Relevant Indices Research Articles

Analysis of intense hydrological periods based on observed and estimated flow series at a reference station on the Paraná River, Argentina

The hydrological variability and especially extreme phenomena such as droughts and floods affect natural and human systems worldwide. The Paraná River sub-basin, belonging to the La Plata basin, is of great regional importance, and in recent years extreme events have been observed that have impacted socio-economic aspects of the community. This study compares the series of a relevant hydrological index, calculated from observed flows and unregulated contributions within Argentine territory, at the same reference station. Intense hydrological periods are analyzed in both cases, for droughts and excess water events, for subsequent comparison.

PreciDBPN: A customized deep learning approach for hourly precipitation downscaling in eastern China

Long-term series of high-resolution gridded precipitation datasets are essential for hydrological and meteorological research. Producing high-resolution precipitation data from regional models demands substantial computational resources and labor. Global Reanalyses offer long-term coverage and effectively capture annual and seasonal precipitation patterns. However, they have inadequate resolution and frequently have difficulties depicting extreme conditions. This study proposes an efficient and accurate approach for generating long-term series of high spatial and temporal resolution precipitation. It is achieved by leveraging deep learning techniques to integrate the fifth generation of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) global climate reanalysis (ERA5, 0.25°, hourly) data with high-resolution precipitation fusion datasets. Considering the heavy-tailed distribution of precipitation, we developed the PreciDBPN model structure, which combines a classification network with a super-resolution network and incorporates physically relevant indices into the model's input. We trained and evaluated the PreciDBPN and baseline models in eastern China using the China Meteorological Administration Land Data Assimilation System (CLDAS) precipitation dataset (0.0625°, hourly, 2017–2022). When compared to baseline methods and ERA5, our model excels in multiple metrics and provides a more precise representation of relative rainfall frequency. Independent verification was performed using station observations during the period of 2010–2015 when CLDAS data were unavailable. During this verification, the PreciDBPN demonstrated exceptional performance and greater robustness compared to the baseline models. Because our method can efficiently downscale precipitation and bias-correct reanalysis data using minimal computational resources, it can be used to generate high-resolution precipitation datasets (0.0625°, hourly) from 1979 to 2022 while correcting for heavy precipitation underestimations in reanalysis data.

Designing sulfide catalysts for H2S dissociation to H2 based on reaction descriptors and microkinetics

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a promising catalyst for the challenging transformation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) into sulfur and hydrogen (H2). However, a detailed understanding of its structure-function correlation still needs to be provided. We used density functional theory calculations to extract relevant reaction indexes (binding energies and free energy barriers) over different MoS2 surfaces. We used these indexes as inspiration in developing new catalysts and a microkinetic model to compare the results, extracting insights into the reaction mechanisms and surface coverages. The turnover frequencies obtained experimentally and through microkinetic modeling are analogous, validating our approach. The findings pave the way for developing more efficient H2S decomposition catalysts and establish a descriptor-based design for other metal sulfide catalysts.

Analysis of status quo on the outcome indexes in randomized controlled trials of acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome

To analyze the application and status quo of the outcome indexes in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) so as to provide a favorable reference for the construction of the core outcome set. RCTs of acupuncture for PCOS were searched in databases, i. e. CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed, PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science, from January 1st, 2018 to June 28th, 2023. The relevant outcome indexes were extracted, collected and analyzed to collate the index domains of acupuncture for PCOS. A total of 60 articles were included, involving 123 outcome indexes. The outcome indexes of the physical and chemical detection were the highest in frequency (65.79%), followed by the symptoms/signs (23.37%), safety events (4.02%), TCM syndrome (3.10%), quality of life (1.86%) and the long-term prognosis (1.86%). None of the RCTs included the indexes for the economic evaluation. Regarding the status quo of outcome indexes, the primary outcome index was not distinguished from secondary one, the types of outcome indexes were various, the effect evaluation was not specified, and the assessment of quality of life and safety was ignored. The status quo of the outcome indexes in RCTs of acupuncture for PCOS is not conducive to pooling and comparing the data and the results among the different trials. It is recommended to structure the core outcome index set consistent with the therapeutic characteristics of TCM so as to improve the standardization of the clinical design of acupuncture and the quality of evidence in the trials.

