Epidermal Thickness Research Articles

The first morphological and molecular identification of Quilonia sp. (Nematoda: Strongylidae) from wild Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) in China.

The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) is classified as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. In China, approximately 300 individuals remain in the wild. Parasitic infections are significant concerns both human and animal medicine, especially within wildlife. However, there are currently no photomicrographs and genetic data available for parasites from wild Asian elephants in China. In order to preliminarily investigate parasitic infections of the wild Asian elephants in China, we collected faecal samples from a wild, vagrant male elephant for this study. Here, we provided photomicrographs with larval Quilonia sp.. Concurrently, the partial ITS (internal transcribed spacer) gene of Quilonia sp. was cloned, sequenced using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) technique, and subjected to bioinformatic analysis. Morphological identification of Quilonia sp. was conducted, revealing a rod-like anterior structure, short esophagus, tapered tail, thick cuticle, and a length exceeding 500μm. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that BND-ITS (ITS gene of the specimen) belongs to the Quilonia sp.. The present study also will enhance the current understanding of the taxonomy of Quilonia sp., support long-term health monitoring of Asian elephants in China, and contribute to future genomic studies.

Corydalis Tuber Extract Alleviates Atopic Dermatitis: Transcriptomics-Based Mechanism Prediction and In Vitro/In Vivo Studies

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by recurrent eczema and chronic itching, affecting a significant portion of the global population. This study investigated the effects of Corydalis Tuber 70% ethanol extract (CTE) on tumor necrosis factor-α- and interferon-γ (TI)-stimulated human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and a house dust mite-induced AD mouse model, elucidating its mechanism via transcriptome analysis. A total of 13 compounds, including columbamine, corydaline, dehydrocorydaline, and glaucine, were identified in CTE using ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. CTE downregulated pathways related to cytokine signaling and chemokine receptors in TI-stimulated HaCaT cells. It significantly inhibited C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)5, CCL17, and CCL22 levels by blocking the Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells pathways. In the AD mouse model, topical CTE significantly decreased dermatitis scores, epidermal thickening, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Plasma levels of histamine, immunoglobulin E, CCL17, CCL22, corticosterone, and cortisol were reduced. Lesions showed decreased thymic stromal lymphopoietin, CD4+ T cells, interleukin-4, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression. The findings demonstrate that CTE alleviates AD by modulating inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and chemokines, reducing inflammatory cell infiltration, and alleviating stress-related factors.

Fruit Cuticle Thickness and Anatomical Changes in Pedicel Xylem Vessels Influence Fruit Transpiration and Calcium Accumulation in Cranberry Fruit.

Ca is a key nutrient for fruit quality due to its role in bonding with pectin in the cell wall, providing strength through cell-to-cell adhesion, thus increasing fruit firmness and extending post-harvest life. However, Ca accumulation is mostly limited to the initial stages of fruit development due to anatomical and physiological changes that occur as fruits develop. The objective of this study was to evaluate fruit transpiration, cuticle thickness, and pedicel vessel changes during cranberry fruit development and the effect these parameters might have on Ca translocation. 'Stevens' cranberry fruits were collected weekly, starting seven days after full bloom (DAFB) until 70 DAFB. For each collection date, fruit transpiration was evaluated in the field, and samples were taken to analyze total fruit Ca content, stomata density, cuticle thickness, pedicel anatomical changes, and xylem functionality. Ca accumulation in the fruit exhibited a sigmoidal curve, beginning at 0.04 mg per berry at 7 DAFB, increasing to a maximum of 0.1 mg per berry at 28 DAFB, and remaining constant until harvest (70 DAFB). Fruit Ca accumulation was mostly explained by fruit transpiration, which exhibited a similar sigmoidal pattern. The rapid decline in fruit transpiration was largely modulated by increases in cuticle thickness, as well as anatomical changes in the pedicel xylem, thereby reducing the capacity to transport water and nutrients into the fruit. Thus, this research could help cranberry growers maximize fruit Ca content by prioritizing fertilization during the early stages of fruit development.

