Enhancing Laser-Induced Graphene via Integration of Gold Nanoparticles and Titanium Dioxide for Sensing and Robotics Applications.

Laser-induced graphene (LIG) is a promising material for various applications due to its unique properties and facile fabrication. However, the electrochemical performance of LIG is significantly lower than that of pure graphene, limiting its practical use. Theoretically, integrating other conductive materials with LIG can enhance its performance. In this study, we investigated the effects of incorporating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) into LIG on its electrochemical properties using ReaxFF molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and experimental validation. We found that both AuNPs and TiO2 improved the work function and surface potential of LIG, resulting in a remarkable increase in output voltage by up to 970.5% and output power density by 630% compared to that of pristine LIG. We demonstrated the practical utility of these performance-enhanced LIG by developing motion monitoring devices, self-powered sensing systems, and robotic hand platforms. Our work provides new insights into the design and optimization of LIG-based devices for wearable electronics and smart robotics, contributing to the advancement of sustainable technologies.

Scalable CIGS Solar Cells Employing a New Device Design of Nontoxic Buffer Layer and Microgrid Electrode.

The efficiency of copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) solar cells that use transparent conductive oxide (TCO) as the top electrode decreases significantly as the device area increases owing to the poor electrical properties of TCO. Therefore, high-efficiency, large-area CIGS solar cells require the development of a novel top electrode with high transmittance and conductivity. In this study, a microgrid/TCO hybrid electrode is designed to minimize the optical and resistive losses that may occur in the top electrode of a CIGS solar cell. In addition, the buffer layer of the CIGS solar cells is changed from the conventional CdS buffer to a dry-processed wide-band gap ZnMgO (ZMO) buffer, resulting in increased device efficiency by minimizing parasitic absorption in the short-wavelength region. By optimizing the combination of ZMO buffer and the microgrid/TCO hybrid electrode, a device efficiency of up to 20.5% (with antireflection layers) is achieved over a small device area of 5 mm × 5 mm (total area). Moreover, CIGS solar cells with an increased device area of up to 20 mm × 70 mm (total area) exhibit an efficiency of up to 19.7% (with antireflection layers) when a microgrid/TCO hybrid electrode is applied. Thus, this study demonstrates the potential for high-efficiency, large-area CIGS solar cells with novel microgrid electrodes.

Strain-graded quantum dots with spectrally pure, stable and polarized emission.

Structural deformation modifies the bandgap, exciton fine structure and phonon energy of semiconductors, providing an additional knob to control their optical properties. The impact can be exploited in colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs), wherein structural stresses can be imposed in three dimensions while defect formation is suppressed by controlling surface growth kinetics. Yet, the control over the structural deformation of QDs free from optically active defects has not been reached. Here, we demonstrate strain-graded CdSe-ZnSe core-shell QDs with compositionally abrupt interface by the coherent pseudomorphic heteroepitaxy. Resulting QDs tolerate mutual elastic deformation of varying magnitudes at the interface with high structural fidelity, allowing for spectrally stable and pure emission of photons at accelerated rates with near unity luminescence efficiency. We capitalize on the asymmetric strain effect together with the quantum confinement effect to expand emission envelope of QDs spanning the entire visible region and exemplify their use in photonic applications.

Microplastic polyethylene induced inner ear dysfunction in murine model.

While the hazardous effects of microplastics (MPs) are increasingly reported, it remains uncertain if MPs induce inner ear dysfunction. Nonetheless, prevalence of inner ear dysfunction was observed across all age groups. In this study, we investigated whether MP polyethylene affect inner ear function in a murine model. To detect hearing loss and balance defect after polyethylene (PE) exposure, we evaluated hearing threshold levels, assessed cerebral glucose metabolism, conducted transcriptome analysis, and performed behavioral studies. C57BL/6 J mice (5-week-old) were grouped into control (n = 10) and PE-fed groups (n = 10). Mice were orally administered 100 ppm/100 µL (equivalent to 10 µg) of PE every day for 4 months. We identified the accumulation of PE in the cochlea and vestibular region. The fragmented PE in inner ear was 3.00 ± 0.38 µm in size; the administered PE concentration was 1.14 ± 1.06 mg/g. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry confirmed that the properties of the MP were identical with those of PE fed to the mice. Transcriptomic analysis showed up-regulation of PER1, NR4A3 and CEBPB at the PE exposed inner ear tissue and it was confirmed using qRT-PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining. We observed abnormalities in balance related behavior assessment in the PE group. Exposure to PE increased the hearing thresholds and decreased glucose metabolism in the bilateral lateral entorhinal cortex, right primary auditory cortex, and right secondary auditory cortex. We can conclude that PE exposure induced inner ear dysfunction such as hearing loss and balance disorder.

