Search Results (817)

Two-dimensional black phosphorus (2D BP) has emerged as one of the most promising two-dimensional semiconductors for next-generation micro and nanoelectronics beyond Moore’s Law. It is distinguished by its unique combination of a layer dependent direct bandgap, broadband photoresponse, and pronounced in-plane anisotropy, addressing key intrinsic limitations that have hindered the widespread application of graphene and conventional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs). This review provides a systematic and comprehensive overview of recent advances in the controllable fabrication of 2D BP and its applications in transistors and photodetectors. We first elucidate its crystal lattice structure and fundamental physical properties, then categorize and summarize synthesis strategies based on production scale ranging from small scale methods (e.g., mechanical exfoliation and solution based exfoliation) to large scale methods (e.g., Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and Pulsed Laser Deposition (PLD)), with a particular focus on recent advances in high-speed field-effect transistors and broadband photodetectors. In summary, the key to achieving large-scale controllable synthesis lies in addressing the challenges of high-temperature oxidation of black phosphorus and the uncontrollable diffusion of phosphorus sources. In the future, industrial applications are expected to be realized through CVD based regulation of phosphorus sources, low-temperature growth by PLD, and deep integration with silicon-based processes. Full article

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the influence of different final irrigation protocols and activation methods on the dentinal tubular penetration of calcium silicate-based sealers (CSSs). The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, and the protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF; DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/5HTVN). A PICOS-based research question was formulated, and a comprehensive literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and SciELO up to October 2025. After study selection, a qualitative synthesis of methodologies and outcomes was performed, and methodological quality was assessed using the QUIN tool. Twenty-one in vitro studies were included, all of which used single-rooted teeth or single roots. The available evidence suggests that final irrigation protocols may influence CSS penetration, although the magnitude and consistency of this effect varied substantially across studies. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 17% EDTA were the most frequently investigated irrigants and were generally associated with improved penetration, but no irrigation protocol or activation technique can currently be considered superior. Current research trends include the evaluation of chelating agents, continuous chelation protocols, and irrigant activation systems such as passive ultrasonic irrigation, sonic activation, laser activation, and XP-Endo Finisher. Future studies should standardize irrigation protocols, activation methods, sealer types, obturation techniques, microscopy-based assessment procedures, and penetration outcome measures, while also including larger samples and more anatomically complex root canal systems. Full article

Laser-induced acoustic communication is a highly adaptable cross-medium technique that combines the advantages of optical transmission through air and acoustic transmission underwater. However, poor signal stability at high repetition frequencies currently hinders its widespread application. To address this, this paper proposes an innovative scanning focal-point method to enhance stability. Traditional methods such as beam scanning, focus control, and distributed interaction are primarily aimed at enhancing sound pressure in a specific direction, achieving near-field/far-field focusing, or improving the signal-to-noise ratio through coherent synthesis of ultrasonic intensity. In contrast, the method proposed in this paper is intended to avoid the interference of droplets and vapor generated by single-point breakdown under high repetition frequencies, which would otherwise degrade the laser-acoustic conversion efficiency. It is therefore an active defense strategy specifically targeting the stability of laser-induced acoustic communication. First, optical simulation software was used to analyze the effects of surface ripples and bubbles on focal spot displacement and size. Next, a single-pulse experimental system was developed to measure the range and duration of surface depressions caused by optical breakdown. Finally, a scanning focal-point system was constructed for comparative experiments, with results recorded via hydrophones and high-speed cameras. The maximum laser-induced acoustic signal generated by the scanning focal-point method is 7.4 times that produced by single-point breakdown. The experimental results demonstrate that the scanning focal-point method can effectively avoid the influence of water surface disturbance and steam on the optoacoustic conversion efficiency and significantly improve the amplitude and stability of the laser-induced acoustic signal. Full article

