Dynamic Morphological Growth Trajectory of Crouzon Population: A Geometric Morphometric Analysis.

This study is to visualize the morphological growth trajectory of the Crouzon population and provide a more comprehensive and perceptual understanding of pathologic aggregation in terms of maxillofacial and soft tissue surfaces. Twenty-two patients with Crouzon syndrome were included in this retrospective surgery. Preoperative computed tomography was segmented into maxillofacial and soft tissue surface morphologies. Fifty-two anatomical landmarks and a standardized template were used to extract the morphological phenotypes and transform them into spatial coordinates. Geometric morphometrics (GM) were applied to visualize the growth trajectory and estimate the morphological variation of the Crouzon population. Cephalometric analysis was conducted to validate the growth trajectory in a clinical aspect. It was found that both maxillofacial and soft tissue surface morphologies were strongly covaried with age. Morphological development of the Crouzon population was characterized by (1) maxillary retrusion and clockwise rotation, (2) mandibular counterclockwise rotation, (3) facial width narrowing and aggregated concave face, and (4) sunken nasal bone. Pathologic maxillary retrusion continuously existed from infancy to adulthood, and rapid aggravation took place at 3 to 6 years old. In conclusion, this study is the first to visualize the dynamic growth trajectories on both maxillofacial and soft tissue surface morphologies. More attention and monitoring of breathing, snoring, intelligence, and global development should be cast on Crouzon patients between 3 and 6 years old in family care. If any functional abnormalities occur during this period, professional consultations and evaluations should be conducted timely to avoid pathologic aggravation. Consistency between GMs and cephalometry validates the reliability of GM potentials in the clinical field, allowing a promising and revolutionary methodology for dynamically and qualitatively analyzing pathologic changes in some rare congenital diseases.

Correlation analysis of airway-facial phenotype in Crouzon syndrome by geometric morphometrics: A promising method for non-radiation airway evaluation.

AIM: This study aimed to verify the correlation of the airway-facial phenotype and visualize the morphological variation in Crouzon syndrome patients. Additionally, to develop a non-radiation methodology for airway assessments. METHOD: In this study, 22 patients diagnosed with Crouzon syndrome (Age: 7.80 ± 5.63 years; Gender distribution: 11 females and 11 males) were analysed. The soft tissue surface and airway were three-dimensionally reconstructed, and the entire facial phenotype was topologized and converted into spatial coordinates. Geometric morphometrics was employed to verify the correlation and visualize dynamic phenotypic variation associated with airway volume. A total of 276 linear variables were automatically derived from 24 anatomical landmarks, and principal component analysis (PCA) identified the 20 most significant parameters for airway evaluation. Correlation analyses between parameters and airway volume were performed. Then, patients were classified into three groups based on airway volume, and the differences among the groups were compared for evaluating the differentiating effectiveness of parameters. RESULTS: The facial phenotype was strongly correlated with the airway (coefficient: 0.758). Morphological variation was characterized by (i) mandibular protrusion and anticlockwise rotation; (ii) midface retrusion; (iii) supraorbital frontward and (iv) lengthening of the facial height. All the anthropometric parameters were strongly associated with the airway, and the differences among the groups were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: This study confirmed the strong correlation between facial phenotype and airway parameters in Crouzon syndrome patients. Despite the development of the airway, pathological midface retrusion was still aggravated, suggesting that surgical intervention was inevitable. Three-dimensional facial anthropometry has potential as a non-radiation examination for airway evaluation.

Development of a chitosan and whey protein-based, biodegradable, colorimetric/fluorescent dual-channel monitoring label for real-time sensing of shrimp freshness.

