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Osteoarthritis (OA), a common and disabling degenerative joint disease, affects millions of people worldwide and imposes a considerable burden on patients and society due to its high prevalence and economic costs. The pathogenesis of OA is closely related to the progressive degradation of articular cartilage and the accompany inflammation; however, articular cartilage itself cannot heal and modulate the inflammation due to the lack of nerves, blood vessels, and lymph-vessels. Therefore, reliable and effective methods to treat OA remain highly desired. Local administration of drugs or bioactive materials by intra-articular injection of the delivery system represents a promising approach to treat OA, especially considering the prolonged joint retention, cartilage or chondrocytes targeting, and stimuli-responsive release to achieve precision OA therapy. This article summarizes and discusses the advances in the currently used delivery systems (nanoparticle, hydrogel, liposome, and microsphere) and then focuses on their applications in OA treatment from the perspective of endogenous stimulus (redox reactions, pH, enzymes, and temperature) and exogenous stimulus (near-infrared, magnetic, and ultrasound)-responsive release. Finally, the challenges and potential future directions for the development of nano-delivery systems are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a post transcriptional regulator of gene expression, microRNAs (miRNA) is closely related to many major human diseases, especially cancer. Therefore, its precise detection is very important for disease diagnosis and treatment. With the advancement of fluorescent dye and imaging technology, the focus has shifted from in vitro miRNA detection to in vivo miRNA imaging. This concept review summarizes signal amplification strategies including DNAzyme catalytic reaction, hybrid chain reaction (HCR), catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) to enhance detection signal of lowly expressed miRNAs; external stimuli of ultraviolet (UV) light or near‐infrared region (NIR) light, and internal stimuli such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP), glutathione (GSH), protease and cell membrane protein to prevent nonspecific activation for the avoidance of false positive signal; and the development of fluorescent probes with emission in NIR for in vivo miRNA imaging; as well as rare earth nanoparticle based the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II) nanoprobes with excellent tissue penetration and depth for in vivo miRNA imaging. The concept review also indicated current challenges for in vivo miRNA imaging including the dynamic monitoring of miRNA expression change and simultaneous in vivo imaging of multiple miRNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why do we act on habit even when we intend to do something else? The answer lies in habit memories, or context-response associations, that form when people repeat rewarding actions in stable contexts. Although habits can form as people pursue goals, once habits develop, the perception of the context directly activates the response in mind. Because habit activation does not depend strongly on motivation, changing intentions has limited impact on habit memory. Instead, successful habit-change interventions directly impact the behavior itself: Along with classic behavior therapy interventions, habits change with (a) reward systems that form new habits, (b) disruption of context cues to forestall activation of the habit in mind, and (c) friction that makes the habitual response difficult and alternatives easier. Despite the strong evidence that habits are activated by contexts, people tend to believe that their own habits are a product of goal pursuit. This subjective reality might also explain why some researchers continue to maintain that habit performance depends on goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jianing Tang,1,2,* Yuexin Luo,1,2,* Qirui Wang,1,2 Juntao Wu,1,2 Yulong Wei1 1Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China; 2First Clinic School, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Yulong Wei, Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China, Email yulongwei_HUST@163.comAbstract: As a major cause of low back pain, intervertebral disc degeneration is an increasingly prevalent chronic disease worldwide that leads to huge annual financial losses. The intervertebral disc consists of the inner nucleus pulposus, outer annulus fibrosus, and sandwiched cartilage endplates. All these factors collectively participate in maintaining the structure and physiological functions of the disc. During the unavoidable degeneration stage, the degenerated discs are surrounded by a harsh microenvironment characterized by acidic, oxidative, inflammatory, and chaotic cytokine expression. Loss of stem cell markers, imbalance of the extracellular matrix, increase in inflammation, sensory hyperinnervation, and vascularization have been considered as the reasons for the progression of intervertebral disc degeneration. The current treatment approaches include conservative therapy and surgery, both of which have drawbacks. Novel stimuli-responsive delivery systems are more promising future therapeutic options than traditional treatments. By combining bioactive agents with specially designed hydrogels, scaffolds, microspheres, and nanoparticles, novel stimuli-responsive delivery systems can realize the targeted and sustained release of drugs, which can both reduce systematic adverse effects and maximize therapeutic efficacy. Trigger factors are categorized into internal (pH, reactive oxygen species, enzymes, etc.) and external stimuli (photo, ultrasound, magnetic, etc.) based on their intrinsic properties. This review systematically summarizes novel stimuli-responsive delivery systems for intervertebral disc degeneration, shedding new light on intervertebral disc therapy.Keywords: stimulus response, delivery system, intervertebral disc degeneration, biomaterial

