Immune checkpoint inhibitors and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibody/tyrosine kinase inhibitors with or without transarterial chemoembolization as first-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (CHANCE2201): a target trial emulation study.

Background: The role of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unconfirmed. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) plus anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) antibody/tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) with or without TACE as first-line treatment for advanced HCC. Methods: This nationwide, multicenter, retrospective cohort study included advanced HCC patients receiving either TACE with ICIs plus anti-VEGF antibody/TKIs (TACE-ICI-VEGF) or only ICIs plus anti-VEGF antibody/TKIs (ICI-VEGF) from January 2018 to December 2022. The study design followed the target trial emulation framework with stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (sIPTW) to minimize biases. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and safety. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05332821. Findings: Among 1244 patients included in the analysis, 802 (64.5%) patients received TACE-ICI-VEGF treatment, and 442 (35.5%) patients received ICI-VEGF treatment. The median follow-up time was 21.1 months and 20.6 months, respectively. Post-application of sIPTW, baseline characteristics were well-balanced between the two groups. TACE-ICI-VEGF group exhibited a significantly improved median OS (22.6 months [95% CI: 21.2-23.9] vs 15.9 months [14.9-17.8]; P < 0.0001; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.63 [95% CI: 0.53-0.75]). Median PFS was also longer in TACE-ICI-VEGF group (9.9 months [9.1-10.6] vs 7.4 months [6.7-8.5]; P < 0.0001; aHR 0.74 [0.65-0.85]) per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST) version 1.1. A higher ORR was observed in TACE-ICI-VEGF group, by either RECIST v1.1 or modified RECIST (41.2% vs 22.9%, P < 0.0001; 47.3% vs 29.7%, P < 0.0001). Grade ≥3 adverse events occurred in 178 patients (22.2%) in TACE-ICI-VEGF group and 80 patients (18.1%) in ICI-VEGF group. Interpretation: This multicenter study supports the use of TACE combined with ICIs and anti-VEGF antibody/TKIs as first-line treatment for advanced HCC, demonstrating an acceptable safety profile. Funding: National Natural Science Foundation of China, National Key Research and Development Program of China, Jiangsu Provincial Medical Innovation Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, and Nanjing Life Health Science and Technology Project.

Ultrasonographic Study of the Submandibular Gland for Botulinum Neurotoxin Injection.

BACKGROUND: Hypertrophied submandibular glands provide a bulky contour to the lower face. Botulinum neurotoxin injection methods are commonly used for facial contouring; however, no studies have suggested injection points because of the lack of delicate anatomical information on the submandibular gland. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the optimal injection site for botulinum neurotoxin injections in the submandibular gland. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Anatomical considerations when injecting botulinum neurotoxin into the submandibular gland were determined using ultrasonography. The thickness of the submandibular gland, its depth from the skin surface, and the location of the vascular bundle were observed bilaterally in 42 participants. Two cadavers were dissected to measure the location of the submandibular gland corresponding to the ultrasonographic observation. RESULTS: The thickest part of the submandibular gland measured 11.12 ± 2.46 in width with a depth of 4.63 ± 0.76. At the point where it crosses the line of the lateral canthus, it measured 5.53 ± 1.83 in width and 8.73 ± 1.64 in depth. CONCLUSION: The authors suggest optimal injection sites based on external anatomical landmarks. These guidelines aim to maximize the effects of botulinum neurotoxin therapy by minimizing its deleterious effects, which can be useful in clinical settings.

Polynucleotides HPT for Asian Skin Regeneration and Rejuvenation.

