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Background: Previous research has underscored the correlation between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and erectile dysfunction (ED). However, due to inherent limitations of observational studies, the causative relationship remains inconclusive. Methods: Utilizing publicly available data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics, this study probed the potential causal association between AD and ED using univariate Mendelian randomization (MR). Further, the multivariable MR assessed the confounding effects of six cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The primary approach employed was inverse variance weighted (IVW), supplemented by three additional methods. A series of sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure the robustness of the results. Results: In the forward MR analysis, the IVW method revealed causal evidence of genetically predicted AD being a risk factor for ED (OR = 1.077, 95% CI 1.007∼1.152, P = 0.031). Reverse analysis did not demonstrate any causal evidence linking ED to AD (OR = 1.018, 95% CI 0.974∼1.063, P = 0.430). Multivariable MR analysis showed that after adjusting for coronary heart disease (OR = 1.082, 95% CI 0.009∼1.160, P = 0.027), myocardial infarction (OR = 1.085, 95% CI 1.012∼1.163, P = 0.022), atrial fibrillation (OR = 1.076, 95% CI 1.002∼1.154, P = 0.043), heart failure (OR = 1.103, 95% CI 1.024∼1.188, P = 0.010), ischemic stroke (OR = 1.079, 95% CI 1.009∼1.154, P = 0.027), hypertension (OR = 1.092, 95% CI 1.011∼1.180, P = 0.025), and all models (OR = 1.115, 95% CI 1.024∼1.214, P = 0.012), the causal association between AD and ED persisted. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the absence of pleiotropy, heterogeneity, and outliers, validating the robustness of our results (P > 0.05). Conclusions: This MR study consistently evidences a causal effect of genetically predicted AD on the risk of ED, independent of certain CVDs, yet offers no evidence for a reverse effect from ED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic liquid salts (ILs) are generally recognized as additives in perovskite precursor solutions to enhance the efficiency and stability of solar cells. However, the success of ILs incorporation as additives is highly dependent on the precursor formulation and perovskite crystallization process, posing challenges for industrial‐scale implementation. In this study, a room‐temperature spin‐coated IL, n‐butylamine acetate (BAAc), is identified as an ideal passivation agent for formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3) films. Compared with other passivation methods, the room‐temperature BAAc capping layer (BAAc RT) demonstrates more uniform and thorough passivation of surface defects in the FAPbI3 perovskite. Additionally, it provides better energy level alignment for hole extraction. As a result, the champion n–i–p perovskite solar cell with a BAAc capping layer exhibits a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.76%, with an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.19 V, and a Voc loss of ≈330 mV. The PCE of the perovskite mini‐module with BAAc RT reaches 20.47%, showcasing the effectiveness and viability of this method for manufacturing large‐area perovskite solar cells. Moreover, the BAAc passivation layer also improves the long‐term stability of unencapsulated FAPbI3 perovskite solar cells, enabling a T80 lifetime of 3500 h when stored at 35% relative humidity at room temperature in an air atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of machine vision demands accurate image capture under different lighting conditions, which is crucial for perceiving the environment correctly. In this paper, we present a human-eye-inspired sensor based on quasi-two-dimensional perovskite and indium gallium zinc oxide phototransistor array. The sensor exhibits a light detection limit as low as 6.1 nW/cm2 with a responsivity of 5 × 105 A/W, capable of perceiving light in visible spectrum range. It demonstrates light adaptation under both dim and illuminated conditions, enhancing the contrast between images and ambient light, while achieving a dynamic range of 162 dB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monolithic integration of perovskite materials and their optoelectronic devices with well‐developed thin‐film transistor (TFT) backplane is leading to new applications in displays and image sensors. Herein, a scalable polyimide assisted patterning approach for monolithic integration of perovskite based high‐sensitive phototransistor array on indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) active matrix backplane is introduced. Polyimide vias are first formed by conventional photolithography process, through which uniform perovskite films of arbitrary patterns with feature size less than 20 µm are fabricated by spin‐on‐patterning method. Using this technique, patterns of quasi 2D perovskite photoabsorbing layer are precisely deposited onto the channel area of the photosensing IGZO TFT, forming high‐performance phototransistors with responsivity and detectivity reaching 835.7 A W−1 and 5.4 × 1012 Jones, respectively. An image sensor with 8 × 8 pixels array