Search

Ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE) coating was applied to the surface of carbon steel through electrostatic spraying and low-temperature heat treatment. The morphology and structure of the coating were analyzed using various characterization techniques. The electrochemical data of the coated steel soaked in 3.5% (mass fraction) NaCl solution for 90 d at different periods were also examined. The findings indicate that the outer surface of the coating remains structurally stable before and after soaking. F can diffuse into the steel substrate, facilitating the bonding between the coating and the steel substrate, but the free F also induces a weakening effect on the crystalline structure. Due to the thickness of the coating edge and the susceptibility to infiltration of the corrosive medium, under-film micro-zone corrosion occurs at a slow rate. After soaking for 90 d, the impedance modulus measures approximately 104Ω·cm2, and the open circuit potential (OCP) is −0.61 V. The self-corrosion current density is 1.13×10−6A/cm2, resulting in a calculated coating protection rate of 99.29%. In summary, despite edge corrosion occurring, the ECTFE coating provides excellent corrosion protection.

Multimodal volumetric segmentation and fusion are two valuable techniques for surgical treatment planning, image-guided interventions, tumor growth detection, radiotherapy map generation, etc. In recent years, deep learning has demonstrated its excellent capability in both of the above tasks, while these methods inevitably face bottlenecks. On the one hand, recent segmentation studies, especially the U-Net-style series, have reached the performance ceiling in segmentation tasks. On the other hand, it is almost impossible to capture the ground truth of the fusion in multimodal imaging, due to differences in physical principles among imaging modalities. Hence, most of the existing studies in the field of multimodal medical image fusion, which fuse only two modalities at a time with hand-crafted proportions, are subjective and task-specific. To address the above concerns, this work proposes an integration of multimodal segmentation and fusion, namely SegCoFusion, which consists of a novel feature frequency dividing network named FDNet and a segmentation part using a dual-single path feature supplementing strategy to optimize the segmentation inputs and suture with the fusion part. Furthermore, focusing on multimodal brain tumor volumetric fusion and segmentation, the qualitative and quantitative results demonstrate that SegCoFusion can break the ceiling both of segmentation and fusion methods. Moreover, the effectiveness of the proposed framework is also revealed by comparing it with state-of-the-art fusion methods on 2D two-modality fusion tasks, our method achieves better fusion performance than others. Therefore, the proposed SegCoFusion develops a novel perspective that improves the performance in volumetric fusion by cooperating with segmentation and enhances lesion awareness.

This study investigated the carbonaluminate cementitious materials (i.e., sodium aluminate (NaAlO2)-activated limestone pastes) with gradient calcite (CaCO3)/NaAlO2molar ratios ranging from 1:1 to 6:1 (samples M1 to M6). NaAlO2dosage affected the reaction process, hydration product, and cementitious property of the formed pastes. The thermonatrite (Na2CO3·H2O) and AH3phase as hydration products exist in all the samples. Microcrystalline AH3phase (crystallite size is near 22 nm) held a superior cementitious property, which was evidenced by diffraction spots scattered on concentric rings in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results. Other hydrates varied with the CaCO3/NaAlO2ratio. In case of lower CaCO3/NaAlO2ratio (i.e., M1), NaAlO2was incompletely consumed. The residual NaAlO2promoted the formation of cubic-shaped katoite (3CaO·Al2O3·6H2O). Such hydrate barely contributed to the cementitious property of the formed matrix. When the CaCO3/NaAlO2ratio reached 1.5:1 (e.g., M1.5-M6), NaAlO2was entirely consumed, and monocarboaluminate (Mc, 3CaO·Al2O3·CaCO3·11H2O) instead of katoite was preferentially generated. The amounts of total hydrates decreased with the increasing CaCO3/NaAlO2ratio, leading to the degraded properties of formed matrix. Thus, the 28-day compressive strength of M1.5 was the highest among these samples, reaching 35.55 MPa.

