Physical Appearance Research Articles

Ectoparasites Infestation to Small Ruminants and Practical Attitudes among Farmers toward Acaricides Treatment in Central Region of Java, Indonesia.

Ectoparasite infestations are one of the major problems affecting goat and sheep farming. Disease resulting from these infestations can cause changes in physical appearance, such as severe lesions on the skin, and economic consequences in the form of significantly reduced selling prices. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ectoparasites in the Boyolali district, Central Java, Indonesia. A total of 651 sheep and goats were surveyed in this study. The parasites were collected via skin scraping, twister, or manually from clinically infected goats and sheep in traditional farms. All of the ectoparasites collected were successfully identified. The prevalence of ectoparasites in ruminants in Boyolali was 97.8% (637/651). The species make-up was as follows: Bovicola caprae 97.8% (637/651), Linognathus africanus 39% (254/651), Haemaphysalis bispinosa 3.5% (23/651), Ctenocephalides spp. 0.2% (1/651), and Sarcoptes scabiei 5.2% (34/651). The predilection sites were in the face, ear, and leg areas, and in the axillary, dorsal, abdomen, and scrotum regions of the surveyed animals. An evaluation of farmers' attitudes to ectoparasites was performed using a questionnaire. The findings of this study imply that animals in the investigated area are highly exposed to ectoparasite infestations. Given the importance of ectoparasites in both livestock and human communities, specifically in the health domain, more research into appropriate control strategies is necessary.

EFFECT OF rGH HORMONE ADMINISTRATION ON PROTEASE ENZYME ACTIVITY AND RNA/DNA RATIO OF STRIPED CATFISH (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) MAINTAINED IN SALINE MEDIA

Striped catfish is a prevalent fish and is in great demand. Striped catfish cultivation generally uses fresh water as a living medium, but several freshwater fish commodities are starting to be developed to adapt to saline media. Harvesting striped catfish usually takes approximately 3 - 8 months. To overcome this, one way is to use growth hormone. The growth hormone currently used is Recombinant Growth Hormone (rGH). GH administration has been reported to have various effects, particularly on protein metabolism. In fish digestion, protein from feed cannot be directly absorbed but is first broken down by protease enzymes into amino acids. The physical appearance, which is the phenotype of an organism, is the result of metabolic processes in each cell that makes up the organism. This research aimed to analyze the effect of administering the rGH hormone on protease enzyme activity, RNA/DNA ratio, and growth of striped catfish maintained in saline media. The method used was experimental in the form of a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four treatments and three replications. Based on the results obtained during the research, it shows that Protease Enzyme Activity (U/minute) and the best RNA/DNA Ratio use a dose of 3 mg/kg with respective values ​​of 0.75±0.24 U/minute and3.30±0.49.

Xenopus tropicalis osteoblast-specific open chromatin regions reveal promoters and enhancers involved in human skeletal phenotypes and shed light on early vertebrate evolution

While understanding the genetic underpinnings of osteogenesis has far-reaching implications for skeletal diseases and evolution, a comprehensive characterization of the osteoblastic regulatory landscape in non-mammalian vertebrates is still lacking. Here, we compared the ATAC-Seq profile of Xenopus tropicalis (Xt) osteoblasts to a variety of non mineralizing control tissues, and identified osteoblast-specific nucleosome free regions (NFRs) at 527 promoters and 6747 distal regions. Sequence analyses, Gene Ontology, RNA-Seq and ChIP-Seq against four key histone marks confirmed that the distal regions correspond to bona fide osteogenic transcriptional enhancers exhibiting a shared regulatory logic with mammals. We report 425 regulatory regions conserved with human and globally associated to skeletogenic genes. Of these, 35 regions have been shown to impact human skeletal phenotypes by GWAS, including one trps1 enhancer and the runx2 promoter, two genes which are respectively involved in trichorhinophalangeal syndrome type I and cleidocranial dysplasia. Intriguingly, 60 osteoblastic NFRs also align to the genome of the elephant shark, a species lacking osteoblasts and bone tissue. To tackle this paradox, we chose to focus on dlx5 because its conserved promoter, known to integrate regulatory inputs during mammalian osteogenesis, harbours an osteoblast-specific NFR in both frog and human. Hence, we show that dlx5 is expressed in Xt and elephant shark odontoblasts, supporting a common cellular and genetic origin of bone and dentine. Taken together, our work (i) unravels the Xt osteogenic regulatory landscape, (ii) illustrates how cross-species comparisons harvest data relevant to human biology and (iii) reveals that a set of genes including bnc2, dlx5, ebf3, mir199a, nfia, runx2 and zfhx4 drove the development of a primitive form of mineralized skeletal tissue deep in the vertebrate lineage.

