A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials on the Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy on Running Performance.

Objective: To conduct a meta-analysis to investigate the effects of Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy on running performance. Introduction: PBM has recently been advocated as a valuable non-pharmacological ergogenic strategy, however, the efficacy of PBM on running performance remains unproven. Methods: A computerized literature search was conducted until June 2023. The databases searched were PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. Inclusion/exclusion criteria were determined through the PICO process. The running variables analyzed were time-trial or time-to-exhaustion. Results were combined with the standardized mean differences (SMD) and the 95% confidence intervals. Results: Twelve studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. No significant effects in favor of PBM were found (SMD = 0.13; p = 0.11). There was no effect considering the presence (SMD = 0.16; p = 0.38) and absence (SMD = 0.11; p = 0.25) of training, and there was no dose-response effect (p = 0.82). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that PBM alone or combined with a training program does not improve running performance in terms of time-trial and time-to-exhaustion testing. More studies involving PBM plus training and doses higher than 1000 J are needed to determine if PBM is effective in improving running performance.

The effect of combined red, blue, and near-infrared light-emitting diode (LED) photobiomodulation therapy on speed of wound healing after superficial ablative fractional resurfacing.

Objective of the study is to assess the effects of wound healing with a commercially available light emitting diode (LED) photo biomodulation (PBM) device that emits three wavelengths (465, 640 and 880nm) after ablative fractional laser (AFL) treatment to healthy skin on the bilateral inner biceps. We conducted a prospective intraindividual randomized controlled study with 25 volunteers. AFL treatment was performed on healthy skin of the bilateral inner biceps. Subjects applied the LED light device for 30 min to the assigned bicep 3 times a week over 4 weeks, beginning on day 0. Subjects were followed up on days 2, 4, 6, 9, 13, 20 and 27 for treatment with the PBM device, clinical digital photography of the test and control sites, and in-person subject assessment, with follow ups on days 34 and 55 for clinical photography and assessment. Three blinded evaluators were asked to determine which bicep healed faster between day 0 to day 13. Pain, discomfort, and itch were also assessed. The three blinded evaluators chose the treatment arm as the faster healed arm in greater than 50% of the images, although the results were not statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference between test and control arms in terms of pain, discomfort and itch. In conclusion, PBM therapy has the potential to improve wound healing. In this study, a three wavelength PBM device resulted in some subjects achieving faster healing after AFL but the results were not statistically significant.

Comparison of the therapeutic efficacy of magneto-LED therapy and magnetostimulation applied as the adjuvant treatment of venous leg ulcers - preliminary study.

PURPOSE: Venous leg ulcers are chronic wounds that are difficult to cure. The aim of the study was to compare the therapeutic efficacy of two methods of physical medicine - magneto-LED therapy and magnetostimulation, applied as adjuvant treatment in the treatment of venous leg ulcers. METHODS: The study included 81 patients, 37 male (45.6%) and 44 female (54.3%) ones, age range between 45 and 90 years, with venous leg ulcers. The patients were assigned to two study groups: magneto-LED therapy (group 1) or magnetostimulation (group 2). In both groups, a total of 40 daily procedures were performed. Wound healing was evaluated using computerized planimetry and the pain intensity on numeric rating scale. RESULTS: After treatment, the decrease in healing rate in group 1 was statistically significantly higher in comparison to group 2 (p < 0.001), while a statistically significant reduction in the surface area of ulcers was obtained, amounting on the average from 6.34 ± 1.29 cm2 to 2.31 ± 1.25 cm2 in group 1 (p < 0.001), and from 6.52 ± 1.20 cm2 to 4.79 ± 1.17 cm2 in group 2 (p < 0.001). The percentage changes of ulcers area in group 1 (64.21 ± 17.94%) were statistically significantly greater as compared to group 2 (25.87 ± 14.07%) (p < 0.001). After treatment, the decrease in pain relief in group 1 was statistically significantly higher in comparison to group 2 (p = 0.006), while pain intensity after treatment decreased statistically significantly in both compared groups of patients (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Magneto-LED therapy and magnetostimulation caused significant reduction of surface area of the treated venous leg ulcers and pain intensity, yet magneto-LED therapy was more efficient. Both evaluated methods also significantly reduced pain intensity.