Mitigation of allergic asthma in mice: A compound mixture comprising luteolin, arbutin, and marmesin from Gerbera Piloselloides Herba by suppression of PI3K/Akt pathway

BackgroundGerberae Piloselloidis Herba (GPH) exhibits notable efficacy in alleviating allergic asthma. Previous studies in our research have identified a mixture of luteolin, arbutin, and marmesin as effective components of GPH in treating allergic asthma. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanism of these active components. MethodUsing an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma mouse model, various treatment groups were administered, including GPH, the active component mixture (termed "Mixture") containing luteolin, arbutin, and marmesin, and a positive drug (dexamethasone, DEX). Relevant indices were assessed, including behavioral characteristics, inflammatory cell counts, cytokine levels, histopathological examination of lung tissue, apoptosis, and expression of key proteins such as Caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, PI3K, p-PI3K, Akt, and p-Akt. The effect of the Mixture on the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was further verified using the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. ResultsThe Mixture significantly alleviated asthma symptoms, decreased IgE levels, cytokine levels (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and TNF-α), and the number of inflammatory cells in serum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), leading to the alleviation of lung pathological lesions. Additionally, the Mixture reduced the expression of Bax and Caspase-3 while increasing Bcl-2 expression, resulting in mitigated apoptosis in lung tissue. Furthermore, there appeared a decrease in the levels of PI3K and p-PI3K, as well as the ratio of p-Akt to Akt in the Mixture group, indicating the suppression of PI3K and Akt phosphorylation. Interestingly, the effects of the Mixture were comparable to those of GPH, LY294002, or the combination of LY294002 with the Mixture. ConclusionThe study confirms that the Mixture containing luteolin, arbutin, and marmesin indeed alleviates allergic asthma induced by OVA in mice by suppressing the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. These findings highlight the potential of the GPH-derived Mixture as a novel therapeutic for the treatment of allergic asthma.

Identifying climatic risks and relevant adaptation strategies for selected smallholder farming regions, Limpopo Province, South Africa

ABSTRACT Due to low adaptive capacities and high reliance on weather-sensitive natural ecosystems for their livelihoods and food production, smallholder farmers are highly vulnerable to risks associated with climate change and variability. Such risks are location-specific; thus, to cope with them, smallholder farmers require tailored adaptation strategies. To support these farmers, this study aimed to identify climatic risks threatening sustainable smallholder farming in the Limpopo Province regions of Gavaza, Ga-Makanye and Giyani. Weather station records spanning up to 1980–2021 were used to identify climatic risks, for the October–April dryland maize growing season. Risks were identified based on temporal trends and/or interannual variability patterns for reference evapotranspiration and a suite of agriculturally relevant rainfall and temperature indices. Based on the identified risks, tailor-made adaptation strategies were devised for application by farmers within the study region. The results revealed the specific risks of growing seasons becoming shorter and increasingly hotter with highly irregular rainfall patterns. To adapt and improve agricultural productivity despite these prevailing climatic risks, farmers within the study region will benefit if they plant drought tolerant, early maturing and higher yielding crop varieties, apply soil water conservation techniques and make use of seasonal and daily weather forecasts to guide their decision-making.

Studies on the Preparation of a Microemulsion Formulation of Matricaria Recutita Essential Oil and the Treatment of 2,4-Dinitro-Chlorobenzene- Induced Eczema in Mice by Inhibiting Inflammation.

