bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Irinotecan Engineered Proniosomes: In vitro and In vivo Characterization
Authors: Goudanavar Prakash , Ramesh B. , Fattepur Santosh , Sreeharsha Nagaraja
Published: August 2021

Objective: The focus of this research has been to improve efficacy, decrease tolerance and increase the irinotecan pharmacokinetic profile.

Methods: Proniosomesformulated with various surfactants, cholesterol and dicetyl phosphate using the slurry method. A slurry process was used to prepare proniosomes with maltodextrin as the carrier by using surfactants span 20, span 60, tween 20 and tween 80.

Results: The preparations were characterized in terms of shape and specific surface area, entrapment efficacy, in vitro release studies, in vivo tissue diffusion and stability testing. The proniosome surface was found to be smoother in nature showing thin and compact layer with skim milk powder. For formulation 2 (73.94±2.8%), the maximum entrapment efficacy was found.

Conclusion: The formulation 3 obtained the desired maximum release profile within 24 hours (98.06%). The in vivo tissue distribution studies for the proniosomes reveal that the drug was preferentially targeted to liver followed by the alveolus and lymphatic system.Stability studies have indicated that the most acceptable condition for storage of the formulation 2 was 4o C. Proniosomes provide an acceptable method to the carrier for targeted therapy. These can be held at specific sites and can release the drug for a prolonged period of time.
Updates in Diagnosis and Managements of Polymyositis: Simple Review
Authors: Alanazi Laila Abdullah S. , Madshush Abdullah Mohammed A. AL , Alatawi Omniyyah Mohammed S. , Albuhairy Asmaa Hamed M. , Aljohani Jomana Khalid M. , Alfahimani Asmaa Muslim , Alotaibi Jalawi Talal A. , Alatawi Abrar Atallah O. , Ibrahim Mohammed Ibrahim F. Bin , Alrofydi Saud Mohammed S. , Altemani Marwan Fahad H.
Published: August 2021

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) includes an unusual group of acute, chronic, and subacute developed diseases of skeletal muscle characterized by moderate to severe muscle weakness and inflammation.Polymyositis is generally considered to be a prototypic T cell-mediated autoimmune myopathy, while DM was traditionally associated with a humoral-driven microangiopathy, though the putative autoantibodies and their targets have yet to be identified, and there is increasing evidence implicating the type I interferon pathway in the pathogenesis of the disease.  Women between the ages of 50 and 70 are the most typically affected. Proximal muscular weakness is the most common clinical symptom. Inflammatory arthritis, Raynaud's phenomenon, myocarditis, and interstitial lung disease are all examples of extramuscular involvement. In this review, we overview updates in diagnosis and managements of polymyositis.
Cardiac Protection Activity of Ethanol Extract of White Curcumin (Curcuma Zedoaria), Against Cyclophosphamid Induced Cardiovascular Complications in Male Rat
Authors: Amrullah Addin , Florenly . , Fachrial Edy
Published: August 2021

Objective: The common side effects associated with cyclophosphamide administration are bone marrow suppression, exposure to infections, as well as cardiovascular complications, including sinus bradycardia, pericarditis, myocarditis, and type 1 heart problems. The present study was sought to investigate the effect of curcumin on modulating side effectt of cyclophosphamide and the mechanisms involved. 

Methods: This experimental study was carried out in the Department of Pharmacology, North Sumatra University during 2020.  Thirty Wistar albino male rats, weighing 100 to 150 g (initial body weight); aged 85 to 100 days were selected for the study. After acclimatization for 14 days.  Rats (n = 30) were pretreated with catechin (200 mg/kg, p.o.) alone, normal sample and different dose combination of curcumin (200, 400, 800 mg/kg, p.o.) in 10th day. The whole rats in each groups fed on 150 mg/KgBW of cyclophosphamide solution on days 11th to 15th of the trial The heart was remove blood was taken Serum creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) level was estimated by IFCC method and Troponin T (cTnI) level by ELISA method. The blood samples were collected and complete blood count were measured by cell counter. The statistical analysis was done by one way ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc test, with coefficient interval of 95% (α = 0,05).

Results: The results revealed that the CKMB and Troponin T levels decreased along with a dosage increase in thegroup with ethanol extract of white turmeric and an improvement in homeostasis and the histopathology of the liver of the rats. The  impact of white turmeric is protective against cardiac cell damage of mice.
Comparative Efficacy of Four Fruit Extract Mouthrinses on Gingivitis in Orthodontic Patients : A Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Kharche Asmita , Kurhade Swapnil , Sarkate Priyadarshini , Khond Mugdha , Kotalwar Ganesh , Gelda Akshay
Published: August 2021

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and antimicrobial properties of four herbal mouthrinses on orthodontic patients with gingivitis

Methods and Materials: A total of 60  individuals with fixed orthodontic therapy with established gingivitis were enrolled in this study. Well Diffusion method was used to formulate mouthrinses of freshly prepared fruit extracts from Punica granatum (Pomegranate), Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry), Morinda Citrofilia L. (Noni) and Psidium guajava L. (Guava) and distilled water as control. The Plaque and Gingival Index scores were taken into consideration for assessing the effectiveness of mouthrinses against gingivitis.

