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21 pages, 1948 KB  
Article
Liposomal Delivery of Macleaya cordata Extract Alleviates Bacterial Diarrhea Through Intestinal Barrier Restoration, Microbiota Remodeling, and Inhibition of Inflammatory Factor Release
by Rujia Xie, Siya Chen, Wangxia Peng, Xinlei Tang, Hui Su, Bozhi Zeng, Congcong Chen, Chengcheng Yi, Jianguo Zeng and Jing Yang
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(2), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18020218 - 9 Feb 2026
Viewed by 546
Abstract
Background/Objectives: To overcome bottlenecks in the application of Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) in veterinary traditional Chinese medicine, such as low bioavailability of its active ingredients, gastrointestinal irritation, and muscular toxicity, this study aimed to develop a liposomal nano-delivery system loaded with MCE [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: To overcome bottlenecks in the application of Macleaya cordata extract (MCE) in veterinary traditional Chinese medicine, such as low bioavailability of its active ingredients, gastrointestinal irritation, and muscular toxicity, this study aimed to develop a liposomal nano-delivery system loaded with MCE (MCE-Lips) to achieve the core objective of “enhancing efficacy and reducing toxicity” and to explore its potential application and mechanism of action in treating bacterial diarrhea. Methods: MCE-Lips were prepared using the thin-film dispersion method, and their physicochemical properties—particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and drug loading capacity—were characterized. In vitro, cytotoxicity against skeletal muscle cells and NCM460 intestinal epithelial cells was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay. The release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) from skeletal muscle cells was measured with an LDH assay kit. The expression levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) in both cell types were determined through ELISA. A fluorescent probe was employed to assess cell membrane integrity. The effect of MCE-Lips on the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin-5) was evaluated via immunofluorescence. Acute toxicity was examined through H&E staining. A bacterial diarrhea model was established using Escherichia coli in mice, and comprehensive safety and efficacy were assessed through hematological tests and gastrointestinal motility evaluation. Finally, untargeted metabolomics and 16S rRNA sequencing were utilized to investigate the underlying mechanisms of action. Results: The prepared MCE-Lips had an average particle size of 86.49 nm and a high encapsulation efficiency of 89.07%. In vitro experiments demonstrated that MCE-Lips significantly alleviated skeletal muscle cell damage, reduced LDH release (p < 0.05), and effectively inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β (p < 0.05). In NCM460 cells, MCE-Lips exhibited a more pronounced inhibitory effect on LPS-induced release of TNF-α (p < 0.01), IL-6 (p < 0.0001), and IL-1β (p < 0.0001) and enhanced intestinal barrier function by upregulating the expression of tight junction proteins ZO-1 (p < 0.001), Occludin (p < 0.01), and Claudin-5 (p < 0.01). In the bacterial diarrhea model, MCE-Lips showed excellent anti-diarrheal efficacy (p < 0.01). Hematological analysis indicated no systemic toxicity. At the endocrine level, the high-dose group significantly reduced motilin (MTL) levels (p < 0.01), which slowed intestinal motility and prolonged chyme retention, thereby alleviating diarrhea symptoms. Mechanistic studies revealed that it acts by regulating the intestinal metabolic profile and microbial community structure, with Desulfovibrio, Enterococcus, and Streptococcus identified as key characteristic differential genera. Conclusions: For the first time, an MCE liposome nanoparticle system was constructed, and untargeted metabolomics combined with 16S rRNA sequencing were employed to elucidate its anti-diarrheal mechanism. MCE-Lips exerts excellent antibacterial diarrhea effects through multiple mechanisms, including direct cytoprotection and anti-inflammatory action, enhancement of the intestinal barrier, regulation of gut function, and remodeling of the gut microecology. This work provides a novel paradigm for plant-derived nano-anti-diarrheal agents. The systematic evaluation of the pharmacodynamics of MCE-Lips in a piglet bacterial diarrhea model will lay a solid foundation for its eventual market application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drug Delivery and Controlled Release)
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33 pages, 1141 KB  
Review
The Protonic Brain: Nanoscale pH Dynamics, Proton Wires, and Acid–Base Information Coding in Neural Tissue
by Valentin Titus Grigorean, Catalina-Ioana Tataru, Cosmin Pantu, Felix-Mircea Brehar, Octavian Munteanu and George Pariza
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020560 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 1029
Abstract
Emerging research indicates that neuronal activity is maintained by an architectural system of protons in a multi-scale fashion. Proton architecture is formed when organelles (such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, synaptic vesicles, etc.) are coupled together to produce dynamic energy domains. Techniques have [...] Read more.