Molybdenum tailings (MT) are solid waste from molybdenum ore beneficiation, which can cause environmental pollution when stored in tailings ponds for a long time. The use of alkaline hydrothermal activation to improve the low reactivity of MT as an active precursor to one-part geopolymers is a novel way to resource MT. This paper evaluates the feasibility of alkaline hydrothermal activation of MT and investigates the mechanical properties of the activated MT base polymer prepared by a one-part method. The results showed that alkaline hydrothermal activation greatly promoted the dissolution of silicon in MT, weakened the crystal properties of quartz phase in MT and destroyed the original structure of MT. The amorphous sodium aluminosilicate on the surface of activated MT dissolves in water and provides an alkaline environment for the geological polymerization reaction. Combined with the analytical results of XRD and FTIR, the alkaline hydrothermal activation of MT was controlled by the optimal sodium hydroxide solution concentration, activation temperature and activation time of 5 M NaOH, 200 °C and 4 h, respectively. Based on this, the one-part geopolymer was prepared directly by adding water to activated MT 5-4-200 and slag, and the compressive strength can be improved. SEM and EDS results show that alkaline hydrothermal activation treatment renders inert MT reactive and the reaction product of activated MT and slag forming a one-part geopolymer is an amorphous C(N)A-S-H gel.

The reaction mechanism of the pozzolanic reaction of metakaolin (MK) from the atomic point of view has not yet been explored. To explain the process and mechanism of the pozzolanic reaction from the atomic point of view, molecular insight into the pozzolanic reaction of MK and calcium hydroxide (CH) was analyzed through the reaction molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The results show that the pozzolanic reaction of MK and CH can be essentially regarded as the CH decomposition and penetration into MK. Also, the structure evolution after the pozzolanic reaction shows that the water molecules cannot penetrate the MK structure till the participation of Ca2+and OH–ions of CH. The Ca2+and OH–ions have strong interaction with MK and drill into the MK structure, followed by the destruction of a part of the MK structure and water penetration. The final structure of CH removed by MK can be regarded as the precursor of the CASH gel structure.

The use of cement-based conductive mortar is an effective way to enhance the long-term operation of impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) system. However, its widespread use is limited by the challenges of dispersing nano-fillers and the associated cost. To overcome these challenges, this study proposes the use of expanded graphite (EG) as a conductive material due to its strong conductivity, easy dispersion, and low cost. Additionally, multilayer EG flakes can promote cement hydration due to their high specific surface area, thereby improving the mechanical properties of mortar. This study examines the effects of EG content on the mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of the conductive mortar. Results reveal an exponential relation between EG content and mechanical strength, with 1.5% EG content producing the maximum mechanical properties. The resistivity of EG cement mortar decreases as the EG content increases, reaching its minimum at the percolation threshold. At this threshold, the resistivity of conductive mortar is 46.4% of the optimal content for mechanical properties (EG content is 1.5%). The incorporation of EG in cement-based conductive mortar is a viable alternative to traditional materials that can improve both conductivity and mechanical properties. This approach has great potential for enhancing the performance of ICCP systems.

A novel type of solid waste based artificial aggregate which holds promise for a good synergy between mechanical properties and self-healing capacity is designed with using the core-shell structure concept. The artificial aggregate is designed with a high self-healing potential core and a high strength shell, to achieve the high-performance application of artificial aggregates in concrete. The basic properties and potential self-healing capacity of artificial aggregates were comprehensively analyzed. The results indicated that the artificial aggregates were eligible considering the 28-d single particle compressive strength of exceeding 5.0 MPa, low water absorption and high volumetric stability. The crack-healing ratio of artificial aggregate is up to 94.5 % after 7-d curing in the simulated concrete pore solution (i.e., saturated Ca(OH)2solution). The primary self-healing product was detected as calcium-aluminate-silicate-hydrate (C-A-S-H) gel due to the secondary hydration reactions of core materials.

The ocean harbors immense energy with the potential to benefit humanity through judicious utilization, yet concurrently poses threats to marine structures. Traditional approaches have focused on harnessing wave energy or protecting against wave scouring damage individually, often overlooking the dialectical treatment of wave energy. This study introduces a novel concept, aiming to convert wave scouring damage into opportunities for advancing marine structure protection technology through the development of a wave-energy harvesting protective layer. This groundbreaking protective layer integrates an X-shaped triboelectric nanogenerator (X-TENG) with a surface protection coating, effectively buffering wave forces, and converting wave energy into electric energy based on its fundamental role in preventing ion diffusion. Furthermore, the protective layer energizes a cathodic protection system for rebar protection, thereby, providing double-effect protection for marine reinforced concrete through anticorrosion and wave force buffering. Our investigation systematically explores the performance of the X-TENG-based multifunctional protective layer, revealing highly promising results. This breakthrough solution has the potential to revolutionize marine structure protection, offering a sustainable and reliable approach to enhance the operational stability and service life of marine equipment.