With the extensive applications of nanomaterials in drug delivery in recent years, nanocarriers with composite polymers, represented by liposomal gels, have been studied for drug delivery for numerous diseases. The drug is loaded inside the liposomal gel and is endowed with specific temperature, pH, enzyme, light, electric field and other stimulating materials; further, the release of the loaded drug is controlled by specific stimuli. Liposomal gels provide better stability for drug formulation and obtaining higher targeting and stimulus responsiveness compared to single nano-drug-loaded materials. Hence, the toxic side effects of drugs can be effectively reduced and the drug delivery efficiency, therapeutic efficacy and safety can be considerably improved. At present, research on liposome gels as drug delivery carriers is still under developing stage, and their advantages as drug carriers will be more useful in practice and become a powerful tool for human beings to cure diseases in the future. In the future studies, the synthesis and stimuli-responsive mechanism of liposomal gels can be further explored to expand their applications in the field of disease treatment and provide more innovative solutions for precision medicine and individualised therapy. This review explores the application of liposome gels with stimuli-responsiveness as drug carriers for treating diseases, the advantages of liposome gels as drug carriers, the methods and principles of their fabrication, the stimuli-responsiveness of liposome gels for targeted release against diseases and its current challenges and opportunities to suggest certain methods and ideas for the development of smarter precision-targeted hybrid nanosystems in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Materiae Compositae Sinica is the property of Acta Materiea Compositae Sinica Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Antibiotic abuse has become a rising public health concern in recent years, leading to dangerous bacteria developing antibiotic resistance to most antibiotic medicines currently in use. Traditional antimicrobial medications have been helpful in the early stages of treating numerous forms of serious bacterial infectious diseases; however, despite the significant therapeutic benefit, there are a number of issues with follow-up treatment. Metal-based nanomaterials, which have properties including the difficulty of establishing drug resistance and the advantages of reduced cytotoxicity, have been considered promising antimicrobial substances. This review discusses the most important types of metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs), such as copper, titanium, zinc oxide, etc., with a focus on the antimicrobial applications of gold- and silver-based nanoparticles. Furthermore, the advanced research progress of MNPs as antimicrobial agents and the stimuli-responsive metal nanoparticle antimicrobial strategies working under photothermal, magnetic, and pH stimulation are also summarized in this article. In general, with the advancement of technology, antimicrobial materials based on MNPs will offer excellent prospects for improving drug resistance and antimicrobial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a coordination trap strategy is proposed for constructing stimulus‐responsive phosphorescent perovskites. Hydroxyl groups are selected as trap groups and introduced into benzylamine hydrochloride of Cd‐based perovskite. The resulting two‐dimensional (2D) perovskite (C7H10NO)2CdCl4·H2O (H1) exhibits blue fluorescence at 405 nm and green phosphorescence at 482 nm under 365 nm excitation. After introducing guest Mn2+, due to the passivation of defects, the doped H1 (H1‐M) achieves orange phosphorescence (λ = 615 nm) of Cd2+. Interestingly, because thermal stimulation induces the coordination of hydroxyl groups with metal ions, H1 and H1‐M are transformed into the zero‐dimensional (0D) perovskite (C7H10NO)2CdCl4 (H2) and doped H2 (H2‐M), respectively. The coordination immobilizes the organic molecules, thus resulting in a large increase in the phosphorescence lifetime and a strong green afterglow of H2. The coordination also transforms the luminescent center of the doped perovskite from the host metal ion of H1‐M to the guest metal ion of H2‐M, achieving red phosphorescence of Mn2+ at 685 nm. Under water vapor, H2 and H2‐M are reversibly converted to H1 and H1‐M, respectively. Based on the above phenomena, a multilevel anti‐counterfeit encryption system with water/heat stimulus‐response is developed, which provides a new idea for the design of stimulus‐responsive phosphorescent intelligent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GIGANTEA (GI) is a conserved nuclear protein crucial for orchestrating the clock-associated feedback loop in the circadian system by integrating light input, modulating gating mechanisms, and regulating circadian clock resetting. It serves as a core component which transmits blue light signals for circadian rhythm resetting and overseeing floral initiation. Beyond circadian functions, GI influences various aspects of plant development (chlorophyll accumulation, hypocotyl elongation, stomatal opening, and anthocyanin metabolism). GI has also been implicated to play a pivotal role in response to stresses such as freezing, thermomorphogenic stresses, salinity, drought, and osmotic stresses. Positioned at the hub of complex genetic networks, GI interacts with hormonal signaling pathways like abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin (GA), salicylic acid (SA), and brassinosteroids (BRs) at multiple regulatory levels. This intricate interplay enables GI to balance stress responses, promoting growth and flowering, and optimize plant productivity. This review delves into the multifaceted roles of GI, supported by genetic and molecular evidence, and recent insights into the dynamic interplay between flowering and stress responses, which enhance plants' adaptability to environmental challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low back pain caused by disc herniation and spinal stenosis imposes an enormous medical burden on society due to its high prevalence and refractory nature. This is mainly due to the long-term inflammation and degradation of the extracellular matrix in the process of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), which manifests as loss of water in the nucleus pulposus (NP) and the formation of fibrous disc fissures. Biomaterial repair strategies involving hydrogels play an important role in the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Excellent biocompatibility, tunable mechanical properties, easy modification, injectability, and the ability to encapsulate drugs, cells, genes, etc. make hydrogels good candidates as scaffolds and cell/drug carriers for treating NP degeneration and other aspects of IVDD. This review first briefly describes the anatomy, pathology, and current treatments of IVDD, and then introduces different types of hydrogels and addresses "smart hydrogels". Finally, we discuss the feasibility and prospects of using hydrogels to treat IVDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Surfactant Detergent & Cosmetics (2097-2806) is the property of China