Neonatal jaundice, characterized by unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, remains one of the most prevalent conditions affecting both term and preterm neonates. Elevated bilirubin levels may progress to acute bilirubin encephalopathy or kernicterus, resulting in irreversible neurological damage and increased mortality. Phototherapy is the standard treatment for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, promoting bilirubin elimination through photoisomerization and photodegradation pathways that generate more water-soluble products, bypassing hepatic metabolism. Over the past decades, significant advances have been made in light-based technologies aimed at improving the efficiency of bilirubin photoconversion. In particular, wavelength optimization, high-intensity light-emitting diodes (LEDs) systems, and emerging photonic and nanomaterial-based approaches have been explored to enhance therapeutic outcomes. In this review, a structured literature search was conducted using the Web of Science database, covering the past 20 years, to analyze recent developments in bilirubin photoisomerization and photodegradation (in vitro and in vivo studies). The results demonstrate that photodegradation efficiency is strongly dependent on wavelength, with optimal performance observed in the blue-green region (490-500 nm), where reduced bilirubin half-life and increased lumirubin formation are reported. Furthermore, high-intensity LED systems generally provide higher irradiance and more favorable degradation kinetics than conventional light sources, although direct comparison among studies remains limited by differences in irradiation geometry, exposure time, bilirubin concentration, and experimental models. Emerging strategies, including optoacoustic monitoring, fluorescence-based theragnostic systems, and nanomaterial-assisted photocatalysis (e.g., ZnO nanoparticles, Au nanocomposites, and functionalized Fe₃O₄ systems), have demonstrated enhanced bilirubin degradation and offer new perspectives for both therapeutic optimization and real-time monitoring. However, most of these approaches remain at the proof-of-concept or preclinical stage, and their clinical translation requires validation of biocompatibility, selectivity, reproducibility, scalability, and neonatal safety. Optical and point-of-care sensing technologies may enable individualized adjustment of phototherapy, but their performance must be validated under clinically relevant conditions and across different gestational ages, skin characteristics, and bilirubin concentrations. Additionally, bilirubin degradation is not solely a detoxification process, as photooxidation products may exhibit biological activity with potential clinical implications. Future studies should therefore focus on optimizing irradiation parameters (wavelength, irradiance, and exposure time), elucidating photochemical pathways, and characterizing degradation products, while correlating these findings with clinical outcomes. Standardized experimental and clinical protocols will also be essential to compare technologies and determine whether improved photochemical performance translates into faster bilirubin reduction, shorter treatment duration, and fewer adverse effects. Such integration may support the development of more efficient, safer, and personalized phototherapy strategies in neonatal care.
Corneal injuries can lead to permanent damage that disrupts the integrity of the cornea and impairs vision. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive therapy that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate biological processes, leading to a range of therapeutic benefits. In this study, the effect of PBM on the alkali burn model was investigated, with a focus on its potential to promote cell proliferation and migration and reduce inflammation using 830 nm of light. A wavelength of 830 nm was used for PBM treatment. After Alkali burn induction, rats were treated with 830 nm light every 12 h and the healing area was observed. Immunofluorescent staining of Ki67 demonstrated the proliferation of corneal epithelial cells. Clinical examination of corneal neovascularization and the opacity was assessed using a slit lamp. Immunohistochemistry was performed to compare the expression of inflammatory cytokines. Western blot analysis revealed a difference in the level of Rho-GTPase between the control and PBM group. PBM treatment promoted wound closure after alkali burn induction. The number of Ki67 positive cells increased in the PBM group than in the control. New blood vessel growth expanded from the limbal to the cornea after a week following the alkali burn in both groups, and no significant difference was observed in neovascularization score. However, corneal opacity was significantly reduced in the PBM group compared with the control group at 1 week (p = 0.029). Furthermore, immunohistochemistry revealed significantly reduced expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the PBM group compared with the alkali burn control at 48 h, and corresponding mRNA expression levels of all three cytokines were also significantly decreased at both 48 h and 1 week. The expression of selected Rho-GTPase proteins (RhoA, RhoC) was increased in whole corneal tissue of the PBM group during the early healing phase. 830-nm PBM accelerated early corneal re-epithelialization by enhancing corneal epithelial cell migration and proliferation in vitro and in vivo. This recovery was accompanied by increased expression of selected Rho-GTPases (RhoA/RhoC), suggesting a potential involvement of cytoskeletal signaling in epithelial repair. Crucially, PBM established a robust anti-inflammatory environment by significantly downregulating key pro-inflammatory cytokines at both the transcriptional and translational levels, which successfully translated into a significant alleviation of subacute corneal opacity. Together, these findings support 830-nm PBM as a highly effective, non-invasive supportive strategy that facilitates therapeutic recovery after chemical corneal injury. Not Applicable.