Effect of Socio-Economic and Institutional Factors on Different Choices of Food Production System Practiced in Home Gardens: A Case Study in Mahakanumulla Village Tank Cascade System

The global existence of small-scale food production at the household level has a wide range in terms of physical appearance and utilization. Household, market, and field gardens can be identified as three types of home food producti on systems in a village tank cascade system (VTCS) in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. The variation in food producti on systems adapted in VTCS serves differently for the community either by providing nutrient requirements or ensuri ng financial or food security. It is important to understand the determinants of this variation to support the comm unity to adapt the most suitable food production system for their well-being. Based on random utility theory, this study analyzes the socio-economic and institutional factors affecting the choice of food production system practiced in home gardens in Mahakanumulla VTCS. A revealed preference approach was employed to identify the current home garden choice of households. The decision to have a ho usehold garden is more driven by socio-economic and institutional factors rather than market gardens and field gard ens. The effect of these factors on the decision to have a field garden is comparatively less. Using these results policymakers can predict farm management decisions of households and plan evidence-based strategic governm ent intervention to meet the daily nutrient requirement, ensure food security, and mitigate food scarcity.

Caring for Patients With Body Dysmorphic Disorder Seeking to Undergo Plastic Surgery and/or Aesthetic Interventions.

In the field of medical aesthetics and plastic surgery, it is not uncommon to interact with clients who never seem to be satisfied, regardless of the success of an intervention. Medical professionals may attribute this to the patient having an overly critical nature; however, this continual dissatisfaction could also be the result of a mental health disorder known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) that is significantly underdiagnosed and prevalent within the plastic surgery and aesthetic patient population. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013), BDD is defined as, "a preoccupation with one or more perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance that are not observable or appear slight to others" (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2016, Table 23). Having the ability to identify the signs of BDD, utilize appropriate communication skills with individuals who may have BDD, and understand the implications of providing additional aesthetic treatments for patients who present with BDD allows aesthetic practitioners to prioritize and promote patient safety, well-being, and satisfaction.

IJCM_390A: A study to assess body weight perception, weight control practices, and their association with menstruation among adolescent girls in the rural field practice area of Bangalore medical college and research institute

Background: Adolescent girls are concerned about their weight, physical appearance, and how society perceives them. The identities they seek and create in this phase influence society and their peers. In this process, a lot of Emotional, Biological, and Social problems are faced by them. One such problem is Menstrual disorders. Keeping this rationale in mind, the above study was undertaken to Assess Body weight perception, Weight control practices, and their association with Menstruation among Adolescent girls. Objective: 1. To assess Body weight perception and Weight Control Practices, among Adolescent girls 2. To compare Body weight perception and Weight control practices among Adolescent girls with normal and abnormal Menstrual cycles Methodology: A Cross-sectional study was conducted among Adolescent girls residing in the rural field practice area of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru. A Sample size of 192 was determined based on a previous study done by Bhurtun DD et al, and Simple random sampling was used for participant recruitment. Data collection utilized a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data analyzed using SPSS 21.0 Results: Among the 192 participants, based on Body mass index (BMI), 13(6.7%) were Overweight and the rest of the participants 135(70.3%) were of Normal weight. Out of 118(61.5%) respondents reported trying to lose weight, reducing fat intake 100(84.7%) was the most common method. The majority of the Adolescent girls had a positive perception of weight control but had problems accepting their body image as healthy. Body weight perception and Weight control practices affected normal menstrual cycles as well as girls with Menstrual disorders. Conclusion: The findings revealed Body weight perception affected the girls with Normal Menstruation as well as with Menstrual disorders. Therefore, Adolescent girls need to be educated on the need for a Healthy body image as well as a Healthy lifestyle.

