The therapeutic potential of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen and Polygalae Radix in insomnia management: Insights from gut microbiota and serum metabolomics techniques

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ziziphi Spinosae Semen and Polygalae Radix (ZSS-PR) constitute a traditional Chinese herbal combination with notable applications in clinical and experimental settings due to their evident sedative and calming effects. Aligned with traditional Chinese medicine principles, Ziziphi Spinosae Semen supports cardiovascular health, nourishes the liver, and induces mental tranquillity. Simultaneously, Polygalae Radix elicits calming effects, fosters clear thinking, and reinstates proper coordination between the heart and kidneys. ZSS-PR is commonly employed as a therapeutic intervention for various insomnia types, demonstrating distinct clinical efficacy. Our previous study findings provide evidence that ZSS-PR administration significantly reduces sleep onset latency, increases overall sleep duration, and improves abnormal neurotransmitter levels in a murine insomnia model.

AIM OF STUDY

This investigation aimed to scrutinize the intrinsic regulatory mechanism of ZSS-PR in managing insomnia using gut microbiota and serum metabolomics techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice were given DL-4-Chlorophenylalanine to induce insomnia and then treated with ZSS-PR. The open-field test assessed the animals' spontaneous activity. Concentrations of neurotransmitters, endocrine hormones, and cytokines in the duodenum were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, and brain histopathology was evaluated with H&E staining. The impact of ZSS-PR on the metabolic profile was examined by liquid chromatography couped to high resolution mass spectrometry, and 16S rDNA sequencing was used to study the influence of ZSS-PR on the gut microbiota. Additionally, the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) was analyzed by GC-MS. Finally, correlation analysis investigated relationships between biochemical markers, metabolites, SCFAs, and gut microbiota.

RESULTS

ZSS-PR treatment significantly increased movement time and distance in mice with insomnia and improved pathological impairments in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. It also restored abnormal levels of biochemical markers in the gut of insomnia-afflicted mice, including 5-hydroxytryptamine, dopamine, gastrin, melatonin, tumour necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β. Metabolomics findings showed that ZSS-PR had a significant restorative effect on 15 endogenous metabolites in mice with insomnia. Furthermore, ZSS-PR primarily influenced five metabolic pathways, such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis, glutamine, and glutamate metabolism. Additionally, gut microbiota analysis revealed notable alterations in both diversity and microbial composition after ZSS-PR treatment. These changes were primarily attributed to the relative abundances of microbiota, including Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, Fusobacteriota, Muribaculaceae_unclassified, and Ligilactobacillus. The results of SCFAs analysis demonstrated that ZSS-PR effectively restored abnormal levels of acetic acid, propionic acid, isobutyric acid, butyric acid, isovaleric acid, and valeric acid in insomniac mice. Subsequent correlation analysis revealed that microbiota show obvious correlations with both biochemical markers and metabolites.

CONCLUSIONS

The results provide compelling evidence that ZSS-PR effectively mitigates abnormal activity, reduces cerebral pathological changes, and restores abnormal levels of neurotransmitters, endocrine hormones, and cytokines in mice with insomnia. The underlying mechanism is intricately linked to the modulation of gut microbiota and endogenous metabolic pathways.

In vivo absorption, in vitro simulated digestion and fecal fermentation properties of polysaccharides from Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum Cum Alumine and their effects on human gut microbiota

Polysaccharides from Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum Cum Alumine (PPA) have various biological activities, but their properties after oral administration are not clear. In this study, the absorption, digestion and fermentation properties of PPA were studied using in vivo fluorescence tracking, in vitro simulated digestion and fecal fermentation experiments. The absorption experiment showed that fluorescence was only observed in the gastrointestinal system, indicating that PPA could not be absorbed. Simulated digestion results showed that there were no significant changes in the molecular weight, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectrum, monosaccharides and reducing sugar of PPA during the digestion process, showing that the overall structure of PPA was not damaged. However, the carbohydrate gel electrophoresis bands of PPA enzymatic hydrolysates after simulated digestion were significantly changed, indicating that simulated digestion might impact the configuration of PPA. In vitro fermentation showed that PPA could be degraded by microorganisms to produce short chain fatty acids, leading to a decrease in pH value. PPA can promote the proliferation of Bacteroideaceae, Megasphaera, Bacteroideaceae, and Bifidobacteriaceae, and inhibit the growth of Desulfobacteriota and Enterobacteriaceae. The results indicated that PPA could treat diseases by regulating gut microbiota, providing a scientific basis for the application and development of PPA.

Current-Controllable and Reversible Multi-Resistance-State Based on Domain Wall Number Transition in 2D Ferromagnet Fe3GeTe2

Controlling the multi-state switching is significantly essential for the extensive utilization of 2D ferromagnet in magnetic racetrack memories, topological devices, and neuromorphic computing devices. The development of all-electric functional nanodevices with multi-state switching and a rapid reset remains challenging. Herein, to imitate the potentiation and depression process of biological synapses, a full-current strategy is unprecedently established by the controllable resistance-state switching originating from the spin configuration rearrangement by domain wall number modulation in Fe3GeTe2. In particular, a strong correlation is uncovered in the reduction of domain wall number with the corresponding resistance decreasing by in-situ Lorentz transmission electron microscopy. Interestingly, the magnetic state is reversed instantly to the multi-domain wall state under a single pulse current with a higher amplitude, attributed to the rapid thermal demagnetization by simulation. Based on the neuromorphic computing system with full-current-driven artificial Fe3GeTe2 synapses with multi-state switching, a high accuracy of ≈91% is achieved in the handwriting image recognition pattern. The results identify 2D ferromagnet as an intriguing candidate for future advanced neuromorphic spintronics.

Effect of postoperative oxygen therapy regimen modification on oxygenation in patients with acute type A aortic dissection

Objective

In this study, we investigated the effect of various oxygen therapy regimens on oxygenation in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (AAD).

Methods

A quasi-randomized controlled trial was conducted, in which patients with AAD hospitalized for surgery from June to September 2021 were assigned to the control group (patients received conventional oxygen therapy after postoperative mechanical ventilation, weaning, and extubation) and those who were admitted from October to December 2021 were assigned to the observation group [patients underwent optimally adjusted therapy based on the treatment of the control group, which mainly included prioritized elevation of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and restricted use of the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2)].The postoperative oxygenation index, blood gas analysis, and duration of mechanical ventilation were compared between the two groups.

Results

There were significant differences in oxygenation observed at 2 h postoperatively between the groups. 12, 24, and 72 h postoperatively, the oxygenation index varied significantly between the two groups. There were statistically significant differences in the time effects of the oxygenation index and PaO2 between the two groups, as well as significant differences in the length of stay in the intensive care unit.

Conclusion

For the postoperative care of patients with AAD, it is suggested that the minimum FiO2 required for oxygenation of patients be maintained. In addition, it is possible to enhance PEEP as a priority when PaO2 is low.

Distinct skyrmion phases at room temperature in two-dimensional ferromagnet Fe3GaTe2

Distinct skyrmion phases at room temperature hosted by one material offer additional degree of freedom for the design of topology-based compact and energetically-efficient spintronic devices. The field has been extended to low-dimensional magnets with the discovery of magnetism in two-dimensional van der Waals magnets. However, creating multiple skyrmion phases in 2D magnets, especially above room temperature, remains a major challenge. Here, we report the experimental observation of mixed-type skyrmions, exhibiting both Bloch and hybrid characteristics, in a room-temperature ferromagnet Fe3GaTe2. Analysis of the magnetic intensities under varied imaging conditions coupled with complementary simulations reveal that spontaneous Bloch skyrmions exist as the magnetic ground state with the coexistence of hybrid stripes domain, on account of the interplay between the dipolar interaction and the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction. Moreover, hybrid skyrmions are created and their coexisting phases with Bloch skyrmions exhibit considerably high thermostability, enduring up to 328 K. The findings open perspectives for 2D spintronic devices incorporating distinct skyrmion phases at room temperature.

Unveiling the functional heterogeneity of cytokine-primed human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells through single-cell RNA sequencing

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold immense promise for use in immunomodulation and regenerative medicine. However, their inherent heterogeneity makes it difficult to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes for a specific clinical disease. Primed MSCs containing a certain cytokine can enhance their particular functions, thereby increasing their therapeutic potential for related diseases. Therefore, understanding the characteristic changes and underlying mechanisms of MSCs primed by various cytokines is highly important.

