Search Results (18)

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive technology widely used in aesthetic dermatology for skin tightening and facial rejuvenation. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a modified HIFU device, More Young, compared to the standard 7D HIFU system through a randomized, single-blinded clinical trial. The More Young device features enhanced focal depth precision and energy delivery algorithms, including nine pre-programmed stabilization checkpoints to minimize treatment risks. A total of 100 participants with facial wrinkles and skin laxity were randomly assigned to receive either More Young or 7D HIFU treatment. Skin improvements were assessed at baseline and one to six months post-treatment using the VISIA^® Skin Analysis System (7th Generation), focusing on eight key parameters. Patient satisfaction was evaluated through the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests, with effect sizes measured via Cohen’s d. Both groups showed significant post-treatment improvements; however, the More Young group demonstrated superior outcomes in wrinkle reduction, skin tightening, and texture enhancement, along with higher satisfaction and fewer adverse effects. No significant differences were observed in five of the eight skin parameters. Limitations include the absence of a placebo group, limited sample diversity, and short follow-up duration. Further studies are needed to validate long-term outcomes and assess performance across varied demographics and skin types. Full article

As a bridge for human–machine interaction, the performance improvement of sensors relies on the in-depth understanding of ion transport mechanisms. This study focuses on the surface effect of resistive gel sensors and designs a polyacrylic acid/ferric ion hydrogel (PAA/Fe³⁺) gas flow sensor. Prepared by one-pot polymerization, PAA/Fe³⁺ forms a three-dimensional network through the entanglement of crosslinked and uncrosslinked PAA chains, where the coordination between Fe³⁺ and carboxyl groups endows the material with excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength of 80 kPa and elongation at break of 1100%). Experiments show that when a gas flow acts on the hydrogel surface, changes in surface humidity alter the density of the network structure, thereby regulating ion migration rates: the network loosens to promote ion transport during water absorption, while it tightens to hinder transport during water loss. This mechanism enables the sensor to exhibit significant resistance responses (ΔR/R₀ up to 0.55) to gentle breezes (0–13 m/s), with a response time of approximately 166 ms and a sensitivity 40 times higher than that of bulk deformation. The surface ion transport model proposed in this study provides a new strategy for ultrasensitive gas flow sensing, showing potential application values in intelligent robotics, electronic skin, and other fields. Full article

Cellulite is a widespread aesthetical dermatological condition affecting a significant proportion of postpubertal women, characterized by dimpled skin, primarily on the thighs, buttocks, and hips, which has an important psychological impact. Cellulite, also called lipodystrophy or oedematosclerotic panniculitis, causes an aesthetic change in the skin that affects the epidermis, dermis, hypodermis and subcutaneous fat in different ways. The aim of the present prospective study research was to evaluate the efficacy of electromagnetic field and negative pressure in the treatment of cellulite. Methods: A total of 35 women with an average age of 40, ranging from 18 to 50 (mean 32.2 ± 7.48), with a body mass index between 18.5 and 26.9 (mean 22 ± 3.01), were enrolled in this study. The degree of cellulite of the patients was assessed clinically using the Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS) and Nürnberger–Müller classification. All patients received one session per week for a total 12 treatment sessions with Bi-one^® LifeTouchTherapy medical device (Expo Italia Srl—Florence—Italy), which generates a combination of vacuum and electromagnetic fields (V-EMF). Total treatment time was approximately 20–30 min per patient. The GAIS score, Cellulite Severity Scale (CSS) and Nürnberger–Müller classification for cellulite was evaluated 1 month after the 12 treatments with LifeTouchTherapy. Results: A statistical difference was recorded in cellulite improvement by visual analog scale (VAS) and global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS). Conclusions: The results of the present prospective clinical study show the efficacy and safety of Bi-one^® LifeTouchTherapy in the treatment of cellulite. Electromagnetic fields combined with negative pressure therapy promote tissue regeneration and reduce fibrosis, which results in visible cosmetic improvements of cellulite. Full article

