Thread Technique Research Articles

An innovative approach for cluster head selection and Energy Optimization in wireless sensor networks using Zebra Fish and Sea Horse Optimization techniques

In recent times, Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have become an indispensable technology across various industries, offering diverse applications and services. Among the crucial performance metrics for WSNs, optimal cluster head (CH) selection and energy efficiency are paramount for cost-effective network operations. This paper proposes a novel approach for WSNs that tackles both challenges using Zebra Fish Optimization (ZFO) and Sea Horse Optimization (SHO) algorithms. The proposed approach focuses on dynamic cluster formation and CH selection. The ZFO algorithm, enhanced with a new multi-level threading technique, dynamically selects the most suitable CH based on a fitness function. Subsequently, the SHO algorithm, equipped with an innovative adaptive parameter tuning mechanism, optimizes energy consumption within the network. This two-phased approach ensures balanced performance. Performance evaluation is validated using key metrics like packet delivery ratio (PDR), throughput, network lifetime, and residual energy. Experimental results and statistical analysis demonstrate that the proposed hybrid scheme outperforms existing popular algorithms in all these metrics. The improvements range from 1.8 % to 6.9 % for PDR, 6.7 % to 24 % for throughput, 1.86 % to 7.40 % for network lifetime, and 9.65 % to 37.95 % for residual energy. These advancements are attributed to the innovative modifications introduced in both ZFO and SHO algorithms, ultimately contributing to the enhanced performance of the entire system.

Analısıs Kualıtatıf Rhodamın B pada Perona Mata (Eyeshadow) yang Beredar dı Toko Kosmetık Kota Tarakan

Both adults and teenagers often use eyeshadow as a common cosmetic. The paint and textile industry often uses a red synthetic dye known as rhodamine B. Apart from having carcinogenic properties, continued use of rhodamine B can cause liver problems and gastrointestinal irritation which has the potential to hurt health. This research aims to answer the problem, of whether or not eyeshadow preparations sold in Tarakan City beauty shops contain Rhodamine B. The method in this research uses a wool thread technique and a rhodamine B rapid test kit to carry out qualitative analysis using eleven samples. The results showed that of the eleven eyeshadow samples examined at the Tarakan City cosmetics shop, three samples experienced a color change from red to dark red or purplish. Two of the eyeshadows are not registered, while one is registered with BPOM. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that three of the eleven eyeshadow samples tested positive for rhodamine B.

Computational exploration of the genomic assignments, molecular structure, and dynamics of the ccdABXn 2 toxin-antitoxin homolog with its bacterial target, the DNA gyrase, in the entomopathogen Xenorhabdus nematophila

Toxin-antitoxin (TA) modules, initially discovered on bacterial plasmids and subsequently identified within chromosomal contexts, hold a pivotal role in the realm of bacterial physiology. Among these, the pioneering TA system, ccd (Control of Cell Death), primarily localized on the F-plasmid, is known for its orchestration of plasmid replication with cellular division. Nonetheless, the precise functions of such systems within bacterial chromosomal settings remain a compelling subject that demands deeper investigation. To bridge this knowledge gap, our study focuses on exploring ccdABXn2 , a chromosomally encoded TA module originating from the entomopathogenic bacterium Xenorhabdus nematophila. We meticulously delved into the system’s genomic assignments, structural attributes, and functional interplay. Our findings uncovered intriguing patterns—CcdB toxin homologs exhibited higher conservation levels compared to their CcdA antitoxin counterparts. Moreover, we constructed secondary as well as tertiary models for both the CcdB toxin and CcdA antitoxin using threading techniques and subsequently validated their structural integrity. Our exploration extended to the identification of key interactions, including the peptide interaction with gyrase for the CcdB homolog and CcdB toxin interactions for the CcdA homolog, highlighting the intricate TA interaction network. Through docking and simulation analyses, we unequivocally demonstrated the inhibition of replication via binding the CcdB toxin to its target, DNA gyrase. These insights provide valuable knowledge about the metabolic and physiological roles of the chromosomally encoded ccdABXn 2 TA module within the context of X. nematophila, significantly enhancing our comprehension of its functional significance within the intricate ecosystem of the bacterial host. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Application of the suture needle retrograde threading method in scleral fixation of intraocular lenses