Variations in Leaf Functional Traits of Pseudotsuga sinensis Across Forests With Varying Levels of Rocky Desertification.

Pseudotsuga sinensis is a distinctive plant species endemic to China, predominantly found in areas affected by varying degrees of rocky desertification. Despite its wide distribution, the physiological mechanisms underlying its adaptation to harsh environments remain unclear. In this study, we investigated 16 leaf traits, including the morphological, anatomical, and chemical characteristics of the leaves of P. sinensis across forests with mild, moderate, severe, and extremely severe rocky desertification to elucidate the adaptive strategies of P. sinensis in response to arid conditions and nutrient-poor soils. Our findings revealed that P. sinensis leaves from forests with mild and moderate rocky desertification exhibited higher specific leaf area (SLA) and magnesium concentrations but lower leaf dry matter content (LDMC), abaxial epidermis thickness, and adaxial epidermis thickness than in those from forests with severe and extremely severe desertification. Principal component analysis indicated that forests with mild to moderate desertification employ resource acquisition strategies characterized by greater SLA and magnesium concentrations than those in forests with severe and extremely severe desertification. In contrast, forests with severe to extremely severe desertification adopted resource-conserving strategies, as evidenced by higher LDMC, epidermal thickness, and calcium concentrations than those in forests with mild to moderate desertification. The N:P ratio of P. sinensis across all desertification levels was consistently below 14, suggesting nitrogen limitation in P. sinensis in regions with rocky desertification. Thus, these results provide valuable reference for guiding vegetation restoration under degraded habitats.

Knockdown of GSDMD inhibits pyroptosis in psoriasis by blocking the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease regulated by autoimmunity, and pyroptosis plays an important role in this condition. This research sought to examine the function and potential molecular pathway of Gasdermin D (GSDMD) in psoriasis. GSDMD expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in biopsied skin tissues from patients with psoriasis. Pyroptosis-related genes and inflammatory factors were quantified using qRT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. HaCaT cells were treated with M5 cytokines to develop an in vitro psoriasis model, while imiquimod (IMQ) was administered to construct an in vivo psoriasis model. To counteract the inhibition of the NOD-like receptor (NLR) pathway caused by GSDMD knockdown, the pathway activator M-TriDAP was employed. In the lesional skin tissues of patients with psoriasis, GSDMD expression was highly expressed. The levels of pro-pyroptosis mediators were increased, whereas the level of anti-inflammatory factor was lowered. GSDMD knockdown and disulfiram treatment inhibited pyroptosis and promoted apoptosis in M5-induced HaCaT cells. In the IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mouse model, GSDMD knockdown suppressed pyroptosis and improved skin lesion severity, alleviating erythema, epidermal thickness, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Mechanistically, GSDMD knockdown inhibited the NLR pathway, accompanied by reduced protein levels of NLRP3, NOD1, NOD2, and PYCARD. NLR pathway activator, M-TriDAP treatment significantly reversed the effects of GSDMD knockdown on psoriasis progression. Knockdown of GSDMD inhibits pyroptosis in psoriasis by blocking the NLR signaling pathway, presenting a novel potential strategy for psoriasis treatment.

Aquatic plant Myriophyllum spicatum displays contrasting morphological, photosynthetic, and transcriptomic responses between its aquatic and terrestrial morphotypes.

