Photobiomodulation Photomedicine and Laser Surgery

The Effect of Photobiomodulation on Periodontal Clinical Status of Patients with Cancer During Chemotherapy: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Firoozi P, Ghaznavi D and Fekrazad R
This interventional prospective double-blind randomized study investigated the adjunctive inflammation-modulatory effects of photobiomodulation therapy on the periodontal clinical parameters of patients undergoing chemotherapy. Twenty diagnosed patients with cancer were enrolled in this split-mouth trial. Patients were randomized to implantation with either SRP alone in one quadrant or with five sessions of adjunctive photobiomodulation using a diode laser (density of energy = 2 J/cm | wavelength = 635 nm | power = 50 mW | spot diameter = 4 mm | exposure time = 5 s | continuous mode) on the other quadrant. The gingiva was radiated buccally and lingually. The laser beam was positioned 3 mm vertically away from the gingival surface and at a right angle to it. Before chemotherapy, all participants were given oral hygiene training and received SRP. In the same session, the patient's baseline clinical measures were taken immediately after the beginning of one chemotherapy session, interventions for each side were started and clinical parameters including gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), clinical attachment level (CAL), and pain/burning sensation after one chemotherapy session were obtained. Regarding GI and PI, both control and test groups showed favorable results compared with baseline. However, the adjunctive photobiomodulation group outperformed the control group in one chemotherapy session regarding both abovementioned indices ( < 0.05). The photobiomodulation+scaling and root planing (SRP) group showed promising results in terms of gingival discomfort reduction and SRP alone was not effective. No significant effect was observed regarding CAL in both groups ( > 0.05). Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that photobiomodulation promotes gingival health and reduces PI and GI indices. Photobiomodulation also alleviates pain or burning in the gingiva. Accordingly, adjunctive photobiomodulation therapy may be suggested as a supplementary treatment in patients with cancer.
Shedding Light on the Therapeutic Efficiency of Oxygen-Releasing Gel and Photodynamic Therapy as Adjuvants in the Treatment of Experimental Periodontitis
Garcia VG, Miessi DMJ, da Rocha TE, Gomes NA, Rodrigues JVS, Ervolino E, de Freitas RM, Wainwright M, de Molon RS and Theodoro LH
We aimed to compare the effectiveness of oxygen-releasing gel (Blue®M [BM]) alone or associated with photodynamic therapy (PDT), after scaling and root planing (SRP), as adjuvants during the treatment of ligature-induced experimental periodontitis (EP). For this aim, Wistar rats underwent EP by placing a cotton ligature around the lower first molar. Ligatures were maintained for 7 days and were subsequently removed. Then, rats were arbitrarily allocated into five groups: EP group-untreated animals; SRP group-SRP followed by the application of saline; BM group-SRP followed by the application of BM gel (0.4 mL); PDT group-SRP followed by photosensitizer and low power laser irradiation (660 nm, 40mW, 60 s); and BM+PDT-SRP followed by BM and later PDT. Treatment with BM, PDT, and BM+PDT groups at both 7 and 30 days resulted in decreased alveolar bone destruction compared with the EP and SRP groups. At 30 days, the PDT and BM+PDT groups enhanced the resolution of inflammation by decreasing the inflammatory infiltrate and increasing alveolar bone neoformation, as evidenced by increased immunostaining of osteocalcin, transforming growth factor beta 1, bone morphogenetic protein-2, and -4. The BM group showed positive effects regarding the inhibition of bone resorption and inflammation but was less effective when compared with the PDT group. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that PDT significantly reduces alveolar bone loss and enhances connective tissue repair. Treatment with BM gel alone also decreases bone loss and ameliorates the repair of periodontal tissues. However, combining BM with PDT appears to diminish the effects of PDT.
