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Interlaboratory reproducibility of the immunocytochemical assessment of oestrogen and progesterone receptors and proliferative activity in fine needle aspiration of breast cancer The purpose of this study was to establish the interlaboratory reproducibility of immunocytochemical analysis of oestrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) expression and Mib1 growth fraction on fine needle aspiration (FNA) smears. A set of 44 immunostained slides for ER, PR and Mib1 were randomly selected from the archives of the Center for the Study and Prevention of Cancer (CSPO) of Florence, Italy, and submitted for reading to 6 Italian laboratories. The generalized kappa statistic was used as an indicator of agreement among the six laboratories. A good correlation for ER and PR was evident. For Mib1 the results showed some discrepancies. In addition to adequate standardization of procedures, these data confirm that the reliability of the immunocytochemistry is strictly linked to accurate analysis of the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Genital skin conditions are rare and pose a diagnostic challenge due to their diverse pathology. Patient anxiety and referral decisions add complexity for primary caregivers. Demographics and overlapping symptoms complicate diagnosis, causing anxiety for both patients and clinicians. Social stigma and apprehension to seek healthcare might delay treatment. Accurate differentiation between benign and potentially serious conditions is crucial. Objective We aim to provide clinicians with a clear and concise framework to assist them in risk stratification, treatment decisions and referral pathways for common genital skin conditions. Discussion Differentiating normal variations is crucial to minimise unnecessary investigations and alleviate patient anxiety. Circumcision status, pigmentation and genetics influence disease presentation. We highlight benign conditions for reassurance. Inflammatory genital lesions might arise from various causes. Biopsies remain essential for accurately diagnosing uncertain cases. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should be promptly diagnosed and treated. Neoplastic conditions can evolve rapidly, requiring an urgent specialist referral. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amelanotic melanoma (AM) is a subtype of hypomelanotic or completely amelanotic melanoma. AM is a rare subtype of melanoma that exhibits a higher recurrence rate and aggressiveness as well as worse surveillance than typical melanoma. AM shows a dysregulation of melanin production, cell cycle control, and apoptosis pathways. Knowing these pathways has an application in medicine due to targeted therapies based on the inhibiting elements of the abovementioned pathways. Therefore, we summarized and discussed AM biochemical and molecular induction pathways and personalized medicine approaches, clinical management, and future directions due to the fact that AM is relatively rare. AM is commonly misdiagnosed. Hence, the role of biomarkers is becoming significant. Nonetheless, there is a shortage of biomarkers specific to AM. BRAF, NRAS, and c-KIT genes are the main targets of therapy. However, the role of BRAF and KIT in AM varied among studies. BRAF inhibitors combined with MAK inhibitors demonstrate better results. Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting CTLA-4 combined with a programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) show better outcomes than separately. Fecal microbiota transplantation may overcome resistance to immune checkpoint therapy of AM. Immune-modulatory vaccines against indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and PD ligand (PD-L1) combined with nivolumab may be efficient in melanoma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the intrinsic excellent mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), carbon nanotube fibers (CNTFs) have been expected to become promising candidates for the next-generation of high-performance fibers. They have received considerable interest for cutting-edge applications, such as ultra-light electric wire, aerospace craft, military equipment, and space elevators. Wet-spinning is a broadly utilized commercial technique for high-performance fiber manufacturing. Thus, compared with array spinning from drawable CNTs vertical array and direct dry spinning from floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition (FCCVD), the wet-spinning technique is considered to be a promising strategy to realize the production of CNTFs on a large scale. In this tutorial review, we begin with a summative description of CNTFs wet-spinning process. Then, we discuss the high-concentration CNTs wet-spinning dope preparation strategies and corresponding non-covalent adsorption/charge transfer mechanisms. The filament solidification during the coagulation process is another critical procedure for determining the configurations and properties for derived CNTFs. Next, we discuss post-treatment, including continuous drafting and thermal annealing, to further optimize the CNTs orientation and compact configuration. Finally, we summarize the physical property-structure relationship to give insights for further performance promotion in order to satisfy the prerequisite for detailed application. Insights into propelling high-performance CNTFs production from lab-scale to industry-scale are proposed, in anticipation of this novel fiber having an impact on our lives in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study investigates the impact of spin-coating speed on the performance of carbon nanotube (CNT)-based optoelectronic synaptic devices, focusing on their long-term memory properties. CNT films fabricated at lower spin speeds exhibited a greater thickness and density compared to those at higher