Facial Index Research Articles

Laser therapy for Bell's palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials.

This meta-analysis investigated therapeautic effects of laser therapies in patients with Bell's palsy (BP). The authors performed the literature search in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases using the following search terms: (facial paralysis OR Bell's palsy OR facial palsy OR idiopathic facial paralysis) AND (laser OR low-level laser OR photobiomodulation OR phototherapy). Relevant studies published before October 29th 2024 were identified. Randomized trials comparing the outcomes of laser therapies with other interventions, including electrical stimulation and control or usual care in patients with BP were included. The mean difference (MD) was determined as the effect size for continuous outcomes, and outcome accuracy was determined using 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Twelve studies were included, with a total of 597 patients. Nine studies were further included in the quantitative analysis. Our meta-analysis revealed that laser therapy significantly improved disease severity (House-Brackmann facial paralysis scale) (MD = -1.51, 95% CI = -2.43 to -0.59), facial asymmetry (Sunnybrook facial grading system) (MD = 20.63, 95% CI = 10.33 to 30.94), and facial function and disability (Facial disability index) (MD = 17.91, 95% CI = 5.60 to 30.22) when compared with control care in adult patients. Moreover, laser therapy significantly improved facial severity (MD = 21.05, 95% CI = 16.77 to 25.33) when compared with electrical stimulation. In addition, no adverse effects of laser therapy were reported. Laser therapy has favorable effects on disease severity, facial asymmetry, and facial function and disability for patients with BP.

Fu's subcutaneous needling for non-acute idiopathic facial paralysis : a randomized controlled trial

To observe the effect of Fu's subcutaneous needling in the treatment of non-acute idiopathic facial paralysis and its effect on serum levels of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin (ET). A total of 76 patients with non-acute idiopathic facial paralysis were randomly divided into an observation group (38 cases, 2 cases dropped out) and a control group (38 cases, 2 cases dropped out). The patients in the control group received basic treatment (mecobalamin tablets orally, specific electromagnetic spectrum irradiation, facial muscle rehabilitation training). The patients in the observation group were treated with Fu's subcutaneous needling on the basis of the control group. The needling points included brachioradialis muscle, sternocleidomastoid muscle, trapezius muscle, etc., and the needling was inserted around the affected muscle, and the reperfusion activity was carried out at the same time, once every other day, 3 times a week. Both groups were treated for 4 weeks. The House-Brackmann (H-B) grade and H-B symptom score were observed before treatment, after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment in the two groups. The facial disability index (FDI) score [including physical function (FDIP) score and social life function (FDIS) score] and the serum levels of NO and ET were compared before and after 4 weeks of treatment in the two groups. The clinical effect and safety of the two groups were assessed. After 2 and 4 weeks of treatment, the H-B grade of the two groups was lower than that before treatment, and the H-B symptom scores were higher than those before treatment (P<0.001, P<0.05); the H-B grade of the observation group was lower than that of the control group, and the H-B symptom score was higher than that of the control group (P<0.01, P<0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, the FDIP scores of the two groups were higher than those before treatment, and the FDIS scores were lower than those before treatment (P<0.05 ); the FDIP score of the observation group was higher than that of the control group, and the FDIS score was lower than that of the control group (P<0.05). After 4 weeks of treatment, the serum level of NO in the observation group was higher than that before treatment, and the serum level of ET was lower than that before treatment (P<0.05); the increase of serum level of NO and the decrease of serum level of ET in the observation group were greater than those in the control group (P<0.05). The cure rate of the observation group was 55.6% (20/36), which was higher than 22.2% (8/36) of the control group (P<0.05). There were no serious adverse reactions in both groups. Fu's subcutaneous needling combined with basic treatment can effectively improve the motor function of facial muscles in patients with non-acute idiopathic facial paralysis, which may be related to the regulation of serum NO and ET levels.

Characterization of the craniofacial abnormalities of the homozygous G608G progeria mouse model

IntroductionHutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic condition characterized by premature aging, impacting multiple organ systems, including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and integumentary. Significant abnormalities in a transgenic mouse model (homozygous G608G mutation), specifically targeting the development of skull and facial bone indices through high-resolution CT scanning and cephalometric analysis.MethodsKey measurements include bone thickness, skull volume, and cranial suture integrity. Bone volume increased significantly in HGPS mice by 8 months of age compared to wildtype mice.ResultsCortical thickness showed a trend toward increased values in HGPS mice. Cranial metrics revealed distinct differences.DiscussionHGPS mice exhibited smaller internasal width, interzygomatic distance, and palatine length compared to WT mice over time.