Pressures applied to horses via nosebands are of growing concern. The current study applied noseband pressure to the head of a dead horse. Pressure sensors were placed on the left nasal bone to record pressures as the noseband was progressively tightened. Tightness increased as predicated by holes in the strap of the noseband (as supplied) through eight steps from two fingers’ space, assessed using the standard International Society for Equitation Science Taper Gauge through to zero space. Sensors were also placed at the midline frontal plane and intra-orally at the level of the second premolar tooth. A strain gauge integrated into the noseband recorded tensions within the noseband at each tightness level, and a digital taper gauge under the noseband recorded forces on the face. Pressures at the left nasal bone rose to 403 kPa, while those at the frontal nasal plane reached 185 kPa. Pressures rose rapidly once the noseband was tightened at the equivalent of 1.4 fingers’ space under the noseband. These findings may help to explain cases of bone and skin damage at the noseband location and indicate the need to ensure that nosebands can accommodate more than the equivalent of 1.4 fingers beneath them in the nasal midline. Given that pressures are expected to rise from those reported here when horses wear bits, locomote, and when the reins are under tension, we conclude that the traditional provision of two fingers’ space should be retained. Full article

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive technology widely used for facial and body rejuvenation, skin tightening, and fat reduction. It stimulates collagen production and induces apoptosis in fat cells, offering an effective alternative to surgical procedures with minimal downtime and reduced recovery periods. As a result, HIFU has become an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking non-surgical esthetic enhancements. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and SpringerLink to assess HIFU-related complications. Twenty-two studies published between 2010 and 2025 were identified, all involving female participants. The findings confirm that HIFU is generally safe and effective, with most complications being mild and transient, such as temporary erythema, swelling, and discomfort. These side effects typically resolve within a few hours to days without requiring medical intervention. However, rare but significant complications like fat atrophy, nerve irritation, and hyperpigmentation have been linked to improper device settings, inadequate practitioner expertise, and insufficient patient assessment. Ensuring proper training, adherence to standardized treatment protocols, and individualized patient evaluations can significantly minimize these risks and optimize patient outcomes. Long-term follow-up studies and further research on standardized safety protocols, optimal energy settings, and patient selection criteria are essential for enhancing the effectiveness, predictability, and safety of HIFU in esthetic medicine. Full article

Background: Ectropion is a common eyelid problem and is defined as eversion of the eyelid margin and typically involves the lower eyelid. The main acquired causes of ectropion include involutional, cicatricial, paralytic, and mechanical. A severe manifestation of ectropion is tarsal ectropion, where much of the tarsal conjunctiva is visible, often with keratinization of the conjunctiva. causes. Common techniques for ectropion repair include horizontal tightening of the lid with lateral tarsal strip or Bick procedure, lateral tarsorraphy, inverting sutures and the sub-orbicularis oculi fat lift. However, all surgical techniques are prone to ectropion recurrence. We review the techniques for ectropion repair and describe a novel adjunctive technique called the superotemporal skin transposition (STS), which is well suited for patients with recurrent or tarsal ectropion. Methods: The STS is combined with a lateral tarsal strip or Bick procedure. For the STS, all of the anterior lamellae of the lateral lower lid is retained. The posterior lamellae is sutured to the lateral orbital tubercle. A triangular bed of skin is excised superotemporally, and the lower lid anterior lamellae is transposed and secured with multiple sutures. The STS can be combined with inverting sutures, or skin graft for cicatricial cases. Results: We used the STS with Bick procedure and optional inverting sutures on 23 patients, 4 of whom required bilateral ectropion repair. At 1–6 month followup all patients achieved satisfactory outcomes with a well-positioned eyelid and improved symptoms. The STS had more lateral cutaneous scarring than with a Bick procedure alone, but patients did not find this objectionable. No reoperations were required. Conclusion: The STS is a straightforward and useful adjunct for patients with severe, recurrent or tarsal ectropion. Further studies are needed to determine the long-term efficacy of this technique. Full article

Cosmetically active compounds (CACs), both of lipophilic and hydrophilic origin, have difficulty reaching the deeper layers of the skin, and this shortcoming significantly reduces their efficacy. One such CAC that occurs naturally in the human body and displays many beneficial properties (via reducing fine lines and wrinkles, tightening skin, improving its elasticity, etc.) is the glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine tripeptide complex of copper (GHK–Cu). GHK–Cu is a fairly hydrophilic compound with limited permeation through the lipophilic stratum corneum. On the other hand, liposomes capable of encapsulating GHK–Cu may improve its permeation potential. The present review discusses various issues related to obtaining insight into the permeation of CACs through the skin. Methods for studying the transport of CACs encapsulated by liposomes and free GHK–Cu across the skin barrier are summarized. An analysis of the literature data reveals that the transport of liposomes containing GHK–Cu received little attention. This research gap gives an impetus to the methodological developments for assessing the effect of liposomes on GHK–Cu transportation and trafficking. Full article