Impact of Alternating-Current Operation on All-Inorganic Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diodes.

In colloidal quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QD-LEDs), replacing organic hole transport layers (HTLs) with their inorganic counterparts is expected to yield distinct advantages due to their inherent material robustness. However, despite the promising characteristics of all-inorganic QD-LEDs, some challenges persist in achieving stable operation; for example, the electron overflow toward the inorganic HTL and charge accumulation within working devices return a temporal inconsistency in device characteristics. To address these challenges, we propose an operational approach that employs an alternating-current (AC) in all-inorganic QD-LEDs. We carry out comprehensive studies on the optoelectrical characteristics of all-inorganic QD-LEDs under direct-current (DC) or AC operation and demonstrate that AC operation can facilitate efficient charge carrier recombination within the QD emissive layer, leading to improved device efficiency and temporally invariant optoelectronic characteristics. Leveraging the intrinsic material robustness of inorganic charge transport layers (CTLs), our current study suggests a promising pathway toward enhancing the performance and stability of QD-LEDs, particularly for futuristic display applications.

Effect of Carbon Nanotubes on Chloride Diffusion, Strength, and Microstructure of Ultra-High Performance Concrete.

This study delved into the integration of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC), exploring aspects such as mechanical properties, microstructure analysis, accelerated chloride penetration, and life service prediction. A dispersed CNT solution (0.025 to 0.075 wt%) was employed, along with a superplasticizer, to ensure high flowability in the UHPC slurry. In addition, the combination of high-strength functional artificial lightweight aggregate (ALA) and micro hollow spheres (MHS) was utilized as a replacement for fine aggregate to not only reduce the weight of the concrete but also to increase its mechanical performance. Experimental findings unveiled that an increased concentration of CNT in CNT1 (0.025%) and CNT2 (0.05%) blends led to a marginal improvement in compressive strength compared to the control mix. Conversely, the CNT3 (0.075%) mixture exhibited a reduction in compressive strength with a rising CNT content as an admixture. SEM analysis depicted that the heightened concentration of CNTs as an admixture induced the formation of nanoscale bridges within the concrete matrix. Ponding test results indicated that, for all samples, the effective chloride transport coefficient remained below the standard limitation of 1.00 × 10-12 m2/s, signifying acceptable performance in the ponding test for all samples. The life service prediction outcomes affirmed that, across various environmental scenarios, CNT1 and CNT2 mixtures consistently demonstrated superior performance compared to all other mixtures.

Mediation Effect of Social Distancing on Neonatal Vitamin D Status and Related Clinical Outcomes during the Coronavirus Disease-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: We analyzed the impact of social distancing (SD) on vitamin D status and associated morbidity in neonates during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. METHODS: Serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) and clinical characteristics of newborn infants before (2019) and during SD (2021) were compared. RESULTS: A total of 526 neonates (263 in 2019 and 263 in 2021) were included. The rate of vitamin D deficiency in neonates (47.1% vs. 35.4 %, p = 0.008) decreased and the rate of maternal vitamin D intake increased (6.8% vs. 37.6%, p < 0.001), respectively, during SD compared to those in 2019. The rates of hypocalcemia (12.5% vs. 3.8%, p < 0.001) and respiratory illness (57.0% vs. 43.0%, p = 0.002) decreased during SD. Neonatal vitamin D deficiency during SD was associated with maternal vitamin D supplementation (odds ratio [OR] = 0.463, p = 0.003) but was not associated with SD (OR = 0.772, p = 0.189). The mediation effect of SD on neonatal morbidity by neonatal vitamin D status was statistically insignificant. CONCLUSIONS: SD might affect the increased maternal vitamin D intake and decreased neonatal vitamin D deficiency. However, neonatal morbidity was not affected by SD, even with neonatal vitamin D status changes.