Heating of metallic orthodontic devices during anti-aging treatment with vacuum and electromagnetic fields: In vitro study.

The physical appearance of an individual plays a primary role as it influences the opinion of the viewer. For this reason, orthodontic therapy to improve perceived aesthetics is in high demand among patients. This factor, combined with the increase in the number of non-invasive facial aesthetic treatments, has led to the need to understand potential risk factors in the application of medical devices to the perioral skin in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro heating of the orthodontic bracket following electromagnetic fields and negative pressure (V-EMF) used as an anti-aging treatment. Two different types of titanium alloy wires, one made of "beta-Titanium" alloy and the other "Ni-Ti" (DW Lingual Systems GmbH-Bad Essen-Germany) were used. The orthodontic wires and brackets mounted on a resin mouth were covered with porcine muscle tissue, then subjected to anti-aging therapy with a Bi-one LifeTouchTherapy medical device (Expo Italia Srl-Florence-Italy) which generates a combination of vacuum and electromagnetic fields (V-EMF) already adopted for antiaging therapy. During administration of the therapy, the orthodontic brackets and porcine tissue were thermally monitored using a Wavetek Materman TMD90 thermal probe (Willtek Communications GmbH-Germany). In total 20 orthodontic mouths were used, 10 with Beta Titanium wires and 10 with Nickel Titanium wires. A temperature increase of about 1°C was recorded in each group. The outcome of the present research shows that the absolute temperatures measured on orthodontic appliances, which, despite having a slightly different curve, both show an increase in temperature of 1.1°C at the end of the session, thus falling well within the safety range of 2°C as specified by the standard CENELEC EN 45502-1. Therefore, V-EMF therapy can be considered safe for the entire dental system and for metal prostheses, which tend to heat up at most as much as biological tissue (+0.9°C/1.1°C vs. 1.1°C/1.1°C). In conclusion, anti-aging therapy with V-EMF causes a thermal increase on orthodontic brackets that is not harmful to pulp health.

PERSONAL PROPER NAME IN LITERARY TEXT TO DEPRESENT THE EXTERNAL AND INNER WORLD OF A PERSON

The article gives an interpretation of the term "proper name", defines the types of nouns in the literary text, and examines how the external and internal world of a person is described through the name of a person. Factual material -based on the works of Russian writers, describing a person's appearance through a personal name is an important element of Russian fiction. The analysis of Russian personal names in the texts taken from the works of Russian writers shows that carefully selected names of heroes can serve as an important tool in the development of the inner world, moral qualities and character.

Culture and Morality in the Nineteenth Century: The Origins of Modern European Tolerance

This publication aims to analyze the economic, social, and cultural phenomena that first appeared in the "era of revolutions" that occurred in the nineteenth to early twentieth centuries. The modern European trend toward tolerance, which is the basis of current social and cultural changes, including in our country, has specific intellectual grounds. The subject of the study was the ideosphere of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, including philosophical, economic, and psychological concepts that gave rise to modern trends in these areas. The result of this study was the determination of the reasons that caused the change of the ideological paradigm in Europe. The novelty of the research lies in the fact that, for the first time, the intellectual foundations of the formation of tolerance as an actual socio-cultural phenomenon are analyzed. This article consistently proves that among the first such grounds, it is possible to determine the emergence of machine production and, as a result, the appearance of a mass person with a culture corresponding to them, performing a compensatory and entertaining function. The most important cultural foundation is mainly the intellectual "background" created by the teachings of Friedrich Nietzsche, Karl Marx, and Sigmund Freud. The ideas of Anglo-American pragmatism played a significant role in forming a new morality, which included the denial of religion and its values, giving it a utilitarian character. During the subsequent historical period and at present, these views have become the basis for the creation of the so-called "individual faith," in which religion ceases to be the guide of human life but only serves the needs of the individual. The desacralization of religion leads to the study of different aspects of sexuality, which opens up the possibility for modern thinking about gender. The concept of "natural law" should also be attributed to the intellectual factors of the formation of modern European tolerance.

