[Mid- and long-term outcomes and prognostic factors of drug-coated balloon angioplasty for treatment of femoropopliteal long lesions].

Objective: To examine the effective and safe outcomes of drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty for the treatment of femoropopliteal long lesions in mid-term and long-term follow-up. Methods: The clinical data of 114 patients with symptomatic (Rutherford 2 to 6) femoropopliteal long lesions who underwent angioplasty with DCB between June 2016 and May 2021 at Department of Vascular Surgery,Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 75 males and 39 females were enrolled, aged (71.9±8.4)years (range: 49 to 89 years). Among 138 lesions in 114 patients, there were 111 de nove lesions (80.4%, 111/138). Total occlusions were recanalized in 116 limbs (84.1%, 116/138). The lesion length was (280.9±78.7)mm (range: 150 to 520 mm). DCB angioplasty combined with debulking devices was used in 59 lesions (42.8%, 59/138).The bail-out stent implantation was performed in 27 limbs (19.6%, 27/138). The Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate cumulative primary patency rate, freedom from the clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR) rate and accumulate survival rate. Univariate and multivariate analyses with Cox proportional hazards models were performed to determine the significant prognostic factors for primary patency. Results: DCB angioplasty was completed in 114 patients. The technical success rate was 98.2%(112/114). The mean follow-up time was 18 months (range: 3 to 54 months).The results showed that primary patency rates at 12, 24 and 36 months postoperatively were 87.5%, 75.2% and 55.1%, respectively. Freedom from CD-TLR rate at 12, 24 and 36 months postoperatively were 92.4%, 81.8% and 68.7%, respectively. Accumulate survival rate at 12, 24 and 36 months postoperatively were 96.2%, 94.0% and 80.2%. Multivariate Cox's regression analyses showed that chronic limb-threatening ischemia(CLTI) (HR=2.629, 95%CI:1.519 to 4.547, P<0.01) and hyperlipidemia (HR=2.228, 95%CI: 1.004 to 4.948, P=0.026) were independent prognosis factors for primary patency in DCB treatment of femoropopliteal long lesions. Conclusions: DCB provided favorable outcomes for the treatment of femoropopliteal long lesions. CLTI and hyperlipidemia are independent prognosis factors for restenosis after DCB angioplasty.

[Comparative study on radio-opacity of dental composite resin materials'determination using film imaging and digital imaging].

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of different imaging methods on radio-opacity. Digital imaging and traditional film imaging were used to determine the radio-opacity of dental composite resin materials. METHODS: Fourteen dental composite resins commonly used in clinic were prepared for disc samples with thickness of 1 mm and diameter of 15 mm respectively. The aluminum step wedge was used as the reference and the disc samples were irradiated with X-rays by the traditional film imaging, phosphor imaging plate and charge-coupled device(CCD) intra-oral X-ray sensor respectively. Exposure was set at 65 kV and 7 mA, with 300 mm focus to film distance and the exposure time was 0.25 s. After developing and fixing the film, the optical density of the image of the sample and that of each step of the aluminum step wedge were measured using the densitometer. The digital image file was exported to grey scale analysis software of Adobe Photoshop® to measure the average grey value in the sample image and aluminum step wedge image. The curves were drawn corresponding to the optical density/gray value of each step of the aluminum step wedge and its thickness, and the equivalent thickness of the aluminum plate was calculated according to the optical density/gray value of the actual measured thickness of the sample, so as to evaluate the radio-opacity of dental composite resin material. RESULTS: For the same sample, the aluminum equivalent measured by traditional film imaging and two other digital imagings had significant differences among the 14 composite resins (P < 0.05), and the aluminum equivalent measured by the two digital imagings were greater than that of the traditional film. Moreover the aluminum equivalent measured by the two digital imagings was also different, and the aluminum equivalent measured by the CCD intra-oral X-ray sensor in most composite resins was larger than that measured by phosphor imaging plate. The same sample was photographed with the same imaging method, and the aluminum equivalent was different after three exposures. The standard deviation of aluminum equivalent measured by phosphor imaging plate was the largest, while that measured by CCD intra-oral X-ray sensor was the smallest. Among the 14 dental composite resin materials, the aluminum equivalent of Tetric N-Ceram and Te-Econom Plus measured by traditional film imaging and phosphor imaging plate was significantly higher than other composite resins. CONCLUSION: Based on clinical significance, three kinds of sensors designed to measure the radio-opacity of dental composite resin, the value of aluminum equivalent will change according to different types of sensors. The aluminum equivalent measured by CCD intra-oral X-ray sensor was higher than that measured by phosphor imaging plate, and the aluminum equivalent measured by phosphor imaging plate was higher than that measured by traditional film imaging. Moreover, even though the same sensor was used, the aluminum equivalent measured by multiple exposures was different. The standard deviation of the aluminum equivalent measured by phosphor imaging plate was greater than that measured by traditional film imaging and CCD intra-oral X-ray sensor. The three sensors in this study could be used for evaluating the radio-opacity of dental composite resin materials. But no matter what kind of sensor was used to measure the radio-opacity of dental composite resin, it complied to ISO 4049: 2019 standard, the materials were suitable for clinical use.