Emerging research indicates that neuronal activity is maintained by an architectural system of protons in a multi-scale fashion. Proton architecture is formed when organelles (such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, synaptic vesicles, etc.) are coupled together to produce dynamic energy domains. Techniques have been developed to visualize protons in neurons; recent advances include near-atomic structural imaging of organelle interfaces using cryo-tomography and nanoscale resolution imaging of organelle interfaces and proton tracking using ultra-fast spectroscopy. Results of these studies indicate that protons in neurons do not diffuse randomly throughout the neuron but instead exist in organized geometric configurations. The cristae of mitochondrial cells create oscillating proton micro-domains that are influenced by the curvature of the cristae, hydrogen bonding between molecules, and localized changes in dielectric properties that result in time-patterned proton signals that can be used to determine the metabolic load of the cell and the redox state of its mitochondria. These proton patterns also communicate to the rest of the cell via hydrated aligned proton-conductive pathways at the mitochon-dria-endoplasmic reticulum junctions, through acidic lipid regions, and through nano-tethered contact sites between mitochondria and other organelles, which are typically spaced approximately 10–25 nm apart. Other proton architectures exist in lysosomes, endosomes, and synaptic vesicles. In each of these organelles, the V-ATPase generates steep concentration gradients across their membranes, controlling the rate of cargo removal from the lumen of the organelle, recycling receptors from the surface of the membrane, and loading neurotransmitters into the vesicles. Recent super-resolution pH mapping has indicated that populations of synaptic vesicles contain significant heterogeneity in the amount of protons they contain, thereby influencing the amount of neurotransmitter released per vesicle, the probability of vesicle release, and the degree of post-synaptic receptor protonation. Additionally, proton gradients in each organelle interact with the cytoskeleton: the protonation status of actin and microtubules influences filament stiffness, protein–protein interactions, and organelle movement, resulting in the formation of localized spatial structures that may possess some type of computational significance. At multiple scales, it appears that neurons integrate the proton micro-domains with mechanical tension fields, dielectric nanodomains, and phase-state transitions to form distributed computing elements whose behavior is determined by the integration of energy flow, organelle geometry, and the organization of soft materials. Alterations to the proton landscape in neurons (e.g., due to alterations in cristae structure, drift in luminal pH, disruption in the hydration-structure of the cell, or imbalance in the protonation of cytoskeletal components) could disrupt the intracellular signaling network well before the onset of measurable electrical or biochemical pathologies. This article will summarize evidence indicating that proton–organelle interaction provides a previously unknown source of energetic substrate for neural computation. Using an integrated approach combining nanoscale proton energy, organelle interface geometry, cytoskeletal mechanics, and AI-based multiscale models, this article outlines current principles and unresolved questions related to the subject area as well as possible new approaches to early detection and precise intervention of pathological conditions related to altered intracellular energy flow. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Synapse: Diversity, Function and Signaling)
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10 pages, 3074 KB  
Article
A Method for Preparing Diamond Films with High Thermal Stability
by Xia Zhao, Chao Han, Xin Jia and Zifeng Fan
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(21), 1606; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15211606 - 22 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 916
Abstract
Due to the outstanding thermal stability of diamond film, diamond films have extensive application prospects in fields such as electronics, optics, biomedicine, and aerospace, and are one of the important materials driving the development of modern science and technology. Moreover, the cost of [...] Read more.