Chronic wounds are wounds, which despite ongoing treatment, do not heal within 6­8 weeks. A wound that occurs as a result of an ongoing disease process is called an ulcer. Leg ulcers are still a significant challenge for modern medicine because they are characterized by complex etiology, chronic pain and require specific diagnostic and therapeutic measures. In many cases, the inability to heal ulcers quickly is associated with social isolation, long-term suffering and deterioration of the quality of life of treated patients. In addition to standard treatment including surgery, pharmacotherapy and compression therapy, new more effective methods of ulcer therapy are still being sought. Nowadays, physical treatment methods are increasingly used as a supporting treatment the healing of chronic wounds. In the study, variable magnetic fields and low-energy light were used in the treatment of 81 patients (including 44 women and 37 men) in aged 45­90 years. All patients had chronic, non-healing of venous leg ulcers accompanied by severe pain. After completion of treatment, both groups of patients experienced a significant reduction of surface area of treated ulcers and a reduction in the intensity of pain ailments. According to our study results, the use of magnetic field and light therapy can be an important supportive treatment option in patients with venous leg ulcers.

The sustainability of midwifery group practice: A cross-sectional study of midwives and managers.

PROBLEM: Although there is robust evidence for the benefits of midwifery group practice (MGP) caseload care, there are limited opportunities for women to access this model in Australia. There is also limited knowledge on how to sustain these services. BACKGROUND: MGP can benefit childbearing women and babies and improve satisfaction for women and midwives. However, sustainability of the model is challenging. While MGPs are often supported and celebrated, in Australia some services have closed, while others struggle to adequately staff MGPs. AIM: To investigate midwives and managers opinions on the management, culture, and sustainability of MGP. METHODS: A national survey of MGP midwives and managers was distributed (2021 and 2022). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. RESULTS: A total of 579 midwives and 90 managers completed the survey. The findings suggest that many MGPs do not support new graduates and students to work in MGP. Over half (59.8%) the participants (midwives and managers) reported that the women and families were the best aspect about working in MGP, while 44.3% said the effects on midwives' lifestyle and families were the worst aspect. DISCUSSION: The relationship with women remains the major motivator for providing MGP care. However, work-life imbalance is a deterrent, exacerbated by staffing shortages. Staffing might be improved by adequate renumeration, strengthening orientation, and attracting new graduates and students through experience in MGP. CONCLUSIONS: There is a need to attract midwives to MGP and improve work-life balance and sustainability.

Photobiomodulation with 630-nm LED Inhibits M1 Macrophage Polarization via STAT1 Pathway Against Sepsis-Induced Acute Lung Injury.

Background: Sepsis-induced acute lung injury (ALI) is a clinical syndrome characterized by excessive uncontrolled inflammation. Photobiomodulation such as light-emitting diode (LED) irradiation has been used to attenuate inflammatory disease. Objective: The protective effect of 630 nm LED irradiation on sepsis-induced ALI remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of 630 nm LED irradiation in sepsis-induced ALI and its underlying mechanism. Methods and results: C57BL/6 mice were performed cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) for 12 h to generate experimental sepsis models. Histopathology analysis showed that alveolar injury, inflammatory cells infiltration, and hemorrhage were suppressed in CLP mice after 630 nm LED irradiation. The ratio of wet/dry weigh of lung tissue was significantly inhibited by irradiation. The number of leukocytes was reduced in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) results and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed that 630 nm LED irradiation significantly inhibited the mRNA and protein levels of M1 macrophage-related genes in the lung of CLP-induced septic mice. Meanwhile, LED irradiation significantly inhibited signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) phosphorylation in the lung of septic mice. In vitro experiments showed that 630 nm LED irradiation significantly inhibited M1 genes mRNA and protein expression in THP-1-derived M1 macrophages without affecting the cell viability. LED irradiation also significantly inhibited the level of STAT1 phosphorylation in THP-1-derived M1 macrophages. Conclusions: We concluded that 630 nm LED is promising as a treatment against ALI through inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization, which is associated with the downregulation of STAT1 phosphorylation.

