Recent uci_blimc_fp items

ESPRESSO: Spatiotemporal omics based on organelle phenotyping reveals dynamic cell state transitions

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

ESPRESSO: Spatiotemporal omics based on organelle phenotyping reveals dynamic cell state transitions

Cerebral microhemorrhages in a mouse model of sickle cell disease

Wed, 8 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Objectives: Stroke in sickle cell disease (SCD) is often attributed to large vessel involvement in the disorder, whereas the contribution of cerebral microvascular disease has been less explored. In this study, we investigated the formation of cerebral microvascular lesions and the involvement of mast cells in a humanized SCD mouse model. Methods: We studied hemorrhagic microvascular disease in a well-characterized mouse model of humanized transgenic sickle (HbSS-BERK) expressing >99% human sickle hemoglobin (HbS) and a control (HbAA-BERK) mouse model expressing normal human hemoglobin A (HbA). Mouse brains were analyzed by Prussian blue staining to detect cerebral microhemorrhage (CMH) formation. Mast cell identification was performed by toluidine blue staining. Results: SCD brain sections exhibited approximately 86% more CMH than controls (mean ± SE of 1.17 ± 0.22 vs. 0.63 ± 0.13 number/cm², P = .02). Mast cells were positively correlated with CMH number...

Collagen remodeling in murine melanoma therapy response through second-harmonic generation imaging

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study by Heaton et al. marks a significant advancement in understanding the role of collagen remodeling within the melanoma tumor microenvironment during immunotherapy. Using in vivo second-harmonic generation imaging, the authors quantitatively tracked dynamic changes in collagen morphology in a preclinical melanoma model, revealing a shift toward a healthier phenotype associated with treatment. These findings enhance our understanding of tumor extracellular matrix dynamics and highlight the potential of optical imaging technologies to guide and optimize cancer immunotherapy. This commentary will explore these findings, contextualize them within the broader field of tumor immunology, and discuss their implications for improving immunotherapy strategies in melanoma and other cancers.

MEASUREMENT OF PULSATILE FLOW IN THE TEETH USING LASER SPECKLE IMAGING

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

MEASUREMENT OF PULSATILE FLOW IN THE TEETH USING LASER SPECKLE IMAGING

Effects of Tobacco Use on Oral Cancer Screening Algorithm Performance

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background/Objectives: Effective screening for oral cancer (OC) remains challenging. Inaccuracies contribute to delayed diagnosis and poor outcomes. Tobacco-related changes in oral mucosa may compromise the accuracy of oral screening approaches, and, in emerging "smart" screening modalities, they may overshadow the influence of other predictive variables. The objective of this study was to evaluate the screening accuracy of an imaging- and risk factor-based OC screening platform in individuals practicing different types of tobacco usage. Methods: 318 subjects who had previously screened positive for increased OC risk were recruited and sorted into "tobacco smoker", "tobacco vaper", "tobacco chewer", "hookah user", "multiple tobacco usage", or "tobacco non-user" groups. Next, demographic information, risk factors, outcome of clinical examination, as well as AFI and pWLI were recorded using a prototype OC screening platform. The OC risk assessment outcome from the...

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Dental Ergonomics: How Hand Health Shapes Clinical Instrumentation

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Dental Ergonomics: How Hand Health Shapes Clinical Instrumentation

Performance of Automated Oral Cancer Screening Algorithm in Tobacco Users vs. Non-Tobacco Users

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Oral non-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions have similar clinical manifestations, increasing the risk of inaccurate screening decisions that adversely affect oral cancer (OC) outcomes. Tobacco-use-related changes in the oral soft tissues may affect the accuracy of “smart” oral screening modalities. Because smoking is such a strong predictor of OC risk, it may overwhelm the impact of other variables on algorithm performance. The objective was to evaluate the screening accuracy in tobacco users vs. non-users of a previously developed prototype smartphone and machine-learning algorithm-based oral health screening modality. 318 subjects with healthy mucosa or oral lesions were allocated into either a “tobacco smoker” group or a “tobacco non-smoker” group. Next, intraoral autofluorescence (AFI) and polarized white light images (pWLI), risk factors as well as clinical signs and symptoms were recorded using the prototype screening platform. OC risk status as determined by the algorithm...

Multiplexed bioluminescence microscopy via phasor analysis

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Bioluminescence imaging with luciferase–luciferin pairs is a well-established technique for visualizing biological processes across tissues and whole organisms. Applications at the microscale, by contrast, have been hindered by a lack of detection platforms and easily resolved probes. We addressed this limitation by combining bioluminescence with phasor analysis, a method commonly used to distinguish spectrally similar fluorophores. We built a camera-based microscope equipped with special optical filters to directly assign phasor locations to unique luciferase–luciferin pairs. Six bioluminescent reporters were easily resolved in live cells, and the readouts were quantitative and instantaneous. Multiplexed imaging was also performed over extended time periods. Bioluminescent phasor further provided direct measures of resonance energy transfer in single cells, setting the stage for dynamic measures of cellular and molecular features. The merger of bioluminescence with phasor analysis...

Gut dysbiosis and brain microhemorrhages in young vs. aged mice with chronic kidney disease

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Intestinal dysbiosis and gut-derived toxins in chronic kidney diseases (CKD) are associated with vascular injury. This study examined the relationship between gut dysbiosis and cerebral microhemorrhages (CMH) in young and aged CKD mice (3 vs. 16 months of age) in both sexes. CKD was induced in C57BL/6J mice using a nephrotoxic adenine diet. Serum creatinine, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (pCS) were measured. CMH was quantified via brain histology, and gut microbial sequencing was analyzed from fecal pellets. Creatinine and uremic toxins were elevated in both young and aged CKD mice compared with controls, and microbial populations were altered by age, sex and CKD status. Age was the most significant factor in microbial variance, with higher levels of IS and pCS in aged CKD mice. Aged male mice had significantly higher creatinine, TMAO and IS than aged females. Males had higher CMH counts than females, and aged CKD males had the highest...

Abstract 4369129: Essential Role of KCNQ5 (Kv7.5) Potassium Channels in Vascular Reactivity and Adrenergic Signaling

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction/Background: Vascular tone dysregulation is central to cardiovascular pathophysiology. KCNQ (Kv7) potassium channels, primarily heteromeric KCNQ4/5 channels, regulate smooth muscle membrane potential and contractility, yet the specific role of the KCNQ5 subunit in vascular reactivity remains underexplored. The absence of KCNQ5-specific tools has limited mechanistic understanding, particularly regarding receptor-mediated signaling in distinct vascular beds. Research Questions/Hypothesis: We hypothesized that KCNQ5 plays a critical, region-specific role in vascular contractility and receptor-mediated relaxation, particularly to adrenergic stimuli. We aimed to determine whether genetic deletion of KCNQ5 disrupts vasoreactivity and arterial signaling dynamics. Methods/Approach: We generated a CRISPR-based germline KCNQ5 knockout ( Kcnq5 -/- ) rat line. Using in vivo multimodal monitoring (cardiac and brain hemodynamics), ex vivo myography of mesenteric and cerebral...

Cryptogenic stroke, embolic stroke of unknown source, and the left atrial septal pouch: the role of transesophageal echocardiography

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Cryptogenic stroke accounts for a substantial proportion of ischemic strokes and often poses a diagnostic challenge due to the limitations of the TOAST classification in identifying atypical mechanisms. The left atrial septal pouch (LASP) is a blind-ended pouch arising from the incomplete fusion of the septum primum and septum secundum and is mutually exclusive with a patent foramen ovale (PFO). LASP is typically diagnosed using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), an imaging modality not routinely utilized in the evaluation of either cryptogenic stroke or a related entity, embolic stroke of unknown source (ESUS). Consequently, LASP may be underdiagnosed and unrecognized as a potential risk factor. We examined the association between LASP and cryptogenic stroke. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched PubMed and EMBASE to identify relevant studies. The association between LASP and cryptogenic stroke was estimated by the odds ratio (OR) (unadjusted) and 95 % confidence...

Subcutaneous Lactate Correlates With Arterial Lactate in Severe Combined Trauma and Shock in Swine

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

INTRODUCTION: Changes in blood lactate (Lac) carry prognostic value in pathologic processes and guide decision-making on therapeutic interventions. This feasibility study evaluated a new wearable continuous lactate monitor (CLM) currently undergoing preclinical validation in severe combat-relevant porcine trauma models. PURPOSE: Assess the performance of CLM compared to arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. HYPOTHESIS: CLM-derived Lac values correlate with ABG Lac. METHODS: Female Yorkshire swine (50-60 kg, N = 6) were anesthetized, mechanically ventilated, subjected to a combination of the following injuries: bilateral pulmonary contusion (PC), traumatic brain injury (TBI), or hemorrhagic shock (HEM): (PC N = 3, PC + TBI N = 1; PC + HEM N = 1; PC + TBI + HEM N = 1). Animals were managed with immediate application of veno-venous extracorporeal life support. Two CLMs were placed in the skin of the lower abdomen. ABG analysis was performed using a GEM Premier 4000 [Werfen, Bedford,...