Nickel ferrite (NiFe₂O₄) is one of the most studied inverse-spinel ferrites because it combines moderate saturation magnetization, comparatively high electrical resistivity, chemical stability, and broad synthesis flexibility. Yet the literature shows that the measured structure and magnetism of NiFe₂O₄ are not intrinsic constants; they evolve strongly with dimensionality, size, thickness, strain state, cation distribution, surface spin disorder, and synthesis pathway. This review develops a unified theoretical and literature-based interpretation of how dimensionality reshapes the structural and magnetic behavior of NiFe₂O₄ across bulk ceramics, nanoparticles, one-dimensional nanostructures, polycrystalline thin films, and ultrathin epitaxial films. The review is anchored in the two uploaded nickel ferrite attachments and expanded using internet-sourced journal literature on spinel inversion, surface effects, mechanochemical synthesis, sputtered and pulsed laser deposited thin films, and epitaxial ultrathin-film anomalies. The central novelty of this article is the formulation of a dimensionality-dependent framework in which the observed magnetic response is governed by a competition among three coupled factors: (i) the cation-distribution function, which controls the A–B superexchange balance and therefore the net ferrimagnetic moment; (ii) the microstructural coherence function, which measures how crystallinity, strain, defects, and anti-phase boundaries preserve or degrade exchange continuity; and (iii) the surface/interface spin-order parameter, which quantifies the loss or reconfiguration of magnetic order at free surfaces and buried interfaces. Within this framework, bulk NiFe₂O₄ behaves as a near-equilibrium inverse spinel with relatively stable magnetization, whereas nanoscale NiFe₂O₄ experiences strong spin canting and finite-size suppression due to the growing fraction of disordered surface spins. Thin films introduce a distinct regime in which strain, texture, anti-phase boundaries, substrate mismatch, and growth kinetics determine both anisotropy and magnetization. In ultrathin epitaxial films, off-equilibrium cation redistribution and interface-controlled electronic reconstruction may even generate magnetization values far above bulk expectations. The review also compares major synthesis routes—solid-state reaction, sol–gel, co-precipitation, hydrothermal growth, reactive milling, combustion, pulsed laser deposition, and radio-frequency sputtering—and explains why each route biases the final dimensionality-dependent properties differently. A set of word-style equations is provided to formalize spinel inversion, finite-size suppression, anisotropy scaling, coercivity trends, and superparamagnetic crossover. Beyond summarizing the field, the review proposes a regime map linking dimensionality to characteristic structural defects and magnetic signatures, and it identifies unresolved questions concerning the true origin of enhanced magnetization in ultrathin NiFe₂O₄, the interplay between anti-phase boundaries and strain, and the distinction between intrinsic inversion changes and extrinsic substrate artifacts. The resulting article offers a submission-ready, originality-focused review that positions dimensionality as the master variable governing structure–magnetism correlations in nickel ferrite. Full article

This study presents a novel in situ reinforcement strategy for 17-4PH stainless steel by using Nb and Cr₃C₂ powders as precursors, addressing the challenge of poor particle dispersion and interfacial bonding in conventional ex situ ceramic additions. The coatings were systematically compared with 17-4PH coatings without the addition of a reinforcing phase. The results show that the coating without Nb addition is dominated by α-Fe martensite, exhibiting a coarse columnar/dendritic microstructure. After adding Nb and Cr₃C₂, the coating successfully forms in situ face-centered cubic NbC, with a significantly refined and uniformly distributed microstructure. The 10 wt.% Nb+Cr₃C₂ coating exhibits a refined microstructure with an average grain size reduced from 1.12 μm to 0.85 μm and a microhardness of 495.5 HV, representing an 86% increase over the substrate and a 34% improvement compared to the unreinforced coating. Friction–wear tests demonstrate that the composite coating reduces wear track width and depth by approximately 50% and 45%, respectively, compared to the substrate, with the wear mechanism transitioning from severe adhesive and fatigue wear to mild abrasive wear and localized micro-delamination. In situ synthesized NbC effectively optimizes the coating microstructure, enhances interfacial bonding, and markedly improves the hardness and wear resistance of 17-4PH coatings, providing theoretical and technical support for their engineering application under severe service conditions. Full article

