Lower Limit Research Articles

Gold-enhanced aptasensors for highly sensitive dengue detection: a cost-effective approach

The reemergence of diseases such as Dengue has spurred the development of efficient biosensing devices. This study aims to establish a rapid, cost-effective, and efficient platform for Dengue detection. The surface of the sensor was constructed by sputtering gold onto fluorine-doped tin oxide thin films, that were previously deposited on glass substrates. Varied sputtering deposition times were used. Results obtained from X-Ray Diffraction analysis showed that the films with 4-minute deposition time had the best gold surface coverage and the best cost-benefit ratio for sensor fabrication. Subsequently, the gold thin films were functionalized with the co-immobilization of a self-organized monolayer of aptamers and 6-mercapto-1-hexanol (MCH). The monolayer was analysed using the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique, and the ratio of 1:25 (aptamer: total thiol) was determined for surface optimization. The performance of the aptasensor was tested for the detection of the non-structural protein 1 of Dengue serotype 4 (NS1-S4). A good sensitivity of 40.2 ± 3.7 % per decade and a low detection limit of 1.25 pg/mL were obtained. The development of this platform represents an advance in the fast fabrication of aptasensors for the detection of emerging diseases such as Dengue, contributing also to the miniaturization process of point-of-care devices.

A Metal-Organic Framework-Based Colorimetric Sensor Array for Transcutaneous CO2 Monitoring via Lensless Imaging

Transcutaneous carbon dioxide (TcPCO2) monitoring provides a non-invasive alternative to measuring arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2), making it valuable for various applications, such as sleep diagnostics and neonatal care. However, traditional transcutaneous monitors are bulky, expensive, and pose risks such as skin burns. To address these limitations, we have introduced a compact, cost-effective CMOS imager-based sensor for TcPCO2 detection by utilizing colorimetric reactions with metal–organic framework (MOF)-based nano-hybrid materials. The sensor, with a colorimetric sensing array fabricated on an ultrathin PDMS membrane and then adhered to the CMOS imager surface, can record real-time sensing data through image processing without the need for additional optical components, which significantly reduces the sensor’s size. Our system shows impressive sensitivity and selectivity, with a low detection limit of 26 ppm, a broad detection range of 0–2% CO2, and strong resistance to interference from common skin gases. Feasibility tests on human subjects demonstrate the potential of this MOF-CMOS imager-based colorimetric sensor for clinical applications. Additionally, its compact design and responsiveness make it suitable for sports and exercise settings, offering valuable insights into respiratory function and performance. The sensing system’s compact size, low cost, and reversible and highly sensitive TcPCO2 monitoring capability make it ideal for integration into wearable devices for remote health tracking.

Highly conductive and sensitive alginate hydrogel strain sensors fabricated using near-field electrohydrodynamic direct-writing process

Hydrogel flexible sensors have attracted considerable attention because of their wearability, biocompatibility, and precision signal transmission capability. However, the hydrogel strain sensors fabricated by conventional printing or hand-injection methods have difficulty balancing their mechanical strength and sensing characteristics, limiting the application of hydrogel strain sensors. Herein, polyvinyl alcohol and polyacrylamide were loosely crosslinked with sodium alginate through chemical cross-linking. Subsequently, MXene nanosheets were introduced for doping, the crosslinked hydrogel conductive network was constructed, and the hydrogel strain sensors were fabricated using the electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing method. The ions in the EHD-printed hydrogel undergo directional movement under an externally enhanced electric field, causing the formation of more uniform and dense porous conductive networks inside the hydrogel, and high electrical conductivity (0.49 S m−1) is obtained. These hydrogel strain sensors have excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength: 0.17 MPa at 787 % strain), high sensitivity (gauge factor: 1.54 at 0–100 % strain), and low detection limits (1 % strain). Furthermore, demonstrations of real-time Morse code tapping information transmission, handwriting recognition during writing, and human physiological behavior monitoring demonstrations using the fabricated sensors indicate that the EHD-printed hydrogel strain sensor method has significant potential for wearable devices and human-computer interaction applications.