Label-free human skin imaging with enhanced molecular contrast via time-resolved fluorescence and advanced phasor analysis

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Current state-of-the-art clinical skin imaging using label-free multiphoton microscopy (MPM) faces challenges due to limited molecular specificity, which hampers the accurate characterization of skin tissues because of overlapping fluorescence signals from multiple molecular components. In this study, we present a novel approach to enhance molecular contrast in MPM clinical skin imaging by leveraging advanced strategies to effectively unmix the various endogenous fluorophores present in the skin with the performance capabilities of a recently developed imaging platform for in vivo time-resolved fluorescence imaging of human skin. By identifying phasor positions of key endogenous skin fluorophores – such as keratin, melanin, free NADH, and protein-bound NADH – we effectively perform multicomponent unmixing in different skin types and conditions, including those with varying levels of pigmentation and metabolic states. The phasor analysis allows for the mapping and quantification...

Intersurgeon Variability in Proptosis Reduction After Orbital Decompression for Thyroid Eye Disease: A Multicenter Analysis.

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

PURPOSE: This study assesses intersurgeon variability in proptosis reduction after orbital decompression for thyroid eye disease. METHODS: This multicenter retrospective study included patients with thyroid eye disease who underwent orbital decompression from 1 of 7 surgeons at 7 different institutions between January 2002 and December 2018. Data were included if a single decompression technique was performed on ≥10 patients by ≥2 surgeons. The primary outcome was postoperative change in proptosis with emphasis on comparison among surgeons utilizing similar surgical techniques. Statistical analysis was performed with χ2 and ANOVA testing, and a multivariable logistic regression model was generated. RESULTS: Six hundred thirty-three orbits that underwent orbital decompression were included. Five different decompression techniques were analyzed: medial wall (n = 29), fat + lateral wall (n = 113), medial wall + floor (n = 123), fat + lateral wall + medial wall (n = 140), and fat...

Two-step regression analysis approach to assess burn wound severity using spatial frequency domain imaging

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Significance: Prompt care is essential for burn wound recovery. Spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) has previously shown promise in predicting healing outcomes across burn severity grades. This study builds on that by demonstrating calibrated reflectance images ( ) from SFDI can estimate thermally induced collagen denaturation depth (CDD), a histology-based metric of burn severity linked to healing outcomes. These findings may simplify future hardware design by clarifying contrast sources in SFDI. Aim: To develop predictive models for: 1) Day-1 postburn CDD using SFDI and 2) Day-28 healing outcomes using day-1 CDD. Approach: Using a previously reported graded-severity porcine burn model ( ) with eight contact durations (5 to 40 s), we collected SFDI and color images on days 0, 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28. Histological analysis using Picrosirius red staining and polarization microscopy was performed on days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 to assess CDD. Healing outcomes were clinically...

Treatment preferences by disease severity in alopecia areata: A cross-sectional survey study

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Treatment preferences by disease severity in alopecia areata: A cross-sectional survey study

Two-visit Repeatability Of VL and PFC Hemoglobin Thresholds In Ramp Exercise

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Two-visit Repeatability Of VL and PFC Hemoglobin Thresholds In Ramp Exercise

Short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectroscopy and imaging of biological tissues: a decade of advancements (2016-2025)

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance: Short-wave infrared (SWIR) light has recently gained popularity in tissue spectroscopy and imaging applications for a wide range of biomedical applications, primarily due to advancements in hardware (e.g., cameras). Aim: We aim to provide a detailed review of SWIR-based biomedical optics studies from the past decade, during which there has been a proliferation of SWIR-based tissue-optics studies. Approach: We report literature occurring after the publication of our previous (2015) review of this space, describing next-generation SWIR-based techniques that hold significant promise for enhanced in vivo tissue characterization and clinical translation. Results: Interest from the biophotonics field in SWIR technology is typically attributable to (1) the capability of SWIR light to provide greater sensitivity to chromophores such as water and lipids, with absorption peaks not as prominent in the visible-to-near-infrared (VIS-NIR) spectral region, and (2) the...

Real-time tracking of the Bragg peak during proton therapy via 3D protoacoustic Imaging in a clinical scenario

Wed, 3 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Proton radiotherapy favored over X-ray photon therapy due to its reduced radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, is highly dependent on the accurate positioning of the Bragg peak. Existing methods like PET and prompt gamma imaging to localize Bragg peak face challenges of low precision and high complexity. Here we introduce a 3D protoacoustic imaging with a 2D matrix array of 256 ultrasound transducers compatible with 256 parallel data acquisition channels provides real-time imaging capability (up to 75 frames per second with 10 averages), achieving high precision (5 mm/5% Gamma index shows accuracy better than 95.73%) at depths of tens of centimeters. We have successfully implemented this method in liver treatment with 5 pencil beam scanning and in prostate cancer treatment on a human torso phantom using a clinical proton machine. This demonstrates its capability to accurately identify the Bragg peak in practical clinical scenarios. It paves the way for adaptive radiotherapy...

Consensus guidelines for cellular label-free optical metabolic imaging: ensuring accuracy and reproducibility in metabolic profiling

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance: Cellular metabolism plays a central role in health and disease, making its study critical for advancing diagnostics and therapies. Label-free optical metabolic imaging using endogenous fluorescence from reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) [NAD(P)H] and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) provides nondestructive, high-resolution insights into metabolic function and heterogeneity from the sub-cellular to the tissue level. Standardized approaches are essential to ensure reproducibility and comparability across studies. Aim: We aim to establish a consensus framework for the acquisition, calibration, and reporting of microscopic imaging metabolic function assessments based on fluorescence intensity and lifetime measurements of NAD(P)H and FAD. Approach: We present best practices for calibrating, analyzing, and reporting fluorescence intensity-based optical redox ratios and fluorescence lifetime data using multiexponential fitting and phasor analysis. Guidelines...

Label-free multiphoton microscopy of human skin: longitudinal studies capturing cell dynamics

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study presents recent advances in an imaging platform developed by our lab, the fast large area multiphoton exoscope (FLAME), a microscope designed for clinical skin imaging. Its dual-scanning modality enables reliable, cellular-scale imaging of the same skin locations over extended time periods across areas up to 1 cm². Enabling fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, this device, for the first time in vivo, allows detailed longitudinal tracking of cellular dynamics in human skin, such as responses to injury, significantly advancing the capabilities of dermatological research. By overcoming previous limitations in large-area, high-resolution skin imaging, FLAME opens new opportunities for monitoring therapy responses, tracking cellular dynamics, and understanding skin biology at the cellular level.

Multivariate Linear Regression Approach to Predicting Burn Depth Using Spatial Frequency Domain Imaging

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We applied multivariate linear regression to spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) data to predict burn depth, as determined by histological grading. To reduce the variable space, we preliminarily employed the minimum redundancy maximum relevance algorithm.

Fast large-area multiphoton exoscope for label-free in vivo imaging of immune cells in human skin

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Fast large-area multiphoton exoscope for label-free in vivo imaging of immune cells in human skin

Highly multiplexed spectral FLIM via physics informed data analysis

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Spectral fluorescence lifetime imaging (S-FLIM) allows for the simultaneous deconvolution of signal from multiple fluorophore species by leveraging both spectral and lifetime information. However, existing analyses still face multiple difficulties in decoding information collected from typical S-FLIM experiments. These include: using information from pre-calibrated spectra in environments that may differ from the cellular context in which S-FLIM experiments are performed; limitations in the ability to deconvolute species due to overlapping spectra; high photon budget requirements, typically about a hundred photons per pixel per species. Yet information on the spectra themselves are already encoded in the data and do not require pre-calibration. What is more, efficient photon-by-photon analyses are possible reducing both the required photon budget and making it possible to use larger budgets in order to discriminate small differences in spectra to resolve spatially co-localized...

CDCP1/mitochondrial Src axis increases electron transport chain function to promote metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BackgroundTriple-negative type of breast cancer (TNBC) has limited therapeutic options and frequently metastasizes, leading to low survival rates. Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) is a driver of TNBC metastasis, but the signaling underlying this metabolic change is poorly understood.MethodsWe performed metabolic assays and assessed migratory and metastatic potential in cells with manipulated CDCP1/mitochondrial Src signaling.ResultsWe show that the pro-metastatic cell surface protein CUB-domain containing protein 1 (CDCP1) activates Src kinase localized in mitochondria, which potently induces OXPHOS and TNBC migration. Genetic targeting of either CDCP1 or mitochondrial Src, as well as pharmacological inhibition of Src reduce OXPHOS in vitro. We further show that mitochondrial Src increases OXPHOS by stimulating Complex I activity in the electron transport chain. Importantly, rescuing Complex I activity in cells devoid of CDCP1/mitochondrial Src signaling restores both OXPHOS...