After failed conservative therapy or in the absence of any intervention, a rupture of the digital subcutaneous extensor tendon at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint, known as mallet finger, may lead to a chronic extension deficit due to excessive scarring and tendon elongation. Various surgical techniques to restore the extension of the distal phalanx have been proposed, but an optimal approach has not yet been established. To tighten the extensor tendon, a purse-string suture can be applied. Although it has shown efficacy, it can result in significant bulging and scar formation. Using the “abbreviato” technique, the elongated part of the extensor tendon is excised, and the tendon is re-sutured. Also, tenodesis has been described, particularly in pediatric cases. In this retrospective follow-up study, we aimed to investigate if the step-plasty procedure previously described by Baumeister provides comparable, if not superior, functional and aesthetic outcomes compared to existing techniques for patients with chronic mallet finger. In this retrospective study, a consecutive series of 68 patients with chronic mallet fingers was enrolled. Patients were treated surgically using step-plasty of the respective extensor tendon. After skin incision and tenolysis, the elongated extensor tendon was incised in a Z-like fashion and stepwise resected in the transverse portion of the Z. The functional and aesthetic effects of this step-plasty technique were compared with results of 44 patients previously treated using purse-string sutures of the extensor tendon and evaluated using Crawford’s and Levante’s criteria. In all patients undergoing the step-plasty procedure, the extension deficit was significantly reduced from an average of 42 degrees preoperatively to 11 degrees postoperatively. In contrast, the control group treated by purse-string sutures showed a slightly higher postoperative extension deficit of 15 degrees. According to Levante’s criteria, the results of our step-plasty procedure were significantly better than those achieved with purse-string sutures. Our study demonstrated that the treatment of older or chronic subcutaneous extensor tendon ruptures using the step-plasty technique led to a significant reduction in extension deficits. According to Levante’s criteria, the postoperative outcome was significantly better in comparison to the purse-string suture technique. Additionally, no skin resection was required to improve the extension capability of the distal finger joint, compared to established surgical procedures. Full article

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is widely used in various medical and surgical specialties for its regenerative properties, including aesthetics (facial rejuvenation, hair restoration, and skin tightening) and orthopedics (treatment of tendinitis and osteoarthritis). However, the inconsistent literature on PRP’s efficacy and safety leads to critical knowledge gaps. This systematic review evaluates quality control measures in PRP preparation and application and explores the regulatory environment governing its clinical use. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science, for studies published from January 2020 to April 2024. The review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving human participants undergoing PRP treatment for aesthetic or regenerative purposes. Key parameters such as the PRP preparation methods, platelet concentration, and quality control measures were analyzed. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024557669). Results: Out of 75 RCTs involving 5726 patients, the review identified significant variability in PRP preparation methods and application techniques, including differences in centrifugation protocols and platelet concentration levels. A new evidence-based scoring system, the William–Eqram Scoring System for PRP Quality Reporting (WESS-PQR), was proposed to address these inconsistencies. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.79) between proper temperature control during preparation and PRP efficacy. Initial platelet count assessment showed a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.57) with efficacy. Conclusions: Standardized PRP preparation protocols and robust regulatory frameworks are urgently needed to ensure the safety and efficacy of PRP treatments. The proposed WESS-PQR scoring system can serve as a valuable tool for clinicians and researchers, promoting consistency and reliability in PRP applications. Full article