Myriophyllum spicatum, a semi-aquatic plant, can develop heterophylly by forming both submerged and aerial leaves to adapt to water level variations in its habitat. The aerial leaves exhibit shorter and fewer lobes, but thicker cuticle and developed stomata than submerged leaves. The heterophylly exhibited by M. spicatum could be controlled by hormones including abscisic acid, indole-3-acetic acid, and Jasmonic acid, as their levels were consistently higher in aerial leaves than in submerged leaves. Genes responsible for the formation of cuticle and stomata exhibited elevated expression in the aerial leaves, offering a molecular explanation for their structural adaptations to terrestrial environment. Moreover, aerial leaves exhibited greater resistance to intense light, while submerged leaves demonstrated a pronounced capacity of utilizing HCO3- for photosynthesis. Differential gene expression patterns pertaining to photosynthesis, carotenoid production, and HCO3- utilization elucidated the molecular mechanisms driving M. spicatum's photosynthetic adaptations to aquatic and terrestrial environment. In conclusion, the ability of M. spicatum to withstand changing water levels can be linked to its adaptable phenotype and the genetic characteristics inherited from its terrestrial ancestors, both of which are governed by hormonal regulation. These features may allow M. spicatum to outcompete other macrophytes that are more sensitive to water level fluctuations in their growing surroundings.

Developmental changes of skin quality from breast, back, and thigh of Pekin ducks from 1 to 6 weeks of age.

Good skin quality not only improved carcass quality but also increased consumer demand for fresh poultry meat. This study aimed to investigate the developmental changes in skin growth and quality of Pekin ducks during 1-6 weeks of age. The skin samples were collected from the breast, back, and thigh tissues of six male ducks at the end of each week. The skin strength, skin thickness, and collagen content as well as the related gene expressions were determined for the evaluation of skin quality. The results showed that the body weight, absolute skin weight, areas, and density, epidermal and dermal thickness (breast and thigh), shearing force, piercing force (back and thigh), and collagen content in Pekin ducks increased linearly and quadratically with age, reaching a plateau at 5-6 weeks of age (P < 0.05). The mRNA expressions of IGF-1 and FGFR1 related to cell proliferation were highest in breast, back, and thigh of ducks at 3 weeks of age, while the mRNA expression of FGF14 and EGF associated with collagen synthesis reached maximum values at 5 weeks of age. Additionally, the mRNA expressions of IGF1R and FGFR2 were upregulated in breast and thigh skins of ducks at 1 week old and in back skin of ducks at 3 weeks old compared with birds at other weeks old (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the developmental pattern of skin growth and structure of Pekin ducks in a linear manner with increased age. The skin quality was increased in a quadratic manner, which was associated with the changes in mRNA expression of target genes related to cell proliferation and collagen synthesis.

Gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel encapsulating molybdenum-inspired macrophage-derived exosomes accelerates wound healing via immune regulation and angiogenesis.

Clinically, abnormal or delayed wound healing leads to functional disorders and disfiguring scars. A well-vascularized environment and an anti-inflammatory immune state are crucial during the healing process. Molybdenum (Mo) is an essential element for the human body in modulating metabolism, immune function and tissue repair. In this study, we found that Mo-inspired macrophages significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, tube formation, and the expression of angiogenic factors (VEGF, PDGF, CD31) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We then successfully isolated and characterized Mo-inspired macrophage-derived exosomes (Mo-Exo) and demonstrated their internalization by HUVECs, leading to enhanced proliferation, migration, tube formation, and angiogenic factor expression. Moreover, we proved that Mo-Exo could promote the polarization of macrophages from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. In terms of application, Mo-Exo encapsulated gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel (GelMA) exhibited notable potential in wound healing in rat skin defects, as evidenced by the reduced wound area and increased epidermal thickness observed in H&E and Masson's staining. Mechanically, Mo-Exo promoted angiogenesis through the activation of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In general, this research introduced a novel immunoregulatory and pro-angiogenic exosome hydrogel for clinical wound healing.

Co-assembled supramolecular hydrogel of asiaticoside and Panax notoginseng saponins for enhanced wound healing.

