Alleviatory Role of Panax Notoginseng Saponins in Modulating Inflammation and Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: mechanisms and Implications

COPD is an inflammatory lung disease that limits airflow and remodels the pulmonary vascular system. This study delves into the therapeutic potential and mechanistic underpinnings of Panax notoginseng Saponins (PNS) in alleviating inflammation and pulmonary vascular remodeling in a COPD rat model. Symmap and ETCM databases provided Panax notoginseng-related target genes, and the CTD and DisGeNET databases provided COPD-related genes. Intersection genes were subjected to protein-protein interaction analysis and pathway enrichment to identify downstream pathways. A COPD rat model was established, with groups receiving varying doses of PNS and a Roxithromycin control. The pathological changes in lung tissue and vasculature were examined using histological staining, while molecular alterations were explored through ELISA, RT-PCR, and Western blot. Network pharmacology research suggested PNS may affect the TLR4/NF-κB pathway linked to COPD development. The study revealed that, in contrast to the control group, the COPD model exhibited a significant increase in inflammatory markers and pathway components such as TLR4, NF-κB, HIF-1α, VEGF, ICAM-1, SELE mRNA, and serum TNF-α, IL-8, and IL-1β. Treatment with PNS notably decreased these markers and mitigated inflammation around the bronchi and vessels. Taken together, the study underscores the potential of PNS in reducing lung inflammation and vascular remodeling in COPD rats, primarily via modulation of the TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α/VEGF pathway. This research offers valuable insights for developing new therapeutic strategies for managing and preventing COPD.

Electrokinetic Analyses Uncover the Rate-Determining Step of Biomass-Derived Monosaccharide Electroreduction on Copper

Electrochemical biomass conversion holds promise to upcycle carbon sources and produce valuable products while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To this end, deep insight into the interfacial mechanism is essential for the rational design of an efficient electrocatalytic route, which is still an area of active research and development. Herein, we report the reduction of dihydroxyacetone (DHA)-the simplest monosaccharide derived from glycerol feedstock-to acetol, the vital chemical intermediate in industries, with faradaic efficiency of 85±5 % on a polycrystalline Cu electrode. DHA reduction follows preceding dehydration by coordination with the carbonyl and hydroxyl groups and the subsequent hydrogenation. The electrokinetic profile indicates that the rate-determining step (RDS) includes a proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) to the dehydrated intermediate, revealed by coverage-dependent Tafel slope and isotopic labeling experiments. An approximate zero-order dependence of H+ suggests that water acts as the proton donor for the interfacial PCET process. Leveraging these insights, we formulate microkinetic models to illustrate its origin that Eley-Rideal (E-R) dominates over Langmuir-Hinshelwood (L-H) in governing Cu-mediated DHA reduction, offering rational guidance that increasing the concentration of the adsorbed reactant alone would be sufficient to promote the activity in designing practical catalysts.

Hypothalamic POMC neuron-specific knockout of MC4R affects insulin sensitivity by regulating Kir2.1

BACKGROUND

Imbalance in energy regulation is a major cause of insulin resistance and diabetes. Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) signaling at specific sites in the central nervous system has synergistic but non-overlapping functions. However, the mechanism by which MC4R in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) region regulates energy balance and insulin resistance remains unclear.

METHODS

The MC4Rflox/flox mice with proopiomelanocortin (POMC) -Cre mice were crossed to generate the POMC-MC4Rflox/+ mice. Then POMC-MC4Rflox/+ mice were further mated with MC4Rflox/flox mice to generate the POMC-MC4Rflox/flox mice in which MC4R is selectively deleted in POMC neurons. Bilateral injections of 200 nl of AAV-sh-Kir2.1 (AAV-sh-NC was used as control) were made into the ARC of the hypothalamus. Oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, respiratory exchange ratio and energy expenditure were measured by using the CLAMS; Total, visceral and subcutaneous fat was analyzed using micro-CT. Co-immunoprecipitation assays (Co-IP) were used to analyze the interaction between MC4R and Kir2.1 in GT1-7 cells.

RESULTS

POMC neuron-specific ablation of MC4R in the ARC region promoted food intake, impaired energy expenditure, leading to increased weight gain and impaired systemic glucose homeostasis. Additionally, MC4R ablation reduced the activation of POMC neuron, and is not tissue-specific for peripheral regulation, suggesting the importance of its central regulation. Mechanistically, sequencing analysis and Co-IP assay demonstrated a direct interaction of MC4R with Kir2.1. Knockdown of Kir2.1 in POMC neuron-specific ablation of MC4R restored the effect of MC4R ablation on energy expenditure and systemic glucose homeostasis, indicating by reduced body weight and ameliorated insulin resistance.

CONCLUSION

Hypothalamic POMC neuron-specific knockout of MC4R affects energy balance and insulin sensitivity by regulating Kir2.1. Kir2.1 represents a new target and pathway that could be targeted in obesity.

The Exosome-Mediated Bone Regeneration: An Advanced Horizon Toward the Isolation, Engineering, Carrying Modalities, and Mechanisms

Exosomes, nanoparticles secreted by various cells, composed of a bilayer lipid membrane, and containing bioactive substances such as proteins, nucleic acids, metabolites, etc., have been intensively investigated in tissue engineering owing to their high biocompatibility and versatile biofunction. However, there is still a lack of a high-quality review on bone defect regeneration potentiated by exosomes. In this review, the biogenesis and isolation methods of exosomes are first introduced. More importantly, the engineered exosomes of the current state of knowledge are discussed intensively in this review. Afterward, the biomaterial carriers of exosomes and the mechanisms of bone repair elucidated by compelling evidence are presented. Thus, future perspectives and concerns are revealed to help devise advanced modalities based on exosomes to overcome the challenges of bone regeneration. It is totally believed this review will attract special attention from clinicians and provide promising ideas for their future works.

Defects in lead halide perovskite light-emitting diodes under electric field: from behavior to passivation strategies

Lead halide perovskites (LHPs) are emerging semiconductor materials for light-emitting diodes (LEDs) owing to their unique structure and superior optoelectronic properties. However, defects that initiate degradation of LHPs through external stimuli and prompt internal ion migration at the interfaces remain a significant challenge. The electric field (EF), which is a fundamental driving force in LED operation, complicates the role of these defects in the physical and chemical properties of LHPs. A deeper understanding of EF-induced defect behavior is crucial for optimizing the LED performance. In this review, the origins and characterization of defects are explored, indicating the influence of EF-induced defect dynamics on LED performance and stability. A comprehensive overview of recent defect passivation approaches for LHP bulk films and nanocrystals (NCs) is also provided. Given the ubiquity of EF, a summary of the EF-induced defect behavior can enhance the performance of perovskite LEDs and related optoelectronic devices.