An open, integrated platform for multiplexed bioluminescence microscopy

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We report an imaging package to democratize all-in-one bioluminescence and fluorescence microscopy. The platform comprises three tools: PhasorViewer, a visualization suite to design experiments and identify optimal probe combinations; PhasorScope, an open-source, cost-effective microscopy framework to upgrade conventional microscopes; and PhasorAnalysis, a dedicated, user-friendly analysis pipeline to quantify phasor imaging data. We demonstrate the utility of the platform for multiplexed, simultaneous fluorescence and bioluminescence imaging with readily accessible optical reporters.

In Vitro Validation of Dynamic Light Scattering Imaging on Fluid Phantoms

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dynamic Light Scattering Imaging (DLSI) quantifies fluid flow and scattering by estimating correlation time and scattering ratios. This study demonstrates DLSI's sensitivity to volumetric flow and flow dynamics, optimizing parameter settings for biomedical imaging applications.

Focused axisymmetric spatially chirped beams.

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A characterization of the focused space-time structures of radially chirped beams is provided, detailing different tunable properties such as: variable on-axis centroid velocity, symmetric pulse front, transverse intensity modulations, and polarization states. While the practical generation of ideal radially chirped beams and polarizations can be problematic, it is shown that the primary characteristics of these beams can be mimicked with simple arrays of 1D spatially chirped beams.

Minoxidil as a treatment for onychodystrophy: a systematic review

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Minoxidil as a treatment for onychodystrophy: a systematic review

Improved temporal speckle contrast model for slow and fast dynamic: effect of temporal correlation among neighboring pixels

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance

Speckle contrast analysis, whether spatial or temporal, is a valuable optical technique extensively utilized in medical and engineering domains owing to its simplicity, affordability, and noninvasive nature. It relies on statistical analysis of the dynamic speckle pattern produced by the sample under examination, offering insights into the sample's dynamics. However, challenges persist in precisely measuring temporal speckle contrast, particularly for slow dynamic samples. Existing mathematical models fail to accurately reflect the experimental data, which could result in misinterpretation of the analyzed results.

Aim

To overcome these constraints, we present a mathematical model that incorporates the correlation between adjacent pixels. We specifically concentrate on temporal correlation, i.e., the relationship between neighboring frames, to compute the temporal speckle contrast.

Approach

We theoretically replicate the statistical analysis typically...

Combined XA/CT Imaging for Bone Density and Elasticity Evaluation: A Simulation Study

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Osteoporosis is a significant public health concern that affects old adults and individuals with certain medical conditions. In this work, we demonstrate the proof of the principle of combining the emerging new radiological imaging technique, X-ray-induced acoustic (XA) imaging, and X-ray computed tomography (CT) for bone density and elasticity evaluation. This combined method is intended for use in single scanner that can perform both XA imaging and CT imaging simultaneously for the purpose of providing accurately registered anatomical localization of structures seen in the CT image to extract the elasticity information in XA imaging. We demonstrate that our nonlinear optimization algorithm can acquire the speed of sound information for bone. By combining the speed of sound and density information from CT, we can calculate the elasticity with an error of less than 1%. We conclude that using CT information as prior information is a feasible way to obtain elasticity information...

CDC42-effector interaction inhibitors alter patterns of vessel arborization in skin and tumors in vivo

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Skin tumors require a vascular supply to grow beyond 1 mm in depth, yet existing anti-angiogenesis agents are largely ineffective at treating melanoma tumors arising in skin. Using an approach that integrates antibody infusion, optical tissue clearing, multiphoton imaging, and vessel tracing, we identified the CDC42 GTPase RhoJ as a critical regulator of skin vessel arborization. Small molecules that target both RhoJ and CDC42 (CDC42 interaction inhibitors), but not those that target only CDC42 (CASIN), inhibit vessel branching in mouse skin in vivo and vascular organoids in vitro. This anti-vascular effect was not limited to skin, as CDC42 interaction inhibitors blocked melanoma tumor vascularization and inhibited tumor growth to a similar degree as Braf inhibitors. Taken together, this work identifies small molecules that target RhoJ as selective tumor anti-vascular agents. RhoJ-targeting drugs have a particular proclivity for blocking skin vascularization, nominating...

Harnessing Dark Core Skyrmions for Optical Trapping and Imaging

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dark core Skyrmions are three-dimensional dark regions surrounded by vectorial light, created using polarization-dependent wavefront shaping, enabling enhanced uniformity, stability. We discuss their utility in microscopy and optical trapping.

Statement from the frontal fibrosing alopecia international expert alliance: SOFFIA 2024

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: As the incidence of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) continues to rise, there is a need for an optimal treatment algorithm for FFA. OBJECTIVE: To produce an international consensus statement on the treatment modalities and prognostic indicators of FFA. METHODS: Sixty-nine hair experts from six continents were invited to participate in a three-round Delphi process. The final stage was held as a virtual meeting facilitated via Zoom. The consensus threshold was set at ≥66%. RESULTS: Of 365 questions, expert consensus was achieved in 204 (56%) questions following completion of the three rounds. Three additional questions were included at the final meeting. The category with the strongest consensus agreement was disease monitoring (9; 100%). Questions pertaining to physical therapies achieved the least category consensus (15; 40%), followed by systemic therapy (45; 43%). LIMITATIONS: The study lacked sufficient representation from Africa and South America. CONCLUSION: SOFFIA...

Uncovering minimal pathways in melanoma initiation

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Melanomas are genetically heterogeneous, displaying mitogen-activated protein kinase mutations and homozygous loss of tumor suppressor genes. Mouse models combining such mutations produce fast-growing tumors. In contrast, rare, slow-growing tumors arise in mice combining Braf activation with heterozygous loss of Pten. Here we show that similar tumors can arise in albino mice bearing only a Braf mutation. Incidence kinetics suggest a stochastic event underlies tumorigenesis in tumors that arise with only a Braf mutation, yet de novo mutations or structural variants that could explain the incidence of most tumors could not be found. Single-cell transcriptomics of tumors identify a cell type resembling “neural crest-like” cells in human and mouse melanomas. These exist in normal mouse skin, expand upon Braf activation, and persist through serial transplantation; analyses of gene expression suggest they serve as precursors of malignant cells. This state may serve as an intermediate...

Inflammation and Neurological Outcomes in Cardiac Arrest - a Narrative Review of Serum Biomarker Investigations.

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBI) is a significant cause of disability following cardiac arrest (CA). Activation of the inflammatory cascade is central to HIBI pathophysiology and drives post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS), which can induce further secondary brain injury. Although numerous studies have described this mechanism in preclinical models, translating this knowledge to therapeutic targets and neurological outcomes in humans is variable and incomplete. The impact of inflammation on the neurovascular unit, comprising neurons, astroglia, and capillary endothelium, may play a significant role in outcomes but is poorly understood in humans. OBJECTIVE: This narrative review explores studies examining PCAS, inflammation, and neurological outcomes in adult CA and classifies them into interrelated pathomechanisms. METHODS: We searched multiple databases using a search string constructed from core concepts, including inflammation, CA, neurovascular unit components,...

Increasing baricitinib accessibility through prescription discounts

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Increasing baricitinib accessibility through prescription discounts

Enhancing burn wound classification with ensemble learning using spatial frequency domain imaging applied to in-vivo porcine skin

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Assessing burn severity is crucial for appropriate care and treatment to reduce the risk of scarring and infection. Currently, practitioners rely on visual and tactile assessments, which can be subjective and potentially misleading. A more objective method recently employed in a swine model involves spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI), a wide-field, noninvasive technique that deduces tissue optical properties using light propagation models. Recent studies have advanced this approach by using machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict burn severity from calibrated reflectance data o btained via SFDI, e liminating t he need f or l ight propagation m odels. Data from a porcine model of graded burns was collected using two distinct SFDI systems: the Reflect RS a nd Clarifi RS (Modulim Inc.). The Reflect R S o perates w ith e ight wavelengths f rom 4 70-850 nm modulated a t s ix spatial frequencies, five f rom 0 t o 0 .2/mm a t e qual i ncrements a nd a nother a t 0 .122/mm, w...

Light Scattering Induced by Orbital Angular Momentum Beams in Microparticle Suspensions

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We explore the propagation of optical vortices and the conservation of orbital angular momentum (OAM) in scattering media by analyzing the phase characteristics and mode composition of scattered vortex beams. Using micro-sized polystyrene particles across varying concentrations and optical path lengths, we investigate how light scattering depends on the optical properties and thickness of the media.