This study investigated effects of crystalline admixture (CA) on shrinkage and alkali-silica reaction behaviours of biochar-cementitious composites. Addition of 1–1.5 wt% superabsorbent polymer (SAP) completely mitigated autogenous shrinkage while slightly increasing the 120-day total shrinkage of the SP-cement composite by 5.7%, resulting in the highest apparent porosity. 1–1.5 wt% CA addition did not affect autogenous shrinkage while slightly reducing the 120-day total shrinkage by 10.1%. The combination of CA and waste wood biochar (WWB) reduced autogenous shrinkage by 24.23% and 120-day total shrinkage by 23.6%, resulting in the lowest apparent porosity. The formation of hydration products in the WWB pores and on WWB surface densified the cementitious matrix, leading to a reduction in water evaporation. Furthermore, for specimens exposed to 1 M NaOH solution at 80 °C, CA addition significantly reduced the 120-day expansion by 50.6%, while the combination of CA and WWB addition reduced the 120-day expansion by 42.9%.

Braille recognition is of great significance for the visually impaired and blind people to achieve convenient communication and learning. A self-powered Braille recognition sensing system with long-term survivability and phonic function could provide those people with greatly enhanced access to information and thus improve their living quality. Herein, we develop a skin-like self-powered Braille recognition sensor with self-healing, temperature-resistant and stretchable properties, which is further connected with the designed audio system to realize real-time conversion from mechanical stimulus to electrical signals and then to audio signals. The sensor is fabricated using dynamic interaction-based self-healing materials, which constitute an imine bond-based cross-linked polymer for the triboelectric layer and a hydrogen bond-based organohydrogel for the electrode layer. Moreover, the conductive organohydrogel-based electrode is provided with stretchable, anti-freezing, and non-drying properties. Consequently, minimized impact on the output performance of the sensor is found under mechanical impact, harsh environments and large deformation, enabling a long lifespan, high durability, and good stability. The self-powered sensor can be applied in a Braille recognition system, in which the Braille characters can be further decoded and read out. This work shows a reliable and flexible device with promising prospects in information technology.

Gene therapy has shown great potential in the treatment of many diseases by downregulating the expression of certain genes. The development of gene vectors as a vehicle for gene therapy has greatly facilitated the widespread clinical application of nucleic acid materials (DNA, mRNA, siRNA, and miRNA). Currently, both viral and non-viral vectors are used as delivery systems of nucleic acid materials for gene therapy. However, viral vector-based gene therapy has several limitations, including immunogenicity and carcinogenesis caused by the exogenous viral vectors. To address these issues, non-viral nanocarrier-based gene therapy has been explored for superior performance with enhanced gene stability, high treatment efficiency, improved tumor-targeting, and better biocompatibility. In this review, we discuss various non-viral vector-mediated gene therapy approaches using multifunctional biodegradable or non-biodegradable nanocarriers, including polymer-based nanoparticles, lipid-based nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), quantum dots (QDs), silica nanoparticles, metal-based nanoparticles and two-dimensional nanocarriers. Various strategies to construct non-viral nanocarriers based on their delivery efficiency of targeted genes will be introduced. Subsequently, we discuss the cellular uptake pathways of non-viral nanocarriers. In addition, multifunctional gene therapy based on non-viral nanocarriers is summarized, in which the gene therapy can be combined with other treatments, such as photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), immunotherapy and chemotherapy. We also provide a comprehensive discussion of the biological toxicity and safety of non-viral vector-based gene therapy. Finally, the present limitations and challenges of non-viral nanocarriers for gene therapy in future clinical research are discussed, to promote wider clinical applications of non-viral vector-based gene therapy.

Photodynamic efficiency is strongly dependent on the generation rate of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the tissue penetration depth. Recent advances in materials science reveal that organic molecules with room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) can potentially serve as efficient photosensitizers owing to their limited dark cytotoxicity and abundant triplet excitons upon light irradiation. In this study, we combine RTP materials with two-photon excitation to improve the ROS generation, therapeutic precision, and tissue penetration of photodynamic therapy. We successfully prepared a novel RTP-based photosensitizer (BF2DCz) with a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 47.7 ± 3% and a remarkable intersystem crossing efficiency of ∼90.3%. By encapsulation into the bovine serum albumin (BSA) matrix, BF2DCz-BSA exhibits excellent biocompatibility, negligible dark toxicity, and superior photostability. Excitation using a femtosecond laser causes BF2DCz-BSA to efficiently generate ROS and precisely exert cell damage at the desired location.