Determining of the relationship between gum phenotype and anthropometric data of the face and gender

Relevance. Diagnosis of the condition of periodontal tissues at the stage of comprehensive treatment planning for a dental patient is an important step in the work of dentists. The presence of difficulties in diagnosing the phenotypic condition of the gums dictates the need to search for additional clinical diagnostic methods that allow determining the phenotype with minimal time and financial costs.Objective. To determine the relationship between anthropometric values of the face (width and height of the face) and gender with the gin-gival phenotype.Materials and methods. During the clinical examinations, an analysis was carried out of the anthropometric data of men and women obtained as a result of photometry, the results of a study of the gingival phenotype by transgingival probing using the De Rouck method and CBCT data (cone beam computed tomography) in patients with their further distribution into groups. A total of 45 people took part in the study, of which 12 were men and 33 were women.Results. Statistical processing of the obtained data showed that for men, the differences between the groups with different phenotypes (thick/ thin) are reliable for the parameter face width. For women with different gum phenotypes (thick and thin), reliable differences were obtained between the groups for the parameters face height and face width. The gum phenotype correlates with the face width (noticeable correlation for all, high for men and women separately); face height (moderate correlation for all, men and women); but does not correlate with the facial index and gender.Conclusion. Thus, the study showed that a combined diagnostic examination of the patient, taking into account gender, facial height and width in women, and facial width in men, can help in the correct assessment of the gingival phenotype.

Photoanthropometric study: are non-professional photographs suitable for objective and reliable analysis of facial features?

The face has been widely investigated using professionally taken frontal and lateral photographs, however, there is a lack of studies of non-professional facial photographs. It is not known if they could be suitable for facial analysis. The analysis of non-professional photographs could allow the performance of cost- effective longitudinal studies. To determine if non-professional photographs could be used for a reliable analysis of facial features. The frontal profiles of 18-21-year-olds (35 males, 39 females) were measured by direct anthropometry, in addition, professional photographs were taken and non-professional photographs were obtained. Anthropometric landmarks were superimposed on those photographs. The indices calculated on the basis of the measurements of direct anthropometry and both types of photographs were compared. The comparison of the measurements of direct anthropometry and professional photographs showed no difference between 14 out of 25 male and 10 out of 25 female facial indices (p > 0.05) after comparing the results of direct anthropometry with those of non-professional photographs, no difference was found in 8 out of 25 male and 7 out of 25 female indices. These indices were mostly composed of vertical parameters and eye measurements. Vertical facial dimensions and eye measurements may not only be used interchangeably for both facial photographs and direct anthropometry, but may also be suitable for objective and reliable facial analyses.

Effects of Kabat rehabilitation versus mime therapy on facial disability and synkinesis in patients of Bell's palsy.

To compare the effects of Kabat rehabilitation and Mime therapy on facial disability and synkinesis in patients with Bell's palsy. The single-blind, randomised clinical trial was conducted at the Physiotherapy Department of the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan, from May to October 2023, and comprised adults of either gender aged 25-50 years having sub-acute or chronic unilateral Bell's palsy of non-congenital origin. The patients were randomised into Kabat rehabilitation group A and mime therapy group B. Conventional physical therapy was given to both groups additionally. Facial disability was assessed using the Facial Disability Index scale, and synkinesis was observed using the House-Brackmann Facial Nerve Grading Scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 25. Of the 72 patients, 41(56.9%) were females and 31(43.1%) were males. The overall mean age was 37.77±6.98 years, mean body mass index was 25.71±5.71kg/m2 and 41(56.9%) patients had left-sided palsy. Facial disability and synkinesis were significantly different in both groups post-intervention (p<0.001), while intergroup differences were significant in the 3rd and 6th weeks (p<0.001). Kabat rehabilitation led to more significant improvements in synkinesis and facial disability compared to mime therapy. Clinical trials.gov registration id: NCT06029855.

