Evangelia A. Pavlatou

D.G. Papageorgiou, A. Karantonis, E.A. Pavlatou, D. Manolakos

Engineering Failure Analysis 2025, 182, 110046

The heat treatment sequence selection is a mandatory step through the tooling design procedure. Its purpose is twofold‧ maximizing the lifespan of the tool as well as to function as preventive measure against failures. Molds, dies and cutting knives are constructed by tool steel grades which must cope productively with mechanical, thermal as well as to high friction stresses exerted to tooling provoked by its increased complexity and geometry (thin-walled casting molds, aluminium extrusion dies with a very high extrusion ratio, highly complicated coining and forging dies). In this context, a study was carried out on the possibility of improving the wear performance of the most widely used hot work tool steel AISI H13 by subzero treatment. The study includes measuring the wear rate on standardized wear test blocks. Four different heat treatment sequences were implemented including conventional and deep cryogenic treatments covering a hardness range of 45 to 59 HRC. In each case, the friction coefficient was monitored, the weight loss was measured, the wear rate was calculated and dominant wear mechanisms were identified via the worn tracks. As a result, it was found that cryogenically treated specimens in the hardness range of 45-48 HRC, can increase wear resistance by 9% related to specimen conventionally treated to the same hardness. Moreover, specimen which was cryogenically hardened to 48 HRC acquired the same wear rate compared to another which was conventionally hardened to 51 HRC. Based on the findings, the risk of cracking in applications like hot forging can be reduced if deep cryogenic hardening of the tool is implemented ensuring the same wear resistance. Similarly, an opportunity to increase the lifespan of an aluminium casting die by further increasing hardness through cryogenic treatment limiting heat checking can be realized.

doi: 10.1016/j.engfailanal.2025.110046

P. Bika, N. Ioannidis, P. Tsipas, S. Papagiannis, M.-A. Gatou, E.A. Pavlatou, A.G. Karydas, Th. Stergiopoulos, P. Dallas

ACS Omega 2025, 10 (21), 21755-21766

Commercial melamine sponges were modified with a functional covalent organic framework (COF), and they were evaluated as adsorbents of divalent copper cations from aqueous solutions. A phosphazene unit successfully covered the surface of the melamine sponge, and the organic framework was subsequently formed through the nucleophilic substitution with 4,4′ bipyridine. The covalent organic framework functionalized on the melamine sponge can detect and effectively adsorb copper compounds in aqueous solutions. Its selectivity toward the adsorption of copper was demonstrated through the presence of different metal salts. Four competitive metal cations, i.e., copper, nickel, iron, and calcium, were selected to confirm the preferential binding of copper on the COF-functionalized sponge. The outcome was determined through the studies of X-Ray Fluorescence elemental analysis, X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance experiments. XRF reported a copper sorption capacity of 293 μg cm–2, which is nearly nine times higher than the performance of the pristine sponge. Q-band EPR measurements demonstrated the presence of different coordination sites with different substituents for copper on the modified sponges, when the adsorption took place in an aqueous solution containing exclusively copper cations, while only one coordination, the favorable trigonal bipyramidal geometry, was obtained in the presence of additional metals. 

doi: 10.1021/acsomega.5c01393

V. Karali, P.-E. Goula, G. Patroklou, E.-M. Saitani, G.E. Baltatzis, M.-A. Gatou, L.C. Kontaxis, E.A. Pavlatou, S.P. Zaoutsos, I. Trougakos, G. Valsami, N. Pippa, S. Pispas

Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects 2025, 721, 137199

The aim of this study is to develop hydrogel beads with the addition of cyclodextrins into a sodium alginate matrix and examine their swelling properties in different pH conditions. To achieve this, Methyl-β-Cyclodextrin (M-β-CD) and Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) were mixed with sodium alginate solution to form hydrogel beads. The formation of these beads was achieved at two different dropping distances (15 cm and 25 cm), and their swelling behavior was evaluated in two pH environments: SGF (simulated gastric fluid, pH 1.2) and SIF (simulated intestinal fluid, pH 6.8). The thermotropic behavior of the prepared alginate-based beads was analyzed using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to evaluate the impact of the preparation method and the presence of different types of cyclodextrins (CDs) on the beads' morphological characteristics. Results indicated that the addition of CDs had a substantial impact on the beads’ swelling behavior and morphology, with HP-β-CD beads demonstrating the highest disintegration rate in SIF, mostly due to greater hydrophilicity and matrix interactions. The beads with CDs that were prepared at higher dropping distance exhibited increased porosity, enhancing water absorption. This study highlights the impact of CDs’ coexistence on the pH-responsiveness of alginate-based hydrogels, underscoring their potential as delivery platforms for controlled drug release systems.

doi: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2025.137199

I.-A. Vagena, Ch. Malapani, M.-A. Gatou, N. Lagopati, E.A. Pavlatou

Applied Sciences 2025, 15 (6), 3189

The Enhanced Permeability and Retention (EPR) effect is a key mechanism for passive tumor targeting, which involves the selective accumulation of therapeutic nanoparticles in tumors due to their unique vascular characteristics. While previous reviews have explored this phenomenon, the present review offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach, highlighting recent advancements in strategies to enhance the EPR effect, as well as novel insights into the role of tumor microenvironment heterogeneity and the multifaceted approaches to overcome EPR-related challenges. This review provides a detailed analysis of the latest developments in nanocarriers’ design, including size, shape, and surface modifications, as well as cutting-edge multi-stage drug delivery systems. Furthermore, the integration of physical, pharmacological, and combinatory therapies to optimize the EPR effect is also discussed, aiming to improve the clinical translation of nanomedicines. Unlike other reviews, this work emphasizes the dynamic interaction between the tumor microenvironment and the vascular network, which remains underexplored in the current literature. In addition, specific clinical trials’ outcomes are highlighted and future directions to address existing limitations are proposed, offering a clearer roadmap regarding clinical applications in cancer therapy.

doi: 10.3390/app15063189 

I. Pitterou, F. Kalogeropoulou, A. Tzani, K. Tsiantas, M.-A. Gatou, E.A. Pavlatou, A. Batrinou, Ch. Fountzoula, A. Kriebardis, P. Zoumpoulakis, A. Detsi

Molecules 2024, 29 (22), 5318

A hybrid alginate hydrogel–chitosan nanoparticle system suitable for biomedical applications was prepared. Chitosan (CS) was used as a matrix for the encapsulation of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil (LEO) and Mentha (Mentha arvensis) essential oil (MEO). An aqueous solution of an acidic Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent (NADES), namely choline chloride/ascorbic acid in a 2:1 molar ratio, was used to achieve the acidic environment for the dissolution of chitosan and also played the role of the ionic gelator for the preparation of the chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs). The hydrodynamic diameter of the CS-MEO NPs was 130.7 nm, and the size of the CS-LEO NPs was 143.4 nm (as determined using Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis). The CS-NPs were incorporated into alginate hydrogels crosslinked with CaCl2. The hydrogels showed significant water retention capacity (>80%) even after the swollen sample was kept in the aqueous HCl solution (pH 1.2) for 4 h, indicating a good stability of the network. The hydrogels were tested (a) for their ability to absorb dietary lipids and (b) for their antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative foodborne pathogens. The antimicrobial activity of the hybrid hydrogels was comparable to that of the widely used food preservative sodium benzoate 5% w/v.

