Instytut Podstawowych Problemów Techniki

Ahmed Abdullah A. A., Alegret N., Almeida B., ... ., Pierini F., ... ., Zargarian S., Interfacing with the Brain: How Nanotechnology Can Contribute, ACS Nano, ISSN: 1936-0851, DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c10525, Vol.19, No.11, pp.10630-10717, 2025

Abstract:
Interfacing artificial devices with the human brain is the central goal of neurotechnology. Yet, our imaginations are often limited by currently available paradigms and technologies. Suggestions for brain–machine interfaces have changed over time, along with the available technology. Mechanical levers and cable winches were used to move parts of the brain during the mechanical age. Sophisticated electronic wiring and remote control have arisen during the electronic age, ultimately leading to plug-and-play computer interfaces. Nonetheless, our brains are so complex that these visions, until recently, largely remained unreachable dreams. The general problem, thus far, is that most of our technology is mechanically and/or electrically engineered, whereas the brain is a living, dynamic entity. As a result, these worlds are difficult to interface with one another. Nanotechnology, which encompasses engineered solid-state objects and integrated circuits, excels at small length scales of single to a few hundred nanometers and, thus, matches the sizes of biomolecules, biomolecular assemblies, and parts of cells. Consequently, we envision nanomaterials and nanotools as opportunities to interface with the brain in alternative ways. Here, we review the existing literature on the use of nanotechnology in brain–machine interfaces and look forward in discussing perspectives and limitations based on the authors’ expertise across a range of complementary disciplines─from neuroscience, engineering, physics, and chemistry to biology and medicine, computer science and mathematics, and social science and jurisprudence. We focus on nanotechnology but also include information from related fields when useful and complementary.

Dera W., Konopacka H., Jarząbek D., Development of a novel nickel-based metal force microsensor using bottom-up approach, Precision Engineering, ISSN: 1873-2372, DOI: 10.1016/j.precisioneng.2025.05.003, pp.251-261, 2025

Abstract:
The advancement of force microsensors has shifted towards alternative fabrication methods offering enhanced flexibility, cost efficiency, and adaptability. Traditional silicon-based sensors face limitations such as mechanical fragility, thermal expansion mismatches, and high fabrication costs, necessitating alternative approaches. This study explores a bottom-up fabrication approach using electro-galvanic deposition to develop nickel-based capacitive force microsensors. Unlike conventional methods, electro-galvanic deposition enables precise control over material thickness and microstructure, allowing for the fabrication of robust, metal-based sensors with superior toughness and mechanical reliability. Nickel, chosen for its high tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and adaptability to high temperatures, is well-suited for demanding applications. The fabrication process involves UV maskless lithography for mold patterning, followed by electro-galvanic deposition in a modified Watt's bath with saccharin additives to control grain structure. This enables fine-tuning of nickel's mechanical properties, enhancing hardness and ductility. The capacitive comb sensor structure, integrated with a high-resolution capacitance-to-digital converter, enables precise force measurements with a linear response and high sensitivity. Experimental validation included mechanical testing, calibration, and stability analysis under controlled loading conditions. Results confirmed a strong linear force-capacitance relationship (R2 = 0.9898) and excellent long-term stability, with minimal capacitance drift under sustained load.

Keywords:
Nickel-based sensor, Bottom-up process for sensor fabrication, Electro-galvanic deposition, Capacitance stability, Silicon sensor limitations, Industrial sensor applications, Sensor durability, Displacement-force calibration

Kulicki M., Carlos C., Trzciński T., Będkowski J., Stereńczak K., Artificial Intelligence and Terrestrial Point Clouds for Forest Monitoring, Current Forestry Reports, ISSN: 2198-6436, DOI: 10.1007/s40725-024-00234-4, Vol.11, pp.5-1-5-19, 2025

Abstract:
[Purpose of Review:] This paper provides an overview of integrating artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning (DL), with ground-based LiDAR point clouds for forest monitoring. It identifies trends, highlights advancements, and discusses future directions for AI-supported forest monitoring.

[Recent Findings:] Recent studies indicate that DL models significantly outperform traditional machine learning methods in forest inventory tasks using terrestrial LiDAR data. Key advancements have been made in areas such as semantic segmentation, which involves labeling points corresponding to different vegetation structures (e.g., leaves, branches, stems), individual tree segmentation, and species classification. Main challenges include a lack of standardized evaluation metrics, limited code and data sharing, and reproducibility issues. A critical issue is the need for extensive reference data, which hinders the development and evaluation of robust AI models. Solutions such as the creation of large-scale benchmark datasets and the use of synthetic data generation are proposed to address these challenges. Promising AI paradigms like Graph Neural Networks, semi-supervised learning, self-supervised learning, and generative modeling have shown potential but are not yet fully explored in forestry applications.

[Summary:] The review underscores the transformative role of AI, particularly DL, in enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of forest monitoring using ground-based 3D point clouds. To advance the field, there is a critical need for comprehensive benchmark datasets, open-access policies for data and code, and the exploration of novel DL architectures and learning paradigms. These steps are essential for improving research reproducibility, facilitating comparative studies, and unlocking new insights into forest management and conservation.

Keywords:
Deep learning, Machine learning, Forest inventory, Tree characteristics, Open data, Precision forestry, LiDAR, TLS

Kulus D., Tymoszuk A., Gościnna K., Osial M., Enhancing Germination and Growth of Chrysanthemum Synthetic Seeds Through Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Indole-3-Acetic Acid: Impact of Treatment Duration on Metabolic Activity and Genetic Stability, Nanotechnology, Science and Applications, ISSN: 1177-8903, DOI: 10.2147/NSA.S503868, Vol.18, pp.139-155, 2025

Keywords:
antioxidant capacity, Chrysanthemum × morifolium /Ramat./ Hemsl., molecular markers, nanotechnology, polyphenols, SCoT

Rommie E. A., Aqvist J., Bahar I., Battistini F., Bellaiche A., Beltran D., Philip C. B., Bonomi M., Gregory R. B., Richard A. B., Bussi G., Carloni P., David A. C., Cavalli A., Chia-En A. C., Thomas E. Cheatham I., Margaret S. C., Chipot C., Lillian T. C., Choudhary P., G Andres C., Clementi C., Poma Bernaola A.M., The need to implement FAIR principles in biomolecular simulations, Nature Methods, ISSN: 1548-7091, DOI: 10.1038/s41592-025-02635-0, pp.1-5, 2025

Abstract:
In the Big Data era, a change of paradigm in the use of molecular dynamics is required.
Trajectories should be stored under FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable and
reusable) requirements to favor its reuse by the community under an open science paradigm.

Keywords:
FAIR principles,MD,Data,Biomolecular Simulation

Rogala M., Ferdynus M., Kopeć M., The effect of multilevel spherical triggers on the crashworthiness capacity of thin-walled structures, Aerospace Science and Technology, ISSN: 1270-9638, DOI: 10.1016/j.ast.2025.110299, Vol.163, No.110299, pp.1-18, 2025

Abstract:
Progressive dynamic crushing remains a significant focus in contemporary research aimed at developing and optimizing energy-absorbing structures. This study investigates thin-walled passive energy absorbers featuring multi-level crush initiators in the form of spherical embossments. The experimental setup involved aluminum columns subjected to an impact energy of 1700 J. These columns were designed with varying numbers of embossment levels. Key parameters of the spherical embossments included diameters ranging from 12 to 36 mm and depths from 1.2 to 4.8 mm. Dynamic impact tests were conducted using an Instron Ceast 9350 HES drop tower, with deformation behavior captured via a Phantom Miro M310 high-speed camera. Complementary finite element analyses were also performed to obtain force-displacement responses and crushing efficiency indicators, enabling a comparative assessment of structural performance based on different crush initiator configurations. The results demonstrate that spherical embossments enhance the stability of the crushing process by reducing the peak crushing force. Furthermore, incorporating additional embossment levels increases the mean crushing force and improves the overall energy absorption efficiency of the passive energy absorber.

Keywords:
Multi-level trigger , Spherical embossment, Crashworthiness

Kędziorski P., Skoratko A., Katzer J., Tysiąc P., Jagoda M., Zawidzki M., Harnessing low-cost LiDAR scanners for deformation assessment of 3D-printed concrete-plastic columns with cross-sections based on fractals after critical compressive loading, MEASUREMENT, ISSN: 0263-2241, DOI: 10.1016/j.measurement.2025.117015, Vol.249, pp.1-16, 2025

Abstract:
This article aims to explore the potential of using low-cost devices (iPhone and iPad) equipped with LiDAR scanners in the context of measuring the volume of concrete-plastic specimens with complex shapes. The goal was to assess whether these tools can support or even replace traditional metrology methods. For the purpose of the research program concrete-plastic columns with very complex cross-sections (based on different fractals) were harnessed. The research team was focused on analyzing the potential of using this technology to measure the volume of concrete-plastic structural elements created with the help of 3D printing. The tests were conducted under laboratory conditions. The effectiveness of the proposed approach was compared with results obtained using photogrammetry. The challenges of measurement accuracy, the impact of specimen shape, the impact of material and needed optimization of post-processing on the achieved results were also discussed.

Keywords:
3-D printing, LiDAR, Scanning, Fractals, Concrete

Tytko G., Adamczyk-Habrajska M., Linke Y., Liu Z., Kopeć M., High frequency eddy current method in inspection of aluminide coatings integrity after simulating service loads, MEASUREMENT, ISSN: 0263-2241, DOI: 10.1016/j.measurement.2025.117356, Vol.252, No.117356, pp.1-11, 2025

Abstract:
This study investigates the use of high-frequency eddy current testing (ECT) to assess the structural integrity of aluminide coatings on MAR-M247 nickel superalloy under simulated fatigue conditions. Aluminide coatings, deposited via chemical vapor deposition at thicknesses of 20 µm and 40 µm, were tested using custom-designed probes optimized for defect detection. Results demonstrate that substrate grain structure and coating thickness significantly influence coating durability, with fine-grain substrates exhibiting the least resistance changes and greatest fatigue tolerance. Eddy current signal variations correlated with microstructural changes, enabling detection of damage otherwise invisible to traditional methods. These findings establish ECT as a precise, non-destructive approach for monitoring aluminide coatings in critical applications.

Keywords:
Nickel alloys, Aluminide coating, Non-destructive testing, Eddy current testing

Deshpande S., Rappel H., Hobbs M., Bordas S., Lengiewicz J.A., Gaussian process regression + deep neural network autoencoder for probabilistic surrogate modeling in nonlinear mechanics of solids, COMPUTER METHODS IN APPLIED MECHANICS AND ENGINEERING, ISSN: 0045-7825, DOI: 10.1016/j.cma.2025.117790, Vol.437, No.117790, pp.1-17, 2025

Abstract:
Many real-world applications demand accurate and fast predictions, as well as reliable uncertainty estimates. However, quantifying uncertainty on high-dimensional predictions is still a severely under-investigated problem, especially when input–output relationships are non-linear. To handle this problem, the present work introduces an innovative approach that combines autoencoder deep neural networks with the probabilistic regression capabilities of Gaussian processes. The autoencoder provides a low-dimensional representation of the solution space, while the Gaussian process is a Bayesian method that provides a probabilistic mapping between the low-dimensional inputs and outputs. We validate the proposed framework for its application to surrogate modeling of non-linear finite element simulations. Our findings highlight that the proposed framework is computationally efficient as well as accurate in predicting non-linear deformations of solid bodies subjected to external forces, all the while providing insightful uncertainty assessments.

Keywords:
Surrogate modeling,Deep neural networks,Gaussian proces,Autoencoders,Uncertainty quantification,Finite element method

Włoczewski M., Jasiewicz K., Jenczyk P., Gadalińska E., Kulikowski K., Zhang Y., Li R., Jarząbek D. M., AlCoCrFeNiTi0.2 High-Entropy Alloy Under Plasma Nitriding: Complex Microstructure Transformation, Mechanical and Tribological Enhancement, METALLURGICAL AND MATERIALS TRANSACTIONS A-PHYSICAL METALLURGY AND MATERIALS SCIENCE, ISSN: 1073-5623, DOI: 10.1007/s11661-025-07752-1, pp.1-17, 2025

Abstract:
In this study, the AlCoCrFeNiTi0.2 high-entropy alloy (HEA) was plasma nitrided to investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties of high-entropy nitrides formed in the surface layer of the bulk sample. XRD measurements revealed a BCC → FCC crystal structure transformation, with the σ phase disappearing and hexagonal aluminum nitride emerging. Further experimental studies on the nitrided samples, including SEM, EDS, and EBSD, uncovered element segregation into multiple FCC phases with similar lattice constants, such as the NaCl-type (AlCrCoFeNiTi0.2)N high-entropy nitride. These observations align with theoretical analysis based on KKR-CPA calculations. Additionally, plasma nitriding induced high surface porosity; however, micropillar compression testing combined with nanoindentation revealed localized areas with significant hardness. A substantial reduction in the coefficient of friction was also observed. These findings not only provide deeper insights into the nitriding process of complex alloys, like dual-phase HEAs, but also hold promise for further exploration in the manufacturing of super-hard surfaces with high-entropy nitrides, enhancing mechanical properties for applications in harsh environments.

Jones A. P., Haley M. J., Meadows M. H., Gregory G. E., Hannan C. J., Simmons A. K., Bere L. D., Lewis D. G., Pedro O., Smith M. J., King A. T., Evans D. Gareth R., Paszek P., Brough D., Pathmanaban O. N., Couper K. N., Spatial mapping of immune cell environments in NF2-related schwannomatosis vestibular schwannoma, Nature Communications, ISSN: 2041-1723, DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57586-z, Vol.16, pp.2944-1-18, 2025

Abstract:
NF2-related Schwannomatosis (NF2 SWN) is a rare disease characterised by the growth of multiple nervous system neoplasms, including bilateral vestibular schwannoma (VS). VS tumours are characterised by extensive leucocyte infiltration. However, the immunological landscape in VS and the spatial determinants within the tumour microenvironment that shape the trajectory of disease are presently unknown. In this study, to elucidate the complex immunological networks across VS, we performed imaging mass cytometry (IMC) on clinically annotated VS samples from NF2 SWN patients. We reveal the heterogeneity in neoplastic cell, myeloid cell and T cell populations that co-exist within VS, and that distinct myeloid cell and Schwann cell populations reside within varied spatial contextures across characteristic Antoni A and B histomorphic niches. Interestingly, T-cell populations co-localise with tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) in Antoni A regions, seemingly limiting their ability to interact with tumorigenic Schwann cells. This spatial landscape is altered in Antoni B regions, where T-cell populations appear to interact with PD-L1+ Schwann cells. We also demonstrate that prior bevacizumab treatment (VEGF-A antagonist) preferentially reduces alternatively activated-like TAMs, whilst enhancing CD44 expression, in bevacizumab-treated tumours. Together, we describe niche-dependent modes of T-cell regulation in NF2 SWN VS, indicating the potential for microenvironment-altering therapies for VS.