VALUE OF AMINOTRANSFERASES IN LIVER CIRRHOSIS

Aim: To ditermine values of ASAT and ALAT and their ratio in different stages of liver cirrhosis. Material and methods: A retrospective study was conducted, including patients with newly diagnosed liver cirrhosis from 01.01. 2017 to 31.12. 2021. Of all, 258 (71%) were men and 103 (29%) were women. The mean age of the study population was 57±11.4 years, with alcohol as the leading etiology in 262 (72.6%) of all cases. AT were measured at an upper reference limit of 40UI/ml. All were staged by Child-Pough and MELD Na score. IBM SPSS 26 and Excel statistics for data processing were used at a significant level of p< 0.05. Results: Of all 361 individuals, normal AT were measured at 89 (24.7%), at 96 (25.76%) only with normal ASAT and at 233 (66.77%) only with normal ALAT. The mean value of ASAT increases significantly depending on the Child stage (p=.004) and is close to the significance of MELD Na (p=.036). Mean ALAT values were minimal to moderately elevated, with no significant association with them (p=.647, p=.020). 90% of individuals had an ASAT/ALAT ratio above 1, which showed substantial dependence on Child and MELD Na (p=.000, p=.000). A ratio above 2 was found at 194 (53.7%) mainly in Child C, which was associated with alcohol etiology. Conclusion: The absolute values of ASAT and ALAT have no relationship with the severity of liver cirrhosis, unlike their ratio, which significantly increases.

Reply to Comment on “Singh R, Vadlamani R, Bajpai S & Maurya AS (2024) Strontium Isotope Stratigraphy of Marine Oligocene–Miocene Sedimentary Successions of Kutch Basin, Western India. Geological Journal, 1–20. DOI: 10.1002/gj.4961”

ABSTRACTThis response addresses the comments made by Saraswati et al. on our recent publication in Geological Journal. In our study, we used a multi‐analytical screening approach, including visual, XRD and trace element analysis, to evaluate diagenetic alteration of carbonate shell samples. Contrary to the claims made by Saraswati et al. our findings are based on well‐preserved samples with minimal alteration. The Sr‐isotope data from the Khari Nadi Formation (23.07–18.09 Ma) are largely consistent with existing biostratigraphic constraints, but suggest a possible extension of the upper age limit into the Burdigalian. Our Sr‐isotope ages for the Chhasra Formation (15.11–12.29 Ma) are younger than those suggested previously, based on larger benthic foraminifers, but largely corroborate recent nannoplankton data. As a result of the new age data from Kutch, we suggest that the sedimentation rates, derived from multiple samples, increased significantly from the Oligocene to Miocene. We assert that ‘established’ ages are also subject to refinements as the rock units become amenable to new dating techniques. We welcome any criticism that is constructive, and remain open to any further data that could refine or challenge our interpretations.

Fabrication of a novel mixed-valent copper-based coordination polymer as a fluorescent sensor for selective and efficient detection of multiple analytes

A novel three-dimensional fluorescent mixed-valent copper-based coordination polymer (CP), namely {[CuICuII4(triazol)6(bpta)2]Cl}n (Cu-CP), was synthesized hydrothermally in the presence of Cu(II) ion, 2,4,6-tri(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)-1,3,5-triazine (TTT), and 2,2′,4,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic acid (H4bpta). The structure of the Cu-CP was studied using single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). Interestingly, the crystallographic data revealed that a part of Cu(II) ions were reduced in situ to Cu(I) ions as well as the nitrogen-containing ligand TTT was converted to triazol, which possessed excellent fluorescence characteristics as a transition metal ion with a d10 electronic configuration, prompting further investigation into the fluorescence sensing properties of Cu-CP. The results confirmed that Cu-CP exhibited excellent fluorescence performance which an outstanding candidate as a fluorescence sensor for Fe3+, Cr2O72−, CrO42−, MnO4− and nitrobenzene (NB), with a low limit of detection. For ethylene glycol (EG) detection, Cu-CP showed high-efficiency fluorescence enhancement across a range of temperatures. The underlying mechanism of fluorescence enhancement was investigated through comprehensive experimental studies.

Comparison of denture space and patient satisfaction for neutral zone versus standard-designed digital dentures restoring mandibular resorbed ridges: A crossover randomized clinical trial.

