Search

Objectives: To compare the facial asymmetry after bimaxillary surgery between mild craniofacial microsomia (CFM) and non-syndromic class II asymmetry. Materials and methods: Cone-beam computed tomography scans of adults with Pruzansky-Kaban types I and IIA CFM (CFM groups, n = 20), non-syndromic skeletal class II asymmetry (Class II group, n = 20), and normal controls (control group, n = 20) were compared. The area asymmetry of lower face and jaw bones was quantified. Landmark-based method was used to evaluate the lower facial asymmetry regarding midline, cants, and contour. Results: There were no significant postoperative differences in the hemi-facial and hemi-jaw area asymmetry between CFM and Class II groups, both of which were significantly larger than the control group. No significant difference was found in the midline deviation and lip and occlusal cants between CFM and Class II groups. The vertical contour asymmetry in CFM group became significantly larger than Class II group. Compared to the control group, the deviation of pronasale, subnasale, and soft-tissue menton, lip and occlusal cants, and sagittal and vertical contour asymmetry in CFM group were significantly larger, as were the deviation of subnasale and soft-tissue menton and vertical contour asymmetry in Class II group. Conclusions: The vertical contour asymmetry of mild CFM was significantly larger than non-CFM class II after surgery, while the area asymmetry, midline deviation, cants, and sagittal contour asymmetry of lower face showed no significant difference. Clinical relevance: Be aware that correcting vertical asymmetry of contour, lip, and dentition in CFM is still challenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radioactive nuclides cesium (Cs) and strontium (Sr) possess long half-lives, with 135Cs at approximately 2.3 million years and 87Sr at about 49 billion years. Their persistent accumulation can result in long-lasting radioactive contamination of soil ecosystems. This study employed geo-accumulation index (Igeo), pollution load index (PLI), potential ecological risk index (PEPI), health risk assessment model (HRA), and Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the pollution and health risks of Cs and Sr in the surface soil of different functional areas in a typical mining city in China. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) model was used to elucidate the potential sources of Cs and Sr and the respective contribution rates of natural and anthropogenic sources. The findings indicate that soils in the mining area exhibited significantly higher levels of Cs and Sr pollution compared to smelting factory area, agricultural area, and urban residential area. Strontium did not pose a potential ecological risk in any studied functional area. The non-carcinogenic health risk of Sr to the human body in the study area was relatively low. Because of the lack of parameters for Cs, the potential ecological and human health risks of Cs was not calculated. The primary source of Cs in the soil was identified as the parent material from which the soil developed, while Sr mainly originated from associated contamination caused by mining activities. This research provides data for the control of Cs and Sr pollution in the surface soil of mining city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Associations among cognitive ability, depressive symptoms, and psychological resilience have been found, but the interaction among these variables remains unclear, especially for young adults. The current study aimed to investigate how these variables interact in young adults. A total of 192 participants (97 female) with a mean age of 21.84 years (range 19–30 years) were analyzed for this study. Participants' cognitive ability was assessed by the Taiwanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Depressive status was evaluated by the revision of Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Participants with a score of 14 or above were defined as mild-to-severe-depressed (MSD). Otherwise, they were defined as minimal-depressed (MD). For the psychological resilience measurement, a Chinese version of the Resilience Scale for Adults (RSA) was used. Using linear regression adjusted for gender and age, this study found a significant interaction between cognitive ability, depressive status, and psychological resilience in young adults. Specifically, higher cognitive ability was linked to lower resilience in those with MSD, as indicated by a negative relationship (B = −6.519, p =.044). Conversely, in MD individuals, cognitive ability and resilience showed no significant correlation. These findings suggested that depressive status significantly modulates how cognitive ability impacts psychological resilience, emphasizing the importance of customizing mental health interventions based on individual cognitive and emotional profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To examine the predictive value of dual-layer spectral detector CT (DLCT) for spread through air spaces (STAS) in clinical lung adenocarcinoma. Methods: A total of 225 lung adenocarcinoma cases were retrospectively reviewed for demographic, clinical, pathological, traditional CT, and spectral parameters. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out based on three logistic models, including a model using traditional CT features (traditional model), a model using spectral parameters (spectral model), and an integrated model combining traditional CT and spectral parameters (integrated model). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) were performed to assess these models. Results: Univariable analysis showed significant differences between the STAS and non-STAS groups in traditional CT features, including nodule density (p < 0.001), pleural indentation types (p = 0.006), air-bronchogram sign (p = 0.031), the presence of spiculation (p < 0.001), long-axis diameter of the entire nodule (LD) (p < 0.001), and consolidation/tumor ratio (CTR) (p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed that LD > 20 mm (odds ratio [OR] = 2.271, p = 0.025) and CTR (OR = 24.208, p < 0.001) were independent predictors in the traditional model, while electronic density (ED) in the venous phase was an independent predictor in the spectral (OR = 1.062, p < 0.001) and integrated (OR = 1.055, p < 0.001) models. The area under the curve (AUC) for the integrated model (0.84) was the highest (spectral model, 0.83; traditional model, 0.80), and the difference between the integrated and traditional models was statistically significant (p = 0.015). DCA showed that the integrated model had superior clinical value versus the traditional model. Conclusions: DLCT has added value for STAS prediction in lung adenocarcinoma. Clinical relevance statement: Spectral CT has added value for spread through air spaces prediction in lung adenocarcinoma so may impact treatment planning in the future. Key Points: • Electronic density may be a potential spectral index for predicting spread through air spaces in lung adenocarcinoma. • A combination of spectral and traditional CT features enhances the performance of traditional CT for predicting spread through air spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The study aimed (1) to evaluate the site and severity of facial asymmetry in Class III patients before and after bimaxillary surgery, and (2) to identify the influence of initial severity and positional jaw asymmetry on residual facial asymmetry. Materials and methods: Preoperative and postoperative cone-beam computed tomography of 65 patients with Class III facial asymmetry who underwent bimaxillary surgery were evaluated. Five midline and 14 paramedian facial soft tissue landmarks were identified to assess facial asymmetry. The outcomes were compared to a control group consisting of 30 age- and gender-matched Class I subjects. The postoperative positional jaw asymmetry (i.e., shift, roll, yaw) of each osteotomy segment (maxilla, mandible, chin, ramus) was also measured. Results: Before surgery, the asymmetry was more severe at the chin, middle and lower contour. Bimaxillary surgery effectively corrected facial asymmetry, particularly in achieving normalization of chin deviation. However, significant asymmetry persisted postoperatively in the middle and lower contour (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively), which was affected by the positional ramus asymmetry in the roll and shift. Conclusions: Deviation of the chin, middle and lower contour contributed significantly to overall facial asymmetry in Class III asymmetry. Despite normalization of the chin deviation after bimaxillary surgery, asymmetry persisted at the middle and lower contour, primarily as the result of insufficient correction of the positional ramus asymmetry. Clinical relevance: Understanding the residual asymmetry after bimaxillary surgery is important for minimizing deviation and optimizing the surgical planning for its correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Segmental Le Fort I osteotomy through the cleft is a common strategy to narrow the alveolar cleft in adults. This study compared skeletal stability between single and segmental Le Fort I osteotomies in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP). Materials and methods: This retrospective analysis examined 45 adults with complete UCLP-associated class III deformities who underwent bimaxillary surgery with either single (n = 30) or segmental (n = 15) Le Fort I advancement. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of the facial skeleton were acquired before surgery, 1-week postsurgery, and at follow-up. Measures of landmarks from the CBCT images for the two treatment groups were compared for translation (left/right, posterior/anterior, superior/inferior) and rotation (yaw, roll, pitch). Results: Postsurgery, the downward movement of the maxilla was larger in the segmental group than the single group. At follow-up, the maxilla moved backward in both groups, and upward in the segmental group. The mandible moved forward and upward and rotated upward in both groups. The amount of upward movement and rotation was larger in the segmental group than the single group. Conclusions: Two years after bimaxillary surgery in patients with UCLP-associated class III deformity, greater relapse was found after segmental Le Fort I osteotomies in vertical translation of the maxilla and mandible, and pitch rotation of the mandible compared with single Le Fort I osteotomies. Clinical relevance: The vertical relapse of the maxilla was larger after segmental Le Fort I advancement compared with single Le Fort I advancement in clefts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the low-order modeling of collective dynamics in a can-annular combustor consisting of four ring-coupled turbulent lean-premixed combustors. Each combustor is treated as an individual thermoacoustic oscillator, and the entire combustion system is modeled using four Van der Pol oscillators ring-coupled with dissipative, time-delay, and reactive coupling terms. We show that this model, despite its simplicity, can reproduce many collective dynamics observed in experiments under various combinations of equivalence ratios and combustor lengths, such as 2-can anti-phase synchronization, alternating anti-phase synchronization, pairwise anti-phase synchronization, spinning azimuthal mode, and 4 steady thermoacoustic oscillators. The phase relationship in the majority of cases can be quantitatively modeled. Moreover, by incorporating a reactive coupling term, the model is able to reproduce the frequency shift observed experimentally. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using a simple low-order model to reproduce collective dynamics in complex turbulent combustion systems. This suggests that this model could be used (i) to facilitate the interpretation of experimental data within the synchronization framework, (ii) to identify potential parameter regimes leading to amplitude death, and (iii) to serve as a basis for modeling the collective dynamics observed in more complicated multi-combustors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dissemination of bismuth (Bi) into the environment has become a significant concern due to its wide application. The low-cost orange peel was used as a bio-sorbent to remove Bi from water. Influence of pH (4 ~ 12), biochar dosage (5 ~ 12.5 g L–1), temperature (25 ~ 55 °C), and coexisting ions (Mg2+ and Zn2+) on Bi adsorption were investigated. The removal rate was 91.90% when 10 g L–1 adsorbent was added at 25 °C in 40 mL Bi solution with an initial concentration of 50 mg L–1. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model could better describe the adsorption process than pseudo-first-order model, demonstrating that the adsorption of Bi by the orange peel biochar was predominantly chemisorption. Analytical techniques such as SEM, FTIR, XRD, and XPS indicated that the adsorption mechanism concerned electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, π-π electron donor–acceptor interaction, – OH and – COOH complexation, and pore filling. Orange peel biochar demonstrated a sustained performance, maintaining over 65% removal efficiency for Bi after three regeneration cycles. Orange peel biochar has a good application prospect as a cost-effective bio-sorbent for the treatment of Bi removal from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Successful orthognathic surgery requires accurate transfer of the intraoperative surgical plan. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the surgical error of a novel intermediate splint in positioning the maxilla during maxilla-first orthognathic surgery and (2) determine factors influencing surgical error. Materials and methods: This prospective study examined 83 patients who consecutively underwent Le Fort I osteotomy for correction of skeletal class III deformity using a novel intermediate splint and a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy. Surgical error was the outcome variable, measured as the difference in postoperative translational and rotational maxillary position from the virtual plan. Measures included asymmetry, need and amount for mandibular opening during fabrication of intermediate splints, and planned and achieved skeletal movement. Results: Mean errors in translation for vertical, sagittal, and transversal dimensions were 1.0 ± 0.7 mm, 1.0 ± 0.6 mm, and 0.7 ± 0.6 mm, respectively; degrees in rotation for yaw, roll, and pitch were 0.8 ± 0.6, 0.6 ± 0.4, and 1.6 ± 1.1, respectively. The transverse error was smaller than sagittal and vertical errors; error for pitch was larger than roll and yaw (both p < 0.001). Error for sagittal, transverse, and roll positioning was affected by the achieved skeletal movement (roll, p < 0.05; pitch and yaw, p < 0.001). Surgical error of pitch positioning was affected by planned and achieved skeletal movement (both p < 0.001). Conclusions: Using the novel intermediate splint when performing Le Fort I osteotomy allowed for accurate positioning of the maxilla. Clinical relevance: The novel intermediate splint for maxillary positioning can be reliably used in clinical routines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emotional labor has been a focal point in occupational well-being literature, but studies have long overlooked an important group of emotional laborers: performers. This research represents a pioneering effort to examine dancers' adoption of emotional labor strategies, their antecedent of self-consciousness, and the outcome of flow experience. We explored these elements both in the traditional setting of stage dancing and in the novel context of online dance classes without on-site spectators during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results revealed that dancers employed all three common emotional labor strategies: surface acting, deep acting, and expression of naturally felt emotions, with deep acting being the most frequent. In the traditional setting, only the expression of naturally felt emotions mediated the positive effect of private self-consciousness and the negative effect of public self-consciousness on flow experience. In contrast, in the online setting, only private self-consciousness impacted flow through the mediation of deep acting and expression of naturally felt emotions. This exploratory study bridges dramaturgy-originated theories of emotional labor with empirical performing arts research, preliminarily advancing knowledge in the relevant fields of dance education, self-presentation, and flow studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pineal region tumors (PRTs) are tumors arising