M.-A. Gatou, E. Skylla, P. Dourou, N. Pippa, M. Gazouli, N. Lagopati, E.A. Pavlatou

Crystals 2024, 14 (3), 215

In recent times, there has been considerable interest among researchers in magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles, due to their excellent biocompatibility, stability, and diverse biomedical uses, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties, as well as tissue engineering, bioimaging, and drug delivery applications. Consequently, the escalating utilization of magnesium oxide nanoparticles in medical contexts necessitates the in-depth exploration of these nanoparticles. Notably, existing literature lacks a comprehensive review of magnesium oxide nanoparticles’ synthesis methods, detailed biomedical applications with mechanisms, and toxicity assessments. Thus, this review aims to bridge this gap by furnishing a comprehensive insight into various synthetic approaches for the development of MgO nanoparticles. Additionally, it elucidates their noteworthy biomedical applications as well as their potential mechanisms of action, alongside summarizing their toxicity profiles. This article also highlights challenges and future prospects for further exploring MgO nanoparticles in the biomedical field. Existing literature indicates that synthesized magnesium oxide nanoparticles demonstrate substantial biocompatibility and display significant antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Consequently, this review intends to enhance readers’ comprehension regarding recent advancements in synthesizing MgO nanoparticles through diverse approaches and their promising applications in biomedicine.

doi: 10.3390/cryst14030215

I.-A. Vagena, M.-A. Gatou, G. Theocharous, P. Pantelis, M. Gazouli, N. Pippa, V.G. Gorgoulis, E.A. Pavlatou, N. Lagopati

Nanomaterials 2024, 14 (5), 397

The wide array of structures and characteristics found in ZnO-based nanostructures offers them a versatile range of uses. Over the past decade, significant attention has been drawn to the possible applications of these materials in the biomedical field, owing to their distinctive electronic, optical, catalytic, and antimicrobial attributes, alongside their exceptional biocompatibility and surface chemistry. With environmental degradation and an aging population contributing to escalating healthcare needs and costs, particularly in developing nations, there’s a growing demand for more effective and affordable biomedical devices with innovative functionalities. This review delves into particular essential facets of different synthetic approaches (chemical and green) that contribute to the production of effective multifunctional nano-ZnO particles for biomedical applications. Outlining the conjugation of ZnO nanoparticles highlights the enhancement of biomedical capacity while lowering toxicity. Additionally, recent progress in the study of ZnO-based nano-biomaterials tailored for biomedical purposes is explored, including biosensing, bioimaging, tissue regeneration, drug delivery, as well as vaccines and immunotherapy. The final section focuses on nano-ZnO particles’ toxicity mechanism with special emphasis to their neurotoxic potential, as well as the primary toxicity pathways, providing an overall review of the up-to-date development and future perspectives of nano-ZnO particles in the biomedicine field.

doi: 10.3390/nano14050397

A.G. Mitsopoulou, E.A. Pavlatou

Education Sciences 2024, 14 (2), 183

The present study’s objective constitutes the examination of the prognostic factors that influence the inclination of students in secondary school towards pursuing higher education. To achieve this goal, an existing questionnaire was utilized and appropriately altered to align with the Greek educational system. The survey involved the participation of 301 secondary school students from Piraeus, which comprises one of Greece’s major cities. The outcomes of the research yield substantial endorsement for the principles outlined in the social cognitive career theory. Specifically, the study highlights the significant role of family background, encompassing the educational levels of the parents, the students’ perceptions of the family’s financial situation, and the financial support provided by the family during the students’ academic journey, in shaping the students’ intent towards pursuing higher education. Moreover, the presence of a secure attachment bond between students and their parents suggests a favorable inclination towards higher education. Conversely, students deriving from low-income families are prone to exhibit hesitancy in pursuing higher education. The acquired data reveal a constructive relationship among outcome expectations, social support, as well as the process of students’ interest in developing a desire for higher education. Conversely, factors such as gender and age, as well as the presence of siblings studying in higher education, appear to have little influence in this regard.