Surfactant Detergent & Cosmetics Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Plastics Science & Technology / Suliao Ke-Ji is the property of Plastics Science & Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A new counterion-induced small-molecule micelle (SM) with surface charge-switchable activities for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections is proposed. The amphiphilic molecule formed by zwitterionic compound and the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP), via a "mild salifying reaction" of the amino and benzoic acid groups, can spontaneously assemble into counterion-induced SMs in water. Through vinyl groups designed on zwitterionic compound, the counterion-induced SMs could be readily cross-linked using mercapto-3, 6-dioxoheptane by click reaction, to create pH-sensitive cross-linked micelles (CSMs). Mercaptosuccinic acid was also decorated on the CSMs (DCSMs) by the same click reaction to afford charge-switchable activities, resulting in CSMs that were biocompatible with red blood cells and mammalian cells in normal tissues (pH 7.4), while having strong retention to negatively charged bacterial surfaces at infection sites, based on electrostatic interaction (pH 5.5). As a result, the DCSMs could penetrate deep into bacterial biofilms and then release drugs in response to the bacterial microenvironment, effectively killing the bacteria in the deeper biofilm. The new DCSMs have several advantages such as robust stability, a high drug loading content (∼ 30%), easy fabrication, and good structural control. Overall, the concept holds promise for the development of new products for clinical application. We fabricated a new counterion-induced small-molecule micelle with surface charge-switchable activities (DCSMs) for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Compared with reported covalent systems, the DCSMs not only have improved stability, high drug loading content (∼ 30%), and good biosafety, but also have the environmental stimuli response, and antibacterial activity of the original drugs. As a result, the DCSMs exhibited enhanced antibacterial activities against MRSA both in vitro and in vivo. Overall, the concept holds promise for the development of new products for clinical application. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofiber scaffolds have emerged as a revolutionary drug delivery platform for promoting wound healing, due to their unique properties, including high surface area, interconnected porosity, excellent breathability, and moisture absorption, as well as their spatial structure which mimics the extracellular matrix. However, the use of nanofibers to achieve controlled drug loading and release still presents many challenges, with ongoing research still exploring how to load drugs onto nanofiber scaffolds without loss of activity and how to control their release in a specific spatiotemporal manner. This comprehensive study systematically reviews the applications and recent advances related to drug-laden nanofiber scaffolds for skin-wound management. First, we introduce commonly used methods for nanofiber preparation, including electrostatic spinning, sol–gel, molecular self-assembly, thermally induced phase separation, and 3D-printing techniques. Next, we summarize the polymers used in the preparation of nanofibers and drug delivery methods utilizing nanofiber scaffolds. We then review the application of drug-loaded nanofiber scaffolds for wound healing, considering the different stages of wound healing in which the drug acts. Finally, we briefly describe stimulus-responsive drug delivery schemes for nanofiber scaffolds, as well as other exciting drug delivery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite recent advances, cancer remains the primary killer on a global scale. Numerous forms of research have been conducted to discover novel and efficient anticancer medications. The complexity of breast cancer is a major challenge which is coupled with patient-to-patient variations and heterogeneity between cells within the tumor. Revolutionary drug delivery is expected to provide a solution to that challenge. Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) have prospects as a revolutionary delivery system capable of enhancing anticancer drug activity and reducing negative impacts on normal cells. The use of smart drug delivery systems (SDDs) as delivering materials to improve the bioactivity of NPs and to understand the intricacies of breast cancer has garnered significant interest. There are many reviews about CSNPs that present various points of view, but they have not yet described a series in cancer therapy from cell uptake to cell death. With this description, we will provide a more complete picture for designing preparations for SDDs. This review describes CSNPs as SDDSs, enhancing cancer therapy targeting and stimulus response using their anticancer mechanism. Multimodal chitosan SDDs as targeting and stimulus response medication delivery will improve therapeutic results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A temperature‐/pH‐responsive hydrogel was successfully prepared by in situ free radical polymerization of N‐isopropyl acrylamide (NIPAm), itaconic acid (IA), and poly (ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate (OEGA). The pore size, mechanical strength, and swelling ratio of the P(NIPAm‐IA‐OEGA) were strongly affected by the contents of IA. 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐Fu) was chosen as a model drug, and the maximum drug loading was 68 mg/g. P(NIPAm‐IA‐OEGA) had a much greater release rate in a simulated intestinal fluid environment (47.73 %, 16 h) than in gastric juice (33.11 %, 16 h). The hemolysis test and cytotoxicity test proved that prepared hydrogel had good biocompatibility. In summary, P(NIPAm‐IA‐OEGA) can be used for oral drug delivery systems in cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-healing coatings have always been the focus of attention in the coating field. After being stimulated by the outside world, the self-healing coating can self-repair the damaged sites in the corrosion micro area, so as to achieve effective protection of the metal material surface. On the basis of comprehensive references at home and abroad, the design and preparation of self-healing coatings on metal surfaces, the research on stimulus response performance and anti-corrosion performance were carried out, and the anti-corrosion mechanism of different types of coatings was summarized and deeply analyzed. The existing problems of self-healing coatings on metal surfaces were pointed out, and future development was prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a novel thermo-responsive microgel with aggregation induced emission (AIE) based on hyperbranched polysiloxane (HBPS) as the AIE-active luminogen, its thermo-responsiveness and application in controlled release of drug is firstly reported. Firstly, HBPS was prepared by transesterification, and then it was copolymerized with N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) to prepare microgel of hyperbranched polysiloxane/poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (HBPS@PNIPAm) by free radical copolymerization. The microstructure of the as-prepared microgel was characterized, and its behavior of drug loading and release was researched by PL with Luteolin as model drug. The results showed that the microgel had the thermo-response enhanced by AIE-active fluorescence with increasing temperature, its fluorescence emission could be adjusted by environmental temperature, or content of Luteolin loaded in the microgel, and the drug loading or release properties of Luteolin could be detected easily by fluorescence spectrum of microgel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SWITCH deficient SUCROSE NONFERMENTING (SWI/SNF) class chromatin remodeling complexes (CRCs) use the energy derived from ATP hydrolysis to facilitate access of proteins to the genomic DNA for transcription, replication, and DNA repair. Uniquely, SWI/SNF CRCs can both slide the histone octamer along the DNA or eject it from the DNA. Given their ability to change the chromatin status quo, SWI/SNF remodelers are critical for cell fate reprogramming with pioneer and other transcription factors, for responses to environmental challenges, and for disease prevention. Recent cryo-electron microscopy and mass spectrometry approaches have uncovered different subtypes of SWI/SNF complexes with unique properties and functions. At the same time, tethering or rapid depletion and inactivation of SWI/SNF have provided novel insight into SWI/SNF requirements for enhancer activity and into balancing chromatin compaction and accessibility in concert with Polycomb complexes. Given their importance, SWI/SNF recruitment to genomic locations by transcription factors and their biochemical activity is tightly controlled. This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of SWI/SNF CRCs in animals and plants and discusses the multiple nuclear and biological roles of SWI/SNF CRCs and how SWI/SNF activity is altered by complex subunit composition, posttranslational modifications, and the chromatin context to support proper development and response to extrinsic cues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A review about classification, characteristics and applications of biomass-based smart hydrogel actuators is presented. • Categories and common preparation processes of biomass-based smart hydrogel actuators are introduced. • Different stimulation responses of biomass-based smart hydrogel actuators are elaborated. • Applications of biomass based smart hydrogel actuators in different aspects are summarized. Due to the characteristics of a large amount of water inside, good softness, and ability to respond to various external stimuli, smart hydrogels have attracted great attention in the field of soft actuates and soft robots, and have a wide range of application prospects in the biomedical field. Biomass materials are biodegradable, renewable, environmentally friendly and non-toxic, and the hydrogels prepared based on biomass materials have typical anisotropy, biocompatibility and biodegradable characteristics, which have become a hot spot for the development of smart actuators. In this review, we briefly classify and introduce biomass-based smart hydrogel actuators, discuss their common actuating modes, and summarize their applications in soft actuators and soft robots. Finally, we discussed the key issues and challenges in the future development of biomass-based hydrogel actuators and made prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contrast to normal tissues and cells, the tumor microenvironment (TME) exhibits distinct physiological attributes, including elevated concentrations of reactive oxygen species and heightened levels of glutathione, as well as lower pH and pronounced hypoxia and abnormal expression of enzymes. Leveraging these distinctive characteristics, a diverse array of responsive nanocarriers can be meticulously engineered. Currently, drug delivery methods employing nanocarriers predominantly fall into three categories: physical encapsulation, intermolecular forces, and chemical bonding, each offering unique advantages. Notably, nanocarriers prepared by chemical synthesis methods enables superior control over drug distribution and release, imparting greater stability and enhanced targeting capabilities to the nanodrug system within the in vivo tumor tissue environment. Herein, this review aims to consolidate the latest advancements in the fields of TME-responsive nanocarriers, categorizing them based on the types of responsiveness, with particular emphasis on chemical bond synthesis, such as (1) pH-responsive chemical bonds: acetal/ketal, imine/hydrazone, anhydride and esters; (2) redox-responsive chemical bonds: disulfide/ diselenium bonds, thioketone bonds and phenylborate bonds; (3) hypoxia-responsive chemical bonds: azo bonds, nitro bonds, quinone. Finally, associated challenges and outline future prospects are discussed. We hoped that this review will serve as a guiding beacon for researchers, propelling the advancement of TME-responsive nanocarriers. [Display omitted] • The strategic chemical synthesis of responsive chemical bonds in the tumor microenvironment are summarized. • Some innovative concepts and design strategies of nanocarriers in the tumor microenvironment are introduced. • Applications of various nanocarriers in the tumor microenvironment are reviewed. • Challenges and outlook of responsive chemical bonds in the tumor microenvironment are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infection is one of the most serious complications harmful to human health, which brings a huge burden to human health. Bone infection is one of the most common and serious complications of fracture and orthopaedic surgery. Antibacterial treatment is the premise of bone defect healing. Among all the antibacterial strategies, irritant antibacterial materials have unique advantages and the ability of targeted therapy. In this review, we focus on the research progress of irritating materials, the development of antibacterial materials and their advantages and disadvantages potential applications in bone infection.