speeds. These denser films showed enhanced persistent photoconductivity, resulting in higher excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) and the prolonged retention of memory states after UV stimulation. Devices coated at a lower spin-coating speed of 2000 RPM maintained EPSCs above 70% for 3600 s, outperforming their higher-speed counterparts in long-term memory retention. Additionally, the study demonstrated that the learning efficiency improved with repeated UV stimulation, with fewer pulses needed to achieve the maximum EPSC in successive learning cycles. These findings highlight that optimizing spin-coating speeds can significantly enhance the performance of CNT-based synaptic devices, making them suitable for applications in neuromorphic computing and artificial neural networks requiring robust memory retention and efficient learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today's wireless environments, soft robotics, and space applications demand delicate design of devices with tunable performances and simple fabrication processes. Here we show strain-based adjustability of RF/microwave performance by applying frequency-selective patterns of conductive Ti3C2Tx MXene coatings on low-cost acetate substrates under ambient conditions. The tailored performances were achieved by applying frequency-selective patterns of thin Ti3C2Tx MXene coatings with high electrical conductivity as a replacement to metal on low-cost flexible acetate substrates under ambient conditions. Under quasi-axial stress, the Kirigami design enables displacements of individual resonant cells, changing the overall electromagnetic performance of a surface (i.e., array) within a simulated wireless channel. Two flexible Kirigami-inspired prototypes were implemented and tested within the S, C, and X (2-4 GHz, 4-8 GHz, and 8-12 GHz) microwave frequency bands. The resonant surface, having ~1/4 of the size of a standard A4 paper, was able to steer a beam of scattered waves from each resonator by ~25°. Under a strain of 22%, the resonant frequency of the wired co-planar resonator was shifted by 400 MHz, while the reflection coefficient changed by 158%. Deforming the geometry impacted the spectral response of the components across three arbitrary frequencies in the 4-10 GHz frequency range. With this proof of concept, we anticipate implementing thin films of MXenes on technologically relevant substrates, achieving multi-functionality through cost-effective and straightforward manufacturing. Modern communication applications may demand devices with tunable performances and simple fabrications. Here, we show strain dependent, adjustable RF/microwave performance by applying patterns of conductive Ti3C2Tx MXene coatings on low-cost acetate substrates in a straightforward coating process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for nanomanufacturing is driven by the current trend of decreasing product sizes and the energy consumed by large modules, which will be surpassed by the creation of nanoscale products with the same qualities and functionalities as large-scale products that consume little energy and have demonstrated functional results. Putting things together atom by atom is now possible because to new kinds of microscopes and innovative techniques for manipulating tiny amounts of materials. New solvents are actively sought for by green technology to replace common organic solvents, which have a high volatility and inherent toxicity that causes volatile organic chemicals to evaporate into the atmosphere. The number of reported publications has increased meaningfully over the preceding 20 years as a result of the scientific community's intense interest in ionic liquids. In this research nanomanufacturing is considered as a viable alternative in the 21st century, the uses of nanotechnology or nanomanufacturing in the twenty-first century were reviewed. This study explores various applications of nanomanufacturing, encompassing robotics, ultrasound, agriculture, and medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unconventional inclusion of monolithic vertical type structures as well as traditional rubble mounds in shallow water yacht harbours can pose interesting challenges for both design and construction of breakwaters and quay walls. This paper describes the design, construction and post-construction aspects of two recent microtidal projects in western Italy, located at the mouth of the river Arno (Boccadarno at Marina di Pisa) and of the drainage channel Rio Martino (Latina, near Rome). The vertical structures made at the shallow roundheads with either reinforced concrete caissons or a crown of micropiles improve the stability, the navigational safety and the wave attenuation in the harbour basins, as compared to traditional rubble mounds, despite the more complex singularity. The vulnerable transitions (due to complex localized hydrodynamics) need specific three-dimensional model testing and preliminary oversizing of the sloping armour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to determine the accuracy of the Mincer method for estimating dental age (DA) using digital panoramic radiographs (PR) in a Honduran population aged 14–22 years. Materials and Methods: This observational, cross-sectional, retrospective study was applied in a sample of 134 digital PR from a private dental center in Comayagua (72 females and 62 males; mean age 18 ± 3 years). A calibrated observer (kappa ≥0.83) analyzed DA with the Demirjian and Mincer method in all third molars (3M) from stage D (complete crown) to H (apex closure) differentiating by sex. The decimal DA of each individual was calculated from the average of the four 3M. Estimation of chronological age (CA) according to the Mincer method was obtained with linear regression formulas. Results: The results revealed that the mean and standard error of the difference between CA and DA was 0.58 ± 0.13 years (male 0.5 ± 0.19 and female 0.65 ± 0.19). Age groups showed higher overestimation (>1.1) from 14 to 17 years (50%–100%), agreement (±1.1 years) at 18 years (66.7%–70%), and underestimation (<–1.1) from 21 and 22 years (42.9%–100%; P = 0.000). The prediction equations of CA according to DA were statistically significant (P = 0.000) explaining 66.5% of the total sample (error = 1.465), 84.5% in males (error = 1.367), and 79.3% in females (error = 1.548). Conclusion: This study concludes that the Mincer method obtained a reasonable prediction to estimate the age of the majority with improvement in the adjustments with the age estimation formula in a specific population in Comayagua, Honduras. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this systematic review is to analyze the literature to determine whether the methods of artificial intelligence are effective in determining age in panoramic radiographs. Searches without language and year limits were conducted in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. Hand searches were also performed, and unpublished manuscripts were searched in specialized journals. Thirty-six articles were included in the analysis. Significant differences in terms of root mean square error and mean absolute error were found between manual methods and artificial intelligence techniques, favoring the use of artificial intelligence (p < 0.00001). Few articles compared deep learning methods with machine learning models or manual models. Although there are advantages of machine learning in data processing and deep learning in data collection and analysis, non-comparable data was a limitation of this study. More information is needed on the comparison of these techniques, with particular emphasis on time as a variable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotube (CNT) fibers have great promise for constructing multifunctional fabrics with high electrical conductivity, good electro-heating ability, excellent flexibility, and a low density. However, the inter-fiber contacts in the fabric greatly reduce these advantages and limit their application. Herein, a simple pressure-fusing method to fabricate single-wall CNT (SWCNT) fiber non-woven fabrics (NWFs) that are composed of interconnected SWCNT fibers with fused joints is reported, which have good flexibility, a low density of 0.46 g/cm3, a high electrical conductivity of 3.7 × 105 S/m, and a record high specific electrical conductivity of 803 (S·m2)/kg. They also showed excellent electrical heating ability, so that a temperature of ∼ 160 °C was rapidly reached at a low voltage of 2 V. Combined with their low density, the SWCNT fiber NWFs are promising for use as a heating unit for low temperature battery protection and de-icing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing need for the multiband photodetection of a single scene has promoted the development of both multispectral coupling and broadband detection technologies. Photodetectors operating across the infrared (IR) to terahertz (THz) regions have many applications such as in optical communications, sensing imaging, material identification, and biomedical detection. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in broadband photodetectors operating in the infrared to terahertz range, highlighting their classification, operating principles, and performance characteristics. We discuss the challenges faced in achieving broadband detection and summarize various strategies employed to extend the spectral response of photodetectors. Lastly, we conclude by outlining future research directions in the field of broadband photodetection, including the utilization of novel materials, artificial microstructure, and integration schemes to overcome current limitations. These innovative methodologies have the potential to achieve high-performance, ultra-broadband photodetectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been regarded as emerging materials in various applications. However, the range of biomedical applications is limited due to the aggregation and potential toxicity of powder-type CNTs. To overcome these issues, techniques to assemble them into various macroscopic structures, such as one-dimensional fibers, two-dimensional films, and three-dimensional aerogels, have been developed. Among them, carbon nanotube fiber (CNTF) is a one-dimensional aggregate of CNTs, which can be used to solve the potential toxicity problem of individual CNTs. Furthermore, since it has unique properties due to the one-dimensional nature of CNTs, CNTF has beneficial potential for biomedical applications. This review summarizes the biomedical applications using CNTF, such as the detection of biomolecules or signals for biosensors, strain sensors for wearable healthcare devices, and tissue engineering for regenerating human tissues. In addition, by considering the challenges and perspectives of CNTF for biomedical applications, the feasibility of CNTF in biomedical applications is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical vapour deposition (CVD) grown carbon nanotubes (CNTs) forest can be transformed into its yarn and sheet thus provides a novel way to harness the excellent properties of microscopic CNTs at a macroscopic scale. The long length CNTs yarn and sheet have been developed from a highly drawable and spinnable vertically aligned CNTs forest with millimetre scale array height based on the parametric investigations of a practically viable single-step CVD growth process. The CNTs growth analysis reveals 'root growth' type of growth mechanism. The growth temperature, gas residence time tuned with carrier gas flow rate and controlled supply of hydrogen gas are found to predominantly influence the properties of the CNTs forest like purity, defects levels, spinnability which ultimately controls the