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• Bayberry tannin was used as the cross-linking agent of acrylic conductive organhydrogel, which reduced the requirement for polymerization. • Organhydrogel possessed excellent physical, adhesive, self-healing, anti-freezing and conductive properties. • The electronic skin based on organhydrogel showed excellent specific recognition of the movement of the human. • E-skin smart glove could seamlessly detect multi-angle free movement of the hand. • With the help of deep learning, e-skin smart gloves could accurately extract hand motion features and translate them in real time. Language barrier is the main cause of disagreement. Sign language, which is a common language in all the worldwide language families, is difficult to be entirely popularized due to the high cost of learning as well as the technical barrier in real-time translation. To solve these problems, here, we constructed a wearable organohydrogel-based electronic skin (e-skin) with fast self-healing, strong adhesion, extraordinary anti-freezing and moisturizing properties for sign language recognition under complex environments. The e-skin was obtained by using an acrylic network as the main body, aluminum (III) and bayberry tannin as the crosslinking agent, water/ethylene glycol as the solvent system, and a polyvinyl alcohol network to optimize the network performance. Using this e-skin, a smart glove was further built, which could carry out the large-scale data collection of common gestures and sign languages. With the help of the deep learning method, specific recognition and translation for various gestures and sign languages could be achieved. The accuracy was 93.5%, showing the ultra-high classification accuracy of a sign language interpreter. In short, by integrating multiple characteristics and combining deep learning technology with hydrogel materials, the e-skin achieved an important breakthrough in human-computer interaction and artificial intelligence, and provided a feasible strategy for solving the dilemma of mutual exclusion between flexible electronic devices and human bodies. A new type of PAA/PVA-based conductive organhydrogel e-skin was prepared using green, natural, cheap and environmentally friendly bayberry tannin as a crosslinking agent, and exhibited excellent physical, self-healing, adhesion and anti-freezing properties, and applied to design and fabricate a smart wearable translation glove for sign language recognition. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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• A novel PVA/starch/tea polyphenol-based conductive organohydrogel is fabricated. • Organohydrogel contains dynamic borate ester bonds and reversible multiple hydrogen bonds. • Organohydrogel features its remarkable self-healing and self-adhesive properties in the air, underwater and at low temperature. • Organohydrogel exhibits anti-freezing, moisturizing, antibacterial and pH/sugar-responsive properties. • Organohydrogel as strain sensor can accurately monitor various human motions and vital signs. The complexity of application environment stimulates the development of wearable devices based on functional hydrogels. Among all the promising performances, self-healing and self-adhesion properties are ideal for hydrogel sensors, which can guarantee good accuracy, comfort and long service life. However, it is still a challenge to achieve simultaneous self-healing and self-adhesion in different environments (in the air, underwater and at low temperatures). Herein, a feasible new strategy was successfully carried out to prepare a starch-based composite conductive organohydrogel based on the reversible borate ester bonds formed by complexing starch/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/tea polyphenol (TP) with borax, and multiple hydrogen-bond interactions among PVA, starch, TP and ethylene glycol (EG). Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), reduced and stabilized by TP, and MWCNTs (multi-walled carbon nanotubes) were introduced into the cross-linking networks to endow the resulting PBSTCE organohydrogel with considerable antibacterial property and conductivity, respectively. The organohydrogel possessed rapid self-healing (HE (self-healing efficiency) = 96.07% in 90 s, both in the air and underwater, also at -20 °C), considerable self-adhesion (both in the air and underwater, also at -20 °C), remarkable stretchability (814% of elongation), anti-freezing (-20 °C) and moisture-retention abilities, antibacterial activity, sensitive pH/sugar-responsiveness, and plasticity. The strain sensor formed by the PBSTCE organohydrogel can not only effectively record large-scale human motions (e.g. finger/wrist/elbow bending, walking, etc.), but also accurately capture subtle motion changes (e.g. breathing, chewing, swallowing, speaking, smiling and frowning). Moreover, the self-healed organohydrogel sensor also exhibited almost invariable mechanical, electrical and sensing behaviors. This work demonstrates a feasible strategy to construct multifunctional starch-based organohydrogels, and promotes their efficient, stable and eco-friendly application as flexible wearable devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An injectable organohydrogel (IOH) is developed for expedited skin wound care. • IOH has non-drying property and high mechanical stability at low-temperature. • IOH demonstrated an efficient loading and sustained release of curcumin. • Curcumin-releasing IOH enhanced healing of a murine full-thickness defect wound. Although hydrogels have demonstrated great potential as new wound dressing materials, their instability in shape and/or mechanical characteristics due to water loss or freezing remains a shortcoming for wound