To address the growing and urgent need for quick and accurate food spoilage detection systems as well as to reduce food resource wastage, recent research has focused on intelligent bio-labels using pH indicators. Accordingly, we developed a dual-channel intelligent label with colorimetric and fluorescent capabilities using black lycium anthocyanin (BLA) and 9,10-bis(2,2-dipyridylvinyl) anthracene (DSA4P) as colorimetric and fluorescent indicators within a composite film consisting of chitosan (Cs), whey protein (Wp), and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). The addition of STPP as a cross-linking agent significantly improved the hydrophobicity, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of the Cs/Wp composite films under low pH conditions. After the incorporation of BLA and DSA4P, the resulting dual-channel intelligent label (Cs/Wp/STPP/BLA/DSA4P) exhibited superior hydrophobicity, as indicated by a water contact angle of 78.03°. Additionally, it displayed enhanced mechanical properties, with a tensile strength (TS) of 3.04 MPa and an elongation at break (EAB) of 81.07 %, while maintaining a low transmittance of 28.48 % at 600 nm. After 25 days of burial in soil, the label was significantly degraded, which showcases its eco-friendly nature. Moreover, the label could visually detect color changes indicating volatile ammonia concentrations (25-25,000 ppm). The color of the label in daylight gradually shifted from brick-red to light-red, brownish-yellow, and finally light-green as the ammonia concentration increased. Correspondingly, its fluorescence transitioned from no fluorescence to green fluorescence with increasing ammonia concentration, gradually intensifying under 365-nm UV light. Furthermore, the label effectively monitored the freshness of shrimp stored at temperatures of 4 °C, 25 °C, and - 18 °C. Thus, the label developed in this study exhibits significant potential for enhancing food safety monitoring.

How Does Social Media Correlate With Clinical Appointments: A Quantitative Analysis.

Social media has become an important part of plastic surgeons' practices. Is it true that the more followers, the more efficient it is to the plastic surgeon's branding? This study is to verify the quantitative correlation between social media and clinical appointments and to optimize its utilization. One hundred and five plastic surgeons were divided into 3 groups according to titles. WEIBO served as a targeted platform and descriptive data, including numbers of followers and clinic appointments were collected for analysis. The promotive effect was quantified as and correlation analysis was conducted to quantify the relationship between followers and outpatient appointments. From this research, it was found that 62% of participants were social media users, while 38% were not. No statistical significance was found between them by comparing the number of clinic appointments. For surgeons with social media, a positive correlation was proven between followers and clinic appointments, whose Pearson's correlation was 0.266 (attending: 0.557, associate consultant: 0.315, consultant: 0.060). Meanwhile, the conversion rates in this study were 22.49±44.67% (attending), 13.10±24.57% (associate consultant), and 18.88±36.05% (consultant). Outpatient consultations of senior surgeons without social media (2652±14492) were significantly higher than young surgeons with social media (1800±1718, P <0.05). The regression equation was Clinical Appointments=ln (Followers)×316.906-992.588 ( R2 =0.270, P =0.023). In conclusion, this study proved that social media positively influenced clinic appointments but the traditional personal brandings like reputations, academic pedigree, and word of mouth still played an indispensable role in career development. Young surgeons benefited most from social media. The promotive effect of social media would reach its saturation when the followers were up to ∼50,000.

Research progress on ginger polysaccharides: extraction, purification and structure-bioactivity relationship.

Ginger is a widespread source of herbal medicine and traditional spices. Among its various bioactive components, ginger polysaccharides (GPs) have attracted the attention of researchers worldwide because of their significant bioactivity. Recent studies have demonstrated the antioxidant, antitumour, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hypoglycaemic, cough suppressant and thrombotic anticoagulant effects of GPs. However, the structure-bioactivity relationship of GPs has yet to be comprehensively investigated. This review aims to explore all the current published studies on GPs. It further examines various aspects, including the extraction and purification methods, structure, bioactivity, application and structure-bioactivity relationship of GPs. Thus, this review intends to provide a reference for future GP-related research and development.

Three-Dimensional Digital Technology: A Powerful Assistant for the Reconstruction of Complex Craniofacial Deformities.