[Grading model for drug-coated balloon treating femoropopliteal de novo lesions and potential benefit from debulking].

Objectives: To establish a grading model on prognosis of drug-coated balloon (DCB) treatment on femoropopliteal de novo lesions, and assess whether patients at high risk could benefit from combination of directional atherectomy(DA). Methods: The clinical data of 114 patients with femoropopliteal de novo lesions admitted to Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital from October 2015 to January 2019 were collected retrospectively. There were 95 patients(108 limbs) underwent DCB treatment, including 66 males and 29 females, aged 71.9 years old(range:48 to 91 years), and 19 patients (21 limbs) underwent DA combined with DCB treatment, including 13 males and 6 females, aged 69.5 years old(range: 62 to 80 years). The demographic data, intraoperative and postoperative conditions of the patients were collected. Cox regression model was performed for modeling and then goodness of fit was tested. Kaplan-Meier estimate was carried out between the two groups for patients at high risk and low risk, respectively. Results: All patients were followed up for more than 24 months. Restenosis occurred on 34 limbs in DCB group and 3 limbs in DA+DCB group. Severe calcification(HR=3.804, 95%CI:2.460 to 5.883), popliteal artery involvement (HR=2.104, 95%CI:1.368 to 3.236), long lesion (HR=1.824, 95%CI:1.196 to 2.780), poor runoff(HR=1.736, 95%CI:1.025 to 2.940), chronic kidney disease(HR=1.601, 95%CI:1.040 to 2.463) were independent risk factors of restenosis after DCB treatment, and were defined 3, 2, 1, 1 and 1 points, respectively. Total points≥3 was regarded as high risk group. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients in low risk group did not benefit from DA+DCB comparing with DCB with regard to primary patency at 24 months (77.78% vs. 90.31%, P=0.271) while patients benefited from DA+DCB comparing with DCB in high risk group(88.26% vs. 20.80%, P<0.01). Conclusions: The grading model shows satisfying clinical value. The clinical effect of DA+DCB is better than DCB along in high risk group. Patients at high risk are supposed to receive aggressive vessel preparation like DA.

[Rapamycin activates autophagy by inhibiting mTOR pathway to alleviate early osteoporosis in rats with skeletal fluorosis].

Objective: To investigate the effects of rapamycin target protein (mTOR) pathway and autophagy on bone formation and bone resorption in fluorosis osteoporosis in rats. Methods: In September 2018, a rat model of skeletal fluorosis was established by intragastric administration of fluorine. The experimental animals were divided into control group, 10 mgF(-)/kg group, 20 mgF(-)/kg group, 2 mg/kg rapamycin (RAPA) +10 mgF(-)/kg group and 2 mg/kg RAPA+20 mgF(-)/kg group, 20 per group. The experiment lasted for 3 months. The changes of bone tissue in rats were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Bone mineral density (BMD) and biomechanical indexes, such as Modulus of elasticity, Stiffness, Maximum stress and Maximum load, were measured by BMD and biomechanical biometer. Serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) , osteocalcin (BGP) , osteoprotectin (OPG) , type I procollagen amino-terminal peptide (PINP) , tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP) and nuclear factor kappa B receptor activator ligand (RANKL) were determined by enzymatic linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) . Bone tissue phosphorylated mTOR (p-mTOR) , autophagy-related index selective autophagy adaptor protein p62, microtubule associated protein II (LC3-II) , ALP, osteoblastic transcription factor (Osterix) , and RNT Expression of related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and bone resorption indicator RANKL were detected by Western blotting. Results: Compared with the control group, dental fluorosis in the 10 mgF(-)/kg and 20 mgF(-)/kg groups was significantly increased, periosteum thickness and absorption lacunae appeared, and BGP, OPG, PINP, TRACP and RANKL in serum contents were increased (P<0.05) , BMD, Modulus of elasticity, Stiffness, Maximum stress and Maximum load of bone tissue decreased significantly (P<0.05) , and the expressions of p-mTOR and p62 were decreased (P<0.05) , also the expressions of ALP, Osterix, Runx2 and RANKL were increased (P<0.05) . Compared with 10 mgF(-)/kg and 20 mgF(-)/kg groups, there were no obvious dental fluorosis symptoms in 2 mg/kg RAPA+10 mgF(-)/kg group and 2 mg/kg RAPA+20 mgF(-)/kg group, and serum ALP, BGP and OPG levels were significantly increased (P<0.05) . TRACP and RANKL contents were significantly decreased (P<0.05) . BMD, Modulus of elasticity, Stiffness, Maximum stress and Maximum load were significantly increased (P<0.05) . The levels of p-mTOR, p62 and RANKL in bone tissues were decreased (P<0.05) , and the expressions of LC3-II, LC3-II/LC3-I, ALP, Osterix and Runx2 were increased (P<0.05) . Conclusion: RAPA may activate autophagy by inhibiting mTOR phosphorylation, and inhibit bone resorption while promoting bone formation, thus alleviating early osteoporosis in skeletal fluorosis rats.