BackgroundHere we described a new threading technique for the universal fixation of any posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL).MethodsTwenty-seven eyes of 27 patients whose surgery done by Surgeon A with the needle-guided method or the suture needle retrograde threading (SNRT) method for intrascleral IOL fixation were enrolled in the first group. Thirty-four eyes of 34 patients whose surgery done by Surgeon A, Surgeon B or Surgeon C with the SNRT method for intrascleral IOL fixation were grouped into three sub-groups by surgeon. Information regarding age, sex, best-available visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), past ophthalmological history, threading time (from puncturing to externalizing suture) and complications during and after the surgery were gathered.ResultsThe analysis showed that the threading time was less in the SNRT group than needle-guided group by Surgeon A. There was one eye with suture needle slipping from the guide needle when guiding out of the eye. The threading procedure was completed one time without suture ruptures or loop slippage in the SNRT group operated by Surgeon A. And using the SNRT method, Surgeon A, Surgeon B, and Surgeon C did not show any significant difference in threading time. No complications (e.g., vitreous hemorrhage, hyphemia, retinal detachment, suprachoroidal hemorrhage, or hypotony) were observed during surgery or postoperatively in all cases. No leakage occurred at the site of the puncture after the operation.ConclusionsThe described technique appears to be a safe, simple, easy-to-learn, and universal surgical method, which is suitable for various types of IOLs.

Minimally invasive ultrasound-assisted cutting thread tenotomy of the deep digital flexor tendon in horses: An ex vivo study.

To evaluate the feasibility and limitations associated with a minimally invasive ultrasound-assisted cutting thread technique for tenotomy of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) in horses. Ex vivo study. Twenty cadaveric forelimbs. Forelimbs were placed on a jig to mimic a standing semiflexed position and the midmetacarpal region was prepared to perform tenotomy of the DDFT using a percutaneous technique with a cutting thread. For that purpose, the thread was placed percutaneously around the DDFT (first dorsally and then palmarly) with the aid of a curved 20 gauge spinal needle. Tendon palpation/manipulation and ultrasonographic assessment assisted thread placement. Procedure time and skin puncture size were recorded. Limbs were then dissected to evaluate the degree of DDFT transection and the presence of any iatrogenic lesions. The DDFT was completely transected in all cases. Minor lesions of the superficial digital flexor tendon were found in 11/20 limbs and considered clinically irrelevant. However, the neurovascular bundle was damaged in 6/20 limbs (four limbs had nerve damage and two limbs had a nerve and either a palmar artery or vein damaged). The skin puncture hole sizes ranged from undetectable to 5 mm long. The average duration of the procedure was 7 min and 38 s (range: 4 min 56 s to 10 min 19 s). A DDFT tenotomy can be performed reliably with a percutaneous cutting thread technique. However, refinement of the technique is required to minimize iatrogenic damage. The reported technique allows a DDFT tenotomy to be performed in a minimally invasive manner and has the potential to be clinically applicable.

A novel technique for repositioning facial soft tissues with barbed polydioxanone threads based on the main aging vector force of rejuvenation

Background: With the evolution of facial rejuvenation procedures, thread lifts have gained space among western patients who seek cosmetic improvement without undergo to surgeries. Absorbable wedge-shaped polydioxanone (PDO) sutures are currently available, and in mid-lower face and mandibular jowl lift, threads are most often implanted in a diagonal vector force from medial-inferior up to lateral-superior site, near the temple. Herein, the authors introduce a new technique based on this oblique sum of anti-aging vector force to reposition and anchorage facial soft tissues, aimed for natural youth rejuvenation. Objective: Describe a novel technique for counteracting the facial ptosis and laxity skin, as well as the duration of clinical lifting result and of skin quality improvement. Methods: More than 84 patients were underwent in this thread technique once. The outcomes were assessed objectively using serial photography and subjectively based on the patients’ spontaneous satisfaction through over these 4 years. Complications were also reported. Results: Most patients considered the results satisfactory. The incidence of complications was low, and most of them were minor and temporary. Conclusion: Wedge-shaped PDO thread repositioning and anchorage soft tissue is safe and effective method for rejuvenation.