To compare neutral-zone-designed and standard-designed digital complete dentures used to restore severely resorbed ridges through differential digital analysis of teeth arrangement position, shape of the polished surface, and assessment of patient satisfaction. This study applied a within-subject comparison of two denture forms: computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) dentures designed based on the bone-support concept (control group) and CAD-CAM dentures designed based on the neutral-zone concept (test group). Twelve completely edentulous patients exhibiting advanced ridge atrophy were recruited, and they were randomly assigned to use one of the two dentures before the other. A comparison between the two groups' virtual denture confines was conducted using "Medit compare" digital software. The average values of three-dimensional deviations between the two dentures at different regions were calculated. The "patient denture assessment" questionnaire was used to gauge participants' satisfaction with their dentures. The obtained scores were used to compare the two denture types. The position of the neutral zone was significantly shifted at the level of both denture teeth and denture base outer limits (p = 0.001). The greatest deviation was calculated at the region of the palatal polished surface followed by lingual flange contours, while the buccal flanges displayed the least deviations (p≤0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed between patients' satisfaction with neutral zone and standard dentures regarding function and comfort, retention, and stability of lower dentures (p≤0.05). CAD-CAM neutral-zone dentures have distinctly different anatomical confines that can be clinically correlated to their better impact on patient acceptance.

The SRG/eROSITA All-Sky Survey. Constraints on f(R) gravity from cluster abundances

The evolution of the cluster mass function traces the growth of the linear density perturbations and can be utilized to constrain the parameters of cosmological and alternative gravity models. In this context, we present new constraints on potential deviations from general relativity by investigating the Hu-Sawicki parametrization of the $f(R)$ gravity with the first Spectrum Roentgen Gamma (SRG)/ All-Sky Survey ( cluster catalog in the western Galactic hemisphere in combination with the overlapping Dark Energy Survey Year-3, KiloDegree Survey, and Hyper Suprime-Cam data for weak lensing mass calibration. For the first time, we present constraints obtained from cluster abundances only. When we consider massless neutrinos, we find a strict upper limit of $ f_ R0 | < -4.31$ at a 95<!PCT!> confidence level. Massive neutrinos suppress structure growth at small scales, and thus have the opposite effect of $f(R)$ gravity. We consequently investigate the joint fit of the mass of the neutrinos with the modified gravity parameter. We obtain $ f_ R0 | < -4.08$ jointly with $ m_ eV $ at a 95<!PCT!> confidence level, which is tighter than the limits in the literature utilizing cluster counts only. At $ f_ R0 |= - 6$, the number of clusters is not significantly changed by the theory. Consequently, we do not find any statistical deviation from general relativity in the study of eRASS1 cluster abundance. Deeper surveys with eROSITA, increasing the number of detected clusters, will further improve constraints on $ |f_ R0 |$ and investigate alternative gravity theories.

Home-based guidance training system with interactive visual feedback using kinect on stroke survivors with moderate to severe motor impairment

The home-based training approach benefits stroke survivors by providing them with an increased amount of training time and greater feasibility in terms of their training schedule, particularly for those with severe motor impairment. Computer-guided training systems provide visual feedback with correct movement patterns during home-based training. This study aimed to investigate the improvement in motor performance among stroke survivors with moderate to severe motor impairment after 800 min of training using a home-based guidance training system with interactive visual feedback. Twelve patients with moderate to severe stroke underwent home-based training, totaling 800 min (20–40 min per session, with a frequency of 3 sessions per week). The home-based guidance training system uses Kinect to reconstruct the 3D human body skeletal model and provides real-time motor feedback during training. The training exercises consisted of six core exercises and eleven optional exercises, including joint exercises, balance control, and coordination. Pre-training and post-training assessments were conducted using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Limb (FMA-UE), Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Lower Limb (FMA-LE), Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Barthel Index (BI), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), as well as kinematic data of joint angles and center of mass (COM). The results indicated that motor training led to the attainment of the upper limit of functional range of motion (FROM) in hip abduction, shoulder flexion, and shoulder abduction. However, there was no improvement in the active range of motion (AROM) in the upper extremity (U/E) and lower extremity (L/E) joints, reaching the level of the older healthy population. Significant improvements were observed in both left/right and superior/inferior displacements, as well as body sway in the mediolateral axis of the COM, after 800 min of training. In conclusion, the home-based guidance system using Kinect aids in improving joint kinematics performance at the level of FROM and balance control, accompanied by increased mediolateral body sway of the COM for stroke survivors with moderate to severe stroke. Additionally, spasticity was reduced in both the upper and lower extremities after 800 min of home-based training.