RESULTS

In this study, we aimed to reveal the cellular heterogeneity, functional subpopulations, and molecular mechanisms of MSCs primed with IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, IL-15, and IL-17 using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Our results demonstrated that cytokine priming minimized the heterogeneity of the MSC transcriptome, while the expression of MSC surface markers exhibited only slight changes. Notably, compared to IL-6, IL-15, and IL-17; IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-4 priming, which stimulated a significantly greater number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Functional analysis, which included Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses, indicated that IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-4-primed hUC-MSCs are involved in interferon-mediated immune-related processes, leukocyte migration, chemotaxis potential, and extracellular matrix and cell adhesion, respectively. Moreover, an investigation of various biological function scores demonstrated that IFN-γ-primed hUC-MSCs exhibit strong immunomodulatory ability, TNF-α-primed hUC-MSCs exhibit high chemotaxis potential, and IL-4-primed hUC-MSCs express elevated amounts of collagen. Finally, we observed that cytokine priming alters the distribution of functional subpopulations of MSCs, and these subpopulations exhibit various potential biological functions. Taken together, our study revealed the distinct regulatory effects of cytokine priming on MSC heterogeneity, biological function, and functional subpopulations at the single-cell level.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the inflammatory priming of MSCs, paving the way for their precise treatment in clinical applications.

Primary perineal endometriosis - a case report and literature review

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease caused by the implantation of active endometrial cells outside the uterine cavity. In most cases, endometriosis occurs in the pelvic area, such as the ovary, Douglas' pouch, or uterine sacral ligament. Some rare cases of extrapelvic endometriosis can also occur in the perineum, urinary system, gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, chest, subcutaneous tissue, and skin. Endometriosis of the perineum is usually secondary to obstetric trauma, such as perineal laceration or episiotomy. To date, few cases of spontaneous perineal endometriosis have been reported. Herein, we report a rare case of spontaneous deep perineal endometriosis. Notably, the patient had typical symptoms of regular pain during menstruation with no history of delivery or perineal trauma. The patient recovered well after postoperative gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist injection.

Pharmacokinetic evaluation of Sinisan containing vinegar-processed products in depressive rats, a comprehensive perspective of 'individual herb, herb-pair, and herbal formula'

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As a classical formula for the treatment of depression, the clinical application of vinegar-processed products of Bupleuri Radix (Bupleurum chinense DC., BR) and Paeoniae Radix Alba (Paeonia lactiflora Pall., PRA) contained in Sinisan (SNS) is still controversial.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Three levels of 'individual herb, herb-pair, and herbal formula' were employed to investigate whether and how the processing of main drugs affected the active constituents of pharmacokinetics in SNS, as well as their impacts on the hepatic CYP450 enzyme.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats were subjected to construct a chronic unpredictable mild stimulation (CUMS) model. A rapid and sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) analytical method was developed and validated for simultaneously quantitative evaluation of thirteen potential active compounds of SNS in depressive rat plasma, and successfully applied to a holistic comparison of pharmacokinetics. The differences in pharmacokinetic parameters based on three different forms of drug composition from BR and PRA before and after vinegar-processing were compared. Meanwhile, qRT-PCR and Western Blot were utilized to explore the metabolic activity of three isoforms of CYP450 enzyme scattered in the livers of depressive rats.

RESULTS

The characteristic pharmacokinetics profiles of thirteen representative constituents in CUMS rats were influenced by vinegar-processing of BR and PRA and/or the compatibility. In detail, there were significant differences in the Cmax, AUC0-24, AUC0-∞, t1/2, and MRT0-24 of most constituents among the three different forms of drug composition from BR and PRA before and after vinegar-processing, with the most obvious changes in six constituents from the adjuvant and mediating guide drugs. And also, the pharmacokinetic parameters of seven constituents from BR and PRA in SNS containing vinegar-processed products obviously changed after compatibility. Additionally, the mRNA and protein levels of CYP1A2, CYP2E1, and CYP3A1 were observed to increase significantly with the processing of BR and PRA and the combination/formulation.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, SNS containing vinegar-processed products was more conducive to the absorption of most activated constituents compared to the original formula in vivo. The vinegar-processing of BR and PRA and the compatibility co-contribute to the pharmacokinetic variability of active compounds of SNS in CUMS rats, and the extent of contribution varies among drugs, which might be related to the regulation of the hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes. The finding of the investigation could help to better understand how active compounds metabolized in vivo, which might be helpful for guiding the clinical application of SNS containing vinegar-processed products.

[Protective effect of Liujing Toutong Tablets on rats with permanent cerebral ischemia via NF-κB signaling pathway]

This study investigated the neuroprotective effects and underlying mechanism of Liujing Toutong Tablets(LJTT) on a rat model of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion(pMCAO). The pMCAO model was established using the suture method. Eighty-four male SPF-grade SD rats were randomly divided into a sham operation group, a model group, a nimodipine group(0.020 g·kg~(-1)), and high-, medium-, and low-dose LJTT groups(2.8, 1.4, and 0.7 g·kg~(-1)). The Longa score, adhesive removal test and laser speckle contrast imaging technique were used to evaluate the degree of neurological functional impairment and changes in local cerebral blood flow. The survival and mortality of rats in each group were recorded daily. After seven days of continuous administration following the model induction, the rats in each group were euthanized, and brain tissue and blood samples were collected for corresponding parameter measurements. Nissl staining was used to examine pathological changes in brain tissue neurons. The levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α), interleukin-6(IL-6), IL-1β, vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF), calcitonin gene-related peptide(CGRP), beta-endorphin(β-EP), and endogenous nitric oxide(NO) in rat serum were measured using specific assay kits. The entropy weight method was used to analyze the weights of various indicators. The protein expression levels of nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB), inhibitor kappaB alpha(IκBα), phosphorylated IκBα(p-IκBα), and phosphorylated inhibitor of NF-κB kinase alpha(p-IKKα) in brain tissue were determined using Western blot. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the protein expression of chemokine-like factor 1(CKLF1) and C-C chemokine receptor 5(CCR5) in rat brain tissue. Compared with the sham operation group, the model group showed significantly higher neurological functional impairment scores, prolonged adhesive removal time, decreased cerebral blood flow, increased neuronal damage, reduced survival rate, significantly increased levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CGRP, and NO in serum, significantly decreased levels of VEGF and β-EP, significantly increased expression levels of NF-κB p65, p-IκBα/IκBα, and p-IKKα in rat brain tissue, and significantly upregulated protein expression of CKLF1 and CCR5. Compared with the model group, the high-dose LJTT group significantly improved the neurological functional score of pMCAO rats after oral administration for 7 days. LJTT at all doses significantly reduced adhesive removal time and restored cerebral blood flow. The high-and medium-dose LJTT groups significantly improved neuronal damage. The LJTT groups at all doses showed reduced levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CGRP, and NO in rat serum, increased VEGF and β-EP levels, and significantly decreased expression levels of NF-κB p65, p-IκBα/IκBα, p-IKKα, and CCR5 protein in rat brain tissue. The entropy weight analysis revealed that CGRP and β-EP were significantly affected during the model induction, and LJTT exhibited a strong effect in reducing the release of inflammatory factors such as TNF-α and IL-1β. LJTT may exert a neuroprotective effect on rats with permanent cerebral ischemia by reducing neuroinflammatory damage, and its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway and the regulation of the CKLF1/CCR5 axis. Additionally, LJTT may exert certain analgesic effects by reducing CGRP and NO levels and increasing β-EP levels.

High-Density Nanopore Confined Vortical Dipoles and Magnetic Domains on Hierarchical Macro/Meso/Micro/Nano Porous Ultra-Light Graphited Carbon for Adsorbing Electromagnetic Wave

Atomic-level structural editing is a promising way for facile synthesis and accurately constructing dielectric/magnetic synergistic attenuated hetero-units in electromagnetic wave absorbers (EWAs), but it is hard to realize. Herein, utilizing the rapid explosive volume expansion of the CoFe-bimetallic energetic metallic triazole framework (CoFe@E-MTF) during the heat treatment, the effective absorption bandwidth and the maximum absorption intensity of a series of atomic CoFe-inserted hierarchical porous carbon (CoFe@HPC) EWAs can be modified under the diverse synthetic temperature. Under the filler loading of 15 wt%, the fully covered X and Ku bands at 3 and 2.5 mm for CoFe@HPC800 and the superb minimum reflection loss (RLmin ) of -53.15 dB and specific reflection loss (SRL) of -101.24 dB mg-1 mm-1 for CoFe@HPC1000 are achieved. More importantly, the single-atomic chemical bonding among Co─Fe on the nanopores is captured by extended X-ray absorption fine structure, which reveals the formation mechanism of nanopore-confined vortical dipoles and magnetic domains. This work heralds the infinite possibilities of atomic editing EWA in the future.