Thyroid and neurobehavioral effects of DiNP on GH3 cells and larval zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Diisononyl phthalate (DiNP) has been used to replace bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and is frequently found in the environment and humans. DiNP is reported for its anti-androgenic activity; however, little is known about its effects on thyroid function and neurodevelopment. In the present study, the thyroid disruption and neurobehavioral alteration potential of DiNP and its major metabolites were assessed in a rat pituitary carcinoma cell line (GH3) and embryo-larval zebrafish (Danio rerio). In GH3 cells, exposure to DiNP and its metabolites not only increased proliferation but also induced transcriptional changes in several target genes, which were different from those observed with DEHP exposure. In larval fish, a 5-day exposure to DiNP caused significant increases in thyroid hormone levels, following a similar pattern to that reported for DEHP exposure. Following exposure to DiNP, the activity of the larval fish decreased, and neurodevelopment-related genes, such as c-fos, elavl3, and mbp, were down-regulated. These changes are generally similar to those observed for DEHP. Up-regulation of gap43 and down-regulation of elavl3 gene, which are important for both thyroid hormone production and neurodevelopment, respectively, support the potential for both thyroid and behavioral disruption of DiNP. Overall, these results emphasize the need to consider the adverse thyroid and neurodevelopmental effects in developing regulations for DEHP-replacing phthalates.

Discordance Rate and Risk Factor of Other Diagnostic Modalities for Small Bowel Tumors Detected by Device-Assisted Enteroscopy: A Korean Association for the Study of Intestinal Disease (KASID) Multicenter Study.

Background/Aims: Despite advances in imaging and endoscopic technology, diagnostic modalities for small bowel tumors are simultaneously performed. We investigated the discrepancy rate between each modality and predictive factors of discrepancy in patients with definite small bowel tumors. Methods: Data of patients with definite small bowel tumors who underwent both device-assisted enteroscopy (DAE) and computed tomography (CT) were retrieved from web-based enteroscopy registry database in Korea. Predictive risk factors associated with discrepancy were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. Results: Among 998 patients, 210 (21.0%) were diagnosed with small bowel tumor using DAE, in 193 patients with definite small bowel tumor, DAE and CT were performed. Of these patients, 12 (6.2%) showed discrepancy between examinations. Among 49 patients who underwent DAE and video capsule endoscopy (VCE) examination, 13 (26.5%) showed discrepancy between examinations. No significant independent risk factors were associated with concordance between DAE and CT in multivariate logistic regression analysis among the patients. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, red blood cell transfusion was negatively associated with concordance between DAE and VCE in patients with small bowel tumor (odds ratio, 0.163; 95% confidence interval, 0.026 to 1.004; p=0.050). Conclusions: For small bowel tumors, the discrepancy rate between DAE and CT was 6.2%, and 26.5% between DAE and VCE. Despite developments in cross-sectional imaging (VCE and DAE modalities), discrepancies still exist. For small bowel bleeding that require significant transfusion while showing insignificant VCE findings, DAE should be considered as the next diagnostic approach, considering the possibility of missed small bowel tumor.

Preoperative increased pronation angle of the first metatarsus associated with correction loss after hallux valgus surgery: A semi-weight-bearing computed tomography study.

BACKGROUND: The effect of preoperative first metatarsal pronation on postoperative prognosis of hallux valgus (HV) surgery is under investigation. Utilizing semi-weight-bearing computed tomography, the preoperative pronation angle was assessed to quantify its impact on postoperative prognosis. METHODS: In a retrospective analysis of 31 feet, those with re-increased hallux valgus angle postoperatively were classified as the non-maintained group, and the remainder as the maintained group. Preoperative pronation angles were compared to establish a threshold. Subsequently, feet were re-classified into high or low-pronation categories. The relative risk of non-maintenance in high-pronation category was calculated. RESULTS: The non-maintained group exhibited a significantly higher preoperative pronation angle (p = 0.021), with a 28.4º threshold. The high-pronation category had a relative risk of 2.34 for non-maintenance. CONCLUSIONS: Increased preoperative first metatarsal pronation angle is associated with correction loss after HV surgery. Utilizing sWBCT to measure the pronation angle provides valuable insights into postoperative prognosis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Predictors of positive tuberculin skin test in neonates exposed to pulmonary tuberculosis.