Three-dimensional digital technology has been widely applied in craniofacial surgeries, particularly in conventional procedures such as facial contouring and orthognathic surgery. To some extent, the process has already been standardized. As to reconstruction surgeries of complex craniofacial deformity, however, surgical plans need to be patient-specific. Traditionally, individualized surgical treatment largely relies on the surgeon's clinical experience. The application of digital technology mainly focuses on preoperative planning and postoperative evaluation of surgical outcomes rather than intraoperative patient-specific implants or osteotomy guides. For patients with complex craniofacial deformities, requirements for accurate 3-dimensional digital technology can be much higher. This study presents a favorable surgical reconstruction of the severe craniofacial deformity using 3-dimensional digital technology, providing references for craniofacial surgeons, which could be beneficial to clinical practice and treatment efficacy.

Escherichia coli Promotes Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transformation of Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Exacerbates Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Via Its Flagellin.

BACKGROUND＆AIMS: Gut bacteria translocate into the liver through a disrupted gut vascular barrier, which is an early and common event in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are directly exposed to translocated gut microbiota in portal vein blood. Escherichia coli, a commensal gut bacterium with flagella, is markedly enriched in the gut microbiota of patients with NAFLD. However, the impact of E coli on NAFLD progression and its underlying mechanisms remains unclear. METHODS: The abundance of E coli was analyzed by using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing in a cohort of patients with NAFLD and healthy controls. The role of E coli was assessed in NAFLD mice after 16 weeks of administration, and the features of NAFLD were evaluated. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in LSECs induced by E coli was analyzed through Western blotting and immunofluorescence. RESULTS: The abundance of gut Enterobacteriaceae increased in NAFLD patients with severe fat deposition and fibrosis. Importantly, translocated E coli in the liver aggravated hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in NAFLD mice. Mechanistically, E coli induced EndMT in LSECs through the TLR5/MYD88/TWIST1 pathway during NAFLD development. The toll-like receptor 5 inhibitor attenuated E coli-induced EndMT in LSECs and liver injury in NAFLD mice. Interestingly, flagellin-deficient E coli promoted less EndMT in LSECs and liver injury in NAFLD mice. CONCLUSIONS: E coli promoted the development of NAFLD and promoted EndMT in LSECs through toll-like receptor 5/nuclear factor kappa B-dependent activation of TWIST1 mediated by flagellin. Therapeutic interventions targeting E coli and/or flagellin may represent a promising candidate for NAFLD treatment.

Intelligent biogenic pH-sensitive and amine-responsive color-changing label for real-time monitoring of shrimp freshness.

BACKGROUND: This study developed an intelligent, pH-sensitive and amine-responsive colorimetric label based on chitosan, whey protein and thymol blue by controlling the pH value of the film-forming solution. The obtained label was used to monitor shrimp freshness in real time. The results of this study offer a new approach for developing highly intelligent biogenic labels for freshness monitoring during seafood preservation and processing. RESULTS: The pH 2.0 chitosan-whey protein-thymol blue (CWT-pH 2.0) label exhibited remarkable properties, including the highest tensile strength (5.90 MPa), excellent thermal stability, low water solubility (27.80%) and highly sensitive color responsiveness. The characterization techniques of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the effective immobilization of thymol blue within the film-forming matrix through hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, the CWT-pH 2.0 label demonstrated visible color changes in the presence of volatile ammonia concentrations ranging from 25 to 25 000 ppm. Consequently, the label successfully facilitated real-time monitoring of shrimp freshness during storage at 4 °C. Importantly, the release rate of thymol blue from the label in food simulants was minimal, measuring only 2.53%. CONCLUSION: The CWT-pH 2.0 label exhibits significant potential as a highly intelligent biogenic label for freshness monitoring in seafood preservation and processing. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Application of Surgery-First Approach in Treating Skeletal Dentofacial Asymmetry with Orthognathic Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Skeletal dentofacial asymmetry decreases patient's attractiveness by deteriorating symmetry of facial appearance which is of great significance to individuals. Surgery-first orthognathic approach manifests its advantages of shortening treatment time and improving patient's quality of life. However, current literature on surgery-first approach mainly focuses on treating prognathism, overlooking its efficacy in improving facial symmetry of skeletal dentofacial asymmetry patients. This study aimed to assess SFA's efficacy in improving facial appearance by analyzing morphological features of asymmetric bone and facial soft tissue in a three-dimensional manner. METHODS: Thirty-four patients who received orthognathic surgery in a surgery-first fashion were included. Based on three-dimensional CT reconstruction, bilateral preoperative morphological features and postoperative symmetry of hard tissue were compared respectively. Efficacy of facial soft tissue symmetry restoration was evaluated using root mean square deviation (RMSD). RESULTS: Asymmetric features mainly located in menton, mandibular body length, angulation between ramus and midsagittal plane (MSP), distance between gonion and MSP and so on, which were significantly restored after the whole treatment. RMSD of facial soft tissue surface were significantly declined after the treatment and prognathism was corrected simultaneously if existed. CONCLUSIONS: Surgery-first orthognathic approach is proved to be capable of treating skeletal dentofacial asymmetry effectively and efficiently.