Self-assembling natural drug hydrogels have emerged as promising biomaterials for scalable and customizable drug delivery systems attributed to their inherent biocompatibility and biodegradability. Asiaticoside (AS), a bioactive compound derived from Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., is known for its antioxidant, antifibrotic, and anti-inflammatory properties, primarily accelerating wound healing through the promotion of collagen synthesis. However, its low water solubility leads to poor transdermal absorption and reduced bioavailability when applied topically. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS), active compounds derived from the stems of Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen, exhibit amphiphilic and surfactant properties, rendering them effective stabilizers. Our research has demonstrated that the co-assembly of AS and PNS forms a hydrogel, termed AS&PNS hydrogel, which significantly enhances wound healing by reducing interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and promoting the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Treatment with AS&PNS hydrogel also tended to normalize epidermal thickness and improve collagen fiber organization at the wound site. This novel hydrogel material presents a straightforward and effective approach to managing skin wounds.

Histological Comparison of Lipofilling and Hyaluronic Acid Filler Injection 30 Days after Simulation in Rats.

A histological comparison of lipofilling and hyaluronic acid filler injection was performed in rats. Studies at the histological level showed that, compared with hyaluronic acid filler injection, autologous fat grafting led to a more uniform distribution of adipose tissue at 30 days after treatment and a decrease in the area of sebaceous glands. Compared with lipofilling, the hyaluronic acid filler facilitated an increase in epidermis thickness because the granular layer and dermis grew thicker in addition to the filler injected into the subcutaneous space.

PD-L1-CD80 interactions are required for intracellular signaling necessary for dendritic cell migration.

Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) interactions are targets for immunotherapies aimed to reinvigorate T cell function. Recently, it was documented that PD-L1 regulates dendritic cell (DC) migration through intracellular signaling events. In this study, we find that both preclinical murine and clinically available human PD-L1 antibodies limit DC migration. We show that cis interactions between PD-L1 and CD80 are critical for promoting migration and define specific regions within these proteins necessary for migration. Furthermore, we demonstrate that αPD-L1 significantly impedes DC migration in a B16 melanoma tumor model. Last, we outline how blocking cis PD-L1:CD80 interactions or mutation of the intracellular domain of PD-L1, in an imiquimod-induced murine model of psoriasis, limits DC migration to the lymph node, decreases interleukin-17 production by CD4+ T cells in the lymph node, and reduces epidermal thickening. Therefore, PD-L1 and CD80 interactions are important regulators of DC migration to the draining lymph node.

ZBP1-mediated PANoptosis is a crucial lethal form in diverse keratinocyte death modalities in UVB-induced skin injury

UVB irradiation induces diverse modalities of regulatory cell death in keratinocytes. Recently, the pattern of coexistence of pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis has been termed PANoptosis; however, whether PANoptosis occurs in keratinocytes in UVB-induced skin injury remains unclear. We observed that the key molecules of GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, which are N-terminal GSDMD, cleaved caspase-3/PARP, and phosphorylated MLKL, respectively, were elevated in keratinocytes of UVB-challenged mice and human skin tissue. Through keratinocyte-specific gene knockout or using corresponding inhibitors, we found that individual inhibition of GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis, caspase-3-mediated apoptosis, or MLKL-mediated necroptosis did not reduce the overall level of keratinocyte death after UVB exposure, and that the other two pathways maintained the activation. However, when the PANoptosome sensor ZBP1 was knocked out, keratinocyte death was reduced and epidermal thickening was alleviated in UVB-challenged mice. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that UVB irradiation induces ZBP1-mediated PANoptosis in keratinocytes, which is a crucial lethal form in diverse keratinocyte death modalities in UVB-induced skin injury. The above findings provide a new insight on the complexity of regulated cell death modalities in keratinocytes exposed to UV irradiation.

Host range of the oothecal parasitoid Aprostocetus hagenowii (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae).