[Establishment of three-dimensional measurement methods of nasolabial soft tissue for patients with maxillary protrusion].

OBJECTIVE: To establish a series of three-dimensional measurement methods of nasolabial soft tissue for maxillary protrusion patients by using 3dMD camera, and to evaluate preoperative and postoperative changes of the nasolabial soft tissue. METHODS: Three-dimensional facial photos of 30 female patients with maxillary protrusion [average age, (27.33±2.54) years] were taken by 3dMD camera preoperatively and at the end of postoperative 6 months or more. Then, 3dMD patient software was used to locate the selected landmarks at nasolabial region on the three-dimensional photos. Ten measurements, including soft tissue line distance, angle, curve distance and postoperative three-dimensional volume changes were measured twice with one week interval by 3 investigators, respectively. A standard consistency test calculated by the correlation coefficients (ICC) was performed between two sets of data (including all of the 10 measurements) for each investigator and among the three investigators to verify the repeatability. RESULTS: The average maxillary incisor retraction distance of the 30 subjects was (5.13±0.99) mm, and the average follow-up time was (11.07±5.11) months. The standard consistency test was performed between the two sets of data for each investigator, and the correlation coefficients (ICC) of the 10 measurements were all over 0.8 for each investigator (P>0.05). The standard consistency test was performed among the three surveyors, with the result that the ICC of the width of the bilateral inner canthus, the height of the nose, the height of nasal tip, nasolabial angle, philtrum length, the curve height of upper vermilion and the height of upper lip were greater than 0.8 (P>0.05), and the ICC of the distance between SbalSbal, length of nasal dorsum and three-dimensional volume change of upper lip were 0.680, 0.627 and 0.528, respectively (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: 3dMD camera and 3dMD patient software can be used to measure and analyze the three-dimensional morphology of the nasolabial soft tissue for patients with maxillary protrusion preoperatively and postoperatively, and it is relatively accurate and reliable. However, the repeatability of three-dimensional positioning of the nasal tip point and the Sbal is slightly worse resulting in the lower value of the ICC of the distance between SbalSbal and length of nasal dorsum, as well as the upper lip three-dimensional volume change after the operation.

Angiopoietin-like 4 promotes osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration and stimulates osteoclastogenesis.

BACKGROUND: Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer in children and young adults. It is highly aggressive and patients that present with metastasis have a poor prognosis. Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) drives the progression and metastasis of many solid tumours, but has not been described in osteosarcoma tissue. ANGPTL4 also enhances osteoclast activity, which is required for osteosarcoma growth in bone. We therefore investigated the expression and function of ANGPTL4 in human osteosarcoma tissue and cell lines. METHODS: Expression of ANGPTL4 in osteosarcoma tissue microarrays was determined by immunohistochemistry. Hypoxic secretion of ANGPTL4 was tested by ELISA and Western blot. Regulation of ANGPTL4 by hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) was investigated using isoform specific HIF siRNA (HIF-1α, HIF-2α). Effects of ANGPTL4 on cell proliferation, migration (scratch wound assay), colony formation and osteoblastogenesis were assessed using exogenous ANGPTL4 or cells stably transfected with ANGPTL4. Osteoclastogenic differentiation of CD14+ monocytes was assessed by staining for tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), bone resorption was assessed by lacunar resorption of dentine. RESULTS: ANGPTL4 was immunohistochemically detectable in 76/109 cases. ANGPTL4 was induced by hypoxia in 6 osteosarcoma cell lines, under the control of the HIF-1α transcription factor. MG-63 cells transfected with an ANGPTL4 over-expression plasmid exhibited increased proliferation and migration capacity and promoted osteoclastogenesis and osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. Individually the full-length form of ANGPTL4 could increase MG-63 cell proliferation, whereas N-terminal ANGPTL4 mediated the other pro-tumourigenic phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS: This study describes a role(s) for ANGPTL4 in osteosarcoma and identifies ANGPTL4 as a treatment target that could potentially reduce tumour progression, inhibit angiogenesis, reduce bone destruction and prevent metastatic events.

[Effect of oral appliance on reproductive system of the male New-Zealand rabbit with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome].