Local pain following orthodontic tooth movement negatively affects patients' experience and compliance. Pulsed neodymium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser, based on photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), can effectively relieve this pain. This study applied pulsed Nd:YAG laser at different frequencies to orthodontic sites and used digital techniques to evaluate differences in pain relief after tooth movement, aiming to screen the optimal frequency, optimize laser parameters, and provide scientific evidence for the analgesic efficacy of pulsed Nd:YAG laser in orthodontics. 96 patients receiving fixed orthodontic appliances for the first time, who met all inclusion criteria and gave informed consent, were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three pulsed Nd:YAG laser groups-low frequency (10 Hz), medium frequency (15 Hz), or high frequency (20 Hz)-or to a continuous-wave semiconductor laser group (n = 24 each). Each participant further served as his or her own control: within each group, one randomly chosen side received active laser treatment while the contralateral side received sham treatment. A digital pressure algometer was used to measure pressure-pain thresholds (PPT) at the crown and the apex of the target teeth at 0 h, 24 h, 72 h, and 7 days after bracket placement, following intra-oral quantitative sensory testing (QST) protocols. Simultaneously, a visual analogue scale (VAS) and questionnaires were employed to record pain onset, peak pain time, pain disappearance time, and daily pain intensity. All data were analyzed using SPSS 27.0. 1. Intra-oral QST findings: Crown PPT on the treated side in the 10 Hz pulsed Nd:YAG group was significantly higher than that on the treated side in the continuous-wave semiconductor laser group (P < 0.05).In the 15 Hz pulsed Nd:YAG group, both apical and crown PPT values on the treated side were significantly higher than the corresponding values in the semiconductor laser group (P < 0.05). For all three pulsed Nd:YAG frequencies and the continuous-wave laser, PPT values on the treated side were significantly higher than those on the non-treated side (P < 0.05). 2. VAS and questionnaire findings: VAS scores on the treated side of the 10 Hz group were lower than those of the semiconductor laser group on days 2 and 3 (P < 0.05). VAS scores on the treated side of the 15 Hz group remained significantly lower than those of the semiconductor laser group throughout the observation period (days 1-6) (P < 0.05). From day 1 to day 6, VAS scores on the treated side were significantly lower than on the non-treated side in all four groups (P < 0.05). The 15 Hz group also exhibited significantly shorter pain disappearance time and overall pain duration compared with the semiconductor laser group (P < 0.05). 1. Under the PBMT paradigm, both pulsed Nd:YAG and continuous-wave semiconductor lasers effectively alleviate pain and associated symptoms after orthodontic tooth movement. 2. When total energy is kept constant (60 J), 15 Hz pulsed Nd:YAG laser shows promising analgesic effects with better reduction in tooth sensitivity and shorter pain duration than 10-20 Hz. Frequency and analgesia are not linearly correlated. The 15 Hz, 150 µs, 0.5 W setting appears to be a potentially optimal parameter for orthodontic pain relief.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a disabling chronic complication of diabetes mellitus, associated with neuropathic pain, sensory dysfunction, and reduced quality of life. Because pharmacological treatments often provide only partial relief, photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological strategy with metabolic, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory effects. To assess the feasibility of local PBMT, administered alone or combined with intravascular laser irradiation of blood (ILIB), and to explore preliminary short-term changes in neuropathic pain, neuropathic symptoms, and sensory responses in individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This prospective randomized controlled pilot trial included 26 participants allocated to three groups: local PBMT, local PBMT combined with ILIB, and sham control. All randomized participants completed 12 sessions over 23 days. Neuropathic pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, and neuropathic symptoms were evaluated using the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument. Friedman and McNemar tests were used for exploratory within-group and paired analyses, and a linear mixed-effects model evaluated pain trajectory over time. Neuropathic pain intensity decreased across the five assessment