Background: Monopolar radiofrequency (RF) has emerged as a promising modality for tightening the skin of aged faces. Although many studies have assessed the efficacy of monopolar RF via the clinical evaluation of photographs, few have examined the long-term effectiveness and safety of this therapy using various skin testing devices. Methods: Twenty women with aged faces participated in this study. After a single monopolar RF treatment, three blinded dermatologists who were not involved in the treatment evaluated its clinical efficacy and safety after 4, 12, and 24 weeks. Skin firmness, fine wrinkles, skin pores, and skin tone were also measured using an indentometer (Courage+Khazaka Electronic GmbH, Köln, Germany) and a facial aging measurement device (Mark-Vu; PSI Plus, Suwon-si, Republic of Korea). Results: Skin laxity in the jowls and nasolabial folds showed significant improvement 12 weeks after the single monopolar RF treatment when evaluated by dermatologists, and this improvement lasted 24 weeks (p < 0.05). Moreover, the participants reported improvement at 4 weeks compared to baseline which lasted 24 weeks (p < 0.05). Skin firmness measured in the cheek increased 4 weeks after treatment and continued to improve during 24 weeks of follow-up (p < 0.01). Although there was a gradual increase in improvement in skin pores, fine wrinkles, and skin tones, there were no statistical differences compared to the baseline. No patients experienced pain during the treatment, and no burns, skin breakdown, or scarring occurred after treatment. Conclusions: A single monopolar RF treatment is effective for females with aged face. A significant improvement in the jowls and nasolabial folds and facial skin firmness was observed between the 4- and 24-week follow-ups without adverse effects. Full article

Background: After significant weight loss, the abdominal skin can become permanently stretched, resulting in stretch marks, laxity, and thinning of the dermis. For many patients, surgical methods such as abdominoplasty are too risky due to the potential for complications, the lengthy recovery period, and the high cost. Objective: The purpose of this pilot study was to use microfocused ultrasound, calcium hydroxyapatite, and Incobotulinum toxin A to improve the appearance of patients who were suffering from abdominal skin laxity after heavy weight loss. The combination of these treatments can provide comprehensive results with minimal downtime and lower risk compared to traditional surgical procedures. Methods: Our team treated four female Chinese patients with microfocused ultrasound, diluted calcium hydroxylapatite, and Incobotulinum toxin A with different combinations, respectively. The first and second cases were only treated with 810 shots of microfocused ultrasound. The third case received 850 shots of microfocused ultrasound plus 5 mL of diluted calcium hydroxylapatite and 50 units of Incobotulinum toxin A on the left abdominal skin, and the fourth case was treated with 900 shots of microfocused ultrasound plus 5 mL of diluted calcium hydroxylapatite and 10 units of Incobotulinum toxin A on the left abdominal skin. All four patients received a single treatment session. Clinical photographs were taken before each treatment, and two individual blinded investigators were asked to assess photographs taken after 4 weeks and compare them with the pretreatment photos. Results: All four cases showed an overall clinical improvement, with the third and fourth cases demonstrating more significant skin tightening based on photographic analysis. The data indicate that the inclusion of calcium hydroxylapatite and Incobotulinum toxin A in microfocused ultrasound treatment yields superior results for abdominal rejuvenation. Conclusions: Abdominal skin laxity can be treated with a triple therapy combining microfocused ultrasound, diluted calcium hydroxylapatite, and Incobotulinum toxin A. Full article

Recently, there has been an increase in the number of reports on textile-based dry electrodes that can detect biopotentials without the need for electrolytic gels. However, these textile electrodes have a higher electrode skin interface impedance due to the improper contact between the skin and the electrode, diminishing the reliability and repeatability of the sensor. To facilitate improved skin–electrode contact, the effects of load and holding contact pressure were monitored for an embroidered textile electrode composed of multifilament hybrid thread for its application as a surface electromyography (sEMG) sensor. The effect of the textile’s inter-electrode distance and double layering of embroidery that increases the density of the conductive threads were studied. Electrodes embroidered onto an elastic strap were wrapped around the forearm with a hook and loop fastener and tested for their performance. Time domain features such as the Root Mean Square (RMS), Average Rectified Value (ARV), and Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) were quantitatively monitored in relation to the contact pressure and load. Experiments were performed in triplicates, and the sEMG signal characteristics were observed for various loads (0, 2, 4, and 6 kg) and holding contact pressures (5, 10, and 20 mmHg). sEMG signals recorded with textile electrodes were comparable in amplitude to those recorded using typical Ag/AgCl electrodes (28.45 dB recorded), while the signal-to-noise ratios were, 11.77, 19.60, 19.91, and 20.93 dB for the different loads, and 21.33, 23.34, and 17.45 dB for different holding pressures. The signal quality increased as the elastic strap was tightened further, but a pressure higher than 20 mmHg is not recommended because of the discomfort experienced by the subjects during data collection. Full article