care application. Herein, a novel injectable organohydrogel (IOH) of physically crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol/glycerol that possesses non-drying capability and high stability at low temperature was developed for wound care. IOH has a skin-like stiffness (G' , ∼280 Pa), high injectability, self-healing capability, high water-vapor transmission rate, and bacterial inhibitory effect. IOH exhibits high shape and mechanical stabilities after curing at 37 °C and 50% relative humidity for 7 days or after curing at –20 °C for 1 day. In addition, glycerol in IOH enabled an efficient loading and release of water-insoluble curcumin, a well-known anti-bacterial and anti-inflammation drug. The curcumin-releasing IOH (Cur-IOH) demonstrated significantly enhanced anti-bacterial performance compared to IOH or curcumin-loading polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel. More importantly, Cur-IOH could accelerate wound healing in a murine full-thickness skin defect wound model, revealing improved wound contraction, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and epidermis formation. This study demonstrates the great potential of organohydrogel for the reparation of severe wounds and Cur-IOH as a new type of injectable wound healing material. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted at the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom focused on cancer detection, specifically prostate cancer, using multiparametric ultrasound (mpUS) and tissue-mimicking materials (TMM) phantoms made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The research aimed to create phantoms that mimic normal and abnormal prostate tissue, blood vessels, and soft tissue to enhance diagnostic training and validation. The study found that the acoustic properties of the PVA phantoms varied based on enhancers like glycerol and aluminium oxide, with different molecular weights of PVA showing distinct speed of sound, attenuation, and Young's modulus values. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the First Hospital of Jilin University in Changchun, People's Republic of China, have developed a new hydrogel for wearable sensors with biocompatibility, antimicrobial stability, and anti-freezing properties. The hydrogel, made from polyvinyl alcohol, phytic acid, and glycerol, showed bacteriostatic effects against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis, as well as antibacterial stability over 7 days. This innovative material has the potential for use in medical applications such as implantable sensors and clinical interventions. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the European Polymer Journal. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Osaka Saiseikai Nakatsu Hospital conducted a study comparing the efficacy and safety of polyvinyl alcohol sponge (PVAS) and gauze packing for nasal fracture treatment. The study found that both materials were effective, but the PVAS group had fewer instances of uncontrolled bleeding and packing loss. The research suggests that PVAS may be a suitable option for pediatric and geriatric patients, individuals with allergic rhinitis, and those at risk of bleeding. The study has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights for medical professionals in the field of respiratory therapeutics. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Fort Hare in South Africa focused on developing sodium alginate-based single- and double-layer membranes loaded with Capparis sepiaria root extract for wound healing. The membranes were found to be biodegradable, non-toxic to human skin cells, and exhibited high biocompatibility and good hemocompatibility. They also showed enhanced antimicrobial activity against pathogens responsible for wound infections, making them promising wound dressings for treating infected wounds. The research was funded by the South African Medical Research Council and involved a team of researchers from various institutions. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Zhejiang Ocean University in Zhoushan, China, have developed an electrospun film made of polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan loaded with cinnamon essential oil to inhibit polyphenol oxidase and spoilage bacteria in refrigerated Pacific white shrimp. The film showed improved transparency, tensile strength, and water contact angle compared to the base material. The study suggests that this film has the potential to delay melanosis and spoilage in refrigerated shrimp, offering a promising solution for food preservation. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Chongqing University of Technology in China focused on developing hydrogel coatings for urinary catheters to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). The coatings, made of silver nanoparticles, sodium alginate, polyacrylamide, and polyvinyl alcohol, demonstrated antibacterial and antiadhesive properties, potentially reducing the risk of CAUTIs. The research highlighted the effectiveness of the hydrogel-coated urinary catheter in preventing infections, showcasing promising results for future applications in healthcare settings. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Xiamen University of Technology in China have developed a new method for creating active inner coatings for food packaging using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) reinforced with chlorogenic acid and functionalized layered clay. The study found that incorporating 3 wt% of layered clay enhanced the antioxidant, antibacterial, and UV absorption properties of the coating. This innovative approach aims to improve the effectiveness and stability of active functions in food packaging applications, particularly in constructing polylactic acid (PLA) three-layer active films. [Extracted from the article]

