Reversible morphological transformation between polymer nanocapsules and thin films through dynamic covalent self-assembly.

A facile method has been developed for synthesizing polymer nanocapsules and thin films using multiple in-plane stitching of monomers by the formation of reversible disulfide linkages. Owing to the reversibility of the disulfide linkages, the nanostructured materials readily transform their structures in response to environmental changes at room temperature. For example, in reducing environments, the polymer nanocapsules release loaded cargo molecules. Moreover, reversible morphological transformations between these structures can be achieved by simple solvent exchanges. This work is a novel approach for the formation of robust nano/microstructured materials that dynamically respond to environmental stimuli.

Fluorescent covalent organic frameworks - promising bioimaging materials.

Fluorescent covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as promising candidates for imaging living cells due to their unique properties and adjustable fluorescence. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of recent advancements in fluorescent COFs for bioimaging applications. We discuss the strategies used to design COFs with desirable properties such as high photostability, excellent biocompatibility, and pH sensitivity. Additionally, we explore the various ways in which fluorescent COFs are utilized in bioimaging, including cellular imaging, targeting specific organelles, and tracking biomolecules. We delve into their applications in sensing intracellular pH, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and specific biomarkers. Furthermore, we examine how functionalization techniques enhance the targeting and imaging capabilities of fluorescent COFs. Finally, we discuss the challenges and prospects in the field of fluorescent COFs for bioimaging in living cells, urging further research in this exciting area.

An in vitro evaluation of diametral tensile strength and flexural strength of nanocomposite vs hybrid and minifill composites cured with different light sources (QTH vs LED).

BACKGROUND: Composites always remained the target of discussion due to lot of controversies around it. Mechanical properties are one of them. With the introduction of new technology and emergence of various composites which combine superior strength and polish retention, nanocomposites have led to a new spark in the dentistry. A recent curing unit LED with various curing modes claims to produce higher degree of conversion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diametral tensile strength and flexural strength of nanocomposite, hybrid and minifill composites cured with different light sources (QTH vs LED). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-two samples were prepared using different specially fabricated teflon molds, 24 samples of each composite were prepared for the diametral tensile strength (ADA specification no. 27) and the flexural strength (ISO 4049) of the 12 samples, six were cured with LED (Soft Start curing profile) and other six with QTH curing light and tested on a universal testing machine. RESULTS: The nanocomposite had highest diametral tensile strength and flexural strength which were equivalent to the hybrid composite and superior than the minifill composite. CONCLUSION: With the combination of superior esthetics and other optimized physical properties, this novel nanocomposite system would be useful for all posterior and anterior applications.

Covalent Organic Polymers and Frameworks for Fluorescence-Based Sensors.

Following the advancements and diversification in synthetic strategies for porous covalent materials in the literature, the materials science community started to investigate the performance of covalent organic polymers (COPs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in applications that require large surface areas for interaction with other molecules, chemical stability, and insolubility. Sensorics is an area where COPs and COFs have demonstrated immense potential and achieved high levels of sensitivity and selectivity on account of their tunable structures. In this review, we focus on those covalent polymeric systems that use fluorescence spectroscopy as a method of detection. After briefly reviewing the physical basis of fluorescence-based sensors, we delve into various kinds of analytes that have been explored with COPs and COFs, namely, heavy metal ions, explosives, biological molecules, amines, pH, volatile organic compounds and solvents, iodine, enantiomers, gases, and anions. Throughout this work, we discuss the mechanisms involved in each sensing application and aim to quantify the potency of the discussed sensors by providing limits of detection and quenching constants when available. This review concludes with a summary of the surveyed literature and raises a few concerns that should be addressed in the future development of COP and COF fluorescence-based sensors.