This study investigates the potential of combining Cerium-doped bioactive glass (BBGi) with Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to enhance the properties of titanium (Ti) implant surfaces using the Matrix-Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation (MAPLE) technique. The primary focus is on improving osseointegration, corrosion resistance, and evaluating the cytotoxicity of the developed thin films towards host cells. The innovative approach involves synthesizing a composite thin film comprising BBGi and PVP, leveraging the distinct benefits of both materials: BBGi's biocompatibility and osteoinductive capabilities, and PVP's film-forming and biocompatible properties. Results demonstrate that the BBGi + PVP coatings significantly enhance hydrophilicity, indicating improved cell-material interaction potential. The electrochemical analysis reveals superior corrosion resistance of the BBGi + PVP films compared to BBGi alone, which is critical for long-term implant stability. The mechanical adherence tests confirm the robust attachment of the coatings to Ti substrates, surpassing the ISO standards for implant materials. Biocompatibility tests show promising cell viability and negligible cytotoxic effects, with a controlled inflammatory response, underscoring the potential of BBGi + PVP coatings for orthopedic applications. The study concludes that the synergistic combination of BBGi and PVP, applied through the MAPLE technique, offers a promising route to fabricate bioactive and corrosion-resistant coatings for Ti implants, potentially enhancing osseointegration and longevity in clinical settings.

Graphene/CNT layers were deposited onto platinum electrodes of an interdigitated sensor using radio-frequency magnetron sputtering. The graphene/CNTs were synthesized in an Argon atmosphere at a pressure of (2 × 10−2–5 × 10−3) mbar, with the substrate maintained at 300 °C either through continuous heating with an electronically controlled heater or by applying a −200 V bias using a direct current power supply throughout the deposition process. The study compares the surface morphology, carbon atom arrangement within the layer volumes, and electrical properties of the films as influenced by the different methods of substrate heating. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of CNTs within the graphene matrix. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy revealed that the carbon nanotubes are aligned and organized into cluster-like structure. The graphene/CNT layers produced at higher pressures present exponential I–V characteristics that ascertain the semiconducting character of the layers and their suitability for applications in gas sensing.

Bone infections, particularly osteomyelitis, present significant clinical challenges due to their resistance to treatment and risk of progressing to chronic disease. Conventional therapies, including systemic antibiotics and surgical debridement, often prove insufficient, especially in cases where biofilms form or infection sites are difficult to access. As an alternative, calcium phosphate bioceramics have emerged as a promising strategy for treating bone infections. These materials offer key advantages such as biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, and the ability to be engineered for controlled drug delivery. Calcium phosphate bioceramics can serve as scaffolds for bone regeneration while simultaneously delivering antibiotics locally, thus addressing the limitations of systemic therapies and reducing infection recurrence. This review provides an overview of osteomyelitis, including its pathogenesis and conventional treatment approaches, while exploring the diverse therapeutic possibilities presented by calcium phosphate bioceramics. Special attention is given to hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate, and their composites, with a focus on their therapeutic potential in the treatment of bone infections. The discussion highlights their mechanisms of action, integration with antimicrobial agents, and clinical efficacy. The dual capacity of calcium phosphate bioceramics to promote both bone healing and infection management is critically evaluated, highlighting opportunities for future research to address current challenges and enhance their clinical application in orthopedics and dentistry. Future research directions should focus on developing calcium phosphate bioceramic composites with enhanced antibacterial properties, optimizing drug-loading capacities, and advancing minimally invasive delivery methods to improve clinical outcomes. Further in vivo studies are essential to validate the long-term efficacy and safety of calcium phosphate bioceramic applications, with an emphasis on patient-specific formulations and rapid prototyping technologies that can personalize treatment for diverse osteomyelitis cases.