Due to the outstanding thermal stability of diamond film, diamond films have extensive application prospects in fields such as electronics, optics, biomedicine, and aerospace, and are one of the important materials driving the development of modern science and technology. Moreover, the cost of single-crystal diamond substrates is high, and it is difficult to achieve large-scale batch production. A direct current arc plasma jet chemical vapor deposition method, combined with post-treatment steps such as nano-diamond seed crystal implantation, surface modification, and high-temperature annealing, is used to prepare high-quality diamond films. The relationship between the thermal conductivity and optical properties of diamond films is analyzed in detail. The experimental results showed that diamond film has a relatively smooth surface, with a surface roughness that can reach 3 nm. As the temperature rises, diamond films exhibit good crystal orientation and thermal stability, the FWHM of reflection peaks become smaller, and thermal conductivity can reach 1734 W/(m·K). The infrared testing analysis also confirmed that the diamond film has excellent thermal diffusion properties. When the diamond film is applied to power device chips, it can effectively reduce the junction temperature of 30 °C. The preparation method proposed in this paper is expected to break through the cost and scale limitations of high-performance diamond films, thereby promoting the wide application of diamond films in industries. Full article
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23 pages, 6645 KB  
Article
Encapsulation Process and Dynamic Characterization of SiC Half-Bridge Power Module: Electro-Thermal Co-Design and Experimental Validation
by Kaida Cai, Jing Xiao, Xingwei Su, Qiuhui Tang and Huayuan Deng
Micromachines 2025, 16(7), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16070824 - 19 Jul 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3823
Abstract
Silicon carbide (SiC) half-bridge power modules are widely utilized in new energy power generation, electric vehicles, and industrial power supplies. To address the research gap in collaborative validation between electro-thermal coupling models and process reliability, this paper proposes a closed-loop methodology of “design-simulation-process-validation”. [...] Read more.
Silicon carbide (SiC) half-bridge power modules are widely utilized in new energy power generation, electric vehicles, and industrial power supplies. To address the research gap in collaborative validation between electro-thermal coupling models and process reliability, this paper proposes a closed-loop methodology of “design-simulation-process-validation”. This approach integrates in-depth electro-thermal simulation (LTspice XVII/COMSOL Multiphysics 6.3) with micro/nano-packaging processes (sintering/bonding). Firstly, a multifunctional double-pulse test board was designed for the dynamic characterization of SiC devices. LTspice simulations revealed the switching characteristics under an 800 V operating condition. Subsequently, a thermal simulation model was constructed in COMSOL to quantify the module junction temperature gradient (25 °C → 80 °C). Key process parameters affecting reliability were then quantified, including conductive adhesive sintering (S820-F680, 39.3 W/m·K), high-temperature baking at 175 °C, and aluminum wire bonding (15 mil wire diameter and 500 mW ultrasonic power/500 g bonding force). Finally, a double-pulse dynamic test platform was established to capture switching transient characteristics. Experimental results demonstrated the following: (1) The packaged module successfully passed the 800 V high-voltage validation. Measured drain current (4.62 A) exhibited an error of <0.65% compared to the simulated value (4.65 A). (2) The simulated junction temperature (80 °C) was significantly below the safety threshold (175 °C). (3) Microscopic examination using a Leica IVesta 3 microscope (55× magnification) confirmed the absence of voids at the sintering and bonding interfaces. (4) Frequency-dependent dynamic characterization revealed a 6 nH parasitic inductance via Ansys Q3D 2025 R1 simulation, with experimental validation at 8.3 nH through double-pulse testing. Thermal evaluations up to 200 kHz indicated 109 °C peak temperature (below 175 °C datasheet limit) and low switching losses. This work provides a critical process benchmark for the micro/nano-manufacturing of high-density SiC modules. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Micro/Nanofabrication, 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 1886 KB  
Article
Comparative Evaluation of Tooth Discoloration Induced by an Experimental Antibiotic Paste Modified with Nano Chitosan: An In Vitro Study
by Mohamed Ahmed Elsayed, Md Sofiqul Islam, Safiya Ali, Zainab Hussain, Muhammed Mustahsen Rahman and Okba Mahmoud
Dent. J. 2025, 13(7), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13070307 - 9 Jul 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2714