Background: Despite the rise of endoscopic approaches, the direct brow lift remains one of the most effective procedures for correcting brow ptosis for both functional and cosmetic indications. It continues to offer superior control when correcting brow shape, height, and asymmetry. However, visible scarring remains a concern. This systematic review was conducted to synthesize recent evidence on strategies that minimize visible scarring in direct brow lift surgery. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed to retrieve English-language publications from the past decade, discussing scar-minimization strategies in direct brow lift. A total of 124 records were identified through database searches in Ovid MEDLINE and Embase. Records were screened manually according to predetermined criteria, and those not in English, not addressing scarring, or not focused on direct brow lift were excluded. After this process, ten publications were included in the final qualitative synthesis. Results: The qualitative synthesis of all included publications (together comprising data on approximately 900 patients) revealed several strategies for scar minimization. (1) Incision beveling: A shallow cranially directed bevel between 20° and 45° preserves brow hair follicles and allows hair regrowth through the scar, providing natural camouflage. (2) Undermining: Gentle subcutaneous undermining in a limited 1–2 cm field, while preserving subcutaneous fat, allows tension-free advancement and maintains brow volume. (3) Periosteal suspension: Anchoring the mobilized brow flap to the frontal periosteum redistributes tension away from the dermal closure, maintaining elevation and improving scar quality. (4) Layered closure: Two- or three-layered wound closure with deep dermal anchoring and fine everting skin sutures minimizes dermal traction and scar widening. (5) Adjunctive measures: Evidence for topical silicone gel was inconclusive, whereas postoperative laser therapy and perioperative neuromodulator use demonstrated improved scar appearance. Across studies, outcomes were consistent, with high patient satisfaction, inconspicuous scars in over 85% of cases, and low complication or revision rates. Conclusions: Direct brow lift has historically been criticized for conspicuous scarring, contributing to the popularity of endoscopic techniques. Nevertheless, the traditional direct brow lift remains a fundamental skill in the oculofacial plastic surgeon’s armamentarium, offering unmatched accuracy in brow repositioning, reliability, and symmetry. Contemporary evidence demonstrates refinements that can markedly minimize scar visibility. This systematic review and qualitative synthesis allow us to continue to refine and improve our techniques to minimize scarring in direct brow lift to the benefit of our patients. Full article

Background: Brain metastases are the most common intracranial tumors in adults and are traditionally considered well-demarcated lesions amenable to complete surgical resection. Nonetheless, increasing histopathological evidence demonstrates that metastatic cells may infiltrate beyond the contrast-enhancing margin into surrounding brain parenchyma, challenging the reliability of conventional imaging for defining true tumor boundaries. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) using Sodium Fluorescein (SF) has emerged as a novel intraoperative imaging modality capable of providing real-time, high-resolution optical biopsies, potentially improving margin assessment during metastasis surgery. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed according to PRISMA guidelines across PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar up to 3 March 2026. Studies evaluating intraoperative CLE with SF in adult patients with brain metastases were included. Data regarding study design, patient population, CLE system, imaging characteristics, and diagnostic performance were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Results: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis, comprising over 650 patients; however, most studies included heterogeneous intracranial tumor populations, with only a subset specifically involving brain metastases. CLE enabled real-time visualization of tumor microarchitecture and demonstrated high sensitivity for tumor detection, frequently exceeding 90% in prospective studies. Specificity varied across studies, reflecting challenges in distinguishing tumor infiltration from reactive tissue at the tumor–brain interface. The MetInfilt trial highlighted that infiltrative growth patterns are common in brain metastases and can be visualized intraoperatively using CLE. Additional studies demonstrated that fluorescein-based CLE allows differentiation of tumor zones and may facilitate targeted margin assessment; however, evidence demonstrating improvement in clinically meaningful outcomes such as extent of resection, local recurrence, progression-free survival, or overall survival remains limited. Conclusions: Confocal laser endomicroscopy using SF represents a promising intraoperative adjunct for assessing tumor margins in brain metastasis surgery. By enabling real-time microscopic visualization of the metastasis–brain interface, CLE may support a more biologically informed surgical strategy. Full article