During surgery and after, pathogens can contaminate indwelling and implanted medical devices, resulting in serious infections. Microbial colonization, infection, and later biofilm formation are major complications associated with the use of implants and represent major risk factors in implant failure. Despite the fact that aseptic surgery and the use of antimicrobial medications can lower the risk of infection, systemic antibiotic use can result in a loss of efficacy, increased tissue toxicity, and the development of drug-resistant diseases. This work explores the advancements in antimicrobial coatings for head-related implantable medical devices, addressing the critical issue of infection prevention. It emphasizes the significance of these coatings in reducing biofilm formation and microbial colonization and highlights various techniques and materials used in creating effective antimicrobial surfaces. Moreover, this article presents a comprehensive overview of the current strategies and future directions in antimicrobial coating research, aiming to improve patient outcomes by preventing head-related implant-associated infections.

This review explores the extensive applications of plants in areas of biomimetics and bioinspiration, highlighting their role in developing sustainable solutions across various fields such as medicine, materials science, and environmental technology. Plants not only serve essential ecological functions but also provide a rich source of inspiration for innovations in green nanotechnology, biomedicine, and architecture. In the past decade, the focus has shifted towards utilizing plant-based and vegetal waste materials in creating eco-friendly and cost-effective materials with remarkable properties. These materials are employed in making advancements in drug delivery, environmental remediation, and the production of renewable energy. Specifically, the review discusses the use of (nano)bionic plants capable of detecting explosives and environmental contaminants, underscoring their potential in improving quality of life and even in lifesaving applications. The work also refers to the architectural inspirations drawn from the plant world to develop novel design concepts that are both functional and aesthetic. It elaborates on how engineered plants and vegetal waste have been transformed into value-added materials through innovative applications, especially highlighting their roles in wastewater treatment and as electronic components. Moreover, the integration of plants in the synthesis of biocompatible materials for medical applications such as tissue engineering scaffolds and artificial muscles demonstrates their versatility and capacity to replace more traditional synthetic materials, aligning with global sustainability goals. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current and potential uses of living plants in technological advancements, advocating for a deeper exploration of vegetal materials to address pressing environmental and technological challenges.

This study provides a brief discussion of the major nanopharmaceuticals formulations as well as the impact of nanotechnology on the future of pharmaceuticals. Effective and eco-friendly strategies of biofabrication are also highlighted. Modern approaches to designing pharmaceutical nanoformulations (e.g., 3D printing, Phyto-Nanotechnology, Biomimetics/Bioinspiration, etc.) are outlined. This paper discusses the need to use natural resources for the “green” design of new nanoformulations with therapeutic efficiency. Nanopharmaceuticals research is still in its early stages, and the preparation of nanomaterials must be carefully considered. Therefore, safety and long-term effects of pharmaceutical nanoformulations must not be overlooked. The testing of nanopharmaceuticals represents an essential point in their further applications. Vegetal scaffolds obtained by decellularizing plant leaves represent a valuable, bioinspired model for nanopharmaceutical testing that avoids using animals. Nanoformulations are critical in various fields, especially in pharmacy, medicine, agriculture, and material science, due to their unique properties and advantages over conventional formulations that allows improved solubility, bioavailability, targeted drug delivery, controlled release, and reduced toxicity. Nanopharmaceuticals have transitioned from experimental stages to being a vital component of clinical practice, significantly improving outcomes in medical fields for cancer treatment, infectious diseases, neurological disorders, personalized medicine, and advanced diagnostics. Here are the key points highlighting their importance. The significant challenges, opportunities, and future directions are mentioned in the final section.

This research work presents a “green” strategy of weed valorization for developing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with promising interesting applications. Two types of AgNPs were phyto-synthesized using an aqueous leaf extract of the weed Andropogon halepensis L. Phyto-manufacturing of AgNPs was achieved by two bio-reactions, in which the volume ratio of (phyto-extract)/(silver salt solution) was varied. The size and physical stability of Andropogon—AgNPs were evaluated by means of DLS and zeta potential measurements, respectively. The phyto-developed nanoparticles presented good free radicals-scavenging properties (investigated via a chemiluminescence technique) and also urease inhibitory activity (evaluated using the conductometric method). Andropogon—AgNPs could be promising candidates for various bio-applications, such as acting as an antioxidant coating for the development of multifunctional materials. Thus, the Andropogon-derived samples were used to treat spider silk from the spider Pholcus phalangioides, and then, the obtained “green” materials were characterized by spectral (UV-Vis absorption, FTIR ATR, and EDX) and morphological (SEM) analyses. These results could be exploited to design novel bioactive materials with applications in the biomedical field.