Adipocyte-derived exosomal miR-22-3p modulated by circadian rhythm disruption regulates insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle cells

Circadian rhythm disruption leads to dysregulation of lipid metabolism, which further drive the occurrence of insulin resistance (IR). Exosomes are natural carrier systems that advantageous for cell communication. In the present study, we aimed to explore whether and how the exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) in circulation participate in modulating skeletal muscle IR induced by circadian rhythm disruption. In the present study, 24-h constant light (12-h light/12-h light, LL) was used to establish the mouse model of circadian rhythm disruption. Bmal1 interference was used to establish the cell model of circadian rhythm disruption. And in clinical experiments, we chose a relatively large group of rhythm disturbance-shift nurses. We showed that LL-induced circadian rhythm disruption led to increased body weight and visceral fat volume, as well as occurrence of IR in vivo. Furthermore, exosomal miR-22-3p derived from adipocytes in the context of circadian rhythm disruption induced by Bmal1 interference could be uptaken by skeletal muscle cells to promote IR occurrence in vitro. Moreover, miR-22-3p in circulation was positively correlated with the clinical IR-associated factors. Collectively, these data showed that exosomal miR-22-3p in circulation may act as potential biomarker and therapeutic target for skeletal muscle IR, contributing to the prevention of diabetes in the context of rhythm disturbance.

Zuo Gui Wan Promotes Osteogenesis via PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway: Network Pharmacology Analysis and Experimental Validation

OBJECTIVE

Osteogenesis is vitally important for bone defect repair, and Zuo Gui Wan (ZGW) is a classic prescription in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for strengthening bones. However, the specific mechanism by which ZGW regulates osteogenesis is still unclear. The current study is based on a network pharmacology analysis to explore the potential mechanism of ZGW in promoting osteogenesis.

METHODS

A network pharmacology analysis followed by experimental validation was applied to explore the potential mechanisms of ZGW in promoting the osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).

RESULTS

In total, 487 no-repeat targets corresponding to the bioactive components of ZGW were screened, and 175 target genes in the intersection of ZGW and osteogenesis were obtained. And 28 core target genes were then obtained from a PPI network analysis. A GO functional enrichment analysis showed that the relevant biological processes mainly involve the cellular response to chemical stress, metal ions, and lipopolysaccharide. Additionally, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that multiple signaling pathways, including the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway, were associated with ZGW-promoted osteogensis. Further experimental validation showed that ZGW could increase alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity as well as the mRNA and protein levels of ALP, osteocalcin (OCN), and runt related transcription factor 2 (Runx 2). What's more, Western blot analysis results showed that ZGW significantly increased the protein levels of p-PI3K and p-AKT, and the increases of these protein levels significantly receded after the addition of the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. Finally, the upregulated osteogenic-related indicators were also suppressed by the addition of LY294002.

CONCLUSION

ZGW promotes the osteogenesis of BMSCs via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Modulation Phase Distribution of Ruddlesden-Popper Quasi-2D Perovskites with a Similarly Spaced Dion-Jacobson Phase

Quasi-two-dimensional (quasi-2D) perovskites exhibit excellent performance when applied to light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, quasi-2D perovskite films generally have nonuniform n phases and irregular internal crystal structures, which degrade the device's performance. Here, we propose using a Dion-Jacobson (DJ)-type organic spacer to modulate the phase distribution of the Ruddlesden-Popper (RP) quasi-2D perovskite. A DJ-type organic spacer cation, 1.6-hexamethylenediamine (HDABr2), was introduced into the perovskite as the second spacer cation with propylamine hydrobromide (PABr). As DJ-type and RP-type perovskites have similar spacings, RP-DJ style does not cause a chaotic crystalline structure; instead, it modulates the perovskite crystallization and narrows the phase distribution. In parallel, there is a substantial improvement in the maximum luminance, current efficiency, external quantum efficiency, and device stability of the quasi-2D perovskite LEDs. This work provides a novel concept for combining the organic spacer cations for quasi-2D perovskites.

Association of Short-Chain Fatty Acids with Gut Microbiota and Lipid Metabolism in Mice with Diarrhea Induced by High-Fat Diet in a Fatigued State

SCOPE

Preliminary research finds that a high-fat diet (HFD) in a fatigued state triggers diarrhea, but the exact mechanism has not been clarified. To address concerns about the pathogenesis of diarrhea, the study evaluates the composition and metabolomics of the gut microbiota.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study uses the multiple platform apparatus device to induce fatigue in mice, combined with intragastric administration of lard-caused diarrhea. Subsequently, the characteristics and interaction relationship of gut microbiota, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), inflammatory biomarkers, brain-gut peptides, and lipid metabolism are analyzed at the end of the experiment. HFD in a fatigued state results in a significant increase in interleukin-17, interleukin-6, cholecystokinin, somatostatin, and malondialdehyde content in mice (p < 0.05), along with a substantial decrease in high-density lipoprotein (p < 0.05). Additionally, an HFD in a fatigued state causes changes in the structure and composition of the gut microbiota, with Lactobacillus murinus as its characteristic bacteria, and reduces the production of SCFAs.

CONCLUSIONS

An HFD in a fatigued state triggers diarrhea, possibly associated with gut content microbiota dysbiosis, SCFAs deprivation, increased inflammation, and dysregulated lipid metabolism.

Predicting cervical lymph node metastasis in OSCC based on computed tomography imaging genomics

BACKGROUND

To investigate the correlation between computed tomography (CT) radiomic characteristics and key genes for cervical lymph node metastasis (LNM) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

METHODS

The region of interest was annotated at the edge of the primary tumor on enhanced CT images from 140 patients with OSCC and obtained radiomic features. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequencing was performed on pathological sections from 20 patients. the DESeq software package was used to compare differential gene expression between groups. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was used to construct co-expressed gene modules, and the KEGG and GO databases were used for pathway enrichment analysis of key gene modules. Finally, Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between key genes of enriched pathways and radiomic features.

RESULTS

Four hundred and eighty radiomic features were extracted from enhanced CT images of 140 patients; seven of these correlated significantly with cervical LNM in OSCC (p < 0.01). A total of 3527 differentially expressed RNAs were screened from RNA sequencing data of 20 cases. original_glrlm_RunVariance showed significant positive correlation with most long noncoding RNAs.

CONCLUSIONS

OSCC cervical LNM is related to the salivary hair bump signaling pathway and biological process. Original_glrlm_RunVariance correlated with LNM and most differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs.