Effect of pdo facelift threads on facial skin tissues: An ultrasonographic analysis.

Recent studies demonstrate that PDO threads, after being introduced into the facial skin, provide benefits due to collagen formation around the thread and improved vascularization. This work aims to report the ultrasound and photographic follow-up after the execution of the facelift thread technique, thus evaluating the anti-aging treatment that PDO threads will provide for human facial skin. The facelift will be performed using PDO thread 18G cannulated Sculpt i- Thread FML 100 × 185 mm, and 29G PDO thread Needled Flat i-Thread 38 × 50 mm. A total of 10 patients were selected for the study; all of them had medium-grade facial ptosis and aged 40-50 years old. In order to control tissue changes after thread, insertion ultrasound measurements will be made with Philips ultrasound 12 MHz linear probe at maximum resolution, initial evaluations and control of 30, 60, 90, and 120 days, measuring the skin layers: epidermis\dermis and hypodermis. Photographic control was performed before and after 120 days of intrusion of the PDO threads. The formation of collagen around the PDO thread was evidenced through ultrasound images in all patients in this study, as well as improvement in the appearance of the skin and sagging, evaluated by photographic control. We can define that the PDO threads used for the facelift are effective in the formation of collagen around the thread (observed through the increase in the dermal layer), and improvement of the condition of the anti-aging factor through sagging skin, vascularization and thinning of the superficial fat layer (observed through the reduction of the subcutaneous or hypodermis layer).

Protocols on correction of signs of undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia using hardware and injection techniques in cosmetic patients

Undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (UCTD) is a genetically determined condition with a progressive course characterized by defects in the fibrous structures and the basic connective tissue substance, leading to impaired formation of organs and systems, which determines the features of the associated pathology, as well as the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs. In dermatological and cosmetological practice, the issue of UCTD is very topical, as individual external presentations of the connective tissue dysmorphogenesis among young people can reach 85.4%. In recent decades, a real revolution has taken place in aesthetic medicine, which is associated with the emergence of new injectable products, development of hardware, cellular and thread techniques. Every year mew methods of treatment emerge and the existing ones are improved. Statistics of the past years show that minimally invasive non-surgical interventions are becoming more and more popular in all countries, their number significantly exceeds the number of surgical operations. To date, there are 2 groups of methods aimed at collagen stimulation: hardware techniques and injection methods. The effectiveness of the use of polylactic acid drugs as the first-line drugs for the correction of UCTD in order to prevent premature ageing was evaluated in the presented clinical cases. Patients with a cosmetology profile were treated according to the complex protocols that included amino acid replacement therapy, IV therapy, contour correction with drugs containing polylactic acid and hardware techniques (microneedle RF lifting with insulated and non-insulated needles, ultrasonic SMAS lifting, ablative laser techniques, Ipl-therapy). As a result, an algorithm for managing a patient with UCTD was developed in the cosmetology practice. The provided clinical cases show that the detection of signs of UCTD can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life and prevent premature aging.