In this work results are presented on the evaluation of HAp, HApSr, HAp_CS, and HApSr_CS layers deposited on Ti substrates regarding L929 cell viability and cytotoxicity as well as antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, in connection with their physicochemical properties. The HAp and HApSr layers generated by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering technique were further covered with chitosan by a matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation technique. During the plasma depositions, the Ti substrates were heated externally by a home-made oven above 100 °C. The HApSr_CS layers generated on the unpolished Ti substrates at 100 °C and 400 °C showed the highest biocompatibility properties and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The morphology of the layer surfaces, revealed by scanning electron microscopy, is dependent on substrate temperature and substrate surface roughness. The optically polished surfaces of Ti substrates revealed grain-like and microchannel structure morphologies of the layers deposited at 25 °C substrate temperature and 400 °C, respectively. Chitosan has no major influence on HAp and HApSr layer surface morphologies. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicated the presence of Ca 2p3/2 peak characteristic of the HAp structure even in the case of the HApSr_CS samples generated at a 400 °C substrate temperature. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy investigations showed shifts in the wavenumber positions of the P-O absorption bands as a function of Sr or chitosan presence in the HAp layers generated at 25, 100, and 400 °C substrate temperatures.

This review addresses the urgent need for more targeted and less toxic cancer treatments by exploring the potential of multi-responsive polymersomes. These advanced nanocarriers are engineered to deliver drugs precisely to tumor sites by responding to specific stimuli such as pH, temperature, light, hypoxia, and redox conditions, thereby minimizing the side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. We discuss the design, synthesis, and recent applications of polymersomes, emphasizing their ability to improve therapeutic outcomes through controlled drug release and targeted delivery. Moreover, we highlight the critical areas for future research, including the optimization of polymersome–biological interactions and biocompatibility, to facilitate their clinical adoption. Multi-responsive polymersomes emerge as a promising development in nanomedicine, offering a pathway to safer and more effective cancer treatments.

Strontium-doped calcium phosphate/chitosan films were synthetized on silicon substrates using the radio-frequency magnetron sputtering technique and the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation technique. The deposition conditions associated with the radio-frequency magnetron sputtering discharge, in particular, include the high temperature at the substrate, which promotes the formation of strontium-doped tetra calcium phosphate layers. The physical and chemical processes associated with the deposition of chitosan on strontium-doped calcium phosphate layers were investigated using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Mass spectrometry coupled with laser induced ablation of the composite films proved to be a useful tool in the detection of the molecular ions characteristic to chitosan chemical structure.

We propose the use of carbon nanowall (CNW) structures for mechanically removing contaminants from atomic force microscopy (AFM) tips. The cleaning capabilities of CNWs are given by some of their outstanding properties: chemical stability, large surface area when deposited in the form of thin films, high surface density of the structures, high elasticity of the carbon walls. The mechanical cleaning procedures must not alter the geometry of the tips, while being able to remove the contaminants. The CNWs used in this study were grown on solid substrates by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PE-CVD). We performed cleaning tests on various types of AFM tips grouped in two large categories: tips with accidental contamination from previous use, and new tips contaminated on purpose. CNWs proved effective for the removal of contaminants from tips belonging to both categories.