Introduction: Even lightly compromised skin may impact self-esteem and social behaviour. After intradermal infiltration, natural-origin Polynucleotides High Purification Technology (PN HPT) promote new collagen and extracellular matrix production, translating into a physiological correction of the ageing skin. The study aimed to explore the benefits of intradermal PN HPT on the four perceptual skin quality categories "Skin Tone Evenness", "Skin Surface Evenness", "Skin Firmness", and "Skin Glow" in a representative sample of 30 Asian subjects (mean age 40.2± 11.4 years old). Methods: Study protocol: three intradermal injections of a PN HPT-based Class III CE-marked medical device at T0 (baseline assessment and first treatment session), T1 (four weeks after baseline), and T2 (eight weeks after baseline), with efficacy and safety evaluations at T1, T2, T3 (four months after baseline) and T4 (six months after baseline). Quantitative and qualitative assessments: 3D skin analysis system QuantifiCare and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS, Investigator and Patient subscales). Results: PN HPT treatment led to a meaningful and statistically significant improvement of the skin surface, firmness, pigmentation, and radiance, with no early- or late-onset adverse events and benefits persisting up to the sixth-month visit in all subjects. At T4, 33% and 43% of treated subjects felt "Much Improved" and "Very Much Improved" (optimal result); 56% and 44% of treated subjects felt "Satisfied" or "Very Satisfied". At T4, the mean Investigator GAIS scores were 3.33 out of 5.0 for the "Skin Tone Evenness" skin quality perceptual category, 3.46 for the "Skin Surface Evenness" category, 3.61 for "Skin Firmness", and 3.45 per for the radiance determinant of the "Skin Glow" category. Conclusion: Intradermal treatment with the PN HPT-based medical device led to a meaningful improvement of the skin surface, firmness, pigmentation, and radiance with complete safety. The aesthetic benefits persisted up to the sixth-month visit in all subjects.

Exploring facial overfilled syndrome from the perspective of anatomy and the mismatched delivery of fillers.

INTRODUCTION: Facial fillers and injectables have transformed the landscape of cosmetic procedures, offering rejuvenation possibilities. However, the emergence of "Facial Overfilled Syndrome (FOS)" presents a concerning trend attributed to excessive filler use and suboptimal injection techniques. Understanding the interplay between facial aging and augmentation techniques is crucial in addressing and preventing FOS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Facial overfilled syndrome is characterized by the excessive use of fillers, resulting in a distorted and heavy appearance. It manifests in various forms, including 'flowerhorn' foreheads, 'sunset' eyes, 'chipmunk' cheeks, 'witch' chins, and 'pillow' faces. The syndrome arises from attempts to combat anatomical aging with dramatic filler treatments, causing rapid volume changes and skin tightening. Skeletal structures and soft tissue distribution across different ethnicities play a significant role in FOS development. RESULTS: Understanding the aging process across facial tissues is essential, as fillers cannot entirely reverse aging manifestations. Tailored assessment and treatment plans should precede filler injections, involving muscle assessment, observation of facial movements during injection, and ultrasound imaging of fat layers. Attention should be given to filler pressure and migration risks, particularly in areas with elevated pressure. Additionally, alternative approaches like energy-based devices and polymer reinforcement of facial ligaments should be considered to minimize filler use. Ethnic variations in facial anatomy require careful consideration to avoid overcorrection. CONCLUSION: FOS predominantly affects individuals of East Asian descent due to specific facial characteristics. Prevention strategies involve minimizing filler use, addressing underlying bone changes, and considering ethnic and gender differences in facial anatomy. Recent MRI and ultrasound studies challenge the notion of filler breakdown, emphasizing the importance of filler selection and injection techniques. Education, individualized treatments, and a holistic understanding of facial anatomy are key to preventing and managing FOS and ensuring natural and harmonious facial aesthetics.

Observation on cadavers and through ultrasonography using a 2 mm needle length for intradermal injections.