Souza P., Borges-Araújo L., Christopher B., Rodrigo A M., Fabian G., Peter P., Liguo W., Hafez R., Borges-Araújo A., Cofas Vargas L., Luca M., Raúl M., Melo M., Sangwook W., Marrink S., Poma A., Sebastian T., GōMartini 3: From large conformational changes in proteins to environmental bias corrections, Nature Communications, ISSN: 2041-1723, DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58719-0, Vol.16, No.4051, pp.1-19, 2025

Abstract:
Coarse-grained modeling has become an important tool to supplement experimental measurements, allowing access to spatio-temporal scales beyond all-atom based approaches. The GōMartini model combines structure- and physics-based coarse-grained approaches, balancing computational efficiency and accurate representation of protein dynamics with the capabilities of studying proteins in different biological environments. This paper introduces an enhanced GōMartini model, which combines a virtual-site implementation of Gō models with Martini 3. The implementation has been extensively tested by the community since the release of the reparametrized version of Martini. This work demonstrates the capabilities of the model in diverse case studies, ranging from protein-membrane binding to protein-ligand interactions and AFM force profile calculations. The model is also versatile, as it can address recent inaccuracies reported in the Martini protein model. Lastly, the paper discusses the advantages, limitations, and future perspectives of the Martini 3 protein model and its combination with Gō models.

Keywords:
GōMartini 3, Martini 3, Coarse graining, Proteins, IDP, membranes, Molecular Dynamics, Nanomechanics

Hou J., Xu D., Jankowski Ł., Structural modal parameter identification with the Power-Exponential window function, MECHANICAL SYSTEMS AND SIGNAL PROCESSING, ISSN: 0888-3270, DOI: 10.1016/j.ymssp.2024.111771, Vol.222, pp.111771-1-111771-23, 2025

Abstract:
In view of the demand for accurate modal identification, and based on the characteristics of free vibration response, this paper introduces a new window function for Fourier Transform called the Power–Exponential window. The Power–Exponential window addresses the characteristics of free vibration response. It significantly enhances the accuracy of modal identification by improving the spectral properties of structural response. The proposed window function consists of exponential and power terms. This study focuses on the additional damping and frequency-domain differentiation introduced by the Power–Exponential window function. The exponential term weakens the boundary effect related to the time-domain truncation and suppresses the spectral leakage. Moreover, it can be interpreted in clear physical terms as providing additional damping to the signal. The power term in the window function corresponds to frequency domain differentiation, and it alleviates the spectral broadening that arises due to the additional damping. Furthermore, the analytical expression for the response spectrum confirms that the Power–Exponential window not only aligns the peak response frequency with the damped natural frequency but also establishes an explicit linear relationship between the actual structural damping ratio and the identification result from the half power bandwidth method. Both contribute to an improved accuracy and usability of certain frequency-domain modal identification methods. The influence of the Power–Exponential window parameters on modal parameter identification is analyzed, and the optimal selection principle and suggested parameter values are proposed. Finally, numerical simulations and an experimental frame model test are conducted to verify the accuracy and validity of modal parameter identification based on the Power–Exponential window.

Keywords:
Modal identification, Window function, Frequency domain, Spectrum leakage, Fourier Transform (FT)

Świercz A., Błachowski B. D., Olaszek P., Holnicki-Szulc J. K., Jankowski Ł., Computationally efficient multi-type sensor placement for large-scale engineering structures, MECHANICAL SYSTEMS AND SIGNAL PROCESSING, ISSN: 0888-3270, DOI: 10.1016/j.ymssp.2025.112615, Vol.230, pp.112615-1-112615-21, 2025

Abstract:
Performance of a structural health monitoring (SHM) system depends on the set of sensors distributed across the monitored structure. Optimal deployment of sensors on large-scale structures, such as tied-arch bridges, is a significant challenge. Condition assessment of a bridge is typically based on its displacement response under operational or diagnostic loads. However, direct displacement measurements require reference-based methods, which is problematic for bridges. Consequently, other sensor types that do not require reference points, such as accelerometers or inclinometers, are commonly used in practice. These sensors can indirectly provide displacement information but require sophisticated numerical integration and filtering techniques. Deploying a sensor network becomes even more challenging when it is heterogeneous and simultaneously utilizes sensors of various types. This paper proposes a sensor placement method for distributing such heterogeneous sensor networks. Two computationally efficient procedures are introduced, based on Kalman filtering and response estimation uncertainty. Their effectiveness is demonstrated using a realistic example of a tied-arch bridge located in Poland. One algorithm operates in a discrete greedy manner, while the other fuzzifies the sensor set to convert the originally discrete problem into a continuous one. Their numerical efficiency is related to the computationally inexpensive use of the cross-covariance matrix between the sensor responses and the target responses of interest. Compared to an existing multi-type sensor placement method, the proposed algorithms yield results of comparable quality with several times smaller computational cost.

Keywords:
Sensor networks, Optimal sensor placement, Kalman filter, Convex relaxation

Nwaji N., Fikadu B. B., Osial M., Warczak M., Moazzami Goudarzi Z., Gniadek M., Asgaran S., Lee J., Giersig M., Advanced Functional NiCo 2 S4 @CoMo2 S4 Heterojunction Couple as Electrode for Hydrogen Production via Energy-Saving Urea Oxidation, Small, ISSN: 1613-6810, DOI: 10.1002/smll.202410848, Vol.2410848, pp.1-13, 2025

Abstract:
The urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is characterized by a lower overpotential compared to the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) during electrolysis, which facilitates the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at the cathode. Charge
distribution, which can be modulated by the introduction of a heterostructure, plays a key role in enhancing the adsorption and cleavage of chemical groups within urea molecules. Herein, a facile all-room temperature synthesis of functional heterojunction NiCo2 S4 /CoMo 2 S4 grown on carbon cloth (CC) is presented, and the as-prepared electrode served as a catalyst for simultaneous hydrogen evolution and urea oxidation reaction. The Density
Functional Theory (DFT) study reveals spontaneous transfer of charge at the heterointerface of NiCo 2 S4 /CoMo 2 S4 , which triggers the formation of localized electrophilic/nucleophilic regions and facilitates the adsorption of electron donating/electron withdrawing group in urea molecules during the UOR. The NiCo2 S4 /CoMo 2 S4 // NiCo 2 S4 /CoMo 2 S4 electrode pair required only a cell voltage of 1.17 and 1.18 V to deliver a current density of 10 and 100 mA cm−2 respectively in urea electrolysis cell and display very good stability. Tests performed in real urine samples show similar catalytic performance to urea electrolytes, making the work one of the best transition
metal-based catalysts for UOR applications, promising both efficient hydrogen production and urea decomposition.

Liu S., Wu J., He S., Yuan X., Stupkiewicz S., Wang Y., Effect of substrate stiffness on interfacial Schallamach wave of flexible film/substrate bilayer structure: Cohesive contact insight, TRIBOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, ISSN: 0301-679X, DOI: 10.1016/j.triboint.2024.110358, Vol.202, pp.110358-1-14, 2025

Abstract:
As the critical feature of the stick-slip for soft materials, the interfacial Schallamach waves of flexible composite structures are essential for smart tactile sensors to realize sliding perception. Herein, the Schallamach waves of polydimethylsiloxane film/substrate bilayer structures with three substrate stiffnesses regulated by porosities are investigated by setting up in-situ sliding tests and establishing finite element models with mixed-mode cohesive contact. Inhomogeneity in microcontact stiffness disrupts the continuity and synchronization of the Schallamach waves, resulting in non-periodic fluctuations in the contact force. The buckling phenomenon of the film structure marks the transition from stick to slip. This buckling induces a shift at the crack front from normal compressive stress to tensile stress, leading to mixed-mode damage.

Keywords:
Stick-slip,Polydimethylsiloxane film/substrate bilayer structures,Schallamach wave,In-situ sliding test,Mixed-mode cohesive contact model

Liu S., Wu J., Teng F., He S., Yuan X., Stupkiewicz S., Wang Y., Effect of surface adhesion characteristics on stick-slip mechanism of flexible film/substrate bilayer structure: Multiscale insight, TRIBOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, ISSN: 0301-679X, DOI: 10.1016/j.triboint.2025.110520, Vol.204, pp.110520-1-16, 2025

Abstract:
The key to tactile sensors' sliding perception is the stick-slip modulation of the soft material through surface design. Herein, in-situ sliding tests were conducted on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film/substrate bilayer structures (PF/SBS) with three surface adhesion characteristics tailored by crosslinking degrees of PDMS film. Microscopic damage mechanisms during Schallamach wave propagation were analyzed using mixed-mode cohesive contact models. Intermolecular interaction mechanisms at microscopic crack tips were also explored using PDMS-Silica (SiO2) molecular models with varying PDMS crosslinking degrees. The Schallamach waves and tangential force strongly depended on the crosslinking degree of PDMS film. The varying effects of crosslinking degree on normal and tangential separation mechanisms lead to a transition in Schallamach wave damage from mixed mode to Mode II during propagation.

Keywords:
Stick-slip,Film/substrate bilayer structures,Cohesive contact model,Intermolecular interaction

Demchenko I., Syryanyy Y., Shokri A., Melikhov Y., Domagała J. Z., Minikayev R., Derkachova A., Munnik F., Kentsch U., Zając M., Reck A., Haufe N., Galazka Z., Local structure modification around Si atoms in Si-implanted monocrystalline β-Ga2O3 (100) under heated substrate conditions, ACTA MATERIALIA, ISSN: 1359-6454, DOI: 10.1016/j.actamat.2025.121036, Vol.292, pp.121036-1-11, 2025

Abstract:
Doping of β-Ga2O3 (100) with Si by ion implantation onto heated substrates is investigated. The study reveals complex ion beam-induced defect processes in β-Ga2O3, characterized by the formation of various defect types and their temperature-dependent transformation. By employing X-Ray Diffraction, Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry, Particle-Induced X-Ray Emission, X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure Spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, and Density Functional Theory analyses, we examine lattice deformation, identify the local environment of dopants, assess electronic structure modifications, and verify the presence of extended defects induced by ion implantation. Our findings highlight the predominant contribution of substitutional and interstitial Si ions incorporated into complexes that act as donors manifesting n-type conductivity, while some fraction of the defects form complexes that act as traps for charge carriers. Notably, no monoclinic phase transformations were observed during implantation despite substrate temperature variations from 300 to 800 °C.

Keywords:
β-Ga2O3, WBG, Implantation, XRD, RBS/PIXE/c, XANES, TEM, DFT, FMS

Zakrzewska A., Kosik-Kozioł A., Zargarian S., Zanoni M., Gualandi C., Lanzi M., Pierini F., Lemon Juice-Infused PVA Nanofibers for the Development of Sustainable Antioxidant and Antibacterial Electrospun Hydrogel Biomaterials, BIOMACROMOLECULES, ISSN: 1525-7797, DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c01466, Vol.26, No.1, pp.654-669, 2025

Abstract:
Cross-linking bonds adjacent polymer chains into a three-dimensional network. Cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) turns into a hydrogel, insoluble structure exhibiting outstanding sorption properties. As an electrospinnable polymer, PVA enables the creation of nanofibrous hydrogels resembling biological tissues, thus ideal for nature-inspired platforms. PVA properties are easily adjustable through additives and an appropriate cross-linking method. Drawing inspiration from environmentally safe approaches, this work developed a new “green” method of low-temperature PVA cross-linking. Nanofibers were electrospun from a precursor solution of PVA dissolved in fresh lemon juice, stabilized by heating at 60 °C for 7 days, and thoroughly characterized. The obtained nanoplatform demonstrated long-term stability and enhanced mechanical properties. Its biocompatibility was confirmed, and its antibacterial and health-promoting effects were attributed to lemon juice-rich in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. The developed system has future potential for use in the biomedical engineering field as a dressing accelerating wound healing.

Postek E. W., Sadowski T., Guhathakurta J., Steel Ball Impact on SiC/AlSi12 Interpenetrated Composite by Peridynamics, Materials, ISSN: 1996-1944, DOI: 10.3390/ma18020290, Vol.18, No.290, pp.1-25, 2025

Abstract:
Silicon carbide and an aluminum alloy (SiC/AlSi12) composite are obtained during the pressurized casting process of the aluminum alloy into the SiC foam. The foam acts as a high-stiffness skeleton that strengthens the aluminum alloy matrix. The goal of the paper is to describe the behavior of the material, considering its internal structure. The composite’s structure is obtained by using X-ray computing tomography. The thorough computer tomography analysis allows for the high-precision identification of the shape and distribution of the pores in the matrix. The computational model prepared in the framework of the peridynamics method takes into account the pores and their shape. The pores in the structure appeared in the fabrication process. The impact of a steel ball is studied employing the peridynamics method. The sample without any porosity and a porous one were considered during the analyses. It has been found that the porosity of the matrix influences the plastic strain development, but the damage parameter in the skeleton is not affected significantly. The damage advancement in the skeleton during the process is practically identical in both cases. The equivalent plastic strain field is much smoother in a non-porous matrix than in a porous one. The porous matrix has high equivalent
plastic strain concentrations, much higher than the non-porous matrix. The shape of the sample is affected by the porosity of the matrix. The sample with a porous matrix tends to fragment, and it shows a tendency towards spallation when in close contact to the surface with the base.