The Effects of Telerehabilitation-Based Exercise Therapy on Motor and Non-Motor Clinical Outcomes in Adults With Facial Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Recent case reports have emphasized the essential clinical contribution of telerehabilitation in the treatment of facial palsy. However, no randomized controlled trial has yet demonstrated the effects of telerehabilitation-based facial exercise therapy. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of video exercise-based telerehabilitation on motor and non-motor clinical outcomes in adults with facial palsy. We conducted a randomized controlled trial with 40 peripheral facial palsy patients. Those in the experimental group (EG) received four weeks of telerehabilitation-based video exercises and routine care. Those in the control group (CG) received only routine care. All participants were evaluated with the Facial Disability Index (FDI), the Facial Clinimetric Evaluation Scale (FaCE), Short Form-12 (SF-12), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the House-Brackmann Scale (H-B) and the Telemedicine Satisfaction and Usefulness Questionnaire (TSUQ), both before and after the interventions. Both groups demonstrated a significant improvement in FDI, FaCE, and SF-12 PCS scores (p < .05). In addition, there was a significant improvement only in EG on the SF-12 MCS score (p < .05), and there was a significant gain only in CG on the HADS-Depression score (p < .05). While these results provide a further contribution to our understanding of telerehabilitation benefits in mental health variables related to quality of life for facial palsy patients, we found no EG and CG differences on the physical components of treatment.

Picosecond Alexandrite Laser With Diffractive Lens Array Combined With Long-Pulse Alexandrite Laser for the Treatment of Facial Photoaging in Chinese Women: A Retrospective Study.

Facial photoaging is a type of facial skin aging induced mainly by exogenous factors (ultraviolet radiation) and often manifests itself in the form of hyperpigmentation, telangiectasia, roughness, increase in fine lines/wrinkles, and enlarged pores. Recently, picosecond lasers have become an emerging option for the treatment of facial photoaging, and long-pulse alexandrite lasers (LPAL) have demonstrated promising potential in the treatment of photoaging-related symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of picosecond alexandrite laser (PSAL) with diffractive lens array (DLA) combined with LPAL for facial photoaging. This is a retrospective study of 20 Chinese female patients with facial photoaging who received PSAL with DLA combined with LPAL during a 1-year period. All patients were treated every 4weeks for a total of three treatments. Objective indicators of facial photoaging and patient satisfaction were evaluated before each treatment, and pain scores and adverse effects were recorded after each treatment. Compared with baseline, patients showed significant differences in all facial photoaging indices (p<0.01). After receiving three treatments, there was a 20.1% decrease in the pigmentation index, a 23.9% decrease in the erythema index, a 34.5% decrease in the texture index, a 28.4% decrease in the fine lines index, a 56% decrease in the pore index, a 9.3% elevation and a 17.1% decrease in elasticity R2 and F4, respectively, and a 55% decrease in sebum content. The mean satisfaction score for the three treatments was 4.67 (3.33, 5.00), and the mean visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score was 7.00. No serious adverse effects such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), hypopigmentation, or blistering were observed at the treatment site during the treatment period. PSAL with DLA combined with LPAL for the treatment of facial photoaging with significant efficacy, high patient satisfaction, and minimal adverse effects.

"Hot" affect-related aspects in emotional information processing: The role of facial muscle responses in the direct and indirect processing of emotion categories.

The present study investigated the involvement of facial muscle responses in the indirect and direct processing of emotional facial expressions. Five discrete emotion categories were used, and we assessed both facial muscle and behavioral responses on a trial-by-trial basis. Experiment 1 tested facial muscle activation of clearly visible stimuli in an emotion categorization task. We observed emotion-specific facial muscle responses and corresponding behavioral categorization effects, providing evidence for the specificity of facial muscle activation. By contrast, under masked indirect presentation conditions in which emotional facial expressions were presented as primes in an emotion misattribution procedure, a specific pattern of emotion-congruent and cross-category behavioral misattributions was observed (in line with Rohr et al., 2015, 2018). Multilevel analyses in Study 2 suggest that an emotional reaction feeds into the behavioral decision, as indicated by differential activation of the frontalis lateralis in response to angry faces. Thus, the present study provides evidence that facial muscle responses contribute to behavioral decisions under masked indirect processing conditions. The different pattern of effects in both studies suggests that facial muscle responses index different processes, depending on the processing conditions: sensorimotor simulation in direct processing conditions and emotional reactions in masked indirect processing conditions. We discuss the implications for models that aim to account for facial muscle activity in response to emotional facial expressions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Supramolecular collagen nanoparticles for anti-wrinkle, skin whitening, and moisturizing effects