Aprostocetus hagenowii (Ratzburg) is a generalist parasitoid of cockroach (Blattodea) oothecae. Previous studies examining the host range of A. hagenowii have largely focused on cockroaches of economic and medical importance, which represent a minority of species in an order filled with species of diverse morphology, behavior, and ecology. The aim of this study was to expand the known host range of A. hagenowii with emphasis on nonpest as well as pest species from 3 cockroach families (Blattidae, Corydiidae, and Ectobiidae). Previously recorded host species were also reexamined. Oothecae from 17 cockroach species were exposed to A. hagenowii. Three new host species were recorded: Blatta lateralis (Walker) (Blattidae), Neostylopyga propinqua (Shelford) (Blattidae), and Parcoblatta fulvescens (Saussure and Zehntner) (Ectobiidae). Among the reexamined host species Periplaneta australasiae (Fab.) (Blattidae), Blatta orientalis L. (Blattidae), and Neostylopyga rhombifolia (Stoll) (Blattidae) were successfully parasitized. The cuticle thicknesses of 7 cockroach species' oothecae were also investigated. There were significant differences [Kruskal-Wallis: each zone (below keel, side, and bottom) measured P < 0.001] in cuticle thickness among the species measured. Polyphaga sassurei (Dohrn) (Corydiidae) and Eurycotis floridana (Walker) (Blattidae) had the thickest cuticles (each zone >0.09 mm) and Blattella germanica (L.) (Ectobiidae) had the thinnest (each zone <0.03 mm). However, the mean A. hagenowii ovipositor length (0.92 mm ± 0.01 mm) far exceeded the thickest oothecae measured. Oothecal cuticle thickness alone was not observed to determine the host suitability of each tested cockroach species for A. hagenowii.

Quantitative Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Erbium Glass Laser Therapy for Acne Scars

Background: Acne scarring presents a significant esthetic and psychological concern, commonly classified into atrophic and hypertrophic types. Effectively managing these lesions often involves the use of therapeutic strategies such as laser treatments, dermabrasion, and fillers. This study investigates the efficacy of 1550 nm erbium glass laser therapy in the treatment of atrophic acne scars through a quantitative assessment. Material and Methods: Participants with mild to moderate atrophic acne scars received two sessions of fractional erbium glass laser therapy at one-month intervals. Skin density and epidermal thickness were measured using a high-frequency ultrasound device (DUB SkinScanner), while the Antera 3D imaging system facilitated a comprehensive analysis of skin parameters, including texture, volumetric depressions, and pigmentation. Results: The use of this therapy led to significant improvements across multiple parameters. Skin density and epidermal thickness increased. Significant reductions were observed in fold depth, pore volume, and depression volume, indicating enhanced smoothness and minimized scar appearance. Improvements in texture roughness and pigmentation contributed to a visually coherent skin surface. Conclusions: Fractional erbium glass laser therapy effectively ameliorates the appearance of atrophic acne scars by increasing skin density, reducing dermal depressions, and improving texture and pigmentation uniformity. The Antera 3D system and high-frequency ultrasound device demonstrated high efficacy in capturing subtle changes, supporting its value in clinical applications for optimizing treatment parameters.

Fluoxetine exerts anti-proliferative effect in human epidermal keratinocytes.

We have recently shown that fluoxetine (FX) suppressed polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid-induced inflammatory response and endothelin release in human epidermal keratinocytes, via the indirect inhibition of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-pathway. Because PI3K-signaling is a positive regulator of the proliferation, in the current, highly focused follow-up study, we assessed the effects of FX (14 µM) on the proliferation and differentiation of human epidermal keratinocytes. We found that FX exerted anti-proliferative actions in 2D cultures (HaCaT and primary human epidermal keratinocytes [NHEKs]; 48- and 72-h; CyQUANT-assay) as well as in 3D reconstructed epidermal equivalents (48-h; Ki-67 immunohistochemistry). Importantly, FX did not influence epidermal thickness (hematoxylin-eosin staining), and it did not have a major impact on the differentiation-associated alteration of the gene expression pattern (24-h treatments; RNA-Seq). Moreover, neither keratin (K)-1, nor K10 expression was altered by FX in NHEKs (RT-qPCR) or in 3D epidermal equivalents (semi-quantitative immunohistomorphometry). FX did not influence differentiation-induced up-regulation of occludin (RT-qPCR; NHEKs), and did not alter differentiation-associated barrier forming capacity of epidermal keratinocytes (electrical impedance; Lucifer Yellow penetration assay). Our data indicate that, besides the previously reported combined anti-inflammatory and putative anti-pruritic effects, FX may also suppress proliferation of human epidermal keratinocytes without impairing their differentiation and barrier-forming capacity.