quality of the developed CNTs yarn and sheet. The CNTs forest grown from parametrically tuned CVD produced the CNTs with very low defect level of 0.26, inferred from Raman studies and high purity of 98%, accessed from TGA. The CNTs forest grown at growth temperature 840 °C with 300:25:300 sccm optimal ratios of gas flow rates for argon, hydrogen and acetylene are highly spinnable into its long length yarn and sheet which demonstrated excellent tensile strength of ~ 1.186 GPa and ~ 210 MPa, respectively, and electrical conductivity of 2.05 × 104 S/m and 2.57 × 104 S/m, respectively, revealing the strong influence of the purity and level of disorder on the quality of the CNTs yarn and sheet. The high degree of alignment of CNTs within its sheet was assessed from the polarized Raman studies. The obtained excellent physical properties of the grown CNTs forest, its yarn and sheet are comparable with the other reports suggesting its suitability for relevant applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to unique and excellent properties, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are expected to become the next-generation critical engineering mechanical and energy storage materials, which will play a key role as building blocks in aerospace, military equipment, communication sensing, and other cutting-edge fields. For practical application, the assembled macrostructures from individual CNTs are the common paradigms such as fibers or films. As the main representative, CNT films can not only retain the unique properties of their CNTs components, but also are more likely for mass-production than other macrostructures. Therefore, in this review, we focus on preparation of CNT films and discuss their emerging applications in the field of mechanical and electrochemical energy storage/conversion. Firstly, different preparation processes are systematically summarized. Then we introduce some typical strategies to improve their mechanical performances besides strengthening mechanism. Based on the progress of mass-production and performance optimization, we further discuss their potential utilization in mechanical and electrochemical energy storage/conversion devices. Finally, future perspectives for the development of CNT films in both production and application are proposed. We hope that this review will shed light on the preparation/assembly of CNT films and integrated application of excellent properties from individual to macroscopic dimensions. Moreover, the preparation and crossscale application paradigms of CNT films also offer a good model for other macroscopic ordered assemblies of one-dimensional nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-segment lichen sclerosus (LS) urethral stricture is a challenge for urologists. Limited data are available for surgeons to make a surgical decision between Kulkarni and Asopa urethroplasty. In this retrospective study, we investigated the outcomes of these two procedures in patients with LS urethral stricture. Between January 2015 and December 2020, 77 patients with LS urethral stricture underwent Kulkarni and Asopa procedures for urethroplasty in the Department of Urology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (Shanghai, China). Of the 77 patients, 42 (54.5%) underwent the Asopa procedure and 35 (45.5%) underwent the Kulkarni procedure. The overall complication rate was 34.2% in the Kulkarni group and 19.0% in the Asopa group, and no difference was observed (P = 0.105). Among the complications, no statistical difference was observed in the incidence of urethral stricture recurrence (P = 0.724) or glans dehiscence (P = 0.246) except for postoperative meatus stenosis (P = 0.020). However, the recurrence-free survival rate between the two procedures was significantly different (P = 0.016). Cox survival analysis showed that antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy use (P = 0.020), diabetes (P = 0.003), current/former smoking (P = 0.019), coronary heart disease (P < 0.001), and stricture length (P = 0.028) may lead to a higher hazard ratio of complications. Even so, these two techniques can still provide acceptable results with their own advantages in the surgical treatment of LS urethral strictures. The surgical alternative should be considered comprehensively according to the patient characteristics and surgeon preferences. Moreover, our results showed that antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy use, diabetes, coronary heart disease, current/former smoking, and stricture length may be contributing factors of complications. Therefore, patients with LS are advised to undergo early interventions for better therapeutic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Monti Pisani massif (Tuscany, central Italy) is an isolated mountain relief known for its rich geodiversity, including a remarkable palaeontological heritage from the Palaeozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras. The Palaeozoic record consists of exquisitely preserved plant remains and rarer invertebrates of Permo-Carboniferous age, which testify to extensive rainforests and large swamps that thrived in an alluvial system under a humid, (sub)tropical climate. In addition to invertebrate shells, invertebrate trace fossils and microbial structures, the Mesozoic record features a diverse Middle Triassic tetrapod ichnoassemblage consisting of tracks of lepidosauromorphs, archosaurs (among which are the earliest dinosauromorph fossils of Italy) and nonmammalian therapsids. These vertebrates lived in a subsiding costal setting that stretched across an expanding rift valley under a subarid climate. The Cenozoic record features abundant fossils of terrestrial vertebrates (including spectacular members of the mammalian megafauna) from karst deposits, testifying to the manifold inhabitants of the massif during the glacial and interglacial phases of the Late Pleistocene. Overall, this long-lasting fossil record remarkably demonstrates how much the Earth's environments have been changing through the Phanerozoic. The outstanding palaeontological heritage of the Monti Pisani area is in need of specific efforts of conservation and valorisation, especially with respect to the many palaeontological sites that punctuate the massif. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have exhibited tremendous potential in photovoltaic fields owing to their appreciable performance and simple fabrication. Nevertheless, device performances are still required to be further improved before commercial applications. As one‐dimensional materials, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been utilized to regulate stability and efficiency of PSCs because of their excellent chemical stability, flexibility, as well as tunable optical and electrical characteristics. In this review, we comprehensively summarize various functions of CNTs in PSCs, such as transparent electrodes, hole/electron‐transport layers, counter electrodes, perovskite additives, and interlayers. Additionally, applications of CNTs toward the advancement of flexible and semitransparent PSCs are provided. Finally, we preview the challenges and research interests of using CNTs in high‐efficiency and stable perovskite devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the dependence of the specific heat capacity (Cp) of activated carbon obtained by the activation of coke fines on temperature (T, K) and the dependence of electrical resistance (R, Om) on temperature (T, K). In the course of the work, it was found that in the temperature range of 298.15–448 K on the curve of dependence Cp − f(T) at 323 K there is a jump in heat capacity, associated with a phase transition of the second kind. Measurements of the temperature dependence of electrical resistance on temperature were also carried out, which showed that activated carbon in the temperature range of 293–343 K exhibits metallic conductivity, turning into a semiconductor in the temperature range of 343–463 K. The calculation of the band gap showed that the resulting activated carbon is a semiconductor with a moderately narrow band gap. The satisfactory agreement of the phase transition temperatures on the curves of the temperature dependences of the heat capacity on temperature (323 K) and on the curves of the dependences of electrical resistance and the relative permittivity on temperature (343 K) indicates the nature of this phase transition, i.e., at a temperature of 323 K, the change in heat capacity is associated with the transition from semiconductor conductivity to metallic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the synthesis of cyclic ketone‐fused pyrazoles via [3+2] annulation reaction between hydrazones and cyclic enones (five‐, six‐ and seven‐membered) catalyzed by Cu(II) under aerobic conditions. These compounds were further functionalized by reactions such as Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling, Heck coupling, and Aldol reaction to afford diverse molecular scaffolds in good yield, selectivity and functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are proving to be versatile nanomaterials that exhibit superior and attractive electrical, optical, chemical, physical, and mechanical properties. Different kinds of CNTs exist, and their associated properties have been actively explored and widely exploited from fundamental studies to practical applications. Obtaining high‐quality CNTs in large volumes is desirable, especially for scalable electronic, photonic, chemical, and mechanical systems. At present, abundant but random CNTs are synthesized by various growth methods including arc discharge, chemical vapor deposition, and molecular beam epitaxy. An economical way to secure pristine CNTs is to disperse the raw soot of CNTs in solutions, from which purified CNTs are collected via sorting methods. Individual CNTs are generally hydrophobic, not readily soluble, requiring an agent, known as a surfactant to facilitate effective dispersions. Furthermore, the combination of surfactants, polymers, DNA, and other additives can enhance the purity of specific types of CNTs in confidence dispersions. With highly‐pure CNTs, designated functional devices are built to demonstrate improved performance. This review surveys and highlights the essential roles and significant impacts of surfactants in dispersing and sorting CNTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research endeavours to study the growth of ultralong carbon nanotubes (UL-CNTs) from methane using diverse catalysts, namely FeCl3, bi-metallic Fe-Cu, Fe-Ni, and Fe-Co chlorides. Aqueous catalyst solutions were evenly dispersed on silica substrates and grown at 950 °C in the presence of hydrogen via a horizontal chemical vapour deposition (CVD) furnace. The samples underwent characterisation by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and optical microscopy to identify the quality of CNTs and enumerate individual UL-CNTs. Our findings revealed that FeCl3, as a mono-metallic catalyst, generated the longest UL-CNTs, which measured 1.32 cm, followed by Fe-Cu (0.85 cm), Fe-Co (0.7 cm), and Fe-Ni (0.6 cm), respectively. The G/D ratio (graphene to defects) from the Raman spectroscopy was the highest with the FeCl3 catalyst (3.09), followed by Fe-Cu (2.79), Fe-Co catalyst (2.13), and Fe-Ni (2.52). It indicates that the mono-iron-based catalyst also produces the highest purity CNTs. Moreover, this study scrutinises the vapour-liquid-solid (VLS) model for CNT growth and the impact of carbide formation as a precursor to CNT growth. Our research findings indicate that forming iron carbide (Fe3C) is a crucial transition phase for amorphous carbon transformation to CNTs. Notably, the iron catalyst generated the longest and