Collagen-based skincare products can replenish collagen in the skin; however, collagen cannot easily penetrate the dermis, limiting its effectiveness. Therefore, nanomaterials that can enable collagen to effectively penetrate the dermis are urgently needed. This study aimed to determine the potential role of the supramolecular collagen nanoparticles, namely, lactoferrin, recombinant human collagen, and palmitoyl tripeptide-5, in improving the effectiveness of skincare products. Lactoferrin and recombinant collagen served as carriers encapsulating palmitoyl tripeptide-5, with an encapsulation rate of 94.18 %. The supramolecular collagen nanoparticles demonstrated good stability after 1 month. Transdermal efficiency was improved by 69.90 %, allowing the nanoparticles to penetrate deeply into the dermis. Within 28 days of use, the moisture content of the stratum corneum increased by 10.51 %, facial elasticity improved by 8.15 %, skin firmness increased by 12.53 %, facial melanin index decreased by 1.84 %, and individual type angle increased by 19.10 %. Within 14 days, there was a 24.69 % reduction in eye bag wrinkles and a 37.61 % reduction in nasolabial wrinkles. Wrinkle lengths decreased by 10.22 % and 21.57 %, and areas decreased by 34.41 % and 27.92 %, respectively. The supramolecular collagen nanoparticles displayed multiple skincare benefits, including moisturizing, whitening, wrinkle reduction, and firming. In conclusion, the supramolecular collagen nanoparticles are promising candidates for cosmetic products.

Craniofacial Measurements and Indices Trends in Latvian Children Aged 1-15.

This study aimed to assess the trends in craniofacial measurements and indices in Latvian children aged 1-15. The anthropometrical measurements (head circumference, length, width, facial length, and width) were conducted on 375 children according to the guidelines by R. Martin, K. Saller, and J. Prīmanis at the Anthropology laboratory at the Institute of Anatomy and Anthropology, Rīga Stradiņš University. The cephalic index (CI) and the facial or prosopic index (PI) were calculated, allowing for a detailed examination of cranial and facial proportions. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Pearson Chi-square test and the Spearman correlation coefficient. The findings revealed a consistent increase in head circumference with age, with boys generally having slightly larger heads than girls. The boys and girls exhibited growth in head length and width, particularly noticeable between 1 and 2 years of age. Facial length and width increased with age, with boys typically having longer facial lengths and broader faces than girls. The most common cephalic index category is mesocephaly, which accounts for 52.85% of the population, followed by dolichocephaly at 32.94%. Brachycephaly and hyperbrachycephaly are less prevalent, representing 11.36% and 2.86% of the population. Regarding the facial index categories, hypereuryprosopic is the most prevalent, representing 45.54% of the population, closely followed by euryprosopic at 43.74%. Mesoprosopic is significantly less common, representing only 9.95%. The least common categories are leptoprosopic and hyperleptoprosopic, with prevalences of 0.64% and 0.12%, respectively. The indices analysis showed variations across age groups, with dolichocephaly being more common at younger ages and decreasing over time. Brachycephaly and hyperbrachycephaly remained relatively stable or decreased slightly with age, while mesocephaly displayed less variation. The relationship between the FI and CI in younger age groups was typically weak to moderate and inverse, with a significance level of p < 0.001 or p < 0.01. However, no meaningful correlation was observed in older children aged 14-15. This study provides valuable insights into the craniofacial development of Latvian children, highlighting the measurements, cranial and facial types, and their variations across age groups.

Epineurectomy of extracranial facial nerve trunk for non-flaccid sequelae following Bell's palsy: A single-arm trial.

