Fiber nonlinearity limits reach and capacity in long-haul coherent systems. Here we present a single-step, physics-informed neural approach to nonlinear compensation that preserves the parallel structure of the Volterra-series transfer function while learning data-driven corrections, unlike widely used digital back-propagation, which reconstructs propagation with numerous cascaded steps and therefore incurs high computational complexity and latency at comparable performance. The method integrates a trainable linear kernel with a compact nonlinear mapping and provides a hardware-suitable architecture. In a 1125-km WDM link, NN-VS matches the maximum performance achieved by leading digital back-propagation variants at 19% computational complexity and 1/25 latency; in a 12,057-km WDM system, the reductions increase to ~6.6% and ~1/176, yielding an efficiency improvement exceeding 2,600×. These results demonstrate that single-step, parallel compensation-augmented by learned corrections-helps mitigate performance-complexity-latency trade-offs, suggesting a pathway for the efficient deployment of nonlinear compensation in next-generation coherent optical networks.

Cannabis use is rapidly increasing in the United States, yet its perioperative implications remain poorly understood, particularly in trauma populations. Despite expanding legalization, the perioperative effects of cannabis on surgical outcomes remain uncertain. This retrospective cohort study used electronic health record data to evaluate the association between cannabis use, with and without concurrent nicotine exposure, and postoperative outcomes following orthopedic lower extremity trauma fixation. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX Research Network, a global federated electronic health record platform that aggregates de-identified clinical data from more than 90 health systems. Adult patients who underwent surgical fixation of lower extremity fractures between 2015 and 2023 were stratified into four cohorts: cannabis only users (n = 2421), nicotine only users (n = 36,966), concurrent users (n = 2338), and non-users. Primary outcomes included surgical and medical postoperative complications; secondary outcomes included psychosocial outcomes and coagulation parameters (PT, aPTT). Binary outcomes were evaluated using absolute risk differences, risk ratios (RR), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Continuous variables were compared using independent samples t-tests assuming unequal variances. Cannabis-only users demonstrated higher rates of deep implant infection, nonunion or malunion, reoperation, transfusion, readmission, anxiety, and depression compared with matched non-users. Nicotine-only users showed higher rates of wound complications, infection, nonunion or malunion, reoperation, transfusion, pneumonia, myocardial infarction, death, opioid use, chronic pain, readmission, anxiety, and depression compared with matched non-users. Concurrent cannabis-and-nicotine users had higher rates of superficial wound infection, deep implant infection, reoperation, amputation, transfusion, pneumonia, respiratory failure, opioid use, chronic pain, readmission, and anxiety compared with matched cannabis-only users. Coagulation measures were not consistently different across exposure groups. Cannabis use was associated with surgical and psychosocial complications in this large retrospective cohort. Nicotine use was associated with broader adverse effects, and concurrent cannabis-and-nicotine exposure was associated with compounded perioperative risk. These findings support further prospective evaluation of perioperative substance use screening and counseling strategies in surgical populations. Prospective studies quantifying cannabis exposure are needed to define dose-response effects and mechanisms.

Amid the growing demand for natural growth promoters in poultry production, phytobiotics are being extensively explored for their bioactive properties. Study aimed to evaluate the effects of Leontopodium alpinum extract on blood parameters, hepatic histopathological changes, and the expression of genes in broiler chickens. A total of 180 Ross broilers were divided into groups: control (C), E1 (0.5 g kg-1 feed), E2 (1.0 g kg-1 feed). Reductions in serum ALT and AST activities (p < 0.001), TCH (p = 0.001), and TG (p = 0.014) were observed in group E2. E1 showed the most favorable coagulation profile in the case of FIB (p = 0.038), TT (p = 0.041), and PT (p = 0.013), compared to groups E2 and C. Hematological analysis showed increased RBC (p = 0.007), hemoglobin (p = 0.037), WBC (p = 0.001), neutrophils (p = 0.022), and decreased monocytes (p = 0.039) in group E2. Expression of metabolic regulators FASN (E1, p = 0.018; E2, p = 0.007), NRF1 (E2 vs. C, p = 0.002; E2 vs. E1, p = 0.033), PPARA (E2 vs. C, p = 0.002; E2 vs. E1, p = 0.009), and UGT1A1 (E2 vs. C, p = 0.001) was reduced in a dose-dependent manner. HMOX1 (p = 0.003), NFE2L2 (E2 vs. C, p = 0.021), and NQO1 (E2 vs. C, p = 0.003) were downregulated in E2. L. alpinum (E2) enhances antioxidant capacity and metabolic performance in birds without histopathological or hemostatic side effects.