containing both photosensing perovskite/IGZO transistors and switching IGZO transistors is demonstrated, in which the switching IGZO transistor elements on the backplane are protected by the non‐patterned region of the polyimide encapsulation layer. This whole fabrication process is compatible with TFT manufacturing process and will significantly reduce the cost needed for constructing next generation high‐resolution image sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All‐inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have developed rapidly in the field of photovoltaics due to their excellent thermal and light stability. However, compared with organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites, the phase instability of inorganic perovskite under humidity still remains as a critical issue that hampers the commercialization of inorganic PSCs. We originally propose in this work that microstrains between the perovskite lattices/grains play a key role in affecting the phase stability of inorganic perovskite. To this end, we innovatively design the π‐conjugated p‐type molecule bis(2‐ethylhexyl) 3,3′((4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐3,4‐difluorothiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl)bis(3,3″‐dioctyl[2,2′:5′,2″‐terthiophene]‐5″,5‐diyl))(2E,2′E)‐bis(2‐cyanoacrylate) (BTEC‐2F) to covalent with the Pb dangling bonds in CsPbI2Br perovskite film, which significantly suppress the trap states and release the defect‐induced local stress between perovskite grains. The interplay between the microstrains and phase stability of the inorganic perovskite are scrutinized by a series of characterizations including x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence, x‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and so forth, based on which, we conclude that weaker local stresses in the perovskite film engender superior phase stability by preventing the perovskite lattice distortion under humidity. By this rational design, PSCs based on CsPbI2Br perovskite system deliver an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 16.25%. The unencapsulated device also exhibits an exceptional moisture stability by retaining over 80% of the initial PCE after 500 h aging in ambient with relative humidity of (RH) 25%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnO2 has been universally applied as electron transporting layer (ETL) towards the fabrication of highly efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs), owing to its unique advantages including low‐temperature solution‐processability, high optical, transmittance and good electrical conductivity. Uncoordinated Sn‐dangling bonds on SnO2 surface exist as deep traps to capture the photogenerated carriers, causing hysteresis and device instability. Fullerene derivatives, though being widely utilized as the passivator for SnO2, are highly prone to self‐aggregate due to their π‐cage structures, which hampers passivation. Herein, π‐conjugated n‐type small molecules with better film formation ability are innovatively designed, to improve passivation effectiveness. By exploring the interplay between molecular stacking of small molecules and charge transporting/recombination dynamics at the SnO2/perovskite interface, it is unveiled that a more compact molecular packing of the organic passivators yields superior interfacial characteristics, in terms of fewer trap states, lower charge recombination and higher electron transporting efficiency. An impressive PCE over 23% is achieved with the assistance of this new‐type SnO2‐passivator, which is among the highest reported value for triple‐cation perovskite systems to date. This work offers an original concept for the design and synthesis of ETL passivators towards the development of high performance and stable PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The SnO 2 electron transport layer (ETL) has been recognized as one of the most effective protocols for achieving high-efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). To date, most research has primarily focused on the modification of the upper surface of SnO 2 ETL films. The lower surface of the SnO 2 film, which directly influences the film formation of solution-processed SnO 2 , is equally important but receives relatively less attention. Herein, we present a synergetic optimization approach involving the deposition of aluminum oxide (AlO x ) via atomic layer deposition (ALD) as a buffer layer and the incorporation of rubidium acetate (RbAc) as an upper surface passivation additive. This process leads to a conformal coating of SnO 2 nanoparticles, improved electrical performance, and higher-quality perovskite crystals. As a result, with this composite ETL film, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) reached 22.41 from 20.77%. Further modification with p -butyl iodide (BAI) on the perovskite upper surface increased the champion PCE to 23.32%, with a voltage loss of 0.41 V, ranking among the lowest values for the triple-cation mixed-halide perovskite absorber (1.58 eV). Importantly, the perovskite solar cells remained 87.30% of its initial performance after 14 days of aging and exhibited photostability under long-term UV (254 nm) illumination.