Keywords:
interpenetrated composite, impact, damage, perydynamics

Vafaei E., Hasani M., Salehi N., Sabbagh Mojaveryazdi F., Hasani S., Enhancement of Biopolymer Film Properties Using Spermidine, Zinc Oxide, and Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles: A Study of Physical, Thermal, and Mechanical Characteristics, Materials, ISSN: 1996-1944, DOI: 10.3390/ma18020225, Vol.18, No.2, pp.225-1-17, 2025

Abstract:
One of the main limitations of biopolymers compared to petroleum-based polymers is their weak mechanical and physical properties. Recent improvements focused on surmounting these constraints by integrating nanoparticles into biopolymer films to improve their efficacy. This study aimed to improve the properties of gelatin–chitosan-based biopolymer layers using zinc oxide (ZnO) and graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles combined with spermidine to enhance their mechanical, physical, and thermal properties. The results show that adding ZnO and GO nanoparticles increased the tensile strength of the layers from 9.203 MPa to 17.787 MPa in films containing graphene oxide and zinc oxide, although the elongation at break decreased. The incorporation of nanoparticles reduced the water vapor permeability from 0.164 to 0.149 (g.m−2.24 h−1). Moreover, the transparency of the layers ranged from 72.67% to 86.17%, decreasing with higher nanoparticle concentrations. The use of nanoparticles enhanced the light-blocking characteristics of the films, making them appropriate for the preservation of light-sensitive food items. The thermal properties improved with an increase in the melting temperature (Tm) up to 115.5 °C and enhanced the thermal stability in the nanoparticle-containing samples. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful integration of all components within the films. In general, the combination of gelatin and chitosan, along with ZnO, GO, and spermidine, significantly enhanced the properties of the layers, making them stronger and more suitable for biodegradable packaging applications.

Keywords:
nanocomposite,gelatin,chitosan,zinc oxide,graphene oxide

Łazarska M., Ranachowski Z., Musiał J., Tański T., Jiang Q., Identification of Phase Transformations in Alloy and Non-Alloy Steel During Austempering Using Acoustic Emission and Neural Network, Materials, ISSN: 1996-1944, DOI: 10.3390/ma18102198, Vol.18, No.2198, pp.1-16, 2025

Abstract:
This research was carried out for selected alloy (bearing) and non-alloy (tool) steel. The steels were subjected to austempering. The hardening temperature range was from 100 °C to 180 °C. The use of acoustic emission in connection with the artificial neural network (ANN) enabled the analysis and identification of phase changes occurring in steels during austempering. Classification of acoustic emission events was carried out with the help of their energy values and with the use of an artificial neural network. On this basis, it was observed that in the process of isothermal hardening of steel at the applied temperatures, complex transformations of austenite into martensite and bainite occur. In addition, it was found that the research methods used enabled the identification of signal components originating from the phase transformation causing the formation of thin-plate martensite midrib. The use of acoustic methods in the field of bainitic transformation creates the possibility of their application in the industry.

Keywords:
bainite, martensite, austempering, acoustic emission (AE), neural networks

Boka Fikadu B., Mahendra G., Nwaji N., Juyoung G., Gicha B., Hyojin K., Asgaran S., Hee-Joon C., Lee J., Defect Engineered Ru-CoMOF@MoS2 HeterointerfaceFacilitate Water Oxidation Process, Chemistry Europe, ISSN: 1864-564X, DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202402533, pp.1-12, 2025

Abstract:
Catalyst design plays a critical role in ensuring sustainable andeffective energy conversion. Electrocatalytic materials need tobe able to control active sites and introduce defects in bothacidic and alkaline electrolytes. Furthermore, producing efficientcatalysts with a distinct surface structure advances ourcomprehension of the mechanism. Here, a defect-engineeredheterointerface of ruthenium doped cobalt metal organic frame(Ru-CoMOF) core confined in MoS2 is reported. A tailored designapproach at room temperature was used to induce defects andform an electron transfer interface that enhanced the electro-catalytic performance. The Ru-CoMOF@MoS2 heterointerfaceobtains a geometrical current density of 10 mA-2 by providinghydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolutionreaction (OER) at small overpotentials of 240 and 289 mV,respectively. Density functional theory simulation shows thatthe Co-site maximizes the evolution of hydrogen intermediateenergy for adsorption and enhances HER, while the Ru-site, onthe other hand, is where OER happens. The heterointerfaceprovides a channel for electron transfer and promotes reactionsat the solid-liquid interface. The Ru-CoMOF@MoS2 modelexhibits improved OER and HER efficiency, indicating that itcould be a valuable material for the production of water-alkaline and acidic catalysts

Zargarian S., Suárez-García S., Saiz-Poseu J., Zuppiroli L., Lanzi M., Ruiz-Molina D., Pierini F., Light-Activated Superhydrophobicity of Sustainable Micro-Structured Spent Coffee Grounds-Based Interfaces via Fatty Acids Modulation, ChemSusChem, ISSN: 1864-5631, DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202402254, pp.e202402254-1-14, 2025

Abstract:
The global consumption of coffee results in the disposal of vast amounts of spent coffee grounds (SCG), posing significant environmental challenges. Herein, we address this issue by developing an innovative, eco-friendly method to achieve superhydrophobicity using SCG. Repurposing this abundant biowaste, we developed a sustainable approach that avoids the use of harsh chemicals and energy-intensive processes typically associated with conventional methods. Our procedure involves wet ball milling of SCG in ethanol to produce microparticles, followed by electrospraying to create a micro-structured interface. A mild annealing treatment at 90 °C successfully transformed the SCG interface from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic, reaching a contact angle of approximately 151° and a rolling-off angle of 8°. The resultant interface exhibited remarkable self-cleaning properties, effectively repelling various liquids. XPS analysis revealed that the migration of fatty acids to the surface during annealing played a crucial role in lowering surface energy, thereby driving the hydrophilic-to-superhydrophobic transition. Furthermore, we demonstrated that solar-induced heating can effectively activate the same superhydrophobic properties, providing a practical and energy-efficient alternative to traditional thermal treatments. This method illustrates the role of light-activated fatty acid modulation in achieving superhydrophobicity and highlights the potential of SCG biowaste as a valuable resource for sustainable material applications.

Macek W., Sitek R., Podulka P., Lesiuk G., Zhu S., Liu X., Kopeć M., Fractography of Haynes 282 alloy manufactured by DMLS after tensile and HCF, Journal of Constructional Steel Research, ISSN: 1873-5983, DOI: 10.1016/j.jcsr.2025.109623, Vol.232, No.109623, pp.1-12, 2025

Abstract:
In this paper, the fracture surface topography of additively manufactured Haynes 282 alloy subjected to tensile and high-cycle fatigue loading was investigated. Haynes 282 alloy bars were printed in three different directions relative to the base plate (0°, 45°, and 90°) via Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) under an argon protective atmosphere. The specimens were subjected to monotonic tensile loading and fatigue testing under load control using full tension and compression cyclic loading (R = −1) in the range of stress amplitude from ±550 MPa to ±800 MPa. The entire surface topography was evaluated by using a 3D non-contact confocal technique and post-failure specimens after a fatigue test performed at three stress amplitudes, ±650 MPa, ±700 MPa and ±750 MPa. Such an attempt was proposed to analyse the fatigue response of AM Haynes 282 in the region near its yield strength. It was found that the printing orientation and the stress amplitude have a strong impact on service life and fracture surface characteristics. Finally, a surface topography parameter involving the mass density of furrows, root-mean-square height, and fractal dimension was successfully combined with the stress amplitude to estimate the fatigue life. The findings offer a novel approach to fatigue life prediction based on post-failure surface analysis, providing valuable insights for industrial applications and forensic engineering.

Keywords:
Nickel alloys,Fatigue,Additive manufacturing,Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS),Fracture,Surface topography

Mahmoud Zummurd A., babak S., Asmael M., Kenevisi Mohammad S., Sahmani S.^♦, Sina K., Tien-Chien J., David H., Impact of process parameters on mechanical and microstructure properties of aluminum alloys and aluminum matrix composites processed by powder-based additive manufacturing, Journal of Manufacturing Processes, ISSN: 1526-6125, DOI: 1526-6125, Vol.146, pp.79-158, 2025

Keywords:
Additive manufacturing, Aluminum alloys, Reinforcements, Powder bed fusion, Direct energy deposition

Rabcuka J., Smethurst P. A., Dammert K., Saker J., Aran G., Walsh G. M., Tan J. C. G., Codinach M., McTaggart K., Marks D. C., Bakker S. J. L., McMahon A., Di Angelantonio E., Roberts D. J., Błoński S., Korczyk P.M., Shirakami A., Cardigan R., Swietach P., Assessing the kinetics of oxygen-unloading from red cells using FlowScore, a flow-cytometric proxy of the functional quality of blood, eBioMedicine, ISSN: 2352-3964, DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105498, Vol.111, pp.105498-105498, 2025

Abstract:
Background
Metrics evaluating the functional quality of red blood cells (RBCs) must consider their role in oxygen delivery. Whereas oxygen-carrying capacity is routinely reported using haemoglobin assays, the rate of oxygen exchange is not measured, yet also important for tissue oxygenation. Since oxygen-unloading depends on the diffusion pathlength inside RBCs, cell geometry offers a plausible surrogate.
Methods
We related the time-constant of oxygen-unloading (τ), measured using single-cell oxygen saturation imaging, with flow-cytometric variables recorded on a haematology analyser. Experiments compared freshly-drawn RBCs with stored RBCs, wherein metabolic run-down and spherical remodelling hinder oxygen unloading.
Findings
Multivariable regression related τ to a ratio of side- and forward-scatter, referred to herein as FlowScore. FlowScore was able to distinguish, with sensitivity and specificity >80%, freshly drawn blood from blood that underwent storage-related kinetic attrition in O2-handling. Moreover, FlowScore predicted τ restoration upon biochemical rejuvenation of stored blood. Since RBC geometry and metabolic state are related, variants of FlowScore estimated [ATP] and [2,3-diphosphoglycerate]. The veracity of FlowScore was confirmed by four blood-banking systems (Australia, Canada, England, Spain). Applying FlowScore to data from the COMPARE study revealed a positive association with the time-delay from sample collection to measurement, which was verified experimentally. The LifeLines dataset revealed age, sex, and smoking among factors affecting FlowScore.
Interpretation
We establish FlowScore as a widely-accessible and cost-effective surrogate of RBC oxygen-unloading kinetics. As a metric of a cellular process that is sensitive to storage and disease, we propose FlowScore as an RBC quality marker for blood-banking and haematology.

Keywords:
Haematology,Erythrocytes,Storage lesion,Assay,Oxygen transport,Transfusion

Garshasp Keyvan S., Dogus H., Berke E., Shefik A., Sahmani S.^♦, Davut S., Nima N., babak S., Preventing thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries with nano-porous structures: A critical review, Journal of Power Sources, ISSN: 0378-7753, DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2025.236793, Vol.641, pp.236793-1-236793-41, 2025

Keywords:
Thermal runaway, Battery safety, Lithium-ion batteries, Thermal safety, Nano-porous structures

Saleh R., Memarzadeh A., Dogus H., Sahmani S.^♦, Tien-Chien J., Tien-Chien J., A comprehensive review on atomic layer deposition on key components in fuel cells, Fuel, ISSN: 0016-2361, DOI: 10.1016/j.fuel.2025.135172, Vol.395, pp.135172-1-135172-31, 2025

Keywords:
Fuel cells, Atomic layer deposition, Electrodes, Electrolyte, Balance of Stack (BoS)

Darban H., Faghidian S., Flexural frequency analysis of damaged beams using mixture unified gradient elasticity theory, COMPOSITE STRUCTURES, ISSN: 0263-8223, DOI: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2025.119143, Vol.363, pp.119143-1-119143-17, 2025

Abstract:
The flexural vibration of miniaturized homogeneous isotropic beams with multiple cracks is investigated using the mixture unified gradient elasticity theory. The model captures both possible stiffening and softening size-dependence at small scales. The problem is addressed using the Bernoulli-Euler beam theory, with the domain partitioned into distinct sections at cracked cross-sections. Cracks are assumed to be non-propagating, sufficiently spaced to avoid interaction, and open during vibration. The elastic spring model is employed to capture the effect of cracks on the dynamic characteristics. The time-dependent variational functional is rigorously established to derive variationally consistent and extra non-standard boundary and continuity conditions. Natural frequencies are obtained by solving the eigenvalue problem resulting from the imposition of boundary and continuity conditions. The predictions demonstrate excellent agreement with experimental, molecular dynamics, and analytical data from the literature for both large- and small-scale beams. The model is applied to examine the effects of gradient characteristic parameters, crack length and location, and boundary conditions on the frequencies. The practical application of the model to the inverse problem, where the location and length of a crack are unknown a priori, is numerically analyzed. The results indicate that the size effect significantly influences the inverse problem solution.

Brachaczek A., Tokpatayeva R., Olek J., Jarząbek D.M., Piotrowski P., Jenczyk P., Jóźwiak-Niedźwiedzka D., Impact of formate based deicing agents on ASR products: Microstructural, chemical and mechanical characteristics, CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS, ISSN: 0950-0618, DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2025.140729, Vol.471, No.140729, pp.1-12, 2025

Abstract:
This study investigates the effects of formate-based deicing agents, specifically potassium formate (HCOOK) and sodium formate (HCOONa), on alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete. By adapting ASTM C1260 standards, mortar bars were subjected to deicing solutions of varying concentrations to evaluate their influence on mortar expansion and ASR product characteristics. Results revealed that high concentrations of formate solutions significantly accelerated ASR, inducing expansions comparable to or greater than those caused by sodium hydroxide, while sodium chloride showed minimal expansion effects. Microstructural and chemical analyses demonstrated that ASR gels formed in formate solutions were predominantly amorphous, with different chemical composition depending on the deicer type. Pore solution analysis indicated a strong correlation between alkali ion concentration and mortar expansion. Furthermore, mechanical testing of ASR products revealed that gels formed in potassium formate exhibited higher hardness and elastic modulus compared to those formed in sodium formate. These findings enhance understanding of the detrimental effects of formate-based deicing agents on ASR and provide a foundation for developing mitigation strategies to preserve concrete infrastructure.