Efficacy and Safety of TANIT Platform Combining Dampened Bioactive Current and Functional Dermal Stimulation for the Treatment of Adipose Tissue in Patients with Stage I or II Lipedema
Casart Quintero YC, Pérez Bruzón JD, Fernández Peñuela RJ and Sánchez Hidalgo A
The study's main objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of TANIT, a platform combining functional dermal stimulation with damped bioactive current and mechanical stimulation to reduce adipose tissue (AT) in patients with stage I (SI) or II (SII) lipedema. A single-center, before-after clinical trial without a control group was conducted on adult women diagnosed with SI or SII lipedema. Patients underwent a treatment protocol for 5 weeks, with weekly sessions. Blood tests, AT thickness, pain threshold, and anthropometric measurements were assessed at baseline and the end of the study, and a satisfaction survey was conducted after treatment. Twenty-three women were enrolled with a mean age of 44.91 (standard deviation 11.58) and a median of 46.00 (Q25 = 36.50, Q75 = 51.50). Seven (30.4%) patients had SI lipedema and 16 (69.6%) had SII. The pain threshold increased in 78.3% of patients at the knee level and 80.0% at the ankle level. Lower limb volume decreased in 78.3% of patients. AT thickness decreased in all treated areas, with a mean decrease of 26.1% at the ankles, 14.5% at the knees, and 17.4% at the trochanter level. Patients reported high satisfaction with the results obtained after the treatment sessions, and no unexpected adverse effects were found. The TANIT platform provided an effective and safe conservative treatment option for patients with S and SII lipedema, reducing leg volume, AT thickness, and pain. However, additional randomized clinical trials and standardized assessment tools would be necessary.
Potentiated Effects of Photobiomodulation and Celecoxib on the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Signaling of , , in Breast Cancer Cells, MCF7, and MDA-MB-231
Ashrafi P, Sari S, Javani Jouni F, Zafari J and Asgari F
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers among women, with a high potential for metastasis. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial in the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells. This research was designed to examine the efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy in combination with celecoxib in inhibiting the EMT process. We also analyzed the changes in the expression of , , and genes in BC cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. In this study, the IC of celecoxib was first determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay for both cell lines. The cells were then treated with celecoxib, laser irradiation, and their combination. A migration assay was performed to evaluate the cell migration. Real-time polymerase chain reaction also assessed the changes in the expression of the abovementioned genes. A combination of celecoxib and laser therapy significantly reduced the migration of cancer cells. Additionally, the potentiated effect of the combined therapy altered the expression levels of the aforementioned genes, indicating the potential role of the combination treatment in regulating EMT. Our research discloses that combining laser therapy with celecoxib could serve as an effective therapeutic approach to inhibit BC invasion and metastasis by targeting the EMT process and decelerating disease progression. Further investigations are essential to validate these results in clinical environments.
Effects of Er,Cr:YSGG Laser Disinfection on the Bond Strength of Bioactive-Restorative Materials to Caries-Affected Dentin
Uslu Tekce A, Arnabat-Dominguez J and Gurgan S
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different Er,Cr:YSGG laser disinfection protocols on the bonding performance of bioactive restorative materials to caries-affected dentin (CAD). With the adoption of minimally invasive caries removal techniques, bonding to CAD has become increasingly important. Adhesion challenges caused by CAD can be overcome through the application of effective disinfection methods and the selection of compatible bioactive restorative materials. A total of 120 human third molars (240 specimens) were prepared, with dentin surfaces exposed under water cooling. After pH-cycling to simulate CAD, specimens were assigned to four disinfection groups: no disinfection (C), 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), Er,Cr:YSGG laser at 0.5 W (L1), and 1 W (L2). Four restorative materials ( = 12 per group)-G-ænial Achord (a resin composite used as the control group), Equia Forte HT, Beautifil-II Restorative, and Cention Forte-were applied according to manufacturers' instructions. Shear bond strength (SBS) testing was conducted on 192 specimens, while energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analyzed F, P, and Ca on 48 specimens, and scanning electron microscopy images were obtained from representative specimens. CHX disinfection significantly improved SBS compared to the control group. Among restorative materials, G-ænial Achord showed the highest SBS, while Equia Forte HT demonstrated the lowest ( < 0.05). L1 disinfection combined with G-ænial Achord achieved the highest bond strength, whereas its combination with Equia Forte HT resulted in the lowest ( < 0.05). EDS revealed increased fluoride content on CAD surfaces treated with CHX. Er,Cr:YSGG laser disinfection at 0.5W improved bonding performance for resin composites. Selecting a disinfection protocol based on the restorative material is crucial for optimizing adhesion to CAD.
