Biological characteristics of microRNAs secreted by exosomes of periodontal ligament stem cells due to mechanical force.

BACKGROUND: Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) has previously been considered an inflammatory process. However, recent studies suggest that exosomes may play an important role in the cellular microenvironment of OTM. microRNAs (miRNAs) are one of the major constituents of exosomes. This study aims to investigate the biological characteristics of miRNAs secreted by exosomes of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) due to mechanical forces. MATERIALS AND METHODS: First, we established a mechanical stress model. The PDLSCs were loaded under different force values and exosomes were extracted after 48 h. High-throughput sequencing of exosomal miRNAs was performed to further evaluate their biological functions and underlying mechanisms. RESULTS: The morphology and functions of exosomes were not significantly different between the loading and non-loading PDLSC groups. The optimal loading time and force were 48 h and 1 g/cm2, respectively. After sequencing, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopaedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway and network analyses were performed and 10 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified according to a literature search. These are miR-99a-5p, miR-485-3P, miR-29a-3p,miR-21-5p, miR-146a-5p, miR140-3p, miR-1306-5p, miR-126-5p, miR-125a-5p, and miR-23a-3p. LIMITATIONS: Extracting exosomes needs a large amount of PDLSCs. More functional experiments need to be done to confirm the exact mechanism of exosomal miRNAs of PDLSCs due to mechanical force. CONCLUSIONS: The expression levels of miRNAs secreted by PDLSC-derived exosomes due to mechanical force were very different compared to PDLSC-derived exosomes under nonmechanical stress. The function of many of the identified exosomal miRNAs was found to be related to osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Further validation is required. A functional investigation of these miRNA could provide novel insights into their mechanism.

Study on the alleviation of Fengshi Gutong capsule on rheumatoid arthritis through integrating network pharmacology and experimental exploration.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Fengshi Gutong (FSGT) capsule, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has effects including warming meridians and dispersing cold, and relieving pain by dredging collaterals. FSGT is generally used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in clinic in China. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aims to investigate the alleviation provided by FSGT capsule on RA in vivo and the engaged mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model was used to evaluate the alleviation of FSGT capsule on RA in vivo. Network pharmacology was used to find the potential involved molecular targets. Western-blot, Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were conducted. Wound healing assay was performed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). RESULTS: FSGT capsule (300, 900 mg/kg) alleviated RA in CIA mice with no obvious side effects. The results from network pharmacology showed that the top 6 molecular targets involved in the FSGT-provided alleviation on RA were interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), C-C motif chemokine 2 (CCL2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), interleukin 1ß (IL-1ß), and these results imply the critical participation of inhibiting inflammation or angiogenesis. Next, FSGT capsule decreased the elevated serum contents of rheumatoid factor (RF) and VEGF, and some pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNFα and IL-6. Moreover, FSGT capsule also reduced the elevated protein expression of ICAM1, IL-1ß and phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) in synovium from CIA mice. Further in vitro results showed that totally 13 compounds from FSGT reduced the enhanced IL-1ß and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA expression in RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Meanwhile, 7 compounds from FSGT decreased the VEGF-induced HUVEC migration. Among those compounds, benzoylhypaconine (BHA), pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (PSE), glycyrrhetnic acid (GA), isoliquiritigenin (ISL), quercetin (QUER) and kaempferol (KAE) were found to inhibit both inflammation and angiogenesis in vitro. CONCLUSION: FSGT capsule ameliorates RA in CIA mice by reducing inflammation, abrogating angiogenesis and relieving pain. Some compounds in FSGT, including BHA, GA, PSE, ISL, QUER and KAE, reduced both inflammation and angiogenesis in vitro, which suggests that those compounds may contribute to the FSGT capsule-provided alleviation on RA.

[Comparison of digital model and dental plaster model in evaluation of bilateral cleft lip and palate].