Characterization of Cutaneous Radiation Syndrome in a Mouse Model Using [18F]F- Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography.

Ionizing radiation on the skin has the potential to cause various sequelae affecting quality of life and even leading to death due to multi-system failure. The development of radiation dermatitis is attributed to oxidative damage to the skin's basal layer and alterations in immune response, leading to inflammation. Past studies have shown that [18F]F-2-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography ([18F]F-FDG PET/CT) can be used effectively for the detection of inflammatory activity, especially in conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, and early atherosclerosis. Since currently there are no specific tests for radiation dermatitis, our study aimed to validate whether radiation dermatitis induced in mice can be accurately visualized and measured using [18F]F-FDG PET/CT. We induced cutaneous radiation syndrome in BALB/c mice with different radiation absorbed doses and monitored symptom development through photography, PET imaging, and histopathology, marking the first attempt at non-invasively quantifying radiation dermatitis effects at the molecular level using PET imaging. Our results showed that there were progressive changes in the dorsal skin of irradiated mice, with notable differences between those exposed to varying doses of radiation. Erythema, epilation, and desquamation were more pronounced in mice exposed to lower doses (25 Gy and 35 Gy) than at 45 Gy; however, by the third week, severe skin deterioration, including ulceration and dermal atrophy, was evident in mice irradiated with 35 Gy and 45 Gy. PET/CT imaging revealed increased [18F]F-FDG uptake in the irradiated dorsal skin area of all mice compared to controls, with more pronounced avidity for the lesion in the 25 Gy and 35 Gy than the 45 Gy. Comparison of tissue-normalized SUVMax values showed that both the 25 Gy and 35 Gy mice exhibited fourfold [18F]F-FDG uptake in the dorsal skin compared to controls, while a twofold uptake was seen at 45 Gy, thus indicating substantial metabolic changes in the dorsal skin induced by radiation exposure. Histopathological analyses correlated with the above findings, demonstrating generalized hypertrophy and epidermal thickening in all irradiated mice compared to controls, with thicker epidermis observed with higher radiation doses and increased destruction of microvasculature. In conclusion, PET/CT emerges as a successful tool for imaging cutaneous radiation syndrome, with the observed dermal changes in irradiated mice closely aligning with metabolic alterations of the affected area.

Study on the Effect of Bee Venom and Its Main Component Melittin in Delaying Skin Aging in Mice.

Bee venom (BV) and its main compound melittin (MLT) have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activities; however, very little research has been conducted on their effects on skin aging. In this study, a mouse skin aging model induced by D-galactose was constructed via subcutaneous injection into the scruff of the neck, and different doses of BV and MLT were used as interventions. The anti-aging effects and mechanisms of BV and MLT were explored by detecting the skin morphology and structure, and anti-aging-related factors and performing non-targeted metabolomics of mice. BV and MLT improved dermal and epidermal thickness, boosted the collagen fiber content, increased hydroxyproline and hyaluronic acid levels, and enhanced transcript-level expression of IL-10, Col1a1, and Col3a1, while decreasing that of IL-1β. Metabolomic analysis showed that BV and MLT regulated the levels of some metabolites (compared to those in the skin aging control). BV effectively alleviated skin aging by regulating the pentose phosphate pathway, and pathways associated with carbon, galactose, and β-alanine metabolism, whereas MLT regulated pathways related to lipid metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, and atherosclerosis. This study highlights the potential applicability of BV and MLT in skin aging treatments and cosmetic products.

