1. |
Nakielski P., Kosik-Kozioł A., Rinoldi C., Rybak D., Namdev M.♦, Jacob W.♦, Lehmann T.♦, Głowacki M.♦, Bogusz S.♦, Rzepna M.♦, Marinelli M.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Dror S.♦, Sarah M.♦, Dmitriy S.♦, Pierini F., Injectable PLGA Microscaffolds with Laser-Induced Enhanced Microporosity for Nucleus Pulposus Cell Delivery,
Small, ISSN: 1613-6810, DOI: 10.1002/smll.202404963, pp.2404963-1-15, 2024Abstract: Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a leading cause of lower back pain (LBP). Current treatments primarily address symptoms without halting the degenerative process. Cell transplantation offers a promising approach for early-stage IVD degeneration, but challenges such as cell viability, retention, and harsh host environments limit its efficacy. This study aimed to compare the injectability and biocompatibility of human nucleus pulposus cells (hNPC) attached to two types of microscaffolds designed for minimally invasive delivery to IVD. Microscaffolds are developed from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) using electrospinning and femtosecond laser structuration. These microscaffolds are tested for their physical properties, injectability, and biocompatibility. This study evaluates cell adhesion, proliferation, and survival in vitro and ex vivo within a hydrogel-based nucleus pulposus model. The microscaffolds demonstrate enhanced surface architecture, facilitating cell adhesion and proliferation. Laser structuration improved porosity, supporting cell attachment and extracellular matrix deposition. Injectability tests show that microscaffolds can be delivered through small-gauge needles with minimal force, maintaining high cell viability. The findings suggest that laser-structured PLGA microscaffolds are viable for minimally invasive cell delivery. These microscaffolds enhance cell viability and retention, offering potential improvements in the therapeutic efficiency of cell-based treatments for discogenic LBP. Affiliations:
Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Namdev M. | - | other affiliation | Jacob W. | - | other affiliation | Lehmann T. | - | other affiliation | Głowacki M. | - | Jagiellonian University (PL) | Bogusz S. | - | other affiliation | Rzepna M. | - | other affiliation | Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Dror S. | - | other affiliation | Sarah M. | - | other affiliation | Dmitriy S. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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2. |
Zaccagnini F.♦, De Biase D.♦, Bovieri F.♦, Perotto G.♦, Quagliarini E.♦, Bavasso I.♦, Mangino G.♦, Iuliano M.♦, Calogero A.♦, Romeo G.♦, Pratap Singh D.♦, Pierini F., Caracciolo G.♦, Petronella F.♦, De Sio L.♦, Multifunctional FFP2 Face Mask for White Light Disinfection and Pathogens Detection using Hybrid Nanostructures and Optical Metasurfaces,
Small, ISSN: 1613-6810, DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400531, pp.2400531-1-15, 2024Abstract: A new generation of an FFP2 (Filtering Face Piece of type 2) smart face mask is achieved by integrating broadband hybrid nanomaterials and a self-assembled optical metasurface. The multifunctional FFP2 face mask shows simultaneously white light-assisted on-demand disinfection properties and versatile biosensing capabilities. These properties are achieved by a powerful combination of white light thermoplasmonic responsive hybrid nanomaterials, which provide excellent photo-thermal disinfection properties, and optical metasurface-based colorimetric biosensors, with a very low limit of pathogens detection. The realized system is studied in optical, morphological, spectroscopic, and cell viability assay experiments and environmental monitoring of harmful pathogens, thus highlighting the extraordinary properties in reusability and pathogens detection of the innovative face mask. Affiliations:
Zaccagnini F. | - | other affiliation | De Biase D. | - | other affiliation | Bovieri F. | - | other affiliation | Perotto G. | - | other affiliation | Quagliarini E. | - | other affiliation | Bavasso I. | - | other affiliation | Mangino G. | - | other affiliation | Iuliano M. | - | other affiliation | Calogero A. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Romeo G. | - | other affiliation | Pratap Singh D. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Caracciolo G. | - | other affiliation | Petronella F. | - | other affiliation | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) |
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3. |
Kosik-Kozioł A., Nakielski P., Rybak D., Frączek W.♦, Rinoldi C., Lanzi M.♦, Grodzik M.♦, Pierini F., Adhesive Antibacterial Moisturizing Nanostructured Skin Patch for Sustainable Development of Atopic Dermatitis Treatment in Humans,
ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, ISSN: 1944-8244, DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c06662, Vol.16, No.25, pp.32128-32146, 2024Abstract: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a complex etiology that lacks effective treatment. The therapeutic goals include alleviating symptoms, such as moisturizing and applying antibacterial and anti-inflammatory medications. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop a patch that effectively alleviates most of the AD symptoms. In this study, we employed a “green” cross-linking approach of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) using glycerol, and we combined it with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) to fabricate core–shell (CS) nanofibers through electrospinning. Our designed structure offers multiple benefits as the core ensures controlled drug release and increases the strength of the patch, while the shell provides skin moisturization and exudate absorption. The efficient PVA cross-linking method facilitates the inclusion of sensitive molecules such as fermented oils. In vitro studies demonstrate the patches’ exceptional biocompatibility and efficacy in minimizing cell ingrowth into the CS structure containing argan oil, a property highly desirable for easy removal of the patch. Histological examinations conducted on an ex vivo model showed the nonirritant properties of developed patches. Furthermore, the eradication of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria confirms the potential use of CS nanofibers loaded with argan oil or norfloxacin, separately, as an antibacterial patch for infected AD wounds. In vivo patch application studies on patients, including one with AD, demonstrated ideal patches’ moisturizing effect. This innovative approach shows significant promise in enhancing life quality for AD sufferers by improving skin hydration and avoiding infections. Keywords: atopic dermatitis, core−shell electrospun nanofibers, antibacterial, mucoadhesive, moisturizing patch Affiliations:
Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Frączek W. | - | other affiliation | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Grodzik M. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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4. |
Bartolewska M., Kosik-Kozioł A., Korwek Z., Krysiak Z., Devis M.♦, Mazur M.♦, Giuseppe F.♦, Pierini F., Eumelanin-Enhanced Photothermal Disinfection of Contact Lenses Using a Sustainable Marine Nanoplatform Engineered with Electrospun Nanofibers,
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS, ISSN: 2192-2659, DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202402431, pp.2402431-1-21, 2024Abstract: Bacterial keratitis (BK) is a severe eye infection commonly associated with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), posing a significant risk to vision, especially among contact lens wearers. This research introduces a novel smart nanoplatform (deMS@cNF), developed from demineralized mussel shells (deMS) and reinforced with chitin (CT) nanofibrils, specifically designed for portable photothermal disinfection of contact lenses. The nanoplatform leverages the photothermal properties of eumelanin in mussel shells (MS), which, when activated by a simple bike flashlight, rapidly heats to temperatures up to 95 °C, effectively destroying bacterial contamination. In vitro tests demonstrate that the nanoplatform is biocompatible and non-toxic, making it suitable for medical applications. This study highlights an innovative approach to converting marine biowaste into a safe, effective, and low-cost portable method for disinfecting contact lenses, showcasing the potential of the deMS@cNF platform for broader antimicrobial applications. Affiliations:
Bartolewska M. | - | IPPT PAN | Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Korwek Z. | - | IPPT PAN | Krysiak Z. | - | IPPT PAN | Devis M. | - | other affiliation | Mazur M. | - | other affiliation | Giuseppe F. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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5. |
Ziai Y., Rinoldi C., Petronella F.♦, Zakrzewska A., De Sio L.♦, Pierini F., Lysozyme-sensitive plasmonic hydrogel nanocomposite for colorimetric dry-eye inflammation biosensing,
NANOSCALE, ISSN: 2040-3364, DOI: 10.1039/d4nr01701c, pp.1-11, 2024Abstract: Detection of lysozyme levels in ocular fluids is considered crucial for diagnosing and monitoring various health and eye conditions, including dry-eye syndrome. Hydrogel-based nanocomposites have been demonstrated to be one of the most promising platforms for fast and accurate sensing of different biomolecules. In this work, hydrogel, electrospun nanofibers, and plasmonic nanoparticles are combined to fabricate a sensitive and easy-to-use biosensor for lysozyme. Poly(L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) nanofibers were covered with silver nanoplates (AgNPls), providing a stable plasmonic platform, where a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-based (PNIPAAm) hydrogel layer allows mobility and good integration of the biomolecules. By integrating these components, the platform can also exhibit a colorimetric response to the concentration of lysozyme, allowing for easy and non-invasive monitoring. Quantitative biosensing operates on the principle of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) induced by plasmonic nanoparticles. Chemical, structural, thermal, and optical characterizations were performed on each platform layer, and the platform's ability to detect lysozyme at concentrations relevant to those found in tears of patients with dry-eye syndrome and other related diseases was investigated by colorimetry and UV-Vis spectroscopy. This biosensor's sensitivity and rapid response time, alongside the easy detection by the naked eye, make it a promising tool for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring of eye diseases. Affiliations:
Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Petronella F. | - | other affiliation | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | De Sio L. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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6. |
Rybak D., Rinoldi C., Nakielski P., Du J.♦, Haghighat Bayan M.A., Zargarian S. S., Pruchniewski M.♦, Li X.♦, Strojny-Cieślak B.♦, Ding B.♦, Pierini F., Injectable and self-healable nano-architectured hydrogel for NIR-light responsive chemo- and photothermal bacterial eradication,
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY B , ISSN: 2050-7518, DOI: 10.1039/D3TB02693K, pp.1-21, 2024Abstract: Hydrogels with multifunctional properties activated at specific times have gained significant attention in the biomedical field. As bacterial infections can cause severe complications that negatively impact wound repair, herein, we present the development of a stimuli-responsive, injectable, and in situ-forming hydrogel with antibacterial, self-healing, and drug-delivery properties. In this study, we prepared a Pluronic F-127 (PF127) and sodium alginate (SA)-based hydrogel that can be targeted to a specific tissue via injection. The PF127/SA hydrogel was incorporated with polymeric short-filaments (SFs) containing an anti-inflammatory drug – ketoprofen, and stimuli-responsive polydopamine (PDA) particles. The hydrogel, after injection, could be in situ gelated at the body temperature, showing great in vitro stability and self-healing ability after 4 h of incubation. The SFs and PDA improved the hydrogel injectability and compressive strength. The introduction of PDA significantly accelerated the KET release under near-infrared light exposure and extended its release validity period. The excellent composites’ photo-thermal performance led to antibacterial activity against representative Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, resulting in 99.9% E. coli and S. aureus eradication after 10 min of NIR light irradiation. In vitro, fibroblast L929 cell studies confirmed the materials’ biocompatibility and paved the way toward further in vivo and clinical application of the system for chronic wound treatments. Affiliations:
Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Du J. | - | University of California (US) | Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian S. S. | - | IPPT PAN | Pruchniewski M. | - | other affiliation | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Strojny-Cieślak B. | - | other affiliation | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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7. |
Haghighat Bayan M.A., Rinoldi C., Rybak D., Zargarian S. S., Zakrzewska A., Cegielska O., Põhako-Palu K.♦, Zhang S.♦, Stobnicka-Kupiec A.♦, Górny Rafał L.♦, Nakielski P., Kogermann K.♦, De Sio L.♦, Ding B.♦, Pierini F., Engineering surgical face masks with photothermal and photodynamic plasmonic nanostructures for enhancing filtration and on-demand pathogen eradication,
Biomaterials Science, ISSN: 2047-4849, DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01125a, pp.1-15, 2024Abstract: The shortage of face masks and the lack of antipathogenic functions has been significant since the recent pandemic's inception. Moreover, the disposal of an enormous number of contaminated face masks not only carries a significant environmental impact but also escalates the risk of cross-contamination. This study proposes a strategy to upgrade available surgical masks into antibacterial masks with enhanced particle and bacterial filtration. Plasmonic nanoparticles can provide photodynamic and photothermal functionalities for surgical masks. For this purpose, gold nanorods act as on-demand agents to eliminate pathogens on the surface of the masks upon near-infrared light irradiation. Additionally, the modified masks are furnished with polymer electrospun nanofibrous layers. These electrospun layers can enhance the particle and bacterial filtration efficiency, not at the cost of the pressure drop of the mask. Consequently, fabricating these prototype masks could be a practical approach to upgrading the available masks to alleviate the environmental toll of disposable face masks. Affiliations:
Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian S. S. | - | IPPT PAN | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Cegielska O. | - | IPPT PAN | Põhako-Palu K. | - | other affiliation | Zhang S. | - | other affiliation | Stobnicka-Kupiec A. | - | other affiliation | Górny Rafał L. | - | other affiliation | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Kogermann K. | - | other affiliation | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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8. |
Haghighat Bayan M.A., Rinoldi C., Kosik-Kozioł A., Bartolewska M., Rybak D., Zargarian S., Shah S., Krysiak Z., Zhang S.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Nakielski P., Ding B.♦, Pierini F., Solar-to-NIR Light Activable PHBV/ICG Nanofiber-Based Face Masks with On-Demand Combined Photothermal and Photodynamic Antibacterial Properties,
Advanced Materials Technologies, ISSN: 2365-709X, DOI: 10.1002/admt.202400450, pp.2400450-1-18, 2024Abstract: Hierarchical nanostructures fabricate by electrospinning in combination with light-responsive agents offer promising scenarios for developing novel activable antibacterial interfaces. This study introduces an innovative antibacterial face mask developed from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) nanofibers integrated with indocyanine green (ICG), targeting the urgent need for effective antimicrobial protection for community health workers. The research focuses on fabricating and characterizing this nanofibrous material, evaluating the mask's mechanical and chemical properties, investigating its particle filtration, and assessing antibacterial efficacy under photothermal conditions for reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The PHBV/ICG nanofibers are produced using an electrospinning process, and the nanofibrous construct's morphology, structure, and photothermal response are investigated. The antibacterial efficacy of the nanofibers is tested, and substantial bacterial inactivation under both near-infrared (NIR) and solar irradiation is demonstrated due to the photothermal response of the nanofibers. The material's photothermal response is further analyzed under cyclic irradiation to simulate real-world conditions, confirming its durability and consistency. This study highlights the synergistic impact of PHBV and ICG in enhancing antibacterial activity, presenting a biocompatible and environmentally friendly solution. These findings offer a promising path for developing innovative face masks that contribute significantly to the field of antibacterial materials and solve critical public health challenges. Affiliations:
Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Bartolewska M. | - | IPPT PAN | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian S. | - | IPPT PAN | Shah S. | - | IPPT PAN | Krysiak Z. | - | IPPT PAN | Zhang S. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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9. |
Zargarian S., Zakrzewska A., Kosik-Kozioł A., Bartolewska M., Shah S., Li X.♦, Su Q.♦, Petronella F.♦, Marinelli M.♦, De Sio L.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Ding B.♦, Pierini F., Advancing resource sustainability with green photothermal materials: Insights from organic waste-derived and bioderived sources,
nanotechnology reviews, ISSN: 2191-9097, DOI: 10.1515/ntrev-2024-0100, Vol.13, No.1, pp.20240100-1-39, 2024Abstract: Recently, there has been a surge of interest in developing new types of photothermal materials driven by the ongoing demand for efficient energy conversion, environmental concerns, and the need for sustainable solutions. However, many existing photothermal materials face limitations such as high production costs or narrow absorption bands, hindering their widespread application. In response to these challenges, researchers have redirected their focus toward harnessing the untapped potential of organic waste-derived and bioderived materials. These materials, with photothermal properties derived from their intrinsic composition or transformative processes, offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative. This review provides an extended categorization of organic waste-derived and bioderived materials based on their origin. Additionally, we investigate the mechanisms underlying the photothermal properties of these materials. Key findings highlight their high photothermal efficiency and versatility in applications such as water and energy harvesting, desalination, biomedical applications, deicing, waste treatment, and environmental remediation. Through their versatile utilization, they demonstrate immense potential in fostering sustainability and support the transition toward a greener and more resilient future. The authors’ perspective on the challenges and potentials of platforms based on these materials is also included, highlighting their immense potential for real-world implementation. Keywords: photothermal materials, organic waste valorization, bioderived materials Affiliations:
