Please login first

List of accepted submissions

 
 
Show results per page
Find papers
 
  • Open access
  • 0 Reads
Modulation of Absorption and Gain in a Hybrid Semiconductor Quantum Dot‒Metal Nano-Spheroid System: The Impact of Structural Parameters

Modified nonlinear optical effects in exciton–plasmon hybrid systems have been extensively studied, demonstrating that their optical properties can be tuned by controlling key system parameters. Notably, the pump–probe response has already been investigated in a hybrid structure consisting of a two-level semiconductor quantum dot (SQD) and a spherical gold metal nanoparticle (MNP) under strong pump and weak probe fields [1]. The present study extends this work by examining first-order absorption and gain while modifying the orientation and eccentricity of the MNP [2-4]. Using the Liouville equation under the rotating wave and dipole approximations, we perform a first-order expansion of the density matrix elements with respect to the weak probe field and numerically solve the resulting equations in the steady state. We compute the first-order optical susceptibilities of both the SQD and the MNP, focusing on how the absorption/gain spectral profile is influenced by the geometrical parameters of the nanostructure. We show that, for an exactly resonant pump field, the SQD shows a higher absorption peak in the Dark metastate than in the Bright one. Also, in the Dark region, both components display only absorption across a wider spectral range. These results highlight the tunability of the optical responses, offering new perspectives for sensing, energy harvesting and quantum technologies. A dressed-state framework supports our analysis of the pump–probe response.

[1] S. G. Kosionis and E. Paspalakis, J. Appl. Phys. 124, 223104 (2018).

[2] A. Hatef, S. M. Sadeghi, and M. R. Singh, Nanotechnology 23, 205203 (2012).

[3] M. R. Singh, D. G. Schindel, and A. Hatef, Appl. Phys. Lett. 99,181106 (2011).

[4] A. M. Abd-Elsamie, S. Abd-Elnabi, and K. I. Osman, Plasmonics 23, 02101–02107 (2023).

  • Open access
  • 2 Reads
Natural Polymeric (Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Lignin) Membranes manufactured by Casting Solution and Electrospinning with Antimicrobial Applications

In this study, optimized natural polymeric membranes were developed using two advanced manufacturing methods: solution casting and electrospinning. Both processes required exhaustive optimization to minimize visual and microscopic defects. The natural polymers used were polylactic acid (PLA) and (PLA+ lignin (9 %wt)), while acetone and dichloromethane were the solvents.

Next, the membranes were characterized using several surface analysis techniques. A confocal microscope and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to examine surface morphology (the diameter of the fibers was between 1.6 for PLA and up to 2.2 micrometers for the PLA+Lignin (9 %wt) fibers (27-35% standard deviation in both situations). Contact angle measurements were taken to assess wettability (between 90-100° for PLA and up to 140-150° for PLA+Lignin (9 %wt)), and UV-Vis spectroscopy was used to evaluate the optical transparency (the PLA+Lignin fiber membranes (9 %wt) were between 70 and 80% less transparent than the PLA fiber membranes).

The main objective of this study was to explore potential industrial applications. Due to the known antimicrobial properties of certain functional groups present in lignin, the membranes were subjected to antimicrobial testing. Two evaluation methods were employed, the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method and the direct contact method, following standardized protocols ASTM E2149, JIS Z 2801, and ISO 22196. Four bacterial strains were used: Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), Escherichia coli (Gram-negative), Staphylococcus epidermidis (Gram-positive), and Micrococcus luteus (Gram-positive).

The results revealed notable antimicrobial activity, particularly against Micrococcus Luteus with electrospinning (PLA+Lignin (9 %wt)) membranes with direct contact, suggesting that these membranes could be promising candidates for biomedical applications.

This study demonstrates a sustainable strategy for fabricating nanostructured membranes with inherent antimicrobial properties, paving the way for future biomedical and packaging applications.

  • Open access
  • 0 Reads
Characterization of siderophores produced by the genus Glutamicibacter sp.