BACKGROUND: Neonates are at risk of nosocomial tuberculosis (TB) infection from health care workers (HCWs) in neonatal care facilities, which can progress to severe TB diseases. Tuberculin skin test (TST) is commonly used for TB diagnosis, but its accuracy in neonates is influenced by various factors, including bacilli Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination. This study aimed to identify predictors of positive TSTs in neonates exposed to HCWs with pulmonary TB. METHODS: A retrospective observational study was conducted to compare the frequency of predictors between TST-positive and TST-negative neonates. Demographic, epidemiological, and clinical data of neonates exposed to TB, along with that of HCW and household contacts, were collected retrospectively through contact investigations with the Korean National TB Surveillance System (KNTSS) database. TSTs using 2 tuberculin units of purified protein derivative RT23 were performed on exposed neonates at the end of preventive TB treatment. Firth logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of TST positivity. RESULTS: Contact investigations revealed that 152 neonates and 54 HCWs were exposed to infectious TB index cases in 3 neonatal care facilities. Of 152 exposed neonates, 8 (5.3%) had positive TST results. Age of 6 days or more at the initial exposure is a statistically significant predictor of positive TST (Firth coefficient 2.1, 95% confidence interval 0.3-3.9, P = 0.024); BCG vaccination showed no statistical significance in both univariable and multivariable analysis. Sex, prematurity, exposure duration, duration from initial exposure to contact investigation, and isoniazid preventive treatment duration were not significant predictors. CONCLUSION: Age at the initial exposure is a significant predictor of positive TST in neonates exposed to active pulmonary TB. Given the complexities of TST interpretation, including false positives due to BCG vaccination, careful risk assessment is necessary for appropriate decision-making and resource allocation in the management of neonatal TB exposure.

Novel self-expandable stent-based endobiliary radiofrequency ablation for unresectable malignant biliary obstruction.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Endobiliary radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging endoscopic palliative adjunctive therapy used for the local treatment of unresectable malignant biliary obstruction (MBO). However, irregular ablation ranges caused by insufficient electrode-to-bile duct contact pose a significant obstacle. The aim was to investigate the feasibility of a self-expandable stent (SES)-based electrode with a customized RFA generator in the porcine liver and common bile duct (CBD). METHODS: A SES-RFA system with polarity-switching was developed to perform endobiliary RFA. The ablation ranges of 20 ablation protocols were evaluated to validate the feasibility of the newly developed RFA system in the porcine liver. Nine of the 20 ablation protocols were selected for evaluation in the porcine CBD with cholangiography, endoscopy, and histological and immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS: The SES-RFA system with polarity-switching was successfully constructed and demonstrated high accuracy and reproducibility. The ablation area was clearly identified between the two SESs. The ablation ranges and degree of mucosal damage including TUNEL- and HSP70-positive depositions increased proportionally with ablation protocols in the porcine liver and CBD (all P < .05). Ablation length and depth linearly increased with ablation protocols from 8.74 ± 0.25 to 31.25 ± 0.67 mm and 1.61 ± 0.09 to 11.94 ± 0.44 mm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The SES-RFA system with polarity-switching between electrodes provided an even circumferential area of ablation and enhanced ablation depth between the electrodes. This novel endobiliary RFA system is a promising modality for local ablation in patients with unresectable MBO.

Thyroid and sex hormone disrupting effects of DEHTP at different life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHTP) is an alternative plasticizer widely used in numerous consumer products, replacing di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). Hence, DEHTP has been frequently detected in the environment and humans. As a structural isomer and functional analog of DEHP, DEHTP is a suspected endocrine disruptor. Here, we evaluated thyroid-disrupting effects of DEHTP using embryo-larval and adult male zebrafish. We also investigated its sex hormone disruption potential in the adult zebrafish. After 5- and 7-days of exposure to DEHTP, significant increases in whole-body thyroid hormonal levels were observed in the larval fish. Down-regulation of several thyroid-regulating genes, including trh, tshß, nis, and dio2, was observed, but only after 5-day exposure. Following a 21-day exposure, the adult male zebrafish exhibited a significant decrease in total triiodothyronine and an increase in thyroid-stimulating hormones. Potential changes in the deiodination of thyroid hormones, supported by the up-regulation of two deiodinases, dio1 and dio3a, along with the down-regulation of dio2, could explain the thyroid hormone changes in the adult zebrafish. Moreover, significant trends of decrease in estradiol and 11-ketotestosterone, along with increase of testosterone (T), were observed in the adult zebrafish. Up-regulation of several steroidogenic genes may explain elevated T, while exact mechanisms of action warrant further investigation. Our results demonstrate that DEHTP can cause disruptions of thyroid and sex hormones at different life stages in zebrafish.

Float-stacked graphene-PMMA laminate.