Eczema, an inflammatory skin disease causing intense itching, is a function of a range of internal and external factors, impacting individuals of all ages and leading to economic loss. Inflammation is the most important manifestation of eczema, and Matricaria recutita essential oil (MREO) extracted from Matricaria recutita possesses excellent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, Matricaria recutita microemulsions were prepared by the trans-phase emulsification method and their stability was determined by evaluating the relevant indexes. Establishment of 2,4-dinitro-chlorobenzene-induced AD model in mice. Detection of serum indexes of IL-6, IL-17, and TNF-α, and on pathological tissue sections, the HE staining, toluidine blue staining, immunohistochemistry, and observation were performed. The study obtained optimal conditions for the preparation of microemulsion formulations of Matricaria recutita. Through quality evaluation, it was found that the microemulsion increased stability, reduced irritation, and retained anti-inflammatory activity and therapeutic effects on eczema compared to Matricaria recutita essential oil (MREO). Studies have demonstrated that microemulsion formulations of Matricaria recutita and Matricaria recutita significantly down regulate the proinflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-6. It was shown by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining that both Matricaria recutita essential oil (MREO) and Matricaria recutita microemulsion (MRME) improved the inflammatory status of eczematous skin tissues in mice. The number of mast cells expressed in the tissues was decreased in the surface-treated group, as shown by toluidine blue staining. Additionally, the number of mast cells expressed in the tissues in the surface-treated group was reduced, as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry revealed that MREO and MRME have immunomodulatory effects on the tissues. The study showed that microemulsion formulations of Matricaria recutita may serve as a novel remedy for eczema.

Effectiveness of Remimazolam Benzenesulfonate Combined with Alfentanil in Elderly Patients Undergoing Painless Gastroenteroscopy

Objective: To observe the effects of remimazolam benzenesulfonate combined with alfentanil during painless gastroenteroscopy in elderly patients. Methods: This study analyzes patients aged 60–85 years old undergoing painless gastroenteroscopy. A total of 140 patients, examined between February 2023 and February 2024, voluntarily participated and were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. The control group received alfentanil combined with propofol for anesthesia, while the experimental group received alfentanil combined with remimazolam benzenesulfonate. The relevant indices of both groups were separately analyzed. Results: Patients in the experimental group had a shorter awakening time, a faster discharge rate (P < 0.05), and a shorter examination duration; however, the difference in examination time between the two groups was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Before anesthesia, there was no significant difference in the basic information and vital signs of the two groups (P > 0.05). Two minutes after anesthesia, both groups showed a decline in vital signs, but the vital signs of the experimental group remained more stable after the procedure, with the group’s indices showing improvement over the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the incidence of adverse reactions in the experimental group was lower than in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In painless gastroenteroscopy for elderly patients, anesthesia using a combination of remimazolam benzenesulfonate and alfentanil improves anesthesia effectiveness, hastens patient recovery, enhances the stability of vital signs, and effectively controls adverse reactions, thereby improving patient comfort.

Correlation of hysteroscopic findings of chronic endometritis with CD138 immunohistochemistry and their correlation with pregnancy outcomes.

To investigate the correlation between hysteroscopic findings of chronic endometritis and CD138 immunohistochemistry positive in endometritis and to analyze the pregnancy outcomes and associated risk factors following embryo transfer in women diagnosed with chronic endometritis via hysteroscopy. A retrospective observational study carried out at the Reproductive Medicine Center of Tangdu Hospital of Air Force Medical University, from January 2021 to December 2021, was performed by obtaining data from 194 medical records of women who underwent hysteroscopies for infertility and were diagnosed with chronic endometritis based on Delphi criteria. Spearman correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between hysteroscopic findings and endometrial CD138 immunohistochemistry. The study also observed the differences in relevant indexes between the CD138-positive and CD138-negative groups after embryo transfer and analyzed factors influencing implantation failure using logistic regression analysis. The correlation analysis between hysteroscopic findings and CD138 immunohistochemistry showed that micropolyps were correlated with CD138 immunohistochemistry positivity. The correlation coefficient was 0.32 (P < 0.01). After embryo transfer, the clinical pregnancy rate of the CD138-positive group was lower compared to that of the CD138-negative group [64.79% (46/71) vs. 81.30% (100/123), P < 0.05]. The results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age (P = 0.43) and CD138 immunohistochemistry positivity (P = 0.008) were the independent risk factors for predicting whether or not embryo implantation was successful. Hysteroscopic findings do not correlate strongly with endometrial CD138 immunohistochemistry, and chronic endometritis cannot be diagnosed by hysteroscopy alone. CD138 immunohistochemistry positivity is an independent factor contributing to the decrease in clinical pregnancy rate following embryo transfer.