Results: ANOVA test showed significant difference between the groups for PI and GI score (p<0.05). The Post Hoc analysis shows the plaque and gingival  index scores were significantly reduced in Group A ,Group B , Group C and Group D than Group E whereas no significant difference exist in the mean PI  and GI scores of Group A,B,C and D  (p>0.005).

Conclusion: All the tested mouthrinses from fruit extract  were equally effective in reducing gingivitis in individuals with fixed orthodontic theraoy suggesting that phytotherapeutic agents may be used  in the future to inhibit oral microbial growth.
Cytotoxicity of Eurycomanone and Fargesin in RAW 264.7 Murine Macrophages
Authors: Rosly Hanim Akmar , Roof Amira Nabila Mat , Ramli Salfarina , Buranasudja Visarut , Rojsitthisak Pornchai , Sritularak Boonchoo , Halim Hasseri
Published: August 2021

Bioactive natural compounds derived from plants are the source for the development of new drugs. Numerous in vitro studies have explored the anti-inflammatory effect of eurycomanone and fargesin, derived from Eurycoma longifolia and Flosmagnoliae, respectively. However, before anti-inflammatory investigation is conducted, it is important to obtain the safe doses of these compounds to ensure the validity of the anti-inflammatory results. Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity of eurycomanone and fargesin towards macrophage RAW 264.7. cells to determine the safe doses of these compounds. Different concentrations of eurycomanone and fargesin were subjected to RAW 264.7 cells. The cytotoxicity of the compounds was evaluated by MTT assay and 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of these compounds was determined. Morphological changes of RAW 264.7 cells upon exposure to these compounds were also observed. Eurycomanone exhibited its cytotoxic effect by reducing RAW 264.7 cell viability dose-dependently with the IC50 of 94.17 µM. Meanwhile, fargesin had slight cytotoxicity towards RAW 264.7 cells with the IC50 of 173.5µM. Eurycomanone was more cytotoxic towards RAW 264.7 cells compared to fargesin. In conclusion, eurycomanone and fargesin at concentration up to 25 µM, was not toxic to the RAW 264.7 murine macrophages cells and the findings can be applied in the future anti-inflammatory study.
Comparative Evaluation of Pain Related Behavior During Administration of Local Anesthesia Using the Conventional Syringe and the Computerized Controlled Local Anesthetic Device in Children Exhibiting Different Levels of Anxiety: In vivo Study
Authors: Muzumdar Pooja G. , Bendgude Vikas , Mathur Aditi
Published: August 2021

Background: Pain experienced during dental procedures evolves into negative attitude towards dentistry, which is projected as anxiety and fear of the child. Administration of local anesthesia (L.A) although an intervention to render painless procedures, in itself causes pain by its conveyance. Wand® (Milestone Scientific, Livingston, NJ, USA) is a system introduced to decrease soreness in the course of anesthetic conveyance. Owing to the sparse information comparing conventional systems with those of Wand, the present study evaluated pain related behavior in children exhibiting pre-assessed variant levels of anxiety midst administration of local anesthesia.

Aim: To correlate pain related behavior amidst delivery of local anesthesia using conventional syringe and the Wand® STA system in children exhibiting variant anxiety levels.

Methodology: The In vivo study embodied 32 children aged between 6 to 8 years. The volunteered participants were pre-categorized into low and high anxiety using the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale. They were further divided using the SNOSE technique – receiving L.A the conventional syringe (group A) and those receiving L.A using the C.C.L.A.D (group B). Pain reactions and perceptions to the two delivery methods were calculated using subjective scales and objective physiological parameters.

Results: Comparing pain perception in pre-assessed anxiety categories affirmed a remarkable difference with the use of C.C.L.A.D and appeared to bestow effortless, pain-free delivery over the traditional cartridge delivery.

Conclusion: C.C.L.A.D builds a refined acclivity for dispersal of the solution, ergo an utilitarian tool in pediatric dentistry.
Financial Knowledge and Consumer Saving Behaviors: Evidence from the USA
Authors: Chen Fuzhong , Meng Lingyun
Published: August 2021

With the increase in average life expectancy and the reform of pension and social welfare systems, saving has gradually become a preventive measure against risk and an important means of filling the financial gap. Meanwhile, a large and growing literature has examined the determinants of consumer savings. Using data from 2009, 2012, 2015, and 2018 U.S. National Financial Capability Study, this study aims to examine the association between financial knowledge and consumer saving behaviors through an ordered probit regression approach. In addition, this study conducts a comprehensive robustness test by replacing the estimation method and removing outliers with income. The results indicate that there is a positive relationship between financial knowledge and consumer savings. Therefore, policymakers are recommended to formulate policies to promote financial education to raise consumer savings.
hnRNP‐A1 binds to the IRES of MELOE‐1 antigen to promote MELOE‐1 translation in stressed melanoma cells
Authors: Charpentier Maud , Dupré Emilie , Fortun Agnès , Briand Floriane , Maillasson Mike , Com Emmanuelle , Pineau Charles , Labarrière Nathalie , Rabu Catherine , Lang François
Published: August 2021