Objective: To observe the effect of the mandible advanced device on the reproductive system of the male New-Zealand rabbit with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Methods: Thirty male New-Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into three groups (with 10 rabbits in each group): sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome group (group OSAHS), mandible advanced device group (group MAD) and control group. On the basis of the OSAHS animal model, mandible advanced devices were used for group MAD animals. After intervention for 8 weeks (sleeping by dorsal position, 4-6 hours/d), the samples were gained from the animals under general anesthesia and observed under the transmission electron microscope (TEM) and the AX-80 universal microscope. The cauda epididymis was obtained to be observed the number, viability, motility and abnormal rate of spermatozoa. Results: Compared with the control group, the upper airway space, the saturation of blood oxygen, partial pressure of oxygen, pH, the number, viability rate and motility rate of spermatozoa in cauda epididymis of the group OSAHS were significant decreased (all P<0.05), and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide and the rate of teratospermia was significant increased (both P<0.05). But compared with the control group, these indexes mentioned above in the group MAD showed no statistical significance (all P>0.05). TEM and the light microscope showed that the status of spermatogenic cell, seminiferous tubule and spermatogenic epithelium was improved in the group MAD. The correlation analysis showed that the saturation of blood oxygen had a negative correlation with the rate of teratospermia (r=-0.614, P<0.001). Conclusion: The damage of spermatogenic cells and the decrease of the sperm quality caused by OSAHS in New-Zealand rabbits could be improved by the mandible advanced devices.

In vitro investigation of nanohydroxyapatite/poly(L-lactic acid) spindle composites used for bone tissue engineering.

Calcium phosphate ceramics such as synthetic hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphate are widely used in the clinic, but they stimulate less bone regeneration. In this paper, nano-hydroxyapatite/poly(L-lactic acid) (nano-HA/PLLA) spindle composites with good mechanical performance were fabricated by a modified in situ precipitation method. The HA part of composite, distributing homogenously in PLLA matrix, is spindle shape with size of 10-30 nm in diameter and 60-100 nm in length. The molar ratio of Ca/P in the synthesized nano-HA spindles was deduced as 1.52 from the EDS spectra, which is close to the stoichiometric composition of HA (Ca/P & 1.67). The compress strength is up to 150 MPa when the HA content increase to 20 %. The in vitro tests indicate that HA/PLLA bio-composites have good biodegradability and bioactivity when immersed in simulated body fluid solutions. All the results suggested that HA/PLLA nano-biocomposites are appropriate to be applied as bone substitute in bone tissue engineering.

Lack of association between the vitamin D receptor polymorphism rs2228570 and chronic periodontitis in a Han Chinese population.

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is involved in the immune response and bone metabolism, both of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic periodontitis (CP). In this study, we investigated the association between the VDR single nucleotide polymorphism rs2228570 and CP susceptibility in a Han Chinese population consisting of 440 moderate or severe CP patients and 324 controls. Genomic DNA was extracted from buccal epithelial cells and genotyped using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight-mass spectrometry. No significant difference in allelic or genotypic frequencies distributions for rs2228570 was found between CP patients and controls. In conclusion, we found no statistically significant association between rs2228570 and CP in our population.

Guided bone regeneration using acellular bovine pericardium in a rabbit mandibular model: in-vitro and in-vivo studies.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility of acellular bovine pericardium (BP) for guided bone regeneration (GBR) in vitro and in vivo. The success of GBR relies on the fact that various cellular components possess different migration rates into the defect site and that a barrier membrane plays a significant role in these processes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: BP membrane was isolated and decellularized using an enzymatic method. The microarchitecture, mechanical properties, cytotoxicity and cell chemotaxis properties of the acellular BP were evaluated in vitro, and the in-vivo efficacy of the acellular BP was also investigated in a rabbit mandibular model. RESULTS: The acellular BP membrane possessed an interconnected fibrous structure. Glutaraldehyde (GA) treatment was efficient for enhancement of the mechanical properties of the acellular BP bur and resulted in negligible cytotoxicity. After 16 wk, standardized osseous defects created in the rabbit mandible, and covered with acellular BP, were associated with an enhanced deposition of mineralized tissue when compared with defects left to spontaneous healing. CONCLUSION: GA-treated acellular BP is promising as a barrier membrane for GBR for further in-vivo and clinical studies.

[Comparison of the impact of orthodontic treatment on pulp volume in adolescents and adults].