BACKGROUND: An intradermal injection is a medical procedure that involves administering a small amount of medication or substance into the dermal layer of the skin. This research focused on identifying the most suitable injection needle for precise intradermal administration of skin boosters. METHODS: The study involved conducting intradermal injections on four cadavers and participants using a 2 mm length, 34-gauge needle (N-Finders, Inc., South Korea). During the cadaveric study, the polynucleotide prefilled syringe was dyed green, and an anatomist performed dissections, removing only the skin layer. Ultrasonographic observations were carried out to ensure accurate intradermal injection placement. RESULTS: In all four cadavers, the facial injections at the anterior cheek region were precisely administered intradermally at a 30-degree injection angle. However, the 90-degree injection was found just below the dermal layer upon skin layer removal. DISCUSSION: The findings suggest that using a 2 mm needle length allows for easy and convenient intradermal injections.

Magnetic resonance imaging thicknesses and apparent diffusion coefficient values of the endometrium and junction zone in women of reproductive age.

BACKGROUND: The endometrium and uterine junction zone often change throughout the menstrual cycle. Some pathological conditions may appear normal in uterine imaging, which will lead to missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis. PURPOSE: To evaluate the changes in the thickness and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the endometrium and uterine junction zone throughout the menstrual cycle in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of women of reproductive age. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data were collected from 40 healthy women of reproductive age with regular menstrual cycles from January 2017 to April 2018. They underwent four total MRI sessions during the menstrual, proliferation, and early and late secretive phases. The main MRI sequences were T2-weighted (T2W) volume isotropic turbo spin echo acquisition (VISTA) spectral attenuated inversion recovery (SPAIR) and diffusion-weighted imaging (b = 0, 600, 800, 1000 s/mm2), which were used to measure the thicknesses and ADC values of endometrium and uterine junction zone. RESULTS: First, the endometrium was thinnest during the menstrual phase and thickest in the late secretive phase. Second, the uterine junction zone was thinnest in the late secretive phase and thickest in the menstrual phase. Third, the ADC values of the endometrium were lowest in the menstrual phase and peaked in the early secretive phase. Finally, the ADC values of the uterine junction zone were lowest in the menstrual phase and peaked in the late secretive phase. CONCLUSION: The endometrium and uterine junction zone showed cyclic changes. Radiologists should consider these changes in the thickness and ADC values when analyzing MRI images of the uterus.

Study of three-dimensional dose distribution based-deep learning in predicting distant metastasis in head and neck cancer / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

Objective:To investigate the role of three-dimensional dose distribution-based deep learning model in predicting distant metastasis of head and neck cancer.Methods:Radiotherapy and clinical follow-up data of 237 patients with head and neck cancer undergoing intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) from 4 different institutions were collected. Among them, 131 patients from HGJ and CHUS institutions were used as the training set, 65 patients from CHUM institution as the validation set, and 41 patients from HMR institution as the test set. Three-dimensional dose distribution and GTV contours of 131 patients in the training set were input into the DM-DOSE model for training and then validated with validation set data. Finally, the independent test set data were used for evaluation. The evaluation content included the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), balanced accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, concordance index and Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis.Results:In terms of prognostic prediction of distant metastasis of head and neck cancer, the DM-DOSE model based on three-dimensional dose distribution and GTV contours achieved the optimal prognostic prediction performance, with an AUC of 0.924, and could significantly distinguish patients with high and low risk of distant metastasis (log-rank test, P<0.001). Conclusion:Three-dimensional dose distribution has good predictive value for distant metastasis in head and neck cancer patients treated with IMRT, and the constructed prediction model can effectively predict distant metastasis.

Preclinical Image Quality Evaluation of Simultaneous Vision Intraocular Lenses / 中国医疗器械杂志

Three different preclinical evaluation methods of MTF through-frequency response, MTF through-focus-response and expected visual acuity were used to compare and analyze the imaging differences of IOLs with four different optical designs. The research work could be used in the simultaneous vision IOLs in the optical design stage and verify the optical quality of the IOLs, the results can predict the visual representation of the patients better. The evaluation results can provide reference for IOL manufacturers and users in product design, development, validation and application selection.