The major challenge in antigen‐specific immunotherapy of cancer is to select the most relevant tumor antigens to target. To this aim, understanding their mode of expression by tumor cells is critical. We previously identified a melanoma‐specific antigen, melanoma‐overexpressed antigen 1 (MELOE‐1)—coded for by a long noncoding RNA—whose internal ribosomal entry sequence (IRES)‐dependent translation is restricted to tumor cells. This restricted expression is associated with the presence of a broad‐specific T‐cell repertoire that is involved in tumor immunosurveillance in melanoma patients. In the present work, we explored the translation control of MELOE‐1 and provide evidence that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP‐A1) binds to the MELOE‐1 IRES and acts as an IRES trans‐activating factor (ITAF) to promote the translation of MELOE‐1 in melanoma cells. In addition, we showed that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induced by thapsigargin, which promotes hnRNP‐A1 cytoplasmic translocation, enhances MELOE‐1 translation and recognition of melanoma cells by a MELOE‐1‐specific T‐cell clone. These findings suggest that pharmacological stimulation of stress pathways may enhance the efficacy of immunotherapies targeting stress‐induced tumor antigens such as MELOE‐1.
Survey of infill renovation for disabled elderly people to continue to stay at their homes longer
Authors: Nishino Akiko , Minami Kazunobu
Published: August 2021

This study demonstrates that infill renovation for the elderly to continue to stay at their homes longer reduces the physical and mental burden of the elderly and their caretakers. The infill renovation is expected to provide disabled elderly residents with more independence, self‐decision‐making abilities, and dignity in their everyday life. Even if the physical abilities of disabled elderly people have deteriorated, the infill renovation will promote the use of their remaining abilities to enable them to stay at their homes longer. Home environment plays an important role in enabling disabled elderly people to continue to stay at their homes even after their physical functions have started deteriorating.
Amplification of the status quo bias among physicians making medical decisions
Authors: Camilleri Adrian R. , Sah Sunita
Published: August 2021

The status quo bias (SQB) is the tendency to prefer the current state of affairs. We investigated if experts (physicians) fall prey to the SQB when making decisions in their area of expertise and, if so, whether the SQB is reduced or amplified for experts compared to non‐experts. We presented 302 physicians and 733 members of the general population with a medical scenario and two non‐medical scenarios. In each scenario, participants were asked to make a decision between two options. For half of the participants, one of the options was presented as the status quo. All groups displayed a SQB but physicians displayed an amplification of the SQB but only when making decisions in the medical scenario. Experts may be more swayed by status quo options when making decisions in their area of expertise. We discuss why the SQB may be amplified for experts and the implications for practice.
Density‐Graded Cellular Solids: Mechanics, Fabrication, and Applications
Authors: Rahman Oyindamola , Uddin Kazi Zahir , Muthulingam Jeeva , Youssef George , Shen Chen , Koohbor Behrad
Published: August 2021

Cellular solids have gained extensive popularity in different areas of engineering due to their unique physical and mechanical properties. Recent advancements in manufacturing technologies have led to the development of cellular solids with highly controllable microstructures and properties modulated for multiple functionalities at low structural weights. The concept of density gradation in cellular solids has recently gained attention due to its potentials in opening new doors to the development of lightweight structures that offer optimal physical and mechanical properties without compromising their favorable characteristics. Herein, a comprehensive insight into the fundamental concepts, fabrication, and current and potential applications of density‐graded cellular solids in various areas of science and engineering is provided. Cellular solids are broadly classified into two main categories: foams and lattice structures. An overview of the fundamental concepts in each category is presented, followed by details on the characterization approaches and some of the most novel processing techniques utilized in fabricating the structures. The uses of density‐graded structures in load‐bearing, acoustic, and biomedical applications are highlighted. The state of the art in each category and the current trends in application‐specific optimization of density‐graded structures are discussed. The review concludes with an outlook of the future directions in this exciting field.
Highly Efficient Polystyrene/Metal Oxide Fiber Composites for Passive Radiative Cooling
Authors: Jayathilaka Wanasinghe Arachchige Dumith Madushanka , Chinnappan Amutha , Ghosh Rituparna , Baskar Chinnappan , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: August 2021

Passive radiative cooling has garnered significant attention in energy‐saving applications as it is an effective way to cool to temperatures below ambient without external energy input. Successful cooling performances can be achieved by carefully selecting metal oxides with narrow absorption bands that lie entirely within the atmospheric window of 8−13 μm, thereby allowing radiative transfer between terrestrial objects and outer space. Highly scalable, metal oxide‐doped fibers made from recyclable polystyrene herein are proposed and demonstrated. The material exhibits nearly 100% reflectivity in the visible and near‐infrared (IR) range, and under direct solar irradiation, the material can cool by up to 22.3 °C below the ambient temperature without energy input due to strong emissivity in the atmospheric window. This cooling persists despite nonideal atmospheric conditions and convective/conductive heat exchange. Microsized fiber‐based radiative cooling is reported for the first time. Unlike film‐based passive radiative cooling materials, fibers are relatively simple to manufacture, flexible, lightweight, and low in cost. Therefore, such a material may be suitable for large‐scale applications such as buildings to supplement air conditioning or as a wearable fabric to promote subambient cooling for the wearer.
Bottom‐Up Synthesized Nanoporous Graphene Transistors
Authors: Mutlu Zafer , Jacobse Peter H. , McCurdy Ryan D. , Llinas Juan P. , Lin Yuxuan , Veber Gregory C. , Fischer Felix R. , Crommie Michael F. , Bokor Jeffrey
Published: August 2021