Due to a loose and porous structure, the addition of sintered sludge ash (SSA) in large amounts often leads to a decrease in durability. To address the issue, a systematic investigation is conducted into the combined effects of seawater and SSA (0∼50%) on cement paste. The mixing of seawater enhances the improvement effect of 10% SSA on frost resistance and capillary water absorption. Meanwhile, the seawater-mixed cement paste containing 30% SSA withstands 125 freeze-thaw cycles, superior to PC. After seawater mixing, SSA performs better in terms of the generation of high-density C–S–H gel. The promoting effect of SSA on the transformation of capillary pores into gel pores in cement paste and its content threshold are amplified. The chemical binding of Cl−and SO42−with amorphous Al2O3in SSA promotes the conversion of AFt to AFm. Additionally, based on multi-criteria analysis, the seawater-mixed sintered sludge cement is more competitive.

Magnesium phosphate cement (MPC) is a promising material known for its rapid hardening and high early-strength properties. However, its potential in engineering applications is hindered by its harden at an uncontrolled rate, considerable volumetric distortion and poor water resistance. To address the limitations, this study investigates the influence of sintered sludge ash (SSA) modification on the setting time, volume deformation, mechanical strength and water resistance of MPC composites. Experimental reveals that the setting time of MPC composites increase with higher SSA content, and the inclusion of SSA significantly mitigate volumetric deformation. Moreover, the mechanical strength exhibits improvement at all ages, and combine with water resistance analysis, 15% SSA content is the optimal level. Based on the XRD, TG, MIP and SEM, the enhanced properties of the MPC composites may be attributed to the reaction of SSA in the MPC system, leading to the resulting aluminum-containing gel phase acting as a binder along with guano to densify the microstructure.

Utilizing activated sludge as a partial substitute for cement can both curb cement consumption and address sludge reuse in an economically and environmentally-friendly manner. This study delves into the pozzolanic activity of mechanically-thermal (MT) activated sludge and alkali-mechanical-thermal (AMT) activated sludge, employing the strength activity index (SAI) method. Microscopic insights provided by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and laser particle size analysis aid in the interpretation of observed phenomena. The findings underscore the superiority of MT activation over AMT activation, with an SAI of 97%. Optimal pozzolanic activity is achieved through a 2-hours holding time, slow heating at 10°C/min, and rapid cooling. A calcination temperature of 800 °C effectively promotes the decomposition of active minerals and enhances the sludge's pozzolanic activity. Additionally, a ball milling time of 2minutes proves sufficient to meet practical demands, as prolonged ball milling has a limited impact on sludge pozzolanic activity.

Cobalt-Aluminum layered double hydroxide (CoAl LDH) is a hopeful electrode material due to the advantage of easy modifiability for preparing LDH-based derivatives. However, there is short of modification methods to prepare the Co-based derivatives from CoAl LDH and also short of an intuitive perspective to analyze the pseudocapacitance mechanism of CoAl LDH and its derivatives. Herein, Graphene/CoAl LDH and its derivatives including Graphene/CoS, Graphene/CoS-1, Graphene/CoOOH, Graphene/CoP were prepared by reasonably using alkali etching treatment, sulfofication and phosphorization. The specific capacitance of Graphene/CoAl LDH, Graphene/CoS, Graphene/CoS-1, Graphene/CoOOH, Graphene/CoP at 1 A g−1are 260.7, 371.3, 440.8, 61.4 and 122.2 F g−1, especially. The pseudocapacitance mechanism of Graphene/CoAl LDH and its derivatives was analyzed. Due to the positive effect of sulfofication on the electrical conductivity of GO and cobalt sulfide, the Graphene/CoS and Graphene/CoS-1 exhibit the optimal electrochemical performance and superior rate capability. In addition, due to the repulsion effect between Graphene and OH−, the Graphene/CoAl LDH exhibits optimal cycling stability of 224.1% capacitance retention after 20000 cycles. Besides, the reason of terrible specific capacitance of Graphene/CoOOH is that the presence of H bond in interlayer of CoOOH inhibits the interaction between Co3+and OH−species. Hence, not all modifications will increase the specific capacitance of the electrode materials. Overall, this work provides us with a detailed analysis of the electrochemical mechanism and correlation of CoAl LDH and its derivatives from the perspective of crystal structure and composition.