Background: Energy-based techniques for septal cartilage reshaping, including laser-mediated cartilage reshaping (LCR) and electromechanical reshaping (EMR), have been investigated for more than three decades as minimally invasive alternatives to conventional septoplasty. Despite encouraging preclinical findings, their clinical translation remains limited. Their relevance to personalized medicine lies in the possibility of tailoring septal correction to individual anatomy, cartilage-dominant deformity patterns, and patient-specific functional needs. Objective: To systematically review the experimental and clinical evidence on LCR and EMR for nasal septal cartilage reshaping and to evaluate their potential role within a personalized, function-oriented treatment framework. Methods: A PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed for English-language studies published up to June 2025. Original experimental or clinical studies investigating LCR or EMR applied to human or animal septal cartilage were included. Because of heterogeneity in models, dosimetry, and outcome reporting, a qualitative synthesis was undertaken. A design-specific critical appraisal was also performed. Results: Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria (LCR: n = 9; EMR: n = 9). LCR consistently induced shape change within a narrow thermo-mechanical relaxation range (55–75 °C), but showed dose-dependent risks of chondrocyte injury and matrix degeneration, with limited applicability to complex osseocartilaginous deviations. Only three human LCR studies were identified, all short-term and limited to mild cartilaginous deformities. EMR produced reproducible, charge-dependent reshaping at near-physiological temperatures, but human studies were lacking. Neither technique addressed bony deviations, and none assessed functional benefit using computational fluid dynamics. Conclusions: Both techniques remain predominantly preclinical and may currently serve only as adjunctive options for selected anterior, cartilage-dominant deformities. Future translation will require validated dosimetry, long-term human data, and patient-specific functional assessment. Full article

Increasing environmental pollution has intensified the focus on sustainability, encouraging the development of eco-friendly materials. This study reports the synthesis of binary (ZnO–TiO₂) and ternary (SnO₂–ZnO–TiO₂) compounds and their loading with Au/Ag/Pt/P noble metals (NMs) to enhance photodegradation efficiency under visible light compared to pristine TiO₂. The compounds were synthesized in a single step via laser pyrolysis, and then noble metal deposition through chemical impregnation and reduction was performed. Structural and morphological analyses revealed TiO₂-based nanoparticles with varied morphologies decorated with noble metal nanoparticles with sizes between 2 and 6 nm (for Pt and Pd). Photocatalytic tests demonstrated a significant improvement in Methyl Orange (MO) degradation under visible light, especially for Ag-loaded samples. The degradation rate increased from 1.03 × 10⁻³ min⁻¹ (TZ) to 22.65 × 10⁻³ min⁻¹ (TZS_Ag), while it was 0.09 × 10⁻³ min⁻¹ for the commercial P25 sample. Biocompatibility assays indicated lower cytotoxicity than Degussa P25, with Au- and Pd-loaded samples showing improved compatibility with HaCaT and HEK293 cells. Overall, these findings demonstrate that the developed TiO₂-based nanocomposites, designed through a novel and sustainable strategy combining binary/ternary heterostructures with noble metal loading, are promising candidates for efficient visible light-driven photocatalytic environmental decontamination with enhanced biological compatibility. Full article

Titanium alloys exhibit exceptional properties that enable their widespread application. Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies offer significant advantages for titanium alloy components, including rapid prototyping, high forming accuracy, and enhanced performance. Consequently, substantial research and industrial applications have emerged in the field of titanium alloy AM. Nevertheless, a systematic comparison and synthesis of related studies remains lacking. This paper reviews four distinct categories of titanium alloy AM processes classified by energy source (laser, electron beam, electric arc, and compressed air-assisted). Each category is analyzed in detail, with comparative assessments of microstructures, performance, and applications. Secondly, the paper comprehensively discusses current and potential applications of titanium alloy AM across aerospace, medical, and industrial sectors while identifying critical research gaps for future development. Finally, the development of novel titanium alloys for AM, titanium alloy AM assisted by acoustic or magnetic fields, and 4D printing of functional titanium alloys are discussed. Full article