Nanoporous graphene (NPG) can exhibit a uniform electronic band gap and rationally‐engineered emergent electronic properties, promising for electronic devices such as field‐effect transistors (FETs), when synthesized with atomic precision. Bottom‐up, on‐surface synthetic approaches developed for graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) now provide the necessary atomic precision in NPG formation to access these desirable properties. However, the potential of bottom‐up synthesized NPG for electronic devices has remained largely unexplored to date. Here, FETs based on bottom‐up synthesized chevron‐type NPG (C‐NPG), consisting of ordered arrays of nanopores defined by laterally connected chevron GNRs, are demonstrated. C‐NPG FETs show excellent switching performance with on–off ratios exceeding 104, which are tightly linked to the structural quality of C‐NPG. The devices operate as p‐type transistors in the air, while n‐type transport is observed when measured under vacuum, which is associated with reversible adsorption of gases or moisture. Theoretical analysis of charge transport in C‐NPG is also performed through electronic structure and transport calculations, which reveal strong conductance anisotropy effects in C‐NPG. The present study provides important insights into the design of high‐performance graphene‐based electronic devices where ballistic conductance and conduction anisotropy are achieved, which could be used in logic applications, and ultra‐sensitive sensors for chemical or biological detection.
Ion Pair Uptake in Ion Gel Devices Based on Organic Mixed Ionic–Electronic Conductors
Authors: Quill Tyler J. , LeCroy Garrett , Melianas Armantas , Rawlings Dakota , Thiburce Quentin , Sheelamanthula Rajendar , Cheng Christina , Tuchman Yaakov , Keene Scott T. , McCulloch Iain , Segalman Rachel A. , Chabinyc Michael L. , Salleo Alberto
Published: August 2021

In organic mixed ionic–electronic conductors (OMIECs), it is critical to understand the motion of ions in the electrolyte and OMIEC. Generally, the focus is on the movement of net charge during gating, and the motion of neutral anion–cation pairs is seldom considered. Uptake of mobile ion pairs by the semiconductor before electrochemical gating (passive uptake) can be advantageous as this can improve device speed, and both ions can participate in charge compensation during gating. Here, such passive ion pair uptake in high‐speed solid‐state devices is demonstrated using an ion gel electrolyte. This is compared to a polymerized ionic liquid (PIL) electrolyte to understand how ion pair uptake affects device characteristics. Using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the passive uptake of ion pairs from the ion gel into the OMIEC is detected, whereas no uptake is observed with a PIL electrolyte. This is corroborated by X‐ray scattering, which reveals morphological changes to the OMIEC from the uptake of ion pairs. With in situ Raman, a reorganization of both anions and cations is then observed during gating. Finally, the speed and retention of OMIEC‐based neuromorphic devices are tuned by controlling the freedom of charge motion in the electrolyte.
Mixed‐Dimensional Van der Waals Heterostructures Enabled Optoelectronic Synaptic Devices for Neuromorphic Applications
Authors: Sun Yilin , Ding Yingtao , Xie Dan
Published: August 2021

Neuromorphic devices provide a hardware platform to implement synaptic functions into artificial electronic devices, which opens a new way to overcome the von Neumann bottleneck from the device level. Optoelectronic synaptic devices are expected to break the limitations of electrically stimulated synapses due to wider bandwidth, higher speed, and lower crosstalk. However, most optoelectronic synaptic devices are enabled by the defect‐dominant photo‐generated carrier trapping/de‐trapping. Therefore, designable device structure and controllable synaptic functions are urgently desirable in optoelectronic synaptic devices. Among various functional materials, low‐dimensional materials exhibit excellent optical and electrical properties and can be easily applied to build van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures with ideal surface characteristics. Herein, the basic morphology and characteristics of low‐dimensional materials have been introduced and the typical constitution of mixed‐dimensional (MD) vdW heterostructures has been reviewed to highlight their unique light‐matter interaction. Then, optoelectronic synaptic devices are classified into three categories by the role of light as input, modulated and output signals based on different photoelectric conversion mechanisms. Furthermore, a bridge between neuromorphic devices and practical applications is established to illustrate their potential in neuromorphic systems. Finally, great challenges and possible study directions are presented to guide the development of MD vdW heterostructures in future neuromorphic systems.
Moisture‐Induced Reversible Phase Conversion of Cesium Copper Iodine Nanocrystals Enables Advanced Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Zhang Fei , Liang Wenqing , Wang Lintao , Ma Zhuangzhuang , Ji Xinzhen , Wang Meng , Wang Yue , Chen Xu , Wu Di , Li Xinjian , Zhang Yu , Shan Chongxin , Shi Zhifeng
Published: August 2021