Lipophilic statins inhibit YAP coactivator transcriptional activity in HCC cells through Rho-mediated modulation of actin cytoskeleton

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of liver-related death. Lipophilic statins have been associated with a decrease in HCC incidence, raising the possibility of their use as chemoprevention agents. The Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) have emerged as an important pro-oncogenic mechanism in HCC. Statins modulate YAP/TAZ in other solid tumors, but few studies have assessed their mechanisms in HCC. We aimed to delineate how lipophilic statins regulate YAP protein localization by interrogating the mevalonate pathway in a stepwise manner using pharmacological and genetical approaches in HCC cells. Huh7 and Hep3B HCC cells were treated with the lipophilic statins cerivastatin and atorvastatin. YAP protein localization was determined using quantitative immunofluorescence (IF) imaging. The gene expression of CTGF and CYR61, known YAP/TEA-domain DNA-binding factor (TEAD)-regulated genes, was measured using quantitative real-time PCR. Rescue experiments were conducted using metabolites of the mevalonate pathway including mevalonic acid and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GG-PP). The cellular cytoskeleton was assessed using F-actin IF staining. YAP protein was extruded from the nucleus to the cytoplasm with statin treatment. Consistently, CTGF and CYR61 mRNA expression significantly decreased with statins. Cytoskeletal structure was also compromised with statins. Gene expression, YAP protein localization, and cytoskeletal structure were all restored to baseline with exogenous GG-PP but not with other metabolites of the mevalonate pathway. Direct Rho GTPase inhibitor treatment mirrored the statin effects on YAP. YAP protein localization is regulated by lipophilic statins via Rho GTPases, causing cytoskeletal structural changes and is independent of cholesterol metabolites.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Statins are widely used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Recently, their use has been associated with a decrease in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, their mechanism(s) has remained elusive. In this study, we delineate the mechanism by which statins affect the Yes-associated protein (YAP), which has emerged as a key oncogenic pathway in HCC. We investigate each step of the mevalonate pathway and demonstrate that statins regulate YAP via Rho GTPases.

High-Flux Neutron Generator Based on Laser-Driven Collisionless Shock Acceleration

A novel compact high-flux neutron generator with a pitcher-catcher configuration based on laser-driven collisionless shock acceleration (CSA) is proposed and experimentally verified. Different from those that previously relied on target normal sheath acceleration (TNSA), CSA in nature favors not only acceleration of deuterons (instead of hydrogen contaminants) but also increasing of the number of deuterons in the high-energy range, therefore having great advantages for production of high-flux neutron source. The proof-of-principle experiment has observed a typical CSA plateau feature from 2 to 6 MeV in deuteron energy spectrum and measured a forward neutron flux with yield 6.6×10^{7}  n/sr from the LiF catcher target, an order of magnitude higher than the compared TNSA case, where the laser intensity is 10^{19}  W/cm^{2}. Self-consistent simulations have reproduced the experimental results and predicted that a high-flux forward neutron source with yield up to 5×10^{10}  n/sr can be obtained when laser intensity increases to 10^{21}  W/cm^{2} under the same laser energy.

Stability and Degradation in Lead Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals via Regulation of Lattice Strain

It is still quite challenging to achieve high-performance and stable blue perovskite materials due to their instability and degradation. The lattice strain provides an important pathway to investigate the degradation process. In this article, the lattice strain in perovskite nanocrystals was regulated by the ratio of Cs⁺, EA⁺, and Rb⁺ cations with different sizes. Their electrical structure, formation energy, and ion migration activation energy were calculated with the density functional theory (DFT) method. The luminescence properties and stability of blue lead bromide perovskite nanocrystals were analyzed with spectra regulation from 516 to 472 nm. It was demonstrated that the lattice strain plays an important role in the luminescence performance and degradation process of perovskite materials. The study provides the positive correlation between lattice strain and degradation as well as luminescence properties in lead halide perovskite materials, which is of great importance in uncovering their degradation mechanism and developing stable and high-performance blue perovskite materials.

Diarrhea accompanies intestinal inflammation and intestinal mucosal microbiota dysbiosis during fatigue combined with a high-fat diet

OBJECTIVE

It was reported fatigue or a high-fat diet triggers diarrhea, and intestinal microbiota may play central roles in diarrhea. Therefore, we investigated the association between the intestinal mucosal microbiota and the intestinal mucosal barrier from fatigue combined with a high-fat diet.

METHOD

This study divided the Specific pathogen-free (SPF) male mice into the normal group (MCN) and the standing united lard group (MSLD). The MSLD group stood on water environment platform box for 4 h/day for 14 days, and 0.4 mL lard was gavaged from day 8, twice daily for 7 days.

RESULT

After 14 days, Mice in the MSLD group showed diarrhea symptoms. The pathological analysis showed structural damage to the small intestine in the MSLD group, with an increasing trend of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-17, and inflammation accompanied by structural damage to the intestine. Fatigue combined with a high-fat diet considerably decreased Limosilactobacillus vaginalis and Limosilactobacillus reuteri, and among them, Limosilactobacillus reuteri positively associated with Muc2 and negatively with IL-6.

CONCLUSION

The interactions between Limosilactobacillus reuteri and intestinal inflammation might be involved in the process of intestinal mucosal barrier impairment in fatigue combined with high-fat diet-induced diarrhea.

Intestinal mucosal flora of the intestine-kidney remediation process of diarrhea with deficiency kidney-yang syndrome in Sishen Pill treatment: Association with interactions between Lactobacillus johnsonii, Ca2+-Mg2+-ATP-ase, and Na+-K+-ATP-ase

This study aims to investigate the effect of Sishen Pill on the characteristics of gut mucosal microbiota in diarrhea mice with deficiency kidney-yang syndrome. Fifteen Kunming male mice were randomly divided into Normal control group (C), Model self-healing group (X) and Sishen Pill group (S), with 5 mice/cages. Hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the kidney structure. Serum Na⁺-K⁺-ATP-ase and Ca²⁺-Mg²⁺-ATP-ase were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Analysis of intestinal mucosal flora using third-generation high-throughput sequencing. The relative abundance results in the three groups revealed that the dominant bacterial genera: Lactobacillus, Muribaculum and Candidatus-Arthromitus; bacterial species: Lactobacillus johnsonii, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus murinus, and Lactobacillus intestinalis, and differences in the presence of major microbiota between the X and S groups. A positive correlation between Lactobacillus johnsonii and both Ca²⁺-Mg²⁺-ATP-ase and Na⁺-K⁺-ATP-ase was found via correlation analysis. Sishen Pill also changed the manufacture of other secondary metabolites, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates, glycans, energy, lipids, and other amino acids, and xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism. In conclusion, Sishen Pill improved kidney structure, energy metabolism and the diversity and structure of intestinal mucosal flora. In addition, Lactobacillus johnsonii may be a characteristic species of Sishen Pill in treating diarrhea with kidney-yang deficiency syndrome.

Hydroxy silicone oil modified boron nitride for high thermal conductivity and low dielectric loss silicone rubber composites: experimental and molecular simulation studies

Polymer-based composites are widely used in microelectronics and wireless communications, which require high thermal conductivity and low dielectric loss for effective heat dispersion and signal transmission. Different lengths of hydroxyl silicone oil chains modified boron nitride/silicone rubber composites were explored and prepared in this work. Experiments demonstrate that the long-chain modified BN improves the thermal conductivity and decreases the dielectric loss of composites. A molecular dynamics simulation was employed to study the mechanism and affecting variables. The calculated results indicated that the improvement of the thermal and dielectric properties is mainly related to the interfacial behavior, including interfacial compatibility, interfacial bond strength, and phonon matching. Based on the simulated interfacial behavior and thermal conductivity, the thermal and dielectric properties of different chain-length modified boron nitride/silicone rubber composites have been anticipated. The results show that the longer-chain modified boron nitride/silicone rubber composites have better thermal and dielectric properties. This research may give a theoretical foundation for the development of materials with designable performance for electronic devices.