Female Teenagers and Young Adults: Self-Presentation Trends on Instagram

The widespread use of the Internet has played a significant role in the popularity of social media platforms. Among these, the global phenomenon of Instagram stands out, serving as one of the vital means of communication across the world. Particularly among teenagers and young adults, social media has become an integral part of daily life, facilitating interactions and self-expression. Teens and young adults, who often prioritize peer approval, physical appearance, and self-representation, are drawn to social networking sites (SNS) due to the opportunities they offer for connecting with peers and exploring their identity within a social context. As the use of social networking sites among youths has surged, researchers have taken an interest in how visual images can be employed to portray oneself on these platforms. Hence, this current study aims to delve into the self-presentation of female teens and young adults through their photos, specifically focusing on Instagram. A total of 40 participants fitting the criteria of being female, aged between 12 to 17 (teenagers) and aged 18 to 25 (young adults), residing in urban areas, and active users of Instagram, were selected. Analysing 200 images from these participants, the study employed Kress and van Leeuwen's (1996, 2006) semiotic analysis framework to decode the visual aspects. The study's outcomes revealed some comparisons of online trends in self-presentation on Instagram between the two age groups; teenagers and young adults. Age emerged as a key factor influencing the self-presentation patterns within these groups.

The impact of social media on women's physical appearance and self-esteem: A feminist perspective

This research paper investigates the impact of social media on women's physical appearance and self-esteem from a feminist perspective. Social media platforms have become pervasive in modern society, shaping beauty standards and influencing women's perceptions of themselves. Through a feminist lens, this paper examines how social media perpetuates unrealistic beauty ideals, fosters body dissatisfaction, and contributes to negative self-perception among women. Additionally, it explores the ways in which feminist movements and digital activism on social media challenge these harmful narratives and promote body positivity, self-acceptance, and inclusivity. By analysing the interplay between social media, feminism, and women's physical appearance, this paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between technology, gender, and self-esteem.

Ayurvedic intervention with Pachana Aushadhi and Lekhan Basti in Obesity: A case study

In the 21st century, the prevalence of lifestyle disorders has surged, exacerbated by sedentary habits and increased stress, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has led to a substantial rise in cases of Sthaulya, affecting approximately one-third of the global population with overweight or obese. Obesity, a complex and multifaceted disease, has tripled in global prevalence since 1980, impacting diverse age groups, genders, and socio-economic strata. Although rates have plateaued in some developed nations, the consequences of obesity extend beyond physical appearance, causing both physical and mental harm and significantly affecting overall quality of life. Furthermore, obesity serves as a precursor to various secondary health conditions, including but not limited to diabetes, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, dyslipidemia, and more. Ayurveda classifies Athisthaulya as one of the eight undesirable conditions under Ashtanindita purusha. It arises from the vitiation of Kapha dosha, Vata dosha, and Medo dhatu, aligning with the contemporary understanding of obesity as a chronic metabolic disorder. Ayurveda's holistic approach, incorporating Pachana chikitsa and Lekhana basti, shows promise in managing Sthaulya. This case study involves a 52-year-old female patient with a weight of 112 kg and a BMI of 41.1. Over 30 days, the patient underwent a comprehensive Ayurvedic management plan, including Pachana aushadhi for 7 days and Lekhana basti for 21 days. The outcome demonstrated a significant weight loss of 11 kg, reducing her weight to 101 kg. and achieving a BMI of 37.1 without complications. This case underscores the potential of Ayurvedic interventions in addressing the challenges of obesity.