from the pineal gland and the paraspinal structures. These tumors are rare and heterogeneous that account for 2.8–10.1% and 0.6–3.2% of tumors in children and in all ages, respectively. Almost all types and subtypes of CNS tumors may be diagnosed in this region. These tumors come from cells of the pineal gland (pinealocytes and neuroglial cells), ectopic primordial germ cells (PGC), and cells from adjacent structures. Hence, PRTs are consisted of pineal parenchyma tumors (PPTs), germ cell tumors (GCTs), neuroepithelial tumors (NETs), other miscellaneous types of tumors, cystic tumors (epidermoid, dermoid), and pineal cyst in addition. The symptoms of PRTs correlate to the increased intracranial cranial pressure due to obstructive hydrocephalus and dorsal midbrain compression. The diagnostic imaging studies are mainly MRI of brain (with and without gadolinium) along with a sagittal view of whole spine. Serum and/or CSF AFP/β-HCG helps to identify GCTs. The treatment of PRTs is consisted of the selection of surgical biopsy/resection, handling of hydrocephalus, neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant therapy according to age, tumor location, histopathological/molecular classification, grading of tumors, staging, and threshold value of markers (for GCTs) in addition. Methods: In this article, we review the following focus points: 1. Background of pineal region tumors. 2. Pineal GCTs and evolution of management. 3. Molecular study for GCTs and pineal parenchymal tumors. 4. Review of surgical approaches to the pineal region. 5. Contribution of endoscopy. 6. Adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and combination). 7. Future direction. Results: In all ages, the leading three types of PRTs in western countries were PPTs (22.7–34.8%), GCTs (27.3–34.4%), and NETs (17.2–28%). In children and young adults, the leading PRTs were invariably in the order of GCTs (40–80.5%), PPTs (7.6–21.6%), NETs (2.4–37.5%). Surgical biopsy/resection of PRTs is important for precision diagnosis and therapy. Safe resection with acceptable low mortality and morbidity was achieved after 1970s because of the advancement of surgical approaches, CSF shunt and valve system, microscopic and endoscopic surgery. Following histopathological diagnosis and classification of types and subtypes of PRTs, in PPTs, through molecular profiling, four molecular groups of pineoblastoma (PB) and their oncogenic driver were identified. Hence, molecular stratified precision therapy can be achieved. Conclusion: Modern endoscopic and microsurgical approaches help to achieve precise histopathological diagnosis and molecular classification of different types and subtypes of pineal region tumors for risk-stratified optimal, effective, and protective therapy. In the future, molecular analysis of biospecimen (CSF and blood) along with AI radiomics on tumor imaging integrating clinical and bioinformation may help for personalized and risk-stratified management of patients with pineal region tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel series of SO42−/ZnAl2O4–ZrO2 composite solid acids for efficient synthesis of green biodiesel via the typical esterification reaction of oleic acid with methanol were prepared by a simple sol–gel-impregnation method. Their structures and acid properties were studied by means of XRD, FE-SEM, TG, NH3-TPD, XPS, FT-IR, NH3 adsorption FT-IR spectra and acid–base titration. The experimental results revealed that the addition of ZnAl2O4 was successfully achieved to stabilize the active tetragonal phase of ZrO2 in SO42−/ZnAl2O4–ZrO2 composite solid acids. Both ZnAl2O4 and ZrO2 acted as active components and participated in the formation of active acid center structure for SO42−/ZnAl2O4–ZrO2 composite solid acids. As a result, the comprehensive acidic properties of SO42−/ZnAl2O4–ZrO2 composite solid acids were effectively regulated by the mass ratio of ZnAl2O4 to ZrO2. Among them, SO42−/ZnAl2O4–ZrO2 (8:2) exhibited the highest catalytic activity and the better reusability in the esterification reaction of oleic acid with methanol, which might be ascribed to its supreme number of acid sites, its excellent structural stability and its better stability of the surface active sites. The kinetic and thermodynamic analysis demonstrated that SO42−/ZnAl2O4–ZrO2 (8:2) composite solid acid could effectively catalyze the synthesis of green biodiesel because of its relatively lower values of activation energy in the esterification reaction of oleic acid with methanol. The inevitable loss of sulfate species on the surface of SO42−/ZnAl2O4–ZrO2 (8:2) might be one of the major reasons for its slight deactivation during acid catalyzed esterification reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Gingivoperiosteoplasty is often used for reconstruction of alveolar defects in infants with cleft lip and palate. This study aimed to examine outcomes of tertiary gingivoperiosteoplasty, which has not previously been investigated. Materials and methods: This prospective study included 11 adults with complete cleft lip and palate (n = 12 sites) who consecutively underwent segmental Le Fort I osteotomy and concomitant gingivoperiosteoplasty for correction of skeletal class III deformity, nasoalveolar fistula and alveolar cleft. Outcomes included clinical and radiographic evaluations of gingivoperiosteoplasty at the time of osteotomy (presence of nasoalveolar fistula, residual cleft defect and unsupported root ratio of cleft-adjacent teeth), and determination of influencing factors for the clinical success of alveolar cleft repair. Study variables included age, gender, pre-surgical orthodontic treatment and alveolar cleft width of cleft-adjacent canine and angulation between cleft-adjacent teeth before surgery and 1-week postsurgery. Results: Posttreatment, no nasoalveolar fistula remained. The residual cleft defect decreased significantly (p < 0.01). The unsupported root ratio of cleft-adjacent teeth did not differ (p > 0.05); eight cleft sites reached Bergland I or II (67% success). One-week postsurgery, the minimal alveolar cleft width of cleft-adjacent canine was significantly less in the success group compared with the failed group (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Tertiary gingivoperiosteoplasty and segmental Le Fort I osteotomy decreased nasoalveolar fistulas and induced alveolar bone formation. The minimal alveolar cleft width immediately after surgery was the major influencing factor of clinical success. Clinical relevance: Segmental Le Fort I osteotomy with simultaneous gingivoperiosteoplasty efficaciously repairs adult alveolar clefts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL), the most common childhood cancer, originates from lymphoid precursor cells in bone marrow committed to the B-cell lineage. Environmental factors and genetic abnormalities disturb the normal maturation of these precursor cells, promoting the formation of leukemia cells and suppressing normal hematopoiesis. The underlying mechanisms of progression are unclear, but BCP-ALL incidence seems to be increasing in parallel with the adoption of modern lifestyles. This study hypothesized that air pollution and haze are risk factors for BCP-ALL progression. The current study revealed that indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene (IP), a major component of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in air, promotes oncogenic activities (proliferation, transformation, and disease relapse) in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, IP treatment activated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)–indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDOs) axis, thereby enhancing tryptophan metabolism and kynurenine (KYN) level and consequent promoting the KYN–AHR feedback loop. IP treatment decreased the time to disease relapse and increased the BCP-ALL cell count in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model. Additionally, in 50 clinical BCP-ALL samples, AHR and IDO were co-expressed in a disease-specific manner at mRNA and protein levels, while their mRNA levels showed a significant correlation with disease-free survival duration. These results indicated that PAH/IP exposure promotes BCP-ALL disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peace of mind (PoM) is an index of mental health in Asian culture and