Recent advances in regulating lipid metabolism to prevent coronary heart disease

The pathogenesis of coronary heart disease is a highly complex process, with lipid metabolism disorders being closely linked to its development. Therefore, this paper analyzes the various factors that influence lipid metabolism, including obesity, genes, intestinal microflora, and ferroptosis, through a comprehensive review of basic and clinical studies. Additionally, this paper delves deeply into the pathways and patterns of coronary heart disease. Based on these findings, it proposes various intervention pathways and therapeutic methods, such as the regulation of lipoprotein enzymes, lipid metabolites, and lipoprotein regulatory factors, as well as the modulation of intestinal microflora and the inhibition of ferroptosis. Ultimately, this paper aims to offer new ideas for the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease.

Dopant Engineering of Flexible MNPs/TPU/PPy Core-Shell Films for Controllable Electromagnetic Interference Shielding

Intrinsically conductive polymers have attracted much attention in the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding field because of their high conductivity and favorable flexibility. Delocalized π-electrons migrating along the conjugated long-chain structures can form a current. Based on this special conductive mechanism, the doping process significantly influences the conductivity and EMI shielding efficiency (SE). However, it is challenging to investigate the influence of the doping process on EMI shielding performance, which would enable the optimization of dopant selection. In this study, dopant engineering was explored for controllable conductivity, EMI SE, and mechanical properties. Polypyrrole (PPy) doped with various dopants serves as a conductive coating owing to its adjustable conductivity and abundant functional groups. Elastic thermoplastic polyurethane was chosen as the porous framework because of its high tensile strength, and magnetic nanoparticles supplied the magnetic loss in the 3D network. Eventually, the composite film showed the best properties when PPy was doped with sodium p-toluenesulfonate. The film exhibited an average SE of 26.3 dB in the X band and a specific SE of 1563.17 dB cm² g^-1 with a thickness of merely 0.2 mm. This film withstood a tensile stress of 16.0 MPa, while the breaking elongation ratio reached 538.0%. After 10,000 cyclic bending, 92.3% of the EMI shielding property was retained. In summary, this study highlights the most suitable dopant for EMI shielding applications and provides a prospective alternative for advanced, flexible, and smart devices.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum attenuates Coxsackievirus B3-induced pancreatitis through the BAX/BCL2/CASP3 signaling pathway

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is a lactic acid bacterium widely used in food production. Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) is an important human pathogen associated with acute pancreatitis development, and no antiviral therapeutics or vaccines are approved to treat or prevent its infection. However, whether L. plantarum could inhibit CVB3 infection remains unclear. Here, L. plantarum FLPL05 showed antiviral activity against CVB3 infection in vivo and in vitro. Pretreatment with L. plantarum FLPL05 reduced serum amylase levels, CVB3 viral load in the pancreas, serum pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and macrophage infiltration in CVB3-infected mice. In mice, L. plantarum FLPL05 inhibited CVB3-induced pancreas apoptosis via the B cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (BCL2)/BCL2-associated X protein (BAX)/caspase-3 (CASP3) signaling pathway. Furthermore, L. plantarum FLPL05 reduced CVB3 replication, protected cells from the cytopathic effect of CVB3 infection, and inhibited cell apoptosis. Moreover, L. plantarum FLPL05's exopolysaccharide (EPS) had activity against CVB3 in vitro, reducing the CVB3 titer and improving cell activity. Therefore, L. plantarum FLPL05 pretreatment improved CVB3-induced pancreatitis by partially reversing pancreatitis, which might be associated with EPS. Consequently, L. plantarum FLPL05 could be a potential probiotic with antiviral activity against CVB3.

An Ion-Engineering Strategy to Design Hollow FeCo/CoFe2 O4 Microspheres for High-Performance Microwave Absorption

Although assembled hollow architectures have received considerable attention as lightweight functional materials, their uncontrollable self-aggregation and tedious synthetic methods hinder precise construction and modulation. Therefore, this study proposes a bi-ion synergistic regulation strategy to design assembled hollow-shaped cobalt spinel oxide microspheres. Dominated by the coordination-etching effects of F^- and the hydrolysis-complex contributions of NH₄ ⁺ , the unique construction is formed attributed to the dynamic cycles between metal complexes and precipitates. Meanwhile, their basic structures are perfectly retained after reduction treatment, enabling FeCo/CoFe₂ O₄ bimagnetic system to be obtained. Subsequently, in-depth analyses are conducted. Investigations reveal that multiscale magnetic coupling networks and enriched air-material heterointerfaces contribute to the remarkable magnetic-dielectric behavior, supported by the advanced off-axis electron holography technique. Consequently, the obtained FeCo/CoFe₂ O₄ composites exhibit excellent microwave absorption performances with minimal reflection losses (RL_min ) as high as -51.6 dB, an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 4.7 GHz, and a matched thickness of 1.4 mm. Thus, this work provides an informative guide for rationally assembling building blocks into hollow architectures as advanced microwave absorbers through bi-ion and even multi-ion synergistic engineering mechanisms.

Topological spin texture in the pseudogap phase of a high-Tc superconductor

An outstanding challenge in condensed-matter-physics research over the past three decades has been to understand the pseudogap (PG) phenomenon of the high-transition-temperature (high-T_c) copper oxides. A variety of experiments have indicated a symmetry-broken state below the characteristic temperature T* (refs. ^1-8). Among them, although the optical study⁵ indicated the mesoscopic domains to be small, all these experiments lack nanometre-scale spatial resolution, and the microscopic order parameter has so far remained elusive. Here we report, to our knowledge, the first direct observation of topological spin texture in an underdoped cuprate, YBa₂Cu₃O_6.5, in the PG state, using Lorentz transmission electron microscopy (LTEM). The spin texture features vortex-like magnetization density in the CuO₂ sheets, with a relatively large length scale of about 100 nm. We identify the phase-diagram region in which the topological spin texture exists and demonstrate the ortho-II oxygen order and suitable sample thickness to be crucial for its observation by our technique. We also discuss an intriguing interplay observed among the topological spin texture, PG state, charge order and superconductivity.

Integrated Lipidomics and Network Pharmacology Reveal Mechanism of Memory Impairment Improvement by Yuanzhi San

Memory impairment (MI) is caused by a variety of causes, endangering human health. Yuanzhi San (YZS) is a common prescription used for the treatment of MI, but its mechanism of action needs further exploration. The purpose of this study was to investigate this mechanism through lipidomics and network pharmacology. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were divided randomly into the normal, model, and YZS groups. The rats were gavaged with aluminum chloride (200 mg/kg) and intraperitoneally injected with D-galactose (400 mg/kg) every day for 60 days, except for the normal group. From the 30th day, YZS (13.34 g/kg) was gavaged once a day to the rats in the YZS group. Post-YZS treatment, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS) analysis was implemented to conduct a lipidomics study in the hippocampus of rats with memory impairment induced by aluminum chloride and D-galactose. Eight differential metabolites were identified between the normal group and the model group, whereas between the model group and the YZS group, 20 differential metabolites were established. Metabolic pathway analysis was performed on the aforementioned lipid metabolites, all of which were involved in sphingolipid and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Furthermore, serum pharmacochemistry analysis of YZS was carried out at the early stage of our research, which discovered 62 YZS prototype components. The results of the network pharmacology analysis showed that they were related to 1030 genes, and 451 disease genes were related to MI. There were 73 intersections between the YZS and MI targets. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that these targets were closely related to the sphingolipid metabolic, calcium signaling, and other pathways. The integrated approach of lipidomics and network pharmacology was then focused on four major targets, including PHK2, GBA, SPTLC1, and AChE, as well as their essential metabolites (glucosylceramide, N-acylsphingosine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylcholine) and pathways (sphingolipid, glycerophospholipid, and arachidonic acid metabolism). The significant affinity of the primary target for YZS was confirmed by molecular docking. The obtained results revealed that the combination of lipidomics and network pharmacology could be used to determine the effect of YZS on the MI biological network and metabolic state, and evaluate the drug efficacy of YZS and its related mechanisms of action.