Medical lasers are a heterogeneous class of interventional and therapeutic devices. They are differentiated based on their active gain medium, which includes solid-state, gaseous, dye, and semiconductor (diode) formulations. The present article undertakes a systematic evaluation and synthesis of the findings from a reproducible dataset. The present study yields novel scientific results, including a four-level classification of medical lasers that considers the chemical formula for each type of gain medium. In addition, a multisided systemic analysis of the engineering application of medical lasers in clinical practice is conducted, including an analysis of the main engineering challenges as a structured framework. Furthermore, a clustering of engineering applications for medical lasers in 2025 is performed, and a quantitative landscape of medical lasers by variables is presented. The following variables are analyzed: wavelength (nm), power (W)/irradiance (W/cm²), fluence (J/cm²), and exposure time/pulse duration. The objective is to create a year-by-year “trend analysis” for future engineering opportunities (2026–2030). The structure of the article is logical and roughly follows the IMRAD structure, and a thread of argumentation is demonstrated. Full article

The integration of exosomes into professional cosmetics marks a significant paradigm shift from traditional passive formulations to advanced regenerative esthetics. Rather than being defined solely by their nanometric dimensions or classical association with endosomal biogenesis, these vesicles function as highly targeted intercellular messengers capable of delivering complex bioactive payloads to modulate tissue repair and collagen synthesis. While robust preclinical and clinical trials validate their remarkable potential in skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, and hyperpigmentation management, significant translational barriers remain. A critical analysis of the current literature reveals that successful clinical outcomes frequently rely on physical penetration enhancers, such as microneedling or fractional lasers, making it challenging to isolate the autonomous efficacy of topical vesicles from the trauma-induced regenerative response. Furthermore, commercial viability is dictated by stringent regulatory frameworks. In the European Union, Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 strictly prohibits human-derived biologicals, while the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) aggressively monitors the unsubstantiated marketing of cellular therapies. To navigate these biosafety and legal constraints, the aesthetic industry is increasingly pivoting toward non-human and legally compliant alternatives. Consequently, Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicles (PDEVs), microbiome-derived exosomes (such as those obtained from bacterial fermentation), and bioengineered synthetic analogues have become the focal point of market innovation. A practical evaluation of the MCCM Medical Cosmetics portfolio illustrates this strategic shift, demonstrating the clinical versatility of botanical sources. To secure the long-term credibility of exosome technology, the industry must overcome current manufacturing heterogeneity by aligning with international standardization frameworks, such as the MISEV2023 guidelines, thereby ensuring reliable delivery systems, batch-to-batch consistency, and uncompromised consumer safety. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biological mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and translational challenges associated with exosome-based cosmetics. Full article

Non-stoichiometric copper sulfide (Cu_2-xS) nanomaterials are promising antibacterial agents, but the role of morphology in regulating their bactericidal performance remains poorly understood. Herein, we rationally design two types of Cu_2-xS nanostructures, namely nanoplates (NPs) and superparticles (SPs). Both materials were prepared via a ligand-directed synthesis method with the comparable sizes, surface ligands, and crystal phase. The antibacterial behaviors of Cu_2-xS NPs and Cu_2-xS SPs against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were investigated under dark and 808 nm near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. The results showed that under NIR light irradiation, Cu_2-xS SPs exhibit a markedly higher bactericidal efficiency against both E. coli and S. aureus than Cu_2-xS NPs, leading to almost complete eradication of bacterial colonies. Notably, S. aureus shows more sensitive than E. coli, and significant growth inhibition is observed even in the absence of laser irradiation. Mechanistic investigations reveal that hierarchical assembly of primary nanoparticles in SPs can promote multiple internal light scatterings, thereby significantly enhancing light harvesting efficiency and further improving the photothermal conversion efficiency. In addition, the SPs exhibited higher peroxidase-like activity, resulting in enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and aggravated oxidative damage, and the accelerated Cu²⁺ release kinetics strengthens ionic toxicity. Full article