Zargarian S. | - | IPPT PAN | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Bartolewska M. | - | IPPT PAN | Shah S. | - | IPPT PAN | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Su Q. | - | other affiliation | Petronella F. | - | other affiliation | Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | De Sio L. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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10. |
Zargarian S., Kupikowska-Stobba B., Kosik-Kozioł A., Bartolewska M., Zakrzewska A., Rybak D., Bochenek K., Osial M., Pierini F., Light-responsive biowaste-derived and bio-inspired textiles: Dancing between bio-friendliness and antibacterial functionality,
Materials Today Chemistry, ISSN: 2468-5194, DOI: 10.1016/j.mtchem.2024.102281, Vol.41, pp.102281-1-15, 2024Abstract: Functional antibacterial textiles fabricated from a hybrid of organic waste-derived and bio-inspired materials offer sustainable solutions for preventing microbial infections. In this work, we developed a novel antibacterial textile created through the valorization of spent coffee grounds (SCG). Electrospinning and electrospraying techniques were employed to integrate the biowaste within a polymeric nanofiber matrix, ensuring uniform particle distribution and providing structural support for enhanced applicability. Modification with polydopamine (PDA) significantly enhanced the textile's photothermal performance. Specific attention was paid to understanding the relation between temperature change and key variables, including the surrounding liquid volume, textile layer stacking, and applied laser power. Developed platforms demonstrated excellent photothermal stability. While the SCG-based textile demonstrated exceptional biocompatibility, the PDA-modified textile effectively eradicated Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. The developed textiles in our work demonstrate a dynamic balance between biocompatibility and on-demand antibacterial functionality, offering adaptable solutions in accordance with the desired application. Keywords: Organic waste valorization, Spent coffee grounds, Micro-nanostructured textiles, Bio-inspired photothermal agents, Polydopamine, Antibacterial textiles Affiliations:
Zargarian S. | - | IPPT PAN | Kupikowska-Stobba B. | - | IPPT PAN | Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Bartolewska M. | - | IPPT PAN | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Bochenek K. | - | IPPT PAN | Osial M. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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11. |
Marinelli M.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Quadretti D.♦, Ziai Y., Pierini F., Zanelli A.♦, Riccardo M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, A new alcohol-soluble dye-tetraphenyl porphyrin functionalized copolymer: Inside the role as a third component/cathode interlayer in halogen-free OSCs,
REACTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS, ISSN: 1381-5148, DOI: 10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2024.105928, Vol.200, pp.105928-1-10, 2024Abstract: Development and step-by-step characterizations of a novel cationic thiophene based copolymer (P1buP), including ionic phosphonium salt and dye-tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) moiety in side chains, with an iconic property of solubility in a wide range of polar solvents is reported. Synthesized by using simple, low-cost, and straightforward procedures, the material is used to fabricate completely halogen-free (i.e., from ethanol) ternary organic solar cells (OSCs), in the presence of an alcohol-soluble ionic 3,4-dialkoxythiophene based homopolymer (P2buP) and a serinol-fullerene derivative (C60-Ser). Indeed, thanks to co-sensitization techniques, where multiple dyes harvest different parts of the solar spectrum, the power conversion efficiency of the best final device dramatically increases up to nearly 5.0%, as the light absorption is usually optimized. Additionally, since the use of a cathode interlayer in OSCs also plays a pivotal role in electron extraction and device stability, a possible application of the ionic TPP material as the interfacial layer is also investigated. Furthermore, to improve and optimize the best performing device, a successful post-metalation with Zn of the porphyrin core is carried out, and a ternary OSC (P1buP:P2buP:C60-Ser = 0.33:0.67:1 w/w) is fabricated, resulting in a photoconversion efficiency (PCE) of ∼6.0%. Keywords: Ionic dye-tetraphenylporphyrin, Co-sensitization, Ternary OSCs, Cathode interlayers, Halogen-free deposition Affiliations:
Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Quadretti D. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Zanelli A. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Riccardo M. | - | other affiliation | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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12. |
Ziai Y., Lanzi M.♦, Rinoldi C., Zargarian S. S., Zakrzewska A., Kosik-Kozioł A., Nakielski P., Pierini F., Developing strategies to optimize the anchorage between electrospun nanofibers and hydrogels for multi-layered plasmonic biomaterials,
Nanoscale Advances, ISSN: 2516-0230, DOI: 10.1039/d3na01022h, pp.1-13, 2024Abstract: Polycaprolactone (PCL), a recognized biopolymer, has emerged as a prominent choice for diverse biomedical endeavors due to its good mechanical properties, exceptional biocompatibility, and tunable properties. These attributes render PCL a suitable alternative biomaterial to use in biofabrication, especially the electrospinning technique, facilitating the production of nanofibers with varied dimensions and functionalities. However, the inherent hydrophobicity of PCL nanofibers can pose limitations. Conversely, acrylamide-based hydrogels, characterized by their interconnected porosity, significant water retention, and responsive behavior, present an ideal matrix for numerous biomedical applications. By merging these two materials, one can harness their collective strengths while potentially mitigating individual limitations. A robust interface and effective anchorage during the composite fabrication are pivotal for the optimal performance of the nanoplatforms. Nanoplatforms are subject to varying degrees of tension and physical alterations depending on their specific applications. This is particularly pertinent in the case of layered nanostructures, which require careful consideration to maintain structural stability and functional integrity in their intended applications. In this study, we delve into the influence of the fiber dimensions, orientation and surface modifications of the nanofibrous layer and the hydrogel layer's crosslinking density on their intralayer interface to determine the optimal approach. Comprehensive mechanical pull-out tests offer insights into the interfacial adhesion and anchorage between the layers. Notably, plasma treatment of the hydrophobic nanofibers and the stiffness of the hydrogel layer significantly enhance the mechanical effort required for fiber extraction from the hydrogels, indicating improved anchorage. Furthermore, biocompatibility assessments confirm the potential biomedical applications of the proposed nanoplatforms. Affiliations:
Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian S. S. | - | IPPT PAN | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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13. |
Nakielski P., Rybak D., Jezierska-Woźniak K.♦, Rinoldi C., Sinderewicz E.♦, Staszkiewicz-Chodor J.♦, Haghighat Bayan M.A., Czelejewska W.♦, Urbanek-Świderska O., Kosik-Kozioł A., Barczewska M.♦, Skomorowski M.♦, Holak P.♦, Lipiński S.♦, Maksymowicz W.♦, Pierini F., Minimally invasive intradiscal delivery of BM-MSCs via fibrous microscaffold carriers,
ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, ISSN: 1944-8244, DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c11710, pp.1-16, 2023Abstract: Current treatments of degenerated intervertebral discs often provide only temporary relief or address specific causes, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapies. Cell-based regenerative approaches showed promise in many clinical trials, but
limitations such as cell death during injection and a harsh disk environment hinder their effectiveness. Injectable microscaffolds offer a solution by providing a supportive microenvironment for cell delivery and enhancing bioactivity. This study evaluated the
safety and feasibility of electrospun nanofibrous microscaffolds modified with chitosan (CH) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) for treating degenerated NP tissue in a large animal model. The microscaffolds facilitated cell attachment and acted as an effective delivery system, preventing cell leakage under a high disc pressure. Combining microscaffolds with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells demonstrated no cytotoxic effects and proliferation over the entire microscaffolds. The administration of cells attached to microscaffolds into the NP positively influenced the regeneration process of the intervertebral disc. Injectable poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) and poly(L-lactide) microscaffolds enriched with CH or CS, having a fibrous structure, showed the potential to promote intervertebral disc regeneration. These features collectively address critical challenges in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, particularly in the context of intervertebral disc degeneration. Keywords: microscaffolds,cell carriers,injectable biomaterials,intervertebral disc,laser micromachining,electrospinning Affiliations:
Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Jezierska-Woźniak K. | - | other affiliation | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Sinderewicz E. | - | other affiliation | Staszkiewicz-Chodor J. | - | other affiliation | Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Czelejewska W. | - | other affiliation | Urbanek-Świderska O. | - | IPPT PAN | Kosik-Kozioł A. | - | IPPT PAN | Barczewska M. | - | University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn (PL) | Skomorowski M. | - | other affiliation | Holak P. | - | other affiliation | Lipiński S. | - | other affiliation | Maksymowicz W. | - | University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn (PL) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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14. |
Rinoldi C., Ziai Y., Zargarian Seyed S., Nakielski P., Zembrzycki K., Haghighat Bayan M.A., Zakrzewska A., Fiorelli R., Lanzi M.♦, Kostrzewska-Księżyk A.♦, Czajkowski R.♦, Kublik E.♦, Kaczmarek L.♦, Pierini F., In Vivo Chronic Brain Cortex Signal Recording Based on a Soft Conductive Hydrogel Biointerface,
ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, ISSN: 1944-8244, DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c17025, Vol.15, No.5, pp.6283-6296, 2023Abstract: In neuroscience, the acquisition of neural signals from the brain cortex is crucial to analyze brain processes, detect neurological disorders, and offer therapeutic brain–computer interfaces. The design of neural interfaces conformable to the brain tissue is one of today’s major challenges since the insufficient biocompatibility of those systems provokes a fibrotic encapsulation response, leading to an inaccurate signal recording and tissue damage precluding long-term/permanent implants. The design and production of a novel soft neural biointerface made of polyacrylamide hydrogels loaded with plasmonic silver nanocubes are reported herein. Hydrogels are surrounded by a silicon-based template as a supporting element for guaranteeing an intimate neural-hydrogel contact while making possible stable recordings from specific sites in the brain cortex. The nanostructured hydrogels show superior electroconductivity while mimicking the mechanical characteristics of the brain tissue. Furthermore, in vitro biological tests performed by culturing neural progenitor cells demonstrate the biocompatibility of hydrogels along with neuronal differentiation. In vivo chronic neuroinflammation tests on a mouse model show no adverse immune response toward the nanostructured hydrogel-based neural interface. Additionally, electrocorticography acquisitions indicate that the proposed platform permits long-term efficient recordings of neural signals, revealing the suitability of the system as a chronic neural biointerface. Keywords: brain−machine interface,conductive hydrogels,nanostructured biomaterials,in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility,long-term neural recording Affiliations:
Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian Seyed S. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Fiorelli R. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Kostrzewska-Księżyk A. | - | other affiliation | Czajkowski R. | - | other affiliation | Kublik E. | - | other affiliation | Kaczmarek L. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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15. |
Zangoli M.♦, Monti F.♦, Zanelli A.♦, Marinelli M.♦, Flammini S.♦, Spallacci N.♦, Zakrzewska A., Lanzi M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Pierini F., Di Maria F.♦, Multifunctional Photoelectroactive Materials for Optoelectronic Applications Based on Thieno[3,4-b]pyrazines and Thieno[1,2,5]thiadiazoles,
Chemistry - A European Journal, ISSN: 0947-6539, DOI: 10.1002/chem.202303590, pp.1-18, 2023Abstract: In this study, we introduce a novel family of symmetrical thiophene-based small molecules with a Donor–Acceptor–Donor structure. These compounds feature three different acceptor units: benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (Bz), thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine (Pz), and thieno[1,2,5]thiadiazole (Tz), coupled with electron donor units based on a carbazole-thiophene derivative. Using Density Functional Theory (DFT), we investigate how the molecular geometry and strength of the central acceptor unit impact the redox and spectroscopic properties. Notably, the incorporation of Pz and Tz moieties induces a significant redshift in the absorption and emission spectra, which extend into the near-infrared (NIR) region, simultaneously reducing their energy gaps (~1.4-1.6 eV). This shift is attributed to the increased coplanarity of the oligomeric inner core, both in the ground (S0) and excited (S1) states, due to the enhanced quinoidal character as supported by bond-length alternation (BLA) analysis. These structural changes promote better π-electron delocalization and facilitate photoinduced charge transfer processes in optoelectronic devices. Notably, we show that Pz- and Tz-containing molecules exhibit NIR electrochromic behavior and present ambivalent character in bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells. Finally, theoretical calculations suggest that these molecules could serve as effective two-photon absorption (2PA) probes, further expanding their potential in optoelectronic applications. Affiliations:
Zangoli M. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Monti F. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Zanelli A. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Flammini S. | - | other affiliation | Spallacci N. | - | other affiliation | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Di Maria F. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) |
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16. |
Ziai Y., Zargarian S. S., Rinoldi C., Nakielski P., Sola A.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Truong Yen B.♦, Pierini F., Conducting polymer-based nanostructured materials for brain–machine interfaces,
WIREs Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology, ISSN: 1939-0041, DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1895, Vol.15, No.5, pp.e1895-1-33, 2023Abstract: As scientists discovered that raw neurological signals could translate into bioelectric information, brain–machine interfaces (BMI) for experimental and clinical studies have experienced massive growth. Developing suitable materials for bioelectronic devices to be used for real-time recording and data digitalizing has three important necessitates which should be covered. Biocompatibility, electrical conductivity, and having mechanical properties similar to soft brain tissue to decrease mechanical mismatch should be adopted for all materials. In this review, inorganic nanoparticles and intrinsically conducting polymers are discussed to impart electrical conductivity to systems, where soft materials such as hydrogels can offer reliable mechanical properties and a biocompatible substrate. Interpenetrating hydrogel networks offer more mechanical stability and provide a path for incorporating polymers with desired properties into one strong network. Promising fabrication methods, like electrospinning and additive manufacturing, allow scientists to customize designs for each application and reach the maximum potential for the system. In the near future, it is desired to fabricate biohybrid conducting polymer-based interfaces loaded with cells, giving the opportunity for simultaneous stimulation and regeneration. Developing multi-modal BMIs, Using artificial intelligence and machine learning to design advanced materials are among the future goals for this field. Keywords: 3D printing,brain–machine interface,conductive hydrogels,electrospinning,neural recording Affiliations:
Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian S. S. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Sola A. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Truong Yen B. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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17. |
Rybak D., Su Y.♦, Li Y.♦, Ding B.♦, Lv X.♦, Li Z.♦, Yeh Y.♦, Nakielski P., Rinoldi C., Pierini F., Dodda Jagan M.♦, Evolution of nanostructured skin patches towards multifunctional wearable platforms for biomedical applications,