Hydrochromic materials have attracted widespread attention in the fields of anti‐counterfeiting because of their ability of the reversible light absorption and/or emission properties in response to water. Here, for the first it is demonstrated that the ternary copper halides Cs3Cu2I5 nanocrystals (NCs) possess excellent hydrochromic properties. The prepared Cs3Cu2I5 NCs films can dynamically extract and insert CsI by exposing/removing water to realize the reversible conversion between blue‐emissive Cs3Cu2I5 and yellow‐emissive CsCu2I3. Interestingly, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) coated Cs3Cu2I5 can effectively avoid the extraction of CsI and maintain long‐term stability in the water. Further, the hydrochromic Cs3Cu2I5 and water‐resistant Cs3Cu2I5@PMMA are used as the inks to synergistically act on anti‐counterfeiting information to achieve multiple encryption effects, which can clearly identify and authenticate the effective information after moisture decryption. Importantly, the pattern can be re‐encrypted to the invalid pattern after water evaporation. In addition, the anti‐counterfeiting pattern has excellent stability during repeated encryption/decryption conversion cycles, which can not only balance the accessibility of anti‐counterfeiting information but also effectively improve the security of information. This new discovery may not only deepen the understanding of Cs3Cu2I5 but also provide new options for the design of hydrochromic materials for anti‐counterfeiting information.
Recent Advances in Aggregation‐Induced Emission Materials and Their Biomedical and Healthcare Applications
Authors: He Wei , Zhang Tianfu , Bai Haotian , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2021

The emergence of the concept of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) has opened new opportunities in many research areas, such as biopsy analysis, biological processes monitoring, and elucidation of key physiological and pathological behaviors. As a new class of luminescent materials, AIE luminogens (AIEgens) possess many prominent advantages such as tunable molecular structures, high molar absorptivity, high brightness, large Stokes shift, excellent photostability, and good biocompatibility. The past two decades have witnessed a dramatic growth of research interest in AIE, and many AIE‐based bioprobes with excellent performance have been widely explored in biomedical fields. This review summarizes some of the latest advancements of AIE molecular probes and AIE nanoparticles (NPs) with regards to biomedical and healthcare applications. According to the research areas, the review is divided into five sections, which are imaging and identification of cells and bacteria, photodynamic therapy, multimodal theranostics, deep tissue imaging, and fluorescence‐guided surgery. The challenges and future opportunities of AIE materials in the advanced biomedical fields are briefly discussed. In perspective, the AIE‐based bioprobes play vital roles in the exploration of advanced bioapplications for the ultimate goal of addressing more healthcare issues by integrating various cutting‐edge modalities and techniques.
Aggregation‐Induced Emission Materials that Aid in Pharmaceutical Research
Authors: Wang Bingnan , Liu Shanshan , Liu Xiaolin , Hu Rong , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2021

The in situ visualization of drugs can improve the understanding of their pharmacokinetics and mechanisms. Aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) materials, which can aid in the visualization of drugs, are gradually being employed in pharmaceutical research due to their excellent fluorescence properties, good biocompatibility, and extremely high sensitivity. Herein, the progress of AIE materials in pharmaceutical research, including AIE carriers for drug delivery, AIE multifunctional prodrugs, and AIE compounds as bioactive reagents for theranostics is briefly described. Moreover, the opportunities and challenges of AIE materials in pharmaceutical research are discussed in depth. It is believed that versatile AIE materials hold great promise for the promotion of pharmacological research and can facilitate significant advancements in clinical fields.
Time–Temperature Integrating Optical Sensors Based on Gradient Colloidal Crystals
Authors: Schöttle Marius , Tran Thomas , Feller Tanja , Retsch Markus
Published: August 2021

Manipulation‐free and autonomous recording of temperature states for extended periods of time is of increasing importance for food spoilage and battery safety assessment. An optical readout is preferred for low‐tech visual inspection. Here, a concept for time–temperature integrators based on colloidal crystals is introduced. Two unique features in this class of advanced materials are combined: 1) the film‐formation kinetics can be controlled by orders of magnitude based on mixtures of particles with distinct glass transition temperatures. 2) A gradual variation of the particle mixture along a linear gradient of the colloidal crystal enables local readout. Tailor‐made latex particles of identical size but different glass transition temperatures provide a homogenous photonic stopband. The disappearance of this opalescence is directly related to the local particle ratio and the exposure to a time and temperature combination. This sensing material can be adjusted to report extended intermediate and short excessive temperature events, which makes it specifically suitable for long‐term tracing and threshold applications.
Electrochemistry‐Induced Improvements of Mechanical Strength, Self‐Healing, and Interfacial Adhesion of Hydrogels
Authors: Miao Yan , Xu Mengda , Zhang Lidong
Published: August 2021

Hydrogels have demonstrated great potential in biomedical and engineering areas. To improve the physical performance, development of efficient physical/chemical protocols is essential. Herein, an electrochemistry functionalization strategy that is capable of enabling the functional improvements of hydrogel is reported. The electrochemistry functionalization is demonstrated on a hydrogel model of polyacrylamide (PAAm)@κ‐carrageenan. The electrochemistry reaction generates metal ions (Fe3+) that migrate and coordinate with the sulfate groups of κ‐carrageenan resulting in the prominent function improvements. In comparison with untreated PAAm@κ‐carrageenan hydrogel, it can improve the mechanical strength by 7.37 times, and can increase the interfacial adhesion energy of the hydrogel on a glass surface from 0 to 1400 J m−2, stronger than the bonding strength of tendons (adhesion energy: ≈800 J m−2). Two pieces of hydrogel strips integrate into an intact structure by the electrochemistry functionalization, where the healing efficiency reaches 100% in comparison to the untreated hydrogel. The most significant development is that it enables functional patterning on the hydrogel by the electrode assembly, which provides the hydrogel with modular sensitivity to external pressure. Therefore, it can be a general protocol for rapid generation of multifunctional hydrogels for biomedical and engineering developments.
Reversible Dendritic‐Crystal‐Reinforced Polymer Gel for Bioinspired Adaptable Adhesive
Authors: Xi Songyan , Tian Feng , Wei Gumi , He Xian , Shang Yinghui , Ju Ye , Li Wenjun , Lu Qinghua , Wang Qigang
Published: August 2021