Objective: To compare the impact of orthodontic treatment on pulp volume in adolescents and adults. Methods: Cone-beam CT data of 62 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment at the Department of Orthodontics, Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, from January 2019 to March 2022 were collected. Patients were divided into two age groups (31 patients in each group): adolescent group (aged 13-17, 17 males and 14 females) and adult group (aged 21-25, 12 males and 19 females). Pre-and post-treatment reconstructions of the pulp and dental tissues of upper first molars (UM1) and lower central incisors (L1) were performed. Measurements included pulp volume for UM1 (UM1 P) and L1 (L1 P), pulp chamber volume (UM1 PC) and root canal volume (UM1 RC) for UM1, root length for L1 (L1 RL), and mesiobuccal root length for UM1 (UM1 RL), as well as chamber heights at specific landmarks [the lengths from the central fossa fusion site to the roof of the pulp chamber (H1), the floor of the pulp chamber (H2), the nearest point of root divergence as well as crown-root bifurcation (H3), the farthest point of root divergence (H4), and the pulp chamber height (H5)] in UM1. Changes in these indices were calculated and analyzed using paired and independent sample t-tests for within-group and between-group differences, respectively. Pearson correlation was used to assess potential associations among H5, root length, and pulp volume changes. Results: Before and after orthodontic treatment, no significant difference was observed in the adult group for L1 P (t=-0.03, P=0.975), while significant differences were noted for UM1 P, UM1 PC, and UM1 RC (t=9.98, P<0.001; t=9.04, P<0.001; t=6.69, P<0.001). In the adolescent group, significant differences were found for both L1 P and UM1 P (t=2.25, P=0.029; t=6.30, P<0.001). After orthodontic treatment, the absolute value changes of UM1 P, UM1 PC, and L1 P in the adolescent group were (19.75±9.58), (15.07±7.65) and (1.89±6.29) mm3, respectively, and in the adult group were (13.33±9.41), (9.16±7.05) and (0.02±4.66) mm3, respectively (t=3.77, P<0.001; t=4.48, P<0.001; t=2.34, P=0.048). There was no significant absolute difference in the amount of UM1 RC between the two groups after orthodontic treatment (t=0.86, P=0.391). Before and after orthodontic treatment, the absolute value changes of L1 RL, H1 and H5 in the adolescent group were (0.54±0.41), (0.38±0.27) and (0.71±0.33) mm, respectively, and the absolute value changes in the adult group were (0.78±0.62), (0.26±0.20) and (0.57±0.28) mm, respectively (t=-2.43, P=0.017; t=2.96, P=0.004; t=2.57, P=0.011). Whereas no significant differences were observed for UM1 RL, H2, H3, and H4 (t=-0.85, P=0.400; t=0.43, P=0.669; t=-0.50, P=0.619; t=1.46, P=0.148). Additionally, significant correlations were found between changes in H5 and UM1 RL with UM1 P (r=0.35, P<0.001; r=0.19, P=0.030), but not between Changes in L1 RL and L1 P (r=0.11, P>0.05). Conclusions: The effect of orthodontic treatment on pulp volume in adolescents and adults were different.

[Properties of gelatin-polyethylene glycol hydrogel loaded with silver nanoparticle Chlorella and its effects on healing of infected full-thickness skin defect wounds in mice].

Objective: To explore the properties of gelatin-polyethylene glycol hydrogel loaded with silver nanoparticle (AgNP) Chlorella (hereinafter referred to as the composite hydrogel) and its effects on healing of infected full-thickness skin defect wounds in mice. Methods: The research was an experimental research. The simple gelatin-polyethylene glycol hydrogel (hereinafter referred to as the simple hydrogel) and the composite hydrogel were prepared, and the appearance and injectability of the two hydrogels were observed at 55 and 37 ℃, and under the irradiation of 808 nm near-infrared light, respectively. An electronic universal testing machine was employed to assess the tensile and compressive stress-strain properties of both types of hydrogels at room temperature. Additionally, the cyclic compressive stress-strain properties of the composite hydrogel were examined at 80% of the maximum compressive stress. Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli solution was added to phosphate buffer solution (PBS), simple hydrogel, and composite hydrogel, respectively. The part of composite hydrogel containing Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli solution was irradiated with near-infrared light for 5 minutes. After each sample was incubated for 6 h, the dilution plating method was used to detect and calculate the mortality rates of the two bacteria at 24 h of culture (n=5). The discarded foreskin tissue was taken from a 6-year-old healthy boy admitted to the Department of Urology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University for circumcision. Primary human fibroblasts (HFbs) were isolated using the enzyme extraction method, routinely cultured to the 3rd to 6th passages for subsequent cellular experiments. Composite hydrogel extracts with final mass concentrations of 100.0, 50.0, 25.0, 12.5, and 0 mg/mL were respectively prepared and used to culture HFbs, and the cell proliferation after 24 h of culture was detected using a cell counting kit 8 (n=3). A total of twenty 6-8 weeks old C57BL/6J female mice were utilized, and a full-thickness skin defect was surgically created on the back of each mouse. The wounds were infected with Staphylococcus aureus solution. The infected mice were divided into blank control group, simple hydrogel group, composite hydrogel group, and combined treatment group according to the random number table, and the wounds were treated with PBS, simple hydrogel, composite hydrogel, and composite hydrogel+light irradiation (under the irradiation of 808 nm near-infrared light for 5 min), respectively, with 5 mice in each group. On post injury day (PID) 0 (immediately after the first wound treatment), 3, 7, and 14, an overall assessment of wound exudation and healing were conducted, and the wound healing rates on PID 7 and 14 were calculated (n=5). On PID 14, hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to observe histopathological changes in the mouse wound. Results: Both simple hydrogel and composite hydrogel were in a solution state at 55 ℃ and transition to a gel state when cooling to 37 ℃. After the two hydrogels were irradiated by near-infrared light, only the composite hydrogel reheated up and returned to the solution state again with injectability. The maximum tensile stress of the composite hydrogel was up to 301.42 kPa, with a corresponding strain of 87.19%; the maximum compressive stress was up to 413.79 kPa, with a corresponding strain of 91.67%, which was similar to the tensile and compressive properties of the simple hydrogel. After 10 compression cycles, the maximum compressive stress of the composite hydrogel still reached 84.1% of the first compressive stress. After 24 h of culture, the mortality rate of Staphylococcus aureus treated with simple hydrogel was significantly higher than that treated with PBS (P<0.05); the mortality rates of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus treated with composite hydrogel alone were significantly higher than those treated with simple hydrogel (P<0.05); the mortality rates of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus treated with composite hydrogel+light irradiation were significantly higher than those treated with composite hydrogel alone (P<0.05). After 24 h of culture, compared with that cultured in composite hydrogel immersion solution with final mass concentration of 0 mg/mL, the proliferation activity of HFbs cultured in composite hydrogel immersion solution with final mass concentrations of 25.0 and 50.0 mg/mL was significantly enhanced (P<0.05), while the proliferation activity of HFbs cultured in composite hydrogel immersion solution with final mass concentration of 100 mg/mL was significantly decreased (P<0.05). On PID 0 and 3, more purulent secretions were seen in the wounds of mice in blank control group and simple hydrogel group, while only a small amount of exudate was observed in the wounds of mice in composite hydrogel group, and no obvious infection was observed in the wounds of mice in combined treatment group. On PID 7 and 14, the wound healing rates of mice in simple hydrogel group were significantly higher than those in blank control group (P<0.05); the wound healing rates of mice in composite hydrogel group were significantly higher than those in simple hydrogel group (P<0.05); the wound healing rates in combined treatment group were significantly higher than those in composite hydrogel group (P<0.05). On PID 14, the wounds of mice in blank control group exhibited a high infiltration of inflammatory cells with no new epithelial layer observed; the wounds of mice in simple hydrogel group displayed a short length of newly formed epithelium with a small amount of inflammatory cells; the wounds of mice in composite hydrogel group exhibited continuous formation of new epithelium and a large amount of immature granulation tissue; the wounds of mice in combined treatment group showed continuous epithelialization with less immature granulation tissue. Conclusions: The prepared composite hydrogel exhibits excellent thermosensitivity, photothermal properties, and injectability, as well as excellent mechanical properties, antibacterial properties, and biocompatibility, and can promote the healing of infected full-thickness skin defect wounds in mice.