Publisher's Note: Correction of article number for Ling et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 094002

Due to an editorial error, an incorrect article number was assigned to the Plasma Science and Technology article 'Effect of liquid surface depression size on discharge characteristics and chemical distribution in the plasma-liquid anode system' by Yun Ling et al. The original article number was 094000, however the correct citation is:Yun LING et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 094002The DOI of the article is unchanged: https://doi.org/10.1088/2058-6272/ad2b38 The relevant abstracting and indexing services have been informed.

Publisher's Note: Correction of article number for Wang et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 094007

Due to an editorial error, an incorrect article number was assigned to the Plasma Science and Technology article 'Enhanced degradation of tetracycline by gas-liquid discharge plasma coupled with g-C3N4/TiO2' by Zhenhai Wang et al. The original article number was 004000, however the correct citation is:Zhenhai WANG et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 094007The DOI of the article is unchanged: https://doi.org/10.1088/2058-6272/ad5df2 The relevant abstracting and indexing services have been informed.

Publisher's Note: Correction of article number for Wen et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 095102

Due to an editorial error, an incorrect article number was assigned to the Plasma Science and Technology article 'Progress of the bolometer diagnosticsystem on EAST' by Wen Wen et al. The original article number was 005100, however the correct citation is:Wen WEN et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 095102The DOI of the article is unchanged: https://doi.org/10.1088/2058-6272/ad51cf The relevant abstracting and indexing services have been informed.

Publisher's Note: Correction of article number for Han et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 095502

Due to an editorial error, an incorrect article number was assigned to the Plasma Science and Technology article 'Research on batch multielement rapid quantitative analysis based on the standard curve-assisted calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy method' by Weiwei Han et al. The original article number was 000000, however the correct citation is:Weiwei HAN et al 2024 Plasma Sci. Technol. 26 095502The DOI of the article is unchanged: https://doi.org/10.1088/2058-6272/ad5119 The relevant abstracting and indexing services have been informed.

Efficacy of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei fermented milk on a model of constipation induced by loperamide hydrochloride in BALB/c mice.

Currently, most studies focus on the functions of probiotic-fermented milk, whereas there are relatively few studies on the function of postbiotic-fermented milk in relieving constipation. In this study, we aimed to assess the modulation of constipation symptoms and its mechanism of action by different concentrations of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei-fermented milk as a postbiotic in a loperamide hydrochloride-induced constipation model in BALB/c mice. By comparing the relevant indexes, colon histological analysis, gene expression level, and intestinal flora structure in the constipation model of mice, we found that high and ultra-high doses of fermented milk can effectively relieve constipation. Fermented milk effectively reduced defecation time, increased the rate of small intestinal propulsion in constipated mice, and alleviated colonic inflammation, safeguarding the normal function of the intestinal tract. In addition, it can regulate the intestinal flora, downregulate the abundance of Proteobacteria, upregulate the abundance of species of Firmicutes and Actinobacteriota, and improve the overall abundance level of intestinal flora in mice.

Analysing the evolving effectiveness of monetary policy instruments in China: insights from the TVP-SV-MF-bfavar framework

ABSTRACT The application of monetary policy rules requires careful consideration across different macroeconomic stages. As the largest developing nation, China has undergone significant economic reforms over the past few decades, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of various monetary policy rules at different stages of development. This study introduces an innovative research framework, the TVP-SV-MF-BFAVAR model, and employs mixed-frequency data (quarterly, monthly, daily) spanning 20 years to construct relevant proxy indices. It empirically examines the evolving trends in the effectiveness of price-based and quantity-based monetary policy rules in China. The findings indicate that as the economy matures and interest rate marketization progresses, the effectiveness of price-based monetary policy has improved, while quantity-based measures remain reliable policy instruments. Moreover, the effectiveness of monetary policy rules exhibits distinct time-varying characteristics in response to macroeconomic fluctuations, suggesting the need for policy adjustments across different economic stages. Developing nations should actively promote interest rate marketization reforms to foster an enabling environment for the effective implementation of monetary policy.