A study from Jiangsu University in the People's Republic of China explores the synthesis, mechanisms, and additives for bio-compatible polyvinyl alcohol hydrogels. Polyvinyl alcohol hydrogels have high biocompatibility and are used in various applications, but their poor mechanical properties and biocompatibility compared to natural polymers limit their practical use. The study reviews methods to enhance the mechanical properties of PVA hydrogels, types of bio-additives for biocompatibility, and future prospects for their application in various fields. The research highlights the importance of bio-additives in improving the multifunctionality of PVA hydrogels for biomedical and tissue engineering purposes. [Extracted from the article]

The University of Liege conducted research on the preparation of active films with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties by combining ginger essential oil nanoemulsion with xylan and polyvinyl alcohol. The nanoemulsions, produced via ultrasound, showed stability and compatibility with the film matrix. The composite films exhibited enhanced UV shielding, mechanical characteristics, water barrier performance, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial properties, making them promising for applications in active food packaging. The research was peer-reviewed and conducted by Marie-Laure Fauconnier, Junhan Liu, Aurore Richel, and Yuhong Jin at the Laboratory of Chemistry of Natural Molecules, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege in Belgium. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Can Tho University in Vietnam focused on developing nanofibrous membranes for wound healing enhancement by incorporating curcumin using a co-axial electro-spinning method. The research found that the nanofiber membrane effectively released curcumin, exhibited antibacterial properties, and significantly improved wound healing in incised-wound rats. The study concluded that the novel PVA/CCM@CS/PVA/CC nanofiber membrane could be a promising candidate for wound dressing therapeutic applications. The research was financially supported by the Vietnam Ministry of Education and Training and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Changzhou University in the People's Republic of China have developed a novel antibacterial gel using dandelion extract and copper nanoparticles. The gel, known as PVA/CTS/DAN/CuNP, demonstrated strong antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This composite gel shows promise for applications in microbial contamination treatment and environmental protection. The study was supported by various scientific and technological programs and can be accessed for further information through the journal Processes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Methods of Generating Libraries of Nucleic Acid Sequences for Detection via Fluorescent in Situ Sequ" was published online by inventors from Massachusetts. The application focuses on enhancing hybridization reactions in cells for accurate detection of RNA and DNA sequences using fluorescent in situ sequencing (FISSEQ). The method involves providing a reaction mixture with target nucleic acid molecules, probes, and a hybridization reaction enhancing agent to facilitate the detection process. The patent application outlines various aspects of the method, including the use of polymer backbones, functional groups, enzymatic reactions, and cleavable linkers to improve the efficiency of nucleic acid detection. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Amirkabir University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, have developed a novel drug delivery system using a nanocomposite of starch, polyvinyl alcohol, and halloysite nanotubes to encapsulate quercetin, a natural anti-cancer agent. The nanocomposite showed promising results in targeted drug delivery, with high encapsulation and drug loading efficiencies. In vitro studies demonstrated sustained release of quercetin and significant cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cancer cells, suggesting potential for use in cancer treatment. The research highlights the potential of this pH-responsive drug delivery system for improving cancer therapy. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for an embolization microcatheter head with a slitted pattern by Accurate Medical Therapeutics Ltd. The invention aims to reduce the risk of non-targeted embolization during medical procedures. The microcatheter design includes a polymeric tubing with axial slits to allow fluid passage while blocking particles, maintaining a fixed ratio of fluid flow rates. This innovation could improve the safety and efficacy of embolization procedures for various medical conditions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Guangzhou Maritime University in China discusses the advancements in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based hydrogels and their potential applications in regenerative medicine. The report highlights the biocompatibility and tunable mechanical properties of PVA-based hydrogels, as well as their ability to form stable three-dimensional networks. The review explores various synthesis techniques and enhancements that have improved the mechanical strength and responsiveness of these hydrogels. The report also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in realizing the full potential of PVA-based hydrogels in addressing societal challenges. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at KLE Technological University in Karnataka, India, explores the use of a sustainable immobilization system using polyvinyl alcohol-alginate for pectinase from the Aspergillus cervinus ARS2 strain. The pectinase was purified and immobilized into polyvinyl alcohol-alginate beads, and its characteristics were studied. The immobilized pectinase showed better stability and less activity compared to free pectinase. The study suggests that the immobilized pectinase could be a promising and sustainable industrial process for fruit juice clarification. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Tongji University in Shanghai, China, has developed a new method for creating flexible and stretchable bioelectronic interfaces for cardiac pacing. The researchers used laser-induced graphene (LIG) and water-responsive polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gels to create robust and conductive composites. These composites were successfully used for electrocardiogram signal recording and electrical pacing on rat hearts in both ex vivo and in vivo experiments. The study expands the application of LIG in bioelectronic interfaces and has the potential to advance electrotherapy for cardiac diseases. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Beijing Technology and Business University in China have conducted a study on the use of liposomes to improve the stability and release properties of eugenol, the main component of essential oils. They successfully prepared eugenol liposomes with an average particle size of 40-70 nm and an encapsulation rate of 87.12%. By combining liposomes with electrostatic spinning technology, they also created a nanofibrous membrane that exhibited excellent antioxidant and bacteriostatic properties. This research suggests that the combination of liposomes and electrostatic spinning could have potential applications in the food and medicine industries. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the University of Karachi in Pakistan explored the use of a hydrogel sheet for the treatment of full-thickness acid burn wounds. The hydrogel, made from a combination of polyvinyl alcohol and tapioca starch, was loaded with alpha-terpineol, a compound known for its healing properties. The researchers found that the hydrogel promoted wound closure, re-epithelialization, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and keratin deposition, leading to the healing of both dermal and epidermal tissues. The study suggests that this hydrogel could be a cost-effective and efficient wound dressing for acid burn wounds. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Henan University of Technology in Zhengzhou, China, has found that incorporating cinnamaldehyde and nonanal into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films, along with colloidal silicon dioxide (CSD), can enhance the antifungal properties of the films. The addition of CSD improved water resistance and tensile strength, while the combination of cinnamaldehyde and nonanal showed a synergistic effect against Aspergillus flavus. The composite film demonstrated high UV barrier, water resistance, mechanical properties, and antifungal activity, making it a promising option for food packaging. The research was supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Henan. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran focused on the use of intra-arterial embolization as a pre-surgical treatment for Glomus jugular tumors. These tumors, located in the temporal bone, are known for their vascular nature and the high risk of intraoperative bleeding during surgical excision. The study found that intra-arterial embolization was safe, technically successful, and effective in reducing the size of the vascular blush before surgery. The research involved 61 patients and reported a low rate of complications, with only 18% experiencing post-embolization pain. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated has been made available online, describing a composition for generating stem cell-derived pancreatic beta cells. This composition, which includes a water-soluble synthetic polymer and precursor cells, has the potential to be used in the treatment of diabetes by providing an unlimited supply of human beta cells for transplantation. The patent application also mentions the inclusion of growth factors and inhibitors to enhance the differentiation process. More information and detailed claims can be found in the patent application, accessible through the provided URL. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research on alcohols and their application in food packaging. The study focuses on the synthesis of a bisquaternary ammonium salt of tannic acid (BQTA) and its combination with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to create bioplastics for packaging purposes. The research found that the addition of BQTA to PVA composite film inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, demonstrating excellent antimicrobial properties. The bioplastics also showed antioxidant and UV protection properties, as well as improved thermal stability and tensile strength. The findings suggest that BQTA/PVA bioplastics have the potential to be used in packaging to preserve food freshness and nutrition. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Guangzhou Medical University in China explores the use of polymeric embolic granules for vascular embolizations against hepatocellular carcinoma. The researchers aimed to overcome the limitations of traditional embolic materials by using pentaerythritol triallyl ether (APE) and its esterified product APEAA to create new polymeric amorphous embolic granules (PAPE and PAPEAA). The study found that these granules demonstrated good physical properties and achieved the desired therapeutic effect in animal experiments. The research suggests that these amorphous granules could be a promising new embolic material for clinical use. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Topi, Pakistan, explored the use of composite coatings on stainless steel (SS) orthopedic implants to enhance their biocompatibility, bioactivity, and antibacterial properties. The coatings, made from synthetic biopolymer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), calcium hydrate (C-H) nanorods, and Moringa oleifera, were deposited on the SS implants using electrophoretic deposition (EPD). The study found that the composite coatings exhibited optimal protein attachment and cellular uptake, strong adhesion, and appropriate surface roughness for protein attachment. Additionally, the coatings demonstrated antibacterial activity and rapid bioactivity by forming a hydroxyapatite (HA) layer within 24 hours. These findings suggest that the composite coatings can enhance the performance of SS orthopedic implants in a cost-effective manner. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Beijing Institute of Technology discusses research on the thermal aging mechanism of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel, which is commonly used in machinery and tissue engineering due to its mechanical properties. The study conducted high-temperature accelerated aging tests on PVA hydrogels and analyzed their performance. The findings revealed three aging stages, including a reduction in free water, a reduction in bound water, and the depletion of bound water, which corresponded to volume shrinkage, decreased elongation, and a "tough-brittle" transition. The study concluded that the loss of bound water significantly affected the lifespan of PVA hydrogel structural components. This research provides valuable insights for assessing and improving the lifespan of PVA hydrogels. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Qingdao University of Science and Technology in China discusses the development of food packaging films with improved properties. The researchers created a curcumin inclusion compound to introduce oil-soluble curcumin into water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol materials, resulting in films with enhanced antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The films also had increased barrier properties and reduced oxygen transmission, which can help slow down the oxidation reaction of fruits during packaging. The study suggests that these films have potential applications in the field of food packaging. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Northwest A&F University in Shaanxi, China have developed and characterized biodegradable films for food packaging. The films were made from a composite of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and hydrophobically modified deacetyl konjac glucomannan (DK), loaded with cinnamaldehyde (CA) emulsion. The films showed enhanced water resistance and antibacterial properties, making them potentially suitable for food packaging applications. The research was supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Shaanxi. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from China Pharmaceutical University have developed size-tailored and acid-degradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microgels for inhalation therapy of bacterial pneumonia. These microgels loaded with piperacillin antibiotics were found to effectively treat pneumonia by releasing the drug with high inhibition efficiency against E. coli. The inhalational delivery of these microgels showed superior lung deposition and reduced infection and inflammation. This research offers a versatile and efficacious inhalation therapy for pneumonia-associated infections. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for apparatuses and methods for negative pressure wound therapy with switchable fluid management. The patent describes a device that provides negative pressure to a wound site using a cover layer, a porous hydrophobic layer, and a porous hydrophilic ring. The device aims to prevent fluid transmission when negative pressure is applied and allow fluid transmission when negative pressure is not being applied. The invention is intended to improve the healing rate of wounds and reduce the likelihood of infection. The patent was filed by inventors from the United Kingdom and assigned to T.J.Smith and Nephew Limited. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at the Children's Hospital of Fudan University in China explores the use of silver nanoparticles stabilized by chitosan-polyvinyl alcohol polymers for the treatment of functional dyspepsia and gastric cancer. The researchers found that the nanocomposite showed promising results in inhibiting the growth of gastric cancer cells and inducing cell apoptosis. Additionally, the nanocomposite had positive effects on the gut microbiome, rebalancing the composition of bacteria. The study suggests that the nanocomposite could be a potential treatment for functional dyspepsia and gastric cancer. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Yarmouk University in Irbid, Jordan, has developed a new type of Fricke radio-chromic gel dosimeter for use in radiotherapy. The dosimeter, made from a composition of polyvinyl alcohol, xylenol orange, and gellan gum, was found to have high sensitivity and a low diffusion coefficient. The dosimeter demonstrated independence of beam energy and dose rate, and the estimated doses had a total uncertainty of 3.96% at a 95% confidence level. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the journal Radiation Measurements. [Extracted from the article]

