Effects on keratinocytes of the traditional combination of herb extract (Royal Oji Complex) implicated the improvement of young children's skin moisture and barrier.

BACKGROUND: Natural products are often friendly and can be used on children's skin after systematic and careful research. Therefore, in this study, the Royal Oji Complex (ROC), a product with natural ingredients, was used to study their effectiveness on keratinocytes taken from the skin of children from 0 to 3 years old. METHOD: Normal human epidermal keratinocytes and tissue-isolated keratinocytes (TIKC) from young donors were treated with three different concentrations of ROC: 0.1, 1, and 10 ppm. The mRNA expression of the epidermal barrier's essential genes, such as hyaluronic acid synthase 3 (Has3), involucrin (IVL), loricrin (LOR), and claudin-1 (CLD1) was investigated using qRT-PCR. Ceramide content was measured by ELISA, with retinoic acid (R.A.) and amarogentin (AMA) serving as positive controls. RESULTS: ROC significantly elevated HAS3 gene expression in HEKn cells, especially at 10 ppm, indicating potential advantages for skin hydration in young infants. IVL increased at first but decreased as ROC concentrations increased. LOR was upregulated at lower ROC concentrations but reduced at higher doses. CLD1 gene expression increased considerably in HEKn but reduced with increasing ROC doses. Ceramide concentration increased somewhat but not significantly at 10 ppm. CONCLUSION: ROC shows potential in altering keratinocyte gene expression, with unique responses in HEKn and TIKC from young donors. While changes in ceramide content were insignificant, these results help to comprehend ROC's multiple effects on young children's skin.

An evaluation of the effectiveness of 'ULTRACOL 200' in enhancing nasolabial fold wrinkles through cutaneous repair.

BACKGROUND: Injectable filler, a nonsurgical beauty method, has gained popularity in rejuvenating sagging skin. In this study, polydioxanone (PDO) was utilized as the main component of the ULTRACOL200 filler that helps stimulate collagenesis and provide skin radiant effects. The study aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of ULTRACOL200 with other commercialized products in visually improving dermatological problems. METHODS: Herein, 31 participants aged between 20 and 59 years were enrolled in the study. 1 mL of the testing product, as well as the quantity for the compared groups was injected into each participants face side individually. Subsequently, skin texture and sunken volume of skin were measured using ANTERA 3D CS imaging technology at three periods: before the application, 4 weeks after the initial application, and 4 weeks after the 2nd application of ULTRACOL200. RESULTS: The final results of skin texture and wrinkle volume evaluation consistently demonstrated significant enhancement. Consequently, subjective questionnaires were provided to the participants to evaluate the efficacy of the testing product, illustrating satisfactory responses after the twice applications. CONCLUSION: The investigation has contributed substantially to the comprehension of a PDO-based filler (ULTRACOL200) for skin enhancement and provided profound insight for future clinical trials.

Enhancement of skin rejuvenation and hair growth through novel near-infrared light emitting diode (nNIR) lighting: in vitro and in vivo study.

The study aimed to explore the impact of a novel near-infrared LED (nNIR) with an extended spectrum on skin enhancement and hair growth. Various LED sources, including White and nNIRs, were compared across multiple parameters: cytotoxicity, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction, skin thickness, collagen synthesis, collagenase expression, and hair follicle growth. Experiments were conducted on human skin cells and animal models. Cytotoxicity, ATP synthesis, and ROS reduction were evaluated in human skin cells exposed to nNIRs and Whites. LED irradiation effects were also studied on a UV-induced photoaging mouse model, analyzing skin thickness, collagen synthesis, and collagenase expression. Hair growth promotion was examined as well. Results revealed both White and nNIR were non-cytotoxic to human skin cells. nNIR enhanced ATP and collagen synthesis while reducing ROS levels, outperforming the commonly used 2chip LEDs. In the UV-induced photoaging mouse model, nNIR irradiation led to reduced skin thickness, increased collagen synthesis, and lowered collagenase expression. Additionally, nNIR irradiation stimulated hair growth, augmented skin thickness, and increased hair follicle count. In conclusion, the study highlighted positive effects of White and nNIR irradiation on skin and hair growth. However, nNIR exhibited superior outcomes compared to White. Its advancements in ATP content, collagen synthesis, collagenase inhibition, and hair growth promotion imply increased ATP synthesis activity. These findings underscore nNIR therapy's potential as an innovative and effective approach for enhancing skin and promoting hair growth.