doi: 10.3390/educsci14020183

M.-A. Gatou, A. Syrrakou, N. Lagopati, E.A. Pavlatou

Reactions 2024, 5 (1), 135-194

Contemporary technological and industrial advancements have led to increased reliance on chemicals for product innovation, leading to heightened contamination of water sources by traditional pollutants (organic dyes, heavy metals) and disease-causing microorganisms. Wastewater treatment processes now reveal “emerging pollutants”, including pharmaceuticals, endocrine disruptors, and agricultural chemicals. While some are benign, certain emerging pollutants can harm diverse organisms. Researchers seek cost-effective water purification methods that completely degrade pollutants without generating harmful by-products. Semiconductor-based photocatalytic degradation, particularly using titanium dioxide (TiO₂), is popular for addressing water pollution. This study focuses on recent applications of TiO₂ nanostructures in photocatalysis for eliminating various water pollutants. Structural modifications, like doping and nanocomposite formation, enhance photocatalyst performance. The study emphasizes photocatalytic elimination mechanisms and comprehensively discusses factors impacting both the mechanism and performance of nano-TiO₂-based photocatalysts. Characteristics of TiO₂, such as crystal structure and energy band-gap, along with its photocatalytic activity mechanism, are presented. The review covers the advantages and limitations of different TiO₂ nanostructure production approaches and addresses potential toxicity to human health and the environment. In summary, this review provides a holistic perspective on applying nano-TiO₂ materials to mitigate water pollution.

doi: 10.3390/reactions5010007

Materials 2024, 17 (2), 392

Sn–Ni alloy matrix coatings co-deposited with TiO₂ nanoparticles (Evonik P25) were produced utilizing direct (DC) and pulse electrodeposition (PC) from a tin–nickel chloride-fluoride electrolyte with a loading of TiO₂ nanoparticles equal to 20 g/L. The structural and morphological characteristics of the resultant composite coatings were correlated with the compositional modifications that occurred within the alloy matrix and expressed via a) TiO₂ co-deposition rate and b) composition of the matrix; this was due to the application of different current types (DC or PC electrodeposition), and different current density values. The results demonstrated that under DC electrodeposition, the current density exhibited a more significant impact on the composition of the alloy matrix than on the incorporation rate of the TiO₂ nanoparticles. Additionally, PC electrodeposition favored the incorporation rate of TiO₂ nanoparticles only when applying a low peak current density (J_p = 1 Adm⁻²). All of the composite coatings exhibited the characteristic cauliflower-like structure, and were characterized as nano-crystalline. The composites’ surface roughness demonstrated a significant influence from the TiO₂ incorporation rate. However, in terms of microhardness, higher co-deposition rates of embedded TiO₂ nanoparticles within the alloy matrix were associated with decreased microhardness values. The best wear performance was achieved for the composite produced utilizing DC electrodeposition at J = 1 Adm⁻², which also demonstrated the best photocatalytic behavior under UV irradiation. The corrosion study of the composite coatings revealed that they exhibit passivation, even at elevated anodic potentials.

doi: 10.3390/ma17020392

Ch. Kaliampakou, N. Lagopati, E.A. Pavlatou, C.A. Charitidis

Gels 2023, 9, 857

The generation of 3D structures comprises three interlinked phases: material development, the printing process, and post-printing treatment. Numerous factors control all three phases, making the optimization of the entire process a challenging task. Until now, the state of the art has mainly focused on optimizing material processability and calibration of the printing process. However, after the successful Direct Ink Writing (DIW) of a hydrogel scaffold, the post-printing stage holds equal importance, as this allows for the treatment of the structure to ensure the preservation of its structural integrity for a duration that is sufficient to enable successful cell attachment and proliferation before undergoing degradation. Despite this stage’s pivotal role, there is a lack of extensive literature covering its optimization. By studying the crosslinking factors and leveling the post-treatment settings of alginate–gelatin hydrogel, this study proposes a method to enhance scaffolds’ degradation without compromising the targeted swelling behavior. It introduces an experimental design implementing the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) Design of Experiments (DoE), which elucidated the key parameters influencing scaffold degradation and swelling, and established an alginate ratio of 8% and being immersed for 15 min in 0.248 M CaCl₂ as the optimal level configuration that generates a solution of 0.964 desirability, reaching a degradation time of 19.654 days and the swelling ratio of 50.00%.