Ionic liquid salts (ILs) are generally recognized as additives in perovskite precursor solutions to enhance the efficiency and stability of solar cells. However, the success of ILs incorporation as additives is highly dependent on the precursor formulation and perovskite crystallization process, posing challenges for industrial-scale implementation. In this study, a room-temperature spin-coated IL, n-butylamine acetate (BAAc), is identified as an ideal passivation agent for formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI 3 ) films. Compared with other passivation methods, the room-temperature BAAc capping layer (BAAc RT) demonstrates more uniform and thorough passivation of surface defects in the FAPbI 3 perovskite. Additionally, it provides better energy level alignment for hole extraction. As a result, the champion n-i-p perovskite solar cell with a BAAc capping layer exhibits a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 24.76%, with an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.19 V, and a Voc loss of ≈330 mV. The PCE of the perovskite mini-module with BAAc RT reaches 20.47%, showcasing the effectiveness and viability of this method for manufacturing large-area perovskite solar cells. Moreover, the BAAc passivation layer also improves the long-term stability of unencapsulated FAPbI 3 perovskite solar cells, enabling a T80 lifetime of  3500 h when stored at 35% relative humidity at room temperature in an air atmosphere., (© 2024 The Authors. Advanced Science published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Objective: To investigate the therapeutic mechanism of oxalis decoction on CNP rats by regulating cGAS-STING signaling pathway., Methods: Thirty specific pathogen-free SD male rats were randomly divided into normal control group (NC), model control group (MC), and oxalis decoction group (OD),with 10 rats in each group.The left and right anterior abdominal lobes of each group were surgically exposed.The normal control group was injected by the same volume of normal saline.After the model was successfully established,the OD group was given ［9.37g/(kg·d)］ by gavage once a day, and the NC and MC groups were given ［0.01/(mｌ/g)］ normal saline by gavage. From the 7th day of administration, the body weight of the rats in each group was recorded every 7 days for dynamic comparison. After 50 days of administration, the prostate index of the rats in each group was calculated, the morphological and pathological changes of the prostate tissue were observed by HE staining,and the expression levels of tumor necrosis factorα(TNF-α), interleukin-1β(IL-1β)and IL-6 in serum were detected by ELISA. RT-qPCR was used to detect the mRNA expression of cGAS, STING, TRAF6 and HSP70 in prostate tissue of rats in each group., Results: Versus the NC group and OD group, the prostate organ index in MC group was significantly higher than that in other groups (P<0.01). Versus the NC group, the HE staining results of the MC group showed that the prostate gland structure was disordered, and the interstitial and acinar epithelium were extensively edema, accompanied by a large number of lymphocyte infiltration, cell swelling, loose cytoplasm, and a small number of foam cells. Versus the MC group, HE staining showed that the edema of interstitial and acinar epithelial cells in the rat prostate tissue was reduced after the OD group intervention, and the inflammatory cell infiltration in the interstitium was significantly reduced.Versus to NC group, the expression levels of TNF-α,IL-1βandIL-6 in MC group were significantly increased（P<0.01 ).Versus to MC group,the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in OD group were decreased (P<0.05). Versus the NC group, the mRNA expression of cGAS, STING and TRAF6 in the MC group was significantly up-regulated,and HSP70mRNA was significantly down-regulated(P<0.01).Versus the MC group,the OD group had significantly decreased mRNA expression of cGAS, STING and TRAF6 and significantly increased mrna expression of HSP70(P<0.05)., Conclusions: CNP has autoimmune disorders that cause inflammatory responses.The key target for CNP treatment is to regulate innate immunity.The treatment with oxalis decoction can significantly improve the prostate organ index and pathological changes in CNP rats, which may be related to the down-regulation of cGAS-STING innate immune signaling pathway and the inhibition of inflammatory mediators secretion.

Objective： To explore the mechanism of Miao ethnicity medicine formula of Oxalis corniculata against chronic non-bacterial prostatitis. Methods: The rat model of chronic abacterial prostatitis was induced by stimulation with 2% sterile carrageenan solution. After modeling, the rats were randomly divided into two groups, Model control group (Model group) and oxalis group. Another normal control group was set up. The rats in the Model group and the normal control group were given 0.01ml/g normal saline by gavage, and the rats in the oxalis alis group were given 1ml/100g (1 g/kg) of Oxalis corniculata L warm water decoction by gavage once a day for 28 days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, 10ml blood was collected from the abdominal aorta of the rats, and prostate tissue samples were collected from the rats. hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was used to observe the morphological structure of the prostate in normal and prostatitis rats. ELISA was used to detect the levels of serum and prostate cytokines. The protein expressions of 4-HNE , ALDH2 and FGF2 were detected by Western blot. Results: Compared with the blank group, the model group showed obvious hyperplasia of fibrous tissue in the interstitium of the prostate tissue, disordered glandular structure, papillary hyperplasia of epithelial cells in the acini, infiltration of a small amount of lymphocytes, monocytes and other inflammatory cells in the acini, and increased pathological scores. The protein expressions of 4-HNE , ALDH2 , MCP-1 and FGF2 in prostate tissue were significantly increased. Compared with the model group, the prostate tissue of the oxalis group was slightly damaged, with a small amount of fibrous hyperplasia and inflammatory cell infiltration. The protein expressions of 4-HNE , ALDH2 , MCP-1 and FGF2 were decreased in prostate tissue. Conclusion： Oxalis corniculata L can effectively repair the pathological morphology of prostate tissue in rats with CNP, and its mechanism may be related to activating 4-HNE protein and reducing oxidative stress injury of prostate tissue in rats.