A research report from the University of Tehran discusses the use of nanocatalysts to degrade high amounts of chloramphenicol and amitriptyline, which are dangerous impurities found in drugs. The researchers developed a method to immobilize the nanocatalyst onto a non-soluble polymeric substrate, allowing for efficient degradation under UV radiation. The materials used were characterized and the degradation process was optimized. The research successfully employed four different water samples as real samples. This study provides new insights into the use of nanocatalysts for drug contamination mitigation. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted at the Universidad del Atlantico explores the use of lyophilized polyvinyl alcohol and chitosan scaffolds pre-loaded with silicon dioxide nanoparticles for tissue regeneration. The researchers found that these materials have a soft tissue regenerative capacity and can promote tissue growth and proliferation. The scaffolds also demonstrated good biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties. The study highlights the important role of nanoparticles in optimizing scaffold properties and expanding the boundaries of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Iran have developed a novel film for intelligent and active food packaging. The film is made from barberry anthocyanins immobilized on cobalt-based metal-organic framework (Co-MOF) nanoparticles, along with biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan nanofiber (ChNF). The film has antimicrobial properties, can detect freshness sensitively, and has improved tensile strength, flexibility, UV protection, and water vapor resistance. It also changes color to indicate spoilage of red meat. The research concludes that these films can be used as intelligent and active food packaging materials. [Extracted from the article]

New research from Assiut University in Egypt explores the use of clay nanoparticles mixed with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for food packaging. The study examines the effects of different weight ratios of clay nanoparticles on the mechanical, thermal, optical, and antibacterial properties of PVA/clay composites. The addition of clay nanoparticles improves the thermal conductivity, water vapor transport rates, and antibacterial performance of the PVA, while reducing water absorption, moisture level, transmission, and brightness. These findings suggest that incorporating clay nanoparticles could be beneficial for food packaging applications. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Tunku Abdul Rahman in Malaysia have developed a dual-mode ammonia sensor for real-time quality monitoring of protein-rich food products. The sensor utilizes naturally occurring anthocyanin extracted from Clitoria ternatea and reinforced with polyvinyl alcohol, along with graphene nanoplatelets, to enhance sensitivity to ammonia gas. The sensor is cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and incorporates near-field communication technology for batteryless and wireless sensing response transmission. This sensor offers a promising solution for widespread adoption in the food industry to ensure the quality and safety of perishable goods. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been filed for a new dental arch toothbrush that aims to improve oral hygiene by providing a customized fit for each individual's teeth. The toothbrush is designed to address the problem of universal mouthpieces that do not adapt to different tooth geometries or sizes, resulting in suboptimal cleaning and difficulty reaching interdental spaces. The method involves detecting the dental arch shape of a patient and shaping it out from a disk in which the bristles of the toothbrush are embedded. The invention also includes a disk made of plastic material for producing the toothbrush, with various advantageous embodiments such as dissolvable support material and adjustable dimensions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Northwestern Polytechnical University explores the use of hydrogels and aerogels in various energy-related applications. The researchers highlight the potential of these materials in catalysis, informatics, biomedicine, energy conversion, and storage. Hydrogels, made of polymers, and aerogels, nanoporous or microporous networks, offer unique properties that can be modified to enhance their optoelectronic, physicochemical, and mechanical characteristics. The study provides an overview of the most studied hydrogel and aerogel materials, as well as their applications in flexible sensors, batteries, supercapacitors, catalysis, biomedical, and thermal insulation. [Extracted from the article]

• Solid-liquid interpenetrating heat conduction network. • Heat conduction and storage function. • Efficient thermal management materials. Polyvinyl alcohol hydrogels have been used in wearable devices due to their good flexibility and biocompatibility. However, due to the low thermal conductivity (κ) of pure hydrogel, its further application in high power devices is limited. To solve this problem, melamine sponge (MS) was used as the skeleton to wrap boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) through repeated layering assembly, successfully preparing a three-dimensional (3D) boron nitride network (BNNS@MS), and PVA hydrogels were formed in the pores of the network. Due to the existence of the continuous phonon conduction network, the BNNS@MS/PVA exhibited an improved κ. When the content of BNNS is about 6 wt.%, κ of the hydrogel was increased to 1.12 W m−1 K−1, about two times higher than that of pure hydrogel. The solid heat conduction network and liquid convection network cooperate to achieve good thermal management ability. Combined with its high specific heat capacity, the composites have an important application prospect in the field of wearable flexible electronic thermal management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]