Interleukin-18-primed human umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem cells achieve superior therapeutic efficacy for severe viral pneumonia via enhancing T-cell immunosuppression

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) treatments are still urgently needed for critically and severely ill patients. Human umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) infusion has therapeutic benefits in COVID-19 patients; however, uncertain therapeutic efficacy has been reported in severe patients. In this study, we selected an appropriate cytokine, IL-18, based on the special cytokine expression profile in severe pneumonia of mice induced by H1N1virus to prime hUC-MSCs in vitro and improve the therapeutic effect of hUC-MSCs in vivo. In vitro, we demonstrated that IL-18-primed hUC-MSCs (IL18-hUCMSC) have higher proliferative ability than non-primed hUC-MSCs (hUCMSCcon). In addition, VCAM-1, MMP-1, TGF-β1, and some chemokines (CCL2 and CXCL12 cytokines) are more highly expressed in IL18-hUCMSCs. We found that IL18-hUCMSC significantly enhanced the immunosuppressive effect on CD3⁺ T-cells. In vivo, we demonstrated that IL18-hUCMSC infusion could reduce the body weight loss caused by a viral infection and significantly improve the survival rate. Of note, IL18-hUCMSC can also significantly attenuate certain clinical symptoms, including reduced activity, ruffled fur, hunched backs, and lung injuries. Pathologically, IL18-hUCMSC transplantation significantly enhanced the inhibition of inflammation, viral load, fibrosis, and cell apoptosis in acute lung injuries. Notably, IL18-hUCMSC treatment has a superior inhibitory effect on T-cell exudation and proinflammatory cytokine secretion in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Altogether, IL-18 is a promising cytokine that can prime hUC-MSCs to improve the efficacy of precision therapy against viral-induced pneumonia, such as COVID-19.

Current-Induced Magnetic Skyrmions with Controllable Polarities in the Helical Phase

We report the current-induced creation of magnetic skyrmions in a chiral magnet FeGe nanostructure by using in situ Lorentz transmission electron microscopy. We show that magnetic skyrmions with controllable polarity can be transferred from the helical ground state simply by controlling the direction of the current flow at zero magnetic fields. The force analysis and symmetry consideration, backed up by micromagnetic simulations, well explain the experimental results, where magnetic skyrmions are created because of the edge instability of the helical state in the presence of spin-transfer torque. The on-demand generation of skyrmions and control of their polarity by electric current without the need for a magnetic field will enable novel purely electric-controlled skyrmion devices.

Controllable Topological Magnetic Transformations in the Thickness-Tunable van der Waals Ferromagnet Fe5GeTe2

Recent observations of topological meron textures in two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) magnetic materials have attracted considerable research interest for both fundamental physics and spintronic applications. However, manipulating the meron textures and realizing the topological transformations, which allow for exploring emergent electromagnetic behaviors, remain largely unexplored in 2D magnets. In this work, utilizing real-space imaging and micromagnetic simulations, we reveal temperature- and thickness-dependent topological magnetic transformations among domain walls, meron textures, and stripe domain in Fe₅GeTe₂ (FGT) lamellae. The key mechanism of the magnetic transformations can be attributed to the temperature-induced change of exchange stiffness constant within layers and uniaxial magnetic anisotropy, while the magnetic dipole interaction as governed by sample thickness is crucial to affect the critical transformation temperature and stripe period. Our findings provide reliable insights into the origin and manipulation of topological spin textures in 2D vdW ferromagnets.

Magnetic-Field-Assisted Diffusion Motion of Magnetic Skyrmions

Studies of the diffusion dynamics of magnetic skyrmions have generated widespread interest in both fundamental physics and spintronics applications. Here we report the magnetic-field-assisted diffusion motion of skyrmions in a microstructured chiral FeGe magnet. We demonstrate the enhancement of diffusion motion of magnetic skyrmions that is manipulated and driven by an oscillatory magnetic field. Further, the directed diffusion of skyrmions is observed when an in-plane field was introduced to break the symmetry of the system. Finally, we demonstrate the application of a magnetic field can induce an arrangements transition of skyrmions assemble in microstructure, that is, from a stiff hexagonal lattice to a weak interactional isotropic state. By using a step-ascended magnetic field we finished the observation of a particle-like diffusive motion for magnetic skyrmions that transport from high-concentration regions to low-concentration regions and the diffusion flux is proportional to the concentration gradient followed Fick's law.

Magnetic Interacted Interaction Effect in MXene Skeleton: Enhanced Thermal-Generation for Electromagnetic Interference Shielding

With the rapid advancements of portable and wearable equipment, high-efficiency electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials are highly entailed to eliminate radiated electromagnetic pollution. Herein, by assembling hexagonal SrFe₁₂ O₁₉ flakes into a Ti₃ C₂ T_x MXene/MWCNT substrate, a magnetized Ti₃ C₂ T_x -based film is successfully fabricated by a facile filtration approach. Carbon nanotubes are used as isolation agents to realize the submicroscopic dispersion of MXene and SrFe₁₂ O₁₉ . The obtained MXene/MWCNTs/SrFe₁₂ O₁₉ film shows a high electrical conductivity of 438 S cm^-1 and an excellent EMI shielding effectiveness of 62.9 dB in X-band at a thickness of only 40 µm. Benefiting from a strong magnetic response ability and an expanded magnetic coupling space, hexagonal SrFe₁₂ O₁₉ sheets can efficiently consume incident magnetic field energy by domain wall migration and the ferromagnetic resonance effect. Boosted EMI shielding performance can be achieved by improving the magnetic loss in the Ti₃ C₂ T_x MXene/MWCNTs/SrFe₁₂ O₁₉ film, preventing the secondary reflection of electromagnetic waves. Meanwhile, magnetized MXene-based films display the freestanding and flexible features and are suitable for installation in electric devices. It is anticipated that this strategy offers new ideas for designing EMI shielding films and in broadening potential utility of MXene-based materials.

Spectrum-effect relationship between HPLC fingerprints and inhibitory activity in MUC5AC mucin of Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum Cum Alumine

Purpose: To investigate the spectrum-effect relationship between HPLC fingerprints and the inhibitory effect on MUC5AC mucin of Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum Cum Alumine (PRPCA).Methods: The fingerprints of 20 PRPCA batches were established using HPLC and their similarities or differences were analyzed using hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). The inhibitory effects of MUC5AC mucin were evaluated in LPS-treated NCI-H292 cells. The spectrum-effect relationship between common chromatographic peaks and MUC5AC inhibition was established using a partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA).Results: Fifteen common chromatographic peaks were identified by analyzing HPLC fingerprints, with uridine, tyrosine, uracil, and inosine found as possible markers to distinguish the PRPCA from different sources. Spectrum-effect relationship analysis showed that the chromatographic peaks 5, 6, 10 (vernine), 12 (5-hydroxymethylfurfural), 14 (tryptophan) and 15 (adenosine) were closely associated with the inhibitory effect on MUC5AC mucin.Conclusion: The spectrum-effect relationship between HPLC fingerprints and the inhibitory effect on MUC5AC mucin of PRPCA was successfully established in the present study. Our findings further reveal the material basis of PRPCA and provide an effective method for its quality control.

Ultrahigh Density of Atomic CoFe-Electron Synergy in Noncontinuous Carbon Matrix for Highly Efficient Magnetic Wave Adsorption

Improving the atom utilization of metals and clarifying the M-M' interaction is both greatly significant in assembling high-performance ultra-light electromagnetic wave-absorbing materials. Herein, a high-temperature explosion strategy has been successfully applied to assemble the hierarchical porous carbon sponge with Co-Fe decoration via the pyrolysis of the energetic metal organic framework. The as-constructed hybrid displays a superior reflection loss (RL) value of - 57.7 dB and a specific RL value of - 192 dB mg^-1 mm^-1 at 12.08 GHz with a layer thickness of 2.0 mm (loading of 15 wt%). The off-axis electron hologram characterizes the highly distributed numerous polarized nanodomain variable capacitors, demonstrating the dipole and interfacial polarization along the edges of the nanopores. More importantly, the X-ray absorption spectroscopy analysis verifies the mutual interaction between the metal cluster and carbon matrix and the electronic coupling responsible for the greatly improved electromagnetic wave absorption.