The Current Art Combination of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Poly-D,L-Lactic Acid For Improvement of Deep Nasolabial Folds: A Case Report

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is blood plasma containing an above baseline level of platelets and growth factors. Recently, Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has come to the attention of aesthetic surgeons, with burgeoning new applications ranging from hair restoration to soft tissue augmentation. Injectable Poly-D,L-Lactic Acid (PDLLA) is a biostimulator rather than a traditional filler, which provides immediate volumetric improvement. Injectable PLA can produce a result comparable with Hyaluronic Acid fillers for the correction of wrinkles such as nasolabial folds, and can be a good choice for such a treatment. Methods: A Female 45 years Old with deep smile lines and fine wrinkles on cheeks. The patient was treated with injected of Poly(D,L Lactic Acid) and Platelet Rich Plasma. Poly-D,L-Lactic Acid was injected subdermal with retrograde linear thread technique and used 24-G cannula needle. After 3 weeks PDLLA Injection, PRP was injected intradermal into the whole face especially along the smile lines using a 32-G Needle at a dose of 0.05 ml at each injection site with a distance of about 0.5-1.0 cm. PRP was injected every 2 weeks for 3 months. Results: Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale was downgrading and skin quality like skin tone looks more brightening and fading hyperpigmentation. Conclusion: The combination of Poly-D,L-Lactic Acid and Platelet-Rich Plasma is effective for facial rejuvenation.

Microliposuction and radiofrequency combined with the thread technique as a new method used in lower face lifting.

Minimally invasive facial rejuvenation is a popular and well-established treatment for patients seeking facial lifting. The authors combined facial microliposuction, radiofrequency, and thread lifting technology as a comprehensive treatment (LRT) for facial rejuvenation in a case series of 57 patients. A total of 76 patients underwent surgery and 75% completed 6months of follow-up (57 patients); the patients were aged 26 to 51 (33.6 ± 4.5) years. All patients were followed up for hematoma within 1week after the operation and for skin numbness and muscle paralysis at 1week and 3months postoperatively. Patient satisfaction with the postoperative aesthetic effects was analyzed by Face-Q™ at 6months after the operation. The score for hematoma within 1week was 1.21 ± 0.33, scores for postoperative skin numbness within 1week and 3months were 2.06 ± 0.51 and 1.17 ± 0.32, respectively, and scores for postoperative muscle paralysis within 1week and 3months were 1.31 ± 0.55 and 1.00 ± 0, respectively. Fifty-seven patients completed Face-Q™ (score: 22.1 ± 1.8, standard score: 82.2 ± 14.8). LRT is a minimally invasive method that can achieve a synergistic and satisfactory result for patients with mild to moderate facial skin sagging.

Geomembrane Filter Thread Technique’s Potential to Increase Salt Production in Jeneponto Regency

The problem of salt production by Jeneponto Regency is influenced by the traditional way of making salt. The introduction of GFTT (Geomembrane Filter Thread Technique) as a salt-making technology is an effort to increase salt production in the Jeneponto district, both in quality and quantity. This activity was carried out in Biring Parang Jaya Village, Jeneponto Regency. Activities are carried out by applying threaded techniques to salt ponds, making filter devices on salt ponds, and installing geomembranes as salt tablets. Based on the application of technology, the salt produced by GFTT has better quality and quantity than traditional salt. Salt produced by GFTT is classified as high grade with 99.96% NaCl and 0.04% moisture content.

Brow gliding: A new non-surgical concept for almond upturned eyes.

The eyes are one of the most prominent features of the face. To date, a vast majority of procedures have been described for periorbital rejuvenation. Among them, non-surgical threading is an alternative and minimally invasive technique. We developed a new non-surgical threading technique to achieve long-lasting almond-shaped upturned eyes with brow lifting that we call "brow gliding". We developed a new non-surgical threading technique to achieve long-lasting almond-shaped upturned eyes with brow lifting that we call "brow gliding". Here, we present details of our procedure and the clinical experience of our patients who have at least a 6-month follow-up period. We used polydioxanone cog threads in combination with knots to lift the lateral sides of the brows and eyes. By burying these knots in the subcutaneous tissue and extending the threads to the scalp fascia, we were able to spread the load of the threads over multiple stable structures in order to achieve an effective lifting impact. According to the subjective assessment scale, all patients described the improvements as very good or beyond expectations after the procedure. During the follow-up period, 4 of 34 (11.8%) patients stated it was very good and 19 of 34 (55.9%) patients stated that it was still beyond expectations. The Brow Gliding technique is a promising office-based cosmetic procedure for periorbital aesthetics with a prominent outcome and minimally invasive fashion.

