Efficient Second Harmonic Generation via Plasmonic-Photonic Mode Matching in Hybrid Waveguide.

Hybrid nonlinear plasmonic waveguides, characterized by a small mode area and large nonlinear susceptibility, present an intriguing and practical platform for the minimization of nonlinear photonic devices. Nevertheless, the intrinsic Ohmic loss associated with surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) and modal dispersion imposes constraints on the effective interaction length and, consequently, the ultimate efficiency of nonlinear processes. In this study, we demonstrate an efficient second harmonic generation (SHG) within a hybrid plasmonic waveguide by leveraging SPP-like modes at the fundamental wave and photonic-like modes at the SHG under phase matching conditions.

Association between maternal rectovaginal group B streptococcus and the risk of stillbirth: a meta-analysis.

Background: Group B streptococcus (GBS) colonization in pregnant women is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, including stillbirth. This meta-analysis investigated the relationship between maternal rectovaginal GBS colonization and the risk of stillbirth.

Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search across several databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Wanfang, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, covering studies published from the inception of the database until September 9, 2024.

IL-8 promotes pyroptosis through ERK pathway and mediates glucocorticoid resistance in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

Objective: This study seeks to elucidate the role and molecular mechanisms of IL-8 in nasal epithelial cell pyroptosis and its impact on glucocorticoid (GC) resistance.

Methods: We assessed the expression of pyroptosis-related biomarkers and IL-8 in tissues and human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) from both control and nasal polyp patients using western blot. Their localization was determined through immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence.

A compliant metastructure design with reconfigurability up to six degrees of freedom.

Compliant mechanisms with reconfigurable degrees of freedom are gaining attention in the development of kinesthetic haptic devices, robotic systems, and mechanical metamaterials. However, available devices exhibit limited programmability and form-customizability, restricting their versatility. To address this gap, we propose a metastructure concept featuring reconfigurable motional freedom and tunable stiffness, adaptable to various form factors and applications.

Rationale and design for the thoracic Paravertebral Adjunctive Dexamethasone Palmitate Reducing chronic pain After cardiac surgery (PANDORA) trial: a parallel-group, double-blinded, randomised controlled, single-centre study.

Introduction: Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) is important for enhanced recovery in cardiac surgery. However, the incidence of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) is high and is associated with worsened quality of recovery and life, as well as raised short-term or long-term mortality. The mechanism is not clear, and there is still a lack of safe and effective preventive measures.