined as ankle-brachial index (ABI)≤1.0, as measured by Doppler. History of periodontitis was assessed by measuring the radiographic alveolar bone loss (RABL) on a digital dental panorama and was classified into three groups: normal, moderate and severe periodontitis (≥2 non-adjacent interproximal sites with RABL ≥ 4 mm and 6 mm, respectively). The associations of periodontitis with SA and PAD were evaluated by multivariable logistic regression analysis and analysis of covariance, adjusted for age, sex, education level, tooth loss, smoking, drinking, exercise, obesity, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, hs-CRP, diabetes and hypertension. Stratified analyses were performed to identify specific risk groups. Results After controlling for confounders, severe periodontitis was associated with SA [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.55; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07–2.24] and PAD (aOR = 2.03; 95% CI: 1.05–3.93). These associations were highlighted in never-smokers. For increasing severity of periodontitis, the adjusted mean cIMT increased ( p = 0.011) while that of ABI decreased ( p = 0.033). Conclusions Our data showed that periodontitis is a substantially important risk factor for atherosclerotic vascular disease among Korean adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A widely employed route for synthesizing mesostructured materials is the use of surfactant micelles or amphiphilic block copolymers as structure-directing agents. A versatile synthesis method is described for mesostructured materials composed of ultrathin inorganic frameworks using amorphous linear-chain polymers functionalized with a random distribution of side groups that can participate in inorganic crystallization. Tight binding of the side groups with inorganic species enforces strain in the polymer backbones, limiting the crystallization to the ultrathin micellar scale. This method is demonstrated for a variety of materials, such as hierarchically nanoporous zeolites, their aluminophosphate analogue, TiO2 nanosheets of sub-nanometer thickness, and mesoporous TiO2, SnO2, and ZrO2. This polymer-directed synthesis is expected to widen our accessibility to unexplored mesostructured materials in a simple and mass-producible manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A widely employed route for synthesizing mesostructured materials is the use of surfactant micelles or amphiphilic block copolymers as structure-directing agents. A versatile synthesis method is described for mesostructured materials composed of ultrathin inorganic frameworks using amorphous linear-chain polymers functionalized with a random distribution of side groups that can participate in inorganic crystallization. Tight binding of the side groups with inorganic species enforces strain in the polymer backbones, limiting the crystallization to the ultrathin micellar scale. This method is demonstrated for a variety of materials, such as hierarchically nanoporous zeolites, their aluminophosphate analogue, TiO2 nanosheets of sub-nanometer thickness, and mesoporous TiO2, SnO2, and ZrO2. This polymer-directed synthesis is expected to widen our accessibility to unexplored mesostructured materials in a simple and mass-producible manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the Taguchi experimental design method using an L16 orthogonal array was attempted in order to investigate the optimal operating conditions for the CO2 methanation process in Ni-based catalysts. The relative influence of the main factors affecting CO2 conversion and CH4 yield was ranked as follows: reactor pressure > space velocity > reaction temperature. The optimal combination of operating conditions was a reactor temperature of 315 °C, a pressure of 19 bar, and a space velocity of 6000 h−1. The effect of the H2/CO2 ratio on CO2 conversion and CH4 yield was further considered under these optimal operating conditions. Moreover, the catalyst was characterized in order to investigate the production of coke through Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The amount of coke produced after the reaction for approximately 24 h was ~2 wt.%. Therefore, the desired CH4 yield and long-term operational stability were successfully obtained using the Taguchi design method and catalyst characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The anti-diabetic potential of Petalonia binghamiae extract (PBE) was evaluated in vivo. Dietary administration of PBE to streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice significantly lowered blood glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance. The mode of action by which PBE attenuated diabetes was investigated in vitro using 3T3-L1 cells. PBE treatment stimulated 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation as evidenced by increased triglyceride accumulation. At the molecular level, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and terminal marker protein aP2, as well as the mRNA of GLUT4 were up-regulated by PBE. In mature adipocytes, PBE significantly stimulated the uptake of glucose and the expression of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1). Furthermore, PBE increased PPARγ luciferase reporter gene activity in COS-1 cells. Taken together, these results suggest that the in vivo anti-diabetic effect of PBE is mediated by both insulin-like and insulin-sensitizing actions in adipocytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are conserved enzymes that remove acetyl groups from lysine side chains in histones and other proteins and play a crucial role in epigenetic regulation. Previously, we showed that histone acetylation is implicated in ultraviolet (UV)-induced inflammation and matrix impairment. To elucidate the histone acetylation status and specific HDACs involved in skin aging, we examined the changes in histone acetylation, global HDAC activity, and the expression of HDACs and sirtuins (SIRTs) in intrinsically aged and photoaged human skin as well as in UV-irradiated human skin in vivo. Following acute UV irradiation, the acetylated histone H3 (AcH3) level was increased, but HDAC activity and the expression levels of HDAC4, HDAC11, and SIRT4 were significantly decreased. In intrinsically aged skin, AcH3 levels were increased, but HDAC activity and the expression levels of HDAC4, HDAC5, HDAC10, HDAC11, SIRT6, and SIRT7 were significantly decreased. However, histone acetylation and HDAC expression in photoaged skin were not significantly different from those in intrinsically aged skin. Collectively, HDAC4 and HDAC11 were decreased in both UV-irradiated and intrinsically aged skin, suggesting that they may play a universal role in increased histone acetylation associated with skin aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]