Efforts to develop microcapsules that respond to different stimuli derive from the incorporation of multiple dynamic assemblies of diverse functional species to the capsule shells. However, this usually involves complicated preparation processes that ultimately hinder the integration of multiple functionalities in a single material. This is addressed in the present work by proposing a multilevel interfacial assembly approach involving polymeric complexes that facilitate the fabrication of multistimuli-responsive microcapsules based on one-step Pickering emulsification using oppositely charged polycation–graphene oxide (GO) and polyanion–surfactant complexes prepared in immiscible liquid solutions. The complexes initially stabilize the emulsion based on electrostatic interactions. Subsequently, the highly dynamic bonding between the polymeric complexes facilitates the rearrangement of components at the oil/water interface to form a continuous interfacial shell membrane. The integrity of the microcapsule shells is sensitive to near-infrared irradiation owing to the GO component and is also sensitive to NaCl content because the assemblies between nanoparticles and polyelectrolytes are bonded through electrostatic interactions. The generality of the proposed strategy is demonstrated by the interfacial assembly of polycation–Fe3O4complexes and polyanion–surfactant complexes. The resulting microcapsules exhibit salt responsiveness, pH responsiveness, and the ability to be positioned controllably by the application of an external magnetic field. This work provides a promising approach for the preparation of multistimuli-responsive microcapsules.

Controlled release of hydrophobic agents from salt-responsive capsules is hindered by the hydrophilic shell and interfacial tension between inner oil and surrounding water. Rupturing shells in salt solution is another effective way. However, the densely entangled polyelectrolytes (PEs) in shells determined that the rupture requires extremely high ion-strength. Herein, salt-responsive capsules with double-network shells including a continuous PE-nanocrystal network and interfacial ion pairs are proposed and revealed via a one-step interfacial multilevel and multicomponent assembly (IMMA) method. Rigid nanocrystals can weaken the entanglements of PE chains and reduce the critical salt-concentration. Interfacial ion pairs are responsible for maintaining the stability of the shells. Such double networks enable the disintegration of capsules in an applicable salt-concentration without damaging the stability of capsules. In addition, hydrophobic domains assemblied by surfactants and PE-nanocrystal network supply transport pathway for oil to across hydrophilic shells and subsequently produce inverse micelle to carry oil into water. The mechanism of formation and release of capsules is systematically investigated, which further demonstrates IMMA to be a typical method for creation of sophisticated structures in a brief way.

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are attracting intense research interests as methyl orange (MO) adsorbent due to the unique anionic exchange ability. Herein, ultrasmall NiAl LDHs with Cl–intercalation were prepared by a facile method combining hydrothermal method with acid salt treatment. As a result, the as-prepared NiAl LDHs displayed favorable removal performance toward MO from aqueous solution due to the negligible carbonate contamination and ultrasmall nanosheets (about 50 nm). The maximum experimental and theoretical adsorption capacities of 853.19 and 900.14 mg g–1at pH = 7 and T= 298 K for MO were achieved for Ni4Al1–Cl LDH. The adsorption mechanism is dominated by chemisorption, and the adsorption process is spontaneous and endothermic. Possible “intercalation-split mechanism” for MO on NiAl–Cl LDH is proposed to explain the split of (003) plane. The improvement of adsorption capacity indicates that the acid salt treatment is an effective strategy to construct the rapid and high-effective anionic dyes adsorbents.

Due to the easily controllable interlayer anions, metal cation composition proportion and thickness, which is beneficial to modify surface chemical state and tune bandgap, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have great promising potential for photocatalytic applications. In this study, we have successfully synthesized the ZnAl–LDH intercalated the single anion between ZnAl cationic interlayer without anionic impurities by using a facile calcining and reconstructing routes. The electron structure and surface chemical state of the prepared products have been investigated by combining the DFT calculation and experimental characterization methods. UV–vis DRS was used to certify the light absorption of the prepared products, and we performed the DFT calculation to demonstrate the density of state and activation of reactant. These results suggested that the ZnAl–LDH–CO3possessed the more proper band structure and superior ability to activate NO and O2for accelerating the photocatalytic NO oxidation activity. Moreover, the in situDRIFTS with dynamically monitoring intermediates and products over the ZnAl–LDH–CO3was adopted to declare the photocatalytic NO oxidized process during the photocatalytic reaction process. This work illustrated the influence of different interlayer anions to the electron structure and surface chemical state of ZnAl–LDH structure through the experimental verification combined DFT calculation and the photocatalytic NO oxidized process via in situDRIFTS analyzing, which would provide a novel way to design and fabricate the efficient photocatalysis, and understand the reaction process.