Keywords:
Alkali-silica reaction,Concrete microstructure,Expansion,Nanoindentation,Deicing agents,Pore solution analysis

Fathalian M., Darban H., Postek E. W., Atomistic insights into tensile damage of functionally Graded Al-SiC composites, INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL SCIENCES, ISSN: 0020-7403, DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2025.110012, Vol.288, pp.110012-1-110012-16, 2025

Abstract:
The tensile behavior and damage mechanisms of functionally graded (FG) Al-SiC composites are systematically investigated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. A comprehensive set of large-scale MD simulations is conducted on FG composites composed of three layers reinforced with different volume fractions of randomly distributed three-dimensional SiC particles. This work introduces a novel approach by modeling the reinforcement ceramic as three-dimensional particles, thereby more accurately representing the FG composite microstructure. Predictions of the model for Young's moduli of composites align with experimental data from the literature. The yield and ultimate tensile strength are overestimated due to the high applied strain rates and idealized crystal structures used in the simulations, which lack common defects such as vacancies and dislocations. The model is utilized to study the influence of reinforcement particle shape, size, orientation, and distribution on the tensile and damage behavior of composites. The FG composites reinforced with cubic particles demonstrate lower yield and tensile strength than those with spherical particles, primarily due to the high-stress concentrations around the corners of the cubic reinforcements. Reducing the size of SiC particles enhances the elastic modulus, yield, and tensile strength of the FG composites. It is shown that the stiffness of the FG composites reinforced with rectangular prisms can be effectively tailored by changing the orientation of the reinforcements. When SiC rectangular prisms are aligned along the tensile direction, the resulting FG composites exhibit higher yield and tensile strength. This work offers fundamental atomistic insights that help design FG composites with better mechanical performance.

Pruchniewski M., Strojny-Cieślak B., Nakielski P., Zawadzka K., Urbańska K., Rybak D., Zakrzewska A., Grodzik M., Sawosz E., Electrospun poly-(L-lactide) scaffold enriched with GO-AuNPs nanocomposite stimulates skin tissue reconstruction via enhanced cell adhesion and controlled growth factors release, MATERIALS AND DESIGN, ISSN: 0264-1275, DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2025.113713, Vol.251, pp.113713-1-18, 2025

Abstract:
The disruption of homeostasis in the tissue microenvironment following skin injury necessitates the provision of a supportive niche for cells to facilitate the restoration of functional tissue. A meticulously engineered cell-scaffold biointerface is essential for eliciting the desired cellular responses that underpin therapeutic efficacy. To address this, we fabricated an electrospun poly-(L-lactide) (PLLA) cell scaffold enriched with graphene oxide (GO) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Comprehensive characterization assessed the scaffolds’ microstructural, elemental, thermal, and mechanical properties. In vitro investigations evaluated the biocompatibility, adhesive and regenerative capabilities of the scaffolds utilizing human keratinocytes (HEKa), fibroblasts (HFFF2), and reconstructed epidermis (EpiDerm™) models. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of the GO-Au composite substantially altered the nanotopography and mechanical properties of the PLLA fibers. Cells effectively colonized the PLLA + GO-Au scaffold while preserving their structural morphology. Furthermore, PLLA + GO-Au treatment resulted in increased epidermal thickness and reduced tissue porosity. The scaffold exerted a significant influence on actin cytoskeleton architecture, facilitating cell adhesion through the upregulation of integrins, E-cadherin, and β-catenin. Keratinocytes exhibited enhanced secretion of growth factors (AREG, bFGF, EGF, EGF R), while fibroblast secretion remained stable. These findings endorse the scaffold’s potential for regulating cellular fate and preventing hypertrophic tissue formation in skin tissue engineering.

Keywords:
Wound healing,Electrospun fibers,Graphene oxide,Gold nanoparticles,Proregenerative cell scaffold

Grigoryan N., Chudziński P., Exact correlation functions at finite temperatures in a Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid with an open end, Physical Review B, ISSN: 2469-9969, DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.111.155439, Vol.111, No.155439, pp.1-19, 2025

Abstract:
The paradigmatic state of a 1D collective metal, the Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid (TLL), offers us an exact
analytic solution for a strongly interacting quantum system not only for infinite systems at zero temperature
but also at finite temperature and with a boundary. These results are potentially of significant relevance for
technology, as they could lay the foundation for a many-body description of various nanostructures. For this
to happen, we need expressions for local (i.e., spatially resolved) correlations as a function of frequency. In
this paper, we find such expressions and study their outcome. Based on our analytic expressions, we are able to
identify two distinct cases of TLL, which we call the Coulomb metal and Hund metal, respectively. We argue that
these two cases span all the situations possible in nanotubes made out of p-block elements. From an applications viewpoint, it is crucial to capture the fact that the end of the 1D system can be coupled to the external environment and emit electrons into it. We discuss such coupling on two levels for both Coulomb and Hund metals: (i) in the zeroth-order approximation, the coupling modifies the 1D system’s boundary conditions; (ii) for stronger coupling, when the environment can self-consistently modify the 1D system, we introduce spatially dependent TLL parameters. In case (ii), we are able to capture the presence of plasmon-polariton particles, thus building a link between TLL and the field of nano-optics.

Zaszczyńska A., Marzena Z., Kołbuk-Konieczny D., Denis P., Gradys A., Sajkiewicz P., On the Structural and Biological Effects of Hydroxyapatite and Gold Nano-Scale Particles in Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride) Smart Scaffolds for Bone and Neural Tissue Engineering, Molecules, ISSN: 1420-3049, DOI: 10.3390/molecules30051041, Vol.30, No.5, pp.1041-1-32, 2025

Abstract:
Piezoelectric materials, due to their ability to generate an electric charge in response to mechanical deformation, are becoming increasingly attractive in the engineering of bone and neural tissues. This manuscript reports the effects of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite (nHA), introduction of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) via sonochemical coating, and collector rotation speed on the formation of electroactive phases and biological properties in electrospun nanofiber scaffolds consisting of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). FTIR, WAXS, DSC, and SEM results indicate that introduction of nHA increases the content of electroactive phases and fiber alignment. The collector rotational speed increases not only the fiber alignment but also the content of electroactive phases in PVDF and PVDF/nHA fibers. Increased fiber orientation and introduction of each of additives resulted in increased SFE and water uptake. In vitro tests conducted on MG-63 and hiPSC-NSC cells showed increased adhesion and cell proliferation. The results indicate that PVDF-based composites with nHA and AuNPs are promising candidates for the development of advanced scaffolds for bone and neural tissue engineering applications, combining electrical functionality and biological activity to support tissue regeneration.

Keywords:
scaffolds, tissue engineering, bone tissue engineering, smart medicine, biodegradable polymers, regenerative medicine, poly(vinylidene fluoride)

Nisar F., Rojek J., Nosewicz S., Kaszyca K., Chmielewski M., Coupled thermo-electric discrete element model for spark plasma sintering, POWDER TECHNOLOGY, ISSN: 0032-5910, DOI: 10.1016/j.powtec.2025.120957, Vol.458, No.120957, pp.1-23, 2025

Keywords:
Spark plasma sintering, Discrete element method, Thermo-electric coupling, Joule heating

Pawłowski P., Stańczak M., Broniszewska-Wojdat P., Blanc L., Frąś T., Rusinek A., Energy-absorption capacity of additively manufactured AlSi10Mg cellular structures subjected to a blast-induced dynamic compression–experimental and numerical study, INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF IMPACT ENGINEERING, ISSN: 0734-743X, DOI: 10.1016/j.ijimpeng.2024.105216, Vol.198, No.10, pp.105216-1-105216-17, 2025

Abstract:
The study investigates the role of the topology of the additively manufactured AlSi10Mg cellular structures in the example of 3D and 2D designs: honeycomb, auxetic, lattice and foam. The samples were subjected to quasistatic and blast-induced dynamic compression. As a result, a relation between the structural geometry and the deformation mode of the compressed structures has been developed, demonstrating its influence on the energy absorption characteristics. The deformation and fracture mechanisms were examined in detail using the finite element simulations in the LS-DYNA code based on the material characterisation over a broad range of strain rates and temperatures. The outcomes show an agreement between the experimental data and the computations. The obtained results prove that by selecting the appropriate topological features, the deformation of compressed structures can be enhanced to improve their energy-absorption capacity.

Keywords:
Additive manufacturing,AlSi10Mg,Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS),Cellular structures,Dynamic compression,Blast-energy absorption,Explosively-driven shock tube

Jóźwiak-Niedźwiedzka D., Rovnanik P., Dąbrowski M., Ośko J., Kuć M., Maciak M., Gamma radiation attenuation, mechanical properties and microstructure of barite-modified cement and geopolymer mortars, Nuclear Engineering and Technology, ISSN: 1738-5733, DOI: 10.1016/j.net.2024.10.057, Vol.57 (4), No.103295, pp.1-11, 2025

Abstract:
The present study contributes to the development of alternative materials for radiation shielding, focusing on environmental sustainability and material cost efficiency. The primary aim was to evaluate the compressive and flexural strength, mineral composition, microstructure, and gamma-ray attenuation properties of cement mortars and geopolymer mortars containing barite powder. Mortars based on ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and fly ash geopolymers with varying amounts of barite powder were assessed for their shielding properties at energy levels associated with the decay of 137Cs. From the results, key parameters such as the linear attenuation coefficient (μ), mass attenuation coefficient (μm), half-value layer (HVL), and tenth-value layer (TVL) were determined. The results showed that while cement-based composites exhibited superior gamma radiation attenuation compared to fly ash geopolymer mortars, the latter had higher mass attenuation efficiency, meaning less material density was required for the same level of shielding. Additionally, cement mortars had 23–25 % higher mechanical strength than geopolymer mortars. Importantly, the inclusion of barite powder improved the radiation shielding performance of both materials by 7–10 %, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing the protective properties of these mortars. This research highlights the potential of fly ash geopolymer mortars as viable, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional cement mortars in radiation shielding applications.

Keywords:
Cement mortar, Fly ash geopolymer mortar, Barite, Gamma ray attenuation, Microstructure

Olaszek P., Świercz A., Ireneusz W., Kołakowski P.D., Monitoring and Numerical Analyses of the Steel Railway Arch Bridge: A Case Study, Journal of Bridge Engineering, ISSN: 1084-0702, DOI: 10.1061/JBENF2.BEENG-6962, Vol.30, No.1, pp.05024007-1-05024007-16, 2025

Abstract:
The subject of research is a steel arch-tied bridge at a high-speed railway line in Poland. After the construction was completed, a resonance phenomenon was observed at the bridge, consisting of the occurrence of intense (visible to the unaided eye) undamped vibrations of some vertical hangers in the horizontal direction, transverse to the track axis. These vibrations occurred without the presence of a railway load on the bridge. Before the bridge was put into operation, an acceptance static and dynamic load test was performed, and then the bridge deck vibrations were monitored for a year. The research during dynamic loads testing included both quasi-static (10 km/h) and high-speed (200 km/h) testing train passages. The vertical displacement measurements were carried out in three cross sections of the span, and the acceleration of vibrations on girders and selected hangers was also measured. Next, an innovative system for determining displacements indirectly using inertial sensors (inclinometers and accelerometers) was used for bridge deck vibration monitoring. The primary aim of the research was to investigate the possibility of assessing the safe operation of the bridge using a monitoring system consisting of a limited number of inertial sensors. The second aim was to verify the feasibility of calibrating the numerical model based on the results of dynamic load testing. Numerical analyses of the behavior of the bridge during the passage of trains with speeds up to 200 km/h were carried out. The developed and calibrated numerical model provides additional information about the overall structural vibrations, facilitating the interpretation of outcomes of the monitoring system. No significant impact of hanger vibrations on the monitored displacements and accelerations of the bridge deck vibrations during the passage of trains was found.

Keywords:
Arch-tied railway bridge,Bridge monitoring,Load testing,Bridge vibration,Numerical model calibration

Kamiński J., Adamczyk-Cieślak B., Kopeć M., Kosiński A., Sitek R., Cover Picture: Materials and Corrosion. 3/2025: Effects of Reduction-Oxidation Cycles on the Structure, Heat and Corrosion Resistance of Haynes 282 Nickel Alloy Manufactured by using Powder Bed Fusion- Laser Beam Method, materials and corrosion, ISSN: 0947-5117, DOI: 10.1002/maco.202570031, pp.1-1, 2025

Keywords:
corrosion, DMLS, haynes 282, nickel superalloy, hydrogen , oxidation

Rezaee Hajidehi M., Sadowski P., Stupkiewicz S., Indentation-induced deformation twinning in magnesium: Phase-field modeling of microstructure evolution and size effects, Journal of Magnesium and Alloys, ISSN: 2213-9567, DOI: 10.1016/j.jma.2025.02.016, Vol.13, No.4, pp.1721-1742, 2025

Abstract:
Magnesium is distinguished by its highly anisotropic inelastic deformation involving a profuse activity of deformation twinning. Instrumented micro/nano-indentation technique has been widely applied to characterize the mechanical properties of magnesium, typically through the analysis of the indentation load–depth response, surface topography, and less commonly, the post-mortem microstructure within the bulk material. However, experimental limitations prevent the real-time observation of the evolving microstructure. To bridge this gap, we employ a recently-developed finite-strain model that couples the phase-field method and conventional crystal plasticity to simulate the evolution of the indentation-induced twin microstructure and its interaction with plastic slip in a magnesium single-crystal. Particular emphasis is placed on two aspects: orientation-dependent inelastic deformation and indentation size effects. Several outcomes of our 2D computational study are consistent with prior experimental observations. Chief among them is the intricate morphology of twin microstructure obtained at large spatial scales, which, to our knowledge, represents a level of detail that has not been captured in previous modeling studies. To further elucidate on size effects, we extend the model by incorporating gradient-enhanced crystal plasticity, and re-examine the notion of ‘smaller is stronger’. The corresponding results underscore the dominant influence of gradient plasticity over the interfacial energy of twin boundaries in governing the size-dependent mechanical response.