doi: 10.3390/gels9110857

M.-A. Gatou, K. Kontoliou, E. Volla, K. Karachalios, G. Raptopoulos, P. Paraskevopoulou, N. Lagopati, E.A. Pavlatou

Catalysts 2023, 13, 1367

Zinc oxide (ZnO) possesses exceptional potential to be utilized in water and wastewater treatment applications, either as a photocatalyst or in membrane incorporation. In the present study, ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized using the precipitation method. The Taguchi approach with the L_32b orthogonal array was utilized in order to optimize the experimental conditions for the synthesis of the nanoparticles and to ensure that relatively smaller-sized particles were obtained. The design was characterized by ten factors, where nine of them possessed four levels, while one had two levels. This study’s design factors were the type of Zn precursor, the concentration of the Zn precursor, the type of precipitating agent, the precipitation agent’s concentration, the type of utilized solvent, the pH value of the solvent, the temperature used during the synthetic procedure, the calcination temperature, the time of stirring during synthesis, as well as the stirring speed. The influences of those factors on the selected response parameters (the average crystallite size, degree of crystallinity, energy band gap (E_g), and photodegradation constant (k)) were then evaluated. XRD analysis and the calculated E_g values indicated that the hexagonal wurtzite structure was the only crystalline phase present in the produced samples. The photocatalytic efficiency of all ZnO nanoparticles was examined in the degradation of rhodamine B under UV light irradiation. The optimal conditions were achieved using zinc acetate dihydrate as the Zn precursor at a concentration equal to 0.3 M, sodium hydroxide as the precipitating agent (1.5 M), methanol as the solvent (the pH value of the solvent was equal to 13), a temperature during the synthetic procedure of 70 °C, 600 °C as calcination temperature, a 90 min stirring time, and 700 rpm as the stirring speed. The optimized ZnO sample was synthesized based on the aforementioned conditions and thoroughly characterized. The acquired results confirmed the prediction of the Taguchi approach, and the most enhanced k-value was observed.

doi: 10.3390/catal13101367

N. Lagopati, N. Pippa, M.-A. Gatou, N. Papadopoulou-Fermeli, V.G. Gorgoulis, M. Gazouli, E.A. Pavlatou

Applied Sciences 2023, 13, 9172

Aquatic habitats cover almost 70 % of the Earth, containing several species contributing to marine biodiversity. Marine and aquatic organisms are rich in chemical compounds that can be widely used in biomedicine (dentistry, pharmacy, cosmetology, etc.) as alternative raw biomaterials or in food supplements. Their structural characteristics make them promising candidates for tissue engineering approaches in regenerative medicine. Thus, seaweeds, marine sponges, arthropods, cnidaria, mollusks, and the biomaterials provided by them, such as alginate, vitamins, laminarin, collagen, chitin, chitosan, gelatin, hydroxyapatite, biosilica, etc., are going to be discussed focusing on the biomedical applications of these marine-originated biomaterials. The ultimate goal is to highlight the sustainability of the use of these biomaterials instead of conventional ones, mainly due to the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and anticancer effect.

doi: 10.3390/app13169172

Μ.-Α. Gatou, Ι.-Α. Vagena, Ν. Pippa, Μ. Gazouli, Ε.Α. Pavlatou, Ν. Lagopati

Crystals 2023, 13, 1236

This review study aims to present, in a condensed manner, the significance of the use of crystalline carbon-based nanomaterials in biomedical applications. Crystalline carbon-based nanomaterials, encompassing graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes, and graphene quantum dots, have emerged as promising materials for the development of medical devices in various biomedical applications. These materials possess inorganic semiconducting attributes combined with organic π-π stacking features, allowing them to efficiently interact with biomolecules and present enhanced light responses. By harnessing these unique properties, carbon-based nanomaterials offer promising opportunities for future advancements in biomedicine. Recent studies have focused on the development of these nanomaterials for targeted drug delivery, cancer treatment, and biosensors. The conjugation and modification of carbon-based nanomaterials have led to significant advancements in a plethora of therapies and have addressed limitations in preclinical biomedical applications. Furthermore, the wide-ranging therapeutic advantages of carbon nanotubes have been thoroughly examined in the context of biomedical applications.