The Effect of Various Fillers on the Properties of Methyl Vinyl Silicone Rubber

Silicone rubber (SIR) has been widely used in electrical insulation fields, and the introduction of new materials is very important for the performance improvement of SIR composites. In this work, four different fillers, including aluminium hydroxide (ATH), yimonite (YMT), boron nitride (BN) and mica-filled SIR composites were prepared, and the vulcanization behavior, mechanical properties, insulation performance and hydrophobicity of the SIR composites were investigated and compared. Both BN- and mica-filled SIR composites showed excellent insulation performance, while the ATH-filled SIR composite exhibited the best mechanical properties with an elongation at break of 230% and a tensile strength of 2.9 MPa. The SIR/BN composite showed a breakdown strength of 29.2 kV/mm with a 5% failure rate. The addition of YMT deteriorated the insulation performance of SIR but improved the elongation at break and hydrophobicity, with an elongation at break increasing from 115% to 410% and the static contact angle improving from 109.8° to 115.6°.

Comparative analysis of the functional properties of human and mouse ferroportin

Ferroportin (Fpn)-expressed at the plasma membrane of macrophages, enterocytes, and hepatocytes-mediates the transfer of cellular iron into the blood plasma. Under the control of the iron-regulatory hormone hepcidin, Fpn serves a critical role in systemic iron homeostasis. Whereas we have previously characterized human Fpn, a great deal of research in iron homeostasis and disorders utilizes mouse models. By way of example, the flatiron mouse, a model of classical ferroportin disease, bears the mutation H32R in Fpn and is characterized by systemic iron deficiency and macrophage iron retention. The flatiron mouse also appears to exhibit a manganese phenotype, raising the possibility that mouse Fpn serves a role in manganese metabolism. At odds with this observation, we have found that human Fpn does not transport manganese, so we considered the possibility that a species difference could explain this discrepancy. We tested the hypothesis that mouse but not human Fpn can transport manganese and performed a comparative analysis of mouse and human Fpn. We examined the functional properties of human Fpn, mouse Fpn, and mutant mouse Fpn by using radiotracer assays in RNA-injected Xenopus oocytes. We found that neither mouse nor human Fpn transports manganese. Mouse and human Fpn share identical properties with respect to substrate profile, calcium dependence, optimal pH, and hepcidin sensitivity. We have also demonstrated that Fpn is not an ATPase pump. Our findings validate the use of mouse models of ferroportin function in iron homeostasis and disease.

The diarrheal mechanism of mice with a high-fat diet in a fatigued state is associated with intestinal mucosa microbiota

Growing evidence has demonstrated that fatigue and a high-fat diet trigger diarrhea, and intestinal microbiota disorder interact with diarrhea. However, the association of intestinal mucosal microbiota with fatigue and high-fat diet trigger diarrhea remains unclear. The specific pathogen-free Kunming male mice were randomly divided into the normal group (MCN), standing group (MSD), lard group (MLD), and standing united lard group (MSLD). Mice in the MSD and MSLD groups stood on the multiple-platform apparatus for four h/d for fourteen consecutive days. From the eighth day, mice in the MLD and MSLD groups were intragastric lard, 0.4 mL/each, twice a day for seven days. Subsequently, we analyzed the characteristics and interaction relationship of intestinal mucosal microbiota, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-17 (IL-17), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA). Results showed that mice in the MSLD group had an increased number of bowel movements. Compared with the MCN group, the contents of IL-17, and IL-6 were higher (p > 0.05), and the content of sIgA was lower in the MSLD group (p > 0.05). MDA and SOD increased in MLD and MSLD groups. Thermoactinomyces and Staphyloccus were the characteristic bacteria of the MSLD group. And Staphyloccus were positively correlated with IL-6, IL-17, and SOD. In conclusion, the interactions between Thermoactinomyces, Staphyloccus and intestinal inflammation, and immunity might be involved in fatigue and high-fat diet-induced diarrhea.

Intercalation of salicylaldoxime into layered double hydroxide: ultrafast and highly selective uptake of uranium from different water systems via versatile binding modes

We report the first example of MgAl layered double hydroxide intercalated with salicylaldoxime (SA-LDH) which exhibits excellent uranium (U(VI)) capture performance. In U(VI) aqueous solutions, the SA-LDH shows a tremendous maximum U(VI) sorption capacity (q_m^U) of 502 mg·g^-1, surpassing most known sorbents. For the aqueous solution with an initial U(VI) concentration (C₀^U) of ∼ 10 ppm, ≥99.99 % uptake is achieved in a wide pH range of 3-10. At C₀^U ∼ 20 ppm, >99 % uptake is reached within only 5 min, and pseudo-second-order kinetics rate constant (k₂) of 44.9 g·mg^-1·min^-1 reaches the record value, placing the SA-LDH amongst the fastest U adsorbing materials reported to date. In contaminated seawater with 35 ppm of U while highly concentrated metal ions of Na⁺, Mg²⁺, Ca²⁺, and K⁺, the SA-LDH still displays exceptionally high selectivity and ultrafast extraction for UO₂²⁺, giving >95 % uptake of U(VI) within 5 min, and the k₂ value of 0.308 g·mg^-1·min^-1 for seawater surpasses most reported values for aqueous solutions. Versatile binding modes toward U by SA-LDH, including complexation (UO₂²⁺ with SA^- and/or CO₃^2-), ion exchange and precipitation, contribute to the preferable uptake of U at different concentrations. X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) analyses demonstrate that one uranyl ion (UO₂²⁺) binds to two SA^- anions and two H₂O molecules forming 8-coordinated configuration. The U coordinates with O atom of the phenolic hydroxyl group and N atom of the -CN-O^- group of SA^-, forming a stable six-membered ring motif, which endows the fast and robust capture of U. The wonderful uranium trapping ability makes the SA-LDH among the best adsorbent used for uranium extraction from various solution systems including seawater.

Alteration of intestinal mucosal microbiota in mice with Chinese dampness-heat syndrom diarrhea by improper diet combined with high temperature and humidity environments

Background

Environment, diet, and emotion may trigger diarrhea, but the mechanism is unclear. Dietary habits or environmental factors affect the composition of gut microbiota. This study aimed to investigate the effects of improper diet combined with high humidity and temperature (HTH) environment on the intestinal mucosal microbiota.

Materials and methods

Kunming mice were randomly assigned to two equal groups of five mice, namely the control (ccm) group and the model (cmm) group. Diarrhea mice with dampness-heat (DSH) were established by improper diet combined with HTH environments. We used 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to analyze the characteristics of intestinal mucosal microbiota and the interaction relationship of function.