Keywords:
Magnesium alloys, Deformation twinning, Micro/nano-indentation, Microstructure evolution, Phase-field method, Crystal plasticity

Sahmani S.^♦, Timon R., Jeong-Hoon S., babak S., Asymmetric nonlinear instability of thermally induced microsize arches having dissimilar boundary conditions incorporating strain gradient tensors, Applied Mathematical Modelling, ISSN: 0307-904X, DOI: 10.1016/j.apm.2025.116187, Vol.146, pp.116187-1-116187-28, 2025

Keywords:
Microsystems, Curved beams, Strain gradient elasticity, Porous composites, Isogeometric numerical approach

Maździarz M., Suitability of Available Interatomic Potentials for Sn to Model Its 2D Allotropes, Journal of Computational Chemistry, ISSN: 0192-8651, DOI: 10.1002/jcc.70032, Vol.46, No.2, pp.e70032-1-e70032-12, 2025

Abstract:
The suitability of a range of interatomic potentials for elemental tin was evaluated in order to identify an appropriate potential for modeling the stanene (2D tin) allotropes. Structural and mechanical features of the flat (F), low-buckled (LB), high-buckled (HB), full dumbbell (FD), trigonal dumbbell (TD), honeycomb dumbbell (HD), and large honeycomb dumbbell (LHD) monolayer tin (stanene) phases, were gained by means of the density functional theory (DFT) and molecular statics (MS) calculations with ten different Tersoff, modified embedded atom method (MEAM), and machine-learning-based (ML-IAP) interatomic potentials. A systematic quantitative comparison and discussion of the results is reported.

Keywords:
2D materials, DFT, interatomic potentials

Olivos Ramirez G., Cofas Vargas L. F., Tobias M., Poma Bernaola A. M., Conformational and Stability Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Variants by Molecular Simulation, Pathogens, ISSN: 2076-0817, DOI: 10.3390/pathogens14030274, Vol.14, No.274, pp.1-19, 2025

Abstract:
We performed a comprehensive structural analysis of the conformational space of several spike (S) protein variants using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Specifically, we examined four well-known variants (Delta, BA.1, XBB.1.5, and JN.1) alongside the wild-type (WT) form of SARS-CoV-2. The conformational states of each variant were characterized by analyzing their distributions within a selected space of collective variables (CVs), such as inter-domain distances between the receptor-binding domain (RBD) and the N-terminal domain (NTD). Our primary focus was to identify conformational states relevant to potential structural transitions and to determine the set of native contacts (NCs) that stabilize these conformations. The results reveal that genetically more distant variants, such as XBB.1.5, BA.1, and JN.1, tend to adopt more compact conformational states compared to the WT. Additionally, these variants exhibit novel NC profiles, characterized by an increased number of specific contacts distributed among ionic, polar, and nonpolar residues. We further analyzed the impact of specific mutations, including T478K, N500Y, and Y504H. These mutations not only enhance interactions with the human host receptor but also alter inter-chain stability by introducing additional NCs compared to the WT. Consequently, these mutations may influence the accessibility of certain protein regions to neutralizing antibodies. Overall, these findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the structural and functional variations among S protein variants.

Keywords:
Molecular Dynamics, Conformational space, Native contact map, Probability states, Collective variables, Protein stability, SARS-CoV-2

Entezari E., Singh A., Mousavisogolitappeh H., Velazquez J., Szpunar J., A cost-effective model for synergistic effects of microstructure and crystallographic texture on hydrogen-induced crack growth and corrosion rates in pipeline steels, Materials Characterization, ISSN: 1044-5803, DOI: 10.1016/j.matchar.2025.114917, Vol.223, No.114917, pp.1-23, 2025

Abstract:
his study proposes a Cost-Effective model based on microstructure, crystallographic texture, and hydrogen (H) diffusion to evaluate H-damage in pipeline steels. H-crack growth and corrosion rates, measured using ultrasonic inspection and a Gamry electrochemical setup, were correlated with microstructure and texture. Results show that smaller ferrite grain size, lower density of co-incidence site lattice boundaries (CSLB), higher densities of geometrically necessary boundaries (GNB) and random high-angle grain boundaries (RHAGB), and higher overall stored energy (EAve) in texture fibers increase H-trap sites and reduce effective H-diffusivity, contributing to higher H-crack growth rates. Conversely, these same factors enhance corrosion resistance by improving passivation. Secondary phases have a detrimental effect on H-crack growth and corrosion resistance, varying with size, continuity, and volume fraction of phases. The proposed model, using hyperparameter tuning, quantifies the synergistic effects of microstructure, texture, and H-diffusion on H-damage and highlights the role of ferrite grain size in mitigating H-damage in pipeline steels. Finally, finite element (FE) analysis of grain structures provided supporting observations.

Keywords:
H-crack growth rate, Corrosion rate, Microstructure, Crystallographic texture, Cost- effective model, Finite element stress analysis

Markovskyi A., Rosiak M., Vitalii G., Fedorov A., Ciezko M., Szczepański Z., Yuriy Z., Kaczmarek M., Litniewski J., Pakuła M., Acoustic microscopy study on elasto-mechanical properties of Lu 3 Al 5 O 12 :Ce single crystalline films, CrystEngComm , ISSN: 1466-8033, DOI: 10.1039/D5CE00068H, pp.1-13, 2025

Abstract:
This article presents experimental, theoretical, and numerical studies of the propagation of guided ultrasonic waves in a layered epitaxial structure of garnet compounds. A microscopic model, which yields dispersion equations based on material and geometrical properties, is developed. Acoustic microscopy experiments on a YAG:Ce crystal substrate and an epitaxial structure containing LuAG:Ce single crystalline films, grown using the liquid phase epitaxy growth method onto a YAG:Ce crystal substrate, reveal distinct phase velocity behaviors. The YAG substrate exhibits consistent velocities, minimally influenced by frequency, while the epitaxial structure shows dispersion, indicating frequency-dependent phase velocities. Experimental results are compared with numerically calculated dispersion curves, showing high agreement in the low-frequency range and minor deviations at higher frequencies. An optimization procedure is developed and applied, starting with the YAG substrate and extending to the LuAG:Ce film/YAG:Ce crystal epitaxial structure. The procedure allows for the extraction of material properties, offering valuable insights into the mechanical characteristics of the all-solid-state LuAG:Ce film/YAG:Ce crystal structure. This research represents a significant advancement in understanding ultrasonic wave dynamics in layered structures, particularly unveiling previously unexplored elastic properties of LuAG:Ce single crystalline films as a well-known scintillation material.

Stupkiewicz S., Amini S., Rezaee Hajidehi M., Twin branching in shape memory alloys: A 1D model with energy dissipation effects, EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF MECHANICS A-SOLIDS, ISSN: 0997-7538, DOI: 10.1016/j.euromechsol.2025.105671, Vol.113, pp.105671-1-15, 2025

Abstract:
We develop a 1D model of twin branching in shape memory alloys. The free energy of the branched microstructure comprises the interfacial and elastic strain energy contributions, both expressed in terms of the average twin spacing treated as a continuous function of the position. The total free energy is then minimized, and the corresponding Euler–Lagrange equation is solved numerically using the finite element method. The model can be considered as a continuous counterpart of the recent discrete model of Seiner et al. (2020), and our results show a very good agreement with that model in the entire range of physically relevant parameters. Furthermore, our continuous setting facilitates incorporation of energy dissipation into the model. The effect of rate-independent dissipation on the evolution of the branched microstructure is thus studied. The results show that significant effects on the microstructure and energy of the system are expected only for relatively small domain sizes.

Keywords:
Microstructure evolution,Martensite,Twinning,Interfaces,Energy dissipation

Nabavian Kalat M., Ziai Y., Dziedzic K., Gradys A. D., Urbański L., Zaszczyńska A., Andrés Díaz L., Kowalewski Z. L., Experimental evaluation of build orientation effects on the microstructure, thermal, mechanical, and shape memory properties of SLA 3D-printed epoxy resin, EUROPEAN POLYMER JOURNAL, ISSN: 0014-3057, DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2025.113829, Vol.228, pp.113829-1-18, 2025

Abstract:
Additive manufacturing (AM) methods, popularly known as 3D printing technologies, particularly the pioneering laser stereolithography (SLA), have revolutionized the production of complex polymeric components. However, challenges such as anisotropy, resulting from the layer-by-layer construction method, can affect the thermomechanical properties and dimensional stability of 3D-printed objects. Although anisotropy in SLA 3D printing is often overlooked due to the high precision of this technique, its impact on the properties and structural performance of the 3D-printed prototype becomes more significant when printing small devices designed for precise micro-mechanisms. This experimental study investigates the impact of the chosen printing surface – a less explored factor – on the performance of SLA 4D-printed thermo-responsive shape memory epoxy (SMEp) specimens. Two identical dog-bone specimens were printed from two distinct surfaces: edge and flat surface, to examine how variations in surface area and quantity of layers influence the microstructure, thermal behavior, mechanical properties, and shape memory performance. The results of this experimental investigation reveal that specimens printed from the edge, with a higher number of layers and smaller surface area, exhibit superior interlayer bonding, tensile strength, dimensional stability, and shape recovery efficiency compared to those printed from the flat surface. Conversely, specimens with fewer, larger layers demonstrated greater elongation and thermal expansion but reduced structural integrity and shape recovery performance. These results highlight the importance of experimentally investigating how different build orientations affect the properties and performance of SLA 3D-printed materials, especially before designing and employing them in applications demanding high precision and reliability.

Keywords:
Additive manufacturing, Laser stereolithography, Shape memory polymers, Materials processing, Anisotropy, Printing orientation

Kopeć M., Gunputh U., Williams G., Wojcieck M., Kowalewski Z., Wood P., On the Cover: Fatigue Damage Evolution in SS316L Produced by Powder Bed Fusion in Different Orientations with Reused Powder Feedstock, EXPERIMENTAL MECHANICS, ISSN: 0014-4851, DOI: 10.1007/s11340-025-01179-w, pp.1-1, 2025

Abstract:
Background Metal Laser Powder Bed Fusion Melting (LPBF-M) is considered economically viable and environmentally
sustainable because of the possibility of reusing the residual powder feedstock leftover in the build chamber after a part
build is completed. There is however limited information on the fatigue damage development of LPBF-M samples made
from reused feedstock.
Objective In this paper, the stainless steel 316 L (SS316L) powder feedstock was examined and characterised after 25
reuses, following which the fatigue damage development of material samples made from the reused powder was assessed.
Methods The suitability of the powder to LPBF-M technology was evaluated by microstructural observations and measurements of Hall flow, apparent and tapped density as well as Carr’s Index and Hausner ratio. LPBF-M bar samples in three
build orientations (Z – vertical, XY – horizontal, ZX – 45° from the build plate) were built for fatigue testing. They were
then subjected to fatigue testing under load control using full tension and compression cyclic loading and stress asymmetry
coefficient equal to -1 in the range of stress amplitude from ± 300 MPa to ± 500 MPa.
Results Samples made from reused powder (25 times) in the LPBF-M process exhibited similar fatigue performance to fresh
unused powder although a lower ductility for vertical samples was observed during tensile testing. Printing in horizontal
(XY) and diagonal (ZX) directions, with reused powder, improved the service life of the SS316L alloy in comparison to
the vertical (Z).
Conclusions Over the 25 reuses of the powder feedstock there was no measurable difference in the flowability between the
fresh (Hall Flow: 21.4 s/50 g) and reused powder (Hall Flow: 20.6 s/50 g). This confirms a uniform and stable powder feeding
process during LPBF-M for both fresh and reused powder. The analysis of fatigue damage parameter, D, concluded cyclic
plasticity and ratcheting to be the main mechanism of damage.

Keywords:
SS316L ,Stainless steel,Fatigue,Additive manufacturing,Laser Powder Bed Fusion Melting (LPBF-M)

Pietrzyk-Thel P., Jain A., Osial M., Sobczak K., Michalska M., Spongy carbon from inedible food: A step towards a clean environment and renewable energy, Electrochimica Acta, ISSN: 0013-4686, DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2025.146129, Vol.525, No.146129, pp.1-13, 2025

Abstract:
The global challenges of access to clean water and energy continue to grow, prompting research into sustainable solutions. A promising approach involves the conversion of agricultural waste into high-porosity functional materials for both water purification and energy storage. This study explores the conversion of stale bread into spongy carbon materials, which were evaluated as adsorbents for the removal of cationic dyes and electrodes for supercapacitors. The physical and chemical properties of the material were characterized using standard techniques. In particular, activated carbon produced at 900 °C showed a balanced mixture of micropores and mesopores, with a high specific surface area of ∼1583 m² g-1, making it a low-cost effective adsorbent for the removal of crystal violet dye, showing an adsorption capacity of 753.9 mg g-1, optimal at 10 mg of adsorbent dose with only 10 min of contact time. It performed well in a wide pH range (2–12) and in saline solutions. Furthermore, the material demonstrated a single electrode specific capacitance of ∼155 F g-1, an energy density of 21.6 Wh kg-1, and a power density of 355.9 kW kg-1 in supercapacitor applications. It exhibited high reversibility of charge-storage, retaining ∼85 % of its capacitance after 15,000 cycles. These results highlight the potential of pyrolyzed agricultural waste as a versatile and sustainable material for environmental and energy applications.

