Journal of lasers in medical sciences最新文献

Introduction: Dental caries remains a prevalent oral health issue worldwide, with Lactobacillus acidophilus playing a significant role in its progression. While traditional antimicrobial agents like chlorhexidine are effective, the increasing concern of antimicrobial resistance has spurred interest in alternative approaches. Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma, a form of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), has shown promise in various biomedical applications, including dentistry. This in vitro study aims to determine the effect of DBD plasma radiation on the amount of L. acidophilus bacteria. Methods: Lactobacillus acidophilus (ATCC 43121) cultures were subjected to DBD plasma treatment for 30, 90, 120, and 150 seconds. A positive control group was treated with 2% chlorhexidine, and a negative control received no treatment. Bacterial viability was assessed using colony-forming unit (CFU) counts. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test were used for statistical analysis. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results: The 30-second DBD plasma treatment significantly reduced L. acidophilus populations compared to the negative control (32.9% reduction, P<0.001). However, longer exposure times (90, 120, and 150 seconds) showed diminished antibacterial effects. The 2% chlorhexidine treatment demonstrated the highest antibacterial efficacy (54.8% reduction, P<0.001 compared to all other groups). Conclusion: It seems that short-duration DBD plasma treatment (30 seconds) effectively reduced L. acidophilus populations, although not as efficiently as chlorhexidine. Interestingly, prolonged plasma exposure did not enhance antibacterial effects, suggesting a potential adaptive response of bacteria to extended plasma treatment. These findings highlight the promise of DBD plasma as a novel approach to dental caries prevention while emphasizing the need for optimized treatment parameters.

Introduction: Sunscreen plays an unexpected role in protecting the skin against the harmful effects of sunlight. Skin protection against UV rays is highlighted as the main property of sunscreen. The present study investigated the core part of the molecular mechanism of skin protection by sunscreen. Methods: Gene expression changes of the irradiated human skin with sunlight in the presence of sunscreen were mined from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and analyzed to find the significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The central DEGs were identified via the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and searched in skin cancer-related genes in the GeneCards database to find the critical dysregulated genes. The gene expression change of the critical genes was investigated in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Results: A total of 377 DEGs were determined as the targeted genes. HSPA4, PTEN, CDC42, ERBB2, APP, CDKN2A, PRKACA, PECAM1, and SMAD3 were identified as the critical dysregulated genes. ERBB2, SMAD3, and PRKACA were pointed out as the skin cancer-related genes. Conclusion: In conclusion, the up-regulation of PETN and the activation of CDKN2A were highlighted as the major induced molecular events by sunscreen, which play a role in skin protection.

Introduction: Blue light with therapeutic properties is the high-energy part of the visible light spectrum with various biological effects. The main aim of this study is to elucidate blue light exposure and anxiety via protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Methods: Anxiety-related genes were extracted from the GeneCards database and assessed via gene clustering and PPI network analysis to identify the hub genes. Blue light-targeted genes in 3D skin were revealed from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and the significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. The significant DEGs were searched among the hub genes. The common significant DEGs and the hub genes, together with their first neighbors, were determined and discussed. Results: A total number of 56 significant DEGs were pointed out as the targets of blue light. Among the 10696 anxiety-related genes, 772 individuals were selected as top genes and evaluated via PPI network analysis. IL6 appeared as the common gene between the significant DEGs and the 55 hub genes of the PPI network. Twelve genes were pointed out as the first neighbors of IL6. GIFtS analysis showed that Il6, H3-5, PFN1, DEFB103A, HMGB1, and RPLP1 were genes related to anxiety and were targeted by blue light. Conclusion: In conclusion, six targeted genes by blue light were related to anxiety. Downregulation of IL6 appeared as a factor in improving anxiety. However, the first neighbors of IL6 were not consistent with the role of IL6 in the decrement of anxiety.