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model of voriconazole in human CNS—Integrating time-dependent inhibition of CYP3A4, genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C19 and possible transporter mechanisms

ObjectivesVoriconazole is a classical antifungal drug that is often used to treat CNS fungal infections due to its permeability through the BBB. However, its clinical use remains challenging because of its narrow therapeutic window and wide inter-individual variability. In this study, we proposed an optimised and validated PBPK model by integrating in vitro, in vivo and clinical data to simulate the distribution and PK process of voriconazole in the CNS, providing guidance for clinical individualised treatment. MethodsThe model structure was optimised and tissue-to-plasma partition coefficients were obtained through animal experiments. Using the allometric relationships, the distribution of voriconazole in the human CNS was predicted. The model integrated factors affecting inter-individual variation and drug interactions of voriconazole—polymorphisms in the CYP2C19 gene and auto-inhibition and then was validated using real clinical data. ResultsThe overall AFE value showing model predicted differences was 1.1420 in the healthy population; and in the first prediction of plasma and CSF in actual clinical patients, 89.5% of the values were within the 2-fold error interval, indicating good predictive performance of the model. The bioavailability of voriconazole varied at different doses (39%-86%), and the optimised model conformed to this pattern (46%–83%). ConclusionsCombined with the relevant pharmacodynamic indexes, the PBPK model provides a feasible way for precise medication in patients with CNS infection and improve the treatment effect and prognosis.

Device-measured physical activity and cardiac structure by magnetic resonance.

Although extreme cardiac adaptions mirroring phenotypes of cardiomyopathy have been observed in endurance athletes, adaptions to high levels of physical activity within the wider population are under-explored. Therefore, in this study, associations between device-measured physical activity and clinically relevant cardiac magnetic resonance volumetric indices were investigated. Individuals without known cardiovascular disease or hypertension were included from the UK Biobank. Cardiac magnetic resonance data were collected between 2015 and 2019, and measures of end-diastolic chamber volume, left ventricular (LV) wall thickness, and LV ejection fraction were extracted. Moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), vigorous-intensity physical activity (VPA), and total physical activity were assessed via wrist-worn accelerometers. A total of 5977 women (median age and MVPA: 62 years and 46.8 min/day, respectively) and 4134 men (64 years and 49.8 min/day, respectively) were included. Each additional 10 min/day of MVPA was associated with a 0.70 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.62, 0.79] mL/m2 higher indexed LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDVi) in women and a 1.08 (95% CI: 0.95, 1.20) mL/m2 higher LVEDVi in men. However, even within the top decile of MVPA, LVEDVi values remained within the normal ranges [79.1 (95% CI: 78.3, 80.0) mL/m2 in women and 91.4 (95% CI: 90.1, 92.7) mL/m2 in men]. Associations with MVPA were also observed for the right ventricle and the left/right atria, with an inverse association observed for LV ejection fraction. Associations of MVPA with maximum or average LV wall thickness were not clinically meaningful. Results for total physical activity and VPA mirrored those for MVPA. High levels of device-measured physical activity were associated with cardiac remodelling within normal ranges.

Quasi-static tests of full-scale precast canopy beam-column joints with UHPC-filled grouted corrugated ducts connection

The traditional reinforced concrete canopy using cast-in-place (CIP) technology, is associated with problems such as long construction period, high environmental pollution, and low construction quality. Prefabricated assembly technology, due to its modern and highly industrialized characteristics, provides a promising solution to address the mentioned challenges. In this study, an innovative Ultra High-Performance concrete (UHPC)-filled grouted corrugated duct connection (UGCDC) approach was introduced for prefabricated canopy beam-column joints, considering the structural characteristics of the canopy. To evaluate the seismic behavior of canopy beam-column joints utilizing the UGCDC method, three comprehensive full-scale quasi-static experiments were conducted. Meanwhile, relevant seismic behavior indexes were extracted from the hysteresis curve, and the seismic performance of canopy joints was assessed by analyzing the effects of different research parameters on seismic behavior indicators. In addition, based on the OpenSees platform, a fiber finite element model (FEM) was established that incorporated the bond-slip behavior at the UGCDC joint. The research results indicated that the seismic behavior of canopy beam-column joints using UGCDC is basically consistent with that of CIP joints, and setting a shear key in UGCDC joints can improve ductility by 22.4 %. In terms of bearing capacity, there is not much difference among the three specimens, but in terms of initial stiffness, the specimen using UGCDC and shear key and the specimen using UGCDC have increased by 6.0 % and 9.6 % compared to CIP specimen, respectively. The developed FEM can predict the hysteresis characteristic of canopy joints using UGCDC. UGCDC method is a reliable connection form for canopy beam-column connection joint, which is suitable for medium to high intensity earthquake areas. Finally, a seismic performance assessment method of prefabricated canopy beam-column joints using UGCDC was proposed.