Primary Dentin Conditioning with Methylene Blue Activated Photodynamic Therapy, Phytic Acid, and Er,Cr:YSGG to Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Cement in Comparison to Conventional Polyacrylic Acid
Bin Abbooud AlQhtani FA, Niazi FH, Syed S, Sainudeen S, Abdullah Kamran M, Alzuman LS, Saidan AMB and Abushama AA
Impact of surface conditioner phytic acid (IP6) Er,Cr:YSGG laser (ECYL) methylene blue photodynamic therapy (MB-PDT) on the microleakage and shear bond strength (SBS) of resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) to primary sound dentin. Overall, 80 extracted sound primary molars were collected followed by their submergence in self-cure acrylic resin. The dentin surface was exposed and made flat and was assigned into four groups based on the surface conditioning. Group 1: polyacrylic acid (PAA), Group 2: 1% IP6, Group 3: ECYL, and Group 4: MB-PDT. RMGIC restorative material was bonded to primary dentin. Marginal leakage assessment was performed using silver nitrate. SBS and failure mode assessment were performed using a universal testing machine and stereomicroscope. Mean and standard deviations of SBS and marginal leakage were compared using analysis of variance and multiple comparisons of Tukey's post-hoc test < 0.05). MB-PDT treated specimens displayed the highest values of marginal leakage (37.56 ± 1.25 nm) and lowest SBS (7.93 ± 1.03 MPa). However, samples in Group 2 conditioned with IP6 presented the lowest dye penetration score (11.23 ± 1.22 nm) and highest bond strength scores (11.12 ± 0.82 MPa). IP6 and ECYL have proved to be better alternatives in terms of low microleakage and improved SBS scores to PAA as a primary dentin surface conditioner for bonding RMGIC restoration. Conversely, MB-PDT, when employed as a dentin surface conditioner for RMGIC restorations, exhibited suboptimal results, characterized by elevated microleakage and compromised bond strength.
Optimal Timing of Photobiomodulation Therapy for Retinal Diseases: Leveraging Circadian Mitochondrial Rhythms
Siqueira RC
Age-related retinal degeneration is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests that photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) using near-infrared light may improve mitochondrial function and visual performance, but its efficacy is critically time-dependent. This article explores how daily biological rhythms and mitochondrial function interact, focusing on the potential of timed PMBT for age-related eye diseases. Further research is needed to determine optimal treatment times and individual responses to maximize this therapy's benefits.
Influence of Photobiomodulation Therapy Combined with Pelvic Floor Exercises on Postpartum Coccydynia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Abdoelmagd SR, Kadry AM, Ragab WM, Alhamaky DMA, Lasheen YR, Alwhaibi RM, Zakaria HM and Botla AM
This study was conducted to investigate whether the addition of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) to pelvic floor exercises (PFEs) is more effective in treating postpartum coccydynia compared with either modality alone. Postpartum coccydynia is a widespread condition that significantly affects the quality of life. Inflammation as a response to childbirth trauma and weakening of the muscles and ligaments attached to the coccyx are presumed causes of postpartum coccydynia. Finding effective modalities to manage this condition will help the quality of life for most women. Sixty women aged 25-35 years with postpartum coccydynia ≥6 weeks were randomly allocated to Group A (PBMT + hot pack + PFEs), Group B (PBMT + hot pack), and Group C (placebo PBMT + hot pack + PFEs). All groups received 12 sessions over 4 weeks of hot packs plus their allocated active treatment (PBMT and/or PFEs). Outcomes were pain intensity (visual analog scale), lumbar flexion range of motion (ROM) (modified Schober test), and self-reported disability (Oswestry Disability Index). The assessors were blinded to group allocation. All the measured outcomes showed significant differences ( < 0.001), with the superiority of Group A over the other groups ( < 0.001). Within groups, all groups showed statistically significant improvement from baseline across outcomes ( < 0.05). Adding PBMT to PFEs is recommended in the management of postpartum coccydynia as this combination resulted in greater reductions in pain and disability, along with improved lumbar flexion ROM.