Semi-infinite single-atom-thick graphene is an ideal reinforcing material that can simultaneously improve the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of matrix. Here, we present a float-stacking strategy to accurately align the monolayer graphene reinforcement in polymer matrix. We float graphene-poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) membrane (GPM) at the water-air interface, and wind-up layer-by-layer by roller. During the stacking process, the inherent water meniscus continuously induces web tension of the GPM, suppressing wrinkle and folding generation. Moreover, rolling-up and hot-rolling mill process above the glass transition temperature of PMMA induces conformal contact between each layer. This allows for pre-tension of the composite, maximizing its reinforcing efficiency. The number and spacing of the embedded graphene fillers are precisely controlled. Notably, we accurately align 100 layers of monolayer graphene in a PMMA matrix with the same intervals to achieve a specific strength of about 118.5 MPa g-1 cm3, which is higher than that of lightweight Al alloy, and a thermal conductivity of about 4.00 W m-1 K-1, which is increased by about 2,000 %, compared to the PMMA film.

Peptide-Decorated Microneedles for the Detection of Microplastics.

The escalating utilization of plastics in daily life has resulted in pervasive environmental pollution and consequent health hazards. The challenge of detecting and capturing microplastics, which are imperceptible to the naked eye, is exacerbated by their diminutive size, hydrophobic surface properties, and capacity to absorb organic compounds. This study focuses on the application of peptides, constituted of specific amino acid sequences, and microneedles for the rapid and selective identification of microplastics. Peptides, due to their smaller size and greater environmental stability compared with antibodies, emerge as a potent solution to overcome the limitations inherent in existing detection methodologies. To immobilize peptides onto microneedles, this study employed microneedles embedded with gold nanorods, augmenting them with sulfhydryl (SH) groups at the peptides' termini. The sensor developed through this methodology exhibited efficient peptide binding to the microneedle tips, thereby facilitating the capture of microplastics. Raman spectroscopy was employed for the detection of microplastics, with the results demonstrating successful attachment to the microneedles. This novel approach not only facilitates localized analysis but also presents a viable strategy for the detection of microplastics across diverse environmental settings.

Therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells from human iPSC-derived teratomas for osteochondral defect regeneration.

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) hold great promise for personalized medicine, as they can be differentiated into specific cell types, especially mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Therefore, our study sought to assess the feasibility of deriving MSCs from teratomas generated from human iPSCs. Teratomas serve as a model to mimic multilineage human development, thus enriching specific somatic progenitors and stem cells. Here, we discovered a small, condensed mass of MSCs within iPSC-generated teratomas. Afterward, we successfully isolated MSCs from this condensed mass, which was a byproduct of teratoma development. To evaluate the characteristics and cell behaviors of iPSC-derived MSCs (iPSC-MSCs), we conducted comprehensive assessments using qPCR, immunophenotype analysis, and cell proliferation-related assays. Remarkably, iPSC-MSCs exhibited an immunophenotype resembling that of conventional MSCs, and they displayed robust proliferative capabilities, similar to those of higher pluripotent stem cell-derived MSCs. Furthermore, iPSC-MSCs demonstrated the ability to differentiate into multiple lineages in vitro. Finally, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of iPSC-MSCs using an osteochondral defect model. Our findings demonstrated that teratomas are a promising source for the isolation of condensed MSCs. More importantly, our results suggest that iPSC-MSCs derived from teratomas possess the capacity for tissue regeneration, highlighting their promise for future therapeutic applications.

Construction of Seven-Membered Oxacycles Using a Rh(I)-Catalyzed Cascade C-C Formation/Cleavage of Cyclobutenol Derivatives.

Herein, we describe the synthesis of substituted oxepane derivatives through the skeletal remodeling of 4-hydroxy-2-cyclobutenones, which are readily prepared from commercially available dialkyl squarates upon their reaction with acrylonitrile. Mechanistically, a Rh(I)-catalyzed C-C bond formation and cleavage cascade is proposed. Specifically, a fused [3.2.0] bicycle is proposed to form from dialkyl squarate-derived cyclobutenols via an unusual Rh(I)-catalyzed intermolecular oxa-Michael addition of a tertiary alcohol with acrylonitrile, followed by an intramolecular conjugate addition/migratory insertion. Subsequent C(sp3)-C(sp3) bond cleavage through a Rh-catalyzed ß-carbon elimination is then theorized to furnish the oxepane scaffold. Computational studies support the formation of an intermediate [3.2.0] bicycle but also point to an alternative pathway for the formation of the oxepane products involving a Rh(III) intermediate. Additional studies have shown the overall process to be stereoretentive. The functional groups that are introduced in this process can be leveraged to form fused or bridged ring systems.

Latitude and seasons influence the prevalence of Theileria orientalis and affect the hematology of non-grazed dairy cows in Korea.