Keywords:
Activated carbon, Crystal violet, Dye adsorption, Energy storage application, Supercapacitor

Zhi-Ting H., Lin J., Krajewski M., Poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) membranes filled with deep eutectic solvent as non-flammable and flexible quasi-solid state electrolytes for high-voltage supercapacitors, Electrochimica Acta, ISSN: 0013-4686, DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2025.146192, Vol.526, No.146192, pp.1-13, 2025

Keywords:
Deep eutectic solvent, Gel-like polymer electrolyte, High-voltage supercapacitor, Quasi-solid state electrolyte, Symmetric supercapacitor

Piotrzkowska-Wróblewska H. E., Bajkowski J. M., Dyniewicz B., Bajer C. I., Identification of a spatially distributed diffusion model for simulation of temporal cellular growth, JOURNAL OF BIOMECHANICS, ISSN: 0021-9290, DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2025.112581, Vol.182, pp.1-7, 2025

Abstract:
This study introduces a spatially distributed diffusion model based on a Navier–Stokes formulation with a pseudo-velocity field, providing a framework for modelling cellular growth dynamics within diseased tissues. Five coupled partial differential equations describe diseased cell development within a two-dimensional spatial domain over time. A pseudo-velocity field mimics biomarker concentration increasing over time and space, influencing tumour growth dynamics. An

Keywords:
Tumour growth, Cellular growth, Cancer, Navier–stokes, Diffusion, Finite element method

Zaszczyńska A., Gradys A. D., Kołbuk-Konieczny D., Zabielski K., Szewczyk P., Stachewicz U., Sajkiewicz P. Ł., Poly(L-lactide)/nano-hydroxyapatite piezoelectric scaffolds for tissue engineering, Micron, ISSN: 0968-4328, DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2024.103743, Vol.188, pp.103743-1-15, 2025

Abstract:
The development of bone tissue engineering, a field with significant potential, requires a biomaterial with high bioactivity. The aim of this manuscript was to fabricate a nanofibrous poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) scaffold containing nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) to investigate PLLA/nHA composites, particularly the effect of fiber arrangement and the addition of nHA on the piezoelectric phases and piezoelectricity of PLLA samples. In this study, we evaluated the effect of nHA particles on a PLLA-based electrospun scaffold with random and aligned fiber orientations. The addition of nHA increased the surface free energy of PLLA/nHA (42.9 mN/m) compared to PLLA (33.1 mN/m) in the case of aligned fibers. WAXS results indicated that at room temperature, all the fibers are in an amorphous state indicated by a lack of diffraction peaks and amorphous halo. DSC analysis showed that all samples located in the amorphous/disordered alpha' phase crystallize intensively at temperatures just above the Tg and recrystallize on further heating, achieving significantly higher crystallinity for pure PLLA than for doped nHA, 70 % vs 40 %, respectively. Additionally, PLLA/nHA fibers show a lower heat capacity for PLLA in the amorphous state, indicating that nHA reduces the molecular mobility of PLLA. Moreover, piezoelectric constant d33 was found to increase with the addition of nHA and for the aligned orientation of the fibers. In vitro tests confirmed that the addition of nHA and the aligned orientation of nanofibers increased osteoblast proliferation.

Keywords:
Scaffolds, Tissue engineering, Bone tissue engineering, Smart medicine, Biodegradable polymers, Regenerative medicine

Sitek R., Bochenek K., Maj P., Marczak M., Żaba K., Kopeć M., Kaczmarczyk G., Kamiński J., Hot-Pressing of Ti-Al-N Multiphase Composite: Microstructure and Properties, Applied Sciences, ISSN: 2076-3417, DOI: 10.3390/app15031341, Vol.15, No.1341, pp.1-15, 2025

Abstract:
This study focuses on the development and characterization of a bulk Ti-Al-N
multiphase composite enriched with BN addition and sintered through hot pressing. The
research aimed to create a material with optimized mechanical and corrosion-resistant
properties suitable for demanding industrial applications. The composite was synthesized using a powder metallurgy approach with a mixture of AlN, TiN, and BN powders, processed under a high temperature and pressure. Comprehensive analyses, including microstructural evaluation, hardness testing, X-ray tomography, and electrochemical corrosion assessments, were conducted. The results confirmed the formation of a multiphase microstructure consisting of TiN, Ti₂AlN and Ti₃AlN phases. The microstructure was uniform with minimal porosity, achieving a hardness within the range of 500–540 HV2. Electrochemical tests revealed the formation of a passive oxide layer that provided moderate corrosion resistance in chloride-rich environment. However, localized pitting corrosion was observed under extreme conditions. The study highlights the potential of a BN admixture to enhance mechanical and corrosion-resistant properties and suggests directions for further optimization in sintering processes and material formulations.

Keywords:
AlN-TiN(BN) composite,hot-pressing,μCT,corrosion resistance

Bernard T., Mikułowski G., Szara T., Dołasiński M., Jasiński T., Domino M., Aspect-related mechanical properties of the cortical bone in the third metacarpal bone of mares, Applied Sciences, ISSN: 2076-3417, DOI: 10.3390/app15031593, Vol.15, No.1593, pp.---, 2025

Abstract:
Complete fractures of the third metacarpal bone (MC III) diaphysis pose a significant
clinical challenge, prompting advanced veterinary medicine to utilize constitutive and
biomechanical modeling to better understand bone behavior. This study aims to compare
the elastic modulus of the MC III cortical bone, supported by measurements of cortical
bone thickness and relative density, across the dorsal, lateral, medial, and palmar aspects of
the MC III, as well as to evaluate the cortical bone’s response to compressive forces applied
in different directions. Given the bone structure can exhibit sex-related differences, MC III
bones were isolated from six equine cadaver limbs collected exclusively from mares and
imaged using computed tomography (CT) to measure thickness and density. Cortical bone
samples were collected from the four aspects of the MC III and subjected to mechanical
testing followed by the elastic modulus calculation. Bone thickness and elastic modulus
varied across the MC III aspects. Thinner cortical bone on the palmar aspect coincided with
a lower sample reaction force-based elastic modulus in the externo-internal direction and a
lower axial compression force elastic modulus in the proximo-distal direction. Regardless
of the MC III aspect, the cortical bone demonstrated greater resistance to compressive forces
when loaded in the vertical plane than in the horizontal plane. The returning of different
values in mechanical tests depending on the direction of loading may be attributed to
the anisotropic behavior of the cortical bone, which may implicate the increased risk of
complete fractures of the MC III diaphysis due to a kick from another horse or a fall, rather
than from training or competition-related overload.

Keywords:
bone thickness, mechanical test, copression, bending, elastic modulus, equine

Kačeniauskas A., Pacevič R., Stupak E., Rojek J., Chmielewski M., Grabias A., Nosewicz S., Discrete Element Simulations of Damage Evolution of NiAl-Based Material Reconstructed by Micro-CT Imaging, Applied Sciences, ISSN: 2076-3417, DOI: 10.3390/app15105260, Vol.15, No.10, pp.5260- , 2025

Abstract:
Sintered porous materials present challenges for any modeling approach applied to simulate their damage evolution because of their complex microstructure, which is crucial for the initialization and propagation of microcracks. This paper presents discrete element simulations of the damage evolution of a NiAl-based material reconstructed by micro-CT imaging. A novel geometry reconstruction procedure based on micro-CT images and the adapted advancing front algorithm fills the solid phase using well-connected irregular and highly dense sphere packing, which directly represents the microstructure of the porous material. Uniaxial compression experiments were performed to identify the behavior of the NiAl sample and validate the discrete element model. Discrete element simulations based on micro-CT imaging revealed a realistic representation of the damage evolution and stress–strain dependency. The stress and strain of the numerically obtained curve peak differed from the experimentally measured values by 0.1% and 4.2%, respectively. The analysis of damage evolution was performed according to the time variation rate of the broken bond count. Investigation of the stress–strain dependencies obtained by using different values of the compression strain rate showed that the performed simulations approached the quasi-static state and achieved the acceptable accuracy within the limits of the available computational resources. The proposed stress scaling technique allowed a seven times increase of the size of the time step, which reduced the computing time by seven times.

Keywords:
porous materials,NiAl,discrete element method,bonded particle model,micro-CT imaging,reconstruction of material microstructure

Dyniewicz B., Shillor M., Bajer C. I., Dynamic behavior of an extended Gao beam model including shear deformation, Nonlinear Analysis: Real World Applications, ISSN: 1468-1218, DOI: 10.1016/j.nonrwa.2025.104340, Vol.85, pp.1-14, 2025

Abstract:
This study develops a model of the dynamics of the extended 2D Gao beam and simulates it. Here, the static model studied by Dyniewicz, Shillor and Bajer (Meccanica, 2024), is modified by incorporating inertial terms to account for dynamic behavior. The beam model expands the 1D Gao beam, which can oscillate around a buckled position, and the Timoshenko beam, which factors in shear effects in the beam’s cross sections. The resulting model consists of two highly nonlinear wave equations, alongside specified initial and boundary conditions. A finite element method (FEM) algorithm is created and executed to analyze the system’s vibrations induced by a periodically oscillating longitudinal compressive force. The simulation results are discussed, highlighting the ways the initial conditions influence the solutions, which are graphically illustrated through phase portraits. From an engineering viewpoint, this thick Gao beam model is notable for its relative simplicity. Similarly to the Timoshenko beam model, it includes shear effects, yielding a wave-like equation of motion. Considerations of the shear are essential for accurately analyzing thicker beams, as traditional models that overlook them may fail to capture the true system behaviors. Consequently, this extended Gao model offers more realistic outcomes in dynamic scenarios.

Keywords:
Extended Gao beam, Dynamic oscillations, Vibrations about buckled state, Simulations

Niemczyk-Soczyńska B., Sajkiewicz P., Hydrogel-Based Systems as Smart Food Packaging: A Review, Polymers, ISSN: 2073-4360, DOI: 10.3390/polym17081005, Vol.17, No.8, pp.1005-1-30, 2025

Abstract:
In recent years, non-degradable petroleum-based polymer packaging has generated serious disposal, pollution, and ecological issues. The application of biodegradable food packaging for common purposes could overcome these problems. Bio-based hydrogel films are interesting materials as potential alternatives to non-biodegradable commercial food packaging due to biodegradability, biocompatibility, ease of processability, low cost of production, and the absorption ability of food exudates. The rising need to provide additional functionality for food packaging has led scientists to design approaches extending the shelf life of food products by incorporating antimicrobial and antioxidant agents and sensing the accurate moment of food spoilage. In this review, we thoroughly discuss recent hydrogel-based film applications such as active, intelligent packaging, as well as a combination of these approaches. We highlight their potential as food packaging but also indicate the drawbacks, especially poor barrier and mechanical properties, that need to be improved in the future. We emphasize discussions on the mechanical properties of currently studied hydrogels and compare them with current commercial food packaging. Finally, the future directions of these types of approaches are described.

Keywords:
hydrogels,bio-based polymers,active packaging,intelligent packaging,food packaging

Rosowska J., Kaszewski J., Krajewski M., Małolepszy A., Witkowski B. S., Wachnicki Ł., Lev-Ivan B., Sybilski P., Godlewski M., Godlewski M., Growth of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Microwave Hydrothermal Method — Search for Defect-Free Particles, Nanomaterials, ISSN: 2079-4991, DOI: 10.3390/nano15030230, Vol.15, No.230, pp.1-21, 2025

Keywords:
zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles, microwave hydrothermal method , microwave-assisted synthesis, near-band-edge (NBE) emission, deep-level emission (DLE), luminescent properties of ZnO, photoluminescence (PL), cathodoluminescence (CL), defect-related luminescence

Szczęsny G., Kopeć M., Kowalewski Z. L., Toxicity, Irritation, and Allergy of Metal Implants: Historical Perspective and Modern Solutions, Coatings, ISSN: 2079-6412, DOI: 10.3390/coatings15030361, Vol.15, No.361, pp.1-32, 2025

Abstract:
The widespread adoption of metal implants in orthopaedics and dentistry has revolutionized medical treatments, but concerns remain regarding their biocompatibility, toxicity, and immunogenicity. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review of traditional biomaterials used in orthopaedic surgery and traumatology, with a particular focus on their historical development and biological interactions. Research articles were gathered from PubMed andWeb of Science databases using keyword combinations such as “toxicity, irritation, allergy, biomaterials, corrosion, implants, orthopaedic surgery, biocompatible materials, steel, alloys, material properties, applications, implantology, and surface modification”. An initial pool of 400 articles was screened by independent reviewers based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in 160 relevant articles covering research from 1950 to 2025. This paper explores the electrochemical processes of metals like iron, titanium, aluminium, cobalt, molybdenum, nickel, and chromium post-implantation, which cause ion release and wear debris formation. These metal ions interact with biological molecules, triggering localized irritation, inflammatory responses, and immune-mediated hypersensitivity. Unlike existing reviews, this paper highlights how metal–protein interactions can form antigenic complexes, contributing to delayed hypersensitivity and complications such as peri-implant osteolysis and implant failure. While titanium is traditionally considered bioinert, emerging evidence suggests that under certain conditions, even inert metals can induce adverse biological effects. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the role of oxidative stress, illustrating how metal ion release and systemic toxicity contribute to long-term health risks. It also uncovers the underappreciated genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of metal ions on cellular metabolism, shedding light on potential long-term repercussions. By integrating a rigorous methodological approach with an in-depth exploration of metal-induced biological responses, this paper offers a more nuanced perspective on the complex interplay between metal implants and human biology, advancing the discourse on implant safety and material innovation.

Keywords:
orthopaedic implants, toxicity, metals, biomaterials

Ropón-Palacios G., Pérez-Silva J., Gervacio-Villarreal E., Sancho C., Olivos-Ramirez G., Chenet-Zuta M., Tapayuri-Rengifo K., Cárdenas-Cárdenas R., Navarro d., Sosa-Amay F., De l., Moussa N., Casillas-Muñoz F., Camps I., Structural basis of the tarocystatin inhibitory mechanism against papain, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, ISSN: 0141-8130, DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.142647, Vol.308, pp.142647-1-9, 2025

Abstract:
Plant pathogens pose a severe threat to global food security by compromising the availability, quality, and safety of crops for human and animal consumption. Given the urgent need for alternatives to chemical pesticides, natural inhibitors of phytopathogenic proteases represent promising biopesticides. Tarocystatin has been characterized in Colocasia esculenta as a defense protein against phytopathogenic nematodes and fungi. Despite its biotechnological potential, few studies describe its mechanical, structural, and energetic properties. In this study, we characterized the inhibitory mechanism of tarocystatin against papain using a computational biophysics approach. Through extensive molecular dynamics (MD) and steered molecular dynamics (SMD) simulations, we explored the dynamic, energetic, structural, and mechanical basis of tarocystatin and its specific binding to papain. Our results suggest that the stability of the complex is characterized by a lack of conformational rearrangements, showing invariability in its secondary structure across all MD replicas. Additionally, electrostatic analysis revealed a high complementarity of the tarocystatin-papain complex, which was later corroborated by the hydrogen-bond network established at the complex interface, explaining its strong inhibitory capacity. Moreover, we determined that the substrate-competitive inhibitory mechanism is due to the binding ability of conserved motifs in tarocystatin, which efficiently interact with the catalytic active site of papain. This was also confirmed through SMD, where we observed that the N-terminal region acts as a spring to prevent the dissociation of the complex under external pulling forces. Overall, our study is the first to provide a comprehensive exploration of the biophysical properties of the tarocystatin-papain complex, offering insights into the tarocystatin's inhibition mechanism. These results lay the foundation for future development of tarocystatin-based antifungal alternatives, as well as for exploring its inhibitory activity in other pathogens or enhancing its efficacy through molecular engineering.