A Reasonable Evaluation of Chuanxiong Rhizoma Processing with Wine through Comparative Pharmacokinetic Study of Bioactive Components: Dominant Effect on Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Model Rats

According to the ancient documents and Chinese herbal medicine processing experience, Chuanxiong Rhizoma was usually processed with yellow rice wine to improve efficacy. However, the relevant mechanisms are still unclear so far. In this study, a validated ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was used to compare the pharmacokinetics of four representative components in middle cerebral artery occlusion rats after oral administration of raw and wine-processed Chuanxiong Rhizoma. The neurobehavioral scores and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining were employed to evaluate the model. Biological samples were prepared by protein precipitation with methanol. All analytes were separated on an ACQUITY BEH C₁₈ column through gradient elution using acetonitrile and 0.01% of formic acid as mobile phase, and the flow rate was 0.3 mL/min. The results showed that the maximum plasma concentrations, the area values under the concentration-time curves of senkyunolide A, and ferulic acid in wine-processed Chuanxiong Rhizoma were all higher than in raw Chuanxiong Rhizoma, which were completely opposite to our previous studies in normal rats. Compared with normal rats, the theory that wine processing could enhance the efficacy of Chuanxiong Rhizoma may be better reflected in model rats.

Dimensional Design and Core-Shell Engineering of Nanomaterials for Electromagnetic Wave Absorption

Electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption materials possess exceptionally high EM energy loss efficiency. With vigorous developments in nanotechnology, such materials have exhibited numerous advanced EM functions, including radiation prevention and antiradar stealth. To achieve improved EM performance and multifunctionality, the elaborate control of microstructures has become an attractive research direction. By designing them as core-shell structures with different dimensions, the combined effects, such as interfacial polarization, conduction networks, magnetic coupling, and magnetic-dielectric synergy, can significantly enhance the EM wave absorption performance. Herein, the advances in low-dimensional core-shell EM wave absorption materials are outlined and a selection of the most remarkable examples is discussed. The derived key information regarding dimensional design, structural engineering, performance, and structure-function relationship are comprehensively summarized. Moreover, the investigation of the cutting-edge mechanisms is given particular attention. Additional applications, such as oxidation resistance and self-cleaning functions, are also introduced. Finally, insight into what may be expected from this rapidly expanding field and future challenges are presented.

Protective effects of hydroxy-α-sanshool from the pericarp of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. On D-galactose/AlCl3-induced Alzheimer's disease-like mice via Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways

Hydroxy-α-sanshool (HAS) is an unsaturated fatty acid amide from Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. with hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic effects, etc. In this study, results indicated that HAS effectively ameliorated spontaneous locomotion deficit of mice induced by D-galactose (D-gal) and AlCl₃ treatment in open field test. Results of Morris water maze test (MWM) showed that HAS significantly improved the spatial learning and memory ability of aging mice. Histopathological evaluations revealed that HAS markedly alleviated morphological changes and increased number of Nissl neurons in hippocampus of D-gal/AlCl₃-induced Alzheimer's disease (AD)-like mice. HAS markedly reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) production, and increased the activity of antioxidative enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT), showing an inhibitory effect on oxidative stress. Furthermore, HAS treatment obviously reversed the inhibitory expressions of mRNA and protein of HO-1 and Nrf2 in the hippocampus of AD mice, suggesting that neuroprotective effects of HAS against oxidative stress might be mediated by the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Meanwhile, HAS significantly inhibited neuronal apoptosis by decreasing mRNA and protein expressions of Cyt-c, Bax and Caspase 3, and increasing Bcl-2 expression in the hippocampus of AD mice. These results suggest that HAS have the potential to be developed as antioxidant drug for the prevention and early therapy of AD.

Controllable Domain Walls in Two-Dimensional Ferromagnetic Material Fe3GeTe2 Based on the Spin-Transfer Torque Effect

Recently, two-dimensional magnetic material has attracted attention worldwide due to its potential application in magnetic memory devices. The previous concept of domain walls driven by current pulses is a disordered motion. Further investigation of the mechanism is urgently lacking. Here, Fe₃GeTe₂, a typical high-Curie temperature (T_C) two-dimensional magnetic material, is chosen to explore the magnetic domain dynamics by in situ Lorentz transmission electron microscopy experiments. It has been found that the stripe domain could be driven, compressed, and expanded by the pulses with a critical current density. Revealed by micromagnetic simulations, all the domain walls cannot move synchronously due to the competition between demagnetization energy and spin-transfer torque effect. In consideration of the reflection of high-frequency pulses, the disordered motion could be well explained together. The multiple stable states of the magnetic structure due to the weak exchange interaction in a two-dimensional magnet provides complex dynamic processes. Based on plenty of experiments, a cluster of domain walls could be more steady and move more synchronously under the drive of pulse current. The complication of domain wall motions presents a challenge in race track memory devices and two-dimensional magnetic material will be a better choice for application research.

Effect of Strong Intermolecular Interaction in 2D Inorganic Molecular Crystals

Strong intermolecular interactions in 2D organic molecular crystals arising from π-π stacking have been widely explored to achieve high thermal stability, high carrier mobility, and novel physical properties, which have already produced phenomenal progress. However, strong intermolecular interactions in 2D inorganic molecular crystals (2DIMCs) have rarely been investigated, severely limiting both the fundamental research in molecular physics and the potential applications of 2DIMCs for optoelectronics. Here, the effect of strong intermolecular interactions induced by unique short intermolecular Se-Se and P-Se contacts in 2D α-P₄Se₃ nanoflakes is reported. On the basis of theoretical calculations of the charge density distribution and an analysis of the thermal expansion and plastic-crystal transition, the physical picture of strong intermolecular interactions can be elucidated as a higher charge density between adjacent P₄Se₃ molecules, arising from an orderly and close packing of P₄Se₃ molecules. More importantly, encouraged by the strong intermolecular coupling, the in-plane mobility of α-P₄Se₃ nanoflakes is first calculated with a quantum nuclear tunneling model, and a competitive hole mobility of 0.4 cm² V^-1 s^-1 is obtained. Our work sheds new light on the intermolecular interactions in 2D inorganic molecular crystals and is highly significant for promoting the development of molecular physics and optoelectronics.

2D Cu9 S5 /PtS2 /WSe2 Double Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor with High Current Gain

Bipolar junction transistor (BJT) as one important circuit element is now widely used in high-speed computation and communication for its capability of high-power signal amplification. 2D materials and their heterostructures are promising in building high-amplification and high-frequency BJTs because they can be naturally thin and highly designable in tailoring components properties. However, currently the low emitter injection efficiency results in only moderate current gain achieved in the pioneer researches, severely restraining its future development. Herein, it is shown that an elaborately designed double heterojunction bipolar transistor (DHBT) can greatly promote the injection efficiency, improving the current gain by order of magnitude. In this DHBT high-doping-density wide-bandgap 2D Cu₉ S₅ is used as emitter and narrow-bandgap PtS₂ as base. This heterostructure efficiently suppresses the reverse electron flux from base and increase the injection efficiency. Consequently, the DHBT achieves an excellent current gain (β ≈ 910). This work systematically explores the electrical behavior of 2D materials based DHBT, and provides deep insight of the architecture design for building high gain DHBT, which may promote the applications of 2Dheterojunctions in the fields of integrated circuits.