Polarized microscopy with picrosirius red: potential for reproducible burn depth grading

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This research explores the challenges in accurately classifying burn severity and the limitations associated with traditional histology-based model training. Histology, often considered the gold standard for determining burn wound severity, typically employs stains like Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Masson's Trichrome. However, these methods can yield inconsistent results due to subjective interpretation and variability among professionals who interpret histology. The study investigates the use of Picrosirius Red (PSR) staining combined with polarized microscopy as a potential tool for producing consistent, reproducible, and computer-aided grading of burn histology severity. By analyzing collagen denaturation in burn tissues, preliminary data demonstrates a proportional correlation between the depth of collagen damage and burn contact time. The findings suggest that PSR staining enhances visibility of collagen alterations, potentially leading to more objective assessments...

Improved temporal speckle contrast model for slow and fast dynamic: effect of temporal correlation among neighboring pixels

Sat, 2 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance: Speckle contrast analysis, whether spatial or temporal, is a valuable optical technique extensively utilized in medical and engineering domains owing to its simplicity, affordability, and noninvasive nature. It relies on statistical analysis of the dynamic speckle pattern produced by the sample under examination, offering insights into the sample's dynamics. However, challenges persist in precisely measuring temporal speckle contrast, particularly for slow dynamic samples. Existing mathematical models fail to accurately reflect the experimental data, which could result in misinterpretation of the analyzed results. Aim: To overcome these constraints, we present a mathematical model that incorporates the correlation between adjacent pixels. We specifically concentrate on temporal correlation, i.e., the relationship between neighboring frames, to compute the temporal speckle contrast. Approach: We theoretically replicate the statistical analysis typically conducted...

Multiscale analysis of equatorial sclera anisotropy: Revealing discrepancies in fiber orientation and mechanical properties

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The sclera, the eye's primary load-bearing tissue, substantially influences the globe's response to intraocular pressure. Although the mechanical properties of the anterior and posterior segments have been extensively studied, the equatorial sclera's properties remain underexplored, limiting our understanding of ocular conditions like myopia, ocular trauma, and glaucoma. Traditional studies that rely solely on fiber orientation to explain scleral mechanics may overlook the tissue's complex biomechanical behavior. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive investigation using ultrasonic elastography, optical coherence elastography, and polarizing light microscopy to analyze the equatorial sclera's anisotropic properties. Our findings reveal a counterintuitive result: Mechanical anisotropy in the equatorial sclera contradicts preferred fiber orientation. This integrated approach not only challenges prevailing models of scleral biomechanics but also provides fundamental insights...

Dorsal root ganglion-targeted analgesic delivery for effective relief of neuropathic pain

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Neuropathic pain is a devastating experience for patients and its treatment remains challenging. Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is currently an important therapeutic target and DRG-targeted analgesic delivery through systemic injection is however not reported. Herein, a disintegrin and metalloproteinase protein 8 (ADAM8), a membrane-anchored protein primarily recognized as a cancer biomarker, is found to be de novo and persistently upregulated in the DRG neurons in spared nerve injury (SNI) and chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CINP), two neuropathic pain models with distinct mechanisms. We thus designed a DRG-targeted delivery strategy using lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), aiming to effectively deliver conventional analgesics to the DRG to improve analgesic effect through blocking pain signal transduction from the periphery to central nervous system. In vitro and in vivo results revealed that LNPs extended the duration of action of the free analgesic from less than...

Intracoronary Optical Coherence Tomography: Technological Innovations and Clinical Implications in Cardiology

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Purpose of ReviewTo provide the most up-to-date clinical evidence of intracoronary optical coherence tomography (OCT), and clinical implications to guide future imaging research in cardiology.Recent FindingsIntracoronary OCT has demonstrated advanced system performance and high reproducibility in analyzing atherosclerotic lesions. It is an attractive tool due to its capability for functional classification and superior imaging resolution, enabling precise and reliable tissue assessments. Compared to traditional angiography, OCT has been associated with improved long-term clinical outcomes and serves as an effective tool for optimizing stent selection and post-intervention evaluation. The development of OCT variations and the combination of various intravascular imaging modalities further enhance its diagnostic capabilities, allowing a comprehensive assessment of complex vulnerable lesions and improving risk stratification for patients. SummaryCurrent and evolving system development...

Multiscale analysis of equatorial sclera anisotropy: Revealing discrepancies in fiber orientation and mechanical properties

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Vascular Neurology Considerations for Antiamyloid Immunotherapy: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Antibodies directed at the amyloid-β peptide offer the prospect of disease-modifying therapy for early-stage Alzheimer disease but also carry the risk of brain edema or bleeding events, collectively designated amyloid-related imaging abnormalities. Introduction of the antiamyloid immunotherapies into practice is therefore likely to present a new set of questions for clinicians treating patients with cerebrovascular disease: Which manifestations of cerebrovascular disease should preclude, or permit, antibody treatment? Is it safe to prescribe amyloid immunotherapies to individuals who require antithrombotic treatment, or to administer thrombolysis to antibody-treated individuals with acute stroke? How should severe amyloid-related imaging abnormalities be managed? This science advisory summarizes the data and key considerations to guide these challenging decisions as the medical community collects further data and experience with these groundbreaking agents.

Isotretinoin Effects on Nasal Contouring: The Role of Facial Landmark Detection Technology

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Isotretinoin Effects on Nasal Contouring: The Role of Facial Landmark Detection Technology

Autologous cell harvesting device provides repigmentation and improves quality-of-life for patients with stable vitiligo lesions in a large and diverse patient population

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

INTRODUCTION: The mental health burden associated with vitiligo can significantly impact patients' quality-of-life. Although successful for repigmentation of stable vitiligo, adoption of surgical melanocyte transplantation remains limited due to time and skilled-expertise requirements. A cell harvesting device prepares autologous skin cell suspension (ASCS) at point of care, simplifying the process. OBJECTIVE: To confirm early and favorable repigmentation response and evaluate health-related quality-of-life changes following ASCS treatment of stable vitiligo. METHODS: In this large (N = 107), prospective, multicenter study, vitiligo lesions were laser-ablated and received ASCS treatment followed by at-home phototherapy. RESULTS: All Fitzpatrick skin types and major vitiligo subtypes were represented. Excellent repigmentation response (≥80%) was observed by week 4. By week-24, all lesions demonstrated improvement; 67% achieved >50% repigmentation, 42% achieved ≥80% repigmentation,...

History of acne is associated with new-onset acne development in patients with alopecia areata treated with Janus kinase inhibitors

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

History of acne is associated with new-onset acne development in patients with alopecia areata treated with Janus kinase inhibitors

Efficacy and safety of etrasimod in alopecia areata: A multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, Phase 2 study

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Etrasimod, an oral, selective sphingosine 1-phosphate 1, 4 and 5 receptor modulator approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, has been studied in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, including alopecia areata (AA). OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of etrasimod in adults with moderate to severe AA. METHODS: This Phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included patients (aged ≥18 years) with moderate to severe AA, defined as a Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score of ≥25. Patients were sequentially enrolled into two cohorts. Cohort 1 included patients (SALT score of ≥50) randomized 2:1 to etrasimod 2 mg or placebo. Cohort 2 included patients (SALT score ≥25 to <95) randomized 4:1:2 to etrasimod 3 mg, 2 mg or placebo. Patients completed a 24-week double-blind and 28-week open-label extension period. The primary endpoint was percent change from baseline (%CFB) in SALT score at Week 24. Safety was monitored throughout the...

Multimodal Phasor Approach to Study Breast Cancer Cell Invasion in a 3D Spheroid Model

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We implemented a multimodal set of functional imaging techniques optimized for deep-tissue imaging to investigate how cancer cells invade surrounding tissues and how their physiological properties change in the process. As a model for cancer invasion of the extracellular matrix, we created 3D spheroids from triple-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) and nontumorigenic breast epithelial cells (MCF-10A). We analyzed multiple hallmarks of cancer within the same spheroid by combining a number of imaging techniques, such as metabolic imaging of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide by fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (NADH-FLIM), hyperspectral imaging of a solvatochromic lipophilic dye (Nile Red), and extracellular matrix imaging by second harmonic generation (SHG). We included phasor-based bioimage analysis of spheroids at three different time points, tracking both morphological and biological properties, including cellular metabolism, fatty acid storage, and collagen organization....