points (p < 0.001), with significant intragroup reduction in the local PBMT group (p = 0.007). Improvements were observed in selected symptoms, including numbness, cramps, and dry skin with fissures. The mixed-effects model showed a significant effect of time on pain reduction (beta = -0.78; p = 0.001), although no significant group x time interaction was detected. Local PBMT, administered alone or combined with ILIB, was feasible in this outpatient pilot trial and was followed by preliminary short-term reductions in neuropathic pain and selected neuropathic symptoms. However, no definitive between-group superiority was demonstrated, and the findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the pilot design, small sample size, heterogeneity in baseline pain intensity, potential placebo effects, and short follow-up period.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia that disrupts skin repair through alterations in tissue biochemical composition and structural organization. This study compared Raman spectral profiles of normal and healed skin tissue in non-diabetic (Non-Db) and diabetic (Db) Wistar rats, based on the hypothesis that diabetes alters skin molecular composition during healing. Twelve Wistar rats were divided into Non-Db and Db groups (n = 6 per group). DM was induced by of alloxan monohydrate injection (150 mg/kg). Dorsal skin excision was performed under anesthesia on day 0 (normal tissue) and day 14 (healed tissue), resulting in 24 samples. Raman spectra were acquired (830 nm excitation, 400-1800 cm-1 range, ~ 4 cm-1 resolution, 30 s integration time) in sextuplicate per sample. Data were analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA), followed by ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests. The Raman spectra mainly characterized by features attributed to structural proteins and lipids from epidermal and dermal layers, including collagen, elastin, keratin, and amino acids, fatty acids, ceramides, phospholipids and cholesterol. PCA revealed group-dependent variations in protein- and lipid-associated bands. Increased in protein related features accompanied by a relative reduction in lipids contributions suggested disruption of protein-lipid balance during extracellular matrix remodeling, suggesting molecular alterations in healed skin tissue associated with DM. Raman spectroscopy showed changes in the biomolecular profile of skin healing in diabetic tissue compared with non-diabetic, evidencing a distinct repair pattern marked by modified collagen related features and enhanced membrane lipid signatures in healed diabetic skin.
Hypothyroidism (HypoT) is a systemic hypometabolic disorder characterized by thyroid hormone deficiency and is closely associated with oxidative stress (OS). The hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis plays a key role in regulating thyroid hormone secretion and the Nrf2 signaling pathway in alleviating OS. The aim of this study is to investigate whether 10.6 μm laser moxibustion can affect the activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway by HPT axis, reduce OS and thus alleviate liver damage in HypoT model. The far-infrared wavelength peak of 10.6 μm laser moxibustion is close to the infrared radiation spectrum of traditional moxibustion. It functions similarly to moxibustion without causing pain, infection, or irritating smoke. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into Con group, HypoT group, LM(laser moxibustion) group, and SLM(sham laser moxibustion) group (n = 6). HypoT was induced in 18 rats by intragastric administration of methimazole (10 mg/kg). Rats in the LM group and SLM group were irradiated at Guanyuan (CV4) and Mingmen (GV4) acupoints for 15 min, once every other day for 14 consecutive days, totaling 7 treatments. Rats in the Con group and HypoT group underwent the same handling and fixation procedures without additional intervention. Rectal temperature, body weight, and acupoint temperature were monitored throughout the study. Serum levels of T4, T3, TSH, TRH, cAMP, and cGMP were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). liver tissue microstructure was examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E). The content of adenosine ATP and the activities of CAT, SOD, Na+-K+-ATPase, and GSH-Px in hepatocyte mitochondria were determined by colorimetric method and MDA by ELISA. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression levels of NRF2, HO-1, PGC-1α, and TFAM in liver. These results indicate that 10.6 μm laser moxibustion may regulate the NRF2 signaling axis through the HPT axis, reduce liver OS and improve the related symptoms of HypoT rats.
