'Secrete-and-sense cells' can communicate by secreting a signaling molecule while also producing a receptor that detects the molecule. The cell can potentially 'talk' to itself ('self-communication') or talk to neighboring cells with the same receptor ('neighbor communication'). The predominant forms of secrete-and-sense cells are self-communicating 'autocrine cells', which are largely found in...

In recent years, several researchers have shown the good performance of alkali activated slag cement and concretes. Besides their good mechanical properties and durability, this type of cement is a good alternative to Portland cements if sustainability is considered. Moreover, multifunctional cement composites have been developed in the last decades for their functional applications (self-sensi...

Robots are often used for sensing and sampling in natural environments. Within this area, soft robots have become increasingly popular these tasks because their mechanical compliance makes them safer to interact with. Unfortunately, if break while working vulnerable environments, they create potentially hazardous waste. Consequently, the development of compliant, biodegradable structures soft, ...