The Relationship between Stigma and Healthcare Interaction in Alopecia Areata

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: People with alopecia areata (AA) experience stigma, but little is known about how this affects healthcare interaction (HCI). We aim to explore the relationship between stigma and HCI in AA. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 500 members of the National Alopecia Areata Foundation was performed. Survey items related to stigma and HCI were summed and sorted into low, medium, and high tertiles. Multinomial logistic regressions were performed to control for demographic and clinical factors. Results: Respondents (n = 500) were white (80.0%), female (86.2%), and insured (96.0%), with a plurality earning over USD 100,000 annually (34.2%). Participants in the high-stigma subgroup were more likely to be in the low-HCI subgroup (relative risk ratio [RRR]: 2.22; 95% CI: 1.31-3.76; p = 0.003), in comparison to participants in the low- or moderate-stigma subgroups (RRR for both: 0.45; p < 0.05). This relationship was independent of demographics and clinical...

Photo-induced force microscopy

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Photo-induced force microscopy (PiFM) has emerged as a transformative technique in nanoscale imaging, providing insights into the chemical composition and spatial organization of materials at the nanometre scale. PiFM enables innovation in surface science, geological research, biological studies, materials science, photonics and beyond. Compared with other probe-based spectroscopic methods, the nature of tip–sample interaction in PiFM can offer superior spatial resolution and surface sensitivity. This Primer offers the reader an introduction to the fundamentals of PiFM, discusses the configuration of the method, as well as advanced modalities and modifications, such as ultrahigh vacuum and nonlinear techniques. Results and scenarios are summarized, including those in surface chemistry, biology, polymer science and nanophotonics, offering a unique perspective for researchers across multiple disciplines. The Primer concludes with a discussion of PiFM’s limitations and points of...

Advancing Bladder Health Diagnostics: The Potential of Optical Techniques for Noninvasive Assessment of Lower Urinary Tract Disorders

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

PURPOSE: This review evaluates the clinical utility of emerging optical techniques-specifically, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), photoacoustic imaging (PAI), and fiber-optic sensors (FOSs)-as noninvasive, patient-friendly modalities for diagnosing lower urinary tract dysfunction. We assess their potential integration into wearable systems for personalized urological care and propose a novel clinical pathway for their use. METHODS: We included published studies employing optical modalities to evaluate bladder function or pathology, focusing on diagnostic accuracy, feasibility, and patient-related outcomes. We also examined technical principles, diagnostic performance metrics (e.g., sensitivity, resolution, penetration), and clinical validation across optical modalities. A total of 40 articles met the final inclusion criteria. RESULTS: NIRS demonstrates >85% sensitivity for detecting detrusor overactivity in small-scale trials, with wearable...

The Association Between Publication Record and Career Path for Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship Applicants

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: It is unknown whether the publication productivity of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery (FPRS) fellowship applicants before fellowship can be a predictor of pursuing academics in the future. The objective of this study was to assess whether the publication productivity of a cohort of FPRS fellowship applicants was associated with their eventual career path of academic versus non-academic practice. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of a cohort of FPRS fellowship applicants who applied to a single institution from 2012 to 2016. Their submitted publication records at the time of the application process, and their current career positions were queried. Results: Thirty-four (27%) of the 125 fellowship applicants are currently in academic positions with no difference in genders (p = 0.66). Academic FPRS clinicians had a significantly higher number of total publications (6.3 ± 5.1 vs. 4.4 ± 3.9, p = 0.03), first author publications (3.4 ± 3.2...

Structured light imaging mesoscopy: detection of embedded morphological changes in superficial tissues

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance

Current paradigms for the optical characterization of layered tissues involve explicit consideration of an inverse problem which is often ill-posed and whose resolution may retain significant uncertainty. Here, we present an alternative approach, structured light imaging mesoscopy (SLIM), that leverages the inherent sensitivity of raw spatial frequency domain (SFD) reflectance measurements for the detection of embedded subsurface scattering changes in tissue.

Aim

We identify wavelength-spatial frequency ( λ-fx ) combinations that provide optimal sensitivity of SFD reflectance changes originating from scattering changes in an embedded tissue layer. We specifically consider the effects of scattering changes in the superficial dermis which is a key locus of pathology for diverse skin conditions such as cancer, aging, and scleroderma.

Approach

We used Monte Carlo simulations in a four-layer skin model to analyze the SFD reflectance changes resulting...

Control of ultrafast hot electron dynamics in epsilon-near-zero conductive oxide thin films

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The dynamics of nonlinear optical processes in epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) are primarily governed by hot electron relaxation with a sub-picosecond response. However, there is currently a lack of comprehensive understanding of the ultrafast electron dynamics in nonlinear TCO ENZ materials. This study investigates the effects of laser peak power and ENZ mode excitation on hot electron relaxation in TCOs. Our experimental analysis theoretically supported by a hydrodynamic model reveals that increasing laser pulse intensity extends hot electron relaxation time by more than 200%, while ENZ mode excitation increases it by more than 40% in representative TCO ENZ materials. This research demonstrates the controllable modulation of ultrafast ENZ nonlinearity via pulse peak power and ENZ mode field enhancement. These findings provide substantial insights into the potential utilization of ENZ nonlinearity for the development of optical and quantum computing...

Evidence-based consensus on the clinical application of photobiomodulation

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of evidence-based consensus to assist clinicians in using photobiomodulation (PBM). OBJECTIVE: To create a consensus on the safe and effective use of PBM. METHODS: A systematic literature review of Embase and MEDLINE was conducted in June 2022 to identify publications reporting research on PBM. An international multidisciplinary panel was convened to draft recommendations informed by the systematic search; they were refined through 2 rounds of Delphi survey, 2 consensus meetings, and iterative review by all panelists until unanimous consensus was achieved. RESULTS: A multidisciplinary panel of experts (n = 21) was assembled based on publication history. The key findings that informed the consensus developed by the expert panel were as follows: PBM is a safe treatment modality for adult patients and red light PBM does not induce DNA damage. PBM is an effective treatment option for peripheral neuropathy, androgenic alopecia, wound ulcers due to multiple...

Adding to Your Tool Box: Laser Therapy for Vascular Anomalies

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Adjuvant laser therapy of vascular anomalies is based on the principle of selective photo-thermolysis, through targeted destruction of selected chromophores with minimal injury to surrounding tissue. Choice of laser wavelength, treatment parameters, and predicted response to therapy are dependent on the dominant chromophore within the vascular anomaly, lesional location, and target depth, with relatively superficial and mucosal lesions producing the best response to therapy. Lasers can be safely combined with multi-modal approaches for vascular anomalies, including sclerotherapy, surgical excision, and systemic therapy. In this manuscript, we review the laser literature on a range of vascular anomalies, and provide indications, appropriate therapeutic and warning endpoints in the skin, pearls/pitfalls, and multi-disciplinary approaches for pediatric dermatologists pursuing laser as adjuvant therapy for vascular anomalies.

Summation and recommendations for the safe and effective use of topical and oral minoxidil

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Topical minoxidil, approved for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, also has efficacy in many other hair loss disorders, its use is limited due to the need for at least daily application. Oral minoxidil, in doses below those likely to lower blood pressure (so called "low dose oral minoxidil") has increasingly been used off label to treat a variety of hair loss conditions but without any standard recommended best practices. OBJECTIVES: To provide a review of how experts in hair loss use the available literature on topical and low dose oral minoxidil to educate and treat safely and effectively patients with hair loss. METHODS: Dermatologists with expertise in hair disorders met by teleconference and email to review the literature and share their direct experience with topical and oral minoxidil. RESULTS: Provision of basic knowledge of the key aspects of the use of topical or oral minoxidil to insure safe and effective use of either in treating hair loss.

Consensus Statement on the Prevention and Management of Complications of Fully Ablative Laser Resurfacing of the Face

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

OBJECTIVES: To achieve consensus among expert laser surgeons on standards for the prevention and management of adverse events from fully ablative laser resurfacing of the face. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Delphi study with two rounds of ratings and revisions until consensus was achieved. The draft set of statements was developed by a steering committee based on expert clinical experience. This was followed by two rounds of rating and revisions completed by an expert panel, then a virtual consensus meeting. In both rounds, respondents rated the draft statements on a 9-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree; 9 = strongly agree) and optionally provided comments. The consensus meeting was supplemented by the results of a systematic review of the literature (from 2000 to 2023). RESULTS: Two rounds of Delphi survey were completed by 34 participants across four countries. Represented specialties were dermatology, facial plastic surgery, plastic surgery, and oculoplastic surgery. The initial...