Fabrication of bioinspired intelligent materials with adjustable light, self-shading, and tunable color performances is a significant challenge in the fields of advanced materials. In this work, a liquid crystal nanoparticle actuator (LCNA) with photo-humidity stimuli responses was designed, which was supramolecular self-assembled by the surfactant-assisted method from a functional liquid crystal molecule 2-(3′,3′-dimethyl-6-nitrospiro-[chromene-2,2′-indolin]-1′-yl)-ethyl dodecyl phthalate (EDP-SP). Bionic films containing the LCNA showed adjustable light, self-shading, and color changes in response to environmental light and humidity stimuli. The self-assembled amphiphilic nanoparticles greatly improved the stimuli-responsive sensitivity. A bionic nanoactuator was triggered by multiple supramolecular interactions, such as the rearrangement of liquid crystal molecules, the interactions of intermolecular hydrogen bonds, and the photoisomerization in the nanoparticles. They show excellent dimming and color-changing sensitivity and reversibility in real time. Bionic interfaces containing the self-assembled LCNA attract much interest and have many potential applications in 3D printing, smart textiles, and artificial bionic skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High molecular polymers have been widely studied and applied in the field of enhanced oil recovery (EOR). At present, the focus of research has been changed to the design of polymer networks with unique properties such as anti-temperature and anti-salinity, good injection and so on. Supramolecular polymers have high viscoelasticity as well as excellent temperature, salt resistance and injection properties. Can supramolecular polymers become another material choice for polymer flooding to enhance oil recovery? The present review aims to systematically introduce supramolecular polymers, including its design strategy, interactions and rheological properties, and address three main concerns: (1) Why choose supramolecular polymers? (2) How do we synthesize and characterize supramolecular polymers in the field of oilfield chemistry? (3) What has been the application progress of supramolecular polymers in improving oil recovery? The introduction of a supramolecular interaction system provides a new idea for polymer flooding and opens up a new research direction to improve oil recovery. Aiming at the "reversible dynamic" supramolecular polymers, the supramolecular polymers are compared with the conventional covalent macromolecular polymer networks, and the challenges and future research directions of supramolecular polymers in EOR are discussed. Finally, the author's viewpoints and perspectives in this emerging field are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research status and future development trend of four stimulus responsive organic fluorescent color changing materials were reviewed and analyzed in this review, including ion-responsive fluorescent chromotropic materials, photochromic materials, mechanofluorochromic materials and temperature-responsive fluorescent chromotropic materials. The research and development of fast response multi stimulus response fluorescent materials and the design and preparation of different forms of polymer based fluorescent chromotropic materials will be the mainstream of this field in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Can machine learning crack the code in the nose? Over the past decade, studies tried to solve the relation between chemical structure and sensory quality with Big Data. These studies advanced computational models of the olfactory stimulus, utilizing artificial intelligence to mine for clear correlations between chemistry and psychophysics. Computational perspectives promised to solve the mystery of olfaction with more data and better data processing tools. None of them succeeded, however, and it matters as to why this is the case. This article argues that we should be deeply skeptical about the trend to black-box the sensory system's biology in our theories of perception. Instead, we need to ground both stimulus models and psychophysical data on real causal-mechanistic explanations of the olfactory system. The central question is: Would knowledge of biology lead to a better understanding of the stimulus in odor coding than the one utilized in current machine learning models? That is indeed the case. Recent studies about receptor behavior have revealed that the olfactory system operates by principles not captured in current stimulusresponse models. This may require a fundamental revision of computational approaches to olfaction, including its psychological effects. To analyze the different research programs in olfaction, we draw on Lloyd's "Logic of Research Questions," a philosophical framework which assists scientists in explicating the reasoning, conceptual commitments, and problems of a modeling approach in question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-inspired in nature, using nanomaterials to fabricate the vivid bionic structural color and intelligent stimulus responsive interface as smart skin or optical devices are widely concerned and remain a huge challenge. Here, the bionic flexible film is designed and fabricated with chiral nanointerface and tunable hydrophilic-hydrophobic by the ultrasonic energy perturbation strategy and crosslinking of the cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). An intelligent nanointerface with adjustable hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties is constructed by the supramolecular assembly using a smart ionic liquid molecule. The bionic flexible film possessed the variable hydrophilic-hydrophobic, stimulus responsive, and robust iridescent structural color. The reflective wavelength and the helical pitch of the film can be easily modulated through the ultrasonic energy perturbation strategy. The bionic flexible film by covalent cross-linking has excellent robustness, good elasticity and flexibility. The tunable brilliant structural color of the chiral nanointerface is attributed to the surface charge change of the CNC photonic crystal, which is disturbed by ultrasonic energy perturbation. The bionic flexible film with tunable structure color has intelligent hydrophilic and hydrophobic stimulus response properties. The chiral bionic materials have potential applications in smart skin, optical devices, bionic materials, robots, anti-counterfeiting, colorful displays, and stealth materials., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Can machine learning crack the code in the nose? Over the past decade, studies tried to solve the relation between chemical structure and sensory quality with Big Data. These studies advanced computational models of the olfactory stimulus, utilizing artificial intelligence to mine for clear correlations between chemistry and psychophysics. Computational perspectives promised to solve the mystery of olfaction with more data and better data processing tools. None of them succeeded, however, and it matters as to why this is the case. This article argues that we should be deeply skeptical about the trend to black-box the sensory system’s biology in our theories of perception. Instead, we need to ground both stimulus models and psychophysical data on real causal-mechanistic explanations of the olfactory system. The central question is: Would knowledge of biology lead to a better understanding of the stimulus in odor coding than the one utilized in current machine learning models? That is indeed the case. Recent studies about receptor behavior have revealed that the olfactory system operates by principles not captured in current stimulus-response models. This may require a fundamental revision of computational approaches to olfaction, including its psychological effects. To analyze the different research programs in olfaction, we draw on Lloyd’s “Logic of Research Questions,” a philosophical framework which assists scientists in explicating the reasoning, conceptual commitments, and problems of a modeling approach in question.

Nanofiber scaffolds have emerged as a revolutionary drug delivery platform for promoting wound healing, due to their unique properties, including high surface area, interconnected porosity, excellent breathability, and moisture absorption, as well as their spatial structure which mimics the extracellular matrix. However, the use of nanofibers to achieve controlled drug loading and release still presents many challenges, with ongoing research still exploring how to load drugs onto nanofiber scaffolds without loss of activity and how to control their release in a specific spatiotemporal manner. This comprehensive study systematically reviews the applications and recent advances related to drug-laden nanofiber scaffolds for skin-wound management. First, we introduce commonly used methods for nanofiber preparation, including electrostatic spinning, sol–gel, molecular self-assembly, thermally induced phase separation, and 3D-printing techniques. Next, we summarize the polymers used in the preparation of nanofibers and drug delivery methods utilizing nanofiber scaffolds. We then review the application of drug-loaded nanofiber scaffolds for wound healing, considering the different stages of wound healing in which the drug acts. Finally, we briefly describe stimulus-responsive drug delivery schemes for nanofiber scaffolds, as well as other exciting drug delivery systems.