Acupuncture for prevention of moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the clinical efficacy of acupuncture for prevention of moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis.@*METHODS@#A total of 105 patients with moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis were randomly divided into an observation group (53 cases, 3 cases dropped off) and a control group (52 cases, 4 cases dropped off). The patients in the observation group were treated with acupuncture at Yintang (GV 24+), Yingxiang (LI 20), Hegu (LI 4), Zusanli (ST 36), Fengchi (GB 20), Feishu (BL 13), etc. 4 weeks before the seizure period, once every other day, 3 times a week for 4 weeks. The patients in the control group were not given any intervention before the seizure period. Emergency drugs can be given appropriately during the seizure period in both groups. After seizure period, the seizure rate was recorded in the two groups; before treatment and on week 1, 2, 4, 6 of seizure period after treatment, the rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (RQLQ) score and total nasal symptom score (TNSS) were observed in the two groups; the rescue medication score (RMS) was recorded on week 1-6 of seizure period in the two groups.@*RESULTS@#The seizure rate of the observation group was 84.0% (42/50), which was lower than 100.0% (48/48) in the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the scores of RQLQ and TNSS at each time point of seizure period were decreased compared with before treatment in the observation group (P<0.01), which were lower than the control group (P<0.01). The RMS score at each time point of seizure period in the observation group was lower than the control group (P<0.05, P<0.01).@*CONCLUSION@#Acupuncture can reduce the incidence of moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis, relieve the symptoms, improve the quality of life and reduce the use of emergency drugs.

Validation study of the Chinese version of atopic dermatitis control tool / 中华预防医学杂志

To assess the reliability, validity and responsiveness of the Chinese version of the atopic dermatitis control tool (ADCT). After this study obtained authorization for the Chinese version of the ADCT scale. 114 patients with atopic dermatitis were enrolled from the Department of Dermatology, Peking University First Hospital using convenience sampling from October 2022. Patients were surveyed using the General Information Questionnaire, Chinese version of ADCT, patient-oriented eczema measure (POEM),peak pruritus numerical rating scale (PP-NRS),dermatology life quality index (DLQI) and the global patient self-assessment for disease severity. Mann-Whitney rank sum test and Spearman correlation analysis were used for item analysis; content validity was assessed using content validity index (CVI); exploratory factor analysis was used to assess structural validity; Cronbach' alpha coefficient was used to assess internal consistency; Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the correlation of ADCT with other scales to assess external responsiveness. The results showed that all items were retained by item analysis. I-CVI was 0.9-1, and S-CVI/Average was 0.983; the scale extracted one common factor by factor analysis, the cumulative variance explanation rate was 77.927%; the Cronbach' alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.937; the correlation coefficients of the Chinese version of ADCT with POEM, PP-NRS, and DLQI were 0.805, 0.861, and 0.709 respectively. In conclusion, the Chinese version of the ADCT has adequate reliability, validity and responsiveness, and is suitable for measuring disease control in Chinese patients with atopic dermatitis.

Current Practices in Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Filler Treatment in Asia Pacific and Practical Approaches to Achieving Safe and Natural-Looking Results.

Complications such as delayed inflammatory reactions (DIRs) and unnatural outcomes can sometimes arise from hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal filler treatments and can be challenging to address. Given the popularity of HA dermal fillers for aesthetic procedures, there is a need for preventive strategies to minimize these complications. Two hundred practitioners from 10 regions in Asia Pacific who administer HA fillers completed a survey on prevention of DIRs and unnatural outcomes. Thirteen global experts convened to evaluate the current practices and propose practical approaches for safe and appropriate use of HA dermal fillers. From the survey, the top three measures used to reduce the risk of DIRs included choosing an appropriate HA filler, aseptic technique, and patient selection. Key strategies employed to achieve natural-looking outcomes were treatment customization, understanding the rheological properties and behavior of different HA fillers, and being conservative in treatment approach. The panel developed a concise reference guide aimed at minimizing the risk of DIRs while achieving natural aesthetic outcomes. Five practical considerations were recommended: patient assessment and individualization of treatment plan, choice of an appropriate HA filler, adequate knowledge of facial anatomy, strict adherence to aseptic methods, and proper injection technique. The panel highlighted the need for education efforts to increase awareness of differential immunogenicity between HA fillers and to improve understanding on the importance of preserving aesthetic individuality for optimal results. These practical insights from the global experts support practitioners in optimizing safety and quality of aesthetic treatment with HA fillers.