Methylglyoxal is a reactive aldehyde produced by macrophages as part of their antimicrobial innate immune arsenal. Our prior work showed that Listeria monocytogenes relies on glyoxalase A (GloA) and bacterial glutathione to detoxify methylglyoxal and that loss of GloA severely impairs bacterial virulence in mice and results in a 100 to 1,000 increase in bacterial mutation frequency. Glutathione is required for both methylglyoxal detoxification and for allosteric activation of the master virulence regulator PrfA, underscoring its central, yet complicated role in pathogenesis. We previously demonstrated that mutations that lock PrfA in its active conformation (PrfA*) rescue the virulence of gloA mutants. Here, we show that PrfA* not only restores virulence but also rescues the elevated mutation frequency of gloA mutants independently of canonical DNA repair pathways. We hypothesized that a PrfA-regulated gene mediates a GloA-independent mechanism to avoid the toxic effects of methylglyoxal and found that the absence of ActA abolished the PrfA*-mediated rescue of gloA mutations. In addition, loss of ActA in a wild-type background also increased the in vivo mutation frequency of L. monocytogenes. Since the primary role of ActA is to mediate bacterial cell-to-cell spread, we hypothesized that ActA allows L. monocytogenes to migrate away from MG-rich inflammatory foci populated by activated macrophages. Indeed, antibody depletion of elicited macrophages and neutrophils rescued the virulence defect and reduced mutation frequency of gloA mutants. We propose a model in which ActA-mediated actin-based motility allows L. monocytogenes to spatially evade localized methylglyoxal production and hence outrun host defenses.

An in situ nanozyme assembly amplification strategy is reported based on the programmable bioaffinity-driven assembly of streptavidin-Pd@Pt and biotin-Pd@Pt nanozymes, enabling ultrasensitive colorimetric immunoassay of protein biomarkers at sub-femtomolar levels. In this design, streptavidin-Pd@Pt nanozymes are first anchored onto the immunocomplexes through standard biotinylated antibody recognition, followed by the recruitment of biotin-Pd@Pt nanozymes via strong streptavidin-biotin interactions. This stepwise and localized assembly process induces the formation of high-density Pd@Pt nanozyme clusters directly on the target recognition sites, dramatically increasing the local nanozyme concentration and catalytic accessibility. Benefiting from the exceptional peroxidase-like catalytic activity of the precisely engineered Pd@Pt nanozymes, together with the assembly-induced signal multiplication effect, the resulting nanozyme assemblies generate substantially amplified colorimetric signals. As a proof of concept, the proposed immunoassay enables quantitative detection of interleukin-10 (IL-10, selected as a model protein biomarker) with a detection limit as low as 10 fg mL[- 1] (0.54 fM), achieving approximately two orders of magnitude improvement in sensitivity compared with the conventional HRP-based colorimetric immunoassay. This in situ nanozyme assembly amplification strategy provides a simple yet powerful route to transcend the sensitivity limits of traditional colorimetric immunoassays, offering a versatile and readily translatable platform for ultrasensitive biomarker detection.

The Finger iridectomy technique (FIT) utilizes the capabilities of small-gauge, machine-controlled, aspiration-cutter technology within visco-elastic stabilized and optimized anterior segment. A small diameter inked blade was used to create a beveled, self-sealing corneal incision. Visco-elastic was introduced to fill and manipulate the iris away from the target tissue. Then, the tubular, blunt-tipped, 27-gauge device with its single side port is placed onto the tumor where tumor parts are aspirated into and sliced by its internal guillotine blade. The liberated cells and microchunks collect within the aspiration-cutter shaft and effluent tubing assisted by machine-assisted, and surgeon-modulated aspiration. After the removal of the aspiration cutter from the eye, a 3 mL syringe was attached to the blue connector of the effluent tubing. Then, the tip of the aspiration cutter was placed in a small cup of balanced salt solution used to wash through and thus move the specimen into the syringe. Two aspiration passes were required. The visco-elastic was removed to prevent the post-operative increase in eye pressure. This technique was found to provide both cells for cytology and tissue for histology and immuno-histochemical analysis. In addition, the use of visco-elastic and the ability to both aspirate and cut allows for evacuation of secondary hemorrhage. Compared to manually controlled aspiration and sharp-tipped needles used for fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), FIT's aspiration-cutter-assisted biopsy herein described has provided enhanced tissue yield, minimal complications, and no vision loss. This video provides details on the surgical technique, to facilitate its adoption, and integration into clinical practice.