Effect of Pulse Modulation on Diode-Pumped Laser Lithotripsy

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: This study addresses pulse modulation for kidney stone lithotripsy using diode-pumped thulium yttrium aluminum garnet (Tm:YAG, λ = 2.02 µm) and thulium fiber lasers (TFLs, λ = 1.94 µm). Three research questions were investigated: (1) What are the effects of varying pulse duration and energy of the first pulse and varying the interpulse delay in a pulse modulation sequence to increase energy transfer across saline to a stone? (2) Does an optimal pulse modulation profile exist in a single-pulse sequence to provide highest percent radiant energy transfer? (3) Does a higher effective energy transfer to the stone using pulse modulation produce greater stone volumetric removal? Materials and Methods: We measured radiant energy transmission efficiency (RETE) and ablation volumes in phantom and human stones. RETE was utilized to compare the pulse energy transmission through air and saline media. We recorded fast camera traces and vapor bubble...

Fundamentals of Eyelid and Facial Flaps

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A flap is tissue transferred from one site (donor) to another (recipient) while maintaining its own blood supply. In oculofacial surgery, defects occur due to congenital anomalies, infiltrative and inflammatory processes, traumatic injuries, or iatrogenic causes. In this chapter, the authors describe fundamentals and the various classifications of flaps used for eyelid or periorbital reconstruction.

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 as a Topical Alternative to Botulinum Toxin: A Review of the Literature.

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 as a Topical Alternative to Botulinum Toxin: A Review of the Literature.

Repositioning the Posterior Septal Angle in Rhinoplasty: Methods and Outcomes

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

OBJECTIVE: Repositioning and fixation of the posterior septal angle (PSA) relative to the anterior nasal spine (ANS) is a well-known maneuver performed during rhinoplasty. Suture techniques through the periosteum along with transosseous drilling through the spine are the two most common fixation methods. We report on how nasal airway patency varies as a function of technique and patient demographic factors. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent PSA repositioning and stabilization during rhinoplasty due to caudal septal deformities. Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scales were measured pre- and post-operation to evaluate functional outcomes. RESULTS: 207 patients with either mobile or immobile PSA underwent ANS fixation secured with either a suture passed through the periosteum of the ANS or with the creation of a drill hole through the ANS. In all patients regardless of clinical or demographic groupings, postoperative NOSE scores...

Structured light imaging mesoscopy for detection of embedded morphological changes in superficial tissues

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study introduces Structured Light Imaging Mesoscopy (SLIM), a novel non-contact optical method for detecting subsurface morphological tissue alterations. By leveraging the inherent sensitivity of spatial frequency domain (SFD) reflectance measurements, SLIM identifies specific wavelength-spatial frequency combinations that optimize the detection of scattering changes in the superficial dermis, a key area for various skin conditions. Monte Carlo simulations across a range of skin tones revealed that these optimal combinations vary with melanin concentration. Specifically, in subjects with lighter skin tones optimal sensitivity is achieved using shorter wavelengths and higher spatial frequencies, while for darker skin tones longer wavelengths and lower spatial frequencies are preferred. This approach simplifies clinical tracking of subsurface microstructural changes by eliminating the need for complex inverse problem solving, enabling rapid data acquisition and minimal processing.

Components of Severity in Alopecia Areata

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Severity of alopecia areata (AA) has been commonly defined by clinician assessment of scalp hair loss. Our aim was to characterize patient-reported factors beyond scalp hair loss that contribute to AA severity while modifying for socioeconomic factors. Methods: Patients with AA were recruited to take a survey. Multivariable linear regression was performed to evaluate lifetime AA severity while adjusting for socioeconomic variables, current AA severity at the time of survey, and patient-reported disease burden. Results: Patient-reported AA severity was associated with scalp hair loss (OR: 4.19, 95% CI: [1.35-13], p = 0.013), facial hair loss (OR: 3.55, 95% CI: [1.75-7.21], p < 0.001), increased financial burden (OR: 2.41, 95% CI: [1.21-4.8], p = 0.013), and greater emotional burden (OR: 2.96, 95% CI: [1.48-5.93], p = 0.002), while presence of comorbidities were linked to less severe AA (OR: 0.38, 95% CI: [0.17-0.84], p = 0.017). Conclusion:...

Chemical Mapping of Nanoparticle–Ligand Interfaces in Optical Nanocavities

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Understanding processes in photon-phonon scattering, absorption, and chemical reactions in optical nanocavities is important for single-molecule sensors, single-photon emitters, and photocatalysis. However, the influence of electromagnetic fields, charge transfer, and molecular geometry is challenging to probe by ensemble-averaged spectroscopic techniques over multiple nanocavities. Photoinduced force microscopy (PiFM), which measures photoinduced polarizability under infrared excitation of a sample in the nanocavity between the scanning probe microscopy tip and sample surface, is used here for simultaneous nanoscale topological and chemical characterization. First-principles density functional theory (DFT) simulations of the vibrational spectra of gold nanoparticle surfaces functionalized with benzenedithiol (Au-BDT) elucidate molecular orientation, charge transfer, and oxidation state for understanding molecular and adatom reconfiguration in optical nanocavities in response...

Nasal Obstruction Outcomes in Medial Flap Turbinoplasty and Inferior Turbinate Submucous Resection

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

OBJECTIVES: To compare longitudinal improvement in nasal obstruction quality-of-life outcomes between medial flap turbinoplasty (MFT) and inferior turbinate submucous resection (SMR) concurrently performed with functional septorhinoplasty. METHODS: Retrospective review of a prospectively collected cohort of patients undergoing functional septorhinoplasty between 2015 and 2022 at a tertiary academic center. Outcomes were assessed using the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) questionnaire preoperatively and over 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: 373 patients were analyzed with longitudinal NOSE questionnaires. Of these, 298 underwent SMR and 75 underwent MFT. The proportion of concurrent intraoperative techniques including rim graft, spreader graft, auto-spreader graft, intradomal sutures, interdomal sutures, and alar spanning sutures were not significantly different between the two cohorts. Patients in all surgical groups had a statistically and clinically significant...

Experimental generation of optimally chiral azimuthally-radially polarized beams

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract

We implement a paraxial azimuthally-radially polarized beam (ARPB), a novel class of structured light beams that can be optimal chiral (OC), leading to maximum chirality density at a given energy density. By using vectorial light shaping techniques, we successfully generated a paraxial ARPB with precise control over its features, validating theoretical predictions. Our findings demonstrate the ability to finely adjust the chirality density of the ARPB across its entire range by manipulating a single beam parameter. Although our experimental investigations are primarily focused on the transverse plane, we show that fields whose transverse components satisfy the optimal chirality condition are optimally chiral in all directions, and our results highlight the promising potential of OC structured light for applications in the sensing and manipulation of chiral particles. We show that helicity density is more general than the concept of handedness. This work represents a...

Structured light imaging mesoscopy: detection of embedded morphological changes in superficial tissues

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance: Current paradigms for the optical characterization of layered tissues involve explicit consideration of an inverse problem which is often ill-posed and whose resolution may retain significant uncertainty. Here, we present an alternative approach, structured light imaging mesoscopy (SLIM), that leverages the inherent sensitivity of raw spatial frequency domain (SFD) reflectance measurements for the detection of embedded subsurface scattering changes in tissue. Aim: We identify wavelength-spatial frequency ( ) combinations that provide optimal sensitivity of SFD reflectance changes originating from scattering changes in an embedded tissue layer. We specifically consider the effects of scattering changes in the superficial dermis which is a key locus of pathology for diverse skin conditions such as cancer, aging, and scleroderma. Approach: We used Monte Carlo simulations in a four-layer skin model to analyze the SFD reflectance changes resulting from changes in superficial...

Standardizing multiphoton microscopy for clinical melanoma diagnosis

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Standardizing multiphoton microscopy for clinical melanoma diagnosis

Real-time cavitation mapping in photo-sono therapy for microvessel removal using Doppler OCT

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Photo-sono therapy (PST) combines nanosecond laser pulses with ultrasound bursts to induce cavitation, enabling selective vascular destruction while preserving nearby tissues. Traditional passive cavitation detection (PCD) is often used to evaluate cavitation activity but suffers from limited spatial resolution, complicating integration with PST systems. To address this, we developed a system integrating Doppler optical coherence tomography (OCT) with PST to visualize cavitation dynamics in real-time. The system comprises a 100 kHz VCSEL sweptsource Doppler OCT and a PST module utilizing a 0.5 MHz High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) transducer and a 532 nm nanosecond pulse laser. The system was validated using both blood vessel phantoms and in vivo rabbit ear vessels. Doppler OCT effectively monitored blood flow changes induced by cavitation, with results corroborated by high-speed imaging and PCD. This integrated system facilitates simultaneous monitoring of microvascular...