Non-flaccid facial palsy sequelae manifest as sequelae following Bell's palsy. Currently, there are no effective remedies for addressing this issue. In this study, we proposed a new surgical solution, epineurectomy of the extracranial facial nerve trunk, and assessed its safety and efficacy as a potential remedy.. In this single-arm trial, adult patients with non-flaccid facial palsy sequelae were enrolled and subjected to epineurectomy of the extracranial facial nerve trunk. The primary efficacy endpoint was the Sunnybrook scores at months 12 postoperatively. The secondary endpoints included non-flaccid facial palsy sequelae symptom scores, such as facial tightness or facial stiffness, facial synkinesis, eyefissures narrowing or difficulty in opening the eyes, House-Brackmann grade scale, and Facial Disability Index. A total of 22 patients were enrolled between July 2020 and January 2021. One patient was lost to follow up. One year after surgery, the Sunnybrook score was 72.0 (63.0 - 75.0) at 12 months versus 68.0 (58.0 - 70.8) at baseline. The mean difference was -5.4 (-7.2 to -3.6). The scores of facial tightness or facial stiffness, synkinesis, eye fissures narrowing or difficulty in opening eyes were 0.0 (0.0 - 1.0), 1.0 (1.0 - 1.0), 1.0 (1.0 - 2.0) at 12 months versus 3.0 (1.3 - 3.0), 2.0 (1.0 - 2.8), 2.0 (2.0 - 3.0) at baseline, respectively. The median (IQR) values of the Facial Disability Index physical function were 92.0 (90.0 - 95.0) at months 12, and the mean difference (95% CI) was -32 (-38 to -26) compared to baseline. The mean difference (95% CI) in the Facial Disability Index social/well-being function between month 12 and baseline was -38 (-46 to -31). Epineurectomy of the extracranial facial nerve trunk can effectively and safely alleviate the sequelae of non-flaccid facial palsy.

Impression management in the boardroom: How CEO facial trustworthiness influences turnover risk

This paper examines the effect of perceived trustworthiness on the turnover of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and its moderating role in the relationship between firm performance and CEO turnover. We employ a unique dataset comprising headshots of male CEOs in US-listed firms from 2010 to 2019 and a machine learning-based facial landmark detector to construct a composite facial trustworthiness index. Our results show that CEOs exhibiting high facial trustworthiness experience a lower turnover risk. We also find that facial trustworthiness strongly influences the link between firm performance and CEO turnover. Well-performing executives have a lower risk of being dismissed from their positions, and the dismissal risk is even lower among CEOs perceived as having a high facial trustworthiness. Conversely, underperforming CEOs are more likely to be dismissed, and the dismissal probability is greater among CEOs who have been perceived as being highly trustworthy. Our findings are consistent with the predictions of the expectancy violation theory, which posits that trustworthy-looking executives are more likely to be punished if they do not live up to the expectations held by the board of directors.

Integrated analysis of facial microbiome and skin physio-optical properties unveils cutotype-dependent aging effects

BackgroundOur facial skin hosts millions of microorganisms, primarily bacteria, crucial for skin health by maintaining the physical barrier, modulating immune response, and metabolizing bioactive materials. Aging significantly influences the composition and function of the facial microbiome, impacting skin immunity, hydration, and inflammation, highlighting potential avenues for interventions targeting aging-related facial microbes amidst changes in skin physiological properties.ResultsWe conducted a multi-center and deep sequencing survey to investigate the intricate interplay of aging, skin physio-optical conditions, and facial microbiome. Leveraging a newly-generated dataset of 2737 species-level metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), our integrative analysis highlighted aging as the primary driver, influencing both facial microbiome composition and key skin characteristics, including moisture, sebum production, gloss, pH, elasticity, and sensitivity. Further mediation analysis revealed that skin characteristics significantly impacted the microbiome, mostly as a mediator of aging. Utilizing this dataset, we uncovered two consistent cutotypes across sampling cities and identified aging-related microbial MAGs. Additionally, a Facial Aging Index (FAI) was formulated based on the microbiome, uncovering the cutotype-dependent effects of unhealthy lifestyles on skin aging. Finally, we distinguished aging related microbial pathways influenced by lifestyles with cutotype-dependent effect.ConclusionsTogether, our findings emphasize aging’s central role in facial microbiome dynamics, and support personalized skin microbiome interventions by targeting lifestyle, skin properties, and aging-related microbial factors.8-x6JkQezK-S195ofXGtyGVideo

Evaluation of the Rehabilitation Effect of Nanometric Ion Medicine Steam Combined with Facial Muscle Training in the Treatment of Post-Stroke Peripheral Facial Nerve Palsy

This work aimed to investigate the rehabilitation effect of nanometer ion medicine steaming combined with facial muscle training in the treatment of post-stroke peripheral facial nerve palsy (PFNP), and to analyze the therapeutic effect of artificial skin continuous negative pressure drainage on stroke pressure ulcers. 120 patients with post-stroke PFNP who were admitted to Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine were recruited and rolled into the medicine steaming group (MS group, nanometer ion medicine steam) and the joint group (J group, nanometer ion medicine steam plus facial muscle training). The treatment effects, facial functional recovery, and pressure ulcer treatment outcomes were compared between patients in different groups. Results: After treatment, the facial disability index scores and facial nerve function scores of both groups of patients greatly increased, with a more drastic increase in J group (P &lt; 0.05), so did the scores of various traditional Chinese medicine symptoms (P &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, the proportion of patients in J group with facial function classified as level I or level II was obviously higher (P &lt; 0.05). The treatment effectiveness and satisfaction rate in J group were dramatically superior to in MS group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: the joint treatment of nanometer ion medicine steam and facial muscle training has a significant effect in the rehabilitation of post-stroke PFNP, with faster facial functional recovery and higher patient acceptance.