Effects of low­power red laser and blue LED on mRNA levels from DNA repair genes in human breast cancer cells.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) induced by non-ionizing radiations emitted from low-power lasers and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) has been used for various therapeutic purposes due to its molecular, cellular, and systemic effects. At the molecular level, experimental data have suggested that PBM modulates base excision repair (BER), which is responsible for restoring DNA damage. There is a relationship between the misfunction of the BER DNA repair pathway and the development of tumors, including breast cancer. However, the effects of PBM on cancer cells have been controversial. Breast cancer (BC) is the main public health problem in the world and is the most diagnosed type of cancer among women worldwide. Therefore, the evaluation of new strategies, such as PBM, could increase knowledge about BC and improve therapies against BC. Thus, this work aims to evaluate the effects of low-power red laser (658 nm) and blue LED (470 nm) on the mRNA levels from BER genes in human breast cancer cells. MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were irradiated with a low-power red laser (69 J cm-2, 0.77 W cm-2) and blue LED (482 J cm-2, 5.35 W cm-2), alone or in combination, and the relative mRNA levels of the APTX, PolB, and PCNA genes were assessed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results suggested that exposure to low-power red laser and blue LED decreased the mRNA levels from APTX, PolB, and PCNA genes in human breast cancer cells. Our research shows that photobiomodulation induced by low-power red laser and blue LED decreases the mRNA levels of repair genes from the base excision repair pathway in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells.

Low-Leakage Current Core-Shell AlGaN Nanorod LED Device Operating in the Ultraviolet-B Band.

Despite the considerable potential of AlGaN-based ultraviolet-B light-emitting diodes (UV-B LEDs) in various applications such as phototherapy, UV curing, plant growth, and analytical technology, their development is still ongoing due to low luminescence efficiency. In this study, we introduced a novel epitaxial growth mechanism to effectively control the height and thickness of AlGaN multiple wells (MWs) on AlGaN nanorod structures using horizontal reactor-based metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). By adjusting the H2 carrier gas flow rate, we could control the growth boundary layer's thickness, successfully separating the AlGaN well and p-AlGaN layer from the substrate. Cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements confirmed the stability of the core-shell AlGaN quantum wells as a highly stable nonpolarized structure, with the wavelength peak remaining almost unchanged under various injection currents. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provided clear evidence of differentiation, highlighting the distinct formation of the 275 nm AlGaN core and the 295 nm AlGaN shell structure. The developed AlGaN MW structure, characterized by these rectification features, not only demonstrated a significantly improved electroluminescence (EL) peak intensity but also exhibited a much lower leakage current compared to the conventional core-shell AlGaN structure. The newly proposed growth mechanism and advanced nonpolarized core-shell AlGaN structure are expected to serve as excellent alternatives for substantially enhancing the efficiency of the next generation of high-efficiency UV LEDs.

Acceptability of a Self-Led Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Teens with Type 1 Diabetes: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes distress among adolescents with type 1 diabetes has been associated with suboptimal diabetes outcomes, including lower quality of life, increased diabetes self-management challenges, and suboptimal glycemic outcomes. OBJECTIVE: This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of a scalable self-led mindfulness-based intervention to reduce diabetes distress in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. METHODS: Adolescents (N=25) aged between 14 and 18 years diagnosed with type 1 diabetes completed a baseline assessment. Participants were randomized to receive a 10-week self-guided mindfulness-based stress reduction workbook program (e-book or paper option) immediately (n=15) or after a 10-week wait (n=10). During the intervention period, participants completed weekly assignments and feedback surveys. At 10 weeks and 20 weeks, follow-up assessments were completed. RESULTS: Findings indicated that participants did not find the original intervention feasible or acceptable. Adolescents reported barriers to completing the weekly material, such as that they forgot or that the material was not sufficiently related to their diabetes management. Adolescents also reported that a digital format rather than a workbook or e-book may be more acceptable. Results from weekly surveys provided the foundation for recommendations for future iterations of the mindfulness-based intervention for adolescents with type 1 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Participant feedback informed recommendations for self-led mindfulness programs for youth with type 1 diabetes. Adolescents indicated that a shorter, digital mindfulness-based intervention focused on diabetes-specific behaviors may be more helpful. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05115175; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05115175.

Consensus-based recommendations for the care of women with a breech presenting fetus.