densest CNTs relative to other iron-based bi-metallic catalysts, which is consistent with the temperature of carbide formation in the mono-metallic system. From correlations made using the phase diagram with carbon, we conclude that CNT growth is favoured because of increased carbon solubility within the mono-metallic catalyst compared to the bi-metallic catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introducing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) capable of anchoring on nanofibers establishes new possibilities in many applications, such as lithium–sulfur batteries and laminated composites. Direct growth and attachment of CNTs eliminate dispersion challenges such as detachment or transfer of CNTs onto another medium and damage to CNTs, making them inadequate for practical applications. This study facilitated the direct growth of conductive CNTs on curved, high-temperature resistant polymeric polybenzimidazole (PBI) nanofiber surfaces via chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Control of CVD process parameters, including nucleation and growth times (10 or 15 min) and catalyst concentration (1 or 10 mM) at 600 °C resulted in the growth of radially oriented CNTs on PBI nanofiber surfaces and provided morphology-dominated behavior both on physical and electrical properties. Morphological analyses showed that optimizing catalyst concentration (10 mM) and CVD process parameters, including nucleation (15 min) and growth times (10 min and 15 min), yielded uniform CNT coverage and conformity. A systematic exploration of mesoscopic morphologies revealed a strong correlation between physical parameters such as CNT array lengths and electrical conductivity, up to 0.039 ± 0.004 S/cm. The proposed CNT growth method could offer in situ structural tunability to respond to application-related requirements from energy storage to the rate capability of lithium-based batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapacitors have been attracting a remarkable research interest due to their outstanding intrinsic properties, such as high electrical response, great durability, and a wide range of operating temperature and voltage. In this work, the synthesis and evaluation of the electrochemical performances of graphene oxide doped with Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3@GO) and reduced graphene oxide doped with Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3@rGO) without any binder material were carried out using a low concentration (1.0 M) of KOH electrolyte. The solvothermal method of nanomaterial synthesis was employed. The produced nanomaterial was studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and electrochemical characterizations. An improved performance was recorded by the electrode made of Bi2O3@rGO, which achieved 560 Fg−1 specific capacitance at 5 mVs−1 scan rate; 28 Whkg−1 and 17 kWkg−1 energy and power densities, respectively. The electrode also retained 99% of its capacitance after 3000 galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This guideline is an update to the 2014 edition of the European guideline for the management of balanoposthitis. Balanoposthitis describes inflammation of the glans penis and prepuce and is caused by a range of disparate conditions including infection, dermatoses and premalignancy. Objective: The main objectives of this guideline are to aid recognition of the symptoms and signs and complications of penile skin conditions and to offer recommendations on the diagnostic tests and treatment for a selected group of these conditions. Methods: The previous guideline was updated following a literature review and priority was given to randomized controlled trial and systematic review evidence. Results: The updated guideline includes amended management for infective balanitis to provide clear guidance for Group A streptococcal infections, management of on going Lichen sclerosus (to include circumcision and supportive management to reduce the recurrence of genital herpes and warts), additional regimens for Zoonoid change, use of calcineurin inhibitors in management and risk of premalignancy and change of nomenclaturefrom Premalignant conditions to Penile Intraepithelial neoplasia (PeIN). Conclusion: Balanoposthitis has a widerange of causes high quality evidence specific to the management of penile disease is not available for all the conditions described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stricture urethra is generally limited to anterior urethra. At present, there are only a few studies which focus exclusively on the histopathology of stricture urethra disease. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to assess the urethral stricture pathology specimens for determining the severity of chronic inflammation and characteristics of stricture, demographics, and patient-reported outcome measures in patients with inflammatory and non-inflammatory strictures. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective and observational study done on 60 male patients of anterior urethral stricture disease who underwent excision biopsy of stricture during urethroplasty. Pre-operative urinary symptoms assessment was done with a questionnaire provided to all patients and data maintained to assess patient-reported outcomes in inflammatory and non-inflammatory stricture urethra. Cohorts comprising strictures with no inflammation, mild, and moderate to severe inflammation were developed and stricture, the patient characteristics were compared. Results: In a total of 60 histopathological stricture specimens, there was no inflammation in 40%, mild and moderate inflammation was in 28% and 3.3%, respectively. Lichen sclerosis-related strictures had moderate to severe inflammation and most of the strictures were in bulbar urethra (51.6%). Patients with BXO changes showed more inflammation. In patients