Quick and simple dural threading technique for transsphenoidal surgery - dural tenting, haemostasis and skull base reconstruction.

Dural suturing is one of the most robust reconstruction methods in transsphenoidal surgery; however, the technique is considered difficult, primarily due to the restricted range of needle movement. We performed dural threading during transsphenoidal surgery by holding the needle with forceps as a hook and moving the needle in a distal to proximal direction. Our dural suturing technique is simple and quick. It can be used not only for dural closure but also for other procedures, such as controlling haemostasis from the intercavernous sinus and dural tenting.

Ultrasound-guided, minimally invasive looped thread fasciotomy for chronic exertional compartment syndrome of the lower leg: A cadaveric feasibility study

Background– Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) is an exertional pain syndrome that typically affects the lower legs of participants involved in high-intensity running or marching activities. Surgical open fasciotomy is the standard treatment for recalcitrant cases of CECS. Alternative, minimally invasive fasciotomy techniques are emerging which may reduce rates of procedural complications and expedite recovery. The standard fasciotomy procedure for CECS may be improved by looped thread release with additional image guidance. The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate a novel technique of ultrasound-guided, minimally invasive looped thread fasciotomy for release of anterior and lateral compartments of the leg in a cadaveric model. We hypothesized that a fasciotomy of this type would be effective in achieving a target fasciotomy length of 80% of the length of a muscle compartment while avoiding injury to neurovascular structures. Materials and methods– We conducted a controlled laboratory study. Two proceduralists performed anterior and lateral compartment fasciotomies on ten lightly embalmed cadaveric legs. A total of twenty compartment releases were completed, using an ultrasound-guided, percutaneous looped cutting thread technique. The specimens were evaluated for length and completeness of fasciotomy, as well as any inadvertent injury to muscle, tendon, or neurovascular structures. Completeness of fasciotomy was compared between the anterior and lateral compartments. Results– Eighteen of twenty (90%) fasciotomies were continuous. Fasciotomy length was consistently under target (72% complete). Completeness of lateral compartment release was significantly more likely to be under target compared to anterior compartment release (65% vs. 79%, p ​= ​0.014). Sixteen of twenty (80%) fasciotomies incurred no iatrogenic soft tissue injury; no injuries to nerves or vessels were observed. Discussion –Ultrasound-guided, minimally invasive looped thread fasciotomy of the anterior and lateral leg compartments is feasible and can be successfully performed in a cadaveric model with low risk to neurovascular structures. However, further investigation is needed to improve completeness of release prior to recommendation for clinical use.

DESCRIPTION OF CUSTOM THREAD IGM TECHNIQUE WITH USE OF PDO FACIAL SUPPORT THREADS IN THE OROFACIAL HARMONIZATION.

The aim of this article was to describe a thread lifting procedure used for face lifting and skin rejuvenation, developed by the Doctor Molina Dental Institute (IGM, in the Portuguese acronym), termed “IGM custom thread technique” that has shown excellent results in facial tissue repositioning for facial harmonization. In this study, rather than presenting the results, we have described and discussed the proposed custom thread injection technique.