PURPOSE: To compare the reliability of digital model and plaster model on evaluation of bilateral cleft lip and palate. METHODS: Nineteen pairs of digital and plaster model obtained from bilateral cleft lip and palate patients were measured, including nine measurements, such as maxillary alveolar length, width, cleft width, the deviation of maxillary middle line. One-way ANOVA was conducted for statistical analysis with SPSS 24.0 software package. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the repeated measurements of the two types of models, there was no significant difference in the measurements between two types of models used in clinic. CONCLUSIONS: Both methods are suitable for evaluation of bilateral cleft lip and palate patients. Compared with conventional plaster model, digital model provides a safer and convenient way to obtain useful information both for research and clinical need.

Oblique Plane Cutting of Cone Beam Computed Tomography Analysis on the Safe Zone for Micro-Implants of Maxillary Molar Region.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the safe zone for micro-implants of the maxillary molar region by oblique plane cutting mode of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). METHODS: Thirty-nine patients with orthodontic alignment were enrolled with CBCT. In this study, the areas between the maxillary second premolar and the first molar were analyzed by the image reconstruction with CS 3D Imaging Software. The alveolar ridge bone width and the minimum interradicular space were measured at the height of 8, 10, and 12 mm from archwire under the 2 cutting modes of the oblique plane and coronal plane, respectively. The statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: The bone widths of alveolar ridge between the maxillary second premolar and the first molar were statistically significant under the 2 cutting modes of the oblique plane and coronal plane. The bone width was gradually decreased to the cranial side with the fixed measurement point and the interradicular space was gradually increased. The differences were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The oblique plane cutting of CBCT is more representative of the alveolar bone than the coronal plane. There is sufficient safe zone between the maxillary second premolar and the first molar for most patients to implant the micro-implants. However, the individual differences present large and CBCT needs to be taken before the implantation.

[Efficacy of semiconductor laser therapy combined with botulinum toxin A type injection in treatment of temporomandibular disorders].

PURPOSE: To observe the efficacy of semiconductor laser therapy in combination with botulinum toxin A type injection in treating temporomandibular disorders and the influence on serum levels of interleukin(IL)-1 and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α. METHODS: Ninety patients with temporomandibular disorders were selected and randomly divided into control group and treatment group with 45 cases in each group. Patients in the control group received semiconductor laser therapy,once per day and 1 course for 1 week. Patients in the treatment group was given semiconductor laser therapy in combination with botulinum toxin A type. 50 U botulinum toxin A type were injected into the masseteric and temporal muscles with 5 injections at different sites in each side. The treatment course of patients was 2 weeks. Fricton scale indexes, pain index, and efficacy were compared between the two groups. Serum levels of IL-1 and TNF-α were detected in both groups. SPSS19.0 software package was used for data analysis. RESULTS: After treatment, PI, DI and CMI in the treatment group were significantly lower than the control group (P<0.01). After 1 and 2 weeks of treatment, VAS score of the treatment group was significantly lower than the control group (P<0.01). The total efficacy rate of the treatment group was 93.33%,which was significantly higher than control group (66.67%, P<0.05). Serum levels of IL-1 and TNF-α of the treatment group were significantly lower than the control group (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The efficacy of semiconductor laser therapy in combination with botulinum toxin A type injection in treating temporomandibular disorders is significant,and may be related to decreased serum levels of IL-1 and TNF-α.

[Investigation on knowledge, attitudes and practice of oral heath in 275 Kazak people in Changji district].

PURPOSE: To explore the situation of Kazak people's knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) about oral health and to offer scientific evidence for carrying out oral health education for Kazak people in Xinjiang Changji district. METHODS: Three hundred Kazak people were randomly included from those who went to the People's Hospital, Department of Stomatology in Xinjiang Changji district for oral examination to conduct a survey on oral KAP. Two hundred seventy-five valid questionnaires were obtained. The data was inputted individually into Excel 2003 on 2 computers, and SPSS 17.0 software package was used for X(2) test. RESULTS: The percentage of the examined Kazak people in Xinjiang Changji district who obtained oral health knowledge through media was 69.4%. Only 8.7% of the subjects had their oral cavity examined regularly. 44% of the subjects achieved oral heath knowledge positively and 64.4% of the subjects believed in health education. 56% of the subjects brushed teeth twice or more per day and only 4% of the subjects used dental floss. Regarding the attitude towards treating dental diseases, 69.5% of the subjects would like to choose the departments of stomatology in the central hospitals, and 6.9% of the subjects didn't care about the doctors. The unbalanced development of oral health knowledge, attitude and practice and the difference in education and income were statistically significant in oral health behavior such as the times of brushing teeth, the choice of doctors and hospitals. CONCLUSIONS: The Kazak responders in Xinjiang Changji district have little knowledge about oral health, although their attitude towards oral health is very positive. Because their oral health behavior is not satisfactory, it is very important to provide with them further education of oral health.