Dietary resveratrol supplementation alleviates cold exposure-induced pyroptosis and inflammation in broiler heart by modulating oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress

To explore the potential protective effect of resveratrol (RES) on cold-exposed broilers, 360 21-day-old broilers were equally divided into 5 groups with 6 replicates. A control (CON) group was reared at the normal feeding temperature and received a basal diet, and 4 cold exposure (8 ± 1°C for 10 h/d from d 29 to 42) groups were fed the basal diet with 0 (CE), 250 (CE + RES250), 500 (CE + RES500), and 750 (CE + RES750) mg/kg RES from d 22 to 42. Broilers were slaughtered on d 42 and heart tissues were collected to measure the relevant indexes. The results showed that heart tissues of all CE-broilers had inflammatory cell infiltrations, and dietary RES supplementation reduced this phenomenon. Compared to CON group, the concentrations of MDA and H2O2 were increased and activities of SOD and CAT were decreased in all CE-broilers (P < 0.05). mRNA expression of genes related to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (GRP78, IRE1, PERK, EIF-2α, ATF4, ATF6, and CHOP), pyroptosis (NLRP3, ASC, Caspase1, GSDME, IL-18, and IL-1β), and proinflammation (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-6) was upregulated and that of ant-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) was downregulated in CE and all CE + RES groups compared to CON group (P < 0.05). Compared to CE group, the activities of SOD and CAT and mRNA expression of anti-inflammatory genes were increased (P < 0.05), and concentrations of MDA and H2O2 and mRNA expression of ER stress, pyroptosis and proinflammatory genes were reduced (P < 0.05) in 3 CE + RES groups. Additionally, protein levels of PERK, ATF4, CHOP, NLRP3, Caspase1, GSDMD, IL-18, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10 were similar in their mRNA expression. Overall, cold exposure caused oxidative stress and ER stress, and induced pyroptosis and inflammatory response, resulting in heart injury in broilers, and dietary RES addition reduced heart damage by enhancing antioxidant defense function. This study indicates that RES can be a feed additive to alleviate cold exposure-induced heart injury in broilers, and a 500 mg RES/kg diet is the optimal supplemental level.

Auricular growth potential of patients with concha-type microtia after auricular cartilage stretching surgery: A prospective study

BackgroundsFor patients with concha-type microtia, surgical intervention and the degree of deformity may affect the growth rate of auricular cartilage, which was also different at different ages. This study aimed to explore the auricular growth potential of patients with concha-type microtia at different ages after auricular cartilage stretching surgery. MethodsA total of 66 patients with unilateral grade II and III concha-type microtia were involved in this prospective cohort study. All patients underwent auricular cartilage stretching surgery. Relevant data were collected before surgery, at immediate after surgery, and at the last follow-up. ResultsThe perimeter, width, and length of auricle, between each follow-up, was statistically significant, which supported the surgical effect and auricular development. For patients in grade II group, no statistical significance was found in the difference of perimeter, width, and length between the affected and the normal auricle. For the patients in grade III group, the difference of such relevant indexes of the affected auricle was significantly different from those of the normal auricle. Between subgroups divided according to their age, the growth potential of affected auricle with the same degree of deformity was statistically significant. ConclusionsGrowth potential of the affected auricle of grade II group was consistent with that of the normal auricle, which was significantly higher than that of grade III group. For patients at different ages, auricles grew faster before 3 years. Surgical intervention improved the auricular aesthetics and released the auricular growth potential, which had better be recommend as early as possible.