Bitter taste disorders are common chemotherapy-induced side effects that compromise nutrition and quality of life. Since no treatment exists for conditions such as bitter taste hypersensitivity and phantogeusia, we hypothesized that a homoeriodictyol sodium (Na-HED) mouthwash reduces chemotherapy-induced bitterness sensitivity caused by salivary platinum (Pt) species derived from intravenously administered carboplatin. In a clinical pilot study involving patients with gynecological cancer (n = 8) receiving carboplatin-based chemotherapy, dietary intake, salivary Pt concentrations, and changes in taste perception were investigated. Patients exhibited decreased energy and protein intake, and salivary Pt. Using an in vitro blood-saliva barrier model, the transfer of Pt-based agents, specifically carboplatin and cisplatin, was demonstrated. Standardized sensory testing in patients revealed increased bitter taste sensitivity compared with the chemo-naïve baseline. A rinse-and-spit solution containing Na-HED, an approved flavoring compound and antagonist of bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs), reduced the perceived bitterness of caffeine in patients receiving carboplatin (n = 15). As various anticancer agents are predicted to bind to TAS2Rs, a prerequisite for bitter taste sensation, this bitter-masking strategy may have broader applicability. Our preliminary findings show that the Na-HED mouthwash reduces bitter taste sensitivity in patients, supporting its potential to alleviate chemotherapy-induced bitter taste hypersensitivity and phantogeusia.

The rapid increase in air pollution and airborne pathogen transmission has driven the demand for advanced personal protective equipment (PPE) that combines high filtration efficiency whit environmental sustainability. Conventional facemasks are primarily composed of non-biodegradable synthetic polymers, resulting in microplastics pollution and long-term ecological damage. Electrospinning offers a promising approach for producing nanofiber membranes with ultrafine diameters, high porosity, and tunable surface properties, enabling efficient particle capture and antimicrobial functionalities. Biodegradable polymers present sustainable options, as they can form electrospun membranes with high porosity and interconnected structures that effectively capture airborne particles while reducing environmental impact. These materials can also be enhanced with bioactive agents, including metal nanoparticles (NPs), metal-organic frameworks, and essential oils to provide antibacterial properties. In addition, naturally derived fibers are explored for use in the outer and inner layers of facemasks, offering breathability, comfort, and biodegradability. Together, these materials pave the way toward fully bio-based facemask architectures that combine high filtration efficiency, bioactivity, and sustainability. This review explores the potential of biopolymer-based electrospun nanofiber membranes and natural fibers for use in biodegradable facemasks, with a focus on their filtration efficiency, antimicrobial functionality, and overall suitability as a sustainable solution for future PPE applications.

Although plastic threatens terrestrial ecosystems, the effects of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) combination in plants remain poorly understood and need in-depth investigations. This study investigates the effects of polyethylene MNPs (0.1% w/v; Ø 200-9900 nm) on Ocimum basilicum by exposing seeds to MNPs for 5 days (Seed Treatment; ST) or hydroponically-grown 20-day seedlings for 15 days (Plant Treatment; PT). Biometric, physiological, cytological, ultrastructural responses, oxidative stress level and antioxidant responses were analyzed. In PT, transmission electron microscopy revealed MNPs presence in xylem vessel of stem, highlighting the translocation of smaller particles to aerial parts. MNPs adsorption onto roots reduced water uptake, affecting plant metabolism. ST impaired root growth, with signs of cyto-genotoxicity and oxidative damage. PT reduced CO₂ assimilation due to stomatal limitations and altered plants biometric traits, including root length (+42.6%), root biomass (-35.2%) and leaf area. Oxidative stress increased in leaves in terms of H2O2 accumulation (+47.4%) and lipid peroxidation (+22.2%). These findings underscore the detrimental impact of MNPs on basil growth. Further research is essential to elucidate MNPs uptake and translocation mechanisms, and to assess the potential risks of MNPs contamination for plant health and ecosystem integrity.