MIC trends of vancomycin and teicoplanin among methicillin resistant CoNS isolates from new born blood cultures in a tertiary care centre in Southern India

Background and Objectives: Coagulase-negative-Staphylococci (CoNS) are important etiological agent of bacteraemia in newborn babies. Methicillin resistant CoNS infections have only limited treatment options. The antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Methicillin Resistant CoNS isolates from newborn blood cultures was studied with special reference to MICs of Vancomycin and Teicoplanin. Materials and Methods: The study population included Methicillin Resistant Coagulase Negative Staphylococcal isolates (MRCoNS) from newborn blood cultures, during a one-year period. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Vanco- mycin and Teicoplanin in Methicillin resistant CoNS isolates was determined by macrobroth dilution method as per CLSI guidelines and by automated methods. Results: Coagulase Negative Staphylococci were the etiological agent in 73.7% (n=56) cases of neonatal bacteremia. Meth- icillin resistance in newborn CoNS was found to be 58.9%. All the MRCoNS isolates had vancomycin and teicoplanin MICs in the susceptible range. There were MRCoNS isolates with MICs in the upper limit of susceptible range for both vancomy- cin and teicoplanin, which can result in poor clinical response. Conclusion: Continuous large scale multi-centre surveillance studies with special attention to study the MIC pattern of the high-end anti-MRSA agents like vancomycin, teicoplanin, linezolid are to be carried out. This will help the clinicians to judiciously prescribe the antibiotics, which is very essential for antimicrobial stewardship.

Comparison of the analgesic effects of infraspinatus-teres minor interfascial block and interscalene block under ultrasound guidance in patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery

Objective: To compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy of ultrasound-guided infraspinatus-teres minor interfascial block and interscalene block in shoulder arthroscopic surgery. Methods: A total of 74 patients undergoing shoulder arthroscopic surgery at the Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University from December 2023 to February 2024 were prospectively included, whose age ranged from 18 to 80 years and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade were Ⅰ-Ⅲ. Patients were divided into two groups using block randomization: infraspinatus-teres minor interfascial block group (observation group) and interscalene block group (control group), with 37 cases in each group. In the anesthesia preparation room, all patients received nerve blocks under ultrasound guidance with 20 ml of 0.375% ropivacaine. Patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) was administered to all patients following surgery. The primary outcome was the area under the curve (AUC) of the numeric rating scale (NRS) for pain within 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcome measures included the highest NRS score within 48 hours postoperatively, the amount of sufentanil used via PCIA within 48 hours postoperatively, the incidence of rescue analgesia and rebound pain, QoR-40 scores, and the rate of postoperative nausea and vomiting within 24 hours. The non-inferiority margin for the AUC of NRS scores between the two types of regional nerve blocks was set at "2.6". Results: A total of 35 patients were included in the observation group [17 males, 18 females, aged (58.1±9.1) years], and 36 patients were included in the control group [12 males, 24 females, aged (57.0±9.8) years]. The AUC of the NRS scores at rest within 24 hours post-operation was 51.7±10.9 in the observation group and 62.6±13.6 in the control group. The difference in AUC between the two groups was -10.9 (95%CI:-16.8--5.1), with the upper limit of the 95%CI falling below the predefined non-inferiority margin of "2.6" (non-inferiority P<0.001). The highest NRS score [M (Q1, Q3)] within 48 hours post-surgery was 3 (3, 4) in the control group, which was significantly higher than the observation group's score of 2 (2, 3) (P<0.001). During the postoperative period of 0-12 hours, the observation group received a median dose of 12 (10, 14) μg of sufentanil, which was significantly higher than the control group's dose of 8 (6, 10) μg (P<0.001). During the postoperative period of 12-24 hours, the observation group received a median dose of 8 (8, 10) μg of sufentanil, which was significantly lower than the control group's median dose of 12 (10, 14) μg (P<0.001). During the postoperative period of 24-48 hours, there was no statistically significant difference in the dose of sufentanil between the two groups of patients (P=0.548). In the observation group, the incidence of rescue analgesia within 48 hours postoperatively was 0 (0/35), which was lower than that of the control group at 22.2% (8/36) (P=0.010). The occurrence of rebound pain in the observation group was 0 (0/35), and the control group was 11.1% (4/36), no statistically significant difference was found between two groups (P=0.130). In the observation group, the QoR-40 score within 24 hours post-operation was 180.2±3.2, which was higher than the control group's score of 175.8±4.7 (P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting within 24 hours between the two groups (P=0.372). Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided infraspinatus-teres minor interfascial block demonstrates a comparable analgesic effect to interscalene block in shoulder arthroscopic surgery within the first 24 hours postoperatively.