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG Improves Periodontal Bone Repair via Gut-Blood Axis in Hyperlipidemia.

Periodontal bone regeneration remains a clinical challenge, and hyperlipidemia can aggravate alveolar bone resorption. Probiotics have recently been reported to improve bone mass. We aimed to determine the role of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) in periodontal bone regeneration improvement within the context of periodontitis with hyperlipidemia. A Sprague Dawley rat model for periodontitis, hyperlipidemia, and periodontal fenestration defect was constructed (n = 36) and administered LGG gavage for 6 wk (the rats were subsequently sacrificed). Fecal microbiota from donor rats 3 wk after LGG gavage was transplanted into recipient rats to evaluate the role of LGG-modulated gut microbiota in periodontal bone regeneration. Regenerated bone mass was detected using micro-computerized tomography and hematoxylin and eosin stain. Gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. Serum metabolites were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (6 wk after LGG gavage). The pro-osteogenic effects of screened serum metabolite were verified in vitro on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs). We found that the bone mineral density, bone volume (BV), trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), and trabecular thickness of the regenerated periodontal bone increased after LGG gavage (P < 0.05) but had little effect on oral flora. After LGG gavage, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Collinsella in the gut of donors were significantly changed, and these differences were maintained in recipients, who also showed increased trabecular thickness of the regenerated periodontal bone (P < 0.05). These key genera were correlated with BV/TV and BV (P < 0.05). In addition, LGG gavage significantly regulated bone-related blood metabolites, of which selenomethionine promoted BMMSC osteogenesis. Notably, selenomethionine was associated with key gut genera (P < 0.05). Collectively, LGG improved periodontal bone regeneration in the context of periodontitis with hyperlipidemia by modulating gut microbiota and increasing pro-osteogenic metabolites in the blood. These results reveal new insights into the use of probiotics to promote periodontal bone regeneration via the gut-blood-bone axis.

[Effect of preemptive analgesia with ibuprofen on postoperative pain after mandibular third molar extraction: a randomized controlled trial].