Objective: To explore the potential mechanism of action of levocarnitine in the treatment of epididymitis based on network pharmacology and experimental research., Methods: The target proteins related to epididymitis and levocarnitine were retrieved through multiple databases, and the common targets were obtained using Venny software. The protein-protein interactions were obtained using the STRING database. Cytoscape software was used for visualization, and key targets were selected after topological analysis. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed using the DAVID database. Molecular docking was performed using Autodock Vina., Results: A total of 130 drug targets and 2 151 disease targets were obtained, with 47 common targets. Protein-protein interaction network analysis identified core targets of levocarnitine in the treatment of epididymitis, including AKT1, HSP90AA1, ALB, CASP3, GSK3B, and GSR. KEGG pathway analysis suggested that metabolic pathways, lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis, cancer pathways, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, measles, chemical carcinogens-reactive oxygen species, purine metabolism, PI3K-Akt, and other signaling pathways may be associated with the mechanism of levocarnitine in the treatment of epididymitis., Conclusion: This study revealed through network pharmacology that levocarnitine may act on multiple signaling pathways by targeting AKT1, HSP90AA1, ALB, CASP3, GSK3B, GSR, etc., thereby potentially exerting therapeutic effects on epididymitis.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of Xiaoluanwan(II) in treating lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-induced epididymitis and its impact on the NLRP3 inflammasome., Methods: The murine epididymitis model was established through local injection of LPS. The study included a control group (n=5), a model group (n=5), a model group treated with Xiaoluanwan(II) (Ⅱ) (n=5), and a saline group treated with Xiaoluanwan(II) (n=5). After 14 consecutive days of oral administration of Xiaoluanwan(II) or physiological saline, pathological changes in the epididymal tissues, expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and Caspase-1, as well as associated protein levels were examined., Results: Compared to the model group, Xiaoluanwan(II) significantly alleviated inflammatory cell infiltration and lesions, as evidenced by a reduction in the protein expression levels of NLRP3, Caspase-1, Cleaved-Caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, GSDMD, and p-p38 MAPK (P<0.05 or P<0.01), thereby mitigating the inflammatory response., Conclusion: Xiaoluanwan(II) alleviates epididymal inflammation and ameliorates mouse epididymal epithelial injury by modulating the NLRP3-mediated cell pyroptosis pathway.

Objective: To explore the potential action mechanisms of Xiaoluowan (II) (XLW-II) in the treatment of epididymitis through a network pharmacology approach., Methods: We searched various databases for relevant targets associated with epididymitis and XLW-II and obtained the common targets of epididymitis and XLW-II on the Venny platform. We acquired the protein-protein interactions (PPI) using the STRING data and had them visualized with the Cytoscape software. After topological analysis, we retrieved the key targets, followed by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses using the DAVID database., Results: A total of 2 38 drug targets, 2 150 disease targets and 85 common targets were identified. The core targets for the treatment of epididymitis with XLW-II identified by PPI network analysis included TNF, IL6, IL1B, MMP9, AKT1, PTGS2 and TP53. GO function analysis revealed the involvement of the common targets in such biological processes as response to hypoxia, regulation of apoptotic processes, inflammatory response, and positive regulation of the MAPK cascade. KEGG pathway analysis suggested that the signaling pathways such as the cancer pathway, PI3K-Akt pathway, protein glycosylation pathway in cancer, Ras pathway and chemokine pathway might be related to the action mechanisms of XLW-II in the treatment of epididymitis., Conclusion: The potential targets and signaling pathways of Xiaoluowan (II) in the treatment of epididymitis were identified on the basis of network pharmacology, which has provided a novel insight into its action mechanisms and offered a new direction for further relevant studies.