Siderophores are low molecular weight compounds synthesized by bacteria, fungi, and plants under iron-deficient conditions (<1×10⁻⁶ M), often featuring functional groups like C=O, C=C, and C=N, which confer fluorescence, while hydroxyl groups (-OH) facilitate metal chelation, particularly with Fe³⁺ ions (Hider et al., 2010). In this research work, a siderophore belonging to a novel species of the genus Glutamicibacter sp. strain AlTeq-24-F2 was studied. The compound was purified using column chromatography and analyzed through a combination of spectroscopic and physicochemical techniques: FT-IR, UV-Vis, spectrofluorometry, ESI-MS, TGA, electrophoresis, and NMR spectroscopy (¹H, ¹³C, and HSQC). FT-IR spectra indicated the presence of OH, CH₂, CH₃, and C=O groups. Spectrofluorometry revealed strong fluorescence at 305 nm upon excitation at 230 nm, which diminished and shifted to 458 nm upon Fe³⁺ titration. UV/Vis spectroscopy showed bathochromic and hyperchromic shifts after metal complexation. TGA demonstrated high thermal stability. Zeta potential measurements confirmed a surface charge reversal (from negative to positive) after Fe³⁺ addition. NMR and ESI-MS data allowed the proposal of a tentative chemical structure based on fragment analysis and mass-to-charge correlations. The siderophore from Glutamicibacter sp. AlTeq-24-F2 exhibits promising physicochemical properties, especially its fluorescence and metal-binding capacity. These features suggest its potential for applications in metal sensing or bioremediation.

  • Open access
  • 2 Reads
Functionalization of graphene oxide as a drug nanocarrier for anticancer therapy

Nanomaterials have a prominent role in new methods of diagnosis and treatment of cancer, so the development of smart nanocarriers constitutes a competent strategy against cancer. Graphene oxide (GO) has a hydrophilic character, which gives it stability in the physiological environment, thanks to which graphene oxide can be used in biomedical applications. GO, due to its large surface area, mechanical resistance and oxygenated groups on the surface and/or edges, can support and transport drugs. In addition, its functionalization with COOH has shown better efficiency in transporting drugs and other compounds, also facilitating their dispersion. Curcumin (Cur), which possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer properties, but has a hydrophobic character and low bioavailability, was used as a model drug. GO was chemically modified with sodium chloroacetate (ClCH2COONa). Then the carboxylated graphene oxide (GO-COOH) was left in agitation with Cur overnight. By means of UV-Vis spectroscopy, RAMAN spectroscopy, FTIR and electron microscopy (TEM and SEM), the functionalization of GO and its interaction with curcumin were confirmed, obtaining 85.35% of curcumin adsorption. Likewise, in vitro release assays in tumor microenvironment conditions were performed. And in order to determine the selective cytotoxic potential of the system, its cell viability was evaluated in healthy and cancerous cell lines.

  • Open access
  • 2 Reads
Synthesis and characterization of alginic acid scaffolds with possible tissue regeneration applications

Hydrogels are 3D networks of hydrophilic crosslinked polymers that are obtained from synthetic or natural sources. Previous works have described these materials as having high water retention capacity, biodegradability and biocompatibility. These characteristics allow hydrogels to be used as scaffolds for tissue regeneration.

In this work, three series of alginic acid hydrogels were synthesized using different chemical crosslinker agents, piperazine, spermidine and 1,4-diaminobutane, with concentrations varying between 5 wt.% and 100 wt.%. The syntheses were carried out in a temperature range of 22≤T/ºC≤ 27 and a constant stirring speed. Gels were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). According to Matos et al (2021) and Ştefan Ţălu’s (2022), it is widely known that SEM analysis provides a relevant morphological map of the surface area, texture and pore size of hydrogels. Another test included infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), mass spectrometry and rheological analysis (viscosity η), as well as biocompatibility tests with fibroblast cultures at 37 oC. All experimental sets were performed in triplicate.

According to the results, SEM analysis revealed that 1, 4- diaminobutane gels have a pore size of 1 µm to 3 µm, while spermidine and piperazine exhibit values from 1µm to 13 µm and, 1µm to 14 µm, respectively. The pore size range is determined by the molecular structure of the crosslinker agent. This means that spermidine and piperazine gels result in wider pores than 1,4- diaminobutane hydrogels. On the other hand, tests showed that cells did not adhere to the surface of the gels. However, the formulation of each materials has been modified for better adhesion viability. All hydrogels absorb large amounts of solvent in aqueous conditions. However, in saline solutions,piperazine gels dissolve, while 1,4- diaminobutane and spermidine hydrogels tend to fragment. The results obtained suggest that alginic acid hydrogels have a high viability to be applied for tissue regeneration treatments.