This pilot study aimed to investigate the effects of regional and seasonal variations on the prevalence of Theileria orientalis and the hematological profile of non-grazed dairy cows in Korea. A total of 365 clinically healthy lactating Holstein Friesian cows from 26 dairy farms in 7 provinces that were categorized into northern, central, and southern regions were sampled during the warm period from July to August and the cold period from October to December. The detection of T. orientalis major piroplasm surface protein gene and the hematology non-grazed dairy cows were analyzed using peripheral blood samples. The T. orientalis prevalence was 20.0% (73/365). The prevalence in the southern region was 35.9%, which was significantly higher than that in the central (21.6%) and northern (12.9%) regions (P < 0.05). The prevalence during warm period was higher (43.0%) than that during the cold season (13.5%). The infected cows showed significantly lower erythrocyte counts in the southern region (5.8 ± 0.6 M/µl) and during the warm period (5.8 ± 0.7 M/µl) compared with those in the central and northern regions and during the cold season, which affected the extended RBC parameters, including hematocrit and hemoglobin concentrations. Our findings revealed the prevalence of T. orientalis in Korea, highlighting its high occurrence during warm periods and in certain geographical regions. Climatic factors could contribute to the health and productivity of cattle, as evidenced by the prevalence of T. orientalis and its negative impact on animals.

Interferon lambda in respiratory viral infection: immunomodulatory functions and antiviral effects in epithelium.

Type III interferon (IFN-λ), a new member of the IFN family, was initially considered to possess antiviral functions similar to those of type I interferon, both of which are induced via the JAK/STAT pathway. Nevertheless, recent findings demonstrated that IFN-λ exerts a nonredundant antiviral function at the mucosal surface, preferentially produced in epithelial cells in contrast to type I interferon, and its function cannot be replaced by type I interferon. This review summarizes recent studies showing that IFN-λ inhibits the spread of viruses from the cell surface to the body. Further studies have found that the role of IFN-λ is not only limited to the abovementioned functions, but it can also can exert direct and/or indirect effects on immune cells in virus-induced inflammation. This review focuses on the antiviral activity of IFN-λ in the mucosal epithelial cells and its action on immune cells and summarizes the pathways by which IFN-λ exerts its action and differentiates it from other interferons in terms of mechanism. Finally, we conclude that IFN-λ is a potent epidermal antiviral factor that enhances the respiratory mucosal immune response and has excellent therapeutic potential in combating respiratory viral infections.

Shen Yuan extract exerts a hypnotic effect via the tryptophan/5-hydroxytryptamine/melatonin pathway in mice.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Sleep plays a critical role in several physiologic processes, and sleep disorders increase the risk of depression, dementia, stroke, cancer, and other diseases. Stress is one of the main causes of sleep disorders. Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma and Polygalae Radix have been reported to have effects of calming the mind and intensifying intelligence in Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions composed of Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma and Polygalae Radix (Shen Yuan, SY) are commonly used to treat insomnia, depression, and other psychiatric disorders in clinical practice. Unfortunately, the underlying mechanisms of the SY extract's effect on sleep are still unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to investigate the hypnotic effect of the SY extract in normal mice and mice with chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced sleep disorders and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The SY extract (0.5 and 1.0 g/kg) was intragastrically administered to normal mice for 1, 14, and 28 days and to CRS-treated mice for 28 days. The open field test (OFT) and pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep test (PST) were used to evaluate the hypnotic effect of the SY extract. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were utilized to detect the levels of neurotransmitters and hormones. Molecular changes at the mRNA and protein levels were determined using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis to identify the mechanisms by which SY improves sleep disorders. RESULTS: The SY extract decreased sleep latency and increased sleep duration in normal mice. Similarly, the sleep duration of mice subjected to CRS was increased by administering SY. The SY extract increased the levels of tryptophan (Trp) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) in the cortex of normal mice. The SY extract increased the Trp level, transcription and expression of estrogen receptor beta and TPH2 in the cortex in mice with sleep disorders by decreasing the serum corticosterone level, which promoted the synthesis of 5-HT. Additionally, the SY extract enhanced the expression of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase, which increased the melatonin level and upregulated the expressions of melatonin receptor-2 (MT2) and Cryptochrome 1 (Cry1) in the hypothalamus of mice with sleep disorders. CONCLUSIONS: The SY extract exerted a hypnotic effect via the Trp/5-HT/melatonin pathway, which augmented the synthesis of 5-HT and melatonin and further increased the expressions of MT2 and Cry1.