OBJECTIVE: To establish consensus related to aspects of breech presentation and care. DESIGN: A multinational, three round e-Delphi study. PARTICIPANTS: A panel of 15 midwives, four obstetricians and an academic with knowledge and/or experience of caring for women with a breech presenting fetus. METHODS: An initial survey of 45 open-ended questions. Answers were coded and amalgamated to form 448 statements in the second round and three additional statements in the third round. Panellists were asked to provide their level of agreement for each statement using a 5-point Likert scale. Consensus was deemed met if 70% of panellists responded with strongly agree to somewhat agree, or strongly disagree to somewhat disagree after the second round. FINDINGS: Results led to the development of a consensus-based care pathway for women with a breech presenting fetus and a skills development framework for clinicians. KEY CONCLUSIONS: A cultural shift is beginning to occur through the provision of physiological breech workshops offered by various organisations and may result in greater access to skilled and experienced clinicians for women desiring a vaginal breech birth, ultimately improving the safety of breech birth. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICES: The care pathway and skills development framework can be used by services wishing to make changes to their current practices related to breech presentation and increase the level of skill in their workforce.

First alongside midwifery led unit in a high complexity public hospital in Spain: Maternal and neonatal outcomes.

PROBLEM: Midwifery led units are rare in Spain. BACKGROUND: Midwife-Led Care (MLC) is a widely extended model of care and, within this, the alongside midwifery-led units (AMLU) are those hospital-based and located in close connection with obstetric units. In Spain, CL is the first center belonging to the National Health System of these characteristics. AIM: To evaluate the first year of activity of this pioneering unit. METHODS: An observational cross-sectional study was carried out to assess maternal and neonatal outcomes of births facilitated at CL by comparing with those births that fulfilled the criteria to be admitted at the AMLU but were assisted at the standard obstetric care unit of the hospital. FINDINGS: 174 (20,3%) women and birthing people decided to give birth at CL, whereas 684 (79,7%) gave birth at the Obstetric Unit of the Hospital. Women assisted at the AMLU had lower intervention rates (episiotomy, epidural analgesia) and a higher rate of breastfeeding practice. There were no statistical differences in maternal outcomes (postpartum hemorrhage, third-or-four-degree laceration) or neonatal outcomes (Apgar< 7 at 5 min; birth weight < 2500 gr; macrosomia; shoulder dystocia, neonatal care transfer). DISCUSSION: There were differences in transfers from MLU to OU between nulliparous and multiparous; the main reason for transfer is the request for analgesia. Epidural analgesia should be considered when analyzing maternal outcomes. CONCLUSION: An alongside midwifery-led unit is a safe option with a low incidence of complications. This model of care can be positively implemented at the Public Healthcare System.

Midwifery group practice workforce in Australia: A cross-sectional survey of midwives and managers.

BACKGROUND: Despite robust evidence on the benefits of midwifery group practice (MGP), there remains difficulties with implementing and sustaining the model. However, contemporary data on the MGP workforce and how each model has been operationalised are limited. This constrains an understanding of the factors that help or hinder implementation and sustainability of MGP. AIM: To describe the characteristics of Australian MGPs and the factors that help or hinder sustainability. METHODS: A national cross-sectional survey was undertaken in Australia between March 2021 and July 2022, inclusive. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive analysis while qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. FINDINGS: Of 669 survey responses, 579 were midwives and 90 were managers. The mean years of experience for clinical midwives was eight years, and 47.8% (almost twice the national average) completed a Bachelor of Midwifery (BMid). Half (50.2%) the models provided care for women of all risk. Midwives resigned from MGP because of the MGP work conditions (30%) and how the service was managed or supported (12.7%). Managers resigned from MGP because of role changes, conflict with their manager, and limited support. Almost half (42.6%) of MGP managers also managed other areas, leading to heavy workloads, competing demands, and burnout. CONCLUSION: The BMid appears to be a common educational pathway for MGP midwives, and many MGP services are providing care to women with complexities. Flexible practice agreements, organisational support and appropriate workloads are vital for recruitment, retention, and sustainability of MGP.

An alternative model of maternity care for low-risk birth: Maternal and neonatal outcomes utilizing the midwifery-based birth center model.