Keywords:
Tarocystatin, Papain, Inhibition mechanism, Molecular dynamics, Computational biophysics

Haghighat Bayan Mohammad A., Kosik-Kozioł A., Krysiak Zuzanna J., Zakrzewska A., Lanzi M., Nakielski P., Pierini F., Gold Nanostar-Decorated Electrospun Nanofibers Enable On-Demand Drug Delivery, Macromolecular Rapid Communications, ISSN: 1022-1336, DOI: 10.1002/marc.202500033, pp.2500033-1-10, 2025

Abstract:
This study explores the development of a photo-responsive bicomponent electrospun platform and its drug delivery capabilities. This platform is composed of two polymers of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV). Then, the platform is decorated with plasmonic gold nanostars (Au NSs) that are capable of on-demand drug release. Using Rhodamine-B (RhB) as a model drug, the drug release behavior of the bi-polymer system is compared versus homopolymer fibers. The RhB is incorporated in the PHBV part of the platform, which provides a more sustained drug release, both in the absence and presence of near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. Under NIR exposure, thermal imaging reveals a notable increase in surface temperature, facilitating enhanced drug release. Furthermore, the platform demonstrates on-demand drug release upon multiple NIR irradiation cycles. This platform offers a promising approach for stimuli-responsive drug delivery, making it a strong candidate for on-demand therapy applications.

Orthey A., Dieguez P., Makuta O., Remigiusz A., High-dimensional monitoring and the emergence of realism via multiple observers, Physical Review A, ISSN: 2469-9926, DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevA.111.012220, Vol.111, No.012220, pp.1-10, 2025

Abstract:
Correlation is the basic mechanism of every measurement model, as one never accesses the measured system directly. Instead, correlations are created, codifying information about the measurable property into the environment. Here, we address the problem of the emergence of physical reality from the quantum world by introducing a model that interpolates between weak and strong nonselective measurements for qudits. By utilizing Heisenberg-Weyl operators, our model suggests that independently of the interaction intensity between the system and the environment, full information about the observable of interest can always be obtained by making the system interact with many environmental qudits, following a quantum Darwinism framework.

Kiełczyński P.M., Wieja K., Balcerzak A., New Torsional Surface Elastic Waves in Cylindrical Metamaterial Waveguides for Sensing Applications, SENSORS, ISSN: 1424-8220, DOI: 10.3390/ s25010143, Vol.25, pp.1-15, 2025

Abstract:
In this paper, we demonstrate that torsional surface elastic waves can propagate along the curved surface of a metamaterial elastic rod (cylinder) embedded in a conventional elastic medium. The crucial parameter of the metamaterial rod is its elastic compliance s441(ω), which varies as a function of frequency ω analogously to the dielectric function ε(ω) in Drude’s model of metals. As a consequence, the elastic compliance s441(ω) can take negative values s441(ω)< 0 as a function of frequency ω. Negative elastic compliance s441(ω) enables the emergence of new surface states, i.e., new types of surface elastic waves. In fact, the proposed torsional elastic surface waves can be considered as an elastic analog of Surface Plasmon Polariton (SPP) electromagnetic (optical) waves propagating along a metallic rod (cylinder) embedded in a dielectric medium. Consequently, we developed the corresponding analytical equations, for the dispersion relation and group velocity of the new torsional elastic surface wave. The newly discovered torsional elastic surface waves exhibit virtually all extraordinary properties of their electromagnetic SPP counterparts, such as strong subwavelength concentration of the wave energy in the vicinity of the cylindrical surface (r = a ) of the guiding rod, very low phase and group velocities, etc. Therefore, the new torsional elastic surface waves can be used in: (a) nearfield subwavelength acoustic imaging (super-resolution), (b) acoustic wave trapping (zero group and phase velocity), etc. Importantly, the newly discovered torsional elastic surface waves can form a basis for the development of a new generation of ultrasonic sensors (e.g., viscosity sensors), biosensors, and chemosensors with a very high mass sensitivity.

Keywords:
torsional elastic waves,elastic metamaterials ,negative elastic compliance ,dispersion curves ,phase velocity ,group velocity ,mass sensitivity ,viscosity sensors

Knap L., Graczykowski C., Holnicki-Szulc J. K., Vehicle Vibration Reduction Using Hydraulic Dampers with Piezoelectric Valves, SENSORS, ISSN: 1424-8220, DOI: 10.3390/s25041156, Vol.25, No.4, pp.1156-1-21, 2025

Abstract:
Ensuring adequate comfort and safety in vehicle motion is a subject of extensive research worldwide. Despite the implementation of new control algorithms, including those lever-aging AI, the application of effective semi-active vibration dampers remains crucial for achieving optimal suspension performance. This article presents experimental studies conducted on a vehicle equipped with semi-active suspension featuring custom-designed hydraulic dampers controlled by piezoelectric valves. These innovative dampers are characterized by extremely short response times, enabling real-time adaptation to varying driving conditions. A simple control algorithm designed to operate based on real-time signals from suspension sensors is introduced and evaluated. The experimental setup, in-cluding the measurement system used during testing, is described in detail. The presented results highlight the significant potential of this approach for improving driver comfort under specific driving conditions, even without detecting road roughness ahead of the ve-hicle.

Keywords:
semi-active suspension, piezoelectric valve, suspension sensors, ride comfort and safety

Bajkowski J. M., Bajer C. I., Dyniewicz B., Bajkowski J., Leonowicz M., Performance of a vibration damper using a new compressible magnetorheological fluid with microspheres, SMART MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES, ISSN: 0964-1726, DOI: 10.1088/1361-665X/ad9cd7, Vol.34, pp.1-12, 2025

Abstract:
A novel magnetorheological (MR) fluid was synthesised by incorporating compressible, nonmagnetic polyurethane microspheres and ferromagnetic iron particles into polyalphaolefin oil. This innovative composition reduces sedimentation, enhances compressibility beyond that of conventional MR fluids, and achieves comparable yield stress with a lower concentration of iron particles. The new MR fluid was evaluated in a prototype translational vibration damper under dynamic conditions across a range of excitation frequencies. The damper’s response with the compressible fluid differed significantly from that observed with non-compressible fluids. Upon activation, the MR fluid increased flow resistance and enhanced the damper’s elastic response, posing unique challenges for further optimisation. Experimental results demonstrate the potential of employing such compressible MR fluids in applications requiring controlled material characteristics.

Keywords:
smart material, magnetorheological (MR) fluid, compressible, microspheres, vibration, damper

Faraj R., Popławski B., Gabryel D., Mikułowski G., Wiszowaty R., On optimization of an adaptive pneumatic impact absorber – the innovative rescue cushion, BULLETIN OF THE POLISH ACADEMY OF SCIENCES: TECHNICAL SCIENCES, ISSN: 0239-7528, DOI: 10.24425/bpasts.2025.153436, Vol.73, No.3, pp.153436-1-12, 2025

Abstract:
The paper states a complex study on the adaptive rescue cushion and concerns a problem of efficient impact mitigation, which is present during evacuation or assurance of people conducted by fire brigades. In order to minimize negative effects of person’s fall from height an airbag system is applied. Unfortunately, until now only passive solutions have been used. As a result, loads acting on a landing person were not minimized, because passive systems are designed for predefined, extreme conditions. Since the authors proposed to introduce adaptation mechanisms into the rescue cushion, a number of issues arose. They include construction and control of release vents, taking into account the inaccuracies of estimated impact parameters, and optimization of the venting area in case the evacuated person lands outside the airbag’s
center. All these problems were addressed within this paper and described in detail. Discussion on the system adaptation and its optimization was preceded by experimental validation of a numerical model. The energy absorbing capabilities of widely used passive rescue cushions were significantly enhanced as a result of the conducted research.

Keywords:
adaptive airbag,Adaptive Impact Absorption,inflatable structure,pneumatic absorber,rescue cushion

Gruca M., Bukowicki M., Ekiel-Jeżewska M.L., Brinkman-medium resistance hampers periodic motions of sedimenting particles, ACTA MECHANICA, ISSN: 0001-5970, DOI: 10.1007/s00707-024-04146-z, Vol.236, pp.837-854, 2025

Abstract:
The dynamics of groups of non-touching particles settling under gravity in a crowded fluid medium are studied at the zero Reynolds number. It is assumed that the fluid velocity satisfies the Brinkman–Debye–Büche equations, and the particle dynamics are described in terms of the point-force model. The systems of particles at vertices of two or four horizontal regular polygons are considered that in the Stokes flow for a very long time do not destabilize, i.e., all the particles stay close to each other, performing periodic or quasiperiodic motions. It is known that such motions, as invariant manifolds, are essential for groups of particles at random initial positions to survive for a very long time and not destabilize. This work demonstrates that when the medium permeability is decreased, periodic motions cease to exist, and groups of particles split into smaller subgroups, moving away from each other. This mechanism seems to facilitate particle transport in a permeable medium.

Loris R., Antun J., Będkowski J., Jurica J., The affordable DIY Mandeye LiDAR system for surveying caves, and how to convert 3D clouds into traditional cave ground plans and extended profiles, International Journal of Speleology, ISSN: 0392-6672, DOI: 10.5038/1827-806X.53.3.2535, Vol.53, No.3, pp.ijs2535-1-ijs2535-14, 2025

Abstract:
The paper examines the potential use of low-cost LiDAR for cave surveying. Mobile mapping using LiDAR complements traditional speleological surveying using a polygonal traverse. These methods assist each other, with one serving as an independent control measurement for the other, ultimately resulting in a more accurate 3D model. The testing results show that achieving high accuracy and detailed cave representation is possible using open hardware and open-source software. Both spacious and well-indented cave sections and narrow passages barely passable by humans were successfully mapped. The surveying process is significantly faster than traditional cave mapping, as drawing cave sketches by hand is unnecessary, being the most time-consuming task on site. This paper also presents a procedure for automated ground plan generation and profile generation from 3D point clouds, further expediting and simplifying the work for speleologists using scanning systems. Also, it is confirmed that the results are reproducible and do not depend on the subjective interpretation of the cartographer, as is the case with traditional speleological drawings.

Keywords:
cave mapping, mobile laser scanning, open hardware, open-source software, cave profiles

Ramírez-Cortés Sara A., Durán-Vargas A., Rauda-Ceja Jesús A., Mendoza-Espinosa P., Cofas Vargas L.F., Cruz-Rangel A., Pérez-Carreón Julio I., García-Hernandez E., Targeting human prostaglandin reductase 1 with Licochalcone A: Insights from molecular dynamics and covalent docking studies, Biophysical Chemistry, ISSN: 0301-4622, DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2025.107410, Vol.320-321, pp.107410-1-15, 2025

Abstract:
Prostaglandin reductase 1 (PTGR1) is an NADPH-dependent enzyme critical to eicosanoid metabolism. Its elevated expression in malignant tumors often correlates with poor prognosis due to its role in protecting cells against reactive oxygen species. This study explores the inhibitory potential of licochalcone A, a flavonoid derived from Xinjiang licorice root, on human PTGR1. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we mapped the enzyme's conformational landscape, revealing a low-energy, rigid-body-like movement of the catalytic domain relative to the nucleotide-binding domain that governs PTGR1's transition between open and closed states. Simulations of NADPH-depleted dimer and NADPH-bound monomer highlighted the critical role of intersubunit interactions and coenzyme binding in defining PTGR1's conformational landscape, offering a deeper understanding of its functional adaptability as a holo-homodimer. Covalent docking, informed by prior chemoproteomic cross-linking data, revealed a highly favorable binding pose for licochalcone A at the NADPH-binding site. This pose aligned with a transient noncovalent binding pose inferred from solvent site-guided molecular docking, emphasizing the stereochemical complementarity of the coenzyme-binding site to licochalcone A. Sequence analysis across PTGR1 orthologs in vertebrates and exploration of 3D structures of human NADPH-binding proteins further underscore the potential of the coenzyme-binding site as a scaffold for developing PTGR1-specific inhibitors, positioning licochalcone A as a promising lead compound.

Keywords:
Leukotriene B4 dehydrogenase,NADPH-dependent enzyme,Molecular dynamics simulation,Covalent inhibition,Specific target for cancer therapy

Krysiak Z., Rybak D., Kurniawan T., Zakrzewska A., Pierini F., Light-Driven Structural Detachment and Controlled Release in Smart Antibacterial Multilayer Platforms, Macromolecular Materials and Engineering, ISSN: 1438-7492, DOI: 10.1002/mame.202400462, pp.2400462-1-9, 2025

Abstract:
Smart materials, especially light-responsive, have become a key research area due to their tunable properties. It is related to the ability to undergo physical or chemical changes in response to external stimuli. Among them, photothermal responsive materials have attracted great interest. This study focuses on the development of a multilayer system (MS) consisting of benzophenone-modified polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) ring and a thermo-responsive core made of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-N-isopropylomethacrylamide) (P(NIPAAm-co-NIPMAAm)), gelatin, and gelatin methacrylate (GelMA). The system utilizes the thermal sensitivity of P(NIPAAm-co-NIPMAAm) and the photothermal effect of gold nanorods (AuNRs) to achieve an on-demand controlled release mechanism within 6 min of near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. The mechanical properties investigated in the compression test show significant improvement in MS, reaching 60 times greater value than the material without a PDMS ring. In addition, NIR irradiation for 15 min activated the antimicrobial properties, eliminating 99.9% of E. Coli and 100% of S. Aureus, thus presenting pathogen eradication. This platform provides a versatile methodology for developing next-generation smart materials, advanced delivery mechanisms, and multifunctional nanostructured composites. This work highlights the potential of photosensitive materials to revolutionize the field of soft robotics, optics and actuators, and on-demand systems by providing precise control over release dynamics and improved material properties.