Coincidence of the facial and maxillary dental midlines in the Peruvian population. A cross-sectional study.

This study aimed to determine the percentage of perfect and acceptable coincidence between the facial and maxillary dental midlines in individuals from Peru. This was a cross-sectional study of a group of Peruvian individuals gathered from private offices in Lima, Peru, from January to June 2024. A total of 279 patients (133 males and 146 females) aged between 18 and 30 were included. We selected patients with permanent teeth up to their second molars, while those with gaps between their front teeth, ongoing or previous orthodontic treatment, or any craniofacial anomalies were excluded. Using a professional camera, we took frontal photographs of the participants at rest and while smiling. The facial morphological index was used to classify facial biotypes into three categories: mesofacial, dolichofacial, and brachyfacial. We then used the PowerPoint program to analyze perfect and accepted coincidence (deviation to either side of up to 2 mm) between the facial and dental midline. The data was analyzed by chi-square tests and binary logistic regression (p>0.05). Perfect coincidence of the dental midline was present in 23.3% of the cases, while an accepted coincidence was observed in 95.7% of the individuals. When considering facial structure, the percentage of alignment of the maxillary dental midline (perfect or accepted) with the facial midline did not show a significant association (p=0.145, p=0.870, respectively). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the percentage of alignment between men and women (p=0.241 for perfect coincidence, p=0.322 for accepted alignment). Most Peruvian individuals assessed had an accepted coincidence (up to 2 mm) between the facial midline and the maxillary dental midline, although it is not always perfect. In these cases, orthodontic treatment is needed for optimal occlusal relationships and stable facial esthetics. Key words:Esthetics, Facial midline, maxillary dental midline, Peruvian.

Quantitative analysis of surgical landmarks of the face in fixed cadaveric heads: clinical and anatomical implications.

This study aimed to examine and analyze the presence of sexual dimorphism and symmetry/asymmetry in fixed cadaveric heads and their contributions to clinical practice. Measurements were conducted on 6 cadavers and 24 fixed cadaveric heads (n = 30) using a digital microcaliper to assess cranial dimensions, including surgical landmarks, facial index (FI), orbital index (OI), and the danger triangle of the face, offering crucial references for surgeons during surgical interventions. Analyses were conducted on cadavers consisting of 10 females (33.3%) and 20 males (66.7%). Males demonstrated significantly higher values than females in terms of Zy-Zy (Zy = Zygion), nasal body, and width/length of the columella. Hyperleptoprosop types were the most frequently observed, followed by the leptoprosop type. Females exhibited megaseme characteristics according to OI on both sides. Additionally, the danger triangle of the face was greater in males compared than in females, suggesting a higher risk of infection in this region among males. The observed sex differences in facial and nasal dimensions, along with facial indices, are crucial for customizing surgical procedures to individual patients. For example, the greater distance in the danger triangle among males highlights the importance of considering anatomical variations to avoid complications, such as septic cavernous sinus thrombosis. Integrating these measurements into preoperative planning can enhance the precision of facial reconstruction and aesthetic surgeries, thereby improving patient outcomes and safety.

Beyond the smile: a systematic review of diagnostic tools for peripheral facial paralysis.