doi: 10.3390/cryst13081236

M.-A. Gatou, I.-A. Vagena, N. Lagopati, N. Pippa, M. Gazouli, E.A. Pavlatou

Nanomaterials 2023, 13, 2224

Over the last ten years, there has been a growing interest in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), which are a unique category of porous materials that combine organic and inorganic components. MOFs have garnered significant attention due to their highly favorable characteristics, such as environmentally friendly nature, enhanced surface area and pore volume, hierarchical arrangements, and adjustable properties, as well as their versatile applications in fields such as chemical engineering, materials science, and the environmental and biomedical sectors. This article centers on examining the advancements in using MOFs for environmental remediation purposes. Additionally, it discusses the latest developments in employing MOFs as potential tools for disease diagnosis and drug delivery across various ailments, including cancer, diabetes, neurological disorders, and ocular diseases. Firstly, a concise overview of MOF evolution and the synthetic techniques employed for creating MOFs are provided, presenting their advantages and limitations. Subsequently, the challenges, potential avenues, and perspectives for future advancements in the utilization of MOFs in the respective application domains are addressed. Lastly, a comprehensive comparison of the materials presently employed in these applications is conducted.

doi: 10.3390/nano13152224 

M.-A. Gatou, E. Fiorentis, N. Lagopati, E.A. Pavlatou

Water 2023, 15, 2773

Organic pollutants found in industrial effluents contribute to significant environmental risks. Degradation of these pollutants, particularly through photocatalysis, is a promising strategy ensuring water purification and supporting wastewater treatment. Thus, photodegradation of rhodamine B and phenol under visible-light irradiation using TiO₂/SiO₂ composite nanoparticles was within the main scopes of this study. The nanocomposite was synthesized through a wet impregnation method using TiO₂ and SiO₂ nanopowders previously prepared via a facile sol–gel approach and was fully characterized. The obtained results indicated a pure anatase phase, coupled with increased crystallinity (85.22 %) and a relative smaller crystallite size (1.82 nm) in relation to pure TiO₂ and SiO₂ and an enhanced specific surface area (50 m²/g) and a reduced energy band gap (3.18 eV). Photodegradation of rhodamine B upon visible-light irradiation was studied, showing that the TiO₂/SiO₂ composite reached total (100 %) degradation within 210 min compared to pure TiO₂ and SiO₂ analogues, which achieved a ≈45 % and ≈43 % degradation rate, respectively. Similarly, the composite catalyst presented enhanced photocatalytic performance under the same irradiation conditions towards the degradation of phenol, leading to 43.19 % degradation within 210 min and verifying the composite catalyst’s selectivity towards degradation of rhodamine B dye as well as its enhanced photocatalytic efficiency towards both organic compounds compared to pure TiO₂ and SiO₂. Additionally, based on the acquired experimental results, ●O²⁻, h⁺ and e⁻ were found to be the major reactive oxygen species involved in rhodamine B’s photocatalytic degradation, while ●OH radicals were pivotal in the photodegradation of phenol under visible irradiation. Finally, after the TiO₂/SiO₂ composite catalyst was reused five times, it indicated negligible photodegradation efficiency decrease towards both organic compounds.