Merged Red and NIR Light Sources for Photobiomodulation Therapy in Diabetic Wound Healing.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is considered an effective and safe therapeutic modality in supporting the treatment of complications from a global pandemic-diabetes. In this study, PBM therapy is investigated to accelerate wound healing in diabetic mice (DM), under the combined biological effects of red light from a red organic light-emitting diode (ROLED) and near-infrared (NIR) light from an NIR conversion film (NCF) with dispersed CuInS2/ZnS quantum dots (QDs). The QD concentration and the NCF structure were optimized to maximize the optical properties and mechanical stability. A merged red/NIR device (MRND) was produced by integrating the optimized NCF and ROLED for PBM therapy. As a result of irradiating DM with MRND at a dose of 2 J/cm2, after 10 days, the wounds recovered three times faster than DM without MRND. Additionally, MRND light not only restored the epidermal thickness to normal but also significantly reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The experimental results show that the proposed PBM therapy has the potential to improve the quality of life of diabetic patients by helping them with rapid wound healing.

Development of biocompatible mesoporous silica materials for enhanced UV protection

AbstractA new class of mesoporous silica (MPS)‐based biocompatible ultraviolet (UV) protective materials (1–4) has been prepared and characterized. These materials, which include avobenzone (AV)‐encapsulated MPS, were modified with biphenyl‐4‐triethoxysilane and polyethylene glycol (PEG200). Their photostability was tested under a sun‐simulated lamp. It was found that the structure of the material significantly impacts UV protection performance. Specifically, encapsulating AV‐enhanced UV radiation absorption, while the biphenyl layer improved UV‐blocking capabilities. Additionally, the PEG layer increased the materials' biocompatibility. Materials 1–4 demonstrated critical wavelengths of 389 nm and UV‐A/UV‐B ratios ranging from 0.61 to 0.89. Notably, the sun protection factor values were estimated between 6.04 and 17.24. In vivo testing on nude mice showed that untreated skin exhibited significant epidermal thickening due to sunburn. In contrast, skin treated with material 3 did not show any epidermal thickening, being 14 times thinner than unprotected skin. With high stability against photodegradation, materials 1–4 are promising candidates for UV protection applications, with material 3 proving to be the most effective.

Morphological and histochemical characteristics of the foregut, midgut, and hindgut, and their alterations during ovarian development in female freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii.

The anatomical, histological, and histochemical characteristics of the foregut (FG), midgut (MG), and hindgut (HG), as well as their alterations during the ovarian cycle in female prawns, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, were investigated. The esophagus (ESO), cardia (CD), and pylorus (PY) are the main components of the FG. An epithelium (Ep) with thick cuticle (Cu) layers lining the ESO, and the ESO is encircled by the ESO glands. The CD has a thick musculature, whereas the Ep of the PY are characterized by numerous villi andcolumnar Ep cells with a thinner layer of Cu. The inner longitudinal (LM)and the outer circular (CM)muscles were both present in the PY. The MG is lined by Ep cells which are connected to the basement membrane, and it lacks Cu. Microvilli, and subapical vacuoles are visible on the apical surface of Ep cells of the MG. The outermost layer is characterized by a dense stripof elastic fibers and a cluster of collagen fibers. The HG has the Ep cells with a thin Cu layer, and the HG glands form a rosette-like structure. The HG is surrounded by the CM and the LM fibers. The reactivities of Periodic Acid Schiff and Alcian Blue in these digestive organs altered throughout the ovarian cycle, and this was supported by the increased expression of mucin levels as ovarian maturation progressed. Our results offer novel and significant insights into the anatomical and histochemical structures of these digestive organs, and demonstrate a significant correlationbetween ovarian development and feeding in the female prawn, M. rosenbergii.