[Effect of semi-fixed Twin-block appliance on temporomandibular joint remodeling].

PURPOSE: To evaluate quantitatively the effect of semi-fixed Twin-block appliance on the temporomandibular joint remodeling during the Class II malocclusion treatment. METHODS: Twenty two Class II division 1 patients treated with semi-fixed Twin-block appliance were included. Pre- and post-orthopedic treatment cephalometric data were analyzed with SPSS13.0 software package for paired t test. RESULTS: The mandibular condylar growth was directed superiorly(2.7mm) and posteriorly (3.6mm) (P<0.01), the glenoid fossa was displaced in a inferior(1.5mm) (P<0.01) and posterior (0.8mm)(P<0.05) direction, the effective TMJ changes showed a pattern similar to condylar growth in a superior(4.2mm) and posterior(2.7mm) direction(P<0.01), the mandibular rotation was slightly clockwise(P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The application of semi-fixed Twin-block appliance shows its effectiveness on patients' compliance and the remodeling in temporomandibular joint, contributing to the correction of sagittal jaw relationship discrepancy.

[Study on the teaching mode and quality management of orthodontic education in undergraduates].

Orthodontic teaching, especially in undergraduates is the most difficult part in dental education, not only on the aspect of theoretical teaching covering a wide range of disciplines in limited teaching hours, but also their application in clinical practice. With the aim of training qualified dental practitioner with global competitiveness, improving the quality of training curriculum, the Orthodontic Department of Shanghai Jiao Tong University College of Stomatology has persisted in researching and reforming the teaching system. This paper described the current situation of orthodontic teaching and the concept of quality management. Our thought on the teaching mode and quality management of orthodontic training was also discussed.

[Non-extraction treatment in borderline class III malocclusion].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of non-extraction treatment protocol combined with rapid palatal expansion and lower molar distalization in borderline Class III malocclusion in adolescents. METHODS: Nine borderline Class III patients (average age: 13.4 ± 0.7 years) with average (6.7 ± 2.8)mm crowding in maxilla and (2.6 ± 0.4) mm crowding in mandible received the treatment described above. The lateral cephalograms of these patients were analyzed. All patients had a pretreatment ANB angle greater than -3°. The difference before and after treatment was analyzed with paired t test using SPSS11.0 software package. RESULTS: Evaluation of cephalometric measurements revealed forward movement of the maxilla, indicated by 1.69 mm forward positioning of A-point (P < 0.05), and an increase in SNA by 1° (P = 0.054). The mandible was inhibited from growing forward with slight retrusion evidenced by a decreased B-point (-1.88 mm, P < 0.05), and a decrease in SNB by 0.69° (P < 0.05). The combined maxillary and mandibular changes resulted in an increase in ANB angle (1.69°, P < 0.05). A clockwise rotation of the mandible was found, with an increase in Y-axis (0.88°,P < 0.05) and SN-MP (1.50°,P<0.05). Significant change was also found in the forward movement of maxillary incisors (+3.44 mm, P < 0.05), and the slight retrusive positioning of mandibular incisors (-0.5 mm, P > 0.05). An increase in U1-SnPg' (1 mm, P < 0.05) and a decrease in L1-SnPg' (0.63 mm, P > 0.05) resulted in the improvement of upper and lower lips relationship (1.88 mm, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This treatment protocol can improve the sagittal jaws and upper-lower lip relationship.

[Correlation of adolescents' skeletal maturation determined by cervical vertebrae and hand-wrist in Shanghai region].