Materials exhibiting ultralong luminescent lifetime show promising applications in the fields of information encryption, sensing, and bioimaging. Herein, we present a low‐cost and general strategy to achieve stimulus‐responsive ultralong organic phosphorescence (UOP) based on pyrene chromophores doped into polymer matrices. The UOP of the resulted systems presents radiation‐, concentration‐, time‐, and excitation‐dependent characteristics. The UOP color can be turned from blue to red by changing the excitation wavelength or the concentration of chromophores. Experimental results prove that these characteristics are attributed to the consumption of triplet oxygen and the different aggregation states of chromophores in the polymer matrices. Finally, we demonstrate that these systems could be applied for multilevel information encryption. This work would promote further development of multi‐responsive long‐lived luminescent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Chemo-mechanical-optical sensing approach for the detection of hexagonal chromium (Cr6+) metal ion is demonstrated. A new sensor head is designed by epoxying fiber Bragg grating (FBG) on a thin silicon membrane beneath which a Chromium (VI) responsive hydrogel is embedded. When the gel is exposed to chromium spiked solutions, it suffers a volume change due to its stimulus responsive property and deforms a silicon membrane which in turn causes a wavelength peak shift of FBG. Hydrogel synthesized from the blends of (3-Acrylamidopropyl)—trimethylammonium chloride is used for the purpose. The relation between FBG peak shifts with change in volume of hydrogel due to it swelling is experimentally established. The FBG wavelength peak shift is directly correlated with the concentration of the Cr (VI) metal ion. The estimated sensitivity and resolution of the sensor are 0.1 nm/ppb with a limit of detection of the sensor is 0.75 ppb. The sensor has demonstrated good sensitivity, selectivity, and repeatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its highly conjugated panel-like structure and unique photophysical and chemical features, anthracene has been widely used for fabricating attractive and functional supramolecular assemblies, including two-dimensional metallacycles and three-dimensional metallacages. The embedded anthracenes in these assemblies often show synergistic effects on enhancing the desired supramolecular and luminescent properties. This review focuses on the metallasupramolecular architectures with anthracene-containing building blocks, as well as their applications in host-guest chemistry, stimulus response, molecular sensing, light harvesting, and biomedical science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis methods, slow release mechanism, properties and applications of hydrogels for pesticide encapsulation were reviewed in this paper. [Display omitted] Hydrogels have attracted much attention due to their high water retention, biocompatibility and degradability. In the field of agriculture, the use of hydrogels as pesticide carriers not only effectively reduces the amount of pesticides used but also prolongs the duration of their effective action on crops. Furthermore, by choosing types of polymers in hydrogels and adjusting designs of hydrogel structure and chemical characteristics in a rational manner, targeted functionalities and properties can be endowed in the field of agriculture. In this paper, the types and preparation methods of the hydrogel for encapsulating pesticides are introduced first, and the methods of encapsulating pesticides in the hydrogel are classified. After that, we discussed various mechanisms of hydrogel release loads and relevant release kinetic. Finally, correlative properties for pesticide encapsulation and the effects of hydrogel on different sites are also involved. We hope it can provide reference for researchers in related fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that proinflammatory cytokines correlate with knee loading mechanics during gait following a mechanical walking stimulus in subjects 2 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Elevated systemic levels of proinflammatory cytokines can be sustained for years after injury. Considering roughly 50% of these patients progress to Osteoarthritis 10–15 years after injury, a better understanding of the role of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α and Interleukin-1β on Osteoarthritis risk is needed. Serum proinflammatory cytokines concentrations were measured in 21 subjects 2 years after unilateral ACLR from blood drawn at rest and 3.5 h after 30 min of walking. An optoelectronic system and a force plate measured subjects' knee kinetics. Correlations were tested between inflammatory marker response and knee extension and knee adduction moments. Changes in proinflammatory cytokines due to mechanical stimulus were correlated (R = 0.86) and showed substantial variation between subjects in both cytokines at 3.5 h post-walk. Knee loading correlated with 3.5-h changes in tumor necrosis factor-α concentration (Knee extension moment: R = -0.5, Knee adduction moment: R = -0.5) and Interleukin-1β concentration (Knee extension moment: R = -0.44). However, no significant changes in concentrations were observed in tumor necrosis factor-α and Interleukin-1β when comparing baseline and post walking stimulus conditions. The significant associations between changes in serum proinflammatory markers following a mechanical stimulus and gait metrics in subjects at risk for developing Osteoarthritis underscore the importance of investigating the interaction between biomarkers and biomechanical factors in Osteoarthritis development. • Proinflammatory cytokine correlate post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. • Elevated cytokine levels persist years after anterior cruciate ligament injury. • Knee loading is linked to blood biomarker concentrations post walking. • Interaction between inflammation and mechanics in Osteoarthritis. • Gait metrics and inflammatory responses help identify Osteoarthritis risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite recent advances, cancer remains the primary killer on a global scale. Numerous forms of research have been conducted to discover novel and efficient anticancer medications. The complexity of breast cancer is a major challenge which is coupled with patient-to-patient variations and heterogeneity between cells within the tumor. Revolutionary drug delivery is expected to provide a solution to that challenge. Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) have prospects as a revolutionary delivery system capable of enhancing anticancer drug activity and reducing negative impacts on normal cells. The use of smart drug delivery systems (SDDs) as delivering materials to improve the bioactivity of NPs and to understand the intricacies of breast cancer has garnered significant interest. There are many reviews about CSNPs that present various points of view, but they have not yet described a series in cancer therapy from cell uptake to cell death. With this description, we will provide a more complete picture for designing preparations for SDDs. This review describes CSNPs as SDDSs, enhancing cancer therapy targeting and stimulus response using their anticancer mechanism. Multimodal chitosan SDDs as targeting and stimulus response medication delivery will improve therapeutic results.