OBJECTIVE: To assess key birth outcomes in an alternative maternity care model, midwifery-based birth center care. DATA SOURCES: The American Association of Birth Centers Perinatal Data Registry and birth certificate files, using national data collected from 2009 to 2019. STUDY DESIGN: This observational cohort study compared key clinical birth outcomes of women at low risk for perinatal complications, comparing those who received care in the midwifery-based birth center model versus hospital-based usual care. Linear regression analysis was used to assess key clinical outcomes in the midwifery-based group as compared with hospital-based usual care. The hospital-based group was selected using nearest neighbor matching, and the primary linear regressions were weighted using propensity score weights (PSWs). The key clinical outcomes considered were cesarean delivery, low birth weight, neonatal intensive care unit admission, breastfeeding, and neonatal death. We performed sensitivity analyses using inverse probability weights and entropy balancing weights. We also assessed the remaining role of omitted variable bias using a bounding methodology. DATA COLLECTION: Women aged 16-45 with low-risk pregnancies, defined as a singleton fetus and no record of hypertension or cesarean section, were included. The sample was selected for records that overlapped in each year and state. Counties were included if there were at least 50 midwifery-based birth center births and 300 total births. After matching, the sample size of the birth center cohort was 85,842 and the hospital-based cohort was 261,439. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Women receiving midwifery-based birth center care experienced lower rates of cesarean section (-12.2 percentage points, p < 0.001), low birth weight (-3.2 percentage points, p < 0.001), NICU admission (-5.5 percentage points, p < 0.001), neonatal death (-0.1 percentage points, p < 0.001), and higher rates of breastfeeding (9.3 percentage points, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This analysis supports midwifery-based birth center care as a high-quality model that delivers optimal outcomes for low-risk maternal/newborn dyads.

Canine-Assisted Occupational Therapy for Children within a Student-Led University Clinic: The Influence on Child Engagement from the Perspectives of Student and Parent Participants.

AIMS: Animal-assisted therapy has gained increased attention in occupational therapy. Yet there remains minimal education opportunities available. In addition to supporting student learning, student-led clinics have the potential to provide a valuable, cost-effective health service to the community. This study aimed to explore the potential benefits to the children clients participating in a student-led, canine-assisted occupational therapy pediatric clinic from the perspectives of the students and parents. METHOD: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine occupational therapy students, and five parents to describe their experience. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Participants emphasized how the presence of the therapy dog supported child engagement within the therapy session. Ways in which participants believed the therapy dog influenced the children's engagement were described within three themes. The first highlighted the importance of the relationship between the children and the therapy dog. The second described how this relationship facilitated a sense of safety within the sessions. The third captured how this sense of safety supported the children's participation within their meaningful occupations. CONCLUSIONS: Parents and students involved in the canine-assisted occupational therapy clinic perceived that canine-assisted therapy was supportive of child engagement in therapy.

Antenatal cardiotocography in dutch primary midwife-led care: Maternal and perinatal outcomes and serious adverse events. A prospective observational cohort study.

PROBLEM: It is yet unknown whether shifting antenatal cardiotocography (aCTG) from obstetrician-led to midwife-led care leads to a safe reduction in referrals. BACKGROUND: ACTG is used to assess fetal well-being. In the Netherlands, the procedure has until now been performed as part of obstetrician-led care. Developments in E-health facilitates the performance of aCTG outside the hospital in midwife-led care, hereby increasing continuity of care. AIM: To evaluate 1) process outcomes of implementing aCTG for specific indications in primary midwife-led care; 2) maternal and perinatal outcomes of pregnant women receiving aCTG in midwife-led care; 3) serious adverse events (with outcomes, causes, avoidability, and potential prevention strategies) that have occurred during the innovation project 'aCTG in midwife-led care'. METHODS: Prospective observational cohort study and a case series study of serious adverse events. FINDINGS: A total of 1584 pregnant women with a specific aCTG indication were included in this cohort study for whom 1795 aCTGs were performed in midwife-led care. 1591 aCTGs(89.7%) were classified as reassuring. Referral to obstetrician-led care occurred for 234 women(13.0%) after an aCTG in midwife-led care of whom 202(86%) were referred back. Severe neonatal morbidity occurred in 27 neonates (1.7%). In the 5736 aCTGs included in the case series study, one case with a serious neonatal outcome was assessed as a serious adverse event attributable to human factors. DISCUSSION: ACTGs performed in midwife-led care increased continuity of care. In this innovation project, maternal and perinatal outcomes were in the expected range for women in midwife-led care.

Mechanism of action of photobiomodulation with light-emitting diode on the glutamine-dependent CT26 cell.