Results

Our study shows that the intestinal mucosal microbiota of mice changed significantly after an improper diet combined with the HTH environments. The abundance of Fusobacteria and Haemophilus increased dramatically in the cmm group compared to the ccm group (P<0.05). And the abundance of Firmicutes, Lactobacillus, and Lonsdalea was significantly decreased in the cmm group (P<0.05). According to the functional predictive analysis, we found that Lactobacillus showed a significant negative correlation with Protein export, Homologous recombination, Phenylalanine, tyrosine, tryptophan biosynthesis, Citrate cycle, and Lipoic acid metabolism.

Conclusion

Diarrhea with DSH constructed under improper diet and HTH environment may be related to Lactobacillus and Haemophilus. And long-term consumption of improper diet and the HTH environment may affect metabolism.

Extracellular vesicles secreted by human gingival mesenchymal stem cells promote bone regeneration in rat femoral bone defects

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), important components of paracrine secretion, are involved in various pathological and physiological processes of the body. In this study, we researched the benefits of EVs secreted by human gingival mesenchymal stem cells (hGMSC-derived EVs) in promoting bone regeneration, thereby providing new ideas for EVs-based bone regeneration therapy. Here, we successfully demonstrated that hGMSC-derived EVs could enhance the osteogenic ability of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and the angiogenic capability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Then, femoral defect rat models were created and treated with phosphate-buffered saline, nanohydroxyapatite/collagen (nHAC), a grouping of nHAC/hGMSCs, and a grouping of nHAC/EVs. The results of our study indicated that the combination of hGMSC-derived EVs and nHAC materials could significantly promote new bone formation and neovascularization with a similar effect to that of the nHAC/hGMSCs group. Our outcomes provide new messages on the role of hGMSC-derived EVs in tissue engineering, which exhibit great potential in bone regeneration treatment.

Gut Contents Microbiota Dysbiosis and Dysregulated Lipid Metabolism in Diarrhea Caused by High-Fat Diet in a Fatigued State

Previous evidence has indicated that fatigue and a high-fat diet (HFD) cause the adaptive organism responses to be dysregulated, resulting in gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Generally, gut microbiota plays a crucial...

A deep learning model using convolutional neural networks for caries detection and recognition with endoscopes

Background

Caries are common, especially in economically undeveloped countries with limited access to medical resources. Sometimes patient cannot even realize that they have oral problems until they feel obvious pain. Deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been widely adopted for medical image analysis and management and have yielded some progress in stomatology while the endoscopes are cheap and easily used in daily life for families or other non-medical situations. Therefore, we created a deep learning model to detect and recognize caries using endoscopic images.

Methods

We used 194 images of non-caries and 1,059 images of permanent molar and premolar caries to build a classification and a segmentation model in patients of endoscope images from the Department of Stomatology of People's Liberation Army General Hospital (PLAGH). A classification model combined with an end-to-end semantic segmentation model, DeepLabv3+ was used for segmenting the caries, then we evaluated with a 5-fold cross-validation protocol whereby each fold was used once.

Results

In the classification model, the mean area under the curve (AUC) [90% confidence interval (CI)] was 0.9897 (0.9821-0.9956) (P<0.01) In the segmentation model, the mean accuracy was 0.9843 (0.9820-0.9871), the recall was 0.6996 (0.6810-0.7194), the specificity was 0.9943 (0.9937-0.9954), the Dice coefficient was 0.7099 (0.6948-0.7343), and the intersection over union (IoU) was 0.5779 (0.5646-0.6006).

Conclusions

We used a deep learning model to monitor caries and encourage their early diagnosis and treatment.

Effects of sweeteners on host physiology by intestinal mucosal microbiota: Example-addition sweeteners in Qiweibaizhu Powder on intestinal mucosal microbiota of mice with antibiotic-associated diarrhea

In recent years, sweeteners have gained massive popularity under the trend of limiting sugar intake. Our previous study found that Qiweibaizhu Powder (QWBZP) could improve gut microbiota dysbiosis and has good efficacy in treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). In this study, we investigated the effects of sucrose, sorbitol, xylitol, and saccharin on the intestinal mucosal microbiota of AAD mice treated with QWBZP. When the AAD model was constructed by being gavaged mixed antibiotic solution, Kunming mice were randomly assigned to seven groups: the control (mn) group, the ADD (mm) group, the QWBZP (mq) group, the saccharin + QWBZP (mc) group, the sucrose + QWBZP (ms) group, the xylito + QWBZP (mx) group, and the sorbitol + QWBZP (msl) group. Subsequently, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was used to analyze the intestinal mucosal microbiota composition and abundance. The results showed that feces from AAD mice were diluted and wet and improved diarrhea symptoms with QWBZP and sorbitol. In contrast, the addition of sucrose, saccharin, and xylitol delayed the healing of diarrhea. The relative abundance of intestinal mucosal microbiota showed Glutamicibacter, Robinsoniella, and Blautia were characteristic bacteria of the mx group, Candidatus Arthromitus, and Bacteroidales_S24-7_group as the typical bacteria of the mn group, Clostridium_innocuum_group as the distinct bacteria of the mm group. Mycoplasma and Bifidobacterium as the characteristic bacteria of the ms group. Correlation analysis of typical bacterial genera with metabolic functions shows that Blautia negatively correlates with D-Glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism. Bacteroidales_S24-7_group has a significant negative correlation with the Synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies. The study confirmed that sucrose, sorbitol, xylitol, and saccharin might further influence metabolic function by altering the intestinal mucosal microbiota. Compared to the other sweetener, adding sorbitol to QWBZP was the best therapeutic effect for AAD and increased the biosynthesis and degradation activities. It provides the experimental basis for applying artificial sweeteners in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a reference for further rational development and safe use of artificial sweeteners.

Gut-Kidney Impairment Process of Adenine Combined with Folium sennae-Induced Diarrhea: Association with Interactions between Lactobacillus intestinalis, Bacteroides acidifaciens and Acetic Acid, Inflammation, and Kidney Function

Background: Extensive evidence suggests that gut microbiota may interact with the kidneys and play central roles in the pathogenesis of disease. However, the association of gut microbiota-kidneys in diarrhea remains unclear. Methods: A diarrhea mouse model was constructed by combining adenine with Folium sennae. We analyzed the characteristics of the gut content microbiota and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs); and explored the potential link between gut content microbiota, SCFAs, intestinal inflammatory response and kidney function. Results: Characteristic bacteria Lactobacillus intestinalis and Bacteroides acidifaciens were enriched in the gut contents of mice. The productions of SCFAs were remarkably inhibited. Model mice presented an increased trend of creatinine (Cr), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a decreased trend of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA). The pathological analysis proved obvious damage to the kidney structure. Lactobacillus intestinalis and Bacteroides acidifaciens exisited in the correlations with acetic acid, intestinal inflammatory response and kidney function. Conclusions: Adenine combined with Folium sennae-induced diarrhea, altered the structure and function of the gut content microbiota in mice, causing the enrichment of the characteristic bacteria Lactobacillus intestinalis and Bacteroides acidifaciens. The interactions between Lactobacillus intestinalis, Bacteroides acidifaciens and acetic acid, intestinal inflammation, and kidney function might be involved in the process of gut-kidney impairment in adenine, combined with Folium sennae-induced diarrhea.