High‐strength and reversible adhesion technology, which is a universal phenomenon in nature but remains challenging for artificial synthesis, is essential for the development of modern science. Existing adhesive designs without interface versatility hinder their application to arbitrary surfaces. Bioinspired by creeper suckers, a crystal‐fiber reinforced polymer gel adhesive with ultrastrong adhesion strength and universal interface adaptability is creatively prepared via introducing a room‐temperature crystallizable solvent into the polymer network. The gel adhesive formed by hydrogen bonding interaction between crystal fibers and polymer network can successfully realize over 9.82 MPa reversible adhesion strength for rough interface and 406.87 J m−2 peeling toughness for skin tissue. In situ anchoring is achieved for adapting to different geometrical surfaces. The adhesion performance can be significantly improved with the further increase of the interfacial roughness and hydrophilicity, whose dissipation mechanism is simulated by finite element analysis. The melting–crystallization equilibrium of the crystal fibers is proved by synchrotron radiation scattering. Accordingly, reversible phase‐transition triggered by light and heat can realize the controlled adhere–detach recycle. Later adjustments to the monomers or crystals are expected to broaden its applications to various fields such as bioelectronics, electronic processing, and machine handling.
Sweet Electronics: Honey‐Gated Complementary Organic Transistors and Circuits Operating in Air
Authors: Sharova Alina S. , Caironi Mario
Published: August 2021

Sustainable harnessing of natural resources is key moving toward a new‐generation electronics, which features a unique combination of electronic functionality, low cost, and absence of environmental and health hazards. Within this framework, edible electronics, of which transistors and circuits are a fundamental component, is an emerging field, exploiting edible materials that can be safely ingested, and subsequently digested after performing their function. Dielectrics are a critical functional element of transistors, often constituting their major volume. Yet, to date, there are only scarce examples of electrolytic food‐based materials able to provide low‐voltage operation of transistors at ambient conditions. In this context, a cost‐effective and edible substance, honey, is proposed to be used as an electrolytic gate viscous dielectric in electrolyte‐gated organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs). Both n‐ and p‐type honey‐gated OFETs (HGOFETs) are demonstrated, with distinctive features such as low voltage (<1 V) operation, long‐term shelf life and operation stability in air, and compatibility with large‐area fabrication processes, such as inkjet printing on edible tattoo‐paper. Such complementary devices enable robust honey‐based integrated logic circuits, here exemplified by inverting logic gates and ring oscillators. A marked device responsivity to humidity provides promising opportunities for sensing applications, specifically, for moisture control of dried or dehydrated food.
Mechanical Performance of Binary and Ternary Hybrid MXene/Nanocellulose Hydro‐ and Aerogels – A Critical Review
Authors: Quero Franck , Rosenkranz Andreas
Published: August 2021

2D MXene nano‐sheets and several forms of nanocellulose have been reported as building blocks for producing hydro‐ and aerogels. “MXene‐only” or “nanocellulose‐only” hydro‐ and aerogels, however, demonstrated deficient mechanical performance, including brittleness and low mechanical strength. These shortcomings limit their use for a wider range of applications, especially when high‐performance compressive mechanical properties are needed. This mini‐review aims at summarizing the current state‐of‐the art regarding the compressive mechanical properties of binary and ternary hybrid MXene/nanocellulose hydro‐ and aerogels. We also emphasize on the potential as well as future theoretical and experimental research directions of MXene/nanocellulose hydro‐ and aerogels and how their compressive mechanical properties could be further enhanced in the near future.
Direct Laser Writing of Graphene‐Based Electrical Interconnects for Printed Circuit Board Repair
Authors: Lim Chin Huat Joel , Suchand Sandeep C. S. , Murukeshan Vadakke Matham , Kim Young‐Jin
Published: August 2021

Malfunctions in printed circuit boards (PCBs) are often caused by damaged copper traces. Printing materials such as metal nanoparticles, conductive polymers, and graphene along with novel printing methods are being actively explored for repairing the conductive connections in PCBs. Because of its high‐resolution capability, direct writing of conductive traces gets significant attention, especially with the widespread use of flexible PCBs. Graphene is an ideal material for such applications due to its excellent electrical and mechanical properties. However, there have been limited reports on graphene‐based methods for the facile fabrication of conductive traces. A novel method of femtosecond laser direct writing of graphene traces by the photoreduction of graphene oxide (GO) to conductive reduced GO (rGO) for repair and modification of legacy PCBs is reported. A trace‐width resolution of 28.4 μm is achieved over a large patterning area of 100 mm × 100 mm. The rGO thickness is found to be tunable from 0.6 to 4.4 μm, while the sheet resistance is minimized to 100 Ω sq−1. The system capability is demonstrated by printing conductive traces on top of a flexible substrate to form a closed path for turning on a light‐emitting diode, as well as, by repairing a commercial PCB.
Ultrathin, Ultralight, and Anisotropic Ordered Reduced Graphene Oxide Fiber Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Membrane
Authors: Xu Lu , Lu Haohao , Zhou Yue , Chi Zhangyi , Li Zhao , Md Zahidul Islam , Dong Yubing , Fu Yaqin , Zhu Yaofeng , Ni Qingqing
Published: August 2021