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Tooth discoloration is a common concern associated with the use of intra-canal medicaments, particularly those containing antibiotics. This study aims to evaluate the tooth discoloration potential of an experimental antibiotic paste modified with Nano Chitosan (APNC) and compare it with two antibiotic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Tooth discoloration is a common concern associated with the use of intra-canal medicaments, particularly those containing antibiotics. This study aims to evaluate the tooth discoloration potential of an experimental antibiotic paste modified with Nano Chitosan (APNC) and compare it with two antibiotic pastes and two calcium hydroxide-based pastes over different time intervals. Methods: Fifty bovine incisors were standardized and prepared up to size 60. The teeth were randomly assigned into five groups based on the medicament applied: Metapaste, Metapex, modified Triple Antibiotic Paste (mTAP), Double Antibiotic Paste (DAP), and APNC. A digital spectrophotometer was used to measure the color parameters (L*, a*, and b*) at two zones, above and below the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), across four-time points: before application (T0- baseline), immediately after application (T1), after two weeks (T2), and after one month (T3). The color changes (ΔE) were calculated and statistically analyzed using repeated-measure ANOVA. Results: Statistically significant differences in discoloration were observed between the tested medicaments after one month (p < 0.05). mTAP caused the highest ΔE values both above and below the CEJ at all time points, particularly after one month (p < 0.05). Conversely, APNC, Metapaste, and DAP demonstrated the least discoloration, with no significant differences among them. The degree of discoloration was time-dependent and more pronounced below the CEJ in all groups. Conclusions: After one month, the experimental APNC paste induced tooth discoloration comparable to that of Metapaste, indicating minimal esthetic compromise. APNC may be a promising alternative to traditional antibiotic pastes with minimal discoloration effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dental Materials)
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37 pages, 5280 KB  
Review
Thermal Issues Related to Hybrid Bonding of 3D-Stacked High Bandwidth Memory: A Comprehensive Review
by Seung-Hoon Lee, Su-Jong Kim, Ji-Su Lee and Seok-Ho Rhi
Electronics 2025, 14(13), 2682; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14132682 - 2 Jul 2025
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 19730
Abstract
High-Bandwidth Memory (HBM) enables the bandwidth required by modern AI and high-performance computing, yet its three dimensional stack traps heat and amplifies thermo mechanical stress. We first review how conventional solutions such as heat spreaders, microchannels, high density Through-Silicon Vias (TSVs), and Mass [...] Read more.
High-Bandwidth Memory (HBM) enables the bandwidth required by modern AI and high-performance computing, yet its three dimensional stack traps heat and amplifies thermo mechanical stress. We first review how conventional solutions such as heat spreaders, microchannels, high density Through-Silicon Vias (TSVs), and Mass Reflow Molded Underfill (MR MUF) underfills lower but do not eliminate the internal thermal resistance that rises sharply beyond 12layer stacks. We then synthesize recent hybrid bonding studies, showing that an optimized Cu pad density, interface characteristic, and mechanical treatments can cut junction-to-junction thermal resistance by between 22.8% and 47%, raise vertical thermal conductivity by up to three times, and shrink the stack height by more than 15%. A meta-analysis identifies design thresholds such as at least 20% Cu coverage that balances heat flow, interfacial stress, and reliability. The review next traces the chain from Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) mismatch to Cu protrusion, delamination, and warpage and classifies mitigation strategies into (i) material selection including SiCN dielectrics, nano twinned Cu, and polymer composites, (ii) process technologies such as sub-200 °C plasma-activated bonding and Chemical Mechanical Polishing (CMP) anneal co-optimization, and (iii) the structural design, including staggered stack and filleted corners. Integrating these levers suppresses stress hotspots and extends fatigue life in more than 16layer stacks. Finally, we outline a research roadmap combining a multiscale simulation with high layer prototyping to co-optimize thermal, mechanical, and electrical metrics for next-generation 20-layer HBM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Semiconductor Devices)
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19 pages, 3123 KB  
Article
Giant Chemo-Resistive Response of POSS Nano-Spacers in PS- and PMMA-Based Quantum Resistive Vapour Sensors (vQRS) Used for Cancer Biomarker Analysis
by Abhishek Sachan, Mickaël Castro, Veena Choudhary and Jean-François Feller
Chemosensors 2025, 13(7), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors13070226 - 21 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1048
Abstract
The detection of volatile organic compound (VOC) biomarkers from the volatolome for the anticipated diagnosis of severe diseases such as cancers is made difficult due to the presence of high quantities of H2O in the collected samples. It has been shown [...] Read more.