Introduction: Holmium laser prostatectomy (HoLEP) is widely used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), though primary bladder neck obstruction (PBNO) is less commonly recognized despite similar symptoms. Treatment outcomes can vary, especially when diagnosis is delayed, but the condition is sometimes not very different from BPH. The purpose of this study was to compare PBNO patients with those undergoing surgery for BPH, even though PBNO is not always treated surgically. Methods: A total of 79 men from three hospitals in Jordan (PBNO=30, BPH=49) were reviewed retrospectively. They all received HoLEP regardless of individual suitability or prior diagnostic clarity. Data were collected through symptom scoring (IPSS, OABSS), but not all patients completed the follow-ups equally. Results: While patients with PBNO showed symptom improvement after surgery, the improvements were not always significant or clearly linked to the procedure itself. Interestingly, PBNO patients had shorter surgeries (27.2 vs. 60.5 minutes, P<0.01), though it is unclear whether that impacted recovery. Despite reporting fewer complications, their satisfaction was lower (64.3% vs. 93.8%, P=0.09), perhaps due to reasons not directly assessed in the study. Repeated Measures ANOVA revealed a statistically significant improvement in IPSS scores over time in both groups: PBNO (F(2.1, 58.4)=16.8, P<0.001) and BPH (F(2.4, 116.8)=21.3, P<0.001). Similarly, OABSS scores showed a significant improvement over time for both PBNO (F(2.6, 74.0)=8.9, P<0.001) and BPH (F(2.8, 134.2)=9.7, P<0.001). Conclusion: HoLEP appears effective for PBNO, though it may not be the most suitable approach in all cases. Since PBNO differs from BPH, further studies might be needed, or perhaps not, depending on patient variability.

Introduction: Osteonecrosis causes the death of bone tissue due to insufficient blood flow, which disrupts the supply of oxygen and nutrients, compromising the structural integrity of the bone. The jaws are particularly vulnerable due to their high bone turnover and vascularization. This study aimed to present the complex case of a patient diagnosed with maxillary osteonecrosis associated with osteomyelitis, treated exclusively with laser therapy. Case Report: We present the case of a 62-year-old male patient with maxillary osteonecrosis associated with osteomyelitis, manifested by an oroantral fistula located in the upper jaw. The treatment consisted of various laser therapy modalities, starting with the surgical phase on hard tissue for the excision of the necrotic bone (Er,Cr:YSGG 2780 nm laser), followed by photodynamic therapy (650 nm diode laser) for wound disinfection and intravascular laser irradiation of blood (ILIB) therapy (880 nm diode laser) in each session. Conclusion: The combination of different laser wavelengths was effective for the treatment of osteonecrosis.

Introduction: Prostate cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in men and remains a major global health concern. Traditional treatment modalities such as radical prostatectomy (RP) and radiation therapy, while effective, often result in significant morbidity, including urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction. Methods: A narrative review was conducted to synthesize current evidence on focal laser therapy for prostate cancer. A comprehensive literature search was performed across three major databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search strategy employed the following Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords: ("Prostatic Neoplasms" [MeSH] OR "prostate cancer") AND ("Laser Therapy" [MeSH] OR "laser ablation" OR "focal therapy"). The search was limited to studies published between 2000 and 2024. Results: The initial search retrieved 1,444 articles. After a rigorous screening of titles, abstracts, and full-texts, 79 studies met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the review. The selected literature enables a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the current state of research on focal laser therapy in the management of prostate cancer. Conclusion: While focal laser therapies offer promising outcomes with fewer side effects, their long-term efficacy and survival benefits remain uncertain. High-quality studies with long-term follow-up are essential to better define their role in the prostate cancer treatment landscape and inform optimal patient selection.

Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition characterized by primary mechanical damage followed by secondary injury processes, including inflammation and gliosis. These complex pathophysiological responses significantly hinder neuronal recovery and functional restoration. Emerging therapies, such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), offer promising avenues for mitigating these secondary effects and promoting repair. This review aims to explore the pathophysiology of SCI, with a focus on inflammation and gliosis, and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of LLLT in improving outcomes after SCI. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Database, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases to identify studies published from 2000 to 2024. Keywords included "spinal cord injury," "inflammation," "gliosis," and "low-level laser therapy." Articles were screened based on relevance, and data were extracted and synthesized to provide insights into the mechanisms and therapeutic applications. Results: Inflammation following SCI involves a cascade of cellular and molecular events that contribute to secondary damage. Gliosis, predominantly driven by astrocytes and microglia, forms a glial scar that impedes axonal regeneration. While these processes are initially protective, their prolonged activation exacerbates neural damage. LLLT has shown the potential to modulate these responses by reducing oxidative stress, promoting anti-inflammatory pathways, and enhancing neuroprotection. Preclinical studies demonstrate that LLLT improves functional recovery, reduces gliosis, and supports axonal regeneration, although standardized protocols and clinical validation remain challenges. Conclusion: The interplay between inflammation and gliosis significantly influences the outcomes of SCI. LLLT emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy by targeting these processes and promoting regeneration. Further research is needed to standardize LLLT protocols and validate its efficacy in clinical settings, paving the way for improved management of SCI.