Bio-Mimic, Fast-Moving, and Flippable Soft Piezoelectric Robots.

Cheetahs achieve high-speed movement and unique athletic gaits through the contraction and expansion of their limbs during the gallop. However, few soft robots can mimic their gaits and achieve the same speed of movement. Inspired by the motion gait of cheetahs, here the resonance of double spiral structure for amplified motion performance and environmental adaptability in a soft-bodied hopping micro-robot is exploited. The 0.058 g, 10 mm long tethered soft robot is capable of achieving a maximum motion speed of 42.8 body lengths per second (BL/s) and a maximum average turning speed of 482° s-1 . In addition, this robot can maintain high speed movement even after flipping. The soft robot's ability to move over complex terrain, climb hills, and carry heavy loads as well as temperature sensors is demonstrated. This research opens a new structural design for soft robots: a double spiral configuration that efficiently translates the deformation of soft actuators into swift motion of the robot with high environmental adaptability.

Promotion of liver fibrosis by Y-box binding protein 1 via the attenuation of transforming growth factor-beta 3 transcription.

Background: Spurred by the seriousness of liver fibrosis, we evaluated the correlation between Y-box binding protein 1 (YB-1) and transforming growth factor-beta 3 (TGF-ß3) expression levels in the signaling pathways of the disease. Methods: Based on a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis, YB-1 overexpression lentivirus was used to explore the effect of YB-1 on liver fibrosis in vivo. In addition, a hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation model in the HSC line LX-2 was developed using TGF-ß1. Western blot assays were used to investigate the effects of YB-1 overexpression and knockdown on liver fibrosis. Finally, chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays were used to elucidate the relationship between YB-1 and its downstream signaling pathways. Results: YB-1 was overexpressed in fibrotic liver tissue, which enhanced both fibrosis and the relative protein expressions of the TGF-ß pathway. Moreover, YB-1 overexpression promoted HSC activation in response to TGF-ß1 stimulation, but its knockdown inhibited liver fibrosis in vitro. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments indicated the expression of TGF-ß3 in the YB-1 overexpression group to be suppressed, and liver fibrosis was more obvious in the YB-1-overexpression group than in the YB-1-inhibition group. YB-1 attenuated TGF-ß3 transcription by binding to its promoter, which is involved in the effect of YB-1 on liver fibrosis. Conclusions: YB-1 overexpression in HSCs promoted liver fibrosis by attenuating TGF-ß3 transcription.

Yes-associated protein promotes the proliferation and differentiation of liver progenitor cells during liver fibrosis.