A 675 nm Laser in the Treatment of Facial Melasma in Dark Skin Types
Ibrahim SMA, Elsaie ML, Fusco I, Zingoni T and Rageh MA
Melasma therapy can be difficult and requires employing different treatment approaches. Laser therapy is a good alternative for treating melasma, especially for patients with refractory cases. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of newcomer wavelength 675 nm diode laser in treating melasma in darker skin types. Nineteen female patients with facial melasma were recruited. They received four sessions of 675 nm laser at one-month intervals using the following parameters: power 5-6 W, pulse duration 100-150 ms, spacing 2000 mm, and stack one up to 4 passes. One month after the last treatment session, the evaluation was done subjectively through the modified melasma area and severity index (mMASI) score and objectively using the Antera 3D camera. After treatment, there was a highly statistically significant reduction in mMASI scores. In addition, the scores on the Antera camera recorded highly statistically significant differences in the treated areas' melanin and hemoglobin average levels. The novel 675 nm laser represents a safe and efficient approach in treating melasma in darker phototype patients.
Clinical and Microbiological Effectiveness of Diode Laser for Treating Patients with Stage II Grade A Periodontitis Patients: Split-Mouth Study
Abd El Mageed MH, Yousief SA, Alanazi S, Edrees MF, Abushama AA, Mwafey IM, Mekkey MAM, Barakat A, Abdelglel AMS and ElHaddad SA
This split-mouth randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of diode laser therapy as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) in the management of patients with stage II grade A periodontitis. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to receive either SRP alone (control group) or SRP and diode laser application (study group) on the contralateral side. Clinical parameters (plaque index, gingival index, probing depth, and clinical attachment level) and microbiological markers; , , and were evaluated at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-treatment. Both groups reported significant improvements in all clinical parameters over the follow-up period. The study group reported a significantly higher reduction in probing depth at 12 weeks than the SRP-alone group. Microbiological evaluation revealed significantly greater reductions in levels in the study group at later time points, whereas no significant alterations were observed for . Our results suggest that the adjunctive use of diode laser therapy may improve the clinical and microbiological findings of nonsurgical periodontal management in patients with stage II grade A periodontitis.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Photomedicine
Fekrazad S, Hamblin M and Fekrazad R
Evaluation of Effect of Laser in Root Canal Disinfection in Pulp Regenerative Therapy: A Systematic Review
Kumar N K, M A, B Naik S, Brigit B, V SG and Manimozhi M
The evaluation of the effect of laser in disinfection of root canal in pulp regenerative therapy, if found effective laser can be used for root canal disinfection in cases of regenerative endodontic therapy. This study includes a systematic review addressing the question of whether laser is effective in root canal treatment in regenerative endodontic therapy. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), case series, and animal studies evaluating the effect of laser-assisted endodontic irrigation in pulp regenerative therapy were included. Review articles, case reports, and in vitro studies were excluded. The data search covers all publications without limitation by year. The last search was conducted on December 31, 2023. An electronic search was performed using the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The result of this review was in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Assessment of risk of bias was done using the modified Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. The initial search resulted in 749 articles. Eleven duplicate articles were removed. Following the titles and abstracts screening, 11 articles were identified to form the basis of this systematic review. Three articles were excluded as full text was unavailable. Overall, eight studies evaluated the laser effect in root canal disinfection in pulp regenerative therapy, which were included in this systematic review. Of the included studies, a low risk of bias was shown by 7/8 studies, and a moderate risk of bias was shown by 1/8 studies. Laser can be used for root canal disinfection in cases of regenerative endodontic therapy. There is a need for further RCTs about individual laser groups and their disinfection effect on regenerative endodontic therapy for obtaining a higher level of evidence.