The putative center in NGC 1052

Context: Many active galaxies harbor powerful relativistic jets, however, the detailed mechanisms of their formation and acceleration remain poorly understood. Aims: To investigate the area of jet acceleration and collimation with the highest available angular resolution, we study the innermost region of the bipolar jet in the nearby low-ionization nuclear emission-line region (LINER) galaxy NGC\,1052. Methods: We combined observations of NGC\,1052 taken with VLBA, GMVA, and EHT over one week in the spring of 2017. Our study is focused on the size and continuum spectrum of the innermost region containing the central engine and the footpoints of both jets. We employed a synchrotron-self absorption model to fit the continuum radio spectrum and we combined the size measurements from close to the central engine out to $ to study the jet collimation. Results: For the first time, NGC\,1052 was detected with the EHT, providing a size of the central region in-between both jet bases of $43\ perpendicular to the jet axes, corresponding to just around $250\,R_ S $ (Schwarzschild radii). This size estimate supports previous studies of the jets expansion profile which suggest two breaks of the profile at around $3 10^3\,R_ S $ and $1 10^4\,R_ S $ distances to the core. Furthermore, we estimated the magnetic field to be 1.25\,Gauss at a distance of $22\ from the central engine by fitting a synchrotron-self absorption spectrum to the innermost emission feature, which shows a spectral turn-over at $ 130\,$GHz. Assuming a purely poloidal magnetic field, this implies an upper limit on the magnetic field strength at the event horizon of $2.6 10^4\,$Gauss, which is consistent with previous measurements. Conclusions: The complex, low-brightness, double-sided jet structure in NGC\,1052 makes it a challenge to detect the source at millimeter (mm) wavelengths. However, our first EHT observations have demonstrated that detection is possible up to at least 230\,GHz. This study offers a glimpse through the dense surrounding torus and into the innermost central region, where the jets are formed. This has enabled us to finally resolve this region and provide improved constraints on its expansion and magnetic field strength.

Search for the lepton-flavor violating decay Bs0→ϕμ±τ∓

A search for the lepton-flavor violating decays Bs0→ϕμ±τ∓ is presented, using a sample of proton-proton collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, collected with the LHCb detector and corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 9 fb−1. The τ leptons are selected using decays with three charged pions. No significant excess is observed, and an upper limit on the branching fraction is determined to be B(Bs0→ϕμ±τ∓)&lt;1.0×10−5 at 90% confidence level. © 2024 CERN, for the LHCb Collaboration 2024 CERN

Probing axion-like particles in leptonic decays of heavy mesons

Abstract We study the possibility to find the axion-like particles (ALPs) through the leptonic decays of heavy mesons. The Standard Model (SM) predictions of the branching ratios of the leptonic decays of heavy mesons are less than corresponding experimental upper limits. This provides some space for the existence of decay channels where the ALP is one of the products. Three scenarios are considered: first, the ALP is only coupled to one single charged fermion, namely, the quark, the antiquark, or the charged lepton; second, the ALP is only coupled to quark and antiquark with the same strength; third, the ALP is coupled to all the charged fermions with the same strength. The constraints of the coupling strength in different scenarios are obtained by comparing the experimental data of the branching ratios of leptonic decays of $B^-$, $D^+$, and $D_s^+$ mesons with the theoretical predictions which are achieved by using the Bethe-Salpeter (BS) method. These constraints are further applied to predict the upper limits of the leptonic decay processes of the $B_c^-$ meson in which the ALP participates.Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 licence. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI. Article funded by SCOAP3 and published under licence by Chinese Physical Society and the Institute of High Energy Physics of the Chinese Academy of Science and the Institute of Modern Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and IOP Publishing Ltd.