Photobiomodulation therapy has emerged as an effective non-invasive intervention for preventing and managing chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis, a frequent complication that negatively affects oral health and quality of life in cancer patients. This bibliometric study was guided by PRISMA 2020 principles for study identification and selection. A total of 152 publications indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed between 2016 and 2025 were analyzed using bibliometric indicators, including publication trends, authorship, institutional productivity, country contributions, citation analysis, and keyword evolution. The results demonstrated a substantial increase in scientific production between 2016 and 2025, with Brazil, the United States, and France leading research output. The most productive institutions included Universidade Federal de Goiás, Universidade de São Paulo, and Harvard University, while Supportive Care in Cancer and Lasers in Medical Science were the most influential journals. International collaboration networks showed strong global partnerships, and keyword analysis revealed increasing focus on photobiomodulation therapy, oral mucositis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and prevention. These findings indicate rapid global expansion and increasing scientific and clinical relevance of photobiomodulation therapy research, providing valuable insights into scientific development, key contributors, and emerging research directions that support future advances in evidence-based oral healthcare. However, the bibliometric nature of the study, heterogeneity of the included literature, and the lack of direct assessment of clinical outcomes should be considered as limitations.
To evaluate the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) on primary wound healing and patient-centered outcomes following esthetic clinical crown lengthening with osteotomy over a three-month follow-up period. Twenty-seven systemically healthy patients presenting < 10% bleeding on probing and altered passive eruption were enrolled in a split-mouth, triple-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial. Each patient underwent esthetic crown lengthening surgery in two hemi-arches: a control group (CG), treated with surgery alone, and a test group (TG), treated with surgery followed by PBM (660 nm, 100 mW, 30 J, 5 min, sweeping motion). Laser irradiation was performed immediately after surgery and on postoperative days 4, 7, 11, and 14. Clinical assessments were conducted at baseline and at 4, 7, 11, 14, 45 days, and three months postoperatively. Outcomes included bleeding on probing, probing depth, gingival phenotype, width of keratinized mucosa, wound healing assessed by the modified Landry Healing Index, postoperative pain measured by a numerical visual scale, oral health-related quality of life (OHIP-14), patient satisfaction, and esthetic outcomes assessed by the Pink Esthetic Score. Statistical analyses were performed with a significance level set at p < 0.05. All patients completed the study and remained periodontally healthy throughout the follow-up period. No statistically significant intergroup differences were observed for wound healing, postoperative pain, or professional esthetic outcomes at any evaluation time point (p > 0.05). However, esthetic crown lengthening surgery resulted in significant improvements in patient satisfaction and oral health-related quality of life from baseline to three months of follow-up (p < 0.001). Photobiomodulation did not enhance primary wound healing or reduce postoperative pain following esthetic clinical crown lengthening with osteotomy. Nevertheless, the surgical procedure significantly improved patient satisfaction and quality of life over a three-month follow-up period.
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in reducing pain intensity and improving wound healing quality in women during the immediate postoperative period following cesarean section. This randomized clinical trial included 104 postpartum women recruited between April and October 2024, who were allocated into two groups: a control group (n = 52) and an experimental group (n = 52). The experimental group received infrared LLLT at a dose of 5 J/cm². Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and wound healing was evaluated using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). Two LLLT sessions were performed at 12-24 h and 48 h postpartum. A significant reduction in pain intensity was observed after the second application (mean difference [MD]: -1.4; 95% CI: -2.3 to - 0.5), as well as an improvement in overall wound healing quality (MD: 3.31; 95% CI: 3.19 to 3.43). Domain-specific analysis of the VSS revealed improvements in vascularity (MD: 1.0; 95% CI: 1.00 to 1.03) and scar pliability (MD: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.15). No significant differences were observed in global health perception or in the need for pharmacological analgesia. These findings suggest that LLLT is effective in reducing postoperative pain intensity and improving wound healing quality-particularly in terms of scar vascularity and pliability-in women undergoing cesarean section.Clinical trial registrationThis study was prospectively registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC) under the registration number RBR-4pkhf4b.
Purpose this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the conventional walking bleaching (CWB) method in treating coronal discoloration caused by different photosensitizers used in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). Methods sixty extracted maxillary central incisors were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 15): methylene blue (MB), toluidine blue (TB), curcumin (CUR), and a negative control (NC). In the NC group, neither photosensitizer application nor light activation was performed. Following root canal treatment and aPDT procedures, intracoronal bleaching was performed using the conventional walking bleaching (CWB) technique with 35% hydrogen peroxide. Color measurements were obtained at baseline, one month after aPDT, and on days 4, 8, and 12 of bleaching. Color differences were calculated using the CIEDE2000 (ΔE00) formula. Data were analyzed using Robust Mixed ANOVA with Holm-adjusted multiple comparisons (α = 0.05). Results no significant main effect of photosensitizer type was observed on the overall ΔE00 values (p = 0.097), whereas time had a significant effect on bleaching response (p < 0.001). A significant photosensitizer × time interaction was also identified (p = 0.003). Although no differences were observed among the groups at ΔE002, the TB group exhibited significantly lower ΔE00 values than the MB, CUR, and NC groups during the later evaluation periods (ΔE003 and ΔE004), indicating a reduced bleaching response over time. Conclusion different photosensitizers produced comparable levels of overall bleaching response following aPDT-induced coronal discoloration. However, the temporal bleaching pattern differed among the photosensitizers, with TB-induced discoloration demonstrating a lower bleaching response during the later stages of treatment. These findings suggest that the bleaching behavior of aPDT-related discoloration may vary according to the photosensitizer used.