Comparative In Vivo Study of Solid-Type Pure Hyaluronic Acid in Thread Form: Safety and Efficacy Compared to Hyaluronic Acid Filler and Polydioxanone Threads.

INTRODUCTION: Although various products are commonly used for skin rejuvenation, solid-type hyaluronic acid (HA) as an injectable form has not been researched or utilized. This study aimed to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of solid-type HA in thread form, which differs from the conventional gel-type HA commonly used. METHOD: Solid-type HA threads, conventional HA fillers, and polydioxanone (PDO) threads were inserted into the dorsal subcutaneous layer of mice. Photographs were taken on days 0, 1, 3, and 7, and on day 7, the samples were harvested for histological analysis. Inflammatory reactions and detection of collagen were confirmed through tissue staining, and real-time PCR was conducted to quantify collagen synthesis. RESULTS: In the histological analysis, the PDO threads exhibited a greater inflammatory response compared to the HA threads. Masson's trichrome staining revealed a higher degree of collagen synthesis in the HA thread group compared to the HA filler group. While collagen type 1 expression was significantly higher in the PDO thread group than in the HA thread group, the HA thread group showed higher expression levels of collagen type 3. Furthermore, the PDO thread group demonstrated a statistically significant increase in TGF-ß1 compared to the HA group. CONCLUSION: This in vivo study demonstrated the stable application of solid-type pure HA threads and their potential for inducing collagen production, while also yielding a low inflammatory response. The findings highlight the promising applications of solid-type HA in the field of cosmetic dermatology. NO LEVEL ASSIGNED: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Vitamin D Attenuates Fibrotic Properties of Fibrous Dysplasia-Derived Cells for the Transit towards Osteocytic Phenotype.

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) poses a therapeutic challenge due to the dysregulated extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation within affected bone tissues. In this study, we investigate the therapeutic potential of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) in managing FD by examining its effects on FD-derived cells in vitro. Our findings demonstrate that 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment attenuates the pro-fibrotic phenotype of FD-derived cells by suppressing the expression of key pro-fibrotic markers and inhibiting cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, 1,25(OH)2D3 enhances mineralization by attenuating pre-osteoblastic cellular hyperactivity and promoting maturation towards an osteocytic phenotype. These results offer valuable insights into potential treatments for FD, highlighting the role of 1,25(OH)2D3 in modulating the pathological properties of FD-derived cells.

A Rare Skeletal Disorder, Fibrous Dysplasia: A Review of Its Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Prospects.

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a rare, non-hereditary skeletal disorder characterized by its chronic course of non-neoplastic fibrous tissue buildup in place of healthy bone. A myriad of factors have been associated with its onset and progression. Perturbation of cell-cell signaling networks and response outputs leading to disrupted building blocks, incoherent multi-level organization, and loss of rigid structural motifs in mineralized tissues are factors that have been identified to participate in FD induction. In more recent years, novel insights into the unique biology of FD are transforming our understandings of its pathology, natural discourse of the disease, and treatment prospects. Herein, we built upon existing knowledge with recent findings to review clinical, etiologic, and histological features of FD and discussed known and potential mechanisms underlying FD manifestations. Subsequently, we ended on a note of optimism by highlighting emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at either halting or ameliorating disease progression.

A Comprehensive Review of Natural Compounds for Wound Healing: Targeting Bioactivity Perspective.

Wound healing is a recovering process of damaged tissues by replacing dysfunctional injured cellular structures. Natural compounds for wound treatment have been widely used for centuries. Numerous published works provided reviews of natural compounds for wound healing applications, which separated the approaches based on different categories such as characteristics, bioactivities, and modes of action. However, current studies provide reviews of natural compounds that originated from only plants or animals. In this work, we provide a comprehensive review of natural compounds sourced from both plants and animals that target the different bioactivities of healing to promote wound resolution. The compounds were classified into four main groups (i.e., anti-inflammation, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and collagen promotion), mostly studied in current literature from 1992 to 2022. Those compounds are listed in tables for readers to search for their origin, bioactivity, and targeting phases in wound healing. We also reviewed the trend in using natural compounds for wound healing.