Laser therapy is commonly associated with transient skin reactions such as erythema and edema, creating a need for effective post-procedural skincare strategies. In this study, we developed and characterized a novel bio-mask that integrates a hydrogel matrix with a lipid nanodispersion system designed to simultaneously deliver hydrophilic and hydrophobic active compounds. The key innovation of this formulation lies in the combination of a highly hydrophilic hydrogel structure with lipid nanoparticles embedded within a polymeric network, enabling enhanced bioavailability of active ingredients. Preliminary observations from instrumental measurements in a small group of healthy volunteers suggest that a single 60 min application resulted in notable improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, along with a reduction in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema, and skin sensitivity. Furthermore, both the complete formulation and its individual components exhibited inhibitory activity against collagen and elastin glycation, while promoting type I procollagen synthesis. Importantly, this study provides new evidence for the synergistic interaction between hydrogel matrices and lipid nanodispersion systems in modulating skin barrier function and biochemical aging markers. The formulation, composed entirely of ingredients of natural origin, proved to be an effective carrier for active compounds and showed measurable benefits for skin hydration and barrier-related parameters. Full article

The increasing demand for better dental aesthetics has driven the development of tooth-whitening techniques that are effective while reducing invasiveness. Hydrogen peroxide (HP) and carbamide peroxide (CP) continue to be the most common active ingredients in bleaching products. Various types of light and laser activation have been introduced to speed up the bleaching process and decrease clinical application time. However, published results regarding their effectiveness and biological safety are inconsistent and sometimes contradictory. Aim: The objective of this study was to identify irradiation conditions that optimise the whitening performance of peroxide-based bleaching agents while ensuring safety for dental hard tissues and ocular structures. This objective was achieved through a systematic synthesis and meta-analyses of both experimental and clinical evidence on bleaching techniques, light or laser activation, and related treatment outcomes. Additionally, the study aimed to provide an integrated overview of currently used irradiation technologies, bleaching agents, treatment protocols, and relevant safety considerations. Methods: A multi-stage analytical approach was employed. Evidence was collected from systematic reviews, randomised and non-randomised clinical trials, and laboratory-based in vitro investigations. The studies assessed differences in bleaching agents (HP and CP), their concentrations, and application protocols, as well as various activation systems, including halogen lamps, conventional LEDs, violet LEDs, metal–halide lamps, and laser wavelengths such as visible blue (~440 nm), red or near-infrared (~1.7 µm), and other spectral ranges. Extracted outcome measures included tooth colour improvement (ΔSGU, ΔE), incidence of tooth sensitivity, changes in enamel surface morphology, temperature increases in the pulp chamber, and the bond strength of restorative or orthodontic materials. When methodological compatibility permitted, quantitative synthesis and meta-analysis were conducted to estimate the effects of activation modalities and irradiation parameters. Results: Analysis of data from 28 systematic reviews and numerous clinical and laboratory studies showed that the degree of colour improvement did not consistently rely on peroxide concentration or on whether bleaching was performed in-office or through home-based protocols. In most studies, adding light activation did not produce a clearly superior whitening effect compared to chemically driven bleaching alone. However, certain laser-assisted methods—especially those using blue diode lasers around 440 nm or near-infrared diode lasers near 1.7 µm—were linked with faster whitening responses and, in several in vitro experiments, fewer enamel surface irregularities. Increases in pulp temperature remained below the generally accepted safety threshold of 5.5 °C in the reported experimental conditions. While laser activation reduced treatment time, some studies observed a temporary decrease in the bond strength of orthodontic brackets following bleaching. Photobiomodulation techniques seem promising for reducing post-treatment sensitivity, although more robust clinical evidence is still needed. Conclusions: Targeted activation with diode lasers, especially within the blue and near-infrared spectral ranges, may speed up the whitening process and potentially minimise structural changes to enamel when irradiation parameters are carefully managed. Despite these positive findings, current clinical evidence remains limited. Well-designed randomised controlled trials with standardised treatment protocols are essential to determine the best wavelengths, energy delivery settings, and safety limits for laser-assisted dental bleaching. Full article