Exosomes Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhance the Osteoblastic Differentiation of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells Under High Glucose Conditions Through the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway

Objective

High glucose (HG) can influence the osteogenic differentiation ability of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs). Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hUCMSC-exo) have broad application prospects in tissue healing. The current study aimed to explore whether hUCMSC-exo could promote the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs under HG conditions and the underlying mechanism.

Methods

We used a 30 mmol/L glucose concentration to simulate HG conditions. CCK-8 assay was performed to evaluate the effect of hUCMSC-exo on the proliferation of hPDLSCs. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, ALP activity, and qRT-PCR were performed to evaluate the pro-osteogenic effect of hUCMSC-exo on hPDLSCs. Western blot analysis was conducted to evaluate the underlying mechanism.

Results

The results of the CCK-8 assay, ALP staining, ALP activity, and qRT-PCR assay showed that hUCMSC-exo significantly promoted cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in a dose-dependent manner. The Western blot results revealed that hUCMSC-exo significantly increased the levels of p-PI3K and p-AKT in cells, and the effect was inhibited by LY294002 (PI3K inhibitor) or MK2206 (AKT inhibitor), respectively. Moreover, the increases in osteogenic indicators induced by hUCMSC-exo were significantly suppressed by LY294002 and MK2206.

Conclusion

hUCMSC-exo promote the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs under HG conditions through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

[A deep learning segmentation model for detecting caries in molar teeth]

This study aimed to build a home use deep learning segmentation model to identify the scope of caries lesions. A total of 494 caries photographs of molars and premolars collected via endoscopy were selected. Subsequently, these photographs were labeled by physicians and underwent segmentation training by using DeepLabv3+, and then verification and evaluation were performed. The mean accuracy was 0.993, the sensitivity was 0.661, the specificity was 0.997, the Dice coefficient was 0.685, and the intersection over union (IoU) was 0.529. Therefore, the present deep learning segmentation model can identify and segment the scope of caries.

Progress in modern research on substance of spleen qi deficiency in Chinese medicine

The spleen is the source of qi and blood production, and the foundation of acquired constitution, which governs transportation and transformation, control of the blood, and ascent of the clear. It is the hub of the body's digestion and absorption of food, water and grain essence, and fluid distribution. The function of the spleen in Chinese medicine consists of the spleen essence, spleen qi, spleen yin, spleen yang, and other physiological roles, of which the spleen qi is transformed by the spleen essence, with the role of transporting water and grain, transporting fluids, transforming qi and blood, etc. Spleen qi deficiency is characterized by the deficiency of spleen qi and the failure of transportation and transformation, resulting in metabolic disorders and reduced ability to defend the body against external evil, with poor appetite and digestion, poor food intake, unformed stool, and qi deficiency as the main manifestations. Modern scholars, guided by the theory of Chinese medicine, have conducted extensive research on the common symptoms and nature of spleen qi deficiency through scientific research methods and techniques, combined with animal experiments and clinical practice. Based on the traditional theory of Chinese medicine, this paper explores the internal mechanism of spleen qi deficiency by summarizing the symptoms of spleen qi deficiency in the digestive system, blood circulation system, immune system, and movement system, and discusses the association between spleen qi deficiency and each system, with an aim to further explain the essence of the Chinese medicine of spleen qi deficiency and deepen the understanding of the objective material basis of the Chinese medical evidence, as well as to provide reference for modern experimental research on spleen qi deficiency and the treatment of related diseases.

Importance of Dendrobium officinale in improving the adverse effects of high-fat diet on mice associated with intestinal contents microbiota

A growing body of evidence suggests that the disturbance of intestinal microbiota induced by high-fat diet is the main factor causing many diseases. Dendrobium officinale (DO), a medicinal and edible homologous Chinese herbal medicine, plays essential role in regulating intestinal microbiota. However, the extent of DO on the intestinal contents microbiota in mice fed with a high-fat diet still remains unclear. Therefore, this study explored the role of intestinal contents microbiota in the regulation of adverse effects caused by high-fat diet by DO from the perspective of intestinal microecology. Twenty-four mice were randomly distributed into the normal saline-treated basal diet (bcn), normal saline-treated high-fat diet (bmn), 2.37 g kg⁻¹ days⁻¹ DO traditional decoction-treated high-fat diet (bdn) and 1.19 g kg⁻¹ days⁻¹ lipid-lowering decoction-treated high-fat diet (bjn) groups for 40 days. Subsequently, we assessed the changes in body weight, serum total cholesterol (TC), total triacylglycerol (TG), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, and the characteristics of intestinal contents microbiota. Results demonstrated that DO exerted the modulating effect on the changes in body weight, TG, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C levels. Besides, DO decreased the richness and diversity of intestinal contents microbiota, and altered the structure as a whole. Dominant bacteria, Ruminococcus and Oscillospira, varied significantly and statistically. Moreover, DO influenced the carbohydrate, amino acid, and energy metabolic functions. Furthermore, Ruminococcus and Oscillospira presented varying degrees of inhibition/promotion of TG, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C. Consequently, we hypothesized that Ruminococcus and Oscillospira, as dominant bacteria, played key roles in the treatment of diseases associated with a high-fat diet DO.

Neoadjuvant immunoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Although anti-programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) agents have been evaluated in the neoadjuvant setting for the treatment of locally advanced head and neck cancer, including oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC), the overall response rate is modest. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant nivolumab in combination with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for the treatment of locally advanced OCSCC.

METHODS

OCSCC patients who underwent surgical resection within 6 months of treatment with nivolumab plus SBRT from December 2018 to February 2021 were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

All 30 eligible patients enrolled in this study well tolerated the neoadjuvant treatment with no serious adverse events (AEs). Of them, 27 patients (90.0%) achieved R0 resection, and 5 patients (16.7%) experienced procedure-associated complications. The complete response (CR), partial response (PR) and stable disease (SD) were 10.0%, 46.7% and 43.3% respectively. The major pathological response (MPR), complete pathological response (pCR) and clinical to pathological downstaging rate were 60.0%, 33.3% and 83.3% respectively. During the median follow-up period of 13.5 months, 26 patients (86.7%) who underwent surgical resection remained alive. The disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) at 24 months were 70.4% and 76.4% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Neoadjuvant nivolumab plus SBRT is safe and efficacious, and could be used as a potential neoadjuvant option for the treatment of patients with locally advanced OCSCC.