Introduction: Erosion is the loss of minerals by acids without the intervention of microorganisms. Complications caused by erosion make the use of therapeutic agents necessary. This study aims to survey the effects of the eggshell, the Er,Cr:YSGG laser, and their combination on the remineralization of erosive lesions caused by lemonade. Methods: The microhardness of 40 impacted third molar teeth was measured in this laboratory study. Then, the samples were subjected to an erosion challenge using a regular lemonade drink. After measuring microhardness, the samples were exposed to remineralizing materials: Er, Cr:YSG laser, eggshell, laser Er,Cr:YSGG, eggshell, and fluoride (positive control), and artificial saliva (negative control). Finally, data were analyzed via Kolmogorov-Smirnov, mixed-model analysis of variance (ANOVA), and LSD post hoc tests. Results: The microhardness of permanent third molar teeth, which was reduced after using lemonade, increased significantly after laser application compared to fluoride and artificial saliva. No significant difference was observed between the five experimental groups while there were statistically significant differences between the three stages of the study. Moreover, there was a significant interaction between the groups and stages (group * stage). The SMH of fluoride, artificial saliva, and laser+solution groups did not significantly change in the three stages of the study whilst the SMH of laser and solution groups significantly changed in the three stages. The SMH of the laser group had the most increasing trend (between erosive and treatment stages), followed by laser+solution and solution groups. However, the change in the laser+solution group was not statistically noticeable. Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the Er,Cr:YSGG laser alone can be effective in the remineralization of erosive lesions caused by lemonade.

Introduction: Recent evidence suggests that the combination of exercise and photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) enhances muscle performance, including improvements in strength, hypertrophy, and fatigue resistance. As muscle tissue changes after training, a dose progression over time may show additional effects. However, there needs to be more clarity regarding the optimal physical parameters for enhancing muscle performance. Thus, the aim was to evaluate the impact of strength training combined with PBMT at fixed or progressive doses on strength performance, metabolic activity, and clinical outcomes in healthy individuals. Methods: This was a double-blind, randomized clinical trial. Fifty-six male participants were randomly allocated into four groups: Sham, minimal dose (60 J), maximal dose (300 J), and incremental dose (60-300 J). Baseline assessments included body composition analysis and isokinetic dynamometry (peak torque and total work of the quadriceps femoris and hamstring muscles), followed by ten sessions of strength training combined with PBMT applied before each exercise session, which consisted of three sets of stiff and squats. PBMT irradiation was applied to the quadriceps and hamstrings. Training loads and psychophysiological responses were monitored throughout the intervention. Participants were reassessed at the end of the training period and followed up for a total duration of seven days. Results: No significant differences were observed between the groups in isokinetic strength parameters (P>0.05), although small to moderate effect sizes favored the Incremental and Maximal Dose groups. Similar patterns were found for psychophysiological responses and training loads across the groups. Conclusion: In the context of this research model, PBMT combined with strength training did not yield superior outcomes in muscle strength, psychophysiological, or metabolic parameters compared to the different dosing strategies evaluated.

Introduction: The current study aims at evaluating the effectiveness of low level laser therapy (LLLT) in intra-bony defect regeneration by comparing the clinical parameters between periodontitis patients with intra-bony defects treated with simplified papilla preservation flap (SPPF) alone and SPPF with the adjunctive use of LLLT. Methods: The current study is a randomized controlled clinical trial involving 64 patients/sites, 32 sites treated with SPPF - control group and 32 sites treated with SPPF and adjunctive use of LLLT (SPPF+LLLT) - test group. Clinical parameters such as probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), position of gingival margin (PGM), radiographic intra-bony defect depth (R-IBD), full mouth plaque score (FMPS), and full mouth bleeding score (FMBS) were evaluated at baseline, 6 months, and one year post-surgery. Radiographic defect depths were assessed at baseline and one year post-surgery. The results were statistically analyzed. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in the PPD, CAL, PGM, and radiographic defect depth in the test group at the 6 months and one year post-surgery when compared with the control group (P<0.05). In addition, the total number of sites with PPD more than 4 mm was reduced significantly in the test group when compared to the control group at 6 months and one year. Conclusion: The current study reports a significant improvement in PPD and radiographic intrabony defect fill in periodontitis patients treated with adjunctive LLLT supplementing SPPF. The article evaluates the adjunctive usage of LLLT in periodontal regeneration. The results reiterate the synergistic role of LLLT with periodontal surgical therapy for accelerated regenerative outcomes.