[Roles of processing and compatibility in antidepression of Sini Powder:a metabonomics study]

The antidepressant mechanism of Sini Powder was investigated by metabonomics based on UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS, and the roles of processing and compatibility in the antidepression of Sini Powder were discussed in the present study. The chronic unpredictable mild stress(CUMS) model of depression was induced in the model group, the Bupleuri Radix group, the Paeoniae Radix Alba group, the herb-pair group(Bupleuri Radix-Paeoniae Radix Alba), the Sini Powder group, and the vinegar-processed Sini Powder group(Bupleuri Radix and Paeoniae Radix Alba were vinegar-processed). After the establishment of the model, the rats in each group were continuously administered with corresponding drugs(ig) at a dose of 9.6 g·kg~(-1) for eight days [the rats in the model group and the normal group(without model induction) received the same volume of normal saline at the same time]. Following the last administration, the differential metabolites were identified to analyze metabolic pathways based on the rat plasma samples collected from each group. A total of sixteen potential biomarkers were identified. The metabolites with significant changes were involved in many biological metabolic pathways, such as amino acid metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway, glycerol phospholipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, and purine metabolism. After drug intervention, some biomarkers returned to normal levels. Further comparisons of processing and compatibility revealed that the vinegar-processed Sini Powder group had the most total metabolic pathways where differential metabolites were returned to normal. Compared with the individual herbs, the herb-pair significantly improved the recovery of differential metabolites in the pentose phosphate and purine metabolic pathways. Compared with the Sini Powder, the vinegar-processed Sini Powder facilitated the recovery of differential metabolites in the arginine biosynthesis, and pyrimidine and pentose phosphate metabolic pathways. As indicated by the results, Sini Powder may interfere with depression by regulating lipid and nucleotide metabolisms. The processing and compatibility of Chinese herbal medicines can potentiate the intervention on depression by regulating nucleotide, energy, and amino acid metabolisms to a certain extent.

Effects and mechanism of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) leaves on proliferation, migration, and tube formation of hypoxic human umbilical vein endothelial cells in vitro

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp) leaves (PL) are widely used for treating avascular necrosis of the femoral head. PL has an ideal effect on bone angiogenesis in patients with hormone-induced avascular necrosis of the femoral head and could promote the repair of blood vessels in the necrotic femoral head. Angiogenesis is beneficial to the treatment of myocardial ischemia. PL can be used to treat ischemic heart disease; however, no studies have examined whether it could protect the myocardium against ischemia injury via promoting angiogenesis.

AIM

The present study aimed to investigate whether PL could encourage angiogenesis on hypoxic human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and whether estrogen receptor (ER-α), protein kinase B (Akt), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (the ischemia injury salvage kinase pathway, phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K)) are involved in this effect.

METHODS

A hypoxic HUVEC model was established by culture in the hypoxia incubator. The proliferation ability of HUVECs was determined by the 2,3-Bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide (XTT) method, the migration rate of HUVECs was inspected by the Transwell method, the tube formation was evaluated by the Matrigel method, and the expression of PI3K, phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt), and VEGF was detected by Western blotting.

RESULTS

The proliferation, migration, and tube formation were promoted by the PL extract on hypoxic HUVECs, and the hypoxia-induced downstream signaling was counteracted, leading to increased expression of PI3K, p-Akt, and VEGF in HUVECs.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings showed that the PL extracts encourage angiogenesis. In addition, the above effects could be mediated via ER-α and PI3K/Akt/VEGF pathways.

Piezo1 mediates endothelial atherogenic inflammatory responses via regulation of YAP/TAZ activation

The vascular endothelium plays a key role in the pathobiology of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Endothelial cell Piezo1 mediates blood vessel formation, angiogenesis and regulation of blood pressure. However, changes of Piezo1 expression in atherosclerosis (AS) and the role of Piezo1 in the progression of atherosclerotic diseases remains obscure. Thus, the current study is to elucidate the role and mechanism of which Piezo1 mediates vascular inflammation in atherosclerotic mice and vascular endothelial inflammation induced by oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in vitro. Here, we have shown that the expression of Piezo1 was significantly increased in the stenotic carotid artery of ApoE-/- mice fed by high-fat diet (HFD). Pharmacological inhibition of Piezo1 (GsMTx-4) attenuated plaque formation, decreased the level of inflammation related factors (JNK, TNF-α, NF-κB, VCAM-1) of carotid plaque in atherosclerotic mice. Meanwhile, ox-LDL also upregulates Piezo1 and inflammation proteins (NF-κB, JNK and TNF-α) in endothelium cells (ECs). YAP/TAZ is activated accompanied by the enhanced Piezo1 activity in ECs induced by ox-LDL. Interference by siRNA of Piezo1 abolished the expression of YAP/TAZ and inflammation proteins (JNK, NF-κB and TNF-α). In addition, Ca²⁺ influx in ECs induced by ox-LDL was increased than control group, Piezo1 siRNA can reduce the calcium content. Piezo1 agonist Yoda1 increased Ca²⁺ influx and promote YAP nucleus translocation in ECs, genetic deletion of Piezo1 reversed it. Our results indicate that Piezo1 could mediate endothelial atherogenic inflammatory responses via regulation of YAP/TAZ activation and nuclear localization. Piezo1 may be a potential therapeutic target for atherosclerotic diseases in the future.

A Polarization Boosted Strategy for the Modification of Transition Metal Dichalcogenides as Electrocatalysts for Water-Splitting

The design and fabrication of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are of paramount significance for water-splitting process. However, the limited active sites and restricted conductivity prevent their further application. Herein, a polarization boosted strategy is put forward for the modification of TMDs to promote the absorption of the intermediates, leading to the improved catalytic performance. By the forced assembly of TMDs (WS₂ as the example) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via spray-drying method, such frameworks can remarkably achieve low overpotentials and superior durability in alkaline media, which is superior to most of the TMDs-based catalysts. The two-electrode cell for water-splitting also exhibits perfect activity and stability. The enhanced catalytic performance of WS₂ /CNTs composite is mainly owing to the strong polarized coupling between CNTs and WS₂ nanosheets, which significantly promotes the charge redistribution on the interface of CNTs and WS₂ . Density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that the CNTs enrich the electron content of WS₂ , which favors electron transportation and accelerates the catalysis. Moreover, the size of WS₂ is restricted caused by the confinement of CNTs, leading to the increased numbers of active sites, further improving the catalysis. This work opens a feasible route to achieve the optimized assembling of TMDs and CNTs for efficient water-splitting process.

2D Homojunctions for Electronics and Optoelectronics

In the post-Moore era, 2D materials with rich physical properties have attracted widespread attention from the scientific and industrial communities. Among 2D materials, the 2D homojunctions are of great promise in designing novel electronic and optoelectronic devices due to their unique geometries and properties such as homogeneous components, perfect lattice matching, and efficient charge transfer at the interface. In this article, a pioneering review focusing on the structural design and device application of 2D homojunctions such as p-n homojunctions, heterophase homojunctions, and layer-engineered homojunctions is provided. The preparation strategies to construct 2D homojunctions including vapor-phase deposition, lithium intercalation, laser irradiation, chemical doping, electrostatic doping, and photodoping are summarized in detail. Specifically, a careful review on the applications of the 2D homojunctions in electronics (e.g., field-effect transistors, rectifiers, and inverters) and optoelectronics (e.g., light-emitting diodes, photovoltaics, and photodetectors) is provided. Eventually, the current challenges and future perspectives are commented for promoting the rapid development of 2D homojunctions.

Hierarchical Magnetic Network Constructed by CoFe Nanoparticles Suspended Within "Tubes on Rods" Matrix Toward Enhanced Microwave Absorption

Hierarchical magnetic-dielectric composites are promising functional materials with prospective applications in microwave absorption (MA) field. Herein, a three-dimension hierarchical "nanotubes on microrods," core-shell magnetic metal-carbon composite is rationally constructed for the first time via a fast metal-organic frameworks-based ligand exchange strategy followed by a carbonization treatment with melamine. Abundant magnetic CoFe nanoparticles are embedded within one-dimensional graphitized carbon/carbon nanotubes supported on micro-scale Mo₂N rod (Mo₂N@CoFe@C/CNT), constructing a special multi-dimension hierarchical MA material. Ligand exchange reaction is found to determine the formation of hierarchical magnetic-dielectric composite, which is assembled by dielectric Mo₂N as core and spatially dispersed CoFe nanoparticles within C/CNTs as shell. Mo₂N@CoFe@C/CNT composites exhibit superior MA performance with maximum reflection loss of - 53.5 dB at 2 mm thickness and show a broad effective absorption bandwidth of 5.0 GHz. The Mo₂N@CoFe@C/CNT composites hold the following advantages: (1) hierarchical core-shell structure offers plentiful of heterojunction interfaces and triggers interfacial polarization, (2) unique electronic migration/hop paths in the graphitized C/CNTs and Mo₂N rod facilitate conductive loss, (3) highly dispersed magnetic CoFe nanoparticles within "tubes on rods" matrix build multi-scale magnetic coupling network and reinforce magnetic response capability, confirmed by the off-axis electron holography.