Search for X(3872)→π0π0χc1,2

Using 10.1 fb−1 of e+e− collision data collected by the BESIII detector with center-of-mass energies between 4.15 GeV and 4.30 GeV, we search for the decays X(3872)→π0π0χc1,2, where the X(3872) is produced in e+e−→γX(3872). No evidence above 3σ is found for either decay. Upper limits at the 90% CL on the branching fractions of X(3872)→π0π0χc1,2 normalized to the branching fraction of X(3872)→π+π−J/ψ are set to be B(X(3872)→π0π0χc1)/B(X(3872)→π+π−J/ψ)&lt;1.1 and B(X(3872)→π0π0χc2)/B(X(3872)→π+π−J/ψ)&lt;0.5, taking into account both statistical and systematic uncertainties. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Self-supported electrochemical sensor based on uniform palladium nanoparticles functionalized porous graphene film for monitoring H2O2 released from living cells.

Graphene film has been considered a promising material for the construction of self-supported electrodes due to its favorable flexibility and high conductivity. However, the film fabricated from pristine graphene or conventional graphene sheet reduced graphene oxide processes limited electrocatalytic performance. Decorating active metal species or incorporating heteroatoms intothegraphene framework have been proved to be effective methods to enhance the electrocatalytic efficiency of graphene film-based self-supported electrodes. Herein, we present a freestanding electrode composed of uniform Pd nanoparticles decorating N,S co-doped porous graphene film (Pd/NSPGF) and explore its practical application in differentiating various human colon cell types by in situ tracking the amount of H2O2 secreted from live cells. Our findings reveal that, on the one hand, the NSPGF has abundant surface and inner pores, which promote active site exposure, and mass diffusion during electrochemical reactions; on the other hand, the substitutional doping ofthe graphene framework with heteroatoms (e.g., N or S) can tailor its electronic and chemical properties, and facilitate the uniform loading of high-density Pd nanoparticles. Moreover, the intrinsic activity of Pd/NSPGF is regulated by the interaction of Pd nanoparticles withtheNSPGF support. Taking the advantages of morphology and composition, the self-supported Pd/NSPGF electrode displays remarkable electrochemical performance with a wide linear range up to 2.0mM, low detection limit of 0.1μM (S/N = 3), high sensitivity of 665 µA cm-2mM-1, and good selectivity. When applied in real-time trackingofthe H2O2 released from normal human colon epithelial cells and human colorectal cancer cells, the Pd/NSPGF-based electrochemical sensing system can distinguish the cell types by testing the number of extracellular H2O2 molecules released per cell, which holds considerable potential for early detection and monitoring of disease-related clinical specimens.

Nonstoichiometry Promoted Solventless Recrystallization of a Thick and Compact CsPbBr3 Film for Real-Time Dynamic X-Ray Imaging.

Inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite emerges as a promising material for the development of next-generation X-ray detectors. However, the formation of a high-quality thick film of CsPbBr3 has been challenging due to the low solubility of its precursor and its high melting point. To address this limitation, a nonstoichiometry approach is taken that allows lower-temperature crystallization of the target perovskite under the solventless condition. This approach capitalizes on the presence of excess volatile PbBr2 within the CsPbBr3 film, which induces melting point depression and promotes recrystallization of CsPbBr3 at a temperature much lower than its melting point concomitant with the escape of PbBr2. Consequently, thick and compact films of CsPbBr3 are formed with grains ten times larger than those in the pristine films. The resulting X-ray detector exhibits a remarkable sensitivity of 4.2 × 104 µC Gyair -1 cm-2 and a low detection limit of 136 nGyair s-1, along with exceptional operational stability. Notably, the CsPbBr3-based flat-panel detector achieves a high resolution of 0.65 lp pix-1 and the first demonstration of real-time dynamic X-ray imaging for perovskite-based devices.