Polymers are at the core of emerging flexible sensor and soft actuator technology. Ideal candidates not only respond to external stimuli but also have programmable response intensity and speed. Incorporating dynamic interactions into polymers has been widely studied. However, most research has focused on synthesis methods and on optical and mechanical effects of these interactions. Here, a new and tunable method of enabling environmentally adaptive polymers are introduced. Specifically, polar functionalities are "hidden" within polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). When unveiled, these polar functionalities change the hydrophilicity of the polymer. Water is the stimulus that triggers the exposure of polar functionalities by disrupting interfacial equilibrium and driving surface reconstruction. This reversible adaptation is governed by the dynamics of a metal–ligand coordinated polymer, and therefore can be easily tailored by the choice of network structure, metal cations, and counter anions. PDMS is a particularly exciting polymer for this functionality because of the negative consequences of its intrinsically high hydrophobicity in many applications. However, this design concept is applicable to a wide range of polymers and can be expanded to other dynamic interactions such as reversible covalent bonding, hydrogen bonding, and ionic bonding, to empower programmable responsive functionality and therefore enhance material performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spider silks exhibit excellent mechanical properties and have promising application prospects in engineering fields. Because natural spider silk fibers cannot be manufactured on a large scale, researchers have attempted to fabricate bio-inspired spider silks. However, the fabrication of bio-inspired spider silks with dynamically tunable mechanical properties and stimulation–response characteristics remains a challenge. Herein, the 4D printing of shape memory polyurethane is employed to produce dynamic bio-inspired spider silks. The bio-inspired spider silks have two types of energy-absorbing units that can be adjusted, one by means of 4D printing with predefined nodes, and the other through different stimulation methods to make the bio-inspired spider silks contract and undergo spiral deformation. The shape morphing behaviors of bio-inspired spider silks are programmed via pre-stress assemblies enabled by 4D printing. The energy-absorbing units of bio-inspired spider silks can be dynamically adjusted owing to stress release generated with the stimuli of temperature or humidity. Therefore, the mechanical properties of bio-inspired spider silks can be controlled to change dynamically. This can further help in developing applications of bio-inspired spider silks in engineering fields with dynamic changes of environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consisting of brief and evocative scenarios, vignettes effectively elicit stimulus responses, examine individual cognitions, and explore novel or sensitive topics. While information and communication technologies have expanded research methods, methodological and ethical considerations for design and implementation of digital vignettes necessitate further attention. This paper considers adaptation of the vignette method to internet-based data collection – particularly with stigmatized and digitally-engaged populations. Critical to vignettes is reproduction of stimuli to elicit realistic responses to particular conditions. For digital vignettes, this includes successful replication of the digital milieu. This paper presents an illustrative example of a digital vignette scenario simulating social media in a mixed-methods, online survey study with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other sexual and/or gender minority (LGBTQIA+) youth (age 14–24). While digital vignettes may be an effective and appropriate social science research method, numerous methodological and ethical challenges must be considered prior to implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multifunctional phototheranostic nanoplatform based on polydopamine-manganese dioxide-IR780 iodide was reported for effective magnetic resonance imaging-guided synergistic photodynamic/photothermal therapy. [Display omitted] Multifunctional phototheranostics combining diagnostic and therapeutic modalities may provide a revolutionary opportunity for cancer treatment. As a promising tumor phototheranostic molecule, IR780 iodide (IR780) shows excellent photodynamic and photothermal performance under near-infrared laser irradiation; however, its hydrophobicity and instability limit its further use in organisms. This work demonstrates the design and development of a multifunctional nanoplatform (PMIDA, referring to polydopamine (PDA)-manganese dioxide (MnO 2)-IR780) for imaging-guided phototherapy. The good biocompatibility of PDA greatly improves the water solubility and photostability of IR780, and its excellent photothermal properties make PMIDA a dual photothermal therapy (PTT). MnO 2 -induced generation of oxygen in the tumor microenvironment improves the hypoxia effect and photodynamic therapy (PDT) of IR780. Moreover, Mn2+ serves as a decent T 1 -weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) probe to guide treatment. Notably, in relevant cellular assays, PMIDA shows high photodynamic and photothermal effects contributing to the final therapeutic effect. The MRI-guided PDT/PTT synergistic therapy effect in vivo is demonstrated by precise tumor diagnosis and complete tumor elimination outcomes. Based on these experiments, PMIDA nanoparticles display promising effects in facilitating intravenous injection of IR780 and achieving magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided phototheranostic efficacy for tumor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, considerable achievements have been made with the advancements of smart structures, which are known for their controlled deformation, self‐repair, and sensing characteristics. Such capabilities have significant potential in the field of bionics. 3D printing methods have revolutionized the high‐resolution integrated manufacturing of complex smart structures, resulting in new types of soft robots, actuators, wearable flexible electronics, and biomedical equipment. There is therefore a need for academia and industry to receive an update on the status of these tools. For this reason, herein, a comprehensive overview of the latest progress in printing methods, materials, and applications of various smart structures is provided. Temperature‐ and electromagnetic‐responsive smart structures are highlighted, in addition to self‐healing and smart‐sensing devices. Current exigencies and future development trends of 3D printing methods and smart structures are also summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Multicomponent supramolecular hydrogels are promising scaffolds for applications in biosensors and controlled drug release due to their designer stimulus responsiveness. To achieve rational construction of multicomponent supramolecular hydrogel systems, their in‐depth structural analysis is essential but still challenging. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) has emerged as a powerful tool for structural analysis of multicomponent supramolecular hydrogels. CLSM imaging enables real‐time observation of the hydrogels without the need of drying and/or freezing to elucidate their static and dynamic properties. Through multiple, selective fluorescent staining of materials of interest, multiple domains formed in supramolecular hydrogels (e. g. inorganic materials and self‐sorting nanofibers) can also be visualized. CLSM and the related microscopic techniques will be indispensable to investigate complex life‐inspired supramolecular chemical systems.

