Search Results (14)

Effective wound management remains a critical challenge in modern medicine, requiring a delicate balance among infection control, hemostasis, and tissue regeneration. Biopolymer-based hydrogels have emerged as leading candidates for medical use due to their biocompatibility, moisture-retention capabilities, and structural similarity to the natural ECM. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the transition from passive dressings to intelligent, multifunctional hydrogel scaffolds. We first examine the biological mechanisms of wound healing and the fundamental roles of hydrogels in maintaining an optimal microenvironment. Central to this discussion is the integration of conductive materials (including conductive polymers, carbon-based nanomaterials, and metal nanoparticles), which empower hydrogels with bio-sensing and electromechanical stimulation capabilities. Furthermore, we explore how 3D printing technologies enable the fabrication of personalized, high-precision scaffolds. The review also discusses the emerging role of integrated monitoring systems and machine learning algorithms in enhancing diagnostic accuracy. By synthesizing current research, this review identifies critical engineering hurdles and outlines the future trajectory toward automated, closed-loop wound-care systems in clinical practice. Ultimately, while these advanced electronic scaffolds offer revolutionary therapeutic paradigms, this review underscores that balancing electroconductivity with chronic cytocompatibility, refining multi-modal biosensor calibration, and navigating complex regulatory evaluation pathways remain critical prerequisites. Overcoming these fundamental translational bottlenecks is essential to realizing the next generation of automated clinical wound care. Full article

For decades, zirconia- and ceramic-based materials have dominated dental crown fabrication due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, a fundamental shift is occurring as polymeric alternatives emerge with notable advantages: better adhesive bonding, versatile aesthetics, lower costs, and a lighter weight. The advances in polymer chemistry and additive manufacturing have significantly impacted prosthodontics, allowing the rapid creation of highly customized, patient-specific restorations with a precision previously impossible (achieved through advanced Computer-Aided Design software and standardized 3D-printing equipment) with traditional methods. This review provides a detailed analysis of 3D-printed polymeric dental crowns from various angles. It explores the materials science behind different polymers, compares manufacturing methods, and evaluates the mechanical performance and biocompatibility. Despite the progress, polymeric materials still fall short of matching the mechanical properties of advanced ceramics, especially in compressive strength and wear resistance. Moreover, there is limited long-term clinical data over five to ten years. The lack of standardized testing protocols complicates cross-study comparisons, and the regulatory pathways for patient-specific 3D-printed devices are still developing, creating uncertainty for manufacturers and clinicians. The future prospective looks promising in many ways such as innovations like four-dimensional printing, where materials respond dynamically to environmental stimuli, which could enable crowns that adapt to changing oral conditions. Nanocomposites with functionalized nanoparticles might enhance mechanical properties while maintaining printability. AI-driven design optimization could automate and improve the crown morphology, occlusal contacts, and fit. Incorporating bioactive materials could turn crowns into active therapeutic devices that promote remineralization and combat bacterial colonization. This review summarizes the current knowledge, highlights the key gaps, and suggests steps toward establishing polymeric 3D-printed crowns as viable long-term alternatives capable of competing with or surpassing traditional ceramic options. Full article

Achieving targeted nanoparticle (NP) size and concentration combinations in Pulsed Laser Ablation in Liquid (PLAL) remains a challenge due to the highly nonlinear relationships between laser processing parameters and NP properties. Despite the promise of PLAL as a surfactant-free, scalable synthesis method, its industrial adoption is hindered by empirical trial-and-error approaches and the lack of predictive tools. The current literature offers limited application of machine learning (ML), particularly recommender systems, in PLAL optimization and automation. This study addresses this gap by introducing a ML-based recommender system trained on a 3 × 3 design of experiments with three replicates covering variables, such as fluence (1.83–1.91 J/cm²), ablation time (5–25 min), and laser scan speed (3000–3500 mm/s), in producing magnesium nanoparticles from powders. Multiple ML models were evaluated, including K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Random Forest, and Decision trees. The DT model achieved the best performance for predicting the NP size with a mean percentage error (MPE) of 10%. The XGBoost model was optimal for predicting the NP concentration attaining a competitive MPE of 2%. KNN and Cosine similarity recommender systems were developed based on a database generated by the ML predictions. This intelligent, data-driven framework demonstrates the potential of ML-guided PLAL for scalable, precise NP fabrication in industrial applications. Full article

The synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) via laser ablation synthesis in solution (LASiS) is a promising method for sustainable and efficient nanoparticle fabrication. This work investigates the transition from one-factor-at-a-time experimentation to a more efficient, multivariate approach for optimising NP production efficiency. By applying the Industry 4.0 principles, the objective is to digitise and automate laboratory processes to increase productivity and robustness. Design of Experiments (DoE) strategies, Taguchi orthogonal arrays and full-factorial design (FFD), have been employed to enhance laser ablation processes. Both models confirmed that increasing laser power led to higher colloid absorbance, with the Taguchi DoE offering rapid initial process mapping and FFD providing a higher-resolution analysis. The optimal laser repetition rate of 30 kHz was identified as a balance between pulse energy and thermal effects on the target, maximising ablation efficiency. The Taguchi model had a prediction of NP size with an R² value of 0.49, while the FFD struggled with accurate size prediction. Additionally, this study introduced a recirculation flow regime as a rapid test platform for predicting optimal conditions for continuous flow production. Using a semi-autonomous DoE platform decreased the operator involvement and increased the process selectivity. This proof-of-concept for on-the-bench NP rapid manufacturing demonstrated how efficient NP synthesis processes can be developed by clarifying the effects of varying parameters on colloid productivity, paving the way for broader industrial applications in the future. Full article

Despite advancements in the sensitivity and performance of analytical instruments, sample preparation remains a bottleneck in the analytical process. Currently, solid-phase extraction is more widely used than traditional organic solvent extraction due to its ease of use and lower solvent requirements. Moreover, various microextraction techniques such as micro solid-phase extraction, dispersive micro solid-phase extraction, solid-phase microextraction, stir bar sorptive extraction, liquid-phase microextraction, and magnetic bead extraction have been developed to minimize sample size, reduce solvent usage, and enable automation. Among these, in-tube solid-phase microextraction (IT-SPME) using capillaries as extraction devices has gained attention as an advanced “green extraction technique” that combines miniaturization, on-line automation, and reduced solvent consumption. Capillary tubes in IT-SPME are categorized into configurations: inner-wall-coated, particle-packed, fiber-packed, and rod monolith, operating either in a draw/eject system or a flow-through system. Additionally, the developments of novel adsorbents such as monoliths, ionic liquids, restricted-access materials, molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), graphene, carbon nanotubes, inorganic nanoparticles, and organometallic frameworks have improved extraction efficiency and selectivity. MIPs, in particular, are stable, custom-made polymers with molecular recognition capabilities formed during synthesis, making them exceptional “smart adsorbents” for selective sample preparation. The MIP fabrication process involves three main stages: pre-arrangement for recognition capability, polymerization, and template removal. After forming the template-monomer complex, polymerization creates a polymer network where the template molecules are anchored, and the final step involves removing the template to produce an MIP with cavities complementary to the template molecules. This review is the first paper to focus on advanced MIP-based IT-SPME, which integrates the selectivity of MIPs into efficient IT-SPME, and summarizes its recent developments and applications. Full article

A hybrid noble nanoparticle/DNAzyme electrochemical biosensor is proposed for the detection of Pb²⁺, Cd²⁺, and Cr³⁺. The sensor takes advantage of a well-studied material that is known for its selective interaction with heavy metal ions (i.e., DNAzymes), which is combined with metallic nanoparticles. The double-helix structure of DNAzymes is known to dissociate into smaller fragments in the presence of specific heavy metal ions; this results in a measurable change in device resistance due to the collapse of conductive inter-nanoparticle DNAzyme bridging. The paper discusses the effect of DNAzyme anchoring groups (i.e., thiol and amino functionalization groups) on device performance and reports on the successful detection of all three target ions in concentrations that are well below their maximum permitted levels in tap water. While the use of DNAzymes for the detection of lead in particular and, to some extent, cadmium has been studied extensively, this is one of the few reports on the successful detection of chromium (III) via a sensor incorporating DNAzymes. The sensor showed great potential for its future integration in autonomous and remote sensing systems due to its low power characteristics, simple and cost-effective fabrication, and easy automation and measurement. Full article