We investigated the mechanism of action of photobiomodulation (PBM) with light-emitting diode (led) 640 nm of glutamine-dependent CT26 cells. Cells were exposed to 0.147-10.979 mW/cm2 of 640 ± 15 nm laser light for 15 min/day for 10 days. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by MTT (3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo (-z-y1)-3,5-diphenytetrazoliumromide) and annexin V-FITC assays. mRNA and protein levels of cell proliferation-related genes were measured by RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. With Gln 7.94 mM, on Day 8 and 10, genes GLUT1, MEK1, ERK2, BCL2, E2F1, HO-1, Ctnnb1, and Per2 was significantly upregulated (p < 0.01) of glutamine addiction. In PBM therapy, compared with the non-illuminated group, 2.17 mW/cm2 can significantly reduce cell apoptosis, the mRNA level of gene mTOR1 was significantly upregulated, and the protein level of raptor of GLUT1 and mTOR1, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 were upregulated. LED 640 nm inhibits cell apoptosis without increasing cell proliferation by regulating GLUT1, MEK/ERK, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signals.

The effect of different LED wavelengths on the components and biosynthesis of isoflavonoid in sprout Astragalus membranaceus.

An artificial light source is the optimal element for studying the usability of the medicinal plant Astragalus membranaceus as a sprout vegetable. Based on artificial light source conditions, formononetin (FO) level was the highest (2.6 mg/L) in A. membranaceus exposed to white light emitting diode (LED) light, and calycosin (CA) level was the highest (3.09 mg/L) in the plant exposed to red LED light. According to the publicly available transcriptome data of LED-exposed sprout A. membranaceus LED, reference genes related to the content enhancement of FO, an isoflavone compound, and those related to the content enhancement of CA were selected. The expression patterns of these genes were assayed using qPCR. Among the genes related to FO enhancement, Gene-225190T showed the highest mRNA levels in cells of LED-white light-exposed sprout A. membranaceus; among the genes related to CA enhancement, Gene_042770T showed the highest expression under red LED light. Most genes related to the overall biosynthesis regulation of flavonoids of the upper concept of isoflavone were highly expressed in response to red LED light, and the transcriptional level of 4CL in response to red LED light was the highest. Based on these results, the artificial light sources that regulated the FO and CA contents in sprouts A. membranaceus were white and red LED lights, and the selected reference genes were capable of regulating isoflavone biosynthesis.

Improvement in Yield of Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Edelweiss Callus Treated with LED Light and Enhancement of Skin Anti-Aging Indicators.

The process of skin aging is currently recognized as a disease, and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are being used to care for it. While various EVs are present in the market, there is a growing need for research on improving skin conditions through microbial and plant-derived EVs. Edelweiss is a medicinal plant and is currently an endangered species. Callus culture is a method used to protect rare medicinal plants, and recently, research on EVs using callus culture has been underway. In this study, the researchers used LED light to increase the productivity of Edelweiss EVs and confirmed that productivity was enhanced by LED exposure. Additionally, improvements in skin anti-aging indicators were observed. Notably, M-LED significantly elevated callus fresh and dry weight, with a DW/FW ratio of 4.11%, indicating enhanced proliferation. Furthermore, M-LED boosted secondary metabolite production, including a 20% increase in total flavonoids and phenolics. The study explores the influence of M-LED on EV production, revealing a 2.6-fold increase in concentration compared to darkness. This effect is consistent across different plant species (Centella asiatica, Panax ginseng), demonstrating the universality of the phenomenon. M-LED-treated EVs exhibit a concentration-dependent inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, surpassing dark-cultured EVs. Extracellular melanin content analysis reveals M-LED-cultured EVs' efficacy in reducing melanin production. Additionally, the expression of key skin proteins (FLG, AQP3, COL1) is significantly higher in fibroblasts treated with M-LED-cultured EVs. These results are expected to provide valuable insights into research on improving the productivity of plant-derived EVs and enhancing skin treatment using plant-derived EVs.

The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Multi-Wavelength Light-Emitting Diode Irradiation Attenuates Dry Eye Symptoms in a Scopolamine-Induced Mouse Model of Dry Eye.