Staphylococcus epidermidis Cicaria, a Novel Strain Derived from the Human Microbiome, and Its Efficacy as a Treatment for Hair Loss.

The skin tissue of the scalp is unique from other skin tissues because it coexists with hair, and many differences in microbial composition have been confirmed. In scalp tissues, hair loss occurs due to a combination of internal and external factors, and several studies are being conducted to counteract this. However, not many studies have addressed hair loss from the perspective of the microbiome. In this study, subjects with hair loss and those with normal scalps were set as experimental and control groups, respectively. In the experimental group, hair loss had progressed, and there was a large difference in microbiome composition compared to the group with normal scalps. In particular, differences in Accumulibacter, Staphylococcus, and Corynebacterium were found. From Staphylococcus epidermidis Cicaria, two active components were isolated as a result of repeated column chromatography. Spectroscopic data led to the determination of chemical structures for adenosine and biotin. Fractions were obtained, and ex vivo tests were conducted using hair follicles derived from human scalp tissue. When the microbiome adenosine-treated group was compared to the control group, hair follicle length was increased, and hair root diameter was maintained during the experimental periods. In addition, the Cicaria culture medium and the microbial adenosine- and biotin-treated groups maintained the anagen phase, reducing progression to the catagen phase in the hair growth cycle. In conclusion, it was confirmed that the Cicaria culture medium and the microbial adenosine and biotin derived from the culture were effective in inhibiting hair loss.

The Safety of Operating on Breasts With a History of Prior Reduction Mammoplasty: Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Imaging Analysis of Angiogenesis.

BACKGROUND: The vascularity of the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is altered after reduction mammoplasty, increasing the risk of complications after repeat reduction or nipple-sparing mastectomy. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate angiogenesis of the NAC via serial analysis of magnetic resonance images. METHODS: Magnetic resonance images of breasts after reduction mammoplasty were analyzed for 35 patients (39 breasts) from 3-dimensional reconstructions of maximum-intensity projection images. All veins terminating at the NAC were classified as internal mammary, anterior intercostal, or lateral thoracic in origin. The vein with the largest diameter was considered the dominant vein. Images were classified based on the time since reduction: <6 months, 6 to 12 months, 12 to 24 months, >2 years. RESULTS: The average number of veins increased over time: 1.17 (<6 months), 1.56 (6-12 months), 1.64 (12-24 months), 1.73 (>2 years). Within 6 months, the pedicle was the only vein. Veins from other sources began to appear at 6 to 12 months. In most patients, at least 2 veins were available after 1 year. After 1 year, the internal mammary vein was the most common dominant vein regardless of the pedicle used. CONCLUSIONS: Repeat reduction mammoplasty or nipple-sparing mastectomy should be performed ≥1 year following the initial procedure. After 1 year, the superior or superomedial pedicle may represent the safest option when the previous pedicle is unknown.

Effects of a Catechol-Functionalized Hyaluronic Acid Patch Combined with Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Diabetic Wound Healing.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic inflammation and impaired neovascularization play critical roles in delayed wound healing in diabetic patients. To overcome the limitations of current diabetic wound (DBW) management interventions, we investigated the effects of a catechol-functionalized hyaluronic acid (HA-CA) patch combined with adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) in DBW mouse models. METHODS: Diabetes in mice (C57BL/6, male) was induced by streptozotocin (50 mg/kg, >250 mg/dL). Mice were divided into four groups: control (DBW) group, ADSCs group, HA-CA group, and HA-CA + ADSCs group (n = 10 per group). Fluorescently labeled ADSCs (5 × 105 cells/100 µL) were transplanted into healthy tissues at the wound boundary or deposited at the HA-CA patch at the wound site. The wound area was visually examined. Collagen content, granulation tissue thickness and vascularity, cell apoptosis, and re-epithelialization were assessed. Angiogenesis was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot. RESULTS: DBW size was significantly smaller in the HA-CA + ADSCs group (8% ± 2%) compared with the control (16% ± 5%, p < 0.01) and ADSCs (24% ± 17%, p < 0.05) groups. In mice treated with HA-CA + ADSCs, the epidermis was regenerated, and skin thickness was restored. CD31 and von Willebrand factor-positive vessels were detected in mice treated with HA-CA + ADSCs. The mRNA and protein levels of VEGF, IGF-1, FGF-2, ANG-1, PIK, and AKT in the HA-CA + ADSCs group were the highest among all groups, although the Spred1 and ERK expression levels remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of HA-CA and ADSCs provided synergistic wound healing effects by maximizing paracrine signaling and angiogenesis via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Therefore, ADSC-loaded HA-CA might represent a novel strategy for the treatment of DBW.