To investigate the use of YouTube videos as an educational and informational resource regarding the use of red light therapy in eye diseases. On May 1, 2025, a comprehensive search was conducted on the YouTube platform ( https://www.youtube.com ) using the keywords "Red light therapy in eye disease" and "Use of red light therapy in eye diseases for patient information". Videos under 60 s in duration, those lacking audio, duplicate entries, irrelevant content, and videos with disabled comment sections were excluded from the analysis. These exclusion criteria were predefined prior to data collection. Following video selection (E.Ç., M.T.), all videos were independently evaluated by two ophthalmologists, and statistical analyses were performed using the finalized dataset. Parameters assessed included total views, number of comments, likes, time elapsed since upload, video duration, view rate, interaction index, video source, and content characteristics. In addition, videos were categorized according to quality level based on Global Quality Score (GQS) scores as low-to-moderate quality (GQS < 4) and high quality (GQS ≥ 4). Comparisons were then performed according to quality category with respect to uploader source, video purpose, and engagement-related parameters. Out of 110 YouTube videos reviewed, 53 were excluded based on predefined criteria. The remaining 57 videos covered myopia (22.8%), dry eye (33.3%), diabetic retinopathy (12.3%), and age-related macular degeneration (31.6%). Inter-rater agreement was high (mDISCERN ICC: 0.952; JAMA ICC: 0.923; GQS ICC: 0.890). Videos uploaded by physicians had significantly higher mDISCERN, JAMA, and GQS scores. Educational videos had higher mDISCERN and JAMA scores than patient-information videos. A moderate positive correlation was found between the number of likes and the interaction index (r = 0.458, p < 0.01). The interaction index was not significantly associated with mDISCERN, JAMA, or GQS scores, indicating that engagement metrics were not reliable indicators of informational quality. Among disease categories, age-related macular degeneration videos had the highest mean quality scores, although the differences were not statistically significant. Most videos were classified as low-to-moderate quality (82.5%), while 17.5% were classified as high quality. High-quality videos had significantly higher view counts and like counts than low-to-moderate quality videos. The overall quality and formal reliability of YouTube videos on red light therapy in ophthalmology were low to moderate. Physician-uploaded and educational videos provided higher-quality information. Although high-quality videos showed greater engagement, popularity metrics were not reliable indicators of informational quality. More evidence-based and accessible video content is needed to support patient education.
The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of diode laser and combined treatment protocols, applied in addition to mechanical debridement, in the treatment of peri-implantitis on clinical periodontal parameters and S100A8 levels in peri-implant sulcus fluid (PISF). A total of 39 patients diagnosed with peri-implantitis were divided into three groups based on the treatment protocols used: Mechanical Debridement, Diode Laser, and Combined Treatment. Probing depth, clinical attachment level, modified plaque index, gingival index, and PISF volume measurements were recorded at baseline and at weeks 4 and 12. S100A8 levels in PISF samples were measured by ELISA. During the 12-week follow-up period, statistically significant improvements in clinical parameters were observed in all groups compared with baseline (p < 0.05). In the intergroup comparison, the most significant decrease and statistical superiority in mPI and GI values were observed in the combined treatment group (p < 0.001). Although there was no statistically significant difference among the groups in probing depth and clinical attachment gain, the greatest numerical improvement was observed in the combined group. Despite clinical improvement, no significant change in total S100A8 levels was detected between groups or over time (p > 0.05). The combined use of mechanical debridement and a diode laser in the treatment of peri-implantitis is more effective at reducing clinical signs of inflammation than either method used alone. However, the lack of correlation between S100A8 levels and clinical improvement suggests that this biomarker may not be sensitive in short-term follow-up of treatment.