doi: 10.3390/w15152773

E. Galata, C.M. Veziri, G.V. Theodorakopoulos, G.E. Romanos, E.A. Pavlatou

Membranes 2023, 13, 627

The adhesion enhancement of a graphene oxide (GO) layer on porous ceramic substrates is a crucial step towards developing a high-performance membrane for many applications. In this work, we have achieved the chemical anchoring of GO layers on custom-made macroporous disks, fabricated in the lab by pressing α-Al₂O₃ powder. To this end, three different linkers, polydopamine (PDA), 3-Glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTMS) and (3-Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTMS), were elaborated for their capacity to tightly bind the GO laminate on the ceramic membrane surface. The same procedure was replicated on cylindrical porous commercial ZrO₂ substrates because of their potentiality for applications on a large scale. The gas permeance properties of the membranes were studied using helium at 25°C as a probe molecule and further scrutinized in conjunction with water permeance results. Measurements with helium at 25°C were chosen to avoid gas adsorption and surface diffusion mechanisms. This approach allowed us to draw conclusions on the deposition morphology of the GO sheets on the ceramic support, the mode of chemical bonding with the linker and the stability of the deposited GO laminate. Specifically, considering that He permeance is mostly affected by the pore structural characteristics, an estimation was initially made of the relative change in the pore size of the developed membranes compared to the bare substrate. This was achieved by interpreting the results via the Knudsen equation, which describes the gas permeance as being analogous to the third power of the pore radius. Subsequently, the calculated relative change in the pore size was inserted into the Hagen–Poiseuille equation to predict the respective water permeance ratio of the GO membranes to the bare substrate. The reason that the experimental water permeance values may deviate from the predicted ones is related to the different surface chemistry, i.e., the hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity that the composite membranes acquire after the chemical modification. Various characterization techniques were applied to study the morphological and physicochemical properties of the materials, like FESEM, XRD, DLS and Contact Angle.

doi: 10.3390/membranes13070627

E. Fiorentis, M.-A. Gatou, N. Lagopati, E.A. Pavlatou

Biomedical Journal of Scientific and Technical Research 2023, 15 (1), 42382

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) are widely utilized in various industries, such as food, synthetic processes, medical diagnosis and drug delivery, owing to their adjustable particle size, extensive surface area and excellent biocompatibility. Numerous studies have explored the biomedical applications of SiNPs, including the customization of their surfaces and structures to target different types of cancers and facilitate disease diagnosis. This mini review encompasses recent research on the biomedical applications of SiNPs, incorporating fundamental discoveries and ongoing exploratory advancements of their research, and particularly their implementation in drug delivery systems for the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases within the human body, holding potential for practical developments in the future.

doi: 10.26717/BJSTR.2023.51.008057

N. Lagopati, Th.-F. Valamvanos, V. Proutsou, K. Karachalios, N. Pippa, M.-A. Gatou, I.-A. Vagena, S. Cela, E.A. Pavlatou, M. Gazouli, E. Efstathopoulos

Chemosensors 2023, 11(6), 317

Early-stage, precise disease diagnosis and treatment has been a crucial topic of scientific discussion since time immemorial. When these factors are combined with experience and scientific knowledge, they can benefit not only the patient, but also, by extension, the entire health system. The development of rapidly growing novel technologies allows for accurate diagnosis and treatment of disease. Nanomedicine can contribute to exhaled breath analysis (EBA) for disease diagnosis, providing nanomaterials and improving sensing performance and detection sensitivity. Through EBA, gas-based nano-sensors might be applied for the detection of various essential diseases, since some of their metabolic products are detectable and measurable in the exhaled breath. The design and development of innovative nanomaterial-based sensor devices for the detection of specific biomarkers in breath samples has emerged as a promising research field for the non-invasive accurate diagnosis of several diseases. EBA would be an inexpensive and widely available commercial tool that could also be used as a disease self-test kit. Thus, it could guide patients to the proper specialty, bypassing those expensive tests, resulting, hence, in earlier diagnosis, treatment, and thus a better quality of life. In this review, some of the most prevalent types of sensors used in breath-sample analysis are presented in parallel with the common diseases that might be diagnosed through EBA, highlighting the impact of incorporating new technological achievements in the clinical routine.

doi: 10.3390/chemosensors11060317