Photobiomodulation Treatment for Second-Degree Burn Treatment-A Double-Blinded Controlled Pilot Trial
Adler N, Liram N and Davidov B
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a technology that has gained much attention in recent years regarding its potential application for stimulating wound healing, alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and aiding in the restoration of function. Due to a scarcity of evidence in the literature regarding PBM for the treatment of burns, our objective of this study was to test whether treatment with PBM in hospitalized patients with second-degree burns accelerated recovery. A double-blind controlled study was conducted on nine patients with up to 15% second-degree burns who were hospitalized at Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem Campus, Jerusalem Israel, between July 2022 and November 2022. Each patient recruited for the study received PBM treatment on part of the burn area (approximately 10%-20% of the burn area), while the control group was the burn area of the same patient treated only with the usual non-PBM. Treatment parameters were light emitting diode surface including continuous and/or pulsed red (660 nm) and near-infrared (840 nm), 5-16 mW/cm, 2.4-7.7 J/cm per treatment session. Patients received three to five treatments with a mean epithelization time of 16 days (±2.89 standard deviation [SD]) in the control area, while only 7.56 (±2.29 SD) in the treatment area. The mean percent reduction in healing time was 46.22% (±4.24 SD), which was found to be statistically significant ( = 0.004). Our study demonstrated a statistically significant acceleration of healing in second-degree burns following treatment with PBM for the treatment of burns in patients. However, further studies are needed to determine if these results translate to a reduction in hospitalization time and medical care costs.
The Impact of Photobiomodulation Therapy on Swelling Reduction and Recovery Enhancement in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Chia WT, Wong TH, Jaw FS and Hsieh HC
Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is commonly performed for severe osteoarthritis but often results in significant postoperative swelling and discomfort, impacting early rehabilitation. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), utilizing low-level laser therapy (LLLT), has emerged as a potential adjunctive treatment to alleviate these symptoms. In this single-center, nonblinded prospective randomized clinical trial, conducted from May to July 2024, 30 patients undergoing primary TKA were enrolled and divided into two groups. Fifteen patients formed the control group receiving standard postoperative care, while the intervention group consisted of another 15 patients who received additional PBMT from the first to the fifth postoperative day (POD). The swelling was assessed using bioimpedance analysis, which offers a noninvasive, safe, and efficient method for assessing postoperative swelling by measuring tissue impedance, and functional outcomes were measured using the 2-min walk test (2MWT) and active range of motion (aROM). The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06426251). The PBMT group demonstrated significantly lower impedance, reactance, and phase angle ratios by POD6, suggesting reduced swelling compared to the control group. In the 2MWT, the PBMT group achieved a longer walking distance of 27 m, compared to 16 m in the control group. However, there were no significant differences in aROM or Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores between the groups. The findings indicate that PBMT effectively reduces postoperative swelling and enhances early mobility post-TKA. These benefits suggest that PBMT can be a valuable addition to conventional postoperative care, potentially accelerating functional recovery, and reducing rehabilitation time.
Efficacy and Safety of UVA1 Phototherapy Adjunct Treatment for Acute Cutaneous Inflammations and Neuralgia of Herpes Zoster: A Prospective, Randomized, Open-Label, Blinded End-Point Study
Li L, Kong M, Chen S, Li J, Wang H, Deng S, Zhang M, Yang X, Song Z and Chen Q
Previous case reports hint ultraviolet A1 (UVA1) phototherapy as a novel adjunct treatment for acute cutaneous inflammations and neuralgia of herpes zoster, but its clinical effectiveness and safety in this condition are not yet proven by clinical trials. To determine the efficacy and safety of UVA1 phototherapy as an adjunct treatment for acute inflammation and neuralgia in herpes zoster. A total of 60 patients with moderate-to-severe acute herpes zoster were randomly divided into two parallel groups. Group I received regular treatment and UVA1, and Group II received regular treatment alone. Time of blister crusting and acute erythema subside, assessment of pain, sleep, anxiety, and quality of life were recorded accordingly. In Groups I and II, 28 and 29 patients completed the treatment and follow-up, respectively, with no significant demographic or baseline differences. UVA1 therapy notably reduced blister crusting time and acute erythema subside time and achieved more rapid pain relief within the first 2 weeks. However, it did not significantly alter the rate of postherpetic neuralgia occurrence. Additionally, UVA1 therapy significantly improved anxiety and quality of life scores at the 2-week mark. The primary adverse effects were mild burning and hyperpigmentation at the treatment site. UVA1 phototherapy as an adjunct treatment can expedite the resolution of acute inflammatory cutaneous lesions and neuralgia associated with herpes zoster, providing swifter relief from anxiety and enhancing patient quality of life during the acute phase, with demonstrated good tolerability and safety.