Precision medicine in vulvar lichen sclerosus: advancing diagnosis and monitoring through optical coherence tomography angiography

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that predominantly affects anogenital skin in women. Despite its significant impact, the true prevalence of vulvar LS remains uncertain due to underdiagnosis and underreporting [1]. Studies estimate LS affects up to 3% of postmenopausal women, with an increasing incidence, though it also occurs in premenopausal women and children [2]. This condition is often underserved, and delays in diagnosis can severely impact patients' quality of life, leading to irreversible scarring, vulvar architectural distortion, genitourinary complications, and chronic pain syndromes [3]. Currently, there is limited understanding of LS pathogenesis and no FDA-approved treatments, with lifelong management being the standard approach. Skin biopsies are the gold standard for diagnosing LS; however, they are invasive, particularly in the sensitive vulvar region, and time-consuming. Additionally, approximately 5% of women with LS develop vulvar...

Non-invasive, label-free, two-photon detection of epithelial metabolic precursors to repigmentation in vitiligo micrografts

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Non-invasive, label-free, two-photon detection of epithelial metabolic precursors to repigmentation in vitiligo micrografts

Deep learning-based automated segmentation of airway OCT images acquired during drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE)

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common upper airway disorder with severe long-term health impacts. There is a critical need for methods that provide quantitative information on dynamic airway collapse during sleep; information not available from sleep studies or conventional Imaging (e.g., CT). We present an alternative minimally invasive approach that combines drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and deep learning. These studies generate a massive volume of data, hence automated methods are needed using deep learning/convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to segment images. This strategy enhances the identification of critical regions prone to collapse, providing a robust tool to optimize treatment for OSA.

In-vivo optical microscopy and single cell transcriptomics approaches provide insights into therapeutic response of vitiligo

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In-vivo optical microscopy and single cell transcriptomics approaches provide insights into therapeutic response of vitiligo

Potential-driven electrochemical clearing of ex vivo acidic corneal injuries

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Acidic corneal injuries pose a serious clinical challenge, often resulting in significant ocular damage and vision impairment. This study evaluates the efficacy of potential-driven electrochemical clearing (P-ECC) for treating acute acidic corneal injuries in ex vivo porcine eye models. Objective: To assess P-ECC effectiveness in clearing acidic corneal injuries, its impact on tissue structure, injury progression, and potential clinical applications. Methods: Ex vivo porcine eyes were subjected to 5M HCl to simulate acidic injuries, followed by irrigation with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Mobile P-ECC treatment was applied using platinum electrodes (30 seconds per site). Efficacy was assessed through optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging (∼35 frames per second) and second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging to analyze corneal clarity, thickness, and collagen organization before acid damage, after damage, and after P-ECC treatment. Irrigation with PBS served...

574: GRADE 3 DAI IN TBI DOES NOT PREDICT NEED FOR TRACHEOSTOMY, GASTROSTOMY, OR DISCHARGE OUTCOME

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

574: GRADE 3 DAI IN TBI DOES NOT PREDICT NEED FOR TRACHEOSTOMY, GASTROSTOMY, OR DISCHARGE OUTCOME

Miniaturized head-mount Doppler optical coherence tomography scope for freely moving mouse

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Optical brain imaging has several advantages over other imaging techniques and was used to visualize both the structural and functional aspects of the brain, providing a more complete picture of brain activity. One of the promising techniques is optical coherence tomography (OCT), which uses low-coherence interferometry to obtain three-dimensional depth-resolved imaging of structures. In this research, we present a miniaturized head-mount Doppler OCT system tailored for high-resolution brain imaging in freely moving mice, providing an advanced non-invasive imaging tool in neuroscience research. With a maximum 4×4 mm field of view, 7.4 µm axial resolution, the system offers reliable imaging capabilities. Its compact design and comprehensive imaging capabilities make it well-suited for studying various brain regions and dynamic processes, contributing significantly to our understanding of brain function and pathology.

In vivo optical imaging of vitiligo skin grafting treatment using multiphoton microscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (Conference Presentation)

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In vivo optical imaging of vitiligo skin grafting treatment using multiphoton microscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (Conference Presentation)

Meeting Highlights The 4th Marie Skłodowska-Curie Symposium on cancer research and care: Mechanisms of support for regional & international collaborations

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Symposia on Cancer Research and Care (MSCS-CRC) promote collaborations between cancer researchers and care providers in the United States, Canada and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) to accelerate the development of new cancer therapies, new strategies for early detection and prevention, and improve cancer care and the quality of life for patients and their families. The 4th MSCS-CRC (September 25-27, 2024, Buffalo, New York) brought together 147 participants from the US, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Ukraine, and involved representatives of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Cancer Institute (NCI) and their counterparts from Poland, Ukraine Lithuania and other CEECs. They were accompanied by New York State (NYS) and local representatives of the NYS Empire State Development, and of the Translational Research Consortium of Cancer Centers (TRCCC), involving 13 cancer centers from the...

Cerebrovascular alterations in a mouse model of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder with cerebrovascular alterations contributing to cognitive decline. Assessing cerebrovascular changes in mouse models that mimic the human condition of late-onset, sporadic AD is important for better human applicability. Aim: To assess cerebrovascular changes in three mouse models: (1) 3xTg-AD; (2) the humanized amyloid-beta knock-in ( -KI) mouse model of late-onset, sporadic AD; and (3) age-matched wild-type mice. Approach: We measured resting-state cerebral blood flow (CBF) and neurovascular coupling (NVC) using laser speckle imaging (LSI) and performed ex vivo analyses of gene expression and cerebrovascular structure using bulk ribonucleic acid sequencing and confocal microscopy, respectively. Results: Our study identifies specific cerebrovascular alterations in the -KI mouse model, including increased resting-state CBF, a shift toward smaller blood vessel diameters,...

Label-Free Prediction of Fluorescently Labeled Fibrin Networks

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

While fluorescent labeling has been the standard for visualizing fibers within fibrillar scaffold models of the extracellular matrix (ECM), the use of fluorescent dyes can compromise cell viability and photobleach prematurely. The intricate fibrillar composition of ECM is crucial for its viscoelastic properties, which regulate intracellular signaling and provide structural support for cells. Naturally derived biomaterials such as fibrin and collagen replicate these fibrillar structures, but longitudinal confocal imaging of fibers using fluorescent dyes may impact cell function and photobleach the sample long before termination of the experiment. An alternative technique is reflection confocal microscopy (RCM) that provides high-resolution images of fibers. However, RCM is sensitive to fiber orientation relative to the optical axis, and consequently, many fibers are not detected. We aim to recover these fibers. Here, we propose a deep learning tool for predicting fluorescently...

Computational methods for focused arbitrary laser fields in plasma simulations

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

An open-source code, arbitrary laser fields for particle-in-cell (ALFP), is provided to enable the use of accurately focused arbitrary beam structures in particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations, and is used to demonstrate the utility of space-time coupled beams for ion acceleration. ALFP provides significant flexibility for simulating focused beams with complex space, time, and polarization couplings in PIC simulations. This facilitates exploration of laser-matter interactions beyond the standard Gaussian laser pulse interaction. Additionally, polychromatic focusing effects that are often left out of analytic formulations are included. ALFP is first verified against theory, both directly with its computed output field and with 3D PIC simulations. Then ALFP is used to simulate space-time coupled beams in laser-matter interaction 2D PIC simulations, revealing improvements in ion collimation.

Advancements in time-resolved detection for in vivo multiphoton microscopy of human skin

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Advancements in time-resolved detection for in vivo multiphoton microscopy of human skin

Exercise As A Tool For Evaluation Of A Novel Subcutaneous Lactate Monitor

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Exercise As A Tool For Evaluation Of A Novel Subcutaneous Lactate Monitor

Preparations for Ultra-High Dose Rate 2590 MeV Electron Radiation Experiments with a Compact, High-Peak-Current, X-band Linear Accelerator

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Distributed Charge Compton Source (DCCS) developed by Lumitron Technologies, Inc. has produced a 25-MeV electron beam with 1.7-nC macrobunches at a 100-Hz repetition rate from a compact, high-gradient X-band (11.424 GHz) accelerator. The DCCS is currently being commissioned to produce 100-MeV-class electrons, well within the very high energy electron (VHEE) energy regime, with macrobunch charges of up to 25 nC at repetition rates up to 400 Hz. The DCCS is also designed to produce imaging X rays through Laser Compton scattering. This work aims to describe the preparations for the first dosimetry experimental campaign using this accelerator system at energies ranging from 25 MeV to 90 MeV through hardware development and Monte Carlo (TOPAS) simulation studies. A significant goal of these preparations is to configure the machine so that it can be used to both image with X rays and subsequently treat with VHEEs without movement of the animal model under study. At ultra-high dose...