The detection of volatile organic compound (VOC) biomarkers from the volatolome for the anticipated diagnosis of severe diseases such as cancers is made difficult due to the presence of high quantities of H2O in the collected samples. It has been shown that water molecules tend to compete or combine themselves with analytes, which requires either their removal or the development of more sensitive and discriminant sensors. In this later prospect, a positive effect of poly(hedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes) (POSS) is sought out to enhance the sensitivity of carbon nanotube-based quantum resistive vapour sensors (vQRS). POSS, once copolymerized with methyl methacrylate or styrene, can be used as nano-spacers amplifying the disconnection of the nano-junctions due to swelling of the polymer upon the diffusion of VOC. The amplitude of this phenomenon, which is at the origin of the chemo-resistive behaviour of vQRS, was compared with that of homologue transducers made of poly(styrene) (PS) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-coated carbon nanotube (CNT) random networks. The presence of POSS in PS-based sensors has enhanced their sensitivity by 213 times for toluene, by 268 times for acetone, by 4 times for ethanol, and by 187 times for cyclohexane. Similarly, the presence of POSS in PMMA chains increases the sensitivity of sensors to cyclohexane by 10 times, to ethanol by 45 times, to toluene by 244 times, and to acetone and butanone by 4 times. All transducers were made by spray layer by layer (sLbL) to obtain a hierarchically structured conducting architecture. The transducers’ surface was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to observe the CNT coating and dispersion level in the matrix. All sensors were tested with twenty-one VOC part of lung and skin cancer biomarkers by using a dynamic vapour analysis (DVA). The vQRS based on POSS copolymers demonstrated much larger chemo-resistive responses (AR) than the sensors based only on pure polymers and were found to be very selective towards cyclohexane and hexene-1. The PMMA-co-POSS/CNT sensor was able to detect down to 12 ppm of VOC with a very high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and to discriminate six VOC among them all with a PCA (principal component analysis) projection. Full article
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17 pages, 4964 KB  
Article
Spatial Patterns in Fibrous Materials: A Metrological Framework for Pores and Junctions
by Efi-Maria Papia, Vassilios Constantoudis, Youmin Hou, Prexa Shah, Michael Kappl and Evangelos Gogolides
Metrology 2025, 5(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/metrology5020026 - 7 May 2025
Viewed by 1302
Abstract
Several materials widely used in scientific research and industrial applications, including nano-filters and neuromorphic circuits, consist of fiber structures. Despite the fundamental structural similarity, the key feature that should be considered depends on the specific application. In the case of membranes and filters, [...] Read more.
Several materials widely used in scientific research and industrial applications, including nano-filters and neuromorphic circuits, consist of fiber structures. Despite the fundamental structural similarity, the key feature that should be considered depends on the specific application. In the case of membranes and filters, the main concern has been on the pores among fibers, whereas in neuromorphic networks the main functionality is performed through the junctions of nanowires simulating neuron synapses for information dissemination. Precise metrological characterization of these structural features, along with methods for their effective control and replication, is essential for optimizing performance across various applications. This paper presents a comprehensive metrological framework for characterizing the spatial point patterns formed by pores or junctions within fibrous materials. The aim is to probe the influence of fiber randomness on both the point patterns of intersections (ppi) and pores (ppp). Our findings indicate a strong tendency of ppi toward aggregation, contrasting with a tendency of ppp toward periodicity and consequent pore uniformity. Both patterns are characterized by peculiarities related to collinearity effects on neighboring points that cannot be captured by the conventional anisotropy analysis of point patterns. To characterize local collinearity, we develop a method that counts the number of collinear triplets of nearest neighbor points in a pattern and designs an appropriate parameter to quantify them, also applied to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of membranes, demonstrating consistency with simulated data. Full article
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24 pages, 8567 KB  
Article
Integrated lncRNA and mRNA Transcriptome Analyses of IGF1 and IGF2 Stimulated Ovaries Reveal Genes and Pathways Potentially Associated with Ovarian Development and Oocyte Maturation in Golden Pompano (Trachinotus ovatus)
by Charles Brighton Ndandala, Yuwen Guo, Zhimin Ju, Muhammad Fachri, Happiness Moses Mwemi and Huapu Chen
Animals 2025, 15(8), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15081134 - 15 Apr 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1599
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) play crucial roles in the regulation of animal growth and reproduction. However, the functional and regulatory mechanisms underlying ovarian growth and oocyte maturation in teleosts remain unclear. In this study, the expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs were analyzed [...] Read more.
Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) play crucial roles in the regulation of animal growth and reproduction. However, the functional and regulatory mechanisms underlying ovarian growth and oocyte maturation in teleosts remain unclear. In this study, the expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs were analyzed in the ovaries of golden pompano (Trachinotus ovatus) treated with IGF1 and IGF2 proteins to gain insights into the role of these two IGF ligands in the regulation of ovarian development and maturation. A total of 1494 lncRNAs and 8728 mRNAs were differentially expressed following IGF1 treatment compared with the control group. A total of 101 lncRNAs and 377 mRNAs were differentially expressed after IGF2 treatment compared to those in the control group. The results revealed that KEGG pathways enriched by target genes of the DE lncRNAs overlapped significantly with those enriched by the DE mRNAs in both the IGF1 and IGF2 groups. The key overlapping enriched pathways included ECM receptor interaction, gap junction, Hedgehog signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway, Rap1 signaling pathway, TGF beta signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, GnRH signaling pathway, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, oocyte meiosis, cell cycle, and MAPK signaling pathway. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in ovarian development and oocyte maturation were cyp17a1, cyp19a1, star, hsd17b3, hsd17b7, adam23, slc26a6, htr2b, h2ax, nanos3, krt18, pgr, and inhbb, following IGF1 and IGF2 treatment. Furthermore, four lncRNAs (MSTRG.66521.1, MSTRG.49969.1, MSTRG.59923.1, and MSTRG.13767.1) for IGF1 and two (MSTRG.20896.2 and MSTRG.58123.2) for IGF2 within the lncRNA–mRNA network were found to target DEGs related to ovarian development and maturation. This suggests that IGFs may affect reproductive processes by regulating the expression of lncRNAs and mRNAs. RT-qPCR analysis revealed that these six lncRNAs showed high expression levels in the brain, pituitary, liver, and gonad tissues, indicating their potential involvement in regulating ovarian growth and development. This study elucidates the lncRNA–mRNA regulatory mechanism in response to IGF1 and IGF2 treatment during stage III of ovarian development in golden pompano, thereby deepening our understanding of its functional role. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aquatic Animals)
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15 pages, 5399 KB  
Article
Studies on Morphological Evolution of Gravure-Printed ZnO Thin Films Induced by Low-Temperature Vapor Post-Treatment
by Giuliano Sico, Vincenzo Guarino, Carmela Borriello and Maria Montanino
Nanomaterials 2024, 14(24), 2006; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano14242006 - 13 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1878
Abstract
In recent years, the morphology control of semiconductor nanomaterials has been attracting increasing attention toward maximizing their functional properties and reaching their end use in real-world devices. However, the development of easy and cost-effective methods for preparing large-scale patterned semiconductor structures on flexible [...] Read more.
In recent years, the morphology control of semiconductor nanomaterials has been attracting increasing attention toward maximizing their functional properties and reaching their end use in real-world devices. However, the development of easy and cost-effective methods for preparing large-scale patterned semiconductor structures on flexible temperature-sensitive substrates remains ever in demand. In this study, vapor post-treatment (VPT) is investigated as a potential, simple and low-cost post-preparative method to morphologically modify gravure-printed zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticulate thin films at low temperatures. Exposing nanoparticles (NPs) to acidic vapor solution, spontaneous restructuring pathways are observed as a consequence of NPs tending to reduce their high interfacial energy. Depending on the imposed environmental conditions during the treatment (e.g., temperature, vapor composition), various ZnO thin-film morphologies are produced, from dense to porous ones, as a result of the activation and interplay of different spontaneous interface elimination mechanisms, including dissolution–precipitation, grain boundary migration and grain rotation–coalescence. The influence of VPT on structural/optical properties has been examined via XRD, UV–visible and photoluminescence measurements. Controlling NP junctions and network nanoporosity, VPT appears as promising cost-effective, low-temperature and pressureless post-preparative platform for preparing supported ZnO NP-based films with improved connectivity and mechanical stability, favoring their practical use and integration in flexible devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Chemistry at Nanoscale)
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20 pages, 2735 KB  
Article
Functional Nano-Metallic Coatings for Solar Cells: Their Theoretical Background and Modeling
by Witold Aleksander Jacak
Coatings 2024, 14(11), 1410; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14111410 - 6 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1390
Abstract
We have collected theoretical arguments supporting the functional role of nano-metallic coatings of solar cells, which enhance solar cell efficiency via by plasmon-strengthening the absorption of sun-light photons and reducing the binding energy of photoexcitons. The quantum character of the plasmonic effect related [...] Read more.