Liver fibrosis is closely related to the proliferation and differentiation of liver progenitor cells (LPCs). Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a key effector molecule of the Hippo signaling pathway and plays an important role in regulating cell proliferation and liver homeostasis. However, its role in LPCs proliferation and differentiation during liver fibrosis are not well understood. Using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, quantitative PCR and Western blotting, we discovered that LPCs expansion and enhanced YAP expression in LPCs in either choline-deficient, ethionine-supplemented (CDE) diet or 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC) diet-induced fibrotic mice, as well as in patients with liver fibrosis. By injecting adeno-associated virus vectors under the transcriptional control of Lgr5 promoter, we found that targeted knockdown of YAP in LPCs attenuated the CDE/DDC diet-induced ductular reaction and liver fibrosis. Using EdU incorporation and Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, we demonstrated that YAP can modulate LPCs proliferation. Importantly, spleen transplantation of YAP-overexpressing LPCs improved their ability to differentiate into hepatocytes and alleviated carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. Collectively, our findings indicate that LPCs expansion and differentiation during liver fibrosis could be modulated by YAP, further suggesting the possibility of manipulating YAP expression in LPCs as a potential treatment for chronic liver diseases.

A Novel and Simplified Parameter for Mandible Angle Asymmetry Evaluation in Chinese Females.

AIM: To develop a novel and simplified parameter for mandible angle asymmetry (MAA) evaluation for facial countering surgeries in Chinese females. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 250 craniofacial computer tomography of healthy Chinese individuals were collected in this retrospective study. Mimics 21.0 was applied for 3-dimensional anthropometry. The Frankfort and Green planes were set as referenced vertical and horizontal planes for measuring the distances to gonions. The differences in both orientations were analyzed to verify the symmetry. Mandible angle asymmetry (∠Go-N-ANS, MAA) which comprehensively represented horizontal and vertical placements was defined qas the novel parameter for asymmetric evaluation and quantitative analysis was conducted to generate referenced materials. RESULTS: Mandible angle asymmetry was divided into horizontal and vertical asymmetry. No significant differences were found in either horizontal or vertical orientations. The horizontal difference was 3.09±2.52 mm, the reference range was (0.28, 7.54) mm, whereas the±ertical difference was 2.59±2.48 mm, the reference range was (0.12, 6.34) mm. The difference of MAA was 1.74±1.30 degrees, and the reference range was (0.10,4.32）degrees. CONCLUSION: This study provided a novel parameter for asymmetric evaluation in the mandible angle region through quantitative 3-dimensional anthropometry, arousing plastic surgeons' attention to both aesthetics and symmetry in facial contouring surgery.

Application and Accuracy of Craniomaxillofacial Plastic Surgery Robot in Congenital Craniosynostosis Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to observe the accuracy and security of the craniomaxillofacial plastic surgery robot in congenital craniosynostosis surgery and to enhance and improve its performance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed model surgical experiments on computed tomography data of 5 children with congenital craniosynostosis who were diagnosed and treated in our hospital, and model surgical experiments and animal experiments on the skulls of 3 Bama minipigs. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference shown either in model experiments or animal experiments in comparing the actual operation with the surgical simulation and inside the groups ( P >0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The craniomaxillofacial plastic surgery robot has achieved good security and accuracy in model surgery and animal experiments. Further studies are needed to be conducted to confirm its security and accuracy and to continuously improve and refine the robot's performance.

Treatment of Asymmetric Crying Face by Fascia lata Grafting.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and discuss the plastic surgery treatment of asymmetric crying face. METHODS: From 2019 to 2022, 60 patients with asymmetric crying face were treated by fascia lata grafting. We evaluated the postoperative improvement, summarized experiences and reviewed literatures about the treatment of asymmetric crying face. RESULTS: 59 patients showed varying degrees of improvement in the movement of the affected corner of mouth, and no complications were found during the follow-up period of 6 months to 24 months. CONCLUSIONS: The cause of asymmetric crying face is still uncertain. Fascia lata grafting has shown a certain effect in the treatment of asymmetric crying face. This study evaluated this method with quite large sample. More researches are needed to explore the most appropriate treatment for asymmetric crying face.

A Modified Technique in Rhinoplasty: A Septal Extension Graft Complex Using Septal Cartilage, Ethmoid Bone, and Auricular Cartilage.