Formulation and evaluation of medicated polyherbal tattoo ink

Transdermal tattoos offer a potential avenue for administering drugs externally into the dermis, resulting in the creation of a lasting mark. Analyzing complex samples is crucial to assess the presence of ingredients, ensuring the safety of cosmetic products that contribute to health protection. This investigation aims to formulate and assess tattoo ink for treating allergies and inflammation. The study proposes a comprehensive analytical approach, encompassing physical appearance, homogeneity, pH, spreadability, viscosity, and antibacterial evaluation to characterize samples of henna and annatto. Standardizing herbal formulations is imperative to evaluate drug quality based on the concentration of active principles. This paper focuses on the standardization of Henna (Lawsonia inermis Linn) from the Lythraceae family and Annatto from the plant Bixa Orellana. Annatto, known for its lower toxicity and improved biodegradability, can be extracted using water or organic solvents to obtain pigment, tocotrienol, and geranylgeraniol components. These compounds exhibit antibacterial activity, inhibit certain types of cancer, and demonstrate hypocholesterolemic effects, among other properties.

Spaceflight effects on human vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype and function

The cardiovascular system is strongly impacted by the hazards of spaceflight. Astronauts spending steadily increasing lengths of time in microgravity are subject to cardiovascular deconditioning resulting in loss of vascular tone, reduced total blood volume, and diminished cardiac output. Appreciating the mechanisms by which the cells of the vasculature are altered during spaceflight will be integral to understanding and combating these deleterious effects as the human presence in space advances. In this study, we performed RNA-Seq analysis coupled with review by QIAGEN Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software on human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) cultured for 3 days in microgravity and aboard the International Space Station to assess the transcriptomic changes that occur during spaceflight. The results of our RNA-Seq analysis show that SMCs undergo a wide range of transcriptional alteration while in space, significantly affecting 4422 genes. SMCs largely down-regulate markers of the contractile, synthetic, and osteogenic phenotypes including smooth muscle alpha actin (αSMA), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs). Additionally, components of several cellular signaling pathways were strongly impacted including the STAT3, NFκB, PI3K/AKT, HIF1α, and Endothelin pathways. This study highlights the significant changes in transcriptional behavior SMCs exhibit during spaceflight and puts these changes in context to better understand vascular function in space.

Variants in mitochondrial disease genes are common causes of inherited peripheral neuropathies.

Peripheral neuropathies in mitochondrial disease are caused by mutations in nuclear genes encoding mitochondrial proteins, or in the mitochondrial genome. Whole exome or genome sequencing enable parallel testing of nuclear and mtDNA genes, and it has significantly advanced the genetic diagnosis of inherited diseases. Despite this, approximately 40% of all Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) cases remain undiagnosed. The genome-phenome analysis platform (GPAP) in RD-Connect was utilised to create a cohort of 2087 patients with at least one Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) term suggestive of a peripheral neuropathy, from a total of 10,935 patients. These patients' genetic data were then analysed and searched for variants in known mitochondrial disease genes. A total of 1,379 rare variants were identified, 44 of which were included in this study as either reported pathogenic or likely causative in 42 patients from 36 families. The most common genes found to be likely causative for an autosomal dominant neuropathy were GDAP1 and GARS1. We also detected heterozygous likely pathogenic variants in DNA2, MFN2, DNM2, PDHA1, SDHA, and UCHL1. Biallelic variants in SACS, SPG7, GDAP1, C12orf65, UCHL1, NDUFS6, ETFDH and DARS2 and variants in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-encoded MT-ATP6 and MT-TK were also causative for mitochondrial CMT. Only 50% of these variants were already reported as solved in GPAP. Variants in mitochondrial disease genes are frequent in patients with inherited peripheral neuropathies. Due to the clinical overlap between mitochondrial disease and CMT, agnostic exome or genome sequencing have better diagnostic yields than targeted gene panels.

Protein-altering variants at copy number-variable regions influence diverse human phenotypes

Copy number variants (CNVs) are among the largest genetic variants, yet CNVs have not been effectively ascertained in most genetic association studies. Here we ascertained protein-altering CNVs from UK Biobank whole-exome sequencing data (n = 468,570) using haplotype-informed methods capable of detecting subexonic CNVs and variation within segmental duplications. Incorporating CNVs into analyses of rare variants predicted to cause gene loss of function (LOF) identified 100 associations of predicted LOF variants with 41 quantitative traits. A low-frequency partial deletion of RGL3 exon 6 conferred one of the strongest protective effects of gene LOF on hypertension risk (odds ratio = 0.86 (0.82–0.90)). Protein-coding variation in rapidly evolving gene families within segmental duplications—previously invisible to most analysis methods—generated some of the human genome’s largest contributions to variation in type 2 diabetes risk, chronotype and blood cell traits. These results illustrate the potential for new genetic insights from genomic variation that has escaped large-scale analysis to date.