We have collected theoretical arguments supporting the functional role of nano-metallic coatings of solar cells, which enhance solar cell efficiency via by plasmon-strengthening the absorption of sun-light photons and reducing the binding energy of photoexcitons. The quantum character of the plasmonic effect related to the absorption of photons (called the optical plasmonic effect) is described in terms of the Fermi golden rule for the quantum transitions of semiconductor-band electrons induced by plasmons from a nano-metallic coating. The plasmonic effect related to the lowering of the exciton binding energy (called the electrical plasmonic effect) is of particular significance for metalized perovskite solar cells and is also characterized in quantum mechanics terms. The coupling between plasmons in nanoparticles from a coating with band electrons in a semiconductor substrate significantly modifies material properties (dielectric functions) both of the particles and the semiconductor, beyond the ability of the classical electrodynamics to describe. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perovskite Films as Functional Coatings: Synthesis and Applications)
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12 pages, 537 KB  
Article
Impacts of Nano-Composite of Copper and Carbon on Intestinal Luminal Micro-Ecosystem and Mucosal Homeostasis of Yellow-Feather Broilers
by Xianglin Wang, Chunlong Xiao, Shuqing Wu, Qingjie Lin, Shiying Lin, Jing Liu, Dingcheng Ye, Changkang Wang and Pingting Guo
Microorganisms 2024, 12(11), 2247; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12112247 - 6 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1572
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to evaluate the impacts of nano-composites of copper and carbon (NCCC) on the intestinal luminal micro-ecosystem and mucosal homeostasis of yellow-feather broilers. A total of two-hundred and forty 1-day-old male yellow-feather broilers were randomly allocated into four groups, [...] Read more.
The present study was undertaken to evaluate the impacts of nano-composites of copper and carbon (NCCC) on the intestinal luminal micro-ecosystem and mucosal homeostasis of yellow-feather broilers. A total of two-hundred and forty 1-day-old male yellow-feather broilers were randomly allocated into four groups, each with five replications of twelve birds. The control (CON) group received a corn-soybean basal diet, while the N50, N100, and N200 groups were supplemented with 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg of NCCC in basal diets, respectively. The trial duration was 63 days. The findings demonstrated that there were slight impacts of NCCC addition on the intestinal luminal micro-ecosystem of broilers, with the fecal moisture content in the N100 group being slightly higher on Day 3 in the starter phase (p < 0.05). The cecal microbiota structure also did not obviously change (p > 0.05), in spite of the fall in the relative abundance of the Ruminococcus torques group in the N50 group and norank Clostridia UCG-014 in N200 group (p < 0.05). But for intestinal mucosal homeostasis, NCCC played a crucial part in jejunal morphology, tight junction, immunologic status, and antioxidant capacity. There was linear growth in villus height and a quadratic increase in villus height, crypt depth and their ratio with the increase in NCCC dosage (p < 0.05), and 100 mg/kg NCCC supplementation could intensify the expression of CLDN-3 genes (p < 0.05). In addition, IL-4 and IL-10 linearly increased after NCCC treatment (p < 0.05), along with some irregular changes in sIgA (p < 0.05). In addition, higher jejunal mucosal total antioxidant capacities in N50 and N200 groups were also observed (p < 0.05). Overall, NCCC treatment optimized the intestinal mucosa function of broilers in terms of physical barrier and immune and antioxidant capacities, but exerted subtle influence in the luminal environment of yellow-feather broilers. More precisely, dietary supplementation with 50 mg/kg NCCC is recommended for intestinal homeostasis of broilers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary and Animal Gut Microbiota)
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18 pages, 4720 KB  
Article
Optimization of the Active Layer Thickness for Inverted Ternary Organic Solar Cells Achieves 20% Efficiency with Simulation
by Mohamed El Amine Boudia, Qiuwang Wang and Cunlu Zhao
Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 6159; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16146159 - 18 Jul 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3681
Abstract
Energy harvesting from cleaner sources and preserving the environment from dangerous gasses are presently the key priorities globally to maintain sustainable development. In this context, photovoltaic technology plays a vital role in generating energy from ternary organic solar cells. Ternary organic solar cells [...] Read more.