Developing an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding material with lightweight, ultrathin, and high‐performance complex electromagnetic wave pollution has become a research trend. Here, a novel ultrathin ordered reduced graphene oxide fiber (oRGOF) membranes are reported with wrinkles, grooves, and hierarchical structure by a simple assembly process based on wet spinning. The results show that the oRGOF membranes have obvious anisotropic conductivity and directional electromagnetic shielding properties. The measured electrical conductivity along the fiber axial direction (0°) is higher than that along the fiber radial direction (90°). Furthermore, the EMI shielding performance difference under different rotation angles is more than 25 dB (31.0 dB at 0°, 4.9 dB at 90°). The thickness of the resultant oRGOF membrane is 0.03 mm and area density of 0.9 mg cm−2, and the specific EMI SE (SSE/t) is 33333 dB cm2 g−1 along the fiber axis. The oRGOF membranes show flexible and durable performance under repeated bending and straightening cycles tests over 160 times, without significant reduction of the shielding performance. Thus, the ultrathin, ultralight, and anisotropic oRGOF electromagnetic interference shielding membrane have broad prospects for both civilian and military applications.
Spin‐Polarized Electrons Impact on Terahertz Emission by High‐Order Shift Current in CsPbBr3
Authors: He Yuhang , Su Rui , Huang Yuanyuan , Zhao Qiyi , Zhou Yixuan , Khurgin Jacob B. , Xiong Qihua , Xu Xinlong
Published: August 2021

Ability to generate and manipulate spin‐polarized electrons is the cornerstone of prospective energy‐efficient spin‐based information processing technologies. Here, we report a novel method of generating transient spin‐polarized electrons by two‐photon absorption (TPA) in all‐inorganic perovskite CsPbBr3 using circularly polarized light (CPL) excitation. The photo‐generated transient spin‐polarized current serves as a source for terahertz emission detected in our experiment that shows quadratic pump fluence dependence, consistent with our previous report under linear polarized light excitation. Density functional calculations confirm the experimental results and pinpoint the role of the spin−orbit coupling in enabling TPA of CPL in CsPbBr3. In addition, the maximum degree of spin‐polarization under excitation by the CPL is ~21.3% at room temperature and can be tuned by the polarization of the excitation light with a quarter wave plate. The technique developed in this work can be applied to the analysis of spin‐related properties of materials, making it an important analytical tool for the exploration of future spintronic technology based on inorganic perovskites.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Amination of Aryl Nitriles for Accessing Diarylamines through C−CN Bond Activation
Authors: Wu Ke , Rong Qiang , Sun Nan , Hu Baoxiang , Shen Zhenlu , Jin Liqun , Hu Xinquan
Published: August 2021

A nickel‐catalyzed amination to access diarylamines has been developed through C−CN bond activation of aryl nitriles with anilines. In this developed catalytic protocol, various aromatic and heteroaromatic nitriles could be utilized as the electrophiles to couple with substituted anilines. A diversity of diarylamines were obtained in 15–95% yields.

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Synthesis of Terminal N‐Vinylazoles from Aromatic Aldehydes, DMSO, and Azoles Based DMSO as Terminal Carbon Synthon
Authors: Nie Zhiwen , Lv Huifang , Li Hui , Su Miaodong , Yang Tonglin , Luo Weiping , Liu Qiang , Guo Cancheng
Published: August 2021

A protocol for the synthesis of terminal N‐vinylazoles from aromatic aldehydes, DMSO, and azoles has been reported. In this strategy, DMSO was involved in the construction of the C=C bond as a terminal carbon synthon. Both aromatic aldehydes and azoles could be well tolerated and give the corresponding terminal N‐vinylazoles in 52–91% yields. Based on preliminary experiments, a plausible mechanism is proposed.

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Regulating Deposition Behavior of Sodium Ions for Dendrite‐Free Sodium‐Metal Anode
Authors: Liu Pei , Yi Haotian , Zheng Siyu , Li Zhaopeng , Zhu Kunjie , Sun Zhiqin , Jin Ting , Jiao Lifang
Published: August 2021