Objective: to systematically review the efficacy of microfocused ultrasound (MFU) for facial skin tightening. Methods: A systematic search was performed (Pubmed, Embase) to assess the efficacy of single MFU treatments for facial skin tightening. Eligible studies included randomised controlled trials, controlled trials, cohort studies and case series (n ≥ 10). Objective and subjective outcomes were assessed. Results: A total of 693 studies were identified of which 16 studies were eligible. All the studies involved female patients. MFU is capable of tightening the skin, as observed in studies measuring the results of brow lifts (0.47–1.7 mm) and submental lifts (measured as a 26–45 mm² reduction in the submental area on lateral photographs). Data from the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) were pooled, and the day 90 pooled subjective investigator reported scores (IGAIS) (n = 337) showed that 92% of the patients demonstrated an improvement in skin tightening and/or in wrinkle reduction which continued up to one year. Longer-term follow-up data are not available. The patient-reported pooled scores (SGAIS) (n = 81) showed that the skin improvements were mild and continued to increase from 42% (90 days) to 53% (360 days) post-treatment. The MFU treatment was moderately painful and caused transient erythema with or without oedema. Other adverse effects were rare (2%), including dysesthesia (numbness or hypersensitivity), bruising and stinging, mandibular burns, striations and contact dermatitis. Various device settings, treatment protocols and energies were applied. Excessive skin laxity and a BMI > 30 were posed as relative contraindications for MFU treatment because positive results declined with an increase in laxity and BMI. Conclusions: MFU treatment is effective in tightening female patients’ mildly to moderately lax facial skin. Future studies should focus on objective treatment outcomes, optimising treatment regimens and male patients. Full article

Nowadays, vehicle assistance systems may assess the risks of the traffic situation with the help of advanced sensor technology and optimized algorithms. However, the passengers’ feelings of risk in the vehicle have been mostly neglected. According to the Component Process Model of emotions, during the feeling of risk, novelty is one of the relevant event appraisals leading to particular physiological and facial responses. In order to identify whether or not indicators for novelty appraisal may be used for detecting the feeling of risk of vehicle occupants, we investigated physiological responses and facial expressions of individuals experiencing the feeling of risk with different levels of novelty. This secondary analysis of an earlier simulator study revealed that pupil diameter amplitude, skin conductance level changes, and changes in and amplitude of activity in facial expressions (the inner and outer brow raiser, brow lowerer, upper lid raiser and lid tightener) were correlated with the reduction in the novelty, suggesting that they could indicate the novelty of the feeling of risk of vehicle occupants. Hence, this research provides evidence for the novelty appraisal of the feeling of risk. Furthermore, it informs research on affect-aware systems to identify and reduce the feeling of risk of vehicle occupants in order to help to keep trust in automated vehicles high. Full article

Wearable sensor devices with minimal discomfort to the wearer have been widely developed to realize continuous measurements of vital signs (body temperature, blood pressure, respiration rate, and pulse wave) in many applications across various fields, such as healthcare and sports. Among them, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based differential pressure sensors have garnered attention as a tool for measuring pulse waves with weak skin tightening. Using a MEMS-based piezoresistive cantilever with an air chamber as the pressure change sensor enables highly sensitive pulse-wave measurements to be achieved. Furthermore, the initial static pressure when attaching the sensor to the skin is physically excluded because of air leakage around the cantilever, which serves as a high-pass filter. However, if the frequency characteristics of this mechanical high-pass filter are not appropriately designed, then the essential information of the pulse-wave measurement may not be reflected. In this study, the frequency characteristics of a sensor structure is derived theoretically based on the air leakage rate and chamber size. Subsequently, a pulse wave sensor with a MEMS piezoresistive cantilever element, two air chambers, and a skin-contacted membrane is designed and fabricated. The developed sensor is 30 mm in diameter and 8 mm in thickness and realizes high-pass filter characteristics of 0.7 Hz. Finally, pulse wave measurement at the neck of a participant is demonstrated using the developed sensor. It is confirmed that the measured pulse wave contains signals in the designed frequency band. Full article