Objective: To evaluate the impact of preemptive analgesia with ibuprofen on postoperative pain following the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars in a Chinese population, aiming to provide a clinical reference for its application. Methods: This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group trial was conducted from April 2022 to October 2023 at the Capital Medical University School of Stomatology (40 cases), Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University (22 cases), and Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University (20 cases). It included 82 patients with impacted mandibular third molars, with 41 in the ibuprofen group and 41 in the control group. Participants in the ibuprofen group received 300 mg of sustained-release ibuprofen capsules orally 15 min before surgery, while the control group received a placebo. Both groups were instructed to take sustained-release ibuprofen capsules as planned for 3 days post-surgery. Pain intensity was measured using the numerical rating scale at 30 min, 4 h, 6 h, 8 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h after surgery, and the use of additional analgesic medication was recorded during days 4 to 6 postoperatively. Results: All 82 patients completed the study according to the protocol. No adverse events such as nausea, vomiting, or allergies were reported in either group during the trial. The ibuprofen group exhibited significantly lower pain scores at 4 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 4.0 (3.0, 5.0)] (Z=-3.73, P<0.001), 6 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 5.0(2.5, 6.0)] (Z=-3.38, P<0.001), and 8 h [2.0 (1.0, 4.0) vs. 5.0 (2.0, 6.0)] (Z=-2.11, P=0.035) postoperatively compared to the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in pain scores between the groups at 30 min, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h postoperatively (P>0.05). Additionally, 11 out of 41 patients (26.8%) in the ibuprofen group and 23 out of 41 patients (56.1%) in the control group required extra analgesic medication between days 4 and 6 post-surgery, with the ibuprofen group taking significantly fewer additional pills [0.0 (0.0, 1.0) vs. 1.0 (0.0, 3.0)] (Z=-2.81, P=0.005). Conclusions: A pain management regimen involving 300 mg of oral sustained-release ibuprofen capsules administered 15 minutes before surgery and continued for 3 d postoperatively effectively reduces pain levels and the total amount of analgesic medication used after the extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. Considering its efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness, ibuprofen is recommended as a first-line drug for perioperative pain management, enhancing patient comfort during diagnosis and treatment in a feasible manner.

[Electromyographic signals and the starting threshold voltage of orbicularis oris muscle in healthy rhesus monkeys].

Objective: To investigate the characteristics of electromyography (EMG) signals and the starting threshold voltages of the orbicularis oris muscles (OOM) in healthy rhesus monkeys under different muscle movement conditions. Methods: The EMG signals and the starting threshold voltages at different time points in 4 healthy rhesus monkeys were acquired and recorded with EMG device and evoked potentiometer. The voltage amplitude variation of EMG signals was analyzed, and the voltage amplitude range of EMG signals at the beginning of OOM contraction was established. The data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA. Results: The EMG of OOM in healthy monkeys in the quiet, natural and continuous mouth-closed state was linear and relatively stable, and the absolute value fluctuated between 15 and 50 µV. The EMG waveform increased rapidly during the natural lip contraction movement, and its amplitude fluctuated greatly, with the highest absolute value of the peak value reaching hundreds of microvolts. The amplitude of EMG induced by continuous mouth closure was more than thousands of microvolts. There was no significant difference in EMG amplitudes of OOM in the healthy rhesus monkey under quiet and continuous lip closure at different time points (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in threshold voltages in the state of natural lip contraction of bilateral OOM at different time points (average range: 57.17-57.47 µV) in the healthy rhesus monkeys (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in threshold voltages of OOM induced by bilateral OOM at different time points(average range: 55.38-55.99 µV) in the healthy rhesus monkeys(P>0.05). There were significant differences in the absolute values of EMG amplitudes of OOM between the three lip movement modes: (30.67±8.72) µV in quiet and natural continuous lip closure (475.12±54.72) µV in natural lip contraction, and (921.22±312.79) µV in the induced persistent lip closure, with t values of -8.48, -9.35 and -5.01 respectively, all P<0.001. Conclusions: The EMG signals of OOM show different characteristics under different muscle movement conditions, which can be used as a basis for computer to judge and recognize the movement conditions of OOM. The upper limits of the EMG threshold voltage values of OOM under different motion states are 55-60 µV.

Tissue Distribution of mtDNA Copy Number And Expression Pattern of An mtDNA-Related Gene in Three Teleost Fish Species.

Teleosts are the most speciose vertebrates and have diverse swimming performance. Based on swimming duration and speed, teleosts are broadly divided into sustained, prolonged, and burst swimming fish. Teleosts with different swimming performance have different energy requirements. In addition, energy requirement also varies among different tissues. As mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number is correlated with ATP production, we speculated that mtDNA copy number varies among fish with different swimming performance, as well as among different tissues. In other species, mtDNA copy number is regulated by tfam (mitochondrial transcription factor A) through mtDNA compaction and mito-genome replication initiation. In order to clarify the tissue distribution of mtDNA copy number and expression pattern of tfam in teleosts with disparate swimming performance, we selected representative fish with sustained swimming (Pseudocaranx dentex), prolonged swimming (Takifugu rubripes), and burst swimming (Paralichthys olivaceus). We measured mtDNA copy number and tfam gene expression in 10 tissues of these three fish. The results showed the mtDNA content pattern of various tissues was broadly consistent among three fish, and high-energy demanding tissues contain higher mtDNA copy number. Slow-twitch muscles with higher oxidative metabolism possess a greater content of mtDNA than fast-twitch muscles. In addition, relatively higher mtDNA content in fast-twitch muscle of P. olivaceus compared to the other two fish could be an adaptation to their frequent burst swimming demands. And the higher mtDNA copy number in heart of P. dentex could meet their oxygen transport demands of long-distance swimming. However, tfam expression was not significantly correlated with mtDNA copy number in these teleosts, suggesting tfam may be not the only factor regulating mtDNA content among various tissues. This study can lay a foundation for studying the role of mtDNA in the adaptive evolution of various swimming ability in teleost fish.