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder defined by thrombotic and/or obstetric complications in the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). While the clinical role of aPL is well established, the immune mechanisms sustaining their production remain poorly understood. Recent advances implicate CD4+ T cells in the immunopathogenesis of APS, with growing attention to the roles of helper (Th), regulatory (Treg), and follicular (helper, Tfh; and regulatory, Tfr) subsets in orchestrating autoreactive B cell responses within germinal centres. This review synthesizes the current evidence on CD4+ T cell dysregulation in APS, with particular emphasis on primary APS, which represents a valuable clinical model for studying immune dysregulation with limited therapeutic confounding, as treatment predominantly relies on anticoagulation rather than chronic immunosuppression. Experimental studies demonstrate that autoreactive aPL-specific CD4+ T cells are critical for initiating and maintaining aPL responses. In humans, APS is skewed toward Th1 and Th17 polarization, diminished Treg frequency or function, and a dysregulated Tfh/Tfr axis. Specifically, increased activated Tfh cells alongside reduced Tfr cells and skewing toward Tfh17-like subsets, have been linked to increased aPL titres and disease burden. Despite inconsistent findings across studies, likely reflecting phenotypical APS heterogeneity, distinct aPL profiles, and immunophenotyping methodological variations, the cumulative data support a model in which APS involves a coordinated disruption of CD4+ T cell homeostasis, encompassing both effector and regulatory arms. By delineating these immune alterations, this review provides a framework for understanding APS immunopathology and supports CD4+ T cell responses and T-B cell crosstalk as promising targets for mechanism-based immunomodulatory strategies to complement anticoagulation.

The scarcity and high cost of platinum (Pt) resources severely hinder the industrialization of hydrogen production via water electrolysis, necessitating enhanced Pt utilization while maintaining a high catalytic activity. Although metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) enable initial Pt dispersion, mass-transfer limitations during Pt reduction within MOF pores limit practical catalytic performance. This study introduced a magnetic field modulation strategy that leveraged the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effect during ion exchange in a ZnCo-ZIF precursor to achieve a 2.5-fold increase in Pt utilization, effectively overcoming mass-transfer limitations. The Pt-Co/NC-0.5 T catalyst prepared under a 0.5 T magnetic field exhibits excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance in 1 M KOH electrolyte, achieving an ultralow overpotential of only 9 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm[-2], significantly outperforming Pt-Co/NC (98 mV) and commercial Pt/C (36 mV). The mass activity of Pt-Co/NC-0.5 T is 15.5-fold and 3.5-fold higher than those of Pt-Co/NC and Pt/C, respectively. Moreover, at an overpotential of 100 mV, the turnover frequency (TOF) of Pt-Co/NC-0.5 T reaches 0.387 s[-1], which is 2.7-fold that of Pt-Co/NC. This work demonstrates that magnetic fields can effectively regulate Pt mass transfer efficiency within the confined spaces of MOFs, offering a strategy for developing highly efficient hydrogen-production catalysts.

Neurostimulation devices rely on electrode arrays to deliver targeted electrical stimulation for modulating nerve activity. Enhancing stimulation specificity, device battery and energy efficiency, and device miniaturization requires low-profile electrodes with exceptional electrochemical performance. Hierarchical Surface Restructuring (HSR™), a femtosecond laser-based electrode surface treatment technology, enables these improvements by significantly increasing the electrochemically active surface area of the electrode contacts through the formation of highly textured, multi-scale architectures. Although HSR™ offers substantial potential to enable both high-performance electrodes and further miniaturization of electrode arrays, its broader adoption in medical device manufacturing has been limited by cost considerations and the inherent complexities of integrating new surface modification steps into established production workflows. This study investigates the feasibility of applying HSR™ technology to commercially available Pt-10Ir paddle-type electrode arrays and, for the first time, demonstrates that HSR™ can be implemented as a stand-alone, post-fabrication surface modification process that is compatible with existing device geometries and material constraints. This advancement represents a significant step toward broader adoption of HSR™ by medical device manufacturers and demonstrates its overall manufacturing viability. The process developed in this study circumvents key barriers to industrial implementation by enabling HSR™ to be seamlessly integrated into existing production lines as a post-fabrication surface modification step, thereby eliminating the need for major or costly process changes. The morphology, electrochemical performance, and processing efficiency of the restructured electrodes were systematically characterized. HSR™ enhanced key electrochemical metrics-including charge storage capacity, specific capacitance, and impedance-by up to two orders of magnitude, while maintaining short processing times and full compatibility with the device's geometry and constituent materials. These findings demonstrate the potential for HSR™ to be seamlessly integrated into existing manufacturing workflows as a post-fabrication step, providing a scalable and cost-effective approach for enhancing the electrochemical performance of neurostimulation electrode arrays. Furthermore, in-operando CO2-snow-assisted processing was shown to be equally compatible with established production lines, improving electrode stability and surface cleanliness without necessitating any upstream process modifications.