emphasizes low arousal, happiness, harmony, and an internal state of peacefulness. While previous studies have found that mindful self-awareness can contribute to PoM, regular physical activity (PA) is also an important factor contributing to one's PoM due to its function in promoting one's resilience. The study aims to investigate a hypothetical model that assumes PA is associated with resilience while controlling for mindful self-awareness, contributing to PoM. The PoM scale, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Chinese translation of Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and PA self-report questionnaire were used. A path analysis was applied to test the association between these variables and the mediating role of resilience. A total of 436 students from a university in Taiwan were recruited; the mean age was 20.87, with 46.3% female and 73.6% engaging in over 150 min/week of moderate PA. Gender and age negatively correlated with PA. After controlling for age and gender, there was no direct effect of physical activity on PoM; both mindful self-awareness and PA predict resilience, which in turn predicts PoM, suggesting that both cognitive (i.e., mindful self-awareness) and PA are important to cultivate resilience and thus PoM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A distributed surface sliding discharge with a duration of 500 ns in supersonic air flows with an oblique shock wave had been experimentally studied. The Mach numbers of the flows were 1.18–1.68, the density was 0.02–0.45 kg/m3. The discharge was initiated in a single pulse mode. With a voltage of 25 kV, the discharge current was about 1 kA. It is shown that the discharge current, as well as the spatio-temporal characteristics of the radiation depend on the parameters of the local rarefaction zone in the boundary layer. In a stationary flow with an oblique shock wave, the discharge is generated as a single channel. Analysis of high-speed shadowgraphy of the flow after discharge showed that a single discharge channel generates a semi-cylindrical shock wave. The purpose of the work was to study the motion of the shock wave generated from the discharge under different conditions of supersonic flow. Comparison of the experimental dynamic of the shock wave with the results of numerical modelling of the flow based on the non-stationary Navier–Stokes equations showed that the value of the thermal energy released in the discharge channel is 0.15–0.36 J. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid widespread concerns about the mental health of teenagers, this quasi-experimental study examines the effects of a classroom humor intervention on 268 seventh graders' positive emotions, as well as their sense of humor and language ability. The participants completed self-report measures and a language exam before and after the intervention, which lasted six weeks. Analysis of covariance and mediation analysis were used to evaluate the effects. The results supported the researchers' hypotheses that the humor intervention would significantly increase learners' positive emotions, sense of humor, and language ability. The mediation analysis revealed that sense of humor mediated the relationship between the humor intervention and positive emotions, and that neither sense of humor nor positive emotion was the sole factor contributing to the observed learning gains. The study concludes that the intervention helped foster a learner-friendly environment in which the participants increased their positive emotions, sense of humor and language ability simultaneously, and makes recommendations for practitioners and future researchers on that basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the impact of an electronic medical record management system (EMRMS) on disease activity and the frequency of outpatient visits among patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). We identified 652 patients with AS who were followed up for at least 1 year before and after the first Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) assessment and compared the number of outpatient visits and average visit time within 1 year before and after the initial ASDAS assessment. Finally, we analyzed 201 patients with AS who had complete data and received ≥ 3 continuous ASDAS assessments at an interval of 3 months, and we compared the results of the second and third ASDAS assessments with those of the first. The number of annual outpatient visits increased after ASDAS assessment (4.0 (4.0, 7.0) vs. 4.0 (4.0, 8.0), p < 0.001), particularly among those with a high initial disease activity. The average visit time was reduced within 1 year after ASDAS assessment (6.4 (8.5, 11.2) vs. 6.3 (8.3, 10.8) min, p = 0.073), especially among patients whose with an inactive disease activity was < 1.3 (ASDAS C-reactive protein (CRP) 6.7 (8.8, 11.1) vs. 6.1 (8.0, 10.3) min, p = 0.033; ASDAS erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) 6.4 (8.7, 11.1) vs. 6.1 (8.1, 10.0) min, p = 0.027). Among patients who received at least three ASDAS assessments, the third ASDAS-CRP tended to be lower than the first (1.5 (0.9, 2.1) vs. 1.4 (0.8, 1.9), p = 0.058). The use of an EMRMS increased the frequency of ambulatory visits among AS patients with high and very high disease activity and reduced the visit time among those with an inactive disease. Continual ASDAS assessments may help control the disease activity of patients with AS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suppressing the chain transfer reactions during polymerization in late-transition metal-catalyzed olefin polymerization systems is the key to obtaining high molecular weight polyolefin materials. In this work, two efficient strategies ("sandwich" and rotation-restricted strategies) to retard chain transfer reactions in ethylene (co)polymerization were employed for the iminopyridyl system. Herein, a family of iminopyridyl Ni(II) and Pd(II) complexes with a flexible backbone and rigid axial bulky aryl substituents were designed, synthesized and characterized. In ethylene polymerization, the iminopyridyl Ni(II) and Pd(II) catalysts using the two strategies exhibited reasonable activities and generated highly branched polyethylenes with high molecular weights, where catalysts with dibenzosuberyl substituents exhibited significantly higher activities and produced higher molecular weight polyethylene than catalysts with 8-arylnaphthalenyl substituent. A similar trend of activities and molecular weights was also found in the copolymerization of ethylene with MA using the Pd(II) catalysts. Moreover, highly branched E-MA copolymers with moderate to high molecular weights and high incorporation ratios (up to 17.4 mol%) were generated with the two Pd(II) catalysts. Most interestingly, as compared with the dibenzhydryl Ni(II) and Pd(II) catalysts, the catalysts using the two strategies exhibited a superior ability to retard the chain transfer reactions and generated polymers and copolymers with 1–2 orders of magnitude higher molecular weights during ethylene (co)polymerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate thrombus age and its association with clinical and procedural parameters in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to anterior circulation occlusions. Methods: The thrombi of 107 consecutive AIS patients with occlusions in anterior circulation large-arteries were collected during mechanical recanalization. By hematoxylin–eosin staining analysis, thrombi were classified as fresh (< 3 days) or old (≥ 3 days) according to the hemosiderin positivity. Old thrombi were further classified as thrombi with focal hemosiderin or diffuse hemosiderin according to their predominant distribution. Neuro-interventional data and clinical outcomes were compared based on thrombus age. Results: We identified fresh thrombi in 29 patients and old thrombi in 78 patients. Compared with patients with fresh thrombi, patients with old thrombi were associated with (i) a longer mechanical recanalization time (p = 0.027), (ii) a higher percentage of fibrin/platelets and leukocytes (all p = 0.02) and a lower percentage of erythrocytes (p = 0.001), and (iii) less favorable clinical outcomes at discharge (p = 0.019) and 90 days later (OR = 2.76, 95% CI = 1.09–6.99, p = 0.032). Furthermore, 18 (16.8%) of all patients had focal hemosiderin in