  • Open access
  • 9 Reads
Freeze-dried chitosan scaffolds incorporating polyvinylpyrrolidone/polyvinyl alcohol/curcumin (CS-PVP/PVA/Cur) and silicon dioxide nanoparticles (NPs-SiO2)

Tissue engineering seeks to create structures that mimic or stimulate the regeneration of native tissues. This study focuses on promoting tissue regeneration using scaffolds composed of chitosan (CS), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and silicon dioxide nanoparticles (NPs-SiO₂). The goal is to design scaffolds with mechanical properties similar to bone, combining rigidity to withstand biomechanical loads and flexibility to allow for cell migration. This strategy offers a promising platform for effective and functional bone repair. Biodegradable scaffolds enhanced with curcumin offer improved tissue regeneration and protection against infection, inflammation, and oxidative damage. The nanoparticles were initially synthesized by the sol-gel method and incorporated into the CS/PVP/PVA matrix by freeze-drying, which allowed a porous morphology to be obtained with small (<100 μm), medium (100–200 μm), and large (200–450 μm) pore distributions. The resulting structures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and in vitro cell viability assays, showing low cytotoxicity. In vivo tests were performed to allow for macroscopic inspection of the operated area in all biomodels, where approximate growth was expected in the presence of the scaffold, which proved to be biocompatible. The partial results indicate that the FT-IR of the scaffolds was successfully incorporated into the silicon dioxide (SiO₂) complex. Specifically, an intensification and definition of the broadband around 1076 cm⁻¹ wasidentified in the asymmetric stretching of the Si-O-Si bond, overlapping with the C-O vibrations of the polymers. The mechanical properties wereevaluated through the elastic modulus, maximum stress, and maximum deformation. There is a clear difference in stiffness of approximately 2.3 in one formulation (F2) compared to the other two formulations, making it not only the most rigid, but also the most resistant. Despite their notable differences in stiffness and resistance, all three types of scaffolds are highly deformable and elastic materials for biomedicine.

  • Open access
  • 2 Reads
Enhancing Energy System Safety and Reliability with Nanosensor Integration

Abstract

Introduction:
The integration of nanosensors into modern energy systems is recognized as a transformative innovation aimed at enhancing system safety, reliability, and operational performance. These nanoscale devices offer real-time monitoring capabilities which are critical for early fault detection and the proactive management of energy infrastructure. Their deployment across various energy technologies—including photovoltaic (PV) modules, hydrogen storage units, and advanced batteries—has prompted a need to examine their effectiveness and integration strategies.

Methods:
This study presents a focused framework that synthesizes findings from recent experimental and simulation-based literature. Key nanosensor materials such as carbon nanotubes, metal oxides, and nanowires are evaluated in terms of their sensitivity, selectivity, and structural resilience. Case studies across PV, hydrogen, and battery systems are reviewed, and the role of self-powered nanosensors (e.g., triboelectric and piezoelectric types) is assessed. The integration of these sensors with Internet of Things (IoT) platforms for real-time data acquisition and anomaly detection is also investigated.

Results:
Nanosensors embedded in PV systems effectively detect thermal anomalies and material fatigue, enabling predictive maintenance and improved efficiency. In hydrogen storage and battery systems, early identification of gas leakage and electrolyte breakdown is achieved, minimizing safety hazards. Self-powered nanosensors have demonstrated potential for deployment in remote and wireless energy networks. Integration with IoT infrastructure has enabled enhanced data processing, real-time alerts, and automated fault response, improving system resilience and operational control.

Conclusion:
Nanosensor integration has been shown to significantly contribute to the advancement of smart, secure, and sustainable energy systems. By focusing on specific applications and implementation models, this study underscores the potential of nanosensor-enabled monitoring to revolutionize energy infrastructure. Future research is recommended to address remaining challenges related to sensor durability, power management, and standardized deployment protocols

  • Open access
  • 1 Read
The Consumption of Nanocrystalline Nanocellulose Affects Behavioral Responses in vivo

Introduction. Nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) has unique physico-chemical properties and is considered an effective substitute for microcrystalline cellulose (E460i). However, the use of NCC in food production is hindered by a lack of knowledge about the risks of its effects on the human body during prolonged consumption with food.

Methods. The potential neurotropic properties of NCC were studied using a complex of neurophysiological methods (CRPA, EPM) with the daily consumption of NCC by Wistar rats at doses of 1-100 mg/kg b.w. for 56 days.