Insights on Skin Quality and Clinical Practice Trends in Asia Pacific and a Practical Guide to Good Skin Quality from the Inside Out.

Objective: We sought to examine the current skin quality trends and gaps in clinical practice in the Asia Pacific region and develop a practical guide to improve skin quality. Methods: Medical practitioners from 11 countries in the Asia Pacific region completed an online survey on current trends in skin quality treatment. A panel of 12 leading experts convened for a virtual meeting to develop a practical guide for skin quality improvement. Results: A total of 153 practitioners completed the survey. The four most common skin quality issues were uneven skin tone, skin surface unevenness, skin laxity, and sebaceous gland hyperactivity and enlarged pores. Most practitioners reported using a combination of treatment modalities for each skin quality issue. It was also observed that each treatment modality could be used to treat several skin quality issues. A multimodal approach targeting different interrelated issues across the tissue planes was recommended for balanced results. The panel developed a practical guide for the appropriate combinations and sequence of treatments, and created treatment protocols for specific skin quality outcome goals. The guide employed an "inside-out" approach, treating the deeper tissue planes prior to the superficial layers to achieve harmonious results. Limitations: Future studies are needed to support the recommended treatment protocols for skin quality improvement. Conclusion: These findings provide valuable insights on current skin quality trends and gaps in clinical practice. The practical guide provides a framework for practitioners to customize their treatment plan according to each patient's needs.

Impact of multi-leaf collimator positioning accuracy on quality control of volumetric modulation arc therapy plan for cervical cancer treated with Elekta linear accelerator / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the influence of positioning accuracy of the multi-leaf collimators (MLC) on the passing rate of the plan dose verification for volumetric modulation arc therapy (VMAT) of cervical cancer using an Elekta linear accelerator.@*METHODS@#The dose distributions were measured using Sun Nuclear's Mapcheck and Arccheck semiconductors matrix before and after MLC calibration in30 cervical cancer patients undergoing VMAT. Dosimetric comparisons were performed with 2D and 3D gamma passing rates of 3%, 3 mm and 2%, and 2 mm. The 3D gamma distribution was reconstructed with respect to the patient's anatomy using 3DVH software to evaluate the possible influence of MLC positioning accuracy.@*RESULTS@#Before and after MLC calibration, the gamma passing rates of Mapcheck were (88.80±1.81)% and (99.25 ± 0.53)% under 3% and 3 mm standard, respectively, with an average increase of 10.45%. The corresponding gamma passing rates of Arccheck were (87.61±1.98)% and (98.13±0.99)%, respectively, with an average increase of 10.52%. The gamma passing rates of 3DVH were (89.87±2.28)% and (98.3±1.15)%, respectively, with an average increase of 8.43%.@*CONCLUSION@#The MLC positioning accuracy is one of the main factors influencing dosimetric accuracy of VMAT for cervical cancer. The application of Autocal software facilitates MLC calibration and improves the accuracy and safety of VMAT delivery for cervical cancer.