old thrombi, which was independently linked to a poor clinical outcome 90 days later (adjusted OR = 5.37, 95% CI = 1.14–25.28, p = 0.034). Conclusion: The presence of old thrombi, particularly those with focal hemosiderin, may aid in identifying patients with acute ischemic anterior circulation stroke who are at a higher risk of poor clinical outcome at 3-month follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a hetero-nano-fin structure to further improve the efficiency of Pancharatnam–Berry phase metasurfaces. Two hetero-nano-fin types, MgF2/GaN and MgF2/Nb2O5, were investigated. The overall polarization conversion efficiency (PCE) improved from 52.7 to 54% for the MgF2/GaN nano-fin compared with the bare GaN nano-fin. The overall PCE of the Nb2O5 nano-fin was 1.7 times higher than that of the GaN nano-fin. The overall PCE improved from 92.4% up to 96% after the application of MgF2 antireflection. Moreover, the antireflection improves efficiency by an average of 4.3% in wavelengths from 450 to 700 nm. Although the increment of energy seems minimal, antireflection is crucial for a metasurface, not only enhancing efficiency but also reducing background signal of a meta-device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the cost efficiency (CE), technology gap ratio (TGR), and overall cost efficiency (OCE) of 43 banks and 27 life insurance companies operating in Taiwan. The use of the copula method to derive the joint probability density function for the cost functions of financial holding banks (FHBs) and financial holding life insurers (FHLIs) allows us to take into account the operational synergies enjoyed by the financial holding companies. Our empirical results are as follows. (1) A significant, positive correlation exists between the cost efficiencies of FHBs and FHLIs, supporting that both types of firms benefit from the synergy effect. (2) The omission of synergy effects leads to underestimated measures of CE and OCE for FHBs, but leaves the measure of TGR intact. (3) The absence of synergies results in underestimating the CE scores for FHLIs, but the TGRs of FHLIs and non-FHLIs are overestimated, exaggerating the OCE scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to determine if robotic surgery can reproduce the technical advantages and oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of locally advanced colorectal cancer invading the urinary bladder. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the prospectively maintained data of patients with locally advanced colorectal cancer invading the urinary bladder undergoing robotic or laparoscopic surgery between June 2006 and November 2020. Clinicopathologic features, surgical outcomes, and oncologic efficacy were compared between patient groups of robotic or laparoscopic surgery. All patients underwent surgery with the intent of R0 resection for the primary tumor. Major surgical complications were defined as Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ III. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors. Results: A total of 41 patients (M:F = 32:9; median age: 63 [42–88] years) were analysed; 32 underwent laparoscopic surgery and 9 underwent robotic surgery. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in baseline demographic and clinicopathologic features. There were no significant differences in terms of mean operative time (353.24 vs. 387.33 min), mean blood loss (315.00 vs. 171.11 mL), mean number of lymph nodes harvested (27.16 vs. 23.50), R0 resection (89.7 vs. 66.7%), conversion (12.5 vs. 11.1%), major complication rate (9.4 vs. 22.2%), mean time to flatus passage (4.8 vs. 4.1 days), mean postoperative length of hospital stay (18.9 vs. 19.8 days), 5-year disease-free survival rate (64.6 vs. 62.5%) and overall survival rate (75.3 vs. 83.3%). Multivariate analysis showed that R1 resection was the only independent prognostic factor for reduced disease-free survival (hazard ratio 21.386; 95% confidence interval 1.991–229.723; p = 0.0115). Conclusions: Robotic surgery can reproduce the technical advantages and oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of locally advanced colorectal cancer invading the urinary bladder. However, larger studies are mandatory to clarify the role of robotic surgery in such a scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reported the cloning, expression, and characterization of a new salt-tolerant leucine dehydrogenase (PrLeuDH) from Pseudoalteromonas rubra DSM 6842. A codon-optimized 1038 bp gene encoding PrLeuDH was successfully expressed on pET-22b(+) in E. coli BL21(DE3). The purified recombinant PrLeuDH showed a single band of about 38.7 kDa on SDS-PAGE. It exhibited the maximum activity at 40 °C and pH 10.5, while kept high activities in the range of 25–45 °C and pH 9.5–12. The Km value and turnover number kcat for leucine of PrLeuDH were 2.23 ± 0.12 mM and 35.39 ± 0.05 s−1, respectively, resulting in a catalytic efficiency kcat/Km of 15.87 s−1/mM. Importantly, PrLeuDH remained 92.1 ± 2.67% active in the presence of 4.0 M NaCl. The study provides the first in-depth understanding of LeuDH from marine Pseudoalteromonas rubra, meanwhile the unique properties of high activity at low temperature and high salt tolerance make it a promising biocatalyst for the synthesis of non-protein amino acids and α-ketoacids under special conditions in pharmaceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WC–6% Co cemented carbides with decarbonization phases have been prepared by traditional powder metallurgy. The effect of the carbon content near the decarbonization boundary on the microstructure and mechanical properties of WC–6% Co cemented carbides was systematically studied. XRD results indicate that the content of the decarbonization phase increases with decreasing carbon content. The WC–6% Co cemented carbides with lower carbon content have a finer grain size of WC. The magnetic coercivity and hardness of the samples increase with decreasing grain size. The cobalt magnetic and transverse rupture strength decrease as the content of the decarbonization phase increases due to the decrease in carbon content. WC–6% Co cemented carbides with excellent abrasive resistance and no significant reduction in transverse rupture strength were obtained by finer grains and decarbonization phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Surgery-first orthognathic surgery is rarely used in class III asymmetry due to concerns of reduced skeletal stability from unstable surgical occlusion. This study aimed to evaluate if skeletal stability after surgery-first orthognathic surgery is related to virtual surgical occlusal contact or surgical change. Materials and methods: We studied 58 adults with class III asymmetry, consecutively corrected by Le Fort I osteotomy and bilateral sagittal split osteotomy using a surgery-first approach. Dental casts were manually set to measure virtual surgical occlusal contact including contact distribution, contact number, and contact area. Cone-beam computed tomography taken before treatment, 1-week post-surgery, and after treatment was used to measure surgical change and post-surgical stability of the maxilla and mandible in translation (left/right, posterior/anterior, superior/inferior) and rotation (pitch, roll, yaw). The relationship between skeletal stability and surgical occlusal contact or surgical change was evaluated with correlation analysis. Results: Significant instability was found in the mandible but not in the maxilla. No correlation was found between the maxillary or mandibular stability and surgical occlusal contact (all p > 0.01). However, a significant correlation was found between the maxillary (roll and yaw) or mandibular (shift, roll and pitch) stability and its surgical change (all p < 0.001). Conclusions: In correction of class III asymmetry with surgery-first bimaxillary surgery, the skeletal stability is not related to the virtual surgical occlusal contact, but surgical skeletal change. Clinical relevance: Planned over-correction is a reasonable option for correction of severe shift or roll mandibular asymmetry in bimaxillary surgery for class III deformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research introduces a new path planning method for rescue robots in a dynamic and partially known area when the robots are performing tasks in a large area. The path planning of the rescue robots that move in the dynamic area is introduced to solve the issue of unnecessary areas, which are the disadvantages of the existing D*-based algorithms. This paper proposes a method to eliminate unnecessary expanded nodes of the dynamic and partially known environment by segmenting a map with an auto-clustering algorithm, which is able to achieve a faster execution time than conventional algorithms. Furthermore, to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms, an expected value of re-planned nodes in the dynamic and partially known area is introduced using a probability-based approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intestinal hormone and neuromodulator cholecystokinin (CCK) receptors CCK1R and CCK2R act as a signaling hub in brain–gut axis, mediating digestion, emotion, and memory regulation. CCK receptors exhibit distinct preferences for ligands in different posttranslational modification (PTM) states. CCK1R couples to Gs and Gq, whereas CCK2R primarily couples to Gq. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of CCK1R–Gs signaling complexes liganded either by sulfated cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) or a CCK1R-selective small-molecule SR146131, and CCK2R–Gq complexes stabilized by either sulfated CCK-8 or a CCK2R-selective ligand gastrin-17. Our structures reveal a location-conserved yet charge-distinct pocket discriminating the effects of ligand PTM states on receptor subtype preference, the unique pocket topology underlying selectivity of SR146131 and gastrin-17, the conformational changes in receptor activation, and key residues contributing to G protein subtype specificity, providing multiple structural templates for drug design targeting the brain–gut axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare the characteristics of mandibular asymmetry in patients with unilateral craniofacial microsomia (CFM) and class II asymmetry. Materials and methods: Pretreatment cone-beam computed tomography of consecutive adults with Pruzansky-Kaban type I and IIA CFM (CFM group) was analyzed by 3D cephalometry. Fourteen mandibular landmarks and two dental landmarks were identified. The mandibular size and positional asymmetry were calculated by using landmark-based linear and volumetric measurements, in terms of asymmetry ratios (affected/non-affected side) and absolute differences (affected − non-affected side). Results were compared with non-syndromic class II with matched severity of chin deviation (Class II group). Statistical analyses included independent t test, paired t test, chi-square test, and ANOVA. Results: CFM group (n, 21; mean age, 20.4 ± 2.5 years) showed significantly larger size asymmetry in regions of mandibular body, ramus, and condyle compared to Class II group (n, 21; mean age, 27.8 ± 5.9 years) (p < 0.05). The curvature of mandibular body was asymmetric in CFM. Regarding the positional asymmetry of mandibular body, while a comparable transverse shift and a negligible yaw rotation were found among the two groups, the roll rotation in CFM was significantly greater as well as the occlusal (6.06° vs. 4.17°) and mandibular (7.84° vs. 2.80°) plane cants (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Mild CFM showed significantly more severe size asymmetry and roll rotation in mandible than non-CFM class II asymmetry. Clinical relevance: To improve the mandibular size and positional asymmetry in CFM, adjunct hard tissue augmentation or reduction in addition to OGS orthodontics with a meticulous roll and yaw planning is compulsory, which is expected to be distinct from treating non-CFM class II asymmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic dimensions based on particles' internal degrees of freedom, such as frequency, spatial modes and arrival time, have attracted significant attention. They offer ideal large-scale lattices to simulate nontrivial topological phenomena. Exploring more synthetic dimensions is one of the paths toward higher dimensional physics. In this work, we design and experimentally control the coupling among synthetic dimensions consisting of the intrinsic photonic orbital angular momentum and spin angular momentum degrees of freedom in a degenerate optical resonant cavity, which generates a periodically driven spin-orbital coupling system. We directly characterize the system's properties, including the density of states, energy band structures and topological windings, through the transmission intensity measurements. Our work demonstrates a mechanism for exploring the spatial modes of twisted photons as the synthetic dimension, which paves the way to design rich topological physics in a highly compact platform. Tailoring topological physics in optical cavity is a challenge that would allow new possibilities for the design optical components. In this paper, the authors, harnessing the potential of synthetic dimensions, experimentally demonstrate a degenerate cavity containing many optical angular momenta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Some adults with cleft lip and palate (CLP) require orthognathic surgery due to skeletal deformity. This prospective study aimed to (1) compare skeletal stability following bimaxillary surgery for correction of class III deformity between patients with unilateral CLP (UCLP) and bilateral CLP (BCLP), and (2) identify risk factors of stability. Materials and methods: Adults with CLP and skeletal class III deformities who underwent surgery-first bimaxillary surgery were divided into two groups according to cleft type: UCLP (n = 30) and BCLP (n = 30). Skeletal stability was assessed with measures from cone beam computed tomography images of the maxilla and mandible taken before treatment, 1-week and ≥ 1 year postsurgery for translation (left/right, posterior/anterior, superior/inferior) and rotation (yaw, roll, pitch); multiple regression analysis examined risk factors. Results: At follow-up, the maxilla moved upwards in both groups, and backwards in the UCLP group. The mandible moved forward and upward, shifted to the cleft (deviated) side, and rotated upward in both groups. The amount of surgical advancement was a risk factor for sagittal stability in the maxilla (ß = −0.14, p < 0.05). The mandible had three risk factors for sagittal stability: age (ß = −0.23, p < 0.05), surgical team (ß = −1.83, p < 0.05), and amount of surgical setback (ß = −0.32, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Two years after bimaxillary surgery, patients with UCLP had a higher sagittal relapse of the maxilla compared with patients with BCLP, which was due to a greater surgical advancement in the patients with UCLP. Clinical relevance: Surgery-first bimaxillary surgery results in favorable treatment outcomes for correction of cleft-related class III deformity. Severity of jaw discrepancy and surgeons should be considered in the surgical design of overcorrection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) is an effective short-term treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study aimed to evaluate the long-term stability of the facial skeleton, upper airway, and its surrounding structures, as well as improvement in OSA following MMA. Materials and methods: Thirty-one adults with moderate-to-severe OSA underwent surgery-first modified MMA as primary surgery. Polysomnography and cone-beam computed tomography were obtained pre-surgery, early post-surgery, and at follow-up (i.e., ≥ 2 years post-surgery). Image analysis software assessed the facial skeleton, upper airway, and its surrounding structures. Results: Early post-surgery, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) had decreased significantly (p < 0.001) and the minimum oxygen saturation (MSAT) increased (p = 0.001), indicating significant improvement in OSA. At follow-up, the AHI and MSAT remained stable. However, the anterior maxilla, soft palate, and tongue moved backward while the hyoid moved downward. There was also a significant decrease in the minimal cross-sectional area of the oropharynx. The reduction in AHI was significantly related to the anterior movement of the anterior maxilla and tongue, inferior movement of the posterior maxilla, and superior movement of the soft palate tip. Conclusions: The improvement of OSA after modified MMA remained stable for at least 2 years following