BACKGROUND: Due to the small and weak septal cartilage of Asians, it is a challenge to obtain ideal tip projection and nose lengthening in this population by performing septal extension grafts with only septal cartilage. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to introduce a septal extension graft complex incorporating nasal septal cartilage, the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone, and bilateral auricular cartilage, and to examine its effectiveness in terms of morphological and mechanical support. METHODS: Septal cartilage was harvested under an endoscope according to standard techniques. Two pieces of the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone, placed on either side of the "L" strut, served as 2 spreader grafts. A double layer of auricular cartilage was fixed as columellar strut grafts. Three-dimensional facial scanning was used to examine the change of 3 parameters. Nasal tip resistance was evaluated by a digital Newton meter. RESULTS: In total, 25 patients were followed up postoperatively for a mean of 25.9 months. The analysis showed significant differences in both contour parameters and nasal resistance: nasal length (mean [standard deviation], 41.4 [4.0] vs 46.2 [3.4] mm, P < 0.05) and nasal tip projection (21.3 [3.2] vs 24.4 [2.7] mm, P < 0.05) appeared to increase postoperatively, whereas nasolabial angle (117.6° [5.9°] vs 109.5° [5.3°], P < 0.05) showed a significant decrease after surgery. The resistance of the nasal tip also increased significantly (P < 0.05) at displacements of 1, 2, and 3 mm. All patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results, and no serious complications occurred. CONCLUSIONS: This kind of modified septal extension graft technique can effectively adjust nasal morphology for short-nose East Asians.

Reconstructive Operation of Severe Orbital Hypertelorism With Computer-Assisted Precise Virtual Plan.

Orbital hypertelorism correction is still a less precise procedure, with a simple preoperative design and surgical results often depending on the operator's experience. In recent years, computer-assisted technology has been fully utilized in craniofacial surgery. This article aims to explore the clinical results of computer-assisted technology in orbital hypertelorism correction and discuss its advantages and effects on treatment. Four patients with orbital hypertelorism underwent intracranial and extracranial combined box osteotomy correction. Preoperative computed tomography scans were performed, and 3-dimensional 3D digital technology was used to measure the orbital spacing, virtually design the 3D cutting scheme, and guide the intraoperative 3D cutting to improve the accuracy of periorbital osteotomy and reduce the surgical risk. Four patients underwent successful surgery, and the average distance of the medial orbital wall was decreased from 43.6 to 23.4 mm. Computer-assisted box osteotomy shortens the operative time and provides better corrective results.

Exosomes derived from hepatitis B virus-infected hepatocytes promote liver fibrosis via miR-222/TFRC axis.

Exosomal miRNAs activates hepatic stellate cell (HSC) and promote fibrosis. miR-222 was found to be increased in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected hepatocytes, and ferroptosis was reported to ameliorate liver fibrosis (LF). Although miR-222 and ferroptosis have been implicated in LF, the association between miR-222 and ferroptosis and how they coordinate to regulate LF are still not explicit. This study investigates the roles of miR-222 and transferrin receptor (TFRC) in LF. Lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) level was analyzed by flow cytometry. FerroOrange staining was used to measure intracellular iron level. Luciferase reporter assay was adopted to confirm the binding of miR-222 and TFRC. Real-time quantitative PCR and immunoblots were applied to analyze gene and protein expression. The results showed that supplementation of exosomes derived from HBV-infected LO2 cells remarkably enhanced LX-2 cell activation, evidenced by elevated hydroxyprolin (Hyp) secretion and α-SMA and COL1A2 expression. miR-222 was significantly increased in HBV-Exo. Overexpressing miR-222 upregulated cell viability, secretion of Hpy, and expression of α-SMA and COL1A2, which were all blocked by overexpression of TFRC. Further study showed that TFRC was a target of miR-222, and miR-222 promoted LX-2 cell activation through suppressing TFRC-induced ferroptosis in LX-2 cells. Exosomal miR-222 derived from HBV-infected hepatocytes promoted LF through inhibiting TFRC and TFRC-induced ferroptosis. This study emphasizes the significance of miR-222/TFRC axis in LF and suggests new insights in clinical decision making while treating LF. Exosomes derived from HBV-infected LO2 cells promote LX-2 cell activation and liver fibrosis in mouse Exosomal miR-222 derived from HBV-infected LO2 cells promotes LX-2 cell activation TFRC is a target of miR-222 and inhibits LX-2 cell activation induced by miR-222 miR-222 promotes LX-2 cell activation through inhibiting TFRC-induced ferroptosis.