Yolk-Shell Nano ZnO@Co-Doped NiO with Efficient Polarization Adsorption and Catalysis Performance for Superior Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Achieving strong adsorption and catalytic ability toward polar lithium polysulfide species (LiPSs) of the sulfur host in lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries is essential for their electrochemical cyclic stability. Herein, a strategy of "self-termination of ion exchange" is put forward to synthesize the novel yolk-shell sulfur host composed of ZnO nanoparticles confined in Co-doped NiO (CDN) polyhedron (ZCCDN). After sulfur infiltration, the obtained S/ZCCDN cathode achieves excellent performance of 738.56 mAh g^-1 after 500 cycles at 0.5 C with a very low capacity decay rate of only 0.048% per cycle. Even at 1 C, 501.05 mAh g^-1 could be retained after 500 cycles, suggesting a capacity decay ratio of only 0.076% per cycle. The good cycle performance is attributed to the improved LiPSs' conversion kinetics, which originates from ZCCDN's sturdy chemical affinity and strong catalytic ability to polar LiPSs. For the first time, by electron holography, the local interfacial polarization electric field is clarified to be existed in the material which is conducive to the capture of LiPSs and the migration of electrons and Li⁺ from the mesopores. This work provides a rational way for the use of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) and development of cathode materials for Li-S batteries.

Facile synthesis of AgNPs@SNCDs nanocomposites as a fluorescent 'turn on' sensor for detection of glutathione

The present study illustrates the facile synthesis of silver nanoparticles capped with sulfur and nitrogen co-doped carbon dots (AgNPs@SNCDs) nanocomposites and their application towards the sensitive and selective detection of glutathione (GSH) using a spectrofluorimetry method. SNCDs were synthesized using solvothermal treatment of cysteamine hydrochloride and p-phenylenediamine. The as-fabricated SNCDs were then utilized as capping and stabilizing agents for the preparation of AgNPs@SNCDs nanocomposites using wet chemistry. The size of AgNPs@SNCDs nanocomposites was characterized to be ~37.58 nm or even larger aggregates. Particularly, the quenched fluorescence of AgNPs@SNCDs nanocomposites could be significantly restored upon addition of GSH, and the colour of its solution changed to some extent. The fluorescence intensity ratio of AgNPs@SNCDs nanocomposites at ~450 nm and 550 nm was directly proportional to the GSH concentration within the ranges 8.35-66.83 μM and 66.83-200.5 μM, and the detection limit was 0.52 μM. Furthermore various common organic molecules had no obvious interference in the detection mode. The proposed nanosensor was successfully applied for GSH assay in actual water samples.

Anomalous Spin Behavior in Fe3GeTe2 Driven by Current Pulses

Recently, 2D ferromagnetic materials have aroused wide interest for their magnetic properties and potential applications in spintronic and topological devices. However, their actual applications have been severely hindered by intricate challenges such as the unclear spin arrangement. In particular, the evolution of spin texture driven by high-density electron current, which is an essential condition for fabricating devices, remains unclear. Herein, the current-pulse-driven spin textures in 2D ferromagnetic material Fe₃GeTe₂ have been thoroughly investigated by in situ Lorentz transmission electron microscopy. The dynamic experiments reveal that the stripe domain structure in the AB and AC planes can be broken and rearranged by the high-density current. In particular, the density of domain walls can be modulated, which offers an avenue to achieve a high-density domain structure. This phenomenon is attributed to the weak interlayer exchange interaction in 2D metallic ferromagnetic materials and the strong disturbance from the high-density current. Therefore, a bubble domain structure and random magnetization in Fe₃GeTe₂ can be acquired by synchronous current pulses and magnetic fields. These achievements reveal domain structure transitions driven by the current in 2D metallic magnetic materials and provide references for the practical applications.

Suppression of Persistent Photoconductivity of Rubrene Crystals using Gate-Tunable Rubrene/Bi2 Se3 Diodes with Photoinduced Negative Differential Resistance

Organic single-crystalline semiconductors show great potential in high-performance photodetectors. However, they suffer from persistent photoconductivity (PPC) due to the charge trapping, which has severely hindered high-speed imaging applications. Here, a universal strategy of solving the PPC by integrating with topological insulator Bi₂ Se₃ is provided. The rubrene/Bi₂ Se₃ heterojunctions are selected as an example for general demonstration due to the reproducibly high mobility and broad optoelectronic applications of rubrene crystals. By virtue of high carrier concentration on Bi₂ Se₃ surface and the strong built-in electrical field, the photoresponse of the heterotransistor is significantly reduced for more than two orders (from over 10 s to 54 ms), meanwhile the photoresponsivity can reach 124 A W^-1 . To the best of knowledge, this operating speed is among the fastest responses in organic-inorganic heterojunctions. The heterotransistor also shows unique negative differential resistance under positive gate bias, which can be explained by photoinduced de-trapping of electron trap states in the bulk rubrene crystals. Besides, the rubrene/Bi₂ Se₃ heterojunction behaves as a gate-tunable backward-like diode due to the inhomogenous carrier distribution in the thick rubrene crystal and inversion of relative Fermi level positions. The findings demonstrate versatile functionalities of the rubrene/Bi₂ Se₃ heterojunctions for various emerging optoelectronic applications.

2D Inorganic Bimolecular Crystals with Strong In-Plane Anisotropy for Second-Order Nonlinear Optics

2D inorganic bimolecular crystals, consisting of two different inorganic molecules, are expected to possess novel physical and chemical properties due to the synergistic effect of the individual components. However, 2D inorganic bimolecular crystals remain unexploited because of the difficulties in preparation arising from non-typical layered structures and intricate intermolecular interactions. Here, the synthesis of 2D inorganic bimolecular crystal SbI₃ ·3S₈ nanobelts via a facile vertical microspacing sublimation strategy is reported. The as-synthesized SbI₃ ·3S₈ nanobelts exhibit strong in-plane anisotropy of phonon vibrations and intramolecular vibrations as well as show anisotropic light absorption with a high dichroism ratio of 3.9. Furthermore, it is revealed that the second harmonic generation intensity of SbI₃ ·3S₈ nanobelts is highly dependent on the excitation wavelength and crystallographic orientation. This work can inspire the growth of more 2D inorganic bimolecular crystals and excite potential applications for bimolecular optoelectronic devices.

Atomically Thin Oxyhalide Solar-Blind Photodetectors

2D wide-bandgap semiconductors demonstrate great potential in fabricating solar-blind ultraviolet (SBUV) photodetectors. However, the low responsivity of 2D solar-blind photodetectors still limits their practical applications. Here, high-responsivity solar-blind photodetectors are achieved based on 2D bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) flakes. The 2D BiOCl photodetectors exhibit a responsivity up to 35.7 A W^-1 and a specific detectivity of 2.2 × 10¹⁰ Jones under 250 nm illumination with 17.8 µW cm^-2 power density. In particular, the enhanced photodetective performances are demonstrated in BiOCl photodetectors with increasing ambient temperature. Surprisingly, their responsivity can reach 2060 A W^-1 at 450 K under solar-blind light illumination, maybe owing to the formation of defective BiOCl grains evidenced by in situ transmission electron microscopy. The high responsivity throughout the solar-blind range indicates that 2D BiOCl is a promising candidate for SBUV detection.

Dandelion-like carbon nanotube assembly embedded with closely separated Co nanoparticles for high-performance microwave absorption materials

Enhancing the magnetic loss capacity by microstructure design remains a considerable challenge in the microwave absorption field. Herein, a high-performance microwave absorbent is developed by dispersing a considerable amount of magnetic nanoparticles within the dandelion-like carbon nanotube assembly. A controllable fabrication method is further exploited to adjust the distribution feature of these embedded nanomagnets. In such a hierarchical composite, parts of the interaction network among the coupled closely spaced nanomagnets can be frequently broken and rebuilt to intensively dissipate the microwave energy, which is confirmed by electron holography and micromagnetic simulation for the first time. By virtue of this dynamic magnetic coupling network mechanism, the hierarchical C/Co composite acquires the first-rate microwave absorption performance. The maximum reflection loss value reaches as much as -52.9 dB (absorbance >0.99999) and the effective absorption bandwidth (absorbance >0.9) occupies the entire X band. It is believed that the above insightful mechanism provides a new opportunity to lower the density of the magnet-based microwave absorbent as much as possible. Besides, the unique method for dispersing magnetic nanoparticles also broadens the pathway to assemble the hierarchical architecture.