This study is aimed at the design, calibration, and development of a near-infrared (NIR) liquid crystal multifunctional automated optical polarimeter, which is aimed at the study and characterization of the polarimetric properties of polymer optical nanofilms. The characterization of these novel nanophotonic structures has been achieved, in terms of Mueller matrix and Stokes parameter analyses. The nanophotonic structures of this study consisted of (a) a matrix consisting of two different polymer domains, namely polybutadiene (PB) and polystyrene (PS), functionalized with gold nanoparticles; (b) cast and annealed Poly (styrene-b-methyl methacrylate) (PS-PMMA) diblock copolymers; (c) a matrix of a block copolymer (BCP) domain, PS-b-PMMA or Poly (styrene-block-methy methacrylate), functionalized with gold nanoparticles; and (d) different thicknesses of PS-b-P2VP diblock copolymer functionalized with gold nanoparticles. In all cases, backscattered infrared light was studied and related to the polarization figures-of-merit (FOM). The outcome of this study indicates that functionalized polymer nanomaterials, depending upon their structure and composition, exhibit promising optical characteristics, modulating and manipulating the polarimetric properties of light. The fabrication of technologically useful, tunable, conjugated polymer blends with an optimized refractive index, shape, size, spatial orientation, and arrangement would lead to the development of new nanoantennas and metasurfaces. Full article

Many articles have already been published dealing with silver ions and its nanoparticles, but mostly from the environmental and toxicological point of view. This article is a review focused on the various analytical techniques and detection platforms used in the separation and determination of mentioned above species, especially on the trace concentration level. Commonly used are optical methods because of their high sensitivity and easy automation. The separation methods are mainly used for the separation and preconcentration of silver particles. Their combination with other analytical techniques, mainly inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) leads to very low detection limits of analysis. The electrochemical methods are also powerful and perspective mainly because of the fabrication of new sensors designed for silver determination. All methods may be combined with each other to achieve a synergistic improvement of analytical parameters with an impact on sensitivity, selectivity and reliability. The paper comprises a review of all three types of analytical methods on the determination of trace quantities of silver ions and its nanoparticles. Full article

In this work we have compared two different sensing platforms for the detection of morphine as an example of a low molecular weight target analyte. For this, molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (NanoMIP), synthesized with an affinity towards morphine, were attached to an electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor. Assay design, sensors fabrication, analyte sensitivity and specificity were performed using similar methods. The results showed that the EIS sensor achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.11 ng·mL⁻¹, which is three orders of magnitude lower than the 0.19 µg·mL⁻¹ achieved using the QCM sensor. Both the EIS and the QCM sensors were found to be able to specifically detect morphine in a direct assay format. However, the QCM method required conjugation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to the small analyte (morphine) to amplify the signal and achieve a LOD in the µg·mL⁻¹ range. Conversely, the EIS sensor method was labor-intensive and required extensive data handling and processing, resulting in longer analysis times (~30–40 min). In addition, whereas the QCM enables visualization of the binding events between the target molecule and the sensor in real-time, the EIS method does not allow such a feature and measurements are taken post-binding. The work also highlighted the advantages of using QCM as an automated, rapid and multiplex sensor compared to the much simpler EIS platform used in this work, though, the QCM method will require sample preparation, especially when a sensitive (ng·mL⁻¹) detection of a small analyte is needed. Full article

In the present scenario, a considerable assiduity is provided to develop novel human-machine interface technologies that rapidly outpace the capabilities of display technology in automotive industries. It is necessary to use a new cockpit design in conjunction with a fully automated driving environment in order to enhance the driving experience. It can create a seamless and futuristic dashboard for automotive infotainment application. In the present study, an endeavor was made to equip the In-vehicle bezels with printed capacitive sensors for providing superior sensing capabilities. Silver Nanoparticles based interdigitated pattern electrodes were formed over polycarbonate substrates to make printed capacitive sensors using screen printing process. The developed sensor was investigated to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative measures using direct and in-direct contact of touch. The proposed approach for sensors pattern and fabrication can highly impact on sensor performance in automotive infotainment application due to the excellent spatial interpolation with lower cost, light weight, and mechanical flexibility. Full article

Micromixers are essential components in lab-on-a-chip devices, of which the low efficiency can limit many bio-application studies. Effective mixing with automation capabilities is still a crucial requirement. In this paper, we present a method to fabricate a three-dimensional (3D) poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) fluidic mixer by combining computer-aided design (CAD), micromilling technology, and experimental application via manipulating fluids and nanoparticles. The entire platform consists of three microfabricated layers with a bottom reservoir-shaped microchannel, a central serpentine channel, and a through-hole for interconnection and an upper layer containing inlets and outlet. The sealing process of the three layers and the high-precision and customizable methods used for fabrication ensure the realization of the monolithic 3D architecture. This provides buried running channels able to perform passive chaotic mixing and dilution functions, thanks to a portion of the pathway in common between the reservoir and serpentine layers. The possibility to plug-and-play micropumping systems allows us to easily demonstrate the feasibility and working features of our device for tracking the mixing and dilution performances of the micromixer by using colored fluids and fluorescent nanoparticles as the proof of concept. Exploiting the good transparency of the PMMA, spatial liquid composition and better control over reaction variables are possible, and the real-time monitoring of experiments under a fluorescence microscope is also allowed. The tools shown in this paper are easily integrable in more complex lab-on-chip platforms. Full article