The use of lasers and light devices in dermatology has significantly increased in recent years due to their ease of treatment, predictable clinical efficacy, and minimal side effects. Numerous studies have explored the use of lasers in acne treatment, including Q-Switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser, pulsed dye laser (PDL), intense pulsed light (IPL), diode lasers, and laser-based photodynamic therapy. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and side effects of Q-Switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser, PDL, and IPL in the treatment of acne. This pilot study was a three-arm randomized controlled trial involving 36 patients with moderate to severe inflammatory acne. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups. Group 1 received three PDL laser treatments at two-week intervals, Group 2 received three IPL treatments at two-week intervals, and Group 3 received three sessions of Q-Switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser treatments at two-week intervals. A total of 36 patients were randomly assigned to three groups (PDL, IPL, and Q-Switched Nd: YAG 1064 nm laser) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of each treatment for inflammatory acne. No significant differences were observed in acne lesion counts or severity scores between the groups at any treatment session (P-values ranging from 0.06 to 0.92). Lesion counts and severity decreased significantly within each group over the course of the study. Acne-related disability, measured using the Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI), decreased significantly from baseline to two weeks after the third treatment session in all groups, indicating improved quality of life. No statistically significant difference was observed between the groups (P = 0.45). Adverse effects were minimal, with mild erythema reported by one participant in the PDL group, and the Nd: YAG group reported less pain during treatment compared to the others. All three treatment modalities were associated with improvements in acne lesion count, lesion severity, and CADI scores. The reduction in CADI scores indicated reduced acne-related disability and improved quality of life. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the groups. Therefore, PDL, IPL, and Nd: YAG may be considered promising short-term treatment options for inflammatory acne.
To evaluate efficacy and safety of dual-depth 25-pin insulated microneedle radiofrequency (RF) treatment for periorbital wrinkles and skin elasticity. This observational study included 32 adults aged 30-60 years with baseline Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Assessment Scale (FWAS) scores of 4 or higher. Patients underwent three microneedle RF treatment sessions at 4-week intervals. The protocol employed a duty-controlled, dual-shot mechanism to sequentially deliver thermal energy to 1.5 mm and 1.0 mm depths within a single needle insertion. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and weeks 16 and 24 using blinded FWAS grading, Antera 3D imaging, Cutometer R2/R5/R7, patient satisfaction, and safety monitoring. The mean FWAS score decreased from 5.44 ± 0.80 at baseline to 3.38 ± 0.61 at week 24 (p < 0.001). Quantitative imaging revealed relevant reductions in average wrinkle depth, maximum wrinkle depth, and the indentation index, while R2, R5, and R7 increased throughout follow-up (all p < 0.001). At week 24, 90.63% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied. The mean procedure time was 7.2 ± 1.4 min, and the mean pain score was 3.3 ± 0.9. Adverse events were limited to transient mild erythema and edema, resulting in an average downtime of 1.5 ± 0.5 days. The dual-depth, 25-pin insulated microneedle RF protocol demonstrated clinical utility and a favorable safety profile as a minimally invasive option for periorbital rejuvenation. By delivering targeted dermal thermal stimulation without repeated mechanical passes, the procedure improved wrinkle severity and skin elasticity with short treatment time and limited recovery burden.
This study aimed to systematically study the characterize of retinal damage induced by 525 nm laser irradiation at different power densities through multimodal assessment methods, including structural, functional and cytokine analyses. A total of 24 rabbits were exposed to laser irradiation at 0.5, 200, 500, and 1000 mW/cm2 with a single-eye exposure duration of 0.25 s. Multimodal evaluations including ERG, OCT/OCTA, histopathology and aqueous humor cytokine microarray analysis were used to evaluate the characteristics of laser-induced injury in rabbit eyes. No visible functional or pathological damage was observed after low-power laser radiation (0.5 mW/cm2). Laser irradiation exceeding 200 mW/cm2 induced transient electroretinographic suppression and persistent laser spots in the fundus. Laser-induced retinal edema and hemorrhage were naturally absorbed within 7 days after injury, and cellular damage and structural changes persisted in the form of old plaques (14d). Notably, 1000 mW/cm2 laser exposure caused severe retinal detachment (1d), ultimately leading to a retinal hole (14d). There was no significant difference in the inflammatory array clustering analysis of anterior aqueous humor, but several individual cytokines showed statistically significant differences: ANG-1 was upregulated (500 and 1000 mW/cm2, p < 0.01) while VEGF-A was downregulated (500 mW/cm2, p < 0.05); MIP-1β was significantly increased (200 mW/cm2, p < 0.05), whereas IL-1RA was decreased (500 mW/cm2, p < 0.05). The 525 nm laser induced dose-dependent retinal injury, ranging from reversible functional inhibition to irreversible structural damage, and triggered the expression of cytokines related to vascular stability and inflammation regulation.