We developed transmission diffraction grating-based spectroscopic single-molecule localization microscopy (sSMLM) to collect the spatial and spectral information of single-molecule blinking events concurrently. We characterized the spectral heterogeneities of multiple far-red emitting dyes in a high-throughput manner using sSMLM. We also investigated the influence of spectral dispersion on the single-molecule identification performance of fluorophores with large spectral overlapping. The careful tuning of spectral dispersion in grating-based sSMLM permitted simultaneous three-color super-resolution imaging in fixed cells with a single objective lens at a relatively low photon budget. Our sSMLM has a compact optical design and can be integrated with conventional localization microscopy to provide add-on spectroscopic analysis capability.

Elucidating chromatin structure in vitro requires resolution below 10 nm to visualize the mononucleosome has been an ongoing challenge. In this work, we achieve sub-10-nm imaging of nucleic acids via spectroscopic intrinsic-contrast photon-localization optical nanoscopy (SICLON) without the use of external labels. SICLON leverages two key innovations: using endogenous nucleotides as the emission source and a custom-made imaging system that can simultaneously record the position and optical spectra of emitting molecules. With a novel spectral regression algorithm that identifies the spectroscopic fingerprints of neighboring molecules that were previously indistinguishable, we demonstrate the utility of SICLON by visualizing unlabeled poly-nucleotides and linear single-stranded DNA fibers with a resolution of 6.2 nm.

We developed a patterned-illumination second harmonic generation (PI-SHG) microscopy, which combines the principle of structured illumination reconstruction with SHG microscopy for label-free super-resolution imaging. We confirmed that PI-SHG microscopy can achieve 1.59-time resolution improvement compared to conventional SHG microscopy by imaging nanowire samples. We further demonstrated three-dimensional PI-SHG microscopy in imaging ex vivo collagen fibrils in rat scleras.

Melanin is the dominant light absorber in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The loss of RPE melanin is a sign of ocular senescence and is both a risk factor and a symptom of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Quantifying the RPE melanin concentration provides insight into the pathological role of RPE in ocular aging and the onset and progression of AMD. The main challenge in accurate quantification of RPE melanin concentration is to distinguish this ten-micrometer-thick cell monolayer from the underlying choroid, which also contains melanin but carries different pathognomonic information. In this work, we investigated a three-dimensional photoacoustic microscopic (PAM) method with high axial resolution, empowered by broad acoustic detection bandwidth, to distinguish RPE from choroid and quantify melanin concentrations in the RPE ex vivo. We first conducted numerical simulation on photoacoustic generation in the RPE, which suggested that a PAM system with at least 100-MHz detection bandwidth provided sufficient axial resolution to distinguish the melanin in RPE from that in choroid. Based on simulation results, we integrated a transparent broadband micro-ring resonator (MRR) based detector in a homebuilt PAM system. We imaged ex vivo RPE-choroid complexes (RCCs) from both porcine and human eyes and quantified the absolute melanin concentrations in the RPE and choroid, respectively. In our study, the measured melanin concentrations were 14.7 mg/mL and 17.0 mg/mL in human and porcine RPE, and 12 mg/mL and 61 mg/mL in human and porcine choroid, respectively. This study suggests that broadband PAM is capable of quantifying the RPE melanin concentration from RCCs ex vivo.

Accurate plantar pressure mapping systems with low dependence on the external power supply are highly desired for preventative healthcare and medical diagnosis. Herein, we propose a self-powered smart insole system that can perform both static and dynamic plantar pressure mapping with high accuracy. The smart insole system integrates an insole-shaped sensing unit, a multi-channel data acquisition board, and a data storage module. The smart insole consists of a 44-pixel sensor array based on triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) to transduce pressure to the electrical signal. By optimizing the sensor architecture and the system's robustness, the smart insole achieves high sensitivity, good error-tolerance capability, excellent durability, and short response–recovery time. Various gait and mobility patterns, such as standing, introversion/extraversion, throwing, and surpassing obstacles, can be distinguished by analyzing the acquired electrical signals. This work paves the way for self-powered wearable devices for gait monitoring, which might enable a new modality of medical diagnosis. A self-powered wearable plantar pressure mapping system with a high spatial resolution has been developed. By integrating the 44-pixel sensor array based on triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) and the multi-channel data acquisition system, the plantar pressure can be accurately monitored. Moreover, the smart insole system can monitor and discriminate different gaits and motion states.

In article number 10.1002/bmm2.12008, Xingyi Dai, Qi Qin, Long-Biao Huang, and co-workers report a self-powered wearable plantar pressure mapping system with a high spatial resolution. The smart insole system with 44-pixel sensor array based on triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) can be used to accurately monitor the plantar pressure. Different gaits and motion states can be discriminated.