Fixed-Tension sutures for face and neck lifting

Abstract:Surgical facelifts has always been the pinnacle of facial rejuvenation, however in face of an ever growing trend towards less invasive techniques, the ability of plastic surgeons to sell this idea to their customers is ever decreasing. Most of our patients are unwilling and afraid of a long downtime, postoperative scars and possible complications.Thread lifting has been introduced to turn a facelift into a less invasive, scarless, low complications technique. However the absorbable PDO sutures, which are well advertised and widely used by cosmetologists, have failed to gain the acceptance of plastic surgeons based on their lack of durability, lack of true fixation, and the fact that they work on the skin, not the SMAS. Few thread techniques are available that combine the use of permanent threads, stable fixation point, and work on the SMAS layer. However, such techniques require the use of expensive suture materials or specially designed instruments and need special training courses, which limit their use in our society being a very cost sensitive market.In this paper, the author presents his modification of the fixed, permanent suture technique, using only widely available straight needles, and commercially available coated polyester sutures (Ethibond), and was performed in 50 patients over the last two years, with good results and minimal side effects.

Minimally invasive combined technique of thread implantation, including the use of lifting threads from polydioxanone and a copolymer of polylactic acid and polycaprolactone and reinforcing threads from 100% polylactic acid

Modern scientific studies demonstrate a direct relationship between a decrease in the quantitative ratio of type I/III collagen in tissues and the severity of age-related changes, the formation of a deformative type of aging and the early development of ptosis of the lower third of the face able to compensate for the reduced ratio of type I/III collagen. In addition, the specificity of the threads used to perform lifting technologies provides an increase in collagen, predominantly of type III, and a relatively small number of them and only a certain lifting route are used. Currently, the clinical efficacy of 100% polylactic acid threads has been proven, which are able to stimulate the synthesis of type I collagen. Thus, the combination of lifting and reinforcing techniques in one procedure is expedient and relevant.
 In order to achieve aesthetic and lifting results of thread techniques, as well as to increase the intensity of microcirculation, oxygenation and stimulation of collagenogenesis (including type I), we have developed a method of minimally invasive combined technique of thread implantation, including the use of lifting threads made of polydioxanone and polylactic acid copolymer and polycaprolactone and 100% polylactic acid reinforcing threads.
 The minimally invasive technology provides prolongation of the lifting effect; creates the effect of volumization of facial tissues and the supporting dynamic framework in conditions of tissue displacement, and also improves the quality of skin structures by stimulating trophic and oxygenation of tissues, strengthening the collagen framework, increasing the ratio of type I/III collagen, enhancing the production of its own hyaluronic acid and extracellular matrix components.

Abstract 172: Computational analysis of the NEK family of proteins reveals unique structural features and interactions with other cancer-related proteins

Abstract The human Never In Mitosis A-like kinase (NEK) protein family consists of serine/threonine kinases that are implicated in the assembly of the mitotic spindle, regulation of the disjunction of the centrosome, and the functioning of the primary cilium. Protein kinases that regulate the centrosome cycle are often abnormally controlled in tumor cells, as are NEK family members. NEK2 was first identified in pediatric solid tumors and also has elevated expression levels in breast, pancreatic and colorectal cancer. NEK1, NEK3, and NEK5 are highly expressed in thyroid tumors, NEK8 is overexpressed in primary human breast tumors, and NEK11's expression is upregulated in early-stage colorectal cancers. To effectively exploit NEKs as drug targets, it is critical to understand their structure-function relationships to help elucidate their mechanism of action. However, structural information for most NEKs and the range and breadth of their interactions with other proteins are still widely unknown. In this study, we use an integrated computational approach which includes the prediction of the 3D structure using homology modeling, threading, and ab initio techniques, the biophysical/biochemical characterization of the theoretical models, followed by in silico protein-protein predictions and docking analysis to present a comprehensive computational analysis of all eleven NEK proteins. Our results reveal unique structural features in some of NEK family members, such as the armadillo (ARM)-like fold in NEK10 and RCC1 repeats found in NEK8 and NEK9. In addition, we present detailed investigations of four predicted protein-protein interaction scenarios involving NEK1, NEK7, NEK8, and NEK9 using docking analysis. This analysis lends support to new, previously unreported interactions of these NEKs with other cancer-related proteins i.e., TNF alpha with NEK7, GEF2 with NEK9, LRRK2 with NEK1, and ARA9 with NEK8. The details of the residues involved in the interaction interfaces from our proposed interaction scenarios provide valuable data for designing rational experiments to validate these interactions. Overall, this study uncovers novel and intriguing information about the NEK protein family, unique protein-protein interaction predictions, and lays the groundwork for elucidating their molecular mechanism as well as for investigating their potential as therapeutic targets. Citation Format: Andriele Silva, Shaneen Singh. Computational analysis of the NEK family of proteins reveals unique structural features and interactions with other cancer-related proteins [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 172.