Microneedling Radiofrequency for Acne Vulgaris in Adolescents as a Promising Device-Based Treatment: A Clinical Case Series
Lodi G, Fusco I, Zingoni T, Cannarozzo G and Sannino M
Acne vulgaris is a persistent inflammatory condition affecting the sebaceous unit, in whose pathophysiology the Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) play an important role, and that can have major psychological effects. The current study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of an innovative fractional microneedle radiofrequency (RFMN) device for acne management in adolescents. A total of 21 Caucasian young patients with facial acne of all grades of severity underwent three treatment sessions spaced 15/30 days apart with an RFMN device. The Acne Radar Questionnaire was administered to all patients. The data were represented using Radar graph, and the sample population was distributed in quartiles. The first quartile, the second quartile, and the third quartile were calculated for all patient populations before and at 6 months follow-up (6 MFU). The evaluation of the severity of acne lesions was assessed by using the Global Acne Severity scale. Photographs of patients with acne were acquired with a digital camera before and at 6 MFU after the last treatment session. The mean values of each item of the Acne Radar Questionnaire significantly ( < 0.001) improved for all patients treated. The analyses obtained by the quartiles showed that all variables improved after the treatment with the study device. The photographic images confirm the positive results and the improvement of acne lesions. No major side effects were observed. The study system appears to be an effective and safe treatment choice for patients with inflammatory active acne and acne scarring.
Research Advances in Terahertz Technology for Skin Detection
Yimingjiang M, Geng S, Ye Z, Guan Y, Liu X and Huang G
With the continuous development of Terahertz technology and its high sensitivity to water, Terahertz technology has been widely applied in various research areas within the field of biomedicine, such as research onskin wounds and burns, demonstrating numerous advantages and potential. The aim of this study is to summarize and conclude the current research status of Terahertz radiation in skin wounds, burns, and melanoma. Additionally, it seeks toreveal the development status of Terahertz in skin wound models and analyze the short comings of Terahertz in detecting such models at the present stage. We retrieved relevant literature published from the inception of the Web of Science and CNKI databases up to 2024. The search terms included "THz," "Terahertz," "skin," "wound," "burn," and "melanoma." High-quality articles were included after rigorous screening. This review explores the progress of terahertz radiation technology in the treatment and diagnosis of skin wounds and other related diseases. The results of its interaction with skin tissues provide valuable insights for future research. Terahertz radiation imaging has proven to be effective in assessing burn severity, capturing changes in edema, measuring exudates in dressings, assisting in burn grading and detection, and quantifying wound changes over time. Terahertz technology offers significant advantages in trauma assessment, which has accelerated its development and adoption in this field. (4) However, fs-THz radiation has been found to have the potential drawback of affecting wound healing. This finding necessitates careful consideration before application, and further research is warranted to explore its role in burn assessment and other medical applications.
Photobiomodulation and Physical Exercise Modulate of Cell Survival Proteins in the Skeletal Muscle of Rats with Heart Failure and Diabetes Mellitus
Bahr AC, Scherer NB, de Gregório E, Kieling L, de Castro AL, Araujo ASDR, Türck P and Dal Lago P
Heart failure (HF) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) are global health problems that often lead to muscle atrophy. These conditions are associated with increased autophagy and apoptosis in the muscle cells, resulting in decreased muscle mass. Physical exercise associated with photobiomodulation (PBM) seems promising to attenuate the skeletal muscle changes caused by HF and DM2, due to its direct effects on mitochondria, which may result in an increase in antioxidant capacity. To verify the influence of physical exercise and the association with PBM on autophagy, apoptosis, and cell survival signaling pathways in myocytes from rats with HF and DM2. Male rats were assigned to one of four groups: control (CT), HF+DM (disease model), exercise+HF+DM (EX+HF+DM), and EX+HF+DM+PBM (EX+HF+DM+PBM). To induce DM2, we administered streptozotocin (STZ) (0.25 mL/kg, intraperitoneally). HF was induced by coronary ligation. One week post-induction, an 8-week aerobic exercise and PBM protocol was initiated. Western blot analysis was used to measure the expression of apoptosis-related proteins and autophagy. The EX+HF+DM+PBM group showed a substantial increase in Nrf2, -AKT, and LC3-I levels compared to the HF+DM group. These findings suggest that physical exercise combined with PBM can upregulate proteins that promote myocyte survival in rats with HF and DM2.