Inorganic microcapsules (IMs) have gained significant attention as versatile platforms for delivering functional agents in various fields. Traditional template-dependent methods employing hard templates often involve complex and harsh template removal processes. Achieving IMs with diverse composition and structure remains challenging with current preparation strategies. Therefore, in this work, we have for the first time demonstrated an extremely facile and efficient liquid-marbles-based template approach for fabricating pure inorganic microcapsules via interfacial reaction in a mild aqueous solution. The water–water reaction interface is created by changing the wettability of the liquid marble (LM) surface through the icing–melting process. The composition and function of the inorganic shell could be easily adjusted by varying the inorganic reagent species of the interfacial reaction, the hydrophobic particle of the shell, and the reaction environment according to the specific requirements of the application field. Such an approach provides a flexible platform for material preparation.

Vascular systems for mass recycling promise to endow cementitious materials with self-recovering abilities, which would prolong their durability. However, there is still a lack of strategy in the construction of freeform vasculature with three-dimensional connectivity. In this work, we have developed an embedded printing strategy within cementitious materials, in which a Pickering emulsion gel is developed as the fugitive ink. The proposed two-phase ink allows versatile printing, effective sealing, and can be removed under mild conditions, enabling the formation of freeform, isolated vascular networks. To support the development of embedded printing strategy, we also analyzed the relationships between vessel features, CM hydration, writing speed, and flow rate. The tested aqueous healing agent moves through the printed vasculature to reach and heal cracks, demonstrating the effectiveness of this internal structure in terms of mass transport. We conclude that embedded printing allows the creation of vascular structures in cementitious materials and, ultimately, of intelligent construction materials.

We report the usefulness of a single all-fiber-based supercontinuum (SC) source for combined photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). The SC light is generated by a tapered photonic crystal fiber pumped by a nanosecond pulsed master oscillator power amplifier at 1064 nm. The spectrum is split into a shorter wavelength band (500–800 nm) for single/multi-spectral PAM and a longer wavelength band (800–900 nm) band for OCT. In vivo mouse ear imaging was achieved with an integrated dual-modality system. We further demonstrated its potential for spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging by doing multispectral measurements on retinal pigment epithelium and blood samples with 15-nm linewidth.

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) is an attractive imaging tool that complements established optical microscopic modalities by providing additional molecular specificities through imaging optical absorption contrast. While the development of optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy (ORPAM) offers high lateral resolution, the acoustically determined axial resolution is limited due to the constraint in ultrasonic detection bandwidth. ORPAM with isometric spatial resolution along both axial and lateral directions is yet to be developed. Although recently developed sophisticated optical illumination and reconstruction methods offer improved axial resolution in ORPAM, the image acquisition procedures are rather complicated, limiting their capabilities for high-speed imaging and being easily integrated with established optical microscopic modalities. Here we report an isometric ORPAM based on an optically transparent micro-ring resonator ultrasonic detector and a commercial inverted microscope platform. Owing to the superior spatial resolution and the ease of integrating our ORPAM with established microscopic modalities, single-cell imaging with extrinsic fluorescence staining, intrinsic autofluorescence, and optical absorption can be achieved simultaneously. This technique holds promise to greatly improve the accessibility of PAM to broader biomedical researchers.

We designed an all-optical photoacoustic (PA) probe for endoscopic applications by employing an optically transparent, coverslip-type, polymeric microring resonator ultrasonic sensor. We experimentally quantified the axial, tangential, and radial resolutions and angular sensitive stability of this probe. Using this probe, we achieved volumetric imaging of several phantoms. Our all-optical probe design offers clear benefit in integrating PA endoscope with other optical endoscopic imaging modalities to facilitate the transformation from bench to bedside.

When metakaolin (MK) is alkalized with an alkaline activator, it depolymerizes under the action of the alkali. However, the process of MK alkalinization is still unrevealed. Here, we supplied a molecular insight into the process of MK alkalinization through reaction molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The structure, dynamics, and process of MK alkalinization are systematically investigated. The results showed that the layered structure of MK was destroyed and the silicates in MK were dissolved by sodium hydroxide solution during the alkalinization reaction of MK. The aluminates in MK are not dissolved, indicating that aluminates are more stable than silicates. Moreover, the equilibrium structures of MK with H2O and MK with NaOH solution show that only when both sodium hydroxide and water are involved in the alkalinization reaction, the silicates in MK undergo depolymerization. Also, the observed final state of MK alkalinization can be recognized as the precursor of alkali-activated materials (AAMs).