Regulation of microRNA-126 on the polarization of human macrophages stimulated by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide / 中华口腔医学杂志

Objective: To study the effect of microRNA-126 (miR-126) on the polarization of human monocyte-derived macrophages stimulated by Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: Macrophages derived from human myeloid leukemia mononuclear cells were stimulated by Pg-LPS (5 mg/L) and by Pg-LPS (5 mg/L) after 24 h-transfection of miR-126 mimic or negative control RNA for 48 h, respectively. Real-time quantitative-PCR (qRT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blotting were conducted to detect the changes in miR-126, pro-inflammatory factor tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), anti-inflammatory factors interleukin-10 (IL-10), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), arginase-1 (Arg-1) and M1 polarization-related pathways such as nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Results: Compared with non-LPS stimulation group (TNF-α: 1.000±0.020, iNOS: 1.125±0.064, miR-126: 1.004±0.113, IL-10: 1.003±0.053, Arg-1: 1.130±0.061), the mRNA levels of TNF-α (3.105±0.278) and iNOS (4.296±0.003) increased significantly (t=6.53, P=0.003; t=42.63, P<0.001, respectively), while miR-126, IL-10 and Arg-1 expressions (0.451±0.038, 0.545±0.004 and 0.253±0.017) decreased significantly (t=7.95, P=0.001; t=7.36, P=0.002; t=11.94, P<0.001, respectively) after Pg-LPS stimulated by human-derived macrophages for 48 h. The protein expression of iNOS, TNF-α, Arg-1 and IL-10 were consistent at mRNA levels. Meanwhile, the expressions of phospho-NF-κB p65 (p-p65), phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) and phospho-p38 MAPK (p-p38) increased significantly, while the expression of Arg-1 decreased significantly. Compared with the negative controls (scramble RNA) (TNF-α: 1.141±0.197, iNOS: 1.173±0.115, IL-10: 1.032±0.138, Arg-1: 0.933±0.044), the mRNA levels of TNF-α (0.342±0.022) and iNOS (0.588±0.085) expressions significantly decreased (t=5.35, P=0.006; t=5.05, P=0.007), while IL-10 (1.786±0.221) and Arg-1 expressions (2.152±0.229) significantly increased (t=3.71, P=0.021; t=6.21, P=0.003) after Pg-LPS stimulation with miR-126 mimic transfection. The relative protein expressions of iNOS, p-p65, p-ERK and p-p38 significantly decreased (t=13.00, P<0.001; t=6.98, P=0.002; t=10.86, P<0.001; t=8.32, P=0.001), while the protein level of Arg-1 significantly increased (t=12.08, P<0.001). Conclusions: Pg-LPS could promote M1 polarization of macrophages. miR-126 might inhibit the effect of Pg-LPS on the M1 polarization of macrophages through down-regulating NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

Investigation and analysis of underground noise in Sichuan coal mines / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To understand the harm degree of underground noise and provide basis for noise control. Methods: In November 2019, 13 typical coal mines in Sichuan Province were selected as the research objects, and a total of 1203 sites and 609 jobs of noise exposure were investigated. Results: The noise intensity P75 >80 dB (A) was measured. The noise intensity of the inspection place of the air compressor is >86 dB (A) , the noise intensity of the inspection place of the gas drainage and the operation place of the main fan is between 80-85 dB (A) . Conclusion: Besides the harm of dust, noise exposure should also be paid attention to, and the measures of sound absorption and sound insulation should be taken or personal protection should be strengthened.

Baicalin treats cerebral ischemia reperfusion-induced brain edema in rats by inhibiting TRPV4 and AQP4 of astrocytes / 中国中药杂志