Effective rehabilitation of peripheral facial paralysis (PFP) requires reliable assessment tools. This systematic review aimed to identify and validate instruments used in PFP rehabilitation, categorizing them according to the ICF framework. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Cinahl, Web of Science, and Scopus up to April 2024. Observational analytical studies and one non-randomized controlled trial that validated tools for assessing PFP were included. Thirty-three studies were included, covering twenty different tools. Seventeen tools were related to the "Structure and Function" domain, while three addressed "Activity and Participation." The Sunnybrook and House-Brackmann scales were the most extensively studied. The Sunnybrook scale exhibited excellent intra- and inter-rater reproducibility and internal validity, making it suitable for clinical use. The House-Brackmann scale was user-friendly but had limitations in reproducibility and sensitivity to subtle differences, which newer versions like the FNGS 2.0 aimed to address. The FAME scale showed promise by reducing subjective scoring. Computerized tools, such as eFACE and A-FPG, and instruments for lip asymmetry and ocular involvement demonstrated potential but require further validation. The Facial Disability Index and the FaCE Scale were validated for assessing disability and participation restrictions. This review identified several validated tools for PFP assessment, with the Sunnybrook and House-Brackmann scales being the most reliable. While emerging tools and computerized programs show promise, they need further validation for routine clinical use. Integrating validated tools into clinical practice is essential for comprehensive assessment and effective rehabilitation of PFP.

Translation and Reliability of the Facial Disability Index (FDI) in Bell’s Palsy

Background: Bell's palsy, a sudden-onset facial paralysis linked to the facial nerve, is often poorly assessed in non-English-speaking populations due to culturally insensitive tools. The Facial Disability Index (FDI) is traditionally used but lacks adaptations for Urdu-speaking patients, leading to potential disparities in care. Objective: This study aimed to translate and evaluate the reliability and validity of the Urdu Facial Disability Index (UFDI) for assessing facial impairment in Bell's palsy patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed over four months, recruiting 203 Urdu-speaking patients with Bell's palsy from rehabilitation clinics. The UFDI underwent rigorous translation and cultural adaptation processes, including forward and backward translation and expert committee reviews. Participants completed the UFDI and the House-Brackmann Facial Grading Scale (HBFGS) for validity assessment. Descriptive statistics and reliability analyses were conducted using SPSS version 25, with Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for test-retest reliability. Results: The UFDI showed a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.77 and an ICC of 0.99, indicating good internal consistency and excellent test-retest reliability. Spearman’s rho showed significant correlation with HBFGS (r = 0.508, p &lt; 0.05), confirming convergent validity. Conclusion: The UFDI is a reliable and valid tool for assessing facial disability in Urdu-speaking patients with Bell’s palsy, enhancing culturally sensitive clinical care.

The Relationship between the Length/Width of the Face and the Length/Width of the Crown of the Permanent Upper Central Incisors.

Background: The face, with its attractiveness, is positively connected with self-esteem and interpersonal relationships, and the maxillary central incisors are the most noticeable teeth and crucial for smile aesthetics. The aim of this study is to examine facial and permanent upper central incisors' clinical crown dimensions and their correlations to establish whether there is a relationship between the length/width of the face and the length/width of the clinical crown of the permanent upper central incisors. Methods: This study included 100 subjects (43 males and 57 females) with a mean age of 17.5 ± 3.4 years before orthodontic treatment. Facial length and width were measured using a cephalometer by the same orthodontist and the upper central incisors' clinical crown lengths and widths were measured using a sliding calliper by the same dental student. Data were analysed using SPSS version 29.0, presenting descriptive statistics for age, facial and upper central incisor crown dimensions, and indices. Pearson's correlation coefficient assessed the relationship between facial features and the upper central incisors' crown. The significance level was p ≤ 0.05. Results: Males exhibit a slightly higher mean value of the face length (11.6 ± 0.8 cm) compared to females' face length (11.2 ± 1.1 cm) and a statistically significant (p < 0.05) higher mean value of the face width (11.7 ± 0.8 cm) compared to females (11.1 ± 0.6 cm). The facial index shows no statistically significant gender difference (males: 99.1 ± 8.4; females: 101.2 ± 11.9, p > 0.05). The upper central incisor crown dimensions are without statistically significant differences between gender and tooth side: males have mean value clinical crown lengths of 10.2 ± 1.1 mm (left) and 10.1 mm ± 1.2 (right) while females have 9.9 ± 1.0 mm (left) and 9.8 ± 0.7 mm (right). Clinical crown widths are also comparable (males: left 9.0 ± 0.7, right 8.9 ± 0.6 and females: left 8.8 ± 0.7, right 8.8 ± 0.7), with no statistically significant differences observed. The tooth index shows no statistically significant difference but there is a statistically significant (p < 0.05) correlation between the facial index and tooth index. Conclusions: Knowledge of the presented data is important for diagnosis and treatment planning and may be useful for restorative dentists, orthodontists, prosthodontists, and maxillofacial surgeons to achieve an aesthetic result. Clinically, our study supports the development of more personalized treatment plans.