Constructing dendrite‐free sodium metal anodes with admirable electrochemical performance and long cycle‐life is crucial for the practical application of sodium‐metal batteries (SMBs). One of the feasible methods is to design 3D skeletons with sodiophilicity. Herein, the density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that the co‐existence of O and N functional groups on a carbon matrix can imbue strong sodiophilicity, and can regulate the Na deposition behavior to planar extension. Under the guidance of DFT calculation results, robust 3D carbon nanofibers are fabricated with sodiophilic O and N functional groups, which simultaneously facilitates homogeneous Na+ distribution and a dendrite‐free construction. The stabilized sodium metal anode achieves an ultra‐long cycle life of 1600 h at 1 mA cm−2 and an overpotential of merely ≈22 mV at 4 mA cm−2 in Na||Na symmetric batteries. Furthermore, superior electrochemical properties are demonstrated in both Na‐O2 cell and a full sodium ion cell using Na3V2(PO4)3 as a cathode, laying the foundation for the next generation high‐performance SMBs.
Multiphase, Multiscale Chemomechanics at Extreme Low Temperatures: Battery Electrodes for Operation in a Wide Temperature Range
Authors: Li Jizhou , Li Shaofeng , Zhang Yuxin , Yang Yang , Russi Silvia , Qian Guannan , Mu Linqin , Lee Sang‐Jun , Yang Zhijie , Lee Jun‐Sik , Pianetta Piero , Qiu Jieshan , Ratner Daniel , Cloetens Peter , Zhao Kejie , Lin Feng , Liu Yijin
Published: August 2021

Understanding the behavior of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) under extreme conditions, for example, low temperature, is key to broad adoption of LIBs in various application scenarios. LIBs, poor performance at low temperatures is often attributed to the inferior lithium‐ion transport in the electrolyte, which has motivated new electrolyte development as well as the battery preheating approach that is popular in electric vehicles. A significant irrevocable capacity loss, however, is not resolved by these measures nor well understood. Herein, multiphase, multiscale chemomechanical behaviors in composite LiNixMnyCozO2 (NMC, x + y + z = 1) cathodes at extremely low temperatures are systematically elucidated. The low‐temperature storage of LIBs can result in irreversible structural damage in active electrodes, which can negatively impact the subsequent battery cycling performance at ambient temperature. Beside developing electrolytes that have stable performance, designing batteries for use in a wide temperature range also calls for the development of electrode components that are structurally and morphologically robust when the cell is switched between different temperatures.
Cover cropping and conservation tillage improve soil health in the southeastern United States
Authors: Farmaha Bhupinder S. , Sekaran Udayakumar , Franzluebbers Alan J.
Published: August 2021

Conservation agricultural systems have a long history of development and use in the southeastern United States, but they are still not the norm on the landscape. Literature from the region suggests that a diversity of soil properties can be improved with cover cropping and conservation tillage, but results are not always consistent. Our objectives were to (a) review recent research on conservation tillage and cover cropping in the region and (b) compile and synthesize recent data from a diversity of farms along a conventional to conservation gradient. As part of recent on‐farm trials focused on soil N availability, we analyzed soil organic C and N fractions and routine soil nutrient characteristics from a total of 196 fields in corn (Zea mays L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) production in three physiographic regions of the Coastal Plain (n = 71 fields), Piedmont (n = 77 fields), and Appalachians (n = 48 fields) in North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. These data allowed us to establish first estimates of threshold optima for soil organic C and N fractions and other inorganic nutrients. On‐farm data confirmed the literature review that conservation tillage resulted in greater stratification of soil organic C and N and nutrient concentrations. Soil health improvement could be inferred along the gradient from inversion tillage to no tillage without cover cropping to no tillage with cover cropping. This collection of recent literature and on‐farm data can be a useful starting point for establishing target limits and assessing soil health conditions on farms in the region.
The formation and growth model of a CO2 hydrate layer based on molecular dynamics
Authors: Honda Kota , Fujikawa Rintaro , Ma Xiao , Yamamoto Norifumi , Fujiwara Kota , Kaneko Akiko , Abe Yutaka
Published: August 2021

CO2 hydrates are ice‐like substances in which CO2 molecules are encapsulated in water and are known to reduce the rate at which CO2 dissolves in water. It is believed that the thickness of the hydrate film is dominant in the dissolution rate. In this study, we have developed a model that takes into account two factors: the permeation of H2O molecules and the change in film thickness. First, mass transfer coefficients were measured from dissolution experiments of CO2 hydrate, and it was found that existing empirical equations could predict the mass transfer coefficients near the hydrate. Next, molecular dynamics simulations were carried out to determine the self‐diffusion coefficients between CO2. In these calculations, intercage hopping and intracage migration of the molecules were identified based on their migration distances. These results indicate that the kinetic model proposed in this study can reproduce the CO2 hydrate film thickness well.
Surface Texture Recognition by Deep Learning‐Enhanced Tactile Sensing
Authors: Yan Youcan , Hu Zhe , Shen Yajing , Pan Jia
Published: August 2021

Tactile perception is a primary sensing channel for both humans and robots to be conscious of the surface properties of an object. Due to the unique functionalities of mechanoreceptors in human skin, humans can easily distinguish materials with different surface characteristics (e.g., compressibility, roughness, etc.) by simply pressing and sliding the fingertip over the samples. However, how to achieve such delicate texture recognition for robots remains an open challenge due to the lack of skin‐comparable tactile sensing systems and smart pattern recognition algorithms. Herein, a novel texture recognition method is proposed by designing an arc‐shaped soft tactile sensor and a bidirectional long short‐term memory (LSTM) model with the attention mechanism. By using the proposed method, a respective recognition accuracy of 97% for Braille characters and 99% for 60 types of fabrics have been achieved, revealing the effectiveness of our method in surface texture recognition and the potential benefit to various applications, such as Braille reading for visually impaired people and defect detection in the textile industry.