treatment, despite the relapse of the facial skeleton, upper airway, and its surrounding structures. The reduction of AHI was not related to changes in the caliber of the upper airway but to the movement of the maxilla, soft palate, and tongue. Clinical relevance Modified MMA is clinically effective for long-term treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe OSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing popularity of visualizations in various fields, visualization comprehension has gained considerable attention. In this work, we focus on the effect of data size and pattern salience on comprehension of scatterplot, a popular visualization type. We began with a preliminary study in which we interviewed 50 people in terms of comprehension difficulties of 90 different visualizations. The results reveal that data size is one of the top three factors affecting visualization comprehension. Besides, the effect of data size probably depends on the pattern salience within the data. Therefore, we carried out our experiment on the effect of data size and data-related pattern salience on three intermediate-level comprehension tasks, namely finding anomalies, judging correlation, and identifying clusters. The tasks were conducted on the scatterplot due to its familiarity to users and ability to support diverse tasks. Through the experiment, we found a significant interaction effect of data size and pattern salience on the comprehension of the trends in scatterplots. In specific conditions of pattern salience, data size impacts the judgment of anomalies and cluster centers. We discussed the findings in our experiment and further summarized the factors in visualization comprehension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rare Metals is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Currently, no device is available for the rapid screening of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) at an early stage. Accordingly, we propose the design of an offline gas detection system to monitor and detect metabolites of pneumonia at an early stage. An electronic nose (e-nose) with 28 metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors was developed for predicting the presence of infection after patients have been intubated in the intensive care unit. The effectiveness of VAP identification was verified using clinical data. A total of 40 patients were included in this study, of whom 20 were infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the remaining were uninfected. The results revealed that good accuracy rates of 0.9208% ± 0.0302% and 0.8547% ± 0.0214% were achieved by support vector machine and artificial neural network models, respectively. This study provides a simple, low-cost solution for the rapid screening of VAP at an early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A double layered SnO2/WO3 sensing film was prepared on a P-type silicon wafer and the sensing characteristics of SnO2 film and SnO2/WO3 double layered film have been investigated. The micro films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope (SEM), line mapping micrograph from SEM, the response and recovery time of SnO2 film and SnO2/WO3 film. Different concentrations of NH3 from 50 to 300 ppb were taken into considerations. Whereas SnO2/WO3 bilayer film shows 25% at 50 ppb and gradually increases to 52% at 300 ppb which is double the response to the single layer SnO2 film. With the increase in the NH3 concentration of NH3, the response and recovery time was improved with SnO2/WO3 layered film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Various methods have been used to classify class III asymmetry. There is little information on the use of an asymmetry index to examine soft tissue changes and outcomes for patients with class III asymmetry. This study aimed to (1) evaluate soft tissue changes and outcomes for three types of mandibular asymmetry and (2) determine if measures are associated with type of asymmetry. Materials and methods: Adults who consecutively underwent bimaxillary surgery using surgery-first approach for correction of class III asymmetry were divided into three groups based on type of mandibular asymmetry. This previously reported classification system is simple and mutually independent, categorizing mandibular asymmetry according to the amount and direction of ramus asymmetry relative to menton deviation: patients with a larger transverse ramus distance on the menton deviation side were divided into group 1 and group 2; group 1 (n = 45) exhibited a menton deviation larger than ramus discrepancy; group 2 (n = 11) exhibited a menton deviation less than ramus discrepancy; group 3 (n = 22) had larger transverse ramus distance contralateral to the side of the menton deviation. Soft tissue facial asymmetry indices, calculated from cone beam computed tomography images, assessed midline and contour asymmetry presurgery, changes postsurgery, and outcomes. Results: Compared with groups 1 and 2, the presurgery index for contour and midline asymmetry was smallest for group 3. All the three groups had significant improvement in midline asymmetry postsurgery, and outcome measures were good; there were no differences between groups. However, contour asymmetry only improved significantly for groups 1 and 2. The outcome for contour asymmetry was fair for groups 1 and 3 and poor for group 2. Conclusions: Bimaxillary surgery significantly improved facial midline asymmetry. The type of mandibular asymmetry was associated with postsurgical changes and outcomes for contour asymmetry. Clinical relevance: Understanding the types of mandibular asymmetry could help clinicians to develop treatment plans and predict treatment changes and outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Two-jaw orthognathic surgery (OGS) is done using either the one-splint technique with free-hand positioning of the maxillomandibular complex or the two-splint technique with intermediate splints to position the maxilla. It is uncertain which technique achieves better outcomes. This study compares frontal soft tissue symmetry and subjective patient QoL between one-splint and two-splint techniques in skeletal Class III asymmetry patients undergoing OGS with three-dimensional surgical planning. Materials and methods: This retrospective case-control study comprised 34 one-splint and 46 two-splint OGS patients. Frontal photographs and Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire (OQLQ) were done pre- and post-treatment. Frontal soft tissue symmetry was analysed with the anthropometric Facial Symmetry Index. Measurements were compared with t-tests and chi-squared tests with p-value set at 0.05. Results: The groups differed in pre-treatment ANB and OQLQ scores. The two-splint group showed significant improvement in all symmetry measures. The one-splint group showed significant improvement in all symmetry measures except midface deviation, upper contour deviation and the Facial Contour Symmetry Index. Both groups showed significant improvement in OQLQ scores. There were no significant differences in post-treatment symmetry measurements and OQLQ scores between groups. Conclusions: Although two-splint technique may better improve contour symmetry, there were no significant differences in frontal soft tissue symmetry and QoL after OGS in skeletal Class III asymmetry with either one-splint or two-splint technique, with both techniques resulting in significant improvement. Clinical relevance: One-splint and two-splint surgical techniques produce similar patient-centred outcomes in Class III asymmetry patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The method to benifit tissue engineering of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) to cartilage has been an objective of intense research in treating increasing cartilage-related disease. In this study, whether hypoxic expansion would enhance the proliferation and in vitro chondrogenic differentiation of ADSCs was studied, and then hypoxic expansion was applied to reduce cartilage damage in a rat model in vivo. Hypoxic expansion increased the proliferation and decreased the expression of aging-related genes, including p16, p21, and p53, of human ADSCs in comparison with normoxic expansion. In addition, the γH2AX expression was reduced in the hypoxic ADSCs. The chondrogenic markers were enhanced in