High-performance PANI sensor on silicon nanowire arrays for sub-ppb NH3 detection

For industrial production and disease diagnosis, real-time detection of low concentrations of NH3 is crucial, necessitating a gas-sensitive sensor compatible with integrated processes and exhibiting excellent performance. Herein, we employed wet etching and rapid in-situ polymerization on silicon nanowire substrates to grow polyaniline fibers, thereby fabricating NH3 gas sensors with p-p heterojunction and three-dimensional network structures. Characterization and gas sensing performance testing were conducted. The results demonstrate the outstanding NH3 detection capabilities of the sensor, providing stable responses down to concentrations as low as 1 ppb, which indicates its LOD is one to two orders of magnitude lower than current similar products. It also exhibits verified selectivity and long-term reliability. The excellent sensing performance is attributed to the high surface area from the silicon nanowire structure and efficient synergy of p-p heterojunction. Additionally, the influence of doping types of the substrates and annealing process were explored. This work serves as a reference for the design of silicon-based gas sensors with high sensitivity, low detection limits, and extended operational lifetimes, suitable for deployment in commercial integrated monitoring systems.

Spontaneous Cooling Enables High-Quality Perovskite Wafers for High-Sensitivity X-Ray Detectors with a Low-Detection Limit.

Developing high-quality perovskite wafers is essential for integrating perovskite technology throughout the chip industry chain. In this article, a spontaneous cooling strategy with a hot-pressing technique is presented to develop high-purity, wafer-scale, pinhole-free perovskite wafers with a reflective surface. This method can be extended to a variety of perovskite wafers, including organic-inorganic, 2D, and lead-free perovskites. Besides, the size of the wafer with diameters of 10, 15, and 20 mm can be tailored by changing the mold. Furthermore, the mechanism of spontaneous cooling for improving the quality of perovskite wafers is revealed. Finally, the high-quality lead-free Cs3Cu2I5 perovskite wafers demonstrate excellent X-ray detection performances with a high sensitivity of 3433.6 µC Gyair -1 cm-2 and a low detection limit of 33.17 nGyair s-1. Moreover, the Cs3Cu2I5 wafers exhibit outstanding environmental and operational stability even without encapsulation. These research presents a spontaneous cooling strategy to achieve wafer-scale, high-quality perovskites with mirror-like surfaces for X-ray detection, paving the way for integrating perovskites into electronic and optoelectronic devices and promoting the practical application of perovskite X-ray detectors.

Demystifying the Potential of Embelin-Loaded Nanoformulations: a Comprehensive Review.

Phytoconstituent based therapies have the potential to reduce the adverse effects and enhance overall patient compliance for different diseased conditions. Embelin (EMB) is a natural compound extracted from Embelia ribes that has demonstrated high therapeutic potential, particularly as anti-inflammatory and anticancer therapeutic applications. However, its poor water solubility and low oral bioavailability limitations make it challenging to use in biomedical applications. Nanostructure-based novel formulations have shown the potential to improve physicochemical and biological characteristics of active pharmaceutical ingredients obtained from plants. Different nanoformulations that have been utilized to encapsulate/entrap EMB for various therapeutic applications are nanoliposomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, niosomes, polymeric nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, phytosomes, self nanoemulsifying drug delivery system, silver nanoparticles, microparticles, solid lipid nanoparticle, gold nanoparticles and nanomicelles. The common methods reported for the preparation of EMB nanoformulations are thin film hydration, nanoprecipitation, ethanol injection, emulsification followed by sonication. The size of nanoformulations ranged in between 50 and 345nm. In this review, the mentioned EMB loaded nanocarriers are methodically discussed for size, shape, drug entrapment, zeta potential, in vitro release & permeation and in vivo studies. Potential of EMB with other drugs (dual drug approach) incorporated in nanocarriers are also discussed (physicochemical and preclinical characteristics). Patents related to EMB nanoformulations are also presented which showed the clinical translation of this bioactive for future utilization in different indications.