PRRX1+MSCs Enhance Mandibular Regeneration during Distraction Osteogenesis.

Bone defect (BD) caused by trauma, infection, congenital defects, or neoplasia is a major cause of physical limitation. Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a highly effective procedure for bone regeneration, while the concrete mechanism remains unknown. In this study, canine DO and BD models of the mandible were established. The results of micro-computed tomography and histological staining revealed that DO led to an increased mineralized volume fraction and robust new bone formation; in contrast, BD demonstrated incomplete bone union. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from DO and BD calluses were isolated and identified. Compared with BD-MSCs, DO-MSCs were found to have a stronger osteogenic capability. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis was further performed to comprehensively define cell differences between mandibular DO and BD calluses. Twenty-six clusters of cells representing 6 major cell populations were identified, including paired related homeobox 1-expressing MSCs (PRRX1+MSCs), endothelial cells (ECs), T cells, B cells, neutrophils, and macrophages. Interestingly, 2 subpopulations in PRRX1+MSCs in the DO group were found to express the marker of neural crest cells (NCCs) and were associated with the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The immunofluorescence assay was performed to further corroborate these results in vivo and in vitro, experimentally validating that continuous distraction maintained the PRRX1+MSCs in an embryonic-like state. Finally, we used CRISPR/Cas9 to knock out (KO) PRRX1 in the context of DO, which significantly blunted the capability of jawbone regeneration, resulting in a diminished NCC-like program and reduction of new bone volume. In addition, the ability of osteogenesis, cell migration, and proliferation in cultured PRRX1KO MSCs was inhibited. Taken together, this study provides a novel, comprehensive atlas of the cell fates in the context of DO regeneration, and PRRX1+MSCs act essential roles.

[Research progress in biological characteristics and influencing factors of jaw bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell].

Jaw bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (JBMMSC), which exists in the maxilla and mandible, is adult stem cells with strong proliferation ability and multiple differentiation potential. Pathological, physicochemical and biological factors can affect the biological characteristics of JBMMSC. Compared with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells derived from long bone, the biological characteristics of JBMMSC are site-specific because of the different sources of tissue and osteogenesis of bone. The same influencing factors have different effects on these two kinds of cells. Besides, JBMMSC also has the advantages of easier access, less trauma and lower immunogenicity. It has broad application prospects in craniomaxillofacial defect repair, periodontal tissue regeneration, and improving the success rate after implantation and so on. It has attracted wide attention in the basic and clinical studies. However, the regulation mechanism of its proliferation and differentiation is not clear, which affects its application as seed cell. Therefore, this paper reviews the biological characteristics influencing factors of JBMMSC and application progress in clinical and basic research, aiming to provide reference for further research and clinical application.

Fluoride induced down-regulation of IKBKG Gene expression inhibits hepatocytes senescence.

BACKGROUND: Accumulating evidences have confirmed that liver is one of the more severely damaged organs during chronic fluorosis. However, the detail mechanism is unclear to data. At present, the objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between down-regulation of IKBKG gene expression and hepatocyte senescence induced by sodium fluoride (NaF). METHODS: Chronic fluorosis rats and NaF-exposure human liver L02 cells were reproduced the model of hepatocyte senescence in vivo and in vitro. The mRNA and protein levels of p16, p21 and IKBKG, the IL-8 level were determined. The role of IKBKG in fluoride-induced senescence of hepatocytes was explored by knock down in hepatocytes in vivo and in vitro. RESULTS: The number of senescence-positive cells in rat liver tissues was increased as well as the level of IL-8 and the expression levels of p16, p21 and IKBKG in fluoride exposure to rat depending on the fluoride concentration. The similar results were obtained in NaF treated liver L02 cells, and the number of cells that stagnated in the G2 phase increased significantly. Further, our results confirmed that decreasing the expression of IKBKG in hepatocytes could reduce fluoride-induced hepatocyte senescence and the changes of senescence-related indicators both in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSION: These results indicated that the elevated expression of IKBKG was positive relation with the fluoride-induced senescence in hepatocytes, suggesting the hepatocyte senescence might have a special relationship with fluoride-caused liver damage. Because of the present results limitation, the mechanism of fluoride induced senescence in hepatocytes should be concentrated in the future in detail, especially the novel targets for fluoride induced liver injury.