Mid‐face reshaping using threads with bidirectional convergent barbs: A retrospective study

BackgroundMinimally invasive procedures, such as thread suspension techniques, are a growing trend for facial rejuvenation. However, not enough data are available on the efficacy, outcomes, and morbidity of suture suspension techniques in mid‐face reshaping.AimsOur goal was to assess treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction following mid‐face reshaping using threads with bidirectional convergent barbs (DefinisseTM free floating threads).Patients/MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of 60 patients who underwent treatment for mid‐face reshaping using DefinisseTM free floating threads. Response to treatment was assessed at 6 months using the mid‐face‐specific Mid‐Face Volume Deficit scale (Allergan®), Global Aesthetic Improvement and FACE‐QTM scales.ResultsSixty patients underwent mid‐face treatment with the suspension thread technique (mean age 51.3, 90% female). No concomitant procedures were done. A reduction by one point or more in the Mid‐Face Volume Deficit Scale (MDFVS) score treatment was seen in all patients after 6 months. Mean overall MFVDS and FACE‐QTM scores were significantly improved. On the GAIS, most patients were rated as improved or better both by the evaluating investigators and during self‐assessment. No major complications were observed, and none of the patients requested the removal of the threads (mean follow‐up 9.8 months, range 6–14 months).ConclusionOur results suggest that mid‐face reshaping with DefinisseTM free floating threads is a safe and reliable procedure characterized by low complication rates and good esthetic results. This minimally invasive procedure is a good alternative for normal or combination skin patients who refuse or want to delay the need for traditional rhytidectomy.

Optimization of PBKDF2 Using HMAC-SHA2 and HMAC-LSH Families in CPU Environment

Password-Based Key Derivation Function 2 (PBKDF2) is widely used cryptographic algorithm in order to generate secure keys to a password in various occasions. For example, it is used for file encryption and implementation of authentication systems, and so on. However, the generated derived key has a lower entropy than a general cryptography key, so its use is limited. To compensate for this the number of iteration counts of PBKDF2 should be increased. As the number of repetitive tasks increases, the entropy of the derived key increases, but it takes more time to generate the derived key. We present various optimization methods of PBKDF2. The main idea of our proposed method is reducing redundant block operations and optimizing the internal process of underlying Pseudo Random Function (PRF). In other words, we integrate several redundant operations and make full use of constant values used in PBKDF2. We use two HMAC algorithms: one using SHA-2 family and one using LSH family as the PRF of PBKDF2 (SHA-2 family is the most widely used hash functions, and LSH family is the latest hash function recently developed in South Korea). With our techniques, our implementations outperform Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA) implementation by 121.26%, 325.91%, and 231.89% for using SHA256, LSH256, and LSH512 respectively; and also outperform <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">OpenSSL</i> implementation by 39.59% using SHA512. In addition, we show that the internal process of PBKDF2 can be computed independently. With our multi thread technique, our PBKDF2 implementations outperform KISA implementation by 2,152.66%, 1,986.85%, and 1,591.36% for using SHA256, LSH256, and LSH512 respectively; and our PBKDF2-HMAC-SHA512 implementation outperforms <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">OpenSSL</i> implementation by 523.57%. With our proposed implementation techniques, higher security can be achieved with more iteration operations. Furthermore, our optimization techniques can be easily expanded to optimize the performance of PBKDF2 on GPGPU and embedded devices.