Yifei Sanjie Formula Treats Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease by Remodeling Pulmonary Microbiota

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common pulmonary diseases. Evidence suggests that dysbiosis of pulmonary microbiota leads to the COPD pathological process. Yifei Sanjie Formula (YS) is widely used to treat diseases in respiratory systems, yet little is known about its mechanisms. In the present study, we first established the fingerprint of YS as the background for UHPLC-QTOF-MS. Components were detected, including alkaloids, amino acid derivatives, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, terpenoids, organic acids, phenols, and the like. The therapeutic effect of YS on COPD was evaluated, and the pulmonary function and ventilatory dysfunction (EF50, TV, and MV) were improved after the administration of YS. Further, the influx of lymphocytes was inhibited in pulmonary parenchyma, accompanied by down-regulation of inflammation cytokines via the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β signaling pathway. The severity of pulmonary pathological damage was reversed. Disturbed pulmonary microbiota was discovered to involve an increased relative abundance of Ralstonia and Mycoplasma and a decreased relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Bacteroides in COPD animals. However, the subversive effect was shown. The abundance and diversity of pulmonary microflora were remodeled, especially increasing beneficial genua Lactobacillus and Bacteroides, as well as downregulating pathogenic genua Ralstonia and Mycoplasma in the YS group. Environmental factor correlation analysis showed that growing pulmonary microbiota was positively correlated with the inflammatory factor, referring to Ralstonia and Mycoplasma, as well as negatively correlated with the inflammatory factor, referring to Lactobacillus and Bacteroides. These results suggest that the effects of YS involved remodeling lung microbes and anti-inflammatory signal pathways, revealing that intervention microbiota and an anti-inflammatory may be a potential therapeutic strategy for COPD.

Case Report: Application of Mixed Reality Combined With A Surgical Template for Precise Periapical Surgery

Objective

The etiology of apical diseases is diverse, and most are due to incomplete root canal therapy. The common clinical manifestations include gingival abscess, fistula and bone destruction. The currently existing limitation of procedures is that surgeons cannot visually evaluate the surgical areas. We sought to combine mixed reality (MR) technology with a 3-dimensional (3D) printed surgical template to achieve visualization in apical surgery. Notably, no reports have described this application.

Methods

We created visual 3D (V3D) files and transferred them into the HoloLens system. We explained the surgical therapy plan to the patient using a mixed reality head-mounted display (MR-HMD). Then, the 3D information was preliminarily matched with the operative area, and the optimal surgical approach was determined by combining this information with 3D surgical guide plate technology.

Results

We successfully developed a suitable surgical workflow and confirmed the optimal surgical approach from the buccal side. We completely exposed the apical lesion and removed the inflammatory granulation tissue.

Conclusion

We are the first group to use the MR technique in apical surgery. We integrated the MR technique with a 3D surgical template to successfully accomplish the surgery. Desirable outcomes using minimally invasive therapy could be achieved with the MR technique.

Renoprotective effects of ferric citrate in a mouse model of chronic kidney disease

In chronic kidney disease, ferric citrate has been shown to be an effective phosphate binder and source of enteral iron; however, the effects of ferric citrate on the kidney have been less well-studied. Here, in Col4α3 knockout mice—a murine model of progressive chronic kidney disease, we evaluated the effects of five weeks of 1% ferric citrate dietary supplementation. As expected, ferric citrate lowered serum phosphate concentrations and increased serum iron levels in the Col4α3 knockout mice. Consistent with decreased enteral phosphate absorption and possibly improved iron status, ferric citrate greatly reduced circulating fibroblast growth factor 23 levels. Interestingly, ferric citrate also lessened systemic inflammation, improved kidney function, reduced albuminuria, and decreased kidney inflammation and fibrosis, suggesting renoprotective effects of ferric citrate in the setting of chronic kidney disease. The factors mediating possible ferric citrate renoprotection, the mechanisms by which they may act, and whether ferric citrate affects chronic kidney disease progression in humans deserves further study.

Eugenol inhibits the biological activities of an oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line SCC9 via targeting MIF

BACKGROUND

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a rampant cancer type in head and neck cancers with a poor prognosis and a high recurrence rate. Eugenol shows anticancer effect in a variety of cancers, but it has been rarely studied in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

OBJECTIVE

Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the role of Eugenol in OSCC and the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

After different concentrations of Eugenol (0, 200, 400 and 800 μM) treatment, the viability, proliferation, migration and invasion of OSCC cell line SCC9 was measured by CCK-8, colony formation, wound-healing and transwell assays, respectively. TUNEL staining was employed to detect the apoptosis. Western blotting was used to evaluate gene expression at protein level. Molecular docking was used to identify the target of Eugenol.

RESULTS

Eugenol decreased the proliferation, reduced the abilities of invasion and migration along with the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2 and MMP9 in SCC9 cells. On the contrary, the ratio of apoptotic cells was increased by Eugenol. In addition, Eugenol down-regulated B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) expression, but up-regulated BCL-2 associated X (Bax), cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) expression. Meanwhile, Eugenol exerted its effect on SCC9 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Eugenol could bind to macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), the expression of which was down-regulated after Eugenol treatment. Besides, overexpression of MIF reversed all the effects of Eugenol on OSCC cells.

CONCLUSION

In summary, Eugenol suppressed the malignant processes of OSCC cells by targeting MIF, which could guide the clinical application of Eugenol in OSCC.

Predicting the photon energy of quasi-2D lead halide perovskites from the precursor composition through machine learning

Quasi-2D perovskites with the general formula of L₂A _n-1Pb _n X_3n+1 (L = organic spacer cation, A = small organic cation or inorganic cation, X = halide ion, and n ≤ 5) are an emerging kind of luminescent material. Their emission color can be easily tuned by their composition and n value. Accurate prediction of the photon energy before experiments is essential but unpractical based on present studies. Herein, we use machine learning (ML) to explore the quantitative relationship between the photon energies of quasi-2D perovskite materials and their precursor compositions. The random forest (RF) model presents high accuracy in prediction with a root mean square error (RMSE) of ∼0.05 eV on a test set. By feature importance analysis, the composition of the A-site cation is found to be a critical factor affecting the photon energy. Moreover, it is also found that the phase impurity greatly lowers the photon energy and needs to be minimized. Furthermore, the RF model predicts the compositions of quasi-2D perovskites with high photon energies for blue emission. These results highlight the advantage of machine learning in predicting the properties of quasi-2D perovskites before experiments and also providing color tuning directions for experiments.

Device performance improvements in all-inorganic perovskite light-emitting diodes: the role of binary ammonium cation terminals

All-inorganic perovskites, like CsPbBr₃, have gained particular concern due to their excellent material stability. However, aside from the general defect issue in perovskite materials, all-inorganic perovskites also suffer from poor film quality, leading to low device efficiency, especially of perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) employing a thin perovskite film as the emission layer. Herein, 1,4-phenyldimethylammonium dibromide (phDMADBr), which has ammonium cations (NH₃⁺) on both terminals, is introduced as the additive in the precursor solution. It is proved that phDMADBr can improve the film coverage; meanwhile, it also presents a more intense passivation effect on point defects than a similar additive with a single NH₃⁺ terminal. As demonstrated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations, phDMADBr tends to anchor onto the Br-dangling bond with both NH₃⁺ tails and enhances the adhesion to the perovskite grain surface. The exposed hydrophobic aryl also protects the perovskite from detrimental environmental factors. Correspondingly, the maximum luminance (L_max), current efficiency (CE), and device stability of the PeLEDs are enhanced. This work offers special guidance for screening passivation additives for inorganic perovskites.

