Current technological advances in neural probing and modulation have enabled an extraordinary glimpse into the intricacies of the nervous system. Particularly, nanomaterials are proving to be an incredibly versatile platform for neurological applications owing to their biocompatibility, tunability, highly specific targeting and sensing, and long-term chemical stability. Among the most desirable nanomaterials for neuroengineering, freestanding nanomaterials are minimally invasive and remotely controlled. This review outlines the most recent developments of freestanding nanomaterials that operate on the neuronal interface. First, the different nanomaterials and their mechanisms for modulating neurons are explored to provide a basis for how freestanding nanomaterials operate. Then, the three main applications of subcellular neuronal engineering—modulating neuronal behavior, exploring fundamental neuronal mechanism, and recording neuronal signal—are highlighted with specific examples of current advancements. Finally, we conclude with our perspective on future nanomaterial designs and applications.

Background: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with a growing proportion of cases occurring in female Asian never-smokers (FANS). Although tobacco exposure remains the predominant risk factor, emerging evidence highlights the substantial role of non-tobacco determinants. However, the relative contributions of these factors remain poorly defined. Objectives: This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on biological, clinical, and environmental risk factors for lung cancer among FANS to identify consistent and potentially modifiable exposures to inform risk-stratified prevention strategies. Genetic and molecular determinants were excluded. Design: Systematic review. Data sources and methods: Following PRISMA-P guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science for articles published between January 2000 and July 2025 to identify peer-reviewed observational studies reporting non-tobacco risk factors for lung cancer in FANS. Due to the heterogeneity in study designs, a narrative synthesis was performed on the final 42 studies. Results: Indoor air pollution, such as high-temperature cooking oil fumes, prolonged solid-fuel use, and inadequate household or workplace ventilation, consistently conferred elevated risks (2–4× higher). Risk estimates increased up to 12-fold for high cumulative exposures. This risk was also seen in occupational exposures such as commercial cooking and International Agency for Research on Cancer-classified industrial jobs. Family history of lung cancer, especially among first-degree relatives, nearly doubled risk in several large cohorts. Prior non-malignant lung diseases such as tuberculosis, asthma, and lymphangioleiomyomatosis were also significantly associated with increased risk. Conclusion: Lung cancer in FANS may be driven by largely modifiable non-tobacco exposures. These findings underscore the need to expand risk assessments beyond smoking history to incorporate detailed household, occupational, and clinical exposures, and to develop targeted, culturally informed prevention and screening strategies for this high-risk population. Trial Registration: The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251111993).

Background: Intraoperative visualization of ground glass opacities (GGOs) remains challenging, with past techniques limited by safety concerns and poor margin assessment. We evaluate the utility of pafolacianine, an intraoperative molecular imaging (IMI) agent for GGO visualization. Methods: We conducted a prospective study from an integrated health system of patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lung resections for GGOs from 6/1/2025 to 8/31/2025. Pafolacianine was administered intravenously one hour preoperatively. Lung parenchyma was inspected for fluorescence using Stryker 1788 imaging before resection. Real-time intraoperative and postoperative surveys were completed, and chart review was performed to collect sociodemographic, pathologic, and surgical outcome data. Results: Twenty-one patients (median age 70 years), predominantly female (62%), Asian (48%), and never-smokers (71%), underwent VATS with a median hospital stay of 1 day. Intraoperative molecular imaging prompted escalation to completion lobectomy in 10% of patients. Among 19 non-metastatic patients, 26 lesions (median diameter 14 mm) were resected, the majority of which were pure GGOs (69%). Intraoperative molecular imaging detected all malignant lesions, with 27% identified exclusively by IMI. Adenocarcinoma accounted for 62% of lesions, while 23% were benign. Intraoperative molecular imaging had a positive predictive value of 0.76 (95% CI, 0.54-0.90) and false discovery rate of 0.24 (95% CI, 0.10-0.46). All margins were negative, and no adverse events were reported. Discussion: This exploratory real-world study suggests that pafolacianine facilitates optimal intraoperative visualization of challenging GGO lesions, supporting its potential to improve surgical decision-making, tumor detection, and margin assessment during VATS lung resections.

Medical student research conferences are emerging as a critical platform to bridge the accessibility gap in early research training, foster collaboration, and enhance professional development. This editorial draws upon the experience of the International Journal of Medical Students (IJMS) in organizing the World Conference of Medical Student Research (WCMSR), an annual global, student-led virtual event. Research involvement is increasingly expected in residency applications, yet barriers such as perceived complexity, lack of mentorship, and limited opportunities hinder student engagement. The WCMSR offers a model for overcoming these challenges by providing medical students with roles as presenters, reviewers, organizers, and moderators, transforming conferences into experiential learning spaces. The article outlines essential components of planning, including defining conference vision and scope, forming a multidisciplinary organizing team, establishing transparent abstract review processes, and structuring programs that balance academic sessions with networking and wellness. Considerations for in-person, virtual, and hybrid formats are discussed, emphasizing inclusivity, affordability, and the logistical demands of each. Promotion strategies highlight the importance of social media, partnerships, and co-branding to maximize outreach. The editorial also stresses the role of clear evaluation criteria, awards, and post-conference dissemination to ensure fairness, recognition, and visibility of student research. Ultimately, student-led conferences like the WCMSR demonstrate how small-scale, well-structured initiatives can amplify medical student voices, build leadership and teamwork skills, and inspire future physician-scientists. By sharing these insights, the authors aim to provide a practical blueprint for peers worldwide to design similar conferences, advancing research accessibility and fostering a culture of global scholarly exchange.