A smartphone-based teleconsultation system for the management of chronic pressure injuries.

We investigated the accuracy of pressure injury evaluation using tele-devices and examined the concordance between automatically generated recommendations and primary manual recommendations. Caregivers took photos and videos of pressure injuries using smartphones with built-in cameras and uploaded the media to the application. The wound team evaluated the wound using a specially modified version of the Pressure Sore Status Tool. This was compared with the Pressure Sore Status Tool score assessed during the actual examination of the patient. We developed an automatic algorithm for dressing based on the Pressure Sore Status Tool score, checking for consistency between this and the primary manual recommendation. A total of 60 patients diagnosed with pressure injuries were included. The κ coefficients indicated substantial agreement for wound size and total score, and excellent for all other items. We found that the overall concordance rates were statistically significant for all items (p < 0.001). For the primary dressing, the κ coefficient for the concordance rate of automatic algorithm and manual recommendation was 0.771, while that of teleconsultation system and manual recommendation was 0.971. For the secondary dressing, the figures were 0.798 and 0.989, respectively. All values were statistically significant (p < 0.001). We presented strong evidence documenting the utilization of a smartphone, patient-driven system, and demonstrated that the measurements obtained were comparable to the ones obtained by a trained, on-site, wound team. Furthermore, we confirmed agreement between automatically generated recommendations and primary manual recommendations.

A Novel Method for Lower Blepharoplasty: Repositioning of the Orbital Septum Using Inverted T-Shaped Plication.

BACKGROUND: Numerous techniques have been used for lower blepharoplasty. The techniques can be classified into four principles: excision of excess fat, septal reset, orbital fat repositioning, and reinforcement of the attenuated orbital septum. OBJECTIVES: We modified the conventional approach of septal reinforcement to utilize an inverted T-shaped plication with preservation of the orbital fat, repositioning the septum below the arcus marginalis to refine tear-trough deformity. METHODS: From April 2010 to September 2015, 93 individuals underwent bilateral lower blepharoplasty. Retrospective chart reviews were performed, and the results and complications during the follow-up period were recorded and photographed. RESULTS: The patients comprised 76 women and 17 men. Thirteen, 33, and 47 patients exhibited mild, moderate, and severe fat herniation, respectively, accompanied by tear-trough deformity. A total of 70 and 23 patients underwent lower blepharoplasty via subciliary and transconjunctival approaches, respectively. We performed inverted T-shaped plication of the orbital septum in mild and moderate cases and X-shaped plication in severe cases, and in moderate and severe cases, we performed septal repositioning simultaneously. The mean follow-up period was 25 months. When immediate mild lid retraction or lid malposition was observed, it recovered without specific treatment within 1 to 2 weeks. No permanent lid malposition or ectropion was observed in any of the patients. CONCLUSIONS: Septal plication with inverted T-shape or X-shape can minimize the downward forces that affect postoperative eyelid malposition and ectropion. Further, these procedures provide sufficiently strong reinforcement of the orbital septum to restore infraorbital fat herniation.

Relationship Between Obesity and Surgical Complications After Reduction Mammaplasty: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Although many patients who undergo reduction mammaplasty are obese, reports on whether obesity is a risk factor for postoperative complications have been conflicting. Objectives: This systematic literature review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the relationship between obesity and surgical complications after reduction mammaplasty. Methods: The PubMed, Medline, and Embase databases were searched between 1998 and 2016 using the MeSH terms and keywords "reduction mammoplasty (mammaplasty)," "breast reduction," "obesity," "body weight," "body mass index," and "risk factor." Results: Among 26 studies that reported surgical complication risk and patient body weight, 11 concluded that obesity is not a risk factor and 15 reported that high body mass index increases surgical risk. On comparing obese and non-obese patients, we found that obese patients had a higher relative risk of surgical complications (1.38, 95% confidence interval 1.13-1.69), particularly skin and fat necrosis (2.01, 95% confidence interval 1.54-2.63). The pooled risk further increased with an increase in body mass index, and it was 1.71 for body mass index >35 kg/m2 and 2.05 for body mass index >40 kg/m2. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis indicated that the risk of surgical complications and tissue necrosis after reduction mammaplasty is higher in obese patients than in non-obese patients and that the risk gradually increases with an increase in the severity of obesity. The findings of this study could form a basis for preoperative patient education, surgical method selection, and determination of the extent of postoperative care.

Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies.

BACKGROUND: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) continues to receive much attention in many clinical fields. Also, LLLT has been used to enhance the proliferation of various cell lines, including stem cells. This study investigated the effect of LLLT on human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) through in vitro and in vivo studies. METHODS: Low-level laser irradiation of cultured ADSCs was performed using a 830 nm Ga-Al-As (gallium-aluminum-arsenide) laser. Then, proliferation of ADSCs was quantified by a cell counting kit-8. In the in vivo study, irradiated ADSCs or non-irradiated ADSCs were transplanted, and then, low-level laser irradiation of each rat was performed as per the protocol. Cell viability was quantified by immunofluorescent staining using the human mitochondria antibody. RESULTS: In the in vitro study, the laser-irradiated groups showed an increase in absorbance compared to the control group. Also, in the in vivo study, there was a significant increase in the number of human ADSCs in the laser-irradiated groups compared to the control group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed that LLLT could enhance the proliferation and viability of ADSCs. The ADSCs enhanced by LLLT could be applied in various clinical fields. With the use of LLLT, the proliferation and viability of various cells can be enhanced, besides ADSCs. NO LEVEL ASSIGNED: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://www.springer.com/00266 .

Comparison of quality of life based on surgical technique in patients with breast cancer.

OBJECTIVE: More than 80% of women with breast cancer survive for more than 5 years; quality of life is an important issue in these patients. The aim of this study was to assess differences in quality of life among patients who have undergone breast-conserving surgery, total mastectomy and immediate reconstruction after total mastectomy. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted during follow-up visits. Women who underwent surgical treatment at least 2 years prior were eligible if they were aged 20-70 years and had a diagnosis of breast cancer (Stages 0-III). Quality of life was evaluated based on the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire breast cancer-specific module, Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale, Beck Depression Index, Body Image Scale and sexual scale of the Cancer Rehabilitation Evaluation System. RESULTS: A total of 407 patients completed the questionnaires; 254 were treated with breast-conserving surgery, 122 with total mastectomy and 31 with reconstruction after total mastectomy. The mean period between surgery and the survey was 49 months. Women in the breast-conserving surgery group showed better outcomes than women in the total mastectomy and reconstruction after total mastectomy groups with respect to emotional-social function, nausea/vomiting, financial difficulty, body image, arm symptoms and self-esteem. Patients in the reconstruction after total mastectomy group had significantly better outcomes on the sexual scale of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire breast cancer-specific module and arm symptoms than the total mastectomy group. CONCLUSIONS: Quality of life was better in the breast-conserving surgery group than in the total mastectomy or reconstruction after total mastectomy groups, and the total mastectomy and reconstruction after total mastectomy groups had similar quality of life. Efforts to evaluate and improve the quality of life of patients with breast cancer should be continued.

Effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide in the treatment of pressure ulcers.

This study aimed to examine the positive effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) on the wound-healing process in pressure ulcers. In this randomized controlled trial, the effects of PDRN were compared over time between an experimental group (n=11) and a control group (n=12). The former was administered the same dose of PDRN intramuscularly (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, for 5 days) for 2 weeks and perilesionally (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, twice a week) for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint for determining efficacy was wound healing in the pressure ulcers, which was reflected by the wound surface area determined using VISITRAK Digital (Smith & Nephew, Largo, FL). The secondary endpoint was the pressure ulcer scale for healing score, determined using pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH Tool 3.0 developed by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel). After the 4-week treatment period, PDRN therapy was found to significantly reduce the wound size and PUSH score, without adverse effect during the treatment. The findings indicate that PDRN can positively modify the wound healing process in pressure ulcers, and its use could improve the clinical outcomes of patients and lower the need for additional therapies or hospital stay.