The respiration rate (RR) is a key vital sign that links to adverse clinical outcomes and has various important uses. However, RR signals have been neglected in many clinical practices for several reasons and it is still difficult to develop low-cost RR sensors for accurate, automated, and continuous measurement. This study aims to fabricate, develop and evaluate a novel stretchable and wearable RR sensor that is low-cost and easy to use. The sensor is fabricated using the soft lithography technique of polydimethylsiloxane substrates (PDMS) for the stretchable sensor body and inkjet printing technology for creating the conductive circuit by depositing the silver nanoparticles on top of the PDMS substrates. The inkjet-printed (IJP) PDMS-based sensor was developed to detect the inductance fluctuations caused by respiratory volumetric changes. The output signal was processed in a Wheatstone bridge circuit to derive the RR. Six different patterns for a IJP PDMS-based sensor were carefully designed and tested. Their sustainability (maximum strain during measurement) and durability (the ability to go bear axial cyclic strains) were investigated and compared on an automated mechanical stretcher. Their repeatability (output of the sensor in repeated tests under identical condition) and reproducibility (output of different sensors with the same design under identical condition) were investigated using a respiratory simulator. The selected optimal design pattern from the simulator evaluation was used in the fabrication of the IJP PDMS-based sensor where the accuracy was inspected by attaching it to 37 healthy human subjects (aged between 19 and 34 years, seven females) and compared with the reference values from e-Health nasal sensor. Only one design survived the inspection procedures where design #6 (array consists of two horseshoe lines) indicated the best sustainability and durability, and went through the repeatability and reproducibility tests. Based on the best pattern, the developed sensor accurately measured the simulated RR with an error rate of 0.46 ± 0.66 beats per minute (BPM, mean ± SD). On human subjects, the IJP PDMS-based sensor and the reference e-Health sensor showed the same RR value, without any observable differences. The performance of the sensor was accurate with no apparent error compared with the reference sensor. Considering its low cost, good mechanical property, simplicity, and accuracy, the IJP PDMS-based sensor is a promising technique for continuous and wearable RR monitoring, especially under low-resource conditions. Full article

With the increased practice of preventative healthcare to help reduce costs worldwide, sensor technology improvement is vital to patient care. Point-of-care (POC) diagnostics can reduce time and lower labor in testing, and can effectively avoid transporting costs because of portable designs. Label-free detection allows for greater versatility in the detection of biological molecules. Here, we describe the use of an impedance-based POC biosensor that can detect changes in the surface modification of a micro-fabricated chip using impedance spectroscopy. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have been employed to evaluate the sensing ability of our new chip using impedance measurements. Furthermore, we used impedance measurements to monitor surface functionalization progress on the sensor’s interdigitated electrodes (IDEs). Electrodes made from aluminum and gold were employed and the results were analyzed to compare the impact of electrode material. GNPs coated with mercaptoundecanoic acid were also used as a model of biomolecules to greatly enhance chemical affinity to the silicon substrate. The portable sensor can be used as an alternative technology to ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based techniques. This system has advantages over PCR and ELISA both in the amount of time required for testing and the ease of use of our sensor. With other techniques, larger, expensive equipment must be utilized in a lab environment, and procedures have to be carried out by trained professionals. The simplicity of our sensor system can lead to an automated and portable sensing system. Full article

Improving the performance of traditional diagnostic lateral flow assays combined with new manufacturing technologies is a primary goal in the research and development plans of diagnostic companies. Taking into consideration the components of lateral flow diagnostic test kits; innovation can include modification of labels, materials and device design. In recent years, Resonance-Enhanced Absorption (REA) of metal nano-particles has shown excellent applicability in bio-sensing for the detection of a variety of bio-molecular binding interactions. In a novel approach, we have now integrated REA-assays in a diagnostic microfluidic setup thus resolving the bottleneck of long incubation times inherent in previously existing REA-assays and simultaneously integrated automated fabrication techniques for diagnostics manufacture. Due to the roller-coating based technology and chemical resistance, we used PET-co-polyester as a substrate and a CO₂ laser ablation system as a fast, highly precise and contactless alternative to classical micro-milling. It was possible to detect biological binding within three minutes – visible to the eye as colored text readout within the REA-fluidic device. A two-minute in-situ silver enhancement was able to enhance the resonant color additionally, if required. Full article