Pręgowska A., Gajda A., Lis A., Demchuk Oleg M., Warczak M., Osial M., The attitude of high school students towards choosing a career path and participation in workshops popularizing science – SPIONs synthesis case, Research in Science & Technological Education, ISSN: 0263-5143, DOI: 10.1080/02635143.2025.2491081, pp.1-25, 2025

Abstract:
Background: Popular science projects provide an opportunity for
students to explore scientific disciplines in a hands-on manner,
potentially influencing their future career choices, particularly in
science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Purpose: The study aims to explore the potential impact of participation in science popularization workshops on high school students’ perception of STEM fields and their interest in pursuing careers in science. It examines students’ attitudes through survey data, including their self-reported interest in STEM disciplines, career aspirations, and reflections on the role of hands-on experience in shaping their educational choices.
Sample: The study involved high school students who participated
in a series of experimental workshops focused on the synthesis of
superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles.
Design and methods: We analyze the relationship between popular
science projects carried out by high school students on the choice of
field of study and further professional path, i.e. their attitude towards
choosing a career path, and participation in workshops popularizing
science into account exact STEM. To achieve this goal, we designed
a series of experiments tailored to high school students.
Results: Students had the opportunity to study the 3D virtual representations of molecular geometry. Seventy-five percent of participants connected their professional path with the field of chemistry, and 35% declared interest in following an academic career.
Conclusion: These findings indicate that science popularization
workshops can significantly influence students’ perceptions of
STEM education and career paths. Engaging in laboratory activities,
collaborative problem-solving, and direct interactions with scientists
fostered a heightened interest in chemistry and related fields.
Based on the Social Cognitive Career Theory, self-efficacy and outcome expectations play a pivotal role in career choices. Our
results support this perspective, as students with positive workshop
experiences were more inclined to consider STEM studies.
Moreover, the hands-on approach bridged the gap between theoretical
learning and real-world scientific applications.

Keywords:
Science popularization,projects popularizing science,chemical education,chemical education,laboratory instructions

Nazir S., Singh P., Rawat N., Jain A., Michalska M., Yahya M., Yusuf S., Diantoro M., Polyether (polyethylene oxide) derived carbon electrode material and polymer electrolyte for supercapacitor and dye-sensitized solar cell, Ionics, ISSN: 0947-7047, DOI: 10.1007/s11581-024-06052-9, pp.1-11, 2025

Abstract:
This study investigates the development and performance analysis of a supercapacitor using activated carbon synthesized from polyethylene oxide (PEO) as the electrode material, and a poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF-HFP)-based polymer electrolyte, prepared using a solution-cast technique for dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) application. This paper deals with polyether-based electrochemical devices, where electrode material is developed by polyethylene oxide (PEO), while an electrolyte is prepared using PVdF-HFP. Detailed electrical and photoelectrochemical studies were carried out using various characterization tools, and the results are discussed in detail. Sandwich structure supercapacitors and DSSCs are developed using maximum conducting polymer electrolyte that has an ionic conductivity of (8.3 × 10−5) Scm−1, exhibiting a high specific capacitance of 395 Fg−1 and DSSC efficiency ranging from 1.6 to 3.5% under 1 sun condition. The findings underscore the capability of PEO-derived carbon and polymer electrolytes in improving the efficiency of energy storage and conversion systems.

Keywords:
Polyether, Activated carbon, Supercapacitor, Dye-sensitized solar cell

Ngoc Tien N., Tien Dat N., Ba Manh N., Thi Thanh Ngan N., Osial M., Pisarek M., Chernyayeva O., Vu Thi T., A simple one-pot approach to prepare composites based on bimetallic metal–organic frameworks M, Ni-BTC (M = Cu, Fe) and carbon nanotubes for electrochemical detection of bisphenol A, Journal of Nanoparticle Research, ISSN: 1388-0764, DOI: 10.1007/s11051-025-06287-1, Vol.27, No.87, pp.1-16, 2025

Keywords:
electrochemistry, sensor, bisphenol A, MOF, CNT

Grigoryan N., Chudziński P., Tomonaga–Luttinger Liquid Parameters in Multiwalled Nanotubes, PHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI B-BASIC SOLID STATE PHYSICS, ISSN: 0370-1972, DOI: 10.1002/pssb.202400524, Vol.2400524, pp.1-10, 2025

Abstract:
Tomonaga–Luttinger liquid (TLL) theory is a canonical formalism used to describe 1D metals, where the low-energy physics is determined by collective Bosonic excitations. Herein, a theoretical model to compute the parameters of Tomonaga–Luttinger liquid (TLL) in multiwalled nanotubes (MWNTs) is presented. MWNTs introduce additional complexity to the usual Fermionic chains due to interactions and hybridization between their multiple coaxial shells. A model in which conducting paths along the length of the MWNTs are randomly distributed among the shells is considered. Since the valley degree of freedom remains a good quantum number, the TLL description in addition to spin and charge contains also valley degree of freedom and hence four-mode description applies. The values of all four TLL parameters are obtained for this model. A surprising outcome is that the compressibility of the holon mode becomes a universal quantity, while the parameters of neutral modes will depend on the details of intershell coupling. Finally, experiments where predictions can be tested are proposed.

Kopeć M., Kukla D., Kowalewski Z., Assessment of aluminide coating integrity by using acoustic emission, JOURNAL OF THEORETICAL AND APPLIED MECHANICS, ISSN: 1429-2955, DOI: 10.15632/jtam-pl/203353 , pp.1-6, 2025

Abstract:
Coatings are essential for protecting high-temperature components in aerospace and power generation industries. This study evaluates the integrity of aluminide coatings on MAR-M247, a nickelbased superalloy, under uniaxial tensile loading using acoustic emission (AE). Aluminide coatings, deposited via chemical vapor deposition (CVD), provide oxidation and corrosion resistance but are prone to damage under operational stresses. AE monitoring, a nondestructive evaluation method, detects transient elastic waves associated with damage events such as crack initiation and delamination. By analyzing AE signal characteristics like amplitude and energy, this research identifies acoustic signatures indicative of coating degradation. The findings highlight AE’s potential for real-time damage assessment, enabling early detection and predictive maintenance strategies in high-temperature applications.

Keywords:
coatings,acoustic emission,nickel alloys,non destructive testing

Sahmani S.^♦, Kotrasova K., Atif Shahzad M., Valaskova V., Zareichian M., babak S., Study on nonlinear asymmetric thermomechanical stability of microsize FGM curved beams based on nonlocal couple stress curvature sensitive model, Results in Engineering, ISSN: 2590-1230, DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2025.104493, Vol.25, pp.104493-1-104493-22, 2025

Keywords:
Thermo-elasticity, Microscale structures, Meshfree technique, Functionally graded composites, Background decomposition method

Konwar S., Kumar S., Mohamad A., Jain A., Michalska M., Punetha V., Yahya M., Strzałkowski K., Dharmendra Pratap S., Diantoro M., Chowdhury F., Singh P., Ionic liquid (1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tricyanomethanide) incorporated corn starch polymer electrolyte for solar cell and supercapacitor application, Chemical Physics Impact, ISSN: 2667-0224, DOI: 10.1016/j.chphi.2024.100780, Vol.10, pp.1-7, 2025

Abstract:
Taking into account energy demand a new highly conducting ionic liquid (IL) c (EmImTCM) mixed corn starch (CS) biopolymer electrolyte is synthesized for dual electrochemical application electric double layer capacitor (EDLC) and the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) application. Electrical, structural, thermal, and optical studies are carried out in detail and presented in this communication. Maximum conducting IL-incorporated biopolymer electrolyte film has been sandwiched between electrodes to develop EDLC and DSSC. The sandwich-structured EDLC delivers a high specific capacitance of 250 F/gram while DSSC shows 1.44 % efficiency at one sun condition.

Keywords:
Corn starch, Biopolymer, XRD, TGA, EDLC, DSSC

Zargarian S., Rinoldi C., Ziai Y., Zakrzewska A., Fiorelli R., Gazińska M., Marinelli M., Majkowska M., Hottowy P., Mindur B., Czajkowski R., Kublik E., Nakielski P., Lanzi M., Kaczmarek L., Pierini F., Chronic Probing of Deep Brain Neuronal Activity Using Nanofibrous Smart Conducting Hydrogel-Based Brain–Machine Interface Probes, Small Science, ISSN: 2688-4046, DOI: 10.1002/smsc.202400463, pp.2400463-1-19, 2025

Abstract:
The mechanical mismatch between microelectrode of brain–machine interfaces (BMIs) and soft brain tissue during electrophysiological investigations leads to inflammation, glial scarring, and compromising performance. Herein, a nanostructured, stimuli-responsive, conductive, and semi-interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel-based coated BMIs probe is introduced. The system interface is composed of a cross-linkable poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-based copolymer and regioregular poly[3-(6-methoxyhexyl)thiophene] fabricated via electrospinning and integrated into a neural probe. The coating's nanofibrous architecture offers a rapid swelling response and faster shape recovery compared to bulk hydrogels. Moreover, the smart coating becomes more conductive at physiological temperatures, which improves signal transmission efficiency and enhances its stability during chronic use. Indeed, detecting acute neuronal deep brain signals in a mouse model demonstrates that the developed probe can record high-quality signals and action potentials, favorably modulating impedance and capacitance. Evaluation of in vivo neuronal activity and biocompatibility in chronic configuration shows the successful recording of deep brain signals and a lack of substantial inflammatory response in the long-term. The development of conducting fibrous hydrogel bio-interface demonstrates its potential to overcome the limitations of current neural probes, highlighting its promising properties as a candidate for long-term, high-quality detection of neuronal activities for deep brain applications such as BMIs.

Szostakowska-Rodzoś M., Chmielarczyk M., Weronika Z., Fabisiewicz A., Kurzyk A., Myśliwy I., Kozaryna Z., Postek E. W., Grzybowska E., Plasticity of Expression of Stem Cell and EMT Markers in Breast Cancer Cells in 2D and 3D Culture Depend on the Spatial Parameters of Cell Growth; Mathematical Modeling of Mechanical Stress in Cell Culture in Relation to ECM Stiffness, Bioengineering, ISSN: 2306-5354, DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering12020147, Vol.147, No.12, pp.1-22, 2025

Abstract:
The majority of the current cancer research is based on two-dimensional cell cultures and animal models. These methods have limitations, including different expressions of key factors involved in carcinogenesis and metastasis, depending on culture conditions. Addressing these differences is crucial in obtaining physiologically relevant models. In this manuscript we analyzed the plasticity of the expression of stem cell and epithelial/mesenchymal markers in breast cancer cells, depending on culture conditions. Significant differences in marker expression were observed in different growth models not
only between 2D and 3D conditions but also between two different 3D models. Differences observed in the levels of adherent junction protein E-cadherin in two different 3D models suggest that spatial parameters of cell growth and physical stress in the culture may affect
the expression of junction proteins. To provide an explanation of this phenomenon on the grounds of mechanobiology, these parameters were analyzed using a mathematical model of the 3D bioprinted cell culture. The finite element mechanical model generated in this study includes an extracellular matrix and a group of regularly placed cells. The single-cell model comprises an idealized cytoskeleton, cortex, cytoplasm, and nucleus. The analysis of the model revealed that the stress generated by external pressure is transferred between the cells, generating specific stress fields, depending on growth conditions. We have analyzed and compared stress fields in two different growth conditions, each corresponding to a different elasticity of extracellular matrix. We have demonstrated that soft matrix conditions produce more stress than a stiff matrix in the single cell as well as in cellular spheroids. The observed differences can explain the plasticity of E-cadherin expression in response to mechanical stress. These results should contribute to a better understanding of the differences between various growth models.

Keywords:
breast cancer, E-cadherin, mechanical stress, mathematical modeling, 3D bioprinting, complex systems, cell modeling, finite element method

Jamois A., Didier D., Zieliński T.G., Galland M., Acoustic absorption of 3D printed samples at normal incidence and as a duct liner, Acta Acustica, ISSN: 2681-4617, DOI: 10.1051/aacus/2024088, Vol.12, pp.9-1-18, 2025

Abstract:
Prediction of the acoustic performance of 3D printed materials is investigated at normal and grazing incidence. A direct numerical (microscopic) simulation that solves the full set of Navier-Stokes equations is used as a reference. It is compared with a macroscopic approach in which the material is represented by an equivalent fluid. The materials have a periodic microstructure, consisting either of a single network of spherical or cubic cavities connected by cylindrical channels or of a double-nested network. The samples are printed using the stereolithography technique and are tested using an impedance tube and a duct test bench. For single network geometries, the results of sound absorption at normal and grazing incidence predicted using the equivalent fluid approach are in good agreement with those obtained by the microscopic approach. Comparisons with impedance tube measurements confirm that both approaches can accurately predict the absorption coefficient of the samples. For the in-duct liner configuration, the transmission loss measurements and predictions show similar evolution with frequency change, despite the discrepancy in amplitude. For the double network geometry, the equivalent fluid approach cannot exactly reproduce the results obtained with the direct numerical simulation. Finally, while the predictions with the microscopic approach provide a good match with the impedance tube measurements, only a poor agreement is obtained using the duct testing bench.

Keywords:
Acoustic absorber,3D printing,Duct,Multiscale approach

Sabbagh Mojaveryazdi F., pH-Responsive Transdermal Release from Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Coated Liposomes and Transethosomes: Investigating the Role of Coating in Delayed Drug Delivery, ACS Applied Bio Materials, ISSN: 2576-6422, DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.5c00257, pp.A-K, 2025

Abstract:
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a promising therapeutic compound limited by instability and poor delivery control. This study introduces a novel approach by developing NMN-loaded liposomes and transethosomes coated with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) to achieve stable, pH-responsive transdermal delivery, significantly improving bioavailability for clinical applications. Unlike conventional uncoated systems, PVA coating adjusted zeta potentials toward less negative values, enhancing colloidal stability, with liposomes shifting from −19 ± 0.73 mV to −15.6 ± 0.40 mV and transethosomes from −22.3 ± 0.84 to −17.72 ± 0.60 mV, and increases entrapment efficiency (e.g., transethosomes from 68.8% to 71.2%) while maintaining particle uniformity (polydispersity index reduced, e.g., from 0.421 to 0.342). FTIR and differential scanning calorimetry analyses confirmed the structural integrity and thermal stability. Ex-vivo studies demonstrated that PVA-coated formulations uniquely provide delayed, pH-dependent NMN release, contrasting with the rapid release of uncoated transethosomes at physiological pH, with reduced diffusion at pH 5.5 for targeted delivery. This innovative use of PVA-coated nanocarriers offers a transformative platform for controlled drug delivery, addressing critical NMN administration challenges.transdermal delivery, nanocarriers, liposome, transethosome, entrapment efficiency, stability

Keywords:
transdermal delivery, nanocarriers, liposome, transethosome, entrapment efficiency, stability