To evaluate changes in facial contour and skin elasticity following full-face treatment with 40.68-MHz unipolar radiofrequency (RF), and to assess its safety and tolerability in adults with mild-to-moderate facial laxity. This prospective single-arm interventional clinical study evaluated adults with mild-to-moderate facial laxity who underwent three full-face 40.68-MHz unipolar RF treatment sessions at 4-week intervals. The primary endpoint was the change in VECTRA-derived three-dimensional facial volumetric parameters from baseline to Week 20. Secondary outcomes included Cutometer-derived skin elasticity parameters (R2 and R5), Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), FACE-Q satisfaction scores, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, and adverse event monitoring. Of the 30 enrolled participants, 26 completed follow-up and were included in the final analysis. By Week 20, VECTRA 3D analysis demonstrated modest volume reductions in the cheek (- 2.2 mL), jowl (- 1.7 mL), and submental region (- 2.9 mL). Skin elasticity parameters increased over time, with R2 increasing from 0.62 to 0.69 and R5 from 0.53 to 0.59. GAIS improvement was observed in 88.5% of participants, and the mean FACE-Q score increased to 72.4 ± 10.1. Treatment was well tolerated, with low mean pain scores (VAS 1.2 ± 0.9). Only transient erythema and mild edema were reported, with no serious adverse events observed. Three sessions of 40.68-MHz unipolar RF were associated with modest measurable improvements in facial contour and skin elasticity that were maintained during the 20-week observation period, with good tolerability and no serious adverse events. Because this was an uncontrolled single-arm study, these findings should be interpreted as preliminary and require confirmation in controlled studies with longer follow-up.
This study aimed to systematically evaluate the antibiofilm efficacy of curcumin-mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) activated by 450 nm LED light against biofilm formation and mature biofilms of clinically relevant Candida species, with particular emphasis on preventive potential and species-dependent susceptibility; Biofilm formation and maturation were investigated in five standard Candida strains. Biofilm formation (preventive approach) and established biofilms were treated with curcumin followed by irradiation with 450 nm LED light. Biofilm biomass was quantitatively assessed using the crystal violet assay. Comparative analyses were performed to determine species-dependent responses to aPDT. Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and intergroup comparisons were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn's post hoc test when appropriate. All Candida strains demonstrated a pronounced ability to form biofilms, being classified as strong biofilm producers, except Candida dubliniensis, which exhibited moderate biofilm formation. Curcumin-mediated aPDT significantly inhibited biofilm development across all tested species (p < 0.05), achieving reductions of 86.82% for C. metapsilosis, 85.05% for C. orthopsilosis, 83.33% for C. parapsilosis, 75.34% for C. dubliniensis, and 68.19% for C. albicans. This preventive antibiofilm effect is likely associated with reactive oxygen species generation, resulting in oxidative damage to essential cellular structures and impairment of early extracellular matrix establishment. In contrast, aPDT activity against mature biofilms was significantly attenuated and highly species-dependent, with reductions ranging from 49.63% (C. parapsilosis) to 0.64% (C. dubliniensis); however, these reductions were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Curcumin-mediated aPDT exerted a significant preventive antibiofilm effect against Candida biofilm formation but showed limited and non-significant activity against mature biofilms. These findings position curcumin-mediated aPDT as a promising strategy for preventing Candida biofilm establishment, while indicating that improved photosensitizer delivery and optimized irradiation protocols are required to enhance activity against established biofilms.