NANOSCALE, ISSN: 2040-3364, DOI: 10.1039/D3NR00807J, Vol.15, No.18, pp.8044-8083, 2023Abstract: Recent advances in the field of skin patches have promoted the development of wearable and implantable bioelectronics for long-term, continuous healthcare management and targeted therapy. However, the design of electronic skin (e-skin) patches with stretchable components is still challenging and requires an in-depth understanding of the skin-attachable substrate layer, functional biomaterials and advanced self-powered electronics. In this comprehensive review, we present the evolution of skin patches from functional nanostructured materials to multi-functional and stimuli-responsive patches towards flexible substrates and emerging biomaterials for e-skin patches, including the material selection, structure design and promising applications. Stretchable sensors and self-powered e-skin patches are also discussed, ranging from electrical stimulation for clinical procedures to continuous health monitoring and integrated systems for comprehensive healthcare management. Moreover, an integrated energy harvester with bioelectronics enables the fabrication of self-powered electronic skin patches, which can effectively solve the energy supply and overcome the drawbacks induced by bulky battery-driven devices. However, to realize the full potential offered by these advancements, several challenges must be addressed for next-generation e-skin patches. Finally, future opportunities and positive outlooks are presented on the future directions of bioelectronics. It is believed that innovative material design, structure engineering, and in-depth study of fundamental principles can foster the rapid evolution of electronic skin patches, and eventually enable self-powered close-looped bioelectronic systems to benefit mankind. Affiliations:
Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Su Y. | - | other affiliation | Li Y. | - | other affiliation | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Lv X. | - | other affiliation | Li Z. | - | other affiliation | Yeh Y. | - | other affiliation | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Dodda Jagan M. | - | other affiliation |
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18. |
Wang M.♦, Du J.♦, Li M.S.♦, Pierini F., Li X.♦, Yu J.♦, Ding B.♦, In situ forming double-crosslinked hydrogels with highly dispersed short fibers for the treatment of irregular wounds,
Biomaterials Science, ISSN: 2047-4849, DOI: 10.1039/D2BM01891H, Vol.11, No.7, pp.2383-2394, 2023Abstract: In situ forming injectable hydrogels hold great potential for the treatment of irregular wounds. However, their practical applications were hindered by long gelation time, poor mechanical performance, and a lack of a natural extracellular matrix structure. Herein, amino-modified electrospun poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (APLGA) short fibers with uniform distribution were introduced into gelatin methacrylate/oxidized dextran (GM/ODex) hydrogels. In comparison with the fiber aggregation structure in the PLGA fiber-incorporated hydrogels, the hydrogels with APLGA fibers possessed a uniform porous structure. The highly dispersed APLGA short fibers accelerated the sol–gel phase transition of the hydrogel due to the formation of dynamic Schiff-base bonds between the fibers and hydrogels. Furthermore, in combination with UV-assisted crosslinking, a rapid gelation time of 90 s was achieved for the double-crosslinked hydrogels. The addition of APLGA short fibers as fillers and the formation of the double-crosslinking network enhanced the mechanical performance of the hydrogels. Furthermore, the fiber–hydrogel composites exhibited favorable injectability, excellent biocompatibility, and improved cell infiltration. In vivo assessment indicated that the GM/ODex-APLGA hydrogels successfully filled the full-thickness defects and improved wound healing. This work demonstrates a promising solution for the treatment of irregular wounds. Affiliations:
Wang M. | - | other affiliation | Du J. | - | University of California (US) | Li M.S. | - | Institute of Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences (PL) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Yu J. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) |
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19. |
Paradiso A.♦, Volpi M.♦, Rinoldi C., Celikkin N.♦, Contessi Negrini N.♦, Bilgen M.♦, Dallera G.♦, Pierini F., Costantini M.♦, Święszkowski W.♦, Farè S.♦, In vitro functional models for human liver diseases and drug screening: beyond animal testing,
Biomaterials Science, ISSN: 2047-4849, DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01872h, Vol.11, No.9, pp.2988-3015, 2023 | |
20. |
Peringath Anjana R.♦, Haghighat Bayan M.A., Beg M.♦, Jain A., Pierini F., Gadegaard N.♦, Hogg R.♦, Manjakkal L.♦, Chemical synthesis of polyaniline and polythiophene electrodes with excellent performance in supercapacitors,
Journal of Energy Storage, ISSN: 2352-152X, DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2023.108811, Vol.73, No.Part A, pp.108811-1-9, 2023Abstract: The emergence of portable electronics in miniaturized and intelligent devices demands high-performance supercapacitors (SC) and batteries as power sources. For the fabrication of such energy storage devices, conducting polymers (CPs) have significant advantages due to their high theoretical capacitive performance and conductivity. In this work, we developed two CPs including polyaniline and polythiophene through a low-cost chemically synthesized approach and the film-by-spin coating method. The structural and morphological properties of the CPs are analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), contact angle measurement, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Based on these CPs, novel pristine polyaniline and polythiophene-based SCs (PASC and PTSC) are developed. The prepared CPs contribute to high electrochemical performances due to their high conductive nature of the electrode and conjugated polymer materials reaction. Hence both electrochemical double-layer formation and pseudocapacitance contributed to the energy-storing performances of the device. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopic analysis (0.1 Hz to 100 kHz) demonstrates faster ionic exchange and high capacitance of the PASC electrode as compared to PTSC in H3PO4 electrolyte. The PASC devices exhibit specific capacitance of 13.22 mF·cm−2 with energy and power densities of 1.175 μW·h·cm−2 and 4.99 μW·cm−2 at a current of 50 μA. Compared to PTSC (specific capacitance 3.30 mF·cm−2) the PASC shows four times higher specific capacitance due to its improved surface, structural and electrical properties. The electrochemical performance reveals the superior SC performance for this type of CP electrode. Keywords: Conductive polymers, Spin coating, Polyaniline, Polythiophene, Supercapacitor, Electrochemical performances Affiliations:
Peringath Anjana R. | - | other affiliation | Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Beg M. | - | other affiliation | Jain A. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Gadegaard N. | - | other affiliation | Hogg R. | - | other affiliation | Manjakkal L. | - | other affiliation |
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21. |
Jain A., Ziai Y., Bochenek K., Manippady Sai R., Pierini F., Michalska M.♦, Utilization of compressible hydrogels as electrolyte materials for supercapacitor applications,
RSC Advances, ISSN: 2046-2069, DOI: 10.1039/d3ra00893b, Vol.13, pp.11503-11512, 2023Abstract: Utilization of CoO@Co3O4-x-Ag (x denotes 1, 3, and 5 wt% of Ag) nanocomposites as supercapacitor electrodes is the main aim of this study. A new low-temperature wet chemical approach is proposed to modify the commercial cobalt oxide material with silver nanoparticle (NP) balls of size 1–5 nm. The structure and morphology of the as-prepared nanocomposites were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and N2 adsorption–desorption measurements. Hydrogels known to be soft but stable structures were used here as perfect carriers for conductive nanoparticles such as carbons. Furthermore, hydrogels with a large amount of water in their network can give more flexibility to the system. Fabrication of an electrochemical cell can be achieved by combining these materials with a layer-by-layer structure. The performance characteristics of the cells were examined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and galvanostatic charge discharge (GCD). Cobalt oxide modified with 5 wt% Ag gave the best supercapacitor results, and the cell offers a specific capacitance of ∼38 mF cm−2 in two-electrode configurations. Affiliations:
Jain A. | - | IPPT PAN | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Bochenek K. | - | IPPT PAN | Manippady Sai R. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Michalska M. | - | Łukasiewicz Research Network‒Institute of Electronic Materials Technology (PL) |
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22. |
Zembrzycki K., Pawłowska S.♦, Pierini F., Kowalewski T.A., Brownian Motion in Optical Tweezers, a Comparison between MD Simulations and Experimental Data in the Ballistic Regime,
Polymers, ISSN: 2073-4360, DOI: 10.3390/polym15030787, Vol.15, No.3, pp.787-1-13, 2023Abstract: The four most popular water models in molecular dynamics were studied in large-scale simulations of Brownian motion of colloidal particles in optical tweezers and then compared with experimental measurements in the same time scale. We present the most direct comparison of col- loidal polystyrene particle diffusion in molecular dynamics simulations and experimental data on the same time scales in the ballistic regime. The four most popular water models, all of which take into account electrostatic interactions, are tested and compared based on yielded results and re- sources required. Three different conditions were simulated: a freely moving particle and one in a potential force field with two different strengths based on 1 pN/nm and 10 pN/nm. In all cases, the diameter of the colloidal particle was 50 nm. The acquired data were compared with experimental measurements performed using optical tweezers with position capture rates as high as 125 MHz. The experiments were performed in pure water on polystyrene particles with a 1 μm diameter in special microchannel cells. Keywords: Brownian motion,molecular dynamics,optical tweezers,ballistic regime Affiliations:
Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Pawłowska S. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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23. |
Quadretti D.♦, Marinelli M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Pierini F., Zanelli A.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Effects of Water/Alcohol Soluble Cationic Polythiophenes as Cathode Interlayers for Eco-Friendly Solar Cells,
Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics, ISSN: 1022-1352, DOI: 10.1002/macp.202200422, Vol.224, No.6, pp.2200422-1-14, 2023Abstract: Three new ionic polythiophene derivatives, soluble in polar solvents, are synthesized with good yields using simple, low-cost, and straightforward procedures. They are investigated as interfacial cationic conjugated
polyelectrolyte (CPE) layers for halogen-free bulk heterojunction polymeric solar cells, based on a water-soluble electron-donor polymer
(poly[3-(6-diethanolaminohexyl)thiophene]) and a water-soluble electron-acceptor fullerene derivative (malonodiserinolamide fullerene). The simple insertion of the CPE interlayer between the active layer and the aluminum cathode dramatically increases the power conversion efficiency of the final device up to nearly 5%, resulting from a decrease of the electrode work function, improved electron extraction, and optimization of the morphology of the layers. The obtained results demonstrate that the incorporation of CPE layer is a powerful and convenient methodology for the
development of highly efficient and eco-friendly processable polymeric solar cells.
Keywords: conjugated polyelectrolyte,electron transport layers,polythiophene Affiliations:
Quadretti D. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Zanelli A. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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24. |
Zakrzewska A., Zargarian S.S., Rinoldi C., Gradys A.D., Jarząbek D.M., Zanoni M.♦, Gualandi C.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Pierini F., Electrospun Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Based Conductive Semi-interpenetrating Polymer Network Fibrous Hydrogel: A Toolbox for Optimal Cross-Linking,
ACS Materials Au, ISSN: 2694-2461, DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialsau.3c00025, Vol.3, No.5, pp.464-482, 2023Abstract: Cross-linking of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) creates a three-dimensional network by bonding adjacent polymer chains. The cross-linked structure, upon immersion in water, turns into a hydrogel, which exhibits unique absorption properties due to the presence of hydrophilic groups within the PVA polymer chains and, simultaneously, ceases to be soluble in water. The properties of PVA can be adjusted by chemical modification or blending with other substances, such as polymers, e.g., conductive poly[3-(potassium-5-butanoate)thiophene-2,5-diyl] (P3KBT). In this work, PVA-based conductive semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs) are successfully fabricated. The systems are obtained as a result of electrospinning of PVA/P3KBT precursor solutions with different polymer concentrations and then cross-linking using “green”, environmentally safe methods. One approach consists of thermal treatment (H), while the second approach combines stabilization with ethanol and heating (E). The comprehensive characterization allows to evaluate the correlation between the cross-linking methods and properties of nanofibrous hydrogels. While both methods are successful, the cross-linking density is higher in the thermally cross-linked samples, resulting in lower conductivity and swelling ratio compared to the E-treated samples. Moreover, the H-cross-linked systems have better mechanical properties─lower stiffness and greater tensile strength. All the tested systems are biocompatible, and interestingly, due to the presence of P3KBT, they show photoresponsivity to solar radiation generated by the simulator. The results indicate that both methods of PVA cross-linking are highly effective and can be applied to a specific system depending on the target, e.g., biomedical or electronic applications. Keywords: poly(vinyl alcohol),poly[3-(potassium-5-butanoate)thiophene-2.5-diyl],electrospun nanofibers,cross-linking,fibrous hydrogel,semi-IPN Affiliations:
Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian S.S. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Gradys A.D. | - | IPPT PAN | Jarząbek D.M. | - | IPPT PAN | Zanoni M. | - | other affiliation | Gualandi C. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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25. |
Haghighat Bayan M.A., Dias Yasmin J.♦, Rinoldi C., Nakielski P., Rybak D., Truong Yen B.♦, Yarin A.♦, Pierini F., Near-infrared light activated core-shell electrospun nanofibers decorated with photoactive plasmonic nanoparticles for on-demand smart drug delivery applications,
Journal of Polymer Science, ISSN: 2642-4169, DOI: 10.1002/pol.20220747, Vol.61, No.7, pp.521-533, 2023Abstract: Over the last few years, traditional drug delivery systems (DDSs) have been transformed into smart DDSs. Recent advancements in biomedical nanotech-nology resulted in introducing stimuli-responsiveness to drug vehicles. Nano-
platforms can enhance drug release efficacy while reducing the side effects of drugs by taking advantage of the responses to specific internal or external stim-uli. In this study, we developed an electrospun nanofibrous photo-responsive DDSs. The photo-responsivity of the platform enables on-demand elevated drug release. Furthermore, it can provide a sustained release profile and pre-vent burst release and high concentrations of drugs. A coaxial electrospinning setup paired with an electrospraying technique is used to fabricate core-shell PVA-PLGA nanofibers decorated with plasmonic nanoparticles. The fabricated
nanofibers have a hydrophilic PVA and Rhodamine-B (RhB) core, while the shell is hydrophobic PLGA decorated with gold nanorods (Au NRs). The presence of plasmonic nanoparticles enables the platform to twice the amount of drug release besides exhibiting a long-term release. Investigations into the photo-responsive release mechanism demonstrate the system's potential as a “smart” drug delivery platform. Keywords: electrospun core-shell nanofibers,NIR-light activation,on-demand drug release,plasmonic nanoparticles,stimuli-responsive nanomaterials Affiliations:
Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Dias Yasmin J. | - | other affiliation | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Truong Yen B. | - | other affiliation | Yarin A. | - | Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (IL) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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26. |
Zakrzewska A., Haghighat Bayan M.A., Nakielski P., Petronella F.♦, De Sio L.♦, Pierini F., Nanotechnology Transition Roadmap toward Multifunctional Stimuli-Responsive Face Masks,
ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, ISSN: 1944-8244, DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c10335, Vol.14, No.41, pp.46123-46144, 2022Abstract: In recent times, the use of personal protective equipment, such as face masks or respirators, is becoming more and more critically important because of common pollution; furthermore, face masks have become a necessary element in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. For this reason, the main mission of scientists has become the development of face masks with exceptional properties that will enhance their performance. The versatility of electrospun polymer nanofibers has determined their suitability as a material for constructing “smart” filter media. This paper provides an overview of the research carried out on nanofibrous filters obtained by electrospinning. The progressive development of the next generation of face masks whose unique properties can be activated in response to a specific external stimulus is highlighted. Thanks to additional components incorporated into the fiber structure, filters can, for example, acquire antibacterial or antiviral properties, self-sterilize the structure, and store the energy generated by users. Despite the discovery of several fascinating possibilities, some of them remain unexplored. Stimuli-responsive filters have the potential to become products of large-scale availability and great importance to society as a whole. Keywords: nanostructured face masks, stimuli-responsive nanomaterials, electrospun nanofibers, active filtration, smart filters, COVID-19, antipathogen Affiliations:
Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Petronella F. | - | other affiliation | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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27. |
Nakielski P., Rinoldi C., Pruchniewski M.♦, Pawłowska S., Gazińska M.♦, Strojny B.♦, Rybak D., Jezierska-Woźniak K.♦, Urbanek O., Denis P., Sinderewicz E.♦, Czelejewska W.♦, Staszkiewicz-Chodor J.♦, Grodzik M.♦, Ziai Y., Barczewska M.♦, Maksymowicz W.♦, Pierini F., Laser-assisted fabrication of injectable nanofibrous cell carriers,
