Quantum-dot array with a random rough interface encapsulated by atomic layer deposition.

This Letter proposes the use of atomic layer deposition (ALD) encapsulation as a stability-improving approach for a quantum-dot micro-structural array (QDMA) with a random rough interface. The QDMA is first prepared by screen printing technology on an edge-lit light-guide plate (LGP) for backlight application. A flexible aluminum oxide film is then densely deposited onto the rough surface of the QDMA. The influences of two key factors, the reaction temperature and deposition thickness, on the encapsulation effect and output performance of this QD backlight are discussed. After ALD encapsulation, the water vapor transmission rate was measured to be less than 0.014 g/(m2 day). The average luminance of the encapsulated QD backlight remained stable after continuous working for 200 h, while an unencapsulated QD backlight lost over 50% of its initial luminance. The complete attenuation trend for the encapsulated QD backlight was analyzed in a more demanding testing environment, and results showed that 80% (>3000 cd/m2) of the initial luminance was maintained after 250 h at a high temperature of 70 °C and a relative humidity of 90%. The mechanism behind these experimental results is also discussed.

Pharmacological properties and underlying mechanisms of aurantio­obtusin (Review).

Herbal medicine has been widely applied for a range of diseases in China since antiquity. Cassia obtusifolia L. and Cassia tora L. are plants whose seeds have high reported medicinal values and have been documented to function as a laxative, to lower lipid level and to lower blood pressure. The main active ingredient in Cassia seeds is aurantio-obtusin (AO), which is an anthraquinone monomer compound. Currently, AO is listed in China as a quality control index component of Cassia seeds. In clinical practice in China, AO is typically used to treat obesity, diabetes and its complications, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and allergic reactions. In addition, AO has been reported to confer insecticidal activities and antimalarial effects. Previous studies have even suggested that AO is a potential therapeutic candidate for a variety of diseases with research value. Therefore, the present review summarizes and discuss the existing literature on AO to provide a review of its pharmacological activity and mechanism of action, with the aim of providing a basis for its development and utilization in a clinical setting.

[Relationship between nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway and susceptibility of recurrent aphthous ulcer].

PURPOSE: To explore the possible relationship between recurrent aphthous ulcer (RAU) and nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway. METHODS: A total of 124 RAU patients were recruited for this study. The control group consisted of 133 healthy subjects. Serum NFκBp50, NFκBp65, IκBα and IKK concentration were detected by ELISA.NFκB-94 ins/del ATTG sites were detected by restriction fragment length polymorphism-polymerase chain reaction (RFLP-PCR). Relative risk ratios were estimated by odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 software package. RESULTS: Serum NFκBp50, NFκBp65 and IKK levels in RAU patients were significantly lower than those of the controls (P<0.05). Serum IκBα level in RAU patients was significantly higher than those of the controls (P<0.05). Significant differences were found in the genotype frequencies or allele frequencies of NFκB-94 ins/del ATTG sites between RAU patients and controls (P<0.05). ID genotype（OR=3.073，95%CI=1.557-6.067）, DD genotype (OR=4.851，95%CI=2.264-10.393), and D allele （OR=2.079，95%CI=1.462-2.957） at NFκB-94 ins/del ATTG site exhibited high risks of RAU. CONCLUSIONS: NF kappa B signaling pathway is associated with RAU.NFκB-94 ins/del ATTG sites are associated with higher risk of RAU. NFκB-94 ins/del ATTG D allele may serve as genetic determinants for RAU.