Good looks, mate value, flirting capacity, and choosiness: Exploring additional pathways to singlehood

Many individuals are single because they encounter difficulties in attracting an intimate partner. Various factors, such as flirting capacity and self-esteem, could potentially predict singlehood. However, these factors are interconnected and have indirect associations with singlehood. The current study has attempted to identify these associations by analyzing a database derived from a sample of 1,432 Greek-speaking participants. Our analysis examined singlehood in general as well as involuntary singlehood, separately for men and women. Specifically, we have identified four pathways for women: 1) Higher mate value was associated with greater self-esteem, which, in turn, was associated with an increased flirting capacity. This was correlated with a higher probability of being in an intimate relationship rather than being single. 2) Furthermore, higher mate value was associated with increased self-esteem, which, in turn, was associated with greater choosiness. This was linked to a lower probability of being in an intimate relationship than being involuntarily single. 3) Additionally, higher scores in self-perceived good looks were associated with higher mate value, which, in turn, was associated with an enhanced flirting capacity. This was connected to a higher probability of being in an intimate relationship rather than being single. 4) Finally, higher scores in self-perceived good looks were associated with higher mate value, which, in turn, was associated with greater choosiness. This was associated with a lower probability of being in an intimate relationship than being single. On the other hand, no significant pathways were found for men.

Clinical Evaluation of the Safety and Tolerability of Film-Forming Sprays in Patients With Psoriasis and Eczema.

Background Treating dermatological pathologies under occlusion therapy is a popular adjunct, especially in thickened, lichenified areas of psoriasis where sustained contact with topical corticosteroids plays a pivotal role. Film-forming spray (FFS) can be a novel, alternate approach along with topical treatment in this area for carefully selected cases. This study aimed to evaluate the safety profile and physical characteristics of a novel formulation of an FFS in patients with psoriasis and eczema. Methods This open-label, multicentre, comparative study included subjects diagnosed with chronic plaque psoriasis requiring topical corticosteroid therapy or those with eczema necessitating its application and occlusion therapy. The study product was applied to two groups of subjects. For patients in group 1, the FFS was applied to the skin area affected by the dermatological condition, which was covered with ointment only. In the second group, the FFS was applied to the corresponding unaffected skin area. The FFS was applied for 60-90 seconds and was observed for two hours after the application. The subjects were evaluated for primary outcomes, including safety assessment, overall physical characteristics, and appearance of FFS from local skin effects. The secondary outcomes included physical appearance characteristics and overall patient satisfaction following the application of FFS at the target sites. Further statistical assessments were conducted using the SAS software version 9.4 (2023; SAS Institute Inc., Cary, North Carolina, United States). Result A total of 100 subjects were included in the study across 10 outpatient centers, of which 79% had psoriatic plaques and 21% had eczematous lesions. Primary outcomes showed a lack of appearance of clinical symptoms such as dryness, flakiness, or irritation. A total of 10% of subjects in group 1 had erythema, and 6% had a tingling sensation, which was transient and mild. The secondary outcomes showed that only 12% of subjects in Group 1 and 6% of subjects in Group 2 showed a feeling of stickiness at the application site. In group 1, 8% reported a cooling sensation, which disappeared in one and two minutes, and none experienced a cooling sensation in Group 2. The average drying time for FFS in subjects with dermatological conditions was 5.19 minutes compared to 1.51 minutes on unaffected skin. The film washability results indicated that 96% of subjects in group 1 reported complete removal in less than two minutes. At the end of the study period, the mean satisfaction scorewas8.99. No significant adverse events were reported in the patients. Conclusion This study highlights the potential application of a novel formulation of FFS as a safe and well-tolerated option for enhancing uniform skin coverage with the topical corticosteroid in patients affected with psoriasis and eczema.