Dry eye disease is a common condition in patients of all ages, causing discomfort and potential visual problems. Current treatments, including artificial tears and anti-inflammatory drugs, have certain limitations, encouraging research into alternative therapies. We investigated the therapeutic potential of multi-wavelength light-emitting diode (LED) irradiation of mice with dry eye. First, we showed that multi-wavelength LED irradiation was non-toxic to human corneal epithelial cells and improved cell viability. We then used a scopolamine-induced mouse model of dry eye to assess the effects of multi-wavelength LED irradiation on various clinical parameters. This treatment increased the tear volume and reduced corneal irregularity, thus improving dry eye. Histological analysis revealed that multi-wavelength LED irradiation protected against corneal epithelial damage and the associated reduction in epithelial thickness and would thus improve the corneal health of dry eye patients. Multi-wavelength LED irradiation significantly reduced the corneal levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-1ß, and TNF-α; the treatment was thus anti-inflammatory. Our results suggest that multi-wavelength LED irradiation may serve as a safe and effective treatment for dry eye, alleviating symptoms, reducing inflammation, and promoting corneal health.

Nurse-led care for people with early rheumatoid arthritis: Interview study with thematic analysis.

AIMS: To develop an understanding of what comprises nurse-led care in early rheumatoid arthritis from the perspective of rheumatology nurse specialists in England. DESIGN: Qualitative study. METHODS: Semi-structured telephone interviews with rheumatology nurse specialists in England were conducted in Summer 2020. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Reporting follows the appropriate elements of consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. RESULTS: Sixteen nurses were recruited and interviews lasted 30-60 min. Four themes with 14 subthemes were identified. A SPECIALIST SERVICE DELIVERED BY EXPERIENCED RHEUMATOLOGY NURSES: Specialist care is provided by experienced nurse specialists with a high degree of autonomy in the rheumatology multidisciplinary team context. ADDRESSING PATIENTS' COMPLEX CARE NEEDS: Care is evidence-based and aims to start treatment, keep in treatment, educate and support. Access to psychology expertise is needed. CARE WITH COMPASSION USING PERSON-CENTRED, HOLISTIC AND EMPATHETIC APPROACHES: Nurses create patient relationships and a positive therapeutic environment. Nurse-led telephone advice lines are essential for treatment adjustment, patient support and empowerment. CONTINUED EVALUATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE SERVICE: Consultations are reviewed, and patients are asked for feedback. The COVID-19 pandemic caused disruption, but changes streamlined procedures and improved documentation and communication. CONCLUSION: Nurse-led care in early rheumatoid arthritis is a specialist service delivered with compassion, addressing complex care needs and using person-centred approaches. This study identifies key aspects of care in early disease from the nurse perspective.

The effects of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) with nanotechnology-applied curcumin and 450nm blue led irradiation on multi-species biofilms in root canals.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) utilizing nanotechnology-applied curcumin activated by blue LED (450 nm) on the elimination of microorganisms arranged in multispecies biofilms inside the root canals of extracted human teeth. Forty single-rooted human teeth were used; these were randomized into four experimental groups, each comprising 10 teeth: control group, no treatment; photosensitizer (PS) group, nanotechnology-applied curcumin alone; light group, blue LED used separately; and aPDT group, nanotechnology-applied curcumin activated by blue LED. To carry out the tests, the interiors of the root canals were inoculated with species of Candida albicans (ATCC 90029), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (ATCC 43300), using a multispecies biofilm. After the incubation period, the canals were treated according to the experimental groups, with no treatment given in the control group. Studied inasmuch as the antimicrobial effectiveness of aPDT was concerned, it was observed that the greatest reduction in microbial counts using aPDTs was achieved against MRSA (mean reduction = 2.48 Log10 CFU/mL), followed by Escherichia coli (mean reduction = 1.72), and Enterococcus faecalis (mean reduction = 1.65); a reduction greater than 1.5 Log10 CFU/mL showed relevant effectiveness of aPDT against these microorganisms. Of note, aPDT has also shown considerable effectiveness against Candida albicans (mean reduction = 0.71), with a statistical difference in the reduction between the groups. aPDT was effective in reducing all microorganisms examined. The average reduction was greater than 1.5 Log10 in all microorganisms except for Candida albicans. HIGHLIGHTS: • aPDT was a viable treatment for root canals; • Nanotechnological curcumin aPDT was effective in reducing multispecies biofilm microorganisms; • aPDT technique showed efficacy under the worst microbiological conditions , such as mature multispecies biofilm; • Nanotechnological curcumin aPDT was able to reduce Gram positive, negative bacterial and yeasts in root canals.