Community-Based Telehealth Approach Improves Specialist Access for Individuals with Increased Cancer Risk in Low-Resource Settings

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background/Objectives: The low-resource, minority and underserved populations (LRMU) that carry the highest risk of oral cancer (OC) experience many barriers to early detection and treatment, resulting in disproportionately poor outcomes. One major barrier to better outcomes is poor compliance with specialist referral for diagnosis and treatment. The goal of this prospective study was to compare specialist referral compliance for Telehealth vs. in-person visits in LRMU individuals screening positive for increased OC risk. Methods: Forty subjects who had screened positive for oral potentially malignant lesions (OPMLs) were recruited from community clinics. The subjects indicated whether they would prefer an in-person or Telehealth specialist visit. They were offered assistance with all aspects of the visit, and then tracked over 3 months for referral compliance. A novel, very low-cost, simple Telehealth platform located within the community clinic was used for the...

GSLab: open-source platform for advanced phasor analysis in fluorescence microscopy

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

SUMMARY: GSLab addresses the need for effective image analysis tools in fluorescence microscopy by providing an open-source platform that enhances traditional phasor analysis with advanced features. Key capabilities include machine learning-based clustering, real-time monitoring, and quantitative unmixing of fluorescent species. Designed for both commercial and custom systems, GSLab provides researchers with comprehensive lifetime and spectral phasor image analysis tools to tackle complex biological problems. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION: The software is written as a MATLAB app. It is available for download at: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.27921966. Example files and tutorials are also available: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.28067108. For developers who wish to contribute please use: https://github.com/AlexVallmitjana/GSLab. A compiled Windows installer (does not require MATLAB) is available at: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.28655276.

Brain endothelial cells as phagocytes: mechanisms and implications

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BECs) lining the brain capillaries form the anatomical site of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), providing a highly selective barrier to support brain homeostasis and function. While the BBB acts as a barrier to immune cells and pathogens under normal conditions, BECs can facilitate their entry into the CNS via a phagocytosis-like mechanism. A similar process is now increasingly reported for a diverse set of cargos, resulting in the categorization of BECs as “non-professional” phagocytes and redefining the conventional view that these cells are functionally non-phagocytic. This review aims to summarize research demonstrating the capacity of BECs to phagocytose various cargos, including aged red blood cells (RBC), myelin debris, and embolic particles. Mechanistically, BEC phagocytosis can be triggered by the exposure of phosphatidylserine on RBC, expression of adhesion molecules such as ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 on BECs, cargo-opsonization, and/or involve...

Histology-Grounded Automated Plaque Subtype Segmentation in Intravascular Optical Coherence Tomography

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Intravascular optical coherence tomography (IVOCT) adoption has been limited by the complexity of image interpretation. The interpretation of histologic subtypes beyond lipid, calcium, and fibrous is challenging to human readers. To assist and standardize IVOCT image analysis, we demonstrate an artificial intelligence algorithm based on a histology data set that identifies lipid pools, fibrofatty, calcified lipid, and calcified fibrous in human coronary arteries for the first time. Methods: Sixty-seven human coronary arteries were imaged with IVOCT within 24 hours after death and then underwent histologic examination. IVOCT images were coregistered and segmented into histologic subtypes: lipid pools, fibrofatty tissue, calcified lipid, and calcified fibrous tissue. Experiments regarding lipidic plaque included fibrofatty tissue, lipid pools, and calcified lipids. Experiments regarding calcium plaque included calcified fibrous and calcified lipid plaques. Optical coherence...

Evaluating the Ergonomic Performance of a Novel Periodontal Curette with Adaptive Handle Design

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

(1) Background: Periodontal instrumentation with dental curettes is associated with discomfort, fatigue, and musculoskeletal diseases. The goal of this study was to compare comfort, fatigue, and muscle work using three different curettes. (2) Methods: Eight hygienists each scaled three typodonts using the three different curettes. Curette A was a prototype with a novel adaptive design, Curette B had a conventional stainless-steel design, and Curette C featured a conventional silicon-covered handle. Time-based work in four muscles, comfort, fatigue, tactile feedback, grip and blade position, and pinch and grasp strength were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using a General Linear Model (GLIM) and Tukey’s post hoc test. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. (3) Results: Comfort, correct grasp, fingertip placement, and blade-to-tooth adaptation were significantly better with Curette A (p < 0.05). While pinch and grasp strength were significantly reduced...

Development of cerebral microhemorrhages in a mouse model of hypertension

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Cerebral microhemorrhages (CMH) are the pathological substrate for MRI-demonstrable cerebral microbleeds, which are associated with cognitive impairment and stroke. Aging and hypertension are the main risk factors for CMH. In this study, we investigated the development of CMH in a mouse model of aging and hypertension. Hypertension was induced in aged (17-month-old) female and male C57BL/6J mice via angiotensin II (Ang II), a potent vasoconstrictor. We investigated the vascular origin of CMH using three-dimensional images of 1-mm thick brain sections. We examined Ang II-induced CMH formation with and without telmisartan, an Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blocker. To evaluate the effect of microglia and perivascular macrophages on CMH formation, mice were treated with PLX3397, a selective colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) inhibitor, to achieve microglial and macrophage depletion. Iba-1 and CD206 labeling were used to study the relative contributions of microglia and macrophages,...

Optical Imaging of Cilia in the Head and Neck

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Background/Objectives: Cilia are hair-like organelles with various mechanosensory and chemosensory functions. In particular, motile cilia generate directional fluid flow important for multiple processes. Motile ciliopathies have serious clinical implications, including developmental and respiratory disorders. Evaluating the most suitable imaging methods for studying ciliary structure and function has great clinical significance. Methods: Here, we provide an overview of ciliary function, imaging modalities, and applications in ciliopathic diseases. Results: Optical imaging has become a crucial tool for studying ciliary structure and function, providing high-resolution, non-invasive imaging capabilities that are valuable for in vivo applications. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is well suited for the visualization of ciliary anatomy and quantitative studies of microfluidic flow. Conclusions: A deeper understanding of ciliary biology can lead to novel...

Diagnosis and assessment of vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) using optical coherence tomography angiography

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that has a predilection for the anogenital skin in women. The true prevalence of vulvar LS is unknown, underdiagnosed, and underreported [1]. Studies have estimated LS affects up to 3% of postmenopausal women, with a rising incidence [2]. The disease also affects premenopausal women and children. Overall, this is an underserved condition and the related delay in diagnosis can have a profound burden on patients’ quality of life and health outcomes, leading to irreversible scarring, infection, vulvar architectural distortion, genitourinary complications, itch, and pain syndromes [3]. There is a limited understanding of disease pathogenesis and no FDA-approved treatment options, with current guidelines recommending lifelong treatment. In the context of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus, Skin biopsies are considered the standard method for detecting LS. However, they have certain drawbacks, as they are invasive, particularly in...

The Influence of Mallet Mass and Velocity on the Fracture Patterns in Osteotomies

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

INTRODUCTION: Osteotomies are routinely incorporated in rhinoplasty, however, the influence of mass, velocity, kinetic energy (KE), and momentum (p) of the mallet on fracture patterns has not been studied. METHODS: An experimental sledge guillotine setup was designed simulating a mallet strike with adjustable height and mass and 2 mm-thick Sawbone blocks. KE and p were calculated using KE = ½ mass × velocity² and p = mass × velocity formulas. Fracture lengths and angles were measured. RESULTS: Ten groups with varying mallet masses and drop heights were tested with 10 bones per group. Fracture length positively correlated with KE (R = 0.542, p < 0.001) and p (R = 0.508, p < 0.001). Fracture angle also positively correlated with KE (R = 0.367, p < 0.001) and p (R = 0.329, p < 0.001). In groups with similar KE, osteotomies with higher p (heavier mallet with slower velocity) had greater fracture lengths (29.31 ± 0.68 vs. 27.68 ± 2.12 mm, p = 0.013) but similar...

Anatomy and Physiology of the Nasal Valves

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The nasal valves are not simple, 2-dimensional cross-sections but rather a complex, 3-dimensional, collapsible, and heterogeneous structure. Historically, the internal nasal valve (INV) is defined by the septum medially, the caudal margin of the upper lateral cartilage laterally, and the inferior turbinate inferiorly. Typically located 1.3 cm deep into the nasal cavity, the INV angle delineated by the upper lateral cartilage and septum typically measures 10° to 15° in the Caucasian population. As computational methods reveal new insights into nasal valve function, a new conceptual framework is needed to guide rhinoplasty surgical decision-making.

Nonlinear Nanophotonics: feature issue introduction

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We introduce the feature issue of Optical Materials Express on Nonlinear Nanophotonics. This collection highlights recent advances in the design, fabrication, and application of nanophotonic systems that exploit nonlinear optical phenomena, spanning topics from high-harmonic generation and soliton microcombs to plasmon-enhanced emission and mid-infrared nonlinear optics.

Simultaneous imaging of shallow and deep tissues based on multi-line scanning

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

We report a quantitative tissue imagining method that combines spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) by using an illumination of multiple scanned lines. SFDI is suitable for measuring superficial and shallow tissues (