In this paper, we studied the release of deuterium atoms from 1 & mu;m aluminum layers by Laser Induced Ablation and Laser Induced Desorption methods, using a 1053 nm laser source operating with 10 ns pulse duration and 1 kHz pulse repetition rate. The software control of the laser pulse energy successfully accomplished the transition from layer ablation to layer desorption. The layers have been produced by High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering technique on substrates with different surface properties.The amount of deuterium released from aluminum layers was evaluated by Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry after ablation respectively desorption of a small area of the sample exposed to the focused laser beam. The results were compared with the one obtained by Thermal Desorption Spectroscopy, which indicated a total amount of deuterium in the analyzed sample of about 2.6 x 1021 D at/m2. The mass spectra data revealed that 85% (2.2 x 1021 D at/m2) and 9% (0.2 x 1021 D at/m2) of total deuterium atoms released from the aluminum layer by Laser Induced Ablation and Laser Induced Desorption, respectively, were detected. The mathematical fitting of the experimental data indicated different laser fluences that boundary the desorption from ablation processes. Through analyses of the morphology of aluminum layer surfaces in connection with the substrate surface quality, the release of deuterium atoms by Laser Induced Ablation or Laser Induced Desorption processes can be identified.

AI and ML have emerged as transformative tools in various scientific domains, including hydrogel design. This work explores the integration of AI and ML techniques in the realm of hydrogel development, highlighting their significance in enhancing the design, characterisation, and optimisation of hydrogels for diverse applications. We introduced the concept of AI train hydrogel design, underscoring its potential to decode intricate relationships between hydrogel compositions, structures, and properties from complex data sets. In this work, we outlined classical physical and chemical techniques in hydrogel design, setting the stage for AI/ML advancements. These methods provide a foundational understanding for the subsequent AI-driven innovations. Numerical and analytical methods empowered by AI/ML were also included. These computational tools enable predictive simulations of hydrogel behaviour under varying conditions, aiding in property customisation. We also emphasised AI’s impact, elucidating its role in rapid material discovery, precise property predictions, and optimal design. ML techniques like neural networks and support vector machines that expedite pattern recognition and predictive modelling using vast datasets, advancing hydrogel formulation discovery are also presented. AI and ML’s have a transformative influence on hydrogel design. AI and ML have revolutionised hydrogel design by expediting material discovery, optimising properties, reducing costs, and enabling precise customisation. These technologies have the potential to address pressing healthcare and biomedical challenges, offering innovative solutions for drug delivery, tissue engineering, wound healing, and more. By harmonising computational insights with classical techniques, researchers can unlock unprecedented hydrogel potentials, tailoring solutions for diverse applications.

Concurrent developments in anticancer nanotechnological treatments have been observed as the burden of cancer increases every year. The 21st century has seen a transformation in the study of medicine thanks to the advancement in the field of material science and nanomedicine. Improved drug delivery systems with proven efficacy and fewer side effects have been made possible. Nanoformulations with varied functions are being created using lipids, polymers, and inorganic and peptide-based nanomedicines. Therefore, thorough knowledge of these intelligent nanomedicines is crucial for developing very promising drug delivery systems. Polymeric micelles are often simple to make and have high solubilization characteristics; as a result, they seem to be a promising alternative to other nanosystems. Even though recent studies have provided an overview of polymeric micelles, here we included a discussion on the "intelligent" drug delivery from these systems. We also summarized the state-of-the-art and the most recent developments of polymeric micellar systems with respect to cancer treatments. Additionally, we gave significant attention to the clinical translation potential of polymeric micellar systems in the treatment of various cancers.

The use of MAPLE synthesized thin films based on BG and VD3 for improving the osseointegration and corrosion protection of Ti-like implant surfaces is reported. The distribution of chemical elements and functional groups was shown by FTIR spectrometry; the stoichiometry and chemical functional integrity of thin films after MAPLE deposition was preserved, optimal results being revealed especially for the BG+VD3_025 samples. The morphology and topography were examined by SEM and AFM, and revealed surfaces with many irregularities, favoring a good adhesion of cells. The thin films' cytotoxicity and biocompatibility were evaluated in vitro at the morphological, biochemical, and molecular level. Following incubation with HDF cells, BG57+VD3_ 025 thin films showed the best degree of biocompatibility, as illustrated by the viability assay values. According to the LDH investigation, all tested samples had higher values compared to the unstimulated cells. The evaluation of cell morphology was performed by fluorescence microscopy following cultivation of HDF cells on the obtained thin films. The cultivation of HDF's on the thin films did not induce major cellular changes. Cells cultured on the BG57+VD3_025 sample had similar morphology to that of unstimulated control cells. The inflammatory profile of human cells cultured on thin films obtained by MAPLE was analyzed by the ELISA technique. It was observed that the thin films did not change the pro- and anti-inflammatory profile of the HDF cells, the IL-6 and IL-10 levels being similar to those of the control sample. The wettability of the MAPLE thin films was investigated by the sessile drop method. A contact angle of 54.65° was measured for the sample coated with BG57+VD3_025. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy gave a valuable insight into the electrochemical reactions occurring on the surface.