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Scoping Review
Brandão MGSA and Rabeh SAN
To map the literature about photodynamic therapy in treating diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetic foot ulcers get constantly infected, thus culminating in hospitalizations and amputations. Photodynamic therapy is an antimicrobial treatment that may assist in the healing process. A search of nine electronic information sources was made as determined by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Two independent researchers accomplished a screening of studies with the support of Rayyan. The data were analyzed through Iramutec®. The sample consisted of 27 studies. Photodynamic therapy was identified as safe and effective, with the ability to reduce pain, edema, exudate, extent of the injury region, microbial load, and the risks of infection, osteomyelitis, and amputations. The capacity of photodynamic therapy to relieve symptoms, decrease risks of complications, and accelerate the healing process highlights its potential positive impact on clinical practice.
Efficacy of Laser Acupuncture on Neurophysiological Parameters of Median Nerve and Hand Function in Postpartum Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Botla AM, Lasheen YR, Mohamed SS, Alwhaibi RM, Zakaria HM, Ragab WM and El-Shafei MA
This study was conducted to ascertain the efficacy of photo acupuncture (PA) on the neurophysiological parameters of the median nerve and hand function in postnatal women. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has been documented in up to 62% of pregnant females. PA, a noninvasive treatment that utilizes photo therapy on acupoints, could aid in the management of CTS. Thirty-six postpartum women diagnosed with CTS depending on their medical history, physical examination, and electrodiagnostic study were distributed into two equal-sized groups at random. The PA group ( = 18) received PA for 12 min on the following acupuncture points: PC4, PC6, PC7, PC8, HT2, HT3, HT7, LI10, LI11, LI4, LU9, and LU10. The treatment was given 3 times weekly for four weeks; in addition, night splints were worn. Women in the control group ( = 18) just wore night splints. Before and after the 12-session treatment, each woman was assessed using an electrodiagnostic test to measure the motor distal latency (MDL), sensory distal latency (SDL), motor conduction velocity (MCV), sensory conduction velocity (SCV), pinch dynamometer for assessing pinch strength, and the Brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire (BMHQ) for assessing hand function. A statistically significant improvement was observed in both groups after therapy regarding SDL, SCV, MDL, MCV, pinch strength, and BMHQ ( < 0.05) in favor of the PA group. Adding PA to a night splint should be suggested as an effective conservative therapy for CTS in postpartum women.
Photodynamic Therapy or Palliative Resection Versus Biliary Stenting for Advanced Cholangiocarcinoma: A Network Meta-Analysis
Dong S, Jiang A, Liu Q and An S
We assessed the efficacy of evaluating palliative resection (R1/R2 resection), photodynamic therapy (PDT), and biliary stenting (stent) alone in the treatment of advanced cholangiocarcinoma using a reticulated meta-analysis. A systematical retrieval in PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library was performed for relative literature on the effects of PDT, palliative resection, and simple biliary stenting in the treatment of advanced cholangiocarcinoma. A literature search updated to January 30, 2024, was performed. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies-of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tools were used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies, and Addis-1.16 0.6 software for reticulated meta-analysis. The results showed that PDT and palliative resection were superior to biliary stenting alone in improving 1-, 2-, and 3-year survivals, and the incidence of cholangitis. The relative effectiveness of PDT, palliative resection, and biliary stent placement alone in improving survival was as follows: PDT, palliative resection, and biliary stent placement alone. There is no significant difference between PDT and palliative resection in improving patient survival time, and PDT does not increase the incidence of cholangitis.