with inflammatory strictures, hesitancy, straining, and stream were statistically more compared to non-inflammatory strictures. Idiopathic is the most predominant etiology for stricture which showed no inflammation. Conclusion: Histopathological analysis of urethral stricture showed significant tissue heterogeneity in clinically similar strictures. Chronic inflammation was commonly found in stricture specimens indicating active antigen presentation for underlying pathology and patients with inflammatory strictures reported worse health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Management of urethral stricture related to lichen sclerosus (LS) is now gradually changing from surgical to nonsurgical due to availability of anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors. We determined the clinical impact of these agents in such patients on outpatient department basis in terms of improvement in symptoms on International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), external skin appearance, and maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax). Materials and Methods: Eighty patients of meatal stenosis and penile urethral stricture with histopathologically proven LS were divided into two groups, and clinical and predetermined parameters such as Qmax, IPSS, and changes in external appearance were compared between these groups after 3 months of topical and intraurethral application of clobetasol and tacrolimus with self-calibration. Results: A significant intragroup difference was noted in IPSS (P < 0.001) as well as Qmax (P < 0.001); postintervention intergroup difference in IPSS was not significant (P = 0.94) and however postintervention intergroup difference in Qmax was significant in favor of clobetasol (P = 0.007). A significantly increased number of additional procedures were done in the group receiving intraurethral tacrolimus (P = 0.0473) with significantly less number of skin complication in the group with topically applied clobetasol (P = 0.003). Conclusion: Though both clobetasol and tacrolimus, improved symptom score, Qmax and local external appearance yet topical and intra-urethral clobetasol application via urethral self calibration seems to be better option for lichen sclerosus related urethral stricture in terms cost and local complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible p–n thermoelectric generator (TEG) technology has rapidly advanced with power enhancement and size reduction. To achieve a stable power supply and highly efficient energy conversion, absolute chemical stability of n‐type materials is essential to ensuring large temperature differences between device terminals and ambient stability. With the aim of improving the long‐term stability of the n‐type operation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in air and water, this study uses cationic surfactants, such as octylene‐1,8‐bis(dimethyldodecylammonium bromide) (12–8–12), a gemini surfactant, to stabilize the nanotubes in a coating, which retains the n‐doped state for more than 28 days after exposure to air and water in experiments. TEGs with 10 p–n units of 12–8–12/CNT (n‐type) and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate/CNT (p‐type) layers are manufactured, and their water stability is evaluated. The initial maximum output of 16.1 µW (75 K temperature difference) is retained after water immersion for 40 days without using a sealant to prevent TEG module degradation. The excellent stability of these CNT‐based TEGs makes them suitable for underwater applications, such as battery‐free health monitoring and information gathering systems, and facilitates the development of soft electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To identify prognostic factors of failure in patients undergoing perineal urethrostomy (PU) with Blandy technique, with inverted U-shaped perineal flap. Methods: This is a retrospective study of PU of non-oncological causes (2001–2017). Data of age, BMI, history of diabetes mellitus, etiology of urethral stricture, type of stricture, previous surgeries, dilatation and suprapubic catheter were collected. Failure was defined as the need for any instrumentation after surgery. Variables were analyzed by Cox regression and Kaplan–Meier curves were used for survival analysis. Results: A total of 115 PU were performed. Median age was 61 years (IQR 53–68) and BMI 27.9 (IQR 25–30.9). The most frequent etiologies were: lichen sclerosus (30.4%), iatrogenic (27%), and idiopathic (25.7%). 62.6% had panurethral stricture. There were no complications in 73%. Clavien I complications occurred in 25.2%, Clavien II in 0.9% and Clavien IVa in 0.9%. The overall success rate was 51.3% with a median follow-up of 71 months. In the last 8 years, it was 75%. In the multivariate analysis, we found that age (p = 0.01), BMI (p = 0.01), date of surgery (p = 0.01), and suprapubic catheter (p = 0.003) were predictive variables. The voiding satisfaction rate was 88.7%. Conclusions: PU with Blandy technique is a surgery with low morbidity. During the entire study period, it had a failure rate of 48.7% but the failure rate decreased to 25% over the last 8 years. Age, BMI, date of surgery and suprapubic catheter are the most important prognostic factor of failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Objectives. Lichen sclerosus (LSc) is a chronic inflammatory process of the skin characterized by its unique histological features. It affects men and women of all ages, mainly in the anogenital area. The etiologies and exact pathophysiology are not well-known; however, LSc can be considered a precursor to male genital squamous cell carcinoma. We aim, through this case-control study, to potentially associate genital LSc with risk factors and certain patient characteristics in Lebanese adult males. Materials and Methods. A nested case-control study design was