The archaeological research from 2016-2021 allowed us to identify in Buridava some types of archaeological structures that can also be found in other sites belonging to the classic Geto-Dacian era and which largely correspond to the discoveries of Dumitru Berciu from 1961-1992. The discoveries were made on terrace VIII, the last one on the western side of the bushy hills of Cosota. Looking back and benefiting today from multiple sources of analysis (LIDAR, aerial photography, etc.) we are convinced that all eight terraces and the Acropolis served starting from the last quarter of the 1st century BC and throughout the 1st century BC as a necropolis/sacred area. Our study is based on the analysis of the archaeological context; forensic anthropological analysis; serological analysis; X-ray microtomography (mu XCT) and 3D reconstruction; SEM and EDS analyses; X-ray analysis, EDXRF spectrometryThe bones analysed are of human nature, a fact that is supported by their morphology, as well as by the serological and physical examinations that were carried out. There are a few exceptions where, due to the extremely small dimensions, further clarifications could not be made. The analyses focused on 1457 cremated fragments and various component parts of the bones of the human skeleton were identified.

The cathode microporous layer (MPL), as one of the key components of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEM-FC), requires specialized carbon materials to ensure the two-phase flow and interfacial effects. In this respect, we designed a novel MPL based on highly hydrophobic carbon nanowalls (CNW). Employing plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition techniques directly on carbon paper, we produced high-quality microporous layers at a competitive yield-to-cost ratio with distinctive MPL properties: high porosity, good stability, considerable durability, high hydrophobicity, and substantial conductivity. The specific morphological and structural properties were determined by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Thermo-gravimetric analysis was employed to study the nanostructures’ thermal stability and contact angle measurements were performed on the CNW substrate to study the hydrophobic character. Platinum ink, serving as a fuel cell catalyst, was sprayed directly onto the MPLs and incorporated in the FC assembly by hot-pressing against a polymeric membrane to form the membrane-electrode assembly and gas diffusion layers. Single-fuel-cell testing, at moderate temperature and humidity, revealed improved power performance comparable to industrial quality membrane assemblies (500 mW cm−2 mg−1 of cathodic Pt load at 80 °C and 80% RH), with elevated working potential (0.99 V) and impeccable fuel crossover for a low-cost system.

Dextran coated cerium doped hydroxyapatite (Ca10-xCex(PO4)6(OH)2), with x = 0.05 (5CeHAp-D) and x = 0.1 (10CeHAp-D) were deposited on Si substrates by radio frequency magnetron sputtering technique for the first time. The morphology, composition, and structure of the resulting coatings were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), atomic force microscopy (AFM), metallographic microscopy (MM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES), respectively. The obtained information on the surface morphologies, composition and structure was discussed. The surface morphologies of the CeHAp-D composite thin films are smooth with no granular structures. The constituent elements of the CeHAp-D target were identified. The results of the FTIR measurements highlighted the presence of peaks related to the presence of ν1, ν3, and ν4 vibration modes of (PO43−) groups from the hydroxyapatite (HAp) structure, together with those specific to the dextran structure. The biocompatibility assessment of 5CeHAp-D and 10CeHAp-D composite coatings was also discussed. The human cells maintained their specific elongated morphology after 24 h of incubation, which confirmed that the behavior of gingival fibroblasts and their proliferative capacity were not disturbed in the presence of 5CeHAp-D and 10CeHAp-D composite coatings. The 5CeHAp-D and 10CeHAp-D coatings’ surfaces were harmless to the human gingival fibroblasts, proving good biocompatibility.