Recent Progress on Lipid Intake and Chronic Kidney Disease

The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with major abnormalities in circulating lipoproteins and renal lipid metabolism. This article elaborates on the mechanisms of CKD and lipid uptake abnormalities. The viewpoint we supported is that lipid abnormalities directly cause CKD, resulting in forming a vicious cycle. On the theoretical and experiment fronts, this inference has been verified by elaborately elucidating the role of lipid intake and accumulation as well as their influences on CKD. Taken together, these findings suggest that further understanding of lipid metabolism in CKD may lead to novel therapeutic approaches.

Magnetized MXene Microspheres with Multiscale Magnetic Coupling and Enhanced Polarized Interfaces for Distinct Microwave Absorption via a Spray-Drying Method

As a typical 2D (two dimensional) material, Ti₃C₂T_x, has been used as a promising microwave absorber (MA) because of its massive interface architecture, abundant natural defects, and chemical surface functional groups. However, its single dielectric-type loss and excessive high conductivity seriously restrict the further enhancement of MA performance. Herein, we first describe a simple spray-drying routine to reshape the 2D MXene into a confined and magnetized microsphere with tightly embedded Fe₃O₄ nanospheres (designated as M/F), contributing to the enhanced specific interfaces and strong dielectric polarization. These Fe₃O₄ magnetic units are highly dispersed into the dielectric Mxene framework, leading to the optimized impedance balance and electromagnetic coordination capability. This composite way effectively exceeds the conventionally physical mixing, simple loading, and local phase separation method. Meanwhile, strong magnetic loss capability with significantly improved magnetic flux line density is achieved from microscale MXene and nanoscale Fe₃O₄, confirming our 3D multiscale magnetic coupling network. Accordingly, the M/F composites hold distinct microwave absorption property with the strong reflection loss (-50.6 dB) and effective absorption bandwidth (4.67 GHz) at the thickness as thin as only 2 mm. Our encouraging strategy provides important designable implications for MXene-based functional materials and high-performance absorbers.

Multidimension-Controllable Synthesis of MOF-Derived Co@N-Doped Carbon Composite with Magnetic-Dielectric Synergy toward Strong Microwave Absorption

Metal-organic framework (MOF) is highly desirable as a functional material owing to its low density, tunable pore size, and diversity of coordination formation, but limited by the poor dielectric properties. Herein, by controlling the solvent and mole ratio of cobalt/linker, multidimension-controllable MOF-derived nitrogen-doped carbon materials exhibit tunable morphology from sheet-, flower-, cube-, dodecahedron- to octahedron-like. Tunable electromagnetic parameters of Co@N-doped carbon composites (Co@NC) can be obtained and the initial MOF precursor determines the distribution of carbon framework and magnetic cobalt nanoparticles. Carbonized Co@NC composites possess the following advantages: i) controllable dimension and morphology to balance the electromagnetic properties with evenly charged density distribution; ii) magnetic-carbon composites offer plenty of interfacial polarization and strong magnetic coupling network; iii) a MOF-derived dielectric carbon skeleton provides electronic transportation paths and enhances conductive dissipation. Surface-mediated magnetic coupling reflects the stray magnetic flux field, which is corroborated by the off-axis electron holography and micro-magnetic simulation. Optimized octadecahedral Co@NC sample exhibits the best microwave absorption (MA) of -53.0 dB at the thickness of 1.8 mm and broad effective frequency from 11.4 to 17.6 GHz (Ku-band). These results pave the way to fabricate high-performance MA materials with balanced electromagnetic distribution and controlled morphology.

A systematic review protocol of Tuina for children with acute bronchitis: A protocol for systematic review

BACKGROUND

Acute bronchitis (AB) is a common cause of childhood morbidity. Tuina, a kind of Chinese massage, is frequently used for the treatment of AB in children by traditional Chinese medicine doctors. However, there is no relevant systematic review show its effectiveness and safety. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Tuina for children with AB.

METHODS

The following electronic databases will be searched from the respective dates of database inception to January 1st, 2020: The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, Springer, EMBASE, MEDLINE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Wanfang database, the Chinese Scientific Journal Database, and other sources. All published randomized controlled trials and blinded researches that are relevant to the subject of interest only will be contained. Two independent researchers will operate article retrieval, duplication removing, screening, quality evaluation, and data analyses by Review Manager (V.5.3.5). Meta-analyses, subgroup analysis and/or descriptive analysis will be performed based on the included data conditions.

RESULTS

High-quality synthesis and/or descriptive analysis of current evidence will be provided from the bronchitis severity score, symptom, and quality-of-life questionnaires, the questionnaire of clinical symptoms of cough and sputum, Patient Satisfaction Scale and adverse reactions.

CONCLUSION

This study will provide the evidence of whether Tuina is an effective and safe intervention for children with AB.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42019140667.

Understanding molecular surface doping of large bandgap organic semiconductors and overcoming the contact/access resistance in organic field-effect transistors

The contact resistance (Rc) and the effective carrier mobility (μeff) are considered as the important indicators of the performance of organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). Conventionally, the contact resistance is regarded as the interface effect between the metal electrodes and the organic semiconductors, while the carrier mobility is correlated to the crystallinity and π-π stacking of the organic molecules. In the staggered OFETs, Rc is actually closely correlated to μeff through the channel sheet resistance. Besides, the accuracy of the carrier mobility directly extracted from the non-ideal transfer curves with significant contact effect is always questionable. Herein, a diffusion-lead surface doping approach is employed to improve the contact resistance and mobility issues simultaneously. By suppressing the trap states in the sublimated 2,7-dioctyl[1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene (C8-BTBT) organic semiconductor with 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4-TCNQ), we observed a 3-fold increase in the carrier mobility from 0.5 to 1.6 cm2 V-1 s-1, and the Rc also drops remarkably from 25.7 kΩ cm to 5.2 kΩ cm. Moreover, the threshold voltage (VTH), subthreshold swing (SS) and the bias stability of the OFETs are also significantly improved. Based on the detailed characterization of the C8-BTBT film upon surface doping, including X-ray diffraction (XRD) for the film crystallinity, Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) for the surface potential, trap state investigation by density of states (DOS) measurement and electrical circuit modeling for partial doping analysis, we confirmed that the spontaneous charge transfer process due to the diffusion of the F4-TCNQ dopants in the C8-BTBT matrix can lead to an effective trap filling. This technique and findings can be potentially developed into a general approach for the improvement of different performance parameters of OFETs.

Self-Assembly-Magnetized MXene Avoid Dual-Agglomeration with Enhanced Interfaces for Strong Microwave Absorption through a Tunable Electromagnetic Property

Multilayered microwave absorbers which can provide massive interfaces are highly needed for electromagnetic-wave absorption property enhancement. Meanwhile, how to effectively avoid agglomeration and further widen the absorption band is still a challenge. Herein, accordion-like magnetized MXene/Ni composites were fabricated by the electrostatic self-assembly interaction between multilayer MXene and Ni(OH)₂ nanoplates and subsequent in situ reduction in the H₂/Ar atmosphere. Ni nanoparticles were uniformly distributed without magnetic agglomeration between the multilayered gaps of the adjacent 2D (2 dimension) MXene (Ti₃C₂T_x) of MXene/Ni nanocomposites (magnetized MXene), which hold the distinct absorption performance that the reflection loss maximum measures up to -50.5 dB at 5.5 GHz. Moreover, dynamic magnetic response of the magnetized MXene absorber was first researched by the electron holography analysis. The related key mechanism includes the enhanced magnetic loss, less dual-agglomeration (multilayer MXene itself and magnetic agglomeration), and more interfaces and intrinsic defects for related polarization. A broadened absorption bandwidth can further be obtained by changing the mass ratio of MXene to Ni that possesses the widest absorption bandwidth of 5.28 GHz. This work provides a new route for the balance among strong absorption intensity, tunable electromagnetic properties, and wide absorption bandwidth of the MXene-based nanocomposites.