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the skeletal maturation determined by cervical vertebrae and hand-wrist, and to explore the possibility of using lateral cephalograms to evaluate physical development stages of orthodontic patients. METHODS: The samples were derived from 170 pairs of lateral cephalograms and hand-wrist radiographs taken before orthodontic treatment (52 males, 118 females; 5-18 years of age). Cervical vertebral development was evaluated by the method of Hassel and Farman. Hand-wrist radiographs were determined according to the method of Grave and Brown's system. The Spearman rank-order correlation coefficients were estimated for the samples, and for males and females respectively to detect the relationship between the two ways of skeletal maturation measurements using SPSS 11.0 software package. RESULTS: The spearman correlation coefficient was 0.918(P<0.01) between cervical vertebrae maturation and hand-wrist maturation for sexes combined, and 0.858 (P<0.01) for males and 0.882(P<0.01) for females respectively. CONCLUSION: The cervical vertebrae analysis on lateral cephalogram was a valid way on orthodontic practice to evaluate physical development stage of growing patients.

[A study of highpull extraoral traction on the treatment of growing patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of highpull extraoral traction on growing patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion. METHODS: 11 pairs of cephalograms obtained before and after highpull extra-oral traction treatment were used in this study, treatment changes were measured with Pancherz analysis, and compared with the control group. Independent samples group t test with SPSS 11.0 software package was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: highpull extra-oral traction had inhibitive effect on forward and downward maxillary growth. Changes on SNA, A-Olp between the two groups were statistically different (P<0.01). Upper molars were moved back (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: highpull extraoral traction had orthopedic effect on the correction of skeletal Class II malocclusion of growing patients, including inhibition of maxillary growth and allowance of fully expression of mandibular growth. Meanwhile, dental-alveolar changes on the vertical and sagittal plane were beneficial to further improvement of the dental and facial appearance of the patients.

[A comparative study on clinical effectiveness of activator and Headgear-Activator].

OBJECTIVES: Compare the effects of Activator and Headgear-Activator on growing patients with Class II malocclusion. METHODS: The material consisted of 36 pairs of cephalograms, among which 12 cases were treated with Activator, 17 cases with Headgear-Activator and 9 cases without treatment for control. A reference grid was created to evaluate the skeletal and dental changes quantitatively. RESULTS: Activator and Headgear-Activator were effective on the correction of Class II malocclusion, but the mechanisms were different. CONCLUSION: Both appliances were effective on the correction of skeletal Class II malocclusion of growing patients. By using the headgear, the inhabitation of forward and downward growth of the maxilla was enhanced, and the dental-alveolar changes different from Activator treatment benefit for the improvement of the dental facial appearance of the patient.

[A comparison of three cephalometric analysis on the evaluation of orthodontic treatment].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the reliability of different cephalometric superimposition methods for evaluation of orthodontic treatment. METHODS: The material consisted of fourteen pairs of cephalograms obtained before and after Herbst treatment. Each pair of the cephalograms were traced, superimposed by means of the three different superimposition methods three times each. A reference grid was used to quantitatively evaluate the sagittal dental and skeletal changes. RESULTS: (1) There was no statistically significant difference between the repeated measurements in the three methods respectively, i.e. all the three methods were reliable. (2) There was no significant difference among the three superimposition methods to evaluate the sagittal skeletal and dental changes. (3) Comparing the coefficient of reliability, none of the three methods was suitable for the individual assessment, and Pancherz' method only was acceptable for assessment of patients in groups. CONCLUSION: The three methods have their own characteristic. The Pancherz's method is comparatively direct and effective on quantitative evaluation of orthodontic treatment.

[Quantitative assessment to the effect of HGAC treatments].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the treatment effect of skeletal class II malocclusion with HGAC. METHODS: Seventeen skeletal Class II cases were selected and treated with HGAC, pre-treatment and post-treatment cephalometric radiographs were analyzed by Pancherz analysis. RESULTS: Maxillary growth was inhibited by HGAC, especially in vertical direction. Mandibular retrognathism was improved significantly in horizontal direction. Meanwhile, the upper incisors were retruded and intruded. CONCLUSION: HGAC was effective in the correction of skeletal class II malocclusion.