To investigate whether pre-exercise photobiomodulation (PBM) attenuates fatigue-induced decline in ankle joint position reproduction (JPR) and determine whether perceived ankle instability modifies this response. In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial with participant blinding and blinded outcome assessment, 30 healthy young adults (age: 24.3 ± 3.7 years; 15 male, 15 female) received either PBM or placebo treatment applied to the lower-leg musculature before a fatiguing protocol. PBM parameters included a wavelength of 830 nm, average power of 1 W, and total energy of 300 J per limb. Ankle JPR was assessed before and after fatigue. Participants were stratified by Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) scores. All physical assessments were performed by independent outcome assessors blinded to group allocation, with each participant evaluated by the same designated assessor throughout the study. The primary analysis revealed no overall between-group difference in fatigue-related changes in ankle JPR. A secondary exploratory group × CAIT interaction was observed, suggesting potential effect modification by perceived ankle instability. In the higher perceived instability subgroup, the estimated between-group difference was consistent with less post-fatigue worsening of JPR error following PBM; however, this estimate was based on small subgroup sizes and was not adjusted for multiple comparisons. The primary hypothesis was not supported; pre-exercise PBM showed no overall effect on fatigue-induced changes in ankle JPR. The exploratory group × CAIT interaction suggests that perceived ankle instability may be an effect modifier the response to PBM. However, this hypothesis requires confirmation in a larger, preregistered trial prospectively powered for interaction testing and incorporating functional outcomes in populations with clinically diagnosed chronic ankle instability.
Dermatophytosis, a contagious fungal infection affecting the skin and nails, is increasingly associated with resistance to oral antifungal medications. Laser-assisted drug delivery is a modern therapeutic approach that has shown promising results in various dermatologic conditions, including onychomycosis. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of laser-assisted drug delivery in treating refractory cutaneous dermatophyte infections. This case series included five patients with confirmed refractory cutaneous dermatophytosis, unresponsive to oral antifungal treatment for at least six months. Patients were treated at the dermatology clinic of a medical center hospital between June 2024 and March 2025 with three monthly sessions of ablative fractional laser therapy combined with topical application of clotrimazole and terbinafine creams. Clinical outcomes were assessed using a dermatologist-evaluated improvement score based on standardized photographs: worsened (-1), no change (0), slight improvement (1), moderate improvement (2), and significant improvement (3). Patient satisfaction with the treatment was recorded, along with treatment tolerability and any adverse effects. A total of five patients (mean age [range], 46.2 [39-57] years; male-to-female ratio, 2:3) were enrolled. All patients had previously been treated with various oral antifungal therapies, including fluconazole, terbinafine, itraconazole, and voriconazole, without achieving a clinical response after at least six months of treatment. LADD sessions ranged from 1 to 3, and the follow-up period was 1 to 6 months. The highest clinical response (3) was observed in all five patients, with dramatic improvement in pruritus and high patient satisfaction. The evaluation score was 3 in all patients, indicating significant improvement. The procedure was well tolerated, and no serious side effects were reported. The findings of this case series suggest that laser-assisted drug delivery may be a suitable and effective treatment option for dermatophyte infections that are resistant to oral antifungal therapy.
Compound betamethasone combined with 595 nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) is widely used in the clinical management of hypertrophic scars. However, the mechanisms underlying this enhanced effect remain poorly understood. This study evaluated its therapeutic efficacy and investigated whether induction of autophagy in myofibroblasts is associated with scar improvement. A rabbit ear hypertrophic scar model was established and divided into control, compound betamethasone injection (BI), PDL, and combined (BI + PDL) groups. Scar morphology and histological changes were assessed. Autophagy was evaluated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and immunohistochemical detection of LC3B and p62. In vitro, hypertrophic scar-derived myofibroblasts were treated with betamethasone dipropionate (BD), PDL, or their combination (BD + PDL). Cell viability, collagen expression, and autophagic activity were analyzed using CCK-8 assays, Western blotting, MDC staining, immunofluorescence, and TEM. Chloroquine was used to assess autophagic flux. The combined BI + PDL treatment produced the most pronounced improvement in scar architecture, with reduced collagen deposition, decreased microvessel density, and increased number of apoptotic cells. Autophagy levels were significantly elevated in the combination group both in vivo and in vitro. In cultured myofibroblasts, BD + PDL markedly inhibited cell viability and reduced type I and type III collagen expression. This effect was accompanied by increased autophagosome formation, an elevated LC3II/LC3I ratio, and decreased p62 expression. Importantly, inhibition of autophagic flux with chloroquine attenuated the collagen-suppressive effect of the combined treatment. Compound betamethasone combined with 595 nm PDL significantly improves hypertrophic scars, an effect associated with enhanced autophagic activity in myofibroblasts which may partly mediate collagen degradation.