This study aims to explore the pharmacodynamic effect of baicalin on rat brain edema induced by cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury and discuss the mechanism from the perspective of inhibiting astrocyte swelling, which is expected to serve as a refe-rence for the treatment of cerebral ischemia with Chinese medicine. To be specific, middle cerebral artery occlusion(suture method) was used to induce cerebral ischemia in rats. Rats were randomized into normal group, model group, high-dose baicalin(20 mg·kg~(-1)) group, and low-dose baicalin(10 mg·kg~(-1)) group. The neurobehavior, brain index, brain water content, and cerebral infarction area of rats were measured 6 h and 24 h after cerebral ischemia. Brain slices were stained with hematoxylin and eosin(HE) for the observation of pathological morphology of cerebral cortex after baicalin treatment. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was employed to determine the content of total L-glutathione(GSH) and glutamic acid(Glu) in brain tissue, Western blot to measure the content of glial fibrillary acidic protein(GFAP), aquaporin-4(AQP4), and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4(TRPV4), and immunohistochemical staining to observe the expression of GFAP. The low-dose baicalin was used for exploring the mechanism. The experimental results showed that the neurobehavioral scores(6 h and 24 h of cerebral ischemia), brain water content, and cerebral infarction area of the model group were increased, and both high-dose and low-dose baicalin can lower the above three indexes. The content of GSH dropped but the content of Glu raised in brain tissue of rats in the model group. Low-dose baicalin can elevate the content of GSH and lower the content of Glu. According to the immunohistochemical staining result, the model group demonstrated the increase in GFAP expression, and swelling and proliferation of astrocytes, and the low-dose baicalin can significantly improve this situation. The results of Western blot showed that the expression of GFAP, TRPV4, and AQP4 in the cerebral cortex of the model group increased, and the low-dose baicalin reduce their expression. The cerebral cortex of rats in the model group was severely damaged, and the low-dose baicalin can significantly alleviate the damage. The above results indicate that baicalin can effectively relieve the brain edema caused by cerebral ischemia reperfusion injury in rats, possibly by suppressing astrocyte swelling and TRPV4 and AQP4.

Pan-Asian Consensus on Calcium Hydroxyapatite for Skin Biostimulation, Contouring, and Combination Treatments.

BACKGROUND: Several usage guidelines for calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), a dermal filler material, exist for non-Asian patients, making it necessary to determine whether their findings and consensuses are applicable to Asian patients who have distinct anatomies, cultural preferences, and aesthetic requests. OBJECTIVE: We sought to develop a Pan-Asian consensus on CaHA use in skin biostimulation, contouring, and combination treatments for face and body indications. METHODS: A survey on CaHA usage for contouring and biostimulation indications in Asian patients was conducted, followed by discussions to establish consensus statements and topics for examination. RESULTS: Several aspects of facial shaping and contouring or skin biostimulation with CaHA were agreed on, including that dilution is not a key consideration, that microfocused ultrasound with visualisation precedes CaHA in same day or session treatments, and that cannulas should be used. Among the many agreements on interventions in specific facial and body areas, there were also disagreements due to the diverse Asian patient presentations, requests, and access to tools or products; for example, CaHA should be placed in the interfascial layer for temple contouring, CaHA should not be injected directly into the infraorbital area for safety, and diluted CaHA should be injected subdermally for nonfacial or whole-face biostimulation and contouring. CONCLUSION: Our disagreements highlight the diversity of Asian facial morphotypes and desired aesthetic outcomes and underscore the need for customized aesthetic strategies to accommodate the heterogeneity of Asian anatomies, cultural preferences, and aesthetic ideals. Establishing consensus statements on critical aspects of Asian patient considerations, efficacy and safety, is crucial. This document provides strategic guidance on the use of classic, diluted CaHA for biostimulation or undiluted Radiesse®(+) (Merz Pharma GmbH & Co. KGaA, Frankfurt, Germany) for lifting and contouring to ensure consistent CaHA delivery for successful patient outcomes.

Consensus on the Use of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers from the Cohesive Polydensified Matrix Range: Best Practice in Specific Facial Indications.