Energy harvesting from cleaner sources and preserving the environment from dangerous gasses are presently the key priorities globally to maintain sustainable development. In this context, photovoltaic technology plays a vital role in generating energy from ternary organic solar cells. Ternary organic solar cells display significant potential for achieving outstanding photovoltaic performance compared to binary structures. Over the past few years, significant endeavors to develop novel organic materials have led to a consistent rise in efficiency, surpassing 19% for single-junction devices. In our study, we simulated an inverted ternary organic solar cell (TOSC) structure employing the one-dimensional optical and drift diffusion model and using “Oghma-Nano 8.0.034” software by optimizing the active blend thickness at 80 nm within the structure of ITO/SnO2/PM6:D18:L8-BO/PEDOT:PSS/Ag. We simulated different performance parameters such as EQE, Photo-CELIV, PCE, Jsc, Voc, and FF with different active layer thicknesses ranging from 50 to 200 nm to discover the behavior of the device in terms of efficiency parameters. Furthermore, the structure attained a PCE of 20% for an active layer thickness of 80 nm within a Jsc of 27.2 mA cm−2, a Voc of 0.89 V, and an FF of 82.3%. This approach can potentially be valuable in constructing a highly effective TOSC model in the laboratory. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)
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21 pages, 6113 KB  
Article
Exploring Heterointerface Characteristics and Charge-Storage Dynamics in ALD-Developed Ultra-Thin TiO2-In2O3/Au Heterojunctions
by Mohammad Karbalaei Akbari, Nasrin Siraj Lopa and Serge Zhuiykov
Coatings 2024, 14(7), 880; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14070880 - 14 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1731
Abstract
Directional ionic migration in ultra-thin metal-oxide semiconductors under applied electric fields is a key mechanism for developing various electronic nanodevices. However, understanding charge transfer dynamics is challenging due to rapid ionic migration and uncontrolled charge transfer, which can reduce the functionality of microelectronic [...] Read more.
Directional ionic migration in ultra-thin metal-oxide semiconductors under applied electric fields is a key mechanism for developing various electronic nanodevices. However, understanding charge transfer dynamics is challenging due to rapid ionic migration and uncontrolled charge transfer, which can reduce the functionality of microelectronic devices. This research investigates the supercapacitive-coupled memristive characteristics of ultra-thin heterostructured metal-oxide semiconductor films at TiO2-In2O3/Au Schottky junctions. Using atomic layer deposition (ALD), we nano-engineered In2O3/Au-based metal/semiconductor heterointerfaces. TEM studies followed by XPS elemental analysis revealed the chemical and structural characteristics of the heterointerfaces. Subsequent AFM studies of the hybrid heterointerfaces demonstrated supercapacitor-like behavior in nanometer-thick TiO2-In2O3/Au junctions, resembling ultra-thin supercapacitors, pseudocapacitors, and nanobatteries. The highest specific capacitance of 2.6 × 104 F.g−1 was measured in the TiO2-In2O3/Au junctions with an amorphous In2O3 electron gate. Additionally, we examined the impact of crystallization, finding that thermal annealing led to the formation of crystalline In2O3 films with higher oxygen vacancy content at TiO2-In2O3 heterointerfaces. This crystallization process resulted in the evolution of non-zero I-V hysteresis loops into zero I-V hysteresis loops with supercapacitive-coupled memristive characteristics. This research provides a platform for understanding and designing adjustable ultra-thin Schottky junctions with versatile electronic properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Films and Coatings Based on Atomic Layer Deposition)
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11 pages, 2841 KB  
Article
Microscale Lateral Perovskite Light Emitting Diode Realized by Self-Doping Phenomenon
by Wenzhe Gao, He Huang, Chenming Wang, Yongzhe Zhang, Zilong Zheng, Jinpeng Li and Xiaoqing Chen
Sensors 2024, 24(14), 4454; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24144454 - 10 Jul 2024
Viewed by 2238
Abstract
High-definition near-eye display technology has extremely close sight distance, placing a higher demand on the size, performance, and array of light-emitting pixel devices. Based on the excellent photoelectric performance of metal halide perovskite materials, perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have high photoelectric conversion efficiency, [...] Read more.
High-definition near-eye display technology has extremely close sight distance, placing a higher demand on the size, performance, and array of light-emitting pixel devices. Based on the excellent photoelectric performance of metal halide perovskite materials, perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have high photoelectric conversion efficiency, adjustable emission spectra, and excellent charge transfer characteristics, demonstrating great prospects as next-generation light sources. Despite their potential, the solubility of perovskite in photoresist presents a hurdle for conventional micro/nano processing techniques, resulting in device sizes typically exceeding 50 μm. This limitation impedes the further downsizing of perovskite-based components. Herein, we propose a plane-structured PeLED device that can achieve microscale light-emitting diodes with a single pixel device size < 2 μm and a luminescence lifetime of approximately 3 s. This is accomplished by fabricating a patterned substrate and regulating ion distribution in the perovskite through self-doping effects to form a PN junction. This breakthrough overcomes the technical challenge of perovskite–photoresist incompatibility, which has hindered the development of perovskite materials in micro/nano optoelectronic devices. The strides made in this study open up promising avenues for the advancement of PeLEDs within the realm of micro/nano optoelectronic devices. Full article
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