the hypoxic ADSC differentiated chondrogenic pellets, including SOX9 on day 7 and gene expressions of COL 2 and COL 10 on day 21. To determine the in vitro chondrogenic differentiation potential of ADSCs, ADSC differentiated 21-day chondrogenic pellets were stained by Alcian blue staining and the immunostaining of COL 2 and COL 10, the results of which confirmed the enhancement of differentiation potential after the hypoxic expansion. Moreover, cartilage injury in a rat model was reduced by hypoxic ADSC treatment that was determined by histological and immunohistochemical staining detections. The effects of hypoxic expansion of ADSCs and bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) on chondrogenic differentiation potential were also compared. Smaller sizes were presented in the in vitro hypoxic BMSC differentiated chondrogenic pellets, whereas the chondrogenic marker expressions were significantly higher than those of the hypoxic ADSCs. However, there was no significant difference between the treatments of the hypoxic ADSCs and BMSCs in the cartilage injury in vivo. In conclusion, hypoxic expansion increases the chondrogenic differentiation potential of ADSCs and BMSCs in vitro and enhances them to reduce cartilage damage in vivo. Although the hypoxic BMSCs showed compact chondrogenic pellet formation and higher potential of chondrogenesis, the easy access and large resources of ADSCs still uplifted the application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Patients with cleft lip–cleft palate (CLP) often require orthodontic treatment, with or without orthognathic surgery. Patient satisfaction is the most important outcome parameter in orthodontic treatment. This study aimed to (1) determine patient satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) after orthodontic treatment and (2) identify associated factors. Material and methods: This prospective cross-sectional study recruited patients with CLP who had completed orthodontic treatment at a craniofacial center in Taiwan. Participants (N=213) had received treatment for unilateral CLP (n=99), bilateral CLP (n=50), cleft lip and alveolus (n=39), and isolated cleft palate (n=25). Self-report questionnaires evaluated satisfaction with appearance and QoL; multiple regression analysis examined associated factors. Participants' expectations of treatment results were also reported. Results: Participants reported moderate satisfaction with facial appearance and QoL. Satisfaction with treatment was lower or much lower than expected for 13% of participants. Treatment for bilateral CLP was associated with the lowest satisfaction with overall appearance (r = −8.123, P < 0.05); participants who had received orthognathic surgery had the highest satisfaction (r = 5.534, P < 0.05). Treatment for unilateral and bilateral CLP was associated with low QoL for smile (both P < 0.05). Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment had a positive effect on facial appearance and quality of life in patients with CLP. Type of cleft and orthognathic surgery significantly influenced satisfaction with facial appearance. Clinical relevance: Efforts must be taken to modify treatment strategies for patients with bilateral CLP in order to improve satisfaction with appearance following treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess and compare the stability and outcomes of the two surgical approaches for patients with roll asymmetry. Materials and methods: A total of 50 adult patients were consecutively recruited for this prospective study. Patients with class III asymmetry and lip or occlusal cant who underwent bimaxillary surgery were grouped according to surgical approach: asymmetric posterior impaction on both sides (API, n = 31) and posterior impaction on one side and posterior extrusion on the other side (PIE, n = 19). Postsurgical stability and outcomes between groups were determined with cone-beam computed tomography for facial midline, lip, and occlusal cant at 1 week (T1), and at least 12-month postsurgery (T2, completion of orthodontic treatment). Results: Presurgery, the upper anterior occlusal cant and lip cant were significantly greater for the PIE group (p < 0.05). Postsurgery (T2), the mandible moved upward and rotated upward in both groups. However, the upward rotation was significantly greater in the PIE group compared with the API group. Although the two approaches resulted in significant improvements in facial symmetry, the deviation in the facial midline remained under-corrected for most API patients. Conclusions: Patient outcomes for mandibular stability and facial symmetry differed between the two surgical approaches for correction of class III asymmetry with lip or occlusal cant. Clinical relevance: The findings of this study suggest that planned over-correction is a reasonable option for the approach of asymmetric posterior impaction on both sides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reciprocal interactions between pathogens and hosts are complicated and profound. A comprehensive understanding of these interactions is essential for developing effective therapies against infectious diseases. Interferon responses induced upon virus infection are critical for establishing host antiviral innate immunity. Here, we provide a molecular mechanism wherein isoform switching of the host IKKε gene, an interferon-associated molecule, leads to alterations in IFN production during EV71 infection. We found that IKKε isoform 2 (IKKε v2) is upregulated while IKKε v1 is downregulated in EV71 infection. IKKε v2 interacts with IRF7 and promotes IRF7 activation through phosphorylation and translocation of IRF7 in the presence of ubiquitin, by which the expression of IFNβ and ISGs is elicited and virus propagation is attenuated. We also identified that IKKε v2 is activated via K63-linked ubiquitination. Our results suggest that host cells induce IKKε isoform switching and result in IFN production against EV71 infection. This finding highlights a gene regulatory mechanism in pathogen-host interactions and provides a potential strategy for establishing host first-line defense against pathogens. Chang et al. show that Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection upregulates IKKε isoform 2 (IKKε v2), which in turn activates interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7). This study suggests that host cells trigger IKKε isoform switching to increase the production of interferon against EV71 infection, providing a potential strategy for boosting host's antiviral defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated the impact of dental prophylaxis on 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)–related oral mucositis (OM) according to the head and neck cancer (HNC) locations and treatment times. Methods: A total of 13,969 HNC participants, including 482 5-FU–related OM subjects and 13,487 comparisons were enrolled from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database for Catastrophic Illness Patients of Taiwan between 2000 and 2008. All subjects were stratified into subgroups based on the times to perform chlorhexidine use, scaling, and fluoride application before 5-FU administration. The dental prophylaxis related to 5-FU–related OM was estimated by multiple logistic regression and represented with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Fluoride gel application and scaling significantly impacted on OM development (p < 0.001), and the joint effect of fluoride gel and scaling induced 5-FU–related OM (OR = 3.46, 95% CI = 2.39–5.01). The risk of OM was raised 2.25-fold as scaling within 3 weeks before 5-FU–related chemotherapy (95% CI = 1.81–2.81), and a 3.22-fold increased risk of OM while fluoride gel was applied during 5-FU–related treatment (95% CI = 1.46–7.13). Conclusion: Dental prophylaxis significantly affected 5-FU–related OM in the HNC population. A short interval between dental scaling or fluoride application and 5-FU administration may be associated with higher prevalence of OM. Scaling simultaneously combined with chlorohexidine promoted 5-FU–related OM in specific HNC patients excluding the oral cancer and nasopharyngeal cancer population. Proper timing of the prophylactic dental treatments prior to 5-FU therapy could reduce the risk to develop 5-FU–related OM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]