Recently, considerable achievements have been made with the advancements of smart structures, which are known for their controlled deformation, self‐repair, and sensing characteristics. Such capabilities have significant potential in the field of bionics. 3D printing methods have revolutionized the high‐resolution integrated manufacturing of complex smart structures, resulting in new types of soft robots, actuators, wearable flexible electronics, and biomedical equipment. There is therefore a need for academia and industry to receive an update on the status of these tools. For this reason, herein, a comprehensive overview of the latest progress in printing methods, materials, and applications of various smart structures is provided. Temperature‐ and electromagnetic‐responsive smart structures are highlighted, in addition to self‐healing and smart‐sensing devices. Current exigencies and future development trends of 3D printing methods and smart structures are also summarized.

Oral ulcers are one of the most common oral diseases in clinical practice. Its etiology is complex and varied. Due to the dynamic nature of the oral environment, the wound surface is painful due to contact and wear, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. Oral ulcers are often treated with topical drug therapy. Studies have shown that functional hydrogels play a positive role in promoting wound healing, showing unique advantages in wound dressings. In this paper, the causes and healing characteristics of oral ulcers are discussed in depth, and then the common treatment methods for oral ulcers are summarized and compared. Finally, the potential of functional hydrogels in the treatment of oral ulcers is discussed and projected through a review of the literature in recent years., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Liposomes are widely used in the biological field due to their good biocompatibility and surface modification properties. With the development of biochemistry and material science, many liposome structures and their surface functional components have been modified and optimized one by one, pushing the liposome platform from traditional to functionalized and intelligent, which will better satisfy and expand the needs of scientific research. However, a main limiting factor effecting the efficiency of liposomes is the complicated environmental conditions in the living body. Currently, in order to overcome the above problem, functionalized liposomes have become a very promising strategy. In this paper, binding strategies of liposomes with four main functional elements, namely nucleic acids, antibodies, peptides, and stimuli-responsive motif have been summarized for the first time. In addition, based on the construction characteristics of functionalized liposomes, such as drug-carrying, targeting, long-circulating, and stimulus-responsive properties, a comprehensive overview of their features and respective research progress are presented. Finally, the paper critically presents the limitations of these functionalized liposomes in the current applications and also prospectively suggests the future development directions, aiming to accelerate realization of their industrialization., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

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Nano drug delivery systems have attracted researchers' growing attention and are gradually emerging into the public views. More and more nano-formulations are being approved for marketing or clinical use, representing the field's booming development. Copolymer self-assembly systems such as micelles, nanoparticles, polymersomes occupy a prominent position in the field of nano-drug delivery carriers. Among them, polymersomes, unlike micelles or nanoparticles, resemble liposomes' structure and possess large internal hollow hydrophilic reservoirs, allowing them to carry hydrophilic drugs. Nevertheless, their insufficient drug loading efficiency and unruly self-assembly morphology have somewhat constrained their applications. Especially for the delivery of biomacromolecule such as peptides, the encapsulation efficiency is always considered to be a formidable obstacle, even if the enormous hydrophilic core would render the polymersomes to have considerable potential in this regard. Reassuringly, the emergence of asymmetric polymersomes holds the prospect of solving this problem. With the development of synthetic technology and a deeper understanding of the self-assembly process, the asymmetric polymersomes which are with different inner and outer shell composition have been gradually recognized by researchers. It has made possible elevated drug loading, more controllable assembly processes and release performance. The internal hydrophilic blocks different from the outer shell could be engineered to have a more remarkable affinity to the cargos or could contain a non-watery aqueous phase to enable the thermodynamically preferred encapsulation of cargos, which would allow for a substantial improvement in drug encapsulation efficiency compared to the conventional approach. In this paper, we aim to deepen the understanding to asymmetric polymersomes and lay the foundation for the development of this field by describing four main elements: the mechanism of their preparation and asymmetric membrane formation process, the characterization of asymmetric membranes, the efficient drug loading, and the special stimulus-responsive release mechanism. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High molecular polymers have been widely studied and applied in the field of enhanced oil recovery (EOR). At present, the focus of research has been changed to the design of polymer networks with unique properties such as anti-temperature and anti-salinity, good injection and so on. Supramolecular polymers have high viscoelasticity as well as excellent temperature, salt resistance and injection properties. Can supramolecular polymers become another material choice for polymer flooding to enhance oil recovery? The present review aims to systematically introduce supramolecular polymers, including its design strategy, interactions and rheological properties, and address three main concerns: (1) Why choose supramolecular polymers? (2) How do we synthesize and characterize supramolecular polymers in the field of oilfield chemistry? (3) What has been the application progress of supramolecular polymers in improving oil recovery? The introduction of a supramolecular interaction system provides a new idea for polymer flooding and opens up a new research direction to improve oil recovery. Aiming at the “reversible dynamic” supramolecular polymers, the supramolecular polymers are compared with the conventional covalent macromolecular polymer networks, and the challenges and future research directions of supramolecular polymers in EOR are discussed. Finally, the author’s viewpoints and perspectives in this emerging field are discussed.