Small, ISSN: 1613-6810, DOI: 10.1002/smll.202104971, Vol.18, No.2, pp.2104971-1-18, 2022Abstract: The use of injectable biomaterials for cell delivery is a rapidly expanding field which may revolutionize the medical treatments by making them less invasive. However, creating desirable cell carriers poses significant challenges to the clinical implementation of cell-based therapeutics. At the same time, no method has been developed to produce injectable microscaffolds (MSs) from electrospun materials. Here the fabrication of injectable electrospun nanofibers is reported on, which retain their fibrous structure to mimic the extracellular matrix. The laser-assisted micro-scaffold fabrication has produced tens of thousands of MSs in a short time. An efficient attachment of cells to the surface and their proliferation is observed, creating cell-populated MSs. The cytocompatibility assays proved their biocompatibility, safety, and potential as cell carriers. Ex vivo results with the use of bone and cartilage tissues proved that NaOH hydrolyzed and chitosan functionalized MSs are compatible with living tissues and readily populated with cells. Injectability studies of MSs showed a high injectability rate, while at the same time, the force needed to eject the load is no higher than 25 N. In the future, the produced MSs may be studied more in-depth as cell carriers in minimally invasive cell therapies and 3D bioprinting applications. Affiliations:
Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Pruchniewski M. | - | other affiliation | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Gazińska M. | - | other affiliation | Strojny B. | - | other affiliation | Rybak D. | - | IPPT PAN | Jezierska-Woźniak K. | - | other affiliation | Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Denis P. | - | IPPT PAN | Sinderewicz E. | - | other affiliation | Czelejewska W. | - | other affiliation | Staszkiewicz-Chodor J. | - | other affiliation | Grodzik M. | - | other affiliation | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Barczewska M. | - | University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn (PL) | Maksymowicz W. | - | University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn (PL) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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28. |
La Monaca A.♦, Girard G.♦, Savoie S.♦, Veillette R.♦, Krachkovskiy S.♦, Pierini F., Vijh A.♦, Rosei F.♦, Paolella A.♦, Influence of TiIV substitution on the properties of a Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 nanofiber-based solid electrolyte,
NANOSCALE, ISSN: 2040-3364, DOI: 10.1039/D2NR00017B, Vol.14, No.13, pp.5094-5101, 2022Abstract: We report the influence of the partial substitution of Ge with Ti on the properties of NASICON Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 (LAGP) nanofibers prepared by electrospinning. Replacing a small amount of Ge (up to 20%) with Ti is advantageous for enhancing both the purity and morphology of LAGP fibers, as observed by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. When Ti-substituted LAGP (LAGTP) fibers are used as filler to develop composite polymer electrolytes, the ionic conductivity at 20 °C improves by a factor of 1.5 compared to the plain polymer electrolyte. Additionally, above 40 °C the LAGTP fiber-based composite electrolytes were more conductive than the equivalent LAGP fiber-based one. We believe that these findings can make a substantial contribution to optimizing current methods and developing novel synthesis approaches for NASICON based electrolytes. Affiliations:
La Monaca A. | - | other affiliation | Girard G. | - | Lorraine University (FR) | Savoie S. | - | other affiliation | Veillette R. | - | Institut de Recherche d'Hydro-Québec (CA) | Krachkovskiy S. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Vijh A. | - | other affiliation | Rosei F. | - | other affiliation | Paolella A. | - | other affiliation |
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29. |
Ziai Y., Petronella F.♦, Rinoldi C., Nakielski P., Zakrzewska A., Kowalewski T.A., Augustyniak W.♦, Li X.♦, Calogero A.♦, Sabała I.♦, Ding B.♦, De Sio L.♦, Pierini F., Chameleon-inspired multifunctional plasmonic nanoplatforms for biosensing applications,
NPG Asia Materials, ISSN: 1884-4049, DOI: 10.1038/s41427-022-00365-9, Vol.14, pp.18-1-17, 2022Abstract: One of the most fascinating areas in the field of smart biopolymers is biomolecule sensing. Accordingly, multifunctional biomimetic, biocompatible, and stimuli-responsive materials based on hydrogels have attracted much interest. Within this framework, the design of nanostructured materials that do not require any external energy source is beneficial for developing a platform for sensing glucose in body fluids. In this article, we report the realization and application of an innovative platform consisting of two outer layers of a nanocomposite plasmonic hydrogel plus one inner layer of electrospun mat fabricated by electrospinning, where the outer layers exploit photoinitiated free radical polymerization, obtaining a compact and stable device. Inspired by the exceptional features of chameleon skin, plasmonic silver nanocubes are embedded into a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-based hydrogel network to obtain enhanced thermoresponsive and antibacterial properties. The introduction of an electrospun mat creates a compatible environment for the homogeneous hydrogel coating while imparting excellent mechanical and structural properties to the final system. Chemical, morphological, and optical characterizations were performed to investigate the structure of the layers and the multifunctional platform. The synergetic effect of the nanostructured system’s photothermal responsivity and antibacterial properties was evaluated. The sensing features associated with the optical properties of silver nanocubes revealed that the proposed multifunctional system is a promising candidate for glucose-sensing applications. Affiliations:
Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Petronella F. | - | other affiliation | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Zakrzewska A. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Augustyniak W. | - | Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences (PL) | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Calogero A. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Sabała I. | - | Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences (PL) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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30. |
Marinelli M.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Pierini F., Ziai Y., Zanelli A.♦, Quadretti D.♦, Di Maria F.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Ionic Push–Pull Polythiophenes: A Further Step towards Eco-Friendly BHJ Organic Solar Cells,
Polymers, ISSN: 2073-4360, DOI: 10.3390/polym14193965, Vol.14, No.19, pp.3965-1-17, 2022Abstract: Four new conjugated polymers alternating benzothiadiazole units and thiophene moieties functionalized with ionic phosphonium or sulfonic acid salts in the side chains were synthesized by a postfunctionalization approach of polymeric precursors. The introduction of ionic groups makes the conjugated polymers soluble in water and/or polar solvents, allowing for the fabrication of bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells using environmentally friendly conditions. All polymers were fully characterized by spectroscopic, thermal, electrochemical, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron, and atomic force techniques. BHJ solar cells were obtained from halogen-free solvents (i.e., ethanol and/or anisole) by blending the synthesized ionic push–pull polymers with a serinol-fullerene derivative or an ionic homopolymer acting as electron-acceptor (EA) or electron-donor (ED) counterparts, respectively. The device with the highest optical density and the smoothest surface of the active layer was the best-performing, showing a 4.76% photoconversion efficiency. Keywords: donor–acceptor systems, bifunctional materials, phosphonium salts, eco-friendly BHJ solar cells, anisole Affiliations:
Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Zanelli A. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Quadretti D. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Di Maria F. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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31. |
Liguori A.♦, Pandini S.♦, Rinoldi C., Zaccheroni N.♦, Pierini F., Focarete M.L.♦, Gualandi C.♦, Thermoactive smart electrospun nanofibers,
Macromolecular Rapid Communications, ISSN: 1022-1336, DOI: 10.1002/marc.202100694, Vol.43, No.5, pp.2100694-1-35, 2022Abstract: The recent burst of research on smart materials is a clear evidence of the growing interest of the scientific community, industry, and society in the field. The exploitation of the great potential of stimuli-responsive materials for sensing, actuation, logic, and control applications is favored and supported by new manufacturing technologies, such as electrospinning, that allows to endow smart materials with micro- and nanostructuration, thus opening up additional and unprecedented prospects. In this wide and lively scenario, this article systematically reviews the current advances in the development of thermoactive electrospun fibers and textiles, sorting them, according to their response to the thermal stimulus. Hence, several platforms including thermoresponsive systems, shape memory polymers, thermo-optically responsive systems, phase change materials, thermoelectric materials, and pyroelectric materials, are described and critically discussed. The difference in active species and outputs of the aforementioned categories is highlighted, evidencing the transversal nature of temperature stimulus. Moreover, the potential of novel thermoactive materials are pointed out, revealing how their development could take to utmost interesting achievements. Keywords: electrospinning, phase change materials, pyroelectric materials, shape memory polymers, thermoelectric materials, thermo-optically responsive materials, thermoresponsive materials Affiliations:
Liguori A. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pandini S. | - | University of Brescia (IT) | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Zaccheroni N. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Focarete M.L. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Gualandi C. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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32. |
Ziai Y., Rinoldi C., Nakielski P., De Sio L.♦, Pierini F., Smart plasmonic hydrogels based on gold and silver nanoparticles for biosensing application,
Current Opinion in Biomedical Engineering, ISSN: 2468-4511, DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2022.100413, Vol.24, pp.100413-1-8, 2022Abstract: The importance of having a fast, accurate, and reusable track for detection has led to an increase investigation in the field of biosensing. Optical biosensing using plasmonic nanoparticles, such as gold and silver, introduces localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensors. LSPR biosensors are progressive in their sensing precision and detection limit. Also, the possibility to tune the sensing range by varying the size and shape of the particles has made them extremely useful. Hydrogels being hydrophilic 3D networks can be beneficial when used as matrices, because of a more efficient biorecognition. Stimuli-responsive hydrogels can be great candidates, as their response to a stimulus can increase recognition and detection. This article highlights recent advances in combining hydrogels as a matrix and plasmonic nanoparticles as sensing elements. The end capability and diversity of these novel biosensors in different applications in the near future are discussed. Keywords: Smart materials, Plasmonic hydrogel, Biosensing Affiliations:
Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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33. |
Liu Y.♦, Wang Q.♦, Liu X.♦, Nakielski P., Pierini F., Li X.♦, Yu J.♦, Ding B.♦, Highly adhesive, stretchable and breathable gelatin methacryloyl-based nanofibrous hydrogels for wound dressings,
ACS Applied Bio Materials, ISSN: 2576-6422, DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c01087, Vol.5, No.3, pp.1047-1056, 2022Abstract: Adhesive and stretchable nanofibrous hydrogels have attracted extensive attraction in wound dressings, especially for joint wound treatment. However, adhesive hydrogels tend to display poor stretchable behavior. It is still a significant challenge to integrate excellent adhesiveness and stretchability in a nanofibrous hydrogel. Herein, a highly adhesive, stretchable, and breathable nanofibrous hydrogel was developed via an in situ hybrid cross-linking strategy of electrospun nanofibers comprising dopamine (DA) and gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA). Benefiting from the balance of cohesion and adhesion based on photocross-linking of methacryloyl (MA) groups in GelMA and the chemical/physical reaction between GelMA and DA, the nanofibrous hydrogels exhibited tunable adhesive and mechanical properties through varying MA substitution degrees of GelMA. The optimized GelMA60-DA exhibited 2.0 times larger tensile strength (2.4 MPa) with an elongation of about 200%, 2.3 times greater adhesive strength (9.1 kPa) on porcine skin, and 3.1 times higher water vapor transmission rate (10.9 kg m–2 d–1) compared with gelatin nanofibrous hydrogels. In parallel, the GelMA60-DA nanofibrous hydrogels could facilitate cell growth and accelerate wound healing. This work presented a type of breathable nanofibrous hydrogels with excellent adhesive and stretchable capacities, showing great promise as wound dressings. Keywords: nanofibrous hydrogels, hybrid cross-linking, adhesivity, stretchability, breathable capability Affiliations:
Liu Y. | - | Forschugszentrum Jülich, Institute of Complex Systems (DE) | Wang Q. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Liu X. | - | Imperial College London (GB) | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Yu J. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) |
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34. |
Haghighat Bayan M.A., Afshar Taromi F.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Pierini F., Enhanced efficiency in hollow core electrospun nanofiber-based organic solar cells,
Scientific Reports, ISSN: 2045-2322, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00580-4, Vol.11, pp.21144-1-11, 2021Abstract: Over the last decade, nanotechnology and nanomaterials have attracted enormous interest due to the rising number of their applications in solar cells. A fascinating strategy to increase the efficiency of organic solar cells is the use of tailor-designed buffer layers to improve the charge transport process. High-efficiency bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells have been obtained by introducing hollow core polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers as a buffer layer. An improved power conversion efficiency in polymer solar cells (PSCs) was demonstrated through the incorporation of electrospun hollow core PANI nanofibers positioned between the active layer and the electrode. PANI hollow nanofibers improved buffer layer structural properties, enhanced optical absorption, and induced a more balanced charge transfer process. Solar cell photovoltaic parameters also showed higher open-circuit voltage (+ 40.3%) and higher power conversion efficiency (+ 48.5%) than conventional architecture BHJ solar cells. Furthermore, the photovoltaic cell developed achieved the highest reported efficiency value ever reached for an electrospun fiber-based solar cell (PCE = 6.85%). Our results indicated that PANI hollow core nanostructures may be considered an effective material for high-performance PSCs and potentially applicable to other fields, such as fuel cells and sensors. Affiliations:
Haghighat Bayan M.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Afshar Taromi F. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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35. |
Cidonio G.♦, Costantini M.♦, Pierini F., Scognamiglio C.♦, Agarwal T.♦, Barbetta A.♦, 3D printing of biphasic inks: beyond single-scale architectural control,
Journal of Materials Chemistry C, ISSN: 2050-7526, DOI: 10.1039/d1tc02117f, Vol.9, No.37, pp.12489-12508, 2021Abstract: To date, Additive Manufacturing (AM) has come to the fore as a major disruptive technology embodying two main research lines – developing increasingly sophisticated printing technologies and new processable materials. The latter has fostered a tremendous leap in AM technological advancement, allowing 3D printing to play a central role in dictating the tailorable settings for material design. In particular, the manufacturing of three-dimensional (3D) objects with functional hierarchical porous structure is of the utmost importance for numerous research areas, including tissue engineering, catalysis, aerospace, environmental science, electrochemistry, energy and sound absorption and light engineering materials. Biphasic inks such as emulsions, foams, and solid dispersions represent viable templating systems to realise multiscale porosity. The combination of AM techniques and biphasic inks provide pivotal control over multiple levels of material structure and function, enabling the use of advanced materials with unprecedented 3D architectures as well as physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. The related potential benefits are significant, with functional perspectives for a wide variety of research fields. In this concise review, we provide an updated overview of the employment of biphase inks and show how they are adapted to different AM technologies or vice versa. Affiliations:
Cidonio G. | - | other affiliation | Costantini M. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Scognamiglio C. | - | other affiliation | Agarwal T. | - | other affiliation | Barbetta A. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) |
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36. |
Marinelli M.♦, Candini A.♦, Monti F.♦, Boschi A.♦, Zangoli M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Pierini F., Lanzi M.♦, Zanelli A.♦, Gazzano M.♦, Di Maria F.♦, Push–pull thiophene-based small molecules with donor and acceptor units of varying strength for photovoltaic application: beyond P3HT and PCBM,
Journal of Materials Chemistry C, ISSN: 2050-7526, DOI: 10.1039/d1tc02641k, Vol.9, No.34, pp.11216-11228, 2021Abstract: Here is reported an expedient synthesis implementing enabling technologies of a family of thiophene-based heptamers alternating electron donor (D) and acceptor (A) units in a D–A′–D–A–D–A′–D sequence. The nature of the peripheral A groups (benzothiadiazole vs. thienopyrrole-dione vs. thiophene-S,S-dioxide) and the strength of the donor units (alkyl vs. thioalkyl substituted thiophene ring) have been varied to finely tune the chemical-physical properties of the D–A oligomers, to affect the packing arrangement in the solid-state as well as to enhance the photovoltaic performances. The optoelectronic properties of all compounds have been studied by means of optical spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and density functional theory calculations. Electrochemical measurements and Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) predicted a bifunctional behaviour for these oligomers, suggesting the possibility of using them as donor materials when blended with PCBM, and as acceptor materials when coupled with P3HT. Investigation of their photovoltaic properties confirmed this unusual characteristic, and it is shown that the performance can be tuned by the different substitution pattern. Furthermore, thanks to their ambivalent character, binary non-fullerene small-molecule organic solar cells with negligible values of HOMO and LUMO offsets were also fabricated, resulting in PCEs ranging between 2.54–3.96%. Affiliations:
Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Candini A. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Monti F. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Boschi A. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Zangoli M. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Zanelli A. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Gazzano M. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) | Di Maria F. | - | CNR-ISOF (IT) |
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37. |
Rinoldi C., Lanzi M.♦, Fiorelli R.♦, Nakielski P., Zembrzycki K., Kowalewski T., Urbanek O., Jezierska-Woźniak K.♦, Maksymowicz W.♦, Camposeo A.♦, Bilewicz R.♦, Pisignano D.♦, Sanai N.♦, Pierini F., Pierini F., Three-dimensional printable conductive semi-interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel for neural tissue applications,
BIOMACROMOLECULES, ISSN: 1525-7797, DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.1c00524, Vol.22, No.7, pp.3084-3098, 2021Abstract: Intrinsically conducting polymers (ICPs) are widely used to fabricate biomaterials; their application in neural tissue engineering, however, is severely limited because of their hydrophobicity and insufficient mechanical properties. For these reasons, soft conductive polymer hydrogels (CPHs) are recently developed, resulting in a water-based system with tissue-like mechanical, biological, and electrical properties. The strategy of incorporating ICPs as a conductive component into CPHs is recently explored by synthesizing the hydrogel around ICP chains, thus forming a semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN). In this work, a novel conductive semi-IPN hydrogel is designed and synthesized. The hybrid hydrogel is based on a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-N-isopropylmethacrylamide) hydrogel where polythiophene is introduced as an ICP to provide the system with good electrical properties. The fabrication of the hybrid hydrogel in an aqueous medium is made possible by modifying and synthesizing the monomers of polythiophene to ensure water solubility. The morphological, chemical, thermal, electrical, electrochemical, and mechanical properties of semi-IPNs were fully investigated. Additionally, the biological response of neural progenitor cells and mesenchymal stem cells in contact with the conductive semi-IPN was evaluated in terms of neural differentiation and proliferation. Lastly, the potential of the hydrogel solution as a 3D printing ink was evaluated through the 3D laser printing method. The presented results revealed that the proposed 3D printable conductive semi-IPN system is a good candidate as a scaffold for neural tissue applications. Affiliations:
Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Fiorelli R. | - | other affiliation | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T. | - | IPPT PAN | Grippo V. | - | other affiliation | Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Jezierska-Woźniak K. | - | other affiliation | Maksymowicz W. | - | University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn (PL) | Camposeo A. | - | other affiliation | Bilewicz R. | - | other affiliation | Pisignano D. | - | other affiliation | Sanai N. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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38. |
De Sio L.♦, Ding B.♦, Focsan M.♦, Kogermann K.♦, Pascoal-Faria P.♦, Petronella F.♦, Mitchell G.♦, Zussman E.♦, Pierini F., Personalized reusable face masks with smart nano‐assisted destruction of pathogens for COVID‐19: a visionary road,
Chemistry - A European Journal, ISSN: 0947-6539, DOI: 10.1002/chem.202004875, Vol.27, pp.1-20, 2021Abstract: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) emergency has demonstrated that the utilization of face masks plays a critical role in limiting the outbreaks. Healthcare professionals utilize masks all day long without replacing them very frequently, thus representing a source of cross‐infection for patients and themselves. Nanotechnology is a powerful tool with the capability to produce nanomaterials with unique physicochemical and anti‐pathogen properties. Here, we outline how to realize non‐disposable and highly comfortable respirators with light‐triggered self‐disinfection ability by bridging bioactive nanofiber properties and stimuli‐responsive nanomaterials. The visionary road highlighted in this Concept is based on the possibility to develop a new generation of masks based on multifunctional membranes where the presence of nanoclusters and plasmonic nanoparticles arranged in a hierarchical structure enables the realization of a chemically‐driven and on‐demand anti‐pathogen activities. Multilayer electrospun membranes have the ability to dissipate humidity present within the mask, enhancing the wearability and usability. The photo‐thermal disinfected membrane is the core of these 3D printed and reusable masks with moisture pump capability. Personalized face masks with smart nano‐assisted destruction of pathogens will bring enormous advantages to the entire global community, especially for front‐line personnel, and will open up great opportunities for innovative medical applications. Keywords: face masks, light-responsive nanomaterials, anti-pathogen, electrospinning, digitally personalized Affiliations:
De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Focsan M. | - | other affiliation | Kogermann K. | - | other affiliation | Pascoal-Faria P. | - | other affiliation | Petronella F. | - | other affiliation | Mitchell G. | - | other affiliation | Zussman E. | - | Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (IL) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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39. |
La Monaca A.♦, Girard G.♦, Savoie S.♦, Bertoni G.♦, Krachkovskiy S.♦, Vijh A.♦, Pierini F., Rosei F.♦, Paolella A.♦, Synthesis of electrospun NASICON Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 solid electrolyte nanofibers by control of germanium hydrolysis,
Journal of The Electrochemical Society, ISSN: 0013-4651, DOI: 10.1149/1945-7111/ac334a, Vol.168, No.11, pp.110512-1-9, 2021Abstract: We report the synthesis of ceramic Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 (LAGP) nanofibers by combining sol–gel and electrospinning techniques. A homogeneous and stable precursor solution based on chlorides was achieved by controlling Ge hydrolysis. Subsequent electrospinning and heat treatment resulted in highly porous nanostructured NASICON pellets. After a full chemical-physical characterization, various amounts of LAGP nanofibers were used as a filler to develop polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based composite electrolytes. The addition of 10% LAGP nanofibers has allowed doubling the ionic conductivity of the plain polymer electrolyte, by providing longer ion-conductive paths and reducing PEO crystallinity. These findings are promising towards developing solution-based synthesis approaches featuring Ge precursors. In addition, the achieved LAGP nanofibers proved to be a promising nanofiller candidate to develop composite electrolytes for next-generation solid-state batteries. Affiliations:
La Monaca A. | - | other affiliation | Girard G. | - | Lorraine University (FR) | Savoie S. | - | other affiliation | Bertoni G. | - | other affiliation | Krachkovskiy S. | - | other affiliation | Vijh A. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Rosei F. | - | other affiliation | Paolella A. | - | other affiliation |
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40. |
Rinoldi C., Zargarian S.S., Nakielski P., Li X.♦, Liguori A.♦, Petronella F.♦, Presutti D.♦, Wang Q.♦, Costantini M.♦, De Sio L.♦, Gualandi C.♦, Ding B.♦, Pierini F., Nanotechnology-assisted RNA delivery: from nucleic acid therapeutics to COVID-19 vaccines,
Small Methods, ISSN: 2366-9608, DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202100402, Vol.5, No.9, pp.2100402-1-49, 2021Abstract: In recent years, the main quest of science has been the pioneering of the groundbreaking biomedical strategies needed for achieving a personalized medicine. Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) are outstanding bioactive macromolecules identified as pivotal actors in regulating a wide range of biochemical pathways. The ability to intimately control the cell fate and tissue activities makes RNA-based drugs the most fascinating family of bioactive agents. However, achieving a widespread application of RNA therapeutics in humans is still a challenging feat, due to both the instability of naked RNA and the presence of biological barriers aimed at hindering the entrance of RNA into cells. Recently, material scientists’ enormous efforts have led to the development of various classes of nanostructured carriers customized to overcome these limitations. This work systematically reviews the current advances in developing the next generation of drugs based on nanotechnology-assisted RNA delivery. The features of the most used RNA molecules are presented, together with the development strategies and properties of nanostructured vehicles. Also provided is an in-depth overview of various therapeutic applications of the presented systems, including coronavirus disease vaccines and the newest trends in the field. Lastly, emerging challenges and future perspectives for nanotechnology-mediated RNA therapies are discussed. Affiliations:
Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Zargarian S.S. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Liguori A. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Petronella F. | - | other affiliation | Presutti D. | - | Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences (PL) | Wang Q. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Costantini M. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Gualandi C. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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41. |
Lanzi M.♦, Quadretti D.♦, Marinelli M., Ziai Y., Salatelli E.♦, Pierini F., Influence of the active layer structure on the photovoltaic performance of water-soluble polythiophene-based solar cells,
Polymers, ISSN: 2073-4360, DOI: 10.3390/polym13101640, Vol.13, No.10, pp.1640-1-20, 2021Abstract: A new side-chain C60-fullerene functionalized thiophene copolymer bearing tributylphosphine-substituted hexylic lateral groups was successfully synthesized by means of a fast and effective post-polymerization reaction on a regioregular ω-alkylbrominated polymeric precursor. The growth of the polymeric intermediate was followed by NMR spectrometry in order to determine the most convenient reaction time. The obtained copolymer was soluble in water and polar solvents and was used as a photoactive layer in single-material organic photovoltaic (OPV) solar cells. The copolymer photovoltaic efficiency was compared with that of an OPV cell containing a water-soluble polythiophenic homopolymer, functionalized with the same tributylphosphine-substituted hexylic side chains, in a blend with a water-soluble C60-fullerene derivative. The use of a water-soluble double-cable copolymer made it possible to enhance the control on the nanomorphology of the active blend, thus reducing phase-segregation phenomena, as well as the macroscale separation between the electron acceptor and donor components. Indeed, the power conversion efficiency of OPV cells based on a single material was higher than that obtained with the classical architecture, involving the presence of two distinct ED and EA materials (PCE: 3.11% vs. 2.29%, respectively). Moreover, the synthetic procedure adopted to obtain single material-based cells is more straightforward and easier than that used for the preparation of the homopolymer-based BHJ solar cell, thus making it possible to completely avoid the long synthetic pathway which is required to prepare water-soluble fullerene derivatives. Keywords: water-soluble polymers, double-cable copolymers, polythiophenes, GRIM polymerization, tributylphosphine, water-soluble fullerenes, OPVs Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Quadretti D. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Marinelli M. | - | IPPT PAN | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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42. |
Urbanek O., Wysocka A.♦, Nakielski P., Pierini F., Jagielska E.♦, Sabała I.♦, Staphylococcus aureus specific electrospun wound dressings: influence of immobilization technique on antibacterial efficiency of novel enzybiotic,
Pharmaceutics, ISSN: 1999-4923, DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13050711, Vol.13, No.5, pp.711-1-17, 2021Abstract: The spread of antimicrobial resistance requires the development of novel strategies to combat superbugs. Bacteriolytic enzymes (enzybiotics) that selectively eliminate pathogenic bacteria, including resistant strains and biofilms, are attractive alternatives to antibiotics, also as a component of a new generation of antimicrobial wound dressings. AuresinePlus is a novel, engineered enzybiotic effective against Staphylococcus aureus—one of the most common pathogenic bacteria, found in infected wounds with a very high prevalence of antibiotic resistance. We took advantage of its potent lytic activity, selectivity, and safety to prepare a set of biodegradable PLGA/chitosan fibers generated by electrospinning. Our aim was to produce antimicrobial nonwovens to deliver enzybiotics directly to the infected wound and better control its release and activity. Three different methods of enzyme immobilization were tested: physical adsorption on the previously hydrolyzed surface, and covalent bonding formation using N-hydroxysuccinimide/N-(3-Dimethylaminopropyl)-N′-ethylcarbodiimide (NHS/EDC) or glutaraldehyde (GA). The supramolecular structure and functional properties analysis revealed that the selected methods resulted in significant development of nanofibers surface topography resulting in an efficient enzybiotic attachment. Both physically adsorbed and covalently bound enzymes (by NHS/EDC method) exhibited prominent antibacterial activity. Here, we present the extensive comparison between methods for the effective attachment of the enzybiotic to the electrospun nonwovens to generate biomaterials effective against antibiotic-resistant strains. Our intention was to present a comprehensive proof-of-concept study for future antimicrobial wound dressing development. Keywords: antibacterial wound dressings, enzybiotic, fibers functionalization, electrospun wound dressings, Staphylococcus aureus Affiliations:
Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Wysocka A. | - | other affiliation | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Jagielska E. | - | other affiliation | Sabała I. | - | Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences (PL) |
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43. |
Lanzi M.♦, Pierini F., Efficient and thermally stable BHJ solar cells based on a soluble hydroxy-functionalized regioregular polydodecylthiophene,
REACTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS, ISSN: 1381-5148, DOI: 10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2020.104803, Vol.158, pp.104803-1-12, 2021Abstract: A new regioregular polythiophene derivative, called poly[3-(12-hydroxydodecyl)thiophene] (PT12OH), was synthesized by post-functionalizing its ω-brominated precursor poly[3-(12-bromododecyl)thiophene] (PT12Br) prepared using the Grignard metathesis route. Thanks to the optimal balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups within its structure, PT12OH was highly soluble and easily filmable from common organic solvents allowing for its complete characterization. It also showed enhanced thermal properties, crystallinity, and self-assembling capabilities by the formation of strong inter- and intrachain hydrogen bonds. Bulk heterojunction photovoltaic cells with PT12OH and PC61BM showed a PCE of 4.83% and a remarkable over-time stability, offering good photoconversion efficiency even after 120 h of accelerated aging. Indeed, the PCE decrease was 34% for the hydroxylated polymer and 65% for its brominated precursor. It should also be pointed out that the enhanced thermal stability of PT12OH was achieved without resorting to any complex post-annealing photochemical, thermal, or chemical treatment and was thus directly ascribable to the polymer chemical structure. The simple and effective synthetic procedure, photovoltaic efficiency, and enhanced stability revealed the potential of PT12OH for large-scale organic solar cell applications. Keywords: bulk heterojunction solar cell, regioregular polythiophene derivatives, post-polymerization functionalization, over-time stability Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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44. |
Guglielmelli A.♦, Pierini F., Tabiryan N.♦, Umeton C.♦, Bunning T.J.♦, De Sio L.♦, Thermoplasmonics with gold nanoparticles: a new weapon in modern optics and biomedicine,
Advanced Photonics Research, ISSN: 2699-9293, DOI: 10.1002/adpr.202000198, Vol.2, No.8, pp.2000198-1-17, 2021Abstract: Thermoplasmonics deals with the generation and manipulation of nanoscale heating associated with noble metallic nanoparticles. To this end, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are unique nanomaterials with the intrinsic capability to generate a nanoscale confined light-triggered thermal effect. This phenomenon is produced under the excitation of a suitable light of a wavelength that matches the localized surface plasmonic resonance frequency of AuNPs. Liquid crystals (LCs) and hydrogels are temperature-sensitive materials that can detect the host AuNPs and their photo-induced temperature variations. In this perspective, new insight into thermoplasmonics, by describing a series of methodologies for monitoring, detecting, and exploiting the photothermal properties of AuNPs, is offered. From conventional infrared thermography to highly sophisticated temperature-sensitive materials such as LCs and hydrogels, a new scenario in thermoplasmonic-based, next generation, photonic components is presented and discussed. Moreover, a new road in thermoplasmonic-driven biomedical applications, by describing compelling and innovative health technologies such as on-demand drug-release and smart face masks with smart nano-assisted destruction of pathogens, is proposed. The latter represents a new weapon in the fight against COVID-19.Thermoplasmonics deals with the generation and manipulation of nanoscale heating associated with noble metallic nanoparticles. To this end, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are unique nanomaterials with the intrinsic capability to generate a nanoscale confined light-triggered thermal effect. This phenomenon is produced under the excitation of a suitable light of a wavelength that matches the localized surface plasmonic resonance frequency of AuNPs. Liquid crystals (LCs) and hydrogels are temperature-sensitive materials that can detect the host AuNPs and their photo-induced temperature variations. In this perspective, new insight into thermoplasmonics, by describing a series of methodologies for monitoring, detecting, and exploiting the photothermal properties of AuNPs, is offered. From conventional infrared thermography to highly sophisticated temperature-sensitive materials such as LCs and hydrogels, a new scenario in thermoplasmonic-based, next generation, photonic components is presented and discussed. Moreover, a new road in thermoplasmonic-driven biomedical applications, by describing compelling and innovative health technologies such as on-demand drug-release and smart face masks with smart nano-assisted destruction of pathogens, is proposed. The latter represents a new weapon in the fight against COVID-19. Affiliations:
Guglielmelli A. | - | University of Calabria (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Tabiryan N. | - | other affiliation | Umeton C. | - | University of Calabria (IT) | Bunning T.J. | - | other affiliation | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) |
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45. |
Nakielski P., Pawłowska S., Rinoldi C., Ziai Y., De Sio L.♦, Urbanek O., Zembrzycki K., Pruchniewski M.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Calogero A.♦, Kowalewski T.A., Yarin A.L.♦, Pierini F., Multifunctional platform based on electrospun nanofibers and plasmonic hydrogel: a smart nanostructured pillow for near-Infrared light-driven biomedical applications,
ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, ISSN: 1944-8244, DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c13266, Vol.12, No.49, pp.54328-54342, 2020Abstract: Multifunctional nanomaterials with the ability torespond to near-infrared (NIR) light stimulation are vital for thedevelopment of highly efficient biomedical nanoplatforms with apolytherapeutic approach. Inspired by the mesoglea structure ofjellyfish bells, a biomimetic multifunctional nanostructured pillowwith fast photothermal responsiveness for NIR light-controlled on-demand drug delivery is developed. We fabricate a nanoplatformwith several hierarchical levels designed to generate a series ofcontrolled, rapid, and reversible cascade-like structural changesupon NIR light irradiation. The mechanical contraction of thenanostructured platform, resulting from the increase of temper-ature to 42°C due to plasmonic hydrogel−light interaction, causesa rapid expulsion of water from the inner structure, passing through an electrospun membrane anchored onto the hydrogel core. Themutual effects of the rise in temperature and waterflow stimulate the release of molecules from the nanofibers. To expand thepotential applications of the biomimetic platform, the photothermal responsiveness to reach the typical temperature level forperforming photothermal therapy (PTT) is designed. The on-demand drug model penetration into pig tissue demonstrates theefficiency of the nanostructured platform in the rapid and controlled release of molecules, while the high biocompatibility confirmsthe pillow potential for biomedical applications based on the NIR light-driven multitherapy strategy. Keywords: bioinspired materials, NIR-light responsive nanomaterials, multifunctional platforms, electrospun nanofibers, plasmonic hydrogel, photothermal-based polytherapy, on-demand drug delivery Affiliations:
Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Pruchniewski M. | - | other affiliation | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Calogero A. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Yarin A.L. | - | Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (IL) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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46. |
Pierini F., Guglielmelli A.♦, Urbanek O., Nakielski P., Pezzi L.♦, Buda R.♦, Lanzi M.♦, Kowalewski T.A., De Sio L.♦, Thermoplasmonic‐activated hydrogel based dynamic light attenuator,
Advanced Optical Materials, ISSN: 2195-1071, DOI: 10.1002/adom.202000324, Vol.8, No.12, pp.2000324-1-7, 2020Abstract: This work describes the morphological, optical, and thermo‐optical properties of a temperature‐sensitive hydrogel poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐N‐isopropylmethacrylamide) [P(NIPAm‐co‐NIPMAm]) film containing a specific amount of gold nanorods (GNRs). The light‐induced thermoplasmonic heating of GNRs is used to control the optical scattering of an initially transparent hydrogel film. A hydrated P(NIPAm‐co‐NIPMAm) film is optically clear at room temperature. When heated to temperatures over 37 °C via light irradiation with a resonant source (λ = 810 nm) to the GNRs, a reversible phase transition from a swollen hydrated state to a shrunken dehydrated state occurs. This phenomenon causes a drastic and reversible change in the optical transparency from a clear to an opaque state. A significant red shift (≈30 nm) of the longitudinal band can also be seen due to an increased average refractive index surrounding the GNRs. This change is in agreement with an ad hoc theoretical model which uses a modified Gans theory for ellipsoidal nanoparticles. Morphological analysis of the composite film shows the presence of well‐isolated and randomly dispersed GNRs. Thermo‐optical experiments demonstrate an all‐optically controlled light attenuator (65% contrast ratio) which can be easily integrated in several modern optical applications such as smart windows and light‐responsive optical attenuators. Keywords: active plasmonics, gold nanorods, hydrogels, optical attenuators, optical transparency, plasmonic nanoparticles, polymers Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Guglielmelli A. | - | University of Calabria (IT) | Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pezzi L. | - | other affiliation | Buda R. | - | Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences (PL) | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) |
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47. |
Sankaran A.♦, Pawłowska S., Pierini F., Kowalewski T.A., Yarin A.L.♦, Dynamics of electrospun hydrogel filaments in oscillatory microchannel flows: a theoretical and experimental approach,
PHYSICS OF FLUIDS, ISSN: 1070-6631, DOI: 10.1063/5.0011005, Vol.32, No.7, pp.072008-1-13, 2020Abstract: The dynamics of highly flexible micro- and nano-filaments are important to a variety of biological, medical, and industrial problems. The filament configuration variation and cross-stream migration in a microchannel are affected by thermal fluctuations in addition to elastic and viscous forces. Here, hydrogel nano-filaments with small bending Young's moduli are utilized to elucidate the transitional behavior of elastic Brownian filaments in an oscillatory microchannel flow. A numerical model based on chain elastic dumbbells similar to the Rouse-Zimm model accounting for elastic, viscous, and random Brownian forces is proposed and implemented. In addition, a theoretical model to describe the average orientation–deformation tensor evolution for an ensemble of filaments in an oscillatory flow is proposed. The results are compared with the evolution observed in the experiments. Affiliations:
Sankaran A. | - | other affiliation | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Yarin A.L. | - | Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (IL) |
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48. |
Pawłowska S., Rinoldi C., Nakielski P., Ziai Y., Urbanek O., Li X.♦, Kowalewski T.A., Ding B.♦, Pierini F., Ultraviolet light‐assisted electrospinning of core–shell fully cross‐linked P(NIPAAm‐co‐NIPMAAm) hydrogel‐based nanofibers for thermally induced drug delivery self‐regulation,
Advanced Materials Interfaces, ISSN: 2196-7350, DOI: 10.1002/admi.202000247, Vol.7, No.12, pp.2000247-1-13, 2020Abstract: Body tissues and organs have complex functions which undergo intrinsic changes during medical treatments. For the development of ideal drug delivery systems, understanding the biological tissue activities is necessary to be able to design materials capable of changing their properties over time, on the basis of the patient's tissue needs. In this study, a nanofibrous thermal‐responsive drug delivery system is developed. The thermo‐responsivity of the system makes it possible to self‐regulate the release of bioactive molecules, while reducing the drug delivery at early stages, thus avoiding high concentrations of drugs which may be toxic for healthy cells. A co‐axial electrospinning technique is used to fabricate core–shell cross‐linked copolymer poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐N‐isopropylmethacrylamide) (P(NIPAAm‐co‐NIPMAAm)) hydrogel‐based nanofibers. The obtained nanofibers are made of a core of thermo‐responsive hydrogel containing a drug model, while the outer shell is made of poly‐l‐lactide‐co‐caprolactone (PLCL). The custom‐made electrospinning apparatus enables the in situ cross‐linking of P(NIPAAm‐co‐NIPMAAm) hydrogel into a nanoscale confined space, which improves the electrospun nanofiber drug dosing process, by reducing its provision and allowing a self‐regulated release control. The mechanism of the temperature‐induced release control is studied in depth, and it is shown that the system is a promising candidate as a "smart" drug delivery platform. Keywords: biomimetic nanomaterials, electrospun core–shell nanofibers, hierarchical nanostructures, smart drug delivery, thermo‐responsive hydrogels Affiliations:
Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Rinoldi C. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Ziai Y. | - | IPPT PAN | Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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49. |
Wang L.♦, Lv H.♦, Liu L.♦, Zhang Q.♦, Nakielski P., Si Y.♦, Cao J.♦, Li X.♦, Pierini F., Yu J.♦, Ding B.♦, Electrospun nanofiber-reinforced three-dimensional chitosan matrices: architectural, mechanical and biological properties,
JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE, ISSN: 0021-9797, DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2020.01.016, Vol.565, pp.416-425, 2020Abstract: The poor intrinsic mechanical properties of chitosan hydrogels have greatly hindered their practical applications. Inspired by nature, we proposed a strategy to enhance the mechanical properties of chitosan hydrogels by construction of a nanofibrous and cellular architecture in the hydrogel without toxic chemical crosslinking. To this end, electrospun nanofibers including cellulose acetate, polyacrylonitrile, and SiO2 nanofibers were introduced into chitosan hydrogels by homogenous dispersion and lyophilization. With the addition of 30% cellulose acetate nanofibers, the cellular structure could be maintained even in water without crosslinking, and integration of 60% of the nanofibers could guarantee the free-standing structure of the chitosan hydrogel with a low solid content of 1%. Moreover, the SiO2 nanofiber-reinforced chitosan (SiO2 NF/CS) three-dimensional (3D) matrices exhibit complete shape recovery from 80% compressive strain and excellent injectability. The cellular architecture and nanofibrous structure in the SiO2 NF/CS matrices are beneficial for human mesenchymal stem cell adhesion and stretching. Furthermore, the SiO2 NF/CS matrices can also act as powerful vehicles for drug delivery. As an example, bone morphogenetic protein 2 could be immobilized on SiO2 NF/CS matrices to induce osteogenic differentiation. Together, the electrospun nanofiber-reinforced 3D chitosan matrices exhibited improved mechanical properties and enhanced biofunctionality, showing great potential in tissue engineering. Keywords: chitosan hydrogel, electrospun nanofiber, mechanical property, nanofibrous matrix, tissue engineering Affiliations:
Wang L. | - | Imperial College London (GB) | Lv H. | - | Medical College of Soochow University (CN) | Liu L. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Zhang Q. | - | Medical College of Soochow University (CN) | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Si Y. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Cao J. | - | other affiliation | Li X. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Yu J. | - | Donghua University (CN) | Ding B. | - | Donghua University (CN) |
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50. |
Lanzi M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Marinelli M.♦, Pierini F., Effect of photocrosslinking of D‐A thiophene copolymers on the performance of single‐material solar cells,
Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics, ISSN: 1022-1352, DOI: 10.1002/macp.201900433, Vol.221, No.2, pp.1900433-1-12, 2020Abstract: Side‐chain C60‐fullerene functionalized alkylthiophene copolymers with different regioregularity and fullerene content are successfully synthesized using a simple and straightforward post‐polymerization functionalization procedure based on a Grignard coupling reaction. The products are employed as single materials in photoactive layers of organic photovoltaic solar cells. The use of double‐cable polymers allows an enhanced control on the nanomorphology of the active blend, reducing the phase‐segregation phenomena as well as the macroscale separation between the electron acceptor and donor components. With the insertion of a thin layer of gold nanoparticles between buffer and active layer of the cells, a conversion efficiency of 5.68% is obtained. Moreover, an increased stability over time is achieved when the copolymers are photocrosslinked immediately after the annealing procedure, leading to acceptable efficiencies even after 80 h of accelerated ageing, a key feature for widespread applicability of the prepared devices. Keywords: conjugated polymers, fullerenes, functionalization of polymers, metathesis Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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51. |
Bartali R.♦, Zhang G.♦, Tong X.♦, Speranza G.♦, Micheli V.♦, Gottardi G.♦, Fedrizzi M.♦, Pierini F., Sun S.♦, Laidani N.♦, Tavares A.C.♦, Graphene oxide/reduced graphene oxide films as protective barriers on lead against differential aeration corrosion induced by water drops,
Nanoscale Advances, ISSN: 2516-0230, DOI: 10.1039/d0na00212g, Vol.2, No.11, pp.5412-5420, 2020Abstract: Graphene-based materials have demonstrated high chemical stability and are very promising for protection against the corrosion of metal surfaces. For this reason, in this work, protective layers composed of graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide and their mixtures were investigated, respectively, against the corrosion of the surface of lead induced by water drops. The materials were deposited on a Pb surface from their suspensions using a Meyer rod. The surface chemical composition, morphology and structure of the coatings were studied by X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and stylus profilometry. Moreover, a specific methodology based on the evolution of the water contact angle with time was used to evaluate the reactivity of the lead surface. The results show that the graphene-based materials can form an efficient barrier layer against the degradation of the Pb surface and that the degradation process induced by water is reduced by more than 70%. Moreover, unexpectedly, the best protective performance was obtained using graphene oxide as the coating. Affiliations:
Bartali R. | - | other affiliation | Zhang G. | - | other affiliation | Tong X. | - | other affiliation | Speranza G. | - | other affiliation | Micheli V. | - | other affiliation | Gottardi G. | - | other affiliation | Fedrizzi M. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Sun S. | - | other affiliation | Laidani N. | - | other affiliation | Tavares A.C. | - | other affiliation |
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52. |
Nakielski P., Pierini F., Blood interactions with nano- and microfibers: recent advances, challenges and applications in nano- and microfibrous hemostatic agents,
Acta Biomaterialia, ISSN: 1742-7061, DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.11.029, Vol.84, pp.63-76, 2019Abstract: Nanofibrous materials find a wide range of applications, such as vascular grafts, tissue-engineered scaffolds, or drug delivery systems. This phenomenon can be attributed to almost arbitrary biomaterial modification opportunities created by a multitude of polymers used to form nanofibers, as well as by surface functionalization methods. Among these applications, the hemostatic activity of nanofibrous materials is gaining more and more interest in biomedical research. It is therefore crucial to find both materials and nanofiber structural properties that affect organism responses. The present review critically analyzes the response of blood elements to natural and synthetic polymers, and their blends and composites. Also assessed in this review is the incorporation of pro-coagulative substances or drugs that can decrease bleeding time. The review also discusses the main animal models that were used to assess hemostatic agent safety and effectiveness. Keywords: blood-biomaterial interactions, coagulation, electrospinning, nanofibers, platelets, hemorrhage Affiliations:
Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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53. |
Enayati M.S.♦, Neisiany R.E.♦, Sajkiewicz P., Behzad T.♦, Denis P., Pierini F., Effect of nanofiller incorporation on thermomechanical and toughness of poly (vinyl alcohol)-based electrospun nanofibrous bionanocomposites,
Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics, ISSN: 0167-8442, DOI: 10.1016/j.tafmec.2018.11.006, Vol.99, pp.44-50, 2019Abstract: The current work studies the electrospun poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers and its nanocomposites including nanohydroxy apatite (nHAp) and nHAp/cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), emphasizing the impact of nanofillers on the toughness of nanofibers. PVA nanofibers were incorporated with 10 wt% of nHAp and then various amounts of CNF were added to subsequent PVA/nHAp fibrous nanocomposites. The morphology of nonwoven mats was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). While neat PVA nanofibers were smooth and uniform in thickness, the nanofiller loading resulted in thinner fibers with less uniformity. Furthermore, the thermal properties of the nonwoven network of fibers were characterized employing thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Although the maximum loss mass temperature of PVA was partially reduced upon addition of nanofillers, the onset of decomposition was not altered. The mechanical characterizations were performed using static tensile and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Compared to neat PVA mats, the tensile test of nanocomposites mats demonstrated the significant increase in Young's modulus; however, strain at break was dramatically reduced. In addition, the fracture work was assessed from the area under the stress-strain curve, which showed brittleness of fibrous nanocomposites due to the nanofiller incorporation. Field emission SEM (FE-SEM) was employed to scan the fracture surface of stretched fibers. The increase in modulus of electrospun mats was also shown by DMA in frequency mode. In parallel, both tensile test and DMA confirmed the change in fracture of PVA fibers from a tough to brittle mode, due to the nanofiller addition. Keywords: electrospun nanocomposites, nanofillers, toughness, mechanical properties Affiliations:
Enayati M.S. | - | Isfahan University of Technology (IR) | Neisiany R.E. | - | Isfahan University of Technology (IR) | Sajkiewicz P. | - | IPPT PAN | Behzad T. | - | Isfahan University of Technology (IR) | Denis P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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54. |
Lanzi M.♦, Pierini F., Effect of electron-acceptor content on the efficiency of regioregular double-cable thiophene copolymers in single-material organic solar cells,
ACS Omega, ISSN: 2470-1343, DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.9b02790, Vol.4, No.22, pp.19863-19874, 2019Abstract: Three regioregular thiophenic copolymers, characterized by a bromine atom or a C60-fullerene group at different molar ratios at the end of a decamethylenic plastifying side chain, have been successfully synthesized using a straightforward postpolymerization functionalization procedure based on a Grignard coupling reaction. Owing to their good solubility in common organic solvents, the products were fully characterized using chromatographic, spectroscopic, thermal, and morphological techniques and used as single materials in the photoactive layers of organic solar cells. The photoconversion efficiencies obtained with copolymers were compared with those of a reference cell prepared using a physical blend of the precursor homopolymer and [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester. The best results were obtained with COP2, the copolymer with a 21% molar content of C60-functionalized side chains. The use of the double-cable polymer made possible an enhanced control on the nanomorphology of the active blend, thus reducing phase-segregation phenomena as well as the macroscale separation between the electron-acceptor and -donor components, yielding a power conversion efficiency higher than that of the reference cell (4.05 vs 3.68%). Moreover, the presence of the halogen group was exploited for the photo-cross-linking of the active layer immediately after the thermal annealing procedure. The cross-linked samples showed an increased stability over time, leading to good efficiencies even after 120 h of accelerated aging: this was a key feature for the widespread practical applicability of the prepared devices. Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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55. |
Pierini F., Nakielski P., Urbanek O., Pawłowska S., Lanzi M.♦, De Sio L.♦, Kowalewski T.A., Polymer-Based Nanomaterials for Photothermal Therapy: From Light-Responsive to Multifunctional Nanoplatforms for Synergistically Combined Technologies,
BIOMACROMOLECULES, ISSN: 1525-7797, DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.8b01138, Vol.19, No.11, pp.4147-4167, 2018Abstract: Materials for the treatment of cancer have been studied comprehensively over the past few decades. Among the various kinds of biomaterials, polymer-based nanomaterials represent one of the most interesting research directions in nanomedicine because their controlled synthesis and tailored designs make it possible to obtain nanostructures with biomimetic features and outstanding biocompatibility. Understanding the chemical and physical mechanisms behind the cascading stimuli-responsiveness of smart polymers is fundamental for the design of multifunctional nanomaterials to be used as photothermal agents for targeted polytherapy. In this review, we offer an in-depth overview of the recent advances in polymer nanomaterials for photothermal therapy, describing the features of three different types of polymer-based nanomaterials. In each case, we systematically show the relevant benefits, highlighting the strategies for developing light-controlled multifunctional nanoplatforms that are responsive in a cascade manner and addressing the open issues by means of an inclusive state-of-the-art review. Moreover, we face further challenges and provide new perspectives for future strategies for developing novel polymeric nanomaterials for photothermally assisted therapies. Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | De Sio L. | - | Sapienza University of Rome (IT) | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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56. |
Enayati M.S.♦, Behzad T.♦, Sajkiewicz P., Bagheri R.♦, Ghasemi-Mobarakeh L.♦, Pierini F., Theoretical and experimental study of the stiffness of electrospun composites of poly(vinyl alcohol), cellulose nanofibers, and nanohydroxy apatite,
CELLULOSE, ISSN: 0969-0239, DOI: 10.1007/s10570-017-1601-6, Vol.25, No.1, pp.65-75, 2018Abstract: The present study aims to theoretically model and verify the mechanical behavior of electrospun fibers of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) reinforced by nanohydroxy apatite (nHAp) and cellulose nanofibers (CNF), the three composites designated as PVA/nHAp, PVA/CNF, and PVA/nHAp/CNF. Tensile tests and AFM nanoindentation studies were used to measure tensile modulus of electrospun scaffolds and single fibers respectively. Halpin–Tsai and Ouali models were applied to predict the stiffness of electrospun mats. Theoretical analysis according to the Halpin–Tsai model showed that CNF have no preferred orientation in the electrospun fibers, particularly at higher filler content. Additionally, this model provided a better prediction than Ouali model, especially at lower filler content. Theoretical models based on the geometry of an unit cell in open-cell structure such as honeycomb, tetrakaidecahedron and cube models simulate electrospun scaffolds. Among the structural models for analysis of porous scaffolds, the honeycomb model showed the best prediction, tetrakaidecahedron model—a moderate one, and cube model was the worst. In general, it was proved by both experiment and theory that the porous structure of electrospun mat caused significant modulus reduction of nanocomposites. Keywords: Nanocomposites, Cellulose nanofibers, Electrospinning, Modulus Affiliations:
Enayati M.S. | - | Isfahan University of Technology (IR) | Behzad T. | - | Isfahan University of Technology (IR) | Sajkiewicz P. | - | IPPT PAN | Bagheri R. | - | Isfahan University of Technology (IR) | Ghasemi-Mobarakeh L. | - | Isfahan University of Technology (IR) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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57. |
Pawłowska S., Kowalewski T.A., Pierini F., Fibrous polymer nanomaterials for biomedical applications and their transport by fluids: an overview,
SOFT MATTER, ISSN: 1744-683X, DOI: 10.1039/C8SM01269E, Vol.14, pp.8421-8444, 2018Abstract: Over the past few decades, there has been strong interest in the development of new micro- and nanomaterials for biomedical applications. Their use in the form of capsules, particles or filaments suspended in body fluids is associated with conformational changes and hydrodynamic interactions responsible for their transport. The dynamics of fibres or other long objects in Poiseuille flow is one of the fundamental problems in a variety of biomedical contexts, such as mobility of proteins, dynamics of DNA or other biological polymers, cell movement, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. In this review, we discuss several important applications of micro and nanoobjects in this field and try to understand the problems of their transport in flow resulting from material-environment interactions in typical, crowded, and complex biological fluids. Our aim is to elucidate the relationship between the nano- and microscopic structures of elongated polymer particles and their flow properties, thus opening the possibility to design nanoobjects that can be efficiently transported by body fluids for targeted drug release or local tissue regeneration. Affiliations:
Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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58. |
Lanzi M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Giorgini L.♦, Marinelli M.♦, Pierini F., Effect of the incorporation of an Ag nanoparticle interlayer on the photovoltaic performance of green bulk heterojunction water-soluble polythiophene solar cells,
POLYMER, ISSN: 0032-3861, DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2018.07.012, Vol.149, pp.273-285, 2018Abstract: Two water-soluble regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophene)s, incorporating aminic groups at the end of the side chains, have been synthesized using a post-polymerization functionalization procedure on a ω-bromine substituted polyalkylthiophene. The high solubility of the obtained polymers in water allowed for the preparation of “green” bulk heterojunction solar cells which reached a power conversion efficiency of 4.85% when PC61BM was used as electron-acceptor material. Improved optical absorption and photocurrent have been obtained by interposing a layer of Ag nanoparticles between the buffer and the photoactive layer, leading to a final power conversion efficiency of 5.51%. Keywords: Water-soluble polythiophene, Bulk heterojunction solar cell, Organic photovoltaic Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Giorgini L. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Marinelli M. | - | other affiliation | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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59. |
Urbanek O., Pierini F., Choińska E.♦, Sajkiewicz P., Bil M.♦, Święszkowski W.♦, Effect of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles addition on structure properties of poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) after gamma sterilization,
Polymer Composites, ISSN: 0272-8397, DOI: 10.1002/pc.24028, Vol.39, No.4, pp.1023-1031, 2018Abstract: Physical and chemical factors resulting from the sterilization methods may affect the structure and properties of the materials which undergo this procedure. Poly(l-lactide-co-glicolide) (PLGA) is commonly used for medical applications, but, due to its inadequate mechanical properties, it is not recommended for load-bearing applications. One of the methods for improving PLGA mechanical properties is addition of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nHAp). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nanoparticles addition on PLGA structure and properties after gamma radiation. According to our results, reduction of the molecular mass caused by gamma radiation was lower for PLGA with nHAp addition. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicates an increase of crystallinity caused both by nHAp and gamma radiation. The first phenomenon can be explained by heteronucleation, while the second one is most probably related to higher molecular mobility of degrading polymer. Moreover, addition of nanoparticles increases thermal stability and affects the Young's modulus changes after gamma radiation. Affiliations:
Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Choińska E. | - | Warsaw University of Technology (PL) | Sajkiewicz P. | - | IPPT PAN | Bil M. | - | Warsaw University of Technology (PL) | Święszkowski W. | - | other affiliation |
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60. |
Pierini F., Lanzi M.♦, Nakielski P., Pawłowska S., Urbanek O., Zembrzycki K., Kowalewski T.A., Single-Material Organic Solar Cells Based on Electrospun Fullerene-Grafted Polythiophene Nanofibers,
Macromolecules, ISSN: 0024-9297, DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.7b00857, Vol.50, No.13, pp.4972-4981, 2017Abstract: Highly efficient single-material organic solar cells (SMOCs) based on fullerene-grafted polythiophenes were fabricated by incorporating electrospun one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures obtained from polymer chain stretching. Poly(3-alkylthiophene) chains were chemically tailored in order to reduce the side effects of charge recombination which severely affected SMOC photovoltaic performance. This enabled us to synthesize a donor–acceptor conjugated copolymer with high solubility, molecular weight, regioregularity, and fullerene content. We investigated the correlations among the active layer hierarchical structure given by the inclusion of electrospun nanofibers and the solar cell photovoltaic properties. The results indicated that SMOC efficiency can be strongly increased by optimizing the supramolecular and nanoscale structure of the active layer, while achieving the highest reported efficiency value (PCE = 5.58%). The enhanced performance may be attributed to well-packed and properly oriented polymer chains. Overall, our work demonstrates that the active material structure optimization obtained by including electrospun nanofibers plays a pivotal role in the development of efficient SMOCs and suggests an interesting perspective for the improvement of copolymer-based photovoltaic device performance using an alternative pathway. Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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61. |
Pawłowska S., Nakielski P., Pierini F., Piechocka I.K., Zembrzycki K., Kowalewski T.A., Lateral migration of electrospun hydrogel nanofilaments in an oscillatory flow,
PLOS ONE, ISSN: 1932-6203, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187815, Vol.12, No.11, pp.1-21, 2017Abstract: The recent progress in bioengineering has created great interest in the dynamics and manipulation of long, deformable macromolecules interacting with fluid flow. We report experimental data on the cross-flow migration, bending, and buckling of extremely deformable hydrogel nanofilaments conveyed by an oscillatory flow into a microchannel. The changes in migration velocity and filament orientation are related to the flow velocity and the filament's initial position, deformation, and length. The observed migration dynamics of hydrogel filaments qualitatively confirms the validity of the previously developed worm-like bead-chain hydrodynamic model. The experimental data collected may help to verify the role of hydrodynamic interactions in molecular simulations of long molecular chains dynamics. Affiliations:
Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Piechocka I.K. | - | IPPT PAN | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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62. |
Urbanek O., Sajkiewicz P., Pierini F., The effect of polarity in the electrospinning process on PCL/chitosan nanofibres' structure, properties and efficiency of surface modification,
POLYMER, ISSN: 0032-3861, DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2017.07.064, Vol.124, pp.168-175, 2017Abstract: The aim of this research was to study the effect of charge polarity applied to the spinning nozzle on the structure and properties of polycaprolactone/chitosan (PCL/CHT) blends, in particular the efficiency of further surface modification by chondroitin sulphate (CS). The observed differences in the morphology and properties of fibres formed at different polarities were interpreted in terms of molecular interactions occurring in the system. FTIR results indicate stronger PCL-chitosan interactions at negative polarity, resulting in lower PCL crystallinity and crystal size distribution determined by DSC, as well as lower wettability. The charge polarity influences PCL/CHT fibre morphology and tailors some of their properties, e.g. wettability, mechanical properties and the efficiency of surface modification. Better efficiency of CS attachment was observed at negative polarity using atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is most probably related to higher chitosan content at the fibres' surface being attracted by the negative external potential. Keywords: Polycaprolactone/chitosan nanofibres, Charge potential effect in electrospinning, Polycaprolactone-chitosan interactions Affiliations:
Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Sajkiewicz P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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63. |
Lanzi M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Giorgini L.♦, Mucci A.♦, Pierini F., Di-Nicola F.P.♦, Water-soluble polythiophenes as efficient charge-transport layers for the improvement of photovoltaic performance in bulk heterojunction polymeric solar cells,
EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL, ISSN: 0014-3057, DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2017.10.032, Vol.97, pp.378-388, 2017Abstract: Water-soluble regioregular poly{3-[(6-sodium sulfonate)hexyl]thiophene} (PT6S) and poly{3-[(6-trimethylammoniumbromide)hexyl]thiophene} (PT6N) have been synthesized and employed both as photoactive layers for the assembling of “green” bulk-heterojunction organic solar cells and as charge-collection layers in a cell with “classic” architecture. While the photovoltaic performances obtained with the two aforementioned polymers were lower than the reference cell, their latter use allowed to notably increase the inherent J-V properties, leading to a considerable enhancement in the overall photovoltaic output. The power conversion efficiency of the optimized multilayer BHJ solar cell reached 4.78%, revealing a higher efficiency than the reference cell (3.63%). Keywords: Water-soluble polymer, Polythiophene derivative, Bulk heterojunction, Organic photovoltaic, Interfacial layer Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Giorgini L. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Mucci A. | - | University of Modena (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Di-Nicola F.P. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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64. |
Lanzi M.♦, Salatelli E.♦, Di-Nicola F.P.♦, Zuppiroli L.♦, Pierini F., A new photocrosslinkable oligothiophene for organic solar cells with enhanced stability,
MATERIALS CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS, ISSN: 0254-0584, DOI: 10.1016/j.matchemphys.2016.10.034, Vol.186, pp.98-107, 2017Abstract: A novel thiophenic tetramer containing a cinnamate group in the side chain with a functionalization degree of 50% is reported. The tetramer was obtained by means of a simple and straightforward procedure involving the functionalization of a p-methoxyphenoxy substituted thiophenic precursor, which led to a soluble product with a good yield. The oligomer was fully characterized from a structural and chemical point of view and employed for the fabrication of small molecule organic solar cells exploiting the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) architecture. The presence of an UV-light sensitive group in the tetramer allowed the photocrosslinking of tetramer/PCBM blends, giving high values of photocurrent and conversion efficiency for the exposed samples. Moreover, the UV-treated devices showed improved stability, even upon heating for three days at 130 °C, thus confirming that photocrosslinking can strongly reduce phase segregation under severe operational conditions. Keywords: electronic materials, polymers, fullerenes, nanostructures, electrical characterization, semiconductors Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Salatelli E. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Di-Nicola F.P. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Zuppiroli L. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN |
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65. |
Pierini F., Lanzi M.♦, Nakielski P., Kowalewski T.A., Electrospun Polyaniline-Based Composite Nanofibers: Tuning the Electrical Conductivity by Tailoring the Structure of Thiol-Protected Metal Nanoparticles,
Journal of Nanomaterials, ISSN: 1687-4110, DOI: 10.1155/2017/6142140, Vol.2017, pp.6142140-1-10, 2017Abstract: Composite nanofibers made of a polyaniline-based polymer blend and different thiol-capped metal nanoparticles were prepared using ex situ synthesis and electrospinning technique. The effects of the nanoparticle composition and chemical structure on the electrical properties of the nanocomposites were investigated. This study confirmed that Brust's procedure is an effective method for the synthesis of sub-10 nm silver, gold, and silver-gold alloy nanoparticles protected with different types of thiols. Electron microscopy results demonstrated that electrospinning is a valuable technique for the production of composite nanofibers with similar morphology and revealed that nanofillers are well-dispersed into the polymer matrix. X-ray diffraction tests proved the lack of a significant influence of the nanoparticle chemical structure on the polyaniline chain arrangement. However, the introduction of conductive nanofillers in the polymer matrix influences the charge transport noticeably improving electrical conductivity. The enhancement of electrical properties is mediated by the nanoparticle capping layer structure. The metal nanoparticle core composition is a key parameter, which exerted a significant influence on the conductivity of the nanocomposites. These results prove that the proposed method can be used to tune the electrical properties of nanocomposites. Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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66. |
Urbanek O., Sajkiewicz P., Pierini F., Czerkies M., Kołbuk D., Structure and properties of polycaprolactone/chitosan nonwovens tailored by solvent systems,
Biomedical Materials, ISSN: 1748-6041, DOI: 10.1088/1748-605X/aa5647, Vol.12, No.1, pp.015020-1-12, 2017Abstract: Electrospinning of chitosan blends is a reasonable idea to prepare fibre mats for biomedical applications. Synthetic and natural components provide, for example, appropriate mechanical strength and biocompatibility, respectively. However, solvent characteristics and the polyelectrolyte nature of chitosan influence the spinnability of these blends. In order to compare the effect of solvent on polycaprolactone/chitosan fibres, two types of the most commonly used solvent systems were chosen, namely 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP) and acetic acid (AA)/formic acid (FA). Results obtained by various experimental methods clearly indicated the effect of the solvent system on the structure and properties of electrospun polycaprolactone/chitosan fibres. Viscosity measurements confirmed different polymer–solvent interactions. Various molecular interactions resulting in different macromolecular conformations of chitosan influenced its spinnability and properties. HFIP enabled fibres to be obtained whose average diameter was less than 250 nm while maintaining the brittle and hydrophilic character of the nonwoven, typical for the chitosan component. Spectroscopy studies revealed the formation of chitosan salts in the case of the AA/FA solvent system. Chitosan salts visibly influenced the structure and properties of the prepared fibre mats. The use of AA/FA caused a reduction of Young's modulus and wettability of the proposed blends. It was confirmed that wettability, mechanical properties and the antibacterial effect of polycaprolactone/chitosan fibres may be tailored by selecting an appropriate solvent system. The MTT cell proliferation assay revealed an increase of cytotoxicity to mouse fibroblasts in the case of 25% w/w of chitosan in electrospun nonwovens. Keywords: chitosan, electrospinning, PCL/chitosan fibres, solvent system, chitosan salts Affiliations:
Urbanek O. | - | IPPT PAN | Sajkiewicz P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Czerkies M. | - | IPPT PAN | Kołbuk D. | - | IPPT PAN |
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67. |
Pierini F., Lanzi M.♦, Nakielski P., Pawłowska S., Zembrzycki K., Kowalewski T.A., Electrospun poly(3-hexylthiophene)/poly(ethylene oxide)/graphene oxide composite nanofibers: effects of graphene oxide reduction,
Polymers for Advanced Technologies, ISSN: 1042-7147, DOI: 10.1002/pat.3816, Vol.27, No.11, pp.1465-1475, 2016Abstract: In this article, we report on the production by electrospinning of P3HT/PEO, P3HT/PEO/GO, and P3HT/PEO/rGO nanofibers in which the filler is homogeneously dispersed and parallel oriented along the fibers axis. The effect of nanofillers' presence inside nanofibers and GO reduction was studied, in order to reveal the influence of the new hierarchical structure on the electrical conductivity and mechanical properties. An in-depth characterization of the purity and regioregularity of the starting P3HT as well as the morphology and chemical structure of GO and rGO was carried out. The morphology of the electrospun nanofibers was examined by both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The fibrous nanocomposites are also characterized by differential scanning calorimetry to investigate their chemical structure and polymer chains arrangements. Finally, the electrical conductivity of the electrospun fibers and the elastic modulus of the single fibers are evaluated using a four-point probe method and atomic force microscopy nanoindentation, respectively. The electrospun materials crystallinity as well as the elastic modulus increase with the addition of the nanofillers while the electrical conductivity is positively influenced by the GO reduction. Keywords: electrospun composite nanofibers, poly(3-hexylthiophene), graphene oxide, electrical conductivity, mechanical properties Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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68. |
Pierini F., Zembrzycki K., Nakielski P., Pawłowska S., Kowalewski T.A., Atomic force microscopy combined with optical tweezers (AFM/OT),
MEASUREMENT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ISSN: 0957-0233, DOI: 10.1088/0957-0233/27/2/025904, Vol.27, pp.025904-1-11, 2016Abstract: The role of mechanical properties is essential to understand molecular, biological materials, and nanostructures dynamics and interaction processes. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is the most commonly used method of direct force evaluation, but due to its technical limitations this single probe technique is unable to detect forces with femtonewton resolution. In this paper we present the development of a combined atomic force microscopy and optical tweezers (AFM/OT) instrument. The focused laser beam, on which optical tweezers are based, provides us with the ability to manipulate small dielectric objects and to use it as a high spatial and temporal resolution displacement and force sensor in the same AFM scanning zone. We demonstrate the possibility to develop a combined instrument with high potential in nanomechanics, molecules manipulation and biological studies. AFM/OT equipment is described and characterized by studying the ability to trap dielectric objects and quantifying the detectable and applicable forces. Finally, optical tweezers calibration methods and instrument applications are given. Keywords: optical trap, nanomanipulation, nanomechanics, femtonewton forces Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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69. |
Nakielski P., Pawłowska S., Pierini F., Liwińska W.♦, Hejduk P.♦, Zembrzycki K., Zabost E.♦, Kowalewski T.A., Hydrogel nanofilaments via core-shell electrospinning,
PLOS ONE, ISSN: 1932-6203, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129816, Vol.10, No.6, pp.e0129816-1-16, 2015Abstract: Recent biomedical hydrogels applications require the development of nanostructures with controlled diameter and adjustable mechanical properties. Here we present a technique for the production of flexible nanofilaments to be used as drug carriers or in microfluidics, with deformability and elasticity resembling those of long DNA chains. The fabrication method is based on the core-shell electrospinning technique with core solution polymerisation post electrospinning. Produced from the nanofibers highly deformable hydrogel nanofilaments are characterised by their Brownian motion and bending dynamics. The evaluated mechanical properties are compared with AFM nanoindentation tests.
Correction: Hydrogel Nanofilaments via Core-Shell Electrospinning, Nakielski P., Pawłowska S., Pierini F., Liwińska W., Hejduk P., Zembrzycki K., Zabost E., Kowalewski T.A., PLOS ONE, ISSN: 1932-6203, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0133458, Vol.10, No.7, pp.e0133458-1-2, 2015
Keywords: Gels, Nanomaterials, Atomic force microscopy, Polymerization, Bending, Mass diffusivity, Mechanical properties, Hydrodynamics Affiliations:
Nakielski P. | - | IPPT PAN | Pawłowska S. | - | IPPT PAN | Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Liwińska W. | - | other affiliation | Hejduk P. | - | other affiliation | Zembrzycki K. | - | IPPT PAN | Zabost E. | - | University of Warsaw (PL) | Kowalewski T.A. | - | IPPT PAN |
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70. |
Pierini F., Lanzi M.♦, Lesci I.G.♦, Roveri N.♦, Comparison between Inorganic Geomimetic Chrysotile and Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes in the Preparation of One-dimensional Conducting Polymer Nanocomposites,
Fibers and Polymers, ISSN: 1229-9197, DOI: 10.1007/s12221-015-0426-x, Vol.16, No.2, pp.426-433, 2015Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the role of the nanofillers spatial arrangement in the electrical properties of hybrid organic-inorganic fibers. In this paper, we have presented experimental results for preparation of fibers with a nanometric diameter based on a polyaniline/poly(ethylene oxide) doped blend and geomimetic chrysotile nanotubes. The nanostructured material was prepared using electrospinning techniques. Electrospun fibers made by pristine polymers and by the same blend loaded with carbon nanotubes were used as reference materials to compare the structural, and electrical properties of the novel organic-inorganic material. Generally, electrical properties were improved by the addition of materials that have high conductivity. Electrospun fibers filled with a traditional insulator like chrysotile have shown higher electrical conductivity than the pristine materials. In order to fully understand how structural variations impact upon the electrical conductivity the materials were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy (RS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and four-point probe method. The results suggest that the occurred electrical conductivity gain could be attributed to parallel orientation of the chrysotile nanotubes and higher crystallinity induced by the one-dimensional nanostructured filler materials. The obtained results bring us one step closer to using intrinsically conducting polymers (ICPs) in the creation of functionalized polymeric nanocomposites for nanotechnology. Keywords: Nanocomposites, Conductive polymer, Electrospinning, Chrysotile, Carbon nanotubes Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | IPPT PAN | Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Lesci I.G. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Roveri N. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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71. |
Lanzi M.♦, Paganin L.♦, Pierini F.♦, Errani F.♦, Di-Nicola F.P.♦, Use of poly(3-methylthio)thiophene blends for direct laser tracing and bulck heterojunction solar cells,
REACTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS, ISSN: 1381-5148, DOI: 10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2014.07.007, Vol.83, pp.33-41, 2014Abstract: In this article we demonstrate the use of a blend made of two regioregular polythiophenic derivatives, namely poly(3-methylthio)thiophene and poly(3-hexyl)thiophene, to obtain conductive traces by the simple laser exposure of their thin films to a suitable laser source. The polymeric blend was also tested as a photoactive layer for BHJ solar cells, showing an improved surface morphology and a wider absorption spectrum, thus resulting in an enhanced photovoltaic performance. In the standard condition normally used for the cell preparation, we obtained a 3.16% power conversion efficiency. The device showed good reproducibility and stability over time. Keywords: Electrical conductivity, Laser tracing, Bulk heterojunction polymeric solar cells, Regioregular polyalkylthiophenes, Polymer blends Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Paganin L. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | other affiliation | Errani F. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Di-Nicola F.P. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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72. |
Lesci I.G.♦, Balducci G.♦, Pierini F.♦, Soavi F.♦, Roveri N.♦, Surface features and thermal stability of mesoporous Fe doped geoinspired synthetic chrysotile nanotubes,
Microporous and Mesoporous Materials, ISSN: 1387-1811, DOI: 10.1016/j.micromeso.2014.06.002, Vol.197, pp.8-16, 2014Abstract: Synthetic mesoporous Fe doped geoinspired nanotubes have been utilized to evaluate the modification of the surface composition, morphology charge distribution and thermal stability as functions of the Fe doping extent and Fe prevalent substitution into the octahedral or tetrahedral sites. FTIR-ATR spectroscopy analysis has allowed to highlight the chrysotile structure modification by the Fe substitution to Mg or Si and to underline clearly the crucial role of the Fe doping in the octahedral sheet in modifying chrysotile structure and morphology. XPS analysis, ζ-potentials and porosity characterization have allowed to define the propriety of the chrysotile surface structure when iron replaces Mg in octahedral or Si in tetrahedral sites. DTA analysis has allowed to relate the effect of Fe doping on the chemical–physical characteristics of both synthetic and mineral chrysotile. We have observed that the simultaneous decrease in dehydroxylation and recrystallization temperature occurs when the Fe increases on surface and this is due to the increased substitution of Fe in octahedron. The results highlight the relevance to estimate the health hazard of the natural asbestos fibres by valuating the role of Fe surface throughout the use of geoinspired chrysotile synthesised under controlled stoichiometry and structure utilizing it as a selected reference standard. Keywords: Asbestos, Mesoporous synthetic chrysotile, Geoinspired inorganic nanotubes, Fe doped chrysotile, Surface functionalities Affiliations:
Lesci I.G. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Balducci G. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Pierini F. | - | other affiliation | Soavi F. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Roveri N. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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73. |
Lanzi M.♦, Di-Nicola F.P.♦, Livi M.♦, Paganin L.♦, Cappelli F.♦, Pierini F.♦, Synthesis and characterization of conjugated polymers for the obtainment of conductive patterns through laser tracing,
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE, ISSN: 0022-2461, DOI: 10.1007/s10853-013-7204-1, Vol.48, pp.3877-3893, 2013Abstract: This article describes the preparation of thin films of conjugated polymers which can enhance their specific electrical conductivity by several orders of magnitude by changing their state from insulating to conducting materials. The examined polymers, i.e., a polyacetylenic and a polythiophenic derivative, are functionalized with thioalkylic side chains and are soluble in common organic solvents from which they lead to thick homogeneous films. The films can be deposited on different substrates, either rigid or flexible, and can be easily exposed to laser radiation to make them conductive. The process is irreversible, and the final conductivity is stable over time, even in the presence of high temperatures (up to 180°C), moisture, and air. The high stability of treated samples, easy polymer synthesis and quick and inexpensive suitably tailored laser tracing procedure make these materials very promising for applications in organic electronics and in the development of new electronic circuitry. Affiliations:
Lanzi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Di-Nicola F.P. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Livi M. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Paganin L. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Cappelli F. | - | Stem S.a.s. (IT) | Pierini F. | - | other affiliation |
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74. |
Pierini F.♦, Foresti E.♦, Fracasso G.♦, Lesci I.G.♦, Roveri N.♦, Potential Technological Applications of Synthetic Geomimetic Nanotubes,
ISRAEL JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY, ISSN: 0021-2148, DOI: 10.1002/ijch.201000062, Vol.50, pp.484-499, 2010Abstract: Geomimetic chrysotile nanotubes have a high potentiality in nanotechnological applications. These synthetic inorganic nanotubes can be used to prepare quantum wires with interesting electrical and optical properties. In fact, they behave as host systems, exhibiting a constant inner diameter inferior to 7 nm, a low tendency to aggregate and large inter-channel separation, preventing the interaction between individual guest filled nanomaterial acting as an unisosotropic confining structure. The chemical-physical properties of undoped and differently Fe doped geoinspired chrysotile synthetic nanotubes have been reviewed confirming that these characteristic features make synthetic chrysotile nanotubes excellent candidates to prepare innovative inorganic nanowires. Furthermore, the possibility to synthesize undoped geomimetic chrysotile nanotubes with high reproducibility and crystallinity avoids cytotoxicity, making them safe for human health. Keywords: chrysotile, geomimetic nanostructures, inorganic nanotubes, nanotechnology, nanowires Affiliations:
Pierini F. | - | other affiliation | Foresti E. | - | other affiliation | Fracasso G. | - | other affiliation | Lesci I.G. | - | University of Bologna (IT) | Roveri N. | - | University of Bologna (IT) |
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