Results. The consumption of NCC in the entire dose range had an effect on the motor activity of animals in the EPM. In animals that consumed NCC at a dose of 100 mg/ kg b.w., a whole range of significant changes in behavioral reactions were revealed compared with the control, among which there were signs of anxiety-like behavior. As shown by an analysis of the movement of rats around the maze, there was an almost threefold increase in the ratio of stay in the open and closed arms of the maze. During the development of a conditioned reflex in the CRPA installation, rats that consumed NCC in the highest dose were characterized by a significant decrease in latency time before entering the dark compartment of the installation. There was no significant effect of NCC on the indicators of short-term and long-term memory.

Conclusion. Dietary intake of NCC, especially in high doses of 10-100 mg/kg b.w., is accompanied by neurotropic effects in rats. The NOAEL of NCC for a 56-day intake with a diet is, according to the study of behavioral indicators, in any case, less than 1 mg/kg b.w.

Funding. Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation (FGMF-2025-0004).

  • Open access
  • 2 Reads
Voltammetric sensor based on electropolymerized phenol red for the simultaneous quantification of syringaldehyde and vanillin

Syringaldehyde and vanillin are used as flavorings and odorants in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Moreover, their concentration ratio is considered a significant parameter for brandy and cognac quality characterization, allowing for the identification of adulteration. Thus, the simultaneous quantification of syringaldehyde and vanillin is in high demand. Voltammetric sensors are a promising tool to solve this problem due to their high sensitivity, sufficient selectivity, fast response, and possibility of miniaturization. A glassy carbon electrode modified with carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes and electropolymerized indicator phenol red was developed as a voltammetric sensor for the simultaneous determination of syringaldehyde and vanillin. The electropolymerization conditions were optimized using the voltammetric parameters of the syringaldehyde and vanillin mixture. The best resolution of anodic peaks (121 mV) with sufficient currents was obtained for 100 μM phenol red electropolymerized in 0.1 M sodium hydroxide by 10-fold potential cycling from 0.1 to 1.0 V with a scan rate of 75 mV s-1. Polymeric coverage provides an increase in the electroactive surface area of the electrode and a higher heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant vs. bare glassy carbon electrode. The irreversible diffusion-driven electrode reaction with the participation of two electrons and two protons was confirmed for both aldehydes. The linear dynamic ranges of sensor response for both analytes are 0.10-2.5 and 2.5-25 μM, with limits of detection equal to 44 and 33 nM for syringaldehyde and vanillin, respectively.

  • Open access
  • 4 Reads
Thermoresponsive Magnetic Hydrogels for Targeted Doxorubicin Delivery and Magnetic Hyperthermia in Cancer Therapy

The development of multifunctional nanomaterials capable of simultaneously delivering drugs and inducing localized hyperthermia represents a promising strategy in advanced cancer therapies. In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of thermoresponsive magnetic hydrogels (GMag) based on poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄) for synergistic chemotherapy and magnetic hyperthermia applications. The superparamagnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were synthesized via a reverse co-precipitation method, with polyethylene glycol (PEG-8000) incorporated in situ, allowing simultaneous surface modification to improve colloidal stability, dispersion in aqueous media, and biocompatibility. To enhance the mechanical strength and elasticity of the hydrogel matrix, 2.5% (w/w) TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNFs) were incorporated into the formulation. These nanofibers introduced a reinforcing network, improving structural integrity while maintaining responsiveness. The GMag were synthesized through free radical polymerization with varying nanoparticle loadings (2.5% to 10%). The hybrid hydrogels retained superparamagnetic behavior and demonstrated a significant heating response under an alternating magnetic field, reaching a temperature of up to 43.2 °C—suitable for magnetic hyperthermia treatment. These GMag were characterized by XRD, FTIR, and TGA to confirm structural integrity and thermal properties and were subsequently evaluated as platforms for the controlled release of the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin (DOX). Drug loading studies revealed a high encapsulation efficiency (up to 8.3 × 10⁻² mg DOX/mg hydrogel), while in vitro release experiments confirmed temperature- and magnetically triggered release. In the in vitro drug release at 37 °C and physiological pH, GMag2.5 released 63% of DOX within 6 hours, followed by sustained release. When exposed to a magnetic field, a burst release of 18% was observed within 10 minutes, demonstrating controllable, on-demand delivery. Biocompatibility was validated via MTT assays on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. These results highlight the potential of GMag hydrogels as dual-action nanoplatforms for targeted, localized, and stimulus-responsive cancer treatment, combining controlled drug delivery with magnetic hyperthermia for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Top