Effects of mandibular distraction osteogenesis on anesthetic implications in children with hemifacial microsomia.

BACKGROUND: Hemifacial microsomia (HFM) is a congenital craniofacial malformation, and its features include hypoplasia and asymmetry in skeletal tissue and soft tissue. These features are usually associated with a difficult airway. Mandibular distraction osteogenesis can achieve mandibular advancement, but its effect on the subsequent laryngoscopic views has not been adequately documented. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the change in laryngoscopic views after mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) in children with HFM and to examine the radiological changes after MDO by using computed tomography (CT)-based three-dimensional (3-D) airway reconstruction. METHODS: An observational prospective study was carried out in children with HFM undergoing MDO. All children underwent 3-D airway reconstruction preoperatively before the placement and removal of the distractor. The temporomandibular joint lesions in children were classified by the Pruzansky-Kaban classification. The Cormack-Lehane grade was assessed after induction under direct laryngoscopy. The relationship between difficult laryngoscopy and the Pruzansky-Kaban classification was assessed. Changes in the upper pharyngeal airway parameters and laryngoscopic views were analyzed. RESULTS: Forty children (ages ranging from 5 to 16 years, males = 26, females = 14) with HFM underwent 80 anesthesia for MDO. The incidence of difficult laryngoscopy before mandibular distraction was 5/12 (41.7%) in type IIa, 19/24 (79.2%) in type IIb and 1/4 (25%) in type III HFM. The mean difference in the incidence of difficult laryngoscopy before and after MDO was 33.3% (95% CI: -6.7% to 73.3%), 50.0% (95% CI: 8.4% to 91.6%), and 0% for type IIa, type IIb, and type III, respectively. In type IIb, 12/19 cases of difficult laryngoscopy became easy after mandibular distraction: this was associated with an increase in the palatopharyngeal and glossopharyngeal CT parameters (p < .05). In type IIa, 5/5 cases of difficult laryngoscopy became easy after mandibular distraction, and 1/7 cases of easy laryngoscopy became difficult laryngoscopy. However, there were no significant changes in the palatopharyngeal, glossopharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal CT parameters in type IIa and type III HFM (p > .05). CONCLUSIONS: MDO can improve the laryngoscopic views in children with HFM. According to the Pruzansky-Kaban classification, children with type IIb showed the highest incidence of difficult laryngoscopy before MDO. After MDO, the improvement in laryngoscopic views under direct laryngoscopy in type IIb was related to the increase in the palatopharyngeal and glossopharyngeal volume.

Specific knockdown of Y-box binding protein 1 in hepatic progenitor cells inhibits proliferation and alleviates liver fibrosis.

The proliferation of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) contributes to liver regeneration and fibrogenesis during chronic liver injury; however, the mechanism modulating HPC proliferation remains unknown. Y-box binding protein-1 (YB-1) is a transcription factor that regulates the transcription of several genes and is highly expressed in liver injury. We explored the role of YB-1 in HPC proliferation and liver fibrosis. We detected increased expansion of HPCs and elevated levels of YB-1 in HPCs from patients with hepatitis B virus-related fibrosis and choline-deficient ethionine-supplemented or 5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine diet-induced mice compared with those in control groups. HPC-specific deletion of YB-1 using YB-1flox/flox; Foxl1-Cre+/- mice led to reduced HPC expansion and less collagen deposition in the liver tissues compared with that in Cre-/- mice. In cultured primary HPCs, YB-1 knockdown inhibited HPC proliferation. Further experiments indicated YB-1 negatively regulated p53 expression, and silencing of p53 blocked YB-1 knockdown-mediated inhibition of HPC proliferation. Collectively, YB-1 negatively regulates HPC proliferation and alleviates liver fibrosis by p53.