chosen. Subjects enrolled were adult male patients who had a circumcision between January 2010 and December 2020 at our university hospital, with a confirmed LSc diagnosis on pathology. Cases were matched with controls by age with a ratio of 1 : 1, all of whom were circumcised and had a negative pathology report. Data collection consisted of sociodemographic, behavioral, and past medical and familial history characteristics. Results. A total of 94 patients were enrolled. The mean age was 49.81 (±22.92) in the group of men with LSc. No significant differences in sociodemographic characteristics (age and BMI) were found between the two compared groups. Smoking cannot predict LSc as opposed to alcohol consumption, which we found to be a protective factor against the appearance of LSc (p = 0.027). Men with LSc had significantly higher rates of diabetes (p = 0.021) and hypertension (p = 0.004). No associations were found between LSc and the presenting chief complaints, family history of LSc, and past penile trauma. Conclusion. In this study, we were able to compare multiple variables between 47 circumcised patients diagnosed with LSc and a control group. We found that LSc patients showed higher rates of diabetes and hypertension. A potential protective effect of alcohol consumption is to be explored in future projects with bigger sample sizes and higher statistical powers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Executing complex behaviors requires precise control of muscle activity. Our understanding of how the nervous system learns and controls motor skills relies on recording electromyographic (EMG) signals from multiple muscles that are engaged in the motor task. Despite recent advances in tools for monitoring and manipulating neural activity, methods for recording in situ spiking activity in muscle fibers have changed little in recent decades. Here, we introduce a novel experimental approach to recording high-resolution EMG signals using parylene-coated carbon nanotube fibers (CNTFs). These fibers are fabricated via a wet spinning process and twisted together to create a bipolar electrode. Single CNTFs are strong, extremely flexible, small in diameter (14-24 im), and have low interface impedance. We present two designs to build bipolar electrode arrays that, due to the small size of CNTF, lead to high spatial resolution EMG recordings. To test the EMG arrays, we recorded the activity of small (4 mm length) vocal muscles in songbirds in an acute setting. CNTF arrays were more flexible and yielded multiunit/bulk EMG recordings with higher SNR compared with stainless steel wire electrodes. Furthermore, we were able to record single-unit recordings not previously reported in these small muscles. CNTF electrodes are therefore well-suited for high-resolution EMG recording in acute settings, and we present both opportunities and challenges for their application in long-term chronic recordings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last three decades, radiopharmaceuticals have proven their effectiveness for cancer diagnosis and therapy. In parallel, the advances in nanotechnology have fueled a plethora of applications in biology and medicine. A convergence of these disciplines has emerged more recently with the advent of nanotechnology-aided radiopharmaceuticals. Capitalizing on the unique physical and functional properties of nanoparticles, radiolabeled nanomaterials or nano-radiopharmaceuticals have the potential to enhance imaging and therapy of human diseases. This article provides an overview of various radionuclides used in diagnostic, therapeutic, and theranostic applications, radionuclide production through different techniques, conventional radionuclide delivery systems, and advancements in the delivery systems for nanomaterials. The review also provides insights into fundamental concepts necessary to improve currently available radionuclide agents and formulate new nano-radiopharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To optimize results reporting after penile cancer (PC) surgery, we proposed a Tetrafecta and assessed its ability to predict overall survival (OS) probabilities. Methods: A purpose-built multicenter, multi-national database was queried for stage I–IIIB PC, requiring inguinal lymphadenectomy (ILND), from 2015 onwards. Kaplan–Meier (KM) method assessed differences in OS between patients achieving Tetrafecta or not. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses identified its predictors. Results: A total of 154 patients were included in the analysis. The 45 patients (29%) that achieved the Tetrafecta were younger (59 vs. 62 years; p = 0.01) and presented with fewer comorbidities (ASA score ≥ 3: 0% vs. 24%; p < 0.001). Although indicated, ILND was omitted in 8 cases (5%), while in 16, a modified template was properly used. Although median LNs yield was 17 (IQR: 11–27), 35% of the patients had <7 nodes retrieved from the groin. At Kaplan–Maier analysis, the Tetrafecta cohort displayed significantly higher OS probabilities (Log Rank = 0.01). Uni- and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified age as the only independent predictor of Tetrafecta achievement (OR: 0.97; 95%CI: 0.94–0.99; p = 0.04). Conclusions: Our Tetrafecta is the first combined outcome to comprehensively report results after PC surgery. It is widely applicable, based on standardized and reproducible variables and it predicts all-cause mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease, which commonly involves anogenital region. It may cause significant functional and cosmetic problems and may show malignant transformation. Treatment modalities change according to the age of the patient, severity and duration of the lesions. In this review, the clinically important aspects of anogential LS and its treatment will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]