The transmission spectra perform huge fluctuations even in the mostly suitable one-dimensional localized multilayer system. Fluctuations of layer thicknesses will cause random resonances between light waves and layers. We reveal that the nonuniform ensembles of the resonances are the key for the fluctuations of transmission spectra. The transmission spectra of each stack of layers are numerically calculated through the transfer-matrix method.

Black phosphorus (BP) has recently emerged as an intriguing photothermal agent in photothermal therapy (PTT) against cancer by virtue of its high photothermal efficiency, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. However, naked BP is intrinsically characterized by easy oxidation (or natural degradation) and sedimentation inside the tumor microenvironment, leading to a short‐term therapeutic and inhomogeneous photothermal effect. Development of BP‐based nanocomposites for PTT against cancer therefore remains challenging. The present work demonstrates that green and injectable composite hydrogels based on cellulose and BP nanosheets (BPNSs) are of great efficiency for PTT against cancer. The resultant cellulose/BPNS‐based hydrogel possesses 3D networks with irregular micrometer‐sized pores and thin, strong cellulose‐formed walls and exhibits an excellent photothermal response, enhanced stability, and good flexibility. Importantly, this hydrogel nanoplatform is totally harmless and biocompatible both in vivo and in vitro. This work may facilitate the development of BP–polymer‐based photothermal agents in the form of hydrogels for biomedical‐related clinic applications. 3D composite hydrogels based on 2D black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets and celluloseare developed in this work. Their morphology, physical properties, and biocompatibility/toxicity are investigated. Based on these characterizations, the 3D cellulose/BP composite hydrogel‐based nanoplatforms are realized for photothermal therapy against cancer, and their performance is evaluated.

In article number 1701510, Liping Liu, Han Zhang, and co‐workers demonstrate that green and injectable composite hydrogels based on cellulose and Black Phosphorus (BP) nanosheets (BPNSs) are of great efficiency for photothermal therapy (PTT) against cancer. The cellulose/BPNS‐based hydrogel possesses 3D networks with irregular micrometer‐sized pores and thin, strong cellulose‐formed walls and exhibits an excellent photothermal response, enhanced stability, and good flexibility.

ABSTRACTDespite the success of CD20 antibody rituximab in immunotherapy, acquired resistance is one of the prime obstacles for the successful treatment of B-cell malignancies. There is an urgent need to intensify efforts against resistance in cancer treatment. Growing evidence indicated that lysosomes may form an “Achilles heel” for cancer cells by sensitizing them to death pathways. Here, we uncover an important role of CD20 in initiation of ceramide/lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP)-mediated cell death, showing that colocalization of CD20-TNFR1 after type II CD20 antibody ligation can stimulate de novoceramide synthesis by ceramide synthase and consequently induce remarkable lysosomal permeabilization (LMP) and lysosome-mediated cell death. Further studies show that the potent lysosome-mediated cell death induced by CD20 antibodies exhibits a profound killing effect against both rituximab-sensitive and -resistant (RR) lymphoma. Furthermore, engineering of rituximab by introducing a point mutation endows it with the ability to induce potent ceramide/LMP-mediated cell death in both RR lymphoma and primary B-cell malignancies from patients with rituximab-refractory, suggesting the potential clinical application to combat rituximab resistance.

The brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), is one of the most important insect pests on paddy rice in tropical and temperate Asia. Overuse and misuse of insecticides have resulted in the development of high resistance to many different insecticides in this pest. Studies were conducted to evaluate the change of resistance level to four insecticides over 15 generations without any exposure to insecticides in brown planthopper. After 15 generations’ rearing without exposure to insecticide, brown planthopper could reverse the resistance to imidacloprid, chlorpyrifos, fipronil, and fenobucarb. The range and style of resistance reversal of brown planthopper differed when treated with four different insecticides. To monitor potential changes in insect physiological responses, we measured the activity of each of the three selected enzymes, including acetylcholinesterases (AChE), general esterases (EST), and glutathione S-transferases. After multiple generations’ rearing without exposure to insecticide, AChE and EST activities of brown planthopper declined with the increased generations, suggesting that the brown planthopper population adjusted activities of EST and AChE to adapt to the non-insecticide environment. These findings suggest that the reducing, temporary stop, or rotation of insecticide application could be incorporated into the brown planthopper management.