BACKGROUND: As the treatment indications for the Cohesive Polydensified Matrix® hyaluronic acid (CPM-HA) portfolio continue to expand and diversify, injectors new to the range or those who are expanding the treatments they offer may be unsure of the optimal product and injection technique for specific facial areas. Each product in the CPM-HA portfolio has been intentionally designed to provide the best physical properties for a specific indication and target tissue. This document has been developed to provide a comprehensive, one-stop reference for clinicians using the portfolio. METHODS: An international panel of experts in the field of aesthetic medicine convened to develop guidelines on effective and safe injection technique when performing treatments with the CPM-HA range of soft-tissue fillers. RESULTS: Consensus members considered treatment indications in the upper, middle and lower face. Landmark deficiencies and anatomical considerations are described for each indication and consensus recommendations provided on the optimal product, injection depth and treatment technique. This is supplemented by the experts advice on avoidance of complications. Throughout, an evidence-based approach to selection of products and injection techniques is provided. The result is a fully tailored approach to a range of indications covering the full portfolio of CPM-HA products, including the newest addition for skin revitalization. CONCLUSION: The recommendations in this consensus document are provided to assist clinicians in the selection of CPM-HA products, administration techniques and depths of injection with the aim of providing seamless and natural treatment results, enhanced safety and patient satisfaction.

Comprehensive analysis of the cancer driver genes in breast cancer demonstrates their roles in cancer prognosis and tumor microenvironment.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women. Cancer driver gene-mediated alterations in the tumor microenvironment are critical factors affecting the biological behavior of breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to identify the expression characteristics and prognostic value of cancer driver genes in breast cancer. METHODS: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets are used as the training and test sets. Classified according to cancer and paracancerous tissues, we identified differentially expressed cancer driver genes. We further screened prognosis-associated genes, and candidate genes were submitted for the construction of a risk signature. Functional enrichment analysis and transcriptional regulatory networks were performed to search for possible mechanisms by which cancer driver genes affect breast cancer prognosis. RESULTS: We identified more than 200 differentially expressed driver genes and 27 prognosis-related genes. High-risk group patients had a lower survival rate compared to the low-risk group (P<0.05), and risk signature showed high specificity and sensitivity in predicting the patient prognosis (AUC 0.790). Multivariate regression analysis suggested that risk scores can independently predict patient prognosis. Further, we found differences in PD-1 expression, immune score, and stromal score among different risk groups. CONCLUSION: Our study confirms the critical prognosis role of cancer driver genes in breast cancer. The cancer driver gene risk signature may provide a novel biomarker for clinical treatment strategy and survival prediction of breast cancer.

Customized Treatment Using Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization for Optimized Patient Outcomes: A Review of Skin-tightening Energy Technologies and a Pan-Asian Adaptation of the Expert Panel's Gold Standard Consensus.

BACKGROUND: Noninvasive facial-rejuvenation devices, such as nonablative radiofrequency (RF) and laser-assisted technology, are increasingly replacing higher-risk surgeries for face and body skin laxity. OBJECTIVE: We sought to review published information on noninvasive energy device safety and efficacy in aesthetic skin tightening, compare these with our experiences in Asian patients, and disseminate a consensus for optimizing microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) in Asian patients. METHODS: A broad, nonexhaustive, nonsystematic literature search of published studies indexed in PubMed was performed to compare selected energy technologies to MFU-V for noninvasive face and body skin tightening, in particular, among Asian patients. This was supplemented with internal documents to provide evidence and support arguments if no peer-reviewed data were available. RESULTS: We highlighted the differences between devices and platforms and identified factors requiring attention and caution. Due to the increase in new devices lacking strong supporting clinical evidence of both safety and efficacy in Asia, it is necessary to convene physicians with substantial experience in MFU-V and devise a consensus on Asian patient selection, treatment planning, and customization. CONCLUSION: Many platforms duplicate or claim similar technologies, efficacy, or safety without significant peer-reviewed scientific or clinical evidence. We showed that MFU-V satisfies this clinical imperative. Further, the patented DeepSEE® technology allows users to noninvasively "see" through the skin to ensure treatment precision, facilitate optimal skin lifting and tightening, and enhance patient comfort and safety. Therefore, we believe that MFU-V is the gold standard for nonsurgical lifting and skin tightening.