Smart materials at the nanoscale level have seen significant advancements, leading to innovative applications in materials science and engineering. These materials are able to respond to physical, chemical, and/or biological stimuli. In particular, the behavior of sensitive polymer particles and their unique properties are strongly influenced by functional groups (GFs) attached to the main chain. For this reason, they can be used in several knowledge areas. The aim of this research is to synthesize Ph-thermo-responsive polymeric nanoparticles functionalized with carboxylic and amide groups by emulsion polymerization to be used as drug delivery systems. According to the methodology, series 1 (core–shell) and series 2 (core with concentration gradient) were prepared using a two-stage semicontinuous process and a power feed process, respectively. Polymers were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), electrophoresis (zeta potential, ζ), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and viscosity (η) values, storage (G’) and loss (G’’) moduli were determined via rheological analysis. Measurements were performed in a temperature range of 25 ºC to 70 ºC. DLS analysis showed changes in the particle diameter (250≤Dz/nm≤1000) over the entire temperature range attributed to the phase transition temperatures. Negative zeta potential values (-45 ≤ ζ/mv ≤ -22) were observed, indicating high stability. As temperature rose, ζ approached zero, suggesting a loss of stability. Rheological tests revealed shear-thinning behavior for all polymers. Their elastic and viscous moduli provided insights into the linear viscoelastic regions and how yield points change with temperature variations. After a titration process, SEM images revealed distinct surface morphologies, including popcorn-like, cauliflower-like, and semi-spherical structures. In conclusion, the materials exhibit high sensitivity to temperature and pH changes, which induce conformational and morphological alterations influenced by the location and concentration of GFs within the particles. Therefore, they are suitable for use as nanocarries.

The combination of liquid crystals and nanotechnology has resulted in a variety of tunable multifunctional materials suitable for advanced nanophotonic applications, including miniature lasers, structured light, nonlinear optics, quantum technologies, sensing, imaging, communication, and soft robotics. The development of new nanocomposites made of liquid crystals and various types of nanoparticles is critical for future progress in this rapidly evolving field. Traditionally, conventional molecular liquid crystals are used as anisotropic hosts for nanomaterials to create advanced nonlinear optical materials. Recently, we proposed using glass-forming ionic liquid crystals made of metal alkanoates to produce glass nanocomposites exhibiting long-term stability and strong third-order nonlinear optical response. In this paper, we provide a comparative analysis of the nonlinear optical response of vitrified mesogenic cadmium octanoate containing gold, carbon, or both gold and carbon nanoparticles. Z-scan measurements, conducted using both nanosecond and femtosecond laser pulses, revealed an unusual nonlinear optical response in the studied materials. The measured values of the nonlinear absorption coefficients and nonlinear refractive indices are intensity-dependent. In addition, the excitation of the studied samples by nanosecond laser pulses can lead to the sign reversal of the nonlinear absorption coefficient, whereas the use of femtosecond laser pulses leads to sign reversal in the nonlinear refractive index. This sign reversal of nonlinear optical parameters depends on both light intensity and the composition of the studied nanocomposites. The obtained results can benefit the rapidly growing field of advanced nanophotonics, as they demonstrate different ways to control the effective nonlinear optical response of liquid crystal nanocomposites.

Nanoliposomes are systems composed of phospholipids or cholesterol that are used as carriers for topical delivery. Their formation, interaction, and stability depend on molecular organization and thermodynamics of self-assembly, describing how molecules spontaneously arrange into ordered structures by attractive or repulsive forces. These vesicles can encapsulate and transport substances, improving their stability, bioavailability, and skin penetration.

In this research, phosphatidylcholine (PC)-based nanoliposomes were prepared by ultrasonication at 25–40 °C. Lipid concentration ranged from 0.3 to 2.5 mM. Characterization included dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential (ζ), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs free energy (ΔG°), enthalpy (ΔH°), and entropy (ΔS°) were determined using the following:

ΔG=−RTlnK

where R is the universal gas constant, T the absolute temperature, and K the equilibrium constant for lipid–lipid or lipid–additive interactions.

To describe micellization-related behavior, critical micelle concentration (CMC) and standard Gibbs energy of micellization were also considered using the following:

ΔGmic​=RTln(CMC)

According to the results, the most stable systems were found in a concentration range of 1.0 to1.2 mM, showing z values of -42.7 0.5 mV. This indicates a high stability. DLS measurements reported particle sizes between 115 and 135 nm with 1.1PDI. SEM images show spherical and homogeneous morphologies of liposomes, suggesting an efficient lipid packing and self-assembly. On the other hand, ITC experiments revealed exothermic binding profiles during formation. Thermodynamic analysis yielded negative values for enthalpy change (∆H° = -15 KJ/mol) at 25 ºC and 30 °C due to strong van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions. Nevertheless, positive values of ∆H° = 15 KJ/mol were obtained at 35 ºC and 40 °C attributed to a highly disordered structure. This indicates a reduced enthalpic contribution due to increased membrane fluidity. In summary, nanoliposomes could have a high potential to be used as nanocarriers in the cosmetic area.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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