Key Factors Governing the External Quantum Efficiency of Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Organic Light-Emitting Devices: Evidence from Machine Learning

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials enable organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) to exhibit high external quantum efficiency (EQE), as they can fully utilize singlets and triplets. Despite the high theoretical limit in EQE of TADF OLEDs, the reported values of EQE in the literature vary a lot. Hence, it is critical to quantify the effects of the factors on device EQE based on data-driven approaches. Herein, we use machine learning (ML) algorithms to map the relationship between the material/device structural factors and the EQE. We established the dataset from a variety of experimental reports. Four algorithms are employed, among which the neural network performs best in predicting the EQE. The root-mean-square errors are 1.96 and 3.39% for the training and test sets. Based on the correlation and the feature importance studies, key factors governing the device EQE are screened out. These results provide essential guidance for material screening and experimental device optimization of TADF OLEDs.

Stable and Efficient Red-Emitting Perovskite Cross-Shaped Nanoplates

The stable cross-shaped CsPbI₃ nanoplates (NPs) with red emission were achieved by chemical synthesis with the assistance of YCl₃. Y³⁺ replacing Pb²⁺ results in the anisotropic growth of the CsPbI₃ nanocrystal to form NPs. Four corners of the NPs dissolved, thus forming the cross-shaped NPs. The emission of NPs was shifted from near-infrared (690 nm) to red emission (640 nm) as the dopant amount of Y³⁺ increased. Y³⁺ widens the width of the bandgap, which is also proved by first-principles calculations. In addition, the Cl^- passivated the surface defects of the NPs, suppressing the nonradiative recombination. The NPs showed remarkable high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) of 96%. PLQY is even more than 60% when NPs have been stored in a glovebox for more than 90 days. The NPs with adjustable wavelength and enhanced stability have a huge application potential in the field of a high-definition display.

The Improvement of the Performance of Sky-Blue OLEDs by Decreasing Interface Traps and Balancing Carriers with PSVA Treatment

The mitigation of interfacial charge accumulation in solution-processed organic light-emitting diodes (s-OLEDs) is an effective method to improve device performance. In this study, the polar solvent vapor annealing (PSVA) method was used to treat two layers in s-OLED, PEDOT:PSS and mCP:DMAC-DPS emitting layers, separately, to optimize the carrier transmission and balance. After the double-layer PSVA treatment, the current efficiency increased, the lifetime of the device is improved, the efficiency roll-off alleviated from 33.3% to 26.6%, and the maximum brightness increased by 31.3%. It is worth mentioning that the work function of the EML interface reduced by 0.36 eV, and the initial injection voltage of the electrons also reduced. Simulating the solubility of the LUMO and HOMO molecule parts of the mCP and DMAC-DPS, it was found that the LUMO parts had stronger polarity and higher solubility in polar solution than the HOMO parts. By comparing the untreated luminescent layer films, it was found that the PSVA treatment improved the uniformity of the film morphology. We may infer that a more ordered molecular arrangement enhances carrier transport as the LUMO parts tend to be close to the surface and the reduced local state traps on the EML surface promote electron injection. According to the experimental results, the injection of holes and electrons is enhanced from both sides of the EML, respectively, and the charge accumulated at the interface of s-OLEDs is significantly reduced due to the improvement of carrier-transported characteristics.

Different Effects of Lard and Vegetable Blend Oil on Intestinal Microorganisms, Enzyme Activity and Blood Routine in Mice

The intake of moderate oils and fats is necessary to maintain the body's energy balance, and the fatty acid composition of different oils and fats varies in their nutrition and function. The study aimed to investigate the effects of lard and vegetable blend oil on gut microbiota, intestinal enzyme activities, and blood routine. Kunming mice were assigned to the three groups: (1) Control group (CK) was gavage administration with distilled water, (2) Plant oil group (ZWY) was gavage administration with edible vegetable blend oil, (3) Lard group (DWY) was gavage administration with lard. After 42 days, microbiological, digestive enzymes, and blood routine were performed. Compared with the CK group, Escherichia coli, Lactobacilli, and Bifidobacteria were significantly decreased (p < 0.05), the activities of protease, cellulase, amylase, and xylanase were markedly reduced (p < 0.05), the hemoglobin was significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the ZWY group and DWY groups, and the hematocrit was increased in the ZWY group (p < 0.05), while other routine blood indices were increased (p > 0.05). Compared to the ZWY group, the activity of cellulase and amylase were significantly increased (p < 0.05), the intestinal microorganism and the routine blood indexes had no significant difference in the DWY group. Lard and vegetable blend oil diet affected the composition of the intestinal microorganisms, and the functions of digestive enzymes. Meanwhile, the levels of digestive enzymes may be correlated with the intestinal microbiota.

Polarization conversion in the caviton driven by linearly polarized lasers

In one-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations of a plasma irradiated by linearly polarized lasers from both sides of boundaries, it is found that there is an appreciable growth of the electromagnetic field in cavitons in the transverse direction perpendicular to the direction of polarization, which indicates the polarization conversion of the electromagnetic field in cavitons. This paper demonstrates the mechanism of this phenomenon based on parametric resonance induced by ponderomotive force with twice the frequency of the electromagnetic radiation in the caviton. We develop a theoretical model and verify it with simulation results. This phenomenon contributes to the heating and acceleration of particles and traps more EM energy in cavitons.

Novel fluorescent self-assembling material with gel properties: ion recognition and energy transfer

A novel fabrication strategy for preparing fluorescent nanomaterials has been proposed based on supramolecular self-assembly complexes and energy transfer. Here a dual acylhydrazone-functionalized molecule (DAF) was designed and synthesized by...

Improved phase purity and film quality in quasi-2D perovskite light-emitting diodes by an additive with the trimethacrylate group

By adding TMPTA to the anti-solvent, the phase purity of the perovskite and the performance of the device are improved.

High-Performance Near-Infrared Photodetectors Based on the Synergy Effect of Short Wavelength Light Filter and Long Wavelength Response of a Perovskite/Polymer Hybrid Structure

Near-infrared photodetectors (NIR-PDs) are widely used in communications, biomedical imaging, and national defense. Here we report a new strategy to prepare a short wavelength light filter based NIR-PDs by introducing an interface layer between the perovskite layer and the polymer layer to achieve the selective passage of carriers. Through the synergistic effect of the perovskite and the interface layer, the short wavelength light component in the signal spectrum is effectively filtered out. The organic polymer layer with a bulk heterojunction structure is applied to realize the absorption and conversion of near-infrared light. The prepared device achieves a maximum external quantum efficiency of 83.7% without bias, a high specific detectivity of 1.52 × 10¹³ Jones, an NIR responsivity of 0.577A/W, and a short response time of 1.73/0.97 μs within the detection range from 770 to 900 nm. All these properties show great advantages compared with other perovskite/polymer hybrid NIR photodetectors that have been reported. This innovative strategy provides a new way to prepare high-performance near-infrared photodetectors.