Dermal fibroblasts, the primary stromal cells of the dermis, exhibit remarkable plasticity in response to various stimuli, playing crucial roles in tissue homeostasis, wound healing, and ECM production. This study examines the molecular mechanisms underlying fibroblast plasticity, including key signaling pathways, epigenetic regulation, and microRNA-mediated control. The impact of aging on ECM synthesis and remodeling is discussed, and the diminished production of vital components such as collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans are highlighted, alongside enhanced ECM degradation through upregulated matrix metalloproteinase activity and accumulation of advanced glycation end products. The process of cellular senescence in dermal fibroblasts is explored, with its role in skin aging and its effects on tissue homeostasis and repair capacity being highlighted. The senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) is examined for its contribution to chronic inflammation and ECM disruption. This review also presents therapeutic perspectives, focusing on senolytics and geroprotectors as promising strategies to combat the negative effects of fibroblast senescence. Current challenges in translating preclinical findings to human therapies are addressed, along with future directions for research in this field. This comprehensive review explores the complex interplay between dermal fibroblast plasticity, cellular senescence, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in the context of skin aging. In conclusion, understanding the complex interplay between dermal fibroblast plasticity, cellular senescence, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling is essential for developing effective anti-aging interventions, which highlights the need for further research into senolytic and geroprotective therapies to enhance skin health and longevity. This approach has shown promising results in preclinical studies, demonstrating improved skin elasticity and reduced signs of aging.

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the influence of key biomechanical parameters—orthodontic force magnitude, loading direction, and insertion depth—on stress and strain distribution in orthodontic mini-implants using three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEM). Methods: A three-dimensional model of a titanium orthodontic mini-implant inserted into a mandibular bone segment was developed and analyzed under varying force magnitudes (1–10 N), loading directions (30°, 45°, and 60°), and insertion depths (2–4 mm). Cortical and cancellous bone components were included, and static loading conditions were applied using simplified, linear elastic material assumptions. Results: Stress and strain levels increased with higher force magnitudes, with implant stresses approaching critical values at loads above 9 N. Cortical bone stresses remained within physiological limits, whereas cancellous bone exceeded the microdamage strain threshold at forces greater than 3 N. A 60° loading direction reduced implant bending and strain, while deeper insertion significantly decreased strain and displacement, indicating improved primary stability. Conclusions: Within the limits of this computational model, optimal mechanical behavior was observed under 1–3 N forces, a 60° loading direction, and a 2–4 mm insertion depth. Loads above 9 N approached fatigue and interfacial risk. These findings provide computational insight into the biomechanical behavior of orthodontic mini-implants under the modeled conditions.

Aim of the study Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles containing genetic material, proteins and lipids. They function as potent signaling molecules between cancer cells and the surrounding ones, contributing to the formation of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Exosomes derived from tumor and stromal cells are involved in all stages of cancer progression and play a crucial role in the development of resistance to treatments. Also, because of their function as mediators in cell-to-cell communication, they constitute an essential part of the therapeutic resistance mechanism associated with TME. In this article, we aimed to analyze the current techniques for the isolation and profiling of exosomes, as well as their contribution to TME interactions and therapeutic resistance. We also discuss the emerging clinical applications of exosomes, considering them as biomarkers, direct therapeutic targets, and artificial nanocarriers. A deep understanding of the TME requires a detailed analysis of exosomes and their contents, which is a promising direction for the development of effective clinical applications.

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the influence of key biomechanical pa-rameters—orthodontic force magnitude, loading direction, and insertion depth—on stress and strain distribution in orthodontic mini-implants using three-dimensional fi-nite element analysis (FEM). Methods: A three-dimensional model of a titanium or-thodontic mini-implant inserted into a mandibular bone segment was developed and analyzed under varying force magnitudes (1–10 N), loading directions (30°, 45°, and 60°), and insertion depths (5–7 mm). Cortical and cancellous bone components were included, and static loading conditions were applied using simplified, linear elastic material assumptions. Results: Stress and strain levels increased with higher force magnitudes, with implant stresses approaching critical values at loads above 9 N. Cor-tical bone stresses remained within physiological limits, whereas cancellous bone ex-ceeded damage thresholds at forces greater than 3 N. A 60° loading direction reduced implant bending and strain, while deeper insertion significantly decreased strain and displacement, indicating improved primary stability. Conclusions: Optimal mechani-cal behavior occurred under 1–3 N forces, 60° loading direction, and 6–7 mm insertion depth. Loads above 9 N approached fatigue and interfacial risk. These findings align with prior experimental evidence and provide quantitative guidance for.

Background/Objectives Light-assisted in-office whitening procedures are widely used in clinical practice; however, comparative clinical data remain limited, particularly when evaluated using objective outcome measures. This exploratory pilot randomized clinical trial aimed to assess the immediate objective performance of two light-assisted in-office whitening protocols using standardized digital spectrophotometry. Materials and Methods Twelve healthy adult participants (18–45 years) presenting extrinsic or mixed-type tooth discoloration (baseline shade VITA A3 or darker) were randomly allocated into two parallel groups (n = 6 each). One group received whitening with a 35% hydrogen peroxide gel activated by a diode laser device, while the other group underwent whitening with a 25% hydrogen peroxide gel activated by an LED-based device. Tooth color was measured before and immediately after treatment using a digital spectrophotometer (VITA Easyshade V, VITA Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany), and color differences (ΔE) were calculated based on CIE L*a*b* coordinates. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U test. Results: Both light-assisted interventions resulted in clinically perceptible whitening outcomes (ΔE > 3.3). The LED-assisted group showed a slightly higher mean ΔE value (11.62 ± 5.93) compared with the laser-assisted group (10.96 ± 3.27); however, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.818). Given the limited sample size, the study was not powered for definitive comparative inference. No adverse events were recorded. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this exploratory pilot randomized clinical trial, both light-assisted in-office whitening protocols produced immediate clinically perceptible color changes. Although no statistically significant difference was detected, the limited sample size precludes definitive conclusions regarding relative efficacy. Larger, adequately powered randomized studies incorporating longitudinal follow-up and patient-reported outcomes are required to confirm these preliminary findings.

Maxillary expansion, including rapid maxillary expansion (RME) and surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME), is an effective intervention for addressing airway obstruction and improving respiratory function. This systematic review evaluates the anatomical and functional impacts of maxillary expansion on airway health, with a focus on nasal cavity dimensions, airway resistance, and sleep-disordered breathing. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of studies published between 1970 and 2019 was conducted. Inclusion criteria targeted studies evaluating the effects of RME and SARME using advanced diagnostic tools such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), rhinomanometry, and polysomnography (PSG). Both pediatric and adult populations were analyzed to assess outcomes in nasal cavity expansion, reductions in airway resistance, and improvements in sleep-related breathing disorders.Results: Maxillary expansion significantly increased nasal cavity dimensions, with width increases ranging from 2.5 to 5.8 mm. Pediatric patients undergoing RME demonstrated a 28% increase in nasal volume and reduced nasal resistance by 30% to 45%, reflecting improved airflow. PSG results showed reductions in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) by 50% to 70% in children and 30% to 50% in adults, alongside improved oxygen saturation levels. Longitudinal studies confirmed the stability of these outcomes, with minimal relapse observed over 1–3 years.Conclusion: Maxillary expansion effectively enhances nasal airflow, reduces airway resistance, and improves sleep-disordered breathing, particularly in pediatric populations. The integration of advanced imaging and functional assessments underscores its role as a multidisciplinary solution for respiratory dysfunctions. Further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and explore long-term outcomes, particularly in adult populations.