Evaluating 3D Simulation Accuracy for Breast Augmentation Outcomes: A Volumetric and Surface Contour Analysis in Chinese Patients.

The use of three-dimensional imaging in breast augmentation with silicone implants has revolutionized the surgery planning process by providing detailed visualizations of expected post-surgical outcomes. This technology enhances the decision-making process, enabling patients to choose their implants with greater confidence and ultimately leading to higher satisfaction with the postoperative outcome. This study aims to assess the accuracy of 3D imaging simulations using the Canfield Vectra XT 3D system in predicting breast augmentation outcomes in Chinese patients, focusing on volume, surface contour, breast anterior-posterior (AP) Projection, and breast internal angle. Our study analyzed female patients who received breast augmentation, documenting their preoperative and three-month postoperative conditions with 3D Vectra XT system images. Exclusions were made for patients undergoing concurrent breast surgeries or those with tuberous or ptotic breasts, due to limitations of the imaging system. Implants used were either round textured or anatomically shaped cohesive silicone gel, inserted subpectorally through trans-axillary or inframammary incisions, based on personalized evaluations. A detailed comparison between preoperative simulations and actual postoperative outcomes was conducted, focusing on volume, surface contour, AP projection, and internal angle variations. Statistical significance was determined through paired T tests, P < 0.05. In the analysis of preoperative simulations for determining postoperative outcomes in breast surgery, our study involving 42 Chinese patients, a total of 84 breasts, was conducted. The results indicated a mean volumetric discrepancy of 21.5 ± 10.3 (SD) cubic centimeters between the simulated and actual postoperative outcomes, achieving an accuracy rate of 91.9%. The root mean square deviation for the breast surface geometry was calculated to be 4.5 ± 1.1 (SD) millimeters (mm), demonstrating a low variance between the predicted and observed outcomes. The investigation found no significant variations across any specific areas of the breast surface, highlighting the uniform accuracy of the simulations across the entire breast. Additionally, the mean differences in Anterior-Posterior (AP) projection and internal angle were determined to be 8.82 ± 5.64 mm and 0.48 ± 1.91 (SD) degrees, respectively. These findings collectively attest to the efficacy of preoperative simulations in accurately predicting the postoperative physical appearance of breasts, thereby providing a valuable tool for surgical planning and improving the consultation process for patients. The Canfield Vectra XT 3D system has proven to be remarkably accurate in predicting the volumetric outcomes of breast augmentation surgery, with an accuracy rate exceeding 91.9%. It stands as a valuable tool for surgeons and patients alike, enhancing the preoperative planning process by offering a realistic preview of surgical results. This advancement not only facilitates a deeper understanding and setting of realistic expectations for patients but also strengthens the communication between patients and surgeons, ultimately leading to higher satisfaction rates with the surgical outcomes. It also emphasizes the significance of detailed documentation and consent processes in protecting against legal repercussions. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Effects of a Bioengineered Allogeneic Cellularized Construct (BACC) on Primary Human Macrophage Phenotype.

The mechanisms behind the pro-healing effects of multicellular, bioengineered allogeneic cellularized constructs (BACC) are not known. Macrophages are key regulators of every phase of the wound healing process and the primary cells that mediate the response to biomaterials. It is hypothesized that cells within the BACC modulate macrophage behavior, which may contribute to the mechanism by which BACC promotes healing. To probe the influence of cells within the BACC compared to effects of the underlying collagen substrate, primary human macrophages are cultured in direct or indirect contact with BACC or with the same collagen substrate used in the BACC manufacturing. Macrophage phenotype is characterized over time via multiplex gene expression, protein secretion, multidimensional flow cytometry, and functional assays with fibroblasts and endothelial cells. The BACC causes macrophages to exhibit a predominately reparative phenotype over time compared to relevant collagen substrate controls, with multiple subpopulations expressing both pro-inflammatory and reparative markers. Conditioned media from macrophage-BACC co-cultures causes distinct effects on fibroblast and endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and network formation. Given the critical role of the reparative macrophage phenotype in wound healing, these results suggest that modulation of macrophage phenotype may be a critical part of the mechanisms behind BACC's pro-healing effects.